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DOCOMO Initiates Multi-Party 5G Trial for Connected Cars

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Test vehicle (Toyota Alphard)
Test environment
- Compact on-board antenna achieves 1-Gbs 5G communications in moving vehicle -

TOKYO, Nov 6, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that in a trial of 5G technologies for automobiles, which it conducted jointly with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), Ericsson and Intel Corporation (Intel), it achieved data speeds of up to 1 Gbps for 4K-resolution video communications with a vehicle traveling at 30 km/h. The technology will be demonstrated at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Tokyo from November 9 to 11 as part of DOCOMO R&D Open House 2017.

This initial multi-party trial conducted along Tokyo's Odaiba waterfront on November 2 involved a moving vehicle mounted with an Intel GOTM 5G Automotive Platform terminal and equipped with a compact on-board antenna head designed for connected car trials. Traveling at a speed of 30 km/h through a 5G trial environment constructed by DOCOMO in the Odaiba area, with multiple Ericsson base stations and Cloud-RAN, the vehicle successfully streamed live 4K video at data speeds of up to 1 Gbps downlink/600 Mbps uplink, demonstrating 5G's unprecedented ultra-high speed data rates, extra-low latency and massive connectivity.

Further trials will be conducted in cooperation with Ericsson, Intel and Toyota to test the practicality of services for 5G-connected cars and other applications. This accomplishment marks the first 5G multi-vendor interoperability trial involving a device connected to a base station in an automotive environment.

DOCOMO has been partnering with leading companies in its drive to develop new services based on 5G technologies. Since May, DOCOMO has been operating 5G Trial Sites to let everyday customers view and experience emerging 5G technologies that may be incorporated into new products and services in the future.

The NTT Group and Toyota have also agreed to collaborate in the research and development of an ICT platform for 5G-connected cars.

Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to work with diverse global partners to develop and standardize 5G technologies for advanced services in the field of automobiles and beyond.

Connected Car Trial Environment

Test vehicle (Toyota Alphard)
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaAlphard11617.jpg

Test environment
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaTestEnvironment11617.jpg

About NTT DOCOMO

NTT DOCOMO provides innovative, convenient and secure mobile services that enable smarter living for each customer. The company serves over 65 million mobile customers in Japan via advanced wireless networks, including a nationwide 3G network and one of the world's first commercial LTE networks. Leveraging its unique capabilities as a mobile operator, DOCOMO is a leading developer of cutting-edge technologies for NFC mobile payments, mobile GPS, mobile TV, intuitive mobile assistance, environmental monitoring, smart grids and much more. Overseas, the company provides technical and operational expertise to eight mobile operators and other partner companies. NTT DOCOMO is listed on the Tokyo (9437) and New York (DCM) stock exchanges. Please visit https://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/english/ for more information.

Contact:
NTT DOCOMO International PR Public Relations Department Tel: +81-3-5156-1366 Fax: +81-3-5501-3408 URL: www.nttdocomo.com

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Chinlink and MCM Complete a Joint Venture

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A win-win Cooperation to Expand their Footprint in Both China and Internationally

HONG KONG, Nov 6, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Chinlink International Holdings Limited ("Chinlink" or "Company", HKSE Stock Code: 0997), its subsidiaries (collectively the "Group") and MCM Holdings Limited ("MCM") are pleased to announce the completion of a Joint Venture ("JV") between Chinlink and MCM that took place on 6 November 2017. After Completion, the JV became a 51%-owned subsidiary of the Company. The JV will bring together the financial services provided by Chinlink and the businesses under MCM.

Chinlink is a financial services provider holding multiple licenses both in Hong Kong and China. It provides financing guarantee, finance lease, supply chain finance and money leanding services. Over the past years, the Group established a strong foothold in Xi'an in particular.

MCM is a financial services boutique providing high-end investment and merchant banking services, and soon asset management services. It services clients and investors across Hong Kong, China and the Asia Pacific region along with major global centres including Europe and the Americas. MCM is regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission ("SFC").

The JV establishes a unique opportunity for Chinlink and MCM to significantly expand their financial services offering and expertise, as they also develop their asset management platform. Furthermore, the JV will bring together the necessary professional qualifications, experience and expertise as they expand their footprint in both China and internationally.

Through Chinlink's strong understanding of China market, and MCM's extensive global network and the investment banking experience of its founders and key members, the JV will be well positioned as a cross-border financial player with local presence in China as well as benefiting from a fully integrated platform with access to international capital markets.

Mr. Siu Wai Yip, Executive Director of Chinlink, said, "Given with our establishment in Xi'an, the increasing importance of The Belt and Road Initiative provides ample opportunities for Chinlink. The JV with MCM enables the Group to grasp such opportunities. We are confident that the JV will increase the competitiveness of Chinlink in long run by offering an extensive range of financial services."

Mr. Rachid Bouzouba, MCM Co-Founder, said, "Through its extensive network in Asia as well as in Europe and the Americas, this Joint Venture with a reputable Chinese group will consolidate MCM's position as a leading financial services boutique specializing in bringing global investment opportunities to Asia, and Asia to the world. As part of this strategy MCM recently opened an office in London to expand its presence in Europe."

Mr. Adrian Valenzuela, MCM Co-Founder, said, "Chinlink represents the best attributes we would look for in a partnership. They exemplify a story of successful entrepreneurship and vision, building a fantastic business in China. Together with the financial expertise and global network of MCM, we will create a financial services platform that will be positioned to capitalize on the next stage of development and growth in the region, particularly as China's role in global financial markets is sure to expand significantly."

About Chinlink International Holdings Limited
Chinlink International Holdings Limited is a listed company on the Main Board of Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 0997). Chinlink provides financial services such as supply chain finance, financing guarantee, finance lease and money lending to China and Hong Kong enterprises, and also builds and operates large scale logistics park, mall and trade centre accommodating a huge business client base to integrate with the financial and logistics services. For business particulars, please visit www.chinlinkint.com.

About MCM Holdings Limited
MCM is a financial services boutique headquartered in Hong Kong providing high-end investment and merchant banking services, pursuing continuous innovation to support our clients' activities. We provide wide access across Hong Kong, Greater China & other Asian markets along with major global centres including Europe and the Americas, making MCM Partners one of the leading integrated platforms of its kind in Hong Kong. We identify strategic and financial opportunities within a global context, through the extensive network of our experienced banking team.

MCM Asia Limited, a subsidiary of MCM, is regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and a member of Alliance of International Corporate Advisors (AICA).
MCM Investment Partners, a subsidiary of MCM, has been granted an approval-in-principle by the SFC for Asset Management activities (Type 9).

This press release is issued by Financial PR (HK) Limited on behalf of Chinlink International Holdings Limited. For enquiries, please contact:

Chinlink International Holdings Limited
Joanne Lee
Corporate Development and Communications Director
Tel: +852 2126 6363
Email: joannelee@chinlinkint.com
Website: www.chinlinkint.com

Rebecca Chan
Corporate Communications Manager
Tel: +852 2126 6363
Email: rebeccachan@chinlinkint.com
Website: www.chinlinkint.com

MCM Holdings Limited
Vivian Liu
Chief Operating Officer
Tel: +852 2210 0812
Email: vivian.liu@mcmpartners.com
Website: www.mcmpartners.com

Financial PR (HK) Limited
Fung Hon / Cara Pang
Tel: +852 2610 0846
Email: hf@financialpr.hk / carapang@financialpr.hk



Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

New Data From Long-Term Extension of Phase 1B Study of Investigational Alzheimer's Disease Treatment Aducanumab Presented at 10th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease

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TOKYO, Nov 6, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that Biogen Inc. (Nasdaq: BIIB) presented new data from the long-term extension (LTE) of its ongoing Phase 1b study of aducanumab, an investigational treatment for Alzheimer's disease at the 10th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) meeting, Boston, Massachusetts, United States, from November 1 to 4.

As of October 23, 2017, Eisai and Biogen entered into a global collaboration agreement to jointly develop and commercialize aducanumab.

The data include results from patients in the Phase 1b study of aducanumab who were treated with a gradually increased dose of aducanumab for up to 24 months and those who were treated with a fixed dose of 3, 6 or 10 mg/kg aducanumab for up to 36 months.

- Two-year data from Phase 1b study suggest a continued benefit on amyloid plaque reduction and the rate of clinical decline in the titration regimen group, which received a gradually increased aducanumab dose
- The results at two years in the titration regimen group were consistent with the dose- and time-dependent results observed in the treatment groups that received a fixed-dose of 3, 6 or 10 mg/kg aducanumab during the same time period
- Results from treatment groups that received a fixed-dose of 3, 6 or 10 mg/kg aducanumab for up to three years were consistent with previously reported analyses from the Phase 1b study and support the design of the ongoing Phase 3 studies of aducanumab for early Alzheimer's disease

The results from the Phase 1b study of aducanumab including the new data from the LTE have further deepened Eisai's conviction in the amyloid hypothesis. Eisai plans to advance co-development with Biogen and hopes to create the world's potentially first new treatment for Alzheimer's disease based on the amyloid hypothesis as early as possible.

About aducanumab (BIIB037)

Aducanumab (BIIB037) is an investigational drug being developed for the treatment of AD. Aducanumab is a human recombinant monoclonal antibody (mAb) derived from a de-identified library of B cells collected from healthy elderly subjects with no signs of cognitive impairment or cognitively impaired elderly subjects with unusually slow cognitive decline using Neurimmune's technology platform called Reverse Translational Medicine (RTM). Biogen licensed aducanumab from Neurimmune under a collaborative development and license agreement. Aducanumab is being jointly developed by Biogen and Eisai, with Eisai having exercised its option to co-develop and co-promote aducanumab on October 23, 2017.

Aducanumab is thought to target aggregated forms of beta amyloid including soluble oligomers and insoluble fibrils which can form into amyloid plaque in the brain of AD patients. Based on pre-clinical and Phase 1b data to date, treatment with aducanumab has been shown to reduce amyloid plaque levels.

In August 2016 aducanumab was accepted into the European Medicines Agency's PRIME program. In September 2016 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration accepted aducanumab into its Fast Track program and in April 2017 aducanumab was accepted into the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's (MHLW) SAKIGAKE(1) Designation System.

(1) SAKIGAKE aims at shortening premarket review period for innovative new medical products that satisfy certain criteria, such as severity of intended indication, by designating such products during the early stages of development, and providing prioritized consultation services and premarket pharmaceutical affairs review. The target review period for the designated products may be reduced to as short as 6 months, half the standard review period of 12 months for typical new pharmaceutical products.

