Business opportunities still abound in Hong Kong - Channel NewsAsia

HONG KONG: German-born Allan Zeman was drawn to the opportunities that the Far East had to offer back in the 70s, starting off small with a trading company.

Today, the self-made property magnate carries a Chinese passport, and is a local delegate to the National People's Congress of China.

But he is more popularly known as the father of Lan Kwai Fong, the city's best known night spot.

Mr Zeman, now chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Holdings, believes that today's Hong Kong still provides opportunities for those who want to make it big.

"Hong Kong is an international marketplace. People from all over the world come here to do business. And so in my mind, I think that Hong Kong will always be an opportunity for people who are creative, able to think ahead, who can come up with a product that's a little different. If you're one of those categories, there's always opportunity," he said.

In 2004, Mr Zeman was given the opportunity to revamp local attraction Ocean Park, in light of Hong Kong Disneyland's impending opening.

He focused on the educational and conservational aspects of the Ocean Park and, tapping his Lan Kwai Fong experience, gave people new experiences.

Today, Ocean Park is the city's top tourist attraction.

"Hong Kong needs to keep re-inventing itself. There's a lot of competition now for Hong Kong, as you say, Singapore, Macau, Hengshan Island where there's a new aquarium opening up, Shanghai Disney," Mr Zeman said.

"I've always said that competition makes you better. I never worry about competition. As long as you're providing a good experience for your guests, your customers, they'll keep coming back."

Mainland tourists are coming back by the droves.

Hong Kong is now less a gateway to cheap mainland factories and more a playground for wealthy Chinese consumers.

Last year, a record 28 million mainland tourists visited the territory, spending at average of US$1,500 per stay.

The retail boom caused by tourist arrivals in recent years has pushed rents to record levels. In Causeway Bay, the city's busiest shopping district, retail space commands average rents second only to New York's Fifth Avenue.

Douglas Young co-founded of Goods Of Desire (GOD), an emporium of lifestyle products, just a year before the 1997 British handover of Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has always been a very expensive place to do business," he said. "That part hasn't changed, but I think the situation probably has gotten worst now.

"I probably wouldn't be able to start GOD today because the entry barrier has just been lifted so high. I think the problem with companies like ours, being private and local, without big funding, is that we simply don't have the budget to promote ourselves "

Trained as an architect, Mr Young has helped to put Hong Kong on the design map by taking inspiration from the city's culture, past and present.

With five stores in the city, GOD is expanding into Singapore with plans for more stores on the mainland.

- CNA/wm

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GSBF 2012 to focus on new market opportunities in ASEAN - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: For the first time, a select group of Singapore enterprises will be opening their Indonesian operations to a delegation of 30 German and Singapore enterprises.

This is part of the activities for this year's biennial German-Singapore Business Forum (GSBF).

In a media release, SPRING Singapore said more than 100 delegates from Germany and Singapore have gathered in Singapore for the forum held from July 3 to 7.

The GSBF is a key platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from both countries to network, exchange ideas and identify collaboration opportunities.

This year's forum aims to tap the knowledge and expertise of Singapore enterprises to explore new growth potentials and market opportunities in the ASEAN region.

For the first time, Singapore enterprises like YCH Logistics, Sanwa Group and CEI Contract Manufacturing, with regional operations in Jakarta and Batam, will open their facilities to the delegation keen to explore growth potentials and market opportunities in Indonesia.

"As the world is shifting its interest to Asia, especially the emerging markets for the business opportunities it offers, our SMEs are well-positioned to be key partners to German Mittelstands looking to expand into the region. The deeper and more strategic partnerships will fuel the growth of German and Singapore SMEs for long-term economic growth," said Mr Philip Yeo, Chairman of SPRING Singapore, who has been the Singapore GSBF co-chair since 2007.

SPRING Singapore said this year's forum will focus on fostering collaborations in three key sectors: Precision Engineering, Medical Technology and Environmental Technology.

-CNA/ac

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Business opportunities still abound in Hong Kong - Channel NewsAsia

HONG KONG: German-born Allan Zeman was drawn to the opportunities that the Far East had to offer back in the 70s, starting off small with a trading company.

Today, the self-made property magnate carries a Chinese passport, and is a local delegate to the National People's Congress of China.

But he is more popularly known as the father of Lan Kwai Fong, the city's best known night spot.

Mr Zeman, now chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Holdings, believes that today's Hong Kong still provides opportunities for those who want to make it big.

"Hong Kong is an international marketplace. People from all over the world come here to do business. And so in my mind, I think that Hong Kong will always be an opportunity for people who are creative, able to think ahead, who can come up with a product that's a little different. If you're one of those categories, there's always opportunity," he said.

In 2004, Mr Zeman was given the opportunity to revamp local attraction Ocean Park, in light of Hong Kong Disneyland's impending opening.

He focused on the educational and conservational aspects of the Ocean Park and, tapping his Lan Kwai Fong experience, gave people new experiences.

Today, Ocean Park is the city's top tourist attraction.

"Hong Kong needs to keep re-inventing itself. There's a lot of competition now for Hong Kong, as you say, Singapore, Macau, Hengshan Island where there's a new aquarium opening up, Shanghai Disney," Mr Zeman said.

"I've always said that competition makes you better. I never worry about competition. As long as you're providing a good experience for your guests, your customers, they'll keep coming back."

Mainland tourists are coming back by the droves.

Hong Kong is now less a gateway to cheap mainland factories and more a playground for wealthy Chinese consumers.

Last year, a record 28 million mainland tourists visited the territory, spending at average of US$1,500 per stay.

The retail boom caused by tourist arrivals in recent years has pushed rents to record levels. In Causeway Bay, the city's busiest shopping district, retail space commands average rents second only to New York's Fifth Avenue.

