Media OutReach

Enabling customers to make better informed sustainability and business decisions 14 environmental data attributes now covering 70% of product turnover HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has launched its Environmental Data Program. This initiative, which builds on the legacy Green Premium label, provides customers with unique access to information on the environmental impact of its products, enabling them to make better informed, data-based decisions and meet evolving regulatory requirements with confidence. Schneider Electric has frequently been recognized as a leader in sustainability—including being named the world’s most sustainable company by Time Magazine and Statista in 2024 and by Corporate Knights for the second time in January 2025. It is this commitment to environmental leadership and customers’ growing demand for transparency that has led to the launch of this program. By providing critical information, like carbon footprint, energy efficiency, packaging and recycled content, Schneider Electric helps customers make choices that align with their sustainability goals, enabling them to better track, understand, and reduce their own environmental impact. Schneider Electric now shares information on 14 environmental data attributes up from the 5 previously disclosed by the company’s legacy Green Premium Label, offering a more comprehensive understanding of a product’s environmental impact. Those 14 attributes are available online for 110,000 commercial references. Schneider Electric aims to provide the same coverage for 155,000 commercial references by the end of the year, covering 80% of product turnover – up from 70% today. With 2024 officially recorded as the hottest year on the planet, the urgency for accelerated progress on environment and climate action has never been more apparent. At the same time, studies show that the global economy is only 7.2% circular. Regulatory evolutions over the past years (such as the draft EU Green Claims Directive) have been raising the bar for transparency and accountability. The data provided by the Environmental Data Program will make it easy for customers to use these metrics for both business, as well as compliance and reporting purposes. Environmental data transparency is fundamental to both decarbonization and competitiveness, two goals that will define the times ahead. Ultimately, it’s about powering choices thanks to better, clearer, and more reliable data. Chris Leong, Schneider Electric’s Chief Sustainability Officer, explains: “With over 15 years of experience in environmental product data, we’ve built a legacy of trust and transparency. Now, with the Environmental Data Program, we’re setting a new benchmark for environmental data accessibility and performance. We remain committed to helping our customers and partners across the industry to continue making informed, data-based, and responsible decisions with transparency at the core to use better, use longer, use again.” Céline Coulibre-Duménil, Chief Sustainability Officer at Rexel, global leader in the distribution of electrical supplies, values the Environmental Data Program: “Giving customers access to more transparent and factual product data to help them make informed decisions on the environmental impact of their choices is a must. We support Schneider Electric’s ambition to influence the industry towards more environmental product transparency.” Related resources Environmental Data Program webpage The foundational power of better, clearer, and trusted data Hashtag: #Sustainability #EnvironmentalData #DataTransparency https://www.se.com/hk/en/https://www.linkedin.com/company/schneider-electrichttps://x.com/SchneiderElechttps://www.facebook.com/SchneiderElectric?brandloc=DISABLEhttps://www.instagram.com/schneiderelectric/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Schneider Electric Schneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On. Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency. We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers. We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all. www.se.com/hk Discover the newest perspectives shaping sustainability, electricity 4.0, and next-generation automation on Schneider Electric Insights.

