OTC GLOBAL HOLDINGS KICKS OFF 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH EXPANSION INTO ASIA PACIFIC

OTC Asia office in Singapore to offer European and Asian crude swaps, distillate swaps and cracks, and physical fuel broking; completes leading independent commodities interdealer broker’s global service model

 
SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- OTC Global Holdings (OTCGH) today announced the formation of OTC Asia in Singapore. The new office and expansion into the Asia Pacific region marks a significant milestone for the leading independent commodities interdealer broker, which is celebrating its 10^th anniversary in 2017, as it completes the company’s global service model. Through OTCGH’s Aalpha Energy desk, which serves every major global crude swaps market via offices in Houston, London, New York and now Singapore, clients can speak with a live broker at any time during the global workday.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28362

NASDAQ CORPORATE SOLUTIONS AND EUROLAND IR PARTNER TO PROVIDE ENHANCED FEATURES FOR INVESTOR RELATIONS WEBSITES

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Jan 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nasdaq Corporate Solutions announces its partnership with Euroland IR to offer investor relations (IR) professionals worldwide with enhanced features for their IR websites. The partnership was formalized in December 2016 and brings comprehensive stock quotes, interactive charting and other IR website modules to thousands of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients across EMEA, Asia and the Americas. This upgrade for clients is already underway and follows the release of Nasdaq’s next generation IR website platform powered by Drupal 8 open source technology.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28366

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF FIDELITY LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Fidelity Life Assurance Company Limited (Fidelity Life) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect Fidelity Life’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and favorable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28361

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF FMG INSURANCE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of FMG Insurance Limited (FMGIL) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) remains stable.

The ratings reflect FMGIL’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, consistently positive operating performance and well-established profile in the rural sector of New Zealand’s general insurance market. The ratings also reflect FMGIL’s low underwriting leverage, high-quality investment portfolio and direct distribution network capability. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28353

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF MEIJI YASUDA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company (Meiji Yasuda) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The rating affirmations reflect Meiji Yasuda’s strong capitalization, strong business profile and stable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28354

PUBMATIC ANNOUNCES RECORD FINANCIAL RESULTS

Revenue, Profit, and Free Cash Flow Growth Driven by Adoption of Header Bidding, Mobile Monetization, and Video Spend

 

REDWOOD CITY, Calif, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- PubMatic, the automation solutions company for an open digital media industry, today announced that 2016 financial results reflect the highest levels of revenue, profit and free cash flow performance in its ten-year history, with an Adjusted EBITDA margin over 30%. Last year was the fourth year in a row that PubMatic achieved operating profitability (based on Adjusted EBITDA), and the company’s operating profit per full time employee (FTE) is now among the top tier in the “ad tech” space. Key drivers of the company’s strong financial results include increased adoption of header bidding, increased mobile and video monetization and PubMatic’s renewed commitment to customer satisfaction.

PubMatic launched its header bidding technology globally in 2012, and it now represents over 75% of all of PubMatic’s available impressions. Publishers utilizing PubMatic’s header bidding technology have often realized CPM increases exceeding 50%. Advanced mobile monetization strategies such as private marketplaces and header bidding, according to its recently released 2016 Quarterly Mobile Index (QMI), resulted in average PubMatic mobile eCPMs increasing by over 30% for mobile web and 16% for mobile app year-over-year. As such 75 % of PubMatic’s impressions were generated via mobile devices while the company realized over 25% of marketer spend placed against video in Q4 2016. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28344

DATAMEER DRIVES BUSINESS GROWTH WITH NEW EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP HIRES AND CUSTOMER WINS

National Instruments joins Datameer’s long list of customers SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 25  (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On the heels of appointing new CEO, Christian Rodatus, Datameer today announced George Shahid as chief financial officer (CFO) and Jeff Gallagher as senior vice president of sales. These executive leadership additions come at a critical stage of Datameer’s growth, as the company aggressively scales all aspects of its go-to-market strategy. The Hadoop big data analytics market is projected to grow from $6.71 billion in 2016 to $40.69 billion by 2021, according to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets. Named as one of CRN’s top business analytics vendors of 2016, Datameer is seeing a number of companies around the world turn to its big data analytics platform to discover insights faster, including Barclays, Anthem, Siemens AG, National Instruments (NI), Bank of Montreal (BMO), Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) and Etisalat. The appointments of Shahid and Gallagher capitalize on Datameer’s leadership as a superior global big data analytics solution, fast-growing customer base and deep industry and technology expertise. Shahid is a global operating and financial executive with an extensive background with enterprise software and SaaS companies from the early stages through global expansion and successful exits. He has served as CFO of a number of companies including Augmedix, Loyaltylab (acquired by TIBCO), Blueroads and Differential, Inc. (now a part of Tumbleweed).  http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28333

