​AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Pacific International Insurance Pty Limited

SINGAPORE, March 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “bbb” (Good) of Pacific International Insurance Pty Limited (Pacific) (Australia). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Pacific’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM). These ratings also factor in a neutral impact from Pacific’s ultimate owner, Badger Mutual Wealth (Pty) Ltd, an insurance group domiciled in South Africa.

The revision of the balance sheet strength assessment to strong from adequate reflects Pacific’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, which improved to the strongest level as of fiscal year-end 30 June 2025, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). AM Best expects the company’s prospective risk-adjusted capitalisation to remain at the strongest level, supported by positive earnings generation. The company is viewed as having robust financial flexibility, with a track record of capital injections. A partially offsetting factor is Pacific’s moderate dependence on reinsurance; however, the risk associated with this dependence is partly mitigated by the sound credit quality of its reinsurance panel.

AM Best views Pacific’s operating performance as adequate. Over the past five fiscal years, the company’s operating performance has exhibited an improving trend. In fiscal year 2025, the company reported a combined ratio (net/net, IFRS 17) of 95.2% and a return-on-equity of 16.6%, supported by positive underwriting performance and robust investment income. Investment income remains a stable contributor to overall earnings, with the company reporting a net investment yield of 6.2% in fiscal year 2025.

AM Best assesses Pacific’s business profile as limited, reflecting its growing, albeit still relatively modest scale of operations. The company has recorded elevated premium growth in recent years, with a significant proportion of this premium being ceded to reinsurers. Pacific’s net retained insurance portfolio predominantly consists of motor, pet cover, travel and its motor novated lease partnership with an insurance distributor. AM Best expects Pacific’s net underwriting growth to remain elevated over the medium term.

AM Best assesses Pacific’s ERM as appropriate, given the size, nature and the complexity of its operations. Nonetheless, AM Best expects ongoing strengthening of the company’s ERM capabilities to support its increasing operational scale. Regulatory compliance is expected to remain a key focus area given the large number of regulatory developments in Australia and New Zealand. Following a review by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) in 2024, the company remains on target with the implementation of its remediation programme, with the oversight of the regulator, which is expected to be completed in 2026.

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright © 2026 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

 

View source version on businesswire.com: 

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319775278/en/ 

Contact

Chee Yun
Financial Analyst
+65 6303 5019
chee.yun@ambest.com

Victoria Ohorodnyk
Senior Director, Analytics
+65 6303 5020
victoria.ohorodnyk@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com 

Source : AM Best

--BERNAMA 

Clinical Study Confirms Arla’s Lacprodan IF-3070 Supports Healthy Infant Growth

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- Infant formula containing Arla Foods Ingredients’ Lacprodan IF-3070 was well tolerated and supports healthy growth and development in newborns, according to a clinical study published in Nutrients.

According to Arla Foods Ingredients in a statement, the findings provide essential scientific evidence for formula development in early life nutrition.

Arla Foods Ingredients Chief Scientist, Early Life Nutrition, Lotte Neergaard Jacobsen said healthy growth is a key factor in infant formula purchases.

Jacobsen added that the company is delighted that the first clinical study on Lacprodan IF-3070 has confirmed that it supports healthy growth.

Lacprodan IF-3070 is a partially hydrolysed whey protein ingredient specially designed to support gastrointestinal comfort in healthy infants.

The study, conducted across six Chinese hospitals with 251 newborns under 14 days old, compared standard formula, formula with approximately 40 per cent Lacprodan IF-3070, and breastfed infants as a reference.

After six months, growth trajectories for infants receiving the Lacprodan IF-3070 formula were found to be closer to the breastfed reference group, with mean daily weight gain differences of only 0.4 grammes (g) per day, compared to a 1.1 g per day difference for the standard formula group.

In terms of tolerance, there were no significant differences in adverse event incidence (gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory diseases or general disorders) between the Lacprodan IF-3070 group and the breastfed group, while the standard formula group had higher gastrointestinal disorder incidence.

Lacprodan IF-3070 is part of Arla Foods Ingredients’ hydrolysate portfolio and can be used in China and the United States, following the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s 2024 approval of whey protein hydrolysates in infant formula.

