9, Jun 2026
Minds by Animoca Brands and HKSTP launch ‘Build East’ demo day to unveil Hong Kong’s top agentic AI builders
On 7 July 2026, eight local teams will pitch for access to the up to US$10M Minds Investment Programme in front of global delegates
HONG KONG — 8 June 2026 — Animoca Brands and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) today announced Build East, a premier demo day they are co-hosting on 7 July 2026 to showcase local talent focused on agentic AI. The initiative will see eight standout Hong Kong-based teams pitch their projects for potential access to the Minds Investment Programme.
The Minds Investment Programme was created to support early-stage builders integrating Minds by Animoca Brands (“Minds”) as their core product layer. Teams which are successfully accepted into the investment programme, subject to assessment from time to time, will receive an individually tailored mix of benefits, such as Cognition Credits, developer relations support, high-value ecosystem introductions across Animoca Brands’ portfolio of over 600 companies, and, where appropriate and subject to due diligence, capital investment from an aggregate pool of up to US$10M.
Building the agentic era
Minds by Animoca Brands is a persistent AI agent platform that removes complexity while preserving full control and customization for users of any knowledge or skill level. It enables anyone to quickly deploy and manage sovereign, always-on AI agents, called Minds, without having to operate local servers or manage any hardware or software.
Build East seeks to identify and support promising Hong Kong-based projects building with Minds, by evaluating them for eligibility for the Minds Investment Programme.
The cohort structure for Build East is evenly split: four demo slots are reserved for premier HKSTP Park companies, and four demo slots are open to the wider community. On demo day, the eight teams will pitch their projects to an audience of investors, ecosystem leaders, and global delegates, including a delegation from Saudi Arabia. Selected teams will be eligible for acceptance into the Minds Investment Programme, subject to further evaluation. Visit the Minds Builder Hub webpage for more details.
Build East will take place on 7 July 2026 from 1 to 6 p.m. at Hong Kong Science Park. HKSTP is the exclusive “Tech Ecosystem Partner” of LEAP East 2026, which begins the following day.
HKSTP has built a thriving innovation and technology ecosystem, supporting 13 unicorns and bringing together approximately 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions, and over 17,000 research professionals.
Leadership perspectives
Yat Siu, co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, said: “As a global company headquartered in Hong Kong, we are absolutely thrilled to work with HKSTP to help accelerate the development of agentic AI in this vibrant and forward-looking city. Hong Kong’s combination of builder density, capital depth, and global connectivity render it uniquely well-suited to establish itself as a leading economic and development hub for the agentic era. Build East provides a timely platform enabling agentic AI builders in Hong Kong to connect with global investors as the city’s role in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation continues to evolve.”
Eric Or, chief ecosystem development officer of HKSTP, said: “HKSTP is proud to co-host Build East alongside Animoca Brands and Minds. This event reflects our REIMAGINE AI+ commitment and our role as Hong Kong’s home for the founders building the next generation of intelligent agents.”
How to apply
Applications to Build East are now open. Hong Kong-based developers, founders, and early-stage teams who are leveraging Minds by Animoca Brands are encouraged to submit their projects to secure a demo slot at Build East. The deadline for applications is 22 June 2026. Teams can apply directly via the Minds Builder Hub at http://build.hellominds.ai/
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- By Neel Achary
9, Jun 2026
Vodia Networks Announces External Presence Sharing with Version 70 of the Vodia PBX
BOSTON: June 9, 2026 – Vodia Networks, Inc., a provider of unified cloud communications solutions to enterprises, contact centers, and service providers, is pleased to announce the newest version of the industry-standard Vodia PBX, V70, enables presence information sharing externally between tenants and across individual PBX systems, helping teams stay connected across distributed communication environments.
V70 introduces the ability to share presence information between two tenants on the same PBX, or across different PBX servers in separate locations. The PBX systems must be able to reach each other through the internet for the exchange of presence information across environments. Once configured, the external account can be monitored through multiple interfaces.
This feature extends BLF visibility beyond a single tenant or PBX system, creating new possibilities for organizations operating across multiple locations or managing distributed PBX deployments. V70 also creates a path for external applications to push presence information through the REST API, enabling additional flexibility for custom integrations and communication workflows.
External Presence Sharing is extremely useful for organizations operating across multiple offices, separate PBX systems, or multi-tenant deployments:
● businesses with users distributed across multiple locations
● organizations operating separate PBX systems by department or office
● service providers managing multiple tenants
● teams that require visibility into extension availability across environments
By extending presence visibility beyond a single PBX environment, V70 helps organizations maintain clearer communication visibility across users and locations.
