APAC News
Munich Re announces new Ambition 2030 multi-year strategy and 2026 financial targets
As outlined in its new multi-year strategy, Munich Re is aiming for sustained profit growth and high profit participation for shareholders. By the end of 2030, the return on equity is expected to lie above 18% and earnings per share to grow annually by more than 8% on average. Ambition 2030 furthermore envisages a total payout ratio1 greater than 80% per year and a solvency ratio above 200%. Munich Re will pursue an IFRS net profit of €6.3bn in 2026 (consensus: €6.35bn) thanks to consistently good operational performance in all business segments. Group insurance revenue is expected to total €64bn (consensus: €62bn) in 2026 and return on investment to improve to above 3.5%. In its reinsurance field of business, Munich Re anticipates that net profit will amount to €5.4bn in 2026 (consensus: €5.2bn). In an ongoing favourable market environment, Munich Re will continue to leverage its strong market position. The combined ratios are expected to remain at high levels of profitability: 80% (consensus: 80%) in property-casualty reinsurance and 90% (consensus: 89%) in Global Specialty Insurance (GSI). In life and health reinsurance, Munich Re projects a total technical result of €1.9bn in 2026 (consensus: €1.9bn). The ERGO field of business is expected to continue its strong performance of recent years with a segment result of €0.9bn (consensus: €1.0bn). A combined ratio of 89% (consensus: 89%) is envisaged at ERGO Germany; ERGO International will likewise aim for a combined ratio of 89% (consensus: 89%). Please note that all figures are rounded values. As usual, all forecasts and targets are subject to increased uncertainties stemming from geopolitical and macroeconomic developments, to major losses remaining within normal bounds, and to the income statement not being impacted by severe fluctuations in the currency or capital markets, significant changes in the tax environment, or other one-off effects. Munich Re will communicate the details of its new Ambition 2030 strategy programme to the public on 11 December 2025. 1Total payout ratio is defined as the sum of announced dividend and share buy-back divided by IFRS net result. Munich Re is one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance and insurance-related risk solutions. The Group consists of the reinsurance and ERGO fields of business, and the asset manager MEAG. Munich Re is globally active and operates in all lines of the insurance business. Since it was founded in 1880, Munich Re has been known for its unrivalled risk-related expertise and its sound financial position. Munich Re leverages its strengths to promote its clients’ business interests and technological progress. Moreover, Munich Re develops covers for new risks such as rocket launches, renewable energies, cyber risks and artificial intelligence. In the 2024 financial year, Munich Re generated insurance revenue of €60.8bn and a net result of €5.7bn. The Munich Re Group employed about 44,000 people worldwide as at 31 December 2024. Disclaimer This media release contains forward-looking statements that are based on current assumptions and forecasts of the management of Munich Re. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the forward-looking statements given here and the actual development of our Company – in particular the results, financial situation and performance. The Group assumes no liability to update these forward-looking statements or to make them conform to future events or developments.
New multi-year strategy Ambition 2030: Munich Re focuses on sustained profit growth and high profit participation for shareholders
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- December 10, 2025Business
Indorama Ventures ranks first globally in ChemScore 2025 for excellence in chemicals management and environmental performance
Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL), a global sustainable chemicals company, has been ranked first globally with a green card in ChemScore 2025 , the internationally recognized benchmark developed by ChemSec, assessing the environmental performance and chemical management of the world’s 40 largest chemical companies. The company has consistently found itself in the top three ChemScore companies and scored twice as high on average as the Asia-based companies taken together. The achievement reaffirms Indorama Ventures’ commitment to balancing business resilience with environmental and social responsibility. ChemScore1 is widely used by global investors, regulatory bodies, and multinational brand owners to evaluate companies across four key pillars: responsible chemical management, development of safer and more sustainable alternatives, transparency and disclosure, and long-term stewardship across the value chain. The ranking was developed by ChemSec, an independent non-profit organization that advocates for substitution of toxic chemicals to safer alternatives. In the 2025 assessment, Indorama Ventures earned 57 out of 100 points and received a green card, including 12/25 in Transparency, 23/25 in Phase-out of Persistent Chemicals, 13/25 in Product Portfolio, and 9/25 in Safer Solutions. Indorama Ventures is recognized by ChemSec for applying the Substitute It Now (SIN) List to systematically eliminate hazardous substances, accelerate safer alternatives, and expand bio-based and hazard-free recycled feedstocks. This approach places the company ahead of tightening global regulatory requirements, including emerging EU and U.S. restrictions on persistent chemicals, and aligns with rising demand for safer, traceable materials across consumer goods, automotive, health and hygiene, and industrial sectors. Mr. Yash Lohia, Executive President of Petchem and Chairman of the ESG Council at Indorama Ventures, said , “Indorama Ventures is honored to be recognized as the top global performer, ranking first in ChemScore 2025. This achievement reflects the dedication of our teams globally, who work every day to strengthen our health and safety, minimize our chemical footprint, and raise the bar in chemicals management. We are also grateful for the continued guidance and engagement we receive from ChemSec and the IIHC, which helps drive stronger industry standards and continuous improvement. This recognition reinforces our commitment to balancing business resilience with environmental and social responsibility—and to delivering safer, greener, and more circular solutions for our customers and communities.” Sonja Haider, Head of Sustainable Finance from ChemSec, said “ChemSec congratulates Indorama Ventures on securing the leading position in this year's ChemScore ranking. Since the very first ChemScore evaluation, Indorama Ventures has consistently distinguished itself through its strong commitment to conducting business largely without hazardous substances. Its progressive approach and transparent information sharing set a benchmark for the industry. We hope this achievement will incentivize others to follow suit and accelerate the transition toward safer chemistry and a more sustainable future.” With ChemScore increasingly used by ESG-focused investors to evaluate long-term chemical safety risks and governance standards, Indorama Ventures’ top ranking enhances its investment appeal and reinforces confidence in its risk management practices. The ranking underscores Indorama Ventures’ role in shaping the next era of sustainable chemistry—one defined by safer substances, circular design, heightened transparency, and low-carbon innovation. For brand owners and consumers, this translates into safer packaging, cleaner materials, and stronger environmental assurance across everyday products. 1Chemscore is an independent global ranking of companies producing hazardous chemicals and their efforts to transition to safer alternatives. Each year since 2020 it has ranked the largest publicly-owned global chemicals corporations, based on a fully transparent methodology. ChemScore provides detailed company report cards which benchmark numerous factors. ChemScore is updated in the last quarter of every year. This is the sixth annual update.
