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Zhang Ziyi: the new face of Clarins Precious
PARIS , Aug. 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarins is proud to announce Zhang Ziyi as Clarins Precious Global spokesperson. The Chinese actress, director and producer is a globally recognized icon of cinema whose singular talent has earned world-wide acclaim. As part of her new role, she will champion authentic beauty, rare innovation and the exceptional craftmanship of Clarins Precious, our premium skin care line built on decades of scientific expertise, meticulous formulation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Zhang Ziyi for Clarins Zhang Ziyi rose to international stardom through a distinctive combination of strength and grace, qualities that resonate with Clarins' ethos of natural beauty and inner resilience. Her devotion to physical rigor and immersive research mirrors Clarins' commitments to expertise and ongoing innovation. In a career defined by deep investment to her work, with each role approached with precision, depth and mastery, she embodies the rare attributes that make Clarins Precious unique. With storytelling content grounded in Ms. Zhang's dedication to her craft, the Clarins Precious Zhang Ziyi campaign will demonstrate how discipline, ritual and expert care translate to skin longevity and individual radiance. An iconic partnership that honors both Clarins' skin care heritage and Zhang's artistic legacy. Katalin Berenyi, Clarins Brand Managing Director: "We are so proud and so excited to welcome Zhang Ziyi into the Clarins Precious family. Ziyi brings so much to Precious and to Clarins: her personality, her drive for perfection, and that unique aura she has in China and all around the world. She has an incredible passion for craftsmanship, for excellence, and innovation. And what makes this moment truly special is the genuine emotional connection she has with Clarins." Zhang Ziyi: "I have always admired Clarins' innovative spirit. Their deep commitment to excellence mirrors my own. I am delighted to join the Clarins family, and I'm truly honored to be part of the Clarins Precious story." The campaign launch and creative assets will roll out globally in September 2026. Please direct all media inquiries to Clarins' press office. About Zhang Ziyi Early training and debut During her formative years, Ms. Zhang attended the Beijing Dance Academy for six years, followed by four years at China's most prestigious drama academy, the Central Drama College. She made her film debut in 1998 with Zhang Yimou's The Road Home which was awarded the Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. She also won her first Best Actress Award in China. Her international breakthrough Her award-winning performance in Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon , in the summer of 2000, spread her fame far beyond the shores of her native China. She starred in the Hollywood movie, Memoirs of a Geisha, directed by Rob Marshall, released in 2005. From hence, she solidified her reputation as an accomplished actor, earning Best Actress nominations from SAG, BAFTA and Golden Globes, the first mainland Chinese actress to hold such honors. Record achievements She holds a record 12 Best Actress wins for her role in The Grandmaster, an unbroken milestone in Chinese cinema. To perfectly embody her character in this Wong Kar Wai film, she committed to six‐hours of daily martial training over three years. Leadership in film In 2005, at age 26, she was invited to join AMPAS as a Lifetime Voting Member of the Oscars, becoming the youngest Chinese actor to receive this distinction. In 2006, at age 27, she was a member of the Jury of the Cannes Film Festival Main Competition; a Cinefondation Juror in 2009; and Un Certain Regard Juror in 2013. She has also served on the Toronto Film Festival Platform Jury, and she was President of the Jury at the Tokyo International Film Festival. In 2024, she was on the Jury of the Venice International Film Festival. Artistic evolution She made her directorial debut in 2021 with "Poem" in the feature film My Country, My Parents which won her critical accolades. She continues to balance an active personal life - she is the mother of two (children born in 2015 and 2020) - with creative pursuits. In 2027, she will star in two major film releases, one of which she will also direct. About Clarins Precious A new vision of luxury skin care - rare, powerful, and rooted in responsible beauty. Inspired by plants and driven by advanced science, this exceptional collection includes luxurious face and eye creams, a brightening serum, oil-in-serum, a treatment essence, cleanser and ultra-luxe facial tools. Its signature ingredient is Clarins' exclusive moonlight flower cryoextract – selected for its +33% activation of longevity protein FOXO* – combined with biomimetic anti-aging peptides to visibly firm, smooth, and restore radiance for a youthful glow. Crafted with 92% natural-origin ingredients and housed in a recyclable luxury jar, it delivers high-performance skin care with a commitment to sustainability and sensorial elegance. *In vitro test on ingredient. About Clarins A family-owned global cosmetics Group founded in Paris in 1954 by Jacques Courtin, Clarins has been innovating for more than 70 years to promote responsible beauty. A result of ongoing research, its plant-based products formulated and manufactured in France are sold in over 150 countries through 20,000 points of sale. With nearly 95% of its sales going to export, Clarins is one of the leading skin care brands in Europe and a major player in beauty (skin care and make-up), spa and wellness worldwide. The Group has also developed the myBlend brand, based on the synergy of targeted skin care, nutri-cosmetics and beauty tech. The Clarins Group has over 8,000 employees across its Paris head office, 28 subsidiaries worldwide, two R&D Laboratories and three industrial sites in France. Jonathan Zrihen, President and CEO, and two Managing Directors, Dr Olivier Courtin-Clarins and his niece Virginie Courtin, representing respectively the second and generations, jointly run this French family Group whose raison d'être is: "Making life more beautiful, passing on a more beautiful planet". A commitment embodied by products made with over 80% ingredients of natural origin and driven by numerous initiatives to preserve nature and care for people. www.groupeclarins.com *Source: Circana LLC BeautyTrends®, Selective distribution, sales in value (€), total 5 countries (#1 in France / UK / Spain; #2 in Italy; #4 in Germany), over the period January 2024 to December 2024 For more information, please contact: Clarins China – Derek.Hu@clarins.com Clarins Japan - yumi.kawashima@clarins.com Clarins Korea - hana.lee@clarins.com Clarins Australia / New Zealand - ava.lenton@clarins.com Clarins Taïwan - anne.liu@clarins.com Clarins Hong Kong - paola.shiu@clarins.com Clarins Malaysia - micky.wang@clarins.com Clarins Singapore - gabrielle.yeo@clarins.com Clarins USA – lucas.petry@clarins.com Clarins Canada - isabelle.rochefort@clarins.com Clarins UK - Shoshana.Gillis@clarins.com Clarins France - Severine.Brezillon@clarins.com Clarins Espana - alvaro.meijide@clarins.com Clarins Italia - francesca.silva@clarins.com Clarins Precious
2026-08-21 16:56:00

