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Media OutReach

Octa market outlook: navigating one of the most eventful weeks of the year

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2025 – Forex traders are bracing for what could be one of the most pivotal trading weeks of the year. The calendar is packed with high-impact releases that could send shockwaves through the markets, potentially even temporarily halting trading altogether as global economies digest a barrage of critical data. From central bank decisions to blockbuster economic reports, this week is shaping up to be a rollercoaster for volatility, and traders need to be on high alert. Octa Broker is providing an in-depth overview of the week’s key events and actionable insights to help traders navigate this high-stakes environment with confidence. A packed calendar: why this week stands out ‘This is one of the busiest weeks I’ve seen in my career,’ says Kar Yong, financial market analyst at Octa Broker. ‘I’ve been in the markets for a long time, and I can genuinely say I’ve rarely witnessed such a major concentration of important events packed into a single week. Traders need to be exceptionally vigilant and prepared for rapid shifts.’ Indeed, this will be a rather heavy week with a massive amount of event risk. It features the crucial U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report, decisions from three major G7 central banks, including the Federal Reserve (Fed), several key inflation reports, and, arguably the most volatility-inducing event in the Forex calendar, the Nonfarm Payroll (NFP) report. Adding to this potent mix, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will release its World Economic Outlook on Tuesday, offering a global economic snapshot, while the looming 1 August deadline for U.S. reciprocal tariffs adds a geopolitical wildcard. Furthermore, some of the world’s biggest companies will be reporting their quarterly earnings, particularly Microsoft, Apple, Meta, Amazon, Visa, Mastercard, Procter&Gamble, Hermes, HSBC, Exxon Mobil, and Chevron. While it’s not unusual for some weeks to carry more weight than others, the upcoming slate of events is exceptional in both volume and significance and suggests a truly historic period for the financial markets. Here’s a list of some of the major news releases to keep an eye on: Tuesday, 29 July World IMF World Economic Outlook United States Trade Balance United States JOLTS Job Openings United States CB Consumer Confidence United States Earnings: Visa United States Earnings: P&G Wednesday, 30 July Australia Inflation Rate (CPI) Eurozone GDP United States ADP Employment United States GDP Canada BoC Interest Rate Decision United States Fed interest Rate Decision United States Earnings: Microsoft United States Earnings: Meta United States Earnings: Hermes United States Earnings: HSBC Thursday, 31 July China NBS Manufacturing and Services PMI Japan BoJ Interest Rate Decision Germany Inflation Rate (CPI) Canada GDP United States PCE Price Index United States Earnings: Apple United States Earnings: Amazon United States Earnings: Mastercard Friday, 1 August World U.S. reciprocal tariffs to go into effect Eurozone Inflation Rate (CPI) United States NFP United States ISM Manufacturing PMI United States Earnings: Exxon Mobil United States Earnings: Chevron As you can see, this is an extremely long list that features some heavyweights. In terms of the top scheduled events, we need to pick and choose what is going to carry the greatest influence. From a global macro perspective, the primary focus is still likely to remain firmly on the ongoing tariff developments. Kar Yong comments: ‘Although the U.S. has recently inked new trade deals with several countries, notably the United Kingdom, Japan, and the Eurozone, the 1 August deadline still looms large for other nations. There remains considerable uncertainty surrounding potential trade resolutions with key economies such as Mexico, Canada, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Brazil, and Singapore, among others. Any headlines or official statements regarding these negotiations could trigger significant market reactions.‘ This tariff tension could weigh heavily on currency pairs like USD/BRL, USD/CNY, and USD/CAD, as markets react to both policy announcements and speculative headlines. Traders should monitor news wires closely, as any breakthroughs—or breakdowns—in trade talks could trigger sharp moves. Beyond tariffs, the week’s economic calendar is brimming with catalysts: U.S. GDP and Nonfarm Payrolls. The Q2 GDP report on Wednesday will provide a snapshot of U.S. economic health, while Friday’s NFP report could sway expectations for Fed policy. Strong data could bolster the USD, while weaker prints might fuel rate-cut speculation. Central Bank Decisions. The Fed, BoC, and BoJ will announce their interest rate decisions, with markets expecting all three to hold steady. However, forward guidance will be critical, especially from the Fed, as traders parse comments on tariffs and inflation. Jerome Powell’s press conference will be scrutinised for any shifts in monetary policy outlook, especially given the external pressures he is facing from the White House. Inflation Reports. Australia, Germany, and the Eurozone will release Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which could influence expectations for monetary policy in those regions. The U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, will also be closely watched. Here it will be important to see if record-high inflation expectations (due to rising tariffs) are feeding into the actual CPI figures. China PMI. The NBS Manufacturing and Services PMI will offer insights into China’s economic recovery, a key driver for commodity currencies like AUD and NZD. How to trade this week: risk management is key Weeks like these demand a disciplined approach to trading. Volatility can create opportunities, but it also heightens the risk of significant losses. Here’s how Forex traders can navigate this historic week: Stick to what you know. Focus on currency pairs you’re familiar with. Understanding their historical behaviour and key levels will help you make informed decisions amid the chaos. Set stop-losses religiously. Volatility spikes can lead to rapid price swings. Always use stop-loss orders to cap potential losses, and consider tightening them during major releases like NFP or central bank announcements. Limit exposure. Avoid over-leveraging your positions. With so many events, a single unexpected headline could trigger a cascade of stop-outs. Keep position sizes modest to weather potential storms. Stay informed, but don’t chase noise. Follow reliable news

