เดือน: สิงหาคม 2024

Results Highlights:- Revenue and net profit reached US$78.9 million and US$18.8 million, respectively.- APAC market revenue grew significantly by 31.0%, driven by both organic growth and contributions from SJ Medicare and PT Revass, the South Korean and Indonesian distributors acquired in Q4 2023.- Total sales volume of proprietary products remained at 717,000 units.- In 1H2024, the Group made extensive efforts to integrate eucatech AG, a German company acquired last year, into its operations and reorganize its production lines, and expects eucatech AG to resume production and shipment in Q3.- The Group has been actively registering products of eucatech AG in various countries and regions, and eucaLimus, a coronary drug eluting stent, has already received registration approval in Malaysia.- For the clinical studies of TricValve, patient enrollment has commenced in 13 hospitals in the PRC. In Japan, the Group is working closely with the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (“PMDA”) and the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) to prepare for the clinical trial and registration process.- In May 2024, the Group engaged the main contractor for its largest R&D and manufacturing facility in Hangzhou, which is expected to begin operation in 2027, adding an annual production capacity of 2.4 million product units upon commencement of production.- The Group’s financial position remained strong, as evidenced by the cash and bank balances of US$246.7 million as of June 30, 2024.- The Group expects to maintain a stable dividend policy, demonstrating its confidence in future prospects.HONG KONG, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - OrbusNeich Medical Group Holdings Limited (“OrbusNeich” or the “Group”; stock code: 6929), a major global medical device manufacturer specializing in interventional devices for percutaneous coronary intervention (“PCI”) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (“PTA”) procedures, today announced its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2024 (the “Reporting Period”), with revenue and profit for the period attributable to owners of the Company maintained at US$78.9 million and US$18.8 million respectively despite various market challenges.Mr. David Chien, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of OrbusNeich, said, “The global economy has been highly volatile in recent years, as a result of factors such as geopolitical tensions and major central banks shifting their monetary policies. Albeit the challenging external environment, we were able to seize the opportunity to implement a series of measures to enhance operational efficiency and integrate the businesses of SJ Medicare, PT Revass and eucatech AG acquired last year into our Group. We believe the investments made in the first half year are crucial to supporting our future sustainable growth.”For the Reporting Period, the Group’s revenue decreased slightly by 3.1% to US$78.9 million, mainly attributable to decline in sales volume in the US due to integration of Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. (“CSI”) into Abbott Laboratories (“Abbott”), and in the PRC market due to on-going impact of anti-corruption campaign, as well as the Group’s termination of distribution of certain third-party products, despite the significant sales growth recorded in APAC, as well as the modest revenue growth in Japan in terms of Japanese Yen. Excluding the impact of the foreign exchange fluctuations, total revenue would have recorded a slight year-on-year increase of 0.6%. Gross profit amounted to US$55.8 million while gross profit margin stood at 70.7%.Despite the decline in revenue and the short-term increase in expenses incurred by the Group’s series of measures to enhance operational efficiency and integrate the businesses acquired in the previous year, the Group maintained a healthy level of net profit for the first half of 2024. It is worth noting that, excluding the operating expenses of the newly acquired businesses, the three core operating expenses, namely selling and distribution expenses, general and administrative expenses and research and development expenses, for the first half of 2024, remained flat against the same period last year. As of June 30, 2024, the Group maintained a strong financial position with cash and bank balances of approximately US$246.7 million, laying a solid foundation to support its growth objective.Robust Balloon Sales in APAC and EMEAThe Group’s proprietary balloon products continued to gain traction worldwide. In the first half of 2024, revenue from the APAC market saw organic growth of a marked 8.6% year-on-year, thanks to strong balloon sales growth in markets such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam and Singapore. Particularly, the latest generation of scoring balloon, Scoreflex TRIO, recorded a rapid rise in sales since it was launched in Malaysia in early 2024. Together with the additional contribution of US$4.3 million from the SJ Medicare and PT Revass, distributors acquired in South Korea and Indonesia respectively in Q4 2023, the revenue generated from APAC amounted to a total of US$24.0 million, representing a significant increase of 31.0% year-on-year.In addition, mainly attributable to the increase in sales of the Group’s proprietary balloon products in direct sales markets such as Germany, France and Spain, as well as distributor sales markets including Czech Republic and Slovakia, revenue generated from EMEA slightly increased by 1.3% to US$19.2 million, even being partly offset by the termination of distribution agreement with CSI for atherectomy products.During the first half of 2024, Scoreflex TRIO continued to drive revenue generated from Japan, the Group’s largest single-country market, in terms of Japanese Yen, achieving an 8.1% increase year-on-year.Integrating Newly Acquired Business to Drive Future GrowthFollowing the acquisition of eucatech AG in November 2023, extensive efforts were made to integrate eucatech AG into the Group’s operation and reorganize production lines. The Group has been actively registering eucatech AG’s four products, namely eucaLimus, Support C, Resistant, and VITUS, in various countries and regions to avail those products via the Group’s own sales network to physicians and patients in different markets. In the first half of 2024, eucaLimus was