PASIG, Philippines, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Solidifying its reputation of being a bank for MSMEs, Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) recently launched UB Negosyante, its "powered Up" solution for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) At the Podium Hall in Mandaluyong last Nov 8. The new brand for UnionBank’s MSME business banking was unveiled to the media and launched to a gathering of MSME clients and prospects.

UB Negosyante-a solution for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)

UB Negosyante’s powered up campaign comes on the heels of the Bank’s business banking app being recognized as the Best Smart Payments Solution by an SME Bank by The Digital Banker at the recently held Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards 2023 in Singapore. UB Negosyante was launched with the aim of supporting MSMEs in their entrepreneurial journey by prioritizing their needs, whether they’re small and medium business owners, sole proprietors, or micropreneurs who want to take their business to the next level.

UnionBank launched the MSME Business Banking app in 2021 and the powered up UB Negosyante builds on the benefits of the original app as it has enhanced tools that can help entrepreneurs take their business even further. During the launch, UnionBank showcased successful MSME clients while Marketing Entrepreneurship Mentor (and UnionBank independent director) Josiah Go shared Innovation tips for the attendees and participated in a fireside chat with seasoned entrepreneurs, Mr. Jorge Wieneke & Ms. Nene Tamayo-Plamio in a program hosted by Ms Lia Cruz.

According to UnionBank Institutional Segment Marketing Head Dino Velasco, the new name was the result of a survey and collaboration efforts conducted among business owners and the Bank’s existing MSME clients with the goal of assessing their sentiments regarding potential enhancements to the app’s name. The survey findings revealed a strong preference for the name  due to its simplicity and relatability.

"Compared to MSME Business Banking, the new ‘UB Negosyante’ brand is more relatable, easy to understand, and more inclusive. That was the intent behind the rebranding," Velasco said.

"SMEs face so many challenges due to various pain points which can be discouraging to them. We wanted to address those pain points, so we put together a single user experience through the UB Negosyante app that will address those pain points, may they be related to collection, reconciliation, disbursement, just to name a few," said UnionBank Business Banking Head Jaypee Soliman.

To support the new solution, UnionBank also launched the "Powered UP" campaign, which will promote all the features of the new solution and how they can benefit entrepreneurs, as well as provide tips and best practices that will aid them in their entrepreneurial journey.

The campaign is a revitalized version of the Bank’s "Power to Grow" #WalangMaliitNaBusiness campaign launched in 2022. Its goal then as it is now, is to inspire MSMEs and help them with their business growth, while at the same time, make them aware that UnionBank is with them as a partner every step of the way.

Among the tools available with the rebranded UB Negosyante is the improved mobile app, a fully-featured mobile application that allows SMEs to transfer funds, pay bills, collect payments, and deposit checks on the go. It comes with BizStarter, a basic checking account that requires a low opening and maintaining balance of just P5000.

There’s also QRPH/UPAY for MSMEs, an all-in-one payment acceptance hub that allows merchants to collect payments easily via QR or link. In return, customers can pay through various channels such as banks, E-wallets, over the counter, and more.

Through the new app, customers can also apply for loans with a multi-purpose credit line up to P10 million; an MD line which is a credit line up to P10 million, available to medical practitioners; and the Dealer Financing Line, a non-secured credit line that enables buyers from supply chain companies to pay their dues efficiently through a digital platform, among many others.

The UB Negosyante suite of solutions includes UnionBank GlobalLinker, an online platform where SMEs can set up a free online store to boost their online marketing, make the right SME business connections, access exclusive SME benefits on essential business services, and learn from other SMEs and experts.

These solutions are in line with UnionBank’s advocacy of helping MSMEs in the digital economy, and is also one of the many ways the Bank is contributing to nation-building by helping Filipino entrepreneurs digitize their business as part of its Tech-Up Pilipinas advocacy.

Source : UnionBank's 'Powered UP' campaign launches UB Negosyante

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network

Held in São Paulo, the event was attended by representatives of the Brazilian Tree Industry (Ibá), the São Paulo State Government and WWF-Brazil 

SAO PAULO, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Bracell, a global leader in the production of dissolving pulp, recently held "Bracell 2030: Construction of a Legacy for a Sustainable Future" conference. In order to expand the debates about sustainability, the company brought together authorities and experts on the subject to discuss the necessary actions to build a more inclusive and sustainable future. During the event, the company also launched Bracell 2030, its strategic sustainability agenda for 2030, which brings together goals and commitments to expand the positive impacts of its value chain operation. Bracell is a member of the Singapore-based RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto.

