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Technology & Talent Visualised as Key Growth Drivers in Asia Pacific Corporate Real Estate at the CoreNet Global Summit 2018

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These factors will drive CRE in an uncertain business landscape typified by geopolitical shifts and technological disruption

SINGAPORE, Mar 20, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - A record 740 corporate real estate professionals attended the CoreNet Global Summit 2018 staged by the world's leading corporate real estate (CRE) association, CoreNet Global, in this month in Singapore.

The two-day summit revolved around nascent and current developments such as geopolitical shifts and technological disruption, which have complicated decision-making in many organisations across Asia Pacific. More than 40 thought leaders shed light on the critical relationship between an organisation's productivity, bottom line, and effective CRE management, empowering attendees with the required knowledge to thrive amidst uncertainty.

Investment in technology and talent development emerged as critical factors to succeed in Asia Pacific's rapidly evolving business landscape. Moving ahead, progressive technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, the Internet-of-Things (IoT), and Big Data Analytics are anticipated to change the nature of jobs, streamlining and automating clerical and routine operations that allow people to take on higher-value tasks.

Renowned futurist and Director of Cognizant's Centre for the Future of Work Ben Pring opened the summit with a discussion on the technology-driven future of work. Amidst job replacement anxieties spurred by advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, Pring presented the potential of machines to complement and enhance human efforts, citing the sheer potential of AI as a game changer in fields such as banking, medicine and the creative economy.

Breakout sessions conducted throughout the summit have also crystallised the evolving nature of employee collaboration and engagement in light of IoT, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). With millennials seen to comprise 50% of the global workforce, the workplace is expected to accommodate more interfaces that leverage practical technology and enhanced VR and AR interaction to drive human connectivity.

Agility and innovation will become vital components for organisational success in today's highly volatile business landscape. Organisations will need to break free from the traditional office space paradigm and integrate technologies that effectively support workplace dynamism, workforce empowerment and active participation while fostering a healthy "work anywhere, anytime" culture.

Co-working spaces, which promote inter-tenant interaction, are now found to directly impact freelancers' well-being, creativity, and productivity. Developers hosting flexible spaces within buildings will also able to effectively address changing business and tenant demands, translating to optimised occupancy and space utilisation.

Favourable geopolitical and economic shifts will also contribute to Asia Pacific becoming a key node in the world economy. Asia Pacific is expected to be a hotbed of corporate real estate activity in the near future, with changes in the business sector driven by rapid urbanisation, rise of the middle class and millennials, consumers' growing levels of technological savviness, and the introduction of robust, pro-growth policies from governments.

The introduction of regional initiatives such as the Chinese-led Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which spans regions collectively representing 63% of the global population and 30% of the world's GDP, will shift global dynamics with the emergence of industries and cities across Asia. CRE practitioners will then need to be cognizant of how they can value add to the BRI effort, enabling their organisations to capitalise on growth opportunities along the Belt and Road.

The finals of the 2018 CoreNet Global Academic Challenge were also hosted at the summit. This year saw the team from Georgia Tech besting two other university teams in crafting a risk management strategy for mitigating an organisation's real estate portfolio risk exposure. The annual activity exposes student teams to real-world CRE professional challenges, aiming to grow the CRE talent pipeline by raising awareness of the profession across academic disciplines.

"The successful conclusion of CoreNet Global Summit 2018 is an affirmation of CoreNet Global's value in advancing the profession of strategic corporate real estate management and in helping our members exploit uncertainty and add value to their enterprises," said Tim Venable, Senior Vice President at CoreNet Global. "With the insights gleaned at the Summit, our members are better positioned to drive their CRE organisations forward in a period of unprecedented change, both in the Asia-Pacific region and worldwide."

Press release (PDF): http://www.acnnewswire.com/clientreports/598/CoreNet_2018320.pdf

ABOUT CORENET GLOBAL

CoreNet Global is the world's leading professional association for corporate real estate (CRE) executives with strategic responsibility for the real property used by multinational corporations for their own operations. CoreNet Global's nearly 11,000 members, who include 70% of the top 100 U.S. companies and nearly half of the Global 2000, meet locally, globally, and virtually to develop networks, share knowledge, learn and thrive professionally. For more information, please visit www.corenetglobal.org.

Contact:
Charlene Pe/Tan Yanchang
PRecious Communications
+65 6303 0567
CoreNetGlobal@preciouscomms.com

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited Revenue Soars 63.7% in 2017

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Contributed by Robust Slot Machine Sales

HONG KONG, Mar 20, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited ("APE" or the "Company", with its subsidiaries collectively referred as the "Group"; Stock Code: 8400.HK), a leading Electronic Gaming Equipment supplier in Macau, is pleased to announce the audited consolidated annual results of the year ended 31 December 2017 ("FY2017").

FY2017 highlights
- Revenue generated from technical sales and distribution segment surged 74% year-on-year
- Excluding listing expenses, profit after tax increased by 34.5% year-on-year from approximately HK$13.9 million to approximately HK$18.7 million

Latest developments
- The Group concluded sales of 319 refurbished slots, which formed a new business segment for the Group
- Its 18,000 sq. ft. integrated office with workshop and warehouse is expected to open in the second quarter of 2018

Industry Review
The overall Macau gaming market has rebounded in 2017 seeing its first growth in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) in 3 years. GGR jumped 19.1% to MOP264.7 billion (USD33.0 billion) in 2017 on a year-on-year basis. Mass-market gaming, including play from slot machines and ETG, was MOP31.7 billion in the last quarter of 2017, a rise of 17.1% from MOP27.1 billion year-on-year from the fourth quarter of 2016. The overall gaming equipment markets in Macau expanded in 2017 due primarily to the openings of 2 major casinos, namely the Wynn Palace in Coati strip and Legend Palace in Fisherman's Wharf.

Business Review
The Group is a total solutions provider of electronic gaming equipment ("EGE") for land based casinos in Macau as well as other regions in Asia. EGE principally include electronic table games ("ETG") and electronic gaming machines ("EGM" or "Slot Machines"). The Group's business can be segmented into: (i) technical sales and distribution of EGEs to land based casinos; (ii) the repair and sale of EGEs plus spare parts; (iii) consultancy to suppliers or manufacturers of EGE products to the casino gaming supplier market; and (iv) sales of refurbished EGMs.

In FY2017, the Group's revenue increased by 63.7% to approximately HK$86.1 million from approximately HK$52.6 million in 2016. Gross Profit increased by 49.9% to approximately HK$34.8 million in 2017 from approximately HK$23.2 million in 2016, thanks to new casino openings in Macau in 2017 which created strong demand for our products and led to an increase in technical sales and distribution segment of 74.0% year-on-year in revenue in 2017.

Due to listing expenses of approximately HK$14.2 million, net profit before tax fell by 37.8% to approximately HK$7.1 million in 2017 from approximately HK$11.5 million in 2016. Excluding listing expenses, the Group's profit after tax increased by 34.5% from approximately HK$13.9 million in 2016 to approximately HK$18.7 million in 2017.

The net profit attributable to shareholders in 2017 is approximately HK$4.5 million after listing expenses and income tax expense (2016: approximately HK$9.6 million).

Prospect
Looking ahead, management believes that the Group's prospect will continue to ride on the rebound of Macau's GGR as well as the growth of mass-market gaming. In 2018, there will be 2 new major casinos, namely MGM Cotai as well as Grand Lisboa Palace Cotai, opening, creating a favourable backdrop for the Group's sale and distribution business in Macau.

For the year ahead, the Group will continue to implement its business plan and use of proceeds as outlined in our listing prospectus. It has already concluded the sale of our first batch of refurbished slots, a batch of 319 used slots which we purchased, refurbished in Macau and resold. Management is also actively pursuing leasing agreements with Macau operators, and is continuing to pursue distribution opportunities in Asia outside of Macau. In our consulting services business, APE has signed with a major supplier of ticket printers to be their official repair centre for the Asia Pacific region.

In the second quarter of 2018, the Company is expected relocate to a new 18,000 sq ft premise which is an integrated office with workshop and warehouse. We believe that the expanded facility will allow us to capture greater market share and enhance our reputation as a total solutions provider of EGEs in Macau.

About Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited
Asia Pioneer Entertainment Limited (APE) was established in 2006 in Macau. APE is an approved gaming machine agent licensed by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau of Macau (DICJ). Since its founding, APE has been dedicating its business to introducing innovative gaming products to casino operators in Macau and other Asian countries. APE is focused on providing a full range of customised and integrated solutions for the Electronic Gaming Equipment industry. With an established track record of supplying Electronic Gaming Equipment to casino operators in Macau and Asia, APE is a now a global distributor, presenting gaming manufacturers from Slovenia, US, Taiwan and Australia. It has well established business relationships with casino operators in Macau and Philippines.

This press release is disseminated by Frement Financial Relations Limited on behalf of Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited.

For further enquiries, please contact Frement Financial Relations Limited:

Ms. Dawn Lee
Tel: (852) 2890 8262
Mob: (852) 6155 8827
Email: dawn@frement.com

Ms. Ashley Kung
Tel: (852) 2890 8262
Mob: (852) 6608 9927
Email: ashley@frement.com

Ms. Vanessa Wong
Tel: (852) 2890 8262
Mob: (852) 61271953
Email: vanessa@frement.com


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Hengdeli Announces 2017 Annual Results

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Maintaining Stable and Healthy Growth and Seeking Sustainable Development

HONG KONG, Mar 20, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Hengdeli Holdings Limited ("Hengdeli" or the "Company" and, together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"; stock code: 3389), an international retailer of renowned brand watches and manufacturer of watch accessories, announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2017 (" the year under review").

Results Summary:
- Recorded revenue of RMB2,439,022,000, representing a year-on-year increase of1.3%
- Gross profit margin was approximately15.8%, representing a year-on-year increase of 20bpsLossof the group for the year amounted to approximately RMB165,080,000, narrowing 40.1% as compared with the loss recorded in the same period of last year.

2017 has seen a gradually improved trends of recovery from sluggishness in global and China's economic conditions. There were numerous risks and challenges lingering on corporate operations, especially in the first half of the year. As at 31 December 2017, the Group recorded revenue of RMB2,439,022,000, representing a year-on-year increase of 1.3%; the Group recorded a loss of approximately RMB165,080,000, narrowing 40.1% as compared with the loss recorded in the same period of last year. The loss was mainly due to the deduction of non-recurring profits tax on the disposal, redemption of senior notes and impairment on goodwill etc.

For the purpose of safe and healthy development, the Group completed a very substantial disposal in the first half of the year under review. After the completion of which, the Group's business mainly covered sales of international renowned watches in areas such as Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan and manufacturing of related accessories.

For the sales of renowned watches, the Group operated a total of 61 retail outlets in areas such as Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan as at 31 December 2017. With the gradual improvement of the business environment and the enhancement of the management level, the Group's sales in Hong Kong recovered steadily, reversing the continuous decline in recent years. The retail sector in Taiwan remains stable and does not have much change compared to that of last year.

During the year under review, an "Elegant" multi-brand shop was opened on Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay where has all long been a commercially prosperous district. The opening of this shop contributes to the increase of the Group's sales in Hong Kong. The Group opened an "Elegant" store at Section 5, Chungshiao East Road in the downtown area of Taipei in May 2017. The store was a self-owned property. The opening of the store saves a considerable amount of rental costs, driving sales growth, increasing the Group's market share in the Taiwan region and while embodying the Group's strategic goal of in-depth development in the Taiwan region.

The Group continued to progress well in the watch accessories business during the year under review. With the increasing industrial investment and the enriching customer resources, the Group has also collaborated more closely with brand suppliers. Stable increase was achieved in the Group's export business and during the year under review, the Group's two new factories located in Suzhou and Guangzhou respectively have been formally put into operation, and both are designed in compliance with the latest requirements of "Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)". Meanwhile, highly qualified specialists are engaged for technical innovation. Through unremitting efforts, the manufacture and sale of Group's accessories keeps a good momentum of growth, an increase of 6% as compared with the same period of last year. The overall market competitiveness has achieved a better result.