granted registration approval in Malaysia, one of the Group’s direct sales markets. Registration applications for eucatech AG’s products have also been submitted to relevant regulatory bodies in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Switzerland, Italy and Saudi Arabia and are pending approval. The Group also promoted eucatech AG’s products at major conferences including EuroPCR, as well as educated distributors about these offerings so that sales could be ramped up smoothly once the products become available.In April 2024, the Group supported eucatech AG’s on-site Medical Device Directive (“MDD”) and Medical Device Regulation (“MDR”) surveillance audit, as such, was able to extend the CE Mark expiration dates for their 4 products under the MDD framework. All these efforts are expected to see eucatech AG resume production and shipment in the third quarter of the year.Relentless Drive to Translate Innovations into Thriving Product LinesAs of June 30, 2024, OrbusNeich had an aggregate of over 50 approved products. The Group has maintained a steadfast commitment to translating its R&D efforts into commercially successful products. To date, the Group achieved major milestones, including:- Obtaining NMPA approval for Teleport Neuro, FDA approval for Teleport XT and JADE PLUS 14/18/35 OTW, CE Mark for Sapphire ULTRA and Sapphire NC ULTRA;- Submission of registration applications to the NMPA for its Guiding Catheter;- Completion of the clinical trial patient enrollment for Scoreflex TRIO in the PRC, with the NMPA application expected to be submitted in Q3 2024;- Preparation for the Sapphire 3 clinical trial in the US, with enrollment scheduled to begin in Q3 2024.Alongside these regulatory and commercialization efforts, the Group continued to invest in new pipeline products, such as the Corepass modular microcatheter, support catheter and the JADE Plus. Registration applications for these innovative offerings are planned for submission to various authorities in 2024.Meanwhile, the joint venture OrbusNeich P&F made significant efforts to advance the clinical studies of TricValve in two major Asia Pacific markets. Patient enrollment has commenced in the PRC for its clinical trial, and the clinical trial and registration process in Japan is being prepared in close collaboration with the PMDA and the FDA.Boosting Production Capacity through Rigorous Quality Processes and Operational ExcellenceThe Group has always prioritized product quality, which is ensured by a robust quality management system. During the Reporting Period, various sites successfully passed audits conducted by various regulatory and notifying bodies. Furthermore, the Group remains committed to enhancing operational efficiency and reducing production costs by continually optimizing manufacturing processes, work-in-progress inventory levels, and employee productivity. To meet future production needs, the Group will construct its largest R&D and manufacturing facility in Hangzhou, the PRC, for which it engaged the main contractor in May 2024 and which is expected to begin operation in 2027, adding an annual production capacity of 2.4 million units of products upon commencement of production.Mr. Chien concluded: “Looking ahead, as new sales strategies are being executed in the PRC and the US markets, we expect these key geographies will regain growth momentum in second half of the year. Meanwhile, OrbusNeich has maintained active efforts to expand our market presence. On the product front, we are leveraging our comprehensive sales network and brand recognition to market innovative endovascular intervention products to enhance the solutions we provide to the physicians. New products from eucatech AG which is expected to resume production soon will also contribute to improved profitability. We are also actively identifying M&A opportunities that align with our strategic priorities and position us for sustainable growth. Despite the first-half headwinds, we remain optimistic about restoring growth momentum soon and expect to maintain a stable dividend policy for shareholders based on our robust financial position.”- End -About OrbusNeich Medical Group Holdings LimitedOrbusNeich is a major global medical device manufacturer specializing in interventional devices for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) procedures. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China, OrbusNeich sells its products in more than 70 countries and regions worldwide. It is also actively expanding into neuro vascular intervention and structural heart disease. As of June 30, 2024, OrbusNeich has more than 230 granted patents and published patent applications worldwide. Its in-house R&D team has more than two decades of product development experience and has developed world-leading proprietary technologies.For more information, please visit the Group’s official website: https://orbusneich.com/. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

BRISBANE, AUS, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CISO FSI ANZ 2024 invites cybersecurity professionals in the Financial Services Industry to join this free virtual event designed to inspire and share intelligence. The online gathering will cover everything from cyber strategy, risk management, governance, program and incident management, leadership, to enabling business growth.CISO FSI ANZ offers a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge and find ways to avoid cyber threats in the FSI industry. Benchmark your strategies with peers and learn how to get buy-in and collaboration in your projects across the board.Key topics include:Strategies to advance your company’s cyber security maturity modelsHow to align cyber risk management with the company's goalsComplying with APRA regulations in Australia and MBIE in New ZealandThe impacts of the privacy act reform in information securitySuccessful practices to mitigate the increase of third-party risksBridging the talent gap by investing in culture, education and trainingNavigating the “AI high” by leveraging its benefits while minimising its risksCISO FSI ANZ is an essential online event for those looking to advance their knowledge and network within the cybersecurity community. Join us on 12 September 2024 at 10 AM AEDT or 12 PM NZT.It’s free! Register now: https://bit.ly/4dpyOUYVisit website: https://ciso-fsi-anz.coriniumintelligence.com/About Corinium IntelligenceCorinium Intelligence is a global leader in providing conferences, events, and content to the information and technology industries. With a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation, Corinium Intelligence brings together industry leaders to share insights, best practices, and strategies for success.Media Contact:Claudia Peixoto, Marketing Managerclaudia.peixoto@coriniumgroup.com Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

