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Japan's Nikkei rises as AI-related stocks shine; defence shares fall on China's export curbs
By Junko Fujita TOKYO, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average rose on Tuesday as trading resumed after a long holiday weekend, with AI-related stocks rallying on expectation of further investment in AI infrastructure after a report of a possible Nvidia-OpenAI deal.The Nikkei .N225 ro...Reuters
21 minutes ago
GLOBAL MARKETS-Asia stocks try to steady after Wall St selloff dims mood
Japan, China markets return after holidaysWall Street hit by AI woes as uncertainty over trade policy persistsBernstein warns of crowding risks in U.S. and Asia stocks as investors chase returnsBy Gregor Stuart Hunter SINGAPORE, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Asian stocks stabilised after a wobbly start ...Reuters
34 minutes ago
METALS-Copper climbs as Chinese traders return from holiday
Feb 24 (Reuters) - Copper pulled higher on Tuesday as Chinese traders return to the market after holiday, while caution stemming from rising inventories and U.S. tariff uncertainties persists.The most-active copper contract SCFcv1 on the Shanghai Futures Exchange climbed 1.40% to 102,190 yuan ($14,8...Reuters
53 minutes ago
Japan's Nikkei rises as trading resumes after holiday, AI-related stocks shine
By Junko Fujita TOKYO, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average rose on Tuesday as trading resumed after a long holiday weekend, with AI-related stocks rallying on expectation of further investment in AI infrastructure after a report of a possible Nvidia-OpenAI deal.The Nikkei .N225 ro...Reuters
an hour ago
CRAVELLE Launches CRAVE AI, a Premium AI Companion Platform Designed for Women’s Intimacy and Emotional Well-Being
Vertical large-model technology powers human-like, highly personalized interaction across smart hardware and subscription services—bringing recurring value to an industry long defined by one-time purchases.HONG KONG, Feb. 12, 2026 — CRAVELLE today announced the launch of CRAVE AI, a premium, technology-forward AI companion platform built for adult women who expect more from intimacy, privacy, and personalization. Designed with a restrained, high-end aesthetic and a science-led product philosophy, CRAVE AI reframes “sex tech” from novelty hardware to an AI-first experience—where the core differentiation is human-like interaction, companionship, and customization at scale, and smart devices serve as a discreet, connected entry point.From devices to a vertical AI engine that understands womenWhile much of the category has historically focused on product specs or provocative marketing, CRAVE AI is built around a different premise: women’s desire is contextual, emotional, and deeply individual—and technology should respond accordingly. CRAVE AI’s platform combines AI character interaction, speech synthesis, and connected device control into a single, integrated experience that adapts to the user’s preferences over time.At the center is a purpose-built vertical model for intimate interaction—one that prioritizes companionship, emotional resonance, and personalization rather than generic chat. In the CRAVE AI app, users can explore interactive experiences, community content, and guided pathways that support self-discovery and confidence—without relying on mass-market, attention-driven tactics.A modern business model for a category that lacked “repurchase”CRAVE AI is designed around a sustainable, scalable commercial framework that aligns with how premium digital products are built today: Hardware + Subscription: A connected ecosystem that continuously improves the experience and adds ongoing value. Premium unlocks: A “boutique content” approach, supported by subscription identifiers and virtual credits, enabling curated add-ons while maintaining discretion and control for the user.For distributors and premium retail partners, this model creates a clearer path to recurring revenue—without sacrificing a high-end brand posture. CRAVELLE’s channel strategy is designed to support (1) strong initial hardware sell-through and (2) ongoing software-driven monetization that can lift customer lifetime value over time. This enables partners to participate in a category transition from “single transaction” to “relationship-driven” commerce, with repeat purchases coming from subscription renewals, curated premium unlocks, and ecosystem upgrades rather than discount-led replenishment.Partner-ready merchandising and conversion support are built into the launch plan to help distributors educate consumers in a respectful, sophisticated way. This includes premium packaging, training materials for authorized sales staff, demo and display guidance (where permitted), and an education-first positioning that fits high-trust channels and compliance-conscious environments. In addition, CRAVELLE will support partners with structured go-to-market