"This resolution allows both companies to focus on what matters most—delivering innovative solutions to our customers," said Andy Watt, CEO at Nearmap. "We are pleased to put this matter behind us and move forward."

"We are satisfied that this matter has been resolved," said Piers Dormeyer, CEO at Eagleview. "We look ahead to advancing our mission and serving our customers."

Centered around Toyota City, home to global automaker Toyota, FORUM8 Rally Japan is a tarmac rally spanning 20 Special Stages (SS) across a total competitive distance of 302.82 kilometers. Staged on narrow, winding mountain asphalt roads flanked by steep cliffs, barriers, and dense vegetation, the rally is widely regarded as one of the most technical and demanding rallies on the WRC calendar.

With virtually no straight sections, the rally's continuous corner sequences and narrow road widths leave little room for error, making precise vehicle control and consistent line-holding critical to performance. Mountain fog, localized rainfall, and constantly shifting surface temperatures and humidity levels add further complexity, with tire grip, handling, and drainage performance expected to be decisive factors throughout the competition.

Hankook will supply its tarmac rally tires, the Ventus Z215 and Ventus Z210, to deliver stable performance throughout the event. The Ventus Z215, engineered for dry surfaces, delivers outstanding cornering and handling performance, while the Ventus Z210, optimized for wet and damp conditions, provides excellent drainage and reliable grip. Both tires are engineered to maintain consistent grip through continuous cornering sections and rapidly changing road conditions, helping drivers with stable, controlled performance throughout the rally.

Following Vodafone Rally de Portugal, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team's Elfyn Evans leads the Drivers' Championship with 123 points, while teammate Takamoto Katsuta remains close behind on 111 points. Katsuta, who claimed his maiden WRC victory at Safari Rally Kenya earlier this season, will now compete on home soil at FORUM8 Rally Japan, where attention will be focused on whether he can further close the gap at the top.

With the gap between manufacturers and drivers remaining narrow, FORUM8 Rally Japan is drawing significant attention as a pivotal mid-season turning point. The rally also serves as TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team's home event, drawing strong attention from global motorsport fans.

Building on its advanced technology and rigorous quality standards, Hankook has established a strong premium brand presence in Japan, a market renowned for its exacting quality standards. Meeting the stringent technical requirements of leading Japanese automakers including Toyota, Nissan, and Honda, Hankook continues to expand its OE tire supply to major vehicle lineups, further strengthening its position as a trusted OE partner.

The ENSURE study (NCT05970289) is a multicenter, open-label Phase 2 study in the Asia-Pacific region. Cohorts 1-3 were designed to evaluate the contribution of elebsiran, an investigational small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA), to the combination treatment with PEG-IFNα in participants with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with baseline hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) of 100-3,000 IU/mL.

Cohort 4 evaluated a novel sequential combination treatment strategy for HBV utilizing Brii Bio's therapeutic vaccine, BRII-179, to prime and enrich participants with a goal of improving responsiveness to curative therapies. Participants previously treated with 9 doses of BRII-179 and elebsiran in the prior Phase 2 study BRII-179-835-001 (NCT04749368) were enrolled and received 48 weeks of combination treatment with elebsiran and PEG-IFNα. These participants were categorized as BRII-179 anti-HBs responders or non-responders based on whether their peak hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) titers exceeded 10 IU/L during the prior study.

All participants were maintained on nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) for an additional 24 weeks upon completion of PEG-IFNα + elebsiran treatment. Functional cure rates at the end of ENSURE study, defined as sustained HBsAg loss with undetectable HBV DNA for at least 24 weeks after stopping all treatment, including NAs, are presented. Final results demonstrated that the HBsAg loss benefit observed in the elebsiran and PEG-IFNα combination cohorts translated into a higher functional cure rate compared to the PEG-IFNα alone cohort. BRII-179-experienced participants achieved higher functional cure rates, particularly among anti-HBs responders, suggesting that BRII-179 may play an important role in achieving durable immunological control of HBV.

Brii Bio is conducting two additional Phase 2b trials to further define the role of BRII-179 in the treatment of chronic HBV infection and to optimize combination regimens for pivotal studies. The ENRICH study is evaluating the role of BRII-179 in priming HBV-specific immunity and identifying immuno-responsive patients with a higher likelihood of achieving functional cure. The ENHANCE study consists of two parts: one evaluating concurrent triple combination therapy with BRII-179, elebsiran and PEG-IFNα for 48 weeks, and another evaluating a sequential regimen of BRII-179 and elebsiran for 24 weeks followed by triple combination therapy for 24 weeks. End-of-treatment (EOT) data from both studies are expected to be presented in 2026.

"We are encouraged by the consistency of the findings observed throughout the ENSURE study and believe these final results highlight the potential of BRII-179 and elebsiran in improving functional cure outcomes," said David Margolis, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Brii Bio. "Together with upcoming data from our ongoing studies, these results provide important insights to guide the future development of our HBV functional cure program."

Details of the late-breaker poster presentation are as follows:

Title: Functional cure rate in chronic hepatitis B virus infected participants receiving elebsiran and pegylated interferon alfa: final results from the phase 2 ENSURE study

Session/Presentation Type: Late-breaker posters

Session Time: May 27, 08:30 - May 30, 16:00 (UTC+1)

Abstract Number/Identifier: LB26-5012/ LBP-040

Presenter: Grace Lai-Hung Wong, MBChB (CUHK), MD (CUHK), FRCP (Lond, Edin), FHKCP, FHKAM (Medicine), Professor of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at CUHK Medical Data Analytics Centre (MDAC) and Department of Medicine and Therapeutics in Hong Kong SAR, China

• At Week 72 (24 weeks post EOT), 19 of 20 participants who achieved HBsAg loss met NA discontinuation criteria and stopped NA for the additional 24-week follow-up; One participant remained HBeAg positive.
• In Cohorts 1-3, functional cure was achieved in 2/19 (10.5%) and 3/18 (16.7%) participants from the elebsiran 200 mg or 100 mg + PEG-IFNα cohorts, respectively, compared with 1/18 (5.6%) in the PEG-IFNα cohort. In Cohort 4, functional cure was achieved in 8/31 (25.8%) participants, including 7/19 (36.8%) among anti-HBs responders compared with 1/12 (8.3%) among non-responders.
• Although all participants achieving functional cure had a baseline HBsAg levels below 1,000 IU/mL in the ENSURE study, 4/7 (57.1%) of anti-HBs responders achieving functional cure had baseline HBsAg levels between 1,154 and 3,086 IU/mL at enrollment in the prior BRII-179-835-001 study.
• After NA discontinuation, no new treatment-related adverse events (TRAE) were reported. Most TRAEs resolved during the post EOT follow-up period.
• Participants achieving sustained HBsAg loss through combination therapy demonstrated favorable off-NA outcomes, characterized by infrequent HBV DNA rebound and no ALT elevations.

In a separate oral presentation, Dr. Nina Le Bert will report findings from a translational study evaluating immunological responses associated with BRII‑179 using samples from the ENSURE and prior BRII-179-835-001 trials. The study identified a novel mechanism whereby BRII‑179 induced CD4+ T‑cell response targeting epitope sequences in the Pre-S1 region that are mismatched to circulating HBV genotypes. These vaccine‑induced T cells remained functionally stable for over two years, persisted during subsequent PEG-IFNα and siRNA treatment. Notably, these T‑cell responses were associated with progressive maturation of HBs‑specific B cells during treatment, an effect linked to enhanced HBsAg loss rates. These findings provide new insights into the potential mechanisms underlying BRII‑179–mediated functional cure.

