Media OutReach
World Population Day: Swiss Re Life & Health CEO says the next decade will re-write the intergenerational contract
By Paul Murray, CEO Life & Health Reinsurance, Swiss Re
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 July 2026 – Op-ed by Paul Murray, CEO Life & Health Reinsurance, Swiss Re.
Ten years.
That is roughly how long we have before many societies reach one of the most defining demographic tipping points of our era: the point at which the “new” silver economy (over 65’s) outnumber people aged 30-59 who have traditionally been the bedrock of the life and pensions system.
The significance of this shift goes far beyond demographics.
It represents a symbolic moment that forces us to rethink the intergenerational contract: how we provide care and financial security for people as they move into later life – and how we finance a new set of needs.
The demographic evidence is already visible across major economies. In the US, adults aged 65 and over already outnumber children in 11 states. Singapore’s over-65 population has nearly doubled in a decade to 21%. Japan is approaching 30%. The UK, France and Germany are not far behind
These numbers are well-known. But their meaning is not yet fully reflected in our industry’s existing product strategy.
The tipping point is also more than a statistical curiosity. We will experience it through the decisions we make coming into retirement and to secure the future of the generation coming after us. We will need to make new choices on how we fund care. We will need to make new assumptions about when to retire. And we will face a new reality around how much of the financial burden falls on the state, families or the individual.
Families have always carried the weight of old age, even as pensions, healthcare systems and social care programmes have broadened that responsibility across society.
But the arithmetic underpinning the system is breaking. Globally, the ratio of working-age people financially supporting each person over 65 is projected to fall from around five-to-one in 2021 to three-to-one by 2050. Across developed markets, debates about pension reform, healthcare funding and retirement ages reflect the same underlying question: how do we maintain security and dignity later in life when there are fewer hands to carry the weight?
It’s not a crisis of demographics. It’s a crisis of design – our systems were built for shorter lives and larger workforces, and they haven’t been rebuilt for the world we are actually entering.
That insight matters because it challenges how we think about insurance’s role. I believe we have less than a decade to develop the products that the older consumers who make up the Silver Economy – and their families – will need.
There will be no silver bullet. We cannot return to a single solution based around family care versus public provision. The individual retiree will be the focus, but our thinking will need to be based on a more collaborative model in which families, governments, communities and the private sector work together.
Recent Swiss Re consumer research in France and Germany revealed something striking. People don’t think about later life in terms of pensions or insurance policies. They think about practical outcomes: staying independent, being resilient when health shocks hit, not becoming a burden to their children.
Our industry has spent decades optimising for wealth accumulation and income protection during working years. Ageing societies demand we apply the same rigour to what happens after.
That does not mean the intergenerational contract has failed. It means it is evolving.
We are already seeing what that evolution looks like in practice.
- Senior health products in Asia are closing a real gap —The median age of cancer diagnosis is 67, yet many critical illness policies expire before retirement even begins. The result is high out-of-pocket expenses, stressed public healthcare, and increased burden on families. With dedicated products to cover later life illnesses, such as senior cancer products we are effectively closing a protection gap.
- Long term care in France has had some success with private solutions alongside public provision. With over 1.4 million people covered by private long term care insurance, France has built a strong risk pool that directly addresses one of the strongest concerns expressed by consumers: not becoming a burden on the next generation.
- Deferred annuities offer a third path beyond the binary “draw-down versus annuity” thinking. By combining flexibility today with guaranteed income later, they help transform longevity from an individual financial risk into one that can be shared more broadly.
At first glance these solutions appear very different. In reality, they are pieces of the same puzzle. Each expands the circle of support around the individual. They help families carry less of the burden alone, and they complement the work of state safety nets.
That is what the next evolution of the intergenerational contract looks like in practice.
Ageing societies are one of humanity’s great achievements. But if our products and institutions stay built for a demographic reality that no longer exists, achievement curdles into liability.
We have a decade to close that gap. Let’s treat it as a product-development window, not a deadline.
Disclaimer
Certain statements and illustrations contained herein are forward-looking and are made for informational purposes only. These statements (including as to plans, objectives, targets, and trends) and illustrations provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to a historical fact or current fact. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Swiss Re undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Further information on forward looking statements and the use of information contained in this publication can be found in the Legal Notice section on Swiss Re’s website.
Hashtag: #SwissRe #lifeinsurance #reinsurance
https://www.swissre.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/swiss-re/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Swiss Re
The Swiss Re Group is one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, insurance and other forms of insurance-based risk transfer, working to make the world more resilient. It anticipates and manages risk – from natural catastrophes to climate change, from ageing populations to cyber crime. The aim of the Swiss Re Group is to enable society to thrive and progress, creating new opportunities and solutions for its clients. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, where it was founded in 1863, the Swiss Re Group operates through a network of around 70 offices globally.