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES BIPOLAR STEPPING MOTOR DRIVER IC THAT NEEDS NO CURRENT DETECTION RESISTORS

TOKYO, Jan 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TB67S508FTG,” a bipolar stepping motor driver offering 40V high voltage and 3.0A current with no need for external current detection resistors. Sample shipment starts today.

 

Printers, office automation equipment, surveillance cameras, banking terminals such as ATMs, banknote identification machines, amusement machines, and home appliances are being downsized to save space and improve design. Low power consumption is also growing in importance as a means to scale down IC boards and reduce internal heat in products. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28331

THE WORLD'S TOP CITY DESTINATIONS REVEALED BY EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL

LONDON, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Market research company Euromonitor International released today the Top 100 City Destinations Ranking for 2015 international arrivals.

 
Despite falling arrivals, Hong Kong remained the top city destination in the world for the seventh consecutive year, with 26.7 million international visitors in 2015. Bangkok overtook London as the world’s second most visited city, with 10 percent growth in international arrivals. London moved down to the third spot in the global ranking but remained the top European city destination with international arrivals growing 7 percent in 2015.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28349

DOCTOR2U LAUNCHES E-COMMERCE SITE HEALTH2U

SHAH ALAM, Jan 25 (Bernama) -- Doctor2U recently announced the launching of a new healthcare ecommerce platform, Health2U. Unlike other e-commerce sites in Malaysia, Health2U will focus exclusively on listing health-related products and services. These will include health products such as vitamins and supplements, medical devices, health screening packages, surgery packages, and more. 

“We are very excited about the launch of the Health2U platform. We believe Health2U will fit perfectly within the Doctor2U ecosystem and its mission of making healthcare as convenient and accessible as possible,” said Keegan Flynn, co-founder of Doctor2U.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28336

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE DAI-ICHI LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED

HONG KONG, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited (DL) (Japan), a wholly owned subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect DL’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, strong market position and favorable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28345

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES CAR AUDIO CURRENT-FEEDBACK POWER AMPLIFIER IC WITH BUILT-IN FULL-TIME OFFSET DETECTION

TOKYO, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TCB502HQ,” a 4-channel power amplifier IC that detects output offset voltage, a factor in speaker burnout. Mass production starts today.

The new IC integrates a newly developed, full-time offset detection circuit that detects output offset voltage even during sound reproduction, preventing speaker burnout.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28343

SUPERIOR IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE AND GLOBAL COVERAGE SEDUCES ELITE CHINESE TRAVELLERS

VistaJet voted Business Jet Operator Star Performer at Hurun Research Institute’s "Best of the Best" Awards

• Voted for by 449 High Net Worth individuals from more than 40 cities in China
• Second time VistaJet has won the award
• Company was also given the Best Charter Operator Award by Asian Business Aviation Association in November 2016

HONG KONG, Jan 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VistaJet, the first and only global aviation company, received the Business Jet Operator Star Performer accolade for the second time at the Hurun Research Institute’s “Best of the Best” awards in Shanghai. The awards are based on the results of the Hurun Report Chinese Luxury Consumer Survey 2017. This is the thirteenth consecutive year Hurun Research has produced a report on the brand preferences, consumption habits and lifestyle trends of China’s wealthiest individuals; considered a benchmark for the luxury sector.
 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28334

COVISINT RECOGNIZED AS SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR BY SAIC GENERAL MOTORS

DETROIT and SHANGHAI, China, Jan 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Covisint Corporation (Nasdaq:COVS) today announced it has been recognized as a supplier of the year by SAIC General Motors for the second consecutive year during the Annual Suppliers’ Conference and 2016 Suppliers’ Awards Ceremony, held in Wuhan City, January 21, 2017.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28335

