Interactive Brokers Provides Commission-free Trading On Forecast Contracts

KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Bernama) -- Interactive Brokers Group, an automated global electronic broker, announced its wholly-owned subsidiary, ForecastEx LLC, has received the necessary designations from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to operate a contract market and derivative clearing organisation.

ForecastEx will commence operations on July 8, and Interactive Brokers clients from eligible countries will have immediate access. Interactive Brokers is the first Futures Commission Merchant to join as an exchange member.

Interactive Brokers Group Chairman and Founder, Thomas Peterffy said ForecastEx is a prediction market that the firm has been working on and experimenting with for nearly 10 years.

“Planning for the future is the ultimate task for any business leader, government official or individual. We may adjust our plans based on consensus forecasts or express our disagreement to earn a profit or hedge our exposures,” he said in a statement.

Contracts listed on ForecastEx are simple and intuitive with contract purchase prices ranging from US$0.02 and US$0.99, in which the value of these contracts will continue to fluctuate based on market participants’ evolving judgement of probabilities, directly reflecting the collective market view of the likelihood of the event. (US$1=RM4.71)

Upon the event's resolution, the contract settles at a predefined value, US$1 for a correct contract and US$0 for the incorrect one.

ForecastEx contracts are ideal for establishing the consensus view on controversial issues and hedging economic exposure, and have weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual durations.

Eligible clients of Interactive Brokers LLC, Interactive Brokers Hong Kong Limited, and Interactive Brokers Singapore Pte Ltd can trade ForecastEx contracts on IBKR ForecastTrader.

After its initial launch, ForecastEx will expand internationally and cover additional local and controversial global issues. Contracts will be limited only by the availability of credible, impartial arbiters of event resolutions.

-- BERNAMA

SingleStore Offers Bi-directional Integration With Apache Iceberg to 'thaw' Data Lakehouses

KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Bernama) -- Real-time data platform, SingleStore, has announced a bi-directional integration with Apache Iceberg that opens up a world of opportunities for building intelligent applications on data lakehouses.

“Our vision has always been to provide one single data store for all companies to be able to take advantage of speed, scale and simplicity.

“With this release, we believe we are enabling a significant portion of the market that today cannot build real-time modern applications on data stored in data lakes,” said SingleStore Chief Executive Officer, Raj Verma in a statement.

This integration addresses the critical challenge faced by enterprises where an estimated 90 per cent of data remains ‘frozen’ in lakehouses and is unusable for powering interactive applications, analytics or artificial intelligence (AI).

Apache Iceberg is the de facto standard for data lakes for storing massive datasets, offering cost efficiency for querying large-scale datasets. However, enterprises struggle to leverage this data due to complex and costly processes required to ‘thaw’ it.

SingleStore’s new integration is intended to solve precisely that, providing low-latency ingestion, bi-directional data flow and real-time application performance at lower costs for modern intelligent applications and analytics.

This offering is currently available in public preview and customers will soon be able to create external tables in SingleStore based on Iceberg data, build projections on these tables and take advantage of the speed and performance of SingleStore on frozen data.

SingleStore’s customers, many of whom use Apache Iceberg for their data lakes and commercial lakehouses, have expressed a strong interest in a solution that enables fast interactive applications and low-latency analytics using their vast, untapped Iceberg data.

-- BERNAMA

GRADIANT LAUNCHES ALKALI, POWERED BY EC², THE WORLD'S MOST EFFICIENT BATTERY-GRADE LITHIUM PRODUCTION PROCESS

 

alkaLi is dedicated to accelerating the scaling of battery-grade lithium production and is powered by EC², the world's only all-in-one solution engineered to Extract, Concentrate and Convert battery-grade lithium. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The Gradiant spin-out will accelerate the scaling of battery-grade lithium production to meet the global demand for EVs, energy storage, and portable devices

BOSTON, June 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Gradiant, a global solutions provider for advanced water and wastewater treatment, announces the spin-out of alkaLi™, a standalone company dedicated to accelerating the scaling of battery-grade lithium production. alkaLi is powered by EC^² , the world's only all-in-one solution engineered to Extract, Concentrate and Convert battery-grade lithium.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240624946740/en/ 

With electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable electronic devices driving global demand for lithium, EC^² offers producers an unprecedented new means to rapidly scale lithium production. EC^² features instantaneous production measured in seconds, not years; reduced costs with 50% lower OPEX and zero CAPEX costs; industry-leading sustainability with significantly reduced carbon and water footprints; and expedited permitting to meet the global lithium demand. The complete system is balanced, integrated, and adapts to a broad range of source inputs.

