KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 (Bernama) -- ICHAM Pte Ltd, a regional multi-family office and alternative asset manager, has launched a new open-ended Singapore Variable Capital Company (VCC) fund that invests in selected sectors of United States (US) equities and incorporates option-based strategies.
The fund aims to provide periodic income generation potential and total returns for investors and is available exclusively to accredited and institutional investors, according to ICHAM in a statement.
ICHAM Chief Executive Officer, Archan Chamapun said the investment strategy combines a value-orientated approach with an income-focused overlay within US equities to enhance income generation potential and total returns.
“The fund is designed to offer a sector rotation approach to US large-cap equities beyond traditional market cap weights,” he said.
Meanwhile, the fund’s lead Portfolio Manager, Felix Chew said the investment approach is designed to balance participation in equity markets while targeting periodic income distribution objectives across different market conditions.
With US equity valuations near historic highs and interest rates remaining volatile, the fund may appeal to accredited and institutional investors seeking income-orientated strategies in the current market environment.
Backed by academic research, the fund adopts a rules-based institutional investment framework focused on long-term risk management within a systematic investment framework for investors in the long term.
ICHAM has been serving accredited and institutional investors with tailored investment solutions since 2019 and is recognised for its expertise in alternative asset classes and structured products.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 26 May 2026
Monday, 25 May 2026
INSTRUQT POWERS LARGE-SCALE AGENTIC AI TRAINING AT GOOGLE NEXT 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Instruqt, the hands-on product experience platform, announced that Google Cloud Security used its platform to train more than 150 practitioners on Agentic artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities during Google Next 2026.
The session, branded the Agentic SOC Experience, was described as one of the largest hands-on Agentic AI training workshops held at a major industry conference this year, according to Instruqt in a statement.
Using Instruqt’s platform, participants created dedicated Google Cloud Vertex AI environments, enabling them to build and test AI agents in isolated sandbox settings instead of relying on slide-based demonstrations.
Instruqt Vice President of Marketing, Tyler Crumpler said companies developing AI products must focus on enabling customers to use the technologies effectively through real-world environments and practical applications.
Meanwhile, Google Cloud Security pre-sales engineer, Keith Manville said the platform enabled participants to gain practical understanding of agentic AI tools and workflows through interactive learning.
The initiative reflects broader industry efforts to narrow the gap between AI product launches and customer adoption, as enterprises seek more practical and scalable training methods.
Citing the 2026 State of Developer Adoption Report by SlashData, the company said 92 per cent of practitioners face at least one major adoption challenge, including technology complexity, team misalignment and outdated content.
-- BERNAMA
The session, branded the Agentic SOC Experience, was described as one of the largest hands-on Agentic AI training workshops held at a major industry conference this year, according to Instruqt in a statement.
Using Instruqt’s platform, participants created dedicated Google Cloud Vertex AI environments, enabling them to build and test AI agents in isolated sandbox settings instead of relying on slide-based demonstrations.
Instruqt Vice President of Marketing, Tyler Crumpler said companies developing AI products must focus on enabling customers to use the technologies effectively through real-world environments and practical applications.
Meanwhile, Google Cloud Security pre-sales engineer, Keith Manville said the platform enabled participants to gain practical understanding of agentic AI tools and workflows through interactive learning.
The initiative reflects broader industry efforts to narrow the gap between AI product launches and customer adoption, as enterprises seek more practical and scalable training methods.
Citing the 2026 State of Developer Adoption Report by SlashData, the company said 92 per cent of practitioners face at least one major adoption challenge, including technology complexity, team misalignment and outdated content.
-- BERNAMA
STONESHIELD CAPITAL TO INCREASE STAKE IN EXOLUM TO 20 PCT
KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Stoneshield Capital, a European real assets investment firm, has signed an agreement to acquire a 15 per cent stake in Exolum from OMERS, building on its existing investment in the company.
According to a statement, the firm acquired a 4.93 per cent stake in January this year, and once the transaction closes in the third quarter of 2026, its total holding in Exolum will rise to approximately 20 per cent.
The remaining 10 per cent of OMERS’ approximately 25 per cent stake is being separately acquired by a leading global investment firm. OMERS, together with its investment partners, has been invested in Exolum since 2016.
Stoneshield Capital co-founders, Felipe Morenés Botín and Juan Pepa said the firm has followed Exolum’s progress closely as an existing shareholder, including its international expansion, operational performance and growing role in the energy transition.
“Increasing our investment and taking active board representation reflects our conviction in Exolum’s distinctive combination of real assets quality, geographic reach and strategic relevance, and our commitment to supporting management as the company continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe’s leading energy logistics platforms,” said the co-founders.
Meanwhile, OMERS Infrastructure Senior Managing Director and Head of Europe, Luca Lupo said the transaction reflects the quality of the business and the firm’s disciplined approach to portfolio management and capital rotation.
Exolum is a Spanish-headquartered global energy logistics company specialising in the transportation, storage and distribution of refined products, bulk liquids and aviation fuels, while also supporting the energy transition.
The company operates a 4,000-kilometre (km) pipeline network in Spain and a further 2,000 km network in the United Kingdom, alongside 68 storage terminals with more than 11 million cubic metres of capacity serving over 48 airports globally.
Following completion, Stoneshield Capital will assume three of OMERS’ board seats, while the second investor will take the remaining two.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, the firm acquired a 4.93 per cent stake in January this year, and once the transaction closes in the third quarter of 2026, its total holding in Exolum will rise to approximately 20 per cent.
The remaining 10 per cent of OMERS’ approximately 25 per cent stake is being separately acquired by a leading global investment firm. OMERS, together with its investment partners, has been invested in Exolum since 2016.
Stoneshield Capital co-founders, Felipe Morenés Botín and Juan Pepa said the firm has followed Exolum’s progress closely as an existing shareholder, including its international expansion, operational performance and growing role in the energy transition.
“Increasing our investment and taking active board representation reflects our conviction in Exolum’s distinctive combination of real assets quality, geographic reach and strategic relevance, and our commitment to supporting management as the company continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe’s leading energy logistics platforms,” said the co-founders.
Meanwhile, OMERS Infrastructure Senior Managing Director and Head of Europe, Luca Lupo said the transaction reflects the quality of the business and the firm’s disciplined approach to portfolio management and capital rotation.
Exolum is a Spanish-headquartered global energy logistics company specialising in the transportation, storage and distribution of refined products, bulk liquids and aviation fuels, while also supporting the energy transition.
The company operates a 4,000-kilometre (km) pipeline network in Spain and a further 2,000 km network in the United Kingdom, alongside 68 storage terminals with more than 11 million cubic metres of capacity serving over 48 airports globally.
Following completion, Stoneshield Capital will assume three of OMERS’ board seats, while the second investor will take the remaining two.
-- BERNAMA
ABAXX LAUNCHES SILVER SINGAPORE FUTURES TRADING
KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Abaxx Technologies Inc (Abaxx), a financial software and market infrastructure company, announced that trading has commenced in Silver Singapore (SSP) futures, expanding Abaxx Exchange’s precious metals product suite.
The contract is designed to address the gap between global silver price formation and the physical requirements of Asia’s industrial silver market, where demand for higher-purity material is increasing across solar and advanced electronics supply chains.
By establishing a physically deliverable four-nines silver benchmark in Singapore, Abaxx SSP futures are intended to support more direct price discovery and hedging for commercial participants managing physical silver exposure in the region.
According to a statement, the Abaxx SSP futures contract is a United States dollar-denominated, 1,000-troy-ounce, physically deliverable product of 0.9999 fineness, with delivery into approved vaults in Singapore, including Brink’s Singapore.
Silver Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Michael DiRienzo said the launch marks a meaningful step forward for the global silver market, adding that Abaxx is addressing a long-standing gap in price discovery for Asia’s industrial silver users.
“The Silver Institute welcomes innovations that strengthen market infrastructure and give commercial participants better tools to manage their physical silver exposure,” he said.
SSP futures are available for trading from 10 am for 14 hours on weekdays, except Singapore public holidays.
-- BERNAMA
The contract is designed to address the gap between global silver price formation and the physical requirements of Asia’s industrial silver market, where demand for higher-purity material is increasing across solar and advanced electronics supply chains.
By establishing a physically deliverable four-nines silver benchmark in Singapore, Abaxx SSP futures are intended to support more direct price discovery and hedging for commercial participants managing physical silver exposure in the region.
According to a statement, the Abaxx SSP futures contract is a United States dollar-denominated, 1,000-troy-ounce, physically deliverable product of 0.9999 fineness, with delivery into approved vaults in Singapore, including Brink’s Singapore.
Silver Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Michael DiRienzo said the launch marks a meaningful step forward for the global silver market, adding that Abaxx is addressing a long-standing gap in price discovery for Asia’s industrial silver users.
“The Silver Institute welcomes innovations that strengthen market infrastructure and give commercial participants better tools to manage their physical silver exposure,” he said.
SSP futures are available for trading from 10 am for 14 hours on weekdays, except Singapore public holidays.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 22 May 2026
EMGA arranges USD 15m financing for Asia Alliance Bank from OeEB
LONDON, May 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP is delighted to announce yet another closing in Uzbekistan having secured funding from OeEB, the Development Bank of Austria, to support Asia Alliance Bank.
Commenting on the transaction, Asia Alliance Bank’s CEO, Mr. Umidjon Abduazimov, said: “This new USD 15 million facility represents an important step in the Bank’s ongoing development and will support the further expansion of financing for SMEs, women entrepreneurship, and green projects in Uzbekistan, which are becoming increasingly important across the country’s economy. The transaction also reflects the Bank’s continued growth, diversification of international funding sources, and commitment to supporting sustainable private sector development in Uzbekistan. At the same time, this cooperation demonstrates the growing confidence of international development finance institutions in both Asia Alliance Bank and Uzbekistan’s banking sector and economic potential overall.