Media OutReach
The 15th Canon x McDull Inter-school Ink Cartridge Recycling Award Presentation Ceremony Advancing Environmental Education with Collective Efforts
Adhering to Canon’s corporate philosophy “Kyosei”, Canon Hong Kong has spared no effort to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development, injecting green elements into different kinds of corporate activities. Since the launch of “Ink Cartridge Recycling Program” in 2009, Canon Hong Kong has invited the beloved local cartoon character, McDull, to serve as the program ambassador. With the ambition of cultivating the environmental awareness of the next generation, the program was extended to the education sector in 2011, calling on support from primary and secondary schools in the annual competition. Now in its 15th year, the program has reached an important milestone and received overwhelming responses from more than 300 organizations, housing estates, shopping malls, supermarkets and schools, all helping to set up recycling boxes to encourage the public to recycle used inkjet printer cartridges of all brands. To deepen students’ understanding and engagement with environmental issues, Canon Hong Kong has organized over 230 environmental seminars for participating schools, reaching over 70,000 students with messages about recycling and sustainable development. As of June 2026, over 295,000 ink cartridges were collected. Recycled ink cartridges were dismantled, while the metals and plastics were being recycled into raw materials for other products.
In the welcome speech at the ceremony, Ms. Candy Mau, Director of Corporate Communications and General Administration Division of Canon Hong Kong, affirmed the winning schools for their exemplar dedication in promoting recycling. A total of 8 schools were recognized in the category of “Highest No. of Recycled Ink Cartridges”. Ms. Mau noted that the escalating threat of global warming and climate change has sounded an alarm for the Earth, reminding us of the need to protect the environment together. She emphasized the importance of promoting environmental protection to the young generation from an early age and urged schools to build a better and sustainable society together by continuously promoting environmental education.
After the ceremony, Canon Hong Kong arranged a “Build Your Own Camera” STEAM parent-child workshop for the students and parents. The activity allowed them to assemble and build their own handcraft camera models, thereby learning basic optical principles. Through interactive demonstrations and disassembling camera structures, participants gained a deeper understanding of the science behind imaging while enjoying the joy of creativity, technology and photography. The workshop added a memorable learning experience to the ceremony and brought the event to a successful close.
Hashtag: #Canon #McDull
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Canon Hongkong Company Limited
Canon Inc. (TSE:7751) was founded in 1937 in Japan. Its predecessor, Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory, produced Japan’s first 35 mm focal-plane-shutter camera “Kwanon” in 1934. From there, Canon Inc. expanded into the photocopying and printing industries, launching Japan’s first plain paper copier NP-1100 in 1970 and the world’s first inkjet printer BJ-80 in 1985. Through the years, Canon Inc. has acquired in-depth experience in digital imaging product manufacturing, research and development. Pioneering in innovative product development, Canon Inc. holds the most technology patents in the imaging industry. Canon Inc. also makes significant contributions to promote photography. Today, Canon Inc. has a strong global presence, representing one of the most important market players in the imaging, office and industrial product categories. As of 31 December 2025, Canon’s global revenue was US$30 billion.
In 1971, Canon Hongkong Co., Ltd. (Canon Hong Kong) was established as one of the first Canon offices in Asia. Canon Hong Kong is a Total Imaging Solution provider, providing professional pre-sales, marketing and after-sales services for all Canon products and solutions in Hong Kong and Macau. With the solely owned subsidiary Canon Business Solutions (Guangdong) Co., Ltd. established in 2018; the company continues to deliver intelligent total business solutions and professional services to Greater Bay Area. Canon Hong Kong adheres to Canon’s corporate philosophy of “Kyosei”, encouraging the company and staff to engage in social, charitable and environmental activities for the community. Implementing an internationally recognized management system, Canon Hong Kong has achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 27001 (Canon Digital Production Center) certifications.
For more information about Canon Hong Kong, please visit our website: 
https://hk.canon.
Media OutReach
Booster Pack 09 “Here He Comes! Our Hero!” & Starter Deck 04 “Ultraman & Ultraman Cosmos” To Be Released on Friday, October 23! The Showa Ultraman Series Makes Its First Appearance!
BP09″Here He Comes! Our Hero!”／SD04 “Ultraman & Ultraman Cosmos”
BP09 “Here He Comes! Our Hero!” and SD04 “Ultraman & Ultraman Cosmos” introduce Ultraman Cosmos, one of the heroes most requested by players, alongside the original Ultraman, who makes his long-awaited debut from the Showa Ultraman series in the Ultraman Card Game.
