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“8th Annual Cathay Sustainable Finance and Climate Change Summit Sets New Records and Strategies for Net Zero Transition”

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Global and Domestic Experts Unveil Solutions: Harnessing Energy and Capital for a Sustainable Future

TAIPEI, July 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Cathay Financial Holdings (Cathay FHC) has been hosting the “Cathay Sustainable Finance and Climate Change Summit” for eight consecutive years. This year’s (2024) theme, “Net Zero Transition Competitiveness,” focuses on the development of global climate finance, energy transition, and industrial transformation. The summit brought together prominent figures from government, industry, and academia, both domestic and international, to develop business strategies and solutions for corporate sustainability. The event was opened by Cathay FHC’s Chairman Hong-Tu Tsai, with Financial Supervisory Commission Vice Chairperson Yen-Liang Chen and Ministry of Economic Affairs Vice Minister Ching-Chang Lien delivering opening remarks. The summit also invited World Climate Foundation (WCF) founder/CEO Jens Nielsen and Climate Group Energy Director Sam Kimmins to Taiwan as keynote speakers. The event set a new participation record with approximately 4,800 attendees, representing 82% of the market value of the Taiwan Stock Exchange and 54% of Taiwan’s carbon emissions, indicating a strong corporate response to climate issues.

In his opening remarks, Chairman Tsai highlighted that since Cathay FHC first held the “Climate Change Roundtable Forum” in 2017, Cathay FHC has been striving to exert greater influence. Over the past eight years, Cathay FHC has consistently brought significant international trends into the event, covering topics from climate change to water resources, biodiversity, and natural capital, aiming to serve as a dialogue platform for industry, government, and academia to foster exchanges among all sectors. “Energy and capital are key to net-zero transition, necessitating investments from the financial ecosystem and industrial chain companies while leveraging Taiwan’s significant influence on the global stage,” stated Tsai. Taiwan’s government has also proposed the establishment of the National Climate Change Response Committee, underscoring its strong commitment to climate change countermeasures and elevating it to a significant priority. As a pioneering leader in sustainable finance, Cathay FHC has earned recognition both domestically and internationally for its initiatives in sustainable finance and climate action. Cathay FHC remains committed to supporting Taiwan through practical actions, collaborating with various sectors to drive successful industrial transformation.

Ministry of Economic Affairs Vice Minister Ching-Chang Lien, in his remarks, highlighted Cathay FHC’s proactive sustainability measures, including being the first to provide offshore wind power financing, purchasing REC-bundled green electricity, and hosting climate events for eight consecutive years. He also emphasized the expectation for enterprises to further implement ESG practices. Financial Supervisory Commission Deputy Chairman Yen-Liang Chen mentioned that green finance has entered a new phase as green supply chain finance, and Taiwan has robust industries that support green finance initiatives. The government has also approved insurance funds to invest NT$17.66 billion (approximately US$544.89 million) in green energy power plants. Additionally, there are 185 issues of sustainability-related bonds and 46 ESG-related funds. With financial and institutional support, Taiwan takes lead in responding to climate change.

The first half of the summit focused on “Sustainable Finance.” WCF founder/CEO Jens Nielsen delivered a keynote on “Grasping Global Climate Finance Development Trends,” emphasizing the significance of the upcoming COP29, known as the “Finance COP,” in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. He noted that financial mechanisms are the driving engine in achieving climate goals, aiming to promote a global low-carbon transition and ensure that capital flows align with climate change adaptation and development paths. Taiwan Stock Exchange Chairman and CEO Sherman H.M. Lin analyzed trends in carbon pricing and climate actions. National Taipei University Professor of Finance and Cooperative Management Chi-Jui Huang explored the current status and trends of Taiwan’s sustainable finance development from an academic perspective. PwC Sustainability Service Company Chairman Eliza Li discussed the relevant financial disclosures that Taiwanese enterprises should implement to align with the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards developed by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) from an accounting practice perspective.

As a participant in COP official and side events for three consecutive years, and the only Taiwanese financial institution to host a forum in the blue zone, Cathay FHC centered this year’s panel session theme on “Moving Towards COP 29: Accelerating Green Finance for Net-Zero Future.” The discussion included WCF founder/CEO Jens Nielsen, Energy Administration Ministry of Economic Affairs Director General Cheng-Wei Yu, Taiwan Institute for Sustainable Energy Chairman Eugene Chien, and Cathay Life Insurance President Shan-Chi Liu.

The second half of the summit focused on “Energy Transition,” which started with Climate Group Energy Director Sam Kimmins. He analyzed international energy transition trends and Taiwan’s renewable energy development, highlighting the challenges Taiwan faces in promoting Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Kimmins suggested that group PPAs for green electricity can enhance small businesses’ access to renewable energy. The comprehensive discussion on “Towards Net Zero: Strategic Planning for Energy Transition” featured Taiwan Institute of Economic Research Chairman Zhong-Shu Wu, Sam Kimmins, Taiwan Power.

