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Baylin Reports Strong Q2 2024 Financial Results

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Adjusted EBITDA(2) grew sequentially by almost 400%.Revenue and gross profit grew by 10% and 20%, respectively.Baylin completed the sale of its Korean subsidiary.

Investor Conference Call on August 8, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. ET

TORONTO, Aug. 7, 2024 /CNW/ – Baylin Technologies Inc. (TSX: BYL) (the “Company” or “Baylin”), a diversified global wireless technology company focused on the research, design, development, manufacture, and sale of passive and active radio frequency products, satellite communications products, and supporting services, today announced its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. All amounts are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.

“Three years ago, we started the journey to turnaround Baylin from substantial losses to profitability,” said Leighton Carroll, Baylin’s Chief Executive Officer. “We operate in intensely competitive markets and despite negative macroeconomic challenges, Baylin has been growing quarter over quarter. By building competitive advantage based on unique intellectual property, by engaging the talents of our entire team, and by delivering on a specific go to market strategy, we have seen our business had a very solid quarter. I cannot thank the employees of our business enough for the dedication and hard work.”

SECOND QUARTER SUMMARY

Continuing Operations

Revenue of $22.0 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of $0.7 million or 3.4% compared to the second quarter of 2023. This also represents an increase of $1.9 million or 9.9% compared to the first quarter of 2024. Compared to the same prior year period, the increase in revenue was primarily due to sales volume increase in the Wireless Infrastructure business line.Gross profit of $9.2 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of $0.7 million or 8.8% compared to the second quarter of 2023. This also represents an increase of $1.5 million or 19.6% compared to the first quarter of 2024. Gross margin of 41.9% in the second quarter of 2024 compared to 39.9% in the second quarter of 2023 and compared to 38.5% in the first quarter of 2024. Compared to the same prior year period, the higher gross margin in the second quarter of 2024 was mainly due to improved product mix. Wireless Infrastructure revenue as a percentage of total revenue was higher in the second quarter of 2024 and most of its products generate higher gross margins than the other product lines.Adjusted EBITDA of $2.3 million in the second quarter of 2024, an increase of $1.2 million or 116% compared to the second quarter of 2023. This also represents an increase of $1.8 million or 394% compared to the first quarter of 2024. Compared to the same prior year period, the increase in the second quarter of 2024 was mainly due to combination of higher revenue, higher gross margins and lower operating expenses. The second quarter of 2023 had the benefit of specific one-time government incentives which were recorded as an offset to operating expenses in that quarter.Net loss of $0.1 million in the second quarter of 2024 compared to a net income of $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2023. This also represents an increase of $1.9 million compared to a net loss of $2.0 million in the first quarter of 2024. The net loss in the second quarter of 2024 was primarily the net result of an operating income of $0.8 million offset by interest and other finance expenses as well as income tax expenses. The net income in the second quarter of 2023 was due in part to a gain on lease termination and sale of non-current assets in Vietnam as well as a favourable adjustment based on the fair market value of the convertible debentures. On a per share basis, a net loss of $nil per share in the second quarter of 2024 compared to a net income of $nil per share in the second quarter of 2023.Net debt(3) of $16.6 million at June 30, 2024, an increase of $3.9 million from December 31, 2023, primarily due to an increase in working capital investment as a result of increasing sales and order backlog during the six months ended June 30, 2024.Backlog(4) of $32.6 million as at June 30, 2024 compared to $31.2 million as at December 31, 2023. The increase was mainly due to a higher level of backlog in the Wireless Infrastructure business line as a result of an increase in demand from wireless carriers and third-party operators. Backlog increased to $33.1 million as at July 29, 2024 as a result of an increase in new order intake across all business lines at the start of the third quarter of 2024.

Discontinued Operations (representing the Mobile and Network business line)

Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations of –$0.6 million in the second quarter of 2024 compared to –$1.0 million in the second quarter of 2023. The reduced loss in Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations in the second quarter of 2024 was primarily due to an increase in gross profit as a result of higher revenue as well as a decrease in operating expenses in the M&N business line compared to the prior year period.Net loss from discontinued operations of $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2024, which was largely consistent with the prior year period. The net loss from discontinued operations in the second quarter of 2024 was mainly due to an operating loss of $1.0 million in the M&N business line. On a per share basis, a net loss of $0.01 per share in the second quarter of 2024 compared to a net loss of $0.02 per share in the second quarter of 2023.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

Products

In May 2024, Advantech Wireless Technologies Inc. (“Advantech”) received an $8.2 million order for its ultra-high power Summit II Solid State Power Amplifier System. The order was placed by a major US defence contractor for use in a NATO government specific application. The Summit systems, produced by Advantech in its Kirkland, Quebec facility, feature a soft-fail redundant architecture based on our proprietary CAN Bus operating system.

