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Yield.xyz, the leading unified yield API for digital asset platforms, today announced the integration of Maple Finance, expanding access to institutional-grade yields through Zerion, one of the industry’s most popular wallet applications.

This integration allows wallets, fintech apps, and neobanks to seamlessly access Maple Finance’s onchain asset management infrastructure via the Yield.xyz API, gaining exposure to yield opportunities on Circle USD (USDC) and Tether (USDT).

 "Yield.xyz abstracts away all the complexity of yield infrastructure — providing a one-stop solution for Zerion to offer seamless staking and yield opportunities across multiple networks, without managing hundreds of integrations. It’s a powerful layer that just works," said Yassine Abdallaoui, senior product manager at Zerion.

Bringing Institutional Yield to the Retail Experience

Maple Finance is the largest onchain asset manager that generates institutional-grade yields through overcollateralized lending. By integrating Maple Finance via Yield.xyz, Zerion users can now discover, enter, and manage Maple yields directly from the Zerion interface — without navigating complex protocol interactions or custody flows.

“Our goal at Yield.xyz is to make high-quality yield access as simple as possible for wallets, fintechs, and neobanks,” said Serafin Engel, founder of Yield.xyz. “Integrating Maple brings a new class of institutional yield to our API and opens up a powerful opportunity for end users within apps like Zerion.”

A New Standard for Onchain Asset Management

Maple’s integration into the Yield API marks an important step in bridging the gap between institutional and retail onchain credit markets. Through Yield.xyz’s standardized infrastructure, partners can now integrate Maple’s syrupUSDC and syrupUSDT dollar yield assets with minimal engineering overhead while preserving user control and transparency.

"This integration further expands the availability of curated institutional-quality yield,” added Sid Powell, CEO of Maple. “We’re excited to partner with leading apps like Zerion to bring sustainable high yield opportunities to more users across DeFi through Yield.xyz."

About Yield.xyz

Yield.xyz is the leading unified yield infrastructure powering the next generation of fintech and Web3 finance. Through a single API, it enables wallets, neobanks, and fintech platforms to integrate onchain yield from staking, lending, and restaking protocols across more than 75 networks. Trusted by leaders including Ledger, Tangem, Zerion, Utila, and Deblock, Yield.xyz abstracts away blockchain complexity — delivering seamless, compliant, and revenue-driving yield experiences to millions of users worldwide. To learn more, visit yield.xyz.

About Maple Finance

Launched in 2021, Maple is the leading onchain asset manager combining capital markets expertise with DeFi innovation. Maple powers a suite of offerings including secured lending, bitcoin yield, and structured products. As a leader in decentralized finance and institutional crypto markets, Maple has built a global asset management ecosystem focused on innovation, transparency, and accessibility. Learn more at maple.finance.

Media Contact

Apurv Mishra
apurv@yield.xyz

Xmind, a mind mapping software company that has served millions of users for two decades, said on Tuesday it was expanding beyond its mind mapping tool into AI-powered project management, marking the next step in making project planning visual, intelligent, and effortless.

Xmind, a mind mapping software company that has served millions of users for two decades, said on Tuesday it is expanding beyond its core mind mapping tool into AI-powered project management, marking the next step in making project planning visual, intelligent, and effortless.

The company announced a platform redesign featuring what it calls "AI Work Breakdown" technology that automatically converts complex projects into structured tasks, marking a significant shift from its traditional mind mapping focus.

The new features include seamless switching between mind map and Gantt chart views, smart task dependencies, and a streamlined interface designed to reduce complexity typically associated with project management software, the company said.

"We're not just adding features; we're rethinking how people approach projects from conception to completion," chief operating office and co-founder Mango Du said in a statement.

The move positions Xmind to compete in the project management software market, which research firms project will reach $9.81 billion by 2026. Unlike traditional project management tools, Xmind's approach emphasizes simplicity and creative workflow integration.

The platform uses artificial intelligence to automatically break down projects into manageable components, reducing manual planning work while maintaining real-time synchronization across different view formats.

Xmind's transformation comes as software companies increasingly integrate AI capabilities to differentiate their products in competitive markets.

About Xmind

Xmind is a provider of visual thinking and project management software, serving millions of users worldwide. Founded with the mission to make complex thinking accessible and practical, Xmind continues to develop solutions at the intersection of creativity and productivity. For more information, visit xmind.com.

Media Contact

Chang Chen
c@hockeystick.io

Gone are the days when a 9-to-5 job in an office was the pinnacle of aspiration. More and more employees are realizing the detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle and constant corporate stress on their energy levels. And the results haven't been long in coming. More and more Brits are making a career shift, opting for a new profession over a promotion. Moreover, active pursuits that keep them from settling down are a priority. In this article, we will examine this trend in detail.

Why Brits Are Leaving Their Offices

There's no definitive answer to this question. Several factors are behind this trend, which, taken together, have led to this result:

• Health care. This includes both physical and mental health. Sitting for long hours at a computer often causes back problems; computers can damage eyesight; and irregular meals can lead to stomach problems. Furthermore, the constant stress of running can be exhausting and lead to burnout.
• Accessibility of retraining. While people previously had no idea how to get started in the fitness industry, personal training courses are now readily available, allowing you to find work almost immediately.
• Visible results of work. While in an office, the role of many employees goes completely unnoticed; in a fitness studio, it's immediately apparent. Seeing clients' happy faces gives a trainer a sense of satisfaction.
• Increased demand for professionals. The pandemic has exposed the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle. Furthermore, modern people understand the importance of maintaining health. Therefore, the demand for good trainers has increased.
• Flexibility and independence. Being a coach allows you to create your own schedule, combine in-person and online sessions, and work in different locations.

All these factors add up to one big picture: fitness is no longer just a hobby but a full-fledged professional field, attractive to people of all ages and professions.

How the Training Works and What to Expect

The professional retraining system is logical and straightforward. Even someone with no fitness experience will find it easy to choose a program. Depending on their starting level, a suitable program can be selected. Together, these steps form a coherent system that provides a clear, logical path from amateur to professional.

Those seeking retraining are most often offered a choice of three programs:

1. A basic qualification, which qualifies them to work in fitness clubs and assist clients in the gym. Students often don't stop there and continue to improve.
2. The next step opens the door to independent work and building their own client base. Graduates of this level can work as full-fledged specialists.
3. An advanced level allows for development in specialized areas, such as rehabilitation, functional training, or working with the elderly.

Most schools offer hybrid training: online theory and in-person practice at their gyms. This is convenient for those who are still working and can't afford full-time employment. The program includes modules on anatomy, exercise technique, customer service, and business skills—after all, trainers today are often both marketers and entrepreneurs.

Figures That Confirm the Trend

The statistics speak for themselves. According to UK Active, there are over 57,000 fitness instructors and trainers working in the country, and this number is growing every year. The personal training market is valued at approximately £630 million, and the number of women training to become trainers has increased by a quarter since 2016. 

At the same time, interest in private studios and mobile trainers is growing, especially among Generations Y and Z, who value a personalized approach and digital solutions. Overall, the figures confirm the obvious: the UK fitness industry is becoming one of the most dynamic areas for retraining and self-employment.

Not Just Pros: What Difficulties Do Beginners Face?

Of course, the path to a new profession isn't without challenges. And if you're viewing the fitness trainer profession through rose-colored glasses, it's time to take them off. The following requirements await you on the path to your desired goal:

• Financial start-up. Courses, insurance, and sports equipment all require investment.
• Competition. In large cities, the market is already saturated, and you can only stand out through the quality of your services and a unique presentation.
• Income instability. At the beginning, the number of clients can fluctuate from month to month.
• Physical activity. The profession requires endurance and constant care for your body.
• Continuous development. New trends, techniques, and safety standards emerge annually, and it's impossible to stay current without training.

Taken together, these factors create a certain barrier to entry, but it is precisely this barrier that weeds out casual applicants and fosters a professional community where knowledge, energy, and responsibility are valued.

Conclusion

The transition from an office desk to a barbell isn't just a metaphor, but a true story told by thousands of people across the UK. They're tired of routine work, endless video calls, and KPIs, and are choosing a profession where they can see results, inspire others, and live a more active life.

Yes, the path isn't always easy. But those who've made it share one thing: physically working with people gives a sense of satisfaction that's hard to find behind an office monitor. And perhaps that's why more and more Brits are changing not just their careers, but their very approach to life.

Media Contact

Steven Dick
steven.dick@thefitnessgrp.co.uk

In partnership with USC Brain Health and the Medical University of South Carolina–Orangeburg, "My Mama Joe, Hope & Help" will be shown in South Carolina as part of an educational outreach event called a Community Engagement Forum. The one-hour documentary film, which streams and broadcasts on the PBS platform, follows the journey of a family caring for their matriarch living with dementia. The film is part of The Mama Joe Project, an initiative focused on supporting caregivers, promoting healthy aging, and improving outcomes for elders living with dementia and their families.

Produced by educator and creative Herb Caldwell, the film raises awareness of the growing issue of family caregiving and dementia by combining personal storytelling with best-practice guidance from experts in the field representing Harvard University, the CDC, the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, AARP, Washington University in St. Louis, the Alzheimer’s Association, and more.

The Community Engagement Forum will take place Thursday, Nov. 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Nissan of Orangeburg Movie Theater at Claflin University, and Friday, Nov. 7, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Nickelodeon Theater in Columbia. The event features a post-film discussion with local experts including author and gerontologist Dr. Macie P. Smith and Dr. Julius Fridriksson, vice president for research at USC. It will be hosted by WIS-TV’s Emmy Award–winning journalist Judi Gatson.

“The film screening, along with the mini-fair and expert panel, provides a unique opportunity for the community to engage directly with a concentrated force of information and resources to support their journey,” said Herb Caldwell, producer of "My Mama Joe, Hope & Help."

The Mama Joe Project comes to South Carolina in November, which is recognized as both Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month. This is a free event appropriate for all ages and audiences, with each attendee receiving a resource guide and a complimentary popcorn-and-soft-drink combo. Registration is open now at www.mamajoeproject.com/southcarolina.

