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PAObank Receives Insurance Agency Licence, Announces the Strategic Partnership with China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) and FWD Hong Kong Respectively
Offering Both General and Life Insurance to Meet Customers’ Various Protection Needs
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2025 – PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”) announced that it has been granted an Insurance Agency Licence from the Insurance Authority (“IA”) and has signed strategic partnership agreements with China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) Company Limited (“PAHK”) and FWD Hong Kong (“FWD”) respectively. PAObank is launching both general and life insurance services, offering retail banking customers a seamless bancassurance experience.
PAObank has entered into a bancassurance partnership with PAHK, leveraging on their extensive general insurance expertise as a solid support for this collaboration, to provide a wide array of diverse products, including motor insurance, travel insurance, and home insurance solutions to meet customers’ various protection needs.
Meanwhile, PAObank has further deepened its partnership with insurer, FWD, following the successful launch of Hong Kong’s first bank-insurance “Commercial Data Interchange” (CDI) collaboration, which promotes cross-sector data interchange and leads breakthroughs in the data integration and applications for Hong Kong’s financial sectors. PAObank and FWD are now expanding their collaboration to retail banking, offering life insurance products to customers.
By seamlessly integrating financial technology and Application Programming Interface (API) technology, PAObank connects with insurance companies’ platforms to offer comprehensive online one-stop insurance services. Customers can now easily purchase insurance at their fingertips, enjoying a more convenient, seamless, and secure insurance experience. With just a few simple steps, they can ensure reliable protection for themselves and their families.
Mr. Ambrose Wong, Chief Executive of PAObank, said, “Obtaining the Insurance Agency Licence is a pivotal milestone for the development of our retail banking services. We are delighted to have reached a strategic partnership agreement with PAHK and FWD respectively to further expand our financial services offerings for our individual customers. In addition to time deposits and insurance services, we are accelerating efforts to launch more insurance products. With a focus on serving SMEs and individual customers, we aim to provide a diverse array of financial services, creating greater value for our clients.”
Mr. Kelvin Cheung, Managing Director of PAHK stated, “The online insurance business of PAHK provides customers with 24/7 online instant quotes and insurance application services, significantly improving customer experience and striving to achieve the concept of ‘humanised financial services’. We are very pleased to collaborate with PAObank to offer excellent protection plans and services to our customers.”
Mr. Ken Lau, Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our strategic partnership with PAObank. FWD is actively expanding our multi-channel distribution strategy to serve more customers through our bancassurance partnership network. Through this collaboration, FWD will provide more customers with life insurance products, working hand in hand with PAObank to bring greater benefits to both parties.”
PAObank will continue to innovate and leverage financial technology to provide SMEs and individual customers with comprehensive, convenient, and personalised financial solutions. At the same time, PAObank will continue to establish a sustainable financial ecosystem and facilitate the development of digital banking.
Please refer to the PAObank website at www.paob.com.hk for details. For any enquiries, please contact us through Live Chat in the PAObank APP or call the customer services hotline at 3762 9900.
Hashtag: #PAObank #PAHK #FWD #Bancassurance
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
PAO Bank Limited
PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufax Holding Ltd (“Lufax”) (SEHK: 6623; NYSE: LU) and a member of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd. (“Ping An”) (SEHK: 2318; SSE: 601318), is committed to fostering financial inclusion and establishing a digital banking ecosystem by leveraging its extensive experience in SME banking services and its leading financial technology advantages. PAObank was granted a banking licence by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority in May 2019 to offer banking services via digital channels. PAObank is expanding diverse business segments including retail banking and SME banking.
China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) Company Limited
China Ping An Insurance (Hong Kong) Company Limited boasts a well-established operational framework and a professional management team, continuously advancing diversified insurance businesses to keep pace with market trends and meet the needs of large enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises, and individual customers. The company actively promotes the concept of “humanized financial services”. Since 2010, the company has successfully expanded its online insurance business, bringing new opportunities to the development of general insurance. Customers can now enjoy 24/7 online instant quotation and insurance application services, allowing them to choose the right protection for themselves and their families anytime and anywhere. The online application process requires no document submission, with the entire process taking as little as 5 minutes, fully automated with instant approval and policy issuance. All insurance products feature transparent and clear key terms, and customers can conveniently complete applications and renewals online. The company is committed to providing exceptional service to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
FWD Hong Kong
FWD Hong Kong is part of the FWD Group, a pan-Asian life and health insurance business with more than 12 million customers across 10 markets, including some of the fastest-growing insurance markets in the world. FWD is a top five insurer in Hong Kong*.
