Greenpeace – Power company ‘vampires’ bleed households dry to fund 1.4 billion dollar shareholder payout

August 27, 2025

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is labelling the big four power companies ‘vampires’, for an expected record payout of $1.4 billion to their shareholders. Mercury, Contact and Genesis have already announced an increase to their shareholder payouts in their annual results. The final gentailer, Meridian, is expected to confirm its increased shareholder payouts today and bring the total to $1.4 bn.

Stats NZ confirmed electricity prices jumped 4.9% in the June quarter, the steepest rise in over a decade, with prices increasing 10.4% in the year ended June. Consumer NZ found 20% of people have had difficulty paying their power bill in the past year – up from 18% last year.

“Families and businesses are being slammed by record high power bills, all so that the big four power companies can siphon off an expected $1.4 billion for their shareholders,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa campaigner Gen Toop

“This is corporate blood-sucking at its most brutal”.

“Instead of re-investing their revenue into building more clean, cheap renewables that would bring power bills down, these corporate vampires are bleeding households and the economy dry to fund their record shareholder payout. And the Government is just letting them do it.”

This year Contact Energy increased its total payout to $384 million, Mercury paid $202 million despite its profits collapsing to just $1m, and Genesis Energy handed out $157 million, even as it hiked household bills by 7.6% and corporate bills by 10.6%.

MIL OSI

New Business Investor Visa to support growth

LiveNews Publisher

August 27, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is modernising visa settings to attract experienced businesspeople to help grow New Zealand’s future.
“The Business Investor Visa (BIV) will provide a pathway to residence for business migrants who are ready to invest in, operate and grow established businesses here,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says.
“This new visa will bring overseas investment to maintain and create jobs, grow incomes, and breathe new life into existing businesses across the country.”
The new Business Investor Visa, which opens for applications in November 2025, offers two investment options:
• A $1 million investment in an existing business, with a three-year work-to-residence pathway.
• A $2 million investment in an existing business, with a 12-month fast-track to residence pathway.
“We are introducing a more targeted pathway for experienced businesspeople with capital to invest and the hands-on experience and skills needed to run a successful business. It has clearer settings that are easier for applicants to understand and for Immigration New Zealand to process, and it’s designed to deliver real economic benefits.
“The Business Investor Visa forms part of our broader refresh of business visa settings, alongside our improved Active Investor Plus visa.
The introduction of the Business Investor Visa sees the retirement of the Entrepreneur Category. It had low application volumes, high decline rates, and didn’t deliver strong economic impacts.
“Work is also underway on a visa pathway for startup-entrepreneurs with scalable, innovative business ideas, designed to complement existing settings and complete the suite.
“Our Government is focused on smart, flexible and nuanced immigration solutions to help stimulate the New Zealand economy. These changes will help bring brighter days ahead for all Kiwis,” Ms Stanford says.

MIL OSI

Consumer NZ – Rising cost of insurance prompts call for action on affordability and climate risks

LiveNews Publisher

August 27, 2025

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ releases a sobering report that highlights how house insurance is becoming increasingly out of reach for New Zealanders.

Consumer NZ’s report reveals that house insurance costs have risen by a staggering 916% since 2000, according to Stats NZ. Consumer calls for urgent action to prevent insurance becoming inaccessible for New Zealanders.

The consumer watchdog is calling on central government to take the lead and work with local government and insurers on a national solution to ensure insurance remains available and affordable. Consumer wants to see the development of a climate adaptation framework, increased oversight of the insurance industry and increased consumer protections.

“Insurance is getting harder to access and the need for it will only grow,” says Rebecca Styles, Consumer investigative team leader and author of the report ‘Will you be able to get home Insurance by 2035?’

“If we don’t act now, it’s entirely possible that many New Zealanders won’t be able to get insurance at all by 2035,” says Styles.

A crisis of cost and access

Among those without cover, more have cancelled or not renewed their house insurance because of cost. Up from 7% in 2022 to 17% in 2025.

“Insurance now ranks as one of New Zealanders’ top four financial concerns, behind housing, food and household debt,” says Styles.

“Our research shows people are dropping cover or being priced out entirely, and this will only get worse without serious intervention.”

The report includes major concerns with how the market is working, noting:

low trust in insurers, with dissatisfaction in claims handling and poor communication

a lack of transparency in risk-based pricing, leaving homeowners unclear about what they’re paying for

limited ability to shop around, especially in high-risk areas where quotes are hard to get

insurers’ profits rebounding, with trans-Tasman companies appearing to be charging New Zealanders more than Australians for equivalent cover.

Consumer is calling for action on five fronts

1. An effective government-led national climate adaptation framework

This framework should identify homes at risk and outline mitigation or retreat options. Nearly three-quarters of New Zealanders agree such a plan is urgently needed.

