Author name: admin

Media OutReach

First Phosphate Updates on Corporate Developments, Management Appointments and Insider Stock Purchases

Saguenay, Quebec – Newsfile Corp. – February 27, 2025 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQB: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce the following corporate updates. Bégin-Lamarche Phosphate Mine The Company recently concluded its National Instrument 43-101 (“NI-43-101”) compliant mineral resource estimate (September 2024) and its NI 43-101 compliant Preliminary Economic Assessment (December 2024) for its Bégin-Lamarche property. The Company is in the process of completing its internal pre-feasibility analysis and is readying to launch its formal feasibility study. Buildout capex for the mine is estimated at US $459 million. Annual mine revenues over 23 years are expected to peak at US $362 million at a 37.1% pre-tax IRR. In December 2024, the Company announced definitive long-term agreements with creditworthy offtake partners that are not impacted by the current North American trade-tariff situation. The Company also continues to work towards project financial participation in the Bégin-Lamarche mining project by its indigenous partner, Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation. Phosphoric Acid Facility In December 2024, the Company concluded licensing and engineering agreements for a 190,000 tonne per annum phosphoric acid facility. The internal pre-feasibility and capex study for the facility has now completed by engineering firm Ballestra S.pA. (though not NI 43-101 compliant). Buildout capex for the facility is estimated at US $175 million. Revenues from the facility at today’s prices could total $284 million per annum using directly produced apatite concentrate from the Company’s future Bégin-Lamarche phosphate mine. Definitive offtake in place for this facility is not impacted by the current North American trade-tariff situation. First Saguenay Iron Phosphate Plant In September, 2024, La Baie, Quebec was chosen as the site for the Company’s First Saguenay iron phosphate facility. The feasibility study for the facility has now been fully completed by Ultion Technologies Inc. (though not NI 43-101 compliant). Pending financing, First Saguenay is expected to start small-scale production of iron phosphate pre-cursor material in 2026 ramping up to 11,882 tonnes per annum by 2028 with yearly revenues projected at US $53 million. Funding costs for the facility are estimated at US $76 million. Funding discussions for the facility are ongoing and proceeding as expected. The Company is also waiting for clarity on the impact of the North American trade-tariff situation before assessing its final deployment timelines and rollout plans. Building owner Logistique Proco Inc. has pledged maximum flexibility in terms of lease uptake. The Company has also located various secondary plant development locations in the United States should the North American trade-tariff situation require production facilities in multiple countries. The Company is currently negotiating definitive supply agreements with major purchasers of LFP CAM materials in various segments of the LFP battery industry. In November 2024, the Company signed a collaboration agreement with GKN Hoeganaes, a division of GKN Powder Metallurgy and one of the largest iron powder producers globally. GKN will be able to supply the Company with up to 400,000 tonnes of iron powder required to be able to eventually scale iron phosphate pre-cursor using large economies of scale. GKN Hoeganaes was also successful in integrating the Company’s magnetite (a secondary recovery from its Bégin-Lamarche property) into the GKN proprietary Ancorsteel melting process. This innovative process has led to the development of a high-purity iron powder, which can serve as an input for iron phosphate pre-cursor production. Given, this development, the Company should be in a position to create iron phosphate precursor from both the phosphate and the iron material emanating from its Bégin-Lamarche property to achieve full backwards integration with the mine source. The commencement of the industrial operations proposed by the Company, including the Bégin-Lamarche phosphate mine, phosphoric acid facility and the First Saguenay iron phosphate facility, are subject to a number of conditions, including permitting and financing which the Company continues to work towards diligently. Management Appointments Armand MacKenzie has been promoted to the post of President of the Company and David Dufour to the position of Senior Vice-President. “Armand and David have proven their abilities to assume team leadership. Armand will lead discussions with our indigenous partner and indigenous financial institutions to ensure we meet our objective of having deep Indigenous financial participation in the Company. David will drive operations and community relations as we begin to enter into the next stages of planning of our feasibility study,” said John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate. Insider Stock Purchases Company Chairman, Laurence W. Zeifman, has acquired, through a corporation controlled by him, a total of 40,000 common shares of the Company for $7,475 in the open market since January 1, 2025. Mr. Zeifman has made open market purchases of 359,500 shares for $74,390 since the Company has been publicly listed in February 2023. Company Independent Director, Peter Nicholson, has acquired, through a corporation controlled by him, a total of 197,500 common shares of the Company for $58,945 in the open market since January 1, 2025. Mr. Nicholson has made open market purchases of 532,000 shares for $146,415 since joining as director in September 2024. CEO, John Passalacqua, has acquired, through an entity controlled by him, a total of 811,000 common shares of the Company for $262,424.45 in the open market since January 1, 2025. Mr. Passalacqua has made open market purchases of 1,861,500 shares for $507,324 since the Company has been publicly listed in February 2023. Company management continues to receive 80% of its compensation in the form of RSUs while the Company board of directors receives 100% of its compensation in the form of RSUs. All is done with the intent of keeping capital resources focused on the development of the Company and to have management and board more deeply involved in the ownership structure of the Company. The Company has approved the grant of 2,658,580 restricted share units of the Company (“RSUs”) to eligible directors, management and staff of the Company as part of compensation expenses for the 6 month period commencing March 1, 2025. The RSUs vest on August 31, 2025 and shares issued under these RSUs will

