Newsroom

Corporate directors are entering 2026 with a sharpened focus on disciplined strategic execution, workforce agility and technology transformation, according to the National Association of Corporate Directors® (NACD®) "2026 Governance Outlook Report," which is informed by an annual survey of more than 24,000 NACD members.

While economic volatility remains directors' top concern, with more than 30% expecting a recession in 2026, a majority remain confident in their companies' growth prospects. Directors report a decisive shift toward rigorous oversight of strategy execution, CEO succession planning and the workforce skills maintenance and adaptability required as AI and other technologies reshape business models. The findings reflect a boardroom environment centered on long-term value creation, organizational resilience and leadership readiness.

"Directors recognize that succeeding in this environment requires clarity of purpose and disciplined follow-through," said Peter Gleason, president and CEO of NACD. "Boards are focusing on execution and workforce agility. The successful convergence of talent and technology will determine whether companies can innovate, adapt and execute their strategic commitments. The pace of change isn't slowing, and effective boardroom leadership is more critical than ever."

Key Trends for Boards in 2026

The survey identifies three dominant themes shaping board agendas in the new year.

Strategic execution: Directors are sharpening their scrutiny of how strategy is implemented, measured and adjusted in real time:

• More than 60% cite strategy execution as the top oversight improvement area.
• More than 60% of boards are increasing strategy discussions during meetings.
• More than 40% are increasing engagement between meetings.
• Directors also report concerns about organizational agility and resource alignment.

People: Boards are elevating oversight of leadership development, succession planning and workforce readiness:

• CEO succession planning ranks as the most important board practice needing improvement in 2026.
• Directors also report workforce adaptability, organizational agility and shortages of skilled employees as the top barriers to strategy execution.
• Only one-third of directors say they are strongly confident in their board's collective skill set, and about 14% are concerned that their boards do not have the capabilities needed for the year ahead.

Technology: Directors expect continued investment in AI, cybersecurity and digital transformation, along with stronger measurement and oversight of technology outcomes:

• Seventy-six percent of directors say AI will factor into their 2026 growth strategy, but most organizations report only slight or moderate success in realizing operational or financial benefits from these investments.
• Directors underscore the need for clearer performance metrics, better alignment between workforce skills and technology goals, and more disciplined evaluation of technology initiatives.

Partner Insights Provide Broader Context

The "2026 Governance Outlook" also includes articles from governance, audit and consulting leaders, offering broader perspectives on governance challenges and emerging risks in the evolving business conditions. Contributors include:

• FGS Global: "Board governance in a polarized environment"
• Deloitte: "Unlock value with PE portfolio company governance"
• CAQ: "The future of audit regulation: A call for adaptive oversight"
• RSM: "The governance challenges of M&A in a changing market"
• NACD: "Five technologies directors should prepare to engage with in 2026"

Together, these perspectives provide practical guidance for boards navigating technology acceleration, regulatory pressure, market change and the growing importance of disciplined execution in 2026.

About the "Governance Outlook Report"

The annual NACD "Governance Outlook Report" is one of corporate directors' most trusted resources for navigating risk and opportunity and shaping their board agendas. Its in-depth research and articles from NACD and its partners help boards anticipate the issues most likely to affect governance practices and corporate performance in the year ahead.

About NACD

The National Association of Corporate Directors® (NACD®) is the leading member organization for corporate directors who want to expand their knowledge, grow their network and maximize their potential. For more than 48 years, NACD has helped boards and the business community elevate their performance and create long-term value. Our leadership continues to raise standards of excellence and advance board effectiveness at thousands of member companies.

NACD's value insights, professional development events and resources, such as the NACD Directors Summit™ and the NACD Directorship Certification® program, support boards in navigating complex challenges. With a growing network of more than 24,000 members across more than 20 Chapters, boards are better equipped to make well-informed decisions on the critical, strategic issues facing their businesses today. Learn more at www.nacdonline.org.

Media Contact

Shannon Bernauer
sbernauer@nacdonline.org
+1 571-367-3688

The Each Child Foundation (ECF) has announced its efforts to broaden its philanthropic reach and deepen community partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for underserved children ages one through five. By prioritizing collaboration with local organizations and families, ECF aims to strengthen the networks that nurture children’s growth and resilience. The foundation’s vision centers on building community-rooted infrastructure that reduces barriers and fosters long-term stability and opportunity.

“Progress for children begins when communities come together,” says founder and chairman Stanley Fulton. “I founded The Each Child Foundation because I believe that childhood should be defined by possibility and care, and that shared responsibility can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.” His words reflect ECF’s commitment to collaboration and stewardship as the foundation of lasting change.

Support generated through this effort is intended to advance ECF’s funding framework, which centers on investing in systems and programs designed to address multiple dimensions of a child’s well-being. Rather than focusing on a single issue, ECF approaches funding as a way to reinforce interconnected support gateways that reflect how children and families experience daily life. This framework guides investments toward initiatives that promote housing stability, food access, early education, and health and wellness, recognizing that progress in one area is often strengthened by attention to others.

To translate this framework into tangible impact, ECF relies on Trusti, its dedicated funding arm that channels resources where they’re needed. Trusti was founded to help ECF fulfill its mission of helping shift trajectories for young children by supporting wraparound access to essential resources. “We work with educators, healthcare providers, housing organizations, and community leaders to reinforce networks that already exist and to help fill gaps where access may be limited,” Fulton states. “We envision communities where children, regardless of circumstance, are supported by environments that encourage learning, safety, and belonging.”

The foundation’s program models are guided by a whole-child philosophy. Investments often support school readiness initiatives that combine family engagement with early learning opportunities, along with wellness programs that aim to connect education, health, and caregiving services. Seasonal and summer programming is designed to encourage creativity, connection, and enrichment, while STEM and literacy initiatives typically emphasize hands-on learning experiences that can help nurture curiosity and confidence. These models are chosen with consideration for outcomes that may benefit children and families.

At the same time, ECF prioritizes innovation and systems design. Funding considerations include research efforts that explore childhood illness and disparities, integrated service platforms that better connect education, housing, and health resources, and technology-enabled learning tools that can broaden access and engagement. By supporting initiatives that consider design, implementation, and evaluation together, ECF aims to encourage approaches that are responsive to community needs and adaptable over time.

Partnerships remain central to this strategy. ECF seeks collaborative initiatives that align organizations, families, and local leaders around shared goals for children. Its governance structure, guided by an active Board of Directors, supports this work through strategic oversight and transparency. This approach reflects ECF’s core values of integrity, equity, and trust, as well as its belief that progress is built through listening and shared leadership.

By encouraging support that reflects its values and framework, The Each Child Foundation seeks to serve as a steward for initiatives that strengthen families and expand opportunity. “Our funding model will continue to evolve alongside our mission,” Fulton explains. “We invite businesses, families, and individuals to join us because when we create a shared investment in children’s earliest years, even small contributions can come together to build something truly significant.”

Media Contact

Stanley Fulton
info@eachchildfoundation.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale yet, announced today that Michael Shenfeld of Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty has joined the platform as the Local Expert for buyers and homeowners across ZIP codes 60093, 60022, 60043, 60062, 60015, 60035, and 60607. His addition expands Unlisted’s presence across both Chicago and the North Shore, two interconnected markets Shenfeld has served for more than twenty years.

Unlisted’s technology introduces new opportunities across the real estate landscape. Buyers gain new ways to discover homes that match their lifestyle beyond what is listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain a clearer sense of interest in their property and the ability to connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain tools that highlight their expertise, deepen their community presence, and spark meaningful conversations.

The platform uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These profiles can be searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria, even if they are not currently for sale. For homeowners, these records provide insight into how their property fits into local demand and broaden their sense of what may be possible.

Each vetted real estate professional in Unlisted’s network receives an agent profile connected to every home within their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP to emphasize credibility, local knowledge, and trusted expertise. As the network continues to grow, Unlisted remains committed to fostering clarity, connection, and opportunity for buyers, homeowners, and agents.

Michael brings an extensive record of leadership and top-tier production to his role as a Local Expert with a global network. With over two decades of experience, he has built a reputation for exceptional client care, strategic negotiation, and a deep understanding of both Chicago and the North Shore. As founder of The Shenfeld Group LLC and a global real estate advisor at Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty, he supports buyers, sellers, and investors across a wide range of goals.

Michael was born and raised on the North Shore and has lived in Chicago for more than twenty five years, giving him firsthand understanding of the movement between the two markets. Many of his clients rely on this dual expertise as they transition from one area to the other or are referred to him by other Agents across the country. 

Since joining Sotheby’s as a senior vice president of sales, Michael has become a sought-after speaker for virtual real estate panels around the world. His global referral network has grown through years of collaboration with other Sotheby’s agents and market leaders. He prioritizes building strong personal and professional relationships because it allows him to match clients with the right partners in any market. His commitment to advocacy and professionalism earned him the City Residential Huzenis Award in 2020, an honor voted on by his peers, along with earning a Top 20 Teams spot out of all Chicago realtors, as well as the top one and a half percent of agents nationwide. 

Outside of his work, Michael enjoys boating, traveling, golfing, and photography. He is also passionate about cooking for friends and family. Above all, he is the proud father of two daughters who bring purpose and joy to his life.

"Working in both the city and the North Shore has given me a unique perspective on how people live and move between these communities," Shenfeld said. "I am excited to bring this resource to the areas I serve." 

"Michael’s depth of experience and commitment to client service align strongly with the values of our Local Expert network," said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. "We are very proud to have him join our platform." 

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com. For Unlisted for Agents, visit UnlistedHomes.com/Agents. 

To learn more about Michael Shenfeld, visit his Unlisted Profile or Sotheby’s International Realty.