Media coverage and attendance are welcome. The following participants are available for interview:

• Judi Gatson: Event host, journalist, and caregiver
• Dr. Macie P. Smith: Author, gerontologist, and social worker
• Dr. Herb Caldwell: Film’s producer and coordinator of outreach

For information, contact Kristi Walls at info@mamajoeproject.com or (618) 615-7549.

About The Mama Joe Project

The Mama Joe Project is an educational outreach initiative that integrates storytelling via film with evidence-based guidance to support caregivers, promote healthy aging, and support for elders living with dementia and their family. Core to the efforts are Community Engagement Forums, a free outreach event that includes screening the documentary film "My Mama Joe, Hope & Help," coupled with discussion and participation with local experts and organizations. The goal is to better connect individuals and families to information and resources for their health and care journey. To learn more, visit www.mamajoeproject.com.

U.S. government agencies, major financial institutions, and top universities are increasingly abandoning traditional fax machines in favor of encrypted, cloud-based digital fax services, a move driven by heightened cybersecurity risks and stringent data protection regulations that have rendered legacy systems a significant liability. The transition reflects a wider, urgent push for digital modernization within both public and private sectors, as organizations handling sensitive information seek to close security gaps inherent in older communication technologies. Companies like iFax, which provides services to the U.S. government, Citibank, and Harvard University, are at the forefront of this shift, offering platforms that meet rigorous compliance standards like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act or HIPAA and Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act or GLBA.

Global Pressure on Data Security

The migration comes as governments worldwide confront the consequences of outdated IT infrastructure, where the average cost of a public sector data breach reached $2.86 million in 2023. The UK government, for instance, has been urged to go further and faster on information security improvements following a 2023 internal review that identified multiple data breaches across departments (Gov.uk, 2022). Similarly, Canada's Shared Services agency reports have flagged unhealthy IT applications and supply chain vulnerabilities as key risks to government operations (Government of Canada, n.d.). Cybersecurity experts argue that traditional faxing, which often transmits data over unencrypted phone lines and exposes physical documents, is fundamentally incompatible with modern security requirements, as these systems typically lack the robust audit trails, access controls, and encryption necessary to protect sensitive data.

Compliance Drives Cloud Adoption

For organizations in regulated industries, the move is less a choice than a necessity. In the United States, HIPAA mandates strict privacy and security rules for patient health information (United States Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.). Likewise, the GLBA requires financial institutions to explain their information-sharing processes and to safeguard sensitive data (Federal Trade Commission, n.d.). Encrypted cloud fax solutions address these requirements directly by utilizing 256-bit SSL encryption for data in transit and at rest, creating a secure channel for communication. According to information published by iFax, its service is built to be HIPAA and GLBA compliant, providing features like secure storage, detailed activity logs, and user authentication that are now considered standard for enterprise-grade data handling.

The core vulnerability of legacy systems is the lack of a verifiable, secure chain of custody for sensitive information, said a technology analyst familiar with enterprise communication trends. "Cloud-based platforms solve this by centralizing control and creating an immutable record of every transaction, which is essential for both security and regulatory audits. The adoption of these platforms is a direct response to the escalating regulatory and threat landscape where non-compliance is not an option. This is why verifiable compliance is the main purchasing driver for organizations in healthcare and finance, far outweighing cost or convenience alone."

A Shift in Infrastructure

Beyond security, the operational benefits are accelerating adoption, eliminating costs associated with hardware maintenance, dedicated phone lines, paper, and toner. The scale of this migration away from physical hardware is significant; according to company figures, iFax has served over 5 million users across 20,000 companies since its founding in 2008. This move to a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model allows organizations to integrate online fax directly into existing digital workflows, including email platforms and electronic health records (EHR). This improves efficiency for employees who can send and receive sensitive documents from any authorized device without being associated with a physical location, contributing to the broader growth of the cloud communications market.

Media Contact

Vic Duran
vic@amplify.xyz

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that Betsy Daniel of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty has joined as the exclusive Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in ZIP code 75028. Known for her refined blend of strategy, integrity, and personalized service, Daniel brings more than 15 years of high-end sales and executive leadership experience to Unlisted’s expanding nationwide network.

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

Using publicly available data, Unlisted builds a digital property profile for every home in the country. These profiles allow 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 fostering meaningful connections between homeowners, buyers, 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 proven market knowledge, professionalism, and trusted reputation. As Unlisted continues to grow across the U.S., its mission remains the same: to empower buyers, homeowners, and agents through connection, transparency, and possibility.

Betsy Daniel brings a refined approach to Dallas–Fort Worth real estate, combining her executive background and sharp eye for presentation with a deep understanding of local market dynamics. A Purdue University graduate with over three decades of experience living in the area, Betsy’s career began at Neiman Marcus, where she cultivated her signature focus on quality, service, and design. Her subsequent leadership roles with international jewelry brands further honed her ability to recognize value and deliver exceptional client experiences—skills she now applies to every home she represents.

“I’m excited to be part of a new, growing community of real estate professionals and to serve homeowners and buyers in my ZIP,” said Daniel.

“Betsy’s professionalism, taste, and client-first mindset make her an extraordinary addition to our network,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “Her leadership experience and long-standing connection to the Dallas–Fort Worth community align perfectly with Unlisted’s mission to make real estate more transparent and human.”

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

To learn more about Betsy Daniel, visit her Unlisted Profile or Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty.

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of 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. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

Nestled between the timeless beauty of the Bosphorus and the vibrant crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is not only a city of rich culture and history but also a global beacon for cutting-edge dental care. At the forefront of this medical renaissance is Vitrin Clinic, an Istanbul-based dental center that has mastered the complex art of subperiosteal implants paired seamlessly with Hollywood Smile aesthetics.

Dr. Rifat Alsaman, head of doctors at Vitrin Clinic, proudly describes the clinic’s mission: “In a competitive market like Istanbul’s dental tourism scene, where many offer similar services, we distinguish ourselves through unmatched expertise, innovation, and patient care. Our clinic consistently outranks competitors on platforms like Google, Trustpilot, attracting patients worldwide who seek both functional solutions and show-stopping smiles.”

Turkey’s dental tourism boom is fueled by high-quality care at accessible prices. Yet, Vitrin Clinic goes beyond affordability; it delivers world-class results in one of the most challenging areas of implantology/subperiosteal implants combined with the artistry of Hollywood Smile makeovers.

Subperiosteal Implants: A Game-Changer for Complex Cases

Traditional dental implants require sufficient jawbone density, leaving many patients with severe bone loss with limited options. Subperiosteal implants offer a revolutionary alternative, fitting a custom metal framework directly atop the jawbone beneath the gum line to support prosthetic teeth.

“This is a highly specialized procedure,” Dr. Alsaman explains. “Many clinics hesitate to offer it because it demands precise surgical skill and advanced digital technology. At Vitrin Clinic, we’ve perfected this technique. Our use of three-dimensional imaging and patient-specific metal frameworks ensures stability and long-term success, even for cases considered untreatable elsewhere.”

Hollywood Smiles: Beyond Function to Flawless Form

Once the solid foundation of subperiosteal implants is in place, Vitrin Clinic elevates the treatment with personalized Hollywood Smile restorations. “The beauty of our approach is that patients never have to sacrifice aesthetics for function,” Dr. Alsaman notes. “Our smile designs are meticulously crafted based on facial structure, skin tone, and personality, resulting in bright, natural-looking smiles that truly enhance each patient’s unique beauty.”

Unlike generic treatments, each Hollywood Smile at Vitrin Clinic is a bespoke creation, fabricated using premium materials that replicate the translucency and texture of natural teeth. This attention to detail consistently impresses patients and critics alike.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market

Istanbul boasts hundreds of dental clinics, many targeting international patients with competitive pricing. However, Vitrin Clinic’s track record on global review sites tells a different story. “Our Google and Trustpilot scores are among the highest in the region, reflecting real patient satisfaction,” Dr. Alsaman shares. “Our patients come from Europe, North America, and beyond. The combination of advanced technology, expert teams, and genuine care makes us a destination clinic.”

Transparency and comprehensive care are pillars of the clinic’s reputation. From the initial virtual consultation to the final fitting, every step is explained clearly, ensuring patients understand the process, costs, and expected outcomes.

Cost Efficiency Without Compromise

One major factor drawing patients to Istanbul is the cost advantage. Vitrin Clinic offers combined subperiosteal implant and Hollywood Smile treatments ranging from $9,000 to $20,000 — a fraction of prices in the US or Western Europe. For those researching treatment options, this Cost of Dentures in Turkey guide provides transparent insights and helps patients compare procedures before traveling..

“Despite the competitive pricing, our quality never wavers,” says Dr. Alsaman. “We invest heavily in technology and materials, and our expert team undergoes continuous training to remain at the forefront of the field. Patients receive premium care without hidden fees or compromises.”

A Holistic, Patient-Centered Experience

Vitrin Clinic is more than a dental clinic; it’s a full-service experience designed for international patients. Located in the heart of Istanbul, the clinic provides airport transfers, translation services, and local support, making the treatment journey smooth and stress-free.

“Many patients tell us that their experience with Vitrin Clinic exceeded their expectations, not only because of their new smile but due to the warmth and professionalism of our team,” Dr. Alsaman remarks. “We understand that traveling for dental treatment can be daunting, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where patients feel cared for every step of the way.”

Cutting-Edge Technology Fuels Precision

The clinic’s investment in advanced technology is key to its success. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) delivers ultra-detailed 3D images of the jawbone, allowing precise planning of the subperiosteal implant framework. Digital smile design software enables patients to visualize their future smile before any procedure begins.

“Our in-house lab allows for rapid adjustments and premium fabrication, reducing turnaround times and enhancing accuracy,” Dr. Alsaman explains. “The integration of these technologies means fewer surprises and higher success rates.”

A Collaborative Team of Specialists

Vitrin Clinic’s multidisciplinary approach is another factor that sets it apart. Oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and cosmetic dentists collaborate closely on each case to ensure every aspect from structural integrity to visual harmony is meticulously addressed.