Media OutReach

Budget to maintain Hong Kong’s competitiveness amid fiscal consolidation

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Hong Kong SAR’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan delivered his 2025-26 Budget yesterday (February 26), with clear path and initiatives to rein in the deficit, while accelerating the city’s development and maintaining its competitive edge of a low and simple tax regime. “The key is managing expenditure growth, making good use of the Government’s fiscal resources, and identifying new revenue resources,” Mr Chan said. Hong Kong SAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan (second left), at a press conference on the 2025-26 Budget He forecast a consolidated deficit of $87.2 billion for 2024/25 with the Operating Account returning to surplus within two years. The deficit, Mr Chan said, was largely due to the impact of counter-cyclical measures launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as challenges such as the geopolitical landscape and related disruptions to trade, supply chain, cash flow and sentiment in the investment market. Under a proposed “reinforced version” of the fiscal consolidation programme, Mr Chan announced a range of measures, including a cumulative reduction of 7% in government expenditure by 2027-28, compared to the level in 2024-25. The Government has also put forward that the executive authorities, the legislature, the judiciary and members of the District Councils take a pay freeze for 2025-26. That includes, among others, the Chief Executive and all politically appointed officials, and all civil servants. The civil service establishment will be reduced by 2% each in 2026-27 and 2027-28, with about 10,000 posts expected to be deleted within the next two years. “The Government has all along endeavoured to deliver more efficient public services to citizens through leveraging technology, streamlining processes and driving the digital transformation of public services,” Mr Chan said. The Budget proposes a reinforced version of fiscal consolidation programme to restore fiscal balance in the Operating Account within the current term of Government Meanwhile, the conditions of the two public transport fare subsidy schemes will be adjusted, with expected saving of $6.2 billion in the next five years. Alongside controls on government expenditure, the Financial Secretary proposed a raft of measures to boost revenue, notably by adjusting some government fees and charges under the “user pays” and “affordable users pay” principle. These include, for example, reviewing government fees and charges for road users in relation to some tunnel tolls, trunk roads, licences and parking charges, and increasing the rate of air passenger departure tax from $120 to $200 per passenger starting from October 2025. The Financial Secretary noted that issuing bonds to support infrastructure development is a common practice worldwide. To take forward major infrastructure projects, particularly the Northern Metropolis development, Mr Chan said “Hong Kong has the prerequisite and capability to suitably increase bond issuance, thereby effectively utilising market resources.” “With the increase in capital works expenditure, I will expand the scale of bond issuance accordingly. It is expected that during the five-year period from 2025-26 to 2029-30, a total of about $150 billion to $195 billion worth of bonds will be issued under the Government Sustainable Bond Programme and the Infrastructure Bond Programme every year.” He remarked that bonds will not be issued to fund government recurrent expenditure; instead, they will be used to invest in infrastructure only. The ratio of Hong Kong SAR Government debt to GDP will stay at 12 to 16.5 per cent, which is a prudent and manageable level, and is much lower than most of the advanced economies, Mr Chan emphasised. Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #budget https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-hong-kong/https://x.com/Brand_HK/https://www.facebook.com/brandhk.isdhttps://www.instagram.com/brandhongkong The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

Samitivej International Children’s Hospital Expands, Advancing Pediatric Healthcare in Asia-Pacific

