TOKYO, Dec 15, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to provide Clinica Universidad de Navarra (CUN) with its proton beam therapy (PBT) system. The agreement includes PBT system maintenance following completion of the systems' installation.

The PBT System will be installed at CUN's facility in Madrid, Spain and is equipped with state of the art technology including spot scanning capability(*) for treating certain forms of cancer. The System includes a compact synchrotron accelerator, full rotating gantry with cone beam CT and the option to add an additional gantry treatment room in the future. PBT patient treatment using the new system is expected to start at the hospital in the spring of 2020.

PBT is an advanced type of cancer radiotherapy. Protons, the atomic nucleus of hydrogen, are accelerated at high speed and its energy is concentrated on the tumours. PBT improves the quality of life for cancer patients since patients experience no pain during treatment and the procedure has fewer impacts on bodily functions. In most cases, patients can continue with their normal daily activities while undergoing treatment.

(*) Spot scanning technology became feasible by advancing the uniform quality beam extraction technology from the accelerator and beam control technology with high accuracy, which includes three primary benefits: (1) more accurate irradiation which can reduce the side effects to the healthy tissues surrounding the tumour compared with conventional double scattering irradiation; (2) patient-specific collimators and boluses are not necessary; and (3) proton beam usage factor is high, reducing unnecessary secondary radiation.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

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

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

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

HONG KONG, Dec 15, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Hua Hong Semiconductor Limited ("Hua Hong Semiconductor" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"; stock code: 1347.HK), a global leading pure-play 200mm foundry, today introduced a world-class 12-bit Successive Approximation Register Analog Digital Converter (SAR ADC) IP based on its 0.11um Ultra-Low Leakage (ULL) embedded Flash (eFlash) process platform. This ADC IP has outstanding silicon proven features, such as up to 2MSPS sampling rate, multilple channels, high precision and low power consumption, which is ideal for high-performance micro-controller units (MCUs), and can fulfill needs of various applications, including Internet of Things (IoT).

Leveraging on its extensive IP design experience and outstanding R&D team, in addition to embedded NVMs, Hua Hong Semiconductor has already announced a number of analog IP series, such as RTC, BGR, LDO, PORI, PORE, RC OSC, LCD driver, and ADC in order to target the fast growing MCU market. The ADC IP introduced this time is an SAR ADC with 12-bit resolution, featuring monotonic transfer function and no missing codes; the IP has a small area of 0.2mm2, which has reduced the cost of the chip. It can operate reliably under a wide range of supply voltage from 1.8V to 5.5V, and temperature from -40 degrees celsius to +125 degrees celsius.

The 12-bit SAR ADC IP features ultra-low power - only 3.5mW under 2MSPS sampling rate and 3.3V, and 1.8mW under 2MSPS sampling rate and 2.0V.

The 12-bit SAR ADC IP features excellent dynamic performance - 70dB SNDR under 2MSPS sampling rate and 3.3V, and 69dB SNDR under 1.5MSPS sampling rate and 1.8V.

The 12-bit SAR ADC IP provides ten external input channels (eight of which can be flexibly configured to operate in either the differential or single-ended mode, while the other two are used for external reference voltage mearsurement) and one internal input channel (used for supply voltage measurement). The built-in digital calibration circuit can correct the offset of the internal comparator and the linear error of the internal DAC. Furthermore, the positive and negative reference voltages as well as the sampling period length can both be customized and configured.

"The introduction of the 12-bit SAR ADC IP demonstrates the development and innovation ability of Hua Hong Semiconductor," said Dr. Kong Weiran, Executive Vice President of Hua Hong Semiconductor. "As an important part of our MCU series solutions, successful tape-out and verification of the ADC IP on the 0.11um ULL eFlash platform can effectively help our customers reduce chip power consumption and cost, simplify system design, which will, in turn, enhance their competitiveness in different markets, such as IoT, manufacturing, and automotive electronics."

About Hua Hong Semiconductor Limited
Hua Hong Semiconductor (Stock Code: 1347.HK) is a global leading pure-play 200mm foundry, primarily focusing on research and manufacturing of semiconductors on 200mm wafers for specialty applications, in particular eNVM and power discretes. The Group's portfolio also includes several other advanced process technologies such as RFCMOS, analog and mixed signal, PMIC and MEMS. According to IHS, based on total 2016 revenues, the Group ranked second globally amongst pure-play 200mm foundries. The semiconductors Hua Hong Semiconductor manufactures are incorporated into a wide range of products in diverse markets, including consumer electronics, communications, computing, industrial and automotive. Hua Hong Semiconductor uses its own proprietary processes and techniques to manufacture semiconductors of the design specifications for its diverse customers. The Group currently has one of the largest 200mm wafer processing capacities in China through its three fabs in Shanghai, with an approximate total capacity of 166,000 wafers per month as of September 30, 2017. The Group also offers design enablement services facilitating the timely completion of complex designs that are optimized in terms of performance, cost and manufacturing yield on its processes.

Hua Hong Semiconductor's current business is mainly operated and developed through Shanghai Huahong Grace Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation ("HHGrace"), which is its subsidiary based in Shanghai. HHGrace was incorporated through the consolidation between Shanghai Hua Hong NEC Electronics Company, Limited and Grace Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation.

For more information please visit: www.huahonggrace.com

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

Global Business Leaders to Discuss "Steering Growth and Pioneering Innovation: Asia and Beyond"

HONG KONG, Dec 15, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 11th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) will be held on 15-16 January 2018 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Under the theme "Steering Growth and Pioneering Innovation: Asia and Beyond," policymakers as well as financial and business leaders will examine topical issues in global and regional economies. Innovation and technology will be a prioritised component of the forum with dedicated discussions on Fintech, innovations in banking, big data, digital economy, artificial intelligence and robotics.

"After a decade of development, this year's event marks a new era for the Asia Financial Forum," said Diana Cesar, Chairperson, AFF Steering Committee; Group General Manager and CEO, Hong Kong, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd. "Apart from economic and financial topics, we are adding more forward-looking elements from a wider perspective. We believe technology and innovation are very important to business and finance, so we have decided to introduce these elements. We aim to make this signature event a centre of insights and ideas, inspiring business leaders to propel societal advancement."

- Jacob Lew touches on hot topics in US economy

Former US Treasury Secretary Jacob J Lew will be the keynote luncheon speaker on the first day of AFF. Mr Lew previously served as White House Chief of Staff and Director of the Office of Management and Budget. During his term as Secretary of the Treasury, Mr Lew secured US Congressional support to raise the US debt ceiling, averting a US Federal Government shutdown, and kept the federal deficit under control.

Mr Lew will share his insights on the global and US economic outlook, touching on the issues he handled during his term as Treasury chief, including the debt ceiling, trade sanctions, regulatory policy as well as tax policy reforms. Mr Lew will also take part in a separate dialogue session.

- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in financial and business sector

Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are among the hottest technology issues as they are increasingly adopted across industries, including in finance and banking. On the second day of AFF, keynote luncheon speaker Daniela Rus, Director, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab (CSAIL), and Professor, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of MIT will address the latest advancements in AI and robotics by examining how these applications will impact the financial and business sectors. Focusing on bringing cheap and easily produced robots into daily life, Professor Rus' research interests in distributed robotics and mobile computing are essential for the finance and banking sectors to integrate advanced technologies into their business development.

- Top Fintech Influencer on stage

Technology is revolutionising the financial industry as a result of Fintech and other innovations. On the second day of AFF, banking innovation consultant and global Fintech opinion leader, JP Nicols, who is Managing Director of FinTech Forge and Chairman of NextMoney.org, will speak on how companies from the financial and business sectors can leverage innovation and technology to succeed in the evolving global markets. FinTech Forge helps financial institutions develop innovative capabilities either internally or through partnerships with Fintech companies. Widely regarded as an influential thought-leader in technology and finance, Mr Nicols has shared his insights on financial innovation through blogs and various media outlets.

- Topical issues to be addressed

Influential policymakers and business leaders will also examine topics ranging from the global economic outlook, China opportunities, to policy directions. Heavyweight speakers include Inga Beale, CEO, Lloyd's; Fang Fenglei, founder and Chairman of Hopu Investment Management Co; Fu Yuning, Chairman, China Resources Group; Stuart T Gulliver, Group Chief Executive, HSBC Holdings plc; Hu Huaibang, Chairman, China Development Bank Corporation; Jin Liqun, President, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; David Lipton, First Deputy Managing Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF); Takehiko Nakao, President, Asian Development Bank; and Neil Shen, Founding and Managing Partner, Sequoia China.

Sponsored by the Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council, the Breakfast Panel on 16 January will be held under the theme "Hong Kong Connects: Mainland China and Beyond: Stock, Bond, Mutual Recognition and more...." Moderated by Benjamin Hung, Regional CEO, Greater China & North Asia; CEO, Retail Banking, Standard Chartered Bank, the panel will also include Norman Chan, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Charles Li, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd and Dr Zhu Min, President, National Institute of Finance Research of Tsinghua University and Former IMF Deputy Managing Director. On the same day, a workshop, co-organised by the HKTDC and the International Financial Corporation, will offer a glimpse of how Asia's youth are reshaping the economic landscape, focusing in particular on creating a financial ecosystem for future entrepreneurs that will lead to sustainable economic growth.

- Inspiring new ideas, support start-ups

To address the growing role of technology in the new global economy, a series of "InnoTalks" will examine how issues such as Fintech, innovations in banking, digitalisation under the Belt and Road Initiative, artificial intelligence and robotics, as well as big data, digital identity and RegTech will reshape the industry and economic development.