FWD Hong Kong has been assigned strong financial ratings by international agencies. It offers life and medical insurance, employee benefits, and financial planning.
The company was established in 2013 and is focused on making the insurance journey simpler, faster and smoother, with innovative propositions and easy-to-understand products, supported by digital technology. Through this customer-led approach, FWD is committed to changing the way people feel about insurance.
For more information about FWD Hong Kong please visit www.fwd.com.hk.
*According to Provisional Statistics on Hong Kong Long Term Insurance Business – January to December in 2023, Insurance Authority of Hong Kong, 《Pi Financial Services Intelligence report》- December 2022 and December 2023, as well as FWD’s own assessment based on its understanding on the statistics and market information, FWD ranks top five in new business case count, net growth of life insurance intermediaries’ headcount, tied agency channel new business FYP, brokerage channel new business FYP, bancassurance channel new business FYP, as well as online and direct platform new business case count.
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New Battery-Operated Bluetooth® Controller Enables Truly Mobile, Plug-and-Play Access
Powerful Performance from Just Four AA Batteries
Powered by only four AA batteries, the controller delivers over two years of operation when driving a 12VDC latch, dramatically reducing maintenance compared to typical battery-powered systems. Its high-efficiency internal buck/boost technology ensures optimal power delivery while using fewer batteries than conventional approaches.
Redundant Power for Critical Access
When batteries eventually require replacement, Southco has designed built-in redundancy to avoid downtime. A power override port—compatible today with a 9V battery and adaptable for future power inputs—provides temporary power so users can unlock the enclosure, replace batteries, and restore full operation quickly.
Smart Monitoring Through the Keypanion® App
Battery health is continuously monitored through Southco’s Keypanion® App, which alerts users well before battery replacement is needed, reducing the likelihood of emergency access situations.
For Original Equipment Manufacturers building their own mobile apps, Southco also offers a Software Development Kit (SDK), enabling seamless integration between the controller and customers’ existing digital ecosystems.
Designed for Real-World Enclosures
A removable battery pod allows fast, frustration-free battery changes—especially valuable in tight, hard-to-reach installations. Users can slide out the cartridge, load all batteries at once, and reinsert it without navigating cramped enclosure spaces.
The controller also features true plug-and-play installation. Simply insert the four AA batteries, plug in the latch, and the system is ready to operate—no wire splicing, no external power, and no additional electronics required.
Mobile Access Without Security Infrastructure
With the Keypanion® App, users can activate, manage, and share access directly from a mobile device. There is no server setup, no IT overhead, and no wiring required. Permissions can be granted or revoked instantly, replacing physical keys with secure digital control.
New Possibilities for Remote and Unpowered Applications
This combination of self-contained power, Bluetooth® connectivity, and mobile access expands what designers can do in environments once considered too challenging for electronic access. Ideal applications include:
- Remote and public installations without external power
- Retrofit upgrades for existing unpowered enclosures
- Critical infrastructure such as fiber optic boxes requiring secure, monitored access
By eliminating the need for solar panels, power drops, or complex security systems, Southco’s Battery-Operated Bluetooth® Controller reduces material costs and gives OEMs far greater design freedom.
A Flexible, Future-Ready Solution
Beyond immediate use cases, the power override port helps engineers address mechanical override considerations by providing a reliable method to restore power and gain entry when traditional power sources fail—a major benefit noted by early customer feedback.
The Battery-Operated Single Output Bluetooth® Controller provides a strong foundation for the next generation of remote access solutions, delivering convenience, efficiency, and security in one streamlined device.
For more information, please visit www.southco.com or email Southco’s 24/7 customer service team at in**@*****co.com.
Hashtag: #Southco
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Southco
Southco, Inc. is the leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered access solutions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we understand that first impressions are lasting impressions in product design. For over 80 years, Southco has helped the world’s most recognized brands create value for their customers with innovative access solutions designed to enhance the touch points of their products in transportation and industrial applications, medical equipment, data centers and more. With unrivalled engineering resources, innovative products and a dedicated global team, Southco delivers the broadest portfolio of premium access solutions available to equipment designers throughout the world.
