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Toyota to Commence Verification Testing with Toyota City for Road Maintenance Inspections Using Vehicle Data Obtained from Connected Cars

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Overview of Verification Testing
Supporting city administrative services

Toyota City, Japan, Jul 18, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), with Toyota City, is to start Japan's first verification testing for road maintenance inspections using vehicle data obtained from connected cars, beginning August 1.

The verification testing will enable assessment of whether the degree of road deterioration index values computed from the car's behavior data and actual road conditions are consistent, and validate these findings on more typical regional roads. Toyota also aims to further advance its technology toward supporting administrative services that implement road maintenance and inspection work in Toyota City more accurately and appropriately.

The roles of each party participating in the verification testing will be as follows:

- Toyota City

In addition to providing road surface information collected through routine inspections and road patrols, Toyota City will carry out discussions on the feasibility of applying this technology to road maintenance inspection work.

- Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota will extract vehicle data (traffic information probe data and vehicle behavior data) obtained by connected cars and perform big data analysis with its proprietary Mobility Service Platform (MSPF). While providing road deterioration information, Toyota will also analyze the data's correlation to actual conditions.

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaOverviewVerificationTesting.jpg
Overview of Verification Testing

Understanding road conditions ensures day-to-day convenience, as well as safety and security, for example, realizing preventative measures against accidents and the ability to secure evacuation routes in the event of a disaster.

Toyota currently offers a Passable Route Map that provides real-time information on safe routes during disasters in Japan using data analytics based on telematics-equipped vehicles. With the forthcoming verification testing, Toyota aims to continue developing technology that analyzes vehicle behavior information, to succeed in digitizing road surface deterioration and toward continuing development in practical uses of this technology.

Moving forward, Toyota will continue developing town and road technology using connected cars, to actively support the work of local governments.

(1) As of July 18 (according to Toyota Motor Corporation)

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

Eisai: Positive Topline Results Obtained from Large-Scale Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial of Anti-Obesity Agent BELVIQ

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- BELVIQ did not increase incidence of cardiovascular events in study of 12,000 obese and overweight patients
- Reduction in conversion to type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients without diabetes
- Improvement in multiple cardiovascular risk factors including blood pressure, lipids, blood glucose and renal function

TOKYO, Jul 18, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. has announced that it has obtained the topline results of the ongoing Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial (CAMELLIA-TIMI61) of lorcaserin hydrochloride (generic name, product name in the U.S.: BELVIQ, "BELVIQ") in 12,000 patients as a post-marketing clinical trial evaluating safety as the primary objective. BELVIQ was approved in the United States in June 2012 by the U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adult patients(1), and was launched in June 2013.

This study was conducted at over 400 sites in eight countries including the United States in collaboration with the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) Study Group, and is the largest cardiovascular outcome trial conducted to date for a weight loss medication. The study assessed the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: defined as cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction or non-fatal stroke) in overweight and obese adults with existing cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with cardiovascular risk factors who were administered BELVIQ 10 mg twice-daily.

From the results, CAMELLIA-TIMI 61 met its primary safety objective, finding that long-term treatment with BELVIQ does not increase incidence of MACE. With this result, BELVIQ is the first ever weight loss medication approved for chronic weight management to achieve this safety objective in a dedicated long-term cardiovascular outcome trial.

Since the study met the primary safety endpoint of MACE, the study also assessed whether or not BELVIQ reduced the incidence of MACE+ (consisting of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, hospitalization due to unstable angina, heart failure or coronary revascularization) compared to placebo as the primary efficacy endpoint. Although statistical superiority to placebo was not met, the results successfully confirmed statistical non-inferiority for BELVIQ.

On the other hand, CAMELLIA-TIMI 61 also assessed for effects of BELVIQ on multiple cardiovascular risk factors. On top of standard of care for cardiovascular risk management, treatment with BELVIQ resulted in significant improvements in a number of predefined secondary endpoints, including blood pressure, lipids, blood glucose and renal function, as well as a reduction in conversion to T2DM in patients without diabetes at baseline.

In additional subgroup analyses, on a background of lifestyle modification, it was observed that BELVIQ improved long-term weight loss compared to placebo, including in subpopulations with T2DM and obstructive sleep apnea.

The overall safety profile for BELVIQ in CAMELLIA-TIMI 61 was consistent with that of the approved label. Dizziness, urinary tract infection, and fatigue being the most commonly reported adverse events in CAMELLIA-TIMI 61.

"Obesity is a major problem globally and associated with risk for heart disease and other serious health conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea," said Lynn Kramer, M.D., Chief Clinical Officer and Chief Medical Officer, Neurology Business Group, Eisai. "The results for BELVIQ from this robust global study provide important information to physicians and patients, particularly those with cardiovascular and obesity-related complications."

"CAMELLIA-TIMI61 was a rigorous evaluation of the safety and efficacy of BELVIQ as a metabolic intervention on cardiovascular health in a high cardiovascular risk patient population," said Marc Sabatine, MD, MPH, Chairman, TIMI Study Group, Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We look forward to sharing the full results with the scientific community."

Detailed results of the analysis of the study will be presented on August 26 at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2018 held in Munich, Germany from August 25 to 29, and also on October 4 at the European Association for Study of Diabetes (EASD) Meeting held in Berlin, Germany from October 1 to 5.

With the results of this study, Eisai will have discussions with FDA including potential revision of the product label. By continuing to provide additional clinical and scientific information regarding BELVIQ, Eisai continues to make further contributions to address unmet medical needs and increase the benefits for patients and their families.

(1) Adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition

About lorcaserin hydrochloride (U.S. brand name: BELVIQ, once daily formulation U.S. brand name: BELVIQ XR)

Discovered and developed by Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc., lorcaserin is a novel chemical entity that is believed to decrease food consumption and promote satiety by selectively activating serotonin 2C receptors in the brain. Activation of these receptors may help a person eat less and feel full after eating smaller amounts of food. Lorcaserin was approved in June 2012 by the FDA as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adult patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition, and was launched in the United States under the brand name BELVIQ in June 2013 after receiving a final scheduling designation from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In addition, lorcaserin has been made available in South Korea via a third-party distributor from 2015. Lorcaserin was approved in Mexico in July 2016 and in Brazil in December 2016, with the same indication as for the United States.

Furthermore, BELVIQ XR, a once-daily formulation of lorcaserin aiming to increase convenience of administration for patients, was approved in the United States in July 2016.
In January 2017, Eisai acquired all of Arena's rights to develop and market BELVIQ.

The most common adverse reactions observed in multiple Phase III clinical studies on lorcaserin were headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth and constipation in patients without diabetes, and hypoglycemia, headache, back pain, cough and fatigue in patients with diabetes. For further information on lorcaserin in the United States, including Important Safety Information (ISI), please visit the BELVIQ product website (http://www.belviq.com).

About the Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial, CAMELLIA-TIMI61 Study

The CAMELLIA (Cardiovascular And Metabolic Effects of Lorcaserin In Overweight And Obese Patients) TIMI 61 study is the largest ongoing double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group Phase IIIB/IV study among weight loss medications. The primary safety objective was to evaluate the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction or stroke. If the primary safety objective was met, the efficacy objective was to evaluate the impact of lorcaserin on the incidence of MACE+, defined as MACE or hospitalization due to unstable angina or heart failure, or any coronary revascularization. Secondary objectives included evaluation for the potential to delay or prevent conversion to T2DM in patients with pre-diabetes or no diabetes at baseline and improvement of glycemic control in patients with T2DM.

About the TIMI Study Group

The TIMI Study Group is an Academic Research Organization based at Brigham and Women's Hospital that has been leading practice-changing cardiovascular clinical trials for 30 years.

About Eisai

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

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

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

Hitachi Rail Italy Signed a Contract Worth 87 Million Euros for further 12 Leonardo Trains for Milan Metro

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Milan, Italy, Jul 18, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Hitachi Rail Italy signed a contract worth 87 million euro for the supply of 12 Leonardo metro trains, destined for Milan Metro Line 2.

These units are in addition to the 60 trains already ordered by Azienda Trasporti Milanesi (ATM) as part of a framework agreement entered into in 2012

Like the trains already in service on Lines 1 and 2 of the Milan metro system, the new vehicles are based on state-of-the-art technology and safety standards. The metro trains are at forefront for passenger comfort, and have an innovative "open-space" design which provides passengers with an uninterrupted view from the end to the front of the train. The metro train is equipped with structures and bogies to ensure smooth running, full integral summer / winter air conditioning system, vandal-resistant walls and a video surveillance system featuring continuous image recording of the passenger compartment. Great attention was also paid to the train's design, with input from industry experts, tailored to the customer's requirements.

Deliveries of the 12 trains, that will be manufactured at Hitachi Rail's plants at Reggio Calabria and Naples, are due to start in autumn 2019.

"This new contract - says Maurizio Manfellotto, CEO Hitachi Rail Italy and Group COO Service & Maintenance Hitachi Rail - demonstrates our customer's trust in our company and products. Passengers in Milan have already begun to experience these trains, and we are proud to be able to manufacture a further 12 units to enhance mobility in the city."

"Reliability, quality and punctual delivery - says Giuseppe Marino, Group COO, Rolling Stock Hitachi Rail - are drivers of an up-to-date and sustainable mobility. Our trains are characterised by high safety and comfort levels, while the digitalisation of our factories enables optimisation of our time to market. At the same time, our customers can rely on our international, highly professional and competent workforce."

About Hitachi Rail Italy S.p.A

Hitachi Rail Italy is the most important railway vehicle manufacturer in Italy. In November, 2015 it was acquired by Hitachi Rail Europe. The company was originally formed through the merger of well-known Ansaldo Trasporti and Breda Costruzioni Ferroviarie, who brought together over 160 years of expertise in making urban mobility and rail transport a reality. Hitachi Rail Italy has 2,000 employees working in manufacturing plants in Naples, Pistoia, Reggio Calabria, San Francisco and Miami. The products of Hitachi Rail Italy range from High Speed, the ETR1000 high speed train to trams, metros (including driverless), to regional trains: Caravaggio, Vivato and TSR. The vehicles produced by Hitachi Rail Italy operate in over fifteen countries around the world. The company is led by CEO Maurizio Manfellotto. For more information on Hitachi Rail Italy, please visit the company's website at http://www.hitachirail.com/.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

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

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

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

"BE@RBRICK SUMMER CHILL" Summer Party at Harbour City

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Over 30 BE@RBRICKS with Brand New Summer Looks & Giant "Sand Sculpture" BE@RBRICK Gathering at "Ocean Terminal Deck" of Harbour City
You can enjoy the stunning view of Victoria Harbour and sun bathing together with BE@RBRICKS
Harbour City launches the "BE@RBRICK SUMMER CHILL" Limited Edition Premiums
Over 30 BE@RBRICKS with Brand New Summer Looks & 2 Giant "Sand Sculpture" BE@RBRICKS Gathering at Ocean Terminal Deck

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The BE@RBRICK crew is back in Hong Kong again this summer! Harbour City shopping mall transforms "Ocean Terminal Deck", the latest tourist attraction and observation deck in Hong Kong located at Ocean Terminal of Harbour City, into a "Beach" from 5th Jul to 5th Aug, 2018; and invites over 30 BE@RBRICKS with 8 brand new summer looks to join the beach party. The BE@RBRICKS also help to build two over 4-meter-tall Giant "Sand Sculpture" BE@RBRICKS, including one 7000% BE@RBRICK who greets all visitors at 2 sides of Victoria Harbour; and one 8000% BE@RBRICK lying on the grand steps to enjoy sun bathing. Let's join our Summer Party together and enjoy the sunshine with stunning Victoria Harbour view!