Douglas Young co-founded of Goods Of Desire (GOD), an emporium of lifestyle products, just a year before the 1997 British handover of Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has always been a very expensive place to do business," he said. "That part hasn't changed, but I think the situation probably has gotten worst now.

"I probably wouldn't be able to start GOD today because the entry barrier has just been lifted so high. I think the problem with companies like ours, being private and local, without big funding, is that we simply don't have the budget to promote ourselves "

Trained as an architect, Mr Young has helped to put Hong Kong on the design map by taking inspiration from the city's culture, past and present.

With five stores in the city, GOD is expanding into Singapore with plans for more stores on the mainland.

- CNA/wm

View the original article here

Business opportunities still abound in Hong Kong - Channel NewsAsia

HONG KONG: German-born Allan Zeman was drawn to the opportunities that the Far East had to offer back in the 70s, starting off small with a trading company.

Today, the self-made property magnate carries a Chinese passport, and is a local delegate to the National People's Congress of China.

But he is more popularly known as the father of Lan Kwai Fong, the city's best known night spot.

Mr Zeman, now chairman of Lan Kwai Fong Holdings, believes that today's Hong Kong still provides opportunities for those who want to make it big.

"Hong Kong is an international marketplace. People from all over the world come here to do business. And so in my mind, I think that Hong Kong will always be an opportunity for people who are creative, able to think ahead, who can come up with a product that's a little different. If you're one of those categories, there's always opportunity," he said.

In 2004, Mr Zeman was given the opportunity to revamp local attraction Ocean Park, in light of Hong Kong Disneyland's impending opening.

He focused on the educational and conservational aspects of the Ocean Park and, tapping his Lan Kwai Fong experience, gave people new experiences.

Today, Ocean Park is the city's top tourist attraction.

"Hong Kong needs to keep re-inventing itself. There's a lot of competition now for Hong Kong, as you say, Singapore, Macau, Hengshan Island where there's a new aquarium opening up, Shanghai Disney," Mr Zeman said.

"I've always said that competition makes you better. I never worry about competition. As long as you're providing a good experience for your guests, your customers, they'll keep coming back."

Mainland tourists are coming back by the droves.

Hong Kong is now less a gateway to cheap mainland factories and more a playground for wealthy Chinese consumers.

Last year, a record 28 million mainland tourists visited the territory, spending at average of US$1,500 per stay.

The retail boom caused by tourist arrivals in recent years has pushed rents to record levels. In Causeway Bay, the city's busiest shopping district, retail space commands average rents second only to New York's Fifth Avenue.

Douglas Young co-founded of Goods Of Desire (GOD), an emporium of lifestyle products, just a year before the 1997 British handover of Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has always been a very expensive place to do business," he said. "That part hasn't changed, but I think the situation probably has gotten worst now.

"I probably wouldn't be able to start GOD today because the entry barrier has just been lifted so high. I think the problem with companies like ours, being private and local, without big funding, is that we simply don't have the budget to promote ourselves "

Trained as an architect, Mr Young has helped to put Hong Kong on the design map by taking inspiration from the city's culture, past and present.

With five stores in the city, GOD is expanding into Singapore with plans for more stores on the mainland.

- CNA/wm

View the original article here

Asia eyes investment opportunities in Latin America - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: Asia and Latin America should have more commercial and investment links.

The combined population of the two continents provide a huge enough market for joint business opportunities.

These are among the suggestions of delegates at the Asia Latin American Legal Summit.

Trade between Latin America and Asia have grown a hefty 357 percent between 2000 and 2010.

For instance, bilateral trade between Singapore and Latin America grew 38 per cent in 2011 to US$30 billion (S$38 billion) from the previous year.

Driven by Asian appetite for commodities, more investments are expected to be heading to that region.

Analysts said Asian investors are largely attracted to the continent for its vast natural resources.

For example, some 120 Singapore-based companies have over 500 points of presence operating in Latin America.

Singapore Minister for Foreign Affairs and Law, K Shanmugam, said: "Asia and Latin America stand out as the bright spots against an uncertain world economy. Both regions were resilient through the recent crises and experienced robust economic growth and continue to grow."

Among the South American countries that may attract more Asian investments is Brazil.

This especially when the country will be hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.

Analysts said there'll be a lot of demand for infrastructure projects in Brazil and other countries like Argentina, Chile and Peru.

Still, they warn that investing in these latin countries does have its challenges.

The history of high inflation in Latin America countries is still fresh on investors' minds.

Choo Chiau Beng, Ambassador of Singapore to Brazil, said: "(The) government has to keep interest rate fairly high to keep control of inflation. This high interest rate attracted a tremendous amount of hot money particularly from the North, where US has a very loose monetary policy."

High tax rates in Latin America may also deter foreign investors.

Brazil has a combined corporate tax of 34 per cent while Mexico charges a 27 per cent corporate tax rate.

"In Argentina, taxes overlapping taxes between states and federal, municipals and states, and between territory and it does happen in Brazil. There are some legal firms where the whole 100 member team is specialising in tax. We must not underestimate the implications of tax," said Mr Choo.

Eduardo Ramos-Gomez, managing partner, Duane Morris & Selvam LLP, said: "I actually do think the tax rates from Mexico down to Argentina are very competitive if measured worldwide. They are not the highest rates that you have in the developed world like Europe or United States. They are not the rates you have in Singapore. They are in the median range."

Despite the challenges, major exports from Latin America such as petroleum, telecom equipment, iron ore, wine and electronic components may still be an attraction to Asian businesses.

- CNA/cc

View the original article here

Asia eyes investment opportunities in Latin America - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: Asia and Latin America should have more commercial and investment links.

