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The future of AI in trading: prospects for 2025 by global broker Octa

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – 2025 is expected to be the year of increasing AI adoption. According to recent PwC findings, ‘2025 will bring significant advancements in quality, accuracy, capability, and automation that will continue to compound on each other, accelerating toward a period of exponential growth’. Finance, which remains one of the top three sectors with the highest AI penetration, according to Statista and PwC, is no exception. Corporations and retail traders are expected to accelerate AI deployment to increase productivity while carefully mitigating the risks of overreliance on algorithms. In this material, Octa, a broker with globally recognised licenses, shares insights on how AI in trading will evolve in 2025. Emerging AI trends in trading for 2025 Machine learning continues to redefine the trading landscape by enhancing the speed and precision of market analysis. The 2024 IMF Global Financial Stability Report, Chapter 3, highlights that advancements in artificial intelligence are poised to improve market efficiency. To be more precise, AI-driven tools are expected to enable faster portfolio rebalancing and more efficient processing of large trades in asset classes like equities and bonds. However, the IMF also notes the potential risks associated with these technologies, such as heightened volatility during market stress. Neural networks, particularly large language models (LLMs), have shown immense potential for sentiment analysis in trading. Since their introduction in 2017, the share of AI-related patent applications in algorithmic trading has surged from 19% to over 50% annually. The tools are already deployed to process market sentiment from news and social media in near real-time, offering traders insights into geopolitical developments and economic forecasts. Algorithmic trading has grown substantially, with AI-driven systems enabling faster execution and reduced operational errors. High-frequency trading powered by AI has seen significant adoption, particularly in liquid asset classes such as equities and derivatives. While detailed statistics on future adoption rates remain speculative, the World Trade Organization’s focus on the digital transformation of markets underscores the increasing reliance on automation to enhance trading efficiency and liquidity. Opportunities for traders in 2025 AI’s capacity to process sizable quantities of historical and real-time facts allows investors to benefit from predictive insights that had been formerly inconceivable. Advancements in AI-powered predictive analytics are changing how we forecast international markets by making predictions more accurate and providing clear, actionable insights. These tools are transforming financial markets, helping investors spot trends and respond to changes with greater confidence. Emotions can often get in the way of smart trading decisions, especially when markets are highly volatile. AI helps solve this problem by relying purely on data and predictive models for decision-making. According to the IMF’s Global Financial Stability Report, AI-driven tools are already helping retail traders manage risks more effectively and avoid impulsive trades that could lead to losses. As AI tool costs decrease, features like real-time portfolio optimisation and automated trading strategies are becoming accessible to individual traders. Previously available only to large financial institutions, these advanced tools are levelling the playing field, enabling retail investors to trade with more confidence and accuracy. Risks and challenges in AI integration AI-driven business strategies come with inherent risks. The IMF warns that over-reliance on algorithmic models could increase market volatility during a global crisis. For example, AI-driven exchanges exhibited herd-like behaviour during the March 2020 market turmoil. This resulted in significant price volatility and required a robust regulatory mechanism to manage the risks involved. The integrity of AI systems faces increasing security challenges. Research shows that the effectiveness of AI models depends on data quality and security. Recent statistics reveal an alarming trend: cyber threats targeting AI are increasing by 47%. The industry requires robust security measures to protect the algorithms against data manipulation and unauthorised access. While AI offers tremendous value, its complexity poses a challenge for low-tech businesses. The complexity of advanced AI systems makes it crucial to have accessible training resources and intuitive interfaces. These tools help traders, especially newcomers, understand and use AI effectively, paving the way for broader adoption across trading communities. Preparing for AI-driven transformation Thriving in an AI-pushed trading environment requires specific training. Otherwise, traders risk facing sophisticated systems they can’t properly handle or misusing AI-based tools, consequently missing out on their benefits. To prepare for future AI tools, traders should try the available software now. The safest option is to test AI deployment when trading on a demo account. This option is available on trading platforms provided by global brokers like Octa. For example, Octa broker currently uses AI to facilitate graph analysis and boost pattern identification when conducting technical analysis. Following the increased AI adoption trend, the company will likely keep embedding more AI-based tools on the platform. AI is set to further redefine trading in 2025. From enhanced predictive analytics to democratising organisational productivity tools, the technology enables traders to make smarter, faster decisions. However, sustainable usage should remain at the core. One should be aware of risks such as over-reliance on algorithms and data security. To mitigate these risks, a reasonable strategy would be to combine AI-based analytics with human market monitoring and decision-making. AI should be perceived as a convenient tool rather than a magic pill for making accurate trading decisions. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