For more information about Brii Bio's HBV programs visit www.briibio.com.

VOVO – a differentiated integrated e-commerce application

Unlike online shopping models that mainly focus on the steps of product selection, payment, and delivery, VOVO is developing its platform in a way that extends the consumer journey. In this model, the consignment mechanism is regarded as one of the notable features, giving users additional options for handling goods after completing a transaction for certain eligible products.

According to VOVO, in addition to standard shopping functions, the platform integrates a time-limited consignment mechanism for certain suitable products. This mechanism allows users, after completing a transaction and before delivery takes place, to choose either to receive the product or to use the consignment option in accordance with the platform’s regulations.

This approach makes the shopping experience more flexible while also increasing interactivity throughout the consumer journey. Instead of stopping at purchase and delivery, users have additional options after the transaction that better suit their personal needs, thereby reducing concerns during the purchase decision-making process.

VOVO is developed on a mobile application infrastructure combined with a real-time transaction data management system. This system supports the tracking of product status, transaction history, and user operation processes, thereby contributing to greater transparency in operations and helping optimise the user experience.

VOVO e-commerce team

Some experts in the digital economy sector believe that, as e-commerce enters a stage of deeper competition centred on experience, models that combine online shopping, user interaction, and goods circulation mechanisms are gradually attracting attention in many markets. The addition of a consignment mechanism not only provides consumers with more options, but also helps expand the usage value of goods in the context of digital consumption.

VOVO is demonstrating its effort to develop a more participatory e-commerce model, in which users are not only buyers, but can also play a more proactive role in the process of experiencing, choosing, and handling products after the transaction.

VOVO receives “The Best of Vietnam 2026” award in the “Innovation & Creativity” category

Going forward, the platform said it will continue to optimise the user experience, refine its operating processes, and expand its partnership ecosystem. This is considered the foundation for VOVO to continue developing its interest-based e-commerce model in Vietnam, while also contributing a new perspective to the innovation of the online shopping experience.

Southeast Asian e-commerce market hit $157 billion in 2025 Southeast Asia’s e-commerce gross merchandise value (GMV) grew 22.8 per cent on-year in 2025 to reach $157.6 billion, as leading platforms returned to growth while continuing to improve infrastructure, fulfilment, and customer experience, according to Momentum Works.

Vietnam enters next phase of e-commerce export growth Vietnam’s fast-growing e-commerce sector is increasingly viewed as a contributor to export growth.

Over 200,000 OCOP items listed on e-commerce platforms More than 200,000 One Commune, One Product items have been labelled through the 'Vietnam Goods Rise Up' initiative launched on TikTok Shop in 2025.

According to “Global Wealth Report 2026” released by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) on May 27, Vietnam's financial wealth growth of the affluent is projected to rise 9 per cent annually through 2030, ranking among the top 20 emerging markets.

However, local offerings, meanwhile, have not kept pace. Investment product shelves are often thin, provider choice is limited, and service models remain closer to retail banking than true wealth management.

BCG cited a logistics director in Ho Chi Minh City who has crossed the threshold from the mass-affluent middle class into a new financial reality, with half a million dollars, perhaps more. However, his assets sit largely in a bank deposit account, earning little, invested in almost nothing.

As one of the high-growth, wealth-management maturity markets, Vietnam offers the greatest potential to build new capabilities.

The most attractive segment for wealth managers is the affluent and emerging high-net-worth (HNW) tier, broadly defined as clients with $250,000 to $5 milli on in investable assets. In emerging markets, this group is large, growing fast, and structurally underserved.

They have outgrown standard deposit products, particularly as interest rates fall, but do not yet qualify for the full-service models that international wealth managers reserve for larger clients. And the international players in many emerging markets are pulling back. Rising compliance costs, tighter crossborder requirements, and a broader push to reduce complexity have led global wealth managers to concentrate on clients with $5 million and above, leaving the affluent and lower HNW segment increasingly to local players.

BCG estimates that emerging markets will add $12 trillion of financial wealth and account for roughly 10 per cent of global wealth growth between now and the end of the decade. The affluent-and-above segment –individuals with over $250,000 in financial wealth –is forecast to grow at an average of 8 per cent annually in these markets through 2030, adding over 1 million dollar millionaires by 2030.

The growth is concentrated but broad. India alone will add more than $2 trillion in total wealth by 2030, followed by Brazil at $1 trillion and Mexico at $600 billion. Strong GDP growth, rising domestic savings rates, and expanding affluent and middle classes are all driving this acceleration. The wealth management ecosystem has yet to catch up, and that is where the opportunity lies.

Wealth management in Vietnam: evolution and innovation Vietnam’s wealth management sector has undergone significant growth, driven by rapid economic development, an expanding affluent population, and increasing sophistication in financial planning services. Dinh Thi Thu Nga, head of Internal Audit, Techcom Securities, spoke with VIR’s Bich Thuy about the sector’s revolution, and future innovation trends.

A tipping point for digital and hybrid wealth management in Vietnam Vietnam is entering a wealth-accumulation phase similar to other Asian markets such as China, where hybrid wealth management has become essential, driving demand for platforms that are both transparent and accessible while still delivering deep professional expertise.

Techcombank Private redefines wealth management in Vietnam Techcombank Private is setting a new benchmark for wealth management in Vietnam with a lifetime wealth management model that blends international expertise, a deep understanding of the country’s wealth landscape, and a premium lifestyle ecosystem.

Vietjet Thailand, a joint venture with nearly 1,500 Thai employees, stands as a symbol of the close friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The airline currently operates a fleet of 22 aircraft, including 10 new-generation Boeing 737-8 aircraft, and is increasingly embraced by the Thai people.

Vietjet and Muang Thai Insurance cooperate to promote sports, cultural exchange, and community development initiatives

The event marked an inspiring meeting between two influential female leaders in Southeast Asia: Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, chairwoman of Vietjet, and Nualphan Lamsam (Madam Pang), CEO of Muang Thai Insurance and president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT).

Thao has been a dedicated supporter of Vietnamese football and futsal for over a decade

Thao said, “Flights connect cities, while sports connect people’s hearts. We believe the partnership between Vietjet and Muang Thai Insurance will help spread the great values of Vietnam–Thailand friendship and inspire younger generations across the region.”

For more than a decade, Vietjet has remained a steadfast companion of Vietnamese football and futsal through sponsorship activities, grassroots sports development programmes, and support for the national teams.

Nualphan Lamsam (Madam Pang), CEO of Muang Thai Insurance and president of the FAT at the signing ceremony

In Thailand, Madam Pang is regarded as an iconic figure in the country’s football scene. As the first female president in FAT’s history, she has played a major role in advancing youth football, women’s football, and the professionalisation of the Thai League through her energy and passion for sports.

Madam Pang said, “On behalf of Muang Thai Insurance, we are delighted to collaborate with Vietjet Group in enhancing passenger protection through travel insurance solutions, while also exploring opportunities for broader insurance cooperation."

"More importantly, this partnership extends beyond the business sector into sports and social development, which are areas both organisations genuinely value and share a common vision for. Beyond the business opportunities between our two organisations, I would also like to sincerely thank the Vietnamese people, especially football fans, for always welcoming me with warmth and kindness whenever I have visited Vietnam.”

