FEATURED NEWS
- November 5, 2026Technology
tozero Delivers Recycled Lithium Carbonate to German Industrial Customer
Burgkirchen / Munich, Germany, November 5, 2026 — tozero, a German deep-tech company recovering critical raw materials from lithium-ion battery waste, has completed its first delivery of recycled lithium carbonate produced at its demonstration plant at Chemical Park Gendorf to a German ceramics customer. The delivery demonstrates tozero’s ability to recover lithium from battery waste and produce recycled lithium carbonate tailored to the requirements of an industrial customer. The shipment represents an important milestone toward execution of the companies’ long-term binding offtake agreement and future recurring supply. From Technology Validation to Customer Delivery "Delivering a product that meets the requirements of an industrial customer is an important moment for any deep-tech company. It reflects years of dedication, problem-solving and determination by our team. From the beginning, we believed that innovation needs to have a clear industrial purpose and that every euro invested should move us closer to creating real value for our customers," said Dr. Ksenija Neumann, founder and Co-CEO of tozero. The lithium carbonate was produced at tozero’s demonstration plant at Chemical Park Gendorf, where the company is validating its recycling technology, product quality and process performance under customer-relevant conditions. Since launching operations in Gendorf, tozero has focused on increasing operational stability, validating its process at larger scale and producing materials for customer qualification. "Building new industrial technology requires creativity, discipline and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking," Neumann added. "We have been deliberate in how we deploy capital: first prove the technology, then validate it with customers, and use those learnings to design the next stage of industrial scale-up. This delivery is another important step along that path." Customer Validation "Receiving recycled lithium carbonate from tozero marks an important milestone in our collaboration and reflects our shared ambition to build more sustainable, resilient and regionally anchored supply chains." "Increasing the use of recycled raw materials will be an important part of reducing reliance on primary resources and lowering the environmental footprint of industrial production. We are pleased to take this step together with tozero and look forward to expanding the role of circular materials in our future production." — Daniel Schulze Zur Verth, Managing Director of Botz GmbH Serving Multiple Industries with Recycled Lithium tozero’s recycled lithium can address the needs of multiple industries facing increasing pressure on raw-material supply. Beyond batteries, sectors such as ceramics also depend on reliable access to lithium and are looking for more sustainable alternatives to primary raw materials. For tozero, this is an important part of the vision: enabling different industries to access regionally sourced, recycled critical materials while reducing dependence on primary extraction and imported supply. At the same time, tozero continues advancing the technology toward additional applications, including battery-grade lithium materials. The ability to recover lithium from end-of-life batteries and manufacture products according to different customer specifications is an important part of tozero’s strategy. Rather than attempting to control every stage of the battery recycling value chain, the company focuses on the recovery and refining of valuable critical raw materials from black mass. This approach reduces capital intensity while enabling tozero to work with existing collection, preprocessing and industrial supply-chain partners. Automotive Industry Perspective While tozero sees significant potential to serve multiple industries that depend on lithium, the company continues to advance its technology toward battery-grade applications and the long-term objective of returning recycled lithium from end-of-life batteries back into battery production. "This is exactly the kind of industrial progress we want to see. Demonstrating the ability to recover lithium from used batteries and produce recycled lithium carbonate to a customer’s specification is an important step toward the ultimate goal of battery-grade materials. Less than 2% of the available black mass is processed to extract lithium in Europe. That is why building a resilient European battery value chain requires more than promising technology — it requires demonstrated execution, strong industrial partnerships and a clear pathway toward scale." — Axel Strotbek, former automotive executive and business angel Strengthening European Critical Raw Material Supply Europe remains highly dependent on imported critical raw materials used across batteries and other strategic industries. Recovering materials such as lithium from existing battery waste provides an opportunity to retain valuable resources within regional supply chains while reducing dependency on primary raw-material extraction and imports. By converting battery waste into materials that can be validated and ultimately reintegrated into industrial applications, tozero is building the technological foundation for a more circular and resilient critical-materials supply chain. Preparing for the Next Stage of Industrial Scale-Up Following the progress achieved at its Gendorf demonstration plant and the start of customer product deliveries, tozero is preparing for its next phase of industrial scale-up. The next phase will build on the technical validation, operating experience and customer relationships established through the Gendorf demonstration plant. "Our objective is not simply to prove that lithium can be recovered from battery waste," said Neumann. "We want to build a scalable industrial business around it. Customer validation is what connects technology with the market, and this delivery brings us another step closer to that goal." About tozero Founded in 2022, tozero is a Munich-based deep-tech company developing technology for the recovery of critical raw materials from lithium-ion battery waste. Its proprietary process enables the recovery of materials including lithium and graphite, with the aim of reintegrating them into industrial supply chains and reducing dependence on primary and imported raw materials. tozero operates a demonstration plant at Chemical Park Gendorf in Germany and has conducted industrial validation activities with partners including BMW and MAN. The company has raised €17 million from investors including NordicNinja, Atlantic, Honda, IQT and JGC Group. For more information, visit www.tozero.solutions . Media Contact Toni Hofbauer [email protected] Investor Relations Dr. Ksenija Neumann [email protected] +4915117503166
- November 5, 2026Travel & Leisure
Missoni Brings Its Signature Aesthetic to Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech with a New Missoni Resort Club
Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech and Missoni unveil a new Missoni Resort Club at the resort's Pool Garden, marking not only Missoni's first Resort Club in Morocco, but also the first luxury pool takeover of its kind in the region. The collaboration brings Missoni's Italian luxury design to the resort, drawing on the light, color and creative spirit of Marrakech. The collaboration has transformed the Pool Garden through Missoni's design language, with signature zigzag parasols, cushions dressing the daybeds and pool towels introducing the House's iconic zigzag motif and distinctive chromatic universe. creating an inspiring environment that blends effortlessly with the local landscape, oozing calm and ease for long sun-filled days. The Pool Garden provides a natural setting for the collaboration, with its geometric architecture, reflecting pools in shades of aquamarine and blue, and lush surrounding vegetation. Within this setting, Missoni's palette of navy, turquoise, cream and vivid green complements the landscape, creating a harmonious dialogue between the House's aesthetic and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Conceived as an invitation to experience the pleasure of living well, the Missoni Resort Club brings a distinctive perspective to poolside luxury, where design becomes an integral part of the experience. From leisurely hours in the sun to the thoughtful details that accompany a day by the pool, every element reflects a shared appreciation for beauty, comfort and the art of enjoying life. Missoni-inspired playing cards add a playful element to the poolside experience, while the food and beverage offering also reflects the brand's creative identity, with Missoni-colored ice lollies, candy floss and popcorn. Missoni's creative identity is rooted in textile innovation, craftsmanship and a close relationship with art and design. Beyond fashion, the brand has extended its aesthetic to interiors and lifestyle projects, with Missoni Resort Club projects translating the pleasure of living through its signature use of color and pattern to selected destinations around the world. The latest addition to this international portfolio is Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, where contemporary design meets traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, reflected in the resort's architecture, interiors and commitment to local artisans. This shared appreciation for design and craftsmanship is also reflected in the resort's cultural initiatives, including M.O Studio, its dedicated space for art and culture. “From our earliest conversations with Missoni, it was clear that the Pool Garden offered an exceptional setting in which to bring our two worlds together. The collaboration has evolved into something far richer than a visual transformation: it brings a fresh energy to the space and creates a joyful, immersive experience designed to be lived throughout the day. We cannot wait for our guests and the Marrakech community to discover it.” Alain-Thomas Brière, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech “Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is one of those rare places where color already feels architectural. The Pool Garden has a remarkable composition of water, light and vegetation, which made it an incredibly inspiring setting for Missoni Resort Club. Our zigzags and colors enter into a genuine dialogue with the landscape, bringing the Missoni aesthetic into the resort's existing environment. Through this collaboration, we aim to offer an experience that reflects the joyful identity of Missoni while respecting the singular beauty of Marrakech.” Alberto Caliri, Creative Director of Missoni As Marrakech enters one of its most desirable seasons for winter sun, the Pool Garden will remain dressed in Missoni for at least one year, allowing the experience to unfold across the seasons. Missoni Resort Club can be enjoyed during a stay in one of the resort's expansive private pool villas or through its Pool Day Pass, subject to availability and advance reservation. About Missoni Missoni, renowned for its excellence in Italian fashion, was founded in 1953 by Ottavio and Rosita Missoni, internationally recognized for its distinctive style, creative innovation, and exceptional craftsmanship. Today, the company is owned by FSI, which holds a 73% stake, and Katjes International, which holds the remaining 27%. Building on a unique heritage of color, innovation, and savoir-faire, Missoni continues to strengthen its global presence across fashion, lifestyle, and home décor. About Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech Set within 20 hectares of lush gardens and olive groves, just moments from the vibrant heart of the city, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech offers an exceptional retreat where space, privacy and nature define the experience. The resort features 58 private pool villas and seven elegant suites, each designed to offer a serene sanctuary blending contemporary luxury with Moroccan craftsmanship and cultural influences. Deeply rooted in its destination, the resort celebrates Morocco's rich heritage through distinctive dining experiences, exceptional wellness rituals, art and meaningful cultural encounters. From its tranquil gardens and award-winning spa to its vibrant restaurants and personalised experiences, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech combines the warmth of Moroccan hospitality with the legendary service of Mandarin Oriental, creating an intimate and authentic sense of place.
- November 5, 2026Charity
Ampol Foodary and Suntory Oceania team up to raise crucial funds for Surf Life Saving Australia
Ampol Foodary has teamed up with Suntory Oceania to raise crucial funds for Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) throughout November. As exclusive product providers – a first for the campaign, now in its sixth year – Suntory Oceania will donate 10 cents from select Suntory BOSS Coffee (237 and 500ml ranges), CELSIUS (330ml range) and Maximus (1L range) products sold at participating Ampol Foodary stores to Surf Life Saving Australia as part of their guaranteed $100,000 donation. All funds raised will directly assist Surf Life Saving Australia provide specialist training, equipment and practical support volunteers require to respond safely and quickly to coastal emergencies, floods and natural disasters. Nationally, these dedicated volunteers rescue 30 people a day and perform over 450 preventative actions every hour. "Safety is a guiding pillar of the Ampol Foundation and reflects our commitment to keeping our people and the communities in which we operate safe," Ampol Executive General Manager, Retail Australia, Kate Thomson said. "With 630 million coastal visits each year, Surf Life Saving Australia’s role has never been more important. This fundraising will help strengthen their capabilities to support greater national readiness for coastal emergencies, floods and natural disasters. "We're proud to welcome Suntory Oceania as the campaign's exclusive supplier and, together with our customers, help deliver safer coastlines across Australia." Brad Erceg, Chief Commercial Officer at Suntory Beverage and Food Oceania, said: "At Suntory Oceania, giving back to society is one of our core values, and we're proud to partner with Ampol Foodary on a campaign that makes it easy for customers to have a positive impact," "By purchasing Suntory Boss Coffee, CELSIUS or Maximus, customers can enjoy their favourite drinks while supporting the incredible work of Surf Life Saving Australia and its volunteers. "These brands are a natural fit with outdoor lifestyles and peak summer moments, making this a simple way for Australians to get involved and give back." Surf Life Saving Australia, Head of Fundraising and Commercial, John Brennan OAM added: "We're grateful to Ampol Foodary, Suntory Oceania and their customers for helping equip and train our volunteer surf lifesavers. Every donation and eligible product purchase helps strengthen the skills, equipment and readiness of our volunteers, so they can respond when Australian communities need them most." Our Surf Life Saving fundraising campaign would not be possible without the ongoing generosity of our Ampol Foodary customers, who are able to donate online, in-store at the counter or by purchasing a participating product. The national fundraising campaign will run at participating Ampol Foodary stores across Australia, from Wednesday 4 November to Tuesday 1 December 2026, and follows Ampol's recent donation of 12 Inflatable Rescue Boats