The AFF Deal Flow Matchmaking Session, co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, will feature pre-arranged deal-sourcing and matchmaking meetings for project owners and investors. Project presentations will showcase the latest development of specific sectors and projects. The new InnoVenture Salon will provide an ideal platform to connect start-up companies with potential investors and partners. It will include a Startup Showcase, Investors Meetup, start-up project presentations and Mentor Hours, where experienced investors and experts will provide practical tips on setting up, pitching, fund-raising as well as scaling and selling to China and Asian markets. Participating mentors include Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, Beyond Ventures, Cocoon Ignite Ventures, Hong Kong X-Tech Startup, Mindworks Ventures, Nest Ventures, VC Growth Partners and Vectr Ventures.

Photo download: http://bit.ly/2yrM8np
Event website: www.asianfinancialforum.com
Programme: http://www.hktdc.com/ncs/aff2018/en/s/programme.html
Speakers: http://www.hktdc.com/ncs/aff2018/en/s/speaker2018.html

Members of the media interested in interviewing the speakers can fill out the form (http://bit.ly/2AqqGkk) and email it to billy.km.ng@hktdc.org by 4 January 2018.

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
Communications & Public Affairs Department
Billy Ng
Tel: +852 2584 4393
Email: billy.km.ng@hktdc.org

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

Vehicle for the 24 Hours of Nurburgring 2018 to be revealed

Toyota City, Japan, Dec 15, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will be participating at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2018, an event showcasing customized cars, which is scheduled to be held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, for three days from January 12-14(1), 2018.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaGRSuperSportConcept.jpg
GR Super Sport Concept GR Super Sport Concept

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing aims to develop its cars and people toward the goal of "making ever-better cars" through participation in motorsports activities, such as top category races including the World Rally Championship (WRC) and World Endurance Championship (WEC), as well as national rallies and races. The technologies and know-how acquired through such activities are subsequently fed back into the development of new production vehicles. As part of this integrated development process from motorsports activities through product development, Toyota launched the new "GR" sports car series in September.

The theme selected by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing for Tokyo Auto Salon 2018 is "Meister's Workshop" and will feature cars that have competed in various motorsports activities, as well as cars that have been developed as a result of these competitions. The aim is also to promote the enjoyment of vehicle customization and communicate how cars will continue to exude an increasingly exciting presence in the future.

In addition to vehicles competing in motorsports such as the Yaris WRC and TS050 Hybrid, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will also be exhibiting the GR Super Sport Concept, a concept car originate from participation in the WEC, as one example of how technological feedback acquired through motorsports activities is incorporated. The exhibited vehicles will also include production vehicles such as the 86 GR and the Vitz GRMN, a 150-unit limited edition model for Japan.

The vehicles scheduled to compete in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring in May will also be revealed, while the drivers for the race will be announced on January 12.

(1) January 12: Industry and Press day; January 13 and 14: Public days

About Toyota

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is the global mobility company that introduced the Prius hybrid-electric car in 1997 and the first mass-produced fuel cell sedan, Mirai, in 2014. Headquartered in Toyota City, Japan, Toyota has been making cars since 1937. Today, Toyota proudly employs 370,000 employees in communities around the world. Together, they build around 10 million vehicles per year in 29 countries, from mainstream cars and premium vehicles to mini-vehicles and commercial trucks, and sell them in more than 170 countries under the brands Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

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

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

- Marketing to commence in April 2018, to respond to increasing fluorocarbon-free demand
- Large-capacity response offering same space-saving features as previous 10HP type
- Proprietary two-stage compressor delivers stable refrigeration and high efficiency

TOKYO, Dec 15, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems) has added a large-capacity 20 horsepower (HP) model, the "HCCV2001M," to its lineup of "C-puzzle" fluorocarbon-free commercial refrigeration condensing units that use the natural refrigerant of carbon dioxide (CO2 ). The new model responds to demand from the cold-storage warehouse industry for large-capacity condensing units accommodating CO2 refrigerants as a result of the recently introduced Fluorocarbons Emission Control Law. The new HCCV2001M is scheduled to go on sale in April 2018.

The HCCV2001M is equipped with two units of a proprietary two-stage compressor integrating a scroll compressor and a rotary compressor. The same units are used in the highly acclaimed 10HP "HCCV1001" model launched in April 2017. The scroll compressor, which offers outstanding efficiency during high-pressure loads, is positioned on the upper-stage side, and the rotary compressor, offering excellent efficiency with modest load pressures, is on the lower-stage side. The adoption of gas injection by a gas-liquid separator in the intermediate-pressure vessel ensures refrigerating capacity and high efficiency throughout the HCCV2001M's operating range. Together these features eliminate problems relating to the high operating pressures that are unavoidable with use of a CO2 refrigerant. In addition, the adoption of middle-range pressure when transporting the refrigerant enables reduced on-site construction costs. Also, since the condensing unit can be operated in an ambient range of -15degC to +43degC with an operating temperature range of -45degC to -5degC, it can accommodate diverse refrigeration and freezing needs.

To meet demand for easy replacement of existing systems, the HCCV2001M features a maximum pipe length of 100 meters (m). Furthermore, the adoption of the same external dimensions as the outdoor units of MHI Thermal Systems' multi system commercial air-conditioners enables mixed installations with condensing units.

The C-puzzle's R744 CO2 refrigerant has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero and global warming potential (GWP) of 1, so the HCCV2001M contributes significantly to protecting the ozone layer and curbing global warming, particularly in comparison with the hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) in wide use today. Under the Fluorocarbons Emission Control Law, by 2025 all commercial condensing units with a refrigerating capacity above 1.5 kilowatts (kW) (approx. 2HP) will be required to use refrigerants with a GWP below 1500. CO2 refrigerants have the strong advantage of not being affected by increasingly stringent regulations.

Since enactment of the Fluorocarbons Emission Control Law, replacement needs are intensifying for more efficient products that protect the environment. The new 20HP type condensing unit is expected to attract robust demand from large-scale warehouses and supermarkets. Also, since the unit's installation space is identical to that of the 10HP unit, space savings can be realized. Continuous side-by-side installations also enable response to large-capacity requirements.

Going forward, MHI Thermal Systems will continue to focus on developing high-performance products that use low-GWP refrigerants and natural refrigerants, further expanding its lineup to protect the environment.

About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), headquartered in Tokyo, is one of the world's leading industrial firms with 80,000 group employees and annual consolidated revenues of around 38 billion U.S. dollars. For more than 130 years, the company has channeled big thinking into innovative and integrated solutions that move the world forward. MHI owns a unique business portfolio covering land, sea, sky and even space. MHI delivers innovative and integrated solutions across a wide range of industries from commercial aviation and transportation to power plants and gas turbines, and from machinery and infrastructure to integrated defense and space systems.
For more information, please visit the MHI Group website: http://www.mhi-global.com.
For Technology, Trends and Tangents, visit MHI's new online media SPECTRA: http://spectra.mhi.com.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Joseph Hood, PR Manager
Email: mhi-pr@mhi.co.jp
Tel: +81-(0)3-6716-2168
Fax: +81-(0)3-6716-5860

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

Focuses on Commodity Trading, Financial Services and Logistics Businesses;
Enters New Development Stage

HONG KONG, Dec 15, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - HNA Holding Group Co. Limited ("HNA Holding" or the "Company", stock code: 521.HK) announced that it has officially changed its name from "HNA Holding Group Co. Limited" to "CWT International Limited" on 11 December 2017, the resolution of which was 100% approved by shareholders at the General Meeting held on 29 November 2017. In addition, the Company completed today the acquisition of all equity of CWT Limited ("CWT", together with its subsidiaries "CWT Group", SGX: C14), and as stated in the relevant announcements, CWT will delist from the official list of the SGX-ST from 9:00 a.m. on 18 December 2017.

The stock code of the CWT International Limited on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange ("HKSE") remains as "521". The stock short name of the Company for trading of shares on the HKSE will change from "HNA HOLDING" , to "CWT INT'L" , effective from 9:00 a.m. on 20 December 2017. The website address of the Company will also change from www.hnaholdinghk.com to www.cwtinternational.com, effective from 20 December 2017.

CWT International Limited commented, "After the acquisition of CWT Limited is completed, the Company will have an optimized business structure. The new name 'CWT International Limited' depicts a big picture with more dedicate presence of the Company's new businesses and future strategies. Looking forward, the Company will place more focus on bulk commodity trading, logistics warehousing and ancillary financial services businesses. With a new corporate image, it will take advantage of China's 'One Belt One Road' Initiative to explore new development opportunities, all to the end of creating better returns for shareholders."

CWT Limited, a Singapore-listed integrated logistics service provider taking the leading position in the international logistics and commodity trading industries and has business presence in about 90 countries around the world. CWT prides ownership of international logistics, commodity trading and financial service platforms and has been committed to providing integrated logistics solutions covering from capital to service to customers.

After the acquisition is completed, CWT International Limited will strive to develop into a leading integrated commodity trading services provider with global reach drawing on the CWT Limited's established global network, brand and resources advantages and mature capital operation experience. The combination of strengths and synergies that brings will enable CWT International Limited to actively seize the opportunities arising from the "One Belt One Road" Initiative, focusing on bulk commodity trading, ancillary financial services and logistics businesses, helping the company further enhance its business in the China market and boost economy of scale.

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

- Nearly all (94%) device makers have invested in software development in the past five years
- Nine in 10 (88%) believe the Internet of Things (IoT) is driving growth within the manufacturing industry
- 84% have changed - or have already changed - their business model to put software at its core in delivering services and generating revenue
- Of the 37% who have made the transition, the average increase in revenue has been 11%

AMSTERDAM, Dec 14, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Surveying 300 business decision makers in device manufacturing firms across five major global markets, Gemalto, the world leader in digital security, reveals that the device manufacturing industry is embracing software over hardware as its primary business model.

The change highlights how crucial software is becoming to device manufacturers, specifically in improving business performance and growing revenue. And, as end-users begin to demand more options and control of their devices and data, entire industries are being forced to change their business models and strategies to cater to their customers.

