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Media OutReach

Gaw Capital Partners and Patience Capital Group Complete Acquisition of an Iconic Mall in Central Ginza, Tokyo

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – Real estate private equity firm Gaw Capital Partners today announced that the firm, through a fund under its management and investment from co-investors, has partnered with Patience Capital Group (PCG) to form a joint venture for the acquisition and management of prime retail asset “Tokyu Plaza Ginza” in Ginza 5-chome, Tokyo, Japan. Gaw Capital holds 91% of the venture while PCG holds the other 9%. Tokyu Plaza Ginza Completed in 2016, Tokyu Plaza Ginza has a gross floor area of 15,153 tsubo (50,093 sqm). It has direct access to Ginza Station and is a short walk from JR Yurakucho Station. The mall is surrounded by flagship stores of luxury brands, renowned department stores and upscale hotels, in the heart of one of Tokyo’s most prestigious shopping districts. The asset is one of the largest and rarest retail facilities in Ginza, occupying a high-street footprint of over 1,139 tsubo and spanning an entire block with four-sided frontage. Its unparalleled location offers exceptional accessibility and prestige. Tokyo retail sales volume continued to outperform, fueled by robust spending on luxury goods by increasing number of tourists and the yen depreciation. Furthermore, domestic consumption in Japan benefits from the positive wage growth outlook. With the government’s planned revitalization of the adjacent Tokyo Expressway (KK Line) into a green pedestrian walk, known as the Tokyo Sky Corridor (High Line) that is set to partially open in 2029, it is expected to further enhance the potential value of Tokyu Plaza Ginza. Isabella Lo, Managing Director, Principal – Investments and Head of Japan at Gaw Capital, commented, “We are thrilled to acquire this iconic retail asset in Ginza, Tokyo. Our partnership with Patience Capital Group brings together synergies that will maximize the value of this iconic asset. By combining Patience Capital Group’s ability to source unique opportunities and Gaw Capital’s extensive retail experience, we are confident in our ability to reposition the mall as a premier retail destination. With favorable macroeconomic fundamentals supporting Japan’s retail sector, this is a highly opportune time to invest.” Alvin Lo, Managing Director, Principal – Asset Management at Gaw Capital, added, “Leveraging the firm’s extensive expertise in retail value-add strategies, Gaw Capital is excited to lead the asset management strategy and leasing of the asset. The business plan involves transforming the mall into a vibrant, brand-new retail destination with a refreshed tenant mix and a coherent concept.” Ken Chan, Founder and CEO, Patience Capital Group said, “We are excited about our partnership with Gaw Capital. PCG’s extensive relationships in Japan gives us unique access to off-market opportunities. These deep connections were key in helping us source and put together this deal. With the Japanese retail sector’s resilient demand, Gaw Capital’s retail experience and PCGs track record of working with brands to craft the ideal tenant mix, we look forward to leveraging our combined strengths to unlock the potential of this exceptional asset.”Hashtag: #GawCapitalPartners The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Gaw Capital Partners Gaw Capital Partners is a uniquely positioned private equity fund management company focusing on real estate markets in Asia Pacific and other high barrier-to-entry markets globally. Specializing in adding strategic value to under-utilized real estate through redesign and re-positioning, the firm’s investments span the entire spectrum of real estate sectors, including residential development, commercial offices, retail malls, hospitality, logistics warehouses and IDC projects. Since its inception in 2005, Gaw Capital has raised seven commingled funds targeting Asia Pacific regions. The firm also manages value-add/opportunistic funds in the US, a Pan-Asia hospitality fund, a European Hospitality Fund, a Growth Equity Fund, and it also provides services for credit investments and separate account direct investments globally. Gaw Capital has raised equity of US$22.9 billion since 2005 and commanded assets of US$35.8 billion under management as of Q3 2024. The acquisition underscores Gaw Capital’s steadfast dedication to seizing opportunities in Japan’s vibrant market. The firm continues to identify high-potential assets and create exceptional value through innovative asset management strategies in the region. With approximately JPY 655 billion (US$ 4.7 billion) in assets under management across Japan, Gaw Capital’s portfolio is now diversified across office, retail, residential, hotel, data centers, and logistics sectors. Gaw Capital has vast expertise in retail asset management, with a proven track record in transforming and enhancing the value of retail properties. Its retail portfolio includes prestigious high-end malls such as Sanlitun in Beijing, the Florentia Village outlet platform across mainland China, community malls in Hong Kong, and prominent high-street retail properties in Tokyo’s Omotesando. About Patience Capital Group Established in 2019, Patience Capital Group (PCG) is a visionary real estate and private equity investment manager, widely regarded as experts in Japanese real estate. PCG has cultivated deep relationships with brands, businesses, corporates, and financial institutions both in Japan and across the globe. These relationships serve as a strategic cornerstone that empowers the firm to create a robust investment ecosystem and provide access to off-market opportunities. Leveraging its vast networks and best-in-class deal sourcing and execution capabilities, PCG’s funds invest in acquiring and developing tourism-related assets across Japan, and high-quality residential assets in and around the Tokyo metropolitan area. PCG manages commercial, hospitality and residential assets – from inception, through development to refurbishment, branding and tenanting. The team has a collective investment track record of 70 years’ experience in Japan real estate & private equity, having invested over US$20 billion across various real estate classes. Additionally, PCG offers real estate development advisory and project consulting services. For more information, please visit http://patiencecapital.group.

