CBL International Limited(NASDAQ: BANL) (the Company or CBL), the listing vehicle of the Banle Group (Banle or the Group) is honored to announce that Dr. Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CBL International Limited, has been selected as an Awardee in the Directors of the Year Awards – Listed Companies Executive Directors category, presented by the Hong Kong Institute of Directors (HKIoD).
This esteemed accolade follows a comprehensive evaluation by an independent panel of judges comprising senior business leaders, governance experts, and institutional investors. The award recognizes Dr. Chia’s outstanding contributions to corporate governance, exemplary board leadership, and his proven track record in driving sustainable value creation for shareholders and stakeholders.
The HKIoD Directors of the Year Awards are among Asia’s most respected honors in corporate governance. Awardees are chosen based on demonstrated excellence in strategic oversight, ethical leadership, transparency, and long-term sustainable performance—all hallmarks of Dr. Chia’s tenure at CBL International. As Chairman and CEO, Dr. Chia has led the Group through a period of transformative growth while embedding governance excellence into the company’s core. Under his stewardship, CBL has strengthened its investor relations framework, enhanced ESG disclosures, deepened stakeholder engagement, and maintained rigorous compliance with international standards throughout its expansion across Asia Pacific, Europe, Central America and Africa.
In accepting the award, Dr. Teck Lim Chia said: “I am deeply humbled and grateful to receive this prestigious recognition from the Hong Kong Institute of Directors. This honor belongs not to me alone, but to our entire board, management team, and employees who share a relentless commitment to integrity, innovation, and responsible growth. At CBL, we believe governance is not a box to check — it is the compass that guides every decision. I will continue to lead with purpose, accountability, and vision, always placing the long-term interests of our stakeholders first.”
The Board of CBL International expressed its pride in Dr. Chia’s achievement: “Dr. Chia’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping CBL into a globally recognized, governance-forward enterprise. His ability to balance strategic ambition with disciplined oversight exemplifies what modern corporate leadership should be. We congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.”
Photo caption: Dr. Teck Lim Chia (right), Chairman and CEO of CBL International Limited, honored at the Directors of the Year Awards – Listed Companies Executive Directors category by the Hong Kong Institute of Directors (HKIoD).
Photo caption: The trophy for Directors of the Year Awards – Listed Companies Executive Directors category by the Hong Kong Institute of Directors (HKIoD).
About the Banle Group CBL International Limited (Nasdaq: BANL) is the listing vehicle of Banle Group, a reputable marine fuel logistics company based in the Asia Pacific region that was established in 2015. We are committed to providing customers with a one-stop solution for vessel refueling, which is referred to as bunkering facilitator in the bunkering industry. We facilitate vessel refueling mainly through local physical suppliers in 65 major ports covering Belgium, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Panama, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam. The Group actively promotes the use of sustainable fuels and has been awarded the ISCC EU and ISCC Plus certifications.
– Driving IP financing and innovation connectivity to support enterprise expansion across the GBA and global markets
BIP Asia Forum welcomed over 3,300 participants, with the Forum’s first-ever “IP Go-Global Business Matching Session” supporting international expansion of Mainland enterprises.
Entrepreneur Day attracted over 12,000 visits, facilitating more than 350 business matching meetings to help start-ups and SMEs unlock new market opportunities
The 15th Business of IP Asia Forum (BIP Asia Forum), jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council(HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, and the 17th Entrepreneur Day (E-Day), hosted by the HKTDC, concluded on 5 December 2025.
Held concurrently on 4 to 5 December, these two flagship events connected leading IP experts and business leaders from around the world, including Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, ASEAN and global markets. Through a diverse range of activities, the events examined how IP can drive business expansion, unlock new financing opportunities, and support start-ups in identifying investors and accessing new markets. This year, BIP Asia Forum welcomed over 3,300 attendees, while E-Day recorded over 12,000 visits. More than 350 business matching sessions were successfully arranged, helping solidify Hong Kong’s position as a regional IP trading centre and an international innovation and technology hub.
BIP Asia Forum unlocks the value of IP With a global intangible asset value estimated at USD 80 trillion, IP is increasingly recognised as a powerful engine for accessing capital and scaling business growth. BIP Asia Forum explored a range of topics, including IP Valuation and Financing, to examine how enterprises can leverage IP as collateral to secure funding. During the session, Lewis Lee, Founder & CEO of Moat Metrics said, “Never before have we been in a place where we are very close to being able to assess IP value in a systematic and high-fidelity manner. The advances in AI and data in the last 12 months have accelerated the development of this framework. I encourage the industry to continue pushing forward.”
The plenary session “Propelling Sustainability with IP” examined how enterprises can leverage IP to strengthen their competitive edge amid the global shifts toward green transition and sustainability. As Krishna Singhania, Senior Intellectual Property Counsel of Maersk said, “Discarding the legacy model of ‘IP is mine’ and instead embracing flexibility is how we make changes. Exploring different models including lead-partnership, field-of-use ownership, joint ownership and government-funded projects ensures and preserves the competitive edge of each partner’s core technology. Thus, we can meet our climate target of decarbonisation by 2040.”
