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VT Markets Finds AI Poised for a Second Wave of Growth in Latest 2025 Q1 Economic Outlook

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Since the global AI boom sparked by ChatGPT in December 2022, the artificial intelligence industry has consistently attracted market attention, with investment enthusiasm only increasing over the past two years.

For most, however, the future of AI remains opaque. Despite its prominence, questions persist about the technology’s evolution and its impact on markets and investors. To address these uncertainties, VT Markets‘ latest 2025 Q1 Economic Outlook report provides an in-depth analysis of AI market valuations, technological maturity, and investor sentiment, along with forward-looking insights into its development.

Tech Stocks Lead the Way as U.S. Markets Maintain Strong Performance

In 2024, the U.S. stock market delivered what many would call a stunning performance. Driven by the tech sector, all three major indices reached historic highs. As of December 25, the Nasdaq Composite gained 35.66% year-to-date, slightly lower than last year’s 43.4% increase but still highlighting the robust growth of tech stocks. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 27.35% and 14.8%, respectively.

The AI-driven tech sector further cemented its dominance in the market. ChatGPT’s success underscored the explosive growth potential of AI technologies. This has come despite calls for concern – such claims, which typically cite potential valuation bubbles and skepticism about sustainability, remain significant.

Three Key Concerns Fueling the AI Bubble Debate

With the markets’ growing optimism surrounding AI, concerns about the existence of a valuation bubble are growing. VT Markets has identified three critical risks contributing to the current market unease:

Overvaluation Risks:

Skyrocketing stock prices mask underlying vulnerabilities. For instance, Nvidia’s stock soared from $15 at the start of 2023 to $140, a ninefold increase, propelling its market cap beyond $3 trillion, second only to Apple. Similarly, AI-related companies’ valuations often exceed their actual earnings potential. Using the “Buffett Indicator,” current U.S. market valuations are nearing levels seen before the dot-com bubble of 2000.

Commercialisation Challenges:

While AI technologies have made significant strides, the path from experimentation to real-world application remains arduous. Training large AI models requires substantial investment in computing power, energy, and infrastructure, placing immense financial pressure on companies.

Market Sentiment and FOMO:

The fear of missing out (FOMO) has driven a flood of capital into the AI sector, creating a competitive frenzy that heightens bubble risks. Investor enthusiasm, unchecked by caution, may inflate valuations further.

The Catalyst for AI’s Second Wave of Growth

The progression of technological revolutions often hinges on hardware development. Historically, Nvidia’s A100 and H100 GPUs have been integral in supporting generative AI technologies like ChatGPT. However, the next phase of AI growth will depend on breakthroughs in software innovation and application layers.

While generative AI faces technical bottlenecks, rational investment from major tech players have provided some level of market reassurance. Unlike the dot-com bubble of 2000, today’s AI investments emphasise on long-term value, a strategy which is more likely to reduce the likelihood of widespread panic even though there may be short-term profitability challenges.

The Long-Term Promise of AI

The VT Markets research desk highlights that while the AI industry must navigate bubbles and overheated investments in the short term, its long-term potential remains undeniable. With continuous advances in hardware demand and software innovation, AI is poised to transform global industrial ecosystems further.

Through a combination of technological breakthroughs and measured investment strategies, the AI sector is expected to sustain its momentum and reshape industries worldwide.
Hashtag: #VTMarkets #CFDs #CFDsbrokers #nvidia #NASDAQ



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

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J.Lashes Celebrates 11 Years of Growth, Innovation, and Commitment to Lash Health

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 J.Lashes, an established name in eyelash care, will celebrate its 11th anniversary on 9 January 2025. Founded in 2013 as a home-based studio, the company has grown into a key player in the eyelash extension industry, with a focus on maintaining lash health while offering innovative eyelash extensions in Singapore.

J.Lashes Outlet in Triple One Somerset

A Journey of Growth and Innovation

J.Lashes was founded with the goal of providing high-quality eyelash care while ensuring the health of natural lashes. Starting out in a small studio, the company built a loyal client base due to its personalised approach and high standards of service. Over the years, J.Lashes expanded its expertise, travelling internationally to Taiwan, South Korea, the UK, and the US to learn advanced lash extension techniques.

By 2017, the brand had outgrown its home-based roots and opened its first retail location at The Cathay. This expansion continued with additional locations, including Tanjong Pagar and Wheelock Place. In 2023, J.Lashes consolidated its operations into its flagship store at 111 Somerset, a move aimed at providing customers with an enhanced and more comfortable experience.