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – In celebration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco, Galaxy Macau™ proudly presents the “Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau“. On May 21. This prestigious evening of classical music celebrates the deepening friendship between China and Monaco over the years with musical charm, further promoting exchanges and cooperation in cultural and other fields between Macau and Monaco, and contributing to establishing Macau as a platform for world-class cultural exchanges. Zhang Zhang, the concertmaster and violinist, is one of the most influential Chinese artists in Western mainstream media today. She was invited by the Monaco royal family to perform for the leaders of China and Monaco during their high-level visit. The concert features the internationally acclaimed Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, bringing together world-class musicians from Monaco and France under the distinguished direction of Zhang Zhang, offering the audience a magnificent musical feast. The Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra traces its origins to the Monaco Principality String Quartet, founded in 2001 as an ensemble dedicated to supporting cultural diplomacy initiatives for the Principality of Monaco. Over the years, the ensemble has accompanied ambassadors of the Principality on musical missions around the globe. Zhang Zhang, is one of the most influential artists in Western mainstream media today. The first Chinese musician of the Monte Carlo philharmonic, she was invited by HSH Prince Albert II to perform for leaders of China and Monaco during the 2019 state visit. An award winning author and public personality, she has published dozens of articles for major French newspapers including Figaro, Le Point, Le Droit de Vivre. A social entrepreneur pioneering in musical philanthropy, she is also the president of the Skäl International Monaco tourism association, and the concertmaster of the Royal Opera of Versailles In 2007, Zhang Zhang founded the non-governmental organization “Zhangomusiq,” enabling concerts to make immediate and tangible contributions to humanitarian, ecological, and educational projects around the world. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco, she leads the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra on a tour to China, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Monaco. The Galaxy Music Gala features an exceptional lineup of internationally renowned maestros, including conductor and guitarist Pablo Márquez and Andrea Cesari, principal horn of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. Pablo Márquez, celebrated as one of today’s most accomplished musicians, has had a remarkable career as both a guitarist and conductor, performing in prestigious venues and collaborating with many renowned orchestras in over 40 countries. Andrea Cesari, Horn Soloist, earned the title at the Audimozart! in the Mozart International Competition in 2008 for his exceptional interpretation of Mozart’s concertos, gaining widespread recognition. The Argentinean/French conductor and guitarist Pablo Márquez is regarded as one of the most accomplished musicians of our time. The evening’s exquisite program will showcase several classic works, including Gordon Jacob’s Horn Concerto, performed by Andrea Cesari; Tchaikovsky’s beloved Serenade for Strings; and an Asia Premiere performance of Manuel de Falla’s Three Dances, specially arranged for guitar and string orchestra, featuring Pablo Márquez. This unique arrangement promises to offer a fresh and enriching musical experience. Andrea Cesari, Horn Soloist, earned the title at the Audimozart! in the Mozart International Competition in 2008 for his exceptional interpretation of Mozart’s concertos, gaining widespread recognition. With a one night only performance, the melodies of the Mediterranean will resonate throughout Macau. This masterful evening of music and cross-cultural exchange will provide the audience with an extraordinary journey that celebrates the friendship between China and Monaco. Galaxy Macau, a world-class luxury integrated resort, continues to host premier international cultural and artistic events. Following performances by legendary tenor Plácido Domingo, renowned pianist Lang Lang, and the beloved tenor Andrea Bocelli, Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau takes the stage as yet another remarkable musical celebration that solidifies Macau’s development as a “City of Performing Arts,” further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant international metropolis. Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau Date: May 21, 2025 Time: 8:00pm Venue: Galaxy Auditorium at Galaxy International Convention Center Combining musical virtuosity, timeless melodies and state-of-the-art audio technology, the event will take place at Galaxy International Convention Center on May 21, 2025. Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau and Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate. As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional

Industry pioneer redefines what a banking platform is in the era of AI, and delivers both the technology and talent to drive remarkable growth AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Today, Backbase announces a major industry shift: the launch of the world’s first AI-powered Banking Platform, following the launch of its Intelligence Fabric in September 2024. Momentum accelerates with the release of its next-generation platform, purpose-built to accelerate growth and efficiency in banking by unifying two mission-critical domains: customer servicing and digital sales. This launch marks the next phase of Backbase’s bold vision: putting bankers at the forefront of the AI revolution, fully equipped to drive sustainable, profitable growth. Built for unified sales and servicing In today’s competitive landscape, banks can no longer afford to rely on passive digital channels and reactive workflows. Backbase’s AI-powered Banking Platform enables banks to: Transform customer engagement with AI-powered self-service and real-time support Hardwire AI into daily operations to maximize employee productivity and smarter decision-making Streamline and scale sales through intelligent activation and end-to-end automation Expand revenue with AI-driven up- and cross-sell journeys that deepen customer relationships. “Banks don’t need more pilots – they need outcomes,” said Jouk Pleiter, CEO & Founder of Backbase. “With our AI-powered Banking Platform, we’re going all-in on the AI opportunity and empower banks to boost productivity, automate intelligently, and unlock growth faster than ever.” Why now? The industry is at a tipping point. While fintechs surge ahead, many banks are still trapped by legacy tech and fragmented data — unable to fully seize the AI opportunity. The last decade delivered basic digital channels. The next will be owned by banks that master AI-powered growth orchestration: acquiring, activating, expanding, and retaining customers at scale. Powered by the Intelligence Fabric At the heart of the platform is the Intelligence Fabric — a unified data foundation that turns behavioral signals, transactional data, and operational insights into real-time, actionable intelligence. A breakthrough addition is Agentic AI: modular, intelligent agents purpose-built for banking. Operating safely within guardrails, these agents seamlessly embed into service and sales journeys—automating tasks, guiding next-best actions, and boosting productivity across the front and back office. Trusted and secure by design Built on a trusted AI foundation, the platform ensures every decision, recommendation, and action is transparent, secure, and auditable. Agents are developed, deployed, and governed within a tightly controlled environment, enabling banks to confidently scale while upholding the highest standards of compliance, risk, and operational integrity. Closing the talent gap with the AI Factory AI adoption demands new expertise — and Backbase delivers it through the AI Factory: an embedded delivery model designed to bridge the industry’s AI skills gap. By integrating Backbase’s AI experts directly into their teams, banks can rapidly co-create high-impact use cases and turn innovation into execution with speed and confidence. “This isn’t proof-of-concept AI. This is a packaged, production-ready operating model to move banks from experimentation to execution, fast” said Jouk Pleiter, CEO & Founder at Backbase. “AI waits for no bank. It’s not a wait-and-see – it’s here, and it’s rewriting the rules of the industry. The time to act is now.” Available now The AI-powered Banking Platform is already delivering breakthrough efficiency and unlocking new growth for early adopters. As of today, it’s officially live and globally available—ready to transform how banks operate at scale. Hashtag: #Backbase #digitalbanking #AIPoweredBanking #ArtificialIntelligence #retailbanking #omnichannelbanking #businessbanking #smebanking #corporatebanking https://www.backbase.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/backbase/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Backbase Backbase is on a mission to put bankers back in the driver’s seat — fully equipped to lead the AI revolution and unlock remarkable growth and efficiency. At the heart of this mission is the world’s first AI-powered Banking Platform, unifying all servicing and sales journeys into an integrated suite. With Backbase, banks modernize their operations across every line of business — from Retail and SME to Commercial, Private Banking, and Wealth Management. Recognized as a category leader by Forrester, Gartner, Celent, and IDC, Backbase powers the digital and AI transformations of over 150 financial institutions worldwide. See some of their stories here. Founded in 2003 in Amsterdam, Backbase is a global private fintech company with regional headquarters in Atlanta and Singapore, and offices across London, Sydney, Toronto, Dubai, Kraków, Cardiff, Hyderabad, and Mexico City. Learn more at www.backbase.com.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Gold has kept on rising almost uninterruptedly for most of 2025, recording a series of new all-time highs. Since October 2022, the metal’s price has almost doubled, having risen by more than 25% in 2025 alone, hitting a fresh all-time high of $3,500 per ounce on April 22. A $4,000 price level, once dismissed as fantasy, is now openly being discussed on trading floors across the globe. Octa Broker examines the forces behind gold’s remarkable rally — and what might come next. Geopolitical Tensions as the Main Catalyst The global environment in 2025 is anything but peaceful. The wars in the Middle East and Eastern Europe remain, and their long-term resolution still seems to be out of reach. The U.S.