Latest news with #GoldCertification
News18
2 days ago
- News18
Nature Conservation Day 2025: A New Era of Responsible Travel
Last Updated: On Nature Conservation Day, we spotlight destinations redefining luxury through sustainability. In 2025, travel isn't just about bucket lists and passport stamps. It's about purpose, preservation, and planet. As climate concerns deepen and travellers grow more conscious, the tourism industry is undergoing a quiet but radical transformation, one that puts nature at the centre of the journey, not just the view from your suite. On Nature Conservation Day, we explore how a new wave of destinations is prioritising sustainable, regenerative tourism, not as a seasonal slogan but a long-term ethos. Tucked between the Hajar mountains, desert dunes, and 68 km of pristine coastline, Ras Al Khaimah is redefining tourism in the Gulf. This emirate isn't just showcasing its ecological diversity—it's preserving it. 'Ras Al Khaimah is blessed with mountains, desert, mangroves, and coastline—making nature central to everything we do," shares Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). 'Sustainability isn't just part of our story it is our story." The emirate's Balanced Tourism strategy has already earned it the distinction of being the first destination in the Middle East to achieve EarthCheck's Silver Certification. Initiatives like Responsible RAK empower local businesses to adopt greener practices, with many on track for Gold Certification. Experiences here from kayaking through mangroves to hiking ancient mountain trails—are designed to deepen respect for nature. Attractions like the Suwaidi Pearl Farm not only preserve heritage but promote eco-education, offering travellers a glimpse into traditional pearl diving with minimal environmental impact. Thailand's Hidden Jewel: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve For the team at Phulay Bay in Krabi, sustainability is second nature. This ultra-luxury resort nestled between the Andaman Sea and Krabi's limestone cliffs has been plastic-free since 2017 and sources drinking water from natural mountain springs. 'At Phulay Bay, nature isn't just the backdrop, it's the soul of our sanctuary," says Vidya Sagar, General Manager. 'We believe in beauty through sustainability." From beeswax wraps and bamboo straws to holiday decorations made from coconut shells and driftwood, every detail reflects eco-conscious elegance. Guests can engage with local communities through educational initiatives or visit the Krabi Elephant Sanctuary, where ethical interactions support wildlife rehabilitation. Their approach, known as the Good Travel philosophy, invites guests to experience Thailand's culture and biodiversity from mangrove kayaking to longtail boat rides—with mindfulness and intention. If there's a model for how science, policy, and tradition can work in harmony, it's Seychelles. This archipelago has woven conservation into the very fabric of its national identity. From protecting nearly a third of its marine territory to rewilding efforts like reintroducing Aldabra giant tortoises and restoring Wright's gardenia, Seychelles is proving that small islands can lead big change. It recently became home to Africa's first land-based coral aquaculture facility, pioneering climate-resilient reef restoration through micro-fragmentation techniques. This isn't a temporary campaign; it's a way of life that secures biodiversity for generations. A Global Shift in Travel Values According to Lubaina Sheerazi, CEO and Co-Founder of BRANDit, the industry-wide pivot is not just encouraging it's transformative. 'Destinations and hotels are now assessing success not just on luxury or scale, but on sustainability and stewardship," she explains. 'Nature is at the heart of travel experiences not an afterthought." Driven by conscious travellers and forward-thinking operators, today's tourism champions regenerative principles, community inclusion, and ecological awareness. It's a far cry from tourism trends of the past and it's here to stay. top videos View all The Future of Travel Is Rooted in Nature As travellers around the world seek more meaningful, mindful escapes, the message is clear: the planet is the destination. Whether it's snorkelling off a protected reef, hiking untouched trails, or learning indigenous traditions from local custodians, the most unforgettable journeys are now those that leave the lightest footprint. Because when tourism follows nature's lead, we don't just explore the world, we protect it. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 28, 2025, 15:02 IST News lifestyle » travel Nature Conservation Day 2025: A New Era of Responsible Travel Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Associated Press
18-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
F88 earns Gold Level Certification for Client Protection
HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 July 2025 - F88, a pioneer in Việt Nam's alternative finance sector, has once again affirmed its leadership position by being awarded the Gold Level Certification for Client Protection by M-CRIL. An F88 shop. F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. — Photo courtesy of the firm This marks the third time F88 has received this prestigious honour since 2019, and the second consecutive year it has achieved the highest possible rating. The achievement highlights F88's deep and ongoing commitment to building a transparent, sustainable financial ecosystem that puts customers first. Issued by M-CRIL and developed in collaboration with globally recognised organisations Cerise+SPTF, the Client Protection Certification (CPC) is one of the most comprehensive and demanding assessments in the financial services sector. It evaluates how well institutions uphold international standards in client protection, requiring excellence in areas ranging from product design and customer communication to data security and corporate governance. F88's Compliance with M-CRIL Principles To achieve Gold Certification, financial institutions must comply with eight standards, 26 essential practices and over 128 indicators, meeting a minimum compliance rate of 95 per cent and avoiding any disqualifying breaches. F88 surpassed these benchmarks with an impressive 98.3 per cent compliance score, demonstrating the strength of its internal systems and customer-first strategy. This success is not accidental. It stems from a clearly defined and responsibly