Fintech PR

CGTN: China, Africa set to embrace closer economic, trade ties at FOCAC

Published

3 weeks ago

August 31, 2024

BEIJING, Aug. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Located 95 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, in the heart of the East African Rift, the Adama Wind Power Project stands tall with its impressive 80-meter-high white turbines. The project, built by Chinese companies, is a landmark in the partnership between China and African countries.

Since they started operating in May 2015, the wind turbines have been a vital source of power for about 600,000 households. They have helped ease Ethiopia’s power shortages, reduced the need for diesel generators and supported economic growth. Around 2,100 local jobs were created and several universities are involved in training and maintenance. This hands-on experience has prepared many for future roles in Ethiopia’s wind energy sector.

Adama city has also seen significant growth, with its population rising from 324,000 in 2015 to over 480,000 in 2023. Improved infrastructure and investment have attracted businesses from various countries, leading to rapid changes in the city’s landscape. For nearby villagers, improvements in transportation, reliable electricity, and enhanced access to education and healthcare have greatly elevated their quality of life.

Chinese firms have brought advanced green technology to Ethiopia, helping the government meet its renewable energy goals. And the collaboration has also contributed to a green transformation and the global fight against climate change.

China and African countries have enjoyed a friendship since World War II, and recent years have seen increasing collaboration through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). From railways and roads to wind farms and power stations, as well as schools and hospitals, China-assisted infrastructure projects have supported African economic development across the continent.

The Addis Ababa–Djibouti railway, a transport artery connecting Ethiopia and Djibouti, for example, has greatly cut travel times, reduced logistics cost and boosted local economic growth. To date, the railway has transported 680,000 passengers and 9.5 million tonnes of cargo, with an average annual growth rate of 39 percent in revenue.

According to the white paper “China and Africa in the New Era: A Partnership of Equals” released by China’s State Council in 2021, since the establishment of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2000, Chinese companies have helped African countries build or upgrade more than 10,000 km of railways, nearly 100,000 km of highways, roughly 1,000 bridges, almost 100 ports, and 66,000 km of power transmission and distribution.

Closer economic and trade ties

Aside from BRI projects, China and African countries have also developed closer economic and trade ties with ever-increasing trade volume, diversified commodities and services. China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years. Data from China’s General Administration of Customs showed that China–Africa trade reached a record high of $282.1 billion in 2023, up 1.5 percent year on year, and trade between China and Africa rose 5.5 percent year on year to 1.19 trillion yuan (about $166.6 billion) between January and July.

According to Sang Baichuan, dean of the Institute of International Economy at China’s University of International Business and Economics, China–Africa trade has grown rapidly as a result of win-win cooperation. He said that the Chinese economy and the economies of African countries are highly complementary, as China possesses mature and applicable technologies, equipment, and sufficient capital, while African countries have significant advantages in terms of manpower and natural resources.

“Strengthening trade ties between China and Africa is beneficial in leveraging their respective advantages and vast markets, achieving mutual benefits, and win-win development,” said Sang.

Diane Sayinzoga, a senior official with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), also spoke highly of the China–Africa trade partnership, saying it has facilitated major infrastructure projects that are crucial for the economic integration and growth of the African continent.

She added that China’s assistance is also aligned with UNCTAD’s goals of promoting Africa’s sustainable development by enhancing its manufacturing capacities, increasing trade opportunities, fostering economic diversification, and integrating African countries into the global value chain.

Beijing is set to hold the 2024 FOCAC Summit from September 4 to 6. Experts say the forum will be a crucial opportunity for China and Africa to deepen their economic and trade relationships, achieving mutual benefits and advancing shared development goals.

“FOCAC has led to numerous agreements on investment, trade and development projects between China and African countries to achieve shared development goals, which are perfectly in line with UNCTAD’s mission,” Sayinzoga said.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-08-30/China-Africa-set-to-embrace-closer-economic-trade-ties-at-FOCAC-1wuF1bzTjVe/p.html

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Fintech PR

Apt.Residential Selects Yardi’s Technology to Support BTR Projects

Published

3 hours ago

September 18, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

apt.residential-selects-yardi’s-technology-to-support-btr-projects

Australian property developer and operator to utilise innovative cloud platform for construction and investment accounting

SYDNEY, Sept. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Apt.Residential, an owner, developer and operator of residential properties in Australia, has chosen Yardi’s single connected platform to support growth, connect teams and manage capex projects and build.

