Media OutReach

WRISE Academy Charts New Chapter with Changsha Office Launch

Published

10 months ago

18/09/2025

Deepening Footprint in Mainland China to Empower Next-Gen Successors & Wealth Management Elites

HONG KONG SAR / CHANGSHA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2025 – WRISE Group (“WRISE” or “the Group”), one of Asia’s fastest-growing wealth management firms, announced today the official opening of WRISE Academy Office in Changsha, Hunan province, marking a significant step in its continued expansion in mainland China. This is WRISE Academy’s second location following the successful launch of its Shenzhen office in March this year, which generated substantial industry demand. The new location underscores WRISE’s commitment to provide high-net-worth individuals and wealth management elites in Central China to drive breakthroughs in the wealth management industry.

WRISE Academy Marches into Central China

As a flagship initiative of WRISE Prestige Hong Kong to nurture wealth management talents, WRISE Academy has successfully trained more than 100 undergraduates, graduates, and working professionals since its inception. Through a rigorous selection process, nearly 50% of its trainees have successfully achieved career transitions, evolving from Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) or entry-level professionals into highly competent Independent Wealth Consultants (IWCs), with significant improvements in both compensation and professional ranking.

Since its launch, WRISE Academy has hosted more than 40 seminars and thematic programs in Shenzhen and Hong Kong, attracting over 300 industry elites. The programme line-up brings together over 20 seasoned industry experts with an average of over 20 years of industry experience across core sectors including wealth management, securities, private equity, trusts, and family offices. They continue to provide participants with valuable industry insights, resource connections, and skills enhancement.

Dr. Jowin Fung, Vice Chairman of WRISE Hong Kong, said, “The launch of our Changsha office is a key milestone in our long-term China strategy. As an economic and cultural hub of Central China, Changsha offers rich talent resources and a favourable policy environment, providing an ideal platform for us to better serve mainland entrepreneurs and wealth management professionals.”

Partnering with Globally Recognised Institutions to Develop Benchmark Programmes

WRISE Academy consistently emphasises the professionalism and international recognition of its courses. It has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association (CAIA) to introduce the Fundamentals of Alternative Investments (FAI) programme and a series of micro-certification courses to WRISE Academy, covering topics such as private debt, digital assets, real estate, and private equity. These initiatives are designed to help participants quickly grasp global market trends and practical skills, giving them a competitive edge in career development.

Road Ahead: Deepening Roots in China, Expanding Across Asia-Pacific

With the opening of its Changsha office, WRISE will actively pursue strategic partnerships with local chambers of commerce, enterprise associations, and financial industry organisations to foster joint research and co-innovation, promoting standardisation and professional excellence of the wealth management industry.

Moving forward, WRISE Academy will continue to expand its service network in mainland China. After expanding its presence into the Pearl River Delta and Central China this year, WRISE Academy is now setting its sights on South China, West China, and the Taiwan region. These regional hubs will work in synergy with its Hong Kong office to build a Greater China knowledge and advisory network that empowers both affluent clients and wealth advisers.

Dr. Fung added, “We are committed to establishing WRISE Academy as a talent development platform for the family office industry in Asia, while actively participating in shaping industry standards to elevate the overall quality and competitiveness of wealth management services in the region.”

As a regional core hub, Changsha boasts four key advantages: wealth concentration, industrial financing, institutional channels, and talent supply. However, it lacks a systematic international wealth management framework. By transplanting Hong Kong’s mature standards and extensive practical experience to Changsha, WRISE Academy fills the gap in family office and wealth-talent training while replicating the successful Shenzhen model. The initiative will cultivate a first wave of wealth professionals in central China who combine international perspective with Asian-market expertise.

Hashtag: #WRISE #WRISEACADEMY

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

WRISE

WRISE is one of Asia’s fastest-growing financial firms, driven by strategic acquisitions of companies with deep expertise and solid foundations. With a strong presence across key financial hubs including Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Tokyo, WRISE is home to one of the largest network of independent qualified advisors.

With over 400 employees located globally, supported by an ecosystem of over 200 financial intermediaries and access to eight booking centres worldwide, WRISE ensures unparalleled service and expertise in navigating today’s financial landscape.

WRISE Group of companies include WRISE Wealth Management (Singapore), WRISE Wealth Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Wealth Management Middle East Ltd (DIFC, regulated by the DFSA), WeWrise Services, and affiliated companies WRISE Prestige Securities (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Asset Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Capital (Hong Kong) and WRISE Financial Services (Hong Kong).

