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VIRTUOSO® BRINGS ITS 2024 SYMPOSIUM TO DUBAI, ENGAGING OVER 400 TOP TRAVEL EXECUTIVES

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DUBAI, June 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Global luxury travel network Virtuoso® hosted its annual Symposium May 20-24 in Dubai, attracting over 400 of the industry’s top professionals from 37 countries. Virtuoso’s Symposium brings together key decision-makers within luxury travel, including Virtuoso’s own leadership and senior executives from the network’s travel agency members and preferred partners, for industry discussions, deep dives into travel insights and peer-to-peer networking, all in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

During the General Session, Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D. Upchurch discussed AI’s impact on the industry, while maintaining the value of human connection. A self-declared AI optimist, Upchurch has closely followed its development and impression on the travel industry. He remains steadfast in his belief that AI can be a helpful tool for travel advisors, creating efficiencies that allow them to focus on the aspects of client management that are inherently human. Upchurch has famously coined the phrase: “Automate the predictable, so that you can humanize the exceptional.”

“The advent of the internet just decades ago showed us that technological advancements enhance the capability of advisors, rather than replacing them,” he said. “AI combines human touch with advanced technology, and as advisors integrate it into their business, they should also keep in mind a unique definition of AI – Appreciative Inquiry – a process that aids in asking clients the right questions, which in turn promotes solid relationships between them and their advisor. There are no shortage of answers in the world, but knowing the right questions to ask is where value exists for the future.”  

Executive Vice President David Kolner shared insights into Virtuoso’s high-value travelers, indicating optimism continues. Sales made between January-April 2024 for travel in 2025 and 2026 are up 49 percent and future cruise sales are up 52 percent, compared to transactions made during same timeframe in 2023 for future travel. Big bookings are increasing as well, with bookings over $50,000 up 86 percent, and $50,000+ cruise and safari bookings up 102 percent and 159 percent, respectively.

When looking at the annual Virtuoso Brand & Traveler Trend Tracker Study, a proprietary survey of high-value travelers across 15 countries conducted by YouGov, Kolner revealed the top benefits of using a travel advisor according to Virtuoso clients: expertise on accommodations (66 percent), expertise on destinations (65 percent) and saving time (54 percent). The most valuable traits of an advisor according to respondents are good communication (65 percent), attention to detail (64 percent) and problem-solving skills (57 percent).

The General Session also hosted guest speakers. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), joined Upchurch for a fireside chat, where they discussed Dubai‘s future growth. Attendees also heard from Gloria Fluxà, Vice Chair and Chair of the Sustainability Committee at WTTC, as well as Vice Chairman & Chief Sustainability Officer at Iberostar Group; Courtney Scharf, Chief Client Officer at Trend Hunter; and Jenny Southan, Founder and CEO of Globetrender. 

Another highlight of the Symposium was Virtuoso’s Travel Tech Summit, which brought together  innovators, startups and the Virtuoso network for meaningful discussions about emerging technology. Led by entrepreneur and Virtuoso board member Gilad Berenstein, the summit covered key trends to watch in travel tech, AI, social commerce and more.

While business is at the forefront of Symposium, another hallmark of the event is bonding through shared experiences. With the help of Virtuoso partners, attendees immersed themselves in some of Dubai‘s most dynamic offerings. From perfume making and history tours to cooking classes and private water experiences, there were no shortage of opportunities to explore this vibrant city.

Virtuoso’s emphasis on relationship building continued with one-on-one appointments between members and partners, while professional development sessions, workshops and panel discussions explored topics including the evolution of the luxury traveler, sustainable travel, industry growth and more.

Virtuoso thanks Dubai Economy and Tourism and additional partners that aided in the success of 2024 Symposium. Host hotels included Atlantis The Royal, Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Al Naseem, as well as sponsors AmaWaterways, Arabian Adventures, Armani Hotel Dubai, The Bicester Collection, Kerzner and The Palace Downtown Dubai.

For more information on Virtuoso and its events, please visit www.virtuoso.com.

About Virtuoso
Virtuoso® is the leading global travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisors in 54 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with more than 2,300 of the world’s best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Normalized annual sales of (U.S.) $28$32 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.

Media Contacts:
Misty Belles, Virtuoso – Vice President, Global Public Relations
+1.202.553.8817 / mbelles@virtuoso.com

Lauren Wintemberg
Alice Marshall Public Relations – Senior Account Director
+1.212.861.4031 / lauren@alicemarshall.com

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Doo Group Strengthens Global Reach with CySEC License for Doo Financial

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LIMASSOL, Cyprus , Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Doo Group is proud to announce that Doo Financial, one of its brands, has been awarded a new license by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). This achievement strengthens Doo Group’s commitment to providing a secure and regulated trading environment for its clients globally.