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Jollibee Opens 200th Store in Vietnam

Jollibee Group’s flagship brand solidifies position as one of the top restaurant chains in Vietnam HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – The Jollibee Group, one of the largest and fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world, marks a significant milestone with the grand opening of its 200th Jollibee store in Vietnam. This achievement underscores the company’s success in market penetration and reinforces its commitment to international growth. Jollibee Group celebrates the opening of its 200th Jollibee Store in Vietnam, solidifying its position as one of the top restaurant chains in the country. The ceremony was led by Jollibee Group executives, including Jollibee Group Global Chief Executive Officer Ernesto Tanmantiong (2nd row, 5th from left); Jollibee Group Philippines CEO and Jollibee Global Head Joseph Tanbuntiong (2nd row, 6th from left); Jollibee Group Global Chief Business Support Officer William Tan Untiong (2nd row, 3rd from left); Jollibee Group Chief Financial and Risk Officer Richard Shin (2nd row, 2nd from left); Jollibee EMEAA President Dennis Flores (2nd row, 4th from left); Jollibee Vietnam Managing Director Lam Hong Nguyen (1st row, 3rd from left). Jollibee Vietnam’s 200th store was inaugurated on December 12, 2024, at 704 Hau Giang Street, Ward 12, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City, with crowds eagerly awaiting their Jollibee favorites. Vietnamese customers eagerly await as Jollibee Vietnam celebrates its 200th store on December 12, 2024 at 704 Hau Giang Street, Ward 12, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City. “This incredible 200-store milestone in Vietnam, our largest international market, signifies the acceleration of Jollibee’s global expansion, bringing us closer to our vision of becoming one of the Top 5 restaurant companies in the world,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group Global Chief Executive Officer. “What’s significant to us is how Jollibee was able to be a part of the Vietnamese people’s lives and was provided the opportunity to bring them many joyful moments.” “We are honored that millions of Vietnam citizens have embraced Jollibee, and truly love the food from Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti to Chili Chicken, which was specially made for the Vietnamese. We share this milestone with the Jollibee Vietnam team who rose above many obstacles to fulfill our mission of providing delicious food to bring the joy of eating across the Vietnamese communities,” Tanmantiong added. “The success we’ve achieved in Vietnam is what we continue to strive for in markets across Asia and the rest of the world where we operate,” said Dennis Flores, Jollibee President for Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Australia (EMEAA). “In Vietnam, almost 100% of the customers are Vietnamese. This is a testament to how Jollibee can appeal to diverse markets and cross borders. By staying true to our commitment to deliver great-tasting food with consistent quality and warm friendly service, while listening closely to each market’s preferences and constantly innovating, we are poised to further accelerate our growth momentum.” Jollibee greets fans as Jollibee Vietnam inaugurates its 200th store—Jollibee’s biggest store network outside the Philippines. Jollibee’s Two-Decade Success Story in Vietnam Jollibee Vietnam’s journey did not happen overnight. Beginning modestly in 2005 with its first branch in Coop Mart Xa Lo Hanoi, the brand has grown to become a beloved dining destination for Vietnamese customers. “It is the continuous support of the Vietnamese people, and their fondness for Jollibee’s signature offerings like Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti that has fueled this remarkable growth and inspired us to strive towards becoming the quick-service restaurant (QSR) with the widest network in Vietnam,” said Lam Hong Nguyen, Jollibee Vietnam Managing Director. Jollibee’s success in Vietnam is largely attributed to its menu of exceptional-tasting products loved by locals. Signature dishes like Chickenjoy, perfectly crispy fried chicken, and sweet-style Spaghetti, a unique and beloved offering, have become iconic favorites. The spicy and flavorful Chili Chicken, developed specifically for Vietnamese customers, further complements the diverse menu and caters to the distinct local palate—an approach that has also won over local customers in other markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Spicy Chickenjoy offering; and in the United Kingdom (UK) and Spain with Chicken Sandwich. To support growing customer demand, Jollibee established its own ISO 22000-certified commissary in Vietnam to produce its fast-moving products. It is the first and only QSR in Vietnam to support its operation through a self-managed commissary, with the capacity to support 400 stores locally. Ensuring Success in Asia and Across the World Jollibee Group’s sustained growth in Vietnam is a testament to its strategic approach, operational excellence, and deep understanding of local preferences. For almost 20 years, its flagship brand, Jollibee, has delighted Vietnamese customers with its unique and joyful dining experience. The company also continues to grow its presence in the country with its homegrown coffee brand, Highlands Coffee. Highlands Coffee has grown exponentially since Jollibee Group acquired a 50% stake in 2012, expanding from 56 stores to a network of 763 in Vietnam and 815 globally. Today, the company holds a controlling 60% share of the business. Highlands Coffee is the market leader for Vietnamese coffee, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community building. Its strategic growth has solidified its presence, especially in key urban areas, resonating strongly with both locals and visitors. Looking ahead, Jollibee Group is well positioned for continued expansion in Asia and across the world. It recently entered the South Korean market with its acquisition of Compose Coffee. It has also entered into an agreement to acquire full ownership and control of Hong Kong-based dim sum restaurant Tim Ho Wan from Titan Dining LP (Titan Fund). Jollibee Group has also entered a joint venture with Singapore-based Food Collective Pte. Ltd. (FCPL) to expand the Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters chains in the Philippines. The Jollibee Group now has a portfolio of 19 brands with over 9,500 stores across 32 countries worldwide. Hashtag: #JollibeeGroup The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Jollibee Group Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), also