According to Gemalto's 'How Software is Powering the Hardware Renaissance' report, the majority (84%) of organizations in the sector are changing how they operate. In fact, nearly four in 10 (37%) have already made a full shift to a software-centric business model, one that places software at the core of how a company delivers value and generates revenue. The research also found that 94% of respondents have increased their investment in software development in the last five years. Germany is leading the charge. All (100%) of German organizations questioned have boosted their software-based services over this time; with France second (98%) and the US (93%) in third.

Substantial benefits

Hardware technology companies are already reaping substantial benefits - of those that have changed their models, the average increase in revenue has been 11%. They expect further growth in the next five years, with the revenue from software projected to rise from 15% to 18%.

As well as revenue growth, businesses that have moved to software-based selling have seen other benefits. Over eight in 10 have driven diversity in hardware with software features (86%), implemented remote feature upgrades (84%) and improved customer experience (84%). Businesses also report having a more flexible strategy that allows them to adapt to market change (79%), better control copy protection (76%) and being more competitive in the market (73%).

These changes are also having a positive impact for employees. The majority of businesses have retrained their employees (64%) and hired new ones (58%), with three in five (61%) also revealing they have or intend to reshuffle employees into different roles.

Opportunities in IoT

With businesses starting to see the potential of the IoT, software-based business models are generating commercial benefits. Around nine in 10 respondents (88%) believe IoT is driving growth in the industry and that IoT itself is a chance to change their company's business model (85%). Enabling automated upgrades (61%), remote support (57%), collecting usage analytics (54%) and gathering increased and higher quality customer insights (53%) are the main benefits businesses see IoT enabling.

Challenges of software-based selling models

While it may bring substantial benefits and new opportunities, changing from a hardware to a software-based selling model isn't without challenges. When it comes to practicalities, almost all organisations (96%) that have changed, or are changing, have experienced some difficulties in making the transition work.

Looking at the challenges faced in more detail, one in two (56%) respondents reported that they needed to hire staff with different skills. Around one in three said solutions evolved organically without a central strategy (36%) and managing new sales and operational methodologies with outdated legacy processes (34%), caused challenges in the transition.

"The results of this survey validate what we see on a daily basis with our customers as we help them make this transition," said Shlomo Weiss, Senior Vice President, Software Monetization at Gemalto. "Companies who adopt software-based revenue models will reap three main benefits: long term relationships with their customers, predictable revenue streams and a clear competitive advantage. From gaining insight into product usage, to pay-per-use payment structures and on to new market penetration - all the companies we surveyed identified a real need to transform how they do business."

About the survey

Independent technology market research specialist Vanson Bourne surveyed 300 IT decision makers across the US, UK, France, Germany and Japan on behalf of Gemalto, the world leader in digital security. The respondents were from organizations that manufacture software-enabled hardware.

Additional Resources
- Visit the 'How Software is Powering the Hardware Renaissance' website for regional data or downloading the report and infographic. http://bit.ly/2zayJUd
- Learn more about Gemalto's Sentinel Software Monetization solutions https://www.gemalto.com/software-monetization

About Gemalto

Gemalto (Euronext NL0000400653 GTO) is the global leader in digital security, with 2016 annual revenues of EUR 3.1 billion and customers in over 180 countries. We bring trust to an increasingly connected world.

From secure software to biometrics and encryption, our technologies and services enable businesses and governments to authenticate identities and protect data so they stay safe and enable services in personal devices, connected objects, the cloud and in between.

Gemalto's solutions are at the heart of modern life, from payment to enterprise security and the internet of things. We authenticate people, transactions and objects, encrypt data and create value for software - enabling our clients to deliver secure digital services for billions of individuals and things.

Our 15,000+ employees operate out of 112 offices, 43 personalization and data centers, and 30 research and software development centers located in 48 countries.

For more information visit www.gemalto.com, or follow @gemalto on Twitter.

Gemalto media contacts:
Tauri Cox
North America
+1 512 257 3916
tauri.cox@gemalto.com

Sophie Dombres
Europe Middle East & Africa
+33 4 42 55 36 57 38
sophie.dombres@gemalto.com

Jaslin Huang
Asia Pacific
+65 6317 3005
jaslin.huang@gemalto.com

Enriqueta Sedano
Latin America
+52 5521221422
enriqueta.sedano@gemalto.com

Press release (PDF): http://hugin.info/159293/R/2156017/828553.pdf
2017 Survey Infographic: http://hugin.info/159293/R/2156017/828561.pdf
2017 Survey Picture: http://hugin.info/159293/R/2156017/828562.JPG

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

- EUR 51 offer price, representing a premium of 57% over the closing price as of 8 December 2017
- All-cash offer unanimously recommended by Gemalto's Board of Directors and unanimously approved by Thales's Board of Directors
- Creation of a global market leader in the fast-growing digital security market, supporting the most demanding clients in their digital transformation
- Thales to combine its digital assets with Gemalto, within a new Global Business Unit

Meudon, FRANCE, Dec 17, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Thales (EUR onext Paris: HO) and Gemalto (EUR onext Amsterdam and Paris: GTO) announce today that they have reached an agreement (the "Merger Agreement") on a recommended all-cash offer for all issued and outstanding ordinary shares of Gemalto, for a price of EUR 51 per share cum dividend.

Patrice Caine, Thales's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented: "The acquisition of Gemalto marks a key milestone in the implementation of Thales's strategy. Together with Gemalto's management, we have big ambitions based on a shared vision of the digital transformation of our industries and customers. Our project will be beneficial to innovation and employment, whilst respecting sovereign strategic technologies. We have a tremendous respect for Gemalto's technological achievements, and our two Groups share the same culture and DNA. I would like to personally thank Gemalto's management and Board of Directors for their unanimous support and I welcome warmly Gemalto's 15,000 employees to our Group. By combining our talents, Thales and Gemalto are creating a global leader in digital security."

Philippe Vallee, Gemalto's Chief Executive Officer, added: "I am convinced that the combination with Thales is the best and the most promising option for Gemalto and the most positive outcome for our Company, employees, clients, shareholders and other stakeholders. We share the same values and Gemalto will be able to pursue its strategy, accelerate its development and deliver its digital security vision, as part of Thales."

Alex Mandl, Chairman of Gemalto's Board of Directors, stated: "The Board of Directors, after full and careful review, together with its financial and legal advisors, of the various options available to the Company, has established unanimously that the Thales offer is in the best interests of Gemalto and all its stakeholders. As a result, the Gemalto Board of Directors unanimously recommends the Thales offer to its shareholders."

Creation of a global digital security leader

- Acceleration of Thales's digital strategy
Over the past three years, Thales has significantly increased its focus on digital technologies, investing over EUR 1 billion in connectivity, cybersecurity, data analytics and artificial intelligence, in particular with the acquisition of Sysgo, Vormetric and Guavus. The integration of Gemalto strongly accelerates this strategy, reinforcing Thales's digital offering, across its five vertical markets (aeronautics, space, ground transportation, defence and security). Altogether, this new business unit will represent c. 20% of pro forma Group revenues and rank among the top three players worldwide, with EUR 3.5bn revenues in the fast growing digital security market.

- Unique and innovative technology portfolio in an IoT, Mobile and Cloud World
Combined with Gemalto's unique leading digital security portfolio, Thales will be ideally positioned to offer an end-to-end solution, to secure the full critical digital decision chains, from data creation in sensors to real-time decision making. This unrivalled and innovative technology portfolio will put Thales in a highly differentiated position to provide enterprises and governments with a seamless response to the data security challenges that lie at the heart of their digital transformation.

- Creation of a global leader in digital security and cybersecurity
By acquiring a global leader in trusted identities and data security, Thales adds over EUR 3bn of revenue to its digital business sales and acquires a set of technologies and competencies that have applications in all of Thales's five vertical markets. The combination creates a powerhouse with a solution portfolio including security software, expertise in biometrics and multifactor authentication and the issuance of secure digital and physical credentials. These technologies, which combine diverse and constantly evolving use cases, are expected to yield significant commercial opportunities and revenue synergies in the years ahead.
Both Thales and Gemalto are experts at addressing the needs of the most demanding clients who are facing data security challenges. These include all operators of critical infrastructures including banks, telcos, governments, utilities, and general industries. This combination will reinforce and further globalise Thales's footprint.

- Capacity to address all customer digital security needs
Thales will combine its digital businesses into Gemalto, which will continue to operate under its own brand as one of the seven Thales global business units. Both the Thales and Gemalto management teams share a common industrial vision and endorse the growth project of this newly created digital security global business. Philippe Vallee will lead the combined digital security business.

- R&D: the common DNA of Thales and Gemalto digital businesses
Gemalto and Thales are technology-driven companies with world-class R&D capabilities and an extensive patent portfolio. R&D is at the core of Thales's and Gemalto's digital security businesses, and will remain so. The combined Group will have more than 28,000 engineers, 3,000 researchers, and invests more than EUR 1bn in self-funded R&D.

- A combination providing enhanced opportunities to Gemalto's employees and management
Thales does not anticipate any reduction in Gemalto's workforce as a consequence of this transaction.
Employees who are included in the current Gemalto efficiency program are immediately offered access to Thales's internal job boards and to the Thales internal mobility mechanism under the same conditions as Thales's employees. Furthermore, Thales has committed to preserve employment in Gemalto's French activities until at least the end of 2019. Thales recruited 6,000 people worldwide in 2017, and will actively pursue its human capital investments in the future.

