Monday, June 15, 2026
Google search engine
Home Blog Page 40

Agoda Opens New Office at One Bangkok, Enhancing Its Technology Hub in Thailand

admin
-
0
Agoda Opens New Office at One Bangkok, Enhancing Its Technology Hub in Thailand

SINGAPORE, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agoda Services Co. Ltd welcomed employees to its new home at One Bangkok this month, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued investment in Thailand as a global technology hub. Spanning more than 26,000 square meters over seven floors, the new office brings nearly 4,000 Thailand-based employees under one roof – designed to foster greater collaboration, innovation, and connection across teams.

Agoda office
Agoda office

Maintaining a strong presence in the heart of Bangkok, while bringing teams together in a state-of-the-art, purpose-built hub, was a key driver behind the move to One Bangkok. The new office reflects Agoda’s long-term commitment to the region and supports ongoing business activities, from tech and innovation to strengthening regional business functions that support a network of over 6 million properties and hundreds of thousands of flight routes and experiences.  

The campus-style office is designed around how Agoda’s teams work. The space features purpose-built rooms that support the operation of a global technology platform, including a dedicated Network Operations Center (NOC) Zone for systems monitoring, connected collaboration rooms designed to enable fast, coordinated response, and a professional studio and audio room for content production. One Bangkok’s built-to-suit arrangement allowed Agoda to tailor the environment to its requirements, with a focus on tech, collaboration, and employee well-being.

Omri Morgenshtern, CEO at Agoda, shared: “We’re excited to open this new space at One Bangkok designed to support how our teams innovate, collaborate and grow. The state-of-the-art facilities reflect our investment in creating an environment where people can do their best work and continue building world-class tech that delivers exceptional travel experiences.”

One Bangkok, the real estate development project under the Frasers Property group, together with Frasers Property (Thailand) Public Company Limited, is a holistically integrated district located at the corner of Wireless and Rama 4 Roads in Bangkok. The development holds LEED Platinum certification for Neighborhood Development and WiredScore and SmartScore certifications for digital connectivity and smart building technology, with direct access to Bangkok’s mass transit systems.

Agoda Services’ move to One Bangkok supports the continued growth of the digital travel platform that offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app or visit Agoda.com.

Source

Inside India newsletter: Tariffs and Iran war threaten India’s $100 billion garments export goal

admin
-
0
Inside India newsletter: Tariffs and Iran war threaten India’s $100 billion garments export goal

Hello, this is Priyanka Salve, writing to you from Singapore.

Welcome to the latest edition of “Inside India“ — your one-stop destination for stories and developments from the world’s fastest growing large economy.

Just as India’s textile industry was beginning to stabilize after U.S. tariffs, it received another blow. Industry leaders tell me the Iran war has raised costs, hit demand and sent workers fleeing, crushing hopes of a sustained recovery.

Enjoy!

Any thoughts on today’s newsletter? Share them with the team.

The big story

In this photograph taken on September 23, 2025, employees work at a garment factory in Tiruppur, in India’s southern state of Tamil Nadu.

R. Satish Babu | Afp | Getty Images

Indian textile exporters could be forgiven for thinking that U.S. President Donald Trump has them in his crosshairs.

In August last year, Washington slapped a 50% tariff on Indian goods, making exports uncompetitive. Relief came months later, when rates were slashed in February, but it lasted barely a few weeks: Trump’s subsequent war on Iran plunged India’s textile industry into fresh turmoil.

Ready-made garment companies were among the worst-hit by the U.S. tariffs, losing orders or being forced to offer discounts to retain customers, experts said, adding that the Iran war has driven up raw material and packaging costs.

The war, which began on Feb. 28 after the U.S. and Israel struck Iran, has disrupted the movement of goods through the Strait of Hormuz, driving up energy and freight costs and straining supply chains.

This has led to some unusual challenges for the textile industry, India’s second‑largest employer which supports more than 45 million jobs.

Industry leaders said some migrant workers employed by the textile companies were struggling to secure liquified petroleum gas, the primary cooking fuel. This has prompted some to return to their home towns.

The second blow

“It was a tough year, and just when things were starting to come together in February, this war started,” Ashwin Chandran, chairman of the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry, told CNBC.

Between April 2025 and February this year, India exported cotton and man‑made yarns, fabrics, and ready-made garments worth $29.5 billion, down from $29.8 billion a year earlier, according to data from the Indian commerce ministry. While the decline may appear modest, the direction of travel is worrying for a country that aims to export $100 billion worth of textiles annually by 2030.

“We were expecting FY27 [financial year ending March 2027] to be much better, but now, with the Iran war, the beginning hasn’t been encouraging,” said Madhu Sudhan Bhageria, chairman at synthetic and polyester filament yarns manufacturer Filatex India.

He explained that polyester prices — which depend on petroleum — have risen more than 40% since the start of the war, making it difficult to pass on costs to customers.

“Demand has fallen as people don’t want to buy at high prices,” Bhageria said, adding that fears of a sudden end to the war have left companies wary of being stuck with expensive inventories if prices fall sharply.

If companies fail to pass on higher costs, experts warned, production cuts will follow.

In a temporary relief, the U.S. and Iran agreed to a ceasefire on Wednesday, with Tehran saying safe passage for ships would be “possible” for the next two weeks in coordination with the country’s armed forces.

Even so, companies such as Filatex have already cut production by 25% and are waiting for demand to return.

Demand concerns

India is the world’s sixth‑largest textile exporter, and after signing trade agreements with the U.K. last year, and the EU and U.S. earlier this year, the industry was expecting a sharp recovery. So far, however, it doesn’t seems to be the case.

“We have been targeting growth of around 12% to 15% CAGR [compound annual growth rate],” said Pallab Banerjee, managing director of Pearl Global Industries, which supplies garments to JCPenney, Macy’s, and Walmart. But for the financial year ending March 2026, growth is averaging lower at around 9%, he said.

Experts say ready-made garment companies are managing to pass on some costs to their customers in the U.S., but there remains concern that demand will slow if oil prices in the U.S rise further.

While the easing of Trump’s tariffs in February came as a relief, Banerjee warned that a prolonged war could dampen U.S. consumer demand, as was the case with the outbreak of the Ukraine war in 2022.

