ABN Newswire

GoConnect (ASX:GCN) Update on Development of Internet Connected TV Audience

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 17:13:57 GMT

Directors of GoConnect Ltd (ASX:GCN) are pleased to advise that the company's IPTV business channel, World Business Network, has just received approval from LG Inc. (SEO:066570) and has gone live on all LG Internet connected TVs sold globally. The World Business Network is available as a downloadable application on all Internet connected TVs of LG. It currently carries two programs, The Business Show, which distributes a series of sponsored business interviews conducted by Adam Shand, and the ABN Newswire business news programs. Additional business programs will be added in coming months. Including The World Business Network, this brings to six the number of downloadable applications that GCN has developed, and which have been approved by LG for distribution to the LG IPTV households globally.

Since inception, GCN's IPTV audience, gained through Internet connected TVs of Sony (NYSE:SNE) and LG, have to-date attracted an audience of over 52,000 households, with over 70 per cent of that from the international markets outside of Australia. Based on industry statistics of 2.5 people per TV household, this translates to an IPTV audience reach of 130,000 people, a useful addition to the GCN advertising network that the company is building. However, the potential growth of this audience is still relatively untapped.

Based on TV industry sources, by the end of 2012, we expect the number of Internet connected TVs that will carry GCN's IPTV applications and premium channel uctv.fm will have grown to about 50 million units, potentially delivering an audience reach of 125 million people worldwide. This audience reach does not include that from smartphone and desktop PC users with smartphone expected to be increasing in its acceptance for video viewing by the IPTV audience on the move. With GCN's IPTV applications and channels available on the three screens of desktop PCs, smartphones, and Internet connected TVs worldwide, GCN is well positioned to benefit from the exponential growth and increasing popularity of IPTV connected devices and networks.

GCN has first mover advantages in the IPTV industry, having first launched its patented IPTV application GoTrek in the year 2000 and GoTrek's derivative m-Vision for the first generation smartphone in 2003. Capitalising on the company's proprietary technologies, expertise and experience in IPTV to expand the company's audience reach, GCN has now also added to its IPTV strategy free Wi-Fi network (wireless internet) and a strong China focus.

About ABN Newswire

Asia Business News (ABN Newswire) is a leading communications technology company in Asia, and electronically publishes and distributes corporate and financial news and information from publicly listed companies directly to investors and financial media outlets worldwide through a professional database network and financial news distribution platform. Operations are tailored for corporate Investor Relations departments and corporate Public Relations departments through the ABN Newswire.

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GoConnect Limited
Tel: +613-9993-7000
http://www.goconnect.com.au

ABN Newswire
Tel: +612-9247-4344
http://www.abnnewswire.net

Hynix (SEO:000660) Posts Record Q1 Earnings on Strong DRAM Prices

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 10:00:00 GMT

South Korea's Hynix Semiconductor Inc. (SEO:000660), the world's No. 2 memory chipmaker, posted the highest first quarter earnings in its history with a 2.82 trillion won registered sales. The company posted a 799.1 billion won operating profit on a consolidated basis, compared to an operating loss of 514.6 billion won a year earlier, thanks to strong chip prices.

Hynix also said the average selling price of its DRAM chips rose 3 per cent in the first quarter after rising 26 per cent in the fourth quarter. Its prices of NAND flash memory chips, which are used in music players and digital cameras, fell 8 per cent, compared with a 5 per cent drop in the fourth quarter.

It is widely expected that DRAM makers will continue to see good profits in the coming quarters as chip prices might remain solid due to strong PC demand and global supply is likely to be tight this year. Japan's Elpida Memory Inc.(TYO:6665) Wednesday forecasted that it could be back to its first net profit in three years, helped by the rise in memory chips prices. Elpida posted a 178.9 million yen net loss for the previous fiscal year.

But Hynix indicated that the company is cautiously optimistic on outlook for the rest of 2010, given economic uncertainties in global market.

Michelle Liang
Asia Business News Asia Bureau
Tel: +61-2-9247-4344
Email: michelle.liang@abnnewswire.net

Australian Market Report of February 24: Cautious Ahead Bernanke Testimony

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:30:45 GMT

The Australian share market finished almost unchanged on Tuesday as weakness in resources stocks offset gains in the banking sector. Asian markets were lower yesterday ahead of testimony by US Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke. The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index edged up 0.8 points or 0.02 per cent, at 4718.3 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index had slipped 1.7 points, or 0.04 per cent, lower to 4731.

