TikTok And International Chamber Of Commerce Partner On Global Initiative To Empower Small Businesses and Drive Economic Growth In Nigeria

Digital Commerce Labs’ to leverage TikTok’s track record powering small
businesses globally with ICC’s extensive trade and business education to
deliver a high-impact, digital commerce program for local businesses

TikTok and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) today announced
the launch of the Digital Commerce Labs [1] — a global program
designed to unlock digital commerce opportunities for small businesses,
in select markets across Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Businesses of all sizes thrive on TikTok and use the platform to reach
new customers and build their brands. The initiative will leverage
TikTok’s suite of digital commerce tools and reach combined with the
ICC’s expertise on international trade, powerful network of national
committees and chambers of commerce, to expand access to training,
mentorship, and digital resources in Nigeria.

Through this partnership which is also supported by Nigeria’s National
Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Lagos State
Employment Trust Fund, TikTok and ICC will equip small businesses in
Nigeria with digital skills and tools to increase revenue opportunities,
expand market access, and build long-term resilience. By connecting
global expertise with local business communities, the Digital Commerce
Labs will create a scalable education model that can be replicated
across markets to help entrepreneurs translate digital knowledge into
real-world growth opportunities. The program is designed to build
long-term digital commerce ecosystems by working in close collaboration
with national chambers and local organizations.

The program will deliver learning and economic impact through three
integrated components:

  • Community building will form the foundation, bringing small businesses
    together through virtual and in-person sessions with relevant local
    ecosystem partners to foster peer learning and network development.
  • Self-led online training modules hosted on a dedicated learning platform
    will offer participants flexibility and depth, featuring videos produced
    by local experts, interactive quizzes, and a certificate of completion.
  • Virtual classrooms will provide instructor-led learning opportunities
    where entrepreneurs can engage directly with industry experts, ask
    questions in real time, and deepen their understanding of digital
    commerce tools and strategies.

“This partnership marks a powerful step forward in our mission to build
a more inclusive, dynamic, and accessible global economy. By joining
forces with TikTok to launch the Digital Commerce Labs, we are equipping
entrepreneurs and small businesses across ten markets with the practical
tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in the digital age.
Ultimately, this initiative is about impact: unlocking opportunity,
strengthening resilience, and ensuring that the benefits of digital
commerce are shared more widely. Together, we are helping shape a more
inclusive future for businesses globally,” said John W.H. Denton AO,
Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/04/23/klay-group-names-gaurav-gupta-managing-director-client-advisor-for-asia-based-in-singapore/

“We’ve seen how small businesses can grow rapidly on TikTok by
connecting with communities in authentic ways. This has reinforced the
importance of educating small business owners on how they can go beyond
visibility and actively support their long-term success. Our partnership
with the International Chamber of Commerce, NITDA and Lagos State
Employment Trust Fund is an important step in that direction, equipping
entrepreneurs with the resources they need to scale and thrive” said
Tokunbo Ibrahim, Acting Head of Government Relations & Public Policy,
Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok.

The Digital Commerce Labs program is expected to launch across 10
countries, supporting entrepreneurs through community programming,
digital learning resources, and virtual training sessions. The program
will launch in select markets across Latin America and Africa this
spring, followed by a broader expansion across Africa and to Thailand
later this year.

Small businesses in Nigeria are encouraged to sign up to stand a chance
to be a part of the comprehensive training programme, designed
specifically to help local entrepreneurs sharpen their skills and scale
effectively.

https://iccwbo.org/business-solutions/services-for-small-business-and-entrepreneurship/digital-commerce-labs/

Klay Group Names Gaurav Gupta Managing Director, Client Advisor For Asia, based In Singapore

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 23 April, 2026:

Klay Group, a boutique financial services firm providing Wealth Management, Multi-Family Office, Asset Management and Corporate Advisory services to ultra-high-net-worth families and institutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gaurav Gupta as Managing Director – Client Advisor.

Based in Singapore, Gaurav will report to Arjun Anand, Chief Executive Officer (APAC), and will advise ultra-high-net-worth clients across Asia on portfolio construction and cross-border wealth strategies.

His appointment comes as Klay Group continues to strengthen its presence in Asia, amid growing demand for institutional-quality, globally diversified investment solutions.

Kalpesh Khakhria, Chairman of Klay Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gaurav to Klay Group. His experience advising sophisticated clients across markets will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our client offering and expand globally.”

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/04/23/before-being-suckered-beware-parasocial-interaction-is-campaign-strategy/

Arjun Anand, Chief Executive Officer (APAC), added: “We are seeing increasing demand from ultra-high-net-worth clients for holistic, institutional-quality advice. Gaurav’s client-centric approach and cross-border experience make him a strong addition to our team in Asia.”

Gaurav brings over 21 years of experience across private banking, investment advisory, and research. He has worked with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and corporates across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. Most recently, he was an Executive Director at Nomura, where he was recognised as a Top 10 Banker and served on the firm’s Junior Talent Board.

About Klay Group:

Klay is a global boutique financial services firm delivering independent advice, tailored solutions, and smart systems across wealth management, multi-family office services, asset management, and corporate advisory. Combining institutional rigour with personalised service, our open architecture model ensures clients benefit from unbiased expertise, aligned incentives, and innovative insights powered by a dedicated in-house investment team and global analyst network.

With offices in Dubai, India, Singapore, London, and Australia, our diverse team of 140+ professionals from over 13 nationalities serves clients with a commitment to long-term relationships built on trust and shared success. Since inception, we have supported more than 450 families worldwide, maintaining a strong focus on bespoke strategies that preserve and grow wealth across generations.

Klay Group is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the Securities and Exchange Board of India, the Financial Conduct Authority UK, and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. Services are available to professional, accredited, and wholesale investors only.

