ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – What happens when the world’s most iconic chocolate triangle meets one of the world’s most craved biscuits? Toblerone introduces its Diamond Truffles with rich Biscoff® spread filling and crunchy honey and almond nougat pieces inside a creamy milk chocolate diamond. Now launching across key global markets in two formats, including a 495g premium box exclusive to Costco.
An Iconic Duo: Toblerone Launches Pralines with Biscoff®
A New Chapter in Toblerone Innovation
In 2024, Toblerone introduced its distinctive diamond-shaped truffles to the market, marking a bold step beyond the brand’s legendary triangular bar. The launch proved a resounding category success, redefining what consumers expect from premium boxed chocolates. Now, Toblerone takes this innovation further with a partnership that is set to captivate chocolate lovers worldwide: Toblerone Diamond Truffles with Biscoff®.
Each diamond-shaped truffle is individually crafted from smooth Toblerone milk chocolate, filled with smooth Biscoff® spread and finished with crunchy nougat pieces. The result: the unmistakable caramelised taste and crunchy texture of Biscoff®, elevated by Toblerone’s signature chocolate craftsmanship.
An Iconic Duo: Toblerone Launches Pralines with Biscoff®
When Two Global Icons Unite
Biscoff® has become one of the world’s most sought-after biscuits, transcending categories and cultures. This collaboration between Toblerone and Biscoff® represents a strategic partnership that unites two iconic brands to create something truly new in the premium chocolate category – a product that meets growing consumer demand for innovative, indulgent experiences.
Iain Livingston, President Toblerone & World Travel Retail at Mondelēz International, proudly says: “Toblerone has always stood for being never square, and celebrating unapologetic indulgence. With our diamond-shaped truffles already proving a category success, combining them with globally loved Biscoff®, was a natural next step. People look for surprising combinations of familiar tastes, and this is a collaboration that only two icons could bring to life. We couldn’t be more excited to share it with the world.”
The excitement is shared by Lotus Bakeries as Isabelle Maes, Chief Marketing Officer at Lotus Bakeries, emphasizes: “Biscoff®‘s unique caramelised taste and crunchy texture have become a global phenomenon, loved across cultures and age groups. Partnering with Toblerone – a brand synonymous with quality and indulgence – allows us to bring our iconic Biscoff ® biscuit and spread experience to consumers in an entirely new and exciting format.”
The Perfect Treat – Available in Two Formats Across Key Global Markets
Toblerone Diamond Truffles with Biscoff® are available in two pack sizes to meet different consumer occasions – perfect for gifting, sharing, or an indulgent treat:
495g premium box – an exclusive format launching with retailer Costco across the United States, Canada, Taiwan, Australia, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Sweden, Iceland as well as New Zealand.
180g sharing box – available in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Switzerland, and Australia. More to follow.
The exclusive Costco deal represents a landmark moment for Mondelēz International and its Toblerone brand, marking the first time the company has partnered with Costco to launch a product range on a global scale. Another testament to the strength of both the Toblerone brand and the universal appeal of Biscoff®. Hashtag: #Toblerone #Biscoff #NeverSquare
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Toblerone
In 1908, Theodor Tobler and Emil Baumann (production manager and Tobler’s cousin) invented a unique chocolate: Toblerone! “Toblerone” is a portmanteau of the names “Tobler” and “Torrone,” the Italian term for honey-almond nougat. Its distinctive feature is the triangular bar shape. Since 1985, production has been based in Bern Brünnen, where employees work with great passion every day to ensure the production of up to 4 million Toblerone products. Today, around 90 percent of Toblerone products sold worldwide are manufactured in Bern.
Toblerone has never been square. Not in shape. Not in spirit. And not in ambition. Never Square is the belief that the best things in life refuse to conform and that the most interesting gifts are rarely the obvious ones.
Biscoff®
Since 1932, Biscoff® has been delighting consumers’ taste buds with its delicious caramelised taste and crunchy texture. Originally from Belgium but now loved all over the world, Lotus Biscoff® cookies were first brought to market by Jan Boone Sr., who created a caramelised cookie using only natural ingredients. This unique recipe and cookie remain the basis of our three hero products: the original Lotus® Biscoff® cookie, the Lotus® Biscoff® sandwich cookie and the Lotus® Biscoff spread. Whether they are enjoyed at home, on the go, at the office or on a flight, Biscoff® provides everyone around the world with a unique moment to truly enjoy!
Asia Pacific family offices report the highest portfolio outperformance globally, with 26% achieving returns above 15% year-to-date, while 22% target annual returns exceeding 15%, nearly double the global average.
The region expresses the most interest in AI for new direct investment activity.
Watch Citi Wealth’s Global Family Office leadership discuss the report’s findings here.
HONG KONG SAR / SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – Citigroup Inc. (NYSE: C) – Citi Wealth today released its 2026 Global Family Office Report, offering an inside perspective into the thinking and behaviors of the world’s most sophisticated investors. The report was compiled by Citi Wealth’s Global Family Office Group, which works with more than 1,900 family offices worldwide.
Conducted in June and July 2026, the survey sheds light on how over 350 family offices in more than 40 countries – with 22% from APAC – are navigating new complexities in an era defined by uncertainty.
“Family Offices globally are balancing conviction with resilience, opportunity with discipline, and growth with stewardship,” says Dawn Nordberg, Head of Integrated Client Solutions and the Global Family Office Group, Citi Wealth. “As leading institutional investors, they are deploying capital, building capabilities and creating continuity in ways that will shape future generations. We are committed to empowering our family office clients by providing clarity and specialized expertise to navigate this new era.”
Within APAC,key themes that emerged from this year’s survey include:
Strongest Portfolio Outperformance: APAC family offices reported the highest levels of portfolio outperformance, with 26% achieving returns above 15% year-to-date. They also demonstrated the most ambitious return objectives, with 22% targeting annual returns exceeding 15%, nearly double the global average. This seems to be in part driven by the overall strong performance of public equity markets in the region this year, with the Nikkei 225 up approximately 30% through mid-June.
Active Management Leads the Response: APAC family offices were the most proactive globally in responding to market volatility, with 62% adopting active management and 49% implementing hedging strategies, significantly above global averages. The findings suggest a greater sophistication in risk management. Rather than viewing risk management as a defensive exercise, family offices increasingly approach it actively, as tactical portfolio adjustments rather than significant strategic repositioning.
Direct Investing Remains a Core Strength: APAC posted the highest direct-investing participation rate globally at 79%. Family offices in APAC also demonstrated the strongest preference for internal teams as the leading source of direct investment opportunities (77%), suggesting a high degree of investment professionalization and institutional sourcing capabilities.
AI Dominates New Investment Themes: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become the standout direct investment opportunity for APAC family offices, with 80% identifying AI as a primary sector focus, the highest of any region, complemented by strong interest in healthcare, robotics and software opportunities. APAC family offices also demonstrated the highest overall comfort with digital assets, with half of them reporting no significant barriers to digital asset adoption.