Lianlian DigiTech Reports Strong H1 2026 Results: AI-Native + Globalization Strategy Accelerates Product Rollout and Adjusted Operating Profit More Than Doubled
HONG KONG , Aug. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. (HKEX: 2598) ("Lianlian DigiTech" or the "Company"), a leading AI-driven digital payment service provider headquartered in China with a global footprint, today reported interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026. Following the announcement of its AI-Native + Globalization strategic upgrade during the period, the Company delivered growth across revenue, profitability, and product development, reflecting early execution of the new strategy. Results Highlights Total Transaction Payment Volume (TPV) for global payments reached RMB 249.9 billion , up 25.9% year-over-year Total revenue grew 11.9% year-over-year to RMB 875.6 million ; global payment revenue reached RMB 600.9 million , and domestic payment revenue was RMB 106.0 million. Value-added services revenue increased 83.2% year-over-year to RMB 164.2 million Gross profit reached RMB 454.4 million with a gross profit margin of 51.9% ; global payment gross margin reached 70.8% Adjusted operating profit increased 147.3 % to RMB 156 million, excluding all non-operating items Global regulatory footprint expanded to 68 payment licenses and qualifications, including new approvals in Canada and Dubai Mr. Zhang Zhengyu, Chairman and CEO of Lianlian DigiTech , commented, " In the first half of 2026, we made solid progress across all three growth pillars. We sharpened our focus on high-value customers and captured opportunities in global cross-border trade to sustain high-quality growth in our core business. Our AI-Native + Globalization strategy drove product delivery, with the launch of a series of AI products, alongside key breakthroughs in Agentic Payment that extended our services beyond payments. We also continued to expand our ecosystem and deepen our presence across the fintech and AI value chains. Guided by our mission, 'Connecting the world, Empowering global commerce', Lianlian remains committed to creating long-term, sustainable value for our customers and shareholders." Ms. Wen Yingse, CFO, Lianlian DigiTech , said, "Despite a complex market environment, we delivered solid results in the first half of 2026 — both revenue and gross profit grew approximately 11.9% year-over-year, and adjusted operating profit more than doubled, reflecting continuous improvement in profitability and operating quality. We also continued to optimize our organizational structure and resource allocation, reducing our combined expense ratio from 60.3% to 51.9%, down 8.4 percentage points year-over-year. Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on core business growth, deepen the integration of AI in our business operations, capture economies of scale, and prudently expand ecosystem partnerships, strengthening our long-term, stable and sustainable competitive advantage in the global market." Global Payments In its global payment business, Lianlian continued to expand its addressable market. On the product side, the Company accelerated the development of intelligent payment capabilities, embedding AI into operational processes to support enterprise efficiency and performance. The Company continued to focus on high-value enterprise clients going global and broaden its global payment services across B2B trade and service trade, expanding the range of cross-border business scenarios it supports. With a payment infrastructure spanning 68 licenses and qualifications across key international markets, including a newly obtained Canadian MSB license and a Dubai Category 3D payment license, Lianlian is well positioned to serve as a long-term operational partner for enterprises conducting business globally. Domestic Payments and Value-Added Services In the domestic payment sector, Lianlian maintained compliance with applicable regulatory requirements while making proactive adjustments to its resource allocation, deprioritizing lower-contributing transaction categories. The Company also strengthened the integration of its domestic capabilities with its global payment network, creating additional value for clients with cross-border operational requirements. Value-added services continued to grow as a significant revenue contributor in H1 2026. Lianlian continued to expand its payment service value chain and deepen the integration of payment capabilities across a range of commercial scenarios, driving demand for value-added services such as virtual bank cards, intelligent marketing, and other embedded financial services. As a result, segment revenue increased 83.2% year-over-year to RMB 164.2 million. The performance of this segment reflects the increasing integration of Lianlian's payment capabilities into broader enterprise workflows, providing end-to-end support for companies in their international expansion and operational efficiency improvements. AI-Native + Globalization Strategy Delivers Tangible Products In H1 2026, Lianlian DigiTech translated its AI-Native + Globalization strategy into a series of concrete products and capabilities, delivering measurable outcomes for customers across its key business segments. Agent Wallet was launched as an intelligent payment infrastructure developed to address core payment requirements in the agent era, extending Lianlian's capabilities beyond conventional payment processing. In addition, the launch of multiple AI products and enterprise-grade agent platforms further enhanced its intelligent service system. These developments were supported by deeper integrations with global network partners including Visa and UnionPay International, advancing agentic payment applications from technical validation to live deployment. Capital Management and Shareholder Returns Lianlian maintained a disciplined approach to capital management. Since initiating its share repurchase program in April 2025, Lianlian has repurchased approximately 40 million shares in total, returning more than HK$250 million to shareholders. Outlook Lianlian will continue to execute on its AI-Native + Globalization strategy, deepening its global footprint and strengthening competitive advantages built on trust, data and global payment network effects, and empowering Chinese enterprises for high-quality global expansion. For more information, please refer to the 2026 interim results announcement: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2026/0820/2026082001339.pdf –End– About Lianlian DigiTech Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. ("Lianlian DigiTech" or "Lianlian") was founded in 2009 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2024 (stock code: 2598.HK). As a leading AI-driven digital payment service provider headquartered in China with a global footprint, Lianlian adheres to its mission of "Connecting the world, Empowering global commerce" and pursues an "AI-Native + Globalization" strategy. Lianlian is committed to building a trusted global intelligent financial infrastructure, enabling seamless connectivity between Chinese enterprises and global businesses. The Company's core business comprises digital payment services and value-added services. Digital payment services encompass global and domestic payments and include a variety of products such as pay-in, pay-out, acquiring, foreign exchange, virtual bank card, and payment aggregation services. Value-added services focus on business and technology services that deeply integrate with payment scenarios. As of June 30, 2026, the Company has established a global licensing portfolio comprising 68 payment licenses and related qualifications. As the only Chinese provider holding all state-level money transmitter licenses in the U.S., the Company's regulatory leadership remains a core competitive advantage. Furthermore, its VATP license positions it at the forefront of digital currency and blockchain technology-based financial services. Lianlian supports services in more than 200 countries and regions, enables transaction settlement in over 140 currencies, and has served a cumulative total of over 13.3 million customers.
2026-08-20 15:07:00