assets—such as localized product narratives, sell-in decks, and retail-ready content—so teams can communicate the value of “AI-enhanced companionship and personalization” clearly, without relying on provocative messaging.Privacy, safety, and adult-only access by designCRAVE AI is built exclusively for adults and includes age responsibility disclosures and 18+ requirements across its services. On the data side, CRAVE AI is designed with a privacy-minded approach intended to prioritize discretion, user agency, and responsible handling of personal information.Founder perspective“For too long, women’s desire has been spoken about in headlines, but ignored in design,” said a CRAVELLE founder. “We deeply empathize with how often women feel compelled to conceal their private desires and fantasies under the weight of judgment—until even being honest with themselves can feel out of reach—and CRAVE AI exists to offer a discreet, bias-free emotional refuge where every form of longing is met with respect, not labels.”Building the foundation for women’s long-term wellbeing innovationCRAVELLE views intimate interaction as the first chapter of a broader roadmap. By establishing trust, personalization, and emotional intelligence in one of the most demanding human contexts—intimacy—the company is laying the groundwork to extend CRAVE AI’s capabilities into longer-term directions related to women’s holistic wellbeing, including mind-body support and personal growth experiences.AvailabilityCRAVE AI is available via its web and app ecosystem, with integrated features that include smart-device connectivity, AI interaction, and interactive experiences.About CRAVELLE / CRAVE AICRAVELLE is the team behind CRAVE AI, a premium AI companion platform for adults that blends immersive interaction, connected smart devices, and a privacy-minded approach to personalization. CRAVE AI’s services include AI companion chat, virtual interaction experiences, product purchasing, and community engagement.ContactCompany: CRAVELLE AI GROUP LIMITEDContact Person: MonaEmail: business@crave-ai.aiWebsite: https://www.creviatech.com/City: Hong KongSOURCE CRAVELLE24/02/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.comEQS
an hour ago
Huiyuan Cowins’ Stainless Steel Piped Direct Drinking Water Business Driven by Policies and Market Demand
Becoming a Key Future Growth Engine with Integrated Supply Chain Strengths(24 February 2026, Hong Kong) Huiyuan Cowins Technology Group Limited (“Huiyuan Cowins Technology”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; stock code: 1116.HK) is pleased to announce that the Group’s stainless steel piped direct drinking water business in China is entering a phase of rapid development. This is benefitted from the upgrade of national drinking water standards and the implementation of livelihood improvement policies, together with surging demand for healthy drinking water. By leveraging its technologies across the full supply chain, multi-scenario flagship projects, and large-scale market coverage, the Group has successfully built differentiated competitive barriers in the industry. This business has become the core engine of the Group’s future growth and will continue to expand its growth potential in line with industry development.Dual Drivers of Policy and Demand Propel Industry into High GrowthThe piped direct drinking water industry in China is entering a period of dual dividends from policy and market, laying a solid foundation for the Group’s business development. At the national level, the GB5749-2022 " Standards for Drinking Water Quality" was officially implemented in 2023. The standard significantly raises the threshold for water safety and provides regulatory and standard support for the high-quality development of the industry. At the local level, many cities including Nanjing, Jinan, Shenzhen, and Chongqing have included direct drinking water projects as key livelihood construction initiatives. These cities have issued special technical specifications to promote systematic implementation in various scenarios such as communities, schools, and hospitals.On the market side, public health awareness has deepened and attention to drinking water safety continues to rise. Piped direct drinking water effectively addresses industry pain points such as secondary contamination and filter replacements for purifiers installed at the point of use. It also offers advantages in cost and environmental impact. The solution is becoming the preferred drinking option in many public settings, and market acceptance and penetration are steadily increasing.Industry research shows that the penetration rate of piped direct drinking water in China’s total water consumption grew at a rate of 10.7% from 2017 to 2022. The industry scale reached RMB8.87 billion in 2022. With the implementation of citywide direct drinking water models in Shenzhen, Shanghai, and other cities, industry demand is entering an accelerated development phase. Research institutions forecast that the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the piped direct drinking water industry will reach 13.1% from 2023 to 2028. The market size is expected to climb to RMB18.56 billion by 2028. This strong industry momentum opens up broad market space for the Group’s stainless steel piped direct drinking water business.