About the Phase 1b study

The Phase 1b study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose study evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD) and clinical effects of aducanumab in patients with prodromal or mild Alzheimer's disease. The study includes fixed dosing at 1, 3, 6 and 10 mg/kg as well as an arm with a titration regimen in which patients received a gradually increased dose of aducanumab until they reach a maximum dose of 10 mg/kg.
In the Phase 1b LTE, the most commonly reported adverse events were headache, fall and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). Of the 185 patients dosed with aducanumab in the Phase 1b study, 46 patients experienced ARIA-E (edema). There were no new cases of ARIA-E in patients who continued on the same dose of aducanumab.

About Eisai

Eisai Co., Ltd. (TSE:4523; ADR:ESALY) is a research-based human health care (hhc) company that discovers, develops and markets products throughout the world. Eisai focuses its efforts in three therapeutic areas: integrative neuroscience, including neurology and psychiatric medicines; integrative oncology, which encompasses oncotherapy and supportive-care treatments; and vascular/immunological reaction. Through a global network of research facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, Eisai actively participates in all aspects of the worldwide healthcare system. For more information about Eisai Co., Ltd., please visit www.eisai.com.

Contact:
Public Relations Department, Eisai Co., Ltd. +81-3-3817-5120

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

15th JCB World Conference Held in Taipei

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(At the Plenary Session) Ichiro Hamakawa, President & CEO, JCB Co., Ltd.; Chairman & CEO, JCB International Co., Ltd.
(At the Plenary Session)
Sharing JCB strategy with 200 partner companies from 27 countries and territories

TOKYO, Nov 6, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd., the only global payment brand based in Japan, and JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCBI), international operations subsidiary, today announce 15th JCB World Conference was held in Taipei, Taiwan, on November 1 and 2 2017. About 500 people from around 200 companies and financial institutions from 27 countries and territories participated in the conference.

JCB World Conference is a biennial event held since 1988 to share JCB strategy and strengthen relationships with JCB partners all over the world. Speakers at 15th JCB World Conference included the Deputy Director General of the Financial Supervisory Commission and the Director General of the Tourism Bureau in Taiwan, representatives from leaders in the variety of industry in France, Denmark, and Japan, and top executives from JCB itself.

Title:
Position and Company:
Speaker:

JCB Strategy: Two Years in Review
President & CEO, JCB Co., Ltd.; Chairman & CEO, JCB International Co., Ltd.
Ichiro Hamakawa

Keynote Address: Cashless Transaction Policies in Taiwan
Deputy Director General, Banking Bureau, Financial Supervisory Commission Republic of China (Taiwan)
Li Chun Wang

Theme Speech: Taiwan Tourism 2020
Director General, Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, R.O.C. (Taiwan)
Joe Y. Chou

JCB Speech: The Role of JCB in Japan Tourism - Providing Unique Value for Tourists to Japan
Executive Vice President, Brand Marketing Department, JCB Co., Ltd.
Hiro Sugiyama

Theme Speech: The Magic Combination to Shape the Future of Payments
CEO, IDEMIA (France) (previously known as OT-Morpho)
Didier Lamouche

Theme Speech: Next Generation Payments The mobile journey
CEO, Dankort
Nets Denmark
Jeppe Juul-Andersen

Theme Speech: LINE SMART PORTAL and a World Actualized with LINE Pay
CEO, LINE Corporation (Japan)
Takeshi Idezawa

JCB Speech: Evolution of Payment Technologies Delivering unique value
Executive Vice President, Brand Infrastructure & Technologies Department, JCB Co., Ltd.
Tac Watanabe

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading payment card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase merchant coverage and card member base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to provide responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. Currently, JCB cards are accepted globally and issued in 23 countries and territories. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

Note: Statistics about JCB are as of March 2017.

Contact
JCB Co., Ltd.
Kumiko Kida
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp


Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Hitachi Announces Pharmacotherapy Outcome Prediction Technology for Drug Selection Support in Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

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Data-driven approach to support pharmacotherapy selection

TOKYO, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501) today announced the development of a machine learning-based outcome prediction and comparison technology that predicts with high accuracy the success and failure of various medication options for patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), in collaboration with University of Utah Health (U of U Healt). The technology analyzes electronic medical records and creates a prediction model which calculates the probability of different medications attaining a target value for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)(1) after 90 days of commencing treatment, thus potentially helping medical practitioners choose the most effective medication option. The high accuracy(2) of the technology in predicting the effectiveness of various medications was confirmed using simulation on past records of patients with diabetes.

Currently, the importance of value-based healthcare, which aims to realize both better outcomes while reducing healthcare costs, is receiving attention worldwide. In the United States, the number of patients with diabetes has risen to about 23 million, and one in four people over the age of 65 is diagnosed with T2DM(3). Treatment of T2DM spans from several months to several years or more, during which time the drug(s) selected and the dosage(s) need to be adjusted based on the patient's condition. This significant variability in pharmacotherapy regimens often leads to a trial-and-error approach in drug selection.

Hitachi has been working on developing various measures to address diabetes using IT, such as life-style modification support and diabetes prevention services(4). In this research collaboration, the knowledge and experience of Hitachi, and doctors, pharmacists and biomedical informaticists at the U of U Health, were used to develop technology to predict the probability of achieving a treatment target with each medication. In developing the technology, data from approximately 6,800 patients were analyzed chronologically from various aspects such as drug category, dosage, treatment period, weight, trend in test results, etc. Machine learning techniques were then applied to the resulting information to build a prediction model for HbA1c, generating patient-specific predictions of the effectiveness of alternate treatment options. Using the resulting model, it is possible to predict and compare the effectiveness of treatment at 90-days, a common period in the United States between clinic visits for patients whose diabetes therapy is being adjusted. As a result, the technology has the potential to support the selection of the most effective medication depending on the patient's background and condition. The technology was verified using data from another 2,200 patient files by simulation, and the highly accurate nature of the predictions was confirmed.

Hitachi will continue this collaborative research with U of U Health to realize the practical application of this technology and its development of healthcare informatics technologies that support medical practitioners and patients with improved healthcare outcomes(5). Additionally, part of these results will be presented at the IEEE-NIH Special Topic Conference on Healthcare Innovation and Point-of-Care Technologies to be held from 6th to 8th November 2017, in Bethesda, Maryland, U.S.A.

(1) HbA1c:Laboratory test value which reflects average blood sugar level for the past two to three months.
(2) AUC (Area Under the Curve) of 0.85. The area under the Receiver Operator Curve (ROC) represents prediction model performance with a value range from 0.5 to1 (ideal).
(3) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2017. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services; 2017
(4) For more information on Hitachi's services, please reference: Proof of Concept Project for a Diabetes Prevention Service in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom. A Hitachi Review, 64 (No. 1):
(5) Implementation of this technology will require due diligence to ensure sufficient protection of personal information and privacy.

About University of Utah Health

University of Utah Health is the state's only academic health care system, providing leading-edge and compassionate medicine for a referral area that encompasses 10% of the U.S. A hub for health sciences research and education in the region, U of U Health has a $291 million research enterprise and trains the majority of Utah's health care professionals at its Schools of Medicine and Dentistry and Colleges of Nursing, Pharmacy and Health. Staffed by more than 20,000 employees, the system includes 12 community clinics and four hospitals. For eight straight years, U of U Health has ranked among the top 10 U.S. academic medical centers in the Vizient Quality and Accountability Study, including reaching No. 1 in 2010 and 2016.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society's challenges with our talented team and proven experience in global markets. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal 2014 (ended March 31, 2015) totaled 9,761 billion yen ($81.3 billion). Hitachi is focusing more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes power & infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.

Contact:
Hitachi Ltd Corporate Communications Tel: +81-3-3258-1111

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

LINE Ads Platform Names AppsFlyer as Certified Ads Measurement Partner

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SINGAPORE, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - AppsFlyer, the global leader in mobile attribution and marketing analytics, has been certified as Ads Measurement Partner through LINE Corporation's Marketing Partner Program, allowing marketers to quickly and easily measure and optimize campaigns with the fast-growing mobile messaging and communication portal.

"We are excited to partner with LINE and be named a certified LINE Ads Measurement Partner, helping marketers measure and maximize their business goals with LINE's Ads platform, and further enriching their mobile campaigns," said Naoya Otsubo, AppsFlyer's Japan Country Manager. "AppsFlyer continues to offer marketers in Japan, across Asia, and throughout the world the most accurate and robust measurement tools that empower marketers to leverage our partnerships with the world's leading digital platforms. Our business continues to grow thanks to the powerful combination of our solution and partnerships with industry leaders like LINE. We look forward to contributing to the business of LINE Corporation and to helping advertisers succeed in their activities with LINE Ads Platform."

The LINE Ads Platform is a performance-based ad platform for services related to the LINE chat app operated by LINE Corporation. The service went into full-scale operation in June 2016 when it started distributing ads to the LINE Timeline and LINE NEWS. Since its launch, it has been used by approximately 3,000 businesses and brands (as of the end of September 2017) and, in 2017, LINE MANGA was added as an ad space.

"We are very pleased to have a partnership with AppsFlyer Inc., a global leader in mobile marketing analytics," says Mr. Takeshi Namigata, Manager of Ads Platform Product Management Office, LINE Corporation. "We will continue to provide LINE Ads Platform as a global marketing solution with AppsFlyer's global support system for application marketers."

LINE Advertisers can use a special admin panel to set the details (including budget, time period, user attributes, and creatives) and make bids, and the LINE Ads Platform system chooses an ad and shows it to users. By switching to a performance-based ad system, many more businesses are now able to post ads, which they were previously unable to due to limitations on the numbers of slots, or for budgetary reasons. Further, since advertisers can monitor their ad displays, their effects, and other details as they operate their ads, they can conduct promotions with limited budgets and distribute ads to fit sales prospects, goal achievement rates, and more.


What is the LINE Marketing Partner Program?
In its proactive efforts to further promote sales of the LINE Ads Platform as well as add and improve features, LINE Corporation has created this program that certifies and rewards advertising agencies and service developers under one of four categories: Sales Partner, Ad Tech Partner, Data Provider Partner, and Ads Measurement Partner.

LINE Marketing Partner Program Overview
- Sales Partner
Starting in April 2017, certifications are made under one of five ranks -- Partner, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Diamond -- based on cumulative total revenues for the preceding half year. Based on their rank, certified partners are provided preferential access to new products and sales support, and receive other perks such as invitations to LINE-sponsored events.