The combined population of the two continents provide a huge enough market for joint business opportunities.

These are among the suggestions of delegates at the Asia Latin American Legal Summit.

Trade between Latin America and Asia have grown a hefty 357 percent between 2000 and 2010.

For instance, bilateral trade between Singapore and Latin America grew 38 per cent in 2011 to US$30 billion (S$38 billion) from the previous year.

Driven by Asian appetite for commodities, more investments are expected to be heading to that region.

Analysts said Asian investors are largely attracted to the continent for its vast natural resources.

For example, some 120 Singapore-based companies have over 500 points of presence operating in Latin America.

Singapore Minister for Foreign Affairs and Law, K Shanmugam, said: "Asia and Latin America stand out as the bright spots against an uncertain world economy. Both regions were resilient through the recent crises and experienced robust economic growth and continue to grow."

Among the South American countries that may attract more Asian investments is Brazil.

This especially when the country will be hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.

Analysts said there'll be a lot of demand for infrastructure projects in Brazil and other countries like Argentina, Chile and Peru.

Still, they warn that investing in these latin countries does have its challenges.

The history of high inflation in Latin America countries is still fresh on investors' minds.

Choo Chiau Beng, Ambassador of Singapore to Brazil, said: "(The) government has to keep interest rate fairly high to keep control of inflation. This high interest rate attracted a tremendous amount of hot money particularly from the North, where US has a very loose monetary policy."

High tax rates in Latin America may also deter foreign investors.

Brazil has a combined corporate tax of 34 per cent while Mexico charges a 27 per cent corporate tax rate.

"In Argentina, taxes overlapping taxes between states and federal, municipals and states, and between territory and it does happen in Brazil. There are some legal firms where the whole 100 member team is specialising in tax. We must not underestimate the implications of tax," said Mr Choo.

Eduardo Ramos-Gomez, managing partner, Duane Morris & Selvam LLP, said: "I actually do think the tax rates from Mexico down to Argentina are very competitive if measured worldwide. They are not the highest rates that you have in the developed world like Europe or United States. They are not the rates you have in Singapore. They are in the median range."

Despite the challenges, major exports from Latin America such as petroleum, telecom equipment, iron ore, wine and electronic components may still be an attraction to Asian businesses.

- CNA/cc

View the original article here

Brocade Honors 2012 Channel Partner Summit Award Winners - msnbc.com

SAN JOSE, CA — Brocade (NASDAQ: BRCD) today announced the winners of its fifth annual Channel Partner Summit Awards. The 14 distributors and resellers were recognized for their exceptional performance in delivering Brocade® networking solutions and services in 2011. The award winners were honored at the 2012 Brocade Channel Partner Summit, an exclusive event for strategic channel partners, held from March 26 to 28 in Las Vegas.

Winners were selected based on a broad set of criteria, including technical certification and expertise, revenue growth, overall business performance and demonstration of "out-of-the-box- thinking" to drive high-impact programs that generate increased business opportunities, while capitalizing on current technology trends.

All winners are part of the Brocade Alliance Partner Network (APN) program in which partners are measured based upon technical certifications and expertise rather than on strict revenue requirements. Additionally, partners have access to a wide array of tools, resources and program initiatives that help them achieve profitability quickly with minimal up-front investment.

The 2012 Channel Partner Summit Award winners are:

North America and Federal Distribution Awards

Distributor of the Year -- AvnetFederal Distributor of the Year -- immixGroup

North America Value-added Reseller (VAR) Awards

Federal VAR Awards

Fast Start Federal Partner of the Year -- TVAR SolutionsTechnical Excellence Federal Partner of the Year -- ViONSAN Federal Partner of the Year -- ViONLAN Federal Partner of the Year -- PacStar

Latin America Awards

Mexico & Caribbean and Central America (CACE) Partner of the Year -- CLAdirectSpanish-Speaking Americas (SSA) & Brazil Partner of the Year -- Black IT

"The channel's proximity to the end customer makes them a natural fit as the 'first mile to the cloud,' which is why we've been keenly focused on delivering innovative technology solutions coupled with high-value channel programs that enable them to be successful in this era of transformation," said Laurie Potratz, senior director of North American Channel Sales at Brocade. "As the channel continues to evolve and experience change at a pace unlike any we've seen in recent years, our channel partners have shown an amazing ability to not only adapt, but to grow and embrace new business opportunities."

The fifth annual Brocade Channel Partner Summit brought together distributors and VARs to discuss best practices, share selling strategies, participate in meetings with Brocade executives, and network with peers. This year's Summit agenda also featured a keynote from New York Times Award Winning Author, Don Yaeger, as well as discussions highlighting the strategic value for the channel around Brocade's vision for "The Effortless Network™."

To learn more about the Brocade APN program, visit www.brocade.com/apn.

About Brocade
Brocade (NASDAQ: BRCD) networking solutions help the world's leading organizations transition smoothly to a world where applications and information reside anywhere. (www.brocade.com)

Brocade, Brocade Assurance, the B-wing symbol, DCX, Fabric OS, MLX, SAN Health, VCS, and VDX are registered trademarks, and AnyIO, Brocade One, CloudPlex, Effortless Networking, ICX, NET Health, OpenScript, and The Effortless Network are trademarks of Brocade Communications Systems, Inc., in the United States and/or in other countries. Other brands, products, or service names mentioned may be trademarks of their respective owners.