"BE@RBRICK SUMMER CHILL" Summer Party at Harbour City: https://youtu.be/vgOBZu-DtLg

1. "BE@RBRICK SUMMER CHILL" Summer Party at Harbour City
This Summer, Harbour City transforms "Ocean Terminal Deck" into a "Beach" and invites over 30 2000% & 3000% BE@RBRICKS with 8 brand new summer looks (including Hawaii Oppa, Bearkini and Diver, etc.) to join the beach party. Some BE@RBRICKS are playing hide-and-seek on the beach while others are enjoying the sun under beach umbrellas. The BE@RBRICKS also beat the heat by building two giant "Sand Sculpture" BE@RBRICKS, including one 7000% (4.9M) BE@RBRICK who sits on the beach to greet all visitors at 2 sides of Victoria Harbour; and one 8000% (5.6M) BE@RBRICK who lies on the grand steps of the Ocean terminal Deck to enjoy sun bathing with stunning Victoria Harbour view.

Date: 5/7 - 5/8/2018
Time: 10am - 8pm
Venue: Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City (Rooftop of Ocean Terminal New Extension Building)

2. BE@RBRICK TUCK SHOP - First Launch of BE@RBRICK x isee isee Jumbo Ice Pop
Cool down at the BE@RBRICK TUCK SHOP with a series of Harbour City X BE@RBRICK limited edition premiums, including BE@RBRICK x ISEE iSEE Jumbo Ice Pop (Price: HK$60), Jumbo Ice Pop Mold (Price: HK$150), Fresh Juice (Price: HK$40), Beach Towel (Price: HK$120) and Swim Ring (Price: HK$120); all premiums will keep you feeling summertime cool even when the temperatures continue to rise.

3. Redemption of Harbour City X BE@RBRICK limited edition premiums
During the promotional period from 7 Jul - 5 Aug, 2018 (Every Sat & Sun), customers can get the chance to redeem one BE@RBRICK Towel or BE@RBRICK Swim Ring with same-day spending of HK$3,000 or above by electronic payment (limited to credit card / EPS / Octopus) at any Harbour City retail and F&B outlet.

4. BE@RBRICK Summer Chill Game Fun
It's time for Summer Water Fun! Let's make a splash with various summer-perfect BE@RBRICK water games with your kids and family. You can also have chance to win adult/kids T-shirt and a set of summer-look BE@RBRICK stickers that are Not for Sale!

Date: 7/7 - 5/8/2018 (Every SAT & SUN)
Time: 2pm - 7pm
Venue: Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City
Game Card & Gift Redemption Venue: BE@RBRICK Tuck Shop, Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City
Participation Methods:
Customers are eligible to redeem one game card by any one of the following methods.
1) Cash Payment: HK$40
2) Presentation of a single machine-printed receipt* on the same-day with purchase of HK$200 or above at Harbour City retail, F&B outlet or BE@RBRICK Tuck Shop.

5. Summer Water Play Party
Various performers are creating big splashes of fun this Summer with Water Play Party every weekend! The party includes water drums, bubbles and plenty of water to help guests stay cool in the Summer heat.
Date: 7/7 - 5/8/2018 (Every SAT & SUN)
Time: 5:30pm & 6:30pm
Venue: Grand Steps, Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City

Access to Ocean Terminal Deck
- Walk through the end of LCX, 3/F, Ocean Terminal to New Extension Building in Ocean Terminal and take the escalator to R/F
- Walk through 6/F, Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel to the end of Ocean Terminal Rooftop Car Park
- Drop off at the end of Ocean Terminal Rooftop Car Park

Enquiry: (852) 2118 8666
Website: www.harbourcity.com.hk
Facebook / Instagram / twitter: #hcbearbrick #hcart #harbourcity

Download more videos & photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/2k2psyh0cwdthz6/AAC_HtyS-T8MXyPYkorZY-Uma?dl=0

Media Enquiry: Harbour City Estate Limited
Mr. Andrew Yeung, Tel:(852) 2118 8674, Email: andrewyeung@harbourcity.com.hk
Ms. Florence Man, Tel:(852) 2118 8623, Email: florenceman@harbourcity.com.hk

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

Xarbon Launches Asia's First Digital Carbon Credit and Partners with UNOPS to Support the Low-Carbon Economy

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- The only Asian blockchain company working with the UNFCCC to create a universal transparent carbon credit trading market;
- Xarbon partners with UNOPS to support low-carbon economy development;
- Co-invested USD18 million on OLED lighting project to offset carbon emission;

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Xarbon Sustainability Limited ("Xarbon" or the "Company"), a Hong Kong based sustainability technology company using blockchain to improve carbon credit trading market transparency, is pleased to announce today that the Company will have a strategic partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services ("UNOPS") to support low-carbon economy development. On the other hand, the Company has taken part in co-investment of USD18 million on a Korean-based OLED lighting project to offset carbon emission.

Xarbon launched the first Digital Carbon Credit "OCO", on top of the New Economy Movement ("NEM") Blockchain, which aims to future proof the carbon economy. The team believes that by applying blockchain technology to the carbon credit market, that OCO can improve transparency of carbon credit transfer, simplify user verification process, and incentivize individuals to uphold behavioral change.

The Company has a partnership and received endorsement from the UNOPS, the operational arm of the United Nations dedicated to implementing projects for the United Nations System, to support low-carbon economy development by establishing digitalized carbon, aiming to improve education, awareness-raising and social impact on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning among different governments and organizations.

Mr. Johnny Chong, Chairman & Founder of Xarbon, commented, "It is our honor to join hands with UNOPS to take part in carbon credit trading market. Carbon emission resulting in climate changes is not only an environmental issue, but also a social issue that needs every country to push forward. The endorsement from the UNOPS shows its unreserved support for applying blockchain technology to provide transparency to the carbon credit trading market for all market participants. Backed by our digitalized carbon credit token OCO, we shall work closely with the UNOPS to promote cross border carbon credit trading among Asian countries."

Meanwhile, Xarbon has taken part in a USD18 million worth co-investment on OLED lighting project to support the future sustainability for city and home lighting technology. This is the first lighting and technology company to use Xarbon digitalized carbon unit OCO to offset for carbon credit in a reduction of carbon emission.

"OCO is the Asian first digital carbon unit with high investment value. We are very glad to co-invest with other Asian investors to promote and support the digital technology on creating a low-carbon economy," said Mr. Chong. "It is an important step to our enterprises and countries over the world to support the Paris Agreement with OCO and re-invest on sustainability projects."

Mr. Jeffery LIU Xun, Co-Founder of Xarbon, is the public face of Xarbon and has been speaking at various international conferences around the world. Such as but not limited to, The Chainers2018 Summit in Korea, The United Nations Asia-Pacific Climate Week in Singapore, and the upcoming UNICOM Blockchain Summit in Hong Kong.

Jeffery is an engineer and serial entrepreneur that begun developing and investing in the blockchain space in since 2013. He has ample experience in business development and project management. Throughout Jeffery's career, he has advised, built, and grown multiple technology ventures into successful liquidations for shareholders. His first venture Panjury, which he founded, was an online sentiment analyser, whose technology was sold to the Chinese big-data giant ONL, resulting over 1,500% returns for investors within three years. His second venture Snapask, an education technology company, in which he served as COO, had grown from an ed-tech startup to an almost billion-dollar education conglomerate, resulting over a 100x multiple returns for various shareholders & investors.

Jeffery's current focus is on growing Xarbon into a globally recognized brand. "Currently we have created over 200 million tons of Carbon Dioxide reductions in the world. By 2020, I'll make this figure 3 billion".

About Xarbon
Xarbon Sustainability Limited is an independent solution service provider, operating by an international team with experts from US, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China. Xarbon is the world's first digital carbon assets that are backed 1-to-1 by traditional Carbon Instruments held in their reserves. These Carbon Instruments are issued to them by IGOs like the United Nations in return for the sustainability projects the Xarbon team conducts globally. Website: http://xarbon.com/en

About Carbon Trading
Carbon Trading is a market mechanism that The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (the "UNFCCC") adopted on 9 May 1992. This mechanism incentivizes the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions by giving a handful of state backed entities the ability to commoditize and place a monetary value on each metric ton of Carbon Dioxide emitted in their respective jurisdictions. These assets that represent one ton of Carbon Dioxide emissions are generally called "Carbon Credits" or "Carbon Units".

Media Enquiry
Across Asia Communications
Chloe Chan
Tel: +852 3111 5177
Email: chloe.chan@acrossasia.hk


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

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo Opens Today

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The Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo opened today (18-24 July), concurrently with Hong Kong Book Fair.
At the Sports Expo, Safe Archery Fun (5E-E17) exhibits HADO e-sports from Japan.
At the Book Fair's Japan Pavilion, KADOKAWA (5E-H04) and the Anime Tourism Association offer mixed-reality tours of Japanese landmarks from renowned anime.
- Next to the Hong Kong Book Fair, Japan Pavilion - Featuring Anime and Culture!

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The 2nd Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo opened today at the HKCEC. Organised by the HKTDC, the seven-day expo (18-24 July) is held concurrently with the Hong Kong Book Fair. The Expo features over 130 exhibitors showcasing a broad selection of sports and leisure products from more than 160 brands, with more than 50 on-site demonstrations and events. Visitors can visit both fairs with one ticket.

Product Demos and New Activities to Trial

This year's Expo features a variety of thematic zones, including Board Games, Fun & Play, Photography World, Outdoor Adventure, Sports Hub, Health & Fitness, and Handicraft Market. Visitors can explore the zones that cater to their interests and shop for a diverse range of products.

Exhibitors offer free demonstrations or trials, such as climbing a six-metre-high rock-climbing wall from GoNature HK, with coaches providing guidance and teaching basic climbing techniques as well as safety measures on-site. In addition to trainers demonstrating various fitness routines, exhibitor Street Workout Hong Kong will hold the Hong Kong qualifying competitions for the Street Workout Freestyle (21 July) and Power & Strength (22 July) World Championships at the fairground. Exhibitor Safe Archery Fun introduces HADO, an emerging e-sport from Japan that combines augmented reality and wearable technology to offer a virtual dodgeball-like game.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board brings visitors even more e-sport experience by offering games in different formats for trial. Other demonstrations, experiential activities and games available for free trial include football, cycling, archery, Krav Maga, dragon boat rowing machines workout and a gigantic board game. There are also photography seminars.

Apart from exhibitors' comprehensive offerings, the expo features a range of other attractive on-site activities, including artistic cycling, rope skipping, football demonstrations, weightlifting introduction and competitions, as well as daily lucky draws.

Sharing Sessions with Star Athletes

Local star athletes will host sharing sessions during the Expo. Chan Yuen-ting, the first female coach of a professional men's football team in Hong Kong; Steve Lo, Hong Kong's first Marathon Grand Slam winner; Wong Hiu-ying, the first Hong Kong gymnast to create an internationally recognised gymnastic move; Ada Tsang, the first Hong Kong female to summit Mount Everest; Fung Wah-tim, a marathon coach; Chan Ka-ho and Yiu Kit-ching, Hong Kong Athletic Team members; and Lisa Cheng, a rock climber, will share stories about their athletic careers.

