Photonis Showcases Advanced Nuclear Instrumentation Solutions at Utility Working Conference

Photonis, part of Exosens, a leading global provider of neutron and gamma detectors for the nuclear industry, announces its participation at the American Nuclear Society’s Utility Working Conference and Vendor Technology Expo from August 4-7, 2024, in Marco Island, Florida. This event marks Photonis’ strategic initiative to expand its presence in the U.S. market, showcasing its commitment to delivering high-quality, customized solutions tailored to the unique needs of the nuclear industry.

Photonis at UWC

Photonis at UWC

With over 50 years of experience designing and manufacturing nuclear instrumentation for French nuclear power plants and research programs, Photonis brings a wealth of expertise to the American market. The company’s comprehensive catalog of nuclear components includes market-leading technology such as High-Temperature In-Core and Ex-Core Fission Chambers, Miniature Gamma Ionization Chambers, and High-Sensitivity Boron-Lined Proportional Counters. Also featured are Mineral Insulated Cable Extensions and Connectors, highlighting Photonis’ capability in product development and adaptation.

This extensive experience and innovative product range have earned Photonis a reputation as a trusted partner in the nuclear industry, with customers relying on its nuclear instrumentation in over 180 nuclear power plants worldwide. Additionally, Photonis is a critical component supplier for the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), further solidifying its reputation as a leading provider of high-quality nuclear detection solutions.

Photonis’ neutron and gamma detectors play a crucial role in ensuring safety and control of nuclear reactors, fuel reprocessing plants, radioactive waste storage, and nuclear research facilities worldwide. By expanding its presence in the U.S. market, Photonis aims to establish itself as a trusted partner capable of delivering high-quality, tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of industry stakeholders.

“We are thrilled to participate in the ANS Utility Working Conference and introduce our advanced nuclear instrumentation solutions to the U.S. market. Photonis is dedicated to meeting the stringent safety and regulatory requirements of the nuclear industry and to becoming one of the major solutions providers in the North American market. We look forward to engaging with U.S. customers and demonstrating how our technologies can enhance the safety and efficiency of their operations,” said Ulrich Laupper, President and Executive General Manager of the Ultimate Detection Business Unit of Exosens.

The company’s commitment to excellence is underscored by its dedicated Research and Development team, operating under ISO9001, ISO19443, RCCE (EDF Rules), ASME NQA-1, and HAF604 certifications, ensuring rigorous quality standards across all operations.

Attendees of the ANS Utility Working Conference are invited to visit Photonis at booth #105 to explore its wide range of innovative nuclear instrumentation solutions and discuss partnership opportunities.

ABOUT PHOTONIS:

Photonis is a leading product brand of Exosens, a high-tech company with more than 85 years of experience in the innovation, development, manufacture and sale of high-end electro-optical technologies. Photonis offers its customers photo-detection and low-light conditions imaging solutions for extremely demanding environments such as Defense & Security, Nuclear Safety, Life Science and Industrial & Non-Destructive testing. Photonis is internationally recognized as a leading brand and a major innovator in its fields with production and R&D sites in Europe and North America.

For more information: exosens.com.

Contact Information:
Sales Manager
Nuclear Instrumentation Sales Manager – North America
nuclearsales@exosens.com
508-744-8769

SOURCE: Photonis Scientific, Inc.

Metapunks announces NFT Metaverse Avatars Public Sale

London, UK – (ACN Newswire) – The First 2000 metapunks were sold privately. Now, it is open to the general public.

What is interesting about this project?

  • Not just JPEGs

Unlike many other collections, Metapunks are full-fledged 3D models. Owners can see their NFTs in a 3D viewer on the website or use AR to integrate Metapunks in the real world. Avatars can be downloaded from the site, animated, and imported into various projects or Metaverses such as Webaverse. Additionally, each avatar has three stylish photos, which can be used, for example, on Twitter. The collection features eleven attributes that guarantee a lot of variety.

  • Ecosystem Matters

Metapunks is one of the first large NFT collections on Algorand. Despite being a top 20 coin with a 10B$+ market cap, Algorand is still not on the radar of many cryptocurrency investors. The Algorand ecosystem is young and rapidly developing. Original NFT projects on Algorand, such as Al Goanna, made their original owners by making them thousands of percent in average return. Despite being a new project, Metapunks is widely known in the Algorand community. The project was featured twice on the main page of Algorand.com ( https://algorand.com/ ).

Another example is an official collaboration with the Drone Racing League announced on the Decipher, the leading Algorand conference, which brought together around 400 participants in 2021.

The team behind Metapunks published an excellent competitive analysis article about Algorand blockchain. You can read it [here](https://bit.ly/why-algorand).

  • Lots of Potential

The project has an ambitious roadmap. At the beginning of 2021, they plan to introduce the META token, NFT Staking, NFT Swap, and other DeFi mechanics. But the main milestone in the roadmap is MetaDAO, one of the first DAO projects on Algorand. MetaDAO will invest in other projects Metaverse aligned projects “on Algorand and beyond.” Currently, 10% of sales are going directly to the MetaDAO treasury.

