Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Mar 5, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) -�FinHarbor, a modular financial infrastructure provider, has completed the core phase of a hybrid neobank platform for Asterium � a licensed fintech project in Uzbekistan that combines traditional banking with digital asset services under a single regulated framework.Why Uzbekistan - Uzbekistan is actively building a regulated environment for digital assets. The country has introduced a national distributed ledger system (Mirasmanda) and a state-backed digital asset (HUMO), supervised by the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP). For infrastructure providers, this creates a rare opportunity: a market where crypto and banking can coexist within a clear legal perimeter.Asterium's project is designed to operate fully within this framework.What Was Deployed - FinHarbor adapted its microservices-based platform to the requirements of the Uzbek market and Asterium's business model. The core deployment covers three key layers:Banking infrastructure � management of fiat accounts, issuance of physical and virtual bank cards (VISA, MasterCard, HUMO), and integration with local processing systems.Digital asset infrastructure � crypto account management, integration with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tron networks, as well as native connection to Uzbekistan's Mirasmanda ledger for HUMO asset support.Compliance and exchange � a unified KYC/KYB/AML/KYT module aligned with local and international standards, integration with global AML/KYT providers, and multiple exchange models including fiat-to-crypto, crypto-to-fiat, and crypto-to-crypto conversions with card-based ramp-in and ramp-off.The result is a single platform where users can hold bank accounts and crypto wallets, exchange assets, and use cards � all within a regulated environment.How the Partnership Works - FinHarbor operates as Asterium's strategic technology partner, not just a software vendor. A dedicated implementation team supports the platform on an ongoing basis, managing feature rollouts and infrastructure expansion."This project required deep architectural customization � from integrating with a national blockchain system to building compliance workflows that satisfy both local regulators and international standards," said Ilya Podoynitsyn, CEO of FinHarbor. "The core phase is complete, and we are already scaling the platform with new products and business use cases."��What's Next - With the core infrastructure live, FinHarbor and Asterium are moving into the next stage: launching consumer-facing products and expanding the platform's functionality to support additional business lines built on the deployed stack.About FinHarborFinHarbor provides modular technology infrastructure for launching compliant financial products � from wallets and neobanks to crypto ramps and OTC desks. The platform supports fiat, crypto, and hybrid business models, with ISO/PCI DSS-certified architecture and deployment options across Europe, MENA, and CIS markets.Social LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finharbor/Blog: https://www.finharbor.com/blog�Media contactBrand: FinHarborContact: Media teamWebsite: https://www.finharbor.com/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio, Mar 4, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Formerra, LLC ("Formerra"), a leading distributor of engineered thermoplastic resins, additives, elastomers, and other specialty materials, today announced the appointment of Tom Kelly as Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"). A seasoned executive with over 30 years of specialty and engineered materials experience, Tom is known for leading teams to drive differentiated growth and building high-performing organizations set up for long-term success. The former CEO, Cathy Dodd, will stay on as Special Advisor to the Board and will remain an investor in the Company.Tom brings extensive commercial, supply chain, and distribution experience with a strong background in scaling global enterprises in the engineered materials sector. After previous roles at Cabot Microelectronics and Chemtura, Tom's most recent role was Senior Vice President of Engineered Materials at Celanese, where he led key commercial and operational initiatives across engineered polymers and specialty segments. He brings a strong blend of leadership, industry insight, and supply-chain expertise to his new role as CEO of Formerra."Formerra has built a tremendous reputation as a technical selling organization and for putting customers first, supported by exceptional people and supplier partners in the engineered materials ecosystem," said Tom Kelly. "I'm excited about the opportunity to build on its strengths and accelerate capabilities in new geographies and adjacent materials. We will continue investing in our people, distribution network, and in our product line card to strengthen Formerra's competitive position globally."About FormerraFormerra, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is a leading distributor of engineered thermoplastic resins, additives, elastomers, and other specialty materials. Formerra supports leading blue-chip customers and suppliers with its extensive specialty materials portfolio and value-added combination of commercial and technical expertise, global market knowledge, and industry-leading logistics and service capabilities. Formerra offers highly specialized technical, processing, design and regulatory support for critical end market applications in the healthcare, consumer, industrial and mobility markets. Formerra operates an asset-light network of 37 warehouses and 21 bulk transfer stations located in North America, Central America, Europe, and