The event in Bangkok marks a meeting between two influential female leaders in Southeast Asia: Madam Pang and Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao

Under the cooperation agreement, the two sides will jointly explore travel insurance and non-life insurance initiatives for passengers across Vietjet Group’s extensive flight network, while also promoting youth football development, cultural exchanges, and the global promotion of the images and values of Vietnam and Thailand.

Alongside the expansion of its international flight network, Vietjet, together with Muang Thai Insurance, aspires to bring the values of aviation, football, culture, and the ASEAN community further onto the global stage, elevating the image of Vietnam, Thailand, and Southeast Asia worldwide.

In the near future, Vietjet and Vikki Bank will also accompany ASEAN United FC, one of the region’s major football tournaments, serving as a bridge connecting hundreds of millions of Southeast Asian football fans as Vietnam and Thailand celebrate the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Vietjet's 2026 AGM highlights strong 2025 results On April 26, Vietjet Aviation JSC successfully held its 2026 AGM, embarking on a new development phase with a global vision and long-term value for shareholders.

Vietjet records strong growth in Q1 Vietjet Aviation JSC on May 1 announced its financial statement for the first quarter of 2026, reporting strong business growth through operational optimisation and international network expansion.

Vietjet launches direct service linking Vietnam and Sri Lanka Vietjet has announced its first direct route between Vietnam and Sri Lanka, connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Colombo, as part of the airline's international expansion.

The summit was jointly organised by the National Innovation Centre (NIC) under the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Vietnam Private Capital Agency (VPCA) and Do Ventures.

The event took place as Vietnam is implementing a series of strategic reforms aimed at upgrading its capital market status, promoting science, technology and innovation, and developing an International Financial Centre.

At the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Finance Le Tan Can said that Vietnam was entering a new phase of development, in which sci-tech, innovation, digital transformation, and the private sector are key growth drivers.

“With an economy of around $500 billion, ranking among the world’s 35 largest economies, together with rapid growth in the digital economy, startup ecosystem, and investment flows into high-tech sectors, Vietnam is presented with significant opportunities to make breakthroughs in strategic areas such as AI, semiconductors, and digital technologies,” he said.

He noted that the Ministry of Finance was improving the institutional framework and developing the capital market towards greater transparency, modernity, and alignment with international standards. At the same time, it is studying mechanisms to support venture capital funds, sci-tech investment funds, and public–private partnership models to effectively mobilise resources for innovation.

“The Ministry of Finance remains committed to accompanying the business and investment community, contributing to a more favourable environment for attracting long-term capital into strategic technology sectors, thereby laying the foundation for strong and sustainable growth,” he said.

Thomas Lanyi, CEO of CDH Investments Singapore and Senior Advisor to VPCA, said portfolio capital flows in and out of Vietnam have remained relatively balanced and have increased significantly in recent years.

“Vietnam seeks to become a place where regional and global capital does not merely enter and exit periodically but instead establishes a long-term presence, where it is managed, structured, financed, reallocated, enhanced, and compounded over time,” Lanyi said.

He added that to use an analogy, rather than simply hosting events, Vietnam aims to become an ecosystem built around capital flows.

“This is not only about attracting investment inflows but also capturing the broader economic value that accompanies them, including fees, employment, knowledge transfer, tax revenues, as well as long-term stability and continuity,” he added.

“For those who have followed Vietnam over many years, this ambition is entirely understandable and well-founded. Vietnam has delivered one of the most remarkable and sustained growth stories globally over the past two decades and is on a trajectory to become one of Southeast Asia’s leading economies. At the same time, the government has built a strong reputation for long-term strategic vision and remarkable execution speed,” he said.

One of the key highlights of the forum was the official launch of the Vietnam Technology and Innovation Investment Report 2026 and the Vietnam Capital Flow Indicators.

The report, jointly developed by NIC, VPCA and BCG, provides a comprehensive overview of Vietnam’s innovation-driven capital market, technology investment trends, venture capital activities, the growth of technology enterprises, and the movement of domestic and international capital flows.

The release of these two strategic data products is considered an important step towards professionalising Vietnam’s innovation investment market and strengthening international investor confidence in the country.

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang spoke at the summit

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang said he appreciated the in-depth discussions among policymakers, domestic and international investors, and enterprises on Vietnam’s development prospects in the era of technology.

He emphasised that Vietnam was facing a historic opportunity to participate more deeply in new global value chains, particularly in areas such as AI, semiconductors, data, and digital technology.

“To seize this opportunity, Vietnam needs to build an open innovation ecosystem that closely connects the State, enterprises, research institutes, universities, and the international investment community, thereby transforming knowledge, technology, and capital into national competitiveness,” he said.

The DPM affirmed that the government would continue to create better conditions for Vietnam to become a destination for innovation, where bold ideas are nurtured, technology enterprises are developed, and high-quality capital flows are connected with the country’s long-term growth opportunities.

VIPC Summit 2025 to call for more investment in innovation and startups The Vietnam Innovation and Private Capital (VIPC) Summit 2025 will open up cooperation investment opportunities for the innovation and startup ecosystem, contributing to Vietnam's growth goals.

VIPC Summit 2026 to connect global investors with strategic tech sectors As the country accelerates growth, the Vietnam Innovation and Private Capital Summit 2026 is expected to serve as a key platform connecting global investors with the nation's evolving technology ecosystem.

Vietnamese Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan and Prof., Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat exchanged Letters of Intents. Photo: the MST

The event was held in Bangkok under the witness of the leaders of the two countries.

The two sides are reaffirming their commitment to implementing the agreement on cooperation in science, technology and innovation between the government of Vietnam and the government of the Kingdom of Thailand, signed in Bangkok in August 2017.

This exchange demonstrates the determination of both sides to restore and encourage implementation of the agreement, thereby creating a foundation for expanding cooperation in research, innovation, and technological development between the two countries, bringing practical benefits to the scientific community, businesses, and people of Vietnam and Thailand.

This activity is also significant in the context of the two countries looking forward to celebrating the 50^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and contributes to concretising the Vietnam-Thailand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was upgraded in May 2025.

Earlier on May 26 in Hanoi, the Vietnamese minister worked with Rajpal Singh, Ambassador of Singapore to Vietnam, to discuss directions for strengthening cooperation between Vietnam and Singapore in the fields of AI, digital economy, innovation, and digital capacity development, and to encourage models for connecting technology with businesses.

Vietnamese Minister Vu Hai Quan worked with Rajpal Singh, Ambassador of Singapore to Vietnam. Photo: The MST

Singapore expressed its desire to upgrade digital cooperation with Vietnam to a new level, including boosting the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) model towards VSIP 2.0 with the application of digital technology, smart manufacturing, and sustainable community development.

At the meeting, Minister Quan proposed Singapore sharing experiences in building and measuring the contribution of the digital economy to GDP growth; strengthening the implementation of innovation programmes, including the "100 Experiments" model, to connect technology with businesses; supporting the enhancement of digital governance capacity, training of technology personnel, and sharing experiences in building digital transformation policies and cross-border data governance.

The Vietnamese minister emphasised that Vietnam prioritises the development of core technologies, improving the efficiency of state governance, and perfecting policies to encourage sci-tech and digital transformation to serve economic growth.

Vietnam enters Top 50 global startup ecosystems Vietnam rises five places to 50th in the world’s startup ecosystems, according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026 released by StartupBlink on May 19, its highest-ever ranking.

EU–Vietnam Energy Efficiency Startup Day spotlights innovation for Vietnam’s net-zero transition The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Vietnam, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the Global Green Growth Institute on May 26 convened the EU–Vietnam Energy Efficiency Startup Day in Hanoi, spotlighting energy efficiency as a practical innovation agenda for Vietnam’s net-zero transition.

