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Ascott’s Citadines Brand Surpasses 200 Properties Globally, Powered by Strong Momentum Since Brand Refresh

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  • Citadines strengthens leadership in the resilient upper-midscale segment through rapid conversions and geographical diversification
  • Franchise model gains momentum as a driver of scalable, efficient growth
  • Global brand campaign amplifies refreshed Citadines lifestyle with activ∞ and “For the Love of Coffee” experiences across operational properties

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 September 2025 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), has hit a major milestone with its Citadines portfolio surpassing 200 properties globally, driven by asset-light growth through management and franchise agreements. The upper-midscale conversion brand now comprises 205 properties and approximately 35,000 units. Of these, more than 60%, or 127 properties and about 22,200 units, are currently operational.

Slated to open in 2H 2026, Citadines Hongkou Plaza Shanghai will operate under a franchise agreement, and will bring the total number of Citadines properties in the tier-one Chinese city to around 10.

Since the brand refresh three years ago, Ascott has signed more than 50 Citadines properties totalling about 8,000 units, underscoring strong market confidence in the brand’s renewed direction. A quarter of these signings were conversion projects. This expansion brought Citadines into 18 new cities, strategically targeting high-potential tier-2 and tier-3 markets. Key additions range from Colmar (France), Hobart (Australia) and Liverpool (United Kingdom) to Surabaya (Indonesia), Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Udupi (India), Tangier and Marrakech (Morocco) and Kuwait. The brand has also broadened its footprint across China’s major hubs, entering Changshu, Dalian, Foshan, Guilin, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Tianjin and Zhuhai.

Conversions Powering Growth
Conversions enabling fast market entry accounted for 61% of Ascott’s unit openings globally in the first seven months of 2025, highlighting strong owner demand for swift and efficient operational launches. This momentum aligns with Citadines’ conversion-ready model, which fast-tracks the rebranding and activation of existing properties. For example, Citadines Antasari Jakarta was converted and opened within three weeks in August 2025, while Citadines City Centre Liverpool completed its transformation in around three months and opened in June 2025, a demonstration of the brand’s agility and owner-friendly execution.

Aligning with a strong owner demand for swift market entry, the 175-unit Citadines Antasari Jakarta began operations within just three weeks of rebranding. With a medley of rooms and suites, the property also houses recreational facilities including a swimming pool, fitness area as well as spa.
Aligning with a strong owner demand for swift market entry, the 175-unit Citadines Antasari Jakarta began operations within just three weeks of rebranding. With a medley of rooms and suites, the property also houses recreational facilities including a swimming pool, fitness area as well as spa.

Franchise Growth Gains Traction
Citadines currently has 15 franchised properties comprising approximately 2,000 units across its operating and pipeline portfolio. As owner interest continues to grow in key markets, franchise agreements are expected to become an increasingly important driver of the brand’s global expansion.

In China, where Ascott launched its franchise strategy for Citadines earlier this year to tap into a rapidly maturing market, four of five signings year-to-date have been franchise agreements. These include locations in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Wuxi and Xi’an. Among these, Citadines Universiade Centre Longgang Shenzhen is on track to open in November 2025, about eight months after signing, underscoring the speed and efficiency of the franchise model.

Outside of Asia, Citadines Almaz Casablanca marks a key milestone as the brand’s debut property in Morocco, opened in early 2025 under a franchise agreement signed in late 2024. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Mohammed V International Airport, the property offers easy access to key financial, educational and lifestyle destinations.

With franchise growth gaining traction for the Citadines brand, Citadines Almaz Casablanca marked the brand’s debut property in Morocco. Signed under a franchise agreement in 2024 before opening in early 2025, the property houses 61 studio and one-bedroom apartments, and is located just 30 minutes from the Mohammed V International Airport.
With franchise growth gaining traction for the Citadines brand, Citadines Almaz Casablanca marked the brand’s debut property in Morocco. Signed under a franchise agreement in 2024 before opening in early 2025, the property houses 61 studio and one-bedroom apartments, and is located just 30 minutes from the Mohammed V International Airport.

Favourable Market Trends Fuel Growth
Citadines’ growth aligns with favourable trends in the upper-midscale hospitality segment. Industry analysis shows this segment consistently outperformed both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, delivering more predictable returns backed by strong brand recognition, streamlined operations and a flexible customer base[1]. The broader midscale hotel market, valued at US$115.2 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% through 2033, driven by rising disposable incomes and growing demand for value-driven accommodation[2]. This expanding demand, particularly among emerging middle-class populations worldwide, creates fertile ground for Citadines to scale strategically.

Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “Citadines stands out to owners for its built-in versatility, enabled by Ascott’s flex-hybrid model that seamlessly supports both short and extended stays. As a leading brand in the resilient upper-midscale segment, Citadines offers flexibility, operational efficiency and strong customer appeal. This positioning has unlocked scalable growth opportunities, particularly through franchising. Our franchise model is conversion-friendly and operationally efficient, helping partners enter the market faster with lower complexity. We are seeing promising momentum in key markets, where franchise deals now account for a meaningful share of signings. As more owners seek trusted partners and high-performing midscale brands, franchise-led growth will become a key driver of Citadines’ continued global expansion.”

A Global Brand with Infinite Possibilities
Since acquiring Citadines in 2004, Ascott has transformed it from a Europe-centric regional chain into a truly global hospitality platform. This evolution is reflected in a diversified footprint spanning Asia Pacific (70%), Europe (20%) and a growing presence across the Middle East, Africa and Turkey.

Designed for globally minded professionals, Citadines blends the space and comfort of apartment living with the practical conveniences of a hotel. From fully equipped rooms and intuitive social spaces to curated local experiences – including a good cup of coffee – every stay inspires comfort, connection and discovery. Embodying its brand essence of “Infinite Possibilities”, Citadines embraces the spirit of movement and exploration, offering guests the freedom to live, work and play.

As Citadines evolves into a multi-typology brand, it is expanding beyond urban centres to include resort destinations. Examples include Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc in Vietnam, a 348-unit beachfront property anchoring a vibrant mixed-use precinct on the island’s southwest coast. Slated to open in 2027, the property will feature premium amenities such as a spa, all-day dining and event spaces. Also in the pipeline is Citadines Mactan Cebu Resort in the Philippines, set to open in 2028. The 303-unit resort will offer a full suite of recreational facilities, including rooftop and beachfront pools, wellness amenities and a spa.

Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Citadines is now Ascott’s largest brand and one of our fastest-growing brands, reflecting its global appeal among travellers. Along with its expansion, we are evolving the brand to meet the needs of loyal guests who increasingly blur the lines between work, leisure and discovery. Citadines is thoughtfully designed to support this lifestyle, with convertible room features, café-style check-ins and programming that supports exploration and promotes wellness. Through our Ascott Star Rewards programme, guests can earn and redeem points across a broader Citadines network, from dynamic city stays to relaxing resort escapes. This multi-typology approach strengthens Citadines as a trusted, versatile brand for global travellers seeking both familiarity and adventure. As the brand continues to scale, we remain focused on deepening guest engagement, building brand love and delivering experiences that resonate at every step of the journey.”

Highlights from Citadines Brand Campaign 2025
This August and September, Citadines properties worldwide are buzzing with exceptional energy as “Citazens”, the brand’s passionate associates, deliver almost 200 curated experiences across 23 countries under the global activ∞ (pronounced “activate”) programme.

Launched in 2022 as part of the Citadines brand refresh, activ∞ aims to promote well-balanced living by helping guests uncover fresh perspectives and explore each destination like a local. This year’s activ∞ series centre around the curation of exploratory trails to enable guests to hit the ground running as they rediscover the cities they love. From night runs to cultural deep dives, each property brings its own spin.

Highlights include:

Whether walking, running or cycling, Citadines makes it easy to live like a local through movement and discovery. Visit the Citadines activ∞ webpage to discover the latest activities at your next destination.

And the journey does not stop there. This October, in celebration of International Coffee Day, Citadines will bring back “For the Love of Coffee” – a curated series of coffee-themed experiences and community collaborations across its global portfolio, uniting guests and locals over a shared passion for coffee. Stay tuned to the Citadines brand webpage for the latest highlights.

Where Citadines is Opening Next
From now until the end of 2026, Citadines will open 20 more properties. Upcoming launches include Citadines on the Pier Hobart in Australia, Citadines Vue Aston Phnom Penh in Cambodia, Citadines Paragon Davao in the Philippines, Citadines Hongkou Plaza Shanghai and Citadines Huadu Guangzhou in China, Citadines Connect West Surabaya in Indonesia and Citadines Racine Casablanca in Morocco – delivering smartly designed stays with just the right amenities to fuel discovery for guests across Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.

Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Citadines #Hospitality




The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The Ascott Limited

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes , , , , , , , , , , , , and .

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of , Ascott generates fee-related earnings by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit . Alternatively, connect with Ascott on , , and .

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 13 August 2025, CLI had S$117 billion of funds under management held via stakes in seven listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres, private credit and special opportunities.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm. In 2025, CapitaLand Group celebrates 25 years of excellence in real estate and continues to innovate and shape the industry.

As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.

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SIM and the True Worth of Education: Beyond Tuition Fees

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21 hours ago

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07/12/2025

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – As Singaporean families plan for higher education, tuition costs often dominate the conversation. However, the more critical consideration lies in understanding the relationship between cost and value. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the financial implications of pursuing studies at local public universities, private institutions such as SIM, and overseas universities, while highlighting SIM’s distinctive proposition that extends beyond competitive pricing.