That conflict led to slowing store sales, rising inventories, and significant challenges for U.S. retailers, he said, adding: “No one wants a repeat of that.”

For now, the fragile ceasefire has cooled oil prices to below $100 per barrel. But they remain well above pre‑conflict levels, keeping pressure firmly on costs and demand. Without lasting peace, India’s textile exporters face another year of survival rather than growth.

Need to know

Indian companies explore tie-ups with China in electric-vehicle charging and energy storage
For the first time in more than five years, a delegation of Indian businesses visited China between March 29 and April 4, meeting with firms from Shanghai, Zhejiang and Wuxi.

Macquarie says India could emerge as an ‘AI powerhouse’ and names top stocks to watch
The global brokerage said the narrative of India as an AI bystander could shift as it becomes an “AI powerhouse that leverages its unique data sets and massive infrastructure build-out to underwrite a new era of growth.”

India turns to Iran for energy supplies after a 7-year hiatus
India has begun buying oil and gas from Tehran after a 7‑year hiatus as it grapples with supply disruptions and elevated energy prices triggered by the U.S.-Israel war on Iran.

Coming up

April 9: Om Power Transmission IPO opens

April 13: Inflation data for March

Choose CNBC as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment from the most trusted name in business news.

Source

Child born during international flight to US sparks heated debate about citizenship, legal identity

admin
-
0
Child born during international flight to US sparks heated debate about citizenship, legal identity

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A woman gave birth midair Friday on a flight from Kingston, Jamaica, to New York, turning a routine plane trip into a high-altitude drama.

The mother aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight had a successful delivery, as Fox News Digital previously reported — but shortly after the unexpected arrival, a hot debate about the baby’s citizenship commenced. 

“Sometimes, when a child is not born in a hospital and there’s no birth record, that can create problems,” Cyrus D. Mehta, a New York-based immigration attorney told Fox News Digital. (He is not connected to the Caribbean Airlines case.) 

FLIGHT PASSENGERS SLAM AIRLINES FOR PUSHING EARLY BAG CHECKS EVEN WITH EMPTY BINS ON BOARD

Even so, he added, “it’s very clear. If you’re born in the territory of the United States, even if it’s on an airplane, you are a citizen,” he continued.

“The question is: What constitutes U.S. airspace?” he also said. 

Woman gives birth midair sparking debate about citizenship

A woman gave birth midair Friday on a flight from Kingston, Jamaica, to New York, sparking a spirited debate about the baby’s citizenship. (iStock)

Commenters online debated the issue.

“Is this baby an American?” wrote one person. “Was it born in American airspace? Does that qualify? Seems every other situation possible qualifies under the ‘birthright’ citizenship. What a joke!”

Said another person about the Caribbean Airlines birth, “If the parents are American citizens, then the baby is.”

COAST GUARD RESCUES FAMILY STRANDED FOR DAYS IN PACIFIC AFTER BOAT FAILURE SETS THEM ADRIFT 

Wrote another commenter, “Good example of why the [Supreme Court] needs to rule Trump’s [executive order] as valid. These are not isolated cases — they happen every day of the week. Non-citizens know they’ll win the lottery if they can give birth while in the U.S.”

Caribbean Airlines notes on its website that expectant mothers can travel on their planes without a doctor’s approval until the end of their 32nd week of pregnancy — but travel is not permitted beyond the 35th week. 

Woman gives birth midair raises questions about citizenship

Incidents in which women give birth on flights are very uncommon.  (iStock)

Even so, incidents in which women give birth on flights are very uncommon. 

A March 2020 study published by the Journal of Travel Medicine found that between 1929 and 2018, there were 74 in-flight births across 73 commercial flights — with 71 of those newborn infants surviving.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

The primary reason most airlines do not want pregnant women to fly very late in their pregnancies is medical. 

Other procedural issues can occur as well, Mehta said.

Woman flies from Kingston, Jamaica to JFK while pregnant

The woman who gave birth was flying from Kingston, Jamaica (shown here) to the United States.  (iStock)

Proof of the precise location of the plane during childbirth midair and the moment the baby is born can be challenging.

The government requires a log from an airline or ship “reflecting the latitude and longitude when the birth occurred,” Mehta said. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

“The parent is responsible for reporting the birth to authorities” — and the parents will need a birth certificate if they want to obtain a passport for the child, he added.

Woman gives birth on plane and arrives at JFK Airport

Once the mother arrived at JFK International Airport in New York City, she was connected with medical personnel. (Michael Nagle/ Bloomberg)

Caribbean Airlines said that, while the birth aboard its flight was unexpected, the crew never declared an emergency during the trip. 

Instead, the airline praised its crew, who “managed the situation in accordance with established procedures, ensuring the safety and comfort of all onboard.”

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

The airline said the woman and newborn received the care they needed from medical personnel.

The unusual childbirth comes at a time of heated discussion about citizenship laws in the United States.

baby feet in mother's hands

The courts have routinely upheld birthright citizenship for over a century. (iStock)

The Supreme Court recently heard oral arguments on a challenge to President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14160, which limits birthright citizenship in the U.S.

Section one of the 14th Amendment automatically grants citizenship to all persons born in the United States. 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The courts have routinely upheld birthright citizenship for over a century.

Ashley J. DiMella and Lorraine Taylor, both of Fox News Digital, contributed reporting.

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

Source

How to save money on flights as airlines raise prices

admin
-
0
How to save money on flights as airlines raise prices

Travelers in Terminal 1 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, March 1, 2026.

Michael Nagle | Bloomberg | Getty Images

For budget-conscious travelers, it’s gotten harder to escape the rising cost of airfare in recent weeks.

Airlines are raising bag fees, adding fuel surcharges and cutting flight schedules to manage the fallout from the Iran war.

Average economy fares rose to $998 for round-trip international flights as of March 30, up from $774 on Feb. 23, before the war started, according to data from Kayak, a travel search engine. Average domestic fares increased to $350 from $336.

Airlines have raised prices for consumers largely to offset the higher cost of jet fuel, one of the largest costs for airlines, according to travel experts.

Airlines face higher jet fuel costs

Before a two-week ceasefire announced late Tuesday, Iran had effectively choked off traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway used to ship about a fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Jet fuel prices have nearly doubled since the Iran war began, to $4.81 per gallon on Tuesday from $2.50 on Feb. 27, according to an Argus Media jet fuel price index.