Thailand's NIA positions SITE 2026 as a regional innovation and investment platform Thailand's National Innovation Agency is positioning SITE 2026 under the theme Global Innovation Impact: The Year of Investment, convening startups, investors, corporates and global partners to convert innovation into commercial outcomes and measurable economic impact.

“We believe sustainable growth begins with investing in people and building a happy workplace. When employees are empowered, cared for, inspired and provided opportunities to grow, they create positive value for both the organisation and the community,” said Nguyen Tam Trang, chairwoman of the executive committee and chief people officer at GREENFEED, at the event.

GREENFEED representatives at the Best Workplaces in Vietnam 2026 announcement ceremony

GREENFEED was awarded the Great Place To Work certification in July 2025. Based on an independent survey of more than 2,400 employees across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, 95 per cent of employees said GREENFEED is a great place to work, significantly higher than the average 59 per cent recorded among other companies.

Following the certification stage, the company underwent the in-depth Culture Audit. This assessment provides insight into an organisation’s culture and consists of six open-ended questions about trust, meaningful values, leadership, maximising everyone’s potential and innovativeness. Successfully passing this stage made the company the first and only agriculture–food enterprise featured this year.

The company follows its people philosophy of “Grow Talents for Goodness,” focusing on talent attraction and retention programmes built around three pillars: Care, Grow, and Share.

Under the “Care” pillar, GREENFEED implements competitive compensation policies based on actual performance evaluation, while also developing a total rewards programme that supports employees’ physical and mental wellbeing across Vietnam and the region.

Since 2023, the company has rolled out the Greencare programme to expand employee wellbeing initiatives. Programmes such as annual health check-ups and vaccination campaigns are implemented alongside engagement activities including family event Greenfeed Day, the Outrace sports club, and group-wide team-building activities.

The company also actively promotes sports initiatives to encourage employees to maintain healthy lifestyles and enhance their overall wellbeing. At Ironman Vietnam 2026 held in Danang on May 9, nearly 80 GREENFEED athletes joined the competition, making the company one of the largest corporate teams participating in the season. Employees were supported with months of training preparation and provided with full equipment sponsorship for the event.

Nearly 80 GREENFEED employees participated in the Ironman Danang triathlon in May

Beyond employee-focused policies, the company also provides accident, healthcare, and life insurance packages for employees’ family members, offering competitive benefits and convenient claim procedures.

Under its “Grow” commitment, the company implements the Leader for Goodness talent development programme, comprising five streams: GreenSeed, GreenShine, GreenLead, GreenExperts, and G30+, each designed for different professional groups and career stages.

On average, it delivers more than 49,000 training hours annually, with over 5,000 participants in capability development programmes. The company also applies a personalised career development model, enabling employees to shape their professional pathways across expertise, leadership, and innovation at different career stages.

To support workforce development across the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors, the company partners with more than 40 universities and colleges. Each year, it awards over 50 scholarships, hosts 400–500 interns, and engages more than 2,200 students through career seminars. For employees seeking greater internal mobility, the company also offers job rotation programmes, recruitment support, and career coaching initiatives.

GREENFEED also carries out humanitarian initiatives for employees and local communities under its “Share” commitment. Since 2015, the Empowering Dreams programme has mobilised employee participation through tuition support, scholarships, and assistance for employees and family members facing hardship. In 2025 alone, the programme’s support budget exceeded VND9.2 billion ($353,800). The company also continues its annual voluntary blood donation drive, which by 2025 had attracted thousands of employees and collected more than 1,900 units of blood.

The Empowering Dreams programme provided scholarships and tuition support to children of employees in Cambodia

The Best Workplaces in Vietnam 2026 ranking honours organisations that foster high-trust workplaces, prioritise innovation, and place people at the centre of sustainable development. This year, the ranking expanded to recognise the Top 35 companies, including 10 large enterprises, 15 medium-sized enterprises, and 10 small enterprises.

GREENFEED shines in multiple reputable rankings On January 8, GREENFEED proudly secured its spot in the Top 500 Largest Enterprises in Vietnam (VNR500) for the third consecutive year and ranked second in the Vietnam Top 10 Animal Feed Reputation Award 2024, reaffirming the company's market position and its trustworthiness.

GREENFEED receives global ‘Great Place to Work’ accolade GREENFEED in July received the Great Place to Work certification for the first time, a global recognition for workplace excellence.

GREENFEED brings Vietnamese aquaculture to global markets GREENFEED's aquafeed has achieved ASC international certification, underscoring the company's strategic and methodical investment in building a sustainable aquaculture value chain.

Timed to coincide with the APEC 2026, for which China is the host economy, Tencent will roll out a comprehensive set of upgrades across three pillars—product, international wallet partnerships, and services—to make digital payments more accessible for international visitors across China.

Daniel Hong, Vice President of Tencent Financial Technology outlined three new measures: a collaboration between TenPay Global, Tencent's cross-border payment platform, and PayPal World, a global platform connecting the world's largest payments systems and digital wallets, which enables PayPal users to complete payments at Weixin Pay merchants in China by scanning QR codes, initially open to U.S.-based PayPal users; a 90-day transaction fee waiver of 3% for first-time users who link an international bank card to WeChat, on daily spending up to RMB 1,000; and the rollout of in-app payment guidance in 16 languages across Shenzhen's ports of entry, airports, business districts and banks ahead of APEC 2026 — bringing global travelers an end-to-end seamless experience.

Expanding the International Wallet Network: PayPal World Enables Users to Scan Weixin Pay QR Codes in China

Tencent has further upgraded Weixin Pay's "Pay with Your Home E-Wallet" services through China's unified cross-border QR-code gateway, partnering with over 40 overseas wallet institutions worldwide.

The PayPal QR-code payment service in China — driven by the partnership between TenPay Global and PayPal World — enables PayPal users traveling in China to use their PayPal wallet to scan or be scanned at tens of millions of Weixin Pay merchants nationwide. The service will launch first for U.S. PayPal users, with additional markets to follow in phases.

"China is home to one of the world's most sophisticated digital payment ecosystems, and for international travelers, the ability to pay seamlessly is integral to the experience of being here," said Otto Williams, SVP, PayPal World, Regional Head and GM, PayPal Middle East and Africa. "Through PayPal World's partnership with TenPay Global, we are committed to ensuring that international visitor can enjoy frictionless payments, using a wallet they already know and trust. We are proud of what our teams have built together and we look forward to welcoming our users into this experience soon."

Tencent pioneered the "Easy Pay with Your Home Wallets" model back in 2018 with WeChat Pay HK, a Hong Kong dollar denominated e-wallet for Hong Kong residents. This approach allows overseas users to pay with their familiar e-wallet at mainland Chinese merchants without downloading a new app. To date, integration with 36 overseas wallets have gone live, with more e-wallets from APEC economies to onboard soon, making it easier for international visitors to travel and pay across China during the APEC year, said Hong.

Hong also said that TenPay Global has partnered with domestic tax refund institutions in China to make departure tax refund services faster and simpler--starting with WeChat Pay HK in Shenzhen. Compared to traditional refund methods such as cash or international credit cards, once this service goes live, users of overseas e-wallets will be able to opt to have their tax refunds credited directly backed to their preferred local overseas e-wallets, with funds arriving within seconds.

