GLOBAL SCRUM GATHERING KICKS OFF OCTOBER 30 IN DUBLIN

SCRUM ALLIANCE HOSTS GLOBAL GATHERING WITH MORE THAN 600 ATTENDEES

DENVER, CO - DUBLIN, IRELAND, Oct 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 

DENVER, CO, and DUBLIN, IRELAND — Scrum Alliance^®, the largest, most established and influential professional membership organization and certifying body in the Agile community, announced that its Global Scrum Gathering^® in Dublin kicks off October 30. More than 600 people from around the world will be attending this event, which offers business leaders, managers, corporations, and practitioners worldwide the opportunity to share their passion for and knowledge of Agile and Scrum practices that are transforming the world of work.

“We are thrilled to be in Dublin, Ireland, for our 2017 European Global Gathering,” said Lisa W. Hershman, Scrum Alliance interim CEO. “It’s an exciting time to discuss Agile transformation in Ireland, with Irish businesses predicted to invest in digital transformation on a grand scale over the next year. We can’t wait to demonstrate and discuss how our community in Europe has been implementing Scrum.”

Attendees will hear presentations from experts in the field, including Hershman and members of the global training and coaching community, who will inspire with stories of success, current implementation best practices, and creative applications of Agile principles.

Centered around prioritizing individuals over tools and processes, this year’s European Global Gathering will focus on the importance of skilled, professional individuals who are empowered and respected within their organizations.

Sessions, tracks, speakers, and demonstrations will show how an empowered worker leads to a better product. Features include:

Open Space every day: Scrum and Agile work in action as attendees self-organize and develop sessions in real time. 
On-site creation of an artificial intelligence (AI) code: Xavier Detant uses Scrum principles to create an AI code from scratch.

“Our Gathering co-chairs Iain McKenna and Michel Goldenberg have assembled an incredible group of experts to both instruct and breed inspiration for attendees in a plethora of fields from coding to business process,” Hershman said. “Attendees are going to walk away from three days in Dublin with a better understanding of how to truly implement Scrum, empower their coworkers and employees and, ultimately, have a healthier bottom line, a happier customer, and a more satisfied work life.”

Scrum Alliance continues to experience rapid growth in Europe: In 2016, Scrum Alliance trainers and coaches certified 24,000 individuals in Europe. About a third of the organization’s overall membership is now in Europe, which is approaching North America in total market size.

Scrum Alliance hosts two Global Gatherings per year, one in North America and one in Europe. To learn more about future Global and Regional Gatherings, please visit  www.scrumalliance.org. 

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A NEW HUMANITARIAN ENVOY TO SUPPORT REFUGEES WORLDWIDE

TBHF has provided over 647,000 beneficiaries in 10 nations with health, education and emergency aid

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates, Oct 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- In a significant step to bolster their ongoing life-saving relief operations, The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), one of the world’s leading humanitarian organisations based out of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has appointed Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Council, as its Humanitarian Envoy.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30444

TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION LAUNCHES NEW SURFACE-MOUNT BRUSHED MOTOR DRIVER IC

Supporting high-voltage and large-current drive for home-use robot vacuum cleaners and printers.

TOKYO, Oct 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation has broadened its line-up of small surface-mount brushed motor drivers with the addition of “TB67H420FTG,” which supports high-voltage, large-current drive for home-use robot vacuum cleaners, printers and other office equipment. Mass production starts today.

A high power drive is a basic requirement for the motors used in printers and other office equipment, banking terminals, cash dispensers, and home appliances that need high torque drive. As the scope of application increases, so too does the demand for downsizing and space-saving devices.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30436

NTT COM TO CONSTRUCT OPTICAL SUBMARINE CABLE CONNECTING JAPAN, U.S. AND PHILIPPINES WITH LARGE CAPACITY AND LOW LATENCY

To be compatible with 400Gbps optical wavelength division multiplex transmission system as the fastest submarine cable between Japan and U.S.

TOKYO, Oct 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), the ICT solutions and international communications business within the NTT Group (TOKYO:9432), announced today that as part of a consortium comprising SoftBank, Facebook, Amazon, PLDT and PCCW Global, it signed an agreement on 27 October to participate in the construction and maintenance of the JUPITER large-capacity low-latency optical submarine cable between Asia and the United States.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30435

OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY LEADERS INVEST IN SOLIDIA TECHNOLOGIES' SUSTAINABLE CEMENT AND CONCRETE INNOVATIONS

Investment will aid in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by bringing technology to market

PISCATAWAY, N.J., Oct 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE)-- Solidia Technologies® announced today that OGCI Climate Investments has made in an investment in the company to support the adoption of Solidia’s patented cement and concrete technology using CO2.

The Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI) is a CEO-led initiative of ten oil and gas companies that collaborate on action to lead the industry response to climate change. OGCI Climate Investments, its billion dollar investment arm, supports the development, deployment and scale up of new technologies that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30428

SHISEIDO ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO SELL ZOTOS TO HENKEL

