SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – Paymentology, the leading global issuer-processor, today announced its official entry into the Australian market, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy.
With a proven track record of enabling banks, fintechs, and digital disruptors worldwide, Paymentology is bringing its advanced, cloud-native processing platform to support Australia’s rapidly evolving payments ecosystem.At the heart of Paymentology’s Australian launch is its local processing infrastructure, enabling seamless connectivity to domestic payment rails, real-time payment systems such as the New Payments Platform, and global card schemes. Paymentology is also working with Cuscal to support connectivity to Bank@Post (Australia Post’s banking service) and EFTPOS, further strengthening its local infrastructure and supporting domestic transactions in Australia. This integration enables access to banking services via the Australia Post network, helping clients deliver more accessible and convenient payment experiences while supporting ongoing innovation in the market.
Australia’s payments market is evolving rapidly, driven by digital adoption, embedded finance, and a new generation of fintechs and neobanks. With cash now making up less than 13% of retail transactions and mobile wallets accounting for around 45% of in-person payments, the market is well positioned for continued innovation and growth.
That momentum is also helping expand access to financial services. Across Australia and the wider region, fintechs and digital banks are increasingly serving SMEs, younger consumers, and other underserved segments. Paymentology enables them to build inclusive, accessible products that broaden financial participation.
Minh Ha Truong, Head of Growth APAC at Paymentology: “Australia is one of the most dynamic payments markets in the world, and a new generation of fintechs and embedded finance providers is redefining what customers expect from financial services. To succeed in that environment, they need infrastructure that won’t slow innovation down or limit growth. By combining global scale with local expertise, we’re helping businesses in Australia build, launch and scale with greater speed, flexibility and confidence.”
Paymentology’s expansion is further strengthened through its partnership with Constantinople, a modern banking platform designed to simplify the complexity of building and operating financial services. Together, the companies are enabling banks and fintechs to launch and scale card programmes with greater speed, flexibility, and operational efficiency, accelerating time-to-market while reducing the burden of legacy infrastructure.
Launching a payment product, however, is only the starting point. Paymentology is designed to sustain momentum beyond go-live, supporting clients as they scale, optimise, and expand into new markets. As a cloud-native issuer processor, it combines global reach with deep local expertise to help banks and fintechs build card programmes that perform consistently across geographies and deliver long-term, compounding value.
Hashtag: #Paymentology #Fintech
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Paymentology
Paymentology is the leading next-generation issuer processor, empowering fintechs, digital banks and retail banks to effortlessly launch and manage innovative payment solutions on a global scale. The company drives greater customer choice and value through easy-to-use, integrated platforms and services that help clients to disrupt the status quo, accelerate time to market, and achieve growth.
With a superior multi-cloud platform offering a vast global footprint, and enhanced real-time data, Paymentology distinguishes itself as a leader in the payments industry. Its team of payments experts, with deep local market knowledge, operates across 50 countries and 14 time zones, providing 24/7 support. Paymentology is deeply committed to expanding financial inclusion globally, changing lives and positively impacting the communities in which it operates.
Professor Joan Bray Rose recognised for pioneering Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) as a global approach for assessing pathogen risks in water
QMRA adopted into global drinking water standards and enabled safe water reuse, benefitting millions worldwide
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – Professor Joan Bray Rose has been awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2026 for her work as a key pioneer in the development and global adoption of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA), a science-based approach to safeguard the quality of drinking water, as well as water reuse systems. Her work has transformed the science of microbial risk management and guided policies that protect public health and ensure safe water for communities worldwide. Her expertise in the domain of water quality and health has also played a key role in strengthening Singapore’s used water management, and the introduction of NEWater, Singapore’s third National Tap.
Professor Joan Bray Rose, Homer Nowlin Chair in Water Research and Director of the Water Alliance at Michigan State University and Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2026 Laureate
2. Commenting on her accolade, Professor Rose, 11th recipient of the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this esteemed award. This recognition reflects our collective progress in advancing microbial risk science and its role in protecting public health today. Safe water is one of the world’s most fundamental yet unevenly distributed resource critical to sustaining human life. As microbial risks continue to evolve, strengthening the robustness of our water systems remains an ongoing endeavour to ensure they remain dependable and resilient; safeguarding both water quality and people’s lives.” She is currently the Homer Nowlin Chair in Water Research, Director of the Water Alliance at Michigan State University.