To respond to growing demand from Mainland companies for overseas expansion, the Intellectual Property Department hosted a dedicated “IP Go-Global Business Matching Session” during the Forum. Local professional service providers, IP lawyers, and specialists offered one-on-one consultations covering IP registration strategies, application procedures, and patent claims drafting. Zoe Fang, CEO of participated mainland enterprise Sichuan HangWan Cultural Communication Co. Ltd said: “To align with our national ‘Go Global’ strategy, we will leverage Hong Kong’s international legal services to address practical cross-border IP issues by participating in the matching session. We plan to utilise Hong Kong’s professional services to outline our patent registration and market expansion strategies, and to develop actionable plans for entering international markets.”
Another participant from the Middle East, Founder and CEO of Voithy Tech Limited, Mohamed Orikat said: “Hong Kong serves as a crucial bridge to Chinese Mainland and APEC markets. At BIP Asia, we received professional advice on patent registration, litigation in Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland, and company establishment in Hong Kong, which has provided us significant insights and assistance to our plan in expanding into the Asian market.”
E-Day ignites start-up innovation: connecting capital, markets and partnersE-Day returned under the theme “Where Start-up Dreams Take Flight” and offered a wide range of exhibitions, conferences, roundtable discussion and matchmaking opportunities tailored for start-ups and SMEs. This year, the event showcased over 360 start-ups, invention projects and support organisations across AI, health tech, cybersecurity, construction & logistics tech, spatial computing, and sustainability.
During the business matching session, Dr.Ammar Mohammed Al Ojaili, Vice President of R&D and Innovation at global integrated energy group OQ, founded in Oman, said: “Hong Kong and the South China region are important markets for us. Events like Entrepreneur Day bring together startups, universities, and industry players all in one place, making it easier for companies like ours to discover innovative technologies and explore collaboration opportunities.”
The session “T-Chat: From Labs to Battlefield: Navigating Deep Tech Commercialisation and Global Scale” invited leaders from global innovation community, university knowledge transfer centre, venture capital firm, start-up founder and research institution to explore how deep tech innovators can leverage capital, partnerships, and international networks to accelerate commercialisation. YeYe Xiao, Innovation Consulting Manager & Central Asia Lead at Hello Tomorrow, who works in deep tech, said: “Entrepreneur Day emphasises Hong Kong as an I&T hub. It’s a great opportunity to gather stakeholders from all over the world once a year. The quality of the startups here are high, and people are doing very deep technologies.”
Other speakers shared how Entrepreneur Day brings business opportunities and collaboration to the industry. Martin Chu, CEO & Co-founder of i2COOL Limited, speaker of GBA Tripartite Roundtable: “Empowering GBA Startups to Expand into ASEAN with Hong Kong as a Super-connector and Super Value-adder”, remarked: “The cross-border collaborations brought by Entrepreneur Day are very important for a startup. Because Hong Kong is a super connector for different industries and different markets, we get to know what they need, and then fine tune our technology. I think the situation is applicable to most of the new technologies invented in Chinese Mainland as well.”
In addition, the HKTDC signed Memoranda of Understanding with the Junior Chamber International Hong Kong (JCIHK) and France-based Hello Tomorrow to deepen collaboration on supporting local SMEs, young entrepreneurs, and start-ups in expanding into international markets, providing mentorship, pitching opportunities and access to investors around the globe
“Start-up Express International” connects global innovators with Hong Kong and GBA opportunities “Start-up Express International” continued to attract global founders exploring Hong Kong as a base for expansion into Asia and the Greater Bay Area, covering innovative fields such as green tech, health tech, AI, edtech, and more.
During the “Meet the Global Start-ups” session, participants shared insights on technology development, IP strategies, market expansion, and cross-border collaboration. They also discussed strategies for setting up in Hong Kong and entering the Greater Bay Area market with local investors, enterprises, and supporting organisations. Speakers highlighted that Hong Kong is an innovation and technology hub in the region, where companies can leverage the city as a testing ground to validate business models and use it as a springboard to tap into the Greater China market and beyond.
Video replays of BIP Asia Forum events, including highlights of the exhibition and forums, will be available from 8 December 2025 to 7 January 2026. Replays of E-Day events will be uploaded after 5th of January 2026.
*Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to this project only, and has otherwise no involvement in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/event (or by members of the project team) do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Creative Industries Development Office, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat, or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
About the HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
BIP Asia Forum and Entrepreneur Day bring over 180 speakers and more than 420 exhibitors
BIP Asia Forum spotlights IP financing and launches a new IP Go-Global Business Matching Session offering up-to-date information and professional support for Mainland enterprises
Entrepreneur Day showcases innovative solutions across AI, healthtech, cybersecurity, construction & logistics, spatial computing, and sustainability
“Start-up Express International” global start-ups share entrepreneurial journeys and opportunities
The 15th Business of IP Asia Forum (BIP Asia Forum), jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government), together with the 17th Entrepreneur Day(E-Day), hosted by the HKTDC, opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The two flagship annual events bring together over 180 speakers and more than 420 start-ups, innovative projects and start-up support organisations, offering a strong line-up of programmes designed to advance the exchange and application of innovation and technology (I&T) and intellectual property (IP). The events further reinforce Hong Kong’s role as a super-connector and value-adder to strengthen regional and global collaboration.
Sophia Chong, HKTDC Executive Director and David Wong, HKSAR Government Director of Intellectual Property, officiated the opening session this morning and delivered remarks.
