KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 (Bernama) -- Visual Bank Inc, via its subsidiary amanaimages Inc, has announced the expansion of its Qlean Dataset, a premium artificial intelligence (AI) training data solution for developers building high-performance Japanese speech foundation models.
The expansion strengthens its position in providing rights-cleared datasets for research and development and large-scale AI applications.
“As demand for culturally contextualised foundation models grows, high-quality, legally compliant Japanese training data is becoming increasingly critical.
“Visual Bank is committed to bridging the gap between raw content and production-ready AI systems through rigorous data preparation and engineering,” said its chief executive officer, Saneyuki Nagai, in a statement.
The datasets are fully rights-cleared for commercial use and aligned with global compliance standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
They include high-fidelity audio assets recorded at 48 kilohertz (kHz)/16-bit or higher, enabling capture of both studio-quality speech and diverse acoustic environments.
In addition, the datasets support detection of harmful language, including hate speech and abusive prompts, and include evaluation datasets aligned with international benchmarks such as MMSU to assess reasoning and linguistic nuance in Japanese.
The solution also incorporates Japan-specific audio, including traditional and urban sound environments, to support multimodal and spatial AI applications.
The datasets are available through AI Data Recipe, which offers both ready-to-use datasets and customised data production, including speaker casting, recording and annotation tailored to specific development needs.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, 2 April 2026
OMNI BRIDGEWAY NAMES PETER GALGAY TO DRIVE CAPITAL STRATEGY
KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 (Bernama) -- Omni Bridgeway, a global leader in litigation financing and risk management, has appointed Peter Galgay as Head of Commercial Strategy and Capital Solutions based in New York.
According to Omni Bridgeway in a statement, Galgay's primary focus will be on expanding the company’s capabilities in origination, underwriting, and management of large-scale structured finance and alternative investment solutions for legal assets.
Additionally, he is set to be a key player in supporting Omni Bridgeway’s global investor relations and capital formation initiatives.
“Peter brings a unique blend of investment leadership, capital markets expertise, and first‑hand experience in all aspects of legal finance.
“He knows Omni Bridgeway well, and his strategic insight, commercial drive and global perspective will be instrumental as we continue to expand our capital solutions offering for legal assets,” said its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Raymond van Hulst.
Meanwhile, Galgay expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is honoured to join Omni Bridgeway and is looking forward to collaborating with teams worldwide to advance the company's capital solution capabilities and support clients through scalable investment partnerships.
Prior to joining Omni Bridgeway, Galgay served for over a decade as Chief Investment Officer for a Singapore-based family office. Earlier in his professional life, Galgay worked as a Senior Analyst in Ernst & Young’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services practice and also held a position as an Equity Portfolio Manager at Deutsche Asset Management.
Galgay is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and holds a Master of Arts in International Business and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida, alongside a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.
-- BERNAMA
According to Omni Bridgeway in a statement, Galgay's primary focus will be on expanding the company’s capabilities in origination, underwriting, and management of large-scale structured finance and alternative investment solutions for legal assets.
Additionally, he is set to be a key player in supporting Omni Bridgeway’s global investor relations and capital formation initiatives.
“Peter brings a unique blend of investment leadership, capital markets expertise, and first‑hand experience in all aspects of legal finance.
“He knows Omni Bridgeway well, and his strategic insight, commercial drive and global perspective will be instrumental as we continue to expand our capital solutions offering for legal assets,” said its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Raymond van Hulst.
Meanwhile, Galgay expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is honoured to join Omni Bridgeway and is looking forward to collaborating with teams worldwide to advance the company's capital solution capabilities and support clients through scalable investment partnerships.
Prior to joining Omni Bridgeway, Galgay served for over a decade as Chief Investment Officer for a Singapore-based family office. Earlier in his professional life, Galgay worked as a Senior Analyst in Ernst & Young’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services practice and also held a position as an Equity Portfolio Manager at Deutsche Asset Management.