Key Economic Facts and Figures

Australian Bureau of Statistics Wednesday is set to release labour price index and data of construction work done, both for December quarter.

M&A News

Amcom Telecommunications Ltd (ASX:AMM) is proposed to acquire voice and communications technology provider, IP Systems, for up to A$20.5 million. The company said strategic acquisition expands Amcom's product range into enterprise voice solutions and increases Amcom's addressable market. Initial consideration for the acquisition will be A$6.5 million, consisting of A$5.3 million in cash and 4.1 million Amcom shares at A$0.30 cents each.

Important Corporate News

Gloucester Coal Ltd (ASX:GCL) said net profit for the six months to December 31 was to A$18.1 million, which it said was within expectations and mainly caused by a fall in the price of coal. Net profit for the first half of the 2008/09 financial year was A$44 million, when coking coal prices were at historic highs. Gloucester Coal says the outlook for the company remains positive, with the outlook for coking coal very strong.

Consolidated Media Holdings (ASX:CMJ) reported net profit for the first half of 2009/10 of A$346.20 million, compared to A$391.54 million in the previous corresponding half. The result included proceeds from the sale of its interest in jobs website SEEK and the disposal of investment property. Significantly higher interest revenue'' from the company's cash balance and lower head office costs also contributed to the result.

Packaging company Amcor (ASX:AMC) reported net profit before significant items was up 3 per cent to A$172.5 million The company expects earnings from its biggest business, flexible packaging for food, tobacco and medicines, should improve in the second half from a year earlier, bolstered by cost cuts. The takeover is also expected to substantially boost the company's second-half profit and produce savings through synergies of up to A$250 million over the next three years.

Ridley Corporation Ltd (ASX:RIC) posted a net profit of A$14.9 million for the six months to December 31, up from a loss of $50 million in the previous corresponding period. Ridley also upgraded its profit guidance. It now expects after tax profit for the full year in the range of A$28 million to A$30 million, depending largely upon the status of the dairy sector.

Aristocrat Leisure's (ASX:ALL) calendar 2009 loss was A$157.84 million, largely due to A$274.3 million of abnormal charges, including a $187.3 million provision for a litigation. Aristocrat said its operating profit, before abnormal items, tax and minority interests, was A$116.4 million. The company says 2010 is going to be another tough year, as operational performance would continue to be affected by macro-economic factors, and the company was not expecting broader growth in key global markets before 2011.

Michelle Liang
Asia Business News Asia Bureau
Tel: +61-2-9247-4344
Email: michelle.liang@abnnewswire.net

Asian Markets Overview of February 12

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:30:14 GMT

Wall Street Thursday rallied overnight as European leaders pledged to help Greece avert its sovereign debt crisis. US labour data gave the market a further boost. The Labour Department's report that first-time claims for jobless benefits fell more than expected last week also supported the market.

Asian markets were higher Thursday. Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index gained 1.9 per cent and South Korea's Kospi advanced 1.8 per cent. China's Shanghai Composite closed flat with thin trade ahead of the upcoming Lunar New Year, despite a slower than CPI growth eased worries of rate increase.

Company News

Dutch printer maker Oce NV (AMS:OCE) has revised its strategic alliance with Konica Minolta Holdings Inc (TYO:4902), due to the public offer made by Japan's Canon Inc (TYO:7751). Canon announced plans to acquire a 100% stake in Oce last November. Oce and Konica Minolta have stopped their joint development activities, but reached a new OEM sales agreement.

Rio Tinto Ltd. (ASX:RIO) reported full year net profit rose 33% to US$4.87 billion from US$3.7 billion in the prior year. The company restated guidance for a total cash dividend in 2010 at least equal to the payout of US$1.75 billion in 2008. The result beats market expectations with a turnaround in a turbulent year. The company was upbeat on its forecasts for 2010, saying it was experiencing a broad uplift in demand for its commodities.

Korea Life Insurance Co. (SEO:088350), the No.2 life insurer of South Korea, said Thursday it is targeting to raise up to KRW2.31 trillion in its initial public offering in March, which will be one of the largest-ever IPOs in the country. It set an indicative price range at KRW9,000-KRW11,000 per share for the IPO.

Bank of East Asia Ltd.'s (HKG:0023) said that net profit in the 12 months ended Dec. 31 rose sharply to HK$2.57 billion from HK$39 million in 2008. The lender's non-interest income totalled HK$3.44 billion in 2009, compared with a non-interest expense of HK$336 million in 2008. The lender said it will focus on boosting its operations in China.