Before Being Suckered, Beware: Parasocial Interaction Is Campaign Strategy!

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By Ugochukwu Ugwuanyi

Although not in the manner that parasocial interaction (PSI) typically presents, the extent to which Nigerian politicians go to court constituents while on the campaign trail reflects PSI. It is what it is when they stop by the roadside to patronise the roasted corn seller and immediately snack on the same without any care in the world that they are in the midst of a crowd! You can even find them collecting a random baby from the mother’s back and fondly cuddling the infant while rapping the people in whistle-stop tours.

What is Parasocial Interaction?

The Cambridge Dictionary defines ‘parasocial’ as an adjective “involving or relating to a connection that someone feels between themselves and a famous person they do not know, a character in a book, film, TV series, etc., or an artificial intelligence.” It has also been defined as a one-sided emotional bond formed with famous personalities like party candidates, where devotees feel the kind of familiarity and intimacy that is not actually requited.

In recent times, the term has been deployed to describe “a type of relationship between a person and a non-person, for example, a celebrity”. It leaves their fans high and dry, delivering both feelings with equal celerity. The relationship fits into the playbook of politicians because it serves their purpose without any actual commitment from them.

PSI Has Been Deluding Audiences since the 50’s

Parasociality goes beyond an obsession with a cult leader into making one convinced that this hero knows you as much as you know them. The phenomenon dates back to a 1956 study, Mass Communication and Para-Social Interaction, where Donald Horton and Richard Wohl observed that television viewers engaged in “para-social” relationships with on-screen personalities, resembling those they formed with “real” family and friends. It started as a specialist academic term before becoming a tool for mainstream conversations.

As the Cambridge Chief Editor, Colin McIntosh, puts it, parasocial interaction “was originally coined as an academic word and was confined to the academic sphere for quite a long time. It’s only fairly recently that it’s made a shift into popular language, and it’s one of those words that have been influenced by social media.”

The paradigm has evolved over the years, showing the resilience and adaptability that make it relevant in strategic political communication. There is no distancing it from the lived attention economy and AI chatbots of the present day, which perhaps explains its emergence as the Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2025.

How Nigerian Politicians are Making a Play of PSI

By the definition cited above, the relationship between Nigerian politicians and the people is parasocial, stupid! During electioneering, they try to make the electorate see them as transparent, as if what they see is what they get. But the people soon realise when they’re voted into office that they don’t know these politicians at all.

In a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural constituency, they become tribesmen to sell their candidacy to bigoted folks. Through PSI, they make people from their neck of the woods own their campaign, basking in the symbolism of political representation at the highest levels and the anticipated preferential treatment for their kind and the development of their places of origin.

But after riding these tribal or religious considerations to get into office, the politician first takes care of themselves, their families, friends, and associates – many of whom may not even be members of their communities. By the time they’re through catering to these interests, nothing but crumbs are left for “their people”. This has continued to make nonsense of the psychic-political affinity established during the campaigns, which should be the symbolic conduit through which people vicariously connect with governments.

Another manifestation of PSI will be the cameo appearances candidates make in their constituents’ social events, freely mingling with those on the scene. Yet, their type when eventually elected would rather address grieving victims of violence from an armoured personnel carrier. That’s parasocial interaction for you. It creates the fantasy of fraternity between the follower and the followed when none really exists in the reckoning of the latter. There is also the pervasive vote-buying on Election Day which appears a friendly gesture but mortgages the people’s future, giving the politician more reason to distance himself from the people afterwards.

Well, much as they try, Nigerian politicians can’t beat their Western counterparts at PSI. Campaign arenas turn electric when candidates shockingly call some obscure supporters or neighbourhood leaders by name, inviting them to the rostrum to address the audience. It gives such a follower an intimate connection, but for the candidate, it ends there. PSI is indeed a global strategy.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/04/23/cbn-announces-10-major-bvn-changes-effective-may-1-2026-to-strengthen-fraud-prevention/

If Befriending the Masses is impracticable, Bonding with and Retaining Volunteers Shouldn’t Be!

Now, if establishing familiarity with strangers who believe in these politicians is too much to ask, how about their team of volunteers with whom they’ve had frequent meetings? These foot soldiers will be hosted at the candidate’s guesthouses, where they will have one-on-one discussions with the candidate over sumptuous meals, encouraged to contribute ideas on how the party will carry the polls.

Still, this won’t be enough to register them in the minds of the candidates as veritable partners. If these volunteers get ahead of themselves to let out any inconvenient truth at such meetings, they will instantly have stern-looking protocol officials on their side to escort them out of the room, never to be allowed into the caucusing again.

Even for those who were committed as ambassadors and advocates of the principal’s agenda, they often find themselves in the cold when their man eventually wins. While in the lurch, they watch a different set of people who were nowhere to be found during the heavy lifting brought in to call the shots and enjoy the spoils of war.

This is where Nigerian politicians must temper parasocial interaction with graciousness. They should be more intentional in their interactions with internal teams during electioneering to identify smart alecs they can work with when they make it to power. It is said that opportunities in government are like the meat of an elephant, which, when shared appropriately, should go round. At least, you must have heard of some Nigerian governors appointing as many as 200 special assistants – that is in addition to other coteries of aides.

The least these politicians can do is to retain the services of these volunteers to continue showing the electorate they convinced to vote for the candidate how their man is living up to the mandate, unless these politicians have no intention to deliver on their campaign promises.

Ugochukwu, a Branding Strategist and Media Trainer, welcomes feedback via nmiringwu@gmail.com

CBN Announces 10 Major BVN Changes Effective May 1 2026 To Strengthen Fraud Prevention

The Central Bank of Nigeria has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of the Bank Verification Number framework, introducing ten major changes designed to combat electronic fraud and identity theft across the nation’s financial system. The new guidelines, which take effect on 1 May 2026, represent a significant tightening of digital banking access controls and personal data management protocols.