- Ad Tech Partner
Companies that wish to be certified submit an application and are certified based on API-related matters, such as revenues, case studies of improved efficacy, and implemented features. Certified partners are eligible to open more API accounts and given access to beta features (test features) as well as product development support.

- Data Provider Partner
Companies that wish to be certified submit an application, and LINE determines whether or not the company is qualified based on the volume of their data, including ad identifiers, the revenue from using them, the number of clients which have implemented their service, and other criteria. Once certified, partners are provided with the ability to use their own data to distribute ads on the LINE Ads Platform.

- Ads Measurement Partner
Ad measurement tool providers that wish to be certified submit an application, and LINE determines whether or not the company is qualified based on the number of businesses or services that implement the tool, the LINE Ads Platform revenue coming through the tool, and other criteria. Once certified, partners are eligible to provide measurement data and ad effect measurement features on the LINE Ads Platform.

About AppsFlyer

AppsFlyer's technology is found on 98 percent of the world's smartphones, making it the global leader in mobile attribution and marketing analytics. Data-driven marketers rely on AppsFlyer for independent measurement solutions and innovative tools to grow and protect their mobile business. AppsFlyer's platform processes billions of mobile actions every day, empowering app marketers and developers to maximize the return on their marketing investments. AppsFlyer's NativeTrack(TM) Attribution, Marketing Analytics Data, OneLink's Deep linking capabilities and Proctect360 enterprise-grade fraud solutions have made AppsFlyer the go-to resource for the most successful mobile apps in the world. With Facebook, Google, Twitter, Pinterest, Snap Inc., Tencent, LINE and 3,000 other integrated partners, and clients including Alibaba, HBO, Playtika, Waze, Activision and 12,000+ leading brands worldwide, AppsFlyer has 13 global offices to support marketers everywhere. To learn more, visit www.appsflyer.com.

Media Contact
Ren Jye Ng, Senior Client Associate
PRecious Communications on behalf of AppsFlyer
+65 3151 4760 / +65 9478 7608
renjye@preciouscomms.com


Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Fujitsu Launches Field Trial of Ultra High-Density Distributed Antenna Systems for 5G

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Figure 1: Testing site
Figure 2: Trial diagram
Fujitsu establishes a 5G testing site at one of its network business locations, conducts trials of the simultaneous, high-speed transmission of high resolution video

TOKYO, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu Limited and Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. have today commenced field trials of an ultra high-density distributed antenna(1), a technology aimed at increasing capacity for fifth generation mobile communications, or 5G. The trials, conducted jointly with NTT DOCOMO, Inc., are being conducted at a testing site established to trial 5G, located at the Fujitsu Shin-Kawasaki Technology Square, a central base for Fujitsu's network business.

This trial will utilize a testing system designed for the newly developed ultra high-density distributed antenna technology. In addition to testing that technology, trials will also be conducted on the simultaneous transmission of high resolution video using the distributed antennas. Fujitsu will evaluate application behavior on this testing system, verifying the effectiveness of this 5G technology for a variety of use cases, such as live video transmission in stadiums.

Fujitsu and Fujitsu Laboratories will be conducting this trial jointly with DOCOMO, with the goal of commercializing 5G technology from 2020.

Background

Mobile communications, whether for virtual or augmented reality, or automation such as for self-driving vehicles, is anticipated to develop even further as a technology that supports an ever-more advanced society built on new applications. With a goal of commercialization from 2020, the new mobile communications system being developed around the world that is 5G aims to support low latency communications and an increased number of devices that will accompany the spread of IoT. It promises to realize data communications speed in excess of 10 Gbps, as well as more than 1,000 times the capacity of the current 4G standards in order to meet demand in line with the explosive growth of mobile communications traffic.

Fujitsu and Fujitsu Laboratories are working with DOCOMO on an ongoing basis to conduct field trials of the ultra high-density distributed antenna technology as a means of contributing to increased capacity for mobile communication systems. They have already conducted trials such as an evaluation of communications speed when the distributed antennas are deployed in multiple locations outdoors.

Fujitsu and Fujitsu Laboratories have now developed a new testing system for the ultra high-density distributed antenna technology, with the goal of commercializing 5G technology. They are from today working with DOCOMO to test simultaneous high-speed transmission of high resolution video to actual mobile stations.

Testing System

Fujitsu developed this testing system for ultra high-density distributed antenna technology under a consignment from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications for "The research and development project for realization of the fifth-generation mobile communications system."

The testing system consists of two mobile stations equipped with displays that can be moved around the interior of Fujitsu Shin-Kawasaki Technology Square, as well as equipment including distributed antennas installed in 16 locations, centralized baseband processing equipment(2) that controls the distributed antennas, and fiber-optic cables connecting the distributed antennas with the centralized baseband processing equipment. Up to 32 distributed antennas can be centrally controlled by the centralized baseband processing equipment, and by using a highly accurate calibration technology(3) between distributed antennas, a proprietary technology from Fujitsu Laboratories, Fujitsu is able to prevent signal interference between the distributed antennas. This configuration makes it possible for the system to test technologies aimed at commercializing 5G technology--notably, the ability for mobile stations using distributed antennas to handle up to 32 streams of high capacity data transmission, simultaneously and at high speed, a world's first.

In addition, because this testing system supports IP data transmission, including video, it can be used to test applications for a variety of companies, and under the premise of a variety of situations, such as live video streaming in a stadium.

Testing Details

Fujitsu has set up a testing site for the ultra high-density distributed antennas that make use of this testing system in the lobby of Fujitsu Shin-Kawasaki Technology Square, a central base for Fujitsu's network business. The distributed antennas installed in the lobby are connected with the centralized baseband processing equipment in another building with optical fiber, and the multiple distributed antennas are capable of transmitting up to 32 high-capacity data streams, simultaneously and at high speed, to multiple mobile stations. At the beginning of the trial, Fujitsu will test simultaneous high capacity transmissions of different high resolution video to two mobile stations equipped with displays that can be moved around the lobby.

Scenes from this experiment from the floor of Shin-Kawasaki Technology Square will be broadcast by relay at the DOCOMO R&D Open House 2017(4), which will be held at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) on November 9-10.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Fujitsu5G11717Figure1.jpg
Figure 1: Testing site

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Fujitsu5G11717Figure2.jpg
Figure 2: Trial diagram

Future Plans

Fujitsu and Fujitsu Laboratories will continue joint trials with DOCOMO going forward, working to firmly establish 5G technology. In addition, this testing site will serve as an open testing environment for conducting field trials of applications to suit a variety of use cases for 5G-related technologies, including live video transmission in stadiums and real-time information distribution services in commercial facilities and event locations, working toward the commercialization of 5G following 2020.

This trial includes a part of results of "The research and development project for realization of the fifth-generation mobile communications system" commissioned by The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

(1) Ultra high-density distributed antenna
A technology from Fujitsu Laboratories that actively controls the shape of cells, which are the range of a signal, in order to improve communication quality for mobile stations through centralized control of base station antennas distributed around a space at high density.
(2) Centralized baseband processing equipment
Digital signal processing equipment that aggregates signals transmitted and received by multiple distributed antennas in a single location.
(3) Calibration technology
Technology that improves communication accuracy by correcting for the characteristics of radio frequency circuits in equipment such as amplifiers used in distributed antennas.
(4) DOCOMO R&D Open House 2017
The exhibition of the ultra high-density distributed antenna systems will be held on November 9 and 10. http://docomo-rd-openhouse.jp/e/index_e.html

About Fujitsu Laboratories

Founded in 1968 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. is one of the premier research centers in the world. With a global network of laboratories in Japan, China, the United States and Europe, the organization conducts a wide range of basic and applied research in the areas of Next-generation Services, Computer Servers, Networks, Electronic Devices and Advanced Materials. For more information, please see: http://www.fujitsu.com/jp/group/labs/en/.

About Fujitsu Ltd

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions, and services. Approximately 155,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.5 trillion yen (US$40 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2017. For more information, please see http://www.fujitsu.com.

* Please see this press release, with images, at:
http://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/

Contact:
Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Tel: +81-3-6252-2176 URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Denso: The Korea Fair Trade Commission's Announcement Concerning the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act Related to Certain Automotive Components

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KARIYA, JAPAN, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - The Korea Fair Trade Commission (the "KFTC") announced today that it decided to order corrective measures and impose a surcharge on certain automotive suppliers pursuant to the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act, in connection with certain past sales of automotive fuel pumps and variable cam timing.

The KFTC has investigated this matter at certain automotive suppliers, including DENSO Corporation and its Korean subsidiary (DENSO Korea Automotive Corporation), and the DENSO companies have fully cooperated with the KFTC.

As per the KFTC's announcement, DENSO Corporation and its Korean subsidiary were named as the suppliers involved in the conduct suspected to be in violation of the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act. However, DENSO was exempted from all of the KFTC's orders as described above, because it had completely eliminated the conduct that was suspected to be in violation before the commencement of the authority's investigation and because it applied to the KFTC for the leniency program in regard to the automotive components referred above, which was granted by the KFTC.

It is DENSO's policy to comply with all applicable competition laws. Since learning of the investigation that was conducted at its U.S. subsidiary by the U.S. Department of Justice in February 2010, DENSO Group companies have been taking various preventive measures, including implementing more stringent compliance rules, more enhanced compliance training and more meticulous compliance monitoring, in order to further ensure that they comply with all applicable competition laws. DENSO believes that it has remained in complete compliance with all competition laws.

DENSO is committed to compliance with all applicable competition laws around the world.

About Denso

DENSO Corporation, headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan, is a leading global automotive supplier of advanced technology, systems and components in the areas of thermal, powertrain control, electronics and information and safety. Its customers include all the world's major carmakers. Worldwide, the company has more than 200 subsidiaries and affiliates in 38 countries and regions and employs nearly 140,000 people. Consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2014, totaled US$39.8 billion. Last fiscal year, DENSO spent 9 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development. DENSO common stock is traded on the Tokyo and Nagoya stock exchanges. For more information, go to www.globaldenso.com, or visit our media website at www.densomediacenter.com.

Contact:
Sadayoshi Yokoyama, Toshiko Watanabe DENSO CORPORATION Phone: 81-566-25-5594 Fax: 81-566-25-4509 sadayoshi_yokoyama@denso.co.jp toshiko_watanabe@denso.co.jp

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Mitsubishi Motors Reports First-half Financial Results for Fiscal 2017

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TOKYO, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today announced financial results for the six months ending September 30, 2017, and reaffirmed its full-year outlook for the current fiscal year.