Shiseido to Concentrate and Strengthen its Professional Division in Asia Positions Zotos to Pursue Next Phase of its Long-Term Growth Strategy TOKYO, Oct 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Shiseido Company, Limited (Tokyo Stock Exchange, First Section: 4911), a leading global cosmetics company, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its wholly-owned subsidiary Zotos International Inc. (“Zotos”) to Henkel. Shiseido has been promoting a selection and concentration strategy in order to enhance its global brand portfolio as part of its VISION 2020 strategy. As part of that strategy, Shiseido is sharpening its focus on key categories and regions in order to optimize its portfolio, and is focused on driving global growth across its prestige beauty businesses while strengthening its leadership in Asia in the mass cosmetics, personal care, and professional categories. Shiseido’s Professional business plays an important role in the company’s beauty portfolio, and Shiseido plans to concentrate and boost its investment in the professional market in Asia. Shiseido is confident that Zotos, which is based in the U.S. and primarily focused on the North American market, will be well-positioned for further growth opportunities as part of Henkel’s global Beauty Care professional portfolio. Masahiko Uotani, President and Group CEO of Shiseido Company, Limited, said, “The Professional business has been a cornerstone of Shiseido’s heritage since the company opened its first beauty salon in Japan nearly a century ago, and we remain as committed and focused as ever on cultivating and strengthening this key business in the fast-growing Asian markets, including China and Asia Pacific as well as Japan. Henkel’s offer to acquire Zotos provides a great opportunity for our Professional group to concentrate its focus on its core capabilities in Asia.” Based in Darien, CT, Zotos manufactures and markets a full range of award-winning hair care, texture service and hair color options for salons and salon professionals worldwide, with a primary focus in North America and a growing emphasis on the European market. Its portfolio of brands includes Joico, AGEbeautiful, Biotera, Bain de Terre and Senscience. The company’s product innovations and dynamic beauty education have made it a trusted leader in professional haircare for nearly 90 years. Nancy Bernardini, President of Zotos, said, “Shiseido has been an outstanding home for Zotos for almost three decades – as part of Shiseido’s Professional Division, Zotos added even more layers of innovation and artistry to its products and achieved significant milestones, including becoming one of the fastest-growing mid-sized companies in professional beauty. By joining Henkel, we will be taking important steps for the future of our business, focusing on strategic geographic markets that are key to our long-term success while continually invigorating our brands as part of Henkel’s highly complementary portfolio. We are excited to embark on this new chapter.” Shiseido will use the resources gained from this transaction to further pursue its strategic objectives of continuing to nurture its Prestige brands, reinforcing production capability and other activities in order to implement its “New Strategy to Accelerate Growth” in the next three years of VISION 2020. Annual net sales for Zotos totaled $233 million in the fiscal year ending 2016. The transaction is expected to close in December 2017, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30414

GOOD THINGS COME IN PAIRS TO EOS INC. IN SINGAPORE

TAIPEI, Taiwan, Oct 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The international marketing teams of EOS Inc. gathered and celebrated the inspiring growth of the business again, in Singapore’s flagship store on August 28^th. The visiting teams had came a long way, from Foshan China and the franchisee of Singapore’s second flagship store, both participated and signed their contracts to join the EOS family at the ceremony in Singapore. This is a grand expansion of EOS Inc. sales channels in Asia, just like good things come in pairs.
 
Mr. Ben Yang, President of EOS Inc., warmly welcomed these new partners at the ceremony. The team that came from Foshan China with over 20 sales agents was led by Miss Lan, Jin-li, the general manager of a successful dealer of health care food in Canton, China. Her team studied deeply, understanding the products and the corporate philosophy of EOS on their trip, confirming their determination to participate in the business of the global EOS family.
 
At the same time, the representative of another sales team in Singapore, Miss Zhou, Guan-fang, who is well experienced in health care and beauty care products marketing, signed the cooperation contract to join. It indicates that another new flagship store and a sales team will soon be launched in Singapore.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30434

COMPUWARE ANNOUNCES DAY ONE SUPPORT FOR IBM IMS V15.1

Integration Across the Compuware Product Line Helps Joint Customers Quickly Capitalize on New Advances
 

DETROIT, Oct 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Compuware Corporation, the world’s leading mainframe-dedicated software company, is pleased to announce Day One support for IBM IMS V15.1 transactional database on IBM Z. Compuware’s support extends across its product line, including Abend-AID, File-AID, Strobe, Xpediter and COPE, the company’s IMS virtualization solution, as well as Topaz Workbench. Day One interoperability will help shared customers quickly realize the benefits of IBM’s latest IMS enhancements, while increasing efficiencies and reducing costs through virtualization.
 
“IBM’s IMS solution is already the most trusted name in transactional databases for mainframes. IMS V15.1 builds upon that trust through unmatched encryption and processing capabilities, combined with more dynamic development, scalability, and API openness,” said Compuware CEO Chris O’Malley. “This aligns with our quest to help Compuware customers harness the virtues of the mainframe to achieve greater productivity and competitive advantage in the digital economy.”
 
IBM IMS is a hierarchical database and transaction processing subsystem for IBM Z mainframes, including the newest incarnation, the z14. The new IBM IMS V15.1 will allow users to fully leverage the z14’s security and throughput enhancements, while also offering greater developer flexibility and platform connectivity within diverse infrastructures. Compuware’s support extends across its developer, operations and test data management solutions and includes COPE, which enables new development images of IMS to be available practically on demand. This significantly reduces delays and costs associated with creating completely new IMS subsystems for critical initiatives.
 
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30426

GCP APPLIED TECHNOLOGIES ANNOUNCES PRICE INCREASE

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GCP Applied Technologies (NYSE:GCP) has announced that effective January 1, 2018 it is implementing price increases of up to 5% across many of its product lines, or as contract terms allow.

“We are committed to providing customers with high-performing products and industry-leading technical service.  This price increase is necessary to meet persistent inflationary pressures, while continuing to allow us to make investments in developing new technologies and systems to support our customers' needs," said Michael Ragan, GCP’s Vice President of Global Sales.