2. Greater oversight of the insurance industry

The FMA should investigate whether risk-based insurance pricing is being applied fairly.

The Commerce Commission should carry out a market study into competition and consumer choice in the house insurance sector.

3. Improved transparency and claims standards

Insurers should clearly show how risk affects pricing and explain policy and price changes when policies are renewed.

There should be set time frames for settling claims, with consequences for unreasonable delays.

4. Stronger consumer tools and innovation

Improve access to online quotes, comparison tools and risk data for homeowners.

Insurers should incentivise resilience, for example, by rewarding homeowners who take steps to reduce flood risks around their homes.

5. A stronger national safety net

The government should ensure the Natural Hazards Commission is future fit to serve communities facing the challenges of climate change.

“If insurance becomes a luxury only available to a privileged few, the impacts on communities, our economy and society will be severe. We need a plan, and we need to start implementing that plan now.”

The Brian Gaynor Initiatives – Business Writing and Journalism Excellence Award made it possible for Consumer’s investigative team leader Rebecca Styles to pursue this topic.

Read the Full Report: https://consumernz.cmail20.com/t/i-l-firudkl-ijjdkdttjk-j/

About Consumer

Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

MIL OSI

Advocacy – New Zealand challenged to vote for Israel’s suspension in United Nations – PSNA

LiveNews Publisher

August 27, 2025

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa is challenging the New Zealand government to support the move by Türkiye to vote to suspend Israeli membership of the United Nations.

Türkiye Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has told the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Riyadh that Israel should be suspended from the crucial meeting of the General Assembly next month, for its ‘genocidal aggression.’

PSNA Co-chair, John Minto, says New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters will have to take a stand on this issue.

“Cabinet should give him clear instructions to vote against Israeli war crimes and support Palestinian rights.”

“Suspension of Israel will have a lot of backing from many countries horrified with the starvation and carnage in Gaza, and they want to do something effective, instead of just recognising Palestine as a state.

“Even if the US vetoes such a move in the Security Council, there is a precedent going back to 1974 when South Africa was suspended from the General Assembly because it practiced apartheid. The General Assembly suspended a member then, and New Zealand should back such a move now.”

Minto says Israel’s original condition in 1948 for joining the UN was that it allowed the 750,000 Palestinians it had expelled from Palestine to create Israel to return home.

“Israel won’t even talk about its obligations to let Palestinians return, and certainly never had any intention of allowing them to go home. Israel should pay a price for that, along with punishment for its genocide.”

Minto says the escalation of the Israeli assault on Gaza calls for immediate international action and not even wait until the General Assembly debate last next month.

“The Israeli ambassador in Wellington should be told to leave right now, because his government is openly committing war crimes.”

“We’ve just seen a famine declared in Gaza City. Aid is totally insufficient and deliberately so.”

“Israel has called up its military reservists for the major assault it’s conducting on Gaza City to drive nearly a million of its inhabitants out. Israel’s latest dumping ground of choice is South Sudan, even though its government says it doesn’t want to have expelled Palestinians turn up there.”

“And we’ve just had the news that Israel has once again killed journalists, who work for international news agencies, such as Reuters, Al Jazeera and NBC.”

“Netanyahu says it was a mistake. Who believes that?”

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

NZ-AU: VIMG Advances Lancelin South as a Model for Sustainable Coastal Development

MIL OSI

August 27, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Lancelin South is setting a new standard for sustainable coastal living, with each project stage selling out quickly. Guided by renewable energy goals and resilience-based design, VIMG’s flagship development shows how large-scale communities can grow while mitigating climate risks and safeguarding long-term coastal lifestyles.

Photo Courtesy of VIMG

PERTH, Wash., Aug. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — VIMG is advancing one of Western Australia’s most significant new master-planned communities, Lancelin South, positioned as a secure and sustainable response to ongoing coastal erosion challenges in the region.

Located just under 100 kilometres north of Perth, Lancelin South spans over 11,000 hectares, including more than 8,700 hectares of development reserve land and 1,775 hectares allocated for holiday development. The project holds approvals for 4,000 large-scale residential lots, with future plans for tens of thousands more, alongside parks, solar infrastructure, walkable streets, and community facilities.

Unlike many coastal towns grappling with erosion and rising sea levels, Lancelin South is located on elevated land, well inland from erosion-affected zones. Coastal hazard mapping and elevation data confirm that the development is excluded from all State Government erosion and inundation risk areas, even under worst-case climate scenarios.

This strategic inland positioning offers confidence to future residents and investors, ensuring that while they enjoy the benefits of living near the coast, they remain protected from the direct impacts of shoreline changes and environmental degradation. This provides future residents with long-term security while preserving access to a coastal lifestyle.

