2007'12.07.Fri
Thomson Scientific Publishes its Third Quarter Issue of The Ones to Watch Reviewing the Most Promising Drugs in the Pharmaceutical Pipeline
November 30, 2007
Novartis Leads the Drug List With its Alzheimer's Disease
Treatment Exelon TDS
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Thomson
Scientific, part of The Thomson Corporation (NYSE: TOC;
TSX: TOC) and leading provider of information solutions to
the worldwide research and business communities, has issued
its quarterly The Ones-to-Watch report. It provides expert
insight into the five most promising drugs entering each
new phase of clinical development between July and
September 2007.
"Bookending this quarter's list are three
potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease, two of which
are just entering clinical trials and one that has already
received FDA approval," said Peter Robins, editorial
and content manager, Thomson Scientific. "This
quarter's The Ones to Watch report showcases the ongoing
drive to find therapies for diseases that impact on ageing
and sedentary populations."
Which are the Ones-to-Watch this Quarter?
Topping this quarter's approval list is Exelon TDS, a
new transdermal patch formulation of rivastigmine, which
looks like a winner for Novartis. In the seven years since
its launch, the oral formulation of rivastigmine has seen
year-on-year US dollar growth as a treatment of Alzheimer's
disease- and Parkinson's disease-associated dementia. The
FDA approved Exelon TDS for mild to moderate dementia in
July 2007. The EU approval followed two months later. The
U.S. launch is expected imminently.
Second on the list is AZOR, which was developed by
Daiichi Sankyo for the treatment of hypertension and
includes a combination of two component drugs. In previous
Phase III trials, all doses of the combination produced
greater mean reductions in blood pressure than either drug
alone. This, along with its favorable side-effect profile,
should make AZOR an attractive treatment option for patients
whose blood pressure does not respond to either component
drug in isolation. U.S. approval was granted in September
2007.
While the reason for menopause remains unknown, KV
Pharmaceutical believes EvaMist, which takes the third spot
on the list, may offer significant advantages to women
experiencing menopause. This product is a small,
easy-to-use hand-held applicator that delivers a pre-set
metered dose via the skin, releasing estradoil into the
bloodstream over 24 hours. EvaMist gained FDA approval in
July 2007.
The first of two potential treatments for cancer on the
list of notable drugs gaining approval this quarter is
Yondelis, developed by PharmaMar for patients who have not
responded to previous regimens in their treatment of soft
tissue sarcoma. Yondelis is the first approved product
from PharmaMar, a Spanish biotech specializing in cancer
drugs derived from marine organisms and has Orphan Drug
status in both the EU and U.S., securing extended
protection against generic competition.
The second approval win for Novartis this quarter,
Tasigna, is an orally available inhibitor of Bcr-Abl,
c-Kit, PDGF-R and related receptor tyrosine kinases for the
potential treatment of various types of leukemia. Though the
drug has been approved only in Switzerland for chronic
myeloid leukemia, it is awaiting approval in the U.S. and
Japan and has been recommended for approval across the EU.
Following are the top five drugs in each category of
phase changes:
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase III
Trials
-- bevasiranib sodium, (Wet AMD), Opko
-- recombinant active glucocerebrosidase, (Gaucher's
disease), Protalix
-- odanacatib, (osteoporosis), Merck & Co
-- laquinimod, (multiple sclerosis), Active
Biotech/Teva
-- elesclomol, (solid tumors), Synta
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase II Trials
-- CPP-109, (addiction to cocaine and methamphetamine),
Catalyst
Pharmaceuticals
-- intranasal insulin formulation, (diabetes), Nastech
-- LCP-AtorFen, (cholesterol), Life Cycle
-- EC-145, (ovarian and lung cancer), Endocyte
-- TG-100801, (AMD, diabetic macular edemia, diabetic
retinopathy),
TargeGen
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase I Trials
-- affitope AD-01, (Alzheimer's disease), AFFiRiS
-- MEM-63908, (Alzheimer's disease, CNS disorders),
Memory/Roche
-- TC-5619, (schizophrenia, depression), Targacept
-- RDEA-806, (HIV infection), Ardea Biosciences
-- APD-791, (arterial thrombosis), Arena
Pharmaceuticals
About This Quarterly Report:
Data for this report was compiled and analyzed using
Thomson Pharma(R), a comprehensive global pharmaceutical
information solution that covers the entire drug discovery
and development pipeline. Its competitive intelligence and
strategic data can justify and speed decision-making,
facilitate more focused collaboration, and encourage
innovation.
For a copy of the full report with analysis, visit:
http://scientific.thomson.com/thomsonpharma/media/pdfs/tpqr/tp_qr_jul-sep2007.pdf
About The Thomson Corporation
The Thomson Corporation ( http://www.thomson.com ) is a
global leader in providing essential electronic workflow
solutions to business and professional customers. With
operational headquarters in Stamford, CT, Thomson provides
value-added information, software tools and applications to
professionals in the fields of law, tax, accounting,
financial services, scientific research, and healthcare.
The corporation's common shares are listed on the New York
and Toronto stock exchanges (NYSE: TOC; TSX: TOC).
Thomson Scientific is a business of The Thomson
Corporation. Its information solutions assist
professionals at every stage of research and development --
from discovery to analysis to product development and
distribution. Thomson Scientific information solutions can
be found at scientific.thomson.com.
For more information, please contact:
Eoin Bedford
Thomson Scientific
+44-207-433-4691
eoin.bedford@thomson.com
PR
2007'12.07.Fri
Thomson Scientific Publishes its Third Quarter Issue of the Ones to Watch Reviewing the Most Promising Drugs in the Pharmaceutical Pipeline
November 30, 2007
Novartis Leads the Drug List With its Alzheimer's Disease
Treatment Exelon TDS
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Thomson
Scientific, part of The Thomson Corporation (NYSE: TOC;
TSX: TOC) and leading provider of information solutions to
the worldwide research and business communities, has issued
its quarterly The Ones-to-Watch report. It provides expert
insight into the five most promising drugs entering each
new phase of clinical development between July and
September 2007.
"Bookending this quarter's list are three
potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease, two of which
are just entering clinical trials and one that has already
received FDA approval," said Peter Robins, editorial
and content manager, Thomson Scientific. "This
quarter's The Ones to Watch report showcases the ongoing
drive to find therapies for diseases that impact on ageing
and sedentary populations."
Which are the Ones-to-Watch this Quarter?
Topping this quarter's approval list is Exelon TDS, a
new transdermal patch formulation of rivastigmine, which
looks like a winner for Novartis. In the seven years since
its launch, the oral formulation of rivastigmine has seen
year-on-year US dollar growth as a treatment of Alzheimer's
disease - and Parkinson's disease- associated dementia. The
FDA approved Exelon TDS for mild to moderate dementia in
July 2007. The EU approval followed two months later. The
U.S. launch is expected imminently.
Second on the list is AZOR, which was developed by
Daiichi Sankyo for the treatment of hypertension and
includes a combination of two component drugs. In previous
Phase III trials, all doses of the combination produced
greater mean reductions in blood pressure than either drug
alone. This, along with its favorable side-effect profile,
should make AZOR an attractive treatment option for patients
whose blood pressure does not respond to either component
drug in isolation. U.S. approval was granted in September
2007.
While the reason for menopause remains unknown, KV
Pharmaceutical believes EvaMist, which takes the third spot
on the list, may offer significant advantages to women
experiencing menopause. This product is a small,
easy-to-use hand-held applicator that delivers a pre-set
metered dose via the skin, releasing estradoil into the
bloodstream over 24 hours. EvaMist gained FDA approval in
July 2007.
The first of two potential treatments for cancer on the
list of notable drugs gaining approval this quarter is
Yondelis, developed by PharmaMar for patients who have not
responded to previous regimens in their treatment of soft
tissue sarcoma. Yondelis is the first approved product
from PharmaMar, a Spanish biotech specializing in cancer
drugs derived from marine organisms and has Orphan Drug
status in both the EU and U.S., securing extended
protection against generic competition.
The second approval win for Novartis this quarter,
Tasigna, is an orally available inhibitor of Bcr-Abl,
c-Kit, PDGF-R and related receptor tyrosine kinases for the
potential treatment of various types of leukemia. Though the
drug has been approved only in Switzerland for chronic
myeloid leukemia, it is awaiting approval in the U.S. and
Japan and has been recommended for approval across the EU.
Following are the top five drugs in each category of
phase changes:
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase III
Trials
* bevasiranib sodium, (Wet AMD), Opko
* recombinant active glucocerebrosidase, (Gaucher's
disease), Protalix
* odanacatib, (osteoporosis), Merck & Co
* laquinimod, (multiple sclerosis), Active
Biotech/Teva
* elesclomol, (solid tumors), Synta
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase II Trials
* CPP-109, (addiction to cocaine and methamphetamine),
Catalyst
Pharmaceuticals
* intranasal insulin formulation, (diabetes), Nastech
* LCP-AtorFen, (cholesterol), Life Cycle
* EC-145, (ovarian and lung cancer), Endocyte
* TG-100801, (AMD, diabetic macular edemia, diabetic
retinopathy),
TargeGen
The Five Most Promising Drugs Entering Phase I Trials
* affitope AD-01, (Alzheimer's disease), AFFiRiS
* MEM-63908, (Alzheimer's disease, CNS disorders),
Memory/Roche
* TC-5619, (schizophrenia, depression), Targacept
* RDEA-806, (HIV infection), Ardea Biosciences
* APD-791, (arterial thrombosis), Arena
Pharmaceuticals
About This Quarterly Report:
Data for this report was compiled and analyzed using
Thomson Pharma(R), a comprehensive global pharmaceutical
information solution that covers the entire drug discovery
and development pipeline. Its competitive intelligence and
strategic data can justify and speed decision-making,
facilitate more focused collaboration, and encourage
innovation.
For a copy of the full report with analysis, visit:
http://scientific.thomson.com/thomsonpharma/media/pdfs/tpqr/tp_qr_jul-sep2007.pdf
Due to length of URL, please cut and paste into browser.
About The Thomson Corporation
The Thomson Corporation (www.thomson.com) is a global
leader in providing essential electronic workflow solutions
to business and professional customers. With operational
headquarters in Stamford, CT, Thomson provides value-added
information, software tools and applications to
professionals in the fields of law, tax, accounting,
financial services, scientific research, and healthcare.
The corporation's common shares are listed on the New York
and Toronto stock exchanges (NYSE: TOC; TSX: TOC).
Thomson Scientific is a business of The Thomson
Corporation. Its information solutions assist
professionals at every stage of research and development -
from discovery to analysis to product development and
distribution. Thomson Scientific information solutions can
be found at scientific.thomson.com.
For more information, please contact:
Eoin Bedford
Thomson Scientific
Tel: +44-207-433-4691
Email: eoin.bedford@thomson.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Platts Global Energy Awards Bestows `Company of the Year' and `Industry Leadership' Awards on NRG Energy of Houston
November 30, 2007
Duke Energy's Jim Rogers Gets Coveted `CEO of the Year'
NEW YORK, Nov. 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Houston-based NRG Energy, the international power
generator, snared two top awards -- "Energy Company of
the Year" and the "Industry Leadership Award"
-- tonight at the 9th annual Platts Global Energy Awards.
Platts' prestigious "CEO of the Year" award
went to Duke Energy's Jim Rogers, known for his advocacy of
energy efficiency.
"Congratulations to NRG Energy and to Jim
Rogers," said Platts President Victoria Chu Pao.
"NRG is a true global pioneer, and the judges were
impressed by the company's vision, sense of corporate
responsibility and leadership. NRG Energy has transformed
itself into a powerhouse -- and was recognized as one of
the fastest growing companies in the Platts Top 250 awards
announced earlier this year."
"Duke Energy's Jim Rogers has been a leader, an
innovator and an implementer. The judges honored Rogers as
a leading voice and visionary for an entire industry,"
she said.
Platts, a leading global energy information service, is
a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP).
Its annual awards showcase extraordinary
accomplishments by energy businesses and individuals
worldwide. Finalists and winners are determined by an
independent international panel of judges.
This year's "Energy Company of the Year"
winner, NRG Energy, less than two decades old, has one of
the industry's most diverse portfolios, with a breadth of
interests that span geographies, fuel sources and dispatch
mechanisms. In addition to its current $16 billion
environmental and efficiency spending plans, the energy
provider is the first independent power producer in the
United States in decades to apply to build a nuclear power
station.
As a leader in demonstrating environmental
responsibility, NRG has been spearheading innovative
research and development programs, including algae-based
CO2 recycling.
Duke Energy CEO James Rogers, winner of this year's
"CEO of the Year" award, has been a noted
inspirational leader throughout his career. In addition to
his role heading the United States' third largest coal
burner, Rogers has served as chairman of the Edison
Electric Institute, the national association for
investor-owned electric companies, and has led the U.S.
Climate Action Partnership, a coalition of businesses and
other groups calling for a nationwide limit on CO2
emission. Rogers' outspoken advocacy of energy efficiency
and conservation prompted his appointment as co-chair of
two pivotal organizations -- the Alliance to Save Energy
and the National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency. He has
also participated in President Clinton's Global Initiative
meetings.