to deserving surf lifesaving clubs across Australia . About Ampol: Ampol is an independent Australian company and supplies the country’s largest branded petrol and convenience network as well as refining, importing and marketing fuels and lubricants. Ampol has a deep history spanning over 100 years, having grown to become one of Australia's largest transport energy providers, including through the AmpCharge electric vehicle charging network and exploration of low carbon liquid fuels, to support customers' evolving mobility energy needs. About Suntory Oceania: By harnessing the best of Suntory from across Australia and New Zealand, Suntory Global Spirits and Suntory Beverage and Food are partnering to create a new multi-beverage powerhouse – Suntory Oceania. Underpinned by quality, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of purpose, their combined portfolio of over 40 market-leading brands will be powered by two local manufacturing sites, five distribution centres, and more than 1500 Suntorians. About Surf Life Saving Australia: Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) is Australia’s peak coastal water safety, drowning prevention and rescue authority. With over 200,000 members and 316 affiliated Surf Life Saving clubs, SLSA represents the nation’s largest volunteer movement and one of the largest in the world. SLSA supports the ongoing financial stability and viability of the Surf Life Saving movement through community donations, fundraising, corporate sponsorships and government grants. With the generous support of the Australian community, SLSA enables SLS volunteers and clubs to do what they do best – save lives. For further information, please contact: Ampol Media: [email protected] Surf Life Saving Australia: [email protected] Suntory Oceania: [email protected]
- November 5, 2026Health
Lunit Presents AI-Powered Pathology Research in Ovarian and Bladder Cancers at SITC 2026
Studies with Labcorp and CellCarta identify proliferation-related tissue differences in HRD ovarian cancer and explore spatial immune features associated with immunotherapy response in bladder cancer Lunit (KRX: 328130), a leading provider of AI for cancer diagnostics and precision oncology, today announced that it will present two collaborative studies with Labcorp and CellCarta using its AI-powered pathology platform, Lunit SCOPE, at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) 41st Annual Meeting, taking place November 4–8 in Phoenix, Arizona. The presentations mark Lunit's sixth consecutive year of presenting research at SITC since 2021. The ovarian cancer study examines histologic characteristics associated with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), while the bladder cancer study explores spatial immune patterns associated with immunotherapy response. The first study, conducted with Labcorp, examined histologic and immune characteristics associated with HRD in ovarian carcinomas using AI-powered pathology analysis. HRD is an important biomarker used to guide treatment with PARP inhibitors, but whether HRD-associated biological differences can be identified through routine histopathology remains an open research question. Researchers analyzed 339 ovarian carcinoma whole-slide images, including 88 HRD and 251 HRP cases, using Lunit SCOPE IO to quantify 22 immune and morphological features, including immune phenotypes, cell densities, and characteristics of tumor and stromal compartments. Molecular profiling using Labcorp's OmniSeq INSIGHT assay showed that HRD tumors had higher tumor mutational burden (TMB) than HRP tumors. In the pathology analysis using Lunit SCOPE IO, HRD tumors showed approximately 1.5-fold higher mitotic cell density (p=0.002), along with significantly higher tumor cell density in cancer areas (p=0.031) and combined cancer and stromal compartments (p=0.016). Across the cohort, immune phenotypes classified by Lunit SCOPE IO were also associated with genomic features, with inflamed tumors showing higher TMB than immune-desert and immune-excluded tumors (median 4.7 vs. 3.9 mutations per megabase; p=0.038). The second study, conducted with CellCarta, examined associations between spatial immune organization and response to neoadjuvant atezolizumab, an anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy, in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Using tissue samples from the Phase II ABACUS study, researchers combined multiplex immunohistochemistry and spatial analysis to characterize immune cell populations and their interactions. As part of the study, tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) in H&E-stained tissue were assessed by CellCarta pathologists and with Lunit SCOPE IO, while CellCarta's spatial analysis technologies were used to examine tumor and immune cell populations and their spatial relationships. Responders showed higher immune cell infiltration, greater immune cell diversity, and closer proximity between tumor cells and T cells. Significant colocalization of antigen-presenting cells and CD4-positive T cells was also observed, along with a trend toward more TLS being located closer to tumor cell nests. In contrast, nonresponders generally exhibited lower immune infiltration, with T cells located farther from tumor cells and predominantly displaying an exhausted phenotype. These results suggest that spatial immune organization, beyond immune cell abundance alone, may offer insights into immunotherapy response and warrant further investigation as a potential source of predictive biomarkers. Together, the studies illustrate how AI-powered pathology can contribute to different aspects of tumor microenvironment research, from identifying proliferation-related tissue features associated with HRD in ovarian cancer to supporting the assessment of immune structures alongside complementary spatial analysis in bladder cancer. "AI-powered pathology is expanding how researchers can analyze tumor tissue and investigate cancer biology," said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. "Through collaborations with global research partners such as Labcorp and CellCarta, we aim to deepen our understanding of the tumor microenvironment and advance the role of AI in precision oncology research." *Lunit SCOPE products are for research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures or decisions. Research Presentations at SITC 2026: 1. Poster Presentation [#1024 / Nov. 7] : AI-based spatial profiling reveals histologic differences between homologous recombination-deficient and -proficient ovarian carcinomas 2. Poster Presentation [#476 / Nov. 7] : Spatial immune architecture and tumor–T cell proximity are associated with response to neoadjuvant atezolizumab in muscle-invasive bladder cancer ### About Lunit Founded in 2013, Lunit (KRX: 328130) is a global leader on a mission to conquer cancer through AI. Our clinically validated solutions span medical imaging, breast health, and biomarker analysis, empowering earlier detection, smarter treatment decisions, and more precise outcomes across the cancer care continuum. Lunit offers a comprehensive suite spanning risk prediction and early detection to precision oncology. Our FDA-cleared Lunit INSIGHT Breast Suite and breast health solutions support cancer screening in thousands of medical institutions worldwide, while the Lunit SCOPE platform is used in research partnership with global pharma and laboratory leaders for biomarker research, and companion diagnostic development. Trusted by over 10,000 sites in more than 65 countries, Lunit combines deep medical expertise with continuously evolving datasets to deliver measurable impact for patients, clinicians, and researchers alike. Headquartered in Seoul with global offices, Lunit is driving the worldwide fight against cancer. Learn more at lunit.io .