“We don’t just treat teeth; we transform lives,” Dr. Alsaman says. “Our patients leave not only with restored function but with renewed confidence and a smile they’re proud to show the world.”

Proven Long-Term Success and Global Trust

With a decade-long success rate exceeding 90% for subperiosteal implants combined with high-quality restorations, Vitrin Clinic’s results speak volumes. Testimonials from international patients praise the clinic’s expertise, transparent communication, and the life-changing impact of their new smiles.

“Many had been told elsewhere that implants weren’t an option,” Dr. Alsaman shares. “At Vitrin Clinic, we turn that ‘no’ into a ‘yes’ , a beautiful, lasting solution that transforms not only oral health but quality of life.”

Begin Your Journey in Istanbul

For prospective patients considering this advanced dental care, Vitrin Clinic offers virtual assessments to review dental history, current challenges, and aesthetic goals. “We provide preliminary treatment plans and transparent quotes to help patients make informed decisions from anywhere in the world,” Dr. Alsaman emphasizes.

Typically, patients spend seven to ten days in Istanbul for initial procedures, followed by a shorter return visit for final restorations, allowing for optimal healing with minimal disruption to daily life.

About Vitrin Clinic

Vitrin Clinic is a premier Istanbul-based dental center specializing in advanced implantology, cosmetic dentistry, and complex full-mouth rehabilitation. Renowned for combining innovative technology, expert craftsmanship, and personalized care, the clinic serves patients worldwide seeking exceptional dental transformations in the vibrant heart of Turkey. For more information, visit vitrinclinic.com.

Media Contact

Furkan Lüleci
asset@flcommunications.co.uk

Cata-Kor, a U.S.-based supplement company focused on next-generation nutraceutical innovation, has earned the Alkemist Assured™ designation for its NAD+ Advanced product. This designation underscores the brand's ongoing commitment to product quality and transparency in labeling.

The Alkemist Assured program is run by Alkemist Labs, a leading independent testing laboratory in the supplement industry. As an independent third-party verifier, Alkemist is ISO 17025 accredited and specializes in identity, potency, and purity testing of botanical and dietary supplement ingredients. Alkemist Assured designation confirms that NAD+ Advanced meets strict standards for product quality and integrity. It gives consumers, retailers, and partners added confidence that Cata-Kor products, tested under the rigorous standards of Alkemist Labs, are transparent, trustworthy, and free from contaminants.

This latest designation follows the earlier approval of Cata-Kor's NAD+ Core, which contains 250 mg of liposomal NAD+ per serving. In contrast, the NAD+ Advanced formula doubles the dose to 500 mg and includes resveratrol, a well-researched antioxidant often associated with cellular energy support and healthy aging.

"We're proud to continue building trust in the supplement industry by meeting high standards for transparency and testing," said Alex Rahacheuski, quality control specialist at Cata-Kor. "Alkemist's independent verification is widely regarded as a gold standard in supplement quality assurance, and we're honored to meet those requirements. Our customers deserve confidence in what they're taking."

Cata-Kor retains full certificates of analysis (COAs) from Alkemist Labs and provides simplified lab summaries as part of its commitment to transparent communication. Both NAD+ Core and Advanced feature the company's proprietary LipoNAD+ delivery system, which was developed to enhance ingredient stability and absorption.

The Alkemist Assured verification represents another step in Cata-Kor's effort to lead with transparency and validated quality as it grows its portfolio in the NAD+ space.

About Cata-Kor

Cata-Kor is a U.S.-based supplement company developing advanced nutraceutical technologies that target cellular health, healthy aging, and performance optimization. The company’s production and testing are fully located in the United States. Learn more at catakor.com.

About Alkemist Labs

Alkemist Labs is an ISO 17025-accredited contract testing laboratory specializing in plant authentication, botanical ingredient identification, quantitative analytical services, and contaminant screening for the food and beverage, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical industries. Located in a state-of-the-art facility in Garden Grove, California, Alkemist Labs offers clients a wide range of specialty research services to evaluate the identity, purity, and quality of botanical raw materials, dietary ingredients, and finished products. Alkemist Labs also produces a complete line of Composite Reference Botanicals (CRBs), critical tools for botanical identity verification. Since it was founded in 1997, Alkemist Labs has become the ideal “partner for quality” to companies interested in producing high-quality natural products requiring independent third-party analysis, stability and shelf-life studies, certificates of analysis, and cGMP compliance. To learn more, visit www.alkemist.com.

Media Contact

Alex Rahacheuski
press@catakor.com

For American patients prioritizing quick information, this analysis identifies the ten leading clinics, starting with Este Favor Hair Clinic for its award-winning FUE/DHI procedures and adherence to European standards. It also spotlights Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic as a Sapphire FUE pioneer, Vera Clinic for comprehensive care, Cosmedica (Dr. Acar) as a Micro Sapphire DHI specialist, and Asmed Hair Clinic for German safety protocols. Completing the list are HLC Hair Clinic (Dr. Öztan), known for manual FUE; Now Hair Time, recognized for hospital environment safety; Transmed Clinic, valued for its institutional credibility; Estetik International, famous for its Organic Hair Transplant; and Medicana International, which offers major hospital group affiliation and security.

Introduction: Turkey's Global Ascent in Hair Restoration

The quest for a permanent solution to hair loss has fueled the growth of a multibillion-dollar hair restoration industry worldwide. Over the last decade, one nation has emerged as the undisputed global capital of the procedure: Turkey. Propelled by a powerful combination of medical expertise, highly competitive pricing, and logistical efficiency, Hair Transplant Turkey has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of aesthetic medicine.

For patients in the United States, the appeal is undeniable. A procedure that can cost upward of $15,000 to $25,000 in major U.S. cities is often available in Istanbul—complete with travel arrangements and aftercare—for a fraction of that price. This stark cost-effectiveness has turned the decision into a strategic one, driving a surge in medical tourism focused on getting the best hair transplant value without compromising quality. This report serves as a definitive guide for Americans seeking a hair transplant in Turkey, analyzing the criteria that separate true expertise from mere marketing.

Spotlight: Detailed Analysis of the Top 10 Best Hair Transplant Clinics

The following analysis details the strengths and specializations of the top hair transplant clinics in Istanbul and Ankara, providing specific reasons why each center merits a position on this definitive list based on patient reviews, credentials, technology, and transparency.

1. Este Favor Hair Transplant – The Award-Winning Standard

Este Favor has powerfully established itself as a leader in the Istanbul hair transplant market, consistently positioning itself at the top through exceptional clinical outcomes and high patient trust. This prestigious position is underscored by its status as an award-winning clinic, frequently recognized by international health bodies for its commitment to patient safety and achieving superior, natural-looking results. Crucially, the clinic operates under a rigorous quality control system that adheres to demanding European and German standards for sterilization, equipment maintenance, and surgical procedure protocols, guaranteeing patients a world-class experience defined by professionalism. Este Favor maintains a singular focus on the FUE technique and high-density DHI hair transplant procedures, with specialized medical staff trained in creating ultra-dense and aesthetically balanced hairlines for advanced hair loss patterns. A major distinguishing factor that maximizes the value of the Turkey hair transplant price is the meticulous detail of its all-inclusive packages, which handle all logistical concerns—from premium lodging and personal transfers to comprehensive, personalized aftercare kits—allowing the international patient to focus entirely on recovery and excellent hair restoration results.

2. Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic – The Sapphire FUE Pioneer

Dr. Serkan Aygin, with over 25 years of experience, is globally recognized as one of Turkey's most decorated hair transplant surgeons. His clinic is particularly celebrated for its mastery of the Sapphire FUE technique, where the use of sapphire-tipped blades ensures highly precise canal openings, leading to superior density and minimal tissue damage. Aygin Clinic’s large international patient volume is a testament to its proven track record in combining FUE and DHI methods for consistent, natural-looking results. The clinic is often the benchmark when evaluating clinics based on procedure volume and long-term success in the Istanbul hair transplant scene.

3. Vera Clinic – Excellence in Comprehensive Care and Technology

Vera Clinic has earned significant international recognition, including an award as the number one hair transplant clinic in Turkey by the European Medicine Awards. The clinic emphasizes doctor-supervised treatment plans and is known for its transparent, fixed pricing in its all-inclusive packages. Specializing in both FUE and advanced DHI hair transplant methods, Vera Clinic provides a smooth, technologically modern experience, often incorporating supportive treatments to maximize graft yield. Its commitment to high patient service standards makes it a top choice for those prioritizing comprehensive logistical support alongside surgical quality.

4. Cosmedica (Dr. Levent Acar) – The Micro Sapphire DHI Specialist

Led by Dr. Levent Acar, Cosmedica distinguishes itself as a highly innovative center known for developing and perfecting the Micro Sapphire DHI technique. This approach combines the low-trauma harvesting of FUE with the precise implantation of the DHI pen, using ultra-thin sapphire blades to optimize canal size and density. Cosmedica’s focus on this specialized advanced technique attracts patients seeking the least invasive procedure with the highest potential for dense packing, making it a strong contender for the best FUE clinic Turkey has to offer.

5. Asmed Hair Clinic – German Standards and Safety Protocols

Asmed Hair Clinic stands out due to its adherence to stringent German quality assurance standards (TÜV certified) and a holistic, multidisciplinary approach. Under the guidance of Dr. Koray Erdogan, the clinic ensures surgical safety by incorporating in-house experts in cardiology and dermatology. It utilizes both FUE and DHI methods and is highly praised by patients for its rigorous safety protocols and meticulous, personalized care, particularly appealing to those seeking maximum medical oversight.

6. HLC Hair Clinic (Dr. Özgür Öztan) – The Manual FUE Artisan

Located in Ankara, HLC (Hairline Clinic) is characterized by a dedication to quality over volume. Dr. Özgür Öztan, an ISHRS member, personally oversees and often performs critical steps using manual FUE. This deliberate, hand-crafted approach, which favors custom donor planning and lower graft counts to protect the donor area, appeals to patients who prioritize the artistic skill and focus of a single, highly experienced surgeon—often considered one of the best hair transplant surgeons in the region.