- An attractive offer to Gemalto shareholders
Thales offers EUR 51 in cash per Gemalto share cum dividend. The offer price represents a premium of:
- 57% over the closing price as of 8 December 2017[1]
- 56% over the 1-month volume weighted average price(1)
- 48% of the 3-month volume weighted average price(1)
- Implied EV/2018E EBIT[2] of 17x

- Significant value creation for Thales shareholders
Gemalto is well advanced in its transition from its historical markets to the fast-growing Government, Enterprise security, and Industrial IoT markets, with significant growth potential both in revenue and margin terms.
In addition, Thales estimates that the combination will generate run-rate pre-tax cost synergies of EUR 100m to EUR 150m by 2021, as well as meaningful revenue synergies.
The transaction will generate mid to high teens adjusted EPS accretion, pre synergies, as of the first year post closing. The acquisition's return on capital employed (including synergies) will exceed Thales's cost of capital within 3 years following the closing of the acquisition.

- An offer unanimously recommended by Gemalto's Board of Directors
Consistent with its fiduciary duties, Gemalto's Board of Directors, with the support of its financial and legal advisors, has carefully reviewed and unanimously concluded that the offer is in the best interests of the Company, the sustainable success of its business and clients, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders.
Accordingly, the Gemalto Board has decided to unanimously support the transaction and recommend that Gemalto's shareholders accept the offer and vote in favour of the resolutions relating to the offer at the upcoming Extraordinary General Meeting. Furthermore, all members of Gemalto's Board who hold shares for their own account have committed to tender all those shares into the offer.
On 16 December 2017, Deutsche Bank and J.P. Morgan Securities plc issued fairness opinions relating to the offer to Gemalto's Board of Directors.

- Fully secured transaction financing
Thales will be able to finance the offer through its available cash resources and through new debt arrangements. In connection with the offer, Thales has secured a EUR 4.0 billion fully committed credit agreement.

- Solid combined balance sheet
Following the transaction, Thales will maintain a solid investment grade rating, based on continued disciplined capital allocation.
In this context, Thales's dividend policy will remain unchanged.

- Other non-financial covenants
In addition to the arrangements agreed with regard to strategy, R&D, and Gemalto employees described above, Thales and Gemalto have agreed on certain non-financial covenants with regard to the location of the Gemalto headquarters, continuation of the Gemalto brand, financing strategy and CSR matters. In general, these non-financial covenants (including with respect to strategy, R&D and employees) will continue to apply for two years after closing of the offer. Any material deviation from the non-financial covenants will require the affirmative vote of two independent directors who will remain on the Gemalto Board for the duration of the non-financial covenants. These independent directors will particularly monitor that appropriate consideration will be given to the interests of Gemalto minority shareholders and all other stakeholders' and relevant employee representation bodies' information and/or consultation requirements.

To facilitate the integration of the Gemalto Group within Thales, an Integration Committee will be established that is composed of senior representatives of both Thales and Gemalto. The Integration Committee will determine an integration plan, monitor its implementation and do all things necessary to assist and facilitate the integration.

- Offer Conditions
The commencement of the offer, and if and when made, the consummation of the offer is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of conditions that are customary for transactions of this kind, including:
a. minimum acceptance level of at least 67% of Gemalto shares;
b. no material adverse effect having occurred and is continuing;
c. no material breach of the Merger Agreement having occurred; and
d. no Superior Offer having been made or agreed upon.

Thales and Gemalto may terminate the Merger Agreement if a third-party offeror makes an offer which, in the opinion of the Gemalto Board, taking into account certainty, timing, financing, strategic fit, consequences for employees and other non-financial aspects of Thales's offer, is substantially more beneficial than Thales's offer and exceeds the offer price by 9% at least (a "Superior Offer").

In the event of a Superior Offer, Gemalto shall give Thales the opportunity to match such offer, in which case the Merger Agreement may not be terminated by Gemalto. Gemalto has agreed in the Merger Agreement to customary non-solicitation undertakings.

On termination of the Merger Agreement by Thales on account of a material breach by Gemalto or in the event of a third-party offer at a higher price, Gemalto will pay a termination fee of EUR 60m to Thales.

In addition, taking into account the interests of Gemalto, the sustainable success of its business and clients, employees, shareholders and other stakeholders, in order to secure the benefits of the transaction, Gemalto has agreed to issue contingent rights. In the event that a competing offer at a price that is less than 109% of the offer price is declared unconditional, these contingent rights will be issued for no consideration to all Gemalto shareholders and will entitle them to receive additional Gemalto shares.

On the date such a competing offer is declared unconditional, all Gemalto shareholders will acquire contingent rights which will entitle them to receive additional shares within three months after that date. The value of all the shares issued pursuant to the contingent rights will be equal to the difference between (i) the value of an offer made at a price of 109% of the offer price and (ii) the consideration offered in the competing offer.

In the event that a competing offer exceeds 109% of the offer price, the contingent rights will be automatically cancelled.

- Indicative timetable
The transaction is expected to close shortly after Thales has secured all customary regulatory approvals and clearances, which is expected for the second half of 2018. Thales's and Gemalto's works councils will be informed shortly.

- Offer memorandum and general meeting of shareholders
Thales intends to submit a request for approval of its offer memorandum to the AFM within four weeks and to publish the offer memorandum shortly after approval by the AFM.

Gemalto will hold an Extraordinary General Meeting prior to the closing of the offer period to inform its shareholders about the offer and to adopt certain technical resolutions that are conditional on the consummation of the offer.

- Transaction advisors
In connection with the transaction, Thales's financial advisors are Lazard, Messier Maris & Associes and Societe Generale, and its legal counsel are Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP and NautaDutilh N.V.
On behalf of Gemalto, Deutsche Bank and J.P. Morgan are acting as financial advisors and Allen & Overy LLP and Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier are acting as legal counsel.

- Conference call
Thales and Gemalto will hold separate conference calls in English on Monday, 18 December 2017 at
8:30 am (CET), in order to comment on the proposed transaction and answer questions from the financial community.
It will be also possible to follow these conference calls through a webcast. A digital replay will be available a few hours after the end of the conference calls.
The dial-in numbers and webcast links will be communicated later.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements represent trends or objectives, and cannot be construed as constituting forecasts regarding the Company's results or any other performance indicator. Actual results may differ significantly from the forward-looking statements due to various risks and uncertainties, as described in the Company's Registration Document, which has been filed with the French financial markets authority (Autorite des marches financiers - AMF).

This is a joint press release by Thales and Gemalto, pursuant to the provisions of Section 5 Paragraph 1 and 7 paragraph 4 of the Decree on Public Takeover Bids (Besluit openbare biedingen Wft) in connection with the intended public offer by Thales for all the issued and outstanding ordinary shares in the capital of Gemalto. This announcement does not constitute an offer, or any solicitation of any offer, to buy or subscribe for any securities in Gemalto. Any offer will be made only by means of an offer memorandum.

Contacts
Thales, Media Relations
Cedric LEUR quin
+33 1 57 77 86 26
cedric.lEUR quin@thalesgroup.com

Thales, Investor Relations
Bertrand Delcaire
+33 1 57 77 89 02
ir@thalesgroup.com

Gemalto, Media Relations
Isabelle Marand
M.: +33 6 1489 1817
isabelle.marand@gemalto.com

Gemalto, Media Relations Agency
Frans van der Grint
T: +31 629044053
Frans.vanderGrint@hkstrategies.com

Arien Stuijt
T: +31 621531233
arien.stuijt@hkstrategies.com

Gemalto, Investor Relations
Jean-Claude Deturche
M.: +33 6 2399 2141
jean-claude.deturche@gemalto.com

Sebastien Liagre
M.: +33 6 1751 4467
sebastien.liagre@gemalto.com

About Thales

Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace, Transport, Defence & Security markets. Thanks to its 64,000 employees in 56 countries, Thales recorded sales of EUR 14.9 billion in 2016. With over 23,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design and deploy equipment, systems and services to meet the most complex security requirements. Its unique international footprint allows it to work closely with its customers all over the world. www.thalesgroup.com

About Gemalto

Gemalto is the global leader in digital security, with 2016 annual revenues of EUR 3.1 billion and customers in over 180 countries. We bring trust to an increasingly connected world.

From secure software to biometrics and encryption, our technologies and services enable businesses and governments to authenticate identities and protect data so they stay safe and enable services in personal devices, connected objects, the cloud and in between.

Gemalto's solutions are at the heart of modern life, from payment to enterprise security and the internet of things. We authenticate people, transactions and objects, encrypt data and create value for software - enabling our clients to deliver secure digital services for billions of individuals and things.

Our 15,000 employees operate out of 112 offices, 43 personalization and data centers, and 30 research and software development centers located in 48 countries. www.gemalto.com

Notice to U.S. holders of Gemalto Shares

The Offer will be made for the securities of Gemalto, a public limited liability company incorporated under Dutch Law, and is subject to Dutch disclosure and procedural requirements, which are different from those of the United States of America. The Offer will be made in the United States of America in compliance with Section 14(e) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "U.S. Exchange Act"), and the applicable rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, including Regulation 14E (subject to any exemptions or relief therefrom, if applicable) and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Dutch law. Accordingly, the Offer will be subject to disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to the Offer timetable, settlement procedures, withdrawal, waiver of conditions and timing of payments that are different from those applicable under U.S. domestic tender offer procedures and laws.

The receipt of cash pursuant to the Offer by a U.S. holder of Gemalto Shares may be a taxable transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes and under applicable state and local, as well as foreign and other tax laws. Each holder of Gemalto shares is urged to consult his independent professional advisor immediately regarding the tax consequences of accepting the Offer.

To the extent permissible under applicable laws and regulations, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, and in accordance with normal Dutch practice, Thales and its affiliates or its broker and its broker's affiliates (acting as agents or on behalf of Thales or its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time after the date hereof, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly purchase, or arrange to purchase Shares or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such Shares. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. In no event will any such purchases be made for a price per Share that is greater than the Offer Price. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in The Netherlands, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform U.S. shareholders of Gemalto of such information. No purchases will be made outside of the Offer in the United States of America by or on behalf of the Thales or its affiliates. In addition, the financial advisors to Thales may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Gemalto, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities. To the extent required in The Netherlands, any information about such purchases will be announced by press release in accordance with Article 13 of the Decree and posted on the website of the Offeror at www.thalesgroup.com.