Top Concerns: Stability of the global financial system (53%) and market volatility (52%) emerged as the top concerns for APAC family offices, with both cited at significantly higher levels than in other regions. This heightened sensitivity may be due in part to the oil blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, as 85% of oil destined for Asian markets travels through this channel.
“The 2026 survey findings point to a maturing family office landscape in Asia Pacific, characterized by entrepreneurial thinking, institutional-quality investment practices and a strong appetite for global connectivity,” says Bernard Wai, Head of Asia for Integrated Client Solutions and Global Family Office, Citi Wealth. “Family offices across Asia Pacific have evolved to become increasingly sophisticated, requiring the talent, setup and governance for a sovereign wealth fund (“SWF”)-like investment mindset. Whether it is expanding into direct investing programs, leveraging AI interfaces, or executing cross-border tax-aware transactions, family offices here are taking a more holistic approach to wealth stewardship. Citi Wealth is committed to supporting all of this, with our OneCiti offering.”
Globally,key themes that emerged from this year’s survey include:
Strong Performance in the Face of Rising Uncertainty: Despite shifting macroeconomic indicators and geopolitical concerns, nearly 90% of respondents reported positive portfolio performance year-to-date, while 41% continue to target annual returns of 7% to 10%. Clients are optimistic but not complacent as moderate expectations for returns coexist with concerns around inflation, interest rates and financial stability. Long-term discipline remains a crucial competitive advantage.
Managing Risk Without Abandoning Opportunity: Recent geopolitical developments tested portfolios but did not trigger widespread retrenchment. Family offices avoided wholesale portfolio repositioning, opting instead for active management, hedging strategies and targeted adjustments. More than 40% of respondents made no major changes, while others remained laser-focused on improving portfolio resilience without compromising their strategic objectives. With a growing sophistication in risk management, family offices are embracing an active capability that allows them to stay invested during periods of uncertainty.
Public Equities Return to Leadership: Public markets have regained momentum as investors seek a combination of growth, liquidity and flexibility. Nearly half of respondents increased their public equity exposure during the year, making it the top destination for new capital. Global developed equities ranked as the most favored asset class for future net allocations. Portfolio allocations overall remained well diversified, with many family offices maintaining positions in private equity, fixed income, and cash. In an environment where returns are increasingly driven by fundamentals rather than valuation expansion, quality matters more than ever.
Private Markets Remain Central to Growth: Private markets remain a strategic pillar of family office portfolios with private equity attracting significant capital, direct investing continuing to increase and growth-stage opportunities generating strong interest. However, family offices are becoming more selective with a greater emphasis on sourcing, expertise and differentiated access. Connectivity has emerged as a competitive advantage.
AI Shifts from Experimentation to Implementation: Family offices are deploying AI across investment analysis, information management, reporting, workflow automation and decision support processes. With an emphasis on productivity rather than alpha generation, they report benefits such as faster information processing, improved efficiency and enhanced due diligence capabilities. Family offices are prioritizing productivity before using AI to drive investment returns, and ensuring final decisions are still made by experienced humans.
Rising Globalization Brings Heightened Complexity: Family wealth is increasingly international, with 38% of respondents expecting family globalization to rise in the next five years. With many respondents reporting assets, businesses and family members located across multiple jurisdictions, tax coordination, asset structuring, regulatory compliance and cross-border planning are becoming larger responsibilities for family offices. Building cross-border expertise will be essential as rising global complexity becomes a foundational aspect of family wealth.
Succession Emerges as an Immediate Priority: Approximately one-third of respondents anticipate leadership transitions in their family, family office, or family business within the next five years. Yet respondents cite unclear succession plans, insufficient readiness among future leaders and lack of alignment around future vision as significant challenges. Succession planning needs to extend beyond identifying future leaders to ensure continuity of family values, unity and governance across generations. Next generation development is a priority as educational programs, governance participation, advisor engagement and hands-on learning opportunities are being utilized to prepare future generations.
Alexandre Monnier, Head of Family Office Advisory, Citi Wealth added: “As the world around us becomes more complex, family offices are uniquely positioned to build resilient portfolios, reimagine their operations and professionalize in ways that enable their families to achieve ambitious goals. By leveraging Citi’s global reach and deep capabilities, we are proud to partner with family offices around the world to help them prepare future generations and preserve and grow wealth.”
Click HERE to download the photo and Citi Wealth Family Office Report 2026
About theSurvey This year’s survey was initiated during Citi Wealth’s 11th Annual Family Office Leadership Summit in June 2026. The event was attended by over 150 Family Office leaders from more than 25 countries, with an average family net worth of $2.1 billion. The approximately 50 question survey was subsequently opened to the wider population of Family Office clients globally with 351 clients from 41 countries responding in June and July 2026.
About the Global Family Office Group Citi Wealth’s Global Family Office Group serves single Family Offices, private investment companies and private holding companies, including family-owned enterprises and foundations, around the world. The team offers clients comprehensive private banking and advisory services, institutional access to global opportunities and connections to a community of like-minded peers.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Citi
Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee announced the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) (2026-2030) and his fifth Policy Address on September 16, rolling out measures to further sharpen Hong Kong’s edge amid global competition, consolidate development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and promote green transformation.
Initiatives aim to support high-quality development of the GBA, align rules and mechanisms within the region, and promote cross-boundary collaboration.
“The HKSAR Government will continue its efforts in fostering synergistic development of the GBA,” said Mr Lee. “We will strengthen co‑operation in technological innovation, promote ‘hard connectivity’ in infrastructure, foster ‘soft connectivity’ by deepening the alignment of rules and mechanisms, and achieve ‘connectivity of hearts’ among residents of the three places.”
The HKSAR Government will continue to actively participate in the development of the various major co-operation platforms, including Qianhai of Shenzhen, Nansha of Guangzhou, Hengqin of Zhuhai and the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Co-operation Zone, to promote mutual benefits.
In terms of “hard connectivity” the HKSAR Government will support Nansha in its role as a high‑standard gateway for opening up, including encouraging the trade to participate in Nansha’s infrastructure development.
“To promote the co‑ordinated development of rail transit in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, we are pressing ahead with the Northern Link Project and the Hong Kong‑Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu‑Qianhai), with target commissioning in 2034 and 2035 respectively, to fully connect the rail transit networks of Hong Kong and Shenzhen,” Mr Lee said.
Regarding “soft connectivity”, Mr Lee said the HKSAR Government will set up a Task Force to explore ways to advance the alignment of rules and mechanisms within the GBA.
To achieve “Connectivity of Hearts” among residents across the GBA, Hong Kong will strengthen co-operation between its higher education institutions and those in other GBA cities by establishing cross‑disciplinary partnerships, facilitating scientific research, knowledge transfer, and commercialisation, with a view to promoting high‑level research.
