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Manulife Investment Management Shares Analysis and Investment Insights within Natural Capital, TCFD and SRI Reports

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8 months ago

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TORONTO, Aug. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife Investment Management (Manulife IM), the world’s largest manager of natural capital with over $16 billion in assets under management in timberland and agriculture1, has recently released three reports detailing how it incorporates financially material climate- and nature-related investment considerations into its asset management and portfolio construction capabilities. Interested market participants can use the insights from Manulife IM’s Natural Capital Sustainability report,  Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) report and Sustainable and Responsible Investing (SRI) report, for deeper awareness about sustainable investing and to assess various investment risks and opportunities across public and private market asset classes.

The reports highlight Manulife IM’s commitment in seeking to deliver strong long-term investment performance, the importance of natural capital to human health, and the opportunity for timberland and agriculture assets to bring value to portfolios and to the planet.  As an example, within its climate and natural capital investment solutions, Manulife IM has a strategy that provides investors with an opportunity to invest in timberlands in a way that creates high integrity carbon credits through enhanced management practices which purposefully add to the stored carbon in the forest. 

“We are excited to share these reports with market participants as we believe that climate-related risks and other sustainability factors can have a material effect on long-term financial value and, as a result, on our clients’ investment objectives,” said Paul Lorentz, President & CEO of Manulife IM. “Throughout all of our investment processes, we seek to incorporate all financially material risks, including sustainability factors, as our primary goal is to enhance the returns of the capital we manage on behalf of our clients.”

Manulife IM’s most recent Natural Capital Sustainability report highlights the importance of natural capital to institutional investment portfolios, the dependency the world has on these assets, and how these investments can create value beyond the physical products they generate. Highlights include:

  • Manulife IM’s timberland investment properties planted over 50 million seedlings, produced lumber to build more than 100,000 houses, enough fiberwood to make approximately 2.2 million tons of paper, and yielded enough biomass to produce electricity for the equivalent of 1,500 American homes for a year;
  • Manulife IM’s integration of regenerative practices across its agriculture portfolio continues to focus on producing more food with a smaller footprint. During 2023, 100% of client properties reported using at least one regenerative practice and 78% of properties use four or more regenerative practices; and
  • Progress reports on the firm’s five nature targets, aligned with the Finance for Biodiversity Pledge that are on track to be fulfilled by 2025. The targets include improving collaboration and knowledge sharing on assessment methodologies, incorporating biodiversity into ESG policies, assessing the impact of investments on biodiversity, using science-based targets to improve biodiversity impact, and annual reporting to measure and assess progress toward biodiversity goals.

“Natural capital is not just a concept; it’s a measurable and monetizable reality that has intrinsic value in supporting the global economy,” said Brian Kernohan, Chief Sustainability Officer, Manulife Investment Management. “We believe nature is a mispriced asset that provides true economic and societal value for the benefit of all.”

The latest TCFD report outlines how Manulife IM incorporates climate-related risks and opportunities into investment decisions through appropriate governance, strategy, risk management, and metrics and targets.

Highlights from the TCFD report include:

  • 90% of Manulife IM ‘s global real estate equity portfolio earning certification of a green building standard, such as LEED, ENERGY STAR, or BOMA BEST;2
  • Manulife IM removing an estimated 1.5 million tons of CO2e from the atmosphere by its managed forests and farms on a five-year rolling average; and
  • Manulife IM seeks to increase access to the number and variety of sustainable investing options available to its clients.

Manulife IM’s latest SRI report provides insight into the firm’s approach to sustainable investing, including its governance, stewardship information, its scorecard from the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), and other sustainability milestones and outcomes.

Highlights from the SRI report this year include the firm’s:

  • Publication of its inaugural nature report aligned with the recommendations of the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD), outlining the firm’s approach to managing nature-related risks and opportunities in its timberland and agriculture businesses;
  • Achievement of a GRESB 5 Star rating for the sixth consecutive year;3
  • Formalization of its sustainable investing strategy for its private equity and credit platform, which included establishing near-term priorities and longer-term commitments;
  • Development of a firmwide client-directed exclusions framework; and
  • Publication of its water statement, which recognizes the fundamental importance of water to human health, livelihoods, ecosystems, the global economy, and the future of asset management.

