Media OutReach

Mafia: The Old Country Delivers Thrilling First Look at The Game Awards

Published

2 days ago

13/12/2024

Start of an all-new crime saga for the acclaimed Mafia franchise coming Summer 2025, available to wishlist now

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 December 2024 – Today, 2K and Hangar 13 released a new trailer for Mafia: The Old Country, introducing the brutal criminal underworld of 1900s Sicily at The Game Awards. Marking the start of a new crime saga for the acclaimed Mafia franchise, Mafia: The Old Country is an all-new story set in the Mafia universe, harkening back to the roots of organized crime with a compelling new cast of characters.

As a linear, narrative-driven game, Mafia: The Old Country is a focused package perfect for fans looking to engross themselves in an unfamiliar world of danger and intrigue. The graphically stunning cinematic experience features a story grounded in the brutal world of organized crime that authentically immerses players with dangerous combat systems featuring high-stakes, grounded stealth and gunplay mechanics.

Mafia: The Old Country introduces a new, original protagonist for players to embody. Enzo’s story unfolds in a time when skill with a stiletto blade was a deadly asset, a lupara sawed-off shotgun was a go-to firearm, murderous vendettas raged for decades, and mafiosi patrolled their protection rackets on foot, horseback, or behind the wheel of turn-of-the-century motorcars.

Through grit and determination, Enzo has survived a childhood of indentured labor in Sicily’s hellish sulfur mines. Now, through a twist of fate, he has the opportunity to join Don Torrisi’s crime family, and will do whatever it takes to carve out a better life for himself. By swearing an oath, Enzo has committed himself to the Torrisi family’s code of honor, with all the power and hardship it entails. He must never forget this simple truth: Family Takes Sacrifice.

“Mafia: The Old Country is a love letter to old-style, gritty Mafia stories where players can uncover the origins of organized crime,” said Nick Baynes, President of Hangar 13, “Everyone at Hangar 13 is committed to creating the most authentic and intense story of the franchise, and we can’t wait for players to experience the journey with Enzo.”

First established in 2002 with the launch of the landmark game Mafia, the franchise has sold-in more than 35 million copies across consoles and PC. Hangar 13 has spent 22 years immersing players in brutal Mafia worlds, and now these franchise veterans are focused on Mafia: The Old Country.

For the latest information on Mafia: The Old Country, wishlist the game, visit mafiagame.com, and follow the game across YouTube, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

Mafia: The Old Country is currently rated RP – Mature by the ESRB.

Hangar 13 is a 2K studio. 2K is a publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO).
Hashtag: #2K

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

About 2K COMMUNICATIONS

Get to know your Asia team and what we do!

Founded in 2005, 2K develops and publishes interactive entertainment for video game consoles, personal computers and mobile devices, with product availability including physical retail and digital download. The Company is home to many talented development studios, including Visual Concepts, Firaxis Games, Hangar 13, Cat Daddy Games, 31st Union, Cloud Chamber and HB Studios. 2K’s portfolio currently includes several AAA, sports and entertainment brands, including global powerhouse NBA®️ 2K; renowned BioShock®️, Borderlands®️, Mafia, Sid Meier’s Civilization®️ and XCOM®️ brands; popular WWE®️ 2K and WWE®️ SuperCard franchises; as well as the critically and commercially acclaimed PGA TOUR®️ 2K. Additional information about 2K and its products may be found at 2K.com and on the Company’s official social media channels.

The Communications Team manages all public relations and influencer marketing for 2K titles. We are a team of talented storytellers, passionate video game players and communications professionals dedicated to raising awareness and driving purchase intent for our slate of fantastic games. We challenge ourselves to create fresh strategies and leverage our deep relationships with consumer media, enthusiast press and influencers to tell compelling brand stories.

Media OutReach

Looking Ahead to “Learning & Teaching Expo 2025”

Published

2 days ago

13/12/2024

Media Outreach

Unveiling Next Year’s Theme – Education: A Shared Future for All

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 December 2024 – The 14^th Learning & Teaching Expo 2024 successfully concludes today. This year’s theme, Shaping Education for a World of Change, marks the largest edition in the event’s history. The Expo united government officials, education experts, industry leaders, exhibitors, and educators from across the globe, featuring over 330 prominent education experts from Mainland China, Singapore, Malaysia, Doha, Australia, the UK, and other regions. More than 290 keynote speeches, seminars, live demonstration lessons, and product showcases took place. With close to 600 exhibition booths, the event showcased the latest global trends in education and innovative teaching resources, offering participants valuable insights and enhancing their teaching and learning expertise.