Lifestyle

INFINITY8 Marks 8th Anniversary with Kuala Lumpur Expansion

KUALA LUMPUR: The last eight years have seen many changes for INFINITY8, Malaysia’s leading homegrown co-working space brand. In under a decade, they’ve charted a path across the nation’s co-working scene, empowering over 600 existing businesses across more than 11 prime locations with dynamic workspaces tailored to modern professionals and organisations across Johor Bahru, Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Boasting an average 80% occupancy rate, this benchmark is further celebrated with the company’s strategic expansion into Kuala Lumpur, cemented by the launch of the flagship Reserve series at Menara Southpoint, Mid-Valley. This Southpoint location embodies luxe, premium essence of the Reserve series, with a workspace inspired by the timeless elegance of  Mid-Century Modern designs, featuring soft, earthy tones, warm wooden accents, and striking minimalist furniture, carefully curated to spark creativity while providing the comfort and charm of a home. Designed to foster productivity, collaboration and community building, the first of this flagship series in Kuala Lumpur seeks to cater to diverse clients, from startups and SMEs to multinational corporations (MNCs) seeking turnkey workspace solutions that go beyond the conventional desk. “What started as a dream shared by a small team in Johor Bahru has grown into something bigger than we ever imagined,” said Lee Sheah Liang, CEO and Co-Founder of INFINITY8. “From our first location to our newest flagship, we’re reminded that the people make our spaces special. Their energy, ideas, and dreams drive us forward.” As businesses worldwide adapt to changing work trends, the demand for flexible, high-performance workspaces has accelerated alongside Malaysia’s economic growth and digital transformation. Here, INFINITY8 offers solutions that seamlessly blend efficiency, scalability, and value, with thoughtfully designed, adaptable environments equipped with premium amenities. By catering to the diverse needs of startups, SMEs, and global corporations, they are redefining co-working spaces as a platform for growth, collaboration, and success in today’s evolving business landscape.   The launch of INFINITY8 Reserve Mid Valley Southpoint represents more than just a milestone—it’s the start of a transformative journey for INFINITY8. While this flagship location sets new standards for premium coworking spaces, the company is already looking ahead, with plans to unveil its next landmark destination at Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) in Q2 2025. Positioned as the crown jewel of the Reserve series, the TRX location promises to redefine coworking luxury. With its cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art amenities, and an atmosphere of exclusivity, this space is set to attract top-tier businesses and forward-thinking professionals. TRX, as Malaysia’s global financial hub, perfectly complements INFINITY8’s vision to cater to multinational corporations and high-growth companies looking for prestigious, future-ready workspaces.   INFINITY8 goes far beyond providing coworking spaces—it is a comprehensive business enabler. For foreign corporations and multinational companies (MNCs), INFINITY8’s seamless, ready-to-use workspaces offer an ideal launchpad for entering the Malaysian market. With professional-grade amenities and plug-and-play solutions, businesses can hit the ground running without the hassle of setting up an office from scratch. Beyond serving businesses, INFINITY8 actively supports NGOs, trade associations, and community-based initiatives, reflecting its ethos of giving back to society.    In line with this, part of the celebrations for INFINITY8’s eighth anniversary includes the rolling out of multiple special offers to empower businesses and organisations nationwide; One month of free coworking space access across all locations in Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. Up to four months of complimentary rent for private offices at all INFINITY8 locations. 30% off recruitment services for the first placement. 4 hours of free meeting room access for professionals in Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang (subject to terms and conditions)   These offers are available until 31 December 2025.   As INFINITY8 celebrates eight years of growing and learning, the company remains steadfast in its mission to redefine coworking in Malaysia and beyond. As they continue to empower businesses of all sizes to thrive in an ever-evolving work landscape, the launch of Mid Valley Southpoint signals an exciting new chapter, and with the upcoming TRX location poised to set a new benchmark in coworking luxury, INFINITY8 is ready to cement its position as Malaysia’s leading provider of flexible workspaces, making the future looks brighter than ever.    INFINITY8 invites entrepreneurs, corporations, and communities to be part of this journey as they build a legacy of hospitality, resilience, and success. To find out more about INFINITY8, visit their website at https://www.infinity8.com.my/.

