A 10-year warranty, mobile support, and charging partnerships position the VF 8 as a long-term bet that feels unusually secure for a new entrant.
DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 –When an unfamiliar badge shows up in the crowded Gulf car market, buyers tend to default to caution. For new entrants, that hesitation has to be addressed early, and warranty coverage has become one of the most effective tools for doing so.
For example, the upstart VinFast offers the VF 8 with a 10-year or 200,000-km vehicle warranty, paired with a 10-year unlimited-km battery warranty across GCC markets. The scale of that coverage quickly becomes shorthand for durability, removing the question “Will this brand last?” from the customer’s subconscious altogether and replacing it with a more grounded “What happens if something goes wrong over the next decade?” That, at least, is the intention behind the strategy.
Today, many established brands still offer three to five years of basic coverage, with longer terms often limited to specific components or available only through paid extended plans. That gap becomes immediately visible in showroom comparisons, where buyers are weighing not just upfront cost but long-term ownership risk. In markets like the Gulf, where durability and resale value are closely scrutinized, a longer warranty can directly influence perceived value over time.
There is data to support why this approach matters. A 2023 YouGov survey across 18 markets found that 78% of global consumers consider warranty coverage an important factor when buying a car[1]. In the UAE, that figure stands at 77%, reinforcing how central after-sales assurance is to purchase decisions.
From the OEM’s point of view, long warranties are rarely reckless. Modern EV powertrains have fewer moving parts than combustion engines, and catastrophic failures are statistically rare when vehicles are maintained properly. By structuring coverage carefully, manufacturers can advertise large, attention-grabbing numbers while keeping real exposure controlled, with robust quality assurance helping keep issues minimal and manageable.
In the Middle East, VinFast’s after-sales strategy extends beyond the warranty itself, with mobile battery rescue and repair support, alongside 24/7 roadside assistance and five years of free maintenance up to 100,000 km. These are not random additions. They target specific anxieties around EV ownership, particularly in regions where charging infrastructure is still evolving.
Known for its ecosystem thinking, VinFast is also building out its support network in parallel. In the UAE, VinFast recently signed an MoU with PlusX Electric, a DEWA-approved charging provider, to extend support beyond the dealership network. The plan includes portable charging pods, on-demand mobile charging, and emergency roadside charging services. The goal is to reduce downtime and eliminate the awkward scenario of running low on charge far from a plug.
“VinFast is committed to building a long-term and comprehensive EV ecosystem in the UAE—one that gives customers confidence not only in the quality and performance of our electric vehicles, but also in the reliability and accessibility of the supporting infrastructure,” one executive of VinFast Middle East said in a press release.
This layered approach matters because warranties alone don’t solve daily inconveniences. A long-term contract reassures buyers at the point of purchase, but ownership confidence is shaped by what happens on a random Tuesday evening when something goes wrong. Mobile service units, fast parts supply, and integrated charging support close that gap.
“Always with You, Always Ahead,” From banking services to life protection planning, professionally supports your journey with peace of mind
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – Ping An Digital Bank (International) Limited (“Ping An Digital Bank” or “PingAnDB”) unveils its new branding today. As one of the integrated financial platforms in Hong Kong under Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (“Ping An”; SEHK: 2318; SSE: 601318), Ping An Digital Bank leverages the Group’s technology integrated strength to embark on an exciting new chapter.
With a core commitment to enhancing customer experience, Ping An Digital Bank adheres to its vision of “Always with You, Always Ahead.” Harnessing innovative technology, the Bank redefines the digital banking journey, making it simpler for customers to manage their deposits, investments, and insurance – all from a single account from their mobile device. Striving to anticipate customer needs and go the extra mile, Ping An Digital Bank empowers customers to take smarter steps towards financial growth and accumulate wealth steadily over time, without the burden of complex procedures or heavy research.
Mr. Ronald Iu, Chief Executive of Ping An Digital Bank, said, “We are delighted to unveil a brand new Ping An Digital Bank. This better reflects our deep connection with Ping An Group, integrating our signature ‘insurance DNA’ directly into our banking services and further reinforcing our role as an integrated financial platform in Hong Kong. Moving forward, Ping An Digital Bank will continue to develop both retail and business banking. Our team is dedicated to our brand vision of ‘Always with You, Always Ahead’ as our brand image transforms – building trust as the foundation, and simplicity as our priority. From banking to life protection planning, our professional team stands ready to support our clients throughout every stage of their financial journey.”