In July 2024, the Company’s Embedded Antenna business line received a multi-year, multi-million dollar award for a 4G/5G antenna solution. It was selected by a US computer networking company to provide this solution for the networking company’s mobile customer premise equipment product, which will be available to consumers through multiple US Tier 1 carriers as well as a Tier 1 carrier outside the United States.

Sale of the Mobile and Network Business

On July 9, 2024, the Company announced that it had entered into an agreement (the “Transfer Agreement”) with a Korean strategic acquirer, under which the Company agreed to sell Galtronics Korea Co., Ltd. (“GTK”) and Galtronics Vietnam Company Limited (“GTV”). The Company has completed the sale of GTK to the strategic acquirer. Subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals, the Company expects to complete the sale of GTV during the third quarter of 2024. Upon the sale of GTV, the Company will no longer be in the Mobile and Network business.

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The table below discloses selected financial information for the periods indicated.

(in $000’s except per share amounts)

Three Months Ended June 30,

Six Months Ended June 30,

2024

2023

Change

Change

2024

2023

Change

Change

$

$

$

%

$

$

$

%

Profit and Loss

Revenue

22,035

21,307

728

3.4 %

42,088

40,052

2,036

5.1 %

Gross profit

9,238

8,492

746

8.8 %

16,960

16,110

850

5.3 %

Gross margin

41.9 %

39.9 %

2.0 %

N/A

40.3 %

40.2 %

0.1 %

N/A

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

(132)

218

(350)

N/A

(2,104)

1,082

(3,186)

N/A

Net loss from discontinued operations

(1,457)

(1,461)

4

(0.3 %)

(2,243)

(3,491)

1,248

(35.7 %)

Net loss

(1,589)

(1,243)

(346)

27.8 %

(4,347)

(2,409)

(1,938)

80.4 %

Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share from continuing operations

($0.00)

$0.00

($0.00)

N/A

($0.02)

$0.02

($0.04)

N/A

Basic and diluted net loss per share from discontinued operations

($0.01)

($0.02)

$0.01

(50.0 %)

($0.01)

($0.05)

$0.04

(80.0 %)

Basic and diluted net loss per share

($0.01)

($0.02)

$0.01

(50.0 %)

($0.03)

($0.03)

$0.00

0.0 %

EBITDA from continuing operations

1,514

1,094

420

38.4 %

843

4,421

(3,578)

(80.9 %)

EBITDA from discontinued operations

(580)

(684)

104

(15.2 %)

(299)

(1,690)

1,391

(82.3 %)

EBITDA(1)

934

410

524

> 100.0%

544

2,731

(2,187)

(80.1 %)

Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations

2,273

1,050

1,223

> 100.0%

2,733

2,635

98

3.7 %

Adjusted EBITDA from discontinued operations

(580)

(968)

388

(40.1 %)

(623)

(1,676)

1,053

(62.8 %)

Adjusted EBITDA(2)

1,693

82

1,611

> 100.0%

2,110

959

1,151

> 100.0%

As at

As at

As at

As at

June 30,
2024

June 30,
2023

Change

Change

June 30,
2024

December

31, 2023

Change

Change

$

$

$

%

$

$

$

%

Balance Sheet and Other**

Current assets – Continuing operations

37,044

49,267

N/A

N/A

37,044

35,346

1,698

4.8 %

Current assets – Assets held for sale

8,581

400

N/A

N/A

8,581

7,885

696

8.8 %

Total current assets

45,625

49,667

N/A

N/A

45,625

43,231

2,394

5.5 %

Total assets

60,993

70,643

(9,650)

(13.7 %)

