UrCove by HYATT Hangzhou Xiaoshan Jiangnan Technology City-Tourism news

NextFin Asia: A New Dedicated Fund for the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program to Further Scale Inclusive Finance Fintechs in ASEAN

Deepening Luxembourg–ASEAN collaboration to mobilize capital for high-impact financial inclusion. The Luxembourg Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia acceleration program will now be supported by NextFin Asia, a newly established dedicated fund launched in partnership with the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade (MFA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). LUXEMBOURG and SINGAPORE, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Luxembourg House of Financial Technology (LHoFT) announces a major evolution of the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia program with the launch of its first dedicated investment fund, delivered through NextFin Asia. Launched in partnership with the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade (MFA), and ADB Ventures, the venture capital arm of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia 3.0 aims to strengthen Luxembourg's role in supporting scalable fintech solutions across Southeast Asia. NextFin Asia: A New Dedicated Fund for the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program to Further Scale Inclusive Finance Fintechs in ASEAN. After proving the model in its first two editions, the third edition of Catapult SE Asia will change the game. By introducing direct funding, the program evolves from a pure acceleration initiative into a regional platform that combines capital, expertise, and market access to support fintechs tackling development and financial inclusion challenges across ASEAN. From Acceleration to Funding: A New Chapter Building on the success of its previous editions, Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia 3.0 will support a selected cohort of high-potential fintech startups operating across ASEAN. For the first time, participating startups will benefit not only from tailored acceleration, mentorship and institutional partnerships, but also from direct investment opportunities through the newly launched NextFin Asia Fund, designed to finance and support founders to scale faster and more sustainably. Beyond capital, Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia 3.0 graduates will gain tailored strategic guidance and critical deployment support to help accelerate their market access, enhance brand visibility and strengthen impact measurement to ensure effective scaling. The 2026 edition will unfold across two key global and regional milestones: June 2026 – Luxembourg, marking the official global launch and institutional engagement phase in one of the main Financial hubs in the world. November 2026 – Singapore FinTech Festival, positioning Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia at the heart of the region's fintech ecosystem. A Strategic Partnership for Regional Impact The collaboration between the MFA, ADB, and the LHoFT Foundation reflects a shared commitment to fostering inclusive, resilient and innovative financial ecosystems in Southeast Asia. ADB brings deep regional expertise, development finance capabilities and a strong focus on scalable, impact-driven innovation. Combined with Luxembourg's long-standing leadership in sustainable finance and fintech innovation, the partnership creates a powerful platform to support startups addressing challenges in financial inclusion, climate finance, SME finance, digital infrastructure and beyond. ADB plays a critical role in advancing inclusive growth across Asia and the Pacific through loans, grants and technical assistance, supporting countries where access to finance remains a key barrier to development. ADB Ventures, as ADB's venture arm, complements this mission by investing in early-stage technology companies whose breakthrough innovations have strong potential to scale and create development impact. Luxembourg's Commitment to Inclusive Finance and Innovation Luxembourg continues to be a global leader in sustainable and inclusive finance, allocating 1% of its Gross National Income to Official Development Assistance and hosting a significant share of the world's microfinance and impact investment vehicles. Through Luxembourg's value chain, know-how, expertise, and major financial stakeholders, Catapult SE Asia builds on this foundation, reinforcing Luxembourg's position as a major financial hub connecting capital, innovation, and development impact. Since its inception, the Catapult program has supported 115 fintechs from emerging markets across Africa and Asia, helping them scale solutions that serve underbanked communities and strengthen financial systems. Voices from the Partnership Quote from the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade (MFA) "Luxembourg has long established itself as a center for sustainable and innovative finance. I am pleased about this new partnership with the LHoFT and ADB Ventures, which brings together Luxembourg's financial expertise, regional insight and investment capacity to scale inclusive innovation across Southeast Asia. Through the NextFin Asia programme, we are supporting local entrepreneurs and start-ups, while using public investment strategically to mobilise private capital alongside it. This is how strong partnerships, through innovation, translate into tangible impact on the ground," said Xavier Bettel, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs. Quote From ADB: "Through this partnership with the Luxembourg MFA and the LHoFT Foundation, we are combining catalytic capital with market‑readiness support to help fintech founders scale solutions that advance financial inclusion across Southeast Asia. NextFin Asia strengthens our shared commitment to expanding access to finance for MSMEs and underserved communities in the region," said Isabel Chatterton, Director General of ADB's Private Sector Operations Department. Quote from the LHoFT Foundation "It's a World first initiative. A Development Bank partnering with a Fintech Accelerator, to drive financial inclusion and social impact, by investing first hand in innovative fintechs, it's bold, it's unique. The NextFin Asia Fund is the result of the trust from Luxembourg's Government and ADB's towards the Catapult SE Asia program. And it definitely reflects the amazing quality of the entrepreneurs and partners taking part in it. I am confident that NextFin Asia will become the key catalyst for inclusive finance and innovation in Asia. And we are very excited at the LHoFT to take part in such an endeavor," said Alex Panican, Deputy CEO of the Luxembourg House of Financial Technology - LHoFT. A Program Designed to Scale Impact Catapult SE Asia 3.0 will offer: Tailored acceleration and mentoring Direct access to institutional partners and regional stakeholders Exposure to investors and potential co-investors Investment opportunities through the NextFin Asia Fund The program continues to act as a bridge between Southeast Asia and Europe, fostering cross-regional collaboration and enabling fintechs to scale solutions that address the needs of underserved populations. Applications Fintech startups actively operating in or targeting Southeast Asia are invited to apply. Eligible sectors include (but are not limited to): Digital Payments, Financial Inclusion, Climate and Green Finance, InsurTech, AgriTech, SME Finance, RegTech and Digital Infrastructure. Applicants must be based in or active within ASEAN countries, with business stages ranging from MVP to growth-stage companies. Funding stages from pre-seed to Series A are accepted. Application details and timeline will be announced soon. For updates, follow us on LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/company/the-lhoft APPLY HERE: https://lhoft.com/programs/catapult-acceleration-programs/catapult-financial-inclusion/catapult-inclusion-asia/3rd-edition-2026-asia/ Follow us on LinkedIn for updates throughout the program:www.linkedin.com/company/the-lhoft About the LHoFT Foundation The LHoFT Foundation is a public-private sector initiative that drives technology innovation for Luxembourg's financial services industry, connecting the domestic and international fintech community to develop solutions that shape the world of tomorrow. The LHoFT Foundation offers an innovation platform that provides fintech startups with access to talent, expertise, funding, and market opportunities. The LHoFT Foundation also works with government agencies, regulators, and industry associations to foster a supportive and inclusive fintech ecosystem in Luxembourg. For more information, please visit: https://lhoft.com/ About the Asian Development Bank (ADB) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region. For more information, please visit: https://www.adb.org/ About ADB Ventures ADB Ventures is the venture arm of the Asian Development Bank, supporting technology-driven startups that deliver measurable social, climate, and development impact across Asia and the Pacific. It provides early-stage capital, strategic support, and access to ADB's network, helping startups scale innovative solutions in sectors such as inclusive fintech, climate tech, sustainable agriculture, and clean energy. By crowding-in private capital for sustainable development, ADB Ventures accelerates progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals in emerging markets. For more information, please visit: https://ventures.adb.org/ Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-lhoft