PASCAL launches IMPACT Program with Rising Academies and KOSSA in Sierra Leone
The partnership supports locally led education, sport and youth development programs that help young people realize their potential. LOS ANGELES , Aug. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- PASCAL, the Los Angeles-born colored lab-grown diamond brand, today announced the launch of the PASCAL IMPACT Program, a partnership with Rising Academies and KOSSA supporting education, sport and youth development in Sierra Leone. PASCAL IMPACT unites PASCAL, Rising Academies, and KOSSA to support locally led education, sports, and youth development programs in Sierra Leone. PASCAL believes brilliance is not found only in diamonds. It also lives in people through their resilience, creativity, talent and potential. Lab-grown technology opens new possibilities for how diamonds can be imagined, bringing color, creativity, identity and self-expression to the forefront. Sierra Leone has a complex history with diamonds, but its people and future are not defined by that history alone. For PASCAL, this partnership is an opportunity to help support a different diamond story, one shaped by education, sport and human potential. Through their locally grounded work, Rising Academies and KOSSA are helping young people build the skills, confidence and opportunities to shape their own futures. "Colored diamonds have always been a way to express individuality," said Adam Hua, CEO of PASCAL. "With PASCAL IMPACT, we want to extend that idea of brilliance beyond the stone and recognize the potential already present in Sierra Leone. Our role is to support local organizations doing meaningful work and give our community a transparent way to take part." The program brings together two partners with complementary areas of expertise. Rising Academies works with schools and public education systems to strengthen teaching and learning, while KOSSA uses sport and youth development to help build confidence, skills and stronger communities. "Every child deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential. Through this partnership with KOSSA and PASCAL, we can help more young people in Sierra Leone build the foundational skills, confidence and opportunities they need to shape their own futures. We're grateful to everyone helping make that possible." — Job Matseshe, Regional Director, Rising Academies "Sport brings joy as well as developing healthier minds and bodies. KOSSA is grateful to work with PASCAL to bring much needed training equipment for after-school activity to the coaches, and boys and girls, we work with."— Antoine Likound, Partner, KOSSA Customers can make an optional contribution through the dedicated PASCAL IMPACT page or during checkout when purchasing from PASCAL. At either touchpoint, customers can choose to support education or sport initiatives. As collective contributions reach agreed milestones, PASCAL will work with Rising Academies and KOSSA to publish partner-approved PASCAL IMPACT Stories documenting how the support is being put into action. Learn more about the PASCAL IMPACT Program at https://pascaldesign.com/pages/impact-story . About PASCAL PASCAL is a Los Angeles-born fine jewelry and watch brand specializing in colored lab-grown diamonds. Combining diamond-growing technology with contemporary design and meticulous craftsmanship, PASCAL explores the creative possibilities of color and transforms diamonds into modern expressions of individuality, identity, and self-expression. Through its watch and jewelry collections, PASCAL crafts colored diamonds for life's shiniest moments. Learn more at pascaldesign.com . About Rising Academies Rising Academies is an education organisation that partners with governments to improve teaching and learning at scale. Founded in Sierra Leone in 2014, Rising now supports more than 1,400 schools and 400,000 students across six countries, using proven teaching approaches alongside technology and AI to help children learn more. With 98% of its team based in Africa, Rising combines deep local expertise with evidence, innovation and strong government partnerships to build education systems where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Learn more at https://www.risingacademies.com/ About KOSSA KOSSA is committed to unlocking the full potential of West Africa's next generation of football talent through ethical management, child safeguarding, and benchmarking world-class sports development. We nurture talent with care and character, building sustainable training infrastructures as they aspire toward professional athletic careers. KOSSA Nxt Gen is community impact focused - enabling sports at schools so that at a young age, both boys and girls have the opportunity to participate. Learn more at www.kossa.com
2026-08-19 13:00:00

CANADIAN SOLAR ANNOUNCES RESOLUTION OF MAXEON U.S. PATENT LITIGATION
KITCHENER, ON , Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Canadian Solar Inc. (NASDAQ: CSIQ) (the "Company" or "Canadian Solar") today announced that the remaining U.S. proceeding related to patent allegations brought by Maxeon Solar Pte. Ltd. ("Maxeon") against Canadian Solar has been resolved in Canadian Solar's favor. Maxeon's patent infringement suit in the Federal District Court has now been dismissed with prejudice. Further, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the relevant portion of the Patent Trial and Appeal Board ("PTAB") decision relating to Maxeon's remaining claim. The proceedings stemmed from a March 2024 patent infringement lawsuit filed by Maxeon concerning three patents related to TOPCon solar cell technology. In Final Written Decisions issued in January 2026, the PTAB ruled in Canadian Solar's favor, finding all Maxeon patent claims asserted against the Company in the federal court litigation invalid. Canadian Solar welcomes the dismissal of the lawsuit and the final resolution of these patent claims. The ruling provides important clarity and reinforces Canadian Solar's claims of non-infringement. Colin Parkin, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Solar Inc., said, "We are very pleased with the resolution of these proceedings, which affirms Canadian Solar's continued ability to compete through technology and manufacturing leadership. As one of the world's largest renewable energy companies, Canadian Solar has built a global manufacturing platform and a deep intellectual property portfolio by advancing high-performance solar and energy storage solutions for our global customer base. We respect intellectual property rights and will continue to defend our technology, support our customers, and bring leading innovations to market." About Canadian Solar Inc. Canadian Solar is one of the world's largest solar technology and renewable energy companies. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Kitchener, Ontario, the Company is a leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic modules; provider of solar energy and battery energy storage solutions; and developer, owner, and operator of utility-scale solar power and battery energy storage projects. Over the past 25 years, Canadian Solar has successfully delivered nearly 177 GW of premium-quality, solar photovoltaic modules to customers across the world. Through its subsidiary e-STORAGE, Canadian Solar had shipped over 20 GWh of battery energy storage solutions to global markets as of March 31, 2026, and had a $3.5 billion contracted backlog as of May 8, 2026. Since entering the project development business in 2010, Canadian Solar has developed, built, and connected approximately 12.2 GWp of solar power projects and 6.4 GWh of battery energy storage projects globally. Its geographically diversified project development pipeline includes 24 GWp of solar and 81 GWh of battery energy storage capacity in various stages of development. Canadian Solar is one of the most bankable companies in the solar and renewable energy industry, having been publicly listed on the NASDAQ since 2006. For additional information about the Company, follow Canadian Solar on LinkedIn or visit www.canadiansolar.com . Safe Harbor/Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release, including those regarding the Company's expected future shipment volumes, revenues, gross margins, and project sales are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These statements are made under the "Safe Harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by such terms as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "future", "ongoing", "continue", "intend", "plan", "potential", "prospect", "guidance", "believe", "estimate", "is/are likely to" or similar expressions, the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, our expectations regarding global electricity demand and the adoption of solar and battery energy storage technologies; our growth strategies, future business performance, and financial condition; our transition to a long-term owner and operator of clean energy assets and expansion of project pipelines; our ability to monetize project portfolios, manage supply chain fluctuations, and respond to economic factors such as inflation and interest rates; our outlook on government incentives, trade measures, regulatory developments, and geopolitical risks; our expectations for project timelines, costs, and returns; competitive dynamics in solar and storage markets; our ability to execute supply chain, manufacturing, and operational initiatives; access to capital, debt obligations, and covenant compliance; relationships with key suppliers and customers; technological advancement and product quality; and risks related to intellectual property, litigation, and compliance with environmental and sustainability regulations. Other risks were described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 20-F filed on April 10, 2026. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance, or achievements. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All information provided in this press release is as of today's date, unless otherwise stated, and Canadian Solar undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. Canadian Solar Inc. Investor Relations Contact Wina Huang Investor Relations Canadian Solar Inc. investor@canadiansolar.com
2026-08-18 11:00:00