-- BERNAMA

Clinical Study Provides Evidence for the Use of Arla Foods Ingredients’ Lacprodan® IF-3070 in Infant Formula

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, March 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A clinical study published in Nutrients has shown that infant formula containing Arla Foods Ingredients’ Lacprodan® IF-3070 was well tolerated in infants, with growth and development indicators remaining within an appropriate range.1 The findings provide scientific evidence for formula development in early life nutrition.

Lacprodan® IF-3070 is a partially hydrolysed whey protein ingredient specially designed to support gastrointestinal comfort in healthy infants.

The study, which focused on safety and growth outcomes, recruited 251 newborns under 14 days old from six Chinese hospitals. They were randomised to receive either a standard formula based on intact protein, or one containing both intact protein and Lacprodan® IF-3070 (approximately 40%). Breastfed infants were included as a reference.

After six months, the difference in mean daily weight gain between the Lacprodan® IF-3070 group and the breastfed group was found to be only 0.4g per day. The difference between the standard formula group and the breastfed group was 1.1 g per day, indicating that growth trajectories in infants receiving the Lacprodan® IF-3070 formula were closer to those of the breastfed reference group.

In terms of tolerance, there were no significant differences in adverse event incidence (gastrointestinal disorders such as vomiting or refusal, respiratory diseases such as coughs, or general disorders such as fevers) between the Lacprodan® IF-3070 group and the breastfed group. By contrast, the incidence of gastrointestinal disorders was significantly higher in the standard formula group than in the breastfed group.

Lotte Neergaard Jacobsen, Chief Scientist, Early Life Nutrition, at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “Healthy growth is a key factor in infant formula purchases. At Arla Foods Ingredients, we have decades of experience developing high-quality milk protein hydrolysates for infant formulas, and we are delighted that the first clinical study on Lacprodan® IF-3070 has confirmed that it supports healthy growth.”

Lacprodan® IF-3070 is part of Arla Foods Ingredients’ hydrolysate portfolio and can be used in China and the US. In 2024, the FDA approved the use of whey protein hydrolysates in infant formula.

Full research

1 Shen Q, Jiang H, Mao S, Luo S, Hao Y, Liang W, He T, Jacobsen LN, Sheng N, Yin J, et al. An Infant Formula with Partially Hydrolyzed Whey and Intact Protein Demonstrates Adequate Growth and Safety: A 6-Month Randomized, Triple-Blind, Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2026; 18(5):770.

Photo: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/35f801d3-580c-4fd5-af90-384d88666096

Media Contact: Helence Zhang | Email: hz@ispiderpr.com 

SOURCE: Arla Foods Ingredients

--BERNAMA 

SWITZERLAND TOPS HENLEY OPPORTUNITY INDEX 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- Switzerland has been ranked the top destination in the newly released Henley Opportunity Index 2026, which evaluates how access to leading economies amplifies the long-term value of a top-tier education.

The index, published as part of the Henley Education Report 2026, measures jurisdictions based on earning potential, career prospects, education quality, economic mobility, and liveability, according to a statement.

Henley & Partners Group Head of Private Clients, Dominic Volek said the index identifies where “academic credentials and ambition translate most effectively into sustained career success and long-term economic advantage”.

Switzerland leads the 2026 ranking with a score of 86 out of 100, supported by its stable economy, world-class education system, and strong professional ecosystems in cities such as Zurich and Geneva.

Singapore ranks second with a score of 81, benefiting from its role as a global hub for trade, finance, and innovation, followed by Australia in third place with 80, driven by strong universities and high quality of life.

The United Kingdom and United States share fourth place with scores of 79, reflecting their concentration of top universities and global financial centres, while Canada ranks fifth with 78 due to its international labour market and respected education system.

Other jurisdictions in the top 15 include Austria, the United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Portugal, and Greece, each offering varying combinations of economic opportunity, mobility, and quality of life.

It ranks countries where residence or citizenship pathways—through investment or merit—enable graduates to convert academic credentials into sustained career success.

The report underscores that while degrees from leading institutions remain valuable, long-term outcomes depend heavily on graduates’ ability to live and work in top economies, positioning residence and citizenship planning as a strategic factor in education and career decisions.

-- BERNAMA

CGTN: XIONGAN EMERGES AS MODEL FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- China Global Television Network Corporation (CGTN) has published an article on the transformation of Xiongan New Area into a modern urban model, driven by the orderly relocation of Beijing’s non-capital functions and supported by large-scale investment and policy integration.