7. Now Hair Time – Pioneering Hospital Environment Care

Now Hair Time offers key reassurance for many American patients: procedures are conducted in a fully equipped hospital environment. This affiliation ensures immediate access to comprehensive medical support, significantly enhancing safety protocols. As a long-standing brand, Now Hair Time has mastered both Sapphire FUE and DHI, combining technical skill with comprehensive VIP all-inclusive packages for a secure and comfortable experience.

8. Transmed Clinic – Historical Credibility and ISHRS Leadership

Established in 1994, Transmed Clinic is one of the original pioneers of hair restoration in Turkey. Its medical director has been a board member of the ESHRS and actively involved in ISHRS leadership, guaranteeing deep-rooted professional credibility. Transmed combines decades of experience with modern FUE technique, making it a trusted choice for patients who value institutional history and global academic involvement when selecting a clinic for hair restoration in Istanbul.

9. Estetik International – The Organic Hair Transplant Innovator

Estetik International, widely recognized for its breadth of aesthetic services, developed the patented Organic Hair Transplant method. This unique approach involves enriching the transplant area with a specialized solution prior to the procedure, aiming to improve the health of the recipient site and enhance the growth of the newly implanted follicles. The clinic’s luxurious facilities and innovative techniques attract patients seeking a holistic approach to their hair restoration journey.

10. Medicana International İstanbul – Hospital Group Safety

As a major division of the extensive Medicana hospital group, Medicana International İstanbul offers hair transplant services under the complete umbrella of a multispecialty hospital. This structure is a major advantage for patients, especially those with preexisting medical conditions, as it ensures the highest level of emergency preparedness and safety protocols. The clinic leverages its advanced medical infrastructure to perform modern FUE and DHI procedures with clinical rigor.

The Great Divide: All-Inclusive Costs vs. the U.S. Model

The most significant factor drawing Western patients to the Turkish market is the overwhelming financial discrepancy. A comprehensive cost analysis reveals why the Turkey hair transplant price has become the industry's defining metric, often making an Istanbul hair transplant for Americans a highly practical option.

Understanding the Cost Variance and All-Inclusive Packages

In the U.S., hair restoration procedures are typically billed on a “per graft” basis, often exceeding $18,000 for a standard session. This fee rarely includes auxiliary expenses. In stark contrast, the leading hair transplant clinics in Turkey operate on an all-inclusive package model. These packages consolidate the surgery fee, all necessary medications, post-operative care, VIP airport transfers, and several nights of four- or five-star hotel accommodation. The final, transparent price for a high-graft procedure in Turkey usually falls within the range of $2,500 to $5,000.

This structure delivers exceptional value, often saving patients between $8,000 and $15,000, even after factoring in international airfare. The primary reasons for this lower Turkey hair transplant price are reduced operational costs, aggressive local competition, and the high volume of international patients.

Defining Excellence: Essential Quality Metrics for International Patients

For a surgical procedure, expertise outweighs affordability. American consumers seeking the best hair transplant results must apply rigorous standards to their selection process. The true mark of a top-tier Turkish clinic lies in three critical areas: surgeon expertise, accreditations, and robust safety protocols. This is the core answer to how to choose a hair transplant clinic in Turkey.

The Importance of Named Surgeon Expertise and Credibility

In the high-volume Turkish market, patients must verify the involvement of the specialist. The best hair transplant surgeons are those who personally perform the critical stages—specifically, the creation of the recipient channels, which dictate the density, angle, and natural appearance of the new hairline. Furthermore, possessing high-level credentials, such as membership in international bodies like the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), is a globally recognized mark of professionalism and commitment to ethical practice.

International Accreditations and Safety Protocols

Credibility is nonnegotiable. The elite Turkish clinics often secure accreditations that meet Western standards, such as JCI (Joint Commission International), which signifies adherence to strict international patient safety and quality protocols. The operating environment must also be sterile and comply with health regulations, ensuring immediate response capabilities should complications arise.

Technical Innovation: FUE and DHI as the Global Standard

The success of the Turkish market is inextricably linked to its rapid adoption of advanced surgical methods. Modern hair restoration now relies almost entirely on sophisticated follicular unit–based techniques.

Advancing Precision with Sapphire FUE and DHI Hair Transplant

The best hair transplant clinics in Turkey have moved beyond basic FUE to embrace next-generation tools and methodologies. Sapphire FUE utilizes blades crafted from single sapphire crystals, allowing for much finer, smoother recipient channels in the scalp. These precise incisions significantly reduce trauma, leading to quicker healing and greater density (dense packing). The DHI hair transplant (Direct Hair Implantation) method uses a specialized pen-like tool that extracts and implants the graft simultaneously. This method is highly favored for maintaining better control over the depth and direction of the hair follicle, often resulting in less bleeding and a higher graft survival rate. This advanced use of technology is often seen as the mark of a top FUE clinic in Turkey.

Critical Assessment: Red Flags and Risks in Medical Tourism

While Turkey offers exceptional value in hair restoration, the market is not without risk. As responsible consumers, American patients must recognize the inherent hair transplant risks associated with the lower end of the pricing spectrum.

The Major Red Flags to Avoid in Turkey

The primary danger in Turkish medical tourism is the promise of “too-good-to-be-true” deals that compromise surgical integrity. The most critical red flags Turkey-bound patients must watch for include:

• The Technician Trap: Procedures performed entirely by uncertified technicians rather than licensed surgeons. Always demand doctor verification for extraction and channel creation.
• The “Maximum Graft” Fallacy: Clinics that promise “unlimited” grafts without assessing donor area health, risking permanent thinning or overharvesting.
• Inadequate Post-Operative Care: Poor follow-up support or limited accessibility after surgery can lead to complications and poor results.

Patients should verify surgeon credentials, accreditations, and communication accessibility before booking any medical procedure abroad.

Conclusion: The Informed Path to Hair Restoration

Turkey’s status as the global hub for hair restoration is secure, offering highly competitive hair transplant prices and access to advanced FUE and DHI techniques. For American patients, pursuing medical tourism in Turkey presents an opportunity for significant savings and exceptional outcomes.

Ultimately, the goal is not merely to find the lowest price but to achieve the best possible result. As this analysis demonstrates, clinics such as Este Favor and others on this list succeed by balancing affordability with surgeon expertise and transparent communication. An informed patient who prioritizes credentials, safety protocols, and long-term results over cost alone is best positioned to navigate—and benefit from—the dynamic and rewarding Turkish hair restoration market.

Bluwhale, a decentralized intelligence network building AI on blockchain infrastructure, has raised $10 million in Series A financing led by global financial institutions and blockchain ecosystems. The funding reflects a broader shift in finance as banks that once dismissed crypto now back blockchain-based AI to prepare for a generational wealth transfer that traditional headcount-heavy advisory models cannot scale.

A major investor in the round is UOB Venture Management, a wholly owned subsidiary that conducts direct investment. United Overseas Bank is among the world’s top 100 banks, and recent acquirer of Citi’s consumer banking business. SBI Holdings, Japan’s $74 billion financial infrastructure giant, is already one of Bluwhale’s investors, alongside five of the top 100 blockchains, including Sui, Tezos, Cardano, Arbitrum and Movement Labs.

Additional investors include both traditional and digital asset investors, such as PAID Network, Sublime Ventures, High Cosmos Capital, CMY Ventures, DataSpike, NewHeritage, and the Head of AI at Amazon. Bluwhale said the round was structured as a multi-year institutional partnership program, underscoring that banks plan to build on blockchain networks rather than simply hold exposure to them.

“The investors in this round signal strong commitments from both Web2 and Web3 to a future powered by AI agents delivering financial services across blockchains,” said Han Jin, CEO of Bluwhale. “It’s an incredible time to be in crypto as institutional adoption has reached an all-time high, from ETF investments to launching stablecoins to offering loans backed by digital assets.”

From Skeptics to Builders

For years, many banks characterized crypto as speculative or opaque. Jamie Dimon called Bitcoin a “pet rock.” Bank of America described it as “an untraceable tool for money laundering.”

Today, institutions collectively hold approximately 15% of Bitcoin’s supply, while 86% of professional investors allocate to digital assets, and nearly half of hedge funds have exposure to cryptocurrencies. The shift marks a new phase in institutional participation, with capital moving from passive holdings to AI-enabled blockchain systems that deliver real-time financial services at scale.

Recent market data showcases this transition from holding and trading to building intelligent, decentralized infrastructure:

• $118 billion in spot Bitcoin and Ether ETF inflows in Q3 2025
• BlackRock’s iBIT fund surpassing $86 billion AUM
• $113 billion in Bitcoin held by corporate treasuries

Bluwhale’s model provides a path for institutions to join that transformation through transparent, automated systems.

Building the Infrastructure for AI Agent-Powered Finance

Bluwhale’s Layer 3 network orchestrates decentralized data, storage, and computing across blockchains to power hundreds of AI agents. These agents pair user financial-health scores with personalized services that can recommend assets, manage portfolios, and execute transactions securely on- and off-chain.

The platform has more than 3.6 million users worldwide and hosts an AI-agent marketplace where developers and enterprises launch financial tools for digital-first customers. Funds from the raise will expand this marketplace, strengthen multi-chain interoperability, and support institutional integrations.

The $84 Trillion Catalyst

Over the next 30 years, an estimated $84 trillion wealth transfer from Baby Boomers to Millennials and Gen Z will take place. The number of licensed financial advisors is shrinking, and physical-branch models cannot profitably scale to meet demand.

For younger investors who already self-manage health and wellness through apps and dashboards, financial planning is becoming a similar self-management challenge. Bluwhale’s AI agents are designed to fill that gap, delivering personalized guidance to digital-native investors who expect the speed and accessibility of an app rather than a branch.

“Gen Z expects everything online, 24/7,” Jin added. “They won’t go into branches. They’ll rely on AI agents managing their finances.”

“Our backers, from major banks to blockchain leaders, share our belief that decentralized AI will transform financial services and beyond,” said Jin. “We are building technology that scales financial intelligence securely across chains.”