Retail Banking: User-Centric at the Core One Account for Deposits, Investments & Insurance Since joining Lufax in 2024, Ping An Digital Bank has accelerated the development of its retail banking offerings, launching online and offline insurance, as well as wealth services. With one single account that integrates deposits, foreign exchange, cross-border remittances, wealth and insurance, customers can now enjoy truly one-stop financial experience. As of 15 March 2026, total retail banking deposits have surpassed HK$ 12 billion.
With user-friendliness at the heart of its design, Ping An Digital Bank’s retail banking services aim to minimise redundant steps and simplify money management. The latest dual-advantage wealth solution marries the experience of agility of a brokerage with the security of a bank, allowing customers to invest in Hong Kong stocks, U.S. stocks, funds, and money market funds directly from their savings accounts with no extra transfers required, enabling customers to SWITCH flexibly between investment and deposit services.
Powered by Ping An’s robust insurance pedigree, Ping An Digital Bank leads the market as Hong Kong’s first digital bank to provide a full spectrum of online and offline insurance services. For unrivalled efficiency, customers can purchase general insurance products, including motor insurance, travel insurance, and home insurance products, online within minutes. For client-centric experience with human touch, the Bank’s offline platform delivers an extensive range of life protection and savings plans, tailored to each client’s needs.
Business Banking: A Pillar of Support for Trade Enterprises Driving Breakthroughs with Data & Technology As a leading digital bank for SMEs in Hong Kong, Ping An Digital Bank plays a pivotal role in supporting the city’s trading enterprises. By harnessing advanced technology and business data, the Bank is striving to help unleash the full potential of Hong Kong’s digital economy while backing the HKSAR Government’s vision for smart city development. Through the integration of trade, logistics, and financial data, Ping An Digital Bank is revolutionising the credit approval process to deliver quicker and more flexible assessments, empowering a broader range of businesses to seize new opportunities.
From account opening and foreign exchange to cross-border remittances and financing, Ping An Digital Bank stands as a key pillar of support for trading enterprises, providing an integrated business banking suite that meets the practical needs of companies in both daily operations and international expansion. Leveraging innovative data models, the Bank empowers trading SMEs to advance their operations and thrive, and thus becoming a dedicated and trusted partner for business growth.
Looking ahead, Ping An Digital Bank will continue to put customer convenience at the heart of its services, striving to help both individuals and businesses to save time, effort and cost. The Bank is dedicated to setting new benchmarks for digital banking, while reinforcing its position as a key pillar within Ping An Group’s integrated financial platform in Hong Kong.
Investment involves risk. The price of investments fluctuates, sometimes dramatically. The price of investments may move up or down, and may become valueless. There is an inherent risk that losses may be incurred rather than profit made as a result of buying and selling investment products. Foreign investments carry additional risks not generally associated with the domestic market. You should carefully consider whether any investment products or services mentioned herein are appropriate for you in view of your investment experience, objectives, financial resources and circumstances.
Hashtag: #PingAnDigitalBank #平安數字銀行
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Ping An Digital Bank
Ping An Digital Bank (International) Limited (“Ping An Digital Bank,” “PingAnDB”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufax Holding Ltd (“Lufax”) (SEHK: 6623; NYSE: LU) and a member of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (“Ping An”) (SEHK: 2318; SSE: 601318). Ping An Digital Bank was granted a banking licence by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in May 2019 to offer retail banking and business banking services. Backed by Ping An’s advanced technology, Ping An Digital Bank is elevating banking experience, serving customer in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, establishing itself as Ping An Group’s comprehensive financial platform in Hong Kong.
WRISE Prestige is the first firm in Hong Kong to offer the ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund (Income Share Class), marking a milestone partnership that reinforces its standing as a leading wealth management firm.
The Fund’s Income share class * offers a target dividend yield of approximately 9%, combining strong historical performance with flexible, benchmark-unconstrained allocation to meet growing demand for income-generating solutions in Asia.
The partnership underscores WRISE’s commitment to expanding its curated suite of institutional-grade investment solutions for sophisticated investors across the region.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – WRISE Group (“WRISE“), one of Asia’s fastest-growing independent wealth management firm, announced that WRISE Prestige, has established a strategic partnership with China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited (“ChinaAMC (HK)“), one of the region’s most established asset managers. Through this collaboration, WRISE Prestige will serve as the first launch partner in Hong Kong with a period of exclusive access to the ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund (INC share class), offering clients a compelling fixed income solution designed for yield and diversification. To mark the partnership and the launch of the exclusive share class, WRISE Prestige and ChinaAMC (HK) co-hosted an event yesterday to formally announce the collaboration and introduce the investment strategy behind the ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund to invited guests and clients.
The ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund adopts a flexible, benchmark-unconstrained investment approach, allowing the fund manager to capitalise on opportunities across Asian credit markets dynamically. By focusing on fundamentally sound issuers, with a particular emphasis on China and the broader Asian region, the Fund seeks to deliver attractive risk-adjusted returns. Its strong historical track record underscoring the robustness of its investment process.
Recent geopolitical tensions have triggered significant volatility across global financial markets, making diversified, income-oriented strategies that can navigate geopolitical uncertainty paramount for sophisticated investors seeking portfolio resilience. With a target dividend yield of approximately 9%*, the Fund’s Income share class is positioned to address the increasing demand among Asian investors for stable and sufficient cash flow solutions. This income-focused strategy complements the broader portfolio needs of high-net-worth individuals seeking resilience and yield beyond traditional asset classes.
Henry Shin, Chief Executive Officer of WRISE Prestige, said: “We are delighted to partner with ChinaAMC to bring the ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund (Income Share Class) to our clients as an exclusive launch in Hong Kong. In today’s volatile geopolitical landscape, investors require solutions that can adapt to changing conditions while delivering consistent income. The ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund embodies this approach, offering flexible mandate and strong yield potential that make it a valuable addition to our curated platform.”
Barney Gao, Head of Strategic Client Development at China Asset Management (Hong Kong), said, “We are pleased to collaborate with WRISE Prestige to introduce the ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund (Income Share Class) to investors in Hong Kong. This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering innovative and performance-driven investment solutions to a broader audience. With its focus on Asian bond markets and a flexible investment strategy, the Fund is well-suited to meet the income and diversification needs of investors in the region.”
This partnership highlights WRISE’s ongoing strategy to broaden access to best-in-class asset managers and deliver tailored investment solutions that address the complex and evolving needs of private wealth clients across Asia.
Important Information
This document is issued by WRISE Prestige Securities Limited (CE No. BSJ229). This document is for information purposes only and does not constitute and should not be construed as an offer, solicitation, recommendation or advice to buy or sell any investment product, nor should it be regarded as investment research.
Investment involves risks. The value of investments may go down as well as up and investors may not get back the principal invested. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
The ChinaAMC Select Asia Bond Fund is authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) in Hong Kong. SFC authorization is not a recommendation or endorsement of the Fund nor does it guarantee the commercial merits of the Fund or its performance. It does not mean the Fund is suitable for all investors.
Distributions (if any) are not guaranteed. Distribution rates are not indicative of the Fund’s return. The Fund may pay distributions out of income and/or capital (or effectively out of capital), which may result in an immediate reduction of the Fund’s net asset value.
This document has not been reviewed by the SFC.
* The Manager may at its discretion pay dividend out of capital or effectively out of the capital of the Funds. Payment of dividends out of capital amounts to a return or withdrawal of part of an investor’s original investment or from any such capital gains attributable to that original investment. Any such distributions may result in an immediate reduction in the Net Asset Value per Unit.
Hashtag: #WRISE
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
WRISE Group
WRISE is one of Asia’s fastest-growing financial firms, driven by strategic acquisitions of companies with deep expertise and solid foundations. With a strong presence across key financial hubs including Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Changsha, Taipei and Tokyo, WRISE is home to one of the largest networks of independent qualified advisors. With over 400 employees located globally, supported by an ecosystem of over 200 financial intermediaries and access to eight booking centres worldwide, WRISE ensures unparalleled service and expertise in navigating today’s financial landscape.
WRISE Group of companies include WRISE Wealth Management (Singapore), WRISE Wealth Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Wealth Management Middle East Ltd (DIFC, regulated by the DFSA), WRISE Prestige (Hong Kong) Limited, WRISE Prestige Securities (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Asset Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Capital (Hong Kong), WRISE Financial Services (Hong Kong) and affiliates including WeWrise Services.
China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited
Established in 2008, China Asset Management (Hong Kong) Limited (“ChinaAMC (HK)”) is a leading Chinese asset manager in Hong Kong. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of China Asset Management Co. Limited, one of the trusted asset managers and largest ETF provider in Mainland China with over USD 464.5 billion assets under management as of December 31, 2025.