The article highlights how human-centric planning has reshaped daily life, with residents benefiting from a "15-minute life circle" that integrates healthcare, education, retail, and recreation. Infrastructure upgrades, including the restoration of waterways and community services, underscore efforts to create a liveable urban environment.

Momentum for development was reinforced by a recent visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who called for Xiongan to evolve into a national innovation hub and a model for high-quality growth, according to CGTN in a statement.

Over the 14th Five-Year Plan period, Xiongan recorded cumulative investment exceeding one trillion Chinese yuan (US$145.5 billion), alongside average annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 17.1 per cent. The area has developed nearly 215 square kilometres and constructed more than 5,300 buildings, reflecting rapid urbanisation. (US$1=RM3.94)

Relocation remains central to its strategy, with major state-backed enterprises, including China Huaneng Group, successfully transitioning operations to the area. Policy frameworks ensure relocated entities and personnel maintain comparable living standards and access to public services.

Social infrastructure has also advanced, exemplified by the Xiongan campus of Beijing No. 4 High School, part of a broader initiative to replicate Beijing’s education and healthcare standards in the new area.

Looking ahead, Xiongan is accelerating innovation-driven growth through initiatives such as the Zhongguancun Science Park, development of data models, and expansion of cross-sector digital infrastructure. These efforts aim to cultivate “new quality productive forces” and strengthen the region’s role within the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei economic cluster.

According to CGTN, Xiongan’s integrated approach—combining policy support, technological innovation, and liveability—positions it as a demonstration zone for balanced, high-quality development under China’s 15th Five-Year Plan.

-- BERNAMA

Stray Kids x Bioré UV: Anthem Film Featuring New Song “Endless Sun” Launches Globally on March 19 (JST)

 

_KV 

Bioré UV Global Campaign 2026 “SUNLIGHT IS YOUR SPOTLIGHT.” Begins 

— Limited-Time POP-UP Events Open in Japan and Korea — 

TOKYO, March 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Bioré UV, Kao Corporation’s sunscreen brand, will launch its global campaign “SUNLIGHT IS YOUR SPOTLIGHT.” featuring Stray Kids in more than 15 countries and regions beginning 20:30 (JST), March 19, 2026.
The campaign features an anthem film set to the original song “Endless Sun,” written, composed, and produced by Stray Kids, alongside key visuals and a range of global initiatives. Limited-time POP-UP events will also open in Osaka (Japan) and Seongsu, Seoul (Korea), offering immersive collaboration content and product experiences. 

Through this campaign, Bioré UV communicates its core value globally: combining high UV protection with a comfortable texture designed for everyday use. 

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319304947/en/ 

 

Special Website: https://www.kao.co.jp/bioreuv/sunlightisyourspotlight/en/ 

Background of the Global Campaign
Amid rising global temperatures and changing UV environment, more people have become cautious about spending time under the sun. In response, Bioré UV has redefined the sun—not as something to avoid, but as a spotlight that empowers individuals to shine.
Since 2025, Bioré UV has partnered with globally acclaimed K-pop group Stray Kids under the message “SUNLIGHT IS YOUR SPOTLIGHT.” Now in its second year, the campaign marks a milestone with the brand’s first-ever music collaboration.
“Endless Sun,” created exclusively for this campaign, is a fully original anthem written, composed, and produced by Stray Kids.
The anthem film embodies Bioré UV’s message of empowering everyone to step into the sunlight with confidence, supported by its powerful UV protection. 

“Endless Sun” — An Anthem Song Co-Created with Stray Kids, Sharing the Brand’s Vision
Streaming URL:
Spotify https://bit.ly/40ZAv6P
Apple Music https://bit.ly/4brUq3h
YouTube Music https://bit.ly/4rzQ28l
Amazon Music https://bit.ly/4sGElgY 

Comment from Stray Kids
“We are truly honored to have created this song in collaboration with Bioré UV. Having used Bioré UV in our daily activities, we have personally felt the reassurance and positivity that allow us to shine as ourselves even under the sun, and we incorporated those emotions into this track. We hope it encourages everyone to step confidently into the sunlight.” 