alkaLi’s EC^² is a highly modular, three-stage system adaptable to the broadest range of source inputs to date, including – brine, evaporation, and recycling. The technology can be deployed in full or standalone stages, integrated with existing site infrastructure with an option to supercharge production with SmartOps AI. EC^² has been bench-tested and field-tested, and successfully completed a commercial proving system with SLB in 2023. alkaLi will continue to offer the business model flexibility that Gradiant is renowned for: providing producers with a zero CAPEX option in which the company builds, owns and operates the solution.

“A clear purpose drives Gradiant, and that is to ensure water for generations to come. With that comes an affinity for holistic environmental solutions beyond water, including the successful electrification of our societies to reduce the burden on fossil fuels,” said Prakash Govindan, COO of Gradiant. “Demand for lithium is outstripping supply. We must accelerate the scale of production solutions, and it is for this reason that we will spin out alkaLi, a completely independent company with a dedicated focus on maximizing the production efficiency of battery-grade lithium.”

“Gradiant is different. We're more than a water company; we're a technology company,” added Siva Kumar Kota, Head of Technology. “Our revolutionary RO Infinity with Counter-Flow Reverse Osmosis technology powers EC^². CFRO operates with significantly lower demand for energy and water, concentrating to limits approaching saturation without the environmental impacts common in incumbent technologies.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48860

Hai Robotics’ HaiPick A3S Wins Red Dot Award: Product Design 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- Hai Robotics announced that one of its Autonomous Case-handling Mobile Robot (ACR), HaiPick A3S, was recognised in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2024.

The Red Dot Award: Product Design honours products on an annual basis that possess exceptionally high design quality, from functionality to use to the quality of responsibility.

“This distinction serves as a testament to our commitment to keep innovating and pursue excellence, while encouraging others to think outside the box.

“We are deeply grateful for this achievement, and are empowered to continue delivering innovative solutions with outstanding quality to address our customer's challenges," said Hai Robotics System Product Manager, Rebin Wu in a statement.

HaiPick A3S is a high-performance ACR designed for Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) scenarios, specifically storage and line-side case handling requirements, which transfers goods through chains and lifts for picking and placing.

The product meets industry dust-proof and anti-static requirements, as well as compliance with ISO standards of cleanliness (10000, Class 7), while also realises point-to-point handling from buffer racks to machines.

Additional key features of HaiPick A3S include precise picking of small items with ultra-low picking height of 200 millimetre (mm) and a slim chassis of 650mm; flexible and smooth handling that can automatically adjust its picking method based on goods' size and shape to ensure smooth handling; as well as safety protection design to facilitate smooth movement for operations personnel.

The robot was most recently showcased at SEMICON Southeast Asia in Malaysia, the region's largest global electronics and supply chain event attracting more than 15,000 attendees.

The award is one of the most prestigious design competitions in the world, in which The "Red Dot" distinction has been the internationally recognised seal of outstanding design quality for almost 70 years, with this year's submissions tested and evaluated by a jury of 39 experts across 20 countries in four continents.

-- BERNAMA

UL SOLUTIONS VERIFICATION HEIGHTENS GRAND HYATT SEOUL DEDICATION TO EXCELLENCE

KUALA LUMPUR, June 26 (Bernama) -- UL Solutions, a global leader in applied safety science, has awarded Grand Hyatt Seoul the UL Verified Healthy Building Mark for Indoor Environment: Air and Hygiene, the first hotel in Asia to achieve this distinction.

“By earning the UL Verified Healthy Building Mark, the Grand Hyatt Seoul is demonstrating how the hotel prioritises the health and well-being of building occupants. We are proud to apply our science-based work to support this achievement,” said UL Solutions vice president and general manager of the Enterprise Sustainability group, Sean McCrady in a statement.

Meanwhile, Grand Hyatt Seoul general manager, Peter Hildebrand said: “As a trusted destination for discerning travellers, our hotel achieving the UL Verified Healthy Building Mark underscores our commitment to excellence while investing in programmes that enhance the well-being of our valued guests and talented staff.”

UL Solutions developed the UL Verified Healthy Building Mark to meet the growing demand for healthier indoor spaces, and for hotels to earn this, UL Solutions assesses them against rigorous indoor air quality (IAQ) and hygiene methodologies.