The company reported sharply increased operating profits of 44.2 billion yen on revenues that rose by 9.6% to 947.7 billion yen for the first half of fiscal 2017, representing an operating margin of 4.7%. The company also reported net income of 48.4 billion yen for the latest half-year, reversing a net loss of 219.6 billion yen in the prior-year period.

Global Sales

Global sales volume in the first half of fiscal 2017 increased 14% year-on-year to 498,000 units.

The increase was driven by higher sales in Japan, up 48% to 43,000 units following the resumption of Kei-car sales in 2016 and the contribution from Delica D:5 "Active Gear".

China sales rose 87% to 58,000 units due to demand for the localized Outlander. ASEAN sales increased 15% to 113,000 units driven mainly by strong orders for the Triton pick-up and Pajero Sport in Thailand. Sales in Oceania and recovering demand in Russia also contributed to the growth.

Increased sales in these markets offset slower growth in North America, where sales rose 1% to 72,000 units, and a 1% decline in unit sales to 89,000 units in Europe.

Financial Outlook for Fiscal Year 2017

MMC reaffirmed its previous full year financial forecast for fiscal 2017, which was submitted to the Tokyo Stock Exchange in May.

Mr. Masuko said: "Mitsubishi Motors will continue to adapt to changing market conditions, and will take any necessary measures to ensure the delivery of our full-year plan. The board of directors approved today a half-year dividend payment of 7 yen per share, as first announced at the beginning of the fiscal year."

New Mid-Term Plan 'DRIVE FOR GROWTH' (FY2017-2019)

Publication of the first half results follows the announcement by Mitsubishi Motors in October of its new three-year strategic plan, Drive for Growth. The plan is targeting a 40% increase in annual unit sales to 1.3 million vehicles and a 30% rise in revenue to 2.5 trillion yen by the end of Fiscal Year 2019. As part of the plan, the company will increase annual capital expenditure by 60% to 137 billion yen, equivalent to 5.5% of sales, and lift R&D expenses by 50% to 133 billion yen in Fiscal Year 2019.

Under its mid-term plan, Mitsubishi Motors is refreshing its product line-up. The company is launching six all-new products, with signs of encouraging demand for the first two new models in the renewal program.

40,000 orders have been placed for the XPANDER compact MPV in Indonesia, where production began on schedule in October. The XPANDER will be exported to the Philippines and Thailand from 2018, contributing to an increased brand and sales presence in ASEAN.

Exports of the all-new Eclipse Cross SUV have also begun to Europe, to be followed by 80 markets including Australia, North America, and Japan.

Alongside the Drive for Growth strategic plan, Mitsubishi Motors has unveiled a new marketing tag-line, Drive your Ambition, which will be launched in all markets as part of a major overhaul of the company's brand-marketing activities.

Mr. Masuko added: "During this three-year period, we will rebuild trust in our company as our highest priority, while also successfully launching new vehicles and maintaining our V-shaped financial recovery. We aim to continue the momentum achieved in for the remainder of the year."

About Mitsubishi Motors

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is the sixth largest automaker in Japan and the sixteenth largest in the world. It is part of the Mitsubishi keiretsu, formerly the biggest industrial group in Japan, and was formed in 1970 from the automotive division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. From October 2016, Mitsubishi is one-third owned by Nissan, and a part of the Renault - Nissan - Mitsubishi Alliance. For more information, please visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/index.html.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Motors Public Relations Department http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com +81-3-6852-4275

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Toyota Announces April-September 2017 Financial Results

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Toyota City, Japan, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) today announces its financial results for the six-month period ended September 30, 2017.

Consolidated vehicle sales for the six-month period ended September 30 totaled 4,389,435 units, an increase of 25,898 units compared to the same period last fiscal year. On a consolidated basis, net revenues for the period totaled 14.1912 trillion yen, an increase of 8.6 percent. Operating income decreased from 1.1168 trillion yen to 1.0965 trillion yen, while income before income taxes1 was 1.2521 trillion yen. Net income2 increased from 946.1 billion yen to 1.0713 trillion yen.

Operating income decreased by 20.3 billion yen. Major factors contributing to the decrease included an increase of 160 billion yen in marketing activities and an increase in expenses of 50 billion yen, which were offset by an increase of 100 billion yen due to cost reduction efforts and currency fluctuations of 100 billion yen.

Commenting on the results, TMC Executive Vice President Osamu Nagata said: "Despite the positive effect of yen depreciation and cost reduction efforts, operating income decreased by 20.3 billion yen mainly due to the effects of marketing activities and an increase in expenses."

In Japan, vehicle sales totaled 1,087,354 units, an increase of 8,544 units. Operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, increased by 156 billion yen to 641.7 billion yen.

In North America, vehicle sales totaled 1,396,158 units, a decrease of 4,211 units. Operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, decreased by 155.6 billion yen to 141.1 billion yen.

In Europe, vehicle sales totaled 469,503 units, an increase of 35,122 units, while operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, increased by 4.4 billion yen to 39 billion yen.

In Asia, vehicle sales totaled 743,939 units, a decrease of 20,811 units, while operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, decreased by 6.7 billion yen to 212.9 billion yen.

In other regions (including Central and South America, Oceania, Africa and the Middle East), vehicle sales totaled 692,481 units, an increase of 7,254 units, while operating income, excluding the impact of valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps, increased by 16.6 billion yen to 71.8 billion yen.

Financial services operating income decreased by 7.4 billion yen to 144.7 billion yen, including a gain of 0.6 billion yen in valuation gains/losses from interest rate swaps. Excluding valuation gains/losses, operating income increased by 5.8 billion yen to 144 billion yen.

For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018, TMC revised its consolidated vehicle sales forecast from 8.9 million units to 8.95 million units, in consideration of the latest sales trends worldwide.

TMC also updated its consolidated financial forecasts for the fiscal year. Based on an exchange rate assumption of 111 yen to the U.S. dollar and 128 yen to the euro, TMC now forecasts consolidated net revenue of 28.5 trillion yen, operating income of 2 trillion yen, income before income taxes of 2.25 trillion yen, and net income of 1.95 trillion yen.

Today, TMC's Board of Directors resolved to pay 100 yen per share as the interim dividend on common shares, and have also resolved to buy back up to 250 billion yen, or 45 million shares, of the company's common stock.

(1) Income before income taxes and equity in earnings of affiliated companies
(2) Net income attributable to Toyota Motor Corporation

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Public Affairs Division Global Communications Department Toyota Motor Corporation Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TV takes almost two-thirds of successful big-budget ad campaigns

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Global Ad Trends - A focus on TV

LONDON, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - WARC, the international authority on advertising and media effectiveness, has released its first Global Ad Trends Report digesting the latest insights and evidenced thinking from the worldwide advertising industry.

The first monthly Global Ad Trends report, focusing on TV, includes the following key findings:

TV takes up almost two-thirds of media spend in high budget successful brand ad campaigns

Data drawn from analysis of more than 600 case studies in WARC's database show that successful high-budget campaigns ($10m+) allocate 66% of their media spend to TV.

Additionally, with an increasing budget comes an increased proportion of budget allocated to TV. At the same time, the proportion of budget allocated to digital decreases. Low budget campaigns (up to $500k) allocate on average 8% on TV and mid-budget campaigns ($500k to $10m) spend between 25% to 60%.

High-budget campaigns continue to focus on TV, despite the rise of digital

Budget allocation to TV has remained consistent in recent years, at approximately two-thirds. This tallies with TV's share of global advertising spend, which has also remained stable over the period.

Financial services and alcoholic drinks brands are most TV-led.

TV draws 35% of global advertising spend

Data from WARC's 12 key markets - Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, United Kingdom and United States - which between them account for approximately two-thirds of the value of global ad trade, show that TV drew 34.9% ($141.8bn) of global adspend last year. This is down from a peak of 40.5% in 2010, but is just a 0.9 point dip over the decade.

Media agencies expect TV costs to rise in 2018

Data from WARC's Media Inflation Forecast, a survey of global media agencies, show that the cost-per-thousand (CPM) for a 30-second TV spot is expected to rise by an average 5% on a global basis next year.

TV CPM in the US, the world's largest market, is anticipated to rise with the global average. In developing markets, namely India and China, it is predicted to rise well ahead of the global average.

Global Media Analysis: A round-up of the importance of TV

TV accounts for:
24% of daily media consumption
35% of global advertising spend
47% of global display adspend
66% of successful, high-budget campaigns
88% of global video spend
Global Ad Trends is part of WARC Data, a newly enhanced dedicated online service featuring current advertising benchmarks, data points, ad trends and user-generated expanded databases.


Other new key media intelligence on WARC Data:
Facebook's attainable user penetration nears 50%
Martech is a $34bn industry in the UK and US
WARC's own International Forecast shows Global adspend is expected to rise 5.0% in 2017 and 5.9% in 2018 (PPP)
Mobile expected to account for 92% of global digital adspend growth this year
Russia (+10.6%), India (+10.4%), China (+8.2%) and Australia (+7.3%) ad markets to grow fastest this year and next
Marketing budgets continued to grow in Europe during October 2017, but showed weakness in APAC and Americas
James McDonald, Data Editor, WARC, says: "The advertising industry increasingly relies on factual and evidenced data to make business decisions on a daily basis. With the launch of our monthly Global Ad Trends Report, which is included as part of our newly enhanced data platform, we will provide the latest independent, objective and unbiased information drawn from actual figures rather than modelled or estimated data."


Aimed at media and brand owners, market analysts, media, advertising and research agencies as well as academics, WARC Data will provide current advertising and media information, hard facts and figures - essential market intelligence for ad industry related business, strategy and planning required in any decision making process.

WARC Data is available by subscription only. For more information visit www.warc.com/data.

About WARC

- your global authority on advertising and media effectiveness

warc.com is an online service offering advertising best practice, evidence and insights from the world's leading brands. WARC helps clients grow their businesses by using proven approaches to maximise advertising effectiveness. WARC's clients include the world's largest advertising and media agencies, research companies, universities and advertisers.

WARC hosts four global and two regional case study competitions: WARC Awards, WARC Innovation Awards, WARC Media Awards, The Admap prize, WARC Prize for Asian Strategy and WARC Prize for MENA Strategy.

WARC also publishes leading journals including Admap, Market Leader, the Journal of Advertising Research and the International Journal of Market Research. In addition to its own content, WARC features advertising case studies and best practices from more than 50 respected industry sources, including: ARF, Effies, Cannes Lions, ESOMAR and IPA.