The Group's customer service and maintenance team keeps the promise of "Cutting-edge technology, efficient management, and considerate services". It is the best guarantee for consumers. With continuous training provided by brand suppliers to the Group's technical personnel and the human resources policy of recruiting talents worldwide, the Group has been able to retain the support of elite technicians and its world-wide cutting edge maintenance expertise.

At present, the global economy has begun to fully recover. High-quality development will create a new era of global economy and thus bring new development opportunities to other Southeast Asian regions including Hong Kong and Macau and also bring good prospects to the Company. Amidst the new economic environment, the Group will keep seeking truth from facts, and striving for progress by sticking to the principle of "maintaining stable and healthy growth and seeking sustainable development". The Group will endeavor to keep its renowned watch sales healthy and stable and will step up efforts in promoting watch accessories manufacturing and other businesses, and on the other hand, standing on a new starting point, the Group will also put their heads together and all efforts to explore to engage a deeper level of cooperation with brand suppliers and international peers through various ways, continue to expand business coverage, diversify business models and seek for newer and broader development for the Group in order to create greater value for both shareholders and community at large.

Hengdeli Holdings Limited
Hengdeli Holdings Limited (the "Company" or "Hengdeli" and its subsidiaries, collectively as the "Group") is a recognised retailer of internationally renowned brand watches and manufacturer of watch accessories. The Group's shareholders include: the Zhang family; the prestigious watch manufacturer SWATCH Group; distributor and internationally respected luxury goods conglomerate LVHM Group.

The Group owns an extensive retail network comprised of: "Elegant" (top internationally renowned brand watches), "Hengdeli" (mid and mid-to-high end internationally renowned brand watches), as well as single-brand boutiques. As at 31 December 2017, the Group had 61 retail outlets, selling watches from more than 50 internationally renowned brands in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan etc, and provides comprehensive after-sales services for internationally renowned brand watches.

The Group also owns a number of watch accessories manufacturing enterprises, including the manufacturing of furniture and items used for watch sales and watch packaging products, commercial space design, production and decoration, serving customers throughout the greater China region, Asia Pacific and other countries and regions such as Switzerland and the United States.

The Group has maintained sound and in-depth collaborations with many world-renowned premier brand suppliers including SWATCH Group, LVMH Group, RICHEMONT Group, and KERING Group etc..

The Company has been listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 2005 under stock code 3389. The abbreviated stock name is: Hengdeli


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Sisram Med Presents its Best Annual Reports to Date

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with Adjusted Net Profit of $25.3 Million; Achieving its 4th Consecutive Year of Solid Earnings

HONG KONG, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Sisram Medical Ltd ("Sisram Med" or the "Company"; stock code: 1696.HK), a leading global provider of energy-based medical aesthetic treatment systems, today announced its audited consolidated annual results for the 12 months ended 31th December 2017 ("the year").

2017 was a pivotal year in the Company's history. Sisram Med became a publicly-traded company in September 2017 and is the first Israeli company to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Main Board. The Company accelerated its transformation into a higher-margin business focused on value-creating, obtaining the best results in the history of the company while achieving a 16% revenue increase YOY with sales volume of $136.9 million in 2017 and adjusted net profit of $25.3 million.

Sisram Med experienced global growth of 21% in YOY revenues for its minimally-invasive platforms - 128% YOY growth in China, and over 150% YOY growth in India for this product line. During the year, the Company had significant collaboration with tier-one aesthetic firms in APAC, sustaining the leading position in the region and resulting in 27% YOY growth comprised of 121% YOY revenue growth in Hong-Kong and 38% revenue growth from the Indian subsidiary. In North America, the Company achieved revenue growth of 8% YOY and significantly expanded its North American salesforce and product offerings during the latter part of the year. EMEA revenues increased 13% YOY, primarily as a result of strong revenue growth in Poland, Spain, and the UK as well as from the DACH subsidiary, each of which maintained significant YOY revenue growth of at least 20%.

A significant portion of the Company's overall financial results can be attributed to its research and development efforts. R&D investment got big increase, as it continues to focus on new and innovative product offerings. Sisram Med is amongst the few companies to preform in-house organic research, development and manufacturing of multiple energy-based technologies including Laser, Radio Frequency, Light, Ultrasound and Plasma. This unique competitive edge enables the Company to quickly introduce wide variety of products, including both stand-alone and combined technologies to the market. In 2017, Sisram Med has allocated significant research, development and clinical efforts toward developing and testing new minimally-invasive treatments for surgical indications that the Company intends to launch in 2018.

In 2017, Sisram Med implemented a soft launch of Alma Smart Clinic, an Internet of Things ("IoT") platform, which is a cloud-based data center and remote-control service. In addition, the Company planned and executed a Direct to Customer ("DTC") strategy focused on strengthening its digital marketing tools and building a new distribution model. The goal of this strategy is to build bottom-up demand and strengthen brand awareness.

Mr. Yi Liu, Chairman and Executive Director of Sisram Medical Ltd, said, "Considering our accomplishments in 2017, our robust balance sheet, strong financial capability, solid funding channels and flexibility to fund our investments and operational commitments, I believe we are at an excellent position from which to continue our journey forward. Looking into the year of 2018, Sisram Med will continue to extend and deepen its value proposition, adhering its philosophy of 'Enhancing Quality of Life', delivering business results in the present, while creating value and opportunities for the future benefit of our shareholders, customers, suppliers and partners."

About Sisram Medical Ltd
Sisram Medical Ltd (1696.HK), the first Israeli company to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Main Board, is an investment holding company specializing in medical technology for healthcare. Sisram Medical incorporated in 2013 in Israel, is a non-wholly owned subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, a leading healthcare group in China. The Company has also been the largest provider of energy-based medical aesthetic treatment systems in the PRC market and one of the leaders in the medical aesthetic treatment system market globally, in terms of revenue in 2016, according to the Medical Insight Report.

Sisram Medical - Enhancing Quality of Life.



 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Mitsubishi Motors Delivers Fleet of EV and PHEV Vehicles to Costa Rican Government

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Delivery forms part of a drive to support Costa Rica's emergence as a world leading low-carbon economy

TOKYO, Mar 21, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has today announced a fleet of MMC's EV and PHEV vehicles has been delivered from Japanese Government to the Costa Rican Government.

The delivery will involve the transfer of 20 units of the Outlander PHEV, the world's best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV together with an additional 29 units of the i-MiEV, the first mass produced EV vehicle.

The initiative forms part of the Overseas Development Agreement between the Japanese and Costa Rican Governments, through which Japan has committed to provide a range of next generation vehicles to the Central American nation.

The vehicles being delivered as part of this initiative will directly support the Costa Rican Government's ongoing efforts to promote greater environmental sustainability and achieve its own goals to lower carbon emissions.

Promoting the usage of clean energy and delivering a carbon neutral society, have been long standing objectives for Costa Rican policy makers, reflecting Costa Rica's traditional cultural commitment to "Pura Vida" or "pure life".

In 2015, Costa Rica announced that it would seek to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 25% from 2012 to 2030, and today is one of only 5 countries whose national climate commitments are rated 'sufficient' by the international Climate Action Tracker (CAT).

Costa Rica has continued with its efforts to become one of the world's greenest nations, revealing in November 2017 that it had broken the world record for the most consecutive days running on renewable energy.

The Costa Rican Government has also announced that it is considering the introduction of 100,000 new electric vehicles and the Costa Rican Legislative Assembly recently debated the introduction of new legislation to massively expand the nation's EV infrastructure.

Today's vehicle delivery is expected, not only to make a direct contribution to the development of Costa Rica's low-carbon economy, but also to help raise awareness of next generation vehicles, driving demand and promoting the adoption of advanced Japanese environmental technologies.
The vehicles being delivered today will be utilized by 15 different government agencies and universities, supporting the Costa Rican Government's efforts to promote eco-friendly mobility.

The delivery was announced in a ceremony at the Presidential House in the Costa Rican capital, San Jose. This event was attended by Costa Rica's President Luis Guillermo Solis and other government officials, the Japanese Ambassador to Costa Rica, Yoshiaki Ito, representatives of Veinsa, MMC's distributor in Costa Rica and trading company Itochu.

Commenting on the supply of the cutting-edge EV and PHEV vehicles Osamu Masuko, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, said:

"We are very pleased to be able to support the Costa Rican government's efforts to embrace cleaner automotive technologies. We hope these vehicles will contribute to support Costa Rica's transition to a low carbon, sustainable economy."

About Mitsubishi Motors in Costa Rica

Veinsa Motors is Mitsubishi Motors' distributor in Costa Rica; and has been in charge of brand positioning and sales successfully for more than 40 years.

Mitsubishi Motors is very proud to be represented by a well-known company with a large trajectory in the automotive industry, whose environmental efforts in order to contribute with the country's sustainability and carbon neutral goal through ecological and responsibility policies, has been recognized with several awards among which we can mention:

- PBAE 2015 Climate Change Category by the Ecological Blue Flag Program Commission
- Recognition in Cleanest Production by the Environmental Acknowledgement System (SIREA)
- Accomplishing the Carbon Neutral Program by the Ministry of Environment and Energy through the Climate Change Management

About Mitsubishi Motors

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

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

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Toyota: Born to be Tough! 50 Years of Working to Be a Reliable Partner

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Toyota Hilux
Opening of a Special Website to Mark the 50th Anniversary of the Hilux

Toyota City, Japan, Mar 21, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Conceived by Toyota as a joint successor model integrating the Briska with the Light Stout, the Hilux debuted in March 1968 as a new bonnet-type truck with Hino Motors, Ltd., in charge of development and production.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaHiLux..jpg
Toyota Hilux

The Hilux has its roots in the truck format, and the starting point of its development to date has been an emphasis on its toughness as a workhorse whose practical utility makes it ideally suited as a commercial vehicle.

However harsh the road conditions you encounter, you can always be sure of getting there with the Hilux, whose mission is to protect human life and support human livelihoods

'The Hilux is a vital partner for me'. Its owner smiles and pats the Hilux body almost as if he were patting a workmate on the shoulder. When you work with it, it becomes part of your life. A partner to rely on--that's the kind of vehicle we want the Hilux to be.

Aiming for reliability, durability, and strong performance in tough road conditions, we put our test vehicles through round after round of 'breakdown testing' to trial them to the edge of destruction. The volcanic wilderness of Iceland is one of the places where they have proved their toughness.

It's got to look good! Adaptable to leisure, motor sports, or just looking cool, versatility with a tough center is the beauty of the Hilux.

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

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Wintermar Offshore (WINS:JK) Reports FY2017 Results

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JAKARTA, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Wintermar Offshore Marine (WINS:JK) has reported results for the 2017 financial year. WINS Gross Profit for 4Q2017 has risen by 26% QOQ to US$2.0 million as utilization averaged 69% for the quarter, lifting revenue by 10% QOQ to US$18.0 million for the final quarter of the year.

Better revenue in 4Q2017 from higher fleet utilization resulted in Gross Profit of US$2.0 million booked for the last quarter of 2017. The full year 2017 gross profit of US$2.5 million shows a clear turnaround from the losses recorded in 1H 2017.

2017 was the third year of a very difficult down-cycle in the oil and gas industry, and our fleet utilisation reached its lowest point in the second quarter of 2017 before seeing a recovery. However, many of our pre-crisis contracts had already been completed by 2017, and replaced by new contracts won in 2017 at charter rates which were significantly lower due to market conditions at the time. Therefore, although the quarterly trend for 2017 has shown a significant pick up in utilization in the second half of the year, revenue for the full year 2017 was lower by 30%YOY at US$62.0 million as compared to FY2016.

