Month: 2025-10

HONG KONG, Oct 15, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Standard Chartered and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) jointly released the latest Standard Chartered Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index (GBAI). The latest quarterly survey showed a broad-based recovery in business confidence in the third quarter towards current business performance and business outlook, likely supported by reduced external uncertainty following the extension of the US-China trade truce. The Q3 GBAI indices rose to multi-year high levels. The “current performance” index for business activities edged up to 54.7 from 53.1 in Q2, while the “expectations” index rose to 55.7 from 52 in Q2, marking a four-year and two-year high respectively.During the survey period of early August to early September, though the US’ reciprocal tariffs came into effect, the US extended the trade truce with China by another 90 days to November and reached multiple trade agreements with major trading partners.Amid the constructive dialogue between China and the US, the tariff uncertainty diminished and the overall external environment became relatively stable, supporting a quarter-on-quarter recovery in business sentiment.Almost all the “current performance” and “expectations” sub-indices rebounded. For “current performance”, six of the eight index components saw quarter-on-quarter improvement, led by a sharp 8pts increase in “new orders” (57.5 in Q3 from 49.5 in Q2) and 4.1pts increase in “prices of finished goods/services” (58.8 in Q3 from 54.7 in Q2).The positivism in business outlook was more noticeable with all “expectations” sub-indices staying well above the neutral mark. “Production/sales” saw the strongest rebound (+5.3pts) among the eight main sub-indices, followed by “financing scale” (+4.8pts), “fixed asset investment” (+4.2pts) and “profit” (+3.9pts).Irina Fan, Director of Research, HKTDC, said: “Across GBA cities, nearly all ‘current performance’ and ‘expectations’ rose quarter-on-quarter. In particular, Hong Kong saw the strongest rise in confidence among all cities, with the ‘current performance’ and ‘expectations’ sub-indices edging up a respective 8.3 pts and 7.3 pts to 52.2 and 53.6 in the quarter, underpinned by the continued trade frontloading and robust financial activities.”Hunter Chan, Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered, said: “The survey findings are in line with the positivism we have seen across the markets in the third quarter following the extension of US-China trade truce and expectation of continued dialogue between the two countries during the survey period. However, the persisted trade uncertainty may hold back the business sentiment again. With increasing external uncertainties and the competition challenges in the Chinese Mainland, we believe the trend of diversification will continue. It is consistent with the findings that exploring overseas markets (24.5%) remains one of the strategies that GBA corporates are adopting to mitigate the potential risks.”On the other hand, there has been increasing discussion and concern on “anti-involution”. The survey also examined the impact of excessive competition among businesses and how GBA companies tackle those challenges.Most of the respondents (63.5%) indicated that they had not been affected by excessive domestic competition, while 3.1% of respondents said they benefited from it. About 29% reported a moderate impact and the remaining 5% indicated a significant impact.Among those businesses affected by involution, over 70% saw a negative impact on profit and sales, while only around 40% indicated disruptions to hiring and investment.The companies appear to be adopting multiple strategies to address the challenges from involution, including brand building and marketing (36.3%), cost control / inventory management (35.6%) and providing value-added services (29.7%).About the GBAIThe GBAI is the first forward-looking quarterly survey in the market that looks at the business sentiment and synergistic effects in cities and industries across the GBA. It is compiled based on a survey of more than 1,000 companies in the GBA covering the manufacturing and trading, retail and wholesale, financial services, professional services and innovation and technology sectors. The index enables investors and businesses to better understand the current business climate, gauge future performance prospects and formulate their market strategies for the GBA.Related materialsHKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MjE0MTkwOTU3MAReport and photos download: http://bit.ly/4oiGQDUHunter Chan (left), Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered, and Irina Fan (right), Director of Research, HKTDC, announced the latest GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) on 15 October 2025. Hunter Chan (right), Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered shared the latest findings from thematic questions on “involution”, Irina Fan (right), Director of Research, HKTDC, announced the highlights of the quarterly survey.Media enquiriesCorporate Affairs DepartmentStandard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited Flora Chiu Tel: (852) 3843 2285 Email: flora.chiu@sc.com Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentHKTDC Katy WongClayton Lauw Tel: (852) 2584 4524Tel: (852) 2584 4472Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgEmail: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout Standard CharteredWe are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 54 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges.The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC.For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.About HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit:www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on @hktdc and LinkedIn Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Oct 15, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883) is committed to continuous innovation. Its pioneering intelligence and innovation business model enables a dual empowerment of technology and data. Extending its AI+ innovation vision, CITIC Telecom CPC is pleased to announce a self-developed intelligent security information and event management (SIEM) platform SIEM-MiiND. The new platform utilizes big data and intelligent technologies to enhance the overall efficiency of AI-driven Security Operations Center (AI SOC), elevating beyond AI+ Security and reshaping a new intelligent digital era. CITIC Telecom CPC connects with AI+ ecosystem partners to shapeNew MiiND for a Connected Future Beyond AI+ SecurityMr. Brook Wong, Chief Executive Officer of CITIC Telecom CPC, said, “We strive to be a top-notch partner in the international and intelligent development of enterprises, positioning AI SOC as the preferred partner for enterprise cybersecurity protection. Our newly launched SIEM-MiiND is a crucial step towards this vision. As the core engine of AI SOC, SIEM-MiiND not only enhances the overall efficiency of AI SOC and strengthens cybersecurity framework, it also solidifies our innovation R&D team’s capabilities in putting big data, AI technology and business scenarios into practice, as well as our unwavering commitment to continuous innovation in cybersecurity in the AI era. Leveraging our “AI+ Connecting the world” strategy, we will continue to invest and utilize our world-class ‘AI+ Cloud Network Security’ solutions to help enterprises maintain their competitiveness in the ever-changing security environment and gain a strong foothold in the international markets.” Unveiling the New SIEM-MiiND, the Core that Empowers Smarter AI SOCAI-driven SIEM-MiiND Enhances Cybersecurity FrameworkCITIC Telecom CPC's visionary ICT-MiiND strategy seamlessly integrates innovative technologies, algorithms, computing power and big data into its ICT service platform, laying a foundation for a wide range of “AI+ Cloud Network Security” solutions. CITIC Telecom CPC 's cybersecurity and innovation R&D team has extended Innovation and Intelligent concepts by developing the new SIEM-MiiND intelligent SIEM platform to deliver faster, more accurate cyber threat intelligence analysis and incident response services. AI-driven SIEM-MiiND Enhances Cybersecurity FrameworkCore Capabilities of SIEM-MiiND- Faster Data Analysis: CITIC Telecom CPC leverages proprietary large language models (LLMs) of security analysis to enable rapid retrieval and analysis of massive log data, significantly improving SOC team efficiency.- Secure Data Handling: Enterprise data is transmitted to CITIC Telecom CPC's self-built and managed 24/7 SOC and self-managed LLM for correlation and analysis, ensuring full data security.- More Accurate Threat Detection: Using detailed and customized “Prompt Engineering" to meet specific security needs of different customers, CITIC Telecom CPC fully leverages large models' threat analysis capabilities across various industry scenarios to accurately identify and respond to threat incidents.- Controlled Security Guardrail: A closed-loop defense system covers input validation, intent recognition, output review, and sensitive data filtering, providing end-to-end protection while preventing data leaks out of the LLM.