Uncovering invisible risks to revolutionise water safety
3. In the late 1980s and 1990s, Professor Rose led a team to investigate a series of waterborne disease outbreaks across the United States. Among the most severe was the 1993 Cryptosporidiosis outbreak in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where an estimated 403,000 residents fell ill and at least 69 deaths were recorded[1]. She was the first to demonstrate the widespread occurrence of Cryptosporidium as a zoonotic pathogen[2] in the United States, and its transmission to humans through inadequately filtered and disinfected drinking water supplies. By establishing Cryptosporidium as the causative agent of these outbreaks, she highlighted the vulnerability of drinking water systems to microbial contamination – a challenge with global public health implications. Her findings also revealed a critical gap: pathogens could evade conventional water treatment, existing monitoring systems detected microbes without quantifying risk, and public health responses were largely reactive rather than predictive.
4. Professor Rose then pioneered QMRA in the 1990s and early 2000s to address these critical gaps undermining water safety and public health. QMRA introduced a systematic, science-based approach to assess and manage microbial risks in drinking and other forms of water, including reuse water. By enabling scientists to quantify infection risks and illness probabilities based on pathogen concentrations, exposure pathways and consumption patterns, QMRA shifted water management from reactive “detect and correct” approaches to proactive “predict and prevent” strategies. This revolutionised water safety, boosting the quality of water systems to reliably meet health standards.
Global impact on water microbiology and water quality
5. QMRA is now widely adopted in drinking water regulations worldwide including the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Standards and the World Health Organisation’s Third Edition of the Drinking Water Quality Guidelines in 2004. Her work has enabled water utilities and regulators to define treatment requirements based on tolerable health risks for any given water source.
6. Professor Rose extended the application of QMRA beyond drinking water to assess microbial risks in treated wastewater and water reuse systems. This development greatly strengthened global confidence in leveraging recycled water as a viable and sustainable supply source, and Professor Rose has since strongly advocated for the adoption of water reuse to address global water scarcity. She also advised the Orange County Water District’s Independent Advisory Panel and the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Expert Panel on water reuse. Her guidance contributed to California’s Indirect and Direct Potable Reuse regulations, now models for water reuse standards worldwide, including in Australia, Spain, and the United States.
7. For over two decades, Professor Rose worked closely with PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, to strengthen water quality and safety. She was instrumental in the advancement of NEWater which was introduced in 2003, serving on the NEWater Expert Panel from 1998 to 2002. In her role, Professor Rose shared her expertise, provided guidance on best practices for water quality monitoring, and reviewed findings from health studies which demonstrated the long-term safety of NEWater. From 2003 to 2019, she also chaired PUB’s External Audit Panel, supporting the safe and robust implementation of water reuse in Singapore. In recognition of her significant contributions, she was conferred the Honorary Citizen Award by the Government of Singapore in 2015. Tapping on the QMRA approach, PUB has since strengthened the capabilities to use water quality surveillance data to guide treatment processes and ensure compliance with local and international drinking water standards and guidelines. (Refer to Annex on how QMRA is applied in Singapore.)
8. Beyond research, she has advanced global knowledge and capacity in microbial risk assessment through training and collaborative initiatives such as launching the QMRA Summer Institute[3] and QMRAwiki[4]. She has also strengthened preparedness for waterborne disease outbreaks worldwide by spearheading major international initiatives such as the Global Water Pathogen Project[5] and Wastewater Sphere[6].
Recognising a steadfast champion of global public health
9. Professor Rose, who recently turned 72, has dedicated her professional life to improving water quality and safeguarding public health outcomes. She is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading authorities in water microbiology and received the 2024 International Water Association Global Water Award for her contributions. Today, she continues to lead research on emerging microbial health risks, driven by a deep and enduring commitment to improving lives worldwide. Her work remains critical as cities strengthen their water resilience against evolving public health and climate challenges.
10. Professor Rose will receive the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize – an award certificate, a gold medallion, and S$300,000, presented in partnership with Temasek Foundation – at an award ceremony on 16 June 2026, held during the official opening of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2026. She will also deliver a keynote lecture the same day. SIWW2026 is expected to gather 2,500 leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, utilities, and industry, and over 25,000 trade visitors.
