TBC News

Tag: Philippines

  • Smoking weed drives cannabis market to reach $82.3-billion by 2027 

    Smoking weed drives cannabis market to reach $82.3-billion by 2027 

    The recreational segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period 

    The global cannabis market is estimated to be valued at USD 27.7 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 82.3 billion by 2027, recording a CAGR of 24.3% in terms of value. 

    The market is driven by the rise in the use of cannabis for recreational and medical use. Moreover, there has been an increased legalization of cannabis in the US in states like Virginia in 2021 and Rhode Island in 2022 and in other countries like in Malta in 2021, and Thailand in 2018. 

    The cannabis industry is growing rapidly and witnessing a double-digit growth rate globally. There are several major companies operating in the cannabis segment that dominate their respective markets. Thus, companies are competing to gain a significant market share. 

    Recreational cannabis demand is increasing continuously driven by Gen Z consumers. A small but encouraging portion of cannabis products are being sold to women due to a shift in public opinion, and this percentage is predicted to increase over time.  

    Moreover, legalization has have led to a trend toward cannabis-related tourism, with locations producing novel holiday items to entice clients and increasing travel bookings to cannabis-legal destinations. 

    THC strain is used for both medical and recreational applications, which increases its demand among manufacturers as well as consumers.  

    Growing Together Research Inc., an Indiana-based biotechnology business, has created a new technique for genetically regulating the expression of Delta-9-THC in cannabis, including the capacity to boost cannabinoid levels in marijuana varieties grown for recreational or medical purposes.  

    Moreover, other forms of THC, such as delta-8-THC, are gaining popularity in addition to the conventional version. 

    The market in Europe is majorly driven by the awareness of medical benefits of cannabis in the region coupled with the healthcare system present in several European countries that covers the health expenditure of most patients in these regions. 

    As the legalization of cannabis in European countries is at a nascent stage, this creates a considerable opportunity for companies to establish themselves in the region.  

    Since the beginning of 2019, the European cannabis market has witnessed multiple mergers and acquisitions involving companies focused on medical cannabis. Like in the starting of 2021 medical cannabis firm GW Pharmaceutical was acquired by Jazz Pharmaceutical for USD 6.15 Billion. 

  • MG has new exclusive promos for October 

    MG has new exclusive promos for October 

    Visit BuyAnMG.com to easily reserve your preferred MG car or SUV online

    Buyers have until the end of October 2022 to enjoy extraordinary deals from MG Philippines on select MG cars and SUVs, with either cash discount or low-down payment options available   

    Exclusive promos throughout the month of October 2022 include those for the MG 5 Sedan and MG HS SUV, with low down payment offers of just Php 35k OR cash discounts of up to Php 100k on select variants  

    The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) – MG Philippines – MG Philippines opens the final quarter of 2022 with a set of exclusive promos on select MG cars and SUVs, making it easier for you to drive home your very own attainable, modern, British heritage MG ride.   

    Dubbed “Cheers to Extraordinary,” MG Philippines’ latest promo evokes the excitement and cheerfulness of a truly celebratory month for MG Philippines, as this October marks the 4th year anniversary of MG Philippines under the distributorship of The Covenant Car Company, Inc.  

    The brand invites everyone to join in the celebration by offering superb deals on your favorite MG vehicles. Until the end of October 2022, MG Philippines’ exciting promos on brand-new MG cars and SUVs are made available in all 42 nationwide MG dealerships. See below for the full range of extraordinary deals offered by MG Philippines:   

    Promo highlights include those on the MG 5 1.5-liter CVT Style Sedan variant, which can be yours for a low down payment of just Php 48k, OR with a cash discount of Php 70k.  

    The MG 5 sedan is a cut above the rest in the subcompact sedan segment—living up to its tagline “Big in Features, Big in Comfort—offering class leading dimensions, space, and tech in a modern, comfortable, and stylish package.  

    Likewise, the promo offers on the premium, top of the line MG HS 1.5-liter Trophy SUV variant are among the most attractive in the lot, offering a low down payment of just Php 35k OR a Php 100k cash discount.  

    The MG HS, with its flowing body lines and sporty stance is a sight to behold, while inside the vehicle’s spacious and comfortable cabin is done up in premium materials with multiple soft touch surfaces that elevate your driving experience.   

    Aside from extraordinary promo offers, October 2022 ushers in the return of MG Live!—MG Philippines’ flagship, free concert roadshow series that features the latest MG cars and SUVs, engaging test drives at the MG Live!  

