KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a” (Excellent) of Hong Kong’s CMB Wing Lung Insurance Company Limited (CMBWLI), with a stable outlook.
In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect CMBWLI’s very strong balance sheet strength, strong operating performance, neutral business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The company’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its robust risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio. Capital and surplus recorded mid- to high-single-digit growth in 2024 and 2025, benefiting from partial retention of its sustained and stable operating profits.
CMBWLI maintains a prudent investment strategy, enhancing bond portfolio quality while keeping cash and cash equivalents as its largest asset class. Additional supporting factors include its strong regulatory solvency position, positive liquidity, and comprehensive reinsurance programme with moderate dependency.
Its operating performance remains strong, with high-single-digit average returns on equity over the past five years (2021 to 2025). Despite a slight decline of topline in 2025 due to competitive market conditions, the company maintained a net/net combined ratio consistently below 90 per cent, outperforming the broader market.
CMBWLI’s investment performance also improved, supported by stable interest and dividend income, fair value gains on listed securities, and recovery of impairment loss.
As a medium-sized non-life insurer in Hong Kong, CMBWLI is one of the major market players in the employees’ compensation segment, with a diversified portfolio spanning motor and property damage lines.
Backed by China Merchants Group Limited, the company expects further growth in marine insurance and is exploring opportunities in inward property damage business beyond Hong Kong.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 3 April 2026
Thursday, 2 April 2026
VISUAL BANK EXPANDS AI TRAINING DATA SOLUTION FOR JAPANESE SPEECH MODELS
KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 (Bernama) -- Visual Bank Inc, via its subsidiary amanaimages Inc, has announced the expansion of its Qlean Dataset, a premium artificial intelligence (AI) training data solution for developers building high-performance Japanese speech foundation models.
The expansion strengthens its position in providing rights-cleared datasets for research and development and large-scale AI applications.
“As demand for culturally contextualised foundation models grows, high-quality, legally compliant Japanese training data is becoming increasingly critical.
“Visual Bank is committed to bridging the gap between raw content and production-ready AI systems through rigorous data preparation and engineering,” said its chief executive officer, Saneyuki Nagai, in a statement.
The datasets are fully rights-cleared for commercial use and aligned with global compliance standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
They include high-fidelity audio assets recorded at 48 kilohertz (kHz)/16-bit or higher, enabling capture of both studio-quality speech and diverse acoustic environments.
In addition, the datasets support detection of harmful language, including hate speech and abusive prompts, and include evaluation datasets aligned with international benchmarks such as MMSU to assess reasoning and linguistic nuance in Japanese.
The solution also incorporates Japan-specific audio, including traditional and urban sound environments, to support multimodal and spatial AI applications.
The datasets are available through AI Data Recipe, which offers both ready-to-use datasets and customised data production, including speaker casting, recording and annotation tailored to specific development needs.
-- BERNAMA
The expansion strengthens its position in providing rights-cleared datasets for research and development and large-scale AI applications.
“As demand for culturally contextualised foundation models grows, high-quality, legally compliant Japanese training data is becoming increasingly critical.
“Visual Bank is committed to bridging the gap between raw content and production-ready AI systems through rigorous data preparation and engineering,” said its chief executive officer, Saneyuki Nagai, in a statement.
The datasets are fully rights-cleared for commercial use and aligned with global compliance standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).
They include high-fidelity audio assets recorded at 48 kilohertz (kHz)/16-bit or higher, enabling capture of both studio-quality speech and diverse acoustic environments.
In addition, the datasets support detection of harmful language, including hate speech and abusive prompts, and include evaluation datasets aligned with international benchmarks such as MMSU to assess reasoning and linguistic nuance in Japanese.
The solution also incorporates Japan-specific audio, including traditional and urban sound environments, to support multimodal and spatial AI applications.
The datasets are available through AI Data Recipe, which offers both ready-to-use datasets and customised data production, including speaker casting, recording and annotation tailored to specific development needs.
-- BERNAMA
OMNI BRIDGEWAY NAMES PETER GALGAY TO DRIVE CAPITAL STRATEGY
KUALA LUMPUR, April 2 (Bernama) -- Omni Bridgeway, a global leader in litigation financing and risk management, has appointed Peter Galgay as Head of Commercial Strategy and Capital Solutions based in New York.
According to Omni Bridgeway in a statement, Galgay's primary focus will be on expanding the company’s capabilities in origination, underwriting, and management of large-scale structured finance and alternative investment solutions for legal assets.
Additionally, he is set to be a key player in supporting Omni Bridgeway’s global investor relations and capital formation initiatives.
“Peter brings a unique blend of investment leadership, capital markets expertise, and first‑hand experience in all aspects of legal finance.
“He knows Omni Bridgeway well, and his strategic insight, commercial drive and global perspective will be instrumental as we continue to expand our capital solutions offering for legal assets,” said its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Raymond van Hulst.
Meanwhile, Galgay expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is honoured to join Omni Bridgeway and is looking forward to collaborating with teams worldwide to advance the company's capital solution capabilities and support clients through scalable investment partnerships.
Prior to joining Omni Bridgeway, Galgay served for over a decade as Chief Investment Officer for a Singapore-based family office. Earlier in his professional life, Galgay worked as a Senior Analyst in Ernst & Young’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services practice and also held a position as an Equity Portfolio Manager at Deutsche Asset Management.
Galgay is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and holds a Master of Arts in International Business and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida, alongside a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.
-- BERNAMA
According to Omni Bridgeway in a statement, Galgay's primary focus will be on expanding the company’s capabilities in origination, underwriting, and management of large-scale structured finance and alternative investment solutions for legal assets.
Additionally, he is set to be a key player in supporting Omni Bridgeway’s global investor relations and capital formation initiatives.
“Peter brings a unique blend of investment leadership, capital markets expertise, and first‑hand experience in all aspects of legal finance.
“He knows Omni Bridgeway well, and his strategic insight, commercial drive and global perspective will be instrumental as we continue to expand our capital solutions offering for legal assets,” said its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Raymond van Hulst.
Meanwhile, Galgay expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is honoured to join Omni Bridgeway and is looking forward to collaborating with teams worldwide to advance the company's capital solution capabilities and support clients through scalable investment partnerships.
Prior to joining Omni Bridgeway, Galgay served for over a decade as Chief Investment Officer for a Singapore-based family office. Earlier in his professional life, Galgay worked as a Senior Analyst in Ernst & Young’s Fraud Investigation & Dispute Services practice and also held a position as an Equity Portfolio Manager at Deutsche Asset Management.
Galgay is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder and holds a Master of Arts in International Business and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Florida, alongside a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 1 April 2026
NEINOR PARTNERS STONESHIELD ON 150 MLN EUROS MARBELLA RESIDENTIAL PROJECT
KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Bernama) -- Neinor Homes (Neinor), Spain’s listed residential developer, has partnered with Stoneshield Capital (Stoneshield) to develop a 150 million euro premium residential project in Marbella, marking its entry into the high-end residential segment. (1 Euro = RM4.65)
“This partnership demonstrates the strength of our platform, combining development expertise with institutional capital to deliver high-quality projects,” said Neinor Chief Executive Officer, Borja García-Egotxeaga in a statement.
The development will comprise 262 homes across more than 60,000 square metres, adjacent to Río Real Golf Course and close to Marbella city centre, Puerto Banús and the beach.
It will include a 1,200 square metre private members’ club featuring wellness areas, pools, sports facilities and landscaped spaces.
The project is one of the largest residential developments launched in Marbella in recent years, with expected revenues exceeding 600 million euros over the next five years.
Under the joint venture structure, Stoneshield will hold a 70 per cent stake and Neinor 30 per cent, with Neinor acting as delegated developer across the full development lifecycle.
The investment reflects strong fundamentals in Marbella, supported by robust international demand and limited land supply.
The transaction reinforces Neinor’s asset management platform, which has deployed over 1.3 billion euros alongside institutional investors including AXA IM Alts, Orion Capital, King Street and Bain Capital.
-- BERNAMA
“This partnership demonstrates the strength of our platform, combining development expertise with institutional capital to deliver high-quality projects,” said Neinor Chief Executive Officer, Borja García-Egotxeaga in a statement.
The development will comprise 262 homes across more than 60,000 square metres, adjacent to Río Real Golf Course and close to Marbella city centre, Puerto Banús and the beach.
It will include a 1,200 square metre private members’ club featuring wellness areas, pools, sports facilities and landscaped spaces.
The project is one of the largest residential developments launched in Marbella in recent years, with expected revenues exceeding 600 million euros over the next five years.
Under the joint venture structure, Stoneshield will hold a 70 per cent stake and Neinor 30 per cent, with Neinor acting as delegated developer across the full development lifecycle.
The investment reflects strong fundamentals in Marbella, supported by robust international demand and limited land supply.
The transaction reinforces Neinor’s asset management platform, which has deployed over 1.3 billion euros alongside institutional investors including AXA IM Alts, Orion Capital, King Street and Bain Capital.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 30 March 2026
Axi Launches New Axi Select Webinar Series Following Successful Bloomberg Campaign
SYDNEY, March 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global online trading provider Axi has announced the launch of a new educational webinar series under its Axi Select programme, expanding its trader education initiative following the successful completion of its recent Bloomberg campaign. The first webinar is scheduled to take place in April 2026 and will form part of an ongoing series designed to deliver expert-led market insights and practical trading education to Axi’s global trading community.
The new webinar series represents the next phase of Axi’s commitment to supporting trader development through accessible, professional-grade education. Building on strong audience engagement generated during the Bloomberg campaign, the initiative aims to provide traders with deeper market understanding, structured learning opportunities, and direct access to experienced market professionals.
Greg Rubin, Head of Axi Select at Axi, said:
“The Bloomberg campaign highlighted a growing demand for credible, expert-led education that helps traders better understand today’s fast-moving markets. Launching the Axi Select webinar series allows us to continue that conversation by giving traders direct access to insights, analysis, and practical knowledge designed to support long-term trading development.”
The inaugural session will be hosted by Cassandra Ng, a financial markets analyst, educator, and trading specialist with extensive experience delivering market commentary and trading education to global audiences. The session will focus on market outlooks, trading frameworks, and risk management principles aimed at helping traders navigate evolving market conditions with greater confidence.
Cassandra commented:
“Education is essential for traders looking to build consistency and discipline in the markets. This webinar series is designed to simplify complex market movements and provide actionable insights that traders can apply within their own strategies.”
About the Presenter
Cassandra Ng is a prop firm trader and market analyst at an award-winning research firm - where her research powers the decisions of thousands of traders every day. Her speciality is in Elliott wave and Fibonacci - which she uses to forecast where the markets are heading. With years of experience working with retail and professional traders, her speciality is in translating complex financial concepts into practical trading knowledge through webinars, workshops, and market analysis.
The webinar series extends Axi’s broader mission to empower traders through education, technology, and structured development opportunities. By moving from broadcast engagement into interactive learning experiences, Axi continues to strengthen its focus on providing meaningful value beyond trading access alone.