- December 10, 2025Business
Kumul Minerals to acquire a 20% interest in Simberi Gold Project
St Barbara has entered into binding agreements (the “ Agreed Kumul JV Transaction” ) with a wholly owned subsidiary of Kumul, the State Nominee for Papua New Guinea’s (“ PNG ”) share of minerals projects within PNG, for Kumul to acquire a 20% interest in Simberi via the establishment of an unincorporated joint venture in Simberi for A$100 million. Commenting on the agreement with Kumul, Managing Director and CEO Andrew Strelein said: “St Barbara welcomes Kumul as a joint venture partner at Simberi. We share a commitment with the PNG Government, that the value of the nation’s resources are to be shared equitably for the benefit of PNG’s people.” “Kumul’s participation in Simberi aligns the interests of St Barbara and our key stakeholders. We look forward to a long and productive joint development of the Simberi Expansion Project with Kumul, and Simberi’s development partner Lingbao Gold Group also announced today 1 .” “St Barbara has engaged extensively with both the Government, community stakeholders and landowners to develop a benefits sharing model for Simberi that not only meets but exceeds the PNG Government’s goals of sharing the value from PNG resource developments.” “This agreement is a key milestone for us as we approach a Final Investment Decision for the Simberi Expansion Project, which is targeted for Q3 FY26.” Background and transaction overview Kumul is the State Nominee for the acquisition and holding of PNG’s share of minerals projects within PNG. Kumul holds an interest in a number of mining projects in PNG including a 67% majority interest in Ok Tedi, a 35% interest in the Porgera Joint Venture, a 15% interest in the Solwara 1 Project and a strategic shareholding in Tolu Minerals. Kumul is currently engaging with the PNG State Negotiating Team for the exercise of a 30% equity option in the Wafi- Golpu Project. The Agreed Kumul JV Transaction follows St Barbara’s entry into an MOU with Kumul on 9 December 2024, where the parties agreed to explore the potential acquisition of a 20% interest in Simberi and farm-in to earn up to 20% of the Tabar Islands Exploration Licenses 2 . After an extensive period of due diligence and negotiation, Kumul and St Barbara have reached agreement on the terms of the Agreed Kumul JV Transaction whereby Kumul will acquire a 20% interest in an unincorporated joint venture over Simberi for A$100 million. The Agreed Kumul JV Transaction is subject to customary conditions precedent such as PNG regulatory approvals, including from Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) clearance and NEC National Executive Committee (NEC), in addition to the renewal of the Simberi Mining Lease and St Barbara’s subsidiary, Simberi Gold Company Pty Ltd, making a final investment decision. St Barbara’s subsidiary, St Barbara Mining Pty Limited (“ SBML ”), will provide non-recourse loan funding, at commercial interest rates, to Kumul covering the full A$100 million acquisition consideration and subsequently covering Kumul’s share of construction costs. Loan funding provided by SBML will be repaid from Kumul’s future share of precious metals revenues from the remaining mining of remnant oxide mining and from the Simberi Expansion Project. St Barbara and Kumul are also finalising documentation for Kumul to farm-in to earn 20% of the Tabar Islands Exploration Licenses with the expectation of forming a separate Tabar Islands Joint Venture to progress exploration of these exciting prospects 3 . The introduction of Kumul as a joint venture participant in Simberi, together with the proposed community benefits agreement package with an enhanced royalty meets and exceeds the objective of the PNG Government to achieve greater PNG investment in, and benefits sharing from, future resource development2. Adviser St Barbara’s legal adviser is Allens. Authorised by Andrew Strelein Managing Director and CEO For more information Investor Relations David Cotterell General Manager Business Development & Investor Relations [email protected] T: +61 3 8660 1959 M: +61 447 644 648 Media Relations Paul Ryan / Russell Quinn Sodali & Co. M: +61 409 296 511 / +61 403 322 097
- December 9, 2025Event Announcement
Fujifilm to Showcase “One-Stop Solutions” at SEMICON Japan 2025