These products also commemorate the 2nd Anniversary of the Ultraman Card Game, making them a special milestone release.
They also introduce the new “Color System” and the all-new “Boost Card” category. These additions expand strategic possibilities and offer greater deck-building diversity, delivering even more exciting and dynamic battles.
- Promotional Video
- Image: BP09 Booster Pack & SD04 Package
- View image: https://bit.ly/4h10Bj4
Feature 1: Ultraman and Ultraman Cosmos Join the Game!
The original Ultraman and Ultraman Cosmos finally make their debut in the Ultraman Card Game.
Build decks and experience gameplay that faithfully recreates the unique abilities, fighting styles, and identities of these legendary heroes.
- Ultraman also appears as a serial-numbered card in BP08.
To celebrate this milestone, Ultraman is also featured as a serial-numbered card in Booster Pack 08: Converging Bonds, released on Friday, July 10.
- Image: Ultraman and Ultraman Cosmos
- View image: https://bit.ly/3SNXSzy
Feature 2: Introducing the New Card Category – “Boost Cards”
A brand-new card category, Boost Cards, joins Character Cards and Scene Cards as a new card type.
Boost Cards are inspired by iconic elements from across the Ultraman series, including Defense Teams and memorable items used throughout the franchise.
More details on Boost Cards, including gameplay mechanics and previewed card effects, will be revealed at a later date.
- Image: Boost Card
- View image: https://bit.ly/4y8EOMD
Feature 3: New Gameplay Mechanic – “Color System”
BP09 introduces the new Color System.
Under this system, every Character Card belongs to one of five colors:
- Red
- Blue
- Purple
- Yellow
- Green
Cards released before the introduction of the Color System, along with cards that do not have a color attribute, are treated as Colorless, allowing them to remain fully playable.
Combined with Boost Cards, the Color System adds greater deck-building depth, strategic decision-making, and exciting comeback opportunities.
More details on the Color System will be announced soon.
- Image: Colour System
- View image: https://bit.ly/4vt4h0Q
Official Accessories
Two new official card sleeve designs and a new playmat will also be available to help protect and showcase your collection.
1. Ultraman Card Game Official Card Sleeves (Beta Capsule)
Features the Beta Capsule, Ultraman’s transformation device, together with its iconic Ultra Sign.
2. Ultraman Card Game Official Card Sleeves (Cosmo Pluck)
Features Ultraman Cosmos’ transformation device, the Cosmo Pluck, together with its Ultra Sign.
3. Ultraman Card Game Official Playmat (Ultraman)
A playmat featuring the iconic debut scene of Ultraman as its design.
It also includes a newly added Boost Card Area, supporting the latest game rules.
- Image: Accessories (Sleeves, Playmat)
- View image: https://bit.ly/4eON4d3
Booster Pack 09 “Here He Comes! Our Hero!”
- Release Date：October 23rd, 2026 (Friday)
Contents
- 12 cards per pack
- 24 packs per display box
※Box Topper is not included in this release
Starter Deck 04 “Ultraman ＆ Ultraman Cosmos”
- Release Date: October 23rd, 2026 (Friday)
Contents
- 1 50 card pre-constructed deck (20 card types)
- 1 pack of BP09「Here He Comes! Our Hero!」
- 1 playsheet
Ultraman Card Game Official Sleeves 2 types (Beta Capsule/Cosmo Pluck)
- Release Date: October 23rd, 2026 (Friday)
Ultraman Card Game Official Playmat (Ultraman）
- Release Date: October 23rd, 2026 (Friday)
Regarding Ultraman Card Game
The Ultraman Card Game is a trading card game designed based on the Ultraman Universe and combines collectability with playability that appeals to both adults and children.
Official Name: Ultraman Card Game
Distribution Areas: Retail, toy stores, and trading card shops in distribution countries
Official Website:
https://ultraman-cardgame.com/
Official Social Media:
https://x.com/ucg_en (English X)
https://linktr.ee/ultramancardgame (List)
Hashtag: #UltramanCardGame #BP09 #SD04
https://ultraman-cardgame.com/https://linktr.ee/ultramancardgame
https://x.com/ucg_en
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Ancient Port, New Voyages: Ningbo’s Smart Manufacturing Expands Global Trade Footprint via Maritime Silk Road
Separated by thousands of miles, the two millennia-old port cities reconnected, leveraging their ports as a bond and cultural exchanges as a cohesive force to hold in-depth talks on integrated port-city development and bilateral economic and trade connectivity.
This cross-Indian Ocean dialogue echoes the ancient Maritime Silk Road while charting a brand-new outbound development path. As a pivotal starting port of the ancient Maritime Silk Road, Ningbo is building a new global trade landscape powered by smart manufacturing.