[3] Launched in 2006, The QMRA Summer Institute has trained over 400 professionals worldwide in pathogen risk assessment across water, food, and environmental contexts, with extended collaborations in Singapore, Japan, India, China, Canada, Brazil, Australia, and parts of Europe.
[4] QMRAwiki is the first comprehensive database of microbial dose-response relationships, which has been instrumental in advancing disease transmission modelling and risk characterisation.
[5] The Global Water Pathogen Project (GWPP) is funded by Dow, Dow-Corning and GATES Foundations, in partnership with UNESCO. GWPP creates a comprehensive knowledge hub on water pathogens, aiming to improve global water safety and sanitation.
[6] A sub-portal of GWPP to advance environmental surveillance of sewage for SARS-CoV-2 and support public health measures. W-Sphere aggregated data from over 2,600 cities, counties and regional systems globally.
Annex
Application of QMRA in Singapore’s context
Leveraging on the concepts embedded in QMRA, PUB has established robust treatment processes and a comprehensive water quality surveillance programme to ensure that Singapore’s drinking water consistently meets both local drinking water regulations, as well as international drinking water standards and guidelines. Today, the approach has evolved from a reactive “end-of-pipe testing” to a “process monitoring” approach, one that is more proactive in identifying potential risks within the treatment process.
QMRA also enables PUB to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of different treatment technologies in managing microbial risks. This allows for informed, evidence-based decisions when selecting suitable technology for Singapore’s water sources, further strengthening the safety and reliability of our water supply. For instance, Singapore has adopted new and advanced technologies for water treatment, such as:
(i) reverse osmosis for removal of dissolved ions and particles, including viruses, which are too small to be removed through normal filtration; and
(ii) ultraviolet disinfection and ozonation for disinfection of a broader range of waterborne pathogens.Hashtag: #SingaporeInternationalWaterWeek
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize
Launched in 2008 to honour outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations towards solving the world’s water problems by developing or applying innovative technologies, or implementing policies and programmes which benefit humanity, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize is one of the key highlights of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW).
Named after Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize laureate receives a certificate, a gold medallion and S$300,000 presented in partnership with Temasek Foundation, at the award ceremony held during SIWW.
About the Singapore International Water Week
As one of the premier global platforms, the biennial Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) gathers thought leaders, experts and practitioners from governments, cities, utilities, and industry to share knowledge and best practices on innovative water, coastal and flood solutions, and foster partnerships to tackle urban water and associated climate challenges.
Organised by Singapore International Water Week Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency, the 11th edition of SIWW will be held from 15 to 18 June 2026 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore.
About Temasek Foundation (www.temasekfoundation.org.sg)
Temasek Foundation supports a diverse range of programmes that uplift lives and communities in Singapore and Asia. Temasek Foundation’s programmes are made possible through philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek, as well as gifts and other contributions from other donors. These programmes strive to deliver positive outcomes for individuals and communities now, and for generations to come. Collectively, Temasek Foundation’s programmes strengthen social resilience; foster international exchange and catalyse regional capabilities; advance science; and protect the planet.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – EduCareerSG has enhanced its Experiential Career Accelerator (ECA) programme through the integration of AI-enabled monitoring and support tools designed to strengthen trainees’ emotional readiness as they transition into the workforce.
The integration reflects EduCareerSG’s long-held belief that emotional management is not separate from employability, but a critical component of it. By embedding AI capabilities into its existing systems and modules, EduCareerSG is able to detect potential stress signals earlier, enabling faster intervention and more personalised support from its human welfare team.
“Technical skills and qualifications may get someone through the door, but emotional management determines whether they stay, grow, and cope when things get difficult,” said Mike Teo, Founder of EduCareerSG. “We have seen trainees who are capable on paper, but overwhelmed in practice. By integrating AI into our system, we are able to spot early warning signs and intervene sooner. Career readiness isn’t just about competence, it’s about resilience.”
Through structured weekly check-ins and ongoing engagement within the ECA ecosystem, the system helps surface early signs of workplace stress, adjustment challenges, or emotional strain commonly faced by young people entering live work environments. When potential concerns are identified, alerts are routed to EduCareerSG’s welfare team, where trained staff step in to provide direct guidance and counselling support.