The updated policy introduces a “Single Device Locking” requirement for mobile banking applications, tethering each customer’s banking app to one specific mobile device. Logging into an account from a new smartphone will automatically deactivate access on the previous device, a measure specifically aimed at preventing unauthorised account takeovers and limiting the window for fraudulent activity.

Brandspur Banking News Desk reports that customers switching to new devices will face a 24-hour transaction limit capped at ₦20,000 during the transition period, providing an additional layer of protection while the system validates the device change. The apex bank has also placed stringent restrictions on personal data updates, with customers now permitted to change the phone number linked to their BVN only once in their lifetime.

The “one-time” phone number change policy is specifically targeted at curbing SIM-swap fraud, which has emerged as a primary tool for cybercriminals seeking to intercept one-time passwords and drain victim accounts. Demographic eligibility requirements have also been tightened, with the CBN setting a minimum age of 18 years for independent BVN enrollment.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/04/23/vinhomes-green-paradise-can-gio-and-ihg-hotels-resorts-partner-to-bring-four-international-hotel-brands-to-the-coastal-mega-urban-development/

Minors will no longer be eligible for standalone BVNs and must instead have their accounts linked to a legal guardian’s profile. This ensures that every account operated by a minor remains under direct adult supervision within the regulatory net, closing a previous loophole that had been exploited in some fraud cases.

The CBN is additionally implementing a 24-hour automated fraud watchlist system, under which any BVN associated with suspicious transaction patterns or flagged activities will be restricted immediately for a cooling-off period. This 24-hour restriction window allows financial institutions to verify the legitimacy of transactions before permanent damage occurs, reinforcing the overall security architecture of the Nigerian digital economy.

The new BVN framework represents one of the most significant regulatory interventions in Nigeria’s banking sector since the introduction of the BVN system itself, reflecting the CBN’s determination to stay ahead of evolving fraud techniques. Financial institutions have been directed to begin immediate preparations for full implementation of all ten changes by the 1 May 2026 deadline.

Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio And IHG Hotels & Resorts Partner To Bring Four International Hotel Brands To The Coastal Mega Urban Development

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – Cangio Tourist City Corporation, the developer of Vinhomes Green Paradise, and IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, have signed a strategic partnership agreement to introduce IHG’s hotel brands to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio in Ho Chi Minh City. The collaboration will not only enhance the project’s service ecosystem to international standards, but also lay the foundation for a leading coastal mega urban development, reinforcing Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio’s position on the global tourism and resort map.

Under the agreement, IHG will develop four hotels with a total of more than 1,000 rooms at Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio, including InterContinental Saigon Can Gio with 400 rooms, Crowne Plaza Saigon Can Gio with 400 rooms, Holiday Inn Express Saigon Can Gio with 130 rooms, and Garner Saigon Can Gio with 130 rooms.

InterContinental Saigon Can Gio, a world-renowned luxury brand, will deliver premium hospitality experiences tailored to international travelers and domestic guests seeking high-end accommodation. Crowne Plaza Saigon Can Gio, one of the largest upscale hotel brands globally, will cater to frequent travelers with modern, flexible spaces designed to optimize productivity and foster connections.

Holiday Inn Express Saigon Can Gio and Garner Saigon Can Gio will expand the destination’s accommodation offering with efficient, high-quality stays focused on value, making the development more accessible to a broader range of guests. This also marks the official debut of both brands in the Vietnamese market.

According to the development timeline, Holiday Inn Express Saigon Can Gio and Garner Saigon Can Gio are expected to open in 2028, followed by InterContinental Saigon Can Gio and Crowne Plaza Saigon Can Gio in 2030.

In this partnership, Vinpearl, a member of Vingroup, will act as the project operator and lead the collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts, while coordinating with all stakeholders throughout the development and operational phases.

Together with Vinpearl’s world-class hospitality brand, the addition of four premium IHG hotels will help realize a 7,000-room accommodation ecosystem at Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio, meeting the growing demand for extended stays and diverse experiences year-round in Can Gio and Ho Chi Minh City.

Complementing the hospitality offering, a series of large-scale entertainment and resort facilities unique to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio will further elevate the destination. These include the 122-hectare VinWonders theme park featuring the world’s tallest artificial snow mountain and nearly 200 attractions, the 5,000-seat Blue Waves Theater, the 800-hectare Paradise Lagoon, the five-star international cruise port Landmark Harbour, and two 18-hole international-standard golf courses. Together, these developments aim to position Can Gio as a globally-recognized tourism and resort hub, targeting 40 million visitors annually and standing alongside leading destinations in Vietnam and worldwide.

Mr. Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “This agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between IHG and Vingroup. Bringing four of our standout brands to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio reflects the diversity of our portfolio, as well as our strong commitment to supporting Vietnam’s goal of becoming a leading global tourism destination. With brands spanning multiple segments, we believe this collaboration will help create an integrated hospitality ecosystem that meets the diverse needs of travelers at one of Vietnam’s most significant developments.”

Ms. Ngo Thi Huong, Chief Executive Officer of Vinpearl Joint Stock Company, said: “We selected IHG not only for its global brand portfolio but also for its proven operational expertise across international markets. Introducing InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn Express, and Garner to Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio is a key step in completing our service structure and establishing international operating standards for the mega project’s hotel system. With this partnership as a foundation, we believe Vinhomes Green Paradise will progressively emerge as a world-class destination, where a fully integrated ecosystem continues to enhance its appeal to residents and both domestic and international visitors.”