The Expo focused on the development and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in mainstream education, as well as nurturing multilingual and cross-cultural talent with a global perspective. Key topics included AI applications in learning and teaching, language learning and cross-cultural education, national education, holistic student development, social-emotional learning, physical and mental well-being, inclusive learning, innovative learning, digital literacy, and nurturing future talent, aiming to address the challenges and opportunities currently facing the education sector.

Bringing Educators and EdTech Solution Providers Closer Together

The Learning & Teaching Expo remains a pivotal platform for exhibitors to showcase cutting-edge educational innovations while engaging with a diverse community of educators and industry stakeholders. Exhibitors have praised the event’s distinctive ability to unite schools, companies, and international delegations under one roof, creating opportunities for collaboration and sparking meaningful partnerships. As the Expo continues to grow in scale and refine its organisation, it has proven increasingly effective in helping exhibitors connect with their target audiences and expand their reach within the education sector.

Henry Wong, Senior Sales Manager of the exhibitor BetaOne said: “Learning & Teaching Expo is a premier annual event for the education sector, and our company is enthusiastic about bringing innovative solutions to schools, making it an opportunity we simply cannot miss. This marks our second year participating, and we’ve observed the attendance has grown compared to last year. Along with school teachers, we’ve seen international delegations and guided tours, enabling us to engage with more clients than ever before.”

Ng Ka Shun, Curriculum Development Project Manager of the exhibitor Trumptech said: “We take part in the Learning & Teaching Expo every year. The Expo allows us to connect with multiple schools at once, and companies also visit our booth to explore potential collaboration opportunities, which supports our business expansion. This year’s Expo is bigger in scale compared to previous years and features designated zones, making it more convenient for target customers to locate us.”

The Learning & Teaching Expo has not only garnered praise from exhibitors but has also been highly valued by educators for its ability to bring the education community together. Ms Lee Yi Ying, Principal of Kowloon True Light College said: “I’m thrilled to see such a significant turnout at this year’s Learning & Teaching Expo, along with strong backing from the education community. I’ve encountered many cutting-edge EdTech products and witnessed students showcasing their learning achievements. For teachers, this is certainly an eye-opening experience, allowing them to select the appropriate products and services tailored to their schools’ requirements. I deeply value how the Learning & Teaching Expo unites all sectors of education, and I look forward to it continuing to grow into diverse educational themes and domains in the future, bringing even more benefits to teachers.”

2025 Learning & Teaching Expo to Unveil Innovative Projects and Shape the Future of Education

The 15th Learning & Teaching Expo (2025) will take place from July 2 to 4, 2025, under the theme “Education: A Shared Future for All”. Recognised as Asia’s leading education event, the Expo will continue to serve as a professional platform for stakeholders in the education sector to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and strengthen connections. Innovative initiatives at the event will include an interactive English teaching zone, an immersive future classroom experience, and a collaboration platform for start-up EdTech companies.

EdCity intends to seize this opportunity to further expand the Learning & Teaching Expo’s reach by attracting external resources to support local educational development. The event will encourage more corporations and organisations to collaborate, promoting discussions and partnerships while developing diverse educational projects and programmes. These efforts will empower educators and promote lifelong learning, addressing challenges brought by globalisation, rapid technological advancements, and the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence. These initiatives align with the goals of 21st-century education, such as fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills among students. The Expo will also strengthen international exchanges, support Hong Kong’s alignment with the Mainland and global education development, and establish closer partnerships between the education and industry sectors.

EdCity has also announced a strategic partnership with the Smart City Consortium (SCC) to co-organise the Learning & Teaching Expo, with continued full support from the Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. EdCity hopes that professionals from various fields can collectively explore the future direction of education, innovative teaching methods, and the integration of educational technology, striving to advance educational practices and create better learning environments for all.

Hashtag: #LTE

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

About Hong Kong Education City

Hong Kong Education City (EdCity) provides a one-stop professional education portal (EdCity.hk) offering information, resources, interactive communities, and online services to support educators, parents, and students. It covers five key areas: professional development, teaching, assessment, reading, and learning. EdCity continuously develops and introduces new services since its establishment, and endeavours to promote and provide all-round support to all schools in Hong Kong to adopt eLearning and innovative education.

About Bailey Communications Hong Kong

Bailey Communications HK is a full service professional exhibition and event organiser based in Hong Kong. The focus of Bailey Communications HK is on developing quality events for both buyers and sellers. With a focus on how technology can assist in matching buyers and sellers so that real business objectives are met; Bailey Communications HK build smart events designed for the future.