Bluwhale will host its Token Generation Event (TGE) on Oct. 21, 2025, introducing $BLUAI, the native token powering transactions, governance, and liquidity within its decentralized AI ecosystem.

About Bluwhale

Bluwhale is an AI-powered financial health platform that integrates traditional banking data, alternative income sources, and blockchain-based assets into a unified financial score. Built to modernize financial visibility for a generation underrepresented in legacy systems, Bluwhale bridges traditional and decentralized finance to enable better risk assessment, broader market inclusion, and more personalized financial services. For more information, visit www.bluwhale.com.

Media Contact

Erica Zeidenberg
erica@hottomato.net

Major League Hacking (MLH), the world's largest network of next-gen developers, today announced a three-year, multimillion dollar partnership with Google Cloud’s Gemini to integrate Google’s Gemini models across MLH's network of 4,000+ community chapters, reaching over 1 million developers globally.

The collaboration between MLH and Google Cloud represents a strategic shift in how AI companies approach developer education, targeting tomorrow's software engineers during their formative years. With one in three Computer Science graduates in the U.S. already part of the MLH community, early developer engagement proves crucial for long-term platform adoption.

"This partnership with MLH allows us to reach the next generation of developers when they're forming their foundational skills," said Paige Bailey, director of product management at Google DeepMind. "By integrating Google’s Gemini models into the hands-on learning experiences that MLH provides, we're helping to ensure that tomorrow's software engineers have direct experience with our AI platform."

The collaboration will unfold across three phases over the next three years. Starting immediately in the first phase, Google’s Gemini models will be featured at more than 250 MLH hackathons through dedicated prizes, workshops, and developer resources. Phase two will involve the creation of specialized platforms for amplifying integration of Google’s Gemini models through conferences and custom coding challenges. In the final phase Google’s Gemini models will be embedded into daily programming activities through local chapter meetups and hack nights.

Programming highlights include hands-on workshops, quarterly coding challenges featuring Google’s Gemini models, and a content engine producing educational materials for the broader developer community. MLH is also hosting specialized hands-on training events called the AI roadshow where participants learn practical AI skills and use Google Gemini models. 

Early results demonstrate the strategy's effectiveness. Since launching the "Best Use of Gemini" category at hackathons in March 2025, the use of Google’s Gemini models among student developers has surged. Students have logged over 24,000 impact hours, which are a direct measure of time developers spend building with Google’s Gemini models.

"You can't learn the skills to become a software engineer in a classroom," said Mike Swift, CEO and co-founder of MLH. "Our partnership with Google Cloud recognizes that developers form lasting technology preferences through hands-on experience. Through this collaboration, the largest pipeline of emerging talent in software development can directly access Google’s Gemini models."

As artificial intelligence transforms software development, early exposure to AI platforms during university years increasingly determines which tools developers adopt throughout their careers. MLH's community represents unprecedented diversity in tech education, with nearly 50% identifying as non-male and two-thirds as people of color — significantly more diverse than traditional computer science programs. Members span 93 countries, giving Google’s Gemini models global reach among emerging developers.

The announcement comes as competition intensifies among AI platforms for developer mindshare. Recent MLH data shows Google’s Gemini models experiencing the fastest growth in actual usage among next-gen developers, suggesting hands-on experience drives adoption more effectively than brand awareness alone. Both organizations plan to expand the partnership based on initial results, with potential extensions into graduate programs, coding bootcamps, and professional developer conferences.

About Major League Hacking (MLH)

Major League Hacking (MLH) is building the technical talent pipeline for the modern world. We've built the largest community of early-career developers that now has more than 1 million members who count on us to gain hands-on experience, build their professional networks, and ultimately launch their careers. Through events, fellowships, and software, we collect thousands of data points that we use to help companies like Meta, GitHub, and Adobe identify, train, and hire amazing, diverse technical talent directly from our community. For more information, visit mlh.io.

Media Contact

Kara Silverman
kara@variousand.com

As markets grow more complex and risk-sensitive, businesses increasingly seek partners and platforms to navigate volatility. StartupMafia today presents a curated list of the top 10 trading and financial experts who are mastering the markets to aid firms and professional investors in 2025.

Below are 10 companies whose tools, services or education address critical trading, liquidity, legal or execution challenges:

Regulated United Europe

RUE.ee offers cross-border legal and compliance services, including MiCA licensing and European regulatory support. The firm provides fixed-price legal packages, daily client assistance, and tailor-made compliance frameworks for fintech and crypto projects.

Its key advantage lies in speed and clarity. In a sector where legal services often rely on hourly billing, RUE.ee maintains fast response times and predictable pricing, helping businesses meet regulatory obligations with confidence.

WR Trading

WR Trading is a trading mentorship founded by Andre Witzel and JT Rong. Formerly known as Witzel Trading, the company rebranded to reflect its educational focus. The program helps traders move from beginner to professional through structured coaching and disciplined strategies based on high risk-reward ratios.

WR Trading stands out for its personalized mentorship approach. With a few hours of daily practice, students learn proven trading techniques, risk management, and market psychology to shorten their learning curve and achieve consistent results.

Takeprofit Tech

Takeprofit Tech develops fintech tools and liquidity bridge solutions for platforms such as MetaTrader, TradeLocker, and cTrader. Its flagship products — Takeprofit Bridge and Takeprofit Dealing Desk — are widely used by brokers and liquidity providers to manage order execution and risk since 2013.

Takeprofit Tech differentiates itself through its deep broker expertise. Its technology allows for advanced order routing, pricing control, and real-time analytics, helping financial institutions improve efficiency and transparency.

AIDA

AIDA is an AI-powered Web3 platform that combines a next-generation DEX aggregator with token launch tools. It connects more than 15 blockchain networks in a single interface and includes a non-custodial wallet, advanced trading options, and a developer SDK.

AIDA is more than a trading platform — it is an ecosystem for growth. Through liquidity aggregation, trading competitions, and its MindSharing program, AIDA helps projects build engaged communities and promote real user interaction.

TradingView

TradingView is a global charting platform and social network used by over 100 million traders and investors. It combines market data, analytics, and user insights in one interface, helping users discover opportunities across asset classes.

TradingView stands out for combining professional analytical tools with a collaborative community. Its Supercharts, screeners, and portfolio features have made it the standard tool for both retail and institutional traders seeking transparency and precision.

Contentworks Agency

Contentworks Agency provides financial marketing, content strategy, PR, PPC, social media and reputation services tailored to fintech, forex and prop trading firms. Their in-house financial writers ensure compliance and sector knowledge.

What makes it different is domain specificity: it blends pure marketing skills with deep understanding of financial regulation, market jargon and the needs of trading firms, reducing friction between communications and compliance.

Pocket Option

Pocket Option is a broker platform offering forex, stocks, commodities and cryptocurrencies, with web and mobile versions, demo accounts, social copy trading, and varied deposit/withdrawal options.

Its advantages lie in accessibility: intuitive user interface suitable for beginners, broad asset coverage, copy trading integration, and responsive platform performance that helps both novice and advanced users access markets.

Exolix

Exolix is a non-custodial crypto exchange aggregator that allows users to swap digital assets quickly without registration. It supports both fixed and floating exchange rates and typically processes transactions within minutes.

Exolix is recognized for its simplicity and privacy. Users retain full control of their funds, while the platform aggregates liquidity to deliver fast and competitive conversions across major cryptocurrencies.

Origami Tech

Origami Tech is a low-code platform that automates cryptocurrency trading across major exchanges. It lets users build, test and customize strategies intuitively using ready-made presets from professional traders or their own formula-based logic.

What makes Origami Tech unique is its next-generation project-based architecture. Each trading bot operates in an isolated environment with secure API connections and real-time analytics, giving both retail and institutional users the flexibility to automate strategies safely, while staying in full control.

IQ Option

IQ Option is a global trading platform offering CFDs on forex, stocks, commodities, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. It serves clients in more than 150 countries and combines a user-friendly interface with professional trading tools.

In 2025, IQ Option announced a partnership with United Autosports, McLaren Automotive’s racing partner. The collaboration underscores the brand’s ongoing link between financial technology and world-class performance.

Together, these companies reflect the defining business priorities of 2025: smarter automation, transparent execution, regulatory readiness, and accessible financial education. From liquidity bridges to AI-driven platforms, each organization contributes to a more connected and efficient trading ecosystem.

About StartupMafia

StartupMafia is a Tallinn-based platform that monitors and showcases business innovation across industries. By identifying emerging companies and trends, it helps business leaders stay informed about solutions shaping the future economy. For more information, visit startupmafia.eu.

Media Contact

StartupMafia.eu Press Department
press@startupmafia.eu

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) today praised Ohio Senator Louis Blessing for introducing Ohio Senate Bill 299, landmark legislation that establishes commonsense safety standards for kratom products while banning dangerous synthetic concentrated versions that have no place in the marketplace.

The landmark legislation follows the tragic death of an Ohio father after exposure to a synthetic concentrated 7-OH opioid product. After months of escalating dependence and repeated withdrawals from the concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid product, he was found unresponsive at home, his body overwhelmed by the same lab-made compound that had been marketed to him as a harmless “energy booster.”

“This heartbreaking loss underscores the urgent need for legislation against dangerous concentrated synthetic 7-OH products,” said Dr. C. Michael White, Professor of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Connecticut and scientific advisor to the Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC), an independent consumer board supported by the GKC. “This young father went to a gas station and saw a concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid product promising increased energy and masquerading as a natural product. Unaware of the risks, he tried it and soon found himself trapped in a cycle of severe addiction that drained his family’s savings, destroyed his ability to function, and contributed to his tragic end. It is unconscionable that a compound that stimulates the mu-opioid receptor more potently than morphine is sold openly next to Mentos and Doritos. Senator Blessing should be commended for acting quickly and decisively against concentrated synthetic 7-OH.”