    Drive and Win course, and live musical performances from both up-and-coming and iconic OPM artists. To drum up the excitement for this unique and much-awaited event, MG Philippines has activated a special raffle promo that gives fans a chance to take home premium gift items.  

    To join, customers simply need to visit these MG Live! 2022 activations on the following dates and take a test drive around the designated MG Live! Drive and Win course:   

    SM Marikina: October 21-23, 2022  

    Nuvali Solenad 1: November 4-6, 2022  

    Autofocus Pre-Christmas Test Drive Festival: November 17-20, 2022  

    Each successful test drive taken and recorded around the MG Live! Drive and Win course is equivalent to one raffle entry, where lucky customers get a chance to win any of the following prizes: one (1) Sony Playstation 5; two (2) Apple Watch SEs; and three (3) pairs of Apple Airpods Pro.  

    Test driving clients may take multiple runs with different MG vehicles through the MG Live! Drive and Win course at each leg, but only one raffle entry per client is recorded. For more details about the raffle mechanics, visit mgmotor.com.ph/promos.   

    And of course, there’s the live music that makes each MG Live! free concert event unique. On the first leg, Filipino indie-rock band This Band graces the MG Live! concert stage at SM Marikina on October 23, at 4pm; and on the second leg, OPM icons Parokya ni Edgar light it up at Nuvali Solenad 1 on November 5, at 5pm.  

    Both legs also feature an opening performance by Idol PH 2022 1st runner up Kice. Rock out and sing along with your favorite tunes, take a spin around the MG Live! Drive and Win course with your favorite MG rides and get a chance to win premium items from MG Philippines.   

    October 2022 is a truly special month for MG Philippines, loaded with activities and offers that invite everyone to take part in the cheer of this celebratory year-ender.   

  • You can pre-order the new Huawei Nova 10 devices starting today 

    You can pre-order the new Huawei Nova 10 devices starting today 

    Be inspired, be nova! 

    The HUAWEI nova 10 Series, three stylish mid-ranger smartphones that meet the contemporary, ever-evolving trends of today’s youth, are now available for pre-order accordign to an announcement from the Huawei Consumer Business Group. 

    Available now at offline and online HUAWEI Stores, authorized retail outlets, and leading e-commerce sites Shopee and Lazada.  

    The 10th generation of nova inherits the design of the HUAWEI nova Series, bringing together innovative design and cutting-edge craftsmanship. It takes on the dazzling and chic Star Orbit Ring classic design.  

    More especially, the smartphone has evolved its front camera capabilities with new added features, allowing nova users to express themselves more confidently while staying in trend.   

    From selfies to vlogging, the HUAWEI nova Series continues to lead in the innovation of mobile front camera technology. With the HUAWEI Multi-Vision Photography, the nova 10 Pro sports high-quality dual front camera lenses.  

    One lens features the industry’s first front-facing 60MP Ultra-Wide Autofocus Camera, supporting 100-degree wide angle and 4K video quality, which offers excellent resolution and light sensitivity.  

    Additionally, the front-facing 8MP Portrait Close-up Camera, another industry’s first, supports 2X optical zoom and up to 5X digital zoom, expanding the limits of human perception and bringing you the ultimate close-up portrait experience.  

    The nova 10, on the other hand, is equipped with a single Front SLR-Level Bokeh 60MP Ultra-Wide Autofocus Camera that can meet different photography needs and habits in different scenes to create textured portraits.   

    The HUAWEI nova 10 Pro and nova 10 also sports the industry’s first front camera built with Instant AF with Quad Phased Detection (QPD), where every single pixel is dedicated to photography and focus.

    Compared to a common autofocus lens, it promises a 30 percent increase in focus speed, which also greatly improves the resolution of wide-angle images by 119 percent.   

    Thanks to the 0.7X~5X Free Zoom, both the HUAWEI nova 10 Pro and nova 10 capture 54mm portrait focal length, 27mm wide-angle focal length and 19mm ultra-wide-angle focal length, bringing consistent and excellent image quality from any distance to perfectly meet the user’ needs for all-scenario portrait selfies in different focal lengths with a smartphone.  

    The nova 10 SE, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 16 MP wide-angle camera (equivalent to 2.0 um, f/2.2), that automatically identifies the setting and switches to wide-angle mode – allowing an up to 90° field of view. 4-in-1 Pixel Binning technology provides excellent low-light shooting capabilities  

    On rear cameras, the HUAWEI nova 10, and 10 Pro’s rear cameras comes equipped with 50MP Ultra Vision Photography.