CANBERA, AUSTRALIA, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CISO Canberra invites cyber security professionals to explore the critical role of public sector cyber security in protecting the public and driving transformative leadership strategies for delivering the 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy.The tech demo exhibition will showcase cutting-edge services and innovations driving change in the cybersecurity landscape. InfoSec leaders will share their strategic insights in no-nonsense talks, providing valuable substance over empty rhetoric.Key themes include:STRENGTH IN UNITY: Building robust shields against cyber threats by navigating the 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy to be the most secured nation.AWARENESS, EMPOWERMENT, & COORDINATION: Maturing cyber security culture through collective responsibility and collaborative efforts for enhanced resilience.PROACTIVE GRC MANAGEMENT: Integrating Zero Trust and evaluating risks in supply chains, data and AI to empower decision making at the pace of innovation.MODERNISING THREAT DETECTION & RESPONSE: Embracing cutting-edge technologies and strategies to advance security, integrity and resilience capabilities.CISO Canberra 2024 is an essential event for those looking to advance their knowledge and network within the cybersecurity community. Join us at the Canberra Rex Hotel on 14 November 2024 for an event that promises to inspire and empower.Use the code ACNNEWS20 for 20% off the ticket price.Register here: https://bit.ly/4dqzPfbVisit website: https://ciso-bris.coriniumintelligence.com/ About Corinium IntelligenceCorinium Intelligence is a global leader in providing conferences, events, and content to the information and technology industries. With a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation, Corinium Intelligence brings together industry leaders to share insights, best practices, and strategies for success.Media Contact:Claudia Peixoto, Marketing Managerclaudia.peixoto@coriniumgroup.com Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SHENZHEN, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - On August 15, 2024, China Medical System Holdings Limited (“CMS” or the “Company”) released its 2024 interim results announcement, with a steady increase in overall revenue and profit for the period compared to the second half (2H) of 2023. In the first half (1H) of 2024, the Company recorded a turnover of RMB3,611.1 million, representing a decrease of 21.7% compared with 1H 2023, an increase of 6.1% compared with 2H 2023. In the case that all medicines were directly sold by the Company, the turnover was RMB4,287.5 million, representing a decrease of 22.6% compared with 1H 2023, an increase of 8.9% compared with 2H 2023; Among which, the total revenue of non-National VBP exclusive products and innovative products was RMB2,404.7 million, accounting for 56.1% of CMS’s revenue in the case that all medicines were directly sold by the Company. Profit for the period was RMB903.4 million, representing a decrease of 52.8% compared with 1H 2023, a substantial increase of 92.8% compared with 2H 2023.The year 2024, not only marks the first year of the commercialization of CMS’s innovative products, but also a crucial point for the release of National Volume Based Procurement (“National VBP”) impact on its financial performance. Deanxit entered the seventh batch of National VBP in November 2022, Plendil and Ursofalk entered the eighth batch of National VBP in July 2023, and none of the three original drugs were selected, which had a negative impact on the Company’s business performance. In 1H 2024, the Company’s overall performance showed a growth trend compared with 2H 2023, indicating that CMS has basically digested the impact of National VBP and successfully entered the "New Product Era" where non-national VBP exclusive products and innovative products drive its growth.With the approval for marketing of LUMEBLUE (Methylthioninium Chloride Enteric-coated Sustained-release Tablets) in June and METOJECT (Methotrexate Injection)’s additional indication of active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults in July this year, CMS's innovative drug portfolio in the commercialization stage has expanded into 5 products (including 6 indications); simultaneously with a rich and differentiated innovative pipeline reserve. Gathering the power of innovation and riding the momentum of development, CMS is comprehensively shaping new drivers for development with a healthier product structure, further opening up a new cycle of quality development.The "Collaborative and In-house" dual-engine R&D model drives the simultaneous improvement in quantity and quality of the pipeline, accelerating the transformation of innovative biotechnologyA profound innovative drug R&D pipeline is an important driving force for the long-term development of CMS. The Company adheres to the purpose of innovation for meeting the unmet clinical needs and solving the difficulties of patient medication, and promotes innovation development through a two-wheel drive of “Collaborative R&D and In-house R&D”, continuously deploying FIC (first-in-class) and BIC (best-in-class) innovative products, and enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of research and clinical development to achieve a rapid transformation of scientific outcomes into social and commercial values.As of now, CMS's innovative product portfolio approved for marketing in China has been expanded into 5 products (including 6 indications), among which, 4 innovative drugs (VALTOCO, ILUMETRI, METOJECT - psoriasis indication, VELPHORO) have been included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) and entered large-scale clinical application; also, CMS newly added LUMEBLUE and METOJECT (RA), for being approved for marketing in China recently.CMS has also steadily advanced the clinical development of