News

Khazanah Reports RM5.1 Billion Profit in 2024

PETALING JAYA: Khazanah Nasional Bhd recorded a profit from operations of RM5.1 billion for 2024 while maintaining a robust realisable asset value (RAV) and a debt ratio of 3.2 times. Managing director Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir attributed the strong performance to disciplined monetisation strategies, steady dividend income, and fair value gains from global public equities. “2024 was a good year for us. Our net asset value (NAV) grew by RM18.8 billion to RM103.6 billion, up from RM84.8 billion in 2023. Meanwhile, our total portfolio size, as measured by RAV, rose by RM16.3 billion to RM151.3 billion from RM135 billion the previous year,” he said at the Khazanah Annual Review 2025 media briefing. The sovereign wealth fund also declared a RM1 billion dividend for 2024, bringing its cumulative dividend contributions to the government to RM19.1 billion since 2004. Malaysia’s Economic Resilience Amirul noted that Malaysia’s economy remained resilient in 2024, with GDP growth expected to accelerate to between 4.8% and 5.3%. The ringgit strengthened by 2.7% against the US dollar, while the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) posted an impressive 12.58% gain. Khazanah’s disciplined investment strategy, coupled with the country’s strong economic environment, drove a NAV time-weighted rate of return of 24.6%—a significant increase from 5.7% in 2023. Long-Term Growth and Future Strategy From a broader perspective, Khazanah’s NAV has grown from RM33 billion in 2004 to RM104 billion in 2024, achieving a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9%. “This growth aligns with Khazanah’s mandate to generate sustainable returns for the nation while enhancing Malaysia’s long-term wealth,” Amirul said. However, he acknowledged weaker performance in the private market due to the lagging effects of higher interest rates and a challenging financing and exit environment. Looking ahead, Khazanah plans to continue its value creation efforts and portfolio rebalancing strategy to strengthen its balance sheet and build a more resilient financial position.

