Latest news with #HONGKONGSAR
Arabian Post
an hour ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Unleash AI's Infinite Potential: AI+ Power 2025, Hong Kong's Premier AI Application Exhibition, Lands June 5-6
HONG KONG SAR- Media OutReach Newswire – 29 May 2025 – Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the game-changing key! Presented by BUSINESS GOVirtual (BGOV), AI+ Power 2025, Hong Kong's premier AI application exhibition, will take place on June 5-6, 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Showcasing local and Greater Bay Area startups alongside top-tier AI solutions, this event empowers enterprises and SMEs across commerce, finance, retail, education, and marketing to cut costs, boost profits, and seize new opportunities with AI! 'AI is not just a technological revolution—it's sparking new jobs and opportunities! This year, AI+ Power 2025 will spotlight practical AI tools, helping businesses and SMEs break through in tough markets and create new possibilities for Hong Kong's commercial landscape!' The AI Wave is Here—The Future is Within Reach From AI-powered customer service to personalized marketing, Hong Kong startups are redefining traditional business models with practical AI solutions. Unlike high-end generative AI development, most applications now integrate AI into existing operations, driving efficiency and profitability in banking, insurance, retail, and more. For example, AI-driven chatbots can boost customer conversion rates by 30%, while smart data analytics can slash retail inventory costs by up to 20%. Amid Hong Kong's challenging market, AI+ Power 2025 offers low-cost, high-impact solutions to help businesses stand out in the competition. Curated by BGOV, AI+ Power 2025 brings even more surprises and innovations this year, blending Technology x Innovation x Opportunity. Join over 100 industry leaders to explore how AI is disrupting traditional business models and shaping the future, and seize the golden opportunities it unlocks. Backed by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer, and industry leaders, this event is set to attract over 8,000 attendees, making it the unmissable tech event of 2025! Six Key Highlights of AI+ Power 2025 1. Immersive AI Exhibition Zone Explore over 100 AI solutions through interactive displays and hands-on experiences, transforming industries from finance to healthcare. Highlights include:Campus AI, AI Translation Tools, AI-Powered Analytics, Intelligent Meeting Systems, and Smart Office by leading exhibitors. Big Data Health Platforms offering precision healthcare to enhance personal solutions empower SMEs to achieve digital transformation with ease. Experience the AI-driven future firsthand! 2. Keynote & Panel Sessions with Industry Titans Hear from leaders of Adobe, Alibaba, Baidu, Cathay Pacific, China Unicom, Chow Sang Sang, Cyberport, Deloitte, Equinix Hong Kong, Golden Resources Group, Google, HKAPA, ASTRI, HKSTP, H&M Group, Hang Seng Bank, HSBC, iFlytek, KPMG, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Octopus, PAObank, PwC, SenseTime, Sun Life Insurance, Standard Chartered Hong Kong, Ricoh, RTHK, WeLab Bank, and more. AI-Powered Customer Insights: Driving Higher Conversion—Real-world case studies on how AI boosts conversion rates and adapts to market shifts. Dialogue with Tech Giants on Agentic AI—Google, Microsoft, and NVIDIA explore how Agentic AI will reshape business, sparking innovation and efficiency. 3. TechMatching Service One-on-one, high-quality matchmaking to connect with ideal partners and unlock new market opportunities. 4. Business Networking Happy Hour ADVERTISEMENT Connect with industry leaders, innovators, and AI experts in a relaxed setting. Join daily finale parties (16:00–18:00) with limited premium drinks, offering a relaxed setting to connect with cross-industry elites and seize every business opportunity! 5. Hands-On AI Workshops Master AI tools through practical sessions tailored for SMEs, entrepreneurs, and professionals: Automate Workflow with AI – No Coding Needed: Streamline operations effortlessly. How Product Management Enables Business Success in Challenging Environments: Actionable strategies for growth. Gain immediate knowledge to boost personal and industry competitiveness! 6. Drone Experience Zone In collaboration with ICH (Intangible Cultural Heritage) and DJI, we present a groundbreaking 'Drone Technology x ICH Activation' immersive zone, promoting the fusion of technology and tradition under the theme 'Empowering Culture with Technology, Innovating for the Future.' Using AI and drones to revitalize intangible cultural heritage, this zone engages younger generations with vibrant cultural experiences. Highlights: Cuju Drone Challenge: Experience DJI drones reviving the Tang Dynasty's 'Cuju' football game, blending tech with traditional sports. Drone Control Showcase & ICH Performance—360-degree filming of Hong Kong's Intangible Cultural Heritage projects, featuring works by cheongsam designer and ICH inheritor Ms. Mary Yu, showcasing the fusion of culture and technology. AI+ Power Awards 