    The cameras adopt the Huawei’s flagship-grade RYYB Colour Filter Array, and supports Instant AF with QPD and zero shutter-lag technology (ZSL) which offers ideal photography results in low-light environments, and supports the AI Snapshot function to lock in every memory and moment.  

    Meanwhile, the nova 10 SE’s rear camera module features a Domain Imaging System that incorporates a 108 MP High-Res main camera, 8 MP ultra wide-angle and depth of field camera, and 2 MP macro camera.

    The main camera has a sky-high pixel count, supports an f/1.9 wide aperture, and takes in more light — producing a whole new level of detail.    

    Vlogging has become a new way for young people to express themselves and share their daily lives, especially through popular video-focused social media platforms. Using the powerful camera system of HUAWEI nova 10 Pro Series, users can create vlogs that unleash their deepest inspirations.  

    With upgraded autofocus capabilities of the dual front cameras, HUAWEI nova 10 Pro, and nova 10 can intelligently switch the focus of different subjects within the camera, and through the Showcase Focus function, allows the subjects to be clearly displayed even in vlogs filmed indoors.

    It can also utilize multiple cameras of the smartphone to shoot simultaneously, offering a multi-camera shooting experience with the combination of dual front cameras, both front and back cameras, as well as picture-in-picture shooting, all while portraying the fine details of the subject’s face, make-up, and accessories.

    For outdoor shots with wide fields-of-view, users can freely adjust the zoom to easily shoot 0.7X~5X zoom videos on top of leveraging on the front camera’s powerful dual autofocus capabilities, capturing scenic images surrounding  

    When recording subjects using the rear camera, HUAWEI nova 10 Pro, and nova 10 comes with the Follow Focus function which locks in and follows the video subject. Even if the subject is temporarily blocked, the focus will remain on the subject when they reappear in front of the camera without interruption.   

    HUAWEI nova 10 Series inherits the design genetics of the HUAWEI nova Series, enhancing its original Star Orbit Ring design, and adapts the new Star Orbit Craft design, which adds a better shimmer to the design texture and a silkier touch.

    The HUAWEI nova 10 Pro comes with a thickness of 7.88mm and weighs at 191g; while the HUAWEI nova 10 is much thinner and lighter, with a thickness of 6.88mm and weighs at 168g. All models strike a balance between performance and easy-grip design.  

    The nova 10 Series smartphones also now come in Starry Silver and complements the golden Star Orbit Ring and Icon design for a luxurious look and feel. Moreover, the rest of the HUAWEI nova 10 Series also comes in the premium and subtle Starry Black,  and the stunning Provence, and Mint Green colorways. The three different colour styles better meet the user’s fashion choices and personal style.  

    Be it playing games, watching videos or browsing photos, the HUAWEI nova 10 Series smartphones focus on vivid screen displays and detail enhancement, allowing users to immerse themselves in a visual feast.

    HUAWEI nova 10 Series supports 1.07 billion colours, a high refresh rate of up to 120Hz, and 300Hz touch sampling rate which offer users a smoother user experience, whether it is daily operations, web browsing or other smartphone interactions.  

    To cope with battery life challenges arising from high-frequency application use scenarios such as videography and gaming, Huawei also continues to lead the innovation in fast charging technology. HUAWEI nova 10 Pro supports the 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge, and firstly equipped with the new Turbo Mode, breaking the power consumption limits for instant charging.

    Meanwhile, the HUAWEI nova 10 and nova 10 SE come equipped a 66W HUAWEI SuperCharge that includes a brand-new dual low-voltage charge pump and three-tab battery technologies  

    The HUAWEI nova 10 Pro also features Ultra-Generation VC Liquid Cooling which brings heat dissipation with better speed and uniformity. It adopts an AI-powered temperature-sensing technology that detects hot spots on the surface of the phone and optimally redistributes the heat, bringing a cooler and smoother user experience.  

    In terms of gaming experience, HUAWEI nova 10 Series features the new Touch Turbo 2.0. Users can simply shake the phone to trigger any corresponding key operation, which effectively improves the user experience of mobile games. HUAWEI nova 10 Series is also equipped with Stereo Dual Speakers.

    Built with the Histen ultra-wide sound field, users can also enjoy an immersive audio and video experience, whether it is listening to music, watching movies or playing games.  