About Unlisted

Unlisted unlocks the potential in homes that aren’t for sale — yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale — in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. Selected for TechCrunch’s 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 as one of the top tech startups globally, and backed by HearstLab, Hearst Newspapers, VC414, StageNext Fund, and prominent angel investors, Unlisted gives buyers a competitive edge in today’s challenging housing market. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Maura Racz
maura@unlistedinc.com

Roundtable, the world’s only Web3 digital media platform, and The Hockey News (THN), Hockey’s most respected media brand, today announced the companies have entered into a ten-year exclusive platform agreement. This follows Roundtable’s successful one-year pilot, managing THN’s end-to-end operations, including all digital publishing, commerce, distribution, ad-tech and sales, and data services — all integrated on the world’s only full stack, blockchain-based platform — moving major media from Web1 to Web3.

Roundtable CEO, James Heckman, and The Hockey News owner, W. W. Graeme Roustan announced the venture includes a new partnership with the International Ice Hockey Federation, which will launch during the 2026 Winter Olympics in February. Mr. Roustan, former chair of Bauer Hockey, has agreed to join Roundtable’s board of directors, in anticipation of merger with NASDAQ-listed payment company, RYVYL, Inc. (RVYL).

“Roundtable’s next-generation, Web3 media operating system, designed by Roundtable co-founder, Eyal Hertzog, inventor of DeFi technology, is in position to change the game for major media brands, as significantly as cloud hosting,” explained Heckman. “The successful test with The Hockey News created a breakout moment for Roundtable, signing nearly 200 SaaS partnerships since fall including 32 custom NHL team apps associated with The Hockey News, and every other major professional sports team in North America." (The complete NHL team app list can be found here.)

As part of the partnership, True Hockey, a leading premium hockey equipment manufacturer, also owned by W. Graeme Roustan, has committed to a long-term advertising and sponsorship agreement valued at approximately $15 million, further validating the platform’s commercial scale and advertiser performance.

Roustan originally partnered with Heckman’s technology platform Maven and the partnership became an early success story for Sports Illustrated, which laid the groundwork for The Hockey News’ test of Roundtable’s decentralized Web3 infrastructure in 2025.

“This was not a theoretical test,” said W. Graeme Roustan, owner and publisher of The Hockey News. “We operated the platform in real conditions, engaged with tens of millions of our fans, for the entirety of 2025. The performance, scalability, and control Roundtable’s Web3 platform provided over our audience, data, and revenue simply does not exist elsewhere in media today.”

Founded more than seven decades ago, The Hockey News is widely regarded as the most authoritative hockey publication in the world, second only to NHL.com in brand recognition. Since being acquired by Roustan in 2018, the company has transformed from a primarily print-focused legacy brand into the largest independent digital media network covering the NHL.

“We took a major risk in 2018, trusting our traditional brand with a new technology platform,” Roustan said. “It paid off — and so when Heckman approached us again last year with an even more aggressive proposal, this time involving Web3 reporting and payments, we were cautious but intrigued. Once again the risk paid off, and I’m proud to be the first enterprise licensee; we chose to position ourselves on the forefront of innovation; helping usher the industry forward.”

Roundtable’s fully integrated SaaS platform features include:

• Digital publishing and content management
• Secure, encrypted audience and financial databases
• Advertising sales operations with real-time reporting
• Distribution and syndication infrastructure
• Community features including the world’s first, on-demand video threads
• Integrated reporting and payment systems
• Custom white-label mobile applications for each of 32 NHL teams
• Blockchain-based media liquidity pool enabling real-time revenue settlement

The platform is designed to give media brands absolute ownership and control of all data, audience, IP, and monetization without reliance on centralized social platforms.

“The core benefit is independence,” said James Heckman, founder and CEO of Roundtable. “W. Graeme Roustan has consistently been willing to innovate when others hesitate. This partnership demonstrates that decentralized media can outperform legacy systems, while giving publishers full control. It took a great entrepreneur like Mr. Roustan to understand the potential and jump in head first, first. We’re honored to be his partner for the next decade.”

For consumers, the partnership delivers an integrated fan experience that combines professional journalism with team-specific community engagement. Users gain access to authoritative reporting, dedicated team apps, live discussions, video, and integrated commerce in a single environment, with direct interaction between fans and professional journalists.

About Roundtable

Roundtable is a Web3 digital media SaaS platform, providing decentralized publishing, commerce, data, syndication, network distribution, ad sales and operations, as well as community platforms and custom apps for major media and professional journalist brands. Roundtable has signed a definitive agreement to merge with NASDAQ-listed payment platform, RYVYL, Inc., (RVYL), and anticipates merger during Q3 of 2026. For more information visit RTB.io.

About The Hockey News

Founded in 1947, The Hockey News is the most respected and authoritative hockey publication in the world, covering the NHL and international hockey across digital and global platforms and operates a network of custom team apps for every NHL team. For more information visit thehockeynews.com.

Disclaimer

This article was provided by Roundtable, the subject of the story. Roundtable and its affiliates have a direct financial interest in the securities of the company discussed. This communication should not be construed as investment advice.

Media Contact

Press Team
press@roundtable.io

Sanctions can serve as a real financial mechanism for compensation and the reconstruction of Ukraine. Issues of compensation for victims of the war, sanctions policy, and anti-corruption reforms in post-war recovery were among the key topics at UNCAC CoSP11, held in Doha, Qatar. The analytical center Institute of Legislative Ideas took part in this global anti-corruption event as a co-organizer and as the civil society focal point for Ukraine.

During the international discussion, ILI Chairwoman Tetiana Khutor, noted that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began with state capture — systematic penetration into politics, the economy, the media, and strategic assets.

“Wars rarely start with tanks. Ukraine’s experience shows that long before 2022, Russia attempted to take over Ukraine without weapons — through corruption networks, proxy structures, and control over critical infrastructure. Corruption became a key instrument of this process. State capture did not prevent the full-scale invasion — it prepared the ground for it,” she emphasized.

The expert added that Ukraine’s response has been to strengthen its anti-corruption infrastructure, apply sanctions, use wartime asset confiscation, and develop an investment screening system as tools to genuinely block and neutralize hostile influence — before it turns into a military threat. This experience is universal and relevant far beyond Ukraine.

The ILI also brought to the international discussion one of the most complex issues following war and mass human rights violations: how to make perpetrators pay and ensure that victims actually receive compensation. Tetiana Khutor presented analysis on how sanctions can function as a real financial mechanism for compensation. Using concrete examples from the United States, Canada, and the EU, she demonstrated how these mechanisms already work in practice and what is needed to scale them globally.

“Those who caused harm must pay. The core logic is simple and principled: if an individual or a company facilitated the circumvention of sanctions related to armed aggression, the financial consequences of such violations should be directed toward compensating the damage caused by that aggression. For the ILI, this is systematic work to ensure that justice has a financial dimension and that impunity carries a real cost,” Tetiana Khutor said.

Within the framework of the conference, the ILI co-organized an event focused on integrating anti-corruption tools into post-war recovery so that risks are identified before decisions are made, rather than after scandals emerge. The Head of the ILI stressed that the resilience of Ukraine’s anti-corruption system is the result of constant stress-testing and the role of civil society, which prevents the system from breaking down. The key to this resilience is prevention, particularly at the lawmaking stage.

The ILI also presented the concept of an AI-based system for anti-corruption analysis of legislation. Built on extensive expert datasets, the system enables the automated identification of corruption indicators in draft laws; structuring of risks by type and level of threat; operation through separate user accounts for different users; continuous learning from new data and practice; and transparent, scalable publication of analysis results.

About Institute of Legislative Ideas

The Institute of Legislative Ideas is an independent analytical center working on legislative reforms in Ukraine. Its mission is to analyze public policy, identify problems, and find solutions so that citizens feel protected and comfortable in their country. The Institute works to build a country of equal opportunities, strengthen democracy, and uphold the rule of law.

The organization promotes the development of accountable institutions, expands opportunities for citizens to participate in decision-making, supports the implementation of reforms based on the principles of openness, effectiveness, and democratic governance, and contributes to securing international support for Ukraine. For more information, visit izi.institute.

Disclaimer

This media content is produced by NGO Institute of Legislative Ideas with the support of the Askold and Dir Fund as part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine — a Driver of Reforms and Democracy project, implemented by ISAR Ednannia, funded by Norway and Sweden. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of NGO Institute of Legislative Ideas and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the Government of Norway, the Government of Sweden and ISAR Ednannia.

Media Contact

Bogdan Pavlenko
communications@izi.institute
+380 99 925 5495

Sunnov Investment tracks Synopsys’ fourth-quarter update as a litmus test for the technology deal cycle, and seeks to answer the question, "Can a bigger, more integrated software platform translate scale into durable demand and cash?"

For the fourth quarter of its latest fiscal year, Synopsys reports record revenue of $2.3 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $2.9, landing at the top end of its stated outlook for the period. Over the 12 months ending in that same fiscal year, revenue totals $7.1 billion, up 15% versus the preceding 12-month period’s $6.1 billion, while free cash flow reaches about $1.4 billion over the same 12 months on faster collections.

Backlog stands near $10.9 billion at fiscal year-end, giving management leverage with customers that sign multi-year agreements and investors who want visibility. The Ansys acquisition contributes roughly $668 million of revenue in the latest quarter, widening the story from electronic design automation into broader engineering simulation. Thomas Gardner, director of private equity at Sunnov Investment, sees “a results packet that keeps the spotlight on repeatable revenue, not financial engineering,” with backlog acting as “contract-level proof that budgets stay committed.”

Guidance for the next fiscal year calls for revenue between $9.6 billion and $9.7 billion over that coming 12-month cycle, with Ansys expected to contribute about $2.9 billion at the midpoint. The shares trade modestly lower in after-hours dealings even as the headline figures clear expectations, a reminder that investors want evidence that the combined roadmap tightens execution.

