Pi Securities welcomes their new CEO, Bob Wouters – ready to unlock Pi’s potential and drive the digital transformation
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022
Bangkok, Thailand – Pi Securities Public Company Limited or “Pi”, one of Thailand leading securities brokers and provider of comprehensive investment services appointed their new Chief Executive Officer Mr. Bob Wouters to drive the growth and digital transformation of the company.
Bob is a seasoned transformation leader in financial services with a strong track record of building and growing companies. He joins Pi Financial from bolttech and FWD Insurance where he was CEO of its non-life insurance company in Thailand and as country manager also responsible for Bolttech’s Thai digital insurance broker and device protection business.
Bob has over a decade of experience in the Thai market where he initially helped divesting ING Life’s operations to FWD. His experience in transforming, digitalizing and growing companies in the Thai market provides him with the background needed to guide Pi Financial through the rapidly changing landscape of securities brokerage.
“I am excited to join the team at Pi and help capture the lead in the digital disruption that has started in the Thai securities brokerage space. In leveraging Pi’s strong technical and commercial capabilities to our newly developed digital platform I believe we can provide superior support to our existing customers and win a new generation of investors.
We will continue to invest in our traditional business and aim to grow that part through “digital with a human touch” by minimizing paperwork our customers and advisors can truly focus on the opportunities in the market – both in Thailand and globally.
We are unlocking the potential of the company through our people so our “Pi Application” and platform will help grow financial inclusivity in Thailand by bringing attractive products and new ways of trading and investing,” Bob said.
Centara Extends Management Agreement with Centara Pattaya Hotel and Centara Nova Hotel & Spa Pattaya
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022
This exciting arrangement will see Centara managing these properties for another five years
Centara Hotels & Resorts has confirmed the signing of hotel management agreement extensions by Thirayuth Chirathivat, CEO of Centara Hotels & Resorts, Rony Fineman, owner of Centara Pattaya Hotel and Centara Nova Hotel & Spa Pattaya, and Lon Ballard, owner of Centara Pattaya Hotel, to continue managing these renowned properties in one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations for a period of five more years.
Located in the heart of central Pattaya, a short walk from shopping, restaurants and the famed Pattaya Beach, Centara Pattaya Hotel provides a haven of relaxation in the midst of all the action.
Guests have access to a sparkling outdoor pool, two bars, an all-day dining venue and a rejuvenating spa. With a variety of guest rooms, including family-friendly studios and spacious suites, and multifunctional meeting spaces, this hotel offers convenience and comfort during every stay.
Ideal for families and couples, Centara Nova Hotel & Spa Pattaya offers 79 tastefully designed and well-appointed rooms and suites, each with a furnished balcony overlooking the pool, complete with a swim-up bar, terrace, jacuzzi and children’s pool.
The hotel also features an all-day dining venue, a pool bar, the award-winning SPA Cenvaree and modern meeting spaces. Just minutes away from sprawling Pattaya Beach, this hotel’s central location means local attractions, shopping, food, golf and water sports are always within easy reach.
Both Centara Hotel Pattaya and Centara Nova Hotel & Spa Pattaya are only a 90-minute drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
Hotel airport pick-ups and transfers can be arranged through the hotel at the time of booking.
Marriott International expects to introduce more than 35 luxury hotels around the world in 2023
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022
From the expansive savannas of Kenya to the pristine shores of the Caribbean, Marriott International is set to expand its global luxury footprint and is reimagining high-touch hospitality
Cannes, France – December 8, 2022 – From International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Cannes, Marriott International, Inc. today announced plans to introduce more than 35 luxury hotels in 2023, delivering the unique and meaningful experiences desired by today’s luxury traveler. Boasting an unrivaled portfolio of luxury brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, W Hotels, The Luxury Collection, EDITION, JW Marriott and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International continues to push the boundaries, reimagining travel with a globally inspired perspective that defines the future of luxury. With an unparalleled footprint of nearly 500 luxury hotels and resorts in 68 countries and territories today, Marriott International is poised to further its position as the global leader in luxury hospitality with more than 200 luxury properties in the development pipeline. From Kenya to Singapore and Japan to Mexico, more than 35 new hotels are slated to open next year in sought-after and emerging destinations around the world.