    The HUAWEI nova line has always been HUAWEI’s gift to the youth — with technologies and innovations tailored fit to the needs and interests of young generations as they evolve. As a way to put the youth to greater heights, the line’s winning formula is also forwarded even more through a partnership with Bilibili — one of the largest video platforms for anime, comics and gaming (ACG) content in Southeast Asia.

    The #novaStarVlog Challenge opens its doors again to  all creators, vloggers, and rising nova superstars! All aspiring content creators of today can rise up to the challenge and upload their original video with the hashtag #novaStarVlog!

    Creators who contribute high-quality videos will have a chance to win the all-new HUAWEI nova 10 SE and other great prizes! Entries will be accepted on Bilibili’s official website and app starting from October 21-November 4.  

    HUAWEI nova loyalists are also in for a treat with the ongoing HUAWEI nova Series Promo that offers up to PHP 4,000 off on the different crowd favorites.

    To top it all off, Huawei is offering a Trade-In-Promo that lets users snatch up to PHP 30,000 discount on new HUAWEI nova smartphones, in exchange of old units — happening at over 90 Huawei Experience Stores nationwide.  

    Born to be different, and pre-order the HUAWEI nova 10 Series now to enjoy the most innovative photography experience.  

    ● HUAWEI nova 10 Pro
    ○ SRP: PHP 32,999
    ○ Inclusive of a HUAWEI Watch GT2 Pro pre-order freebie worth PHP 9,999 for
    grabs until October 27, 2022

    ● HUAWEI nova 10
    ○ SRP: PHP 26,999
    ○ Inclusive of a HUAWEI Freebuds 4 pre-order freebie worth PHP 5,599 for grabs
    until October 27, 2022

    ● HUAWEI nova 10 SE
    ○ SRP: PHP 17,999
    ○ Inclusive of a HUAWEI Freebuds SE pre-order freebie worth PHP 2,499 for
    grabs until November 3, 2022

     

  • Pharmacy automation to grow by 8% during forecast period

    Pharmacy automation to grow by 8% during forecast period

    The pharmacy packaging and labelling system segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during 2022 – 2032.

    The global pharmacy automation systems market is projected to reach a value of about US$ 10.6 Bn by 2032, with the market growing at a strong CAGR of 8.0% from 2022 to 2032. Valued at US$ 4.6 Mn in 2021, the target market will likely reach US$ 4.9 Bn in 2022.

    The market for pharmacy automation systems is expanding as more pharmacies use them for drug dispensing and packaging, drug storage, and inventory management.

    During the forecast period, the pharmacy automation systems market is supplemented by rising interest in automating pharmacies’ day-to-day operations.

    The market for pharmacy automation systems is dominated by retail and hospital pharmacies.Around the world, more and more pharmacies are implementing pharmacy automation systems to automate day-to-day tasks, reduce the need for human intervention, increase operational efficiencies, and reduce overstocking. Both inpatient and outpatient pharmacies use these systems.

    Other features of pharmacy automation systems include the capacity to measure customized medications, keep track of and update customer data stored in a database, and monitor the entire inventory management and distribution process.

    Consequently, they are a suitable replacement for manual dispensing across drugstores. The installation of these systems has immensely improved the efficiency and security of storing, administering, filling, packaging, and labeling prescription medications.

    These considerations, coupled with other factors like the introduction of cost-effective automation solutions, incorporation of advancing technology into the target product, etc., are likely to drive the growth of the pharmacy automation systems market during the forecast period.

    Furthermore, the rising awareness of the benefits of pharmacy automation technologies is encouraging many small and mid-sized healthcare hospitals and retail pharmacies to replace their traditional pharmacy operation practices with these systems. This will boost the market prospects during the next decade.

  • New flying car capable of vertical takeoff

    New flying car capable of vertical takeoff

    The Alef Flying Car can be driven on the street and skies.

    The Alef “Model A,” the only flying car with street driving and vertical takeoff, is now available for purchase from Alef Aeronautics, a cutting-edge technology company that is developing alternative transportation options for escalating traffic trends.

    The flying Alef Model A can be driven and parked within the existing urban infrastructure.In the fourth quarter of 2025, the company intends to begin production and begin the first deliveries.

    On October 19, 2022, the first Alef flying car will be available to pre-sale to customers for $300,000, with a $150 regular queue or $1,500 priority queue deposit.

    The Alef “Model A” flying car has a driving range of 200 miles and a flight range of 110 miles. It has a distributed electric propulsion system, no exposed propellers, extensive software flight stabilization and safety system, elevon stabilization system, and all wheel driving.