Sophia Chong said: “Fostering collaboration and partnerships – that is something we at the HKTDC care about deeply, to help those seeking to grow and thrive. At the BIP Asia 2025, we endeavour to do just that.” She added: “Robust IP protection encourages investment in R&D and commercialisation of new ideas. Multi-stakeholder collaboration – across government, industry, academia and more – also helps translate IP into measurable economic impact. Hong Kong – as a regional centre for IP trading and an international hub for innovation and technology – is taking the lead in supporting the sustainability of this vital sector. Over the next two days, BIP Asia will explore a variety of areas, including financing, sustainability, creativity, licensing and more, highlighting the integral role of IP in driving business growth, and helping companies identify and capture valuable opportunities.”
Exploring IP financing and global trends This year’s Forum, themed “Leverage IP to Finance Business Growth”, examines IP’s role as a core driver of sustainable expansion. The keynote session, “IP Valuation and Financing”, features Lewis C Lee, Founder and CEO of Moat Metrics, Inc.; Terence Koh, Managing Director and Head of Telecommunications, Media and Technology at United Overseas Bank Limited; and Sung-tae Ha, Director of IP, Valuation and Management Center of Korea Invention Promotion Association. Speakers shared insights into how enterprises can leverage IP assets as a source of capital.
The day’s plenary session, “Propelling Sustainability with IP”, brings together Dr Lorenz Kaiser, Senior Counsel, GE Aerospace; Krishna Singhania, Senior IP Counsel at Maersk; and Dr Pratheeba Vimalnath, Lecturer in Innovation, Intellectual Property and Sustainability, University of Exeter Business School, UK. The speakers will explore how companies can strategically deploy intellectual property to achieve sustainability goals and accelerate industrial standardisation.
Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR, Li Shengjun, Deputy Head of the Patent Office of the China National Intellectual Property Administration, and Wang Binying, Deputy Director General, World Intellectual Property Organization, delivered speeches in the afternoon.
Secretary Yau shared with the participants HKSAR’s efforts to strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a regional IP trading centre. He said: “Our patent examiner team is expanding and we are taking forward the preparatory work for introduction of regulatory arrangement for local patent agent services; our Copyright Ordinance and registered designs regime will be modernised to ensure our legal framework is fit for the digital age; and finally, we are creating the deal flow by arranging business-matching programme connecting Mainland enterprises with Hong Kong’s world-class IP service providers to embody our “bringing in and going global” strategy.” He emphasised that the Hong Kong Technology and Innovation Support Centre helps innovators create quality assets; the patent valuation subsidy scheme helps establish patents’ technical and economic worth; the legal reforms provide the certainty. Business matching and regional partnerships generate the opportunities. And the “IP financing sandbox” turns it all into financeable, scalable reality.
Strengthening Go-Global strategies for Mainland enterprises Co-organised with the Guangdong Administration for Market Regulation, the afternoon session, titled “Cross-Border Empowerment: Forging a New IP-Driven Investment Ecosystem in the Greater Bay Area”, focuses on regional collaboration, cross-border IP protection and financing strategies to help enterprises scale from the GBA to global markets. Tomorrow morning’s session, “Brand Global Gateway – WIPO’s Services Empowering Global Brand Value”, co-organised with World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the HKSAR Intellectual Property Department, will discuss how enterprises can use international IP services to enhance global brand competitiveness and accelerate overseas expansion.
For the first time, the Forum will introduce an “IP Go-Global Business Matching Session”, allowing local professional service providers and IP lawyers to offer one-on-one consultations to Mainland enterprises. These consultations cover trademark and patent registration, enforcement, litigation, international licensing and dispute resolution, helping businesses develop effective go-global strategies.
Tomorrow’s highlights include “Cross-border Transactions in Digital Culture and Protection of Intellectual Property”, where the Zhejiang Culture Assets and Equity Exchange will share how Mainland policies and regulations support protection for and commercialisation of digital cultural IP including online literature, online games and online dramas. Ant Group Jingtan and HashKey Group will share insights on real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation, blockchain-enabled rights certification, and on how these technologies enhance transparency, liquidity, and cross-border circulation of cultural IP to drive cultural diversity, inclusion, and go-global.
The onsite showcase area of Asia IP Exchange (AsiaIPEX) Creative Hub will be set up to display local creative IP. Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency*, AsiaIPEX Creative Hub is a free online IP platform and database that showcases local IP across publishing, film, characters and design to connect creators and IP users globally.
The Innovation & IP Market, themed “Smart Living”, features over 25 I&T projects from universities, R&D centres, start-ups and tech companies.
E-Day ignites innovation and connects start-ups with global opportunities This year’s E-Day continues with the theme “Where Start-up Dreams Take Flight”, bringing together over 360 start-ups, inventor projects and support organisations from 11 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, France and Thailand. Exhibits span six major tech categories: AI, healthtech, cybersecurity, construction & logistics, spatial computing, and sustainability. A wide range of exhibitions, business matching activities and seminars help founders connect with investors and partners.
E-Day spotlights three key exhibition zones: the “Start-up and Innovation Zone”, the “University Spin-off”, and “The Boosters”. Within the Start-up and Innovation Zone, Digital Policy Office once again features the “Innovation Hong Kong Pavilion”, showcasing 30 innovation and technology projects that highlight Hong Kong’s cutting-edge innovation and technological excellence. The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau presents over 40 start-ups and Greater Bay Area partners, and hosts the “Symposium of Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Greater Bay Area” to introduce opportunities, support measures, and successful cases of starting businesses in the GBA. In addition, the 5th Asia Exhibition of Innovations and Inventions Hong Kong displays more than 130 inventions. Experts and inventors from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland and Thailand showcases their breakthrough and diverse solutions across multiple fields.