60,993

59,710

1,283

2.1 %

Current liabilities – Continuing operations

41,296

63,522

N/A

N/A

41,296

38,955

2,341

6.0 %

Current liabilities – Liabilities related to assets held for sale

10,547

N/A

N/A

10,547

8,854

1,693

19.1 %

Total current liabilities

51,843

63,522

N/A

N/A

51,843

47,809

4,034

8.4 %

Total liabilities

64,728

72,940

(8,212)

(11.3 %)

64,728

59,746

4,982

8.3 %

Net debt(3) from continuing operations

16,641

23,725

(7,084)

(29.9 %)

16,641

12,787

3,854

30.1 %

Backlog(4) from continuing operations

32,603

32,275

328

1.0 %

32,603

31,156

1,447

4.6 %

Notes:

(1)

See “Non-IFRS Measures”. EBITDA refers to operating income (loss) plus depreciation and amortization.

(2)

See “Non-IFRS Measures”. Adjusted EBITDA refers to EBITDA plus the sum of: a) post business acquisition expenses; b) fair value step-up of inventory acquired as part of an acquisition; c) expenses for litigation relating to acquisition agreements; d) expenses relating to planned restructuring following acquisition; e) impairment of fixed and intangible assets (including goodwill) following acquisition; f) expenses to permanently close or relocate a facility, shut down a line of business, eliminate positions; g) expenses related to corporate re-organization; h) M&A expenses; and, i) non-cash compensation.

(3)

See “Non-IFRS Measures”. Net debt refers to total bank indebtedness less cash and cash equivalents.

(4)

See “Non-IFRS Measures”. Backlog refers to the value of unfulfilled purchase orders placed by customers.

 **

Balance Sheet as at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023 reflects the reclassification of all assets and liabilities of the M&N business line into “Assets held for sale” and “Liabilities related to assets held for sale”, respectively. Such assets and liabilities are classified as current. Balance Sheet as at June 30, 2023 does not reflect such reclassification, which makes the comparison against the current quarter-end results not applicable (except for “Total assets” and “Total liabilities”).

A copy of the Company’s unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and corresponding management’s discussion and analysis (the “MD&A”) are available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

OUTLOOK

A number of the Company’s financial measures from continuing operations in the second quarter of 2024 continued to improve, quarter over quarter, compared to the first quarter of 2024. Revenue increased by 9.9% ($22.0 million compared to $20.1 million) and gross profit increased by 19.6% ($9.2 million compared to $7.7 million). Gross margin improved by 3.4 percentage points (41.9% compared to 38.5%). This led to a stronger positive Adjusted EBITDA of $2.3 million from continuing operations in the second quarter of 2024 compared to $0.5 million in the first quarter of 2024. The improvement was mainly driven by the Wireless Infrastructure business line, which showed increased strength across all financial metrics, including revenue, gross profit and Adjusted EBITDA. The Embedded Antenna and Satcom business lines maintained their strong performance from the first quarter of 2024.

We continue to prioritize product mix, emphasizing products that generate higher margins and gross profit, with a view to maintaining and growing Adjusted EBITDA. The macroeconomic environment and the continuing effect of high interest rates remain an issue for our business, which, in the short-term could continue to affect our volume of orders and revenue, as well as causing pushouts of orders from customers. Nevertheless, we expect the results from our continuing operations to remain positive during the third quarter and for the rest of 2024.

Embedded Antenna Business Line

The Embedded Antenna business line again had a strong second quarter of 2024, substantially in-line with its performance in the first quarter. The unfavourable macroeconomic conditions, principally due to an oversupply of finished goods, that led to lower sales volumes at the end of 2023 have not occurred this year. Moreover, demand for a new public safety product launched in the fourth quarter of 2023 has exceeded expectations in 2024. We expect the Embedded Antenna business line will continue to perform strongly for the remainder of 2024, despite expected seasonally affected lower sales in the third quarter. Results are dependent on the home networking, public safety and automotive markets remaining resilient in the face of economic pressures. The number of active bids for 2024 projects remains at a very strong level for the business.