If jet fuel prices stay elevated for a full year — at a level roughly $2 per gallon higher than before the war — airfares would have to increase about $50 for each one-way fare, or about 17%, Deutsche Bank analysts wrote in a report on Tuesday.

“The most notable response to the surge in jet fuel prices has been fare increases (and fuel surcharges in international markets),” they wrote.

Read more CNBC personal finance coverage

U.S. carriers such as Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines recently raised fees to check bags.

Some airlines have also said they will cut flights that have become temporarily unprofitable due to higher fuel prices. United CEO Scott Kirby said the airline would trim off-peak flight schedules, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, during the second and third quarters this year.

While there will still be flights available on those days, a reduced schedule means there will likely be more demand for those fewer seats — and higher prices, experts said.

“That will have a big impact on the price-sensitive traveler,” since flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and other off-peak times is generally a dependable way to score cheaper tickets, said Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going, a travel deal website.

Oil prices retreated Wednesday after the ceasefire announcement, though analysts said it’s unlikely airfares and ancillary fees would normalize quickly, even if the ceasefire holds. Higher fees may be particularly sticky, especially if travel demand doesn’t fall, they said.

If that’s the case, don’t fret: There may still be ways for budget-conscious travelers to find a decent deal on flights, experts said.

“The playbook hasn’t gone fully out the window,” Nastro said. “Travelers still have some options.”

Lock in a good price

Travelers wait in line to go through security in Terminal 5 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, March 27, 2026.

Michael M. Santiago | Getty Images

For domestic flights, the lowest prices tend to be 23 to 51 days before departure, according to Google Flights. Those for international flights are generally 49 days or more before departure, it said.

Airfares tend to rise steadily beyond those tipping points, as the day of a flight nears.

However, airfare is often volatile — and that’s especially the case these days, Nastro said. Given this dynamic, it’s less likely that travelers will score last-minute deals, she said.

Travelers who see a price that fits their budgets would be wise to jump on it, Nastro said.

“The only predictable thing you can do is lock in that affordable flight today,” she said.

Consider single instead of round-trip tickets

“Many people think it’s cheaper to purchase airline tickets together as a round trip, but sometimes finding the cheapest flights comes from purchasing two single one-way tickets,” Lourdes Losada, director of the Americas at Skyscanner, a travel search engine, said in an e-mail.

For example, a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Las Vegas might cost $50. But a one-way flight to Las Vegas and a one-way return flight to Los Angeles might each cost $20 — a savings of 20%, Losada said.

Flexibility can be a ‘superpower’

A man looks at a departure board displaying multiple canceled and delayed flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, March 16, 2026.

Andrew Harnik | Getty Images

Flexibility is often a traveler’s best friend, experts said.

That flexibility generally means being strategic about when and where you fly, and it can take many forms, they said:

  • Travel days and dates: Despite pared-back flight schedules for some airlines, travelers will still likely see affordable prices for flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Nastro said. Sundays tend to be among the most expensive, she said. Likewise, try to avoid peak times of the year to travel and look for opportunities to travel during shoulder or off-peak seasons. For those hoping to take a summer trip, generally avoid traveling in July and perhaps opt instead for early to mid-June or the very end of August, which tend to be less busy, Nastro said.
  • Alternate destinations: Flexibility with travel destination is “key” to finding the best flight deals, Losada said. “It lets you capitalize on discounts and explore locations you may not have otherwise considered,” she said. For example, instead of Paris, travelers can try Lyon or Marseille for affordable French culture; or Eindhoven or Rotterdam in the Netherlands instead of Amsterdam; or Fukuoka or Sapporo in Japan instead of Tokyo, Losada said.
  • Airline: Being flexible with an airline, instead of swearing allegiance to one, can help travelers find better airfares, Nastro said. “For a budget traveler, if you’re not tied to an airline, that will be your superpower,” she said.

Take advantage of search engines that allow you to compare prices on different days and to various destinations, experts said.

Consider a layover

Jackyenjoyphotography | Moment | Getty Images

Adding a layover instead of flying nonstop to a destination is a reliable way to save money, experts said. Doing so saves fliers about 22%, on average, according to Google Flights data.

Of course, travelers need to weigh the risks and opportunity costs of doing so.

This year has already seen significant travel disruption — and thousands of delayed and canceled flights — due to events including the Iran war, cartel violence in Mexico and the U.S. military operation in Venezuela.

If travelers have a layover, disruptions can throw an entire itinerary out of whack, experts said.

One type of economy fare may be better

Booking “main economy” — instead of the typically cheaper “basic economy” — can, perhaps counterintuitively, save you money in the long run, Nastro said.

It’s somewhat of a gamble, though.

'Messy situation coming into peak season', says aviation analyst

If prices fall after a traveler buys their ticket, travelers with a main economy fare can take advantage of the ability to make changes to their ticket, Nastro said. In this case, travelers can get their ticket repriced at the lower fare, usually by the airline providing a credit for the difference, with the traveler able to use it within a year of issue, she said.

For example, if a $250 flight later drops by $50, the traveler can call and get it repriced to $200 — and can use that $50 for future flights, she said.

“So, you’re getting ‘cash’ back even if it’s only redeemable through the airline,” she wrote in an e-mail. “There is no limit how many times you can do this … you can still take advantage if that price drops again, but airlines don’t publicize this.”

You may find deals elsewhere

While many airlines are “hamstrung by fuel prices” and feel the need to raise their prices, other key aspects of a travel itinerary, such as tours and hotels, may offer deals to juice consumer demand, said Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet.

“We’re seeing more and more crazy deals that are targeted at U.S. travelers for U.S. travel,” French said. “I’m seeing the best deals this summer since Covid.”

For example, she pointed to a recent offer in Las Vegas — a city she said is notorious for “nickel and diming” travelers — in which MGM Resorts International is charging $330 plus tax for a two-night all-inclusive stay on the Las Vegas Strip at either the Luxor Hotel & Casino or Excalibur Hotel & Casino. French said that deal might normally cost more than $900.

“I think that’s Vegas saying, ‘Yes, we need to get people in,'” French said.

Choose CNBC as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment from the most trusted name in business news.

