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WRISE Group Establishes Strategic Alliance with The Continental Group to Democratise Access to Private Banking in the UAE

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Strategic alliance between two financial services leaders expands access to private banking across a broader investor base in the UAE

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2026 – WRISE Group, one of the fastest-growing independent wealth management firms, today announced a strategic alliance with The Continental Group, one of the Middle East’s largest and most established insurance intermediary and financial services groups. The partnership marks a significant milestone in WRISE Group’s expansion strategy across the United Arab Emirates and the broader Middle East.

The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of the world’s most important global wealth hubs, driven by sustained economic growth, strong capital inflows, family office migration, favourable regulation, and a growing population of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. The region is also witnessing rising demand from entrepreneurs, professionals, and internationally connected families for transparent, cross-border, and technology-enabled wealth solutions — traditionally available only to private banking clients.

The strategic alliance between WRISE Group and The Continental Group democratises access to holistic, institutional-grade wealth solutions for a wider, globally mobile mass-affluent and high-net-worth client base in the Middle East.

By combining WRISE Group’s proprietary digital wealth infrastructure, global product capabilities, and institutional investment access with The Continental Group’s market-leading insurance and risk advisory expertise, strong onshore distribution network of over 250 professionals, and operations spanning the Middle East, Europe and Asia, the alliance delivers a differentiated and scalable wealth proposition for clients through an integrated suite of solutions across protection, savings, investment-linked products, structured investments, digital assets and holistic wealth planning.

It represents a shared vision for the future of wealth management, combining Continental’s deep-rooted regional presence and trusted client relationships with WRISE’s global, technology-enabled multi-family office platform.

“The Middle East, and the UAE in particular, is emerging as a pivotal hub for global wealth flows,” said Derrick Tan, Group Executive Chairman of WRISE Group. “This alliance reinforces WRISE’s role as a bridge between Asian capital, Middle Eastern wealth and global opportunities, and reflects our belief that the future of private banking lies in serving historically underserved clients through transparent, highly personalised and integrated wealth solutions that protect and grow wealth across generations.”

“This partnership represents a shared commitment to raising the standard of financial advice and wealth solutions in the region,” said Akshay Sardana, Group CEO of The Continental Group. “By combining Continental’s deep regional presence and client relationships with WRISE’s global, technology-enabled platform, we are well positioned to deliver transparent, personalised, and future-ready wealth solutions to a wider range of clients at every stage of their financial journey.”

This strategic alliance is part of WRISE Group’s broader strategy to scale its wealth management, insurance brokerage and investment distribution capabilities in the UAE in a structured, compliant and capital-efficient manner. It underscores the company’s disciplined approach to expand in high-growth markets through carefully curated strategic partnerships that deliver long-term, sustainable value for clients, partners and stakeholders.
Hashtag: #WRISE #昇世集團

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

About 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, Changsha and Tokyo, WRISE is home to one of the largest networks 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), WRISE Prestige (Hong Kong) Limited, WRISE Prestige Securities (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Asset Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Capital (Hong Kong), WRISE Financial Services (Hong Kong) and affiliates including WeWrise Services.

About The Continental Group

Founded in 1994, The Continental Group is a leading insurance intermediary and financial services solutions provider in the GCC, licensed and regulated by the UAE Central Bank (CBUAE), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).[i] Built on the pillars of integrity, insight, and innovation, the group has established itself as a trusted household name for financial and insurance solutions across investments, savings, wealth creation, protection, and legacy planning.


[i] Continental is a business name used by a number of Continental Group companies (“Continental“).

Continental Insurance Brokers LLC (Registration Number: 088) is regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE and licensed to conduct insurance brokerage activities. The registered head office is located at Office No. 505, Level 5, Bay Square 11, Dubai, UAE and the branch office is located at Office 1104, 11th Floor, Hamdan Street, (Hamdan & Salam Corner- Abdullah Darwish Building), Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Continental Financial Services LLC (Registration Numbers: 608026) is regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), UAE and is regulated to conduct business activities of ‘Financial Analysis, Financial Consultation’ and ‘Product Promotion’. The registered head office is located at No. 503, Level 5, Bay Square 11. Dubai, UAE.