A 2 Billion THB Investment in Pediatric Excellence and Smart Hospital Innovation BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Samitivej Hospital, a leader in pediatric care, unveils its newly expanded standalone Samitivej International Children’s Hospital at Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital. Backed by a 2 billion THB investment, the expansion strengthens Samitivej’s commitment to becoming Asia-Pacific’s Leading Pediatric Referral Hub, providing specialized care, innovative treatments, and seamless medical coordination. Samitivej International Children’s Hospital Expands, Advancing Pediatric Healthcare in Asia-Pacific The upgraded facility serves patients from Thailand and beyond, earning a strong reputation in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar, reinforcing its global healthcare role. Revolutionizing Pediatric Care with Advanced Treatments Samitivej International Children’s Hospital redefines pediatric excellence, offering cutting-edge treatments for complex and rare conditions: Open-Heart Surgery to Minimally Invasive Catheterization – Complete heart care from birth, ensuring advanced treatment and faster recovery. Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) to CAR-T Cell Therapy – Advanced treatments for blood disorders and cancer. Comprehensive Pediatric and Newborn Surgery – Expertise in performing procedures from head to toe, led by specialized doctors. Epilepsy Treatment with Medication to Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Implants – Solutions for drug-resistant epilepsy. Advancing Pediatric Excellence with Cutting-Edge Facilities The new eight-floor hospital features 111 beds, including 12 for critically ill children and 8 neonatal intensive care beds. It integrates Smart Hospital technology for efficiency and patient-centered care. Key features include: Hybrid Operating Room: Precision-driven newborn and pediatric surgical procedures using biplane imaging technology. World-Class Pediatric Specialties: Multidisciplinary teams treating complex and rare conditions. Advanced Neonatal & Pediatric Intensive Care: Specialized care for premature infants under 500 grams. Cutting-Edge Rehabilitation Center: Robotic-assisted gait training, Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) therapy, and Redcord NEURAC systems. Comprehensive International Patient Services: Pre-arrival teleconsultations, aeromedical transport, multilingual care teams, follow-up appointments, and medical evacuation and repatriation. Global Partnerships & Medical Expertise Samitivej collaborates with Doernbecher Children’s Hospital (OHSU, USA) to enhance care for critically ill children, newborns, and trauma patients. A partnership with Takatsuki General Hospital (Japan) ensures specialized neonatal and allergy treatments, providing access to the latest pediatric advancements. Pioneering Smart Hospital Innovations Samitivej leads in digital healthcare, integrating technology to enhance efficiency and care: Well Kidz App: Manages medical records, appointments, and remote consultations. Smart ER & Smart Ambulance Services: Real-time monitoring ensures rapid emergency response. Smart OPD & Smart IPD: AI-powered cost estimation, queue tracking, and seamless patient-medical team communication. D-Discharge System: Streamlined hospital discharge for greater convenience. Exceptional Pediatric Outcomes & Achievements Samitivej delivers outstanding results: 7,000+ critical pediatric cases treated annually 1,000+ newborn and pediatric surgeries performed, including minimally invasive procedures 92% one-year survival rate for bone marrow transplants, surpassing global benchmarks 400+ newborns with heart conditions successfully treated through surgical correction Specialized care provided for premature infants with birth weights below 500 grams 98% trust rating from families A Commitment to a Healthier Future for Every Child Dr. Surangkana Techapaitoon, Deputy CEO of Samitivej and BNH Hospitals and Director of Samitivej International Children’s Hospital, stated: “We want to see a healthier future for every child by integrating innovation, world-class expertise, and compassionate care. This facility strengthens our role as a leading pediatric referral hub, expanding access to specialized treatment and ensuring children everywhere receive the best care from infancy through adolescence.” For more details, please visit: https://smtvj.com/3F5dPKC Hashtag: #SamitivejInternationalChildrensHospital The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Samitivej Hospital Samitivej is a JCI-accredited hospital group, offering world-class care since 1979. With seven hospitals, it is a leading provider of healthcare in Thailand and Southeast Asia, serving both locals and expatriates.

Media OutReach

Cyberport and International Organisations Co-host “AI Safety, Trust, and Responsibility” Forum