ChinaAMC (HK) has amassed an impressive performance history in both active and passive investments over the past 17 years. Boasting robust expertise in a variety of asset classes, covering equities, fixed income, ETF, L&I products, digital assets, as well as mandates and investment advisory services. ChinaAMC (HK) adopts a global outlook to build a versatile platform catering to institutional and retail investors in the region and worldwide. All efforts align with their vision of being “Beyond China Expert”.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – EarBalance Pte. Ltd., a well-established audiology clinic in Singapore, has unveiled a series of significant developments that underscore its commitment to redefining hearing and balance care. Formerly known as Sound Balance, the clinic has officially rebranded to EarBalance to better reflect its expanded scope of services and its collaborative approach with Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists. Alongside this transformation, the clinic is preparing to launch Singapore’s first FDA- and Health Sciences Authority (HSA)-approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid solution, while also spearheading a major community hearing awareness initiative set to take place in June 2026.
Dr. Kenneth Chua, Senior Principal Audiologist, EarBalance Pte. Ltd.
These developments position EarBalance at the forefront of a shifting audiology landscape, one that increasingly prioritises accessibility, education, and holistic patient care.
A Strategic Rebrand to Reflect Broader Clinical Collaboration The transition from Sound Balance to EarBalance Pte. Ltd. marks more than a change in name. It signals a strategic evolution in the clinic’s identity and clinical philosophy. While the former name emphasised audiology and sound perception, the new brand encompasses a more comprehensive understanding of ear health, thus integrating both hearing and balance functions.
“Our ears are not just for hearing. Very often, we think about our five senses, which include hearing. The sixth sense, which is our balance, is often forgotten,” said Dr Kenneth Chua, Senior Principal Audiologist at EarBalance Pte. Ltd. Dr Chua also noted that the rebrand reflects the clinic’s commitment to addressing both aspects of ear health through a collaborative, multidisciplinary model that includes close partnerships with ENT specialists.
EarBalance has established strategic collaborations with several ENT groups, including ASCENT ENT Group, enabling a more seamless patient journey from diagnosis to treatment. This integrated care model ensures that patients presenting with hearing loss, dizziness, or vertigo receive comprehensive evaluation and management under one coordinated framework.
Introducing Singapore’s First FDA- and HSA-Approved OTC Hearing Aid In April 2026, EarBalance will launch the CERETONE OTC hearing aid, developed by a Canadian company in partnership with ENTRUST. This marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s hearing care sector, as it represents the first OTC hearing aid approved by both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Designed for individuals with mild hearing loss, CERETONE offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative to traditional prescription hearing aids. The device allows users to manage their hearing needs more independently, making it particularly suitable for those who may not yet be ready to commit to medical-grade solutions.
“This hearing aid is ideal for those with mild hearing loss and who may not be ready for medical-grade prescription hearing aids. We plan to continue expanding the inventory of innovative technological solutions to help people ‘hear better and live better,’” noted Dr Chua.
The CERETONE device combines a user-friendly design with specialised sound processing technology, enabling wearers to adjust settings according to their listening environment. This innovation aligns with EarBalance’s broader mission to “help people hear better and live better” by expanding its portfolio of technological solutions.
Addressing Industry Misconceptions Through Education EarBalance’s latest initiatives also reflect its stance on a persistent challenge within the hearing care industry: The perception of hearing aids as consumer commodities rather than medical interventions.
“The hearing industry has long been shaped by transactional relationships, where hearing aids are viewed as products to be sold,” added Dr Chua. “However, as healthcare professionals, our role is not to sell devices, but to guide patients in making informed decisions about their hearing health.”
This philosophy is particularly important in light of growing evidence linking untreated hearing loss to broader health risks. Studies have shown that up to 8 per cent of modifiable risk factors for dementia may be attributed to hearing loss. Early detection and intervention are therefore critical not only for communication but also for long-term cognitive health.
EarBalance places strong emphasis on patient education, ensuring that individuals understand the implications of hearing loss and the range of available interventions. By shifting the focus from sales to informed care, the clinic aims to foster trust and empower patients to take ownership of their hearing health.
