Terrapinn buys Australia’s Digital Health Festival

Australia, 1st September: Terrapinn announced the company has acquired Digital Health Festival (DHF), an event for health professionals in Australia committed to a digital future. No financial details of the acquisition have been disclosed.

DHF takes place in Melbourne in May, which is the claimed to be the largest events of its type in the southern hemisphere, featuring 350 exhibitors, 125 start-ups and 400 speakers, attracting 8,000 attendees.

Hamish Steel, CEO and founder, Digital Health Festival, was quoted, “Terrapinn gets DHF and has all that is needed to take the show to the next level. We are confident that they will grow the show, serve the community and be a great home to our team. We are delighted to bring the quality of Digital Health Festival to our stable of international life science and health events.”

Alibaba’s profit jumps 76% in June quarter 2025

Hangzhou, 29th August: Last week, Alibaba Group, China’s largest e-commerce company, announced its results for the quarter ended 30th June 2025. The company recorded revenues of US$35 billion, an increase of 2% year-on-year.

The company’s profit posted a rise of 76% over the same quarter in 2024, reaching US$5.9 billion. Diluted earnings per share in the quarter were RMB 2.25 (US$0.31). The company attributed the increase in profits to mark-to market changes from its equity investments and gain from the disposal of local consumer service business of Trendyol.

In terms of its B2B business, revenues from the China commerce whole of the Alibaba China E-commerce Group, primarily generated through 1688.com, were US$937 million, an increase of 13% over the same quarter last year. While the International commerce whole from the Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group, primarily from Alibaba.com, generated revenues of US$886 million, also up 13% year-on-year. In total, the B2B business only accounted for 5.3% of Alibaba Group’s total revenues.

In terms of the business segment, the largest segment was the Alibaba China E-commerce Group, accounted for 57% of the total revenues, amounting at US$20 billion. The Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group was the second largest segment, generated revenues of US$4.9 billion, and accounted for 14% of the total revenues. The remaining revenues were generated from the Cloud Intelligent Group (US$4.7 billion) and other businesses.

Eddie Wu, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, stated, “This quarter, our strategic focus on consumption and AI + Cloud delivered strong growth. Our decisive investment in the quick commerce business achieved key milestones as we won consumer mindshare. We generated substantial synergies from combining resources of our consumer platforms which resulted in new highs in monthly active consumers and daily order volume. Driven by robust AI demand, Cloud Intelligence Group experienced accelerated revenue growth, and AI-related product revenue is now a significant portion of revenue from external customers. Looking ahead, we remain committed to investing in our two strategic pillars of consumption and AI + Cloud to capture historic opportunities and drive long-term growth.”

DLG’s posts decreases in first half

Shanghai, 28th August: DLG Exhibitions & Events (formerly Shanghai Lansheng Corporation) has recently reported its financial results for the six months ended 30th June 2025. Revenues in the first half of the year were US$77 million, representing a year-on-year decrease of 6.2%.

The company’s net profit dropped 31% year-on-year, down to US$7.9 million in the first half of 2025. Diluted earnings per share in the first half of the year were RMB 0.08 (US$0.011).

In the reported period, the company hosted or co-hosted 11 exhibitions, featuring some 684,000 m2. Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center, the venue operated by DLG, hosted 35 exhibitions and events, with a total rental area of 4.27 million m2.

Sino Splendid posts a profit

Hong Kong, 29th August: Also last week, Hong Kong-listed company Sino Splendid (formerly China.com) released its results for the six months ended 30th June 2025. Revenues during the period were US$2.4 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 1.5%. The company recorded a net profit of US$323,000 in the first half of 2025, compared with a loss of US$768,000 in the first half in 2024. Diluted earnings per share in the six-month period were HK$0.017 (US$0.0022).

Majority of Sino Splendid’s revenues were generated from the Financial Magazine and Other Media Business, amounting at US$2.3 million, which is flat with the first half of last year. The remaining revenues were generated from its Money Lending segment (US$55,000), the Securities Investment segment (US$45,000), and the Travel Media segment (US$44,600).

The company claimed the increase in revenues was mainly due to the increase in revenues from the travel media business, which increased 46%.

In the future, the company will improve its operation efficiency and profitability of its business. It will also seek opportunities to expand its customer base and its market share and undertake more projects.

Quick takes

New Director appointment of MIPIM

RX France has appointed Nicolas Boffie as its new Director of MIPIM, the global urban festival. Boffi has over 20 years of experience in real estate and urban development, working across project management, business development and public affairs. With his experience, he will strengthen MIPIM’s position as the global forum. In addition, MIPIM will introduce new content initiatives to support real estate’s transformation, from a stronger focus on AI disruption and to the road to net zero, to help industry leaders turn technological change into strategic advantage.