“University Spin-off” brings together top research and innovation projects from nine local universities, showcasing the strong momentum in research commercialisation. “The Boosters” features a comprehensive range of service providers, including innovation and technology parks, professional accountants, and company registration and corporate service firms, which offer one-stop support for start-ups and demonstrating the collective commitment of the Government, academia and industry to nurturing a robust start-up ecosystem. Twenty winners and finalists from local and international editions of Start-up Express 2025 will also exhibit onsite, presenting their innovative products and solutions.
Opening day also features “T-Chat: From Labs to Battlefield: Navigating Deep Tech Commercialisation and Global Scale”. Speakers include Yeye Xiao, Innovation Consulting Manager & Central Asia Lead of Hello Tomorrow; Dr Paul Wang, Director of the Techno-Entrepreneurship Core at The University of Hong Kong; Edith Yeung, General Partner at Race Capital; Kenny Oktavius, Co-founder & CEO of PointFit Technology; and Dr Alan Cheung, Chief Director, Artificial Intelligence and Trust Technologies of the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited, will discuss how deep-tech founders can access capital, partnerships and global networks. Yeye Xiao said: “The biggest mistake Deep Tech founders make is falling in love only with their technologies and forgetting commercialisation from day one. Think ‘Design for X’ from the very beginning: design for manufacturing, supply chain, testing, and scaling. Also, leverage public ecosystems and free infrastructure instead of spending everything on private labs. Successful Deep Tech companies plan for industrial-scale production and customer integration while they are still in the lab.”
The GBA Tripartite Roundtable: “Empowering GBA Startups to Expand into ASEAN with Hong Kong as a Super-connector and Super Value-adder” explores opportunities for Greater Bay Area start-ups to tap into ASEAN and global markets. Speakers discuss how Hong Kong can leverage its dual role as a super-connector and super value-adder to accelerate cross-border innovation collaboration and market expansion. The roundtable features insights from Intan Zalani, the Consul (Trade) of Malaysia in Hong Kong; Ms Ponpicha Pethkaewkul, Senior Innovation Counsellor, National Innovation Agency, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (Thailand); Peter Mok, General Manager of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub; Stephen Chan, Partner of Charles Russell Speechlys LLP; and Prof Martin Chu, CEO & Co-founder, i2COOL Limited, who will offer perspectives from government, incubators, the legal profession and startup founders on how Hong Kong can support GBA start-ups in going global.
Intan Zalani said: “Beyond semiconductors and manufacturing, exciting opportunities await GBA startups in Malaysia’s fast-evolving digital payments landscape, where multiple e-wallets and QR-code payments have largely replaced cash, as well as in renewable energy, especially solar and biomass. The government offers attractive tax incentives for green technology investments. With Malaysia’s strategic position as ASEAN’s natural hub and Hong Kong’s role as super-connector, there is indeed a slice of the pie for everyone. We warmly invite Greater Bay Area entrepreneurs to partner with us, establish presence in Malaysia, and together capture the US$1 trillion ASEAN digital economy opportunity by 2030.”
Global Start-ups take the stage at “Start-up Express International” This year’s “Start-up Express International” brings together ten quality start-ups across the globe, covering green tech, healthtech, AI, edtech and more—demonstrating Hong Kong’s attractiveness as an international launchpad. The international start-ups will share their entrepreneurial journeys and exchange insights with panel speakers from Cyberport, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, and InvestHK, exploring opportunities in Hong Kong and the GBA. A seminar titled “Crafting the Next-Gen Wardrobe: Innovation for a Sustainable Future” brings together leading experts in sustainable fashion to explore how innovative technologies are driving the integration of TechStyle and sustainability. Speakers will share insights on nature-inspired sustainable materials and intelligent textile technologies, with the goal of creating a fashion sector that seamlessly blends aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
Running concurrently from 3 to 6 December, DesignInspire presents works from leading local and international designers. Together, the three events create strong synergy and reinforce Hong Kong’s positioning as Asia’s hub for innovation and IP.
*Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
About the HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
– The partnership will equip Laser Digital with Solidus Labs’ advanced detection capabilities to monitor trading behavior across exchanges, OTC markets, and DeFi venues – Backed by Nomura, Laser Digital was recently licensed by VARA under its Pilot Framework to offer OTC crypto derivatives
Laser Digital, the digital asset subsidiary of Nomura Group, and Solidus Labs, the category-definer for crypto-native trade surveillance and risk monitoring, today announced a partnership to deliver crypto-native on-chain and off-chain market surveillance.
Under this partnership, Solidus Labs will equip Laser Digital with advanced detection capabilities that monitor trading behavior across exchanges, OTC markets, and DeFi venues – reinforcing Laser Digital’s risk and compliance operations and supporting evolving regulatory expectations across jurisdictions.
Backed by Nomura, one of the world’s largest financial institutions, Laser Digital was established as a full-service digital asset firm to bring TradFi practices to crypto markets. The firm combines higher governance standards and risk management with crypto-native expertise, to manage institutional exposure to the digital asset ecosystem.
Speaking on the partnership, Dr. Jez Mohideen, Co-founder and CEO of Laser Digital, said, “Solidus Labs emerged as a suitable partner for us given their expertise in trade surveillance and deep understanding of digital assets. Their on-and off-chain detection capabilities, combined with an intelligence-driven platform, offer advanced safeguards that are critical to enabling secure institutional access to the on-chain ecosystem.”
