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Businesses continue to seek services that reduce complexity, improve efficiency, and support growth across transport, travel, healthcare, and infrastructure. StartupMafia has selected a list of companies offering practical solutions that address these needs with clear value and operational reliability.

8Rental

8Rental provides professional group transportation services, offering private cars, minibuses, and coaches for corporate travel, tourism, and long-distance routes. The company operates across major travel regions and focuses on structured service delivery for airport transfers, event mobility, and tailored itineraries.

It stands out for its emphasis on safety, punctuality, and transparent pricing. Its fleet is modern and well-maintained, and drivers undergo professional training. This combination of customer-first practices and operational reliability makes 8Rental a trusted mobility provider for both businesses and individual travelers.

Rent From Locals

Rent From Locals brings verified Albanian and Greek car-rental providers into one platform where travelers compare real pricing, deposits, and insurance before booking. The system standardizes check-in and check-out with guided, time-stamped photo uploads to protect both renters and providers.

Its distinguishing features include no credit card requirement, transparent third-party insurance options, and an AI-supported help desk that answers routine questions instantly. Human agents remain available for complex requests. This design keeps the experience simple, fast, and aligned with what modern travelers expect.

12 Knots

12 Knots provides access to more than 22,000 professionally managed yachts and catamarans available for charter across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Southeast Asia. Travelers can compare prices, real-time availability, and choose from bareboat, skippered, or fully crewed options.

By-the-cabin charters are available for newcomers, while private charters accommodate experienced sailors. The platform also offers sample itineraries and expert guidance to help make planning a sailing holiday smooth, trustworthy, and inspiring.

BookingAuto

BookingAuto is a global platform that compares car-rental offers from leading providers in 186 countries. Travelers can filter vehicle types, review clear pricing, and reserve online with free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.

The service stands out for 24/7 multilingual support and simple booking flows designed to minimize uncertainty. Its international scope allows users to access consistent information across regions, which helps travelers avoid hidden charges and secure rentals based on transparent criteria.

Excurzilla

Excurzilla aggregates guided tours, museum tickets, and attraction experiences from major operators in more than 120 countries. Its multilingual interface allows travelers to compare tour formats, durations, and prices in a single place.

The platform’s value lies in its broad inventory and consistent presentation of options. Users can switch between cities and categories without navigating multiple provider websites. This meta-search approach brings clarity to a fragmented tours market and simplifies the process of selecting reliable local experiences.

OKDERMO

OKDERMO is an online retailer specializing in dermatologist-approved skincare, including retinoids, peels, and targeted serums. It sources professional-grade formulations globally and provides clear guidance to support informed use.

The store distinguishes itself by curating evidence-based products and offering worldwide shipping. Its catalog includes multiple strengths and formats of retinol and tretinoin creams, enabling customers to select treatments suited to their routines. The focus on transparency and ingredient quality helps users build consistent, results-driven skincare plans.

You Glow Aesthetics

You Glow Aesthetics operates a fast-growing network of clinics across Canada and the United States, offering non-invasive aesthetic treatments supported by modern equipment. Each location focuses on safety, standardized protocols, and personalized care planning.

The network’s strength is its combination of geographic scale and individualized service. Trained clinicians conduct assessments and tailor treatments while ensuring consistent outcomes across all locations. This balance of technology, accessibility, and clinical oversight positions the brand as a notable provider in the aesthetics sector.

Ingrained Recovery

Ingrained Recovery provides medical detox and inpatient rehabilitation programs on a 50-acre wooded campus in Middle Georgia. The facility incorporates equine therapy, walking trails, and on-site amenities designed to support recovery in a private, structured environment.

Its distinguishing feature is the integration of therapeutic activities within a peaceful natural setting. The center’s multidisciplinary team combines medical oversight with experiential therapy, offering a holistic approach that appeals to clients seeking privacy and individualized care.

BelimRohr24

BelimRohr24 provides same-day drain and pipe cleaning services across Berlin, operating 24/7 with certified technicians. The company handles blocked sinks, toilets, and sewer lines with rapid response times and straightforward service terms.

Its competitive edge lies in transparency and speed. With more than 12 years of experience, the team offers two-hour response windows and clear pricing with no hidden fees. Regular maintenance options further reduce the risk of future plumbing issues for households and businesses.