Natural kratom leaves contain more than 50 natural alkaloids that give it unique effects. While its main compound, mitragynine, can weakly and partially stimulate the mu-opioid receptor, it does so 100 times less potently than concentrated synthetic 7-OH. In addition, other natural kratom leaf alkaloids actually block opioid receptors. Animal research suggests that mitragynine may even reduce morphine dependence, in direct contrast to concentrated synthetic 7-OH, which reinforces opioid addiction, underscoring its significant abuse potential. Another big difference seen in animals is that mitragynine does not strongly suppress breathing, even in very high doses, while concentrated synthetic 7-OH does. This risk was underscored by a recent patient who stopped breathing after taking concentrated synthetic 7-OH earlier this year and would have died if not for the rapid use of the opioid receptor blocker naloxone. 

On July 29, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its intent to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-OH as a controlled substance, citing its potency and high risk for addiction. The FDA has made it clear that the target of their recommendation was not natural kratom leaf, recognizing its long history of use both in Southeast Asia and the U.S.

In addition to the FDA’s actions, individual states are considering actions to restrict the sale of concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products. In Florida, Attorney General James Uthmeier announced in August an emergency rule to classify concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products as a Schedule I controlled substance at any level above what would be found in dried natural kratom leaf (0.04% by dried weight). The rule, which took effect immediately, makes it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute any isolated or concentrated form of synthetic 7-OH in the state.

“By passing SB 299, Ohio can follow the science by banning concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioids while keeping natural leaf kratom legal and regulated,” said Dr. White. “That approach protects consumers, prevents abuse, and preserves access to a natural botanical that millions of U.S. residents use as part of their wellness routines.”

SB 299, Ohio, would:

• Ban synthetic or semi-synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and other chemically altered kratom-like compounds created through laboratory synthesis
• Require registration and testing of kratom products sold or distributed in the state;
• Mandate accurate labeling of alkaloid content, including mitragynine and 7-OH levels;
• Prohibit sales to individuals under 18 years old;
• And impose penalties for those who manufacture or sell adulterated or synthetic kratom products.

KCAC urges Ohio to prioritize public safety by passing this legislation that will address the true threat, synthetic concentrated 7-OH, and not punish responsible Ohioans who use natural leaf kratom safely and responsibly.

About Global Kratom Coalition (GKC)

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of kratom consumers, experts, and industry leaders dedicated to protecting access to natural leaf kratom while advancing scientific research, driving consumer education, and developing robust regulations to protect consumers. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org.

About Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC)

Kratom Consumer Advisory Council (KCAC) is an independent board made up of a clinician-scientist and consumers that uses the strongest available evidence to produce position statements that promote evidence-based policy. The KCAC is supported by the Global Kratom Coalition, which advocates for regulations that protect consumers and curb the sale of adulterated or synthetic products falsely marketed as kratom. For more information, visit globalkratomcoalition.org/kcac.

Media Contact

Matthew Lowe
Global Kratom Coalition
info@globalkratomcoalition.org

Dr. C. Michael White
Kratom Consumer Advisory Council
cwhite1@wm.com

In a landmark move for the digital trade-finance industry, XDC Ventures, the investment arm of the XDC Network, has announced the acquisition of Contour Network, the leading blockchain-based platform for digitized letters of credit (LCs). Originally backed by a consortium of global banks including HSBC, Standard Chartered, BNP Paribas, Citi, DBS, ING, Bangkok Bank, and CTBC Bank, Contour's revival under XDC Ventures marks a pivotal step in bridging traditional finance (TradFi) with Web3 innovations.

This acquisition bolsters XDC Network's standing as the premier Layer 1 blockchain for institutional cross-border trade finance and real world asset (RWA) tokenization, positioning it as a trusted Web3 powerhouse for banks, corporates, and regulators worldwide.

"By combining Contour’s global LC consortium with the XDC Network’s hybrid blockchain and Web3 ecosystem, we’re creating the most powerful institutional gateway for tokenized trade-finance and cross-border settlement," said Atul Khekade, co-founder of the XDC Network and XDC Ventures.

XDC Ventures has secured future investment commitments from leading funds to fuel Contour’s geographic expansion and drive adoption among banks and corporates. To scale the consortium while maintaining rigorous regulatory and compliance standards, XDC Ventures is inviting strategic investors with expertise in compliance, risk management, and global trade networks.

“XDC Network’s ecosystem and capabilities will enable us to expand to new markets faster and allow us to continuously innovate and deepen our trade finance product offerings to our clients,” said Parth Mahajan, market development lead for Contour.

The XDC Network’s ecosystem is supported by esteemed partners like SBI Japan, Deutsche Telecom, Circle, and integration with IMDA Singapore’s TradeTrust framework, enhancing institutional confidence.

Next Phase of Stable-Coin Lab and Growth Strategy

XDC Ventures will restructure Contour’s strategy, launching a Stable-Coin Lab to deepen institutional trade-finance integration. The lab will focus on:

• Building pilots with banks and corporates for regulated stable-coin issuance and settlement, offering hands-on experience under frameworks like the Genius Act.
• Leveraging Contour’s infrastructure for pilots that optimize treasury returns and working-capital efficiency.
• Developing functional APIs for stable-coin-based LC settlement, enabling seamless integration into existing systems and reducing processing from days to near real-time.
• Utilizing the XDC Network for enhanced programmability and real-world utility in trade-finance stable-coins.

Ritesh Kakkad, co-founder of XDC Network and XDC Ventures said, "Banks need settlement rails, treasury optimization, and compliance frameworks. We're building all three. We see Contour not only as a trade-finance network but as an enabler of compliant stable-coin use-cases that can deliver new efficiencies and revenue streams for banks and corporates".

XDC Network + Circle USDC Support

Contour will integrate the XDC Network as its settlement and tokenization backbone, enabling faster, lower-cost cross-border transactions. Circle’s recent support for USDC on XDC provides a regulated stable-coin for settlements, efficient on/off-ramps via global partners, and a bridge from LC documentation to real-time digital settlement.

Strengthening the Web3–TradFi Bridge

Contour has already slashed LC processing times from 5–10 days to hours for live trades in commodities and manufacturing. Paired with XDC Network, live since 2019 and a leader in EVM-compatible RWA tokenization, this union creates an institutional-grade platform for compliant tokenized settlements, improved liquidity, and accelerated cross-border trade.

Next Steps

Immediate priorities include establishing the Stable-Coin Lab, launching pilots with consortium members, rolling out API-based LC settlements on XDC, integrating XDC rails with Contour’s Corda workflows, collaborating with U.S., EU, GCC, and Asian regulators under the Genius Act, and expanding via strategic partnerships.

About XDC Ventures

XDC Ventures is the global investment and incubation arm of the XDC Network, dedicated to accelerating trade-finance digitization, RWA tokenization, stable-coin innovation, and capital-market transformation via Web3. For more details, visit www.xvc.tech.

About Contour Network

Contour Network is a Singapore-headquartered digital trade-finance platform that digitizes LCs and cross-border documentation. Backed by a consortium of leading global banks, Contour delivers production-grade solutions for speed, transparency, and trust in international trade. For more information, visit contour.network.

Media Contact

Rachna Baruah
rachna@xinfin.org

XDC Network, a blockchain driving innovation in trade finance, recently achieved a major milestone with the listing of its ETP (ticker: XDCN) on Euronext Amsterdam, celebrated with a bell-ringing ceremony attended by key stakeholders and industry leaders. The milestone was achieved in partnership with 21Shares, a global leader in cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), highlighting their joint mission to connect traditional finance with decentralised networks through innovative investment solutions.

The 21Shares XDC Network ETP, listed on both Euronext Paris and Euronext Amsterdam, offers investors regulated, institutional-grade exposure to the XDC Network, a blockchain designed to revolutionize global trade finance through tokenization and digitization. The ETP, with an ISIN of CH1464217285 is denominated in USD (Euronext Amsterdam) and EUR (Euronext Paris) and is fully collateralized by the underlying XDC assets, securely held in institutional-grade cold storage.

Alistair Byas-Perry, Head of EU Investments Capital Markets at 21Shares, opened the trading day with a gong ceremony at Euronext Amsterdam to mark the launch of the XDC Network ETP (ticker: XDCN).

The XDC Network is gaining traction as a critical infrastructure for trade finance and cross-border payments, compatible with global financial messaging standards like ISO 20022. Strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Deutsche Telekom, SBI Japan, and Archax further strengthen XDC’s role in bridging traditional finance with decentralized ecosystems, opening new opportunities for investors.

“The bell ringing ceremony, held at Euronext’s iconic Amsterdam exchange, symbolizes the growing integration of blockchain-based assets into mainstream financial markets”, said Atul Khekade, co-founder of XDC Network, who was present for the bell ringing ceremony.

For more information about the 21Shares XDC Network ETP, visit www.21shares.com/en-uk/product/xdcn.

About XDC Network

XDC Network is a leading hybrid blockchain designed to revolutionize global trade finance and enterprise solutions. Built for scalability, interoperability, and compliance with ISO 20022 standards, XDC Network enables efficient, secure, and low-cost transactions, bridging traditional and decentralized finance. With a capacity for 2,000 transactions per second and a focus on real-world asset tokenization, XDC empowers businesses and communities worldwide to participate in the digital economy. The network has global partnerships with governments as well as financial institutions like Fidelity via Archax, VERT Capital, Deutsche Telekom, SBI Holdings Japan, among others industry leaders.

For more information, visit xdc.org.

Media Contact

Rachna Baruah
rachna@xinfin.org

REalloys, a rare-earth and advanced materials company currently in the process of merging with Blackboxstocks (NASDAQ: BLBX), today announced that Stephen S. duMont, president of GM Defense, has been named non-executive chairman of the board of directors.

The addition of duMont, a recognized leader in defense and aerospace innovation, brings extensive experience and strategic vision to REalloys as the company accelerates efforts to construct a fully integrated, North American mine-to-magnet supply network amid escalating global competition in critical minerals.

This leadership announcement follows REalloys’ recently executed 10-year, 6.75-million-ton supply agreement with Critical Metals Corp. (NASDAQ: CRML) and a complementary strategic sourcing partnership with St George Mining Limited (ASX: SGQ). These initiatives align with REalloys’ strategy to reduce Western dependence on Chinese processing capacity and strengthen allied industrial autonomy.