Registration is now open, and traders can secure their place by visiting:
https://axicorp.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_h2n3EqLTT-qQww5BZtrx2g
About Axi
Axi is a global online trading brand offering access to forex, shares, indices, commodities, and digital assets. Through initiatives such as Axi Select, Axi supports traders worldwide with education, technology, and professional trading tools.
Media Contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com
For full details on the Axi Select program, visit: https://www.axi.com/int/funded-trader-program
The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader LLC. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to our Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply.
SOURCE: Axi Trader LLC
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
SBC MEDICAL Q4 2025 REVENUE FALLS, NET INCOME SURGES
KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 (Bernama) -- SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated (SBC Medical) reported an 11 per cent year-on-year decline in fourth-quarter (Q4) revenue to US$40 million for the three months ended Dec 31, 2025, following restructuring and changes to its franchise model. (US$1=RM4.01)
However, the company’s net income for the quarter rose 117 per cent to US$14 million, reflecting improved profitability despite weaker top-line performance.
In a statement, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Yoshiyuki Aikawa said the results reflect a business in transition, citing restructuring in 2024 and revised franchise fee arrangements implemented in April 2025 as key drivers of the revenue decline.
Earnings per share increased 133 per cent to US$0.14, although earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined 35 per cent to US$14 million, with margins narrowing to 34 per cent.
Operational indicators showed resilience, with average revenue per customer recovered to US$316, an 11 per cent increase year-over-year—a meaningful inflection after a period of gradual decline and one that reflects the early impact of its pricing and customer engagement initiatives.
The company ended the year with 283 franchise locations and 6.6 million customers over the past 12 months, both higher than a year earlier.
Looking ahead, SBC Medical plans to expand its dermatology-focused multi-brand strategy, grow its non-aesthetic healthcare segment and strengthen its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
However, the company’s net income for the quarter rose 117 per cent to US$14 million, reflecting improved profitability despite weaker top-line performance.
In a statement, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Yoshiyuki Aikawa said the results reflect a business in transition, citing restructuring in 2024 and revised franchise fee arrangements implemented in April 2025 as key drivers of the revenue decline.
Earnings per share increased 133 per cent to US$0.14, although earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) declined 35 per cent to US$14 million, with margins narrowing to 34 per cent.
Operational indicators showed resilience, with average revenue per customer recovered to US$316, an 11 per cent increase year-over-year—a meaningful inflection after a period of gradual decline and one that reflects the early impact of its pricing and customer engagement initiatives.
The company ended the year with 283 franchise locations and 6.6 million customers over the past 12 months, both higher than a year earlier.
Looking ahead, SBC Medical plans to expand its dermatology-focused multi-brand strategy, grow its non-aesthetic healthcare segment and strengthen its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 27 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS EXCELLENT RATINGS OF NAN SHAN GENERAL
KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) -- AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Taiwan’s Nan Shan General Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan General), with a stable outlook.
In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect Nan Shan General’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, improved to the strongest level at year-end 2025, supported by consistent earnings growth and partial profit retention.
AM Best expects the insurer to maintain its balance sheet strength over the medium term, backed by an insurance risk profile characterised by personal lines and small- to medium-sized commercial accounts, prudent investments and a sound reinsurance programme.
Operating performance remained favourable in 2025, driven by improved underwriting results and stable investment income. Premium growth has exceeded the industry average for three consecutive years, mainly driven by expansion in the voluntary motor, travel and commercial lines.
The insurer’s personal lines segment, accounting for about 74 per cent of its portfolio, benefited from positive underwriting margins, while its net operating expense and combined ratios edged down to 37.2 per cent and 90.0 per cent, respectively, representing the lowest levels for both metrics over the last five-year period. Return on equity remained at a double-digit level.
Investment performance also strengthened, supported by capital gains in equities and stable interest income from bonds. The company is expected to maintain a focus on domestic fixed-income securities with moderate equity exposure.
Nan Shan General benefits from its parent, Nan Shan Life Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan Life) through brand recognition, distribution support and capital backing, despite its relatively modest business scale.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect Nan Shan General’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, improved to the strongest level at year-end 2025, supported by consistent earnings growth and partial profit retention.
AM Best expects the insurer to maintain its balance sheet strength over the medium term, backed by an insurance risk profile characterised by personal lines and small- to medium-sized commercial accounts, prudent investments and a sound reinsurance programme.
Operating performance remained favourable in 2025, driven by improved underwriting results and stable investment income. Premium growth has exceeded the industry average for three consecutive years, mainly driven by expansion in the voluntary motor, travel and commercial lines.
The insurer’s personal lines segment, accounting for about 74 per cent of its portfolio, benefited from positive underwriting margins, while its net operating expense and combined ratios edged down to 37.2 per cent and 90.0 per cent, respectively, representing the lowest levels for both metrics over the last five-year period. Return on equity remained at a double-digit level.
Investment performance also strengthened, supported by capital gains in equities and stable interest income from bonds. The company is expected to maintain a focus on domestic fixed-income securities with moderate equity exposure.
Nan Shan General benefits from its parent, Nan Shan Life Insurance Co Ltd (Nan Shan Life) through brand recognition, distribution support and capital backing, despite its relatively modest business scale.
-- BERNAMA
GASENTEC APPOINTS MANOJ NARENDER MADNANI AS PRESIDENT
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- GasEntec, the global modular Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technology and infrastructure platform, has announced the appointment of Manoj Narender Madnani as its President.
Madnani will oversee global strategy, sovereign partnerships, and capital formation as GasEntec expands its technology-led LNG platform across high-growth markets in the Gulf, India, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Its Executive Chairman, Chong-ho Kwak in a statement said Madnani brings deep experience in cross-border energy infrastructure, capital markets, and sovereign engagement, strengthening the company’s ability to scale responsibly and drive long-term growth.
Madnani has over three decades of experience across the global energy value chain, including his recent role as Managing Director, International at MARA, where he supported energy and digital infrastructure initiatives across the Global South.
He previously spent nearly a decade with Kulczyk Investments, leading cross-border energy and infrastructure transactions across Europe, Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
GasEntec delivers modular LNG regasification and floating terminal solutions designed to accelerate deployment timelines and support energy security in markets requiring reliable, flexible baseload capacity.
Founded in South Korea, GasEntec has delivered LNG infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, serving sovereign, utility, and industrial clients.
-- BERNAMA
Madnani will oversee global strategy, sovereign partnerships, and capital formation as GasEntec expands its technology-led LNG platform across high-growth markets in the Gulf, India, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Its Executive Chairman, Chong-ho Kwak in a statement said Madnani brings deep experience in cross-border energy infrastructure, capital markets, and sovereign engagement, strengthening the company’s ability to scale responsibly and drive long-term growth.
Madnani has over three decades of experience across the global energy value chain, including his recent role as Managing Director, International at MARA, where he supported energy and digital infrastructure initiatives across the Global South.
He previously spent nearly a decade with Kulczyk Investments, leading cross-border energy and infrastructure transactions across Europe, Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
GasEntec delivers modular LNG regasification and floating terminal solutions designed to accelerate deployment timelines and support energy security in markets requiring reliable, flexible baseload capacity.
Founded in South Korea, GasEntec has delivered LNG infrastructure projects across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, serving sovereign, utility, and industrial clients.
-- BERNAMA
CARTA EXPANDS ASIA NETWORK WITH NEW HONG KONG HUB
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- Carta, the world’s first fully interconnected system for private capital, has announced the opening of its Hong Kong office.
The new office anchors a dual-hub network in Asia—alongside the existing Singapore regional headquarters—to modernise Hong Kong’s US$240 billion private markets ecosystem. (US$1=RM3.95)
“For years, we have watched the Hong Kong-Singapore corridor emerge as the primary route for private capital in Asia,” said Carta Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa, Bhavik Vashi in a statement.
Vashi added that the Hong Kong hub will meet fund managers where they are, providing the modern infrastructure needed to manage the next generation of Asian capital with confidence.
This expansion establishes a seamless operating corridor for fund managers across Asia’s most dynamic capital centres. While Singapore anchors activity across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, the Hong Kong office is strategically positioned to provide infrastructure for general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs) operating across the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
The timing aligns with Hong Kong’s return as a capital hub. As the region’s second-largest private markets hub, Hong Kong’s return to the #1 spot for initial public offering (IPO) activity has generated a significant wave of liquidity, driving strong demand for modern infrastructure across the private capital ecosystem.
The Hong Kong office launches with a team of professionals specialising in sales, marketing, customer experience, and fund administration. The team will provide end-to-end investment lifecycle services, including fund formation, capital calls, and automated waterfall modelling, all tailored to the local market, with support available in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English.
This expansion formalises Carta’s long-standing involvement in the city’s institutional ecosystem. Having participated in major industry forums like the HKVCA’s Asia Private Equity Forum (APEF) and the Asia Venture Capital Journal (AVCJ) Private Equity Forum, Carta is transitioning from an ecosystem participant to a permanent local partner for firms in the GBA.
Hong Kong marks Carta’s 15th office worldwide, further cementing its commitment to serving the full spectrum of private capital participants—from emerging managers to established multi-billion dollar platforms—across its network, which also includes Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Sydney.
-- BERNAMA
The new office anchors a dual-hub network in Asia—alongside the existing Singapore regional headquarters—to modernise Hong Kong’s US$240 billion private markets ecosystem. (US$1=RM3.95)
“For years, we have watched the Hong Kong-Singapore corridor emerge as the primary route for private capital in Asia,” said Carta Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa, Bhavik Vashi in a statement.
Vashi added that the Hong Kong hub will meet fund managers where they are, providing the modern infrastructure needed to manage the next generation of Asian capital with confidence.
This expansion establishes a seamless operating corridor for fund managers across Asia’s most dynamic capital centres. While Singapore anchors activity across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, the Hong Kong office is strategically positioned to provide infrastructure for general partners (GPs) and limited partners (LPs) operating across the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
The timing aligns with Hong Kong’s return as a capital hub. As the region’s second-largest private markets hub, Hong Kong’s return to the #1 spot for initial public offering (IPO) activity has generated a significant wave of liquidity, driving strong demand for modern infrastructure across the private capital ecosystem.
The Hong Kong office launches with a team of professionals specialising in sales, marketing, customer experience, and fund administration. The team will provide end-to-end investment lifecycle services, including fund formation, capital calls, and automated waterfall modelling, all tailored to the local market, with support available in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English.
This expansion formalises Carta’s long-standing involvement in the city’s institutional ecosystem. Having participated in major industry forums like the HKVCA’s Asia Private Equity Forum (APEF) and the Asia Venture Capital Journal (AVCJ) Private Equity Forum, Carta is transitioning from an ecosystem participant to a permanent local partner for firms in the GBA.