RX appoints Global Head of Digital Product Development

International exhibition organiser, RX Global, announced the promotion of Jamie Harrison, Senior Vice President, Product Development, to be the new Head of Digital Product Development. In the new position, he will continue his current responsibilities of leading RX’s global product development, and he will also lead digital innovation, customer insights, and commercial product opportunities across the business.

Netsun’s revenues up, but deepen loss

Shenzhen-listed Zhejiang Netsun, a B2B e-commerce platform, has released its financial results for the six months ended 30th June 2025. The company’s revenues were US$43 million during the period, representing an increase of 26% over the first half of 2024. However, the company posted a net loss of US$982,000, compared with a loss of US$421,000 in the first half of 2024. The company attributed the loss to its strategic adjustment of its supply chain service business, leading to a decrease in supply chain service revenues and interest income.

New BeautySum India 2025 launches in New Delhi

Organised by Messe Esang, exhibition management company in South Korea, the inaugural BeautySum India 2025 was held at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre) in Dwarka, New Delhi. Running from 28th to 30th August, the event covered an exhibition area of about 9,600 m2, providing a platform for beauty innovation, collaboration, and trade.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Messe Frankfurt launches International Smart Space Exhibition in Hangzhou

Hangzhou, 21st August: The inaugural International Smart Space Exhibition (ISSE) will be held as a standalone fair at the Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE). Running from 25th to 29th September 2025, the co-located fairs will take place at the Hangzhou Grand Convention and Exhibition Center in China.

Jointly organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and Hangzhou Expo Group, ISSE will be displayed in four focus areas: Intelligent Buildings and Smart Parks; Urban Public Spaces; Smart Commercial Spaces; and Smart Living. It will bring together leading companies and international standards organisations, showcasing innovative technologies and products in the smart space field.

Apart from the exhibition, ISSE will also host a series of forums designed to create a premium platform for industry dialogue that fosters the exchange of ideas and collaboration on technology.

HC narrows loss in first half

Hong Kong, 22nd August: Last week, Hong Kong-listed HC Group released its interim results for the six months ended 30th June 2025. The company’s revenues increased slightly by 1.8% year-on-year, amounting at US$838 million. The company also posted its net loss decreased from US$7.6 million in the first half of 2024, down to US$3.2 million recorded in the first half of 2025.

The company attributed the loss during the reported period to the share of post-tax losses of associates.

In terms of business segment, more than 97% of HC Group’s revenues were generated from its smart industries segment, amounting to US$816 million. Revenues from this segment grew 1.2% from the first half of 2024. The remaining revenues were generated from HC’s technology-driven new retail segment (US$23 million), which increased by 30% year-on-year.

In short term, the company continues to review its development strategies and make timely adjustments to its business, operating and cost structure, to focus on its resources on more promising areas and achieve sustainable development of its business. In mid-to long-term, the company will optimize its competitiveness to better seize opportunities by giving special focus on the opportunities for industrial upgrading driven by AI technology, and reconstructing its traditional business models through AI technology to continuously optimize resource allocation.

CCID Consulting’s profit up 12%

Beijing, 22nd August: CCID Consulting, a research and information service provider in China, has announced its financial results for the first half of 2025. Revenues were US$18 million, up 6.7% from the first half of 2024. The company’s net profit posted a year-on-year growth 12%, reaching US$6.0 million. Earnings per share in the six-month period were RMB 0.0639 (US$0.0089).

More than 72% of CCID’s revenues were generated from its Decision-making consulting services, amounting to US$13 million. This segment increased by 20% year-on-year. The second largest business segment was CCID’s Science and technology innovation platform services, generating revenues of US$3.0 million, and accounting for about 16% of the company’s total revenues. This segment dropped 15% from the first half of 2024. The remaining revenues were generated from its Data platform services (US$2.0 million), which decreased by 18% from the same period last year.

The company stated the increase of revenues from its Decision-making consulting services was mainly due to the transformation and upgrading of its consulting business. The company also promoted project acceptance and settlement, leading to an increase in the business volume of the consulting segment.

In the future, the company will continue to deepen and practical implement the Business 3.0 strategy; deeply explore two major customer groups and pursuing new growth opportunities; and continuously enhance its technological attributes.

IATA to hold World Sustainability Symposium in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, 14th August: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced to hold its World Sustainability Symposium (WSS) in Asia for the first time. The third WSS will take place in Hong Kong, running from 21st to 22nd October 2025, hosted by Cathay Pacific.