“As we navigate this dynamic space, our reporting looks to provide comprehensive insights to help drive positive change and foster long-term sustainability through our investment strategies. We’re committed to continue enhancing our reporting so that all our stakeholders can get a clear picture of our efforts to manage climate impact and risk exposures as well as enhance long-term value creation,” concluded Mr. Kernohan.

Please find more information about Manulife IM’s approach to sustainable investing online here:  https://www.manulifeim.com/institutional/global/en/sustainability.

About Manulife Investment Management

Manulife Investment Management is the brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE: MFC). Our mission is to make decisions easier and lives better by empowering investors for a better tomorrow. Serving more than 19 million individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members, we believe our global reach, complementary businesses, and the strength of our parent company position us to help investors capitalize on today’s emerging global trends. We provide our clients access to public and private investment solutions across equities, fixed income, multi-asset, alternative, and sustainability-linked strategies, such as natural capital, to help them make more informed financial decisions and achieve their investment objectives. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulifeim.com.

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It should not be assumed that any ESG or sustainability initiatives, standards, or metrics described herein will apply to each asset in which Manulife Investment Management invests or that any ESG or sustainability initiatives, standards, or metrics described have applied to any individual prior investment of Manulife Investment Management. There is no guarantee that any initiatives or anticipated developments described herein will ultimately be successful or achieve anticipated outcomes. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors are only some of many considerations that Manulife Investment Management takes into account when making investment decisions, and other considerations can be expected in certain circumstances to outweigh ESG considerations. Any ESG or sustainability initiatives described will be implemented with respect to a portfolio investment solely to the extent Manulife Investment Management determines such initiative is consistent with its broader investment goals. Individual portfolio management teams may hold different views and make different investment decisions for different clients, and views may change over time. Investors should always read the current investment services information or fund offering documents before deciding to select an investment manager or to invest in a fund.

1.

IPE research, as of February 2024. Ranking is based on total natural capital assets under management (AUM), which includes forestry/timberland and agriculture/farmland AUM. Firms were asked to provide AUM and the as of dates vary from 12/31/2022 to 12/31/2023.

2.

Based on square footage of the gross floor area or building size, of properties in the global portfolio. Totals from different certification standards do not sum as properties with multiple certifications are only counted once. Certifications are provided by LEED, ENERGY STAR Certification, BOMA BEST, GBCA Green Star, BCA Green Mark, NABERS, CASBEE, BOMA 360, and Fitwel.

3.

Based on GRESB results released October 2023 that cover the 2022 time period. Manulife Investment Management paid a per fund submission fee, per year. The GRESB Rating is an overall measure of how well sustainability issues are integrated into the management and practices of companies and funds. For more information about the GRESB Real Estate Assessment, please see gresb.com/nl-en/real-estate-assessment.

Asia:
Carl Wong
Carl_KK_Wong@manulifeam.com

North America and Europe:
Elizabeth Bartlett
Elizabeth_Bartlett@manulife.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/manulife-investment-management-shares-analysis-and-investment-insights-within-natural-capital-tcfd-and-sri-reports-302229433.html

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CE-LINK Unveils Next-Gen Solid-State Battery Power Bank, Leading a New Era of Mobile Charging

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2 hours ago

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April 9, 2025

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HONG KONG, April 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CE LINK LIMITED (“CE-LINK”), a leading manufacturer of consumer electronics, is thrilled to introduce its latest generation of power banks, featuring revolutionary solid-state battery technology, redefining safety and performance. From April 11-14, visit booth 3A-02, Hall 3 at AsiaWorld–Experience this game-changer at the upcoming Global Sources Electronic Show in Hong Kong.