Owned Vessels Division

Owned Vessels utilization averaged 69% for the 4th Quarter 2017 as more vessels were mobilized on new projects while some existing contracts were extended. This compares with 3Q2017 average utilisation of 66%.

Notably, in the second half of the year, our high tier vessels saw a recovery in utilization as we took on a seismic project in Eastern Indonesia and supported a drilling project in Papua New Guinea, both of which involved multiple vessels.

Revenue from this Division rose to US$14.2 million, +6% QOQ compared to US$13.4 million in the previous quarter, and 21% higher than revenue of US$11.7 million recorded in the 4th Quarter the previous year.

For the full year 2017, revenue from Owned Vessels reached US$48.0 million, which was 19% lower than US$58.9 million booked in FY2016. Direct expenses fell slightly by 5% to US$47.5 million from US$50.3 million the previous year, reflecting generally lower crewing and operational expenses and higher maintenance expenses. Because of mobilization and startup costs, there were heavy one off maintenance and crewing expenses which were booked in 4Q2017 as vessels had to be modified, overhauled and equipped with more spares prior to commencing longer contracts according to clients' requirements. However, with the better utilization, the Division turned around from a gross loss in the first half of the year to record a marginal gross profit of US$0.43 million for FY2017.

Chartering and Others

The Chartering Division is seeing a slower recovery than our Owned Vessels Division, as the priority has been to increase Owned Vessel utilization. Total Chartering revenue for FY2017 fell by 65% to US$9.3 million, while gross profit fell to US$0.8 million compared to US$3.7 million the previous year. As the industry conditions improve, we are confident to improve the performance of this Division in the coming year.

Additional projects bringing in fee income, including the ship management of a seismic vessel and the provision of additional value added services for our clients, contributed to an increase revenue from other services compare with 2016. For FY2017, Total revenue from Other Services was US$4.7 million, +18% YOY from US$4 million in FY2016. Total Gross Profit amounted to US$1.2 million.

Indirect Expenses and Operating Loss

For FY2017, total Indirect Expenses fell 12% to US$7.7 million as compared to US$ 8.7 million in the previous year. The largest indirect cost, Staff salaries, fell by 15% to US$4.6 million from US$5.3 million, as we sought to maintain a smaller workforce through the industry downturn without having to resort to retrenchments.

For the full year 2017, we recorded an operating loss of US$5.2 million compared to an operating profit of US$4.9 million in the previous year.

Other income and expense

Owing to lower charter rates in 2017 compared to 2016, there was an impairment charge on the value of our fleet in the amount of US$20.0 million compared to an impairment of US$14.3 million the previous financial year. This impairment was taken as the calculation of the fleet is considered on a Fair Value in Use basis. Since we believe charter rates are already at historically low levels, we do not expect further deterioration in charter rates in the coming year.

Our Associated Company also booked an asset impairment during the year, which led to a loss of US$3.2 million in equity in associates for FY2017 compared to a small loss of US$0.08 million in the previous financial year.

The total impact of these adjustments resulted in a net loss before tax of US$38.87 million for FY2017.

EBITDA, Interest expenses and Debt

EBITDA for FY2017 was US$22.3 million, a decline of 32% from US$33 million the previous year, largely due to lower revenues for the year.

Interest expenses were lower at US$7.6 million (-7%YOY) from the repayment of US$19.1 million of Long term bank debt, while total debt repayment of US$26.2 million during the year brought our total interest bearing debt down to US$107.4 million, resulting in our net gearing ratio staying at a conservative 50%.

Net Loss Attributable to Shareholders

For the Full Year 2017, the total net loss attributable to shareholders amounted to US$27.1 million.

Many of the vessels impaired were the newer and higher value vessels which are held in Joint Venture subsidiaries, where Wintermar owns 51%, therefore, the loss attributable to non controlling interest was significant at US$12.8 million.

Industry Outlook

In 2017 the realization that oil prices had bottomed led to a recovery in drilling activity and there were several projects in Indonesia which restarted again. Several large projects in Tangguh, Madura, Djangkrik, together with a jump in Pertamina Hulu Energi's (PHE) drilling program in 2018 provide a basis for more optimism in the oil services sector for the coming year.

Globally, the oil price outlook for 2018 remains robust. Supply is constrained by OPEC's extension of supply cuts until end 2018, generally lower crude oil inventories in the US and a disruption in Venezuelan output due to political issues. Global oil and gas demand however, continues to be buoyed by stronger economic growth, especially in non OECD countries.

Although the US Energy Information Administration is projecting record production of US Shale oil this year, the high capital investment may be a constraint.

In Indonesia, upstream oil and gas capital expenditure for 2018 is targeted at US$17.04 billion compared to a realized expenditure of only US$9.3 billion in 2017, with the government's upstream vehicle, Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) driving a lot of the investment.

Strategy

With business activity on the upturn for a few months, there is a huge need to invest in personnel and systems to ensure a high quality of service for our clients. Our innovative marketing efforts have also enabled us to embark on new areas of services like air diving, pipe tailing and subsea pipeline inspection work.

After maintaining a very lean operation for the past three years, management will start to invest in building a robust organization to manage growth with efficiency. Apart from attracting and retaining high quality personnel, management plans to harness better IT systems to manage our vessels more effectively.

In early February 2018, the Company has issued 200 million non pre-emptive shares, raising US$4.9 million as part of the issuance approved at our 2017 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The purpose of the fund raising was to provide working capital to facilitate the startup costs of redeploying our vessels to work, while also strengthening our capital structure to prepare for better times.

As fleet utilization is rising, charter rates are unlikely to fall further from this point. However, until the industry as a whole sees a more sustained pick up in contracts awarded, we are not factoring in any rate rises for the rest of the year.

Our marketing strategy has been to expand our range of services provided and to increase the value add to the end client. In a consortium with two other specialist companies, Wintermar is embarking on the Group's first Air Diving project in the form of a 3 year contract to provide offshore inspection, repair and Maintenance services to a major Indonesian oil and gas producer utilizing our DP2 vessel which has been specially modified for the purpose.

Total contracts on hand as at end February 2018 were US$95 million.

About Wintermar Offshore Marine Group

Wintermar Offshore Marine Group (WINS.JK), developed over 40 years with a track record of quality is both a source of pride and a responsibility that we are dedicated to upholding, sails a fleet of more than 70 Offshore Support Vessels ready for long term as well as spot charters, all operated by experienced Indonesian crew and tracked by satellite systems and monitored in real time by shore based Vessel Teams.

In 2011, Wintermar became the first shipping company in Indonesia to be certified with an Integrated Management System by Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, comprising ISO 9001:2008 (Quality), ISO14001:2004 (Environment) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Occupational Health and Safety). For more information, please visit www.wintermar.com.

Contact:
Ms. Pek Swan Layanto, CFA Investor Relations PT Wintermar Offshore Marine Tbk Tel: +62-21 530 5201 Ext 401 Email: investor_relations@wintermar.com

Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Chememan (SET:CMAN) Begins on Thai Exchange

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- Joint Ventures with Partners to Build Two Lime Plants in India
- Aims to Become One of the World's Top 10 Leaders of the Industry

BANGKOK, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Chememan PLC, Thailand's largest lime and derivatives chemical producer and distributor, began trading today on the Stock Exchange of Thailand as CMAN (SET:CMAN). The company highlights its vision to become one of the world's leading producers of lime and lime derivative chemical products by expanding production capacity to one million tonnes per year by 2020, and is committed to expanding the lime market overseas and increasing its client base in 10 industries in over 20 countries worldwide.

Mr. Adisak Lowjun, Chief Executive Officer of CMAN, is confident of a strong reaction from investors. Judging from response to the company's Initial Public Offering (IPO), investors have shown that they believe in the potentials of Chememan. The company stands ready to step up as one of the world's top 10 leading producers of lime and lime derivative chemical products according to the vision set out for the company. It is expanding its production capacity to meet the demand for lime which has been continuously increasing and also to boost the company's competitive edge at the global level.

Chememan is currently pursuing joint ventures with two local partners in India to build two lime plants - one in Visakhapatam and another in Tuticorin - which are key ports and industrial zones of India. The plants will produce and distribute lime and mineral limestone products in India which is a market with high growth potentials. It is expected that the two plants will begin commercial operation in 2019 and will increase Chememan's combined total production from 900,000 tonnes per year at present to one million tonnes per year by next year.

The company is convinced it has the capability to become the leading producer of lime and lime derivative chemical products in Asia since it is already the largest producer and distributor in Thailand. Chememan is also the only lime business operator in the country to have both production plants and a 25-year concession (ending 23 June 2040) from the state to mine Ultra-high Calcium Limestone. This will benefit quality control and security of raw materials as well as provides good opportunities for growth and market expansion domestically and internationally in the future.

"We see the opportunity for growth in the lime market from the demand for our products both here and overseas. Our products are used in the production processes of a great variety of industries such as pulp and paper, sugar, bioplastic, construction, construction materials, and steel industries. Therefore, we adopted the strategy to expand both the domestic and foreign markets. The oversea markets are our key targets to generate revenue and to capture market share in the future from our current client base in more than 20 countries worldwide," Mr Adisak said.

Mr. Paiboon Nalinthrangkurn, Chief Executive Officer of TISCO Securities Ltd., in his capacity as underwriter, said Chememan has good business fundamentals and competitive potentials as well as production plants and mining concession from the state. This provides good security for production and source of raw materials. Additionally, it is also the largest lime producer and distributor in Thailand and is the leading producer of lime and lime derivative chemical products in the Asia region. The company distributes products to many industries both domestically and internationally which gives it good risk distribution in terms of markets.

"I believe that Chememan shares will capture the interest of investors because lime products have a wide client base and can be used in the production processes of a variety of goods. At the same time the company has a team that is knowledgeable and understands the lime industry well. It has continuously researched and developed products and expanded foreign investment which will give it good prospects for increasing market shares both domestically and abroad," Mr Paiboon said.

Released for Chememan PLC by MT Multimedia Ltd.
Ms Orn-anong Pattaravechakul (Fah)
Tel: +66 2612 2081 ext 129 or +66 8 6884 4458
E-mail : ornanong.p@mtmultimedia.com

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Inaugural MarketingPulse Opens at HKCEC

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Raymond Yip, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, says Hong Kong marketers are instrumental to Hong Kong earning its reputation as "Asia's trendsetter"
Sara Riis-Carstensen (2nd L), Head of Global Branding of De Beers, Kei Suzuki (1st R), Director of Ryohin Keikaku Co, Ltd (MUJI), and Uri Minkoff (2nd R), CEO and Co-founder of Rebecca Minkoff, examine the "Recipe for a Winning Brand" at the opening plenary session
Nearly 20 companies engaged in new media advertising and marketing, content marketing, search engine optimisation, data-driven marketing solutions, customer service platforms and AI platforms showcase innovative marketing strategies, technologies and solutions at the Exhibition Zone during Marketing Pulse
Featuring 40+ Brand Owners, Industry Leaders and Creative Gurus

HONG KONG, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - MarketingPulse, a regional premium conference for marketers and brands organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. More than 40 experts in brand management, marketing and advertising from nine countries and regions are taking part in the inaugural event, offering insights, success stories and best practices with corporate executives, marketing and advertising agency representatives and brand representatives.

Raymond Yip, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC said marketers contribute to Hong Kong's reputation as Asia's trendsetter and hub for international brands. "The city's stylish reputation is in part the result of creative marketers accentuating Hong Kong's distinctive charisma," he said. "Hong Kong's marketers are adept at tapping the city's East-meets-West characteristics, leveraging the latest marketing technologies, and creating compelling marketing campaigns."