INTERNATIONAL COALITION FILES LAWSUIT IN DISTRICT COURT OF ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS, FOR DAMAGES CAUSED BY ALLEGED CORRUPTION AND FRAUD PERPETRATED BY PETROLEO BRASILIERO, CERTAIN AFFILIATES AND ITS EXECUTIVES

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- An International coalition announced today that a lawsuit was filed in Dutch Court yesterday on behalf of institutional investors who suffered billions of dollars in losses in their investments in Petroleo Brasiliero SA (“Petrobras”). Seeking declaratory relief as a result of the alleged corruption of the company and its executives, the coalition represents investors who purchased Petrobras securities on the BM&FBOVESPA exchange in Brazil and other securities purchased via transactions outside of, and not covered by, litigation in the United States. The damaged investor group believes the Netherlands is the optimal jurisdiction for pursuing legal action, as this is where Petrobras Global Finance B.V. and several other Petrobras entities and divisions are domiciled. In addition, the Dutch legal system has an established global settlement precedent for international investors who seek compensation pursuant to damages caused by fraud and violations of international securities laws.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28330

INNOVATORS, FINANCIERS, INDUSTRY LEADERS AND ENTERPRISES GATHER IN SINGAPORE FOR THE INAUGURAL DATACLOUD ASIA 2017, 23 FEBRUARY

BroadGroup’s world-renowned forum for data center and cloud offers insights into enterprise infrastructure opportunities in Asia Pacific

LONDON & SINGAPORE, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- As mega-clouds fuel massive scale data center growth across the Asia Pacific region BroadGroup, the international event and consulting group, will stage the first ever Datacloud Asia (http://www.datacloudasia.com/) the world-renowned forum for data center and cloud on February 23^rd in Singapore. The inaugural event brings innovators, investors, industry leaders and enterprises to debate the Asia drivers, challenges and enterprise infrastructure opportunities in the world’s premier networking and business deal-making congress for data center and cloud.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28327

XAXIS NAMES ARSHAN SAHA PRESIDENT, ASIA PACIFIC

Arshan Saha succeeds Michel de Rijk, who is now serving as APAC president at GroupM’s [m]PLATFORM, with immediate effect

 

SINGAPORE, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Xaxis, the world’s largest programmatic media and technology platform, announced today the promotion of Arshan Saha to President, Asia Pacific (APAC). Saha was previously Vice President, South and Southeast Asia. As one of the founding members of Xaxis APAC, Saha helped established offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and India.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28328

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE HOLLARD INSURANCE COMPANY PTY LTD

SINGAPORE, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a-" of The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (HIC) (Australia). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect HIC's strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and good operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28319

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO POSITIVE FOR NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA AND AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a-” of Nippon Life Insurance Company of America (NLB) (Des Moines, Iowa, USA). Concurrently, A.M. Best has affirmed the FSR of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term ICR of “aa-” of its parent, Nippon Life Insurance Company (Nissay) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect Nissay’s robust risk-adjusted capitalization, sound business profile and favorable operating results.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28320

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES 800V SUPER JUNCTION N-CHANNEL POWER MOSFETS FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY POWER SUPPLIES WITH IMPROVED LOW ON-RESISTANCE AND HIGH SPEED SWITCHING

TOKYO, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of 800V super junction N-channel power MOSFETs for high efficiency power supplies with improved low on-resistance and high speed switching. By utilizing the super junction structure, the eight new MOSFETs of the "DTMOS IV series" achieve approximately 79% reduction in on-resistance per area (RON x A) compared to Toshiba's previous "π-MOSVIII series." Its improved high speed switching can also contribute to the efficiency of the power supplies of the sets that it is used in. The MOSFETs are suited for use in industrial power supplies, standby power supply for servers, adaptors and chargers of notebook PCs and mobile devices, and in power supplies for LED lighting. Shipments start from today.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28314

9TH BUNKA FASHION GRADUATE UNIVERSITY FASHION WEEK SET FOR JAN. 30-FEB. 3

TOKYO, Jan 23 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

Bunka Fashion Graduate University (BFGU), a professional graduate school in Japan, will hold the Bunka Fashion Graduate University Fashion Week (BFGU FW) from January 30 to February 3. The ninth annual event features a symposium by Keisuke Imazaki (PLASTICTOKYO designer), Chisung Ihn (IHNN designer), Mari Odaka (malamute designer), Junya Satou (saat designer) and Takayuki Chino (CINOH designer).