Asaf Meir, Founder & CEO of Solidus Labs, added, “We are proud to partner with Laser Digital, a firm that is laser-focused on redefining the frontier of digital finance. 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year, bridging traditional finance and digital assets – and Laser Digital is at the forefront of that evolution. Solidus is the only provider able to support the advanced DeFi activities Laser is pursuing, and together we are helping set the gold standard for crypto-native market integrity.”
In August 2025, Laser Digital announced that it had become the first regulated entity under Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority’s (VARA) Pilot Framework to offer OTC crypto options, underscoring its commitment to offering structured solutions in regulated markets.
About Solidus Labs Solidus Labs is the category-definer for Agentic-Based Compliance in trade surveillance and risk monitoring. Founded in 2018 by Goldman Sachs veterans, the company merges Wall Street rigor, crypto-native innovation, and cybersecurity principles to reinvent compliance for the modern financial era. At the core is HALO, an AI-powered risk-based platform trusted by financial institutions, crypto firms, and regulators globally to drive proactive, intelligence-led oversight – across any product, venue, or asset class. www.soliduslabs.com
Contact: Trevor Davis Gregory FCA for Solidus Labs 443.248.0359 trevor@gregoryfca.com
About Laser Digital Laser Digital is a full-service digital asset firm specializing in Trading, Asset Management, Solutions, and Early-Stage Investing. Nomura established Laser Digital to provide new value in digital assets to its clients, bridging traditional and crypto markets. We are positioned uniquely in the market, combining institutional- grade framework and risk management. For more information, please visit: www.laserdigital.com For partnership inquiries: inquiries@laserdigital.com For media inquiries: media@laserdigital.com
Legal Disclaimer This is a marketing communication intended for professional investors in eligible jurisdictions only. It does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Forecasts are not reliable indicators of future performance. Capital is at risk. Please consult the relevant offering documentation before making any investment decisions.
Judges Continue to Side with Energy Enhancement System as Jason Shurka’s Legal Maneuvers Collapse
Energy Enhancement System, LLC (EES) has achieved another decisive victory in its ongoing effort to defend truth, innovation, and integrity against baseless attacks from Jason Shurka and The Light System, Inc. (“TLS”).
The United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York has formally granted EES permission to move forward with its full motion to dismiss – a strong indication that the court recognizes the legal and factual strength of EES’s position. Judges in multiple jurisdictions have now described Shurka’s filings as “baseless” and “futile,” repeatedly returning the cases to the very courts where EES first initiated them – and where EES continues to win.
Truth Over Deception
The latest decision follows months of extensive filings exposing what EES alleges was a coordinated campaign of misinformation and brand confusion.
Court records show that Shurka, once briefly involved in limited marketing activities with EES, launched a competing venture falsely implying that his product was identical to or derived from the original EESystem technology.
EES’s lawsuits in Nevada and New York detail how Shurka and TLS misrepresented their affiliation, misused EES’s intellectual property, and exploited public imagery and research to promote their imitation product. These filings cite violations under the Lanham Act (15 U.S.C. § 1125) and the Nevada Deceptive Trade Practices Act, among others.
“This is not about competition; it’s about protecting decades of honest work and innovation,” said Hon. Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, DNM, DCSJ, founder and inventor of the EESystem.”I began developing this technology in 1978 – long before these individuals appeared. We will continue to safeguard our legacy of integrity and ensure that truth, not falsehood, guides our community.“
The court’s decision authorizes EESystem to maintain course and proceed with its full motion to dismiss – a clear reaffirmation that authenticity and integrity prevail.
“Every decision in our favor strengthens our evidence and unites our global centers even further,” added Mela Bertolacini, daughter of Sandra Rose Michael and EESystem spokesperson.
A Legacy of Authentic Innovation For nearly five decades, Hon. Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, DNM, DCSJ, has guided the development of the Energy Enhancement System (EESystem) – a technology exploring how scalar-field and photonic energy environments interact with the human system.
Energy Enhancement System, with hundreds of public centers across the globe, is recognized for its distinctive integration of research, engineering precision, and educational outreach.
From its Nevada headquarters, Energy Enhancement System, LLC advances research and design in emerging energy sciences, fostering environments that encourage relaxation, coherence, and scientific curiosity. Since 1978, Dr. Michael’s work has emphasized innovation with integrity and the pursuit of deeper understanding at the intersection of science and consciousness.
About Energy Enhancement System (EESystem)
Founded by Hon. Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, DNM, DCSJ, Energy Enhancement System, LLC is a Nevada-based research and technology company dedicated to the responsible exploration of scalar-field and photonic energy phenomena. The company’s mission is to promote transparency, education, and the ongoing study of coherence-based environments in collaboration with scientists, practitioners, and community centers worldwide.
For transparency and public verification, case details are available through official court dockets: Energy Enhancement System, LLC v. Shurka et al., Case No. A-25-910216-B (Clark County District Court, Nevada); 2:2025cv00633 (U.S. District Court, District of Nevada); 1:25-cv-00218 / 1:25-cv-20981 (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida); and 2:25-cv-01234 (U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York).
Today, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia solidified its global leadership in public financial auditing and accounting by winning the chairmanship of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). The announcement was made during the 25th General Assembly of INTOSAI, held in Sharm El-Sheikh under the patronage of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia Assumes Chairmanship of INTOSAI
The General Assembly declared Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Court of Audit (GCA), as the Chair of INTOSAI starting in 2031 for a three-year term. Saudi Arabia will host delegations from over 195 countries, led by the heads of Supreme Audit Institutions, assuming leadership of the world’s foremost organization in financial and performance auditing. This role positions Saudi Arabia to steer global efforts in enhancing transparency, public sector governance, and government performance, while reinforcing public trust in national economies.