[1]Integrated Supply Chain Advantages Build Industry BarriersThe Group has developed core competitive advantages through independent control of its integrated supply chain and its intelligent system integration in the stainless steel piped direct drinking water business. These advantages create key barriers that distinguish the Group from other industry players. The Group possesses independent production capacity that covers all processes of stainless steel pipe manufacturing. This capacity enables self-production of food-grade stainless steel pipes. The approach ensures pipeline material safety from the source, completely eliminates secondary pollution during water transmission, significantly reduces supply chain costs, and enhances product bargaining power. In addition, the Group provides a full set of integrated pipeline direct drinking water solutions. These solutions cover water purification process design, equipment installation, pipeline laying, and water quality monitoring. They are supported by intelligent technologies and system integration to achieve refined operation and management of direct drinking water systems. For the project of piped direct drinking water in Guangdong Radio and Television, the Group’s daily water supply capacity meets the drinking water demand of more than 4,000 people. Multi-stage advanced purification processes filter out heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. When combined with fully enclosed food-grade stainless steel circulation pipelines and 24-hour online water quality monitoring equipment, the system achieves real-time monitoring and stable compliance of effluent quality.Multi-Scenario Flagship Projects Implemented Covering Over 100,000 HouseholdsRelying on its core technological advantages, the Group has built flagship projects across multiple scenarios. These include government and enterprise units, high-end commercial properties, local communities, and educational institutions. The Group has achieved large-scale implementation from first-tier cities to core cities. The business covers key Greater Bay Area cities such as Guangzhou and Jiangmen. This positions the Group as a benchmark enterprise in China’s stainless steel direct drinking water industry. The cumulative service footprint now covers more than 100,000 households and thousands of teachers and students.With the further popularization of healthy drinking habits, the continuous implementation of national and local direct drinking water policies, and the gradual demonstration effect of the Group’s flagship projects, the market potential of the Group’s stainless steel direct drinking water business will continue to be unlocked. Currently, several flagship projects are under accelerated construction. Business implementation is progressing steadily, and market share is rising gradually.Mr. Tai Yiu Kuen, Kevin, the Chief Executive Officer of Huiyuan Cowins Technology Group Limited stated, “In the future, the Group will continue to increase R&D investment in intelligent direct drinking water systems and in the upgrading of water purification technologies. We will deepen our full industry chain capabilities in stainless steel pipes and system integration. We will continuously enhance market competitiveness and brand influence. We expect the stainless steel piped direct drinking water business to become the core engine of growth in the coming years. It will bring sustainable and stable investment returns to our shareholders and drive a rapid enhancement in the Group’s overall value.”- END –About Huiyuan Cowins Technology Group Limited Huiyuan Cowins Technology Group Limited (stock code: 1116.HK) has been deeply engaged in the steel pipe and steel sector for over 30 years and is a benchmark brand in China's stainless steel water pipe industry, with full-chain capabilities in “independent R&D – production manufacturing.” Its main businesses cover stainless steel water pipes and fittings, carbon steel plate shearing, pipeline direct drinking water solutions, and extend to the phase change energy storage technology field. Since 2023, the Group has accelerated its expansion into the energy storage business, focusing on the R&D and production of phase-change energy storage materials (PCM), providing customized cold storage and heat storage solutions for customers in various industries. The company was listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in 2004. For more details, please visit its official company website: https://www.hctechgp.com.[1] LeadLeo: 2023 China Piped Drinking Water Industry Overview https://pdf.dfcfw.com/pdf/H3_AP202404181630528207_1.pdf24/02/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.comEQS
