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LG EXPANDS INVESTMENT IN AI AND DEEP TECH STARTUPS

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Company Joins SBVA’s AI Fund and Continues Efforts to Nurture Future Businesses Through Open Innovation Activities

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — LG Electronics (LG) is making significant investments in startups specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and deep tech. LG has committed USD 10 million as a key limited partner in the newly established USD 130 million “Alpha Intelligence Fund (AIF)” by SBVA.

SBVA will curate a portfolio for AIF by selecting startups with high growth potential in AI, deep tech and robotics. The firm aims to leverage its global networks and resources to support the growth and meaningful achievements of these startups.

For over 20 years, SBVA has been investing in global startups, enhancing its expertise in ICT technology and strengthening its international network. By participating in the SBVA fund, LG plans to engage in the sharing of information on rapidly changing innovative technology trends and reflect these global market changes in its management strategies.

Through this investment, LG aims to expand cooperation with innovative startups and continue efforts to secure future technologies, ultimately seeking qualitative growth. The company plans to strengthen its networking with leading global companies and startups, discover additional opportunities for strategic investments and secure technological capabilities for future businesses.

LG intends to accelerate its transformation into a “Smart Life Solutions” company by securing innovative technologies for its key growth engines, including platform-based service businesses, B2B businesses and other new ventures. The company plans to continue efforts to secure future core technologies and expand its business areas beyond the home to business spaces, mobility and more.

Previously, in July, LG acquired an 80 percent stake in Athom, a smart home platform company headquartered in Enschede, Netherlands, and signed a contract to acquire the remaining 20 percent within the next three years. In March, LG invested USD 60 million in Bear Robotics – an AI-based autonomous service robot startup headquartered in Redwood City, Silicon Valley, USA – through a new stock acquisition agreement to acquire a stake in Bear Robotics.

In addition, through LG NOVA – the company’s Silicon Valley-based innovation center – LG has been conducting annual contests since 2021 to discover and nurture startups with innovative ideas and support their commercialization, thereby seeking new business opportunities. LG NOVA is particularly focused on building sustainable growth and nurturing systems for future innovative industries such as digital healthcare, clean tech and AI.

“By participating in the AIF, we aim to secure AI capabilities through active open innovation activities and strengthen our position within the AI value chain,” said Eugene Yoo, vice president and leader of the Open Innovation Task at LG. “We plan to discover and collaborate with capable startups to explore future business opportunities.”

“We will continue to make investments that accelerate technological innovation, leveraging our differentiated technical expertise, global network and investment experience. We plan to maximize the growth potential of these companies by supporting the establishment of joint ventures with startups and major investors, and by promoting collaborative business projects,” said SBVA CEO JP Lee.

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Meanwhile, SBVA, established as SoftBank Ventures Asia under the SoftBank Group, was acquired last year by The Edgeof, an investment company led by Taizo Son, chairman of the global investment firm Mistletoe, and became independent. SBVA manages assets totaling approximately USD 2 billion AUM and has offices in San Francisco, Israel, Singapore and Seoul. It is investing in over 100 companies. SBVA plans to conduct a second closing within the year to increase the size of the AIF.

About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics is a global innovator in technology and consumer electronics with a presence in almost every country and an international workforce of more than 74,000. LG’s four companies – Home Appliance & Air Solution, Home Entertainment, Vehicle component Solutions and Business Solutions – combined for global revenue of over KRW 84 trillion in 2023. LG is a leading manufacturer of consumer and commercial products ranging from TVs, home appliances, air solutions, monitors, automotive components and solutions, and its premium LG SIGNATURE and intelligent LG ThinQ brands are familiar names world over. Visit www.LGnewsroom.com for the latest news.

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PayerMax Recognized as “Best Payment Service Provider” by MEA Finance

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DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — PayerMax, a leading global provider of payment solutions, has been named Best Payments Solutions Provider of 2024 by MEA Finance magazine at an award ceremony hosted on November 12 in Dubai. The award is a testament of PayerMax’s success in providing exceptional financial technology services to clients in the Middle East and Africa, as well as its leadership position in payment solutions.