Vinhomes Green Paradise is located in the southeastern part of Ho Chi Minh City. Construction began on April 19, 2025, with a total area of 2,870 hectares. The development features three sides facing the sea and is adjacent to the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized site. The project is being developed to leading ESG++ standards, integrating green, smart, ecological, and regenerative principles.

The development benefits from a well-connected transport infrastructure network, including the Ben Thanh – Can Gio high-speed railway, which will reduce travel time from central Ho Chi Minh City to just 13 minutes, the Can Gio Bridge, the interchange connecting Rung Sac Road with the Ben Luc – Long Thanh Expressway, and the Can Gio – Vung Tau sea-crossing route, enabling travel between two major tourism hubs in just 10 minutes.

With a diverse range of accommodation options, internationally-standardized hotel systems, and a wide array of cultural, artistic, sports, and entertainment facilities aligned with green, smart, and community-friendly principles, Vinhomes Green Paradise Can Gio stands out as a rare mega urban development that both sets new benchmarks for ESG living and delivers a world-class tourism and resort experience.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

About IHG Hotels & Resorts:

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company with a portfolio of 21 brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world’s largest hotel loyalty programs with over 160 million members. IHG currently franchises, leases, manages, or owns more than 6,900 hotels across over 100 countries, with more than 2,300 hotels in its development pipeline.

IHG’s brand portfolio spans Luxury & Lifestyle, Premium, Essentials, and Suites segments, including well-known brands such as Six Senses, Regent, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn Express, Garner, Staybridge Suites, and Candlewood Suites.

About Vinhomes
Vinhomes is Vietnam’s leading real estate developer, pioneering the development of large-scale, well-planned urban areas with integrated amenities, green living environments, and modern lifestyles. In addition to 36 urban developments currently in operation nationwide, Vinhomes continues to focus on building next-generation mega and super urban developments of regional scale and significance, aspiring to create some of the most livable cities in the world while significantly transforming Vietnam’s urban landscape.

For more information, please visit

Porsche Design Tower Bangkok takes centre stage at Singapore Yachting Festival 2026

STUTTGART, GERMANY & SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – Blending the worlds of high-performance automotive engineering and architectural permanence, Porsche Design Tower Bangkok will make its highly anticipated regional showcase at the Singapore Yachting Festival 2026. Taking place from 23 to 26 April at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, the festival offers an exceptional opportunity to showcase a unique project that transcends conventional luxury real estate.

PDTB Invitation – Singapore Yacht Festival

Arriving not merely as a residential property, but as a collectible, design-led, ultra-luxury real estate project, Porsche Design Tower Bangkok presents a once-in-a-generation offering. Amidst a spectacular showcase of the world’s finest superyachts, the festival offers Asia’s most discerning yacht owners and collectors a rare opportunity to discover a masterclass in structural originality and absolute privacy. The goal is to connect directly with a global audience of yacht owners and collectors, aligning perfectly with the project’s target group of collectors of exceptional assets.

The centerpiece of this regional showcase is a highly exclusive, invitation-only gathering held within the festival’s newly introduced Spotlight Zone. On Sunday, 26 April, from 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM, an intimate group limited to just 50 guests will be immersed in a bespoke narrative titled “Porsche Design: Shaping Performance, Designing the Future.”

For invited guests, this truly unique experience is meticulously crafted as a curated and intimate occasion. Attendees will be invited into a sophisticated and comfortable setting, designed to facilitate meaningful connections within an exclusive global community of like-minded collectors, prominent thought leaders, and Luminaries

During this intimate afternoon, guests will discover how the philosophy behind Porsche’s legendary sports cars has been seamlessly translated into an outstanding living environment limited to just 22 units. The discourse will highlight the ingenuity behind the tower’s defining architectural features and qualities—revealing how engineering marvels like ‘The Loop’ spiral vehicle ramp and ‘The Passion Space’ elevate automotive ownership into a refined collector’s ritual.

For the region’s exclusive global clientele, this debut represents an exclusive invitation to experience the future of automotive-inspired residences, reinforcing Porsche Design Tower Bangkok’s status as a highly sought-after masterpiece and the definitive reference point in global architectural design.

For discerning individuals wishing to experience this architectural masterpiece in person, the Show Suite based in Bangkok welcomes guests by private appointment only. To inquire about a private viewing, please contact sales@pdtowerbangkok.com or visit pdtowerbangkok.com.

Hashtag: #Ananda #PorcheDesign

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

About Porsche Design Tower Bangkok

The Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets a new standard for ultra luxury living with its limited offering of just 22 exclusive residences. Located on Sukhumvit 38, one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses, this groundbreaking project is the first of its kind in Asia and the third globally, following Miami and Stuttgart. Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled exclusivity, the tower offers residents the perfect blend of serene living in the coveted Thonglor neighborhood, with easy access to the city’s most vibrant attractions and amenities. Among its standout features are the customizable “Passion Spaces”—private, in-unit garages that allow residents to showcase their prized car collections, creating a truly unique living experience.

Galaxy Macau and HSBC Hong Kong Co-present an Exclusive Constellation of Stellar Rewards

Award‑winning luxury resort introduces a magnificent roster of bespoke privileges for HSBC Hong Kong cardholders, where elevated shopping and refined gastronomy converge through thoughtfully curated luxury rewards

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – Galaxy Macau today unveiled an exclusive credit card collaboration with HSBC Hong Kong (HSBC HK) to deliver elevated lifestyle privileges across the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area. Leveraging Galaxy Macau’s expertise in luxury travel and hospitality alongside HSBC’s leadership in premium financial services, the partnership introduces a seamless suite of curated experiences for select cardholders. As the integrated resort with the most Forbes Five‑Star awards in the world, Galaxy Macau continues to redefine destination‑led luxury through thoughtful, guest‑centric offers and experiences.