© 2012 Brocade Communications Systems, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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© Marketwire 2012

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HP Helps U.S. Storage Partners Expand Revenue Opportunities, Profitability With "100 Percent" Channel Initiatives - msnbc.com

PALO ALTO, CA — HP (NYSE: HPQ) today announced two new sales initiatives that stimulate growth and expand revenue opportunities for U.S. channel partners. The new initiatives include:

The 100 Percent New Accounts Initiative drives incremental revenue and a new level of predictability for HP Storage partners by funneling all sales of HP Storage products to new U.S. accounts through channel partners.(1) The 100 Percent LeftHand and StoreOnce Initiative accelerates growth for HP partners by funneling all high-profit HP LeftHand Storage and HP StoreOnce Backup orders generated by new storage accounts or repeat customers in the United States through an authorized HP Storage partner.(1)

"The storage market continues to rapidly grow as businesses create and manage more and more information every day," said Matt Troka, senior vice president of Product and Partner Management at CDW, an HP channel partner. "By pushing all new storage business to partners, HP has demonstrated its commitment to CDW's success and, at the same time, is building additional trust and goodwill with the channel."

Under the terms and conditions of the 100 Percent New Accounts Initiative, new registered sales opportunities of HP Storage products will be fulfilled by, and remain in, the channel. This includes high-growth HP Converged Storage products, HP 3PAR Storage, HP StoreOnce Backup, HP LeftHand Storage, HP IBRIX Storage, HP X5000 Storage and the rest of the HP Storage portfolio.

The 100 Percent LeftHand and StoreOnce Initiative includes commercial emerging-growth accounts, as well as state, local and education deals.

Both initiatives drive increased sales engagement for HP Storage partners with the HP direct sales force. Whether a sales lead is identified by HP or a partner, HP will always funnel these new business and up-sell opportunities through U.S. channel partners.

More customers, more deals, more margin
The new channel partner initiatives complement the recently announced HP ServiceONE Partner Support for Storage program, which enables qualified partners to pursue new business opportunities by combining HP and partner-branded services to bolster portfolios.

With access to sales, deployment and maintenance opportunities, partners have the potential to compete for and win significant customer deals, as well as increase profit margins.

"With these new programs, HP is driving more storage sales opportunities and profitable growth potential to reseller partners than any other vendor," said Chris Riley, vice president, Americas, Storage, HP. "HP is helping partners increase revenue with HP 3PAR, HP StoreOnce and HP LeftHand products by bringing them more opportunities than ever before."

HP's premier client event, HP Discover, takes place June 4-7 in Las Vegas.

About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

(1) Any end-user account that HP has not sold storage to in the last three years. Deals registration is required to drive alignment. This strategic policy change becomes effective immediately for all new opportunities, whether identified by HP or by the channel partner. Implicit in this policy is the assurance that every registered Storage New Business Opportunity (NBO) is now guaranteed to stay in the channel. Outside of HP Global Accounts, opportunities where storage cannot be unbundled from the overall HP Solution, or select opportunities where HP is contractually obligated to fulfill direct, such as the public sector.

This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including execution of cost reduction programs and restructuring and integration plans; any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to products and services; any statements regarding anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the competitive pressures faced by HP's businesses; the development and transition of new products and services (and the enhancement of existing products and services) to meet customer needs and respond to emerging technological trends; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the protection of HP's intellectual property assets, including intellectual property licensed from third parties; integration and other risks associated with business combination and investment transactions; the hiring and retention of key employees; expectations and assumptions relating to the execution and timing of cost reduction programs and restructuring and integration plans; the resolution of pending investigations, claims and disputes; and other risks that are described in HP's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2012 and HP's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including HP's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

© 2012 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

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HP Helps U.S. Storage Partners Expand Revenue Opportunities, Profitability With "100 Percent" Channel Initiatives

PALO ALTO, CA--(Marketwire -03/26/12)- HP (NYSE: HPQ - News) today announced two new sales initiatives that stimulate growth and expand revenue opportunities for U.S. channel partners. The new initiatives include:

The 100 Percent New Accounts Initiative drives incremental revenue and a new level of predictability for HP Storage partners by funneling all sales of HP Storage products to new U.S. accounts through channel partners.(1) The 100 Percent LeftHand and StoreOnce Initiative accelerates growth for HP partners by funneling all high-profit HP LeftHand Storage and HP StoreOnce Backup orders generated by new storage accounts or repeat customers in the United States through an authorized HP Storage partner.(1)

"The storage market continues to rapidly grow as businesses create and manage more and more information every day," said Matt Troka, senior vice president of Product and Partner Management at CDW, an HP channel partner. "By pushing all new storage business to partners, HP has demonstrated its commitment to CDW's success and, at the same time, is building additional trust and goodwill with the channel."

Under the terms and conditions of the 100 Percent New Accounts Initiative, new registered sales opportunities of HP Storage products will be fulfilled by, and remain in, the channel. This includes high-growth HP Converged Storage products, HP 3PAR Storage, HP StoreOnce Backup, HP LeftHand Storage, HP IBRIX Storage, HP X5000 Storage and the rest of the HP Storage portfolio.

The 100 Percent LeftHand and StoreOnce Initiative includes commercial emerging-growth accounts, as well as state, local and education deals.

Both initiatives drive increased sales engagement for HP Storage partners with the HP direct sales force. Whether a sales lead is identified by HP or a partner, HP will always funnel these new business and up-sell opportunities through U.S. channel partners.

More customers, more deals, more margin
The new channel partner initiatives complement the recently announced HP ServiceONE Partner Support for Storage program, which enables qualified partners to pursue new business opportunities by combining HP and partner-branded services to bolster portfolios.

With access to sales, deployment and maintenance opportunities, partners have the potential to compete for and win significant customer deals, as well as increase profit margins.

