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Funding Societies secures third credit facility with HSBC to extend access to MSMEs in Southeast Asia

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Part of HSBC’s ASEAN Growth Fund, an accumulative commitment of over US$100 million to Funding Societies since its partnership established in 2022

SINGAPORE, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Funding Societies | Modalku (Funding Societies), the largest unified digital finance platform for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Southeast Asia today announced signing the third credit facility* with HSBC under its ASEAN Growth Fund. The overall transaction, an accumulative commitment of over US$100 million, also includes the two annual credit facilities extended to Funding Societies, reaffirms HSBC’s continued support for MSMEs through the platform since 2022.

This transaction, which is amongst HSBC’s largest asset-backed secured facilities extended to digital SME lenders in Southeast Asia, will further deepen and extend Funding Societies’ reach to providing credit access to underserved MSME segments in the region.

While the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has grown its middle-class and gained tremendous traction in terms of increasing access to formal banking services and digitalising its commercial environment, the region still has a US$2.5 trillion credit access gap, making up over half of the global shortfall in small business financing[1]. To put into perspective, up to 99.9% of enterprises are MSMEs contributing to 35% to 69% of each country’s gross domestic product (GDP)[2].

Co-founder and Group CEO of Funding Societies, Kelvin Teo, said, “The continued support from a global bank such as HSBC is a testament to its commitment to support the development of digital platform businesses such as ours and MSMEs as we ride through a two-decade high interest rates impacting the global economy. This enables us to further explore scalable debt financing for growth and profitability, and bolster financial inclusion for the underbanked and underserved SMEs in the region.”

As part of its ASEAN Growth Fund strategy, this transaction underlines a scalable solution to allow and enable digital lenders like Funding Societies to raise additional equity capital and debt financing through different channels. Furthermore, HSBC will act as the structuring bank, lender, account bank, FX counterparty, facility and security agent in providing a scalable and pan-regional financing solution to support Funding Societies’ business expansion in the region.

Harish Venkatesan, Head of Corporates and Business Banking, HSBC Singapore, said, “As an early-starter and a leading MSME digital financing player in ASEAN, we are pleased to provide our third credit facility for Funding Societies, cumulatively in excess of US$100 million. This will enable us to continue supporting its efforts to provide financing support to micro, small and medium enterprises which will contribute to the building blocks of societies in the ASEAN region. We look forward to continuing support for Funding Societies as they grow their business and for the underlying MSMEs in the region through the HSBC ASEAN Growth Fund.”

The US$1 billion HSBC ASEAN Growth Fund was launched in March 2024 to enable Singapore-based digital platform businesses supporting e-commerce in the region to achieve economies of scale across multiple international markets, grow their asset portfolios, and advance along the corporate lifecycle. Together with the New Economy and Venture Debt Fund, HSBC Singapore offers a comprehensive suite of financing solutions for new economy businesses across different stages of growth[3].

This announcement comes at the heels of Funding Societies’ most recent strategic investments from Maybank in September.

Since its inception in 2015, Funding Societies has disbursed over US$4 billion in business financing, positively impacting more than 100,000 businesses across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, as well as processed an annualised US$1.4 billion in payments GTV (gross transaction value) since its entry into payments in late 2022.

About Funding Societies | Modalku

Funding Societies | Modalku is the largest unified SME digital finance platform in Southeast Asia. It is licensed in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, registered in Malaysia, and operates in Vietnam. The FinTech company provides US$1 billion annually of business financing to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In recent years, it has made strategic milestones including its acquisition of regional digital payments platform CardUp and co-investment into Bank Index in Indonesia.

Funding Societies | Modalku is backed by SoftBank Vision Fund 2, Maybank, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, CGC Digital (the digital arm of the Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad), SBVA (previously SoftBank Ventures Asia), Peak XV Partners (previously Sequoia Capital India), Alpha JWC Ventures, SMBC Bank, BRI Ventures, VNG Corporation, Rapyd Ventures, Endeavor, EBDI, SGInnovative, Qualgro, and Golden Gate Ventures among others.

It has received accolades through the years including: Brands for Good (2019, 2023), Global SME Excellence Award, Global SME Finance Awards by IFC (2021-2023) Global Startup Awards (2020), MAS FinTech Award (2016, 2021), Singapore’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2024 (a list of 100 companies compiled by The Straits Times and Statista), High-Growth Companies in Asia-Pacific 2024 (a list of 500 companies compiled by the Financial Times and Statista) .

