Technology

Macnica Invests in Malaysia’s Leading Digital Transformation Company, Orangeleaf Consulting, to Expand Digital Transformation Services for Japan’s Manufacturing Industry

Published

2 months ago

August 5, 2026

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Aug. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Orangeleaf Consulting Holdings Co. (“OLC”), a Singapore-registered, Malaysian-founded digital transformation and enterprise software consultancy with operations across Malaysia, Japan and Singapore, today announced a significant new chapter in its growth journey following the acquisition of a majority stake by Macnica, Inc.

Macnica, headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, is a leading technology solutions provider with deep expertise in semiconductors, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, IoT and smart manufacturing.

The transaction represents more than a capital investment. It is a strategic initiative to scale the agile transformation and DX in-sourcing model that Macnica and OLC have jointly developed since 2024. Through their collaboration, the two companies have leveraged Siemens’ low-code platform, Mendix, to support Japanese enterprises in accelerating digital transformation, modernising legacy systems and developing internal capabilities to build and continuously improve their own digital solutions. The partnership has demonstrated a practical and scalable approach to transformation, one that combines strategy, technology, people and execution to deliver measurable business value.

Combining Japanese Market Strength with Global Transformation Capabilities

As advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, organisations are under increasing pressure to transform more quickly and continuously. However, many Japanese enterprises continue to face challenges such as shortages of DX talent, dependence on external vendors for system development and operations, fragmented legacy systems, and limited internal capabilities to sustain transformation over the long term.

Through this strategic investment, Macnica and OLC will combine their complementary strengths to address these challenges in Japan. Macnica brings an extensive customer network in Japan, deep knowledge of the country’s manufacturing sector, hands-on expertise in DX in-sourcing, and the ability to integrate advanced technologies such as AI, IoT and cybersecurity.

OLC brings globally proven digital transformation consulting, agile delivery methodologies and end-to-end software engineering capabilities, powered predominantly by Malaysian talent. From small-scale business applications to complex enterprise platforms, OLC demonstrates that world-class technology solutions can be designed, built and delivered from Malaysia for global markets. Together, both companies will support Japanese enterprises in building the talent, operating models, technologies and organisational capabilities required to drive transformation from within.

“OLC is a leading global digital transformation company with unique strengths that extend beyond agile transformation and software development to include talent development and organizational capability building, enabling the company to support customers throughout their transformation journey. Since beginning our collaboration in 2024 to support digital transformation initiatives for customers in the manufacturing industry in Japan, we have been consistently impressed not only by OLC’s deep expertise and execution capabilities, but also by its unwavering commitment to customer success and the values it brings to every engagement. This partnership represents far more than a capital and business alliance. It marks an important strategic first step for two organizations that share a common purpose: helping customers successfully navigate transformation and create lasting business value.

By combining the expertise and talent of both companies, we look forward to delivering even greater value to customers across industries, while contributing to the sustainable growth and competitiveness of the manufacturing industry in Japan”, said Kazumasa Hara, President and Co-CEO of Macnica.

“This represents one of the most significant milestones in Orangeleaf Consulting’s journey. When Tim and I founded OLC eight years ago, we started with a simple belief: technology should empower organisations to transform from within, rather than leave them permanently dependent on external providers. Today, that belief has grown into a shared vision with Macnica. Our partnership brings together Macnica’s strength, customer relationships and technology ecosystem in Japan with OLC’s transformation experience, software engineering capabilities and talent from Malaysia and the region.

Together, we are building more than technology solutions. We are building organisational capabilities, developing future-ready talent and creating a sustainable model that enables enterprises to continue innovating long after an individual project is completed. This milestone also represents a new chapter for OLC. We remain deeply committed to our team, our customers and the values that have shaped the company from the beginning. With Macnica, we now have the opportunity to scale our impact and contribute meaningfully to the future of Japan’s manufacturing industry.” Ellice Ng, Founding Partner & Non-Executive Director, Brand & Strategic Innovation of Orangeleaf Consulting

“Over eight years running OLC in Malaysia, OLC has built a strong delivery model that connects business strategy, agile execution and enterprise software engineering.

Our partnership with Macnica allows us to bring this model to a much larger market while continuing to strengthen our technology, delivery and talent capabilities. Japanese manufacturers have a tremendous opportunity to modernise their operations, adopt AI and build the internal capabilities required to respond more quickly to change. By combining the strengths of both organisations, we can provide customers with an integrated transformation journey from strategy and application development to in-sourcing, talent development and continuous improvement We have transformed local talents from non-tech background to leading conglomerate-sized clients on their Digital Transformation (DX) journey and saved millions in phasing out legacy systems. I am honoured to lead OLC into this next phase as Founder and CEO, and I look forward to working closely with Macnica and our teams in Malaysia and Japan to create meaningful and sustainable outcomes for our customers and opportunities for local talents.” Tim Hendricks, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Orangeleaf Consulting.