    Key safety components include triple to octuple redundancy of all key components, real-time thousand point diagnostics, pre-flight reject start diagnostics, obstacle detection and avoidance among others.

    The Alef founding team of Constantine Kisly, Pavel Markin, Oleg Petrov and Jim Dukhovny has over 70 years of experience in engineering and technology development and has been working on the Alef flying car since 2015.

    It earned early support from distinguished investors and industry veterans, led by Tim Draper (who, among others, was one of the first venture capitalists to invest in Tesla), former head of Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and Ford Aerospace Dr. Anthony Tether, NBA star Luis Scola, Bugatti designer Hirash Razaghi and others.

    Alef’s CEO Jim Dukhovny says, “The Alef Model is a modern solution for both urban and rural transportation needs in the 21st century because it is the fastest and most convenient transport ever created from the point of origin to the final destination. By enabling consumers to choose driving or flying mode, the Alef flying car allows the optimal path depending on road conditions, weather and infrastructure.”

    With additional models in development, Alef is working towards the four-person sedan, Alef “Model Z” scheduled for introduction in 2035 priced at $35K. It will be capable of flying 300+ miles with a driving range of 220+ miles.

    Alef, based in Santa Clara, California, is a sustainable electric transportation company designing and developing a road-legal passenger car capable of achieving vertical takeoff and forward flight. Alef’s goal is to enable faster, easier commutes and alleviate the burden of urban congestion through the use of proprietary technology that elevates the vehicle safely and quietly above everyday traffic.

  • Are you ready for the Nova 10 series?  

    Are you ready for the Nova 10 series?  

    Start your vlogging journey with the Nova 10 series. 

    A brand-new generation of Huawei’s nova line is set to be unveiled, pushing the boundaries of flagship, cutting-edge devices once more. The upcoming installment in the series is expected to focus on the progressive drive to inspire others with amazing technology and self-expression. 

    The ground-breaking vlogging technology that Huawei specifically developed for a new generation of content creators is front and center on this trio of nova devices. 

    From aesthetics, to performance, and of course imaging, the HUAWEI nova 10 Series aims to bring out the star within every user.  

    The Pro moniker on the nova 10 Pro is no gimmick; it is rumored to feature the biggest front camera megapixel in the market, making it a first on any device of its segment.  

    This powerful selfie unit provides incredible quality and flexibility for capturing high-res images and inventive vlogging techniques, and even supports Dual-View Video Function that utilizes multiple cameras to shoot simultaneously.   

    Accompanying the high-powered optics is its impressive HUAWEI SuperCharge capabilities that have never been seen before — an upgraded charging solution that virtually eliminates down time between filming sessions.  

    There’s no missing the ultra-thin slim bezels on the HUAWEI nova 10 Pro’s front, giving the impression of a floating display in the hand.  

    First up, the nova 10 pivots to an Ultra-Wide solution for its front camera, allowing for maximum selfie coverage be it group shots or landscape snaps.  

    The HUAWEI nova 10 is speculated to have a colorway variant that is reminiscent of the soothing fragrance of lavenders, and romantic sceneries. Its alleged slim body also makes it the thinnest phone in the world, adding to its fashion statement status and as testament to Huawei’s out-of-this-world engineering prowess.   

    The rear camera module is rumored to house an Ultra Vision unit camera system, which uses an RYYB filter to maximize light intake even in the dimmest of lighting situations. 

    Sharing the interstellar theme across this device series, the HUAWEI nova 10 SE is said to feature the Star Orbit Ring design that evokes celestial bodies traveling down the shimmering cosmos.  

    The HUAWEI nova 10 SE is also set to have a twinkling lights inspired colorway that aims to showcase the boundless energy of youth  

    For the main camera, it is said to boast of up to over 100MP megapixels to play with, underscoring the might of Huawei’s imaging tech that enables pixel-perfect zooms and impeccable night photography, just to list a few.  

    And then there’s the HUAWEI SuperCharge feature, an industry-leading power delivery solution that charges to full in little more than 30 minutes.  

    Young millennials and Generation Z take heed — the fashionable HUAWEI nova 10 Series is about to hit the town and it’s all about that creative vlogging life. Combining high-powered selfie optics and space-age aesthetic, a new age of camera excellence is hitting the Philippines soon. 