For more information, please visit: www.fundingsocieties.com

About The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited is the founding member of the HSBC Group. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 60 countries and territories. With assets of US$2,975bn as of 30 June 2024, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/funding-societies-secures-third-credit-facility-with-hsbc-to-extend-access-to-msmes-in-southeast-asia-302295543.html

SOURCE Funding Societies

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Neptune Robotics Adds Singapore to Asia Service Network as Demand for Multi-Port Vessel Cleaning Rises

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The first to bring underwater robotic hull cleaning to Singapore at scale

ChinaSingapore connection covers more than half of international merchant vessel stops

SINGAPORE, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Neptune Robotics, a pioneer in AI-powered robotic hull cleaning services, has expanded to Singapore becoming the first industry player capable of supporting shipowners and operators along ChinaSingapore shipping routes.

The deep tech company enters Singapore with a proprietary fleet of six underwater robots that can clean in extreme ocean environment with environment-friendly debris collection system. The move also makes Neptune Robotics the first company to bring robotic hull cleaning capabilities to Singapore at scale.

Since starting commercial operations in 2020, Neptune Robotics’ cleaning services expanded rapidly to 60 ports in Asia and are endorsed by some of the world’s largest liners, shipowners and operators. By adding Singapore, the company now provides service coverage for more than 55% of the international merchant vessels’ stops. With a current fleet of six robots, the company aims to clean approximately 800 vessels over the next 12 months in Singapore.

“Many key clients have been asking for our services in this important market. Our presence in Singapore places us firmly along key international shipping routes, providing shipowners  with assurance of standardized high quality vessel cleaning across the ChinaSingapore corridor.” said Elizabeth Chan, Co-founder & CEO of Neptune Robotics.

Boosting underwater hull cleaning efficiency

Countering currents is extremely important for underwater hull cleaning. Neptune has raised the industry standard from countering 1 knot to 4 knots of underwater current using its proprietary robots – Magneto. This allows for 24-hour a day cleaning – no down time – when operating in anchorages, compared to the 4 hours a day of traditional cleaning by divers.

Biofouling – the collection of algae, seaweed, barnacles and other organisms on vessels – is a major problem for vessel operators globally and contributes to operation inefficiencies and increased fuel requirements. The company’s technology ensures over 95% biofouling removal, improving vessel performance while reducing operational risks and environmental impact.

Reducing maritime carbon emissions 

Maritime shipping is a major contributor to global emissions, emitting around one billion tons of carbon dioxide per year. A 2022 study co-authored by the International Maritime Organization found that even a thin biofouling layer on just half a ship’s hull can increase ship emissions by as much as 30%. By removing the biofouling, Neptune Robotics’ technology contributes to maritime decarbonization at scale in an economic manner. 

Alongside alleviating potential environmental impact by reducing discharge from manual cleaning processes, Neptune Robotics’ advantage over traditional hull cleaning also includes minimizing safety hazards and ensuring consistent and transparent cleaning quality.

“Our technology has been ranked first among robotic hull cleaning technology in countering strong ocean current, complete coverage of hull including above waterline cleaning and hull coating protection, and we are constantly improving to provide clients with the most efficient solutions” added Chan.

Neptune Robotics’ leadership brings together a unique set of skills that have kept the company at the cutting edge of innovation. The move to Singapore is to accelerate this momentum and continue to push boundaries in the industry.

The company’s Singapore team will be led by maritime veteran Johnson Teng as head of operations.

About Neptune Robotics

Neptune Robotics, a trailblazer in maritime technology, specializes in advanced robotic solutions for hull cleaning and algorithm solutions for biofouling management. Neptune Robotics operates in 60 ports in Asia and employs 120 people. Since its inception in 2020, Neptune’s robots have helped the shipping industry avoid around 1 million tons of CO2 emissions. In April 2022 it raised US$17.25 million from Sequoia Capital, SOSV, and Matrix Partners. Neptune Robotics ranked first place with its groundbreaking robotic hull cleaning technology in StartUs Insights’ 2024 report entitled “Worldwide 5 Top Robotics Startups Impacting The Maritime Industry”. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/neptune-robotics-adds-singapore-to-asia-service-network-as-demand-for-multi-port-vessel-cleaning-rises-302296425.html

SOURCE Neptune Robotics

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Why Taiwan is an amazing place for Digital Talents?

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TAIPEI, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — World-Class Level of Quality of Life

Taiwan is one of the most suitable places for Digital Talents and is becoming increasingly popular. When it comes to indexes like quality of life, safety, healthcare system and cost of living, Taiwan has always an impressive ranking position, especially among Asian countries. But the reasons why is an amazing place go much further than indexes and rely on the excellent and modern technological infrastructure the capital offers combined with preserved amazing natural landscapes and touristic spots.