A thousand years ago, merchant vessels from Mingzhou Port set sail southward loaded with Yue Kiln celadon porcelain, passing through Ceylon to deliver Oriental crafts across the Indian Ocean coasts. Precious gemstones and spices traveled the same sea route back to regions south of the Yangtze River, laying the groundwork for the earliest cultural exchange between the two ports through trade. Today, the cargo carried by giant cargo ships has undergone a dramatic transformation. Beyond traditional daily necessities, intelligent equipment, digital home appliances and industrial robots now dominate shipments.
Official statistics show that Ningbo’s exports of intelligent equipment, including mechanical arms and industrial robots, hit 440 million yuan in 2025, surging more than 40% year-on-year. From January to May this year, Ningbo’s exports of mechanical and electrical products maintained steady growth, reaching 247 billion yuan, a 4.1% year-on-year increase and accounting for 58.0% of the city’s total export volume. The new energy foreign trade sector saw explosive growth, with exports of new energy vehicles, lithium batteries, and photovoltaic products jumping 138.4% year-on-year, with electric vehicle exports skyrocketing 215.9%. Smart manufactured goods are continuously expanding the scope of Ningbo’s foreign trade.
Complementing the Colombo forum, an exhibition highlights Ningbo’s outstanding going-global enterprises and their products, vividly illustrating the profound shift in Ningbo’s trade structure.
Alongside time-honored Maritime Silk Road staples such as celadon porcelain and silk, Ningbo’s smart manufactured products—including AI translation glasses, intelligent outdoor gear and digital small home appliances—occupy prominent display spaces across the venue. In Sri Lanka, Ningbo smart water meters are widely adopted nationwide, while handheld cooling fans and intelligent kitchen appliances have entered ordinary households.
Leveraging Colombo Port’s transshipment advantages, massive volumes of Ningbo smart manufactured goods are distributed onward to Europe, the Middle East and beyond. What Ningbo exports today is no longer mere commodities, but a complete outbound solution integrating technology, brand value and after-sales services.
Faced with mounting challenges including homogeneous global market competition and rising trade barriers, Ningbo’s manufacturing sector has abandoned the old model of low-cost OEM production, relying on intelligent transformation to consolidate its competitive edge in overseas markets.
Over more than a decade of digital transformation efforts, Ningbo has achieved full digital upgrading of all industrial enterprises above designated size. A large number of local factories have built unmanned black-light workshops and flexible production lines, escaping vicious price competition through continuous technological iteration. Represented by five specialized, sophisticated, distinctive and innovative enterprises dubbed Ningbo’s “Five Little Tigers”—famous for their core proprietary technologies, including highly sophisticated visual inspection equipment, heat-resistant materials, sun-proof coatings, puncture-proof materials and self-drilling fasteners—these niche manufacturers have developed differentiated technical routes and full-spectrum production capacity, cementing irreplaceable competitiveness for Ningbo smart manufacturing on global markets.
Beyond trade expansion, Ningbo has built a supporting cultural communication system to ensure “products go global, accompanied by local culture”.
The launch of Sri Lanka’s first “One-Meter Cultural Space” cultural station during the Colombo event marks a tangible milestone of Ningbo’s go-global initiative. Built on enterprises’ overseas outlets, these miniature cultural exhibition halls integrate intangible cultural heritage crafts, urban stories and smart products, enabling overseas clients to experience cutting-edge manufacturing while gaining insight into Ningbo’s profound cultural heritage.
During the twin-city story-sharing session, Ningbo entrepreneurs based in Sri Lanka and local designers blending Chinese and Sri Lankan aesthetics shared stories of bilateral exchanges. Economic and trade ties have evolved into a bond for people-to-people communication, bridging divides in cross-cultural trade.
From Tang-dynasty celadon porcelain sailing across the Indian Ocean to intelligent equipment shipping to every corner of the globe, Ningbo, the ancient Maritime Silk Road port, has preserved its enduring gene of openness. Where exchanges once relied purely on commodity trade, today smart manufacturing underpins a stable, diversified and high-value-added global trade network.
The Ningbo-Colombo dialogue stands as a vivid microcosm of this transformation: the port still links lands and seas, yet the core of its trade has undergone a full intelligent upgrade.
Rooted in its historical legacy as a key Maritime Silk Road hub, Ningbo has consolidated its industrial foundation through a decade of digital development, expanded global market reach via worldwide port networks, and softened trade cooperation through cultural exchanges. This brand-new outbound shipping route forged by smart manufacturing has not only reshaped the city’s foreign trade landscape, but also delivered a replicable port-city development model for Chinese manufacturing to go global.
Hashtag: #NingboSmartManufacturing #MaritimeSilkRoad #GlobalTrade
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