Hong Kong’s Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Janice Tse, noted that the First Five-Year Plan clearly states that Hong Kong will participate in the development of the GBA into an international first‑class bay area and a world‑class city cluster with global influence.
“Hong Kong will forge closer alignment and synergy with the nine GBA cities in Guangdong Province and Macao, making full use of our respective advantages to jointly promote the high-quality development of the GBA,” Miss Tse said.
To foster financial development in the GBA, Hong Kong will continue to capitalise on institutional innovation, financial infrastructure upgrading and enhanced regulatory alignment to encourage the orderly flow of financial elements among GBA cities.
The Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited’s Core Climate, in collaboration with the Guangzhou Power Exchange Centre, is working towards the pilot trading of national renewable‑energy, green electricity certificates in Hong Kong in 2026.
“On connecting the Chinese Mainland and the world, the HKSAR Government will continue to support green technology development through the HK$400 million (aboutUS$51 million) Green Tech Fund, leveraging Hong Kong’s function as a springboard for green technology and assisting national green technologies and products in going global,” said Hong Kong’sSecretary for Environment and Ecology, Tse Chin-wan. “On the development of hydrogen energy, we have participated in drafting national hydrogen energy standards with a view to helping these standards align with international practice.”
To meet the country’s “dual carbon” targets and fulfil Hong Kong’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality before 2050, the HKSAR Government steered the establishment of a production base for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in Dongguan, leveraging the leading position of Hong Kong enterprises in the international SAF industry.
“By combining technology strengths with industrial foundation, Hong Kong and Guangdong will jointly develop a globally influential green industry,” Mr Lee said.
The HKSAR Government will take forward the construction of an SAF blending facility in Hong Kong to build an end‑to‑end SAF value chain and reduce logistics costs to make SAF prices more competitive. The target is to achieve an SAF consumption ratio of 1% to 3% for flights departing from Hong Kong International Airport in 2030.
Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan promotes the integrated development of culture, sports, and tourism, to develop the GBA into a cultured bay area.
Under the strategic framework of the Agreement on Strengthening of Sports Cooperation and Promotion of Integrated Development, Hong Kong will deepen co-operation, and strive to co‑organise important regional and international single‑sport events. It will also strengthen cultural exchanges, pass on Cantonese opera and the characteristics of Lingnan culture, and promote the sales and cross‑boundary exhibition of Hong Kong publications.
Inspiring Asia Launched by HKAWL in Hong Kong for the First Time to Support its Impact Link Initiative to Foster Community Empowerment, Exchange and Strategic Philanthropy
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – The Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy (HKAWL) brought the Inspiring Asia Micro Film Festival to Hong Kong for the first time as Regional Lead Partner, and recognised three winning entries at the inaugural Hong Kong regional awards. The festival culminated in a Screening and Award Ceremony on 21 September 2026 at The Hong Kong Jockey Club University of Chicago Academic Complex | The University of Chicago Francis and Rose Yuen Campus in Hong Kong, and was supported by Lee Hysan Foundation as Strategic Partner and Sponsor.
The inaugural “Inspiring Asia” Hong Kong Regional Awards introduced by the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy has successfully concluded. Hong Kong’s winning entries and selected finalists will advance to the Main Phase of Inspiring Asia.
Guided by the theme “Community Empowerment” and the tagline “Belonging, Resilience, and Thriving”, participating filmmakers, students and community changemakers shared stories that explored inclusion, connection and resilience. The Festival encourages creators and community organisations to document community stories through micro films, fostering dialogue and greater social participation.
Award-Winning Films Spotlight Inclusion, Resilience and Community Connection
The three winning entries reflected these aspirations through stories of cross-cultural friendship, ageing with purpose and disability inclusion, offering perspectives on experiences that are often overlooked in everyday conversations.
A chance encounter lies at the heart of Between the Unsaid, the winner of the Best Micro Film Award, as an unexpected friendship blossoms between a Pakistani tailor and a local florist. Directed by Qasim Khan and produced by Kaneeta Arshad, the Hong Kong drama shows how kindness can cross linguistic and cultural boundaries, bringing comfort amid grief and isolation.
Best Micro Film
The Story Hunter, winner of the Best AI Film Award, follows an 80-year-old Hong Kong resident who finds renewed purpose by sharing lived experiences. Created by Yimin Chen and Ethan Wong, the drama combines human-written script with AI-assisted production to amplify older adults’ voices and value as storytellers, mentors and active contributors to the community.
Best AI Film
Recipient of the Best Project Award, The Superpower of Little Hands challenges perceptions of congenital limb differences through stories co-created by children and parents from the Hand in Hand Association. The documentary shows how peer support, inclusion and understanding can build confidence, belonging and ambition.
Best Project
Empowering Communities Beyond the Awards
As a flagship annual event of HKAWL’s Impact Link initiative, the Festival reflects its wider efforts to foster dialogue between philanthropy, the social sector and the creative community. As Regional Lead Partner, HKAWL worked with a diverse network of partners to support the Festival’s Hong Kong debut. Beyond the competition itself, Inspiring Asia serves as a platform for capacity building, community participation and collaborative philanthropy, bringing together filmmakers, NGOs, foundations, universities and other partners through activities such as workshops, mentorship, screenings and peer exchange.
“Seeing these powerful community stories come to life on screen was incredibly moving,” said Angel Chia, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy. “The winning films demonstrate how storytelling can help people better understand the realities and aspirations of different communities. As a flagship annual event of HKAWL’s Impact Link initiative, Inspiring Asia connects creators and social impact organisations with philanthropists and supporters, helping foster dialogue around strategic philanthropy.”
The journey continues as Hong Kong’s winning entries and selected finalists advance to the Main Phase of Inspiring Asia, bringing their Hong Kong stories to audiences across Asia.
The Screening and Award Ceremony marked the festival’s conclusion in the city, but its impact in creating lasting change continues well beyond the event. In particular, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Programme on Social Innovation (HKJCPSI), operated by The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, will provide capacity-building resources to the Best Project Award winner and shortlisted project teams, helping them strengthen their organisational capabilities and advance the community initiatives featured in their films.
Extending the impact further, the stories will continue to resonate across wider audiences through community screenings from October to December 2026, enabling more people to learn about the experiences and issues they bring to light. Screening details will be announced through HKAWL’s official channels.
Appendix: Hong Kong Regional Competition Award Winners
Award Category
Film Title
Director / Producer
Film Synopsis
Best Micro Film
Between the Unsaid
Qasim Khan, Kaneeta Arshad
The film features Saira, a Pakistani shopkeeper in Hong Kong who is isolated by loneliness, homesickness, and a language barrier. After the sudden loss of her mother, an unexpected friendship with local florist Kim brings comfort, showing how kindness and empathy can bridge cultural and linguistic divides to create strong communities.
