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Investment & Market Trends

SK Hynix Q2 Net Income Up 69.8% To 6.99 Trillion Won

SEOUL, SK hynix posted a robust net profit of 6.99 trillion won (approximately US$5.1 billion) for the second quarter of 2025, representing a 69.8% increase from the same period last year, driven by strong demand for memory chips amid the AI boom. In a regulatory filing on Thursday, the South Korean chipmaker also reported an operating profit of 9.21 trillion won for the April–June period, up 68.5% year-on-year. Revenue rose 35.4% to 22.23 trillion won, reflecting continued growth in the semiconductor sector. Despite the strong year-on-year gains, the company’s net profit came in slightly below market expectations. Analysts surveyed by Yonhap Infomax, the financial data service of Yonhap News Agency, had forecast an average net profit of 7.16 trillion won. The results underscore SK hynix’s ongoing recovery following a prolonged industry downturn and highlight its position as a key beneficiary of rising AI infrastructure investment. However, the earnings miss suggests that market expectations are high as competition intensifies and global economic uncertainties persist. SK hynix, the world’s second-largest memory chipmaker, has seen growing demand for its high-performance DRAM and NAND products, particularly those used in data centers and AI applications. The company said it will continue to focus on advanced memory technologies to sustain momentum in the second half of the year.

Media OutReach

ONYX Hospitality Group Reinforces Long-Term Commitment to Key Market Japan Through Targeted Development Strategy

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2025 – ONYX Hospitality Group, the prominent management company in Southeast Asia specialising in hotels and resorts, serviced apartments and luxury residences, is reinforcing its long-term commitment to Japan as a key strategic market through a targeted development initiative. As part of its broader vision for growth in Northeast Asia, ONYX will embark on a focused Japan Sales Mission from 29th September to 3rd October 2025, aimed at strengthening trade partnerships and laying the groundwork for future growth in the region. Amari Pattaya This initiative centres on one-on-one meetings with key partners, reflecting ONYX’s strategic focus on consultative engagement and its dedication to cultivating long-term, mutually beneficial relationships within the Japanese travel trade. “Japan is a market that rewards consistency, depth, and cultural alignment,” said Mr Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group. “Success here relies on strong, ongoing partnerships with travel agents and tour operators, and we are fully committed to nurturing these relationships. This sales mission is a key part of our long-term strategy to tailor our offerings to the evolving needs of Japanese travellers and steadily grow our presence through thoughtful, partner-led development.” The sales mission and partner engagements will focus on showcasing ONYX’s key properties in Thailand, highlighting the Group’s strong presence in a region highly appealing to Japanese tourists. Thailand remains a top destination for medical and wellness tourism, golf travel, as well as long-stay and retirement segments – niches that are especially popular among Japanese travellers. ONYX Hospitality Group is uniquely positioned to cater to these markets through its diversified portfolio across key Thai destinations. Bangkok and Phuket consistently rank among the top preferred destinations for Japanese travellers, creating exciting opportunities for several of ONYX’s flagship properties across its Amari, OZO, and Shama brands. Properties that are already well-regarded by Japanese travellers include Amari Bangkok, Amari Phuket, Amari Pattaya, OZO North Pattaya, and Shama Lakeview Asoke Bangkok. This diverse portfolio reflects the varied preferences of the Japanese market, ranging from the warm hospitality and comprehensive services of Amari, the contemporary appeal of OZO, to the spacious serviced apartments offered by Shama. Beyond well-known destinations, there is growing interest among Japanese travellers in emerging areas such as Chonburi Province, located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast and home to popular beach towns like Bangsaen and Pattaya. This opens further potential for properties such as Amari Pattaya, OZO North Pattaya, and the newly opened Amari Bangsaen, located approximately 85 kilometres southeast of Bangkok and close to Pattaya. Similarly, Khao Lak, in Phang Nga Province north of Phuket, represents a promising market for Amari Vogue Krabi, located nearby in Krabi Province. This reflects rising interest in secondary Thai destinations. The upcoming activities in Japan aim to further strengthen the profile of ONYX’s established key properties while also exploring opportunities to tailor offerings at emerging destinations, meeting the evolving needs of the Japanese market and deepening engagement with the travel trade. Further enhancing ONYX’s strong portfolio and proactive efforts, robust air connectivity between Thailand and Japan – including direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka – enhances travel convenience, supporting frequent visits by both leisure and business travellers, as well as long-stay visitors. As part of ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategic growth, the upcoming Japan sales mission will highlight properties under the newly established ONYX Hospitality Real Estate Investment Trust (ONYXRT). This REIT was set up through a filing with Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission and initially includes four high-performing leasehold properties: Amari Bangkok, Amari Pattaya, OZO Pattaya, and OZO Phuket – all demonstrating strong average occupancy rates above 80%. Featuring ONYXRT properties in the Japan sales mission underlines the Group’s integrated approach, combining operational excellence with asset optimisation to maximise value across its portfolio. The sales mission reinforces ONYX Hospitality Group’s long-term commitment to the Japanese market by strengthening strategic relationships with leading wholesalers, OTAs, and retail agencies. It will highlight ONYX’s commitment to aligning its offerings with the evolving preferences of Japanese travellers, while gathering valuable market insights to inform future product and marketing development. By maintaining a consistent and engaged presence, ONYX aims to secure sustainable growth and deepen its footprint in this important market over the years to come. For more information on ONYX Hospitality Group please visit: www.onyx-hospitality.com Hashtag: #ONYX The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

