Quantcast
Channel: ACN Newswire
Viewing all 17131 articles
Browse latest View live

Fujitsu Receives Order for Supercomputer System from the Institute of Fluid Science at Tohoku University

$
0
0

TOKYO, Nov 10, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu today announced that it has received an order for "The Supercomputer System" from the Institute of Fluid Science at Tohoku University.

The Supercomputer System will consist of multiple computational systems using the latest Fujitsu Server PRIMERGY x86 servers, and is planned to deliver a peak theoretical performance in excess of 2.7 petaflops(1).

The Supercomputer System will be deployed to the Advanced Fluid Information Research Center in the Institute of Fluid Science, Tohoku University in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, with plans to begin operations in fiscal 2018. Through deployment and operations of this system, Fujitsu will support the Tohoku University Institute of Fluid Science in the advancement of its research into the phenomena of fluids in a variety of fields, including biology, energy, aerospace and semiconductors.

Background

The Institute of Fluid Science at Tohoku University has contributed to the development of fluid science in a variety of fields, including clarifying the flow of blood through the body, and controlling plasma flow in semiconductor manufacturing, using a next-generation integrated research method that unites creative experimental research with supercomputer-based computational research.

Now, the institute is upgrading and significantly improving the performance of its core equipment, The Supercomputer System, in order to further enhance its fluid science research in fields such as health, welfare and medicine, the environment and energy, aerospace and manufacturing.

Fujitsu received the order for this system based on a proposal that combined software-based virtualization technology with a large-scale computational system that utilizes the technology Fujitsu has cultivated through HPC development.

Details of the New System

The Supercomputer System is comprised of the core supercomputer which has three computation systems, including two shared-memory parallel computation systems, which can use large capacity memory space, and one distributed-memory parallel computation system, which can execute large-scale parallel programs. It also has a login server and application and remote graphics server, as well as software and a variety of subsystems for tasks such as visualization and storage. The three computation systems in the core supercomputer will consist of Fujitsu's latest PRIMERGY x86 servers, which are planned to deliver the distributed-memory parallel computation system's theoretical peak performance in excess of 2.7 petaflops. In addition, by employing a water cooling model, this system will also offer high energy efficiency.

(1) Petaflops
Quadrillion floating point operations per second.

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

DOCOMO to Use Drones for Safe, Efficient Inspection of Infrastructure

$
0
0

- Invests in PRENAV through subsidiary DOCOMO Ventures -

TOKYO, Nov 10, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. and its wholly owned subsidiary NTT DOCOMO Ventures, Inc. has announced that as part of the DOCOMO Drone Project, which was launched in October 2016 to facilitate the use of automatic-pilot drones, including enhanced infrastructure inspections featuring standardized quality, greater efficiency and the elimination of injury due to human error, DOCOMO, through NTT DOCOMO Ventures, invested in PRENAV, INC. on November 9.

PRENAV, which is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, develops precision-guided drones for infrastructure inspection. Leveraging a proprietary LIDAR scanner and guidance system, PRENAV's drones are capable of automated flight in close proximity to structures, or indoors (i.e. in GPS-denied environments). The company's unique technology enables industrial asset owners and service providers to scale drone-based inspections across their workforce, relying on automation to ensure safe, accurate flight and efficient image processing, 3D reconstruction, measurement and analysis. PRENAV is actively inspecting mobile phone towers and energy infrastructure in the United States, and this investment marks PRENAV's expansion to Japan.

In October 2017, as a first step in the DOCOMO Drone Project, DOCOMO began using manually operated drones on a trial basis to inspect base stations, aiming to eliminate the danger of technicians having to climb steel towers and to achieve more precise inspections of blind spots. In addition to inspecting its own facilities, DOCOMO plans to leverage PRENAV's drone solutions to deliver commercial solutions for inspecting other facilities, such as piers, power plants and oil drilling equipment, and highly beneficial services such as seismic fault identification and physical asset management.

The DOCOMO Drone Project will continue to test the concept of combining DOCOMO's mobile network and drone solutions.

About NTT DOCOMO Ventures

NTT DOCOMO Ventures, the NTT Group's corporate venture capital firm, aims to accelerate innovation for creation of new services, disruptive technologies and innovative processes serving as a primary channel for startup companies and venture communities on behalf of the NTT Group, Japan's leading ICT service provider. We proactively enhance cooperation with exceptional entrepreneurs on a worldwide scale by providing capital from our corporate venture funds and vast business development opportunities with the NTT Group companies. New windowhttps://www.nttdocomo-v.com/en/.

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

AAC Technologies Revenue 9M and Q3 2017 Up 43% and 27% YoY respectively

$
0
0

Non-acoustic 9M and Q3 Revenue increased 79% and 29% respectively;
Acoustic 9M and Q3 Revenue increased 21% and 17% respectively;
9M EPS grew 43% YoY, Annualized ROE up to 31.2%;
Accelerating Capital Investment on Optics

HONG KONG, Nov 10, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - AAC Technologies Holdings Inc. today announced its unaudited results for the nine months ended 30 September 2017, reporting revenue for the period of RMB13,967.8 million and net profit of RMB3,492.7 million. The highlights and business review in the Results Announcement share more insights of the performance.

2017 Nine Months Highlights (unaudited):

- Record first nine months revenue and net profit, up 43% and 42% year-on-year respectively;
- Gross profit and net profit margin at 41.1% and 25.0% respectively;
- Non-acoustic segment, grew 79% year-on-year, accounting for 47% of total sales; acoustic segment continued to deliver growth of 20% year-on-year;
- Good progress on optical business development, unique innovative solutions (WLG) much welcomed by market. All monthly production capacity of 10M of plastic lens becoming monthly shipment volume. Accelerating CAPEX for further capacity expansion;
- Annualized ROE at 31.2%, up from 27.5% of same period of 2016;
- Earnings per share for 9 months up 43% year-on-year to RMB2.85.

Business Review

AAC Technologies continued to report new highs in both sales and earnings for the nine months ended 30 September 2017. The revenue and net profit rose 43% and 42% year-on-year to RMB13,967.8 million and RMB3,492.7 million respectively, due to solid growth across all major business segments. Sales of the acoustic segment increased by 20% year-on-year, contributing 48% of total revenue, with growth mainly driven by increasing shipments of major products and the increase in the ASP caused by wider adoption of higher specification acoustic solutions, namely stereo sound designs and waterproof features. The non-acoustic business grew 79% year-on-year, accounting for 47% of total revenue, representing greater penetration of our unique solutions into more new customers and the growth of ASP on upgrading design on this segment. New platforms started in the latter half of the third quarter and overall gross profit margin achieved 41.1%. Increased R&D investment incurred mostly in the new acoustic and optics directions to deliver innovative designs for customers and R&D expenses rose 39% year-on-year, representing 8.2% of revenue. Net profit margin was 25.0% and basic earnings per share was up 43% to RMB2.85 per share.

Being the start of the high traditional season, the third quarter would be packed with new flagship smartphone launches across different major brand names. Due to product mix improvement, strong growth in major platforms shipments has largely outperformed the overall smartphone market growth. Q3 revenue rose 27% year-on-year to RMB5,323.5 million, a new Q3 record. Acoustic sales recorded a growth of 17% to RMB2,522.5 million in Q3 compared to the same quarter of 2016, representing 47% of total revenue. Non-acoustic business grew by 29% year-on-year, contributing over 45% of total revenue in the third quarter of 2017. High profitability was maintained for Q3 with gross and net profit margin at 41.3% and 25.7% respectively.

About AAC Technologies Holdings Inc.
AAC Technologies is a constituent stock of Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index, Hang Seng (Mainland and HK) Corporate Sustainability Index, Hang Seng China(Hong Kong Listed) 25 Index, Hang Seng Composite LargeCap Index, Hang Seng Composite Industry Index (Information Technology), Hang Seng IT Hardware Index, MSCI China Index, MSCI China ESG Index and FTSE Hong Kong Index.

AAC Technologies is a total solution provider utilizing the latest miniaturized technology components across acoustic, haptics, RF wireless and optical segments. The Company is already an established leading global supplier of miniaturized acoustic components including a broad range of speakers, receivers and MEMS microphones. The Company delivers integrated solutions across multiple segments incorporating advanced proprietary technologies haptics vibrators, RF antennas and optical components. The Company's products are found in mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, and PC notebooks. The Company is global in scope with research and development centers and has established sales offices in key markets serving a large number of geographically diverse customers in the mobile electronics market.
www.aactechnologies.com

PAST PERFORMANCE AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The performance and the results of operation of the Group as set out in this document are historical in nature and past performance is not a guarantee of future performance. This document may contain certain statements that are forward-looking or which use certain forward-looking terminologies. These forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs, assumptions and expectations of the Board of Directors of the Company regarding the industry and markets in which it operates. Actual results may differ materially from expectations discussed in such forward-looking statements and opinions. The Group, the Directors, employees and agents of the Group assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements or opinions contained in this results announcement of the Company; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements or opinions do not materialise or turn out to be incorrect.

For any other enquiries, please contact:

AAC Technologies Holdings Inc.
Ricky Man
Investor Relations Manager
Tel: 852 3470 0076
Email: RickyMan @aactechnologies.com

Tina Tang
Investor Relations Manager
Tel: 86 755 33972018 Ext 68267
Email: TinaTang@aactechnologies.com

For press enquiries:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Vicky Lee Tel: 852 2864 4834 Email: vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk
Cecilia Shum Tel: 852 2864 4890 Email: cecilia.shum@sprg.com.hk
Antonio Yu Tel: 852 2114 4319 Email: antonio.yu@sprg.com.hk
Fax: 852 2527 1196



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

DOCOMO and Sumitomo Electric Testing 5G Real-Time Traffic Monitoring

$
0
0

Demonstration system
On-site test
TOKYO, Nov 10, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. and NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that since September 19 they have been jointly testing the real-time collection and delivery of traffic information using high-definition sensors connected via a fifth-generation (5G) mobile communications system for advanced driving support. The system networks sensors that have been mounted on vehicles and installed along roadsides or in buildings to collect traffic information that is analyzed in real time and then fed back to drivers and pedestrians. The results of the test will be presented at an event, Mietekita Chotto Saki no Mirai (A Peek into the Near Future), which will be held at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) from November 9 to 11.