More than 500 top executives from more than a dozen
countries gathered in New York City for the gala event
tonight at Cipriani Wall Street. The evening dinner and
ceremony was preceded by the Platts Lecture, in which
industry leaders, market analysts, and academic scholars
discussed energy sustainability issues against the backdrop
of the global debate about climate change. Jim Rogers,
together with Gene Sperling, former White House National
Economic Advisor and former Director of the National
Economic Council, were the key speakers at the event.
The 2007 Platts Global Energy Awards were co-sponsored
for the fifth year by Capgemini and for the second year by
Bracewell & Giuliani and also included sponsors:
Standard & Poor's, Panasonic Computer Solutions Company
and Spectra Energy Corporation.
The Global Energy Awards recognize excellence and
innovation by companies and executives in more than a dozen
sectors within the global energy industry. Platts received
more than 200 nominations this year from energy companies
around the world.
The winners in each awards category are:
Commercial Technology of the Year:
Shell Global Solutions B.V./Criterion Catalysts &
Technologies
Community Development Program of the Year:
Attock Refinery Limited
Downstream Business of the Year:
Valero Energy Corporation
Energy Company of the Year:
NRG Energy
Energy Efficiency Initiative of the Year:
Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited-Peaksaver
Program
Energy Transporter of the Year:
Sovcomflot
Energy Engineering Project of the Year:
Nexen Inc.
ENR Energy Construction Project of the Year:
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
Green Energy Innovator of the Year:
Applied Materials, Inc.
Hydrocarbon Producer of the Year:
Chesapeake Energy Corporation
Industry Leadership Award:
NRG Energy
Lifetime Achievement Award:
Lord Ernest Ronald Oxburgh
Marketing Campaign of the Year:
E Wie Einfach/E.ON
Power Company of the Year:
MidAmerican Energy Holdings Company
Rising Star Award:
AED Oil Limited
Risk Management Innovator of the Year:
OpenLink Financial
CEO of the Year:
Duke Energy CEO James Rogers
Next year's Platts Global Energy Awards Gala and events
will be held December 3, 2008 in New York City.
About Platts: Platts, a division of The McGraw-Hill
Companies (NYSE: MHP), is a leading global provider of
energy and commodities information. With nearly a century
of business experience, Platts serves customers across more
than 150 countries. From 14 offices worldwide, Platts serves
the oil, natural gas, electricity, nuclear power, coal,
petrochemical, emissions, and metals markets. Platts' real
time news, pricing, analytical services, and conferences
help markets operate with transparency and efficiency.
Traders, risk managers, analysts, and industry leaders
depend upon Platts to help them make better trading and
investment decisions. Additional information is available
at http://www.platts.com.
About The McGraw-Hill Companies: Founded in 1888, The
McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a leading global
information services provider meeting worldwide needs in
the financial services, education and business information
markets through leading brands such as Standard &
Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek and J.D. Power
and Associates. The corporation has more than 280 offices
in 40 countries. Sales in 2006 were $6.3 billion.
Additional information is available at
http://www.mcgraw-hill.com .
For more information, please contact:
Shiona Ramage
Platts - Europe
Tel: +44-20-7176-6153
Email: shiona_ramage@platts.com
Casey Yew
Platts - Asia
Tel: +65-653-06552
Email: casey_yew@platts.com
Kathleen Tanzy
Platts
Tel: +1-212-904-2860
Email: kathleen_tanzy@platts.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Corporate, Economic Visionaries Address Platts Lecture
November 30, 2007
Duke Energy's Jim Rogers Calls for Substantial Reduction in
Carbon Footprint at Platts Lecture;
Former White House National Economic Advisor Gene Sperling
Challenges Audience to View Climate Change as an 'Insurance
Investment'
NEW YORK, Nov. 30 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy's
Jim Rogers called for a 60 to 80 percent reduction in
today's carbon footprint by mid-century at the acclaimed
Platts Lecture today, in which industry leaders, market
analysts, and academic scholars discussed critical
sustainability issues.
At the same lecture, former White House National
Economic Advisor Gene Sperling talked about the marked
change in public opinion on climate change over the last
decade and its inexorable impact on future economic policy.
Sperling also challenged the audience to look at climate
change as an insurance investment - as a preventative
measure against future catastrophe -- as well as from an
"investment in green" perspective.
Duke Energy's Rogers, known for his advocacy of energy
efficiency as a "fifth fuel" (nuclear, coal, gas,
and renewables as first through fourth), asked audience
members in the lecture to view a low-carbon economy as a
national priority, "like a Manhattan Project or an
Apollo mission of the new millennium."
In addition to his presidency of Duke Energy, Rogers
has served as chairman of the Edison Electric Institute,
the national association for investor-owned electric
companies. Rogers' outspoken advocacy of energy efficiency
and conversation prompted his appointment as co-chair of two
pivotal organizations -- the Alliance to Save Energy and the
National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency.
Sperling served in the Clinton administration as the
president's National Economic Advisor and Director of the
National Economic Council. As director of the National
Economic Council, Sperling was responsible for coordinating
domestic and international economic cabinet members.
The lecture, "Climate, Energy and Climate for
Energy," sponsored by R.W. Beck, with co-sponsor
Paccar, preceded the Platts Global Energy Awards gala here,
which honors the energy industry's "best of the
best" in 17 performance categories. The awards
showcase extraordinary accomplishments by businesses and
individuals worldwide. Platts, a leading global energy
information service, is a division of McGraw-Hill.
About Platts:
Platts, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE:
MHP), is a leading global provider of energy and
commodities information. With nearly a century of business
experience, Platts serves customers across more than 150
countries. From 14 offices worldwide, Platts serves the
oil, natural gas, electricity, nuclear power, coal,
petrochemical, emissions, and metals markets. Platts' real
time news, pricing, analytical services, and conferences
help markets operate with transparency and efficiency.
Traders, risk managers, analysts, and industry leaders
depend upon Platts to help them make better trading and
investment decisions. Additional information is available
at http://www.platts.com.
About The McGraw-Hill Companies:
Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP)
is a leading global information services provider meeting
worldwide needs in the financial services, education and
business information markets through leading brands such as
Standard & Poor's, McGraw-Hill Education, BusinessWeek
and J.D. Power and Associates. The corporation has more
than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2006 were $6.3
billion. Additional information is available at
http://www.mcgraw-hill.com.
For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Tanzy
Platts
Tel: +1-212-904-2860
Email: kathleen_tanzy@platts.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Webzen Inc. Resolution on Direct Share Repurchase
November 29, 2007
SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 29
/Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Webzen Inc. (Nasdaq: WZEN)
announced that the company decided to repurchased treasury
stock 250,000 shares in order to stabilize the stock price.
Estimated repurchase amount will be 2.2 billion won. The
repurchase amount is computed based on the closing price of
the previous day (November 28th, 2007). The repurchase
period is Dec.03 2007 - Feb.29 2008. Webzen¡¦s total
treasury stock balance after this repurchase is
797,705(6.15%)
-- Purpose: Stabilize treasury stock price
-- Number of Shares to be repurchased: 250,000 (2%)
-- Estimated Repurchase Amount: 2.2 billion won
-- Repurchase Period: 2007.12.03 - 2008.02.29
Since present stock price is much lower than its
company value and Webzen¡¦s growth potential does not
reflect to the stock price, management decided to
repurchase treasury stock.
As of end of Q3, our cash and cash equivalent asset was
74 billion won. The current ratio is over 1000% that we have
maintained stable financial structure. We are anticipating
the black ink the Q4 ordinary profit due to the disposal of
tangible assets and disposable stock.
Media contact:
Mr. Donghoon Lee
Manager
Investor Relations
Webzen Inc.
Tel: +82-2-3498-6818
Fax: +82-2-2057-2568
Email: mpower@webzen.com
2007'12.07.Fri
InSightec Ltd. Announces $30 Million Investment Round
November 29, 2007
TIRAT CARMET, Israel, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
InSightec Ltd. today reported that it has closed an
internal round of financing totaling $30 million from its
existing investors: Elbit Imaging Ltd. (Nasdaq: EMITF), GE
Capital Equity Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of General
Electric Company (NYSE: GE), MediTech Advisors LLC
("MTA"), a private firm specializing in the
healthcare marketplace, and directors and managers of the
company.
The investment will take the form of Preferred Shares,
which are convertible to InSightec's ordinary shares
subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions stipulated
in the agreement.
InSightec reported that the funds would be used to
expand its research and development efforts, for marketing
and sales activities, and for general corporate purposes.
InSightec's President and CEO Dr. Kobi Vortman said,
"The ExAblate(R) 2000 treatments of uterine fibroids
continue to grow globally with excellent clinical results
driving market adoption and with more than 50 leading sites
globally. In parallel InSightec is expanding the research
into oncology areas: bone metastases, prostate cancer,
breast cancer, liver tumors and brain tumors. InSightec has
received the European CE approval for pain palliation of
bone metastases based on clinical results demonstrating
that this technology has the potential to become an
important treatment alternative for this patient population
and also received from the FDA IDE approval for starting a
phase III clinical trial in the US for the treatment of
bone metastases. The investment will allow acceleration of
the technical and clinical research for oncology
applications providing improved care for patients around
the world.
The continued support by our current investors is a
vote of confidence in the employees, the technology and the
vision, and we are proud in it."
About InSightec
InSightec Ltd. is a privately held company owned by
Elbit Imaging, General Electric, MediTech Advisors, LLC and
employees. It was founded in 1999 to develop the
breakthrough MR guided Focused Ultrasound technology and
transform it into the next generation operating room.
Headquartered near Haifa, Israel, the company has over 150
employees and has invested more than $100 million in
research, development, and clinical investigations. Its
U.S. headquarters are located in Dallas, Texas. For more
information, please go to: http://www.insightec.com/
About ExAblate
The ExAblate(R) is the first system to use the
breakthrough MRgFUS technology that combines MRI -- to
visualize tissues in the body, plan the treatment and
monitor treatment outcome in real time -- and high
intensity focused ultrasound to thermally ablate tumors
inside the body non-invasively. MR thermometry, provided
uniquely by the system, allows the physician to control and
adjust the treatment in real time to ensure that the
targeted tumor is fully treated and surrounding tissue is
spared. ExAblate received FDA approval for the treatment of
symptomatic uterine fibroids in October 2004. ExAblate has
been recognized for its innovation and potential to serve
mankind and has been awarded the 2004 European Union's
Information Society Technologies grand prize, The Wall
Street Journal's 2004 Technology Innovation Awards,
Advanced Imaging's 2005 Solutions of the Year, the Red
Herring 100 Europe 2007 Award.
Contact Information:
InSightec Ltd.
http://www.insightec.com/
Tel: +972-4-813-1313
Email: info@insightec.com
For media inquiries:
Fern Lazar
Lazar Partners, Ltd.
Tel: +1-212-867-1762
Email: flazar@lazarpartners.com
2007'12.07.Fri
HKC (HOLDINGS) Acquires Second Piece of Prime Land in Shenyang To Build Offices and Commercial Buildings
November 29, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- HKC
(Holdings) Limited ("HKC (HOLDINGS)" or the
"Group") (HKEx: 190) announced that the Group has
successfully bid on a parcel of land at Nanjing North
Street, Heping District, Shenyang City for RMB170 million
(approximately HK$178.5 million) at a public auction
through an auctioneer appointed by the People's High Court
of Liaoning Province, the PRC.
The total site area of the land is 7,105 sq. m. with
approved design gross floor area of about 92,000 square
meters above ground. The average land price of the gross
floor area above ground is about RMB1,848 per sq. m. The
Group also intends to build a total of 10,000 sq. m. floor
area below ground. The land is located at the city center
of Shenyang above a subway station under construction which
currently is planned to commence operation in 2009. The
Land is also beside Taiyuan Street, the pedestrian shopping
street of Shenyang.
Shenyang is the economic, cultural, communication,
trade and commercial hub in Northeastern China as well as a
major industrial and cultural city with historical
importance. At the centre of both the Northeast Asian
economic ring and the Bohai economic ring, the city has
been growing fast. As the Shenyang economy continues to
expand, HKC (HOLDINGS) expects the property market in the
city to keep prospering in the next few years and beyond.
Mr. Eric Oei, Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer of HKC (HOLDINGS), commented, "I am very
pleased with this latest successful bid we managed so soon
after the acquisition of another piece of quality land in
the same region in September. This latest acquisition at a
very reasonable price is testament to the foresight and
shrewd judgment of the Group's land acquisition team.
Shenyang is one of the prime regions the Group has
identified for its property development business. With an
extensive business network and leveraging the support of
Cerberus, our second largest shareholder and expert in
property investment, we will continue to look for and
acquire high-potential site to enrich our land bank in
China, especially prime land in Shanghai, Tianjin,
Shenyang, Hangzhou, and Qingdao."
About HKC (Holdings) Limited (stock code: 190)
HKC (Holdings) Limited is principally engaged in
property development and investment activities with a
primary focus in the PRC. It is also one of the leading
providers of alternative energy in the PRC. In October
2007, Cerberus Asia Capital Management, LLC has become the
Group's second largest shareholder.