Also commenting on the transaction, Sabine Gaber, CEO and Member of OeEB’s Executive Board, said “Our partnership with Asia Alliance Bank is a strong fit for us, as it combines three key priorities of our strategy: expanding access to finance for underserved MSMEs, advancing gender equality through support for women-owned businesses, and promoting green finance investments that contribute to a more sustainable economy. Through this investment, we aim to support long-term economic inclusion, resilience and job creation across Uzbekistan.”
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA)’s Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking Sajeev Chakkalakal said “It was a pleasure to work together on an initial transaction with AAB and enable this innovative financing for the MSME and green sectors within the Uzbek economy. Furthermore, we relished the opportunity to cooperate again with OeEB, who as a leading DFI have been a long-term repeat investor in our transactions globally.”
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA)’s Managing Director and Head of Operations, Jeremy Dobson commented “AAB is a fast-rising player in the highly competitive Uzbek banking sector, and we are proud to have enabled another step in their growth curve.”
Asia Alliance Bank (AAB) is a leading private commercial bank in Uzbekistan, providing a broad range of corporate, SME, trade finance, treasury, and retail banking services. Established in 2009, the bank has built a strong reputation for supporting entrepreneurship, international trade, and private sector development across the country. Asia Alliance Bank has received multiple international awards for SME financing and innovation and continues to expand its digital banking capabilities and international partnerships.
OeEB was founded in March 2008 as the development bank of the Republic of Austria. With a public mandate OeEB works for better living conditions in developing countries. OeEB is present in markets in which companies often have no or limited access to urgently needed capital, both credit and equity. Investments in these projects create jobs; these projects increase tax revenues and bring foreign currency into the country. OeEB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Oesterreichische Kontrollbank (OeKB).
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA), is an emerging markets investment banking boutique with offices in New York and London. It helps financial institutions and corporates as well as project finance sponsors that seek new debt or equity capital. EMGA provides its services, to clients within many of the world’s rapidly developing economies, including Uzbekistan which remains a key market. With a proven track record in capital formation and strategic advisory throughout diverse economic cycles, EMGA continues to expand its geographic reach and service offering, as it solidifies its place in the market as one of the industry’s preeminent emerging markets focused investment banks.
Contact info@emergingmarketsglobaladvisory.com
SOURCE: Emerging Markets Global Advisory
--BERNAMA
Commenting on the transaction, Asia Alliance Bank’s CEO, Mr. Umidjon Abduazimov, said: “This new USD 15 million facility represents an important step in the Bank’s ongoing development and will support the further expansion of financing for SMEs, women entrepreneurship, and green projects in Uzbekistan, which are becoming increasingly important across the country’s economy. The transaction also reflects the Bank’s continued growth, diversification of international funding sources, and commitment to supporting sustainable private sector development in Uzbekistan. At the same time, this cooperation demonstrates the growing confidence of international development finance institutions in both Asia Alliance Bank and Uzbekistan’s banking sector and economic potential overall.
Also commenting on the transaction, Sabine Gaber, CEO and Member of OeEB’s Executive Board, said “Our partnership with Asia Alliance Bank is a strong fit for us, as it combines three key priorities of our strategy: expanding access to finance for underserved MSMEs, advancing gender equality through support for women-owned businesses, and promoting green finance investments that contribute to a more sustainable economy. Through this investment, we aim to support long-term economic inclusion, resilience and job creation across Uzbekistan.”
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA)’s Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking Sajeev Chakkalakal said “It was a pleasure to work together on an initial transaction with AAB and enable this innovative financing for the MSME and green sectors within the Uzbek economy. Furthermore, we relished the opportunity to cooperate again with OeEB, who as a leading DFI have been a long-term repeat investor in our transactions globally.”
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA)’s Managing Director and Head of Operations, Jeremy Dobson commented “AAB is a fast-rising player in the highly competitive Uzbek banking sector, and we are proud to have enabled another step in their growth curve.”
Asia Alliance Bank (AAB) is a leading private commercial bank in Uzbekistan, providing a broad range of corporate, SME, trade finance, treasury, and retail banking services. Established in 2009, the bank has built a strong reputation for supporting entrepreneurship, international trade, and private sector development across the country. Asia Alliance Bank has received multiple international awards for SME financing and innovation and continues to expand its digital banking capabilities and international partnerships.
OeEB was founded in March 2008 as the development bank of the Republic of Austria. With a public mandate OeEB works for better living conditions in developing countries. OeEB is present in markets in which companies often have no or limited access to urgently needed capital, both credit and equity. Investments in these projects create jobs; these projects increase tax revenues and bring foreign currency into the country. OeEB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Oesterreichische Kontrollbank (OeKB).
Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA), is an emerging markets investment banking boutique with offices in New York and London. It helps financial institutions and corporates as well as project finance sponsors that seek new debt or equity capital. EMGA provides its services, to clients within many of the world’s rapidly developing economies, including Uzbekistan which remains a key market. With a proven track record in capital formation and strategic advisory throughout diverse economic cycles, EMGA continues to expand its geographic reach and service offering, as it solidifies its place in the market as one of the industry’s preeminent emerging markets focused investment banks.
Contact info@emergingmarketsglobaladvisory.com
SOURCE: Emerging Markets Global Advisory
--BERNAMA
Thursday, 21 May 2026
Kays + Kins Announces Grand Opening of First Flagship Store in Malaysia
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(L-R) Mr Adrian Cheah, General Manager of Marketing, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Mr. Lee Jia Wei, Founder of GAIAS Home, Mr. Tan Kien Yow and Ms. Karine Low, Founders of Kays + Kins, Ms. Katie Tan, Kays + Kins’ advisor, Ms. Irene Ong, Head of Retail of Kays + Kins |
KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 (Bernama) -- Kays + Kins, the comfort-driven, design-led lifestyle brand for modern families, has officially announced the opening of its first physical flagship store in Malaysia. Located at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, the new boutique marks an exciting milestone for the homegrown brand, previously only available online, offering customers a warm and personal space to experience its thoughtfully designed baby essentials firsthand.
Known for its elevated essentials made for practical baby wear, Kays + Kins has built a loyal following through its signature approach to comfort, quality and timeless design. Designed with South East Asia’s warm and humid climate in mind, the brand’s collections feature relaxed, non-body-hugging silhouettes and soft, breathable fabrics that support ease of movement and all-day comfort for babies and toddlers.
The opening of its first physical store brings the Kays + Kins experience to life beyond the digital space, giving customers the opportunity to feel the softness of its fabrics in person, discover the details behind its hand-painted prints, and shop in an environment that reflects the brand’s calm and intentional aesthetic.
“As we grew our brand in Malaysia, our community has always asked for a space where they can experience our fabrics in person and discover for themselves the details that make each piece special, such as the softness of our bamboo muslins and the hand-painted details of our prints,” says Karine Low, Founder of Kays + Kins.
“So with the opening of this physical store, we wanted to go beyond retail to create more personal experiences of the brand. We wanted a space where parents and gift-givers can take their time, feel the quality of our pieces, and find something that is both practical and beautiful for everyday family life,” she added.
At the heart of Kays + Kins is a comfort-first design philosophy. Each piece is created to feel gentle, breathable and easy to wear, especially in tropical weather. The brand’s fabric choices are selected not just for softness on first touch, but for how they continue to feel over time, remaining soft and comfortable even after repeated washes, making them especially suited for daily use.
This focus on thoughtful design also extends to the brand’s visual identity. Kays + Kins is known for its limited, hand-painted prints that are intentionally designed to feel timeless and distinctive, rather than mass-produced. Together with its understated colour palette and refined product styling, the brand offers a lifestyle sensibility that resonates with modern parents looking for baby essentials that are as beautiful as they are functional.
Beyond everyday wear, gifting plays a key part of the Kays + Kins brand experience. The flagship store is designed to support meaningful and even last-minute gifting moments, with a curated range of newborn gift sets, Bamboo Muslin Swaddles, signature two-way zipper Growsuits and Sleepsuits, customisable wooden keepsake boxes with personalised engraving services, and the exclusive Heritage Collection available only in-store. The ideal go-to place for baby showers, full-moon celebrations or simply welcoming a newborn, the store offers customers a thoughtful and convenient destination for gifts that feel personal and memorable.
The boutique itself features a minimalist, earthy-luxe interior inspired by nature, creating a calm and inviting environment for families and gift-givers alike.
While comfort, design and experience remain central to the brand, Kays + Kins also maintains a strong commitment to quality and responsible production. Its collections include GOTS-certified organic cotton and OEKO-TEX certified garments, providing parents with added assurance that every piece meets recognised standards for safety and care.
To celebrate its opening, Kays + Kins is offering 20% off the purchase of three items as part of its Grand Opening promotion. Running till 30 April 2026, the promotion is applicable to all products except Bundle Deals.
For further information about Kays + Kins and its product offerings, please visit kaysandkins.com.
About Kays + Kins
At Kays + Kins, comfort always comes first. We design everyday babywear to feel as good as it looks — gentle on delicate skin, breathable, and made to support real parenting moments.
Functionality is thoughtfully built into every detail, from easy-to-wear silhouettes to durable fabrics that move with your baby. Beyond clothing, we extend this same care to gifting — creating beautiful newborn gifts that are meaningful, practical, and made for everyday comfort.
Each season features unique, limited-edition prints, hand-illustrated and released in small quantities, making every piece quietly special and distinctive.
