MEXC users across 170+ countries can now stake TAO through validator infrastructure run by Yuma
STAMFORD, Conn., July 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MEXC launched TAO staking today, running on Yuma’s validator infrastructure. The launch expands TAO staking access to MEXC’s 40M+ users.
MEXC integrated infrastructure from Yuma, an operator focused exclusively on Bittensor. Because Yuma evaluates network performance firsthand and submits its own weights—a form of performance grading to achieve network consensus—TAO staked via MEXC earns rewards by supporting the strongest Bittensor contributors and enhancing the network’s overall health.
Bittensor is a decentralized AI protocol coordinating open-source AI development. Companies are building and deploying services built on Bittensor across many disciplines, including cybersecurity, financial intelligence, and AI model training. The protocol has emerged as a leading open-source ecosystem where builders and operators collaborate to develop and monetize AI capabilities at scale.
“Introducing millions of users to Bittensor takes broad distribution and high-quality infrastructure,” said Evan Malanga, Chief Revenue Officer at Yuma. “Our proprietary research enables Yuma to commit stake to rewarding the most productive and valuable subnets, enhancing the health of the Bittensor ecosystem. Our infrastructure now backs every MEXC user’s staked TAO, expanding access to the Bittensor network and supporting the open-source production of artificial intelligence.”
MEXC will support the launch with limited-time promotions to encourage network participation.
Learn more about Yuma Staking at https://www.yumaai.com/staking and stake on MEXC at https://mexc.com/earn.
About Yuma
Yuma is a Bittensor-focused infrastructure and investment firm operating within the open-source artificial intelligence industry. The firm invests, validates, mines, researches, and builds across the Bittensor AI network through staking infrastructure, subnet acceleration, and institutional asset management. Combining deep financial and technical expertise, Yuma applies institutional discipline while engaging directly with the Bittensor protocol. Yuma is a subsidiary of Digital Currency Group (DCG). Learn more at yumaai.com.
About MEXC
MEXC is the world’s fastest-growing cryptocurrency exchange, trusted by more than 40 million users across 170+ markets. Built on a user-first philosophy, MEXC offers industry-leading 0-fee trading and access to over 3,000 digital assets. As the Gateway to Infinite Opportunities, MEXC provides a single platform where users can easily trade cryptocurrencies alongside tokenized assets, including stocks, ETFs, commodities, and precious metals.
Media Contacts
media@yumaai.com
media@mexc.com
SOURCE: Yuma
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, 22 July 2026
AM BEST ASSIGNS STABLE OUTLOOK TO PHILIPPINES' MAAGAP
KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has assigned a financial strength rating of B+ (Good), a long-term issuer credit rating of “bbb-” (Good) and a Philippines National Scale Rating of aa.PH (Superior) to MAAGAP Insurance Inc (MAAGAP).
AM Best in a statement said the outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) carries a stable outlook, reflecting MAAGAP's strong balance sheet strength assessment, adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
MAAGAP’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term.
The company's robust capital adequacy benefits in part from healthy earnings retention over recent years. In addition, it has a low-to-moderate risk investment portfolio, with the majority of investments allocated to Philippine government bonds and well-rated domestic corporate bonds.
A partially offsetting factor is MAAGAP's elevated reliance on reinsurance to support the underwriting of catastrophe-exposed business. However, this risk is partially mitigated because the majority of its reinsurance recoverables are from counterparties with sound credit quality.
AM Best assesses MAAGAP's operating performance as adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 8.8 per cent for fiscal years 2021 to 2025. Its underwriting performance showed some volatility over the period, partly due to losses arising from natural catastrophes and large loss events.
However, ongoing remedial measures supported an improvement in underwriting results in fiscal year 2025, although the elevated expense ratio recorded in recent periods remains an offsetting factor.
Prospectively, this is expected to improve as the company grows its book of business and benefits from greater economies of scale. Additionally, investment returns, derived mainly from interest income, are viewed to be stable and supportive of overall earnings.
-- BERNAMA
AM Best in a statement said the outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) carries a stable outlook, reflecting MAAGAP's strong balance sheet strength assessment, adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
MAAGAP’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term.
The company's robust capital adequacy benefits in part from healthy earnings retention over recent years. In addition, it has a low-to-moderate risk investment portfolio, with the majority of investments allocated to Philippine government bonds and well-rated domestic corporate bonds.
A partially offsetting factor is MAAGAP's elevated reliance on reinsurance to support the underwriting of catastrophe-exposed business. However, this risk is partially mitigated because the majority of its reinsurance recoverables are from counterparties with sound credit quality.
AM Best assesses MAAGAP's operating performance as adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 8.8 per cent for fiscal years 2021 to 2025. Its underwriting performance showed some volatility over the period, partly due to losses arising from natural catastrophes and large loss events.
However, ongoing remedial measures supported an improvement in underwriting results in fiscal year 2025, although the elevated expense ratio recorded in recent periods remains an offsetting factor.
Prospectively, this is expected to improve as the company grows its book of business and benefits from greater economies of scale. Additionally, investment returns, derived mainly from interest income, are viewed to be stable and supportive of overall earnings.
-- BERNAMA
Saturday, 18 July 2026
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of DB Insurance Co., Ltd.