2026-02-23
Malaysia's First Globally Recognized Best Workplaces List Out This Week

The methodology behind the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For arrives in Malaysia this week, with 20 organizations making the inaugural list based on what 45,000 of their own employees had to say. SINGAPORE, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Between broad economic reforms, the startup boom, and a talent market that's getting more competitive by the quarter, Malaysia is having a moment. What the country hasn't had, until now, is Great Place To Work. The global authority on workplace culture behind the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For and Best Workplaces™ lists in more than 170 countries is coming. This Thursday, 26 February, Great Place To Work will release the first‑ever Best Workplaces in Malaysia list for 2026. "We're honored to bring the Best Workplaces recognition to Malaysia for the first time," said Evelyn Kwek, Managing Director of Great Place To Work ASEAN & ANZ. "It's an extremely dynamic time for this country, and as the nation presses forward with these big ambitions for growth, it makes sense for organizations here to have a benchmark for attracting and retaining high-quality talent." Taking data from over 45,000 individual employee survey responses, representing a workforce of 95,000, it's one of the most comprehensive workplace culture studies Malaysia has seen. Twenty organisations have made the cut in 2026 across small, medium, and large categories, spanning tech, hospitality, construction, finance, manufacturing, and professional services, a cross-section of the industries driving Malaysia's economy. How The Best Workplaces Lists Are Decided The rankings are based on the Great Place To Work Trust Index™ Survey, the same methodology used all over the world. Employees answer questions about what it's really like to work at their company, and Great Place To Work looks at how positive that experience is for all groups, roles, and levels – not just a select few. To become Great Place To Work Certified, organizations must reach at least a 65% score on the survey. Only Certified organizations are then considered for the Best Workplaces list, where the highest‑scoring companies in each size category are ranked. "Great Place To Work has accumulated global best practices around people, leadership, and culture from nearly three decades of data," said Kwek. "Those insights are invaluable to Malaysian companies, whether they're homegrown businesses or local operations of multinationals. While Great Place To Work hasn't been in Malaysia until now, we've been operating in this region for more than 12 years with a lot of big clients who have a presence in the country." Kwek has led the team that also introduced Great Place To Work culture benchmarking to Singapore, The Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. "I believe we bring the best of both worlds; global best practices in leadership and people culture, applied with local nuance." Why Malaysia, Why Now? Malaysia's economic trajectory, growth ambitions, and increasingly competitive regional talent market have created exactly the kind of conditions where workplace culture becomes a strategic differentiator. Last year the Malaysian economy grew 5.2% and the ringgit emerged as Asia's best‑performing currency, gaining nearly 9% against the US dollar. Unemployment has fallen to around 3%, its lowest level in a decade, and North American tech giants and cloud providers have committed more than US$23 billion to build data centres and digital infrastructure across the nation. "We feel it's time to recognize companies which are doing wonderful things, truly great workplaces that top talent might consider working for. Malaysia is definitely a country coming into its own in that respect," Kwek said. One of the more interesting tensions in Malaysia's current business landscape is the coexistence of a thriving startup ecosystem alongside large, established corporations. Both need strong culture, but for entirely different reasons. "There is a growing number of startups in Malaysia, and we can help them understand how to scale culture as they grow and expand. For large organizations, the challenge is different, it's about how to amplify culture so that it reaches every part of the business. These are two distinct challenges, and we have the experience and data to support both," Kwek explained. Scaling culture is straightforward in theory. But what happens when a 40-person company doubles headcount in a single quarter and the informal structures that once held everything together (who talks to whom, how decisions get made, what new hires absorb in their first week) stop working? "When organizations have a strategic focus on culture, they statistically do better on innovation, adaptability and even revenue," explains Kwek. "High‑trust workplaces earn up to 8.5 times more revenue per employee than the market average. They're also better able to withstand the shocks of an uneven financial climate. Trust is what allows them to absorb that friction and still perform, and often outperform their competitors." What Comes Next? Bringing Best Workplaces to Malaysia 2026 is just the beginning. Great Place To Work will be building an annually updated body of evidence about what workplace culture actually looks like in the country, measured by the people who experience it every day. "One of the key distinguishing factors of Great Place To Work is that our model is built on the idea of a great place to work for all, the ideal of inclusiveness. As Malaysia builds its next-generation workforce, helping organizations build and amplify a culture of trust, regardless of background or where people come from, is foundational. That 'for all' philosophy is what we hope to bring to Malaysia," Kwek said. For the companies that made the list, it's external validation of something they've been investing in internally. For those that haven't yet participated, the benchmark now exists and a standard has been set. Want to see who made the list? Sign up to be notified when the inaugural Best Workplaces in Malaysia List 2026 drops on 26 February. REGISTER HERE