2025: Honoring Innovation Pioneers Since 2022, BGOV's Tech Awards have recognized over 65 innovative enterprises and projects. Upgraded to the AI+ Power Awards 2025, this year's awards celebrate transformative AI applications in fintech, retail, sustainability, education, and healthcare, spotlighting groundbreaking solutions reshaping industries! Exclusive Exhibition Offer Create an Account at Aspire Booth G01 and Get USD$200 Credits! Discover a fully digitized financial management system supporting multi-currency transactions, expenses, receivables, investments, and loans—all in one place. Streamline global business operations and corporate accounts with ease. Limited quota, available while stocks last. Join the Future—Register Now! AI+ Power 2025 offers cutting-edge keynotes, interactive exhibits, hands-on AI product trials, and the prestigious awards ceremony. Admission is free, but spots are limited! Register now to experience AI's limitless potential with family and friends and unlock future business opportunities! Visit the official website for event details and registration:
The Sun
an hour ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
Johnson Electric reports results for the year ended 31 March 2025
• Group sales US$3,648 million – down 4% compared to the prior year • Gross profit US$843 million or 23.1% of sales (compared to US$851 million or 22.3% of sales in the prior year) • Adjusted EBITA US$344 million or 9.4% of sales (compared to US$343 million or 9.0% of sales in the prior year) • Net profit attributable to shareholders totalled US$263 million – an increase of 15% compared to the prior year • Underlying net profit, adjusted to exclude non-cash foreign exchange rate movements and restructuring charges, totalled US$274 million – an increase of 9% • Free cash flow from operations totalled US$286 million compared to US$422 million in the prior year • A recommended final dividend of 44 HK cents per share (5.64 US cents) • As of 31 March 2025, cash reserves amounted to US$791 million and the ratio of total debt to capital was 12% HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 May 2025 - Johnson Electric Holdings Limited ('Johnson Electric'), a global leader in electric motors and motion subsystems, today announced its results for the twelve months ended 31 March 2025. Group sales for the 2024/25 financial year were US$3,648 million, a decrease of 4% compared to the prior year. Net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 15% to US$263 million or 28.16 US cents per share on a fully diluted basis. Underlying net profit, adjusted to exclude non-cash foreign exchange rate movements and restructuring charges, increased by 9% to US$274 million. Sales Performance The Automotive Products Group ('APG'), Johnson Electric's largest operating division, achieved sales of US$3,072 million. Excluding currency effects, APG's sales decreased by 3%. Automotive production volumes in several major markets were below prior year levels due to the combination of subdued economic conditions, elevated new vehicle prices, high financing costs, and uneven consumer confidence. Supply-demand dynamics were further impacted by a temporary slowdown in the transition to electrification in some markets as governments rethink policy support, OEMs adjust the propulsion mix of their model line-ups, and consumers react to the comparatively high price of battery-electric vehicles. APG experienced lower sales in each of the three major geographic end markets, with differences in large part reflecting the variations in our share of content within particular OEM vehicle models and whether or not those models are proving popular with consumers. In Asia, for example, APG sales decreased by 1% on a constant currency basis compared to a 2% increase in the region's total light vehicle production volume. This was primarily due to the weaker sales performance of non-domestic car brands in China, among which APG has historically maintained an above average market share. In Europe, APG's sales declined by 4% on a constant currency basis compared to a 6% decline in regional vehicle production. And in the Americas, sales declined by 6% in comparison to a 2% decline in vehicle production volume. In both of these regions, a key factor driving APG's sales performance was end-market share changes between OEMs, which has become less predictable as the industry wrestles with several transformational forces including electric vehicle adoption rates, the growing success of Chinese OEMs as exporters, and moves by governments to impose protectionist tariffs on imports. APG's strategy to address these shifting automotive industry dynamics is two-fold. Firstly, it is to continue to bring to market innovative technologies that help enable electrification, reduce emissions, and enhance passenger safety and comfort. Secondly, APG aims to offer its customers a compelling total cost and value proposition that combines speed, scale and reliability of production with a responsive global operating footprint. This strategy is gaining traction. One indication of the strength