innovative products. Currently, Desidustat Tablets is under NDA review in China; Also, a total of about 10 projects have been prepared/launched for their registrational clinical trials, mainly randomized controlled trials (RCT).At the same time, the Company had continued to strengthen basic research and independent innovation capabilities, and successfully promoted more than 10 in-house R&D projects, among which, three innovative drugs (VEGFA/ANG2 Tetravalent Bispecific Antibody, Highly Selective TYK2 Inhibitor CMS-D001 Tablets, and GnRH Receptor Antagonist CMS-D002 Capsules) have entered the clinical development stage.In addition, the Company’s innovative pipeline has continued to expand. CMS Skinhealth collaborated with Incyte once again, and has obtained exclusive license to research, develop, register and commercialize povorcitinib, a selective oral small-molecule JAK1 inhibitor, in countries/territories including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan Region and 11 Southeast Asian countries. This further enriched the product portfolio of CMS Skinhealth in the treatment of vitiligo and other immune-mediated dermatology diseases.Subsequently, CMS will continue to produce innovative products with higher efficiency and more controllable costs every year, accelerating the release of innovative value and embracing quality and sustainable performance growth through a healthy product structure dominated by non-National VBP exclusive products and innovative products.Successful commercialization system releases the clinical value of innovative products in an efficient and collaborative mannerAfter 32 years of deep cultivation in specialty therapeutical fields, successful commercialization capability is one of CMS’s core competitiveness. By continuously reinforcing and integrating its commercialization platform, it has achieved in-depth development of its three major business segments including cardio-cerebrovascular/gastroenterology, dermatology, and ophthalmology, and expanded its boundaries in related fields. Additionally, the Company established a highly qualified, professional promotion team with strong execution, as well as extensive channel and resource coverage, which has laid a solid foundation for the rapid market entry and brand building of its innovative products.Four innovative drugs of CMS have entered large-scale clinical applications, covering various disease fields such as central nervous system, dermatology, nephrology, and gastroenterology, and developed synergistically with the existing marketed products in promotion team and channels. Meanwhile, leveraging on the opportunity of being included in the NRDL, CMS is advancing hospital development, brand building, real world studies and medically-driven academic promotion. CMS is improving patients’ accessibility to innovative drugs with the help of patient aid and disease knowledge popularization programs, promoting the release of products’ clinical value.The Dermatology and Medical Aesthetic Business "CMS Skinhealth" regards dermatology prescription products as its core, and extends to light medical aesthetic products and dermatology-grade skincare products, continuously improving the construction of a full life-cycle skin-health management platform covering dermatological treatment, skincare, and medical aesthetics through internal development and external collaboration. In terms of clinical development of dermatology prescription drugs, CMS has completed the Pivotal Real World Study for ruxolibinib cream in vitiligo, and is advancing the registration application process in Mainland China. At the same time, it has continuously complemented the regenerative light medical aesthetic portfolio, among which the China’s medical device registration application of the Poly-L-lactic Acid Microparticle Filler Injection has been accepted by the NMPA during the Reporting Period; and the Company has newly obtained exclusive licenses of three regenerative light medical aesthetic products (Polycaprolactone Microsphere Gel for Injection, Calcium Hydroxylapatite Microsphere Gel for Injection, and Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Implant), which are currently under the registrational clinical trial stage in China.The results announcement shows that, as of the end of June, the promotion network of CMS has covered over 55,000 hospitals and medical institutions, and approximately 280 thousand retail pharmacies in China.Leveraging the accumulated advantages in cardio-cerebrovascular, gastroenterology, central nervous system, nephrology, ophthalmology, dermatology and other specialty therapeutical fields, CMS steadily releases the scale effect of its specialty businesses, and builds high competition barriers, creating broad commercial potential for its innovative products and exclusive products.Drawing up the internationalization layout to gather momentum for the incremental marketIntegrating the advantageous resources of the Company, its Southeast Asia business “Rxilient Health”, shares and expands the successful experience of CMS gained from the China market, as well as global quality products and innovative technological resources, into the Southeast Asia market. This accelerates the improvement of the platform integrating “R&D, manufacture, and commercialization” of the Southeast Asia business, empowering Chinese and global pharmaceutical companies to implement the “overseas development” strategy, and also opening up a larger space for incremental development opportunities for CMS.As of the end of June, Rxilient Health has established a competitive product portfolio with more than ten differentiated products, covering therapeutic areas such as oncology, central nervous system, autoimmune, dermatology, and ophthalmology, etc. Rxilient Health is accelerating the relevant work on the market registration processes in Southeast Asian countries for innovative pipeline products, such as ruxolitinib cream, Methylthioninium Chloride Enteric-coated Sustained-release Tablets, and Diazepam Nasal Spray, etc. Furthermore, Rxilient Health collaborated with Junshi Biosciences to promote the registration process of toripalimab (anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody) in multiple countries in Southeast Asia, aiming to benefit local cancer patients as soon as possible.In December last year, the Company and Rxilient Health joined hands