2026-02-23
Vitafoods Asia 2026 Expands by 30%: A Bigger, More Dynamic Trade Event with Exciting New Features & Increased International Participation

BANGKOK, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- With a remarkable 30% growth in size and participation, Vitafoods Asia 2026 organised by Informa Markets, is set to redefine the nutraceutical industry in Asia, offering unparalleled opportunities for innovation and collaboration. The event will feature an exhibit space of 30,000 square meters with over 800 companies, representing an impressive 30% growth compared to the 2025 edition. Taking place once again at the state-of-the-art venue in Bangkok – Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) from 2 – 4 September 2026. Vitafoods Asia 2026 will see increased international participation with two new country pavilions, including Australia and New Zealand New Country Pavilions and New Experiential Activities & FeaturesThis year's event will also see the addition of two new country pavilions, Australia and New Zealand, further enhancing its global representation and showcasing innovations from these regions in the nutraceutical and functional food industries. In addition to its expanded size and international reach, Vitafoods Asia 2026 will introduce a host of exciting new features designed to elevate the attendee experience and provide deeper insights into the industry: Sensory Box: A workshop-style feature that enables attendees to experience food ingredients through sense of smell, touch, and taste. Creating an interactive experience that enables attendees to re-imagine user experience for their nutraceutical development. From Lab to Launch: The event will host a range of speakers that will provide valuable insights to R&D professionals, enabling them to envision the product all the way from raw ingredients in the laboratory to finished goods, with concept to completion journey for research professionals, including clinical trials. Four-Factor Solution Workshop: Delivered in partnership with the Healthy Marketing Team (HMT), expert brand builders specialised in serving brands, businesses and people in the food and nutrition industry, this programme is curated to guide and enable entrepreneurs to align their products and brands with the target audience and market. "The workshop will focus on learn the success factors in nutrition & health marketing, innovation, and branding, and avoid failure" Thailand Nutraceuticals Award Powered by Vitafoods Asia: A prestigious award ceremony recognising excellence and innovation in the Thai nutraceutical sector for finished products. Pet Nutraceuticals Showcase: A special exhibit highlighting the growing market for nutraceuticals designed for pets. Attendees at Vitafoods Asia 2026 can expect several experiential and learning activities Theme for Vitafoods Asia 2026The overarching theme for Vitafoods Asia 2026 is "Nutraceuticals Trends Across Generations", focusing on redefining health and wellness across all life stages. This visionary theme emphasises cutting-edge science, natural ingredients, and personalised nutrition through technology, aiming to create a future where people not only live longer but live better. These include gut and microbiome health, cognitive and mental wellness, active body and longevity, and personalised and digital nutritional enablers. "Vitafoods Asia 2026 is set to redefine the future of health and wellness by embracing cutting-edge science, natural ingredients, and personalised nutrition technologies. Our theme, 'Nutraceuticals Trends Across Generations,' envisions a world where people not only live longer but thrive at every stage of life. This year, the event will be 30% bigger and feature greater international participation, making it a truly global platform to explore innovative solutions that cater to the unique health needs of each generation, from Boomers to Generation Alpha. Together, we are fostering a healthier and more vibrant future for all." added Rose Chitanuwat, Regional Portfolio Director – ASEAN, Informa Markets. "As an Australian brand, Healthy Care values Vitafoods as a global platform to connect with partners across markets and gain insights into evolving health and wellness trends. This marks our first participation at the event, and we see Vitafoods as an important opportunity to further expand our reach across Southeast Asia. We look forward to building strong partnerships and contributing to conversations shaping the future of nutrition." added Michael Wu, General Manager, Nature's Care Manufacture Pty. Ltd. (Australia). Vitafoods Asia continues to be the leading platform for professionals in the nutraceutical, functional food, and dietary supplement industries, offering a unique space to connect, collaborate, and explore the latest trends and innovations. "For those who are still deciding whether they should attend Vitafoods Asia, I would 100% recommend coming here. It's the best place to explore trends, meet partners, potential partners, future partners, existing customers and clients, as well as brand owners. It's the ideal venue to build your network, engage in face-to-face meetings, and develop meaningful connections." added Pierre-Luc Morlet, Sales Director, Pharm Active Biotech Products. From my perspective, what I enjoy most is the opportunity to meet so many professionals from across Asia in one place. I think this is a great platform for us to exchange ideas, discover opportunities, and connect with numerous potential partners.'' added Alex Du, General Manager, Sirio Pharma Co., Ltd. For more information about Vitafoods Asia 2026, visit www.vitafoodsasia.com About Vitafoods Asia Vitafoods Asia is the leading nutraceutical event in Asia, bringing together industry professionals from across the globe to explore the latest trends, innovations, and opportunities in the nutraceutical and functional food sectors. About Informa Markets Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. Our portfolio is comprised of more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, and Health & Nutrition, among others. We provide customers and partners around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, specialist digital content and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading exhibitions organiser, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com. For media inquiries, please contact: Gautam JatwaniSenior Marketing ManagerGautam.jatwani@informa.com