Media OutReach

“Shanghai Day” Lights Up Lincoln Center in New York – Art as a Bridge: A Transpacific Cultural Resonance

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2025 – Co-presented by Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and Center for the China Shanghai International Arts Festival, Summer for the City’s Shanghai Day ignited a cultural wave in New York City. From afternoon until late at night, a vibrant array of performances and interactive experiences—fusing classics with innovation, fashion with tradition, and youth with passion—took place across the Lincoln Center campus, drawing an estimated audience of thousands. This spectacular artistic exchange opened a vivid window for New Yorkers to experience the diverse vitality of Shanghai-style culture. Lady White Snake Premieres in the U.S., Presented by Shanghai Grand Theatre Li Ming, President of Center for the China Shanghai International Arts Festival, stated: “We are honored to bring Haipai (Shanghai-style) culture to this global stage at the invitation of Lincoln Center. Through this unique artistic celebration, we hope to showcase the charm of Shanghai and the creativity of Chinese artists to a worldwide audience.” Mariko Silver, President and CEO of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, said: “We invite New Yorkers and visitors to explore different cultures and deepen their connection to creativity from across the globe here at Lincoln Center. Today’s events are such a beautiful example of cross-cultural exchange and artistic discovery for audiences of all ages. We are so glad to be working with the Center for the China Shanghai International Arts Festival.” Shanghai Day marked a world-class presentation of Haipai culture. Innovative interpretations of traditional Chinese arts offered immersive and interactive experiences that reshaped global perceptions. Inside the David H. Koch Theater, the Shanghai Grand Theatre premiered its original dance Lady White Snake to U.S. audiences for the first time. Drawing from the Chinese solar terms for musical inspiration, the performance blended traditional Chinese instruments with Western orchestration and electronic sounds. Visually symbolic elements such as clocks and geometric forms illustrated spatial shifts and emotional depth. The performance integrated ballet, classical Chinese dance, and modern dance into a fluid cross-genre dialogue. Artistic director Tan Yuanyuan led an elite team to deliver a stunning fusion of ballet grace, flowing water sleeves, and poetic stage aesthetics inspired by Jiangnan, presenting an ancient legend in an entirely renewed form. In the lobby of the David Rubenstein Atrium, the Shanghai Animation Film Studio’s classic The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven captivated audiences with vivid colors and Chinese mythological charm. In the family zone, the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra presented Stories of Chinese Zodiac using suona, pipa, and other folk instruments, accompanied by water ink animation from Zhang Lelu that delighted children and invited them to engage with traditional instruments. As night fell, the garden transformed into a “Shanghai Cultural Pavilion.” Intangible heritage booths offered hands-on experiences: papercutting, knot buttons, calligraphy, traditional qipao, handmade cotton crafts, vegetarian treats from Longhua Temple, and dazzling cloisonné candy boxes from Lao Feng Xiang. A “Guochao Punk” Peking Opera makeup booth was particularly popular, with New Yorkers lining up for custom opera face designs. Nearby, Zi-Ka-Wei Library showcased Shanghai-themed creative products that condensed cultural meaning into modern design. At Damrosch Park, the Arknights Concert—produced in collaboration with globally renowned composers like Gareth Coker—offered an electrifying mix of electronic, folk, and symphonic sounds. Audiences were transported into immersive game worlds through high-impact musical storytelling. Meanwhile, the Dance Floor transformed into a summer dance stage. China’s new generation of dancers energized the crowd with breaking, popping, and locking. Their specially choreographed global hit Spread Your Wings sparked spontaneous dancing among the audience. Jazz trumpeter Li Xiaochuan bridged East and West with original compositions reflecting the evolving “Chinese sound.” As the evening deepened, a “Silent Disco” allowed hundreds of attendees to dance freely in isolated headphone worlds—blending erhu, pipa, and electronic bass. China’s New Generation of Dancers Electrified the Stage at Lincoln Center Throughout the event, the Lincoln Center was imbued with “Shanghai”—from the Lujiazui skyline to Yuyuan Garden silhouettes. “Today felt like being transported to the other side of the world,” said Fromm, a New Yorker who had never been to Shanghai. “Every sense—from sight and sound to taste—was immersed in a city that is both historic and modern, Eastern and global.” As the lights dimmed at Lincoln Center, the cultural resonance of “Shanghai Day” lingered. From elegant pointe work and traditional music to intangible heritage and immersive beats, this celebration became an invisible bridge connecting hearts across the Pacific. Through the power of art and culture, a moving new chapter was written in the story of U.S.-China cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Hashtag: #ShanghaiEye The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

