by | Dec 6, 2024 | Business
Sand Monitoring Services Ltd (SMS) proudly marks a double milestone this year: 20 years of successful operations in the UK and 10 years since the establishment of its Malaysian subsidiary, SMS Sand Management Services Sdn Bhd.
Andrew Kinsler, Operations Director, reflects on this significant achievement:
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to our team’s resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence over the years. We began with a focus on sand management and have since expanded our services to include not only our core sand and corrosion instruments but also flow assurance technologies, gas analysers, and sampling solutions.”
Since its inception, SMS has built strong partnerships with industry leaders and institutions, enabling the company to continuously enhance its technology and services. These advancements have allowed SMS to address the diverse and complex needs of its clients in over 23 countries, including the North Sea, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The company serves a broad client base comprising International Oil Companies (IOCs), National Oil Companies (NOCs), and Well Service Companies.
“The journey has not always been easy,” Andrew adds, “but thanks to our team’s dedication and our clients’ trust, we have achieved remarkable progress. Their support has been crucial, and we are deeply grateful for the partnerships we’ve built along the way.”
Looking ahead, SMS is committed to supporting the energy transition through cutting-edge technology projects and continued investment in client-centric solutions. The company is eager to explore new opportunities in other market sectors while maintaining its dedication to delivering value across the energy industries.
Visit www.smsintegrity.com for more details about SMS.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 6, 2024 | Business
SARIAYA, QUEZON – PHILIPPINES – Universal Robina Corp. (URC), one of the country’s largest food and beverage firms, is set to open a new mill in Sariaya town, in Quezon Province to boost its production of quality flour further.
Committed To Nourishing The Nation.
With the launch of URC Flour’s newest flour plant, the company is helping lay a solid foundation for advancing food production and security in the country. L-R: Conrado M. Estrella III, Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of Department of Agriculture, Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., President Republic of the Philippines, Lance Gokongwei, Chairman Universal Robina Corporation, Irwin C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Robina Corporation, Ellison Dean C. Lee, Managing Director, Universal Robina Corporation- Flour Division.
“We are seeing an ever-growing demand for our products. This new flour mill will allow us to meet that demand, maintain the quality of our products, and keep our price point competitive,” said Irwin C. Lee, URC President & CEO.
The new facility will use a fully automated flour-milling technology that fully integrates the roller mill’s control and monitoring system in the main station, a first in the Philippines.
Pressing Forward To A Brighter Future.
The URC Flour Sariaya Plant is now operational, which will bring the company’s total milling capacity to over 104,100 bags daily. L-R: Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, Irwin C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Robina Corporation, Lance Gokongwei, Chairman Universal Robina Corporation, Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of Department of Agriculture and Conrado M. Estrella III, Secretary of Department of Agrarian Reform.
“This Php 5.4 billion investment is an affirmation of our confidence in our economy and the conducive investment climate in our country. It is also a concrete manifestation of our steadfast support in improving our nation’s food security, aligned to the priorities of His Excellency President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel to enhance agricultural productivity and strengthen the grain sector,” said Lance Y. Gokongwei, Chairman Universal Robina Corporation. “With the launch of this new flour mill, we are helping lay a solid foundation in advancing food production and security in our country,” added Gokongwei.
URC Flour Sariaya will also have the capability to do fully automatic packing operations, which will speed up the production process and reduce wastage.
This technology upgrade maximizes efficiency at the plant, reduces costs, and cuts URC’s carbon footprint overall. This is in line with URC’s push to reduce the amount of energy and other resources it uses to manufacture its products.
The mill sits on 10 hectares in Sariaya. When fully operational, it will provide at least 150 jobs.
Witness The Unveiling Of A New Era.
URC Flour’s investment in their new Sariaya Flour Mill brings great promise to the local community of Sariaya. Beyond its economic impact, generating jobs and creating business opportunities for suppliers and service providers. L-R: Conrado M. Estrella III, Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of Department of Agriculture, Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., President Republic of the Philippines, Lance Gokongwei, Chairman Universal Robina Corporation, Irwin C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Robina Corporation, Ellison Dean C. Lee, Managing Director, Universal Robina Corporation- Flour Division.
“URC Flour Sariaya is a testament to our unwavering dedication to innovation, quality, and growth,” said Lee. “With its enhanced technology, substantial capacity, and focus on community development, the plant is poised to become a cornerstone of URC’s progress and a catalyst for positive change in the area,” Lee added.
URC Flour is one of the Philippines’ top flour millers. It started commercial operations in 1970, with its first plant in Pasig. It opened its second plant in Davao in 1991.
About Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour Division:
URC’s Flour Division is one of the top flour milling companies in the Philippines. With plants present in Manila, Davao, and now Sariaya, Quezon. The addition of this new plant, which is URC’s largest, brings the company’s total milling capacity to an extraordinary 3,470 tons per day, which is equivalent to over 104,100 bags daily. Through its state-of-the-art flour mills and blending facilities, URC Flour Division offers customized products that cater to the specific needs of its customers.
by | Dec 6, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 6/12/2024 — Nusantara Global Network is excited to announce its latest partnership with HF Markets, aimed at providing innovative and highly beneficial trading opportunities. This strategic collaboration introduces an exclusive Rebate Program for Standard and Pro accounts, designed to enhance trading efficiency and reward traders with significant rebates.
The collaboration between Nusantara Global Network and HF Markets presents a comprehensive Rebate Program, giving traders the chance to earn rebates based on their trading activity. This program is expected to revolutionize the trading experience by offering immediate and attractive financial rewards.
“We are thrilled to partner with HF Markets and introduce this sophisticated Exclusive Rebate Program,” said the chairman of the Nusantara Global Network. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering exceptional trading opportunities and tools to our community. The Exclusive Rebate Program will empower traders to maximize their earnings while enjoying a seamless trading experience.”
The key benefits of the new Exclusive Rebate Program include:
Exclusive Rebate for Standard & Pro Accounts:
-Trade as low as 0.01 lot to earn rebates up to $67.50.
-Rebates are credited daily to the trading account at 9 AM.
-Positions held for 2 minutes or more qualify for the full rebate, while positions held for less than 2 minutes will receive half the rebate.
“We see our partnership with Nusantara Global Network as a significant milestone for HF Markets,” said HF Markets. “This Exclusive Rebate Program showcases our dedication to providing traders with innovative solutions and a superior trading experience. We are confident this program will deliver substantial value to our clients and set a new standard in the industry.”
The Exclusive Rebate Program is available for various account types, including:
Premium, Cent, and Top-Up Bonus Accounts:
-Gold: $13.50 per lot
-FX: $8.10 per lot
Pro & Zero Spread Accounts:
-Gold: $6.30 per lot
-FX: $3.60 per lot
This collaboration is part of a broader industry trend towards providing more profitable and trader-friendly solutions. By integrating HF Markets Exclusive Rebate Program, Nusantara Global Network continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing trading opportunities and supporting its clients with the latest tools and incentives.
About HF Markets
HF Markets is a leading trading broker known for its advanced trading solutions and exceptional customer support. The company provides a variety of trading services, including the Exclusive Rebate Program, designed to deliver superior trading experiences and support to traders worldwide.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Dec 6, 2024 | Business
Bitcoin surpasses $100,000, marking a historic milestone in cryptocurrency evolution. Explore key factors, challenges, and future trends shaping Bitcoin’s role in modern finance.
The world’s leading cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, has achieved an unprecedented milestone, surging past $100,000 for the first time during late trading on Wednesday. This marks a watershed moment in the evolution of digital assets, a sector increasingly intertwined with technological innovation, financial strategies, and global geopolitics.
Key Factors Behind Bitcoin’s Ascent
There are many factors about the increase in Bitcoin price today, some of them are:
1. Regulatory Optimism
Bitcoin’s recent rally has been powered by investor anticipation of clearer, more supportive regulations under the incoming administration. The creation of a cryptocurrency advisory council and the potential mainstreaming of crypto assets as part of government reserves have amplified confidence in the sector.
2. Institutional Adoption and Market Dynamics
The approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) earlier this year opened doors for institutional investors, further legitimizing Bitcoin as an asset class. With ETF holdings exceeding $100 billion, the demand for Bitcoin has surged.
Additionally, the recent “halving” event, which reduced the rate at which new Bitcoins are mined, has exacerbated supply-demand imbalances, pushing prices higher.
3. Market Sentiment and Strategic Buying
Sudden price corrections, historically a source of panic in the market, now represent buying opportunities for a growing pool of investors who view Bitcoin as a legitimate, long-term investment vehicle.
High-profile corporate acquisitions, such as MicroStrategy’s massive Bitcoin holdings worth over $40 billion, continue to anchor confidence in the digital currency.
4. Trump’s Role in Crypto Fever
Donald Trump’s presidency has become a turning point for the cryptocurrency industry. Initially a skeptic, Trump’s pivot to crypto-friendly policies has catalyzed the sector. His administration’s rhetoric and appointments signal a commitment to fostering innovation while reducing regulatory friction.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential risks of deregulation, drawing parallels to past financial crises.