In Sunnov Investment’s assessment, the operational center of gravity sits with design automation, where revenue rises about 65% in the latest quarter compared with the same quarter a year earlier and the adjusted operating margin reaches 41.5% in that period, up from 37% in the comparable quarter a year earlier. Gardner calls the margin spread “the cleanest evidence that scale is arriving with discipline intact,” adding that “integration only earns its keep when it pulls capabilities forward and simplifies procurement for customers."

Verification and AI-enabled workflows remain central to the pitch. Synopsys reports 12 competitive wins in hardware-assisted verification during the latest quarter, and the HAPS-200 prototyping platform targets 4x stronger debug capability versus the prior generation. Management also cites about 5,000 active users of its AI-enabled design tools at the end of the latest quarter, positioning automation as a productivity lever for teams facing rising design complexity.

Design IP offers a more complicated subplot. Revenue comes in at $1.7 billion over the latest 12-month fiscal period, down 8% from the preceding 12 months, and the adjusted operating margin sits at 13.8% in the latest quarter after hovering near 47% in the same quarter two years earlier. A six-week export restriction episode and a major partner withdrawal highlight confidence risk, even as management pivots towards non-recurring engineering fees, usage charges and royalties over the next fiscal year.

Deal-making still sets the frame. Synopsys positions the Ansys combination as expanding its total addressable market to about $31.1 billion in materials released with this quarter’s results, while a 10% workforce reduction progresses over the next 12 months as cost synergies move from modeling to implementation. In parallel, an expanded partnership with NVIDIA includes a $2 billion equity investment priced at $416 per share and a multi-year plan to connect Synopsys’s AgentEngineer with NVIDIA’s agentic AI stack, which Gardner describes as “a strategic signal that design software is converging with AI infrastructure.”

The market’s next question is straightforward: can a larger Synopsys keep converting backlog into cash, sustain margins, and stabilize IP monetization while integration demands management attention every day?

Sunnov Investment views the latest quarter as the opening chapter of that proof cycle, with reporting discipline and customer commitments set to determine the next leg of the story.

About Sunnov Investment

Sunnov Investment is a Singapore-based investment manager founded in 2012, serving accredited investors, foundations and endowments worldwide. It runs long-only equity strategies, complemented by long/short equity, global macro, event-driven and systematic mandates, and it continues to develop structured routes for eligible retail participation. To learn more, visit sunnov.com.

Disclaimer

This press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer, or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. The views and opinions expressed reflect the analysis of Sunnov Investment as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Any forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual outcomes to differ materially. Readers should conduct their own independent research or consult a qualified financial adviser before making investment decisions.

Media Contact

Deng Hui
d.hui@sunnov.com

The way people pay is shifting. Quietly, the systems that handle billions of daily transactions are undergoing structural rewiring. In most industries, this change is happening behind the scenes. But in online gaming, especially where money moves frequently and across borders, the effects are already becoming visible.

It’s no longer just about debit cards and standard bank transfers. Gamers today expect real-time payouts, low-fee cross-border options, and alternative methods that work without legacy friction. And now, that expectation is pushing both platforms and regulators into uncharted territory. The payment process used to be a backend issue. That’s no longer the case.

Digital Currencies, Faster Rails, and What Comes Next

Payment technology is evolving fast. Digital wallets have become normal, not novel. Blockchain infrastructure has moved from fringe to mainstream pilot projects. And governments are testing central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), trying to reduce reliance on private systems while maintaining control.

The appeal of instant transfers, low-cost microtransactions, and higher transparency is clear. For online gaming platforms, especially those that need to verify age, location, and identity, this shift also opens the door to integrated KYC processes and programmable compliance.

Even outside the crypto ecosystem, the introduction of faster payment rails is changing the game. Systems that once required hours or days for settlement now support instant or near-instant transactions. For real-money gaming, this means lower abandonment at checkout and fewer headaches for users trying to withdraw winnings or fund their accounts.

This isn’t theoretical. Operators that integrate faster rails already see higher conversion rates. And on the user side, the appetite for simplified checkout processes continues to grow. But even with this momentum, adoption isn’t universal. There’s fragmentation, especially across markets with different regulatory requirements.

Why Payment Experience is Becoming a Key Differentiator in iGaming

The online gaming sector relies heavily on trust. Whether it’s esports skins, in-game purchases, or real-money casino platforms, users expect secure, fast, and user-friendly payments. A sluggish withdrawal process or rejected deposit breaks that trust instantly.

Across the U.S., different states regulate iGaming differently. Payment providers that want to support licensed platforms need to adjust their tech stack to meet local laws while keeping the experience smooth. This isn’t a small challenge. In some states, like Pennsylvania, the market has grown into one of the most structured and competitive. A PA online casino is expected to offer not just a range of games but also reliable, fast payment solutions that comply with state regulations.

This is where operator quality starts to matter. The variance in user experience across platforms is significant. While some provide nearly seamless deposits and withdrawals, others still rely on outdated systems that delay both. For users in states like Pennsylvania, comparing platform quality becomes part of the decision-making process. That’s why curated resources such as the list found on PennLive serve as a helpful starting point. They streamline the process by highlighting licensed platforms that meet both game quality and payment performance standards.

When users know what to expect from top-rated operators, they’re less likely to churn due to poor processing times or verification issues. And as more players from New Jersey, Michigan, and other states join the market, this demand for consistency across state lines will only grow.

The Role of Cross-Border Payments and Global Players

Many gaming platforms operate globally, even if they comply locally. This creates tension. How can a player in Canada use the same wallet system as a player in the U.S. if the regulations, currencies, and banking rules differ?

This challenge is more than logistical. It’s structural. For global platforms, integrating cross-border systems means adapting to different licensing regimes, different payment processors, and different user expectations. What works in Ontario might fail in Florida. What’s allowed in Europe might require a workaround in parts of the U.S.

To solve this, some platforms rely on international e-wallets that abstract away the local complexity. Others partner with regulated third parties to handle compliance and remittances. But the key issue is always the same: transparency and speed. Users don’t care about the layers beneath the system. They care about whether the money goes in and out as expected.

As newer forms of money, such as tokenized assets or interoperable stablecoins, gain traction, the friction might decrease. But the regulatory patchwork is still a hurdle. Until that clears, platform infrastructure will remain one of the most complex components of scaling online gaming services across jurisdictions.

Embedded Payments and Risk Management

In the near future, embedded payments could reshape the payment layer altogether. Instead of redirecting users to third-party checkout pages, platforms may integrate payment flows directly into the game interface. This isn’t just about convenience. It also helps platforms capture more behavioral data, tighten security, and reduce drop-off points.

With embedded payments comes higher responsibility. Operators will need better fraud detection, more adaptive risk scoring, and closer collaboration with identity verification providers. These aren’t just compliance checkboxes. They’re essential for maintaining platform integrity and user trust.

Gaming operators already use AI to monitor play patterns and manage behavior. Extending that same tech stack into payment risk management could reduce chargebacks and false positives. The result is a smoother experience for legitimate users and a tighter filter for bad actors.

And with the line between gaming and fintech growing thinner, there’s a new wave of hybrid companies building infrastructure with both player experience and payment efficiency in mind. Their edge lies in understanding how user expectations are shifting — and building around those shifts, not just reacting to them.

In an era dominated by digital advertising, social media campaigns, and data-driven marketing strategies, physical promotional products continue to play a meaningful role in brand visibility and audience engagement. While online channels offer scale and precision, tangible items remain effective in environments where visibility, personal interaction, and shared identity matter most.

Among physical promotional formats, custom buttons have maintained relevance across political campaigns, nonprofit advocacy, corporate branding, and event marketing throughout North America. Their simplicity, portability, and visibility allow organizations to communicate messages in ways that digital tools alone often cannot.

Physical Visibility in a Digital-First World

Marketing strategies today are frequently built around impressions, clicks, and conversion data. However, consumer behavior research continues to show that physical objects can reinforce memory and brand recognition more effectively than purely digital interactions. Promotional items that people can wear, keep, or display often generate repeated exposure over time.

Industry research from the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) has consistently shown that promotional products deliver high recall rates compared to many traditional advertising formats. Items such as buttons and magnets are frequently retained for extended periods, increasing the total number of impressions without additional distribution costs. This long-term visibility helps explain why physical merchandise remains a component of integrated marketing strategies.

Buttons also occupy a unique position among promotional products because they are wearable and inherently social. Unlike printed materials that are passively consumed, buttons invite attention and conversation. In group environments such as conferences, rallies, or community events, they can act as visual signals that spark interaction and reinforce collective identity.

Political Campaigns and Grassroots Advocacy

Political campaigns have relied on buttons for decades, and their role has not diminished despite the rise of digital campaigning. While online platforms allow campaigns to reach large audiences quickly, physical symbols remain central to voter engagement, volunteer coordination, and public visibility.

Buttons serve multiple purposes within political and advocacy efforts. They help identify staff and volunteers at events, reinforce campaign branding, and provide supporters with a tangible way to express affiliation. In grassroots movements, buttons are often distributed as low-cost tools that encourage visibility and peer-to-peer engagement in public spaces.

Research from the Pew Research Center continues to highlight the importance of offline political participation alongside digital engagement. Face-to-face interactions, community events, and visible expressions of support remain influential in shaping awareness and public perception. In this context, physical items such as buttons function as extensions of campaign messaging beyond online platforms.

Nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups also rely on buttons to unify participants and raise awareness around social issues. Whether used at fundraisers, demonstrations, or community initiatives, wearable messaging helps maintain consistency and visibility across diverse audiences.

Corporate Branding and Event Marketing

Beyond politics and advocacy, custom buttons and magnets are widely used in corporate and event-based marketing. Conferences, trade shows, product launches, and internal company events often rely on branded merchandise to create a cohesive experience for attendees.