By addressing the unique challenges of indoor hotel environments, the verification programme promotes continual IAQ improvement through policies and plans, as well as provides visibility into potential challenges, allowing early mitigation through practical solutions.

The verification from UL Solutions is a key part of the Grand Hyatt’s safety assessment and preparation strategy as it embraces an increase in occupancy due to a rise in travel and in-person meetings.

The hotel has worked behind the scenes to achieve the UL Verified Healthy Building Mark while implementing additional practices designed to enhance the well-being of guests and staff.

These include sanitizer stations prominently placed throughout the hotel, heightened frequency of cleaning of public spaces and guestroom surfaces, accredited cleanliness training, and an on-staff hygiene and well-being leader to help ensure heightened protocols are met.

The five-star hotel in Seoul’s Namsan Mountain district underwent rigorous assessments, including air handling unit evaluations, janitorial effectiveness checks and air quality testing, whereby UL Solutions experts thoroughly reviewed these assessment results to verify the quality of the indoor environment.

-- BERNAMA

NX GROUP, CONTROLANT TO PROVIDE REAL-TIME MONITORING SERVICE FOR TRACKING CARGO LOCATION

KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- Nippon Express Holdings Inc has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Iceland-based Controlant Inc, a provider of real-time monitoring devices for pharmaceuticals.

Through this strategic partnership agreement with Controlant, the Nippon Express (NX) Group will be able to provide transportation services with end-to-end monitoring of cargo status, especially for pharmaceutical and healthcare products requiring strict temperature control.

According to a statement, customers will also be able to optimise their supply chain processes by linking the NX Group's e-NX Visibility tracking system with Controlant's real-time data logger.

The group has positioned the healthcare industry as a priority industry in its NX Group Business Plan 2028 - Dynamic Growth 2.0 "Accelerating Sustainable Growth".

It has acquired Good Distribution Practices (GDP) and Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma) certification at 34 business locations in 24 countries/regions worldwide, and is working to build quality management systems and infrastructure.

The NX Group aims to contribute to the health of people by supporting its customers in the global pharmaceutical and healthcare industry from a logistics perspective via the establishment of a reliable and secure global pharmaceutical logistics platform.

-- BERNAMA

AM Best Affirms Australia’s Ansvar Ratings As Excellent

KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Australia’s Ansvar Insurance Limited (Ansvar).

AM Best in a statement said these credit ratings (ratings) which have a stable outlook reflected Ansvar’s balance sheet strength, which was assessed as very strong, as well as its marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

In addition, Ansvar’s ratings factor in rating enhancement to reflect its ownership, integration and support from Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc (EIO), a United Kingdom-based insurance group that specialises in providing commercial insurance.

Ansvar’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at least at the very strong level over the medium term.

The company has prudent capital management in place, with a track record of financial flexibility to support its regulatory solvency position and risk-adjusted capitalisation.

Its operating performance was assessed as marginal by the credit rating agency, with operating performance metrics exhibited heightened volatility over the past five years, predominantly as a result of weather-related events as well as physical and sexual abuse (PSA) claims.

However, the company recorded positive operating earnings in 2022 and 2023, supported by recoveries arising from a stop loss reinsurance programme with EIO, while investment income continues to be a key contributor to overall earnings, with a net investment yield of 5.1 per cent, last year.

Both the PSA excess-of-loss cover and stop loss programme have been renewed for 2024, with these reinsurance arrangements expected to substantially limit downside risk to Ansvar’s operating performance and balance sheet strength fundamentals over the near term.

Prospectively, AM Best expects group support to remain available if the company’s performance volatility persists.

-- BERNAMA

TOKYO’S INTERACTIVE DIGITAL ART MUSEUM DEBUTS IN HISTORIC JEDDAH

KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 (Bernama) -- Known as a museum without a map, teamLab Borderless Jeddah opened on June 10 in Jeddah Historic District as a collaborative initiative between the Saudi Ministry of Culture and the Tokyo-based art collective teamLab.

Spanning approximately 10,000 square metre of gross floor area, the museum is the Middle East’s first-ever teamLab Borderless to be permanently established on the shores of Alarbaeen Lagoon, overlooking the panoramic views of Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

“Our artworks are based on the continuity of knowledge over the long history of humanity. For this reason, it is very significant to be able to establish a large-scale teamLab Borderless in Historic Jeddah.