“Lancelin South represents a proactive approach to development in Western Australia’s coastal regions,” said Martin Haddad, VIMG’s Marketing Director. “By planning inland and above sea level, we are delivering a community that combines lifestyle, affordability, and resilience, without the risks faced by other coastal towns.”

The development also incorporates sustainability as a core focus, with plans for the community to eventually operate on 100% renewable energy, positioning it as one of Australia’s first entirely green-powered towns. This commitment to sustainability is embedded in every stage of planning, from energy use to community infrastructure, and reflects a growing shift in regional development priorities toward cleaner, long-term solutions. Each released stage of the project has sold out, reflecting strong demand from both local and interstate buyers seeking secure coastal living.

Lancelin itself has experienced erosion-related challenges, with infrastructure loss and costly shoreline repairs highlighted in recent council reports. Lancelin South offers an alternative: a community strategically positioned to avoid these risks while supporting long-term growth and investment.

With its size, renewable energy ambitions, and erosion-resilient location, Lancelin South is being recognised as a model for how coastal towns can grow sustainably while avoiding environmental vulnerability.

About VIMG

Founded in 2009, VIMG is an independent Australian development firm with a diversified portfolio across residential, commercial, industrial, and energy projects. The company is focused on delivering sustainable, large-scale developments with long-term community and environmental resilience at their core. VIMG’s flagship project, Lancelin South, reflects its commitment to combining quality design, sustainability, and future-focused planning.

Contact Information

Martin Haddad
Marketing Director
VIMG
martin.haddad@vimg.com.au
https://vimg.com.au/

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/157e54be-7e73-47a5-aa65-188c326c953d

– Published by The MIL Network

Arrests and seizures made as Police disrupt methamphetamine supply set for the Hutt Valley community

LiveNews Publisher

August 27, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have seized firearms, cash, and drugs – as well as pipe bomb substances and casings – in an operation in Wellington District this week.

Operation Trunk has successfully disrupted a significant supply of methamphetamine believed to be intended for the Hutt Valley community.

The three-month investigation, led by the National Organised Crime Group with support from Wellington District staff and other specialist groups, commenced termination on 13 August, following a series of warrants and arrests over the past few weeks.

Detective Inspector Darrin Thomson says that the operation targeted the importation and supply of methamphetamine across the Hutt Valley area.

“Thorough information gathering, followed by quality analysis, allowed Police to undertake a series of search warrants at a commercial and residential property, and has successfully led to the arrest of two people,” he says.

A 44-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man have been charged with a variety of offences including possession of methamphetamine for supply and possession of ammunition.

The man has also been charged with importing methamphetamine and possession of a firearm.

Both are remanded in custody. The man is set to reappear in Hutt Valley District Court on 4 September and the woman on 20 November.

Police are continuing to examine a number of items located during the searches, which could result in further charges.

Items seized include:
–             Four firearms
–             3D printed firearm parts
–             A credit card skimmer
–             Approximately $300,000 cash
–             A money counter
–             Two kilograms of methamphetamine

The Police Asset Recovery Unit also seized two vehicles valued at more than $100,000.

Detective Inspector Thomson says the drug seizure equates to 100,000 doses and social harm of more than $2 million dollars.

“Of real concern is the discovery of three kilograms of substances and casings capable of being transformed into pipe bombs. This is highly concerning to Police, and we continue to investigate the source of the substances.

“I’d like to commend the Police staff involved in this investigation. NZ Police is committed to keeping its communities safe and holding to account those responsible for distributing class A drugs, and I think this outcome really reflects that.

“The mix of methamphetamine and firearms is a lethal cocktail, so I am pleased that Police continue to dismantle this cluster of offending,” he says.

If you have any information about those who may be involved in the importation or supply of harmful and illicit drugs, please contact us via 105 either online or over the phone.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

As the matter is before the Court, Police are not able to comment further at this time.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI

VAC and Torngat Metals Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Rare Earth Supply Chain

MIL OSI

August 27, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HANAU, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 26 August 2025 – VACUUMSCHMELZE (VAC), a global leader in the production of rare earth permanent magnets and Torngat Metals, a Quebec-based rare earths development company, have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pursue an offtake agreement for Torngat Metals to supply VAC with long-term security of fully traceable and responsibly produced separated rare earth oxides.

The MOU was signed in Berlin today by Yves Leduc, CEO of Torngat Metals, and Erik Eschen, CEO of VAC, in the presence of Germany’s Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Katherina Reiche and Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson. This strategic move underscores Canada and Germany’s bilateral collaboration in the area of critical minerals. Both countries are seeking to address the global heavy rare earths crisis while establishing a permanent magnet supply chain independent from China.

By joining forces with VAC, Torngat Metals is reinforcing its position as a reliable partner within the permanent magnet supply chain. Once in operation, the company’s Strange Lake project will be uniquely positioned to ensure long-term supply security for the full suite of light and heavy rare earth oxides needed for permanent magnets.