This test is being conducted at a course within the Yokohama Works of Sumitomo Electric. Sensors have been installed along the course and in vehicles. The vehicles are also equipped with DOCOMO 5G terminals that communicate with DOCOMO 5G base stations at the course.

5G's ultra-high data rate, ultra-high data capacity and ultra-low latency enables the system to collect and analyze high-definition data on traveling vehicles and their surrounding environments, such as pedestrians and road conditions. The data is collected with high-definition cameras, LiDAR sensors that use laser light to measure the distances and positions of targets and millimeter-wave sensors that use radio waves to measure distances and positions.

The test is enabling Sumitomo Electric and DOCOMO to study how to ensure that traffic data is instantaneous and visible and how to make systems as user-friendly as possible to provide vehicles and pedestrians with safe, practical assistance.

Demonstration system
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_DOCOMODemonstrationsystem.jpg

On-site test
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_DOCOMOOnSiteTest.jpg

Sumitomo Electric is researching and developing sensors and other equipment for the collection of traffic data from vehicles and pedestrians as well as for vehicle-vehicle and vehicle-network communications.

DOCOMO is researching and developing technologies to connect vehicles and everything via advanced wireless systems, including existing LTE and coming 5G technologies. DOCOMO's envisioned 5G communications system will enable high-performance sensors to collect, analyze and provide detailed traffic information in real time to drivers anytime, anywhere.

Going forward, Sumitomo Electric and DOCOMO will continue to develop their advanced driving-assistance system based on 5G mobile communication for increased driving safety.

About Sumitomo Electric Industries

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. was established in 1897. Since then, based on electric wire and cable manufacturing technologies, we have conducted our original research and development and strenuously strived for the establishment of new businesses. These efforts have allowed us to create new products and new technologies, as well as diversify our business fields. Currently, we operate our businesses on a global basis in the following five segments: Automotive; Infocommunications; Electronics; Environment & Energy; and Industrial Materials. We have been contributing to society through environmental friendly and fair business activities globally. Further information is available here New windowhttp://global-sei.com/.

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

Rally Australia: Preview

$
0
0

Esapekka Lappi, Janne Ferm
Australia the final test for the Yaris WRC in its development season

Toyota City, Japan, Nov 10, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team will conclude its debut season in the FIA World Rally Championship season at Rally Australia on November 16-19. At the end of a campaign where learning and car development has been the main priority, the Yaris WRC will be put through its paces competitively for one last time this year by Jari-Matti Latvala and Esapekka Lappi.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaRallyAU111017.jpg
Esapekka Lappi, Janne Ferm

Rally Australia is held in New South Wales on varied gravel roads, with a combination of tight and twisty forest tracks and fast and flowing sections across open countryside. Trees line the side of the roads in many places, ready to catch out the unwary, while hanging dust can also be an added challenge.

The rally is based in the coastal city of Coffs Harbour, and begins just to the north on Friday morning with three new-look stages that are then repeated in the afternoon. Friday and Saturday end with two passes of a sea-front super special stage in Coffs Harbour. The rest of Saturday's action takes place to the south and includes the 49-kilometre Nambucca stage, which is separated in two for the afternoon pass. There are five stages on Sunday, with the second pass of Wedding Bells as the Power Stage.

Quotes:

Kaj Lindstrom (Sporting Director)

"I'm very pleased that Tommi asked me to take on the role of Sporting Director. It's a big challenge for me and I'm really looking forward to it. I've been around rallying for a long time as a co-driver, including this year with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, so I know what happens during a rally weekend. But there are also a few different things that I don't know about yet: a lot happens before the event and during the rally, while I used to be on the stages as a co-driver. So there are things that will be new for me, and I'm going to Rally Australia as a bit of a rookie in the job! The team's preparation for the event has been good and I believe we can do well there. Jari-Matti has done it many times before, and Esapekka did well there in WRC2 last year. The weather forecast shows that there might be some thunderstorms during the rally, which could make things interesting!"

Jari-Matti Latvala (Driver car 10)

"I'm really looking forward to Rally Australia. It's a nice event to finish the year, usually in warm conditions and sunshine. The stages are fast and flowing and it's a rally that I have pretty much always enjoyed. This year there will be some new sections and parts that have not been used for a long time. On Rally GB we struggled slightly but I think the Yaris WRC should be well-suited to the stages in Australia. Personally I want to go out there and really push for the podium, and if we could challenge for the victory that would be even better."

Esapekka Lappi (Driver car 11)

"One of the main characteristics of Rally Australia is the loose gravel on top of the surface, so the first cars have to do a lot of road sweeping. Further down the order it should be better, but it is really important to keep the car on the racing line. Another challenge will be tyre management, as the second pass of the stages can be quite hard for the tyres, and if the weather is warm we will need to look after them. We weren't so successful in Britain, but it should be better for us in Australia hopefully. We certainly want to have a good season finale."

The statistics (Rally Australia):
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Toyota111017RallyAustralia.jpg

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

Hong Kong Optical Fair Attracted 16,000+ Buyers, up 7 per cent

$
0
0

The 25th edition of the Hong Kong Optical Fair featured 800 exhibitors from 28 countries and regions and welcomed more than 16,000 buyers.
Fair's Brand Name Gallery housed 225 top international brands. A number of group pavilions were also established, enhancing internationality of the fair.
Emerging Markets See Good Growth and High-end Brands Tipped to be Top Sellers

HONG KONG, Nov 10, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The 25th edition of the HKTDC Hong Kong Optical Fair closed today. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, the three-day fair (8-10 November) attracted a record of more than 16,000 buyers from 103 countries and regions, up seven per cent over the previous year. The number of buyers from numerous emerging markets rose significantly, including the Chinese mainland, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand. Sizable growth in buyers was also recorded from mature markets, such as Singapore, Taiwan, France, the UK and Canada, the number of buyers from Hong Kong also grew.

Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said the results highlight the Optical Fair's role as a major promotion and sourcing platform for the international eyewear industry. With a record-setting 800 exhibitors, the fair's growing number of buyers also showed that the worldwide eyewear industry is thriving, said Mr Chau. "The global demand for eyewear products continues to climb. For industry professionals, the international Optical Fair remains a major promotion and sourcing platform. The fair showcased a broad spectrum of products and many exhibitors displayed their new and high-end eyewear designs to cater to strong market demand. There was a vibrant trading atmosphere on the fairground."

Improving Chinese mainland market, E-tailing to become a trend

Industry professionals and experts were invited to a series of seminars at the fair to examine the latest market trends and product styles. According to Euromonitor International, global eyewear sales will reach nearly HK$1 trillion this year, and retail sales of eyewear in the Chinese mainland rose about six per cent last year.

Representatives from the renowned German research institute GfK spoke at a seminar saying that the Chinese mainland consumption market is booming and that retail sales of eyewear products are performing well. With a strong appetite for luxury brands, mainland consumers are seeking stylish brands. The speakers anticipated that e-tailing will be a main retail sales driver. "We foresee that by 2020, around 40 per cent of consumers in the United States, Europe, and the four BRIC regions will be digital consumers," said Gianni Cossar, Global Director Optics & Eyewear of GfK. Another highlight of the fair was the 15th Hong Kong Optometric Conference. Under the theme "Neuro Vision Rehabilitation," two sessions of the conference attracted over 1,000 attendees.

High-end branded eyewear in demand

This year's Brand Name Gallery featured 225 top international brands and designer collections. Hong Kong exhibitor Kingvisions Ltd has been exhibiting at the fair for five consecutive years. Ivan Chan, the company's General Manager, said the company made more than 120 new contacts during the fair, including a major Hong Kong optical chain store, which wanted to become an exclusive agent for the Korean brand Fixxative and Hong Kong brand Percy Lau. Several retailers from the Chinese mainland, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand also placed onsite orders for more than 1,000 pieces.

Buyer successfully found OEM suppliers to launch own brand

French company, Light Optical, which operates six eyewear stores in France, selling branded frames, contact lenses and sunglasses, plans to launch its own brand next September. Visiting the fair for the first time, Benjamin Zeitoun, Director General of the company said he came to find OEM manufacturers and new ideas. He met exhibitors from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and France, and planned to buy about 15,000 pieces.

With the rapid development of mobile technology, e-Badge was launched at this year's Optical Fair for the first time. Buyers could retrieve their e-Badges by downloading the "HKTDC Marketplace" mobile App and completing the visitor registration. With the help of the e-Badge, visitors can get exhibitors and fair information, which provides convenience and improves the all-rounded fair experience. It also helps the environment. The Optical Fair was held concurrently (9-11 November) with the HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair, to attract more global buyers to Hong Kong and generate more business opportunities for exhibitors.

For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit: http://bit.ly/2zw5nOI

Fair Website: hkopticalfair.hktdc.com
Photo download: http://bit.ly/2mdpZZi

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 Christine Kam Tel: +852 2584-4514 Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

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

Northern New Energy Announces 2017 Third Quarter Results

$
0
0

Revenue Contribution of New Energy Business Climbs to over 70% of Total; Pushes Group Revenue Up by 53.1%

HONG KONG, Nov 10, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Northern New Energy Holdings Limited ("Northern New Energy" / the "Group", stock code: 8246) today announced its unaudited third quarter results for the nine months ended 30 September 2017. During the period, with developing into a dynamic integrated new energy enterprise as its primary objective, the Group continued to drive the development of New energy business.