Media OutReach

The VinFast VF 8 and the New Priorities of EV Ownership

Published

7 hours ago

03/07/2026

Media Outreach

DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 July 2026 – Today’s EV buyers are looking beyond range and horsepower. They want an ownership experience that is just as reassuring as the vehicle itself, and that is where the VinFast VF 8 makes a strong case.

Just a few years ago, conversations surrounding EV buying were dominated by battery size, driving range and acceleration. Those things still matter today, but they are no longer the whole story. As EVs move into the mainstream, buyer priorities are shifting toward practical, long-term considerations, including the post-purchase experience, charging convenience, straightforward servicing, and the enduring reliability of the brand. These factors increasingly shape purchasing decisions, and they also provide a useful lens through which to look at the VinFast VF 8, an all-electric mid-size SUV.

Designed by the legendary Italian design house Pininfarina, the all-electric D-segment SUV combines clean, modern styling with the practicality expected of a family vehicle. It delivers up to 493 km of NEDC driving range, produces up to 402 horsepower through a dual-motor AWD system, and comes equipped with Level 2 driver assistance technologies, a 15.6-inch infotainment display, and a spacious cabin designed for everyday comfort. In the UAE, buyers also benefit from a 10-year vehicle warranty, a 10-year unlimited-mileage battery warranty, alongside 24/7 roadside assistance and five years of free maintenance up to 100,000 km.

While the VF 8 already has plenty to offer on paper, the real challenge is making ownership feel effortless once the excitement of the purchase has passed. Recognizing that, VinFast has invested heavily in the ecosystem that supports its vehicles.

Earlier this year, the company signed agreements with 29 international aftersales partners as part of a broader plan to expand its global service network to more than 1,100 workshops across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia during 2026. The company is also rolling out customer support initiatives such as software updates, battery inspections, and technical support throughout the ownership journey.

In the UAE specifically, VinFast works with Al Tayer Motors to provide local aftersales support while continuing to strengthen its regional service network through experienced local partners. In March, the company signed an MoU with PlusX Electric, a DEWA-approved charging provider, to extend support beyond the dealership network. The plan includes portable charging pods, on-demand mobile charging, and emergency roadside charging services. The goal is to reduce downtime and eliminate the awkward scenario of running low on charge far from a plug.

“VinFast is committed to building a long-term and comprehensive EV ecosystem in the UAE, one that gives customers confidence not only in the quality and performance of our electric vehicles, but also in the reliability and accessibility of the supporting infrastructure,” one executive of VinFast Middle East said in a press release.

The Middle East is entering an important stage of its EV journey, with governments investing in cleaner mobility and consumers enjoying more choices than ever before. As the market evolves, delivering a competitive vehicle is only part of the equation, while making ownership straightforward is becoming just as important. The VinFast VF 8 reflects that shift, pairing the features of a modern electric SUV with growing investments in charging, aftersales support, and customer service.

Hashtag: #VinFast #EV

https://me.vinfast.com/en

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

Media OutReach

ISCA Accountants Move Beyond the Numbers to Help Singaporeans Navigate Life’s Financial Decisions

Published

9 hours ago

03/07/2026

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 July 2026 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) launched Life & Money Matters, a nationwide community initiative that aims to help Singaporeans make informed financial decisions with confidence throughout every stage of life.

The initiative will be administered by ISCA Cares, ISCA’s charitable arm, which has spent more than a decade supporting the community through bursaries, mentorship and outreach programmes. Building on this strong foundation, Life & Money Matters expands ISCA Cares’ community impact by mobilising the knowledge and expertise of the accountancy profession to help Singaporeans build practical financial capability and long-term resilience. This reflects ISCA Cares’ strategic shift from “giving” to “enabling”, expanding its community impact through the knowledge and expertise of the accountancy profession.

Every major life decision carries a financial dimension, whether it is pursuing further education, entering the workforce, starting a family, purchasing a home, caring for ageing parents or planning for retirement. As financial decisions become increasingly complex, Life & Money Matters seeks to equip Singaporeans with practical knowledge and decision-making skills to navigate these milestones with greater confidence.

The initiative will bring together ISCA members and accounting and finance professionals to volunteer their expertise in communities across Singapore. Through a combination of digital learning resources and community workshops, participants will gain practical guidance on everyday financial topics such as budgeting, managing financial trade-offs, planning ahead, recognising financial scams and building long term financial resilience.

Unlike traditional financial literacy programmes, Life & Money Matters focuses on helping individuals make better financial decisions throughout their life, rather than by promoting financial products or investment strategies. The programme is designed to be practical, impartial and accessible, supporting Singaporeans from different age groups and backgrounds, including students, young adults, families, seniors and vulnerable households.