CFS (DIFC) Limited (Registration Number: CL5696) is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and licensed to conduct the regulated financial services activities of ‘Advising on Financial Products’ and ‘Arranging Deals in Investments’. CFS is incorporated in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). The registered office is located at Unit 1102B, Level 11, Burj Daman, Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates.

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Siam Piwat appoints The Bureau of Wonders as international public relations consultant for Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2026

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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – Siam Piwat Group, a leading real estate and retail developer, and operator of world-class destinations including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, ICONSIAM and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, has appointed The Bureau of Wonders (BOW) as its international public relations consultant to support global communications for Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2026.

Thailand’s Siam Piwat Group has appointed The Bureau of Wonders (BOW) as international PR consultant for Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2026, taking place from 22–27 September 2026, and reinforcing Bangkok’s position as Southeast Asia’s emerging hub for watch culture and haute horology.

The Bureau of Wonders (BOW), a leading strategic communications and luxury brand consultancy, will collaborate with Siam Piwat to lead international market communications, elevate global awareness, and strengthen Siam Piwat’s position as a leading luxury destination developer.

Returning for its second edition, Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2026 will take place from 22–27 September 2026, reinforcing Bangkok’s position as Southeast Asia’s emerging capital of watch culture and haute horology. The event will bring together renowned watchmaking maisons, collectors, and connoisseurs from around the world to celebrate craftsmanship, innovation, and the heritage of fine timepieces.

Through this partnership, Siam Piwat aims to enhance international media engagement and further establish Thailand as a global destination for luxury, tourism, and retail experiences.

Hashtag: #SiamPiwat #BangkokWatchWeek2026 #TheBureauOfWonders #SiamParagon #SiamParagonBangkokWatchWeek2026 #LuxuryWatchDestination




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

Siam Piwat

Siam Piwat is a leading retail and real estate developer behind Bangkok’s most iconic destinations, including Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, ICONSIAM, and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, globally recognized for pioneering experiential destinations.

For over six decades, Siam Piwat has been renowned for creating iconic destinations and world-class experiences, continuously redefining Bangkok’s retail landscape through award-winning developments that set new global benchmarks. Guided by creativity, innovation, and sustainability, the company continues to lead with a bold vision that inspire, engage, and delight customers from around the world, while creating long-term value for society, businesses, and future generations.

The Bureau of Wonders

The Bureau of Wonders is an innovative communications agency renowned for its expertise in public relations, events, content creation, and brand strategy. With a focus on luxury, fashion, retail, beauty, lifestyle, hospitality, F&B, and the arts, we craft compelling narratives that resonate with an exclusive clientele across Southeast Asia’s vibrant markets.

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Construction Management Awards 2026 – Now open for nomination Introduction of the Inaugural “Excellent Construction Safety Culture Award” Guides the Construction Industry Toward a New Milestone in Safety

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – Organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers (HKICM / the Institute), the biennial flagship event of the construction industry—the 6th Construction Management Awards (the Awards)—is now open for nominations. Since its debut in 2016, the Awards have received enthusiastic support from the industry, successfully gathering outstanding construction professionals. By recognizing the cornerstone professionals of the construction sector—such as construction managers, site managers, and engineers—the Awards acknowledge their practices and exceptional contributions in their professional fields, actively driving the professional development of the industry while nurturing and attracting younger generations of talent.

Deepening “Corporate Leadership, On-Site Implementation” to Reflect Excellent Governance Standards

Entering its sixth edition, the Awards continue to uphold their mission of creating a credible exchange platform for industry elites. In recent years, with society’s high emphasis on occupational safety and health, along with the widespread application of smart construction technologies, site safety has gone far beyond the traditional, rigid mindset of “checking in and re-inspecting”. The Institute thoroughly understands that excellent site safety performance does not rely solely on the routine compliance execution of frontline sites; it must stem from the forward-looking vision and comprehensive policy drive of corporate management.

To this end, this year’s Awards have comprehensively enhanced the judging criteria. Building upon the existing award categories, the judging perspective has been extended from frontline construction management to the macro corporate level, significantly increasing the weight of the “Safety” element in scoring to elevate industry standards. This edition will more comprehensively and deeply review the effectiveness of corporations in formulating and implementing safety management policies. In addition to frontline execution capabilities, the judging panel will place greater emphasis on how corporations promote an excellent construction safety culture from a policy level, including integrating tech solutions like Smart Site Safety Systems (SSSS) into long-term development strategies to safeguard site safety. Furthermore, special emphasis is placed this year on how corporations establish long-term accident prevention and continuous improvement mechanisms through institutional frameworks, embedding safety concepts into the core of corporate governance to lead a comprehensive transformation of the safety culture in Hong Kong’s construction industry.