During the event, Bracell President Praveen Singhavi stressed that businesses and sustainability are two faces of the same coin and that he continually invests in cutting-edge technologies to promote improved operational efficiency in the use of natural resources and reduced GHG emissions in their industrial and forest operations. "Forests, water, soil and climate are intrinsically linked to our business. In considering this and placing people and communities at the center of everything we do, we can play our role in the transition to a more inclusive and sustainable world." According to the Mr. Singhavi, the Bracell 2030 plan defines the company’s strategy and sustainability priorities for the coming years focused on generating positive impact on climate, nature and people.

Moderated by journalist Christiane Pelajo, the event also featured a panel discussion on how companies in the sector can advance further on the sustainability agenda and have a positive impact on the country and society. Among the panelists were: Paulo Hartung, economist, former governor of Espírito Santo and executive president of the Brazilian trees industry (Ibá); Liv Costa, Corporate Management Director of the São Paulo State Environmental Company (Cetesb); Mauricio Voivodic, President of WWF-Brazil; and Luiz Dutra, Bracell’s executive vice president of corporate affairs.

"Historically, companies report their initiatives to their shareholders. But modern companies know the importance of reporting to the society. The pulp sector is an outlier in Brazil from the point of view of value-added generation. It plants, harvests, replants and conserves", said Paulo Hartung.

"Bracell has ESG pillars permeating all its business strategy. Therefore, in addition to our own operation, we value suppliers, partners, communities and other audiences of interest aligned with these premises and act to take a benchmark position for the sector. We believe that only then can we deliver concrete and sustainable results and impact on the entire value chain," said Luiz Dutra.

"When we look at Bracell and the partnership we have, via Forest Foundation, we are talking about restoration, in protection related to fires, education and environmental awareness, research and technology. This all has to do with sustainability of environmental preservation," says Natália Resende, Secretary of Environment, Infrastructure and Logistics of São Paulo. Liv Costa, in turn, spoke about the relevance of companies’ social and environmental performance. "Public-private partnerships and everyone’s involvement are very important to achieve goals as a society", she said.

Márcio Nappo, Bracell’s vice president of sustainability and communications, stressed that with Bracell 2030 the company defines a clear roadmap for sustainability, with ambitious goals and commitments aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. "Through the concrete actions of Bracell 2030 we can build a better future for the pulp and paper industry in Brazil, positioning Bracell as one of the leading voices in sustainability in our sector," he said.

In addition to presentations and debates, government representatives, partners, customers, opinion makers and employees were able to better understand a range of initiatives and projects conducted by Bracell, such as the Green Pharmacy Project in the Quilombola Cangula community, in Alagoinhas (BA), which was created to enhance the ancestral knowledge of the community in the creation of natural-based products including flavorings, medicines, candles and soaps.  Another highlight of the event was the presence of the 100% electric large transport truck which is being tested by Bracell for the transportation of pulp. The vehicle was externally parked to the event venue, reinforcing the existing actions of the company to be positive for the climate.

About Bracell:

Bracell is a global leader in the production of dissolving pulp and specialty cellulose with two main mill operations in Brazil in Bahia and São Paulo. In addition to its operations in Brazil, Bracell has a management office in Singapore and sales offices in Asia, Europe and the U.S.  www.bracell.com.

About RGE:

Headquartered in Singapore, RGE is a group of resource-based manufacturing companies with global operations. We produce sustainable natural fibres, edible oils, green packaging and clean natural gas used to create products that feed, clothe and energise the world. We help improve billions of peoples’ lives through sustainable products they use every day. With more than US$30 billion in assets and 60,000 employees, we are creating a more recyclable, biodegradable and lower carbon future. Committed to sustainable development, conservation and community development, we strive towards what is good for the community, good for the country, good for the climate, good for the customer, and good for the company. With current operations spanning across Indonesia, China, Brazil, Spain and Canada, we continue to expand and engage new markets. www.rgei.com.

Source : Bracell Gathers Industry Experts, Government Authorities and NGOs to Launch Bracell 2030 Sustainability Actions and Commitments

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network

SINGAPORE, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Noah, the telehealth platform tailored for men and created by Ordinary Folk, is pleased to announce the launch of its "Play The Full Game" campaign and the appointment of Fandi Ahmad as Noah’s brand ambassador. The campaign aims to empower men to have the confidence to take a step towards seeking treatment for male health issues proactively. Singaporean football legend Fandi Ahmad was chosen as the representative for this initiative for his embodiment of healthy confidence.

Campaign Focus: Boosting Confidence and Challenging Stigma

The core objective of the "Play The Full Game" campaign is twofold: to bolster men’s confidence in prioritising their health and to confront the stigma associated with men’s physical and mental health. Noah acknowledges the importance of establishing a supportive environment where men feel at ease while seeking medical help and information concerning their health.