Founded in 1985, WARC is privately owned and has offices in the UK, U.S. and Singapore.

Contact:
Amanda Benfell PR Manager, WARC Email: amanda.benfell@warc.com Tel: +44 (0) 20 7467 8125

Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HKTDC Mega Promotion "In Style, Hong Kong" Underway in Kuala Lumpur

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In Style, Hong Kong Symposium opened today (7 November) at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, engaging Hong Kong and Malaysian government officials and business leaders to spotlight Hong Kong's world-class professional services.
The two-day (7-8 November) In Style, Hong Kong Expo opened alongside the Symposium at the same venue, showcasing branded home electronics, gifts and premium, fashion accessories, fine jewellery and watches, as well as eco-friendly products from 40 exhibitors.
(From L to R) Vincent HS Lo, HKTDC Chairman; Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice, the Government of the Hong Kong SAR; YB Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong, Minister in Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia; and Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director
Symposium Opens Today; Officials Call for Closer Economic Cooperation

HONG KONG, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council's (HKTDC) mega promotion event, "In Style, Hong Kong," is underway in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur. Two of the campaign's highlight events, In Style, Hong Kong Symposium and In Style, Hong Kong Expo, opened this morning at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur. YB Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong, Minister in Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia; Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice, the Government of the Hong Kong SAR; and Vincent HS Lo, Chairman of the HKTDC, each delivered speeches at this morning's opening ceremony.

"The eagerly anticipated free trade agreement between Hong Kong and ASEAN will be signed very soon," said Mr Lo. "The pact is a momentous one, as the world's focus now falls on Asia to drive economic growth. Against this backdrop, the relationship between Malaysia and Hong Kong is taking on new significance." Mr Lo remarked that China's Belt and Road Initiative spans more than 60 countries, covering 30 per cent of the world's GDP, presenting massive business opportunities for infrastructure investment, financial and trade integration, as well as social and cultural exchange. "A plan of this scale also needs us to work together. To mine the potential, Malaysian enterprises can work with Hong Kong, which offers unmatched advantages," he said.

"While Malaysia develops its own economy, it is also a major player in the ASEAN community; and as Hong Kong remains a vital international gateway to the Chinese mainland, it is also repositioning itself as a springboard for intra-Asia and international interaction. As such, we each play important roles in driving the region's development as we evolve ourselves. At this special time, we are delighted to bring 'In Style, Hong Kong' here to showcase the best of Hong Kong business and lifestyle. And more importantly, we will suggest ways to turn these into opportunities for your own business and market."

Also speaking at the opening ceremony, Rimsky Yuen, Secretary for Justice, the Government of the Hong Kong SAR highlighted Hong Kong's role as trend-setting city in the region, and said he is "confident that 'In Style, Hong Kong' will foster even closer and stronger links between Malaysia and Hong Kong."

"Building on the flourishing relationship between Malaysia and Hong Kong, the Hong Kong-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement and related investment agreement will be signed very soon. We are grateful to all the members of ASEAN, including Malaysia, for their contribution in attaining our shared goal. Not only will the free trade agreement provide an appropriate forum to further enhance the flows of trade and investment between Hong Kong and ASEAN, it will further strengthen Hong Kong's role facilitating mainland China business to go global and overseas enterprises to enter the mega mainland market," said Mr Yuen.

YB Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee Ka Siong, Minister in Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia, also mentioned the free trade agreement in his remarks. "To further strengthen our relationship within ASEAN with Hong Kong, our government has agreed to ratify a free trade agreement and investment agreement between ASEAN and Hong Kong. Among other measures under this FTA, Malaysia will abolish import duties on certain trade goods and streamline our import regulations with those of the World Trade Organization," he said. "The FTA will facilitate more effective and efficient trade links between the region and Hong Kong. This is significant for Malaysia, too, to take part in the ASEAN-Hong Kong trade, which generated US$106.8 billion in total merchandise trade in 2016."

"Moving forward, we will continue to cultivate our warm bilateral relationship with Hong Kong, whose people are as close to Malaysians as any others," YB Datuk Seri Ir Dr Wee added.

A showcase of Hong Kong's multi-faceted advantages

The In Style, Hong Kong mega promotion campaign seeks to promote Hong Kong's multi-faceted advantages. Key events include the Symposium, which spotlights Hong Kong's professional services, and the Expo, which showcases products from Hong Kong's leading brands.

The Symposium has invited a number of Hong Kong and Malaysian business leaders and government officials to promote the strengths of Hong Kong's professional services. The main symposium featured Professor Royce Yuen, CEO, MaLogic; Joseph Phi, President, LF Logistics; Kevin Huang, CEO, Pixels Ltd; and Nicholas Ho, Deputy Managing Director, hpa. The speakers examined how Hong Kong's service companies can help Malaysian companies expand their business. Five thematic sessions followed the main symposium, covering such topics as e-commerce, Fintech, Smart City, Innovative Design and Marketing, and Legal Risk Management in International Trade.

In addition, a business support zone was set up at the symposium venue, with a group of Hong Kong professional service providers from the accounting, legal, marketing, finance and business services sectors offering free onsite consultations.

The two-day Expo (7-8 November) is designed for buyers and representatives, from importers, distributors, retailers, brand agents, franchisees, department stores and specialty stores in Malaysia and neighbouring countries, to source stylish products created by Hong Kong companies. The Expo features 40 exhibitors showcasing Hong Kong brands in such sectors as home electronics, gifts and premium, fashion accessories and watches, and eco-friendly products. In addition, the Expo is displaying a range of award-winning products of the Hong Kong Smart Design Awards to showcase Hong Kong's creative and design capabilities.

Strong business links between Hong Kong and Malaysia

According to 2016 trade figures, Malaysia was Hong Kong's 10th-largest trading partner and fourth-largest among ASEAN countries. In the first nine months of 2017, trade between the two economies amounted to US$12.5 billion, up 12.1 per cent year on year. In terms of investments, Hong Kong, last year, was Malaysia's largest source of foreign direct investment, with total investment reaching US$3.5 billion, up 50 per cent over 2015.

In Style, Hong Kong website: www.instyle-hk.com
In Style, Hong Kong Symposium and Speakers' List: http://symposium.instyle-hk.com
In Style, Hong Kong Expo and Exhibitors List: http://expo.instyle-hk.com
In Style, Hong Kong Citywide Promotion: http://citywide.instyle-hk.com
Photo download: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/p5zibtgvvzcn6jz/AAATAKcUKmHeIZxR1Zere2u_a?dl=0

About HKTDC

Established in 1966, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body dedicated to creating opportunities for Hong Kong's businesses. With more than 40 offices globally, including 13 on the Chinese mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a platform for doing business with China, Asia and the world. With 50 years of experience, the HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to provide companies, particularly SMEs, with business opportunities on the mainland and in international markets, while providing information via trade publications, research reports and digital channels including the media room. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Google+, Twitter @hktdc, LinkedIn.
- Google+: https://plus.google.com/+hktdc
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/hktdc
- LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-trade-development-council

Contact:
HKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department or Kuala Lumpur Office Angie Kong (KL) Tel: +60 12 203 6112 Email: angie.sf.kong@hktdc.org Sam Ho (HK) Tel: +852 2584 4569 Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Sharp Announces 8C-B60A 8K Professional Camcorder

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World's First(1): Realizes Shooting, Recording, Playback, and Line Output of 8K (60p(2)) Images in One Package(3)

TOKYO, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Sharp Corporation announces the release of the 8C-B60A 8K (60p) professional camcorder, a world's first, integrating capabilities for video shooting and recording, playback, and line output. The 8C-B60A was developed with technical cooperation from Astrodesign, Inc.(4), a company possessing 8K image technologies.

Besides the ability to shoot images in high resolution 8K (60p), this camcorder is designed to offer ease of use in shooting and recording and to lessen the burden on the camera operator in the post-recording editing process. The 8C-B60A's image pickup device is a large, Super 35-mm-equivalent CMOS image sensor with 33 million pixels. Compression utilizes a coding method(5) that exerts minimal burden on the CPU, thus enabling efficient 8K (60p)-image editing and approximately 40 minutes of continuous recording (when using the bundled 2-TB SSD pack). Because it allows real-time output of 8K uncompressed images at the same time that recording is taking place, the 8C-B60A can be used for live transmissions as well.

With this professional-use camcorder as the entry point to the creation of 8K images, Sharp is striving to disseminate 8K image content in its aim of establishing an 8K ecosystem at the earliest possible date.

The 8C-B60A 8K professional camcorder will be on display at the Sharp booth at the International Broadcast Equipment Exhibition 2017 (Inter BEE 2017) at the Makuhari Messe in Mihama, Chiba, Japan from November 15 to 17, 2017.
Major Features
1. World's first camcorder integrating capabilities for video shooting and recording, playback, and line output for 8K (60p).
2. Compatible with 8K (60p) shooting thanks to a large, Super 35-mm-equivalent CMOS image sensor with 33 million pixels.
3. Realizes 4:2:2 sampling(6) and 10-bit recording of 8K (60p) images. A compression method that exerts low burden on the CPU makes editing more efficient and allows approximately 40 minutes of continuous recording (when using 2TB SSD pack).
4. Real-time output of uncompressed 8K (60P) images can be performed simultaneously with recording (equipped with quad-link 12G-SDI output terminal), making possible live 8K transmissions and replay output after recording.
5. Built-in SSD back slot for recording media. Realizes one-person operation at 8K shooting with V-mount battery drive.

(1) As of July 2017. (based on Sharp survey)
(2) Displays 60 frames per second (progressive).
(3) The 8C-B60A requires a commercially available lens, viewfinder, microphone, etc.
(4) Business fields: Design, manufacture, and sale of video and still image peripherals and software, HDTV studio peripherals, digital-broadcast-related peripherals, and display measuring instruments; sale of modules and systems related to communication, control, and measurement.
(5) Grass Valley HQX Codec
(6) One of the standardized methods for sampling digital video signals.