Mr Lee Boon Teck, President of ISCA, said: “Every life decision has a financial dimension. As trusted finance professionals, accountants have a responsibility not only to support businesses but also to contribute to society. Through Life & Money Matters, we hope to empower Singaporeans with the confidence to make better financial decisions while giving our members a meaningful platform to use their expertise in service of the community. By strengthening financial capability, we can also strengthen households and build more resilient communities.”

Life & Money Matters will be rolled out progressively in the second half of 2026 through partnerships with community organisations, schools, grassroots organisations and other stakeholders.

ISCA recognises distinguished contributions to the profession

At the ISCA Annual Dinner, ISCA also recognised distinguished individuals whose leadership and contributions have made a lasting impact on Singapore’s accountancy profession, business community and public service.

ISCA Honorary Membership, was conferred on Mrs Tan Ching Yee in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Singapore’s accountancy profession, public administration, corporate regulatory ecosystem and national development.

Mrs Tan said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the ISCA Honorary Membership. I am grateful for the recognition. I share this honour with the many colleagues and partners I have had the privilege to work with over the years in support of Singapore’s accountancy profession and broader public interest. I hope to continue contributing to the profession’s development.”

The ISCA Distinguished Lifetime Membership was conferred on Mr Phillip Tan in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the accountancy profession, business community and public service.

Mr Tan said: “I am honoured to receive the Distinguished Lifetime Membership from ISCA. I am humbled by this recognition and I am grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to the profession along with my fellow colleagues and partners over the years. I recognise and commend ISCA’s work in ensuring that professional judgement, ethics and trust remain at the core of professional accountants in Singapore and I hope to continue sharing my expertise with the profession for many more years to come.”

ISCA also presented the Special Appreciation Award to the ISCA Strengthening Small and Medium Practices Taskforce for its leadership in developing a strategic roadmap to strengthen Singapore’s small and medium sized accounting practices through extensive stakeholder engagement and industry collaboration.

Hashtag: #ISCA #CharteredAccountants #AnnualDinner #DifferenceMakers #Accounting #Accountancy

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore. Established in 1963, ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the designated entity by the Singapore Ministry of Finance to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore [CA (Singapore)] designation.

ISCA supports over 45,000 members across industries in Singapore and globally, with members in more than 40 countries. With a growing international presence, ISCA has 12 overseas chapters, 7 offices across 10 countries and a network of over 150 strategic partners, strengthening professional connections and opportunities across borders. ISCA is also a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global network representing more than 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students across over 190 countries.

ISCA advances professional development and lifelong learning through ISCA Academy, its training arm and drives community impact through ISCA Cares, its charity arm.

For more information, visit .

Media OutReach

60,000 Accountancy and Corporate Finance Professionals to Be AI-Ready Over Three Years

Published

9 hours ago

03/07/2026

Media Outreach

ISCA and IMDA launch AIxAccountancy, the first AI fluency programme for non-tech professionals under the National AI Impact Programme

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 July 2026 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) officially launched the AI Fluency Programme, AIxAccountancy, today. The programme will empower accountancy and corporate finance professionals with the skills, confidence and know-how to use artificial intelligence (AI) effectively and responsibly at work. It supports ISCA’s broader commitment to strengthening AI capabilities across the profession, in line with its ambition to upskill 60,000 accountancy and corporate finance professionals [1] over a three-year period.

2. AIxAccountancy is the first training programme developed through IMDA’s partnership with professional bodies under the National AI Impact Programme (NAIIP) [2], which aims to train 100,000 non-tech professionals to become AI bilingual over the next three years. Prior to its launch, more than 20,000 individuals [3] across the public and private sectors, including tertiary students, had already expressed interest in AIxAccountancy, reflecting strong demand to build AI capabilities. The Accountant-General’s Department is also planning to incorporate the programme as part of the learning and development of all 4,000 public sector finance and internal audit officers. To make the programme widely accessible, AIxAccountancy will be offered free to ISCA members who are Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents, including tertiary students.

Flexible AI training programme with industry-recognised credentials

3. AIxAccountancy is designed to offer flexible and structured online learning tailored for working professionals to learn at their own pace, fitting in their busy schedules so that their professional and personal commitments are not disrupted. The programme will be delivered in two progressive phases, enabling learners to develop core AI capabilities before advancing to specialised applications. Learners will gain hands-on experience with widely used AI tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot and Gemini, with the curriculum regularly refreshed to stay industry-relevant.