A Leader at the Crossroads of Defense and Industry

duMont currently oversees General Motors’ global defense and government division, which develops advanced tactical mobility, electrification, and autonomous systems for defense customers. Under his leadership, GM Defense has delivered several flagship programs, including the U.S. Army’s Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV), the Canadian Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV), and the Suburban Shield – Heavy Duty Armored SUV for the U.S. State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service.

“REalloys stands at the heart of an effort critical to freedom, prosperity, and autonomy across the Western world,” said duMont, non-executive chairman of REalloys. “I have great respect for REalloys’ critical mission and the team’s work to strengthen North-America’s industrial resilience through innovation and partnership. Working with our partners across the North American defense industrial base, REalloys is driving a coordinated effort under Title 50 authorities, to ensure allied defense modernization, and broader U.S.–Canadian defense alignment to reinforce the supply chains that underpin both national and economic security. As I continue to focus on my important mission with General Motors, I’m proud to now also help advance this vital effort at such a pivotal moment for our nation and our trusted allies.”

Before joining General Motors, duMont held senior executive roles with Raytheon Technologies, BAE Systems, and Boeing, and chaired Thales-Raytheon Systems, one of the longest-running U.S.–European defense joint ventures. A decorated U.S. Army veteran, he served as an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter pilot before transitioning to industry.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Norwich University’s Military College, completed graduate work at Harvard Medical School, holds an MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a post-MBA from Villanova University, and pursued executive leadership studies at Stanford University.

A Board Built for Allied Strategy

duMont joins an accomplished board that includes Ambassador David MacNaughton, former Canadian ambassador to the United States and founding president of Palantir Canada, and Brad Wall, former premier of Saskatchewan and now special adviser on policy, trade and industrial competitiveness at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP.

Together, the board’s expertise spans diplomacy, trade, and defense industrial cooperation. Their collective experience supports the frameworks of Title 50 and 10 U.S.C. § 4872, which guide U.S.–Canadian collaboration in national security and critical materials sourcing. This alignment reinforces a unified North American approach to developing allied rare-earth capacity as the U.S. and Canada modernize NORAD, expand interoperability, and advance cross-border defense-industrial integration through initiatives such as the ICE Pact.

Advancing a Western-Controlled Supply Chain

REalloys is progressing plans to create a “no-China nexus” rare-earth network by sourcing raw materials exclusively from allied partners and performing processing, separation, refining, metallization, and magnet manufacturing entirely within North America. The vertically integrated model is designed to provide a reliable, compliant supply of rare-earth materials essential for defense, electric vehicles, and renewable energy industries.

“Stephen’s appointment as chairman is a defining moment for REalloys,” said Lipi Sternheim, founder and chief executive officer of REalloys. “His depth of experience with global defense systems and government relations will strengthen our ability to advance North America’s security and industrial resilience. As global supply chains and strategic alliances are being reshaped, Stephen’s strategic guidance will help position REalloys as a bridge between national defense priorities and the manufacturing capacity that underpins them. His background in the defense industrial base gives him a unique perspective on how secure, allied supply chains can safeguard the national security interests of the United States, Canada, and our global allies.”

Leadership Transition

REalloys also announced that David Argyle has resigned as chief executive officer and director of the Company. Following his departure, Leonard (Lipi) Sternheim, the Company’s founder and former executive chairman, has assumed the role of chief executive officer.

Mr. Sternheim will lead REalloys through its next phase of growth, focusing on scaling its vertically integrated North American rare-earth production platform and advancing its mission to secure the materials vital to Western defense, energy, and technological leadership.

About REalloys

REalloys Inc. (“REA”) is building a North American mine-to-magnet supply chain, uniting upstream resources at Hoidas Lake, midstream processing development through its memorandum of understanding with the Saskatchewan Research Council, and downstream production of advanced alloys and magnet materials in Euclid, Ohio. The Hoidas Lake project boasts a significant Mineral Resource Estimate of 2,153,000 tons of Total Rare Earth Oxides (TREO) in the Measured and Indicated categories, with significant potential upside. The Hoidas Lake deposit is distinguished by its unique combination of both Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs), including Dysprosium, Terbium, Gadolinium, and Erbium, as well as Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs) such as Neodymium, Praseodymium, Cerium, and Lanthanum. Through its previously announced collaboration with the Saskatchewan Research Council, REA aims to establish domestic midstream processing capabilities that complement its Euclid operations and strengthen North America’s independent rare earth supply chain. REA is expanding its Ohio facility’s production capacity and is concurrently de-risking and advancing its HLREE Project. By incorporating additional verified rare earth element sources, toll manufacturing, and expanding the Euclid Facility’s installed manufacturing capacity, REA is positioned to meet U.S. Protected Markets high performance magnet materials, critical metals, and magnets demand on an accelerated timeline. REalloys is also moving forward with its planned merger with Blackboxstocks Inc. (NASDAQ: BLBX), positioning the combined company for accelerated growth in the North American rare earth market.

For more information, go to realloys.com or email info@realloys.com.

About Blackboxstocks

Blackboxstocks Inc. is a financial technology and social media hybrid platform offering real-time proprietary analytics and news for stock and options traders of all levels. Our web-based software employs "predictive technology" enhanced by artificial intelligence to find volatility and unusual market activity that may result in the rapid change in the price of a stock or option. Blackbox continuously scans the NASDAQ, New York Stock Exchange, CBOE, and all other options markets, analyzing over 10,000 stocks and up to 1,500,000 options contracts multiple times per second. We provide our users with a fully interactive social media platform that is integrated into our dashboard, enabling our users to exchange information and ideas quickly and efficiently through a common network. We recently introduced a live audio/screenshare feature that allows our members to broadcast on their own channels to share trade strategies and market insight within the Blackbox community. Blackbox is a SaaS company with a growing base of users that spans over 40 countries. For more information, go to blackboxstocks.com.

Safe Harbor Clause and Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, business strategy and plans, and our objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “expose,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on our current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on us. Future developments affecting us may not be those that we have anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond our control) and other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, (a) those factors described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our filings with the SEC, including our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K and other filings that we make with the SEC from time to time; (b) that the Company and REalloys may be unable to complete the proposed Merger and related transactions because, among other reasons, conditions to the closing of the proposed transaction may not be satisfied or waived; (c) uncertainty as to the timing of completion of the proposed Merger and related transactions; (d) the inability to complete the proposed transaction due to the failure to obtain Company stockholder approval for the proposed Merger and related transactions or the failure to satisfy other conditions to completion of the proposed Merger and related transactions; (e) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Merger Agreement; (f) risks related to disruption of management’s attention from the Company’s ongoing business operations due to the proposed transaction; (g) the effect of the announcement of the proposed transaction on the Company’s relationships with its customers and suppliers, and on its operating results and business generally and (h) the outcome of any legal proceedings to the extent initiated against Company, REalloys or others following the announcement of the proposed transaction, as well as the Company’s and REalloys’ management's response to any of the aforementioned factors. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. These risks and others described under “Risk Factors” in our SEC filings may not be exhaustive.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. We caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and developments in the industry in which we operate may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if our results or operations, financial condition and liquidity, and developments in the industry in which we operate are consistent with the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods.

Disclosure Information

Blackbox uses and intends to continue to use its Investors website at blackboxstocks.com/company-overview as a means of disclosing material nonpublic information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor the Company’s Investors website, in addition to following the Company’s press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts.

Media and Investor Contacts

Blackboxstocks
investors@blackboxstocks.com

PCG Advisory
Jeff Ramson
(646) 863-6893
jramson@pcgadvisory.com

REalloys
Angela Gorman
angela@amwpr.com

Operational Security Solutions (OSS), a premier provider of end-to-end cash management solutions, today announced the expansion of its cryptocurrency service area, further supporting financial institutions and crypto operators with armored cash transport, smart safe integration, and banking compliance solutions tailored to digital asset ecosystems.

While digital assets move online, the crypto ecosystem still depends on physical cash, particularly for deposits, withdrawals, and reconciliation at thousands of cryptocurrency kiosks nationwide. Drawing on more than a decade of experience in highly regulated industries, OSS has brought its proven compliance and security framework to the crypto space, where it has operated successfully for more than a year. The company is now expanding its reach to meet growing demand for secure, compliant cash logistics among Bitcoin ATM operators and financial institutions supporting this rapidly evolving sector.

“Crypto markets are rapidly maturing, but the infrastructure that supports them still requires rigorous security and regulatory alignment,” said Scott Solomon, CEO of OSS. “The OSS service model is more flexible, and therefore suitable, to the unique needs of the crypto banking sector. Our ability to discreetly secure the underlying cash element of crypto and reduce the time to deposit creates a competitive advantage for business owners.”

OSS currently provides secure cash-in-transit (CIT) and smart safe services across multiple U.S. regions, supporting banking partners and high-risk verticals through an unmatched record of reliability with zero losses since inception. The company’s expansion will increase crypto servicing coverage across California and the Mid-Atlantic, with further growth planned in 2026 and beyond as interest in crypto markets continues to expand.

“Extending our footprint in the crypto sector is a natural evolution of that mission. As regulatory expectations evolve, we’re proud to deliver the infrastructure and expertise that make secure, compliant operations possible,” added Solomon. 

OSS’s continued growth in the cryptocurrency sector underscores why the company has repeatedly been recognized for innovation, earning the “Business Solutions Leader” award from the PBC Conference in two of the past three years.

The company’s specialized programs for Bitcoin ATM operators, digital asset custodians, and financial institutions are designed to ensure secure sweeps, verified deposits, and armored courier compliance—helping clients meet state and federal expectations while maintaining operational efficiency.

OSS continues to collaborate closely with its financial institution (FI) partners to ensure cash and digital asset services meet the most stringent security and compliance standards.

Media Contact

Kyle Porter
Virgo PR
oss@virgo-pr.com

6 Seeds Consulting has announced the launch of its Synthetic Research Platform, proprietary technology that helps food and agriculture organizations make faster, evidence-based decisions in today’s rapidly evolving markets.