About Sharp Corporation

Sharp Corporation (TSE: 6753) is a worldwide developer of innovative products and core technologies that play a key role in shaping the future of electronics. As a leader in liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and digital technologies, Sharp offers one of the broadest and most advanced lines of consumer electronics, information products and electronic components, while also creating new network businesses. For more information, please visit www.sharp.co.jp

Contact:
Miyuki Nakayama Tokyo Public Relations and Media Liaison Office Sharp Corporation Tel: +81-3-5446-8205 Fax: +81-3-5446-8206

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Sharp at International Broadcast Equipment Exhibition 2017 (Inter BEE 2017)

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A Lineup of Sharp 8K Products on Display

TOKYO, Nov 7, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Sharp Corporation and Astrodesign, Inc.(1) will have a joint exhibit at the International Broadcast Equipment Exhibition 2017 (Inter BEE 2017), to be held at the Makuhari Messe in Mihama, Chiba, Japan from November 15 (Wednesday) to 17 (Friday), 2017.

Besides highlighting an 8K professional camcorder developed with the technical cooperation of Astrodesign, the joint booth will have an AQUOS 8K 70V-inch 8K-compatible LCD TV for end consumers, medium- to large-sized 8K professional monitors (in 27V-, 70V-, and 85V-inch sizes), as well as Astrodesign products for the creation of 8K content. With the booth showcasing all the products for taking, recording, editing, and displaying 8K content, as well as examples of the many uses of 8K in our lives, visitors will experience firsthand the 8K ecosystem that Sharp is aiming to establish.

Also in the booth will be Astrodesign's 8K projector, which will project large 300-inch video in a theater setting.

Location of Sharp Booth

Video Production/Broadcast Equipment section (booth 3315, Hall 3)

Exhibit Highlights
- 8C-B60A 8K professional camcorder (developed jointly by Sharp and Astrodesign)
- LC-70X500 AQUOS 8K 70V-inch 8K-compatible LCD TV for end consumers
- LV-85001 85V-inch 8K professional LCD monitor
- LV-70002 70V-inch 8K professional LCD monitor
- 27V-inch 8K professional LCD monitor (reference purposes)

(1) Business fields: Design, manufacture, and sales of video and still image peripherals and software, HDTV studio peripherals, digital-broadcast-related peripherals, and display measuring instruments; sales of modules and systems related to communication, control, and measurement.

For more information on Inter BEE 2017, visit http://www.inter-bee.com/en/.

About Sharp Corporation

Sharp Corporation (TSE: 6753) is a worldwide developer of innovative products and core technologies that play a key role in shaping the future of electronics. As a leader in liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and digital technologies, Sharp offers one of the broadest and most advanced lines of consumer electronics, information products and electronic components, while also creating new network businesses. For more information, please visit www.sharp.co.jp

Contact:
Miyuki Nakayama Tokyo Public Relations and Media Liaison Office Sharp Corporation Tel: +81-3-5446-8205 Fax: +81-3-5446-8206

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Persta Resources Discovers Targeted Reservoirs with Proven Oil/Gas Bearings in Voyager

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HONG KONG, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Persta Resources Inc. ("Persta" or the "Company," stock code: 3395), a Calgary-based energy company principally engaged in natural gas and crude oil exploration and production in Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, with a focus on natural gas, is pleased to announce that the Company has successfully discovered three targeted reservoirs of proven oil/gas bearing at different depths through a series of exploration activities in the area of Voyager since its listing on March 10, 2017.

The three targeted reservoirs of oil/gas bearing at different depths are respectively located at (1) the Cardium formation at a depth of approximately 2,400 meters, (2) the Mountain Park formation at a depth of approximately 2,900 meters, and (3) the Wilrich formation at a depth of approximately 3,200 meters.

Persta currently holds 23,680 net acres of land in the area of Voyager and owns 100% of the working interest in the area. These three newly discovered oil/gas-bearing targeted reservoirs provide a sustainable reserves base for the Company's long-term development.

About Persta Resources Inc. (stock code: 3395)
Persta Resources Inc. is a Calgary-based company principally engaged in natural gas and crude oil exploration and production, with a focus on natural gas. It focuses on long-term growth through acquisition, exploration, development and production in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin ("WCSB").

It commenced operations in March 2005 with the objective of building a successful Canadian natural gas and crude oil exploration, development and production company with a long-term business strategy. It acquired its first 6,400 net acres of land in an area in the WCSB in January 2007 known as the Alberta Foothills and drilled and commercially produced liquids-rich natural gas from its first deep well in this area in December 2008. Its natural gas and oil production rate has grown organically since then. As of December 31, 2016, it held 114,528 net acres of land in the WCSB, which it intends to explore through drilling in locations listed in its multi-year inventory.

For press enquiries:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Joanne Lam Tel: (852) 2864 4816 Email: joanne.lam@sprg.com.hk
Davis Li Tel: (852) 2864 4892 Email: davis.li@sprg.com.hk
Ovina Zhu Tel: (852) 2114 4955 Email: ovina.zhu@sprg.com.hk




Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Southeast Asia's New Coalition Against Piracy (CAP) Unveiled at CASBAA Convention 2017

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The Coalition Against Piracy members toast the launch of CAP.
MACAU, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Members and supporters of the newly-established Coalition Against Piracy gathered at the annual CASBAA Convention in Macau on November 7th to mark the initiation of joint work in southeast Asia against Illicit Streaming Devices (ISDs) and the app networks that underpin them.

In toasting the launch, Birathon Kasemsri, Chief Commercial Officer, True Visions Group said, "Piracy is an international issue that cannot be dealt with by a single entity or country alone. It cannot be dealt with by a single platform alone. It must be a coordinated, integrated effort. We need to create an environment where we can grow and prosper. I invite you to put all your efforts together to make CAP the new initiative in the region a huge success - because we can only prosper from CAP's success."

The Coalition, which brings together a wide range of content providers and major Pay-TV platform operators, was established by multichannel video Association CASBAA to provide a vehicle for cooperation in copyright and anti-fraud enforcement against the small streaming devices which media publications have described as "the little black box(es) which took over piracy". The illicit TV boxes have become a major drag on both traditional Pay-TV and "new media" OTT markets in Asia; a recent market survey reported that 14% of consumers in Singapore, for example, admit to regularly using an ISD. And those numbers are believed to be growing.

"The driving force behind establishment of CAP is the need for united, collective action by all branches of the video industry", said CASBAA Chief Policy Officer John Medeiros. "Sports, films, TV series, international as well as local content - everyone trying to deliver quality content to the public is threatened by the inundation of ISD boxes and apps from commercial piracy syndicates. CAP aims to bring all these stakeholders together, and work in parallel with other similar coalitions around the world."

In outlining CAP's key priorities, Neil Gane, CAP General Manager, said "Two immediate priorities will be the disruption of the ISD ecosystem at its source and enhanced intermediary engagement with both eCommerce platforms and financial processors to disrupt transactions at the point of sale. Disrupting illicit commercial transactions is a key component of any anti-piracy strategy."

PHOTO: The Coalition Against Piracy members toast the launch of CAP (L-R): Jason Chan, CAP; Paras Sharma, Viacom International Media Networks; Laila Saat, ASTRO; Malobika Banerji, A&E Networks; Kevin Plumb, Premier League; Nirav Haji, Sony Pictures Television Networks Asia; Lawrence Yuen, HBO Asia; Joe Welch, CASBAA Chairman; Birathon Kasemsri, True Visions; Amit Malhotra, The Walt Disney Company; Alexandre Muller, TV5MONDE; Rohit d'Silva, Fox Networks Group; Neil Gane, CAP; Chih Yeong Voo, Turner Asia-Pacific; Mike Kerr, beIN Asia; Keith Huang, PCCW Media; Erwin Galang, Cignal TV; Gidon Freeman, NBCUniversal; Jake Smart, National Basketball Association and John Medeiros, CASBAA. Not represented on stage were BBC Worldwide and Media Partners Asia.

About CASBAA

Established in 1991, CASBAA is the association for digital multichannel TV, content, platforms, advertising and video delivery across a variety of geographic markets throughout the Asia-Pacific. CASBAA's members reach over 500 million connections within a regional footprint ranging from China to Australasia, Japan to Pakistan. For more information, visit www.casbaa.com.

Contact:
CASBAA Tel: +852 2854 9913 pr@casbaa.com

Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

CASBAA Convention 2017 - Day 1 Wrap-up

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MACAU, Nov 7, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The CASBAA Convention 2017 in Macau kicked off this morning with welcoming remarks from Joe Welch, CASBAA Board Chairman and SVP Public Affairs Asia, 21st Century Fox, during which he highlighted the association's escalating efforts to curb the on-going regional revenue leakage caused by piracy.

"Most importantly", said Welch, "CASBAA recently launched the Coalition Against Piracy, funded by 18 of the region's content players and distribution partners".

In the meantime, CASBAA CEO Christopher Slaughter, emphasised the yet to be fully-realised digital dividends for the Asia Pacific. Additional points made by speakers during the opening conference sessions to the 400 media executives, regulators and government officials, participating in the event, reinforced that CASBAA and its Members are meeting the opportunities presented by the Asian markets for new audiences, new technologies, new business models and new content.

According to CASBAA, TV production quality is soaring across Asia. Audiences are engaging with our Members' products as never before. New ways of video distribution such as Over-the-Top (OTT) broadband services are reaching millions of additional customers across a CASBAA footprint that reaches from India and Pakistan to Japan and Korea, from China and Mongolia to Australia and New Zealand.

Operator workshops and conference sessions such as "New Ecosystems: Myanmar & Cambodia" and "OTT in China" showcased the plus side, while digital negatives were highlighted during sessions such as "Under Attack" and "the ISD Battle", as well as clear-eyed examinations of the India market and new content offerings both domestic and international.

A few other "Quotable Quotes" heard during Day One of the CASBAA Convention 2017 in Macau.

Opening Keynote:
New Wine, New Bottles: Henry Tan, COO Astro: "We need to expand beyond our domestic market, it would be foolhardy to be satisfied, with 75% of Malaysian Households. The way the world is going, is mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships."

"Last year at the CASBAA Conventions I met with Group M's Irwin Gotlieb; he told me 'Bet on transactions'. Since we have 75% market share, how to do that? Home shopping, eCommerce. We have to see ourselves as a consumer care company, our biggest asset is our customer base."

On Piracy:
Kevin Plumb, Premier League: "In the past 18 months the illegal broadcasting of live Premier League matches in pubs in the UK has been decimated."

Matthew Hibbert, Sky UK: "Site-blocking has moved the goalposts significantly. In the UK you cannot watch pirated live Premier League content any more."

Kieron Sharp, Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT): "The most successful thing we've done to combat piracy has been to undertake criminal prosecutions against ISD piracy. Everyone is pleading guilty to these offences."