About GCP Applied Technologies

GCP is a leading global provider of construction products technologies that include additives for cement and concrete, the Verifi® in-transit concrete management system, high-performance waterproofing products, and specialty systems. GCP products have been used to build some of the world’s most renowned structures. More information is available at www.gcpat.com.

Media Relations
Paul Keeffe
+1 617.498.4461
mediainfo@gcpat.com

Investor Relations
Joe DeCristofaro
+1 617.498.2616
investors@gcpat.com

Source : GCP Applied Technologies Inc.

--BERNAMA

​AGF INTRODUCES REBRAND TO REFLECT FIRM'S EVOLUTION

Brings consistency and discipline to its brand house

TORONTO, Oct 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AGF Management Limited (AGF) (TSX:AGF.B) today unveiled a new brand that reflects the firm’s growth strategy, while bringing alignment across its suite of brands.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d24c5b8-5fce-42db-9b65-88b1ed300dc1

“Our rebrand signals the evolution of our story and reflects the disciplined approach we apply to everything we do at AGF -- from how we manage money to serving our clients to driving efficiencies in how we run our business,” said Blake Goldring, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, AGF. “I’m pleased that we could launch this rebrand as we celebrate our 60^th anniversary. It reflects how we are moving forward and looking ahead to the next 60 years.”

The rebrand is yet another step in the advancement of AGF’s strategy, which has grown the firm from their traditional mutual fund roots to a diversified global asset management firm that covers all major market segments and geographies.

Karrie Van Belle, Senior Vice-President, Head of Marketing and Communications joined AGF in October 2016 to lead the rebrand and re-orient AGF in the minds of clients and investors around the world.

“AGF has a great story to tell and through our rebrand we can now deliver that story more effectively,” said Van Belle. “It’s about bringing consistency and discipline to the brand, while modernizing AGF’s identity to show the positive changes AGF has been focused on over the past number of years.”

The rebrand effort was a year-long process that began from a discovery phase to an end creative development phase incorporating feedback from clients, prospects, employees and third-party industry research.

The rebrand also reduces the number of brands AGF manages across their platforms, while bringing alignment across brands like InstarAGF and AGFiQ, which recently announced that its lineup of QuantShare ETFs will be renamed to AGFiQ ETFs (name changes to be effective by early November).

Invested in Discipline 

The financial industry is in an era of change. New products and technologies are appearing every day, and the changing needs of investors are evolving the way investment firms provide their services. AGF’s value proposition – brought to market as “Invested in Discipline” and its new corporate mission “To bring stability to the world of investing” -- signal the strategy the firm put in place to deliver best-in-class quality of service; consistent and repeatable investment performance that delivers long-term capital growth with downside protection, and innovative products designed to meet the evolving needs of clients.

This disciplined approach is also driving a culture of change at AGF as the leadership team grows with new talent and promotions; through greater global collaboration across the firm’s investment management teams which now expands across six countries and three continents; and further adopts and strengthens its risk management processes leveraging its factor-based investing and environmental, social and governance best practices across the firm’s investment management platform.

“Over the last few years, we have been focused on remaining relevant to our clients, while delivering on our strategy,” added Goldring. “Today, we are making progress and that has been reflected in our share price, which has appreciated 57% in the last year.”

Early next week, AGF will be launching a new advertising campaign that reflects AGF’s value proposition and corporate mission to bring stability to the world of investing.

New AGF.com

AGF’s new look and feel has also been captured on AGF.com. The streamlined website makes it easier for advisors and their clients to do business with AGF with an improved user experience including, direct access to a product search, a product finder that allows filtering and quick links to fund resources and easier to navigate product pages.

Tiger Logo

As part of the rebrand, AGF is launching an updated tiger logo. AGF first introduced the tiger as its corporate symbol in 1983. At the time, the tiger was presented as a patient, strategic hunter ready to act quickly when circumstances dictate, but prepared to wait for opportunities. When thinking about discipline, there was a natural association with these qualities of the tiger.

“As we move forward, leveraging the existing brand equity and industry familiarity of the tiger made sense,” added Goldring. “The tiger is a part of AGF’s DNA and what better way to preserve our roots than with the symbolism of the tiger, while introducing the new AGF.”

About AGF Management Limited 

Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is a diversified global asset management firm with retail, institutional, alternative and high-net-worth businesses. As an independent firm, AGF strives to help investors succeed by delivering excellence in investment management and providing an exceptional client experience. AGF’s suite of diverse investment solutions extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and individual investors to institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds and endowments and foundations.

AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America, Europe and Asia. With approximately $35 billion in total assets under management, AGF serves more than one million investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

Media Contact 

Amanda Marchment
Director, Corporate Communications
416-865-4160
amanda.marchment@agf.com

Source : AGF Management Ltd.

--BERNAMA

RDC RECOGNIZED IN CHARTIS RISKTECH 100 REPORT

Ranked in most comprehensive, independent study of the world’s best risk and compliance technology companies

NEW YORK & LONDON, Oct 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- RDC, the Smarter ScreeningTM company, today announced it is being recognized as a global leader in compliance screening by Chartis, an authority on risk and compliance technology.