HONG KONG, July 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” (Superior) of DB Insurance Co., Ltd. (DBI) (South Korea). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings reflect DBI’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, favourable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
DBI’s risk-adjusted capitalisation is assessed at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), including credit for hybrid securities. DBI’s strong capability of internal capital generation, financial flexibility and tight asset-liability management allows the company’s capital to stay resilient amid an unfavourable business environment, such as volatile interest rate movements. In AM Best’s view, the company had a positive adjusted financial leverage ratio of 11.9% at year-end 2025, which includes equity credit for hybrid securities, and strong interest coverage for 2025. While the acquisition of The Fortegra Group, Inc. (Fortegra), completed in May 2026, could potentially weigh on risk-adjusted capitalisation, AM Best views DBI as having a sufficient capital buffer to absorb the impact, and expects the company to recover through strong earnings generation.
AM Best assesses DBI’s operating performance as strong, underpinned by continued double-digit return-on-equity, supported by a combined ratio that generally outperforms its domestic peers and robust investment profits. AM Best expects the recent decrease in overall underwriting profitability to be manageable, following various mitigative measures in each business line including active rate adjustments and tightened underwriting discipline. In particular, the company’s large contractual service margin will continue to provide a stable source of underwriting income in the long-term insurance line. Prospectively, the acquisition of Fortegra is expected to provide a moderate uplift to DBI’s overall earnings.
DBI remains one of the leading non-life insurers in South Korea, with a market share of about 19% in terms of insurance service revenue in 2025. The company benefits from a strong brand in its domestic market and its diversified product offerings, including long-term, auto and general insurances. Its profile is strengthened further by the life insurance business through its subsidiary, DB Life Insurance Co., Ltd. In addition, the acquisition of Fortegra is expected to bring geographic and product diversification to DBI, bolstering its international growth strategy and supporting its long-term positioning in the U.S. market.
Negative rating actions could occur if DBI shows a sustained deterioration in its operating performance to a level that no longer supports the current strong assessment. Negative rating actions also could occur if there is a significant deterioration in the company’s balance sheet strength fundamentals. Although unlikely in the medium term, positive rating actions could occur if DBI demonstrates an unquestionable market leadership position with high brand recognition in both domestic and overseas markets, while maintaining strong profitability.
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/20260715299974/en/
Contact
Seokjae Lee
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3407
seokjae.lee@ambest.com
Chanyoung Lee
Director, Analytics
+852 2857 3404
chanyoung.lee@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
--BERNAMA
DBI’s risk-adjusted capitalisation is assessed at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), including credit for hybrid securities. DBI’s strong capability of internal capital generation, financial flexibility and tight asset-liability management allows the company’s capital to stay resilient amid an unfavourable business environment, such as volatile interest rate movements. In AM Best’s view, the company had a positive adjusted financial leverage ratio of 11.9% at year-end 2025, which includes equity credit for hybrid securities, and strong interest coverage for 2025. While the acquisition of The Fortegra Group, Inc. (Fortegra), completed in May 2026, could potentially weigh on risk-adjusted capitalisation, AM Best views DBI as having a sufficient capital buffer to absorb the impact, and expects the company to recover through strong earnings generation.
AM Best assesses DBI’s operating performance as strong, underpinned by continued double-digit return-on-equity, supported by a combined ratio that generally outperforms its domestic peers and robust investment profits. AM Best expects the recent decrease in overall underwriting profitability to be manageable, following various mitigative measures in each business line including active rate adjustments and tightened underwriting discipline. In particular, the company’s large contractual service margin will continue to provide a stable source of underwriting income in the long-term insurance line. Prospectively, the acquisition of Fortegra is expected to provide a moderate uplift to DBI’s overall earnings.
DBI remains one of the leading non-life insurers in South Korea, with a market share of about 19% in terms of insurance service revenue in 2025. The company benefits from a strong brand in its domestic market and its diversified product offerings, including long-term, auto and general insurances. Its profile is strengthened further by the life insurance business through its subsidiary, DB Life Insurance Co., Ltd. In addition, the acquisition of Fortegra is expected to bring geographic and product diversification to DBI, bolstering its international growth strategy and supporting its long-term positioning in the U.S. market.
Negative rating actions could occur if DBI shows a sustained deterioration in its operating performance to a level that no longer supports the current strong assessment. Negative rating actions also could occur if there is a significant deterioration in the company’s balance sheet strength fundamentals. Although unlikely in the medium term, positive rating actions could occur if DBI demonstrates an unquestionable market leadership position with high brand recognition in both domestic and overseas markets, while maintaining strong profitability.
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/20260715299974/en/
Contact
Seokjae Lee
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3407
seokjae.lee@ambest.com
Chanyoung Lee
Director, Analytics
+852 2857 3404
chanyoung.lee@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
--BERNAMA
Friday, 17 July 2026
IFAST GLOBAL BANK ADDS CHINA QR PAYMENT SUPPORT
KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- iFAST Global Bank has expanded its Worldwide Scan & Pay service to support QR code payments in China, allowing customers to make cross-border transactions through Alipay+, the unified wallet gateway of Ant International.