Media OutReach

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Romance and Refinement at Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – This Valentine’s Day, couples can treat themselves to an unforgettable experience at two of Thailand’s most romantic destinations: Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi. With their exclusive Valentine’s offers, these stunning beachfront resorts promise to deliver the ultimate romantic getaway. Amari Phuket: Nestled on the serene shores of Patong Beach, Amari Phuket offers couples an enchanting escape to the tropics. With its prime location overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, the resort combines luxury with tranquillity. Guests can choose from a variety of elegantly designed rooms and suites, such as the Superior Balcony Room or the Club One Bedroom Suite Ocean View Balcony, all offering breathtaking views and modern comforts. Amari Phuket boasts exceptional dining venues such as their exclusive TreePods, offering an unparalleled dining experience high among the treetops, La Gritta, serving authentic Italian cuisine, and Rim Talay, which offers international and Asian dishes with panoramic sea views. For those seeking a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere, Samutr Bar and The Jetty provide the perfect settings for sunset cocktails and romantic stargazing dinners. For adventurous couples, the resort is ideally located near Phuket’s popular attractions, including Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Central Patong, and the vibrant Phuket Town. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, scuba diving, and jet skiing directly from the property. To make this Valentine’s Day even more special, Amari Phuket presents three exclusive dining experiences on 14 February 2025, from 18:00 – 22:00: Valentine’s Day Dinner at the Treepod Valentine Spread at Rim Talay Valentine’s Day – L’amore in Spiaggia Amari Vogue Krabi: Sunset Beach Romance Located on the pristine Tubkaek Beach, Amari Vogue Krabi is a haven of tranquillity and elegance. This 5-star resort is renowned for its contemporary Thai-style architecture, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern comforts. Guests are welcomed into a serene setting with lush tropical gardens, stunning Andaman Sea views, and a range of luxurious accommodation options, from Deluxe Rooms with private balconies to family-friendly villas with private plunge pools. The resort’s signature restaurant, Marco’s Restaurant & Bar, offers a relaxed beachfront dining experience with Pan-Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, complemented by creative cocktails and live music on selected evenings. For a taste of authentic Thai flavours, Lotus Restaurant provides a rich menu in a beautifully decorated setting. Guests can also enjoy bespoke experiences like the Sunset Beach Picnic, where they can unwind on the soft sands of Tubkaek Beach with wine, canapés, and the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. On 14 February 2025, Amari Vogue Krabi presents two exclusive dining experiences: 1. Romantic Candlelight Dinner Couples can celebrate their love with an exquisite four-course menu in the romantic candlelight setting of Marco’s Restaurant. Price: THB 3,499++ per couple 2. Sundown Beach Romance Couples can enjoy a curated five-course menu at a romantic beachside candlelit dinner, featuring breathtaking limestone views. Complimentary welcome bubbles included. Price: THB 5,499++ per couple Beyond dining, the resort offers a range of activities, including rejuvenating treatments at Chaonang Spa, three swimming pools, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Guests can also embark on island-hopping adventures to iconic locations like Hong Island, just 10 minutes away by longtail boat, or explore Krabi’s lively town centre, a 40-minute drive from the resort. Why Choose Amari for Valentine’s Day? Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi offer more than just a holiday – they create moments to treasure forever. Whether it’s a secluded dining experience in a treetop pod, a candlelit dinner by the sea, or indulgent spa treatments, every detail is designed to celebrate love in the most enchanting settings. For more information or to book your romantic getaway, visit www.amari.com. 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

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Romance and Refinement at Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – This Valentine’s Day, couples can treat themselves to an unforgettable experience at two of Thailand’s most romantic destinations: Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi. With their exclusive Valentine’s offers, these stunning beachfront resorts promise to deliver the ultimate romantic getaway. Amari Phuket: Nestled on the serene shores of Patong Beach, Amari Phuket offers couples an enchanting escape to the tropics. With its prime location overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, the resort combines luxury with tranquillity. Guests can choose from a variety of elegantly designed rooms and suites, such as the Superior Balcony Room or the Club One Bedroom Suite Ocean View Balcony, all offering breathtaking views and modern comforts. Amari Phuket boasts exceptional dining venues such as their exclusive TreePods, offering an unparalleled dining experience high among the treetops, La Gritta, serving authentic Italian cuisine, and Rim Talay, which offers international and Asian dishes with panoramic sea views. For those seeking a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere, Samutr Bar and The Jetty provide the perfect settings for sunset cocktails and romantic stargazing dinners. For adventurous couples, the resort is ideally located near Phuket’s popular attractions, including Jungceylon Shopping Mall, Central Patong, and the vibrant Phuket Town. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, scuba diving, and jet skiing directly from the property. To make this Valentine’s Day even more special, Amari Phuket presents three exclusive dining experiences on 14 February 2025, from 18:00 – 22:00: Valentine’s Day Dinner at the Treepod Valentine Spread at Rim Talay Valentine’s Day – L’amore in Spiaggia Amari Vogue Krabi: Sunset Beach Romance Located on the pristine Tubkaek Beach, Amari Vogue Krabi is a haven of tranquillity and elegance. This 5-star resort is renowned for its contemporary Thai-style architecture, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern comforts. Guests are welcomed into a serene setting with lush tropical gardens, stunning Andaman Sea views, and a range of luxurious accommodation options, from Deluxe Rooms with private balconies to family-friendly villas with private plunge pools. The resort’s signature restaurant, Marco’s Restaurant & Bar, offers a relaxed beachfront dining experience with Pan-Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, complemented by creative cocktails and live music on selected evenings. For a taste of authentic Thai flavours, Lotus Restaurant provides a rich menu in a beautifully decorated setting. Guests can also enjoy bespoke experiences like the Sunset Beach Picnic, where they can unwind on the soft sands of Tubkaek Beach with wine, canapés, and the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. On 14 February 2025, Amari Vogue Krabi presents two exclusive dining experiences: 1. Romantic Candlelight Dinner Couples can celebrate their love with an exquisite four-course menu in the romantic candlelight setting of Marco’s Restaurant. Price: THB 3,499++ per couple 2. Sundown Beach Romance Couples can enjoy a curated five-course menu at a romantic beachside candlelit dinner, featuring breathtaking limestone views. Complimentary welcome bubbles included. Price: THB 5,499++ per couple Beyond dining, the resort offers a range of activities, including rejuvenating treatments at Chaonang Spa, three swimming pools, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Guests can also embark on island-hopping adventures to iconic locations like Hong Island, just 10 minutes away by longtail boat, or explore Krabi’s lively town centre, a 40-minute drive from the resort. Why Choose Amari for Valentine’s Day? Amari Phuket and Amari Vogue Krabi offer more than just a holiday – they create moments to treasure forever. Whether it’s a secluded dining experience in a treetop pod, a candlelit dinner by the sea, or indulgent spa treatments, every detail is designed to celebrate love in the most enchanting settings. For more information or to book your romantic getaway, visit www.amari.com. 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