Metapanks sales are available now on their website:

https://app.metapunks.world/

There is more information about the project on the main page:

https://metapunks.world/?utm_source=yahoo

Media Contact
Brand: Metapunks
Contact: Media Team
Email: x@metapunks.world
Website: http://metapunks.world
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetaPunksOG

SOURCE: Metapunks

Charles Huang Foundation Makes Record-Breaking US$40 Million Donation to His Alma Mater, Wuhan University

  • Single-largest personal donation ever received by Wuhan University
  • Second alma mater donation by the Foundation this year, totaling US$110 million in grants to promote advanced education, health research, and growth-driven innovation

Charles Huang, PhD, through his philanthropic foundation—Charles Huang Foundation (CHF)—made a donation of US$40 million to Wuhan University of China at the celebration ceremony of the university’s 128th anniversary, to express his appreciation to his alma mater and to promote the development of advanced education, health research and growth-driven innovation. This philanthropic gift is the single-largest personal donation ever received by Wuhan University. Together with the US$70 million landmark grant given by CHF to the University of Strathclyde in the UK in September, Dr Huang has donated a total of US$110 million to his two alma maters through his philanthropic foundation this year.

Dr Charles Huang, Founder and Chairman of Charles Huang Foundation (Right), and Professor Dou Xiankang, President of Wuhan University (Left), jointly signed the unprecedented grant agreement

The donation was formally made at a virtual signing ceremony held between Wuhan University campus in China and the Foundation headquarters in Pasadena, California, earlier today.

The US$40 million funding will be used to provide significant and long-lasting support for Wuhan University to attract and recruit top scholars, develop and create innovative and entrepreneurial talents with exceptional leadership skills, and advance research and teaching capabilities, especially in the field of Management Science at Wuhan University’s School of Economics and Management.

Dr Huang, Founder and Chairman of CHF said, “My study in Wuhan University signified the starting point of my journey to the world beyond and I deeply believe that all my achievements are based upon the excellent education that I received.”

“Today I’m fulfilling the promise I made to donate at least $100 million of my personal wealth to my alma maters in China and the UK upon my firm achieving tremendous business goals within 5 years after its formation,” added Dr Huang.

Dr Huang established the private equity firm, Pasaca Capital Inc., in Los Angeles at the end of 2016. Since then, Pasaca has delivered on Dr Huang’s vision to set the world record for rapid growth on revenue, speed and scale within the first 5 years. Pasaca has now earned its place among other legendary businesses globally.

“As his alma mater, we are very proud that Wuhan University helped to cultivate such a global visionary entrepreneur like Dr Huang. We would like to express our sincere thanks to our alumnus Dr Huang and Charles Huang Foundation for this tremendously generous donation to the university, which will help us cultivate first-class innovative talents, enhance our capabilities in scientific research and innovation, and contribute to Wuhan University’s development into a world-class university with uniquely Chinese characteristics,” said Professor Dou Xiankang, President of Wuhan University.

Following the completion of his bachelor’s degree in economics at Wuhan University, and MBA and PhD studies in the UK, Dr Huang joined James Capel (Now HSBC Securities) in Hong Kong where he became a pioneer in Chinese equity research. Later joining Credit Lyonnais and BNP Paribas he was recognized as having “the Midas touch” because of his unrivaled stock selection skills and impeccable stock market calls. Dr Huang participated in and led over 20 IPOs prior to becoming a celebrated business executive in private and publicly traded companies.

In 2016, Dr Huang founded Pasaca Capital Inc. in Pasadena, California. With a focus on medical devices, pharmaceuticals, TMT, industrial & automation, and food ingredient sectors, Pasaca Capital seeks to improve the human condition globally. One of Pasaca Capital’s portfolio companies, Innova Medical Group Inc. is the global leader and the largest supplier of COVID-19 antigen rapid testing in the world with manufacturing facilities in the US, the UK, France, Singapore, and China. To date, Innova Medical Group has delivered more than two billion rapid tests worldwide.

On November 1, 2021, Dr Huang was named “2021 Philanthropreneur of the Year” by the California State Assembly in recognition of the exceptional leadership he demonstrated while building the California-based private equity firm Pasaca Capital Inc. into a global evergreen fund with unprecedented scale and speed, and his commitment to improving the human condition by making large donations through his foundation. Pasaca Capital was also named “2021 Business of the Year” by the California State Assembly for its extraordinary contributions to the State of California and the world.

On November 11, 2021, Innova Medical Group, Inc. established a global joint venture, Sino-Innovax Biotech Pte Ltd, with Sinopharm’s China National Biotech Group (CNBG) with a focus on providing critical vaccines to the world population, including the highly sought-after World Health Organization-approved COVID-19 vaccines.

For more information about Dr Huang and his foundation, please visit www.charleshuangfoundation.org.