Expanding Regulatory Reach

The addition of the CySEC license highlights Doo Group’s extensive regulatory framework, which already spans across multiple financial jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong and Malaysia. This strategic milestone reflects Doo Group’s dedication to ensuring compliance with international regulatory standards and prioritizing client security. As a European Supervisory Authority, CySEC offers a robust regulatory environment and is expected to enhance client confidence. For Doo Group, this new regulatory milestone reinforces its reputation as a trusted, reliable financial services provider.

“Acquiring the new license from CySEC is a significant milestone for Doo Financial, marking a key step in our ongoing growth and strategic expansion. This achievement not only reinforces our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of regulatory excellence but also solidifies our position as a trusted, reliable financial institution within Europe. By aligning with CySEC’s rigorous requirements, we are better positioned to offer enhanced services to our clients, foster greater transparency, and ensure long-term stability in an increasingly complex and dynamic financial landscape.” Costas Kappai, Doo Financial EU

Strengthening Client Confidence

Doo Financial EU, the European branch of Doo Financial, is now positioned to serve clients across Europe under the guidelines of a European Supervisory Authority. European clients will benefit from CySEC’s regulatory protections, including client fund safety and transparent business practices, ensuring a secure and trustworthy trading experience. This development allows Doo Financial EU to offer its suite of financial services and trading products to a wider audience, backed by the credibility and oversight of CySEC.

By expanding its regulatory reach, Doo Group continues to strengthen its position in the global financial market, enabling clients to trade with confidence. The CySEC license is another step toward achieving Doo Group’s vision of becoming a leader in financial services.

About Doo Group

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Singapore, Doo Group is an international financial services provider with a focus on FinTech. With operations across 10 major business lines—including Brokerage, Wealth Management, Payments, and Digital Marketing—we are dedicated to delivering comprehensive financial solutions that empower our clients to explore a better future.

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Liberty General Insurance Continues to Drive Insurance Awareness and Inclusion with ‘Suraksha ka Vaada Bima ke Saath’ Initiative Across Delhi and Punjab

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NEW DELHI, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Liberty General Insurance, one of the leading non-life insurance companies in India and the lead insurer for Delhi under the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India’s (IRDAI) State Insurance Plan, is spearheading an insurance awareness initiative in Delhi. While there are no gram panchayats in Delhi, Liberty continues to drive insurance awareness through grassroots and digital outreach.

In parallel, Liberty is fulfilling its rural and social obligations by focusing on underserved areas in Punjab. This effort includes a recently initiated awareness campaign across 400 gram panchayats in Punjab to expand insurance penetration and increase accessibility in these regions.

In Delhi, Liberty continues to create awareness under ‘Suraksha ka Vaada Bima ke Saath’ initiative launched in 2023. This October Liberty began with a Door-to-Door Campaign across North-West and North East Delhi, reaching over 1600 households in Karala Village, Budh Vihar, Kanjawala Village and Begumpur, Burari, Kanhiya Nagar, Rampura, and Jahangirpuri, achieving over 25000 impressions. Over nearly a month, Liberty’s teams engaged with residents, distributing leaflets and explaining the benefits of motor and health insurance. This campaign was followed by the ‘Nukkad Natak’ (Street Play) initiative in South Delhi, targeting key neighborhoods of Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Nirman Vihar, Lakshmi Nagar, and Begumpur chowk market. The street plays used interactive performances to educate communities on the importance of insurance and dispel common myths. To reinforce the message, Liberty’s team also disseminated copies of the ‘Wise Ways of Insurance’ booklet—a unique resource developed to demystify insurance products and promote informed decision-making. The booklet, which is being translated into vernacular languages, is also being distributed in other states as part of Liberty’s commitment to financial literacy across India.

Complementing its on-ground efforts, Liberty General Insurance continues to leverage social media to drive targeted insurance awareness campaigns. Recognizing that widespread mobile access allows more people to connect online, Liberty reaches both rural and urban audiences, empowering individuals everywhere with the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions.

Commenting on this awareness drive, Mr. Parag Ved, CEO & Whole-Time Director, Liberty General Insurance said, “Our ‘Suraksha ka Vaada Bima ke Saath’ campaign is an effort in line with IRDAI’s ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ vision, towards empowering communities across Delhi, Punjab, and beyond with the financial security that insurance provides. With general insurance penetration in India still at less than 1% of its GDP, there is a pressing need to educate communities and break down the barriers to understanding the importance of insurance. Liberty will ensure that its wide distribution network makes policies accessible to all, so that every citizen—no matter where they are—can access the financial safety net that insurance offers.”

“Liberty is committed to fostering a culture of financial resilience where every Indian can feel secure about their future. Together, we are building a future where insurance isn’t just a product but a promise of protection and peace of mind,Mr. Ved added.