“As the sole Western producer of sintered rare earth permanent magnets, VAC is at the forefront of securing a diverse and resilient supply chain for critical raw materials. The company is expanding our global capacities and moving upstream into strip casting and metal making, strengthening every stage of production. Ensuring reliable access to terbium (Tb) and dysprosium (Dy) – elements essential to high-performance magnets is the final step, and one that we are achieving through our strategic partnership with Torngat. This commitment is essential to reinforce VAC’s strategic position and bolster the industrial base. In doing so also, we can enhance the national security of our allied nations by ensuring continuous availability of technology critical to our collective defense.” said Erik Eschen, CEO of VAC.

“This MOU highlights our progress – not only in advancing project development, but also in forging the partnerships needed to build a resilient and diversified supply chain for rare earth permanent magnets,” said Yves Leduc, CEO of Torngat Metals. “These critical minerals are central to advanced clean energy technologies, and we look forward to working with VAC to play a leading role in driving the transition.”

“The partnership between Torngat Metals and VAC marks a significant step forward in Canada’s efforts to build a secure and sustainable supply chain for rare earth elements. By advancing responsible development at Strange Lake and forging international collaboration with a global leader like VAC, Torngat is helping to position Canada as a key contributor to the permanent magnet supply chain, and an energy and critical mineral superpower. This agreement reflects our shared commitment with Germany to reduce reliance on single-source supply chains and strengthen the resilience of critical mineral access worldwide,” said Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

Hashtag: #VAC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

NZ-AU: IperionX Receives $12.5M U.S. Government Funding to Accelerate Expansion of U.S. Titanium Production

MIL OSI

August 27, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IperionX Limited (IperionX) (NASDAQ: IPX, ASX: IPX), announces that the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has obligated US$12.5 million under IperionX’s previously announced US$47.1 million award to strengthen the U.S. Defense Industrial Base by accelerating the scale-up of a resilient, low-cost, and fully-integrated U.S. mineral-to-metal titanium supply chain.

In response to the strategic need for increased production capacity of domestic primary titanium metal and manufactured titanium metal components, the project scope under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program has been revised to prioritize accelerated expansion of IperionX’s titanium metal and manufacturing production capacity at IperionX’s Virginia Titanium Manufacturing Campus.

The US$12.5 million will be applied to purchase orders for long-lead, major capital equipment required for the next stage of capacity scale-up to over 1,000 metric tons per year at the Virginia Titanium Manufacturing Campus. Major incremental capacity categories include titanium deoxygenation, sintering and powder metallurgy consolidation systems; near-net-shape component manufacturing and ancillary infrastructure upgrades. IperionX will provide a market update with additional details on the accelerated growth plans for the Virginia Titanium Manufacturing Campus.

The US$12.5 million in funding follows on from the US$5 million previously obligated to advance the titanium, zircon and rare earth critical mineral-rich ‘Titan Critical Minerals Project’ in Tennessee to shovel-ready status, with a definitive feasibility study underway and on-track for completion in the first half of 2026.

Total funding obligations received under the DoD award now stand at US$17.5 million, with the remaining US$29.6 million expected to be obligated by the DoD over the contract term to support additional titanium production capacity at the Virginia Titanium Manufacturing Campus.

Anastasios (Taso) Arima, IperionX CEO said:

“This new U.S. Government obligation allows IperionX to move immediately to secure long-lead capital equipment and lock in manufacturing slots with key suppliers. It accelerates our imminent Virginia expansion beyond 1,000 tpa of high-performance titanium manufactured products, and advances a fully integrated, low-cost and traceable American titanium supply chain for defense and commercial customers.

We are executing a multi-phase modular scale-up in titanium production and manufacturing capacity — and this commitment from the DoD is a strong endorsement of our technology, our team, and our mission to reshore a resilient titanium production supply chain in the United States.”

About IperionX

IperionX is a leading American titanium metal and critical materials company – using patented metal technologies to produce high performance titanium alloys, from titanium minerals or scrap titanium, at lower energy, cost and carbon emissions.

Our Titan critical minerals project is the largest JORC-compliant mineral resource of titanium, rare earth and zircon minerals sands in the United States.

IperionX’s titanium metal and critical minerals are essential for advanced U.S. industries including space, aerospace, defense, consumer electronics, hydrogen, automotive and additive manufacturing.

The full release can be found here.