Therefore, Taiwan is not only a great place for those who look for a technological cultural city, but also for those who seek for an adventurous lifestyle.

Global Professionals Find Growth in Taiwan’s Digital Community

Although Mandarin is the primary language in Taiwan, the tech industry is increasingly bilingual. Many events and professionals communicate in English, easing the transition for international talents looking to integrate into this dynamic market. Taiwan fosters many vibrant digital communities that not only interact and collaborate online, but also organize several in-person events like networking gatherings and conferences.

As an example of that, Taiwan Digital Night (TDN), took place in September and attracted many professionals and talents from around the globe with support from Administration for Digital Industries, MOD Ministry of Digital Affairs(MODA) and DIGI Gold Card Community, a known organization committed to promote Taiwan as a prime destination for Digital Talents. This international gathering provided a welcoming space for participants to exchange knowledge and connect with locals and fellow foreign professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration.

TDN stood out as an excellent social venue for digital nomads, startups, and community members. Beyond the joyful atmosphere filled with food and drinks, the event featured speeches and presentations from special guests and organizers, offering valuable insights and perspectives on various projects within the industry.

Over 100 people, with diverse backgrounds and specialties, came together to share experiences and enjoy a cheerful evening, strengthening Taiwan as an international hub for digital talents.

Taiwan’s Thriving Digital Field Welcomes International Talents

With several governmental projects and investments, Taiwan has become an ideal place for Digital professionals from all over the world to work and develop themselves. The thriving Tech Ecosystem and its high-quality infrastructure supported Taiwan to become home to numerous tech startups and established companies.

On the last week of September, a delegation of 9 international digital experts, including Gold Card Holders, Digital Nomads and Digital Community leader visited cultural spots in Taipei, like Red House and Longshan Temple, Taiwanese companies, like Systex Corp. and LITEON and Taiwan organizations such as MODA and Talent Taiwan.

The tour offered them opportunity to connect with local traditions, customs and history, while the meetings addressed a range of critical topics including cultural marketing, advantages and challenges facing Taiwan and potential future projects and investments. Guests were attentively listened while sharing their insights and presenting their experiences, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for ideas to attract international talents and support Taiwan’s digital industry development.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/why-taiwan-is-an-amazing-place-for-digital-talents-302296445.html

SOURCE Administration for Digital Industries, moda

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FinVolution Group to Report Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results on Monday, November 18, 2024

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-Earnings Call Scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on November 18, 2024-

SHANGHAI, Nov. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — FinVolution Group (“FinVolution”, or the “Company”) (NYSE: FINV), a leading fintech platform, today announced that it will report its third quarter 2024 unaudited financial results, on Monday, November 18, 2024, after the close of U.S. markets.

The Company’s management will host an earnings conference call at 7:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on November 18, 2024 (8:30 AM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on November 19, 2024).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States (toll free):

+1-888-346-8982

Canada (toll free):                     

+1-855-669-9657

International:

+1-412-902-4272

Hong Kong, China (toll free):

800-905-945

Hong Kong, China:

+852-3018-4992

Mainland, China:

400-120-1203

Participants should dial-in at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time and ask to be connected to the call for “FinVolution Group.”

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at https://ir.finvgroup.com.

A replay of the conference call will be accessible approximately one hour after the conclusion of the live call until November 25, 2024, by dialing the following telephone numbers:

United States (toll free):

+1-877-344-7529

Canada (toll free):            

+1-855-669-9658

International:

+1-412-317-0088

Replay Access Code:

3196612

About FinVolution Group

FinVolution Group is a leading fintech platform with strong brand recognition in China and the international markets connecting borrowers of the young generation with financial institutions. Established in 2007, the Company is a pioneer in China’s online consumer finance industry and has developed innovative technologies and has accumulated in-depth experience in the core areas of credit risk assessment, fraud detection, big data and artificial intelligence. The Company’s platform, empowered by proprietary cutting-edge technologies, features a highly automated loan transaction process, which enables a superior user experience. As of June 30, 2024, the Company had over 191.3 million cumulative registered users across China, Indonesia and the Philippines.

For more information, please visit https://ir.finvgroup.com.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:
FinVolution Group
Head of Capital Markets
Jimmy Tan, IRC
Tel: +86 (21) 8030 3200- Ext 8601
E-mail: ir@xinye.com

Piacente Financial Communications
Jenny Cai
Tel: +86 (10) 6508-0677
E-mail: finv@tpg-ir.com

In the United States:
Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
E-mail: finv@tpg-ir.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/finvolution-group-to-report-third-quarter-2024-financial-results-on-monday-november-18-2024-302296377.html

SOURCE FinVolution Group

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