Singapore-listed sports marketing company RSH Ltd. (SIN:R04) Thursday said majority shareholder Golden Ace Pte. Ltd., which is an indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai's Emaar Properties (DFM:EMAAR), has mandated DBS Bank for a possible sale of its shareholding in the company. The Dubai-based property giant's 61.3 per cent stake in the RSH Holdings is currently valued at US$164 million.

Michelle Liang
Asia Business News Asia Bureau
TEL: +61-2-9247-4344
Email: michelle.liang@abnnewswire.net

VODone Limited (HKG:0082) To Be The First To Broadcast Real-Time Live Video New Media About The Hong Kong Stock Market

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Mon, 18 May 2009 13:32:57 GMT

VODone Limited (HKG:0082)(PINK:VODOF) is pleased to announce that it has launched an internet financial video broadcasting program named "Stock, Stock? Stock!" which features experts' analysis on China and Hong Kong stock markets, thus becoming the first internet new media in China to providea real-time interactive online program on Hong Kong stocks.

Public concern and enthusiasm for the stock market remain intact despite the global financial crisis. Recovery in the Hong Kong stock market in May 2009 further ignited a new round of passion and buying. To provide real-time and reliable stock analysis for investors around the world together with considerate service, www.vodone.com initiated "Stock, Stock? Stock!" internet real-time broadcasting on 18 May 2009, which comprises "HK Stock Express" and "A Share Focus", to share the wisdom of numerous experts in the stock market.

The Program is designed to bring better service to investors through online enquiries on an interactive platform through VODone's advantages in internet video broadcasting. "HK Stock Express" and "A Share Focus"? are on air every Monday to Friday at 13:30 -14:00 and 14:30 -15:30 respectively, presenting analysis on the market and forecasts from experts during prime time.

VODone is honored to invite acclaimed international financial expert Professor Patrick Wong as the planner and organiser of "HK Stock Express", and have renowned guests to offer real-time analysis of Hong Kong stock market, including Mandy Lam (Director of OSK), Eugene Law(Research Head of CASH Financial Services Group), Steve Cheng(Associated Director of Shenyin & Wanguo Securities (Hong Kong) Limited), Ivan Ho(Director of Stock Derivatives and Private Investment of ABN-AMRO) and Anthony Lam (Vice President of Emperor Capital Group Limited Research Department).

To further facilitate the financial cooperation of the Mainland and Hong Kong, on 9 May 2009, Jiang Zengwei, Vice Minister of Ministry of Commerce, and John Tsang Chun-wah, Financial Secretary of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region signed Supplementary Agreement 6 to Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement between Mainland of China and Hong Kong (CEPA), while Guangdong province will be the forerunner of such arrangements. Lee Yiu Sun, Chairman of Hong Kong Stockbrokers Association Limited, has expressed his welcome to the permission provided by the new agreements of CEPA for Hong Kong brokers to cooperate with Mainland companies in establishing securities consultant firms in Guangzhou.

Currently, there are hundreds of millions of investors in China, but domestic individual investors' understanding of the stock market is at a preliminary stage, especially the Hong Kong market, and its market rules. Therefore, more expertise and guides are needed. "H Share Express" of the Program stands up right to the needs. Hong Kong local authoritative comment is the brightest feature of "HK Stock Express" of the Program, which is to bridge the financial sectors of Mainland China and Hong Kong to serve millions of Chinese investors.

The Program will provide professional analysis and comments on trends, hot topics in the market and analysis on specific shares that investors are likely to be most concerned about for the day. Also the popular and classic tactics and experts' unique techniques will be publicised, to advice and help investors to grasp opportunities, avoid risks and maximise return at the first instant. Meanwhile, the interactive platform featuring real-time post and SMS inquiry will provide access to investment experts who will give solutions on site.

Furthermore, VODone will integrate the marketing of the Program with VODone Community, Domouse Platform and VODone Broadcasting Union System (BUS) to draw upon the synergy of new generation media, aiming to develop long-term audience of the Program from hundreds of thousands of loyal users of the VODone Community. Meanwhile, the Program to cover network and TVoM terminals will be simultaneously available on the portal of VODone, TVoM and Microsoft's MSN China.