The annual MEA Finance Industry Awards recognizes the financial institutions, technology solutions providers, fintech companies, service providers and individuals for exceptional achievements, groundbreaking services and inspirational leadership in delivering innovative products and services.

“We’re very honored to receive the award. It not only recognizes the success of our innovative technologies and regional strategies, but also it is the perfect testimonial of how our team thrives to create superior values for our clients, and we look forward to more cooperation with more partners,” said Wang Hu, co-founder of PayerMax. “Looking ahead, PayerMax remains committed to further strengthening our presence and deepening our efforts in the Middle Eastern market. We will continue to empower more businesses and enhance the digital payment ecosystem across regions, driving value and growth for clients around the world.”

In 2024, PayerMax achieved major milestones in the Middle East market. In alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, PayerMax became the first Asian fintech company to establish a regional headquarters in Riyadh and obtained the Payment Technical Service Provider (PTSP) certification from Saudi Payments on behalf of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) in September. This certification allows PayerMax to operate seamlessly within Saudi Arabia’s financial ecosystem, providing merchants across the country with secure, flexible, and efficient payment solutions. The company has also formed partnerships with leading banks such as SAB and Emirates NBD, advancing the digital twin ecosystem while supporting financial inclusion, economic diversification, and an enhanced user experience through digital payments in the region. Furthermore, as the first Asian fintech company to secure the UAE’s payment license, PayerMax is strengthening its presence and expanding operations across the Middle East.

Beyond the Middle East, PayerMax’s achievements in 2024 were globally recognized. In May,  PayerMax was awarded the 2024 “Best Payments and Collections Solution” award from The Asset in the prestigious “The Asset Triple A Awards.” With an impressive 95% coverage of mainstream payment methods in emerging markets, PayerMax continues to build on its vision of providing innovative payment solutions worldwide.

PayerMax is committed to providing businesses with one-stop local payment solutions to meet their diverse payment needs. Its extensive network supports a wide range of over 600 payment methods, more than 70 transaction currencies, and over 20 local languages, catering to diverse global user payment preferences. With a vision to drive merchant success on a global scale, PayerMax offers an array of value-added services, including risk management, foreign exchange management, payment marketing (webshop), and finance & tax services, constructing a comprehensive environment for merchants to excel in a competitive global marketplace and handle the intricacies of globalization with ease.

Looking ahead, PayerMax is committed to staying at the forefront of the evolving digital payment landscape. The company will continue to invest in technological innovation and service enhancements to deliver increased value and opportunities to its customers. By doing so, PayerMax aims to empower global business expansion and facilitate the transition to a cashless society. For more information, please visit https://www.payermax.com/.

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Hyundai Motor Group Announces 2024 Second Half Key Executive Appointments

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  • Jaehoon Chang is promoted to Vice Chair of Hyundai Motor Group – Automotive Division
  • José Muñoz appointed as CEO of Hyundai Motor Company
  • Sung Kim appointed as President of Hyundai Motor Company
  • Jun Young Choi is promoted to President of Kia Corporation; and Kyoo Bok Lee is promoted to President of Hyundai Glovis
  • Appointment of new CEOs for the Group’s affiliates, including Cheol Seung Baek, Hyundai Transys; Joon Dong Oh, Hyundai KEFICO; Hanwoo Lee, Hyundai E&C; Woo Jeong Joo, Hyundai Engineering

SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today announced key executive appointments for the year 2024 as part of its aims to solidify sustainable growth and better prepare for uncertainties in the global business environment.

This appointment reflects its commitment to a performance-based approach that aligns with outstanding achievements. By consolidating the Group’s core competencies and strategically placing proven leaders with verified track records in key positions, the Group aims to strengthen organizational foundations and accelerate our future transformation.

Jaehoon Chang is promoted to Vice Chair of Hyundai Motor Group – Automotive Division, effective Jan. 1st, 2025, to further strengthen the future competitiveness of the Group’s mobility business.

Looking ahead, Chang will oversee the entire value chain, including product planning, supply chain management manufacturing, and quality assessment. He will optimize business operations across the automotive business while securing internal synergies and building foundational systems for cost and quality innovation to ensure sustainable future competitiveness.