Philip Yung, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Commerce, Industry and Tourism) of the HKSAR Government, delivered the opening remarks followed by the plenary session "Recipe for a Winning Brand," featuring Sara Riis-Carstensen, Head of Global Branding, De Beers; Kei Suzuki, Director, Ryohin Keikaku Co, Ltd (MUJI); and Uri Minkoff, CEO and co-founder, of Rebecca Minkoff.

Prior to joining De Beers, Ms Riis-Carstensen was LEGO's Director of Global Brand Development, where she led LEGO collaborations with such brands as Star Wars and Batman, helping to turn the educational brand into a much-loved companion for children.

Mr Suzuki has decades of experience in Japanese retail, including more than 20 years with Ryohin Keikaku. Adhering to the minimalist Japanese culture, Mr Suzuki has transformed Muji from a household products company into a brand that epitomises the minimalist lifestyle. He has also expanded MUJI's business portfolio into catering and hotels.

Launching the fashion accessories brand, Rebecca Minkoff in 2005, Mr Minkoff and his sister have transformed the label into one of the fastest-rising global fashion brands in recent years. Mr Minkoff specialises in using new technology to provide an omni-channel customer experience, and is seen as the most forward-looking CEO in the fashion industry.

Smart use of new media and new technology

In another plenary session spotlighting social media marketing, the panel featured Maya Hari, Vice President, Asia Pacific, Twitter; and Assaf Tarnopolsky, Director of Marketing Solutions, South East Asia, North Asia & Japan, LinkedIn, to explain the ins and outs of social media marketing and to offer practical strategies. The session also featured Evan Greene, Chief Marketing Officer, The Recording Academy (The GRAMMYs); Beverly W Jackson, VP of Social Portfolio Strategy, MGM Resorts International; and JiPeng Men, Vice President and Head of Marketing Division, JD.com. The speakers discussed how brands can leverage social media to complement their overall brand marketing strategies and to stand out in information-saturated social media platforms.

The third plenary session gathered several legendary advertising figures, including Joshua Grossberg, Group Creative Director, McCann New York; Peter Lefebvre, Creative Director, Leo Burnett; Kazuhiro Shimura, Creative Director, Dentsu Inc; and Spencer Wong, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer, McCann & Spencer, to share their creative journeys and the ways to address the taste and changing habits of the media and different audiences. They also explored using technology to target customers and bolster brand image.

Uncovering market growth drivers and opportunities

The afternoon breakout sessions covered a host of marketing subjects that targetted the different backgrounds, interests and business needs of the participants. At the "The Fine Art of Customer Engagement in Asia" session, moderator Dr Royce Yuen, co-founder and CEO of MaLogic Holdings Ltd, spoke with Gunyarak Piyakhun, First Executive Vice President (Marketing Strategy & Business Intelligence) of renowned Thai retailer, Siam Piwat Company Ltd; Erwan Heussaff, founder of The Fat Kid Inside Inc, an F&B key opinion leader (KOL) with more than 2.7 million online followers; Jennie So, General Manager, International of SINA Corp & Weibo Corp; and Kosuke Sogo, CEO and co-founder of AnyMind Group. The panellists examined brand promotion strategies from the perspectives of brands, KOLs and media and marketing consultants.

At another session, entitled "On the Pulse of the Cool New China," three Chinese mainland marketing veterans - Viveca Chan, Chairman and CEO of WE Marketing Group; Mia Chen, Head of Marketing of Airbnb China, Chihkai Huang, Brand Director of Pechoin and 3water Li, founder of W - examined mainland consumer behaviour, offering practical strategies to win over mainland online shoppers.

As consumers become immune to hard-sell advertising, content marketing has become an indispensable marketing tool for brand building. The breakout session, "Tell Me a Story... About Content Marketing," featured Sehgeun Choi, Senior Creative Director, INNORED; Tony Chow, Regional Director, Creative & Content Marketing, Asia Pacific, Marriott International; and Vincent Tsui, founder and CEO, Toast Communications Ltd. The speakers offered practical tips on using content marketing to attract customers without overshadowing the brand.

Other types of new technology, including big data and artificial intelligence (AI), are also disrupting the marketing ecosystem. At the breakout session co-organised with the IAB Hong Kong powered by HKDMA, the panellists takes "A Look at the Present and Future of Data-driven Marketing & Advertising," with several data analytics and digital experts from Asia Miles, Lotame, IPG Mediabrands APAC, Integral Ad Science and Rosewood Hotel Group showing how these tech tools can be used to augment marketing efforts.

Exchange to expand networks

In addition, MarketingPulse organised two "Dialogues with Creative Minds" sessions. "Dialogue with Women Marketers" featured Julieta Leong, Deputy Director-Marketing & Events (HK) of Lan Kwai Fong Group, Sara Riis-Carstensen, Head of Global Branding of De Beers, and Bonnie Chan Woo, CEO of Icicle Group Holdings Ltd, who shared how female marketers can leverage women's intuition to develop winning marketing strategies. The second session, "Branding and Marketing Tips for Start-ups," saw "brand doctor" Tommy Li, Creative Director of Tommy Li Design Workshop Ltd, and Billy Chung, Director of Business Development of GoAnimate, a one-stop online animation platform, explore ways for start-ups to raise their brand profile cost-effectively.

Nearly 20 companies engaged in new media advertising and marketing, content marketing, search engine optimisation, data-driven marketing solutions, customer service platforms and AI platforms showcased their innovative marketing strategies, technologies and solutions at the Exhibition Zone, highlighting Hong Kong's marketing prowess to global visitors.

An on-site business-matching service also offered one-on-one meetings for brands and exhibiting marketing agencies to explore collaboration opportunities, while various networking events allowed brand representatives and marketing companies to exchange intelligence and build networks.

MarketingPulse was organised with support and invaluable advice from leading marketing industry organisations, including the Council of Public Relations Firms of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Association of Interactive Marketing, the HKMA Digital Marketing Community, IAB Hong Kong powered by HKDMA, The Association of Accredited Advertising Agencies of Hong Kong and The Hong Kong Advertisers Association.

MarketingPulse website: http://www.marketingpulse.com.hk/
Photo download: http://bit.ly/2FZkBOC

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. Billy Ng Tel: +852 2584 4393, Email: billy.km.ng@hktdc.org

Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Kingsoft Announces 2017 Annual Results

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Flagship PC Game JX Online III Achieves Strong Revenue Growth for 8 Consecutive Years, up 32% Y.O.Y. in 2017;
Well-Performing Cores Buttress the Stride towards the 30th Anniversary

HONG KONG, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Kingsoft Corporation Limited ("Kingsoft" or the "Company"; HKEX stock code: 03888), a leading software and Internet service company based in China, has announced its audited 2017 annual results and its unaudited 2017 fourth quarter results for the period ended 31 December 2017.

For the year of 2017, the revenue of Kingsoft surged 35% year-over-year to RMB5,181.3 million. Revenue from the online games, cloud services, office software and services and others represented 60%, 26%, and 14%, respectively, of the total revenue. Gross profit increased 19% year-over-year to RMB 3,012.4 million. Profit attributable to owners of the parent was RMB 3,201.8 million, sharply improved from last year's loss of RMB270.7 million.

For the fourth quarter of 2017, revenue increased 7% year-over-year and 6% quarter-over-quarter to RMB1,380.5 million. Revenue from the online games, cloud services, office software and services and others represented 54%, 29%, and 17%, respectively, of the total revenue. Gross profit decreased 11% year-over-year and slightly increased 3% quarter-over-quarter to RMB768.7 million. Profit attributable to owners of the parent increased 847% year-over-year to RMB2,474.9 million.

Mr. Jun LEI, Chairman of Kingsoft, commented, "The year 2017 has marked a year of great achievements for Kingsoft. Our flagship PC game, JX Online III continued to outperform the market with revenue up 32% year-on-year. Kingsoft Cloud has further advanced its vertical businesses at a strong pace with total revenue increased by 81% year-on-year. The MAU of WPS office mobile version continued to grow and exceeded 145 million in December 2017. All these achievements have given us the strength and confidence to keep advancing in the online games, cloud services, and office software and service businesses in the future."

Mr. Tao ZOU, Chief Executive Officer of Kingsoft, added, "Kingsoft recorded stable and healthy growth in 2017. We made a total revenue of RMB5,181.3 million, up by 35% against the previous year. Our operating profit before share-based compensation costs increased by 7% year-on-year to RMB1,049.1 million. The fast development of all business segments in 2017 has set the stage for Kingsoft to grow its revenue notably and better capture the market potential in the coming years."

BUSINESS REVIEW

Online Games
For the year of 2017, revenue from the online game business increased 23% year-over-year to RMB3,120.2 million. The solid year-over-year increase was mainly due to the strong and sustainable growth of JX Online III, stable revenue contribution from JX Online I mobile game, as well as newly released mobile games in 2017. For the fourth quarter of 2017, the revenue decreased 8% year-over-year and increased 1% quarter-over-quarter to RMB751.4million. The slight year-over-year decrease reflected the mature life cycle of JX Online I mobile game, partially offset by the revenue growth of JX Online III with constant content and function upgrades.

In 2017, both Kingsoft's PC games and mobile games exhibited sparkling performance. Maintaining rapid growth for the 8th year in a row, the flagship PC game JX Online III has achieved a 32% year-on-year rise in revenue in 2017. Such outstanding performance ensured the successful launch of the JX Online III revamped version, laying a solid ground for the long-term development of the game. The quality upgrade and the brand new game features of the JX Online III revamped version have stolen the limelight. Within 24 hours of its launch on 29 December, the total number of users jumped by 43%.

The steady performance of JX Online I mobile game in 2017 created conditions for the enhancement and development of other upcoming JX mobile game products, helping maximize the IP value of JX Online in the mobile game sector. Together with Tencent, Kingsoft is going to launch three major JX series mobile games in 2018, including YSYY, JX Online II mobile and JX Online III mobile games.

In the fourth quarter of 2017, Kingsoft achieved a breakthrough in licensed mobile games. From the cooperation with NetDragon, the mobile game Eudemons Online was launched on all platforms on 18 October, and the gross billing exceeded RMB100 million within 19 days of launch. This well-known game IP once again gains widespread acclaim among mobile games players.

Cloud Services
The continuous robust growth of Kingsoft Cloud in 2017 made a remarkable achievement in revenue. For the year of 2017, the revenue from the cloud services increased 81% year-over-year to RMB1,332.5 million; for the fourth quarter of 2017, the revenue surged 57% year-over-year and 12% quarter-over-quarter to RMB401.9 million. The significant increase was mainly driven by robust growth in customer usage, especially from mobile video, mobile game and other internet sectors.

In addition to the outstanding financial performance, Kingsoft Cloud's performance has been highly acknowledged by the capital market. In early 2018, Kingsoft Cloud completed series D financing, which amounted to a total of USD720 million, with post money valuation reaching USD2.37 billion. According to IDC's China Semi-annual Public Cloud Services Tracker Report 1H2017 published in November 2017, Kingsoft Cloud was ranked top 3 in the IaaS public cloud service providers in China. Kingsoft Cloud's video cloud business achieved remarkable expansion by applying its video cloud technology and service advantages. Game cloud business reported solid growth in both customer usage and revenue with quantum leaps in multiple fields including CDN, hybrid cloud and network security. Government cloud and healthcare cloud businesses have progressed smoothly with their national footprints expanded during the year.

Kingsoft Cloud also expanded AI technology application in its product services and launched new video technologies, rendering video service quality improvement and cost saving for customers. In addition, Kingsoft Cloud was the first to obtain authentication of CSA-STAR Tech for both IaaS and PaaS in security enhancement, exemplifying Kingsoft Cloud's leading position in cloud security construction.