- Comprehensive Alert Channels: One-stop multiple notification channels including email, phone, AI voice alerts, and real-time messaging via WeChat/WhatsApp help customers stay promptly informed about security status. Empowers Intelligent Operations of AI SOC to Reshape Next-Gen Cybersecurity DefenseCITIC Telecom CPC utilizes cutting-edge AI technology to address evolving data and security challenges brought by AI. As the core engine of AI SOC, SIEM-MiiND enables intelligent and secure operations, and deeply integrates AI technology with big data models and small-scale scenario applications. SIEM-MiiND aggregates data through an intelligent cybersecurity information system, optimizes risks and threat analysis process by SOC experts, shortens detection and response time, enhances risk management accuracy and alert efficiency to reduce alert fatigue across an enterprise. AI SOC has enabled CITIC Telecom CPC’s flagship managed cybersecurity suite TrustCSI(TM) 3.0 to deliver a holistic enterprise protection with “Identify, Predict, Detect, Respond and Recover” capabilities, reshaping next-gen cybersecurity model to defend enterprises from cyber threats.Key Features of SIEM-MiiND to Drive Intelligent Secure Operations of AI SOC- Enhanced Detection Capabilities: Preliminary analysis of vulnerabilities and potential Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) proactively reduces enterprise networks threats.- Optimized Rule Sets: Utilizing AI technology, detection thresholds are adjusted according to customers’ historical data and new attack scenarios. New rule sets are automatically and continuously created for aggregating the log data of newly added devices and can also be customized and fine-tuned for enterprises.Improved Response Capabilities: AI SOC implements an intelligent security incident detection mechanism based on AI analysis of threat data collected by SIEM-MiiND, significantly reducing troubleshooting time and enabling actionable recommendations up to 75% faster after the initial email alert. SIEM-MiiND can respond to security incidents within seconds through AI-driven Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) solution, lowering the risk of enterprise network attacks.- AI-Powered Chatbot: Provides enterprises with an additional inquiry channel apart from the 24/7 hotline under a secure authentication login mechanism, enabling them to promptly and clearly understand their latest cybersecurity status and overall security levels from both online and offline channels. AI Chatbot provides precise answers and prompt feedback by effectively analyzing customer enquiries, responding to their needs and obtaining relevant information. This feature will be available in early 2026.- User-Friendly Security Dashboard: Offers a fully visualized interface that consolidates various security metrics and statistical reports, enabling enterprises to comprehensively monitor their latest cybersecurity status.Mr. Kenneth Wong, Vice President of Product and Digital Intelligence Development of CITIC Telecom CPC, said, “SIEM-MiiND is the latest intelligent security information and event management solution which enhances threat detection and automatic incident response abilities via AI technology. Our comprehensive and robust AI SOC is powered by our over 20 years of industry expertise, multiple algorithms and patented applications, cutting-edge AI technology and profound implementation capabilities. SIEM-MiiND meets today’s security needs and supports future scalability, providing cost-effective and robust security defense to address specific security requirements of enterprises in various regions and markets. SIEM-MiiND also enhances the security governance of AI SOC and the overall regulatory compliance level. Our full range of intelligent solutions not only help enterprises streamline security operations and reduce risks but also raise their global competitiveness.” Innovative AI+ Applications Integrated with Cloud, Network Security for a Connected FutureInnovative AI+ Applications Integrated with Cloud, Network Security for a Connected FutureCITIC Telecom CPC’s pioneering “AI+ Cloud, Network, Security” framework with its future-proof AI SOC empowers enterprises across industries to level up cybersecurity and excel in a new era of secure and efficient digital intelligence. AI SOC is powered by a series of innovative intelligent and security applications developed by CITIC Telecom CPC's innovation R&D team, helping enterprises address complex cybersecurity challenges at lower costs and higher efficiency as well as enhancing AI SOC security governance and overall regulatory compliance level. CITIC Telecom CPC’s award-winning AI+ innovations such as AI Pentest, AI