–China relations have taken a sharp downward turn. The latest installment of hostilities is being acted out in tariffs: the Trump administration has resumed a trade war footing, with China retaliating by raising tariffs on U.S. goods to 125% from 84%. Recently, the USA admitted that the tariffs for China could be increased up to 245%. This intensifying global uncertainty has propelled investors toward safe-haven assets, and none are more tried-and-tested than gold. As global trade frays and economic growth outlooks dim, gold’s role as a hedge becomes more pronounced. Monetary Policy Expectations and Rate Cut Bets Historically, gold tends to perform better when the interest rates are low. The current U.S. monetary policy outlook suggests a favourable environment for the precious metal. In response to weakening economic signals, the Federal Reserve (Fed) is widely expected to cut interest rates at least twice in 2025. The latest Labour Department data revealed a surprise drop in U.S. consumer prices in March, bolstering expectations of a looser policy stance by mid-year. Market participants now factor in a roughly 30% chance of a full percentage point cut by December. However, with inflation potentially resurging due to tariffs, the Fed could be forced to reverse course. Such a move might derail gold’s momentum. Still, for now, lower rates make non-yielding assets like gold more attractive, creating the potential for further price gains. Weak Dollar Boosts Gold’s Appeal The U.S. dollar index recently recorded its sharpest decline since 2022, hitting new yearly lows. As Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains: ‘A weaker greenback typically supports gold by making it more affordable for holders of other currencies. This trend, together with the increasing uncertainty, has encouraged strong demand, further fuelling the rally’. Indeed, the increasing demand has been evident since the beginning of the year. In the middle of April, gold fund net inflows hit a record $80 billion year-to-date, according to BofA Global Research. Central Bank Buying and De-Dollarisation Another bullish factor for gold is the rise in structural physical demand — especially, when it comes to global central banks that increase their gold reserves at an aggressive pace. People’s Bank of China raised its gold holdings to a record level in Q1 2025, underscoring the metal’s strategic importance. This structural demand aligns with the broader BRICS-led push for de-dollarisation. Diversifying away from U.S. Treasuries and the dollar, several countries are turning to gold as a reliable store of value — bolstering long-term demand fundamentals. ETF Flows Reflect Retail and Institutional Demand The growing optimism among investors regarding gold is also evident in exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Gold-backed ETFs experienced significant inflows in March 2025, particularly in North America. These flows indicate robust interest from both retail investors and institutional players, further tightening the market. Key Risks to the $4,000 Scenario Despite the underlying bullish environment, gold may fall short of the $4,000 target and, instead, experience a significant downward correction due to several factors: Inflation Surprise and Rate Reversal. If tariffs and supply disruptions reignite inflation, central banks may be forced to abandon dovish policies. A Fed reversal to a tightening bias could strengthen the dollar and exert a downward pressure on gold prices — potentially disrupting the bullish narrative. Geopolitical Stabilisation. A de-escalation of global tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China or in Eastern Europe, could sharply reduce safe-haven demand. While this is not the base case for 2025, it remains a wildcard risk that traders must consider. Indeed, XAUUSD has already pulled back from its recent highs after the U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at lower tariffs for China. Overbought Technical Conditions. Gold’s sharp rally raises the likelihood of corrective pullbacks. If momentum slows, profit-taking could spark a swift and dramatic sell-off. As with any parabolic move, volatility is inevitable: the price tends to experience short-term downtrends before new all-time-highs (ATH). Traders with short-term strategies should beware of such price drops and practice risk management: avoid large trading sums, apply stop-loss positions, and diversify their portfolio. $4,000: Between Fantasy and Forecast A convergence of macroeconomic, structural, and technical factors is pushing gold into uncharted territory. With macroeconomic uncertainty, rate cut expectations, geopolitical tensions, and central bank demand all aligned in support, the $4,000 level is no longer just a theoretical ceiling — it is a plausible next target. Still, the path is unlikely to be smooth. Corrections, sentiment shifts, and external shocks may temper the pace of the rally. However, for long-term holders, the thesis remains compelling. ___ Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to engage in any investment activity. It does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation, or individual needs. Any action you take based on this content is at your sole discretion and risk. Octa and its affiliates accept no liability for any losses or consequences resulting from reliance on this material. Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Availability of products and services may vary by jurisdiction.