Southco Asia Limited
2401, Tower 2, Ever Gain Plaza
88 Container Port Road, Kwai Chung
Hong Kong
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OTIC Hearing Unveils New Audiological Milestones In Hong Kong: Launching The Award-Winning Oticon Zeal And The Pediatric Oticon Play SI Platforms
Developed to mimic natural brain sound processing, these platforms represent a major leap forward in treating hearing loss across all ages. Together, the Oticon Zeal and Oticon Play SI lines bring the next evolution of BrainHearing™ technology to Hong Kong. Headlining this release is the custom-molded Oticon Zeal, which recently won the 2026 Red Dot Design Award—one of the world’s most prestigious international seals of design quality and innovation. By introducing these dual systems, OTIC Hearing effortlessly bridges the gap between invisible aesthetics for image-conscious adults and robust learning support for developing children.
Oticon Zeal: Setting a New Standard for Invisible Hearing Technology
For many adults experiencing mild-to-moderate hearing impairment, the social stigma of traditional behind-the-ear devices remains a major deterrent to seeking intervention. Oticon Zeal rewrites this narrative with its NXT In-the-Ear (ITE) style.
Individually sculpted to fit deeply within the user’s ear canal, Oticon Zeal achieves absolute invisibility when viewed from a frontal profile, presenting an ultra-compact faceplate only when observed directly from the side. This is achieved via advanced 3D modeling and laser-sculpting technology, which integrates complex components into an exceptionally small shell without compromising on features.
Overcoming a historic limitation of invisible hearing aids, the frequent changing of tiny disposable batteries; Oticon Zeal introduces an integrated lithium-ion rechargeable power cell. The system delivers up to 20 hours of continuous battery life on a single charge. Every device pairs with a desktop SmartCharger that functions as a mobile power bank. For urgent situations, a fast-charging protocol provides four hours of operational power from a brief 15-minute charge.
Deep Neural Network 2.0 Processing
At the core of Oticon Zeal’s processing is an on-chip, second-generation AI engine. Driven by an updated Deep Neural Network (DNN) 2.0 and a SuddenSound Stabilizer, the processor scans and balances the surrounding soundscape hundreds of times per second.
Standard digital hearing systems often rely on narrow, directional microphones that isolate a single speaker while dampening peripheral noise. This artificial restriction deprives the brain of essential contextual audio, creating cognitive strain and mental fatigue.
In contrast, Oticon Zeal’s AI preserves a natural, 360-degree open soundscape. By suppressing sudden background noises by up to 12 decibels while actively enhancing speech clarity by up to 6 decibels, the platform allows the brain to naturally choose which sound source to focus on, even within high-volume environments like corporate meetings or crowded restaurants.
Oticon Play SI: Purpose-Built Pediatric Care for Growing Minds
Alongside the adult-focused Oticon Zeal, OTIC Hearing is introducing Oticon Play SI to deliver specialized auditory care tailored directly to the unique developmental requirements of growing children. The Oticon Play SI family is optimized to deliver a rich, high-fidelity sound stream essential for language acquisition, academic success, and social confidence.
Children live dynamic lives, moving rapidly from quiet homes to noisy classrooms and playgrounds. Oticon Play SI addresses this volatility by becoming the industry’s first pediatric family to combine a second-generation AI processing core with integrated 4D user-intent sensors.
These sensors track physical head movements, body activity levels, and localized acoustic shifts. The system automatically adjusts its processing parameters in real time, ensuring the child remains clearly connected to teacher instructions, parental guidance, and peer interactions.
To withstand childhood adventures, Oticon Play SI features an IP68-certified robust housing, offering maximum protection against dust, moisture, and debris. This fully sealed architecture safeguards delicate internal circuitry from sweat, rain, and accidental spills. Available in versatile miniRITE R and miniBTE R styles, the lineup offers a broad array of 12 expressive color choices, seven colored ear-hook options, and custom decorative stickers, empowering children to wear their devices with personal pride.
Advanced Digital Connectivity
To seamlessly interface with today’s digital environment, both Oticon Zeal and Oticon Play SI feature state-of-the-art streaming protocols. Utilizing advanced Bluetooth® LE Audio technology, both product families deliver low-energy direct audio streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart televisions, keeping users connected without draining device batteries.
Hashtag: #OTIC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About OTIC Hearing
Established in 2005, OTIC Hearing (Otic Hearing & Speech Centre) is one of the largest, most trusted hearing care clinical groups in Hong Kong. Guided by a corporate philosophy of “People First”, OTIC Hearing manages a comprehensive network of eight specialized service centers strategically distributed across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Clinics are located in Central, Causeway Bay, Jordan, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kwun Tong, Shatin, Tsuen Wan, and Yuen Long.