“Through Historic Jeddah and teamLab Borderless, we want to make this place the most amazing place in the world, creating an experience where people travel between the seamlessly interconnected past and present, and feel a strong sense of meaning,” said teamLab Founder, Toshiyuki Inoko in a statement.

Meanwhile, Saudi Ministry of Culture Official Spokesperson, Abdulrahman Almotawa said: “We are grateful to teamLab for sharing in the Ministry of Culture’s dedication to fostering innovative artistic expressions that resonate both locally and globally.

“We envisage teamLab Borderless Jeddah as a dynamic meeting point, where visitors can explore uncharted territories of creativity and engage in a dialogue that bridges the Kingdom’s rich heritage with contemporary artistic discourse.”

teamLab Borderless Jeddah is one of Saudi Arabia’s Quality of Life Programme initiatives to develop and foster cultural and arts exhibition infrastructure, with the aim of strengthening the Kingdom’s contribution to arts and culture, one of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The Jeddah’s museum comprises over 80 digitally-created artworks that transcend boundaries and is composed of multiple seamlessly interconnected areas, namely, Borderless World, Light Sculpture, Athletics Forest, Future Park, Forest of Lamps, EN TEA HOUSE, and Sketch Factory.

Created by teamLab, teamLab Borderless is a world of artworks without boundaries, forming one continuous borderless world, whereby visitors will be able to ‘wander, explore, and discover’, immersing their body in this borderless art.

-- BERNAMA

Discover Global Network-NETS Alliance Strengthens Presence In APAC

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Discover Global Network and Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS) have launched their strategic agreement, signed in 2022, in an event with executives from both companies.

The agreement will expand the global acceptance footprint for Discover Global Network cardholders within Singapore, which include Discover, Diners Club International, and Network Alliance cards.

“Our strategic alliance with NETS in Singapore contributes to our rapid expansion in the Asia Pacific region.

“We have seen increased spending in the region from consumers around the world, and we want those shoppers to be able to pay how they want,” said Discover managing director, head of international markets, APAC, Chris Winter in a statement.

Meanwhile, NETS Group chief executive officer, Lawrence Chan said: “NETS is grateful that we are now able to better achieve our purpose of connecting communities, empowering lives by bringing more customers who wish to use Discover to pay our merchants.”

NETS is one of the key acquirers in Singapore with over 130,000 acceptance points, and this agreement gives Discover Global Network cardholders the ability to use their cards at Point-of-Sale (POS) across Singapore in segments such as food and beverage, retail, convenience stores and supermarkets.

With 34 per cent spend growth in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region for Discover Global Network in 2023 alone, Discover Global Network’s agreement with NETS is the latest collaboration to bring more payment opportunities to cardholders and more customers to merchants.

In addition to Singapore, through recent enablement with payments companies in Australia and China, Discover Global Network cardholders can make payments at millions of accepting merchants around the region.

Discover Global Network is the global payments brand of Discover Financial Services which has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States (US), since its inception in 1986. Discover Financial Services is a digital banking and payment services company with one of the most recognised brands in US financial services.

-- BERNAMA

LRN’S POWERFUL AI-DRIVEN FUNCTIONALITY REVOLUTIONISES LEARNING EXPERIENCE

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- LRN Corporation, the leader in ethics and compliance (E&C) solutions, has unveiled Catalyst Engage.AI, a powerful new artificial intelligence (AI)-driven functionality designed to transform and enhance the learner experience.

A new addition to its award-winning Catalyst platform, Catalyst Engage.AI is first being introduced through three all-new, AI-enabled microlearnings specifically for Anti-Bribery & Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering, and Conflicts of Interest.

In a statement, LRN said it is breaking new boundaries when it comes to E&C learning by leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to present real-world ethical dilemmas, encouraging learners to engage in meaningful conversations and make thoughtful decisions.

The courses are just the beginning of several planned additions to Catalyst Engage.AI platform that LRN has planned for 2024 and 2025, which include new AI-enabled solutions and learning experiences.

These new AI-enhanced courses are designed to drive better retention and transform E&C training into an impactful journey of discovery and growth.

Driven by the new Engage.AI functionality, learners will now be able to experience a video introduction to the specific risk area; an AI-powered scenario with a dilemma to be solved, along with a quiz; interactive, real-time conversations with AI characters; a time-capped conversation; and AI-driven feedback on the learning exercise.