Best AI Film
The Story Hunter
Yimin Chen, Ethan Wong
The film follows Granny Fa, an 80-year-old widow living alone like an isolated island — until Story Hunters knocked on her door and walked with her through storytelling training. She brought her real-life experiences to university stages, and the warm applause from the younger generation rekindled her passion for life. In the end, she becomes a Story Hunter herself, knocking on the next closed door.
Best Project
The Superpower of Little Hands
Hand in Hand Association
Produced by Hand in Hand Association, Hong Kong’s first patient self-help organisation for congenital hand differences, this joyful documentary moves beyond traditional narratives of pity. It highlights four vibrant children with hand differences, celebrating their unique talents, creativity, and zest for life. By showcasing a strong peer-support network of families empowering one another, the film demonstrates how love, confidence, and supportive community allow every special hand to shine without limits.
Hashtag: #HKAWL
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy (HKAWL)
The Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy (HKAWL) is committed to invigorating a vibrant ecosystem for family offices worldwide by fostering knowledge sharing, capacity building, peer connection, and collaboration. It equips business and wealth owners and inheritors with knowledge in building enduring family legacies, while mobilising family capital to drive measurable social impact and facilitating a strategic philanthropy platform via its Impact Link initiative. By bridging wealth with purpose, HKAWL reinforces Hong Kong’s status as a principal centre for managing family wealth legacies.
Established in 2015, Under Production Ltd. (UP) is a dynamic social enterprise dedicated to empowering aspiring creative talents. By bridging the gap between youth and the creative industries, UP equips creators with production expertise and social awareness to transform complex issues into compelling narratives. UP’s expertise spans three core pillars: Film & Video Production, Multi-platform Publishing, and Integrated Campaign Management. Notable projects include social films Constellation and May It Rain, which have gained recognition for their intimate storytelling on social themes. Over the years, UP has built a sustainable creative ecosystem with NGO partners and community collaborators, consistently delivering innovative solutions that create lasting community impact.
About Lee Hysan Foundation (LHF)
Lee Hysan Foundation (LHF) is a private foundation incorporated in 1973 by the Lee Hysan Family to institutionalise the philanthropic work which the family had been doing for many decades. It currently operates as an endowment fund in perpetuity and does not fundraise. LHF’s mission is to advance the well-being of Hong Kong by catalysing policy and systemic change and scaling evidence-based models to transform Education, Social Welfare, Health, Arts and Culture, and the Environment. Through this work, LHF seeks to enable under-resourced people from diverse backgrounds to flourish.
*Although established by the same family, Hysan Development Company Limited is operated separately from LHF and has its own independent management and board of directors.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – On September 17, the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo opened in Nanning, Guangxi. Dong Junfeng, Chairman of China UnionPay and UnionPay International, attended the event and participated in the China-ASEAN Financial Cooperation and Development Forum.
Centering on the development of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 and marking the fifth anniversary of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, this year’s expo focused on deepening the integration of artificial intelligence and the real economy. UnionPay leverages AI technology and connectivity to enhance the effectiveness of China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation and drive the high-quality development of the digital ecosystem.
Driving AI-Powered Real Economy to Build New Advantages for ASEAN Digital and Intelligent Finance
Based on Guangxi’s strategic position as a gateway to the ASEAN region, UnionPay is building an “AI + finance” innovation hub characterized by integrations in Guangxi, service delivery to ASEAN, and wider reach across the Asia-Pacific. Collaborations in progress include the development of high-quality, ASEAN-oriented financial corpora for AI training, the assessment and testing of the China-ASEAN financial AI service sharing network, and the co-creation of Guangxi’s alliance for combating telecom fraud.
Powered by the AI-driven risk control system that it has developed in-house, UnionPay continues to strengthen cross-border risk governance. The Out-of-Band (OOB) enhanced authentication implementation has seen the overall fraud rate of pilot banks drop by 90% against pre-deployment levels. UnionPay is also collaborating with overseas terminal manufacturers to roll out intelligent upgrades on their devices, effectively preventing various cross-border payment risks and making cross-border financial services easier to use and more secure.
Echoing the expo’s highlights, the UnionPay exhibition area also featured immersive experience zones for intelligent in-vehicle systems and smart glasses, showing how the Agentic Payment Open Protocol (APOP) framework enables the end-to-end integration of services and AI-powered payment in multiple use cases. The intuitive presentations demonstrated the efficacy of the financial AI product cycle that starts with R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, integration in Guangxi, and eventually ends with application in the ASEAN nations. They also showcased AI’s innovative value in powering the real economy and upgrading the financial sector.
Connecting Cross-Border Payment Rails to Drive Regional Economic and Trade Integration
This year’s expo also featured a dedicated area for matching supply and demand in AI-powered procurement. Focusing on the three themes of “Procurement in China,” “Export to China,” and “Investment in China,” UnionPay continues to refine its payment service system for ASEAN by strengthening the infrastructure for regional economic and trade connectivity.
UnionPay’s acceptance network has expanded to ten ASEAN countries, covering over 38 million QR merchants in the region. Contactless payment acceptance at POS terminals and ATMs, as well as local card issuance, is also available extensively in these markets. In multiple ASEAN countries, UnionPay is creating benchmarks for cross-border connectivity under the government-to-government cooperation model. A prime example is the China-Indonesia QR payment linkage that went live this past June, bringing the number of UnionPay’s overseas QR merchants to over 46 million. The interoperability of payment network standards and the integration of the systems involved have also been completed with many other ASEAN members. For example, the cooperation between China and Vietnam is accelerating. A single integration of systems has ensured standards harmonization, allowing Chinese consumers to use their wallets in Vietnam, while work is underway to enable the acceptance of Vietnam-based wallets in China.
Building on retail payment connectivity, UnionPay continues to broaden its service offerings. To meet the needs arising from the cross-border expansion of enterprises and industrial chains, UnionPay leverages its self-developed integrated information service platform for cross-border B2B transactions to create digital payment solutions for emerging business models, such as cross-border e-commerce and flight and hotel services, empowering industry partners in the process.
Upgrading Cross-Border Consumer Services to Unlock Potential for New Use Cases of AI-Powered Purchasing
This year’s expo placed a strong focus on the upgrade of everyday consumption. A first-ever “AI product marketplace” was set up that promoted cross-border AI-driven consumer purchasing. Addressing the various needs of business people and general consumers visiting China during their travel cycles, which ranges from transport, shopping to the final departure from the country, UnionPay has launched the Nihao China App, an all-in-one platform of intelligent and digital cross-border services. The solution targeted precisely the above needs of the ASEAN businesses and consumers during the expo. Supporting easy sign-up with international mobile numbers and email addresses, the Nihao China App allows users to pay via mainstream Chinese QR codes without needing to link a Chinese bank card. The app provides multilingual assistance across high-frequency use cases in 27 languages, such as cross-border shopping, cultural tourism, transit, and everyday purchases. The app also facilitates departure tax refunds by streamlining the process for travelers, closing the payment loop with an intelligent, all-inclusive service.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
An immersive journey through dreams, gratitude and love, complemented by new lifestyle experiences at Galaxy Promenade
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 -Founded upon its commitment to enriching Macau’s cultural landscape and curating world-class lifestyle experiences, Galaxy Macau proudly collaborates with acclaimed Chinese contemporary sculptor Gao Xiaowu to present Dream Voyage @ Galaxy Resort: Gao Xiaowu’s Art Exhibition at Galaxy Promenade, the integrated resort’s immersive luxury shopping destination. Art Exhibition at Galaxy Promenade, the integrated resort’s premier luxury shopping destination.