Ros Lynch, UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO)
"The UKIPO provides intelligence and evidence to industry and the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit (PIPCU) in London who then take enforcement actions. We first heard about the issues with ISDs from TVB in Hong Kong and we then consulted the UK rights holders who responded that it wasn't a problem. Two years later the issue just exploded."

"While the UK works to update its legislation, we can't wait for the new legislation to take enforcement actions and we rely heavily on 'conspiracy to defraud' charges, and have successfully prosecuted a number of ISD retailers."

"The cat is out of the bag. I would encourage any government to reach out to the search engines, if they're interested in collaborating on similar measures."

Some Advice to Asian governments
"It's a matter of initiative, evidence, and political will. Always start with the evidence and to obtain strong evidence you must work with the rights holders making it easier to show the government that this is a problem, and convince them to contribute to taking meaningful enforcement actions."

On New Content New Platforms:
Hosi Simon, VICE Media: "The business isn't in some regional office where people send out emails, it's about local offices building local content."

"What VICEice trades in is being able to identify emerging trends - artists, music, movements - that young people care about. We trade on an understanding about cultural diversity and nuance, and we don't believe there is just one global lens, the excitement is about the local story."

On Security:
Mallory Delaporte-Bernues, TV5Monde: "Media companies, do not have the same security measures, as the financial industry which makes them low-hanging fruit for hackers... You know that black screen you never want to see in your office? When we turned our network back on, that's what happened... You shouldn't let your company do anything new until you've covered security."

Matt Polins, CMS: "It's not a question of if it will happen, but when it will happen. The key is how you respond to it when it happens... You shouldn't be afraid of adopting new technologies, but be aware of the risks involved and plan accordingly."

The Death Of Television?:
Sam Scott: The Promotion Fix @ The Drum: "As Ad Contrarian Bob Hoffman said, we need to counter the falsehood that TV is dying by pointing out that it's having babies."

"Marketers are not normal people. We love social media, but most people do not. 93% of marketers are on LinkedIn. Among everyone else, it's 14%. 81% of marketers use Twitter. Everyone else, 22%."

"The marketing industry has its own 'fake news' problem. Too many marketers - especially in digital marketing - accept what is said in our industry's echo chamber without thinking critically or asking for evidence."

"Don't let those who are biased towards digital mediums and tactics frame the debate."

On C-band and Satellite:
Huang Baozhong, APT Satellite: "With complementary OTT services, we add value instead of lowering prices."

"If other countries will follow [the US/FCC]: Japan, Europe, Australia, Korea and others... this will completely destroy the broadcasting industry in C-band."

Raymond Chow, ABS: "C-band is a precious resource, not only for broadcast, but also mission-critical for military applications."

On OTT:
Greg Armshaw, BrightCove: "Really start understanding your customer base is the essential to selling OTT.... Even though there are free offers, not everyone is signing up to it, so personalised offers, being flexible about bundling and looking at marketing partnerships are key..."

Rohit d'Silva, Fox Network Group: "Data science is now front and centre for a multitude of industries. In the media industry the sooner they understand that data science is a huge part their operations, then they won't get left behind."

Uday Sodh: Sony India: "There is a huge mindset change required, when you move from traditional broadcast business, to digital platforms. You have to deal with the huge explosion of data that you develop."


In addition to the CASBAA Convention 2017 business sessions, "Desperate for Love", produced by Yomiuri Telecast and broadcast by NIPPON TV of Japan, was announced as the winner of the CASBAA/ABU UNICEF Child Rights Award 2017 for the best children's television programming and coverage of children's issues produced in the Asia Pacific.

Day 2 of the Casbaa Convention 2017 in Macau, audience and speakers will reconvene at 9.00am at the Ball Room, Studio City. We look forward to seeing you.

CASBAA would like to thank CASBAA Convention 2017's Supporting Sponsor, TRT World, along with our other Sponsors: 21st Century Fox, ABS, Amagi, APT Satellite, ARRIS, AsiaSat, Australia Channel, Brightcove, Cisco, CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang, Deutsche Welle, The Walt Disney Company, FashionTV, FOX Networks Group, France 24, Friend MTS, Google, Intelsat, INVIDI Technologies, Irdeto, Leyard, Lightning International, MEASAT, MPP Global, NAGRA, SES, True Visions, Turner Asia Pacific, TV5MONDE, Viaccess-Orca, Vindicia and Viu.

We would also like to thank CASBAA Patrons: A+E Networks, Astro, BAM Asia Entertainment Network, BBC Worldwide, Celestial Tiger, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, HBO Asia, NBCUniversal International Networks, PwC, Scripps Networks Interactive Asia-Pacific, Star India, and Viacom International Media Networks.

About CASBAA

Established in 1991, CASBAA is the association for digital multichannel TV, content, platforms, advertising and video delivery across a variety of geographic markets throughout the Asia-Pacific. CASBAA's members reach over 500 million connections within a regional footprint ranging from China to Australasia, Japan to Pakistan. For more information, visit www.casbaa.com.

Contact:
CASBAA Tel: +852 2854 9913 pr@casbaa.com

Copyright 2017 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

NEC Improves Workplace Efficiency with AR Solution Utilizing Smart Glasses

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Pharmacy demonstration test
Overview of the "eyes-free" ARmKeypad
TOKYO, Nov 8, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) today announced the development of an Augmented Reality (AR) solution to assist users with the selection of items through the use of smart glasses, a smart watch and new "ARmKeypad"(1) functions. This solution enables users to perform tasks without having to look away from objects, making it ideal for use in manufacturing, logistics and other industries. Currently, NEC is carrying out demonstration tests at a hospital pharmacy(2) and a manufacturing floor, where it has confirmed a reduction in workplace errors and working time thanks to the assistance of the new solution.

"In contrast to NEC's original ARmKeypad, which created a virtual selection screen on a user's arm, the 'eyes-free' ARmKeypad in this solution displays an input selection screen on a pair of smart glasses. As a result, users can make selections simply by inclining and touching their arm, which allows work to be completed without the need to look away from objects. This is very helpful in workplaces where mistakes are likely to occur due to eye movements or workplaces where working speed is required," said Hiroshi Kuzuno, General Manager, System Integration & Services Market Development Division, NEC Corporation.

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Pharmacy demonstration test

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_NECeyesfreeARmKeypap.jpg
Overview of the "eyes-free" ARmKeypad

Features of the solution are described below:

1. Visualizes work procedures
The solution capitalizes on AR in order to display work procedures on a pair of smart glasses, such as guiding users to the location of objects stored on a shelf. This improves the efficiency of operations and reduces mistakes, even for inexperienced workers and in workplaces where tasks often change.

2. Allows "eyes-free" operation
The solution enables input operations to take place through the accelerometer of a smart watch worn by users. Changes in the incline of a user's arm can be understood in order to select items from a menu screen displayed on a pair of smart glasses. Finger contact with the arm can also be used to make selections. This allows for confirmation and registration to take place without looking away from an object.

NEC is carrying out demonstration tests of this solution at a hospital pharmacy and a manufacturing floor, where it has confirmed a reduction in workplace errors and working time.

1) Demonstration test at a hospital pharmacy
NEC is conducting a demonstration test aimed at preventing work errors when selecting drugs in a hospital pharmacy. The system reads barcodes on prescriptions with a camera on the glasses, displays a drug selection list on the glasses, and provides guidance about which drug on which shelf is to be selected. This is done using AR when the operator looks at the medicine cabinet. As a user of the solution picks up a drug, they are able to confirm and register the item by inclining their arm. This has confirmed that selection errors could be reduced to virtually zero. Using conventional methods, approximately five errors are assumed per 300 operations daily(3).

2) Demonstration test at a manufacturing floor
A demonstration test is being conducted at NEC Networks & System Integration Corporation in order to ensure efficient management of equipment. The solution assists in locating equipment from cabinets where it is temporarily stored using an AR guidance display. The demonstration test confirmed that work time could be reduced by 18.2% when compared to conventional methods.

Notes:
(1) NEC develops new user interface that turns arm into virtual keyboard
http://www.nec.com/en/press/201511/global_20151105_04.html
(2) The system built for verification is not certified as medical equipment
(3) The technical verification was carried out in a limited environment, and the number of errors is an estimation based on measured values. Before providing drugs, multiple confirmations are conducted. The number does not represent cases of actual medication errors.

About NEC Corporation

NEC Corporation is a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies that benefit businesses and people around the world. By providing a combination of products and solutions that cross utilize the company's experience and global resources, NEC's advanced technologies meet the complex and ever-changing needs of its customers. NEC brings more than 100 years of expertise in technological innovation to empower people, businesses and society. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.

Based on its Mid-term Management Plan 2015, the NEC Group globally provides "Solutions for Society" that promote the safety, security, efficiency and equality of society. Under the company's corporate message of "Orchestrating a brighter world," NEC aims to help solve a wide range of challenging issues and to create new social value for the changing world of tomorrow. For more information, please visit http://www.nec.com/en/global/about/solutionsforsociety/message.html.

Contact:
NEC Seiichiro Toda s-toda@cj.jp.nec.com +81-3-3798-6511

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

First Driving Behavior-based Telematics Automobile Insurance Developed for Toyota Connected Cars in Japan

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Toyota "Tsunagaru" Car Insurance Plan: Service structure
Features of the insurance plan
Toyota City, Japan, Nov 8, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation and the MS&AD Insurance Group's Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance Co., Ltd. have jointly developed Japan's first driving behavior-based telematics automobile insurance. The plan is available to owners of certain units of Toyota connected cars(1), and uses driving data gathered via telematics(2) technologies to adjust insurance premiums based on the level of safe driving every month. Total insurance premiums comprise a combination of basic insurance premiums and usage-based insurance and, under this new plan up to 80 percent(3) of usage-based insurance premiums can be discounted. In addition to driving behavior discounts, various services are to be provided under the concepts of "enjoyment," "benefits," and "safeguards." The service is scheduled to go on sale on January 15, 2018, while insurance liability is scheduled to commence in April 2018.

Both Toyota and Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance intend to contribute to the realization of a safe and secure traffic environment for society through the development and provision of telematics automobile insurance that utilizes connected cars and automobile big data.

(1) Vehicles that are equipped with navigation systems from which Toyota can gather driving data, and which have the ability to connect to the internet, are eligible for the new insurance plan.
(2) Derived from the words "telecommunications" and "informatics," "telematics" refers to systems that provide various types of information and services using vehicle onboard devices, such as navigation systems and GPS, and mobile communications systems.
(3) The discount rate for the entire premium depends on the annual mileage. For example, if the annual mileage is 8,000 km the discount will be about 9 percent

1. Development background and aims

The advance of telematics technologies has led to major changes in the automobile landscape, such as the creation of a variety of new products and services that utilize automobile driving data.