Media OutReach

Academia Sinica Announces Fully-Funded Ph.D. Opportunities for 2025: Fostering Global Talent in Taiwan

Published

2 days ago

13/12/2024

Media Outreach

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 December 2024 – Join Academia Sinica, Taiwan’s National Academy of Science and leading research institution, for a fully-funded Ph.D. experience that combines cutting-edge educational programs, global research opportunities, and exceptional support. Applications for the 2025 Fall semester of the Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP) are kicking off and open until 1st February 2025 (GMT+8).

Exceptional Support and Global Opportunities

TIGP provides a generous monthly stipend of NTD 40,000 (approximately USD 1,200) for the first year, extendable into the 2nd and 3rd years for high-performing students. Outstanding students can also earn an additional NTD 6,000 per month through the TIGP Research Performance Fellowship. With an extensive global network, TIGP enables students to conduct research in world-renowned laboratories, attend prestigious international conferences, and engage with distinguished scholars and Nobel Laureates.

Life at Academia Sinica

At TIGP, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Taiwan. Free Mandarin courses and affordable dormitories just steps away from campus create a welcoming environment, blending academic excellence with an enriching cultural experience.

13 Interdisciplinary Programs

TIGP offers 13 interdisciplinary Ph.D. programs in cutting-edge fields such as chemical biology, bioinformatics, neuroscience, AI, and sustainability, designed to address global challenges and drive innovation. With a diverse community of over 624 students from 44 countries and 854 accomplished graduates, TIGP has a strong track record of producing leading scientists, researchers, and industry professionals who thrive in top universities and companies worldwide. Explore the full program list on our official website.

Start Your Journey Today

Application is free of charge. Visit the TIGP official website or contact Ms. Huan-Yi Shen ([email protected]) for more information. Start your application today and take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey.

Hashtag: #AcademiaSinica

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

Media OutReach

Mainland China’s Luxury Market Poised for Growth: Insights from MDRi’s 2025 Consumer Forecast

Published

2 days ago

13/12/2024

Media Outreach

Forecast Projected Growth of Chinese Luxury Market in 2025: A Shift Towards Experience, Innovation, Chinese Brands and Sustainability

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 December 2024 – MDRi, a leading provider of business insights, today released its China Luxury Consumer Forecast 2025, presenting an in-depth analysis of luxury consumption trends in Mainland China and Hong Kong. The report highlights a market in transition, where Chinese consumers exhibit sophisticated preferences for experiences, domestic brands, sustainability, and innovation.

Despite the prevailing macroeconomic uncertainty and inconsistent growth across various luxury segments, the overall sentiment for luxury spending remains robust. The report reveals that 56% of Mainland Chinese luxury consumers plan to increase their spending in 2025, compared to only 48% in Hong Kong. This divergence is largely influenced by a more pessimistic outlook on Hong Kong’s economy, shaped by international monetary policies and geopolitical tensions.

Economic uncertainty continues to loom over Hong Kong, where 12% of luxury consumers intend to reduce their spending next year, compared to 9% in Mainland China. This cautious sentiment reflects broader concerns about the region’s economic stability.

In Mainland China, luxury spending is expected to be driven by high-end jewellery, handbags, and travel experiences, with nearly 60% of consumers planning to allocate more of their budgets to luxury travel. In contrast, positive sentiment is less pronounced in Hong Kong, where the luxury market is becoming increasingly polarized. Over 10% of consumers in each luxury category in Hong Kong plan to reduce their spending, showcasing a cautious approach, especially in categories like handbags (9%) and travel experiences (4%).

This report underscores the importance of understanding the evolving preferences of luxury consumers in both regions, as brands navigate a rapidly changing market landscape.

Simon Tye, CEO of MDRi, commented: “Mainland China is currently experiencing a dynamic shift in luxury market. Recent industry data has unveiled contrasting trends, with certain luxury conglomerates witnessing declines in Asia-Pacific revenues, while others have observed growth in parallel instances. This disparity prompts inquiries into the authentic sentiments of Chinese luxury consumers. Luxury brands should obtain deep understanding of the unique preferences, behaviour, and aspirations of consumers in these cities that are conducive to crafting highly targeted and resonant marketing strategies. The strong consumer demand for luxury watches, handbags, jewellery, and travel experiences positions these categories as key growth drivers for the industry. Brands that make consumer insights the foundation of their product development and go-to-market plans will be best positioned to solidify their leadership in these high-potential luxury segments; and agile brands that continuously monitor and respond to changing consumer preferences will be the ones to dominate these in-demand categories.”