Hong Kong marks Carta’s 15th office worldwide, further cementing its commitment to serving the full spectrum of private capital participants—from emerging managers to established multi-billion dollar platforms—across its network, which also includes Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Sydney.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, 26 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS AUSTRALIA’S PACIFIC CREDIT RATINGS
KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- AM Best has affirmed Australia’s Pacific International Insurance Pty Limited (Pacific) financial strength rating of B++ (Good) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “bbb” (Good), with a stable outlook.
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect Pacific’s strong balance sheet, adequate operating performance, limited business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). The assessment also factors in a neutral impact from its ultimate owner, Badger Mutual Wealth (Pty) Ltd, an insurance group domiciled in South Africa.
In a statement, AM Best said it upgraded Pacific’s balance sheet strength from adequate to strong, reflecting risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level as of fiscal year-end June 30, 2025, measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio.
The company is expected to maintain strong capitalisation, supported by positive earnings generation and robust financial flexibility, including a history of capital injections. Moderate dependence on reinsurance is partly offset by the sound credit quality of its reinsurance panel.
Operating performance is assessed as adequate. Over the past five fiscal years, Pacific’s performance has improved steadily. In fiscal year 2025 (FY 2025), the company reported a net/net combined ratio of 95.2 per cent under IFRS 17 and a return on equity of 16.6 per cent, supported by solid underwriting results and stable investment income, while investment returns contributed a net yield of 6.2 per cent in FY 2025.
Pacific’s business profile is considered limited, reflecting its growing but relatively modest operational scale. Recent premium growth has been elevated, with a significant portion ceded to reinsurers.
Its net retained portfolio includes motor, pet, travel insurance, and a motor novated lease partnership. Medium-term net underwriting growth is expected to remain elevated.
The company’s ERM is deemed appropriate for the company’s size and complexity, with ongoing strengthening expected to support operational expansion. Regulatory compliance remains a focus, particularly given developments in Australia and New Zealand.
Following a 2024 review by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, Pacific remains on track to complete its remediation programme under regulator oversight by 2026.
-- BERNAMA
Bitget Brings Trading to the Track with MotoGP Brazil Activation and Smarter Speed Challenge
VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), marked the opening of the 2026 MotoGP™ season in Brazil with an on-site activation and the expansion of its Smarter Speed Challenge mini-game, blending trading concepts with motorsport experiences.
The Brazilian Grand Prix, held from March 20-22 at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiânia, represents Bitget’s first sponsored MotoGP event in South America. Following activations across Italy, Germany, Catalunya, and Indonesia in 2025, the latest stop signals a continued focus on engaging new audiences in growing markets.
At the circuit, Bitget introduced a two-storey innovation fan booth designed to connect trading with interactive experiences. Visitors engaged with racing simulators, a VR racing game, and immersive installations, while also exploring how different asset classes can be approached within a unified trading environment. A branded VIP lounge offered an exclusive setting for partners and clients, alongside trackside visibility through circuit branding and global broadcast placements.
The activation extended beyond the physical venue through the Smarter Speed Challenge mini-game, which reimagines trading as a racing experience. In the game, assets such as cryptocurrencies, U.S. stocks and gold are represented as race tracks and collectible objectives, translating market concepts into a more intuitive and interactive format.
Since its launch on March 2, the mini-game has attracted approximately 100,000 participants, with a prize pool exceeding 120,000 USDT. Designed to bridge Web2 and Web3 audiences, the experience allows both traders and motorsport fans to engage with Bitget’s “one-stop trading” concept in a more accessible way. A limited-time in-game feature introduced during the Brazil Grand Prix offers additional rewards tied to the event.
“The way people engage with markets is evolving, and experiences play a bigger role in that shift,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “Bringing trading concepts into familiar environments like sports allows more people to understand and explore them in a natural way.”
The Smarter Speed Challenge reflects Bitget’s broader Universal Exchange strategy, where crypto and traditional financial assets coexist within a single platform. By translating these markets into interactive formats, Bitget is expanding how users discover and approach trading opportunities across asset classes.
While the Brazil Grand Prix marked the start of the 2026 season, the Smarter Speed Challenge continues beyond the track, with ongoing rewards and future activations planned alongside upcoming races.
To participate in the Smarter Speed Challenge, please 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.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c942fa7-a221-43fc-a762-55c73d41b535
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/756c86be-8d07-484a-bf97-a7c71d46771b
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d67ce25d-ecc8-474c-93c0-0ffb6a74d8f9
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
DIGITAL REALTY POWERS SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS IT OPERATIONS IN SEOUL
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- Digital Realty, the world’s largest cloud- and carrier-neutral data centre platform, announced it is providing enterprise-grade colocation infrastructure support to Samsung Electronics in Seoul.
According to a statement, this engagement leverages Digital Realty’s ICN10 data centre to deliver stable and scalable infrastructure crucial for Samsung’s enterprise information technology (IT) operations.
Digital Realty Head of Korea, Chris Han noted that providing this enterprise-grade infrastructure at ICN10 reflects the company’s ability to support large-scale customer environments in Korea.
Han affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering stable, high-performance infrastructure that meets the operational needs of global enterprises.
The ICN10 facility in Sangam-dong, which has operated since 2022, is specifically designed to support secure, scalable, and resilient infrastructure required for large-scale data processing and high availability. It offers robust power, cooling, and security for mission-critical enterprise environments.
The facility features a maximum IT capacity of 12 megawatt (MW) and is noted as Korea’s first carrier-neutral data centre. Its infrastructure is built with high-density power architecture and resilient network connectivity to support demanding AI and high-performance computing workloads.
Digital Realty’s global platform also enables consistent infrastructure standards and operational practices across key metros worldwide, helping enterprises maintain reliable infrastructure performance across multiple regions.
-- BERNAMA
According to a statement, this engagement leverages Digital Realty’s ICN10 data centre to deliver stable and scalable infrastructure crucial for Samsung’s enterprise information technology (IT) operations.
Digital Realty Head of Korea, Chris Han noted that providing this enterprise-grade infrastructure at ICN10 reflects the company’s ability to support large-scale customer environments in Korea.
Han affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering stable, high-performance infrastructure that meets the operational needs of global enterprises.
The ICN10 facility in Sangam-dong, which has operated since 2022, is specifically designed to support secure, scalable, and resilient infrastructure required for large-scale data processing and high availability. It offers robust power, cooling, and security for mission-critical enterprise environments.
The facility features a maximum IT capacity of 12 megawatt (MW) and is noted as Korea’s first carrier-neutral data centre. Its infrastructure is built with high-density power architecture and resilient network connectivity to support demanding AI and high-performance computing workloads.
Digital Realty’s global platform also enables consistent infrastructure standards and operational practices across key metros worldwide, helping enterprises maintain reliable infrastructure performance across multiple regions.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 25 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS PANASIA RE RATINGS AT EXCELLENT LEVEL
KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed Hawaii’s PanAsia Reinsurance Inc (PanAsia Re) financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent), with a stable outlook.
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect PanAsia Re’s very strong balance sheet, adequate operating performance, limited business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management. The assessment also incorporates both implicit and explicit support from its parent, Hikari Tsushin Inc (Hikari Tsushin).
PanAsia Re’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by projected risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, supported by a significant capital injection from its parent in mid-2025, according to AM Best in a statement.
The company has demonstrated strong capital growth, expanding 102.9 per cent between fiscal year 2020 and fiscal year 2024, driven by profitable underwriting and capital infusion from the parent. Its low reliance on reinsurance and conservative investment strategy further support its capital position.
Operating performance is assessed as adequate, supported by consistent profitability with double-digit average return on equity and favourable combined ratios over the past five years.
The company’s small amount and short-term insurance (SASTI) segment, which forms the bulk of its portfolio, typically records low loss ratios, although commission expenses to its parent remain relatively high. PanAsia Re is pursuing gradual expansion of its SASTI business while exploring non-SASTI opportunities to diversify its premium base.
PanAsia Re operates under a captive licence, primarily reinsuring risks from affiliated entities, with selective third-party business subject to regulatory approval. Its business profile remains limited due to modest scale and concentration in Japan-originated personal property, health, and accident lines. The company’s risk management framework is closely integrated with that of its parent.
-- BERNAMA
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect PanAsia Re’s very strong balance sheet, adequate operating performance, limited business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management. The assessment also incorporates both implicit and explicit support from its parent, Hikari Tsushin Inc (Hikari Tsushin).
PanAsia Re’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by projected risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, supported by a significant capital injection from its parent in mid-2025, according to AM Best in a statement.
The company has demonstrated strong capital growth, expanding 102.9 per cent between fiscal year 2020 and fiscal year 2024, driven by profitable underwriting and capital infusion from the parent. Its low reliance on reinsurance and conservative investment strategy further support its capital position.
Operating performance is assessed as adequate, supported by consistent profitability with double-digit average return on equity and favourable combined ratios over the past five years.
The company’s small amount and short-term insurance (SASTI) segment, which forms the bulk of its portfolio, typically records low loss ratios, although commission expenses to its parent remain relatively high. PanAsia Re is pursuing gradual expansion of its SASTI business while exploring non-SASTI opportunities to diversify its premium base.
PanAsia Re operates under a captive licence, primarily reinsuring risks from affiliated entities, with selective third-party business subject to regulatory approval. Its business profile remains limited due to modest scale and concentration in Japan-originated personal property, health, and accident lines. The company’s risk management framework is closely integrated with that of its parent.
-- BERNAMA
HORIZON QUANTUM COMPLETES BUSINESS COMBINATION, LISTS ON NASDAQ
KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- Horizon Quantum Computing Pte Ltd (Horizon Quantum) has completed its business combination with dMY Squared Technology Group Inc (dMY), securing approximately US$120 million in gross proceeds and marking its public debut on the Nasdaq. (US$1=RM3.94)
In a statement, Horizon Quantum said the transaction, approved by dMY shareholders on March 17, will see the combined entity begin trading on March 20 under the ticker symbols “HQ” for shares and “HQWWW” for warrants.
Horizon Quantum develops software infrastructure designed to enable developers to leverage quantum computing for complex computational challenges. The proceeds from the transaction will be used to accelerate research and development, enhance its hardware testbed, and advance its integrated development environment, Triple Alpha.
“Recent rapid progress in quantum hardware and error correction signals an inflection point for the industry.
“With our Nasdaq listing, we are well-positioned to deliver the software infrastructure needed to power the next phase of computing and enable broad quantum advantage,” said Horizon Quantum Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Joe Fitzsimons.
Meanwhile, dMY Chairman and CEO, Harry You said Horizon Quantum’s hardware-agnostic approach positions it to benefit regardless of how quantum computing technologies evolve across competing modalities, including cloud-based systems.
Advisers to the transaction included Needham & Company LLC as exclusive financial adviser and placement agent, alongside legal counsel from Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP, and White & Case LLP, among others.
The listing underscores growing investor interest in quantum computing, as companies seek to commercialise software platforms capable of unlocking future computational capabilities.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, Horizon Quantum said the transaction, approved by dMY shareholders on March 17, will see the combined entity begin trading on March 20 under the ticker symbols “HQ” for shares and “HQWWW” for warrants.