2026-02-23
From Pondicherry to Udaipur, Agoda Mapped India's Trending Valentine Getaways

Increased accommodation searches point to a rising interest for calmer, scenic escapes SINGAPORE, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda analyzed accommodation search data for India's topmost searched destinations for Valentine's Day weekend, revealing a rise in interest compared to previous year in places such as Pondicherry and Varkala that offer a calmer pace of travel, scenic settings, and opportunities for shared experiences. From coastal towns to hill retreats and heritage cities, couples were keen to visit the places that allowed them to slow down and spend meaningful time together on Valentine's weekend. According to Agoda, Pondicherry recorded a 48% increase in accommodation searches compared to the previous year. The coastal town attracts couples with its seaside promenades, quiet beaches and streets shaped by French-era architecture, offering a walkable setting filled with cafés, boutique stays and ocean views. Varkala followed with a 41% increase in travel interest compared to the previous year, drawing visitors to its cliffside coastline where guesthouses, cafés and beaches sit above the Arabian Sea, creating a cozy environment ideal for a romantic getaway. Chennai also saw a 38% increase in searches from the previous year, appealing to couples who want a mix of beach access, cultural sites and city comforts. Visitors often combine time along the Marina shoreline with visits to historical temples, museums and a varied dining scene, giving the city a flexible itinerary for romantic trips. Beyond the southern coastline, Lonavala in Maharashtra saw a 36% increase in accommodation searches compared to the previous year, with its misty hills, waterfalls, and nature trails making it a convenient weekend escape for couples from nearby cities. In the north, Udaipur recorded a 33% rise in travel interest, continuing to attract couples with its lakes, palaces, narrow old-city streets, and heritage properties that lend themselves to romantic, picturesque stays. Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, "Valentine's Day is becoming all about shared experiences full of love over grand gestures. This year, we saw growing interest from couples towards destinations that offer scenic settings, relaxed environments, and the space to spend quality time together, whether by the beach, in the hills, or in a heritage city. At Agoda, we make it easy for travelers to plan these getaways with a wide range of accommodation options, value deals, and a seamless booking experience." Travelers planning their getaways can browse Agoda's wide range of offerings, spanning over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000+ activities worldwide. Running from 14 to 28 February, Agoda's Mega Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with special flash sales of up to 70% on 17 February and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 10 to 13 February. The latest offers can be found on the Agoda app or at agoda.com/deals.