In view of the fact that Engage.AI functionality can adapt to each learner’s responses, the courses are able to provide a more personalised and effective learning experience that meets individual needs and learning styles.

According to LRN’s 2024 Ethics & Compliance Program Effectiveness Report, providing a more personalised learning experience is critical to E&C programme effectiveness.

More specifically, over half (54 per cent) of high-performing E&C programmes have implemented custom content to address specific risks or challenges, showcasing the importance and effectiveness of having succinct, meaningful and tailored learning experiences.

-- BERNAMA

Adrian Ridge Promoted To Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group CEO

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 (Bernama) -- Nikkiso Co Ltd has announced that Adrian Ridge will succeed Peter Wagner as Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group (CE&IG) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), after a Board vote, effective July 1.

“In six years under Peter’s leadership, Nikkiso CE&IG has more than quadrupled business, and is positioned for strong continued growth. I want to thank him for his leadership, and welcome Adrian as the group’s new CEO,” said Nikkiso President and CEO, Toshihiko Kai.

According to a statement, Wagner will stay on in a Board role as Executive Chairman for Nikkiso CE&IG Group, focusing on driving the vision and long-term strategy of the group in an advisor capacity.

Meanwhile, Ridge, who is currently Nikkiso CE&IG Group Executive Vice President, Operations and Manufacturing, will drive operational and financial results and ready the group for future growth, as CEO.

Prior to joining Nikkiso in 2018, Wagner was LEWA Group CEO and Managing Director, while Ridge joined Nikkiso in 2022 after approximately 30 years at Atlas Copco serving in various leadership positions.

A part of Nikkiso’s Industrial Division and headed by Cryogenic Industries Inc, Nikkiso CE&IG Group is a provider of cryogenic equipment, technologies and applications for clean energy and industrial gas market segments, employing more than 1,600 people in 22 countries.

-- BERNAMA

AM BEST WITHDRAWS NEW ZEALAND’S ACCURO HEALTH INSURANCE SOCIETY CREDIT RATINGS

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has withdrawn the financial strength rating of B (Fair) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “bb” (Fair) of New Zealand’s Accuro Health Insurance Society Limited (Accuro) as the company ceased operations as an insurance provider.

In a statement, AM Best said at the time of the withdrawal, these credit ratings (ratings) were under review with developing implications.

On May 31, Accuro transferred its insurance portfolio to Union Medical Benefits Society Limited (UniMed).

Immediately after this, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand cancelled Accuro’s insurance licence and the business is no longer in operation as an insurance company.

The credit rating agency’s procedure is for a final rating opinion to be produced in conjunction with a rating withdrawal.

However, since Accuro’s balance sheet does not contain any insurance assets or liabilities, the rating agency was unable to produce a final rating opinion.

Headquartered in the United States, AM Best does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City.

-- BERNAMA

Sangfor Technologies Unveils Access Secure’s Pops In Silicon Valley, Singapore

KUALA LUMPUR, June 11 (Bernama) -- Sangfor Technologies, a global cybersecurity and cloud computing solutions provider, announced the establishment of two new Points of Presence (POPs) for Access Secure, an innovative Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution, in Silicon Valley and Singapore.

According to the company in a statement, these strategic expansions underscore Sangfor’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge connectivity and security solutions to enterprises worldwide.

Sangfor Access Secure integrates security and connectivity into a unified, cloud-native architecture, providing users with a seamless and secure access experience to the Internet and business applications anytime, anywhere.

It addresses modern security and networking challenges, such as those brought about by remote work, advanced cybersecurity threats, and the increasing demand for better application performance and cross-border connectivity.

The decision to establish POPs in Silicon Valley and Singapore stems from Sangfor’s dedication to solving these evolving challenges for its diverse customer base in these regions.

These new POPs will bolster Access Secure’s infrastructure with a focus on delivering improved performance, seamless connectivity, and robust security in pivotal regions. Furthermore, the presence of a local site for storing and processing data allows companies to comply with their national data protection laws.

Access Secure’s POPs in Singapore and Silicon Valley will offer customers access to its comprehensive suite of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cybersecurity capabilities, including next-generation firewall as a service (FWaaS), endpoint protection, zero-trust network access, and advanced secure web gateway.

By integrating security and networking into a single solution, Access Secure provides centralised management and visibility, allowing administrators to monitor and assess network status at a glance.

