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Computime Announces FY23/24 Annual Results

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Profit After Tax Recorded a 5-year-high at HK$83.9 Million

EBITDA Increased by 41.9% to HK$340.9 Million

The Board Proposes a Final Dividend of HK$0.05 

Financial Highlights

For the year ended 31 March

FY2024
HK$ million

FY2023
HK$ million

Year-on-Year (“YoY”)

Change

Revenue

4,037.8

4,204.8

(4.0 %)

Gross profit

631.1

508.8

24.0 %

EBITDA(Note1)

340.9

240.2

41.9 %

Profit after tax

83.9

23.5

257.0 %

Proposed final dividend

HK$0.050

HK$0.021

138.1 %

Note 1: Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (“EBITDA”)

HONG KONG, June 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A leading technology, brand, and manufacturing company and an enabler of smart and sustainable living, Computime Group Limited (the “Company” or “Computime”, together with its subsidiaries, collectively the “Group”; stock code: 320.HK) is pleased to announce its annual results for the year ended 31 March 2024 (the “Year” or “FY23/24” or “FY2024”). As the Group marks its 50th anniversary, we continue to demonstrate resilience and strategic foresight in the complex global landscape.

Results overview

The Group reported the revenue of HK$4,037.8 million for FY2024, a decrease of 4.0% from HK$4,204.8 million for the Year ended 31 March 2023 (“FY2023”), due to soft demand in the housing-related market and recession concerns in the Europe and North America. Despite the revenue decline, the gross profit margin improved to 15.6% in FY2024 from 13.4%[1] in FY2023, driven by enhanced operational efficiency, effective material management and favorable exchange rate environment.

The profit before tax increased by 242.7% to HK$107.6 million from HK$31.4 million in FY2023, while the profit after tax is reaching HK$83.9 million, representing 3 times of the profit after tax for FY2023 at HK$23.5 million. Additionally, the adjusted EBITDA[2] was recorded at HK$333.9 million, reflecting a 13.2% growth from HK$295.0 million in FY2023.

The Group’s cash and bank balances were HK$226.7 million as at 31 March 2024, while the net cash improved to HK$90.3 million as at 31 March 2024 from HK$84.3 as at 31 March 2023. The inventory balance decreased by 15.0% to HK$824.0 million, indicating better operational efficiency and material management.

Segment Review

The Control Solutions segment saw a revenue drop from HK$3,665.7 million in FY2023 to HK$3,601.0 million, a 1.8% YoY decrease due to weakened market demand and reduced consumer confidence. Despite the drop in revenue, profit margins improved significantly, driven by stable demand from long-term customer partnerships and integrated technology and manufacturing collaborations. Moving forward, the Group will implement a globalization strategy with a “region-to-region” approach, collaborating with customers to launch innovative product platforms. These efforts to foster strong customer relationships, expand our global footprint, and enhance operational productivity position the Control Solutions segment well to navigate market fluctuations and sustain profitability.

The Branded Business segment reported a revenue of HK$436.8 million for FY2024, a 19.0% decrease from FY2023, due to challenging market conditions and customer destocking. Despite these challenges, the Branded Business segment is poised for growth through strategic initiatives. We are expanding into Eastern Europe with a dedicated sales team and launching new platforms including Electric Vehicle chargers (“EVCs”), home battery storage solutions, Artificial Intelligence (“AI”)-driven climate control systems, Matter-compatible thermostats, and ultra-quiet Thermostatic Radiator Valves (“TRVs”). A major focus is the Salus Protect security service, targeting the security industry and enhancing our smart home offerings in the European market. Partnering with Securitas, it includes security hardware, smart home devices, and monitoring services under the brands Immunity and Merlin. Additionally, a new centralized warehouse in Poland will boost logistics and distribution efficiency, supporting regional growth.

Research and development (“R&D”)

Computime’s global R&D team of 200 engineers drives innovation across the Centers of Excellence in Mainland China, Hong Kong, the United States (“US”), Romania, and the United Kingdom (“UK”). Our commitment to technological advancement is reinforced through strategic partnerships and ownership in engineering firms, focusing on cloud technology. Collaboration among engineers in Hong Kong, Mainland China, and India enhances scalability and interoperability, leveraging diverse expertise to maintain our competitive edge in intelligent product development.

Outlook

Computime is leveraging AI and sustainability to drive a new era of expansion. With a global R&D team of 200 engineers and over 200 patents, we focus on energy and water management, using AI for significant efficiency gains. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Computime adopted a region-to-region model, establishing manufacturing hubs in Malaysia, Vietnam, Mexico and Romania to enhance supply chain resilience and meet rising demand in the US and European markets. The Group’s Branded Business segment anticipates increasing demand in 2024, with plans to expand our Salus smart home product line. Financial strategies include tighter expense control, a headcount freeze, and improved material efficiency, aiming to boost profitability and cash reserves. Computime remains dedicated to leading in smart and sustainable living technologies, adhering to Matter standards for enhanced interoperability and user experience.