with Pharmaron and other partners to complete the purchase of the Singapore manufacturing plant. This year, all relevant parties have been orderly advancing a series of work for the Singapore manufacturing plant, including equipment testing, quality verification, and production quality system certification, etc., so as to accelerate the CDMO business development, and to optimize the Company’s overseas supply chain and manufacturing capabilities. The business layout will further facilitate more inter-industry cooperation between CMS and global partners in the future, thus jointly building a win-win medical innovation ecosystem with mutual benefits.ConclusionSince its establishment in 1992, CMS has followed the development pattern of the industry and has promoted three significant strategic transformations successfully with a forward-looking vision. The Company started as an agent of imported original drugs, gradually developed to control the rights of original/exclusive products, and then achieved a comprehensive innovative transformation. Each step of the transformation is in sync with the industry development trends. CMS steadily aims towards the ultimate goal, and constantly builds up its strength and resilience to persist through the industry development cycle. With the gradual release of the impact of national VBP on its financial performance, CMS has been transforming into a brand-new company. While embracing the innovation achievements in each stage, CMS is fully prepared for a sustainable and healthier development in the future.About CMSCMS is a platform company linking pharmaceutical innovation and commercialization with strong product lifecycle management capability, dedicated to providing competitive products and services to meet unmet medical needs.CMS focuses on the global first-in-class (FIC) and best-in-class (BIC) innovative products, and efficiently promotes the clinical research, development and commercialization of innovative products, enabling the continuous transformation of scientific research into clinical practices to benefit patients.CMS deeply engages in several specialty therapeutic fields, and has developed proven commercialization capabilities, extensive networks and expert resources, resulting in leading academic and market positions for its major marketed products. CMS continues to promote the in-depth development of its advantageous specialty fields and expand business boundaries. While strengthening the competitiveness of the cardio-cerebrovascular/gastroenterology business, CMS independently operates its dermatology and medical aesthetics business, and ophthalmology business, aiming to gain leading positions in specialty therapeutic fields, whilst enhancing the scale and efficiency. At the same time, CMS has expanded its business territory to the Southeast Asian market, striving to become a "bridgehead" for global pharmaceutical companies to enter the Southeast Asian market, further escorting the sustainable and healthy development of the Group.CMS Disclaimer and Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release is not intended to promote any products to you and is not for advertising purposes. This press release does not recommend any drugs, medical devices and/or indications. If you want to know more about the diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases, please follow the opinions or guidance of your doctor or other medical and health professionals. Any treatment-related decisions made by healthcare professionals should be based on the patient’s specific circumstances and in accordance with the drug package insert.This press release which has been prepared by CMS does not constitute any offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities, and shall not form the basis for or be relied on in connection with any contract or binding commitment whatsoever. This press release has been prepared by CMS based on information and data which it considers reliable, but CMS makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, whatsoever, and no reliance shall be placed on, the truth, accuracy, completeness, fairness and reasonableness of the contents of this press release. Certain matters discussed in this press release may contain statements regarding the Group’s market opportunity and business prospects that are individually and collectively forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Any forward-looking statements and projections made by third parties included in this press release are not adopted by the Group and the Company is not responsible for such third-party statements and projections.Media ContactChina Medical System Holdings Ltd.CMS Investor RelationsEmail: ir@cms.net.cnWebsite: https://web.cms.net.cn/en/home/Source: China Medical System Holdings Ltd. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS- In the first half of the year, the Group recorded the following operating results:  – Revenue rose by 2.3% to RMB14,345 million; gross profit margin rose by 1.6 percentage points to 50.4%  – Net operating cash inflow increased by 40.6% to RMB2,730 million  – Net profit attributable to equity holders of the Company was RMB1,952 million with net profit margin of 13.6%, and EBITDA margin was 24.0%- Working capital remained at a healthy level:  – The percentage of gross average working capital to revenue was 7.1%  – The cash conversion cycle was 31 days, representing an increase of 1 day as compared to the same period last year- The Board resolved to declare an interim dividend of RMB37.75 cents per ordinary share of the Company issued or to be issued upon conversion of convertible securities for the six months ended 30 June 2024.OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS- The retail sell-through for the overall platform decreased by low-single-digit, including online and offline channels- Channel inventory increased by mid-single-digit comparing to the same period last year. The inventory turnover and ageing structure remained at a healthy level- Offline channel new product sell-through decreased by mid-single-digitHONG KONG, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Li Ning Company Limited (stock codes: 2331 (HKD counter) and 82331 (RMB counter)) announces today its 2024 interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2024.Financial ResultsIn the first half of 2024, China’s economy demonstrated an