Commitment to Lash Health and Care Services

From its early days, J.Lashes has focused on the health of natural lashes, ensuring that every extension applied preserves lash integrity. This emphasis on comfort, durability, and aesthetic quality has contributed to the company’s reputation for offering safe, long-lasting lash enhancements. Over the years, J.Lashes has also built strong relationships with its consumer base, reflecting a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Jenny Liu, Founder of J.Lashes, commented: “Reaching our 11th anniversary is a significant milestone for us. We are grateful for the continued support of our customers and the hard work of our team. This journey has been one of innovation, and we look forward to continuing to improve the lash care experience for all who visit us.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout its development, J.Lashes has achieved notable milestones, including the creation of the TUTU Lash technique and recognition at international lash competitions, such as the 2017 Spanish Lash Art Championship and the 2019 U.S. Miami Lash Competition. These accomplishments reflect the company’s position as a leader in eyelash extensions in Singapore.

In 2024, J.Lashes expanded its product offerings with lash-friendly products such as makeup remover pads and cleansing mousse. These additions support the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive approach to lash care, helping customers maintain the health of their lashes beyond eyelash salon visits.

Looking to the Future

As J.Lashes celebrates this milestone, the company remains focused on innovation. Plans include introducing new techniques and eyelash extensions in Singapore to meet the evolving needs of its diverse consumer base.

In celebration of its 11th anniversary, J.Lashes is offering a 20% discount for first-time customers to experience its exceptional services, including the new lightweight lash extensions—Fluffy Blossom Lashes. This limited-time offer invites individuals to explore the brand’s extensive range of premium eyelash extensions and experience first-hand the care and expertise that have made J.Lashes a beloved name in Singapore.
Hashtag: #J.Lashes



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

About J.Lashes

Founded in 2013, J.Lashes is a leading eyelash care studio known for its commitment to the health and enhancement of natural lashes. The brand offers a range of services, with a focus on customer care, comfort, and long-lasting lash health. J.Lashes is headquartered at . As we continue to expand our range of eyelash extensions in Singapore, our core mission remains the same: to provide high-quality, customised eyelash services that celebrate beauty while caring for your natural lashes.

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Maybank’s Insurance Arm, Etiqa Insurance, Pioneers the Return of Takaful Offerings in Singapore

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New Shariah-compliant investment-linked product addresses the needs of customers looking for values-based insurance solutions; further strengthening the Group’s Islamic Wealth Management offerings

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Maybank’s insurance arm, Etiqa Insurance Singapore (Etiqa), today jointly announced the launch of Invest future, Singapore’s first Takaful offering in over a decade, with Maybank Singapore (Maybank) as its exclusive distributor.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore launches Invest future solution

Invest future is designed to cater to the growing demand for Islamic financial solutions in Singapore. This investment-linked plan (ILP) is designed to support sustainable wealth accumulation goals through Shariah-compliant investing, tailored for the growing demographic seeking ethical investment options while offering flexibility and protection.

Mr Alvin Lee, Maybank Singapore Country CEO said, “Values-based financial solutions such as Etiqa’s Takaful ILP, is an integral component of Islamic Wealth Management (IWM) offerings based on Shariah principles. Maybank, as the regional offshore IWM hub for Maybank Group in Singapore, is the first Bank here to provide end-to-end values-based financial solutions. And as the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Takaful offering – a first in Singapore, we are very pleased to mark another milestone in scaling our capabilities with a comprehensive suite of solutions aligned to the five IWM pillars for customers through their different life stages. This is our ongoing commitment to meet evolving customers’ needs while upholding their values and ethical considerations.”

“We are excited to lead the way in launching Takaful ILP as our inaugural Takaful product in Singapore, recognising that ethical investing is increasingly gaining traction among Singaporeans,” said Raymond Ong, CEO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore. “”Our Takaful ILP promotes Shariah values of mutual cooperation and purposeful investing. By introducing values-based insurance that targets all sectors of the community, we aim to provide ethically crafted, holistic life journey solutions that all customers can trust. We believe that by aligning our products with strong ethical principles, we can create lasting value for our customers and contribute positively to society.”

By extending its insurance solutions with this new product offering, Etiqa Insurance Singapore hopes to offer financial solutions that adhere to the principles of cooperation, fairness, and shared responsibility.

