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Binance Announces Global Advisory Board

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Binance

A major step in the company’s efforts to support the sustainable development of blockchain technology

PARIS, France, September 22, 2022/APO Group/ — 

Binance (www.Binance.com), the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is pleased to announce the creation of its new Global Advisory Board (GAB), comprised of distinguished experts in public policy, government, finance, economics, and corporate governance.

The Global Advisory Board, chaired by former US Senator and Ambassador to China, Max Baucus, recently convened in Paris, France. The board’s purpose is to advise Binance on some of the most complex regulatory, political, and social issues the entire crypto industry faces as it grows and evolves at a fast pace.

“For the past five years, Binance has been at the forefront of pioneering the exciting new world of crypto, blockchain, and Web3,” said Binance founder and CEO Changpeng Zhao. “In that time, we’ve tackled complex issues no one even knew existed. We’ve maintained our focus throughout on delivering compliance solutions that protect the interests of crypto users, while keeping a brisk pace of socially-beneficial innovation. The GAB represents the next big step forward in our journey to share the benefits of modern finance and the blockchain with the entire world.”

“The blockchain and crypto industry can act as a true catalyst for growth and economic opportunities. For the cities that are willing to partner with companies like Binance in order to create progressive regulations and an effective Web3 environment, I expect it to enable a number of investments into the space. I look forward to working with a number of experts as part of Binance’s Global Advisory Board in order to collaborate,” said South Africa’s Leslie Maasdorp.

Prior to joining Binance’s Global Advisory Board, Leslie has served as the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the New Development Bank, Former MD & President for Southern Africa at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Former Vice Chairman of Barclays Capital and Former International Adviser to Goldman Sachs.

Binance is harnessing the GAB’s unrivaled collective experience and expertise to benefit the sustainable development of the industry as a whole, by weighing in on the toughest and most sensitive regulatory and compliance issues facing crypto, blockchain, and Web3.

“We always put our users first, and that’s served as a very effective North Star for us over the past five years of unprecedented, exciting growth,” Zhao said. “With the GAB, we’re supercharging our ability to manage regulatory complexity by tapping into the highest level of expertise available anywhere in the world. This collaboration between Binance and the leading experts of the GAB is a testament to our focus on compliance, transparency and ensuring a collaborative relationship with the world’s regulators as they develop sensible regulations worldwide.”

The GAB’s roster includes:

Max BacusUSAFormer U.S. Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China; Former U.S. Senator Montana; Former Chairman of Senate Committee on Finance
Ibukun AwosikaNigeriaFirst Female Chairman, First Bank of Nigeria; Founder, The Chair Centre group; Chairman, Nigerian Advisory Board, for Impact Investing and Convention on Business Integrity; Member G7 International Task Force for impact investing; Author of several books
HyungRin BangKoreaAdvisor of the Korea Presidential Committee; PR/Communications Advisor of Yoon Seuk-Yul’s 2022 Presidential Campaign; Former CEO, SoftForum Inc.; Former Executive Director, Hyundai; Former Executive Director, Samsung;
Bruno BezardFranceManaging Partner of Cathay Capital; Former Vice Minister of Finance; Former Economic Advisor to the French Prime Minister; Former head of the French Treasury
Leslie MaasdorpSouth AfricaVice President and Chief Financial Officer of the New Development Bank; Former MD & President for Southern Africa at Bank of America Merrill Lynch; Former Vice Chairman of Barclays Capital; Former International Adviser to Goldman Sachs.
Henrique de Campos Meirelles
Brazil
Former Minister of the Economy, Former President of the Central Bank of Brazil, Former Chair of J&F’s board of directors, Former Member of the Board of Directors of Azul Brazilian Airlines, Former President, Bank Boston; Former President of Global Banking, Fleetboston Financial; Former Board member, Raytheon Corporation, Bestfoods and Champion International. Former Member of the Council of Lloyd’s of London; Former Chairman of Lazard Americas.
Adalberto PalmaMexicoHonorary Board Member of The Aspen Institute Mexico; Former Senior Advisor at the Chief of Staff Office to the President of Mexico; Director of Business Development at BEworksMX Consulting; Former President of the CNBV; Founding Chairman of The Center for Excellency in Corporate Governance. Independent Director of the Institute for Savings Protection; President of Bankers Trust Mêxico, Colombia and Venezuela; Managing Director of Citibank Mexico.
David PlouffeUSABusiness, Non-Profit and Political strategist; Author, Member of Various Boards of Directors; Former Campaign Manager Senior Advisor to President Obama in the White House
Christin SchäferGermanyFounder and Managing Director of acs plus; Former Group Risk Operating Officer, Erste Group Bank; Former Global Head of Quantitative Solutions, Deutsche Bank, Member of the Data Ethics Commission, German Federal Government
Lord VaizeyUKMember of the House of Lords; Former Minister and Member of Parliament
David WrightEuropeChair, EUROFI; Former Secretary General, IOSCO, Former European Commission; Dep DG Financial markets, European Commission