Restrictions

The distribution of this press release may, in some countries, be restricted by law or regulation. Accordingly, persons who come into possession of this document should inform themselves of and observe these restrictions. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, Thales and Gemalto disclaim any responsibility or liability for the violation of any such restrictions by any person. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of that jurisdiction. Neither Thales, nor Gemalto, nor any of their advisors assumes any responsibility for any violation by any of these restrictions. Any Gemalto shareholder who is in any doubt as to his position should consult an appropriate professional advisor without delay. This announcement is not to be published or distributed in or to Australia, Canada or Japan.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release may include '"forward-looking statements" and language indicating trends, such as the words "anticipate", "expect", "approximate", "believe", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "may", "potential" and other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are only based upon currently available information and speak only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based upon management's current expectations and are subject to a significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are unknown and many of which Thales and Gemalto are unable to predict or control. Such factors may cause Thales and/or Gemalto's actual results, performance or plans with respect to the transaction between Thales and Gemalto to differ materially from any future results, performance or plans expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Neither Thales nor Gemalto, nor any of their advisors accepts any responsibility for any financial information contained in this press release relating to the business or operations or results or financial condition of the other or their respective groups. We expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Additional information and where to find it

This press release does not constitute or form a part of any offer to sell or exchange or the solicitation of an offer to buy or exchange any securities. SHAREHOLDERS OF GEMALTO AND OTHER INVESTORS ARE URGED TO READ THE OFFER MEMORANDUM (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) REGARDING THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THIS WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Gemalto shareholders will be able to obtain a free copy of the offer memorandum, as well as other filings containing information about Thales, without charge, at the website of Thales (www.thalesgroup.com). Copies of the offer memorandum and the filings that will be incorporated by reference therein can also be obtained, without charge, by directing a request to Thales's Investor Relations Department.

[1] Closing 8 December 2017 share price: EUR 32.5, 1-month VWAP of EUR 32.6, 3-month VWAP of EUR 34.35
[2] Based on 2018 IBES consensus EBIT of EUR 326m

Press release (PDF): http://hugin.info/159293/R/2156628/828839.pdf

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

- Recovery Capacity of 283 Metric Tons per Day for New Liquefied Gas Production Facility -

- Recovered CO2 from Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation's Mizushima Plant used to produce liquefied carbonic acid gas
- Project delivered safely and on-schedule, highlights MHI capabilities

TOKYO, Dec 18, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has completed installation of a carbon dioxide (CO2) capture unit at Nippon Ekitan Corporation's Mizushima Plant in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The new unit offers a recovery capacity of 283 metric tons per day (mtpd). It will capture CO2 from Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation's (MCC) Mizushima Plant, and feed it to Nippon Ekitan's new liquefied carbonic acid gas production facility.

MHI licensed its CO2 capture technology to Mitsubishi Chemical Engineering Corporation, which handles engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) of the new liquefied carbonic acid gas production facilities. MHI oversaw the basic design of the CO2 capture unit and supplied its core components.

Nippon Ekitan is a group company of Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation, which operates a carbonic acid gas business in Japan. The company mainly purchases high-concentration carbonic acid gas from petrochemical firms, ammonia manufacturers, and other producers, liquefies and refines it, and then markets it as liquefied carbonic acid gas and dry ice.

The Taiyo Nippon Sanso Group was integrated into the Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation Group in November 2014, and works in collaboration with the group's various business enterprises. This new liquefied carbonic acid gas production facility uses an absorption solvent to separate and capture CO2 from low-concentration carbonic acid gas from Mitsubishi Chemical's Mizushima Plant, where Nippon Ekitan's Mizushima Plant is located, to produce high-quality liquefied carbonic acid gas.

The liquefied carbonic acid gas facility will help to further ensure a stable supply of carbonic acid gas from Nippon Ekitan in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, and Kansai area. MHI received a letter of appreciation from the company for completing the installation on schedule and with zero accidents, working in tandem with the ongoing plant construction.

MHI's CO2 capture technology, which utilizes the KM CDR Process, uses an advanced absorption solvent (KS-1) jointly developed with Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. to achieve significant reductions in energy consumption compared with earlier methods. Since 1999 this technology has been adopted at 12 plants worldwide, capturing CO2 from the flue gas of boilers fired by coal or natural gas. This track record has made MHI the definitive global leader in the commercial application of CO2 capture units.

In addition to the production of liquefied carbonic acid gas and dry ice, MHI's CO2 capture technology can be employed for a wide range of uses, including chemical applications such as production of urea, methanol and dimethyl ether (DME), capture and storage of CO2 emitted by thermal power plants and other facilities, and enhanced oil recovery (EOR), a method of increasing crude oil production by injecting CO2 into oil reservoirs.

Going forward, MHI will continue to make contributions to sustainable economic development and environmental protection through proactive efforts to expand its advanced CO2 capture technology.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_CO2CaptureUnit.jpg
CO2 Capture Unit at Nippon Ekitan's Mizushima Plant

About Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), headquartered in Tokyo, is one of the world's leading industrial firms with 80,000 group employees and annual consolidated revenues of around 38 billion U.S. dollars. For more than 130 years, the company has channeled big thinking into innovative and integrated solutions that move the world forward. MHI owns a unique business portfolio covering land, sea, sky and even space. MHI delivers innovative and integrated solutions across a wide range of industries from commercial aviation and transportation to power plants and gas turbines, and from machinery and infrastructure to integrated defense and space systems.
For more information, please visit the MHI Group website: http://www.mhi-global.com.
For Technology, Trends and Tangents, visit MHI's new online media SPECTRA: http://spectra.mhi.com.

Contact:
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Joseph Hood, PR Manager
Email: mhi-pr@mhi.co.jp
Tel: +81-(0)3-6716-2168
Fax: +81-(0)3-6716-5860

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

TOKYO, Dec 18, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) today announced the availability of three new TWINPOS G5100Li point of sale (POS) models in the TWINPOS G5000 series for North America, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Powered by high-performance Intel processors, the processing speed is nearly twice that of previous models, resulting in faster checkout and transactions. All models offer a compact design that is approximately 20 percent smaller as compared to the previous model, enabling more efficient use of available space.

Moreover, the new models feature front panels with dust and splash-resistant flat surfaces and projected capacitive touchscreens that support multi-touch operations. Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) is available for the Intel Core i5 processor models, enabling remote investigation and recovery for cases that include OS failure, application freeze, or absence of power supply.

The TWINPOS G5000 series has been deployed at a wide variety of retail outlets, as NEC continues to strengthen its POS terminal product portfolio globally. The new model is being deployed at approximately 8,600
7-Eleven stores in the U.S.

As a part of NEC's expansion of its retail IT business, NEC has added global POS models to meet the needs of diverse store formats.

NEC's Solutions for Society promote improvements in service quality and business efficiency for retail customers globally, by offering POS terminals that feature superior technologies, reliability and durability.

Key Features of the TWINPOS G5100Li Models

1. High-performance Processor with Windows OS
The sixth generation Intel Core processors enable performance almost twice that of predecessor models, contributing to accelerated checkout transactions. Moreover, long-term support is available with an embedded OS, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB.
2. Compact Design
The projected size has been reduced by 20 percent as compared to the predecessor model. This enables an optimized store layout and installation in limited space.
3. Improved Response and Operability
Capacitive multi-touch panels improve the response and operability of the TWINPOS G5100Li for smoother transactions.
4. Dust and Splash-resistant Display
The front panel of the operator display is flat without any gaps, making it dust and splash-resistant equivalent to IP64 standards. This reduces failures caused by ingress of dust and splash.
5. Remote Investigation and Recovery
Intel AMT allows remote investigation and recovery from failures for cases that include OS failure, application freeze, or absence of power supply.

TWINPOS G5100Li Models and Shipment Schedule
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_TWINPOSG5100Li.jpg

Installation Styles
http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_NECInstallationStyles.jpg

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

Electrified vehicles to be available across the entire Toyota and Lexus line-up by around 2025

Toyota City, Japan, Dec 18, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announces today its plans toward the popularization of electrified vehicles for the decade 2020-2030. Toyota's electrified vehicle strategy centers on a significant acceleration in the development and launch plans of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

Toyota has been working toward creating ever-better cars and an ever-better society under the thinking of contributing to a sustainable society and creating mobility that brings smiles to customers. Addressing environmental challenges, such as global warming, air pollution, and limited natural resources and energy supply are of utmost importance to Toyota. "Environment" is one of the anchors of the company's product development, alongside "safety/peace of mind" and "emotion." Electrified vehicles, which are effective for economical consumption of fuel and promoting usage of alternative fuels, are indispensable in helping to solve current environmental issues. In October 2015, Toyota launched the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, which aims to reduce the negative impact of manufacturing and driving vehicles as much as possible and contribute to realizing a sustainable society. In the ever-better cars category, Toyota aims to reduce global average new-vehicle CO2 emissions by 90 percent from 2010 levels. Today's announcement is the main pillar of a mid-to-long-term initiative to achieve this challenge.

Electrification across the entire Toyota and Lexus line-up
- By around 2030, Toyota aims to have sales of more than 5.5 million electrified vehicles, including more than 1 million zero-emission vehicles (BEVs, FCEVs).
- Additionally, by around 2025, every model in the Toyota and Lexus line-up around the world will be available either as a dedicated electrified model or have an electrified option. This will be achieved by increasing the number of dedicated HEV, PHEV, BEV, and FCEV models and by generalizing the availability of HEV, PHEV and/or BEV options to all its models.
- As a result, the number of models developed without an electrified version will be zero.

Zero-emission Vehicles
- Toyota will accelerate the popularization of BEVs with more than 10 BEV models to be available worldwide by the early 2020s, starting in China, before entering other markets--the gradual introduction to Japan, India, United States and Europe is expected.
- The FCEV line-up will be expanded for both passenger and commercial vehicles in the 2020s.