Why Owning Microsoft 365 Isn’t Enough Anymore — Oryon Academy Teaches Businesses to Master It SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Oryon.net, the largest Singapore web hosting provider and a leading Microsoft Solutions Partner, is proud to announce the launch of Oryon Academy — a dedicated learning platform designed to help Microsoft 365 Business customers unlock the full potential of their digital tools.​ With over 25 years of experience supporting SMEs, government agencies, and enterprises, Oryon.net has long been recognized for its outstanding 24/7 support, seamless onboarding, and competitive pricing. The introduction of Oryon Academy marks a significant step forward in empowering clients to maximize their Microsoft 365 investment through structured, hands-on training. “Our mission has always been to simplify technology for businesses,” said Ryan Chua, Managing Director at Oryon.net. “With Oryon Academy, we’re taking that commitment further — equipping our clients with the knowledge and confidence to leverage Microsoft 365 and Office 365 ‘s capabilities fully.”​ Oryon Academy complements Oryon.net ‘s comprehensive Microsoft 365 offerings, which include free email migration, remote desktop assistance, and a price-match guarantee. As a Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) Cyber Essentials Certified provider, Oryon.net ensures that clients receive secure, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.​ Hashtag: #oryonnetworks #microsoft365 https://oryon.net/https://www.linkedin.com/company/oryon-networks-pte-ltd/https://www.facebook.com/oryon.asia/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Oryon Networks Pte Ltd At Oryon.net, we specialize in delivering top-tier Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Office 365 solutions to businesses of all sizes. As a trusted Microsoft Solutions Partner in Singapore, we offer a comprehensive range of Microsoft 365 subscription and Office 365 subscription plans tailored to your unique business needs. Our portfolio includes Microsoft 365 Business Basic, Microsoft 365 Business Standard, and Microsoft 365 Business Premium — ensuring every customer has the right tools for growth, collaboration, and productivity. We understand that choosing the right Microsoft 365 plan can be overwhelming. That’s why Oryon.net is committed to helping businesses navigate Microsoft 365 Business options easily. Our competitive Microsoft 365 price packages are designed to deliver maximum value without compromising on quality. In addition to core services, we provide expert guidance on essential applications like Outlook 365 — helping businesses seamlessly manage communication and scheduling — and the full suite of Microsoft Office 365 tools that power everyday operations. With over 25 years of experience serving SMEs, enterprises, and government agencies, Oryon.net has earned a reputation for reliable support, seamless onboarding, and a customer-first approach. Whether you’re upgrading your existing 365 setup or starting fresh, trust Oryon.net to simplify and enhance your Microsoft 365 journey.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) continues to attract top talent from Vietnam, as demonstrated by Ryan Le Minh Khue, a Year 3 student in the Integrated Bachelor of Business Administration (IBBAC) Programme. Coming from the prestigious Nguyen Hue High School for the Gifted in Hanoi, Ryan represents a growing trend of Vietnamese students choosing Hong Kong for their tertiary education. His decision to study at CUHK was influenced by the university’s strong academic reputation and the generous scholarship opportunities offered by the government, university, and departments. Ryan addresses an audience of Vietnamese high school students and parents at the CUHK Admission Caravan in Hanoi, sharing insights about academic life and opportunities at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Academic Excellence and Flexibility “When I was exploring my options, CUHK’s IBBAC programme stood out because of its flexible structure with nine concentrations,” says Ryan. “This allowed me to explore different business fields before specialising, which was exactly what I needed.” The programme’s comprehensive curriculum has enabled Ryan to discover his interests while building a strong foundation in business studies. The well-designed curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for real-world challenges in the business sector. Leadership and Professional Development Beyond academics, Ryan has embraced campus life through various leadership roles. As a Student Ambassador, he actively promotes CUHK to prospective Vietnamese students and shares his experiences with the growing Vietnamese community. His involvement