Office Software and Services and Others
For the year of 2017, the revenue from the office software and services and others increased 32% year-over-year to RMB728.6 million. Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2017 rose 4% year-over-year and 15% quarter-over-quarter to RMB227.2 million. The increases were mainly contributed by the increased sales of WPS online marketing services, value added services of the personal edition, and sustained revenue growth in sales of WPS Office.

WPS Office achieved stable and healthy development in 2017, and both online marketing and licensing businesses saw steady increases in revenue. Noteworthy here, Kingsoft launched "Light Office" for individual users, improving the office experience for them in all dimensions. In December 2017, the MAU of WPS Office mobile version exceeded 145 million while the MAU of WPS Office PC version also hit a new record, with the national MAU rose to above 100 million. WPS deeply rooted in office software industry and continued to optimize and develop new features aiming to provide users with better customized office experience. Thus, WPS was awarded the 2017 Xiaomi Emmy Award for the "Most Scalable APP" and the 2017 Next World Award for the "Most Popular Office Management APP for the Year" In the fourth quarter. In addition, through offering exclusive and high-quality contents, the number of premium members at the end of December nearly quadrupled comparing with that at the beginning of 2017. In May 2017, Beijing Kingsoft Office Software, Inc. has officially filed an application to the China Securities Regulatory Commission for an initial public offering (IPO) and listing on the ChiNext Board of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, and the application process has been well on track.

"The strong performance of all business segments in 2017 has boosted our confidence in the prospects for business development and revenue growth in the coming year. Looking ahead, we will continue to maximize the brand value of JX Online and focus on the upcoming launches of our major mobile game titles including YSYY, JX Online II mobile and JX Online III mobile games. Kingsoft Cloud will devote greater efforts into developing the AI field, consolidate our leading position in the Internet area, and further penetrate into more vertical industries and actively expand into overseas markets. We will continue to enhance WPS technology and product innovation incorporating AI features and cloud computing functions in order to provide better and more productive solutions for its users. Meanwhile, we will also set our eyes on global presence seeking to broaden our international reach by capitalizing on WPS' competitive edge in the mobile arena. We believe that we will maintain strong growth momentum and achieve more breakthroughs in 2018, and we will mark Kingsoft's 30th anniversary with a triumphant performance." concluded Mr. Jun LEI.

About Kingsoft Corporation Limited (Stock Code: 03888)
Kingsoft is a leading software and Internet services company based in China listed on the stock exchange of Hong Kong. It has three subsidiaries including Seasun, Kingsoft Cloud and Kingsoft Office. Following the implementation of its "mobile internet transformation" strategy, Kingsoft has completed the comprehensive transformation of its overall business and management models and formed a strategic platform with interactive entertainment and office software as the pillars and cloud computing as the new growth driver and source. The Company has over 5,000 staff around the world. It has set up R&D centers and offices in Beijing, Zhuhai, Chengdu, Dalian, Guangzhou and Hong Kong and enjoys a large market share in various countries and regions both home and abroad.

For more information, please visit www.kingsoft.com

For Press Enquiries:
Kingsoft Corporation Limited
Ms. Francie Lu
Tel:(86) 10 6292 7777 ext.5581
Email: ir@kingsoft.com

Strategic Financial Relations (China) Limited
Ms. Karen Li
Tel: (852) 2864 4837
Email: sprg-kingsoft@sprg.com.hk



 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Solargiga Announces 2017 Annual Results

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Returns to profitability with Profit attributable to equity shareholders of RMB107 million and Net asset value per share at RMB0.30 (approximately HKD0.37)

Hong Kong, PRC, Singapore and Taiwan, Mar 21, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - China's leading vertically integrated enterprise engaged in solar energy monocrystalline photovoltaic products, Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited ("Solargiga" or the "Company", and its subsidiaries, the "Group"; HKSE Stock Code: 757, Taiwan Depositary Receipts: 9157TT) has announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2017 (the "Year").

Significant business growth resulting in excellent financial results
During the year, an increase in external shipment volume led to significant growth in revenue that amounted to RMB3,999.6 million, up 32% from RMB3,021.0 million in 2016, thus continuing to maintain the trend of rapid growth.

During the Year, gross profit increased by 99.9% to RMB657.9 million, while gross profit margin rose strongly to 16.4%. The main reasons behind such increases include: (1) the Group's ability to seize opportunities brought by the rapidly increasing market share of monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic products in the end-user market by employing its vertical integration strategy of monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic products; (2) the completion of the transformation process and technology enhancement pertaining to upstream monocrystalline silicon ingot and monocrystalline silicon wafer production equipment resulting in improved production efficiency; and (3) the significant increase in external shipment volume of monocrystalline photovoltaic modules. With the huge jump in capacity utilisation, the Group's bargaining power has improved significantly and the Group has been able to enjoy the full benefit of economies of scale. (4) Furthermore, procurement contracts for high-priced raw materials, polysilicon, have largely been completed in 2016. The Group's bargaining power has therefore improved and unit purchase price has been lowered. Consequently, compared with an operating loss of RMB74.3 million in 2016, an operating profit of RMB251.6 million has been recorded for 2017. The Group has also recorded profit for the year of RMB123.8 million, thus officially achieving a turnaround. Net asset value per share rose to HKD0.37.

During the Year, the Group improved its efficiencies through transforming manufacturing capacity and technology enhancements. In addition, the Group successfully expanded the client base for its downstream module business. Consequently, external shipment volume has risen from 1,543.6MW in 2016 to 2,427.8MW in 2017, representing an increase of 57%, within which subcontracted processing volume increased from 484.4MW in 2016 to 695.2MW in 2017, representing an increase of 43%.

The external shipment volume of monocrystalline silicon ingots was 315.5MW, representing an increase of 34% when compared with 234.8MW in 2016. And the external shipment volume of monocrystalline silicon wafers was 822.3MW, representing an increase of 62% when compared with 508.6MW in 2016. Demand for and sales of photovoltaic modules grew significantly, with external shipment reaching 1,252MW, up 62% from 769MW in 2016.

The increase in external shipment was mainly the result of the successful development of the client base as reflected by the significant growth in both the number of customers and in the quantity of their purchases. The Group's major clients include large Chinese state-owned enterprises and Japanese multinational composite enterprises, such as State Power Investment Corporation, TW Solar Group, Motech Industries, Inc., CGN New Energy Holdings Co., Ltd., China Huadian Corporation, Beijing Enterprises Group Company Limited, SHARP Corporation and SANSHIN ELECTRONICS CO., LTD. etc.

Plans for capacity expansion
As mentioned in the announcement dated 25 September 2017, the Group will invest in a project located in Qujing City, Yunnan Province, China in two phases. Each phase will have a capacity of 600MW, with total capacity at 1.2GW. The first phase is expected to commence mass production by the end of the second quarter of 2018. Management believes that the manufacturing conditions satisfy the Group's requirements, including the availability of local raw material suppliers who can provide polysilicon required for the project, that will result in lower cost involved in raw material transportation. Also, water and electricity costs at the new plant are lower than at the Group's major production base, which will lower the manufacturing cost of silicon ingots and wafers. After careful assessment, management believes that Yunnan Qujing possesses the necessary attributes for manufacturing monocrystalline silicon ingots and wafers, and therefore selected it for expanding capacity. The Group expects the Qujing Project will become the new layout point of the Group, facilitating expansion of its customer base and further improvement in the Group's overall manufacturing costs. The benefit of lower overall cost of ingots and wafers will be enjoyed by its customers as the Group can provide customers with more competitively priced products, hence creating win-win situations.

As mentioned in the announcement dated 1 March 2018, the Group will also expand annual photovoltaic module production capacity by 1GW, and expects mass production to commence by the end of the second quarter of 2018. Subsequent to such expansion, i.e. the second half of 2018 onwards, the Group's monocrystalline silicon ingot and monocrystalline silicon wafer production capacity will reach 1.8GW while module production capacity will reach 2.2GW. Solar cell production capacity will however remain at 400MW. In maintaining its leading technological advantage in monocrystalline products, and adhering to the vertical integration strategy, the Group will benefit from advantages at both the upper and lower stream of monocrystalline silicon products production.

Vertical integration of upstream and downstream monocrystalline products mitigates market risks
Mr. Tan Wenhua, Chairman of Solargiga said, "Growing awareness of the benefits of high-conversion efficiency monocrystalline photovoltaic modules has led to stronger demand for modules and rapid market growth. As the Group specialises in monocrystalline photovoltaic products, and has its own in-house support for high-quality self-manufactured upstream monocrystalline silicon ingots and monocrystalline silicon wafers, demand for the Group's monocrystalline modules has increased annually. Correspondingly, the proportion of sales derived from the Group's monocrystalline modules has increased each year. This goes to show that the Group's adherence to its strategy of vertical integration of monocrystalline products was truly visionary.

"The Group will adhere to its strategy of vertical integration of upstream and downstream monocrystalline products. By satisfying external demand for its downstream monocrystalline modules, and boosting internal demand for its upstream monocrystalline silicon ingots/wafers, the Group will improve the overall gross profit margin of its self-manufactured monocrystalline module products and thereby strengthen its profitability.

"With regard to our capacity allocation strategy, we will direct investments towards manufacturing upstream monocrystalline silicon ingots/wafers and downstream modules, and plan to increase downstream module capacity slightly above upstream monocrystalline silicon ingot/wafer capacity. We will, however, maintain or only modestly increase the manufacturing capacity of solar cells. Through this capacity allocation strategy, the Group will be able to satisfy external demand for its downstream end-user modules, of which the Group has its largest manufacturing capacity, while boosting internal demand for its upstream self-manufactured silicon ingots/wafers. Furthermore, through the strategy of partly self-manufacturing and partly procuring externally mid-stream solar cells under the aforementioned strategy to drive the Group's overall capacity utilisation from bottom up, we will be able to better mitigate risks arising from fluctuations in sales of upstream silicon wafers or unstable supply of mid-stream solar cells. A perfect illustration of our strategy at work is the recent decline in wafer prices. By satisfying orders from downstream module customers with the Group's self-manufactured silicon wafers, we did not have to follow the market trend of slashing wafer prices. We consequently were able to effectively mitigate risks arising from market fluctuantuation, and protect the interests of all manufacturing segments of the Group."

About Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited (HKSE Stock Code: 757, Taiwan Depositary Receipts: 9157TT)
Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited is one of the leading manufacturers of solar energy monocrystalline photovoltaic products in the PRC. Through advantages in vertical integration, the Group focuses on manufacturing and selling monocrystalline solar energy silicon wafers and photovoltaic modules, and designing and installing photovoltaic systems. The Group sells the majority of its products to the China and Japan markets, the latter has strict quality requirements. The Group sells products directly to end-user customers. It drives demand for its upstream products by boosting its downstream business, and has coverage of the entire photovoltaic industry chain.

Issued by Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited

For further information, please contact:
Media enquiry:
Solargiga Energy Holdings Limited
Investor Relations Director
Mr. Yuen Kin Shan Tel: (852) 3416 2000 Email: info@solargiga.com

Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Angelus Lau Tel: (852) 2864 4805 Email: angelus.lau@sprg.com.hk
Fanny Yuen Tel: (852) 2864 4853 Email: fanny.yuen@sprg.com.hk




 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

CIMC Enric Revenue increased by 33.9% to RMB10,671 million for FY2017

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Profit from operations increased by 11.3% to RMB740 million

HONG KONG, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - CIMC Enric Holdings Limited ("CIMC Enric", or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") (Stock code: 03899.HK) announces its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2017.

Mr. Gao Xiang, the Chairman of CIMC Enric, said, "CIMC Enric experienced a crucial year in 2017 with a range of challenges facing the sectors it is engaged in. Compared to the Group recorded loss attributable to equity shareholders for the year of 2016, the Group reported the profit attributable to equity shareholders for the year of 2017. We strive to become a respected world-leading enterprise in the energy, chemical and liquid food industries."