José Muñoz is appointed President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company to advance global management framework and solidify customer-focused mobility innovation through diverse powertrain offerings, including electric, hybrid, ICE and hydrogen technologies, effective Jan. 1st, 2025.

Jose Munoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company (PRNewsfoto/Hyundai Motor Group)

As a result, Muñoz is appointed as the first non-Korean CEO of Hyundai Motor – identified as the ideal fit to further enhance the company’s performance thanks to his merit-based management philosophy and his commitment to recruiting top global talent. Going forward, he is expected to enhance the company’s global management systems and further elevate its stature as a leading global brand.

Sung Kim is appointed as President of Hyundai Motor Company to manage the business effectively through global economic uncertainties, effective Jan. 1st, 2025.

Sung Kim, President of Hyundai Motor Company (PRNewsfoto/Hyundai Motor Group)

As part of his appointment to enhance the company’s Think Tank capabilities and better navigate various geopolitical challenges, Kim will oversee global external affairs, analyze and research domestic and international policy trends, and lead communications and PR initiatives. He will focus on increasing synergies across the company’s intelligence functions, strengthening external networking and advancing global protocol capabilities.

Jun Young Choi is promoted to President of Kia Corporation from Head of Domestic Production Division and Chief Safety Officer (CSO). Kyoo Bok Lee, CEO of Hyundai Glovis, is promoted to President.

To strengthen sustainable management and accelerate business transformation, the Group has appointed Cheol Seung Baek as CEO of Hyundai Transys and Joon Dong Oh as CEO of Hyundai KEFICO.

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To address challenges in the construction industry and accelerate fundamental improvements, the Group has appointed Hanwoo Lee as CEO of Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. (Hyundai E&C) and Woo Jeong Joo as CEO of Hyundai Engineering Co., Ltd.

* Editor’s note: Appointment of all CEOs referenced are subject to approval by the relevant Group affiliate’s Board of Directors

About Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group’s mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all.

More information about Hyundai Motor Group can be found at:

http://www.hyundaimotorgroup.com or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai, Kia Global Media Center (kianewscenter.com), Genesis Media Center.

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DC to VC – NatWest Cushon and Future Planet Capital Lead the Charge in UK Pension Access to British Innovation

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LONDON, Nov. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Future Planet Capital (FPC) is delighted to be working with NatWest Cushon, with a view to the Cushon Master Trust potentially making an investment in the British Co-Investment Fund (BCF). Any future investment will be subject to commercial terms, due diligence, and Trustee approval. If approved, NatWest Cushon’s participation would signify a major step forward, creating new avenues for British pension funds to access high-growth, private technology companies at scale. In partnership with pension solutions provider Mobius Life, the Fund will channel pension investment into the UK’s most innovative and impactful businesses.  

The BCF closely aligns with the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s vision under the Mansion House Reforms, aiming to unlock large-scale investment in key British industries. It emphasises the private sector’s pivotal role in accelerating innovation and economic growth, through supporting the UK’s most promising and high-impact technology businesses.

Historically, British pension funds have had limited access to high-growth investment opportunities within the UK, meaning that overseas investors have been the primary beneficiaries of the nation’s flourishing innovation economy. Indeed, according to the BVCA, 86% of venture capital investment comes from overseas investors.  To redress the balance, the BCF will be one of the first funds designed specifically for UK regular savings pension funds. It will offer direct and ongoing access to investments in the strategic technologies of the future.

Examples of companies likely to benefit from the Fund’s investments include Tokamak Energy, a world-record holder in nuclear fusion technology. The government-backed UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), managed by Future Planet Capital, was the first investor in Tokamak Energy, which has since gone on to raise over $250m. This demonstrates the role of public-private partnership in supporting British technology to drive both economic growth and environmental impact. With the support of mainstream British capital, much more can now be done.

Lord Norman Foster, Chair of Future Planet Capital’s Advisory Board shared, “One of our most important tasks is to anticipate the future and find ways to have a positive impact on the wellbeing of people and the planet. We will need intellectual and financial capital to make that happen. This partnership supports the excellent work that is being done to invest in ground-breaking technologies which offer incredible potential.” 