With Yardi®, Apt.Residential can manage its funds and simplify complex financial processes, mitigate risk and deliver real-time insights into projects. The platform provides more visibility from investor to asset and delivers enhanced and accurate reporting. The company can access live data for costing, expenses, and revenue on all projects, from ground-up development to single-unit improvements and will allow Apt.Residential to grow the volume of units within BTR once they have operational units.

“We wanted to find the best platform for BTR that would support growth, streamline management of capex projects and handle our complex accounting,” said Michael Hogg, co-founder & head of operations for Apt.Residential. “Yardi’s single integrated platform was the best solution as it ensures our team can connect on one system and not worry about integrations or using multiple platforms.”

“We’re excited to work with Apt.Residential and support its growth as the company expands its BTR projects,” said Neal Gemassmer, vice president and general manager for Yardi. “Our connected platform will help Apt.Residential enhance communication and set them up so they’re ready to operate once development has completed.”

See how Yardi’s end-to-end technology can help drive your digitalisation strategies.

About Apt.Residential
Apt.Residential is a leading vertically integrated owner, developer, and operator of residential properties in Australia backed by global institutional capital. The company develops residential communities where wellbeing and connectedness come first. Its human-centric approach allows Apt.Residential to shape places for people who crave comfort, community, and elevated living. For more information, please visit aptresidential.au.

About Yardi

Celebrating its 40-year anniversary in 2024, Yardi® develops industry-leading software for all types and sizes of real estate companies across the world. With over 9,500 employees, Yardi is working with our clients to drive significant innovation in the real estate industry. For more information on how Yardi is Energised for Tomorrow, visit yardi.com.au.

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Fintech PR

NewCo Capital Group Continues Global Expansion as 2024 Milestones Set The Stage for an Ambitious Q4

Published

3 hours ago

September 18, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

newco-capital-group-continues-global-expansion-as-2024-milestones-set-the-stage-for-an-ambitious-q4

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As Q4 fast approaches, NewCo Capital Group (“NewCo”) and Australia-based Bizcap are finalizing year-end initiatives to strategically position both companies for an ambitious expansion in 2025.

Both companies have celebrated a highly successful 2024, marked by remarkable and accelerated growth. This momentum has been driven by Bizcap’s unique Line of Credit product, NewCo’s introduction of their “Line of Capital” product and the launch of NewCo’s new mobile app. CEO Albert Gahfi emphasized the importance of closing 2024 on a high note to set the stage for future growth. “We’ve had an exceptional year so far, but our focus is on what comes next. We’re building the foundation for 2025 and beyond, ensuring that NewCo and Bizcap are positioned for continued global expansion.”

The plan for Q4 includes deepening their presence in existing markets while making calculated moves into new territories, including Singapore, Germany, and Luxembourg. “There are new opportunities in emerging markets that are currently underserved, where we believe we can make a significant impact. As a result, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for SMB financing globally.”

By reinforcing their operational and technological infrastructure, the companies are preparing to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global financing landscape. “2024 has been a year of strong growth, but we’re not stopping here,” Gahfi said. “We are focused on delivering innovative financing solutions that not only meet the needs of today but also anticipate the demands of tomorrow. As we head into 2025, we’re ready to expand our reach and provide even more businesses with the capital they need.”

Part of a multinational collaboration, NewCo and Bizcap have successfully deployed over $1.5 billion to over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Gahfi commented, “We’re moving capital faster and more effectively than any other sector and our clients are benefiting from that growth.”

NewCo’s strength lies in its ability to adapt quickly, using a unique mix of proprietary technology, nuanced underwriting, and an experienced risk management team. The companies’ hybrid approach is challenging outdated financing models, making NewCo a preferred partner for SMBs looking for custom capital solutions that truly fit their needs.