- November 5, 2026Lifestyle
Discover your inner Starbucks® Bearista: CapitaLand malls unveils five adorable Starbucks Bearistas and interactive personality quiz
CapitaLand malls kickstarts its holiday celebrations at Bugis Junction Fountain Square, introducing all five Starbucks Bearista friends - Brewster, Jam, Star, Snowmallow, and Dasha, dressed in festive outfits. Shoppers can take the interactive "Discover Your Inner Starbucks® Bearista" personality quiz to discover their festive match and unlock rewards up for grabs; including a share of 5,000,000 STAR$® and 1,000 complimentary Starbucks beverages. The festive story is finally revealed! Following days of clue-hunting and visual teasers, CapitaLand malls welcomes visitors to Bugis Junction Fountain Square at the outdoor event space on L1 to meet all five Starbucks Bearista friends: Brewster, Jam, Star, Snowmallow, and Dasha. Bringing this beary magical world to life, each Bearista has a distinct personality inspired by values that resonate with both the holiday season and the Starbucks experience: craft and passion, self-expression, connection, discovery, and the spirit of giving. Discover Your Inner Starbucks® Bearista Starting today, shoppers can take the Discover Your Inner Starbucks® Bearista interactive digital personality quiz to find their festive Bearista match and unlock exclusive rewards! How to Participate: Take the Discover Your Inner Starbucks® Bearista personality quiz to find your festive Bearista and matching Go-To Starbucks drink, and receive a unique reward code to unlock rewards. Enter the code in the CapitaStar app to unlock an eligibility eVoucher. From 4 to 8 November, head down to Bugis Junction Fountain Square to meet your Bearista match in person! Simply scan the QR code at your matching Bearista installation using your eligibility eVoucher to unlock festive rewards including a matching Starbucks Go-To Drink eVoucher and 5,000 STAR$®, while stocks last. Then from 4 to 30 November, redeem your complimentary Starbucks drink via the CapitaStar app at participating Starbucks outlets: Bugis Junction Bugis+ Plaza Singapura Raffles City Singapore Starbucks Bearista’s Go-To Drinks include: Toffee Nut Crunch Latte, Caramel Frappuccino®, Peppermint Mocha, Java Chip Frappuccino®, or the CapitaLand Malls Exclusive Iced Hazelnut Bianco Latte*. *Exclusively available for redemption at participating CapitaLand malls from 4 November only. Meet Your Beary Merry Bearista Match! Star Bearista "Life's better when nobody sits alone." Star saves everyone a seat, turns introductions into conversations and gatherings into memories. Wherever Star goes, everyone feels welcome. Jam Bearista "Every celebration deserves your own spin." With reindeer ears on, a Starbucks Frappuccino® in hand, and a playlist ready, Jam brings the fun and makes every laugh louder! Brewster Bearista "There's always a better brew to dream up." Part barista, part inventor, Brewster never stops exploring what's possible in a cup. Snowmallow Bearista "The magic is in the little things." Bundled up with a warm drink in hand, Snowmallow sees magic where others might miss. Dasha Bearista "Joy grows when it's shared." With arms full and an even bigger smile, Dasha believes the best gifts are the ones we share. The Perfect Blend of Holiday Magic The debut of Starbucks Bearistas Brewster, Jam, Star, Snowmallow, and Dasha offers a first glimpse of “Brewing Up Christmas Magic at CapitaLand malls”, a season-long celebration brewing joy, surprises and festive cheer across 16 CapitaLand retail and workspace properties from 11 November to 31 December 2026. From adorable larger-than-life Bearista inflatables and festive decorations taking centrestage across CapitaLand malls islandwide to an exclusive limited-time Starbucks beverage at participating stores in CapitaLand malls, visitors can look forward to a full blend of festive experiences. Adding an extra shot of excitement, the exclusive Bearista Holiday Experience pop-up at Raffles City Singapore and Bugis+ will feature Singapore's first-ever Create-Your-Own Cold Foam Beverage concept, interactive coffee discovery zones, and hands-on roast appreciation workshops. To top it off, shoppers can take home a piece of the magic with festive favourite merchandise, limited-edition collectibles and event-exclusive keepsakes from the pop-ups, including plushies, mugs, tumblers and more! And the magic doesn’t stop there. The holiday celebrations will keep pouring with extra rewards through CapitaStar all season long. Members can look forward to holiday delights every step of the way from 11 November, so keep a lookout for what’s brewing next! Website and socials Press Assets: https://tinyurl.com/Photo-Release-Xmas-2026 Website: https://www.capitaland.com/sg/en/shop/malls/discover/discover-your-inner-starbucks-bearista.html Instagram: @CapitaLandMallsSG TikTok: @CapitaLandMallsSG Facebook: @CapitaLandMallsSG WeChat Official Account: CapitaLandMallsSG Telegram: @CapitaLandMallsSG YouTube: youtube.com/capitaland
- November 5, 2026Sports
Coles community round brings gold medal inspiration to grassroots Little Athletics
Olympic Champions Nina Kennedy and Sally Pearson headline 22 Australian track and field stars who will be visiting grassroots Little Athletics Centres across the country over the next two weeks to inspire the next generation of Aussie athletes for Coles Community Round. A record 344 Little Athletics Centres will take part in this year’s Coles Community Round which runs nationally from Wednesday 4 November until Tuesday 17 November. The annual round is a celebration of Coles’ 9-year partnership with Little Athletics, which includes banana donations, equipment grants and connecting little athletes with their sporting heroes. The ambassador appearances come less than three months since former little athletes dominated the 2026 Commonwealth Games, picking up 25 of Australia’s 34 medals. Two gold medallists, Matt Denny and Isaac Beacroft will be participating in Coles Community Round, with Isaac visiting his former Little Athletics Centre, Quakers Hill. They will be joined by former World Champions Kelsey-Lee Barber and Jaryd Clifford and Olympians Brandon Starc, Sarah Carli, Cam McEntyre, Ella Connolly and Stephanie Ratcliffe. In addition to sharing training tips and encouraging healthy eating, the Coles and Little Athletics ambassadors will also help present new equipment to successful centres from the latest round of Coles Little Athletics Community Fund grants, which last month surpassed $3 million in funding. Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist Kelsey-Lee Barber will make her first appearance after giving birth less than eight months ago. Now back in training with her sights set firmly on a fourth Olympic Games, the dual World Champion is looking forward to visiting local centres in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. “I’m so excited to meet the future of Australian Athletics, and hopefully inspire them to dream big, have a go and discover what they love about our sport,” she said. “That’s why Coles Community Round is so important. It brings elite athletes to local communities, where a little encouragement can mean so much. It’s a chance to celebrate having fun, healthy eating and trying something new. If sharing my experiences helps a child feel more confident to pursue athletics, that’s something really special.” Coles Little Athletics CEO Myles Forman said the record participation and ambassador visits in this year’s Coles Community Round highlighted the importance of Coles’ ongoing support for grassroots athletics. “Coles Community Round brings the partnership between Coles and Little Athletics to life. It connects little athletes with sporting heroes and local clubs and centres with Coles stores and team members – all helping inspire children to get active,” he said. “Since 2017, Coles has donated 7 million bananas and awarded $3 million in sports equipment grants. That support helps children build confidence and friendships and backs the families and volunteers who keep Little Athletics running.” For a full list of 2026 ambassador appearance dates and centres visit Australian Athletics website For media enquiries, please contact Coles Media Line (03) 9829 5250 or [email protected] or Australian Athletics, Darren Saffin, [email protected]
- November 5, 2026Business
Hainan Free Trade Port's Role in Linking China and ASEAN Strengthens