The report identifies five key trends shaping the Chinese luxury market in 2025:

1. Luxury Lifestyle & Experiences

Mainland Chinese consumers are increasingly prioritising lifestyle-driven luxury, with 57% planning to boost spending on wellness, fitness, and luxury travel. Gen Z emphasises self-care and wellbeing, while Millennials seek exclusive, adventurous experiences that create lasting memories. Notably, wellness and spa treatments rank among the top items the youngest consumers (aged 21-25) in Mainland China plan to spend more on in the next 12 months (63%, ranking number 2 and just slightly below health and fitness activities (64%)).

2. Shopping Destinations

Mainland China’s Tier 1 cities, led by Shanghai, remain dominant luxury shopping hubs. However, Sanya is emerging as a rising destination, with 23% of Mainland Chinese luxury shoppers making purchases there in 2024, driven by duty-free policies. Hong Kong remains a luxury shopping destination for Tier 3 city shoppers but is losing appeal among Tier 1 consumers, who increasingly find comparable luxury experiences closer to home. Hong Kong’s attractiveness among lower-city luxury consumers could be partly attributed to the Chinese Government’s efforts in fostering Hong Kong’s tourism in these cities.

3. Preferences for Domestic Brands

National pride is driving a growing preference for domestic luxury, with 56% of Mainland Chinese consumers planning to buy more from Chinese luxury brands in 2025. Millennials, in particular, balance global prestige with domestic pride, driving demand for both French and Chinese brands, especially in watches and fashion. The success and influence of Chinese luxury brands have the potential to shape the future direction of the global luxury industry, setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of what luxury means in the years to come.

4. Sustainability and Second-hand Luxury

Sustainability is now a central value for Mainland Chinese consumers, with 85% stating it is important and 42% willing to pay a premium for sustainable luxury products. Younger luxury consumers (aged 21-25) are leading the charge in embracing the allure of second-hand premium products highlighting the rising environmental consciousness. Second-hand luxury is also gaining traction, with 59% of Mainland Chinese luxury consumers purchasing pre-owned items in 2024, particularly small leather goods and shoes. Younger consumers, especially Gen Z, view second-hand luxury as a way to express individual style rather than just a cost-saving option.

5. The Role of Technology and AI in Luxury

Mainland Chinese consumers are embracing tech-driven luxury, with 90% willing to pay a premium for innovative products. AI-powered personalisation is seen as a key enabler for tailored customer experiences, though concerns about its impact on exclusivity remain, with 66% expressing reservations about AI-driven mass customisation.

Driven by evolving consumer sophistication and upper-middle-class expansion, Chinese luxury consumers are increasingly globally mobile, technologically advanced, and discerning. With 42-47% of Chinese luxury consumption projected to occur abroad, Mainland China’s luxury market is setting global trends. Growth will be propelled by domestic brands, sustainability, and the rising influence of younger consumers.

Reflecting on 2024, Mainland China showed stronger growth in the luxury sector, with an average annual spend of RMB234,500, a 7% year-on-year increase. Spending in Tier 2 cities surged by 22%, outpacing Tier 1 cities. In Hong Kong, luxury spending rose modestly, with average expenditures increasing by 3% to HKD223,900. Significant growth was seen in high-value items like jewellery (+64%) and handbags (+66%), highlighting a preference for big-ticket purchases.

The survey was conducted from April to May 2024, with a sample size of 1,500 luxury consumers from Mainland China and 500 luxury consumers from Hong Kong. All respondents were required to have made purchases of luxury items and to have spent a minimum of 50,000 in their local currencies on luxury purchases within the past 12 months.

Simon said: “The Chinese luxury market is undergoing a profound transformation, largely influenced by the preferences of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z. This cohort is not only redefining luxury consumption but is also poised to reshape the global luxury industry. Their demand for personalization, wellness, and sustainability, combined with a strong inclination towards innovative Chinese brands, signals a departure from traditional luxury norms. As they prioritize exceptional experiences and meaningful connections over mere ownership, existing and new brands must adapt to these evolving expectations. By continuing to learn about their needs, building strong relationships with them and investing in personalized services and holistic wellness initiatives, luxury brands can foster loyalty and build lasting relationships with this discerning demographic, ultimately revolutionizing the industry.”

For a deeper dive of the report, please click here.

For further information, interviews, or comments, please contact [email protected].