Importantly, the AI functions as an assistive layer rather than a replacement for human oversight. The organisation maintains a human-first approach, with welfare officers taking over whenever emotional risk indicators arise.
The enhancement comes at a time when employers increasingly expect “day-one productivity”, while many young workers struggle with the emotional realities of adapting from classroom settings to workplace environments.
Recent Singapore reports have highlighted rising stress levels among employees and early-career professionals, alongside broader conversations around resilience and sustainable employability. Against this backdrop, EduCareerSG’s approach seeks to address not only skills gaps, but the emotional preparedness required to sustain performance in real-world settings.
Initially implemented within EduCareerSG’s ECA trainees in Singapore, the enhanced system forms part of a broader roadmap to continually upgrade the organisation’s training, welfare, and productivity frameworks. EduCareerSG will review performance and feedback over the coming months before assessing potential regional expansion.
By combining sponsored academic pathways, structured workplace immersion, and technology-enabled emotional support, EduCareerSG continues to refine a holistic workforce preparation model, one that recognises productivity, wellbeing, and long-term employability as interconnected pillars of success. Hashtag: #EduCareerSG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About EduCareerSG
EduCareerSG is a Singapore-based career development organisation that bridges the gap between academic qualifications and real-world employability through its Experiential Career Accelerator (ECA) programme. By combining sponsored education pathways, structured workplace traineeships, soft skills development, and continuous welfare support, EduCareerSG prepares trainees to enter the workforce with practical experience and professional resilience. Learn more at https://educareersg.com/
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – On April 14, the two-day 2026 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit, themed “Digital and Intelligent Empowerment for Innovative Development — Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace,” came to a successful conclusion.
This year marks the second consecutive time that Hong Kong has hosted the international conference. Approximately 1,000 participants attended, including ministerial-level officials from government departments, senior representatives of international organizations, diplomatic envoys to China, leaders from prominent internet enterprises, as well as experts and scholars from more than 50 countries and regions.
John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, stated that the successful hosting of the summit fully demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique advantages under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. The HKSAR Government is accelerating the development of innovation and technology, with artificial intelligence as a key pillar. Hong Kong ranks among the world’s leading economies in AI readiness and is committed to harnessing the power of AI in a responsible and inclusive manner.
Zhuang Rongwen, Chairman of the World Internet Conference and Director of the Cyberspace Administration of China, noted that the summit aims to align with the accelerating trends of digitalization, networking, and intelligent transformation. It seeks to build consensus and pool strengths across sectors, leveraging new achievements and cooperation outcomes in the digital and intelligent fields to make greater contributions toward a brighter digital future for the Asia-Pacific region.
On the afternoon of April 13, the main forum of the 2026 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit, along with the Distinguished Contributors Ceremony, was held in Hong Kong.
Wang Jingtao, Deputy Director of the Cyberspace Administration of China, and Francis Gurry, Vice Chairman of the World Internet Conference and former Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization, attended and delivered keynote speeches. Ren Xianliang, Secretary-General of the World Internet Conference, was also present.
Wang Jingtao pointed out that the global wave of intelligent transformation is surging, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence emerging collectively. He emphasized the need to build consensus and deepen cooperation to address the critical question of how digital technologies can better benefit humanity. He proposed four key measures:
Uphold openness and cooperation to expand the digital economy;
Promote inclusiveness and shared benefits to bridge digital and intelligence divides;
Strengthen coordinated governance to build a fair and equitable cyberspace order;
Reinforce security foundations to safeguard cyberspace safety.
Francis Gurry stated that digital and intelligent empowerment means enabling individuals, enterprises, institutions, and diverse cultural and economic actors to adapt to the digital and AI environment, seize social and economic opportunities, and share in development dividends. He emphasized that all stakeholders bear important responsibilities in this process. The Distinguished Contributors Ceremony was established to honor individuals and enterprises that have driven the development of digital and intelligent technologies, recognizing both their technological excellence and their deep concern for the societal impact of technological transformation.
Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, and Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, also attended and delivered speeches. Other distinguished participants included Wu Jianping, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Director of the Zhongguancun Laboratory; Nii Quaynor, Chairman of Ghana Dot Com and recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Contribution Award; and Kilnam Chon, Honorary Professor at KAIST and also a 2024 award recipient. Wu Dong, Chief Engineer of the Cyberspace Administration of China, also attended the event.