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Vietnam boosts eel exports by improving quality standards

HA NOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – Vietnamese eel exporters have focused on enhancing quality standards to meet the stringent demands of international markets. Mud-free eel farming model using composite tanks This commitment ensures the competitiveness of Vietnamese eels in high-value markets, paving the way for further expansion and solidifying Vietnam’s position as a global player in the eel export industry. Leveraging advantages to expand exports In recent years, Vietnam’s eel farming and export industry has experienced rapid growth, establishing a relatively complete industrial chain encompassing breeding, farming, feed manufacturing, processing and export. Annual eel production is estimated at 50,000 to 60,000 tonnes, with the majority concentrated in the Mekong Delta provinces, including Dong Thap, An Giang, Hau Giang, Tien Giang and Can Tho. These regions boast ideal natural conditions for eel farming. Eel farming has become a key aquaculture component, creating numerous jobs, alleviating poverty and boosting incomes in rural areas. The adoption of innovative techniques, such as mud-free eel farming in composite tanks, has further enhanced productivity and efficiency. Eels are a popular freshwater aquatic species worldwide. Vietnamese eels (Monopterus albus) are highly regarded for their nutritional value and adaptability to freshwater environments. They are especially prized for their nutritious meat, which is rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Often referred to as ‘ginseng of the water,’ eels are favoured for their health benefits and exquisite taste. Vietnam’s eel exports have surged over recent years. In 2023, total export revenue reached about US$1.7 million, primarily driven by demand in the US and Japan. By 2024, with China emerging as a significant market, several Vietnamese companies gained approval to export eels through official channels. As of October 2024, Vietnam’s eel exports totalled $2.98 million, with a volume of around 670 tonnes. China accounted for nearly half of the exports (300 tonnes), followed by Japan (50 tonnes), the US (38 tonnes) and South Korea (33 tonnes). Export revenue is projected to reach $3.6 million in 2024, doubling the 2023 figures. Meeting rising standards Continuous innovation, technological advancement and enhanced management practices are pivotal for Vietnam’s eel industry to meet growing market demands and boost exports. State agencies, research institutions and businesses prioritise the development and application of advanced technologies to produce disease-resistant eel breeds, improve breed quality, control farming environments and manage disease outbreaks. These efforts aim to optimise efficiency and product quality. Seafood enterprises have also diversified processed eel products to better meet the requirements of export markets. Meanwhile, authorities have intensified food safety supervision at both central and local levels and guided the industry toward standardisation. Eel farms are adopting quality certification systems, including VietGAP and GlobalGAP. Transparent documentation of farming processes, feed origins, medication usage and eel breeds is also required. Standardised closed-loop farming minimises disease risks, reduces costs and enhances product quality, aligning with stringent international standards. Currently, over 60 Vietnamese seafood companies are certified to export eel products to demanding markets, including the EU, Japan, the US, South Korea and China. The recognition and approval from these markets signal a strong opportunity for Vietnam’s eel industry to expand production and scale up exports in the coming years. Promising prospects for eel exports The growing demand for high-quality eel among Chinese consumers and Asians in global markets presents significant opportunities for Vietnam’s eel export industry to thrive in the coming years. Along with continuing to exploit and leverage favourable natural conditions, Vietnam’s eel farming export industry will improve modern, safe and sustainable farming practices free of antibiotics and heavy metal residues. Enhanced management systems, traceability and compliance with international food safety standards will give Vietnam’s products a competitive edge, especially in stringent markets. Domestic companies are actively exploring new market opportunities, building brand recognition and improving product quality to align with global standards. As a result, Vietnamese eel is increasingly recognised for its quality and ability to meet the preferences of consumers worldwide. Vietnam’s eel export industry expects greater support and collaboration from international regulatory bodies for import approvals and encourages importers to choose Vietnamese eel. This will ensure more global consumers can enjoy high-quality, safe and competitively priced eel products. Hashtag: #MARD The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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FBS Helps Traders Turn 2025 Resolutions into Reality with its Happy New Trade Promo