Anchored in constantly evolving guest experiences, Galaxy Macau and HSBC HK join hands to present a repertoire of stellar privileges. On behalf of senior managements from both parties, Mr Paul Tse, Director of Marketing & Event Services of Galaxy Entertainment Group and Ms Iris Ng, Head of Business Partnerships Development, Cards & Unsecured Lending of HSBC HK, gathered in the gardens of Raffles at Galaxy Macau for a ceremonial photo‑taking to mark the launch.

Marking Galaxy Macau’s first credit card partnership with HSBC HK, the collaboration offers holders of the bank’s select credit cards tailored dining and shopping privileges designed to enhance cross‑border travel experiences. Together, the two brands aim to unlock new lifestyle moments, deepen engagement with discerning travellers and create sustainable value through a shared commitment to excellence and refinement.

Galaxy Macau unveils a suite of co‑presented promotions and bespoke privileges, meticulously crafted to enhance the world‑class luxury resort experience for HSBC HK’s selected credit cardholders.
Galaxy Macau unveils a suite of co‑presented promotions and bespoke privileges, meticulously crafted to enhance the world‑class luxury resort experience for HSBC HK’s selected credit cardholders.

The pinnacle of luxury resort offers for HSBC HK selected credit cardholders:

  1. Elevated spending rewards
    From April 1 to June 30, Galaxy Macau elevates the rewards of indulgence as HSBC HK selected cardholders who meet designated spending across its selected acclaimed dining venues and selected shops at the illustrious Galaxy Promenade are rewarded with vouchers worth up to MOP1,800. The privilege unlocks a world of refined pleasures curated seamlessly within a single, extraordinary resort destination.
  2. Stellar dining privileges
    From May 8 to December 31, Galaxy Macau’s handpicked collection of its most acclaimed restaurants, including one-Michelin-starred Italian fine-dining 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA, one-Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine Lai Heen, refined omakase-style teppanyaki institution Teppanyaki Shou and the world’s first Raffles’ speakeasy Long Bar, among other leading restaurants, invites HSBC HK cardholders to savour elevated dining privileges. Eligible cardholders enjoy complimentary champagne, signature snacks and desserts, as well as 20% off and complementary cake during their birthday months at the selected restaurants, turning every celebration into an elegant gala.
  3. Bespoke privileges for premium clients
    Galaxy Macau will introduce further customised rewards and elevated privileges exclusively for HSBC premium credit cardholders, covering an array of areas, aiming to deliver a more immersive, cross‑sector luxury experience for the resort’s most valued guests.

Galaxy Macau: a paragon of Asia’s most distinguished resort experiences

Galaxy Macau’s collaborative credit card offering with HSBC HK marks a significant milestone in the resort’s expansion across the Greater Bay Area. By seamlessly integrating premium financial services with world‑class travel, dining, entertainment and luxury experiences, the partnership creates added value for today’s cross‑border travellers. Leveraging HSBC HK’s extensive network of high‑net-worth credit cardholders, the collaboration enhances the depth and quality of regional travel lifestyle experiences, setting a new benchmark for elevated leisure within the Greater Bay Area.

Looking ahead to 2026, Galaxy Macau—Macau’s flagship luxury integrated resort and a leader across Asia—will continue to welcome guests from around the world with its world‑class facilities and experiences. Visitors can look forward to a refined and diverse selection of dining, shopping and entertainment, alongside a year‑round calendar of headline events, including regular international concerts and large‑scale live shows, delivering a continuous stream of memorable moments throughout the year.

Galaxy Macau’s world-class culinary offering features over 120 restaurants with a collection of them recognised by international authoritative bodies such as Forbes Travel Guide, MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau and the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide.
Galaxy Macau’s world-class culinary offering features over 120 restaurants with a collection of them recognised by international authoritative bodies such as Forbes Travel Guide, MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau and the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide.

Galaxy Macau’s culinary landscape is equally distinguished, featuring over 120 restaurants with a collection of them recognised by international authoritative bodies such as Forbes Travel Guide, MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau and the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide. Collaborations with world‑renowned chefs and limited‑edition dining experiences ensure that each visit offers a rare and memorable gastronomic journey.

Galaxy Promenade brings together more than 200 prestigious luxury brands, regularly unveiling exclusive previews and limited‑time launches.
Galaxy Promenade brings together more than 200 prestigious luxury brands, regularly unveiling exclusive previews and limited‑time launches.

Complementing the dining experience, Galaxy Promenade brings together more than 200 prestigious luxury brands, regularly unveiling exclusive previews and limited‑time launches. The resort’s nine award‑winning hotels, including the newly unveiled all‑suite and penthouse sanctuary Capella at Galaxy Macau, together with the world’s largest skytop aquatic attraction Grand Resort Deck, complete a stay defined by elegance, scale and imagination.

For more information about Galaxy Macau and this collaboration, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.

Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different calibre of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.

Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.

Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit and

Ascott Invests in AI-ready Infrastructure to Scale Agentic Commerce

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), today announced a decisive push into AI-ready infrastructure to position itself at the forefront of agentic commerce, as intelligent agents increasingly take over how travellers plan and book their stays. Three strategic collaborations with Accenture, Amadeus and EHL Hospitality Business School will advance this AI-ready transformation across digital architecture, distribution and people capabilities. As one of the global hospitality companies frontrunning to invest in agentic AI, Ascott seeks to accumulate data, operating experience and process efficiencies that would compound over time.