    As a treat, Early Bird Vouchers will be offered in the HUAWEI Online Store, as well as in e-commerce platforms Lazada, and Shopee. All users have to do is visit the official HUAWEI Store homepages starting from October 10-20, 2022 to collect PHP 400 vouchers — that could be redeemed as soon as the HUAWEI nova 10 Series opens its pre-orders on October 20-22, 2022.   

  • Mastercard, Grab launch upskilling program 

    Mastercard, Grab launch upskilling program 

    Courses are available free of charge to all Grab driver, delivery and merchant-partners

    The “Small Business, Big Dreams” regional program to digitally upskill gig economy workers and small businesses in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam was announced today by Mastercard and Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading superapp. 

    The partnership is a component of Strive Community, a global charitable initiative created by Caribou Digital and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.The goal of Strive Community is to aid the survival and expansion of five million small businesses worldwide. 

    The “Small Business, Big Dreams” regional program includes the launch of two online business courses for Grab’s driver and delivery-partners aspiring to start new businesses, and small business owners seeking to grow in a competitive digital economy.  

    It aims to enable small businesses to reach their full potential by supporting them to digitalize their operations, unlock their access to financial services and more effectively participate in the digital economy.  

    “Many Southeast Asians working in the informal sector aspire for more, but the reality is that a lot of them do not have the means or the opportunity to access quality training programs. Through our partnership with the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, we hope to give gig workers and small businesses a boost to get started. Our “Small Business, Big Dreams” program will equip them with business knowledge and practical skills through a structured learning journey  tailored to their needs and interest areas,” said Cheryl Goh, Group Head of Marketing and Sustainability, Grab.   

    “The digital economy offers a range of possibilities and opportunities that can help businesses of all sizes be more resilient and grow. Mastercard is delighted to work with Grab on this initiative that will boost digital capacity and inclusion of aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses post-pandemic,” said Payal Dalal, Senior Vice President of Social Impact, International Markets, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth. 

    “Mastercard is globally committed to bring a total of 1 billion people and 50 million micro and small businesses into the digital economy by 2025. Today’s announcement follows on the success of Mastercard Academy 2.0 in Indonesia, Business Cell in Philippines, and BSR’s HER Project Digital Wage in Cambodia, and Care Ignite in Vietnam, which have empowered millions of small businesses to access technology, training, mentorship, and financial services,” she added.  

    Small businesses play a vital role in the Philippine, contributing up to 40% of GDP1. Despite 80-90% of small- and medium-sized enterprises in Southeast Asia losing income due to COVID-19 lockdowns, many were able to skirt this hit by going digital, with online businesses’ profits rebounding more quickly.  

    This resilience is what this micro-learning program seeks to bring to an abundance of small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs across the region.   

    The two new online courses, namely the Driver Entrepreneurship Toolkit and the Small Business Toolkit, were created based on survey insights from over 885 driver-partners and 100 small businesses in the country.  

    “I want to learn about the pricing and expenses – it seems complicated. Commodity prices fluctuate over time. As an entrepreneur, we should have training on how to price correctly so that you don’t lose money or go over budget,” said a 34 year old café owner from the Philippines.  

    A 43 year old Empanada seller from the Philippines added: “I don’t know what to post on my social media business channels and I’m unsure if my content is right for my audience.” 

    As for driver-partners, the three most sought-after training topics were 1) how to grow the business and increase profits (62%), 2) how to start a new business (59%); and 3) how to market the business online (30%).  

    “I’m interested to know how to start a business with just a small capital. Today, many people don’t have the budget due to the pandemic. I also want to know how to expand a business without having to shell out huge capital,” said a Grab driver-partner from the Philippines.  

    “I want to know the general knowledge on digital marketing because I don’t have basic knowledge on it. I also need to learn how to package items and the techniques and promotions on how to sell items,” added another driver-partner from the Philippines. 

    To meet these aspirations, Mastercard and Grab have engaged leading local small business experts, such as Tumbu, WISE, and Bayan Academy, to jointly develop the online courses.  

    The courses, which comprise 20 short  video lessons each, provide practical steps to address the challenges frequently faced by small businesses and first-time entrepreneurs.  

    It also features powerful and relevant insights from local industry experts and peer business owners, a preferred learning format by surveyed driver-partners and small business owners.  

    “In order for MSMEs to reach their highest potential, they must innovate – and digital innovation is what Grab and Mastercard’s initiative is all about,” said Basil Soriao, Executive Director, Bayan Academy for Social Entrepreneurship and Human Resource Development, Inc.  

