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CWX Global Narrowed Net Loss, Posted 16% Growth in Revenue to US$1.8M for 4Q FY18

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Group recorded gross profit of US$0.9M for 4Q FY18

SINGAPORE, Aug 27, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - CWX Global Limited ("CWX Global", SGX: 594), announced higher 4Q FY18 gross profit of US$0.9 million, an increase of 204% from US$0.3 million in 4Q FY17. This was mainly due to a 16% growth in revenue coupled with a 49% decrease in depletion cost of the Group's oil and gas properties in 4Q FY18 as compared to 4Q FY17.

- Higher average oil price of US$67 per barrel albeit lower oil production for the quarter
- Lower depletion cost of oil & gas properties reduced cost of sales by 30%
Group narrowed net loss from US$9.0M in 4Q FY17 to US$1.8M in 4Q FY18
- Excluding a gain on derecognition of deferred consideration of US$22.0M in 4Q FY17
- Active cost management while building its investment business
Going forward, Group expects growth from its Thailand oil concessions and investment business
- Encouraging results from drilling campaign in 2018 and targeting to explore more wells in the first half of 2019
- Group's associate company, FIT Global, commenced bilateral trading business in the second half of 2018

Stringent cost measures were carried out Group-wide, while the Group builds its investment business to balance the reliance on its 20% stake in the Thailand oil concessions. Operating expenses including administrative, other expenses and other charges, decreased by 76.0%, from US$8.8 million in 4Q FY17 to US$2.1 million in 4Q FY18.

Net profit after tax reversed from US$13.0 million in 4Q FY17 to a net loss after tax of US$1.8 million in 4Q FY18, mainly due to the absence of a one-off gain on derecognition of deferred consideration of US$22.0 in 4Q FY17. Excluding this gain, the Group would have narrowed its net loss after tax from US$9.0 million in 4Q FY17 to US$1.8 million in 4Q FY18.

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Jeffrey Pang, CEO and Executive Director of CWX Global said, "We continued to strengthen the Group through bolstering our balance sheet and building sustainable, profit-generating businesses for the long-term over the last financial year. These efforts will take time to bear fruit.

The Group's diversification into investment-related business is progressing well, albeit at a more modest pace amidst the geopolitical uncertainties, particularly the trade war between the United States and China. The oil and gas business segment continues to contribute positively with the higher oil prices, and we will continue our work on the Thailand concessions to realize more value over time.

Overall, the Group will continue to actively seek investment opportunities in a prudent manner to generate value for all shareholders."

While it is comforting that the oil prices have recovered from its lows, production from the older wells is seeing natural decline. The Joint Venture of the Thailand oil concessions is stepping up on its drilling efforts with the aim to reverse the decline in production and to take advantage of the current oil prices. At US$67, the post-tax cash flow is approximately US$30 per barrel.

The 2018 drilling campaign has successfully completed recently, with three out of three wells encountering hydrocarbons. The first two wells are in-fill/appraisal wells and have added more than 400 barrels of oil production a day to the existing production volume. Currently, flow testing on the third well, which is an exploration well, is underway. The initial flow results have been encouraging but further test is required to confirm its commercial viability. If it is successful, the new found reserves will be booked upon certification by an Independent Qualified Person.

The Joint Venture is also looking to build on the success of this drilling campaign with a new drilling campaign for follow-up wells in the first half of 2019. Currently, the profits and cash generated from the oil sales are sufficient to fund the drilling campaign.

For its investment business, the Group's associate, FIT Global, has just set up a bilateral trading business, providing access and quotes for exchange-traded and over-the-counter markets to its counterparties. The unit has been generating revenue since the commencement of operations in the second half of 2018. The Group expects its investment business to contribute as the business
grows.

As at 30 June 2018, the Group's balance sheet remains strong with net asset value at US$51.8 million. The net asset value per share was 1.60 US cents.

This press release is to be read in conjunction with the Company's results announcement posted on the SGX website on 24 August 2018.

About CWX Global Limited (Stock Codes - SGX: 594 | Bloomberg: CWX SP| Reuters: 594.SI)

CWX Global Limited ("CWX Global", SGX: 594), through the reorganisation of its business activities will be focusing on fund management, investment and trading. The Group, with its own team of professionals as well as through FIT Global Pte. Ltd., a strategic joint venture, will seek to offer a holistic suite of fund management and trading services for managed funds which are accessible to corporate and institutional investors.

The Group will be primarily involved in: (i) investments, including private equity deals, pre-initial public offerings (mature stage), initial public offerings, fixed income and hybrid instruments; (ii) trading, including the trading of equities, commodities and other financial instruments, including cryptocurrencies; (iii) fund management; and (iv) market making for commodities.

The Group's 20% stake in the Thailand onshore oil concessions located at Phetchabun Basin is presently its key investment. These concessions currently generate a steady income stream from its existing oil producing wells which, together with substantial proven reserves for development as well as significant potential exploration upside, holds the promise of value enhancement and sustainable long-term growth.

The Group believes diversifying into the investment and trading platforms will benefit both investors and shareholders alike, enhancing risk management and creating values for all.

For more information, please visit the company's website at www.cwxglobal.com

This press release has been prepared by the Company and its contents have been reviewed by the Company's sponsor, ZICO Capital Pte. Ltd. (the "Sponsor"), for compliance with the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the "SGX-ST") Listing Manual Section B: Rules of Catalist. The Sponsor has not independently verified the contents of this press release.

This press release has not been examined or approved by the SGX-ST and the SGX-ST assumes no responsibility for the contents of this press release, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this press release.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Ms. Alice Ng, Director of Continuing Sponsorship, ZICO Capital Pte. Ltd. at 8 Robinson Road, #09-00 ASO Building, Singapore 048544, telephone +65 6636 4201.

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

Mason Group Makes Major Leap in its 2018 Interim Results; Net Profit Surges More Than 18 Times

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The management of Mason Group at the 2018 interim results press conference: Mr. CHANG Tat Joel, Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer; Mr. KO Po Ming, Executive Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer; Ms. LUI Choi Yiu, Angela, Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary.
"Health + Wealth" Strategy Synergy Gradually Emerges

HONG KONG, Aug 27, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Mason Group Holdings Limited ("Mason Group" or the "Group", stock code: 273.HK) today announced its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 (the "Period"). With the continued implementation of its "Health + Wealth" strategy, the Group's net profit surged more than 18 times to approximately HK$172.18 million and saw a turnaround in its profit attributable to the Group's equity holders, amounting to approximately HK$135.43 million, with turnover increasing by 45.27% year-on-year to approximately HK$1,841.32 million. The significant improvement in the Group's performance is mainly attributable to the implementation of the "Health + Wealth" strategy and the establishment of a combined enterprise and financial development model, which has helped the Group to take one step closer to becoming a diversified international finance holding group.

Mr. CHANG Tat Joel, Mason Group's Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, commented "After a series of acquisitions, the Group has seen encouraging results in terms of synergy and effectiveness from its newly integrated "Health + Wealth" business operations. During the first half of 2018, Mason Group established Mason Healthcare Group Limited ("Mason Healthcare Group"), Hong Kong's largest and Asia's leading IVF and biotechnology platform, which marked a milestone in the premium medical services market in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, it strived to strengthen its global financial ecosystem, with the successful acquisitions of Raiffeisen Privatbank Liechtenstein AG ("RPL") and Harris Fraser Group ("HFG"), a renowned wealth management company in Hong Kong, which further expanded its global footprint and realized the Group's vision to build a comprehensive global financial platform."

During the Period, Mason Group actively established its healthcare and financial operations. In terms of the healthcare business, it capitalized on growing market demand for assisted reproduction services in Asia, with the Group merging two assisted reproduction giants in Hong Kong to establish Reproductive Healthcare Group Limited ("RHG"), one of Hong Kong's largest IVF medical platforms. RHG provides a comprehensive range of IVF medical services, including intra -uterine insemination, in-vitro fertilization/test tube babies, frozen-thawed embryo transfers and egg freezing services, with approximately 30% market share in Hong Kong's assisted reproduction market. We Doctor Holdings Limited, a leading Chinese technology-enabled medical and healthcare solutions platform, has been introduced as a strategic investor in RHG, an important partnership that will support the Group's expansion into China's IVF market.

Furthermore, another subsidiary of Mason Group, Pangenia Holdings Limited ("Pangenia") primarily provides testing services, including women's health, prenatal and early cancer screening. Hence together with RHG, Mason Healthcare Group has a total of 3 IVF clinics, 4 laboratories, with more than 100 specialists and life science specialists. During the Period, the premium medical platform generated approximately HK$157.9 million in profit, up 745.93% year-on-year, of which HK$140 million is gain on disposal of interests in RHG, the profits of RHG and Pangenia excluding the gain on disposal is HK$17 million.

In terms of the mother-infant-child consumer retail platform, the Group has successfully formed an integrated ecosystem of upstream and downstream manufacturing, distribution and sales channels of mother-infant-child related products. The Group's Aiyangdao Zhuhai Business Chain Limited ("AYD"), a leading mother-infant-child products franchisor in China, and Blend and Pack Pty. Ltd. ("Blend & Pack"), an Australian infant formula and nutritional products manufacturer, maintained strong growth momentum. As at 30 June 2018, AYD had a regional network of 1,148 direct and franchise stores and 5,929 partner stores. The number of AYD franchise stores in Southern and Eastern China has been increasing, and has enhanced its brand awareness. According to the Nielsen report, AYD's brand recognition in the country has reached 29.3%. During the Period, the Group's mother-infant-child consumer retail platform generated approximately HK$1,611.71 million in revenue, up 46.65% year-on-year, and a profit of approximately HK$71.94 million, up 27.33% year-on-year.

In terms of its financial services platform, the successful acquisitions of RPL and HFG have added new service capabilities to the Group's financial platform. RPL has added deposit taking services, custody services and trust function capabilities, while HFG has added investment advisory services. These capabilities will enable the sale and distribution of a diverse range of products to clients in Asia and Europe, thus strengthening the competitiveness of the Group's financial platform. During the Period, the financial services platform recorded an increased operating income of about 60.64% to approximately HK$147.93 million, and recorded a turnaround in profit reaching HK$37.41 million. The Group's Assets Under Management ("AUM") amounted to HK$9,064 million as at end of June 2018.

Looking ahead, the Chinese government's two major initiatives - the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Belt and Road Initiative - have both unleashed vast opportunities for Hong Kong. Leveraging the strengths of its financial and biotechnology platforms, the Group will grasp the demand for financial and premium medical services in the Greater Bay Area and even the Asia Pacific region. Meanwhile, its financial services platform will integrate RPL and HFG into the Group's financial platform, broaden product range, increase service offerings, widen client base, as well as expand wealth management capabilities to achieve AUM growth. In terms of the healthcare business, the Group intends to serve the health management organization ("HMO") in Greater Bay Area to align with relevant government policies. The Group is also planning to set up a research center for assisted reproductive and genetic testing technology. The Group is seeking acquisition targets in the Asia Pacific region, including investment managers and asset management companies in Korea, Taiwan and Singapore as part of its growth strategy.