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – FBS, a leading global broker, has just launched its promotional campaign Happy New Trade. The promo is designed to help traders turn their New Year’s resolutions into reality. Running until January 26, 2025, the campaign offers participants the chance to achieve more, with exclusive rewards and thrilling opportunities waiting at every level. The Happy New Trade promo transforms trading into a rewarding journey with guaranteed gifts and a fantastic raffle. All traders have to do to join is deposit $100 and trade 1 lot, which automatically unlocks their first-level reward. As participants trade more lots, they progress through 20 levels of exclusive prizes and raffle tickets. At every level, FBS ensures guaranteed prizes, such as TradingView Plus subscriptions, cashback bonuses, and high-end items like: Apple Watch Series 10 or Samsung Watch 7 iPhone 16 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Amazing car (up to $50 000) Premium car (up to $150 000) Luxury car (up to $1 000 000) Beyond the level-based gifts, the grand raffle will reward 1000 participants with a share of a $150 000 prize pool. Traders earn raffle tickets as they progress through the levels, with each ticket increasing their chances of winning. In line with its mission to empower traders, FBS provides user-friendly tools, advanced analytics, and seamless platforms that make trading accessible and rewarding. Happy New Trade is more than just a promo campaign; it reflects FBS’s commitment to equipping traders with everything they need to succeed while celebrating their achievements along the way. The New Year is full of opportunities, and FBS is here to help traders seize them. Learn more at FBS.com. Disclaimer: This material does not constitute a call to trade, trading advice, or recommendation, and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual prizes may differ from the stated ones. The organizer reserves the right to select the prize. Hashtag: #FBS #HappyNewYear #raffle #IPhone #car https://fbs.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/fbs-inc-/https://twitter.com/FBS_brokerhttps://www.facebook.com/financefreedomsuccess/https://www.instagram.com/fbs_forex/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About FBS FBS is a global brand that unites several independent brokerage companies under the licenses of FSC (Belize), CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia). With 15 years of experience and over 90 international awards, FBS is steadily developing as one of the market’s most trusted brokers. Today, FBS serves over 27 000 000 traders and more than 700 000 partners around the globe.

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FBS Helps Traders Turn 2025 Resolutions into Reality with its Happy New Trade Promo