WDTA APAC Institute Inaugurated to Lead AI Governance and Standards Development HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Cyberport, the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA) and the International Academicians Science & Technology Innovation Centre (IASTIC) co-organised the “AI Safety, Trust, and Responsibility (AI STR)” Forum. This event served as the Hong Kong session of the recently concluded AI Action Summit 2025 in Paris, France. The forum convened leading international and local academicians, scholars, industry leaders, and experts to share insights on the risks and challenges in AI development and application, and to discuss strategies for balancing innovation with security governance. Prof Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Prof Yale Li, Executive Chairman of WDTA; Prof C.C. Chan, Founder of IASTIC, joined Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, and Dr Rocky Cheng, CEO of Cyberport, in delivering keynote addresses and sharing their perspectives on the future of AI. Cyberport, the World Digital Technology Academy (WDTA) and the International Academicians Science & Technology Innovation Centre (IASTIC) co-organise the “AI Safety, Trust, and Responsibility (AI STR)” Forum. The forum convened international and local experts to discuss the strategies for balancing innovation with security governance. Prof Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, remarked, “To provide the most conducive environment for AI development, Cyberport, being Hong Kong’s digital tech hub, established the AI Supercomputing Centre last year, which will provide high-performance computing power of 3,000 petaFLOPS to support impactful R&D projects on AI. As announced yesterday by the Financial Secretary in the 2025-26 Budget, to establish the Hong Kong AI R&D Institute. A dedicated, public mission-driven undertaking, the institute will spearhead AI development and industry application in Hong Kong, promote cross-sectoral collaboration, and add another exciting chapter in our AI history book. We are mindful of the safety, responsibility and trust issues that beset the AI explorers and users. We could only harness the full power and potentials of AI by addressing these contentious issues proactively.” Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, expressed, “We are delighted to bring together prominent industry experts and leaders from around the world at Cyberport to explore the establishment of a trustworthy and responsible AI ecosystem. This will ensure the controllable, balanced, and sustainable development of this transformative technology. As Hong Kong’s digital tech hub and AI accelerator, Cyberport has achieved significant milestones in building a thriving AI ecosystem over the past year. These include Cyberport’s AI Supercomputing Centre, currently the largest in Hong Kong, and Cyberport’s AI Lab, which unites local AI ecosystem partners and talents to facilitate R&D and collaboration. We look forward to continuing our collaboration across sectors to strengthen Hong Kong’s AI ecosystem and promote AI for good.” During the forum, WDTA announced the establishment of the “WDTA Asia-Pacific Institute (preparatory)” (The Institute) at Cyberport, marked by an official plaque unveiling ceremony. The Institute will spearhead the development of regional AI safety standards and related initiatives, promote innovation in digital technologies, cultivate scientific and industrial talent, and foster global collaboration in the digital era. Prof. Yale Li, Executive Chairman of WDTA, addresses the forum, highlighting WDTA’s recent accomplishments and emphasising the importance of a human-centric and safety-based approach to AI. He outlined three core initiatives: First, to build a “safety-native” technological framework by embedding security throughout the entire AI lifecycle and promoting algorithm transparency and data provenance certification. Second, to establish a “human-oriented” value system that ensures technology addresses social needs, such as equitable healthcare and SME transformation. Finally, WDTA is committed to “responsible innovation” globally, with its AI committee addressing challenges like deepfakes and data misuse within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals framework. Prof. Li officially launched two WDTA certification programs for AI professionals: the “Certified Large Language Model Application Engineer (LLMAE)” and the “Certified Large Language Model Technical Expert (LLMTE)”. These programs are designed to accelerate the training of the next generation of AI professionals, equipping them with both technical expertise and a sense of social responsibility to promote the safety, trust, and responsible development of AI. Prof. Li emphasized, “These certification programs represent a significant step by WDTA to advance global AI talent development. We must establish technical standards and cultivate professionals who embody the principles of ‘human-oriented and safety-based’ to ensure that technological advancements truly benefit society.” Prof. Ching-chuen Chan, Founder of IASTIC, stated, “As a global innovation hub, Hong Kong is an ideal platform to advance AI governance and collaboration. The WDTA will adhere to the core principles of ‘Speed, Safety, and Sharing’, and leverage The Institute to accelerate collaboration among governments, industries, and academia in the APAC. This will facilitate the formulation of digital technology standards and the transformation of cutting-edge research into practical applications. We will lead the establishment of AI STR standards and certification systems, enhancing the international framework for AI governance and security. By working together across industries and borders, we can achieve an inclusive digital future where no one is left behind.” At the forum, Cyberport signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WDTA and IASTIC, under which the three parties will join hands to promote best practices in AI STR testing and evaluation. They will work together to actively cultivate AI talent and explore collaboration in the development of AI testing infrastructure. Cyberport also signed MoUs with five local tertiary institutions: the University of Hong Kong (HKU), the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), the Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU), the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi), and the Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT). These partnerships aim to foster AI-related applied research and talent development. These partnerships will provide students at the partner institutions with internships and employment opportunities, injecting new forces into Hong Kong’s AI industry and accelerating its growth. In addition to leading AI academics and experts, the forum also brought together leaders from Hong Kong’s public, financial, and healthcare sectors to share their valuable insights and practical experiences on topics such as cross-industry AI transformation and balancing AI

Media OutReach

Hang Lung Announces Official Name of “Xi Zhe Wuxi, Curio Collection by Hilton” at Center 66, Set to Open in Q4 2025

Enriching the Complex’s Cultural Landscape and Status as a Benchmark for Urban Excellence HONG KONG SAR, SHANGHAI & WUXI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (the “Company” or “Hang Lung”) today announced the official name of its new lifestyle hotel at Center 66 – Xi Zhe Wuxi, Curio Collection by Hilton (“Xi Zhe”; 無錫錫喆寓,希爾頓格芮精選酒店). The name’s Chinese meaning is a nod to the hotel’s geographical location and brand philosophy of blending heritage and innovation. Scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2025, Xi Zhe is a key component of the second phase of the Center 66 development in Wuxi, and will greatly enhance the complex’s offerings of retail, office, and residential spaces to deliver holistic experiences, reinforcing its positioning as a premier destination for shoppers, business professionals, and visitors alike. Xi Zhe’s Chinese name elegantly embodies the hotel’s geographical location and its brand philosophy of harmonizing heritage with innovation Xi Zhe blends Wuxi’s rich cultural heritage with modern design, providing 105 elegantly appointed rooms across a seven-floor tower and the adjacent three-story former residence of Zhang Xiaocheng (張效程), an architectural gem built in 1933, now nearing its centennial. Demonstrating its commitment to heritage preservation, Hang Lung meticulously restored this historic landmark—designated a cultural heritage protection unit at the Wuxi municipal level—ensuring its original charm and significance are preserved. By seamlessly integrating history with contemporary luxury, Xi Zhe offers a distinctive lifestyle experience. This unique offering is amplified by Center 66’s prime location in Wuxi’s central business district. Phase One, which opened in 2013, features a world-class shopping mall with over 200 retail brands—about half of them are first-in-market—alongside two office towers and the self-operated multifunctional workspace HANGOUT. Phase Two, launching in stages from 2025, will introduce the prestigious Center Residences and the highly anticipated Xi Zhe, further elevating Center 66’s portfolio and driving commercial synergies. Xi Zhe features 105 elegantly designed rooms across a seven-story tower and the adjacent historic residence of Zhang Xiaocheng, a three-story architectural gem Mr. Herman Chui, Senior Director – Office, Hotel & Residence of Hang Lung, said, “Xi Zhe embodies our commitment to elevating Center 66’s prominence and enriching the broader community, aligning with Hang Lung’s long-term vision for both the complex and Wuxi’s development. The second phase of this project, long embedded in our strategic plan, is set to be a transformative force for the Liangxi District’s urban renewal. The hotel will be a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the perfect blend of Wuxi’s historical charm and modern vibrancy, enticing cross-city consumers of the Yangtze Delta, and strengthening Hang Lung’s market presence.” Curio Collection by Hilton is a global set of individually remarkable hotels hand-picked to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Each hotel in the Curio Collection evokes a bespoke story through distinctive architecture and design, world-class food & beverage, and curated experiences, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Xi Zhe’s lobby, where elegance meets modern design Note to Editor – Key Offerings of Center 66, Wuxi: Year of Opening/Scheduled Completion and Gross Floor Area Offerings Phase One Phase Two Retail Mall 2013 Approx. 122,000 sq. m. – Office 2014 (Tower 1) and 2019 (Tower 2) Approx. 138,000 sq. m. in total – Xi Zhe Wuxi, Curio Collection by Hilton – Scheduled to open in Q4 2025 7,165 sq. m. encompassing 105 guestrooms, two restaurants, a lobby lounge, a bespoke event space, an indoor pool and a fitness center Center Residences – Scheduled for completion from 2025 onwards Two towers comprising 573 units and spanning approx. 100,000 sq. m. in total (Remarks: the images are artist’s impression for reference only) Hashtag: #HangLungProperties The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Hang Lung Properties Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Hang Lung Properties develops and manages a diversified portfolio of world-class properties in Hong Kong and the nine Mainland cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan and Hangzhou. With its luxury positioning under the “66” brand, the company’s Mainland portfolio has established its leading position as the “Pulse of the City”. Hang Lung Properties is also recognized for leading the way in enhancing sustainability initiatives in the real estate industry, all the while pursuing sustainable growth by connecting customers and communities. At Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well. For more information, please visit www.hanglung.com.