PRCA Thailand Conference 2025 to Explore “AI: Truth, Trust and Thailand”

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2025 – As artificial intelligence redefines how stories are told, trust is built, and reputations are managed, PRCA Thailand is calling on communicators, business leaders, and curious minds to join a first-of-its-kind national conversation. The inaugural PRCA Thailand Conference will take place on 6th August 2025 at SCBx NEXT Tech, Siam Paragon, under the theme “AI: Truth, Trust and Thailand.” This bilingual, half-day event offers a rare opportunity to hear from Thailand’s top PR, tech, and business leaders as they unpack what AI means for the future of communication. From deepfakes and data ethics to real-world PR case studies and insights into Thai public opinion, the conference will equip attendees with fresh perspectives, practical tools, and expert guidance for navigating the AI era with clarity and integrity. At the heart of the programme is the launch of a new PRCA APAC x YouGov study, revealing how AI is already influencing trust, media, and behaviour in Thailand. The findings will be presented by Wiwat (Alee) Khamsawai and Krishkanok (Kayla) Nima of Vero. Following this, a special fireside chat will feature Media OutReach Newswire, Founder and CEO Jennifer Kok and Dr. Karine Lohitnavy, Chair of PRCA Thailand and Founder of Midas PR. As the event’s Gold Sponsor, Media OutReach Newswire will lead the discussion titled ‘Viva La Press Release! Old Format, New Tech.’ This dynamic session will explore how digital transformation is breathing new life into the traditional press release, expanding its reach, deepening its impact, and redefining its role in today’s AI-powered communications landscape. Speaker Narongyod Mahittivanicha, Founder of TWF Agency and Vice President of the Artificial Intelligence Association of Thailand, will explore how AI is transforming PR strategy at every level, from content to crisis management. Dynamic panel sessions will follow, featuring leaders from Xponential Co, Microsoft Thailand, SCBx, and Predictive, with moderation by respected industry voices including Edelman Thailand‘s Vorasit Turongsomboon and digital creator Tossapol Leongsuppon. Dr. Karine Lohitnavy, Chair of PRCA Thailand and Founder of Midas PR, commented: “This conference comes at a pivotal moment for the communications industry in Thailand. AI is rapidly influencing how people perceive truth, build trust, and engage with information. Through data, discussion, and thought leadership, this event will help PR professionals, decision-makers and those on the front lines of communications, in all its forms, to better understand and respond to these shifts.” Conference Details: Date: 6 August 2025 Time: 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM Venue: SCBx NEXT Tech, Siam Paragon, Bangkok The PRCA Thailand Conference 2025 highlights PRCA Thailand’s commitment to promoting ethical, innovative, and locally relevant communications practices in Thailand, as well as fostering dialogue on emerging technologies that are shaping the future of the industry. For more information and tickets, visit: https://prca-conference.org/thailand-conference-2025 Hashtag: #PRCA The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About PRCA The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) is the world’s largest professional PR body. We represent more than 35,000 PR professionals in 82 countries worldwide, and we are a global advocate for excellence in public relations. PRCA APAC was founded in 2018 to further our growth across the APAC region. Our mission is to create a more professional, ethical and prosperous PR industry. PRCA Thailand is building a community for PR and communications pros to level up. Through expert training and exclusive events, it helps boost skills and deliver real results. By connecting professionals and raising industry standards, PRCA Thailand is shaping the future of communications. It fuels collaboration and ensures PR’s voice is heard loud and clear across Thailand’s economy.