Mr. KO Po Ming, Executive Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mason Group, concluded "Mason Group's wide-ranging strengths have greatly improved within two years, laying a foundation for development in the long run. From set-up to integration, the two major businesses have begun to enter the strategic development stage, and more importantly, the Group is on the right track. The Group will continue to adhere to its "Health + Wealth" growth strategy to facilitate synergy across financial, premium medical and mother-infant-child consumer retail platforms on a global scale. The management is confident that the Group will continue to grow and develop in the future, creating value for the Group's shareholders and providing substantial returns."

About Mason Group Holdings Limited
Mason Group Holdings Limited (stock code: 273.HK) is a health and wealth solutions service conglomerate. It principally provides comprehensive financial services in Hong Kong, including financial brokerage services, leveraged and acquisition financing, asset and wealth management services and mortgages business. In addition, the Group provides innovative health solutions through its healthcare business, mother-infant-child business, and dairy products manufacturing business. Leveraging its "Health + Wealth" strategy, the healthcare business provides steady capital and a client base resource that support the rapid development of the Group's financial services business. For more information, please visit: http://www.masonhk.com

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

BaseLayer launches Japan Branch Support Services (JBSS) to Launch and Promote Global Blockchain Projects in Japan

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TOKYO, Aug 27, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - BaseLayer, Inc. (Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Hitoshi Kisou) has launched Japan Branch Support Services (JBSS) to help overseas blockchain-based projects to promote their service in Japan.

From market entry to promotion, we aim for the fastest penetration with blockchain.
Cryptocurrencies are becoming the new infrastructure for payments, and many projects have released new tokens to the market. Within that ecosystem, Ethereum is one of the most exciting and promising projects. As a revolutionary platform for trading securities and digitalizing debts, Ethereum has gained a lot of attention.

JBSS mainly supports overseas projects by providing services such as promotion, branding, and translations into Japanese. BaseLayer has provided our services to numerous projects including BlockMason and have received positive feedback regarding the speed and quality of our execution, ranging from assisting market entry to hosting real events (meet-ups). BaseLayer has packaged JBSS services and will further help overseas projects reach their full potential in Japan.

Content of JBSS Services

1: Japan branch website: Translate the project's official website into Japanese
2: Website management: Translate announcements and releases into Japanese, and discuss which documents should be translated with the project entity.
3: Translation of white papers: Translate white papers for the Japanese audience to enhance understanding of the project, and make them downloadable from the official website.
4: Campaign Site with affiliate system: Create a campaign website that will funnel users to the official community (e.g., LINE and Telegram) and other official social media websites (e.g., Twitter). Projects will have the option to pay the affiliates in their tokens, ETH, or other cryptocurrencies.
5: Official Japanese community management: Create an official Japanese community (LINE and Telegram), cooperate with the official English community, and release information. Translate articles on the project's website and release them via the official Japanese community. This enhances understanding of the project and thus loyalty to the project as well. Respond to various inquiries regarding the projects, tokens and more.
6: Official SNS management: Set up and manage official Japanese social media accounts (Twitter and Facebook page). Release information in conjunction with event and service press releases to increase the number of community members.
7: PR: Propose and execute effective PR strategies as a one-stop service. Propose operations that will increase appearances on TV, magazines, and web media. External partners will also assist with increasing project awareness. Promotion PR - Increase project brand recognition with branding PR that aims for maximum performance at low cost.
8: Airdrop: Support client's airdrop execution.
9: Buzz marketing: Influencers on social media channels will spread information and create excitement in threads. This will increase the number of followers who understand the project's mission, vision, and how it works, which will convert the m into true fans of the project.

Community management utilizing Telegram and LINE
Telegram is a communication tool necessary for anyone who is interested in cryptocurrencies. In the cryptocurrency industry, it is often used by projects to communicate their updates, and there are reportedly over 100 million users worldwide. JBSS will create an official Japanese community (Telegram), and in conjunction with the English community, release information regarding the project to deepen understanding. Furthermore, we will respond to various inquiries regarding the project, token and more in a timely manner, which will result in increased customer loyalty to the project.

LINE is the most common and influential communication tool in Japan. The number of active users is over 73 million. We broadcast information about clients such as project updates, partnership news and so on.

About BaseLayer Inc.
BaseLayer supports Ethereum Japan and will contribute to expanding awareness of Ethereum.
BaseLayer provides PR, marketing, and community management in the Japanese market as a one-stop service for overseas Ethereum projects.

Contact:
BaseLayer Inc.
Hitoshi Kisou, CEO
E: pr@baselayer.asia
U: https://en.baselayer.asia/
T: +81-3-5775-1313


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

Luxury Hotel 'Anshin Oyado', for the True Hot Spring Experience

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'The Next-Generation Capsule Hotel' Anshin Oyado, Kyoto Shijo Karasuma: www.anshin-oyado.jp/kyoto/
Luxury Hotel Anshin Oyado, for the true hot spring experience.
- A problem facing the rapidly growing inbound FIT segment? 56% of hot springs refuse service to people with tattoos
- With the number of visitors to Japan set to double for the Tokyo Olympics, cultural understanding is needed


Kyoto, Japan, Aug 28, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - The rapid growth of tourism in Japan in recent years, particularly among the FIT (free independent traveler) segment, has served to highlight the issue of restrictions on hot spring use that have been placed upon people with tattoos. To address this problem, Anshin Oyado, the 'Next-Generation Capsule Hotel' operated by Shinjuku, Tokyo-based Sanza Co., Ltd. (CEO: Katsuro Ogino), has extended its services to people with tattoos at all of its locations. At Anshin Oyado's Kyoto Shijo Karasuma location, which opened in April 2018, anyone, including visitors to Japan from abroad, Japanese tattoo enthusiasts, women and children can enjoy the hot spring experience.

- 56% of hot springs refuse service to people with tattoos; the inbound tourism industry needs to welcome all cultures

According to a survey of approximately 3,700 hot spring facilities across Japan carried out by the country's Ministry of Environment (June 2016), 56 percent of the facilities that responded said they refuse service to people with tattoos interested in bathing. The reason for this appears to be the continued practice of such decisions being made according to the opinions of facility management, which may include stereotypes toward tattoos, such as their association with organized crime.

However, the Japanese government released a statement on February 21, 2017,stating that individuals shall not be denied access to public bathhouses solely on the grounds of the presence of tattoos, which shows signs of improvement are appearing. It is clear that with events including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the number of foreign athletes and tourists in the country will double. So, there is an urgent need to secure a system for receiving these visitors, especially one that would lead to greater cultural understanding.*

- Anshin Oyado's Kyoto Shijo Karasuma location offers the hot spring experience to inbound FITs (free independent travelers) and families

The hot spring experience is one of the uniquely Japanese activities that fascinate travelers from abroad. In order to help visitors enjoy this experience, Anshin Oyado welcomes guests with tattoos at all of its locations. The Kyoto Shijo Karasuma location opened in April 2018 and is close to popular tourist attractions. At this location, Anshin Oyado is actively working to meet the needs of FITs (free independent travelers) and families, two segments that are growing rapidly, even by the standards of the booming inbound tourism industry.

In terms of hot springs, this location offers the Shijo Karasuma Hot Spring, which is a large public bath, as well as a stone sauna, a hot mist sauna and cold baths. With these facilities, the Firefly Open Air Bath, which features highly carbonated spring water and LED lighting, and more, the hotel boasts bathing facilities considered to have beneficial effects for people who experience neuralgia, rheumatism, lower back pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to cold. This is a place where guests can fully refresh even after long walks that are a common part of sightseeing.

Under the concept of "Next-Generation Capsule Hotel," Anshin Oyado is reshaping the old image of the capsule hotel. Here is a new-style place designed primarily for 'staying in' in pursuit of new forms of entertainment value.

* Guests with tattoos are welcome at this hotel, however entry is strictly denied to those members and associates with criminal organizations, and anyone whose behavior inconveniences other guests.
* Source: Ministry of Environment

Hotel Details
- Luxury Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado, Premier Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
- 239-1 Shinmeicho, Ayanokojidori Higashinotoin-dori-Higashi-iru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
- Telephone - Toll-free: 0120-083-554 / Outside Japan: +81-75-354-7716
- https://www.anshin-oyado.jp/kyoto/

Contact:
Baynich Co.,Ltd. for Sanza Co., Ltd.
Fukuzawa, newtonpr@baynich.jp
Public Relations Department
Telephone: +81-3-6447-4440, Fax: +81-3-6447-4442


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

Eisai: Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes Data for Anti-Obesity Agent BELVIQ

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Presented at The European Society of Cardiology and Published in the New England Journal of Medicine

TOKYO, Aug 28, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - The average change in weight from baseline was -4.2 kg with BELVIQ and -1.4 kg with placebo, translating to a 2.8 kg greater net weight loss with BELVIQ (nominal p-value
Furthermore, treatment with BELVIQ (for a period of one year), on top of standard of care for the respective comorbid conditions in CAMELLIA-TIMI 61, was associated with statistically significant improvements in systolic blood pressure (placebo-subtracted difference -0.9 mm Hg), diastolic blood pressure (-0.8 mm Hg), heart rate (-1.0 beat per minute), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-1.2 mg/dL), triglycerides (-11.7 mg/dL) and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-2.6 mg/dL).

BELVIQ also reduced hemoglobin A1C (HBA1c) in patients with T2DM at baseline (placebo-subtracted difference -0.3%) and reduced the rate of new onset diabetes in patients with pre-diabetes at baseline (3.1%/year with BELVIQ versus 3.8%/year with placebo).

No significant differences were seen in the overall incidence of serious adverse events between BELVIQ and placebo (31% vs. 32%), and the overall safety profile for BELVIQ in CAMELLIA-TIMI 61 was consistent with that of the approved label. Dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea and diarrhea were the most commonly reported adverse events in CAMELLIA-TIMI 61. Adverse events possibly leading to study discontinuation were more frequent with BELVIQ versus placebo (7.2% vs. 3.7%), with the most commonly reported adverse events in this category for BELVIQ being dizziness, fatigue, headache, diarrhea and nausea.

Further results of analyses of the study will be presented on October 4 at the European Association for Study of Diabetes (EASD) Annual Meeting held in Berlin, Germany.

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.

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

Discovered and developed by Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Headquarters: California, United States, President and CEO: Amit D. Munshi), 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 was the largest 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 The New England Journal of Medicine

The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) is the world's leading medical journal and website, published continuously for over 200 years. NEJM has the highest Journal Impact Factor of all general medical journals (2017 Journal Citation Reports, Clarivate Analytics, 2018).