News

Infobip’s journey from startup to unicorn without raising funds

KUALA LUMPUR: Global communications platform Infobip has launched a new documentary in collaboration with CBS News, chronicling its rise from a startup to becoming the first Croatian company to achieve a billion-dollar valuation—without external funding. The film highlights Infobip’s rapid growth and how its solutions have empowered some of the world’s most recognized brands to deliver seamless, conversational customer experiences that foster loyalty. Today’s consumers expect to engage with their favorite brands on the same channels they use to communicate with family and friends—without switching between multiple apps or websites. To meet these evolving expectations, businesses must offer fluid, omnichannel interactions. Since its founding in 2006, Infobip has been a pioneer in omnichannel communication, making business-to-customer interactions more accessible and intuitive. A prime example is Infobip’s partnership with Uber, which has been instrumental in enhancing user experience across key markets like APAC, EMEA, and LATAM, serving over 110 million users. Since 2019, Infobip has powered Uber’s number masking feature, ensuring secure, anonymous communication between drivers and passengers—achieving a 90% global call anonymization rate. Over time, this collaboration has expanded to include SMS alerts, WhatsApp messaging, and even the ability to order an Uber directly through chat. The documentary also explores how Infobip’s cutting-edge solutions, including conversational AI and emerging messaging technologies like RCS, give brands a competitive edge. Silvio Kutić, CEO of Infobip, shared: “As technology and customer expectations evolve, Infobip remains at the forefront of omnichannel innovation, as demonstrated by our partnership with Uber. Through a hands-on approach, our dedicated team continues to push boundaries, delivering market-leading solutions that create effortless, conversational experiences for businesses and their customers.” Watch Infobip’s documentary now on YouTube .

Media OutReach

NTT Sparks Smart Building Revolution with New OCEAN Intelligence™ Platform in Hong Kong