GAB Quotes:

Max Baucus: “Of all the technologies with the potential to create positive disruption, the world of crypto, blockchain, and Web3 is among the most exciting and the most promising. That’s why it is a great pleasure to participate in setting up the Binance Global Advisory Board, and bringing the group’s unrivaled collective expertise to bear in solving complex problems with a socially positive outcome.”

Lord Ed Vaizey: “Blockchain and Web3 technologies promise to be foundational to the future of the internet and the financial system at large. The next few years will be vital in setting the tone for the future of this nascent industry around the world. Helping the Binance Global Advisory Board chart a path through these challenges is a privilege and I look forward to working more closely with the impressive group that Binance has brought together.”

David Wright: “Cryptocurrencies are increasingly challenging traditional finance. As they grow and the regulatory landscape evolves, the GAB will advise Binance how to define and shape the optimal global and regional development of future financial services, traditional and blockchain-enabled, and I look forward to working with distinguished GAB colleagues on these complex challenges.”

Bruno Bézard: “The cryptocurrency industry is at a crossroads as regulation begins to solidify globally. Binance has brought together a group that is as global as the industry it represents, and brings together some of the world’s leading experts across the financial and political worlds. It is an honor to be invited to join them.”

Christin Schäfer: “With Web3, and the underlying blockchain technologies, come profoundly new ways of interacting with the internet and dealing with data. The Global Advisory Board that Binance has built brings together experts that can help guide the company and industry at large through managing the risks and challenges ahead.”

Ibukun Awosika (Nigeria): “The transparency and accountability with which Binance seeks to deliver services to its clients is impressive. As a company of the future, Binance must continue to evolve, build and find solutions in real time. I am proud to play a role as a member of its Global advisory board and to be a part of truly transforming the web3 economy.”

Leslie Maasdorp (South Africa): “The blockchain and crypto industry can act as a true catalyst for growth and economic opportunities. For the cities that are willing to partner with companies like Binance in order to create progressive regulations and an effective Web3 environment, I expect it to enable a number of investments into the space. I look forward to working with a number of experts as part of Binance’s Global Advisory Board in order to collaborate.”

Henrique de Campos Meirelles (Brazil): “Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies are going to set the tone of the financial services of the future, with great benefits to the economies, financial inclusion and the quality of service that people have access to worldwide. The Binance Global Advisory Board, being composed of leading experts in many areas, will have a relevant role in helping this nascent and growing industry establish itself as regulations across the world evolve, so that we work to build a safe and sustainable ecosystem for all.”

Adalberto Palma Gómez (Mexico): “Cryptocurrencies and the whole blockchain ecosystem will increasingly impact people’s lives and benefit society with more democratic and accessible services to all. As the market grows and adoption scales, the Binance Global Advisory Board will help not only the platform but also all the industry evolve so that its future is sustainable and secure to societies. It is a privilege to work with this group and be part of this transforming moment.”