Property

PHB Expands Industrial Portfolio With RM247 Million Acquisitions In Kedah And Johor

KUALA LUMPUR – Pelaburan Hartanah Bhd (PHB), an investment holding company under Yayasan Pelaburan Bumiputera, has expanded its industrial portfolio with the acquisition of two prime properties in Kedah and Johor, valued at approximately RM247 million. The first asset, located in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, was acquired from Kulim Technology Park Corporation. Spanning 0.809 hectares, it comprises three industrial buildings—a four-storey main facility, a single-storey warehouse, and a production area—all fully leased to Schott Glass, a global leader in glass and materials technology. PHB Group Managing Director and CEO Mohamad Damshal Awang Damit The second property, purchased from Rancak Beta Sdn Bhd, is situated within the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, a major logistics hub in southern Malaysia. Covering 3.804 hectares, it features a single-storey warehouse that is fully tenanted by global logistics giant Maersk. In a statement, PHB Group Managing Director and CEO Mohamad Damshal Awang Damit described the acquisitions as high-performing assets located in strategic economic zones beyond the Klang Valley, offering long-term lease security and reputable tenants. “With demand for quality industrial and logistics properties on the rise, PHB remains committed to expanding into high-growth industrial corridors to optimise long-term returns and deliver sustainable value to unitholders of Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera,” he said. He added that the acquisitions are aligned with PHB’s strategy to enhance portfolio yield, rebalance sector exposure, and ensure steady, long-term revenue generation. PHB noted that the new assets form part of its broader roadmap to diversify its real estate holdings and strengthen its position in the industrial sector. With the latest additions, industrial properties now make up around 10% of PHB’s total investment portfolio.

Energy & Technology

Microsoft Launches First AI R&D Lab In Southeast Asia With New Facility In Singapore

Microsoft Research Asia has launched its first research lab in Southeast Asia, setting up operations in Singapore to drive cutting-edge advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The new facility aims to foster an AI-driven ecosystem through industry collaboration, talent development, and solutions addressing real-world societal challenges. At the launch event, Peter Lee, President of Microsoft Research, described Microsoft Research Asia as not just a hub for talent and foundational research, but as “a bridge—between theory and practice, East and West, academia and industry, and between Singapore and Microsoft.” Lidong Zhou, Corporate Vice President and Managing Director of Microsoft Research Asia, added that by partnering closely with Singapore’s innovation ecosystem, the lab seeks to accelerate scientific progress and create impactful AI technologies for industries and individuals alike. The Singapore lab will focus on applying AI across key sectors such as healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, transport and logistics, and sustainability. In healthcare, the lab has already initiated a partnership with SingHealth to develop AI tools for personalised diagnostics and treatment planning. Professor Ng Wai Hoe, Group CEO of SingHealth, explained that the collaboration aims to enhance pathology research by integrating AI-powered image analysis with patient data, allowing for more accurate outcome predictions and personalised treatment—starting with colorectal cancer and potentially expanding to other diseases. This effort will build on Microsoft Research Asia’s multimodal biomedical foundation model and leverage SingHealth’s high-resolution pathology data to continuously enhance AI capabilities. The lab’s mission also aligns with Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0, which seeks to unlock the transformative potential of AI in key national sectors. Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science & Technology at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, welcomed the lab’s launch, expressing hope that Microsoft’s presence will inspire more companies to embrace AI for economic and societal advancement. In support of local talent development, the lab will collaborate with Singapore’s leading universities—including the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University, and Singapore Management University—on both foundational and applied AI research. These partnerships will provide students with hands-on experience in advanced AI research. The new lab follows a five-year collaboration agreement signed earlier this year between Microsoft Research Asia and NUS to boost AI research and nurture computing talent in the region. Although newly established, Microsoft Research Asia has maintained a long-standing presence in Singapore, having conducted over 70 collaborative research projects and trained more than 85 interns and 13 PhD fellows since 2004. The Singapore lab becomes the 14th facility in Microsoft’s global research network, joining counterparts in Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo, and other innovation hubs worldwide.