Source

Delta CEO says airline will ‘meaningfully’ cut growth plans, sees $300 million boost from its refinery

admin
-
0
Delta CEO says airline will ‘meaningfully’ cut growth plans, sees $300 million boost from its refinery

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said the carrier will “meaningfully reduce” its capacity growth plans in the near term as fuel costs soar, solidifying a pullback from airlines that have been roiled by a historic run-up in jet fuel due to the Middle East war.

Delta on Wednesday forecast adjusted per-share earnings of $1 to $1.50 in the second quarter, compared with the $1.41 a share analysts were expecting, with revenue up in the “low-teens” percentage points compared with a year earlier, above the roughly 10% Wall Street forecast. Capacity will likely be flat on the year, Delta said.

Delta said its fuel bill will be $2 billion higher this quarter because of the spike in costs.

Delta is the first of the major U.S. airlines to report first-quarter results, though United Airlines, Delta and others had already been trimming capacity for the current quarter.

Less capacity can mean higher airfare, which is already on the rise. Delta also joined JetBlue Airways and United in raising its checked bag fees on Tuesday. Carriers around the world are even more affected by the rise in fuel costs because of their countries’ reliance on imports and have added fuel surcharges or announced fare increases.

Bastian said that demand remains strong, despite the higher travel costs, and that Delta’s customer base continues to spend on travel, particularly for higher-end products like more spacious seats.

Speaking to reporters, Bastian said it isn’t clear if or when customers will pull back.

Here’s what Delta reported for the first quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on consensus estimates from LSEG:

  • Earnings per share: 64 cents adjusted vs. 57 cents expected
  • Revenue: $14.2 billion adjusted vs. $14 billion expected

Delta owns a refinery where it turns crude oil into jet fuel and other products, like gasoline and diesel, giving it an advantage over other carriers.

“We don’t know where fuel is going to go, but to the extent fuel stays elevated, that refinery will continue to help us,” Bastian told reporters.

Delta expects to post $1 billion in pretax profit in the second quarter and receive a $300 million benefit from its refinery, the carrier said, a major tail wind for the facility near Philadelphia that it acquired in April 2012 from Phillips 66.

The rise in jet fuel prices since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28, has been sharper than the run-up in crude oil. Jet fuel prices in major U.S. cities were up nearly 88% since Feb. 27, through April 6, according to the Airlines for America industry group, citing Argus data.

Delta expects all-in fuel costs of $4.30 per gallon in the second quarter.

Bastian said the airline isn’t walking back its full-year forecast but isn’t updating it either because of uncertainty of fuel prices. Delta projected potentially record earnings this year when it released its last earnings in January.

“As we gain more knowledge of the impact of the duration of the fuel spike over the course of the next couple months, we’ll be in a better position,” Bastian said.

Oil futures were sharply lower on Wednesday after President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he agreed to suspend planned attacks on Iranian infrastructure for two weeks, backing off of threats to imminently order the destruction of Iran’s “whole civilization,” and Iran agreed to open the key Strait of Hormuz shipping channel.

Meanwhile, premium travel demand continues to drive results. Delta said premium ticket revenue, from first class and other more expensive options compared with coach, was up 14% in the first quarter over last year. Main cabin revenue increased for the first time since late 2024.

Capacity, however, fell 3% in the first three months of 2026 compared with last year “as continued investment in fleet renewal drove premium seat mix higher.” the company said.

Rival United, the second-most profitable U.S. carrier, has been trying to increase its premium seat footprint, investing in new onboard technology, revamped suites and other perks.

“I think they’re smart trying to copy us,” Bastian said.

Bastian said Delta did see a drop in some business travel during the hourslong Transportation Security Administration lines at airports last month due to the partial government shutdown but that travel segment appears to have recovered.

For the first quarter, Delta posted a net loss of $289 million, or 44 cents per share, compared with net income of $240 million, or 37 cents, a year earlier, as its costs rose in 2026.

Adjusted for one-time items Delta had net income of $423 million, or 64 cents a share, up from $291 million, or 45 cents a share, during the same period last year.

Revenue, adjusted for third-party sales from its refinery and other items, rose more than 9% to $14.2 million in the first quarter.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that Delta reported adjusted net income of $423 million. A previous version of this story described it as net income.

Source

Medialink Group (HKEX: 2230.HK) Concludes “CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026” Mega IP Event on a High Note

admin
-
0
Medialink Group (HKEX: 2230.HK) Concludes “CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026” Mega IP Event on a High Note

Successful first edition underscores Hong Kong’s importance as Asia’s cross‑industry IP trend‑culture hub

CON-CON® to return in 2027 and expands overseas for the first time tentative to Thailand

HONG KONG, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fully invested by Medialink Group Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 2230.HK) and all‑out orchestrated by its wholly owned subsidiary CON-CON (HK) Limited, CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 — Hong Kong’s first homegrown flagship Asian cross‑industry IP trend and pop culture mega‑event, led by Hong Kong and rooted in the city’s cultural DNA — concluded successfully on 4–5 April 2026 at AsiaWorld‑Expo, Hong Kong. Over two days, the event generated strong momentum and widespread buzz across IP, trend culture, pop culture, designer toys, music, anime and entertainment, attracting enthusiastic participation and positive recognition from brands, partners, creators and industry professionals. As the first flagship IP cultural event pioneered and driven by Hong Kong, CON-CON® HONG KONG underscores the city’s role as an originator, creator and cultural tastemaker in Asia’s cross‑industry IP and trend‑culture landscape and further demonstrates Hong Kong’s strategic value as a platform that enables meaningful connections through IP across regions and sectors.

Ms. Lovinia Chiu, Founder, Chairwoman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Medialink Group Limited (third from left); Dr. Bernard Chan Pak-li, JP, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (fourth from left); Mr. Andy Lam Siu-hong, JP, Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (first from right); Mr. David Wong Fuk-loi, JP, Director of Intellectual Property of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (second from right); Ms. Enid Low, Chief Strategy Officer of AsiaWorld Expo Management Limited (first from left); and celebrity guest Mr. Philip Ng (second from left), officiated at the opening of CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026.
Ms. Lovinia Chiu, Founder, Chairwoman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Medialink Group Limited (third from left); Dr. Bernard Chan Pak-li, JP, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (fourth from left); Mr. Andy Lam Siu-hong, JP, Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (first from right); Mr. David Wong Fuk-loi, JP, Director of Intellectual Property of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR (second from right); Ms. Enid Low, Chief Strategy Officer of AsiaWorld Expo Management Limited (first from left); and celebrity guest Mr. Philip Ng (second from left), officiated at the opening of CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026.