Contacts

Anastasios (Taso) Arima, Founder and CEO
Toby Symonds, President
Dominic Allen, Chief Commercial Officer

Investors: investorrelations@iperionx.com
Media: media@iperionx.com

+1 980 237 8900
www.iperionx.com

– Published by The MIL Network

Linklogis Releases 2025 Interim Results, Accelerating Global Digital Asset and Stablecoin Deployment

MIL OSI

August 27, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Neswire – 26 August 2025 – On August 26, 2025, Linklogis Inc. (09959.HK, “Linklogis”) released its interim results. In the first half of 2025, the total transaction volume processed by its technology solutions reached RMB 203.6 billion. The total revenue and income amounted to RMB 374.5 million. The number of anchor enterprise and financial institution customers for its supply chain finance technology solutions increased by 244, bringing the total to 1,352, up 22% compared with 2024. Cumulatively, Linklogis has empowered over 380,000 SMEs to access digital, inclusive fintech services.

In the first half of 2025, the company remained firmly focused on its core business strategy, accelerated transformation and upgrading, and advanced organizational streamlining, which lowered operating expenses. Linklogis continually improved operational efficiency and enhanced cash flow, with cash reserves reaching RMB 5.4 billion, an increase of RMB 300 million from the balance as of December 31, 2024.

Furthermore, Linklogis fully launched its global trade finance digital asset strategy in the first half of 2025. The company introduced its innovative “Stablecoin+” initiative centered on the Digital Trade Token (DTT) and Asset-Backed Token (ABT), laying a forward-looking foundation for global supply chain finance applications and scenarios based on compliant stablecoins.

At the same time, reflecting the Board and management’s confidence in the company’s ability to deliver steady growth around its core strategies of “AI + industrial finance” and digital assets, Linklogis commits to a share repurchase of no less than USD 80 million over the next 12 months.

Multi-tier Transfer Cloud Becomes the Main Growth Engine, Accelerating Business Model Transformation and Upgrade

Amid global macroeconomic fluctuations and ongoing industry adjustments, Linklogis accelerated its business model transformation, continually improving operational efficiency and enhancing cash flow in the first half of 2025, thereby achieving steady and quality-oriented development. During this period, the total transaction volume of supply chain assets processed by its technology solutions reached RMB 203.6 billion.

Linklogis supply chain fintech solutions include Anchor Cloud, which comprises the Multi-tier Transfer Cloud and AMS Cloud, and FI Cloud, which comprises ABS Cloud and eChain Cloud. As the core segment of the company, the Multi-tier Transfer Cloud demonstrated strong performance, processing a total volume of supply chain assets amounting to RMB 133.2 billion, a year-on-year increase of 54%.

In the FI Cloud segment, Linklogis innovative receivables financing solutions for anchor enterprises deepened penetration among major infrastructure customers and expanded into emerging sectors like renewable energy in the first half of the year. In the ABS Cloud segment, the total volume of supply chain assets it processed reached RMB 9.6 billion, representing a sharp increase from the prior year. At the same time, the company concentrated on digital intelligence transformation solutions for financial institutions, strategically downscaling its low-margin business. During this period, the total volume of supply chain assets processed by eChain Cloud was RMB 26 billion.

Linklogis continued to acquire a broad and diverse range of business partners and gradually implemented innovative “de-anchored” scenario solutions on a larger scale. The company has assisted Yunnan Construction and Investment Holding Group, China Railway 25th Bureau Group Corporation Limited, Luzhou Laojiao, Shandong Xingang Group and others in offering financing product solutions without clear debtor’s acknowledgment, which included purchase order financing and receivables e-loan, continuously optimizing its product portfolio. In the first half of 2025, the number of anchor enterprise and financial institution customers for Linklogis supply chain finance technology solutions rose by 244 to reach a total of 1,352, an increase of 22% from 2024. The overall customer retention rate hit 99%, up from 96% in 2024.

“AI + Industrial Finance“ as Dual Growth Drivers, Strategic M&A Expanding Product Matrix

As a leader and pioneer in the supply chain finance technology sector, Linklogis has continued to deploy and make strides in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and blockchain. The goal is to enhance efficiency and reshape the value system across the entire supply chain through technological innovation, supporting a high-quality inclusive finance system.

In the realm of AI, Linklogis has built a comprehensive full-stack technology matrix centered on supply chain finance. By integrating leading domestic large language models (LLMs) such as DeepSeek and Qwen with its own proprietary knowledge graph and multi-dimensional data, the company has accelerated the upgrade of its vertical model, LDP-GPT, while efficiently integrating and deploying its AI capabilities.

In the first half of 2025, Beelink AI, based on Linklogis LDP-GPT model, has refined several core capabilities, with significant upgrades to two core applications: intelligent trade documents checking and intelligent registration. These enhancements have been deployed as SaaS or on-premises solutions in over 30 anchor enterprises and financial institutions, including Standard Chartered Bank, assisting them in achieving high-quality digital transformation.