As a cloud-native platform, Sangfor Access Secure scales easily and cost-effectively along with business growth and needs, offering cost savings of up to 80 per cent compared to traditional tools, ensuring simple and secure digital transformation is within the reach of businesses of all sizes.

-- BERNAMA

MYRIAD GENETICS-GSK ALLIANCE ENHANCES HRD TESTING ACCESSIBILITY IN 9 COUNTRIES

KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 (Bernama) -- Myriad Genetics Inc announced a collaboration with GSK aimed at improving access to homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) diagnostic testing for high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) patients.

A new sponsored testing programme leveraging Myriad’s MyChoice HRD Plus and MyChoice CDx Plus Tests (collectively referred to as Myriad’s MyChoice Tests) is now available in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Egypt, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and United Arab Emirates.

“Our collaboration with GSK is an important step forward in providing critical genetic insights that can help clinicians guide more personalised ovarian cancer treatment decisions.

“In the pursuit of advancing healthcare equity, Myriad is committed to extending the reach of our diagnostic solutions, like Myriad’s MyChoice Tests into additional markets to support more targeted patient care based on their genomic profile,” said its Executive Vice President of Strategy and Innovation, Patrick Burke in a statement.

This collaboration delivers on both companies’ shared commitment to improve care for patients with advanced ovarian cancer by facilitating access to genetic testing and demonstrates a mutual dedication to meeting an unmet need for patients who otherwise may not have access to testing.

HRD testing is an important predictive and prognostic biomarker for patients who have ovarian cancer.

Myriad’s MyChoice Tests determine HRD status in women with ovarian cancer whereby clinicians can order this test through their local pathology labs and samples are sent to Myriad Genetics.

A leader in genetic testing and precision medicine, Myriad Genetics is dedicated to advancing health and well-being for all by developing and offering genetic tests and guide treatment decisions across medical specialties.

-- BERNAMA

AUTEL ENERGY'S CHARGING STATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (CSMS) ACHIEVES OCPP 2.0.1 CERTIFICATION, ADVANCING EV CHARGING INTEROPERABILITY AND SECURITY

^{Autel Energy’s Charging Station Management System (CSMS) Achieves OCPP 2.0.1 Certification (Graphic: Business Wire)}


NEW YORK, June 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Autel Energy, a leading provider of EV (electric vehicle) charging solutions and services, proudly announced that its Charging Station Management System (CSMS) has obtained the OCPP 2.0.1 Certification from the Open Charge Alliance (OCA), marking a step forward in the company's commitment to advancing the interoperability and security of EV charging solutions and reinforcing its leadership in the EV charging industry.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240607104007/en/

 

OCPP 2.0.1, the latest version of Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) released by OCA in 2020, is the globally recognized standard for effective communication between charging stations and charging station management software. The protocol provides advanced smart charging capabilities and enhanced control features for utilities, Charge Point Operators (CPO), and EV owners. To date, only 14 companies worldwide have achieved this esteemed certification.

Autel Energy’s CSMS has successfully completed the Core and Advanced Security profiles of OCPP 2.0.1, demonstrating robust security measures and seamless interoperability. Additionally, Autel has finalized the development for the remaining six profiles of OCPP 2.0.1 and is poised to achieve full certification as soon as OCA opens the certification process for these profiles.

Autel EV Charging Software solution includes the CSMS and the charge app and serves over 100,000 customers across more than 70 countries. It facilitates over 600,000 charging sessions per month and contributes to the reduction of over 42 million kilograms of CO2 emissions.

By achieving the OCPP 2.0.1 certification, Autel guarantees enhanced security through the implementation of the Transport Layer Security (TLS) Protocol, which supports mandatory encryption and authentication mechanisms. By utilizing standardized communication protocols, the CSMS guarantees efficient and reliable data transmission, with all data transmissions between the charging station and the cloud encrypted to prevent data leakage, tampering, and attacks. The two-way authentication between the charging station and cloud system ensures that both ends of the communication are trusted, preventing unauthorized device access. Offering strong interoperability and excellent system stability, the CSMS can seamlessly integrate charging equipment from different manufacturers, ensuring wide compatibility, versatility, and high stability and reliability.