Appendix
Categories Overview of Chinese consumers (Top 3 brand aware and brand purchased)

Luxury Watch

China		Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand purchased	Brand aware	Brand purchased
Cartier ▲2%	Rolex –	Cartier ▲8%	Rolex ▲1%
Bulgari ▲2%	Omega ▲1%	Rolex ▲7%	Omega ▲1%
Rolex ▲4%	Cartier ▼4%	Omega ▼2%	Longines ▲10%

Luxury Jewellery

China		Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand purchased	Brand aware	Brand purchased
Cartier ▼1%	Cartier ▲1%	Gucci ▲14%	Cartier ▲8%
CHANEL –	CHANEL –	Cartier ▲10%	CHANEL ▲8%
Bulgari ▲3%	Bulgari ▲2%	CHANEL ▲11%	Gucci ▲3%

Luxury Fashion

China		Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand purchased	Brand aware	Brand purchased
CHANEL ▲5%	CHANEL ▲2%	CHANEL ▲11%	CHANEL ▲5%
Balenciaga ▼6%	Balenciaga ▼1%	Balenciaga ▲2%	Balenciaga ▲4%
Dior ▲2%	Dior –	Gucci ▲9%	Gucci ▲5%

Luxury Handbag

China		Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand purchased	Brand aware	Brand purchased
CHANEL –	CHANEL ▼2%	Balenciaga ▲4%	CHANEL ▼1%
Balenciaga ▼1%	Balenciaga ▼1%	CHANEL ▲9%	Balenciaga ▲1%
Dior ▲1%	Dior ▲1%	Hermes ▲12%	Dior ▲6%

Beauty and Cosmetics

China		Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand purchased	Brand aware	Brand purchased
Dior Beauty ▲2%	Estee Lauder ▲7%	Lancôme ▲9%	Shiseido ▲6%
Estee Lauder ▲3%	Lancôme ▲1%	Shiseido ▲5%	SKII ▲1%
Lancôme ▲4%	Dior Beauty ▲5%	SKII ▲9%	Lancôme ▲1%

Wine and Spirits

China	Hong Kong
Brand aware	Brand aware
Chivas ▲2%	Rémy Martin ▲6%
Rémy Martin –	Martell ▲4%
Hennessy ▼1%	Hennessy ▲6%

Consumer preferences of each luxury category

Luxury Category	Mainland Chinese Preferences	Hong Kong Preferences
Watches	– Prefer multifunctional and jewellery watches – 31% prefer Chinese-made watches – Value brand design	– Favor simple, everyday styles – 12% prefer Chinese watches – Consider resale value
	– Prioritize craftsmanship
Jewellery	– Favor yellow gold (55%) and diamonds (52%) – Value easy recognition	– Prioritize diamonds (61%) – Emphasize craftsmanship
	– Resale value influences decisions
Fashion	– Recognize CHANEL and Balenciaga as top brands – Prioritize quality of materials and comfort
Handbags	– Prioritize style and aesthetic appeal	– Emphasize brand awareness and material quality
Cosmetics	– Prefer international brands – 55% purchase through e-commerce platforms	– Favor Japanese brands
	– Prioritize ingredients and efficacy
Wine and Spirits	– Prefer Chinese Baijiu (56%) and high-end whiskey (56%) – Values brand awareness and taste	– Prioritize high-end whiskey (53%) and red wine (45%) – Values taste and cost-effectiveness
	– Increases in high-end whiskey purchases

Hashtag: #MDRi #SimonTye #ChinaLuxuryConsumerForecast #Luxury

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

MDRi

Based in Hong Kong and with operations in London and Singapore, MDRi is a leading provider of business insights, empowering organisations with data-driven advice to make informed decisions and drive growth.

Through advanced analytics, industry expertise, and innovative methodologies, MDRi uncovers strategic opportunities, mitigates risks, and helps businesses stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace. With a commitment to excellence and client-centricity, MDRi is revolutionising the way organisations harness insights for success.

The Mishcon de Reya Group

The Mishcon de Reya Group is an independent, international professional services business with law at its heart, employing over 1450 people with over 650 lawyers. It includes the law firm Mishcon de Reya LLP and a collection of leading consultancy businesses that complement the firm’s legal services.

Mishcon de Reya LLP is based in London, Oxford, Cambridge, Singapore and Hong Kong (through its association with Karas So LLP). The firm services an international community of clients and provides advice in situations where the constraints of geography often do not apply. Its work is cross-border, multi-jurisdictional and complex, spanning seven core practice areas: Corporate; Dispute Resolution; Employment; Impact; Innovation; Private; and Real Estate.

The Mishcon de Reya Group includes consultancy businesses MDR Discover, MDR Mayfair (in London, Singapore and Dubai), MDR ONE, MDRi (in Hong Kong) and MDRx. The Group also includes MDR Lab, which invests in the most promising early stage legaltech companies as well as the Mishcon Academy, its in-house place of learning and platform for thought leadership.

Earlier this year, the Group announced its first strategic acquisition in the alternative legal services market, flexible legal resourcing business Flex Legal. It also acquired a majority stake in Somos, a global group actions management business.