WasteDoor.com

WasteDoor.com is an international marketplace for residential and commercial waste-management services across North America, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. It compares pricing for dumpsters, construction debris removal, e-waste recycling, septic pumping, portable restrooms, and more.

The platform distinguishes itself by combining instant price comparison with region-specific regulatory guides. This helps customers reduce service costs and ensure compliance with local rules. Its data-driven approach supports informed decision-making in a sector that often lacks transparency.

These 10 companies reflect key business priorities for 2025: operational clarity, transparent pricing, and service models that simplify complex tasks. Their solutions show how technology and customer-centered design continue to shape mobility, travel, healthcare, and infrastructure. Together, they illustrate how companies across diverse sectors are meeting rising expectations for reliability and efficiency.

About StartupMafia

StartupMafia is a technology-focused media outlet covering emerging companies, market trends, and innovations shaping the global startup landscape. The publication highlights practical solutions, sector insights, and business developments relevant to founders, operators, and investors. For more information, visit startupmafia.eu.

Media Contact

StartupMafia.eu Press Department
press@startupmafia.eu

Seed Group, a company of The Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, formed a strategic partnership with RetailNext to expand enterprise-grade retail analytics and AI-powered insights throughout Dubai and the UAE. This collaboration addresses the need for data-driven strategies as UAE retailers navigate rapid digital transformation, evolving consumer expectations, and increasingly competitive omnichannel environments.

Founded in 2008 in California, RetailNext is a global leader in retail intelligence and a pioneer in retail analytics. Today, it powers more than 560 retailers from all over the world with a unified intelligence platform. RetailNext’s cloud system combines in-store traffic analytics, shopper journey mapping, and point-of-sale integration to process data from across more than 100,000 sensors. These real-time insights increase conversion rates, optimise labour allocation, and drive measurable improvements in merchandising effectiveness and customer experience.

By being part of Seed Group’s partner ecosystem, RetailNext will benefit from its two decades of expertise, regional network, and ties with the royal family of Dubai. The Group provides the innovative firm a launchpad to amplify its positioning in the fast-evolving retail market valued at over AED 300 billion.

“RetailNext brings with it solutions that add new depth to how retailers understand and serve their customers. With its ability to monitor real-time traffic, measure shopper journeys, and optimize in-store layouts, the company offers insights that can directly improve efficiency and profitability for businesses. We believe their technology has the potential to support businesses in the UAE as they work to enhance efficiency and better meet evolving customer expectations,” remarked Hisham Al Gurg, CEO of Seed Group and The Private Office of Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum.

“The UAE represents one of the world’s most dynamic retail markets, where sophisticated consumers demand world-class experiences. Our partnership with Seed Group enables us to further expand our proven retail intelligence to a region that’s rapidly becoming a hub for retail innovation. UAE retailers understand that in today’s competitive environment, intuition alone isn’t enough — data-driven decision-making is the difference between market leadership and irrelevance,” said Alexei Agratchev, CEO and co-founder of RetailNext. 

The strategic engagement between Seed Group and RetailNext is designed to pave the way for more intelligent and customer-centric business models. It will further reinforce the UAE’s prominence as a capital of modern retail while supporting broader industry innovation in the MENA region.

About Seed Group

For over 20 years, Seed Group has formed strategic alliances with leading global companies representing diverse regions and industries. These companies have propelled their business interests and goals in the Middle East and North Africa region through the support and strong base of regional connections of the Seed Group. The Group’s goal is to create mutually beneficial partnerships with multinational organisations and to accelerate their sustainable market entry and presence within the MENA region. Seed Group has been a key point in the success of all its partners in the region, helping them reach their target customers and accelerate their businesses. The Private Office was established by Sheikh Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum to directly invest in or assist potential business opportunities in the region, which meet The Private Office’s criteria. For more information, visit seedgroup.com.

About RetailNext

RetailNext, the first retail vertical IoT platform to bring e-commerce-style shopper analytics to brick-and-mortar stores, brands, and malls, is a pioneer in optimizing the shopper experience. The platform automatically collects and analyses shopper behaviour data through its centralized SaaS solution, enabling retailers to enhance real-time experiences and drive better outcomes.

RetailNext is trusted by more than 560 retailers in over 100 countries. The company helps businesses better understand the shopper journey to increase same-store sales, enhance security, and eliminate unnecessary costs. RetailNext is headquartered in Campbell, California. Learn more at retailnext.net.