V70 improvements for modern PBX deployments
Version 70 of the Vodia PBX introduces major architectural and usability improvements designed for modern business communication environments. In addition to External Presence Sharing, V70 also:
● introduces a completely refreshed admin interface built on new technology
● uses multiple CPU cores for media processing, enabling more than a thousand calls on a single server
● provides snapshot creation and restoration using a file system approach for rollback and recovery
● enables centralized remote provisioning
● supports cross-tenant BLF status sharing
For businesses and service providers managing larger deployments, these improvements provide greater operational flexibility, scalability, and visibility across multiple environments.
Documentation is available on the Vodia documentation website. For further information, sales@vodia.com, +1 (617) 861-3490.
8, Jun 2026
FSSAI Directs Food Business Operators to Stop Using Newspapers for Packing Food
FSSAI Bans Use of Newspapers for Food Packaging, Cites Health Risks
Representational image
New Delhi, June 8: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all Food Business Operators (FBOs) across the country to immediately discontinue the use of newspapers for packing, wrapping, and serving food items, citing serious health and safety concerns.
The food safety regulator has reiterated that newspapers are not suitable for direct contact with food as the printing ink used in newspapers may contain harmful chemicals, pigments, and contaminants that can migrate into food and pose health risks to consumers.
According to FSSAI, the use of newspapers for packaging hot, oily, or moist food products increases the likelihood of contamination. Chemicals present in printing inks, including heavy metals and other hazardous substances, can adversely affect human health when ingested over time.
The authority has advised food vendors, restaurants, street food operators, and other food businesses to use only food-grade packaging materials that comply with prescribed safety standards. FSSAI has also urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing food items wrapped in newspapers.
The directive forms part of the regulator’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety standards and promote hygienic food handling practices across the country. Food businesses found violating the guidelines may face regulatory action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The move is expected to improve consumer safety and encourage the adoption of safer and more hygienic food packaging practices nationwide.
8, Jun 2026
TCS Receives Special Recognition as Largest Employer Among IT/ITeS Exporters at STPI Tech Summit 2026
New Delhi: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India’s leading IT services and consulting company, has been conferred with the Special Recognition Award as the Largest Employer among IT/ITeS Exporters at the STPI Tech Summit 2026: India’s Next Leap.
The recognition highlights TCS’s outstanding contribution to employment generation, talent development, and the sustained growth of India’s information technology and IT-enabled services (IT/ITeS) export sector.
As one of the country’s largest private-sector employers, TCS has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for technology professionals across India while fostering innovation, digital transformation, and skill development. The company continues to invest significantly in workforce training, emerging technologies, and future-ready capabilities, strengthening India’s position as a global technology powerhouse.
The award, presented during the STPI Tech Summit 2026, acknowledges TCS’s enduring commitment to nurturing technology talent and supporting the expansion of India’s digital economy. Industry leaders noted that the company’s large-scale employment initiatives have contributed substantially to enhancing the country’s competitiveness in global IT services and exports.
The recognition also underscores the critical role played by the IT/ITeS industry in driving economic growth, generating high-value employment, and advancing India’s vision of becoming a leading global digital innovation hub.
TCS’s achievement reflects the broader success of India’s technology ecosystem, which continues to attract global demand for digital services, innovation, and skilled talent. Through its sustained focus on workforce development and export excellence, TCS remains a key contributor to the continued growth and resilience of the Indian IT industry.
8, Jun 2026
Odisha Approves Rs.833.74 Crore Tourism and Hospitality Investments, Creating 1,823 Jobs
Bhubaneswar, June 8 (UDN): Odisha has taken another significant step toward strengthening its tourism and hospitality sector, with the approval of multiple investment proposals worth ₹833.74 crore during the 147th State Level Single Window Clearance Authority (SLSWCA) meeting. The approved projects are expected to generate 1,823 employment opportunities across the state.
The investments span several districts, reflecting the state’s growing appeal as a destination for tourism-led development. The approved projects include hospitality, resort, and tourism infrastructure ventures that aim to enhance visitor experiences while boosting local economies.
Among the key projects approved are those proposed by Swosti Premium Ltd. in Koraput, SNM Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd. in Koraput, Sri Eco Resorts in Keonjhar, Sailabala Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. in Puri, Suryo Udyog Ltd. in Jagatsinghpur, Pratyaksh Hotel & Resorts Pvt. Ltd. in Koraput, Leharsh Exports & Services Pvt. Ltd. in Sundargarh, and Prachi Enterprises in Mayurbhanj.
The approvals underline the Odisha government’s continued focus on promoting tourism as a key economic growth driver. By encouraging investments in hotels, resorts, and tourism infrastructure, the state aims to attract more domestic and international visitors while creating sustainable employment opportunities in both urban and rural regions.