2026-02-23
Proofpoint partners with Concentrix to strengthen human- and agent-centric cybersecurity across Asia Pacific

Partnership integrates Proofpoint's collaboration and data protection solutions into Concentrix SOC offerings, delivering enhanced security outcomes for regional enterprises NEW DELHI, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Proofpoint, Inc., a leading cybersecurity and compliance company, today announced a strategic partnership with Concentrix, a global technology and services leader. Together, the two companies will collaborate across Asia Pacific (APAC) to deliver enhanced, human- and agent-centric cybersecurity, leveraging Proofpoint's security platform alongside a coordinated go-to-market strategy. As part of the partnership, Concentrix will integrate Proofpoint's collaboration security and data protection solutions into its Security Operations Centre (SOC) offerings, enabling customers across the region to better protect their people, data, and digital communications. The collaboration brings together Proofpoint's industry-leading, human- and agent-centric security platform with Concentrix's SOC expertise, regional scale, and managed services capabilities to deliver enhanced cyber resilience for enterprises and SMBs operating in an increasingly complex threat environment. As organisations across APAC continue to accelerate digital transformation, expand cloud adoption, and adopt AI-driven workflows, cyber threats targeting people have become more frequent and sophisticated. Based on Proofpoint's 2025 Voice of the CISO report, CISOs are increasingly concerned about their organisations' ability to withstand a material attack. India stands out with 90% of CISOs expressing that their company is at risk of experiencing a material cyberattack in the next 12 months—the highest among all countries surveyed. This concern is driven by the fact that 99% of Indian CISOs have already reported the loss of sensitive data in the past year, which is the highest globally and significantly above the global average of 66%. Through this partnership, Proofpoint and Concentrix will jointly go to market across key APAC markets, enabling customers to deploy and operationalise Proofpoint's platform more effectively while aligning cybersecurity strategies with broader business and customer experience objectives. "We are excited to partner with Concentrix and be able to extend Proofpoint's offerings through trusted SOC services across Asia Pacific," said Nelson Soon, Vice President of Channels and Alliances for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ), Proofpoint. "By this innovative approach to combine Proofpoint's industry-leading human- and agent-centric security platform with Concentrix's services expertise and strong regional footprint, we can deliver meaningful security outcomes that support cyber resilience and business growth." "Concentrix is strengthening its managed services capabilities through a strategic partnership with Proofpoint. By combining Proofpoint's people-centric security platform with our deep regional expertise, we enable enterprises to neutralize emerging threats and accelerate digital transformation with absolute confidence," said Rishi Rajpal, Global Vice President, Governance, Risk & Compliance at Concentrix. The partnership reinforces Proofpoint's continued investment in the APAC region and its commitment to working with strategic partners to address the evolving cybersecurity needs of enterprises and SMBs operating in complex, highly regulated environments. About Proofpoint, Inc. Proofpoint, Inc. is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity, securing how people, data and AI agents connect across email, cloud and collaboration tools. Proofpoint is a trusted partner to over 80 of the Fortune 100, over 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations in stopping threats, preventing data loss, and building resilience across people and AI workflows. Proofpoint's collaboration and data security platform helps organizations of all sizes protect and empower their people while embracing AI securely and confidently. Learn more at www.proofpoint.com. Connect with Proofpoint on LinkedIn. Proofpoint is a registered trademark or tradename of Proofpoint, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. About Concentrix: Powering a World That Works Concentrix Corporation (NASDAQ: CNXC), a Fortune 500® company, is the global technology and services leader that powers the world's best brands, today and into the future. We're solution-focused, tech-powered, intelligence-fueled. Every day, we design, build, and run fully integrated, end-to-end solutions at speed and scale across the entire enterprise, helping over 2,000 clients solve their toughest business challenges. With unique data and insights, deep industry expertise, and advanced technology solutions, we're the intelligent transformation partner that powers a world that works, helping companies become refreshingly simple to work, interact, and transact with. Delivering outcomes unimagined across every major vertical in 70+ markets. Virtually everywhere. Visit concentrix.com to learn more. From Fortune. ©2026 Fortune Media (USA) Corporation. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune 500 are registered trademarks of Fortune Media (USA) Corporation and are used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media (USA) Corporation are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Concentrix. Copyright 2026 Concentrix Corporation and its subsidiaries. All rights reserved. Concentrix, the Concentrix logo, and all other Concentrix company, product and services names and slogans are trademarks or registered trademarks of Concentrix Corporation and its subsidiaries.

2026-02-23
Radisson RED Auckland marks Radisson Hotel Group's bold debut in New Zealand