Ascott is building the technology infrastructure and people capabilities to lead in agentic commerce. Pictured at the Ascott Global Conference 2026 panel “Man versus Machine: When AI Agents Become the First Audience, How Will Ascott Convince Software Before Humans?” are (from left) Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott; Emily Weiss, Senior Managing Director and Global Travel Industry Lead, Accenture; Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Ascott; Professor David Bardolet, Associate Dean, APAC and Professor of Strategy, EHL; and Paul Wilson, Vice President, Hospitality, Asia Pacific, Amadeus.

Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Ascott, said: “Distribution shifts, labour pressures and rising guest expectations are reshaping hospitality. While AI is already helping Ascott make meaningful strides across commercial and operational functions, the bigger opportunity lies in what comes next. Instead of waiting to see how agentic AI plays out in travel, we are building the infrastructure to shape how it does. With more than 1,000 properties across 14 brands in over 230 cities, the opportunity before us is significant. The work we are announcing today covers how our workflows are redesigned, how our inventory reaches guests and how our people are equipped to deliver. AI can power our operations, but only our people can exercise the judgement that turns a stay into a memory. That balance will guide how we continue to invest and operate.”

Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “In an agent-led travel ecosystem, Ascott properties will have to be visible where the real decisions are made — inside algorithms. Brand and property information must become machine-readable and optimised for generative engines. That requires smarter recommendations, more precise inventory matching and loyalty experiences that recognise our Ascott Star Rewards members at every touchpoint, whether they are searching on their own or through an agent. Our work with Accenture and Amadeus is building exactly that foundation. But technology alone cannot deliver the heartfelt experiences that define an Ascott stay. Our collaboration with EHL is about keeping our people as the human advantage, bringing warmth and genuine care that no AI can fully replicate.”

Ascott’s move into agentic commerce is grounded in AI capabilities already delivering impact. Since the launch of Cubby in 2023, the digital concierge has supported more than 900,000 guest enquiries, autonomously handling most routine interactions and contributing to booking outcomes. Beyond guest engagement, Ascott has continually invested in AI-enabled capabilities across marketing, revenue management, loyalty and sales. The company has identified and even redesigned cross-functional workflows supported by AI — such as sales enablement and prospecting, pricing and discounting, lead-to-deal conversion, and marketing content creation.

Cubby, Ascott's AI-powered digital concierge, already assists guests with itinerary planning, destination discovery and property recommendations on DiscoverASR.com. With Ascott's new agentic foundation layer in place, Cubby is set to evolve from travel companion to personal travel agent, moving from conversation to orchestration by anticipating guest needs and acting on them before they have to ask.
Cubby, Ascott’s AI-powered digital concierge, already assists guests with itinerary planning, destination discovery and property recommendations on DiscoverASR.com. With Ascott’s new agentic foundation layer in place, Cubby is set to evolve from travel companion to personal travel agent, moving from conversation to orchestration by anticipating guest needs and acting on them before they have to ask.

Ascott has also been strengthening the content ecosystem that shapes how its properties are found and recommended by AI‑powered search and generative engines. By focusing on meaningful guest interactions that translate into positive reviews and digital advocacy, Ascott is improving the discoverability of its properties in an increasingly AI‑led travel environment. As it builds towards agentic commerce, Ascott is tracking clear outcomes, including stronger booking values, greater efficiency, faster time‑to‑market and improved AI visibility.

Preparing for Agent-Enabled Travel with Accenture
Ascott is working with Accenture, a leading solutions and services company that helps the world’s leading enterprises reinvent by building their digital core and unleashing the power of AI. Together, the companies will design the foundational architecture required for a next-generation AI-enabled travel ecosystem, with responsible AI practices and data privacy built in by design. This foundation layer will help create value at speed through enabling seamless communication across Ascott’s core systems, including its central reservation, property management, customer relationship management and loyalty platforms. Ascott will be pilot testing a range of next-generation capabilities, including model context protocol frameworks, large language model (LLM)-enabled applications and early-stage unified commerce concepts. The goal is to facilitate machine-mediated interactions which do not require workarounds as they become more prevalent.

The new tech infrastructure will prepare Ascott to deploy a standardised agentic layer across different guest interfaces, such as LLM chats, messaging apps and its own direct booking platforms. Accenture is contributing to the commerce and personalisation vision that sits atop this foundation – one where Cubby could evolve from travel companion to personal travel agent. Moving from conversation to orchestration, agentic Cubby could compare options, plan itineraries and complete bookings on behalf of guests. This would give rise to a new era of personalisation, where Cubby does not just respond to guests, but anticipates their needs and acts before they have to ask.

Ms Emily Weiss, Senior Managing Director and Global Travel Industry Lead, Accenture, said: “Agentic commerce represents the biggest shift in commerce in the last 20 years. In travel specifically, we see this shift taking place across the entire end to end journey; from inspiration and planning to booking and loyalty. Ascott recognised early on that brands who have systems that agents can trust enough to transact with, have the advantage. Therefore, a technology overlay is not sufficient – platforms needed to be re-architected while reimagining how brands present themselves to machines. With Ascott, we are collaborating to build that foundation, positioning Cubby to move from travel companion to booking agent.”

Redefining Hospitality Distribution with Amadeus
Most hotel reservations systems are built around fixed room types and rates. That works well for many portfolios but is less efficient for one as diverse as Ascott’s, where serviced residences, hotels, resorts and social living properties each offer a variety of accommodation options with different demand drivers, catering to all lengths of stay and purposes. With AI agents quickly becoming a key interface for travel discovery and planning, it is becoming imperative for reservations systems to be primed for AI agents to effectively evaluate accommodation options and suggest personalised stay experiences.

To address this, Ascott is implementing the Amadeus Central Reservations System (ACRS), developed by Amadeus, a global travel technology leader. Once deployed, with an API-first architecture, ACRS will enable Ascott to define and distribute inventory by both room categories and richer property attributes, giving guests and AI agents access to a complete picture of what each property offers. The result will be a distribution model that activates properties and promotions faster, propagates rate logic more consistently and reduces friction for owners bringing new offers to market. For guests and the AI agents acting on their behalf, it means being matched to stays based on what actually matters to them.