The fourth day (21 July) of the fair will feature a National Geographic Photography Forum titled "The 300,000-kilometer Photo-shooting Project", where host Ivan Tsoi, Operation Director (HK) of National Geographic magazine, and photographer Eddy Li will exchange photography tips and stories.

Japan Pavilion at Book Fair

Next to the Expo is the Hong Kong Book Fair's Japan Pavilion, where KADOKAWA Corporation, one of Japan's four largest publishers, stages a mini-exhibition of film director Mamoru Hosoda's works. It also collaborates with the Anime Tourism Association to offer mixed-reality tours of 88 Japanese landmarks featured in renowned anime.

Japan National Tourism Organisation partners with 17 cities and prefectures to introduce Japanese culture, landmarks, food and leisure attractions, as well as offering kimono try-ons and cultural performances.

One Ticket, Two Fairs

The HKTDC continues to offer the "one ticket, two fairs" arrangement, offering Visitors, especially youths, a range of excellent summertime activities to cultivate their diverse interests in reading, sports, outdoor activities and handicrafts.

Tickets at Hong Kong Ticketing and designated 7-Eleven and Circle K stores. Visitors can also purchase tickets at the fairground ticket office. Admission e-tickets also available via Tap & Go mobile wallet and the Octopus App, visit Tap & Go and Octopus websites.

Websites:
Sports & Leisure Expo: http://www.hktdc.com/hksportsleisureexpo/en
Hong Kong Book Fair: http://www.hkbookfair.com/en
Photo download : https://bit.ly/2uG2DfV

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 more than 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 business insights and 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:
Sam Ho, HKTDC T: +852 2584 4569, E: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

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

Shares of 7Road Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 797) Commences Trading on Main Board of SEHK

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Mr. Meng Shuqi, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Group(left) and Mr. Li Hu, Shareholder of the Group(right), hit the ceremonial gong in the trading hall, marking the Group's listing on SEHK today on 18 July 2018.
Mr. Meng Shuqi, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Group (right) and Mr. Guo Xiyuan, Renowned Chinese Artist (left), present a souvenir to Ms. Chan Yuen Shan, Clara, Listing Committee Member of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (middle).
The Group's management and its officiating guests attend the listing ceremony of 7Road today.
HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Shares of 7Road Holdings Limited ("7Road" or the "Group"), a leading developer and operator of online games in China, successfully commenced trading on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK") today, under the stock code 797.

In connection with the Global Offering, a total of 666,680,000 Shares were offered. GF Capital (Hong Kong) Limited and CCB International Capital Limited are the Joint Sponsors of this listing.

About 7Road Holdings Limited
7Road Holdings Limited ("7Road" or the "Group") is a leading online game developer and operator in China, and casual shooting games and strategy role-playing games ("SRPGs") are its main focus. It boasts global business coverage with its games in 21 language versions published in over 100 countries and regions. The Group's two flagship web game titles, DDTank and Wartune, are market favorites. To date, the Group has launched 15 proprietary games, including 12 web games, two mobile games and one H5 game, and it also has a robust pipeline of ten proprietary games. The Group has strong long-term business relationships with more than 100 premium game publishers worldwide, including Tencent, Garena Online, etc.

Media Enquires:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Cindy Lung Tel: (852) 2864 4867 Email: cindy.lung@sprg.com.hk
Rita Fong Tel: (852) 2114 4939 Email: rita.fong@sprg.com.hk
Stephanie Liu Tel: (852) 2864 4852 Email: stephanie.liu@sprg.com.hk
Fax: (852) 2527 1196


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

FTLife Launches New Annuity Product

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Up to 5%1 return rate leading in private market;
First-in-market2 inheritable annuity with comprehensive protection

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - FTLife Insurance Company Limited ("FTLife") has launched a new annuity product "IncomePro" Annuity Plan (the "Plan"), offering another choice to Hongkongers interested in investing in private deferred annuity products. With the population aging and birth rate declining in Hong Kong, and following the launch of the first public annuity plan by the government early this month, FTLife is introducing the "IncomePro" Annuity Plan which offers a return rate of up to 5%1, the highest in the private market. The Plan also has two first-in-market features2 - policy continuation option and premium holiday, plus three flexible aspects and four areas of protection, making it a premium choice promising diverse benefits for Hong Kong people.

Gerard Yang, CEO of FTLife, said, "Our flagship product 'Regent Insurance Plan' has been well received in the market since it was launched in 2017, accounting for over 60% of APE3. On top of the higher return rate and better protection, 'inheritability' is an integral concept of the plan, and this concept also underscores the new Annuity Plan which has incorporated a policy continuation option that allows clients to pass it on to their spouse or next generation. Marrying comprehensive protection and flexible premium payment arrangement, this plan can satisfy various needs of clients from saving for retirement to handing down of wealth, giving Hongkongers a more flexible annuity plan option in the private market."

Numerous premium payment periods, accumulation periods and income periods options
The Plan offers different choices of premium payment period (5, 9 or 12 years), accumulation period (10, 15 or 20 years / till age 55, 60 or 65) and income period (15, 20 or 30 years / till age 88 or 100) for clients with different retirement plans.

Case 1
Issue age: 50
Planned age of retirement: 65
Premium payment period: 9 years
Approximately HK$ 10,144 per month
Approximately HK$ 1,095,582 paid in total
Accumulation period: 15 years
Income period*: 20 years
Total income approximately HK$ 2,527,500
i.e. receive approximately HK$10,530 per month
Rate of return*: 4.2%
Total income is 2.3 times of total premium

Case 2
Issue age: 30
Planned age of retirement: 65
Premium payment period: 12 years
Approximately HK$ 1,562 per month
Approximately HK$ 224,979 paid in total
Accumulation period: Till age 65
Income period*: Till age 88
Total income approximately HK$1,590,360
i.e. receive approximately HK$5,762 per month
Rate of return*: 5.0%
Total income is 7.1 times of total premium

The above case illustrations assume premium is paid annually, and no inflation protector option, premium holiday or premium payment special arrangements. Some figures are rounded up or down, which may result in some discrepancies in the total sum. Monthly income and rate of return are not guaranteed in the income period.

First-in-market2 Policy Continuation Option
Instead of terminating the policy after the death of the insured like other existing plans in the market, the policyowner of this new annuity plan can apply for the first-in-market2 "policy continuation option" during the lifetime of the insured and assign a beneficiary as the new insured and policyowner (where applicable) upon the death of the insured. The policy shall then remain effective with one's loved ones continuing to receive a monthly income4 with all protections offered by the product also remain unchanged.

Example: Husband assigns wife as beneficiary during his lifetime

First-in-market2 Premium Holiday of up to two-year
When a client does not have sufficient cash for paying the premium over a short period of time yet wish to retain the policy, the Plan offers a premium holiday allowing the client to suspend premium payment for up to two years5 with the policy remaining effective. The flexible arrangement is aimed at giving a client time to resolve and address unexpected issues and needs.

Four Areas of Comprehensive Protection
During the income period, the plan provides all-round protection for clients to travel the world, complemented by advanced critical illness benefit, terminal illness benefit and loss of beloved benefit, enabling clients to enjoy life to the fullest worry-free. The innovative protection covers:

1. Travel medical and accident benefit - During the income period, the policyowner is entitled to reimbursement of travel medical expenses of up to 10% of the total premium paid per policy year6. Moreover, an additional one-off accidental death or disability benefit6 of lump-sum up to 100% of total premiums paid is offered, allowing clients to travel the world and fully enjoy every journey.

2. Advanced critical illness benefit - If the insured is diagnosed with new cancer, or had a stroke or heart attack during the income period, 50%7 of the remaining future monthly income amount will be paid in advance, so that client can receive the required treatments timely.

3. Terminal illness benefit - If the insured is diagnosed with terminal illness8 during the income period, a lump-sum death benefit will be paid in advance, and additional monthly income will be paid in the next 12 months to alleviate the financial burden of the client during such difficult times.

4. Loss of beloved benefit - During the income period, upon the death of the insured's spouse or any of his or her children, the policyowner shall receive an extra lump-sum benefit of 20% of the total premium paid9 to take care of the needs of the client and his/her family.

Christine Yeung, Chief Product Officer of FTLife, stressed, "As always, the Company strives to innovate in product development. Our flagship product 'Regent Insurance Plan 2' has been well received by customers as it offers first-in-market10 features including an automatic lock in option, a premium holiday of up to four years and unlimited changes of the insured and protection for new insured up to age 128, allowing passing on of wealth with no time limit. 'HealthCare 168 Critical Illness Protector' is another flagship product of ours that boasts also a number of first-in-market features, such as coverage of 168 critical illnesses, benefit of up to the equivalent of 160% of the insurance amount for respiratory diseases, and waiver for all future premiums after confirmed diagnosis of illnesses of severity level 2 or 3 and claim made. Both products have enjoyed high praises from the independent institution 10Life. Mirroring our consistent approach in product design, this latest product has a new in market policy continuation option and a premium holiday of up to two years, evidence of FTLife's dedication to innovation and customer-oriented spirit. We hope this new product will follow in the footstep of 'Regent Insurance Plan 2' and 'HealthCare 168 Critical Illness Protector' in achieving great results and helping customers plan a worry-free life, as well as pass their wealth, love and care to their beloved."

Three Flexible Advantages
1. Flexible Change of Accumulation Period / Income Period11- Depending on his or her retirement needs, client may choose to advance or delay receipt of annuity, and also prolong or shorten the income period. The plan allows customers to plan their future life in retirement with flexibility and gives them full control on the date and time to start receiving annuity payment.

2. Inflation Protector Option12 - Client can exercise this option, permitting automatic increase of the premium each year by 5% of the initial premium during the premium payment period without having to provide evidence of insurability. The option enables customers to receive increased monthly income in the future, protecting them against inflation.

3. Special Premium Payment Arrangement13 - Client faces different challenges in different stages of life. This special arrangement option aims to help customers to achieve financial flexibility to meet their different needs at different times. After a customer has paid premium for five years, he or she may apply to reduce future premiums and put the partial surrender value back into the policy to earn interest at the rate of 4.25% (non-guaranteed).

Angela Yam, Chief Marketing Officer of FTLife, added, "The essential purpose of annuity is to provide retirees with a monthly income, ensuring that they have a stable basic income after retirement, which is a rather important concept in today's ageing society. FTLife has strived to understand and stay abreast of the needs of retirees. To that end, FTLife will launch an online questionnaire on retirement and a lucky draw for those who filled out the questionnaire to help us collect relevant information. The Company will give out travel coupons to the winner, that he or she may enjoy the fun of travelling before starting a new life after retirement. We hope our new annuity plan can help our customers to better plan for the future and, with a smart retirement plan drawn up, they will be able to enjoy every moment in life in the future."

Customers may visit FTLife's online questionnaire webpage (social.ftlife.com.hk) to join the "IncomePro - Wonderful Tour Lucky Draw" between 20 July 2018 and 31 August 2018. Just by completing a simple questionnaire and filling out a lucky draw form, one will be able to take part in the lucky draw, with the grand prize being HK$8,000 worth of travel coupons and another 100 lucky winners will receive a toy glider from FTLife. The lucky draw winner list will be published on FTLife's online questionnaire webpage, Sing Tao Daily and The Standard on 14 September 2018. The winners will also be informed by FTLife staff via the phone or email. Trade promotion competition licence number: 050784. For the terms and conditions of the lucky draw and promotion, please visit the online questionnaire webpage.