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ABIOMED ANNOUNCES Q2 FY 2018 REVENUE OF $132.8 MILLION, UP 29% AND RECORD U.S. PATIENT UTILIZATION, UP 33%

DANVERS, Mass., Oct 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abiomed, Inc. (NASDAQ:ABMD), a leading provider of breakthrough heart support technologies, today reported second quarter fiscal 2018 revenue of $132.8 million, an increase of 29% compared to revenue of $103.0 million for the same period of fiscal 2017. Second quarter fiscal 2018 GAAP net income was $24.5 million or $0.54 per diluted share, compared to GAAP net income of $8.9 million or $0.20 per diluted share for the prior year period.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30418

EIB Declares Income Distribution Of 0.027 Sen Per Unit For Fund

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- Eastspring Investments Bhd (EIB) has announced a gross income distribution of 0.027 sen per unit for Eastspring Investments Global Target Income Fund for the financial year ended May 31, 2017.

In a statement today, it said, unit holders who had maintained their unit holdings in the fund as at Oct 20, 2017 would be entitled to the income distribution.

EIB is one of the leading asset management companies in Malaysia in both institutional and retail sectors, with over RM40 billion in assets under management in the country as of June 30, 2017.

It manages unit trust funds, wholesale funds and private mandates.

-- BERNAMA

INDUSTRY LEGEND CRISTBÓAL CONDE JOINS DUCO AS ADVISOR

LONDON, Oct 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Duco, the global provider of self-service data normalization and reconciliation services, today announced that Cristóbal Conde has joined as an advisor to the CEO and board of directors.

Christian Nentwich, CEO of Duco, said: “I am very pleased that Cris has chosen to work with us. We have invested a lot of time in finding the right person to complement our board and senior management. Cris’s experience in helping technology firms scale, and his drive for innovation in the world of data, machine learning, analytics and risk, make him a great fit for Duco as we continue with our expansion strategy. His insight, inspiration and ability to execute are all critical as we build the next generation of data platforms.”

Conde had a 24-year career at SunGard, culminating in him running the firm as CEO, building it into a Fortune 500 company and making it the largest privately-held software and services company in the world. He is currently an advisor and non-executive director at several technology firms challenging the status quo, including OpenGamma, Digital Asset, Callsign and Digital Reasoning.

“I have been involved in reconciliation for much of my career and Duco is the first credible self-service solution I have ever seen,” said Conde, commenting on his appointment. “I believe this approach will be extremely disruptive in a field that has not seen much innovation. Data and analytics are cornerstone-enabling functions where new, agile technology is rapidly changing businesses. Duco offers a unique combination of passionate clients, leading products, talented people and a commitment to innovation. The company has already distinguished itself in challenging environments in some of the world’s largest financial institutions. It now has the potential to grow into a world-renowned enterprise SaaS business.” 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30406

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL BOLSTERS LEADERSHIP TEAM

LOS ANGELES, Oct 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading global commercial real estate services firm Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) and (TSX:CIGI) today announced that Gil Borok has joined the company as Chief Operating Officer | USA. Borok, a seasoned commercial real estate services executive, will be responsible for managing the operations and finances of Colliers’ rapidly growing U.S. business.
 
“Colliers has grown significantly in both size and scale over the past few years while maintaining a relentless focus on serving clients and professionals at the highest levels,” said Marty Pupil, President | U.S. Brokerage. “Attracting a high caliber operations and finance executive like Gil is further evidence of our commitment to growth and operational effectiveness as we continue to strengthen our operations in the most important market in the world.”
 
Borok has unsurpassed experience in financial and operations management, having spent the last 15 years in leadership positions within the commercial real estate industry, most recently at CBRE as Deputy Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer. He is a certified public accountant in California and earned a B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30416

FUSIONEX WINS GIANT 2017 CONTRACT WITH LEADING ASIAN BANK

SINGAPORE, Oct 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fusionex, a multi award-winning, leading software solutions provider specializing in Big Data Analytics (BDA), the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence, and Deep Learning, has won a multi-year contract with a leading Asian bank to deploy GIANT 2017, providing crucial business intelligence and insights for key decision makers to make informed judgements and decisions.
 
The significant contract will see GIANT 2017 being rolled out to help grow and bolster the client’s vision of becoming a one-stop financing and business development centre, helping the client’s customers meet their financing needs and supporting their growth via business advisory services.
 
Being able to connect to a wide variety and huge volume of data formats and sources, GIANT 2017 will consolidate the client’s disparate information with speed. This also gives decision makers a bird’s eye view of each bank branch’s performance, strengths, and weaknesses, all of which will better assist them with planning and strategizing.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30405

​GMO INTERNET'S BITCOIN MINING BUSINESS LAUNCHES TOKEN SALE (ICO) FOR THE SALES OF NEXT-GENERATION MINING BOARDS

TOKYO, Oct 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GMO Internet’s (https://ir.gmo.jp/en/) Bitcoin mining business will launch a token sale (ICO) in 2018, the purpose of which is to sell next-generation mining boards. We will issue tokens as a method to buy next-generation mining boards.

GMO Internet’s Bitcoin mining business

Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin) mining business requires computers enabling highly sophisticated and intensive computation and also requires securing stable power supply to operate and cool the computers. Accordingly, GMO Internet is currently preparing to provide the following with an aim to enter the Bitcoin mining business.

1. We will use cutting-edge 7 nm process technology for chips to be used in the mining process, and are currently working on its research and development with our alliance partner having semiconductor design technology to realize high performance computer for mining. It will be possible to reduce power consumption compared to the existing mining machines with the same performance, and achieve a computational performance of 10TH/s per chip.
2. In terms of power supply, we will operate a next-generation mining center utilizing plentiful renewable energy in Northern Europe, and secure clean and inexpensive power supply, which will allow us to control the costs of operating facilities. After preparing the facilities, we will launch the mining based on ready-made mining computers by December 31, 2017, which will lead to the full-scale entry into the Bitcoin mining business.