This achievement also demonstrates the leading position of the Autel Energy’s Charging Station Management System in technological innovation and industry protocols, enhancing customer trust and market competitiveness, and validates our commitment to providing high-quality, secure, and interoperable charging solutions.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240607104007/en/


Contact

Tom Rakoczy, Marketing Manager
tomr@autel.com


Source : Autel Energy

SOMPO NAMES THOMAS LEONE NEW CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER

PEMBROKE, Bermuda, June 6 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, today announced the appointment of Thomas (Tom) Leone as Chief Investment Officer, effective October 1, 2024. Mr. Leone will report to Nicolas Burnet, Chief Financial Officer for Sompo and will be based in the insurer’s Purchase, NY office.

Mr. Leone joins Sompo from PartnerRe, where he has worked for 11 years, most recently as Chief Investment Officer. He began his career in financial services more than 20 years ago and has since held roles in portfolio management and trading. Mr. Leone holds a master’s degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Hartford, CT, United States.

Mr. Burnet said: “I am excited to welcome Tom to Sompo. The combination of his technical expertise, strategic vision and strong leadership skills makes him the perfect fit for this role. I am confident Tom will further advance our investment strategy to ensure the continued financial success of our organization.”

Mr. Leone will take over from Mark Silverstein who has decided to retire from the role after more than 18 years with the business.

Mr. Burnet said: “Mark is leaving behind an exceptional legacy and I would like to thank him for his outstanding leadership and many contributions that built a market-leading investments function for Sompo. I am very pleased that his journey with our organization does not end here. Instead, it transitions into a new phase where Mark has agreed to lead Sompo’s philanthropic efforts.”

About Sompo

We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 130 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,000 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise™.

“Sompo” refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world with excellent financial strength as evidenced by ratings of A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best (XV size category) and A+ (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

To learn more please follow us on LinkedIn or visit www.sompo-intl.com.

Sompo Contact
Mike Jones
Global Head of Media Relations
M: +44 7765 901899
E: mijones@sompo-intl.com 


SOURCE : Sompo International Holdings Ltd.  

CYBER ACOUSTICS AND ES CONNECT PARTNER TO DELIVER CYBER ACOUSTICS SOLUTIONS ACROSS MALAYSIA

Partnership poises both companies to meet the rapid growth of call center industry in the region

VANCOUVER, Wash., June 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cyber Acoustics, a leading manufacturer of reliable and affordable computer peripherals used in schools, businesses, contact centers, and homes, today announced a strategic partnership with ES Connect, a distributor providing tailored business solutions to clients spanning industries. Together Cyber Acoustics and ES Connect will meet the needs of Malaysia's commercial business marketplace, delivering competitive and leading-edge technology solutions to the region’s rapidly growing call center industry.

“ES Connect is the perfect partner for us as they bring a wealth of experience in telecommunications and have a strong reputation for outstanding customer service,” said Steve Erickson, COO at Cyber Acoustics. “Their reach and expertise allow us to support global customers with call centers in Malaysia while ensuring both our companies are successfully poised for the growth of the call center industry in the country.”

Working collaboratively on technology and design with some of the world’s largest business process outsourcing (BPOs) companies, Cyber Acoustics has developed a suite of solutions tailored to solve some of the industry’s biggest pain points, including loud work environments and outdated agent training systems. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48749

PANGEA ATTAINS EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP, ETHICAL PRACTICES

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 (Bernama) -- Pangea, a pioneering force in the automotive leather industry, has showcased remarkable achievements in environmental stewardship, ethical business practices, and social responsibility in its newly unveiled annual Sustainability Report.

According to a statement, the report highlights Pangea's unwavering commitment to driving positive change and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

“At Pangea, sustainability is not just a goal; it is a fundamental principle that guides our every action. Our annual Sustainability Report reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence in environmental stewardship, ethical practices, and social responsibility.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to becoming the most trusted, sustainable supplier to our customers,” said Pangea Sales, Marketing & Design Executive Vice President, Tim Brennan.

Among the key accomplishments featured in the report were Pangea attained the prestigious Leather Working Group Gold Standard across all leather producing sites globally, underscoring its dedication to responsible leather manufacturing practices.

In addition, renowned certifications from Supplier Assurance (NQC), Drive Sustainability, EcoVadis, and the Sustainable Leather Foundation (SLF) further validate Pangea's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.

The company also recorded a decrease of energy consumption by approximately five per cent across the board, while water usage was reduced by over 10 per cent, showcasing its proactive efforts in resource conservation.

This reporting year saw Pangea not only reduced its carbon footprint, and that of each product, it also introduced a new series of Advanced Leather Products that boast distinct characteristics and improvements over standard materials, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and quality.