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – FBS, a leading global broker, has just launched its promotional campaign Happy New Trade. The promo is designed to help traders turn their New Year’s resolutions into reality. Running until January 26, 2025, the campaign offers participants the chance to achieve more, with exclusive rewards and thrilling opportunities waiting at every level. The Happy New Trade promo transforms trading into a rewarding journey with guaranteed gifts and a fantastic raffle. All traders have to do to join is deposit $100 and trade 1 lot, which automatically unlocks their first-level reward. As participants trade more lots, they progress through 20 levels of exclusive prizes and raffle tickets. At every level, FBS ensures guaranteed prizes, such as TradingView Plus subscriptions, cashback bonuses, and high-end items like: Apple Watch Series 10 or Samsung Watch 7 iPhone 16 Pro Max or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Amazing car (up to $50 000) Premium car (up to $150 000) Luxury car (up to $1 000 000) Beyond the level-based gifts, the grand raffle will reward 1000 participants with a share of a $150 000 prize pool. Traders earn raffle tickets as they progress through the levels, with each ticket increasing their chances of winning. In line with its mission to empower traders, FBS provides user-friendly tools, advanced analytics, and seamless platforms that make trading accessible and rewarding. Happy New Trade is more than just a promo campaign; it reflects FBS’s commitment to equipping traders with everything they need to succeed while celebrating their achievements along the way. The New Year is full of opportunities, and FBS is here to help traders seize them. Learn more at FBS.com. Disclaimer: This material does not constitute a call to trade, trading advice, or recommendation, and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual prizes may differ from the stated ones. The organizer reserves the right to select the prize. Hashtag: #FBS #HappyNewYear #raffle #IPhone #car https://fbs.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/fbs-inc-/https://twitter.com/FBS_brokerhttps://www.facebook.com/financefreedomsuccess/https://www.instagram.com/fbs_forex/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About FBS FBS is a global brand that unites several independent brokerage companies under the licenses of FSC (Belize), CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia). With 15 years of experience and over 90 international awards, FBS is steadily developing as one of the market’s most trusted brokers. Today, FBS serves over 27 000 000 traders and more than 700 000 partners around the globe.

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Aon and FIDE FORUM Release Report on Directors Remuneration in Malaysia

Findings show increasing attention on directors’ compensation from financial institutions Retainer fees for board chairs are typically 1.3 times to two times higher than board members KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, announced the findings from the 2024 Director’s Remuneration Report in collaboration with FIDE FORUM, a community of board leaders from the financial industry in Malaysia. The report explores the compensation practices of non-executive directors (NEDs) across financial institutions in Malaysia, delves into key elements such as board structure, composition, tenure and diversity, and analyzes the compensation of NEDs and how it aligns with their roles and responsibilities. The report revealed the total cost of governance – the amount of compensation made to all board members for financial institutions – varies widely. The cost of governance incurred by participants of the survey ranged from RM 500,000 to RM 3,500,000 and is influenced by factors such as institution type and asset size. Larger organisations, particularly those with assets exceeding RM 100 billion generally incur higher governance costs. On average, the total cost of governance by type of financial institution is: Corporate banks – RM 1.2M Insurance companies – RM 0.9M Investment banks – RM 1.7M Islamic banks – RM 1.3M Retail banks – RM 1.8M Takaful operators – RM 0.8M The study also found that retainer fees for board chairs are typically 1.3 times to two times higher than those of board members, while meeting allowances are consistent with no distinctions between board chairs and board members. Furthermore, 84 percent of participants do not provide compensation for information meetings, six percent provide compensation for regulatory meetings and 11 percent compensate NEDs for ad-hoc discussions. In addition, 99 percent of the participants of the survey reported providing insurance to their directors, including directors & officers liability, group term life, group personal accident and travel insurance, while 56 percent provided medical benefits including inpatient, outpatient, dental, optical and wellbeing services. Apart from healthcare, 33 percent of participants reported providing learning and development opportunities that cover conferences and seminar fees, certifications, or online course subscriptions, over and above the training programs facilitated by the institutions. All participating institutions reported the existence of an audit committee and risk committee, as mandated by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the central bank of Malaysia. However, only 92 percent of participants reported having a nomination committee and remuneration committee, often combined, despite these also being mandated by the BNM. The study found this is due to subsidiaries having these matters settled at a wider group level rather than at the individual institutional level. Rahul Chawla, partner and head of Talent Solutions for southeast Asia at Aon, said “There is increasing demand for quality talent in businesses not only at executive levels, but also at the company board level. Companies need directors who are experts in their respective fields and who can significantly impact the company’s growth and overall corporate governance. However, directors often operate in a very complex environment which not only requires them to leverage diverse skills to provide stewardship but also be open to increasing shareholder and public scrutiny. By understanding these trends, organisations can better align their compensation practices to attract and retain the right directors while contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of their organisation.” Data from the survey confirmed that boards have good diversity across tenure, gender and age. According to the survey, about 70 percent of institutions have their board chair represented on at least one board committee and 87 percent of boards have at least one woman as director, with 33 percent having three or more women directors on their boards. Additionally, 67 percent of directors are over 60 years old with 13 percent of directors being over 80 years of age. With regard to tenure, 59 percent of independent NEDs served the board for one to six years while 48 percent of non-independent NEDs have tenures ranging from one to nine years. This indicates there is a good mix of new and established directors on boards with new directors who may offer fresh perspectives while directors with longer tenures holding institutional knowledge. Datuk Kamaruddin Taib, Chairman of FIDE FORUM said, “Across jurisdictions, remuneration policies are closely monitored alongside stringent corporate governance regulations. Directors should be compensated in a manner that preserves the effectiveness of board oversight functions. After all, the primary role of a director is to uphold good governance – not only to ensure institutional performance but [to protect] the interest of all stakeholders which is part of ensuring financial stability that [reinforces] confidence in financial institutions and markets.” More information about Aon in Asia can be found here. Hashtag: #Aon The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the NED report The NED report delves into key elements such as board structure, composition, tenure, diversity and remuneration and provides practical guidance for NEDs to ensure their compensation aligns with their roles and responsibilities. A total of 70 FIDE FORUM member institutions completed the survey, representing approximately 70 percent of financial institutions in Malaysia of which 21 percent are listed in Malaysia. About Aon Aon plc (NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses. Follow Aon on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. Stay up-to-date by visiting Aon’s newsroom and sign up for news alerts here. Disclaimer The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the