About the Anthem Film — “SUNLIGHT IS YOUR SPOTLIGHT.”
Anthem Film (60-second version):
http://youtube.com/watch?v=40S9ZH1gVH4 

The anthem film portrays the members of Stray Kids engaging freely with sunlight in their own ways. It opens with Felix gazing at the sun and whispering, “I wanna kiss you back.” before the members move through a city illuminated by light. Through beams and reflections, each member walks confidently in their own direction, expressing the beauty of shining under the sun. The film culminates in a collective message encouraging all who step into the sunlight. 

POP-UP Events in Japan and Korea: “Bioré UV × Stray Kids ‘STAY in Spotlight”
Limited-time POP-UP events will be held in Osaka and Seongsu, Seoul, where Bioré UV will make its full-scale Korean market entry in 2026. Visitors will not only be able to experience Bioré UV products but also explore campaign visuals, Stray Kids autographed life-sized standee, costumes worn during filming, product displays, and interactive activities including lucky draws. 

Seoul (Seongsu), Korea
Period: March 20 (Fri) - March 29 (Sun), 2026
Venue: LECT Seongsu
Address: 65 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (KST)
Admission: Advance reservation via Naver or same-day entry 

Osaka (Shinsaibashi), Japan
Period: March 30 (Mon) - June 30 (Tue), 2026
Venue: Kao Wow
Address: 1F Taiko Building, 3-6-13 Minamikyuhojimachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (JST)
(Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)
Admission: Walk-in entry
Exhibition content and admission procedures are subject to change. 

Global Campaigns to be Launched Sequentially in Each Region
We will sequentially roll out various campaigns in markets worldwide where Bioré UV is available. *Please note that the availability, timing, and specific details of these campaigns will vary by country and region. 

Background on the Appointment of Stray Kids
Bioré UV is currently available in 39 countries and regions worldwide. Stray Kids, who have continued to challenge global stages since their trainee days, embody the message “SUNLIGHT IS YOUR SPOTLIGHT.” Through this collaboration, Bioré UV aims to deepen global engagement and become an irreplaceable presence in everyday life. 

About Stray Kids
Stray Kids is a boy group under JYP Entertainment that debuted in 2018. The word “Stray” in the group name “Stray Kids” carries the meaning of breaking away from old traditions, formats, and systems.
The members are actively involved in writing, composing, and producing their own music, and in 2025 they became record holders for the best-selling K-pop album in the United States.
Since their album SKZ IT TAPE ‘DO IT’, released last November, debuted at No.1 on the U.S. Billboard 200, the group has achieved eight consecutive No.1 debuts on the chart. No artist had previously debuted eight albums in a row at No.1, making it a historic first worldwide. As a result, Stray Kids have been recognized as one of the top-charting groups on the Billboard 200 in the 2000s.
In addition, the group successfully completed their largest-scale world tour to date, Stray Kids World Tour [dominATE], last year. Their popularity has grown beyond Japan and Korea, becoming a global phenomenon across the United States and around the world. 

About Bioré
Bioré is a global skincare brand of Kao Corporation, offering high-performance facial cleansing, pore care, body care, and UV protection products designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life. Leveraging proprietary technologies developed through Kao’s long-standing research expertise, Bioré offers solutions that combine effectiveness with a comfortable feel, tailored to diverse skin needs.
Available in 66 countries and regions across Asia, the Americas, and Europe, Bioré continues to grow its global presence and to be chosen by consumers worldwide. 

Official Bioré UV Brand Website: https://www.kao.co.jp/bioreuv/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319304947/en/ 

Contact 

Kao Bioré V PR Office (in KMC Co., Ltd.)
Ririka Takasu / Takahiro Otsuka / Eri Sato
Tel: +81-3-6261-7413
Email: info@kmcpr.co.jp
Media Assets: https://bit.ly/bioreuv_0319 [Password: kao0319] 

Source : Kao Corporation 

ROYAL MOROCCAN FOOTBALL FEDERATION ACKNOWLEDGES CAF APPEALS RULING, CLARIFIES APPEAL POSITION

KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has formally acknowledged the decision rendered by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee.

In a statement, the federation stressed that its initial appeal was strictly intended to ensure the proper enforcement of competition regulations, emphasising it was never aimed at contesting the sporting merit or performance of the teams involved in the tournament.

The FRMF reaffirms its commitment to respecting the regulations, ensuring the clarity of the competitive framework and maintaining the stability of African football competitions.

The federation also commended all participating nations in this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which served as a significant moment for African football.

The FRMF announced plans to issue a more comprehensive official statement in the coming days following a scheduled meeting of its governing bodies.