During the period, revenue of the Group amounted to RMB112.9 million (corresponding period in 2016: RMB73.8 million), representing a leap of 53.1%, mainly attributable to the increase in revenue of RMB47.8 million from New energy business. Net profit and total comprehensive income attributable to owners of the Company amounted to RMB2.4 million (corresponding period in 2016: RMB13.7 million). The decrease was mainly caused by an increase in administrative expenses as a result of amortising the RMB6.9 million share-based payment related expense during the Current Period, as well as the absence of the one-off gain of RMB 5.1 million from disposal of subsidiary in the Corresponding Period. The basic and diluted earnings per share were both RMB0.07 cents (corresponding period in 2016: RMB0.40 cents and RMB0.39 cents respectively).

In the past two years, the Group was able to cement its foundation in the industry and expand the scope of its business. As a result, both the revenue and net profit of New energy business for the period recorded satisfactory year-on-year growth. Revenue from the business accounted for over 70% of the Group total, up notably from about 40% in the same period last year. At the same time, the Group continued to hire more talent and enhance technologies to pave way for it to capture more opportunities. Capitalising on its profound expertise and excellent services, the Group provided sales and installation of de-nitrification equipment for coal-fired boilers in Tianjin in the third quarter, and also completed condensate gas premixed boiler room equipment installation and debugging contracts, which together constituted a major source of revenue of the Group in the period. Sales and purchase contracts of industrial products also brought in part of the Group's revenue.

Looking ahead, in the work report of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the PRC Government has proposed to strengthen the energy conservation and environmental protection industry, clean production industry and clean energy industry. The Group believes related policies will help release more of the development potentials of the new energy industry and also present it with more opportunities.

The Group will continue to base in Tianjin going forward. By bringing in liquefied natural gas ("LNG") conversion systems such as gasification stations, the Group intends to quickly expand its service scope to cover also production, which will allow it to offer more comprehensive services and develop into a dynamic integrated new energy enterprise. The Group will continue to actively explore opportunities for cooperation with the aim of introducing LNG gasification stations in prime geographical locations while complying with increasingly strict environmental requirements, thus grasping opportunities arising from strong local demand for new energy.

In addition, the Group will actively enlarge its customer base and market share in Tianjin, thereby enrich its income sources. In the long term, Northern New Energy looks forward to expanding the footprint of its New energy business to cover surrounding regions in the north. To broaden its income streams and improve profitability, the Group will continue to enhance the strengths of its team and look for potential acquisition opportunities, cooperate with capable partners and allocate more resources to New energy business as planned. The management hopes all these strategic moves will see the Group open a new chapter of development and deliver maximum returns to shareholders.

Northern New Energy Holdings Limited
Northern New Energy Holdings Limited formerly known as Noble House (China) Holdings Limited, is a company listed on the GEM Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 2011 (stock code: 8246). In 2015, the Group began to develop new energy operations and R&D of related technologies, plus construction engineering business. The Group also operates restaurants, provides management services, and sells processed food and seafood. Also in 2015, the Group further diversified its business to cover also property investment.

Media enquiries
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Keris Leung +852 2864 4863 keris.leung@sprg.com.hk
Fanny Yuen +852 2864 4853 fanny.yuen@sprg.com.hk
Boni Liu +852 2864 4870 boni.liu@sprg.com.hk




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

Hong Kong Wine & Spirits Fair Draws to Successful Close

$
0
0

The Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair concluded on Saturday (11 November). The fair welcomed nearly 20,000 trade buyers and over 25,000 public visitors during its three-day run.
The fair features a robotic bartender at the Ice Bar for the first time to demonstrate how to mix cocktails. There were two demonstration sessions on each of the first two days of the fair, covering six kinds of cocktails and attracting many visitors.
Strong Asian Market Potential Uncorked

HONG KONG, Nov 12, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The 10th edition of the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair concluded yesterday (11 November). The fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), was held from 9 to 11 November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. A total of 1,070 exhibitors from 38 countries and regions presented exquisite wines from around the world.

Nearly 20,000 trade buyers from 70 countries and regions attended the three-day Wine & Spirits Fair, up 2.3 per cent from last year. Attendance from individual countries recorded encouraging growth, including the Chinese mainland, Malaysia, Vietnam, France, the United States, Australia and Chile. Over 25,000 public visitors attended the fair on Saturday when it was open to ticketed public visitors aged 18 and above. The blend of trade and public participants created a vibrant platform for business.

New mainland customs facilitation scheme to bolster Hong Kong's wine hub status

Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, was the guest of honour at the Wine & Spirits Fair's opening ceremony. He used the occasion to announce that wine re-exported from Hong Kong would enjoy instant customs clearance in all 42 mainland customs districts with immediate effect. The measures were previously applicable to only five mainland customs districts, namely Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

Under the customs facilitation scheme, pre-registered Hong Kong wine traders can submit advance wine consignment information online and enjoy instant customs clearance when the consignments arrive at mainland ports. The measures apply only to wines re-exported to the mainland through Hong Kong.

Benjamin Chau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, welcomed the new measures. "Since the Government of the HKSAR eliminated all duty-related customs on wine and implemented special clearance measures under CEPA (Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement) in 2008, Hong Kong has developed into a wine trading and distribution centre for the region. In particular, Hong Kong has become a platform for trading wine with the mainland, which has long been the largest market for wines re-exported from the city. As the facilitation measures have now been extended to all customs districts, our wine traders will enjoy faster customs clearance and greater certainty when re-exporting wines through Hong Kong," said Mr Chau.

"Adding to our advantages such as advanced infrastructure, transportation networks and experienced industry professionals, the new measures will further bolster Hong Kong's standing as a wine trading hub by attracting more global wine traders to access the mainland market through the city."

Asia Wine Academy debuts

To provide the industry with a comprehensive trading and exchange platform, the HKTDC organised more than 70 events during the Wine & Spirits Fair. Marking its 10th edition, the Council joined hands with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Hotel and Tourism Management to co-organise the Asia Wine Academy. Masters of Wine Jeannie Cho Lee and Steve Charters hosted two intensive courses entitled "Contemporary Trends in Wine Consumption" and "Mastering Tasting & Rising Wine Trends." At the Wine Industry Conference held on the first day of the fair, Debra Meiburg, another Master of Wine, conducted the session "Trends to Watch in 2018: The Business of Bubbles and Beyond", where speakers shared their insights on the market outlook for various wines, with a special focus on sparkling wines.

New Champagne Avenue uncorks Asian opportunities

This year's Wine & Spirits Fair featured a new pavilion organised by the Syndicat General des Vignerons de la Champagne of France, which showcased seven champagne makers from four wine regions in Champagne, France. Wine tastings were held at the new Champagne Avenue to promote the champagnes from small and medium-sized wine producers.

During the three-day fair, a total of more than 20 champagnes were showcased and 14 wine tastings were held at the Champagne Avenue. "The atmosphere at the Wine & Spirits Fair was good. We have met a lot of buyers, especially those from Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland, Taiwan and Japan who have expressed strong interest in our champagnes. We see strong potential for growth for the champagne market in Asia," said Clotilde Chauvet, Winemaker of French champagne supplier Marc Chauvet, an exhibitor at the fair.

Asian buyers thirsty for international wines

Johnson Chang, Purchasing Director of 1919 Wines & Spirits Platform Technology Co Ltd, a renowned mainland-based wine e-retailer and services provider, said: "At the fair, we have placed an order for 150,000 bottles of wine with a French exhibitor and another for 25 container loads of wine with an Australian exhibitor. The HKTDC's business matching service has helped us reach different exhibitors and enhanced our sourcing efficiency."

Fair Website: http://www.hktdc.com/hkwinefair/
Hong Kong Wine Journey: www.hktdc.com/hkwinejourney
Asia Wine Academy: http://hkwinefair.hktdc.com/dm/2017/asia_wine/1st_edm/index_en.html
Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition: http://www.hkiwsc.com/
Product highlights and photo download: Click here http://bit.ly/2hc5qHf
Photo download: http://bit.ly/2e8X81V

For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit http://bit.ly/2yR9193

Media Registration:
Media representatives wishing to cover the event may register on-site with their business cards and/or media identification.

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 Agnes Wat Tel: +852 2584 4554 Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

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

New Generation to Drive Optic Products Consumption in Europe and Chinese mainland

$
0
0

Gianni Cossar, Global Director Optics & Eyewear, GfK Retail & Technology Italy, GfK Consumer Choices, says the European and Chinese eyewear markets are flourishing and that online retail remains a fast-growing trend.
Fabricio Medeiros, APAC Regional Manager Optics & Eyewear, GfK Retail & Technology, GfK Consumer Choices, urges small-scale retailers to embrace online retail trends and cater to consumer trends when refining their business strategy.
Mainland online retail to gain momentum

HONG KONG, Nov 12, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - With eyewear now a key style accessory, the market is among the fastest-growing industries. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 25th edition of the Hong Kong Optical Fair (8-10 November) invited two experts from GfK, a renowned German research institute specialising in market and consumer behaviour research, to analyse the latest market trends and consumer habits in the European and Chinese mainland markets, offering important insights for industry players and buyers attending the fair.

Online retail a fast-growing trend

Gianni Cossar, Global Director Optics & Eyewear, GfK Retail & Technology Italy, GfK Consumer Choices said that despite the persistently weak European economy during 2008 to 2016, sales of optics products were relatively strong during the same period. Spectacle lenses recorded comparatively strong growth in sales, with a 12 per cent increase in average sold price. Contact lenses also recorded satisfactory sales and ranked second in growth. According to retail figures for the 2016 European optics market, pure optic products comprised the largest market share at 30.4 per cent, followed by womenswear brands, fashion and accessory brands, optic design brands and sports brands.

"The new generation has grown up in a digital environment, and their consumer habits are also changing." Mr Cossar said that as the new generation is accustomed to shopping online, it may impact the consumer decision-making process of their families. It is expected that by 2020, the digital generation of consumers will comprise 40 per cent of the total consumers in the United States, Europe and the four BRIC countries.