orderly recovery, with favorable national policies continuously injecting vitality into the market. Against the backdrop of the rising public health awareness, numerous international and national events have spurred public’s enthusiasm for sports. Currently, overall consumer confidence still has room for recovery, and the market is in a gradual and positive adjustment phase.Leveraging the brand’s professional sports background, the Group maximizes its insights into the sports industry, understanding of sports categories, and technological innovation capabilities, concentrating on five core categories of running, basketball, fitness, badminton, and sports casual during the Reporting Period. Through continuous research and development (“R&D”) investment and technological innovation, the Group consistently enhances product capabilities, optimizes consumer experience, and ensures sustainable development in the long run while expanding the Group’s business.In the first half of 2024, the Group’s overall performance remained stable with pragmatic growth. During the Reporting Period, revenue amounted to RMB14,345 million, representing an increase of 2.3% as compared to the corresponding period of 2023 (2023 H1: RMB14,019 million). Gross profit increased by 5.8% from RMB 6,839 million in the same period of 2023 to RMB 7,236 million, and the overall gross profit margin was 50.4% (2023 H1:48.8%), the gross profit margin increased by 1.6 percentage points as compared to the corresponding period of last year. Basic earnings per share was RMB75.80 cents (2023 H1: RMB80.63 cents). The Board resolved to declare an interim dividend of RMB37.75 cents (2023 H1: RMB36.20 cents) per ordinary share of the Company issued or to be issued upon conversion of convertible securities for the six months ended 30 June 2024. The interim dividend payout ratio is 50%.In terms of cash flow management, the Group's net cash generated from operating activities during the Reporting Period amounted to RMB2,730 million (2023 H1: RMB1,942 million). As at 30 June 2024, cash and cash equivalents (including cash at banks and in hand, and fixed term deposits with original maturity of no more than three months) amounted to RMB6,147 million, representing a net increase of RMB703 million, as compared with the position as at 31 December 2023. Adding back the amount recorded as fixed-term deposits held at banks, cash balance amounted to RMB17,558 million, which represented a net decrease of RMB417 million as compared to 31 December 2023. During the period, revenue increased year-on-year while the efficiency of settlement remained stable, which, in conjunction with the reasonable purchase and payment plan, contributed to the year-on-year increase in net cash generated from operating activities. The Group will continue to place extra emphasis on its cash flow management to ensure stable development of the Group in the long run.Operational SummaryDuring the Reporting Period, the Group adhered to the core strategy of “Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels” focusing on seven major business transformation tracks and continuously strengthening its sports genes to establish a clear professional sports brand positioning. Meanwhile, the Group was efficiently empowered in supply chain management, logistics platform, channel expansion and store upgrading, jointly building a solid foundation for the overall sales of the Group.In terms of technological innovation, in May 2024, the Group successfully held a technology conference with the theme of “In My Name, Tech LI-NING” , which demonstrated that the Group has built two key pillars of product development and innovation consisting of technology R&D and sports science research through long-term accumulation of technological innovation. At the conference, the Group presented its six innovative technologies of “Carbon Core” , “Dual-Stage Assist Curves”, “Super Jiang” , “GCU”, “Super BOOM” and “Extreme Boom Fiber” , and also unveiled three new innovations for the first time: the running shoes of “Shadow 3”, the premium racing shoes of “Dragonflight” and dual-vent nanotechnology for rainstorm protection.In terms of professional products and marketing, the Group continued to focus on the five core categories of running, basketball, badminton, fitness and sports casual, and continued to make efforts in the innovation in sports technology. At the same time, the Group also actively integrated with sports fashion culture, launched sports products with both technology and fashion attributes and continuously enhanced the core competitiveness of products. In addition, the Group actively deployed universal marketing to enhance consumers’ awareness of the Group’s products, continuously enhance brand influence and expand its consumer base.In the midst of a great year for sports, the Group launched a campaign theme “In My Name” , to encourage everyone to engage in sports activities and create their own highlight moments. Through delivering the brand proposition and spirit and telling stories of the athletes from the national gold medal team, top athletes in various categories and sports KOLs, as well as overall demonstrating Li Ning’s technological strength, launching theme series products and creating atmosphere for themes at stores, the Group reinforces the professional brand image of LI-NING, realizes the whole chain from brand proposition to product experience, and deeply connects the brand with each consumer.In terms of supply chain management, the Group constructed an all-round and high-efficiency supply chain ecosystem. It not only deeply explored and expanded high-quality supplier resources for high-end sports and outdoor products to form a strong supplier matrix, but also flexibly responded to market changes with a flexible supply strategy as the core.In terms of logistics management, the Group adopted refined logistics plan management, customized strategies based on the characteristics of the business divisions, and optimized the process of goods warehousing and delivery. Meanwhile, the logistics informationization platform empowered distributors to share information in real time, improved the efficiency of store distribution, and further improved the quality of logistics services.In terms of channel expansion and image upgrading, the Group actively optimized its channel layout, consolidated and expanded its competitive