The new platform uses advanced digital twin technology to create lifelike, data-driven simulations of consumers and stakeholders—realistic “synthetic populations” that mirror how markets evolve in real time. Brands can now test ideas, messages and products instantly and obtain validated insights within hours, not weeks.

Each digital twin is localized to reflect specific markets, behaviors, and cultural contexts. The system can simulate hard-to-reach or niche segments anywhere globally, enabling clients to run parallel market tests across regions where traditional research panels are difficult or slow to field.

“The market is moving faster than traditional research can keep up,” said Andreas Duess, CEO and co-founder of 6 Seeds. “Our synthetic research platform turns weeks of survey fieldwork into hours of evidence, allowing food and agriculture innovators to safely test sensitive topics, model reactions under shifting conditions, and make confident decisions quickly.”

Real-time research for a real-time marketplace

Unlike traditional research methods that depend on static panels, 6 Seeds’ synthetic approach uses live, continuously updated global data streams. The system tracks consumer sentiment, category activity, economic trends, and cultural indicators, ensuring insights always reflect ongoing real-world contexts.

“In food and agriculture, timing is everything,” said Saskia Brussaard, managing partner and co-founder of 6 Seeds. “When your insight cycle matches the speed and complexity of the market, you can make smarter decisions that lead to stronger claims and more successful launches."

Several U.S.-based industry associations and commodity boards are already using the platform to forecast purchase intent, evaluate consumer messaging, and assess the impact of policy communications strategies. 

Methodology and validation

Each digital model is built on verified, real-world data anchored in national statistics, market databases, and client inputs to ensure population-level accuracy. 6 Seeds applies continuous machine-learning validation and maintains strict privacy safeguards, allowing each simulation to evolve as real-world data changes.

Availability

The U.S., Canadian, and European versions of the Synthetic Research Platform are available now, with additional country-level models scheduled for release in the coming months.

About 6 Seeds Consulting

6 Seeds is a food marketing, communications and research agency built for the AI era. The firm combines digital twin research with strategic marketing and public relations expertise to help food and agriculture brands capture sharper insights, stronger visibility and faster results. Headquartered in Toronto with partners worldwide, 6 Seeds works with commodity boards, CPG innovators, growers and agtech pioneers. To learn more, visit 6seedsconsulting.com.

Media Contact

Saskia Brussaard
6 Seeds Consulting
saskia@6seedsconsulting.com

Andreas Duess
6 Seeds Consulting
andreas@6seedsconsulting.com

At the International Dairy Federation (IDF) World Dairy Summit 2025 held on October 20, Feihe, China’s leading infant formula producer, took the stage as the only Chinese enterprise invited to deliver a keynote speech. Chairman Leng Youbin presented Feihe’s “Symbiosis Model,” a development framework built over 63 years, which aligns with strategies seen in other globally recognized Chinese companies such as Huawei and BYD.

He articulated a vision of industrial “symbiosis” that spans the entire value chain—from land to consumer—ensuring resilience, safety, and sustainability.

Feihe Chairman Leng Youbin delivers a keynote speech at the International Dairy Federation (IDF) World Dairy Summit in Santiago, Chile, on October 20, 2025.

“Today, our industry faces the dual challenge of pursuing growth while advancing sustainability,” Leng stated. “No single company or country can solve this alone—only through genuine collaboration and symbiotic partnerships can we shape what comes next.”

He outlined a three-part commitment to this philosophy of symbiosis:

1. Symbiosis with industrial foundations: Building a resilient, integrated supply chain.
2. Symbiosis with global knowledge networks: Advancing science and innovation through open collaboration.
3. Symbiosis with the future environment: Committing to long-term green development.

Symbiosis in Action: A Shared Strategy Among Chinese Champions

Feihe’s approach of symbiosis reflects a pattern seen in other major Chinese firms that have achieved global prominence: deep, vertical integration and a long-term commitment to controlling core parts of the supply chain.

The company began building its own ranches and farms over two decades ago—long before it expanded its sales network. Today, Feihe operates 13 company-owned ranches, 13 modern production plants, over 1 million mu of dedicated farmland, and cares for more than 115,000 dairy cows. This integrated system allows Feihe to oversee the entire process—from feed cultivation and animal husbandry to production and recycling—creating what Leng termed a “closed-loop, symbiotic ecosystem.” This strategic foundation supported Feihe’s rise to become the top-selling infant formula brand in China and later, the world.

Similarly, in the EV sector, BYD produces its own batteries, chips, and motors, allowing it to maintain production and expand globally even during supply shortages. In tech, Huawei invests heavily in everything from chips and operating systems to network infrastructure to maintain technological self-reliance and ecosystem cohesion.

More Than a Supply Chain—A Symbiotic Circular System

Within Feihe’s system, waste is minimized and resources continually reused. Farm by-products become organic fertilizer, feed supports the herds, and milk meets quality standards that Chairman Leng noted are “20 times stricter than EU benchmarks for total bacteria count.”

This level of control has enabled Feihe to ensure safety and stable supply even during periods of international disruption. It has also supported the company’s global expansion—including receiving Canada’s first infant formula production license issued to a foreign firm and tailoring products for consumers in Southeast Asia.

Global Knowledge Symbiosis: Partnerships Driving Innovation

In addition to full-chain management, Feihe has built research collaborations with more than 20 institutions across seven countries—including Harvard University—to advance breast milk science and infant nutrition.

This knowledge symbiosis complements the company’s full-chain operational model and reinforces its capacity for foundational and applied research.

Environmental Symbiosis: Green Development as a Core Value

Environmentally, the company has established China’s largest ecological recycling system in Heilongjiang, China. By converting farming waste into organic fertilizer, the project cuts carbon emissions by nearly 400,000 tons annually—equal to planting more than 20 million trees—an environmental symbiosis model recognized by the United Nations as replicable.

A Shared Vision for a Resilient Global Industry

Feihe’s journey—from a national leader to a global voice—demonstrates how symbiotic integration across processes, knowledge, and ecosystems can build trust and resilience on a worldwide scale.

As Chinese companies like Feihe, BYD, and Huawei each show in their sectors, symbiotic strategy does not just solve local challenges—it creates solutions that can be shared, inspiring a more secure and sustainable future for industries around the world.

About Feihe

Feihe is a leading Chinese dairy company with a fully integrated supply chain, from its own pastures to production. Its infant formula products are available through an extensive nationwide network in China and are also sold in Canada and Southeast Asia. Learn more at www.feihe.com.

Several leading technology firms are ramping up recruitment across their channel and platform divisions this October, signalling continued strength in infrastructure and DevOps hiring. Cloudflare, MongoDB, and AVI-SPL are among the companies expanding their technical and partner-facing teams as the market for skilled engineers tightens once again.

The shortage of experienced engineers is no longer a problem limited to traditional tech vendors. For anyone tracking how talent shortages are shaping both traditional and emerging digital sectors, what you need to know is that online casino platforms are investing heavily in top-tier engineers, competing directly with fintech and cloud companies to secure talent for their global iGaming infrastructure.

Cloudflare is recruiting senior partner solutions engineers and principal partner specialists to help them expand their partner ecosystem. The firm is still expanding its network services and cybersecurity offer, and the positions are aimed to relate the technical architecture with the commercial implementation. The vacant positions at MongoDB are platform engineers and principal partner specialists whose responsibilities are to design and operate scalable data infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of DevOps.

AVI-SPL and DXC Technology also have listings of technical support engineers, channel account managers and business development. Their job descriptions emphasize the fact that the contemporary IT channel has been fully assimilated, so applicants need to be able to interpret complex systems and the business associations that ensure that the systems remain profitable.

The similarity between these postings is a concern about reliability. The employers are in search of engineers who can construct and operate platforms that work 24 hours. This competition is carried to salaries, where the experienced candidates frequently have several offers from other companies that define infrastructure stability as the business critical investment but not as the operational specificity.

Platform engineering that was once a niche specialization is the center of this wave of hiring. Such teams create the internal structures on which the development groups can roll the software more rapidly, automate testing, and track system health. They influence their work in terms of uptime guarantees to cybersecurity compliance. Experienced engineers in the field of high-availability architecture, cloud orchestration and continuous integration are especially sought after.

The trend towards the consolidation of DevOps and partner engineering teams is increasing as digital operations become more complicated. This change points to a wider trend: infrastructure professionals can no longer be limited to maintenance in the back-end. Their professional knowledge has been instrumental in determining how organizations have to provide services, partner with others, and respond to outages or cyber-attacks in real-time.

Interestingly this same dynamic is beginning to appear outside the classic tech sector. Online casinos and gaming networks are expanding their network to be able to accommodate larger traffic rates and be able to meet the requirements of the regional regulations. In order to do this, they are offering employment to a large number of the same engineers that are being sought after by large SaaS and platform vendors. The overlap in technical requirements, secure cloud deployment, real-time transaction processing, and continuous uptime, means the competition for talent extends well beyond Silicon Valley.

The convergence of these hiring needs illustrates a broader shift in digital operations. Whether a company processes millions of financial transactions or millions of gameplay interactions, the technical backbone remains the same. Reliable systems are now as important to online entertainment as they are to enterprise technology. That reality has pushed gambling operators, payment firms, and data analytics companies into direct competition for a limited pool of infrastructure specialists.

According to recruiters, the focus on resilience, automation, and compliance has ensured that lines are crossed in the industry. An engineer who was employed to operate the workloads in a software vendor can implement the same concepts in the controlled gaming or fintech settings. The attractiveness of such cross-industry positions can be seen in the manner in which job descriptions are currently being posted with more emphasis on both scale and mission- keeping the services fast, safe and never going down.

The activity in the hiring process, October demonstrates one definite conclusion: platform and infrastructure engineers are still one of the most demanded specialists in technology. Cloudflare and MongoDB still dominate in terms of volume, but firms not directly linked to the tech ecosystem are quickly gaining on them. The data center and SaaS provider race has been expanded to include industries that rely on digital stability over profit margins.

The boom highlights a common business fact in all industries. Regardless of the need to sustain global content delivery chains, or control regulated game infrastructure, reliability is no longer an accomplishment in the technical sense, but it has become a competitive advantage.