Introducing Noah SG: Your Trusted Health Partner

Noah SG is a private, discreet, secure male health online treatment clinic approved by the Ministry of Health, Singapore. Its mission is to enhance the accessibility of male health care while eradicating the barriers of embarrassment and hesitation. Expert medical guidance is provided through Noah’s panel of certified physicians, ensuring that every man can confidently take charge of his well-being.

Conversational Video Series Featuring Fandi Ahmad and Dr Kevin Chua

To inaugurate the campaign, Noah has launched an engaging conversational video series starring brand ambassador Fandi Ahmad and Dr Kevin Chua, the Clinical Lead for Noah Singapore, hosted by Kishan J. This series delves into vital topics such as male health, masculinity, and the eradication of stigma associated with male health conditions. These conversations will foster a greater understanding of men’s health and encourage open dialogue. The conversational video series is currently shared across Noah’s social media platforms.

Noah’s Commitment to Redefining Men’s Health Narratives

Noah is committed to reshaping the narratives surrounding men’s health and instigating a cultural shift where every man feels empowered to assume control of his health. We invite you to join us on this journey.

To explore Noah’s telemedicine services and be part of this movement, please visit our official website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

About Noah

Noah is a men’s health brand that aims to inspire and build confidence in men to take charge of their own health in both mental and physical aspects. We want to open conversation around topics that men shy away from due to stigma, such as Erectile Dysfunction and Androgenetic Alopecia (hair loss). Noah connects men to quality, convenient and affordable care on our MOH-approved telemedicine platform to look and feel their best all the time. Noah was founded in Singapore and has a rapidly expanding presence in Asia, now extended to Hong Kong and, most recently, Japan.

Source : Noah Launches "Play The Full Game" Campaign with Singaporean Football Legend Fandi Ahmad as Brand Ambassador

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network

Students will have the chance to showcase their accounting and finance skills at the AsiaPac finals, with winners receiving a U.S. CMA Scholarship and an Amazon gift voucher

SINGAPORE, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants), one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on the advancement of the management accounting profession, is accepting entries for the 2024 IMA AsiaPac Student Case Competition now through 2 February 2024. This prestigious competition invites university students from the Asia Pacific region to take part in this challenging but rewarding competition, which provides an opportunity for students to interpret, analyze, evaluate, synthesize, and communicate a solution to a management accounting problem.

Students across the Asia Pacific will need to register and compete as a team of three to five members. Members of the group can be from different academic programs but must all be from the same institution/university. As part of the case competition, teams need to prepare and present virtually to IMA members and distinguished business professionals.

The 2024 case study was written by Jason Porter, Ph.D. from Carson College of Business at Washington State University, and Michael W. Penn Jr., Ph.D. and James Turner, Ph.D., from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Participants will need to think strategically and use their analytical skills to solve the business case "Determining How to Classify Stock Investments: The Case of Unbekannt, Inc." which asks students to look at the fictitious food distributor’s current strategic position and to determine the correct classification for Unbekannt’s investment in Éxito Real, Inc.

The top three winning teams of the AsiaPac competition will be awarded prizes* consisting of a U.S. CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) Scholarship worth over US$2,000, Amazon gift vouchers, and the opportunity to participate in the Team Membership Program with an IMA chapter. ** Additionally, the first place winning team will receive an exclusive career preparation and development mentoring session with Dr. Josh Heniro, managing director of IMA Asia Pacific.

"Building on the resounding success of previous years, this competition once again provides a unique opportunity for students to hone their strategic thinking abilities while tackling real-world challenges faced by enterprises. It goes beyond textbooks, encouraging the development of critical-thinking skills, the art of making informed decisions, and effective communication – qualities that are in high demand in today’s professional landscape," said Heniro. "Over the years, we have seen a remarkable evolution in the quality and creativity of solutions proposed by students, and this year promises to be no different. We eagerly anticipate the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that the returning competition will bring. IMA Asia Pacific is committed to nurturing the talent and problem-solving capabilities of our future industry leaders, and we look forward to an exciting and engaging competition."

Full competition details are available here: 2024 IMA AsiaPac Student Case Competition

About IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants)

IMA® is one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession. Globally, IMA supports the profession through research, the CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) and CSCA® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis) programs, continuing education, networking, and advocacy of the highest ethical business practices. Twice named Professional Body of the Year by The Accountant/International Accounting Bulletin, IMA has a global network of about 140,000 members in 150 countries and more than 350 professional and student chapters. Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., USA, IMA provides localized services through its four global regions: The Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and the Middle East/India. For more information about IMA, please visit www.imanet.org.

*Terms and conditions apply.

** Subject to the presence of a local chapter in the country where the winning team is based.

Source : IMA Launches 2024 AsiaPac Student Case Competition

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network

SINGAPORE, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ – Leading EdTech company, Creta Class, showcases its innovative AI-powered interactive education solutions at EDUtech Asia 2023, setting a new trend in early childhood education. Creta Class has combined AI technology and education expertise to serve over one million learners in more than 500 cities worldwide, offering them an excellent and effective early education experience.