advantage in the high-end market by closing low-efficiency stores and strengthening the renovation and expansion of premium stores. Meanwhile, the active development of emerging markets, the new upgrading of the 9th generation stores, and the successful establishment of premium outlets further enhanced the brand image and market influence. In order to create an immersive experience of key events, 4,238 stores introduced key visual display designs featuring “In My Name” themes and core sports resources in the first half of the year, further enhancing consumers’ visual experience and brand awareness.As of 30 June 2024, the number of conventional stores, flagship stores, China LI-NING stores, LI-NING 1990 stores, factory outlets and brand stores under LI-NING brand (including LI-NING Core Brand and LI-NING YOUNG) amounted to 7,677, representing a net increase of 9 Point-of-sale (“POS”) as compared to 31 December 2023. The number of distributors was 44 (including sales channels of China LI-NING stores), representing a net decrease of 2 as compared to 31 December 2023, demonstrating the Group’s precision and efficiency in channel layout.In terms of retail operation, in the first half of the year, the Group deepened the innovation and practice of the single-store operating model to effectively promote the comprehensive implementation of retail operation standards. The store management efficiency has been significantly improved through the comprehensive promotion of its retail end sales planning system and the implementation of the system in core stores.In terms of new retail business, the Group strengthened community operations and content creation through digital transformation to achieve efficient conversion of private traffic, effectively improving sales and conversion efficiency. In addition, the Group actively explored diversified business models, including attracting traffic through social platforms such as Douyin and online business cooperation with core channels, constantly injecting new momentum into store sales, increasing the proportion of out-of-store sales in stores, and further enhancing the operating efficiency of stores.In respect of the e-commerce operation, the e-commerce of Li Ning continued to focus on breakthroughs in professional functional products, especially achieving rapid growth in the field of running shoes, while professional basketball shoe products also consolidated its market leading position. In addition, in terms of online exclusive IP, the Group has successfully created a number of IP that have gained volume and reputation in the industry. During the period, the Group achieved synergistic growth of e-commerce business and retail operation through effective integration and innovative practices across online and offline channels, driving a significant increase in sales performance and further strengthening of market share.In terms of kidswear business, LI-NING YOUNG comprehensively streamlined the youth product matrix, clarified the core competitiveness of clothing and accessories, and improved the footwear product matrix. For marketing, LI-NING YOUNG consolidated its marketing resources and actively explored omni-channel marketing and community operation. By actively cooperating with basketball star Wade to further increase the brand influence. LI-NING YOUNG also actively actively carried out various member community activities and launched new celebrity athlete in-store opening activities to continuously drive store traffic. As at 30 June 2024, the total number of LI-NING YOUNG POS in China amounted to 1,438, representing a net increase of 33 POS since the end of the previous quarter and a net increase of 10 POS since the beginning of this year. The Group will continue to intensely develop its LI-NING YOUNG business, take a product focused approach to upgrade core product technology and design, advance the exploration of market demands and product categorization and strengthen brand promotion, so as to develop LI-NING YOUNG into a leading professional sportswear brand for kids in China.OutlookThe Group will continue to practice its core strategy of “Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels”, persistently strengthen its product capabilities and integrate its operational resources to propel the Group towards stable and enduring growth by leveraging the organizational capability as an efficient corporation:– Develop the fundamental business with stability. The Group will continue to amplify the market influence of the LI-NING brand, focusing on the development of its five core categories including running, basketball, fitness, badminton and sports casual. Through investment in research, development and innovation, the Group will achieve continuous upgrading of its product matrix to meet the growing consumer demand for high-quality and personalized sports equipment, thereby reinforcing and expanding the Group’s market leading position in core areas.– Optimize and upgrade the product structure. The Group will further upgrade its diversified product matrix under the single-brand strategy, aligning with the evolving market trends and consumer preferences. By fully leveraging the complementary functions of “China LI-NING” and “LI-NING 1990” in the sports casual sector, and expanding multiple dressing scenarios, the Group will enhance the competitiveness of its brands in diverse scenarios.– Look to the future and seize opportunities to make a breakthrough. The Group will actively explore breakthroughs and take the lead in entering new tracks in sports consumption. By tapping into the huge potential of the women’s, outdoor and youth markets, formulating targeted marketing strategies and launching products that meet the needs of the target groups, the Group aims to make breakthroughs in these new areas.– Optimize market expansion strategy. To achieve comprehensive market coverage, the Group will optimize the allocation of resources to existing high-level markets to improve market efficiency. Concurrently, by actively exploring emerging markets and formulating strategies for overseas markets, the Group strives to achieve significant breakthroughs in overseas markets while keeping a steady and sustainable momentum.Mr. Li Ning, Executive Chairman and Joint CEO of the Group, concluded, “The country's series of in-depth market reform policies will steadily advance, providing the Group with a fair and more vibrant market environment, and opening up broader growth space. The Group will adhere to its established development strategy, rely on the professional sports genes of its brands and continue to launch high-quality sporting products for the public. At the same time, the Group will continue to cultivate the sports market in China, and ride the wave of the Olympics, upholding the spirit of ‘Anything is Possible’, to propel the Chinese sports industry onto the international stage.”