WSS will gather leader from aviation, energy, finance, and policy to advance the industry’s commitment to achieving net zero CO2 emission by 2050. WSS will follow the 42nd International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly at which the industry will have advocated for stronger government policies to support aviation’s energy transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the integrity of Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). It will also precede COP30 which is focusing on turning pledges into actions.

WSS will focus on removing hurdles standing in the way of expanding SAF production; attracting financing for the US$4.7 trillion cost of decarbonization; integrating emerging technology developments by existing players and start-ups; and increasing collaboration across the value chain.

Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said, “We are at a crucial point. Airlines are fully committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. But we have not seen sufficient, timely action by policymakers, aerospace manufacturers, oil companies, or fuel producers to support this commitment. This event is an essential rallying call for all those who have a stake in air transport’s future to overcome any challenges in the way of accelerating the pace of this crucial energy transition.”

Quick takes

Thailand updates its tourist arrivals forecasts

Thailand’s central economic planning agency, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has recently released its 2Q2025 Economic Report, showing Thailand’s tourism sector is slowing although earnings continue to rise. The latest forecast of international arrivals in 2025 are projected at 33 million, down from 35.5 million in 2024 and below earlier forecasts.

Macau welcome 3m+ visitor arrivals in July

Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) its latest report of visitor arrivals in July 2025. A total of 3,458,366 visitor arrivals to Macau were recorded in July, increased by 15% year-on-year. Same-day visitors grew by 24%, reaching 1,980,732, while overnight visitors were 1,477,634, up 3.7%.

2025 Sydney Boat Show at new location

The 2025 Sydney Boat Show concluded at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park for the first time, attracting 23,525 attendees from 14th to 17th August 2025. Covering an exhibition area of 21,000 m2, more than 130 exhibitors presenting some 400 boats and accessories, gadgets and technologies.

135 exhibitors at GPCE Melbourne 2025

General Practice Conference & Exhibition (GPCE) Melbourne 2025 featured a total of 135 exhibitors, showcasing the latest in allied health, medical devices, software, pharmaceuticals. The event was held from 11th to 13th July, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), attracting some 1,046 healthcare professionals.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Macau hosts 900+ MICE events in first half

Macau, 19th August: Earlier this week, Macau’s Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) reported its MICE statistics for the first half of 2025. Macau held a total of 918 MICE events in the six months, which represents 208 events more than the first half of 2024. However, the total number of participants and attendees in the first half of 2025 dropped 11% year-on-year, down to 427,900.

Of the 918 events, 863 were meetings and conferences, up by 197 from the first half of 2024. The total number of participants at meetings and conferences increased by 6.7%, reaching 81,700 participants. A total of 27 exhibitions were held in the first half of 2025, which was one more than the same period last year. However, the number of attendees decreased by 14%, down to 342,600. The total gross area occupied by these exhibitions was 211,100 m2, up 14.5% year-on-year.

DSEC also provided its MICE statistics for the second quarter of 2025. A total of 480 MICE events were held in Macau during the quarter, which is 106 events more than the same quarter in 2024. The total number of participants and attendees declined by 24% year-on-year, amounting at 228,100 participants.

Baidu’s profit up 33% in Q2

Beijing, 20th August: Baidu, the leading Chinese language Internet search provider, has recently released its financial results for the quarter ended 30th June 2025. Revenues for the quarter were US$4.6 billion, down 4% from the second quarter of 2024. However, the company posted a profit growth of 33% year-on-year, reaching US$1.02 billion in the quarter.

About 53% of its total revenues (US$2.4 billion) were generated from Baidu’s online marketing services, which was down by 15% year-on-year. The remaining revenues were generated from “other services”, amounting to US$2.1 billion. This represents a growth of 14% over the second quarter of 2024.

Baidu also reported its financial results for the six months ended 30th June. Revenues in the first half of 2025 were US$9.1 billion, flat with the first half of 2024. Profit in the six-month period grew 38%, reaching US$2.1 billion. Diluted earnings per share in the first half of the year were RMB 5.24 (US$0.73).

Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu, said, “In the second quarter, our AI Cloud business continued to deliver robust and healthy revenue growth, supported by our strengthening full-stack AI capabilities and comprehensive end-to-end AI products and solutions. This performance helped mitigate the near-term pressure on online marketing business, as we intensified the AI transformation of Baidu Search to elevate user experience and establish a stronger foundation for long-term growth. Apollo Go accelerated global expansion while actively exploring new business models, underscored by our leadership in both left-hand drive and right-hand drive robotaxi markets globally. We remain focused on AI initiatives that offer the greatest long-term value creation potential, where our technology and innovation can make the most meaningful and lasting impact.”