Made with GOTS-certified organic fabrics, Kays + Kins pieces prioritise softness, safety, and sustainability — offering babies comfort, beauty, and care from the very beginning.
Issued on behalf of Kays + Kins by GO Communications Sdn Bhd.
SOURCE: Kays + Kins Malaysia
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Tel: +603-2711 9566
Email: hello@kaysandkins.com
GO Communications Sdn Bhd
Name: Amanda Yee
Senior Brand Executive
Tel: +6016 319 2629
Email: amandayee@gocomm.com.my
Name: Choulyin Tan
Chief Operating Officer
Tel: +6016 856 7286
Eamil: choulyin@gocomm.com.my
--BERNAMA
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Union Insurance Company Limited
HONG KONG, May 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Union Insurance Company Limited (Union) (Taiwan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings reflect Union’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).
Union’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), which was at the strongest level as of year-end 2025. AM Best expects Union’s risk-adjusted capitalisation to remain at the strongest level over the intermediate term, supported by partial retention of positive operating earnings. Union’s regulatory solvency capital is expected to maintain a healthy capital buffer above the minimum requirements. Other supporting factors include a comprehensive reinsurance programme, favourable financial flexibility, and a consistent investment strategy.
Union reported stable operating results in 2025, with a return on adjusted capital and surplus of 11.8%, based on AM Best’s calculations. The company’s top-line performance has remained stable, despite posting a slightly lower-than-average premium growth rate in its voluntary motor segment. Union has refined its underwriting strategy to improve profitability and actively expanded its business offerings including accident and health (A&H) and commercial liability. Underwriting profitability has improved consistently, with a record low net combined ratio of 91.1% in 2025, as calculated by AM Best. The company recorded a net investment yield of 3.0% (including capital gains and losses) last year, which was impacted moderately by foreign exchange volatility. Going forward, AM Best expects Union to maintain its asset allocation strategy with a focus on domestic fixed-income and equity investments to generate stable investment returns.
Union is a medium-sized insurer in Taiwan’s non-life market and ranked eighth in 2025, based on direct premiums written. Similar to other companies in the market, Union’s underwriting portfolio is diversified moderately but slightly skewed toward motor insurance, with its other key business lines being the commercial fire, liability, and A&H segments. The company has maintained a well-diversified distribution mix, with major business contributors being car dealers, the direct channel, and brokers. Union’s ERM is considered appropriate to support its risk profile.
Negative rating actions could occur if there is a material deterioration in Union’s operating performance. Positive rating actions may occur due to a sustained improvement in the company’s operating performance. While deemed unlikely over the near term, positive rating actions could arise if Union’s balance sheet strength fundamentals improve favourably.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2026 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260520635907/en/
Contact
Madison Fan
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3416
madison.fan@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
The ratings reflect Union’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).
Union’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), which was at the strongest level as of year-end 2025. AM Best expects Union’s risk-adjusted capitalisation to remain at the strongest level over the intermediate term, supported by partial retention of positive operating earnings. Union’s regulatory solvency capital is expected to maintain a healthy capital buffer above the minimum requirements. Other supporting factors include a comprehensive reinsurance programme, favourable financial flexibility, and a consistent investment strategy.
Union reported stable operating results in 2025, with a return on adjusted capital and surplus of 11.8%, based on AM Best’s calculations. The company’s top-line performance has remained stable, despite posting a slightly lower-than-average premium growth rate in its voluntary motor segment. Union has refined its underwriting strategy to improve profitability and actively expanded its business offerings including accident and health (A&H) and commercial liability. Underwriting profitability has improved consistently, with a record low net combined ratio of 91.1% in 2025, as calculated by AM Best. The company recorded a net investment yield of 3.0% (including capital gains and losses) last year, which was impacted moderately by foreign exchange volatility. Going forward, AM Best expects Union to maintain its asset allocation strategy with a focus on domestic fixed-income and equity investments to generate stable investment returns.
Union is a medium-sized insurer in Taiwan’s non-life market and ranked eighth in 2025, based on direct premiums written. Similar to other companies in the market, Union’s underwriting portfolio is diversified moderately but slightly skewed toward motor insurance, with its other key business lines being the commercial fire, liability, and A&H segments. The company has maintained a well-diversified distribution mix, with major business contributors being car dealers, the direct channel, and brokers. Union’s ERM is considered appropriate to support its risk profile.
Negative rating actions could occur if there is a material deterioration in Union’s operating performance. Positive rating actions may occur due to a sustained improvement in the company’s operating performance. While deemed unlikely over the near term, positive rating actions could arise if Union’s balance sheet strength fundamentals improve favourably.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2026 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260520635907/en/
Contact
Madison Fan
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3416
madison.fan@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
Bitget Launches “Gold Fast or Go Home Challenge” for Gold CFD Trading
VICTORIA, Seychelles, May 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched the “Gold Fast or Go Home Challenge,” a global campaign built around faster access to gold CFD trading on the Bitget app. The campaign follows Bitget’s recent product update that moved TradFi products, including gold, forex, commodities, and indices, to a first-level homepage tab, reducing the number of steps required to access these markets directly from the homepage.
The challenge invites users to record themselves by opening the Bitget app, entering the TradFi section, and completing an XAUUSD gold CFD trade as quickly as possible. Participants will publish their attempts across social platforms as part of a global speed-based trading challenge designed around accessibility, execution flow, and real-time market participation. The campaign combines trading culture with short-form social content, turning product speed into a visible user experience.
The campaign reflects Bitget’s broader direction of bringing traditional financial assets closer to crypto-native trading environments through a unified interface. Users can move between crypto assets, tokenized products, forex pairs, commodities, and gold CFD markets from a single account structure without switching across multiple platforms, wallets, or trading systems.
“Users increasingly move between crypto and traditional financial markets within the same trading cycle, especially during periods shaped by macro volatility,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “We have designed the platform to make these markets more directly accessible inside the app. The challenge turns that trading flow into a public and community-driven experience that shows how multi-asset trading behavior is evolving.”
Gold trading activity has continued gaining traction globally as investors monitor interest rate expectations, central bank accumulation trends, inflation risks, and geopolitical uncertainty. Across digital asset platforms, gold CFDs have become one of the most actively monitored TradFi products during periods of elevated volatility, particularly as users look for faster access to macro-sensitive assets without leaving crypto-native trading environments.
The homepage TradFi integration forms part of Bitget’s wider Universal Exchange strategy focused on reducing fragmentation between digital assets and traditional financial markets. As more users diversify across asset classes, trading platforms are increasingly expected to support crypto, commodities, equities, FX, and tokenized assets within a single interface and collateral system. Bitget’s TradFi expansion reflects growing market demand for unified multi-asset access and faster capital movement between trading categories.
The launch also follows Bitget’s continued expansion of its TradFi offering across global markets. The platform currently provides access to crypto markets alongside tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, forex pairs, and precious metals such as gold within one trading ecosystem. In 2026, Bitget repositioned its TradFi section to the app homepage as part of a broader effort to simplify market access and improve execution efficiency across multi-asset trading activity.
For more information, visit here.
About Bitget
Bitget is the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships with LALIGA and MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry’s lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3484ccd0-5df8-4c93-91cb-c0bdf7495349
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
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
The challenge invites users to record themselves by opening the Bitget app, entering the TradFi section, and completing an XAUUSD gold CFD trade as quickly as possible. Participants will publish their attempts across social platforms as part of a global speed-based trading challenge designed around accessibility, execution flow, and real-time market participation. The campaign combines trading culture with short-form social content, turning product speed into a visible user experience.
The campaign reflects Bitget’s broader direction of bringing traditional financial assets closer to crypto-native trading environments through a unified interface. Users can move between crypto assets, tokenized products, forex pairs, commodities, and gold CFD markets from a single account structure without switching across multiple platforms, wallets, or trading systems.
“Users increasingly move between crypto and traditional financial markets within the same trading cycle, especially during periods shaped by macro volatility,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “We have designed the platform to make these markets more directly accessible inside the app. The challenge turns that trading flow into a public and community-driven experience that shows how multi-asset trading behavior is evolving.”
Gold trading activity has continued gaining traction globally as investors monitor interest rate expectations, central bank accumulation trends, inflation risks, and geopolitical uncertainty. Across digital asset platforms, gold CFDs have become one of the most actively monitored TradFi products during periods of elevated volatility, particularly as users look for faster access to macro-sensitive assets without leaving crypto-native trading environments.
The homepage TradFi integration forms part of Bitget’s wider Universal Exchange strategy focused on reducing fragmentation between digital assets and traditional financial markets. As more users diversify across asset classes, trading platforms are increasingly expected to support crypto, commodities, equities, FX, and tokenized assets within a single interface and collateral system. Bitget’s TradFi expansion reflects growing market demand for unified multi-asset access and faster capital movement between trading categories.
The launch also follows Bitget’s continued expansion of its TradFi offering across global markets. The platform currently provides access to crypto markets alongside tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, forex pairs, and precious metals such as gold within one trading ecosystem. In 2026, Bitget repositioned its TradFi section to the app homepage as part of a broader effort to simplify market access and improve execution efficiency across multi-asset trading activity.
For more information, visit here.