As the exclusive distributor of Oticon A/S in Hong Kong, OTIC Hearing pairs world-leading technology with an elite team of clinical audiologists and technical hearing specialists. Every facility is fully outfitted with advanced diagnostic and testing instrumentation, allowing the clinical team to deliver precise hearing assessments, custom-fitting protocols, and specialized pediatric auditory rehabilitation. OTIC Hearing maintains a strict commitment to ongoing professional training, ensuring that every client receives a supportive, accurate rehabilitation journey designed to restore lifestyle confidence.
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Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited announces interim results for six months ended June 30, 2026
2026 Interim Results – Financial Highlights
(Figures for the corresponding period in 2025 are shown in brackets)
- Consolidated revenue: HK$593 million (HK$ 636 million)
- Consolidated net loss attributable to equity holders of the Company: HK$189 million (HK$ 249 million)
- Basic loss per share: 9.28 HK cents (12.23 HK cents)
- No interim dividend (No interim dividend)
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD”, SEHK: 00432) announced its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026.
The consolidated revenue of PCPD and its subsidiaries (together, the “Group”) amounted to HK$ 593 million, compared to HK$ 636 million for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Group’s consolidated loss attributable to equity holders of the Company for the first six months of 2026 totalled HK$ 189 million, compared to a net loss of HK$249 million for the corresponding period last year. Basic loss per share for the six months ended June 30, 2026 was 9.28 Hong Kong cents, compared to a loss per share of 12.23 Hong Kong cents for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Board of Directors did not declare an interim dividend for the first half of 2026.
For the first half of 2026, the Group delivered encouraging results as we built on our core strengths and benefited from resilient demand across the markets in which we operate. During the period, we also took steps to enhance our portfolio, including the disposals of two investment assets. These initiatives are expected to strengthen the Group’s financial position and reinforce its long-term growth.
Our operations in Japan performed well despite some moderation in tourism demand, shaped by changes in the composition of international visitors and fluctuations in travel demand. Park Hyatt Niseko, Hanazono, our hospitality business in Niseko, Hokkaido, delivered a stable performance with healthy occupancy and room rates, while our ski operations remained a key contributor to the Group’s results. Earnings from our recreational facilities, ski lifts, equipment rentals, “Hanazono EDGE” (a restaurant and entertainment centre) and Niseko International Snowsports Schoolcontinued togrow year-on-year. We will stay focused on establishing Niseko Hanazono Resort as a world-class, all-season luxury destination and remain optimistic about its long-term development.
On March 16, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Pacific Century Place, Jakarta (“PCP Jakarta”) in Indonesia. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$400 million, was completed on June 8, 2026. Notwithstanding the disposal, the Group will continue to provide property management services in respect of PCP Jakarta.
On February 13, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Midtown Niseko. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$80 million, was completed on May 31, 2026.
The Group formed a strategic alliance with Hotel Properties Limited in Singapore to bring a Four Seasons Resort and Branded Residences to Aquella, a large-scale integrated resort development in Phang Nga. The move represents a significant milestone in PCPD‘s long-term vision of transforming Aquella into an integrated resort destination that effortlessly blends luxury living, recreation and exceptional service.
Central Residence by the Park in Hong Kong was launched for sale in January 2026. As at the end of June, 90.9% of the total available units of the luxury residential project had already been sold. The project will be completed in the latter half of 2026.
Mr. Benjamin Lam, PCPD’s Deputy Chairman and Group Managing Director, said: “The first half of 2026 presented a challenging global environment, characterised by geopolitical tensions including the conflict in the Middle East, inflation, trade uncertainties and concerns over monetary policies. Despite the headwinds, global growth was relatively resilient, while international tourism in many parts of Asia continued to perform steadily. The Group’s core markets in Asia generally remained solid during the period. Tourism demand continued to support Japan and Thailand despite a slightly more measured pace of growth. Improving sentiment in Hong Kong’s property market also provided a more favourable backdrop for our luxury residential development.
In the second half of the year, we will continue to enhance the value of our existing assets while positioning the Group to capitalise on opportunities that support our long-term strategy and create value for our stakeholders.”
Hashtag: #PacificCenturyPremiumDevelopments
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PCPD
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD” or the “Group”, SEHK: 00432) is principally engaged in the development and management of premium-grade property and infrastructure projects as well as premium-grade property investments. PCCW Limited (“PCCW”, SEHK: 00008) is the single largest shareholder of the Group.