About Charles Huang Foundation’s Donation to Wuhan University
The US$40 million donation will mainly support six programs:

  • Pasaca/Innova Endowed Chair Fund: Attract and recruit world-leading scholars to advance research and teaching in management science, natural sciences, and medicine/medical/health-related areas.
  •  Innova Excellence Scholarship Program: A merit-based scholarship program to reward the most outstanding and innovative students to encourage innovation in scientific research.
  • Innova Award for Undergraduate Innovation Achievement: Reward students with exceptional “Innovation, Originality and Entrepreneurship” achievements and help students develop innovation and entrepreneurship competence.
  • Innova International Exchange Scholarship Program: Help Wuhan University develop more creative and innovative talents with a global vision and international competitiveness through sponsoring scholarship exchanges with world-leading universities.
  • Innova Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Construct a new building that will provide a best-in-class public platform and facilities in Mainland China to support undergraduate independent innovation, school-enterprise collaborative education, and entrepreneurship.
  • Pasaca Education Fund for the Economics and Management School of Wuhan University: A special Education Fund exclusively for the Economics and Management School to attract and recruit top-rated scholars and outstanding talents in the fields of Management Science, facilitate international exchange programs, and fund the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award.

About Pasaca Capital Inc.
Headquartered in Pasadena, CA, US, Pasaca Capital Inc. is an evergreen private equity investment firm focused on innovative technologies and products that benefit the world. With a focus on medical devices, pharmaceuticals, TMT, industrial & automation, and food ingredient sectors, Pasaca Capital seeks to improve the human condition globally. Pasaca portfolio companies operate in Europe, Middle East, SE Asia, and North America. Portfolio companies include Innova Medical Group Inc, Sweegen Inc, Meepo Inc., ATL Group Ltd, ASOCS, Caton Technology and others.

For more information about Pasaca, please visit www.pasacacapital.com.

About Innova Medical Group, Inc.
Innova Medical Group, Inc. is a global health screening and diagnostic innovator driven to dramatically improve health outcomes worldwide with equitable, high-value testing solutions. A uniquely strategic and iterative approach enables Innova Medical Group to create, build and deploy a myriad of accessible tests customized to meet and empower users at their point of need. With a panoramic vision spanning the present to the future, Innova Medical Group develops trusted solutions that are both intuitive and secure to use. Innova has quickly and nimbly become the world’s largest provider of COVID-19 tests, and is determined to execute on this model across infectious diseases, other chronic conditions and wellness.

For more information about Innova Medical Group, Inc., please visit: www.innovamedgroup.com

For press inquiries:
Strategic Financial Relations (China) Limited
Anita Cheung Tel: (852) 2864 4827 Email: anita.cheung@sprg.com.hk
Chris Lee Tel: (852) 2864 4963 Email: chris.lee@sprg.com.hk

Dusit International makes its Oman debut with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its presence in the Middle East with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar – the first Dusit-branded hotel in Oman.

dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International

Owned by the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), which is the executive arm of the Sultanate for tourism development, the deluxe resort is located within a brand new 8,000 sq m Adventure Park on the Saiq Plateau in the Jabal Akhdar area, just a five-minute drive from the ‘Grand Canyon of the Middle East,’ and two hours by car from Muscat International Airport.

Comprising 252 beautifully decorated rooms and suites, the contemporary resort fully embraces its unique mountain location with a spacious layout that blends seamlessly with its stunning natural surrounds.

Alongside breathtaking views, guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, and a large outdoor swimming pool. A specialty restaurant, a Kids Club, and a signature Namm spa offering traditional Thai-inspired massage therapies and treatments are set to open later in the year. Dusit’s new group-wide wellness concept and approach will also be introduced to weave well-being elements throughout the stay experience. With a focus on physical vitality and mental health, this unparalleled approach will include the provision of mountain running, yoga, pilates, Thai boxing, guided meditation workshops, and other experiences and events that harness nature, sustainability, and adventure, to deliver healthy fun for adults and children alike.

The resort is also well-equipped for future business events and social gatherings, with a grand ballroom that can cater for up to 150 guests, and several adjoining meeting rooms featuring the latest audio-visual equipment.

The Adventure Park, slated to open later in the year, will feature exciting activities to delight visitors of all ages, such as zip-line rides offering impressive views of the surrounding valley. A petting zoo and science centre where budding young Einsteins can get to grips with all kinds of fun experiments are also set to open when the world reopens to international travel.

To uniquely link guests with the location, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar will also soon offer educational hiking, cycling and quad biking tours to ancient forts, traditional markets and other local attractions, such as the historic town of Nizwa, known as the ‘Pearl of Islam.’

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, all guests also benefit from Dusit’s carefully crafted ‘Dusit Care’ services. Designed to offer ultimate peace of mind, these go beyond enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver additional convenience, experience and value while maximizing guest safety. Flexible check-in, anytime breakfast, and mobile payment methods are just some of the services offered.

“We are delighted to make our Oman debut with this vibrant resort which showcases the heritage, culture and visual splendor of the destination in truly distinctive fashion,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “From enriching wellness experiences and exciting dining journeys to adventurous excursions and a wide range of exhilarating activities, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar has all the elements in place to provide a highly memorable vacation for visitors of all ages. Bright days are on the horizon for international travel, and we look forward to making the property a resounding success.”

Mr Gerhard Stutz, General Manager, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, said, “Uniquely blending Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with local customs and traditions, our resort provides unparalleled access to wonder and adventure in a gorgeous location surrounded by breathtaking mountains and valleys. It’s truly a distinctive proposition for travelers, and we look forward to leveraging our unique position and offerings to deliver amazing vacation experiences that help to put the area on the map as a must-visit destination to the benefit of our broader community.”