Mr. Bernard AUYANG, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Computime Group, commented, “As Computime celebrates its 50th anniversary, we reflect on our journey marked by innovation, resilience, and significant achievements. Our evolution from humble beginnings to a global leader in smart and sustainable living is a testament to our entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination. Looking ahead, we are committed to driving positive change through cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. Our vision is to democratize smart living, empowering communities worldwide to lead more connected, efficient, and environmentally conscious lives. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, integrity, and social responsibility, we are ready to shape the future for generations to come.”

[1] Excluding the specific inventory provision for Malaysia

[2] Excluding one-off gain on valuation of HK$7.0 million in the current year and the additional inventory provision for the Group’s Malaysia operation of HK$54.9 million in last year

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/computime-announces-fy2324-annual-results-302185500.html

SOURCE Computime Group Limited

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Macrogen Consortium win tender for National Bio Big Data Project

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Illumina is proud to be selected as sequencing technology partner to the Macrogen Consortium.

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Macrogen a global healthcare company that specializes in precision medicine and Illumina Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN), a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, announced today that they are honoured to support the National Bio Big Data project by sequencing and analysing 145,952 Korean genomes.

The National Bio Big Data Project project has been running in Korea as a pilot project since 2020. During this period about 20,000 genomes were analysed, 10,000 of these including people with a rare disease. The ultimate goal is to enable precision medicine by building a reference genome for about 770,000 Koreans by 2028 and a total of 1 million by 2032.  

“Being a part of this step change to improving public health in Korea through the voluntary collection and analysis of genomic, clinical and life record information from the general public, is paramount to ensure precision medicine becomes a standard of care for all Koreans,” said Changhoon Kim, CEO Macrogen.

“Illumina is pleased to be a part of the Korean bio industry ecosystem and to participate in such an important national project. We look forward to contributing to Korea by bringing our expertise and lessons learned from our direct involvement in leading pop gen projects around the world,” said Robert McBride, General Manager of Illumina Korea.

People across the globe have very similar genes but a small number of variants between populations can impact health. For example, some variants are associated closely with particular diseases such as cystic fibrous.[1]These variants can present differently in populations and have a significant impact on how individuals respond to medicines and treatments. Therefore, it is beneficial for Koreans to have information available that is unique to them.

Worldwide, the number of pop gen projects is expanding rapidly, including the UK, Japan, Singapore, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Nigeria.

“Population genome projects are growing worldwide with many programs reaching significant milestones. But despite this inequity remains with the majority of genome datasets being of European descent. This means we have a lot of information how to develop drugs for European populations but this doesn’t translate in any meaningful way to other nationalities, said Robert McBride.

Population genomics provides a platform for industry engagement and investment, specifically in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and data sectors. By integrating large, diverse data sets and using advanced computing technology (such as artificial intelligence or machine learning), health systems and partners are optimally positioned to unlock the power of the genome even further, while improving quality of life and care and fostering economic growth.

“Precision medicine is changing how diseases are treated and this benefits everyone. For patients, treatments often work better when decisions are based around an individual’s genome, for drug companies it can reduce cost of development and for governments there are long term savings related to less waste and healthier patients,” said Changhoon Kim.

References

[1] https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics/educational-resources/fact-sheets/human-genomic-variation#:~:text=How%20do%20peoples’%20genomes%20vary,person%20responds%20to%20certain%20medications.

About Macrogen

Macrogen is a global genetic service provider, partnered with over 18,000 scientists in 150+ countries, and with more than 20 years of experience in the industry.

Established in 1997, from the Genome Medical Research Institute of Seoul National University, Macrogen has become a major service provider and consulting agent for government agencies, universities and research institutes around the world.

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit www.illumina.com and connect with us on X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube

About the Consortium

Macrogen Consortium members include the following companies: DNA Link, Theragen Bio, and CG Invites

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/macrogen-consortium-win-tender-for-national-bio-big-data-project-302335981.html

SOURCE Illumina

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As 2025 IRS Mileage Rate Hits 70 Cents, Expert Warns: Ditch Risky Apps for Secure Paper Tracking

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Gig economy expert Ed Ryder warns against the risks of mileage tracking apps, and advocates using paper-based tracking methods instead. He introduces The Big Mileage Form, a secure alternative developed over two years to meet the specific needs of food delivery gig workers. Ryder highlights recent tech failures, like the July 2024 global IT outage, to underscore the vulnerabilities of digital solutions. The press release also mentions Ryder’s significant mileage deduction using his form and directs readers to GigCoach.net for additional resources, including a consumer tutorial to drive better food delivery outcomes and a gig coach training program.

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — As the IRS announces a standard mileage rate of 70 cents per mile for 2025, gig economy expert Ed Ryder, who has completed over 10,000 deliveries with his own car using major food delivery platforms, urges fellow gig workers to reconsider their mileage tracking methods. While acknowledging the convenience of digital solutions, Ryder advocates for a return to secure, paper-based tracking to protect valuable mileage deductions.