Community Hearing Awareness Initiative to Launch in June 2026 In line with its commitment to public health, EarBalance will co-organise a large-scale community hearing awareness and education event in June 2026. The initiative is a collaboration between ASCENT ENT Group, EarBalance Audiology Clinic, and Thomson Medical Centre, with support from WS Audiology under the WSA (Wonderful Sound for All) foundation.
The event aims to address a critical gap in public awareness regarding hearing health, particularly the importance of early intervention. It will offer a comprehensive programme that includes hearing screenings, educational sessions, and professional consultations.
“Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, reduced communication ability, and even cognitive decline,” Dr. Chua explained. “Through this initiative, we hope to encourage individuals to take proactive steps in managing their hearing health.”
The programme is expected to screen approximately 100 participants, with an estimated 40 to 50 individuals identified as needing hearing amplification support. For those facing financial barriers, refurbished hearing aids will be provided through CSR contributions, ensuring that care is accessible to underserved segments of the community.
A Holistic Approach to Hearing Rehabilitation Beyond screening and education, the June initiative will provide referral pathways for continued care, connecting participants with ENT specialists and audiologists for further evaluation and treatment. This integrated approach ensures that individuals identified with hearing loss receive not only a diagnosis but also actionable solutions.
The programme will also feature hearing health education sessions, designed to demystify common misconceptions and equip participants with practical knowledge about ear care. Topics will include the impact of hearing loss on overall well-being, the benefits of early intervention, and the range of available treatment options.
Media coverage and community engagement will play a key role in amplifying the initiative’s impact. WS Audiology, as a CSR partner, will be recognised through branding on programme materials, event displays, and media campaigns.
Sustainability Through Hearing Aid Upcycling EarBalance is also exploring sustainable practices within the hearing care space, particularly through the upcycling of hearing aids. Recognising that some patients may discontinue use of their devices, the clinic is considering programmes to refurbish and redistribute these aids to individuals in need.
“This initiative addresses two important issues, which are reducing electronic waste and improving access to hearing care,” said Dr Chua. “There are many individuals who could benefit from hearing aids but are unable to afford them. At the same time, there are devices that go unused. Bridging this gap is both a social and environmental responsibility.”
The proposed upcycling programme aligns with EarBalance’s broader vision of responsible healthcare, where innovation is balanced with sustainability and community impact.
Expanding the Scope of Ear Health: Hearing and Balance A defining feature of EarBalance’s clinical approach is its focus on both hearing and balance, which is an often-overlooked aspect of ear health. While hearing loss is widely recognised, balance disorders such as dizziness and vertigo are frequently misunderstood or underdiagnosed.
“Our ears are not just for hearing,” Dr Chua emphasised. “The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. When this system is disrupted, patients may experience dizziness, vertigo, or instability, which can significantly affect their quality of life.”
EarBalance provides specialised assessment and rehabilitation for balance disorders, offering patients a comprehensive solution that addresses both auditory and vestibular health. This dual focus sets the clinic apart in Singapore’s audiology landscape, where balance care is often treated as a separate discipline.
Looking Ahead: Building a Future of Integrated Care As EarBalance continues to expand, it is exploring opportunities to further integrate hearing and balance services within clinical settings, including potential collaborations with Thomson Medical Centre. These efforts aim to create a seamless continuum of care for both adult and paediatric populations.
The clinic’s long-term vision includes the development of community-based programmes that extend beyond one-off initiatives, fostering sustained engagement and awareness around hearing health.
“Our goal is to build a healthcare ecosystem where hearing and balance care are accessible, integrated, and patient-centred,” said Dr Chua. “By combining clinical expertise, technological innovation, and community outreach, we hope to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.” Hashtag: #EarBalance
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About EarBalance Pte. Ltd.
EarBalance Pte. Ltd. is a Singapore-based audiology clinic dedicated to providing comprehensive hearing and balance care. Through a collaborative approach with ENT specialists and a focus on patient education, the clinic offers a range of services, including hearing assessments, hearing aid solutions, and balance rehabilitation. EarBalance is committed to helping individuals hear better and live better through accessible, innovative, and holistic care.
CHENGDU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – Air China launched a direct passenger flight from Chengdu to Brussels, the capital of Belgium, with service starting March 26. This marks Chengdu’s 12th regular direct passenger route to Europe. The inaugural flight recorded a load factor of 95%, with the return leg reaching 85%, underscoring strong market demand.