FUJIFILM Corporation will participate in “SEMICON Japan 2025”, an international exhibition of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and materials, to be held at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan, from December 17 to 19, 2025. Fujifilm introduces its broad portfolio of cutting-edge semiconductor materials as a “one-stop solution,” demonstrating its robust production and support capabilities to contribute to the further advancement of the semiconductor industry. At SEMICON Japan 2025, Fujifilm will showcase a comprehensive lineup of semiconductor materials covering nearly the entire semiconductor manufacturing process, from cutting-edge to legacy nodes. Fujifilm will introduce new products of its world-leading image sensor color filter material WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™*1, and introduce “ZEMATES™*2,” a new brand of photosensitive insulating film materials for back-end processes that contribute to improving semiconductor package reliability. Furthermore, Fujifilm will deliver a presentation at the SuperTHEATER session titled “Next-Generation Semiconductor Technology (Equipment and Materials)” on the opening day of SEMICON Japan, Wednesday, December 17. Advanced photoresists*3 EUV, ArF, KrF, PFAS-free*4 resists, nanoimprint*5 resists CMP solutions World-leading CMP slurries*6 including copper interconnect solutions, post-CMP cleaners*7 Image sensor color filter materials WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™, including the world's first KrF-compatible image sensor color filter material Advanced packaging materials “ZEMATES™” brand polyimides*8 and thermal interface materials (TIM) Co-creation development proposals utilizing “Materials Informatics” and “Generative AI” Fujifilm will also exhibit the microfilter “AstroPore” for filtering liquids such as ultrapure water, various chemicals, and CMP slurry used in semiconductor manufacturing; the pressure measurement film “Prescale” for measuring flatness of wafer bonding surface; and solutions for quantifying pressure information: Pressure Image Analysis System “FUJIFLM Prescale Station*9” and Pressure Image Analysis App “FUJIFLM Prescale Mobile*10”. Fujifilm operates three semiconductor material production sites in Japan (Shizuoka, Oita and Kumamoto). In addition to achieving “local production for local consumption” by manufacturing near its semiconductor device manufacturer customers, the company promotes “local support” by supporting customers in development, production, and quality control from nearby locations. The company strengthened CMP slurry production capacity at its Kumamoto site in January 2025 and completed a new building for advanced semiconductor material development and evaluation at its Shizuoka site in November 2025. Furthermore, construction of a new building to increase post-CMP cleaner production capacity at its Oita site is scheduled for spring 2026. These initiatives strengthen its ability to meet the growing demand for semiconductors supporting the highly information-oriented society, including those for rapidly expanding AI data centers. Fujifilm will continue its technological development and accelerate the provision of one-stop solutions that meet diverse customer needs, thereby contributing to the further advancement of the global semiconductor industry. Overview of “SEMICON Japan 2025” Overview of the Presentation at “Super THEATER” “SEMICON Japan 2025” Fujifilm Special Site “SEMICON Japan 2025” Official Website *1 General term referring to a group of functional materials for controlling electromagnetic light waves in a broad range of wavelengths, including photosensitive color materials for manufacturing color filters for image sensors such as CMOS sensors, used in digital cameras and smartphones. WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. *2 ZEMATES is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. *3 Material used to coat wafer substrate when circuit patterns are drawn in the process of semiconductor manufacturing. *4 PFAS refers to a collective term for perfluoroalkyl compounds, polyfluoroalkyl compounds, and their salts, as defined in the OECD's 2021 report “Reconciling Terminology of the Universe of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: Recommendations and Practical Guidance.” Accordingly, the claim ‘PFAS-Free’ denotes the absence of substances falling within this defined group. *5 Nanoimprint lithography. A technology in which a mask (mold) with circuit patterns is pressed onto the resist applied to a semiconductor wafer, like a stamp, to transfer and form the circuit patterns. *6 A proprietary formulation containing an abrasive that uniformly planarizes semiconductor surface, which contains a mixture of wires and insulation films of varying hardness. *7 Cleaners used after polishing with CMP slurry to remove particles, minute metal fragments and organic residues while protecting the metal surface. *8 A material with strong heat resistance and insulation properties, used for forming semiconductorsprotective films and rewiring layer. *9 The system that performs Prescale inspection (reading, analysis, and storage) in one-stop-solution, and quantifies pressure information on PC. *10 The app that enables any user to easily digitize and quantify pressure data by capturing Prescale using mobile app.
