Sunday, June 9, 2024

VCI Global boost for secure messaging


VCI Global Limited has launched a consumer version of a military-grade secure messenger platform, currently serving European governments and businesses, called Socializer.

Chief AI Officer at VCI Global, Pascal Lauria said Socializer aimed to protect data privacy and facilitate digital asset storage.

“This initiative, in collaboration with a Switzerland-based provider, includes the development of a secure digital asset wallet, extending robust security features to consumers worldwide,” Mr Lauria said.

“Socializer stands out with its military-grade end-to-end encryption, ensuring that user communications and media remain private and secure.”

He said a highlight of the platform was its advanced facial recognition technology that instantly concealed chats with ‘private status’ contacts when someone other than the user was looking at the phone, adding an extra layer of privacy.

“In addition to secured messaging, Socializer offers comprehensive media management tools, including secure local file storage, editing tools for documents and photos, document signing, and a secure back-up system,” Mr Lauria said.

“The platform also integrates a decentralised wallet, enabling users to store, swap, receive, and transfer multiple fiat and crypto-currencies seamlessly and globally.”

Group Executive Chair, Victor Hoo said Socializer was a pivotal addition to VCI Global’s portfolio “reflecting our commitment to innovation and security”.

“This platform not only safeguards user privacy, it also expands our reach across various markets and enhances our service offerings in fintech and cyber-security,” Mr Hoo (pictured) said.  

The beta version of Socializer will be available for download on Android and Apple App Stores beginning in July, with the launch of the full version expected in October.

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Manufacturers unhappy with online ordering

A survey conducted by specialist business-to-business platform, Sana Commerce has revealed that while 77 per cent of manufacturing buyers shop online three or more times per week, persistent order errors have left many unhappy with the process.

Chief Executive of Sanna Commerce, Sebastiaan Verhaar said in the wake of the findings, it was clear that the manufacturing sector's e-commerce platforms were not meeting the critical needs of their buyers.

“As manufacturing continues to push forward with digital transformation, accuracy and precision in e-commerce solutions are not just nice-to-have features, but indispensable assets,” Mr Verhaar said.

“More than any other, the manufacturing industry requires efficiency and resilience to thrive amidst constant challenges. This report underscores advanced technology's pivotal role in navigating these challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth and innovation.”

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Hope of new treatment for kidney cancer

Scientists at the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia have developed a new antibody treatment for advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a deadly form of kidney cancer with few treatment options.

The researchers have built on existing antibody therapies, known as bispecific T cell engagers to develop new and improved recombinant and synthetic DNA versions of therapeutic antibodies that show promise in pre-clinical models as a potent, long-lasting treatment against ccRCC.

The Wistar scientists also demonstrated that the more potent therapy could be delivered using synthetic DNA, which allows therapeutic production directly in patients.

First author of the study, Ryan O’Connell said the big takeaway from the project was that it could lead to a promising new therapy for kidney cancer.

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Kaleris improves Thai port’s sustainability

Thailand’s Kerry Siam Seaport has announced a series of operational improvements that have achieved significant improvements in the reduction of carbon emissions.

A partnership with Kaleris, a provider of supply chain technology solutions, including Navis Terminal Operating Systems, has reduced truck driving distances by 20 per cent and container rehandles by 10 per cent.

The Kaleris Optimisation Services team worked closely with the port to identify improvements in yard strategy, terminal truck operations, and vessel planning.

Chief Operating Officer at Kaleris, Molly Harrison said the company had devised creative solutions to address the port’s distinct challenges, making it well positioned to continue delivering the best service to its customers.

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Deriv builds quality of life in Paraguay

Online trading platform, Deriv is marking its 25th anniversary by launching a series of initiatives aimed at driving meaningful social betterment.

It has partnered with TECHO, a youth organisation in Paraguay, to provide housing to under-served communities in the San Francisco Settlement, just outside AsunciĆ³n.

Deriv is involved in the construction of 10 new houses for families in dire need. The initial planning phase, now complete, saw Deriv lead on the timeline for construction of the houses as well as identifying communities, families most in need, and the allocation of resources.

In addition to housing, Deriv is committed to improving the community's overall quality of life and future prosperity. Initiatives include providing access to technology like laptops, hosting community forums, and offering mentorship and training programs.

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LINK business broker opens in Cairns

LINK Business Brokers is expanding its presence in Australia with a new North Queensland office, based in Cairns.

The office, led by father-and-son team Wim and Marc Janssen, aims to leverage the growing market for business brokerage in the region, enhance economic development, and offer expert brokerage services.

Wim Janssen has more than two decades of experience in the business broking industry. Together with Marc, he has been instrumental in expanding the brokerage’s footprint across Regional Queensland.

Marc Janssen said LINK’s expansion recognised that the use of business brokerages in Australia had surged. “Business owners now recognise the value of seeking professional advice and speciality services when the time comes to exit,” he said.

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Freshworks’ acquisition enhances IT service

Software provider Freshworks has acquired Device42, a company that provides up-to-date views of assets across an organisation’s entire IT infrastructure.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone for California-based Freshworks, reinforcing its commitment to empowering IT teams with robust IT asset management solutions.

Chief Executive, Dennis Woodside said in today’s ever-changing digital world, IT teams played a major role in delivering business value, with speed and responsiveness being critical for success.

“Upon the integration of Freshworks and Device42 solutions, customers will be able to benefit from a unified platform that delivers enhanced IT service management and IT asset management software capabilities,” Mr Woodside said.

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Duck Creek names new Asia-Pacific GM

Sydney-based Duck Creek Technologies, a specialist in intelligent solutions, for the insurance industry, has appointed Christian Erickson as General Manager for the Asia-Pacific region.

In this role, Mr Erickson, a specialist in enterprise software and professional services, will oversee a new phase of investment in the region and further strengthen the deep relationships with existing customers and partners.

He joins Duck Creek from digital transformation consultant, Versent, where he was General Manager of Growth, collaborating with top public and private sector companies in Australia.

Previously, Mr Erickson held leadership positions at Cognizant, overseeing the banking, financial services, and insurance team, and at Accenture, as part of the financial services leadership team.

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Double award for Canadian explorer

Canadian petroleum and gas explorer, Valeura Energy has been named Upstream Company of the Year, and Chief Executive, Sean Guest, Executive of the Year, at the Asia-Pacific Energy Capital Assembly and Awards Dinner in Singapore.

Mr Guest said being named Upstream Company of the Year “energises us to continue pursuing our objectives with passion, for all stakeholders who stand to benefit from our ongoing success”. 

“I am also humbled to have been selected as Executive of the Year and grateful to our exceptional team of professionals, who have made both of these awards possible," Mr Guest said.

An occasional round-up of international business stories

 

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