The opening ceremony on 4 April was led by Guest of Honour Dr. Bernard Chan Pak-li, JP, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR, and officiated by distinguished guests including Ms. Lovinia Chiu, Founder, Chairwoman of the Board and CEO of Medialink Group Limited; Ms. Enid Low, Chief Strategy Officer of AsiaWorld‑Expo Management Limited; and VIP guests Mr. Andy Lam Siu-hong, JP, Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR, and Mr. David Wong Fuk-loi, JP, Director of Intellectual Property of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR. Celebrity guest Mr. Philip Ng, renowned Hong Kong actor, also attended in support.

Dr. Bernard Chan Pak-li, JP, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR said, “Congratulations to Medialink Group on the successful planning and delivery of this Asia‑wide cross‑industry IP trend‑culture event. Through a series of IP cultural activities, the music festival and the Blackbox Theatre, the event brought together cross‑sector collaboration experiences spanning designer toys, music, art, animation, games, fashion, sports and food, enabling creators, industry professionals and on-site audiences to experience the latest pulse of Asian pop culture. The HKSAR Government will continue to promote the development of local IP and enhance Hong Kong’s IP regime, ensuring it remains up to date, aligned with international trends and responsive to Hong Kong’s economic needs. This includes implementing the Copyright (Amendment) Ordinance 2022, which strengthens copyright protection in the digital environment, and conducting a comprehensive review of the local registered designs system, to encourage the sustained growth of Hong Kong’s cultural and creative industries and drive related value chains across different sectors. We will also actively support cultural IP initiatives, helping applicants pursue IP protection for creative products, develop IP agreements, and manage IP portfolios, to assist creators in unlocking business opportunities. The HKSAR Government will continue to adopt innovative thinking and leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in technology, animation, performing arts, and film and television culture to support IP creation, development and collaborations, attracting more members of the public, visitors and potential partners from around the world to experience Hong Kong’s unique cultural essence. We also encourage industries such as catering, retail and tourism to make full use of IP projects to identify business opportunities and promote broader economic multiplier effects.”

In her welcome remarks, Ms. Lovinia Chiu, Founder, Chairwoman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Medialink Group Limited said, “As the Founder, Chairwoman and CEO of Medialink Group—and as the ‘Mother of CON-CON’—today is deeply meaningful to me. This is Medialink Group’s first large-scale mega-event, and CON-CON® is a Mega-Event IP born in Hong Kong. Hong Kong has always been a vital regional hub. We have a unique geographic advantage, an international outlook, and deep-rooted foundations for cultural and business exchange. In the IP sector, Hong Kong also has clear strengths as a regional intellectual property trading hub. The launch of CON-CON® is precisely about further transforming these advantages into a cultural Mega-Event IP that truly belongs to Hong Kong and sets off from Hong Kong.”

Ms. Chiu added, “One aspect of this edition makes me particularly proud: out of 85 exhibitors, 63 were Hong Kong local brands. This number is especially meaningful because CON-CON® is not merely a venue for showcasing IP content—it is also a platform for Hong Kong’s next-generation brands and creators to be seen, recognised and supported. Through this platform, I hope more people will discover Hong Kong’s creative energy, while also creating opportunities for local brands to set off from Hong Kong and expand across Asian markets. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to every visitor. We hope everyone found their own inspiration and opportunities at CON-CON®, and that they will join us in witnessing a new milestone as Hong Kong’s IP culture moves onto the world stage.”

Ms. Chiu continued, “Building on the strong results achieved by the inaugural CON-CON® and the positive response from all sectors, the Group hereby officially announces that CON-CON® will continue next year, further strengthening its positioning as a Hong Kong‑original Mega‑Event IP, and testifying that Hong Kong can and will be the regional IP trading centre as the envisioned in China’s 14th and 15th five years plan. At the same time, the Group will actively advance CON-CON®‘s regional development strategy, tentatively expanding to Thailand as the first overseas tour destination. This will extend Hong Kong’s mega‑event model to more markets across Asia, further enhancing CON-CON®‘s brand influence and regional reach, and progressively realising CON-CON®‘s long‑term vision, starting from Hong Kong, connecting Asia, and going global.”

CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 delivered a content‑rich programme, bringing together multiple highly anticipated Asian IP highlights and cross‑industry experiences. Centred on IP as its core language, the event brought together immersive IP experiences, a music festival, a Public Stage, public appearances by Asian super idols, cosers and VTubers, Blackbox Theatre Asian creators dialogues, and a marketplace featuring more than 80 major brands, exclusive and limited‑edition merchandise, entertainment, and food and beverage offerings, and more — all integrated into a sustainably operated “Mega‑Event IP.” Collectively, these elements showcased the new value and significant development potential created when IP converges with technology, content, retail, live performance and community culture.

Across the two days, the event sustained strong momentum, with consistently high footfall across the exhibition zones, stage programmes, brand activation areas and the music festival—underscoring clear market appetite for a high-quality IP cultural mega‑event with a distinctive original positioning and an Asia‑wide outlook. CON-CON® not only successfully energised local audiences and spending but also delivered meaningful value for participating brands by driving visibility, enabling commercial partnerships and facilitating cross-industry exchange, further validating CON-CON®‘s business model and long-term value as a sustainably operated “Mega‑Event IP.”

CON-CON® is also open to the public, especially the younger generation, offering opportunities to experience the power of IP through direct participation and immersive engagement. Through an “edutainment” approach, the event seeks to deepen public understanding of the cultural industries and demonstrate that cultural creativity is not merely a hobby or short-term trend, but a viable long-term professional pathway.

“CON-CON®” stands for “Convention for Connection.” More than a showcase of IP, the platform is designed to create meaningful connections among IPs and creators, brands and audiences, performers and fans, and wider industry resources. Through the Blackbox Theatre Asian creator sharing sessions and dialogues, CON-CON® convened leading voices from across the creative and entertainment sectors to explore IP creation thinking, development pathways and cultural value, deepening industry exchange and cross-sector dialogue. By bringing together immersive experiences, content curation, stage performances, creator engagement, marketplace retail and community interaction within a single shared space, CON-CON® is building a cross-industry cultural platform with sustainable growth potential—pioneering a new Mega‑Event IP model that is born in Hong Kong, connects Asia, and is designed to scale internationally.