Overseas, particularly in Europe and the U.S., there has been an increase in the number of automobile insurance policies that utilize telematics technologies to provide discounted insurance premiums based on levels of safe driving. In Japan, too, the government is advocating the use of automobile insurance that leverages telematics technologies as a means of reducing the number of accidents. Consequently, automakers and IT companies are engaged in lively competition for technological development.

Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance is a pioneer of telematics automobile insurance in Japan. In 2004, the company launched a distance-based automobile insurance that utilized Toyota's telematics technologies. In March 2015, it purchased Box Innovation Group Limited (BIG), a major U.K. telematics insurance company, and has taken advantage of its newly acquired knowhow to research and develop the latest telematics automobile insurance and services.

Toyota has declared the three pillars of its connected strategy to be: connecting all cars; the creation of new value and business revolution; and the creation of new mobility services. Through the development of connected cars, which are equipped with data communication modules (DCM) required for transmitting data, Toyota provides connected services that utilize big data. This has enabled the company to engage in the creation of new value for a mobility society and, at the same time, to aim to realize the ultimate goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and injuries. To this end, Toyota has promoted the development of advanced safety technologies such as Toyota Safety Sense and ICS, increased the number of models equipped with these technologies and, together with Toyota dealers, commenced Support Toyota programs--educational traffic safety activities aimed at enhancing customer safety and peace of mind.

The telematics automobile insurance developed jointly by Toyota and Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance utilizes a variety of driving data gathered from Toyota's connected cars. By including driving behavior discounts via telematics technologies, and by providing a safe and secure service that benefits all drivers, the two companies aim to realize a safe and secure traffic environment for society.

2. Overview of new products and services

The new insurance plan was jointly developed by Toyota and Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance with the aim of realizing a safe and secure traffic environment for society, and of providing their customers with a fulfilling car life based on enjoyment, benefits, and safeguards. The insurance plan forms part of the appeal of Toyota's connected cars.

1) Product name
- Toyota "Tsunagaru" (Connected) Car Insurance Plan (eligible: Toyota dealers)
- G-Link automobile insurance (eligible: Lexus dealers)

2) Eligible vehicles
Toyota connected cars (including Lexus vehicles) from which Toyota can gather self-determined driving data.
- Toyota: The line-up will gradually be expanded, beginning with the Crown, which is scheduled for launch in summer 2018
- Lexus: All new models sold from January 2018 onwards are eligible (excluding the HS and LC; certain existing models are also eligible)

3) How the service is provided
Toyota's connected cars automatically transmit a variety of car-related data via a DCM to the Toyota Smart Center. Utilizing this vehicle driving data, Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance will provide a new service that is unique to Toyota vehicles.

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Toyota "Tsunagaru" Car Insurance Plan: Service structure

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Features of the insurance plan

4) Features of the insurance plan
Until now, automobile insurance plans have focused on providing peace of mind to customers whose actions had caused traffic accidents. However, by providing a service that makes use of telematics technologies, Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance aims to generate added value (active safety) for customers whose actions have not caused traffic accidents.

The company provides each customer with a safe driving diagnosis service in a timely manner in order to encourage safe driving and prevent traffic accidents from occurring.

The enjoyment of safe driving

Drive Report: Tips that can be checked after every drive

- Safe driving score and tips
After each drive, the driver's speed, acceleration, and braking are evaluated on a five-point scale. A combined safe driving score out of 100 is also provided.

- Drive report map
The report map enables drivers to verify both the route taken and locations where dangerous driving was detected and provides simple tips on each aspect of the user's driving.

This feature enables drivers to review their drives immediately after they have finished and encourages safe driving.

- Vehicle information alerts
These alerts provide information on the operational state of active safety devices, tire pressure, electronic key charge status, among other items.

The feature not only supports safe driving, but also helps keep the car in a safe and secure state.

Monthly report: Detailed evaluation that enables drivers to review their monthly driving results

- Safe driving score and insurance premiums
The driver's speed, acceleration, and braking are evaluated on a five-point scale based on the monthly driving conditions. A combined safe driving score out of 100 is also provided.

Insurance premium discounts are determined based on the driver's safe driving score.

- Safe driving advice
Detailed feedback is provided based on the previous month's driving data. Feedback is personalized for each customer and depends on his or her driving characteristics.

The benefits of safe driving

Newly established discounts based on driving characteristics

The new, to-be-launched discounts based on driving characteristics are deducted from insurance premiums according to monthly driving distance and driving characteristics (with negatives including excessive speed, sudden acceleration, and sudden braking being taken into account). This information is based on driving data gathered via Toyota's connected cars.

There are no eligibility restrictions based on contract conditions, such as driving a car that is not part of a commercial fleet or being a new or existing customer. For this reason, individuals who possess a Toyota connected car are eligible for the plan, and are eligible to receive "driving behavior discounts = safe driving incentives" on top of any existing discount rates.

- Example of insurance premium
In the case of an insurance plan in which the insurance rating is 10, the period in which the accident coefficient can be applied is zero years, vehicle operation is restricted to drivers 26 years of age or higher, and annual driving distance is capped at 8,000 km.

Note: Insurance premium discounts are capped at 80 percent of usage-based insurance premiums.

Safeguarding loved ones

Real-time support during emergency situations

- Automatic emergency report service
Previously, when customers were involved in an accident, they had to call their insurance company themselves.

However, under this plan, if a large collision is detected, staff at a specialized Automatic Report Desk place a "safety confirmation phone call" and make any necessary arrangements in a speedy manner to reduce the burden on the customer.

Also, customers can opt not to receive safety confirmation phone calls, in which case Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance will then send emergency contact information by email. When directly contacted by the customer, the company will make emergency tow truck arrangements, accident reports, and rental car arrangements as necessary.

Coordination with accident and inquiry help desk

When customers encounter difficulties with accidents or have inquiries, Toyota's T-Connect operator service, Lexus' Lexus Owners Desk, and Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance's dedicated help desk coordinate with each other to provide seamless support.

Safeguard Support: Notifying family members in the event of an accident

- Information sharing service for family members
The safe driving score, evaluation of driving characteristics, and safe driving advice can be provided in the form of a monthly report sent by email to families worried about children who have recently acquired driver's licenses, parents living far away, or other parties. This enables family members to monitor the customer's driving habits and allows the service to be used in activities aimed at safe driving.

Also, in the event of an accident, the results of the initial response to the accident, such as details of the accident and whether there were any injuries, are sent by email.

Entertainment service that enables customers to experience the joy of driving (scheduled for launch in December 2018 or later)

Customers will be notified of their national ranking in terms of their safe driving score, as well as their ranking among drivers of the same car model, age, and prefecture.

A Safe Driving Campaign will also be implemented, and customers who achieve score and ranking thresholds will be given prizes.

This service aims to enable customers to experience the joy of driving, and to promote safe driving while having fun.

5) Commencement of sales
Sales of the new insurance plan are scheduled to commence on January 15, 2018. Insurance liability is scheduled to commence in April 2018.

About Toyota

Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2013, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 170 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

Contact:
Public Affairs Division Global Communications Department Toyota Motor Corporation Tel: +81-3-3817-9926

Copyright 2017 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

PT. Hitachi Asia Indonesia Launches Intelligent Video Analysis System

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Application example of Intelligent Video Analysis System
TOKYO, Nov 8, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - PT. Hitachi Asia Indonesia, a branch of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), today announced the launch of an Intelligent Video Analysis System for Indonesia. This system analyzes facial images captured by security cameras to identify persons of interest in real time.

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Application example of Intelligent Video Analysis System

Security efforts in public spaces have heightened across many countries. In Indonesia, there is a growing demand for measures to ensure and enhance safety in urban areas and large-scale facilities such as airports, sea ports, office buildings, schools, shopping malls, and other public areas. To meet these needs, systems that use security camera footages to detect suspicious individuals have gradually become more commonplace. However, it can be difficult for these systems to identify specific persons if the images were taken in the dark, or if the person is very far from the camera. In light of such challenges, there is a need to improve the identification rate of photos.

This system launched will quickly extract images of the same individual by performing similar-image searches and comparing facial images acquired from security cameras to a database of accumulated facial images in real time. Utilizing Hitachi's proprietary high-speed search technology for similar images(1), this system can extract similar images even if the image captured differs from the original. For instance, the person of interest can still be identified if the brightness of the image or the angle of the person's face captured is different. Users of this system can also display results by filtering data according to image data, camera ID and time frame, which reduces manual work and improves monitoring efficiency and accuracy. Furthermore, searches for images taken immediately before or after the captured image can be done.

By introducing this system to the monitoring operations of public or large-scale facilities, the investigation of persons of interest can be made more efficient and monitoring tasks can be enhanced. Through the provision of this system via vendors and partners, PT. Hitachi Asia Indonesia hopes to contribute to a stronger security and crime prevention scene in public spaces to create a safe and secure society.

(1) The high-speed similar image search technology was developed by Hitachi. This technology manages similar images by grouping them together, allowing them to be read quickly and comprehensively.

About Intelligent Video Analysis System

This system can quickly extract images of an individual through similar-image searches conducted across a database of accumulated facial images. This system analyzes facial images acquired by security cameras, and identifies, in real time, individuals specified in advance by the user.

Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2017 JAKARTA

Hitachi will hold the "Hitachi Social Innovation Forum 2017 JAKARTA" on November 8 at Raffles Jakarta, Indonesia, where the Intelligent Video Analysis System will be exhibited.

About Hitachi Asia Ltd.

Hitachi Asia Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., is headquartered in Singapore. With offices across seven Asean countries - Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - the company is focused on its Social Innovation Business to answer society's challenges. Hitachi Asia and its subsidiary companies offer a broad range of information & telecommunication systems, power systems, social infrastructure & industrial systems, electronic systems and equipment, construction machinery, high functional materials and components, automotive systems, home appliances and others. For more information on Hitachi Asia, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com.sg.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, delivers innovations that answer society's challenges with our talented team and proven experience in global markets. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal 2014 (ended March 31, 2015) totaled 9,761 billion yen ($81.3 billion). Hitachi is focusing more than ever on the Social Innovation Business, which includes power & infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high functional materials & components, automotive systems, healthcare and others. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at www.hitachi.com.

Contact:
Hitachi Ltd Corporate Communications Tel: +81-3-3258-1111

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