Proponents, like Galaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz, argue that Bitcoin’s surge reflects a paradigm shift. Novogratz highlights the convergence of institutional adoption, advances in blockchain technology, and a clearer regulatory roadmap as transformative forces propelling Bitcoin into the financial mainstream.
Challenges on the Horizon
While Bitcoin’s record-breaking rally has been a cause for celebration, its ascent is not without challenges. The cryptocurrency’s inherent volatility, regulatory uncertainties, and environmental concerns remain significant hurdles.
1. Volatility: A Double-Edged Sword
Bitcoin’s price history is a testament to its volatility. Despite its current upward trajectory, past boom-and-bust cycles remind investors of the risks involved. Market corrections are a natural part of any financial asset’s journey, and Bitcoin is no exception.
Analysts like Josh Gilbert and Mike Novogratz caution investors to practice disciplined profit-taking, ensuring they are not overly exposed to potential downturns.
2. Regulatory Uncertainty
Regulation remains a contentious issue in the cryptocurrency space. While Trump’s administration promises a lighter regulatory touch, critics argue that unchecked growth in the crypto sector could exacerbate existing issues such as fraud, tax evasion, and market manipulation.
The nomination of Paul Atkins as SEC Chair suggests a pivot toward more industry-friendly policies, but this shift may face resistance from lawmakers and traditional financial institutions wary of Bitcoin’s disruptive potential.
Additionally, global regulatory coordination is lacking, with some countries embracing cryptocurrencies while others impose outright bans. This fragmented approach could create hurdles for Bitcoin’s seamless integration into the global financial system.
3. Environmental Concerns
Bitcoin mining, the process by which new coins are created, has long been criticized for its energy-intensive nature. With many mining operations relying on non-renewable energy sources, Bitcoin’s carbon footprint has become a growing concern.
Advocacy for cleaner energy solutions within the industry has gained momentum, and some companies are exploring renewable energy options to address these criticisms. However, whether these efforts can scale to meet Bitcoin’s increasing energy demands remains to be seen.
The Institutional Shift
Despite these challenges, Bitcoin’s growing acceptance among institutional investors marks a pivotal shift. Financial giants like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Invesco have not only legitimized Bitcoin but also opened the floodgates for broader participation.
The launch of Bitcoin ETFs has been a game-changer, providing a regulated and accessible entry point for traditional investors.
As more institutions integrate Bitcoin into their portfolios, its role as a hedge against inflation and geopolitical instability continues to strengthen. This mainstream adoption could potentially reduce volatility over time, transforming Bitcoin into a more stable asset class akin to gold.
What’s Next for Bitcoin?
Looking forward, several factors will shape Bitcoin’s trajectory:
1. Policy Changes Under the Trump Administration: Pro-crypto policies, such as tax exemptions and the establishment of a national Bitcoin reserve, could drive further adoption and investment.
2. Global Economic Conditions: Bitcoin’s appeal as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation makes it sensitive to macroeconomic trends. Rising inflation or economic instability could further boost its demand.
3. Technological Innovations: Advancements in blockchain technology and scalability solutions, such as the Bitcoin Lightning Network, could enhance Bitcoin’s functionality as a payment system and drive broader use cases.
4. Market Dynamics: Continued development of financial instruments, including futures, options, and ETFs, will likely attract more investors and deepen Bitcoin’s liquidity.
5. Public Perception and Education: As awareness and understanding of cryptocurrencies grow, Bitcoin’s adoption among retail investors could accelerate. Efforts to demystify the technology and address misconceptions will be crucial in this regard.
Conclusion
Bitcoin’s milestone is a reflection of how far cryptocurrencies have come—and how much further they could go. While risks abound, the growing institutional interest, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements point to a promising future.
Yet the road ahead will be fraught with challenges that will test Bitcoin’s ability to maintain its momentum and evolve as a cornerstone of modern finance.
As the world grapples with the implications of this digital revolution, Bitcoin stands at the forefront, embodying both the potential and perils of an increasingly digitized financial landscape.
Whether it remains a symbol of innovation or succumbs to the pitfalls of volatility and speculative excess, one thing is certain: Bitcoin’s story is far from over.
The URC Flour Sariaya Plant is now operational, which will bring the company’s total milling capacity to over 104,100 bags daily. L-R: Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, Irwin C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer, Universal Robina Corporation, Lance Gokongwei, Chairman Universal Robina Corporation, Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of Department of Agriculture and Conrado M. Estrella III, Secretary of Department of Agrarian Reform.
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