Inaugural “Excellent Construction Safety Culture Award” with a Dedicated Judging Panel Establishes Industry Authority

Cr Alfred TANG, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers, stated: “Site safety has always been the core focus most valued by the Government and the Institute. The Institute firmly believes that ‘Corporate Leadership, Safety Implementation, Everyone’s Responsibility’ is the key to driving industry transformation. To encourage more developers, main contractors, and stakeholders to actively play a top-down driving role, this year’s Awards have introduced the ‘Excellent Construction Safety Culture Award’, supported by an independent ‘Dedicated Safety Judging Panel’ composed of top senior safety experts and consultants in the industry to review the long-term effectiveness of corporate safety policies from the most rigorous and professional perspective. We firmly believe that this brand-new award and dedicated judging mechanism will effectively drive continuous progress in Hong Kong’s construction industry, laying a solid foundation for building a sustainable, safe, and highly efficient future.”

The “Construction Management Awards 2026” is opening for nominations from today until 31 August 2026. For details about the Awards, nomination forms, and judging criteria, please visit the Awards website (www.hkicm-cma.com).

Award Categories Overview

Award Categories Team / Corporate Awards Corresponding Individual Award Categories
Building Project Excellent Construction Team Award (Building Project) A) Construction Manager Award
B) Site Manager Award
C) Engineer Award
D) EHS Officer Award
E) Construction Supervisor Award
Civil Project Excellent Construction Team Award (Civil Project) A) Construction Manager Award
B) Site Manager Award
C) Technical Manager Award
D) Engineer Award
E) EHS Officer Award
F) Construction Supervisor Award
Corporate Project A) Excellent Construction Safety Culture Award
B) Excellent Construction Innovation Enterprise
/
Individual Project / Young Construction Manager Award

Jury Panel

Chairman of the Judging Panel (Building Project):
Mr HO Chun Hung, JP, Director of Buildings, Buildings Department, HKSARG

Members of the Judging Panel (In apathetical order of surnames):

  • Ir CHAN Siu Chung, Cedric, Chairman of Building Division, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers
  • Prof CHAN, Isabelle Y. S., Associate Dean of the Faculty of Architecture; Associate Professor at the Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong
  • Mr LEE Hok-yin, Arthur, JP, Deputy Director/Regulatory Services, Electrical & Mechanical Services Department, HKSARG
  • Cr TANG Yu-chi, Alfred, President, The Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers
  • Sr WAN Wai Ming, Tony, President, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
  • Ir Prof Michael C. H. YAM, Head of Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  • Mr Emil YU Chen-on, President, The Hong Kong Federation of Electrical & Mechanical Contractors Limited

Chairman of the Judging Panel (Civil Project):
Mr HO Ying Kit, Tony, JP, Deputy Secretary for Development (Works) 3, Development Bureau, HKSARG

Members of the Judging Panel (In apathetical order of surnames):

  • Ir Benjamin CHAN, JP, Project Manager (West), Civil Engineering and Development Department, HKSARG
  • Cr CHAN Chi-man, Vice President, The Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers
  • Ir CHAN Ho-yee, Vice chairperson of Civil Division, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers
  • Prof Jack Chin Pang CHENG, Associate Head of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
  • Mr HO Kwing-kwong, Alex, Director – Industry Development, Construction Industry Council
  • Mr NG Wai-hong, Patrick, Project Manager/Major Works, Highways Department, HKSARG
  • Prof Songye ZHU, Interim Head of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Members of the Excellent Construction Safety Culture Award Judging Panel (In alphabetical order of surnames):

  • Prof Dr Daron Wai Kwong LEUNG, Safety Adviser, The Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers
  • Dr Winson YEUNG, Principal Consultant, Occupational Safety & Health Council

Hashtag: #HKICM

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

About HKICM

Established in 1997 with the sovereignty handover, Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers (“Institute” or “HKICM”) is the only local professional institution representing the construction management profession in Hong Kong. The Institute has developed rapidly, with its members reached 3,439, of which 1,285 were Corporate Members (including Fellows and Members).