“We’re not just growing; we’re leading,” Gahfi added. “As we expand globally, our goal remains the same—helping small businesses scale, create jobs, and thrive.”

With a clear strategy and a relentless focus on delivering value, NewCo Capital Group is primed to deepen its market influence and capitalize on emerging opportunities. As the company prepares for its next wave of market entries, Q4 will serve as a pivotal launchpad for an even more ambitious 2025, setting the stage for continued growth and global leadership.

For more information, visit www.NewCoCapitalGroup.com.

Contact:

NewCo Capital Group
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.NewCoCapitalGroup.com

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Fintech PR

Zulu Ecosystems and Severn Trent Water secure Innovate UK funding to pioneer catchment-scale Nature-based Solutions

Published

5 hours ago

September 18, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

Partnership aims to develop innovative funding model for nature-based solutions that enhance water resilience in the Idle and Torne catchment, a priority area for environmental improvement
Project will aggregate supply and demand for ecosystem services across the 1,200km²catchment, benefiting both nature and local communities
Led by Zulu Ecosystems, the collaboration seeks to accelerate private investment in nature recovery while addressing critical water challenges

LONDON, Sept. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Zulu Ecosystems and Severn Trent Water have been awarded funding from Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, for a £580,000 project to develop a groundbreaking catchment system operator model for unlocking private investment in nature. The project aims to enhance water resilience and deliver multiple benefits for both nature and local communities in the Idle and Torne River catchment.

The Idle and Torne catchment, identified as a priority catchment by the Environment Agency, faces significant challenges including drought risk, flood vulnerability, and water quality issues. Approximately 60% of water bodies in the catchment currently fail to meet good ecological status. However, the area also presents substantial opportunities for nature recovery, with potential to restore over 5,000 hectares of priority habitats and significantly improve water resources management.

This innovative partnership will leverage Zulu Ecosystems’ cutting-edge natural capital assessment capabilities and Severn Trent Water’s expertise in water management to create a scalable approach for funding and delivering nature-based solutions. The project will focus on interventions such as woodland creation, wetland restoration, and riparian woodland to address the catchment’s pressing environmental challenges. The project will engage local stakeholders, including farmers, landowners, and community groups, to ensure that interventions reflect local needs and knowledge.

Ed Asseily, CEO of Zulu Ecosystems, said:

“This funding from Innovate UK is a game-changer for how we approach local nature recovery and water resilience. By developing a catchment-scale model that aggregates both the supply of and demand for ecosystem services, we can accelerate the flow of private capital into nature-based solutions.”

Severn Trent Water will play a key role as the project’s System Operator, strategically coordinating plans and aligning stakeholder priorities to maximise outcomes for water services and the environment.

Richard Smith, Strategic Asset Planning Manager at Severn Trent Water, commented:

“We’re excited to partner with Zulu Ecosystems on this transformative project. By adopting a system operator approach, we can ensure that investments in nature-based solutions deliver the greatest possible benefits for our customers, local communities, and the environment.”

This project has been funded by Innovate UK as part of the ‘Integrating Finance and Biodiversity for a Nature Positive Future’ programme, a joint initiative between the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and Innovate UK. This £7 million programme aims to develop solutions that embed the values of biodiversity into financial decision-making.

By bridging the gap between nature recovery and water resilience, this project has the potential to create a replicable model for sustainable landscape management across the UK. Innovate UK’s support underscores the national significance of developing new approaches to environmental management that can deliver multiple benefits, including improved water security, enhanced biodiversity, climate resilience, and potential new income streams for landowners.

Over the next 9 months, the project team will work closely with local stakeholders to identify priority interventions and develop a portfolio of investable nature-based solutions. The project aims to demonstrate how multi-stakeholder nature-based projects can be developed, funded, and delivered at catchment-scale to address climate adaptation and reverse biodiversity loss. Findings will be published to help scale similar initiatives across the UK and beyond.

For more information, please contact:
[email protected]
[email protected]

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