executed development strategy focused on customer needs and protection. By creating tailored financial solutions to ensure better access to capital and standardising all product information with transparent, easy-to-understand language, F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. The company also commits to a responsible pricing policy, ensuring interest rates and fees are fairly determined and reflective of the services provided. Data protection remains a top priority at F88. Customer data is collected only with explicit consent, securely stored and managed under strict internal controls. This information is then used to fairly assess creditworthiness, helping minimise financial risk for both parties while avoiding over-indebtedness for the customer. Throughout its operations, F88 consistently upholds fairness and integrity. Customers from all backgrounds, including vulnerable groups, receive equal access to financial services. The company adheres to a core principle of 'do no harm', ensuring that all decisions — from product offerings to debt restructuring — are made with the customer's best interest in mind. F88 has also developed a robust, multi-channel feedback and complaint resolution mechanism that allows customers to express concerns easily and expect swift resolution. The company currently resolves over 99 per cent of complaints within 30 days, a figure that reflects not only operational efficiency, but also a strong culture of listening and learning. Underpinning all of this is F88's solid governance structure. With clear internal policies, a strong credit risk management framework and ongoing ethics training for its staff, the company ensures that its team consistently delivers responsible and professional service. Real impact: Earning customer trust and loyalty The impact of these efforts is evident in F88's performance. In the first half of 2025, the company reported a Net Promoter Score of 73 per cent, with over half of its customers returning for additional services — clear signs of growing trust and customer satisfaction. Commenting on the milestone, Chairman and CEO of F88 Phùng Anh Tuấn said: 'A company like F88 cannot grow sustainably by abandoning its social mission in pursuit of short-term profit. Our goal is to grow along with our customers, not to trap them in debt.' Reinforcing market position and investor confidence This recognition comes at a pivotal time for F88. Having recently become a public company and progressing toward listing on the UpCOM exchange, the Gold Certification strengthens its position in the eyes of investors and partners. For stakeholders who value Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria, it sends a powerful message: F88 is a transparent, ethical and socially responsible business — an organisation that balances profitability with purpose and offers a sound investment opportunity. M-CRIL is a global leader in rating financial institutions and works with investment support from the Asian Development Bank. Through its work, M-CRIL reduces risks for financial entities while encouraging micro and small businesses to adopt best practices. Hashtag: #F88 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arabian Post
18-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
F88 earns Gold Level Certification for Client Protection
An F88 shop. F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. — Photo courtesy of the firm HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 July 2025 – F88, a pioneer in Việt Nam's alternative finance sector, has once again affirmed its leadership position by being awarded the Gold Level Certification for Client Protection by M-CRIL. This marks the third time F88 has received this prestigious honour since 2019, and the second consecutive year it has achieved the highest possible rating. The achievement highlights F88's deep and ongoing commitment to building a transparent, sustainable financial ecosystem that puts customers first. Issued by M-CRIL and developed in collaboration with globally recognised organisations Cerise+SPTF, the Client Protection Certification (CPC) is one of the most comprehensive and demanding assessments in the financial services sector. It evaluates how well institutions uphold international standards in client protection, requiring excellence in areas ranging from product design and customer communication to data security and corporate governance. ADVERTISEMENT F88's Compliance with M-CRIL Principles To achieve Gold Certification, financial institutions must comply with eight standards, 26 essential practices and over 128 indicators, meeting a minimum compliance rate of 95 per cent and avoiding any disqualifying breaches. F88 surpassed these benchmarks with an impressive 98.3 per cent compliance score, demonstrating the strength of its internal systems and customer-first strategy. This success is not accidental. It stems from a clearly defined and responsibly executed development strategy focused on customer needs and protection. By creating tailored financial solutions to ensure better access to capital and standardising all product information with transparent, easy-to-understand language, F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. The company also commits to a responsible pricing policy, ensuring interest rates and fees are fairly determined and reflective of the services provided. Data protection remains a top priority at F88. Customer data is collected only with explicit consent, securely stored and managed under strict internal controls. This information is then used to fairly assess creditworthiness, helping minimise financial risk for both parties while avoiding over-indebtedness for the customer. Throughout its operations, F88 consistently upholds fairness and integrity. Customers from all backgrounds, including vulnerable groups, receive equal access to financial services. The company adheres to a core principle of 'do no harm', ensuring that all decisions — from product offerings to debt restructuring — are made with the customer's best interest in mind. ADVERTISEMENT F88 has also developed a robust, multi-channel feedback and complaint resolution mechanism that allows customers to express concerns easily and expect swift resolution. The company currently resolves over 99 per cent of complaints within 30 days, a figure that reflects not only operational efficiency, but also a strong culture of listening and learning. Underpinning all