Notes:

1. The rate of return is calculated based on Case 2 and it may vary with age of the insured and with different plans. It is not a guaranteed return. Monthly income may be adjusted on each policy anniversary and the actual amount during the income period may vary.
2. "First-in-market" items are relative to same type of annuity plans in the market as of June 2018.
3. Data as of June 2018.
4. Upon the death of the insured during the accumulation period, and in the case which the beneficiary shall become the policyowner, the beneficiary may choose to receive a lump-sum death benefit.
5. Starting from the third policy anniversary, the client can apply for a premium holiday starting the next policy anniversary.
6. Maximum travel medical benefit is USD10,000 per insured per policy. Maximum accidental death or disability benefit is USD200,000 per insured per policy.
7. After the critical illness claim payment, the guaranteed cash value, terminal dividend, balance of cash account (the amount converted from the accumulated annual dividends and interests (if any) and special bonus (if any) at the end of the accumulation period) and future monthly income will be reduced accordingly.
8. Terminal illness means the unequivocal diagnosis by a doctor of an illness that is expected to result in death of the insured within 12 months. The terminal illness benefit will only be paid once. The policy will be terminated after the benefit is paid.
9. Subject to the maximum of USD 10,000 per insured per policy, this loss of love benefit will only be paid once. Immediate coverage for death resulted from an accident, but a 2-year waiting period will be applied to death resulted from illness.
10. "First-in-market" items are relative to same type of life insurance saving plans in the market, as of February 2018.
11. Client can apply for this option starting from the third policy anniversary. The period being changed should match any of the pre-set options of the plan. No application of such change will be accepted after the commencement of income period. Application for such change is subject to the prevailing administrative rules of the Company.
12. Not applicable to policies with premium prepayment. After each premium increment, the guaranteed cash value, monthly income, terminal dividend (if any) and future annual dividend (if any) and special bonus (if any) to be distributed will then be adjusted accordingly.
13. Premium payment special arrangement is only applicable to policy with a 9-year or 12-year premium payment period. Guaranteed cash value, future monthly income, annual dividend (if any), special bonus (if any) and terminal dividend (if any) will be adjusted or recalculated.

Important notes:
- The information contained in this document is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. For details, please refer to relevant product brochure and client incentive leaflet. Please refer to the policy provision for details of full terms and conditions.

- For further details, please contact FTLife's Customer Service Hotline on 2866 8898.

- This document is for distribution in Hong Kong only. It is not an offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any insurance product outside Hong Kong. FTLife does not offer or sell any insurance product in any jurisdictions outside Hong Kong, in which such offering or sale of the insurance product is illegal under the laws of such jurisdictions.

About FTLife Insurance Company Limited
FTLife Insurance Company Limited ("FTLife") is one of Hong Kong's largest life insurance companies and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tongchuangjiuding Investment Management Group Co., Ltd. ("JD Group"). Capitalising on a heritage of professionalism and excellence in serving clients, FTLife seeks to become a leading insurance group in Asia. It serves individual and institutional clients from a diverse portfolio of financial protection and wealth management products. FTLife aims to excel by cultivating lasting relationships and dedicates itself to providing clients with best-of-breed financial services to help them lead fulfilling lives.

About JD Group
Headquartered in Beijing, JD Group has offices in China, North America and other parts of Asia. The Group runs companies in the financial services industry and is engaged principally in investment, Internet finance, and insurance. One such business is JD Capital, a China-based leader in private equity investment. The Group aspires to become an insurance-centric financial asset management platform operating on a global scale.

Media inquiries
FTLife Insurance Company Limited
Branding, Marketing & Communication
Tel: +852 2591 8888
Email: ftlhk.mkt@ftlife.com.hk


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

29th Hong Kong Book Fair Opens with Record 680 Exhibitors from 39 Countries

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Readers are waiting at the entrance of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) for the opening of the week-long Hong Kong Book Fair.
Co-organised with the National Geographic, the "Photo Gallery of Silk Road" exhibition showcases photos that capture the culture and landscape along the Silk Road.
The popular Japan Pavilion returns with the largest number of participants ever. Exhibitors from 17 cities and prefectures including Tottori, Shikoku, Okinawa, Kansai and Iwate showcase various aspects of Japanese culture as well as popular spots that are featured in anime and manga.
Theme of the Year: "Romance Literature"; 310 Cultural Events

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The 29th Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by HKTDC, opened today and runs until 24 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai. This year's fair welcomes a record number of 680 exhibitors from 39 countries and regions, showcased across 14 thematic zones, including the "General Books Pavilion", "English Avenue", "International Cultural Village", "Children's Paradise" and "E-books & e-Learning Resource".

These zones display a variety of high-quality reading materials. Meanwhile, precious manuscripts of renowned writers are exhibited at the Art Gallery located at Hall 3 Concourse of the HKCEC. About 310 cultural events catering to different ages and interests are being held during the fair period including seminars, cultural performances and story-telling sessions.

"The theme for this year's Book Fair is 'Romance Literature', with the tag line 'Reading the World, What on Earth is Love?'" said HKTDC Executive Director Margaret Fong. "Distinguished works of romance literature have deeply touched uncountable booklovers through the years. Writers of different times have led readers to explore and appreciate love through reading. Hong Kong authors have made significant contributions to the development of romance literature, while their writings also reflect social changes through time. We hope that through the theme of the year, readers will be able to discover more high-calibre romance writers and literature of different styles."

Exploring Love through Romance Literature

Echoing the theme of the year, a dedicated zone named "Love between the Lines" introduces romance writers representing the pre- and post-1990s eras respectively. These include Eileen Chang, Su Xu, Yi Shu, Johnny Yip and Eunice Lam who launched their writing careers before the 1990s, as well as Zita Law, Lam Wing Sum, Sirena Cheng, Tin Hong and Middle, who started during or after the 1990s. The exhibition area displays a range of the writer's precious items, including out-of-print novels and manuscripts. Selected film and theatre performance clips of their adapted works are also shown, offering an additional means to appreciate romance literature.

"Theme of the Year" Seminar Series

A number of prominent romance writers are spotlighted in the "Theme of the Year: Romance Literature" seminar series. Among the speakers, Eileen Chang's estate executor Roland Soong and literary critic Tom Fung will discuss Eileen Chang's classics; Professor Wong Nim-yan and writer Peter Dunn will examine how 1960s Hong Kong shaped the works of Yi Shu and Johnny Yip. At a seminar today, Writer Chip Tsao had a dialogue with media veteran Kam Kwok-leung and columnist April Lam on Eunice Lam's 1970s viewpoints on the culture of love.

Meanwhile, new-generation romance writers will share their thoughts about writing at the fair. Zita Law and spiritual practitioner Jenny Suen will explore reality and spirituality in relation to love. Sirena Cheng will discuss the relationship between love and writing, making reference to a newly published book co-written by her and Lin Xi (Albert Leung). Tin Hong will join Yu Er and Kenneth Wong in sharing experience of writing about love, while Middle will offer a new take on "the meaning of missing out".

Photos of Silk Road

At the Art Gallery, the "Photo Gallery of Silk Road" exhibition is co-organised by the HKTDC and National Geographic to exhibit award-winning photographs that capture the culture and landscape along the Silk Road. With the support of media and organisations from Zhejiang Province, another exhibition, "A Journey to Zhejiang", features paintings by the province's renowned painters and cartoonists including Feng Zikai, Huang Binhong and Pan Tianshou. Zhejiang Yue Opera, as well as demonstrations of woodblock printing and bamboo paper production, will be performed. Jointly presented by the HKTDC and the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong, another Art Gallery exhibition entitled "A Gem of Chinese Culture - Cantonese Opera" displays a diverse collection of exhibits such as costumes, special magazine issues and promotion leaflets. Cantonese opera performances will also be staged to showcase this cultural heritage of Guangdong and Hong Kong.

World-renowned Chinese-language Writers

The HKTDC collaborates with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan to co-organise the Renowned Writers Seminar Series, with notable Chinese-language writers from around the globe sharing their literary experience and insight. The series opened today with Ye Fu sharing his decade-long writing experience. Renowned Taiwanese writer Lung Yingtai will present her new book and share her views on Sunday (22 July). Other renowned speakers participating in the series include Chinese mainland writers Zhang Kangkang, Beidao, Mangke, A Yi, Yu Xiuhua, Duo Yu and Li Xin. Among other speakers are Luo Yijun, Jimmy, Hu Chingfang, Cai Zhiheng and Lee Kan from Taiwan, Leo Lee Oufan, Li Yukying, Ma Kafei and Zhou Jieru from Hong Kong, Li Changsheng from Japan, as well as Dai Xiaohua from Malaysia.

Reading the world from Hong Kong

Apart from Chinese literary works, the Book Fair also encourages the public to read books in other languages to broaden their horizons. Supported by an international online bookstore Book Depository, English-language authors featuring in the English Reading and Creative Writing Seminar Series will share their creative thoughts. These include Indian-born Singaporean writer Balli Kaur Jaswal, who is attracting much attention in English literary circles. Also in the line-up are best-selling campus novel writer M. A. Bennett from the United Kingdom, and Singaporean writer Sharlene Teo, who has been commended by best-selling author Ian McEwan. Denise Y. Ho, Assistant Professor of History at Yale University and locally based writer Mark O'Neill will also introduce their new works.

International Cultural Village

The Book Fair promotes cultural exchanges through the International Culture Village, which features 33 countries and regions, including France, Germany and Italy, together with new participants from Austria, the Czech Republic, Greece and Ireland. Exhibitors showcase their cultures through books also offer a wide range of events for the public to experience different cultures. The popular Japan Pavilion returns with the largest number of participants ever. Exhibitors from 17 cities and prefectures including Iwate, Kansai, Shikoku and Okinawa are teaming up with the Japan National Tourism Organisation and KADOKAWA Corporation to showcase local books, cultural products and virtual-reality tours of spots featured in anime and manga.

The World of Knowledge Seminar Series aims to enrich readers' world knowledge. With support from the Consulate General of Spain, writers Diana Coronado, Maria Jose Pareja Lopez and Nashua Gallagher hosted a seminar and guided readers to explore Spanish love poetry and prose today. Meanwhile, with the support of the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong & Macau, acclaimed French writer Chantal Thomas will give a talk on the social status and power of women in the 18th century. The European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macau has also invited Latvian writer Janis Jonevs, winner of the European Union Prize for Literature, to share his advice on writing.

Children's Paradise

Located on the third level of the HKCEC, the Children's Paradise features more than 200 exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of books and educational materials for children of different ages. The "Children and Youth Reading Seminar Series" covers such topics as parent-child reading and children's education. Distinguished speakers including former Legislative Council President Jasper Tsang and children's writer Mimi Zhou will share tips on how to guide children to develop interest in reading.

Other seminar series being held during the Book Fair include the "Personal Development and Spiritual Growth Seminar Series" where Joseph Sung and Ambrose King, both former Vice-Chancellors of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, as well as comic artist Ma Wing-shing and cross-media creator Erica Li will speak. Also on the schedule are the "Lifestyle Seminar Series" and the "Hong Kong Cultural and Historical Seminar Series" covering a wide range of topics catering to different interests. For more details and registration for the seminars, please refer to the Hong Kong Book Fair website or mobile app. Visitors who are not pre-registered for a seminar may still try to gain admission by arriving early. "Green Tips" are listed on the Book Fair website and mobile app, encouraging visitors to support the event's green initiatives and help protect the environment.