After the launch of the Bitcoin mining business, we will also sell our own next-generation mining boards.

Launching token sale for the sales of next-generation mining boards

GMO Internet’s Bitcoin mining business will launch a token sale (ICO) in 2018, planning the sales of next-generation mining boards.

We will consider properly the laws and regulations that are applicable to us under the current legislation including Payment Services Act and the Financial Instrument and Exchange Act, and will be conscious of the protection of token purchasers and stakeholders’ profits when designing the token sale.

Press Inquiries
GMO Internet Group
Group Public / Investor Relations
TEL: +81-3-5456-2695
Email: pr@gmo.jp

Source : GMO Internet, Inc.

--BERNAMA

MYTOYS DELIVERS ORACLE E-BUSINESS SUITE PROJECTS FASTER USING DELPHIX DYNAMIC DATA PLATFORM

Top European family shopping retailer selects Delphix to reduce time-to-market, improve software quality, offer faster disaster recovery, accelerate financial close and reduce costs

FRANKFURT, Germany and REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Oct 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Delphix, the company that has changed the dynamics of managing and consuming data, today announced top online retailer myToys has selected the Delphix Dynamic Data Platform to support their Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) projects and drive continuous innovation.

myToys uses Oracle EBS to run everything from purchasing, finance and accounting to order/ inventory management, customer service and logistics. By adopting the Delphix Dynamic Data Platform, myToys expects to use secure, up-to-date data to improve application development and testing processes, reduce time-to-market and improve quality.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30401

SKYBOX SECURITY RAISES $150 MILLION LED BY CVC CAPITAL PARTNERS' GROWTH FUND WITH PARTICIPATION FROM PANTHEON

SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Skybox™ Security, a global leader in cybersecurity management, announced today the company signed a definitive agreement to receive a $150 million growth equity investment led by CVC Capital Partners’ Growth Fund (CVC Growth) for $100 million, with participation from Pantheon for $50 million. CVC Capital Partners is a leading private equity and investment advisory firm, and Pantheon is a prominent global investor in private equity, infrastructure and real assets.

Based in Silicon Valley, Skybox has a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 46 percent and positive cash flow (2014 ­– 2016). This round of funding will enable an accelerated investment in sales and marketing, customer care and R&D. It will also be used for potential M&A activity, to capitalize on the approximately $10 billion market opportunity in cybersecurity management.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30390

GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERS III ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT TO ACQUIRE 100% OF EQUIS ENERGY ALONGSIDE PSP INVESTMENTS AND CIC CAPITAL

New York, Oct 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Infrastructure Partners (“GIP”), a leading independent global infrastructure investor, announced today that its fund, Global Infrastructure Partners III -- in conjunction with the Public Sector Pension Investment Board (“PSP Investments”), one of Canada’s largest pension investment managers, CIC Capital Corporation (“CIC Capital”) and a group of its other Limited Partner Co-Investors -- has agreed to acquire 100 percent of the equity interests in the wind and solar renewable energy portfolio of Equis Funds Group (“Equis Energy”) for USD3.7 billion.

Equis Energy is one of the largest renewable energy independent power producers in the Asia-Pacific region (“APAC”). Equis Energy is headquartered in Singapore and operates in several of the largest and fastest-growing renewable markets in APAC, including Japan, Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India and Thailand. Equis Energy invests in countries with favourable regulatory regimes and supportive power market dynamics.  As of today, Equis Energy has developed a portfolio of 1.9 GW of operational, construction and shovel-ready solar PV and onshore wind assets.  In addition, Equis Energy owns a promising long-term development pipeline comprised of over 115 projects representing 9.1 GW.

Equis Energy places a strong emphasis on building strong management capabilities in each country.  It employs over 300 dedicated professionals with industry-leading sector expertise. Its management capabilities span the entire renewable project value chain: origination, permitting, design, procurement, construction, financing and operations. Since its inception in 2012, Equis Energy has organically developed and built 100 percent of its portfolio. The company is focused on retaining full control of its projects, which has resulted in superior speed of execution and an enhanced success rate for its development projects. This operating strategy has driven the strong growth of the platform. The operating assets generate stable earnings, which are underpinned by fixed, long-term offtake agreements.

The Equis Energy Transaction is subject to customary regulatory closing conditions, and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2018.

Adebayo Ogunlesi, Chairman and Managing Partner of GIP said: “We are excited by the new investment in Equis Energy which is a strong fit with GIP’s global renewable investment strategy. Equis Energy is a unique success story in the APAC region as it has systematically executed its growth strategy since its founding five years ago. In that period, Equis Energy has become one of the leading renewable energy platforms in the region, with a best-in-class business model, a high-quality asset portfolio and an outstanding management team. We look forward to continuing the Equis Energy success story in the years to come and to supporting new growth opportunities in one of the most promising renewable energy markets in the world.”
 
About Global Infrastructure Partners

GIP is an independent infrastructure fund manager that combines deep industry expertise with industrial best practice operational management. GIP’s current equity fund, Global Infrastructure Partners III, makes equity investments in high quality infrastructure assets in the energy, transport and water/waste sectors where GIP possesses deep experience and strong relationships.

For more information, visit www.global-infra.com 

About PSP Investments

PSP Investments is one of Canada's largest pension investment managers with C$135.6 billion of net assets under management as at March 31, 2017. It manages a diversified global portfolio composed of investments in public financial markets, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, natural resources and private debt.