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
According to Air China’s Southwest Branch, the Chengdu (Tianfu International Airport)-Brussels route offers three round trips per week on the Airbus A330-300, with flights scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Previously, Chengdu had already opened a dedicated all-cargo route to Brussels. The launch of the passenger service now establishes a dual-track system for both passenger and freight transport.
Before the route’s launch, travelers from Chengdu to Brussels typically required a transfer, with the whole journey taking more than 17 hours. The new direct service cuts travel time to under 11 hours, creating a faster and more convenient aerial corridor for economic and trade cooperation, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connectivity between China and Belgium.
This route also represents Chengdu’s first newly launched intercontinental passenger service of the year. To date, the city operates 19 intercontinental passenger routes, including 12 connecting major European cities such as Frankfurt, London, Paris, and Brussels, with nearly 40 weekly flights. Chengdu’s regular international and regional direct routes have now clocked up 85, markedly boosting its global connectivity.
The ever-expanding international flight network has further stimulated inbound tourism. In 2025, Chengdu received 2.38 million inbound tourists, a year-on-year increase of 44.3%, signaling a strong recovery of the inbound tourism market. During the recent 2026 Spring Festival, the city welcomed 77,000 inbound tourists, up 47.2% year on year, with a growing number of international travelers choosing Chengdu as their top destination for experiencing China.
As noted by The Times in its feature on 12 of the Best Places to Visit in China: “Home of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, this city has become a popular stop on many China tours. Foodies will relish their visit—it’s one of the original UNESCO cities of gastronomy, so you’ll find the best of Sichuan cuisine here. Highlights include spicy hotpot, mapo tofu, and the myriad street foods you’ll find outside Chengdu’s many temples. It’s also the departure point for tours to the national parks of Jiuzhai Valley and Huanglong, and the autonomous regions around Sichuan.”
To enhance the travel experience of international passengers, Chengdu has introduced a package of measures covering tax refunds upon payment, language services, smart navigation, and promotional incentives, all aimed at improving convenience and adding to the appeal of inbound tourism. Policies such as instant tax refunds, direct payments via overseas e-wallets, and over 600 tax refund stores have largely facilitated travel for international tourists.
In 2025, Chengdu had more than 6,000 taxi drivers trained in English, and the scenic area Xiling Snow Mountain rolled out an international booking platform supporting real-time translation in 24 languages and transactions in 29 currencies, with multilingual AI translation screens installed across major tourist attractions and transportation hubs in Chengdu.
Meanwhile, Jinli Street—once named by CNN as one of the world’s most beautiful streets—officially introduced the “Open Chengdu” cultural tourism base on February 6. The base features a professional English-language service team, more than 300 bilingual signs, and over 10 bilingual self-service ticketing machines supporting multiple ID types. Across more than 50 locations in Jinli, from museum gift shops to street vendors, international credit cards such as VISA are widely accepted.
In addition, Chengdu Eastern New Area, where Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is located, offers international transit passengers subsidies of up to 400 yuan per person, including 200 for hotel stays, 100 for consumption vouchers, and 100 for railway tickets. Hashtag: #ChengduInformationOffice
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – ACCESS Newswire – 25 March 2026 – Poverty is possibly the most significant limiting factor in terms of access to learning, healthcare, and economic mobility. In less-advantaged communities, education-centered humanitarian programs are necessary to address these constraints.
The Felix Y. Manalo Foundation operates at the forefront of these initiatives by building practical skills, supporting youth development, and strengthening community capacity. In its role as a catalyst for long range social progress, it incorporates academic support, volunteer service, and community outreach within its broader humanitarian mission.
Expanding Access to Learning Resources
For many low-income households, limited access to books, digital tools, and structured learning environments remains a major hindrance to growth and development. Through its educational outreach programs, organizations such as the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation provide learning materials, organize community-based activities, and support youth engagement initiatives that reinforce academic participation.
These efforts can greatly reduce disparities that commonly exist between urban and underserved communities. By providing students with consistent access to educational resources, the foundation helps improve attendance, increase confidence, and pave the way for long-term career paths.
Integrating Skills Development With Community Service
The Felix Y. Manalo Foundation’s approach to education extends beyond classroom instruction, delving into practical experience that encourages problem-solving and teamwork. Program participants have the opportunity to join service projects that introduce responsibility, planning, and communication.
The foundation also implements environmental programs, food distribution activities, and local outreach events, all of which provide structured opportunities for applied learning. By integrating mentorship with volunteer guidance, the organization teaches participants valuable, transferable skills. Consequently, the programs foster workforce readiness while strengthening civic awareness and social responsibility.