The 2nd Hainan-ASEAN Overseas Returnees Exchange Conference drew to a close on October 31, 2026, in Chengmai County, Hainan. Over three days, the conference brought together hundreds of overseas returnees, business people from ASEAN countries, and representatives from government and industry. Twelve projects put FTP policies to work Participants signed agreements on 12 projects during the conference. The first seven deals, signed at the opening ceremony, included a platform that will support the export of intelligent connected new energy vehicles throughout their life cycle. Five more deals followed at the Digital Going-Global New Track · Overseas Returnees Entrepreneurship Project matchmaking session, where returnee entrepreneurs presented ventures combining technology and culture. One team is developing a tropical olive industry park in Chengmai that will cover everything from seedling research to cross-border e-commerce and is expected to create around 1,000 jobs. LITHAFI, which makes sports goggles using AI and augmented reality, plans to establish its global headquarters in Hainan while Huakun Yucheng, an agarwood venture rooted in Wenru Town, aims to move beyond exporting raw materials and take its own brand overseas. The discussions continued the next day at the 2026 China·Chengmai International Economic and Trade Fair. After the opening ceremony and investment presentations, a signing ceremony and the announcement of the fair’s “Best Partners” brought the business community at the fair together with talent at the overseas's returnees conference. Ideas rapidly transformed in projects, from bringing video games to overseas markets and developing cross-border e-commerce clusters to finding practical ways for businesses to expand abroad across five different scenarios. What it takes to succeed overseas “Breaking into global markets is only the first step. Businesses also need to be able to sell their products, stay afloat and grow,” said He Xia, Founder of Seekingblue Consulting，partner of Sealink Global Consulting (M) Sdn Bhd. Hainan has been putting FTP policies into practice by offering businesses a single point of contact to get established and unveiling its first startup community for one-person companies (OPCs). An international data center and a dedicated channel for cross-border data transfers also give businesses practical support they can count on. He sees Hainan as a launchpad for Chinese companies expanding overseas and Malaysia as a first stop for Chinese brands entering ASEAN markets. "The two complement each other," He said, stating that China has no shortage of good products or technology. "What businesses often lack is local market knowledge and contacts. They need help finding the right partners, reaching distributors directly, and securing business, legal, financial, and tax support on the ground." Ronald Pua Eng Teck, Secretary-General of the ASEAN-China Economic and Trade Promotion Association, said that Hainan Free Trade Port Resort Software Community in Chengmai has a strong digital industry base from which to expand talent partnerships and technology transfer with ASEAN. "The FTP offers much more than tax incentives," Pua explained. "Hainan is a natural hub linking China and ASEAN, and partners could build lasting supply chains through contract manufacturing and joint production. Many businesspeople in ASEAN whose families came from Hainan would like to enter the Chinese market through the island, but lack the information they need. Clear explanations of the policies and the steps involved would help them find their way in and set up operations." Dr. Lu Qiong, Associate Researcher of Chinese National Academy of Arts said taking intangible cultural heritage overseas necessitates more than reproducing familiar motifs. It calls for thoughtful reinterpretation across cultures and a range of brands pitched at different audiences. The deeper the roots in local culture, the more distinctive the work. Helping audiences understand what they see is an important next step in cultural exchanges between Hainan and ASEAN. Giving talent and investment reasons to stay A conference can bring ideas, capital, and talent together for a few days. But what would persuade people to stay and invest in the FTP? Fu Zhishuai, Honorary President of the Indonesia Hainan General Chamber of Commerce, said the older generation of overseas Chinese entrepreneurs know their local markets well and retain close ties to Hainan. Younger returnees bring fresh ideas and an international outlook. Fu envisions Hainan as a “super incubator” where chambers of commerce and trade associations bring the two generations together to work on complementary parts of supply chains in sectors such as tropical agriculture and the digital economy. To help turn these connections into projects, Hainan has established overseas talent recruitment liaison offices in Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia. It has also appointed industry figures as ambassadors for investment promotion, culture, publicity and youth friendship with ASEAN. Wang Ji, Vice President of the Southeast Asia and South Asia Branch of the Western Returned Scholars Association (Overseas-educated Scholars Association of China), said the benefits of the FTP’s island-wide special customs operations are becoming apparent more quickly. Alumni networks and returnees provide a natural link between people in China and ASEAN. Regular contact can give ASEAN-based alumni who run businesses a reason to “come home more often” and put advanced technologies and new ways of doing business to work in industries that can grow over the long term. The conference offered a glimpse of how cooperation between the Hainan FTP and ASEAN is deepening. From matching businesses with partners to exchanging ideas about culture, Hainan is connecting its location, policy advantages, and talent with opportunities across ASEAN. As more people and businesses make the journey in both directions, the island is opening up across a wider range of fields.
- November 5, 2026Marketing
Global Times: Understanding the Long March spirit through the story of the 'half a quilt'
A grand assembly marking the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army was held on the morning of October 22 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), delivered an important speech. The speech reviewed the great course of the Red Army's Long March led by the Party, summarized the great significance of the victory of the Long March, revealed the key to victory that has enabled the Party and the people's army to march forward resolutely, expounded the historical value of the great Long March spirit, and set out clear requirements for carrying forward the great Long March spirit and succeeding in the new Long March. In the 30th installment of the special series “Decoding the Book of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China,” the Global Times, along with the People's Daily Overseas Edition, will explore the theme – “Carry forward the great spirit of the Long March and forge ahead on the new Long March” – by inviting Chinese and foreign scholars, translators of the work, practitioners with firsthand experience, and overseas readers to share their perspectives. In the 30th article of the "Translators' Voices" column, the Global Times interviewed Farrukh Sohail Goindi, a Pakistani author and analyst who also served as the translator of the Urdu edition of the book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. In November 1934, three female Red Army soldiers slept at the home of a villager, Xu Jiexiu, in Shazhou Village, Rucheng County, Central China’s Hunan Province. Before leaving, they cut their only quilt in half and left one half with her. The story, now widely known as “half a quilt,” has become a vivid symbol of the deep bond between the Red Army and ordinary people during the Long March. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army. The story of “half a quilt” is not only deeply embedded in the Chinese people's collective memory of the Long March, but also serves as an entry point for Goindi to reflect on this defining chapter of Chinese history. The bond between the Red Army and the people For Goindi, the close bond between the Red Army and the people is central to understanding the Long March. The story of "half a quilt" offers one of the most vivid illustrations of this relationship. In October 1934, after the CPC failed to repel the Kuomintang regime's fifth encirclement and suppression campaign, the Red Army was forced to leave its base and embark on the arduous Long March. Along the way, it faced not only relentless pursuit and attacks from enemy forces, but also food shortages, exhaustion from long-distance marches, and the formidable challenges posed by harsh natural conditions, including snow-covered mountains and marshlands. Under such circumstances, Goindi noted, the Red Army's ability to find shelter, obtain food and secure guides familiar with the mountain paths was crucial to its survival. The willingness of local people to risk their lives to help the soldiers was closely tied to how they viewed the Red Army. In the Pakistani scholar's view, the spirit embodied in the story of "half a quilt" – a spirit of the CPC sharing hardships with the people, standing together in times of adversity and persevering against all odds – continues to find expression in China's development today. In 2021, China announced that it had achieved a complete victory in the fight against poverty, lifting nearly 99 million poor rural residents living below the poverty line out of poverty. Goindi noted that more than 3 million officials were sent to rural areas as part of this "people's war" against poverty, living and working alongside poor households. He also highlighted China's approach to targeted poverty alleviation, which emphasizes understanding the specific circumstances of each household and tailoring measures to meet its actual needs. In his view, this approach has something in common with the Red Army's efforts to understand villages along its route and win the support of local people during the Long March. "The Long March teaches that power comes from serving the people, not ruling over them. This is why China's governance today puts people's livelihoods first," the scholar said. A chapter of Chinese history that influenced revolutions around the world Beyond the relationship between the Red Army and the people, Goindi also sees the Long March as an event of historical significance extending