About Eisai

Eisai Co., Ltd. is a leading global research and development-based pharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan. We define our corporate mission as "giving first thought to patients and their families and to increasing the benefits health care provides," which we call our human health care (hhc) philosophy. With approximately 10,000 employees working across our global network of R&D facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to realize our hhc philosophy by delivering innovative products in various therapeutic areas with high unmet medical needs, including Oncology and Neurology.

As a global pharmaceutical company, our mission extends to patients around the world through our investment and participation in partnership-based initiatives to improve access to medicines in developing and emerging countries.

For more information about Eisai Co., Ltd., please visit https://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

AISIN and DENSO Reach Basic Agreement to Establish a Joint Venture to Develop Electrification Driving Modules

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KARIYA, JAPAN, Aug 28, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd and DENSO Corporation have reached a basic agreement to establish a new joint venture company to develop and sell electrification driving modules. The company will be capitalized with the participation ratio of AISIN 50% and DENSO 50%.

The automotive industry is in an era of profound transformation, particularly in technologies for electrification, automated driving and connected driving. Electrification is one of the key disrupters impacting the automotive industry. Companies need to accelerate the development of technologies that meet the needs of auto makers and consumers and help maintain a sustainable society free from environment problems such as global warming, atmospheric pollution and resource and energy problems.

Electrification requires a driving module package that integrates key components, such as transaxles, motor generators and inverters. This joint venture will develop and sell driving modules customized to meet performance, cost and regional requirements.

AISIN and DENSO will focus on driving modules for hybrids, plug in hybrids, fuel cell vehicles and electric vehicles, especially in China where the market for electric vehicles is expected to rapidly expand.

Details are still being discussed and the plan is for the new company to launch in March 2019. The collaboration of two companies will support their commitment to maintain sustainable society.

About Denso

DENSO Corp., headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan has more than 220 subsidiaries in 35 countries and regions (including Japan) and employs approximately 170,000 people worldwide. Consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018, totaled US$48.1 billion. Last fiscal year, DENSO spent 8.8% of its global consolidated sales on research and development. DENSO common stock is traded on the Tokyo and Nagoya stock exchanges.

For more information, go to www.denso.com.

Visit our media website at www.denso.com/global/en/news/media-center/.

Contact:
DENSO CORPORATION Phone: 81-566-25-5594 Fax: 81-566-25-4509

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

AISIN, ADVICS, JTEKT and DENSO Reach Basic Agreement to Establish Joint Venture to Develop Integrated ECU Software for Automated Driving

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KARIYA, JAPAN, Aug 28, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd, ADVICS Co., Ltd., JTEKT Corporation and DENSO Corporation announced that the four companies have reached a basic agreement to establish a joint venture company to develop integrated ECU software for automated driving and vehicle dynamics control. The company will be capitalized with the participation ratio of DENSO 65%, AISIN 25%, ADVICS 5% and JTEKT 5%.

The automotive industry is in an era of profound transformation, particularly in technologies for electrification, automated driving and connected driving. In the field of automated driving and vehicle dynamics control, greater acceleration in technology development is needed to support the development of future mobility solutions that will revolutionize how society moves.

The integrated ECU manages components, such as sensors, brakes, and steering, which are basic driving functions and critical for automated driving. Through this joint company, DENSO, AISIN, ADVICS and JTEKT will focus on expediting the development of more sophisticated software required for larger and more complex integrated ECUs.

The four companies bring unique strengths to this endeavor and will work together to develop and provide software for integrated ECUs which best fit each car makers' needs.

Details are still being discussed and the plan is for the new company to launch in March 2019. The collaboration of the four companies will support their commitment to deliver safe and secure mobility for all.

About Denso

DENSO Corp., headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan has more than 220 subsidiaries in 35 countries and regions (including Japan) and employs approximately 170,000 people worldwide. Consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018, totaled US$48.1 billion. Last fiscal year, DENSO spent 8.8% of its global consolidated sales on research and development. DENSO common stock is traded on the Tokyo and Nagoya stock exchanges.

For more information, go to www.denso.com.

Visit our media website at www.denso.com/global/en/news/media-center/.

Contact:
DENSO CORPORATION Phone: 81-566-25-5594 Fax: 81-566-25-4509

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

Micro-Mechanics Delivers Record Results for FY2018

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- Net profit rose 16.1% to S$17.1 million on revenue growth of 13.8% to S$65.1 million
- Sound balance sheet with cash of S$21.1 million and zero debt
- Proposes final dividend of 5 cents per share and special dividend of 1 cent per share
- Raises total dividends to 10 cents per share for FY2018 from 8 cents per share in FY2017

SINGAPORE, Aug 28, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Micro-Mechanics (Holdings) Ltd. ("Micro-Mechanics", SGX:5DD), a manufacturer of high precision tools and parts used in process-critical applications for the semiconductor industry, has reported a record performance for its financial year ended 30 June 2018 ("FY2018") as the Group's net profit improved 16.1% to S$17.1 million on the back of 13.8% growth in revenue to S$65.1 million.

In line with its long-held practice of rewarding shareholders, Micro-Mechanics is proposing a final dividend of 5 cents per share and a special dividend of 1 cent per share to be paid on 20 November 2018. This will raise its total dividend payout for FY2018 to 10 cents per share, from 8 cents for FY2017.

CEO of Micro-Mechanics, Mr Chris Borch said, "The Group witnessed higher sales in our major geographical markets during FY2018, particularly in China, the USA and Philippines. As China continues to develop into a major center for global chip manufacturing, the Group remains focused on strengthening the operations in Suzhou to ensure fast, effective and local support to our customers. As a result of these efforts, we have benefited from multi-year sales growth in China."

In FY2018, sales in China increased 21% to S$18.0 million to remain as the Group's largest market with 27% of revenue. Sales in the USA increased 33% to S$12.2 million. At 19% of Group revenue, the USA has overtaken Malaysia's contribution of 18% to become the Group's second-largest market.

Although the chip industry has continued growing strongly into 2018 with worldwide sales up 20.4% in the first six months, the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics expects the industry's growth to moderate to about 12.4% for all of 2018, implying a much slower rate of 4% to 5% in the second half of the year.

"As such cyclicality is typical for the semiconductor industry, our approach is to focus on its long term trends and not to get preoccupied by short-term variations. We continue to believe the semiconductor industry is poised for a prolonged period of solid growth as chips are becoming increasingly embedded in nearly every aspect of modern life, from today's smart phones to tomorrow's driverless cars. Hence, the key to the Group's success lies in our continuing ability to seize long-term opportunities and correctly identify the initiatives and investments that bring value to our customers," said Mr Borch.

As at 30 June 2018, Micro-Mechanics had a sound financial position with total assets of S$73.3 million, shareholders' equity of S$60.3 million, cash and cash equivalents of S$21.1 million and no bank borrowings.

This news release should be read in conjunction with the Group's financial statements posted on the SGX website on 25 August 2018.

About Micro-Mechanics

Micro-Mechanics designs, manufactures and markets high precision tools and parts used in process-critical applications for the wafer-fabrication and assembly processes of the semiconductor industry.

The Group serves a worldwide base of customers from five manufacturing facilities located in Singapore, Malaysia, China, the Philippines and the USA, and a direct sales presence in Taiwan and Europe. Micro-Mechanics' strategy is to relentlessly pursue product and operational improvements while providing fast, effective and local support to its customers worldwide.

In addition to designing and manufacturing a market-leading range of consumable tools and parts used in the assembly and testing of semiconductors, the Group also engages in the contract manufacturing of precision parts and tools used in process-critical applications for the semiconductor wafer-fabrication industry.

Since listing on the Singapore Exchange in June 2003, Micro-Mechanics has won over 25 awards in recognition of its high standards of corporate governance, quality of disclosure, transparency and investor relations. For more information, please visit the Group's website at www.micro-mechanics.com

MEDIA AND INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
OCTANT CONSULTING
phone +65 62963583
Herman Phua | mobile +65 9664 7582 | email herman@octant.com.sg
Lisa Heng | mobile +65 9090 9887 | email lisa@octant.com.sg

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

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and MHPS Sign Collaboration Framework Agreement with CHI Dalian on Manufacturing and Marketing of Rectangular SOx Scrubbers

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Rectangular SOx Scrubber
- Provides one-stop service for design, manufacture and onboard installation
- World's first marine scrubber of rectangular shape for ships, realizing space saving essential for onboard installations

YOKOHAMA, Japan, Aug 28, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd. (MHPS) signed a collaboration framework agreement with COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (Dalian) Co., Ltd. (CHI Dalian) - one of group companies of COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. (CHI), a state-owned Chinese shipbuilder based in Shanghai - on manufacturing and marketing rectangular sulfur-oxide (SOx) scrubbers. The scrubber which was developed by those two MHI Group companies features a rectangular shape that realizes superior space saving essential for onboard installations.

Based on the newly signed collaborative framework agreement, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and MHPS with CHI Dalian will start providing the rectangular scrubber of high reliability in all processes from design and manufacture to installation onboard, so that the collaborative relationship will contribute to customer convenience.

The rectangular SOx scrubber was developed for marine use by combining MHPS' comprehensive exhaust gas treatment technologies, cultivated through its exhaust gas desulfurization systems for thermal power plants, with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding's marine engineering expertise. By installing the desulfurization system, with its strong track record, efficiently within the limited space available on a ship, the amount of SO2 contained in the vessel's exhaust gas when using conventional 3.5% sulfur-content fuel can be reduced to a level that conforms to the new emissions regulations coming into effect worldwide in 2020.

Under the agreement, CHI Dalian will manufacture, assemble and deliver the SOx scrubbers and install them on ships. Among the various companies under the COSCO Group - owner / operator of the world's biggest fleet - CHI is China's largest shiprepair yards and CHI Dalian has been especially gained a high reputation in the industry with its marine and offshore products.
Going forward, through their close ties with CHI Dalian, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and MHPS will ramp up sales activities of the space-saving, high-reliability rectangular scrubbers.

About Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd.

Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd. (MHPS) was formed on February 1 2014, integrating the thermal power generation systems businesses of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and Hitachi, Ltd. in a quest to further enhance their social response capabilities in all respects. These include the technological strength to create new products of outstanding quality and reliability, the comprehensive strength in engineering to oversee projects in regions across the globe, and finely honed sales and after-sale servicing capabilities. MHPS aims to come out a winner in global competition and achieve a solid position as a world leader in thermal power generation systems and environmental technologies. For more information, please visit www.mhps.com.