The event invited individuals, enterprises, and prominent figures who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the global internet. Through keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, and personal narratives, participants shared their practices and insights on building a community with a shared future in cyberspace. The program featured four thematic sections: “Tribute to the Connectors of the World,” “Tribute to Technological Innovators,” “Tribute to Digital Pioneers — Hong Kong Dialogue,” and “Tribute to Technology for Good.” Participants also explored future directions and opportunities for artificial intelligence.
During the event, the launch of the 2026 World Internet Conference Leading Science and Technology Awards and the global call for case studies on jointly building a community with a shared future in cyberspace were announced. The launch ceremony for the 2026 Distinguished Contribution Awards was also held.
On April 14, six sub-forums on different themes were held in Hong Kong. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on topics including intelligent agent innovation and applications, digital finance, AI safety governance, smart livelihoods, digital health, and the digitalization and dissemination of classical texts.
On the same day, ten think tanks participating in the World Internet Conference Think Tank Cooperation Program released a series of research outcomes at the Smart Livelihoods and Digital Finance Forum of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Summit.
The 2026 World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit was organized by the World Internet Conference, hosted by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, and co-organized by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR Government.
Hashtag: #WorldInternetConference
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – The Asian Sports and Leisure Online Exhibition 2026 (ASLE 2026) will officially open on April 16, 2026, offering global buyers a one-stop sourcing platform to connect with verified Asian suppliers across the sports, fitness, and leisure industries. Running until August 31, 2026, the exhibition adopts a hybrid online and offline integration model, providing nearly five months of continuous sourcing opportunities and business engagement.
The exhibition focuses on connecting Asian suppliers with global importers and exporters, streamlining cross-border procurement processes, enhancing supply-demand matching efficiency, and enabling businesses to expand into international markets more effectively.
Since its debut in 2022, ASLE, co-organized by AsianNet and TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com), has consistently attracted high-quality international buyers. With strong performance in precise matchmaking, inquiry conversion, and actual order generation, it has become one of Asia’s most representative online B2B trade exhibitions.
Global Exhibition Synergy and Expanded Scale
The 2026 edition will feature a significant scale upgrade and run concurrently with several leading international exhibitions, including the FIBO Germany International Fitness and Wellness Expo, Techtextil Frankfurt, the Outdoor Retailer and Outdoor Design and Innovation Expo in the USA, ISPO USA, and the India International Sports Goods Expo.
By aligning with global exhibition schedules and integrating cross-platform resources, ASLE 2026 consolidates international buyer traffic and enables procurement professionals to efficiently complete supplier selection, product comparison, and sourcing decisions. This approach significantly shortens decision-making cycles and improves procurement accuracy.
Centered on high-efficiency matching, targeted traffic, and conversion-driven results, the exhibition establishes a comprehensive B2B business connection ecosystem. It enhances exhibitors’ global exposure, improves inquiry quality, and effectively drives order conversion and market expansion.
Showcasing Verified Suppliers and Diverse Product Categories
These suppliers will showcase a wide range of products, including fitness equipment, sports gear, functional textiles, outdoor and camping products, and health-related solutions, providing buyers with diverse sourcing options across multiple categories.
ASLE 2026 highlights core sports categories such as Sports and Game Equipment, Sport Ball Equipment and Gear, Fitness and Body Building, Skateboarding and Skating Equipment, and Water Sports Equipment and Supply. The exhibition also features sports accessories, sportswear, and technical textiles, as well as lifestyle segments including Outdoor and Camping Recreation, Sporting and Travel Goods, and Indoor Games and Leisure. Health and Wellness and health food products further extend the exhibition’s cross-industry integration.
By integrating technological innovation with practical applications, ASLE 2026 provides a high-efficiency B2B sourcing environment that enables global buyers and industry partners to expand markets, accelerate procurement decisions, and establish long-term business relationships.
Digital Features Enhancing Efficient Sourcing
The Asian Sports and Leisure Online Exhibition 2026 introduces a range of advanced digital features, including dedicated exhibitor pages, e-catalogs, and integrated online exhibition interfaces. Fully integrated with the TradeAsia platform, these tools significantly enhance supplier visibility and maximize sourcing efficiency.