Databank, and Workflow+ have already been implemented in various industries with successful use cases, spanning financial institutions, multinational corporations, and tech innovation organizations. They are a testament to the profound value of CITIC Telecom CPC solutions.About CITIC Telecom CPCWe are CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883), serving multinational enterprises the world over by addressing their specific ICT requirements with highly scalable tailored solutions built upon our flagship technology suites, comprising TrueCONNECT(TM) private network solutions, TrustCSI(TM) information security solutions, DataHOUSE(TM) cloud data center solutions, and SmartCLOUD(TM) cloud computing solutions.With the motto “Innovation Never Stops,” we leverage innovative technologies to boost technology empowerment (+AI). Embracing AI, AR, Big Data, IoT, and other cutting-edge emerging technologies we aim to unlock technical potential. By integrating deep learning and intelligent data analysis technologies, we transform these technologies into data empowerment (AI+) generative applications, reshaping the Intelligence Operation Journey of enterprises.With our Global-Local capabilities, we are committed to providing our customers with one-stop-shop ICT solutions with superior quality. Having a worldwide footprint across nearly 160 countries and regions, including Asia, Europe and America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, our global network resources connect nearly 170 points of presence (POPs), 60+ SDWAN gateways, 20 Cloud service centers, 30+ data centers, and three dedicated 24x7 Security Operations Centers (SOCs). We are certified with a series of international certifications, including SD-WAN Ready, ISO 9001, 14001, 20000, 27001, and 27017, to ensure our services compliance with international standards and resources for enterprises. We offer local professional services, superior delivery capabilities as well as exceptional customer experience and best practices through our global presence and extensive industry know-how, becoming a leading integrated intelligent ICT service provider to enterprise customers.For more information, please visit www.citictel-cpc.com.Media Contacts:Catherine YuenCITIC Telecom CPC(852) 2170 7536Email: catherine.yuen@citictel-cpc.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

香港, 2025年10月15日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 中信國際電訊集團有限公司（「中信國際電訊」，香港交易所股份代號：1883）全資擁有的中信國際電訊(信息技術)有限公司(「中信國際電訊CPC」) 致力於創新發展，實現數據賦能新模式，推動技術與數據雙軌發展。中信國際電訊CPC進一步延續AI+創新理念，推出自主研發的「SIEM-MiiND星智神盾」- 數智化安全信息與事件管理平台，利用大數據與智能化技術躍升安全運作中心（AI SOC）整體效能，跨越AI+ 安全，構築智鏈未來的數智新紀元。 中信國際電訊CPC攜手AI+生態伙伴構築智鏈未來 跨越AI+安全中信國際電訊 CPC 行政總裁黃政華先生表示：「我們致力成為企業國際化、智能化發展的高質量合作伙伴，推動AI SOC成為企業信息安全保護首選。最新推出的數智化核心技術「SIEM-MiiND星智神盾」正是邁向這願景的重要一步, 不僅躍升AI SOC運作，強化信息安全框架，夯實了創新研發團隊對大數據、AI技術及應用場景的落地能力，更彰顯我們在AI浪潮下對網絡安全變革創新的堅定承諾。憑藉智鏈全球的市場策略, 我們將持續投入並致力利用高質量"智賦雲網安"服務，助力企業在瞬息萬變的安全環境中保持競爭力, 並在國際市場上取得卓越的優勢。」 數智化核心「SIEM-MiiND 星智神盾」全新啟動, AI SOC營運能力躍升SIEM-MiiND星智神盾提升網絡安全數智化格局中信國際電訊CPC前瞻性創新發展策略「ICT-MiiND」將創新技術、算法算力和大數據等元素，全棧無縫融合到ICT服務平台，實現智賦雲網安綜合解決方案。中信國際電訊CPC的信息安全及創新研發團隊延續智能創新（Innovation）與智慧思維(Intelligence)理念，自主自建最新的SIEM-MiiND 星智神盾安全信息和事件管理平台(SIEM)，強化網絡威脅資訊分析速度、精凖度和威脅事件回應能力。 SIEM-MiiND星智神盾提升網絡安全數智化格局SIEM-MiiND 星智神盾核心能力:- 更快取得數據分析結果: 通過中信國際電訊CPC自建的安全分析大語言模型(LLM), 快速檢索與分析海量日誌資料，智能化提升SOC團隊的工作效率。- 更安全的數據處理: 企業數據傳輸至中信國際電訊CPC自建及管理的7x24安全運作中心和自管的LLM，進行關聯及分析，以確保客戶數據的安全性。- 更精凖的安全事件監測: 通過詳盡的及針對不同客戶實際安全需要的「提示詞工程」(Prompt Engineering), 調動大模型在各行業場景的威脅分析能力、精凖識別和回應威脅事件，減輕警報疲勞。- 更可控的安全圍欄: 全面閉環式防禦體系，從輸入檢查、意圖識別、輸出審核到敏感資訊過濾，實現"事前阻斷、事中引導、事後審查"的全流程防護，並防止敏感性資料洩露與不當回應輸出至LLM外。- 更全面的通報渠道: 一站式多渠道平台融合電郵、電話、人工智能(AI)語音提醒的即時預報，以及微信和WhatsApp的即時通訊，助客戶更及時掌握安全狀況。賦能AI SOC智能運作 重塑未來安全防護模式以創新不斷之AI技術對應AI帶來不斷創新之數據及安全新風險。全新SIEM-MiiND星智神盾是AI SOC的核心技術智慧引擎，賦能數智化安全營運, 深度融合AI技術與大數據模型，小場景應用，以智能化綜合信息調查系統收集數據，優化SOC 專家風險及威脅分析流程，縮短檢測與響應時間，提高風險管理精准度和預報效率，減輕企業警報疲勞。中信國際電訊CPC旗艦信息安全解決方案TrustCSI(TM) 3.0 雲網神盾結合高質量AI SOC平台, 實現「識別、預測、保護、偵測、回應及復原」的全面智能安全防護, 重塑未來網絡安全模式，守護企業免受網絡攻擊。SIEM-MiiND通過以下功能實現AI SOC的智能安全運作：- 增強檢測能力: 主動進行漏洞及潛在妥協指標（IOC）的初步分析，以降低對企業網絡的威脅- 優化規則集: 通過AI技術，根據客戶的歷史資料和新的攻擊情景，調整偵測閾值，並就新增設備的日誌數據持續創建新規則集，為客戶量身訂做和微調規則集- 提升響應能力: AI SOC通過对SIEM-MiiND所收集的威脅數據進行 AI輔助分析，構建了智能化的安全事件檢測機制，大大縮短故障排查時間，在發出初步警報郵件後，視乎安全事件的複雜程度，可較以往快高達75%時間提供進一步細化的安全建議，並通過AI驅動的安全協調、自動化和回應(SOAR) 程式實現秒級安全回應。- 智能問答助手: 為企業提供24/7熱線以外的提問渠道，在安全認證登入機制下，企業可及時透過線上線下瞭解安全事件狀況及整體安全級別。智能問答助手能精準分析客戶問題，進一步對應需求，高效獲取相關資訊，提供有效解答及精准反饋。此功能計劃於2026年初推出。- 簡單易用的安全事件儀表板: 全面可視化界面，集中展示各類安全指標和統計報表，便於企業全面掌握網絡安全態勢中信國際電訊 CPC產品及數智發展部副總裁黄志强先生表示：「SIEM-MiiND 星智神盾是最新的安全信息和事件管理解決方案, 通過AI技術，提升實時威脅檢測和自動化事件回應功能。結合中信國際電訊 CPC二十多年的行業經驗、多項算法與應用專利、深耕人工智能技術及實踐能力，打造出全方位且高效的人工智能安全運作中心（AI SOC）。SIEM-MiiND 不僅符合現今安全需求，更具備未來擴展性，為企業提供具成本效益且強大的安全防護。