Leadership for Orangeleaf Consulting’s Next Chapter

As part of this strategic milestone, Orangeleaf Consulting has also announced an evolution of its leadership structure to support the company’s next stage of growth. Tim Hendricks has been appointed Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Orangeleaf Consulting.

In this role, Tim will lead OLC’s overall business strategy, technology direction, delivery excellence and organisational growth. He will also oversee the continued expansion of OLC’s enterprise software, digital transformation and AI capabilities across Malaysia, Japan and the wider region.

Ellice Ng will assume new role of Founder & Non-Executive Director, Brand & Strategic Innovation.

In her new role, Ellice will focus on shaping OLC’s long-term brand direction, strategic innovation, market positioning, global partnerships and future growth opportunities. She will continue contributing to the company’s strategic direction while supporting the development of OLC’s brand, ecosystem and regional influence. The leadership evolution reflects the founders’ commitment to strengthening the company’s governance and creating a scalable leadership structure for OLC’s next phase. Together, Tim and Ellice will continue supporting OLC’s founding vision: helping organisations turn strategy into software, build internal transformation capabilities and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of technology talent in Malaysia.

About Orangeleaf Consulting – Turning Strategies into Software.

Orangeleaf Consulting is a Malaysia-headquartered digital transformation and enterprise software consultancy with operations across Malaysia, Japan and Southeast Asia.

Founded in 2018, OLC helps organisations turn strategies into software by combining digital transformation consulting, agile development, enterprise system modernisation, low-code technology, software engineering, AI and talent development.

OLC supports organisations across the complete transformation journey from strategy, process redesign and application development to internal capability building and continuous improvement. The company is a Siemens Mendix partner and has supported enterprises in accelerating application delivery, modernising legacy operations and building sustainable internal digital capabilities. It is now complete with Claude Architect Certified talents.

About Macnica Inc.

Macnica is a service/solution company that handles the latest technologies in a comprehensive manner, centered on semiconductors and cyber security. Developing business in 91 locations in 28 countries/regions around the world, leveraging the technological capabilities and global network cultivated over a history of more than 50 years, we discover, propose, and implement cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, and autonomous driving. Please visit: www.macnica.co.jp/en/

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SOURCE Orangeleaf Consulting

Technology

Guidepoint Relocates Shanghai Office to Strengthen Regional Presence

Published

58 minutes ago

September 21, 2026

SHANGHAI, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Guidepoint, a global pioneer in access to expert insight, today announced the relocation of its Shanghai office to the Bund Center on East Yan’an Road.

Building on more than a decade of sustained growth in China, the relocation positions Guidepoint in the heart of Shanghai’s business district, bringing the firm closer to the clients and partners it serves while providing a modern, collaborative workspace for its growing team.

“Research today has evolved beyond standalone expert calls to more connected, AI-enabled workflows,” said Michael Wang, Guidepoint’s Director and Head of China. “The new Shanghai office brings together capabilities across research, product innovation, compliance, and operations, reinforcing Guidepoint’s commitment to delivering source-backed insight through rigorous standards, transparency, and integrity.”

“Shanghai remains one of the world’s most influential centers for business and finance, connecting decision-makers across industries and markets,” said Chris Bonsi, Head of APAC. “This relocation reinforces our long-term commitment to the region and strengthens our ability to serve clients and attract top talent.”

As demand for expert-led, source-backed insight continues to grow, Guidepoint is focused on expanding its research capabilities by combining expert knowledge, proprietary content, and technology-enabled workflows to help clients move from uncertainty to conviction with greater speed and confidence.

About Guidepoint
Guidepoint provides real-time access to expert insights, combining human expertise with AI-powered research tools to deliver knowledge at scale. Backed by a global network of more than 2M+ subject-matter experts, Guidepoint equips institutional investors, consulting firms, and corporations with the context they need across companies, markets, and trends. Through live, asynchronous, and agentic workflows, Guidepoint embeds expert knowledge directly into decision-making, turning answers into action when timing matters most.

Technology

Reap Launches First Ever Managed Fraud and Risk Service for Card Programs

Published

58 minutes ago

September 21, 2026

Reap Sentry configures and manages fraud controls for clients’ card programs, eliminating the need for additional monitoring tools or in-house fraud specialists.

HONG KONG, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Reap, a global financial technology company that enables financial connectivity and access for businesses worldwide through stablecoin-enabled infrastructure, today announced the launch of Reap Sentry, a managed card fraud and risk service. Through Sentry, Reap manages a client’s end-to-end transaction risk management – from configuring fraud rules and screening authorisations in real time to investigating alerts, processing chargebacks, and reporting confirmed fraud to Visa. Clients do not need to build or license additional fraud-monitoring tools, or hire a dedicated fraud team.