BRUSSELS, Feb. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Radisson RED Auckland has officially opened, marking the brand's bold arrival in Australasia and Radisson Hotel Group's highly anticipated debut in New Zealand. Anchored in the heart of Auckland's Arts District, the hotel infuses bold design, artistic energy and the country's largest rooftop space into one of the city's most creative precincts. Radisson RED Art Located at 33 Lorne Street, Radisson RED Auckland is crowned by a vibrant rooftop bar seamlessly connected to dynamic rooftop event spaces, setting the scene for bold social moments above the city. As one of Auckland's few pet-friendly hotels, it welcomes guests to bring their four-legged companions along for the stay. Design-driven and community-minded, Radisson RED Auckland sets a new benchmark for modern hospitality in the heart of the Central Business District. A hotel built for Auckland's creative heartbeat Radisson RED Auckland channels the theatrical pulse of the surrounding Art District straight into its public spaces and guest experience. The hotel features 322 guest rooms and suites, bold gallery-style installations, immersive lighting, and sensory design moments inspired by Auckland's creative culture, performance arts, and urban energy. The central location puts guests just minutes from major attractions including the Art Gallery, Civic Theatre, Sky Tower, Auckland Museum, Waiheke Island and the West Coast beaches. Some of the city's best cafés and restaurants are right on the doorstep, creating an effortless base for both leisure and business travelers. "Radisson RED thrives in cities fueled by creativity, culture, and community, and Auckland captures that spirit perfectly. This opening marks a major milestone for our growth in Australasia and a proud moment for our upper-upscale Radisson RED brand, which brings a playful twist to the conventional. As Radisson Hotel Group's debut in New Zealand and the first Radisson RED in the region, we can't wait for everyone to see Auckland in RED and experience a hotel bursting with energy, design, and unforgettable moments," says Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, MEA & SEAP, Radisson Hotel Group. A bold, theatrical take on Auckland's arts culture Radisson RED Auckland's design blends attitude with artistry. Corridor lighting mimics stage spotlights. Lounge seating draws inspiration from opera boxes. Contemporary installation pieces nod to the city's vibrant gallery scene. Guest rooms echo an actor's dressing room, layered textures, expressive colours, curated artwork and sensory lighting that sets the tone the moment guests walk in. Higher-floor rooms offer skyline views, while the Suite Panorama presents sweeping vistas of Auckland City, Albert Park, and the harbour. Social spaces shaped for connection Radisson RED Auckland offers guests a vibrant all-day dining venue and bar for relaxed, casual moments. It's soon to open Rooftop Restaurant & Bar set to be the largest outdoor rooftop space in New Zealand, boasts sweeping open-air views of Auckland's iconic Sky Tower, positioning it as one of the city's most engaging bar destinations. From bespoke cocktail evenings to dynamic social gatherings, the rooftop offers a striking setting for memorable dining experiences and events, reflecting the hotel's bold, design-led approach to hospitality. The outlet reflects RED's love for Share & Connect, a concept where food, music, and mixology create the spark for natural interaction and community. With spacious zones and state-of-the-art equipment guests can also stay active in Radisson RED Auckland's fitness centre open daily from 5AM to 11PM. A rooftop built for play, performance, and possibility Perched above the city and with capacity for up to 219 guests in a cocktail style setup, this rooftop stands out as a series of meeting and event spaces designed to feel a creative playground, perfect for celebrations, live performances, popups, weddings, and business sessions alike. The venue can be configured into four flexible rooms, each filled with natural light, allowing it to shift effortlessly from polished corporate functions to relaxed social occasions. "Opening Radisson RED Auckland marks an exciting new chapter for the city, one that celebrates creativity, connection, and a bold new way to experience hospitality. We've designed Radisson RED Auckland to be far more than a place to stay, it's a creative hub where locals and travelers can plug into the heartbeat of the CBD and feel the city's culture, color, and energy from the moment they arrive. Every space has been shaped to spark inspiration, encourage connection, and bring a sense of play back into travel. We're proud to open our doors and introduce a fresh, dynamic experience to Auckland, one that reflects the spirit of the city and the attitude of RED," concludes Reinout Engel, General Manager, Radisson RED Auckland. For more information or to book, click here. Download high-resolution pictures here. ABOUT RADISSON HOTEL GROUP Radisson Hotel Group is a rapidly expanding international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with more than 1,600 hotels in operation and under development in +100 countries. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. The Radisson brand portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels. Radisson Rewards is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, counting more than 27 million members. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. Radisson Meetings provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions, placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional, and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely Carbon Compensated. At Radisson Hotel Group, we care for people, communities, and planet and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as carbon-compensated Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. For more information, visit our corporate website. Or connect with Radisson Hotels on: LinkedIn | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | WhatsApp | X ABOUT RADISSON RED Radisson RED is an upper upscale hotel brand that presents a playful twist on the conventional. The brand injects new life into hospitality through informal services where anything goes, a vibrant social scene that's waiting to be shared and stylish public spaces with standout design to inspire our guests. Radisson RED hotels are designed to meet the needs of our guests by giving them endless opportunities to tune in and out, switching effortlessly between business and pleasure. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson RED by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. Radisson RED is part of the Radisson family of brands, which includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson — brought together under one commercial umbrella brand, Radisson Hotels. For reservations and more information, visit our website. Or connect with Radisson RED on: LinkedIn | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | WhatsApp | X Standard Room View

2026-02-23
The 2026 Spring Festival Gala Effect: Yiwu Transient Spotlight into Lasting Tourism Growth