Contact:
Corporate Communication Department Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Email: mediacontact_global@mhi.co.jp Tel: +81-(0)3-6716-2168 Fax: +81-(0)3-6716-5860

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

Final Board Approval from POSCO and Binding Agreement Executed to Sell Northern Package of Tenements at Sal De Vida

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Figure 1 - Map of Salar del Hombre Muerto tenements to be sold (blue area) and tenements to be retained (red area) by Galaxy
From left to right: Mr Anthony Tse, Mr Martin Rowley, Mr Seong Yu and Dr Hyeon Park
HONG KONG, Aug 28, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Galaxy Resources Limited ("Galaxy"; ASX: GXY) is pleased to announce that it has executed binding definitive documentation with POSCO for the sale of a package of tenements located on the northern portion of the Salar del Hombre Muerto in the northwest region of Argentina, for a cash consideration of US$280 million. This consideration will be paid to Galaxy upon completion of the relevant tenement transfer and registration procedures in Argentina. The tenements the subject of the transaction are listed below.

Highlights
- Binding agreement executed with POSCO to sell a package of tenements on the northern basin of Salar del Hombre Muerto for cash consideration of US$280 million
- Galaxy will retain its 100% interest in all the remaining Sal de Vida Project tenements in Catamarca Province
- Net proceeds from the transaction to be used to advance the development of the Sal de Vida Project
- Transaction expected to settle by Q4 2018 upon completion of the relevant tenement transfer and registration procedures in Argentina

The sale tenement package is situated to the north of Galaxy's world class Sal de Vida Project ("Sal de Vida" or the "Project") in Argentina (see figure 1). Galaxy will continue to retain a 100% interest in the tenements on the southern area of the Salar del Hombre Muerto, located in Catamarca Province, which are included in the updated feasibility study for Sal de Vida (refer to announcement dated 15 May 2018).

In addition, Galaxy and POSCO will continue to explore potential cooperation to maximize future development and operational synergies for their respective projects on the Salar del Hombre Muerto, Completion of the transaction is expected by Q4 2018, following finalization of the necessary procedures to affect the transfer and registration of the relevant tenement package. The net cash proceeds from the transaction will be used towards advancing the development of the Sal de Vida Project. Galaxy, with the assistance of J.P. Morgan, is progressing the evaluation of strategic partners for the development of the Sal de Vida Project. The Company will be providing further updates to the market on the JP Morgan process in the near future.

Chairman of Galaxy, Martin Rowley commented that "This transaction with POSCO underlines the significant previously unrecognized value of Galaxy's tenements on the Salar del Hombre Muerto and provides a substantial cash injection which underwrites the development of the Sal de Vida lithium brine project. This transaction provides Galaxy maximum flexibility for the parallel process being led by J.P. Morgan, to evaluate and consider options for strategic partners for the development of Sal de Vida.

"We are very pleased to have developed what we see as a mutually beneficial relationship with POSCO with this transaction and look forward to close co-operation with POSCO on our respective projects. This transaction is also economically significant as it means there are well advanced plans for two lithium projects to be developed concurrently on the Salar del Hombre Muerto spanning across both Catamarca and Salta Provinces, which carries obvious benefits for all stakeholders in both regions in Argentina"

J.P. Morgan acted as financial advisor to Galaxy for this transaction.

For more information, please contact:
Corporate
Nick Rowley
Director - Corporate Development
+61 455 466 476
+61 (8) 9215 1700
nick.rowley@galaxylithium.com

Media Enquiries (Australia)
Nigel Kassulke
Cannings Corporate Communications
+61 407 904 874 or +61 (2) 8284 9990
nkassulke@cannings.net.au

Media Enquiries (International)
Heidi So
Strategic Financial Relations Ltd
+852 2864 4826
heidi.so@sprg.com.hk

About Galaxy (ASX: GXY)
Galaxy Resources Limited ("Galaxy") is an international S&P / ASX 200 Index company with lithium production facilities, hard rock mines and brine assets in Australia, Canada and Argentina. It wholly owns and operates the Mt Cattlin mine in Ravensthorpe Western Australia, which is currently producing spodumene and tantalum concentrate, and the James Bay lithium pegmatite project in Quebec, Canada.

Galaxy is advancing plans to develop the Sal de Vida lithium and potash brine project in Argentina situated in the lithium triangle (where Chile, Argentina and Bolivia meet), which is currently the source of 60% of global lithium production. Sal de Vida has excellent potential as a low-cost brine-based lithium carbonate production facility.

Lithium compounds are used in the manufacture of ceramics, glass, and consumer electronics and are an essential cathode material for long life lithium-ion batteries used in hybrid and electric vehicles, as well as mass energy storage systems. Galaxy is bullish about the global lithium demand outlook and is aiming to become a major producer of lithium products.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This document contains forward-looking statements concerning Galaxy.
Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact and actual events and results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements because of a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking information provided by the Company, or on behalf of, the Company. Such factors include, among other things, risks relating to additional funding requirements, metal prices, exploration, development and operating risks, competition, production risks, regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulation and liability and potential title disputes.

Forward looking statements in this document are based on Galaxy's beliefs, opinions and estimates of Galaxy as of the dates the forward- looking statements are made, and no obligation is assumed to update forward looking statements if these beliefs, opinions and estimates should change or to reflect other future developments.

Not For Release in the US
This announcement has been prepared for publication in Australia and may not be released in the United States of America. This announcement does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in any jurisdiction, including the United States, and any securities described in this announcement may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the issuer and that will contain detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements.


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

China Wood Optimization Announces 2018 Interim Results

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Significant Improvement in Sales of Processed Wood Products;
Continues to Develop Wood Processing Procedure Service

HONG KONG, Aug 28, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - China Wood Optimization (Holding) Limited ("China Wood Optimization" or the "Group," HKEX stock code: 1885), an advanced new technology group engaged in self-developed Wood Processing Procedure Service as well as the sale of its self-produced less-shaved Processed Wood Panels, has announced its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 (the "review period").

During the review period, the Group's revenue increased 12.5% year-on-year to RMB117.6 million. The increase was mainly attributable to a rise in sales of its less-shaved Processed Wood Panels, as certain raw poplar wood panel suppliers that some of the Group's customers had purchased materials from closed operations or relocated due to non-compliance with the Air Pollution Control Work Plan. As a result, these customers were unable to purchase adequate raw poplar wood panels and need to fill their shortfalls by purchasing less-shaved Processed Wood Panels from the Group.

Gross profit and profit for the period amounted to RMB56.4 million and RMB24.8 million respectively. Overall gross profit margin of the Group adjusted downwards to 48.0% in 1H2018 (1H2017: 66.0%) due to an increase in sales of less-shaved Processed Wood Panels during the review period, which yield a much lower gross profit margin at 25.6% compared with a 70.7% gross profit margin for providing Wood Processing Procedure Service.

Business review
Processed Wood Products (Less-shaved Processed Wood Panels)
The Group produces less-shaved Processed Wood Panels, which are poplar wood panels that undergo the Group's Wood Processing Procedure and then shaved, sanded and trimmed into strips according to customers' requirements. These processed wood panels are generally used to produce floor planks, doors and furniture.

Revenue from the sale of less-shaved Processed Wood Panels rose significantly by 453.3% to approximately RMB59.2 million, and accounted for 50.3% of the Group's total revenue during the review period. Despite a lower gross profit margin, this segment was able to yield an increase in gross profit margin to about 25.6%, up by 1.3 percentage points, due to a rise in average selling price to RMB3,605/m3.

Wood Processing Procedure Service
The Group also provides a self-developed and competitively priced Wood Processing Procedure Service that uses its self-developed and patented impregnation fluid. During this procedure, the properties of raw wood panels provided by customers are significantly improved. Both the impregnation fluid and the procedure are core technologies of the Group and are difficult to replicate in a short time. Furthermore, they can yield a high gross profit margin due to shorter production cycle and lower production cost than producing less-shaved Processed Wood Panels.

Mainly due to the Air Pollution Control Work Plan, which caused a drop in total amount of raw poplar wood panels purchased from some of the customers for the Group to perform its Wood Processing Procedure, revenue contribution from this segment declined 37.7% to RMB58.4 million (1H2017: RMB93.8 million), which accounted for 49.7% of the Group's total revenue. Despite the smaller sales volume during the review period, the Group was able to charge a slightly higher average processing fee of about RMB1,887 per ton of impregnation fluid used.

Recent Development
In order to comply with the Air Pollution Control Work Plan, the Group temporary ceased operation of its coal-fired boiler at its Handan Factory in Hebei Province in the PRC in the second half of 2017. However, the Group and the local government of Handan City reached a conclusion whereby the local government would assist in the construction of a natural gas pipeline for use by the Handan Factory and support the Group in the construction of a new natural gas boiler that would comply with the Air Pollution Control Work Plan. The Group expects to complete construction of the natural gas boiler and resume operation of the Handan Factory by the end of 2018 if the natural gas supply is stable.

In 2018, the Group was awarded the "2017 State Science and Technology Improvement Award" (Second Class) in respect of material modification and functionalization technology based on modification of wood cell, as well as the "High and New Technology Enterprise Certificate" which allows the Group to enjoy preferential taxation until 2019. Both achievements represent important milestones and acknowledgment of the Group's influence and market leadership in the wood optimisation industry.

Outlook
In the future, China Wood will continue to increase market recognition of its less-shaved Processed Wood Panels and focus on providing Wood Processing Procedure Service to customers in the PRC. By focusing on rendering its Wood Processing Procedure Service, the Group will be able to yield a higher gross profit margin with its core technologies, and reveal its intrinsic value. Furthermore, the Group will be able to reduce the need for production facilities and fully utilize its processing capacity.

Ms. Yim Tsun, Chairlady of China Wood Optimization, said, "We are pleased that the industry has become more environmentally conscious and are looking for ways to protect and build a more sustainable business ecosystem. This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission to become an environmental friendly enterprise. Being an important member of the wood optimization industry, we are taking the lead in this respect. On a separate note, China Wood will continue to promote and enhance market recognition of its less-shaved Processed Wood Panels, while at the same time further develop its Wood Processing Procedure Service and impregnation fluids by employing more R&D specialists. In this way, the Group will be able to satisfy the strong demand for competitively priced high-quality wood panels in China. We will also strive to capture greater market share so that ultimately, the Group can deliver better mid- to long-term returns to our shareholders and customers."