About Bitget
Bitget is the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships with LALIGA and MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry’s lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3484ccd0-5df8-4c93-91cb-c0bdf7495349
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
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
Wednesday, 20 May 2026
PRIMER SECURES US$100 MLN FUNDING FOR AI, US EXPANSION
 |
| Primer leadership team pictured left to right. Top row: Pierre-Edouard Jumel (CFO), Gabriel Le Roux (Co-Founder and CEO), Sam Elgar (VP Merchant Experience) and Theo Spyrides (VP Product). Bottom row: Caitriona Staunton (VP People), Alex Mallet (CTO), Jade Maitland (VP Marketing) and Mikael Minvielle (COO). |
KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- Primer, the unified infrastructure for global payments, has secured a US$100 million Series C funding round as it expands its artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled operating layer for global payments and finance. (US$1=RM3.97)
The funding round was led by Sofina, with participation from Peak XV Partners and continued backing from existing investors, including Balderton Capital, Accel, ICONIQ Capital, Tencent, and Speedinvest.
In a statement, Primer said the new funding will support expanded investment in AI capabilities, including the development of its proprietary AI agent, Primer Companion.
The company said Primer Companion is already being used by merchants to address payment-related queries and generate contextual insights, with future capabilities expected to include autonomous experimentation, performance optimisation, and execution within merchant-defined parameters.
Primer said fragmented payment data across processors, acquirers, and fraud tools remains a major challenge for businesses seeking to deploy AI-driven payment systems effectively.
Founded in 2020, the company said its unified payments infrastructure captures more than 400 data points per transaction and manages more than 95 per cent of customer payment volume on average.
According to Primer, the United States (US) currently accounts for around one-fifth of company revenue, with annual recurring revenue in the region doubling year-on-year.
The company plans to increase US revenue to more than one-third of its business by 2028 and expects to hire up to 50 employees in the region to support its expansion strategy.
-- BERNAMA
SAMSUNG BIOEPIS LAUNCHES FIRST PRODUCT IN JAPAN UNDER NIPRO PARTNERSHIP
KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- Samsung Bioepis Co Ltd has launched Ustekinumab BS 45 mg Syringe for S.C. Injection「 NIPRO」, a biosimilar referencing Stelara (ustekinumab), marking its first product launch in Japan with NIPRO Corporation (NIPRO).
According to Samsung Bioepis in a statement, the launch follows the product’s listing under Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) Drug Price Standard, which became effective following an Official Gazette announcement on May 19.
“Together with our partner NIPRO, we look forward to supporting patients living with autoimmune diseases and contributing to the sustainability of Japan's healthcare system by providing quality-assured, safe and effective biosimilar options,” said Samsung Bioepis Vice President and Head of Commercial Strategy for International Markets, Jinhan Chung.
Ustekinumab is a human immunoglobulin G1 kappa monoclonal antibody designed to prevent abnormal regulation of IL-12 and IL-23 associated with immune-mediated diseases.
Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency granted marketing authorisation for the product in December 2025 for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Samsung Bioepis said it formed a strategic partnership with NIPRO in June 2025 to develop and commercialise multiple biosimilar candidates in Japan, including ustekinumab.
The company added that its ustekinumab biosimilar is already available under different brand names across the European Union, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
-- BERNAMA
According to Samsung Bioepis in a statement, the launch follows the product’s listing under Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) Drug Price Standard, which became effective following an Official Gazette announcement on May 19.
“Together with our partner NIPRO, we look forward to supporting patients living with autoimmune diseases and contributing to the sustainability of Japan's healthcare system by providing quality-assured, safe and effective biosimilar options,” said Samsung Bioepis Vice President and Head of Commercial Strategy for International Markets, Jinhan Chung.
Ustekinumab is a human immunoglobulin G1 kappa monoclonal antibody designed to prevent abnormal regulation of IL-12 and IL-23 associated with immune-mediated diseases.
Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency granted marketing authorisation for the product in December 2025 for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Samsung Bioepis said it formed a strategic partnership with NIPRO in June 2025 to develop and commercialise multiple biosimilar candidates in Japan, including ustekinumab.
The company added that its ustekinumab biosimilar is already available under different brand names across the European Union, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
-- BERNAMA
CLOUDFLARE, ANTHROPIC TO PROVIDE SECURE, SCALABLE FOUNDATION FOR AUTONOMOUS AI
KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- Cloudflare Inc, the leading connectivity cloud company, is collaborating with Anthropic to launch Cloudflare Environments for Claude Managed Agents, aimed at providing a secure and scalable foundation for autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) agents.
The integration enables organisations to run core agent loops on Anthropic’s Claude platform while leveraging Cloudflare’s global network and Workers developer platform to execute code, secure private connections, and equip agents with specialised tools.
Cloudflare in a statement said the platform is designed to help developers build next-generation AI assistants quickly and securely at a global scale.
Cloudflare co-founder and chief executive officer, Matthew Prince said the partnership would enable businesses to securely execute code and access private data using Cloudflare’s network infrastructure.
“Now, businesses can focus on building the most innovative AI applications on the planet,” he said.
According to Cloudflare, the platform provides secure sandboxes for every AI agent session through a Workers-based control plane, while security and compliance controls are automatically applied.
The company said the infrastructure allows organisations to maintain strict security standards while scaling AI initiatives from prototypes to large-scale deployments without infrastructure bottlenecks.
Cloudflare Environments for Claude Managed Agents also enables developers to scale globally with diverse runtimes, secure sensitive data through Zero-Trust connectivity, audit agent behaviour using native observability tools, and extend agent capabilities through customisable frameworks.
The launch of Cloudflare Environments marks the latest milestone in its ongoing collaboration with Anthropic to strengthen AI connectivity and infrastructure capabilities.
-- BERNAMA
The integration enables organisations to run core agent loops on Anthropic’s Claude platform while leveraging Cloudflare’s global network and Workers developer platform to execute code, secure private connections, and equip agents with specialised tools.
Cloudflare in a statement said the platform is designed to help developers build next-generation AI assistants quickly and securely at a global scale.
Cloudflare co-founder and chief executive officer, Matthew Prince said the partnership would enable businesses to securely execute code and access private data using Cloudflare’s network infrastructure.
“Now, businesses can focus on building the most innovative AI applications on the planet,” he said.
According to Cloudflare, the platform provides secure sandboxes for every AI agent session through a Workers-based control plane, while security and compliance controls are automatically applied.
The company said the infrastructure allows organisations to maintain strict security standards while scaling AI initiatives from prototypes to large-scale deployments without infrastructure bottlenecks.
Cloudflare Environments for Claude Managed Agents also enables developers to scale globally with diverse runtimes, secure sensitive data through Zero-Trust connectivity, audit agent behaviour using native observability tools, and extend agent capabilities through customisable frameworks.
The launch of Cloudflare Environments marks the latest milestone in its ongoing collaboration with Anthropic to strengthen AI connectivity and infrastructure capabilities.
-- BERNAMA
HACK THE BOX HIGHLIGHTS AI CYBERSECURITY SKILLS SHIFT
KUALA LUMPUR, May 20 (Bernama) -- Hack The Box, the global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) cybersecurity readiness, has released its Cybersecurity Workforce Intelligence Report, highlighting how AI is reshaping cybersecurity skills, career paths, and team structures globally.
Based on anonymised data from more than 702,000 cybersecurity professionals across 251 countries and territories, the report found growing demand for advanced AI-related skills and more integrated cybersecurity team models.
The findings suggest that as AI transforms both cyberattacks and defence strategies, the effectiveness of organisations will increasingly depend on workforce adaptability, readiness, and cross-functional expertise rather than technology alone.
According to Hack The Box in a statement, organisations are accelerating investments in AI security capabilities, with AI penetration testing emerging as a leading global training priority.
Cybersecurity practitioners are also placing greater focus on risks such as prompt injection, model exploitation, and agentic AI attacks, reflecting changing approaches to workforce preparation.
The report noted that traditional role boundaries are becoming less rigid, with growing overlap between offensive and defensive cybersecurity training supporting a more collaborative “purple-team” model.
Structured hands-on training programmes are accelerating this transition, with AI-focused training completion rates reaching 64 per cent, reinforcing the role of organisation-led learning in building advanced cybersecurity capabilities.
To remain effective in an AI-driven environment, the report said security leaders should prioritise AI security skills, expand global talent pipelines, invest in integrated training models, and commit to continuous workforce upskilling.
-- BERNAMA
Based on anonymised data from more than 702,000 cybersecurity professionals across 251 countries and territories, the report found growing demand for advanced AI-related skills and more integrated cybersecurity team models.
The findings suggest that as AI transforms both cyberattacks and defence strategies, the effectiveness of organisations will increasingly depend on workforce adaptability, readiness, and cross-functional expertise rather than technology alone.
According to Hack The Box in a statement, organisations are accelerating investments in AI security capabilities, with AI penetration testing emerging as a leading global training priority.
Cybersecurity practitioners are also placing greater focus on risks such as prompt injection, model exploitation, and agentic AI attacks, reflecting changing approaches to workforce preparation.
The report noted that traditional role boundaries are becoming less rigid, with growing overlap between offensive and defensive cybersecurity training supporting a more collaborative “purple-team” model.
Structured hands-on training programmes are accelerating this transition, with AI-focused training completion rates reaching 64 per cent, reinforcing the role of organisation-led learning in building advanced cybersecurity capabilities.
To remain effective in an AI-driven environment, the report said security leaders should prioritise AI security skills, expand global talent pipelines, invest in integrated training models, and commit to continuous workforce upskilling.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 19 May 2026
T&E Report Ranks Singapore Changi Among Most Carbon-Intensive Airports
KUALA LUMPUR, May 18 (Bernama) -- Transport & Environment (T&E) and ODI Global announced that Singapore Changi Airport ranked ninth among the world’s most carbon-intensive airports in 2023, generating 14.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.
The findings were published in the 2026 Airport Tracker, which analysed 1,300 airports globally using data from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT).
T&E Regional Policy and Program Director, APAC, Jude Lee said transparent disclosure of aviation emissions would become increasingly important as Singapore positions itself as a hub for sustainable finance and future aviation fuels.