Galgay is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and holds a Master of Arts in International Business and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida, alongside a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 1 April 2026
NEINOR PARTNERS STONESHIELD ON 150 MLN EUROS MARBELLA RESIDENTIAL PROJECT
KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Bernama) -- Neinor Homes (Neinor), Spain’s listed residential developer, has partnered with Stoneshield Capital (Stoneshield) to develop a 150 million euro premium residential project in Marbella, marking its entry into the high-end residential segment. (1 Euro = RM4.65)
“This partnership demonstrates the strength of our platform, combining development expertise with institutional capital to deliver high-quality projects,” said Neinor Chief Executive Officer, Borja García-Egotxeaga in a statement.
The development will comprise 262 homes across more than 60,000 square metres, adjacent to Río Real Golf Course and close to Marbella city centre, Puerto Banús and the beach.
It will include a 1,200 square metre private members’ club featuring wellness areas, pools, sports facilities and landscaped spaces.
The project is one of the largest residential developments launched in Marbella in recent years, with expected revenues exceeding 600 million euros over the next five years.
Under the joint venture structure, Stoneshield will hold a 70 per cent stake and Neinor 30 per cent, with Neinor acting as delegated developer across the full development lifecycle.
The investment reflects strong fundamentals in Marbella, supported by robust international demand and limited land supply.
The transaction reinforces Neinor’s asset management platform, which has deployed over 1.3 billion euros alongside institutional investors including AXA IM Alts, Orion Capital, King Street and Bain Capital.
-- BERNAMA
“This partnership demonstrates the strength of our platform, combining development expertise with institutional capital to deliver high-quality projects,” said Neinor Chief Executive Officer, Borja García-Egotxeaga in a statement.
The development will comprise 262 homes across more than 60,000 square metres, adjacent to Río Real Golf Course and close to Marbella city centre, Puerto Banús and the beach.
It will include a 1,200 square metre private members’ club featuring wellness areas, pools, sports facilities and landscaped spaces.
The project is one of the largest residential developments launched in Marbella in recent years, with expected revenues exceeding 600 million euros over the next five years.
Under the joint venture structure, Stoneshield will hold a 70 per cent stake and Neinor 30 per cent, with Neinor acting as delegated developer across the full development lifecycle.
The investment reflects strong fundamentals in Marbella, supported by robust international demand and limited land supply.
The transaction reinforces Neinor’s asset management platform, which has deployed over 1.3 billion euros alongside institutional investors including AXA IM Alts, Orion Capital, King Street and Bain Capital.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 30 March 2026
Axi Launches New Axi Select Webinar Series Following Successful Bloomberg Campaign
SYDNEY, March 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global online trading provider Axi has announced the launch of a new educational webinar series under its Axi Select programme, expanding its trader education initiative following the successful completion of its recent Bloomberg campaign. The first webinar is scheduled to take place in April 2026 and will form part of an ongoing series designed to deliver expert-led market insights and practical trading education to Axi’s global trading community.
The new webinar series represents the next phase of Axi’s commitment to supporting trader development through accessible, professional-grade education. Building on strong audience engagement generated during the Bloomberg campaign, the initiative aims to provide traders with deeper market understanding, structured learning opportunities, and direct access to experienced market professionals.
Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select at Axi, said:
“The Bloomberg campaign highlighted a growing demand for credible, expert-led education that helps traders better understand today’s fast-moving markets. Launching the Axi Select webinar series allows us to continue that conversation by giving traders direct access to insights, analysis, and practical knowledge designed to support long-term trading development.”
The inaugural session will be hosted by Cassandra Ng, a financial markets analyst, educator, and trading specialist with extensive experience delivering market commentary and trading education to global audiences. The session will focus on market outlooks, trading frameworks, and risk management principles aimed at helping traders navigate evolving market conditions with greater confidence.
Cassandra commented:
“Education is essential for traders looking to build consistency and discipline in the markets. This webinar series is designed to simplify complex market movements and provide actionable insights that traders can apply within their own strategies.”