On this occasion, His Excellency Dr. Hussam Alangari, President GCA, extended his congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, acknowledging their unwavering support and empowerment of GCA. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the Kingdom’s international standing and global trust, enabling it to play a pivotal role in advancing auditing and accountability worldwide. Dr. Alangari highlighted the transformative developments in organizational independence, technical and human capacity, and methodological innovation that have enabled GCA to achieve its vision of impactful audit, public sector effectiveness, and quality of life for citizens. He added: “Saudi Arabia welcomes the world in 2031, and we look forward to hosting everyone in Riyadh to shape a global future that promotes transparency, governance, and governmental effectiveness.”
This milestone crowns decades of international engagement led by Saudi Arabia through GCA, starting with its early membership in INTOSAI in 1977. Saudi Arabia has consistently taken leadership roles in international and regional organizations, including serving as Chair of the Arab Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (ARABOSAI) for two consecutive terms since 2022, and the upcoming Chair of the Asian Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) starting in 2027. GCA has also led numerous INTOSAI committees and initiatives focused on capacity building and enhancing the efficiency of peer SAIs in developing countries, reflecting the Saudi Arabia commitment to advancing auditing and accountability globally.
Founded over seventy years ago, INTOSAI is the largest and most prestigious international organization uniting Supreme Audit Institutions worldwide. Today, it comprises over 195 member countries, each represented by its Supreme Audit Institution, working to enhance transparency, governance, and public sector auditing, with the ultimate goal of improving citizens’ lives around the world.
Contact Information General Court of Audit Media Center gca@gca.gov.sa 0114056770
Comprehensive updates improve asset protection, governance, and dispute resolution mechanisms
Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) has announced significant amendments to its Foundations Regulations 2019, which took effect on 31 July 2025. The changes represent one of the most substantial updates to the regime since its introduction, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a competitive jurisdiction for wealth structuring and long-term asset protection.
RAK ICC Foundations are widely recognized for their flexibility, confidentiality, and legal robustness, making them a preferred choice for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and family offices, both within the UAE and internationally. These structures are commonly used for succession planning, family governance, and consolidating diverse assets under a single legal entity.
The 2025 amendments introduce stronger legal safeguards and improved governance measures which include:
Firewall Provisions – Stronger protection from foreign judgments conflicting with RAK ICC Regulations.
Three-Year Statute of Limitations – Limits challenges to establishment or asset transfers to three years.
Cause of Action Provisions – Creditor fraud claims are limited to the specific asset involved and only if rendering the founder insolvent.
Duress and Officer Protections – Nullifies actions taken under foreign legal coercion, preserving internal governance autonomy of a foundation.
Strengthened Arbitration Framework – Disputes can be resolved privately with court-level powers.
Private Trustee Foundation Provisions – Clarifies asset segregation and fiduciary integrity for property held in trust by a foundation.
Assets held within RAK ICC Foundation will now benefit from enhanced firewall provisions, ensuring that foreign judgments conflicting with UAE law cannot be enforced against them. A new three-year limitation period has been established for challenging the formation of a foundation or the transfer of assets into it, providing greater certainty for founders and beneficiaries. The reforms also tighten creditor protection rules by requiring proof of insolvency in fraudulent transfer claims, with liability capped at the value of the disputed asset to prevent overreach into unrelated holdings.
In addition, the updated regulations address governance integrity and operational resilience. Officers of a foundation who receive foreign orders inconsistent with RAK ICC law are obligated to disregard them, thereby safeguarding the autonomy of the foundation’s decision-making. The framework now explicitly confirms that assets held in trust by a foundation are legally distinct and separate from foundation property, ensuring clear asset segregation. Dispute resolution has also been strengthened, with arbitration provisions expanded to grant tribunals court-like powers, enabling disputes to be resolved efficiently, confidentially, and in line with international best practices.
These changes are part of RAK ICC’s broader strategy to maintain a forward-looking legal and regulatory environment that meets global standards while catering to the specific needs of its client base. They reflect the jurisdiction’s commitment to supporting sophisticated wealth planning strategies that balance control, privacy, and long-term security.
By enhancing its Foundations regime, RAK ICC is cementing its position in the UAE as a trusted partner for those seeking secure, adaptable, and internationally compliant solutions for wealth preservation and intergenerational planning.
About RAK ICC Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a corporate registry based in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The organisation provides international business companies and foundations, typically used for private and business structuring, asset consolidation, and succession planning. To date, RAK ICC has incorporated thousands of international companies and supports multi-billion dirhams in structured assets. It serves high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses seeking flexible and secure solutions for long-term business and wealth management.
The SaaS platform streamlines risk assessment, data collection, and submissions for companies navigating EUDR compliance
SAN DIEGO, CA, July 22, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – Source Intelligence has launched its EUDR solution to help companies simplify deforestation risk management and automate compliance workflows ahead of upcoming enforcement deadlines. Purpose-built for the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), the SaaS-based solution enables businesses to streamline supply chain traceability, risk assessment, and due diligence reporting. As companies prepare for the regulation’s requirements, failure to comply could result in fines of up to 4% of annual turnover, making early action essential.