-- BERNAMA

EarthDaily Achieves CEOS Analysis Ready Data (CEOS-ARD) Compliance

 

Validation Confirms Science-Grade Integrity of the EarthDaily Constellation 


VANCOUVER, British Columbia and NEW YORK, March 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EarthDaily today announced that its data products have achieved CEOS Analysis Ready Data (CEOS-ARD) compliance, a globally recognized standard established by the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS).

CEOS-ARD compliance confirms that EarthDaily data meet rigorous international requirements for radiometric calibration and geometric correction approaches, metadata completeness, and interoperability across time and datasets, enabling immediate quantitative analysis with minimal additional user processing.

Importantly, EarthDaily achieved CEOS-ARD compliance prior to full commercial availability of its complete constellation, a rare milestone for a commercial Earth observation system.

“This achievement validates the scientific foundation of our data,” said Don Osborne, Chief Executive Officer of EarthDaily. “We built the EarthDaily Constellation as a measurement system first. Daily coverage only matters if the data are stable, comparable, and trustworthy over time. CEOS-ARD compliance confirms we are delivering science-grade data at commercial scale.”

CEOS Analysis Ready Data standards are important to science mission interoperability and include a range of public government missions, including Sentinel and Landsat products. The framework was developed to address a persistent challenge in Earth observation: as global data volumes grow, users often lack the infrastructure and expertise required to process raw imagery for scientific and operational applications. Systematic provision of CEOS-ARD reduces that burden and supports more effective decision-making.

EarthDaily’s architecture was intentionally designed to ensure continuity with established scientific archives. Its radiometric calibration approach, spectral configuration, and geometric correction standards enable comparability and compatibility with Landsat and Sentinel data records. This design allows users to integrate EarthDaily data seamlessly into existing time-series analyses while benefiting from enhanced spectral diversity and daily revisit.

Compliance signals that EarthDaily delivers:

• Science-grade radiometric and geometric correction
• Interoperable datasets structured for robust time-series analysis
• Immediate usability for advanced analytics and AI workflows
• Reduced preprocessing burden and improved analytical reliability

The EarthDaily constellation was engineered around measurement integrity from inception. As highlighted in recent SpaceNews coverage examining the system’s development and on-orbit performance, the EarthDaily Constellation incorporates:

• Rigorous radiometric calibration
• Thermal characterization for spectral stability
• Simultaneous collection across 22 spectral bands
• Consistent local acquisition timing
• Architecture aligned for interoperability with Landsat and Sentinel archives

These design principles ensure that EarthDaily data is globally consistent and scientifically reliable for long-term change detection.

With six additional satellites launching in May and continued expansion later this year, the EarthDaily Constellation will enter commercial operations in Summer 2026, delivering daily, consistent global coverage supported by CEOS-ARD compliant science-grade data.

This milestone reinforces EarthDaily’s position as a commercial provider bridging scientific rigor with scalable, AI-ready Earth observation infrastructure.

About EarthDaily

EarthDaily is a global Earth observation company focused on delivering science-grade data and analytics designed for broad-area change detection and decision-centric intelligence. With the upcoming launch of the EarthDaily Constellation, the company is building a foundation for daily, globally consistent Earth intelligence to support governments and enterprises operating in complex, high-impact environments.

To learn more, visit earthdaily.com and follow EarthDaily on LinkedIn (@EarthDaily) and X (@EarthDailyA).

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a00964c1-54f3-418d-800e-2c09394a2aa3


Contacts
Tanya Cross
Vice President, Global Marketing and Communications
EarthDaily
tanya.cross@earthdaily.com

Alliance Advisors IR
EarthDailyPR@allianceadvisors.com 


SOURCE: EarthDaily Analytics

Uni-Fuels Accelerates Global Growth with Nationwide Bunkering in Thailand

SINGAPORE, March 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uni-Fuels Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: UFG) (“Uni-Fuels” or the “Company”), a global provider of marine fuel solutions headquartered in Singapore, today announced that its regional operating subsidiaries have expanded its bunkering operations across major and strategic marine fuel supply locations in Thailand, marking a significant milestone in the Company’s global growth strategy.

This development represents an important advancement in Uni-Fuels’ next phase of global expansion. It reinforces the Company’s commitment to strengthening its presence across key maritime hubs while continuing to scale its international operations platform in a disciplined and value-accretive manner. 