Bright prospects for high-end eyewear

Mr Cossar noted that in Asian markets such as the Chinese mainland and India, spectacle frames are the top-selling product category, as spectacle frames are regarded as fashion trends and stylish accessories. "Sunglasses have relatively poor sales in Europe, but they are highly sought after in the Chinese mainland market, where it has recorded strong positive growth." He noted that mainland consumers are particularly fond of brands that represent a sophisticated lifestyle. Among the 10 most recognised brands by Chinese consumers, six are luxury brands, with Chanel occupying the top spot on the list. International sports brands also hold considerable interest to Chinese consumers.

Fabricio Medeiros, APAC Regional Manager Optics & Eyewear, GfK Retail & Technology, GfK Consumer Choices, said that China's slower GDP growth is still higher than the global average, with the country's population stabilising. The two sets of data reflect that the country's population has grown increasingly wealthy, and its purchasing power is expected to continue rising. Citing GfK's combined research data of 10 major mainland cities, he pointed out that the mainland eyewear retail market is performing strongly. From 2013 to 2016, retail sales (excluding online retail) of various categories, including sunglasses, spectacle frames, contact lenses, and lenses, all recorded continuous growth.

Mr Medeiros noted that local brands and trade brands make up the vast majority of eyewear retail products on the mainland, comprising 83 per cent of the total number of products. However, he believed that international brands, particularly high-end products, still have a strong presence in the market. "The Chinese mainland market is demonstrating significant purchasing power, and it has tremendous potential," he particularly noted the bright prospects for high-end eyewear products.

Changing consumption patterns

With online retail prevalent in the Chinese mainland, many trendy mainland eyewear brands, including Inmix, Loho and Leimi, have opened online stores and are using social media marketing. Their products are competitively priced at about 20 per cent lower than the products available in physical stores, sparking intense competition. He urged small-scale retailers to embrace online retail and cater to consumer trends when refining their business strategy.

"Retailers may consider enriching the product variety in their physical stores and the consumer experience, to distinguish themselves from online retail. It will help further expand their room for profit." Mr Medeiros added that from the perspective of consumer behaviour theory, Chinese consumers are placing ever-great emphasis on shopping locations. Their preference for shopping in popular locations has led to many eyewear retailers moving from street-level stores to shopping centres.

Fair Website: hkopticalfair.hktdc.com
Photo Download: http://bit.ly/2jdXGc6

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 Christine Kam Tel: +852-2584-4514 Email: christine.kam@hktdc.org

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

Precision Tsugami Announces 2017 Interim Results

$
0
0

Net Profit Climbs 130% with Revenue Up by 64.8%

HONG KONG, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Precision Tsugami (China) Corporation Limited ("Precision Tsugami", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group", Stock code: 1651), the largest foreign-owned CNC high precision machine tool manufacturer today announced its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2017. This is the first interim result announcement following the Group's listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK") on 25 September 2017.

2017 Interim Result Highlights
- Net profit amounted to RMB1 billion, representing an increase of 130% as compared to the same period last year
- Sales amounted to RMB1.19 billion, representing an increase of 64.8% as compared to the same period last year
- Precision automatic lathes, the Group's main products, received wider recognition in the market as an industry leader and achieved sales of RMB704 million, representing an increase of 55.2% as compared to the same period last year
- Precision turret machines made remarkable progress in market exploitation in automobile manufacturing and other industries and achieved sales of RMB263 million, representing an increase of 116.9% as compared to the same period last year
- Gross profit rose to RMB235 million, representing an increase of 85.9% as compared to the same period last year; and gross profit margin climbed to 19.57%, representing an increase of 2.23 percentage points as compared to the same period last year
- Earnings per Share amounted to RMB0.33 per Share

As manufacturing industries in China continued to show strong demand for machine tools, the Group sustained the great momentum in sales performance starting from last autumn with each of its major models recording good results. The sales increased 64.8% to RMB1.19 billion as compared to the same period last year. (2016: RMB727 million) Among which, precision automatic lathes, the Group's main products, gained wider recognition in the market as an industry leader and achieved sales of RMB 704 million (2016: 454 million), representing an increase of 55.2% as compared to the same period last year. Precision turret machines, a major product line of the Group in the future, made remarkable progress in market exploitation in automobile manufacturing and other sectors, achieving sales of RMB263 million (2016: RMB124 million), representing an increase of 116.9% as compared to the same period last year. Precision machining centres and precision grinding machines, like many other models, also saw considerable increases and achieved sales of RMB110 million and RMB58 million, representing increases of approximately 76.6% and 33.6% respectively, as compared to the same period last year.

In addition, as the Group continues to expand its business, the increase in sales and production volumes led to economies of scale together with improvement in operating efficiency. During the report period, gross profit increased by approximately 85.9% to RMB235 million as compared to the same period last year (2016: RMB126 million); The Group's overall gross profit margin for the six months ended 30 September 2017 has increased 2.23 percentage points to 19.6%, as compared with the same period last year (2016: 17.3%). Earnings per Share amounted to RMB0.33 per Share. The Board does not recommend the payment of any interim dividends in respect of the six months ended 30 September 2017.

During the report period, the Company completed the initial public offering (including the issuance of 13,500,000 over-allotment shares) and was six times oversubscribed, receiving net proceeds of approximately HK$328 million. The Group has been listed on 25 September 2017 and its stock price has risen for over 40% compared to the offer price, fully demonstrating the investors'confidence and recognition on the Group. Net proceeds raised from the offering amounted to approximately HK$258 million, excluding the additional proceeds from exercising the over-allotment option. As the economy and industrial output value of China maintain sustained growth, the management believes that the CNC high precision machine tool industry in China will further strengthen. The rapid development of the two largest sectors that apply CNC high precision machine tools in China, i.e., the automobile and consumer electronic product sectors, will directly promote the sales volume and expansion of the industry in China. In addition, in recent years the Chinese government has continued to adopt policies that actively encourage the development of the manufacturing technology of machine tools in order to strengthen the competitiveness of domestically produced machine tools. These favourable factors have created more business opportunities in the CNC high precision machine tool industry in China.

Dr. Tang Donglei, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Precision Tsugami said "The Group will maintain and continue to strengthen market position in the CNC high precision machine tool industry in China. We will broaden the application uses of CNC high precision machine tools and expand sales network, and expand our customisation and development capabilities to develop and manufacture key components. We will improve the software, production technology and techniques for application uses and expand our production facilities and production capacities in order to keep increasing our sales volume. The Group will continue to adhere to the customer-oriented principle, provide more effective customer services with better quality and further improve its operational and financial performance of in order to strengthen our market position in the industry and create satisfactory returns for shareholders.

About Precision Tsugami (China) Corporation Limited
The Group is an established foreign-owned CNC high precision machine tool manufacturer in the PRC which primarily engages in the manufacture and sales of a wide range of CNC high precision machine tools under the TSUGAMI brands. The Group has been listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited on 25 September 2017. The Group's CNC high precision machine tools can be broadly classified into five major product categories, namely, precision automatic lathes, precision turret machines, precision machining centres, precision grinding machines and precision thread and form rolling machines. The Group offers CNC high precision machine tools that are of standardised design and specifications to its customers and is able to provide machine tool solutions to them and make various specifications and/or customisations to CNC high precision machine tools. According to Frost & Sullivan, in terms of revenue in 2016, the Group has ranked fourth in the CNC high precision machine tool industry in the PRC and was the largest foreign-owned CNC high precision machine tool manufacturer in the PRC. The Group has also ranked first in the PRC precision automatic lathe market in terms of revenue in 2016, with a market share of approximately 34.8%.




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

Nanobiotix presented new clinical and pre-clinical data confirming NBTXR3's significant potential role in Immuno-Oncology at SITC Annual Meeting

$
0
0

- NBTXR3 activated by radiotherapy induces a significant adaptive immune pattern versus radiotherapy alone in patients with soft tissue sarcoma
- Patients treated with NBTXR3 and radiotherapy show a marked increase of PD1 and CD8 infiltration
- Preclinical data on different animal models confirm broad potential of NBTXR3 as a primer of the immune response
- Strong data to support the rational for the upcoming clinical trial in combination with check point inhibitors.

Paris, France and Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - NANOBIOTIX (Euronext: NANO - ISIN: FR0011341205), a late clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering new approaches to the treatment of cancer, recently presented positive clinical and preclinical data from the ongoing immuno-oncology programs. These data were presented at the 32nd Annual Meeting of the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC), held from November 8 to 12, 2017 in National Harbor, Maryland, USA.

Nanobiotix's lead product, NBTXR3, has a universal physical mode of action which is designed for the local destruction of tumors. In addition to the physical destruction of cancer cells, recently published data suggested that NBTXR3 generates immunogenic cell death which could trigger a specific immune response to attack tumors.

The new clinical data and pre-clinical data indicate that NBTXR3 could play a key role in oncology and could become a backbone of immuno-oncology.

The data Nanobiotix recently presented at SITC from its immuno-oncology programs included:

- "Antitumor immunity in patients with locally soft tissue sarcoma treated with hafnium oxide nanoparticles and radiation therapy"[1] -- P 412

In this study, tumors from the ongoing two-arm Phase II/III clinical trial were examined both pre- and post-treatment in patients with locally advanced soft tissue sarcoma who had received either NBTXR3 with radiotherapy (more than 10 patients) or radiotherapy alone (more than 10 patients).

The results observed in the post-treatment examination of patients who received both NBTXR3 and radiotherapy showed a significant increase of CD8+ T cells and a marked increase of CD3+, PD-1 and CD103+ immune cell infiltration. In contrast, there was no difference observed between pre- and post-treatment examination when patients received radiotherapy alone.

Furthermore, a functional analysis of genes up-regulated in NBTXR3 plus Radiotherapy arm showed an enrichment of cytokines, immune checkpoints, T cell activation, and dendritic/macrophages markers.

These promising data confirm that NBTXR3 induces a specific adaptive immune pattern and brings substantial changes to the tumor immune profile in patients with soft tissue sarcoma. As such, it may convert the tumor immunologically and be effectively combined with immunotherapeutic agents across oncology.