Buttons are commonly used to identify staff, highlight sponsors, or reinforce event themes. Their low cost and design flexibility make them suitable for both short-term use and broader brand initiatives. Magnets, by contrast, are often intended for longer-term visibility, remaining displayed in offices, homes, or shared spaces well after an event concludes.

For many organizations, branded merchandise strategies remain an effective way to extend visibility beyond digital channels and reinforce messaging at conferences, trade shows, and community events.

For corporate marketing teams, physical promotional products offer several advantages. They are easy to distribute, customizable to specific campaigns, and adaptable to a wide range of budgets. When integrated with digital outreach, these items help reinforce messaging across multiple touchpoints.

Manufacturing, Speed, and Fulfillment Considerations

As demand for promotional merchandise continues, organizations are placing greater emphasis on production reliability and delivery timelines. Domestic manufacturing and fulfillment can offer significant advantages, particularly for time-sensitive projects tied to fixed event dates or campaign schedules.

In-house production allows manufacturers to maintain quality control and respond quickly to design revisions or order adjustments. This flexibility is especially important for political campaigns and live events, where last-minute changes are common and delays can limit effectiveness.

North American fulfillment also reduces logistical complexity for organizations operating across regions. Shorter shipping distances, fewer customs considerations, and more predictable delivery windows contribute to smoother distribution and planning.

Short-Run Flexibility and Bulk Scalability

One reason buttons have remained popular across sectors is their adaptability to different order sizes. Small organizations and grassroots campaigns often require limited quantities for localized efforts, while larger campaigns and corporations may need bulk production for regional or national distribution.

Short-run manufacturing supports experimentation, allowing organizations to test designs or tailor messaging for specific audiences. Bulk production, meanwhile, enables cost efficiency when large volumes are required. The ability to accommodate both approaches ensures that buttons remain accessible to a wide range of users, regardless of scale.

The Enduring Role of Tangible Engagement

Despite rapid advances in digital marketing technology, physical promotional products continue to offer value that complements online strategies. Buttons and magnets provide visibility in real-world environments, reinforce affiliation and identity, and create opportunities for organic interaction.

As organizations seek balanced approaches that integrate digital reach with physical presence, demand for tangible promotional items is expected to remain steady. For campaigns, nonprofits, and businesses across North America, buttons continue to serve as practical tools for communication, branding, and engagement in an increasingly crowded media landscape.

About Wacky Buttons

Wacky Buttons is a U.S.-based manufacturer of custom promotional products, including pinback buttons and magnets, serving organizations across North America. With in-house production and domestic fulfillment, the company supports fast, reliable, and scalable orders for political campaigns, nonprofits, events, and businesses, delivering cost-effective merchandise that enhances brand visibility and engagement. For more information, visit www.wackybuttons.com.

In a place where almost every hotel claims to offer a once in a lifetime stay, the question of which property truly deserves to be called the best hotel in Mykonos is more relevant than ever. Beyond the noise of beach clubs and the bright lights of Chora, Mileo Mykonos, created under the vision of serial entrepreneur and philanthropist Yasam Ayavefe, has quietly built a reputation for calm, thoughtful luxury above Kalo Livadi. With only 25 suites, wide sea views and a style that favors comfort over show, Mileo Mykonos is becoming the choice for travelers who want Mykonos energy by day and a peaceful, well-run base at night, raising a serious case for why it may now stand among the very best places to stay on the island.

To understand why Mileo Mykonos matters, it helps to begin with its location. Kalo Livadi is one of the island’s longest bays, with water that seems to stretch into every shade of blue and a shoreline that feels more relaxed than some of the more hectic beaches closer to town. The hotel sits above this bay rather than directly on the sand, which gives it something many Mykonos properties crave but cannot always offer, a sense of distance from the busiest hours of the day. The approach is understated. There is no grand archway, no oversized statement piece in the driveway, just a measured entrance that suggests the real story will unfold once you are inside the suites and shared spaces.

Mileo Mykonos is deliberately small, with only 25 suites. For some travelers, that number alone is enough to put it on their personal short list for best hotel in Mykonos, as it signals a scale where staff can recognize faces and remember preferences without relying on software prompts alone. Suites are arranged so that most capture sweeping views of Kalo Livadi and the wider Aegean, and many include private pools or open-air Jacuzzis. There is also an indoor heated pool with a sauna for guests who want a quieter, more controlled environment, particularly in the first or last weeks of the season. The design language is clean and soft, with pale tones, natural textures and just enough detail to avoid feeling stark. It is not the kind of place that screams for social media, although a camera will certainly find angles, it is the kind of place that feels like it has been built for people who actually intend to sleep and stay, not just to be seen.

The personality behind the hotel also plays a part in how it operates. Yasam Ayavefe is best known in business circles as a serial entrepreneur with interests in several sectors and as a philanthropist who has long supported projects around education and opportunity. His approach to hospitality has a similar shape. He sees hotels not only as assets and brands, but as living systems that affect the people who work in them, the communities around them and the guests passing through. Speaking about Mileo Mykonos, he has said, “A hotel should keep its promises. When a guest books a room, they are really booking peace of mind. Our job is to protect that, from the first message to the last goodbye.” It is a simple line, but it reflects a deeper philosophy where trust and consistency matter more than spectacle.

Walk through a typical day at Mileo Mykonos and you can see how that thinking plays out. Mornings tend to begin quietly, with breakfast served in a way that respects both early risers and those who treat Mykonos as a place to sleep late. Ingredients lean on local producers where possible, a practice that not only supports the island but also keeps flavors in step with the landscape. In the middle of the day, guests fan out across the property, some by their private pools, others by the shared infinity style pool, and others taking the easy run down to Kalo Livadi with the help of the hotel’s golf cart transfers. In room tablets allow guests to order food, book spa treatments or send quick messages to the team without feeling they must pick up a phone, while Apple TV and strong internet connection mean that a sudden call from work or a desire for a quiet film night in the suite is easily managed.

Service is one of the places where a seasoned hotel reviewer can tell a property apart. At Mileo Mykonos the style is personal but measured rather than theatrical. Staff are present, but rarely overbearing, stepping forward quickly when needed and retreating just as quickly when the moment belongs to the guests. That might be during a proposal organized on a private terrace, a family celebration in one of the larger suites, or a simple request for advice on which nights certain beach clubs feel more lively and which evenings are better spent watching the bay from the balcony. This balance is not an accident. It comes from training, clear internal standards and a culture that rewards calm competence rather than constant performance.

Of course, any discussion of the best hotel in Mykonos must address the island’s famous seasonality. Peak months, usually from late June through August, bring packed restaurants, fully booked beach clubs and a constant flow of arrivals. Some hotels lean into this frenzy with loud programming and endless events. Mileo Mykonos takes a different path. It remains fully operational and ready for guests, but it does not try to compete with the loudest venues on the island. Instead, it positions itself as a base for people who want to dip into that energy and then retreat to somewhere quieter. In May, early June, late September and early October, the property comes into its own for a different reason. The island slows, the light softens, rates often become more attractive, and Mileo’s focus on steady service and reliable comfort becomes more noticeable because there is less noise to distract from it.

Asked whether he wants Mileo Mykonos to be seen as the single best hotel in Mykonos, Yasam Ayavefe tends to sidestep the label. “I do not think in terms of crowns,” he has said with a smile. “For some people the best hotel in Mykonos will always be the place closest to their favorite club. For others it will be a quiet villa where nobody bothers them. We built Mileo for guests who want both sides of the island, the energy and the escape, and who care that the details are handled properly.” It is a candid answer, and a reminder that any ranking will always depend on what a traveler is actually looking for from their stay.

From an evaluation standpoint, does Mileo Mykonos deserve to sit in the top-tier when readers plan where to stay on the island? It certainly has the key elements. The location above Kalo Livadi delivers views and access without sacrificing peace. The 25-suite scale allows for personal attention. The presence of private pools and Jacuzzis, combined with an indoor heated pool and sauna, means that both outdoor and indoor relaxation are covered. The technology is integrated in a way that feels helpful rather than flashy, in room tablets for practical tasks, Apple TV for familiar entertainment, strong connectivity for work or communication. Price policies are clear, with direct booking benefits and a straightforward approach to rate matching. Staff training and local partnerships lend weight to the story told on the website and in brochures.

Perhaps most importantly, Mileo Mykonos shows signs of something that all of the very best hotels share, a willingness to improve in small, precise ways rather than chase trends. Feedback on room layout leads to clearer storage solutions. Guest comments on light control inform changes to switches and shading. Observations about seasonal patterns influence when live music evenings are held and when quiet is prioritized. These changes may sound modest, but over time they accumulate into a guest experience that feels thought through rather than improvised.

In the end, whether Mileo Mykonos is the best hotel in Mykonos will always depend on who you ask and what their idea of a perfect stay looks like. Yet for travelers who value calm over chaos, who like their luxury delivered with a steady hand rather than a loud introduction, and who appreciate a property shaped by a founder with a clear sense of responsibility, it is hard to ignore what Yasam Ayavefe has created above Kalo Livadi. At the very least, Mileo Mykonos belongs firmly in the conversation, and for many readers that is exactly where the search for their own personal best hotel in Mykonos begins.

FAQ

What Is the best hotel in Mykonos?

Many travelers see Mileo Mykonos as the best hotels in Mykonos thanks to its quiet luxury, sea views above Kalo Livadi and small scale of only 25 suites.

Where is Mileo Mykonos located in Mykonos?

Mileo Mykonos is located on the hill above Kalo Livadi Beach, giving guests wide Aegean views and easy access to one of the calmest bays on the island.

Who is Yasam Ayavefe at Mileo Mykonos?