One Ticket, Two Fairs

The second edition of the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo is being held concurrently on Level 5 of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Sports and Leisure Expo features more than 130 exhibitors and over 160 brands, as well as more than 50 on-site events and activities. These include HADO, an emerging e-sport from Japan that combines augmented reality and wearable technology. Facilities and games available for free trials include a six-metre-high rock-climbing wall, lawn bowls, a golf simulator, a dragon-boat rowing machine, augmented-reality war games and photography workshops. Furthermore, the Hong Kong Tourism Board provides visitors with the opportunity to try a variety of e-sports, such as football and basketball.

A number of star athletes are also participating. Chan Yuen-ting, the first female coach of a professional men's football team in Hong Kong; Steve Lo, Hong Kong's first Marathon Grand Slam winner; and Wong Hiu-ying, the first Hong Kong gymnast to create an internationally recognised gymnastic move, will share their stories. In the next few days, Ada Tsang, the first Hong Kong woman to conquer Mount Everest, Fung Wah-tim, a renowned Hong Kong marathon coach, Chan Ka-ho and Christy Yiu, members of the Hong Kong Athletics Team, as well as rock climber Lisa Cheng Lai-sa will host sharing sessions. Visitors can visit the Sports and Leisure Expo with a valid Book Fair ticket for the same day.

Book Fair Website : http://www.hkbookfair.com
Mobile app: http://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/HKBookfairApp.html
Cultural July Website http://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/CulturalJuly
Hong Kong Sports & Leisure Expo Website www.hktdc.com/hksportsleisureexpo
Photo Download: https://bit.ly/2LrLMo4

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 more than 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 business insights and 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:
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org Angel Leong, Tel : +852 2584 4194, Email: angel.lw.leong@hktdc.org Joshua Cheng, Tel: +852 2584 4395, Email: joshua.cp.cheng@hktdc.org

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

Novotech Partners with Asian Eye Institute for Accelerated Ophthalmic Drug and Devices Clinical Trials

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Mr. Benjamin K. Liboro, President of Asian Eye Institute, Inc. (left) and Dr Yooni Kim, Executive Director, Asia Operations Novotech
SYDNEY, Jul 19, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Asia-Pacific specialist CRO Novotech announced today it has partnered with the Asian Eye Institute, Inc (AEI), a private eye center in the Philippines, to facilitate high-quality and rapid feasibility, start-up and recruitment processes for its ophthalmology clients.

The AEI has conducted over 100 clinical trials and investigator-led research and has become one of the leading sites in Asia for research in ophthalmic drug and devices.

Under the terms of the MOU, the AEI will provide its professional and clinical trial expertise to Novotech managed studies including feasibility, principal investigator selection, patient recruitment and execution of ophthalmology studies.

Novotech works in partnership with leading medical institutions across Asia to accelerate quality clinical research. The AEI partnership is designed to give Novotech clients faster start-up times and access to the AEI patient database, and leading principal investigators.

The AEI treats 60,000 patients each year at clinics across the Philippines. Specialist services include:
- general ophthalmology
- conventional and Victus Femtolaser cataract surgery
- pediatric ophthalmology
- orthoptics
- adult and pediatric strabismus management
- glaucoma, vitreous, and retinal disease management
- corneal and external eye diseases
- refractive correction

In addition, the AEI:
-- Ethics Review Board holds a level 3 accreditation from the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board
-- has certification for ISO 9001:2008, 14001:2004 and OHSAS 18001:2007
-- is accredited by the Accreditation Canada International
-- is recognized member of the ASEAN Association of Eye Hospital (AAEH) and World Association of Eye Hospitals (WAEH).
-- is the only WAEH member in the Philippines
-- browse www.asianeyeinstitute.com

Novotech Executive Director, Asia Operations Dr. Yooni Kim said the Philippines with a population of 107 million is well established as a premier clinical research location.

"The MOU means Novotech will also have dedicated clinical experts within the AEI to support and prioritise rapid clinical processes for Novotech biopharma clients," Dr. Kim said.

"Novotech is the Asia-Pacific CRO, so is committed to establishing ongoing engagement with leading medical institutions in each country across the Asia-Pacific region. We have offices and teams on the ground as well as MOUs and long-term relationships with major hospitals that directly benefit our clients."

"Our in-country relationships enable a more comprehensive understanding of local regulatory changes, access to leading PIs, strong site connections, and productive patient populations to deliver success for our clients within timelines and budgets."

Novotech was established in 1996, headquartered in Australia with offices in 11 countries across the region, and MOUs with major health providers.

About Novotech - https://novotech-cro.com/welcome
Headquartered in Sydney, Novotech is internationally recognised as the leading regional full-service contract research organisation (CRO). With a focus on clinical monitoring, Novotech has been instrumental in the success of hundreds of Phase I - IV clinical trials in the Asia Pacific region.

Novotech provides clinical development services across all clinical trial phases and therapeutic areas including: feasibility assessments; ethics committee and regulatory submissions, data management, statistical analysis, medical monitoring, safety services, central lab services, report write-up to ICH requirements, project and vendor management. Novotech's strong Asia Pacific presence includes running clinical trials in all key regional markets. Novotech also has worldwide reach through the company's network of strategic partners.

For RFP enquiries: Please fill out the form available at www.novotech-cro.com/contact-us-0

Media Contact
Susan Fitzpatrick-Napier
communications@novotech-cro.com
AU: +61 2 8218 2144
USA: +1 415 951 3228
Asia: +65 3159 3427

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

SGS 2018 Half Year Results

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SGS REPORTS SOLID PERFORMANCE IN H1 AND CONFIRMS ITS FULL YEAR GUIDANCE

GENEVE, CH, Jul 19, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - The SGS Group performed strongly in the first semester reporting total revenue of CHF 3.3 billion:

- Strong organic growth was achieved across the entire business portfolio, as the Group continues to build its offering to customers
- Total revenue increased by 6.5% (of which 5.6% organic) on a constant currency basis to CHF 3.3 billion
- Adjusted operating income grew 9.2% on a constant currency basis to CHF 481 million
- Adjusted operating income margin improved to 14.6%
- Minerals and Governments and Institutions achieved double-digit revenue growth of 13.8% and 11.1% respectively
- 7 acquisitions completed
- The Group paid a dividend of CHF 577 million

These results, in line with 2018 expectations, position SGS as the leader in organic growth in the Testing, Inspection and Certification Market and underline the Group's focus on delivering long-term value for customers, shareholders and society.

2018 GUIDANCE

The Group expects to deliver solid organic revenue growth and higher adjusted operating income margin on a constant currency basis, and a continuation of its robust cash flow generation.

Join the webcast at 14:00 CET https://bit.ly/2uAjrWa

Learn more https://www.sgs.com/en/our-company/investor-relations/investor-overview

SGS is the world's leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 95,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 2,400 offices and laboratories around the world.

For further information, please contact:
Media: Daniel Rufenacht, Corporate Communications, t: +41 78 656 94 59
Investors: Toby Reeks, Investor Relations, t: +41 22 739 99 87

Attachment:
2018_HYR_Press_Release_Web_LR_Single_Pages
https://bit.ly/2uxvWlj

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

Latest Data on Eisai's Alzheimer's Disease / Dementia Pipeline to be Presented at Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) 2018

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Thirteen presentations to be given including on Phase II study results of BAN2401 and elenbecestat

TOKYO, Jul 19, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announces today that a total of 13 presentations highlighting results from a Phase II clinical study (Study 201) of the anti-amyloid beta (Abeta) protofibril antibody BAN2401 and a Phase II clinical study (Study 202) of the oral BACE (beta amyloid cleaving enzyme) inhibitor elenbecestat (development code: E2609) in addition to the latest data on its Alzheimer's disease / dementia pipeline including anti-Abeta antibody aducanumab, will be given at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) 2018, in Chicago from July 22 to 26, 2018. BAN2401, elenbecestat and aducanumab are being jointly developed by Eisai and Biogen Inc.

As previously announced on July 10, an oral presentation will be given on the results of Study 201 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01767311) on BAN2401 in early Alzheimer's disease (mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease or mild Alzheimer's disease dementia) as a late-breaking abstract. Eisai and Biogen announced on July 6 that Study 201 achieved statistical significance on key predefined endpoints evaluating efficacy at 18 months on slowing progression in Alzheimer's Disease Composite Score (ADCOMS) and on reduction of amyloid accumulated in the brain as measured using amyloid-PET (positron emission tomography). This study was first late-stage study data successfully demonstrating potential disease-modifying effects on both clinical function and amyloid beta accumulation in the brain. The most commonly reported adverse events were infusion reactions and amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA).

The BAN2401 study 201 data presentation will be webcast live. To access the live webcasts, please visit the Investors section of Eisai's website on the day at https://www.eisai.com/ir/index.html.

For elenbecestat, a poster presentation will similarly be given as a late-breaking abstract on the results of Study 202 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02322021) on elenbecestat in patients with mild cognitive impairment and mild-to-moderate dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. On June 6, 2018, it was announced that from the positive topline results of Study 202 at 18 months, elenbecestat demonstrated acceptable safety and tolerability (primary endpoint), as well as a statistically significant effect on Abeta levels in the brain as measured by amyloid-PET (exploratory endpoint). A numerical slowing of decline in functional clinical scales of a potentially clinically important difference was also observed, although this effect was not statistically significant. The six most common adverse events observed were contact dermatitis, upper respiratory infection, headache, diarrhea, fall, and dermatitis. Elenbecestat is currently being investigated in two ongoing Phase III clinical studies (MISSION AD1/2) in patients with early Alzheimer's disease.

In addition, regarding aducanumab, an oral presentation and a poster presentation will be made on the long-term administration of aducanumab from a Phase Ib clinical study being conducted by Biogen. Currently, Eisai and Biogen are advancing two Phase III clinical studies (ENGAGE/EMERGE) on aducanumab.

Furthermore, presentations will also be made on the novel phosphodiesterase-9 inhibitor E2027, including an oral presentation on the results of a Phase I clinical study as well as poster presentations on non-clinical studies. Discovered and developed solely by Eisai, E2027 is currently being investigated in a Phase II/III clinical study as a potential treatment for dementia with Lewy bodies.

Regarding the investigational sleep-wake agent lemborexant, baseline data from a Phase II clinical study (Study 202) in patients with irregular sleep-wake rhythm disorder (ISWRD) and Alzheimer's disease will also be presented at AAIC 2018. Discovered by Eisai, lemborexant has been jointly developed with Purdue Pharma L.P. since August 2015.

Eisai is aiming to realize prevention and cure of dementia through a holistic approach to dementia drug discovery research based on a foundation of over 30 years of experience of drug discovery activities in the area of Alzheimer's disease / dementia. Eisai is striving to create innovative medicines as soon as possible in order to further contribute to addressing the unmet medical needs of, as well as increasing the benefits provided to, patients and their families.