HyungRin Bang (Korea): “With the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry entering into new phases globally, it is inspiring to be part of the Binance Global Advisory Board, where esteemed experts from different fields join to discuss the industry’s sustainability. As an advocate of information and technology, Korea has substantially grown its domestic cryptocurrency and blockchain industry. I wish to add value to the GAB with insights I learned witnessing the growth of technology throughout my career.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Binance.

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HELI Aims for #1 Position in Middle East and Africa with New Forklift Models and Strategic Investments

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HELI

Company Expands Regional Footprint, Hosts 40 Regional Partners at Exclusive Distributors’ Conference in Dubai

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

HELI (www.HELIChina.net), China’s leading forklift manufacturer and a global player in the material handling industry, has unveiled three new forklift models at the opening of its UAE distributor Hala’s state-of-the-art showroom and workshop in Dubai Industrial City.

This launch marks another significant step in HELI’s ongoing expansion in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, as the company continues its drive to become the leading forklift brand across the region.

HELI’s mission, Lifting the Future, is driven by a vision to become a global leader, and a singular aim to be ranked among the world’s Top 5 forklift manufacturers. Founded in 1958, HELI has consistently delivered innovative, intelligent logistics solutions, establishing itself as a global first-class integrator of industrial vehicles and intelligent logistics systems. With a people-oriented approach and a commitment to repaying society through high-quality products, HELI’s brand proposition—Empower the World—reflects the company’s dedication to empowering industries worldwide.

Ranked among the top ten forklift manufacturers globally since 2006, HELI’s streamlined strategies in capital, industrial, and innovation chains have fueled rapid growth. Today, HELI’s products are sold in over 150 countries, and in the MEA region, the company has already secured the leading position in 15 African countries, with an expanding presence in the Middle East. With continued investment in new product launches and strategic partnerships, HELI is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of becoming the leading forklift brand across the region.

The new HELI G Series 2.0-ton lithium battery forklift, specifically engineered for the beverage industry, was also introduced at the event. Building on the proven reliability and advanced technology of HELI’s G Series, this model incorporates several innovative features tailored to the unique demands of beverage logistics. These include a flexible adjustable cab height for enhanced operator visibility and safety, an intelligent steering system that prevents sharp turns for smoother operations, and an active safety protection system that decelerates or brakes when personnel approach danger zones, reducing workplace risks. Designed with beverage industry needs in mind, it includes features like single/double pallet forks and a 360-degree vision optimization system for better maneuverability.

The G3 Series forklifts, available in 2-3.5 Ton and 5-10 Ton models, offer key shared advantages that enhance efficiency, safety, and performance. Both models are energy-efficient, with the 2-3.5 Ton version reducing consumption by 15% and the 5-10 Ton featuring a low-noise system. They incorporate advanced safety features, such as pedestrian detection, AI-powered collision warnings, and an optional reversing camera, ensuring a safer work environment. Designed for high performance and reliability, both models require minimal maintenance and are built to handle demanding industrial tasks. The 2-3.5 Ton version offers an enhanced load capacity up to 4.5 meters, while the 5-10 Ton excels in climbing performance. Additionally, ergonomic features like reduced steering effort and low-noise operation improve operator comfort and productivity.

With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals

Together, the G3 Series forklifts deliver a reliable, cost-effective solution for businesses seeking safety, efficiency, and durability in their material handling equipment.

“These new models reflect HELI’s commitment to addressing the growing demand for sustainable and efficient material handling solutions in the region. With the increasing focus on electrification, we are providing customers with clean energy alternatives that align with global sustainability goals and empowering our partners to achieve #1 status in their respective markets,” said Guan Lei, General Manager of HELI Middle East FZCO.

During the showroom opening, Mathew Abraham, Managing Director of Hala, HELI’s UAE distributor, emphasized the potential of the partnership, noting, “With HELI’s world-class technology and our deep understanding of the regional market, we are well-positioned to offer comprehensive solutions, ensuring the highest standards of after-sales support and sustainability.”