Advancing Safety and Performance with Solid-State Technology

CE-LINK’s next-gen power banks replace liquid lithium-ion batteries with advanced solid-state lithium-ion polymer batteries for superior benefits:

  • Superior Safety: The non-flammable solid electrolyte eliminates fire and explosion risks of traditional liquid batteries. Tested under extreme conditions—steel needle puncture, extrusion, drop, overcharge, and overdischarge—these power banks ensure unmatched safety.
  • Extended Lifespan: Solid-state batteries far exceed the life cycle of traditional lithium batteries, making them a more sustainable choice. These power banks retain over 80% of their original capacity even after 500 charge cycles.
  • Wider Operating Temperature: Supports 0°C to 45°C for charging and -20°C to 60°C for discharging. They maintain stable performance in both hot and cold environments, making them ideal for outdoor exploration and polar scientific research scenarios.

Versatile Power Bank Series to Meet Diversified Needs

CE-LINK’s new power bank lineup caters to diverse user scenarios with multiple models:

  • PD Slim Power Bank (5000mAh & 10000mAh): Ultra-thin 10.8mm design fits easily in pockets and bags. The storable USB-C lanyard cable makes it perfect for commuting and short trips.
  • Built-in Retractable Cable Power Bank (5000mAh/10000mAh): Features a patented 75cm USB-C retractable cable, tested for 10,000 uses. With a gentle pull, the cable retracts smoothly from any length—ideal for frequent travelers.
  • USB-C Power Bank (5000mAh): A push-slip design extends and stows the USB-C port for charging and protection. Rigorously plugging and pulling tested 10,000+ times, ensuring durability. Built-in zinc alloy bracket adds usage flexibility.
  • 67W 2-in-1 Power Bank (10000mAh): Combines a GaN charger and power bank, with a foldable AC pin supporting global voltage. The intelligent LCD screen shows real-time output power of each port, and 67W output charges laptops, tablets, and phones simultaneously—ideal for business professionals.

CE-LINK remains dedicated to pioneering cutting-edge charging solutions that enhance user experience. “Solid-state battery technology is the future of power banks,” said Erica, Product Manager at CE-LINK. “This launch not only brings unparalleled safety and performance to users but also drives the industry towards more efficient and reliable power solutions.”

About CE-LINK

Founded in 2004, CE-LINK is a leading OEM and ODM company dedicated to developing cutting-edge consumer electronics solutions. With over 20 years of precision manufacturing expertise, CE-LINK leads innovation, focusing on research, development, and sustainability to deliver next-gen technologies that meet the evolving needs of global consumers and businesses.

For more information on CE-LINK, please visit www.ce-link.com.

Or following them on:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ce-link
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CELINK.ELECTRONICS
Media Contact: market@ce-link.com

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Hex Trust Partners with IDA to Provide Institutional-grade Custody for Stablecoin Products

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2 hours ago

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April 9, 2025

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HONG KONG, April 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hex Trust, a leading digital assets financial institution specializing in custody, staking, and markets services has partnered with IDA, a premier HK-based fintech company. Through this collaboration, Hex Trust will provide licensed, institutional-grade custody services for IDA’s stablecoin products, enabling compliant and seamless cross-border commerce and digital payments.  

With its multi-jurisdictional licenses, and deep institutional expertise, Hex Trust will ensure secure and compliant custody solutions that uphold regulatory standards and enhance security for all transactions with IDA. Furthermore, IDA and Hex Trust will collaborate to explore real-world use cases for cross-border trade, aiming to enhance payment efficiency while ensuring regulatory requirements.

“The stablecoin initiative will strengthen Hong Kong’s competitive edge as a global financial hub,” said Giorgia Pellizzari, Managing Director and Head of Custody of Hex Trust. “Our role as an institutional-grade custodian reflects our commitment to fostering a secure and compliant financial ecosystem for digital assets. We’re excited to partner with IDA to propel the success of this innovative product.”

Sean Lee, Co-Founder and CSO of IDA, stated, “This marks just the beginning of our partnership. Beyond custody, we are exploring new opportunities to unlock global trade and commerce, enabling smoother transactions in collaboration with Hex Trust.”