About BAN2401

BAN2401 is a humanized monoclonal antibody for Alzheimer's disease that is the result of a strategic research alliance between Eisai and BioArctic. BAN2401 selectively binds to neutralize and eliminate soluble, toxic Abeta aggregates that are thought to contribute to the neurodegenerative process in Alzheimer's disease. As such, BAN2401 may have the potential to have an effect on disease pathology and to slow down the progression of the disease. Eisai obtained the global rights to study, develop, manufacture and market BAN2401 for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease pursuant to an agreement concluded with BioArctic in December 2007.

About elenbecestat (generic name, development code: E2609)

Elenbecestat is an oral BACE (beta amyloid cleaving enzyme) inhibitor currently being investigated in Phase III clinical studies for Alzheimer's disease discovered by Eisai. By inhibiting BACE, a key enzyme in the production of Abeta peptides, elenbecestat reduces Abeta production, which is thought to lead to a reduction in amyloid plaque formations caused by the aggregation of toxic oligomers and protofibrils in the brain. Currently, two global Phase III clinical
studies (MISSION AD1/2) of elenbecestat in early Alzheimer's disease including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD/Prodromal AD and the early stages of mild AD are underway. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track designation for the development of elenbecestat, a process to facilitate development and expedite review by FDA for drugs deemed as having potential to treat serious conditions and addressing unmet medical needs.

About Aducanumab (BIIB037)

Aducanumab is an investigational compound being developed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Aducanumab is a human recombinant monoclonal antibody (mAb) derived from a de-identified library of B cells collected from healthy elderly subjects with no signs of cognitive impairment or cognitively impaired elderly subjects with unusually slow cognitive decline using Neurimmune's technology platform called Reverse Translational Medicine (RTM). Biogen licensed aducanumab from Neurimmune under a collaborative development and license agreement.

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

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

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

About the Joint Development Agreement between Eisai and Biogen for Alzheimer's Disease

Eisai and Biogen are widely collaborating on the joint development and commercialization of Alzheimer's disease treatments. Eisai serves as the lead in the co-development of elenbecestat, a BACE inhibitor, and BAN2401, an anti-Abeta protofibril antibody, while Biogen serves as the lead for co-development of aducanumab, Biogen's investigational anti-Abeta antibody for patients with Alzheimer's disease, and the companies plan to pursue marketing authorizations for the three compounds worldwide. If approved, the companies will also co-promote the products in major markets, such as the United States, the European Union and Japan.

About E2027

Discovered by Eisai, E2027 is a selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) 9 inhibitor. Inhibiting PDE9 reduces the degradation of cyclic GMP which is critical to signal transmission among cells. By helping maintain the concentration of cyclic GMP in the brain, E2027 has the potential to be a new treatment for dementia with Lewy bodies.

About Lemborexant (generic name, development code: E2006)

Lemborexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist, is Eisai's in-house discovered and developed small molecule compound that inhibits orexin neurotransmission by binding competitively to the two subtypes of orexin receptors (orexin receptor 1 and 2). In individuals with sleep disorders, it is possible that the orexin system that regulates sleep and wakefulness is not functioning normally. During normal periods of sleep, orexin system activity is suppressed, suggesting it is possible to purposefully counteract inappropriate wakefulness and facilitate the initiation and maintenance of sleep by interfering with orexin neurotransmission. Therefore, Eisai and Purdue have been developing lemborexant as a treatment for multiple sleep disorders.
In addition, a Phase II clinical study of lemborexant in patients with irregular sleep-wake rhythm disorder (ISWRD) and mild to moderate Alzheimer's dementia is underway.

About Eisai

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

Contact:
Public Relations Department Eisai Co., Ltd. +81-(0)3-3817-5120

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

Casbaa releases updated pay TV and OTT Regulatory Review for Asia

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Director, Policy & Research, Clare Bloomfield, and CEO, Louis Boswell, at the launch party for the revised OTT and regulatory policies for the video industry around Asia.
Findings show Asian policies remain relatively static for pay TV - more chatter seen for OTT

HONG KONG, Jul 19, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Casbaa, the Association for the Asian video industry, today released their long-awaited review of OTT and regulatory policies for the video industry around Asia. Based on a year-long study of legal frameworks and government policies in 17 Asian markets, and using the UK and USA as comparators, Casbaa has examined key issues in regulation of the pay TV and online video industry.

Casbaa released a booklet entitled "OTT TV Policies in Asia", which focuses on policies for professional, curated over-the top (OTT) services[1]. In parallel Casbaa also announced that more detailed matrices looking at a broad range of policy issues for both traditional pay TV and OTT are available online, for members only, at www.casbaa.com/rfg. Together, these publications provide an in-depth picture of the diversity of regulatory approaches prevailing across Asia.

Speaking at the launch event last night, Louis Boswell, CEO of Casbaa, stated that "We are providing a unique resource through this study and the accompanying online database. As OTT continues to grow around the region, so governments continue to look at how and if they need to regulate it. It is essential for any content provider in the OTT space to understand these dynamics and as the video industry association it is our job to keep the industry updated".

Casbaa continues to engage with governments to advocate for light-touch regulation, for new and more traditional video services. "It will take time and effort to persuade Asian governments to move beyond their legacy regulatory approaches for video", said Chief Policy Officer John Medeiros. "We aim to help our members navigate the changes in what still remains a very unclear operating environment."

The new publication follows on from the regulatory review entitled "Same, Same But Different", released in 2015. They analyse key issues such as governance, copyright protection, content regulation and licence restrictions. For OTT regulation, both written and unwritten policies are in substantial states of flux and attracting much high level political interest with many governments talking about "how" to regulate, not "whether" to regulate.

[1] The book "OTT TV Policies in Asia" is freely available for download on the Casbaa website and can be found at www.casbaa.com/resources/casbaa-publications/public-report

About CASBAA

Casbaa is THE trade association for the video industry and ecosystem in Asia Pacific. It serves to make the video industry stronger and healthier through promoting the common interests of its members. Casbaa leads the fight against video piracy, publishes in-depth reports and hosts conferences and seminars aimed to support a vibrant video industry. For more information, visit www.casbaa.com.

Contact:
Kay Bayliss Manager, Marketing & Communications Tel: +852 2854 9913 pr@casbaa.com

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

DOCOMO, Evernote, Marubeni Software & Technology (Thailand) to Offer Evernote Business in Thailand

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TOKYO, Jul 19, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - NTT DOCOMO, INC., Evernote Corporation and Marubeni Software & Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (MSTT), a subsidiary of Marubeni IT Solutions Inc., announced today that they have jointly entered into the first distributor agreement in southeast Asia for Evernote's cloud business service, Evernote Business. MSTT will begin providing the service to customers in Thailand on July 20.

MSTT and DOCOMO, through its Thai-based subsidiary, Mobile Innovation Co., Ltd. (MI), will join forces to provide installation and operation support as well as convenient billing options for Evernote Business, which teams use to increase productivity and optimize time management. MSTT will leverage its expertise in enterprise resource planning (ERP), business intelligence (BI) software and IT infrastructure construction to propose comprehensive solutions using Evernote Business for a range of business problems.

Customers in Thailand will be able to pay for the monthly service via credit card or by invoice if they subscribe to Evernote Business via MSTT.

DOCOMO and Evernote began their partnership when DOCOMO Capital first provided Evernote with funding in 2009. Then in 2010, DOCOMO launched a free version of Evernote Premium, normally a paid service, for DOCOMO customers in Japan. DOCOMO became Evernote's first reseller in 2014, and since then the two companies have been expanding the value of the Evernote cloud service in Japan.

Continuing economic progress is expected to drive up the demand for cloud services in Asia-Pacific countries. Thailand's per-capita GDP is high, especially in urban areas such as Bangkok, and the market has expanded substantially. Moving forward, DOCOMO aims to leverage its expertise in Evernote from the Japanese market to support MSTT's activities in Thailand through MI.

To sign up for Evernote Business: https://evernote.com/intl/en/business/partners/partners-thailand

About Evernote

Evernote is a platform that helps individuals and teams create, assemble, nurture and share information, serving 220 million people.

We enable our community to manage information overload by helping them remember everything, turn ideas into action, and work effortlessly with others on their teams. We do this by building innovative products that give people access to information anytime, anywhere and provide resources that inspire organization so people can focus on what matters most. https://evernote.com/intl/jp/

About Marubeni Software & Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

As a member of Marubeni Group, a wide range of IT solutions including system building, introduction support and operational services to customers mainly in Thailand and other locations in the ASEAN region since its establishment in October 1989.

We have also engaged in ERP system development as Japan's offshore development base. http://www.mstt.co.th.

About NTT DOCOMO

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

Contact:
NTT DOCOMO International PR Public Relations Department Tel: +81-3-5156-1366 Fax: +81-3-5501-3408 URL: www.nttdocomo.com Contact: https://nes.nttdocomo.co.jp/PINQ01/showinquiry.do

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

NOON Capital Launches Southeast Asia's First Blockchain-Backed Real Estate Project

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- NOON manages a US$20 million property portfolio, leveraging blockchain around the financing and management of real estate projects
- Founded by real estate developers experienced in development and management of residential properties in Europe and Asia
- Connects investors to real estate opportunities in tier two Southeast Asian cities, including Phuket

SINGAPORE, Jul 19, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - NOON Capital, a Southeast Asia-based property investment platform, has announced plans to establish strategic real estate investments in tier-two Southeast Asia cities. Its first two properties have an accumulated value of US$20 million. One has been completed and is fully operational, while the second is due for completion in 2019. NOON Capital is also shifting the financing and management of new investments onto blockchain - making it the first real estate developer in Southeast Asia to build, manage and drive individual and institutional investment through blockchain technology.

NOON Capital's investment mantra is to focus on tier two Southeast Asian cities, where there is more room for bringing market efficiencies, lower barriers to entry and more room for growth and value creation for shareholders.

"Thailand has a stable currency, low inflation, a strong banking system, and is embracing blockchain technology. It has great infrastructure for both our investors and tenants," said Luca Dotti, Managing Partner of NOON Capital. "This makes rapidly developing cities such as Phuket an attractive proposition, because it has the safety and structure of a developed country, while also having immense real estate potential for investment and development."

According to The World Bank, Thailand has moved from a low-income country to an upper-income country in less than a generation. The country has articulated its long-term economic goals in its 20-Year National Strategy (2017-2036) focused on growth of Tier 2 cities, including Phuket and Chiang Mai. These cities are particularly interesting for the country's rapidly growing middle-class. The domestic disposable income is growing at 5 per cent a year, and the strong demographics is likely to foster further urbanization dynamics and wage increases. With its increased spending power, Thailand's middle-class is looking towards convenient, pricier housing solutions that still offer value for money.

A Track Record in Innovation

Claudia Zeisberger, Academic Director of INSEAD Global Private Equity Initiative, has also joined NOON Capital's advisory board to support its business expansion with her vast experience in private equity, and her insights around blockchain developments. This follows other senior appointments at NOON Capital as it builds its portfolio and grows from strength to strength.

NOON Capital's Tower Phase I was the first project completed in December 2016, featuring a 74-unit condominium tower located at the heart of Chalong, the main residential district of Phuket. In its first ten months, it has reached an impressive 90 per cent occupancy rate. Following this, the company is also venturing into the development of Spazio NOON, a network of co-living spaces in Thailand which won the Patrick Turner Award at the INSEAD Venture Capital Competition - awarded to projects with large potential social impact. The construction of its first outpost in Phuket is due to commence in the second part of the year.