For more information about the resort and its opening room rates, please visit our website.

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 15 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company.

For more information, please visit our website.

Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at medialib.dusit.com.

About OMRAN

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) was established in 2005 by the Government as the executive arm of the Sultanate responsible for delivering the objectives contained in 2040 National Tourism Strategy. OMRAN works closely with the Ministry of Tourism and other governmental entities to identify priorities, projects and opportunities that will maximize the potential of the Sultanate’s tourism sector.

OMRAN creates sustainable and authentic tourism assets, lifestyle communities and destinations that drive economic growth and contribute to the diversification of the economy.

Media Contact:
Sureerat Sudpairak | Director of Marketing Communications | Dusit International
T: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3321 | M: +66 89 006 8697 | E: sureerat.sp@dusit.com

Anta Presents Team China’s High-tech Podium Uniform for Tokyo Summer Olympics

Chinese sportswear brand Anta presented Team China’s podium uniform for the Tokyo Olympics, called ‘Champion Dragon Clothes’ on June 25 in Beijing. The uniform is designed by Tim Yip, also known as Ye Jintian, the renowned art director,

visual artist and Oscar winner for best art design.

According to Ye, the uniform combines Chinese traditional cultural icons, beauty and advanced sportswear technologies. The designer said he hoped to show the beauty of Chinese culture in the most creative design language to the world.

“This is probably the longest time in history it took to design the Champion Dragon Clothes for Team China. It’s different from designing costumes for movies or shows. We need to show the beauty of athletes’ bodies, so we have conducted many studies,” said Ye.

“We also used many advanced technologies and high-quality materials for different functions of the uniform. During the process, I’ve been impressed by Anta’s technologies, especially the shoes. It’s fresh and interesting for me to learn about making sneakers lightweight, yet with good breathability and durability at the same time.”

Working with the Chinese Olympic Committee for 16 years, Anta has invested over 3 billion yuan ($460 million) in the research and development of sportswear technology. Throughout the years, Anta has provided sportswear to 28 Chinese national teams in different Olympics.

Anta also launched specially-designed sportswear and equipment for different sports at Friday’s event. For example, the custom-made weightlifter’s shoes are 2.5 times stronger than regular footwear and can handle weights of more than a ton.

The unique support system of the weightlifting suit can improve waist support and prevent muscle strain; while the wrestling uniform, with anti-grab fabric technology, reduces the chance of being grasped by the opponent. Gymnastics and trampoline suits are tailored in 3D to protect the human body from injury in every movement, particularly high-intensity aerial movements, and from being affected by wind resistance.

With the help of the competition equipment created by Anta, Chinese athletes have won 111 medals in various world competitions, including the Olympics. Anta has applied each of these sports science and technology achievements to commercial sports equipment, using technology to protect every sports enthusiast.

“Sponsoring Olympic teams has always been one of our focuses. We have provided sportswear for Olympics in different climates as well, and we have more than1,400 patents to show for it,” said Wu Yonghua, executive director of Anta Group.

“We work closely with the Chinese Olympics, yet we work with Chinese sports generally. As we designed the Team China podium uniform to show the best of Chinese culture, we also use the best sports technology to manufacture it.”

Media Contact:
Kennth Ko
overseas@anta.com
www.ANTA.com
400-885-6000

Spinning electricity from heat and cold

A new device harvests two types of energy during the daytime, making it cool on one end and hot on the other, to generate electricity around the clock. With further improvements, the device could be used in off-grid Internet-of-things sensors. The details were published in the journal Science and Technology of Advanced Materials.

Thermal emission is radiated from the top of the device, keeping it cool, while sunlight is absorbed at the bottom, keeping that part warm. The temperature gradient and types of materials used lead to the generation of a spin current that is converted to thermoelectric voltage.

Scientists have known for at least 200 years that electricity can be generated from a temperature gradient, a phenomenon called thermoelectric generation. Recently, researchers have developed thermoelectric conversion technologies by changing material parameters and introducing new principles. For example, researchers have found that magnetic materials can generate thermoelectric voltage by inducing a flow of electron spins along a temperature gradient, called the spin Seebeck effect, and that increasing a device’s length perpendicular to the gradient boosts voltage. Scientists would like to fabricate more efficient, thin thermoelectric devices based on the spin Seebeck effect. However, the thinner the device, the more difficult it is to maintain a temperature gradient between its top and bottom.

Satoshi Ishii and Ken-ichi Uchida of Japan’s National Institute for Materials Science and colleagues have solved this problem by making a device with magnetic layers that continuously cools at the top and absorbs heat from the sun at the bottom. In this way, the device harvests two types of energy. Radiative cooling occurs at the top, as heat is lost from material in the form of infrared radiation, while solar radiation is absorbed in the bottom.

“It is really important to take full advantage of renewable energy in order to achieve a more sustainable society,” explains Ishii. “Daytime radiative cooling and solar heating have both been used to improve a variety of thermoelectric applications. Our device uses both types of energy simultaneously to generate a thermoelectric voltage.”