Running from now until 17 November, the exhibition showcases six groups of Gao’s representative works across five thematic chapters, inviting guests to reflect on dreams, personal growth, gratitude and love while embarking on an inspirational journey of self-discovery.
The exhibition unfolds in five chapters that explore different stages of life and the pursuit of dreams. From the hope and imagination embodied in “Dreams Begin”, to the celebration of individuality in “Breaking the Mold”; to “Dreams Return”, which encourages visitors to reconnect with their original aspirations and re-examine their dreams, and “Gratitude Shared”, a tribute to sincere appreciation; the journey culminates in “Love Expressed”, illustrating how love serves as a powerful force that sustains dreams and strengthens meaningful connection.
The Opening Ceremony was held on 21 September, officiated by guests of honour, including Mr Cheng Wai Tong, Acting Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (3rd from right); Mr Ho Hong Pan, Head of Department for Promoting Cultural and Creative Industries of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau SAR Government (2nd from left); Mr Philip Cheng, Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group (2nd from right); Ms Eileen Lui, Group Director of Human Resources and Administration of Galaxy Entertainment Group (1st from left); and artist Mr Gao Xiaowu (1st from right).
The opening ceremony was held yesterday afternoon and officiated by distinguished guests including Mr Cheng Wai Tong, Acting Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office; Mr Ho Hong Pan, Head of Department for Promoting Cultural and Creative Industries of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau SAR Government; Mr Philip Cheng, Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group; Ms Eileen Lui, Group Director of Human Resources and Administration of Galaxy Entertainment Group and the title feature artist, Mr Gao Xiaowu.
Dream Voyage @Galaxy Resort: Gao Xiaowu’s Art Exhibition invites guests on an inspiring journey through dreams, gratitude and love through five thought-provoking thematic chapters. The exhibition is open now until 17 November at Galaxy Promenade.
Adding a distinctive, authentic local dimension to the exhibition, Galaxy Macau has partnered with the Macau Artist Society to invite six emerging Macau artists, alongside participating fashion and lifestyle brands from Galaxy Promenade, to reinterpret Gao Xiaowu’s iconic Future Dreams’ in mini sculpture. Through their own artistic expression, each collaborator imbues the work with unique colours, creativity and perspectives. In addition, guests are invited to express their talent at the Colour Your Angel Workshop, where they can personalise a Future Dreams mini sculpture with their own creative touch, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind artistic keepsake and bringing home a treasured memory from their dream voyage.
One of China’s most recognised contemporary sculptors who is widely recognised for the philosophy of “the moment that is” and the practice of “popular arts”, Gao Xiaowu seeks inspiration from the experiences, emotions and aspirations of ordinary people. Through a visual language characterised by humour, warmth and accessibility, Gao explores urban life, social issues and human connection, while conveying a strong sense of empathy and public engagement.
The exhibition is also presented in collaboration with the Macau Artist Society, bringing together six emerging Macau artists and fashion brands from Galaxy Promenade to participate in a collaborative art initiative. Each has reimagined mini sculpture of Gao Xiaowu’s iconic Future Dreams sculpture, infusing the works with their own distinctive colours and creative interpretations.
Through this exhibition, Galaxy Macau invites guests, visitors and art enthusiasts alike to embark on a dream voyage, rediscovering the significance of aspiration, the value of gratitude and the warmth and connection that love brings.
A Larger-than-Life Dream Friend Arrives at Pearl Lobby
Extending the exhibition’s spirit of imagination, art and wonder beyond the gallery space, Galaxy Macau will welcome Dream Friend, a large-scale sculptural installation of a mechanical plush cat at Pearl Lobby from 1 October to 19 November.
Nestled inside a giant suitcase, the larger-than-life feline will delight guests with playful movements and lifelike interactions throughout the day. Dream Friend brings to life a whimsical world where art and fantasy intertwine, creating an unforgettably immersive and highly shareable experience for guests of all ages.
Guests who fall in love with Dream Friend can also take the experience home. Galaxy Promenade will launch a collection of three limited-edition Dream Friend blind-box figurines, available for redemption with qualifying purchases, allowing visitors to relive the joy of their dream-filled journey with this treasured keepsake.
Arriving at Pearl Lobby on 1 October, Dream Friend will captivate guests with lifelike movements, playful interactions and countless photo-worthy moments through 19 November.
Extend the Fun and Immersive Journey at Galaxy Promenade with New Discoveries
Beyond the exciting exhibitions, guests are invited to discover Galaxy Promenade’s latest luxury, dining and lifestyle offerings, creating a multifaceted journey that seamlessly blends art, fashion, gastronomy and contemporary living.
Recently unveiled at Pearl Lobby, Ralph Lauren‘s new boutique at Galaxy Macau brings the signature brand of American sophistication to the award-winning integrated resort. Guests can discover Purple Label and Collection, both available exclusively in Macau at the Galaxy Macau boutique. Complementing the retail experience is Ralph’s Coffee, the first and only location in Macau, where visitors can enjoy Ralph Lauren’s signature coffee blends, specialty beverages and exquisite, freshly made desserts in an elegant and welcoming setting.
Ralph Lauren is open now at Pearl Lobby alongside Macau’s only Ralph’s Coffee, creating a sophisticated destination for fashion and coffee enthusiasts.
Moose Knuckles’ first standalone store in Hong Kong and Macau is now officially open at Galaxy Promenade. Celebrated for its bold design aesthetic, exceptional craftsmanship and fusion of luxury and performance, the brand has garnered a loyal global following among fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters alike. The arrival of the Canadian luxury lifestyle brand further enriches Galaxy Promenade’s fashion forward, international portfolio. Guests will receive an exclusive inaugural store opening gift with any purchase from now until 30 September, while stocks last.
From 26 September, Galaxy Promenade visitors can also visit the newly opened Starbucks Reserve™ Coffee Experience Store, located along Promenade Central and just moments away from Dream Voyage @Galaxy Resort: Gao Xiaowu’s Art Exhibition. Here, the aroma of expertly crafted coffee complements the surrounding artistic atmosphere, adding another layer of inspiration and sensory enjoyment to the dream voyage.