The Felix Y. Manalo Foundation’s coordinated food donation programs and volunteer engagement activities in Canada demonstrate how relief efforts enhance household resilience. By addressing basic needs alongside educational outreach, the organization helps develop environments where children can focus on learning rather than worry about their immediate survival.
Operational Discipline and Program Sustainability
The Felix Y. Manalo Foundation’s community service amply demonstrates the value of structured planning, transparent governance, and reliable volunteer coordination. To ensure sustainable impact, accountability has always been core to the organization’s project management, financial stewardship, and compliance practices.
The foundation’s training frameworks are designed to ensure consistent service quality and reinforce ethical standards. Through its organizational oversight, the organization fosters donor confidence and maintains continuous improvement in its education-focused programs.
Through its various education-centred humanitarian programs, the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation directly contributes to economic mobility by improving home stability, increasing community participation, and strengthening individual capability. By integrating learning access with service engagement and operational accountability, the organization ensures the community’s long-term development is measurable and scalable.
Structured educational outreach, volunteer leadership development, and responsible governance are among the practical measures implemented by the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation. Each is one of many ways the organization aims to break cycles of intergenerational poverty while supporting inclusive community growth.
Hashtag: #FelixY.ManaloFoundation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – EQS Newswire – 25 March 2026 – ASMALLWORLD expands its offering with a new Marriott Bonvoy reward expanding its curated portfolio of premium travel benefits and loyalty rewards available across the ASMALLWORLD travel ecosystem.
ASMALLWORLD members can now enjoy access to Marriott Bonvoy points as part of their membership benefits — 35,000 points (Advantage), 250,000 points (Prestige) and 500,000 points (Signature) — bringing added flexibility and value for members who want to elevate their hotel stays worldwide.
“This new benefit marks another important step in strengthening our global travel benefits portfolio and giving members more meaningful ways to unlock exceptional experiences,” said Zain Richardson, CEO of ASMALLWORLD. “By integrating Marriott Bonvoy points into our product offering, we are increasing choice and helping our members turn travel inspiration into memorable stays — whether for a long weekend or a once-in-a-lifetime journey.”
NEW MARRIOTT BONVOY BENEFIT FOR ASMALLWORLD MEMBERS
Marriott Bonvoy is Marriott International’s award-winning travel programme, spanning a global collection of hotel brands and destinations.
Through this partnership, ASMALLWORLD members can include Marriott Bonvoy points as part of their membership benefits, enabling them to use points toward stays that include the largest collection of luxury offerings, distinctive boutique properties, premium home rentals, and more. Members can also unlock once‑in‑a‑lifetime experiences through Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, from exclusive Michelin‑starred culinary journeys to groundbreaking musical world tours. Expanded ways to redeem points range from Shop with Points to curated Tours & Activities, adding another layer of memorable experiences to the ASMALLWORLD membership proposition.
MARRIOTT BONVOY POINTS PACKAGES AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS
ASMALLWORLD members can access the following Marriott Bonvoy points packages as part of their membership selection:
To celebrate the launch of this new benefit, ASMALLWORLD members purchasing Advantage or Prestige memberships will receive a limited time award of 30% bonus points.
EXPANDING PREMIUM TRAVEL BENEFITS
This new benefit reinforces ASMALLWORLD’s commitment to offering members a curated suite of travel privileges across flights, hotels, experiences and lifestyle.
In addition to loyalty rewards, ASMALLWORLD members enjoy a range of premium benefits across the ASMALLWORLD ecosystem, including VIP hotel benefits, elite statuses, airport lounge access options and invitations to exclusive global events.
THE ASMALLWORLD GROUP
Centred around the ASMALLWORLD social network, the company operates a luxury travel ecosystem that serves discerning travellers and industry partners.
At its core, the ASMALLWORLD social network is the trusted community for modern luxury travellers, offering a platform to connect, share experiences and enjoy a wealth of travel privileges.
ASMALLWORLD members can engage through its app and website, receive travel inspiration, and meet in person at over 950 global ASMALLWORLD events every year, ranging from casual get-togethers, access to exclusive launches, galas, major global sporting events, and larger flagship weekend experiences hosted in iconic destinations such as Saint-Tropez and St. Moritz.