Local Public Universities: Affordable and Prestigious

Singapore’s autonomous universities remain among the most cost-effective options for Singapore citizens, thanks to the Ministry of Education’s Tuition Grant. For example, undergraduate programs at NUS and NTU cost around S$8,250 per year for Singaporeans, while SMU averages S$11,500 annually. Other institutions such as SUTD, SUSS and SIT fall within similar ranges, typically between S$8,000 and S$13,500 per year. Over a three- to four-year degree, this translates to roughly S$25,000 to $54,000 in tuition fees.

The autonomous universities offer strong reputations and excellent graduate outcomes, but entry to some programme is highly competitive, and program flexibility may be limited compared to private or overseas options.

Overseas Universities: Prestige Comes at a Price

For families considering an overseas education, costs escalate dramatically. Tuition at U.S. private universities averages US$50,000 to US$60,000 per year (about S$70,000 to S$84,000), with living expenses adding another US$10,000 to US$15,000 annually. In the UK, fees range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year (approximately S$17,000 to $65,000), while Canada and Australia typically charge S$14,000 to $28,000 for tuition alone. Factoring in accommodation, travel, and insurance, a four-year overseas degree can easily exceed S$150,000.

While these programs offer prestige and cultural immersion, they also involve significant financial, visa, and lifestyle considerations.

SIM Global Education: International Degrees at Local Cost

SIM offers a compelling alternative for students seeking global credentials without the high cost of studying abroad. Through partnerships with leading universities from the UK, Australia, the U.S., Canada, and Europe, SIM delivers more than 140 programs in Singapore, allowing students to earn internationally recognized degrees, essentially the same degree if you studied overseas, but locally at SIM. Tuition fees vary by program, for example, a University of London BSc ranges from S$26,685 to S$42,835, a University of Birmingham top-up degree costs S$42,000 to S$57,100, and a degree from the University at Buffalo falls between S$41,700 and S$74,600 for Singaporeans.

Beyond competitive pricing, SIM emphasizes value. Degrees are awarded by partner universities and aligned with global academic standards. The institution holds EduTrust Star certification and ISO accreditation, ensuring the best quality assurance. Students benefit from bond-free scholarships and bursaries, as well as Career Connect services that provide internships, mentoring, and employer networking. Graduate outcomes are strong, with nearly 80% of SIM graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.

Why Value Matters as Much as Cost

Choosing a degree isn’t just about tuition fees, it’s about the total investment, which includes living costs, global recognition, and career outcomes. Local autonomous universities such as NUS, NTU, and SMU remain highly attractive for their subsidized fees and strong reputations, making them one of the most cost-effective options for Singaporeans. However, entry is competitive, and program flexibility may be limited.

On the other end of the spectrum, overseas universities offer prestige and cultural immersion but often come with six-figure costs and additional living expenses. This is where SIM provides a strategic middle ground, delivering internationally recognized degrees from leading global universities at local cost. Students gain access to global curricula, industry-ready skills, and career networks without the financial burden of relocating overseas. For families seeking international exposure at sustainable costs, SIM combines affordability with the value of global education

References:

  1. NUS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/docs/info/administrative-policies-procedures/ugtuitioncurrent.pdf
  2. NTU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.ntu.edu.sg/docs/default-source/onestop@sac/2025/tuition-fees-ft-ay2025_12mar25.pdf?sfvrsn=b8c5474_1
  3. SMU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant
  4. SUTD Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.sutd.edu.sg/admissions/undergraduate/education-expenses/fees/tuition-fees/
  5. SUSS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
  6. SIT Fees from Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
  7. Comparison of Tuition Fees in US, UK, Canada and Australia – https://uninist.com/blog/financial-planning/comparison-of-tuition-fees-guide
  8. How much does college cost in 2025 – https://research.com/universities-colleges/how-much-does-college-cost
  9. Price of attending undergraduate institutions – https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cua
  10. University of London Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=1%7C
  11. University of Brimingham Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=10%7C

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

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A-Level vs Polytechnic: Understanding different pathways offer competitive edge at SIM

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2 days ago

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06/12/2025

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Singapore’s education system offers two popular tertiary pathways after post-secondary, A-Levels through Junior Colleges and Polytechnic diplomas. Both leading to higher education but differ in focus. A-Levels are academically rigorous and theory-driven, preparing students for university through subject-based learning over two years at junior colleges or three years at Millennia Institute.

Conversely, Polytechnic programmes emphasize applied learning, incorporating projects and industry attachments, and culminate in a diploma after three years. Understanding how these distinct approaches translate into admission considerations at SIM, one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions, is essential.