About the Presenter
Cassandra Ng is a prop firm trader and market analyst at an award-winning research firm - where her research powers the decisions of thousands of traders every day. Her speciality is in Elliott wave and Fibonacci - which she uses to forecast where the markets are heading. With years of experience working with retail and professional traders, her speciality is in translating complex financial concepts into practical trading knowledge through webinars, workshops, and market analysis.
The webinar series extends Axi’s broader mission to empower traders through education, technology, and structured development opportunities. By moving from broadcast engagement into interactive learning experiences, Axi continues to strengthen its focus on providing meaningful value beyond trading access alone.
Registration is now open, and traders can secure their place by visiting:
https://axicorp.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h2n3EqLTT-qQww5BZtrx2g
About Axi
Axi is a global online trading brand offering access to forex, shares, indices, commodities, and digital assets. Through initiatives such as Axi Select, Axi supports traders worldwide with education, technology, and professional trading tools.
Media Contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com
For full details on the Axi Select program, visit: https://www.axi.com/int/funded-trader-program
The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader LLC. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply.
SOURCE: Axi Trader LLC
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
SBC MEDICAL Q4 2025 REVENUE FALLS, NET INCOME SURGES
KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 (Bernama) -- SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated (SBC Medical) reported an 11 per cent year-on-year decline in fourth-quarter (Q4) revenue to US$40 million for the three months ended Dec 31, 2025, following restructuring and changes to its franchise model. (US$1=RM4.01)
However, the company’s net income for the quarter rose 117 per cent to US$14 million, reflecting improved profitability despite weaker top-line performance.
In a statement, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Yoshiyuki Aikawa said the results reflect a business in transition, citing restructuring in 2024 and revised franchise fee arrangements implemented in April 2025 as key drivers of the revenue decline.
Earnings per share increased 133 per cent to US$0.14, although earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined 35 per cent to US$14 million, with margins narrowing to 34 per cent.
Operational indicators showed resilience, with average revenue per customer recovered to US$316, an 11 per cent increase year-over-year—a meaningful inflection after a period of gradual decline and one that reflects the early impact of its pricing and customer engagement initiatives.
The company ended the year with 283 franchise locations and 6.6 million customers over the past 12 months, both higher than a year earlier.
Looking ahead, SBC Medical plans to expand its dermatology-focused multi-brand strategy, grow its non-aesthetic healthcare segment and strengthen its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
However, the company’s net income for the quarter rose 117 per cent to US$14 million, reflecting improved profitability despite weaker top-line performance.
In a statement, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Yoshiyuki Aikawa said the results reflect a business in transition, citing restructuring in 2024 and revised franchise fee arrangements implemented in April 2025 as key drivers of the revenue decline.
Earnings per share increased 133 per cent to US$0.14, although earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined 35 per cent to US$14 million, with margins narrowing to 34 per cent.
Operational indicators showed resilience, with average revenue per customer recovered to US$316, an 11 per cent increase year-over-year—a meaningful inflection after a period of gradual decline and one that reflects the early impact of its pricing and customer engagement initiatives.
The company ended the year with 283 franchise locations and 6.6 million customers over the past 12 months, both higher than a year earlier.
Looking ahead, SBC Medical plans to expand its dermatology-focused multi-brand strategy, grow its non-aesthetic healthcare segment and strengthen its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 27 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS EXCELLENT RATINGS OF NAN SHAN GENERAL
KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) -- AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Taiwan’s Nan Shan General Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan General), with a stable outlook.
In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect Nan Shan General’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, improved to the strongest level at year-end 2025, supported by consistent earnings growth and partial profit retention.
AM Best expects the insurer to maintain its balance sheet strength over the medium term, backed by an insurance risk profile characterised by personal lines and small- to medium-sized commercial accounts, prudent investments and a sound reinsurance programme.
Operating performance remained favourable in 2025, driven by improved underwriting results and stable investment income. Premium growth has exceeded the industry average for three consecutive years, mainly driven by expansion in the voluntary motor, travel and commercial lines.