Beyond the social network, the ASMALLWORLD Group extends into bespoke travel planning, luxury hospitality, and strategic B2B collaborations. Through its diverse portfolio, the Group fosters a like-minded global community, curated opportunities, and tailored solutions, shaping the evolution of luxury travel.
Other businesses in the ASMALLWORLD travel ecosystem include: ASMALLWORLD Collection, a high-end online hotel booking engine focused on the world’s most admired hotels, offering the unique “ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate,” which combines preferred rates with exclusive travel benefits and privileges.
ASMALLWORLD DISCOVERY, part of Global Hotel Alliance alongside 50 leading hotel brands, services independent hotels in providing access to the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty network
ASMALLWORLD Hospitality, a hospitality and management consultancy that supports owners and developers of hospitality assets throughout the different lifecycle stages of their assets, including acquisition, development, operations and exit.
First Class & More, a subscription-based smart luxury travel service that allows members to enjoy luxury travel at insider prices.
The World’s Finest Clubs, the world’s leading nightlife concierge offers its members VIP access to the most exclusive nightlife venues around the world.
Jetbeds, a premier booking platform specialising in affordable Business and First-Class flights, offering exclusive deals, expert advice and personalised service.
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New all-in-one platform to help businesses develop and deploy at scale with maximum ROI
CHATSWORTH, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2026 – Tintri, the innovator in workload-aware, AI-powered data management, and Platform9, the leader in simplifying enterprise private clouds, today announced a strategic partnership to deliver a bundled AI-ready infrastructure solution that streamlines deployment and reduces operational costs. The out-of-the-box offering makes it simple for enterprises to stand up and scale modern AI systems without the complexity of traditional stacks.
The Problem: AI Is Getting Expensive
Running AI to process and analyze data in real time, requires moving enormous amounts of data at extremely high speeds. Existing infrastructure wasn’t built to manage the sheer volume and velocity of data required for on-demand inferencing and ongoing model training, ultimately causing slowdowns and driving up operational costs. Tintri and Platform9 directly addresses these critical bottlenecks in the by cutting the cost per AI transaction, as low as possible.
What’s in the New Platform
The new offering has two main parts:
1. A powerful data center component built on standard server hardware that can run multiple types of virtual machines and containerized applications side-by-side, without resource impacts. Tintri’s patented technology monitors each application individually, making sure the most critical ones always get the resources they need.
2. An edge AI component designed for capturing real-time data to continuously learn and update inference models.
A core component of the platform is Tintri VMstore, which uniquely runs multiple virtualization platforms and Kubernetes (the industry-standard system for managing containerized applications) all within the same platform. This is a significant differentiator: most competing solutions require separate infrastructure for each. Tintri’s patented technology observes each application individually and guarantees real-time resource delivery, even when the system is under heavy load. This eliminates the “noisy neighbor” problem, where resource-intensive applications steal resources and slow down everything else.
Why It Matters
Many companies today have AI running in multiple locations, either in a central data center, as well as out in the field on cameras, sensors, or other devices. Managing all of that separately is complex and expensive. This new platform unifies the entire setup under one management system (provided by Platform9), so IT teams spend less time juggling tools and more time moving their business forward.
Available now through Tintri’s global network of authorized partners, Phil Trickovic, Senior Vice President of Tintri said:“This launch represents a major milestone in our commitment to providing intelligent, autonomous infrastructure. We’re giving customers the exact tools they need to conquer the complexities of modern AI and edge computing, all while driving down operational costs.”
Hashtag: #Tintri #Platform9
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Tintri
Tintri delivers the industry’s only workload-aware, AI-powered data management platform, built specifically for virtualized and containerized workloads. Its VMstore platform autonomously manages data at the level of individual VMs, containers, and databases; providing per-workload automation, guaranteed QoS, and predictive analytics that eliminate routine tuning and troubleshooting. Recognized for this innovative approach, Tintri was named “Overall Data Storage Company of the Year” in the 2025 Data Breakthrough Awards. Learn more at tintri.com.
About Platform9
Platform9 is the leader in simplifying enterprise private clouds. The company’s flagship product, Private Cloud Director, has all of VMware’s enterprise-grade features today along with private cloud features for the future. Platform9 was founded by a team of VMware cloud pioneers and has over tens of thousands of nodes in production at some of the world’s largest enterprises. Platform9 is an inclusive, globally distributed company backed by prominent investors, committed to driving private cloud innovation and efficiency. For more information, go to: https://platform9.com/.