About China Wood Optimization (Holding) Limited (stock code: 1885)
The Group is principally engaged in providing a Wood Processing Procedure Service for customers with its self-developed impregnation fluid and wood processing procedure, as well as the sales of its self-produced less-shaved Processed Wood Panels. The Group's wood processing procedure can improve the hardness, shrinkage and swelling rate, density, deformation resistance, cracking resistance, anti-corrosiveness, bending strength and elasticity of poplar wood. Its processed wood products can be used as substitutes of natural solid woods. The Group's products are widely used to make furniture and indoor furnishing materials. Customers of the Group mainly include manufacturers of furniture, doors and window frames and wholesalers of wooden panels. For details, please refer to http://www.chinawood.com.hk/

Media Enquiry:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Veron Ng +852 2864 4831 veron.ng@sprg.com.hk
Jessica Siu +852 2114 2820 jessica.siu@sprg.com.hk
www.sprg.com.hk


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

Steve Leung Design Group Announces First Interim Results since Listing

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Revenue and Net Profit Increases by 25.8% and 21.7% Respectively

HONG KONG, Aug 28, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Steve Leung Design Group Limited ("SLD Group" or the "Group"; HKEX stock code: 2262), an award-winning and internationally renowned interior design services and interior decorating and furnishing services provider headquartered in Hong Kong, today announced its first interim results, for the six months ended 30 June 2018 ("Period"), since its listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK") on 5 July 2018.

During the Period, the Group recorded year-on-year revenue growth of 25.8% to HK$223.5 million and gross profit up by 19.3% year-on-year to HK$107.6 million. Such encouraging results were mainly driven by the prompt conversion of projects on hand to revenue, as well as the significant growth of the Group's interior decorating and furnishing services business segment. Net profit for the Period amounted to HK$25.2 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 21.7%.

Business Review
The Group's satisfactory performance can be attributed to its ability to leverage its award-winning and internationally renowned interior design services to expand its business and clientele. While achieving both objectives, the Group placed particular focus on high-end residential, private residence and hospitality projects in the PRC, Hong Kong and overseas markets. The Group will also leverage its clientele to explore new business opportunities in the second and third tier cities in the PRC.

Apart from interior design projects, the Group continued to broaden its interior decorating and furnishing services business, resulting in steady business growth. Both the interior design and interior decorating and furnishing services businesses thus constitute key pillars of the Group.

Interior Design Services
The interior design services segment remained the primary business and main revenue source of the Group, accounting for over 82.7% of total revenue. Despite unfavourable market conditions, including a slowdown in the PRC real estate market, the interior design services business managed to perform at a similar level to last year. Furthermore, with the Group's ability to appeal to its clients by adding value to their properties, including among the major property developers in the PRC, such widespread recognition has also contributed to the stable performance of the interior design services business.

Interior Decorating and Furnishing Services
The interior decorating and furnishing services business commenced operation in 2016, and has achieved notable growth during the past two years. During the Period, the segment accounted for approximately 16.1% of its total revenue, and achieved year-on-year top line growth of 98.7%. The noteworthy performance was attributable to a large number of contracts signed both prior to and during the Period, as well as clients choosing to employ the Group based on its ability to provide a comprehensive scope of services that includes both interior design and decorating and furnishing services.

Product Design Services
Another important facet of the Group's operation is product design services, an area of activity resulting from its business and service diversification drive. During the Period, the segment continued to perform steadily, delivering satisfactory returns to the Group. Moving forward, the Group will continue to collaborate with internationally renowned brands for product designs including furniture, bathrooms, kitchens and home accessories, etc.

Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Group will maintain focus on developing its three principle business segments, which will involve diversifying their revenue sources, thus also minimise the impact of possible risk on the Group. Aside from focusing on residential and hospitality projects, the Group intends to place greater effort on developing specialised interior design and decorating services, particularly for the elderly, wellness, advanced technologies and environment-related sectors.

According to Frost & Sullivan report, the market size of specialised interior design and decorating services in the PRC will grow steadily at a CAGR of 8.2%; while in Hong Kong, driven by projects from the public sector initiated by the Urban Renewal Strategy as well as the growing need for infrastructure upgrades, the market will grow robustly at a CAGR of 7.8%. The Group is well-poised to capture these opportunities.

The Group will also implement a series of measures to ensure sufficient resources to support its day-to-day business operation. Such measures include expanding its interior design, interior decorating and furnishing, and product design teams, developing their specialisations, broadening and diversifying the furniture, fittings and accessories catalogue and enlarging headquarters and offices. In addition, greater resources will be allocated for maintaining and developing information technology systems. Also, efforts will be placed on devising and implementing marketing strategies, and participating in more industry-related exhibitions, forums and media programmes to enhance SLD Group's brand equity.

As the interior design and decorating services markets are highly fragmented and competitive, the Group will also consider relevant M&As. Such transactions would not only create more business opportunities and accelerate the growth of the Group, but would also facilitate synergies with SLD Group's brands.

SLD Group will do its utmost to expand its clientele and secure more projects by implementing the above- mentioned strategies, so as to deliver fruitful results and create value for its shareholders.

About Steve Leung Design Group Limited
Steve Leung Design Group Limited is an internationally renowned and award-winning interior design and interior decorating & furnishing company founded in 1997 by Mr. Steve Leung. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the Group has branch offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenzhen, and with over 500 staff. The Group is second largest interior design services providers which did not provide any fitting-out services in the PRC and Hong Kong in terms of revenue for FY2017.

The Group has a wide spectrum of design projects that have been accredited with design awards in Asia Pacific region and worldwide. Overseas award-winning projects include Yuan at Atlantis The Palm, The Eight at Grand Lisboa Hotel in Macau; PRC projects include: One Park Shanghai, One Shenzhen Bay, Nanjing Mandarin Palace and Tang Island; and Hong Kong projects include: MX, yoo Residence II and more. The Group has become part of Jangho Group since 2014.

Media Enquires:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Vicky Lee Tel: (852) 2864 4834 Email: vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk
Rita Fong Tel: (852) 2114 4939 Email: rita.fong@sprg.com.hk
Yoko Li Tel: (852) 2864 4813 Email: yoko.li@sprg.com.hk
Fax: (852) 2527 1196


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

Emperor W&J Delivers Strong 1H2018 Results; Quadruples Net Profit to HK$157M

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HONG KONG, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Emperor Watch & Jewellery Limited (the "Group" or "Emperor W&J") (Stock code: 887), a leading retailer of European-made watches and fine jewellery, is pleased to announce an encouraging interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 (the "Period").

Driven by strong momentum in luxury consumption market, the Group delivered solid operating performance in the Period. The Group's total revenue soared by 34.3% to HK$2,454.0 million (1H2017: HK$1,827.2 million). Amidst the revival of inbound tourism and the strong recovery in retail sales, revenue from Hong Kong achieved a growth of 42.8% to HK$1,908.4 million (1H2017: HK$1,335.7 million), accounting for 77.8% (1H2017: 73.1%) of the total revenue. The improvement in consumption sentiment has supported robust demand of watches. Hence, revenue of the watch segment, the Group's largest revenue contributor, rose 32.1% to HK$1,941.5 million (1H2017: HK$1,470.3 million), accounting for 79.1% (1H2017: 80.5%) of the total revenue. Revenue from the jewellery segment increased by 43.6% to HK$512.5 million (1H2017: HK$356.9 million).

Gross profit grew by 39.0% to HK$677.3 million (1H2017: HK$487.3 million). The gross profit margin further enhanced to 27.6% (1H2017: 26.7%), due to stronger market demand for watches.

These factors, coupled with enhanced operating efficiency, led to a significant rise in the Group's net profit, to HK$157.2 million (1H2017: HK$39.1 million), more than quadrupled year-on-year. Basic earnings per share was HK2.29 cents (1H2017: HK0.57 cent). The Group has declared an interim dividend of HK0.70 cent (1H2017: HK0.17 cent) per share.

As at 30 June 2018, the Group operated 84 stores (31 December 2017: 80) in Hong Kong, Macau, mainland China and Singapore.

In recent years, the Group strives to strengthen the presence of "Emperor Jewellery" in emerging shopping areas, aiming to seize the market potential of local young consumers. During the Period, two "Emperor Jewellery" stores were opened in Telford Plaza I in Kowloon Bay and Sunshine City Plaza in Ma On Shan, which are surrounded by large-scale residential developments. The store layouts are decorated with warm colour combinations, creating the harmonious and relaxing atmosphere, and the perfect setting for presentations of exquisite jewellery pieces.

During the Period, the Group continued to diversify its "Emperor Jewellery" product portfolio in order to attract new customer segments. The Group presented the "Mini Me" Family Jewellery collection, featuring enchanting mother-and-baby pendant sets modelled after lovable animals including the panda, giraffe, dog, cat and bear, making perfect gifts for family-themed parties or new-born celebrations. In addition, the new "Yo Yo" collection of fashionable black chalcedony embraces subtle unisex design. To spotlight the design that is imbued with an urban sense of style, renowned artist Mr. Nicholas Tse was invited to feature the new "Yo Yo" collection in a music video.

Moving forward, the Group plans to further extend its presence to Malaysia, following the successful launch in Singapore in 2013. The Group will continue to eye further expansion opportunities, to enhance its market presence around the world.

Ms. Cindy Yeung, Chairperson & Chief Executive Officer of Emperor W&J, said, "We are pleased to deliver significant growth in both topline and bottom line in the first half of 2018. The solid performance is largely due to a strong recovery in retail market and the improvement in margin profile driven by our impressive efforts at enhancing efficiency. Given the favourable fundamentals of Hong Kong luxury watch sector, we are cautiously optimistic about our long-term business prospects albeit market volatility. We remain committed to respond proactively to the market dynamics and leverage on our core competencies."

Ms. Yeung continued, "This year marks the 10th anniversary of our listing. Over the past decade, the Group has achieved considerable operational progress despite cyclical swings. We stay faithful to our business strategy with renewed commitment to delivering on its potential."

About Emperor Watch & Jewellery Limited
With long establishment history of over 70 years in Hong Kong since 1942, Emperor W&J (887.HK) is a leading retailer principally engages in the sale of European-made internationally renowned watches, and self-designed fine jewellery products under its own brand, "Emperor Jewellery". Through its comprehensive watch dealership, unique marketing campaigns and extensive retail network at prime locations in Hong Kong, Macau, the mainland China and Singapore, Emperor W&J established a strong brand image amongst its target customers ranging from middle to high income groups worldwide. In recognition of its efforts in investor relations communications, Emperor W&J was granted with "Best IR Company" (Small Cap) and "Best IR Presentation Collaterals" (Small Cap) in HKIRA Investor Relations Awards 2018 by the Hong Kong Investor Relations Association. For more information, please visit its website: www.emperorwatchjewellery.com.

Investor/Media Enquiries
Ms. Winnie Kwong,
Group Investor Relations Manager
Emperor Group
Tel: +852 2835 6791
Email: winniekwong@emperorgroup.com

Ms. Anna Luk,
Group Investor Relations Director
Emperor Group
Tel: +852 2835 6783
Email: annaluk@emperorgroup.com


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

Kingworld Medicines' 20181H Revenue Improved Steadily by 9.3%; Profit Attributable to Owners of the Company Increased 24.4% to RMB27.55 Million

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Building a New Retail Ecosystem Integrating Online and Offline Operations; Providing Complete Omni-channel Operation Services;
Continuously Optimising Product Portfolio; Expands Coverage of Medicine and Greater Health Industry

HONG KONG, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Kingworld Medicines Group Limited ("Kingworld Medicines" or the "Group", stock code: 01110.HK), a globally leading and well-known omni-channel enterprise offering a complete supply chain spanning the greater health products and services industry, has announced its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2018 (the "Period").