The successful conclusion of the inaugural CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 marks an important milestone for Medialink Group in advancing an Asia‑wide, cross‑industry IP and trend‑culture landscape. Looking ahead, Medialink Group will continue to leverage its strengths as a cross‑industry IP “super connector” in Asia, further strengthening high‑efficiency linkages among content, brands, creators and markets. The Group remains committed to continuously enhancing CON-CON®‘s cultural influence, commercial value and international visibility, while opening up broader development opportunities for Hong Kong’s, and Asia’s cultural industries.

-END-

About CON-CON® HONG KONG

CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 is solely invested by Medialink Group Limited and fully conceived and organized by its wholly owned subsidiary, CON-CON (HK) Limited. It is the first mega IP flagship festival in Hong Kong created for a global audience. “CON-CON” stands for Convention for Connection and is designed as a cross-sector platform with intellectual property (“IP”) at its core, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange.

Originating in Hong Kong, CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 is the first flagship IP cultural event led and driven by the city, underscoring Hong Kong’s role as an originator, creator and cultural tastemaker in Asia’s cross-industry IP and trend-culture landscape. In a groundbreaking format, CON-CON® brings together immersive experiences, a music festival, the Public Stage, public appearances by Asian super idols, cosers and VTubers, Blackbox Theatre creator dialogues, a marketplace featuring more than 80 major brands, exclusive limited-edition merchandise, entertainment, food and beverage offerings, and more — all connected through IP and integrated into a new “Mega-Event IP.” Visitors are invited to spark new possibilities in their own way and create their own unique chemistry at the event.

Launching from Hong Kong as its first stop, CON-CON® points toward a sustainable and extensible future for IP culture. CON-CON® HONG KONG 2026 is planned as an annual mega-event, beginning in Hong Kong and gradually expanding into other parts of Asia, with the aim of promoting IP, pop culture, ACG culture, and cross-industry collaborations between well-known IPs and brands. The event will take place on April 4–5, 2026 (Saturday and Sunday) at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong International Airport.

CON-CON®: https://www.con-con.asia/
CON-CON® on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conconhk2026
CON-CON® on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conconhk2026
CON-CON® on Xiaohongshu: 搜尋「CON-CON HK」
CON-CON® on WeChat: [CON-CON HK]

About Medialink Group Limited

Medialink Group Limited (Stock Code: 2230.HK) is a leading intellectual property (IP) management company headquartered in Hong Kong, with business in Greater China, Japan and Southeast Asia, actively promoting cultural exchanges through its IP, bring high-quality entertainment to the whole of Asia.

Founded in 1994, its business mainly focuses on content distribution and brand licensing, and is also involved in content production, distribution arrangements and animation product development. The Group invests and cooperates closely with media content licensors to distribute media content related to animation, variety shows, TV dramas, animated and live-action movies. At the same time, it also obtains copyright licensing from various brand licensors in the Asia-Pacific region, including merchandising rights and location-based entertainment rights and promotion rights.

The Group has its own animation brand, its various Ani-One® YouTube channels (including Ani-One® Asia which is Asia-focused, Ani-One® 中文官方頻道 which is run in Chinese, and other South East Asia channels – Ani-One® Thailand, Ani-One® Philippines, Ani-One® Vietnam, Ani-One® Indonesia and Ani-One® India) have more than 10 million subscribers and more than 2.4 billion views. In addition, the Group also owns two channels broadcasting Asia-produced animations, Ani-Mi®, and the e-commerce platform Ani-Mall®, selling animation products and exclusive anime boutique items.

This press release is distributed by Above The Line PR on behalf of CON-CON (HK) Limited. 

Source

Park Hyatt Changsha Named Four-Star Hotel In Forbes Travel Guide’s 2026 Star Awards

admin
-
0
Park Hyatt Changsha Named Four-Star Hotel In Forbes Travel Guide’s 2026 Star Awards

Park Hyatt Changsha Earns Prestigious Accolade;
Ratings Showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com

CHANGSHA, China, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Forbes Travel Guide (“FTG”), the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruise ships, recently announced its 2026 Star Awards. Park Hyatt Changsha earned a new Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star award and is showcased with other honorees on ForbesTravelGuide.com.

Occupying the top floors of Changsha IFS Tower 2, situated within one of the city’s most iconic shopping and commercial complexes, Park Hyatt Changsha is a stylish and sophisticated residence that harmoniously combines breathtaking views, cultural heritage and curated aesthetics with impeccable service. The interiors of Park Hyatt Changsha inspired by the natural colors and materials of Hunan province – famed for its caves, waterfalls, and soaring quartzite sandstone columns as well as the contemporary spirit and dynamism of Changsha as a commercial, manufacturing, and transportation hub. True to the Park Hyatt brand’s renowned connection to the arts, Park Hyatt Changsha is adorned with original paintings and sculptures that are deeply rooted in the context of their location.

Park Hyatt Changsha houses 230 modern rooms, including 24 suites with panoramic views of the city and Xiangjiang River starting from the 54th floor. The natural beauty of Hunan’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park inspired the timber slats and sage green palette, and the spacious rooms include a lounge area and walk-in-wardrobe. Spanning the hotel’s entire 62nd floor, Lilan is the dining and drinking destination, featuring five unique venues, each with its own distinctive décor and ambiance. Lilan’s attentive butlers provide impeccable service tailored to each guest’s preferences. Led by Executive Chef Zhang Wenwen, the culinary team at Park Hyatt Changsha showcases innovative Hunan cuisine that inherits traditional flavors, utilizing the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients. With a prized location in the heart of the city, evocative interiors and excellent culinary offerings, Park Hyatt Changsha is well-positioned to stage spectacular events, and has its sights set on being the city’s preeminent location for successful gatherings, big or small. Furthermore, the fitness center on the 48th floor, inspired by the concept of body-mind balance, offers an urban wellness retreat, complete with unique hydrotherapy facilities, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the vibrant city, reflecting an understated luxury approach to hospitality. 