HELI’s growth in the region is underscored by its ongoing investment in infrastructure. The company is currently leasing between 6,000 and 8,000 square meters of space in the Middle East to expand its service capabilities and provide quicker, localized support. These efforts are aligned with HELI’s strategic goals and reinforce its position as a key player in the material handling and logistics sectors.

At a closed-door distributors conference held this week, 40 partners from across the region gathered to discuss HELI’s product innovations and regional growth strategies. The conference highlighted the company’s vision for the future and its strong partnerships with regional distributors. The theme of the conference, “Together We Thrive, Limits We Defy,” reflected the shared ambition to work harder with determination, pushing past boundaries and striving for excellence.

Recent industry data from the World Industrial Truck Statistics (WITS) shows HELI’s growing presence in the UAE, where it is now the second-largest forklift brand. This growth, coupled with a rising shift toward electrification, further positions HELI as a leader in the MEA region. The company’s success in Africa, where it holds the #1 position in 15 countries, demonstrates the strength of its offering and its ability to meet local market needs.

Chen Xianyou, Vice General Manager of Anhui HELI Co., Ltd, emphasized, “Our continued investment in the MEA region is a testament to our long-term vision. We are focused on achieving sustainable growth, backed by our strong after-sales service network, and building lasting relationships with our regional partners.”

With its leadership position in China for 33 consecutive years and a growing footprint in the Middle East and Africa, HELI is poised to become a globally recognized brand in the material handling industry.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of HELI.

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West Africa Deal Summit 2024 calls for regional collaboration to unlock catalytic capital, rewards outstanding organisations

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West Africa Deal Summit

The summit closed with an invitation to the Africa Impact Summit 2025 scheduled for June 11-12, 2025, in Accra, Ghana

LAGOS, Nigeria, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The 2024 West Africa Deal Summit (WADS) (www.WestAfricaDealSummit.org) concluded on Wednesday, with a call for more regional collaboration to mobilise catalytic capital to address West Africa’s unique socioeconomic challenges. The two-day event attended by over 400 investors, entrepreneurs, government representatives, and thought leaders, focused on building innovative financing mechanisms. 

The summit themed “Actions to Deepen Catalytic Capital in West Africa” organised by the Impact Investors Foundation, Impact Investing Ghana alongside impact investing taskforces in Burkina Faso, Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire highlighted several other priority actions in a joint statement issued at the event’s close. 

One of the highlights of the summit was the launch of two transformative reports – Catalytic Capital in Nigeria (https://apo-opa.co/3ZiaMGL) and Context Mapping and Market Landscape for Catalytic Capital in Nigeria (https://apo-opa.co/3CCKEO7),  that identified organisations deploying catalytic capital in Nigeria; spotlighted the types of investments they make and their impact; and mapped the spectrum of capital used in Nigeria. 

Catalytic capital, strong governance, regional collaboration, and innovative financing mechanisms are essential for leveraging West Africa’s potential

At the end of the two-day summit, the Impact Investors Foundation in partnership with LEAP Africa also celebrated trailblazing organisations for their meaningful contributions to environmental and social causes. Alitheia Capital Management bagged the Impact Investor of the Year 2024, FAMASI Limited was conferred with the Social Enterprise of the Year 2024 while Centre for Legal Support and Inmates Rehabilitation (CELSIR) bagged the Innocent Chukwuma Award for Social Impact, 2024.  In the Social Innovators Programme Award categories by LEAP Africa, FarmSpeak Technology and Power Wheels Electricals received the Outstanding Fellow Award; the Seyi Bickersteth Award for Financial Accountability 2024 recipient was Read To Learn Foundation while Natal Cares bagged the Innocent Chukwuma Award for Youth and Gender Empowerment 2024. 

The IIF and Nigeria Office for Philanthropy and Impact Investing (NPO) also jointly awarded the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu with the Policy Champion for Philanthropy and Impact Investing award for his role in championing Nigeria’s first-ever legislation on impact investing and philanthropy. 