In terms of scenario expansion, Linklogis completed the strategic acquisition of Bytter Technology Co., Ltd. (“Bytter Technology”), broadening its product and service matrix and improving operating efficiency to support long-term, steady growth. Bytter’s comprehensive industry-finance treasury matrix provides full-scenario solutions that support the digital transformation of its enterprise customers’ industry-finance platforms. The treasury management solution is built on a layered architecture, underpinned by advanced technologies including cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence, providing enterprises with a solid foundation for treasury management.

Looking ahead, the company will continue to advance more strategic mergers and acquisitions to cultivate diversified growth drivers.

Enhancing Global Supply Chain Finance Deployment, Driving Sustainable Value Creation

In the first half of 2025, Linklogis advanced its international expansion, continuing its dual-engine strategy of “Go Early” and “Go Deep”. Cross-border Cloud and international businesses delivered solid performance, with Cross-border Cloud achieving double-digit growth in both asset volume and revenue.

“Go Early” focuses on building a platform-based ecosystem around four key scenarios: cross-border trade, cross-border e-commerce, overseas business travel, and cross-border logistics. By aggregating resources from 12 high-quality platforms, including Infor, Amazon and Shopee, Linklogis has successfully assisted more than 1,100 SMEs in accessing one-stop digital financing services. “Go Deep” emphasizes in-depth, scenario-based services, aiming to create a comprehensive smart supply chain financing system for Chinese outbound enterprises. The system covers the entire chain from cross-border procurement and production to logistics and sales, facilitating efficient global supply chain expansion and accelerating globalization of these enterprises. Meanwhile, by establishing regional operational centers in the United Kingdom and United States of America, Linklogis has created an end-to-end service network for a multi-regional trade corridor that spans Greater China, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.

Linklogis upholds its ESG mission of “technology empowering the development of sustainable supply chain finance,” focusing on the innovative integration of digital technology and industry scenarios. Linklogis is committed to driving sustainable industrial upgrades and inclusive finance model innovation through technology, creating sustainable value for the high-quality collaboration between the real economy and digital finance. In the first half of 2025, the assets related to sustainable supply chains (including renewable energy, rural revitalization, environmental protection, and public health) processed by Linklogis surpassed RMB 29 billion, up 97% compared to the same period last year.

Linklogis has assisted over 380,000 SMEs in accessing efficient, convenient, and low-cost digital inclusive finance services. In the first half of 2025, SMEs using the SaaS platform, “Linklogis Supply Chain Multi-tier AR Transfer Platform,” secured financing at an average cost of only 2.86%. In addition to these achievements, Linklogis ESG performance has continued to lead the industry. The company received its first ESG rating from Sino-Securities Index Information Service (Shanghai) and SynTao Green Finance, as well as an “A” rating from Wind, placing it in the top 10% of the software industry. These accomplishments were further recognized with awards such as “Most Outstanding Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) China 2025” and “2025 ESG Model Enterprise.”

Building a Stablecoin Ecosystem, Advancing Global Trade Finance Digitalization

In the first half of 2025, leveraging its extensive technology expertise in digital assets, Linklogis accelerated the market introduction and penetration of innovative products and fully launched its global trade finance digital asset strategy. Building on its extensive blockchain technology implementation and practical experience, the company has built core capabilities in digital asset infrastructure, covering enterprise-grade custody, integrated cross-border payment and settlement, RWA tokenized financing, as well as compliance, risk management, and on-chain supervision.

Since fully advancing its globalization process in 2019, Linklogis has continuously empowered the transformation of cross-border and global trade finance through Web 3.0 technology. In 2020, Linklogis obtained a digital banking license in Singapore and established Green Link Digital Bank with its business partner, enhancing its capabilities in cross-border financial digital services. In 2023, under the guidance of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the company collaborated with the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), Standard Chartered Bank, and other institutions to develop the Project Dynamo prototype platform. This initiative introduced the pioneering DTT, a programmable digital trade token that integrates smart contracts with standard token protocols to automate payment terms in trade finance, providing an innovative model for global cross-border trade payments and financing. In August of the same year, Linklogis joined forces with Standard Chartered Bank to participate in Project Guardian, led by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), leveraging asset tokenization technology to create the ABT platform. This platform transforms trade receivables and other real economy assets into tradable and divisible digital assets, successfully launching the industry’s first tokenized product based on trade assets on the Singapore Exchange, thereby validating the feasibility of this technology in the trade finance sector.

As stablecoin regulatory frameworks mature in Hong Kong and worldwide, Linklogis will further integrate its existing overseas and cross-border business layouts to accelerate the innovation and application of digital asset services. In Singapore, the company will work with licensed institutions to advance the compliant issuance of DTT, implementing compliant stablecoin solutions across all scenarios in supply chain finance. In Hong Kong, Linklogis will actively pursue collaborations with stablecoin license applicants to develop the “Stablecoin+” initiative based on compliant stablecoins. Additionally, the company will actively explore innovative applications in supply chain finance scenarios together with global compliant stablecoin issuers, expanding the use of digital assets in real-world asset tokenization, cross-border digital payments, and inclusive finance, thereby empowering the digital and intelligent transformation and upgrading of the global supply chain finance ecosystem.