Operational Performance
Gradual recovery of the international oil price and favourable policies announced by the PRC Government boosted the consumption of natural gas in China during 2017. This in turn caused the demand for natural gas equipment, especially LNG equipment, to increase during the year; thus, resulting in the surge of energy equipment and engineering segment's revenue during the year. The rise in demand for tank containers caused the chemical equipment segment to post an increase in revenue during the year. The liquid food equipment segment's revenue increased in 2017 partly due to inorganic growth resulting from the acquisition of Briggs Group Limited in June 2016 and partly from organic growth. As a result, the revenue for 2017 rose by 33.9% to RMB10,671,276,000 (2016: RMB7,968,403,000). The performance of each segment is discussed below:

During the year, the energy equipment and engineering segment's revenue rose by 53.0% to RMB4,958,683,000 (2016: RMB3,241,382,000). The increase in import of LNG substantially boosted the demand for LNG trailers. While the widening of the price differential between natural gas and oil, caused natural gas vehicle related products like on-vehicle LNG fuel tanks to record a robust rebound in demand during 2017. At the same time the expansion into marine LNG module business and LNG tank containers, as a new LNG storage and transportation medium, also contributed to the growth in natural gas equipment's revenue during the year. The segment remains the top grossing segment and accounted for 46.4% of the Group's total revenue (2016: 40.7%).

The chemical equipment segment's revenue increased by 22.4% to RMB3,026,389,000 (2016: RMB2,471,644,000) due to an increase in the sales volume of tank containers. The segment made up 28.4% of the Group's total revenue (2016: 31.0%).

The liquid food equipment segment's revenue posted a growth of 19.1% to RMB2,686,204,000 during the year (2016: RMB2,255,377,000) due to both inorganic growth from an acquisition in 2016 and organic growth of its original business. The segment accounted for 25.2% of the Group's total revenue (2016: 28.3%).

Dividends
A final dividend in respect of the year ended 31 December 2017 of HKD0.08 (equivalent to approximately RMB0.07) per share has been proposed by the Directors. No dividend in respect of the year ended 31 December 2016 was paid in 2017.

The Acquisition of SinoPacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd.
The Group purchased the major assets of SinoPacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. ("SOE") through acquiring the entire equity interest in SOE on 4 August 2017 and renamed it Nantong CIMC SinoPacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. on 15 August 2017. Based on the repayment capability analysis provided by the receiver, the recoverable amount of the Financial Assistance was estimated to be approximately RMB190,521,000. Therefore, the Group made an additional provision for impairment of RMB105,549,000 during the year.

Prospects
Since mid-2016, the recovery of global economy has been further strengthened. Approximately 120 economies (which accounted for 75% of the global GDP) reported faster year-on-year economic growth for 2017, which is a period of broadest global economic growth since 2010. This was underpinned by a notably higher global economic growth rate, ongoing improvements in the labour market, moderate increase in global consumer prices, rising bulk commodity prices, improved growth rates for international trade and so on. International Monetary Fund upped its 2017 global growth forecast to 3.7% in "World Economic Outlook", who believes the strong growth momentum is expected to sustain through 2018 and 2019, and revised the global growth rate upward to 3.9% for these two years accordingly.

The Chinese economy has been an instrumental force behind the robust global economic growth. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China's full-year GDP for 2017 amounted to RMB82,700 billion, representing an annual growth rate of 6.9%, which makes China a leader among the major economies. It is worth noting that China's economic development in 2017 was chiefly characterised by the gradual consolidation of its transition from high-speed to high-quality growth.

Under the favourable context of global economic recovery and high-quality economic growth in China, the Group would adhere to the philosophy of sustainable development of clean energy, green logistics and beautiful life. We would continue to pursue the vision of becoming "a respected world-leading enterprise in energy/chemical/food industries", to contribute to the healthy development of the global energy, chemical and liquid food industries, to contribute to a better living and to create value for the Company's stakeholders.

Energy equipment and engineering
During 2017, natural gas has grown into a hot topic, news about natural gas reforms, satellite supply stations, coal-to-gas conversion, pollution management, and also regional "gas shortage" in China have attracted many attentions. To some extent, the stable supply of natural gas has become one of the most important livelihood issues. Despite the ups and downs, China's natural gas market has gone through the stage of most rapid growth during 2017, whether in terms of market liberalisation or natural gas consumption.

Given the recovery of international oil price and the positive Chinese economy, a series of policies in favour of the development of natural-gas-related industry have been announced and implemented intensively, pushing China's natural gas consumption back on track to rapid growth. According to National Development and Reform Commission, China produced 148.7 billion cubic metres and imported 92.0 billion cubic metres of natural gas in 2017, representing year-on-year growth of 8.5% and 27.6%, respectively, while the volume of natural gas consumption increased to 237.3 billion cubic metres, with a year-on-year growth of 15.3%. Moreover, natural gas consumption is expected to maintain high growth in the long run, as BP Energy predicts that natural gas will overtake coal as the world's second largest energy source by 2035 and account for a larger share of primary energy. Therefore, we believe that the energy equipment and engineering segment is and will remain in a phase of rapid growth of the natural gas industry especially liquified natural gas.

In view of such favourable prospect, the Group's energy equipment and engineering segment will continue to pursue strategies such as internal optimisation, capacity consolidation and business collaboration, etc, as it strengthens and expands its existing capabilities in key equipment manufacturing, engineering services and solutions, to strategically covering the whole natural gas industry value chain, more particularly, to cover LNG marine applications such as the small-medium sized multi-gas carriers, LNG marine fuel tank series and offshore engineering/oil gas treatment module. In the meantime, the segment strives to develop other natural-gas-oriented business such as clean fuel storage and transportation equipment manufacturing, on-vehicle fuel tank manufacturing and the integrated solution for distributed energy application. The segment also actively explores other clean energy business opportunities in order to sustain a stable business development.

Chemical equipment
With advantages such as leak-proof, safety, eco-friendliness, recyclability, long service life, versatility with intermodal transportation for a diverse range of products and economic efficiency, tank container has been widely used in the European and American markets for years. Meanwhile, hazardous chemicals in China are transported via traditional modes with potential safety hazards such as tank trucks, drum barrels or bags, resulting in numerous serious accidents. Meanwhile, the Chinese government is applying more stringent requirements in the control of hazardous chemical transportation and, with the nation's standards gradually converging with international standards, the prospect of tank container usage in China is growing.

In May 2017, a full freight of liquefied chemicals was exported from Xinjiang to Europe via the "Xinjiang-Europe-Mediterranean" Sino-European rail freight service for the first time, using tank containers manufactured by the Group. The facilitation of liquefied chemical trading in tank containers between China and Europe, would promote the sharing of resources and the economic development of countries along the routes.

In the longer term, the global chemical industry is expected to sustain steady growth following the gradually stabilising global economy as well as developments of the emerging markets. The global investment in chemical products is expected to recover gradually. Tank container as a safe, economical, eco-friendly and digitalised means of logistics will be the future development trend. Moreover, the advance in science and technology will result in the development of new chemical products which in turn will raise the demand for tank containers.
In view of the above, the chemical equipment segment of the Group would be engaged in offering chemical logistic solutions, targeting one-stop service for clients, with an aim to cement its leading position in the global market. On one hand, the segment will enhance its production efficiency and general competitiveness through innovations in manufacturing technology, cost control and optimised production. On the other hand, it will also provide indepth after-sales services, while exploring new possibilities of the tank container business from internet-of-things (IOT) technology, helping clients to build digitalised operation system and improve their operating efficiency.

Liquid food equipment
Through the renowned brands of "Ziemann Holvrieka" and "Briggs", the Group possesses competitive strengths which are derived from its world-leading capabilities in design, manufacture and project engineering of breweries, brewery equipment and distilleries, proven business results and global brand influence. Meanwhile, the diverse geographic locations of production facilities in Europe and China have afforded a solid ability in global coordination over production, procurement, operation and regional marketing.

The acquisition of Briggs Group Limited in 2016, with headquarters located in the UK, strengthened the segment's process capabilities with extensive process design knowledge in breweries, pharmaceutics and distilleries. Integration of Briggs is an ongoing process and has proven to be successful, already resulting in projects with an extended scope in the distilling and pharmaceutical markets of North and South Americas.

The segment will continue to enhance the branding of "Ziemann Holvrieka" and "Briggs". Under the objective of a unified corporate image, the segment position itself as "engineers, enthusiasts, consultants and enablers" whose major capacity is to know customers business right down to the last detail. By acting and thinking sustainably, the segment will continue to implement marketing strategies to improve the market positioning as well as increase brand awareness and customer intimacy.

Mr. Gao Xiang concluded, "I would like to thank my fellow Directors for their contribution and all our staff for their dedication and hard work. On behalf of the Board and the management, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our shareholders, customers, suppliers and business partners for their continuing support. Looking ahead, the Group remains prudently optimistic about the outlook of the sectors it is engaged in. The Group firmly believes that the combination of the Group's key strategies and diversified business model will create sustainable and long-term value to shareholders."

CIMC Enric Holdings Limited
CIMC Enric is principally engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, engineering and sales of, and the provision of technical maintenance services for, a wide spectrum of transportation, storage and processing equipment that is widely used in the energy, chemical and liquid food industries.

Key products of each segment include: CNG seamless pressure cylinders, on-vehicle LNG fuel tanks, CNG and LNG trailers, LPG trailers and tanks and natural gas refueling station systems in the energy equipment segment;

Liquefied natural gas ("LNG") trailers and tanks, Natural gas refueling station systems, Compressed natural gas ("CNG") seamless pressure cylinders, CNG trailers, Liquefied petroleum gas ("LPG") trailers and tanks, Natural gas compressors, Project engineering services, e.g. LNG related projects, IMO Type C Tank, LNG, LPG and liquefied ethylene gas ("LEG") carriers and Marine oil and gas module; tank containers for chemical liquids, liquefied gas and cryogenic liquids in the chemical equipment segment; and stainless steel processing and storage tanks in the liquid food equipment segment, and project engineering services, e.g. turnkey projects for the processing and distribution of beer and fruit juice.

For Press Enquiry:
Tel: (852) 2528 9386
Fax: (852) 2865 9877
Email: ir@enric.com.hk
Website: www.enricgroup.com
IR portal : www.irasia.com/listco/hk/enric

The announcement of the annual results for the year ended 31 December 2017 is available at the Company's IR portal at www.irasia.com/listco/hk/enric.


 
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Ingredion Incorporated Declares Quarterly Dividend of $0.60 per Share

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WESTCHESTER, Ill., Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Today, the Board of Directors of Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE:INGR) declared a quarterly dividend of $0.60 per share on the Company's common stock. The dividend is payable on April 25, 2018, to stockholders of record at the close of business on April 2, 2018.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE:INGR) is a leading global ingredient solutions provider. We turn corn, tapioca, potatoes and other vegetables and fruits into value-added ingredients and biomaterial solutions for the food, beverage, paper and corrugating, brewing and other industries. Serving customers in over 100 countries, our ingredients make yogurts creamy, candy sweet, paper stronger and face creams silky. Visit Ingredion.com to learn more.

CONTACT:
Investors: Heather Kos, 708-551-2592
Media: Claire Regan, 708-551-2602

###

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

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

DFH Issues Positive Profit Alert; Expected a Up To 25% Surge in Net Profit for 2017

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HONG KONG, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Differ Group Holding Company Limited ("DFH" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group", Stock code: 6878) a leading provider of short to medium-term financing and financing-related solutions in the PRC, is pleased to announce positive profit alert for 2017 annual results.

Based on the preliminary review and analysis of the unaudited management accounts of the Group, the net profit is expected to increase by 18% to 25% year-on-year for the year ended 31 December 2017 (For the year ended 31 December 2016, the net profit and earnings per share of the company were approximately RMB$142 million and RMB 3.20 cents respectively). The Group believes that the significant growth in net profit is mainly attributable to the increase in the revenue generated from the assets management business and finance lease services, as well as the impairment loss reduction on finance lease, loan and account receivables during the year.