-- BERNAMA 

CHRISTIAN ERICKSON JOINS DUCK CREEK TECHNOLOGIES AS GENERAL MANAGER OF APAC

KUALA LUMPUR, June 4 (Bernama) -- Duck Creek Technologies, the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, has appointed Christian Erickson as General Manager of Asia Pacific (APAC).

Located in Sydney, Australia, Erickson will oversee a new phase of investment in the region and further strengthen the deep relationships with existing customers and partners, according to the company in a statement.

“I am thrilled to join Duck Creek and leverage my international experience across general insurance, property and casualty, reinsurance, and broking to benefit our customers and partners in the region.

“Duck Creek’s dedication to serving customers and transforming the insurance industry is truly impressive. I look forward to working with the talented Duck Creek team and our ecosystem partners to drive successful business outcomes for insurers across APAC,” said Erickson.

An accomplished enterprise software and professional services leader with over 25 years of experience, along with an extensive background spanning multiple regions, including APAC, the United Kingdom and North America, he brings a wealth of expertise to Duck Creek.

Erickson joins Duck Creek from Versent, where he served as General Manager of Growth, collaborating with top public and private sector companies in Australia to integrate cloud, digital, data, and security capabilities to deliver outstanding business results.

Duck Creek has recently experienced rapid growth in the APAC region, driven by new and expanding customer partnerships and the launch of new products, such as Duck Creek Reinsurance, Duck Creek Clarity, and Duck Creek Payments, rounding out its full suite of solutions.

With his extensive multi-region software services background, Erickson has the mix of experience needed to manage the significant investment in resources, people, and skills required to ensure Duck Creek continues to deliver on its promises to existing customers while having the capacity to deliver seamless solutions, services and experience to new customers.

Erickson earned his Master of Business Administration and Master of Management, Finance, and Financial Management degrees from the Macquarie Graduate School of Management.

-- BERNAMA

20 STARTUPS NAMED TO MEDTECH INNOVATOR ASIA PACIFIC ACCELERATOR

LOS ANGELES & SINGAPORE, May 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- MedTech Innovator, the world’s largest accelerator of medical technology companies, announced today that 20 medtech companies will participate in the fifth annual Asia Pacific Accelerator program.

“We are delighted to announce this year’s Asia Pacific cohort of companies, representing ten countries and a broad range of technologies and cutting edge innovations. We look forward to working with our partners to support this year’s cohort and to help them advance their technologies and transform the lives of patients not only in the region but potentially worldwide,” said Fredrik Nyberg, Managing Director, MedTech Innovator Asia Pacific.

MedTech Innovator Asia Pacific unites best-in-class startups with investors, business leaders, and allied service professionals in the medtech industry to help drive commercialization of life-changing technologies in the region. The 2024 cohort companies will also compete for up to US$ 300,000 in cash prizes and awards.

More than 400 companies applied for the Asia Pacific program this year, and after a rigorous selection process, 60 companies were invited to pitch, 20 of which were named to the 2024 cohort. The Asia Pacific Accelerator 2024 Cohort will attend the program’s kick off, joining the MedTech Innovator 2024 and the BioTools Cohorts at the invitation-only Innovator Summit 2024 on June 12-13 in San Francisco. This event connects the leadership teams from the latest cohorts with MTI’s partners, alumni, and other industry leaders. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48705

DATAROBOT, IMDA TEAM UP TO ENHANCE LLM ACCESSIBILITY EVALUATION FOR AI BUILDERS WITH PROJECT MOONSHOT

SINGAPORE, May 31 (Bernama) -- DataRobot, the enterprise AI platform leader, today announced the integration of LLM evaluation measures aligned with a new initiative from the Singapore Government Agency, Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The “Project Moonshot” initiative unveiled at the Singapore Asia Tech x Summit offers new capabilities that help AI practitioners and system owners manage LLM deployment risks by providing a common framework for benchmarking and red teaming evaluation.

“At DataRobot, our focus is addressing the confidence gap and helping organizations scale responsible use of generative AI,” said Jay Schuren, Chief Customer Officer, DataRobot. “We’re excited to announce that our latest product release incorporates Project Moonshot’s testing toolkit and its benchmarking and evaluation tests. The result is that LLM evaluations are more accessible and help scale the responsible use of generative AI, enabling practitioners to turn on and configure guard models to change the behavior and responses of LLMs.”

For full release, click here : http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=48717