Uni-Fuels now offers customers access to a nationwide bunkering network in Thailand spanning both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The expanded network covers key commercial ports and strategic locations, including Bangkok, Sriracha, Koh Sichang, Laem Chabang, Sattahip, Maptaphut, Rayong, Ranong, Surat Thani, Koh Samui, Songkhla, Phuket, Phang Nga, and the wider Gulf of Thailand. Uni-Fuels provides bunkering services to a diverse range of vessels, including bulk carriers, tankers, offshore support vessels, naval vessels, cruise ships, and yachts.

This comprehensive coverage positions Uni-Fuels as a reliable bunkering partner across Thailand’s strategic maritime corridors, supporting both international shipping lines and domestic operators with efficient, flexible, and high-quality fuel supply solutions. Underpinned by the Company’s physical supply and delivery capabilities in Thailand, integrated with its core trading-led business model, the expansion ensures disciplined execution across multiple locations while enhancing supply logistics visibility, strengthening margin resilience, and reinforcing Uni-Fuels’ scalable growth strategy.

“This milestone reflects the strength of our local execution capabilities and our commitment to building a comprehensive marine fuel platform in Thailand,” said Poomin Vichitchaisilp, Managing Director of Uni-Fuels (Thailand) Co., Ltd. “By extending our coverage nationwide, we are enhancing service reliability and operational responsiveness for customers operating across both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Our expanded footprint allows us to support a broader range of vessel movements while maintaining consistent supply standards and disciplined operational controls. We believe this positions Uni-Fuels as a trusted long-term marine fuel partner within Thailand’s maritime ecosystem.”

“Thailand is a strategically important market within our global growth framework,” said Alan Tan, Senior Vice President, Commercial of Uni-Fuels. “This expansion bolsters our regional supply network and enhances our ability to capture incremental fuel volumes across key shipping corridors. By integrating local physical supply capabilities with our global trading platform, we optimize operational control, support margin resilience, and reinforce our scalable growth model. We remain focused on calibrated, disciplined expansion initiatives that enhance revenue visibility, strengthen competitive positioning, and create sustainable long-term value for our shareholders.”

About Uni-Fuels Holdings Limited

Uni-Fuels is a fast-growing global provider of marine fuel solutions with a growing presence across major shipping hubs, including Singapore, Seoul, Dubai, Shanghai, and Limassol, and Bangkok. Established in 2021, Uni-Fuels has evolved into a dynamic, forward-thinking company delivering customer-centric, compliant, and reliable fuel solutions across global markets and time zones, supported by 24/7 operational support year-round. Backed by a globally integrated operating platform, experienced industry professionals, and an extensive global supply network, Uni-Fuels has built trusted partnerships with customers, supporting them in achieving their operational objectives and decarbonization goals amid the maritime industry’s ongoing energy transformation. 

For more information, visit www.uni-fuels.com. 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “project”, “plan”, “intend”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “can have”, “likely” and other words and terms of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements represent Uni-Fuels’ current expectations regarding future events and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the Company’s ability to execute on the contemplated expansion plan in a timely, cost effective and efficient manner, its ability to continue its cross-border regulatory compliance, its ability to attract, evaluable and complete acquisitions with suitable candidates, and other risks and uncertainties related to market conditions and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on April 22, 2025. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof. 

Contact Information

For Investor Relations:

Uni-Fuels Holdings Limited
Email: investors@uni-fuels.com 

SOURCE: UNI-FUELS Holdings LTD.

--BERNAMA 

ImmunoScape Announces Memorandum of Understanding for Clinical Trial with Premier U.S. Cancer Center

 The company also announced a strategic investment from Leonardo DiCaprio

SINGAPORE & SAN DIEGO, March 5 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- ImmunoScape Pte. Ltd., an A*STAR spin-out backed by Amgen Ventures and EDBI that is developing next-generation TCR-based cancer immunotherapies, today announced the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a premier NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the United States, renowned globally for its pioneering history in cellular immunotherapy. This partnership will fast-track ImmunoScape's “Seed and Boost” platform into the clinic. Concurrently, the company announced a strategic investment from Leonardo DiCaprio.