The Group will announce its 2017 annual results on 28 March and further share views on its business development and future plan.


 
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RCBC Bankard launches new Platinum card with JCB

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Manila, Philippines and Tokyo, Japan, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - JCB International Co., Ltd. (JCBI), the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., announced the launch and issuance this month of a new Platinum card by Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), one of the top universal banks in the Philippines, through its Card Servicing entity, RCBC Bankard Services Corporation (RCBC Bankard).

JCB Cards are currently issued in 23 countries and territories with over 110 million cardmembers around the globe. RCBC Bankard started issuing Classic and Gold JCB Cards in 1997. The launch of this latest product in the Platinum card market marks a milestone in the long-standing partnership between RCBC Bankard and JCB.

The RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum card is packed with prestige and privileges, providing its cardholders with world-class benefits, including free Airport Lounge Service, discounted car rental services worldwide, 24/7 Concierge Desk, and access to JCB Plaza Lounges located in major cities. In addition, they can also benefit from a generous rewards program with non-expiring rewards points, cash rebates, or airmiles. Cardholders also get to double their rewards even faster when they use their RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum card in Japan.

JCB provides various services to new RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum cardholders. In the Philippines, JCB has many privilege merchants for dining, hotel, wellness, and e-commerce.

"We would like to provide our premium clients with more options. The launch of the RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum card will definitely appeal to accomplished individuals who frequently travel abroad for both business and pleasure. Noting the increase in Filipinos visiting Japan and the issuance of multiple visa entry, we anticipate that our premium cardholders will be going to Japan more often. Hence, we doubled the points and airmiles that they can earn using the RCBC Bankard JCB Platinum card for spending made in Japan. The partnership with JCB enhances the privileges even more since they offer worldwide benefits to the JCB cardbase which our cardholders can take advantage of," states Simon Calasanz, President and CEO of RCBC Bankard.

For his part, Senior Vice President of JCBI Yuichiro Kadowaki, has expressed, "We are pleased that RCBC Bankard, an expanding credit company showing the strongest growth in the Philippines, has launched this new Platinum card. Our partnership has been strong for more than 20 years, and we are now stepping up to the next stage with the new product. Both of us are keen to provide a good product and services to customers of RCBC who are interested in Japanese culture and those who travel to Japan. Filipino tourists going to Japan exceeded 400,000 in 2017 and there will be more in 2018. We provide lounge services at 28 airports in Japan and 29 airport lounges in other countries, mainly in Asia. Other than this, Platinum JCB Cardmembers get exclusive access to Universal Studios Japan JCB Lounge. We hope RCBC Bankard customers will enjoy our services."

ABOUT RCBC BANKARD

RCBC Bankard Services Corporation (RBSC) is the Card Servicing entity of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC), one of the Philippines largest private universal banks. RCBC and RCBC Bankard Services Corporation are members of the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC). RCBC Bankard provides unique and world-class cashless transactions, versatile add-on services, and an innovative rewards program to its cardholders. For more information on RCBC Bankard, visit www.rcbcbankard.com

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/ or http://ph.jcb/

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

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

FOMM and Fujitsu in Alliance to Create a New Mobile Society

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TOKYO, Mar 22, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - FOMM Corporation, a specialist in mobility-related R&D to realize unique technologies, and Fujitsu Limited today announced their agreement to commence a partnership aimed at creating a new type of mobile society.

The two companies will develop and popularize new mobility infrastructure as an environment that provides the data and electrical energy sources needed to use electric vehicles (EV), and move forward on joint development. In order to build FOMM's Battery Cloud Service, which has functionality for integrally managing EV driving conditions, battery conditions, information on the vehicle user's battery usage, replacement battery inventory quantities, and other info, as well as for supporting operations, the two companies are applying Fujitsu Mobility Solution SPATIOWL, Fujitsu's location information utilization cloud service.

Electric vehicles have entered a period of practical usage globally, and are becoming increasingly diverse. It has become common for two- and three-wheeled EVs used for short distance travel, particularly electrically powered assisted bicycles, to use a small replaceable battery. By making it possible to run four-wheeled EVs with replaceable batteries, and by putting in place a new system in which individuals need not buy their own batteries but in which they can easily switch in new batteries anywhere and anytime, the partners will further grow and expand this market.

Through their partnership, FOMM and Fujitsu will utilize their experience and technology to develop Battery Cloud Service as new mobility infrastructure. This will enable vehicle users to charge their batteries at home as well as exchange them at service station, and because the service will give users a constant awareness of their remaining charge, charging or replacing batteries can be made efficient. Also, service providers will be able to grasp changes in battery characteristics by managing battery status records.

FOMM is equipping an ultra-compact four-wheel EV, developed in-house, with replaceable batteries and will support with its Battery Cloud Service. In December 2018, this "FOMM 1.0" will begin mass production in Thailand, in tandem with the launch of Battery Cloud Service operations.

Roles of the Two Companies

FOMM

1. Based on the Battery Cloud concept and plan FOMM has been working on since its founding in 2013, FOMM will not only realize the concept of an ultra-compact four passenger EV featuring a replaceable battery, leading to the provision of the actual service, it will also deploy the replaceable battery exchange stations that form the core of the service.

2. FOMM will plan and develop the battery exchange stand equipment and the building of the charging system, as well as the design and development needed to connect them to the cloud.

Fujitsu

1. Fujitsu will provide a cloud environment for managing batteries, incorporating into SPATIOWL technology that can track the charging, degradation, and deployment status of each individual battery, developed in a trial managing batteries for two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles(1), as well as incorporating the experience gained in that trial.

2. Using high-dimensional statistical analysis technology(2) through Fujitsu Human Centric AI Zinrai technology, Fujitsu will model the impact on the vehicle and the battery from both geographic features, such as slopes and curves, and from the traffic situation, including congestion, to provide advanced estimates of trends in energy consumption, battery operation, and degree of battery degradation.

Diagram of the Battery Cloud Service provided through the combination of the FOMM 1.0 and SPATIOWLDiagram of the Battery Cloud Service provided through the combination of the FOMM 1.0 and SPATIOWL

Future Plans

Through this partnership, the two companies plan to further develop and expand the mobility infrastructure they are aiming to create. In addition, they will be at the forefront of the creation of a new type of mobile society based on EVs, by analyzing and using the information gathered through Battery Cloud Service to create breakthrough services that support the popularization of EVs and increase user convenience. Moreover, the two companies will continue to advance as innovative companies by both expanding these efforts for mobile infrastructure around the world and by creating an ecosystem through connections with other industries.

(1) Trial managing batteries for two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles
Technology for managing batteries used in electric bicycles, evaluated in a trial conducted October 2013. Fujitsu and RESC Begin Collaboration to Build the Future of Electric Vehicles, Integrating ICT with Energy (Press release, October 3, 2013)
(2) High-dimensional statistical analysis technology
Proprietary analysis technology which uses AI Zinrai to automatically model the impact of various factors on specific events. Fujitsu Field Trials Ship Performance Estimation Technology with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Ube Shipping & Logistics (Press release, November 1, 2017)

About Fujitsu Ltd

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

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

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

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Toyota Introduces Premium Class in Car Rental Line of Business

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Toyota City, Japan, Mar 22, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announces the introduction of a new Premium Class car rental service offering Lexus models with an expected commencement of service on April 2 at Toyota Rent a Car locations in Japan.(1)

With the motor vehicle industry in a once-in-a-century transformational period, customer needs are extending beyond conventional vehicle ownership and into shared utilization. The number of operating vehicles in the total car rental market in Japan has grown rapidly from roughly 610,000 at the end of 2013 to approximately 800,000 by the end of 2017. Of these, the number of premium models (luxury vehicles) in operation has also increased at a rate surpassing that of market growth, from roughly 5,000 at the end of 2013 to approximately 9,000 by the end of 2017.

The new Premium Class has been introduced in response to such needs. In addition, the service was created for the expansion of opportunities for customers to experience the appeal of the Lexus brand through car rental.

The main models to be made available to customers to adapt to various user lifestyles include: LS, GS, and IS sedans; CT hatchback; and RX and NX SUV models.(2) In addition, models will be made available for rental according to two price ranges, namely, for the latest model (current generation) and for the model before the redesign (previous generation), to satisfy a broad range of customer needs.

Service will commence from Tokyo, as well as select regions(1), and will be expanded gradually nationwide.

Toyota Motor Corporation and Toyota Rent a Car locations offer the freedom and pleasure of mobility through a rental car service that is "safe, secure, comfortable, convenient, simple, and swift" with Toyota Rent a Car's extensive model lineup, its fleet of approximately 130,000 cars(3), and its network of roughly 1,200 locations nationwide(3) serving as the foundation.

How to use

Check the Premium Class page of the Toyota Rent a Car website (scheduled to go online on April 2) for locations that offer Premium Class before making your reservation by telephone. Online reservation is expected to become available in the future with expansion of the service.

Toyota Rent a Car website: https://rent.toyota.co.jp/eng/

Promotion: Premium Class Experience Campaign
- Get SuiRichAroma Essence Hand Cream! The hand cream will be gifted to customers who choose Premium Class service.
- Fill out the questionnaire! A gift catalog will be offered to winners selected by random drawing from among all customers who access the campaign website after completion of rental and fill out the Experience Campaign questionnaire form (in Japanese).
- Promotion period: April 2 to June 30, 2018

(1) Service is expected to commence at select locations in 14 prefectures starting April 2. Further details will be made available on the Premium Class page of the Toyota Rent a Car website.
(2) Available models may vary by shop.
(3) As of August 2017

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

Copyright 2018 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

The Executive Talk: JKN Global Media PCL (SET:JKN)

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BANGKOK, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - JKN Global Media PCL (SET:JKN) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jakkaphong Jakrajutatip discusses the company's strategy and outlook in The Executive Talk (TET) by ShareInvestor.com.

TET: Please explain the history of JKN.

I begun from humble beginnings as the family business was initially home video rentals. When I returned to Thailand in late 1999, the first step begun with the BBC Documentary Walking with Dinosaurs when we contacted BBC directly and was able to be the sole distributor in Thailand. However none of the local home video rental chains, nobody wanted to watch a documentary so I begun thinking outside of the box and contacted TV Direct to sell the videos through their home shopping network and we sold nearly 1 million copies. From this success I contacted National Geographic and the Discovery channel to bring their content to Thailand utilitising celebrity voiceovers, superstar marketing which was an entirely new concept in.

Following on from this, in 2005, I begun selling content to the media channels such as GMM Grammy, Mangpong, Tsutaya and so forth which led to the founder of GMM Grammy setting up a company together with me, which led to the incorporation of JKN. Over the years we continued expanding by bringing in the Japanese and Korea series, BBC, Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and Hollywood productions. Eventually with the launch of the digital TV stations GMM Grammy sold their stake in JKN to me in 2013 and then 2014 was a year of transformation for myself and for JKN as we continued to grow by acquiring more global content for Thailand and creating our own productions for Thailand and the world.

TET: What is JKN's business model?

As a leader in the global content distribution business we provide a various range of content that serves the demand of customers in all platforms. Many of the contents that we distribute are Output Deals, sole distributorship, and we can select contents from the content owners as first priority in certain cases and we also have the rights to cover content distribution in neighbouring countries such as Myanmar and Laos.

In addition to this we develop our own content as well, we created the signature project for Thailand, My King and My Queen for National Geographic because I believe that the pride of Thailand should be shared with the world land as we are a land of golden culture. We followed this with The People's King and The People's Queen, we were the first to create this Thai content on His Majesty the King Rama IX and Her Majesty the Queen.