Asia.Media ContactJackie MorrisMarketing Communications Manager, Formerrajackie.morris@formerra.com+1 630-972-3144SOURCE: Formerra Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, March 4, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 42nd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opens today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and runs for five consecutive days until 8 March. It is held concurrently with the 12th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show which opened on Monday (2 March) at AsiaWorld-Expo and concludes on 6 March. The two shows bring together some 4,000 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regions, forming the world’s largest one-stop jewellery marketplace.Jenny Koo, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “Alongside the expanded Hall of Fame, the show will feature the debut of the Hard Pure Gold Pavilion and the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Pavilion. Furthermore, Uzbekistan is participating for the first time with a delegation of 10 companies, showcasing a wide range of gold jewellery. Through diversified exhibit profiles, we aim to create more collaboration opportunities for the industry and reinforce Hong Kong’s status as a global jewellery trading hub.”Kent Wong, Chairman of the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show Fair Organising Committee, said: “Hong Kong is an international trade and sourcing centre and our twin jewellery shows play a pivotal role. Continuing the successful ‘Two Shows, Two Venues’ format, the fairs attract global jewellery professionals for sourcing and networking, helping the industry capture the latest global market trends.”International brands converge, key zones expandAt the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, the Hall of Fame has expanded by over 40%, welcoming more renowned international jewellery brands. Among them, Turkish exhibitor Hosgor Kuyumculuk Mucevherat Ticaret Limited Sirketi (Booth: CEC 3B-D15) presents a 35.5-carat diamond necklace that combines exquisite craftsmanship with brilliant radiance. Another highlight is the Hall of Extraordinary, which features exhibitors such as Hong Kong’s Glamour Fine Jewelry Enterprise Company (Booth: CEC GH-C16), showcasing a bracelet featuring Colombian emeralds paired with diamonds and rubies in a radiant and luxurious style.New pavilions highlight oriental aestheticsWith hard pure gold technologies gaining popularity in the Chinese Mainland, the Hard Pure Gold Pavilion (Booth: CEC 3E-F02) features 11 exhibitors organised by the World Gold Council. The pavilion showcases innovative techniques that produce harder, lighter and brighter gold pieces capable of setting a variety of gemstones. Also, the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Pavilion highlights crossover craftsmanship between jewellery setting and watchmaking.The fairs also feature several events celebrating oriental aesthetics. Today, the Jewellers’ and Goldsmiths’ Association of Hong Kong Limited presented the awards for the Hong Kong International Fashion Chuk Kam Jewellery Design Competition. The competition encourages designers to create culturally rich and commercially viable gold jewellery for the ASEAN and the Middle East markets. Tomorrow (5 March) will see the awards presentation of the inaugural International Fei Cui Jewellery Design Competition, organised by the Hong Kong Jade Association, honouring designers who skilfully blend jadeite with global cultural elements.Antique treasures and cutting-edge designAntique jewellery remains highly sought-after by collectors and high-end customers for its historical value and craftsmanship. The Antique & Vintage Jewellery Galleria presents an array of rare pieces, including a bi-colour enamel diamond piece from World Coins Co., Ltd. (Booth: CEC CH-N12), with a history spanning over a century. Design pieces are equally captivating, the Designer Galleria welcomes 10 Korean designers this year. Together with the Young Jewellery Designer Arena, participated by the Asia Pacific Creator Association and the Asia Jewelry Culture Design and Crafts Association, about 50 designer exhibitors will showcase their diverse creativities in the fairground.The HKTDC continues to nurture local talents in the jewellery industry. In partnership with the Jewellers’ and Goldsmiths’ Association of Hong Kong Limited, Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association, Hong Kong Jewelry Manufacturers’ Association, and Diamond Federation of Hong Kong, the 27th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition returns under the theme “Pure Elegance – Natural Beauty”, offering a stage for local professional designers and students. The awards ceremony will be held tomorrow (5 March) at the HKCEC, with winning pieces on display to demonstrate innovative design.E-commerce and technology empower industry growthTo help exhibitors expand into the Chinese Mainland market and develop their online sales channels, the fairs continue the collaboration with Taobao Tmall. For the first time, the fairs also welcome Douyin, partnering with influencers and KOLs for on-site live streaming to promote exhibitors’ products. On 7 March, a seminar will feature experts discussing the latest online marketing trends and tactics.Another seminar on 5 March will explore how AI and new technologies enhance competitiveness, optimise production, and drive product innovation in the jewellery industry.Engaging events to connect and inspireA diverse lineup of events will be held to foster industry dialogue. These include a seminar by Dr Jack Ogden, a distinguished British historian and jewellery authority, who will analyse the evolution of jewellery craftsmanship and changing aesthetic