配合企業於各地區市場的獨特需求，SIEM-MiiND 亦完善了AI SOC的安全治理, 提升整體合規水平。一系列的智能解決方案不但幫助企業簡化安全運作、降低風險，更提升全球競爭力。」 智鏈未來 AI 融合雲網安的創新應用智鏈未來 AI 融合雲網安的創新應用中信國際電訊 CPC提供一站式智賦雲網安服務底座, 以面向未來的AI SOC智賦千行百業, 推動智能安全升級, 與企業攜手步入安全、高效的數字智能新紀元。AI SOC結合中信國際電訊CPC創新研發團隊所開發的一系列智能創新方案及安全應用, 助力企業以更低成本、更高效率應對複雜的網絡安全挑戰，亦完善AI SOC的安全治理, 提升整體合規水準。榮獲多個國際及業界獎項的AI創新及安全方案, AI Pentest 滲透測試, AI Databank 智數庫 及 Workflow+ 已有多個成功的客戶案例，落地應用涉及金融企業、跨國企業及科技創新機構等、彰顯中信國際電訊 CPC解決方案的價值。中信國際電訊CPC簡介中信國際電訊（信息技術）有限公司（「中信國際電訊CPC」）是中信國際電訊集團有限公司（香港交易所股份代號：1883）的全資附屬公司，一直矢志透過先進技術及旗艦解決方案，包括TrueCONNECT(TM)專用網絡服務、TrustCSI(TM)信息安全解決方案、DataHOUSE(TM)全球統一雲數據中心解決方案及SmartCLOUD(TM)雲端運算解決方案，為全球跨國企業提供綜合數碼解決方案，滿足不同行業的ICT服務需求。憑借「創新‧不斷」的服務理念，中信國際電訊CPC積極利用創新技術，提煉"技術賦能"，將人工智能、擴增實境、大數據，物聯網和其他尖端新興技術，融合深度學習及智能數據分析技術，轉化為"數據賦能"生成式AI+應用，重塑企業智能營運之旅。中信國際電訊CPC以「服務在地，連接全球」的優勢，承諾為客戶提供最優質的一站式ICT服務。全球化網絡資源連接近170個服務據點、60多個SDWAN 網關；20個雲服務中心、30多個數據中心及3個全天候運作的安全運作中心，服務遍布逾160個國家和地區，無縫連接亞洲、歐美、非洲、中東以及中亞等地區。透過全球化服務佈局，多年不斷深耕各個行業與領域經驗，一系列國際認證（SD-WAN Ready, ISO 9001、14001、20000、27001 及27017），確保為企業提供國際化標準及專業在地服務能力，成為客戶信賴的信息智能化服務供應商。請瀏覽www.citictel-cpc.com獲取更多資訊。傳媒查詢：Catherine Yuen中信國際電訊CPC(852) 2170 7536電郵：catherine.yuen@citictel-cpc.com Copyright 2025 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Ottawa, Ontario--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - October 15, 2025) - Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) ("Focus" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jean-Francois Perrault as Strategic Advisor. A highly respected Quebec-based capital markets executive, Mr. Perrault will provide strategic and financial guidance as Focus advances its flagship Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca graphite projects towards mine permitting and development.Mr. Perrault brings more than 30 years of experience in merchant banking, capital markets, and investment banking. He is currently Managing Partner at Pavilion Capital Advisers, a capital markets and alternative asset advisory firm serving both public and private enterprises.Previously, he served for 16 years, until 2025, as Managing Director, Corporate Finance at Leede Financial Inc., where he led numerous public and private placement financings for emerging and established Canadian issuers. Earlier, he held senior corporate finance roles with Union Securities and TD Capital. At TD, he helped launch TD Capital Private Equity Partners, Canada's first international private equity fund of funds.In addition to his corporate leadership experience, Mr. Perrault serves on the TSX Venture Exchange's Local Advisory Committee (Eastern Canada), providing guidance on capital formation and venture market growth. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from McGill University and an MBA from Concordia University.Jean-Francois Perrault, commented "I'm delighted to join Focus Graphite as a Strategic Advisor. Quebec has long been a leader in metals and mining, supported by deep capital markets expertise, a skilled workforce, and strong government engagement. Focus Graphite's assets are ideally positioned to benefit from this ecosystem at a time when North America is seeking to reduce its dependence on China for critical minerals. I look forward to leveraging my network and experience to help guide the Company through its next stage of financing and development."Dean Hanisch, CEO of Focus, stated "As Focus Graphite advances toward permitting and development, we're assembling a team with the experience and relationships needed to succeed. Jean-Francois brings over 30 years of experience in Quebec's investment and brokerage community, where he is widely respected across government, institutional funds, and the mining sector. His deep roots in Quebec's metals and mining ecosystem, combined with his capital-markets insight, will bring exceptional value as we enter this next stage of growth."As part of his engagement, Mr. Perrault has been granted 50,000 stock options, exercisable at C$0.60 per share for five (5) years, under the Company's incentive stock option plan, subject to regulatory approval.About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc. Focus Graphite Advanced Materials is redefining the future of critical minerals with two 100% owned world-class graphite projects and cutting-edge battery technology. Our flagship Lac Knife project stands as one of the most advanced high-purity graphite deposits in North America, with a fully completed feasibility study. Lac Knife is set to become a key supplier for the battery, defense, and advanced materials industries.Our Lac Tetepisca project further strengthens our portfolio, with the potential to be one of the largest and highest-purity and grade graphite deposits in North America. At