Here’s how it works:

The device has four layers. The top layer is a weak paramagnet made of gadolinium gallium garnet. This layer is transparent to sunlight and emits thermal radiation to the universe, getting cooler. Sunlight passes through to the following ferrimagnetic layer made of yttrium iron garnet. This layer is also transparent, so light continues to travel down into the bottom two light-absorbing layers, made of paramagnetic platinum and blackbody paint. The bottom section stays warm due to sunlight absorption. The spin current is generated in the ferromagnetic layer owing to the temperature gradient between the top and bottom of the device and is converted to electric voltage in the paramagnetic platinum layer.

The device works best on clear days, as clouds reduce the achievable temperature gradient by blocking the emitted infrared radiation from passing through the atmosphere and reducing the solar heating.

While promising, the device’s thermoelectric generation efficiency was still quite low. The team plans to boost its efficiency by improving the design, experimenting with different material combinations, and developing even more novel strategies for thermoelectric generation.

Further information
Satoshi Ishii
National Institute for Materials Science
E: sishii@nims.go.jp

Ken-ichi Uchida
National Institute for Materials Science
E: UCHIDA.Kenichi@nims.go.jp

About Science and Technology of Advanced Materials Journal

Open access journal STAM publishes outstanding research articles across all aspects of materials science, including functional and structural materials, theoretical analyses, and properties of materials. Website: https://www.tandfonline.com/toc/tsta20/current

Dr. Yoshikazu Shinohara
STAM Publishing Director
E: SHINOHARA.Yoshikazu@nims.go.jp

Press release distributed by ResearchSEA for Science and Technology of Advanced Materials.

Don Muang Tollway (SET:DMT) begins stock trading on SET

Don Muang Tollway PCL (SET:DMT), an experienced transportation infrastructure management company and an operator of the Uttraphimuk Elevated Toll Road or Don Muang Tollway, will begin its trading on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on May 7, 2021. With expertise in managing a toll road business for over 30 years, the company is looking for new investment opportunities and aiming to become a leader in developing and managing transportation infrastructure projects in Thailand, creating sustainable growth and ensure steady returns for its shareholders in the long term.

Mr. Tarnin Phanichewa, Managing Director of Don Muang Tollway, reports that the company will begin trading its shares on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on May 7, 2021, under the Transportation and Logistics sector with the symbol of DMT.

DMT has been well preparing on business expansion plans to take advantage of public-private partnership opportunities, allowing private sectors to participate in infrastructure development projects with the government. Leveraging on its strengths and having more than 30 years of experience in managing Don Muang Tollway, the company is in a good position to participate in the 20-year Intercity Motorway Development Master Plan envisioned by the Department of Highways. Besides, the company is interested in non-toll businesses such as highway rest area projects.

Part of the fundraising proceeds will be used for the debt repayment in order to be a debt-free company, reducing the financial burden and strengthening the company’s financial position. The business expansion plans together with its strong financial position will boost sustainable growth and ensure good returns for shareholders in the long run.

“I would like to thank you all investors for trusting in DMT. We are determined to become a leading player in the development and management of transportation infrastructures in Thailand. With our over 30-year experience and expertise in the business, we believe that we will play an important role in improving Thailand’s competitiveness by creating high-quality transportation infrastructures and transportation network, and at the same time we also believe that DMT will be able to achieve stable growth and decent rate of returns to our shareholders,” Mr. Tarnin says.

Mr. Varah Sucharitakul, Executive Director of Finansa Securities Limited, as the sole lead underwriter, says DMT’s IPO received a very warm welcome from investors. IPO fundraising proceeds will definitely strengthen the company’s financial status and enable DMT to be a debt-free company. With DMT’s dividend policy having a payout ratio of not less than 90% of net profit after the capital reserve as required by law, we believe that the investors will receive stable and attractive returns.

On top of that, investors will benefit from the public-private partnership opportunities allowing DMT to selectively participate and invest in various projects under the 20-year Intercity Motorway Development Master Plan under the responsibility of the Department of Highways, he adds.

Mr. Worawas Wassanont, Managing Director of Avantgarde Capital Co., Ltd., as the financial advisor, says DMT’s stock will be in the spotlight from the investors because of its strong business fundamentals and its expertise in transportation infrastructures. By utilizing modern technologies on the traffic management, the operation of the Don Muang Tollway has become more efficient as well as be ready for the 24 hours to ensure prompt services to the Tollway users and for the increasing number of Tollway users which are expected to be the normal level after the end of COVID-19 pandemic.

DMT is also leveraging on its knowledge and experience to expand its businesses, enhancing decent returns to all shareholders, he says.

For more information, please contact:
Tasanun Chuiklom (Noo), E: tasanun.c@tollway.co.th, Don Muang Tollway PCL
Pipop Khongwong (Top), E: pipop.k@mtmultimedia.com, MT Multimedia Co., Ltd.

Filmmakers and National TV Stations May Submit Audio-Visual Productions with Original Music, Composers, Sound Designers May Compose for Films in FMC 2021

On March 28, FMC-Film Music Contest 2021 the unique international music competition and awards and one of the largest competitions of its kind in Europe expanding into Asia, has opened online registration for the regular and new competition categories.