Source Intelligence Logo Source Intelligence’s logo and “Trust your source” tagline
Source Intelligence’s solution enables companies to implement an end-to-end EUDR due diligence workflow, from tracing product origins and validating supplier data to identifying deforestation risk and submitting due diligence statements. A direct integration with the EU TRACES platform allows Source Intelligence to submit statements on behalf of clients as an authorized representative, helping companies streamline final reporting requirements.
With Source Intelligence’s EUDR solution, companies can:
Enhance supply chain visibility by mapping sub-tier relationships and tracking sourcing activity in real time
Identify deforestation risks faster using Article 9-aligned scoring and multi-source environmental datasets
Improve efficiency through automation and a direct connection to EU TRACES
Reduce compliance risk by proactively flagging high-risk suppliers and sourcing areas using satellite imagery and customizable risk models
The platform’s satellite-powered deforestation detection tools assess land use change with precision and provide actionable insights for risk mitigation. These capabilities are bolstered by real-time data validation, customizable risk assessments, and centralized documentation-all designed to help companies operationalize the three-step due diligence process outlined by the European Commission.
“The EUDR requires companies to reach deeper into their supply chains, gather more specific data, and act on risk with greater speed,” said Mike Flynn, Chief Product Officer at Source Intelligence. “Our solution is designed to make that process manageable-combining automation, advanced risk screening, and satellite monitoring to help businesses take control of their due diligence obligations before enforcement begins.”
While the EUDR is already in force, operators and traders must fully implement the required due diligence process by December 30, 2025. Micro and small enterprises have until June 30, 2026. With deadlines fast approaching, Source Intelligence offers a streamlined path to readiness. Interested organizations are invited to schedule a demo and experience the advanced EUDR solution firsthand.
About Source Intelligence
Source Intelligence is the leading provider of AI-driven supply chain compliance and sustainability software. Built for mid-market and enterprise manufacturers, our configurable SaaS platform centralizes supply chain data, automates regulatory workflows, and scales with program maturity. Our software blends AI and in-house expert oversight to deliver efficiency without compromising accuracy. From product compliance and EPR to conflict minerals and component obsolescence, we help global compliance teams reduce risk, improve visibility, and meet evolving obligations with confidence. Learn more at www.sourceintelligence.com.
Strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a regional IP trading centre
The 35th HKTDCHong Kong Book Fair opened yesterday alongside the 8th HKTDCSports and Leisure Expo and the 5th HKTDCWorld of Snacks. The three events, which have attracted more than 770 exhibitors, are running until 22 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).
To reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a regional intellectual property (IP) trading centre, the HKTDC is hosting a series of onsite sales and cultural activities during the fairs. Notably, today’s IP Roundtable and International Publishing Forum provide a platform for industry professionals from 12 countries and regions to explore market trends and exchange insights. Both events are sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), attracting an audience of over 220 publishing professionals and enthusiasts and further strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a regional IP trading centre.
Organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Reprographic Rights Licensing Society (HKRRLS), the IP Roundtable ran under the theme “A Forward-Looking Copyright Framework – How to Balance Interests Between Innovation and IP Protection”, focusing on how different regions are developing forward-looking copyright frameworks in response to the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). This year’s event introduced a new business matching session that facilitated over 70 meetings to promote copyright trading and generate commercial opportunities for participants. The event opened with welcome remarks from Jenny Koo, Assistant Executive Director of the HKTDC, followed by opening remarks from Dr Sharon Wong, Executive Director, HKRRLS, who also moderated the discussion session.
The panel discussion featured five distinguished speakers from the UAE, Belgium, Singapore, Japan and the United Kingdom, including Majd Hassan Al Shehhi, Director of The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA); Sarah Tran, Head of Regional Policy and Public Affairs of the International Federation of Reproduction Rights Organisations (IFRRO); Andrew Fong, CEO of the Copyright Licensing and Administration Society of Singapore (CLASS); Toshimichi Ishijima, Secretary General of the Japan Academic Association for Copyright Clearance (JAC); and James Bennett, Head of Rightsholder Relations of The Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA).
Majd Hassan Al Shehhi, Director of ERRA, said: “The Hong Kong Book Fair brings together publishers from different places. Unlike other international book fairs that focus on B2B [business-to-business], the Hong Kong Book Fair serves as a B2C [business-to-consumer] platform. I am very happy to participate in the IP Roundtable as it provides an invaluable platform for industry professionals to gain insights into the publishing and IP sectors and explore new business opportunities.” She added that Hong Kong’s robust IP protection system and world-class professional services make the city well positioned to act as a regional IP trading centre, viewing it as a great example.
The HKTDC joined with the Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited to organise the International Publishing Forum today, running under the theme “AI and Publishing”. The event opened with remarks by Anita Wan, Convenor of the Book Fair Committee of the Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited. Featured speakers included Xin Guangwei, former Editor-in-Chief of People’s Publishing House; Qu Hongbin, Director and President of Guomai Culture Media Co., Ltd; and Wayne Press, Global Product Director of Oxford University Press. The Q&A session that followed, moderated by Chan Ka-yeung, Director of City University of Hong Kong Press, was lively and in-depth, exploring how the publishing industry can respond to the opportunities and challenges posed by AI.
Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
Media enquiries Hong Kong Book Fair, Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks Yuan Tung Financial Relations: Agnes Yiu Tel: (852) 3428 5690 Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk Salina Cheng Tel: (852) 3428 2362 Email: salcheng@yuantung.com.hk
Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department: Stanley So Tel: (852)2584 4049 Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.org Jane Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4137 Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit:www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
The Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (“ICDM” or “the Institute”) recently convened its 8th Annual General Meeting with key advancements signalling a decisive move forward in its mission to elevate corporate governance. In a bold continuation of its 2024 call for boards and directors to ‘step up or step out’ amidst a time of tremendous change and uncertainty, ICDM is embracing an ethos of ‘Being More’ by championing significant new initiatives. Among the pivotal developments highlighted at the AGM, ICDM is putting a strong emphasis on the upcoming launch of a national Professional Directors Certification Framework (“PDCF”) and the execution of the leadership transition.
These key steps forward underscore the Institute’s unwavering commitment to tangible and measurable stewardship, especially in applying the principles of good governance across their organisations. In their 2024 reflection, ICDM encouraged corporate directors to unlearn outdated mindsets, relearn what the future demands, and embrace innovation with courage and a relentless commitment to board excellence and their continuous development. To this end, ICDM’s efforts to professionalise directors and boards will be formalised via a framework that outlines clear standards and qualifications for directors and boards in the later part of 2025.
Michele Kythe Lim, President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) said, “The very future of an organisation depends on the precise and integral leadership of boards and directors. Therefore, they must champion governance, accountability, and performance standards with the same rigour they demand from the companies they oversee. As the national IoD, we are committed to these standards, a commitment proven by an independent Board and Director Effectiveness Evaluation (BDEE) of our own board, which reaffirmed our strengths. Our early structured succession plan further underscores our dedication to organisational growth and mission fulfilment and the Institute has put in place initiatives and achieved many milestones that have brought us to this point. I couldn’t be prouder of the team and am confident that in ICDM, soon to be under Jackie’s capable leadership and with the unwavering support of the board, we will continue to set the bar high.
These milestones and initiatives, highlighting ICDM’s robust growth, include:
Community Expansion: Grew to over 1,500 individual members and 127 corporate members, 64% of which represent public-listed companies (PLCs) with the remaining 36% from the private and public sectors.
Programme Delivery & Training: Delivered over 500 programmes and trained more than 30,000 directors, with increasing participation in development programmes like Aspiring Directors Immersion Programme (ADIP) and Leading for Impact (LIP).
Revenue Growth (2024 vs. 2023):
Overall Revenue: Increased by 53%.
Leading for Impact (LIP) Programme Revenue: Increased by 172%.
Membership and Director Sourcing Revenue: Increased by 52%.
Board Remuneration Reviews Revenue: Increased by 56%.
Bespoke Programmes Revenue: Increased by 24%.
Aspiring Directors Immersion Programme (ADIP) Revenue: Increased by 211%.
Directors Registry: Features 1,264 pre-screened, board-ready candidates.
Female Representation in Registry: Rose to 38% in 2024, a significant increase from 33% in 2023.
ICDM will launch the PDCF later this year – a structured, competency-based pathway for directors and for the industry and companies, globally aligned and with a benchmarked baseline qualification. This is in line with the roadmap set out by the Securities Commission Malaysia towards achieving a resilient and high-performing capital market. This national set of standards aims to significantly accelerate the growth of a diverse and qualified talent pool of directors across both public and private sectors and government-linked boards to help companies achieve optimal board composition from the start.
Jackie Mah, the current Executive Vice President and succeeding President and CEO of ICDM, said, “Now more than ever, companies, boards and directors are pressing for qualified leaders and peers who uphold uncompromising standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. Just as we hold employees of organisations to certain standards and evaluate them with clear key performance indicators, Boards and Directors should also have mechanisms in place to evaluate their performance and development. The PDCF is not just a certification-it is a commitment to ensuring exemplary standards and quality of leadership among directors across the public and private sectors to meet rigorous, clearly defined benchmarks. More importantly, it will strengthen board effectiveness at scale and safeguard the future success of businesses and organisations.”
Since its inception in 2018, ICDM has championed diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in boardrooms. They have expanded their services to include independent board and director effectiveness evaluations (BDEE), board skills matrix, and director sourcing, achieving a 69% success rate in director placements, including women and first-time directors. To further impact governance, ICDM has led regional initiatives like the ASEAN Board Trends Report and ASEAN Directors Registry, and formed strategic partnerships with IOD UK and other regional IoDs, the 30% Club Malaysia, and Climate Governance Malaysia, aiming to elevate board leadership across borders. Additionally, ICDM provides the Mandatory Accreditation Programme (MAP) and Leading for Impact (LIP) for professional development, empowering boards with essential competencies. They also offer comprehensive board advisory and consultancy services, including coaching and mentoring. ICDM engages in advocacy through its network and external stakeholders, expanding its training and advisory services to include sustainability and ESG.
About the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM):
The Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM) is a membership-based organisation whose mandate is to professionalise directorship in Malaysia. As the national institute of directors (IoD), ICDM is committed to providing continuous professional development – empowering boards and directors with forward-thinking mindsets, practical knowledge and essential competencies. Established by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and supported by Bank Negara Malaysia, Bursa Malaysia and the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), ICDM’s goal is to be the leading influence of excellence in governance and to build a robust corporate governance culture in Malaysia. For more information on ICDM, please visit our website at www.icdm.com.my For any media enquiries, please contact: Imelia Kyra, Narro Communications E: imelia@narrocomms.com
Source Intelligence Logo Source Intelligence’s logo and “Trust your source” tagline