Etemore Glover, CEO of the Impact Investors Foundation, highlighted the collective commitment of summit participants to accelerating efforts in building national and regional ecosystems that drive resilience and sustainable growth. 

“We, the impact investing community, commit to building national and regional ecosystems that foster sustainable growth and resilience. Catalytic capital, strong governance, regional collaboration, and innovative financing mechanisms are essential for leveraging West Africa’s potential,” she said. 

The joint statement was issued by Mirabelle Moreaux, Board Vice Chair, Impact Investing Ghana (IIGh); Etemore Glover, CEO, Impact Investors Foundation; Amma Lartey, CEO, Impact Investing Ghana; Yacouba Ouedraogo (PhD), Member, Burkina Faso Impact Investing Taskforce and Co-founder, Africa Impact Investing Partnerships Centre and Bowel Diop, Member, Senegal Impact Investing Taskforce. 

Key initiatives outlined in the joint statement include strengthening regional collaboration and Knowledge Exchange; Mobilising Local Capital; Encouraging Innovation and Collaboration for Systemic Change; Strengthening Good Governance and Capacity-Building for MSMEs; and promoting Data-Driven Design and Execution. The summit closed with an invitation to the Africa Impact Summit 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/3OleFV3) scheduled for June 11-12, 2025, in Accra, Ghana. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of West Africa Deal Summit.

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How 5G Transforms Life: A Foreigner’s Journey Through East China’s Digital Revolution

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World Internet Conference Summit

HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 November 2024 – As the 2024 World Internet Conference Summit opened in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province on November 20, showcasing China’s latest achievements in artificial intelligence and digital technology, a foreigner who has called China home for 15 years witnessed firsthand how one particular technology – 5G – is revolutionizing everyday life in this eastern province.

Yegor Shyshov, who has lived through China’s digital transformation, found himself amazed by the practical applications of 5G technology beyond mere phone services. From smart manufacturing to autonomous vehicles and remote healthcare, his journey through Zhejiang province revealed how the technology showcased at Wuzhen is already improving lives in neighboring cities.

“These applications are not just exhibition pieces – they’re already changing how people work and live,” said Shyshov, as he toured various 5G-enabled facilities across the province.

In Zhejiang’s Yiwu city, blankets are being weaved in bulk by Truelove, one of China’s leading blanket makers, under the custody of 5G-empowered AI system.

“The inspection for broken threads used to be the toughest job,” Zhang Xiaomao, a chief engineer at Truelove’s smart manufacturing sector, told Shyshov. “In cooperation with China Mobile, we rolled out the 5G+AI visual quality monitoring system, after 18 months of testing.”

The system is able to monitor the threads while they are being weaved, Zhang said, adding that it could stop a warp knitting machine when a broken thread is detected, ensuring accurate quality control.

“There are 24 cameras installed on a warp knitting machine, in short, we have installed ‘electronic eyes’ on our machine, which can realize real-time monitoring of 8,000 threads,” he said.

Upon detection of broken threads, the system automatically halts production, reducing defects by 90% while processing 40 million images daily. The efficiency gains are remarkable: one worker can now manage 12 machines, triple the previous capacity of four.

While the 5G buildout brought revolution in industries, it can be better felt in people’s daily life, as phone service has long become a modern necessity. However, 5G is ready to make big changes in areas beyond that little plate of screen.

Some self-driving mini shuttle buses are currently on its trial operation around the Jinyi Lake in Jinyi New District, Jinhua city.

Shyshov went to take one of the buses — the 5.8-meter-long vehicle has eight passenger seats and can travel at a speed of 20 km/h. It is installed with five LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) and five cameras, which enable it to give way to pedestrians if detected, and bring itself to halt upon reaching designated stops.

While the vehicle drives itself, a safety staff sits at the driver’s cab to ensure safe operations. These vehicles are currently on trial service for now, providing transport between seven stops along a 6.5-kilometer-long loop within a limited area

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