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28323

MQA Takes Over PSD's Tasks Of Assessing, Accrediting Tertiary Courses

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has taken over the duties of the Public Service Department (PSD) in assessing and accrediting courses offered in tertiary institutions locally and abroad.

MQA chief executive officer (CEO) Prof Datuk Dr Rujhan Mustafa said the take over took effect early this year.

"Previously, assessing and accrediting an education programme either locally or abroad were the duties of the Standing Committee for Assessment and Qualification Recognition under the PSD.

"Now, the tasks had been taken over by the MQA to improve the effectiveness of extending quality assurance for tertiary institutions as well as to enhance communications with the general public," he told a press conference after attending the MQA CEO Aspiration & Media Appreciation event today.

At the event, the MQA also presented tokens of appreciation to media practitioners who helped convey information on the agency to the public.

Rujhan also advised Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) holders to check with the MQA the accreditations of courses offered to them by tertiary institutions before pursuing their studies.

He said most candidates were easily duped by false information that these programmes were offered with the collaboration of the MQA.

"They can refer to our website mqa.gov.my, or download the application myMQR on their smart phones or come to our agency to check if the course offered is registered with the MQA," he said.

As of December last year, the MQA had accredited 11,380 academic programmes in registered tertiary institutions across the country.

-- BERNAMA

Exim Bank Allocates RM1 Million For CSR Programmes

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Bhd (Exim Bank) has allocated RM1 million annually for its continued corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes.

Chairman Datuk Mat Noor Nawi said the bank plans nationwide CSR programmes this year.

He added that the programmes would be based on applications and feedback from Exim Bank staff.

He told reporters this after a RM10,000 cheque handover to an orphanage, Madrasah Hashimiah Tahfiz Al-Quran & Anak Yatim here today.

Apart from the cheque, Exim Bank also contributed basic necessities.

The orphanage shelters 171, including Rohingya refugees.

-- BERNAMA

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO STABLE FOR NEW INDIA ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to stable from positive, and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of New India Assurance Company Limited (New India) (India).

 
While the company remains profitable overall, its pretax margin has weakened, as underwriting performance for the 12 months to March 2016 and the six months to September 2016 has deteriorated and fallen behind its projections.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28310

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL COMPLETES US$700 MILLION REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

New unsecured structure increases financial capacity and flexibility to fund future growth

TORONTO, Jan 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) ("Colliers") announced today that it has expanded and extended its multi-currency revolving credit facility (the "Facility") to reinforce its already strong financial position and increase its flexibility for future growth. Borrowing capacity has been expanded to US$700 million, from US$525 million, and the maturity date extended to January 2022 from June 2020. The new unsecured Facility reflects Colliers' proven long-term growth strategy, increased scale, geographic and service line diversification, high level of insider ownership, and investment-grade balance sheet.

TD Securities acted as Lead Arranger for the financing. The Toronto-Dominion Bank acted as Administration Agent. HSBC Bank and Bank of Montreal acted as Syndication Agents while JP Morgan Chase Bank, The Bank of Nova Scotia and U.S. Bank acted as Documentation Agents. Additional bank participants include Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of America, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, National Bank of Canada, and Wells Fargo Bank. Torys LLP acted as legal counsel to Colliers in connection with this financing.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28302

HARKNESS SCREENS TO POWER MBO CINEMAS NEW FLAGSHIP ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX IN MALAYSIA

BANGALORE, India, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global screen technology leader Harkness Screens has been selected by MBO Cinemas - a leading cinema chain in Malaysia currently with 207 screens and a seating capacity of over 32,721 seats - for its new flagship entertainment hub in Kuala Lumpur, thus providing its viewers with an ultimate and enthralling cinema experience. The new Kuala Lumpur screen will use the DP4K-30L flagship laser projector by Barco. This partnership between Harkness Screens and MBO Cinemas makes Harkness Screens the exclusive screen provider for all future projects by MBO Cinemas.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28307

ELEMENTS HOLDINGS GROUP INC. & SUBSIDIARIES ANNOUNCES MICHAEL DOWNEY AS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

CHICAGO, Jan 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Elements Holdings Group Inc., a leading, Chicago-based professional employer organization (PEO) and Global Employer of Record (EOR) service provider, recently announced Michael Downey, Certified Public Accountant, has joined the company’s leadership team as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). He will succeed John Tytko, who served as Elements’ CFO for approximately two years.