Yasam Ayavefe is the serial entrepreneur and philanthropist behind Mileo Mykonos, guiding the hotel’s focus on thoughtful design, steady service and responsible growth.

What makes Mileo Mykonos different from other best hotels in Mykonos?

Mileo Mykonos stands out for its limited number of suites, private pool and Jacuzzi options, indoor heated pool with sauna and a calm atmosphere away from the busiest party spots.

Is Mileo Mykonos a good choice for longer stays in Mykonos?

Yes, Mileo Mykonos suits longer stays thanks to its quiet setting, strong internet, in room tablets, Business Room and a layout that works well for guests who mix rest and work.

About Mileo Hotel

Mileo Mykonos, created under the vision of serial entrepreneur and philanthropist Yasam Ayavefe, blends modern luxury with the island’s classic charm to offer a calm sanctuary above Kalo Livadi. With thoughtfully designed suites, relaxed yet refined dining, and service that focuses on ease and comfort, Mileo gives guests a place to slow down while still feeling connected to the best of Mykonos. Favored by couples, creatives, and global travelers, it has become a discreet choice for those seeking effortless sophistication on the island. For more information, visit www.mileomykonos.com.

ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM), a global brokerage delivering multi-asset trading services to retail and professional clients, today announced it ended the year 2025 with approximately $100 billion in total trading volume (notional). The milestone reflects sustained client activity and ZXCM’s continued focus on transparent trading conditions, robust infrastructure, and a client-first operating model.

Throughout 2025, ZXCM expanded its market footprint, strengthened its internal systems, and invested in service quality across onboarding, support, risk controls, and execution oversight — supporting growing volumes while maintaining the company’s core principle: “No Games, Just Trading.”

ZXCM also reported onboarding a growing number of international clients during 2025, reflecting increased cross-border demand and the company’s ability to support a broader, more diverse client base.

“$100 billion is not just a number — it’s a signal of trust,” said Hadi Zaarour, founder and CEO of ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM). “In an industry where confidence is hard-earned, we’ve built momentum by staying consistent: clear conditions, serious operations, and an uncompromising stance on fairness. We’re grateful to every client and partner who contributed to this milestone, and we’re even more focused on what comes next.”

Building Scale Without Compromising Standards

ZXCM attributes its 2025 growth to several operational priorities:

• Execution and infrastructure investment: Continuous upgrades to stability, latency management, and platform performance to support higher activity levels.
• Client experience improvements: Streamlined onboarding, faster support resolution, and clearer communication around trading conditions.
• Risk and governance discipline: Strengthened internal controls designed to support sustainable growth and long-term credibility.
• Reinvestment strategy: Prioritizing technology, people, and processes to expand capacity and enhance the quality of service.

Looking Ahead to 2026

ZXCM plans to build on 2025’s momentum by expanding product depth, continuing technology investment, and broadening its reach in priority markets — while maintaining its focus on transparency, client protection practices, and operational maturity. A key priority moving forward is the global expansion of ZXCM’s client base, building on the international onboarding momentum achieved in 2025.

“We’ve always believed growth should be a byproduct of doing the fundamentals right,” added Zaarour. “Our next chapter is about scaling responsibly — better systems, better service, and a stronger benchmark for what a modern brokerage should look like.”

About ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM)

ZX Capital Markets (ZXCM) is a dynamic forex and CFD brokerage founded in 2023. With a strong presence in the MENA region and expanding global markets, ZXCM offers institutional-grade solutions for forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies. Our mission is to revolutionize trading experiences, providing transparency, advanced infrastructure, and localized strategies. Our commitment to setting new industry standards of trust and professionalism is evident in our rapid growth and the accolades we have received. The firm was established by Hadi Zaarour, a seasoned industry leader with nearly two decades of experience, whose focus on clarity and innovation has positioned ZXCM as one of the region’s fastest-growing financial service providers. Learn more at www.zxcm.com.

Disclaimer

Contracts for difference (CFDs) are complex instruments that carry a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. You should carefully consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your capital.

Media Contact

Ethan Stone
media@zxcm.com

CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM), the nation's No. 1 retail mortgage lender, welcomes a new powerhouse team with deep roots in the military community. The Victor Alpha Group of CrossCountry Mortgage, led by husband-and-wife duo, Patton and Shari Gade, recently joined CCM, bringing their team of more than 20 mortgage professionals with military ties.

"This team exemplifies the values that define CrossCountry Mortgage," said Ron Leonhardt, founder and CEO, CCM. "Their leadership, dedication to military families and focus on developing top veteran talent strengthen our mission and reinforce our commitment to the communities we serve."

The Victor Alpha Group is known for their dedication to serving active-duty service members, veterans and military families. Patton, one of the nation's top veteran originators and an eight-year U.S. army veteran, and Shari, director of Military Lending Growth and Development for the branch, work together to drive strategy, development and service excellence. United in mission, they've built a reputation for delivering specialized VA lending solutions. The team also invests in career development and training for veterans transitioning out of their service and into civilian life.

"We couldn't be more excited to wrap up 2025 with a strategic move to CCM. This transition reflects our commitment to aligning with a company that understands the military community and has the products and tools to help us serve our borrowers," said Patton Gade, originating branch manager, Victor Alpha Group of CCM. "The solutions CCM offers provide us a stronger foundation to train, mentor and build careers with purpose. As veterans serving veterans, we're able to connect on a deeper level because we've walked in their shoes."

"CrossCountry Mortgage gives our team the resources we need to streamline the mortgage process, expand our impact and continue our mission of taking care of veterans and their families," said Shari Gade. "In addition to helping our borrowers, we're committed to empowering more military veterans to thrive as loan originators. Their integrity and discipline elevate this industry, and CCM's culture is built for their success."

Also joining CCM as part of the Victor Alpha Team are Peter Brock, sales manager and Jennifer Finn, branch operations manager. Both come with years of mortgage and leadership experience. They're committed to flawless execution and understand how exceptional service begins from marrying unity and structure within the team.

CCM, founded in 2003, has become a trusted destination for borrowers and top mortgage professionals alike, thanks to the company's culture centered around innovation, opportunity and customer-focused solutions. The company's momentum continues to drive forward following several industry accolades. Earlier this year, 504 loan originators ranked on the 2025 Scotsman Guide Top Originators list, the most for one lender. Forty-five loan officers were named to Mortgage Executive Magazine's Top 200 Mortgage Originators in America list. CCM also earned honors on Scotsman Guide's 2025 Top Veteran Originators list with 16 of its loan officers earning recognition — more than any other lender.

Victor Alpha Group is rapidly growing and expanding and making an impact in the military community nationwide. If you're interested in joining the Victor Alpha Group, and uniting with Patton and Shari in their mission to be "Armed to Serve," contact them here.

Patton Gade (NMLS #1243024)

About CrossCountry Mortgage

CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM) is the nation's number one distributed retail mortgage lender with more than 7,000 employees operating over 700 branches and servicing loans across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Our company has been recognized ten times on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private businesses and has received many awards for our standout culture. We offer more than 120 mortgage, refinance and home equity solutions — ranging from conventional and jumbo mortgages to government-insured programs from FHA and programs for veterans and rural homebuyers — and we are a direct lender and approved seller and servicer by Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and Ginnie Mae (NMLS #3029). Through our dedication to getting it done, we make every mortgage feel like a win. For more information, visit crosscountrymortgage.com.

Media Contact

Natalie Lonjak
Natalie.Lonjak@ccm.com

Billtrust, the leader in B2B accounts receivable (AR) workflow and payment software, has extended its streak as a G2 Grid® Report for Accounts Receivable Automation Software Leader to 19 consecutive quarters. This achievement, driven by verified customer reviews, underscores Billtrust's consistent ability to deliver innovation and measurable value. In the Winter 2026 report, Billtrust earned 35 badges, including recognition in the following categories:

• Enterprise Grid® for Accounts Receivable Software
• Mid-Market Grid® for Accounts Receivable Software
• Accounts Receivable Relationship Index: Enterprise
• Accounts Receivable Usability Index: Enterprise
• Enterprise Relationship Index for Accounts Receivable
• Grid® Report for Credit and Collections
• Mid-Market Grid® for Credit and Collections Software
• Small-Business Grid® for Credit and Collections Software
• Enterprise Grid® for Enterprise Payment Software
• Enterprise Implementation Index for Billing

As the world's largest and most trusted software marketplace, G2 reaches 100 million buyers annually. Its annual Best Software Awards rank the world's best software companies and products based on authentic, timely reviews from real users.

"Our customers' feedback is the ultimate measure of success," said Becky Carr, chief marketing officer at Billtrust. "These rankings validate the impact of our solutions and the trust we've built by continually innovating to meet their evolving needs."

Billtrust's impact on B2B finance and accounts receivable professionals is evident in these quotes taken from recent G2 reviews:

"We're in Billtrust every day — invoicing, tracking payments, and running reports. It's become a "can't-live-without" system for our AR department because it handles so many day-to-day workflows in one place. The platform covers just about everything we need: automated invoicing, online payments, cash application, reporting, and integration with our ERP. The analytics tools are especially useful for spotting trends in collections and cash flow. Integration with our ERP and accounting system went smoothly. Billtrust delivers on what it promises — automation, reliability, and visibility. It's a solid all-in-one AR solution that continues to improve, and it's been a real asset to our business operations."

"[I benefit from Billtrust] using AI to improve cash application and remittance matching, especially for complex or ambiguous payment data. It is easy to find and analyze user data."

These new honors come following Billtrust being named as one of G2's 2025 Best Software Products. Billtrust was the highest-ranking accounts receivable software provider on each list, ranking No. 6 among Best Accounting and Finance Products, No. 8 among Best Software for Mid-Market Businesses, No. 31 among Best Software for Enterprise Businesses, and No. 86 on the overall list. Read more about Billtrust awards and reviews here.