"With these new programs, HP is driving more storage sales opportunities and profitable growth potential to reseller partners than any other vendor," said Chris Riley, vice president, Americas, Storage, HP. "HP is helping partners increase revenue with HP 3PAR, HP StoreOnce and HP LeftHand products by bringing them more opportunities than ever before."

HP's premier client event, HP Discover, takes place June 4-7 in Las Vegas.

About HP
HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world's largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

(1) Any end-user account that HP has not sold storage to in the last three years. Deals registration is required to drive alignment. This strategic policy change becomes effective immediately for all new opportunities, whether identified by HP or by the channel partner. Implicit in this policy is the assurance that every registered Storage New Business Opportunity (NBO) is now guaranteed to stay in the channel. Outside of HP Global Accounts, opportunities where storage cannot be unbundled from the overall HP Solution, or select opportunities where HP is contractually obligated to fulfill direct, such as the public sector.

This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of HP and its consolidated subsidiaries could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including execution of cost reduction programs and restructuring and integration plans; any statements concerning expected development, performance or market share relating to products and services; any statements regarding anticipated operational and financial results; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events; the competitive pressures faced by HP's businesses; the development and transition of new products and services (and the enhancement of existing products and services) to meet customer needs and respond to emerging technological trends; the execution and performance of contracts by HP and its customers, suppliers and partners; the protection of HP's intellectual property assets, including intellectual property licensed from third parties; integration and other risks associated with business combination and investment transactions; the hiring and retention of key employees; expectations and assumptions relating to the execution and timing of cost reduction programs and restructuring and integration plans; the resolution of pending investigations, claims and disputes; and other risks that are described in HP's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended January 31, 2012 and HP's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including HP's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2011. HP assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

© 2012 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

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IBM CEO Rometty Offers Her Vision Of Channel Opportunities - CRN

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India team to seek business deals in Iran - Channel NewsAsia

NEW DELHI: An Indian trade delegation will travel to Iran next week to explore "huge opportunities" in business amid US-led sanctions over the Islamic republic's disputed nuclear programme, an export group said.

The group will visit Iran from March 10-14, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations said late on Friday, adding exporters had settled a major problem on how to receive payments from Tehran in the face of sanctions on dollar deals.

"We are expecting to get a lot of business from this trip," Anand Seth, spokesman for the Federation of Indian Export Organisations, an Indian government partner in promoting trade, told AFP.

The top trade organisation, set up by the government, said Indian exporters would be paid for goods sent to Iran using a rupee payment system.

Iran's Parsian Bank has opened an account with India's UCO Bank and Indian exporters now are receiving rupee payments from Iran, Seth said.

The method gives New Delhi a way to circumvent Western sanctions that are drying up banking routes.

Iran is India's second-largest oil supplier after Saudi Arabia, providing around 12 percent of the fast-growing country's crude needs.

India has been examining ways to step up trade with Iran amid problems in settling its oil bills from Iran as a result of the intensifying sanctions campaign aimed at forcing Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme.

India's Congress party-led government says it will abide only by UN sanctions on the Islamic republic, and will not implement those by individual nations.

Indian Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar last month said New Delhi would send a delegation to Iran to "promote our own exports" and investigate business opportunities spawned by the sanctions.

He said there were "huge opportunities" to be reaped by India.

The two countries, which have long historic ties, hope to be able to settle around 45 percent of their oil trade in rupees by increasing exports, Indian media reports say.

India has said that the visit by the Indian business delegation to Iran will go ahead despite a bomb attack in New Delhi last month that severely wounded an Israeli diplomat.

While Israel has blamed the attack on Tehran, India has said the identity of the perpetrators was yet to be established.

"Why should we let long historic and cultural ties between the two countries be overshadowed by recent events?" said a senior government official, who could not be named, on Saturday.

Bilateral trade between India and Iran is around $13.7 billion, of which Indian exports account for just $2.74 billion.

But the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India says Iran offers wide potential for export of Indian products and commodities.

It estimates the potential of trade and economic relations between the two countries can touch $30 billion annually by 2015.

India believes large export opportunities are available in the food sector, including tea, wheat and rice; pharmaceuticals; iron and steel and infrastructure projects.

- AFP/wk

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IBM CEO Rometty Offers Her Vision Of Channel Opportunities - CRN

Page 2 of 2

Throughout her keynote Rometty spoke with an easy confidence, reeling off statistics about IBM's business while occasionally bantering with the audience. Once, when the early-morning attendees were slow in responding, Rometty said in a mock-threatening tone from the stage: "Don't make me walk out there."

Rometty devoted much of her keynote to what she sees as the new business opportunities for IBM and its channel partners -- which she referred to as "growth plays."

Some of the areas are already among IBM's target initiatives as Palmisano outlined in his keynote speech at the same conference one year ago. Rometty, for example, cited the growth potential of IBM's business analytics technologies and noted that 95 percent of those sales to SMBs go through partners.

Rometty also described "a new era of computing that is upon us" that is "defined by computing moving to the front office." That includes selling business analytics, "Big Data" management capabilities and other technologies not just to IT departments, but to chief financial officers, chief marketing officers and other non-traditional customers.

That resonated with Geert Hallemeesch, a partner with Numius, a Belgium-based company that develops business analytics solutions around IBM products, including its Cognos and SPSS software. Numius' customers increasingly include chief marketing officers and other non-IT executives. Hallemeesch, in an interview at the conference, cited a recent business analytics project Numius did for Tele Ticket Service as an example of the kind of new opportunities Rometty was describing.

"It's reassuring to hear that we're in the sweet spot of that strategy," he said.

Mainline's Kearney got a similar message. "She challenged us to sell IBM Cloud and [Global Technology Services] solutions inside our legacy [Systems & Technology Group] accounts, call on new customers in our respective territories and to find ways for us to be relevant to midmarket "front office" executives like physicians, chief marketing officers and business planners," he said.