In a statement, the bank said customers can make payments at Alipay+ compatible merchants and supported national QR payment networks in China by scanning QR codes using the iFAST Global Bank mobile application, eliminating the need for a physical payment card.
iFAST Global Bank General Manager of Digital Personal Banking, Simon Lee said China is one of the world's largest QR payment markets, with QR code payments deeply integrated into everyday life, and the expansion enables customers to enjoy the same convenience while travelling or managing an internationally connected lifestyle.
The bank said the move comes as international travel to China for business, education and tourism continues to increase, driving demand for familiar and convenient cross-border payment solutions through a single global banking account.
To mark the launch, iFAST Global Bank is offering one per cent cashback on eligible QR code payments made via Worldwide Scan & Pay from June 16 to Aug 16.
The cashback is capped at GBP10 per customer, based on qualifying spending of up to GBP1,000 during the promotional period, and will be credited automatically to eligible customers' accounts. (GBP1 = RM5.48)
The promotion is available to Digital Personal Banking customers with an active iFAST Global Bank account and access to the Worldwide Scan & Pay service, subject to the programme's terms and conditions.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 15 July 2026
PRAYTELL EXPANDS INTO ASIA WITH SINGAPORE OFFICE
KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- Praytell has expanded into Asia with the opening of a Singapore office, marking the creative communications agency's latest step in its global growth strategy and strengthening its presence across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.
According to the company in a statement, the new office will be led by industry veteran Debbie Chin, who joins Praytell as Executive Vice President, Asia. Based in Singapore, the regional hub will support global brands operating across Asian markets while helping Asian companies expand into the United States and other international markets.
Praytell Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Beth Cleveland said the expansion reflects Praytell's continued investment in growth, with the Singapore office combining the agency's global capabilities with regional expertise to deliver localised communications and storytelling for clients.
Chin brings more than 25 years of communications experience across London, Shanghai and Singapore, having worked with multinational brands including Unilever and Procter & Gamble. She joins from Weber Shandwick, where she led global communications for major consumer portfolios.
Praytell said its Singapore office will also strengthen collaboration within the Project Worldwide alliance by working alongside sister agencies George P. Johnson and DARKHORSE to provide integrated marketing, communications and brand experience services across the region.
Project Worldwide APAC CEO, Ben Taylor said adding Praytell's creative communications capabilities strengthens the alliance's regional offering and supports its strategy of delivering integrated marketing solutions for global brands.
Founded in 2010, Project Worldwide comprises 13 agencies, 45 offices and 2,300 employees globally. Praytell first entered the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region in 2021 with the launch of its Melbourne office and has since expanded into Sydney.
-- BERNAMA
According to the company in a statement, the new office will be led by industry veteran Debbie Chin, who joins Praytell as Executive Vice President, Asia. Based in Singapore, the regional hub will support global brands operating across Asian markets while helping Asian companies expand into the United States and other international markets.
Praytell Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Beth Cleveland said the expansion reflects Praytell's continued investment in growth, with the Singapore office combining the agency's global capabilities with regional expertise to deliver localised communications and storytelling for clients.
Chin brings more than 25 years of communications experience across London, Shanghai and Singapore, having worked with multinational brands including Unilever and Procter & Gamble. She joins from Weber Shandwick, where she led global communications for major consumer portfolios.
Praytell said its Singapore office will also strengthen collaboration within the Project Worldwide alliance by working alongside sister agencies George P. Johnson and DARKHORSE to provide integrated marketing, communications and brand experience services across the region.
Project Worldwide APAC CEO, Ben Taylor said adding Praytell's creative communications capabilities strengthens the alliance's regional offering and supports its strategy of delivering integrated marketing solutions for global brands.
Founded in 2010, Project Worldwide comprises 13 agencies, 45 offices and 2,300 employees globally. Praytell first entered the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region in 2021 with the launch of its Melbourne office and has since expanded into Sydney.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 10 July 2026
DEWA LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL ARM TO EXPAND GLOBAL ENERGY AND WATER PROJECTS
 |
| DEWA International launched as a wholly owned independent subsidiary of DEWA to develop global energy and water projects (Photo: AETOSWire) |
KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Bernama) -- Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has announced the establishment of DEWA International, its wholly owned independent subsidiary, to develop conventional and clean energy projects worldwide and export Dubai’s successful energy and water infrastructure model to global markets.
Dubai Supreme Council of Energy Chairman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said Dubai has firmly established itself as a leading international benchmark through world-class infrastructure, particularly in the energy and water sectors.
In a statement, Sheikh Ahmed said the launch of DEWA International marks a strategic step towards extending this successful model to global markets and strengthening Dubai’s position as a source of knowledge and expertise in energy, water, sustainability and digital transformation.
Meanwhile, DEWA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer said DEWA has powered Dubai’s growth for decades through high performance and efficiency.
“Now, we rank first globally in 13 key utility performance indicators and two regional benchmarks across generation, transmission, distribution and customer service. Our financial strength provides real strategic freedom through sustained revenue growth, strong margins and significant investing capacity,” said Saeed Mohammed.
He added that DEWA International will develop power and water projects using advanced technologies in partnership with leading organisations worldwide, with work already underway to identify opportunities, build a project pipeline and establish strategic partnerships.