Mr Paul Wilson, Vice President, Asia Pacific, Hospitality, Amadeus, said: “Ascott operates one of the most diverse hospitality portfolios globally, with deep roots in Asia and growing scale across multiple regions. Attribute-based shopping is where distribution is heading, and Ascott understands that better than most. We are pleased to bring these modern retailing capabilities to our customers as we transform the hospitality industry in partnership with forward-thinking customers like Ascott.”

Keeping Talent and Brand at the Core with EHL
Along with robust, integrated data, an essential enabler for implementing AI is the workforce. Ascott is making sure its people, the talent and change-management capabilities to lead the transformation, are keeping pace. As the company expands across a broader range of property types – from serviced residences and limited-service properties to full-service hotels and resorts, building an AI-ready workforce requires a clear talent development strategy. The company’s primary objective of this strategy is to design smarter, more productive operations, prioritising high-value engagements rather than scattered initiatives, thereby freeing up its associates to focus more on guests.

Working through Ascott’s Global Brand Academy, EHL – a global leader in hospitality education – is developing training programmes to build internal certified trainers at Ascott, giving regional and property teams the skills, models and tools to uphold brand standards and service philosophy. The aim is to grow brand pride, preference and performance from within, so that a shared hospitality mindset holds across the portfolio. And because AI transformation is as much a cultural exercise as it is a technical one, Ascott hopes to equip its associates with the confidence and capabilities they will need to embrace AI. The rollout has started with the Ascott brand, and will be followed by Oakwood, Citadines and others.

Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #Technology #TalentDevelopment #AI #HR





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

The Ascott Limited

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes , , , , , , , , , , , , and .

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of , Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit . Alternatively, connect with Ascott on , , and .

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

Stable economy and digital transformation power Hong Kong SMEs to decade high performance, CPA Australia survey

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – Hong Kong’s small businesses delivered their strongest performance in a decade in 2025, while confidence in the year ahead has climbed to a record high, according to CPA Australia’s latest Asia‑Pacific Small Business Survey 2025–26.

The survey shows that 68 per cent of Hong Kong SMEs recorded growth in 2025, up from 65 per cent in 2024 and marking the highest result on record. This positive momentum is expected to continue this year, with 71 per cent of SMEs expecting their businesses to grow and 76 per cent anticipating growth in the local economy — both at record highs. Customer loyalty and a strong workforce were identified as key drivers behind SMEs’ solid performance last year.

Mr Cliff Ip, Councillor of CPA Australia’s Greater China Divisional Council, said Hong Kong’s improving business environment played a critical role in supporting SME growth. “Hong Kong’s business confidence and economic growth strengthened last year, supported by robust capital markets, a recovery in tourism and consumption, and signs of stabilisation in the property market,” said Mr Ip. “Against this stable and supportive backdrop, small businesses not only benefited from increased business activity, but were also able to expand in a healthy and sustainable manner.”

Looking ahead, Mr Ip noted that while global geopolitical tensions and external uncertainties pose rising challenges, Hong Kong’s underlying strengths remain a key advantage for SMEs. “Rising geopolitical risks are likely to create headwinds for many sectors such as trade and logistics through higher fuel costs and supply chain disruptions. However, I remain confident about Hong Kong’s overall business outlook this year,” he said. “As many regions become more unpredictable or less secure, Hong Kong’s stable and consistent business environment, together with supportive policy settings including the city’s low and simple tax regime stand out as important advantages in attracting international companies and investors.”

Mr Ip added that these developments also present new opportunities for local SMEs, particularly as increased international interest creates scope to build partnerships, expand networks and tap into new markets. “This environment also creates favourable conditions for younger entrepreneurs to explore emerging markets and pursue new business opportunities,” he said.

Improved business performance has strengthened the solvency of many local SMEs. The share of businesses reporting difficulty paying debts fell sharply from 22 per cent in 2024 to just 3 per cent in 2025, while only 4 per cent expect to face difficulties this year, down markedly from 26 per cent previously. As a result, Hong Kong small businesses are now the least likely among the surveyed businesses to report solvency concerns.

Mr Ip said, “The solvency of many SMEs has notably improved, driven by stronger cash flow from improved business growth, a robust capital market and a recovering property market over the past year. This healthier cashflow has both supported easier access to external finance and reduced the need for such finance.”

Hong Kong SMEs have also strengthened their capability to invest in technology that delivers rapid improvements in profitability. In 2025, 64 per cent of SMEs reported that their technology investment in that year helped improve profitability, up from 59 per cent in 2024. Two in five Hong Kong SMEs invested in artificial intelligence (AI) last year, making it the leading technology investment among local SMEs, followed by customer relationship management (CRM) software.

At the same time, cyber protection has improved, with the share of Hong Kong businesses reporting losses from cyber incidents falling sharply from 72 per cent in 2024 to 43 per cent in 2025. However, as digitalisation accelerates, cyber risks remain elevated, with nearly three in five SMEs expecting to face cyber threats this year, above the survey average 42 per cent.

Mr Davy Leung, Deputy Chairperson of CPA Australia’s SME and Entrepreneurship Committee of Greater China, said the growing maturity and availability of AI tools is helping SMEs enhance productivity, reduce operating costs and improve customer experience.