of this is F88's solid governance structure. With clear internal policies, a strong credit risk management framework and ongoing ethics training for its staff, the company ensures that its team consistently delivers responsible and professional service. Real impact: Earning customer trust and loyalty The impact of these efforts is evident in F88's performance. In the first half of 2025, the company reported a Net Promoter Score of 73 per cent, with over half of its customers returning for additional services — clear signs of growing trust and customer satisfaction. Commenting on the milestone, Chairman and CEO of F88 Phùng Anh Tuấn said: 'A company like F88 cannot grow sustainably by abandoning its social mission in pursuit of short-term profit. Our goal is to grow along with our customers, not to trap them in debt.' Reinforcing market position and investor confidence This recognition comes at a pivotal time for F88. Having recently become a public company and progressing toward listing on the UpCOM exchange, the Gold Certification strengthens its position in the eyes of investors and partners. For stakeholders who value Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria, it sends a powerful message: F88 is a transparent, ethical and socially responsible business — an organisation that balances profitability with purpose and offers a sound investment opportunity. M-CRIL is a global leader in rating financial institutions and works with investment support from the Asian Development Bank. Through its work, M-CRIL reduces risks for financial entities while encouraging micro and small businesses to adopt best practices. Hashtag: #F88 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Sun
18-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
F88 earns Gold Level Certification for Client Protection
HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 July 2025 - F88, a pioneer in Việt Nam's alternative finance sector, has once again affirmed its leadership position by being awarded the Gold Level Certification for Client Protection by M-CRIL. This marks the third time F88 has received this prestigious honour since 2019, and the second consecutive year it has achieved the highest possible rating. The achievement highlights F88's deep and ongoing commitment to building a transparent, sustainable financial ecosystem that puts customers first. Issued by M-CRIL and developed in collaboration with globally recognised organisations Cerise+SPTF, the Client Protection Certification (CPC) is one of the most comprehensive and demanding assessments in the financial services sector. It evaluates how well institutions uphold international standards in client protection, requiring excellence in areas ranging from product design and customer communication to data security and corporate governance. F88's Compliance with M-CRIL Principles To achieve Gold Certification, financial institutions must comply with eight standards, 26 essential practices and over 128 indicators, meeting a minimum compliance rate of 95 per cent and avoiding any disqualifying breaches. F88 surpassed these benchmarks with an impressive 98.3 per cent compliance score, demonstrating the strength of its internal systems and customer-first strategy. This success is not accidental. It stems from a clearly defined and responsibly executed development strategy focused on customer needs and protection. By creating tailored financial solutions to ensure better access to capital and standardising all product information with transparent, easy-to-understand language, F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. The company also commits to a responsible pricing policy, ensuring interest rates and fees are fairly determined and reflective of the services provided. Data protection remains a top priority at F88. Customer data is collected only with explicit consent, securely stored and managed under strict internal controls. This information is then used to fairly assess creditworthiness, helping minimise financial risk for both parties while avoiding over-indebtedness for the customer. Throughout its operations, F88 consistently upholds fairness and integrity. Customers from all backgrounds, including vulnerable groups, receive equal access to financial services. The company adheres to a core principle of 'do no harm', ensuring that all decisions — from product offerings to debt restructuring — are made with the customer's best interest in mind. F88 has also developed a robust, multi-channel feedback and complaint resolution mechanism that allows customers to express concerns easily and expect swift resolution. The company currently resolves over 99 per cent of complaints within 30 days, a figure that reflects not only operational efficiency, but also a strong culture of listening and learning. Underpinning all of this is F88's solid governance structure. With clear internal policies, a strong credit risk management framework and ongoing ethics training for its staff, the company ensures that its team consistently delivers responsible and professional service. Real impact: Earning customer trust and loyalty The impact of these efforts is evident in F88's performance. In the first half of 2025, the company reported a Net Promoter Score of 73 per cent, with over half of its customers returning for additional services — clear signs of growing trust and customer satisfaction. Commenting on the milestone, Chairman and CEO of F88 Phùng Anh Tuấn said: 'A company like F88 cannot grow sustainably by abandoning its social mission in pursuit of short-term profit. Our goal is to grow along with our customers, not to trap them in debt.' Reinforcing market position and investor confidence This recognition comes at a pivotal time for F88. Having recently become a public company and progressing toward listing on the UpCOM exchange, the Gold Certification strengthens its position in the eyes of investors and partners. For stakeholders who value Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria, it sends a powerful message: F88 is a transparent, ethical and socially responsible business — an organisation that balances profitability with purpose and offers a sound investment opportunity. M-CRIL is a global leader in rating financial institutions and works with investment support from the Asian Development Bank. Through its work, M-CRIL reduces risks for financial entities while encouraging micro and small businesses to adopt best practices.