1. Films, TV series, videos with original music

Film and TV creators, production companies, national and private television stations, independent creators and audio-visual content producers may also participate in the new year of the unique international competition and awards FMC-Film Music Contest 2021.

You may submit films, videos and TV series of any genre without regard to the date of their creation. This includes any experimental, animated, documentary sci-fi films, films for children or genre hybrids with original music.

The music is the main and most important component evaluated in these works.

Members of the prestigious international jury FMC 2021 will decide which films or television series with original music will be this year’s finalists and who will be the overall winner.

“In the past, we have discovered many very interesting films, videos and serials in different genres from many countries around the world for this category. The works were often visually ambitious; however, we were mainly interested in the sound component of the film and the original music score. We also screened the finalists at the closing gala ceremony, and it was a genuine experience for all the international guests in the hall,” said FMC Director Vlado Zeleznak Jr.

In the past, this competition category was dominated by American and EU production, but also included works from Australia and New Zealand.

“Since FMC is attempting to incorporate Asia, we believe that Asian filmmakers and television with their extensive and high-quality production will also sign up for this year’s competition,” added Vlado Zeleznak Jr.

You can submit your films and videos in mp4 format with a maximum file size of 500MB to this category with a maximum length of 10 minutes.

Registration around the world is already open online, directly on the official FMC website: https://www.fmcontest.com/product/films-videos-tvs-original-music/

The Deadline to enter Films, TV series, videos with original music is on August 31, 2021

2. Trailer Music “Iceland”

FMC in collaboration with talented film and video maker, photographer and traveler Vlado Lorinc brings a completely new opportunity for all musicians to create their creative idea and compose trailer music for the travel documentary “The way of inspiration Iceland”.

Iceland – popular spot and prominent location for Hollywood blockbuster films or tv series (Star Wars, Prometheus, Game of Thrones, Star Trek: Discovery, Interstellar, James Bond-Die Another Day, Fast & Furious 8) will be a location for all our competitors who will be able to realize their creative compositional ideas without any restrictions.

The competition is open to composers, sound designers, producers, musicians without age limit who will be able to work on the film in their studios and subsequently submit a film with original music online to the competition for the evaluation process.

For many composers, this may be their first experience of working on a professional film and try the whole process of musical composition. They will have plenty of time to create an interesting and unique musical perspective and further enhance the experience of this film work about a unique Iceland.

We believe that the whole process will be fun for the competitors, enriching with the same chance to advance to the semifinals and finals or become an absolute winner.

Read more about the category here: https://www.fmcontest.com/trailer-music/
Online registration is possible via this link: https://www.fmcontest.com/product/trailer-music/
The Deadline to enter Trailer music category is on July 31, 2021.

3. Compose Music for the Animated Sci-Fi film “To the Pathfinders of the Universe” by filmmaker, artist and visionary Alexander Krasnov.

This film is a sequel to the successful film scoring category, where composers and sound designers will be able to compose an original composition for this visionary work.

“This video is dedicated to all the researchers of this astonishing and bottomless space called Cosmos. Whether it’s a vanguard of spaceships discovering new worlds, or scientists broadcasting from their sterile observatories – all of them, day by day, are helping us get closer to a more holistic understanding of the Universe,” said Alexander Krasnov author of the film.

Online registration is possible via this link: https://www.fmcontest.com/product/compose-music-for-the-animated-sci-fi-film/

The Deadline to enter Animated sci-fi film category is on July 31, 2021
Along with the opening of the competition, FMC 2021’s official video trailer was also unveiled.
https://youtu.be/x4F-IgfQjJg

Who will judge and listen to competition entries?
An elite group of professionals from the EU, USA, Asia and Australia will be made up of representatives from the music and film business who actively work for national TV broadcasters, the largest Asian and Hollywood film studios, cultural or theater institutions, agencies as well as for Netflix.

Valuable Prizes
Organizers are proud that thanks to this year’s exclusive partners as well as event partners the prizes will be in such a high value of more than 58 000 Euros.

Follow FMC-Film Music Contest on Social Media:
Facebook: facebook.com/FilmMusicContest
Instagram: instagram.com/fmcontest
YouTube: 
http://bit.ly/3oOaG48
#fmcfilmmusiccontest

Media Contact:
Mgr. Vlado Zeleznak Jr.
Director, FMC-Film Music Contest, PRESS FMC
E: press@fmcontest.com

Wintermar Offshore (WINS:JK) Reports FY2020 Results

Wintermar Offshore Marine (WINS:JK) has reported results for the full FY2020, achieving a gross profit of US$1.1 million, turning around from a gross loss of US$1.27 mil in FY2019, as utilization rose to 66% in Q42020. The rise in vessel utilization provided a boost to revenue of US$11.9 million for 4Q2020, and brought the Company back to a gross profit for the full FY2020.

A strong 4th quarter saw high-tier vessel utilization reach 77% as several drilling projects commenced. Although revenue for FY2020 was 23% lower than FY2019, the significant cost control measures in the past year brought total direct expenses down by 26% YOY.