Company Chairman Wen-Sheng Tseng, China Steel Corporation Acting Chairman Shyi-Chin Wang, and Delta Electronics Chief Sustainability Officer and Spokesperson Jesse Chou. They discussed promoting public-private collaboration and strategies for achieving net-zero economic goals. The “Industry Transformation Challenges and Opportunities in a Net Zero Economy” panel featured KPMG Sustainability Consulting Managing Director Niven Huang, The Center for Energy and Environmental Research Director, Je-Liang Liou, National Taiwan University Professor of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering Ching-Pin Tung, Transcene Corporation Chairman Steven Chen, and ASUSTek Computer Inc. Chief Sustainability Officer TS Wu, who shared experiences and insights on achieving net-zero goals and how industries can respond to challenges in transitioning to a net-zero economy.

Cathay FHC is addressing global climate challenges through its commitment to “Sustainable Finance in Action.” By 2050, the company aims to achieve 100% renewable energy use across its global operations. This commitment positions Cathay FHC as a climate finance leader, promoting energy transition through three main pathways: investment and financing in renewable energy, collaboration on renewable energy innovation, and innovation in core competency services. As of the end of 2023, the group has achieved significant milestones, including using 17.95 million kWh of renewable energy, investing in 1,504 MW of solar energy installation capacity, and financing low-carbon initiatives totaling NT$330.5 billion (approximately US$9.47 billion). These efforts underscore the company’s pivotal role in advancing cross-industry energy transition.

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SOURCE Cathay Financial Holdings

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Agoda Unveils South Korean Travelers’ Top Domestic and International Destinations for Chuseok Holiday

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September 6, 2026

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– Fukuoka, Tokyo, Osaka, Da Nang, and Nha Trang topped overseas destinations, while Jeju, Busan, Seoul, Sokcho, and Gyeongju led domestic hotspots  

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — With the Chuseok holiday around the corner, South Korean travelers are already making plans to make the most of the four-day break. According to digital travel platform Agoda, accommodation searches for international and domestic destinations have increased by 38% and 160%, respectively, compared to two weeks before the holiday period.

Based on accommodation searches made by South Korean travelers between May to mid-August 2026, Agoda found that Japanese destinations dominated the list of the most-searched overseas destinations for the Chuseok holiday. Fukuoka ranked first, followed by Tokyo and Osaka. Beyond Japan, Vietnamese destinations also proved popular, with Da Nang and Nha Trang rounding out the top five. The findings highlight South Korean travelers’ continued preference for short- and mid-haul destinations, where they can enjoy a combination of cultural experiences and seaside leisure.

Due to its proximity to South Korea with an average flight time of just 1.5 hours from Seoul, Fukuoka is one of the most accessible Japanese destinations for South Korean travelers. The destination is expected to become even more accessible with Eastar Jet’s expanded services on the Incheon–Fukuoka route through October 24, and the Busan–Fukuoka route from August 29 to October 24, covering the Chuseok holiday period.

For those making travel plans closer to home, Jeju ranked as the most-searched domestic destination, with a 131% increase in travel interest, followed by Busan (147%), Seoul (64%), Sokcho (324%), and Gyeongju (222%). Sokcho, which recorded the strongest growth in search interest among the top 5 domestic destinations, saw tourism expenditure by South Korean travelers increase by 8.2% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, according to the Korea Tourism Organization. The high growth in interest in Sokcho’, driven by its diverse mix of mountains, beaches, lakes, culinary experiences and cultural attractions, suggests that the destination could see continued visitor demand through the second half of the year, including during the Chuseok holiday period.

Gyeongju, which ranked fifth, continues to attract South Korean travelers with its historic sites and rich cultural heritage. The city’s appeal could be further boosted by expanded KTX and KTX-Eum services scheduled to begin in September, offering travelers improved rail connectivity during the autumn travel season.

Alex Park, Country Director, South Korea at Agoda shared, “As the Chuseok holiday approaches, South Korean travelers are showing strong interest in nearby destinations, with domestic travel seeing particularly strong demand. As a global travel platform, Agoda is committed to supporting travelers with diverse preferences by offering great deals on flights, accommodation, and activities, whether they are looking to explore destinations overseas or closer to home.”

