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Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund’s JUMPSTARTER Launches Global Pitch Competition

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Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund, a non-profit initiative launched by Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., today kicked off the application process for JUMPSTARTER, its signature start-up event in Hong Kong. This year, JUMPSTARTER is, for the first time, hosting a global pitch competition, with pitching events in Hong KongShenzhenShanghaiBeijingKuala LumpurLondonSan Francisco and Toronto. The aim is to connect global talent, start-ups and entrepreneurs with JUMPSTARTER’s highly competitive Hong Kong Grand Finale to take place within StartmeupHK Festival on February 11-12, 2020.

The campaign will provide up to a combined US$5 million investment commitment and US$100,000 in cash to the top five JUMPSTARTER start-ups.

In partnership with InvestHK, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd (HKEX), Cyberport and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), JUMPSTARTER will not only provide capital to winning start-ups, but also offer networking opportunities with top investors, corporates and other start-ups. As a part of InvestHK’s StartmeupHK Festival, JUMPSTARTER provides a platform that brings start-ups, entrepreneurs, corporates and investors to build, empower and boost connections among different ecosystems and international tech hubs. Top JUMPSTARTER companies will also get access to the Alibaba ecosystem to help them gain valuable insight, experience and resources to expand their businesses. (See appendix for quotes from the global co-organizer and the co-organizers)

The third JUMPSTARTER is taking the event to a new level with the introduction of eight pitching events in Hong Kongand seven other international cities from August to November 2019. Each event is expected to host over 100 start-ups, and 40 finalists from these global locations will be given the opportunity to participate in the JUMPSTARTER Grand Finale in Hong Kong in February 2020. These events will attract rising stars interested in the Hong Kong and Asiamarkets and further enhance Hong Kong’s position as a start-up hub for the region.

One of the highlights of JUMPSTARTER is a start-up competition featuring young companies from four sectors ­– retail, fintech, smart city and advanced technology — viewed as key to Hong Kong’s long-term economic development. In particular, JUMPSTARTER provides more exposure for fintech start-ups. For fintech start-ups that apply for the JUMPSTARTER competition, they will also automatically be entered into FintechHK Global Competition, organized by InvestHK, in November 2019 during Hong Kong Fintech Week. (See appendix for the application requirement and timeline)

“Our immensely successful second JUMPSTARTER early this year attracted 10,000 attendees with over 600 business proposals. By substantially expanding the scale of the competition with start-up pitching events across the Asia PacificCanadaEurope and the U.S., we are truly putting JUMPSTARTER on the global stage, welcoming incredible young entrepreneurs from around the world and connecting them with amazing opportunities,” said Cindy Chow, Executive Director of Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund.

“We look forward to empowering start-ups, regardless of their home base, and are excited to embark on new journeys together with them leveraging the unique Hong Kong advantage. Through our third JUMPSTARTER, we join hands with InvestHK, HKEX, Cyberport and HKSTP, who share a common belief with us that Hong Kong is a regional powerhouse for start-ups. We hope to continue to foster an environment in the city that embraces entrepreneurial spirit and we are ready to unleash the potential of innovations and entrepreneurship around the globe,” added Chow.

JUMPSTARTER is open for applications from today. Interested parties can visit www.jumpstarter.hk for more information.

Appendix – Quotes from Global Co-organizer and Co-organizers of JUMPSTARTER 2020

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Global Co-organizer:

Stephen Phillips, Director-General of InvestHK, said: “The two flagship events spearheaded by InvestHK – Hong Kong Fintech Week and StartmeupHK Festival – are a perfect tie-in with JUMPSTARTER. We look forward to collaborating closely with Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund in the coming months. The final pitch of the FintechHK Global Competition will take place on November 6, 2019 at Hong Kong Fintech Week, and the Grand Finale of the JUMPSTARTER Global Pitch Competition next February. With an increasing number of startups across the globe seeing impressive and explosive growth across all kinds of industries, we stand ready to support their journey in scaling their business globally via Hong Kong.”

Co-organizers:

Charles Li, Chief Executive of HKEX, said: “It is our vision to be the global markets leader in the Asian time zone — connecting China, connecting the world. We are delighted to be supporting JUMPSTARTER in helping them attract quality startups and talents to Hong Kong, and look forward to working with them in promoting Hong Kong as a world-leading centre for entrepreneurship, fundraising and IPOs.”