Horizon Quantum develops software infrastructure designed to enable developers to leverage quantum computing for complex computational challenges. The proceeds from the transaction will be used to accelerate research and development, enhance its hardware testbed, and advance its integrated development environment, Triple Alpha.
“Recent rapid progress in quantum hardware and error correction signals an inflection point for the industry.
“With our Nasdaq listing, we are well-positioned to deliver the software infrastructure needed to power the next phase of computing and enable broad quantum advantage,” said Horizon Quantum Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Joe Fitzsimons.
Meanwhile, dMY Chairman and CEO, Harry You said Horizon Quantum’s hardware-agnostic approach positions it to benefit regardless of how quantum computing technologies evolve across competing modalities, including cloud-based systems.
Advisers to the transaction included Needham & Company LLC as exclusive financial adviser and placement agent, alongside legal counsel from Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP, and White & Case LLP, among others.
The listing underscores growing investor interest in quantum computing, as companies seek to commercialise software platforms capable of unlocking future computational capabilities.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 24 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS PVI INSURANCE’S TOP-TIER RATINGS
KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent), the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent), and the Vietnam National Scale Rating of aaa.VN (Exceptional) for PVI Insurance Corporation (PVI Insurance), with a stable outlook.
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect PVI Insurance’s very strong balance sheet, strong operating performance, neutral business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management. The affirmation also factors in rating support from its ultimate parent, HDI Haftpflichtverband der Deutschen Industrie V.a.G. (HDI V.a.G.).
The global credit rating agency said in a statement that PVI Insurance’s balance sheet strength is supported by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, measured via Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term.
The company benefits from financial flexibility as a majority-owned subsidiary of HDI V.a.G. Its investment portfolio is considered moderate risk, primarily in cash and term deposits, supplemented by non-rated corporate bonds, affiliated private equity, and real estate.
Offsetting factors include a high dividend payout ratio and reliance on reinsurance for underwriting large commercial property, engineering, and energy risks.
Operating performance is strong, supported by a five-year average return on equity ratio of 16.7 per cent from fiscal year (FY) 2021 to FY 2025. FY 2025 earnings improved due to favourable loss experience and reserve development following Typhoon Yagi.
Profitable results in both commercial and retail lines, combined with stable investment income from interest and dividends, are expected to continue driving overall earnings.
PVI Insurance’s business profile is assessed as neutral. It remains Vietnam’s largest non-life insurer based on 2024 and nine months of 2025 direct premiums written. The company holds strong positions in commercial and industrial lines, including energy, property, engineering, aviation, and marine insurance.
Support from HDI V.a.G. has enhanced technical expertise and service offerings, strengthening PVI Insurance’s regional position in industrial risk coverage. Recent growth has been driven by expansion in inwards reinsurance, while prudent accumulation management continues to be monitored.
-- BERNAMA
The credit ratings (ratings) reflect PVI Insurance’s very strong balance sheet, strong operating performance, neutral business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management. The affirmation also factors in rating support from its ultimate parent, HDI Haftpflichtverband der Deutschen Industrie V.a.G. (HDI V.a.G.).
The global credit rating agency said in a statement that PVI Insurance’s balance sheet strength is supported by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, measured via Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term.
The company benefits from financial flexibility as a majority-owned subsidiary of HDI V.a.G. Its investment portfolio is considered moderate risk, primarily in cash and term deposits, supplemented by non-rated corporate bonds, affiliated private equity, and real estate.
Offsetting factors include a high dividend payout ratio and reliance on reinsurance for underwriting large commercial property, engineering, and energy risks.
Operating performance is strong, supported by a five-year average return on equity ratio of 16.7 per cent from fiscal year (FY) 2021 to FY 2025. FY 2025 earnings improved due to favourable loss experience and reserve development following Typhoon Yagi.
Profitable results in both commercial and retail lines, combined with stable investment income from interest and dividends, are expected to continue driving overall earnings.
PVI Insurance’s business profile is assessed as neutral. It remains Vietnam’s largest non-life insurer based on 2024 and nine months of 2025 direct premiums written. The company holds strong positions in commercial and industrial lines, including energy, property, engineering, aviation, and marine insurance.
Support from HDI V.a.G. has enhanced technical expertise and service offerings, strengthening PVI Insurance’s regional position in industrial risk coverage. Recent growth has been driven by expansion in inwards reinsurance, while prudent accumulation management continues to be monitored.
-- BERNAMA
DMITRY SHUBOV: AI LOCK-IN RISK RISES FOR SOUTHEAST ASIA LEGAL-TECH
KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- Southeast Asian legal-tech startups targeting United States (US) expansion face mounting compliance and commercial risks as governments and enterprise buyers increasingly favour region-specific artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, in line with projections from Gartner.
“As suggested by Gartner’s findings, decisions about platforms require careful consideration. Founders who treat AI-platform and data-residency decisions as investor-grade deliverables will encounter fewer surprises when entering the US market,” said Dmitry Shubov Consulting Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dmitry Shubov in a statement.
Platform lock-in—driven by sovereign cloud frameworks and country-specific AI ecosystems—is expected to surge from five per cent to 35 per cent by 2027, complicating cross-border deployment strategies.
Founders pursuing US-based pilots, enterprise contracts, or fundraising must now account for stricter data residency, processing, and transfer requirements.
Governments and large buyers are increasingly mandating the use of approved local platforms, limiting cross-border data movement and introducing new operational constraints.
While regional large language models (LLMs) may offer advantages in regulatory alignment and multilingual capability, deploying across multiple jurisdictions can create friction for US customers and investors.
The shift is also raising due diligence standards. US stakeholders now expect investor-grade transparency, including auditable data flow diagrams, clear subprocessor disclosures, and legally compliant transfer mechanisms such as standard contractual clauses (SCCs) or binding corporate rules (BCRs).
These evolving requirements have direct commercial implications. Startups that proactively structure data governance frameworks and residency strategies can accelerate procurement cycles, reduce transaction risk, and improve valuation outcomes by addressing investor concerns early.
Dmitry Shubov Consulting advises Southeast Asian legal-tech firms on translating region-specific AI and cloud risks into investor-ready frameworks, including data mapping, contractual playbooks, and US go-to-market strategies.
-- BERNAMA
“As suggested by Gartner’s findings, decisions about platforms require careful consideration. Founders who treat AI-platform and data-residency decisions as investor-grade deliverables will encounter fewer surprises when entering the US market,” said Dmitry Shubov Consulting Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dmitry Shubov in a statement.
Platform lock-in—driven by sovereign cloud frameworks and country-specific AI ecosystems—is expected to surge from five per cent to 35 per cent by 2027, complicating cross-border deployment strategies.
Founders pursuing US-based pilots, enterprise contracts, or fundraising must now account for stricter data residency, processing, and transfer requirements.
Governments and large buyers are increasingly mandating the use of approved local platforms, limiting cross-border data movement and introducing new operational constraints.
While regional large language models (LLMs) may offer advantages in regulatory alignment and multilingual capability, deploying across multiple jurisdictions can create friction for US customers and investors.
The shift is also raising due diligence standards. US stakeholders now expect investor-grade transparency, including auditable data flow diagrams, clear subprocessor disclosures, and legally compliant transfer mechanisms such as standard contractual clauses (SCCs) or binding corporate rules (BCRs).
These evolving requirements have direct commercial implications. Startups that proactively structure data governance frameworks and residency strategies can accelerate procurement cycles, reduce transaction risk, and improve valuation outcomes by addressing investor concerns early.
Dmitry Shubov Consulting advises Southeast Asian legal-tech firms on translating region-specific AI and cloud risks into investor-ready frameworks, including data mapping, contractual playbooks, and US go-to-market strategies.
-- BERNAMA
Bitget and SlowMist Map Emerging Security Risks as AI Agents Begin Executing Trades
VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has collaborated with blockchain security firm SlowMist, to release a joint research report examining the risks emerging as AI systems begin executing trades autonomously. As trading enters this “agentic” phase, where systems move beyond analysis into action, a new category of risk is taking shape, one that traditional security models were not designed to address.
The report highlights a fundamental shift that once AI moves from advisory roles into execution, errors and exploits are no longer isolated events. They can trigger immediate, irreversible financial outcomes. In crypto markets, where transactions settle instantly, a compromised or misdirected agent can act faster than human intervention allows.
“AI is no longer just interpreting markets, it's participating,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “That changes the nature of risk entirely. The question is no longer how intelligent these systems are, but how safely they are allowed to operate.”
According to the research, agent-based systems introduce new attack surfaces across multiple layers, from model inputs to execution pathways. Prompt injection can influence decision-making, malicious plugins can alter behavior and over-permissioned APIs can expose capital to unintended actions. These risks are compounded by the always-on nature of autonomous agents, which operate continuously without direct user oversight.
Rather than treating these as isolated vulnerabilities, the report frames them as systemic. Security in the agentic era must extend beyond application-level safeguards into the architecture of how AI systems interact with capital.
Bitget’s approach reflects this shift. The platform separates intelligence, execution, and asset authorization into distinct layers, reducing the likelihood that any single point of failure can trigger unintended trades. Permissions are structured around least-privilege access, with transaction simulation and verification processes introduced before execution is finalized. These controls are designed to ensure that even as AI agents operate autonomously, their scope remains defined and constrained.
SlowMist’s analysis reinforces the need for a closed-loop security model, where risks are addressed before, during, and after execution. Continuous monitoring, bounded permissions, and verifiable transaction flows form the foundation of this framework, moving security from a reactive process to an embedded system design.
The findings point to a broader reality where AI agents become more integrated into trading, asset management, and on-chain activity; the boundary between user intent and system execution becomes increasingly abstract. In this environment, reliability is no longer determined solely by performance, but by how well systems can operate within controlled limits.
Within Bitget’s UEX model, where crypto assets, derivatives, and tokenized traditional instruments coexist, this shift carries wider implications. As financial activity becomes more automated and interconnected, infrastructure must be designed not only for speed and access, but for containment and resilience. The joint report serves as a reference point for platforms, developers, and users navigating this transition, highlighting that the next phase of financial innovation will depend as much on secure execution as it does on intelligent systems.
To read the full report, 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/beaca95e-3522-47e1-b389-7cbe4d911323
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 report highlights a fundamental shift that once AI moves from advisory roles into execution, errors and exploits are no longer isolated events. They can trigger immediate, irreversible financial outcomes. In crypto markets, where transactions settle instantly, a compromised or misdirected agent can act faster than human intervention allows.
“AI is no longer just interpreting markets, it's participating,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “That changes the nature of risk entirely. The question is no longer how intelligent these systems are, but how safely they are allowed to operate.”
According to the research, agent-based systems introduce new attack surfaces across multiple layers, from model inputs to execution pathways. Prompt injection can influence decision-making, malicious plugins can alter behavior and over-permissioned APIs can expose capital to unintended actions. These risks are compounded by the always-on nature of autonomous agents, which operate continuously without direct user oversight.