Wildberries Empowers Women in Tech in Kyrgyzstan

MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – Wildberries, one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Eurasia, has become an official partner of Women in Tech Kyrgyzstan, part of a global community dedicated to empowering women in technology and reducing gender inequality. Wildberries experts shared their experience in training young women for digital professions at the launch of the Kyrgyzstan Chapter of Women in Tech, which took place at the American Institute of Central Asia in Bishkek on 2 February. As part of its Girls in IT initiative, Wildberries last year trained 30 young women from low-income families across seven regions of Kyrgyzstan in marketplace design. Participants learned to use the Figma interface design tool, develop product cards for the online marketplace and design one-page websites. The two-month online course was led by top design and content creation experts from Wildberries and the company’s WH School. “We strive to ensure that women in Kyrgyzstan have access to modern e-commerce technologies. The Girls in IT project is not just about education—it’s an opportunity to apply knowledge in practice,” said Ksenia Shkolnikova, head of Wildberries in Kyrgyzstan. The initiative was supported by the First Lady’s Foundation of Kyrgyzstan, the country’s Ministry of Education and Science, and Kyrgyz Post. Eight of the top-performing participants were offered internships with Kyrgyz sellers on the Wildberries marketplace. The pilot project in Kyrgyzstan sets the stage for expanding the Girls in IT initiative to other countries where Wildberries operates. The project is planned to launch in Belarus, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in 2025. Founded by the entrepreneur Tatyana Kim while she was on maternity leave, Wildberries actively supports the advancement of women in tech professions and educates aspiring entrepreneurs from all walks of life. The company offers an online educational program for marketplace sellers, PRO WB, which has held 650 webinars that engaged 80,000 sellers across eight countries over the past six months. Hashtag: #wildberries The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Wildberries Established in 2004 in Russia, Wildberries is a leading e-commerce platform operating in Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Uzbekistan, while also partnering with sellers in China. Wildberries provides a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure to support customers and sellers, along with a developed logistics network spanning more than 130 facilities and 55,000 pick-up points across its markets. As of 2024, Wildberries serves over 75 million customers and processes more than 20 million orders per day.