Industry observers note that the fresh investments will strengthen Odisha’s hospitality ecosystem, particularly in emerging tourism destinations such as Koraput, Keonjhar, and Mayurbhanj, while further consolidating established hubs like Puri.
The latest approvals under the SLSWCA framework are aligned with Odisha’s broader vision of accelerating industrial growth, enhancing ease of doing business, and positioning the state as a preferred investment destination across sectors.
8, Jun 2026
MDEC Highlights AI Sovereignty Agenda at Energy Transition Conference 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, 8 June 2026 – Malaysia’s commitment to building sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and strengthening digital infrastructure resilience took centre stage at the Energy Transition Conference 2026 (ETCon26), where the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) participated in a high-level panel discussion on the future of AI development in the region.
Representing MDEC, Ir. Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad, Vice President and Head of the Digital Adoption Division, joined industry experts for the session titled “AI Sovereignty – Building Advantage Amid Global Dependencies.” The discussion examined how Malaysia and ASEAN can accelerate AI adoption while balancing the need for sovereign technological capabilities with the benefits of trusted global partnerships.
Organised by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), ETCon26 was held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) and brought together policymakers, industry leaders, technology experts, and ecosystem stakeholders to explore the intersection of energy, AI, and digital infrastructure in driving the nation’s future competitiveness. The event also featured participation from government agencies and ministerial leadership, underscoring the strategic importance of digital transformation and energy transition initiatives.
During the panel session, Ir. Wan Murdani highlighted the importance of developing resilient digital ecosystems that support Malaysia’s ambitions to become a leading digital nation and AI-driven economy. The discussion aligned closely with MDEC’s ongoing efforts to accelerate digital adoption, strengthen technological capabilities, and create an environment that enables innovation while safeguarding national interests.
Panelists explored several critical enablers required to support the growth of sovereign AI ecosystems, including policy frameworks, talent development, data governance, cloud infrastructure, computing capacity, and sustainable energy resources. The conversation also emphasised the increasing importance of integrating AI development strategies with energy infrastructure planning to ensure scalability and long-term sustainability.
Joining Ir. Wan Murdani on the panel were Lyantoniette Chua of AI Safety Asia and Khalil Nooh, Chief Executive Officer of Mesolitica. The session was moderated by Christine Yong Wei Ling of TNB, who guided discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing countries seeking to establish competitive AI ecosystems amid evolving global technological dependencies.
The panel highlighted the need for ASEAN nations to collaborate on AI advancement while maintaining strategic autonomy in critical areas such as data management, infrastructure development, and talent cultivation. Speakers also stressed that trusted international partnerships remain essential in accelerating innovation and enabling access to global expertise and technology.
The session concluded with strong engagement from attendees, reflecting growing regional momentum toward developing secure, scalable, and energy-aligned AI ecosystems. Participants expressed optimism that continued collaboration between government, industry, and technology stakeholders will help position Malaysia as a key player in the regional AI landscape while supporting broader economic and digital transformation goals.
ETCon26 continues to serve as an important platform for advancing dialogue on the convergence of energy, digital technologies, and innovation, as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its competitiveness in an increasingly AI-powered global economy.
8, Jun 2026
Scientists Achieve the First Total Synthesis of Complex Alkaloids Isolated from Plants
Chiba, Japan, June 8, 2026: Researchers at Chiba University have achieved a significant breakthrough in medicinal chemistry by developing an innovative strategy to synthesize complex plant-derived alkaloids that could pave the way for next-generation cancer treatments.
The research team, led by Professor Hayato Ishikawa of the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Chiba University, successfully developed a novel synthetic route for producing bisleuconothine A and bousigonine B—two highly complex monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs) known for their promising pharmaceutical properties.
The findings, published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, address a longstanding challenge in drug discovery. Although many plant-derived alkaloids possess potent biological activity, their intricate molecular structures have made laboratory synthesis extremely difficult, limiting further research and therapeutic development.
Among these compounds, bisleuconothine A has attracted particular attention due to its demonstrated activity against breast and lung cancer cells. Scientists believe that its unique three-dimensional structure enables it to interact with biological targets that are often inaccessible to conventional small-molecule drugs.
To overcome the synthesis challenge, the Chiba University team designed a new organocatalytic cascade reaction capable of efficiently constructing a critical 3-ethylpiperidine scaffold found in numerous indole alkaloids. The process generated a highly pure intermediate that served as a versatile building block for assembling more complex molecular structures.