“I am very excited to welcome Michael to the team,” said Rick Hammell, Chief Executive Officer of Elements. “We are extremely grateful for John’s contributions to Elements and know that Michael will be able to seamlessly fill this role. His experience working for rapidly growing companies and knowledge of launch and revenue growth strategies immediately impressed me. Building a team with diverse backgrounds and expertise, like Michael's, will help take Elements to the next level.” 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28295

ABEONA THERAPEUTICS RECEIVES ORPHAN DRUG DESIGNATION IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR ABO-101 GENE THERAPY IN SANFILIPPO SYNDROME TYPE B

NEW YORK and CLEVELAND, Jan 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 

• ABO-101, Abeona’s third AAV gene therapy program to receive EMA Orphan Designation
• Clinical trials anticipated to begin enrolling in second quarter 2017
• Natural History Study in 25 patients has established efficacy outcome measures
• FDA previously granted Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease Designations   

Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq:ABEO), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing gene therapies for life-threatening rare diseases, announced today that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products has granted Orphan Drug Designation (EMA/OD/226/16) for Abeona’s gene therapy program ABO-101 for children impacted by Sanfilippo syndrome type B (MPS IIIB), a rare autosomal recessive disease that causes neurocognitive decline, speech loss, loss of mobility, and premature death in children.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28311

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF SOUTH CHINA INSURANCE CO., LTD.

HONG KONG, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of South China Insurance Co., Ltd. (South China Insurance) (Taiwan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect South China Insurance’s sound risk-adjusted capitalization, track record of favorable operating performance and its diversified distribution capabilities, which include direct, agents and brokers, car dealers and financial institutions. The company also benefits from synergies with its publicly traded parent, Hua Nan Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. (HNFH), in risk management and cross-selling opportunities.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28309

FINALCAD APPOINTS AEC INDUSTRY VETERAN EMMANUEL SAMUEL TO ACCELERATE GROWTH IN ASIA

SINGAPORE, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- FINALCAD, a global leader in mobile construction apps and predictive analytics for the field, today announced appointment of Emmanuel Samuel as Vice President Sales, Asia.

 
Emmanuel brings more than 25 years of experience in IT Business Development, Sales and Marketing, with particular strength in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) market. He will be responsible for expanding FINALCAD’s revenue in the Asian region, based out of the Singapore office.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28303

SHISEIDO ACQUIRES A U.S.-BASED START-UP, MATCHCO, THROUGH ITS REGIONAL HEADQUARTERS, SHISEIDO AMERICAS

 NEW YORK, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Shiseido Company, Limited ("Shiseido"), announced today that its regional headquarters and consolidated subsidiary, Shiseido Americas Corporation (Delaware, USA; "SAC"), has acquired MATCHCo (California, USA), a privately-held company utilizing revolutionary technology and innovative digital tools to provide consumers with individually customized foundation at scale.

The synergy of MATCHCo’s innovative digital tools and Shiseido Group’s R&D capabilities will help to enhance a business model that captures a major consumer trend: cosmetics customization.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28301

HOSHINO RESORTS OPENS ITS FIRST HOTEL ABROAD IN BALI, HOSHINOYA BALI IN JANUARY, 2017

TOKYO, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The leading Japanese hotel management company, Hoshino Resorts Inc. (Yoshiharu Hoshino, CEO) is opening its first HOSHINOYA brand hotel abroad in Bali, the Republic of Indonesia on January 20th, 2017. “HOSHINOYA Bali” is enveloped by the lush green hills of Ubud, known as a center for Balinese traditional crafts and dance, surrounded by an environment of untouched rich nature. HOSHINOYA Bali overlooks the Pakerisan River, with sacred water canals running through the property, part of the island’s age-old water temple network recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Landscape.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28300

ASSOCIATION OF INTERNATIONAL CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS URGES SOUTH AFRICA'S AUDIT REGULATOR TO REJECT MANDATORY AUDIT FIRM ROTATION

NEW YORK & LONDON, Jan 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association) has voiced its strong opposition to a plan by South Africa’s Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) to implement mandatory audit firm rotation (MAFR).   In a written response to IRBA’s Consultation Paper, the Association, which has offices in locations including Johannesburg, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, London, New York and Shanghai, wrote that MAFR “may have a negative impact on audit quality, increase market concentration to a more limited number of auditing firms, and will hinder, rather than promote, transformation of the profession.”  http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28288

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY SPECIALTY INSURANCE COMPANY EXPANDS TO MALAYSIA, NAMES GAITHRIE NANDRAJOG BRANCH MANAGER & KOO KANG WUU BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

BOSTON, Jan 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (BHSI) today announced that it has received a license from Labuan FSA to provide non-life reinsurance to the Malaysian market. The company also established a new office in Kuala Lumpur and named Gaithrie Nandrajog as Branch Manager and Koo Kang Wuu as Executive & Professional Lines and Business Development Manager in Malaysia.