Our objectives are to secure the advancement and facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and expertise which constitutes and promotes the practice of and professionalism in construction management. The works of the Institute include setting standards for professional services and performance, establishing rules of conduct, promoting Registered Construction Managers and Construction Supervisors and promulgating the recognition of professional site supervisors. We believe that all construction sites need to be managed by registered professional construction managers to ensure compliance of operation with government laws, safety and environmental protection requirements. In order to improve the professional standard of technical personnel in an orderly manner, the government needs to register and recognize the professional qualifications of site supervisors.

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SIM Highlights the Importance of University Networks in Higher Education Decisions

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – As students and families evaluate higher education options, academic quality and programme offerings remain central considerations. However, there is growing recognition that the university experience extends beyond formal learning, with student wellbeing, peer engagement and career development increasingly influencing decision-making.

In a rapidly evolving employment landscape, higher education institutions are expected not only to provide academic knowledge but also to support students in developing the relationships and networks that can contribute to personal growth and professional readiness.

The Role of Peer Connections in Student Development

University friendships often form an important part of the student experience. Developed through classes, group projects, student organisations, volunteering initiatives and campus activities, these relationships can provide a sense of community and belonging throughout a student’s academic journey.

Research has consistently highlighted the role of peer support in student engagement, wellbeing and academic persistence. Strong social connections can help students adapt to new learning environments, navigate challenges and participate more actively in campus life. For international students in particular, peer networks often play an important role in easing cultural transitions and fostering inclusion.

Beyond graduation, these relationships frequently evolve into long-term personal and professional networks that continue to provide support throughout different stages of life and career development.

Professional Networks and Career Readiness

Alongside peer relationships, professional networks have become an increasingly important component of higher education. Connections with alumni, faculty members, career advisors, employers and industry practitioners can provide students with valuable insights into workplace expectations, emerging industry trends and potential career pathways.

Such interactions help bridge the gap between academic learning and employment by exposing students to real-world perspectives and opportunities. Early engagement with industry networks can also support career planning, mentorship and professional development, equipping students with a deeper understanding of the skills and competencies required in the workforce.

As employers place greater emphasis on workplace readiness and transferable skills, access to professional networks can complement academic qualifications and enhance graduates’ ability to navigate competitive labour markets.

Integrating Student Life and Career Development

Many higher education institutions are responding to evolving student expectations by adopting a more holistic approach to education. This includes creating opportunities for students to engage in co-curricular activities, leadership development programmes, community initiatives and career-related experiences alongside their academic studies.

At SIM Global Education (SIM GE), student engagement initiatives and career development resources form part of a broader ecosystem designed to support both personal and professional growth. Through student clubs, leadership opportunities and career advisory services, students can build interpersonal skills, expand their networks and explore future career possibilities throughout their studies.

For prospective students comparing higher education options, the question is not whether university friendships or professional networks matter more. Both are important. University friends provide belonging, encouragement and shared experiences, while professional networks provide exposure, guidance and access to future opportunities. In an education environment where students are increasingly conscious of wellbeing, employability and return on education, institutions that integrate student life, career development and holistic support are better positioned to meet evolving expectations. A meaningful higher education experience is shaped not only by qualifications, but also by the relationships, confidence and networks that students carry forward.

Looking Ahead

As higher education continues to evolve, students are increasingly seeking learning environments that support both academic achievement and broader developmental outcomes. While qualifications remain important, the relationships, experiences and networks developed during university can also play a significant role in shaping future opportunities.

For prospective students, evaluating higher education options may therefore involve looking beyond curriculum and rankings to consider how institutions foster community, professional engagement and personal development. Together, these elements contribute to a more holistic educational experience and can support students as they prepare for the next stage of their academic, professional and personal journeys.

Reference:

  1. SIM Global Education Overview – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/sim-ge
  2. SIM CCA – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/co-curricular-activities
  3. SIM Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg
  4. SIM Student Life – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/student-life
  5. SIM Student Care – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/student-care
  6. SIM Career Services – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
  7. SIM Advantage – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/sim-advantage
  8. NDPI Peer Support – https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/15/5/602

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

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