Using this common intermediate, researchers created two distinct alkaloid fragments and subsequently linked them through a bioinspired coupling reaction that mirrors the natural processes used by plants to produce these compounds. The strategy enabled the synthesis of bisleuconothine A in 20 steps and resulted in the first-ever total synthesis of bousigonine B.
“The present method for total chemical synthesis is expected to facilitate the development of new pharmaceutical agents,” said Professor Ishikawa. “In particular, bisleuconothine A has exhibited potent anticancer activity, highlighting its potential as a lead compound for anticancer drug development.”
Beyond these two molecules, the researchers believe their methodology could provide a broader platform for synthesizing other structurally complex natural products. By enabling more efficient access to rare alkaloids, the approach may accelerate drug discovery efforts across oncology and other therapeutic areas.
The team is now focused on expanding the technique to synthesize additional members of the MIA family and evaluating their biological activity for potential pharmaceutical applications.
The study received support from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, and the JST SPRING program.
The breakthrough marks an important step toward unlocking the therapeutic potential of nature’s most complex molecules and could open new avenues for the development of innovative anticancer medicines.
8, Jun 2026
Vision statement: PPDS names ‘AV veteran’ Tom Keefe as new Director of Sales for Philips LED in North America
Powering forward: Bringing more than two decades of AV expertise and industry experience, Tom will play a pivotal role in supporting PPDS’ accelerating growth ambitions as the company continues its drive to become the preferred brand for premium, energy efficient dvLED installations across North America.
Amsterdam, 09 June 2026: PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of highly experienced sales professional and self proclaimed Pro AV ‘veteran’, Tom Keefe, as its new Director of Sales dvLED North America.
Continuing to attract among the AV industry’s most accomplished and sought after talents, Tom’s appointment will play an integral role in PPDS’ continued growth trajectory and long term ambitions in North America, which includes establishing Philips Professional Displays as the preferred partner for premium indoor and outdoor dvLED projects.
Based in Buffalo, New York, and a father of two, Tom has built an impressive 23 year career in the AV industry, including the past seven years specialising exclusively in dvLED solutions.
An AVIXA CTS holder, he brings extensive market knowledge and a track record of success to the PPDS team, with proven expertise in sales, business development, category management, marketing strategy, brand building, distribution, partner relationship management, and market analysis, to name a few.
Primed for growth
Reporting to Senior Director North America, Bruce Wyrwitzke, Tom’s core responsibilities as Director of Sales dvLED North America will include, among others, developing and defining PPDS’ organisational sales structure and executing its go to market strategy.
His experience will enable PPDS to further advance its tailored regional approach across North America, enhance engagement with sales and management teams, partners, and customers, while also increasing awareness of the Philips LED portfolio, delivering exceptional visual performance and stand out energy efficiency possibilities.
On Philips booth C9000 and available for meetings during InfoComm 2026 in Las Vegas next week, Tom joins PPDS during a period of exceptional growth, both nationally and internationally, achieving exponential success for Philips dvLED installations in retail, corporate, public venues, sports stadiums, houses of worship, and more.
PPDS’ recent entry into outdoor LED has further extended project opportunities, as demand for the technology continues to grow.
A land of opportunity
According to market forecasts, the global LED display market is expected to grow from US$2.41 billion in 2026 to approximately US$3.46 billion by 2035, with the United States continuing to lead in revenue generation. This growth is being driven by rising demand for LED solutions across key sectors, including retail, transportation, entertainment, and digital out of home (DooH) advertising – all of which remain key markets for PPDS.
Discussing his new role, Tom said: “My background in sales, business development, and product management and business development, along with my dvLED experience empowers me with the tools required to continue driving and improving the PPDS performance in North America.
“My goal as Director of Sales for DVLED is to leverage the premier reputation we have built and to expand our value to partners. I have always been impressed by Philips Professional Displays and the strong reputation the PPDS team has built in the AV industry. The company has a proud track record of continually offering innovative, leading edge products designed for professional grade applications. I’m excited that I get to be part of this fantastic team of professionals.”
Bruce, who will also be in attendance and available at InfoComm 2026, added: “The opportunities for dvLED are clear and, at PPDS, we have been working hard to ensure we deliver the solutions our partners and customers crave. Indoor or outdoor, small, large or highly creative by design, we have the portfolio to match any project need and requirement, no matter how ambitious it may be.
Angela Lin, Commercial Head NA at PPDS, added: “With Tom, we have someone with the knowledge and experience to take our dvLED business to the next stage, bringing our solutions to an even wider audience. I wish him every success in the role.”
To arrange a meeting with a member of the PPDS team at InfoComm 2026 in Las Vegas, please contact Michael Garwood by email at Michael@BeesBuzzPR.com or message via WhatsApp on +44 7300 841 927.