News

Smile-Link Healthcare Reprimanded By Bursa Malaysia For Financial Reporting Breach

Kuala Lumpur,  Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad has publicly reprimanded Smile-Link Healthcare Global Berhad for breaching the LEAP Market Listing Requirements, citing a six-month delay in the release of its audited financial statements. The reprimand follows Smile-Link’s failure to announce its audited financial statements, along with the required reports and disclosures for the 18-month financial period ending 30 June 2024, by the 31 October 2024 deadline. The company only made the announcement on 30 April 2025. Bursa Malaysia emphasized that timely financial reporting is a fundamental duty of all listed companies, essential to maintaining a fair and orderly market. The breach was assessed under Rule 8.12 of the LEAP Market Listing Requirements after due process, taking into account the materiality and implications of the delay. Smile-Link’s delay stemmed from unresolved issues with its external auditors, ultimately resulting in their removal in January 2025. However, Bursa Malaysia stressed that disputes with auditors do not justify non-compliance with financial reporting obligations. In addition to the reprimand, Smile-Link’s Board of Directors has been directed to review the adequacy and competency of its finance and accounting functions and strengthen its financial reporting policies and procedures. Bursa Malaysia also reminded the company’s board of its responsibility to uphold corporate accountability and ensure timely and transparent disclosures to shareholders and the investing public.

News

MGB Partners With Doka To Advance IBS Construction Solutions

KUALA LUMPUR, MGB Berhad, the construction and property development subsidiary of LBS Bina Group Bhd, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) with Doka Formwork Malaysia Sdn Bhd to jointly develop cutting-edge engineering solutions using Industrialised Building System (IBS) precast concrete components. Doka Formwork Malaysia—a unit of global formwork and scaffolding specialist Doka GmbH—will bring its expertise in advanced formwork systems, scaffolding, engineering design, and cast-in-situ concrete support to complement MGB’s established strengths in IBS for large-scale housing projects. (L-R): MGB Bhd executive director and chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Lim Lit Chek (far left), MGB group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir. (Dr.) Lim Hock San, Robert Hauser, CEO of Doka GmbH, and Victor Wong, deputy CEO of MGB, pose for a group photo during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Collaboration between MGB and Doka Formwork Malaysia Sdn Bhd. The collaboration will focus on integrating Doka’s systems with MGB’s on-site precast concrete elements to optimise construction workflows, improve project efficiency, and enhance build quality. The partnership also aims to align technical strategies, explore new growth opportunities, and implement forward-thinking construction practices. The MoC was inked in the presence of MGB group executive chairman Tan Sri Ir. (Dr.) Lim Hock San, CEO Datuk Lim Lit Chek, Doka GmbH CEO Robert Hauser, and Doka Malaysia country manager Teh Aun Kua. Lim said the partnership with Doka not only boosts MGB’s capabilities in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, but also reinforces its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and global standards. “This collaboration will elevate our project delivery and long-term value creation for all stakeholders,” he noted. MGB added that the alliance supports its broader mission to digitise and modernise construction processes, in line with Malaysia’s push toward a greener and more efficient industry. The company’s IBS technology has already yielded reductions in material waste and improved resource management. As part of its ESG strategy, MGB is also investing in workforce upskilling—particularly in automation, design, and manufacturing—while continuing to lower its environmental impact through sustainable practices.