During the period, as the main products have actively optimised product channels, sales grew steadily, and the Group continues to adjust its operating strategy and strengthened its online and offline business network, revenue has increased by 9.3% to approximately RMB556.5 million and gross profit increased by 17.3% to approximately RMB174.3 million with gross profit margin to 31.3%, improved by 2.1 percentage point. Profit attributable to owners of the Company increased by 24.4% to approximately RMB27.5 million and basic earnings per share increased by 24.4% to approximately RMB4.43 cents. As for the three major businesses of the Group: revenue from the pharmaceutical products segment amounted to approximately RMB361.7 million, representing an increase of 29.5% against the same period last year and accounting for 65.0% of the Group's total revenue; revenue from the healthcare products segment was approximately RMB105.4 million, accounting for 18.9% of the total revenue, and revenue from the medical devices segment amounted to approximately RMB89.4 million, accounting for 16.1% of the Group's total revenue.

Mr. Zhao Li Sheng, Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of Kingworld Medicines, said, "China has been actively implementing "Healthy China" strategy to ensure the safety and quality of consumer products, and with the establishment of the Medical Insurance Administration to coordinate the promotion of the medical treatment, medical insurance and pharmaceutical arenas, the strategic importance of the pharmaceutical industry continues to rise. At the same time, consumers are paying more attention to their own health, and healthcare consumption per capita continues to rise, driving the market's huge demand for greater health products. A range of macroeconomic and demographic factors are conducive to the overall growth of the pharmaceutical sectors and the greater health industry in general and greater opportunities for Kingworld Medicines. The Group continues to build a new retail ecosystem integrating online and offline operations of Kingworld Medicines, providing an omni-channel sales network spanning supply chain operation services. At the same time, it has actively introduced high-quality health products from overseas, and strives to bring long-term and considerable returns to shareholders."

As the flu raged worldwide in the first half year, Nin Jiom Chuan Bei Pei Pa Koa gained recognition on the social media in the United States, and was popular in North America, as well as in China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and Chinese communities all over the world, becoming a topic of discussion. In addition, the news attracted the attention of Mr. Wang Guoqiang, Head of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine. During the period, effective channel optimisation since second half of last year boosted the sales of Nin Jiom Chuan Bei Pei Pa Koa. The Group has carried out various major promotional activities to attract more younger consumers, and has set up Nin Jiom flagship stores at major sales terminal sites. Benefiting from the successful channel reform and promotional strategy, the revenue from Nin Jiom Chuan Bei Pei Pa Koa grew significantly to approximately RMB282.1 million in the first half-year, representing an increase of 37.5% as compared with the same period last year.

Another well-known brand of Kingworld Medicines, the Culturelle probiotics product series from the United States, achieved an outstanding performance in the Hong Kong and Macau market, with an increase of 63.7% year-on-year. The Group is constantly expanding this brand's market potential in Hong Kong and Macau, an additional distribution channel, which is now available in "SaSa", the large cosmetic retail chain. For the ZUCCARI slimming products series from Italy, its concentrated slimming 100% pineapple juice is now available in "SaSa", Kissbaby, Mannings and other retail stores in Hong Kong. The Group has tailored and carried out diverse and interactive marketing activities for Lifeline Care maternal and infant fish oil nutrient product series from Norway and the "Global Slimming" product series in online and offline channels, accessing tens of millions of fans through KOLs. The new mode of innovative consumption has been a main driving force sending the economy into a new phase of growth, as more consumers are changing their shopping habits from offline to online. Alert to the trend, in order to actively seize market opportunities, the Group has been aggressively pursuing OMO resources integration, and building a new retail ecosystem integrating online and offline operations through the Kingworld Health Family Qianhai e-commerce platform.

The Group has actively optimised the channel layout of another star product Taiko Seirogan, optimising the channel layout, standardising channel management to facilitate orderly sales and maintaining the channel price structure. Optimisation efforts here will enable our downstream distributors and cooperative partners to enjoy greater efficiency. The Group acts as the agency and distributor of various well-known external use medicated oil products including the Mentholatum series, Flying Eagle Wood Lok Medicated Oil, Hoe Hin White Flower Embrocation and Kingworld Imada Red Flower Oil. During the reporting period, the Group formulated targeted market strategies for each external use medicated oil product, forged ties with online merchants in order to extend the sales of medicine to greater depth, sponsored various sports events as well as hastened work on boosting the coverage of products to customers and end users.

The Group has continued to introduce overseas best-selling products, and in the second quarter of this year, introduced the widely popular CARMEX healing lip balm series,a globally leading with over 80-year-old brand of lip balm from the United States, and became its exclusive distributor in the Greater China Region (excluding Taiwan). The CARMEX healing lip balm series will be restocked in the third quarter of this year in conjunction with a series of brand promotion activities, covering various channels that have been extended to various regional cities in China and large retail chain stores such as Watsons, and will continue to expand into cosmetic and convenience stores in the future.

In the first half of this year, Hong Kong Yuen Tai Pharmaceuticals Limited, a related company of the Group, successfully obtained the Certificate for Manufacturer (Good Manufacturing Practice in respect of Proprietary Chinese Medicines), and products include "Fengbao Jianfu Capsules", and "Pu Ji Kang Gan Granules," certifying that it follows the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in manufacturing and quality control of Chinese patent medicines. As of now, only 18 pharmaceutical companies in Hong Kong have obtained the certification as a licensed manufacturer of Chinese patent medicines and the Group is the agent of the medicines manufactured by four of these pharmaceutical companies. With years of in-depth promotion, these products have become widely-known high quality healthcare products, which reflects the Group's effective selection of quality products to create a healthy lifestyle for consumers.

During the period, Shenzhen Dong Di Xin Technology Company Limited ("Dong Di Xin"), a non-wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, continued to promote the medical devices business. Dong Di Xin is an innovator and driving force in the global medical devices for physical rehabilitation and treatment industry and a National High and New Tech Enterprise. Dong Di Xin was recognised as an AAA Grade Enterprise in terms of Quality Reputation in Guangdong Province for three consecutive years. In addition to ODM research and development, manufacturing and production of medical devices, Dong Di Xin has also developed its own brand "NU-TEK", which is a globally renowned brand of medical devices for physical rehabilitation with products covering various physical therapies such as low-, medium- and high-frequency electrotherapy, ultrasound therapy, short wave electrotherapy, magnetic therapy, laser therapy and biofeedback therapy.
In the first half of 2018, the Group continued to promote the development of the medical service industry through investment projects, grasping the development opportunity within the greater health services industry. A notable example is Shenzhen Kingworld Medicine Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, invested in the "Shenzhen Zhiyuan Healthcare Technology Innovation Center", a greater health services project in the Lok Ma Chau Loop. The project is committed to establishing a greater health services platform in the Lok Ma Chau Loop in order to better serve the Mainland China market by utilising the excellent pharmaceutical and healthcare resources in Hong Kong.

Looking ahead, the Group will continue to seize the development opportunity under the "Healthy China" strategic initiative by actively seeking quality plant-based medicine and healthcare products from overseas, and also actively promote in-depth strategic cooperation with time-honored brands in China. The Group will also gradually establish a comprehensive supply chain system extending both upstream and downstream across the healthcare industry, and build an intelligent information management service system that covers the entire supply chain. Under the consumer-oriented concept, the Group will strengthen the integration with offline channels and sales terminals, and boost sales and enhance brand recognition by leveraging advantages in both its brand and product portfolio.

Mr. Zhao commented, "The Group will continue to seize the opportunities presented by the favorable medical national policy and actively introduce quality medicines and healthcare products to consumers and optimise its greater health product portfolio. At the same time, the Group will continue to build a sound upstream and downstream supply chain system and strengthen integration with offline channels and sales terminals in the second half of the year to build a new retail ecosystem. Kingworld Medicines remains true to our original aspiration and continues to adhere to our corporate mission of "offer help to people, benefit the world," utilise its brand advantages, upgrade and diversify its product portfolio, enhance its sales performance and create social value, building a comprehensive greater health products and services enterprise."


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

Biogen and Eisai Report Data from Long-Term Extension Phase 1b Study of Investigational Alzheimer's Disease Treatment Aducanumab

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Data Includes Additional Analyses of Long-Term Extension Phase 1b Study With Titration Cohort at 36 Months and Fixed-Dose Cohorts at 48 Months

TOKYO, Aug 29, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) and Eisai Co., Ltd. announced results from a recent analysis of the ongoing long-term extension (LTE) Phase 1b study of aducanumab, an investigational treatment for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild AD dementia. The updated analyses include data from the placebo-controlled period and LTE for patients treated with aducanumab up to 36 months in the titration cohort and up to 48 months in the fixed-dose cohorts. The results are generally consistent with previous interim analyses, and there were no changes to the risk-benefit profile of aducanumab.

The Phase 1b study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple-dose study evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD) and clinical effects of aducanumab in patients with prodromal AD or mild AD dementia. The study includes fixed dosing at 1, 3, 6 and 10 mg/kg as well as an arm with a titration regimen in which patients received a gradually increased dose of aducanumab until they reach a maximum dose of 10 mg/kg.

In the Phase 1b study 196 patients received aducanumab or placebo, of which 143 patients entered the LTE. The LTE cohorts were allocated across six dosing arms including: placebo switchers, 1 mg/kg switchers to 3 mg/kg, fixed doses (3 mg/kg, 6 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg) and titration. Additionally, there were discontinuations as expected in studies of 36 or more months. As a result, there are small patient numbers in the new analyses.

The results for each dose arm are generally consistent with previous interim analyses. Amyloid plaque levels as measured by positron emission tomography (PET) continued to decrease in a dose- and time- dependent manner in patients from the titration cohort at 36 months and fixed-dose cohorts at 48 months. Amyloid plaque levels in the 10 mg/kg fixed-dose at 48 months remained at a level considered below the quantitative cut point that discriminates between a positive and negative scan. Analyses of exploratory clinical endpoints Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) suggest a continued benefit on the rate of clinical decline over 36 months and 48 months, respectively. Clinical effects with titrated aducanumab in the second year of the LTE were generally consistent with findings in the 10 mg/kg fixed-dose cohorts.