PSP Investments is committed to renewable energy, with six direct investments and net owned capacity of approximately 3 GW. Its investment strategy in the renewables space complements its diversified global portfolio, adding the potential for increased returns with decreased risk, and a lower carbon footprint.

For more information, visit www.investpsp.com

About CIC Capital

CIC Capital, a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of China Investment Corporation (“CIC”), was incorporated in January 2015 with a mandate to specialise in making direct investments to refine CIC’s overall portfolio management and enhance investment on long-term assets. As CIC’s direct investment arm, CIC Capital is mandated to make direct investments and manage bilateral and multilateral fund investment in order to pursue long-term returns and promote international investment cooperation. CIC Capital is a market-oriented commercial entity with a specialised mandate and global reach.

For more information, visit www.china-inv.cn

Jack Cowell
Global Infrastructure Partners
212 315 8133
Jack.Cowell@global-infra.com

Source : Global Infrastructure Partners

--BERNAMA

UNISYS WINS PAYLOAD ASIA CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARD FOR IT SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE YEAR FOR EXCELLENCE IN AIR CARGO

SINGAPORE, Oct 26 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --
 

Innovative cargo solution Digistics receives customer choice title after winning popular online vote for ability to support digital transformation across supply chain Unisys Corporation (http://www.unisys.com/) (NYSE: UIS) today announced that it has won the Customer Choice Award for IT Service Provider of the Year at the Payload Asia Awards (http://awards.payloadasia.com/) , honouring innovation and excellence in the air cargo supply chain. Unisys was recognised for Digistics(TM) (http://www.unisys.com/digistics), a holistic and integrated digital logistics solution that enables air cargo carriers to streamline their freight management and improve operational efficiencies. The awards, hosted by leading industry publisher Payload Asia (http://www.payloadasia.com/), were presented in Singapore on 12 October 2017. Determined by popular online voting, the awards spotlight air cargo supply chain companies that have excelled despite a challenging global air freight market – demonstrating agility, innovation and superior strategic planning – and having a beneficial impact on market trends. Digistics features a modern, cloud-based architecture that greatly improves a carrier’s speed to market, while advanced analytics and machine learning technologies analyse past, present and future data to optimise supply chain operations and route planning. The cloud-based solution allows for seamless integration into existing systems and supports multiple device types – including mobile devices, tablets, touchscreen devices, and PCs – enabling a more agile, digital workspace. "This award is a testament to our clients as much as it is to us," said Tony Windever, vice president and general manager, Unisys Asia Pacific. "We have seen first-hand the commitment and dedication our clients have toward embracing digital transformation to foundationally transform their business operations, and through our partnership and collaboration, have developed software to meet those most critical business needs." This acknowledgement is the latest recognition for Unisys cargo capabilities. In July, Unisys’ predictive freight capability was honoured ( http://www.unisys.com/industries/commercial/transportation/news%20release/unisys-wins-three-icmg-awards) at the ICMG 2017 Australasian & Asia Pacific Architecture Excellence Awards, and in September, Digistics won the global award ( http://www.unisys.com/offerings/advanced-analytics/news%20release/unisys-predictive-freight-wins-global-icmg-award) for "Best Software Architecture" at the ICMG 2017 USA Architecture Excellence Awards. Digistics is the first comprehensive digital air cargo solution that offers catalogue-based disruptive solutions via the cloud, providing end-to-end functionality from operations to route planning. The solution bridges the gap to the digital age of travel and transportation, leveraging advanced analytics – powered by machine learning – to help carriers improve their speed-to-market while also reducing costs. "The increasing list of third-party awards and recognition validates and supports our approach to transforming supply chain operations. We are thankful to our customers and business partners in further endorsing Digistics as their choice of product for air cargo operations," said Dheeraj Kohli ( http://www.unisys.com/industries/commercial/transportation/Thought%20Leader/dheeraj-kohli-id-2838) , vice president and global head of Travel and Transportation for Unisys. Unisys has more than 55 years of experience providing innovative IT solutions to the travel and transportation industry ( http://www.unisys.com/industries/commercial/transportation). Unisys cargo solutions are used by many of the world's leading carriers, who collaborate via the Unisys Cargo User Group (UCUG). Unisys and UCUG members have worked with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for more than 20 years on initiatives such as e-Freight, Cargo iQ and XML messaging. About Unisys Unisys is a global information technology company that specialises in providing industry-focused solutions integrated with leading-edge security to clients in the government, financial services and commercial markets. Unisys offerings include security solutions, advanced data analytics, cloud and infrastructure services, application services and application and server software. For more information, visit www.unisys.com. About Unisys Asia Pacific In Asia Pacific, Unisys delivers services and solutions to clients in more than 15 countries across the region. For more information visit: www.unisys.com.sg. Follow us on twitter @UnisysAPAC (https://twitter.com/UnisysAPAC), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/Unisys), and in China on: www.weibo.com/unisyschina and WeChat Official Account: Unisys China. Contacts: Asia Pacific: Claire Hosegood, Unisys Asia Pacific, +61 411 253 663 claire.hosegood@au.unisys.com Unisys and other Unisys products and services mentioned herein, as well as their respective logos, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Unisys Corporation. Any other brand or product referenced herein is acknowledged to be a trademark or registered trademark of its respective holder. SOURCE: Unisys Asia Pacific --BERNAMA

THAILAND'S LARGEST MOBILE OPERATOR AIS AND BROADSOFT COLLABORATE TO BRING UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONS TO ENTERPRISE CUSTOMERS

AIS Business Cloud UC Service Powered by BroadSoft, BroadSoft Business UC-One® Application Drives Team Collaboration for AIS Business Customers

PHOENIX, Oct 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BroadSoft, Inc. (NASDAQ:BSFT), a global market share leader in cloud business software for unified communication as a service (UCaaS), and provider of collaboration and contact center as a service (CCaaS), announced the commercial launch of AIS Business Cloud UC, a cloud PBX and unified communications (UC) service based on the BroadSoft Business UC-One^® application. The AIS Business Cloud service will offer Thai business users leading edge cloud services, including a full suite of secure UC services including voice and video conferencing, instant messaging and presence (IM&P), and team collaboration tools.