Payment card fraud losses worldwide totalled USD 33.41 billion in 2024 (The Nilson Report, January 2026), tied to global card volume of USD 51.920 trillion (The Nilson Report, January 2026). Every card in circulation is a live payment instrument, with authorisation decisions made in milliseconds. Fraud must be stopped at the point of authorisation, not afterwards, as the knock-on costs of fraud can often exceed the value of the fraud itself. Meanwhile, evolving attack patterns make fraud management an ongoing operational function.

Built on the technology within Reap’s issuing portfolio, Sentry combines the fraud policy, tooling, and day-to-day operations required to manage transaction risk effectively. Having issued millions of cards over eight years of card issuance, Reap brings to Sentry controls informed by fraud patterns observed across its entire issuing portfolio. These controls are tailored to each client’s business profile, including its cardholder segments, geographic footprint, and stated risk appetite.

Sentry conducts ongoing screening and declines suspected fraud in real time at authorisation; triages and investigates alerts; and continuously updates controls as new threats emerge, including BIN attacks and merchant breaches. The service also processes and represents chargebacks submitted by clients, reports confirmed fraud, and provides program performance reporting on an agreed cadence. Controls are reviewed and refined as each program evolves, without requiring client intervention. Clients can integrate with Sentry through a single Reap API.

Reap protects the authorisation layer it operates and observes, while clients retain responsibility for the cardholder relationship and key first-party fraud entry points, including onboarding, identity verification and account access.

“Most companies launching a card programme have to build a fraud function from day one. Doing so requires specialist tooling, dedicated expertise and several months of preparation before they can safely issue a single card, by which point the threat landscape may already have shifted. That is rarely how a team wants its first months to go.” said Harris Leow, Head of Product, Reap. “Sentry takes on that entire card fraud function: our controls, data and specialists, tailored to each card programme.”

Sentry is available to new Reap card issuing clients and to existing clients at contract renewal, on Reap’s own API.

To find out more about Sentry, visit our website: https://reap.global/products/sentry-fraud-risk-management

About Reap
Reap is a global financial technology company that enables financial connectivity and access for businesses worldwide through stablecoin-enabled infrastructure. We transform the financial landscape through more efficient money movement by merging traditional finance with digital assets, bridging disparate economies and connecting key financial markets.

Reap was an early leader in Asia to incorporate stablecoins into our solutions. In 2025, Reap processed billions in stablecoin-funded transaction flows. From stablecoin-enabled corporate cards to cross-border payments, we streamline financial operations and empower companies to scale with our integrated business accounts and embedded finance solutions.

Founded and headquartered in Hong Kong, Reap employs 300 people worldwide. More information about Reap can be found at reap.global.

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SOURCE Reap

Technology

Envision Energy Powers Morocco’s First Large-Scale Battery Storage System at OCP’s Benguerir Mining Site

Published

59 minutes ago

September 21, 2026

BENGUERIR, Morocco, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, today announced the successful energisation of Morocco’s first large-scale lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery energy storage system at OCP Green Energy’s Benguerir mining site. The 25 MW / 125 MWh system was supplied and commissioned by Envision Energy under a contract signed in late 2025, and is now undergoing testing before entering commercial operation.

Envision Energy provided the full storage system and led the commissioning work, integrating the BESS with the site’s solar generation, grid conditions and industrial load profile. The system is designed to shift surplus solar power from daytime generation to peak consumption hours, reducing the site’s peak-hour electricity bill by approximately 25%.

With five hours of storage capacity, the BESS functions as an industrial energy management tool rather than a short-duration grid asset. It is supported by USD 20 million from the Clean Technology Fund, managed through the African Development Bank Group, and is designed for a 25-year lifetime with daily charge-discharge cycles. For OCP, the value lies not in battery capacity, but in the system’s ability to reduce peak-hour costs over a 25-year operating life.

“The successful energisation of Morocco’s first large-scale battery storage project demonstrates the reliability, flexibility and cost-effectiveness of integrated renewable-plus-storage solutions in industrial applications,” said John Lee, General Manager of Envision Energy for the Middle East and Africa. “Envision is proud to be part of this landmark project and to contribute green technology to Morocco’s energy transition.”

As highlighted in OCP Group’s official press release announcing the milestone, Omar Kadir, CEO of OCP Green Energy, said: Storage is the natural extension of our energy strategy. It allows us to reconcile the variable output of renewable energy with the continuous needs of our industrial platforms, while strengthening the reliability of our energy supply. Beyond OCP Group’s own needs, this technology paves the way for a more harmonious integration of renewable energy into the national power system. By bringing greater flexibility and resilience to the grid, it will help accelerate the deployment of renewable capacity.”

The project marks a significant milestone for battery storage and industrial decarbonisation in Morocco. It supports the country’s target of achieving 52% of installed electricity capacity from renewable sources by 2030 and serves as a benchmark for industrial decarbonisation across Africa.

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