Energy & Technology

Amazon Closes AI Lab In Shanghai, Source Says

SHANGHAI, Amazon has shuttered its artificial intelligence research lab in Shanghai, a source familiar with the matter confirmed to AFP, marking a notable retreat amid intensifying tech rivalry between the United States and China. US tech giant Amazon has shut down its artificial intelligence research lab in Shanghai The lab, which operated under Amazon Web Services (AWS), was reportedly closed as part of a broader strategic realignment. In a WeChat post that has been widely shared on Chinese social media, lab scientist Wang Minjie attributed the move to “strategic adjustment between China and the United States.” While Amazon did not explicitly confirm the closure when contacted by AFP, AWS spokesperson Brad Glasser stated, “We’ve made the difficult business decision to eliminate some roles across particular teams in AWS. These decisions are necessary as we continue to invest, hire, and optimise resources to deliver innovation for our customers.” The dedicated AWS China webpage for the Shanghai AI lab, accessible earlier this week, had been taken offline by Friday. Archived versions show the lab was established in late 2018 with the goal of fostering collaboration with the global research community. This move follows recent job cuts at AWS—reportedly affecting hundreds—and mirrors a broader trend, as other major U.S. tech firms like Microsoft and IBM also scale back research operations in China amid escalating geopolitical and regulatory tensions.

Investment & Market Trends

MMAG Subsidiary Acquires Boeing Freighter For RM109.18 Million From GASL Ireland

KUALA LUMPUR, MMAG Holdings Bhd’s Labuan-based indirect subsidiary, MMAG SkyAssets, has entered into an agreement to purchase a Boeing 737-800 converted freighter for US$25.9 million (approximately RM109.18 million) from GASL Ireland Leasing A-1, a special-purpose vehicle managed by Genesis Aircraft Services Ltd. MMAG Holdings Bhd’s Labuan-based indirect unit MMAG SkyAssets has signed an agreement to buy a Boeing 737-800 converted freighter for US$25.9 million (about RM109.18 million). The aircraft is currently leased and operating under MMAG Aviation Consortium Sdn Bhd’s MJets Air. Upon completion of the deal, it will become MMAG’s third owned freighter, bringing the group’s total fleet to seven, including four leased aircraft. This marks the group’s third aircraft acquisition, following two previous purchases from JPA No.161 Co Ltd in December 2024 and January 2025. The move aligns with MMAG’s long-term strategy to increase asset ownership and reduce reliance on leased equipment. MMAG Aviation chairman Woo Kam Weng said the acquisition reflects the company’s goal of becoming a fully empowered aviation operator. “With stronger asset control, we can better adapt to market demands, optimise fleet usage, and unlock new revenue opportunities. It’s a strategic step towards long-term sustainability in a competitive logistics environment,” he said. The acquisition, subject to shareholder approval, will be financed through a structured payment plan over 14 months, ending with a final settlement upon transfer of ownership. MMAG said this phased approach ensures sound cash flow management while securing long-term operational value. Built in 2005, the newly acquired freighter is significantly newer than the group’s previous aircraft purchases, which were over 30 years old. The younger aircraft is expected to enhance fleet reliability, improve efficiency, and offer greater residual value. The growing number of owned freighters underlines MMAG’s broader plan to internalise its fleet infrastructure, reduce dependence on third-party lessors, and reinforce financial resilience through asset ownership.

Media OutReach

Chubb Life Hong Kong Becomes Title Sponsor of Ultimate Tennis Showdown’s Asia Debut