Offering a Strategic Vision to Bring AI into Every Building, empowered with an Open Partner Ecosystem HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – As part of NTT Group, a world-leading telecommunications and ICT service provider, NTT Com Asia (NTT) today launched OCEAN Intelligence™ in Hong Kong, a ground-breaking AI-powered open platform set to transform smart building management. With the vision to “Bring AI into Every Building” with an open partner ecosystem approach, the new platform represents a game-changer for building management by fostering collaboration and open innovations. The photo features Steven So, Senior Vice President, NTT Com Asia (left) and Stephen Tsang, Chief Revenue Officer, NTT Com Asia (right). At its core, OCEAN Intelligence™ makes AI accessible through three foundational pillars: Openness – that breaks down proprietary barriers and data silos, and enable convergence of OT/IT/IoT; Partner Ecosystem – an open partner ecosystem that enables innovation and collaboration among local and global technology providers to create new services; Quality Data – leverage open hardware to allow cost effective control and collection of real-time high-density equipment data, together with digitization of operation data through automation of operation processes, this forms a superior data foundation for machine learning. “OCEAN Intelligence™ unique strength lies in its ability to democratise AI, with data quality as its core foundation, making it accessible to every building.” said Steven So, Senior Vice President, NTT Com Asia. “Acting like human brain and central nervous system of smart buildings, the platform connects previously disparate systems and enables data intelligence to flow seamlessly throughout the entire infrastructure. Beyond AI, its modular design and strong open partner ecosystem enables quick deployment in existing environments and opens up possibilities to integrate with partners for new solutions.” The platform builds upon the company’s commitment to open innovations driving smart building development. A thriving partner ecosystem brings in the latest technology from startups and industry partners to offer more choices to the market. For example, users can benefit Chiller Plant Energy Optimization solution from Carnot Innovations, a startup incubated from Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, which uses AI to analyse operational data to maximise efficiency and reduce energy usage and costs. Through Carnot Innovations’ integration with OCEAN Intelligence, the chiller plant can be directly managed, breaking down data silos, and speeding up deployment under a single pane of glass. “Openness and collaboration are essential in today’s complex building environments and fast-growing development of AI and IoT technologies, where the open partner ecosystem approach delivers far greater value than isolated technologies,” adds Steven. “With the global smart building market projected to reach USD 359 billion by 2035, growing at over 24% annually, we’re creating significant business opportunities for our partners across the ecosystem — from hardware manufacturers to specialized AI solution providers. This partner-centric approach creates mutual value: partners gain access to new markets and revenue streams, while customers benefit from best-in-class solutions tailored to their specific needs.” “Today’s complex building challenges demand collaborative solutions. Carnot Innovations brings deep AI expertise and a proven track record, partnering with industry leaders like NTT. Our collaboration within the OCEAN Intelligence™ partner ecosystem allows us to address critical solution gaps with cutting-edge AI. Leveraging NTT’s resources, we provide enhanced support to local clients, ultimately delivering more choices, better integration, and a more streamlined smart building transformation journey,” said Ashish Jerry Justin, Co-founder and CEO, Carnot Innovations. Phil McManus, Director, Business Innovations, NTT Com Asia (left), Jackie Yuen, Senior Director, System Design & Architecture, NTT Com Asia (middle), and Ashish Jerry Justin, Co-founder and CEO, Carnot Innovations (right) showcase the NTT OCEAN Intelligence™ and the Chiller Plant Energy Optimization, powered by Carnot Innovations. Leveraging NTT’s global R&D and local talents, the platform empowers businesses to achieve substantial cost efficiencies, optimize building operations, and enhance asset value. Already deployed in NTT facilities and customers in Hong Kong and other locations, OCEAN Intelligence™ is slated for further international rollout. “With an investment of over HKD170 million into the research and development of the technology, it represents strategic expansion of our vision for AI and smart city,” said Stephen Tsang, Chief Revenue Officer, NTT Com Asia. “It aligns with the Hong Kong Government’s initiatives to establish the city as a leading Information and Technology hub in the region. By championing innovation in smart building management and supporting the development of critical facilities, we’re actively contributing to Hong Kong’s technological advancement and helping solidify its position as a pioneer in smart city development across Asia and globally.” The launch is a key investment in the company’s series of strategic initiatives to accelerate Hong Kong’s digital transformation into a smart city. This launch follows the successful introduction of the NTT Innovation Alliance in April 2024, High-Performance Computing as-a-service with a Direct Liquid Cooling enabled AI-ready data centre in June 2024, and Private 5G service in September 2024, underscoring NTT’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions for Hong Kong’s future. OCEAN Intelligence™: Key Benefits OCEAN Intelligence™ gathers and processes data from diverse building systems to optimise performance with unparalleled precision. User benefits include: Predictive AI: The platform uses AI to automate tasks and provide real-time insights, leading to significant improvements in efficiency. It allows businesses to reduce maintenance downtime by up to 75%, speed up data provisioning for new buildings by 2X, and speed up decision making and incident root cause analysis by 5X. Cost Optimisation: Users can achieve up to 30% savings on air-conditioning energy bills, reduce maintenance expenses by up to 50% through predictive maintenance, and lower data collection costs by 40% with open data collection hardware. Customisable and Modular Agility: The platform is designed to be open and modular. This allows it to be deployed with existing platforms or solutions or integrated with current and future solutions from partners. This gives customers the freedom to build their platform, scale according to their business needs and add unique features and services to maximise the value of the building — all within a single platform. For more information

Media OutReach

Lao Brewery Company Strengthens Commitment to a Greener Future with Renewable Energy and Sustainability Initiatives