For more information, please visit the Group's website:
http://www.hkcholdings.com .
For media enquiries:
Vicky Lee
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Tel: +852-2864-4834
Email: vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk
Doris Chan
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Tel: +852-2114-4950
Email: doris.chan@sprg.com.hk
Germain Lam
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Tel: +852-2864-4861
Email: germain.lam@sprg.com.hk
2007'12.07.Fri
China 3C Raises Full Year Profit Guidance for 2007
November 29, 2007
HANGZHOU, China, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/
-- China 3C Group (OTC Bulletin Board: CHCG), a retailer
and distributor of consumer and business products in China,
announced today that it raised full year fully diluted
earnings per share to between $.43 and $.47 per share for
full year 2007. Previous guidance was $.40 to $.44.
China 3C CEO Zhenggang Wang said, "Sales for the
fourth quarter 2007 are trending well, so we feel very
comfortable with the higher guidance for this year."
About China 3C Group
China 3C is a leading wholesale distributor and
retailer of 3C merchandise: computers, communication
products and consumer electronics. The company specializes
in wholesale distribution and retail sales of 3C products
in Eastern China, focusing on products that make life more
comfortable, convenient and connected. The company's goal
is to become the number one retailer of 3C products in
China. For more information, visit
http://www.china3cgroup.com .
A profile for investors can be accessed at
http://www.hawkassociates.com/chcgprofile.aspx . For
investor relations information regarding China 3C, contact
Frank Hawkins or Ken AuYeung, Hawk Associates, at
305-451-1888, e-mail: info@hawkassociates.com . An online
investor kit including press releases, current price
quotes, stock charts and other valuable information for
investors may be found at http://www.hawkassociates.com and
http://www.americanmicrocaps.com . To receive free e-mail
notification of future releases for China 3C, sign up at
http://www.hawkassociates.com/email.aspx .
Forward-looking Statements:
Certain of the statements set forth in this press
release constitute "Forward looking statements"
within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act of 1995. We have included and from time to time
may make in our public filings, press releases or other
public statements, certain forward-looking statements,
including, without limitation, those under
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" in Part II, Item
7. In some cases these statements are identifiable through
the use of words such as "anticipate,"
"believe," "estimate,"
"expect," "intend," "plan,"
"project," "target," "can,"
"could," "may," "should,"
"will," "would" or words or expressions
of similar meaning. You are cautioned not to place undue
reliance on these forward- looking statements. In addition,
our management may make forward-looking statements to
analysts, investors, representatives of the media and
others. These forward-looking statements are not historical
facts and represent only our beliefs regarding future
events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently
uncertain and beyond our control. There can be no assurance
that such forward-looking statements will prove to be
accurate and China 3C Group undertakes no obligation to
update any forward-looking statements or to announce
revisions to any of the forward-looking statements.
For more information, please contact:
Investor Relations Contact:
Frank Hawkins and Julie Marshall
Hawk Associates, Inc.
Tel: +1-305-451-1888
Email: info@hawkassociates.com
Website: http://www.hawkassociates.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Largest White Top Linerboard Producer in China by Production Output in 2006, Sunshine Paper Commenced HKPO Today
November 29, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- China
Sunshine Paper Holdings Company Limited ("Sunshine
Paper" or the "Company" and together with
its subsidiaries, the "Group", HKEx: 2002), a
leading white top linerboard manufacturer by production
output in 2006 in the PRC announces details of its listing
on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong
Limited ("HKEx").
The Global Offering of Sunshine Paper ("Global
Offering") comprises 100,000,000 Shares ("Offer
Shares"). Subject to clawback, 90,000,000 Shares, or
90% of the Offer Shares will initially be offered to
professional, institutional and/or other investors, through
the international placing ("International
Placing"); and the remaining 10,000,000 Shares,
representing 10% of the Offer Shares, will initially be
offered in Hong Kong Public Offer ("HK Public
Offer"). The Offer Price of Sunshine Paper ranges
between HK$5.75 and HK$7.45 per Share.
Based on the mid-point of Offer Price of HK$6.60, it is
estimated that the Group will receive net proceeds from the
Global Offering of approximately HK$592.3 million (approx.
RMB577.1 million), after deducting the underwriting
commission and estimated expenses payable by the Company
but before exercise of the over-allotment option. The net
proceeds from the Global Offering will be used for the
following purposes:
-- Approx. HK$519.4 million (approx. RMB506.1 million)
will be used for
the purchase, installation and implementation of
various production
equipment and supporting facilities to produce white
top linerboard
and light-coated linerboard products ;
-- Approx. HK$47.2 million (approx. RMB46.0 million)
will be used for
the expansion of the Group's network of recovered
paper collection
points;
-- Approx. HK$20.6 million (approx. RMB20.0 million)
will be used for
the Group's research and development efforts;
-- Approx. HK$5.1 million (approx. RMB5.0 million) will
be used for the
installation of the Group's ERP system at its
Weifang production
facilitates to enhance operating efficiencies.
The HK Public Offering commenced on Thursday, 29
November 2007 and close at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, 4
December 2007. Trading of the Company's shares on HKEx is
expected to commence on Wednesday, 12 December 2007.
BNP Paribas Capital (Asia Pacific) Limited is the Sole
Sponsor, Global Coordinator and Lead Manager of the Global
Offering. BNP Paribas Capital (Asia Pacific) Limited and
BOCI Asia Limited are the Joint Bookrunners of the Global
Offering.
Sunshine Paper is a leading white top linerboard
manufacturer in China by production output in 2006. It is
principally engaged in the production and sale of white top
linerboard, light-coated linerboard and core board.
According to China Paper Association, Changle Century
Sunshine Paper Industry Co., Ltd., a key operating
subsidiary of the Group, was the largest producer of white
top linerboard by production output and one of the top
three largest producers of core board by production output
in China for the year ended 31 December 2006. As at 30
June 2007, Changle Sunshine was the largest light-coated
linerboard producer in China in terms of production
capacity.
2007'12.07.Fri
Arie Haan¡¦s Agent Calls on Irish Football Fans for Help
November 29, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Arie Haan¡¦s
agent today urged Irish football fans to unite behind his
candidate for the Irish manager¡¦s job.
"It¡¦s time to break with the past and move on
from the age of the gaffer to the ¡¥Haan Dynasty¡¦,"
said the Hong Kong based sports agent, Mark Mullan.
Mr Mullan, who submitted the Holland legend¡¦s
application to the FAI on Wednesday, is urging fans to
unite behind the Dutchman in order to avoid ¡¥another
managerial fiasco:
"It¡¦s not too late if we act now. Terry Venables
may be popular with some people, but there is also a lot of
discontent out there. A lot of people want a clean break
with the style of the past. And Arie Haan is the perfect
man for the job -- a combination of experience, success and
tactical mastery."
Haan, who was in Beijing Wednesday to offer advice to
the Chinese Football Association, said the Irish job would
be perfect for him.
"I have always admired the fighting spirit of the
Irish, but the current squad also has some gifted technical
players. I think I could really turn things around,"
said Haan in a statement issued via his media
representative.
"Ireland has its own particular style. But I am
from Holland, where we have different ideas on how to play.
If we can match the two styles, I think it would be
perfect.
"As a player, I played against Liam Brady and
George Best and had the highest respect for them. I know
that Best played for Northern Ireland, but the attitude was
the same. Both were gentlemen. My agent and spokesperson
are Irish, so I know I can definitely work with the Irish.
And I love the fans."
In a number of interviews on Wednesday, Haan reiterated
his interest in a new challenge, after quitting as Cameroon
boss in February:
"I am itching to get involved in management again
and work in Europe," said the Stuttgart-based
Dutchman, who speaks fluent English.
"There are a lot of top candidates for this job.
But all I can say is that I bring a lot of experience and
success, and maybe it¡¦s also time for Ireland to have a
continental coach.
"If you keep the same mentality not much will
change. Also, to win, the players need a coach and staff
around them who know what it is to win. And all my life I
have won a lot more than I lost," said the five-time
European Cup winner and veteran of two World Cup finals.
For more details, please contact,
Enda Brogan: Media Rep
Tel: +86-13-51107-3112
Email: enda@broganmedia.com or asiasoccer@gmail.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Lung Cancer Patients Face a Void of Emotional Support
November 29, 2007
The International Psycho-Oncology Society Introduce a New
Global Quality of Life Initiative With the Support of
Roche
BASEL, Switzerland, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Concerning results from a Europe-wide survey released today
during Lung Cancer Awareness Month reveal that one in three
lung cancer patients feel that they are not receiving the
emotional support they need to manage their
life-threatening disease. Patients surveyed say support is
essential during their diagnosis and treatment, but many
are still not benefiting from the services available in
hospitals and patient groups because they do not address
the particular burdens unique to a lung cancer
diagnosis(1). Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer
and Europe's most deadly, claiming almost 1,000 lives every
day(2).
"Nothing prepared me for the wide range of
emotions that accompanies a lung cancer diagnosis,"
says lung cancer patient Ana Motta, Spain, who was
diagnosed in January 2007. "Programs that are
developed with our feelings in mind are sorely needed,
especially those that we can use when we are at
home."
To fill the void currently faced by lung cancer
patients and their caregivers, Roche and the International
Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) have introduced INSPIRE, an
innovative global initiative to improve quality of life for
lung cancer patients worldwide. This unique program will
provide patients and caregivers with comprehensive
practical and emotional guidance that is customised to
their needs. It will include:
- Coping and self-help techniques
- Advice to improve communication among patients,
caregivers and health
care professionals
- Relaxation methods to help patients take a more
positive and active
role in their cancer care.
The INSPIRE resources will be available next year, in
formats adapted to suit each country, including, but not
limited to, booklets, CD-ROMs and online programs.
"Emotionally, lung cancer patients have a
particularly difficult journey because they are often
diagnosed at a very advanced stage of their disease,"
says Dr. Luigi Grassi, President of IPOS and Professor and
Chair of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Italy. "It
is, therefore, critical that we have programs and support
vehicles that are designed with the specific needs in mind
of lung cancer patients and their carers/families. IPOS is
pleased to be involved with Roche in this first-of-its-kind
patient program."
Psycho-oncology is a growing discipline within the area
of cancer care, focusing on the psychological, behavioral
and social impact of cancer on patients and their
caregivers. When the emotional distress of lung cancer is
neglected, the patient's health and quality of life often
deteriorates. Psycho-oncologists help patients and their
caregivers to cope with their disease and to manage their
overwhelming emotions that often accompany a cancer
diagnosis and its treatment.
For more information on INSPIRE, please contact Lester
B. Davis, International Communication Manager, Tarceva at
Lester.Davis@Roche.com or May Baccari, Resolute
Communications at May.Baccari@resolutecommunications.com.
For more information about IPOS and how you can support
its critical programmes, visit http://www.ipos-society.org.
About the survey
Over a period of two months, 252 lung cancer patients
across the UK, Germany, Italy, France and Spain were
surveyed on their experiences with being diagnosed with and
treated for lung cancer. The survey was commissioned by
Roche and conducted by an independent research consultancy,
Patient Research, and was carried out using a combination of
telephone and internet methodologies. All survey respondents
were offered full anonymity and were qualified by the
researchers.
About IPOS
Since 1984, the International Psycho-Oncology Society
(IPOS) has been committed to developing the science of
psychosocial and behavioral oncology as it relates to
improving the care of cancer patients and their families,
as well as preventing cancer through healthy behaviors.
IPOS is an individual membership society serving
psycho-oncology professionals throughout the world and an
umbrella organization serving national societies that
represent over 5,000 research and clinical professionals in
more than 50 countries. Psycho-oncology stakeholders are
multidisciplinary and include physicians, psychologists,
nurses, social workers, rehabilitation specialists,
epidemiologists, social scientists and educators.
About Roche
Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Roche is one of
the world's leading research-focused healthcare groups in
the fields of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. As the
world's biggest biotech company and an innovator of
products and services for the early detection, prevention,
diagnosis and treatment of diseases, the Group contributes
on a broad range of fronts to improving people's health and
quality of life. Roche is the world leader in in-vitro
diagnostics and drugs for cancer and transplantation, a
market leader in virology and active in other major
therapeutic areas such as autoimmune diseases,
inflammation, metabolic disorders and diseases of the
central nervous system. Additional information is available
on the Internet at www.roche.com.
All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are
protected by law.
Disclaimer: Cautionary statement regarding
forward-looking statements
This document contains certain forward-looking
statements. These forward-looking statements may be
identified by words such as 'believes', 'expects',
'anticipates', 'projects', 'intends', 'should', 'seeks',
'estimates', 'future' or similar expressions or by
discussion of, among other things, strategy, goals, plans
or intentions. Various factors may cause actual results to
differ materially in the future from those reflected in
forward-looking statements contained in this document,
among others: (1) pricing and product initiatives of
competitors; (2) legislative and regulatory developments
and economic conditions; (3) delay or inability in
obtaining regulatory approvals or bringing products to
market; (4) fluctuations in currency exchange rates and
general financial market conditions; (5) uncertainties in
the discovery, development or marketing of new products or
new uses of existing products, including without limitation
negative results of clinical trials or research projects,
unexpected side-effects of pipeline or marketed products;
(6) increased government pricing pressures; (7)
interruptions in production; (8) loss of or inability to
obtain adequate protection for intellectual property
rights; (9) litigation; (10) loss of key executives or
other employees; and (11) adverse publicity and news
coverage. The statement regarding earnings per share growth
is not a profit forecast and should not be interpreted to
mean that Roche's earnings or earnings per share for any
current or future period will necessarily match or exceed
the historical published earnings or earnings per share of
Roche.