- December 9, 2025Technology
Fujifilm Launches “ZEMATES™” – a New Brand of Photosensitive Insulating Materials Enhancing Reliability in Semiconductor Packaging
FUJIFILM Corporation announced the launch of “ZEMATES™*1,” a new brand of photosensitive insulating materials for semiconductor back-end processes, centered on polyimide*2. The ZEMATES™ brand reflects the desire to remain a “trusted partner” that supports the future of the semiconductor industry and creates innovation together with customers by providing highly reliable materials. The ZEMATES™ product lineup consists of liquid-type polyimide for redistribution layers (RDL)*3 and protective films, film-type polyimide for redistribution layers and PBO (polybenzoxazole)*4 for use in protective films. These products are used as insulating layer materials in semiconductor packaging processes, covering a wide range from power semiconductors to high-performance AI semiconductors. These products, which combine excellent heat resistance and insulation properties, have earned a strong reputation for reliability. With a supply system based in Japan, the United States, and Europe, sales to semiconductor manufacturers around the world are expanding, and inquiries from new customers continue to grow. In recent years, as the demand for improved performance and lower power consumption in semiconductors—including AI semiconductors—has increased, the need for advanced packaging that integrates multiple chips has also grown. Within this trend, the market for photosensitive insulating materials used as interlayer dielectrics in redistribution layers, which contribute to wiring miniaturization, planarization, low thermal expansion, and low dielectric constant, is expected to achieve significant growth at an annual rate of 15%*5. Going forward, efforts will focus on further expanding sales of liquid-type polyimide as the core product, while also aiming for the early market launch of film-type polyimide developed using Fujifilm’s precision coating technology. Building on the trust earned from customers through liquid-type polyimide, the goal is to expand sales of photosensitive insulating materials to five times the level of FY2024 by FY2030. The newly developed film-type polyimide is now compatible with PLP (panel-level packaging process), which is required for finer wiring and larger substrates in build-up substrates*6, and is expected to expand its applications from interposers*7, where liquid-type is currently used, to build-up substrates. The use of film-type polyimide enables planarization of insulating layers, suppressing surface irregularities and undulations associated with multilayer build-up substrates, thereby contributing to improved production efficiency and product quality. Notably, all polyimide products are PFAS-free*8, containing no per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are of increasing environmental concern. About Fujifilm’s Semiconductor Materials Business Fujifilm is a global supplier of photoresists*9, photolithography-related materials*10, CMP slurries*11, post-CMP cleaners*12, thin-film chemicals*13, polyimides, high-purity process chemicals*14, and other process materials for semiconductor manufacturing from front-end to back-end processes. Fujifilm is also expanding globally with products such as WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™*15, which includes color filter materials for image sensors. Fujifilm will continue to contribute to the development of the semiconductor industry by providing “One-Stop Solutions” to solve customers' issues through its broad product lineup that covers nearly all areas of the semiconductor manufacturing process, from cutting-edge to legacy nodes. The company also leverages its global stable supply system with manufacturing bases in Japan, the United States, Europe and Asia, along with its advanced research and development capabilities. ZEMATES™ Product Lineup *1 ZEMATES is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. *2 A material with strong heat resistance and insulation properties, used for forming semiconductors’ protective films and rewiring layer. *3 Wiring layer connecting small terminals of semiconductor chips to external circuits, composed of metal wiring and insulating layers. RDL stands for Redistribution Layer. *4 Material with high heat resistance and insulation, used for protective films and redistribution layers in semiconductors, and offering superior heat resistance and strength similar to polyimide. *5 Estimated by Fujifilm. Growth rate based on value from 2024 to 2030. *6 Multilayer substrate formed by stacking insulating and conductor layers, enabling interlayer connections using fine “laser vias” compared to conventional through-holes, achieving miniaturization and high-density wiring, especially for smartphones. *7 Substrate connecting multiple chips (processors, memory, etc.) in semiconductor packaging, essential for high-density mounting and connection of CPU, GPU, HBM, etc. *8 PFAS refers to a collective term for perfluoroalkyl compounds, polyfluoroalkyl compounds, and their salts, as defined in the OECD's 2021 report “Reconciling Terminology of the Universe of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: Recommendations and Practical Guidance.” Accordingly, the claim ‘PFAS-Free’ denotes the absence of substances falling within this defined group. *9 Material used to coat wafer substrate when circuit patterns are drawn in the process of semiconductor manufacturing. *10 Development solutions, cleaners and other materials used in the photolithography process of semiconductor manufacturing. *11 A proprietary formulation containing an abrasive that uniformly planarizes semiconductor surface, which contains a mixture of wires and insulation films of varying hardness. *12 Cleaners used after polishing with CMP slurry to remove particles, minute metal fragments and organic residues while protecting the metal surface. *13 Materials for forming low-dielectric insulation films. *14 High-purity chemicals used in the cleaning and drying processes. The chemicals are employed to remove contaminants during the cleaning and drying stages of semiconductor manufacturing, as well as to eliminate metals and oils during the etching process. *15 General term referring to a group of functional materials for controlling electromagnetic light waves in a broad range of wavelengths, including photosensitive color materials for manufacturing color filters for image sensors such as CMOS sensors, used in digital cameras and smartphones. WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation.