With the mileage rate at 70 cents, accurate tracking is crucial for gig workers and small business owners. Mileage apps seem convenient, but they risk data loss from outages, glitches, and cyber attacks. Many overlook these significant dangers.

“With the mileage rate increasing to 70 cents, accurate tracking is more crucial than ever for gig workers and small business owners,” says Ryder, creator of The Big Mileage Form. “While mileage tracking apps seem convenient, they come with significant risks that many overlook. Network outages, app glitches, and cyber attacks can jeopardize months of data.”

Ryder points to the July 2024 global IT outage as a prime example of technology’s vulnerabilities. “A faulty software update caused mass airline disruptions and impacted other industries, catching major corporations off guard. This incident highlights that even in our digital age, software isn’t infallible. For me, I simply won’t trust mileage tracking apps with my most important tax deduction.”

To address these concerns, Ryder developed a comprehensive, paper-based solution. “I spent two years perfecting The Big Mileage Form, tailoring it to the specific needs of food delivery gig workers,” he explains. “At 11×17 inches, it provides ample space for detailed record-keeping and, crucially, it’s immune to software glitches, data breaches, and ransomware attacks.”

Ryder’s meticulous paper-based record-keeping resulted in a mileage deduction exceeding $19,000 on his 2023 federal taxes. “All my business-related miles are thoroughly documented on paper. I’m fully prepared to defend this deduction in case of an audit. This level of confidence is what I aim to provide other gig workers.”

“In today’s digital age, sometimes the most secure solution is the simplest one,” Ryder concludes. “My form not only ensures data security but also prepares users for potential IRS audits. It’s time to reconsider the old-fashioned, but reliable pen-and-paper method.”

For those interested in learning more about effective mileage tracking and other aspects of gig work, Ryder offers valuable resources on GigCoach.net. These include a tutorial for consumers titled ‘Fair Deal Delivery,’ which provides insights on how to improve food delivery outcomes. Additionally, experienced food delivery couriers can explore Ryder’s gig coach training program. Visit GigCoach.net to access these resources and learn more about The Big Mileage Form.

Media Contact

Ed Ryder, Match Experiment LLC, 1 484-493-8740, hello@ideamaned.com, gigcoach.net

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/as-2025-irs-mileage-rate-hits-70-cents-expert-warns-ditch-risky-apps-for-secure-paper-tracking-302337779.html

SOURCE Gig economy expert Ed Ryder

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DATA BREACH ALERT: Edelson Lechtzin LLP Is Investigating Claims On Behalf Of Ascension Health Customers Whose Data May Have Been Compromised

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NEWTOWN, Pa., Dec. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The law firm of Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating claims regarding data privacy violations by Ascension Health (“Ascension”). Ascension learned of suspicious activity on or about May 8, 2024. To join this case, go HERE.

About Ascension Health

Ascension is a prominent non-profit health system in the nation and operates under Catholic principles.

What happened?

On or about May 8, 2024, Ascension detected unauthorized activity in its computer systems. Ascension initiated an investigation, which included retaining consulting cybersecurity experts and notifying the FBI. The investigation determined that between May 7 and 8, 2024, a cybercriminal accessed files containing personal information about Ascension’s patients and employees. This information included names, medical records, payment details, insurance information, government identification numbers, and other personal data such as dates of birth and addresses. Approximately 6 million individuals have been affected by this data breach.

How can I protect my personal data?

If you receive a data breach notification, you must guard against possible misuse of your personal information, including identity theft and fraud, by regularly reviewing your account statements and monitoring your credit reports for suspicious or unauthorized activity. Additionally, you should consider legal options for mitigating such risks.

Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating a class action lawsuit to seek legal remedies for customers whose sensitive personal and patient data may have been compromised by the Ascension data breach.

For more information, please contact:

Marc H. Edelson, Esq.
EDELSON LECHTZIN LLP
411 S. State Street, Suite N-300
Newtown, PA 18940
Phone: 844-696-7492
Email: medelson@edelson-law.com
Web:  www.edelson-law.com 

About Edelson Lechtzin LLP
Edelson Lechtzin LLP is a national class action law firm with offices in Pennsylvania and California. In addition to cases involving data breaches, our lawyers focus on class and collective litigation in cases alleging securities and investment fraud, violations of the federal antitrust laws, employee benefit plans under ERISA, wage theft and unpaid overtime, consumer fraud, and catastrophic injuries.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions. No class has been certified in this case, so counsel does not represent you unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing now. Your ability to share in any potential future recovery does not depend on serving as lead plaintiff.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/data-breach-alert-edelson-lechtzin-llp-is-investigating-claims-on-behalf-of-ascension-health-customers-whose-data-may-have-been-compromised-302337976.html

SOURCE Edelson Lechtzin LLP

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