Hybrid Electric and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
- The HEV line-up will also grow, thanks to the further development of the Toyota Hybrid System II (featured in the current-generation Prius and other models); the introduction of a more powerful version in some models; and the development of simpler hybrid systems in select models, as appropriate, to meet various customer needs.
- Toyota also aims to expand its PHEV line-up in the 2020s.

Coming Soon...

Batteries are a core technology of electrified vehicles and generally present limitations relating to energy density, weight/packaging, and cost. Toyota has been actively developing next-generation solid-state batteries and aims to commercialize the technology by the early 2020s. In addition, Toyota and Panasonic will start a feasibility study on a joint automotive prismatic battery business in order to achieve the best automotive prismatic battery in the industry and to ultimately contribute to the popularization of Toyota's and other automakers' electrified vehicles.

Furthermore, Toyota aims to focus on the development of a social infrastructure conducive to the widespread adoption of electrified vehicles. This includes the creation of a system to help streamline battery reuse and recycling, as well as support of the promotion of plug-in vehicle charging stations and hydrogen refueling stations through active cooperation and collaboration with government authorities and partner companies.

Toyota has been a leader in making vehicles while keeping the environment in mind. This is evident through the introduction of the iconic Prius 20 years ago, as well as the launch of the world's first PHEV, the Prius PHV, in 2012. The second-generation Prius PHV, introduced in 2017, further increased the vehicle's electric mode cruising range. Additionally, in 2014 Toyota launched the world's first mass-produced fuel cell sedan, the Mirai, which is being well-received by customers in Japan, the U.S., and Europe. Through these activities, Toyota sales of electrified vehicles have reached more than 11 million units worldwide to date.

About Toyota

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is the global mobility company that introduced the Prius hybrid-electric car in 1997 and the first mass-produced fuel cell sedan, Mirai, in 2014. Headquartered in Toyota City, Japan, Toyota has been making cars since 1937. Today, Toyota proudly employs 370,000 employees in communities around the world. Together, they build around 10 million vehicles per year in 29 countries, from mainstream cars and premium vehicles to mini-vehicles and commercial trucks, and sell them in more than 170 countries under the brands Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.

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

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

And Thinking About What One Can Do for Elementary and Secondary School Students in Japan

TOKYO, Dec 18, 2017 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced that it has created educational materials for understanding dementia and thinking about what one can do for elementary and secondary school students, and has commenced marketing these materials primarily to local governments, educational institutions as well as medical and nursing care professionals from today.

Five types of materials have been created, an educational DVD, textbooks for elementary and secondary school students as well as guides for instructors for each textbook. The DVD is a live action drama that tells the story of a family whose grandmother has dementia, and the contents enable viewers to learn what is dementia, the feelings of someone with dementia, and how to interact with people with dementia. In addition to an outline of the DVD, the textbooks contain basic knowledge on the aging society and dementia, as well as points on how to interact with people with dementia. The textbooks can be used in lessons or group work. The contents of the guides for instructors include model lesson plans, question and answer ideas and reference materials, as well as worksheets that can be used in group work.

Yukimichi Imai MD., PhD., president of the Japanese Society for Dementia Care, Director of Wako Hospital and supervisor for these materials, stated: "he person that begins suffering dementia is the one who is most distressed, and changes in symptoms may occur depending on how their family and friends act. In addition, the number of people with dementia in 2025 is estimated to reach approximately 7 million, affecting one out of every five elderly people aged over 65. However, with the rise of the nuclear family, there are more and more children and students who have few opportunities to interact with people with dementia. We believe that learning about dementia at school and thinking together about the feelings of those with dementia and how to interact with them will be a very important first step in this era of a progressively aging society. I highly endorse Eisai' efforts in creating these educational materials to think about living together with dementia."

Hideki Hayashi, representative corporate officer, Japan Business and CIO, Eisai, commented: "During our work on building communities that co-exist with dementia in collaboration with local governments, medical and nursing care professionals as well as other stakeholders, we recognized the need for dementia education in the classroom, and created educational materials that can be used in lessons such as group work to think about the feelings of people with dementia and how to interact with them, as well as for gaining knowledge on dementia. Through these materials, we hope that children will become concerned about their own grandparents and the state of elderly people in public spaces as a member of the local community, and that this will spark responses such as consulting surrounding adults when they sense something is amiss."

About Eisai

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

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

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

Hong Kong and Tokyo, Dec 18, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCBI), international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., has launched JCB J/Speedy in partnership with First Data Corporation (First Data) in Hong Kong.

JCB J/Speedy is the JCB brand contactless payment solution. JCB J/Speedy users simply tap their card or mobile phone on a reader to pay. Now they can pay at key international restaurant chains and duty free outlets using JCB J/Speedy. First Data will continue to support the rapid expansion of JCB J/Speedy acceptance in Hong Kong throughout 2018 followed by additional countries across the Asia Pacific region.

Kimihisa Imada, President & COO of JCBI, said, "This frictionless payment method will allow our cardmembers to experience more convenience and simplicity when purchasing. We thank First Data for their competence and ongoing partnership."

JCB J/Speedy payment provides an enhanced and more convenient purchasing experience for both inbound travelers and for residents of Hong Kong and at the same time is simple for merchants to accept.

"Going cashless is a key objective of many countries in the Asia Pacific region. Enabling contactless payments is a step in the right direction, offering a quick, easy and secure way to pay. We are excited to be partnering with JCB to launch the JCB J/Speedy contactless payment option in Hong Kong where First Data offers truly integrated, omni-channel solutions that enable commerce for a large number of key merchants in the Hong Kong market," stated Ivo Distelbrink, EVP, Head of Asia Pacific for First Data.

*JCB J/Speedy: The JCB brand contactless payment solution that is compliant with NFC and EMV(R) Contactless Communication Protocol Specifications. (EMV(R) is a registered trademark in the U.S. and other countries and an unregistered trademark elsewhere. The EMV trademark is owned by EMVCo.)

About JCB

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

About First Data

First Data (NYSE: FDC) is a global leader in commerce-enabling technology and solutions, serving approximately six million business locations and 4,000 financial institutions in more than 100 countries around the world. The company's 24,000 owner-associates are dedicated to helping companies, from start-ups to the world's largest corporations, conduct commerce every day by securing and processing more than 2,800 transactions per second and $2.2 trillion per year.

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

Liidia Liuksila
First Data Corporation
Tel: +1 (212) 515-0174
Email: Liidia.Liuksila@FirstData.com

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

Builds up Solid Financial Reserves for Enhancing Property Portfolio

HONG KONG, Dec 18, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - Emperor International Holdings Limited ("Emperor International") (Stock code: 163) today announced the signing of a club loan facility agreement amounting to HK$2,500 million (the "Club Loan") with nine major banks. The proceeds of the Club Loan will be used for general working capital purposes.

The nine major banks are The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation ("HSBC"), Hang Seng Bank Limited, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Industrial & Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Limited, China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited, Bank of Communications Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, The Bank of East Asia, Limited, and OCBC Wing Hang Bank Limited.

Mr. Benson Chu, Chief Financial Officer of Emperor Group, said, "We are honored to receive overwhelming responses from 9 major banks, which represents their truly confidence in our business development and financial capability. The Club Loan will effectively manage to reduce its overall interest costs, enhance its cashflow management flexibility to support its business growth and development."

Mr. Donald Cheung, Executive Director of Emperor International, said, "Such transaction marks a significant milestone of Emperor International. With diversified financial resources, we will continue to source quality investment and development projects with good potential, aiming to provide the best return to various stakeholders including our shareholders, bondholders and financial partners."

In October 2017, HSBC Asia Credit Research Team published a research report on un-rated major property bond issuers in Hong Kong and in which initiated coverage of Emperor International with an overweight fundamental recommendation based on its quality property investment portfolio and growth in recurrent rental income, reflecting its quality of financial credibility gained professional recognition.

About Emperor International Holdings Limited
Emperor International is an investment holding company, which is principally engaged in property investments, property development and hospitality with property portfolio of over 5 million square feet in the Greater China and overseas. Under its tri-engine business model, Emperor International owns many investment properties in prime locations that generate stable recurrent income; runs many property development projects for earning visibility; and develops hospitality services with strong recurrent cash flow. With its management execution strengths and market insight, Emperor International aims to be a key property player in Greater China. For more information, please visit its website: www.EmperorInt.com.

Investor / Press Enquiry
Ms Anna Luk,
Group IR Director
Tel: +852 2835 6783
Email: annaluk@emperorgroup.com

Ms Winnie Kwong,
Group IR Manager
Tel: +852 2835 6791
Email: winniekwong@emperorgroup.com

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

UK Firms Polled on Post-BREXIT Strategy

HONG KONG, Dec 18, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) expects Hong Kong exports to increase in value by six percent, while the volume of exports is anticipated to grow by four percent in 2018. HKTDC Director of Research Nicholas Kwan attributed the rise to broad-based expansion in investment, trade and consumption, coupled with strengthening consumer and business confidence.

"Overall demand will remain sturdy with the expansion in both developed and emerging economies," said Mr Kwan. "This year's positive export trend will likely carry on to next year, though the pace of growth is expected to slow. But there are formidable challenges facing Hong Kong exporters, such as rising Sino-US trade tensions, the possibility of a faster-than-expected tightening of US monetary policy and escalating geopolitical tension."

 
----------------------------------------------------------------------
                             Value      Volume      Unit value change
----------------------------------------------------------------------
2017 (estimate)              +8.0%       +6.2%                  +1.8%
----------------------------------------------------------------------
2018 (forecast)              +6.0%       +4.0%                  +2.0%
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Exporters' Confidence Level Improved in 2017

The latest HKTDC Export Index, published today, shows the confidence level of Hong Kong exporters has improved substantially compared to the previous year. The Index monitors the current export performance of Hong Kong traders and gauges their near-term prospects. Reading above and below 50 indicate positive and negative sentiment, respectively. Overall, the average HKTDC Export Index level in 2017 was 47, significantly higher than last year's 36.8.