Focus, we go beyond mining - we are pioneering environmentally sustainable processing solutions and innovative battery technologies, including our patent-pending silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite, designed to enhance battery performance and efficiency.Our commitment to innovation ensures a chemical-free, eco-friendly supply chain from mine to market. Collaboration is at the core of our vision. We actively partner with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials. As a North American company, we are dedicated to securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals - reducing dependence on foreign-controlled markets and driving the transition to a sustainable future.For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit http://www.focusgraphite.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-graphite/ X: https://x.com/focusgraphiteInvestors Contact: Dean Hanisch CEO, Focus Graphite Inc. dhanisch@focusgraphite.com +1 (613) 612-6060Jason LatkowcerVP Corporate Developmentjlatkowcer@focusgraphite.comCautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could," "intend," "expect," "believe," "will," "projected," "estimated," and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the anticipated benefits of Mr. Perrault's appointment as Strategic Advisor; his expected contributions to the Company's strategic planning, financing, and capital markets initiatives; and Focus Graphite's advancement toward mine permitting and development of its Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca graphite projects. Forward-looking information also includes statements regarding the Company's objectives to strengthen its leadership team, enhance its capital markets profile, secure project financing, and position itself as a key contributor to North America's critical minerals supply chain and energy transition.Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/270491 Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Oct 15, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – As global efforts toward sustainability accelerate, The Payment Cards Group Limited (“PCG”), a cloud-native payment processor and acquirer, actively supports the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s carbon reduction and green transformation goals. PCG upholds its strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, contributing to building Hong Kong into a sustainable city and promoting low-carbon mobility through innovative payment technology. In September 2025, PCG and its subsidiaries continued to drive innovation and strengthen their commitment to environmental and social responsibility, including becoming the e-payment service provider for China Resources’ electric vehicle (EV) charging brand “Charge Wonderful Life,” launching the POS-free digital payment solution, “AbbyPay,” participating in an SME forum on green transformation, being selected for Cyberport's Blockchain & Digital Asset Pilot Subsidy Scheme, and joining an elderly care initiative, These efforts further reinforce PCG’s leadership in advancing green fintech and building a sustainable society.Partnering with China Resources’ “Charge Wonderful Life” to drive a new era of green mobilityIn alignment with the HKSAR Government’s strategic push to expand EV charging infrastructure, PCG, an acquirer with principal memberships in all major card schemes and e-wallet networks, continues to broaden the digital payment business of its subsidiary, Yedpay, in car parks and EV charging, offering a secure and seamless payment experience. Yedpay has already partnered with leading EV charging apps including “3 EV Station,” “Kilowatt,” and “EVX.” It also supports parking and EV charging payments at major car parks including Kai Tak Sports Park, Citi Tower, 11Skies, and Link shopping malls.Building on this success, Yedpay has recently been appointed as the e-payment service provider for “Charge Wonderful Life,” the EV charging brand jointly launched by China Resources Longdation and China Resources Gas. Through this partnership, Yedpay will provide comprehensive payment services across the “Charge Wonderful Life” EV charging network, supporting multiple payment methods including VISA, Mastercard, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay. Following “Charge Wonderful Life’s” recent partnership with MTR Corporation to install nearly 300 new EV charging stations across its mall car parks, bringing the total number of charging facilities to over 600 by mid-next year, Yedpay’s secure and reliable payment technology will enhance the EV user experience and accelerate the adoption of green, smart mobility, driving