(Left) Mr Davy Leung, Deputy Chairperson of SME and Entrepreneurship Committee 2026 from CPA Australia (Right) Mr Cliff Ip Greater China Divisional Councillor 2025 from CPA Australia
(Left) Mr Davy Leung, Deputy Chairperson of SME and Entrepreneurship Committee 2026 from CPA Australia (Right) Mr Cliff Ip Greater China Divisional Councillor 2025 from CPA Australia

“However, rising digital fraud, wider AI adoption and SMEs’ increasing reliance on digital banking have prompted the Hong Kong Government to significantly strengthen banking security and cybersecurity resilience over the past year. This includes the rollout of low-cost and practical initiatives such as the Cybersec One Programme and the continued implementation of the ‘9+5’ SME support measures. The decline of cyberattack-related losses reported in the survey in part reflects the effectiveness of these measures.

“As cybersecurity threats and digital fraud risks continue to escalate, SMEs should make better use of these available resources, including free website risk assessments and vulnerability identification services, to strengthen their defence capabilities and safeguard business operations.”

Mr Leung also suggested that the Government consider revamping the Technology Voucher Programme to support broader digitalisation efforts, including the adoption of both AI and non-AI technologies. He added that enhanced training support would help SMEs identify and implement modern tools to drive innovation, improve efficiency and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Rising costs remain a key challenge for Hong Kong SMEs in 2025, with 29 per cent reporting it having a negative impact on their business. However, this was the second‑lowest level among all surveyed markets, underscoring Hong Kong’s relatively low inflationary environment last year. Notably, the share of SMEs citing staff costs as a negative factor rose from 35 per cent to 42 per cent, making it the most significant cost pressure for Hong Kong businesses in 2025. This increase may help explain why the proportion of SMEs hiring additional staff declined from 42 per cent to 38 per cent last year.

Mr Leung said, “Increasing costs remain a significant barrier for many SMEs across Asia‑Pacific region, but Hong Kong’s relatively low inflation has helped cushion the impact on local small businesses,” Mr Leung said.

Mr Leung added that while headcount growth has moderated, overall staff costs have continued to rise as businesses invest in higher‑value talent. “Greater digitalisation and automation have helped ease labour constraints in Hong Kong. When SMEs do add staff, they are increasingly recruiting employees with digital and AI capabilities, or creating new roles to support business transformation. These positions typically command higher salaries, which has contributed to higher overall staff costs despite slower hiring growth.”

The annual survey collected the views of 4,166 small businesses across 11 Asia-Pacific markets, including Singapore, the Chinese Mainland, and Australia, with 305 respondents from Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at

NineSmart Smart Property Makes Appearance at HKBN Enterprise Solutions Event

Driving Intelligent Transformation of Property Management with AIoT

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – NineSmart attended the “AI-Powered Property Operations: From Strategy to Execution” conference hosted by HKBN Enterprise Solutions on 17 April, where it exchanged insights with industry peers from property management and technology sectors on how AI and IoT can help transform property operations from traditional models into a truly intelligent one. The event focused on smart property management, security operations, tenant experience and system integration, and featured keynote sharing and live demonstrations showcasing how AIoT is driving property management from “passive monitoring” to “active detection” and “predictive management.”

(Middle Left) Sing Wong, Business Director and (Middle Right) Lucas Mo, Co-founder of NineSmart at the HKBN Enterprise Solutions Event

Presentation: A People-Centred Approach to Intelligent Transformation

During the session, Sing Wong, Director of Business Development at NineSmart, noted that true intelligence should go beyond device automation and address the practical needs of residents, frontline property staff, and management or owners alike. In traditional property management, access control, lifts, sensors and clubhouse facilities are often managed separately. Even with automation systems in place, these systems may still fail to connect with one another, resulting in more back-end systems for frontline teams to monitor.

Wong said, “The real shift in intelligent management lies in data flow and system connectivity. When data from different devices is brought into a single platform, management teams can better anticipate and address potential issues early, freeing frontline staff from repetitive tasks so they can focus on higher-value service work.”

Showcase: Smart Property Management Solution

In addition to the presentation, NineSmart also showcased its Smart Property solution and one of its functional modules, Smart Access, demonstrating how a unified platform can connect different devices to help the industry improve operational efficiency and service experience. Through an integrated IoT platform, access control is no longer just a standalone function, but one that can be connected with other operational workflows, notification mechanisms and data analytics, enhancing overall efficiency and security.

Driving Smart Transformation and Automation Toward Unmanned Operations

As AIoT technology continues to mature, property operations are moving away from manual patrols and reactive follow-up to predictive and automated management. More repetitive tasks will be handled automatically by systems, allowing frontline teams to focus on higher-value work and helping property operations move toward a sustainable unmanned operating model.

Lucas Mo, Co-founder of NineSmart, said, “The future of property management is not just automation, but a true intelligent transformation driven by data and AIoT, enabling residents, frontline teams and management to collaborate efficiently on one platform. This allows property teams to better understand usage patterns and service needs, make more forward-looking decisions, and enhance both operational efficiency and long-term asset value.”

Positive Feedback from Attendees and Industry Representatives

Visitors and industry representatives said NineSmart’s showcase clearly demonstrated the practical implementation of smart property management, particularly in access control, system integration and operational automation, with clear use cases and tangible value. Some attendees also noted that the showcase successfully combined the ideas of “automation” and “people-centric design,” advancing smart transformation from a simple hardware upgrade to a shift in operational thinking. This closely aligned with the event theme of moving from strategy to execution, helping to advance property operations toward a higher level of intelligent transformation.

Hashtag: #HKBNEnterpriseSolutions #NineSmart #SmartProperty #IoT #SmartAccess



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

About NineSmart

NineSmart is a leader in property technology, specialising in IoT and AI-driven solutions that transform property management. We are dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions for smart building automation and digital transformation to comprehensively optimize management efficiency. As a Cyberport incubatee, NineSmart is dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable, and user-centric smart living experiences. Visit to learn more.