YIWU, China, Feb. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Yiwu Media Convergence Center: On New Year's Eve, the stunning debut of the Yiwu sub-venue at the 2026 Spring Festival Gala showcased "A Different Yiwu" to the world. Far from concluding with the gala's end, Yiwu transformed its fleeting on-screen brilliance into a tangible New Year experience, igniting the potential for holiday cultural tourism consumption. From "Highlight Stage" to "Lasting Attraction" The Spring Festival Gala effect continues to reverberate, bringing a "strong start" to Yiwu's cultural tourism market. Since the Spring Festival, Yiwu has recorded a total of 2.6757 million tourist visits across its regions, a year-on-year increase of 30.87%. Comprehensive tourism revenue reached 2.408 billion yuan, up 28.43% year-on-year. Starting from the first day of the Chinese New Year, ten Gala-related check-in spots were gradually opened to the public. As of the fourth day of the new year, the cumulative foot traffic had exceeded 650,000. As the main stage for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala sub-venue, the Yiwu Global Digital Trade Centre received 61,900 visitors on its opening day, driving nearly 1 million yuan in consumption at the on-site New Year market. Ximen Old Street restored the aesthetic scenes from the Gala, featuring the magnificent rattle-drum stage, dazzling phoenix lantern displays, and alleyways where tradition met modernity, attracting throngs of visitors. On the first day of the Chinese New Year, the street received 12,100 visitors, and by the fourth day, single-day foot traffic exceeded 30,000, with average daily numbers continuing to climb. From "Online Traffic" to "Offline Consumption" During the Spring Festival holiday, Yiwu implemented a combined strategy of "Event Matrix + Consumption Incentives + Industrial Chain Extension" to fully unleash consumption potential. The event matrix achieved comprehensive coverage. Centered around the 2026 Spring Festival Gala sub-venue locations and five major commercial districts, Yiwu coordinated with 14 towns and sub-districts to launch 166 "Explore Yiwu with the Spring Festival Gala" Spring Festival cultural tourism experience activities, ensuring "each town has its unique feature, with surprises every day". Fotang Tourist Resort hosted immersive activities during the holiday, such as ancient town rooftop concerts, and intangible cultural heritage stage performances, accumulating over 600,000 tourist visits and achieving total tourism revenue exceeding 40 million yuan. The industrial chain was extended in an integrated manner. By blending the Gala's IP with local culture, Yiwu developed 17 co-branded cultural and creative products with the 2026 Spring Festival Gala, including Year of the Horse woven bags and intangible cultural heritage rattles, along with over a hundred "Yiwu Gifts" specialty items. Seven pop-up stores for Gala cultural creative products were opened at the airport, train stations, and key commercial districts. An online "Yiwu Gifts" store was launched, four double-decker buses were transformed into mobile pop-up shops, and a "Spring Festival Gala Post Office" was established in collaboration with China Post. To date, total sales of cultural and creative products have exceeded 5 million yuan.

2026-02-21
Strutt ev¹, the World's First Smart Everyday Vehicle, Ignites Global Demand as Early-Bird Pre-Orders Outpace Projections Within Weeks

SINGAPORE, Feb. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Strutt Inc., the award-winning mobility brand recognized by the Red Dot: Luminary and the CES Innovation Award, announced today that global pre-orders for its flagship ev¹, the world's first Smart Everyday Vehicle, have surpassed initial sales targets within a month of its early-bird launch. The demand exceeded the company's preliminary projections, signaling a shift in expectations for high-end personal mobility. The response underscores a significant, unmet demand for mobility solutions that harmonized advanced engineering with standout industrial design. By combining everyday practicality with intelligent, vehicle-grade capability, the ev¹ has quickly gained traction among early adopters and tech enthusiasts worldwide. "The velocity of these pre-orders confirms that we've struck a chord with a community that has been underserved by traditional mobility options for far too long," said Tony Hong, Founder and CEO of Strutt. "The response to our January 2026 pre-order launch and subsequent roadshow has been remarkable, with about 75% of test-drive participants placing a new order or securing an existing pre-order immediately after their experience. This conversion rate gives us the confidence to accelerate initial production and move faster on commercial expansion." A Co-Designer Edition for Early Supporters All customers in the first production batch will receive a special Co-Designer Edition of the ev¹. As early believers in the brand, these customers are recognized as foundational contributors to the product's evolution and will receive an official Co-Designer Certificate commemorating their participation. This initiative reflects Strutt's belief that innovation is community-driven. With over-the-air (OTA) updates and continuous feature refinement, early customers will play an active role in shaping the long-term development of the ev¹ platform, helping raise the experience for the broader community over time. Strategic Production and Delivery Acceleration To address the influx of orders, Strutt is executing a coordinated operational scale-up across manufacturing, supply chain, and channel infrastructure to ensure disciplined growth and consistent quality. Prioritized Fulfillment Early-bird customers will retain priority delivery status under Strutt's allocation framework. Production sequencing will follow confirmed order sequence by country and region, with phased fulfillment designed to preserve transparency and customer confidence. With capacity adjustments now underway, Strutt expects first customer deliveries to begin in Q2 2026. Supply Chain Expansion Strutt is reinforcing upstream component sourcing and deepening collaboration with core manufacturing partners to increase throughput while maintaining the precision engineering and rigorous quality controls required for its award-winning design. Additional logistics measures are being implemented to mitigate bottlenecks and strengthen production resilience as volumes scale. Channel Support To sustain demand conversion and support market expansion, Strutt is scaling its global test-drive and experiential roadshow network. The company is working closely with international partners to optimize regional allocation planning, enhance pre-order management, and strengthen localized customer support infrastructure. "We are scaling with discipline," said Tony Hong. "Our priority is not just delivery, but durability and reliability, and the operational and after-sales backbone needed for long-term category leadership." Pre-Orders Reopened Following the rapid sell-out of its initial run, Strutt has released an additional allocation and reopened their pre-order. Pre-orders will remain open through the end of February via Strutt's official website: Strutt ev¹ Pre-Order Deposit About Strutt Strutt is a Singapore-incorporated robotics company redefining personal transport through advanced sensing, self-driving technology, and award-winning industrial design. Since its global unveiling at CES 2026, the Strutt ev¹ has defined a new category in intelligent personal mobility, engineered to deliver electric-vehicle-level safety, intelligence, and control in a compact personal vehicle built for everyday use.