Rather than treating these as isolated vulnerabilities, the report frames them as systemic. Security in the agentic era must extend beyond application-level safeguards into the architecture of how AI systems interact with capital.
Bitget’s approach reflects this shift. The platform separates intelligence, execution, and asset authorization into distinct layers, reducing the likelihood that any single point of failure can trigger unintended trades. Permissions are structured around least-privilege access, with transaction simulation and verification processes introduced before execution is finalized. These controls are designed to ensure that even as AI agents operate autonomously, their scope remains defined and constrained.
SlowMist’s analysis reinforces the need for a closed-loop security model, where risks are addressed before, during, and after execution. Continuous monitoring, bounded permissions, and verifiable transaction flows form the foundation of this framework, moving security from a reactive process to an embedded system design.
The findings point to a broader reality where AI agents become more integrated into trading, asset management, and on-chain activity; the boundary between user intent and system execution becomes increasingly abstract. In this environment, reliability is no longer determined solely by performance, but by how well systems can operate within controlled limits.
Within Bitget’s UEX model, where crypto assets, derivatives, and tokenized traditional instruments coexist, this shift carries wider implications. As financial activity becomes more automated and interconnected, infrastructure must be designed not only for speed and access, but for containment and resilience. The joint report serves as a reference point for platforms, developers, and users navigating this transition, highlighting that the next phase of financial innovation will depend as much on secure execution as it does on intelligent systems.
To read the full report, 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/beaca95e-3522-47e1-b389-7cbe4d911323
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
Thursday, 19 March 2026
MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC SECURES MAJOR ORDER FOR TWO SUDIRMAN JAKARTA
KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has announced that two of its Indonesian subsidiaries have secured a major order to supply 66 elevators, 30 escalators, 404 air-conditioning units, and 38 hand dryers for Two Sudirman Jakarta.
The subsidiaries involved are PT Mitsubishi Jaya Elevator and Escalator, responsible for manufacturing, selling, installing, and servicing the elevators and escalators, and PT Mitsubishi Electric Indonesia, which handles the air-conditioning systems.
The high-quality equipment is expected to enhance the luxury and comfort of the complex, according to a statement.
Two Sudirman Jakarta is a huge mixed-use urban space scheduled to open in the heart of Jakarta at the end of 2028.
The order reflects Mitsubishi Electric’s strong reputation in Indonesia for delivering reliable elevators, escalators, and related services.
The proposal to supply Two Sudirman Jakarta with the air-conditioning units was supported by Mitsubishi Electric’s extensive product lineup and the close cooperation between its group companies.
By providing advanced and dependable solutions, Mitsubishi Electric aims to contribute to safer, more secure, and comfortable urban environments in Indonesia.
-- BERNAMA
The subsidiaries involved are PT Mitsubishi Jaya Elevator and Escalator, responsible for manufacturing, selling, installing, and servicing the elevators and escalators, and PT Mitsubishi Electric Indonesia, which handles the air-conditioning systems.
The high-quality equipment is expected to enhance the luxury and comfort of the complex, according to a statement.
Two Sudirman Jakarta is a huge mixed-use urban space scheduled to open in the heart of Jakarta at the end of 2028.
The order reflects Mitsubishi Electric’s strong reputation in Indonesia for delivering reliable elevators, escalators, and related services.
The proposal to supply Two Sudirman Jakarta with the air-conditioning units was supported by Mitsubishi Electric’s extensive product lineup and the close cooperation between its group companies.
By providing advanced and dependable solutions, Mitsubishi Electric aims to contribute to safer, more secure, and comfortable urban environments in Indonesia.
-- BERNAMA
ABAXX SINGAPORE JOINS SBMA, BOOSTS PHYSICAL GOLD TRADING
KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- Abaxx Technologies Inc (Abaxx), a financial software and market infrastructure company, announced its subsidiary, Abaxx Singapore Pte Ltd (Abaxx Singapore), has been accepted as a Local Associate Member of the Singapore Bullion Market Association (SBMA).
“Abaxx has anchored its integrated precious metals market infrastructure in Singapore to align with Asia’s physical trade.
“That approach is consistent with the direction SBMA has set for the next phase of market development, and we look forward to contributing to smarter precious metals markets,” said Abaxx Exchange Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Nancy Seah in a statement.
Meanwhile, SBMA CEO, Albert Cheng welcomed Abaxx Exchange, calling the newly launched Abaxx Gold Singapore futures contract a timely addition to Asia’s gold market infrastructure.
Cheng highlighted that the contract seeks to establish a Singapore-based, kilobar-native, physically deliverable benchmark, supported by modernised title and transfer mechanisms.
The SBMA is a non-profit, member-driven industry body that represents key participants across the precious metals value chain, underpinning Singapore’s position as a regional hub for physical gold trading and custody across the Asia-Pacific.
This membership highlights Abaxx’s increasing involvement in the physical gold market, coinciding with growing participation in the Abaxx Exchange’s kilobar futures contract, deliverable into Singapore.
Abaxx is leveraging its co-located spot and futures infrastructure to establish a direct access point for the kilobar market, enabling the next phase of market expansion as the region solidifies its role in global gold trading.
In a recent pilot, the company demonstrated the mobilisation of physical gold as collateral within existing market structures, enabling T+0 ownership transfer to support financing against vaulted inventory.
The transaction illustrates how Abaxx Digital Title can be applied to vaulted gold to address inefficiencies in a US$47 billion segment of gold trade finance, aligning with SBMA’s focus on deepening Singapore’s leadership in bullion services. (US$1=RM3.93)
-- BERNAMA
“Abaxx has anchored its integrated precious metals market infrastructure in Singapore to align with Asia’s physical trade.
“That approach is consistent with the direction SBMA has set for the next phase of market development, and we look forward to contributing to smarter precious metals markets,” said Abaxx Exchange Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Nancy Seah in a statement.
Meanwhile, SBMA CEO, Albert Cheng welcomed Abaxx Exchange, calling the newly launched Abaxx Gold Singapore futures contract a timely addition to Asia’s gold market infrastructure.
Cheng highlighted that the contract seeks to establish a Singapore-based, kilobar-native, physically deliverable benchmark, supported by modernised title and transfer mechanisms.
The SBMA is a non-profit, member-driven industry body that represents key participants across the precious metals value chain, underpinning Singapore’s position as a regional hub for physical gold trading and custody across the Asia-Pacific.
This membership highlights Abaxx’s increasing involvement in the physical gold market, coinciding with growing participation in the Abaxx Exchange’s kilobar futures contract, deliverable into Singapore.
Abaxx is leveraging its co-located spot and futures infrastructure to establish a direct access point for the kilobar market, enabling the next phase of market expansion as the region solidifies its role in global gold trading.
In a recent pilot, the company demonstrated the mobilisation of physical gold as collateral within existing market structures, enabling T+0 ownership transfer to support financing against vaulted inventory.
The transaction illustrates how Abaxx Digital Title can be applied to vaulted gold to address inefficiencies in a US$47 billion segment of gold trade finance, aligning with SBMA’s focus on deepening Singapore’s leadership in bullion services. (US$1=RM3.93)
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 18 March 2026
EDGECONNEX BREAKS GROUND ON AI-READY HYPERSCALE CAMPUS IN GREATER OSAKA
 |
| Sam Lee, Managing Director, Market & Commercial Development for EdgeConneX APAC performing the ground‑breaking ritual during the Shinto ceremony. |
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- EdgeConneX, a pioneer in global Build-to-Suit and Build-to-Density data centre solutions, has commenced development of its first 200-megawatt (MW), artificial intelligence (AI)-ready data centre campus in Greater Osaka.
The milestone project, in partnership with Kagoya Asset Management, reinforces the company's commitment to the Japanese market and aims to meet the region’s growing demand for secure, resilient, and advanced digital infrastructure.
“Breaking ground on our first data centre campus in Japan is a landmark moment for EdgeConneX and a significant step in our strategy to bring advanced, AI-ready infrastructure to this critical market.
“With a combined 350MW of capacity planned for the Greater Osaka region, we are well-positioned to support the next wave of cloud and AI adoption, helping to establish Osaka as a top destination for cutting-edge IT infrastructure,” said EdgeConneX Managing Director, Market & Commercial Development APAC, Sam Lee.
Meanwhile, Kyotanabe City Mayor, Takashi Kamimura welcomed the project, expressing confidence that the facility will contribute to the regional economy and support sustainable community development.
According to EdgeConneX in a statement, the new hyperscale campus will span 130,000 square metres, with a 200MW power capacity, and is located approximately 30 kilometres from Osaka’s central business district.
The first phase is expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2028, following the company’s January 2025 market entry and local team expansion.
Designed for high-density AI workloads, the Osaka campus will feature a liquid-cooling-capable architecture offering flexibility, modularity, and mission-critical resilience. The facility will fully comply with Japan’s stringent building and seismic codes to ensure operational reliability.
-- BERNAMA
Bitget Invites Affiliates to Split "The Missing 40%" Revenue Plus $1 Million USDT Prize Pool
VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), is inviting traders and content creators to claim their share of revenue that most exchanges keep to themselves. The Missing 40% campaign launches today with a $1 million USDT prize pool, built around a single premise: guaranteed 40% of the fees generated by an affiliate's community go back to the affiliate.
The program paid out more than $20M in commissions to over 300k registered affiliates globally, with $600+B in trading volume attributed to affiliate-referred users in the past 30 days. The Missing 40% campaign is designed to bring in the next wave of creators, community managers, and active traders who have yet to claim the revenue they are already generating for someone else.
The split is straightforward. Once a referred user reaches $10,000 in trading volume within their first 30 days, the affiliate earns a 40% commission on every trade that user places for life. At 40% from day one, it is the highest starting rebate in the industry. For retail traders who do not run a public community, Bitget also offers a self-affiliate option — a way to reclaim 40% of their own trading fees without needing an audience at all.
Affiliates manage their share through a personalized dashboard with monthly analytics reports covering conversions, commissions earned, and user behavior insights — giving a clear, ongoing picture of how referred activity translates into income.
Application process is designed to be fast. Applicants need either 100 social media followers or 500 community members to qualify, with a 24-hour review turnaround. Bitget structured the entry requirements this way deliberately. Most competing programs set thresholds that shut out smaller creators before they have a chance to grow, leaving real revenue on the table for both sides.
"Content creators and community builders put real work into growing their audiences, and that work directly drives trading activity on our platform. The least we can do is make sure they see a meaningful return to it. The Missing 40% campaign is our way of saying we take that partnership seriously, a permanent 40% split from day one, lifetime earnings on every referred user, and no hoops to jump through to get there," said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.
The $1 million USDT prize pool supports campaign rewards, activation bonuses, and milestone incentives throughout the program. Affiliates who submit their application during the campaign period will receive a 600 USDT futures experience voucher package upon approval. The launch follows Bitget's Boost Month initiative in November 2025, which drove meaningful growth in affiliate sign-ups and community engagement across the platform.