"The race among global aviation hubs is no longer just about passenger volumes. It is increasingly about who can demonstrate the most credible, MRV-backed decarbonisation pathway," said Lee in a statement.
Meanwhile, ODI Global Research Associate, Sam Pickard said aviation emissions had continued to rise since the Paris Agreement despite decarbonisation efforts in other sectors.
According to the report, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region became the world’s largest contributor to aviation emissions, accounting for 32 per cent of global aviation-related CO₂ emissions — more than Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa combined.
The report also stated that the world’s top 100 airports were responsible for about two-thirds of total passenger flight emissions, while fewer than 2.3 per cent of airports had credible net-zero Scope 3 emissions plans.
The report comes as the European Union considers extending carbon pricing to all departing international flights, a move the organisations said could increase pressure on aviation hubs to strengthen decarbonisation measures.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 15 May 2026
MOBIX LABS TARGETS CRITICAL MINERALS SUPPLY CHAIN WITH SPD DEAL
KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Mobix Labs has unveiled plans to expand into the strategic rare earth and critical minerals sector through a proposed acquisition of Special Project Delivery LLC (SPD), a United States (US)-based supply chain platform.
According to a statement, the proposed acquisition would expand Mobix Labs’ national security operations into the supply chain supporting modern defence, aerospace, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Mobix Labs currently supplies technologies for US and allied fighter jets, missiles, submarines, and satellites.
The company said the Letter of Intent is non-binding, and there can be no assurance that a definitive agreement will be executed or the proposed transaction completed.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, the proposed acquisition would expand Mobix Labs’ national security operations into the supply chain supporting modern defence, aerospace, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Mobix Labs currently supplies technologies for US and allied fighter jets, missiles, submarines, and satellites.
The company said the Letter of Intent is non-binding, and there can be no assurance that a definitive agreement will be executed or the proposed transaction completed.
-- BERNAMA
MARY KAY LAUNCHES GLOBAL SOCIAL SQUAD PILOT PROGRAM TO STRENGTHEN DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT
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| The Global Social Squad ignites a diverse and talented group of 73 Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants with representation across 15 markets in four regions: North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Europe. These digital leaders create engaging, high-quality content, participate in global campaign activations, and share practical social media strategies with their communities and other Independent Beauty Consultants, fuelling both brand relevance and business growth. (Image Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.) |
KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Mary Kay Inc has launched its Global Social Squad (GSS) Pilot Program, an initiative aimed at strengthening digital engagement by empowering Independent Beauty Consultants (IBCs) as brand advocates and social media content creators.
The programme, which will be introduced in selected markets worldwide in 2026, is part of the company’s broader strategy to expand its presence in an increasingly social-first business environment and enhance engagement with consumers across digital platforms.
According to Mary Kay, the GSS brings together IBCs who are recognised for their creativity, authenticity and social media capabilities to produce digital content, participate in global campaigns, and share social media strategies with their communities and fellow consultants.
Mary Kay Chief Opportunity and Sales Officer, Tara Eustace said the programme is intended to help consultants strengthen digital storytelling and consumer engagement in a social-first business environment.
In a statement, the company said the initiative is also expected to support brand visibility, increase product discovery through user-generated content, and strengthen peer-to-peer learning within the Mary Kay community.
A total of 73 members have been selected for the pilot programme, representing 15 markets across North America, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Europe.
Participants will receive exclusive merchandise, take part in content-based challenges, and gain access to training and development opportunities throughout the year.
Mary Kay said the pilot programme will allow the company to evaluate and refine the initiative ahead of a potential wider rollout beginning in 2027 and beyond.
The global leader in beauty and entrepreneurship added that the programme forms part of its efforts to develop a scalable business model that combines entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal connection.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 13 May 2026
Green Building Initiative Announces Departure of CEO Vicki Worden
Vicki Worden, CAE, led GBI to achieve tremendous growth during her 11-year tenure; The Honorable Stephen T. Ayers, FAIA, appointed as GBI Interim CEO
PORTLAND, Ore., May 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Green Building Initiative (GBI) is announcing the planned departure of its CEO, Vicki Worden. Worden is leaving to take a new CEO role after serving as GBI’s chief executive since 2015. GBI is an international nonprofit organization and ANSI accredited standards developer that operates virtually with a 30-member staff.
“Vicki Worden’s tenure has been defined by an unwavering commitment to expanding GBI’s mission impact,” stated Sumayyah Theron, Chair of GBI’s Board of Directors and CEO and Founder of Avant-garde Sustainable Solutions. “Under Vicki’s leadership, GBI evolved from a U.S.-focused organization into a truly global presence, now serving members in more than 20 countries. Her vision and dedication helped GBI’s green building standards reach more than one billion square feet of certified commercial and multifamily space worldwide and positioned GBI as a leading certifier across multifamily housing, health care facilities, data centers, and beyond. We are deeply grateful for everything Vicki has brought to this organization and wish her great success as she continues to advance mission-driven leadership.”
GBI’s mission is to improve the built environment’s impact on climate and society. Its community of 15,000 is united by a vision of sustainable, healthy, and resilient buildings for all.
Prior to her leadership at GBI, Worden’s experience included interim CEO roles and senior executive roles in the Washington, D.C., association community as well as more than ten years running her own strategic management consulting firm based in Maryland and Maine. She has been a significant force in sustainability and built environment spaces for more than 30 years.
“I am deeply grateful for the partnership of GBI’s Board members over my eleven years and for our joint commitment to meaningful growth,” stated Worden. “GBI is known for its culture of service, collaboration, transparency, and teamwork, and it is a culture we built intentionally to support our vision and mission. It has been an honor to serve alongside GBI’s highly passionate members, assessors, clients, and staff. I know I’m leaving GBI in great hands as it continues to advance and increase its positive impact in its next evolution.”
Worden’s departure is slated for late June 2026, and a consulting firm will be engaged to manage the search for Worden’s permanent replacement.
For the transition period, GBI’s Board has appointed The Honorable Stephen T. Ayers, FAIA, as GBI’s Interim CEO. Ayers is a nationally recognized leader in architecture, public service, and organizational transformation, with a distinguished career spanning government, nonprofit, and private sector roles. He most recently has served in multiple interim chief executive roles, including Interim CEO of the National Institute of Building Sciences (twice, in 2022 and 2024) and Interim CEO of the American Institute of Architects in 2025, where he provided steady leadership during pivotal transition periods and helped position each organization for long-term success. Mr. Ayers previously served as the 11th Architect of the Capitol, appointed by Barack Obama and unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate.
About GBI
GBI, Inc. is an international nonprofit organization and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Accredited Standards Developer whose mission is to improve the built environment’s impact on climate and society. Founded in 2004, the organization is the global provider of the Green Globes®, Journey to Net Zero™, Guiding Principles Compliance™, and Ascent Building Certification™ programs, and it is the parent company of GB Initiative Canada. GBI also issues professional credentials, including the Green Globes Professional (GGP) and Guiding Principles Compliance Professional (GPCP). To learn more about opportunities to become involved with GBI, contact info@thegbi.org or visit the GBI website at www.thegbi.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Joe Kurle, Director of Marketing & Communications, GBI jkurle@thegbi.org
SOURCE: Green Building Initiative
PORTLAND, Ore., May 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Green Building Initiative (GBI) is announcing the planned departure of its CEO, Vicki Worden. Worden is leaving to take a new CEO role after serving as GBI’s chief executive since 2015. GBI is an international nonprofit organization and ANSI accredited standards developer that operates virtually with a 30-member staff.
“Vicki Worden’s tenure has been defined by an unwavering commitment to expanding GBI’s mission impact,” stated Sumayyah Theron, Chair of GBI’s Board of Directors and CEO and Founder of Avant-garde Sustainable Solutions. “Under Vicki’s leadership, GBI evolved from a U.S.-focused organization into a truly global presence, now serving members in more than 20 countries. Her vision and dedication helped GBI’s green building standards reach more than one billion square feet of certified commercial and multifamily space worldwide and positioned GBI as a leading certifier across multifamily housing, health care facilities, data centers, and beyond. We are deeply grateful for everything Vicki has brought to this organization and wish her great success as she continues to advance mission-driven leadership.”
GBI’s mission is to improve the built environment’s impact on climate and society. Its community of 15,000 is united by a vision of sustainable, healthy, and resilient buildings for all.
Prior to her leadership at GBI, Worden’s experience included interim CEO roles and senior executive roles in the Washington, D.C., association community as well as more than ten years running her own strategic management consulting firm based in Maryland and Maine. She has been a significant force in sustainability and built environment spaces for more than 30 years.
“I am deeply grateful for the partnership of GBI’s Board members over my eleven years and for our joint commitment to meaningful growth,” stated Worden. “GBI is known for its culture of service, collaboration, transparency, and teamwork, and it is a culture we built intentionally to support our vision and mission. It has been an honor to serve alongside GBI’s highly passionate members, assessors, clients, and staff. I know I’m leaving GBI in great hands as it continues to advance and increase its positive impact in its next evolution.”
Worden’s departure is slated for late June 2026, and a consulting firm will be engaged to manage the search for Worden’s permanent replacement.
For the transition period, GBI’s Board has appointed The Honorable Stephen T. Ayers, FAIA, as GBI’s Interim CEO. Ayers is a nationally recognized leader in architecture, public service, and organizational transformation, with a distinguished career spanning government, nonprofit, and private sector roles. He most recently has served in multiple interim chief executive roles, including Interim CEO of the National Institute of Building Sciences (twice, in 2022 and 2024) and Interim CEO of the American Institute of Architects in 2025, where he provided steady leadership during pivotal transition periods and helped position each organization for long-term success. Mr. Ayers previously served as the 11th Architect of the Capitol, appointed by Barack Obama and unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate.