In addition, a roster of renowned international luxury and contemporary brands have already established at Galaxy Promenade, with more set to arrive soon, including a new Loro Piana boutique, Scents Library, APM Monaco, vinavast, a refreshed On store and a Versace pop-up boutique adding to the cutting-edge and immersive experiential brand showcase.
As the world-class integrated resort destination encompassing art, culture, entertainment, luxury retail and exceptional dining experiences, Galaxy Macau continues to enrich Macau’s tourism offerings through innovative and inspiring experiences. Dream Voyage @Galaxy Resort: Gao Xiaowu’s Art Exhibition represents another milestone in Galaxy Macau’s commitment to advancing cultural and artistic development while supporting Macau’s vision as a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.
By bringing together internationally acclaimed contemporary art, local creative talent and enriching lifestyle experiences, the exhibition offers visitors from around the world a meaningful and inspiring artistic journey.
The brand-new Galaxy Resort App and Galaxy Rewards membership programme transform shopping at Galaxy Macau, connecting guests to over 200 luxury and lifestyle brands through exclusive rewards, member privileges and personalised offers. Designed to inspire discovery and enhance every visit, the platform makes each shopping journey more rewarding than ever. Download today at www.galaxymacau.com/galaxy-resort-app/.
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT
Galaxy Macau, 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 metres, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-metre high and 150-metre 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; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theatres are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its 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 well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.
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-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
Introducing Singapore’s first AI Comic Storyboard Photo Booth, Cheese Effects places guests within customisable comic narratives. Combining AI-generated comic characters with tailored storylines, artwork and branding, each photo becomes a personalised storyboard available digitally or in print.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – A photo booth snapshot can now turn into a personalised comic adventure. Cheese Effects, a Singapore photo booth company, officially launched the country’s first AI Comic Storyboard Photo Booth in July 2026, combining an in-house-developed workflow with AI-powered personalisation to generate guest-led storyboards in seconds.
How AI Storyboard Photobooth works
Rewriting the AI Photo Booth Experience
With AI adoption among SMEs in Singapore rising from 4.2% in 2023 to 14.5% in 2024, according to IMDA, the technology is seeing wider local uptake. Cheese Effects has seen growing requests for AI booth concepts customised to events, campaigns and brands. This led the company to develop an original storyboard format where guests star in a comic storyline, a format its market research found no other direct equivalent in the local market at launch.
A New Chapter for Interactive Photo Booths
The AI Comic Storyboard Photo Booth joins Cheese Effects’ interactive concepts, including its Face Tag Photo Booth, AI Cartoon Mood Sticker Photo Booth and Neon Scribble Video Booth. For the comic experience, it uses a three-layer workflow that identifies the main character, generates the guest in comic style, then replaces the original character with the guest, producing each storyboard in approximately 10 to 20 seconds. Clients can customise the storyline, layout, artwork, characters, AI prompts, branding and visual direction, opening up near-limitless possibilities for new storyboards and campaign concepts.
“We wanted to take AI photo booths beyond simple image transformations by making guests part of the story. The AI Comic Storyboard gives brands and event organisers a highly customisable way to create personalised and memorable guest experiences,” said Alson Ong, Founder of Cheese Effects.
The launch reflects Cheese Effects’ continued expansion from traditional photo booths to interactive, AI-powered event experiences.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Cheese Effects
Cheese Effects is a photo booth company in Singapore, providing custom photo and video booth solutions for corporate and private events. The company offers instant printing and sharing, event photography, interactive booth concepts and AI-powered experiences. For more information, visit: https://cheeseeffects.sg/
Asia’s 289 active REIT products reached a combined market value of US$279.4 billion as at 31 March 2026, up from US$235.8 billion at end of 2024
The Chinese mainland contributed 21 out of 27 new listings in Asia in the same period
India’s REIT market value rose 62% to US$17.7 billion, up from US$11 billion in end 2024
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – The Asia Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market entered a new phase of expansion in 2025–2026, with the Chinese mainland and India REIT markets emerging as the principal engines of regional growth, according to Cushman & Wakefield’s Asia REIT Market Insight 2025–2026.
The annual report showed that there were 289 active REIT products in Asia with a combined market value of US$279.4 billion as at 31 March 2026, up 18% from the end of 2024. Mature markets such as Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong stabilised and recovered moderately, while emerging markets such as Chinese mainland and India gained momentum through new product issuance, expanded asset classes and deeper institutional participation. In addition, ESG disclosure, operational efficiency and asset quality are becoming increasingly important differentiators for investors across Asia’s REIT markets.
Total Number and Market Value of Active REITs on Major Asia Exchanges (as at 31 March 2026)
Market
Number of REITs
Market Value (US$ billion)
Share of Market Value
Japan
58
101.4
36%
Singapore
39
76.7
27%
Chinese mainland
79
32.1
11%
India*
7
17.7
6%
Hong Kong, China
11
17.4
6%
Malaysia
19
10.6
4%
Thailand
37
8.6
3%
Philippines
8
6.6
2%
South Korea
25
6.5
2%
Taiwan, China
6
2.0
1%
Total
289
279.4
100%
*India REIT data includestwoSM REITs
Source: Bloomberg database, websites of Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Singapore Exchange, and Tokyo Stock Exchange; NAREIT; compiled by Cushman & Wakefield Beijing Valuation & Advisory Services
The Chinese mainland remained one of Asia’s most significant REIT growth stories, contributing 21 of the 27 new listings in Asia between end 2024 to March 2026, far outpacing other new listings from Thailand, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea, and underscoring its dominant role in driving the region’s REIT market growth. As at 31 March 2026, 79 public infrastructure REITs were listed in the Chinese mainland, with a cumulative issuance value of approximately US$31.3 billion (RMB215.5 billion) and a combined market value of US$32.1 billion (RMB221.3 billion).
A key development supporting the Chinese mainland market was the launch of the commercial real estate REIT pilot programme in late 2025, which marked a major broadening of the market beyond infrastructure. Eligible assets were expanded to include offices, shopping malls, hotels, outlets and mixed-use commercial properties, creating a new capital recycling channel for stabilised operating assets.
Andrew Chan, Managing Director, Head of Valuation & Advisory Services, Greater China, at Cushman & Wakefield said, “The Chinese mainland REIT market is moving into a more sophisticated phase. Regularised infrastructure REIT issuance has established scale and investor familiarity, while the commercial real estate REIT pilot programme introduces a powerful second growth pillar. By opening the market to a wider range of income-producing properties, the new framework can support asset revitalisation and optimise capital, but long-term performance will increasingly depend on asset quality, operating capability, and ESG credentials.”
India’s REIT market also advanced from an emerging platform toward institutional scale. Market value rose 62% from end 2024 to March 2026, allowing India to surpass Hong Kong for the first time and become Asia’s fourth-largest REIT market by market value.