Douglas Hansen-Luke, Executive Chairman and Co-founder of Future Planet Capital, commented, “This collaboration enables British pension savers to support the next generation of British innovation, ensuring that UK capital not only backs but also benefits from the country’s technological and sustainable advancements.”

Julius Pursaill, Pensions expert and advisor to the Cushon Master Trust, said:
“There are a number of good reasons to support the UK Growth agenda. Innovations like the British Co-Investment Fund play an important role in delivering on this objective by driving financial growth whilst also offering access to innovative, impact-focused sectors such as climate technology and artificial intelligence, which can help secure the future for pension savers and broader society.”

About Future Planet Capital

Future Planet Capital is an impact-led venture capital firm built to back growth companies from the world’s top universities and research ecosystems. Founded in Britain with global outlook and reach, Future Planet Capital manages over $460m for public and private investors and has deployed a further $200m of co-investment. With 140 portfolio companies across geographies and stages their mission is to invest in high-growth companies solving global challenges. Mapped against the UN Sustainable Development Goals, these include climate change, education, health, security, and sustainable growth.

For more information visit: https://futureplanetcapital.com/

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Other potential investments include: 

Tropic Biosciences, founded in 2016 with an initial investment from Future Planet Capital’s UKI2S fund, is reshaping agriculture to improve resilience, efficiency, and sustainability in food production.

Roslin Technologies, spun out of the University of Edinburgh, pioneers the development of pluripotent stem cells for cultivated meat. Their technology addresses the global protein gap by enabling scalable, sustainable meat production without raising animals. By providing genetically stable, self-replicating stem cells, Roslin delivers solutions that reduce production costs to less than $15/kg, positioning itself as a leader in a $2BN cell market by 2035.

Beam (formally known as Rovco) is a growth-stage autonomous robotics company specialising in subsea services for the offshore wind sector. With £19 million in 2023 revenue, the company is rapidly scaling, leveraging cutting-edge AI and computer vision to lead the way in subsea autonomy.

Quotes of Support:

Lord Wei of Shoreditch
”Changing the world and making an impact at scale is really tough and at times can be a lonely place. Future Planet Capital has managed to pull together globally an immense network of investors, founders, and experts to tackle the biggest challenges facing the world today. It is truly a fellowship, and a font of innovation, as well as being a premier fund platform. In these fast changing times it is so reassuring to know that there are innovators working on making the world a safer, cooler, and better place, whose chances of success are being supercharged through the FPC community.”

Jim Wilkinson, Chief Financial Officer, Oxford Science Enterprises
‘Future Planet Capital’s investment strategy offers not only something different, but something that has been lacking in this space. Its approach as well as its scope -involving a remarkable series of partnerships with leading universities and university venture funds – make it a very valuable strategic partner for anyone active in this field.’

Paul Abberley, Investment Governance Board Chair
CEO at Charles Stanley, one of the oldest firms on the London Stock Exchange. Previously the CEO / CIO of Aviva Investors. 

‘Successful innovations deliver superior investment returns. When those innovations have a positive impact on broader society, the capital investments which makes them possible benefit all stakeholders. Responsible investing of this type is easy to envisage but harder to implement, because identification of suitable opportunities is so challenging. The Future Planet approach bridges that gap.’

Priya Guha OBE, Member of the Future Planet Capital Investment Governance Board
‘With the Chancellor firing the starting gun on this Government’s pension reforms in yesterday’s Mansion House Speech, I am delighted Future Planet Capital are able to announce they are in discussion with NatWest Cushon for an investment into the British Co-Investment Fund.  With their strong reputation for investing in high-growth high-impact companies in the technology sector, Future Planet Capital’s BCF is exactly the right vehicle through which pension funds can back the scaling companies of the future; a win-win for British scale-ups and for British pensioners.’

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Matthew Hurn OBE, Deputy Chair of Future Planet Capital’s Advisory Board
‘The UK Growth agenda presents an exciting opportunity and it is vital that we have in place the tools needed to fulfil this potential. I strongly welcome this partnership which signals an important step forward – helping to pave the way to greater financial growth while offering savers access to world leading, impactful innovation.’

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