About GBI
GBI, Inc. is an international nonprofit organization and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Accredited Standards Developer whose mission is to improve the built environment’s impact on climate and society. Founded in 2004, the organization is the global provider of the Green Globes®, Journey to Net Zero™, Guiding Principles Compliance™, and Ascent Building Certification™ programs, and it is the parent company of GB Initiative Canada. GBI also issues professional credentials, including the Green Globes Professional (GGP) and Guiding Principles Compliance Professional (GPCP). To learn more about opportunities to become involved with GBI, contact info@thegbi.org or visit the GBI website at www.thegbi.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Joe Kurle, Director of Marketing & Communications, GBI jkurle@thegbi.org
SOURCE: Green Building Initiative
Tuesday, 12 May 2026
PDI Technologies, The Retail Marketeers Honour Six Women In Europe’s Convenience Retail, Mobility Sectors
KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 (Bernama) -- PDI Technologies and The Retail Marketeers announced the recipients of the 2026 European Female Leaders in Convenience Awards, recognising women leaders in Europe’s convenience retail and mobility sectors.
Presented by PDI Technologies for the second consecutive year, the awards programme honours executives for leadership, innovation and strategic contributions across the industry, according to a statement.
The initiative builds on the inaugural 2025 programme and aims to increase visibility for women in senior leadership positions as the sector navigates digital transformation, changing consumer behaviour and the energy transition.
The recipients were selected by a nomination committee and judging panel chaired by PDI Technologies executive vice president and general manager, International, Dawn Desai, and The Retail Marketeers owner and managing director, Christian Warning.
Desai said the programme highlights leadership combining operational performance, strategic direction and customer-focused innovation during a period of industry transformation.
Meanwhile, Warning said the awards recognise the growing role of women leaders in shaping the future of the convenience and mobility sectors across Europe.
The 2026 recipients are Agnieszka Bobrukiewicz, Alicia Cruzado Lopez, Louise Eckford, Judy Glover, Zsuzsa Hordai and Anna Wallenberg.
Together, the 2026 honourees represent a cross-section of Europe’s convenience and mobility industries, spanning fuel retail, hospitality, merchandising and strategic operations.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Nov 11 during The Retail Marketeers Convenience Leaders Convention 2026 in Hamburg, Germany.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 11 May 2026
AM Best Assigns Credit Ratings to Tokio Marine Newa Insurance Co., Ltd.
HONG KONG, May 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has assigned a Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and a Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a+” (Excellent) to Tokio Marine Newa Insurance Co., Ltd. (TMNewa) (Taiwan). The outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings reflect TMNewa’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. The ratings also factor in the rating enhancement from its parent, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (TMNF), which is the main insurance operating entity of Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.
Established in 1999 by Yulon Group, a major automobile conglomerate in Taiwan, and later partnered with Tokio Marine Group, TMNewa is the fourth largest non-life insurer in Taiwan, with a 7.6% market share in 2025. TMNF is currently the controlling shareholder with a 50.18% stake, while Yulon Group has a collective shareholding of 49.48% via its subsidiaries, namely China Motor Co., Ltd., Yulon Motor Co., Ltd. and Yulon Finance Co., Ltd. Leveraging Yulon Group’s extensive network of car dealers, motor insurance is the largest product line in TMNewa’s underwriting book, constituting approximately 70% of gross premiums written in 2025, followed by other key products including commercial fire, casualty, and accident and health.
TMNewa’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), was assessed at the strongest level at year-end 2025, and is expected to further improve over the short to intermediate term. The company’s capital and surplus (C&S) has grown robustly through full profit retention, in addition to significant recovery from four rounds of material capital injections from shareholders in 2022 and 2023, after experiencing material underwriting loss from pandemic-related products. Other supporting factors include a conservative investment portfolio heavily weighted toward cash and high-quality fixed-income investments, financial flexibility from shareholders and supportive liquidity.
AM Best views TMNewa’s operating performance as adequate, as demonstrated by a track record of favourable operating performance, apart from a one-time underwriting loss in 2022. The company reported modest top-line growth in 2025, partially attributed to slower expansion in the major motor and commercial fire lines, following a period of double-digit expansion between 2022 and 2024. The return on equity (based on adjusted C&S) was 25.7% in 2025, supported by an improved net loss ratio, due to continued control over claims experience in two major product lines. The expense ratio benefits from the company’s sustained control over management expenses and commissions, along with the increased scale, and remains below the market average. The company’s investment portfolio continues to generate favourable results, supported by steady income streams from interest and dividend. Going forward, TMNewa is targeting profitable growth in non-motor business lines, including fire and liability insurance for small to medium-sized enterprises, while being disciplined on large commercial risks.
As a subsidiary of TMNF, the company receives various implicit support from TMNF, including management oversight, risk framework and governance, underwriting know-how, product development, investment and innovation.
Negative rating actions could occur if there is a material deterioration in TMNewa’s balance sheet strength assessment. Negative rating actions also could arise if there is a reduced level of support from the parent company, which may have a negative impact on TMNewa’s ratings. Although it is unlikely in the near term, positive rating actions could occur if TMNewa is able to achieve sustained improvement in its operating performance, while its balance sheet strength fundamentals remain robust.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2026 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260508631820/en/
Contact
Stephanie Mi
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3402
stephanie.mi@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
The ratings reflect TMNewa’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. The ratings also factor in the rating enhancement from its parent, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (TMNF), which is the main insurance operating entity of Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.
Established in 1999 by Yulon Group, a major automobile conglomerate in Taiwan, and later partnered with Tokio Marine Group, TMNewa is the fourth largest non-life insurer in Taiwan, with a 7.6% market share in 2025. TMNF is currently the controlling shareholder with a 50.18% stake, while Yulon Group has a collective shareholding of 49.48% via its subsidiaries, namely China Motor Co., Ltd., Yulon Motor Co., Ltd. and Yulon Finance Co., Ltd. Leveraging Yulon Group’s extensive network of car dealers, motor insurance is the largest product line in TMNewa’s underwriting book, constituting approximately 70% of gross premiums written in 2025, followed by other key products including commercial fire, casualty, and accident and health.
TMNewa’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), was assessed at the strongest level at year-end 2025, and is expected to further improve over the short to intermediate term. The company’s capital and surplus (C&S) has grown robustly through full profit retention, in addition to significant recovery from four rounds of material capital injections from shareholders in 2022 and 2023, after experiencing material underwriting loss from pandemic-related products. Other supporting factors include a conservative investment portfolio heavily weighted toward cash and high-quality fixed-income investments, financial flexibility from shareholders and supportive liquidity.
AM Best views TMNewa’s operating performance as adequate, as demonstrated by a track record of favourable operating performance, apart from a one-time underwriting loss in 2022. The company reported modest top-line growth in 2025, partially attributed to slower expansion in the major motor and commercial fire lines, following a period of double-digit expansion between 2022 and 2024. The return on equity (based on adjusted C&S) was 25.7% in 2025, supported by an improved net loss ratio, due to continued control over claims experience in two major product lines. The expense ratio benefits from the company’s sustained control over management expenses and commissions, along with the increased scale, and remains below the market average. The company’s investment portfolio continues to generate favourable results, supported by steady income streams from interest and dividend. Going forward, TMNewa is targeting profitable growth in non-motor business lines, including fire and liability insurance for small to medium-sized enterprises, while being disciplined on large commercial risks.
As a subsidiary of TMNF, the company receives various implicit support from TMNF, including management oversight, risk framework and governance, underwriting know-how, product development, investment and innovation.
Negative rating actions could occur if there is a material deterioration in TMNewa’s balance sheet strength assessment. Negative rating actions also could arise if there is a reduced level of support from the parent company, which may have a negative impact on TMNewa’s ratings. Although it is unlikely in the near term, positive rating actions could occur if TMNewa is able to achieve sustained improvement in its operating performance, while its balance sheet strength fundamentals remain robust.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2026 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260508631820/en/
Contact
Stephanie Mi
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3402
stephanie.mi@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
Sunday, 10 May 2026
VCI Global Enters Binding Term Sheet for Strategic Investment in Brazil Gold Asset, Advancing Integration of Physical Gold into RWA and Digital Asset Treasury Strategy
Structured Entry with Operational Role and Potential Majority Ownership, within A Sector Defined by Institutional Scale Gold M&A Activity
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 8 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ: VCIG) (“VCI Global” or the “Company”), today announced that it has entered a binding term sheet in relation to a proposed strategic investment in a gold mining asset located within an established gold-producing region in Brazil.
Based on preliminary technical information provided to the Company, the asset is estimated to contain approximately 59.9 tonnes of gold resources (equivalent to approximately 1.9 million ounces). This estimate is preliminary in nature and subject to further technical validation, independent verification, and compliance with applicable mineral resource reporting standards.
Under the terms of the binding term sheet, VCI Global intends to make an initial investment in the project and is expected to assume a role as Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) partner, subject to the execution of definitive agreements. The Company will also retain an option to increase its ownership interest to up to 51%, subject to the satisfaction of agreed conditions, milestones, and the execution of definitive agreements.
The project remains at an early development stage. Any progression toward development, construction, or potential future production will be subject to technical assessments, permitting, financing arrangements, and operational execution. There can be no assurance regarding timing, development outcomes, or commercial viability.