2026-02-20
Yiwu Invites Global Guests to a "Spring Festival Gala Style" New Year

YIWU, China, Feb. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Yiwu Media Convergence Center: On February 19th, Yiwu held a press conference titled "Spring Festival Gala Style New Year in Yiwu". This time, the event transformed from a one-time announcement into an immersive exploration journey through real-life settings, inviting guests to discover the same experience as seen on the Spring Festival Gala. It extended a warm invitation to audiences nationwide and around the globe. During the 12 minutes on New Year's Eve, Yiwu captivated the world. The presentation showcased the majestic momentum of rowing races under the Fotang Floating Bridge, the patriotic fervor of the army of Qi Jiguang embodied in their vow for "peaceful seas and tranquil years", the century-old reminiscence of Chen Wangdao's "taste of happiness is exceptionally sweet", the festive spirit of spiraling Bench Dragon dances, the intelligent coolness of golden-armored robots, and above all, the open-mindedness of Yiwu connecting the world through the Global Digital Trade Centre. Those 12 minutes were magnificent, dazzling, and left the audience wanting more. Though the Spring Festival Gala has concluded, the "Spring Festival Gala Style New Year in Yiwu" is now unfolding. The Global Digital Trade Centre—the dazzling main stage of the Gala, themed "Silk Road Songs of Joy", exudes grandeur and magnificence, where the graceful Tea-Picking Dance and cross-continental songs of the century resonate together. Ximen Old Street—a realistic model of Spring Festival Gala aesthetics, freezes moments in time such as Jackie Chan gently catching a feather, the captivating glimpse of the rattle-drum stage, and the impassioned departure of the Qi's army. Beyond the two main stages, visitors can also explore the ancient charm and new vitality interwoven at Fotang Ancient Town, where green bricks, black tiles, and the floating bridge's shimmering reflections create a captivating contrast; witness the lively and joyous Children's Bench Dragon parade at Fenshuitang Village and taste the sweetness of faith as imbued in the happy life as Chen Wangdao; feel the dynamism of rural entrepreneurs at Lizu Village; or discover the story of common prosperity at Dachener Village. These beautiful rural villages are all competing to showcase their unique splendor. From "Captivating Moments" to "Urban Prosperity", every frame within those stunning shots encapsulates the essence of everyday life and patriotic feelings. Each scene is photogenic and unmissable. Explore Yiwu with the Spring Festival Gala. We sincerely invite everyone to come to Yiwu, savor global cuisines, shop for world-class goods, and make friends from all over the world. Source: Yiwu Media Convergence Center

2026-02-20
Supreme Courts of Singapore and Cambodia Sign Memorandum of Understanding for Judicial Cooperation

SINGAPORE, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On 10 February 2026, the Supreme Court of the Republic of Singapore and the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Cambodia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote bilateral judicial cooperation. On 10 February 2026, The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon made a courtesy call on the President of the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Cambodia, The Honourable Chief Justice Chiv Keng. The signing of the MOU marks a significant milestone, constituting the inaugural bilateral judicial cooperation agreement by the two judiciaries. The MOU facilitates a deeper exchange of judicial expertise and paves the way for in-depth discussions on matters of common interests. These include electronic filing of court documents and case management systems, and related issues concerning resourcing, supporting and building capacity in the use of such systems. The signing of the MOU took place after an official call by The Honourable the Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon on the President of the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Cambodia, The Honourable Chief Justice Chiv Keng. Chief Justice Menon led a delegation including Justice Aidan Xu, Judge in-charge of Transformation and Innovation, and Ms Juthika Ramanathan, Chief Executive (Office of Chief Justice) on a two-day visit to the Supreme Court of Cambodia. Visit News and speeches (judiciary.gov.sg) for more details.

2026-02-20