Wireless Infrastructure Business Line

The Wireless Infrastructure business line had a very strong second quarter of 2024, building on its success in the first quarter, with a continuing high volume of sales of its higher margin multibeam and innovative small cell antennas and further stadium and airport deployments. We are leveraging the competitive advantages that these products afford to open up new global opportunities to drive sales with wireless carriers and third-party operators who operate wireless mobile networks for their customers. We are continuing to expand into new markets, particularly in areas in Europe, where we have not previously had sales. Although there remains a risk of spending cutbacks by carriers, we expect to see further spending on small cells in 2024, which will drive further sales volumes for the business. Based on our current assessment, we expect the full-year results to reflect a marked improvement over 2023, despite likely lower revenue in the second half of 2024 compared to the first six months.

Satcom Business Line

The Satcom business line continues to see consistent demand for its products, supported by strong capital spending by its customers, particularly for high powered amplifiers used in military, government, and broadcast applications.

Major programmatic opportunities continue to be resilient, particularly for high powered amplifiers, although awards remain lumpy. We continue to see softness in the commercial lower power market, particularly in the maritime and airplane sectors, but broadcast applications remain solid. Given our focus on higher power opportunities, we expect the business to continue to demonstrate resiliency in 2024. Our Genesis and Summit lines of solid-state power amplifiers are generating sales from clients due to the improvements in performance, monitoring, and failover they provide over our older technology and products of our competitors. Importantly, these new amplifiers are consistent in architecture, meaning they will allow the business to simplify supply chain requirements over time and thereby improve efficiencies in manufacturing.

We continue to see opportunities for growth in sales for military and other government-related uses as many western countries continue to maintain high levels of defense and scientific spending. Given the technology upgrades within our product portfolio, we expect to continue our strong sales volumes while we work to improve our overall margin attainment.

Overall, we expect revenue and gross profit in 2024 will be stronger than 2023. The Satcom business line continues to demonstrate a strong order book with improving margins. Improving production efficiencies in our facilities in order to address the backlog and improve overall revenue attainment remains an important priority, particularly in our Kirkland, Quebec facility.

Mobile and Network (formerly, Asia Pacific) Business Line

The M&N business line continues to face significant challenges. The second quarter saw a further reduction in revenue over the first quarter, as a result of lower sales volumes in two of its principal customer’s mobile phones for which M&N supplies the antennas. In addition, M&N was unable to benefit from another program opportunity for its customer due to issues related to the ultimate finished goods producer on the project.

Management has been taking steps to limit the adverse effect this has had on the M&N business. We continue to focus on reducing or eliminating operating and other costs while work is done to diversify the revenue base until the divestiture is complete.

In July 2024, the Company announced that it had reached agreement to sell the M&N business (see “Recent Developments – Sale of the Mobile and Network Business”).

INVESTOR CONFERENCE CALL

Baylin will hold a conference call on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. (ET) to discuss its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024. The conference call will be hosted by Leighton Carroll, Chief Executive Officer, and Dan Nohdomi, Chief Financial Officer. All interested parties are invited to participate using the dial-in details provided below.

Date:                            August 8, 2024
Time:                           8:00 a.m. (ET)
Dial-in Number:            (+1) 800-836-8184 or (+1) 289-819-1350
Conference ID#:            81373
Rapid Connect:    To join the conference call by phone, please use the following URL to easily register and be connected into the conference call automatically: https://emportal.ink/4cNGhgf
Webcast:               This call is also on webcast and can be accessed at: https://app.webinar.net/4ZlXmaEmAeO

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND STATEMENTS

This press release includes forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (together, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact. Rather, forward-looking statements are disclosure regarding conditions, developments, events or financial performance that we expect or anticipate may or will occur in the future including, among other things, information or statements concerning our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, statements with respect to management’s beliefs, estimates, intentions and plans, and statements concerning anticipated future circumstances, events, expectations, operations, performance or results. Forward-looking statements can be identified generally by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “should”, “would”, “estimate”, “expect”, “forecast”, “indicate”, “intend”, “likely”, “may”, “outlook”, “plan”, “potential”, “project”, “seek”, “target”, “trend” or “will” or the negative or other variations of these words or other comparable words or phrases and is intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words.

The forward-looking statements in this press release include statements concerning the outlook for our business and the expected completion of the sale of GTV. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and estimates made by us in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, including projected growth in the sales of passive and active radio frequency and satellite communications products, and supporting services, and other factors we believe are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such assumptions and estimates will prove to be correct.