This proposed investment is aligned with the Company’s broader capital allocation strategy, including its ongoing evaluation of real-world asset (RWA) initiatives and digital asset infrastructure. The Company continues to assess how physical commodity-linked assets, such as gold, may potentially interface with structured financial frameworks under its RWA-focused initiatives. Any such development remains at an exploratory stage and is subject to regulatory, technical, and commercial considerations.
The transaction is expected to be supported by a phased capital deployment plan, which may include funding for further technical studies and development activities. Any potential fundraising activities will be undertaken in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and prevailing market conditions.
In accordance with the terms of the transaction and for strategic reasons, the identity of the asset and counterparties has not been disclosed at this stage. Further information will be provided as and when appropriate, subject to regulatory and contractual considerations.
“This transaction reflects our disciplined approach to evaluating strategic opportunities within commodity-linked assets. It provides a structured pathway to assess both the technical and operational potential of the project, while remaining subject to due diligence, definitive agreements, and regulatory approvals,” said Dato’ Victor Hoo, Group Executive Chairman and CEO of VCI Global.
About VCI Global Limited
VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ: VCIG) is an AI-native operating platform designed to scale and optimize businesses through centralized intelligence, data, and capital discipline.
The Company operates a platform-based model in which subsidiaries, affiliates, and portfolio companies plug into VCI Global’s centralized AI, data, governance, and capital allocation systems, enabling faster execution, improved capital efficiency, and scalable growth across multiple industries.
VCI Global’s platform centralizes AI-enabled execution, standardized KPI frameworks, financial and governance controls, and strategic capital allocation, while operating businesses focus on revenue generation, customer relationships, and local execution.
The Company maintains exposure across advisory, AI, and digital infrastructure, digital assets, energy, automotive, and consumer sectors, and continuously evaluates opportunities to scale, spin off, divest, or discontinue businesses based on performance, scalability, and return on capital.
VCI Global’s platform-centric approach is designed to enhance productivity, improve IPO readiness, and unlock long-term value through disciplined growth and selective capital deployment.
For more information on the Company, please log on to https://v-capital.co/.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Such statements include statements regarding the Company’s ability to grow its business and other statements that are not historical facts, including statements which may be accompanied by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words. These forward-looking statements are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to certain factors, including without limitation, the Company’s ability to achieve profitable operations, customer acceptance of new products, the effects of the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and future measures taken by authorities in the countries wherein the Company has supply chain partners, the demand for the Company’s products and the Company’s customers’ economic condition, the impact of competitive products and pricing, successfully managing and, general economic conditions and other risk factors detailed in the Company’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this release, except in accordance with applicable law.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For media queries, please contact:
VCI GLOBAL LIMITED
enquiries@v-capital.co
SOURCE: VCI Global Limited
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
Based on preliminary technical information provided to the Company, the asset is estimated to contain approximately 59.9 tonnes of gold resources (equivalent to approximately 1.9 million ounces). This estimate is preliminary in nature and subject to further technical validation, independent verification, and compliance with applicable mineral resource reporting standards.
Under the terms of the binding term sheet, VCI Global intends to make an initial investment in the project and is expected to assume a role as Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) partner, subject to the execution of definitive agreements. The Company will also retain an option to increase its ownership interest to up to 51%, subject to the satisfaction of agreed conditions, milestones, and the execution of definitive agreements.
The project remains at an early development stage. Any progression toward development, construction, or potential future production will be subject to technical assessments, permitting, financing arrangements, and operational execution. There can be no assurance regarding timing, development outcomes, or commercial viability.
This proposed investment is aligned with the Company’s broader capital allocation strategy, including its ongoing evaluation of real-world asset (RWA) initiatives and digital asset infrastructure. The Company continues to assess how physical commodity-linked assets, such as gold, may potentially interface with structured financial frameworks under its RWA-focused initiatives. Any such development remains at an exploratory stage and is subject to regulatory, technical, and commercial considerations.
The transaction is expected to be supported by a phased capital deployment plan, which may include funding for further technical studies and development activities. Any potential fundraising activities will be undertaken in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and prevailing market conditions.
In accordance with the terms of the transaction and for strategic reasons, the identity of the asset and counterparties has not been disclosed at this stage. Further information will be provided as and when appropriate, subject to regulatory and contractual considerations.
“This transaction reflects our disciplined approach to evaluating strategic opportunities within commodity-linked assets. It provides a structured pathway to assess both the technical and operational potential of the project, while remaining subject to due diligence, definitive agreements, and regulatory approvals,” said Dato’ Victor Hoo, Group Executive Chairman and CEO of VCI Global.
About VCI Global Limited
VCI Global Limited (NASDAQ: VCIG) is an AI-native operating platform designed to scale and optimize businesses through centralized intelligence, data, and capital discipline.
The Company operates a platform-based model in which subsidiaries, affiliates, and portfolio companies plug into VCI Global’s centralized AI, data, governance, and capital allocation systems, enabling faster execution, improved capital efficiency, and scalable growth across multiple industries.
VCI Global’s platform centralizes AI-enabled execution, standardized KPI frameworks, financial and governance controls, and strategic capital allocation, while operating businesses focus on revenue generation, customer relationships, and local execution.
The Company maintains exposure across advisory, AI, and digital infrastructure, digital assets, energy, automotive, and consumer sectors, and continuously evaluates opportunities to scale, spin off, divest, or discontinue businesses based on performance, scalability, and return on capital.
VCI Global’s platform-centric approach is designed to enhance productivity, improve IPO readiness, and unlock long-term value through disciplined growth and selective capital deployment.
For more information on the Company, please log on to https://v-capital.co/.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Such statements include statements regarding the Company’s ability to grow its business and other statements that are not historical facts, including statements which may be accompanied by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words. These forward-looking statements are based only on our current beliefs, expectations, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to certain factors, including without limitation, the Company’s ability to achieve profitable operations, customer acceptance of new products, the effects of the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and future measures taken by authorities in the countries wherein the Company has supply chain partners, the demand for the Company’s products and the Company’s customers’ economic condition, the impact of competitive products and pricing, successfully managing and, general economic conditions and other risk factors detailed in the Company’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this release, except in accordance with applicable law.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For media queries, please contact:
VCI GLOBAL LIMITED
enquiries@v-capital.co
SOURCE: VCI Global Limited
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
Monday, 4 May 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS VIETNAM NATIONAL REINSURANCE CREDIT RATINGS
KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 (Bernama) -- AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of B++ (Good), the long-term issuer credit rating of “bbb+” (Good), and the Vietnam National Scale Rating of aaa.VN (Exceptional) of Vietnam National Reinsurance Corporation (VINARE).
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting VINARE’s very strong balance sheet strength, strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).
VINARE’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which was at the strongest level at year-end 2025 and is expected to remain at this level over the medium term.
Offsetting factors include moderate investment risk driven by equity holdings, as well as reliance on retrocession for large commercial risks, although associated credit risks are partly mitigated by the sound quality of counterparties, according to AM Best in a statement.
The global credit rating agency assesses VINARE’s operating performance as strong, supported by its five-year average return-on-equity ratio of 10.8 per cent (fiscal years 2021 to 2025).
The company has generated robust underwriting profits, supported by favourable underwriting performance of its commercial businesses, although partially offset by a higher expense ratio. Investment income remains the key contributor to its overall earnings, with a net investment income ratio of 22.6 per cent in fiscal year 2025.
Prospectively, AM Best expects VINARE to maintain strong operating performance, supported by its core commercial business and stable investment income.
As Vietnam’s national reinsurer, VINARE benefits from long-standing relationships with local cedants and derives the majority of its premium from the domestic market. The company maintains a well-diversified underwriting portfolio across business lines, although it remains exposed to elevated product risk due to its sizable commercial and industrial risk exposure.
VINARE’s ERM is assessed as appropriate, supported by its risk management framework and technical expertise, including support from its second-largest shareholder, Swiss Reinsurance Company Ltd.
-- BERNAMA
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting VINARE’s very strong balance sheet strength, strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).
VINARE’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which was at the strongest level at year-end 2025 and is expected to remain at this level over the medium term.
Offsetting factors include moderate investment risk driven by equity holdings, as well as reliance on retrocession for large commercial risks, although associated credit risks are partly mitigated by the sound quality of counterparties, according to AM Best in a statement.
The global credit rating agency assesses VINARE’s operating performance as strong, supported by its five-year average return-on-equity ratio of 10.8 per cent (fiscal years 2021 to 2025).
The company has generated robust underwriting profits, supported by favourable underwriting performance of its commercial businesses, although partially offset by a higher expense ratio. Investment income remains the key contributor to its overall earnings, with a net investment income ratio of 22.6 per cent in fiscal year 2025.
Prospectively, AM Best expects VINARE to maintain strong operating performance, supported by its core commercial business and stable investment income.
As Vietnam’s national reinsurer, VINARE benefits from long-standing relationships with local cedants and derives the majority of its premium from the domestic market. The company maintains a well-diversified underwriting portfolio across business lines, although it remains exposed to elevated product risk due to its sizable commercial and industrial risk exposure.
VINARE’s ERM is assessed as appropriate, supported by its risk management framework and technical expertise, including support from its second-largest shareholder, Swiss Reinsurance Company Ltd.
-- BERNAMA
ION EXCHANGE, MANN+HUMMEL PARTNER ON ADVANCED MEMBRANE SOLUTIONS
KUALA LUMPUR, May 4 (Bernama) -- Ion Exchange (India) Ltd, a global total water and environment management solutions provider, has entered into a strategic collaboration with MANN+HUMMEL to manufacture advanced membrane solutions and expand technology capabilities in India.
The companies will work together to produce advanced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with integrated UltraSKID systems and will also bring Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology to India.