Tencent Cloud Deepens Commitment to Malaysia with New Cloud Region and AI Talent Development Initiatives
The new Cloud Region will comprise up to three Availability Zones in Johor, connecting Malaysia to Tencent Cloud's global infrastructure network and strengthening service availability, resilience and performance for enterprises in Malaysia. Tencent Cloud will also collaborate with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to equip more than 1,000 digital and AI talents with industry-relevant skills over the coming years. KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia , Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global technology company Tencent, today announced it will establish its first Cloud Region in Malaysia, which will comprise up to three availability zones in Johor. The investment will expand Tencent Cloud's local infrastructure presence, providing enterprises in Malaysia with the secure, resilient foundation needed for AI-powered workflows, data-heavy applications, and the delivery of digital services at scale. Bluefin Jiannan Zhao, Vice President of Tencent Cloud and Managing Director of Tencent Cloud International APAC, sharing his opening keynote at Tencent Cloud C-Suite Dialogue 2026 in Malaysia The new Cloud Region in Malaysia will join Tencent Cloud International's global infrastructure network, which currently spans 66 Availability Zones across 23 regions. "Malaysia remains a key market in Tencent Cloud's growth strategy across Asia," said Bluefin Jiannan Zhao, Vice President of Tencent Cloud and Managing Director of Tencent Cloud International for Asia Pacific . "The new Cloud Region in Malaysia will serve as a critical node within our global infrastructure, enabling enterprises to scale locally, expand regionally, and accelerate their AI-driven innovation. Through this investment, we aim to deepen our support for Malaysia's digital transformation journey and contribute to the continued growth of its AI ecosystem." The announcement was made at Tencent Cloud C-Suite Dialogue 2026 , where Tencent Cloud convened top business and technology leaders to discuss the development and deployment of AI Agent solutions for enterprise use cases. Supporting practical enterprise AI adoption Today, with over 50% of Malaysia enterprises adopting AI [1] , considerable opportunities remain to deepen and broaden its use across industries. During the event, Tencent Cloud showcased its latest AI-powered solutions, demonstrating how enterprises can move from AI experimentation to production-ready deployment. These include Tencent WorkBuddy , an agentic AI workspace solution that turns a single prompt into a ready-to-use deliverable, handling market research, data analysis, project planning, document creation, and more by drawing on over 100 built-in skills. Also showcased were Tencent Cloud's Agent Development Platform (ADP) , which enables enterprises to design, test, and scale custom AI agents for industry-specific use cases with multi-agent collaboration and enterprise-grade security, and TokenHub , a Model-as-a-Service platform that lets enterprises access, manage, and integrate multiple large language models via a single API for greater cost and performance optimization. Earlier this month, Tencent announced the global availability of Tencent Hy3 (Tencent Hy, formerly known as Tencent Hunyuan), its latest large model which delivers performance comparable to flagship models two to five times its size, while maintaining a practical and cost-efficient profile. Hy3 is available free worldwide through Tencent WorkBuddy until 31 August 2026 (Pacific Time), and can also be accessed via Tencent Cloud TokenHub and Tencent Design Miora, with further integrations planned across Tencent Cloud's AI-native product portfolio. New collaborations were also announced with Boost and Genting Plantations Group to explore the integration of AI agent solutions with their workflows and service offerings. This builds on Tencent Cloud's existing partnerships across Malaysia's financial services, telecom, payments, and enterprise sectors. For example, Ryt Bank uses Tencent Cloud Chat to power AI-driven conversational banking for over 1.5 million users, while Aye Solutions and YTL Communications use Tencent Cloud's eKYC solutions for customer verification workflows. Tencent Cloud has also brought its palm-based biometric technology to Malaysia through partners including OpenSys Technologies and SOCOE , and continues to extend its AI capabilities to more enterprises through local ecosystem partners such as Webby Group and Ramssol Group . "As Malaysian enterprises accelerate their digital transformation, they increasingly want to deploy AI to address real business needs and create measurable value," said Nucky Fang, General Manager of Tencent Cloud International & Tencent Cloud Malaysia. "By combining local cloud infrastructure with Tencent Cloud's AI capabilities and industry expertise, we will be able to work more closely with customers and partners to develop secure, reliable and scalable solutions tailored to their evolving needs." Developing Malaysia's digital and AI talent pipeline Tencent Cloud also announced a collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to support AI and cloud talent development, industry certification and innovation programmes aimed at training more than 1,000 digital and AI talents in Malaysia. These include an AI and Cloud Innovation Hackathon, a Train-the-Trainer AI and Cloud Programme and the Tencent Cloud Certification Programme to provide students and educators with practical experience using industry-relevant AI technologies, to prepare them for an increasingly AI-enabled workplace. "Malaysia's continued progress in AI will depend on our ability to connect academic learning with the skills and tools used by industry," said Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Shafry bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of UTM . "Through this collaboration, we look forward to giving students and educators more opportunities to build practical capabilities in cloud and AI, while contributing to a stronger national talent pipeline." The collaboration goes beyond introducing students and educators to AI tools. It aims to equip them with the skills to use Tencent's AI Agent solutions, including WorkBuddy and Tencent Design Miora, to create AI-enabled applications and services that address real-world needs and locally relevant scenarios in Malaysia. Together, the new Malaysia Cloud Region and Tencent Cloud's collaboration with UTM reflect its broader commitment to supporting Malaysia's AI development, from providing the infrastructure enterprises need to deploy AI securely and at scale to developing the talent required to sustain long-term innovation. Tencent Cloud will continue working with customers, partners and academic institutions to translate advances in cloud and AI into practical value for enterprises and communities across Malaysia. About Tencent Cloud Tencent Cloud, one of the world's leading cloud companies, is committed to creating innovative solutions to resolve real-world issues and enabling digital transformation for smart industries. Through our extensive global infrastructure, Tencent Cloud provides businesses across the globe with stable and secure industry-leading cloud products and services, leveraging technological advancements such as cloud computing, Big Data analytics, AI, IoT, and network security. It is our constant mission to meet the needs of industries across the board, including the fields of gaming, media and entertainment, finance, healthcare, property, retail, travel, and transportation. [1] https://www.uobgroup.com/asean-insights/articles/uob-business-outlook-study-2026-malaysia-h1.page
2026-08-18 10:59:00