References
1. Survey commissioned by Roche, conducted by Patient
Research, 2007.
2. IARC. GLOBOCAN 2002. Cancer Incidence, Mortality and
Prevalence
Worldwide (2002 estimates). Accessed 2007
(http://www-dep.iarc.fr/).
Media Relations Contacts
Lester B. Davis, International Communication Manager,
Tarceva
Email: Lester.Davis@Roche.com
May Baccari, Resolute Communications
Tel: +44-(0)20-7397-7496
Email: May.Baccari@resolutecommunications.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Digi International Reports 19.8% Increase in Revenue for Fiscal 2007 Over Fiscal 2006
November 29, 2007
MINNETONKA, Minn., Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Digi
International(R) Inc. (Nasdaq: DGII) reported revenue of
$173.3 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007
compared to $144.7 million for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 2006, an increase of $28.6 million, or 19.8%.
Other financial highlights for the quarter and the fiscal
year include:
-- Digi's net sales of $45.1 million in the fourth
quarter of fiscal
2007 is the highest net sales achieved in the past
thirty-one
quarters, and represents a 9.8% increase over the
net sales for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
-- Digi has reported net income for nineteen
consecutive quarters.
-- Operating income for fiscal 2007 increased by 53.7%
over fiscal 2006.
-- Net income for fiscal 2007 was $19.8 million, or
11.4% of net sales.
Net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 was
84.9% higher than
the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, including the
impact of discrete
income tax benefits in both periods.
-- Digi met its annual revenue and earnings per share
guidance, generated
strong cash from operations, and continued to
maintain a healthy
balance sheet in fiscal 2007.
Revenue from embedded products in the fourth quarter of
2007 was $20.6 million, an increase of $3.3 million, or
19.4%, compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
Revenue from non-embedded products was $24.5 million in the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, an increase of $0.7 million,
or 2.9%, compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
MaxStream-branded product revenue was $5.6 million for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 compared to $3.2 million for
the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, which includes revenue
from the date of acquisition of July 27, 2006.
Digi reported net income of $5.6 million for the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2007, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared
with $3.0 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, or
$0.12 per diluted share. Reversals of tax reserves
associated with the settlements of foreign tax audits and
other discrete tax benefits increased earnings per diluted
share by $0.03 and $0.04 in the fourth quarter of fiscal
2007 and 2006, respectively. In-process research and
development and other acquisition-related expenses
associated with MaxStream reduced earnings per diluted
share by $0.08 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
Earnings per diluted share were $0.18 and $0.16 for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively,
excluding the aforementioned items.
Gross profit margin in the fourth quarter of fiscal
2007 was 52.8% compared with 52.4% during the same quarter
of fiscal 2006. Gross profit margin includes the
amortization of identifiable intangibles for purchased and
core technology, shown separately on our Condensed
Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Total operating expenses were $17.6 million, or 39.1%
of net sales, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 compared
to $18.1 million, or 44.2% of net sales, in the fourth
quarter of 2006. Operating expenses for fiscal 2006 include
a charge of $2.0 million for in-process research and
development associated with the acquisition of MaxStream.
For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006,
operating income was $20.3 million and $13.2 million,
respectively, or an increase of 53.7%.
Digi reported net income of $19.8 million in fiscal
2007, or $0.76 per diluted share, compared with $11.1
million, or $0.46 per diluted share, for fiscal 2006. Digi
recorded benefits associated with reversals of tax reserves
and other discrete tax benefits that increased earnings per
diluted share by $0.17 and $0.04 for fiscal 2007 and 2006,
respectively. Acquired in-process research and development
charges and other acquisition-related expenses reduced
earnings per diluted share by $0.09 in fiscal 2006.
Earnings per diluted share were $0.59 and $0.51 for fiscal
2007 and 2006, respectively, excluding the aforementioned
items.
Digi's cash and cash equivalents and marketable
securities balance, including long-term marketable
securities, was $87.6 million at September 30, 2007, an
increase of $28.7 million over the cash and cash
equivalents and marketable securities balance at the end of
fiscal 2006. At September 30, 2007, Digi's current ratio is
6.4 to 1, and the Company has no debt other than capital
lease obligations.
"Fiscal 2007 was a very strong year for
Digi," said Joe Dunsmore, Digi's Chief Executive
Officer. "Our revenue growth of almost 20% and the
53.7% year over year improvement in our operating income
demonstrates a very strong positive momentum for our
business. As we move into fiscal 2008, we expect our
drop-in networking products will provide the impetus to
continue that momentum."
Fiscal 2007 Business Highlights:
-- Digi united wireless technologies to pioneer
"Drop-In Networking,"with
the introduction of the ConnectPort X product
family, a line of IP
gateways that provide seamless connectivity of
Zigbee(R), Wi-Fi(R),
cellular, and Ethernet traffic to centralized
applications and
databases. Drop-In Networking solutions provide
end-to-end wireless
connectivity to commercial grade electronic devices
in locations where
wires don't exist or satisfy customer needs.
-- Digi strengthened its leadership position in
easy-to-use Zigbee(R)
technology with the expansion of the MaxStream XBee
brand to include
an embedded product with full mesh networking
capabilities.
-- Digi launched a Stand-Alone Wireless Modem product
line, based on
acquired MaxStream(R) technology, which provides
simple, low-cost
serial and Ethernet cable replacement.
-- Digi extended its family of cellular routers with
support of the
latest 3G technologies, including HSDPA for
GSM-based carrier networks
and EVDO Rev A for CDMA-based carrier networks.
These latest
generation routers are certified on the three
largest carrier networks
in the U.S., which include AT&T, Sprint, and
Verizon, as well as
numerous international networks.
-- Digi moved the Rabbit brand strongly into the
embedded wireless market
with two new wireless RabbitCore(R) modules and a
new Rabbit Wireless
Control Application Kit. The modules, one with
integrated Wi-Fi(R)
and the other with integrated Zigbee(R), are the
latest addition to
the popular family of pin-compatible RabbitCore
modules.
-- Digi increased its access to embedded markets by
rolling out a new
approach to ARM embedded development. Digi
JumpStart Kits(TM) are
sub $500 development kits that get design engineers
started in
developing complex NetOS, Linux, and WinCE based
embedded products
within 30 minutes.
-- Digi expanded its strong embedded development
relationship with
Microsoft with two industry firsts. The Digi
Connect ME Jumpstart Kit
for Microsoft .NET Micro Framework was the
industry's first Ethernet
networking solution for .NET Micro Framework. Digi
was also the first
company to offer a Windows(R) Embedded CE 6.0 board
support package
(BSP) for ARM processors and wireless networking.
As a Microsoft Gold
Certified Partner, Digi is one of the Microsoft
Business Partners who
receives the highest level of customer endorsement.
2008 Guidance
For fiscal year 2008, Digi projects revenue to be in
the range of $197 million to $207 million, or an increase
over fiscal year 2007 revenue of 14% to 19%. Digi projects
earnings per diluted share to be in a range of $0.69 to
$0.87. Projected fiscal 2008 earnings per diluted share of
$0.69 to $0.87 represents a 17% to 47% increase over fiscal
2007 earnings per diluted share, excluding the discrete tax
benefits of $0.17 recorded in fiscal 2007.
Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2007 Conference Call
Details
Digi invites all those interested in hearing
management's discussion of its fourth quarter and year end
earnings results on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at 5:00 p.m.
EDT (4:00 p.m. CT), to join the call by dialing (800)
952-4645. International participants may access the call
by dialing (212) 231-2901. A replay will be available two
hours after the completion of the call, and for one week
following the call, by dialing (800) 633-8284 for domestic
participants or (402) 977-9140 for international
participants and entering access code 21351615 when
prompted. Participants may also access a live webcast of
the conference call through the investor relations section
of Digi's website, http://www.digi.com .
This release contains a non-GAAP disclosure for
earnings per diluted share for the three and twelve month
periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, excluding the
impact of acquisition-related expenses, the reversal of tax
reserves, and other discrete tax benefits associated with
the closure of tax audits and tax periods. Additional
details related to these non-GAAP disclosures are provided
in the Form 8-K that Digi filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on the date of this earnings release.
For the table provides a reconciliation of the non-GAAP
measures described above to the most directly comparable
GAAP measure, and the full financial tables, please refer
to: http://www.digi.com.cn/news/half_part.jsp .
For more information, please contact:
Asia Pacific
Hokie Chan
Digi International Channel Marketing Manager
Tel: +852-2235-2206
Email: Hokie.chan@digi.com
Beijing, China
Caren Xiao
Marketing Communication Specialist
Tel: +86-10-6561-8310 ext 12
Email: caren.xiao@digi.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Digi International Reports 19.8% Increase in Revenue for Fiscal 2007 Over Fiscal 2006
November 29, 2007
MINNETONKA, Minn., Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Digi
International(R) Inc. (Nasdaq: DGII) reported revenue of
$173.3 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007
compared to $144.7 million for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 2006, an increase of $28.6 million, or 19.8%.
Other financial highlights for the quarter and the fiscal
year include:
-- Digi¡¦s net sales of $45.1 million in the fourth
quarter of fiscal
2007 is the highest net sales achieved in the past
thirty-one
quarters, and represents a 9.8% increase over the
net sales for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
-- Digi has reported net income for nineteen
consecutive quarters.
-- Operating income for fiscal 2007 increased by 53.7%
over fiscal 2006.
-- Net income for fiscal 2007 was $19.8 million, or
11.4% of net sales.
Net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 was
84.9% higher
than the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, including
the impact of
discrete income tax benefits in both periods.
-- Digi met its annual revenue and earnings per share
guidance,
generated strong cash from operations, and continued
to maintain a
healthy balance sheet in fiscal 2007.
Revenue from embedded products in the fourth quarter of
2007 was $20.6 million, an increase of $3.3 million, or
19.4%, compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
Revenue from non-embedded products was $24.5 million in the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, an increase of $0.7 million,
or 2.9%, compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
MaxStream-branded product revenue was $5.6 million for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 compared to $3.2 million for
the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, which includes revenue
from the date of acquisition of July 27, 2006.
Digi reported net income of $5.6 million for the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2007, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared
with $3.0 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, or
$0.12 per diluted share. Reversals of tax reserves
associated with the settlements of foreign tax audits and
other discrete tax benefits increased earnings per diluted
share by $0.03 and $0.04 in the fourth quarter of fiscal
2007 and 2006, respectively. In-process research and
development and other acquisition-related expenses
associated with MaxStream reduced earnings per diluted
share by $0.08 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.
Earnings per diluted share were $0.18 and $0.16 for the
fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 and 2006, respectively,
excluding the aforementioned items.
Gross profit margin in the fourth quarter of fiscal
2007 was 52.8% compared with 52.4% during the same quarter
of fiscal 2006. Gross profit margin includes the
amortization of identifiable intangibles for purchased and
core technology, shown separately on our Condensed
Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Total operating expenses were $17.6 million, or 39.1%
of net sales, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 compared
to $18.1 million, or 44.2% of net sales, in the fourth
quarter of 2006. Operating expenses for fiscal 2006 include
a charge of $2.0 million for in-process research and
development associated with the acquisition of MaxStream.
For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2007 and 2006,
operating income was $20.3 million and $13.2 million,
respectively, or an increase of 53.7%.
Digi reported net income of $19.8 million in fiscal
2007, or $0.76 per diluted share, compared with $11.1
million, or $0.46 per diluted share, for fiscal 2006. Digi
recorded benefits associated with reversals of tax reserves
and other discrete tax benefits that increased earnings per
diluted share by $0.17 and $0.04 for fiscal 2007 and 2006,
respectively. Acquired in-process research and development
charges and other acquisition-related expenses reduced
earnings per diluted share by $0.09 in fiscal 2006.
Earnings per diluted share were $0.59 and $0.51 for fiscal
2007 and 2006, respectively, excluding the aforementioned
items.
Digi¡¦s cash and cash equivalents and marketable
securities balance, including long-term marketable
securities, was $87.6 million at September 30, 2007, an
increase of $28.7 million over the cash and cash
equivalents and marketable securities balance at the end of
fiscal 2006. At September 30, 2007, Digi¡¦s current ratio is
6.4 to 1, and the Company has no debt other than capital
lease obligations.
"Fiscal 2007 was a very strong year for
Digi," said Joe Dunsmore, Digi¡¦s Chief Executive
Officer. "Our revenue growth of almost 20% and the
53.7% year over year improvement in our operating income
demonstrates a very strong positive momentum for our
business. As we move into fiscal 2008, we expect our
drop-in networking products will provide the impetus to
continue that momentum."