AIS is Thailand’s largest mobile operator, with over 40 million subscribers nationally.  The company also has a significant and growing presence in the Thai broadband and corporate voice and data communications market, and is driving innovative cloud based service adoption aggressively among its corporate clients.

“As Thailand’s leading communications company, with our entry into the unified communications market for our corporate clients, it was essential that we brought a world leading solution to meet our customer’s cloud communication requirements.  We believe that working with BroadSoft has allowed us to provide the most comprehensive and compelling solution set for our clients as they transform their businesses away from legacy systems and take advantage of the speed, security, flexibility and powerful collaboration tools offered by a world class UC platform,” said Weerachai Patcharopartwong, Senior Vice President-Enterprise Marketing & Sales, AIS. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30371

TATA STARBUCKS REAFFIRMS GROWTH IN INDIA WITH ENTRY INTO KOLKATA IN 2018 AND COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL IMPACT PROGRAMS

• Celebrates 100^th store milestone and 5-year anniversary with plans to open three stores in Kolkata in early 2018
• Aims to increase diversity and hire 40% women by 2022 as it underscores its commitment to be the employer of choice through progressive workplace programs
• Deepens positive impact in the community with Tata STRIVE partnership supporting youth facing barriers to employment
• Launches special promotion and products commemorating milestone

MUMBAI, India, Oct 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Tata Starbucks Private Limited, the 50/50 joint venture between Starbucks Coffee Company (Nasdaq: SBUX) and Tata Global Beverages Limited, today celebrated the opening of its 100^th store located in Mumbai and its five-year anniversary in India with a series of strategic initiatives that reaffirm its long-term commitment to the market.

“As we continue on our journey with Tata, a company that shares the same values and vision for growth, we remain committed to earning the trust and respect of our Indian customers through the unparalleled Starbucks Experience,” said John Culver, group president, Starbucks International and Channel Development. “At the core of this experience are our Indian partners, who proudly represent the more than 330,000 Starbucks partners around the world, and through their dedication and passion have created a strong foundation for Starbucks as we expand to new cities across India in the years to come.”

As Tata Starbucks grows to serve more customers across the country, the company will open three stores in the historic city of Kolkata in early 2018, including a store at the iconic Park Mansion designed to reflect Starbucks coffee heritage. Starbucks stores will deliver signature handcrafted beverages, extensive food offerings and the distinct “Third Place” in the city.

Pathways to Opportunities

As Tata Starbucks continues to grow, so does its commitment to be a positive force in contributing to the future success of Indians. The company expects to double the number of partners (employees) it employs to 3,000 over the next five years and, underscoring its commitment to be a progressive workplace, aims to boost the proportion of women in its workforce to 40 percent by 2022, up from 25 percent today. These build on existing initiatives to fulfill Tata Starbucks aspiration to be the employer of choice, with industry-leading benefits such as the five-day work schedule, a first-of-its-kind program introduced in 2016.

“Our success is defined by our incredible partners who take pride in serving our customers with care and passion,” said Sumi Ghosh, chief executive officer, Tata Starbucks. “Our aspiration, as we continue to grow, is to be the employer of choice in the market through the investments we make for our partners and by creating brighter opportunities for people across the country.”

The company will also continue to deepen its connections with the Indian community and leverage its scale to make a difference to local causes that matter most. Over the next five years, Tata Starbucks will train 3,000 young people who are facing barriers to employment through the Tata STRIVE program, the partnership which combines job skills training and Starbucks expertise in retail operations.

“Our journey with Starbucks has been gratifying and this is a remarkable moment for Tata Global Beverages and Starbucks,” said Ajoy Misra, chief executive officer and managing director, Tata Global Beverages. “We are proud of our shared sense of business values and focus on quality, and we are extremely optimistic about the continued growth opportunities in India.”

Celebrating 100^th Starbucks Store in India

Located at Victoria Mills (Kamala Mills), one of Mumbai’s major commercial hubs, Tata Starbucks 100^th store features a carved wood wall art that honors India’s coffee heritage. The store’s earthy colors and natural wood materials evoke a warm atmosphere that invites customers to relax and connect. The store is the first Starbucks in India to serve Starbucks® Nitro Cold Brew, a small-batch Cold Brew coffee steeped overnight and then infused with nitrogen for a naturally sweet flavor and velvety smooth mouthfeel. Takeaway bags at the 100^th store are sourced from Srishti, an initiative that enables livelihood opportunities for young people with disabilities from the families of plantation workers.

To commemorate the opening of its 100^th store, Tata Starbucks is introducing India’s first You Are Here – Mumbai – ceramic mugs. Inspired by distinct local landmarks such as the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, the Worli Sea Link, Flora Fountain, Taj Mahal Palace and featuring the iconic black and yellow Mumbai taxi, the design captures the spirit of the cosmopolitan metropolis.