Hitachi Energy invests $300 million in China to bolster global manufacturing capacity for critical grid infrastructure
Investment expands Hitachi Energy's power transformer and component manufacturing capacity and expertise in China New capacity reinforces global transformers' value chain and eases supply bottlenecks Leverages China's manufacturing, innovation, and talent strengths to support the demand for mission-critical grid equipment ZURICH and BEIJING , Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hitachi Energy, a global leader in electrification, today announced a $300 million USD investment in China to strengthen its global manufacturing footprint and address rapidly growing demand for transformers. The investment will bolster the company's power transformer and component manufacturing capacity in Hefei, East China's Anhui Province, strengthening the resilience of the global transformer value chain to help ease supply chain constraints. Ground-breaking ceremony at Hitachi Energy Hefei Component Center This investment underscores China's strategic importance to the company's global growth ambitions and supply chain resilience. It forms part of the company's $9 billion global investment plan, the largest in the industry, to expand manufacturing capacity, engineering, R&D, and partnerships, as global demand for energy solutions continues to accelerate. "As demand for electricity surges, driven by rapid growth in AI, data centers, mobility and industrialization, the need for critical grid equipment has never been greater," said Bruno Melles, CEO of Business Unit Transformers at Hitachi Energy. "Building on our continued commitment in China, this expansion is an example of how we are strengthening our manufacturing capabilities and reinforcing the resilience of local and global transformer value chains to better support our customers in building more secure, affordable, and sustainable energy systems for the electricity era." "This significant investment reflects our long-term commitment to our customers, partners, and market and demonstrates our confidence in China's manufacturing ecosystem," said James Zhao, Executive Vice President and Region Head North Asia, Hitachi Energy. "The establishment of a state-of-the-art power transformer factory and the new ultra-high voltage bushing facility, as well as the launch of the digital production line of tap changers, are key milestones in the company's presence in the country. Together, this investment will support China's development of a new energy system while meeting growing demand from customers around the world." With more than four decades of operations in China, Hitachi Energy has a strong presence with 11 manufacturing sites and capabilities spanning the full value chain, from R&D, consulting, sales, engineering, manufacturing, and services. About Hitachi Energy Hitachi Energy is a global leader in electrification, powering the electricity era to meet the energy demands of today, and the next 25 years. As the energy arm of Hitachi Group, over three billion people depend on our pioneering, mission-critical technologies to power their daily lives. With over a century of innovation, we are addressing the most urgent energy challenge of our time: driving the evolution of the world's energy system to ensure abundant, secure, affordable, and sustainable power for today's generation and the next. With an unparalleled installed base in over 140 countries, we are the grid ecosystem partner across the utility, industry, data center, and transportation sectors. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ over 56,000 people in 60 countries and generate revenues of around $20 billion USD. https://www.hitachienergy.com https://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergy https://x.com/HitachiEnergy About Hitachi, Ltd. Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi aims to be a global leader in continuously transforming social infrastructure through digital, contributing to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates worldwide across four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – as well as a Strategic SIB Business Unit focused on new growth areas. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi creates value by combining data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2025 (ended March 31, 2026) totaled 10,586.7 billion yen, with 606 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 290,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com. Signing of agreement to establish new transformer factory in Hefei, China.
2026-08-17 09:08:00

Ragnarok Zero: Global Set to Officially Launch on August 18
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia , Aug. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Global gaming company Gravity's Malaysia-based subsidiary, Gravity Game Unite (GGU), is accelerating its efforts to engage players ahead of the official launch of its new PC MMORPG, Ragnarok Zero: Global , on August 18, 2026 . Ahead of the official launch, Gravity Game Unite (GGU) has been actively communicating with players through a variety of initiatives. The company conducted two Open Beta Tests (OBTs) for players across Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania. The first OBT received positive feedback for its leveling system and localization quality, while the second OBT drew attention with the introduction of the connected game Get Poring , RO Factory , the first User Generated Content (UGC) feature in the Ragnarok IP, and the new MVP Raid content. GGU also successfully held a user meetup in Germany and Thailand. The event was attended by Gravity Co-CEO Yoshinori Kitamura , Gravity Game Unite (GGU) President Harry Choi , and Yong Nam Kim , Executive Producer of Ragnarok Zero: Global. During the event, the team shared its vision and commitment to serving players across Europe and Asia. Local players, influencers, and media were introduced to new features and content, along with a detailed roadmap for the game. Based on the original Ragnarok Online , Ragnarok Zero: Global introduces modernized systems designed to deliver a more convenient and accessible gameplay experience. Exclusive episodes further expand the world of Midgard, while improvements such as revamped UI and UX, auto-combat functionality, and optimized travel routes provide a smoother overall experience. The game also supports eight languages, including Thai, English, German, French, and Spanish. Ragnarok Zero: Global will officially launch worldwide on August 18, 2026. With its global launch just around the corner, players across Southeast Asia, Europe, and Oceania will soon be able to begin a new adventure in Midgard. Stay Connected Players can follow the official Ragnarok Zero: Global channels for the latest news and updates. Pre-Register: https://roz.mygnjoy.com/event/prereservation?media=pr15 Discord: https://discord.gg/bFg77WjcHT Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ragnarokzeroglobal/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RagnarokZeroGlobal TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ragnarokzeroglobal
2026-08-16 07:16:00

2026 International Congress of Basic Science Opens in Beijing
BEIJING , Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2026 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS 2026) opened on August 9 in Beijing, bringing together four Fields Medalists — Shing-Tung Yau, Maxim Kontsevich, Martin Hairer and Caucher Birkar — and Turing Award laureate Robert Tarjan, alongside Li Luming, president of Tsinghua University. More than 80 recipients of the Shaw Prize, Wolf Prize and Dirac Medal, some 400 internationally recognized scholars, and more than 800 researchers and students from over 30 countries and regions gathered for the flagship event. On behalf of Tsinghua University, Li Luming welcomed the Chinese and international scientists attending the event and emphasized the important role that leading research universities should play in advancing basic research in the era of AI. In recent years, Tsinghua has deepened its commitment to fundamental disciplines by increasing investment, attracting world-class researchers, harnessing AI to accelerate scientific discovery, and enhancing its capacity for independent talent cultivation. Looking ahead, Tsinghua will strengthen its capacity for original innovation, cultivate future talent for basic research, and make greater contributions to expanding the frontiers of human knowledge and advancing human civilization. In his remarks, ICBS President Yau noted that China has expanded its support for basic research through increased funding, policy initiatives, talent development and investments in research infrastructure. While AI can dramatically accelerate mathematical deduction and theorem proving, it does not replace the human capacity for creativity, intuition and the timeless pursuit of questions whose answers are not yet known. Major leaps in basic science always emerge at the intersection of disciplines and the willingness to venture into uncharted territory. Two major honors were conferred during the ceremony: the ICBS Medal and the Frontiers of Science Award. Nine scientists received the inaugural ICBS Medal for contributions spanning mathematics, physics and engineering: Claire Voisin, Horng-Tzer Yau, Shouwu Zhang, Andrea J. Liu, Yifang Wang, Xiao-gang Wen, Zhenan Bao, Xiaowei Zhuang and Feng Zhang. Four of this year's medalists are women. The Frontiers of Science Awards recognized 111 high-impact original research papers from more than 20 countries and regions. Nineteen of the recognized papers were authored by researchers from 17 Chinese institutions, including two papers featuring five scholars from Tsinghua University, spanning fields such as geometric analysis, quantum theory, large AI models, and computer vision.
2026-08-14 03:04:00