Luxury’s Great Reimagining
The world has experienced a seismic cultural shift following the events of the last several years, according to a study exploring the impact on the values and aspirations that matter most to guests, conducted in collaboration with creative agency Team One. “We are looking to the great reimaginers, people who perceive crises as moments of opportunity to rethink their lives and reimagine the world around them. Our collective mindset has changed from viewing travel as a luxury commodity to an activity vital to overall well-being,” said Tina Edmundson, Global Brand and Marketing Officer, Marriott International. “More than ever before, our guests are prioritizing more meaningful travel and time spent with loved ones, looking for experiences that reflect their personal values and enhance their overall quality of life.”
“Whether it’s a focus on nurturing closer relationships, a desire to be more present, or finding ways to make a positive impact, across our luxury brands we are evolving to allow our guests to focus on what they believe matters most,” said Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President, Luxury Brands, Marriott International. “As we grow our portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts in some of the most iconic and compelling destinations globally, our expanding footprint allows us to offer the transformative experiences that lead to a renewed sense of purpose and enhanced mental and physical well-being for the modern luxury traveler.”
The Ritz-Carlton Leads Through Innovation While Pursuing Global Growth
Showcasing a new, contemporary aesthetic and the renowned brand’s legendary service, The Ritz-Carlton continues to lead through innovation as it thoughtfully grows its portfolio in the world’s most exciting destinations. In 2022, the iconic brand drove global buzz with debuts in New York’s NoMad neighborhood and in Amman, in addition to celebrating the launch of Evrima, the first yacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. In the year ahead, the brand expects to open two new hotels in North America, including its first property in America’s Pacific Northwest region with The Ritz-Carlton, Portland, and The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie in Arizona’s coveted Scottsdale area. Set above the city skyline, The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne is slated to grow the brand’s footprint in Australia next year, while The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is expected to deliver a new offering in the business district of this southwestern Japanese city. Ritz-Carlton Reserve anticipates expanding its exclusive portfolio in 2023 with Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve close to the historic Chinese valley of Jiuzhaigou and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve located off the West Coast of Saudi Arabia and part of the country’s Red Sea project.
St. Regis Celebrates its Vanguard Spirit in Alluring New Destinations
St. Regis continues to solidify its position as a global luxury icon by bringing its vanguard spirit, signature glamor and celebrated rituals to some of the world’s most desired destinations. Highlighting a commitment to growing its resort portfolio, in 2023 the brand expects to debut The St. Regis Kanai Resort, an enchanting haven nestled in a 620-acre nature reserve along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula with ocean views from every guestroom. In the year ahead St. Regis also anticipates expanding its footprint in North America with The St. Regis Chicago, an exquisite architectural marvel envisioned by Jeanne Gang Studio. The iconic brand is also slated to bring its acclaimed Butler Service and storied legacy to Belgrade and is expected to open its first two properties in Saudi Arabia by debuting a hotel in Riyadh and a resort located on its own private island within the Red Sea project. This past year also marked St. Regis openings in Qatar, India, Kuwait and Indonesia.
W Hotels Continues Pushing the Boundaries & Expanding to Iconic Destinations
In 2022, W Hotels introduced an evolved lens on its unassuming approach to luxury and is set to infuse subtle sophistication into each of its 67 hotels around the world. W pushes the boundaries of elevated design, regionally inspired programming and its iconic “Whatever / Whenever” service, which has been refined for the next generation of travelers. With the opening of W Algarve – atop the dramatic cliffs of Southern Portugal – and W Costa Navarino – located along the sandy shorelines of Greece – the brand debuted in two sought-after locales in 2022, providing a glimpse into W’s new vision. This year also brought further growth in the Middle East with the addition of W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, rising 31 stories above the Arabian Gulf, and in Canada with the W Toronto, which nods to the city’s rich musical heritage with Canada’s first W Sound Suite – the brand’s signature recording studio experience – and celebrates Toronto’s storied art scene, diversity of culture and legacy of inclusivity. Looking ahead to 2023, W Hotels anticipates debuting in Prague, Budapest, Edinburgh, Sydney, Macau and Milan. Also slated for later next year, W New York – Union Square and W Hollywood are expected to emerge newly transformed, embodying the fully reimagined W experience.