- END -About the GroupLi Ning Company Limited is one of the leading sports brand companies in China, mainly operating professional and leisure footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories under the LI-NING brand. Headquartered in Beijing, the Group has brand marketing, research and development, design, manufacturing, distribution and retail capabilities. It has established an extensive retail distribution network and supply chain management system in China. The Group is committed to be the most prominent, stylish, world-leading sports brand from China.In addition to its core LI-NING brand, the Group also manufactures, develops, markets, distributes, sells various sports products which are selfowned by or licensed to the Group, including Double Happiness (table tennis), AIGLE (outdoor sports), Danskin (fashionable fitness products for dance and yoga) and Kason (badminton), which are operated through joint venture/associate with third parties of the Group. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

MANILA, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Darwinbox, a global leader in providing end-to-end Human Resources Management Systems (HRMS), has significantly transformed the operations of Security Bank Corporation, one of the largest private domestic universal banks in the Philippines and its subsidiaries.This comes as Darwinbox continues to enhance the HR landscape in the Philippines by helping companies optimize their human resources (HR) and improve overall operational efficiency.Security Bank EVP and Chief People Officer, Nerissa Berba, said that Darwinbox, a new-age, enterprise-ready Human Capital Management (HCM) platform, optimized the bank's processes, reduced manual tasks, and enhanced efficiency with streamlined workflows.Security Bank has already observed significant enhancements in its HR processes thanks to Darwinbox. To date, it has automated close to 90 per cent of HR processes, leading to a 67 per cent increase in HR operational efficiency within the first year, which exceeded the initial projection of 30 per cent. Consequently, this has allowed for a 30 per cent improvement in report generation speed and a 75 per cent reduction in the time taken for performance administration ensuring full compliance with policies.Berba further said that Darwinbox met all the bank’s HCM requirements. First, the entire employee lifecycle, from hire-to-retire, can be managed within Darwinbox, allowing the bank to have one system for all its employees’ needs. The Bank has implemented most of the Darwinbox modules, ensuring a consistent experience across the majority of the organization and HR processes.Additionally, the simplicity and user-friendliness of the Darwinbox interface, along with its deep functionality and intuitive mobile app, add significant value to the Bank’s operations. The no-code backend of the highly configurable platform empowers its HR team to tailor processes to the organization’s needs without external consultants.“[Darwinbox] is truly an empowering platform for an enterprise that is customer-first and people-empowered,” Berba said.Security Bank currently provides banking services across the Philippines through a dedicated workforce of nearly 9,000, who deliver the brand’s promise of ‘BetterBanking’.“Our commitment to a future-ready organization hinged on a compelling employee value proposition and a transformative work culture,” Berba said.Meanwhile, Darwinbox, founded in Asia and currently catering to over 950 enterprises worldwide, is actively expanding its presence in the Philippines.The company plans to engage various sectors, utilizing its advanced HR technology to address the diverse needs of organizations in the region. This expansion is in line with Darwinbox's goal to provide businesses with comprehensive and intuitive HR solutions, specifically designed for the unique challenges and opportunities within the Philippine market.Media Contact:Shruti Parmarshruti@bloomingdalepr.comBloomingdale Public Relations Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SAN DIEGO, CA, Aug 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) has signed a contract for the purchase of two SeaGuardian® Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), scheduled for delivery in 2025. This follows JCG's ongoing Company-Owned, Contractor-Operated agreement with GA-ASI for operating SeaGuardian, which began in April 2022."Since JCG started operating SeaGuardians, they have been used for various JCG missions, including supporting search and rescue and disaster response, specifically during the 7.6 magnitude earthquake early this year near the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture and maritime surveillance during the 2023 G-7 Summit in Hiroshima, and the system has performed efficiently and effectively," said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue.SeaGuardian is a medium-altitude, long-endurance RPA system that can fly for 24 hours or more, depending on the configuration.GA-ASI has strengthened its Maritime Wide Area Surveillance (MWAS) for Japan with Optix+, which gathers information from the SeaGuardian sensors, as well as other data sources, displaying the full picture of surveillance information for its operator. This functionality makes it easy to task and direct its Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) information in real time. GA-ASI's Optix+ software suite rapidly correlates and exploits collected data into an easily shared common operational picture. Having multi-source correlated data enables automatic detection of anomalous behaviors over waters.About GA-ASIGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.Avenger, Lynx, Predator, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.Contact InformationGA-ASI Media Relationsasi-mediarelations@ga-asi.comSOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.