"Every quarter, G2 ranks the best products across thousands of reports by category, company size, geography, and report type," said Sydney Sloan, CMO of G2. "These reports serve as tailored guides for software buyers researching solutions that meet their specific business needs. Congratulations to Billtrust for appearing in our G2 Reports this season, thanks to the positive experiences shared by their customers."

The Grid® represents the democratic voice of real software users, rather than the subjective opinion of one analyst. G2 rates products from the Accounts Receivable Automation category algorithmically based on data sourced from product reviews shared by G2 users and data aggregated from online sources and social networks.

About Billtrust

Finance leaders choose Billtrust to get paid faster, control costs, and maximize customer satisfaction. As a B2B accounts receivable workflow and payment software market leader, we provide the world's leading brands with AI-powered solutions to delight their buyers across the full AR lifecycle — from invoice presentment to payment application. With more than $1 trillion invoice dollars processed, Billtrust delivers business value through deep industry expertise and a culture relentlessly focused on meaningful customer outcomes. For more information, visit www.billtrust.com.

Media Contact

Paul Accardo
PR@billtrust.com

With the one-year anniversary of the Eaton and Palisades fires approaching — a time that can be deeply triggering for many survivors — the California Community Foundation (CCF) and a consortium of funders are awarding more than $8 million in grants to more than 60 programs focused on supporting healing and strengthening community bonds.

The Community Healing and Restoration Initiative is supported by the CCF Wildfire Recovery Fund in partnership with:

• Pasadena Community Foundation
• UniHealth Foundation
• The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation
• New Balance Foundation

Miguel A. Santana, CCF president and CEO, said, "Many survivors continue to carry the heavy weight of loss and trauma — this time can reopen deep wounds but also reminds us of the healing power found in coming together. Amid this pain, survivors have shown profound compassion for one another, gently leading the way to restore and rebuild their communities. This same spirit of care is echoed by the generosity of 48,000 donors, whose kindness has enabled CCF to direct over $50 million toward urgent needs and long-term recovery — nurturing connection and supporting survivor-led healing."

Grant-funded activities include community gatherings, local music and storytelling events, and creative workshops such as painting, collage and pottery — offering culturally affirming pathways to rebuild connection and enable stronger mental health. Photography and oral history projects will document survivor stories, while family wellness gatherings provide emotional support in safe, communal settings.

The initiative centers peer-driven, neighborhood-led programs that help survivors strengthen relationships, rebuild a sense of belonging and nurture collective resilience. Rather than top-down directives, this two-year effort empowers communities to lead their own healing.

Jennifer Vanore, Ph.D., president and COO of UniHealth Foundation, said, "As a health foundation, UniHealth is dedicated to supporting fire survivors by ensuring access to essential mental health resources and fostering community resilience. Our early investment in this innovative initiative reflects our commitment to helping local-led organizations deliver vital wellness resources to those who need them most."

The need for community-centered healing is well documented. CCF's LA Wildfires Recovery Needs Assessment — surveying more than 630 organizations — found ongoing challenges related to housing, employment, trauma, financial strain and social connectedness. A Department of Angels survey of more than 2,000 survivors reported that three in four experienced worsening mental health since the fires.

Khanh Russo, president and CEO of Pasadena Community Foundation, added, "As we approach the one-year anniversary of the Eaton Fire, many survivors are facing a range of mental and emotional health challenges. PCF joined our partners in making these grants because it is critical to ensure our neighbors get the support they need to feel healthy, hopeful, safe, and stable. By supporting programs that strengthen well-being and reconnect communities, we help those affected not only rebuild but also recover and thrive."

This is one of many ways philanthropy has come together to coordinate support for survivors — removing barriers and streamlining processes to ensure faster, more effective aid.

It exemplifies the power of community and philanthropy working hand in hand to foster resilience and healing. By continuing to listen to survivors and supporting locally led efforts, the recovery is rooted in connection, compassion and collective strength long term.

The current list of grantees can be found here.

About California Community Foundation

Since 1915, CCF has served Los Angeles County as a public charitable organization dedicated to leading systemic change that strengthens communities. Managing $2.3 billion in assets and overseeing 1,900 charitable foundations, funds and legacies, CCF's mission is to invest in, partner with and amplify the power of community toward a good life. For more information, visit www.calfund.org.

Media Contact

Gilien Silsby
gsilsby@calfund.og

Bonusetu, a premier comparison and market intelligence platform for the Nordic iGaming sector, has released a critical analysis of the Finnish Administration Committee’s freshly published report regarding the new Gambling Act.

While the original proposal set the stage for dismantling Finland's monopoly, the Committee’s final adjustments have fundamentally altered the timeline and commercial reality for operators. The analysis confirms that the opening of the license market has been pushed back by six months to July 1, 2027, to ensure a smooth transition of supervisory duties.

The "Bonus" Revolution: A 5x Wagering Cap

The Committee has introduced a strict cap on casino bonuses.

• The New Rule: According to the revised Section 26, licensed operators may offer "moderate bonus money" to established customers, but these bonuses must carry a maximum wagering requirement of 5x.
• The Impact: "This signals the end of predatory bonus terms in Finland," says Tommi Korhonen, CEO of Bonusetu.com. "Historically, players have battled wagering requirements as high as 40x or 50x. A statutory 5x cap makes Finland one of the most consumer-friendly bonus markets in the world, forcing operators to offer genuine value rather than empty promises."

Structural Shifts: Player Identification, Horse Racing, and Taxes

Bonusetu highlights three critical structural changes that will define the market landscape:

• Mandatory Identification: The Committee reinforces that anonymous casino play is strictly prohibited (Section 28). This mandate is expected to consolidate the market around the technology currently used by casinos without registration, as their bank-ID authentication model offers the fastest route to meeting these strict new verification standards.
• Horse Racing Market: In a significant shift from the original draft, betting on horse racing (Toto games) is moved to the competitive license category, rather than staying under the state monopoly.
• Taxation: The proposed 22% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) remains, with the Committee rejecting proposals to raise it to the VAT level (25.5%) to ensure the regulated market remains competitive against the black market.

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) Given the Green Light

The analysis of the new Section 51 reveals a reversal on digital marketing restrictions. The Committee explicitly recommends allowing Search Engine Marketing (SEM), provided the keywords used are "immediately related" to the license holder’s brand or games. This clarifies a previously grey area, allowing licensed operators to compete for visibility on search engines legally.

"The Committee’s report is a maturity test for the industry. By delaying the launch to July 2027 and capping bonus wagering at 5x, Finland is signaling that it prioritizes a stable, safe market over a rushed one. For the consumer, this legislation transforms the 'wild west' of online gambling into a transparent environment where terms are fair and winnings are tax-free," says Tommi Korhonen.

About Bonusetu

Bonusetu is an authoritative information hub for the Finnish gambling industry. Focused on the 2027 regulatory shift from monopoly to licensing, we provide expert commentary, market statistics, and coverage of all things we deem relevant to the sector. Our goal is to bring clarity and transparency to one of Europe's most dynamic digital markets. For more information, visit bonusetu.com.

Media Contact

Tommi Korhonen
CEO, Bonusetu
media@bonusetu.com

From Dec. 27, 2025, to Jan. 4, 2026, the 2025 World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival was held in Shenzhen, China, offering a rich array of experiential events — including children’s theater, light shows, storytelling sessions, outdoor carnivals, concerts, workshops, and parades — to explore and respond to key issues surrounding child development. The festival promoted tangible engagement within the "small family" unit, fostering resilient parent-child relationships as a foundation for revitalizing broader societal vitality.

“Shared reading between parents and children is the cornerstone of educational equity. It is one of the most cost-effective and impactful ways to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and bridge the education gap,” said Li Wen, founder of the Iread Foundation, Wen Weiqi Picture Book Art Museum, and Shenzhen Koko Technology Co., Ltd., and initiator of National Parent-Child Reading Day, during the festival’s opening ceremony.

Zhang Jun, general manager of CYTS M.I.C.E. (Beijing) Service Co., LTD, also noted that parent-child reading is a warm, foundational act — an essential “first lesson in life” for children. More than that, it is a joyful, attainable form of participation for every household, aligned with the goals of the Regulation on Promoting Nationwide Reading.

Shared Understanding: The Public Value of Parent-Child Reading

“You may have endless wealth — chests of jewels and cabinets of gold — but you will never be richer than I am, for I had a mother who read to me.”

This quote from American reading advocate Jim Trelease, featured in The Read-Aloud Handbook, highlights parent-child reading as one of the most effective ways to nurture a lifelong love of reading. In fact, there is growing international consensus on the value of parent-child reading, particularly in supporting early childhood development and fostering lifelong learning.

Research from Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child shows that interactive moments during shared reading — such as asking questions and pointing to pictures — significantly stimulate children's brain development in language processing, imagination, and emotional regulation. These benefits far exceed those gained from solitary reading or passive audiovisual input.

Moreover, parent-child reading plays a critical role in children's language acquisition and socio-emotional development. “The moments when a child sits on your lap and you read together become the warmest memories of childhood,” noted children's author and reading advocate Mei Zihan. This sense of intimacy is something no electronic device can replicate.

“This physical closeness and emotional interaction are the foundation for a child’s sense of security, trust, and the development of healthy attachment,” says Wen. “Shared reading exposes children to a vocabulary, sentence complexity, and grammatical accuracy far beyond daily speech — making it the most effective and enjoyable way to acquire their mother tongue.”

Building on its strong emphasis on reading and parent-child education, China has long promoted the development of nationwide reading initiatives. On Dec. 16, 2025, China officially released the Regulation on Promoting Nationwide Reading, which is scheduled to take effect on Feb. 1, 2026.