- December 9, 2025Technology
Fujifilm Launches World’s First Color Filter Material for Image Sensors Compatible with KrF Lithography “WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™”
FUJIFILM Corporation announced the launch of a new color filter material for image sensors, “WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™*1”, compatible with KrF*2 lithography. This innovative product is the world’s first color filter material for image sensors that supports KrF exposure, and is entirely PFAS-free, addressing environmental and ecological concerns. The new material is designed for use in cutting-edge image sensors requiring ultra-miniaturization and high sensitivity, contributing to higher image quality in smartphone cameras. Image sensors are semiconductors that convert light into electrical signals to produce images, and are incorporated into devices such as smartphones and digital cameras. In recent years, the range of applications for image sensors has expanded to include automobiles, security equipment such as surveillance cameras, and AR/VR devices. As a result, the image sensor market is expected to grow at an annual rate of approximately 6%*3. With the increasing opportunities for photo and video capture—such as taking pictures and streaming videos shot on smartphones—there is a growing demand for capturing bright and smooth images and videos in any scene, as well as for editing and cropping images after shooting. These trends are driving the need for even higher image quality in image sensors. To achieve higher image quality, it is necessary to miniaturize sensor pixels to create more detailed and high-resolution images. However, as pixels become smaller, the amount of light that can be captured decreases, resulting in lower sensitivity—a key challenge in image sensor development. The newly launched product in Fujifilm’s WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™ is the world’s first color filter material for image sensors compatible with KrF lithography, enabling the formation of finer pixels that was previously unattainable with conventional i-line*4 exposure. Building on its expertise in functional molecule design and organic synthesis cultivated through silver halide photographic R&D, Fujifilm has developed new additives optimized for KrF exposure and a proprietary dye with outstanding heat and light resistance. In addition, through our unique formulation technology, the company combined this newly developed dye with conventional pigments to increase light transmittance and compensate for the reduction in light caused by pixel miniaturization, resulting in a color filter material that achieves both miniaturization and high sensitivity. With this new product, users can capture bright, smooth images and videos in various scenes. Furthermore, the product is PFAS-free*5, containing no per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are of increasing environmental concern. Fujifilm has long been committed to reducing and replacing substances that pose potential risks to human health and the environment, having previously developed PFAS-free negative-tone ArF immersion photoresists and nanoimprint resists. Building on the PFAS-free technology established through this product, Fujifilm will extend these efforts to all WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™ materials and photoresists*6, accelerating the transition of its semiconductor materials portfolio to PFAS-free solutions. As a leading manufacturer of color filter materials for image sensors, Fujifilm will continue to develop materials that not only enhance image quality but also enable applications such as infrared photography for low-light environments. Under the concept of “Transforming the invisible world into the visible, delivering new vision and value to society,” Fujifilm remains committed to contributing to the expansion of the image sensor market. About Fujifilm’s Semiconductor Materials Business Fujifilm is a global supplier of photoresists, photolithography-related materials*7, CMP slurries*8, post-CMP cleaners*9, thin-film chemicals*10, polyimides*11, high-purity process chemicals*12, and other process materials for semiconductor manufacturing from front-end to back-end processes. Fujifilm is also expanding globally with products such as WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC™, which includes color filter materials for image sensors. Fujifilm will continue to contribute to the development of the semiconductor industry by providing one-stop solutions to solve customers' issues through its broad product lineup that covers nearly all areas of the semiconductor manufacturing process, from cutting-edge to legacy nodes. The company also leverages its global stable supply system with manufacturing bases in Japan, the United States, Europe and Asia, along with its advanced research and development capabilities. *1 General term referring to a group of functional materials for controlling electromagnetic light waves in a broad range of wavelengths, including photosensitive color materials for manufacturing color filters for image sensors such as CMOS sensors, used in digital cameras and smartphones. WAVE CONTROL MOSAIC is a registered trademark or trademark of FUJIFILM Corporation. *2 KrF (Krypton Fluoride): A 248nm wavelength laser light source used in the photolithography process for semiconductor manufacturing. *3 Source: Techno System Research, “2025 First Half Edition CCD & CMOS Market Marketing Analysis.” *4 i-line: A mercury spectral line with a wavelength of 365nm, also used as a light source in photolithography processes. *5 PFAS refers to a collective term for perfluoroalkyl compounds, polyfluoroalkyl compounds, and their salts, as defined in the OECD's 2021 report “Reconciling Terminology of the Universe of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances: Recommendations and Practical Guidance.” Accordingly, the claim ‘PFAS-Free’ denotes the absence of substances falling within this defined group. *6 Material used to coat wafer substrate when circuit patterns are drawn in the process of semiconductor manufacturing. *7 Development solutions, cleaners and other materials used in the photolithography process of semiconductor manufacturing. *8 A proprietary formulation containing an abrasive that uniformly planarizes semiconductor surface, which contains a mixture of wires and insulation films of varying hardness. *9 Cleaners used after polishing with CMP slurry to remove particles, minute metal fragments and organic residues while protecting the metal surface. *10 Materials for forming low-dielectric insulation films. *11 A material with strong heat resistance and insulation properties, used for forming semiconductors’ protective films and rewiring layer. *12 High-purity chemicals used in the cleaning and drying processes. The chemicals are employed to remove contaminants during the cleaning and drying stages of semiconductor manufacturing, as well as to eliminate metals and oils during the etching process.
- December 8, 2025Business
Capital Raise: Successful $5.3 Million Institutional Placement
The issue price of the Placement is $0.09 per share, which represents a discount of 14.3% to COB's 10-day VWAP. The Placement proceeds will be used to fund: Progression of remaining milestones to the KCR FID, including: Conversion of offtake non-binding Letters of Intent into binding agreements Consolidating support for project finance Evaluation of black mass processing at Broken Hill Technology Centre Exploring a potential source of Australian feedstock for KCR. Broken Hill Cobalt Project Further advancement of project permitting General working capital and corporate costs to support both project activities and ongoing operations. Fundraising costs. CEO Dr. Andrew Tong said: “ This funding further strengthens our financial position and provides a clear runway for us to pursue our key initiatives into 2026, in particular, progressing the Kwinana Refinery to FID, evaluation of black mass processing in our Broken Hill Technology Centre, and further advancement of the Broken Hill Cobalt Project to project permitting. We are pleased to welcome several new highly regarded international institutional investors onto our register and appreciate the confidence of our existing and new shareholders .”