Colgate® Launches New Optic WhiteTM Vitamin C with j-hope of BTS
HONG KONG , Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Colgate® has launched Colgate® Optic WhiteTM Vitamin C, a new clinically proven whitening toothpaste powered by Vitamin C, alongside a major Asia Pacific partnership with j-hope, a member of Pop Royalty BTS. The brand has partnered with j-hope – famous for his world renowned "Sunshine Smile", high energy and vibrant personality – as the official ambassador for its new oral beauty range. Samir Singh, President, Enterprise Oral Care, Colgate-Palmolive and previously, EVP Marketing, Asia Pacific, said: "Vitamin C transformed the skincare industry by helping people's skin look brighter and more radiant. Based on pioneering oral science work at Colgate-Palmolive, we have unlocked a clinically effective Vitamin C formula for teeth whitening. [1] "The launch of Colgate® Optic WhiteTM Vitamin C represents a major leap forward in oral beauty innovation. Consumers no longer separate beauty from oral care and this product reflects that shift." j-hope & Colgate® Optic WhiteTM Vitamin C j-hope will headline Colgate's major new launch campaign across APAC to inspire consumers to unlock their most confident self. Fans can look forward to seeing j-hope bring the power of Vitamin C brightening to life across exclusive campaign drops, behind-the-scenes content and interactive challenges on Colgate's official social media channels. Samir Singh, added: "j-hope's optimism and famous sunshine smile has inspired millions around the world. He is the perfect partner for us to take this product to millions of people". Breakthrough Whitening Innovation For the first time, Colgate® Optic WhiteTM Vitamin C incorporates 95 percent pure stabilised Vitamin C * . This unique formulation delivers high-impact brightening to reduce yellowing and helps you remove 7 years of stains in as little as 7 days [3] – all while keeping your enamel protected and healthy. [2] Created by experts to fit seamlessly into your daily beauty and self-care routine, the new toothpaste combines high-impact whitening power with daily care you can trust: Removes 7 years of stains in as little as 7 days [3] : Targets deep discoloration to wipe away coffee, tea, and food stains, restoring your teeth's natural glow fast. Powered by 95% Pure Stabilised Vitamin C [2] : Uses a specialised form of Vitamin C designed for effective, high-impact brightening. Safe, Gentle & Fluoride-Protected: Non-acidic, gentle on tooth enamel, and fortified with fluoride so you can brush safely twice a day, every day. See the full content series featuring j-hope on social media now ( campaign film ) ( c-hope teaser ) ( campaign teaser ). Notes to Editor 1. Vitamin C & Whitening Claim: The messaging is grounded directly in the formulation science—Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate is the stabilized form of Vitamin C and the active whitening agent. 2. 95 percent pure stabilised Vitamin C – refers to the 95 percent purity sodium ascorbyl phosphate which is a stabilised form of vitamin C. 3. Removes 7 years of stains in as little as 7 days – with brushing twice daily for 7 days. Individual results may vary.
2026-08-14 02:38:00

Mouser Electronics New Product Insider: Over 5,000 New Parts Added in Second Quarter of 2026
SHANGHAI , July 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As an authorized distributor, Mouser Electronics , Inc. is focused on the rapid introduction of new electronic components and technologies, giving customers an edge and helping speed time to market. Over 1,200 semiconductor and electronic component manufacturers count on Mouser to help them introduce their newest products to the global marketplace. Mouser's customers can expect 100% certified, genuine products that are fully traceable from each manufacturer. Mouser Electronics New Product Insider: Over 5,000 New Parts Added in Second Quarter of 2026 Last quarter, Mouser launched more than 5,000 part numbers ready for shipment. Some of the products introduced by Mouser from April through June include: Renesas Electronics RX14T Motor Control Microcontrollers Featuring a 48MHz RXv2 core with floating-point unit (FPU) and digital signal processing (DSP) support, the RX14T microcontrollers, from Renesas Electronics , balance cost, functionality, and motor control performance. The RX14T entry-level MCUs are specifically designed for cost-efficient motor control applications, including home appliances , power factor correction (PFC) control, building automation, such as HVAC and water pumps, power tools, and other small-motor market devices. Microchip Technology PIC16F13276 Curiosity Nano Evaluation Kit The PIC16F13276 Curiosity Nano evaluation kit (EV18Z11A) from Microchip Technology provides an evaluation and prototyping platform for the PIC16F1327 8-bit microcontrollers. The board is equipped with full programming, debugging, and hardware‐level evaluation capabilities, allowing users to easily explore the performance and peripherals of the PIC16F13276 MCU. The Curiosity Nano kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with Microchip's MPLAB ® Tools for VS Code ® and the MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE), providing quick access to the MCU's Configurable Logic Block (CLB) and Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs). By implementing the MCC graphical interface, developers can quickly configure peripherals, generate optimized code, and customize device functionality for a wide range of embedded applications. DFRobot SEN0691 Fermion C4002 mmWave Human Presence Sensor The SEN0691 Fermion C4002 mmWave human presence sensor by DFRobot delivers "True Presence" automation with micro-motion detection. Traditional PIR sensors often fail to detect stationary occupants, leading to inconvenient lighting deactivation. The Fermion C4002 mmWave radar module resolves this by utilizing 24 GHz FMCW technology to detect micro-motions (such as breathing and chest expansion). Capable of distinguishing between moving, stationary, and micro-moving targets within a 10 × 10 meter range, this module serves as a reliable core component for smart lighting, HVAC control, and security monitoring in Home Assistant and IoT systems. Phoenix Contact Hybrid Connectors for Energy Storage The Hybrid Connectors for Energy Storage from Phoenix Contact combine power and signal interfaces, making them an all-in-one solution for energy storage applications. These connectors provide a reliable and safe connection for power and signal contacts, a preassembled interface for time savings, and a safe connection to compensate for manufacturing and mounting tolerances. To see more New Product Insider highlights, visit https://info.mouser.com/new_products/ . For more Mouser news and our latest new product introductions, visit https://www.mouser.com/newsroom/ . Mouser Electronics , Inc. is the industry's leading New Product Introduction (NPI) distributor with the widest selection of semiconductors and electronic co mponentsTM.
2026-08-13 01:21:00

GIGABYTE Announces the Availability of AORUS GeForce RTXTM 50 INFINITY Series Graphics Cards
TAIPEI , Aug. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GIGABYTE, the world's leading computer brand, announces the availability of the AORUS GeForce RTXTM 5080, RTXTM 5070 Ti, and RTXTM 5070 INFINITY graphics cards. Designed for enthusiasts seeking uncompromised performance and refined aesthetics, the new lineup combines the WINDFORCE HYPERBURST cooling system with a double flow through design, patented Hawk fans, and an intelligent Overdrive Fan to maximize cooling efficiency. These models also feature a STEALTH-compatible hidden power connector design for cleaner cable management, while the signature RGB Halo lighting enables users to personalize their builds. Joining the lineup is the AORUS GeForce RTXTM 5080 INFINITY WOOD, blending wood-grain elements with premium craftsmanship for a distinctive PC aesthetic. GIGABYTE Announces the Availability of AORUS GeForce RTXTM 50 INFINITY Series Graphics Cards The WINDFORCE HYPERBURST is an advanced cooling system engineered for the AORUS INFINITY Series. The double flow through design creates an unobstructed cooling path by allowing airflow to penetrate through both sides of the backplate, significantly improving heat dissipation. Combined with GIGABYTE's patented Hawk fans, which increase air pressure by up to 53.6% and air volume by up to 12.5%, the cooling system delivers efficient thermal performance with low noise. An intelligent Overdrive fan, positioned at the center of the graphics card, automatically activates during intensive workloads to provide additional airflow and sustain peak performance. To further elevate the PC building experience, the new INFINITY models relocate the power connector to the rear side of the graphics card, allowing cables to be routed neatly behind the chassis for a cleaner, clutter-free appearance. A magnetic cover plate conceals the connector, creating a sleek and minimalist finish. Together with the iconic RGB Halo and outer light ring, users can customize lighting effects or synchronize illumination with other compatible hardware to match their personal style. Expanding the design philosophy of the INFINITY family, the AORUS GeForce RTXTM 5080 INFINITY WOOD is synchronized with GIGABYTE's WOOD-themed motherboard lineup. Inspired by the warmth and texture of wood-grain elements, it brings premium materials into high-performance hardware, offering enthusiasts a unique way to build elegant, nature-inspired PCs. For more information on AORUS GeForce RTXTM 50 INFINITY Series graphics cards, please visit the official GIGABYTE website and check product availability with your local retailers and e-tailers.
2026-08-10 15:00:00