Hong Kong’s low-carbon economy forward.Yedpay now supports parking and EV charging payments at major car parks including Kai Tak Sports Park, Citi Tower, 11Skies, and Link shopping malls.Yedpay supports multiple payment methods including VISA, Mastercard, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay on the “Charge Wonderful Life” EV charging app.Launching “AbbyPay” mobile payment app to support payment acceptance anytime, anywhereOn September 2, PCG launched “AbbyPay,” a mobile payment app, at “The Best of the Best Masterchef Recommendation Restaurant (BOBM) 2025” awards organized by the Asia Art of Cuisine Society (AOC). “AbbyPay” leverages SoftPOS technology to free merchants from the constraints of traditional POS terminals. Without any additional hardware, “AbbyPay” transforms any NFC-enabled Android smartphone into a secure and convenient payment device. In addition, it accepts a wide range of payment methods including VISA, Mastercard, FPS, Alipay, WeChat Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, and holds top-tier certifications including PCI DSS Level 1 and CPoC international standards, providing security on par with traditional POS terminals to ensure secure payments for both consumers and merchants.In appreciation of the continued support from Yedpay and BBMSL users, new and existing merchants are invited to call the customer service hotlines (Yedpay: 3905 2568 / BBMSL: 3907 0308) to pre-register for complimentary priority access to “AbbyPay” upon its launch, enjoying POS-free payment acceptance anytime, anywhere. Furthermore, to support Hong Kong’s digital payment development, “AbbyPay” offers all merchants exclusive fee waivers, no annual fees or account setup fees, making it easier for merchants to adopt smart mobile payments.PCG launches “AbbyPay,” a POS-free digital payment solution, at “The Best of the Best Masterchef Recommendation Restaurant (BOBM) 2025” awards.Participating in the “SME Forum on Transformation: Green and Sustainable Future” to drive green paymentsOn September 29, PCG was invited to attend the “SME Forum on Transformation: Green and Sustainable Future,” hosted by the Hong Kong Association of Banks and organized by HSBC, Bank of East Asia, Nanyang Commercial Bank, DBS Bank (Hong Kong), and Chong Hing Bank collectively. The forum served as a valuable platform for SMEs, financial institutions, and industry leaders to exchange insights on navigating the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable practices in the current market landscape. At the forum, PCG introduced its new mobile payment app, “AbbyPay,” showcasing how mobile payment app can support businesses in their sustainability journey by eliminating hardware, reducing paper usage, and streamlining operations, thereby empowering sustainable business models.PCG team introduces “AbbyPay” at the “SME Forum on Transformation: Green and Sustainable Future,” supporting SMEs in their sustainability journey.Selected for Cyberport’s Blockchain & Digital Asset Pilot Subsidy SchemeDrawing on its outstanding capabilities in payment technology, PCG was selected as the sole payment technology company in the “Payment & Stablecoin” category for Cyberport’s Blockchain & Digital Asset Pilot Subsidy Scheme in September, further reinforcing its leadership in Hong Kong’s fintech and blockchain ecosystem.The scheme is designed to foster the development of Hong Kong’s blockchain and digital asset ecosystem, and to deepen the real-world application and adoption of tokenization and blockchain technology, accelerating the practical adoption and growth of emerging technologies across various industries in Hong Kong. Leveraging this opportunity, PCG plans to actively collaborate with partners across industries to transform innovative blockchain and digital asset applications from concepts to reality, unlocking immense commercial potential and further advancing the blockchain and digital asset ecosystem in Hong Kong.PCG is the sole payment technology company selected in the “Payment & Stablecoin” category for Cyberport’s Blockchain & Digital Asset Pilot Subsidy Scheme.Spreading warmth to elderly singletons this Mid-Autumn FestivalAlongside advancing innovative payment solutions, PCG places great emphasis on corporate social responsibility. In celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, PCG’s Yedpay team participated in the “Mid-Autumn Elderly Visit Activity” organized by the H.K.S.K.H. Lady MacLehose Centre. The team visited elderly singletons, delivering mooncakes and festive greetings to spread warmth and care. Looking ahead, PCG will continue to actively engage in charitable activities, contributing to a