The insurer’s personal lines segment, accounting for about 74 per cent of its portfolio, benefited from positive underwriting margins, while its net operating expense and combined ratios edged down to 37.2 per cent and 90.0 per cent, respectively, representing the lowest levels for both metrics over the last five-year period. Return on equity remained at a double-digit level.
Investment performance also strengthened, supported by capital gains in equities and stable interest income from bonds. The company is expected to maintain a focus on domestic fixed-income securities with moderate equity exposure.
Nan Shan General benefits from its parent, Nan Shan Life Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan Life) through brand recognition, distribution support and capital backing, despite its relatively modest business scale.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect Nan Shan General’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, improved to the strongest level at year-end 2025, supported by consistent earnings growth and partial profit retention.
AM Best expects the insurer to maintain its balance sheet strength over the medium term, backed by an insurance risk profile characterised by personal lines and small- to medium-sized commercial accounts, prudent investments and a sound reinsurance programme.
Operating performance remained favourable in 2025, driven by improved underwriting results and stable investment income. Premium growth has exceeded the industry average for three consecutive years, mainly driven by expansion in the voluntary motor, travel and commercial lines.
The insurer’s personal lines segment, accounting for about 74 per cent of its portfolio, benefited from positive underwriting margins, while its net operating expense and combined ratios edged down to 37.2 per cent and 90.0 per cent, respectively, representing the lowest levels for both metrics over the last five-year period. Return on equity remained at a double-digit level.
Investment performance also strengthened, supported by capital gains in equities and stable interest income from bonds. The company is expected to maintain a focus on domestic fixed-income securities with moderate equity exposure.
Nan Shan General benefits from its parent, Nan Shan Life Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan Life) through brand recognition, distribution support and capital backing, despite its relatively modest business scale.
-- BERNAMA
GASENTEC APPOINTS MANOJ NARENDER MADNANI AS PRESIDENT
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- GasEntec, the global modular Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technology and infrastructure platform, has announced the appointment of Manoj Narender Madnani as its President.
Madnani will oversee global strategy, sovereign partnerships, and capital formation as GasEntec expands its technology-led LNG platform across high-growth markets in the Gulf, India, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Its Executive Chairman, Chong-ho Kwak in a statement said Madnani brings deep experience in cross-border energy infrastructure, capital markets, and sovereign engagement, strengthening the company’s ability to scale responsibly and drive long-term growth.
Madnani has over three decades of experience across the global energy value chain, including his recent role as Managing Director, International at MARA, where he supported energy and digital infrastructure initiatives across the Global South.
He previously spent nearly a decade with Kulczyk Investments, leading cross-border energy and infrastructure transactions across Europe, Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
GasEntec delivers modular LNG regasification and floating terminal solutions designed to accelerate deployment timelines and support energy security in markets requiring reliable, flexible baseload capacity.
Founded in South Korea, GasEntec has delivered LNG infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, serving sovereign, utility, and industrial clients.
-- BERNAMA
Madnani will oversee global strategy, sovereign partnerships, and capital formation as GasEntec expands its technology-led LNG platform across high-growth markets in the Gulf, India, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Its Executive Chairman, Chong-ho Kwak in a statement said Madnani brings deep experience in cross-border energy infrastructure, capital markets, and sovereign engagement, strengthening the company’s ability to scale responsibly and drive long-term growth.
Madnani has over three decades of experience across the global energy value chain, including his recent role as Managing Director, International at MARA, where he supported energy and digital infrastructure initiatives across the Global South.
He previously spent nearly a decade with Kulczyk Investments, leading cross-border energy and infrastructure transactions across Europe, Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
GasEntec delivers modular LNG regasification and floating terminal solutions designed to accelerate deployment timelines and support energy security in markets requiring reliable, flexible baseload capacity.
Founded in South Korea, GasEntec has delivered LNG infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, serving sovereign, utility, and industrial clients.
-- BERNAMA
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