VIENTIANE, LAOS – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Lao Brewery Company (LBC), the nation’s leading brewer, is taking a bold step forward in its sustainability journey, reinforcing its commitment to environmental responsibility through innovative green energy initiatives. In alignment with Carlsberg Group’s global “Together Towards ZERO and Beyond” programme, LBC is accelerating efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and support Laos’ sustainable development goals. From L-R: Mr. Dung Le, Director of VN Green Energy Company, Mr. Henrik Juel-Andersen, Managing Director of Lao Brewery Company, Mr. Joao Abecasis, Executive Vice President, Asia at Carlsberg Group, Dr. Manothong Vongsay, Vice Minister of Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Mr. Jacob Aarup-Andersen, CEO of Carlsberg Group, Mr. Thanousack Hommachack, Lao Brewery Company Board of Director, Mr. Sayyadeth Vongsay, Mr. Sithixay Ketthavong, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability of Lao Brewery Company LBC is making a major transition by partnering with VN Green Energy Company to open the first biomass facility in Laos. This factory will supply LBC’s Vientiane brewery with green steam energy from February 2025 replacing fossil fuels with steam energy produced from biomass waste, powering more than 80% of the plant. This move is expected to significantly cut carbon emissions at the Vientiane Brewery, reaching LBC’s net zero targets 5 years ahead of plan and contributing to Carlsberg’s global target of achieving net-zero emissions across all breweries by 2030. The company is also exploring additional renewable energy opportunities for its Pepsi plant in Vientiane and its brewery in Pakse. “Sustainability is at the heart of our business, and we are proud to take this major step towards reducing our carbon footprint in Laos,” said Henrik Juel Andersen, Managing Director of LBC. “By implementing biomass energy and continuing to explore further renewable energy solutions, we hope to lead by example—not only in Laos but across the region.” This announcement comes alongside Carlsberg Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen’s 3-day visit to Laos, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability across its global operations. “Carlsberg’s ‘Together Towards ZERO and Beyond’ programme is about taking concrete action to reduce emissions and drive sustainability in all our markets. LBC’s transition to biomass energy and ongoing exploration of broader renewable energy sources is a great example of how our breweries can play a pivotal role in building a more sustainable future,” said Aarup-Andersen. Beyond renewable energy, LBC has been at the forefront of creating progress in sustainability through various initiatives, including the Sustainable Rice Farming Project, which not only promotes organic farming practices and supports local farmers through innovative technology but also trains farmers in regenerative agriculture methods that enable a 100% sustainable and environmentally friendly rice farming ecosystem. Additionally, LBC has made significant strides in reducing water usage, improving packaging sustainability, and minimising waste across its operations. The company’s Zero Packaging Waste programme, which has been ongoing since 2018, has successfully maintained a 97% collection rate of empty 640ml Beerlao bottles, reusing each bottle up to 14 times, before sending them for recycling. LBC’s contribution to driving sustainable practices in Laos goes beyond the company. As the country’s largest taxpayer, contributing over LAK 5.1 trillion (USD 239 million) in taxes in 2024, LBC plays a vital role in supporting national development. Within the company, it also runs initiatives extending beyond environmental causes, including investing in corporate social responsibility programmes, education, healthcare and disaster relief efforts across the country. During his visit, Aarup-Andersen, along with Andersen, will meet with Lao government officials to discuss LBC’s role in supporting the country’s green transition and strengthening public-private partnerships for sustainable growth. “We are not just brewing beer; we are brewing a better future for Laos and beyond,” added Andersen. “Our ambition is to set the standard for sustainable brewing in the region, proving that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.” Stay updated on LBC’s latest initiatives on Facebook @LaoBreweryCompanyLTDHashtag: #LaoBrewery The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Lao Brewery The Lao Brewery Co. Ltd. (LBC) – established in 1973, is the largest brewery company in Laos. The flagship product of the company is Beerlao, a strong national beer brand with 95% market share that has received international awards for its quality. The company has grown significantly over the past 20 years and now has more than 2,500 employees and three production lines – two in the capital Vientiane and one in Pakse. Find out more at https://beerlao.la/

Investment & Market Trends

7-Eleven Japan’s owner drops 12% as founding family lacks buyout funds

TOKYO: Shares in the Japanese owner of 7-Eleven plunged as much as 12% on Thursday after the convenience store giant said its founding family failed to put together a white-knight buyout. Last year Seven & i rejected an offer worth nearly US$40 billion from Canadian rival Alimentation Couche-Tard (ACT) which would have been the biggest foreign buyout of a Japanese firm. Even as ACT reportedly sweetened its bid, Seven & i said in November it was studying a counter-offer from its founding Ito family reportedly worth around eight trillion yen (US$54 billion). The family were reportedly negotiating financing from top Japanese banks as well as companies such as Itochu Corp, which owns the FamilyMart chain. But Seven & i said Thursday it was “notified that it has become difficult to procure the necessary funds for an official proposal about the acquisition.” “We will continue to explore and scrutinise all strategic options including the proposal from ACT,” it said in a statement. Itochu said in its own statement it had “sincerely considered the matter” but that its “consideration on this matter has been terminated.” ‘Grossly undervalued’ With around 85,000 outlets, 7-Eleven is the world’s biggest convenience store brand. The franchise began in the US, but it has been wholly owned by Seven & i since 2005. ACT, which began with one store in Quebec in 1980, now runs nearly 17,000 convenience store outlets worldwide including the Circle K chain. In September, when Seven & i rejected the initial takeover offer from ACT, the company said it had “grossly” undervalued its business and could face regulatory hurdles. Its 7-Eleven stores are a beloved institution in Japan, selling everything from concert tickets to pet food and fresh rice balls, although sales have been flagging. Japan’s minister for economic revitalisation said in January that the country would study the “economic security” aspects of any foreign acquisition of 7-Eleven. Ryosei Akazawa highlighted the role Japan’s convenience stores can play in times of crisis, such as after major earthquakes and other disasters, particularly in remote regions. In 2021, ACT dropped a takeover bid worth €16 billion for French supermarket Carrefour after the French government said it would veto the deal over food security concerns. Late morning in Tokyo, Seven & i shares were down 11.2%.–FMT