Many factors could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements or future events or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including the risk factors discussed in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form, which is available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors in this press release. There can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Unless required by applicable securities law, the Company does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

NON-IFRS MEASURES

This press release includes a number of measures that are not prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and as such may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We believe these measures are commonly employed to measure performance in our industry and are used by analysts, investors, lenders and interested parties to evaluate financial performance and our ability to incur and service debt to support business activities. While management of the Company believes that non-IFRS measures provide helpful supplemental information, they should not be considered in isolation as an alternative to net income, cash flows generated by operating, investing or financing activities, or other financial statement data presented in accordance with IFRS. For further information, see “Non-IFRS Measures” on page 3 of the MD&A.

ABOUT BAYLIN

Baylin Technologies Inc. is a diversified global wireless technology company focused on the research, design, development, manufacture, and sale of passive and active radio frequency products, satellite communications products, and supporting services.

For further information, please visit www.baylintech.com.

SOURCE Baylin Technologies Inc.

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Shijingshan: Committed to High-Level Openness

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BEIJING, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Following the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, China successfully hosted its first national-level international large-scale fair—the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) 2024, which concluded on September 16. The event featured exhibitors from 85 countries and international organizations, participating under their national governments or headquarters, with over 450 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders showcasing their offerings both online and offline.

Adhering to the open, cooperative and mutually beneficial principle, the CIFTIS injects new momentum into global economic development through concrete actions. As one of the “dual venues” for the fair, Shijingshan District hosted a variety of business activities, including exhibitions, negotiations, and conferences. While providing meeting organization services, it showcased the achievements of Shijingshan in fostering openness and development. By leveraging the Fair’s platform, Shijingshan seeks to promote its developmental advantages globally and aims to attract more partners to this welcoming district for mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation.

Presenting Achievements in Open Cooperation and Development in Multiple Dimensions

This CIFTIS’s Shougang Park venue is composed of nine thematic exhibitions, including telecommunications, computer and information services; financial services; culture & tourism services; education services; sports services; supply chain & business services; engineering consulting & construction services; health services; and environmental services. It circles around cultivating new quality productive forces while showcasing the latest achievements, technologies, and applications in the digitalization, intelligentization, and greening of services trade, creating a “debut stage” for global services trade.

Shijingshan leverages its strengths by organizing five thematic exhibitions and four promotional booths on-site. The culture & tourism services exhibition promoted Shijingshan’s rich culture and tourism resources, while also building a support area for paired assistance to highlight its revitalization efforts to a global audience. The financial services exhibition showcased its achievements in economic development across five sectors, that is, sci-tech finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance. The exhibition of telecommunications, computer and information services highlighted the growth of Shijingshan’s the artificial intelligence large model industry cluster and key humanoid robot enterprises. In addition, the primary and secondary school science education experimental zone invited participation from six national-level science education centers, including Shijingshan District, to display their accomplishments. Four schools, including the Beijing National Day School Shijingshan, showcased their scientific research and learning outcomes through visual presentations and videos, while also engaging visitors in interactive science experiments.

The AIES Beijing Open is made up of four competition areas, virtual cycling, virtual rowing, virtual dance, and virtual table tennis. The event welcomed international competitors, domestic professional athletes, high-level amateurs, and university students, while showing the achievements of the “digital + sports” industry. Besides, four promotional booths focused on taxation, justice, investment, and commerce showcases Shijingshan’s tax and judicial policies, offering one-stop policy guidance for participating businesses and visitors. These booths also clarified investment promotion policies, creating a unique event that integrates commerce, tourism, culture, and sports.

Working Together for Global Open Cooperation and Development

The Open Cooperation Forum 2024 was held on the afternoon of September 13. Experts, scholars, government representatives, and business leaders from both domestic and international backgrounds gathered at the Shougang Park to engage in in-depth discussions on promoting high-level open cooperation and supporting regional economic development. Shijingshan District is committed to taking industrial transformation as the strategic foundation for its initiatives, establishing several distinctive industrial parks, including the Intelligent Technology Park, Industrial Internet Park, Virtual Reality Park, Science Fiction Industry Cluster, and Artificial Intelligence Large Model Cluster. What’s more, the district is focusing on new opportunities in future information, future health, future manufacturing, and future space, continually enhancing its innovation capacity, development vitality, economic strength, and overall competitiveness.