EDITION’s Rapid Expansion Continues in Top Destinations
EDITION, a unique luxury collection of individualized hotels considered the next chapter in the lifestyle hotel story, expanded into Madrid and Tampa in 2022. Known for sophisticated design, a curated taste of the locale, and modern service, EDITION Hotels is rapidly expanding internationally in 2023 with new openings planned across several regions, including the brand’s first properties in Italy, Mexico and Southeast Asia. With 15 hotels currently in the global portfolio, EDITION is projected to grow its personal and intimate hospitality experience to 21 total destinations by the end of 2023, with expected openings next year to include Rome, Riviera Maya at Kanai, Tokyo, Ginza, Singapore, Jeddah and Doha.
The Luxury Collection Brings Transformational Experiences and Destination-Rooted Authenticity
The Luxury Collection’s growing ensemble of more 120 hotels around the world offer the promise of authentic experiences that are highly immersive and deeply reflective of the destination. In 2022, the brand showcased elevated palatial interiors and world-class epicurean delights in Madrid with the opening of Santo Mauro, brought luxurious coastal charm to the idyllic Greek island of Paros through Cosme, and made its debut in Australia with the opening of The Tasman in Hobart, a waterfront city steeped in rich history. With each hotel serving as a portal to the destination’s unique charms, The Luxury Collection anticipates debuting properties next year in enthralling locations that span the globe, including Turkey, Barbados, Japan, Mexico and Tbilisi, Georgia.
JW Marriott Celebrates Guests through Well-Being Experiences and Exceptional Service
Inspired by its legendary namesake and offering experiences that encourage guests to be fully present, JW Marriott caters to sophisticated, mindful travelers who seek a balance in mind, body and spirit. In 2022, the brand celebrated openings in captivating destinations including São Paulo, Changsha, Istanbul, Bangalore and Frankfurt, marking the brand’s debut in Germany. In the coming year, JW Marriott anticipates continuing to bring its distinct style of warm, authentic service to established and emerging destinations with planned openings from Madrid to Jeju Island, South Korea, and Dallas to Xi’an and Berlin. The brand is also slated to enter the luxury safari segment in 2023 with the expected opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya.
One Bangkok sweeps Asia’s Best Landmark Mixed-Use Development and Thailand’s Best Office Development awards
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022
One Bangkok, the largest holistically integrated district in the heart of Bangkok has been awarded Asia’s first Best Landmark Mixed-Use Development and Best Office Development (Thailand) for its office Tower 4 at the prestigious PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2022.
These awards recognise the excellence demonstrated by One Bangkok through its outstanding quality, unique design concept, location, quality of amenities, construction, success in the marketplace, the accomplishment of overall development goals, sustainable function, and innovation.
The PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2022 is one of the region’s most renowned real estate awards where top country winners vie to be recognised as ‘Best in Asia’. One Bangkok had earlier won ‘Best Mega Mixed-Use Development’ and ‘Best Office Development’ at the 17th PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards.
Lim Hua Tiong, Chief Executive Officer, One Bangkok, said, “Recognition from Property Guru is a testament to the confidence of industry leaders in One Bangkok. Our vision and ambition for One Bangkok go beyond real estate. The design principle of One Bangkok focuses on sustainability, a people-centric and smart city. We want to make impactful changes to the city, and to be part of Bangkok city evolving into one of the world’s greatest metropolises.”
“The offices at One Bangkok emphasize health, well-being, sustainability, and quality in every detail as an affirmation to create the ultimate workplace ecosystem of the future. For office Tower 4, we engaged world-renowned consultants to deliver beautifully designed, high-performance environments with flexibility and efficiency for the best occupant experience. It is also the first office tower in Thailand underpinned by future-ready smart technology, targeting WiredScore and SmartScore certifications, and is designed for WELL Platinum certification, ensuring the physical and social environments will benefit the health, well-being, and performance of occupants.” he added.
One Bangkok, a joint venture between TCC Assets Co Ltd and Frasers Property Holdings (Thailand) Co., Ltd. is located at the corner of Wireless and Rama 4 roads with direct linkages to the city’s burgeoning mass transit systems. One Bangkok comprises workplaces of the future, a new retail loop, superlative residences, hotels with the finest five-star hospitality, a world-class live entertainment arena, the presence of art and culture, and a vast, welcoming public realm that covers 50 rai (8 hectares) of the district. As a well-equipped smart city with sustainable infrastructure, One Bangkok aims to be the first project in Thailand to be awarded LEED for Neighborhood Development Platinum certification and WELL Building Standard to support human health and wellness.
The day after Argentina beat France to claim their third World Cup title, the streets of Doha, once packed with soccer fans and tourists, were eerily empty on Monday (December 19).