far beyond China. In his view, it fundamentally changed perceptions of the path to revolution. "It proved that a communist revolution did not need to follow the October Revolution's model of urban worker uprising. The idea of a rural-based, protracted people's war directly inspired national liberation movements." The Pakistani expert pointed out that this approach exerted a profound influence on Vietnam's struggle against colonialism. Its influence also extended to Laos, Cambodia, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaya, India and Nepal, as well as later to Africa and Latin America. Every generation must undertake its own Long March Ninety years on, the Long March is not merely a chapter of history; it also has a close bearing on China's development today. Goindi believes that although the technological blockades, economic decoupling pressures and complex international competition facing China today are very different from the circumstances confronting the Red Army, these challenges make the spirit of the Long March all the more relevant. "Self-confidence, self-reliance, and struggle are the answer," he noted. In Goindi's view, many of China's current development goals require sustained, long-term efforts. He draws a connection between the goal of building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects by the middle of this century, the Belt and Road Initiative, ecological civilization and the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, framing these as part of a new Long March in the new era. He noted that the pursuit of these goals is far from a smooth journey. Technological bottlenecks, environmental challenges, and unbalanced development all require gradual solutions. Just as the Red Army had to cross snow-covered mountains and vast marshlands during the Long March, China today must overcome obstacles on its path to development. Goindi believes that the spirit of the Long March, with its emphasis on long-term struggle, helps explain why China attaches importance to long-term planning and chooses to pursue its goals step by step rather than focusing solely on short-term gains. Why does the Long March continue to attract international attention? In recent years, an increasing number of foreign scholars, journalists and young people have come to China to retrace the route of the Red Army's Long March. Goindi believes that the Long March continues to attract international visitors not only because of its astonishing history, but also because the hardships it involved resonate with the challenges people face today. "It is a powerful story showing that human beings can overcome seemingly impossible difficulties through belief and unity. That is why it is compared internationally to the world’s great epics of endurance," noted the Pakistani scholar. In his view, retracing the Long March is not simply about looking back at history; it also offers international friends a window through which to understand contemporary China. Through the Long March, they can come to understand a China that remembers where it came from, knows why it chose its path, and has the confidence and perseverance to continue its own Long March in the new era, said Goindi. The article first appeared in the Global Times: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202611/1373620.shtml
- November 5, 2026Marketing
Global Times: 2026 Kuliang Forum opens in Fuzhou, spotlighting lasting bonds between Chinese and American people
The 2026 Kuliang Forum, organized by People's Daily Digital Communication Co., Ltd., opened in Fuzhou, East China's Fujian Province, on Wednesday, bringing together guests from China and the US to explore ways to strengthen people-to-people ties and advance practical cooperation. For the first time, the forum was held in the city where the century-old Kuliang story began. Under the theme of "Moving Towards Each Other," participants at this year's forum shared their perspectives on the history and future of China-US friendship, how language and cultural exchanges can bring people closer, and the importance of providing young people with more opportunities to meet, learn from and work with one another. At the opening ceremony on Wednesday morning, Yu Shaoliang, president of People's Daily, said that as a flagship platform for people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and the US, this year's forum would bring together forces for closer engagement and open new paths for cooperation, friendship and the future. He expressed hope that people from all sectors in both countries would be guided by the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, share more stories of friendship, voice greater support for cooperation, and deepen mutual understanding and mutual trust. He also called on media organizations, think tanks, universities, businesses and local communities in both countries to use the forum as a bridge for deeper exchanges and cooperation in education, science and technology, trade and culture, encouraging more frequent visits and interactions between the two peoples and helping them build closer ties. Through sincere dialogue and exchanges, he said, the two sides should work to deliver more practical results that benefit the people of both countries and contribute to global development, achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, and further strengthen the momentum for China-US friendship. Zhao Long, secretary of the Fujian Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and Qin Haixiang, secretary of the Fuzhou Municipal Committee of the CPC, also attended the forum and delivered remarks. US participants highlighted how language learning, shared experiences and everyday interactions help build personal connections. "People-to-people exchanges should not be like visiting an aquarium," said Eric Chipman, executive director of the Helen Foster Snow Foundation and Gung Ho Programs, speaking in Chinese at the forum. He argued that genuine connections could only be built when people went beyond observing one another and found opportunities to take part in each other's lives and work toward shared goals. In an interview with the Global Times, Chipman said a major challenge was Americans' limited exposure to China. Drawing on his nearly two decades of experience organizing China-US exchange programs, he said firsthand experiences could profoundly change young people's perspectives. "When they come here, they can't view the world the same way ever again," he said, adding that some former student participants had gone on to study or work in China or encourage others to visit. Chipman described Kuliang's history as a reminder of the long-standing connections between the two countries. He also expressed interest in bringing American students to Kuliang in the future, saying, "That would be incredible." Other US participants also shared their thoughts on how to foster understanding between the two peoples, drawing on their own experiences and areas of interest. Trenton Marsolek, a 27-year-old Tsinghua University alumnus, visited Kuliang for the first time during the trip. He told the Global Times that the Kuliang story and the friendship it represents carry significant meaning for China-US relations. He said friendships between Chinese and American people had endured through changing historical circumstances. To promote greater mutual understanding, Marsolek said more young Americans should visit China and experience the country firsthand. He said young people did not need to begin conversations with complicated political or philosophical topics. "At the end of the day, we're all human," he said, adding that conversations about ordinary topics help people see one another as individuals and build mutual understanding. For Vivian, a Chinese-American student at Peking University's School of Chinese as a Second Language, the forum was particularly meaningful given her work in teaching Chinese to international students. She told the Global Times that language learning cannot be separated from culture, real-life settings and stories. The forum offers American students and other visitors an opportunity not only to learn about Kuliang and its history, but also to experience Chinese culture firsthand. Drawing on her experience in Chinese language education, Vivian stressed that people need to interact with one another in order to develop genuine understanding. Such exchanges, she said, can help American students and business visitors gain a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture. This year's forum also featured roundtable discussions and youth exchange activities. Participants discussed the importance of constructive relations between major countries, the lessons of history for China-US relations and ways to deepen friendship between the two peoples. During the event, a new book, Bond with Kuliang: Stories of China-US Friendship and Cooperation, was launched, while an accompanying photo exhibition was held featuring images documenting exchanges and friendship between people in China and the US. Since its launch in 2024, the Kuliang Forum has held two editions in Beijing and New York, bringing together more than 300 participants from various sectors in China and the US. The forum has become a platform for dialogue and exchange between people from both countries. The 2026 Kuliang Forum kicks off in Fuzhou, East China's Fujian Province, on November 4, 2026. Source: Courtesy of People's Daily Digital Communication Co., Ltd.