 

“After putting down roots in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau, we are pleased to further expand our operations in Asia and bring facultative reinsurance capacity and new products with the backing of our strong balance sheet to selected Malaysian insurance partners,” said Marc Breuil, President, Asia, BHSI. “With the opening of our Malaysian office, we continue to deepen our underwriting and claims capabilities in the region.” 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28286

PWC: CEO CONFIDENCE RISES DESPITE NEW RISKS AND UNCERTAINTY

-Confidence in company growth rises

-Fifty two per cent of CEOs plan to increase number of jobs

-Concerns about over regulation and lack of key skills at record levels

-CEOs feel globalisation has done little to solve income inequality

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While CEOs around the world feel they have plenty to worry about in the year ahead, their confidence in their own growth prospects and their outlook for the global economy are back on the rise.

Graphics accompanying this announcement are available at

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28285

PERFECTUS FILES CLAIM TO RECOVER LOSSES RELATED TO ALUMINUM SEIZURE

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. filed today a claim against the U.S. government seeking monetary damages. In its claim, Perfectus seeks reimbursement for millions of dollars in storage costs that it incurred as a result of the government’s wrongful conduct in detaining its export shipment of aluminum pallets at the Long Beach Port in California. In accordance with applicable government regulations, this claim is being made in the first instance in an administrative proceeding before the U.S. Customs Border Protection agency (the CBP), which is a prerequisite to suing for damages in federal court. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28287

​UBS SIGNS STRATEGIC MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH EPAM TO BOOST INNOVATION

NEWTOWN, Pa., Jan 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), a leading global provider of product development and software engineering solutions, today announced that UBS AG, the world's largest wealth manager, has signed a multi-year strategic framework agreement. For the past nine years, UBS and EPAM have collaborated to stay at the forefront of technology, positioning UBS as a global leader in innovative financial products and services. The agreement, which is valued at over $300M, supports the bank’s strategic cost reduction program. This commitment to efficiency allows EPAM to continue to focus on innovative, end-to-end solutions, reducing time-to-market and improving ROI on technology investments.
 
“Over the past nine years, EPAM has become a key supplier in helping us meet our clients’ expectations by working closely together with UBS, while maintaining commitments to productivity and quality of delivery,” said Mike Dargan, Group Head of Information Technology, UBS. “We now look forward to evolving this valued relationship further over the coming years.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28296

ALLIED WORLD GLOBAL MARKETS BUILDS OUT AUSTRALIA PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY TEAM

 ZUG, Switzerland, Jan 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, AG (NYSE:AWH) announced today that Kym Beazleigh has been appointed Vice President, Professional Liability, Australia, based in Sydney. He will report to Ed Moresco, Senior Vice President, Professional Liability.

Ed Moresco said: “This appointment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to strengthening our team in Australia and across the region. Kym’s knowledge and experience is a welcome addition to our well established Professional Liability offering in Asia-Pacific, enabling us to build on our existing success and continue to deliver high quality client service.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28294

IHS MARKIT NAMES BROADSOFT THE UCAAS PLATFORM GLOBAL MARKET SHARE LEADER

As cloud unified communications moves upmarket to large enterprises and towards multi-tenant cloud solutions, recent launch of BroadSoft Business positions BroadSoft to build on market leadership position

 
GAITHERSBURG, Md., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BroadSoft, Inc. (NASDAQ:BSFT), has been identified by IHS Markit as the global Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) platform leader, with 38% of the total worldwide UCaaS seats running on its platforms, as of the second quarter of 2016.  According to the IHS study, the BroadSoft UCaaS global market leadership position places it ahead of its closest competitors.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b75496a-de76-4c22-817c-5cd09d8db1f2  

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28280

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF HONG LEONG INSURANCE (ASIA) LIMITED

HONG KONG, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Hong Leong Insurance (Asia) Limited (HLIA) (Hong Kong). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect HLIA’s very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, consistently profitable operating performance and low product risk profile. HLIA maintains very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). This is reflective mainly of its low underwriting leverage, strong quality of capital and favorable liquidity position. In addition, with a conservative gross leverage ratio, the company is not considered to be highly dependent on reinsurance. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28277

UPDATE ON PERFECTUS' SHIPMENT FROM PORT OF LONG BEACH

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. would like to clarify recent reports regarding export of our product at the Port of Long Beach in California.