Accelerating the “Seed and Boost” Clinical Program

Under the terms of the MOU, ImmunoScape will partner with the cancer center to launch an investigator-initiated clinical trial targeting Wilms Tumor 1 (WT1) positive solid tumors. The trial will focus on four difficult-to-treat indications: ovarian, mesothelioma, and other high-unmet need solid tumors such as pancreatic and colorectal cancers. The study is scheduled to dose its first patients by September 2026.

This program leverages ImmunoScape’s differentiated “Seed and Boost” strategy to solve the persistence and exhaustion challenges common in traditional cell therapies:

• The Seed: Autologous T-cells engineered with a high-affinity TCR targeting the intracellular antigen WT1.
• The Boost: A clinical stage fusion protein (Immuno-STAT™ technology) that selectively expands and activates the WT-1 targeting T-cells in the patient, mimicking the natural immune synapse while leaving all other T-cells untouched.

“We are honored that a major U.S. Cancer Center has agreed to partner with us to fast-track our Seed and Boost therapeutic approach into a clinical trial,” said Michael Fehlings, PhD, CEO of ImmunoScape. “Their experts see the potential that this novel new approach may bring to patients in need.”

The Chair of ImmunoScape’s Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Evan Newell, PhD, also commented, “Cancer patients need new innovative therapies, and this sense of urgency is driving our efforts to test patients before the end of 2026.”

Strategic Investment from Leonardo DiCaprio

Highlighting the global urgency for novel cancer interventions, Leonardo DiCaprio has joined ImmunoScape’s roster of investors to support the development of this platform.

“ImmunoScape is pioneering innovative cancer therapies, and its upcoming clinical trials targeting pancreatic, ovarian, and mesothelioma cancers are highly encouraging,” said Leonardo DiCaprio. “Through this investment, I hope to play a small role in helping accelerate their development.”

Scientific Validation and Leadership

The company also announced that its scientists have been selected to present their groundbreaking work at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in April 2026, underscoring the scientific community's interest in the “Seed and Boost” mechanism.

“ImmunoScape's Seed and Boost therapeutic approach has the potential to transform how we treat difficult solid tumor cancers,” said Adrian Bot, MD, PhD, ImmunoScape Board Member and former Chief Scientific Officer of both Kite Pharma and Capstan Therapeutics. “It may be able to simultaneously improve treatment efficacy, improve the patient experience, and lower therapeutic costs.”

Reflecting on the company’s evolution, Mr. Choon Peng Ng, Chairman and Co-founder of ImmunoScape, added, “From our company's origins as a spin-out of Singapore's A*STAR Research Agency to today, we are thrilled that the team's Singapore-based research has led us to this milestone of a major clinical trial against difficult cancers.”

About ImmunoScape
ImmunoScape is a premier, clinical-stage Singapore-headquartered biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of next-generation cell immunotherapies in oncology. With operations in Singapore and California, ImmunoScape drives innovation to deliver transformative treatments for solid tumors using its proprietary deep immunomics and high-throughput TCR discovery platforms. For more information, please visit immunoscape.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260304395544/en/

Contact

ImmunoScape Media Contact
Kalyn Schieffer
Principal, Public Relations
Anzu Partners for ImmunoScape
kos@anzupartners.com 

Source : ImmunoScape Pte. Ltd.

Kao’s Laurier Launches New Brand Communication Initiative across Asia: Strengthening Global Integration as a Core Brand in Kao’s Asian Business

 

^{Laurier Campaign Key Visual}


TOKYO, March 4 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Starting on International Women’s Day, March 8, Kao Corporation (TOKYO:4452) will launch new brand communication campaign in nine Asian countries and regions for its feminine sanitary product brand, Laurier, which is the core of its Asian business.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260303996141/en/ 

Laurier aims to help create more supportive and understanding environments around menstruation, so that women can feel more at ease, both physically and emotionally, under the key message “Comfort, Made Together,” which will be implemented simultaneously across Asia. Kao aims to further develop Laurier as a global brand.

Laurier, one of the core brands supporting Kao’s consumer care business in Asia, has been promoting globally integrated operations since 2023. Across all nine Asian countries and regions including Japan, Laurier has been working to unify product specifications and consolidate production sites to improve asset turnover ratio. Moreover, Laurier has promoted discussions to unify interpretations of the brand purpose and worldview, which varied across regions, and has renewed the global guidelines.