These data strengthen the relevance of using NBTXR3 in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In September 2017, Nanobiotix announced the Company's plan to conduct its first clinical trial with NBTXR3 in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors in the U.S., with a multi-arm trial targeting a sub-population of advanced lung, and head and neck cancer patients.

- "Transforming immunologically 'cold' tumor into 'hot' tumor with hafnium oxide nanoparticles and radiation therapy"[2] -- P 413

These in vivo pre-clinical studies explored the ability of NBTXR3 to bring substantial immune cell infiltrations in colorectal cancer and breast cancer models, and convert immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors.

In mice bearing CT26 tumors (murine colorectal cancer cells), a marked increase of cytokine content and immune cell infiltrates was observed with NBTXR3 and radiotherapy compared to radiotherapy alone.

In mice inoculated with 4T1 cells (murine breast cancer model) previously treated with NBTXR3 and radiotherapy, a marked increase of CD8+ was observed in tumors when compared to those in mice inoculated with 4T1 cells treated only with radiotherapy.

Data generated from colorectal and breast cancer tumor models suggest that NBTXR3 triggers immunogenic conversion of the tumor microenvironment regardless of the molecular characteristics of the tumor. These data confirm the broad potential of NBTXR3 as a primer of the immune response.

About NANOBIOTIX's immuno-oncology research program

Many IO combination strategies focus on 'priming' the tumor, which is now becoming a prerequisite of turning a "cold" tumor into a "hot" tumor. Compared to other modalities that could be used for priming the tumor, NBTXR3 could have a number of advantages: the physical and universal mode of action that could be used widely across oncology, the one-time local injection and good fit within existing medical practice already used as a basis for cancer treatment, as well as a very good chronic safety profile and well-established manufacturing process.

After more than 18 months of development, the Company presented preclinical proof of concept demonstrating that NBTXR3 actively stimulates the host immune system to attack tumor cells.

Recently, Nanobiotix presented new translational data. Taken together, these non-clinical and preliminary clinical results confirm that NBTXR3 plus radiotherapy could efficiently prime an adaptive antitumor immune response, turning "cold" tumors in "hot" tumors. Additionally, these results suggest that the physically-induced response and subsequent immune activation triggered by the NBTXR3 treatment could be generic.

Results suggests that NBTXR3 with radiotherapy could transform tumors into an effective in situ vaccine, opening up very promising perspectives in the treatment of local cancer and metastases.

On top of the Company's core development activities, these findings could open new collaborations for NBTXR3 through combinations with other immuno-oncology drugs.

In September 2017, Nanobiotix announced its intention to start a new trial in the company's immuno-oncology (IO) program. The trial is aimed at expanding the potential of NBTXR3 to recurrent and metastatic disease.

About NANOBIOTIX: www.nanobiotix.com

Nanobiotix (Euronext: NANO / ISIN: FR0011341205) is a late clinical-stage nanomedicine company pioneering novel approaches for the treatment of cancer. The Company's first-in-class, proprietary technology, NanoXray, enhances radiotherapy energy with a view to providing a new, more efficient treatment for cancer patients.

NanoXray products are compatible with current radiotherapy treatments and are meant to treat potentially a wide variety of solid tumors including soft tissue sarcoma, head and neck cancers, liver cancers, prostate cancer, breast cancer, glioblastoma, etc., via multiple routes of administration.

NBTXR3 is being evaluated in: soft tissue sarcoma (STS), head and neck cancers, prostate cancer, and liver cancers (primary and metastases). Additionally, head and neck cancer and rectal cancer trials led by Nanobiotix's Taiwanese partner, PharmaEngine, are underway in the Asia Pacific region. The Company filed in August 2016 for market approval (CE Marking) in Europe for its lead product NBTXR3.

In 2016 the Company started a new preclinical research program in Immuno-oncology with its lead product NBTXR3, which could have the potential to bring a new dimension to cancer immunotherapies.

Nanobiotix is listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (ISIN: FR0011341205, Euronext ticker: NANO, Bloomberg: NANO: FP). The Company's Headquarters is based in Paris, France, with a U.S. affiliate in Cambridge, MA.

Contact

Nanobiotix
Sarah Gaubert
Director, Communications & Public Affairs
+33 (0)1 40 26 07 55
sarah.gaubert@nanobiotix.com / contact@nanobiotix.com

Noel Kurdi
Director, Investor Relations
+1 (646) 241-4400
noel.kurdi@nanobiotix.com / investors@nanobiotix.com

Media relations
France - Springbok Consultants
Marina Rosoff
+33 (0)6 71 58 00 34
marina@springbok.fr

United States - RooneyPartners
Marion Janic
+1 (212) 223-4017
mjanic@rooneyco.com

Disclaimer
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Nanobiotix and its business. Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that Nanobiotix considers to be reasonable. However, there can be no assurance that the estimates contained in such forward-looking statements will be verified, which estimates are subject to numerous risks including the risks set forth in the reference document of Nanobiotix filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers) under number D.17-0470 on April 28, 2017 (a copy of which is available on www.nanobiotix.com) and to the development of economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Nanobiotix operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks not yet known to Nanobiotix or not currently considered material by Nanobiotix. The occurrence of all or part of such risks could cause actual results, financial conditions, performance or achievements of Nanobiotix to be materially different from such forward-looking statements.

This press release and the information that it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe for, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for, Nanobiotix shares in any country. At the moment NBTXR3 does not bear a CE mark and is not permitted to be placed on the market or put into service until NBTXR3 has obtained a CE mark.

[1] Authors: J. Galon1, M. Lae2, J. Thariat3, S. Carrere4, Z. Papai5, M. Delannes6, P. Rochaix6, L. Mangel7, F. Hermitte8, Z. Sapi9, T. Tornoczky7, V. Servois2, I. Birtwisle Peyrottes3, R. Tetreau4, M-C. Chateau4, S. Paris10, H. Brisse2, and S. Bonvalot2. 1INSERM, Paris, France, 2Institut Curie, Paris, France, 3Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France, 4Centre regional de lutte contre le cancer, Paul Lamarque, Montpellier, France,5Medical Centre, Hungarian Defences Forces, 6Institut Universitaire du Cancer Toulouse - Oncopole, Toulouse, France, 7Pecs University, Pecs, Hungary, 8HalioDx, Marseille, France, 9Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary, 10Nanobiotix, Paris, France.
[2] Authors: S. Paris, A. Darmon, P. Zhang, M. Bergere and L. Levy

###

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.
The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.
Source: NANOBIOTIX via Globenewswire


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

mybitwallet introduces Payment Request feature

$
0
0

SINGAPORE, Nov 13, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - mybitwallet, a world-wide, online payment services e-wallet, is pleased to announce the availability of a new Payment Request feature for businesses and individual users of the mybitwallet payment service. The new feature offers an easy and convenient way for merchants or other users to request and collect online payments from among mybitwallet account holders and send custom Payment Requests with complete tracking and payment receipts which are automatically sent to both parties with each transaction.

The new service is designed for any number of everyday situations. It is for friends or colleagues who simply want to share the expenses of food and drink easily among themselves. It is for borrowers who may wish to repay their debts incrementally, or for service providers who may want to receive monthly or periodic payments. By using this service, anyone with mybitwallet can issue a Payment Request in an ad-hoc way, and make payments promptly and securely, between friends or clients or for any periodic or impromptu payments for business.

Benefits for users sending Payment Requests
Friends using mybitwallet Payment Request system can exchange funds without actually meeting, while businesses can receive a more stable collection of funds or monthly payments by using the Payment Request system. Moreover, senders of a Payment Request may limit payment methods to those available for a particular friend or client as a means of settlement.

Senders of a Payment Request can normally select from various payment methods, such as credit-card settlement, mybitwallet account, or mybitwallet plus credit-card payment, while a Payment Request may also be sent to someone who doesn't have a mybitwallet account. After a Payment Request is sent, the sender may change or even cancel the request if it hasn't yet been paid.

Benefits for customers receiving Payment Requests
Customers who receive a Payment Request won't have to visit a bank or convenience store for fund transfers, rather they may withdraw the requested amount from a mybitwallet account or settle by credit-card. Further, customers can make payments without any worry, as an invoice with details of the item(s) and sender of the request will always be attached to the e-mail.

With the release of the Payment Request feature on mybitwallet, businesses and other users will be able to collect payments more conveniently, while customers will able to respond to requests with a transfer of funds more easily. The team at mybitwallet is available 24/7 to help you with your daily payments or collections of sales proceeds.

Payment Request service flow
Businesses or other users who wish to send a Payment Request can easily send a request email with a PDF invoice attached to a specified email address. Each email also has a link to the 'make payment' page and a list of the outstanding items on the customer's account.

Customers receiving a Payment Request e-mail may easily make the payment by logging in to mybitwallet and accessing the one-time payment screen by clicking the URL in the request email from the sender. From that payment screen, payment can be easily made. The remittance fee will be borne by the user on the sending side, while the same applies if the payment is made by card settlement.

About mybitwallet

mybitwallet digital Wallet was introduced in 2016 by E PROTECTIONS PTE LTD, which was founded in Singapore in 2012. mybitwallet is a leading online payment solution driven by a team of passionate disruptors determined to create a seamless payment platform for business owners and merchants around the world and their clients.

mybitwallet aims to provide not only the world's best multi-currency, real-time payment experience for all mybitwallet users, but the world's best complete payment solution experience across all industries. Please visit our official 'mybitwallet' site at https://mybitwallet.com.