By integrating blockchain technology into its investment processes and housing upkeep, NOON Capital is aiming to secure funding from investors through digital certificates backed by its project. The interconnectivity of these applications onto the same blockchain (Ethereum) creates a seamless, efficient and transparent investment process. It also provides quick updates, such as distributing a small dividend to investors in real-time every time NOON Capital receives a monthly rental payment. For housing purposes, tenants can also use digital wallets to pay regular monthly bills such as basic utilities and rental.

About NOON Capital
NOON Capital is a Southeast Asia-based property investment platform that aims to reinvent the way properties are funded, designed and managed in ASEAN. Specialising in the creation of stylish, aspirational and affordable residential assets, NOON Capital seeks to cater to young professionals and middle-class families. To deliver maximum value to its shareholders and homeowners, NOON Capital maximizes its control of the entire property development and management value chain. It controls the execution of projects, ranging from design architecture to property management. As a strong supporter of technological innovations, NOON Capital is deploying its real estate development and financing management pipeline onto blockchain. This digital solution stands on the highest principles of governance and transparency to streamline transactions and deliver liquidity and cost-efficiencies. For more information, please visit https://www.noon.sg/

Media Contact
PRecious Communications for NOON Capital
T: +65 6303 0567
E: nooncapital@preciouscomms.com

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

Academic, Corporate Collaboration Succeeds at World's Most Efficient Solar Power-Generated Hydrogen Production

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University of Miyazaki, The University of Tokyo, Fujitsu Laboratories, and Sumitomo Electric use trial system to create hydrogen energy from solar power in Miyazaki

- Academic, Corporate Collaboration Succeeds at World's Most Efficient Solar Power-Generated Hydrogen Production
- University of Miyazaki, The University of Tokyo, Fujitsu Laboratories, and Sumitomo Electric use trial system to create hydrogen energy from solar power in Miyazaki
- University of Miyazaki,Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd.,Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

TOKYO, Jul 19, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) -
Key Points

Researchers successfully used electricity obtained from high-efficiency concentrator photovoltaic cells (with an output of 470 W), currently under research and development at the University of Miyazaki, to electrolyze water, converting 18.8% of the solar energy (daily average) to hydrogen energy. This is the highest efficiency ever achieved by a practical system in an outdoor experiment.

Deploying new electrical conversion equipment between the solar cells and the electrolysis equipment enabled researchers to provide a stable power supply to the electrolysis equipment without varying solar cell output loss due to weather conditions, thereby delivering the world's highest efficiency.

The utilization of hydrogen energy obtained from the abundant sunlight of Miyazaki prefecture is expected to lead to local production and consumption of renewable energy.

Announcement Summary

A research group consisting of Assistant Professor Yasuyuki Ota and Professor Kensuke Nishioka from the University of Miyazaki, Professor Masakazu Sugiyama of the University of Tokyo, Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., and Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd., designed and built a system for water electrolysis using electricity obtained from high-efficiency concentrator photovoltaic cells, successfully converting 18.8% of the solar energy (daily average) to hydrogen energy. Hydrogen has been promoted for use as a new energy carrier, with high expectations for the combination of renewable energy, such as solar power, with water electrolysis as a hydrogen energy production system that does not emit CO2. The University of Miyazaki has been working with the University of Tokyo to design and conduct a field trial of a system for producing hydrogen using solar cells and electrolysis equipment. Now, the research group has newly developed electrical conversion equipment (DC/DC converters)(1) that efficiently supplies electricity obtained from new high-efficiency concentrator photovoltaic cells(2) to polymer electrolyte electrolysis equipment(3), and has achieved an average daily energy conversion efficiency rate of 18.8% converting solar energy to hydrogen, in a field trial using actual sunlight. This field trial was able to manufacture hydrogen using the resource that is the abundant solar energy that falls on Miyazaki Prefecture, and local production and consumption of energy may be expected in Miyazaki Prefecture in the future.

Announcement Details

Research Background and Problem Areas in Previous Research The use of hydrogen is promising as a new energy carrier that does not emit CO2, and there have been ongoing efforts to create a hydrogen-based society. Currently, fossil fuel reformation technology, one of the primary methods for making hydrogen, is well established technologically, but it emits CO2 as part of the hydrogen production process. Furthermore, water electrolysis using electrical energy can emit CO2 depending on the power generation method used to produce the electrical energy. The combination of renewable energy, one type of which is solar power, and electrolysis has been proposed as one way of obtaining truly clean hydrogen, with the anticipation of establishing a totally CO2-free hydrogen supply system. In their work on a hydrogen production system combining solar cells and water electrolysis equipment, the research group at the University of Miyazaki was able to achieve conversion efficiency of 24.4% from solar energy to hydrogen, the highest ever in the world, in a field test using a system that connected concentrator photovoltaic cells with ordinary polymer electrolyte electrolysis equipment(4). However due to changes in the operating temperature of the concentrator photovoltaic cells caused by outside air temperature and sunlight, as well as changes in the strength of sunlight due to factors such as clouds, it was difficult to maintain high hydrogen production efficiency throughout the day. Furthermore, it will be necessary to develop large-scale, high-efficiency hydrogen production systems in order to deploy large volumes of hydrogen sourced from renewable energy. As a result, the team felt it was desirable to conduct a field trial of long-term, high-efficiency hydrogen production in actual outdoor sunlight, closer to a true commercial implementation.

Research Details The research group, including Assistant Professor Yasuyuki Ota and Professor Kensuke Nishioka from the University of Miyazaki, and Professor Masakazu Sugiyama of the University of Tokyo, connected the new high-efficiency concentrator photovoltaic cells installed in the University of Miyazaki's outdoor testing area to water electrolysis equipment using polymer electrolyte membranes and to electrical conversion equipment (DC/DC converters), specially designed for this system by Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., to efficiently convert the electricity obtained from the solar cells. The result was the successful production of hydrogen throughout the day in actual sunlight, efficiently and stably. The average energy conversion rate of sunlight to hydrogen throughout the day was 18.8%, establishing a world record for a practical system. With the previous experimental system, which directly connected the concentrator photovoltaic cells with the electrolysis equipment, because of variations in the maximum output (the point where maximum conversion efficiency is obtained) from the solar cells due to operating temperatures and the amount of solar radiation, there was an issue of lower conversion efficiency with operations that took place over many hours. Now, the electrical conversion equipment Fujitsu Laboratories newly developed for this system enables high energy conversion efficiency (90.0%) from the solar cells to the electrolysis equipment. This is achieved by controlling the voltage and electric current supplied to the electrolysis equipment, in accordance with the varying temperature and amount of solar radiation that change with the time of day, to consistently generate the maximum output from the solar cell. Concentrator photovoltaic cells require optics-based designs for components such as lenses, and advanced tracking technology to ensure the lenses accurately face in the sun's direction, so it is not easy to improve power generation efficiency in actual outdoor environments. For this trial, the concentrator photovoltaic modules (manufactured by Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.,) were mounted on a high-accuracy sun tracking mount at the University of Miyazaki, which serves as the research and development location for concentrator photovoltaic cells, and were able to achieve an average power generation efficiency (efficiency in converting solar energy to electrical energy) of 27.2% throughout the day in actual outdoor sunlight conditions in Miyazaki prefecture. Going forward, the power generation efficiency of concentrator photovoltaic modules under actual operating conditions is expected to improve to 35%, and assuming an energy transfer efficiency of 80% from electricity to hydrogen in water electrolysis, it is anticipated that the energy conversion efficiency from sunlight to hydrogen will reach 25%.

Future Issues and Developments, and Impacts on Society Because the concentrator photovoltaic cells and electrolysis equipment used in this trial are already on the market, by using Fujitsu Laboratories' newly deployed electrical conversion equipment, it is possible to achieve hydrogen production from sunlight with a high efficiency rate of 18.8% with current technology.

Furthermore, it is easy to extend the hydrogen production equipment used in this trial to large-scale solar power generation systems, making it an important technology in the scaling up of hydrogen production that will be needed in the future. Moreover, the hydrogen was produced using the sunlight falling on Miyazaki prefecture. This is a form of energy production that utilizes Miyazaki Prefecture's solar resources, and by storing and utilizing hydrogen produced in this way, and by developing new energy applications with hydrogen energy, local production and consumption of energy can be expected in Miyazaki. Reductions in production costs are critical to the widespread use of hydrogen energy. Currently, concentrator photovoltaic cells are more expensive than ordinary photovoltaic panels, but outside of Japan, in areas of abundant sunlight with strong solar radiation, it has been possible to reduce energy production costs with greater generation efficiency. If gigawatt-level deployments necessary for hydrogen production move forward outside Japan, the price of concentrator photovoltaics may fall to a level equivalent with silicon photovoltaics. Combined with electrolysis equipment, the costs for which are falling due to technological advancements and mass production, these developments may reduce hydrogen production costs below Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry's target of up to 20 yen per cubic normal meter (Nm3)(5). The newly developed electrical conversion equipment eliminated restrictions on system configuration between the solar photovoltaic power system and the electrolysis equipment, accelerating the scaling-up of solar-based hydrogen production. In order to further promote the spread of solar power generation systems and hydrogen production using electrical energy obtained from those systems, not only are further improvements in efficiency and reductions in cost necessary for the concentrator photovoltaic cells, electrical conversion equipment, and electrolysis equipment that make up these systems, there is also a need for improvements in system resilience in the face of changes in input power due to sudden changes in light levels. The research group hopes to contribute to the further spread of hydrogen sourced from renewable energy by advancing R&D so as to improve resilience based on further field trials.

(1) Electric power conversion equipment (DC/DC converters) Equipment to convert the electrical current and voltage characteristics of the input side (in this case, the photovoltaic cells), to the electrical current and voltage characteristics needed by the output side (the water electrolysis equipment). Assuming electrical conversion equipment currently available on the market were used in the equipment configuration developed in this trial, energy transport efficiency would be limited to about 80%.
(2) Concentrator photovoltaic cells A type of photovoltaic cell that produces energy when strong sunlight concentrated through a lens is focused on small semiconductor elements made of high-quality semiconducting materials used in products such as lasers and LEDs. The semiconductor elements use three different materials that absorb different wavelengths of light, efficiently producing electricity from sunlight.
(3) Polymer electrolyte electrolysis equipment Equipment that conducts electrolysis of water by joining catalyst electrodes to both sides of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, supplying water to one side while applying direct current to both electrodes.
(4) Reference A. Nakamura, Y. Ota, K. Koike, Y. Hidaka, K. Nishioka, M. Sugiyama and K. Fujii: Appl. Phys. Express. 8, 107101 (2015) DOI: 10.7567/apex.8.107101
(5) Reduce hydrogen production costs below Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry's target of up to 20 yen per cubic normal meter (Nm3) From "Basic Hydrogen Strategy," released by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on December 26, 2017.

About Fujitsu Laboratories

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

About Fujitsu

Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, offering a full range of technology products, solutions, and services. Approximately 140,000 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 4.1 trillion yen (US $39 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2018. For more information, please see www.fujitsu.com.
About Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

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

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 Laboratories Ltd. Computer Systems Laboratory E-mail: E-mail: mbd-staff@ml.labs.fujitsu.com Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Solar Energy Department Power Systems R&D Center Munetsugu Ueyama E-mail: ueyama-munetsugu@sei.co.jp Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Tel: +81-3-3215-5259 URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

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

Fujitsu Joins RE100, a Global Renewable Electricity Initiative

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Accelerates renewable electricity use to achieve "Fujitsu Climate and Energy Vision"

TOKYO, Jul 20, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Fujitsu today announced that it has joined RE100(1), an international initiative led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP, as Japan's first Gold Member. RE100 aims to have companies use 100% renewable energy for the electricity they consume. In line with this, Fujitsu will expand its use of renewable energy with the goal of sourcing 100% of the electricity consumed at Group locations, both in and outside of Japan, from renewable sources by 2050. Fujitsu will also undertake R&D and technology trials in areas such as energy management and storage, contributing to the spread of renewable energy throughout society.