Fiscal 2007 Business Highlights:
-- Digi united wireless technologies to pioneer
"Drop-In Networking,"
with the introduction of the ConnectPort X product
family, a line of
IP gateways that provide seamless connectivity of
Zigbee(R), Wi-Fi
(R), cellular, and Ethernet traffic to centralized
applications and
databases. Drop-In Networking solutions provide
end-to-end wireless
connectivity to commercial grade electronic devices
in locations
where wires don¡¦t exist or satisfy customer needs.
-- Digi strengthened its leadership position in
easy-to-use Zigbee(R)
technology with the expansion of the MaxStream XBee
brand to include
an embedded product with full mesh networking
capabilities.
-- Digi launched a Stand-Alone Wireless Modem product
line, based on
acquired MaxStream(R) technology, which provides
simple, low-cost
serial and Ethernet cable replacement.
-- Digi extended its family of cellular routers with
support of the
latest 3G technologies, including HSDPA for
GSM-based carrier
networks and EVDO Rev A for CDMA-based carrier
networks. These
latest generation routers are certified on the three
largest carrier
networks in the U.S., which include AT&T,
Sprint, and Verizon, as
well as numerous international networks.
-- Digi moved the Rabbit brand strongly into the
embedded wireless
market with two new wireless RabbitCore(R) modules
and a new Rabbit
Wireless Control Application Kit. The modules, one
with integrated
Wi-Fi(R) and the other with integrated Zigbee(R),
are the latest
addition to the popular family of pin-compatible
RabbitCore modules.
-- Digi increased its access to embedded markets by
rolling out a new
approach to ARM embedded development. Digi
JumpStart Kits(TM) are
sub $500 development kits that get design engineers
started in
developing complex NetOS, Linux, and WinCE based
embedded products
within 30 minutes.
-- Digi expanded its strong embedded development
relationship with
Microsoft with two industry firsts. The Digi
Connect ME Jumpstart
Kit for Microsoft .NET Micro Framework was the
industry¡¦s first
Ethernet networking solution for .NET Micro
Framework. Digi was also
the first company to offer a Windows(R) Embedded CE
6.0 board support
package (BSP) for ARM processors and wireless
networking. As a
Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, Digi is one of the
Microsoft
Business Partners who receives the highest level of
customer
endorsement.
2008 Guidance
For fiscal year 2008, Digi projects revenue to be in
the range of $197 million to $207 million, or an increase
over fiscal year 2007 revenue of 14% to 19%. Digi projects
earnings per diluted share to be in a range of $0.69 to
$0.87. Projected fiscal 2008 earnings per diluted share of
$0.69 to $0.87 represents a 17% to 47% increase over fiscal
2007 earnings per diluted share, excluding the discrete tax
benefits of $0.17 recorded in fiscal 2007.
Fourth Quarter and Year-End 2007 Conference Call
Details
Digi invites all those interested in hearing
management¡¦s discussion of its fourth quarter and year end
earnings results on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at 5:00 p.m.
EDT (4:00 p.m. CT), to join the call by dialing (800)
952-4645. International participants may access the call
by dialing (212) 231-2901. A replay will be available two
hours after the completion of the call, and for one week
following the call, by dialing (800) 633-8284 for domestic
participants or (402) 977-9140 for international
participants and entering access code 21351615 when
prompted. Participants may also access a live webcast of
the conference call through the investor relations section
of Digi¡¦s website, http://www.digi.com .
This release contains a non-GAAP disclosure for
earnings per diluted share for the three and twelve month
periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, excluding the
impact of acquisition-related expenses, the reversal of tax
reserves, and other discrete tax benefits associated with
the closure of tax audits and tax periods. Additional
details related to these non-GAAP disclosures are provided
in the Form 8-K that Digi filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on the date of this earnings release.
For the table provides a reconciliation of the non-GAAP
measures described above to the most directly comparable
GAAP measure, and the full financial tables, please refer
to: http://www.digi.com.cn/news/half_part.jsp .
Press Contacts:
Asia Pacific
Hokie Chan
Digi International Channel Marketing Manager
Tel: +852-2235-2206
Email: Hokie.chan@digi.com
Beijing, China
Caren Xiao
Marketing Communication Specialist
Tel: +86-10-6561-8310 ext 12
Email: caren.xiao@digi.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Forbes Ranks Global Sources Among Asia's `Best Under a Billion'
November 29, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Forbes has
selected Global Sources (Nasdaq: GSOL) as one of Asia's 200
`Best Under a Billion' companies. The annual list draws
from over 22,500 publicly listed companies with revenues of
less than US$1 billion.
(Logo: http://www.xprn.com/xprn/sa/200708071747.jpg )
Forbes Asia's editors picked Global Sources (
http://www.globalsources.com ) based on its consistent
profitability and growth over the past three years. The
complete list is available in the Oct. 1, 2007 issue of
Forbes Asia, as well as at http://www.forbes.com/BUB .
Global Sources' Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs,
said: "We are honored to once again be recognized by
Forbes from among the thousands of companies considered.
"Since we began 36 years ago, we've had an
unwavering focus on delivering quality services for our
buyer and supplier communities, which has enabled us to
continuously drive growth and build profitability. Global
Sources Online 2.0, which we launched in October of this
year, is the latest example of our efforts. It provides
buyers with the leading search experience in our industry,
delivering comprehensive search results, plus the
capability to identify verified suppliers.
"We are extremely pleased with our position in the
market, with our prospects for long-term growth and success,
and with our clear differentiation. Our integrated offering
of online marketplaces, magazines and trade shows is a
powerful differentiator, as is our recognized leadership
serving the higher end of both the buyer and supplier
communities."
About Global Sources
Global Sources is a leading business-to-business (B2B)
media company and a primary facilitator of two-way trade
with Greater China. The core business is facilitating
trade from Greater China to the world, using a wide range
of English-language media. The other key business segment
facilitates trade from the world to Greater China using
Chinese-language media.
The company provides sourcing information to volume
buyers and integrated marketing services to suppliers. It
helps a community of over 647,000 active buyers source more
profitably from complex overseas supply markets. With the
goal of providing the most effective ways possible to
advertise, market and sell, Global Sources enables
suppliers to sell to hard-to-reach buyers in over 230
countries.
The company offers the most extensive range of media
and export marketing services in the industries it serves.
It delivers information on 2 million products and more than
160,000 suppliers annually through 14 online marketplaces,
13 monthly magazines, over 100 sourcing research reports
and nine specialized trade shows which run 22 times a year
across seven cities.
Suppliers receive more than 23 million sales leads
annually from buyers through Global Sources Online (
http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.
Global Sources has been facilitating global trade for
36 years. In mainland China it has over 2,000 team members
in 44 locations, and a community of over 1 million
registered online users and magazine readers for
Chinese-language media.
Safe Harbor Statement
This news release contains forward-looking statements
within the meaning of Section 27-A of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended and Section 21-E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended. The company's actual results could
differ materially from those set forth in the
forward-looking statements as a result of the risks
associated with the company's business, changes in general
economic conditions, and changes in the assumptions used in
making such forward-looking statements.
For more information, please contact:
Global Sources Press Contact in Asia:
Camellia So
Tel: +852-2555-5021
Email: cso@globalsources.com
Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia:
Eddie Heng
Tel: +65-6547-2850
Email: eheng@globalsources.com
Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.:
James W.W. Strachan
Tel: +1-480-664-8309
Email: strachan@globalsources.com
Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.:
Moriah Shilton & Christiane Pelz
Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
Tel: +1-415-433-3777
Email: cpelz@lhai.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Forbes Ranks Global Sources Among Asia¡¦s ¡¥Best Under a Billion¡¦
November 29, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Forbes has selected Global Sources (Nasdaq: GSOL) as one of
Asia¡¦s 200 ¡¥Best Under a Billion¡¦ companies. The annual
list draws from over 22,500 publicly listed companies with
revenues of less than US$1 billion.
(Logo: http://www.xprn.com/xprn/sa/200708071747.jpg )
Forbes Asia¡¦s editors picked Global Sources (
http://www.globalsources.com ) based on its consistent
profitability and growth over the past three years. The
complete list is available in the Oct. 1, 2007 issue of
Forbes Asia, as well as at http://www.forbes.com/BUB .
Global Sources¡¦ Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs,
said: "We are
honored to once again be recognized by Forbes from among
the thousands of companies considered.
"Since we began 36 years ago, we¡¦ve had an
unwavering focus on delivering quality services for our
buyer and supplier communities, which has enabled us to
continuously drive growth and build profitability. Global
Sources Online 2.0, which we launched in October of this
year, is the latest example of our efforts. It provides
buyers with the leading search experience in our industry,
delivering comprehensive search results, plus the
capability to identify verified suppliers.
"We are extremely pleased with our position in the
market, with our prospects for long-term growth and success,
and with our clear differentiation. Our integrated offering
of online marketplaces, magazines and trade shows is a
powerful differentiator, as is our recognized leadership
serving the higher end of both the buyer and supplier
communities."
About Global Sources
Global Sources is a leading business-to-business (B2B)
media company and a primary facilitator of two-way trade
with Greater China. The core business is facilitating
trade from Greater China to the world, using a wide range
of English-language media. The other key business segment
facilitates trade from the world to Greater China using
Chinese-language media.
The company provides sourcing information to volume
buyers and integrated marketing services to suppliers. It
helps a community of over 647,000 active buyers source more
profitably from complex overseas supply markets. With the
goal of providing the most effective ways possible to
advertise, market and sell, Global Sources enables
suppliers to sell to hard-to-reach buyers in over 230
countries.
The company offers the most extensive range of media
and export marketing services in the industries it serves.
It delivers information on 2 million products and more than
160,000 suppliers annually through 14 online marketplaces,
13 monthly magazines, over 100 sourcing research reports
and nine specialized trade shows which run 22 times a year
across seven cities.
Suppliers receive more than 23 million sales leads
annually from buyers through Global Sources Online (
http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.
Global Sources has been facilitating global trade for
36 years. In mainland China it has over 2,000 team members
in 44 locations, and a community of over 1 million
registered online users and magazine readers for
Chinese-language media.
Safe Harbor Statement
This news release contains forward-looking statements
within the meaning of Section 27-A of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended and Section 21-E of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended. The company¡¦s actual results
could differ materially from those set forth in the
forward-looking statements as a result of the risks
associated with the company¡¦s business, changes in general
economic conditions, and changes in the assumptions used in
making such forward-looking statements.
Global Sources Press Contact in Asia:
Camellia So
Tel: +852-2555-5021
Email: cso@globalsources.com
Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia:
Eddie Heng
Tel: +65-6547-2850
Email: eheng@globalsources.com
Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.:
James W.W. Strachan
Tel: +1-480-664-8309
Email: strachan@globalsources.com
Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.:
Moriah Shilton & Christiane Pelz
Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
Tel: +1-415-433-3777
Email: cpelz@lhai.com
2007'12.07.Fri
New Asia Pacific Statistics Reveal an Alarming Incidence of HIV in MSM
November 29, 2007
APCOM Ready to Play a Key Role as Governments and Civil
Society in the Region Ponder Urgent Strategies to Tackle
the Crisis
NEW DELHI, India, BEIJING and BANGKOK, Thailand, Nov.
29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- On World AIDS Day 2007, hundreds,
perhaps thousands, of men who have sex with men (MSM) will
become infected with HIV in cities across the Asia Pacific,
becoming the latest statistics in an almost unrecognized but
ever-growing crisis that many governments in the region are
only just beginning to grapple with. As these efforts take
shape, the Asia Pacific Coalition on Male Sexual Health
(APCOM) is offering its partnership to develop and support
new strategies aimed at tackling this regional challenge.
Paradoxically, it may be more challenging for APCOM to
draw attention to the MSM HIV issue. The recent adjustment
downwards of global HIV and AIDS figures has been construed
in some quarters as an indication that the AIDS crisis has
been "exaggerated" all along. However, APCOM and
the stakeholders it represents are urging the Asia Pacific
region, and indeed the world, not to confuse the true
picture.
Most MSM who contract HIV in city after city in the
Asia Pacific region will never know they harbour the virus
until they become ill with advanced symptoms. Without that
knowledge, they probably will not change the very behaviours
that put them, as well as their partners and loved ones, at
risk. A recent survey in a major Asian capital suggested
as many as 32% of MSM there are HIV positive. In other
cities across the region, HIV infection rates for MSM range
from estimates anywhere from 5% to 15% or 20% and higher.
"Despite MSM having higher infection rates than
the general adult population, the financial investment for
HIV prevention, care and support services for this
marginalized group across the Asia Pacific is abysmally low
in national HIV and AIDS programme planning, usually between
zero and four percent," says Shivananda Khan, APCOM
Chairperson and CEO of Naz Foundation International.
"Less than one in ten MSM in the region have access to
any sort of HIV services, woefully short of the eight in ten
that UNAIDS describes as optimal coverage necessary for
high-risk groups. Is it any surprise then that we really
don't have a clear picture of the true extent of the HIV
crisis affecting men who have sex with men?"
Edmund Settle, HIV/AIDS Programme Manager for UNDP
China, concurs. "You've got these really alarming
statistics of ten, 20, 30 percent HIV infection rates among
MSM in some major cities, but when you ask whether this
picture holds true across other urban centres, or even in
suburban or rural areas, the answer's not at all simple.
