Asian Activities Report for January 20, 2012: Tencent (HKG:0700) Invests in Level Up to Explore Online Game Markets in Brazil and the Philippines

China's largest and most used Internet service provider Tencent Holdings Limited (HKG:0700) has signed an agreement to acquire 49% interest in Level Up for US$26.95 million. Level Up is one of the leading game publishers and operators in Brazil and the Philippines. As of 30 November 2011, the consolidated total assets of Level Up were approximately US$32.3 million and net assets were approximately US$19.0 million. Tencent believes that the investment in Level Up will help Tencent identify opportunities in the online game sector in Brazil and the Philippines.

Asia Resources Holdings Limited (HKG:0899) says that its iron ore mine in Indonesia has commenced trial production in January 2012. An initial 5,000 metric tonnes of raw iron sand have been exploited and are currently under processing. Alongside with the trial production, the Group will commence marketing activities targeting both local and overseas customers for the sales of its iron sand.

Eisai Co., Ltd. (TYO:4523) will launch LIFE CHECK, a self-monitoring blood glucose meter on January 27, 2012. LIFE CHECK has been specially designed for ease-of-use by elderly diabetes patients. The sensor is easily inserted into the meter and has been designed to ensure that drops of blood from pierced fingertips can be easily applied. LIFE CHECK can even be used simply by diabetes patients who experience numbness and trembling in their hands and fingers.

Nihon Kohden Corporation (TYO:6849) announced the establishment of a 100%-owned subsidiary in Brazil, for the sales and after-sales support of medical devices. The sales subsidiary will aim to expand the market in Brazil, one of the major markets in Latin America, and to enhance brand image and provide tailored customer services. Operations will commence in April 2012.

NTT Data Corporation (TYO:9613) has commenced to provide supportive services, including ATM software and settlement networks, to regional banks in Japan whose ATMs are ready to accept China UnionPay cards. The Bank of Kyoto (TYO:8369) has become the first regional bank to adopt NTT Data's supportive services, and now provides cash withdrawal and balance inquiry services for China UnionPay card holders. The services will ensure that Chinese visitors can enjoy an even more pleasant shopping experience in Japan.


Related Companies

The Bank of Kyoto, Ltd.
     

Tencent Holdings Limited
     

NTT Data Corporation
      

Nihon Kohden Corporation
     

Eisai Co., Ltd
      

Asia Resources Holdings Limited