Perfectus has learned this morning through media reports of the seizure of formerly detained product by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of Long Beach. We are surprised to learn about this development as CBP-after inspection-previously released a significant portion of previously detained shipments containing identical product.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28279

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF QUEST INSURANCE GROUP LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B (Fair) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bb” of Quest Insurance Group Limited (Quest) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) remains stable.

The ratings reflect Quest’s favorable risk-adjusted capitalization, low product risk profile and positive operating results. A.M. Best expects Quest’s risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), to remain adequate in supporting its near-term business growth plans. Overall operating results have been consistently positive, stemming from contributions from Quest’s large investment portfolio, relative to its premium revenue.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28276

AUTHENTICITY AND WELLNESS AS A STATUS SYMBOL AMONG THE TOP 10 GLOBAL CONSUMER TRENDS FOR 2017

LONDON, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The top 10 consumer trends for 2017 were revealed today by market research company Euromonitor International.

 

According to the report, ‘Top 10 Global Consumer Trends for 2017’, authenticity is a standout consumer value in 2017, heralded by everyone from changemakers and celebrities to supermarkets and chefs. In the conscious debate about what actually counts as authentic, companies make efforts to ensure authenticity is part of this reach for the real. Examples vary from Airbnb’s Guidebooks feature, which lets owners share local information, to food apps helping consumers know more about what they’re buying, and tour operators who promote their unplugged vacations to help consumers get away from “synthetic” digital life.

“Consumers are now more demanding of products, services and brands than ever before and are using digital tools to articulate and fulfil their needs. They want authenticity in what they buy and expect elements of personalisation in mass produced as well as upscale items”, states author, Euromonitor International’s Consumer Trends Editor, Daphne Kasriel-Alexander. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28282

GENEA AND MERCK OPEN FERTILITY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

BANGKOK, Thailand, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- Australian fertility group Genea and German science and technology company Merck have today opened The Centre of Excellence for Fertility in Bangkok.

The Centre of Excellence for Fertility has been developed with the goal of creating a global benchmark for fertility treatment by standardising clinic management and laboratory protocols in IVF and therefore increasing success rates for patients worldwide.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28283

SAMMY NETWORKS STARTS DISTRIBUTING "RAMEN SOUL," ENGLISH VERSION OF ITS POPULAR SMARTPHONE RAMEN SHOP MANAGEMENT GAME "RAMEN TAMASHII" WITH OVER 5 MILLION DOWNLOADS

TOKYO, Jan 13 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

In response to the ramen boom overseas in recent years, Sammy Networks Co., Ltd. started distributing on Jan. 12, 2017, the English version of its popular smartphone ramen shop management game "Ramen Tamashii," which has hit five million downloads in Japan, simultaneously for iPhones (through the App Store) and Android devices (through the Google Play Store) under the title of "Ramen Soul."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28273

RedHill Biopharma Provides 2017 Semi-Annual Business Update

TEL-AVIV, Israel, Jan. 13, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ:RDHL) (TASE:RDHL) (“RedHill” or the “Company”), a specialty biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on the development and commercialization of late clinical-stage, proprietary, orally-administered, small molecule drugs for gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases and cancer, today provided an update on key programs, potential milestones and estimated timelines.

Micha Ben Chorin, RedHill’s CFO, said: “We are heading into 2017 with important potential catalysts in the coming months and with several ongoing Phase III and Phase II programs for gastrointestinal indications. Following the recently announced U.S. co-promotion agreement for Donnatal®1, RedHill is advancing its strategic transition into a revenue-generating, gastrointestinal-focused, specialty pharmaceutical company with commercial presence in the U.S. This transition is planned to support potential future commercialization of RedHill’s Phase III-stage gastrointestinal drugs, if approved by the FDA. We are backed by strong institutional investors and maintain a debt-free balance sheet with approximately $70 million in cash, allowing us to continue to diligently execute our plans.”