as Master of Ceremonies at Vietnam Consulate General events has enhanced his public speaking skills and cultural engagement. Through CUHK’s corporate connections, Ryan has secured valuable internships at KPMG Vietnam and Guotai Junan Securities Corporation, gaining first-hand experience in the finance industry and building a strong professional network. Ryan shares his international student experience during the inaugural International Counsellor Fly-In Programme 2024, a joint initiative by CUHK and HKBU. Growing Vietnamese Community The number of Vietnamese students at CUHK has grown significantly, from just two students from Ryan’s high school to approximately twenty today. “CUHK offers premium education quality in a supportive environment,” Ryan explains. “The well-designed curriculum, combined with Hong Kong’s position as a global financial hub and its proximity to Vietnam, makes it an increasingly attractive choice for Vietnamese students.” The university’s green campus environment and strong support system have helped international students adapt seamlessly to life in Hong Kong. Future Aspirations Ryan plans to pursue a master’s degree in Finance at CUHK after graduation, building upon the strong foundation he has established. His journey highlights CUHK’s commitment to nurturing international talent and preparing students for successful global careers through academic excellence and practical industry exposure. As an emerging leader in his field, Ryan’s success story serves as an inspiration for future Vietnamese students considering CUHK as their destination for higher education. Hashtag: #CUHK The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About CUHK Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) stands as a leading comprehensive research university, consistently ranked among Asia’s top educational institutions.

New data shows sharp contraction in loan sizes, rising business cessations, and shifting lender dynamics as SMEs struggle with tighter financing conditions. SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Singapore’s SMEs battled tighter financing conditions in 2024, with average borrowing costs rising to 8.47% per annum — the highest in recent years, even as loan sizes shrank and access to larger financing amounts dried up, according to Linkflow Capital’s latest SME Financing Accessibility Survey. Drawing on data from over 2,216 unique users on its SME loan comparison platform, Linkflow Capital’s research reveals a stark financing environment for SMEs: The survey also captured shifts among lenders. While local banks maintained the largest share (59%) of loan origination within Linkflow Capital’s platform, foreign banks have significantly increased their share to 26% (up from 19%). Digital banks saw their loan share decrease more than half to 8% of loan originations (down from 17% in 2023). Beyond higher costs, SMEs encountered tighter credit access, particularly for substantial funding needs. Linkflow Capital’s data showed a sharp decline in approvals for loans above S$300,000. These larger brackets constituted only 3% of approved loans in 2024, down from 10% in 2023. Notably, approvals for loans exceeding S$500,000 ceased entirely in the surveyed data for 2024. “SMEs were caught in a difficult bind in 2024 – needing capital to navigate rising operational costs but facing the highest borrowing rates we’ve seen in years and finding it much harder to secure larger loan amounts required for expansion,” said Benjamin Teo, spokesperson for Linkflow Capital. “This reflects increased lender caution driven by higher SME debt servicing ratios and the unwinding of earlier government support schemes.” Outlook: Early signs of stabilization, but risks remain Looking ahead, early signs of rate relief are emerging. The 3-month SORA benchmark has fallen from 3.03% in January to 2.55% by April 2025. However, business lending rates are expected to adjust slowly and partially, with any reductions possibly materializing only from Q3 2025 onwards. Policy support remains critical The permanent raising of the SME Working Capital Loan cap to $500,000, announced in Budget 2024, provides a key buffer. Nevertheless, cashflow pressures are intensifying: Teo concludes: “Given Singapore’s heavy trade exposure, with trade volumes three times GDP, SMEs remain vulnerable to external shocks like the US-China trade war. Pre-emptive financing planning and maintaining liquidity buffers will be crucial to navigating the uncertain quarters ahead.” The full survey detailed findings and charts are available at: https://smeloan.sg/blog/2024-sme-finance-accessibility-survey/ Hashtag: #Linkflow https://smeloan.sg/https://sg.linkedin.com/company/linkflow-capital-pte-ltd The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Linkflow Capital Founded in 2012, Linkflow Capital is a leading SME loan consultancy in Singapore. Through its loan comparison portal and advisory services, Linkflow Capital assists SMEs in navigating the financing landscape and securing funding solutions from an extensive network of banks and financial institutions.