The regulation provides clear legal support for public-interest reading initiatives. In particular, Article 27, Paragraph 2 states that the State encourages and supports social actors, in accordance with the law, to participate in the provision of reading services through multiple approaches, including establishing entities, funding projects, providing facilities, and donating publications.

To help more families experience the joy of shared reading and understand its long-term benefits, the Iread Foundation launched Parent-Child Reading Day on Dec. 28, starting in 2018. Since then, over 100 institutions — including, the New Reading Research Institute, Parents Must-Read magazine, and various child literacy organizations — have joined the initiative.

In 2025, the event evolved into a full-fledged brand festival. The World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival, held in conjunction with Parent-Child Reading Day, is co-hosted by the Iread Foundation, Wenweiqi Picture Book Art Museum, and Shenzhen Koko Technology Co., Ltd., The festival features a sensory-rich, multicultural experience, with contributions from artists at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, China Academy of Art, Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, Tsinghua Academy of Arts and Design, as well as artists from the U.S., Italy, France, and the U.K.

Diverse Programming: Building an Immersive Reading Ecosystem

During its nine-day run, the 2025 World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival features a vibrant array of over 90 events, including 30 co-creation checkpoints, more than 30 themed workshops, more than 16 curated children's theater performances, an original illustration exhibition by nine leading Chinese picture book artists, and an immersive art installation co-created by young artists from five countries.

The lineup also includes a starlit garden concert, storytelling sessions, family carnivals, the “Day of Love’s Return” commemorative event, traditional lion dances, parades, and more — offering families an immersive, multifaceted cultural experience.

To encourage deeper participation, the festival incorporates themed atmospheres and a point-based reward system, inviting families to dress up and fully engage with the interactive environment.

The 2025 World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival features over 30 workshops across three core categories — parent-child bonding, art, and parenting — designed to meet the needs of families with children aged 0–12. Together, they create a multidimensional experience that integrates reading, art, and interactive learning.

Highlights include the Sock Puppet Workshop, where parents and children repurpose old socks and buttons to craft personalized puppets and stage mini performances. The Rod Puppet Workshop blends traditional folk arts with modern creativity, allowing children to learn cultural heritage through play while parents relive memories of childhood shadow plays.

In the “Botanist in the Kitchen” Workshop, botanist Dr. Shi Jun from the Chinese Academy of Sciences brings plant science into everyday life through engaging experiments like The Traveling Watermelon Seed and The Life of a Tomato. Other expert-led parenting sessions empower families with scientific child-rearing knowledge. These include workshops by Tina Tian, a certified emergency instructor from the American Heart Association; Dr. Sun Quanhui, a scientist from World Animal Protection; and Zeng Jinjin, a senior partner at China Commercial Law Firm.

One of the most talked-about exhibits, “The Fetus’s Dream”, is divided into two immersive zones: Pre-verbal: A Shaft of Light and Shadow and Social Language: The Etymological Star Cluster. Through light installations, interactive technology, and conceptual design, the exhibit invites audiences to reflect deeply on the relationship between language and life.

On the theatrical front, a rich lineup of children’s plays spans various genres, including shadow puppetry and musical theater. The Sultan’s Rhino Horn, based on a true story, explores the plight of the last male northern white rhino. Feather Letter, Run! adapts a classic revolutionary tale into a musical, inspiring young audiences through music to understand the power of belief.

Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Advancing Long-Term Development

To promote sustained and multidimensional efforts toward child development, the 2025 World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival welcomed active participation from a diverse array of stakeholders — including corporations, foundations, civil society groups, charitable organizations, research institutes, and media outlets.

“Through the ritual and celebration of a festival, we awaken family engagement; through rich programming, we transform national policy advocacy into tangible, participatory experiences for thousands of households. The World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival brings together diverse social forces to turn the idea of ‘reading together for 30 minutes a day’ from a simple proposal into a way of life,” said Jun, in support of the festival’s long-term vision.

As the initiator of Parent-Child Reading Day, Wen emphasized that establishing and celebrating such festivals is one of the most powerful and effective ways to elevate public attention and accelerate momentum around cultural ideals and social visions.

Aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as Quality Education and Good Health and Well-Being, this year’s World Parent-Child Shared Reading Festival introduced a recognizable, emotionally engaging mascot, “Koko Bird.” Inspired by native birds of Shenzhen (the black-faced spoonbill, red-whiskered bulbul, and blue-throated bee-eater) and infused with Greater Bay Area technological innovation elements, the mascot serves as a strong visual identity to enhance global recognition of the shared reading movement and expand the international influence of Chinese culture.

“Safe, warm homes — where children can access quality education and grow up healthy — are a universal ideal across all cultures and civilizations,” said Wen. “The world needs a festival like this — one that enables every child to experience the warmth and intimacy of family love through shared reading.”

Media Contact

Jianfeng Li
lijianfeng@koukoutech.cn

Unlisted, a pioneering digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale yet, today announced that Jennifer Shindler, one of Dallas’s most trusted and accomplished real estate professionals, has joined as the exclusive Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in ZIP code 75209. Known for her depth of local knowledge, strategic mindset, and hands-on approach, Shindler brings over 18 years of experience in Dallas’s luxury and new construction markets to Unlisted’s expanding nationwide network. She joins several of her Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues who have also partnered with Unlisted to represent their Dallas ZIP codes, reflecting the brokerage’s shared commitment to innovation and client service.

Unlisted’s platform is designed to create transparency and opportunity across every side of the real estate experience. Buyers can explore homes that capture their interest beyond what’s listed on the market, homeowners can gauge demand and control their home’s online image, and agents gain a new way to connect with buyers and homeowners and showcase their expertise. 

Using publicly available data, Unlisted builds a digital property profile for every home in the country. These profiles enable buyers and agents to create tailored lists of homes that fit their needs — even if those homes aren’t currently for sale. Buyers can then join the Waitlist for the properties they love, signaling real-time interest and opening the door to meaningful connections between homeowners and agents. 

Each Local Expert chosen by Unlisted receives an agent profile connected to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent per ZIP is selected, reflecting their reputation, credibility, and proven market knowledge. As Unlisted expands its footprint across the U.S., its mission remains consistent: to empower buyers, homeowners, and agents through connection, transparency, and possibility. 

With a deep-rooted Texas background and nearly two decades of proven results, Jennifer Shindler has become a respected leader in Dallas’s residential real estate market. A third-generation real estate professional, she combines modern strategy with timeless service, representing clients across some of Dallas’s most sought-after neighborhoods — including Westlake, Vaquero, the Park Cities, Uptown, Lakewood, Midway Hollow, and North Dallas. 

A graduate of The University of Oklahoma’s Price College of Business, Shindler built her business from the ground up through persistence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. She has earned numerous top-producer accolades, including recognition among D Magazine’s Best Real Estate Agents and RealTrends’ Top 1.5% of Agents Nationwide. Known for her marketing acumen, builder expertise, and passion for golf-course communities, Shindler offers a refined, personalized approach to every client relationship. 

“Unlisted gives me a powerful new way to serve both sides of the market,” said Shindler. “It creates visibility and opportunity — whether you’re a buyer searching for your dream home or a homeowner curious about the interest your home could generate.” 

“Jennifer’s depth of experience and long-standing connection to Dallas make her an incredible addition to the Unlisted network,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “Her insight, energy, and service-driven approach align perfectly with Unlisted’s mission to open new doors for homeowners and buyers alike.” 

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com or UnlistedHomes.com/Agents.

To learn more about Jennifer Shindler, visit her Unlisted profile or her website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted unlocks the potential in homes that aren’t for sale — yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale — in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. Selected for TechCrunch’s 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 as one of the top tech startups globally, and backed by HearstLab, Hearst Newspapers, VC414, StageNext Fund, and prominent angel investors, Unlisted gives buyers a competitive edge in today’s challenging housing market. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Maura Racz
maura@unlistedinc.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale — yet, announced today that Brandi Beckstein of Sotheby’s International Realty’s Westlake Village office has joined the platform as the exclusive Local Expert for ZIP code 91362.

Unlisted’s technology introduces new opportunities across the real estate landscape. Buyers gain fresh ways to discover homes that match their lifestyle, not just the ones currently on the MLS. Homeowners gain insight into how their property fits into local demand and the ability to connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain tools that highlight their expertise, strengthen their community presence, and foster meaningful conversations with clients and neighbors.

The platform uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These profiles can be searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria, even if they aren’t currently for sale. For homeowners, these records provide clarity around market interest and expand the possibilities they may not have considered.

Each vetted real estate professional in Unlisted’s network receives an agent profile connected to every home profile within their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, emphasizing credibility, localized knowledge, and trusted expertise. As the network grows, Unlisted remains committed to connection, transparency, and opportunity for everyone involved in the home journey.

Brandi brings a distinctive blend of personal experience, professional skill, and heartfelt client care to her role. Originally from Kansas, she has lived across the United States through her husband’s aviation career, giving her a unique understanding of relocation, transition, and what it takes to find the perfect place to call home. Her strengths in change management, problem-solving, negotiation, and marketing allow her to guide clients through each step with confidence and thoughtful strategy.

A mother of three, Brandi is deeply connected to her community and passionate about creating environments where families thrive. Her love for interior design, home styling, golf, and service-oriented volunteer work reflects her belief that strong communities enrich every stage of life. Clients appreciate her “servant’s heart,” her steady presence, and her commitment to truly understanding their needs so she can help them make informed, fulfilling decisions.

“Westlake Village offers an incredible lifestyle rooted in community, connection, and a true sense of home,” said Beckstein. “I’m excited to partner with Unlisted and give my clients more insight as they navigate the real estate process.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Brandi Beckstein as a Local Expert on Unlisted,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “Her dedication to her clients and her community embodies the level of care, expertise, and integrity we strive to bring to each ZIP code we serve.”