tastes throughout history. The jewellery parades will highlight themes such as intangible cultural heritage jewellery, curated selections from the Antique & Vintage Jewellery Galleria, as well as highlights from the Hall of Extraordinary, Designer Galleria, and gold jewellery.Full list of the winning entries from Hong Kong International Fashion Chuk Kam Jewellery Design Competition: https://bit.ly/46B5edLPhoto download: https://bit.ly/46GadtLThe 42nd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show opens today at the HKCEC, alongside the 12th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show at AWE, together gathering around 4,000 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regionsAnthony Lam, Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries (front row, centre); Bernard Chan, Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (front row, fifth right); Sophia Chong, Executive Director of the HKTDC (front row, fifth left); Kent Wong, Chairman of the HKTDC twin jewellery shows’ Fair Organising Committee (front row, fourth right); Winston Chow, Chairman of the HKTDC Jewellery Advisory Committee (front row, fourth left), and other officiating guests attended today’s networking receptionThe Hall of Fame has expanded by over 40% this year, featuring more international brandsThe World Gold Council debuts the Hard Pure Gold Pavilion, featuring 11 exhibitors to showcase innovative hard pure gold craftsmanship to international buyersThe Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Pavilion makes its first appearance, exhibiting luxury timepieces that integrate jewellery setting craftsmanshipShenzhen Meifei Precious Metals Co Ltd (Booth: CEC 3E-E02) presents 24K gold necklaces themed around oriental palatial and modern Chinese styles, employing six traditional gold techniquesHong Kong exhibitor Present Watch & Jewelry (Booth: CEC 1CON-019) showcases a diamond wristwatch inspired by the Northern Song masterpiece “Ode to the Lotus”, with a dial crafted to evoke a lotus pondTurkish brand Zen Diamond (Booth: CEC 3B-C12), which appointed global celebrity Jennifer Lopez as its ambassador in 2025, presents a series of diamond pieces at the showHong Kong designer Austy Lee (Booth: CEC 1EF32) launches a zebra-inspired-bangle for the Year of the HorseWinners of the Hong Kong International Fashion Chuk Kam Jewellery Design Competition pictured at the award ceremony with distinguished guestsFair detailsHong Kong International Jewellery ShowDateOpening hours4 March (Wednesday)10:30am to 6:30pm5-7 March (Thursday to Saturday)10am to 6:30pm8 March (Friday)10am to 5:30pmVenueHong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan ChaiPress registration and Media CentreMedia representatives can register at the entrance of HKCEC Hall 1D Concourse, or at the HKTDC Media Centre (G/F, Expo Drive Entrance, HKCEC) by presenting a business card or media identification.* Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl ShowDateOpening hours2 March (Monday)10:30am to 6:30pm3-5 March (Tuesday to Thursday)10am to 6:30pm6 March (Friday)10am to 5:30pmVenueAsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, Hong KongPress registration and Media CentreMedia representatives can register at the entrance of AsiaWorld-Expo’s East Lobby (Next to Hall 5) or at the Media Centre (Room 201C, 2/F) by presenting a business card or media identification.** For security reasons, all media will be required to present a name card and identity card (or passport) for press registration. Individuals with a valid press pass will be required to present their identity card (or passport) again at the entrance to the exhibition halls for identity verification. Please allow sufficient time for registration and admission.Websites Hong Kong International Jewellery ShowHong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl ShowWebsitehttp://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.comhttp://hkdgp.hktdc.comActivity listhttps://www.hktdc.com/event/hkjewellery/en/intelligence-hubhttps://www.hktdc.com/event/hkdgp/en/intelligence-hubShuttle bus arrangementshttps://www.hktdc.com/event/hkjewellery/en/travel-to-fairground-hkcechttps://www.hktdc.com/event/hkdgp/en/travel-to-fairground-aweHKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Winnie KanTel: (852) 2584 4055Email: winnie.wy.kan@hktdc.orgKaty WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgJane CheungTel: (852) 2584 4137Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

LONDON, Mar 4, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - BASIS has announced a significant acceleration in platform development following its recent $35 million Pre-Series A capital raise. The funding enables parent company Base58 Labs to advance the commercial integration of its proprietary Base58 Hyper-Latency Engine (BHLE) into the BASIS staking infrastructure.BHLE, developed over multiple years within institutional high-frequency trading (HFT) research environments, is now transitioning from research phase into structured platform deployment. The engine is designed to enhance execution efficiency, reduce latency-related inefficiencies, and optimise liquidity management across fragmented digital asset markets.Industry observers note that the integration of institutional-grade execution frameworks into a staking infrastructure model represents a strategic evolution within the broader digital asset ecosystem. While detailed technical specifications remain confidential, Base58 Labs confirmed that BHLE will serve as a core execution layer within the BASIS architecture.In parallel with the technical acceleration, Base58 Labs has initiated a large-scale recruitment programme across Europe and the United Kingdom. The company is onboarding quantitative engineers, blockchain systems architects, and regulatory compliance specialists, all of whom will focus exclusively on BASIS platform development and infrastructure scaling.