In addition, the exhibition incorporates an efficient business matching mechanism, enabling buyers to quickly identify suitable suppliers based on their sourcing needs. International buyers can access the exhibition anytime, explore detailed supplier information, and utilize online inquiry functions to accelerate procurement decision-making.
This hybrid model effectively eliminates time and geographical barriers while delivering a cost-efficient and results-driven global sourcing experience.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About TradeAsia
TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com) is a leading B2B international trade platform dedicated to delivering high-efficiency, conversion-driven business matching services. The platform connects millions of members, over 600,000 suppliers, and extensive up-to-date product listings, forming a highly active global supply-demand network.
In addition, TradeAsia has established strategic partnerships with hundreds of trade organizations and exhibition entities worldwide, integrating both online and offline marketing resources to maximize international exposure. Exhibitors benefit from stable, high-quality buyer traffic and expanded global reach, enhancing brand visibility and increasing conversion opportunities.
近年有不少港人開始考慮較低成本的海外退休選項,亞洲地區因而受到關注。菲律賓及馬來西亞憑著較低生活成本,以及多元長期居留政策,成為熱門退休目的地。菲律賓最新退休居留計劃 「特別退休居留簽證」(SRRV)已將申請年齡下調至40歲,門檻進一步降低;而馬來西亞則於2026年「全球十大最佳退休地點」中位列亞洲第二,提供「第二家園 」(Malaysia My 2nd Home, 簡稱MM2H)長期居留計劃,兩地均為退休人士及遠距工作者提供靈活居住安排,同時降低生活成本。
今屆博覽將有多個相關機構介紹東南亞居留與房產投資機會,其中馬來西亞旅遊促進局駐港副總領事 Mr. Yoganthiran Manikam 及菲律賓退休移民署總經理 Mr. Bob Zozobrado更將出席講座,介紹當地最新退休移民計劃及長期居留方案,詳細講解簽證申請流程與投資策略、物業及資產規劃,以及當地生活全攻略,讓更多有意提早規劃退休或長期居留人士,掌握更靈活、更具成本效益的海外生活方案。
Asset Mix Shifts, Australia Overtakes Britain In Migration Appeal, Southeast Asia Interest Doubles Headline Seminars: Shih Wing-Ching On Capital Flows, Wu Kwok Wai On Overseas Property Pitfalls Experts Tackle Migration Myths, Wealth-Transfer Risks And Low-Cost Retirement Options Free Admission And Seminar Seats Are Limited – Register Now
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 April 2026 – Hong Kong’s migration and overseas asset-planning landscape is undergoing a marked shift, with more residents rethinking where and how they hold wealth. The 7th IMPEX International Immigration & Property Expo will take place on April 18 – 19 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, featuring three headline speakers — founder of Centaline Group Mr. Shih Wing-ching, veteran media professional and columnist Ms. June Lam and co-founder of WuChatProp Mr. Wu Kwok Wai, to share insights on global capital flows, risk management and practical overseas property strategies. The expo will also bring together more than 100 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regions, including property developers, relocation consultants, legal advisers and wealth management firms from the UK, North America, Australia, Japan, Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia and the EU, covering overseas residency, international property investment, admissions to top schools and wealth planning. More than 50 expert seminars will be held, alongside complimentary one-on-one consultations.
High-net-worth visitors and over-60s drive sharp rise in interest
A survey conducted by the organiser with online registrants suggests strong cross-generational demand. Registrations from people aged 60 and above have doubled year on year, underscoring rising interest in retirement planning and long-term residence, while interest in migrations from young generations has also surged, showing increasing demands in early life planning and wealth management. Sign-ups from those with net assets of more than HK$30 million have also doubled, pointing to faster overseas asset deployment among high-net-worth individuals. Industry observers said immigration and offshore asset planning are no longer seen as a one-off life decision, but as part of a broader strategy spanning wealth growth, retirement and family planning.
Southeast Asia demand more than doubles, with Malaysia breaking into the top tier
Interest in Southeast Asia has more than doubled, with Malaysia emerging as a major draw. According to the survey, the most popular migration destinations are Australia at 38 per cent, Britain at 36 per cent and Southeast Asia at 35 per cent; interest in Southeast Asia rose from 17 per cent a year earlier to 36 per cent. Interest in the Middle East and the United Arab Emirates also rose sharply, nearly quadrupling, suggesting capital is moving more quickly towards Asia and other emerging markets. Malaysia’s relatively low living costs and flexible long-stay policies have helped lift Southeast Asia into the top tier of preferred destinations.