Charles Song, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Linklogis, said, “Looking ahead, as the global financial system undergoes significant transformation, the integration of AI with compliant stablecoins will not only redefine how cross-border capital flows operate but also provide innovative solutions for enhancing the resilience of the financial system amidst growing global economic uncertainty. Amid historic transformation opportunities, Linklogis, moving forward without burden, will fully concentrate on three core strategies, which are AI + industrial finance, strategic mergers and acquisitions, and digital assets, to build diversified engines of development and achieve sustainable, high-quality growth. Confident in our future prospects, we commit to a share repurchase of no less than USD 80 million over the next 12 months. We will also work to foster a win-win ecosystem with customers and strengthen the foundation for shareholder value.”

Hashtag: #Linklogis

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

ZJLD Group Announces Interim Results for FY2025

MIL OSI

August 26, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Forging Resilience Amid Industry Headwinds, Driving High-Quality Transformation Through Innovation and Cultural Stewardship

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Neswire – 26 August 2025 – ZJLD Group Inc. (“ZJLD” or the “Company”, together with the Company’s subsidiaries, collectively the “Group”) (SEHK stock code: 06979. HK), an outstanding representative in the Chinese baijiu industry and the first baijiu company listed in Hong Kong Stock Exchange, is pleased to announce its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (“FY 2025 1H” or the “Period”). Despite persistent macroeconomic pressures and weak consumer demand across the baijiu sector, the Group remained steadfast in its commitment to high-quality development. Through strategic channel innovation and accelerated digital transformation, ZJLD Group has reinforced its operational resilience and laid the foundation for sustainable long-term growth.

The key financial and business highlights are as follows:

	FY 2025 1H (for the six months ended June 30, 2025) *(RMB’000)*	FY 2024 1H (for the six months ended June 30, 2024) (RMB’000)	Changed by
Revenue	2,497,106	4,133,191	-39.6%
Gross profit	1,474,284	2,428,682	-39.3%
Gross profit margin	59.0%	58.8%	+0.2 percentage points
Net cash generated from/(used in) operating activities	(322,274)	574,886	-156.1%
Adjusted net profit (non-IFRS measure)	613,202	1,018,123	-39.8%
Adjusted net profit margin (non-IFRS measure)	24.6%	24.6%	—

During the Period, the Group recorded revenue of RMB 2,497.1 million, representing a year-on-year decline of 39.6%. Gross profit decreased by 39.3% to RMB 1,474.3 million. Notably, gross margin edged up to 59.0%. Adjusted net profit amounted to RMB 613.2 million, down 39.8% year-on-year, in line with the revenue trajectory.
The baijiu industry continues to grapple with structural challenges, including deteriorating channel pricing systems, compressed distributor margins, mounting financial pressure across the value chain, and sluggish terminal sales. Since Q2 2024, consumer demand has softened significantly, with notable declines in business banquets, gifting occasions, and other offline consumption scenarios. All four of the Group’s core brands experienced various degrees of revenue contraction. Flagship brand Zhenjiu, the Group’s primary growth engine, saw revenue fall 44.8% to RMB 1,491.7 million (FY 2024 1H: RMB 2,702.2 million), as the Group proactively managed channel inventory and strictly controlled sales pacing to safeguard long-term sustainability.
The Board of Directors does not recommend the declaration of an interim dividend for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (FY 2024 1H: nil).

Strategic Response: Anchored by the “Premier Retailers Alliance” Model, Driving Channel Innovation and Digital Transformation

Against the backdrop of profound market recalibration and rapidly evolving consumer behavior, the Group has positioned the “Premier Retailers Alliance” model as its central strategic framework—driving simultaneous advancement in channel innovation and digital transformation. This dual-pronged approach reshapes brand accessibility and operational efficiency, while fortifying a more resilient market response system. Far more than a vehicle for channel integration, the “Premier Retailers Alliance” model serves as a strategic nexus for deep collaboration, co-creation, and shared value between the Group and its nationwide distributor network. The Group has dismantled traditional tiered distribution structures through this alliance mechanism, enabling streamlined resource allocation, transparent information exchange, and synchronized interest alignment. These enhancements have significantly accelerated channel responsiveness and strengthened control at the terminal level. Alliance members are no longer mere conduits of product delivery; they are empowered co-architects of brand equity and frontline executors of market strategy. Together, they form a multidimensional, interconnected channel ecosystem characterized by vertical synergy and horizontal coordination.