The teams have all left and with them, the fans and commotion, even the bunting around the city was being stripped along with the temporary fencing that corralled the throngs in town for the soccer tournament.
In the Corniche area, a picturesque boardwalk that served as the backdrop for countless social media posts, workers pulled down branding and World Cup installations and swept away the dust.
Charming wooden boats that had lined the bay had mostly lifted anchor and left the scenic area.
Argentina fans Tomas Capa and Jesica Inamorato, in town for the Cup, said it was a stark contrast to the night before when they celebrated their side’s title well into the early morning hours.
“It’s crazy. It’s a ghost town here after such a big party, one day to the next in just a few hours,” Capa said.
“But yeah, who cares. Yesterday was amazing. We watched the sunrise dancing with our compatriots. You can tell by my voice what a good time we had,” added Inamorato.
A handful of tourists and diners still milled about the souq market area, but it was a far cry from the raucous crowds that packed the winding alley ways to celebrate World Cup victories throughout the tournament.
The shift leader at a souq restaurant, Amad Rammal, said he was surprised at how quickly the city had emptied out.
“When I woke up this morning, I thought it would also be busy, but it’s very quiet today. Not like before,” he said.
Polakrit and Alisa Granted 2-Year Junior Asian Tour Cards
MONDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2022
THE NATION
Polakrit Pawichai and Alisa Inprasit successfully earned their two-year membership on the Junior Asian Tour following their victories in the A Boys and A Girls’ events after the final round of the qualifying competition at Lake View Resort & Golf Club in Cha-Am on Monday.
Starting the day with four over par, Polakrit was at the top of his game, firing five birdies against a lone bogey on the third hole to sign off with a 68 and a total even-par-216 to win the A Boys title (age 15-18) as overnight leader Kaichen Xia of China trailed four shots behind on 220.
“I stuck to my game plan, hitting the fairways and greens more than in the first two rounds. I wish I could have done better but an even par after three rounds should be fine,” said Polakrit who as the winner will receive a card for the 2023-2024 season to compete on the Junior Asian Tour which starts in January. Xia, meanwhile, received a 12-month membership on the 2023 tour.
“I can hardly wait to play next year. This year I have played mostly on the All Thailand Golf Tour and barely competed in amateur events. So, next year I plan to play more on the amateur tours so that I can have enough points to play in the Asia Pacific tournament,’’ he added.
National junior player Alisa recovered from back-to-back bogeys on the second and third holes to shoot four birdies after the turn and end her campaign with a final 70 and on six under-par-210 in the A Girls division.
“I’m pretty satisfied with my performance as I can shoot under-par after three days. I didn’t start well today by bogeying on the second and third holes. My wedge really let me down. Bu things started getting better after I made two birdies in a row on the 12th and 13th holes,” said the 16-year-old girl from Nakhon Ratchasima, a champion in an American Junior Golf Association tournament in Haymarket, Virgina this year.
In B class (age 13 – 14), Tantikorn Klinpeng, another product from the Thongchai Jaidee golf academy, closed with a 73 and on 10 over-par-226 to claim the boys’ title with Napat Thongjen falling six shots back. Nitchakamol Panapisal with four birdies against three bogeys produced a final 71 and on three over-par-219 to beat Louise Uma Landgraf from Phuket by five strokes.
The winners of each category (including those in C Boys and C Girls on Sunday) will be granted a two-year card on the Junior Asian Tour starting from next year. Players who finish no more than 12-over par in each category will receive a year membership for the 2023 season.
A total of six Asian Junior Tour events will be competed on the 2023 calendar starting from the inaugural tournament between January 27 and 29 at the Southern Hill and Country Club in Songkhla. The tour will be run in accordance with professional standards recognized worldwide.
Apart from opportunities to compete in international junior events, youngsters with outstanding results on the Asian Junior Tour will receive wildcards into prestigious events on the LPGA, Ladies European Tour, Asian Tour and TrustGolf Tour in Thailand.
The Junior Asian Tour 2023 Qualifying School is supported by TrustGolf, an indoor training center with advanced technology, Trust Pharmacy, Silicon Marina, Ditto, B. Grimm Company, Bangkok Bank, Bond Holdings, LMV, Bridgestone, Adidas Golf, Leborn, Balance Golf Nutrition and Lake View Resort & Golf Club. Fans can catch up the latest updates about the tour on Junior Asian Tour Facebook Fanpage.