90-Day Fee Waiver for International Cards: A Smoother "One-App Journey" Experience Across China

In parallel with expanding its international wallet partnerships, Tencent continues to refine the experience of using Weixin Pay with a linked international bank card. Weixin Pay data shows from January to April of this year, the number of transactions made by foreign travelers in China using Weixin Pay linked to international bank cards rose by nearly 80% year-on-year.

Hong announced that Weixin Pay has introduced a new round of upgrades for international card users. First-time users who link an international bank card to WeChat will, from the moment of their first transaction, enjoy a waiver on international card processing fees for 90 consecutive calendar days, up to RMB 1,000 per day. "We hope tangible benefits and a friendlier experience will reflect the warmth of a host, and lower the cost for our international friends to pay while in China," said Hong.

Payment Guidance in 16 Languages in Shenzhen: Setting a New Benchmark for Inbound Payment Hospitality during APEC

In support of Shenzhen's role as host of APEC 2026, Weixin Pay has expanded its in-app payment guidance to 16 languages — including English, Korean, Thai, Russian, Spanish and Arabic — covering all major APEC economies. International visitors can access native-language QR code payment guidance directly within Weixin Pay, significantly lowering the barrier to cross-border payment.

Tencent has also set up offline service desks at key locations including airports, ports of entry, hotels, and key commercial districts, complemented by 24/7 multilingual online support, creating comprehensive service coverage across all major traveler touchpoints.

"As Shenzhen prepares to welcome delegates and visitors from across the world, Tencent will continue to advance the 2026 Inbound Payment Upgrade Initiative — refining the inbound payment experience so that international visitors can pay with ease from the moment they arrive— contributing our fintech expertise to the success of the APEC 2026," Hong said.

Carsten Coesfeld, member of the Bertelsmann Executive Board and responsible for Riverty, says: "Receiving regulatory approval for Riverty's banking licence in under a year is a major milestone for Bertelsmann and confirms Riverty's strong position and long-term experience as a leading European fintech. The license is of great strategic importance for Riverty. With regulatory approval in Luxembourg, Riverty is ideally positioned to expand its consumer finance business with new, innovative products and drive the verticalization of payments."

Andreas Barth, CEO of Riverty, says: "Financial decisions happen in every transaction. Merchants increasingly need seamless payment, financing and banking services embedded into the customer journey. With the banking licence, Riverty is building the European gateway for merchants — co-creating financial products that drive loyalty and customer lifetime value, with the ambition to become the best integrated bank in the merchant ecosystem."

Oliver Kuhaupt, Chief Risk Officer at Riverty and designated CEO of the bank, says:
"With the banking licence, we're taking direct responsibility for risk, compliance and execution at scale. What doesn't change is our focus. We operate at the core of the transaction, enabling merchants to improve conversion and cash flow while maintaining control of the customer relationship. It is a strong confirmation of our merchant-first approach — making consumer finance an additional driver for merchant growth."

The bank will begin operations in July 2026. Riverty's payment and credit unit, already serves more than 1.800 merchants with ~25 million customers, and processes more than 235 million transactions annually across Europe.

Over the coming years, Riverty plans to further expand its embedded financial services capabilities for merchants and consumers across Europe.

Booking systems built for a previous era now strain to keep up: agency costs have grown as human agents increasingly piece together complex itineraries manually, and a gap has opened between how travelers now search using AI tools and what current platforms can interpret and fulfill. This collaboration will address these structural challenges through intelligent infrastructure designed to close the gap between AI-driven travel intent and a confirmed booking.

For travel agencies and travel management companies (TMC), Travelport's platform will absorb more of the cognitive work agents currently do manually, including surfacing relevant options faster, automating exchanges and rebooking, and embedding disruption intelligence into workflows. For example, an agent managing a business traveler could surface routes with statistically lower disruption risk. Travelport's customers indicate that saving even one hour per agent per day across a large TMC translates into millions of dollars in annual productivity improvement.

For online travel agencies, the challenge is structural: travelers increasingly use AI tools to plan trips, but transactional systems cannot interpret the richness of their intent. Travelport's MCP-based architecture will allow conversational traveler requests to translate directly into confirmed bookings with live availability, converting that capability gap into a real commercial opportunity.

"The travel industry runs on some of the most complex technology infrastructure in the world, and the companies that will lead it forward are the ones investing now in how that infrastructure gets built," said Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant. "This collaboration is about giving Travelport the tools to move faster and deliver higher quality at scale to meet the challenge of a changing travel distribution landscape. That's what the AI Builder model is designed to do."

"AI is not a future consideration, it is happening now, and the companies that move fastest and most intelligently will define the next era of travel technology," said John Mangelaars, CEO of Travelport. "Collaborating with Cognizant and Anthropic gives us a genuine AI superpower. Anthropic brings the most capable AI models and tools; Cognizant adds engineering talent and development capability to deploy them at scale; and Travelport brings the travel infrastructure and the partner network that connects it all to the real world of distribution and bookings.

"Anthropic also developed MCP, the protocol that lets AI agents interact directly with external systems and data," Mangelaars added. "Choosing the organization that invented that protocol was a straightforward decision. Their approach to safety, reliability and controllability matters as much: travel is a high-trust environment where data is sensitive and the consequences of errors are real."

This is not a limited pilot. The ambition is to work with Cognizant and Anthropic to transform how Travelport builds at scale. The initial focus is Travelport Trip Services, the platform that handles bookings, exchanges, refunds and servicing, with the MCP-based interface layer above it. The work is being built on Travelport's cloud-native platform, with a major release imminent. The first customer-facing capabilities are expected to reach market this year.

"What Travelport aims to do with Cognizant reflects what modernization can look like in a complex industry. Reasoning across large, complex codebases is where Claude is at its best — and that's exactly what travel infrastructure demands. We're proud to support Cognizant as a trusted partner in bringing Claude to more enterprises," said Rich O'Connell, Head of Alliances, Anthropic.

Cognizant integrates Claude within its engineering platforms and delivery processes, including Neuro-san, the open-source library behind Cognizant's Neuro® AI multi-agent accelerator. Claude will power AI-assisted code development, test creation and pull-request review. Its large context window analyzes Travelport's codebases and surfaces embedded business logic at scale, one of the most technically demanding elements of enterprise modernization. Together, these capabilities are expected to meaningfully reduce Travelport's software delivery cycle times.

The work with Travelport reflects Cognizant's AI Builder strategy: bringing industry context, end-to-end systems integration and day-to-day operational accountability to help enterprises move from AI experimentation to production at scale. Anthropic is a nodal partner within Cognizant's global AI ecosystem, and this work extends the strategic partnership between Cognizant and Anthropic that was announced in November 2025.

The eight energy storage projects will deliver 1.5 gigawatts of battery storage or 6 gigawatts hours, a critical technology that enhances grid reliability. The battery energy storage systems will store electricity during times of excess generation and distribute the power to customers as needed to meet peak periods of customer demand. This will reduce strain on the grid and decrease the need to start and stop generation as demand fluctuates.

"Michigan is a key U.S. manufacturing region for our company, where many of our colleagues live and work," said Jaehong Park, chief executive officer and president, LG Energy Solution Vertech, the U.S. energy storage division of LG Energy Solution. "We're thrilled to work with DTE to bring Michigan-made energy storage to our communities. As more US-made energy storage projects are added to the energy grid, we're building opportunities for advanced roles in the state that support our national energy needs."

LG Energy Solution will provide battery cells made in Michigan and other US and Canadian facilities to support this portfolio of projects.