For decades, women's health apparel has existed in the margins of both the fashion and healthcare industries. Functional in intent, but often uninspired in execution. Now, as femtech gains momentum, one innovator is reshaping expectations of what post-surgery garments can and should deliver. MAS Femography, the women's health apparel manufacturer backed by global apparel-tech giant MAS Holdings, is setting new standards with its Post Surgery Everyday Bra, designed and manufactured for brands looking to offer better products to women navigating life after breast cancer surgery.

A Silent Gap in Care

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 2.3 million women are diagnosed annually, with millions more living in survivorship. For those who undergo mastectomies, lumpectomies, or reconstructive procedures, recovery is about more than the clinical outcome. It is about rediscovering comfort, mobility, and identity at a time when physical and emotional vulnerability is at its peak.

Historically, apparel designed for this stage has been limited in its options. Garments that served basic medical functions without addressing the lived experiences of patients. Many women describe post-surgery bras as restrictive, unappealing, or even painful.

MAS Femography's new approach as a femtech apparel manufacturer directly responds to this gap. The Post Surgery Everyday Bra is not only built for recovery but designed with comfort  in mind. By integrating medical insight with advanced apparel engineering, MAS Femography is taking this innovation to brands, aiming to ensure that women no longer have to choose between healing and feeling human.

Design Rooted in Empathy

At the heart of the innovation is collaboration. MAS Femography worked closely with breast cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, and mastectomy specialists to understand the day-to-day challenges women face during recovery. Their feedback shaped every element of the bra's design.

The result is a garment that features soft seams to reduce irritation, wire-free support to prevent pressure on sensitive areas, and front-opening closures that accommodate limited arm mobility. Built with molded bra cups, it masks uneven breasts or asymmetries caused by breast conservation surgeries to provide a more natural appearance. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics promote comfort during long wear, while discreet inner pockets allow for prosthetics or inserts, offering flexibility for women with different surgical outcomes.

Unlike traditional medical garments, the Post Surgery Everyday Bra prioritizes aesthetic as well as function. Subtle design elements and carefully chosen fabrics ensure the bra looks and feels like a piece of everyday apparel, rather than a clinical necessity. For women navigating recovery, this blending of style and sensitivity can be a critical step toward regaining confidence.

Beyond Function: Restoring Confidence

Breast cancer treatment often involves profound changes to body image. For many women, the choice of clothing, especially intimate apparel, becomes a reflection of how they feel about themselves. Recognizing this, MAS Femography positions its Post Surgery Everyday Bra not simply as a supportive product but as an enabler of dignity, self-expression, and confidence.

"The vision is simple but powerful," Pilar Diaz, CEO of MAS Femography explains. "Women deserve post-surgery solutions that are supportive, comfortable, and beautiful. Recovery is not just about healing, it is about regaining a sense of self. Working with subject specialists, design experts, and professionals, we are driving the conversation openly with global brands, offering them our vast experience in manufacturing and cutting-edge innovation as we ensure survivors are met with functional solutions without overlooking such unheard, unseen issues"

This philosophy aligns with MAS Femography's broader mission as a manufacturer: to redefine how apparel can support women through every stage of life, from periods and pregnancy to menopause and post-surgery. In doing so, the brand is helping to destigmatize conversations around women's health while expanding the possibilities of what clothing can achieve.

The Power of FemTech Apparel

MAS Femography is not working in isolation. Backed by MAS Holdings, the largest apparel tech company in South Asia, the manufacturer has access to a global scale of resources, advanced textile technologies, and sustainable manufacturing processes. This infrastructure allows MAS Femography to translate concepts born in healthcare collaboration into scalable, accessible products that can reach women worldwide.

The Post Surgery Everyday Bra represents what industry analysts are increasingly calling femtech apparel. Garments that integrate scientific research, medical collaboration, and design innovation to address underserved areas of women's health. From cooling fabrics for menopause to leak-proof menstrual underwear, femtech apparel is forecast to become one of the fastest-growing niches in both fashion and healthcare.

A Future Where Apparel Supports Health 

With the Post Surgery Everyday Bra, MAS Femography signals that breast cancer survivors deserve more than the compromises historically offered to them. By uniting clinical functionality with thoughtful design, the manufacturer is establishing a benchmark that could influence the wider industry.