Investment & Market Trends

Nuanu’s $70M Investment Launch in Bali Draws Global Attention from 10+ countries

BALI: Nuanu is redefining investment in Bali with the official launch of its $70 Million commercial and residential development opportunities. At an exclusive event on February 22, 2025, held at Nuanu Creative City, local and international investors from 10+ countries gathered to explore the future of this game-changing destination. A staggering result of 1,244 investment inquiries worldwide, including from Singapore and Malaysia, making it a key milestone in Nuanu’s growing global interest as a premier destination for sustainable and innovative development. As the largest sustainable development in Bali, Nuanu is strategically aligned with Indonesia’s investment roadmap, which targets 5.7% YoY growth by 2045[1]. With more than 50 active projects projected by the end of 2025 and an estimated 3.2 million visitors within its opening, Nuanu is set to become a thriving hub for investment, culture, and innovation, solidifying its role as an exclusive ecosystem for forward-thinking enterprises. “Nuanu is at a pivotal stage where we’re not just inviting investors to support our vision, but to bring their own and co-create something truly amazing. This is an opportunity to experiment, push boundaries, and redefine how people live, work, and create together. With this investment launch, we are opening doors for those who believe in innovation, sustainability, and the power of a connected community.” said Lev Kroll, CEO of Nuanu. Nuanu has launched investment opportunities in commercial projects for local and international investors, offering top projects with highly unique concepts. These include the debut of ACADIA, the announcement of Desa Jiwa with Bali Fashion Village concept, the reveal of two new real estate projects, and other exciting developments.   ACADIA – The Future of Culinary & Entertainment in Asia Spanning 17,000 m² in the heart of Nuanu, ACADIA is set to become one of Asia’s Top-5 food hubs, featuring 3 restaurants, 28 food courts, 31 multi-functional areas, two underground clubs with a 2,500-person capacity, and a 1,500-seat amphitheater. Now over 60% complete, ACADIA is on track for its grand launch in Q4 2025.   Desa Jiwa – High-End Fashion & Lifestyle Destination Designed by renowned architect Popo Danes, this architectural park brings together top fashion brands, from Bali-based designers to global labels, creating a high-end shopping experience. Combining freehold and leasehold opportunities, it offers strong capital appreciation potential.   LUMEIRA – Nuanu’s Largest Wellness Experience LUMEIRA, the largest wellness complex in Nuanu has already achieved high occupancy during its soft launch. LUMEIRA is the first business in Nuanu to successfully reach its second stage of investments, making it a standout highlight of the event. Featuring the world’s largest wood-fired dome sauna and sound healing room, and a diverse range of hot treatments from around the globe, LUMEIRA is both a wellness retreat and a thriving community hub. SETTER – The Next-Gen Co-Working Hub for Global Entrepreneurs SETTER will be the first coworking space to collaborate with Nuanu, offering exclusive access until full occupancy. With a proven model of three successful locations in Bali boasting a 90% average occupancy rate, SETTER will cater to the increasing demand from innovation-driven companies relocating closer to Nuanu. Connected to Nuanu via shuttles and pedestrian pathways, SETTER is set for handover in Q3 2026. Nuanu Real Estate In addition to its commercial developments, Nuanu has launched two new residential projects supported by Nuanu Real Estate. Nuanu Real Estate is an innovation in living, offering high-quality homes that seamlessly integrate with creative hubs, vibrant communities, and the serene nature of Bali. Currently, we have eight real estate projects under development, including the newly launched residential projects, The Collection Vol. 3 and Biom.   The Collection Vol. 3 As the most exclusive development in The Collection series, Vol. 3 redefines high-end living with premium materials, rare hardwoods, and cutting-edge smart home technology. Built with top construction quality and strict adherence to timelines, it offers five expansive 4+1 bedroom villas (497m²) with private pools on 750m²+ land plots. Located near a private Nuanu entrance, it ensures privacy, and exclusivity. Available with freehold ownership for both foreigners and Indonesian citizens. The Collection Vol. 3 is also the first collaboration project with the Art Privilege Fund by Nuanu, where buyers are not only purchasing a residence but also have the opportunity to become art collectors. Biom Biom offers fully furnished and managed properties, perfect for both living and investment within Nuanu. Designed for harmony between architecture, nature, and people, it embraces mindful minimalism, functionality, and natural aesthetics, blending modernism with wabi-sabi philosophy. Featuring 68 units, including townhouses and villas, Biom is available with a 25-year leasehold (with extension options) and three exclusive freehold properties for both foreigners and Indonesian citizens. Explore investment opportunities in Nuanu. Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.nuanu.com to learn more. [1]Indonesia Investment Guidebook, Ministry of Investment Indonesia

Scroll to Top

Subscribe
FREE Newsletter