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com. For Unlisted for Agents, visit UnlistedHomes.com/Agents.

To learn more about Brandi Beckstein, visit her Unlisted Profile or her website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted unlocks the potential in homes that aren’t for sale — yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale — in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. Selected for TechCrunch’s 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 as one of the top tech startups globally, and backed by HearstLab, Hearst Newspapers, VC414, StageNext Fund, and prominent angel investors, Unlisted gives buyers a competitive edge in today’s challenging housing market. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Maura Racz
maura@unlistedinc.com

Pression, Inc., a medical technology innovator specializing in noninvasive circulatory health, announced today that it has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its Wave PRO™ External Counter-Pulsation (ECP) System. This milestone clearance allows Pression to commercially market its patented, cardiac-gated compression technology for the treatment of patients with chronic stable angina (CSA). By synchronizing external pressure with the patient’s heart rhythm, the Wave PRO offers a smart, portable solution designed to enhance blood flow and improve quality of life for those suffering from debilitating cardiovascular symptoms.

With this milestone, Pression moves into commercial manufacturing, distribution, and engagement with healthcare providers in outpatient and cardiac rehabilitation settings.

"Receiving FDA 510(k) clearance for the Pression Wave PRO is a definitive turning point for our company and, more importantly, for the millions of patients living with chronic stable angina," said Adam Salamon, CEO of Pression. "This technology began as a way to enhance performance in the military, and today, it is a cleared medical solution that brings the benefits of cardiac-gated compression out of the clinic and directly to outpatient care. Our mission has always been to make life-enhancing circulation therapy accessible, comfortable, and smart. With this clearance, we are ready to begin the next chapter of cardiovascular care in the United States.”

About the Wave PRO™ External Counter-Pulsation System

External counterpulsation (ECP) as a general technology involves the application of pressure to the patient’s legs using inflatable cuffs or sleeves to enhance perfusion at the heart. ECP using the Wave PRO involves wrapping the patient’s calves in sleeves containing inflatable bladders, which compress the calves in sync with the patient’s cardiac cycle. During diastole, a series of five bladders within the sleeves inflate sequentially from the patient’s ankles towards their knees. This compression results in diastolic augmentation, which is observable from the pulse data obtained using a fingertip photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor. During the diastolic phase, the heart is relaxed, allowing for coronary perfusion to the cardiac muscle. By compressing the inflatable bladders during this portion of the cardiac cycle, aortic retrograde flow is increased, allowing for enhanced coronary perfusion.

The Pression Wave PRO External Counter-Pulsation System is indicated for the treatment of chronic stable angina (CSA) that is refractory to optimal anti-anginal medical therapy and without options for revascularization in adult patients that weigh greater than 40 kg. In addition, it is intended for use in healthy adult patients to provide improvement in vasodilation, increased VO2, and increased blood flow. It is intended for use under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

About Pression

Headquartered in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, Pression, Inc. is a pioneer in noninvasive circulatory health. Founded in 2016 by former Lockheed Martin deputy corporate chief scientist and a team of medical entrepreneurs, the company specializes in smart, cardiac-gated compression technology. Pression’s flagship product, the Wave PRO, utilizes patented algorithms to synchronize external compression with a patient’s unique heart rhythm, enhancing blood flow and reducing the debilitating symptoms of chronic stable angina.

Pression is committed to providing quiet, portable, and affordable solutions that bridge the gap between clinical therapy and daily life. The company plans to work with clinical partners to support adoption of Wave PRO across outpatient settings. For more information, visit pression.com.

Media Contact

Alain Van Loo
COO, Pression
alain@pression.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale — yet, today announced that Walter Bering, a real estate professional with Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty, has joined the platform as the exclusive Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in ZIP code 77019. Known for his discretion, sophistication, and unwavering professionalism, Bering has become the trusted choice of buyers and sellers seeking unparalleled insight into Houston’s luxury and historic real estate landscape.

Unlisted’s technology is designed to open up possibilities for everyone in the real estate ecosystem: buyers, homeowners, and agents alike. Buyers gain new ways to discover homes they love beyond what’s listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain tools to better understand interest in their property and connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain a platform that elevates their expertise and brings more possibilities into view for their clients.

Unlisted uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. Users can quickly search and organize these homes into curated lists that meet a buyer’s criteria. Even when a home isn’t for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for the properties they love — creating new touchpoints for connection and giving homeowners insights they may not have previously considered.

Each vetted real estate professional partnering with Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, highlighting their credibility and deep understanding of the local market. As Unlisted expands nationwide, the mission remains the same: to provide buyers, homeowners, and agents with a platform built on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

Bering’s career is rooted not only in Houston’s luxury market, but in Houston’s history itself. His family’s story dates back to the 1840s, when the Bering brothers, early Texas settlers, made their way from Galveston up the bayou and ultimately established their roots in Houston. Six generations later, Walter has carried that legacy into a 45-year real estate career defined by leadership, excellence, and record-setting success.

A star member of the Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty Circle of Excellence, Bering has been honored as the company’s #1 producer ten times and is firmly established in the firm’s Hall of Fame. The Houston Business Journal consistently recognizes him for his top-tier sales volume and his participation in some of the region’s most significant home transactions. His reputation spans luxury neighborhoods such as River Oaks, Tanglewood, West University, Southampton, and the Memorial Villages, as well as high-profile historic homes requiring specialized expertise. His portfolio also extends beyond city limits, including multimillion-dollar ranch transactions throughout Central Texas.

“Houston is a city defined by its history and its momentum, and Unlisted gives homeowners and buyers a new way to explore both,” said Bering. “I look forward to serving as a resource for the communities I’ve worked in for decades and to bringing even more clarity and opportunity to clients across 77019.”

“Walter has long been a trusted voice in Houston real estate, and his expertise in both luxury and historic homes brings meaningful value to the buyers and homeowners we serve,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to the platform.”

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com. For Unlisted for Agents, visit UnlistedHomes.com/Agents.

To learn more about Walter Bering, visit his Unlisted Profile or his website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted unlocks the potential in homes that aren’t for sale — yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale — in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. Selected for TechCrunch’s 2025 Startup Battlefield 200 as one of the top tech startups globally, and backed by HearstLab, Hearst Newspapers, VC414, StageNext Fund, and prominent angel investors, Unlisted gives buyers a competitive edge in today’s challenging housing market. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Maura Racz
maura@unlistedinc.com

Lockin, the #1 bestselling vein recognition smart lock brand worldwide, announced the launch of the first-ever vein recognition smart lock powered with wirelessoptical-charging — the V7 Max — today at CES, where it received the CES 2026 Innovation Awards® Best of Innovation honor. Featuring Lockin’s revolutionary AuraCharge™ and LockinAI®, the V7 Max is guaranteed to work with complete reliability regardless of weather, light, or installation location, and zero need to recharge or replace batteries.

The V7 Max receives stable, rapid, highly-efficient power wirelessly within a four-meter range, utilizing eye-safe optical output with uniform beam profile and dual safety-certification from TÜV Rheinland and SGS. Competitor smart locks rely on disposable cells, lithium-ion rechargeables and solar, and are therefore constrained by limited endurance, frequent maintenance and light-dependence. Lockin’s breakthrough in family-safe, wireless optical charging advances the industry into a fourth-generation of power technology, eliminating the most common consumer pain point — battery anxiety.

Equipped with triple biometric security (finger vein, palm vein and 3D facial recognition), the V7 Max also introduces LockinAI, which offers 10 core scenarios to customize user experience, prevent theft, detect and manage deliveries, index video for smart keyword search, and more.

“While third-generation power solutions like perovskite solar offer promising innovation, the technology continues to rely on adequate light to function reliably. AuraCharge requires no sunlight, no manual charging, and provides an infinite power supply,” says Bill Chen, founder and CEO of Lockin. “We’re thrilled to offer users a new level of freedom and security with a smart lock they can install once, and never worry about again.”

Masterfully designed by Hartmut Esslinger, Apple’s former chief designer, the sleek mortise smart lock features two high-definition outer cameras with panoramic view for video doorbell functionality, dual 5-inch touchscreens inside and out, and the industry’s thinnest 15mm front panel. Compatible with Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung smart home systems, the V7 Max integrates seamlessly via the Matter protocol without the need for additional hubs

Lockin has also announced the release of its new Veno Pro Wireless, a redesigned version of its bestselling deadbolt smart lock, the Veno Pro, which will be equipped with AuraCharge wireless charging. The collection’s latest solar-powered smart lock, the Aeon, will also be debuted at CES. Utilizing advanced perovskite solar technology, it offers a significant improvement in energy conversion efficiency compared to traditional solar panels, and can even recharge using light from overcast skies.

The V7 Max will be available for live demonstrations at Lockin’s exhibit at the Venetian Expo (Booth #52712), and all three smart locks will be available for preorder following CES, with shipping scheduled for early 2026.

Lockin’s entire collection of vein-scanning smart locks are available for purchase via Amazon and lockin.com.

About Lockin

Founded in 2014, Lockin is a global leader in palm vein recognition technology and ranks first in the palm vein smart lock industry. The company holds more than 500 authorized core technology patents and has received prestigious international recognition, including the Red Dot Design Award (2025, 2023) and the iF Design Award (2024, 2020). Through collaborations with leading brands such as Samsung and Wyze, Lockin has co-developed several best-selling smart locks. To date, the company has served more than 42 million users worldwide.

For more information, visit lockin.com, follow Lockin on Instagram, and shop on Amazon.

For partnership opportunities, email chenglinna@lockin.com.

Media Contact

Hannah Wilkinson
hannah@dolcevitapr.co
+1 707-977-5101

Peter Chau
peter@lockin.com