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Aon and FIDE FORUM Release Report on Directors Remuneration in Malaysia

Findings show increasing attention on directors’ compensation from financial institutions Retainer fees for board chairs are typically 1.3 times to two times higher than board members KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, announced the findings from the 2024 Director’s Remuneration Report in collaboration with FIDE FORUM, a community of board leaders from the financial industry in Malaysia. The report explores the compensation practices of non-executive directors (NEDs) across financial institutions in Malaysia, delves into key elements such as board structure, composition, tenure and diversity, and analyzes the compensation of NEDs and how it aligns with their roles and responsibilities. The report revealed the total cost of governance – the amount of compensation made to all board members for financial institutions – varies widely. The cost of governance incurred by participants of the survey ranged from RM 500,000 to RM 3,500,000 and is influenced by factors such as institution type and asset size. Larger organisations, particularly those with assets exceeding RM 100 billion generally incur higher governance costs. On average, the total cost of governance by type of financial institution is: Corporate banks – RM 1.2M Insurance companies – RM 0.9M Investment banks – RM 1.7M Islamic banks – RM 1.3M Retail banks – RM 1.8M Takaful operators – RM 0.8M The study also found that retainer fees for board chairs are typically 1.3 times to two times higher than those of board members, while meeting allowances are consistent with no distinctions between board chairs and board members. Furthermore, 84 percent of participants do not provide compensation for information meetings, six percent provide compensation for regulatory meetings and 11 percent compensate NEDs for ad-hoc discussions. In addition, 99 percent of the participants of the survey reported providing insurance to their directors, including directors & officers liability, group term life, group personal accident and travel insurance, while 56 percent provided medical benefits including inpatient, outpatient, dental, optical and wellbeing services. Apart from healthcare, 33 percent of participants reported providing learning and development opportunities that cover conferences and seminar fees, certifications, or online course subscriptions, over and above the training programs facilitated by the institutions. All participating institutions reported the existence of an audit committee and risk committee, as mandated by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the central bank of Malaysia. However, only 92 percent of participants reported having a nomination committee and remuneration committee, often combined, despite these also being mandated by the BNM. The study found this is due to subsidiaries having these matters settled at a wider group level rather than at the individual institutional level. Rahul Chawla, partner and head of Talent Solutions for southeast Asia at Aon, said “There is increasing demand for quality talent in businesses not only at executive levels, but also at the company board level. Companies need directors who are experts in their respective fields and who can significantly impact the company’s growth and overall corporate governance. However, directors often operate in a very complex environment which not only requires them to leverage diverse skills to provide stewardship but also be open to increasing shareholder and public scrutiny. By understanding these trends, organisations can better align their compensation practices to attract and retain the right directors while contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of their organisation.” Data from the survey confirmed that boards have good diversity across tenure, gender and age. According to the survey, about 70 percent of institutions have their board chair represented on at least one board committee and 87 percent of boards have at least one woman as director, with 33 percent having three or more women directors on their boards. Additionally, 67 percent of directors are over 60 years old with 13 percent of directors being over 80 years of age. With regard to tenure, 59 percent of independent NEDs served the board for one to six years while 48 percent of non-independent NEDs have tenures ranging from one to nine years. This indicates there is a good mix of new and established directors on boards with new directors who may offer fresh perspectives while directors with longer tenures holding institutional knowledge. Datuk Kamaruddin Taib, Chairman of FIDE FORUM said, “Across jurisdictions, remuneration policies are closely monitored alongside stringent corporate governance regulations. Directors should be compensated in a manner that preserves the effectiveness of board oversight functions. After all, the primary role of a director is to uphold good governance – not only to ensure institutional performance but [to protect] the interest of all stakeholders which is part of ensuring financial stability that [reinforces] confidence in financial institutions and markets.” More information about Aon in Asia can be found here. Hashtag: #Aon The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the NED report The NED report delves into key elements such as board structure, composition, tenure, diversity and remuneration and provides practical guidance for NEDs to ensure their compensation aligns with their roles and responsibilities. A total of 70 FIDE FORUM member institutions completed the survey, representing approximately 70 percent of financial institutions in Malaysia of which 21 percent are listed in Malaysia. About Aon Aon plc (NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses. Follow Aon on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. Stay up-to-date by visiting Aon’s newsroom and sign up for news alerts here. Disclaimer The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the