In celebration of the 100^th store opening and five-year market anniversary, Tata Starbucks is also introducing the Golden Sparkle Frappuccino® Blended Beverage at all stores in India from 25 October to 6 November. The Golden Sparkle Frappuccino® is espresso blended with rich mocha sauce, topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with an elegant gold-sugar dusting. In honor of the milestone, on 28 October any Short or Tall-size beverage will be available for INR 100 ($1.50 USD) at all stores across India.

Starbucks entered India with the opening of its first store at Horniman Circle in Mumbai in 2012. Today, Starbucks stores are located across six cities: Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi and Bangalore.

About Starbucks

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience please visit us in our stores, online at Starbucks.com and through the Starbucks Newsroom.

About Tata Starbucks Private Limited

Starbucks entered the Indian market in October 2012 through a 50/50 Joint Venture with Tata Global Beverages and currently operates 100 stores in India across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru and Pune, through a network of over 1,600 passionate partners (employees). Starbucks stores are operated by the joint venture, TATA Starbucks Private Limited, and branded as Starbucks Coffee – “A Tata Alliance.”

About Tata Global Beverages

Tata Global Beverages is a global beverage business with a brand presence in over 40 countries. The Company has significant interests in tea, coffee and water and is the world’s second largest tea company. Over 300 million servings of its brands are consumed every day around the world. Tata Global Beverages’ annual turnover is US$1.2bn and it employs around 3,000 people across the world. The Company focuses on natural beverages and has a stable of innovative regional and global beverage brands, including: Tata Tea, Tetley, Himalayan natural mineral water, Tata Gluco+, Good Earth tea, Grand Coffee and Eight O’clock Coffee. For more information please visit www.tataglobalbeverages.com.
 

Contacts

Starbucks Coffee Company
Marianne Duong, +1-206-318-7100
press@starbucks.com

 

Source: Starbucks Coffee Company

 

View this news release and multimedia online at:

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171024005885/en

--BERNAMA

B CAPITAL GROUP MAKES KEY ADDITIONS TO CORE EXECUTIVE TEAM

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., Oct 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- B Capital Group, a global venture capital firm that invests in pioneering healthcare, fintech, industrial logistics, and consumer enablement companies that are scaling worldwide, today announced key appointments to its core executive team, including Howard Morgan as Chairman and Joe Davis as Vice Chairman.

These appointments by B Capital Group will enable the firm to enhance its global-first mentality, blaze a new trail to identify transformative companies, and build enduring businesses that will bridge the gap between startups and corporations, further accelerating their path to scale and success.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30369

XEHAR FASHION APP DITCHES THE SHOPPING CART AND PICKS UP SPEED

New fast fashion app will shorten the checkout time by removing the shopping cart altogether.

PLAYA VISTA, Calif., Oct 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fashion tech company Xehar, today announces they will be removing the shopping cart from their Xehar shopping app. For millennial women shoppers who are interested in fashion but are frustrated with the online shopping experience, the Xehar app is their solution.

“Xehar has found a way to increase conversion for app purchases by simply removing the function of the shopping cart,” says Hadari Oshri, founder and CEO of Xehar. “Within the app, users select complete outfits and purchase with ease. By removing the shopping cart we are reducing friction and speeding up the checkout process.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30366

NETS, SINGAPORE'S LEADING PAYMENTS SOLUTIONS PROVIDER, SELECTS INTERTRUST WHITECRYPTION FOR MOBILE PAYMENT APP SHIELDING

LAS VEGAS, Oct 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Money 20/20 - Intertrust Technologies Corporation announced today that NETS, a leading payment solutions provider based in Singapore, has selected Intertrust’s award-winning whiteCryption® Application Shielding technology to protect its mobile payment applications.
 
NETS is a leading payments company in Singapore and operates Singapore’s national PIN debit scheme as well as the largest acceptance infrastructure in the country located at major retailers, food courts, hawker centres, convenience stores, and supermarkets.
 
NETS’ nationwide acceptance infrastructure of 100,000 acceptance points accepts both card and digital payments from customers of participating banks DBS Bank, Maybank, HSBC Bank, OCBC Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and UOB. The network also accepts UnionPay and BCA cards, and includes 35,000 Unified Point-of-Sale (Unified POS) terminals and 30,000 QR acceptance points.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30367
 

QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT CONTRIBUTES TO MYANMAR'S SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH

YANGON, Myanmar and TOKYO, Oct. 23, 2017 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

High-quality infrastructure will play an essential role in realizing economic growth and unlocking Myanmar's true potential. The important role of quality infrastructure development and Japan's indispensable role in Myanmar's sustainable development were the main theme of discussion at the "Dialogue for Quality Infrastructure -- Building Asia's Future," hosted by the Government of Japan.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30355

POWERED BY BROADSOFT CHANNEL PROGRAM INTRODUCES NEW DIGITAL CUSTOMER LIFECYCLE PLATFORM AND SERVICES TO ENHANCE REVENUE GROWTH

PHOENIX, Oct 23 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BroadSoft, Inc. (NASDAQ:BSFT) a global market share leader in cloud business software for unified communication as a service (UCaaS), and provider of collaboration and contact center as a service (CCaaS) today announced the addition of new digital customer lifecycle management tools including the BroadCloud^® Channel Support System (CSS) and three new services: BroadSoft go-to-market services, BroadSoft onboarding services and BroadSoft adoption services.
 
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b86c0264-fb6d-44fd-a7ae-38bba426e281
 
Powered by BroadSoft, which launched at BroadSoft Connections last year, currently supports 116 channel partners across the globe, validating industry demand for a complete end-to-end digital journey, including best-practice support to maximize selling, onboarding and adoption activities.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30363