SOURCE : RedHill Biopharma Ltd. 

Need For Smart, Creative Strategy To Draw Youngsters To Islamic Teachings

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 12 (Bernama) -- Religious institutions need to employ a smart and creative strategy in line with the needs of young people in bringing them closer to Islamic teachings.

Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) director-general, Prof Datuk Dr Azizan Baharuddin said with the world becoming increasingly challenging now, creativity in doing missionary work was important to ensure that Islamic teachings could be delivered effectively.

--BERNAMA

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/newsindex.php?id=1319366

CUMMINS INC. DOES NOT USE DEFEAT DEVICES AND IS COMMITTED TO MEETING EMISSIONS STANDARDS

Cummins Does Not Supply Engines for the FCA Products in Question

COLUMBUS, Ind., Jan 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) today stated that it does not supply engines for the FCA vehicles that are discussed in the Environmental Protection Agency's Notice of Violation issued today, nor was Cummins named.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28269

PWC ANNOUNCES NEW GLOBAL CORPORATE TAX SERVICES TEAM

Global Enterprise Tax Solutions Team Comprised of Former GE Tax Group

NEW YORK, Jan 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Today, PwC announced an innovative agreement with GE to provide integrated, enterprise managed tax services to GE on a global basis. As part of this agreement, PwC will hire more than 600 of GE's highly regarded tax team members from around the world and acquire GE's tax technologies to further both PwC's focus on the Tax Function of The Future and the provision of global enterprise tax solutions to the marketplace.

PwC has the largest tax practice in the US and the world with a global network of 41,000 tax professionals operating in 157 countries. Leveraging the proven experience and expertise of the GE team, PwC believes it has identified an opportunity that recognizes the future needs of a rapidly changing marketplace.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28267

RedHill Biopharma Announces QIDP Fast-Track Designation Granted by FDA to RHB-104 for Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections

TEL-AVIV, Israel, Jan. 12, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ:RDHL) (TASE:RDHL) (“RedHill” or the “Company”), a specialty biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on the development and commercialization of late clinical-stage, proprietary, orally-administered, small molecule drugs for gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases and cancer, today announced that RHB-104 has been granted Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) designation by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) infections. The QIDP designation was granted under the FDA's Generating Antibiotic Incentives Now (GAIN) Act, which is intended to encourage development of new antibiotic drugs for the treatment of serious or life-threatening infections.

The granted QIDP designation allows RedHill to benefit from Fast-Track status, with an expedited development pathway for RHB-104 for the treatment of NTM infections, as well as Priority Review, which provides for a shorter review time by the FDA of a future potential marketing application. If approved for the treatment of NTM infections, RHB-104 would also receive an additional five years of U.S. market exclusivity on top of the standard exclusivity period.     

RHB-104 is a proprietary and potentially groundbreaking antibiotic combination therapy in oral capsule formulation, with potent intracellular, anti-mycobacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. 

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS IN DENMARK

Acquires market-leading Colliers Denmark affiliate to strengthen global platform

TORONTO, Jan 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading global commercial real estate services firm Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) announced today that it has acquired a controlling interest in Colliers International Denmark (“Colliers Denmark”). Senior management of Colliers Denmark will retain the balance of the equity under Colliers International’s unique enterprise partnership model. The acquisition of Colliers Denmark further strengthens Colliers International’s operations in Europe and provides a strong platform for future growth in the important Nordic region. The terms of the transactions were not disclosed.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28268

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES SECOND GENERATION 650V SIC SCHOTTKY BARRIER DIODES WITH IMPROVED SURGE FORWARD CURRENT

TOKYO, Jan 12 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation’s (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of second generation 650V silicon carbide (SiC) schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) that improve on the surge forward current (IFSM) offered by the company’s current products by approximately 70%. Shipments of the new line-up of eight SiC schottky barrier diodes start today.

The new SiC schottky barrier diodes, fabricated with Toshiba’s second-generation SiC process, deliver approximately 70% better surge forward current than first generation products, and at the same time reduce the switching loss index of “RON * Qc” [1] by around 30%, making them suitable for use in efficient power factor correction (PFC) schemes.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28266