Of the 185 patients dosed with aducanumab in the Phase 1b study, 46 patients experienced amyloid imaging abnormalities (ARIA)-E (edema). Eight patients experienced more than one episode of ARIA-E. The majority of ARIA events occurred early in the course of treatment; they were typically mild radiographically (MRI), clinically asymptomatic and resolved or stabilized within 4-12 weeks, with most patients continuing treatment. In the Phase 1b LTE, the most commonly reported adverse events were headache, fall and ARIA.

Detailed results of the study will be presented at upcoming medical conferences.

About Aducanumab

Aducanumab (BIIB037) is an investigational compound being studied for the treatment of early 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 collaboration and license agreement. As of October 22, 2017, Biogen and Eisai Co. Ltd. are collaborating on the development and commercialization of aducanumab globally.

About the Joint Development Agreement between Biogen and Eisai for Alzheimer's Disease
Eisai and Biogen are widely collaborating on the joint development and commercialization of Alzheimer's disease treatments. Biogen serves as the lead for co-development of aducanumab, Biogen's investigational anti-amyloid beta (Abeta) antibody for patients with Alzheimer's disease which Eisai has been co-developing since October 22, 2017. Eisai serves as the lead in the co-development of elenbecestat, a BACE inhibitor, and BAN2401, an anti-amyloid beta (Abeta) protofibril antibody, 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 Biogen

At Biogen, our mission is clear: we are pioneers in neuroscience. Biogen discovers, develops and delivers worldwide innovative therapies for people living with serious neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. One of the world's first global biotechnology companies, Biogen was founded in 1978 by Charles Weissmann, Heinz Schaller, Kenneth Murray and Nobel Prize winners Walter Gilbert and Phillip Sharp, and today has the leading portfolio of medicines to treat multiple sclerosis; has introduced the first and only approved treatment for spinal muscular atrophy; and is focused on advancing neuroscience research programs in Alzheimer's disease and dementia, multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology, movement disorders, neuromuscular disorders, pain, ophthalmology, neuropsychiatry and acute neurology. Biogen also manufactures and commercializes biosimilars of advanced biologics.

We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.biogen.com.

About Eisai

Eisai Co., Ltd. is a leading global research and development-based pharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan. We define our corporate mission as "giving first thought to patients and their families and to increasing the benefits health care provides," which we call our human health care (hhc) philosophy. With approximately 10,000 employees working across our global network of R&D facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to realize our hhc philosophy by delivering innovative products to address unmet medical needs, with a particular focus in our strategic areas of Neurology and Oncology.

Leveraging the experience gained from the development and marketing of Aricept, a treatment for Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies, Eisai has been working to establish a social environment that involves patients in each community in cooperation with various stakeholders including the government, healthcare professionals and care workers, and is estimated to have held over ten thousand dementia awareness events worldwide. As a pioneer in the field of dementia treatment, Eisai is striving to not only develop next generation treatments but also to develop diagnosis methods and provide solutions.

For more information about Eisai Co., Ltd., please visit https://www.eisai.com.

Contact:
Biogen Inc. David Caouette +1-617-679-4945 public.affairs@biogen.com Eisai Co., Ltd. Public Relations Department +1-551-262-2686

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

Tempus Holdings Achieved Stable Performance in 2018 Interim Results; Actively Faced Challenges Brought by the Sluggish Market

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HONG KONG, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Tempus Holdings Limited ("Tempus Holdings" or the "Company", stock code: 6880.HK) was pleased to announce its interim results for the six months ended 30June 2018 (the "Reviewed Period").

During the Reviewed Period, the revenue and gross profit remained stable, with a revenue of approximately HK$387.0 million, representing an increase of 0.3% as compared with approximately HK$385.8 million (restated) for the same period of 2017. Profit for the year was HK$7.1 million, representing an increase of approximately 61.4% as compared with approximately HK$4.4 million (restated) for the same period of 2017. The increase in profit for the Reviewed Period was mainly attributable to (1) the gain on fair value change of the investment properties held by the Company; and (2) share of results of associates, which were partially off set by the increase in finance costs and administrative expenses.

Steady Growth in Health and Wellness Business
The Company has continuously adhered to the business philosophy of excellent product quality and innovation, which enables its health and wellness business to maintain stable revenue growth. During the Reviewed Period, the Company recorded revenue in health and wellness business of approximately HK$208.5 million, representing 53.9% of the total revenue. The Company continued tofocus on the innovation and breakthrough in sales channels, marketing and product for health and wellness business.During the Reviewed Period, the Company launched a total of 20 new products, generating HK$17.2 million, representing 8.2% of the Company's revenue from the health and wellness business. The Company explored proactive sales channels alongside with its traditional sales channels to expand its market size and increase revenue, which successfully stimulated revenue from internet sales amounting to HK$9.1 million, representing an increase of 33.5% from the same period in 2017.

The Company continues to strengthen its sales channels and expandits geographical market coverage. During the Reviewed Period, the Groupoperated a total of 153 retail outlets, with110 retail outlets in Mainland China(mainly located in the Yangtze River Delta, the Pearl River Delta, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regions and Chengdu), 24 retail outlets in Hong Kong and Macau, as well as 19 retail outlets in Singapore and Malaysia.

Prominent advantages in trading and logistics business
The Company strives to transform itself from product to product-plus-service.Since 2016, the Company actively invested and acquired the service innovation companies being related to global merchandise trade and cross-border logistics business and playing a significant role in the upstream and downstream of the Company's ecological supply chain, thus further mapping in the various segmentation of trade and logistics business. In 2017, with keen market insight, the Company captured and participated in investment opportunities in relation to high-quality businesses, and accelerated the development of trading and logistics business through a series of acquisitions and investments.In the first half of 2018, the Company continued to enhance its service capability and industrial mapping in the field of commodity circulation.Revenue generated from trading and logistics business reached approximately HK$178.5 million, representing 46.1% of the total revenue.

The outbreak of Sino-US trade war in the first half of 2018 caused adverse effects on the general business environment as well as negative market sentiment across the Asia Pacific region.Faced with various unstable economic factors, the Company forged ahead and made advancements, adjustedits strategies actively, focused on its core business, and expandedits qualified resources in the industrial service chain to continue to strengthen its competitiveness and adaptability. During the Reviewed Period, the Company continued to expand its customer base, dig deeper into customer value and improve service quality. The revenue from trading, transportation services and warehouse and other services for the Reviewed Period was HK$13.4 million, HK$151.4 million and HK$13.6 million, respectively, representing 7.5%, 84.9% and 7.6% of the Company's revenue generated from the segment of trading and logistics business, respectively.The Company's network of the transportation services has been well developed. The Company has established four major distributioncentres located in Guangdong, Sichuan, Jiangsu and Liaoning and numerous branches and offices covering most provinces in the Mainland China, with the competitive advantage being more prominent.

Mr. Li Dongming, the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Tempus Holding Limited believes that, "Affected by the turbulent market environment in the first half of 2018, the general business environment and consumers sentiment across the China region has been continuously undermining. The Company achieved breakthrough development through actively responding to challenges from the market and industry, as well as fully grasping business development opportunities. The Company will continue to integrate and enhance the qualified resources and business development capabilities in the trade and logistics field, strengthen resource integration and improve operations, as well as enhance the business scale of the Tempus Value Chain, Tempus Sky Enterprise Limited, and Yundongli. Meanwhile, the Company will further seek for innovation and breakthrough in sales channels, marketing and product for health and wellness business, thereby further enhancing the Company's business scale and profitabilityas well as creating greater value for shareholders."

About Tempus Holdings Limited
Tempus Holdings Limited (6880.HK), member of the Tempus Group, was listed on the mainboard of HKEx in 2011. As Tempus Group's key overseas capital operation platform, Tempus Holdings adheres to the concept of the parallel development of industrial and investment, focusing on two major business segments - the health service and commodity circulation, and strive to achieve the overall strategic objective "develop global value chain, build large consumer ecosystem".

Tempus Holdings has been devoting itself to exploring new business in the section of commodity circulation in recent years. Through a series of investment, mergers and acquisitions, Tempus Holdings has become an integrated logistics service enterprise, which integrates warehousing and transportation, supply chain finance, commodity trade and internet platforms. The "OTO", founded in 1978, is the flagship brand under Tempus Holdings' health business section and then became the market leader of health and wellness products. OTO has established comprehensive sales network in the PRC, Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Malaysia etc. With sound international reputation, OTO products also reach North America, Oceania, Europe and Latin America through export.


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

Avi-Tech ended FY2018 with revenue of S$35.7 million and net profit of S$4.9 million

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- Proposed final dividend of 1.0 cent per share and a special dividend of 0.3 cents per share
- Burn-In Services continued its growth trajectory due to increased demand from automotive semiconductor industry
- Slowdown in the electronics manufacturing and semiconductor industries impacted Group's overall performance, particularly Engineering Services

SINGAPORE, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Avi-Tech Electronics Limited ("Avi-Tech", SGX: BKY), a total solutions provider for burn-in services, manufacturing and PCBA services and engineering services for the semiconductor, electronics and life sciences industries, announced its financial results for the fourth quarter ("4Q2018") and financial year ("FY2018") ended 30 June 2018.
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
S$ Million    4Q2018    4Q2017    ch (%)    FY2018    FY2017    ch (%)
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Revenue          7.5      12.0     -37.8      35.7      40.0     -10.7
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Gross Profit     1.8       3.3     -44.9       9.9      11.8     -15.7
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
GP Margin (%)   24.3      27.4   -3.1ppt      27.9      29.5   -1.6ppt
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
PBT              1.1       2.1     -49.1       5.7       8.0     -29.0
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Net Profit       0.8       2.2     -62.1       4.9       7.0     -30.8
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Diluted EPS (cents) 
                0.49      1.30                2.84      4.11 
---------------------------------------------------------------------- 
FY2018 closed with a decline in Group revenue of 10.7% to S$35.7 million. Nonetheless, the Group continued to be profitable with S$4.9 million and generating positive cash flow of S$7.5 million from operating activities.

The Group's Burn-In Services business segment contributed strongly to FY2018 revenue with an 11.0% increase in revenue to S$10.1 million on the steady contribution from the automotive semiconductor market. Manufacturing and PCBA Services business segment continued to be the main contributor to Group revenue despite a marginal decline of 3.7% to S$19.0 million. Engineering Services business segment was experiencing weaker growth, in particular, the smart phone market, on the back of softer demand and its revenue declined by 41.1% to S$6.6 million, and registering a loss for the financial year and causing an overall reduced profit for the Group.

FY2018 Group gross profit declined by 15.7% to S$9.9 million on account of the Engineering Services business segment's revenue decline while gross profit margin remained relatively stable at around 27.9% in FY2018, after taking into consideration allowance for inventory obsolescence.

The Group registered a net profit of S$4.9 million in FY2018 mainly attributed to higher revenue and profit from the Burn-In services business segment, offset by the Engineering Services business segment's loss and lower profit by the Manufacturing and PCBA Services business segment.