In the fourth quarter of 2017, the Index dropped by 1.6 points from the previous quarter to 44.6, with only the toy sector showing improvement, at 43.3, up from last quarter's 41.2. "This indicates exporters' conservative sentiment towards Hong Kong's short-term export performance. But, they are optimistic about the year ahead: 76 per cent of the exporters surveyed expect their sales to increase or remain unchanged in 2018," said Mr Kwan.

Meanwhile, the Trade Value Index recorded a 14-quarter high of 52.1, indicating that unit prices are expected to rise across key industries.

Developed Economies continue to Improve

Growth in the United States has been driven by both private consumption and equipment investment. "Another positive development is the rise in business investment, making US economic expansion increasingly broad-based across sectors," said HKTDC Principal Economist (Greater China) Billy Wong. "The promised pro-growth tax overhaul is making headway and is expected to provide an additional boost."

Mr Wong added that economic growth has surpassed expectations in the European Union, propelled by private consumption amid lowering unemployment, while investment has also showed signs of picking up, thanks to low borrowing costs.

Developing Asia Remains Vibrant

Mr Wong said rising consumption in the developed nations will boost export-oriented emerging economies. "The Chinese mainland is expected to maintain its current growth level," he said. "Supply-side reforms will continue to be a priority to improve the efficiency of the economy. As part of the strategy to rebalance the economy, using private consumption as a growth driver appears to be gaining ground. China is also adopting policies to bring in more imports to help satisfy domestic consumer demand."

He added that, spurred by a decent global trade environment, robust domestic demand and growing foreign investment, the pace of growth among ASEAN economies has quickened, with the momentum expected to continue. "Rising export production should fuel demand for imported intermediate and capital goods," Mr Wong added.

Favourable Prospects for Hong Kong Exports in 2018

Electronics and toys outperformed other sectors and the new-tech products are in the spotlight. Mr Wong identified some bright spots in several industries:

- Electronics: Emerging technologies, such as cloud computing, the Internet of Things and, big data, are likely to boost demand for semi-conductors and related parts and components. Prospects for AR/VR applications, robotics, as well as wearable electronics, especially those with smart home/smart living applications, remain positive.

- Clothing: The development of fast-fashion and simple-style clothing will benefit lower-end exporters, while the higher-end market will also pick up when shoppers start to look for more fashionable items as their incomes rise.

- Toys: Demand for educational toys is expected to continue, led by blockbuster licensed toys, STREAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, maths and robotics) toys and those that incorporate VR and AR applications.

- Timepieces: Sales of luxury watches should hold steady while demand for fashionable watches is on the rise. Smart watches with functions such as fitness tracking, smart notifications and mobile connectivity are likely to remain popular.

- Jewellery: Platinum jewellery is expected to be popular because of the metal's sluggish price, while demand for gold jewellery remains stable. Sales of fine jewellery are also likely to pick up, especially those with fine design and craftsmanship.

UK Businesses Target non-EU Markets

To gauge the impact of the impending departure of the UK from the European Union on business, HKTDC Research recently conducted a survey during the Council's flagship event 'Think Asia, Think Hong Kong', in London. The study sought to learn more about how UK companies perceive the impact of Brexit on their business, and assess their Brexit readiness, as well as their plans to explore future non-EU business opportunities.

The survey results found that most of the UK enterprises interviewed had either adopted a "wait and see" approach (30%) or intended to focus/invest more in non-EU markets in the future (35%), with developing Asia (including the Chinese mainland, India and the ASEAN bloc) high on their agenda.

"This is in line with the finding that 75 per cent of respondents were interested in capitalising on the opportunities emerging from the Belt and Road Initiative," said Louis Chan, HKTDC Assistant Principal Economist (Global Research). "Of those companies looking to explore new markets, securing the appropriate professional service support and researching their target overseas markets were key strategies for their post-Brexit business development."

Nearly half of the respondents indicated they would seek professional services support from Hong Kong (24%), the Chinese mainland (15%) or Singapore (10%) as an initial step. Thirty-seven per cent of the respondents considered establishing a regional office or regional headquarters in Hong Kong as a way to access and service their chosen overseas markets.

More than 80 per cent acknowledged that Hong Kong's professional services sector - including companies providing financial, legal or marketing support - could contribute significantly to accessing the emerging business opportunities in many of the Belt and Road countries. As such, those respondents said they were open to learning more about Hong Kong's pivotal role in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Reference:
- HKTDC Research webpage: www.hktdc.com/research
- Hong Kong Export Prospects 2018: http://goo.gl/w3fDnX
- HKTDC Fourth Quarter 2017 Export Indices: http://goo.gl/YuYs1U
- Brexit Survey: UK Businesses Already Targetting Non-EU Markets: http://bit.ly/2jLijcQ
- HKTDC Business-Stat Online: http://bit.ly/1ITG8bs
- Photos Download: http://bit.ly/2jbn5zY
- Podcast: Hong Kong Export Outlook 2018: http://goo.gl/X87pvp

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
Comms & Public Affairs Dept
Beatrice Lam
T: +852 2584 4049
E: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org

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

Advancing digitalisation in Hong Kong and international markets to create a better future for the community

HONG KONG, Dec 18, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - HGC Global Communications Limited ("HGC") (formerly known as Hutchison Global Communications Limited), a full-fledged fixed-line operator with extensive Hong Kong and international network coverage and infrastructure, provides various kinds of services. The company unveiled its new name and brand identity today. HGC strives to enable people to live better lives in a smart environment by empowering boundless communications. HGC's new tagline reflects its brand identity: "Embrace technology. Enjoy communications. Enrich your world." The new brand identity also embodies HGC's mission to combine its network infrastructure with the latest technology to strengthen connections among people and businesses in the Digital Era.

HGC's network of more than 1.4 million kilometres of fibre-optic cable serves the needs of international and local carriers, corporate clients and home users. The company provides comprehensive information and communications technology (ICT) solutions to corporate and institutional customers, including a majority of the Hang Seng Index Constituent companies and Hong Kong government departments. It also offers infrastructure network such as data centre service to mobile operators, international telecom operators and internet service providers. HGC serves approximately 300,000 households in Hong Kong. The company is also one of the largest Wi-Fi service providers in Hong Kong with more than 29,000 Wi-Fi hotspots.

With its extensive global network covering Asia, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Europe, HGC connects economies of all sizes, from major communications centres to emerging markets, and serves diverse end-users including international wholesale carriers, mobile operators and enterprises, supported by a global team of professionals in 21 offices around the world. HGC serves as a hub, facilitating mobile traffic among mobile operators, over-the-top (OTT) and application service providers. Leveraging its solid international connections, HGC provides tailored solutions to satisfy all levels of customers' needs, including niche markets such as the Greater Mekong Subregion, Middle East and Eastern Europe.

Looking forward, HGC will reinforce its position in Hong Kong and beyond by strengthening its full-fibre infrastructure network to support new technology, such as 5G. It will also invest in valued-added services and innovative solutions, including software-defined applications, integrated cloud and network security solutions for its global customers.

Mr. Andrew Kwok, Chief Executive Officer of HGC, said, "The ever-changing telecom industry continues to shape the way we conduct business and connect with each other. With the increasing globalisation, personalisation and fragmentation, our world is entering its 'Fourth Industrial Revolution' where we will participate and drive the change. The advances in telecom technology are imminent-it takes robust and flexible infrastructure networks to channel vast amounts of data around the world. This rebranding reinforces our vision to bring the best communications technologies to communities and individuals for sustainable growth and development in the Digital Era."

As part of its rebranding HGC plans to initiate a series of marketing campaigns, starting with its role as sole Hong Kong presenting sponsor for the 2017-18 Volvo Ocean Race, the preeminent around the world sailing competition. The race is held every three years since 1973, in which the contestants take about nine months to sail around the globe accompanied with hardships and challenges. This marks the first time the extreme sailing competition has included Hong Kong as a stopover port on its route, with competitors expected to arrive in late January, 2018. Embarking on its new journey, and sharing the same visions and determination as the successful world-class yachting athletes, HGC will endeavour to reach its full potential and continue to scale new heights in its business development.

About HGC Global Communications Limited
HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC) is a leading Hong Kong and international fixed-line operator. The company owns an extensive network and infrastructure in Hong Kong and overseas and provides various kinds of services. It provides telecom infrastructure service to others operators and serves as a service provider to corporate and households. The company provides full-fledged telecom, data centre services, ICT solutions and broadband services for local, overseas, corporate and mass markets. HGC owns and operates an extensive fibre-optic network, four cross-border telecom routes integrated into tier-one telecom operators in mainland China and connects with hundreds of world-class international telecom operators. HGC is one of Hong Kong's largest Wi-Fi service providers, running over 29,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in Hong Kong. The company is committed to further investing and enriching its current infrastructure and, in parallel, adding on top the latest technologies and developing its infrastructure services and solutions. HGC is a portfolio company of I Squared Capital, an independent global infrastructure investment manager focusing on energy, utilities and transport in North America, Europe and selected fast-growing economies.

To learn more, please visit HGC's website at: www.hgc.com.hk

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

Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia, Dec 19, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - PT Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk ("BNI") and PT JCB International Indonesia, a subsidiary of JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd. ("JCB") today launch a new product of credit card for the mass segment, called BNI JCB Gold Card. This product, which comes in two designs: Generic and Doraemon Edition, is mainly targeting the first jobber, young, Japan lover and people who have a strong attraction to the Doraemon character.

The launching ceremony was attended by President Director of JCB Indonesia, Mr. Koichiro Wada, and General Manager Card Business Division of BNI, Mrs. Corina Leyla Karnalies in Surabaya, on 19 December 2017. This new product will strengthen the relationship between BNI and JCB.