In addition to the stablecoin solution, IDA is developing a comprehensive financial infrastructure to bridge stablecoin operations with enhanced connectivity between blockchain networks and traditional financial systems. Hex Trust and IDA are also exploring deeper collaborations, including FX features, on this robust platform to foster a thriving stablecoin ecosystem.

About Hex Trust

Established in 2018, Hex Trust offers regulated institutional digital asset custody, staking, and markets services to builders, investors, and service providers. Get access to our comprehensive, secure, and regulated suite of services built on our proprietary and fully integrated infrastructure. For more information, visit Hextrust.com or follow Hex Trust on LinkedIn, X, and Telegram.

About IDA Finance Hong Kong Limited (IDA)

IDA is the premier digital asset technology company to spearhead the widespread adoption of blockchain finance and to empower businesses to seamlessly integrate between Web2 and Web3.   

IDA will launch a stablecoin product which is designed to drive enhanced connectivity of digital currency for seamless commerce and payments between Hong Kong and global markets, 24/7/365.  To maintain the highest level of security and stability, all circulating stablecoins will always be fully backed by at least 100% reserve assets in regulated Hong Kong based authorized institutions.  

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More information can be found at idafi.xyz / LinkedIn / X

Disclaimer:

This post is for informational purposes only and is not financial, investment or other advice, nor a recommendation, endorsement, offer, solicitation or sale of any kind in any jurisdiction.  As always, users should do their own research and are urged to seek independent financial, investment and other advice before taking any initiative in connection with the information contained herein. The information contained in this article is intended to be current at the time of publication, but may not remain so indefinitely.  Products or services mentioned in this material are subject to legal and regulatory requirements in applicable jurisdictions and may not be available in all jurisdictions nor to all persons.

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Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hex-trust-partners-with-ida-to-provide-institutional-grade-custody-for-stablecoin-products-302423239.html

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OCI Global Announces Agreement with Bondholders

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6 hours ago

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April 8, 2025

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AMSTERDAM, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OCI Global (Euronext: OCI) a leading global producer and distributor of hydrogen products today announced that it has reached a support agreement (the “Support Agreement”) with a group of holders (the “Bondholder Group”) of its U.S.$ 600,000,000 6.700 per cent Notes due 2033 (the “Bonds”), relating to the treatment of the Bonds following the completion of the announced sale of OCI’s Global Methanol Business to Methanex Corporation (the “MetCo Transaction”).  The Bondholder Group includes members holding Bonds with a principal amount in excess of 60% of the total outstanding principal amount of the Bonds.   

Under the terms of the Support Agreement:

  • OCI agrees that it will launch a tender offer for the Bonds within 5 business days of the successful closing of the MetCo Transaction, and each member of the Bondholder Group agrees to support and tender into any such tender offer.  The tender offer will be on customary terms and offer a price of 110.75% of par, plus accrued and unpaid interest; and
  • Each member of the Bondholder Group agrees that it will support any amendment to the Bonds proposed by OCI, which amends the documentation governing the Bonds to (1) insert a right of OCI to redeem the Bonds on or after the closing of the MetCo Transaction at a price of 110.75% of par, plus accrued and unpaid interest,  and (2) waiving any alleged defaults or events of default that may be outstanding under the documentation governing the Bonds.

Hassan Badrawi, CEO of OCI commented: “We are delighted to have reached agreement with a large group of our bondholders, with a view to an orderly pay down of our capital structure upon the closing of the MetCo Transaction.  OCI has a long and positive history in the bond markets and values its relationship with its investors, so we are pleased to have structured a deal that allows everyone to participate and rewards bondholders fairly for their faith in OCI over all these years.”

This press release contains information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

ABOUT OCI GLOBAL

Learn more about OCI at www.oci-global.com. You can also follow OCI on LinkedIn.

CONTACT

Sarah Rajani CFA
Global Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications
Email: sarah.rajani@oci-global.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/oci-global-announces-agreement-with-bondholders-302423892.html

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