The bra represents more than a single product. It reflects a changing philosophy in apparel — one that acknowledges clothing is not only worn but lived in, especially during moments of vulnerability.

As MAS Femography expands its role in femtech manufacturing, it is helping to shape a future where women's health apparel is no longer an afterthought but a recognized pillar of care, recovery, and empowerment.

For the millions of women navigating breast cancer surgery and its aftermath, that shift has the power to redefine not only comfort but also confidence. By turning garments into instruments of care, MAS Femography is steadily reshaping the standards of both fashion and healthcare, one innovation at a time.

Branded By Story™, the South Carolina–based storytelling studio redefining how trust is built between communities and the businesses that serve them, has been awarded both the BBB Business of the Year and the BBB Torch Award for Ethics by BBB Serving South Carolina. The recognition honors the studio’s unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and its industry-shifting Billion-Dollar Framework™ — a system designed to help local businesses rise as the undisputed leaders of their towns.

Founded by Justus Calkins, founder and brand strategist, Austin Barnhill, creative director and partner, and supported by Scarlett, director of digital experience and partner, Branded By Story has quickly emerged as one of the most trusted branding studios in the Southeast.

A New Category for Modern Businesses: The Billion-Dollar Framework

Branded By Story created its own category, a cinematic storytelling studio built on five core engines:

• Signature Production System™ — 28 deliverables in 4 weeks
• Community-Approved™ Model — One business per industry per town
• Regional Lifestyle Storytelling™ — Story over sales
• Brand Story Capital™ — Proof over promise
• Media & Thought Leadership Engine™ — Building local icons

A Family-Rooted Mission That Fuels the Framework

“We wanted to prove that business can still be built on trust, not tactics.”

“When we started Branded By Story, we didn’t want to be another marketing company. We wanted to prove that business can still be built on trust, not tactics."

“We’re honored to shine a light on ethical businesses.”

“It’s an honor to win the Torch Award for Ethics."

“At Branded By Story, we don’t just build brands. We build belief in people, in community, and in the idea that truth still matters."

About Branded By Story

Branded By Story™ is a luxury storytelling studio based in Charleston and Seneca, South Carolina. Through its Billion-Dollar Framework™, the studio helps trustworthy businesses rise as the definitive leaders of their market through cinematic brand films, high-end identity systems, and community-driven storytelling. For more information, visit www.brandedbystory.com.

Media Contact

Justus Calkins
Branded By Story
justus@brandedbystory.com
+1 832-530-2479

Media Relations
Branded By Story
buildmybrand@brandedbystory.com

In an environment where "no-logs" has become a baseline marketing promise, SafePaper’s 2025 audit examines whether ten major VPN providers — both free and paid — actually uphold privacy under legal scrutiny. The report evaluates each service across jurisdiction, audit history, infrastructure design, transparency reporting, and privacy policy specificity to determine real-world no-logs compliance.

Read the full audit and VPN-by-VPN breakdown on SafePaper: "Decipher 10 No-Logs VPNs Policies & Practices (Free & Paid)"

What “No-Logs” Really Means in 2025

For something so widely claimed, “no-logs” remains widely misunderstood. At its core, the term suggests that a VPN provider does not record or store any data that could identify what a user did online, or when, or from where. But in reality, not all logs are equal — and not all “no-logs” claims mean the same thing.

VPNs inevitably collect some information to operate. This might include aggregate server load, bandwidth usage, or crash diagnostics. These are functional, non-identifiable metrics. The concern arises when providers store real IP addresses or DNS querie. Those are identifiers — and they’re exactly what a true no-logs VPN must avoid retaining.

In today’s climate of subpoenas, data-sharing alliances, and court-mandated compliance, understanding what “no-logs” actually entails is the first step. The second is knowing how to verify it — something the next section breaks down in five testable criteria.

The Five Criteria for Verifying a No-Logs VPN

Marketing slogans are easy to write. Verifiable privacy is not. To move beyond blanket claims, SafePaper’s 2025 audit evaluates each VPN against five independent dimensions. Together, they form a framework that any user can use to assess whether a provider’s “no-logs” promise is structurally sound — or built on ambiguity.

1. Jurisdiction: The legal layer that overrides everything

Where a VPN is incorporated matters as much as how it’s built. Countries that are part of intelligence-sharing agreements — such as the Five Eyes (U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, New Zealand) — may compel providers to collect and disclose user data, often under gag orders. By contrast, countries like Panama, Switzerland, and Singapore offer legal environments that make user data requests less likely and easier to resist.