"My take away of Ginni's keynote and the conference was, it's all about data. Capturing data, assimilating it, relating it and making its results available instantly to any device within the secure network is the new difference maker in today's business environment."

Rometty also promised continued investment in technical support, training and certification, and co-marketing resources for channel partners.

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IBM CEO Rometty Offers Her Vision Of Channel Opportunities - CRN

Page 2 of 2

Throughout her keynote Rometty spoke with an easy confidence, reeling off statistics about IBM's business while occasionally bantering with the audience. Once, when the early-morning attendees were slow in responding, Rometty said in a mock-threatening tone from the stage: "Don't make me walk out there."

Rometty devoted much of her keynote to what she sees as the new business opportunities for IBM and its channel partners -- which she referred to as "growth plays."

Some of the areas are already among IBM's target initiatives as Palmisano outlined in his keynote speech at the same conference one year ago. Rometty, for example, cited the growth potential of IBM's business analytics technologies and noted that 95 percent of those sales to SMBs go through partners.

Rometty also described "a new era of computing that is upon us" that is "defined by computing moving to the front office." That includes selling business analytics, "Big Data" management capabilities and other technologies not just to IT departments, but to chief financial officers, chief marketing officers and other non-traditional customers.

That resonated with Geert Hallemeesch, a partner with Numius, a Belgium-based company that develops business analytics solutions around IBM products, including its Cognos and SPSS software. Numius' customers increasingly include chief marketing officers and other non-IT executives. Hallemeesch, in an interview at the conference, cited a recent business analytics project Numius did for Tele Ticket Service as an example of the kind of new opportunities Rometty was describing.

"It's reassuring to hear that we're in the sweet spot of that strategy," he said.

Mainline's Kearney got a similar message. "She challenged us to sell IBM Cloud and [Global Technology Services] solutions inside our legacy [Systems & Technology Group] accounts, call on new customers in our respective territories and to find ways for us to be relevant to midmarket "front office" executives like physicians, chief marketing officers and business planners," he said.

"My take away of Ginni's keynote and the conference was, it's all about data. Capturing data, assimilating it, relating it and making its results available instantly to any device within the secure network is the new difference maker in today's business environment."

Rometty also promised continued investment in technical support, training and certification, and co-marketing resources for channel partners.

<< Previous | 1 | 2

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DataCore Software Expands Channel Partner Ecosystem to Capitalize on Fast Growing Storage Hypervisor and Virtualization Market Opportunity - Business Wire

Makes it Easier to Sell and Deploy Profitable Software and Appliance-like Solutions; Targets New Microsoft Resellers and Builds Upon Growing Base of VMware, Citrix and Storage VARS

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, DataCore Software, the storage hypervisor leader and premier provider of storage virtualization software, is simplifying the process of selling and implementing its SANsymphony-V storage hypervisor by announcing significant new tools and enhancements to its Partner Program. Demonstrating its unrivaled commitment to the channel, DataCore’s Partner Program helps create new revenue streams and provides enhanced tools to global channel partners.

“Our partners are the key to success and our growth is tied directly to their accomplishments”

DataCore has both realigned the Partner Program and introduced a host of new benefits and rewards. New features include “door opener” starter systems, configuration tools, and virtualization sales playbooks, all making it simple and rewarding for partners to begin selling profitable storage virtualization and SAN management software solutions. Additionally, a new Business Solution Partner level has been added to the existing premier Silver and Gold Partner tiers, enabling organizations to select the program that best suits its individual needs. Some of the highlights include:

Business Solution Partners: At this level, partners are eligible to sell DataCore software licenses, maintenance, and renewals; qualify for lead registration discounts; and have the ability to access the DataCore Partner Portal and live-trial demo site. Business partners now have the opportunity to quickly get started selling entry level SANsymphony™-V solutions with only a minimum set of on-line training needed in order to install and support these storage hypervisor systems. Silver and Gold Solution Partners: Silver and Gold partners benefit from marketing programs and special promotions, greater presence on the DataCore website, eligibility to earn training vouchers for qualifying sales and more. Gold partners also have dedicated account managers to assist in developing business and quarterly sales plans, and can earn quarter-end channel rewards on all eligible product sales.

“DataCore is truly dedicated to the channel community and making it easier for partners like us to profit from growing storage and virtualization opportunities,” said John Wood, vice president, Derive Technologies. “As large-scale IT projects can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to implement, including countless man hours, organizations want to make the right decisions about their storage needs before heading down a wrong and costly path. Storage and virtualization are incredibly hot sectors, and DataCore has made it easier for us to successfully win new customers and deliver an infrastructure platform that allows for more upsells and services. All while making customers happy and putting money in our pocket.”

Making it Simple to Configure, Install, and Deploy ‘Appliance-like’ Solutions

In addition to a wealth of sales, marketing, and training tools available via the DataCore Partner Portal, all three levels of DataCore™ partners will now have access to the new SANsymphony-V Rapid Configuration Wizard and step-by-step guides which can help them quickly install and implement the most popular SANsymphony-V configurations for their SMB customers. For those partners who already sell and package Dell, HP, and IBM-based server platforms to support virtualization and cloud projects, it is now easier to add DataCore software to the mix and profit from delivering and installing powerful SAN appliances and storage management platforms as part of an overall virtual infrastructure solution.

Expanding Market Opportunity with the Right Focus: Partner Quality versus Quantity

Having deployed more than 20,000 software licenses, DataCore is committed to its channel model and expanding the base of authorized partners who are well trained and qualified to install its solutions to maximize customer satisfaction.