-- BERNAMA
Abaxx Approves CIX As Custodian For Carbon Futures Contract
KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 (Bernama) -- Abaxx Technologies Inc announced that Climate Impact X (CIX), a global environmental markets exchange, has been approved as an eligible custodian for Abaxx Exchange’s carbon futures contracts.
Participants taking delivery under these contracts can now hold their credits with CIX, giving them an additional route to manage post-trade activity.
Abaxx Exchange Chief Commercial Officer, Joe Raia said market participants need clearer ways to price carbon exposure before they trade and more efficient ways to manage credits after they do.
“Abaxx carbon futures are designed to provide a transparent, exchange-traded price signal, and CIX’s approval as an eligible custodian expands the post-trade choices available to participants taking delivery under those contracts,” added Raia in a statement.
Environmental markets remain fragmented, with carbon credits held across multiple registries, creating operational complexity and added cost for companies moving assets between markets.
With CIX as an approved custodian, clients can use its omnibus custodial service and multi-registry connectivity to hold, transfer and retire credits delivered under Abaxx carbon futures alongside credits from their own spot market activities. The arrangement provides greater flexibility, enhances trading efficiency and reduces the need to maintain multiple service provider accounts or relationships.
The arrangement was first utilised on July 1 to facilitate the transfer and delivery of 120 lots under Abaxx’s CORSIA Phase One futures contract, with each lot representing 100 CORSIA Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs).
The arrangement covers Abaxx's Jurisdictional REDD+ and CORSIA Phase One futures contracts and forms part of CIX's ongoing efforts to build the market infrastructure needed to scale participation. CIX is currently connected to 12 registries, with plans to expand further.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 8 July 2026
AscentHR Strengthens Regional Payroll Leadership with Strategic Acquisition of OS HRS
Acquisition expands regional payroll capabilities across countries, enhancing support for multinational enterprises across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East
SINGAPORE, July 6 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AscentHR, a leading provider of HR technology, payroll, compliance, and workforce solutions, today announced the acquisition of OS HRS, a trusted APAC-focused payroll outsourcing provider with over two decades of experience in delivering multi-country payroll services.
The acquisition was completed through a single-stage transaction under which AscentHR acquired 100% of the equity share capital of OS HRS Malaysia, OS HRS Japan, and OS HRS India from BREXA Inc. (formerly Outsourcing Inc.), Tokyo, Japan. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The acquisition significantly strengthens AscentHR's regional presence, strengthening its payroll delivery capabilities, compliance expertise, and in-country operations across key markets including India, Japan, China, Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, and several other countries across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
With OS HRS joining the AscentHR family, the combined organisation will support payroll operations across the APAC region, offering multinational enterprises a stronger platform for managing payroll, compliance, and workforce administration through deep local expertise and a unified regional delivery model.
Commenting on the acquisition, Subramanyam S., Founder & CEO, AscentHR, said:
"This marks an important milestone in AscentHR's vision of building a leading regional payroll and workforce solutions platform. OS HRS brings deep regional expertise, strong customer relationships, and an outstanding reputation for payroll excellence. Together, we are creating a stronger organisation with expanded capabilities, enhanced regional reach, and the ability to deliver greater value to customers across Asia-Pacific."
The integration combines AscentHR's HR technology, managed services, and compliance capabilities with OS HRS' established payroll operations and regional delivery expertise. The combined organisation will provide:
The acquisition was completed through a single-stage transaction under which AscentHR acquired 100% of the equity share capital of OS HRS Malaysia, OS HRS Japan, and OS HRS India from BREXA Inc. (formerly Outsourcing Inc.), Tokyo, Japan. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The acquisition significantly strengthens AscentHR's regional presence, strengthening its payroll delivery capabilities, compliance expertise, and in-country operations across key markets including India, Japan, China, Malaysia, Korea, Singapore, and several other countries across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
With OS HRS joining the AscentHR family, the combined organisation will support payroll operations across the APAC region, offering multinational enterprises a stronger platform for managing payroll, compliance, and workforce administration through deep local expertise and a unified regional delivery model.
Commenting on the acquisition, Subramanyam S., Founder & CEO, AscentHR, said:
"This marks an important milestone in AscentHR's vision of building a leading regional payroll and workforce solutions platform. OS HRS brings deep regional expertise, strong customer relationships, and an outstanding reputation for payroll excellence. Together, we are creating a stronger organisation with expanded capabilities, enhanced regional reach, and the ability to deliver greater value to customers across Asia-Pacific."
The integration combines AscentHR's HR technology, managed services, and compliance capabilities with OS HRS' established payroll operations and regional delivery expertise. The combined organisation will provide:
- Deep local compliance expertise backed by in-country specialists
- HR technology and enterprise platform integration
- Faster regional payroll implementations
- Native-language support and responsive customer service
Integration will be carried out in a phased manner to ensure seamless continuity for customers, employees, and partners while creating new opportunities for innovation and regional growth.
About AscentHR: AscentHR is a leading provider of Human Capital Management, Payroll, Compliance, and Workforce Solutions, helping organisations simplify workforce management through technology-enabled products and managed services.