2 hours ago
IBM posts steepest daily drop since 2000 after Anthropic says AI can modernize COBOL
Feb 23 (Reuters) - Shares of International Business Machines IBM.N recorded their steepest daily drop in more than 25 years on Monday, after AI startup Anthropic said its Claude Code tool could be used to modernize a programming language run on IBM systems.IBM shares sank 13.2%, their biggest drop s...Reuters
2 hours ago
INDIA STOCKS-Indian shares set to open lower on US tariff uncertainty, AI-disruption fears
Feb 24 (Reuters) - India's benchmark indexes are set to open lower on Tuesday, tracking an overnight slide on Wall Street, as risk sentiment soured on renewed uncertainty around President Donald Trump's tariff policy and persistent fears of AI-driven disruption.The Gift Nifty futures GIFc1 w...Reuters
2 hours ago
24H | Keysight Surges 14%; BWX Technologies Jumps 8%; Whirlpool Drops 7%; Ultra Clean Sinks 12%
Electronic equipment maker Keysight Technologies forecast second-quarter profit ahead of Wall Street estimates, sending its shares up more than 14% in overnight trading.BWX Technologies, a supplier of nuclear technology to the military, NASA, and commercial utilities, jumped 7.6% in overnight tradin...Tiger News
2 hours ago
ETF Daily | CRMX Soars 27%; AGQ Jumps 10%; NVOX Sinks 33%; Risk-Off Rotation Into Precious Metals
Market OverviewThe Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.66%, the S&P 500 slipped 1.04%, and the Nasdaq Composite retreated 1.13%, with all three benchmarks registering declines greater than 1% on the day.Across ETFs, inverse equity index products advanced while commodity funds tied to silver and gold...Tiger News
2 hours ago
China stocks open higher after holiday as investors cheer US tariff ruling
SHANGHAI, Feb 24 (Reuters) - China stocks opened higher on Tuesday, as traders returning from a nine-day holiday bid up shares across sectors from consumer electronics to machinery, betting that the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling against President Donald Trump's emergency tariffs will benefit C...Reuters
2 hours ago
IMAX Lights Up Chinese New Year with $28 Million at the China Box Office
Racing Blockbuster "Pegasus 3" Leads the Way with $24 Million Haul SHANGHAI and NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX) capitalized on the Chinese New Year holiday, delivering $28 million in box office during the seven-day period that stands among the peak mo...PR Newswire
2 hours ago
Amazon plans $12 billion Louisiana data center buildout
By Greg Bensinger SAN FRANCISCO, Feb 23 (Reuters) - Amazon AMZN.O said it expects to invest $12 billion in Louisiana as part of a plan to build data centers in the Pelican State.The Seattle-based online retailer said the data center buildout, in northwest Louisiana, will create 540 full-time ...Reuters
3 hours ago
Vir Biotech Catapults 58% on A $1.71 Billion Deal With Astellas
Vir Biotechnology, Inc. stock catapulted 58% in overnight trading after the small biotech company smashed Wall Street's fourth-quarter sales expectations and signed a collaboration deal with Astellas Pharma (ALPMY).The Astellas deal comes after Vir Biotechnology (VIR) reported promising first-phase ...Tiger News
3 hours ago
China leaves benchmark lending rates unchanged for ninth straight month
SHANGHAI, Feb 24 (Reuters) - China left benchmark lending rates unchanged for a ninth consecutive month in February on Tuesday.The one-year loan prime rate (LPR) CNYLPR1Y=CFXS was kept at 3.0%, while the five-year LPR CNYLPR5Y=CFXS was unchanged at 3.5%.Most new and outstanding loans in China are ba...Reuters
3 hours ago
GLOBAL MARKETS-Asia stocks wobble as Wall St selloff saps confidence
Japan, China markets return after holidaysWall Street hit by AI woes as uncertainty over trade policy persistsBernstein warns of crowding risks in U.S. and Asia stocks as investors chase returnsBy Gregor Stuart Hunter SINGAPORE, Feb 24 (Reuters) - Asian stock markets stuttered in early trade on T...Reuters
3 hours ago
Australia shares inch higher on mining gains, Woodside rises on better-than-expected results
Feb 24 (Reuters) - Australian shares rose on Tuesday, helped by miners and a smaller-than-expected decline in Woodside's full-year results, while risk sentiment remained muted amid uncertainty over U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff plans. The S&P/ASX 200 index .AXJO rose 0.1% to 9,038...Reuters
3 hours ago
RPT-ROI-Watch out for oil's disappearing disinflationary drag: McGeever
By Jamie McGeever ORLANDO, Florida, Feb 23 (Reuters) - Oil prices have been a consistent disinflationary force for the U.S. and global economies since mid-2024. That may be about to change.Fueled by signs of a solid upturn in economic activity at the start of the year and bubbling U.S.-Iran tensi...Reuters
4 hours ago