GearUP and Escape from Tarkov Partner to Enhance Online Gaming Experience for the New Season
SINGAPORE , Aug. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GearUP , a global game network optimization platform, and Escape from Tarkov , the acclaimed multiplayer tactical shooter, announced on August 4 a collaboration to help players enjoy a smoother and more reliable online experience as the game enters its new season. With players connecting from different regions around the world, maintaining stable and responsive online gameplay has become increasingly important. Through this collaboration, GearUP will provide network optimization technology designed to improve connection stability, reduce latency, and minimize packet loss, helping Escape from Tarkov players achieve faster, stable connections and enjoy smoother, more immersed gameplay. The partnership highlights a shared commitment to improving the online gaming experience for players worldwide. As multiplayer games continue to grow across regions and platforms, reliable connectivity has become a key part of delivering engaging and competitive gameplay. By combining Escape from Tarkov's intense gameplay experience with GearUP's intelligent routing technology, the collaboration aims to support a smoother connection experience for the global gaming community. "The quality of an online gaming experience depends on more than just gameplay — a stable connection is essential," the GearUP Team said. "Working with Escape from Tarkov allows us to support players during an important moment for the game while continuing our mission of making online gaming experiences faster, smoother, and more accessible around the world." Through its advanced network optimization technology, GearUP supports thousands of games across PC, mobile devices, consoles, and supported routers. The platform continuously optimizes network routes to help players adapt to changing internet conditions and enjoy more consistent online experiences.. To celebrate the collaboration, GearUP will provide free network acceleration for Escape from Tarkov from August 4 through August 11, 2026 (UTC) . During this period, players can access GearUP's optimization service for the game without an active membership. Players can learn more about the dedicated Escape from Tarkov network optimization service and experience improved connectivity throughout the new season. About GearUP GearUP is a global game network optimization platform dedicated to improving online gaming experiences through intelligent routing technology. Supporting thousands of games across multiple platforms, GearUP helps players achieve faster, more stable connections and enjoy smoother gameplay worldwide. Contact business@gearupbooster.com
2026-08-09 13:00:00

Sri Lanka deploys troops to contain growing prison unrest

Colombo: Sri Lanka deployed troops to its main maximum-security prison in Colombo and two other jails on Friday, following unsuccessful breakout attempts in which three inmates were killed and 23 wounded, a government minister said.

Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala said an inmate was killed and 10 others wounded after guards thwarted an attempt by about 40 convicts to escape from Colombo's maximum-security Welikada Prison on Thursday night.

Sri Lankan jails have been hit by a spate of unrest in recent weeks, with 10 guards and 23 inmates killed in two separate riots at two other prisons outside Colombo since last month.

Officials have attributed the growing unrest to acute overcrowding. Sri Lanka's prisons hold about four times their intended capacity.

Wijepala told parliament that the situation at the Welikada jail had been brought under control, but similar unrest was reported at another prison in Kuruwita, about 80 kilometres (50 miles) southeast of Colombo.

Two inmates were killed and another 13 wounded at Kuruwita, he said.

"Security forces have been deployed at that prison too and order has been restored," Wijepala said.

Unrest was also reported at a prison in Pallansena, north of Colombo, where 30 inmates climbed onto the roof and refused to return to their cells after breakfast on Friday.

"We see a pattern in these incidents and suspect a conspiracy," Wijepala told parliament, without giving further details.

Authorities announced plans last month to convert disused state buildings into prisons, but new facilities have yet to be added.

More than three-quarters of inmates in Sri Lanka are remand prisoners awaiting trial, with most being held in connection with drug offences.


2026-08-07 09:06:43

Yum China Completes the Acquisition of Ownership of the Pizza Hut Brand in Mainland China
SHANGHAI , Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Yum China") (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987) today announced that it has completed the acquisition of the ownership of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China from Yum! Brands, Inc. ("Yum! Brands") (NYSE: YUM) for US$1.2 billion. The acquisition was first announced on June 16, 2026. Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China, said, "Becoming the owner of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China is a major breakthrough for us, after operating the brand in the market for 36 years. In the near term, the savings in license fee payments to Yum! Brands are expected to make Pizza Hut's restaurant margin closer to KFC's. This should enable more potential new stores to meet our payback goal of 2-3 years. Over the longer term, we expect that brand ownership will give us greater strategic flexibility and allow us to respond more nimbly to market opportunities and consumer needs. In 2027 and 2028, we expect to accelerate Pizza Hut's net new store openings from the original target of over 600 to more than 800 per year." The savings of the 3% license fee payments to Yum! Brands is expected to add 2.8% to Pizza Hut's restaurant and OP margins net of VAT. After accounting for deal-related costs, interest and financing expenses, taxes, and without considering potential higher growth of Pizza Hut, the deal is expected to be accretive to diluted EPS – slightly accretive in 2026, and mid-single-digit accretive in 2027 and 2028. To fund this transaction, the Company secured an offshore RMB-denominated bridge loan, equivalent to approximately US$1.2 billion, with a tenor of up to 12 months and an interest rate of around 2%. For longer-term financing, all options remain under consideration. The Company will evaluate its financing plans in light of market conditions and capital requirements, with the objective of acting in the best interests of its shareholders. For more information, see the original announcement about the transaction: https://ir.yumchina.com/news-releases/news-release-details/yum-china-acquire-ownership-pizza-hut-brand-mainland-china Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements relating to future strategies, growth, business plans, restaurant expansion plans and operating profit targets, the expected benefits and impact of the acquisition of ownership of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China from Yum! Brands, Inc. (the "Transaction") and related financing (including plans for long-term financing), including expected license-fee savings, expected margin benefits, expected EPS accretion, and potential long-term value creation. We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as "expect," "expectation," "believe," "anticipate," "may," "could," "intend," "belief," "plan," "estimate," "target," "predict," "project," "likely," "will," "continue," "should," "forecast," "outlook," "commit" or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's future strategies, growth, business plans, restaurant expansion plans, operating profit targets, the expected benefits and impact of the Transaction and related financing (including plans for long-term financing), including expected license-fee savings, expected margin benefits, expected EPS accretion, and potential long-term value creation. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, risks related to the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Transaction, including the risk that the transition of brand ownership disrupts operations; risks related to the availability, terms and cost of long-term debt financing to refinance the bridge loan, including interest rate and currency exchange fluctuations; transaction costs, tax and accounting treatment, changes in consumer demand or competitive conditions, failure to achieve anticipated license-fee savings, margin benefits, or EPS accretion; risks related to the ability to open new restaurants at the anticipated pace and achieve targeted payback periods; and risks that the Transaction may not result in the anticipated long-term value creation. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results. About Yum China Holdings, Inc. Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company operates over 19,000 restaurants under six brands across over 2,700 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. The Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China is now owned by Yum China. In addition, Yum China has partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain, which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world's most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit https://ir.yumchina.com/ . Contacts Investor Relations Contact: Tel: +86 21 2407 7556 IR@YumChina.com Media Contact: Tel: +86 21 2407 3824 Media@YumChina.com
2026-08-07 09:00:00