Previously, BNI and JCB have issued a credit card for the platinum segment. By having BNI JCB Gold Card in the BNI product line, BNI and JCB can serve a wider segment, and present the BNI and JCB brand to the young generation with high quality services, benefits and attractive designs to meet the needs and progressive lifestyles of Indonesian customers.

Talking about the Doraemon design card, Doraemon is one of the most famous characters not only in Japan but around the world. The Doraemon character is so close in the minds of children and even adults as a cheerful character in Indonesia. The popularity of Doraemon has a massive potential to make this new product attract specific segment customers that existing products did not reach. BNI and JCB will aim to have a more extensive presence with this new product that is the first Doraemon credit card in Indonesia.

BNI - Card Business Division, Corina Leyla Karnalies, said, "BNI continues to meet the various needs of customers of BNI Credit Card product owners. BNI provides BNI JCB Gold Card members with a wide range of benefits including free annual member fee for the first year, and free for the second year if there is a transaction in the first year." In addition, BNI JCB Gold Card members are entitled to get 1 reward point for each Rp 2,500 spent. With these benefits, this BNI JCB Gold Card is suitable to be owned by young customers and first jobbers.

In addition to these, that JCB provides various services to the customer. JCB has many privilege merchants across Indonesia including dining merchants and also has special programs with travel and e-commerce merchants. In terms of international services, JCB provides lounge service in the center of the city in several famous travel destinations such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, Taipei and Paris. With the BNI JCB Gold Card, customers can enjoy all these services. These services satisfy the needs of the target segment for this card.

BNI has a long history as the first bank in Indonesia established by the national government in 1946, which contributes to positive growth in the credit card business. BNI is also sitting in the top level of the card market, in both the number of cards issued and the number of merchants acquired.

Combining BNI achievements and strong network in Indonesia with JCB Japan quality and technology, we can be assured that this collaboration can accelerate the growth of electronic payment, deliver added value to merchants and provide a better experience for cardholders in more segments.

About JCB

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

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

PT JCB International Indonesia
Yosuke Higuchi
General Manager
Tel: +62 21 3193 8104
Email: y.higuchi@jcb-intl.id

About BNI

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. or BNI was established on 5 July 1946 and became the first state-owned bank after independence of Indonesia. BNI served as a central bank and public bank as contained in Government Regulation in Lieu of Law No. 2/1946 before finally operating as a commercial bank since 1955. Until the end of the 3rd Quarter 2017, BNI has 2.102 outlets in 34 provinces and 420 regencies and cities. BNI has 32 Middle Credit Center (SKM), 24 Small Credit Center (SKC), and 12 Consumer & Retail Loan Center (LNC).

Now, BNI has 17.966 ATMs in 34 provinces and 521 regencies and cities including 6 (six) ATMs overseas, namely 4 ATMs in Hong Kong and 2 ATMs in Singapore. Those ATM network can also be used for debit card transactions with Link, ATM Bersama, and Prima logo. BNI as a holding company has 4 subsidiaries, namely BNI Syariah (sharia banking), BNI Life (insurance), BNI Securities (stock market), and BNI Multifinance (financing). BNI Asset Management is a subsidiary of BNI Securities.

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

- Offering stronger disaster prevention measures with accurate grasp of earthquake observation data -

TOKYO, Dec 19, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced the supply of a wide-area disaster prevention system to the Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (Indonesia). A grant aid from the Japanese government program for improving equipment for disaster risk management will be used for this system, which is scheduled to commence operation in the first half of 2018.

Indonesia is a country with an extremely high risk of earthquakes, as seen by the significant damage caused by the Great Sumatra Earthquake in December 2004. Forecast and warning systems for earthquakes and tsunamis have already been established and operated, but there is demand to improve the accuracy of epicenter analysis and magnitude estimation.

This wide-area disaster prevention system will gather seismic intensity and waveform information obtained from seismometers newly installed at 93 sites across Indonesia. The data will be provided to a server at the headquarters of the Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency in Jakarta on a real-time basis via a satellite-based communication system (VSAT).

The operation will enable the Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency to monitor seismic activity constantly and improve the accuracy of epicenter analysis and magnitude estimation.

"NEC's system will contribute to efforts in Indonesia to reduce damage caused by disasters and increase the capacity to cope with them by quickly and accurately grasping and sharing seismological observation data," said Minoru Hirata, General Manager, Smart Infrastructure Division, NEC Corporation. "Moreover, NEC aims to reinforce these efforts by proposing systems that are capable of detecting earthquakes and providing early warnings about related tremors, as well as systems that detect tsunami waves."

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.

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.

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

Joseph Jasper
NEC Corporation
j-jasper@ax.jp.nec.com
+81-3-3798-6511

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

Around 130 children participate in this event

Yangon and Tokyo, Dec 19, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB Co., Ltd. (JCB) partnered with Global Football Academy (GFA) operated by Samurai Pte Ltd. to hold soccer events for children in Southeast Asia. The first event was held in Yangon in Myanmar for two days on 17 and 18 December 2017. JCB is considering holding soccer events in other countries in Southeast Asia in the future.

Soccer is a very popular sport in Southeast Asia for both adults and children. JCB and GFA, which does soccer and other related business in Southeast Asia, are showing children in Southeast Asia just how fun sports can be and at the same time deepening the friendship between Japan and Southeast Asian countries through soccer. At this event in Yangon, famous soccer players and coaches active in the Myanmar National League taught and played together with around 130 children.

JCB and GFA will continue to contribute to society and promote communication with the people of Southeast Asia via soccer in the future as well.

Overview of the soccer event for children in Myanmar
1. Host
Hosted by: JCB
Organized by: GFA
Supported by: Myanmar National League soccer players and coaches

2. Date, location and participants
(1) Date: 17 December 2017, Sunday
Place: Myanmar Football Federation Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon.
Participants: Around 100 participants including around 90 children
(2) Date: 18 December 2017, Monday
Place: Dream Train in Yangon
Participants: Around 50 participants including around 40 children

About Dream Train
Dream Train is youth development home which opened in 2010 in Yangon by the NPO Japan Heart. Children at the home are fed, educated, and receive vocational training leading to independence. JCB and GFA visited the home on 18 December.

About Dream Train and other Japan Heart activities in Myanmar:
http://www.japanheart.org/en/myanmar/

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

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

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

HONG KONG, Dec 19, 2017 - (ACN Newswire) - ASM Pacific Technology Ltd. (ASMPT), a world leader in the supply of semiconductor assembly and packaging equipment and materials, as well as surface mount technology solutions announced today that it has been awarded the Technological Achievement Grand Award of the Hong Kong Awards for Industries (HKIA) 2017. This is the third time ASMPT has bagged this award, with prior win in 1999 and 2015, respectively.

Established in Hong Kong since 1975, ASMPT has always been in the forefront to develop new technology and spur innovation. These are best exemplified in its long-standing policy to invest up to 10% of its annual equipment revenue in R&D irrespective of short term sales fluctuations, as well as collaboration with various research institutes and customers on joint projects to explore new technologies and ideas.

The Award was granted to ASMPT based on key judging criteria of excellence in technology and intellectual property, impact on the industry, market recognition and its contribution to Hong Kong industry.

This time, ASMPT is recognized for its significant achievement in its innovative Active Alignment Solution that allows CMOS camera module (CCM) for smart phones to be built with the best optical performance for capturing outstanding pictures. Through unrelenting efforts in research and development and years of engagement with leaders of the industry, ASMPT has designed the industry's leading active alignment system that has been used to assemble more than 80% of the high-end mobile phone CCM in the global market. Developed by its R&D team in Hong Kong and manufactured in China, the IS600GS is a fully automatic active alignment platform for high volume manufacturing. Known in the industry as the de facto active alignment platform, IS600GS's value propositions include offering customers the highest productivity with lowest cost of ownership and best quality.

"We are much honored to receive such prestigious award for the third time as it firmly attests to the Group's commitment in driving innovation and delivering the highest value and innovative solutions to our customers. This Award is a testament for our talented and committed employees in Hong Kong who have worked passionately and relentlessly to pursue innovation." said Mr. Lee Wai Kwong, CEO of ASMPT.

Mr. Lee continued, "We also strongly believe in creating opportunities to nurture and groom young engineering talents in Hong Kong and other societies where ASMPT operates. With this in mind, we have been collaborating closely with local universities and technical institutes in the region through internship programs and scholarship opportunities, and also launched the ASM Technology Award in Hong Kong three years ago to recognize and reward students with outstanding Final Year Projects which demonstrate excellence in technology and innovation. Moving forward, ASMPT will continuously strengthen its research and innovation arena so as to harness technology and to provide the best innovative products with differentiated values to our customers"

About ASM Pacific Technology
ASMPT, founded in 1975, is the only company in the world that can offer high-quality equipment for all major steps in the electronics manufacturing process - from carrier for chip interconnection to chip assembly and packaging to SMT. No other supplier offers a comparable range and depth of process expertise.

ASMPT's Back-end Equipment Business offers a diverse product range from bonding to molding and trim & form to the integration of these activities into complete in-line systems for the microelectronics, semiconductor, photonics, and optoelectronics industries. Its Materials Business provides customers with a variety of leadframes such as etched and stamping as well as advanced packaging materials. ASMPT' SMT Solutions develops and sells best-in-class DEK printers for the SMT, semiconductor and solar markets as well as best-in-class SIPLACE SMT placement solutions.

ASMPT is listed in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1989.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Hong Kong
Mandy Go
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Tel: (852) 2864 4812
Email: mandy.go@sprg.com.hk

Singapore
Joey Ng
Senior Manager, Corporate Communications
Tel: (65) 6750 9567
Email: joey.ng@asmpt.com
Website: www.asmpacific.com

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