In terms of the balance sheet, the Group continued to remain strong with a positive working capital of S$36.3 million as at 30 June 2018, as compared with S$28.6 million as at 30 June 2017. Net asset value per share was 28.35 cents. Net cash generated from operations was S$7.5 million due to profit generated for the year. There was an increase in cash and cash equivalents of S$3.7 million for FY2018. As at 30 June 2018, the Group's cash position increased to S$33.2 million.

Enhancing Shareholder Value: Continued inclination towards greater profit-sharing with shareholders; Strengthen core competencies and pursue new growth opportunities

Mr Lim Eng Hong, CEO of Avi-Tech said, "The downturn in the global semiconductor and electronics industries impacted the Engineering Services business segment. Nonetheless, we are cautiously optimistic for its better performance for this financial year, FY2019. Overall, our business fundamentals remain intact and we are remaining positive about our Group performance, especially with our other two business segments, Burn-In Services and Manufacturing and PCBA Services, continuing with their steady performances as the automotive semiconductor market remains resilient and artificial intelligence, cloud computing and the internet of things will drive semiconductor revenue growth in 20182.

"In line with our inclination towards greater profit-sharing with shareholders, given our profitability, positive operating cash flow, strong cash position and confidence in our future performance, we are declaring a final dividend of 1.0 cent per ordinary share and a special dividend of 0.3 cents per ordinary share. Including the interim dividend of 1.3 cents per ordinary share, we would have paid out 91.4% of net profit, which is well above our dividend policy of minimum pay out of 30% of total annual net profit annually.

"In the year ahead, we will continue to work towards strengthening our core competencies, extending our customer base and exploring new growth opportunities, including mergers and acquisitions, so as to continue to enhance shareholder value."

This press release is to be read in conjunction with Avi-Tech's results announcement posted on the SGXNET on 28 August 2018

About Avi-Tech Electronics Limited (Co. Reg. No. 198105976H)

Incorporated in Singapore in 1981 and listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited in 2007, Avi-Tech Electronics Limited is a total solutions provider for burn-in and engineering services for the semiconductor, electronics and life sciences industries.

Our core business segments include Burn-in Services, Manufacturing and PCBA Services, and Engineering Services. Our clientele are global leaders in semiconductor automotive, networking, and industrial products.

Headquartered in Singapore, Avi-Tech's production facility is equipped with advanced burn-in systems, many of which are designed and fabricated in-house. Our market presence has expanded beyond Singapore to Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan, China, Japan, the United States and Europe.

Business excellence and quality assurance are of utmost importance in our business. We are proud to be one of only a few local SMEs to be conferred the prestigious Singapore Quality Award by the SQA Governing Council in 2008. We also garnered the Singapore Quality Class award by SPRING Singapore in 1998 (with award renewals in 2001, 2003 and 2005) and won the Enterprise 50 award (Ranking: 1st) by the Singapore Economic Development Board in 1999. In addition, we have achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 13485 and EICC certifications.

For more information, please visit our website www.avi-tech.com.sg

This release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual future performance, outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements as a result of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Representative examples of these factors include (without limitation) general industry and economic conditions, interest rate trends, cost of capital and capital availability, competition from other companies and venues for the sale/distribution of goods and services, shifts in customer demands, customers and partners, changes in operating expenses, including employee wages, benefits and training, and governmental and public policy changes. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which are based on current view of management on future events.

Issued by 29 Communications LLP for and on behalf of Avi-Tech Electronics Limited

Media & Investor Relations Contact:
Lim Siew Yin, Mobile: +65 9858 4673, Email: siewyin@29communications.com.sg
Angelina Pereira, Mobile: +65 9191 4756, Email: angiep@29communications.com.sg

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

Sharp's AQUOS 8K LCD Monitor (LV-70X500E) for Europe Wins EISA Award 2018-2019

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AQUOS LV-70X500E
TOKYO, Aug 29, 2018 - (JCN Newswire) - Sharp Corporation's AQUOS 8K LCD monitor (LV-70X500E) for the European market won an EISA AWARD 2018-2019.

The influential EISA AWARDS represent outstanding new products released in Europe in the past year in various expert groups, as selected by the editors and technical writers of EISA publications.

The AQUOS 8K LCD monitor won a Best Product Award for Monitor Innovation in the Home Theatre Display & Video. The top-end model in the AQUOS Series, the LV-70X500E adopts an 8K high-resolution LCD panel with 16 times the resolution of Full-HD. In addition to its 8K high-resolution panel, which displays images with realism not possible with 4K panels and in detail indiscernible to the naked eye, this AQUOS 8K LCD monitor incorporates Sharp's wealth of AQUOS technologies for high brightness and wide colour gamut. The result is an image experience that has to be seen to be believed. The EISA AWARD recognizes Sharp for being first to the European market with a monitor capable of displaying 8K images.

Sharp will continue to accelerate development of its 8K TVs together with a range of related 8K products to lead the world by establishing an "8K Ecosystem."

The LV-70X500Ewill be on display at IFA 2018, to be held at Messe Berlin from August 31 (Friday) to September 5 (Wednesday). (Sharp Booth: Hall 11.2/103)

*EISA: Expert Imaging and Sound Association. Launched in 1982, EISA is a prominent industry
association of more than 50 special interest magazines, mainly in the fields of cameras, mobile electronics, audio, and video, from 28 countries in Europe and from Japan and the U.S.

About Sharp Corporation

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

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

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

WARC's Admap goes digital

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LONDON, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - WARC, the global authority on advertising and media effectiveness, has announced that its monthly print magazine Admap will change format, becoming a monthly online report available on WARC.com.

Admap will live on the WARC website, with a fresh batch of content every month focusing on the latest research and best practice on key topics in marketing communications. The change will involve new formats, including a summary deck for each issue and audio or webinar content.

Admap's move from a print magazine to an electronic format means it will remain a key element of WARC's online service. The change, precipitated by Colin Grimshaw's decision to end his ten-year tenure as Editor of Admap, will come into effect from October 2018.

Commenting on taking Admap online, Grimshaw says: "Since the publication of the first Admap 54 years ago, the magazine has played a unique role by providing its readers with a valuable source of latest ideas, inspiration and innovative thinking that helps marketing budgets work harder.

"As editor, it's been a privilege to develop Admap over the last ten years, to be the highly respected industry publication it is today. As it continues to be the essential guide to best practice for advertising and marketing communications, I have no doubt that our readers will enjoy the new digital format."

The last print edition of Admap will be published in early September. The editorial theme is Capturing Attention in the Attention Deficit Economy.

David Tiltman, Head of Content, WARC, comments: "Admap's content is already widely read by WARC subscribers. This change in format is about turning Admap into a flagship WARC report every month, and developing new ways to communicate the research findings and best practice guidance to our audience."

The new-look Admap, which will be themed around a different topic every month, will be available to current Admap print and WARC.com subscribers. Admap queries and content submissions can be sent to admapeditor@warc.com. Access to Admap online and more information on subscriptions will be available at www.warc.com/admap in September. View at www.warc.com/Welcome for information about WARC.


About WARC

- Your global authority on advertising and media effectiveness

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

WARC runs two global and two regional case study competitions: WARC Awards, WARC Media Awards, WARC Prize for Asian Strategy and WARC Prize for MENA Strategy.

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Huanxi Media's 1H 2018 Revenue Surges to HK$84.99 Million Due to Movie Box Office Successes

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Mega Box Office Hit Dying to Survive to be Booked to 2H 2018 Revenue

HONG KONG, Aug 29, 2018 - (ACN Newswire) - Huanxi Media Group Limited ("Huanxi Media" or the "Group"; stock code: 1003) has posted a total revenue of HK$84,988,000 for the six months ended 30 June 2018 (the "Review Period"), compared to HK$107,000 in the same period last year. Impressive box office receipts of the movie Us and Them contributed to the Group's improved results for the first half year. Gross profit of the Group also increased to HK$14,914,000.

During the Review Period, loss attributable to owners of the Company amounted to HK$111,608,000 (same period last year: HK$35,510,000). If the non-cash items of HK$65,469,000 recognised from the granted share options and exchange loss of HK$9,492,000 are excluded, the adjusted loss attributable to owners of the Company would have been HK$36,647,000, similar to that of the same period last year.

The Group's principal business activities, movie production, started to yield positive results. During two of the most important box office windows in China this year, Labour Day in May and summer holiday, two of the Group's movies, Us and Them and Dying to Survive, achieved box office of RMB1.36 billion and RMB3.1 billion, respectively. Each of these two movies ranked No. 1 in box office during the respective period. According to maoyan.com statistics, the Group ranked No. 2 nationally at RMB4.5 billion in terms of total box office generated as the primary producer of movies as of 29 August 2018.

Steven Xiang, CEO of Huanxi Media said, "The Group believes quality content is critical to our success. As a result, we value our directors and creative teams. We are starting to see results from our efforts in the last two years to build a strong pipeline of content. Looking forward, our forthcoming major productions include Ash is Purest White (to be released on 21 September 2018) and Crazy Alien (to be released on 5 February 2019). We have secured a minimum guaranteed distribution agreement worth RMB2.8 billion early last month for Crazy Alien, from which we will recognise at least RMB700 million in revenue."

About Huanxi Media Group Limited (Stock code: 1003)
Huanxi Media is the most innovative media company in China engaged in the investment and production of film and TV content, as well as the operation of a new media broadcast platform. Listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong, it was jointly established by Dong Ping, Ning Hao, Xu Zheng and Xiang Shaokun in 2015. Huanxi Media has a new and unique shareholding structure which closely binds the shareholder directors with the long-term interests of the Company, enabling it to set the standard for quality content of film and online drama series in China based on its exclusive and original content.

Huanxi Media has secured the productions of some of the best domestic film directors for the coming few years, including Ning Hao, Xu Zheng, Wong Kar Wai, Chan Ho Sun Peter, Zhang Yibai, Gu Changwei and Jia Zhangke, which means it has procured the best original content of films and drama series in the country, in a bid to continue to deliver premium content for the fast-developing film and TV industry in China.

Huanxi Media is the sole operator of the new media broadcast platform "huanxi.com," a subscription-based curated video platform. Living up to its promise of being "simple to access, affordable luxury, advertisement-free," Huanxi Media selects quality domestic and overseas films for Internet users. huanxi.com is accessible on three major terminals: PC, mobile devices and TV, delivering excellent content and a smooth cinema-like viewing experience.

Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Maggie Au (852) 2864 4815 maggie.au@sprg.com.hk
Phoebe Leung (852) 2114 4172 phoebe.leung@sprg.com.hk
Emma Zhong (852) 2864 4858 emma.zhong@sprg.com.hk
Fax: (852) 2527 1196
Website: www.sprg.com.hk


 
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