To fulfill the growing demand, DataCore is actively recruiting new Microsoft virtualization partners who are focused on Hyper-V, virtual desktop, and private cloud projects, as well as the base of VMware and Citrix partners in need of virtual storage infrastructure and SAN management solutions. DataCore has a strong history with Microsoft, having recently joined the Microsoft System Center Alliance and Microsoft Partner Solutions Center. It is also working closely with Microsoft resellers globally to deploy joint solutions combining Microsoft System Center and SANsymphony-V.

New Sales Playbooks, Marketing Tools and Training

DataCore has implemented critical new messaging, programs, and marketing tools to ensure consistency and better communication with its partners and their prospects. Essential to making their business a success, these tools include a partner starter package with key information including “DataCore Workshop” seminar in a box, ‘white boarding’ for business executives, virtualization playbooks, storage hypervisor webinars, and access to partner webcasts and newsletters.

Additionally, DataCore offers a full range of training classes to ensure that partners are well equipped to position, scope, implement, and upgrade solutions for the SANsymphony-V storage hypervisor. Classes are available in both traditional instructor-led and online formats. All DataCore partners also have the opportunity to participate in DataCore’s SANcollegeSM online training program and instructor-led classroom training sessions.

Compelling Sales Value Proposition

DataCore’s SANsymphony-V storage hypervisor enables partners to build on their virtualization, cloud, and storage practices. Partners can grow sales by offering a compelling business value proposition with a solution that virtualizes existing and new storage devices and works across both physical and virtual worlds, making it easy to penetrate new accounts, enhance existing storage investments, and provide an enduring infrastructure platform to deliver future services and add-on sales.

“Our partners are the key to success and our growth is tied directly to their accomplishments,” said Linda Haury, vice president of worldwide marketing, DataCore Software. “We’ve listened closely to our channel partners and their feedback has guided us in developing this new structure. As a result, we have built a five-star, award winning channel program that brings partners the tools and resources they need most to expand their business.”

About DataCore Software

DataCore Software develops storage virtualization software leveraged in virtual and physical IT environments to obtain high availability, fast performance and maximum utilization from storage. DataCore's SANsymphony-V storage hypervisor is a comprehensive, yet hardware-independent solution which fundamentally changes the economics of provisioning, replicating and protecting storage for large enterprises and small to midsize businesses. For additional information, visit the DataCore website at www.datacore.com or call (877) 780-5111.

DataCore, the DataCore logo, SANsymphony, and SANcollege are trademarks or registered trademarks of DataCore Software Corporation. Other DataCore product or service names or logos referenced herein are trademarks of DataCore Software Corporation. All other products, services and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

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S&apos;pore delegates to explore business opportunities in Myanmar - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: A group of Singaporean businesses will descend on Myanmar next week to explore opportunities thrown up by recent economic and political reforms.

The state-sponsored, week-long visit by 115 delegates from 74 companies will cover Yangon and the political capital of Nya Pi Taw.

The visiting companies come from various industries including construction, education, finance, infrastructure and logistics.

They will embark on networking and business matching sessions with local firms, and a courtesy call with Myanmar president Thein Sein.

A Singapore-Myanmar Investment Seminar is also slated for February 15 at the Myanmar International Convention Centre in Nya Pi Taw.

International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) which are leading the visit said in a statement the trip is expected to help Singaporean firms identify areas for investment including consultancy and master planning; education and vocational training; environmental services and infrastructure.

"Recent reforms undertaken in Myanmar and positive reactions from major economies augur well for the country," Teo Eng Cheong, IE Singapore's chief executive, said in the statement.

"Singapore's connections with overseas markets place our companies in a strong position to be first movers in an emerging new market like Myanmar," Mr Teo said.

Trade between Singapore and Myanmar totalled S$1.63 billion in 2011 and S$1.69 billion in 2010, said IE Singapore.

Apart from being the fourth largest trading partner, Singapore also provided some US$1.8 billion of foreign direct investments to Myanmar as at October last year.

- CNA/fa

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S&apos;pore delegates to explore business opportunities in Myanmar - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: A group of Singaporean businesses will descend on Myanmar next week to explore opportunities thrown up by recent economic and political reforms.

The state-sponsored, week-long visit by 115 delegates from 74 companies will cover Yangon and the political capital of Nya Pi Taw.

The visiting companies come from various industries including construction, education, finance, infrastructure and logistics.

They will embark on networking and business matching sessions with local firms, and a courtesy call with Myanmar president Thein Sein.

A Singapore-Myanmar Investment Seminar is also slated for February 15 at the Myanmar International Convention Centre in Nya Pi Taw.

International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) which are leading the visit said in a statement the trip is expected to help Singaporean firms identify areas for investment including consultancy and master planning; education and vocational training; environmental services and infrastructure.

"Recent reforms undertaken in Myanmar and positive reactions from major economies augur well for the country," Teo Eng Cheong, IE Singapore's chief executive, said in the statement.

"Singapore's connections with overseas markets place our companies in a strong position to be first movers in an emerging new market like Myanmar," Mr Teo said.

Trade between Singapore and Myanmar totalled S$1.63 billion in 2011 and S$1.69 billion in 2010, said IE Singapore.

Apart from being the fourth largest trading partner, Singapore also provided some US$1.8 billion of foreign direct investments to Myanmar as at October last year.

- CNA/fa

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S&apos;pore delegates to explore business opportunities in Myanmar - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: A group of Singaporean businesses will descend on Myanmar next week to explore opportunities thrown up by recent economic and political reforms.

The state-sponsored, week-long visit by 115 delegates from 74 companies will cover Yangon and the political capital of Nya Pi Taw.

The visiting companies come from various industries including construction, education, finance, infrastructure and logistics.