of this model is APG's increasing success in winning new business from the largest Chinese OEM vehicle manufacturers which are expected to contribute a significant and growing share of the division's sales within the next five years. The Industry Products Group ('IPG') – contributing 16% of total Group sales – continued to experience challenging trading conditions. The division's sales were US$575 million which, excluding the effects of currency movements, represented a decline of 5% compared to the prior year. Global demand for many consumer and industrial products remains sluggish in the post-pandemic era and this has been compounded by an acceleration of the commoditization of numerous hardware goods. In response, management has taken decisive action to reduce overheads and refocus the division around a products group that emphasises standardization and cost leadership. In parallel, IPG is investing in designing differentiated and innovative motion system solutions in a select number of high growth application segments, including robotics, warehouse automation, medical devices, electric bikes, and high-precision manufacturing and measurement equipment. This dual-track approach is positioning IPG for improved competitiveness and long-term growth. Gross Margins and Operating Profitability The Group's gross profit amounted to US$843 million – a decrease of 1% compared to the prior year. As a percentage of sales, however, gross profit increased from 22.3% to 23.1%. The improvement of gross margin was primarily the result of lower raw material costs, direct labour, and production overhead charges that combined to more than offset the effects of reduced sales volumes. Reported earnings before interest, tax and amortization ('EBITA') amounted to US$331 million (compared to US$315 million in the prior year). EBITA adjusted to exclude non-cash foreign exchange rate movements and restructuring charges, amounted to US$344 million or 9.4% of sales (compared to 9.0% in the prior year). The Group's adjusted EBITA result was boosted by US$15 million in net gains from Other Income & Expenses. This was primarily due to a mark-to-market gain on an investment in an autonomous driving technology company, government grants, as well as net changes in the valuation of other financial and monetary assets and liabilities, and other foreign currency hedging contracts. Net Profit and Financial Condition Net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 15% to US$263 million or 28.16 US cents per share on a fully diluted basis. Underlying net profit, adjusted to exclude non-cash foreign exchange rate movements and restructuring charges, amounted to US$274 million compared to US$252 million in the prior year. The Group's overall financial condition remains robust with a total debt to capital ratio of 12%, an interest coverage ratio of 10 times, and year-end cash reserves of US$791 million. Dividends In view of the high level of uncertainty concerning the outlook for global trade at the present time, the Board considers it prudent to recommend maintaining the final dividend of 44 HK cents (5.64 US cents) per share, which together with the interim dividend of 17 HK cents per share, represents a total dividend of 61 HK cents (7.82 US cents) per share. Chairman's Comments on the Annual Results and Outlook Commenting on the annual results for the financial year 2024/25, Dr. Patrick Wang, Chairman and Chief Executive, said, 'In the financial year 2024/25, Johnson Electric experienced increasing headwinds in its major end markets that reflected the impact of a reduction in automobile production volumes, intense price competition in several consumer and industrial product applications, and weakening consumer confidence in the face of rising uncertainty about the outlook for the global economy, and cross-border trade in particular. Despite these challenging market conditions, the Group's financial results demonstrated the resilience of our business model'. Dr. Patrick Wang further commented: 'Although we do not expect a worst-case outcome involving the high and broad-based tariffs remaining in place for the longer-term, we have been building scenarios into our planning and operating model for many years – with the effect that being nimble and adaptable is central to Johnson Electric's way of doing business. Management is working proactively to mitigate the near-term impact of tariffs through pricing adjustments, as well as evaluating our longer-term options to relocate parts of production to different locations within, or beyond, our existing manufacturing footprint. The practical and economic attractiveness of those options will ultimately depend on what types of trade agreements may emerge from the ongoing trade dispute and negotiations'. 