Peter Yan, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport, said: “Cyberport is committed to nurturing youth, start-ups and entrepreneurs to grow in the digital tech industry by connecting them to strategic partners and investors. The Global Pitch Competition by JUMPSTARTER aligns with our aim to promote Hong Kong as a hub for innovation and technology that connects quality start-ups, corporates and investors, and empower Hong Kong’s start-up community.”

Albert Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP, said: “Hong Kong Science Park is of full commitment that we strive to co-create with various stakeholders to our ever-growing I&T ecosystem, and may this empower our start-ups continue to grow and succeed by crystallising ideas into solutions. With JUMPSTARTER that connects tech hubs around the world, it further promotes a message to the world of Hong Kong as an international I&T hub and destination for global companies and talent to seek new opportunities while bringing our home-grown companies and solutions out to the world.”

Appendix – JUMPSTARTER application requirement and timeline

Application requirement

If your start-ups fulfil the following requirements, you are eligible to apply:

  • Less than 5 years old
  • Have raised less than US$20 million in funding
  • Start-up funding is between Seed and Series C stage
  • Possess a ground-breaking and innovative product or service
  • Desire to make Hong Kong part of your future plans

 

SOURCE Alibaba Group

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Launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

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A strategic partnership between two of the largest Qatari companies to add value to the local and regional market, enhancing food security and innovation in several key sectors.

DOHA, Qatar, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Senyar Trading & Distribution Company and Al Baladi Holding have announced the launch of their strategic partnership under the name of ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding’. The launch ceremony was attended by Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, and Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding. This partnership aims to provide added value to the Qatari and regional markets, and to enhance the role of Qatari companies in supporting and developing the local economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

 

 

Within this partnership, a strong economic icon was established under the name ‘Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group’, capable of implementing huge projects across the MENA region in a number of different vital sectors, especially livestock and agricultural production projects, which contributes to supporting food security and enhancing livestock in a sustainable manner. In addition, the retail sector constitutes a significant part of the Company’s activities.

Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding Group Holding includes Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding LLC, based in Qatar, Al Faisal Al Baladi Group for Malls Management and Operations, based in Egypt, and Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, based in the Sultanate of Oman. As well as livestock and agricultural production, these companies will operate in several diverse sectors including distribution and wholesale, manufacturing, hospitality and hotels, restaurants, food and beverages, with the retail sector also constituting a significant area of focus. Through these activities, they will seek to meet the growing demand for innovative products and solutions, while supporting sustainable economic development in Qatar and the region.

Commenting on this announcement, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Faisal Holding, stated: “I am pleased to witness the formation of this strategic partnership that represents the development of the private sector in Qatar and enhances its ability to compete through cooperations built on solid foundations. This partnership is a realization of Qatar Vision 2030 of empowering the private sector and enhancing its contribution to the local economy. I wish both parties success in this promising partnership.”

Mr Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairman of Al Baladi Holding and Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi, said: “We are delighted with this cooperation which opens new horizons for growth and expansion. Al Baladi Holding has achieved remarkable successes in recent years, and this partnership comes to underpin our position in the market and expand the scope of our activities. We hope that Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding will contribute to the development of successful and innovative projects that will be a source of pride for everyone.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal Al Thani, Vice Chairman of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “We share common goals, integrated resources, and expertise with Al Baladi Holding. Through this partnership, we will achieve integration and synergy in diverse businesses to maximize value for all parties, including consumers and investors, which will benefit all stakeholders and contribute to achieving a positive impact across every level.”

Mr. Abdullah Mohammed Al Attiyah, Vice Chairman of Al Baladi Holding, said: “Undoubtedly, the stability of the Qatari economy, the diversity of investment opportunities, and the positive business environment, have all contributed to Al Baladi Holding’s market leading position. We look forward to this partnership with confidence in its promise to help build a bright future”

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Mr. Tarek Mahmoud Al Sayed, Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, added: “Food security projects hold special importance, especially in their comprehensive and sustainable concept, which constitute an essential part of our future strategy. We seek to play a pivotal role in the region through livestock and agricultural production projects, as we currently own a number of livestock and agricultural production companies in Qatar and Oman, and we plan to expand and launch new projects in a number of countries in the region and North Africa. This will support Al Faisal Al Baladi in becoming a leading company in achieving food security at the regional level.”

Mr Hany Al Sayyadi, CEO and Board Member of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding, concluded by saying: “This partnership strengthens our diversified investment portfolio and facilitates the expansions of our presence in regional and global markets. Our vision is to achieve a strong presence in the Middle East region, by focusing on innovation and quality in all our sectors. This partnership is a natural extension of the vision of both companies to enhance economic integration and contribute to driving development in Qatar and the region.”