Contact: mybitwallet
Jasmine Chang
T: +65 6221 0111
E: jasminechang@epro.sg

Japan Customer Service
T: +81 3 6893 0958
E: info@mybitwallet.com



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

Tianyun International Participated in 2017 Autumn China Food and Drinks Fair; Signed over 30 new distributors

$
0
0
Top: The Group's booth and products at the Fair; Bottom: Distributors in discussion with the Group's representatives at the booth
Strong boost on Own Brand business development and sustainable performance growth

HONG KONG, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Tianyun International Holdings Limited ("Tianyun International", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") (Stock code: 6836.HK), a leading seller and manufacturer of processed fruits products in China, is pleased to announce that Shandong Tiantong Food Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, was invited to participate in the Autumn China Food & Drinks Fair (the "Fair"), As the industry's leading and reputable event, this Fair attracted hundreds of thousands of exhibitors from domestic and abroad. It is an ideal platform for industry distributors to purchase and source products.

The Group showcased its Own Brand new products including fruit purees, fruit jellies and fruit ice etc. By leveraging the natural and excellent quality of the Group's products, the Group successfully signed over 30 new distributors, and has been undergoing discussions with many other potential distributors. The Group currently has approximately 200 distributors which lays a solid foundation for the significant sales growth of the Group's Own Brand business. The Group believes that its participation in the Fair can foster direct communications with distributors around the world, refine its sales network continuously and expand rapidly the geographical coverage of its Own Brand business with the aim at bringing a strong and sustainable growth momentum.

Mr. Yang Ziyuan, Chairman and CEO of the Group commented, "The Group once again has a great exposure in a sizeable food fair and gains high attention from merchandizers and business partners, these give us an important industry recognition. Going forward, we shall continue seize the rapid development opportunities brought by our Own Brand, increase number of distributors and boost our overall sales performance by further strengthening the brand awareness and influence of our Own Brands. The Group will continue adhere to our safe and healthy food production, and develop steadily our own brand and OEM business in order to grow our business continuously and meet the demand from customers and clients, thus further strengthening the Group's market leadership position."

About Tianyun International Holding Limited (Stock Code: 6863.HK)
Tianyun International Holdings Limited (the "Company") and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the "Group") are principally engaged in (i) the production and sales of branded processed fruit products and (ii) trading of fresh fruit. Processed fruit products are sold both on an OEM basis and under its own brands - (Tiantong Times), (Bingo Times) and (Fruit zZ). On 7 July 2015, the Group was successfully listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, which would further consolidate our leading position in China's processed fruit industry.

With its commitment to provide customers with healthy and safe products, the Group have always been dedicated to follow stringent production standards and are accredited with BRC(A+), IFS Food (High), HALAL, SC, KOSHER, BSCI, ISO22000, "China Canned Product Quality Certification Label" and "Zero added preservative canned products" top-tier international and local certifications.



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

CASBAA Announces New Board of Directors

$
0
0

HONG KONG, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - CASBAA, Asia's largest non-profit media association serving the multi-channel audio-visual content creation and distribution industry, today announced the election of several new Directors to its Board, and the return of a number of long-serving Directors.

Following its AGM on 08 November, first-time Directors elected were James Ross (Lightning International), Belinda Lui (Time Warner), and Desmond Chan (TVB). Also re-elected to the Board were previous Directors Joe Welch (21st Century Fox), Andrew Jordan (AsiaSat), Ricky Ow (Turner Asia Pacific), and Amit Malhotra (The Walt Disney Company).

They join existing Directors Todd Miller (Celestial Tiger Entertainment), Andrew Stott (CMS Asia), Marcel Fenez (Fenez Media), Rohit D'Silva (FOX Networks Group Asia), and Alexandre Muller (TV5MONDE) to form the 2017-18 CASBAA Board of Directors.

"CASBAA is fortunate to have such an excellent group of subscription TV industry executives willing to serve on the Association's Board", said Board Chairman Joe Welch. "We are deeply appreciative of the long and committed service of our out-going Directors, and thank them tremendously. At the same time, we offer a heartfelt welcome to our new Directors, and look forward to working together with them to lead the Association for the benefit of CASBAA's members and the industry as a whole".

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:
Ms Kay Bayliss CASBAA Member Relations & Marketing Tel: +852 3929 1724 kay@casbaa.com

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

Toyota GAZOO Racing Braced for Bahrain Battle

$
0
0

2017 WEC Round 9 Preview
Toyota City, Japan, Nov 13, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota GAZOO Racing aims to finish the 2017 FIA World Endurance Championship season on a high with a third successive victory in the final race of the season, the Bapco 6 Hours of Bahrain.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaGAZOO111317.jpg
2017 WEC Round 9 Preview

Toyota and World Champions Porsche are level on four wins each this season, with the TS050 Hybrids having won the last two races, setting up a deciding contest at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and Jose Maria Lopez have earned four pole positions in 2017 in their #7 TS050 Hybrid and travel to the Middle East in search of their first victory of the season.

The #8 crew of Sebastien Buemi, Anthony Davidson and Kazuki Nakajima are looking for a third consecutive win, and fifth in total, following their recent victories at Fuji Speedway and Shanghai International Circuit.

The 5.412km, 15-turn Bahrain International Circuit has seen success in the past for Toyota with wins in 2013 and 2014, while Alex Wurz concluded his illustrious career with a podium there at the end of a difficult 2015 season.

Saturday's race marks Toyota's final battle with Porsche for the foreseeable future, with the German manufacturer leaving the LMP1 class at the end of the season, adding a further interesting element to an already fierce competition.

Although the competitive action concludes at the end of the 6 Hours of Bahrain, there remains one final day of action, with the annual WEC rookie test on Sunday.

Hisatake Murata, Team President:
"We are very motivated to finish the season with a victory in Bahrain, especially as that would give us the most wins in 2017. Porsche has proved their strength with another World Championship so they are clearly tough competitors. We will be pushing as hard as possible to give the fans an exciting battle for the final LMP1 competition between Toyota and Porsche. After our strong performances in Fuji and Shanghai, we are ready to fight in Bahrain."

Mike Conway (TS050 Hybrid #7):
"Bahrain is one of my favourite races so I am looking forward to going there and hopefully getting the win for car #7. We have been pushing for that all year. We have had four pole positions so we have to convert that to a win at some point. We learned a lot in Shanghai about tyre wear and Bahrain is a similar circuit in that regard, so hopefully that will be to our advantage."

Kamui Kobayashi (TS050 Hybrid #7):
"I am expecting a strong weekend again in Bahrain because we showed very good performance in Shanghai. It is the final fight between Toyota and Porsche in LMP1 so we should enjoy having another strong manufacturer to compete against. Definitely we want to win and I am confident we will have a chance."

Jose Maria Lopez (TS050 Hybrid #7):
"I know the Bahrain track from my time in GP2 and I enjoy it; I can't wait to experience the TS050 Hybrid there. For the final race of the season we really want to finish in a positive way. Our car has been quick in the last two races so we expect to be competitive again in Bahrain but Porsche is pushing hard as well so we know it will be another tough fight."

Sebastien Buemi (TS050 Hybrid #8):
"I'm looking forward to this weekend; Bahrain is a nice track where we have had good results in the past. The weather should be stable so we can concentrate on getting the most out of our car and tyres. Our car should be quite well suited to the characteristics of the circuit, with the heavy braking at the end of long straights. We will do our best to get another win."

Anthony Davidson (TS050 Hybrid #8):
"I enjoy racing in Bahrain and I expect we will again be competitive. We go there after back-to-back victories following our performance in Shanghai so we want to finish the season with a hat-trick of wins for the #8 car. I have good memories of Bahrain after winning the World Championship there in 2014 so I am looking forward to it.'

Kazuki Nakajima (TS050 Hybrid #8):
"Bahrain is the last race of the season so I hope we can finish strongly, especially for the team, who have worked so hard all year. Winning races is always a good motivation so we will go to Bahrain with a lot of confidence after the speed we showed in Shanghai. But it's another track and another race so we have to be focused and give everything to win again."

Toyota GAZOO Racing in 6 Hours of Bahrain:
2012 #7: Qualifying 3rd; Race DNF
2013 #7: Qualifying 1st; Race DNF. #8: Qualifying 2nd; Race 1st.
2014 #7: Qualifying 4th; Race 1st. #8: Qualifying 2nd; Race 11th.
2015 #1: Qualifying 5th; Race 4th. #2: Qualifying 6th; Race 3rd.
2016 #5: Qualifying 6th; Race 4th. #6: Qualifying 5th; Race 5th.

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

Joint HKUST Entrepreneurship Center and GF Securities'"All About Startup Fundraising" Seminar

$
0
0

HONG KONG, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - GF Securities Co., Ltd. (with its subsidiaries, as "GF Securities" or the "Company", HKSE: 1776; SZSE: 000776) and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Center ("HKUST Entrepreneurship Center", and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, "HKUST") successfully held a public seminar on entrepreneurship at HKUST on 9 November 2017, which attracted a large number of students and entrepreneurs.

GF Securities has been actively devoting itself to student entrepreneurship activities. Leveraging on its advantages and experiences in China's capital market for years, the Company spares no effort to deliver entrepreneurial knowledge to young people as well as to support them in realizing their dreams. Since the Company started to sponsor and participate in "The Seventh Annual HKUST One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition" in April this year, GF Securities, adhering to its company principle of giving back to society, continues to work jointly with HKUST to hold the seminar entitled "All About Startup Fundraising". Mr. Steven Ma, managing director of GF Securities holdings (Hong Kong) investment subsidiary and co-head of global direct investment and Leo Chiu, entrepreneur and angel investor, attended the seminar and made the main speeches, sharing successful experience and expertise of startup fundraising with a crowd of young entrepreneurs on campus.

During the seminar, Mr. Steven Ma, the representative from GF Securities, introduced the investment cases of GF Securities in Hong Kong and China, so as to enlighten university students on the development of startups from the perspective of investors. At the same time, for students having ambitions to start their businesses, Mr. Ma explained that venture capital can bring different values to startups in addition to funding, such as entrepreneurial market opportunities, team building and business management experience. Also, he introduced the venture capital eco-system under the synergies of different investees. Another speaker, Leo, from the perspective of a successful entrepreneur, shared his excellent entrepreneurial experience in the United States and analyzed how to attract investors from the angle of an angel investor. Leo revealed the decision-making process of angel investors in business investments, and also explained the factors that may affect the decision-making of investors. Meanwhile, he demonstrated to new startup entrepreneurs the key indicators of a business in initial phase of operation.