For students and parents, evaluating these options is critical to determining which pathway offers the greatest advantage in today’s competitive education landscape.

Applying with A-Levels

For students who have completed A-Levels, SIM requires applicants to meet the academic and English language criteria specified for each degree programme. According to SIM’s admissions process, candidates must submit their GCE A-Level certificates and transcripts along with other supporting documents. Entry is subject to programme-specific requirements set by SIM and its universities partner from Australia, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This pathway allows applicants to begin their degree studies immediately after junior college, provided they meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen programme.

Applying with a Polytechnic Diploma

Polytechnic graduates may be eligible for advanced standing and credit exemptions when applying to SIM’s degree programmes. The amount of exemption depends on the relevance of the diploma and the chosen degree. For example, IT-related diplomas from local polytechnics can receive up to two years of credit exemptions for certain programmes, such as those offered by the University of Wollongong, provided the applicant meets GPA requirements (typically 2.0 or above). Other diplomas may receive partial exemptions on a case-by-case basis. These exemptions reduce both time and cost, making SIM an attractive option for Polytechnic graduates who want to build on their applied learning experience.

Why It Matters

According to the Ministry of Education (MOE) statistics in 2021, roughly one in three Polytechnic graduates progress to local autonomous universities, compared to about four in five A‑Level and International Baccalaureate graduates. This gap underscores the importance of additional pathways such as SIM, which enable Polytechnic graduates to earn globally recognised degrees and expand their career prospects.

Student Stories: Two Potential Paths to Success at SIM

At SIM, students have the flexibility to shape their academic journey based on their background and career goals. For some, it’s about gaining a head start; for others, it’s about leveraging credit exemptions to fast-track progress. Ashley Ong and Violet Weng exemplify these two pathways, each leading to success in its own way.

Ashley Ong, an A-Level graduate, chose to begin her degree journey with the University at Buffalo Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She embraced every opportunity SIM offered such as internships, hackathons, and networking events, building practical skills and global perspectives that prepared her for a competitive business world.

Meanwhile, Violet Weng, a Singapore Polytechnic graduate, opted for a different approach. While pursuing her RMIT Bachelor of Business (Economics and Finance), Violet leveraged SIM’s credit exemptions to shorten her study duration and reduce costs, all while working full-time. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and study, accelerate graduation, and advance her career without compromise.

Both stories highlight SIM’s commitment to offering customized pathways for students whether you’re starting fresh or building on prior learning.

Conclusion

Whether you come from an academic route like A-Levels or an applied learning path through Polytechnic, the journey to a degree can look very different. A-Level graduates often enjoy a head start with direct entry, while Polytechnic graduates benefit from credit exemptions that recognize their practical skills. Both pathways reflect Singapore’s evolving education landscape where flexibility and global opportunities matter more than ever.

References:

  1. MOE Post-Secondary – https://www.moe.gov.sg/post-secondary/
  2. SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process
  3. SIM-UOW Credit Exemption Table – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/9c0ad90d-5910-4d47-b044-f815188a4b16/sim002856.pdf
  4. MOE Education Statistics Digest – https://www.moe.gov.sg/about-us/publications/education-statistics-digest
  5. Polytechnic graduates progression and subsidies for PEIs – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20210510-polytechnic-graduates-progression-and-subsidies-for-peis
  6. askST: How many uni places are there for Singaporeans? Is there a quota for poly grads? – https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/how-many-uni-places-for-locals-any-quota-for-poly-grads
  7. How 6 internships, 4 hackathons, and CCAs paved the way for Ashley – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-6-internships-4-hackathons-and-ccas-paved-the-way-for-ashley
  8. How this graduate pivoted her career by pursuing a degree while working full time – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-this-graduate-pivoted-her-career-by-pursuing-a-degree-while-working-full-time

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

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K. Wah Group Donates Additional HK$12.07 Million for Tai Po Recovery

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2 days ago

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06/12/2025

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Chairman Mr. Francis Lui Urges Public to Turn Compassion into Action and Vote 7 December

HONG KONG SAR – Wechat: 嘉华集团 K. Wah Group

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About K. Wah Group

K. Wah Group was founded in 1955 by Dr. Lui Che Woo and has since grown into a diversified multinational corporation. Its core businesses span property development and investment, integrated resort and entertainment, hospitality, and construction materials.

The Group has a strong presence in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Southeast Asia, and key international markets. Its major subsidiaries include two Hong Kong-listed flagships: K. Wah International Holdings Limited (HKEX: 00173), focused on premium property development and investment; and Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (HKEX: 00027), a constituent of the Hang Seng Index and a leading gaming and entertainment operator in Macau. Other key members of the Group include Stanford Hotels International and K. Wah Construction Materials Limited. Today, K. Wah Group comprises over 200 subsidiaries worldwide.

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