It ranges from `Yes, it's somewhat likely' to `Well, we're
not really certain.' Still, we do know more today than just
a couple of years ago."
That growing clarity comes from a recent review of
available data, soon to be released by UNAIDS, that
describes the epidemiology of HIV and sexually transmitted
infections (STI), and behaviours of MSM in the Asia Pacific
region that put them at considerable risk of HIV and STI.
As the paper states: "Severe and established HIV
epidemics are found among MSM in some countries while
imminent or beginning HIV epidemics were observed in
others." The review also recommends ways to change
policy and programming that would confront this challenge
and help improve the situation.
"This collection of data in the upcoming review
allows us to highlight more accurately than before the
extent of the HIV scenario vis-¨¤-vis MSM in our
region," according to Geoff Manthey, Regional Advisor
on MSM for Asia Pacific UNAIDS Regional Support Team
(RST-AP). "It also comes at a most opportune time,
with the recent creation of the Asia Pacific Coalition on
Male Sexual Health. We hope that the work of APCOM, and
its strength in bringing together representatives from
governments, the UN system, donors and NGOs side by side
with affected communities will finally make the difference
in creating a truly regional strategy to address the MSM
HIV crisis -- and yes, even though it's an overused word or
sounds like a clich¨¦, this is a crisis, make no mistake
about that."
In 2006, a year before APCOM's creation, JVR Prasada
Rao, director of UNAIDS RST-AP, had warned that "data
in Asia show that without interventions, male to male sex
will become one of the main sources of new HIV infections
in the region." He added, "We are facing a
public health crisis, but you would never know it from the
region's almost invisible response so far" -- a fact
supported by a UNAIDS report published this past August,
Men who have sex with men -- the missing piece in national
responses to AIDS in Asia and the Pacific.
The China Center for Disease Control and Prevention
(CCDC) recently stated that HIV prevention for MSM was the
latest hurdle for the government's drive to curb a
fast-rising AIDS epidemic. In fact, China -- the world's
most populous nation -- was the first country in the region
to issue a specific national framework on MSM and HIV, which
calls for urgent efforts to engage civil society in a
concerted effort to reach out to men who have sex with men.
China recently reported that male to male sexual
transmission now accounts for 12.5 percent of new HIV cases
in 2007, up from 2.5 percent in 2005.
Reflecting the growing regional awareness for enhanced
surveillance that incorporates epidemiology as well as
sociocultural awareness, the Center for HIV/AIDS/STI (CHAS)
in Laos PDR has conducted the first survey of HIV among MSM
in Laos and will soon be releasing the results. As
governments and health partners across the Asia Pacific
wake up to the realization that national HIV prevention
strategies must include a significant MSM component, APCOM
and its partners stand ready to support and strengthen such
approaches.
"All of these surveys, these papers, these data
and statistics represent hope that our region is making a
breakthrough," says Dede Oetomo, who sits on APCOM's
interim governing board and is a noted long-time gay
activist in Indonesia, a country with limited but
successful and well-documented results in HIV and STI
prevention among MSM. "However, the good work that's
emerged in recent times also serves as a warning that the
hard work now really begins. With the multisectoral
strength that APCOM provides, we are poised to finally
reach out to MSM groups in a way that hasn't been possible
before. It's an important, exciting time -- full of
challenges, yet full of promise. Let's go forward now and
get the work done."
For more information, please contact:
Shivananda Khan / New Delhi: +91-98-3922-1091
(mobile)
Paul Causey / Bangkok: +66-81-984-6515
(mobile)
Edmund Settle / Beijing: +86-139-1136-3025
(mobile)
Geoff Manthey / Bangkok: +66-81-870-2175
(mobile)
APCOM BACKGROUND
A concept that grew out of the mounting HIV crisis in
MSM populations across the Asia Pacific, APCOM was formally
launched in July 2007. APCOM is a direct outcome of the
Male Sexual Health and HIV in Asia and the Pacific
International Consultation held in New Delhi in late 2006.
This three-day consultation brought together community
members, government officials, policy makers and
researchers to provide an opportunity to inform and develop
strategic advocacy initiatives on key policy issues
concerning MSM and the transgender community.
Opened to regional and sub-regional networks, as well
as national networks and individual organizations, APCOM is
governed by a 19-member Governing Board comprised of
community representatives from 7 Asia Pacific sub-regions:
the Pacific (including New Zealand), South Asia (including
Mongolia but excluding India), Greater Mekong (GMS), South
East Asia (excluding GMS), Developed Asia (Japan, South
Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Australia), China
and India. In addition, the board will consist of
representatives from the transgender community, government
sector, donors and a communication advisor. UNAIDS, UNDP
and UNESCO will support APCOM as technical advisors.
A coalition of governments, UN partners, donors, NGOs
and populations that are directly affected by the AIDS
epidemic, APCOM's goals are ambitious but have been
meticulously planned. Through increased participation and
MSM representation in regional and global bodies and
conferences, APCOM will seek to scale up and increase
attention to the needs of MSM in general and HIV issues in
particular. Forums that APCOM has been, or will be,
represented at include ASEAN ministerial meetings, ICAAP-9
and the 2008 International AIDS Conference in Mexico.
By the leveraging of technical assistance, support and
mentoring to MSM HIV projects, state and national
governments and to existing technical assistance
facilities, as well as by identifying and assisting the
development of MSM and HIV networks, APCOM will strengthen
community work and help partnerships so that work can be
shared and improved upon.
With the current vacuum of data on MSM and HIV in Asia
(although recent surveys and reports are gradually filling
some gaps), a critical role for APCOM is to assess and
track -- country by country -- both the degree and quality
of inclusion of MSM and HIV issues, and to report on
national AIDS plans. All the while, APCOM will seek to
promote the principles of good practice and lessons learnt
to policy makers, service providers and MSM based on
qualitative research and cost effective studies.
An APCOM website is being developed to serve as a focal
point for information and examples of good practice, a
repository of research papers with practical applications
as well as publications for anyone interested in the issues
of HIV and MSM, including academics, policy makers and
members of the MSM community itself. The website will also
be an online governance tool for APCOM's trustees and for
its members. APCOM will work with UNESCO in the creation
of a companion website envisioned to be a clearing house
for state-of-the-art information, BCC/IEC materials and
research data on MSM and HIV (particularly in the Asia
Pacific). The APCOM website, scheduled to be online in
early 2008, will be located at http://www.msmasia.org .
APCOM's temporary office is based in New Delhi.
Contact information:
apcom@msmasia.org
Aditya Bondyopadhyay,
Secretariat Coordinator,
Flat 25 DDA SFS, Sector-6, Pocket-1,
Dwarka, New Delhi-110075, India
Tel: +91-981-117-0181 or +91-931-117-0181
2007'12.07.Fri
World Children's Day at McDonald's Raises Millions to Help Children
November 29, 2007
Funds Raised Support Ronald McDonald House Charities
Expansion Plans; Entertainers Help Honor Ronald McDonald
House Charities Heroes from Around the World
NEW YORK, Nov. 20 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Five everyday
heroes from around the world were honored today for their
inspiring work on behalf of children in need as part of
World Children's Day at McDonald's. The celebration took
place today at the Ronald McDonald House of New York City,
where McDonald's USA President Don Thompson was joined by
entertainment stars Hayden Panettiere from NBC-TV's
"Heroes;" multi-platinum artist and songwriter,
Ne-Yo; actress, singer and comedienne Angelica Vale; and
celebrity chef Ron Bilaro.
"As we host World Children's Day across the globe,
we think of the children and families who have been helped
in times of real need," said Don Thompson, president,
McDonald's USA. "We are grateful to everyone who makes
it possible to help children through Ronald McDonald House
Charities (RMHC) and other worthy children's causes, and we
hope many more will be inspired to offer support. That is
what World Children's Day is all about."
The entertainment stars joined the "Friends of
RMHC" network of more than 30,000 volunteers who
support the Charities' programs in countries across the
globe. "It is very fulfilling to assist children in
need as well as their families," said Panettiere.
"I am honored to support World Children's Day and
Ronald McDonald House Charities to help bring attention to
this very special cause."
World Children's Day at McDonald's is a worldwide
annual fundraising effort that comes to life at McDonald's
restaurants in more than 100 countries thanks to McDonald's
customers, owners/operators, employees and suppliers. Since
its inception in 2002, World Children's Day at McDonald's
has raised $100 million to help children and families
through RMHC programs, including Ronald McDonald Houses,
Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles,
grants and scholarships, plus other children's charities.
At today's event, RMHC also announced a goal to raise
$600 million over the next four years to:
-- Build 68 new Ronald McDonald Houses, for a total of
339, and expand 30
existing Houses, so that each night 8,000 families
will be able to call
a Ronald McDonald House home;
-- Open 56 more Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, raising
the number to 171,
so RMHC can serve a total of a million and a half
families per year,
and
-- Roll out 23 new Ronald McDonald Care Mobiles,
bringing the fleet to 54,
enabling RMHC to serve more than 420,000 children
each year with dental
and medical care in their neighborhoods, where they
need it.
McDonald's Give A Hand Award:
The first-ever McDonald's Give A Hand Awards were
presented today to five everyday heroes who have overcome
hardships with the help of RMHC, or who do inspiring work
as volunteers for the Charity. Panettiere, Ne-Yo, Vale, and
Bilaro joined McDonald's and RMHC executives to present the
Give A Hand Awards. The awardees are:
-- Gabriela Lebenas from Buenos Aires, Argentina - the
first Argentine
RMHC volunteer who helped establish three Ronald
McDonald Houses and
the first Care Mobile outside the U.S. in her
country.
-- Dr. Elvira Directo from Manila, Philippines - an
educator for the
Department of Education who has volunteered her time
and educational
skills to extend the Philippines RMHC "Bright
Minds Read" program to 20
additional cities reaching more than 900 elementary
schools.
-- Robert Korzeniowski from Warsaw, Poland - a renowned
athlete who, after
overcoming a serious rheumatic illness when he was a
teenager, went on
to win four Olympic gold medals in race walking.
Robert now serves as a
member of the Board of RMHC Poland and is an active
supporter of World
Children's Day.
-- Barbara Nelms from Pensacola, Florida - a long-time
volunteer and
supporter of RMHC who has logged over 700 volunteer
hours at her local
Ronald McDonald House. It is the support of
volunteers like Barbara
that makes Ronald McDonald Houses a true 'home away
from home.'
-- Jessie Rodriguez from Hazelton, Pennsylvania - a
16-year-old liver
transplant survivor who benefited from RMHC services
during her
diagnosis and recovery, living for periods of time
at the Delaware
Ronald McDonald House since she was ten years old.
She is now sharing
her story of hope to help others.
Friends of RMHC:
As part of the day's activities, RMHC President and CEO
Marty Coyne introduced a new dimension to the Friends of
RMHC program, with high-profile entertainers and sports
figures joining the ranks as volunteers.
Two of the Friends, Panettiere and Ne-Yo, are
conducting a multi-city tour to visit children and families
at a Ronald McDonald House, a Ronald McDonald Care Mobile
and a children's hospital. The tour began Monday in Dallas,
continued to Detroit, and culminates after the New York
global celebration with a stop in Philadelphia, where the
first Ronald McDonald House opened in 1974.
"We are extremely grateful to our new Friends for
using their visibility to raise awareness of RMHC and
improve children's lives around the world," said
Coyne.
Others joining the Friends of RMHC include:
"Access Hollywood's" Billy Bush;
"ESPN's" Trey Wingo; "Today Show's" Al
Roker; Supermodel Cindy Crawford; Celebrity stylist June
Ambrose; Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis; Actor and TV
host Mario Lopez; and Actress Dayanara Torres.
About Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities, a non-profit,
501(c)(3) corporation, creates, finds and supports programs
that directly improve the health and well being of children.
Its programs are grassroots-driven to enable the Charity to
offer help where children need it most: right in their own
communities. RMHC makes an immediate, positive impact on
children's lives through its global network of local
Chapters in nearly 50 countries and its three core
programs: the Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family
Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. RMHC and its global
network of local Chapters have awarded more than $440
million in grants and program services to children's
programs around the world. Since the Charity's inception in
1974, McDonald's has supported RMHC and its mission to
improve the health and well being of children. For more
information about RMHC visit http://www.rmhc.org.
About McDonald's
McDonald's is the leading foodservice retailer with
more than 30,000 local restaurants serving quality food to
more than 52 million customers in more than 100 countries
each day. Approximately 70 percent of McDonald's
restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by
independent, local men and women. For more information
about World Children's Day at McDonald's visit
http://www.mcdonalds.com.
McDonald's, World Children's Day, the World Children's
Day logo, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald
House, Ronald McDonald Family Room, RMHC, Ronald McDonald
Care Mobile, and Give A Hand are trademarks of McDonald's
Corporation and its affiliates.
2007'12.07.Fri
Accu-Sort(R) AV6010 Raises the Bar for Camera-based Auto ID
November 29, 2007
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Accu-Sort Systems, Inc., a world leader in industrial
high-speed camera-based identification solutions, today
announced the launch of the AV6010 Long Range Camera
System. Designed to deliver the easiest installation,
highest reliability and best performance for 1D and 2D bar
code reading as well as OCR and Video Coding Applications,
the AV6010 sets a new standard in the industry for a fully
integrated camera-based scanning solution.