About OS HRS: OS HRS is an APAC-focused payroll outsourcing provider delivering end-to-end managed payroll services across multiple countries through its regional delivery hubs in Malaysia, Japan, and India.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260704448469/en/
Contact
Media Relation Contact
Shashank Sethi - +91-9958196997, shashank.sethi@ihorizoncommunications.com
Source : AscentHR
--BERNAMA
About AscentHR: AscentHR is a leading provider of Human Capital Management, Payroll, Compliance, and Workforce Solutions, helping organisations simplify workforce management through technology-enabled products and managed services.
About OS HRS: OS HRS is an APAC-focused payroll outsourcing provider delivering end-to-end managed payroll services across multiple countries through its regional delivery hubs in Malaysia, Japan, and India.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260704448469/en/
Contact
Media Relation Contact
Shashank Sethi - +91-9958196997, shashank.sethi@ihorizoncommunications.com
Source : AscentHR
--BERNAMA
EIG'S MIDOCEAN SECURES US$1.13 BLN INVESTMENT FROM PRIVATE DEPARTMENT
 |
| Private Department of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Invests in MidOcean Energy and Forms Strategic Partnership with EIG |
KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- EIG, an institutional investor in the global energy and infrastructure sectors, announced that its liquefied natural gas (LNG) company, MidOcean Energy (MidOcean), has secured a US$1.13 billion investment from the Private Department of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan (Private Department). (US$1=RM4.07)
The Private Department also established a strategic partnership with EIG, focusing on capital aggregation, investment origination and the development of institutional investment opportunities in the United Arab Emirates and selected regional markets.
EIG in a statement said the investment marks the Private Department's entry into the global LNG sector and the beginning of a broader strategic relationship with the company.
Through the partnership, both parties intend to collaborate on future investment opportunities across the energy and related infrastructure sectors.
“We are pleased to establish a strategic partnership with the Private Department. This relationship combines EIG's global energy investment expertise with the Private Department's regional reach, institutional relationships, and long-term investment perspective.
“We believe this creates a powerful platform for capital formation and investment across the region,” said MidOcean Chairman and EIG Chief Executive Officer, R. Blair Thomas.
The investment further strengthens MidOcean's institutional shareholder base and reflects continued confidence in its strategy to build a diversified, resilient and long-life global LNG platform.
Formed and managed by EIG, MidOcean has assembled a portfolio of LNG interests across key global markets, including Canada, Australia and Latin America, and aims to further expand its global footprint through a disciplined, value-driven investment approach.
-- BERNAMA
LYB, MONDELEZ TURN PLASTIC WASTE INTO CHOCOLATE WRAPPERS
KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- Global chemical company, LyondellBasell (LYB) has introduced an innovative flexible packaging solution for Marabou chocolate bars, developed in collaboration with Mondelez International, Amcor, Taghleef Industries and other industry players.
Using LYB CirculenRevive polymers with 100 per cent attributed recycled content through an ISCC PLUS-certified mass balance approach, Mondelez is now able to offer packaging made from 75 per cent recycled content.
According to LYB in a statement, the solution helps transform hard-to-recycle post-consumer mixed plastic waste into high-quality materials suitable for food packaging.
“Our collaboration with Mondelez illustrates our shared vision for the future and highlights our ability to provide innovative, high-quality circular solutions tailored to demanding specifications.
“We are committed to making circular and low-carbon solutions work for businesses while creating solutions for everyday sustainable living,” said LYB executive vice president, Sustainable Solutions and Technology Business, Yvonne van der Laan.
As part of its circular solutions strategy, LYB plans to supply future polymers for Marabou packaging through MoReTec-1, its first commercial-scale catalytic chemical recycling plant under construction in Wesseling, Germany.
Once operational, the facility will strengthen access to circular feedstock within LYB's integrated ecosystem, connecting advanced sorting and recycling infrastructure with the company's existing crackers and polymerisation assets.
MoReTec-1 is designed to produce 50,000 metric tonnes of feedstock annually for use in LYB's existing production units, enabling the manufacture of recycled polymers.
The collaboration brings together companies across the packaging value chain, with LYB supplying the circular polymers, Taghleef Industries producing the base film, and Amcor converting the material into the final flexible packaging solution for Mondelez.
LYB said the initiative reflects growing demand from brand owners for high-performance circular polymers that support recycled-content targets while meeting the quality requirements for flexible food packaging.
-- BERNAMA
Using LYB CirculenRevive polymers with 100 per cent attributed recycled content through an ISCC PLUS-certified mass balance approach, Mondelez is now able to offer packaging made from 75 per cent recycled content.
According to LYB in a statement, the solution helps transform hard-to-recycle post-consumer mixed plastic waste into high-quality materials suitable for food packaging.
“Our collaboration with Mondelez illustrates our shared vision for the future and highlights our ability to provide innovative, high-quality circular solutions tailored to demanding specifications.
“We are committed to making circular and low-carbon solutions work for businesses while creating solutions for everyday sustainable living,” said LYB executive vice president, Sustainable Solutions and Technology Business, Yvonne van der Laan.
As part of its circular solutions strategy, LYB plans to supply future polymers for Marabou packaging through MoReTec-1, its first commercial-scale catalytic chemical recycling plant under construction in Wesseling, Germany.
Once operational, the facility will strengthen access to circular feedstock within LYB's integrated ecosystem, connecting advanced sorting and recycling infrastructure with the company's existing crackers and polymerisation assets.