- November 5, 2026Automotive
The Pulse Lives On: Nearly 1,200 Pieces of Feedback Shape the Product Loop as the 2026 EXEED International User Summit Kicks Off a New Round of Co-Creation
The 2026 EXEED International User Summit wrapped up on October 23. Running from Brand Launch Day on October 18 through Track Experience Day on October 19, the event—held under the theme "The Pulse Lives On"—drew 120 user representatives from 26 countries and regions, including the UK and Australia, who took part in the full program. During the summit, the brand gathered user feedback in parallel through questionnaires and its global social media platforms: nearly 500 questionnaire responses came in across the 26 markets, along with 672 online comments on the platforms. This feedback has been channeled into the brand's "validate–respond–iterate" loop and will inform the next phase of product development. From Design Workshop to Track Experience: On-Site Feedback and Survey Data Reinforce Each Other Brand Launch Day on October 18 centered on the Future Luxury design language, whose philosophy the team explored in greater depth. The ES GT, EX9, EX8, EX7 and MPV Concept shared the stage. Responses to that day's questionnaires showed that the exterior and interior styling shaped by this design language drew largely positive feedback. After the launch event, the design team sat down with users at a design workshop, where the conversation ranged from styling preferences across different markets to how users use space in their cars every day. Such feedback is hard to boil down to a single metric, yet it determines whether a model will be accepted in different markets. During the model showcase, users gathered around the ES GT and ET 2027—examining details up close, running their hands over the surfaces, and exchanging views face to face. 70.7% of users found the ES GT highly distinctive in design. Its low-slung body and rearward-stretching roofline form a complete shooting-brake silhouette, with the side volume tapering from the rear wheels toward the front, while its flowing, elegant side lines and upscale exterior finish resonated most with users. For the ET 2027, 75% of users endorsed its positioning as a luxury technology SUV. The broad front fascia and full-width LED headlights create a clean, poised front end, while the 30-inch integrated screen and comfort-oriented cabin layout reinforce its high-tech appeal—both drawing considerable praise. Every point users raised—whether a request to keep or to change something—could be incorporated into future products. On Track Experience Day, October 19, the ET 2027, RX 2027 and RX MY took to a professional track for the first time. On the long straight, the powerful ET 2027 won widespread praise for its straight-line acceleration; in the heavy-braking zone after a series of corners, the RX 2027 maintained body composure thanks to the combined effect of its intelligent AWD and CDC electromagnetic dampers, with 95% of users praising its linear braking response and stability under emergency braking. Every Piece of Feedback Flows into the Next Product Beyond the questionnaires, the research also surfaced areas for improvement: 44.8% of respondents suggested refining certain design features, with feedback focused on making the front grille less similar to competitors' designs; interior materials, storage space and rear-end distinctiveness, along with linear braking and body-roll control, were among the most frequently raised points. These comments will be added to the development list as items pending validation. Vehicles are put to the test on the track and in real-world conditions; users evaluate them firsthand, and their assessments feed into tuning and design. Brake feel, cornering roll, ease of everyday parking—these subjective impressions and engineering data complement each other, together shaping the input for the next round of validation. The relevant feedback will inform the next round of validation for future versions of the RX 2027 and ET 2027; meanwhile, the SIVP (Super Intelligent Valet Parking), also showcased at the summit, demonstrated smooth, stable movement along a set trajectory in tight parking spaces. Road testing and data collection are continuing in the UAE, where targets for improving parking precision and efficiency have also been set. With the 2026 EXEED International User Summit now concluded, 550,000 users worldwide are becoming co-creators in taking Future Luxury from design concept to production vehicle. Whether avant-garde design and cutting-edge technology truly land is ultimately judged by users in daily use. "The Pulse Lives On" is the theme of this summit—and a promise EXEED makes about its relationship with users. As nearly 1,200 pieces of feedback are incorporated into product development, every iteration in design, performance and technology will be measured against user expectations. For EXEED and its global users, the summit's close marks not an end but the start of the next round of co-creation.
- November 5, 2026Business
Thomas Mehler in Pune: How Southco Builds a Global Business Around Local Customers
Southco President Thomas Mehler brought the business behind the company’s latches, hinges and access systems into focus at a press meet in Pune. Joined by Prakash T. John, Country Head, Southco India, and Veeresh Manrai, General Manager, Business Development, Southco India, Mehler presented Southco’s India journey and discussed its direction with journalists at the company’s Viman Nagar office. The event offered a closer look at how an international manufacturer translates its experience into solutions for customers in individual markets. At its 28 October press meet, Southco’s leadership explored the thinking behind its access hardware, the development of its India business and priorities for the next stage of growth. Southco’s business begins with details that are easy to overlook in a finished machine. A compartment must remain secure while a vehicle travels over uneven ground. A service panel must open reliably when maintenance is needed. A display must hold its position when someone adjusts it. Latches, hinges, fasteners and positioning products help make those everyday interactions possible. Their value lies in how well they work within the equipment around them and for the person using it. That connection between component design and customer experience gave the company’s presentation a practical thread. Southco’s portfolio spans mechanical and electronic access solutions, with standard products, modifications to existing designs and custom development. The range allows its engineers to approach a requirement from several directions, whether the brief calls for a readily available component or a solution developed around a particular application. “A customer comes to us with a particular piece of equipment and a job that needs to be done. Our responsibility is to understand that requirement and bring the right experience to it. That is why the people close to the customer are so important, even in a business that operates around the world,” Mehler said. Southco’s manufacturing approach reflects that emphasis on proximity. The company builds manufacturing, engineering and customer support capabilities close to the markets it serves, while upholding the same high quality standards across its global network. Local teams bring an understanding of customer requirements and working conditions; the wider organization contributes product expertise and experience from other applications. This gives the company’s international presence a practical purpose in its everyday customer relationships. In India, that approach has taken shape through sustained investment in Pune. Southco established its regional headquarters and manufacturing facility there in 2008, later expanded its facility at Ranjangaon, near Pune and now has four sites across the Pune region, including three manufacturing plants. The expanded manufacturing space provides a stronger base for serving the Indian market. The acquisition of Pune-based Darshana Industries in 2022 reinforced that local commitment. An established Indian manufacturer and supplier of access hardware, Darshana enlarged Southco’s manufacturing footprint and strengthened its ability to offer Indian original equipment manufacturers solutions designed, engineered and produced in India. The acquisition supports Southco’s Make in India strategy and provides a foundation for its continued development in the country. For Prakash T. John, the strategic task is to connect that foundation with opportunities across Indian industry. “Our priorities begin with the industries we serve and the capabilities they will need from us. The Darshana acquisition has strengthened what we can build in India. We want to develop that strength in ways that give customers greater access to relevant products, engineering expertise and support,” said Prakash T. John. Southco is already well established in India’s automotive, off-highway equipment and mass transit sectors. Drawing on its experience serving industries around the world, the company is now bringing that expertise to defense, renewable energy and enterprise hardware, where access, security, durability, and ease of use are just as critical. Through his business development remit, Veeresh Manrai connects the needs of each application with Southco’s product and engineering capabilities, making sure every new opportunity is built on a clear understanding of what customers need. The discussion of business priorities also covered the global capability center established in India in 2026. Southco said its global engineering services are moving to India. The center supports business and technology functions across the company. This gives India-based teams a role in work shared across Southco’s international network and adds to the engineering expertise already present in the country. Mehler’s presentation also outlined Southco and Darshana’s presence in Gulf markets, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The two brands form part of the company’s approach to serving customers across that region. This market development sat alongside local manufacturing and engineering capability among the priorities presented at the briefing. At the Pune press meet, Southco’s future was described through capabilities already taking shape: stronger local production, growing engineering expertise and attention to new industrial applications. Mehler’s presence connected those developments with the company’s longer experience across markets. The common measure running through them was the usefulness of that investment to the customer, from the first design conversation to the equipment’s everyday use. About Southco Southco, Inc. designs and manufactures engineered access solutions for equipment makers worldwide. Its products include mechanical and electronic latches, hinges, fasteners, handles and positioning solutions used in transportation, industrial equipment, medical devices and other applications. Part of the TouchPoint group of companies, Southco operates across the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific, with manufacturing, engineering and customer support capabilities in India.