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2025 – Chubb Life Hong Kong (Chubb Life HK) is proud to announce its title sponsorship of the Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) in its Asia debut. UTS is an innovative tennis league founded in 2020 that blends high-octane competition with entertainment. Featuring eight top-ranked players, the event incorporates simplified scoring, adapted rules and live DJs and coaching, creating an electrifying, fan-friendly spectacle. (From left) Mr. Oscar Chow, Honourary Secretary of the HKCTA and Chairman of Hong Kong Tennis Open Steering Committee; Mrs. Belinda Au, President of Chubb Life Hong Kong and Head of North Asia; Mr. Michael Cheng, President of the HKCTA; UTS player Mr. Zhang Zhizhen; Mr. Baptiste Kern, UTS Chief Operating Officer The Chubb UTS Hong Kong 2025 will be held at the Kai Tak Arena of Kai Tak Sports Park from October 14 to 15, 2025, underscoring Hong Kong’s status as an emerging sports hub, and Chubb Life Hong Kong’s commitment to bringing inspiring sporting experiences to the community. Belinda Au, President of Chubb Life Hong Kong and Head of North Asia, said, “We are proud to support the debut of the Ultimate Tennis Showdown in Asia, a partnership that extends our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class experiences that inspire and engage our local communities. The dynamic and innovative format of the UTS aligns with our mission at Chubb Life Hong Kong to provide forward-thinking solutions, making life insurance more accessible and relevant to our customers.” As title sponsor, Chubb Life HK will offer exclusive experiences, including VIP tickets to the UTS All-Star Game, on-court private tennis clinics with star players, access to the Chubb Life Lounge and limited-edition merchandise, all exclusively for Chubb’s community. This sponsorship also reinforces Chubb Life HK’s ongoing support for tennis in Hong Kong, demonstrated by its partnership with local tennis star Coleman Wong since 2023. Chubb Life HK will also launch an interactive game on its social media platforms, offering fans the chance to win event tickets and exclusive UTS prizes. Follow Chubb Life Hong Kong on Facebook (Chubb Life Hong Kong) and Instagram (@chubblifehk) for updates on the UTS and a chance to win free tickets! Hashtag: #Chubb The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Chubb Chubb is a world leader in insurance. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. The company is defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb employs approximately 43,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: www.chubb.com.

Investment & Market Trends

CK Hutchison Seeks Chinese Partner To Join Bidding For Its US$22.8 Billion Ports Unit

HONG KONG, CK Hutchison announced on Monday it is in discussions to include a major Chinese strategic investor in the consortium bidding for its global ports business, valued at US$22.8 billion. The move comes after Beijing raised regulatory concerns over the transaction amid ongoing geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. CK Hutchison said on Monday it wants a major Chinese strategic investor to join the BlackRock-led consortium bidding for its US$22.8 billion ports business. The Hong Kong-based conglomerate made the statement following the expiry of its exclusive negotiation period with the bidding consortium, which is led by U.S. asset manager BlackRock and MSC, the family-run shipping giant owned by Italian billionaire Gianluigi Aponte. The proposed deal covers 43 port assets across 23 countries, including two strategically sensitive ports located along the Panama Canal. China COSCO Shipping Corp is reportedly looking to join the consortium, according to a source familiar with the matter. CK Hutchison indicated that revisions to the consortium’s structure and transaction terms may be necessary to meet regulatory requirements and said it would allow additional time to ensure full compliance. “The company has consistently maintained that it will not proceed with any transaction without approval from all relevant authorities,” CK Hutchison said in a filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The end of the exclusivity period now opens the door for potential bids from other interested parties, according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation. Shares of CK Hutchison rose 1.6% on Monday, outperforming the broader Hang Seng Index, which gained 0.9%. The deal has stirred geopolitical tensions, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly called for a return of U.S. influence over the Panama Canal and labeled the proposed acquisition as a means of “reclaiming” control. His administration previously criticized Chinese ownership of strategic ports in the region. China’s market regulator, the State Administration for Market Regulation, said it will evaluate the deal in accordance with domestic laws to ensure fair competition and protect public interest. State-backed Chinese media, echoing Beijing’s position, criticized the original deal structure and suggested Chinese involvement was essential due to national interests. CK Hutchison emphasized that any new investor must hold a “significant” stake within the consortium. Analysts remain cautious. “A Chinese investor with majority control is likely to raise concerns, but a stake below 50% might satisfy both sides,” said David Blennerhassett of Ballingal Investment Advisors. JPMorgan, in a client note, said that including COSCO could help ease Beijing’s concerns and improve chances of regulatory clearance. However, it also warned that not all 43 ports—especially the Panama assets—may be included in the final deal, and the composition of the buyer group could shift, potentially impacting the final valuation.