more caring and harmonious community.In celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Yedpay team visits elderly singletons, demonstrating corporate social responsibility and spreading festive warmth.About The Payment Cards GroupThe Payment Cards Group Limited (“PCG”) is an innovative and leading payment technology company with operations in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 2016, PCG has become an acquirer with principal memberships in all major card schemes and e-wallet networks. Yedpay, a member of PCG, has firmly established itself as a digital payment acceptance business in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, A3A, another member of PCG, has developed a cloud-native payment processing platform that operates through RESTful APIs, significantly reducing costs and streamlining complex processes while providing users with real-time transaction data and insights. Furthermore, BBMSL, a core member of PCG, is a payment facilitator, dedicated to offering comprehensive digital payment solutions to Hong Kong’s small and medium-sized enterprises. As an acquiring processor, PCG serves as the backbone infrastructure of the entire payment industry by its Asia’s 1st cloud-based processing and settlement platform. Rooted in Hong Kong with a global vison, PCG seeks to empower merchants with cutting-edge payment technology solutions and drive high-quality development in the global payment ecosystem.For media enquiries, please contact:AJA (IR & Communications)Avy YuTel: (852) 9500 4443Email: avy.yu@ajacapital.com.hk / info@ajacapital.com.hk Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

香港, 2025年10月15日 - (亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com) - 隨著全球可持續發展進程加速，金融雲支付處理及收單機構交易寶有限公司（「交易寶」或「PCG」）積極響應香港特區政府的減碳及綠色轉型策略，堅定貫徹企業的環境、社會及管治（ESG）承諾，透過創新且領先的支付科技，促進可持續城市建設與低碳出行。2025年9月，PCG及旗下成員持續推動創新發展與環境及社會責任實踐，包括成為華潤旗下「充美好」電動車充電品牌的電子支付合作夥伴、發佈「AbbyPay」免POS終端電子收款方案、參與推動中小企業綠色轉型的論壇活動、獲選為數碼港「區塊鏈與數字資產試點資助計劃」的認可企業，以及開展關懷長者公益行動，進一步鞏固企業在推動綠色金融科技及共建可持續社會方面的核心地位。攜手華潤旗下「充美好」，促進綠色出行新時代配合香港特區政府大力推動電動車充電配套擴展的政策方向，PCG作為擁有所有主要發卡機構和電子錢包網絡主要會員資格的收單機構，持續拓展旗下品牌Yedpay在停車場及電動車充電領域的電子支付業務，為大眾提供更安全、更便捷的支付方案。目前，Yedpay已與「三號電站」、「Kilowatt」及「EVX」等電動車充電應用程式合作，並於啟德體育園、花旗大樓、11Skies及領展旗下商場等多個大型停車場支援停車及電動車充電支付服務。近日，Yedpay再下一城，獲選為華潤隆地與華潤燃氣共同推出的「充美好」電動車充電品牌之電子支付服務商。Yedpay將為「充美好」應用程式覆蓋的充電網絡提供全方位支付服務，支援VISA、Mastercard、支付寶、微信支付及雲閃付等多種支付方式。隨着港鐵近期與「充美好」簽訂合作協議，計劃於旗下商場停車場增設近300個電動車充電位，令充電設施數目大幅增至超過600個，預計明年年中完成設置。Yedpay憑藉其安全穩定的電子支付技術，將提升電動車用家的出行體驗，促進綠色智慧出行普及化，助力香港低碳經濟發展。目前，Yedpay已於啟德體育園、花旗大樓、11Skies及領展旗下商場等多個大型停車場支援停車及電動車充電支付服務。Yedpay將為「充美好」電動車充電應用程式支援VISA、Mastercard、支付寶、微信支付及雲閃付等多種支付方式。「AbbyPay」手機收款程式隆重登場，實現隨時隨地收款9月2日，PCG於亞洲餐飲廚藝協會主辦的「名廚之最推介餐廳 (The Best of the Best Masterchef Recommendation Restaurant – BOBM) 2025」頒獎典禮上隆重發佈全新手機收款應用程式－「AbbyPay」，讓商戶擺脫傳統POS終端束縛。「AbbyPay」採用 SoftPOS 技術，無需額外硬件，讓任何支援 NFC 的 Android 智能手機瞬間化身安全、便利的收款工具。此外，「AbbyPay」支援VISA、Mastercard、轉數快、支付寶、微信支付、Apple Pay、Google Pay 等多種支付方式，並通過 PCI DSS Level 1 及 CPoC 國際認證，安全性與傳統POS同級，保障商戶及消費者交易安心。為感謝大家對 Yedpay 及 BBMSL 一直以來的支持，無論新商戶或現有商戶，即日起可致電客服熱線（Yedpay：3905 2568／BBMSL：3907 0308）優先登記，於「AbbyPay」應用程式上線後免費優先體驗，享受隨時隨地無需POS終端的收款便利。同時，為推動香港數碼支付發展，「AbbyPay」將為全港商戶提供「免年費、免開戶費」專屬優惠，讓所有商戶都能輕鬆實現智能流動收款。PCG於「名廚之最推介餐廳 (The Best of the Best Masterchef Recommendation Restaurant – BOBM) 2025」頒獎典禮上隆重發佈「AbbyPay」免POS終端電子收款方案。積極推動綠色支付，參與「中小企業轉型論壇：綠色與可持續未來」9月29日，PCG獲邀出席由香港銀行公會主辦，滙豐銀行、東亞銀行、南洋商業銀行、星展銀行（香港）及創興銀行協辦的「中小企業轉型論壇：綠色與可持續未來」。該論壇為中小企業、金融機構與業界領袖搭建寶貴交流平台，共同探討在當前市場環境下的可持續發展挑戰與機遇。論壇上， PCG介紹了全新「AbbyPay」手機收款程式，展示如何透過手機收款應用程式減少硬件設備、紙張使用和簡化營運流程，協助中小企實現綠色轉型，為建設可持續商業模式貢獻力量。PCG團隊於「中小企業轉型論壇：綠色與可持續未來」展示其全新「AbbyPay」手機收款程式，助力中小企業實現綠色轉型。獲選為數碼港「區塊鏈與數字資產試點資助計劃」的認可企業同月，PCG憑藉在支付科技領域的卓越實力，成為數碼港「區塊鏈與數字資產試點資助計劃」的認可企業，並在「支付及穩定幣」類別中脫穎而出，成為唯一入選的支付科技公司，進一步奠定其在香港金融科技及區塊鏈領域的領導地位。該計劃旨在推動香港區塊鏈與數字資產生態圈的發展及深化代幣化與區塊鏈技術於真實場景的應用落地，加速新興技術在香港各行各業的實際應用及發展。PCG 將藉此契機，積極與各界開展合作，將區塊鏈與數字資產的創新應用從概念轉化為現實，釋放巨大的商業潛力，進一步促進本港區塊鏈及數字資產生態圈發展。PCG獲選為數碼港「區塊鏈與數字資產試點資助計劃」中「支付及穩定幣」類別的唯一支付科技公司。關懷獨居長者傳遞節日溫暖除了推動創新支付方案外，PCG高度重視企業社會責任。適逢中秋佳節，PCG旗下Yedpay的團隊參與聖公會麥理浩夫人中心舉辦的「中秋關懷長者探訪活動」，探訪區內獨居長者，並送上月餅與節日祝福，為長者送上滿滿的關懷與溫暖。未來，PCG將繼續投身公益活動，為建設更關懷、更和諧的社區出一分力。適逢中秋佳節，Yedpay團隊探訪獨居長者，踐行企業社會責任，傳遞節日溫暖。關於交易寶有限公司交易寶有限公司（「交易寶」或「PCG」）是一家創新且領先的支付科技公司，業務遍及香港、新加坡及亞太地區。成立於2016年，PCG已發展成為一家收單機構，擁有所有主要發卡機構和電子錢包網絡的主要會員資格。PCG品牌Yedpay已在香港建立穩固領先的支付業務，而另一業務A3A則通過RESTful API開發了金融雲支付處理系統，這不僅顯著節省成本、減少複雜的流程，還為用戶提供實時交易數據和洞察。此外，PCG核心企業成員BBMSL在支付生態圈擔任支付服務商（Payment Facilitator）角色，專注於為香港中小企業提供全方位電子支付解決方案。作為收單處理商，PCG憑藉其亞洲首個金融雲處理和結算平台，為整個支付行業提供了重要支持。公司將秉持「扎根香港，放眼全球」的策略，以尖端的金融科技賦能商戶，助力全球支付生態實現高質量發展。如有傳媒垂詢，請聯絡：AJA (IR & Communications)庾婉華電話：(852) 9500 4443電郵：avy.yu@ajacapital.com.hk / info@ajacapital.com.hk Copyright 2025 亞太商訊 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com