“With its elegant interiors, exquisitely landscaped gardens, charming floral arrangements, and inspirational contemporary art, says Albert Hong, general manager, Park Hyatt Changsha. “We aim to offer unparalleled comfort and exceptionally attentive service to its worldly guests seeking reprieve from their extensive travels.”

Forbes Travel Guide’s highly anticipated 68th annual Star Awards list covers more than 95 countries.

“Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality,” said Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “This year’s list reflects the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today’s discerning guest.”

To view the new Star Award winners, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

To learn how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star Ratings, click here.

Connect with Forbes Travel Guide:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ForbesTravelGuide

X: www.twitter.com/ForbesInspector

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ForbesTravelGuide

About Forbes Travel Guide: 

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, cruises and their restaurants. Our anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best experiences. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through our independent inspection process. For more information about Forbes Travel Guide, please visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

About Park Hyatt

Park Hyatt’s legacy spans over 45 years of being the luxury choice for discerning global travelers, offering refined and exceptional accommodations in the world’s most desirable cities and resort destinations. Each property is thoughtfully designed to deliver residentially inspired elegance through architecture, housed world-class art, and curated immersive culinary experiences—all complemented by an intuitively personalized level of service. Guests enjoy carefully appointed rooms, acclaimed design, and signature restaurants led by award-winning chefs—creating experiences as personal as they are memorable. For more information, visit parkhyatt.com. Follow @ParkHyatt on Facebook, X and Instagram, and tag your moments with #LuxuryIsPersonal.

Source

IndiGo shares jump 11% as U.S.-Iran ceasefire is likely to ease India’s aviation sector woes

admin
-
0
IndiGo shares jump 11% as U.S.-Iran ceasefire is likely to ease India’s aviation sector woes

An aircraft of InterGlobe Aviation Limited, IndiGo is landing in Mumbai, India, on June 20th, 2023.

Indranil Aditya | Nurphoto | Getty Images

Shares of India’s largest airline, IndiGo, rose more than 11%, before paring some gains, as the U.S.-Iran ceasefire announced Wednesday is likely to ease the strain on India’s aviation sector.

In a temporary relief, U.S. and Iran agreed to a ceasefire earlier in the day, with Tehran saying that safe passage of ships was “possible” for the next two weeks in coordination with the country’s armed forces.

The Middle East conflict affected the Arabian Peninsula and Iran — a key route for westbound flights from India — forcing IndiGo and Air India to operate longer, more expensive routes.

Tata Group-owned Air India, whose chief executive and managing director Campbell Wilson resigned on Tuesday, has raised fuel surcharges on domestic and international flights in response to the steep rises in jet fuel prices. Singapore Airlines, which owns over 25% stake in this Indian carrier, saw shares rise nearly 3%.

In a statement, the airline cited a 100% month-on-month surge in jet fuel costs as the key reason behind the decision.

“The Indian civil aviation sector is currently navigating a serious operational and financial situation, triggered by the conflict in West Asia,” Asangba Chuba Ao, joint secretary in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, said at a press conference on Tuesday.

He added that the services of Indian carriers to the Gulf region had been severely affected, with more than 10,000 flights cancelled in just over a month.

Indian airlines typically operate up to 350 flights daily to countries in the Middle East, but that number has fallen to 80–90 flights a day, he said.

IndiGo commands nearly 65% of India’s aviation market share, while Air India is a distant second at about 27%, according to data from the country’s aviation regulator.

On March 18, Moody’s-backed Indian rating agency ICRA had placed IndiGo’s long-term credit rating “on Watch with Negative Implications” owing to the “expected pressure on the airline’s operating and financial performance arising from the escalation of the geopolitical conflict in West Asia.”

IndiGo shares were last trading more than 8% higher.

Choose CNBC as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment from the most trusted name in business news.

Source

Big-selling Australian Toyota HiLux recalled due to potentially deadly steering risk

admin
-
0
Big-selling Australian Toyota HiLux recalled due to potentially deadly steering risk

Thousands of Australian ute drivers have been urged to take their vehicle back to the manufacturer after the discovery of a potentially deadly fault that could affect its steering.

The federal transport department issued a recall on Wednesday for 13,390 Toyota HiLux utes produced between August 2025 and February 2026.

The issue has affected utes fitted with a bull or nudge bar including a light, and has the potential to cause an electrical problem.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Arrow

The recall comes one day after the Toyota HiLux ranked as the second-most popular vehicle in Australia, according to figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

It also comes two weeks after Toyota Australia issued a warning about the issue, and pledged to contact affected owners.

The government notice warned three HiLux models were affected by the recall, including 4×4 and 4×2 utes.

More than 13,000 Toyota Hiluxes recalled over power steering fault
More than 13,000 Toyota Hiluxes recalled over power steering fault Credit: 7NEWS

The issue occurs when a Toyota Genuine Bull Bar or Nudge Bar with a light has been incorrectly fitted to the vehicle, causing poor electrical contact that could result in a sudden loss of power steering control.

‘’A loss of power steering assist whilst driving could increase the risk of an accident causing injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users,’‘ the notice said.

The manufacturer warned incurring the issue at low speeds could increase the effort required by drivers, and would happen without warning.

HiLux owners are urged to organise an inspection of their vehicle to assess its risk, with repairs provided free of charge.

It affects cars produced between August 2025 and Feburary 2026.
It affects cars produced between August 2025 and Feburary 2026. Credit: 7NEWS

‘’Toyota Australia will contact all owners of involved vehicles to provide details of this safety recall campaign,’‘ the company said in a statement.

‘’Owners are asked to keep their contact details up to date with Toyota so future communications can be received.’‘

Toyota sold more than 4100 HiLux utes in Australia during March, making it the second-most popular vehicle behind the Ford Ranger.

Source

Viet Nam Hospitality and Residential Markets Commence New Growth

admin
-
0
Viet Nam Hospitality and Residential Markets Commence New Growth

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Over the past year, Viet Nam has sustained a strong recovery trajectory, emerging as a standout performer amid the gradual rebound of global tourism. The country welcomed 21.1 million international arrivals, a 20.4% increase that significantly outpaced the broader Asia-Pacific region’s 5% growth. Notably, this was the first time Viet Nam surpassed Thailand as the leading destination for Chinese leisure travellers.