    “It seeks to democratize access to digital innovation, equips MSMEs with knowledge and skills on the ways of achieving digital transformation, and empowers MSMEs to participate in the digital economy. These innovations allow MSMEs to grow and expand and contribute to the endeavor of building the nation from the bottom up.”  

    Through the Grab Driver and Merchant superapps, all Grab Partners can access the instructional videos for no cost on GrabAcademy.After completing each module, driver partners and small businesses will receive certificates of completion. 

  • Got your Globe eSIM already? 

    Got your Globe eSIM already? 

    Getting the eSIM is even easier through Globe’s digital platform – the New Globe Online Shop.  

    Yearning to take your digital experience a step further? With Globe’s eSIM, you can enjoy a seamless and convenient experience across several devices.  

    “Globe continues to be the forerunner of innovation in the country, driving adoption of digitalization. Offering eSIM on the New Globe Online Shop allows customers to easily adapt to this new technology,” said Coco Domingo, Vice President of Globe Postpaid and International Business.  

    Globe launched the eSIM in 2018, becoming the first to bring to market the integrated SIM chip embedded in mobile devices. It enabled seamless connections on mobile devices while advocating for a sustainable eco-conscious lifestyle.   

    The eSIM also supports sustainable living as it transitions customers from using plastic SIM cards. This small change can eventually have a big impact on the environment, in line with Globe’s sustainability advocacy.  

    In 2021, Globe then launched the eSIM-enabled ONENUMBER technology, the first in the Philippines, that allows customers to share the same number between their phones and watches, particularly on Apple devices.   

    This means that iPhone plan inclusions such as data allowance, calls, and texts are shared with a paired Apple Watch. Customers also get 1 additional GB per month when subscribed to ONENUMBER. No need to worry about leaving their phones behind as they will always be connected through their Apple Watch!  

    Globe also makes these devices available through incredible ways. You can get it at a discounted rate with GPlan Plus SIM-only, bundled with GPlan with device, or just the Apple device of your choice that comes with a free Globe Prepaid SIM and VR Goggles at SRP.  

    To get an iPhone 14 or Apple Watch with eSIM, just subscribe to Globe’s GPlan and choose eSIM as the preferred SIM type. Once the application is approved, customers will get the eSIM activation QR code through their registered email address.   

    They may also go to the nearest Globe Store to avail of the latest Apple devices with eSIM. Customers have different payment options such as charge to bill, zero interest on installment up to 36 months using select credit cards, and GCash’s installment offer GGives.   

    Globe was first to bring to the Philippines chat apps, streaming services, free access to social media platforms and a new “phygital” experience through the metaverse as it continues to pioneer digital innovations in the country.   

  • PDAX bares new tagline   

    PDAX bares new tagline   

    PDAX reiterates its commitment to introducing Filipinos to the financial future. 

    Since becoming the first virtual currency exchange operator licensed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in 2018, the Philippine Digital Asset Exchange has promoted cryptocurrency adoption and literacy. 

    For nearly half a decade, PDAX has given Filipinos everywhere the chance to easily buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies with just a few clicks of a button.   

    The “Choose PDAX!” tagline reflects the new and improved services offered by the exchange, upgrades to the PDAX app and web exchange, and continued service to the exchange’s clients.   

    One reason why Filipinos should choose PDAX is that the exchange is constantly striving to improve user experience on its platforms, ensuring seamless trading no matter what device you are using.   

    A recent brand refresh gives the web app a more easy-on-the-eye palette. The change coincides with the upgrade of PDAX’s mobile app which saw several changes to the app interface including new screens for its dashboard, and to its trade and cash-in and out functions to name a few.   

    Users will also be glad to know that trading is now easier with the previous Primary and Exchange wallet, now consolidated into just one PDAX wallet. Furthermore, all cryptocurrencies are also now accessible on the web exchange, similar to the mobile app.   

    These new improvements are meant to enhance the user experience and make it easier to access important functions when making crypto transactions.   

    PDAX makes sure its users can get to their assets easily. The exchange has partnered with over 30 cash-in and cash-out partners including Unionbank, PS Bank, AUB, Chinabank, PNB, and Instapay to name a few. Cash-ins are also available through Gcash, GrabPay, Maya, or Coins.ph. 

    PDAX is an easy one-stop shop for some of the world’s top cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and more. As of writing, PDAX offers mobile app users the ability to buy, sell, and trade 34 cryptocurrencies and counting.   