Full program details and applications are available 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/ac0f94f2-4c1a-4deb-8b25-0efa57544a1b
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.
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
--BERNAMA
The program paid out more than $20M in commissions to over 300k registered affiliates globally, with $600+B in trading volume attributed to affiliate-referred users in the past 30 days. The Missing 40% campaign is designed to bring in the next wave of creators, community managers, and active traders who have yet to claim the revenue they are already generating for someone else.
The split is straightforward. Once a referred user reaches $10,000 in trading volume within their first 30 days, the affiliate earns a 40% commission on every trade that user places for life. At 40% from day one, it is the highest starting rebate in the industry. For retail traders who do not run a public community, Bitget also offers a self-affiliate option — a way to reclaim 40% of their own trading fees without needing an audience at all.
Affiliates manage their share through a personalized dashboard with monthly analytics reports covering conversions, commissions earned, and user behavior insights — giving a clear, ongoing picture of how referred activity translates into income.
Application process is designed to be fast. Applicants need either 100 social media followers or 500 community members to qualify, with a 24-hour review turnaround. Bitget structured the entry requirements this way deliberately. Most competing programs set thresholds that shut out smaller creators before they have a chance to grow, leaving real revenue on the table for both sides.
"Content creators and community builders put real work into growing their audiences, and that work directly drives trading activity on our platform. The least we can do is make sure they see a meaningful return to it. The Missing 40% campaign is our way of saying we take that partnership seriously, a permanent 40% split from day one, lifetime earnings on every referred user, and no hoops to jump through to get there," said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.
The $1 million USDT prize pool supports campaign rewards, activation bonuses, and milestone incentives throughout the program. Affiliates who submit their application during the campaign period will receive a 600 USDT futures experience voucher package upon approval. The launch follows Bitget's Boost Month initiative in November 2025, which drove meaningful growth in affiliate sign-ups and community engagement across the platform.
Full program details and applications are available 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/ac0f94f2-4c1a-4deb-8b25-0efa57544a1b
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.
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
--BERNAMA
AM BEST ASSIGNS RATINGS TO STRONGHOLD INSURANCE IN PHILIPPINES
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has assigned a financial strength rating of B (Fair), a long-term issuer credit rating of “bb” (Fair) and a Philippines National Scale Rating of a.PH (Excellent) to Stronghold Insurance Company Inc (Stronghold).
In a statement, AM Best said the outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings reflect Stronghold’s strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, limited business profile and marginal enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, is expected to remain at least strong over the medium term. Stronghold’s investment portfolio is low-to-moderate risk, with the majority allocated to cash, deposits, and Philippine government bonds, supported by a reinsurance programme of generally good credit quality.
Operating performance remains adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 5.7 per cent (fiscal years 2020 to 2024). The company has shown marginal improvement in combined ratios, supported by steady business growth and generally benign loss experience.
In addition, investment income, primarily from interest and rental returns, remains stable and contributes positively to overall earnings, with 2025 operating results staying in positive territory due to consistent underwriting and investment performance.
Stronghold is among the top 10 non-life insurers in the Philippines, with approximately four per cent market share. Key business lines include fire, surety and motor insurance, with premium growth driven in part by large fire policies.
AM Best notes that certain risk exposures, particularly to natural catastrophes such as typhoons and floods, exceed current risk management capabilities, though improvements are expected over time.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, AM Best said the outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings reflect Stronghold’s strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, limited business profile and marginal enterprise risk management.
The company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, is expected to remain at least strong over the medium term. Stronghold’s investment portfolio is low-to-moderate risk, with the majority allocated to cash, deposits, and Philippine government bonds, supported by a reinsurance programme of generally good credit quality.
Operating performance remains adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 5.7 per cent (fiscal years 2020 to 2024). The company has shown marginal improvement in combined ratios, supported by steady business growth and generally benign loss experience.
In addition, investment income, primarily from interest and rental returns, remains stable and contributes positively to overall earnings, with 2025 operating results staying in positive territory due to consistent underwriting and investment performance.
Stronghold is among the top 10 non-life insurers in the Philippines, with approximately four per cent market share. Key business lines include fire, surety and motor insurance, with premium growth driven in part by large fire policies.
AM Best notes that certain risk exposures, particularly to natural catastrophes such as typhoons and floods, exceed current risk management capabilities, though improvements are expected over time.
-- BERNAMA
OXFORD NANOPORE PARTNERS A.D.A.M. INNOVATIONS TO ADVANCE GENOMIC SEQUENCING IN JAPAN
 |
| From left to right: Dr. Iri Sato Baran, Genesis Healthcare (A.D.A.M Innovations), Vice Chair of the Board Ambassador Julia Longbottom, British Embassy Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Michel Mommejat, Genesis Healthcare (A.D.A.M Innovations), CEO and Executive Director Gretchen Weightman, Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Senior Vice President Commercial and General Manager APAC, Dr. Toshiharu Furukawa, LDP, Chair of Medical Information Policy and Genomic Medicine, House of Councillors, Hirokazu Shimoda, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, Senior Director |
KUALA LUMPUR, March 18 (Bernama) -- Oxford Nanopore Technologies and A.D.A.M. Innovations (Japanese corporate name Genesis Healthcare Co) announced an international collaboration to accelerate advanced genomic sequencing and medicine applications in Japan.
The partnership aims to develop and deploy comprehensive nanopore sequencing technology across the Japanese genetic testing market, according to Oxford Nanopore in a statement.
Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Vice President Commercial and General Manager APAC, Gretchen Weightman commented that the joint force will help bring rapid, scalable sequencing directly into clinical pathways and strengthen scientific ties between the United Kingdom (UK) and Japan.
Meanwhile, A.D.A.M. Innovations President, Michel Mommejat noted that Oxford Nanopore’s innovative platform opens new possibilities for clinical genomics in Japan and is intended to enhance diagnostic capability and advance the nation’s genomic precision medicine.
The initial phase will establish Oxford Nanopore’s information-rich, real-time sequencing technology within A.D.A.M. Innovations’ advanced genetic testing portfolio. This integration is expected to enable rapid and precise genomic testing across multiple disease areas.
The long-term goal is to introduce new clinical workflows validated under Japan-specific standards, supporting scalable sequencing of DNA fragments of any length. Sequencing that captures complete genomic information is poised to expand testing accuracy beyond existing technologies.
A memorandum of understanding was signed at the British Embassy in Tokyo, in an event supported by His Majesty’s Ambassador to Japan, Julia Longbottom.
The initiative aligns with the UK-Japan Health Memorandum of Cooperation and reflects a broader increase in bilateral life sciences collaboration, strengthening industrial cooperation and accelerating translational research for patient benefit.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 16 March 2026
AM BEST AFFIRMS KBFG CHINA CREDIT RATINGS
KUALA LUMPUR, March 16 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) of KBFG Insurance (China) Co Ltd (KBFG China) with a stable outlook.
In a statement, AM Best said these credit ratings (ratings) reflect KBFG China’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
The ratings also factor in broad support from its parent company, KB Insurance Co Ltd, including underwriting and pricing, business development, reinsurance and risk management.
KBFG China’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio. The company’s consolidated capital and surplus have increased, backed by positive operating performance with full profit retention.
The company’s statutory core solvency ratio rose to 671 per cent at end-2025, from 501 per cent in 2024, following the settlement of sizeable reinsurance recoverables.
KBFG China has reported operating profits for the past five years (2021 to 2025), though its top-line performance declined for a third consecutive year in 2025 due to reduced client exposures and rate reductions amid favourable loss experience.
Nevertheless, underwriting profitability has remained stable, supported by low acquisition costs and positive reinsurance commission income.
As a foreign-owned insurer focused on serving Korean businesses overseas, KBFG China maintains a niche competitive position, although its share of China’s non-life insurance market remains below one per cent.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 11 March 2026
PERSONA AI APPOINTS MICHAEL PERRY AS HEAD OF COMMERCIAL STRATEGY
KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- Persona AI, a pioneering robotics company, has appointed Michael Perry as Head of Commercial Strategy, signalling the company’s shift toward commercial deployment as it builds infrastructure to bring humanoid automation to markets such as shipyards, steel mills, and construction sites globally.
“We are building Persona to solve real problems in some of the hardest industrial environments. Now we need someone who has taken robots from the lab to the factory floor and built the commercial engine to sustain it,” said its Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Nicolaus Radford.
In his new role, Perry will focus on building Persona AI’s commercial framework, engaging strategic partners, enabling early adopters and scaling customer engagements, including working with clients to deploy their first humanoids focused on heavy industrial tasks.
Perry’s appointment comes on the heels of Persona’s agreements with HD Hyundai and POSCO Group to advance humanoid automation in shipyards and steel manufacturing, as well as a pilot programme with the state of Louisiana targeting active heavy-industry environments.
A seasoned robotics and automation executive, Perry has a distinguished track record in driving commercial growth, strategic partnerships, and market expansion for advanced robotics technologies.
Persona AI in a statement said Perry’s experience across DJI, Boston Dynamics, and Dexterity AI has focused on scaling promising robotic and physical AI technology with enterprise customers.
Operating across Houston and Pensacola, Persona AI is backed by leading investors in robotics and industrial technology. The company develops humanoid robots designed to use standard industrial tools such as welding torches, grinders and power tools in human-scale environments.
Persona AI will exhibit at NVIDIA GTC 2026 from March 16 to 19 in San Jose, California, where attendees can meet the team and learn more about the company’s approach to industrial humanoid deployment.
In addition, Radford will appear as a speaker at SXSW 2026 in Austin, Texas, sharing insights on the rise of humanoid robotics, physical AI and the future of automation in real-world industrial environments.
-- BERNAMA
“We are building Persona to solve real problems in some of the hardest industrial environments. Now we need someone who has taken robots from the lab to the factory floor and built the commercial engine to sustain it,” said its Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Nicolaus Radford.
In his new role, Perry will focus on building Persona AI’s commercial framework, engaging strategic partners, enabling early adopters and scaling customer engagements, including working with clients to deploy their first humanoids focused on heavy industrial tasks.
Perry’s appointment comes on the heels of Persona’s agreements with HD Hyundai and POSCO Group to advance humanoid automation in shipyards and steel manufacturing, as well as a pilot programme with the state of Louisiana targeting active heavy-industry environments.
A seasoned robotics and automation executive, Perry has a distinguished track record in driving commercial growth, strategic partnerships, and market expansion for advanced robotics technologies.
Persona AI in a statement said Perry’s experience across DJI, Boston Dynamics, and Dexterity AI has focused on scaling promising robotic and physical AI technology with enterprise customers.
Operating across Houston and Pensacola, Persona AI is backed by leading investors in robotics and industrial technology. The company develops humanoid robots designed to use standard industrial tools such as welding torches, grinders and power tools in human-scale environments.