New listings, including Knowledge Realty Trust and Bagmane Prime Office REIT, substantially increased portfolio scale, adding a combined 53.7 million sq ft and accounting for around three-quarters of the total new space added to the six India REITs between June 2025 and June 2026. Office REIT occupancy remained high amid tightening Grade A vacancy, while sustained multinational occupier demand and continued expansion by Global Capability Centres (GCCs) remain. As at June 2026, six listed REITs collectively held approximately 178 million sq ft, with a further 36.7 million sq ft under construction or planned.
Somy Thomas, Executive Managing Director, Capital Markets, India, at Cushman & Wakefield said, “India’s REIT market has reached an important inflection point, with larger listed portfolios, strong occupancies and a healthy development pipeline reinforcing its institutional depth. Demand from multinational companies and GCCs continues to favour high-quality, professionally managed office assets, while recent regulatory measures are widening the investor base and improving access to financing. Together, these developments create a stronger foundation for continuous REIT portfolio growth and market liquidity.”
Across the mature markets, Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong recorded market value growth of 12%, 14% and 8%, respectively, between end 2024 and March 2026, reflecting a period of steady expansion. Japan benefited from recovering office fundamentals and strong hotel performance, while Singapore entered a vigorous acquisition phase, and Hong Kong recorded valuation recovery alongside policy initiatives designed to strengthen liquidity.
Data centre and hospitality REITs are expected to remain highly visible, supported by AI-led digital infrastructure demand and tourism recovery, while M&A and asset acquisitions should stay active as managers pursue scale, diversification and portfolio quality.
Catherine Chen, Research Director, Asia Pacific, at Cushman & Wakefield noted, “Looking ahead, we expect the Chinese mainland and India REIT markets to remain the region’s key growth engines, while established markets focus on operating efficiency, capital structure and selective portfolio expansion. The opportunity set is becoming broader, while investors will be increasingly discerning about income resilience, operational efficiency, ESG performance and the ability of managers to create value through active asset management.”
Please click here to download the report. Hashtag: #CushmanWakefield #REIT #AsiaREITMarket
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About Cushman & Wakefield
Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for occupiers and investors with approximately 53,000 employees in over 350 offices and nearly 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2025, the firm reported revenue of $10.3 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit www.cushmanwakefield.com.hk or follow us on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/cushman-&-wakefield-greater-china).
New data highlights the contribution of Dusit Central Park’s rooftop park to urban cooling, air quality, biodiversity, and community well-being. The park will also mark Bangkok Climate Action Week 2026 with a special Tree Walk.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – Following its first anniversary on 3 September 2026, Suan Dusit Arun – the 11,200 sq m public rooftop park at Dusit Central Park in the heart of Bangkok – has released its first set of visitor, community, and environmental performance data. The figures demonstrate strong public demand for accessible green space in the Thai capital, with an average of 2,621 unique daily visitors during the 12-month reporting period.
Suan Dusit Arun, the 11,200 sq m public rooftop park at Dusit Central Park in the heart of Bangkok, has welcomed more than 951,000 visitors since opening on 3 September 2025.
The largest public rooftop park in Bangkok’s central business district, Suan Dusit Arun is a defining feature of Dusit Central Park and provides elevated views across Lumpini Park, one of the city’s most important green spaces. It was designed as a practical response to critical urban challenges facing Bangkok, including rising temperatures, limited access to green space, and declining biodiversity.
Open to all, the park offers the luxury of space, nature, and calm in the centre of Bangkok. Its public use and programming are thoughtfully managed to protect the landscape, preserve a comfortable atmosphere, and ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy the park without compromising the qualities it was designed to provide.
Combining beautiful views with a strong social and environmental purpose, the park serves as the unifying landscape connecting the principal elements of Dusit Central Park: the flagship Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel, Central Park Offices, the Central Park shopping centre, and a 69-storey residential tower comprising the ultra-luxury Dusit Residences and contemporary Dusit Parkside.
The design of Suan Dusit Arun reflects the wider architectural philosophy of Dusit Central Park, responding to wind flow and solar orientation while drawing on Feng Shui principles to foster harmony, balance, and a positive flow of energy between people and their surroundings.
With approximately 98% of its layered landscape dedicated to green space, the park combines 184 plant varieties, including 48 Thai species, with accessible areas for recreation, learning, community gatherings, and quiet reflection. Its planting includes native shade trees, flowering varieties, and climate-adapted plants.
The planting includes nine tree species in the three threatened categories of the IUCN Red List – two Critically Endangered, two Endangered, and five Vulnerable. It also reflects Thailand’s cultural heritage through sacred spirit trees, species referenced in classical Thai literature, and jasmine, a symbol of Mother’s Day in Thailand. Pollinator-friendly species include mangrove apple and queen’s crape myrtle.
Water management is another important part of the park’s operation. Harvested or recycled water supplies approximately 25% of irrigation demand, supported by an automated, timer-controlled irrigation system. The planted landscape is estimated to reduce stormwater runoff entering the city’s drainage system by 30–50% compared with a conventional hard-surfaced roof.
While assessment of the park’s environmental performance is ongoing, monitoring conducted within and outside the project area on 13 and 14 March 2026 provided an initial snapshot of conditions. Air temperature within Suan Dusit Arun was recorded at 31°C, compared with 33°C outside the project area. Suspended particulate matter concentrations were also approximately 35% lower within the park during the monitoring period.
“When we conceived Suan Dusit Arun, we wanted it to become an active part of Bangkok’s daily life – a public landscape with a clear social and environmental purpose,” said Chanin Donavanik, Group CEO, Dusit International. “Welcoming more than 951,000 visitors in its first year shows how strongly people value accessible green spaces where they can exercise, learn, connect, and spend time in nature.
“For Dusit, this is how responsible hospitality reaches beyond hotel operations: by creating places that deliver meaningful value for the communities and environments around them. The initial data from Suan Dusit Arun indicates the potential of thoughtful design and responsible operation to improve everyday urban life. We will continue to monitor the park’s performance and report its contribution with care and transparency.”
Beyond its daily public use, Suan Dusit Arun hosted a thoughtfully curated programme of 43 recreational, wellness, and educational events and visits during its first year. Together, these activities engaged more than 9,500 people. They ranged from aerobics, Pilates, and city runs to Children’s Day celebrations, live music, design talks, and study visits by schools and universities.
Partners included Silpakorn University, SCG Packaging Public Company Limited (SCGP), and the Thai Red Cross, alongside schools, community groups, and commercial organisations.
Collaboration with SCGP also extends to waste reduction. Suan Dusit Arun participates in the company’s “Old for New” recycling initiative and separates around 100 kg of cardboard from its operational waste each month for recycling. Event organisers are also encouraged to reduce disposable plastics and choose reusable or recyclable materials wherever practical.
Tree Walk for Bangkok Climate Action Week 2026
To mark Bangkok Climate Action Week 2026, Suan Dusit Arun and Dusit International will collaborate with Big Trees Foundation to host Tree Walk: Discovering the Value of Urban Trees at Suan Dusit Arun on 9 October 2026. Led by landscape architect Touchapon Soontrajarn and professional arborists, the half-day programme will explore how thoughtful landscape design and tree care can support urban cooling, cleaner air, biodiversity, and public well-being.