It is dedicated to expanding openness as a key driver for integrating into the capital’s new development pattern. The district capitalizes on a range of policy opportunities, including the construction of Beijing’s two zones, effectively leveraging the role of expanding services and deepening economic reforms. It continues to optimize the business environment, actively participates in organizing the CIFTIS, and develops high-standard international cooperation zones to provide a broad platform and efficient services for enterprises to settle and cluster. Shijingshan aims to implement high-level openness to promote high-quality development, enhance mechanisms for foreign openness, innovate and elevate services trade, and align with international economic and trade standards, creating a premier business environment characterized by marketization, rule of law, and internationalization.

Three parallel forums took place during this CIFTIS. With the theme of “Leveraging Overseas Strength for Development • Pursuing Broad Horizons Through Innovation”, the Dream Incubator of Overseas Chinese Beijing Forum set up ten sub-venues abroad, aiming to enhance the involvement of overseas Chinese’s capital and expertise in Beijing’s high-quality development. The Artificial General Intelligence Computility Forum focused on “Releasing New Quality Productive Forces with Unbounded Intelligence and Computational Foundations”, where industry experts and scholars explored new possibilities in artificial general intelligence computility. The Digital Energy Development Forum 2024, themed as “Energizing the Future with Digital Innovation”, showcased a range of quality development achievements and finalized partnerships for several high-quality projects, uniting all parties to advance digital innovation and development.

The rich array of side events is one of the highlights of this CIFTIS. The International Open Cooperation Promotion Conference circled around developing the international open cooperation zone, drawing representatives from international organizations, leading global companies, and prospective businesses seeking to establish a presence in these areas. It centered on the advantages of Shijingshan’s key industries to attract target enterprises. Furthermore, the Roundtable Discussion of Foreign-Funded Enterprises engaged representatives from international organizations, business associations, and foreign-funded companies from countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and France to explore collaboration in aligning with high-standard international economic and trade rules, as well as market access in the service sector, sharing the successes of modernization with Chinese characteristics.

To enhance the consumer experience for attendees of the CIFTIS, Shijingshan has expanded its comprehensive service offerings in areas such as food, accommodation, transportation, tourism, entertainment and shopping. The Second “Here I Am for CIFTIS” Shijingshan Culture and Tourism Carnival has been significantly upgraded, evidenced by the “Divine Beasts Ascend to Immortal Mountain”: Enchanting Night Tour in Shijing Mountain. The “Surprises Await in Shijingshan. Hey There, CIFTIS!” promotional event was held during the 14th Shijingshan Consumption Festival. This included online surprise announcements and a consumption map showcasing quality shopping venues. Special surprise floats were on display, with oversized themed shopping bags distributed. Shopping centers like Joy City, Xirondo Plaza, Modern Plaza, and Chang’an Mills in Shijingshan also launched supporting promotional activities. Business tours in Shijingshan offered three dedicated routes, inviting exhibitors from digital technology, finance and insurance, culture and tourism, and sports related industries to explore relevant industrial parks and attractions for in-depth exchanges.

The China International Fair for Trade in Services 2024 has successfully concluded. Utilizing this platform, Shijingshan has once again showed its high-quality development achievements and favorable business environment to a global audience. We look forward to collaborating with more partners in an open and inclusive manner to create a win-win future.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shijingshan-committed-to-high-level-openness-302254872.html

SOURCE Open Cooperation Forum

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Most Users Are NOT Using AI Companion as Their AI Girlfriend – Insights from Muah AI User Survey

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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Muah AI/

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly intertwined with daily life, the idea of having an AI companion or even an AI “girlfriend” has gained significant attention. While this concept has sparked curiosity, excitement, and even controversy, a recent survey by Muah AI has shed light on the reality of how users are actually engaging with these AI companions. According to the survey results, fewer than 2% of users consider themselves to be in a serious romantic relationship with their AI companion, with the overwhelming majority regarding it as a source of entertainment and roleplaying.

This revelation presents an interesting twist to the popular narrative surrounding AI and human relationships. Many assumed that, with the rise of sophisticated AI that can mimic human emotions and responses, people would begin forming deep emotional bonds with these digital entities. However, the survey data from Muah AI shows that, at least for now, the vast majority of users are not taking these AI relationships as seriously as some might have thought.