Persona AI will exhibit at NVIDIA GTC 2026 from March 16 to 19 in San Jose, California, where attendees can meet the team and learn more about the company’s approach to industrial humanoid deployment.
In addition, Radford will appear as a speaker at SXSW 2026 in Austin, Texas, sharing insights on the rise of humanoid robotics, physical AI and the future of automation in real-world industrial environments.
-- BERNAMA
EXPEREO NAMES KEVIN BROWN AS COO TO DRIVE GLOBAL OPERATIONS
KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- Expereo, a leading global Managed Network as a Service (NaaS) provider, has appointed Kevin Brown as Chief Operating Officer (COO), reinforcing its focus on operational integration, efficiency, and scaling customer and supplier-facing functions worldwide.
In a statement, Expereo Chief Executive Officer, Ben Elms said that Brown’s appointment provides a single point of executive ownership, enabling faster decision-making, clearer operational integration, and stronger execution, marking a key milestone in the company’s next phase of growth.
Meanwhile, Brown said: “I am joining Expereo because it sits at the centre of one of today’s most critical business needs – secure, resilient global connectivity.
“I look forward to driving operational excellence, accelerating transformation, and strengthening the customer experience.”
Brown will oversee operational strategy, transformation delivery, and performance across all customer and supplier-facing functions, working closely with Expereo’s Digital Office to advance its digital transformation.
He brings extensive global leadership experience across telecom, cybersecurity, and Software as a Service (SaaS), most recently serving as NCC Group Global COO, where he built and scaled operating models to drive customer experience, efficiency, and growth.
Previously, Brown led BT’s cybersecurity business, establishing a strong track record of transforming operations into engines of value creation at scale.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, Expereo Chief Executive Officer, Ben Elms said that Brown’s appointment provides a single point of executive ownership, enabling faster decision-making, clearer operational integration, and stronger execution, marking a key milestone in the company’s next phase of growth.
Meanwhile, Brown said: “I am joining Expereo because it sits at the centre of one of today’s most critical business needs – secure, resilient global connectivity.
“I look forward to driving operational excellence, accelerating transformation, and strengthening the customer experience.”
Brown will oversee operational strategy, transformation delivery, and performance across all customer and supplier-facing functions, working closely with Expereo’s Digital Office to advance its digital transformation.
He brings extensive global leadership experience across telecom, cybersecurity, and Software as a Service (SaaS), most recently serving as NCC Group Global COO, where he built and scaled operating models to drive customer experience, efficiency, and growth.
Previously, Brown led BT’s cybersecurity business, establishing a strong track record of transforming operations into engines of value creation at scale.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 10 March 2026
HORIZON QUANTUM UNVEILS ANTICIPATED BOARD MEMBERS, CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER
KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- Horizon Quantum Holdings Ltd (Horizon Quantum) has announced expected new members of its board of directors and a key addition to its leadership team.
Following the completion of Horizon Quantum’s merger with dMY Squared Technology Group Inc (dMY), the company expects to appoint Danielle Lambert, formerly of Apple Inc; Peter Oey of Grab Holdings Ltd; Jill Turner of Broadcom Inc; and Harry You, Chairman of dMY, to its board of directors.
Meanwhile, Horizon Quantum will also strengthen its leadership team by adding Catherine Fitzsimons, currently of Fidelity International Ltd, as the company’s Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and company secretary.
“Bringing world-class appointments to our board and leadership team strengthens the company and enhances our ability to achieve our mission of unlocking the full potential of quantum computers,” said Horizon Quantum Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Dr Joe Fitzsimons in a statement.
Previously Apple Vice President of Human Resources, Lambert helped build teams behind several Apple products and played a pivotal role in the founding of Nest Labs Inc, while Oey is Grab Chief Financial Officer and previously held several finance leadership roles at Activision Blizzard Inc.
Turner has more than 20 years of experience in global human resources leadership roles at Fortune 500 technology companies, while You is an experienced public company officer who has held Chief Financial Officer roles at Accenture plc and Oracle Corporation.
Separately, Fitzsimons will join the company in May. At Fidelity, she is currently the Director of Strategic Initiatives and previously served as Head of Global Product Legal.
Horizon Quantum’s mission is to unlock broad quantum advantage by building software infrastructure that enables developers to use quantum computing to solve complex computational problems.
-- BERNAMA
Following the completion of Horizon Quantum’s merger with dMY Squared Technology Group Inc (dMY), the company expects to appoint Danielle Lambert, formerly of Apple Inc; Peter Oey of Grab Holdings Ltd; Jill Turner of Broadcom Inc; and Harry You, Chairman of dMY, to its board of directors.
Meanwhile, Horizon Quantum will also strengthen its leadership team by adding Catherine Fitzsimons, currently of Fidelity International Ltd, as the company’s Chief Legal and Compliance Officer, Executive Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and company secretary.
“Bringing world-class appointments to our board and leadership team strengthens the company and enhances our ability to achieve our mission of unlocking the full potential of quantum computers,” said Horizon Quantum Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Dr Joe Fitzsimons in a statement.
Previously Apple Vice President of Human Resources, Lambert helped build teams behind several Apple products and played a pivotal role in the founding of Nest Labs Inc, while Oey is Grab Chief Financial Officer and previously held several finance leadership roles at Activision Blizzard Inc.
Turner has more than 20 years of experience in global human resources leadership roles at Fortune 500 technology companies, while You is an experienced public company officer who has held Chief Financial Officer roles at Accenture plc and Oracle Corporation.
Separately, Fitzsimons will join the company in May. At Fidelity, she is currently the Director of Strategic Initiatives and previously served as Head of Global Product Legal.
Horizon Quantum’s mission is to unlock broad quantum advantage by building software infrastructure that enables developers to use quantum computing to solve complex computational problems.
-- BERNAMA
InterSystems Appoints Former NHS and Mass General Leader Dr. Tim Ferris as Vice President, Healthcare Practice
LAS VEGAS, March 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- InterSystems, a creative data technology provider powering more than one billion health records globally, today announced the appointment of Tim Ferris, M.D., as Vice President, Healthcare Practice. The announcement comes as healthcare leaders gather for the 2026 HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition.
In this role, Dr. Ferris will leverage his comprehensive view of the industry to help drive the clinical and strategic direction of the company’s healthcare solutions worldwide. Drawing on his vast experience, he will serve as a strategic advisor to global health systems and governments, engineer targeted technology solutions based on real-world executive needs, advance his academic research on health data architecture and lead public discourse on the intersection of AI and care delivery.
Dr. Ferris brings a unique global perspective to InterSystems that is virtually unmatched in healthcare. His career spans 30 years as a practicing primary care physician, executive leadership at prestigious U.S. health systems, macro-level technology governance for the U.K. government and incubating AI health-tech startups.
“Very few leaders in the world have viewed healthcare from as many critical vantage points as Dr. Ferris,” said Don Woodlock, President of InterSystems. “Tim has treated patients as a frontline physician, overseen thousands of physicians at one of the most respected hospital systems in the world, directed national health policy in the U.K. and incubated cutting-edge AI startups. These experiences make him the perfect leader to help architect technology solutions that truly work for every stakeholder in the healthcare ecosystem.”
Most recently, Dr. Ferris served as president of healthcare at Red Cell Partners, a technology incubator and investment firm. Prior to that, as the national director of transformation at England’s National Health Service (NHS), he managed a $2.5 billion budget and led a massive acceleration of frontline digitization. His tenure included expanding the NHS App to serve more than 40 million citizens, migrating national data services to the cloud and facilitating groundbreaking data agreements with leading global tech and biotech companies.
Before his transformative work with the NHS, Dr. Ferris served as CEO and chair of the Massachusetts General Physicians Organization and senior vice president for population health at Mass General Brigham. In those roles, he oversaw 3,000 physicians and led an accountable care organization that achieved top national performance on quality metrics while generating over $1 billion in cumulative cost savings for taxpayers.
A recognized leader in health IT and a Harvard-trained physician, Dr. Ferris became a professor of medicine at Harvard University in 2018. He has authored more than 120 publications on quality measurement, health information technology and population health, and currently serves in an advisory role for Stanford University.
About InterSystems
InterSystems, a creative data technology provider, delivers a unified foundation for next-generation applications for healthcare, finance, manufacturing and supply chain customers in more than 80 countries. Our data platforms solve interoperability, speed, and scalability problems for large organizations around the globe to unlock the power of data and allow people to perceive data in imaginative ways. Established in 1978, InterSystems is committed to excellence through its 24×7 support for customers and partners around the world. Privately held and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, InterSystems has 38 offices in 28 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit InterSystems.com.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260309639979/en/
Contact
InterSystems PR Contact:
Zach Keating
pr@intersystems.com
617-551-5158
Source : InterSystems
In this role, Dr. Ferris will leverage his comprehensive view of the industry to help drive the clinical and strategic direction of the company’s healthcare solutions worldwide. Drawing on his vast experience, he will serve as a strategic advisor to global health systems and governments, engineer targeted technology solutions based on real-world executive needs, advance his academic research on health data architecture and lead public discourse on the intersection of AI and care delivery.
Dr. Ferris brings a unique global perspective to InterSystems that is virtually unmatched in healthcare. His career spans 30 years as a practicing primary care physician, executive leadership at prestigious U.S. health systems, macro-level technology governance for the U.K. government and incubating AI health-tech startups.
“Very few leaders in the world have viewed healthcare from as many critical vantage points as Dr. Ferris,” said Don Woodlock, President of InterSystems. “Tim has treated patients as a frontline physician, overseen thousands of physicians at one of the most respected hospital systems in the world, directed national health policy in the U.K. and incubated cutting-edge AI startups. These experiences make him the perfect leader to help architect technology solutions that truly work for every stakeholder in the healthcare ecosystem.”
Most recently, Dr. Ferris served as president of healthcare at Red Cell Partners, a technology incubator and investment firm. Prior to that, as the national director of transformation at England’s National Health Service (NHS), he managed a $2.5 billion budget and led a massive acceleration of frontline digitization. His tenure included expanding the NHS App to serve more than 40 million citizens, migrating national data services to the cloud and facilitating groundbreaking data agreements with leading global tech and biotech companies.
Before his transformative work with the NHS, Dr. Ferris served as CEO and chair of the Massachusetts General Physicians Organization and senior vice president for population health at Mass General Brigham. In those roles, he oversaw 3,000 physicians and led an accountable care organization that achieved top national performance on quality metrics while generating over $1 billion in cumulative cost savings for taxpayers.
A recognized leader in health IT and a Harvard-trained physician, Dr. Ferris became a professor of medicine at Harvard University in 2018. He has authored more than 120 publications on quality measurement, health information technology and population health, and currently serves in an advisory role for Stanford University.