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AKAR DE NISSIM and Laabmilano Announce the Launch of the DAYA Collection

A Harmonious Fusion of Eastern Philosophy and Italian Design SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 December 2024 – AKAR DE NISSIM, the distinguished designer furnishing house renowned for its seamless blend of artisan traditions with contemporary designs and impeccable craftsmanship, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest collection, DAYA. Created in collaboration with Laabmilano, this collection epitomises Italian design, melding iconic forms, and poetic and historical vision, all while being inspired by the ancient principals of Feng Shui. ANFRATTO Sofa – DAYA Collection The pieces in the DAYA collection are meticulously crafted to inspire and evoke subconscious emotions, stimulating perceptions towards creativity, transitions, and the indefinite. Designer Donatella Casiraghi, stated, “The union of Eastern and Western cultures makes the technological and spiritual aspects of design complementary and necessary for the pursuit of a life aiming to protect natural ecosystems.” The DAYA collection incorporates elements that add a rich sensorial and textural dimension. A selection of luxurious leathers, enhances the sculptural forms and intricate details of each piece. Marble, with its ash-grey and beige tones veined in light and dark, emerges as a striking feature, providing a compelling visual contrast. The collection also highlights Straw Marquetry inlay, crafted from natural straw stalks hand-dyed with alcohol-based colourants. Each stalk is meticulously split, flattened, and arranged into a precise geometric design–all by hand. The colour binds uniquely to the straw, creating a vibrant, translucent, and distinctive guilloché effect. Stingray leather, also known as galuchat, is another iconic feature of AKAR DE NISSIM, pairing its unique texture with precious materials used in the furniture. Another AKAR DE NISSIM’s hallmark is lacquer craft, perfected over generations in Vietnam’s lacquer villages, lending refined simplicity and elegance to the brand’s timeless and iconic aesthetics. AKAR DE NISSIM works closely with architects, Interior designers & fine furnishing distributors. To collaborate or find out more about this collection please visit this link or contact AKAR DE NISSIM at [email protected] Hashtag: #akardenissim #furniture #luxury #fusion #Dayacollection #laabmilano https://akardenissim.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/akar-de-nissim?originalSubdomain=sghttps://www.facebook.com/p/Akar-de-Nissim-100070425330618/https://www.instagram.com/akardenissim/?hl=en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