Media OutReach

Wildberries Empowers Women in Tech in Kyrgyzstan

MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – Wildberries, one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Eurasia, has become an official partner of Women in Tech Kyrgyzstan, part of a global community dedicated to empowering women in technology and reducing gender inequality. Wildberries experts shared their experience in training young women for digital professions at the launch of the Kyrgyzstan Chapter of Women in Tech, which took place at the American Institute of Central Asia in Bishkek on 2 February. As part of its Girls in IT initiative, Wildberries last year trained 30 young women from low-income families across seven regions of Kyrgyzstan in marketplace design. Participants learned to use the Figma interface design tool, develop product cards for the online marketplace and design one-page websites. The two-month online course was led by top design and content creation experts from Wildberries and the company’s WH School. “We strive to ensure that women in Kyrgyzstan have access to modern e-commerce technologies. The Girls in IT project is not just about education—it’s an opportunity to apply knowledge in practice,” said Ksenia Shkolnikova, head of Wildberries in Kyrgyzstan. The initiative was supported by the First Lady’s Foundation of Kyrgyzstan, the country’s Ministry of Education and Science, and Kyrgyz Post. Eight of the top-performing participants were offered internships with Kyrgyz sellers on the Wildberries marketplace. The pilot project in Kyrgyzstan sets the stage for expanding the Girls in IT initiative to other countries where Wildberries operates. The project is planned to launch in Belarus, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in 2025. Founded by the entrepreneur Tatyana Kim while she was on maternity leave, Wildberries actively supports the advancement of women in tech professions and educates aspiring entrepreneurs from all walks of life. The company offers an online educational program for marketplace sellers, PRO WB, which has held 650 webinars that engaged 80,000 sellers across eight countries over the past six months. Hashtag: #wildberries The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Wildberries Established in 2004 in Russia, Wildberries is a leading e-commerce platform operating in Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Uzbekistan, while also partnering with sellers in China. Wildberries provides a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure to support customers and sellers, along with a developed logistics network spanning more than 130 facilities and 55,000 pick-up points across its markets. As of 2024, Wildberries serves over 75 million customers and processes more than 20 million orders per day.

Media OutReach

Unleash Your Children’s Potential: iCare Eyecare’s Solutions Enhance Learning and Sports Engagement