About InterSystems
InterSystems, a creative data technology provider, delivers a unified foundation for next-generation applications for healthcare, finance, manufacturing and supply chain customers in more than 80 countries. Our data platforms solve interoperability, speed, and scalability problems for large organizations around the globe to unlock the power of data and allow people to perceive data in imaginative ways. Established in 1978, InterSystems is committed to excellence through its 24×7 support for customers and partners around the world. Privately held and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, InterSystems has 38 offices in 28 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit InterSystems.com.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260309639979/en/
Contact
InterSystems PR Contact:
Zach Keating
pr@intersystems.com
617-551-5158
Source : InterSystems
Monday, 9 March 2026
Dmitry Shubov Attends AI Tech & Startup Night — Dubai: Live Pitches, Investor Networking, and Action-Driven Deal Discovery
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 6 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AI Tech & Startup Night in Dubai brought together the founders, investors and builders of the region's AI and tech ecosystem for live pitches, curated investor networking, and deal discovery meetings․ Early-stage AI and tech founders delivered actionable short pitches while opportunity-matched investor-only events held with curated access to pitch decks and targeted networking sessions helped participants identify warm introductions and real opportunities for follow-up․
Highlights of the event include:
Highlights of the event include:
- Live startup pitches: Startup founders in early-stage AI and tech pitched their ideas, business models, and go-to-market strategies in a short format․
- Investor networking: Accredited investors, deal scouts, and founders were connected with others where they reviewed selected pitch materials and scheduled follow-up conversations․
- Deal-flow discovery: In attendance, members began the due diligence process and offered warm introductions to possible investments and partnerships․
Additionally, there were panels, breakout sessions, and investor Q&As around topics like AI product-market fit, data privacy and compliance for AI startups, fundraising, and regional growth/market expansion plays․ This helped to accelerate the early diligence process by pairing capital with technical talent.
"It was great to see the continued momentum in AI and startups in the region, and I'm looking forward to seeing which teams next attract investment in this space," says Dmitry Shubov, Founder of Dmitry Shubov Consulting
Dmitry Shubov, Founder of Dmitry Shubov Consulting, attended the event to meet with founders and investors in the regions to review pitch decks. Dmitry Shubov Consulting is a legal tech startup consulting firm that helps connect accredited investors with innovative creators and entrepreneurs with high growth potential. Dmitry Shubov looks forward to following up with promising teams and facilitating introductions that advance cross-border growth and investment opportunities.
About Dmitry Shubov Consulting
At Dmitry Shubov Consulting, our mission is to connect accredited investors with groundbreaking legal technology startups, fostering innovation and growth across Southeast Asia and helping Asian businesses enter the U.S. market. For more information, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Media Contact:
Support@dmitryshubovconsulting.com
SOURCE: Dmitry Shubov Consulting
--BERNAMA
"It was great to see the continued momentum in AI and startups in the region, and I'm looking forward to seeing which teams next attract investment in this space," says Dmitry Shubov, Founder of Dmitry Shubov Consulting
Dmitry Shubov, Founder of Dmitry Shubov Consulting, attended the event to meet with founders and investors in the regions to review pitch decks. Dmitry Shubov Consulting is a legal tech startup consulting firm that helps connect accredited investors with innovative creators and entrepreneurs with high growth potential. Dmitry Shubov looks forward to following up with promising teams and facilitating introductions that advance cross-border growth and investment opportunities.
About Dmitry Shubov Consulting
At Dmitry Shubov Consulting, our mission is to connect accredited investors with groundbreaking legal technology startups, fostering innovation and growth across Southeast Asia and helping Asian businesses enter the U.S. market. For more information, please visit our website or contact us directly.
Media Contact:
Support@dmitryshubovconsulting.com
SOURCE: Dmitry Shubov Consulting
--BERNAMA
Friday, 6 March 2026
CGTN: JIANGSU PLAYS KEY ROLE IN STABILISING CHINA’S ECONOMY
KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 (Bernama) -- Economically strong provinces must maintain solid foundations and strong resilience against external shocks to help stabilise the overall national economy, as emphasised by Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to China Global Television Network (CGTN).
While taking part in a deliberation with his fellow deputies from the delegation of Jiangsu Province at the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress, Xi called on the province to further strengthen its economic resilience, noting that Jiangsu’s economic performance reflects both scale and quality.
In a statement, CGTN reported that Jiangsu has maintained strong momentum with manufacturing as a central pillar.
The province’s manufacturing high-quality development index has ranked first nationwide for five consecutive years, reflecting strong industrial capability and innovation. From advanced equipment and integrated circuits to new energy and biomedicine, Jiangsu’s industrial ecosystem has enabled the province to remain competitive amid global supply chain adjustments.
Domestic demand has also shown strong vitality. A provincial football league has attracted more than 2.43 million spectators in 2025, demonstrating how sports, culture and tourism can stimulate consumption and unlock the potential of the domestic market.
President Xi also stressed that Chinese modernisation is defined by common prosperity for all, highlighting the importance of policies aimed at improving livelihoods.
Among the priorities is employment, with the government expanding work-for-relief programmes to support those facing difficulties in securing jobs. Flexible workers and those in emerging forms of employment will also gain broader access to social security programmes.
China will also implement an income growth plan for urban and rural residents aimed at increasing earnings for lower-income groups, expanding property income channels, and improving remuneration and social security systems.
Meanwhile, the draft government work report outlines measures to strengthen public services and social protection, including raising minimum basic old-age benefits for rural and non-working urban residents, introducing elderly care service vouchers, expanding maternity insurance coverage, and accelerating the development of childcare services.
-- BERNAMA
While taking part in a deliberation with his fellow deputies from the delegation of Jiangsu Province at the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress, Xi called on the province to further strengthen its economic resilience, noting that Jiangsu’s economic performance reflects both scale and quality.
In a statement, CGTN reported that Jiangsu has maintained strong momentum with manufacturing as a central pillar.
The province’s manufacturing high-quality development index has ranked first nationwide for five consecutive years, reflecting strong industrial capability and innovation. From advanced equipment and integrated circuits to new energy and biomedicine, Jiangsu’s industrial ecosystem has enabled the province to remain competitive amid global supply chain adjustments.
Domestic demand has also shown strong vitality. A provincial football league has attracted more than 2.43 million spectators in 2025, demonstrating how sports, culture and tourism can stimulate consumption and unlock the potential of the domestic market.
President Xi also stressed that Chinese modernisation is defined by common prosperity for all, highlighting the importance of policies aimed at improving livelihoods.
Among the priorities is employment, with the government expanding work-for-relief programmes to support those facing difficulties in securing jobs. Flexible workers and those in emerging forms of employment will also gain broader access to social security programmes.
China will also implement an income growth plan for urban and rural residents aimed at increasing earnings for lower-income groups, expanding property income channels, and improving remuneration and social security systems.
Meanwhile, the draft government work report outlines measures to strengthen public services and social protection, including raising minimum basic old-age benefits for rural and non-working urban residents, introducing elderly care service vouchers, expanding maternity insurance coverage, and accelerating the development of childcare services.
-- BERNAMA
Eight Sleep Reaches $1.5B Valuation, Accelerates Predictive AI for Health
 |
| Eight Sleep Reaches $1.5B Valuation, Accelerates Predictive AI for Health |
Capital fuels the company's shift from sleep optimization to predictive AI health platform
NEW YORK, March 6 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Eight Sleep, the leading sleep technology company, today announced a new strategic round led by Tether Investments, valuing the company at $1.5 billion. The investment will fund Eight Sleep’s expansion from sleep optimization into predictive, AI-driven health — building a system that anticipates disruptions to recovery and intervenes before they occur.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260304029870/en/
The round follows a milestone year. In 2025, Eight Sleep achieved free cash flow positivity while launching three new products — Pod 5, Pod Pillow Cover, and Thermal Blanket — expanding globally to 34 countries, and conducting the most rigorous clinical validation in the company's history. Two peer-reviewed studies show the Pod reduces menopausal hot flashes by 56% and, for the first time in any consumer device, restores the body's natural circadian temperature rhythm during sleep, improving cardiovascular recovery markers.
With Eight Sleep's advancements over the last year, the Company is shifting its focus from sleep optimization to AI-driven preventative health. Eight Sleep is applying predictive intelligence directly to the human body, transforming the bedroom into an intelligent health platform that creates the optimal conditions for recovery before any disruption occurs.
From reactive to predictive: the AI agent
Eight Sleep's Pod tracks biometrics — sleep stages, heart rate, HRV — and automatically adjusts temperature and elevation to improve sleep. Until now, the system has been reactive: reading signals during the night and making real-time adjustments that have been clinically proven to deliver better sleep.
The company is now building a predictive AI agent that anticipates how a user's night will unfold and acts before disruption occurs. The system simulates thousands of scenarios — a warm room, late exercise, a large meal, elevated stress — and optimizes the sleep environment before the user gets into bed.
Eight Sleep’s models are trained on more than one billion hours of real-world sleep data from users in 35+ countries — a proprietary dataset unmatched in scale, diversity, and fidelity. Early pilots of daytime AI-driven guidance have already driven measurable behavior change: nearly half of participants adjusted activity timing, caffeine intake, or sleep schedules based on automated insights.
Expanding into regulated health
Eight Sleep is advancing clinical and regulatory work in the United States, including FDA filings for sleep apnea detection and mitigation. FDA clearance would transform the Pod from a wellness product into a regulated health platform capable of screening, detecting, and intervening at population scale, passively, every night.
"Sleep was just the beginning,” said Matteo Franceschetti, Co-founder and CEO of Eight Sleep. “We've built the most advanced AI-powered health sensing system in the world — one that learns your body better every night and acts on that knowledge. This investment gives us the resources to take that intelligence beyond the bedroom and into every dimension of personal health. What we're building doesn't exist yet — a system that understands your body better each night and acts on that knowledge. Our goal is to build the defining health technology company of this generation."
“We believe advanced personalized AI is the perfect pathway to understand and expand human potential,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “Eight Sleep has the potential to define the future of health tech by building intelligence that learns, scales, and evolves directly with humankind, turning advanced AI into practical, everyday insights and enhancements about core human biology. By helping people better understand sleep, recovery, and long-term health, Eight Sleep is laying the groundwork for a new standard in longevity-focused technology that is truly personalized, can function in any condition, directly on-device, resilient, and aligned with how people live. The age of human-first health intelligence has started.”
Investment priorities
The capital will be deployed across three areas: scaling R&D to accelerate predictive model development; expanding clinical trials and regulatory pathways; and deepening global commercial partnerships in priority markets.
About Eight Sleep
Eight Sleep is the first company to bring sleep fitness to the world by combining technology, physiology, and data to unlock deeper sleep and better health. Its products are trusted by professional athletes, including F1 driver Charles Leclerc and top American tennis player Taylor Fritz, business leaders, and health-conscious consumers across the globe. Recognized as one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies in 2019, 2022, and 2023, and twice named to TIME's “Best Inventions of the Year,” Eight Sleep continues to redefine the future of sleep. Its products are available in over 34 countries at eightsleep.com.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260304029870/en/
Contact
eightsleep@aiir.agency
Source : Eight Sleep
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
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