–Owned Vessel Division

As oil prices stabilized, there was a recovery in drilling activity in 4Q2020, particularly benefitting the high tier fleet which saw utilization jump to 77% for the final quarter. This boosted Owned Vessel revenues by 24.4% QOQ to US$9.1million in 4Q2020.

Overall fleet utilization for FY2020 was 63% which was similar to FY2019. Total Owned Vessel revenue for FY2020 was US$33.8 million, a YOY decline of 18% compared to FY2019. However, the fleet streamlining and cost control measures implemented by management for the past year have borne fruit as reflected in a 23% decline in Owned vessel direct expenses at US$ 34.0 million. Vessel sales over the past year and asset impairment contributed to lower depreciation of US$14.8 million in FY2020 compared to US$23.4 million in FY2019. Crew costs were 10% lower YOY at US$9.0 million while fuel costs fell 22% YOY to US$2.3 million. Operational costs, however, increased 21% YOY to US$4.9 million primarily due to COVID-19 related costs and mooring costs when the vessel is idle.

–Chartering and Other Services

Chartering activity was affected by COVID-19 and revenue for this division declined by 34% to US$7.4 million. Gross Profit from Chartering fell to US$0.7 million for FY2020 compared to US$1.2 million in FY2019.

–Indirect Expenses and Operating Loss

Indirect Expenses declined by 23% YOY to US$5.8 million for FY2020, largely contributed by a lower headcount of 141 at the end of December 2020 compared to 172 staff the year before, and a voluntary salary reduction led by the Directors of the Company and supported by the participation of all employees to help the Company through the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff salary was 20% YOY lower at US$3.6 million compared to US$4.5 million in the previous year. Other reductions were seen in Professional fees which fell by 38% to US$0.4 million, marketing and travelling which fell by 68% and 54% respectively due to the travel restrictions imposed for COVID-19. Office depreciation fell by 53% to US$0.14 million as certain equipment was fully depreciated.

The Operating Loss nearly halved to US$4.7 million for FY2020 compared to US$8.8 million in FY2019.

–Other Income, Expenses and Net Attributable profit

As the Company has reduced overall bank debt by US$8.5 million to US$46.1 million by end of December 2020, the interest expenses saw a sharp decline of 26% YOY to US$3.5 million. However, this was offset by a loss from equity in associates of US$1.6 million for the year compared to a profit of US$1 million in FY2019. Profit from sale of fixed assets was US$1 million, arising from the sale of 5 vessels and a building in 2020. This was lower than the profit of US$2.2 million from the sale of 5 vessels in FY2019.

Net loss attributable to shareholders narrowed by 7.4% to US$12.3 million for FY2020, compared to a net loss of US$13.3 million in FY2019.

EBITDA for FY2020 was US$10.3 million, compared to US$14.9 million booked in FY2019.

–Oil & Gas Industry

COVID-19’s disruptive effect on the world in 2020 caused an unprecedented impact on oil demand. Traffic literally came to a standstill in 2Q2020 when most countries restricted travel and movement to stop the transmission of COVID19. As a result, there was demand destruction of 9.9 million bpd of oil in 2020, or about 10% of global output, causing inventory buildup and dampening oil prices.

Investment in upstream oil and gas, which had already seen a multi-year decline, continued to fall further by 20%, in 2020 as seen in the above chart.

Now that most major countries are targeting to reach a 50% vaccination rate by end of 2021, oil demand has picked up as economies started to open up in 2H2020. The global economic recovery resulted in most of the crude oil inventory being drawn down, bringing a balance to the supply and demand for oil again. Oil prices are expected to trend higher as oil demand will benefit from economic recovery in many major world economies in 2H2021 and 2022.

–Offshore Vessels

COVID-19’s disruptive effect on the world in 2020 caused an unprecedented impact to oil demand. Traffic literally came to a standstill in 2Q2020 when most countries restricted travel and movement to stop the transmission of COVID-19. As a result, there was demand destruction of 9.9 million bpd of oil in 2020, or about 10% of global output, causing inventory buildup and dampening oil prices.

Investment in upstream oil and gas, which had already seen a multi-year decline, continued to fall further by 20%, in 2020 as seen in the above chart.

Now that most major countries are targeting to reach a 50% vaccination rate by end of 2021, oil demand has picked up as economies started to open up in 2H2020. The global economic recovery resulted in most of the crude oil inventory being drawn down, bringing a balance to the supply and demand for oil again. Oil prices are expected to trend higher as oil demand will benefit from economic recovery in many major world economies in 2H2021 and 2022.

–Offshore Vessels

Last year at this time, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the seeds of optimism in the offshore vessel industry and caused suspension and even terminations in drilling projects. As the outlook for oil prices improves, the demand for offshore vessels is also starting to recover, with more tenders and projects in the pipeline. Rystad Energy is projecting a recovery in offshore capex starting in 2022 as seen in the chart below. This would bode well for the OSV industry which is starting to benefit from more work, albeit still relatively short term. With stronger oil prices, there is already a recovery in offshore drilling so far in 2021 with more demand for higher tier vessels in various markets. Some high tier vessels which had been seized by banks are being transacted in the first quarter of 2021, signalling optimism in the OSV industry after many years of downturn.