TET: Why did JKN decide to become a publicly listed company?

We plan to operate CNBC Thailand's news TV stations and produce CNBC branded contents, which is licensed by NBC in the United States. The production line will be structured in the style of the CNBC brand and will use Thai emcees and moderators in the production of the programs to broadcast on JKN CNBC channel.

In addition to CNBC Thailand's news channel business and CNBC branded content production, we are also licensed to edit, translate, and dub in Thai the CNBC branded contents that are produced and broadcast internationally. We have already sold this to Channel 3 and Bright TV, and in the future, plan to distribute contents to other television operators and other platforms.

TET: How does technology impact your business?

This is one of the key important lessons from the history of JKN. In the past I was selling VDOs which then became VCDs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray, with the prices declining and risking holding a high amount of old technology inventory. It is because of this change that I realised that I am a Content Provider because technology keeps changing, the world keeps changing and we cannot stop nor change this, we have to adapt and do our business.

Regardless of the changes, content is required, people still have that inherent desire to watch stories, to learn about new experiences and changes, and to be entertained. So, when we look at cinemas, DVDs, digital devices, magazines, social platforms, mobile phones, TV channels and stations, these are all channels or devices that carry content to the consumer and instead of competing with the major players within each of these channels we should supply the content to them instead.

TET: How does JKN decide upon which content to distribute?

Deciding upon content is a skill inherent within myself and my team. Because of our years of experience, we understand what Thai audiences want to watch hence why JKN is the #1 content media provider in Thailand. They love their drama series, for movies action, adventure and horror, there is also a market for natural history and wildlife, travel and food as well if it's related to Thailand, to see the lifestyles of the wealthy and celebrities. But shows such as the Oscars, the Golden Globes, Downtown Abbey are not of interest here, so it is important to understand the culture and the mindset of the audience.

Internally we have a system for our next generation to be able to choose the what content to acquire and bring back to Thailand. At times the teams deciding will have to lower their tastes and at other times increase their tastes as we have to ensure that we select titles that suit the mass audience.

TET: What differentiates JKN from its competitors?

Remaining humble and continuing to learn, testing new practises, and thinking outside of the box are what separates us. Before moving on with new projects, we think, plan, understand and focus on ensuring that every form spending is done so wisely and provide us a form of a return today, in a year, or in a decade. Our aim is to continuously grow, we are not dealing in a single market that is Thailand but on a global scale, and that by finding the right product, the right content and the right partner we will be a success in building a global media content empire for the future.

TET: What are the biggest risks facing your business?

The key focus for us is to ensure that the team can achieve its potential and we have set up the necessary structure, processes, to ensure that it can be sustainable. The wonderful potential with our team is that we can unexpectedly find someone within the company, who may be younger, but are passionate, willing to learn and has a fire to succeed with us.

TET: Where do you see JKN in five years from now?

Our aim is to be the #1 Global Content firm in South East Asia and we are taking the right steps to ensure that this will happen such as with the recent launch of a Filipino drama show, the first of its kind in Thailand. We have a long-term vision and are focused on doing business for the coming decades. Culture is content, and content is in my DNA, its our company's expertise, and I genuinely believe that through persistent hard work and constant dedication that we are building the leading company for this in the region.

About The Executive Talk Interview Series

The Executive Talk Interview Series is presented by ShareInvestor, Asia's leading financial internet media and technology company, the largest investor relations network in the region. Please visit www.ShareInvestorThailand.com. For more information, email admin.th@shareinvestor.com.

 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

FILMART Draws 8,700+ International Buyers

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The 22nd edition of the Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART) draws to a successful close today after attracting more than 8,700 buyers during its four-day period, up nine per cent from last year.
The Doc World and the Global Filming Support zones debut this year to meet the diverse needs of industry players.
The thematic seminars feature an impressive line-up of heavyweights from the film, digital entertainment, animation and other sectors to share their insights.
World's Latest Film and TV Productions Showcased; Cross-media, Cross-sector Cooperation Fostered

HONG KONG, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The 22nd edition of Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), drew to a successful close today. The 4-day event attracted more than 8,700 buyers, up 9% from last year. More than 60 scheduled events, including professional seminars, new film launches and networking activities, were held to facilitate exchange and business matching.

Major film and TV production companies announced new projects on-site, including China 3D Digital Distribution Ltd, Emperor Motion Pictures, Mega-Vision Project Workshop, Mei Ah Entertainment, Sun Entertainment Culture and Television Broadcasts Ltd. There were also over 300 screenings, including more than 100 world, international or Asia premieres and numerous award-winning productions.

- International exhibitors win orders on-site

Silly Monks, a digital entertainment company from India, showcased a TV series titled "Chanakya" that drew the attention of buyers from around the world. By mid-morning on the second day of FILMART, the company had already secured a US$500,000 transaction on TV and Internet rights for Chinese territory. Silly Monks expected to sign further contacts with potential buyers from Korea, Japan and Southeast Asian countries.

TVP Polish Public Television, a repeat exhibitor from Poland, returned with the aim of further expanding into the Asia market. Company representative Aleksandra Kazmieruk said that the TV broadcaster, having sold 16 film productions and three TV series to TV stations from the Chinese mainland and Japan last year, achieved satisfactory results this year.

- Thematic seminars feature impressive line-up of industry heavyweights

FILMART's thematic seminars featured an impressive line-up of heavyweights from the film, digital entertainment, animation and other sectors. The 14 seminars organised by the HKTDC solely or in conjunction with other institutions attracted an attendance of more than 3,000.

Speakers included Kang Hye Jung, CEO of Filmmakers R&K and producer of Korean blockbuster film The Battleship Island; David Kosse, President, STXinternational, STX Entertainment and executive producer of Oscar-winning films The Theory of Everything and Room; Juno Mak, a renowned local director whose works included Sons of the Neon Nights and Rigor Mortis; Shuzo John Shiota, executive producer of animation series Transformers and Ajin: Demi-Human; as well as Michael Uslan, producer of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. A first-time FILMART participant, Mr Uslan believes that the event is an ideal platform for exchanges among industry players.

- The Battleship Island producer eyes cooperation with Hong Kong directors

During a Filmmaker Spotlight seminar, Ms Kang disclosed that she had discussed partnership opportunities with producers from Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. She added that she admires the works of Hong Kong and Chinese directors Johnnie To and Peter Chan and wishes to cooperate with them in future.

At another Filmmaker Spotlight session, David Kosse suggested that Arab countries, with their huge populations, could be the next big market that promises substantial growth. He noted that film producers are constantly exploring new audiences, and that with today's technology, films can be released and distributed through digital channels in addition to being shown on big screens. As such, Mr Kosse remarked, the market is no longer dominated by large-scale productions with big casts, but there is room for medium-scale productions. Social media platforms also allow quicker and lower-cost promotion of films, he said.

- Mainland TV/online video industry leaders examine latest developments

Opportunities abound in the mainland film and TV market, with IP dramas adapted from popular online novels, animations and even video games enjoying strong ratings on TV and online platforms. At a seminar titled "Navigating the Chinese TV Market", held on the first day of FILMART, representatives from leading mainland TV and online video platforms shared their insights on the latest developments. Catherine Liu, Associate General Manager of Entgroup Solution Centre, Beijing EntGroup Century DataTechnology, led off with an analysis of the current situation of the mainland TV sector. She said that the volume of mainland TV drama transactions has been growing in the last eight years. Ma Zhong-jun, Chairman/President of Ciwen Media Co Ltd, said that online content such as novels and articles has become an invaluable source of film and TV IP adaptations.

Documentaries were in focus at this year's FILMART, which featured more than 200 exhibitors related to this market segment, as well as a seminar with the theme "Documentaries: From Local to Global" (held on the second day, 20 March). Other seminars such as "Digital Entertainment Summit 2018" and "VR/AR: What Will This Change the Animation Industry" were also organised to provide the latest industry information.

FILMART: www.hkfilmart.com/filmart
Entertainment Expo: http://www.eexpohk.com
Photo Download: http://bit.ly/2FTr7KV

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. Banbi Chan Tel: +852 2584 4525, Email: banbi.yc.chen@hktdc.org Sunny Ng Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org

Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Jeju Shinhwa World Grand Opening of a World-class Integrated Leisure and Entertainment Resort in Jeju

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(from left) Mr Liu Zhifei, Mr Ko Choong-Hong, Mr Ahn Dong-Woo, Dr. Yang Zhihui, Mr Cho Jeong-Sik, Mr Lee Kwang-Hee and Mr Ahn Choong-Hwan officiated the grand opening ceremony
Korea, Mar 22, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Landing International Development Limited ("Landing International" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group", HKEX Code: 00582) is pleased to announce the grand opening of Jeju Shinhwa World which is developed and operated by the Group. This represents the first and only iconic world-class integrated leisure and entertainment resort in Jeju Island, Korea.

The grand opening ceremony of Jeju Shinhwa World was held earlier this morning at the Landing Convention Centre. The event was hosted by Dr Yang Zhihui, Chairman and Executive Director of Landing International. Also present at the ceremony were distinguished guests, including Mr Liu Zhifei, Deputy Consulate General of Consulate General of the Peoples Republic of China in Jeju; Mr Cho Jeong-Sik, Chairman of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea; Mr Ahn Dong-Woo, Vice Governor for Political Affairs of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province; Mr Ko Choong-Hong, Chairman of Jeju Special Self-Governing Provincial Council; and Mr Lee Kwang-Hee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Jeju Free International City Development Center, Mr. Ahn Choong-Hwan, Director General for Territorial Policy of Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport as well as Landing International's overseas business partners and friends.

Dr Yang Zhihui delivered a speech at the ceremony, during which he said, "This is a memorable milestone in the development of Jeju Shinhwa World. It represents the successful development of a world-class leisure and entertainment integrated resort on Jeju Island." He pledged to develop Jeju Shinhwa World into a world-class leisure and entertainment integrated resort that Jeju residents would be proud of, and to contribute to Jeju Island's economic development, particularly its tourism industry.

Known as "the most fabulous garden isle in South Korea" and rich in natural resources, Jeju Island attracts countless visitors every year from around the world. The island's tourism industry therefore possesses immense potential for development. Spanning a total area of 2.5 million square metres, Jeju Shinhwa World consists of luxury hotels, theme parks, facilities for catering, M.I.C.E (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Events), gaming and leisure activities. The resort provides one-stop services that cover tours for leisure or business to tours for couples and families, thus complementing the existing offerings from Jeju Island's tourism industry.

The world-class facilities at Jeju Shinhwa World have opened in phases since April 2017:
- In April 2017, Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World, the first world-class full-serviced resort condominium in Jeju was opened.
- In September 2017, Shinhwa Theme Park, in partnership with TUBAn Company Limited, a premier 3D animation company in South Korea, welcomed its first group of customers.
- In November 2017, Jeju Shinhwa World Landing Resort - the first own-brand hotel of Landing Group, Landing Convention Centre and YG Republique - a food and beverage and entertainment complex which is a collaboration between Jeju Shinhwa World and YG Entertainment was opened.
- In December 2017, Jeju Shinhwa World Marriott Resort and Shinhwa Shoppes were opened.
- On 25 February 2018, Jeju Shinhwa World Landing Casino conducted its grand opening.

Highly exceptional facilities are set for opening in the future, including:
- Shinhwa Waterpark, the only large-scale water park in Jeju, and Jeju Shinhwa World Shinhwa Resort are scheduled to commence operation in the summer of 2018.
- Jeju Shinhwa World Four Seasons Resort & Spa, a luxury hotel to be located in the heart of Jeju Shinhwa World, and Lionsgate Movie World, the first branded outdoor theme park based on world-famous movies, representing a collaboration between Jeju Shinhwa World and Lionsgate, are expected to be open in Jeju Shinhwa World in 2020.


 
Copyright 2018 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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