The Program has multiple profit modes: apart from webpage advertisement, embedded video, text advertisement and program name sponsorship, value-added products are provided including Hong Kong stock real-time video package and TVoM package, as well as "MMS Stock Express on the Mobile Phone". Mobile phone users in China can order the Program either through one-off payment or a monthly package. The program will gradually launch VIP packages targeting Hong Kong shares analysis for customized industries, regions, time and audience, to contribute effective turnover through service fees.

According to Dr. Zhang Lijun, Chairman of VODone, "In view of the vast opportunities in the China stock market, VODone will capture the huge market to continuously innovate its marketing mode by virtue of its qualification and platform strengths. We are committed to providing better service for Chinese investors."

VODone Broadband is VODone's own platform for broadcasting self-produced programmes and those of its cooperative partners. Its live, news, entertainment, finance and sports programmes are increasingly popular among netizens. VODone's UGC platform allows users to upload content to the web and its cooperation with Microsoft Network China (msn.vodone.com) has gained encouraging response as evidenced by over 2,000 programmes being uploaded by different users everyday. VODone also has its own professional team with technical experts in production, broadcasting and transmission, enabling it to broadcast live videos via Internet and satellite. So far, VODone has broadcasted thousands of domestic and international political, economic, cultural and commercial activities over the Internet. VODone is broadcasting China to the world and the world to China. VODone Portal also has popular gaming and shopping channels catering the needs of netizens.

VODone is determined to become the largest Internet news broadcasting platform in China, integrating upscale lifestyle channels with the functions of media and community.

This press release is distributed by Wonderful Sky Financial Group Limited on behalf of VODone Limited.

Wonderful Sky Financial Group Limited
Joanne Chan
E-mail: joannechan@wsfg.hk

Miranda Fok 
Email: mirandafok@wsfg.hk

Bianca Tse
Email: biancatse@wsfg.hk

Tel :+852-2851-1038 
Fax :+852-2815-1352

Mobile Data Group wins Deloitte Technology Fast 50 award

newsroom@abnnewswire.net — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:00:22 GMT

Mobile Data Group, has ranked 1st in Australia in the 2007 Deloitte Technology Fast 50 awards, achieving 10,237 per cent revenue growth over the last three years.

The Deloitte Technology Fast 50 ranks the 50 fastest growing technology companies, public or private, based on percentage revenue growth over three years (2005-2007) and includes all related industry sectors: communications; software; semiconductors, components and electronics; life sciences; internet; and computer peripherals.

Mobile Data Group is a leading mobile entertainment company providing mobile content, applications and solutions to clients in more than 26 countries.

Providing end to end mobile solutions in the area of mobile entertainment and mobile commerce, Mobile Data Group offers a full solution from mobile content provision (through the likes of ringtones, wallpapers, games and screensavers) to applications development, deployment, distribution and end user.

Marc Carr, CEO of Mobile Data Group said the company has become a one stop shop for clients who wish to enter and be more effective in the mobile space effortlessly, quickly and successfully.

"Our significant growth is a result of our unique product offerings and ability to mix and match components to suit our clients' requirements."

"We cater to not only clients new to the mobile space, looking for a full service offering, but also to those clients who already have comprehensive, established mobile offerings and are looking to achieve deeper, more effective penetration of their mobile campaigns."

"According to the latest iSuppli statistics, global revenues from premium mobile content will exceed $44 billion (U.S.) in 2011."

"Mobile Data Group is especially well placed to take advantage of this massive growth through our current modular offerings and our in-house R&D team, producing not only content but applications surrounding this.

We are thus in a position to offer our clients even greater leverage and opportunities to profit from the mobile space," Mr Carr said.

Deloitte Technology, Media and Telecommunications partner Julia Bickerstaff said the growth of Mobile Data Group has been astounding.

"With the global tech sector recovery, Australia is leading the region and the future is looking very bright for Mobile Data Group."

Mobile Data Group maintains an extremely large high quality licensed mobile content library and provides business partners with the expertise and mobile technology infrastructure to maximise a return potential via mobile content supply, business solutions including mobile marketing and advertising campaigns, as well as individually targeted mobile business solutions specific to particular partner requirements.

Contact:

Julia Bickerstaff
TMT Partner - Fast 50 Program
Mob: 0414 790 288
Tel: (02) 9322 7134
jbickerstaff@deloitte.com.au

Dale Carr
Joint CEO
Mob: 0416 123 132
Tel: (02) 9386 0471
dcarr@mobiledatagroup.com