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Global broker JustMarkets announces the official launch of its updated Introducing Broker (IB) program, which is designed to provide partners with higher returns, transparent terms, and unlimited growth potential, adapted to the current macroeconomic environment. JustMarkets Launches Improved IB Program JustMarkets continues to focus on partner success by introducing an updated IB program adapted to the demands of current market conditions. The expanded program eliminates outdated conditions such as the Minimum Trading Point (MTP) requirement. It also introduces a flexible percentage commission structure, offering partners up to 40% of the spread on all trading instruments, including gold, oil, forex, and digital assets. “JustMarkets believes that traders and partners should be at the center of all the innovations and services we introduce. The improved IB program is a powerful tool for partners to take advantage of new opportunities, grow their businesses, and thrive in highly volatile financial markets. The goal is to provide the industry’s most transparent and rewarding partnership environment.” — Yasser Mansour, Senior Key Account Manager, JustMarkets. Key features of the Improved IB program Highest commissions in the market: Partners can earn up to 40% of the spread on Standard and Standard Cent accounts and up to 25% on Pro accounts. JustMarkets provides full profit on every trade without fixed lot payouts that exclude certain trades. No MTP requirements: JustMarkets count towards commissions of all trades, including scalping and short-term strategies. Partners no longer face filtered payouts or partial volumes. Increased Revenue During Volatility: Higher spreads during volatile market conditions directly translate into higher partners rewards, as the percentage model dynamically adjusts to market movements. Faster Growth and Loyalty Rewards: Without MTP rules, partners can increase loyalty levels faster, benefiting from a more generous reward structure. JustMarkets secures current partner level for two months after launch, ensuring a smooth transition. Full Transparency: JustMarkets provides partners with real-time access to view client spreads directly in the trading terminal. This provides full insight into how commissions are calculated, building trust and control over earnings. All strategies supported – scalping, intraday, or long-term trading, are rewarded. Unlike flat lot commission programs where some trades go unpaid, JustMarkets partners earn more by capturing 100% of client trading volume. The move from flat lot commission to a percentage-based system reflects JustMarkets commitment to adapting to market trends and offering its partners a fair, scalable, and profitable environment. JustMarkets transparent percentage model pays for every trade, ensuring that partners get the most out of their clients trading activity. New Opportunities in New Financial Markets Era This essential update comes from JustMarkets mission to create a convenient and transparent trading environment that allows traders and partners to reach their full potential regardless of the unpredictable macroeconomic situation. Through extensive market analysis, the company has aligned its partner offering with current industry trends and partner expectations. “This is about real, consistent, and fair rewards for our valued partners. We offer our partners a program that truly reflects the value and transparency they bring. Every deal matters, every client matters, and every partner matters for JustMarkets.” – JustMarkets Representative Visit Partner Area to learn detailed commission structures, prepare for the next chapter of partnership with JustMarkets, and take it to the next level. JustMarkets 24/7 support team is ready to help with any questions and ensure a smooth transition into this new era of partnership. Hashtag: #JustMarkets https://jm.gold/ibnewasiapr The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. JustMarkets JustMarkets is a globally recognized multi-asset broker providing reliable and transparent trading services since 2012. The company has earned over 60 industry awards, highlighting its excellence in the financial sector. JustMarkets offers a diverse array of trading instruments, including forex, stocks, commodities, indices, metals, energies, and cryptocurrencies, serving clients in over 160 countries.