MoReTec-1 is designed to produce 50,000 metric tonnes of feedstock annually for use in LYB's existing production units, enabling the manufacture of recycled polymers.
The collaboration brings together companies across the packaging value chain, with LYB supplying the circular polymers, Taghleef Industries producing the base film, and Amcor converting the material into the final flexible packaging solution for Mondelez.
LYB said the initiative reflects growing demand from brand owners for high-performance circular polymers that support recycled-content targets while meeting the quality requirements for flexible food packaging.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 7 July 2026
PROXIMA FUSION SECURES 411 MLN EUROS TO ADVANCE FUSION POWER
KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- Proxima Fusion has raised 411 million euros (US$468 million) in a financing round, valuing the company at 2.4 billion euros (US$2.7 billion) and making it Europe's best-funded fusion energy company. (US$1=RM4.08)
The financing round was led by XTX Ventures and East X Ventures, with German energy company RWE and Google participating as strategic investors.
According to Proxima Fusion, the funding will support the construction of Alpha, its net-energy stellarator demonstrator near Munich, Germany, and accelerate the development of technologies required for commercial fusion power plants.
Proxima Fusion co-founder and chief executive officer, Dr Francesco Sciortino said the investment demonstrates growing confidence in Europe's ability to develop globally competitive fusion technology companies.
“Investors recognise both the urgency and the opportunity of what we are doing and are backing us to develop a generational energy technology company,” he said in a statement.
The company said Alpha is being developed in partnership with the State of Bavaria, the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics and RWE to validate key technologies for future fusion power plants.
Proxima Fusion said the new funding will also support the completion of its Stellarator Model Coil, expansion of high-temperature superconducting cable and magnet production, and recruitment across engineering, manufacturing and operations.
-- BERNAMA
The financing round was led by XTX Ventures and East X Ventures, with German energy company RWE and Google participating as strategic investors.
According to Proxima Fusion, the funding will support the construction of Alpha, its net-energy stellarator demonstrator near Munich, Germany, and accelerate the development of technologies required for commercial fusion power plants.
Proxima Fusion co-founder and chief executive officer, Dr Francesco Sciortino said the investment demonstrates growing confidence in Europe's ability to develop globally competitive fusion technology companies.
“Investors recognise both the urgency and the opportunity of what we are doing and are backing us to develop a generational energy technology company,” he said in a statement.
The company said Alpha is being developed in partnership with the State of Bavaria, the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics and RWE to validate key technologies for future fusion power plants.
Proxima Fusion said the new funding will also support the completion of its Stellarator Model Coil, expansion of high-temperature superconducting cable and magnet production, and recruitment across engineering, manufacturing and operations.
-- BERNAMA
HELICAL FUSION, HAZAMA ANDO PARTNER ON FUSION PILOT PLANT
KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 (Bernama) -- Helical Fusion Co Ltd (Helical Fusion) and Hazama Ando Corporation (Hazama Ando) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the future construction of Helix KANATA, Helical Fusion’s fusion pilot plant targeted for the 2030s.
The partnership also sees Hazama Ando joining the Helix Program as an Official Partner, strengthening the industrial and construction capabilities supporting Helical Fusion’s commercial fusion energy initiative.
Helical Fusion said the Helix Program, launched in April 2026, is designed to accelerate the development of commercially viable fusion power plants by bringing together industrial and engineering partners.
Helical Fusion Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Takaya Taguchi said the programme aims to deliver a new long-term energy source capable of sustaining future generations.
“The goal of the Helix Program is not only to realise commercial fusion power, but also to bring humanity a new source of energy that can sustain civilisation for generations to come,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Hazama Ando Representative Director and President, Kazuhiko Kuniya said the company would contribute its experience in power and energy infrastructure projects to support the development of fusion energy facilities.
Under the MoU, the two companies will study construction requirements and project execution approaches for future fusion energy facilities, including Helix KANATA and Helix HARUKA, an integrated demonstration device.
Founded in Japan, Helical Fusion is developing fusion power plants based on the Helical Stellarator approach, a magnetic-confinement fusion concept backed by decades of research at Japanese universities and public research institutions.
-- BERNAMA
The partnership also sees Hazama Ando joining the Helix Program as an Official Partner, strengthening the industrial and construction capabilities supporting Helical Fusion’s commercial fusion energy initiative.
Helical Fusion said the Helix Program, launched in April 2026, is designed to accelerate the development of commercially viable fusion power plants by bringing together industrial and engineering partners.
Helical Fusion Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Takaya Taguchi said the programme aims to deliver a new long-term energy source capable of sustaining future generations.
“The goal of the Helix Program is not only to realise commercial fusion power, but also to bring humanity a new source of energy that can sustain civilisation for generations to come,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Hazama Ando Representative Director and President, Kazuhiko Kuniya said the company would contribute its experience in power and energy infrastructure projects to support the development of fusion energy facilities.
Under the MoU, the two companies will study construction requirements and project execution approaches for future fusion energy facilities, including Helix KANATA and Helix HARUKA, an integrated demonstration device.