- November 5, 2026Technology
ASMPT Concludes Strategic Options Assessment and Retains SMT Solutions Segment
Structural AI infrastructure demand strengthens SMT’s long-term growth prospects ASMPT (HKEX: 0522), a leading global supplier of hardware and software solutions for semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, announced that its Board has concluded that retaining the SMT Solutions Segment as part of the ASMPT Group is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. Accordingly, the assessment of strategic options for the SMT Solutions Segment initiated in January 2026 has been concluded. Following a thorough review of a broad range of strategic options, including a divestiture, joint venture, spin-off, public listing and retaining the business within the Group, the Board determined that the SMT Solutions Segment’s growth and profitability outlook offers a compelling opportunity to create sustainable long-term shareholder value as part of ASMPT. “Since I joined ASMPT in August, I have continued to witness how AI is creating new opportunities across ASMPT’s portfolio. For our SMT Solutions Segment, AI-driven demand is positioning the business for a step change in its financial profile. With this clarity on SMT’s future within ASMPT, we are focused on disciplined execution to realise this potential and create sustainable long-term value for shareholders,” said Bassel Haddad, Group CEO of ASMPT. A stronger business profile is emerging The SMT Solutions Segment’s business profile is evolving beyond a cyclical recovery. AI infrastructure is adding a new demand engine across servers, networking, optics and power, coupled with increasing system integration intensity and demand for higher-value capabilities in flexibility, speed, inspection and process performance. The Group estimates the SMT addressable market to expand at a compound annual growth rate of more than 20% from 2024 to 2027, supported by accelerating AI infrastructure investment. Recent upward revisions have further expanded this addressable market and created additional opportunities for sustainable long-term growth. Retaining the SMT Solutions Segment also gives ASMPT broader exposure across the AI hardware stack and creates new opportunities across ASMPT’s portfolio. The Group’s SEMI Solutions Segment participates in the increasingly sophisticated packaging underpinning AI infrastructure, while the SMT Solutions Segment supports the system level integration required across AI servers, networking and power applications. Market share gains and higher-value business mix While AI infrastructure drives demand for the SMT Solutions Segment, equally important is the quality of that demand, which is positioning the Segment well to serve more complex applications with greater demands on flexibility, speed, inspection and process performance. Increasingly, these higher-value applications are being served by the SMT Solutions Segment's products. The SMT Solutions Segment’s bookings market share has increased from around 24% in 2025 to approximately 31% in 2026 year-to-date, and more than doubled from around US$0.7 billion to above US$1.4 billion for the same period. The composition of the SMT Solutions Segment’s bookings is also changing materially. AI-related applications grew from 12% of booking in 2024 year to date to more than 50% in 2026 year to date. This represents an approximately fourfold increase in AI-related booking share over two years and creates a more direct link to AI infrastructure investment. Advanced Packaging is becoming an important growth pillar. The SMT Solutions Segment’s Advanced Packaging bookings increased significantly to approximately US$340 million year-to-date in 2026, while its share of the Segment’s bookings rose to about 25%. Step change in financial profile These developments are expected to translate into a step change in the SMT Solutions Segment’s financial profile. Its revenue is projected to double from the 2025 level to approximately US$1.6 billion by 2027. Over the same period, its gross margin is expected to increase from the low 30% range to about 40%, while segment profit margin is expected to significantly increase and reach 20% by 2027. The projected improvement reflects the significant operating leverage and earnings upside available as the SMT Solutions Segment scales and its business mix shifts towards higher-value applications. Taken together, broader demand, higher quality revenue and a more favourable business mix are strengthening the SMT Solutions Segment’s growth, profitability and strategic profile for ASMPT and its shareholders. About ASMPT Limited ASMPT Limited is a leading global supplier of hardware and software solutions for the manufacture of semiconductors and electronics. Headquartered in Singapore, ASMPT's offerings encompass the semiconductor assembly & packaging, and SMT (surface mount technology) industries, ranging from wafer deposition to the various solutions that organise, assemble and package delicate electronic components into a vast range of end-user devices. ASMPT partners with customers very closely, with continuous investment in R&D helping to provide cost-effective, industry-shaping solutions that achieve higher productivity, greater reliability, and enhanced quality. ASMPT is listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKEX stock code: 0522) and is one of the constituent stocks of the HKEX Tech 100 Index, Hang Seng Composite MidCap Index under the Hang Seng Composite Size Indexes, the Hang Seng Composite Information Technology Industry Index under Hang Seng Composite Industry Indexes, the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index, and the Hang Seng HK 35 Index. To learn more about ASMPT, please visit us at www.asmpt.com . Forward-Looking Statements All statements included herein, other than statements of historical facts, are or may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect ASMPT’s current expectations, beliefs, hopes, intentions or strategies regarding the future and assumptions in light of currently available information. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors. Readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, and ASMPT does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements. Save as otherwise referred to below, no statement herein is intended to be or may be construed as a profit forecast. For media enquiries: Investor Relations Benjamin Poh Senior Director, Investor Relations [email protected] Global ASMPT Press Office Lim Ee Guan Director, Corporate Communications [email protected]
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