'Although the sudden imposition of import tariffs impacting multiple national borders is placing an additional burden on our people in terms of time and complexity, we are not allowing it to deflect our attention from executing the core elements of our strategy. Those elements include: i) driving sales growth by offering customers compelling total cost solutions to their most pressing motion-related problems; ii) accelerating our speed to market through rapid sampling, increased standardization of products and production lines, and building and maintaining appropriate levels of stock to provide the assurance and flexibility of supply that our customers demand; iii) building and consolidating production around large scale, lower cost regional manufacturing hubs that feature high levels of vertical integration and automation; and iv) leveraging advanced digital technologies, including AI, to reduce cost and improve efficiency and responsiveness'. Concerning the near-term financial outlook, Dr. Patrick Wang said: 'Group sales levels in the first weeks of the 25/26 financial year have been a mid-single digit percentage lower compared to a year ago. However, given the lack of clarity over exactly what tariffs may be in effect for the remainder of the year and how these may impact the varied and often complex profiles of our subsystem manufacturing and logistics supply chain, it is not meaningful to offer a full-year sales projection'. 'It is not simply a question of which of our products could be subject to elevated import tariffs (these presently amount to a mid-single digit percentage of total Group sales based on the US import tariffs in effect, or temporarily suspended). It is also the extent to which the confrontation over international trade undermines the prospects for global economic growth'. 'Nonetheless, I do feel that it is worthwhile observing that Johnson Electric has a sixty-six-year track record of navigating its way through periods of enormous macro-economic stress and volatility. While past performance is, of course, no guarantee of future success, I remain highly confident that this Company is as well positioned as any in our industry to find a profitable and sustainable path going forward'. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains certain forward looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of Johnson Electric and certain plans and objectives of the management of Johnson Electric. Words such as 'outlook', 'expects', 'anticipates', 'intends', 'plans', 'believe', 'estimates', 'projects', variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward looking statements. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risk, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance of Johnson Electric to be materially different from any future results or performance expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such forward looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding Johnson Electric's present and future business strategies and the political and economic environment in which Johnson Electric will operate in the future.
The Sun
an hour ago
- Business
- The Sun
Last Call! Global Startups to Get on Board EPIC 2025
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 May 2025 - The 9th Elevator Pitch International Competition (EPIC 2025), organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has only 3 weeks left for global startups with their anchor in FinTech, and new tech tracks Digital Health and Green Tech, respond to the call to one of Asia's largest innovation arenas. Participants will 60-second pitch their way to business matching and investment opportunities for a lift towards success. Supported by 20 global financial and corporate partners collectively managing an AUM close to US$100B and operating across Asia, Europe and North America, EPIC 2025 offers an unprecedented US$100M targeted funding pool, US$240,000 cash prizes, and an extensive experience for mid- to late-stage startups to grow from regional names to international labels: Key Dates Application Period: Now to 17 June 2025, 23:59 (GMT+8) Online Regional Pitch: July 2025 Finalist Announcement: August 2025 EPIC Week in Hong Kong: 3 – 7 November 2025 Mid- to late-stage startups under 10 years old, focused on Digital Health Tech, FinTech, or GreenTech, and registered as businesses with plans to expand R&D or operations to Hong Kong and/or the Greater Bay Area (GBA), are eligible to enter for EPIC. As the journey moves along, a series of highlights in the week-long EPIC Week will be made available to finalists speeding for the finish line, including Tech Spotlight for a showcase of their innovative solutions exclusive to potential investors and corporate decision-makers, in engaging instant and in-depth conversations; and the Greater Bay Area Exploration for a guided tour of a glimpse into the vast opportunities in the GBA and beyond—where complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (*T&C applies) for contestants overseas. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP said: 'Following the success of EPIC 2024 receiving applause from 47 economies, making it a more impactful event is where we're going this year, as well as more inclusive, which is why we're having new tech tracks, at a new location in Hong Kong, with new formats, yet one thing remains the same—it is an opportunity you don't want to miss.'