"DTE is committed to building a bright future for Michigan," said Joi Harris, president and chief executive officer, DTE Energy. "By working with LG Energy Solution Vertech to bring more battery storage online through LG Energy Solution's Michigan manufacturing facility, we're keeping Michigan at the forefront of technology and economic opportunity – creating good-paying jobs in communities while driving responsible growth, improving reliability for our customers and investing in clean energy solutions."

DTE's commitment to responsible data center development is providing a significant boost to battery energy storage in the state, making the electric grid cleaner, more reliable and more resilient. DTE has identified the resources needed to reliably serve its new data center customers without compromising service for existing customers, while remaining in compliance with Michigan's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) and Clean Energy Standard (CES). In the case of DTE's approved contract for the Oracle data center in Saline Township, the battery energy storage systems that Oracle is funding are, by themselves, sufficient to meet DTE's portion of the state's 2030 clean energy standard for battery storage.

Together, the DTE and LG Energy Solution Vertech agreement represents a significant step forward in building a more resilient, sustainable and economically vibrant Michigan.

In the same period, the platform has supported over 100 iQIYI original productions, demonstrating rapid adoption across the industry and validating Nadou Pro's position as a professional-grade solution for long-form content as it introduces new advanced features and launches its global expansion.

"Nadou Pro goes beyond generic models. It builds upon our years of technology infrastructure and deep content expertise. We transformed years of industry know-how into AI Agents and combined them with our core IP and digital assets to deliver accessible platform capabilities. Nadou Pro offers one-stop services, from content creation to operations and commercial collaboration," said Yu GONG, Founder and CEO of iQIYI, during the company's recent Q1 earnings conference call.

One Month, 10,000 Creators: How Nadou Pro Is Gaining Ground Across the Industry

Nadou Pro's creator base spans traditional production companies and independent filmmakers, with active projects across every major content format: long-form dramas, short-form dramas, online feature films, short dramas, micro animations, and advertising. The breadth of partners and formats reflects the platform's design as a full-pipeline solution rather than a single-use tool.

Real-world productions have already put the platform's capabilities to the test. All 16 titles from the Peter Pau × iQIYI AI Theater –spanning science fiction, thriller, wuxia, and fantasy – were produced using Nadou Pro, with the platform supporting character design, scene setting, and storyboarding across each project.

From Combat Scene Enhancement to Creative Assistant: What Nadou Pro's Latest Update Delivers

The latest Nadou Pro update brings two exclusive capabilities designed to address known production challenges in AI-generated content – currently available on the platform's domestic version. On the global front, foundational English-language functionality is already live for creators worldwide on https://www.nadou.ai/, with a full international version set to launch.

The Combat Scene Enhancement Agent is an industry first. AI-generated action sequences have historically struggled with flat movement and a lack of power. This agent is purpose-built to solve that problem, enabling creators to produce action content with greater dynamism and realism.

The Creative Assistant integrates a story bank of real-world case material with a cross-disciplinary knowledge library spanning history and natural science, providing creators with a tool for in-platform research, fact-checking, and creative decision-making without leaving the workflow.

The update also includes a canvas upgrade and 360-degree panoramic image generation capability. Nadou Pro now integrates nearly 30 model capabilities, including Seedance 2.0, HappyHorse 1.0, and Kling 4K, with nearly 70 AI agents developed or in planning across the full production pipeline – from screenwriting and directing through to editing and distribution.

A Creator Ecosystem in the Making: Community, Commerce, and a Global Rollout Ahead

Alongside its product updates, Nadou Pro has launched a creator community providing a dedicated space for peer exchange, skill-building, and professional development. A commercial partnership-matching platform is also in development, designed to connect creators with brand and production opportunities and close the loop from creation to monetization.

Nadou Pro's international rollout is already underway, with official launches in Singapore, Canada, and Brazil, and additional regions in preparation. The platform currently supports English, with local language versions in active development. Going forward, Nadou Pro will operate as a standalone product with its own development roadmap and independent revenue streams.

Data was securely and rapidly transferred between the TERRA-M and a satellite in low Earth orbit over the course of a multi-day field trial in the Mediterranean region earlier this month. The field trials used the U.S. Space Development Agency laser communication standard and were repeated across multiple passes to prove reliability.

The TERRA-M is a small fraction of the size of traditional optical ground stations with an optical head standing just 1.1m tall and 0.7m in diameter. It does not require an external dome, is easily transportable by light vehicle or aircraft, and can be readily deployed on the roof of a building. TERRA-M units and ground-station-as-a-service contracts are already being purchased by and delivered to customers.

"The TERRA-M is uniquely capable of rapid, secure data transfer with satellites while also being small enough to be deployed and redeployed at the point of need," said Richard Johanson, CEO of Archangel Lightworks.

"We are on a pathway to providing resilient, large-scale deployable networks of optical ground stations," added Johanson, "the demand for space-based information and connectivity solutions continues to grow exponentially, and we are pleased that our technology will play a role in this exciting new global communications infrastructure."

Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: "Archangel Lightworks is a prime example of British innovation leading the world in next-generation space technology. The successful trials of the TERRA-M show the UK is at the forefront of laser communications, developing the kind of cutting-edge products that will underpin the future of global connectivity."

"Investing in homegrown capability like this strengthens our national security, drives economic growth, and brings opportunities to communities that need them most," added Lloyd, "the UK Government is proud to have supported Archangel Lightworks, and this is a clear demonstration of what our space sector can deliver."

The TERRA-M's small size means it can easily be deployed far from existing communications infrastructure – i.e. at the "edge" of networks. Unlike existing optical ground stations, it does not need a dedicated building of its own, or a fixed protective dome. Its modular design was developed to enable broad interoperability with a wide range of lasercom standards and terminals.

Laser communications to and from satellites is a key component of next-generation space infrastructure, supporting rapidly-increasing satellite traffic and providing a high volume, secure alternative to radio-based data transmission. Satellite internet backhaul and earth observation data transfer are among the principal applications of laser communications, which also support space exploration missions such as Artemis.

The technology has both commercial and defence applications, and bypasses the vulnerabilities associated with terrestrial and subsea cables. It also has the potential to bring high volume satellite communications to communities and thereby reduce the digital divide. As compute moves into orbit through the use of orbital data centres, optical ground infrastructure will play an increasingly important role in seamless connectivity between networks in space and networks on the ground.

Archangel Lightworks' investors include Santander Alternative Investments, National Security Strategic Investment Fund, Blackfinch Ventures, Oxford Capital, Lycka Limited, and Oxford Science Enterprises. The company raised $13.5m (£10m) in an oversubscribed Series A funding round last month, bringing total funding to date to $20m.

Archangel Lightworks is also supported by the UK Space Agency, the UK's Department of Science and Technology (DSIT) and the UK Ministry of Defence. The company has memoranda of understanding with companies including Starcloud and Omantel, and a number of commercial contracts.

The proposed indications for use describe SPOT-MAS 10 as a qualitative in vitro diagnostic test performed on plasma derived from a single direct-draw venous whole blood specimen. The test analyzes circulating cell-free DNA methylation and fragmentomic signatures using a machine-learning-based algorithm to detect a cancer-associated signal. It is intended for use as an adjunctive screening test in asymptomatic adults aged 40 years and older to assist in the detection of cancers within the scope of the assay, including breast, lung, liver, colorectal, gastric, ovarian, pancreatic, esophageal, endometrial and head & neck cancers.

The FDA grants Breakthrough Device Designation to certain qualifying devices that have the potential to provide for more effective diagnosis of life-threatening or irreversibly debilitating diseases, such as cancer, than current options.