Through these efforts, in order to simultaneously communicate its value throughout Asia, Laurier is currently initiating a new brand communication initiative. By returning to Kao’s founding principle of a consumer perspective, Laurier will further strengthen brand equity by offering products designed for long-term use and advancing empathy-driven marketing through consistent communication across regions.

Laurier conducted a survey on attitudes toward menstruation among 4,500 women across nine Asian countries and regions.* The findings revealed that across Asia, many women feel that menstrual symptoms, concerns, and the limitations associated with menstruation have an impact on their overall sense of comfort in daily life.
*An online survey on attitudes toward menstruation was conducted by Kao among women aged 15–44 in nine Asian countries and regions, including Japan, in November–December 2023 and October–November 2024 (valid responses: 4,500).

Through this initiative, Laurier will further its efforts toward creating an inclusive environment where women can live lives full of possibilities without feeling restricted by their periods.
As a global brand, Laurier not only provides products but also supports women throughout their lives by providing information and educational support, contributing to the creation of a society where each woman can continue to live in a way that feels true to herself.

About the Brand Communication Initiative

- Key Message
Comfort, Made Together ―Laurier is here to listen.
It’s natural to find it difficult to be your normal self while you’re on your period. A woman shouldn’t have to find menstrual comfort on her own. We may not be able to completely eliminate physical discomfort or pain. But by encouraging understanding from those around us and shaping more supportive environments, we believe periods can feel a little more comfortable.
- Overview
This campaign will unify the brand’s worldview across nine Asian countries and regions, and will implement the following initiatives:

• Development of a common key visual and message across Asia
• Release of anthem films (9 country/regional versions) conveying Laurier’s message of menstrual support
• Launch of a special campaign website

- Countries/Regions: Kao Corporation / Kao Commercial (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. / Kao (Hong Kong) Ltd. / Kao (Taiwan) Corporation / Kao Vietnam Co., Ltd. / Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd. / Kao (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. / Kao Singapore Pte. Ltd. / PT Kao Indonesia
- Start Date: March 4, 2026

Ongoing Social Initiatives

As a brand that supports women, Laurier is continuously engaged in the following activities in each country and region.

• Japan: “Laurier in Workplace” and “Laurier in School,” making sanitary napkins available as standard supplies at workplaces and schools
• Indonesia: “Dr. Laurier,” providing expert knowledge on menstrual concerns that are hard to discuss with others

In addition to the above, Laurier provides menarche education to deliver accurate knowledge to individual in all nine countries and regions. Through these activities, Laurier will continue to be more than just a feminine sanitary product brand; it will continue to be a presence that supports women at all stages of their lives and in their social environments.

Comment from Kazuya Miyashita, President of the Sanitary Business, Kao Corporation

Laurier has been striving to strengthen its globally integrated operations. The launch of this new brand communication across nine Asian countries and regions marks the next stage in building a consistent global brand―one that transcends borders, listens to the voices of individual, and shares Laurier’s vision and values across Asia. While menstrual concerns and feelings vary from person to person, there are many aspects of menstruation that have been discussed as something to be endured or a personal issue. Through this communication campaign, Laurier aims to elevate menstrual concerns beyond a personal issue, encourage understanding from others, and foster an environment in which women can live with greater peace of mind. As a core brand in Kao’s Asian business, Laurier will continue to contribute to sustainable growth and the realization of a society where women can live their lives with comfort, confidence, and fewer limitations—no matter the day.

About Kao

Kao, a Japan-based manufacturer of personal care and household products, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals creates high-value-added products and services that provide care and enrichment for the life of all people and the planet. Through its brands such as Attack laundry detergent, Bioré and Jergens skin care products, Laurier sanitary products, Curél, SENSAI, and MOLTON BROWN cosmetics, and Oribe hair care products, Kao is part of the everyday lives of people across Asia, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Combined with its chemical business, which contributes to a wide range of industries, Kao generates about 1,630 billion yen in annual sales. Kao employs about 32,600 people worldwide and has more than 130 years of history in innovation. As an enterprise that provides products people use on a daily basis, the Kao Group takes responsibility to actively reduce the environmental footprint of its products throughout the product lifecycle. This is laid out in Kao’s ESG strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, which launched in 2019.
Please visit the Kao Group website for additional information.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260303996141/en/

Contact

Media inquiries should be directed to:
Public Relations
Kao Corporation
corporate_pr@kao.com

Source : Kao Corporation