Phase 1 will focus on AI foundations for common workplace tasks, such as creating AI-enabled workflows for financial statement analysis. Learners will gain essential AI knowledge, hands-on experience with a range of AI tools, and the confidence to use AI effectively in their day-to-day work.
Phase 2 will focus on applying AI to role-specific workflows across accounting, finance, auditing, taxation and related disciplines.

4. Upon completing both phases, ISCA will award participants a Certificate of Completion, a digital badge and Continuing Professional Development Education (CPE) hours. The digital badge serves as a verifiable, tamper-proof record of achievement that recognises AI proficiency, signalling credibility to employers. It can be easily shared across professional platforms including LinkedIn.

5. Accounting professionals in, or aspiring to, management roles can also enrol in modules focused on AI implementation after completing the two phases. These modules are designed to equip them to lead the responsible adoption of AI and drive AI transformation within their organisations.

An AI sandbox to experiment and learn from peers and industry leaders

6. As part of AIxAccountancy, participants will also have access to AI Nexus, a dedicated hub for accountancy and corporate finance professionals to learn and share insights, resources and best practices on AI adoption. Through AI Nexus, participants can experiment, prototype and build their own AI-assisted workflows in a sandbox environment, applying their learning directly to real industry needs. Participants can also connect with peers, technology providers and educators to share and work on new use cases. Regular sharing sessions by leading accountancy companies and AI tool providers will further enrich the learning experience with best practices and real-world applications. Together, these channels ensure participants receive both expert guidance and meaningful peer-to-peer learning throughout the programme. Participants can access AI Nexus at: https://ainexus.isca.org.sg/.

7. Mr Lee Boon Teck, President of ISCA, said: “AI is reshaping the future of the accountancy profession. The professionals who will thrive are those who become AI bilingual, combining deep accounting expertise with the ability to use AI confidently, responsibly, and with sound professional judgement. AIxAccountancy is more than a training programme. It is a national profession transformation initiative that equips accountants and finance professionals with the skills and confidence to create greater value for businesses and society.”

8. Mr Ng Cher Pong, Chief Executive of IMDA, said: “AI delivers the most impact when it is grounded in domain expertise and applied to the work professionals know best. Our partnership with ISCA on AIxAccountancy reflects this approach by equipping accounting and corporate finance professionals not just with AI skills, but also with the ability to apply them meaningfully and responsibly in their day-to-day work. We look forward to seeing more professionals harness AI with confidence and purpose, becoming not only fluent, but truly AI bilingual in their field.”

9. Mrs Chia-Tern Huey Min, Chief Executive Officer of Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, said: “ISCA’s AI Fluency Programme, AIxAccountancy, comes at an opportune time, as AI continues to reshape industries and redefine the way we work. It complements the refreshed Skills Framework for Accountancy, which embeds AI fluency across all 44 job roles – spanning data analytics, visualisation and strategic decision-making. Through this programme, accounting and finance professionals will gain the practical AI skills they need to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.”

10. The launch of the AIxAccountancy underscores ISCA and IMDA’s commitment to help the accountancy profession navigate the AI era. By equipping professionals with accessible learning, practical AI experimentation and community collaboration, ISCA aims to accelerate AI adoption across the profession while ensuring professional judgement, ethics and trust remain at the core of professional accountants in an increasingly AI-driven business environment.

[1] The AI Fluency Programme ambitions announced by ISCA on 12 November 2025: https://isca.org.sg/content-item?id=372ef303-e135-4a4a-94e0-e1e157b9aed4.

[2] NAIIP announcement at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information’s (MDDI) Committee of Supply (COS) 2026: https://www.imda.gov.sg/resources/press-releases-factsheets-and-speeches/national-ai-impact-programme.

[3] These include professionals from accounting and professional services firms, corporates, individuals who registered their interest through the AIxAccountancy sign-up form, and other industry professionals, as well as tertiary students.

Hashtag: #ISCA #CharteredAccountants #AIxAccountancy #AIFluency #AIBilingualism #DifferenceMakers #Accounting #Accountancy

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

ISCA advances professional development and lifelong learning through ISCA Academy, its training arm and drives community impact through ISCA Cares, its charity arm.

For more information, visit .

Infocomm Media Development Authority

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) leads Singapore’s digital transformation by developing a vibrant digital economy and an inclusive digital society. As Architects of Singapore’s Digital Future, we foster growth in Infocomm Technology and Media sectors in concert with progressive regulations, harnessing frontier technologies, and developing local talent and digital infrastructure ecosystems to establish Singapore as a digital metropolis.

For more news and information, visit or follow IMDA on LinkedIn (IMDAsg), Facebook (IMDAsg) and Instagram (@imdasg).