PICC to reopen in October after renovation

Manila, 7th August: Opened in 1976, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) announced to undergo an extensive renovation.

During the renovation, PICC has closed temporarily for 5 months, the venue is being restored and readied to bring people together in celebration, partnership and dialogue come October 2025.

Atty. Nicolette Ann P. Cruz, General Manager of the PICC, was quoted, “Every form and feature of the PICC is a play on juxtapositions. Through the renovation, the PICC hopes to bring both physical and sentimental appreciation of this historical and cultural masterpiece to new heights. Entrusted to the hands of renowned experts in the fields of art and architecture, infrastructure, interior design, engineering and construction is the challenge of harmonizing heritage with innovation and aligning preservation with progress.”

Steen Jakobsen appointed new CEO of GainingEdge

Australia, 14th August: GainingEdge, the leading global tourism and business events industry consulting firm, has announced the appointment of Steen Jakobsen as the company’s new CEO, effective 1st September 2025.

Jakobsen has more than 25 years of international experience in the global tourism and business events industry. He has served on various international boards and committees, including as Board Chair of the BestCities Global Alliance and Vice President of the Board of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

GainingEdge Executive Chairman, Gary Grimmer, commented, “Steen brings enormous business and communications acumen to our company, and a strong strategic vision in areas like destination development, sales and marketing, product innovation and event management. He also brings clear vision, leadership skills and broad networks that will help us to power global destination and association communities. Steen knows how to work with both public and private stakeholders to build the economic and societal impact of meetings and events.”

Quick takes

Deutsche Messe expects a strong second half

International exhibition organiser, Deutsche Messe, expects a strong second half year in 2025, due to its leading trade fairs to be held in the period. In the second half of 2025, the company will host a total of 28 events, in which four are premiers and new to its portfolio.

BCEC appoints new Facilities Director

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) appointed Cliff Jones as its new Facilities Director. He will replace Ian Chalmers who has transitioned into a new role as he approaches retirement. He will bring his experience in large commercial organisations and hospitality sectors across Australia and Asia. In his new role, Jones will join the Executive Leadership team, taking on responsibility for the Building Services, Facilities Management and Security and Safety, and Sustainability and Community Engagement.

Hyve names new Portfolio Director for CWIEME

Hyve Group, London-based event organiser, announced Melissa Magestro has been appointed as Portfolio Director for CWIEME, Hyve’s global engineering series of events. Melissa has more than 20 years of experience across global B2B industries, with deep expertise in the manufacturing sector. She succeeds Chris Lee, who is moving abroad.

Haymarket launches new title – In.Comms

Haymarket Media Group, privately-owned media, data and information company, will launch a brand-new title, In.Comms. Position as a sister title of PRWeek, In.Comms will focus on the needs of comms teams working within organisations and brands, covering content from external communications and corporate affairs to internal comms. To be launched on 23rd September 2025, In.Comms will have its own dedicated team of journalists, lead by Claire Warren, and she will continue to edit Management Today.

Share price movement in B2B media companies involved in Asia

Figure 1: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement over past 12 months)

Figure 2: BSG B2B Media Index vs. All Tracked B2B Stocks (price movement since January 2025)

Tech Research Asia joins Informa TechTarget’s Omdia

London, 7th August: Informa TechTarget’s Omdia announced to expand its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region with the addition of the Tech Research Asia (TRA) team.

The TRA team will join Omdia’s operations in key APAC markets to strengthen Omdia’s ability to serve clients with deep regional insight, established enterprise relationships, and recognized expertise across the partner and channel landscape.

The addition of TRA will build on Omdia’s established strength in channel and enterprise IT. It will also deepen Omdia’s capabilities in advising technology vendors and partners, reinforcing its leadership in delivering trusted insights across global markets.

Bill Morelli, President of Omdia, commented, “Bringing the TRA team into Omdia marks an important step for our team. Their deep understanding of the enterprise and channel landscape in APAC significantly strengthens our regional offering. As we expand our community and support more clients across the region, their expertise will be a major asset.”

iQIYI seeks for second listing in Hong Kong

Hong Kong, 7th August: iQIYI, Chinese online entertainment platform owned by Baidu, is seeking to raise US$300 million for a listing in Hong Kong this year. However, the company declined to comment.

According to Bloomberg, IQIYI is currently listed in the U.S. and is exploring a secondary listing in Hong Kong.

iQIYI, with an estimated of over 400 million monthly active users, offers a wide range of content from Chinese historical drams to major Hollywood movies. The company generated revenues of HK$8.13 billion (US$1.05 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, which is a year-on-year growth of 9%. However, the net profit declined 72%, down to HK$205 million (US$26 million).