Al Faisal Al Baladi plans to expand its business activities in regional and global markets, by utilizing the diverse investment opportunities represented by the manufacturing, hospitality and retail sectors. The Group’s current portfolio includes more than 30 leading companies in their fields, including Al Baladi and Al Baladi Express Markets, Al Wajba Dairy and Juice Factory, City Limousine Company, in addition to a number of restaurants and companies in the food sector, and many others.

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Chairman of Al Faisal Holding Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, and Chairman of Al Baladi Holding Mohammed Abdullah Al Attiyah along with other officials during the launch of Al Faisal Al Baladi Holding

 

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Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”) Q3FY24 revenue (excluding accounting construction revenue) increases by 23.8% to 341.8 million

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  • Revenue grew by 23.8% compared to previous year
  • Gross profit of SAR 179.8 million, a 21.7% increase compared to Q3FY23
  • Adjusted EBITDA rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sustainable Infrastructure Holding Company (“SISCO”, “TADAWUL: 2190”), Saudi Arabia’s leading strategic investor in Ports & Logistics and Water Solutions has announced its financial results for the quarter ended 30 September 2024.

Revenues for the third quarter of 2024, excluding accounting construction revenue, grew by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23 to reach SAR 341.8 million. On a quarter-to-quarter basis, revenues grew by 13.0% compared to Q2FY24.

The third-quarter gross profit of SAR 179.8 million represents 14.7% quarter-on-quarter growth and 21.7% growth compared to Q3FY23. The gross profit margin for Q3FY24 was down 0.9% year-on-year, due to increased depreciation and direct costs, but was up 0.8% quarter-on-quarter, in line with expectations. Year-to-date saw gross profits increase by 13.8% to SAR 469.5 million.

Adjusted EBITDA growth rose 29.5% to SAR 210.2 million compared to Q3FY23, aligning SISCO with strategic goals. Quarter-on-quarter growth was 20.8%, with a year-to-date increase of 17.7% to SAR 543.8 million.

SISCO reports a strong recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal from subdued Q3FY23 Port segment results due to the Red Sea situation. Port volume reached 828,868 TEUs in Q3FY24, returning to levels similar to Q4FY23.

Commenting on the results: Eng. Khalid Suleimani, Group CEO, SISCO said:

“I am pleased to report that SISCO has continued to demonstrate strong growth and operational performance in Q3FY24, with revenues improving by 23.8% compared to Q3FY23. Our Ports segment, which remains a key growth driver, saw a significant increase, leading to robust results despite the Red Sea challenges.

Net income remains strong, despite the one-off payment of SAR 25 million to Zakat. Another highlight of the quarter is the impressive recovery in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal, highlighting it’s resilience.

We are also excited to announce the Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) concession, which will allow us to expand operations across all non-containerised port facilities in the Red Sea Gateway Terminal. This strategic initiative positions SISCO to capture further growth opportunities domestically and internationally.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to executing our five-year strategy to double revenues by 2026 and continue delivering long-term value to our shareholders.”

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Bybit Crypto Titans: November Arena Boasts 55,000 USDT in Rewards

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DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, opens up the November arena for the Bybit Crypto Titans trading competition. Available for users in select regions, a prize pool of 55,000 USDT will be available for a limited time only.

From now to Nov. 30, eligible traders can level up their trading strategies and amplify their winning chances by inviting friends to share two prize pools in two simple steps: register for the event at the Grand Arena, and invite friends and trade.

Battlefields: Once in the Arena, users can pick their battlefields. Up to 30,000 USDT are up for grabs in the Team Battlefield ranked by total trading volume, while another 15,000 USDT is reserved for traders in the Solo Battlefield competing by PnL(%).

More perks: Additionally, top traders and leaders will receive extra perks. Participants will receive a bonus 5 USDT for every new qualified referee, and the first 50 Team Leaders whose team exceeds a threshold amount in trading volume will be entitled to a 100 USDT bonus.

“As trading volumes overall are climbing, we are seeing so many talented traders in our community with a knack for navigating fast-moving markets. This event gives some of them an incentive to share their passion with their friends, and there is room for rewards for the solo trading pros to shine as well,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director of Bybit.

Market sentiment and activities have been trending up in recent weeks globally, and the enthusiasm is shared among users in niche markets. While traders rush to capture opportunities in a heated market, the Crypto Titans competition encourages users to bring out the best trading game and hone their trading skills for healthier returns.

Find out more about Bybit’s Crypto Titans: November Showdown, terms and conditions apply.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

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