As South Korean travelers finalize their Chuseok holiday plans, Agoda continues to offer a seamless booking experience across more than six million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities worldwide. To find the best deals for autumn travel to Asia and beyond, visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app. As part of Agoda’s August Mega Sale, travelers can enjoy up to 60% off on hotel bookings during the main sale through 31 August.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/agoda-unveils-south-korean-travelers-top-domestic-and-international-destinations-for-chuseok-holiday-302867025.html

SOURCE Agoda

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TECNO Wins Two IFA Global Product Technology Innovation Awards for Modular Phone and Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS

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September 5, 2026

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BERLIN, Sept. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TECNO, a global AI-driven innovative technology brand, achieved two IFA Global Product Technology Innovation Awards at IFA 2026:

Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS took the Miniaturized Gaming PC Technology Innovation Gold Award, standing out with its Italian aesthetics and exceptional performance in the compact body. The TECNO Modular Phone was honored with the Ultra-Slim Magnetic Modular Technology Innovation Gold Award, praised for its ultra-slim craftsmanship and unique modular magnetic technology.

These awards once again demonstrate TECNO’s sustained breakthroughs in product innovation and industry-leading craftsmanship in design excellence. The Global Product Technology Innovation Awards were established in 2014 by IDG, IFA, and DIHK to celebrate excellence across the global consumer electronics industry. The awards honor products that set new industry benchmarks and drive innovation through intelligent technology and user-centric design.

TECNO Modular Phone: The World’s Thinnest Modular Smartphone

At just 4.9mm, the TECNO Modular Phone is powered by proprietary Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology. It combines a precision magnetic array with pogo-pin connectors, offering a flexible ecosystem for different needs. The host retains a 3000–4000mAh battery, while modules draw power directly for a snap-and-go experience. It also resolves the inherent conflict between rising AI computing demands and limited device space.

The technology has earned over 20 accolades from leading media, with CNET and Yanko Design naming it the Best of MWC 2026, and The Verge recognizing it as the Best Mobile Tech at MWC 2026.

Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS: One of the World’s Smallest Water-Cooling Gaming Mini-PCs

At around 6.36 liters, the panoramic transparent chassis of the Tonino Lamborghini TECNO TAURUS fuses iconic Italian design with raw engineering. Powered by the Intel® Core™ i9-13900HK and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060 (614 AI TOPS, 145W TGP, DLSS 4), it achieves the pinnacle of performance, providing a high-fidelity gaming experience and high-efficiency AI workstation. The water-cooling system sustains peak frequencies, while 15 ports and WiFi 6E deliver connectivity. It was recognized with Yanko Design’s Best of MWC award.

In addition, TECNO made waves at IFA with the Next-Gen Bezelless Concept Phone featuring a revolutionary 0mm screen bezel, and the convertible laptop MEGABOOK T15 360 Pro. Relentlessly pushing the boundaries of design, performance, and AI innovation, TECNO is pioneering limitless possibilities for futuristic technology.

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Morpho UV Printer Unveiled at IFA with Hands-On Live Creation

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4 hours ago

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September 5, 2026

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BERLIN, Sept. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Morpho, a company specializing in UV printing technology, is showcasing its first desktop UV printer at IFA 2026, Hall 17-196. Visitors are observing Morpho’s colorful, textured prints, and some have the opportunity to print on a range of blank materials provided.

Morpho’s desktop UV printer can print on a wide range of materials, including wood, glass, leather, metal, and more, delivering vivid colors and tactile textures for customized results. At IFA 2026, the booth attracted interest from creators, educators, and technology professionals, who gathered to watch live demonstrations.

Among those who have tried Morpho’s printer, three aspects are most frequently highlighted: print quality, the moving gantry design, and overall ease of use.

Visitors are first drawn to the prints, which feature precise color reproduction and finely detailed textile textures. With G7 Master ColorSpace certification, Morpho ensures consistent tones across different pieces. The same level of precision is evident in the raised textures created by the industrial-grade printhead, which builds fine layers of ink for detailed, tactile surfaces. The printhead maintains fast carriage motion speeds of up to 600mm/s while preserving precise detail.

Attendees have also noted the printer’s compact desktop footprint. With its moving gantry architecture—where the entire gantry moves along both axes—the printer offers a large, fully enclosed print chamber that accommodates various objects while remaining desktop-friendly.

First-time users have given positive feedback on Morpho’s usability. The integrated Stereo Vision Smart Alignment™ System quickly captures an object’s height and contours, while Morpho Studio’s guided workflows help users move from idea to print with minimal setup.

Morpho’s team shared that the program has been in development for several years, with the goal of making UV printers a practical tool for everyday creative use. Founder Mingyu “Brett” Wang, formerly Global VP of R&D at DJI, commented, “We communicate directly with our community, listen to feedback, and make fast improvements.”

Ahead of IFA, Morpho’s Kickstarter campaign surpassed $10 million in support from over 2,800 backers worldwide. The company is committed to further developing its proprietary core technology and delivering reliable engineering for creators, makers, and small businesses.

Visit Morpho’s website to learn more.

About Morpho: Morpho develops desktop UV printers that bring industrial-grade printing and coloring to everyday materials, enabling creators to turn almost any physical surface into a canvas for their ideas.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/morpho-uv-printer-unveiled-at-ifa-with-hands-on-live-creation-302870741.html

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