Wonderful speeches followed by a heated Q & A section, participants had a full interaction with the guest speakers. Through the seminar, the university students learned about the essence of operating a startup company, and studied the cases of starting business in markets of Hong Kong, the Mainland China and the United States, thereby acquiring clear guidelines for their entrepreneurial blueprint in the future.

When talking about the seminar, Mr. Lin Zhihai, President of GF Securities and Chairman of GF Securities Social Charity Foundation, said, "We are very honored to collaborate with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. As an international research university, HKUST is closely linked to global thinkers and Mainland China. Over the years, GF Securities has always adhered to the core propositions of corporate citizens, and we have engaged in public welfare while continuously developing and expanding our businesses. Collaborating with HKUST and leveraging on the strengths of both sides, GF Securities helps to boost the growth of a new generation of young entrepreneurs. In the future, while continuously creating values for shareholders and customers, GF Securities will undertake corporate social responsibilities to achieve the unification of social and economic benefits. We aim to develop more meaningful public service projects, so as to become a modern investment bank with international competence, brand influence and system importance."

About GF Securities Co. Ltd.

Established in 1991, GF Securities is one of the first, full-service investment banks in China. The Company was successfully listed on the main boards of the Shenzhen stock Exchange (Stock code: 000776.SZ), and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock code: 1776.HK), in 2010 and 2015, respectively. Relying on excellent business performance, risk management and quality services, the company achieves sustained and steady development, and is one of the most influential securities companies in China. The Company possesses industry-leading innovation capabilities and has built a diversified business portfolio serving various corporations, individuals, institutional investors, financial institutions and governments. As of December 31, 2016, the Company operates 264 brokerage branches, providing extensive national coverage to 31 provinces, cities, and autonomous regions throughout China. For two consecutive years in 2015 and 2016, GF Securities ranked second on "Hurun's Top Brands List" amongst Chinese securities companies. The Company is actively committed to social responsibility and caring, focusing on education and poverty through "GF Securities Social Charity Foundation", and as a result has enjoyed a strong reputation and an influential brand.



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

Winson Announces 2017 Interim Results

$
0
0

HONG KONG, Nov 13, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Winson Holdings Hong Kong Limited ("Winson" or the "Group"; stock code: 8421), a Hong Kong-based service provider specialising in environmental hygiene and related services and airline catering support services, has announced its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 September 2017 ("Period under Review").

During the Period under Review, the Group's two principal businesses, environmental hygiene and related services and airline catering support services, performed steadily. The two operations generated combined revenue of approximately HK$248.2 million, representing a year-on-year increase of approximately 8.0%. Though the cost of services has further increased, the Group has nonetheless been able to achieve a gross profit of approximately HK$37.4 million. Furthermore, profit for the Period under Review was approximately HK$11.7 million (2016: approximately HK$7.1 million). Indicative of the Group's solid financial health, it had cash and cash equivalents of approximately HK$52.7 million as at the Period under Review.

Business Review

Environmental Hygiene and Related Services
Environmental hygiene and related services remained the principal revenue contributor of the Group, contributing approximately HK$228.0 million in revenue and accounting for approximately 91.9% of total revenue. Gross profit of approximately HK$35.1 million was recorded compared with HK$31.4 million booked for the corresponding period last year, with gross profit margin at approximately 15.4% (FY2016: 14.8%). As at 30 September 2017, the estimated total value of the Group's contracts in hand was approximately HK$610.5 million, of which approximately HK$607.4 million was ongoing contracts. The Group won 11 new contracts worth approximately HK$20.2 million in aggregate during the Period under Review.

Airline Catering Support Services
Having effectively tapped the Group's existing client base to extend services from environmental hygiene to airline catering support services back in 2013, the latter segment has been developing favourably ever since. As at the Period under Review, airline catering support services generated revenue totalling of approximately HK$20.2 million, representing a year-on-year rise of approximately 17.4 %, and accounted for approximately 8.1% of total revenue. Gross profit of approximately HK$2.3 million was recorded compared to approximately HK$2.6 million reported for the same period last year. Gross profit margin stood at approximately 11.4%.

With loyal and skilled workforce, combined with a dedicated management team and respected "Winson" brand name are the catalysts for the Group's continuing expansion and development.

Prospects

Going forward, with new buildings constantly being built while existing and old buildings also requires regular upkeep, the demand for environmental hygiene and related services is expected to remain strong. This coupled with lacklustre performance of certain business peers will present greater growth opportunities to the Group. Meanwhile, demand for airline catering support services is expected to be strong, driven by the revival of tourist industry and airline operators' increasing desire to contract catering support services to reliable third parties such as the Group.

While the aforementioned developments are encouraging, the management recognises that the Group is facing challenges of rising labour costs, labour shortage and intense competition. To address such challenges, the Group is constantly examining all facets of operation and the ways in which to bolster efficiency. Where applicable, it will introduce equipment and equipment upgrades that reduce the Group's dependence on manual labour.

Madam Ng Sing Mui, Chairperson and Executive Director of Winson, said, "Despite the keen market competition and labour shortage issue, the Group managed to deliver solid results. Boasting the well-respected "Winson" brandname and a dedicated workforce, the Group will continue exploring all avenues for expanding its scope of services which leverages its expertise in environmental hygiene and related services and airline catering support. Concurrently, the Group will seek to strengthen these two core businesses by making more effort to increase in competitiveness and profitability, leading to long-term sustainable growth."

About Winson Holdings Hong Kong Limited (Stock code: 8421)
Winson Holdings Hong Kong Limited is a Hong Kong-based service provider specialising in environmental hygiene and related services and airline catering support services in Hong Kong. The Group started off as an environmental hygiene and related service provider in 1983 via the incorporation of Winson Cleaning. In 1993, the Group set up Winson Pest Control as a separate pest management service provider. To diversify the Group's business, the Group has commenced the provision of airline catering support services since 2013.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Vicky Lee Tel: (852) 2864 4834 Email: vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk
Isabel Kwok Tel: (852) 2864 4824 Email: isabel.kwok@sprg.com.hk
Jacky Chiu Tel: (852) 2114 4313 Email: jacky.chiu@sprg.com.hk
Website: www.sprg.com.hk



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

Toyota: Hydrogen Could Contribute to 20% of CO2 Emissions Reduction Targets by 2050

$
0
0

Hydrogen, scaling up--Key takeaways
The Hydrogen Council reveals first-of-a kind study showing hydrogen's contribution as a key pillar of the energy transition

Toyota City, Japan, Nov 14, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - As global leaders gathered at COP 23 in Bonn, 18 key leaders in their industry verticals, united in the Hydrogen Council coalition, came together to launch first ever globally quantified vision of the role of hydrogen, developed with support from McKinsey. In addition to being a key pillar in of the energy transition, the study shows that hydrogen has the potential to develop US$2.5 tn of business, creating more than 30 million jobs by 2050.

Taking the Hydrogen Council's vision for hydrogen to the next level, the study entitled Hydrogen, Scaling up outlines a comprehensive and quantified roadmap to scale deployment and its enabling impact on the energy transition.

Deployed at scale, hydrogen could account for almost one-fifth of total final energy consumed by 2050. This would reduce annual CO2 emissions by roughly 6 gigatons compared to today's levels, and contribute roughly 20% of the abatement required to limit global warming to two degrees Celsius.

On the demand side, the Hydrogen Council sees the potential for hydrogen to power about 10 to 15 million cars and 500,000 trucks by 2030, with many uses in other sectors as well, such as industry processes and feedstocks, building heating and power, power generation and storage. Overall, the study predicts that the annual demand for hydrogen could increase tenfold by 2050 to almost 80 EJ in 2050 meeting 18% of total final energy demand in the 2050 two-degree scenario. At a time when global populations are expected to grow by two billion people by 2050, hydrogen technologies have the potential to create opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

"The world in the 21st century must transition to widespread low carbon energy use," said Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation and co-chair of the Hydrogen Council. "Hydrogen is an indispensable resource to achieve this transition because it can be used to store and transport wind, solar and other renewable electricity to power transportation and many other things. The Hydrogen Council has identified seven roles for hydrogen, which is why we are encouraging governments and investors to give it a prominent role in their energy plans. The sooner we get the hydrogen economy going, the better, and we are all committed to making this a reality."

Achieving such scale would require substantial investments; approximately US$20 to 25 billion annually for a total of about US$280 billion until 2030. Within the right regulatory framework--including long-term, stable coordination and incentive policies--the report considers that attracting these investments to scale the technology is feasible. The world already invests more than US$1.7 trillion in energy each year, including US$650 billion in oil and gas, US$300 billion in renewable electricity, and more than US$300 billion in the automotive industry.

"This study confirms the place of hydrogen as a central pillar in the energy transition, and encourages us in our support of its large-scale deployment. Hydrogen will be an unavoidable enabler for the energy transition in certain sectors and geographies. The sooner we make this happen the sooner we will be able to enjoy the needed benefits of Hydrogen at the service of our economies and our societies," said Benoit Potier, Chairman and CEO, Air Liquide. "Solutions are technologically mature and industry players are committed. We need concerted stakeholder efforts to make this happen; leading this effort is the role of the Hydrogen Council."