Running from 9:00–11:30 hrs, the event is limited to 30 participants and costs THB 250 per person, with all proceeds to be donated to Big Trees Foundation to support urban tree conservation. Registration will be available through the Bangkok Climate Action Week platform.
High-resolution images and a short video accompanying this media release are available here: Suan Dusit Arun
Hashtag: #Dusit
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Suan Dusit Arun
Suan Dusit Arun is an 11,200 sq m public rooftop park at Dusit Central Park, a mixed-use development in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand. Opened on 3 September 2025, the park was designed according to Universal Design principles and brings together Thai flora, shaded walkways, water features, cultural spaces, and panoramic views of Lumpini Park.
Its principal features include the Bird Nest Viewpoint, Cascade 2513 waterfall, and Dusitpini Amphitheatre. Suan Dusit Arun connects Dusit Thani Bangkok, Central Park Offices, Central Park shopping centre, and a 69-storey residential tower comprising Dusit Residences and Dusit Parkside. The park is open to the public free of charge.
Established in 1949, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Real Estate Development, and Hospitality-Related Services.
Dusit’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion, and diversification.
Fraser Suites Reserve Bangkok starts welcoming guests at One Bangkok in December 2026
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2026 – Frasers Hospitality, a business unit of Frasers Property, today announced Fraser Suites Reserve, a new luxury serviced living brand created for discerning global travellers seeking the privacy, ease and familiarity of home while away, complemented by the service and standards of luxury hospitality.
The Level 36 lobby at Fraser Suites Reserve Bangkok. (Rendering)
Building on Frasers Hospitality’s longstanding expertise and established track record in extended stays, Fraser Suites Reserve addresses a distinct segment at the luxury end of the market. Its introduction further sharpens the company’s portfolio of clearly differentiated brands.
“Fraser Suites Reserve represents the next strategic step in strengthening our portfolio,” said Eu Chin Fen, Chief Executive Officer, Frasers Hospitality. “It draws on our experience in long stays, while responding to the evolving expectations of an increasingly sophisticated segment of travellers accustomed to the world’s finest hospitality.”
Time for what matters
Fraser Suites Reserve is anchored in the belief that time is the ultimate luxury for today’s global professionals. Each property brings together refined design, intuitive service, curated wellness and lifestyle experiences intended to make life away from home easier, leaving guests free to focus on what matters most, whether their work, wellbeing, relationships or personal pursuits.
Designed as private sanctuaries within the city, its rooms are designed to offer privacy and calm. Many feature integrated kitchenettes, allowing guests to maintain familiar routines of home while away, an independence that becomes particularly valuable during longer stays. The experience is complemented by the discreet yet highly personalised service of luxury hospitality.
A guest room at Fraser Suites Reserve Bangkok, with views across the Bangkok skyline. (Rendering)
Beyond the rooms, guests can enjoy distinctive dining concepts, wellness and leisure experiences on property, as well as Club Frasers, a private lounge designed for conversation, connection and curated experiences.
“For guests accustomed to the highest standards, luxury service gives the assurance that every detail has been carefully thought through and every need understood,” said Chew Hang Song, Chief Operating Officer, Frasers Hospitality. “With Fraser Suites Reserve, this means providing an experience that feels immediately familiar and deeply human, supported by service that is warm and intuitive, yet respectful of their privacy.”
Wellbeing, made part of everyday
Holistic wellbeing is integrated into the Fraser Suites Reserve experience. At Fraser Suites Reserve Bangkok, the House of Rejuvenation will offer a dedicated environment for recovery and renewal, pairing therapist-led treatments with advanced wellness facilities such as thermal pools, cold plunges, compression therapy, dry flotation and red-light therapy.
Guests will also have access to The Wellness Edit, Frasers Hospitality’s proprietary global wellness programme. Through simple, repeatable everyday rituals that can be incorporated naturally into a guest’s stay, the programme is designed to integrate wellbeing with simple gestures, making wellbeing easier to sustain even amid demanding schedules and frequent travel.
Global debut at One Bangkok
Fraser Suites Reserve Bangkok, the brand’s first property, will begin welcoming guests in December 2026 as part of a phased opening. Its grand opening is planned for March 2027 when the complete range of facilities and experiences will be available.
The 255-room property will occupy the top ten floors of a 45-storey premium office and retail tower at One Bangkok, located right in the heart of Bangkok at the intersection of Rama IV Road and Wireless Road, with panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline and Chao Phraya River with easy access to Bangkok’s dining, entertainment and cultural attractions. Further details to be announced in the coming months.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Frasers Hospitality
Frasers Hospitality is a leading investor-operator within the lodging sector, backed by 28 years of proven expertise. Frasers Hospitality specialises in optimising and managing hospitality assets to deliver sustainable value for its stakeholders. As a business unit of Frasers Property Limited, its presence spans Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
With a diversified portfolio of over 100 lodging assets across geographies and segments, Frasers Hospitality offers a comprehensive end-to-end ecosystem of bespoke lodging expertise and solutions to maximise performance, value and growth for its partners across the real estate value chain. Frasers Hospitality is a trusted expert and preferred partner within the lodging sector with a proven track record and a business model optimised to deliver value.
Frasers Hospitality is distinguished by its style of hospitality from their progressive mindset that fosters innovation and matched with an award-winning brand portfolio tailored to new ways of travelling, living and socialising. Recognised globally for our commitment to hospitality excellence, Frasers Hospitality has earned numerous industry accolades and awards, showcasing its leadership in delivering exemplary, quality services, and curating memorable, life-enriching experiences for its guests and residents – by people, for people.
About Frasers Property Limited Frasers Property Limited (“Frasers Property” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Frasers Property Group” or the “Group”) is an integrated investor-developer-operator of real estate products and services. Listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”) and headquartered in Singapore, the Group has total assets of approximately S$40.0 billion as at 31 March 2026.
Frasers Property operates across five asset classes: industrial & logistics, retail, commercial & business parks, residential and hospitality. Its businesses span Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe and China, and its well-established hospitality business owns and/or operates serviced apartments and hotels in 20 countries.
The Group is the sponsor of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”), Frasers Centrepoint Trust and Frasers Logistics & Commercial Trust, listed on the SGX-ST, as well as Frasers Property Thailand Industrial Freehold & Leasehold REIT and Golden Ventures Leasehold Real Estate Investment Trust, listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
Guided by its purpose of inspiring experiences and creating places for good, the Group promotes an ESG framework that supports long-term value creation through focus areas such as transparent governance, sustainable finance, inclusive communities and reducing its carbon emissions. Frasers Property aims to deliver lasting shared value for its customers, people, investors and communities, while fostering a progressive, collaborative and respectful culture.
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