- December 8, 2025Business
Ascott Celebrates Milestone Year of Global Recognition, Including Fifth World's Leading Serviced Apartment Brand Title
2025 has been a year of breakthrough for Ascott, from the company’s first-time global recognition for environmental and accessibility leadership to ASR’s rise as one of the region’s most influential loyalty programmes. Pictured: Ascott ICC Guangzhou Singapore, 8 December 2025 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), concludes 2025 with unprecedented recognition across the global hospitality landscape. At the World Travel Awards 2025, Ascott secured its fifth World’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand title as part of a standout haul of 31 accolades across international and regional categories. The year also marked breakthrough achievements beyond product and service excellence, with Ascott Star Rewards named Best Hotel Loyalty Programme in Asia-Pacific by the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards 2025 and Ascott recognised with the World’s Leading Sustainable Accessibility & Inclusion Initiative at the World Sustainable Travel Hospitality Awards 2025. Together, these wins underscore Ascott’s transformation into the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “2025 has been a breakthrough year for Ascott, with our teams recognised for excellence across our brands, sustainability and guest loyalty. Our brands continued to lead globally, winning multiple World Travel Awards. We also secured breakthrough sustainability awards while advancing accessibility through Ascott CARES. In addition, Ascott Star Rewards grew to over seven million members in six years and claimed its first major loyalty awards. Every achievement reflects the dedication of our people to delivering heartfelt hospitality that our guests value and trust. Guided by our brand promise Stay Your Way, we will continue to deliver stays that adapt to the diverse needs of our guests, create memorable experiences, and make a lasting impact on hospitality worldwide.” Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott Reinforcing Global Leadership in Extended Stay Hospitality At the prestigious 32nd World Travel Awards held in Bahrain on 6 December 2025, Ascott captured 31 awards, cementing its position as the global leader in serviced apartments and extended stay accommodation. The company was crowned World’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand for the fifth time while La Clef Champs-Elysées Paris by The Crest Collection was named World’s Leading Serviced Apartments , a distinction held by an Ascott property for the fourth consecutive year. The French flagship property also secured Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartments title for the seventh consecutive year. Regionally, Ascott was named Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand for the 10th year, while Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila received Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartments for the third time. Ascott’s brands were also recognised as top serviced apartment brands across Europe, the Middle East and Oceania. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards honours excellence across all sectors of travel, tourism and hospitality, with winners determined by industry professionals and consumers worldwide. Ascott secured its fifth World’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand title at the World Travel Awards 2025. Beyond the World Travel Awards, Ascott continued to dominate Asia Pacific’s most prestigious hospitality accolades. The company’s namesake brand, Ascott, clinched Best Serviced Apartment Brand for the 16th consecutive year in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, with its Oakwood, Somerset and Citadines brands also securing top 10 positions. In addition, the company was named Best Serviced Apartment Brand in Asia-Pacific at the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards 2025; and earned the title of Best Serviced Residence Operator at the TTG Travel Awards 2025 and TTG China Travel Awards 2025. Pioneering Sustainable and Inclusive Hospitality Ascott’s commitment to responsible hospitality earned major recognition in 2025, with multiple first-time wins highlighting the company’s leadership in environmental stewardship and accessibility innovation. Beyond reducing carbon footprints across its global portfolio, Ascott pioneered industry-changing initiatives, including one of the world’s first open-access playbooks on disability inclusion, a practical resource empowering the broader hospitality sector on this essential journey. At the World Sustainable Travel Hospitality Awards 2025, organised in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, Ascott received dual recognition. The company was honoured with the World’s Leading Sustainable Accessibility & Inclusion Initiative award, while Ms Beh Siew Kim, Chief Financial & Sustainability Officer for Lodging at CLI and Managing Director for Japan & Korea at Ascott, was recognised as World’s Leading Sustainability Leader 2025 . Ms Beh’s recognition reflects her instrumental role in advancing Ascott CARES, the company’s sustainability framework that aligns growth with environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria. Her leadership earned further recognition in Singapore at the 2025 Sustainability Impact Awards organised by The Business Times and United Overseas Bank. Ascott received the Impact Enterprise Excellence Award for large enterprises, the company’s first win at this prestigious programme celebrating corporate sustainability leadership, while Ms Beh clinched the Impact Leader Excellence Award for inspiring transformative change across the organisation and industry. In China, Ascott achieved its first major win at the 2025 Hospitality Industry ESG Innovation Competition organised by the China Hospitality Association, earning bronze in the lodging sector. Breakthrough Recognition for Guest Loyalty Excellence Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) achieved defining milestones in 2025, transitioning from an emerging programme to a recognised industry leader in its sixth year of operation. With membership surpassing seven million globally, ASR members account for over 90% of all digital bookings while demonstrating consistently higher stay frequency and spend – a testament to strategic investments in digital innovation, enriched benefits and personalised experiences. The programme secured its inaugural win as Best Hotel Loyalty Programme in Asia-Pacific at the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards 2025, one of the region’s most respected travel industry platforms. ASR’s strategic effectiveness was further validated at the Loyalty & Engagement Awards 2025 held by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE, earning Best Loyalty Strategy – Travel & Hospitality (Silver) and Best Loyalty Strategy – Collaborative Partnerships (Bronze) . These accolades reflect ASR’s maturity as a programme that drives meaningful guest engagement and repeat business for Ascott. Ms Chia Pei Siang, Head of Communications, Ascott, accepted the company's inaugural award for Best Hotel Loyalty Programme in Asia-Pacific at the Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards 2025. Mr Tan Gan Hup, Vice President, Loyalty, Marketing and Partnerships (right) received the award for Best Loyalty Strategy – Travel & Hospitality (Silver)on behalf of the Ascott Star Rewards team. These milestones highlight a year of breakthrough for Ascott, from the company’s first-time global recognition for environmental and accessibility leadership to ASR’s rise as one of the region’s most influential loyalty programmes. Looking ahead, Ascott will continue building on this momentum to deliver exceptional stays and drive meaningful impact across its global portfolio. The list of awards won by Ascott and its properties at the World Travel Awards 2025 is appended below: World Travel Awards 2025 – Grand Final 1. World’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 2. World’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: La Clef Champs-Elysées Paris by The Crest Collection World Travel Awards – Asia 2025 3. Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 4. Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartment 2025: Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila 5. Hong Kong’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 6. India’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: Somerset 7. India’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Somerset Greenways Chennai 8. Indonesia’s Leading Hotel Residences 2025: Citadines Berawa Beach Bali 9. Indonesia’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Ascott Kuningan Jakarta 10. Indonesia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 11. Kazakhstan’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Somerset City Centre Atyrau 12. Malaysia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 13. Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 14. Philippines’ Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Ascott Makati 15. Thailand’s Leading Hotel Residences 2025: Somerset Rama 9 Bangkok 16. Thailand’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Ascott Sathorn Bangkok 17. Thailand’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 18. Vietnam’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 19. South Korea’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul World Travel Awards – Oceania 2025 20. Oceania’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: Quest Apartment Hotels World Travel Awards – Europe 2025 21. Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: Citadines 22. Europe’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: La Clef Champs-Elysées Paris by The Crest Collection 23. Belgium’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Citadines Sainte-Catherine Brussels 24. France’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: Citadines 25. France’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris 26. Spain’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Citadines Ramblas Barcelona 27. Türkiye’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Somerset Maslak Istanbul World Travel Awards – Middle East 2025 28. Middle East’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 29. Saudi Arabia’s Leading Serviced Apartment Brand 2025: The Ascott Limited 30. Saudi Arabia’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh World Travel Awards – Africa 2025 31. Africa’s Leading Serviced Apartments 2025: Somerset Westview Nairobi For more of Ascott’s awards, please visit: https://www.discoverasr.com/en/the-ascott-limited/awards .
- December 5, 2025Event Announcement
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai and Maison Schiaparelli Unveil a Stunning Christmas Tree
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai , proudly marks the opening of its festive season with the unveiling of a bespoke couture Christmas tree created by Daniel Roseberry for Maison Schiaparelli. This creation pays homage to one of the most intimate threads woven through Schiaparelli's history: the stars. From a young age, Elsa Schiaparelli was introduced to astronomy by her uncle, the famed astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli, who would let her gaze through his telescope into the infinite cosmos. This early fascination with celestial bodies later shaped her iconic Zodiac collection (Fall/Winter 1938–39), filled with cosmic symbols, constellations, and references to the solar system. At Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, Daniel Roseberry interprets this celestial heritage with a tree made of 960 golden metal rods radiating from the centre, recalling the solar rays of the Apollo of Versailles cape, an emblem first imagined by Elsa Schiaparelli for her Zodiac collection and reinterpreted by Roseberry in Haute Couture FW25–26. The rods appear in three finishes: full glitter, mirror-polished gold, and perforated reflective metal that softly filters the light, like a modern constellation. Beating from within the tree is a monumental red heart inspired by Daniel Roseberry's Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2025–26 collection. Sculptural and visceral, the heart is built on a 3D‑printed structure and powered by a mechanical system that beats at 60 pulses per minute, echoing a real human rhythm. Adorned with 1,458 red Swarovski crystals, it marries traditional savoir‑faire with modern technology. Maison Schiaparelli is in residence at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai throughout the year, while offering exclusive experiences this festive season , including access to the Middle East's only Schiaparelli Suite. For reservations and more information, please contact +971 4 777 2222 or email [email protected] . About Schiaparelli With her wild imagination and revolutionary approach to fashion, Elsa Schiaparelli instilled a unique creative spirit to 20th Century design. Turning ordinary objects into some of the most memorable creations, Schiaparelli expressed her creative talents through fashion, fragrance, and what we refer to today as “merchandising”, blurring the boundaries between creative brilliance and commercial success, and developing an innovative business model that is still used by most major fashion houses today. Elsa Schiaparelli's iconic collaborations with artists like Dalí, Cocteau, Man Ray, Jean-Michel Franck and Giacometti, among others, became legendary. Her legacy has consistently contributed to mainstream culture throughout the decades and continues to inspire people across creative industries and continents. A true artist herself, Schiaparelli is the creative force behind some of fashion's most revolutionary shapes, techniques and colors, redefining new standards of style and what beauty means. In 2019, the house of Schiaparelli appointed Daniel Roseberry as Creative Director, based in the iconic Salons Schiaparelli at 21 place Vendome, Elsa's home and atelier. About Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai Located in one of Dubai’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, the resort’s elegant rooms and suites offer an abundance of space, combining contemporary décor with staggering views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s glittering skyline. Home to six renowned restaurants and bars including two signature restaurants, a destination spa spread over 2,000 square metres, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a kids’ club, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai is the region’s leading luxury hotel. Its unrivalled location with easy access to both Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport means that Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai is ideal for both business and leisure travellers. It also holds the status of being the closest beachfront resort to both Downtown Dubai and the financial and business districts.