Building on this foundation, the Group is advancing its digital transformation to achieve full-chain data integration—from production and distribution to end-consumer engagement. Through intelligent base liquor management, precision allocation and delivery, real-time sales monitoring, and consumer behavior analytics, the Group has significantly enhanced supply chain efficiency while equipping brand strategy with timely insights and data-driven decision support. Upgrades to the CRM system and membership operations framework have enabled more granular audience segmentation and personalized communication, strengthened user engagement and driven higher repurchase rates.

Importantly, the Premier Retailers Alliance also serves as a strategic launchpad for key brand initiatives, including the cultural flagship “Da Zhen” (also known as Zhen * 2020 Real Vintage Baijiu), the innovative “News Craft Beer”, and the Group’s heritage ambassador program. Whether deepening the cultural narrative of premium baijiu or expanding the experiential reach of emerging categories, the Group leverages the Alliance mechanism to enable rapid market deployment and targeted promotion—achieving a synergistic fusion of cultural storytelling, channel innovation, and technological empowerment.

Overall, the “Premier Retailers Alliance” model is the starting point of the Group’s channel reform and a central pillar supporting brand elevation and organizational resilience. Looking ahead, the Group will continue to position the Alliance at the heart of its strategy—deepening collaborative mechanisms, expanding digital capabilities, and shaping a more penetrative and sustainable competitive landscape.

Product and Brand Strategy: Dual Growth Engines of “Da Zhen” and “News Craft Beer”, Enriched by Cultural Ambassadorship

Amid structural shifts in the baijiu landscape, the Group has identified “Da Zhen” and “News Craft Beer” as dual strategic anchors to upgrade the product matrix and extend brand reach. This forward-looking approach reflects the Group’s dynamic market positioning and revitalized brand energy.

As the flagship of the Group’s premiumization journey, “Da Zhen” embodies cultural heritage and uncompromising quality standards. Featuring a minimalist clear-bottle design, the packaging is adorned with the handwritten character “珍” (Pronunciation: Zhen) by Ming Dynasty master Shen Zhou, wrapped in heritage Xuan paper. This harmonious blend of classical artistry and modern aesthetics not only enhances perceived brand value but also reinforces the Group’s competitive edge in the high-end baijiu segment. The “Da Zhen” launch marks a deeper strategic push into the sub-premium baijiu category, infusing the brand image with gravitas and prestige.

In parallel, “News Craft Beer” represents the Group’s bold foray into emerging categories through active exploration and innovative breakthroughs. Based on craft brewing techniques, the series integrates youthful design sensibilities and social appeal, successfully entering the craft beer market and expanding consumption scenarios, including gatherings, leisure, and festive occasions. Beyond reducing regulatory sensitivity associated with the category, “News Craft Beer” carries an uplifting brand ethos that resonates with the Group’s broader cultural narrative, serving as a key vehicle for brand rejuvenation and diversification.

The Group appointed renowned young actress Ms. Annabel Yao (姚安娜) as its Heritage Application Ambassador in the first half of 2025 to further elevate cultural resonance. By humanizing the brand and crafting a compelling cultural narrative, the Group deepens the intangible heritage value of traditional Chinese baijiu craftsmanship. The appointment of a “Heritage Application Ambassador” serves as a symbol of cultural continuity and a vital conduit for brand storytelling, seamlessly bridging historical artistry with contemporary relevance. This initiative enhances consumer resonance, fostering a deeper emotional and cultural connection to the brand. This initiative complements the cultural gravitas of “Da Zhen”, while standing in deliberate contrast to the inventive language of “News Craft Beer”. Together, they shape a multidimensional narrative framework to enrich the brand’s storytelling ecosystem.

Mr. Wu Xiangdong, Founder and Chairman of ZJLD Group, remarked, “The first half of 2025 presented unprecedented challenges for the baijiu industry. Shrinking consumption scenarios and intensifying channel pressures have ushered in a period of profound recalibration. This is not merely a cyclical downturn but a test of strategic conviction and cultural integrity. True resilience is not measured by speed in fair weather, but by clarity and endurance in headwinds. We remain committed to high-quality development, recalibrating our sales rhythm, optimizing channel structures, and reshaping industry norms through the Premier Retailers Alliance.

At the same time, we actively embrace artificial intelligence and digital transformation, continuously expanding consumption scenarios and product boundaries to breathe new life into traditional baijiu culture amid emerging technologies and new generations. We believe that culture is the soul of a brand, and innovation is the pulse of an enterprise. In this era of industry reinvention, ZJLD is committed to longevity and living with purpose and influence. Looking ahead, we will continue to uphold the principle of “history as the soul (以史為魂)”, seeking renewal through integrity, and opportunity amid change—as we stride steadily toward our vision of becoming a world-class distilling enterprise.”

Hashtag: #ZJLD

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