The Emergence of AI Companions

AI companions, or “AI girlfriends” as some platforms market them, have become a hot topic over the past few years. Platforms like Replika, Anima, and Muah AI offer users the chance to interact with a personalized AI, which can carry on conversations, offer emotional support, and even engage in roleplaying scenarios that resemble a relationship. The premise is simple: using advanced machine learning algorithms and natural language processing, these AI companions can learn from their users, creating the illusion of intimacy and personalization.

The potential appeal is obvious. For those who are lonely, socially anxious, or seeking comfort, the idea of having an AI that is always available, non-judgmental, and designed to cater to their emotional needs can be incredibly attractive. In fact, there are numerous reports and anecdotes from individuals who claim to have developed genuine emotional connections with their AI companions. But as the Muah AI survey shows, these instances may be far rarer than media headlines suggest.

Survey Results: Entertainment Over Emotional Investment

Muah AI‘s survey provides a comprehensive look at how its users interact with their AI companions, and the results challenge the notion that most users are looking for a serious relationship with AI. According to the data:

Less than 2% of users consider themselves to be “seriously dating” their AI companion.A significant majority view their interactions with the AI as a form of entertainment or roleplaying rather than a meaningful romantic or emotional connection.Many users engage with AI companions out of curiosity or as a way to pass the time, often treating the interactions as light-hearted and fun rather than a substitute for a real-life relationship.A notable portion of users also expressed that they enjoy using AI companions for creative roleplaying scenarios, where they can explore fictional or fantasy-based interactions without any real-world implications.

This data suggests that while the idea of an “AI girlfriend” may be intriguing, most users are not approaching it with the intention of forming a serious romantic bond. Instead, they are treating it more like a game or simulation, where they can experiment with different types of interactions and relationships in a low-stakes environment.

Why Are Users Hesitant to Commit to AI Companions?

There are several reasons why users may be hesitant to view their AI companion as a genuine romantic partner. First and foremost is the awareness of the artificial nature of the interaction. While AI can simulate human conversation and emotions, most users are well aware that these responses are pre-programmed and algorithmically generated. The knowledge that their “partner” is ultimately a machine can create a barrier to forming a deep emotional connection.

Moreover, many users view AI companions as a tool for escapism or fantasy rather than a replacement for real-life relationships. In the same way that people may enjoy playing video games or engaging in fictional roleplaying, interacting with an AI companion can offer a similar outlet for creativity and entertainment. These users are not seeking emotional fulfillment from the AI but rather a way to explore different scenarios and personalities without the complexities of real-world dynamics.

Additionally, there are ethical and philosophical concerns that may prevent users from seriously considering a relationship with AI. The idea of forming a romantic connection with a machine raises questions about authenticity, consent, and the nature of love. Many users may feel uncomfortable with the idea of developing feelings for an entity that lacks true emotions or consciousness, no matter how convincing the simulation may be.

The Future of AI Companions: Entertainment or Emotional Support?

While the Muah AI survey indicates that most users are not taking their AI companions seriously as romantic partners, that does not mean that AI companions are without value. For many, these AI entities serve as a valuable source of emotional support and companionship. Users who are isolated, dealing with mental health challenges, or simply looking for someone to talk to may find comfort in the consistent and non-judgmental nature of an AI companion.

Furthermore, the role of AI in human relationships may evolve as the technology continues to improve. As AI becomes more advanced, it is possible that future iterations of AI companions could offer even more realistic and emotionally engaging interactions. This could blur the line between entertainment and emotional connection even further, leading to more users considering AI as a legitimate relationship option.

However, the survey data suggests that for now, AI companions are primarily being used for fun and fantasy rather than serious emotional investment. Whether this changes in the future will depend not only on advancements in AI technology but also on shifting societal attitudes towards AI-human relationships.

Conclusion

The concept of an “AI girlfriend” may have captured the imagination of many, but Muah AI‘s survey reveals that most users are not taking their AI companions seriously as romantic partners. With fewer than 2% of users considering themselves to be in a serious relationship with their AI, it’s clear that the majority view these interactions as a form of entertainment or roleplaying rather than a meaningful emotional connection.

As AI technology continues to develop, it will be fascinating to see how users’ relationships with AI companions evolve. For now, however, it seems that the allure of AI companionship lies more in its ability to entertain and provide creative outlets than in offering a substitute for real-life romantic relationships.