Zawya
18-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
F88 earns Gold Level Certification for Client Protection
HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 July 2025 - F88, a pioneer in Việt Nam's alternative finance sector, has once again affirmed its leadership position by being awarded the Gold Level Certification for Client Protection by M-CRIL. This marks the third time F88 has received this prestigious honour since 2019, and the second consecutive year it has achieved the highest possible rating. The achievement highlights F88's deep and ongoing commitment to building a transparent, sustainable financial ecosystem that puts customers first. Issued by M-CRIL and developed in collaboration with globally recognised organisations Cerise+SPTF, the Client Protection Certification (CPC) is one of the most comprehensive and demanding assessments in the financial services sector. It evaluates how well institutions uphold international standards in client protection, requiring excellence in areas ranging from product design and customer communication to data security and corporate governance. F88's Compliance with M-CRIL Principles To achieve Gold Certification, financial institutions must comply with eight standards, 26 essential practices and over 128 indicators, meeting a minimum compliance rate of 95 per cent and avoiding any disqualifying breaches. F88 surpassed these benchmarks with an impressive 98.3 per cent compliance score, demonstrating the strength of its internal systems and customer-first strategy. This success is not accidental. It stems from a clearly defined and responsibly executed development strategy focused on customer needs and protection. By creating tailored financial solutions to ensure better access to capital and standardising all product information with transparent, easy-to-understand language, F88 has embedded customer care into every step of its operations. The company also commits to a responsible pricing policy, ensuring interest rates and fees are fairly determined and reflective of the services provided. Data protection remains a top priority at F88. Customer data is collected only with explicit consent, securely stored and managed under strict internal controls. This information is then used to fairly assess creditworthiness, helping minimise financial risk for both parties while avoiding over-indebtedness for the customer. Throughout its operations, F88 consistently upholds fairness and integrity. Customers from all backgrounds, including vulnerable groups, receive equal access to financial services. The company adheres to a core principle of 'do no harm', ensuring that all decisions — from product offerings to debt restructuring — are made with the customer's best interest in mind. F88 has also developed a robust, multi-channel feedback and complaint resolution mechanism that allows customers to express concerns easily and expect swift resolution. The company currently resolves over 99 per cent of complaints within 30 days, a figure that reflects not only operational efficiency, but also a strong culture of listening and learning. Underpinning all of this is F88's solid governance structure. With clear internal policies, a strong credit risk management framework and ongoing ethics training for its staff, the company ensures that its team consistently delivers responsible and professional service. Real impact: Earning customer trust and loyalty The impact of these efforts is evident in F88's performance. In the first half of 2025, the company reported a Net Promoter Score of 73 per cent, with over half of its customers returning for additional services — clear signs of growing trust and customer satisfaction. Commenting on the milestone, Chairman and CEO of F88 Phùng Anh Tuấn said: "A company like F88 cannot grow sustainably by abandoning its social mission in pursuit of short-term profit. Our goal is to grow along with our customers, not to trap them in debt." Reinforcing market position and investor confidence This recognition comes at a pivotal time for F88. Having recently become a public company and progressing toward listing on the UpCOM exchange, the Gold Certification strengthens its position in the eyes of investors and partners. For stakeholders who value Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria, it sends a powerful message: F88 is a transparent, ethical and socially responsible business — an organisation that balances profitability with purpose and offers a sound investment opportunity. M-CRIL is a global leader in rating financial institutions and works with investment support from the Asian Development Bank. Through its work, M-CRIL reduces risks for financial entities while encouraging micro and small businesses to adopt best practices. Hashtag: #F88 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. F88