–Strategy and Outlook

There are more signs of OSV industry recovery, not just due to a turnaround in the oil and gas sector, but also due to increased investment in offshore windfarms. There have been several drilling projects due to start in Indonesia which were delayed due to various factors like rig repair or inability to secure suitable vessels, proving that specific vessel segments are already seeing good demand. Although 2021 is likely to see some volatility and charter rates are still low, the trend for OSV demand looks positive. Management is optimistic that 2022 will be a better year and are positioning to tender for contracts in several markets. The Company has also started to work in the offshore wind industry for the first time with a short contract to transport monopiles for wind turbine construction.

The streamlining of the Company’s fleet by selling out of low tier vessels has led to a lower cost structure as the focus is now on mid and high tier vessels which comprise 73% and 22% of our fleet at the end of 2020. Other initiatives to digitalise our internal HR and Logistics procedures through digital processes were accelerated by the pandemic last year. This has already resulted in operational efficiencies and a reduction of paper use, and lower travelling costs as virtual meetings and vessel inspections became the new normal.

After paying down US$8.5 million of debt over the past year, the Company ends 2020 with a healthy balance sheet with low net debt/equity of 35%. Management has successfully negotiated to extend loan maturities until 2025, which provides a comfortable cash flow profile for the coming years. With the emphasis on keeping up the quality of services and fleet, Wintermar is poised to take a strong position in the coming industry recovery.

Contracts on hand as of the end of February 2021 amount to US$66 million.

About Wintermar Offshore Marine Group

Wintermar Offshore Marine Group (WINS.JK), developed over nearly 50 years with a track record of quality that is both a source of pride and responsibility that we are dedicated to upholding, and sails a fleet of more than 48 Offshore Support Vessels ready for long term as well as spot charters. All vessels are operated by an experienced Indonesian crew, tracked by satellite systems and monitored in real-time by shore-based Vessel Teams.

Wintermar is the first shipping company in Indonesia to be certified with an Integrated Management System by Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance, and is currently certified with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality), ISO14001:2015 (Environment) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Occupational Health and Safety). For more information, please visit www.wintermar.com.

Ms. Pek Swan Layanto, CFA
Investor Relations
PT Wintermar Offshore Marine Tbk
Tel +62-21 530 5201 Ext 401
Email: investor_relations@wintermar.com

The Great Outdoors RV Announces Partnership with Top Off-grid Manufacturer Taxa Outdoors

The Great Outdoors RV (TGORV), with its stunning displays, rustic charm, and state-of-the-art, fifteen-acre facility since its move in July of 2020, has announced a truly unique experience for the avid outdoor enthusiast. The dealership will feature three new mobile habitats that focus on multi-purpose, high performance and bringing the outdoors in: Cricket, Mantis, and TigerMoth – designed by award-winning former NASA senior architect, Garrett Finney.

“We’re proud to partner with TAXA here at The Great Outdoors,” says Matt Brown, General Manager of TGORV. “We’ve found the perfect complement to our vision for the Colorado camper: an unparalleled product and build, and an unforgettable experience unlike any other, which is the very thing we’ve seen emanate from TAXA Outdoors and its team. These habitats are just super cool, and you have to see them to appreciate all they will allow you to do. We’ve found a product that allows the true off-grid enthusiast to take off-road, and truly get lost in the great outdoors. Out is in(TM), and TAXA is as Colorado as it gets.”

Speaking further of the TAXA announcement, Kyle Ellinger, Sales Manager of TGORV, speaks to the quality of the product. “This is a product that is designed to maximize efficiency. Everything TAXA has produced doesn’t fit into any category of the RV market and we can’t wait to show Colorado just how remote and off the grid RVing is about to get.”

“TAXA is excited to have a true partner in the Colorado region that embodies the TAXA values of quality, customer-focused service and a love of the outdoors. Our TAXA customers in Colorado will have an excellent resource for all their TAXA needs with TGORV’s highly rated service and sales center,” said Divya Brown, TAXA Outdoors President.

The Great Outdoors RV is based in Greeley, Colorado. For more information, visit www.tgorv.com.

About The Great Outdoors RV

Providing a unique experience for the RV enthusiast, The Great Outdoors RV is a locally-owned RV retailer based in Greeley, Colorado. In business for fifteen years, TGORV has built a fast-growing company out of a passion for quality products and exceptional service, and their customers one happy camper at a time. The company’s mission is founded on the concept of doing right, by doing good; they strive to serve in each opportunity they are afforded and honor the contributions of their team members and the loyalty of their customers. For more information, visit ww.tgorv.com.

About TAXA Outdoors

TAXA Outdoors is an outdoor lifestyle company formed to design and manufacture high-performance adventure equipment that helps people reach their goal of connecting with the outdoors. Its products are crafted by hand in Houston, TX from durable, premium, eco-friendly, high-performance material. TAXA’s habitats are designed to make camping fun, comfortable, and secure. TAXA Outdoors attracts a diverse demographic including RV users, but primarily those who love camping and the outdoors but require more than a tent. For more information, visit www.taxaoutdoors.com.

Media Contact:
The Great Outdoors RV
Matt Brown
Email: mbrown@tgorv.com
Website: https://www.tgorv.com

SOURCE: The Great Outdoors RV