“Our objective is to combine years of proprietary research with expanded operational capacity,” a company spokesperson stated. “The recent capital raise enables us to consolidate technical, intellectual, and human resources around a single mission: delivering a high-performance staking infrastructure aligned with institutional standards.”BASIS is also being developed with regulatory alignment in mind, including adherence to emerging European frameworks such as MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets). The platform aims to provide a structurally robust environment for both institutional and retail participants.With liquidity reserves strengthened and integration milestones progressing, BASIS remains on track for an official launch in the second half of 2026.About Base58 LabsBase58 Labs is a London-based digital infrastructure company specialising in high-performance execution technologies and blockchain optimisation systems. Learn more: https://base58labs.com/Media ContactBase58 Labs PR TeamEmail: info@base58labs.comBASIS Official Website: https://basis.pro/Base58 Labs Official Website: https://base58labs.com/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

BANGKOK, Mar 4, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Thailand has launched a new phase in its national research and innovation strategy with the introduction of the Thailand RISE Fund, a rebranded national research funding initiative aimed at accelerating the transition from academic research to real-world economic and social impact.The initiative was highlighted at the Thailand RISE Fund Forum: RISE UP THAILAND, hosted in collaboration with Chulalongkorn University. The national forum brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and innovation stakeholders to explore how Thailand can strengthen its position in the global innovation economy.From Research Output to Real-World ImpactThailand’s research performance has expanded significantly over the past decade, but national leaders say the country’s next challenge is ensuring that research delivers tangible benefits.Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University, emphasized the importance of translating knowledge into national progress. “A country advances not simply because it produces knowledge, but because it can transform knowledge into a coordinated system that connects policy, research, innovation, and industry,” he said.He added that universities must play a strategic role in national development. “Our goal is to move research beyond the laboratory and into real-world applications that deliver measurable economic and social benefits while strengthening Thailand’s long-term competitiveness.”Building a National Innovation SystemNational research leaders stressed that Thailand’s science and innovation system must operate with clearer direction and stronger coordination.Professor Dr. Sompong Klaynongsruang, President of Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), said collaboration across sectors is essential. “The development of Thailand’s science, research and innovation system must be driven systematically—from strategic policy and targeted funding to the practical use of research outcomes in the economy and society.”She noted that cooperation among universities, government agencies, and the private sector will be key to achieving long-term impact. “When all sectors move forward together, research will not only generate knowledge but also create meaningful national transformation.”More Than a RebrandingThe transition to the Thailand RISE Fund represents a strategic shift in how Thailand supports research and innovation.Asst. Professor Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun, Chairman of Thailand RISE Fund Strategic Communications Subcommittee, said the initiative reflects a new national priority. “Thailand has significantly increased its research output over the past decade, but the key challenge today is not quantity. It is how research creates economic and social value.”He explained that the Thailand RISE Fund is designed to bridge the gap between research and industry. “Thailand RISE Fund is intended to serve as a systemic intermediary, linking research to real economic needs and focusing on proof of impact rather than publication numbers.”Four Pillars of the RISE FrameworkThe Thailand RISE Fund operates under a strategic framework built on four pillars:ResearchInnovationScience ExcellenceEcosystemThe ecosystem pillar emphasizes partnerships among universities, businesses, government agencies, and communities to support a comprehensive innovation economy.Expanding Opportunities NationwideThe Thailand RISE Fund is also expanding engagement across Thailand to ensure broader participation in the innovation system. Regional forums and outreach activities are designed to help researchers and entrepreneurs develop collaborative projects aligned with local economic strengths. This approach reflects a shift from centralized funding toward a more inclusive and distributed innovation ecosystem.Research for National DevelopmentThe Thailand RISE Fund aims to transform the role of research in Thailand’s development strategy. “Our vision is to move Thai research from ‘research for journals’ to ‘research for the nation,’” Dr. Ake said.By focusing on measurable impact and long-term value creation, the initiative seeks to strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness while supporting sustainable economic and social development.For more information, please contact pr@tsri.or.th#ThailandRiseFund Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com