iCare Eyecare’s Mission: Keep your eyes, sharpen your edge, and promote your wellness HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – With the rise of digital media, screen devices have become an integral part of everybody’s life, and e-learning is an inevitable trend in school. However, this has posed unprecedented challenges to the visual health of everyone, especially children. According to a recent study by The Chinese University of Hong Kong, the prevalence of myopia among children in Hong Kong has reached a record high. Notably, after the pandemic, the myopia rate among six-year-olds surged from 13.9% pre-pandemic to 25%, nearly doubling. This trend has raised widespread concerns as myopia is now considered a multifaceted condition that significantly impacts eye health in the long run. In addition to myopia, children may also suffer from other refractive errors (such as hyperopia and astigmatism), strabismus, and various levels of dynamic visual impairments, such as convergence insufficiency (CI). These eye conditions can significantly hamper children’s reading, learning, concentration, and sports performance, potentially affecting their overall development. Parents must be aware of these issues and seek professional analysis to ensure their child’s vision is not a barrier to their success. Experience analysis combined with advanced equipment such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and automated eye movement analysis systems Studies in the United States indicate that 1 in 4 children experiences some form of visual impairment, which can sometimes be misdiagnosed as neurodevelopmental disorders such as dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or other learning disabilities. Misdiagnosis, as such, can severely impact a child’s academic and motor development. In Hong Kong, families often lack awareness of the connection between vision problems and learning or motor skills. Children with visual impairments may display short attention spans, skip lines when reading, have difficulty retaining information, experience discomfort or fatigue, or even avoid reading altogether, behaviors resembling ADHD. Moreover, convergence insufficiency (CI) occurs more frequently among ADHD patients than in the general population. Apart from academic hardship, various vision disabilities can also lead to poor depth perception, meager eye tracking proficiency, and below-par visual signal brain processing, collectively translating to low performance in sports such as ball games. This underlines the urgent need for parents to be aware of these issues and seek professional analysis to ensure their child’s vision is not a barrier to their success. Dynamic and Sports Vision Training to Sharpen Your Edge To improve children’s overall visual function, iCare Eyecare offers evidence-based myopia management services, customized orthokeratology (OK lenses) treatments, unique dynamic and sports vision analysis and training programs. These services aim to promote children’s long-term eye health, improve overall visual function, and bolster their learning and athletic performance. At iCare Eyecare, our services are directed by Dr. Marco, Ph.D., a visiting lecturer at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Optometry, and delivered by his professional team. With years of experience and a deep understanding of vision science, Dr. Marco and his team employ diverse advanced technologies, such as Optical Coherent Tomography (OCT), non-invasive optical ocular biometry, corneal topography, and automated eye movement analysis systems.Their expertise, combined with state-of-the-art technologies, enables unmatched comprehensive optometric and visual function assessments, creating personalized eye care plans and professionally tailored vision training recommendations for every child. Maintaining good visual health and dynamic vision abilities is crucial in today’s ever-changing world. For instance, in emergencies, well-developed visual skills can help individuals anticipate and react to situations more quickly, potentially saving lives! Both static and dynamic visual skills are essential in daily life, whether reading or participating in sports like football or basketball. With scientific analysis, individuals can now better understand their sports vision capabilities. Most importantly, customized and effective training can be carried out to sharpen their edge in case of a flaw. This knowledge empowers parents to take proactive steps to ensure their child’s visual health is not overlooked. iCare Eyecare Professional Services Include: 1. Myopia Management for Children: Professional advice and evidence-based practice to control myopia progression. 2. Dynamic and Sports Vision Analysis and Training: Comprehensive assessments and specific training to enhance visual skills. 3. Personalized Eyeglasses and Contact Lens Customization: Tailored solutions to optimize visual outcome. Founder of iCare Eyecare Dr. Marco Dr. Marco, the founder of iCare Eyecare, is a highly experienced registered optometrist (Part I) with a strong background in clinical practice and basic science research. He graduated with first-class honors from the School of Optometry at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and holds a Ph.D. in Vision Science, making him a physiologist. Dr. Marco previously served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City (specializing in dry eye disease and cataracts) and as a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong. He also enjoys teaching and is a visiting lecturer in myopia science at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Optometry and HKU SPACE. The establishment of iCare Eyecare stems from Dr. Marco’s vision to expand the role of optometrists as the first line of defense for the eye and overall health. His “family optometrist” concept aims to protect every family member’s health. To promote public awareness, Dr. Marco is an expert contributor to the popular parenting media Oh!爸媽, sharing valuable eye care tips. His dedication to sports and vision have led him to join the International Sports Vision Association (ISVA) and earn a professional diploma in sports nutrition from the Barcelona Innovation Hub (BIHUB). By integrating cutting-edge vision science and nutrition, Dr. Marco helps students and athletes improve their focus, overall vision abilities, academic performance, and athletic achievements. Hashtag: #iCare #iCareEyecare The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About iCare Eyecare Founded in 2017, iCare Eyecare’s vision is to provide Hong Kong residents with the highest-quality primary optometric eyecare. Their detail-oriented services go beyond meeting your visual needs but committed to keeping your eyes, sharpening your edge, and promoting your wellness! Address:Suite 1317, 13/F, Ocean Centre, Harbour City, 5 Canton

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U.S.-China Trade War Threatens to Shrink U.S. Crude Exports in 2025