Arabian Post
19 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
Last Call! Global Startups to Get on Board EPIC 2025
Don't Miss Out on the Million-dollar Opportunity at Asia's Most Dynamic Ecosystem HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 May 2025 – The 9th Elevator Pitch International Competition (EPIC 2025), organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has only 3 weeks left for global startups with their anchor in FinTech, and new tech tracks Digital Health and Green Tech, respond to the call to one of Asia's largest innovation arenas. Participants will 60-second pitch their way to business matching and investment opportunities for a lift towards success. Last Call! Global Startups to Get on Board EPIC 2025 Supported by 20 global financial and corporate partners collectively managing an AUM close to US$100B and operating across Asia, Europe and North America, EPIC 2025 offers an unprecedented US$100M targeted funding pool, US$240,000 cash prizes, and an extensive experience for mid- to late-stage startups to grow from regional names to international labels: ADVERTISEMENT Key Dates Application Period: Now to 17 June 2025, 23:59 (GMT+8) Online Regional Pitch: July 2025 Finalist Announcement: August 2025 EPIC Week in Hong Kong: 3 – 7 November 2025 Mid- to late-stage startups under 10 years old, focused on Digital Health Tech, FinTech, or GreenTech, and registered as businesses with plans to expand R&D or operations to Hong Kong and/or the Greater Bay Area (GBA), are eligible to enter for EPIC. As the journey moves along, a series of highlights in the week-long EPIC Week will be made available to finalists speeding for the finish line, including Tech Spotlight for a showcase of their innovative solutions exclusive to potential investors and corporate decision-makers, in engaging instant and in-depth conversations; and the Greater Bay Area Exploration for a guided tour of a glimpse into the vast opportunities in the GBA and beyond—where complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (*T&C applies) for contestants overseas. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP said: 'Following the success of EPIC 2024 receiving applause from 47 economies, making it a more impactful event is where we're going this year, as well as more inclusive, which is why we're having new tech tracks, at a new location in Hong Kong, with new formats, yet one thing remains the same—it is an opportunity you don't want to miss.' Global application for EPIC 2025 is opened until 17 June 2025, 23:59 (GMT+8). For details, please visit for more. Hashtag: #HKSTP #EPIC2025 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) is a statutory body leading as one of the world's most dynamic innovation and technology ecosystems, powering through a future with the united force of over 24,000 visionaries working at more than 2,300 tech companies from 25 countries and regions, across multiple locations including Hong Kong Science Park, InnoCentre, Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch, and the InnoParks. From R&D infrastructure and investment opportunities, to industry networks and talent traction, HKSTP offers comprehensive support that translates innovative ideas to commercialisable solutions. With 13 unicorns and dozens of world-firsts, HKSTP will continue the momentum calling for global innovators to join the community with Keep Up spirits. More information about HSKTP is available at
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
Oi Wah Achieves Net Profit of 55.9 million with Improved Net Interest Margin in FY2025