- December 5, 2025Business
Sumitomo Metal Mining's Toyo Smelter & Refinery Achieved The Copper Mark
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. (TSE: 5713) is pleased to announce that its Toyo Smelter & Refinery (Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan) has achieved The Copper Mark as of November 18, 2025. The Copper Mark is an international framework established by the International Copper Association in 2019 to assure responsible production practices in the copper industry from the perspectives of environment, social, and governance (ESG). The initiatives undertaken at the Toyo Smelter & Refinery were objectively evaluated as meeting internationally recognized high standards for ESG, leading to the acquisition of this certification. Please check the below PDF file for details. Sumitomo Metal Mining's Toyo Smelter & Refinery Achieved The Copper Mark
- December 5, 2025Business
Yamaha Motor Launches Strategic Partnership with Nikon Instruments, USA - Creating Synergies Between Both Companies in Advanced Technologies and Support Services for Drug Discovery -
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 7272) announced today that the company has entered into a strategic partnership with Nikon Instruments Inc. (Head Office: New York, USA; regarding the initiatives of both companies in drug discovery and research processes. Through this partnership, the Nikon BioImaging Lab (NBIL) located in Boston Massachusetts, USA, will serve as a showroom for Yamaha Motor's innovative cell picking and imaging system, CELL HANDLER 2. By integrating NBIL's advanced imaging technologies with the capabilities of CELL HANDLER 2, the collaboration will provide dedicated support for U.S.-based researchers engaged in drug discovery and related research. Based on this collaboration, Yamaha Motor has installed its CELL HANDLER 2 at NBIL, the R&D hub operated by Nikon Instruments. This will give researchers in the United States access to Yamaha Motor's state-of-the-art cell picking and imaging system in the same facility as Nikon's cutting edge imaging technologies. In addition, as part of NBIL's support services for drug discovery and research, researchers considering the purchase of CELL HANDLER 2 will be able to conduct verification tests using their own samples to confirm the system's effectiveness in cell picking. This will allow the development of assay workflows tailored to each customer's specific research needs. Through this collaboration, the aim is to expand the use of both Nikon Instruments' imaging technologies and Yamaha Motor's CELL HANDLER 2, system for streamlined research and experimental workflows involving cells. Nikon Instruments is a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Nikon Corporation (Head Office: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo), engaged in the development and manufacture of optical and digital imaging technologies for biomedical applications. The company established NBIL in 2019 to provide research support specializing in microscope imaging and image analysis. Yamaha Motor launched CELL HANDLER 2, a cell picking and imaging system designed to enhance the efficiency and refinement of research and experiments for new drug development, in March 2025. Having identified strong synergies with Nikon Instruments, which also offers products and services for cellular research, we reached this agreement. CELL HANDLER 2 Nikon BioImaging Lab, USA
- December 5, 2025Business
Grid My Business Wins 21 G2 Winter 2026 Badges Including Fastest Implementation and Easiest To Use Awards
Grid My Business, a local rank tracker tool , has received 21 badges in G2’s Winter 2026 Reports across both Local Marketing and Local SEO categories. The recognition is based on verified user reviews evaluating the platform’s implementation speed, ease of use, and customer outcomes. G2 publishes seasonal reports based on real customer reviews, providing businesses with insight into which tools meet user needs. For Grid My Business, this round of recognition highlights its ability to help small businesses and agencies get started quickly while maintaining high usability standards. Key achievements include Fastest Implementation for Small Business in both Local Marketing and Local SEO categories, along with Easiest To Use for Small Business in Local SEO. These awards address common challenges faced by small business owners who need tools that work immediately without long learning curves. Awards by Category: Local Marketing: Grid® Report for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 – High Performer Small-Business Grid® Report for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 – High Performer for Small Business Implementation Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Small-Business Implementation Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 – Fastest Implementation for Small Business Small-Business Relationship Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Relationship Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Results Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Small-Business Results Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Usability Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Small-Business Usability Index for Local Marketing | Winter 2026 Local SEO: Grid® Report for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Small-Business Grid® Report for Local SEO | Winter 2026 – High Performer for Small Business Implementation Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Small-Business Implementation Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 – Fastest Implementation for Small Business Asia Pacific Regional Grid® Report for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Small-Business Relationship Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Relationship Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Small-Business Results Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Results Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Small-Business Usability Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 – Easiest To Use for Small Business Usability Index for Local SEO | Winter 2026 Additionally, Grid My Business scored 98% in Ease of Use, 94% in Ease of Setup, 93% in Ease of Admin, and 92% Likelihood to Recommend from G2 reviewers. Users also rated key features highly: 93% for Rank Tracking and 92% for Dashboards and Reporting. "When we were designing Grid My Business, we really thought about the real struggles businesses face every day," said Mark Gan, Community Manager at Grid My Business. "We wanted to make sure users could start using the platform immediately without getting stuck in complicated setup or workflows, so seeing these awards tells us that we got that part right, and most importantly, we’re actually making work easier for our users." The platform provides geo-grid rank tracking with 98.7% accuracy, allowing businesses to monitor their local search rankings across specific areas. Additional features include competitor tracking, AI-powered review management, NAP distribution to 500+ high-authority media outlets, and white-label reporting designed for agencies managing multiple clients. Grid My Business is used by local businesses with physical locations, service-area businesses such as plumbers and landscapers, and digital marketing agencies handling client accounts at scale. For more information about Grid My Business and its local SEO capabilities, visit https://gridmybusiness.com .
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