8, Jun 2026
Nasr Polo and Equestrian Academy Hosts Tour 2 of Hyderabad Horse Show 2026 Summer Championship
June 08: Nasr Polo and Equestrian Academy is proud to announce the hosting of Tour 2 of the Hyderabad Horse Show 2026 Summer Championship, scheduled to take place from Friday, 5 June to Sunday, 7 June 2026 at the academy’s state-of-the-art equestrian facilities in Hyderabad.
The three-day championship will bring together some of the country’s most promising and accomplished riders, horses, and equestrian enthusiasts for a weekend of exciting competition and sportsmanship. Riders across multiple age groups and competition levels will compete in a series of dressage and showjumping events, showcasing their skill, precision, and dedication to the sport.
The Hyderabad Horse Show has established itself as one of India’s premier equestrian competitions, providing a platform for emerging talent while promoting excellence in horsemanship and equestrian sport.
Tour 2 of the Summer Championship is expected to attract participants from across the nation, further strengthening Hyderabad’s position as a leading hub for equestrian activities.
Speaking on the occasion, representatives of Nasr Polo and Equestrian Academy expressed their enthusiasm about hosting the event and welcomed riders, trainers, officials, sponsors, and spectators to be part of the championship.
“We are delighted to host Tour 2 of the Hyderabad Horse Show 2026 Summer Championship. The event reflects our commitment to developing equestrian sport and providing riders with a world-class competitive environment. We look forward to witnessing outstanding performances and celebrating the spirit of equestrian excellence.”
The championship will feature competitions ranging from beginner classes to advanced showjumping events, ensuring opportunities for riders of all experience levels. Spectators can expect three days of thrilling competition, sportsmanship, and family-friendly entertainment.
Nasr Polo and Equestrian Academy extends its gratitude to all participants, officials, sponsors, and supporters whose continued commitment contributes to the growth and success of equestrian sport in India.
Event Details:
* Event: Hyderabad Horse Show 2026 – Summer Championship (Tour 2)
* Dates: 5–7 June 2026
* Venue: Nasr Polo and Equestrian Academy, Hyderabad
Mirzaguda, Janwada Village, Hyderabad, Telangana
* Disciplines: Dressage and Showjumping
8, Jun 2026
Tribeca & Tejukaya Celebrate Top Channel Partners with Exclusive New York Voyage After the Edge’s Record Sell-Out
Mumbai, India, June 08: Tribeca Developers and Tejukaya hosted ‘The Edge Elite USA Voyage 2026’, an exclusive five-day New York experience curated for their top-performing channel partners following the remarkable success of The Edge – Trophy Property of Mumbai, in Parel.
The initiative recognised the contribution of channel partners towards the success of The Edge Tower 1, which achieved a complete sell–out at launch, marking a key milestone for the development.
Curated as a celebration and an immersion in global luxury, the voyage offered participants exposure to the world’s best in luxury living, architecture, hospitality and branded residences – the international standards against which The Edge is benchmarked.
The voyage brought together a series of curated experiences across New York, including a helicopter ride over Manhattan, guided visits to landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge and Ground Zero, luxury dining engagements and a private dinner cruise.
A key highlight of the voyage was an exclusive experience at Trump Tower, immersing participants in the Trump universe – a partnership Tribeca has built over more than a decade as the world’s largest developer of Trump-branded residences. The visit offered a first-hand encounter with the design, craftsmanship and hospitality-led living that define globally benchmarked branded residences and continue to shape aspirational living worldwide.
Beyond celebration, the initiative also served as a strategic relationship-building platform, reinforcing Tribeca and Tejukaya’s focus on deeper collaboration, long-term partnerships and elevated stakeholder engagement within the luxury real estate ecosystem.
Sharing his perspective, Mr. Rajat Khandelwal, Group CEO, Tribeca Developers, said, “The response to The Edge Tower 1was exceptional, with a complete sell–out at launch. This voyage was our way of recognising the channel partners who played an important role in that success. At the same time, it offered an opportunity to experience global benchmarks in luxury living that increasingly influence buyer expectations in India.”
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Pranav Tejookaya, CEO & Managing Director, Tejukaya, said, “The Edge Elite USA Voyage 2026 was designed to celebrate a significant milestone for The Edge while strengthening relationships with our channel partners. Beyond recognition, the experience provided valuable exposure to international standards in luxury, hospitality and design that are shaping the future of premium residential development.”
Design-led and benchmarked against the world’s best, Tribeca and Tejukaya continue to craft iconic landmarks and elevated lifestyle experiences that redefine luxury living in Mumbai.