"Receiving FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for SPOT-MAS 10 is a defining milestone for Gene Solutions and reflects the potential of our multi-omic approach in cancer screening," said Dr. Nguyen Hoai Nghia, CEO & Co-founder of Gene Solutions. "This recognition strengthens our commitment to advancing accessible, evidence-based technologies that support earlier detection of cancers, especially for those where screening options remain limited — ultimately helping to improve patient outcomes worldwide."

SPOT-MAS has been developed through years of scientific research and clinical development. In March 2025, SPOT-MAS became the first multi-cancer early detection blood test in Asia to complete a large prospective cohort validation. Results from the K-DETEK study, published in BMC Medicine, evaluated SPOT-MAS in more than 9,000 asymptomatic participants and demonstrated strong performance, including high specificity and the ability to identify cancer-associated signals across multiple cancer types.

SPOT-MAS has since been used in more than 100,000 individuals in real-world practice, with consistent performance observed beyond controlled study settings. Real-world data were presented at ESMO Asia 2025 and will be featured at ASCO Breakthrough 2026 in Singapore.

The SPOT-MAS platform is built on a multi-omic approach integrating genetics, epigenetics and fragmentomics, together with AI-driven analysis, prospective validation and real-world evidence. SPOT-MAS 10 is designed to complement — not replace — existing guideline-recommended screening programs while expanding screening opportunities for cancers that lack established screening pathways.

"Early cancer detection requires more than identifying a single molecular signal," said Dr. Le Son Tran, Principal Investigator of SPOT-MAS. "By integrating multiple layers of cell-free DNA information with machine learning, SPOT-MAS is designed to extract deeper biological signals from blood while maintaining the high specificity required for responsible screening."

For the United States, Breakthrough Device Designation provides Gene Solutions with a prioritized channel of engagement with the FDA as the company advances its U.S. development and validation plans. Gene Solutions is targeting U.S. launch readiness in late 2026, supported by its ongoing U.S. laboratory and validation strategy.

Looking ahead, Gene Solutions will continue to collaborate with clinicians, regulators and global partners to generate evidence supporting the responsible implementation of SPOT-MAS 10 and its role in addressing unmet needs in cancer screening.

Important Regulatory Notice: SPOT-MAS 10 has received U.S. FDA Breakthrough Device Designation. Breakthrough Device Designation is not FDA approval, clearance or marketing authorization. The device remains subject to applicable FDA regulatory review requirements, and the designation does not guarantee future FDA approval, clearance or authorization.

For more information, visit www.genesolutions.com

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

MarsLab takes a system-first approach to AI infrastructure, bringing together hardware systems, software stack integration, workload validation, and deployment economics. The company is focused on practical scenarios where AI inference needs to operate reliably across real-world environments, including enterprise applications, edge deployment, and industry-specific systems.

MarsLab's near-term M100 platform is designed for commercial and system-level validation. The platform is intended to help the company evaluate real workloads, software behavior, integration requirements, operational constraints, and customer deployment needs. These learnings will support MarsLab's longer-term M200 roadmap, which is planned as a future self-designed silicon direction informed by practical deployment data.

"We believe future AI infrastructure should be developed with a system-first mindset," said Zhongwei Liao, CEO of MarsLab. "Before moving toward deeper technology roadmaps, it is important to understand real workloads, system integration requirements, and deployment economics in practical environments."

MarsLab is building its presence in Singapore and engaging with partners across Southeast Asia's semiconductor and AI infrastructure ecosystem. The company aims to support enterprises and technology partners seeking practical, efficient, and deployable AI inference infrastructure.

https://www.marslabai.com/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

• global forums and thought-leadership sessions,
• showcases of 100 future-focused startups,
• 100 market-ready innovations,
• startup pitching opportunities,
• Business Matching sessions,
• an International Pavilion,
• youth innovation platforms through Startup Thailand League,
• and cross-disciplinary collaboration through SYNC Design & Innovation and Maker Faire Bangkok.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Under the agreement, ACx and ALMI will share methodologies and best practices in mall asset operations, leasing strategy and project development to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer experience and maximize the long-term value of CP AXTRA's land and assets, initially focusing on seven key stores of Makro. The parties will also explore future investment opportunities related to mall and asset development in Thailand, alongside collaborative initiatives for the development of new sites and the redevelopment of existing CP AXTRA sites across the country. This is the third agreement signed between CP AXTRA and Ayala, underscoring the strong partnership and continued collaboration between the two groups, following their previous agreements to operate Makro in the Philippines and expand regional business opportunities.

"This agreement with Ayala allows us to combine CP AXTRA's deep understanding of the Thai retail market with Ayala's decades of experience in developing and leasing shopping mall spaces. By applying proven methodologies to our Makro mall, we aim to elevate the standards of the retail environment we offer, not only improving the experience for our shoppers and tenants, but also fostering sustainable growth and creating long-term value for our asset and the surrounding community," said Tanit Chearavanont, Group Chief Wholesale Business Officer, CP AXTRA Public Company Limited."

"This is another milestone in our growing relationship and collaboration with the CP Group. Through this partnership, we intend to leverage the complementary strengths of two leading conglomerates to create world-class retail and real estate developments across markets. This also marks Ayala's entry into the Thailand market, giving us a strong opportunity not only to share our expertise, but also to gain valuable insights from one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic and developed retail markets. More broadly, this partnership aligns with Ayala's strategy of bringing the best of the world to the Philippines while showcasing the best of the Philippines to the world," said Mark Uy, Managing Director and Group Head of Strategy and Business Development, Ayala Corporation.

"Makro's nationwide footprint gives it a meaningful role in the everyday lives of Thai consumers. Our opportunity is to help turn that everyday relevance into places people choose to stay, explore, and return to. By combining CP AXTRA's market knowledge with Ayala Malls' experience in curating retail partners, improving customer journeys, and building community-oriented retail destinations, we believe these sites can become stronger platforms for shoppers, merchant partners, and long-term asset growth," said Mariana Zobel de Ayala, Managing Director and Group Head of Leasing and Hospitality of Ayala Land.

The collaboration brings two complementary strengths together. CP AXTRA is one of ASEAN's leading wholesale and retail operators, with more than 2,700 Makro and Lotus's stores. The company is a regional leader in multi-format, omnichannel retail platforms across Southeast Asia and is advancing toward retail-tech company. ALMI, is one of the Philippines' leading mall operators, managing 34 shopping centers recognized for their strong retail planning, curated tenant mix, and enhanced customer experience across Southeast Asia. With extensive expertise in leasing, mall operations, facility management, and mixed-use development, ALMI is well positioned to support CP AXTRA in maximizing the value and potential of its Makro mall assets in Thailand. Ayala Corporation also brings a broader consumer and enterprise ecosystem that can complement CP AXTRA's regional retail expansion, while ACx, its consumer retail unit, adds perspective on evolving customer behavior, format innovation, and retail partnerships.

The MoC builds on the two groups' existing strategic partnership, which began in 2025 with the formation of CP AXTRA AC CORPORATION to operate Makro stores in the Philippines and was expanded to include a wider range of collaborative opportunities. This new agreement deepens that partnership further, marking the first time Ayala will bring its mall development and leasing expertise directly to CP AXTRA's operations in Thailand.