The latest addition to the Accu-Vision(R) product line,
the AV6010 camera system will serve as the new technology
platform for future Accu-Sort products, and it offers
several industry firsts. The system cuts installation time
an estimated 70 percent over comparable systems, by using a
unique Auto Configuration Wizard and by integrating camera,
illumination, decoder, and power supplies into a single
unit. A unique internal network eliminates downtime caused
by camera failure, and a robust design raises mean time
between failure (MTBF) to an unprecedented level of
reliability. What's more, the AV6010 simplifies maintenance
with a novel modular design that enables plug-and-play
component replacement.
Ideal for high-speed parcel sortation, the AV6010 is
also suited for warehouse and distribution center
applications, where previously a high-end camera-based
solution may have been too complex.
The new AV6010 camera system delivers an unprecedented
75,000 hours MTBF. Yet it only takes 10 hours to install a
six-sided tunnel along with complete commissioning -- a 70
percent reduction in time when compared to installations of
comparable systems. Such breakthrough statistics are based
on an exclusive design, one in which all components --
camera, illumination, decoder, and power supplies -- are
integrated into one small-sized unit that comes with a
single HTML user interface.
Unlike any other camera sortation system, each major
component of the AV6010 is linked via an internal Ethernet
network. No single camera can cause system-wide failure
because its functionality can be assumed by any one of the
other cameras.
Each major AV6010 component also operates as a field
replaceable module. This "plug and play" design
sets another industry standard: unequalled ease of
maintenance and repair. Unlike traditional camera systems,
there is no need to recalibrate and realign when a component
fails. The AV6010's revolutionary modular design allows any
component to be replaced easily and independently.
For more information, call 1-800-BAR-CODE or visit the
Accu-Sort website at http://www.AV6010.com
About Accu-Sort
Accu-Sort Systems is a pioneer in advanced auto ID
systems with more than three decades of experience
deploying and supporting scanning, tracking and sortation
solutions in various industries including transportation,
logistics, industrial/manufacturing, and retail. The
company is one of the world's leading providers of
high-speed laser and camera-based solutions for barcode
reading, convergent RFID solutions, as well as complete
turn-key integrated systems solutions. 1-800-BAR-CODE or
http://www.accusort.com .
For High Resolution Image:
http://www.ggcomm.com/Accusort/AV6010.JPG
For more information, please contact:
Company contact
Koh Juay Meng
Accu-Sort Systems, Inc. / Asia Pacific
Tel: +65-6-844-8484
Email: jmkoh@accusort.com
Media contact
Joel Goldstein
Goldstein Group Communications
Tel: +1-216-573-2300
Email: jgoldstein@ggcomm.com
2007'12.07.Fri
K2 blackmarket(TM) Site Offers Code and Project Sharing
November 29, 2007
REDMOND, Wash., Nov. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- K2
blackmarket(TM), a code- and solution-sharing community
space, is live on K2Underground.com.
K2 blackmarket contains a wide variety of K2(R)
user-submitted content, such as process samples, forms, Web
parts, code snippets and other items. Any registered user
can access this content and submit new items.
Groups of community members can also collaborate on a
project and publish the result of that collaboration to the
site so the rest of the community can consume the work.
"The cache of valuable information on K2
blackmarket will continue to grow in the coming weeks and
months and years," says Chris Geier, K2 evangelism
program manager. "Sharing projects and code with other
members of the community can greatly enhance the learning
experience and reduce the learning curve that is inherently
part of getting to know new technologies."
K2 blackmarket instructional videos walk users through
the process of submitting content; and projects are clearly
labeled and categorized for easy navigation.
"K2 blackmarket lets new K2 users see how other
people are using the software, and seasoned K2 veterans can
use what others have created to enhance their own
projects," Geier says. "It's also a place to show
off the great work that our community is churning out with
K2 and surrounding technologies."
K2 blackpearl, the centerpiece of the new K2 platform,
was released in August, and it has been downloaded by more
than 300 customers and partners. The K2 software platform
extends business process management capabilities to equip
technical and business users with tools to design,
assemble, execute, monitor and optimize process-driven
applications -- dynamic business applications.
K2 software is built on the Microsoft platform and
integrates with Microsoft technologies -- including
SharePoint and Office -- to provide end users a familiar
work environment and experience.
About K2
K2-based solutions are deployed by a growing number of
the global Fortune 100. K2 is a division of SourceCode
Technology Holdings, Inc. based in Redmond, Washington, and
has offices all over the world.
Copyright (C) 2007. SourceCode Technology Holdings,
Inc. All rights reserved. Patents pending. Source Code, K2
and K2 blackmarket are registered trademarks or trademarks
of Source Code Technology Holdings, Inc. in the United
States and/or other countries. The names of actual
companies and products mentioned herein may be the
trademarks of their respective owners.
For more information, please contact:
Chris Tomeo
K2
Tel: +1-303-482-2189
Email: ctomeo@k2.com
2007'12.07.Fri
China BAK Battery Provides Business Update
November 28, 2007
SHENZHEN, China, Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/
-- China BAK Battery, Inc. ("China BAK", or
"BAK") (Nasdaq: CBAK), one of the largest
lithium-ion battery cell manufacturers in the world, as
measured by production output, today provided a business
update regarding results for the fourth quarter and the
fiscal year ended September 30, 2007. China BAK expects to
report its annual financial results with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on Form 10-K on December 14, 2007. The
financial results presented herein are preliminary, and it
is possible that adjustments could be made before China BAK
files its Form 10-K.
For the fourth quarter fiscal 2007 (FY07), BAK expects
to report net revenues of approximately $43.8 million, down
5.1% from $46.1 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal
2006 (FY06), but up 48.5% from $29.5 million for the third
quarter of FY07; gross profit of approximately $6.2
million, or 14.2% of revenues, down 47.5% from $11.8
million, or 25.6% of revenues, for the fourth quarter of
FY06, but up 22.5% from $5.1 million, or 17.2% of revenues,
for the third quarter of FY07; and net loss of approximately
$0.8 million, as compared to net income of $4.7 million for
the fourth quarter of FY06, and net loss of $2.7 million
for the third quarter of FY07.
The sequential, quarter to quarter improvements are
mostly attributed to higher revenues from aluminum case
cells, while the reduction in gross profit and net income
as compared to fourth quarter of FY06 is mostly due to a
significant increase in the purchase cost of raw materials,
especially lithium cobalt dioxide.
For fiscal 2007, BAK expects to report net revenues of
approximately $145.9 million, up $2.1 million or 1.4% from
$143.8 million for fiscal 2006; gross profit of
approximately $25.6 million, or 17.6% of revenues, down
35.4% from $39.6 million for fiscal 2006; and net income of
approximately $0.5 million, as compared to $20.2 million for
fiscal 2006.
The year to year reduction in gross profit and net
income is due to a significant increase in the purchase
cost of raw materials, especially lithium cobalt dioxide,
and significantly increased depreciation charges with the
completion of two new production lines, which is a major
and necessary part of China BAK's continuous efforts in
transitioning from the Chinese secondary market to the
international OEM market.
"While we saw modest overall revenue improvement,
margins continue to be impacted by high raw material,
depreciation and overhead costs. We are continuing the
strategy of increasing the application of alternative raw
materials and raising selling prices in our new products.
We have accumulatively made large capital investments in
our cylindrical battery cell production line and OEM
prismatic production line to attract new higher margin
projects while we're reducing production of some lower
margin products. We also expect a higher yield in
cylindrical and polymer battery cell manufacturing in the
upcoming quarters after hiring several outstanding
manufacturing engineers and management staff. We believe
the changes initiated in our operations over the last
several months have put us back on the right track, as
operating performance improved in the fourth quarter of
this year as compared to the third quarter," said
Xiangqian Li, China BAK's chief executive officer.
"Management believes these changes are sustainable and
further improvement can be achieved in our operations as we
move into 2008."
For more detailed management discussion of the results
for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year ended September
30, 2007, please attend China BAK's conference call to be
scheduled in early December 2007. The conference call dial
in and webcast information and further information
concerning BAK's financial results shall be announced as
soon as practicable.
About China BAK Battery Inc.
China BAK Battery, Inc. is one of the largest
manufacturers of lithium-based battery cells in the world,
as measured by production output. It produces battery
cells that are the principal component of rechargeable
batteries commonly used in cellular phones, notebook
computers, cordless power tools and portable consumer
electronics, such as digital media devices, portable media
players, portable audio players, portable gaming devices
and personal digital assistants (or PDAs). China BAK's 1.9
million square feet facilities are located in Shenzhen, PRC,
and have been recently expanded to produce new products.
China BAK is the largest manufacturer of lithium-ion
battery cells for China's cellular phone replacement
battery market. More information about China BAK (Nasdaq:
CBAK) is available at http://www.bak.com.cn .
Safe Harbor Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements,
which are subject to change. The forward-looking statements
are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All
"forward-looking statements" relating to the
business of China BAK Battery, Inc. and its subsidiary
companies, which can be identified by the use of
forward-looking terminology such as "believes,"
"expects" or similar expressions, involve known
and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause
actual results to differ. These factors include but are not
limited to: risks related to China BAK's business and risks
related to operating in China. Please refer to China BAK's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 2006, as well as China BAK's Quarterly
Reports on Form 10-Q for FY07, for specific details on risk
factors. Given these risks and uncertainties, you are
cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking
statements. The Company's actual results could differ
materially from those contained in the forward-looking
statements. The company undertakes no obligation to revise
or update its forward-looking statements in order to reflect
events or circumstances that may arise after the date of
this release.
For more information, please contact:
Company Contact:
Tracy Li
Tel: +86-755-8977-0093
Email: IR@bak.com.cn
2007'12.07.Fri
American Standard Companies Changes Name to Trane
November 28, 2007
- Trane Shares Start Trading Today as 'TT' on the New York
Stock Exchange
PISCATAWAY, N.J., Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ --
Trane makes its debut today as the new name for the
company previously known as American Standard Companies.
Shares of Trane will trade under the symbol "TT"
on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) -- the same shares
that traded under the symbol "ASD" when the
company was known as American Standard Companies.
Trane is a global leader in providing high quality,
energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC) systems, services and solutions to a broad range of
commercial and residential customers. The business employs
more than 29,000 people worldwide and generated sales of
$6.8 billion in 2006. Trane markets its HVAC systems,
services and solutions under two premium brands: Trane(R)
and American Standard(R).
"Today marks the successful completion of our
separation plan announced in February," said Chairman
and CEO Fred Poses. "Since then, we've spun off our
vehicle control systems business and sold our bath and
kitchen business. Our new name reflects our business focus
and our global leadership in providing integrated HVAC
systems, services and solutions."
Earlier this year, Trane was one of the first four
energy services companies asked to participate in the
Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI), a program launched by
former President Bill Clinton to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions in 40 of the world's largest cities. In
addition, Trane's CenTraVac(TM) chilled water system won
the "Best-of-the-Best" Award in 2007 from the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for
contributions to strategic ozone protection. During the
year, Trane also received numerous awards for residential
product design, innovation and customer service.
About Trane
Trane Inc. (NYSE: TT), previously named American
Standard Companies Inc., provides systems and services that
enhance the quality and comfort of the air in homes and
buildings around the world. The company offers customers a
broad range of energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air
conditioning (HVAC) systems; dehumidifying and air cleaning
products; service and parts support; advanced building
controls and financing solutions. Selling under both the
Trane(R) and American Standard(R) brand names, the
company's systems and services have leading positions in
premium commercial, residential, institutional and
industrial markets; a reputation for reliability, high
quality and product innovation; and a powerful distribution
network. In 2006 the business generated annual revenues of
approximately $6.8 billion with $4.9 billion coming from
equipment systems and $1.9 billion from services. Trane
has more than 29,000 employees and 29 production facilities
worldwide. For more information, visit these Web sites:
http://www.trane.com/ and
http://www.americanstandardair.com/.
For more information, please contact:
Trane
Media:
Skip Colcord
Tel: +1-732-980-3065
Email: hcolcord@trane.com
Shelly London
Tel: +1-732-980-6175
Email: slondon@trane.com
Investors:
Bruce Fisher
Tel: +1-732-980-6095
Email: bfisher@trane.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Japan & China dominate first MIPIM Asia Awards
November 28, 2007
28 - 30 November 2007, Convention and Exhibition Centre,
Hong Kong
HONG KONG, Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Property
projects based in Japan and China dominated the inaugural
MIPIM Asia Awards, designed to honour the most innovative
and outstanding buildings in Asia. Entries from the two
countries won in six of the seven competition categories,
with the Special Jury Award going to the Tokyo Midtown
Project. The MIPIM Asia Awards took place at the Hong Kong
Convention and Exhibition Centre on November 28, as part of
the second edition of MIPIM Asia.
Real estate projects in Japan won in three categories
-- Business Centres, Mixed-Use Buildings and Green
Buildings. China-based entries won the Shopping Centres,
Hotels & Tourism Resorts and Futura Projects
categories. The remaining category of Residential
Developments went to Singapore.