Founded in Japan, Helical Fusion is developing fusion power plants based on the Helical Stellarator approach, a magnetic-confinement fusion concept backed by decades of research at Japanese universities and public research institutions.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 3 July 2026
8X8 BAGS 2026 METRISTAR TOP PROVIDER FOR CPAAS BY METRIGY
KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- Global business communications platform provider, 8x8 Inc has been named a 2026 MetriStar Top Provider for Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) by Metrigy, an independent research and advisory firm.
The CPaaS recognition is part of a broader result in Metrigy’s 2026 MetriStar Award programme, with 8x8 also receiving the MetriStar Top Provider recognition for Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS).
“Most of the companies we work with are not just looking for a messaging API; they need the whole chain: campaign management, AI, analytics, and a contact centre that talks to all of it.
“This recognition from Metrigy validates our approach helping organisations improve customer satisfaction, drive growth, and simplify operations at scale,” said 8x8 General Manager, CPaaS, Sylvain Chaperon in a statement.
The awards are based on Metrigy’s Customer Experience MetriCast 2026 study, which surveyed 1,437 customer experience (CX) leaders across 10 countries in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.
8x8 achieved above-average scores on both business success and customer sentiment, with particular strength in CSAT improvement, revenue growth, platform reliability, and no-code/low-code application quality.
Metrigy highlighted 8x8's integrated communications portfolio as a key differentiator, noting that the company is among a small number of vendors offering CPaaS, CCaaS, and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) within a single platform.
The research also highlighted 8x8's approach to treating CPaaS not as a standalone developer toolkit but as a programmable layer across the CX stack, expanding customer engagement capabilities beyond the contact centre to sales, field service, and frontline teams.
-- BERNAMA
The CPaaS recognition is part of a broader result in Metrigy’s 2026 MetriStar Award programme, with 8x8 also receiving the MetriStar Top Provider recognition for Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS).
“Most of the companies we work with are not just looking for a messaging API; they need the whole chain: campaign management, AI, analytics, and a contact centre that talks to all of it.
“This recognition from Metrigy validates our approach helping organisations improve customer satisfaction, drive growth, and simplify operations at scale,” said 8x8 General Manager, CPaaS, Sylvain Chaperon in a statement.
The awards are based on Metrigy’s Customer Experience MetriCast 2026 study, which surveyed 1,437 customer experience (CX) leaders across 10 countries in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific.
8x8 achieved above-average scores on both business success and customer sentiment, with particular strength in CSAT improvement, revenue growth, platform reliability, and no-code/low-code application quality.
Metrigy highlighted 8x8's integrated communications portfolio as a key differentiator, noting that the company is among a small number of vendors offering CPaaS, CCaaS, and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) within a single platform.
The research also highlighted 8x8's approach to treating CPaaS not as a standalone developer toolkit but as a programmable layer across the CX stack, expanding customer engagement capabilities beyond the contact centre to sales, field service, and frontline teams.
-- BERNAMA
From Crypto to Gold: UEX Launches First Cross-Asset Trading Tournament
VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 2 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched the UEX Futures League, a new trading competition that brings crypto and traditional financial markets into a single competitive format. Spanning two months and two asset classes, the league creates a unified pathway from online qualification to the UEX Global Alpha Tournament (GAT), an invitation-only live championship event.
Most trading competitions today focus on a single market, whether crypto, forex, or CFDs. Yet trading itself has become increasingly cross-asset, with traders moving between cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, and currencies as opportunities emerge. The UEX Futures League is built around that reality, allowing participants to compete across multiple markets through one account, one competition structure, and one route to the finals.
The competition begins with a Crypto Futures stage running from June 1 to June 30, followed by a CFD stage from July 1 to July 31. Each stage features a prize pool of 120,000 USDT and uses a captain-led team format where participants compete on ROI while representing their teams. The top eight teams from each stage will qualify for the UEX Global Alpha Tournament.
“Trading has always been competitive, but it's also one of the most social parts of our industry,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “The UEX Futures League brings those elements together by turning trading into a team experience where users can collaborate and represent their communities. By bringing crypto and traditional markets into a single competition, we're creating something that's not just about performance, but about the people and connection that make trading so engaging.”
The UEX Global Alpha Tournament will bring together 16 qualifying teams, each represented by their top three traders, for an all-expenses-paid trip to a secret destination. Teams will compete in a series of live trading rounds for a grand prize, transforming online performance into a live championship experience. By combining crypto, CFDs, team-based competition, and live finals, UEX introduces a new format that draws inspiration from esports while reflecting how modern traders increasingly operate across multiple asset classes.
The league serves as a practical showcase of UEX's broader vision, where crypto, commodities, foreign exchange products, indices, and other global markets exist within a unified trading environment. Rather than introducing users to these markets through tutorials or demonstrations, the competition allows participants to explore them through real trading activity and competition.
Registration for the UEX Futures League is now open. 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/c91833b3-bb6a-4337-9b00-56f5bd5cbd2a
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, 1 July 2026
NINE FUNDS EARN PERFECT SCORES IN GLOBAL SWF GSR SCOREBOARD
KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- Global SWF has published the seventh edition of its Governance, Sustainability, and Resilience (GSR) Scoreboard, with nine institutions achieving perfect scores in the 2026 assessment of state-owned investors.
“We are very satisfied with the increasing response and accountability of sovereign investors, which recognise the importance of adopting best practices and embracing change and evolution.