News

Bosch Names Darren Chan As Managing Director For Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Bosch has named Darren Chan Chon Hoe as Managing Director of Bosch Malaysia, making him the first Malaysian to hold the role, effective July 1, 2025. In addition to this new appointment, Chan will continue serving as CEO and Managing Director of Bosch Rexroth Malaysia, as well as Regional Technology Leader for Industrial Hydraulics at Bosch Rexroth ASEAN, according to a statement released today. He succeeds Vijay Ratnaparkhe, Regional President of Bosch Southeast Asia, who had been serving as interim Managing Director for the past 11 months. With Chan’s appointment, Ratnaparkhe will return to focus fully on his regional leadership duties. Chan brings over 20 years of experience in industrial automation, having held leadership roles across Southeast Asia in sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, automotive, and general industries. Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, Chan said he views the role as a chance to contribute meaningfully to Malaysia’s progress. “By leveraging Bosch’s century-long presence in Malaysia and the strength of our 3,700 associates nationwide, I aim to deepen public-private partnerships and drive talent development—both vital for enhancing Malaysia’s gross national income per capita,” he said. He also noted that Bosch’s global network, with around 490 subsidiaries in more than 60 countries, allows the company to blend international expertise with a deep understanding of local needs.

Energy & Technology

Singapore’s ASMPT Projects Stable Growth Driven By AI Infrastructure Surge

SINGAPORE, ASMPT Ltd, a leading semiconductor and electronics assembly equipment manufacturer based in Singapore, is reporting sustained growth on the back of surging global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, positioning itself as a key enabler in the ongoing AI-driven digital transformation. The company, formerly known as ASM Pacific Technology, has seen robust order momentum from chipmakers and data center operators as AI workloads — including large language models, computer vision, and real-time inference — drive demand for high-performance processors and advanced packaging technologies. “Our business continues to benefit from strong structural tailwinds in AI adoption across cloud, automotive, and edge computing,” said Robin Ng, Group CEO of ASMPT. “The expansion of AI infrastructure globally is fuelling a new wave of investment in semiconductor backend equipment, and ASMPT is well-positioned to meet that demand.” ASMPT’s advanced packaging and chip assembly solutions play a crucial role in enabling high-density, high-speed data processing. The firm specializes in hybrid bonding, system-in-package (SiP), and advanced thermal compression bonding — all essential for powering next-gen AI chips. In its latest quarterly results, ASMPT reported a year-on-year revenue increase of 12%, with particularly strong performance in its Advanced Packaging Segment, which now accounts for nearly 40% of total sales. Profit margins also improved, aided by operational efficiencies and strong customer demand. The company noted increased orders from global chipmakers looking to ramp up production of GPUs and AI accelerators, as well as networking chips for data centers. Major markets contributing to growth include the United States, Taiwan, South Korea, and increasingly, Southeast Asia. “We’re seeing long-term investment cycles emerging from hyperscalers and chip foundries, and that bodes well for our business over the next 12 to 24 months,” Ng added. ASMPT is also investing in R&D to support future growth. In 2024, it allocated over US$150 million toward research in heterogeneous integration, miniaturisation, and chiplet technologies — areas seen as critical to maintaining Moore’s Law and enabling AI at scale. Analysts view ASMPT as a key beneficiary of the AI megatrend, especially as semiconductor firms shift focus from traditional nodes to more advanced packaging to overcome physical and performance limitations. “ASMPT sits at the heart of the semiconductor backend ecosystem. Its deep expertise in advanced assembly processes gives it a competitive edge as AI workloads push demand for more compact, powerful, and thermally efficient chip solutions,” said a semiconductor analyst at DBS Group Research. Looking ahead, ASMPT is expected to continue expanding its global footprint, with plans to strengthen its manufacturing and service capabilities in Malaysia and Vietnam to better support regional customers. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply chain constraints, the company remains confident in its long-term prospects, pointing to a strong order book and healthy customer pipeline. “The AI infrastructure boom is not just a flash in the pan — it’s a paradigm shift,” Ng said. “And ASMPT will be there to help build it.”

Media OutReach

The agency representing artists with disabilities, HERALBONY, wins a Gold Lion at Cannes ahead of creative industry giants.

PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2025 – HERALBONY is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Gold Lion in the “Glass: The Lion for Change” category at the Cannes Lions 2025, the largest gathering of the creative communications industry. The agency representing artists with disabilities HERALBONY is a creative company that works with artists with disabilities. We craft unique brand experiences through art and storytelling, bringing inclusivity into business. By showcasing their unique expressions and sharing their narratives, we aim to change perceptions of disability and build a society where every ‘difference’ is valued. Managing a collection of over 2,000 artworks by neurodiverse artists, we ensure fair royalties and foster a sustainable business model. Our in-house brand, HERALBONY, produces high-quality products infused with artistry and craftsmanship. Additionally, we collaborate with companies to co-create inclusive experiences and creative projects. We also organize the HERALBONY Art Prize, an international award recognizing outstanding artists with disabilities. In July 2024, we established HERALBONY EUROPE in Paris—our first overseas subsidiary—to further expand our vision on a global scale. Jury President’s Comments from KR Liu (Global Head of Product Innovation & Marketing Partnerships for Platforms and Devices, Google) ‘Glass: The Lion for Change’ was established to celebrate campaigns that challenge gender inequality and stereotypes and drive societal and cultural change. This year, the scope of evaluation was expanded beyond gender to include disability, race, sexuality, and social inequality. Additionally, sustained, long-term impact was introduced as a new evaluation criterion, raising the standards even further. Through the judging process, I learned about HERALBONY for the first time. As I deepened my understanding of the project, I was deeply moved by how HERALBONY creates opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive as artists and creators. We were also highly impressed by HERALBONY’s collaborative work with companies to create significant social impact. Instead of merely growing its own brand, HERALBONY ventured into co-creation with other organizations—a remarkable move that allows for broader and more meaningful societal transformation. I truly hope HERALBONY continues this initiative moving forward. For more information, please click here. Official Website: https://www.heralbony.jp/en Details about the Cannes Lions Award: https://www.heralbony.jp/en/topics/4356 Hashtag: #Art #Creativity #Communication #Marketing #Diversity #Inclusion #HERALBONY https://www.store.heralbony.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/heralbony/https://www.instagram.com/heralbony/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

News

CGS International Introduces New Product Offerings

KUALA LUMPUR, CGS International Securities Pte Ltd, via its subsidiary CGS International Securities Malaysia Sdn Bhd, has introduced two new Islamic structured investment products: the Islamic Equity Linked Investment Notes (ELIN-i) and the Islamic Autocallable Equity Structured Investment Notes (AESIN-i). According to Rushdan Nadzir, Group Head of Syariah Services, the launch marks a significant milestone as these are the first Shariah-compliant equity-linked structured investment products in Malaysia, specifically designed for affluent and institutional investors. “These offerings underscore our dedication to financial innovation while aligning with our shared mission to position Malaysia as a global hub for Islamic finance,” Rushdan said during the product launch. He added that the products support the vision outlined in Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Sector Blueprint 2022–2026, which seeks to solidify Malaysia’s status as a leading financial centre in ASEAN. Rushdan noted that Malaysia’s Islamic capital market, valued at over RM2.6 trillion and representing 63% of the nation’s total capital market, provides a robust foundation for these new offerings. ELIN-i and AESIN-i are designed to provide structured exposure for sophisticated investors seeking opportunities in Shariah-compliant equity investments. “These products tap into Malaysia’s strong legacy in Islamic finance and CGS’s investment expertise to deliver structured alternatives for high net-worth individuals and entities,” he said.

Property

Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust To Sell Two Office Properties In Japan For JPY8.73 Billion

The manager of Mapletree Pan Asia Commercial Trust (MPACT) has announced the sale of two office buildings in Japan to unrelated third parties for a total of approximately JPY8.73 billion (S$78.7 million). MPACT’s Mapletree Anson along Singapore’s Tanjong Pagar The transaction, conducted through MPACT’s subsidiary Tsubaki Tokutei Mokuteki Kaisha, involves the sale of ABAS Shin-Yokohama (ASY) for JPY3.3 billion and TS Ikebukuro Building (TSI) for JPY5.4 billion. The combined sale price represents a 1.7% premium over the total original purchase price of JPY8.58 billion (around S$104.1 million). The divestment will be fully settled in cash and is expected to be completed by the end of August in the FY2025/2026 financial year. Following the completion, MPACT’s portfolio will consist of 15 high-quality commercial properties across five key gateway cities in Asia, with a total net lettable area of 10.4 million square feet and an independent valuation of S$15.9 billion. MPACT units ended flat at S$1.28 on July 23.

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