Property

Sunway REIT Finalises Acquisition Of AEON Mall Seri Manjung In Perak

KUALA LUMPUR, Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust (Sunway REIT), through its manager Sunway REIT Management Sdn Bhd, has completed the acquisition of AEON Mall Seri Manjung in Perak. Sunway REIT Management Sdn Bhd said Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust (Sunway REIT) has completed the acquisition of Sunway Seri Manjung Mall, formerly known as AEON Mall Seri Manjung. In a statement today, Sunway REIT said the newly acquired asset is a two-storey retail complex situated on 12.24 hectares (30.25 acres) of prime freehold commercial land, featuring ample parking facilities. The mall is fully tenanted by AEON Co (M) Bhd under a long-term lease agreement, which offers income certainty with 12 years remaining until December 2037. Sunway REIT said the property is expected to be yield-accretive, providing an initial net property income (NPI) yield of 6.5%, with an average yield of 7% projected over the remaining lease term. Ng Bee Lien, Sunway REIT’s acting chief executive officer and chief financial officer, said the acquisition is part of the trust’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its portfolio with high-quality, income-generating assets. “AEON Mall Seri Manjung offers immediate earnings contribution through a stable, long-term lease with a leading retail operator and enhances the resilience of our earnings with an attractive yield profile,” she said. Ng added that the acquisition reinforces Sunway REIT’s position as one of the country’s leading real estate investment trusts and reflects its proactive approach to securing assets with strong fundamentals and long-term income visibility. “We remain committed to identifying similar opportunities that enhance our portfolio quality and support our long-term growth strategy,” she said.

Media OutReach

Standard Chartered partners with Know Your Customer Limited to enhance the onboarding process for SME clients and boost financing efficiency

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2025 – Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (“Standard Chartered Hong Kong”) and Know Your Customer Limited (“Know Your Customer”) announce the launch of a new collaboration on real-time know-your-customer (KYC) verifications via the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA)-led Commercial Data Interchange (“CDI”) platform. The partnership will enhance SME account opening and KYC procedures with improved accuracy, speed, and security. Stephen Man, Head of Wealth Management and Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Hong Kong (right), and Claus Christensen, CEO & Co-Founder of Know Your Customer (left) participate in the HKMA Data Summit 2025 held today. They showcase Standard Chartered and Know Your Customer’s active involvement in CDI at a dedicated exhibition booth, presenting their achievements to over a thousand attendees. By leveraging Know Your Customer’s capabilities, Standard Chartered Hong Kong can automate the retrieval of company search data via the application programming interface (API) included in CDI and unravel complex ultimate beneficial owner (UBO) structures to identify the true owners of corporate entities and improve risk assessment accuracy. This solution allows the bank to retrieve information required for account opening by automating data feeds from Know Your Customer and empowers the bank to consolidate company search data via CDI, which significantly streamlines the account opening journey, reduces the application turnaround time and drives substantial operational efficiency gains. Stephen Man, Head of Wealth Management and Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Hong Kong, said, “The partnership with Know Your Customer is beneficial to the digital transformation and business development of Standard Chartered Hong Kong’s SME clients. As an active CDI participant we are simplifying SMEs’ loan applications and reviews. This new initiative demonstrates our commitment to offering innovative banking solutions that facilitate better client experiences. By automating KYC via Know Your Customer, we’re speeding up SME account opening and enabling non-face-to-face account applications anytime, anywhere. By leveraging alternative data through CDI and pursuing opportunities to collaborate with data partners, we can offer SMEs tailored loan solutions, helping them to enhance their operational efficiency and facilitate growth. This also contributes to the development of Hong Kong’s digital economy.” Claus Christensen, CEO & Co-Founder at Know Your Customer, said, “When we founded Know Your Customer in Hong Kong almost a decade ago, I experienced first-hand the challenges that SMEs faced when trying to access financial services protected by manual compliance processes. That personal experience continues to inspire our mission to remove unnecessary friction from onboarding. Through real-time registry integrations and intelligent automation, we are helping to make financial access faster, safer, and more inclusive. I’m proud that our technology plays a part in empowering future entrepreneurs and excited to collaborate with Standard Chartered Hong Kong to support the HKMA’s digitalisation agenda.” Hashtag: #StandardChartered #KnowYourCustomer The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Standard Chartered We are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good. Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges. The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC. For more stories and expert opinions, please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook. About Know Your Customer Limited Know Your Customer Limited is an award-winning RegTech company specialised in next-generation business verification solutions for financial institutions and regulated organisations worldwide. For teams struggling with inefficient client due diligence and onboarding processes, Know Your Customer offers an intuitive digital compliance workspace that combines unmatched real-time registry data, covering over 140 countries, seamless integrations, and AI-powered smart automation. This streamlined approach transforms the compliance function at its core, allowing clients to customise their solutions by selecting only the functionalities they need, all accessible via a robust REST API. Founded in Hong Kong in 2015, with a local presence in Singapore, Dublin, London, and Shanghai, Know Your Customer has built a global customer base across 11 verticals and 18 jurisdictions. The company also maintains a wide network of technology and data partners, ensuring high-quality entity data and enhanced compliance processes for its clients. For more information visit https://knowyourcustomer.com or follow Know Your Customer Limited on LinkedIn or X.

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