Committing to customers as a priority with values-based insurance

Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s launch of the new values-based insurance is part of the company’s ethos to make insurance accessible, keeping customers’ interests and needs as the core foundation of its product and service offerings.

Unlike traditional insurance plans, which focus solely on financial protection, values-based insurance encompasses a broader perspective of protection that covers the ethical, social and personal concerns of customers. This emerging product offering resonates with the diverse needs and aspirations of policyholders while managing risks, enabling individuals to connect more deeply with their values.

The benefits of values-based insurance include:

  • Risk Sharing: Policyholders of a values-based insurance product share the financial risks collectively, leading to a sense of community and shared responsibility among policyholders.
  • Purposeful: Values-based insurance plans are aimed at sustaining protection for a group of individuals, rather than maximising profit.
  • Transparency: Values-based insurance products offer a more transparent approach in terms of what the policy is invested in, how the funds are paid out, and underwriting profits, if any through stringent reviews by the Shariah advisors to ensure fairness to customers.

Maybank Singapore is the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Invest future solution in Singapore.

Note to Editors

About the five IWM pillars:

  • Wealth Creation: Creates wealth through Shariah-compliant banking, savings and financial products in line with Islamic principles. It seeks to achieve sustainable and ethical growth over time.
  • Wealth Accumulation: Generates and accumulates wealth through Shariah-compliant investment products, and is focused on values-based investing principles.
  • Wealth Preservation: Protects the accumulated wealth as aligned with Islamic principles through risk management and Takaful (Islamic insurance).
  • Wealth Purification: Purifies wealth through the concept of zakat. Zakat is the giving of alms to the less fortunate, and it is obligatory upon every Muslim who meets the requirements to pay zakat.
  • Wealth Distribution: Distributes wealth for future generations, which involves the transfer of wealth or assets through will writing (wasiat), endowment (wakaf) and gift (hibah).


Takaful

Takaful is based on Shariah or Islamic religious law where protection is offered on the Islamic concept of mutual help. Although Takaful must operate according to Islamic cooperative principles, it is not limited to the Muslim community, as anyone who upholds personal ethical and social principles can purchase a Takaful plan for protection needs and objectives.

Invest future
Invest future is Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s first Takaful values-based ILP, designed for those seeking ethical investing aligned with Shariah principles. It is a values-based insurance product designed to combine wealth accumulation with life protection, offering flexible investment options, access to Shariah-compliant funds, and enhanced returns through multiple bonuses. Invest future is certified Shariah compliant by the Financial Shariah Advisory and Consultancy (FSAC) of Singapore Islamic Scholars & Religious Teachers Association (Pergas).

Key benefits of Invest future include:

  • Investment bonuses, including start-up bonus up to 80% of first-year premiums, special bonus at 5% of regular premiums from the 6th policy year, and loyalty bonus at 0.2% of account value annually post premium payment term.
  • Access to Shariah-compliant funds with investments from as low as S$200 per month with access to reputable, Shariah-compliant regional and global funds.
  • Flexible plan options allow for two free partial withdrawals from the 4th policy year, plus options for premium adjustments, top-ups, premium-free periods, and free fund switching.
  • Comprehensive coverage includes death and total permanent disability benefits up to 105% of net premiums or account value.
  • Legacy and giving options enable policyholders to pledge benefits as a legacy gift to loved ones or *wakaf to charitable organisations (*wakaf is a voluntary charitable endowment from one’s personal belongings or wealth in the form of cash or property for pious and religious causes).
  • Guaranteed issuance policy, no health checks needed.
  • Option to add on rider for additional coverage subject to underwriting.

To learn more about Invest future, please visit: www.etiqa.com.sg/personal/investments/invest-future

Hashtag: #EtiqaSingapore

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

Maybank Singapore

Maybank is the fourth largest financial institution group in ASEAN by assets. It has been ranked the Best Bank in Asia Pacific and Singapore by The Banker in 2023; and the number one domestic bank in Malaysia for trade finance, according to the Euromoney Trade Finance survey in 2024.

Maybank Singapore is one of the Group’s largest overseas operations and a Qualifying Full Bank in Singapore. As at 31 December 2023, Maybank’s total assets in Singapore were approximately S$80.26 billion. With strategically located banking branches and over 2,000 employees in Singapore, Maybank is well-positioned to provide highly personalised services and locally-oriented solutions that will deliver more value to customers.

Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Etiqa Insurance Singapore)

Protecting customers since 1961, Etiqa Insurance Singapore is a licensed life and general insurance company regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and governed by the Insurance Act 1966. The local insurer is the Singapore operating entity of Etiqa Insurance Group – a leading insurance and Takaful business in ASEAN offering life and general insurance and family and general Takaful products through its agents, branches, offices and bancassurance network in the region. Etiqa Insurance Singapore is rated ‘A’ by credit rating agency Fitch for the group’s ‘Favorable’ business profile and ‘Very Strong’ capitalisation.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore is owned by Maybank Ageas Holdings Berhad, a joint venture company that combines local market knowledge with international insurance expertise. The company is 69% owned by Maybank, the fourth largest banking group in Southeast Asia, and 31% by Ageas, an international insurance group with footprints across 16 countries and a heritage that spans over 190 years.

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HKVAX and Victory Securities Form Strategic Partnership to Advance Virtual Asset Services in Hong Kong

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Hong Kong Virtual Asset Exchange (HKVAX), a virtual asset trading platform licensed by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), and Victory Securities (8540.HK), a licensed financial services provider, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem.

This collaboration aims to explore opportunities in virtual asset brokerage and distribution, combining HKVAX’s robust infrastructure and virtual asset capabilities with Victory Securities’ comprehensive financial services platform and established institutional relationships. Together, the two parties will explore opportunities in RWA and tokenization and build a robust ecosystem with the primary goal of increasing opportunities for virtual asset distribution. It will also provide investors with access to high quality, efficiently managed tokenization assets.

“This strategic partnership with Victory Securities represents a significant step forward in our mission to advance Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem,” said Dr. Anthony Ng, Co-Founder and CEO of HKVAX. “By combining our technological expertise with Victory Securities’ deep understanding of traditional financial markets and strong institutional relationships, we are well-positioned to deliver innovative, compliant virtual asset services that meet the sophisticated needs of today’s investors.”

“Our collaboration with Victory Securities comes at a pivotal time in Hong Kong’s development as a virtual asset hub,” said Sam Fok, Co-Founder and COO of HKVAX. “We will work to bridge the gap between traditional finance and virtual assets, creating a more integrated and accessible financial ecosystem for our clients while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.”

Victory Securities, with over five decades of market presence, brings extensive expertise in regulated financial activities and a deep understanding of institutional client needs. This collaboration with HKVAX demonstrates both companies’ commitment to fostering innovation within Hong Kong’s regulated virtual asset space.

‘Victory Securities is committed to becoming a diversified virtual asset trading platform. This partnership is expected to provide the joint licensed exchanges with unique virtual asset investment opportunities in the market, further drive market development and maintain competitiveness in the global virtual asset market.’ said Kennix Chan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Victory Securities.

The partnership represents a significant step in Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem, combining established financial expertise with virtual asset capabilities. Both companies look forward to collaborating on innovative solutions that will benefit investors and contribute to the sustainable growth of Hong Kong’s virtual asset market.
Hashtag: #HKVAX

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

About HKVAX

Hong Kong Virtual Asset Exchange (HKVAX) is a virtual asset trading platform licensed by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission under Type 1 (Dealing in securities) and Type 7 (Providing automated trading services), along with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO) licence. HKVAX aims to be a key global player in virtual finance, headquartered in Hong Kong.

Beyond OTC trading, exchange, and custody services, HKVAX focuses on Security Token Offerings (STO) and Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization. It combines traditional finance with blockchain technology to serve institutional and professional investors.

HKVAX prioritizes security and compliance. It actively cooperates with regulators to promote industry standards and forms strategic alliances with brokers, Money Service Operators (MSOs), Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) issuers, and other platforms to build a compliant virtual asset ecosystem. Through these efforts, HKVAX drives Hong Kong’s financial innovation and advances the global virtual asset market.

For further information, please visit:

About Victory Securities

Victory Securities (stock code: 8540.HK), with over 50 years of history, is a comprehensive full- licensed securities firm licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission, with regulated activities under Type 1, Type 2, Type 4, Type 6, and Type 9. Investors can enjoy Victory Securities’ comprehensive financial services, including Hong Kong and global securities trading, first and second market securities financing, corporate financing (capital markets and bond capital markets), wealth management in various fields. In 2023, Victory Securities became the first and currently only licensed entity in Hong Kong to hold virtual asset trading, advisory, and asset management service licenses issued by the Securities and Futures Commission.

For further information, please visit:

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