    Yet the opportunities for users don’t stop there. PDAX customers have the option to upgrade their accounts to Prime, which gives access to a total of 70 cryptocurrencies including exclusive, over-the-counter tokens.  

    This variety in tokens coupled with the convenience offered by the platform sees to it that Filipinos really get the most out of cryptocurrencies.  

    Users of PDAX know that they can enjoy the benefits above with peace of mind that the platform is safe, secure, and legitimate. Not only does the exchange employ layers of protection to protect user information on its exchange, but it also works closely with the BSP.  

    PDAX’s close cooperation with the BSP guarantees it complies with the policies and guidelines that protect a user’s assets.   

  • EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – Instarem APAC Head of Consumer Business Michael Minassian  

    EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW – Instarem APAC Head of Consumer Business Michael Minassian  

    Instarem is an app that allows you to send money overseas faster and at competitive exchange rates and low fees every time.     

    1. How did Instarem begin?  

    Instarem came about when CEO Prajit Nanu was on a holiday in Thailand, and he found himself struggling with hefty FX fees charged while paying by card. He was constantly frustrated by the long-drawn out process of overseas transactions made between banks.   

    Realising that many others shared the same concerns, Prajit was set on simplifying cross-border transactions and improving the payments experience for not only consumers, but businesses as well.   

    Instarem was founded in 2014. Instarem is now a part of NIUM, a global payments company with over 700 colleagues in 17 countries, which became a unicorn in 2021.  

    2. How many were the company’s initial products/services? How about today?  

    At the beginning, Instarem only offered cross-border payments across a few key markets.   

    Today, Instarem is a leading digital cross-border payments platform offering transfers to over 170 markets, 65 in real-time, bridging currency borders by making global money transfers quick, easy, and cost-effective. Instarem is a trusted licensed service provider with licenses in Australia, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, India, UK, US, EU, and Canada.  

    Instarem is constantly upgrading its offering based on customer insights.  

    In 2021, Instarem launched the amaze card, APAC’s first smart card, in Singapore. Post-pandemic, the amaze card is Singapore’s most sought after travel card. It allows users to link up to 5 Mastercard credit or debit cards and earns them rewards of up to 4 miles-per-dollar (mpd) as they spend.  

    Recently, Instarem introduced real-time payments to Malaysia and is one of the first players to have enabled real-time transfers into the country.  

    3. Would you define Instarem as a B2B or B2C company?  

    Instarem serves both individuals and businesses.  

    With customer-centric services, our mission is to grow and reinvent the cross-border payments industry for everyone. No matter the geographical location, everyone will benefit from an improved and digitalised payments system.   

    4. What region has Instarem seen the most growth opportunities at?  

    Instarem has seen most growth from APAC audiences around the world, sending money back to their home countries and from businesses making payments in the region.   

    With Prajit’s Asian roots and strong connection with the Asian community, Instarem is truly Asian at its core.   

    5. How did the pandemic affect your business? How did you adapt with the shifting business landscape?  

    To keep up in this era of digitalisation and constant entry of technological disruptors, Instarem continues to develop and innovate new services to stay relevant among our customers.  

    6. To date, how many customers has Instarem served overall?  

    Instarem does not disclose specific customer numbers.  

    7. Can you share the size of Instarem’s existing Filipino expat audiences? What services/features do they have the greatest demand for?  

    The majority of our Filipino customers work away from home and support their families back in the Philippines financially.    

    Funding their transfers via their credit card and having the option to collect these transfers in cash were important to our Filipino customers, so we introduced both options within Instarem.  

    Instarem has access to all banks and wallets through the Phillipine Instapay network.   

    8. In what countries is ‘cash payout’ available?   

    Instarem’s cash payouts are available exclusively for customers in the Philippines at over 21,000 locations across the Philippines with key agent partners including Palawan Pawnshops, Cebuana, M Lhuillier, LBC, and BDO. The cash payout option is available when sending money from Australia, Singapore, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, United Kingdom, Lithuania and the United States.  

    9. Are customers allowed to have multi-currency accounts?  

    Users can simply download the Instarem app on the App Store or Google Play Store and register for a free Instarem account. Upon verification of their account, Instarem users may start to transfer money quickly and securely through the Instarem app, allowing transfers to more than 170 countries.   

    10. Are there any plans soon to expand to other countries?  

    Instarem is always looking to deliver products customers need, regardless of where they are.   

    11. What are Instarem’s plans for the Philippine market?  

    Instarem has plans to launch a Philippine corridor, enabling instant, real-time payments to our Filipino customers.