They will embark on networking and business matching sessions with local firms, and a courtesy call with Myanmar president Thein Sein.

A Singapore-Myanmar Investment Seminar is also slated for February 15 at the Myanmar International Convention Centre in Nya Pi Taw.

International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) which are leading the visit said in a statement the trip is expected to help Singaporean firms identify areas for investment including consultancy and master planning; education and vocational training; environmental services and infrastructure.

"Recent reforms undertaken in Myanmar and positive reactions from major economies augur well for the country," Teo Eng Cheong, IE Singapore's chief executive, said in the statement.

"Singapore's connections with overseas markets place our companies in a strong position to be first movers in an emerging new market like Myanmar," Mr Teo said.

Trade between Singapore and Myanmar totalled S$1.63 billion in 2011 and S$1.69 billion in 2010, said IE Singapore.

Apart from being the fourth largest trading partner, Singapore also provided some US$1.8 billion of foreign direct investments to Myanmar as at October last year.

- CNA/fa

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Coach Broker Announces Business Opportunities During London Olympics - News Channel 25

Information contained on this page is provided by companies via press release distributed through PR Newswire, an independent third-party content provider. PR Newswire, WorldNow and this Station make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.

SOURCE Coach Broker Corporate

LONDON, February 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Get your business seen by millions by wrapping a coach or minibus with your company's logo and branding during the London 2012 Olympic Games!

Coach Broker is the UK's leading provider of chauffeur driven coach and minibus services and as one of the country's busiest and most sought after providers, Coach Broker will be undertaking a large number of bookings during the London 2012 Olympics. Coach Broker are offering companies the chance to take advantage of the coach providers strong presence on London city streets during the Olympics through company branding on Coach Broker vehicles.

The city of London will be showcased on the world stage when the Olympic Games arrives on July 27th as the population of London is expected to swell to 11 million as scores of visitors descend on the capital to witness this world renowned event.

Don't let this unique marketing opportunity pass you by, ensure your business is highly visible during the London Olympics and gains valuable exposure by branding one of the state of the art coaches which will be travelling around the capital throughout the 2012 Games.

Coach Broker boasts an impressive fleet of executive style coaches and luxury minibuses and double-decker coaches so not surprisingly, Coach Broker's services are in high demand during the London Olympics with bookings being taken to transport VIP guests, national teams competing at the Games and also sporting officials.

Only the very highest standard of vehicle will be used to transport these high profile passengers, so what better opportunity is there to market your business than by wrapping one of these top spec vehicles with your company's logo and branding?

The marketing team at Coach Broker will oversee the complete transformation your chosen vehicle, arranging every aspect of the vehicle wrapping process. In the past, Coach Broker have worked with a number of well known brands who've chosen to brand a vehicle for advertising purposes so Coach Broker are ideally placed to take care of the entire wrapping process on your behalf.

The streets of London won't be this busy again for a long time so make sure your company is highly visible during the Olympics by branding a coach or minibus through Coach Broker.

Visit our website at http://www.coachbroker.co.uk  or get in touch with our corporate team or call Alex Drummond on 0871 789 6655 to discuss the London Olympics coach branding opportunities with Coach Broker. 

Website: http://www.coachbroker.co.uk - Tel: +44(0)871-789-66-77

©2012 PR Newswire. All Rights Reserved.

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Firm turns dishwasher shortage into business opportunity - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: Restaurants may be doing brisk business, but that has created a headache for some bosses.

That's because they are finding it hard to hire people to clean their dishes!

Well, one company has turned this into a business opportunity.

Synnovate Solutions collects crates of dirty plates from restaurants across Singapore.

The plates are then fed into a giant dishwasher via a conveyer belt.

And in 5-10 minutes, they emerge sparkling clean.

The dishes are usually brought in at night, and then returned at dawn.

It takes three people to do the job, and in a typical 8-hour shift, staff can handle about 15,000 to 20,000 dishes a day.

The same number of plates would take 20 people to clean by hand.

Synnovate Solutions director-general, Lawrence Loh, said: "For example, 10 restaurants need 10 dish washers. With our service...we can actually operate with the same efficiency with three men. That's how you can cut down on costs and manpower."

And the savings can be considerable - about 20 to 50 percent in dishwashing costs.

The company says its clients are mainly smaller-sized eateries and catering companies which have difficulty hiring cleaners, or whose premises are too small to accommodate a large dishwashing machine.

But interest has picked up among bigger players too. The company says it has been approached by several restaurant chains and hotels.

- CNA/ir

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Firm turns dishwasher shortage into business opportunity - Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: Restaurants may be doing brisk business, but that has created a headache for some bosses.

That's because they are finding it hard to hire people to clean their dishes!

Well, one company has turned this into a business opportunity.

Synnovate Solutions collects crates of dirty plates from restaurants across Singapore.

The plates are then fed into a giant dishwasher via a conveyer belt.

And in 5-10 minutes, they emerge sparkling clean.

The dishes are usually brought in at night, and then returned at dawn.

It takes three people to do the job, and in a typical 8-hour shift, staff can handle about 15,000 to 20,000 dishes a day.

The same number of plates would take 20 people to clean by hand.

Synnovate Solutions director-general, Lawrence Loh, said: "For example, 10 restaurants need 10 dish washers. With our service...we can actually operate with the same efficiency with three men. That's how you can cut down on costs and manpower."

And the savings can be considerable - about 20 to 50 percent in dishwashing costs.

The company says its clients are mainly smaller-sized eateries and catering companies which have difficulty hiring cleaners, or whose premises are too small to accommodate a large dishwashing machine.

But interest has picked up among bigger players too. The company says it has been approached by several restaurant chains and hotels.

- CNA/ir

View the original article here