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 May 2025 - The board of directors of Oi Wah Pawnshop Credit Holdings Limited (HKEx stock code: the 'Group' or 'Oi Wah') announced its annual results and its financial position. For the year ended 28 February 2025 ('FY2025'), the Group recorded revenue of approximately HK$164.3 million and profit attributable to shareholders of the Company of approximately HK$55.9 million. During the year, net interest margin slightly improved to 16.5%. Leveraging the strategic partnership fund established in collaboration with PACM Group (Holdings) Limited ('PACM Group'), the Group is committed to proactively expanding its presence in overseas markets, diversifying its business revenue streams, while effectively mitigating risks from geographical market volatility. For the year ended 28 February 2025, the cash and cash equivalents (net of bank overdraft) amounted to approximately HK$215.7 million, representing a net increase of approximately HK$45.1 million compared to 29 February 2024. The net assets increased to approximately HK$1,108.0 million. Meanwhile, the gearing ratio decreased from 7.7% to 4.3%, reflecting the Group maintained a healthy financial position during FY2025. During the year, the earnings per share was HK 2.9 cents. The Board of Directors recommends a final dividend of HK 0.81 cents. Business Review Mortgage loan business In FY2025, the Group recorded interest income of the mortgage loan business of approximately HK$77.0 million. The amount of gross mortgage loan receivables was approximately HK$670.7 million as at 28 February 2025. During the year, net interest margin of the mortgage loan business is about 10.3%. During FY2025, the Group has maintained a prudent approach when granting loans, underpinned by a focus on building a resilient loan portfolio amid the uncertain environment brought about by the pandemic. We are of the view that maintaining a cautious underwriting stance and healthy loan portfolio will position the Group well for the economic recovery and eventual normalization ahead. During FY2025, the average loan-to-value ratio for first mortgage was approximately 58.2%, while average overall loan-to-value ratio for subordinate mortgage was approximately 52.8%, of which, average loan-to-value ratio of subordinate mortgage that the Group participate in was approximately 15.7%. Pawn Loan Business During FY2025, the revenue from the pawn loan business increased by 9.7% to approximately HK$87.3 million, which accounted for approximately 53.1% of the Group's total revenue. The interest income of the pawn loan receivables increased by approximately 4.5% to approximately HK$76.2 million, which was mainly attributed to the increase in gold price and an active second-hand luxury market, especially for luxury watches. During FY2025, the Group continued to channel resources to advertising and promotion to enhance the Group's brand exposure. Such effort has generated demand for one-to-one pawn loan appointment services for pawn loans exceeding HK$0.1 million. Prospects Looking ahead, the global economy is anticipated to continue its moderate recovery, while macroeconomic policy uncertainties are expected to persist. The Directors believe that the Hong Kong property market will experience cautious trajectory. To inject impetus into the profit growth, the Group strategically partnered with PACM Group to establish a fund which marked our entry into the real estate private credit institutional investment management sector. We will proactively explore expansion opportunities in developed markets and maintain prudent investment oversight to mitigate market risks and maximize returns for investors and shareholders. In order to further enhance customer experience and maintain robust operational profitability, the Group will continue to review strategic shop locations and explore potential acquisition opportunities within the established pawn businesses. These initiatives aim to strengthen our market-leading position and ensure sustainable long-term growth amid evolving industry dynamics. Mr. Edward Chan, Chairman and CEO of the Company, said, 'Along with the ongoing tensions in US-China trade relations, the global economy is confronted with heightened uncertainties, exerting additional pressure on economic rebound. Consequently, the Hong Kong property market outlook remains challenging. The Group remains steadfast in its commitment to seeking strategic breakthroughs amidst these adverse circumstances. In addition to focusing on the local market, we are proactively exploring overseas market development opportunities through our strategic partnership fund with PACM Group. We are committed to diversify our revenue streams and expand our customer base, with a dedicated effort to generate enhanced long-term value and returns for our shareholders.'