Looking ahead, Liberty will be rolling out a transit media campaign across South Delhi in December, utilizing branded auto rickshaws to increase visibility and connect with residents in this vibrant area of the capital. By leveraging transit media, Liberty aims to bring insurance awareness into people’s daily routines, making information accessible in familiar, everyday settings. This campaign builds on the success of previous awareness initiatives and reinforces Liberty’s commitment to educating and empowering individuals about insurance.

About Liberty General Insurance

Liberty General Insurance Ltd. (LGI) is a joint venture between Summit Asia Investment Holdings PTE Ltd.— a group company of Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, a diversified global insurer with over 900 offices across the world, headquartered in the U.S., Enam Securities, and Diamond Dealtrade. LGI commenced operations in 2013 with the aim of providing comprehensive retail, commercial and industrial insurance solutions. The company has an employee strength of 1100+ with presence across 100+ locations in 28 states and UTs. Its partner network consists of about 6000+ hospitals and more than 5000 auto service centres. The company offers health and personal accident insurance, car and two-wheeler insurance, employee compensation insurance, commercial insurance, engineering insurance, marine insurance, liability insurance and property insurance among other products in India.

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Hikvision unveils WonderHub and elevates smart collaboration across industries

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HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 15, 2024 /CNW/ — Hikvision unveiled its fully upgraded smart collaboration business. The event showcased a range of innovative products designed to transform collaboration in education, meetings, retail, and more. Among the highlights were cutting-edge solutions like WonderHub interactive displays, digital signage, and video conference devices. These products underscore Hikvision’s commitment to driving digital transformation and enhancing user experiences in an increasingly connected world.

At the heart of this ecosystem is WonderHub, which features WonderOS, an AI-powered platform that seamlessly connects devices and enhances collaboration. With tools like WonderSpark for interactive whiteboards and WonderCast for wireless content sharing, WonderHub enables users to communicate, create, and collaborate more effectively than ever.

Boosting Classroom Engagement with Innovative Solutions

In education, WonderHub is designed to elevate classroom experiences. The interactive displays enable students to share and express ideas effortlessly, creating a more engaging and dynamic learning environment. The built-in WonderSpark smart whiteboard software uses AI to recognize equations, provide solutions, and generate interactive 3D teaching materials across subjects like mathematics, chemistry, and natural sciences. Teachers can also access licensed images and videos through Creative Commons integration, enriching lesson content and boosting student engagement.

Classrooms equipped with WonderHub also benefit from multi-window modes and a suite of 19 educational tools. These include subject-specific templates and interactive applications. For remote learning, WonderHub integrates seamlessly with third-party conferencing platforms, allowing students to collaborate in real-time, no matter their location.

Empowering Business Meetings with Intelligent Features

Hikvision’s smart collaboration solutions transform business meetings into more efficient and immersive experiences. The WonderHub Ultra Series allows users to easily connect personal devices and leverage the interactive display’s camera, speakers, and microphone for high-quality remote conferencing. The HiSpire meeting management system streamlines meeting logistics, including room scheduling, attendee notifications, post-meeting summaries, and distribution of materials.

Advanced AI features, such as auto-framing and speaker tracking, ensure optimal video quality. Meanwhile, app-free screen casting allows for easy sharing of presentation materials. The X12 and X28 audio-video cameras offer enterprises tailored setups to suit meeting rooms of any size, ensuring seamless communication with high-definition video and precise audio capture.

Transforming Retail Spaces with Dynamic Digital Signage

Hikvision has also advanced its digital signage solutions to enhance customer engagement in retail scenarios. The vibrant displays and centralized content management allow retailers to effectively capture attention. High-brightness window displays attract passersby with promotions and new product highlights. Meanwhile, floor-standing signage supports interactive features, such as self-service ordering. The HikCentral FocSign platform enables retailers to remotely manage and distribute content across multiple locations, improving operational efficiency and ensuring consistent branding.

These digital signage solutions, including the DP and DL series, boast superior brightness and clarity, ensuring visibility even in strong lighting conditions. The displays run on Hikvision’s self-developed platform and support WonderCast wireless casting, enabling quick and easy content sharing from various devices.

Since entering the smart collaboration market in 2017, Hikvision has rapidly become a leading global player. With over 300,000 units sold across more than 140 countries and regions, Hikvision’s smart collaboration business exemplifies the company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and user-centric design. As a key highlight of this evolution, the fully upgraded WonderHub represents the next leap forward in smart collaboration technology.

By bridging advanced technology with practical applications, WonderHub, along with Hikvision’s broader range of smart collaboration solutions, is leading the way in providing more efficient and intelligent solutions for users worldwide.

For more information about Hikvision’s smart collaboration products and solutions, please visit Hikvision’s official website.

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SOURCE Hikvision Digital Technology

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