Australia overtakes Britain as top migration destination
Australia also climbed sharply to become the top migration choice, overtaking Britain. Interest in Australia rose from 29 per cent to 38 per cent, while Britain slipped from 45 per cent to 36 per cent. Interest in the United States and Canada also eased slightly, reflecting a waning appeal for traditional migration markets and a reassessment of policy stability, living costs and long-term planning considerations.
Headline seminar 1: Middle East Tensions and the Global Asset Reordering — In-Depth Dialogue: Mr Shih Wing-ching & Ms. June Lam
As geopolitical tensions, shifting interest rate cycles and volatile energy markets are reshaping capital movements worldwide, investors face growing uncertainty in navigating the financial landscape. Mr Shih Wing-ching, founder of Centaline Group, will join Ms. June Lam, veteran media professional and columnist, to discuss the influence on global finance and key investment decisions, from macro trends to practical strategies, offering actionable insights to help investors seize opportunities at uncertain times.
Event highlights:
In‑depth analysis of how Middle East developments impact global finance and energy markets
Uncovering shifts in safe‑haven assets and capital flow forecasts for the next 6–12 months
Practical asset‑allocation advice: how to optimize equities, bonds, cash, and property in a high‑rate environment
Focus on Hong Kong property opportunities: student housing, co‑living, and commercial repurposing trends
Date: 19 April (Sunday) Time: 11am – 12nn Venue: Stage A
Headline seminar 2: Ask the Experts – The Overseas Property Survival Guide, Wu Kwok Wai x 3 senior experts
Hosted by Mr Wu Kwok Wai, co-founder of WuChatProp alongside three senior specialists, the seminar will focus on practical due diligence for property buyers in Japan, the UK and Thailand, decoding risks and commonly overlooked issues through firsthand market experience, helping investors to avoid pitfalls in overseas property buying.
Highlights:
In earthquakes, who safeguards homeowners’ interests?
Will higher immigration thresholds lift demand and rents in local housing markets?
What should buyers look out for when inspecting a property themselves?
When tenants turn troublesome, do the police offer any real remedy? And is there insurance that covers damage?
Can property ownership help secure a long-stay visa? And what happens if an application is turned down?
Does a beachfront home carry an edge in long-stay visa approval over a city property?
Date: 18 April (Saturday) Time: 11am – 12nn Venue: Stage A
Experts debunks common migration myths and key decisions behind
As more Hongkongers consider relocation or cross‑border investment, misunderstandings persist about migration planning and asset handling. Experts at the expo will tackle common misconceptions around migration, tax and asset management, including whether people need to sell property before emigrating, liquidate stocks and funds, or make special arrangements for insurance claims and MPF. Industry experts emphasize that migration should be seen not as asset liquidation, but as a chance to restructure wealth more efficiently across jurisdictions.
At the expo, international law firms, family offices, accountants and wealth managers will offer complimentary one‑on‑one consultations to help attendees clarify key concerns about cross-border assets and identity planning.
Migration does not necessarily mean “splitting the family wealth”
Popular destinations such as Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom impose combined income, capital gains and inheritance taxes that can reach up to 50 per cent, far exceeding Hong Kong’s top rate of 17 per cent. Proper tax planning and asset structuring before relocation can therefore significantly reduce exposure and improve wealth transfer outcomes.
Visitors will have access to three complimentary advisory services covering asset and tax assessment, insurance portfolio review and MPF consultation, along with practical seminars on trust formation and cross‑border tax strategies.
Asia gains ground as a lower-cost retirement destination
Beyond migration, the desire for low‑cost, high‑quality retirement options is also shaping investment trends. The Philippines and Malaysia have emerged as leading choices thanks to their relatively modest living costs and long‑term residence schemes. The Philippines has lowered the qualifying age for its Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) to 40, while Malaysia’s Malaysia My 2nd Home (MM2H) programme continues to attract global retirees, ranking second in Asia on the 2026 Global Retirement Index .
Both markets will be showcased at the expo, where Mr Yoganthiran Manikam, Consulate General (Tourism), Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board and Mr Bob Zozobrado, General Manager of the Philippine Retirement Authority, will present the latest visa policies, real‑estate developments and lifestyle planning strategies for Hong Kong investors exploring long‑term or early‑retirement options.