AKAR DE NISSIM and Laabmilano Announce the Launch of the DAYA Collection

A Harmonious Fusion of Eastern Philosophy and Italian Design SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 December 2024 – AKAR DE NISSIM, the distinguished designer furnishing house renowned for its seamless blend of artisan traditions with contemporary designs and impeccable craftsmanship, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest collection, DAYA. Created in collaboration with Laabmilano, this collection epitomises Italian design, melding iconic forms, and poetic and historical vision, all while being inspired by the ancient principals of Feng Shui. ANFRATTO Sofa – DAYA Collection The pieces in the DAYA collection are meticulously crafted to inspire and evoke subconscious emotions, stimulating perceptions towards creativity, transitions, and the indefinite. Designer Donatella Casiraghi, stated, “The union of Eastern and Western cultures makes the technological and spiritual aspects of design complementary and necessary for the pursuit of a life aiming to protect natural ecosystems.” The DAYA collection incorporates elements that add a rich sensorial and textural dimension. A selection of luxurious leathers, enhances the sculptural forms and intricate details of each piece. Marble, with its ash-grey and beige tones veined in light and dark, emerges as a striking feature, providing a compelling visual contrast. The collection also highlights Straw Marquetry inlay, crafted from natural straw stalks hand-dyed with alcohol-based colourants. Each stalk is meticulously split, flattened, and arranged into a precise geometric design–all by hand. The colour binds uniquely to the straw, creating a vibrant, translucent, and distinctive guilloché effect. Stingray leather, also known as galuchat, is another iconic feature of AKAR DE NISSIM, pairing its unique texture with precious materials used in the furniture. Another AKAR DE NISSIM’s hallmark is lacquer craft, perfected over generations in Vietnam’s lacquer villages, lending refined simplicity and elegance to the brand’s timeless and iconic aesthetics. AKAR DE NISSIM works closely with architects, Interior designers & fine furnishing distributors. To collaborate or find out more about this collection please visit this link or contact AKAR DE NISSIM at [email protected] Hashtag: #akardenissim #furniture #luxury #fusion #Dayacollection #laabmilano https://akardenissim.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/akar-de-nissim?originalSubdomain=sghttps://www.facebook.com/p/Akar-de-Nissim-100070425330618/https://www.instagram.com/akardenissim/?hl=en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

AKAR DE NISSIM and Laabmilano Announce the Launch of the DAYA Collection

A Harmonious Fusion of Eastern Philosophy and Italian Design SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 December 2024 – AKAR DE NISSIM, the distinguished designer furnishing house renowned for its seamless blend of artisan traditions with contemporary designs and impeccable craftsmanship, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest collection, DAYA. Created in collaboration with Laabmilano, this collection epitomises Italian design, melding iconic forms, and poetic and historical vision, all while being inspired by the ancient principals of Feng Shui. ANFRATTO Sofa – DAYA Collection The pieces in the DAYA collection are meticulously crafted to inspire and evoke subconscious emotions, stimulating perceptions towards creativity, transitions, and the indefinite. Designer Donatella Casiraghi, stated, “The union of Eastern and Western cultures makes the technological and spiritual aspects of design complementary and necessary for the pursuit of a life aiming to protect natural ecosystems.” The DAYA collection incorporates elements that add a rich sensorial and textural dimension. A selection of luxurious leathers, enhances the sculptural forms and intricate details of each piece. Marble, with its ash-grey and beige tones veined in light and dark, emerges as a striking feature, providing a compelling visual contrast. The collection also highlights Straw Marquetry inlay, crafted from natural straw stalks hand-dyed with alcohol-based colourants. Each stalk is meticulously split, flattened, and arranged into a precise geometric design–all by hand. The colour binds uniquely to the straw, creating a vibrant, translucent, and distinctive guilloché effect. Stingray leather, also known as galuchat, is another iconic feature of AKAR DE NISSIM, pairing its unique texture with precious materials used in the furniture. Another AKAR DE NISSIM’s hallmark is lacquer craft, perfected over generations in Vietnam’s lacquer villages, lending refined simplicity and elegance to the brand’s timeless and iconic aesthetics. AKAR DE NISSIM works closely with architects, Interior designers & fine furnishing distributors. To collaborate or find out more about this collection please visit this link or contact AKAR DE NISSIM at [email protected] Hashtag: #akardenissim #furniture #luxury #fusion #Dayacollection #laabmilano https://akardenissim.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/akar-de-nissim?originalSubdomain=sghttps://www.facebook.com/p/Akar-de-Nissim-100070425330618/https://www.instagram.com/akardenissim/?hl=en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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