Ultimately, the future of AI-human relationships is still in its early stages, and as AI becomes more capable, the way people engage with these digital companions may change. But as of now, it’s clear that most users are enjoying the novelty of AI companionship without taking it too seriously—at least not yet.

Media/Business Contact Information:
Muah AI 

PR Director:
Ashley

Contact Number:
+1 626-677-6013

Company Website:
https://muah.ai 

Company email:
love@muah.ai

Feel free to reach out if you are interested in writing a dedicated piece about Muah AI!

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Internet Society Report Highlights Challenges and Recommendations for Internet Connectivity in the Middle East

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Internet Society (ISOC), a global charitable organization advocating for an open, globally connected, and secure Internet, released a comprehensive report on the state of Internet connectivity across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The report underscores Internet connectivity as a catalyst for economic growth and social development and how an increase in fixed broadband access has a direct impact on growing gross domestic product (GDP).

Key Findings:

Growth in Mobile and Fixed Broadband: Both mobile and fixed broadband connections have grown substantially from 2015 to 2021, particularly in Gulf States with advanced fiber-optic and 5G networks. However, deployment has been slower in other parts of the region, primarily due to infrastructure challenges and affordability issues.

Mobile Internet users increased from 130M to over 180M between 2016 and 2021, with Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco showing the highest growth rates. Fixed broadband users rose from 17M to 29M in the same period, with Egypt leading the way. The Arab region lags behind other regions in fiber optic deployment, with stagnation in investment since 2018.

High-Income Countries: Significant progress in broadband infrastructure, especially in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries due to 5G rollout. High-income countries improved their Internet availability from 77.34 to 79.37, surpassing global averages.Low-Middle-Income Countries: Broadband has improved modestly, but challenges persist. Despite overall progress, a significant digital divide remains between high-income and low-middle-income countries, partly due to political and economic instability in some regions, such as Tunisia and Syria.

Infrastructure Challenges: There is a heavy reliance on European Internet Exchange Points for international Internet traffic, which results in slower speeds due to additional data hops.

Emerging Technologies: The report emphasizes the role of emerging technologies such as High-Throughput Satellites (HTS) and Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites in bridging the connectivity gap. These technologies are crucial for expanding access to underserved rural areas.

Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected network performance and digital transformation plans, causing delays and disruptions in connectivity improvements.

Recommendations:

Policy and Regulation: The Internet Society advocates revising regulatory frameworks to accelerate infrastructure deployment. Key recommendations include enhancing spectrum policies, removing regulatory barriers, and fostering public-private partnerships to drive investment, competition, and support for small and medium enterprises.

Spectrum Availability: North African countries have limited spectrum compared to global averages, impacting network capacity and costs.Regulatory Frameworks: Enhance regulatory frameworks to foster investment, encourage spectrum and infrastructure sharing, and support new technologies like HTS and LEO satellites.

Collaboration and Investment: Promote public-private partnerships and update national broadband plans to improve infrastructure and connectivity.

Digital Skills and Literacy: Addressing digital skills and literacy is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Internet connectivity. The report calls for more affordable, relevant, and inclusive education and training programs to build a digital workforce.

Local Internet Exchange Points (IXPs): The report stresses the importance of establishing and upgrading IXPs to enhance local Internet traffic, reduce costs, and improve service quality. Governments are encouraged to support IXPs by providing resources and facilitating network interconnections.

“The Internet has become indispensable for many people, and its role in connecting people, fostering economic opportunities, and driving innovation is undeniable. The Arab region has made big leaps in the availability and adoption of the Internet in recent years; however, adoption rates are still low. We hope that governments will use our report to learn about the improvements that can be made in infrastructure deployment, affordability of service, market structure, and regulatory frameworks,” explains Nermine El Saadany, Regional Vice President for the Middle East for the Internet Society.

About the Internet Society
Founded by Internet pioneers, the Internet Society (ISOC) is a global charitable organization dedicated to ensuring the open development, evolution, and use of the Internet. Through a global community of chapters and members, the Internet Society collaborates with a wide range of groups to promote the technologies that keep the Internet safe and secure and advocates for policies that enable universal access. The Internet Society is also the organizational home of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).

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