“This year, the nine perfect scorers from around the world demonstrated robustness and hardiness in the context of geopolitical uncertainty and market volatility,” said Global SWF Founder and Managing Director, Diego López in a statement.
The annual assessment covers the world's 200 largest sovereign wealth funds and public pension funds, which manage US$34.0 trillion on behalf of 76 countries, and is based on 25 governance, sustainability and resilience indicators using publicly available information. (US$1=RM4.07)
This year's edition introduced three revised indicators to reflect the growing importance of relative financial performance, carbon emissions reporting, and the adoption of and investment in artificial intelligence (AI).
On a like-for-like basis, the average GSR score across the 200 funds edged up to 60 per cent, with sustainability and resilience scores improving while governance, including transparency, remained unchanged.
Governments worldwide, including those in deficit economies, continue to establish new strategic investment vehicles, underscoring the importance of promoting industry best practices and strong institutional role models.
Nearly two-thirds of the assessed funds have adopted or invested in AI, with half reporting their first AI-related initiatives during the past 12 months. Institutions in Oceania recorded the strongest performance, followed by Europe and North America, while Asian funds scored just above the overall threshold.
Global SWF is an industry specialist that promotes greater understanding of state-owned investors through its data platform, research reports, consulting services, executive education programmes and industry events.
-- BERNAMA
“We are very satisfied with the increasing response and accountability of sovereign investors, which recognise the importance of adopting best practices and embracing change and evolution.
“This year, the nine perfect scorers from around the world demonstrated robustness and hardiness in the context of geopolitical uncertainty and market volatility,” said Global SWF Founder and Managing Director, Diego López in a statement.
The annual assessment covers the world's 200 largest sovereign wealth funds and public pension funds, which manage US$34.0 trillion on behalf of 76 countries, and is based on 25 governance, sustainability and resilience indicators using publicly available information. (US$1=RM4.07)
This year's edition introduced three revised indicators to reflect the growing importance of relative financial performance, carbon emissions reporting, and the adoption of and investment in artificial intelligence (AI).
On a like-for-like basis, the average GSR score across the 200 funds edged up to 60 per cent, with sustainability and resilience scores improving while governance, including transparency, remained unchanged.
Governments worldwide, including those in deficit economies, continue to establish new strategic investment vehicles, underscoring the importance of promoting industry best practices and strong institutional role models.
Nearly two-thirds of the assessed funds have adopted or invested in AI, with half reporting their first AI-related initiatives during the past 12 months. Institutions in Oceania recorded the strongest performance, followed by Europe and North America, while Asian funds scored just above the overall threshold.
Global SWF is an industry specialist that promotes greater understanding of state-owned investors through its data platform, research reports, consulting services, executive education programmes and industry events.
-- BERNAMA
ATON LAUNCHES AI-POWERED FAMILY SAFETY PLATFORM AMID BULLYING CONCERNS
KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- ATON Inc has launched FamGuard, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered family safety platform designed to help parents monitor children's digital activities and identify potential signs of online risks, as concerns over school bullying and cyberbullying continue to grow in Singapore.
The launch comes amid heightened public attention to child safety following the widely reported Sengkang Green Primary School bullying case, which sparked broader discussions on student protection and the early identification of behavioural warning signs.
ATON said FamGuard combines real-time location tracking with AI-powered Conversation Insights and Friend Scoring to help parents better understand changes in their children's communication patterns and social interactions, enabling earlier conversations when unusual behaviour is detected.
“Technology cannot replace parents, but it can help families stay connected earlier and start conversations sooner,” an ATON representative said in a statement.
The platform also offers parental control features, including Screen Time Management, App Usage Monitoring and App Controls, to help families encourage healthier digital habits and oversee smartphone usage.
The company said growing use of messaging applications, social media and online group interactions has broadened expectations for family safety services beyond location tracking to include greater visibility into children's digital environments and behavioural patterns.
The launch follows research indicating that one in four upper primary school students in Singapore has experienced bullying, while many parents remain concerned about children's exposure to cyberbullying and other online risks.
ATON said FamGuard was developed to support families seeking additional tools to strengthen digital safety while complementing parental engagement and communication.
-- BERNAMA
The launch comes amid heightened public attention to child safety following the widely reported Sengkang Green Primary School bullying case, which sparked broader discussions on student protection and the early identification of behavioural warning signs.
ATON said FamGuard combines real-time location tracking with AI-powered Conversation Insights and Friend Scoring to help parents better understand changes in their children's communication patterns and social interactions, enabling earlier conversations when unusual behaviour is detected.
“Technology cannot replace parents, but it can help families stay connected earlier and start conversations sooner,” an ATON representative said in a statement.
The platform also offers parental control features, including Screen Time Management, App Usage Monitoring and App Controls, to help families encourage healthier digital habits and oversee smartphone usage.
The company said growing use of messaging applications, social media and online group interactions has broadened expectations for family safety services beyond location tracking to include greater visibility into children's digital environments and behavioural patterns.
The launch follows research indicating that one in four upper primary school students in Singapore has experienced bullying, while many parents remain concerned about children's exposure to cyberbullying and other online risks.
ATON said FamGuard was developed to support families seeking additional tools to strengthen digital safety while complementing parental engagement and communication.
-- BERNAMA
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)