To provide the latest updates on Viet Nam’s real estate and hospitality markets, as well as regional developments, the MTE HCMC 2026 conference brought together more than 60 international speakers and over 1,400 senior industry leaders. Attendees included real estate developers, hotel owners, architects, design and project consultants, hotel operators, general managers, and industry experts from across Southeast Asia. The event reinforced MTE’s position as a premier platform for industry exchange, leaving participants inspired and better equipped to navigate the next phase of growth.

Within the wider Southeast Asian context, the hospitality sector continues to benefit from strong economic fundamentals, supporting travel demand and ongoing hotel development. Viet Nam has emerged as a solid performer, underpinned by RevPAR growth of 15% compared to 2024, rising occupancy rates, and shifting source markets. These factors further strengthen the country’s position as one of the region’s leading destinations.

Looking ahead, the country is targeting 25 million international visitors this year, an expected 18.1% YoY growth, supported by sustained demand across key source markets. This momentum is underpinned by ongoing government efforts to enhance competitiveness, including visa policy liberalisation, expanded international air connectivity, infrastructure improvements, and strengthened destination marketing initiatives.

Impact of current geopolitical tensions

Despite this positive momentum, recent geopolitical tensions are introducing short-term challenges to global travel flows. The Middle East plays a key role as a global transit hub, connecting Europe and Asia-Pacific destinations and supporting a significant share of global intercontinental transit traffic. Disruptions affecting these hubs are therefore expected to impact inter-regional travel patterns.

At the MTE HCMC 2026, the region’s largest annual real estate and hospitality conference held in HCMC, Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, Southeast Asia at Savills Hotels comments, “While Viet Nam remains a fundamentally resilient destination, recent geopolitical tensions are already causing short-term disruption to travel demand, with increasing cancellations, postponements, and re-routed itineraries across key international markets. Although global disruptions are affecting overall travel flows, the country expects to be comparatively less impacted due to its lower reliance on Europe and Middle East inbound markets and its strong positioning within short-haul demand from North Asia, particularly South Korea and China, where travellers may increasingly favour closer, more accessible destinations.”

Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, SE Asia, Savills Hotels at MTE HCMC 2026.
Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, SE Asia, Savills Hotels at MTE HCMC 2026.

Jesper Palmqvist, Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific at STR CoStar, notes, “Viet Nam’s hotel market continues to demonstrate resilience, with positive performance trends observed across multiple segments. The ADR displays YoY growth across luxury, upper-midscale, and economy categories, with the extent of improvement varying by segment. Compared with several regional markets, Viet Nam has maintained relatively strong momentum. Destinations such as Phu Quoc and Da Nang are gradually improving their market positioning as they mature and develop further.”

Phu Quoc fuelled by APEC preparation

From a supply perspective, future hotel development in the next three years will remain concentrated in coastal destinations, with Da Nang and Phu Quoc leading in pipeline volume. Phu Quoc is seeing accelerated development in preparation for APEC. According to Savills Hotels, more than 10,000 keys, equivalent to 70% of existing inventory, are currently under development and are scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 to support the anticipated influx of international demand tied to the event.

Mauro adds, “While APEC presents a significant demand catalyst, its success will depend not only on the delivery of new hotel supply, but also on the readiness of connectivity, local infrastructure, logistics capabilities, and the effective coordination across the broader tourism and service ecosystem.”

Rethinking residential and hospitality for long‑term growth

As Viet Nam enters this next phase, attention is increasingly shifting from cyclical recovery to deeper structural reforms required to support long-term stability and demand creation across residential and hospitality sectors.

Hieu Do, CEO of VinaLiving, explains, “To move the real estate market forward, we must return to fundamentals and address structural issues with practical solutions. Residential affordability can only be solved through long-term financing mechanisms and transparent buyer support policies. In hospitality, the focus must shift toward disciplined supply management and value-chain–driven zoning, where content, culture, and activities become core products, helping destinations generate sustainable demand and overcome seasonality.”

Urban branded residences gain momentum

Branded residences are receiving higher global interest, underpinned by sustained demand growth and expanded brand participation across key markets. Globally, the branded residence segment continues to build a strong presence, recording a compound annual growth of 10.9%, doubling the pace of hotel and real estate markets. By the end of 2025, 910 global projects were operational, with the top 10 hotel operators collectively managing portfolios of more than 400 branded collaborations.

In Viet Nam, the market has recently seen an increase in branded developments across the two key urban centres. These projects are also becoming more diversified in terms of positioning, expanding beyond the traditional luxury segment.

Uyen Nguyen, Associate Director, Savills Hotels, adds, “Viet Nam’s branded residence market is reaching an important turning point, with a strong shift from resort developments to urban projects in HCMC and Ha Noi. The growth of this model is driven by several factors, especially the expansion of high-net-worth individuals and the strong trust buyers place in developments backed by international brands. As a result, branded residences are emerging as a key long‑term strategy for developers anticipating changing buyer profiles.”

The conference program also featured a series of insightful keynote presentations and panel discussions from leading industry players, including Accor Hotels Group and Boutique Corporation, QUO, 10design, Mizumi.ai, GroupGSA, Club Med, Amadeus, RH1, and The PuLi, covering key themes across hospitality, real estate, design trends and technology.

The event was co-hosted by An Cuong and Savills Hotels, in partnership with Vietceramics, SALTO, and in collaboration with Hafele, Techcombank, Technal, Nha x Philippe Starck, BOSCH, Gaggenau, Cat Tuong, Hettich, HSBC, Atlas Concorde, Gessi, D-edge, TEKA, Matrix, LQ International, Precor, Syndacast, Unios, Zennio, alongside F&B partners and media partners.

For more information about the event, please contact: Ms. Lisa via Host@wehubyou.com.

Vision Asia Pacific is a registered company which owns WeHub and organizes many event series, including the MTE conference and the HoSkar Night networking event.

PR Newswire is the Official Media Partner of MTE HCMC 2026.

Source

1...394041...489Page 40 of 489

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Blogchicks is your lifestyle news, entertainment, travel, music, health & fashion website. We provide you with the latest breaking news and videos, something for everyone.

Contact us: info@blogchicks.com.au

FOLLOW US

© Blog Chicks 2024