Over 100 projects from 15 different countries across
the Asia Pacific region were originally submitted to the
MIPIM Asia Awards. In September, the international jury
selected three finalists for each of the seven competition
categories.
"The jury was impressed by the large number of
high quality submissions from across the region and in all
categories. The selection of the nominations and winners
was therefore a difficult process. The quality of the final
projects is a testimony to the high standards in Asian real
estate today," commented Robert Lie, president of the
jury and Chairman of ING Real Estate Investment Management
Asia (Hong Kong).
The vibrancy of the real estate industry in the Asia
Pacific was reflected in the number of entrants. Out of
the participating countries, China submitted the largest
number of projects (29), followed by Singapore (13), Hong
Kong (12), India (8), The United Arab Emirates (8), Japan
(7), Australia (6), Thailand (4), South Korea (4) and
Vietnam (4). Other competition entries were received from
Macau, Indonesia, the Philippines, the Maldives and Sri
Lanka.
MIPIM ASIA AWARDS 2007 winners:
Business Centres:
Osaka Bar Association
Osaka, Japan
Architect: Nikken Sekkei Ltd
Developers: Hang Lung Properties Ltd.
Shopping Centres:
Elements -- Hong Kong S.A.R., China
Architect: Benoy Ltd & Aedas
Developers: MTR Co. Ltd.
Residential Developments:
The Berth by the Cove
Singapore
Architect: Axis Architects Planners
Developers: Ho Bee Group
Mixed-Use Buildings:
Tokyo Midtown Project
Tokyo, Japan
Architect: Nikken Sekkei Ltd.
Developers: Mitsui Fudosan Company Ltd.
Hotels and Tourism Resorts:
Banyan Tree Lijiang
Li Jiang, Yunnan Province, China
Architect: Architrave Design & Planning
Developers: Banyan Tree Holdings Ltd.
Green Buildings:
Research Institute for Humanity & Nature
Kyoto, Japan
Architect: Takashi Okamoto; Nikken Sekkei Ltd.
Developers: Tokyu Community, Ltd., and Nikken Sekkei
Ltd.
Futura Projects:
Dongton Eco-city
Shanghai, China
Architect: Arup
Developers: Shanghai Industrial Investment Co.
Special Jury Award
Tokyo Midtown Project
Tokyo, Japan
Architect: Nikken Sekkei Ltd.
Developers: Mitsui Fudosan Company Ltd.
Note to Editors
MIPIM ASIA(R) is a registered trademark of Reed MIDEM
-- all rights reserved.
Founded in 1963, Reed MIDEM is a leading organizer of
professional, international tradeshows. Reed MIDEM events
have established themselves as key dates in professional
diaries. The company hosts MIPTV featuring MILIA, MIPDOC,
MIPCOM, and MIPCOM JUNIOR for the television and digital
content industries, MIDEM for music professionals, AMAZIA
devoted to the creation and distribution of entertainment
content across all platforms, MIPIM, MIPIM Asia, MIPIM
HORIZONS and MAPIC for the property and retail real estate
sectors and GLOBAL ASSET for the asset management
industry.
Reed MIDEM is a division of Reed Exhibitions, the
world¡¦s leading organiser of exhibitions and conferences
delivering over 460 events in 34 countries and serving 52
industries worldwide. For further information about Reed
MIDEM visit: http://www.reedmidem.com and
http://www.mipimasia.com .
For more press information, please contact:
Joanne Kirk in Paris
Tel: +33-01-4190-4582
Email: joanna.kirk@reedmidem.com
Belinda Chan in Hong Kong
Tel: +852-2372-0090
Email: belinda@creativegp.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Alcatel-Lucent and Hong Kong Broadband Network introduce first carrier-class GPON in Hong Kong
November 28, 2007
HONG KONG, Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) and Hong Kong
Broadband Network Limited (HKBN), a wholly-owned subsidiary
of City Telecom (HK) Limited (HKEx: 1137 and Nasdaq: CTEL)
announced today the deployment of the first Gigabit Passive
Optical Network (GPON) in Hong Kong. The collaboration
contract also includes network maintenance.
Alcatel-Lucent¡¦s Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) solution will
enable HKBN to deliver advanced triple play services to its
subscribers and enlarge its FTTH network coverage in Hong
Kong. The new network is expected to be in service in
January 2008.
The demand for advanced multimedia and data services in
Hong Kong is expected to increase substantially in the
coming years, driven by services such as high definition TV
(HDTV) and enhanced multimedia applications. According to
the FTTH Councils of Asia-Pacific, Europe and North
America, Hong Kong is the world leader in percentage of
homes wired with broadband communications over direct fiber
optic connections, followed by South Korea and Japan. HKBN,
the first provider in Hong Kong to launch fiber-to-the-home
100Mbps and 1Gbps services in 2005, plans to increase its
coverage from 1.4 million to 2 million home passed within
three years.
"After an intensive trial of Alcatel-Lucent¡¦s
GPON solution, we are pleased with the maturity and
performance of the technology," said Paul Cheung,
Chief Executive Officer of HKBN. "By leveraging
Alcatel-Lucent¡¦s market-leading expertise in FTTH, we will
continue to deploy new and advanced service offerings,
providing seamless and premium connectivity services
catering to our customers¡¦ requirements."
"We are proud to partner with HKBN delivering the
first GPON network in Hong Kong," said Sean Dolan,
President of Alcatel-Lucent¡¦s activities for North East
Asia. "We are committed to the local market,
providing our best of breed solutions and global expertise,
helping Hong Kong to maintain its technology leadership - in
this case advance broadband deployment."
Under the terms of the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent will
deploy the 7342 Intelligent Services Access Manager
Fiber-to-the-Home (ISAM FTTU) solution. The system is
designed specifically for packet-based voice convergence
and triple play services and delivers maximum bandwidth and
QoS over a fiber access network.
For full press release, please refer to our home page
http://www.ctigroup.com.hk/en/ .
For enquiries, please contact:
Corporate Communications
Ms Jessie Cheng
Tel: +852-3145-4118
Email: chengcm@ctihk.com
2007'12.07.Fri
Famous American Hotel Chain CBVI & Lexington Collection by Vantage Open Their First Hotel in China
November 28, 2007
SHANGHAI, Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Today, let's
celebrate the opening of the first VANTAGE hotel in China
-- China's Best Value Inn (CBVI) North Bund hotel. This is
the successful first step for Vantage Group in the campaign
to start their expansion program in China. The group
already has signed 3 high-end Lexington Collection hotels
and 5 CBVI brand level hotels. There will be more than 15
Lexington Hotels and 20 CBVI level hotels in 2008.
The newly-opened CBVI North Bund hotel is located near
the Bund, near the crossroads of Nanjing road and North Si
Chuan Road, and next to the famous food street: Zha Pu Road
and Kun Shan Road. The hotel has 64 rooms including deluxe
rooms, superior rooms all with central A/C system, liquid
crystal TV sets, and free high-speed Internet. The hotel
has a restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, a
24-hour business center and 24-hour room service.
The CBVI North Bunds hotel is a new CBVI style hotel:
complete facilities with high standards of service,
"Value & Comfort." The hotel focuses on the
large emerging middle class with reasonable &
affordable rates. The high-speed Internet and business
center meets the needs of business travelers.
"Today, we are happy you could be here to
celebrate with us the opening of our first CBVI hotel in
China, this our the first step in China. We are very
concerned about the market in China. With the fast
development of the economy, China will be the biggest
potential market in the world. We believe our brand will
have a very bright future," said Mr. Martin Soran, CEO
of CBVI and Lexington Co, Ltd., at the ceremony for the
opening of the North Bund CBVI hotel.
Vantage Hospitality Group, Inc., parent company to
China's Best Value Inn, was founded in 1996 by six managing
partners who have more than 150 years of combined experience
in hotel ownership, management, operations, franchising, and
marketing. Vantage was the 12th largest hotel chain
worldwide in 2007. With its diverse portfolio of companies,
Vantage covers all the major facets of the industry and
offers its members comprehensive hospitality resources.
There are 8 brands including 4 America's Best Value Inn
(ABVI) brand and 4 Lexington Collection brands.
It launched Vantage hospitality group, Inc. nationally
in 1999, growing from 5 properties to more than 800
properties. It has been honored with two national chain
leadership awards, and was recognized as the fastest
growing chain in the country in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006,
with an over 500% overall system ROI in 2005 and 2006 for
Vantage Hospitality Group's members. Vantage Hospitality
Group has been rated one of INC. Magazine's top 500 growing
corporations. Vantage is the only hospitality company to
receive this prestigious recognition.
Vantage Hospitality Group is looking for development
opportunities in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and
Macao; China's Best Value Inn & Lexington Collection
Co., Ltd. are the company of choice for Vantage to offer
its products and services of the Group, starting from the
fall of 2006. With the support of the Vantage Group,
China's Best Value Inn & Lexington Collection Co., Ltd
will be the Vanguard of China's tourism industry, actively
promoting the development of tourism in China. CBVI has
already signed hotels to open the end of 2007 or early 2008
located in the cities of Shenyang, Shanghai, Wuhan, Ningbo,
and Beijing. By the end of 2008 we plan to have 40 hotels
under our brand, and 200 by the end of 2010.
In the Future, Vantage plans to look for different
kinds of partnership styles, and the partnerships will have
long-term hotel development goals, not just be a short-term
moneymaker. Furthermore, Vantage Group is concerned about
the full management style of the hotel to ensure brand
quality and reputation.
In the cooperation mode, Vantage will send professional
management teams, offering Technical, Sales & Marketing,
Training and Purchasing support including a PMS system at no
cost.
For more information, please contact:
China:
Jessica Wu
Room 2208, No. 738 DongFang Road
YUAN Mansion, Pudong Shanghai, 200122
Tel: +86-21-6875-0586
Fax: +86-21-6875-0456
Email: info@chinasbestvalueinn.cn
Web: http://www.lexingtoncollection.com
http://www.americasbestvalueinn.com
2007'12.07.Fri
'Positive Talks' Changing Attitudes on HIV
November 28, 2007
UN, Marie Stopes and the Private Sector Support People
Living with HIV to Speak Out About HIV and Stigma
BEIJING, Nov. 28 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- The United
Nations has hosted a ceremony to launch a joint project
that aims to empower and support the significant
involvement of women and men living with HIV (PLHIV) as
meaningful partners in China's multi-sector response to
AIDS.
(Logo:
http://www.xprn.com/xprn/sa/20061107113358-34.jpg )
A key activity of Maries Stopes International China
(MSIC), the "Positive Talks" project aims to
train and support a core group of 35 women and men living
with HIV and AIDS from around China to serve as effective
policy advocates and peer educators. They will give
"positive talks" in various HIV-related advocacy,
prevention, care and awareness activities initiated by
different organizations such as public and private sector
companies, health care centers, schools, NGOs and the
media.
"Positive Talks" is supported by the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Joint United
Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) through the UN Joint
Programme on AIDS in China (2007 ¨C 2010), and is
implemented by the China International Center for Economics
and Technology Exchange (CICETE).
"The `Positive Talks' Project not only builds up
the confidence of the trainers in their own capacities and
their relevant role in China's HIV response," said
Kang Hui, Positive Talks Project Manager, "but also
inspires the participants to accept their status and gives
them the opportunities and support to increase the
understanding of the general population about HIV and those
living with the virus."
Widespread stigma and shame affect prevention and
treatment efforts and are recognized to be major
contributors to the spread of the HIV epidemic. Because HIV
is often wrongly perceived as a disease exclusive to
marginalized groups (such as drug users, men who have sex
with men ¨C- MSM -- and sex workers) and judgmentally
viewed as being caused by "morally blameful"
behaviors, people are deterred from talking about HIV and
getting tested.
This attitude also makes people less likely to
recognize and acknowledge their risk of infection. As a
consequence, individuals who are positive are identified
too late and unknowingly become channels of HIV
transmission.
"There is a stronger need than ever to reach the
general public and `humanize' the face of the HIV epidemic
-- presenting it as a reality that "People living
with HIV have been shown to have a significant and lasting
impact on people's awareness of their vulnerability to the
disease, thereby changing social myths and misconceptions
about HIV and AIDS," said UNAIDS Country Director,
Bernhard Schwartlander.
This groundbreaking project is funded by the UK
Department for International Development (DFID), the Bill
& Melinda Gates Foundation and Stora Enso, a
Finland-based global forest products company.
UNDP fosters human development to empower women and men
to build better lives in China. As the UN's development
network, UNDP draws on a world of experience to assist
China in developing its own solutions to the country's
development challenges. Through partnerships and innoation,
UNDP works to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and
an equitable Xiao Kang society by reducing poverty,
strengthening the rule of law, promoting environmental
sustainability, and fighting HIV/AIDS.
http://www.undp.org.cn
For more information, please contact:
Kang Hui, Positive Talks Project Manager, MSIC
Tel: +86-10-8485-4988 x10
Email: chnpoz@hotmail.com
Edmund Settle, HIV/AIDS Programme Specialist, UNDP
Tel: +86-10-8532-0775
Email: edmund.settle@undp.org
広告
ブログ内検索
アーカイブ
カウンター