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The signature Beachside Infinity Pool now unveiled after a transformational renovation. Set against the mesmerizing backdrop of the turquoise sea, this stunning pool has become the resort's centerpiece —a true icon of luxury and leisure. Guests can bask in the mirror-like waters, which reflect the ever-changing rhythms of the day, from the golden hues of sunrise to the vibrant oranges and reds of sunset. The pool's shape, inspired by Naka Yai Island and the resort's logo, invites guests to both swim and soak in the tranquil beachside atmosphere. A chic new deck with cozy cabanas provides the perfect spot to relax in comfort and style.

For those seeking more privacy, the resort's newly-upgraded Villas offer an elevated experience. Set amid lush gardens or perched on the shores of the Andaman, these private sanctuaries have been enhanced with contemporary interiors, bespoke furnishings, and thoughtful touches that capture the essence of the island. Whether enjoying a serene morning dip or a tranquil evening swim, every moment in these villas is designed to make a lasting impression. The fully air-conditioned, spa-inspired bathrooms have also been reimagined to exude even more indulgence and luxury.

For moments of pure tranquility, Spa Naka by HARNN has been enhanced and expanded with two additional treatment rooms (increasing from six to eight). Wellness seekers can step into a lush, natural oasis with replenished tropical gardens, pathways, and relaxation areas to create a more soothing ambiance, harmoniously connected with the environment and the rhythm of the ocean.

In addition, the resort's Multi-Purpose Sala has been thoughtfully refreshed to provide enhanced comfort and versatility for guests and groups. Now featuring air-conditioning and a state-of-the-art LED screen, the venue offers an elevated indoor setting for meetings, private activities, workshops, and special occasions. This adaptable space creates a seamless backdrop for intimate gatherings, curated events, and meaningful celebrations, all within the tranquil serenity of the island.

The Naka Island, Phuket, is also set to delight guests with a reimagined culinary experience at its three refreshed restaurants and a chic sunset bar. At Aiyara, the resort's signature dining destination, guests can savor authentic Thai cuisine. The restaurant's revitalized design, inspired by the Thai elephant, evokes the spirit of the kingdom's rich cultural heritage. Here, talented chefs curate dishes using the freshest ingredients from Phuket's farms and fishing villages, telling a story of Thailand's coastal traditions with every bite.

At Veranda, the all-day restaurant with sweeping ocean views, guests can indulge in a refined international menu. Influenced by the natural beauty of coral reefs, the design incorporates reclaimed driftwood, rattan, and pottery to celebrate the connection between sea and earth. Whether dining indoors or on the idyllic outdoor terrace, Veranda offers an elegant atmosphere for every occasion., Rum Chapel highlights the flavors of the Mediterranean with a focus on fresh, local seafood and premium imported ingredients like olive oil, burrata, and Italian wines, Rum Chapel's culinary offerings are both cosmopolitan and comforting.

For the perfect end to the day, guests can unwind at Zbar, the newly reimagined social venue perched on the tip of the island. With its extended open-air terrace overlooking Phang Nga Bay, Zbar offers an exceptional space for relaxation and socializing. As the sun sets, the "Sunset Ceremony" invites guests to light a candle and make a wish, marking a special connection with the island's coastal heritage. After dark, the venue transforms into an intimate setting for light, Japanese-inspired plates and cocktails.

As the only resort on Naka Yai Island, a glittering gem in the Andaman Sea, The Naka Island, Phuket offers an unparalleled blend of serenity and adventure. With 90 stylish rooms, suites, and pool villas, world-class wellness offerings, dining excellence, curated activities, and island-hopping excursions, this secluded oasis is the ultimate destination for all types of island vacations—from solo retreats and family getaways to romantic escapes, destination weddings, and dreamy honeymoons.

To learn more about The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, please call +66 (0) 76 371 400, email naka.reservations@luxurycollection.com, or connect with us via these channels:

Website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pyxlc-the-naka-island-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-phuket/overview

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

CIITS is a national-level achievement transformation platform co-built by Guangdong Province, Shenzhen Municipality, and Tsinghua University, and is located at the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone ("Hetao Co-operation Zone"). It is committed to building a world's leading major technological innovation and industrialization platform with a global perspective. It focuses on key tracks including biomedicine, high-performance materials, and artificial intelligence (AI). It aims to aggregate global innovation resources, connect with leading enterprises, and conduct organized scientific research and achievement transformation to address national major strategic needs.

Since AIDS was first identified in 1981, 40.8 million people have died from HIV infection, with over 44.1 million people living with HIV globally. While antiretroviral therapy can effectively control HIV replication, it cannot cure the disease, highlighting the critical need for immunotherapies. Designed to enhance the host's immune response, immunotherapies aim to achieve sustained viral control without lifelong ART, ultimately leading to complete viral suppression and functional cure. Immuno Cure's proprietary innovative HIV therapeutic DNA vaccine, ICVAX®, induces broad-spectrum, polyfunctional virus-specific T cells to achieve the ultimate goal of ART-free functional cure of HIV infection.

Immuno Cure completed the first-in-human Phase I clinical trial of ICVAX® in November 2024, demonstrating excellent safety and promising immunogenicity. Two multi-center Phase II clinical trials—randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled—are scheduled to launch in Q2-2026 to evaluate the vaccine's mechanism of action and efficacy. The trials will be conducted at Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong, as well as eight top-tier hospitals in China, including the Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Beijing Ditan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Youan Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, the Eighth People's Hospital of Guangzhou, the Second People's Hospital of Tianjin, the Sixth People's Hospital of Zhengzhou, Chengdu Public Health Clinical Medical Center, and Chongqing Public Health Medical Center.

Notably, standardized testing systems for evaluating immunological and virological indicators are crucial for HIV vaccine clinical trials. However, the lack of domestic standard operating procedures (SOPs) for infectious samples in clinical trials hinders the clinical development and regulatory approval of novel infectious disease therapies like ICVAX®. The mission of this research facility at CIITS is to establish an internationally aligned standardized clinical testing system for T-cell immunogenicity and viral reservoirs, as well as identify core biomarkers associated with vaccine efficacy — filling a domestic technical gap. Immuno Cure will offer the ICVAX® Phase II clinical trial to facilitate the development of this standardized precision testing method for clinical sample analysis.

Dr. Xia JIN, CEO of Immuno Cure, stated, "I am delighted to be appointed to lead this key project of CIITS. I would also like to thank CIITS for the fully fitted modern laboratory space and the RMB10.0m funding support for this 2-year initial phase. My whole scientific team is committed to contributing diligently to the success of this project. I have no doubt that the development of a standardised testing regime would not only enhance the quality of our clinical trials for ICVAX® but would also eventually be adopted as industry and national standards for the clinical translation of medicine for HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.

Renchen LIU, Executive Deputy Dean of Research Institute of Tsinghua University in Shenzhen and Director of CIITS, stated, "Warmest congratulations on the inauguration of the research facility for ICVAX® at the CIITS. In the future, CIITS will continue to leverage its platform resources to implement full-chain incubation services. Project managers will provide service support throughout the entire project period, ensuring the smooth progress of the project through resource integration, talent recruitment and development, clinical collaboration, and achievement transformation. These efforts will safeguard the steady progress of the project."

As the project advances, Immuno Cure's ICVAX® is positioned to become the world's first therapeutic DNA vaccine to deliver an ART-free functional cure for HIV infection, bringing new hope to people currently living with HIV. In parallel, the standardized testing platform and collaborative innovation model developed through this effort will provide a scalable, replicable blueprint for R&D of novel therapies targeting other major infectious diseases. Together, these outcomes will strengthen the global competitiveness of biomedicine development in GBA and contribute to the development of national biosecurity capabilities and a more resilient public health system.

https://immunocure.hk

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.