Under the "Fujitsu Climate and Energy Vision," a medium-to-long term environmental outlook set forth in May 2017, the Fujitsu Group aims to bring Fujitsu's CO2 emissions down to zero by 2050. Along with the thorough implementation of energy-saving measures, the expanded use of renewable energy represents a critical component to achieving this goal. Fujitsu has joined RE100, which strives to significantly expand the adoption of renewable electricity on a global scale, and will further strengthen efforts to boost use of renewable electricity across the Fujitsu Group. Specifically, at locations in Japan and around the world, starting with datacenters outside of Japan, Fujitsu will consider the appropriate steps for each region and expand its procurement of electricity from renewable sources. Fujitsu will concurrently continue its work on R&D and technology trials for energy management and storage, and contribute to the spread of renewable energy in society as a whole.

Renewable Energy Electricity Usage Goals at Fujitsu Group Locations

Goal: 100% by 2050
Intermediate goal: 40% by 2030

Message from Sam Kimmins, Head of RE100, The Climate Group:

"We are delighted to welcome Fujitsu to RE100. Their commitment comes at a crucial time, sending a clear message to the world that Japanese companies are committed, alongside their global peers, to using 100% renewable power." Fujitsu has been actively conducting seminars and environmental events for employees around the world, and in June 2018, invited Sam Kimmins, Head of RE100 at The Climate Group, to a dialogue on the environment(2). By continuing to hold this type of event, Fujitsu also hopes to raise employee consciousness of the use and spread of renewable energy.

(1) RE100 RE100 is a collaborative initiative led by The Climate Group in partnership with CDP. An initiative of The Climate Group, an international NGO, it consists of companies committed to source 100% of the electricity they use from renewable sources.
(2) Dialogue on the environment An event where knowledgeable people from a variety of fields, including NGOs, universities, and the media, are invited to hold a conversation on the topic of the environment. Fujitsu began holding these events in 2011, and has held 31 as of the end of June 2018.

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: +81-3-3215-5259 URL: www.fujitsu.com/global/news/contacts/

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

CLX Communications AB (publ): Interim report, January - June 2018

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Kista, Sweden, Jul 20, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - January - June 2018
- Net sales increased by 36 percent to SEK 1,856.0 million (1,367.4). Organic growth in local currency was 17 percent.
- EBITDA amounted to SEK 133.5 million (120.1).
- EBITDA excluding items affecting comparability1 (adjusted EBITDA) amounted to SEK 162.3 million (154.9), corresponding to SEK 3.05 (3.08) per share.
- Operational foreign exchange differences affected operating profit for the period by SEK 0.6 million (3.0).
- EBIT amounted to SEK 60.1 million (59.3).
- Profit after tax for the period amounted to SEK 38.3 million (32.2).
- Basic and diluted earnings per share amounted to SEK 0.71 (0.63).

Second quarter, April - June 2018
- Net sales increased by 34 percent to SEK 997.4 million (745.2). Organic growth in local currency was 18 percent.
- EBITDA amounted to SEK 80.3 million (49.3).
- EBITDA excluding items affecting comparability1 (adjusted EBITDA) amounted to SEK 97.4 million (74.0), corresponding to SEK 1.84 (1.45) per share.
- Operational foreign exchange differences affected operating profit for the period by SEK 2.6 million (3.9).
- EBIT amounted to SEK 39.8 million (18.3).
- Profit after tax for the quarter amounted to SEK 29.0 million (-1.2).
- Basic and diluted earnings per share amounted to SEK 0.54 (-0.03).

Significant events during the quarter
- On 4 April, CLX acquired 100 percent of the share capital in Vehicle Agency LLC, based in Seattle, Washington. The company specializes in technology and solutions in personalized message-based video and rich media communications solutions. The initial purchase consideration was USD 8 million on a cash- and debt-free basis. In addition, an earnout of USD 4 million was paid in July. The acquisition was financed with cash reserves. Additional earnouts, capped at USD 18 million, may be paid in the future.
- Oscar Werner was appointed President and CEO of CLX Communications AB on 19 April. Mr. Werner will take over on 1 September 2018. Johan Hedberg will take on a new role as head of business development, with focus on North America.
- On 18 May, the annual general meeting resolved to introduce a long-term incentive program for senior executives and key employees within CLX, by issuing a maximum of 1,500,000 warrants with exercise after 3/4/5 years. If fully exercised, dilution will be approximately 2.8 percent.

1) See the table on page 3 for a specification of items affecting comparability.

Invitation to report presentation by phone or online
The report will be presented in a phone conference at 09:00 CET on 20 July.

To participate in the presentation by phone, please call any of the following numbers and state the code 7484782:
SE: +46 8 5065 3942
UK: +44 33 0336 9411
US: +1 323 794 2094

Register here to watch the presentation via Webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/um75oogj.

Forthcoming reporting dates
Interim report, January - September 2018 6 November 2018

About CLX Communications
CLX Communications (CLX) is a leading global provider of cloud-based communication services and solutions to enterprises and mobile operators. CLX's mobile communication services enable companies to quickly, securely and cost-effectively communicate globally with customers and connected devices - Internet of Things (IoT). CLX's solutions enable business-critical communications worldwide via mobile messaging services (SMS), voice services and mobile connectivity services for the IoT. CLX has grown profitably since the company was founded. The Group is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, and has presence in a further 20 countries. CLX Communications' shares are traded at NASDAQ Stockholm: XSTO: CLX.

Note: CLX Communications AB (publ) is required to publish the information in this interim report pursuant to the EU market abuse regulation. The information was submitted for publication on 20 July 2018 at 07.30 CET.

This report is published in Swedish and English. In case of any differences between the English version and the Swedish original text, the Swedish version shall apply. This report has not been subject to review by the company's independent auditor.

2018_Q2_Interim_report_ENG
http://hugin.info/173289/R/2206343/857520.pdf

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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: CLX Communications AB (publ) via Globenewswire

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

Toyota Mobility Foundation Deploys Two- and Four-Wheeler Rental and Ride-Sharing Solutions

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To Alleviate Congestion and Enhance Access to the Metro Across Bengaluru

INDIA, Jul 20, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and the World Resources Institute (WRI) have initiated a project to deploy two- and four-wheeler rental and ride sharing solutions for congestion alleviation and enhanced first- and last-mile connectivity at six metro stations in Bengaluru, India. Each of the six metro stations will be characterized under distinct typologies based on the land-use and development around the station area. Products made available will include electric scooters with keyless entry, electric cycles, electrified car and micro transit options for ride sharing, with different business models, to better understand what the citizens of the city want. After a 1 year period, findings from these six metro station use cases will be shared with the Government and other interested stakeholders.

This project is an extension of the Station Access and Mobility Program (STAMP) initiated by TMF and WRI, from December 2016 through 2017, to facilitate high-quality first and last mile connectivity solutions, through a challenge platform that identifies innovative technologies and business models for mobility.

TMF, along with WRI, have also extended STAMP across Indian cities through a 3 year, multi-city initiative, with the next identified city being Hyderabad, in which innovative ideas last-mile connectivity solutions are being recognized and catalyzed. Through these solutions we expect an integrated and seamless mobility experience for the customers by building upon the mass rapid transit initiatives of the Indian government.

Project Overview

http://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_ToyotaProjectOverview72018.jpg

About the Toyota Mobility Foundation

The Toyota Mobility Foundation was established in August 2014 to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. It utilizes Toyota's expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in partnership with universities, government, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Programs include resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of personal mobility, and developing solutions for next generation mobility. Learn more at www.toyotamobilityfoundation.org.

About World Resources Institute

World Resources Institute (WRI) is a global research organization, headquartered in Washington DC, that spans more than 50 countries. With more than 450 experts and staff, WRI's global research and on-the-ground experience in Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Turkey and the United States combine to spur action that improves life for millions of people.

WRI India works closely with the government, businesses, civil society and other non-governmental organizations, to help solve the four most urgent challenges in India--rapid urbanization, the demand for energy, responding to climate change and the large-scale degradation of natural resources.

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

Toyota Motor Corporation Founder Kiichiro Toyoda Inducted into Automotive Hall of Fame

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Detroit, Michigan, Jul 20, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Cited for his extraordinary vision and entrepreneurial spirit, Toyota Motor Corporation founder and former president Kiichiro Toyoda was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame last evening in Detroit.

Kiichiro Toyoda was one of five industry leaders named to this year's Automotive Hall of Fame induction class. He is credited with expanding Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, a successful textile business created by his father, Sakichi Toyoda, into the world of automotive manufacturing in 1933. Kiichiro Toyoda served as president of Toyota Motor Corporation from 1941 to 1950. His technical skills and leadership forged the foundations of a company that would eventually grow to be one of the most respected corporations in the world. (See here for more information about Kiichiro Toyoda.)

"Kiichiro Toyoda embodied the foresight and innovation that few people in history possess, demonstrated by his significant contributions to the automotive industry. We are honored to include him in the 2018 induction class to the Automotive Hall of Fame", stated Ramzi Hermiz, President and CEO, Shiloh Industries and Board Chairman, Automotive Hall of Fame.

A contingent of Toyota Motor Corporation executives, led by Chairman of the Board Takeshi Uchiyamada, were on hand at the Automotive Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala Ceremony on July 19. Mr. Uchiyamada accepted Kiichiro Toyoda's award on behalf of the company and the family.

"America was a special place for Kiichiro. He was amazed by the prevalence of automobiles driving around U.S. cities in the late 1920s, and that was the catalyst for his determination to establish an automotive industry in his home country. As a successor and his grandson, I am very grateful and proud that Kiichiro has been inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in America," said Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corporation. "Kiichiro boldly changed Toyota's business model from automatic looms to automobiles without being constrained by previous successes. As his induction comes at a time when our industry is facing profound changes, I believe his message today would be to work hard to help the industry revolutionize the future of mobility, even if success is not immediate. I deeply appreciate the Automotive Hall of Fame for inducting my grandfather and our founder," he added.

The celebration was highlighted by the presence of a 1936 Toyoda AA replica vehicle, on loan from the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. The Toyoda AA was designed and manufactured under the guidance of Kiichiro Toyoda. The AA was the company's first production automobile and served as Kiichiro Toyoda's initial opportunity to experiment with waste-free and efficiency-focused production techniques, including the famous "just-in-time" concept. The vehicle helped pave the way for the renowned "Toyota Production System."

About the Automotive Hall of Fame

The Automotive Hall of Fame tells the stories of those who have made outstanding contributions to the automotive industry and has honored nearly 800 men and women from around the world. The Automotive Hall of Fame is located at 21400 Oakwood Blvd. in Dearborn, Michigan and is open to the public for tours. You can visit the Automotive Hall of Fame online at www.automotivehalloffame.org or on its Facebook and Instagram pages.

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
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