The partnership combines MANN+HUMMEL Water & Membrane Solutions’ global expertise in membrane technology with Ion Exchange’s manufacturing capabilities, engineering strength and established global presence in water and wastewater treatment.
Ion Exchange Senior Vice President (SVP), Sridhar Padmanaban said the collaboration marked a significant milestone in advancing the company’s HYDRAMEM membrane solutions.
“It is an important step in our journey to deliver differentiated, high-performance and sustainable solutions to customers across global markets,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, MANN+HUMMEL Water & Membrane Solutions SVP and General Manager, Rohit Sathe said the partnership brings together complementary strengths to enhance the availability of high-performance filtration solutions, supporting evolving customer needs across markets.
Under the agreement, Ion Exchange will manufacture, integrate systems and commercialise PVDF hollow fibre ultrafiltration membranes with UltraSKID systems based on MANN+HUMMEL’s advanced technology.
Production will take place at Ion Exchange’s expanded state-of-the-art HYDRAMEM membrane manufacturing facility in Goa, India, supporting both domestic and international demand.
The collaboration is expected to improve supply resilience, reduce lead times and deliver advanced membrane solutions more efficiently through localised manufacturing.
-- BERNAMA
The companies will work together to produce advanced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with integrated UltraSKID systems and will also bring Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology to India.
The partnership combines MANN+HUMMEL Water & Membrane Solutions’ global expertise in membrane technology with Ion Exchange’s manufacturing capabilities, engineering strength and established global presence in water and wastewater treatment.
Ion Exchange Senior Vice President (SVP), Sridhar Padmanaban said the collaboration marked a significant milestone in advancing the company’s HYDRAMEM membrane solutions.
“It is an important step in our journey to deliver differentiated, high-performance and sustainable solutions to customers across global markets,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, MANN+HUMMEL Water & Membrane Solutions SVP and General Manager, Rohit Sathe said the partnership brings together complementary strengths to enhance the availability of high-performance filtration solutions, supporting evolving customer needs across markets.
Under the agreement, Ion Exchange will manufacture, integrate systems and commercialise PVDF hollow fibre ultrafiltration membranes with UltraSKID systems based on MANN+HUMMEL’s advanced technology.
Production will take place at Ion Exchange’s expanded state-of-the-art HYDRAMEM membrane manufacturing facility in Goa, India, supporting both domestic and international demand.
The collaboration is expected to improve supply resilience, reduce lead times and deliver advanced membrane solutions more efficiently through localised manufacturing.
-- BERNAMA
LyondellBasell completes sale of select European strategic assessment assets
Transaction with AEQUITA advances company’s portfolio realignment
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, May 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) today announced that it has successfully completed the sale of select European olefins and polyolefins assets, and the associated business and corporate functions, to AEQUITA as a key milestone in the company’s European strategic assessment. The transaction follows completion of required employee information and consultation processes and satisfaction of customary regulatory and closing conditions.
The divestiture supports the company’s strategy to grow and upgrade the core by further concentrating on assets and businesses with durable competitive advantages and stronger long-term returns, while enhancing financial flexibility and supporting disciplined capital allocation.
The assets sold in the transaction are located in Berre (France), Münchsmünster (Germany), Carrington (UK), and Tarragona (Spain). LYB will continue to operate its Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) business in Tarragona.
“This transaction represents a pivotal achievement in our transformation,” said Peter Vanacker, chief executive officer of LyondellBasell. “By finalizing this sale, we have refined our portfolio and enhanced our capacity to allocate capital toward high-return opportunities that contribute to long-term value creation.”
Vanacker added, “Europe remains an integral market for LYB; we will continue to invest where value creation is strong, reinforcing our leadership in specialty polymers, building a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business, and advancing our leadership in technology and innovation. We extend our gratitude to our colleagues transferring as part of this transaction for their contributions, professionalism, and resilience throughout the process. As they transition to a standalone business under AEQUITA ownership, we wish them and the new company success in the next chapter ahead.”
Following today’s closing, the divested business will be named and operated as Velogy.
“This closing marks an important step in building a scaled and competitive European polymers platform, a sector where we see strong fundamentals and attractive long-term value creation potential,” said Dr.-Ing. Axel Geuer, AEQUITA-Founder and Chairman. “We thank LyondellBasell for the constructive collaboration throughout the process and are excited to begin the next step of partnering with Velogy’s employees to reinforce and further enhance the Company’s leading services to customers and suppliers.”
LYB remains committed to operating its remaining assets safely and reliably and to continuing to serve customers and partners with the same high standards.
Advisors
Citi and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors, and Linklaters LLP acted as legal counsel to LyondellBasell.
About LyondellBasell
We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) ― a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors, and society. As one of the world's largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.
About AEQUITA
AEQUITA is a Munich-based industrial group investing in corporate carve-outs, succession situations, and transformational opportunities across Europe, North America, and Asia. Its portfolio companies generate more than EUR 10 billion in revenues across three segments — automotive, chemicals, and industrials — and employ over 19,000 people worldwide. Backed by a strong capital base and deep operational expertise, AEQUITA acquires and sustainably develops companies with long-term value creation potential. For more information, visit www.aequita.com.
Media Inquiries LYB Global
LyondellBasell Media Relations
Phone: +1-713-309-7575
Email: mediarelations@lyondellbasell.com
Or:
Media Inquiries LYB Europe
Esther Clason, Communications EMEAI
Phone: +31 6 388 269 30
Email: Esther.Clason@lyondellbasell.com
Media Inquiries AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA
Kolja Hübner, Partner
Gabrielenstr. 9, 80636 Munich
Phone: +49 89 2620 4840-0
Email: contact@aequita.com
Forward-Looking Statements LYB
The statements in this release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially based on factors including, but not limited to, our ability to align our asset base with our strategic goals; our ability to create long-term value for our stakeholders; and our ability to build a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the "Risk Factors" section of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which can be found at www.LyondellBasell.com on the Investors page and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. There is no assurance that any of the actions, events or results of the forward-looking statements will occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on our results of operations or financial condition. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and are based on the estimates and opinions of management of LyondellBasell at the time the statements are made. LyondellBasell does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change, except as required by law.
SOURCE: LyondellBasell
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, May 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) today announced that it has successfully completed the sale of select European olefins and polyolefins assets, and the associated business and corporate functions, to AEQUITA as a key milestone in the company’s European strategic assessment. The transaction follows completion of required employee information and consultation processes and satisfaction of customary regulatory and closing conditions.
The divestiture supports the company’s strategy to grow and upgrade the core by further concentrating on assets and businesses with durable competitive advantages and stronger long-term returns, while enhancing financial flexibility and supporting disciplined capital allocation.
The assets sold in the transaction are located in Berre (France), Münchsmünster (Germany), Carrington (UK), and Tarragona (Spain). LYB will continue to operate its Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) business in Tarragona.
“This transaction represents a pivotal achievement in our transformation,” said Peter Vanacker, chief executive officer of LyondellBasell. “By finalizing this sale, we have refined our portfolio and enhanced our capacity to allocate capital toward high-return opportunities that contribute to long-term value creation.”
Vanacker added, “Europe remains an integral market for LYB; we will continue to invest where value creation is strong, reinforcing our leadership in specialty polymers, building a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business, and advancing our leadership in technology and innovation. We extend our gratitude to our colleagues transferring as part of this transaction for their contributions, professionalism, and resilience throughout the process. As they transition to a standalone business under AEQUITA ownership, we wish them and the new company success in the next chapter ahead.”
Following today’s closing, the divested business will be named and operated as Velogy.
“This closing marks an important step in building a scaled and competitive European polymers platform, a sector where we see strong fundamentals and attractive long-term value creation potential,” said Dr.-Ing. Axel Geuer, AEQUITA-Founder and Chairman. “We thank LyondellBasell for the constructive collaboration throughout the process and are excited to begin the next step of partnering with Velogy’s employees to reinforce and further enhance the Company’s leading services to customers and suppliers.”
LYB remains committed to operating its remaining assets safely and reliably and to continuing to serve customers and partners with the same high standards.
Advisors
Citi and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors, and Linklaters LLP acted as legal counsel to LyondellBasell.
About LyondellBasell
We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) ― a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors, and society. As one of the world's largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.
About AEQUITA
AEQUITA is a Munich-based industrial group investing in corporate carve-outs, succession situations, and transformational opportunities across Europe, North America, and Asia. Its portfolio companies generate more than EUR 10 billion in revenues across three segments — automotive, chemicals, and industrials — and employ over 19,000 people worldwide. Backed by a strong capital base and deep operational expertise, AEQUITA acquires and sustainably develops companies with long-term value creation potential. For more information, visit www.aequita.com.
Media Inquiries LYB Global
LyondellBasell Media Relations
Phone: +1-713-309-7575
Email: mediarelations@lyondellbasell.com
Or:
Media Inquiries LYB Europe
Esther Clason, Communications EMEAI
Phone: +31 6 388 269 30
Email: Esther.Clason@lyondellbasell.com
Media Inquiries AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA
Kolja Hübner, Partner
Gabrielenstr. 9, 80636 Munich
Phone: +49 89 2620 4840-0
Email: contact@aequita.com
Forward-Looking Statements LYB
The statements in this release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially based on factors including, but not limited to, our ability to align our asset base with our strategic goals; our ability to create long-term value for our stakeholders; and our ability to build a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the "Risk Factors" section of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which can be found at www.LyondellBasell.com on the Investors page and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. There is no assurance that any of the actions, events or results of the forward-looking statements will occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on our results of operations or financial condition. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and are based on the estimates and opinions of management of LyondellBasell at the time the statements are made. LyondellBasell does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change, except as required by law.
SOURCE: LyondellBasell
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