EDUtech Asia, Asia’s largest gathering of educators and EdTech providers, took place from 8th to 9th of November, 2023, in Singapore. The event, themed "Inspiration in Education," attracted over 350 speakers, covering seven key areas including basic education, higher education, classroom technology, digital courses, and digital leadership. The event drew more than 200 leading EdTech companies and start-ups from across the globe, showcasing the latest educational technology solutions.

Creta Class Showcases Innovative AI-Powered Early Education Solutions at EDUtech Asia 2023

As a participant in this grand event, Creta Class received industry and expert recognition on the spot for its unique AI education solutions. An Education Expert Mr. Choi from Korea expressed: "Creta Class, with its professional and meticulously designed blend of AI technology and animated content, has been involved in guiding children’s learning interests and confidence from the preschool stage. This greatly benefits them in establishing long-lasting learning habits."

Over the course of the two-day event, Creta Class showcased its AI-driven education solutions. By integrating modern AI technology with child education research and tailoring this to children’s cognitive, behavioural and social needs, they have developed progressive and inspiring products. Additionally, its product suite also includes a Subject-Based 3D Animated Courses for Kids, Cretapedia and Smart Interactive Learning Tablet, Creta Tap.

In addition to showcasing their products at stand K13, on 8th November, Creta Class shared an engaging presentation titled, "Cultivating Future Learners: AI-Driven Interactive Animated Courses for Children" on the TECH showcase stage. Attendees were able to experience firsthand the inspiring and fun educational experiences that Creta Class offers to children globally.

CEO of Creta Class, Carlton Kuo, stated, "The advancement of technology has provided many possibilities for education. We are committed to applying cutting-edge technology to product development and services, aiming to provide a globally inspiring, fun and high-quality early education experience. This increases their interest and confidence in exploring, benefiting them for a lifetime." Creta Class’s commitment to integrating technology into early education was fully demonstrated at EDUtech Asia.

About Creta Class:

Creta Class integrates AI technology and education expertise to provide a fun, inspiring, and high-quality educational experience for children around the world with a presence in the United States, Singapore, Japan, Korea, India, among other countries and regions.

For more information, please visit www.cretaclass.com.
Media contact: [email protected].

Source : Creta Class Showcases Innovative AI-Powered Early Education Solutions at EDUtech Asia 2023

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network

TOKYO, Nov. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. (the "Company") hereby announces that as shown on August 21, 2023, in the "Acquisition of Shares of Tramo SA" announcement, it has completed the acquisition of shares in Tramo SA, a logistics company operating across Europe and the USA, through NIPPON EXPRESS ITALIA S.p.A., effective October 31, 2023.

Logo: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M103866/202311022196/_prw_PI1fl_68s4T535.jpg

From left to right: Arnaldo Vivoli/Tramo Group CEO, Giovanni Di Maggio/Tramo Group General Director, Shinichi Kakiyama/Executive Officer, Regional General Manager Europe of NX
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M103866/202311022196/_prw_PI2fl_Tu0UtVr2.jpg

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Chiasso (Switzerland), Tramo specializes in high-end furniture logistics, with offices in Italy, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, Spain, the UK and the USA.

The Tramo Group, highly regarded by the market, provides freight forwarding via land, sea, and air, as well as white-glove services (including value-added services during delivery, such as installation) and storage, mainly for high-end furniture manufactured in Italy.

The NX Group has strengthened its efforts in the apparel industry, which it has positioned as a priority industry in its business plan. In particular, it has developed globally a highly specialized business led by NIPPON EXPRESS ITALIA S.p.A. in the field of luxury and fashion goods logistics. In recent years, the Group’s customers oriented to luxury and fashion goods have been expanding their brands globally through products that characterize lifestyles, such as furniture and hotels, beyond the traditional apparel framework.

With the integration of Tramo as a subsidiary, the NX Group will acquire know-how and capabilities in areas such as collection and delivery, which are optimal for high-end design furniture, thus enabling the Company to broaden its range of solutions it can offer to its customers. In addition, by bringing together the logistics functions of the Tramo Group and NX Group’s global network, the two groups will be able to expand each other’s service line-ups and solution offerings.

Going forward, the Company will aim to maximize the synergies created out of this integration in order to offer even higher quality of high-end specialized services to customers who enjoy their lifestyles around the world.

Overview of Tramo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202311022196-O1-sH59OX09.pdf

NX’s official website: https://www.nipponexpress.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nippon-express-group/

Source : NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS Completes Acquisition of Shares in Tramo SA, Making It Fully Owned Subsidiary

>

This content was prepared by our news partner, Cision PR Newswire. The opinions and the content published on this page are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Siam News Network