Positioned as Hong Kong’s leading platform for global mobility and international assets, IMPEX is sharpening its purpose in 2026. Rather than simply promoting “migration”, the expo now focuses on strategic optionality and residency planning: not just selling “properties”, but revealing new horizons and investment opportunities. Under the theme “Beyond Your Horizons”, IMPEX aims to move beyond migration‑centric messaging and become a comprehensive platform for global mobility and cross‑border asset planning, reflecting the evolving needs of Hongkongers seeking to future‑proof their lives and portfolios. IMPEX empowers individuals to architect a legacy and design a life without borders.
The 7th International Immigration & Property Expo
Date:18-19 April, 2026 Venue:Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Hall 5G Website:https://immigration-expo.com/en/ (Free Entry, Register Now)
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IMPEX
IMPEX is the definite gateway for global mobility and international asset curation in Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area connecting over 230,000 high intent expo visitors to date. IMPEX 2026 will bring together over 100 exhibitors from more than 40 countries – including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan, Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, and across the EU, providing complimentary one‑on‑one consultations, alongside 50+ expert seminars and unlimited investment opportunities – empowering individuals to architect a legacy and design a life without borders.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2026 – VinUniversity (VinUni) has announced the launch of its Global Academic Recruitment Tour 2026, an initiative spanning 10 countries and designed to engage outstanding scholars across key academic centres worldwide. As part of this effort, the University introduces the VinUniversity Assistant Professorships (VAP), offering substantial research support of up to USD 1 million for early-career academics in selected fields.
VinUni is offering substantial research support of up to USD 1 million for early-career academics in selected fields.
The tour, taking place from April to August, will include visits to major academic hubs in the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, Japan, South Korea and South East Asia. Through a series of academic exchanges, faculty dialogues, and participation in leading international conferences—including IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech, and Signal Processing (IEEE); the Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR), the International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML); The 17th Asian Conference on Arts & Humanities (ACAH); and The Annual Meeting of the Academy of Management (AOM). VinUni seeks to foster meaningful engagement with scholars working at the forefront of research, particularly in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
This initiative reflects VinUni’s evolving approach to academic recruitment, characterised by sustained international engagement and an emphasis on scholarly collaboration. The University aims to attract individuals of high academic distinction who are committed not only to advancing disciplinary knowledge, but also to contributing to the broader societal application of research.
Central to this effort is the VinUniversity Assistant Professorships (VAP), established to support exceptional early-career scholars. The programme provides a comprehensive academic environment, including significant research funding, access to dedicated laboratory space, and advanced research infrastructure. Scholars are further supported through institutional mechanisms for research development, grant acquisition, and academic administration.
In addition to internal resources, VAP appointees may pursue competitive funding opportunities through established national and international channels, including the Vingroup Innovation Foundation and the National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED), thereby enabling the sustained growth and international visibility of their research programmes.
Professor Ling San, Senior Deputy President of VinUniversity, noted: “The VinUniversity Assistant Professorships program is designed to attract exceptional early-career scholars who want to do more than follow traditional academic pathways. With up to $1M in research funding, dedicated lab support, and strong industry partnerships, VinUni provides the conditions for scholars—particularly in AI and emerging technologies—to move quickly from ideas to real-world impact.
What makes VinUni distinctive is the rare opportunity to help build a world-class university in a rapidly evolving economy. For many scholars, this is not just a career move, but a chance to shape the future of research and innovation in a new global hub.”
Established as Vietnam’s first private, not-for-profit university founded on international standards, VinUni has developed strategic partnerships with leading global institutions, including Cornell University, the University of Pennsylvania, and Nanyang Technological University (Singapore). These collaborations contribute to the University’s academic development and its integration within the international higher education landscape.
Supported by Vingroup, VinUni operates within a broader ecosystem that connects academic inquiry with industry and innovation. This environment offers faculty the opportunity to extend the reach of their research beyond the academy and engage with questions of practical and societal significance.
Through the Global Academic Recruitment Tour 2026, VinUni affirms its commitment to academic excellence and international engagement, and extends an invitation to scholars who seek to contribute to the advancement of knowledge within a dynamic and globally connected setting.
Hashtag: #VinUniversity
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