HOUSTON: Rising trade tensions between the United States and China could lead to a decline in U.S. crude oil exports in 2025—the first drop since the pandemic—by restricting access to the Chinese market, analysts warn. This potential setback contrasts with President Donald Trump’s push to maximize U.S. oil and gas production. Since the 2015 repeal of a 40-year federal ban on crude exports, the U.S. has become the world’s third-largest exporter, trailing only Saudi Arabia and Russia. While exports grew marginally in 2024, the last recorded decline was in 2021, when the COVID-19 outbreak slashed global energy demand. “International demand for U.S. crude may be peaking, and the trade war could accelerate that shift,” said Matt Smith, an analyst at Kpler. Rohit Rathod, a senior analyst at ship-tracking firm Vortexa, predicts total U.S. crude exports will fall to 3.6 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, down from 3.8 million bpd in 2024, as Chinese tariffs reduce demand for American oil. China’s Role in U.S. Oil Exports China currently imports about 166,000 bpd of U.S. crude—roughly 5% of total U.S. oil exports. However, with Beijing imposing retaliatory tariffs, some of these shipments could stay in the U.S. or be redirected to other buyers. The affected volumes will likely consist of medium-density, high-sulfur crude, such as Mars and Southern Green Canyon, which accounted for about 48% of U.S. crude exports to China last year. These medium-sour grades are well-suited for U.S. refineries and could be absorbed domestically, especially if Washington follows through on threats to impose tariffs on Canadian and Mexican oil. “Medium sours are welcome barrels in the U.S. Gulf Coast. Refiners need it,” Rathod said. Lighter, low-sulfur crude—such as West Texas Intermediate (WTI)—which makes up the rest of U.S. exports to China, could find alternative buyers in Europe and India at competitive prices, analysts suggest. Shifts in Export Logistics and Market Response The Louisiana Offshore Oil Port handled nearly half of all U.S. crude shipments to China last year, according to Kpler. Another 25% came from Enbridge’s Ingleside facility in Texas, though Enbridge’s senior vice president, Phil Anderson, downplayed the impact, noting that China historically accounted for less than 15% of its shipments. “The market for light crude is very liquid globally,” Anderson said. Occidental Petroleum, one of the top suppliers of U.S. crude to China, shipped at least 13 cargoes of WTI Midland to China in 2024, per Kpler data. The company has yet to comment on the potential impact of tariffs. China’s Strategic Oil Shift For China, the effect of reduced U.S. oil imports is expected to be minimal. In 2024, U.S. crude made up just 1.7% of China’s total oil imports, down from 2.5% in 2023, amounting to approximately $6 billion in trade, according to Chinese customs data. Instead, China has been ramping up purchases from other sources. Imports from Canada rose by 30% last year to over 500,000 bpd, bolstered by the expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline. Meanwhile, China has increasingly turned to discounted Russian and Iranian crude, further diminishing its reliance on U.S. oil.-REUTERS

Media OutReach

Caraz & Parklon BB Playpen Series Now Available at 【Doremi3babies】

Hong Kong’s Professional Baby Products Store 【Doremi3babies】 Introduces Caraz & Parklon BB Playpen Series HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2025 -【Doremi3babies】 has recently announced the launch of the Caraz & Parklon BB playpen series. As two of the most popular baby brands in South Korea, Caraz & Parklon are known for their practicality and safety, catering to the diverse needs of modern families and providing local parents with comprehensive childcare solutions. Now available at 【Doremi3babies】, the Caraz & Parklon BB playpen series offers parents a high-quality, safe, and flexible new option for baby care. Designed to create a dedicated activity space for babies, these products integrate innovative features with international safety standards, helping parents easily manage daily childcare needs with confidence. Features of Caraz & Parklon BB Playpen International Safety Certification: Certified by KC, CE, and other international safety standards, ensuring quality and reliability. Stable & Minimalist Design: Easy and quick to install, equipped with a non-slip base for stable and durable use, suitable for various home environments. Flexible Adjustment: The playpen size and shape can be freely adjusted according to home space needs, making it adaptable to different scenarios. Eco-Friendly & Non-Toxic Materials: Made with baby-safe, eco-friendly, and non-toxic materials, giving parents peace of mind. Designed for modern families, this series helps create a dedicated activity space for babies while allowing parents to manage their daily routines with ease. Caraz & Parklon have been highly popular among parents in South Korea, and their official launch at 【Doremi3babies】 brings more high-quality childcare product choices to local families. Exclusive New Member Shopping Offer To celebrate the official launch of the Caraz & Parklon BB playpen series at 【Doremi3babies】, a special shopping discount is available for new members. Starting today, customers who register as members and make their first purchase of HKD 600 or more will enjoy a 10% discount on their entire order. More Information For more product details and promotional activities, visit the 【Doremi3babies】 Facebook page (search for “Doremi3babies”) or contact the customer service team for further inquiries. Hashtag: #Doremi3babies The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Caraz & Parklon Caraz & Parklon are well-known South Korean baby brands dedicated to designing children’s products that meet international safety standards. Recognized for their high quality, flexibility, and safety, their BB playpen series integrates innovative design with practical functionality, making them a top choice for families worldwide. About 【Doremi3babies】 Founded in 2017, 【Doremi3babies】 is a Hong Kong-based specialty store focusing on baby and toddler products. The store is committed to selecting high-quality, safe, and practical products, mainly from top Korean and Japanese brands. Each product is personally tested by the store owner and their family to ensure it meets strict safety and functionality standards. Over the years, 【Doremi3babies】 has gained the trust and support of local families, accumulating over 10,000 Facebook followers. https://www.doremi3babies.store/

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