Narwal Launches New Freo 20, Bringing Flagship Real-Time Self-Cleaning Mopping to More Homes with a Distinctive Woven-Textured Finish
The Freo 20 Combines FlowWash Mopping System and Industry-First Dock Design with a Limited-Time Launch Price of $899.99, Marking the Strategic Adjustment of Its Classic Freo Series NEW YORK , Aug. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Narwal , a global leader in smart home cleaning, today announced the launch of Narwal Freo 20, the first Freo Series model equipped with Narwal's FlowWash Mopping System. Marking a strategic evolution of the Freo lineup, Freo 20 brings Narwal's flagship-level mopping innovation to a broader consumer audience. Combining advanced cleaning performance with AI-powered obstacle avoidance and the market's only woven-texture base station design, Freo 20 continues the Freo series' commitment to delivering intelligent cleaning solutions for diverse household needs while expanding access to Narwal's latest innovations. Narwal Freo 20 robot vacuum and its woven-texture dock are showcased in a bright home setting. Freo 20: At a Glance Flagship-Grade Real-Time Self-Cleaning : Premium FlowWash Mopping System continuously washes the flattened roller mop mid-cycle, instantly extracting dirt to prevent cross-contamination and eliminate water marks. Advanced Onboard AI and Camera System: Dual RGB cameras and AI processing help identify 300+ household objects and navigate efficiently. Smart Whole-Home Coverage : Supported by flagship-level 31,000 Pa suction power, the DualFlow Tangle-Free System and EdgeReach Technology target homes with long hair and pets to deliver a deep clean in hard-to-reach areas Woven-Texture Dock Design: A fabric-inspired design blends naturally into modern homes. "The new gold standard in home robotics is a clean that happens entirely in the background," said Junbin Zhang, CEO of Narwal. "The Narwal Freo 20 marks an important step in the evolution of our Freo series, introducing our advanced self-cleaning technology and new refined aesthetic to a broader range of consumers. We're proving that forward-thinking innovation is no longer exclusive to flagship models, but a new standard for everyday homes." Flagship-Grade FlowWash Mopping System As Narwal's foundational robot vacuum lineup, the Freo series has been built around addressing diverse household cleaning needs across different price points through advanced technologies and tailored cleaning experiences. The Freo 20 brings Narwal's flagship FlowWash Mopping System into this classic lineup for the first time, while making it significantly more affordable to all consumers. When the robot's cameras detect areas that need mopping, the flattened roller mop, or track mop, automatically engages with 12 N of downward pressure , rotating against the direction of movement to maximize scrubbing power and effectively remove stubborn stains and dirt. During cleaning, 140°F fresh water is sprayed on the mop through 16 nozzles for thorough cleaning, while a built-in scraper and high-pressure air pump instantly extract residual dirt into a separate tank. This real-time self-cleaning system can significantly keep the mop hygienic throughout each task, rather than spreading dirt as most traditional spinning mops do. Compared with standard roller mops, its flattened design provides more even pressure across a contact area seven times larger [1] , while reducing hair tangles and minimizing maintenance. The production of this advanced mop demands ensuring the stable coordination of the two internal axes that work together to keep the flattened roller mop consistently tensioned and rotating smoothly. Narwal's research team successfully overcame these challenges, bringing the technology to the Freo 20 and making it more accessible compared with the brand's flagship models. Intelligent Technology for Whole-Home Cleaning Powered by the NarMind TM Pro Autonomous System , the Freo 20 identifies and maneuvers around over 300 household objects. The TwinAI Dodge TM technology delivers 99% [2] obstacle-avoidance accuracy for a completely uninterrupted clean. Beyond basic navigation, the system introduces intuitive, family-first features. Pet Care Mode dynamically adjusts cleaning around pet zones and offers interactive video monitoring, while Baby Care Mode recognizes cribs and toys to trigger quiet, low-noise cleaning that protects your child's rest. Combined with the intelligent navigation, Freo 20 delivers comprehensive whole-home cleaning with flagship-level 31,000 Pa suction power, an SGS-certified DualFlow Tangle-Free System to prevent hair tangles, and EdgeReach Technology to clean hard-to-reach corners and edges. Effortless Experience and Refined Design Designed to naturally integrate into modern interiors, the Freo 20 reimagines the All-in-One Multifunctional Dock to capture the essence of modern aesthetics. Showcasing an upscale woven design, this new fabric-inspired exterior seamlessly blends with fabric furniture and wood textures while softening sharp stone elements to deliver an elegant look that matches its flagship performance. Beyond its premium design, the dock minimizes manual maintenance with a thorough four-stage cleaning process that culminates in a high-temperature wash up to 212°F to hygienically clean the entire internal pathway. It then uses 140°F hot-air drying to quickly remove moisture and prevent damp odors. The quieter auto-emptying system combined with a 2.4 L bag enables up to 120 days of completely hands-off, maintenance-free operation. The Future of the Freo Series Building on a legacy of highly effective smart home cleaning, the Freo series is experiencing a strategic evolution. While previously dedicated to providing diverse combinations of cleaning solutions and price points, the lineup will focus on delivering more accessible choices with the same premium and high-quality standards, leading with the Freo 20. Pricing and Availability The Narwal Freo 20 will be officially available in the U.S. on August 20, 2026, on the official website and at Amazon. MSRP: $1099.99 Launch Price: $899.99 (Limited-time offer. Available from August 20 to September 3). About Narwal Narwal is dedicated to developing innovative products that transform daily life. Our range of solutions addresses common challenges, with a focus on understanding and meeting user needs through extensive R&D. This commitment has yielded industry firsts such as the Auto-washing mop, AI-powered DirtSenseTM, and the DualFlow Tangle-Free System. We obsess over every detail to ensure our products are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, aiming to blend design and performance for a better daily life. As a top-five global vacuum brand, Narwal serves over 5 million users across 30 countries, including North America, South Korea, Germany, and Australia. Our innovations have been honored with awards such as the CES Innovation Awards, the Edison Gold Award, and Time Magazine's Best Inventions. Note [1] The "seven times larger" claim refers to the floor contact area covered by the robot within the same period of time, compared with the standard roller mop used in the test. The actual laboratory test result is 6.67 times larger. Data is based on testing conducted in the Narwal laboratory under specific test conditions. Actual performance may vary depending on real-world environments. [2] The "99% recognition accuracy" refers to the average object recognition accuracy evaluated across a test set of common household objects, including pets, pet waste, trash bags, cables, furniture, slippers, clothing items, tissues, and bathroom objects. Data is based on testing conducted in the Narwal laboratory under specific test conditions. Actual performance may vary depending on real-world environments. Contact: Dede Liu xichen.liu@narwal.com +86-18719115391
2026-08-06 07:00:00

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