The launch of the new roadmap came during the Sustainability Innovation Forum in the presence of 18 senior members of the Hydrogen led by co-chairs Takeshi Uchiyamada, Chairman of Toyota and Benoit Potier, Chairman and CEO, Air Liquide and accompanied by Prof. Aldo Belloni, CEO of The Linde Group, Woong-chul Yang, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor Company and Anne Stevens, Board Member of Anglo American. During the launch, the Hydrogen Council called upon investors, policymakers, and businesses to join them in accelerating deployment of hydrogen solutions for the energy transition. It was also announced that Woong-chul Yang of Hyundai Motor Company will succeed Takeshi Uchiyamada of Toyota in the rotating role of the Council's co-chair and preside the group together with Benoit Potier, CEO Air Liquide, in 2018. Mr. Uchiyamada is planning to return as Co-chairman in 2020, coinciding with the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, an important milestone for showcasing hydrogen society and mobility.

Hydrogen, scaling up--Key takeaways(1)
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaHydrogenScalingUp.jpg

About the Hydrogen Council:

Launched at the World Economic Forum in Davos in early 2017, the Hydrogen Council is a first-of-its-kind global CEO initiative to foster the role of hydrogen technologies in the global energy transition. Current members include 18 leading multinationals--Air Liquide, Alstom, Anglo American, Audi, BMW GROUP, Daimler, ENGIE, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai Motor, Iwatani, Kawasaki, Plastic Omnium, Royal Dutch Shell, Statoil, The Linde Group, Total, and Toyota--as well as 10 dynamic players from across the value chain--Ballard, Faber Industries, Faurecia, First Element Fuel (True Zero), Gore, Hydrogenics, Mitsubishi Corporation, Mitsui & Co, Plug Power, and Toyota Tsusho. The coalition collectively represents total revenues of over Euro 1.5 trillion and more than 2 million jobs around the world.(2) To find out more: www.hydrogencouncil.com.

About Hydrogen Council meetings at COP 23:

The Council will gather at COP 23 to conclude the first year of its activity. While in Bonn on 13-14 November 2017, CEOs and other senior representatives will participate in a range of high-level roundtables, interactions with policy-makers as well as the media and the broader stakeholder community. The Hydrogen Council is led by two Co-Chairs from different geographies and sectors, elected by Steering Members for a two-year term, each year one of the two Co-chair mandates is renewed for continuity.

About Hydrogen

Hydrogen is a versatile, clean, and safe energy carrier that can be used as fuel for power or in industry as feedstock. Generating zero emissions at point of use, it can be produced from (renewable) electricity and from carbon-abated fossil fuels, thereby achieving completely zero-emission pathways. The uses for hydrogen continue to grow as it can be stored and transported at high energy density in liquid or gaseous form and can be combusted or used in fuel cells to generate heat and electricity. This versatility confers to hydrogen a key enabling role all together in the transport, the industry and the residential sectors, as well as for the large-scale storage of renewable energies, making it a promising solution to overcome the challenges of the energy transition.

(1) SOURCE: Hydrogen Council; IEA ETP Hydrogen and Fuel Cells CBS; National Energy Outlook 2016
(2) Company figures from financial years 2015 and 2016.

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

Voltage's Visual Romance Apps 'Love 365: Find Your Story' Now Available Worldwide

$
0
0

TOKYO, Nov 14, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Voltage Inc. (Shibuya, Tokyo, President: Yuzi Tsutani) released its latest female-oriented English-language app, Love 365: Find Your Story, for iOS and Android on November 13th, 2017.

This convenient app is designed to be a portal that compiles all of Voltage's English-translated Japanese Visual Romance Apps' characters and stories into one easy-to-navigate reader app for our international audience. Not only can you pay for an entire story upfront like the former standalone apps, but now you can sign up for a monthly subscription service ($8.99 USD), or even pay for individual episodes.

Two new titles will be available in the app at launch, Rose in the Embers (Japanese title: Taisho Roman, Unmei no Hito) and When Destiny Comes Knocking (Japanese title: Konna Watashi no Motekina Nichijou). Along with three formerly released titles, Love 365: Find Your Story will include five titles, 24 characters, and over a hundred stories. Certain stories will even be free to read at launch.

The English version of the standalone apps will continue to be ported into Love 365: Find Your Story in the months to follow.
Love 365: Find Your Story also includes a function that allows for all stories purchased in the standalone apps to be transferred to the reader app during the transfer period.

Voltage will continue to bring heart-pounding moments to people all over the world.

- Rose in the Embers

The Story:
The Taisho period, when hearts were not free to choose. You have been bought by the son of an earl, and are to work as a maid in his great house. This nobleman you've met appears wanton and freewheeling, but you are drawn to the man he reveals himself to be. However, the strict divide of your social classes means this love can never be... But your hearts cannot be denied, and the love you share will destroy the walls society has built between you two. A dramatic and inspiring love story awaits you in Rose in the Embers...

Discover the Thrill of This Fantasy Romance
During the day, you two steal furtive glances at one another. When the sun sets, and the sky is a blanket of stars, you sneak away for a clandestine dance in the garden... He's only a hair's breadth away, close enough to kiss. A Cinderella story for the ages! Two endings await you. Discover the joys of hearts united in The Favored Bold Ending, or succumb to the chains that bind you to this bittersweet fate in Fortune's Fools Ending.

- When Destiny Comes Knocking

The Story:
After praying for some much-needed luck in the love department, five incredibly gorgeous men suddenly fall into your lap! Your love life's been barren for far too long... and it looks like monsoon season has arrived! During the story, you'll have to "Bet on Love"! How will you handle this sudden upswing in popularity?! The choices you make will affect your "Ms. Right Points"! Do you have what it takes to be the girl of the moment?

It's Raining Men!
Five men have all asked you on a date! You've finally made a choice, but midway through your date, a new potential bachelor swoops in to steal you away! You've never been this in-demand, and your heart can't catch a break! You may have chosen the one you want to romance, but you know what they say: When it rains, it pours...! Will he profess his love to you in the Super Happy Ending, or will you woman up and confess to him in the Happy Ending? Your happily ever after is in your hands!

Other titles available at launch

Title: Era of Samurai: Code of Love
Story: The Edo period draws to a close... Set upon by vagrants, you are saved by the heroes of the Shinsengumi. His hands are covered in the blood of his enemies, yet his touch is gentle, filled with warmth... Join these infamous warriors and carve a path through history, love as your weapon.

Title: After School Affairs
Story: When the bell rings, your secret begins... Your all-boys school and the neighboring all-girls school are combining! And your new coworkers include five gorgeous men! But there's a new school rule: No love allowed, and that goes for both teachers and students... Ready to break the rules?

Title: Love Letter from Thief X
Story: The Black Foxes, an infamous band of thieves... Their next target? You! To help them on their mission, you decide to join their ragtag group as a thief yourself! As you adventure with this troupe of men, you have to ask yourself... Is your heart in danger of being stolen, too? A thrilling love story with a world-famous thief is about to begin!

Release Information
App Title: Love 365: Find Your Story
Pricing system: Free-to-download / in-app purchases
Release date: iOS / Android: 11/13/2017 (Mon.)
Supported devices: iOS 8.0 or above / Android OS 4.1 or above *May not run on certain devices.
How to access: Search for "Love 365: Find Your Story" in the app store.
Copyright: (c)Voltage

Full press release can be viewed at http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/Voltage_1711.pdf

Voltage Inc. company info
Company name: Voltage Inc. (Established September 1999)
Location: Tokyo, Shibuya ward, Ebisu 4-20-3 Ebisu Garden Place Tower, 28th floor
President: Yuzi Tsutani

Contact:
Voltage Inc. Chief Public Relations Officer
TEL: +81-3-5475-8149
FAX: +81-3-5475-8142
E-MAIL: press@voltage.co.jp
HP: http://www.voltage.co.jp/en/

*All companies, products, and services listed here are registered trademarks of their respective companies.


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

NEC Announces Expanded Footprint in Washington, D.C.

$
0
0

Opening of Government Relations Office Adds Focus and Support to Global Technology Leader's Safety and Security Customers

TOKYO, Nov 14, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) and NEC Corporation of America (NECAM), an industry leading provider of biometrics and communications technology and integrator of IT solutions, today announced the expansion of its offices in Washington, D.C., to include a new government relations function.

The office will be responsible for understanding U.S. government requirements for areas such as effective border management and counterterrorism as part of assuring NEC innovation and R&D are aligned to the needs of the United States. The office will also seek to improve NEC's brand awareness throughout the D.C. area.

The new government relations office will be led by Shinsuke (Shin) Takahashi, current Chairman and former President and CEO of NECAM. In this role, Mr. Takahashi will further strengthen NEC's relationships with government agencies by aligning NEC's strategic initiatives with the goals of the U.S. government. Specific areas of collaboration will focus on security policy, international trade and other matters that affect national safety and security.

NECAM first opened its sales office in Washington, D.C., in May 2016 with a focus on providing biometric security solutions to the U.S. government. In a short time, NEC has expanded its federal government business, where NEC was selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Biometric Exit pilot program using NEC's NeoFace Express face recognition rapid matching technology.

"In my previous role as President and CEO of NECAM over the past five years, it was exciting to be part of our growth in the U.S. government," said Mr. Takahashi. "My aim as Head of Government Relations is not only to advance our business, but to collaborate and build relationships in Washington so that we can contribute to a safer, more secure society."

In addition to the office's focus on U.S. government issues, Mr. Takahashi will also be responsible for developing relationships with international organizations like World Bank, IDB, and the United Nations. NEC's expansion in Washington D.C. will become effective in early December.

About NEC Corporation of America

NEC Corporation of America (NEC) is a leading technology integrator providing solutions that improve the way people work and communicate. NEC delivers integrated Solutions for Society that are aligned with our customers' priorities to create new value for people, businesses and society, with a special focus on safety, security and efficiency. We deliver one of the industry's strongest and most innovative portfolios of communications, analytics, security, biometrics and technology solutions that unleash customers' productivity potential. Through these solutions, NEC combines its best-in-class solutions and technology, and leverages a robust partner ecosystem to solve today's most complex business problems. NEC Corporation of America is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, a global technology leader with a presence in 160 countries and $25 billion in revenues. For more information, please visit www.necam.com.

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/vision/message.html

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
Viewing all 17131 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images