A VPN headquartered in a high-risk jurisdiction cannot guarantee user privacy, regardless of its infrastructure. In several cases, SafePaper notes, providers located in the U.S. or EU have complied with subpoenas despite advertising no-logs policies.

2. Infrastructure: RAM-only servers and private DNS

Legal resilience is one half of the equation; infrastructure is the other. RAM-only servers — those that store all data in volatile memory — are wiped clean with every reboot. This minimizes the chance that session data lingers or can be forensically recovered. Similarly, running private DNS resolvers prevents DNS queries from leaking to third parties like ISPs or public DNS services.

SafePaper flags providers who still rely on disk-based servers or use third-party DNS resolvers as structurally weaker — even if their privacy policies claim otherwise.

3. Third-party audits: Proof, not promises

Independent audits conducted by firms like Deloitte, Cure53, or KPMG provide external validation of a VPN provider’s systems. These audits often examine backend logging systems, access controls, and whether servers are configured to retain any identifying data. While one audit is useful, recurring audits over multiple years show ongoing accountability.

4. Transparency reporting: A record of resistance

Transparency reports document how often providers receive data requests from authorities and whether they comply. Providers that routinely publish these reports — and maintain a record of zero user data disclosures — demonstrate both legal resolve and technical safeguards.

Conversely, the absence of a report may signal that a provider is unable or unwilling to show its record of resistance.

5. Privacy policy specificity: Clarity vs. convenience

A “we log nothing” policy may sound reassuring, but it’s often too vague to be meaningful. The most credible providers break down exactly what data they collect, why, and under what technical or legal conditions. Policies that explicitly state what is not logged — such as IP addresses, DNS queries, session metadata — offer more confidence than blanket statements or legalese.

SafePaper’s audit highlights that overly generic or overly absolute privacy policies often mask exceptions — and that fine print matters.

Paid VPNs: More Expensive, Not Always More Secure

When it comes to premium VPNs, many users assume that paying for a service guarantees superior privacy. However, SafePaper’s 2025 audit uncovers a nuanced truth: while some premium providers have impressive technical measures, their legal vulnerabilities — especially in certain jurisdictions — can compromise their no-logs claims.

If you're hesitant to commit to a long-term subscription but still want strong privacy protection, consider monthly VPN plans that offer flexibility without compromising on security.

NordVPN, ExpressVPN: Strong Privacy, Stronger Jurisdiction

Premium VPNs like NordVPN, and ExpressVPN generally receive high marks for their privacy infrastructure. Both of them have implemented cutting-edge technologies like RAM-only servers and private DNS systems, which drastically reduce the risk of data retention.

NordVPN

Based in Panama, which has no mandatory data retention laws and is not part of the Five Eyes alliance. This provides a safer legal framework, making NordVPN one of the most secure options in SafePaper’s audit. 

ExpressVPN

Based in the British Virgin Islands, also benefits from a strong privacy jurisdiction. Both providers regularly update their transparency reports and undergo frequent third-party audits, confirming their commitment to a no-logs policy.

Mullvad, Norton and IPVanish: Legal Exposure Overrides Technology

While all three VPNs: Mullvad, Norton, and IPVanish — boast strong technical features, they share a common vulnerability: their location in jurisdictions with high data retention obligations.

Mullvad

Despite being one of the most privacy-conscious providers with RAM-only servers and a clear no-logs policy, is based in Sweden, a member of the 14 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. This poses a potential risk because Swedish authorities could, in theory, demand data from Mullvad under the alliance’s surveillance agreements. In 2023, Mullvad’s infrastructure was put to the test during a police raid, and it was confirmed that no user data was found. While this proves the effectiveness of its no-logs systems, Sweden's jurisdiction remains a risk for privacy-focused users.

Norton and IPVanish

Both headquartered in the U.S. (a member of the Five Eyes), face a more immediate risk. The U.S. government can legally compel these providers to collect and hand over user data. Norton, though it employs RAM-only servers, still operates under U.S. jurisdiction, which inherently introduces a level of exposure. Similarly, IPVanish faced a significant breach of trust in 2016, when it was revealed that the VPN provider had provided connection logs to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security during a criminal investigation. While IPVanish has since implemented RAM-only servers and continues to improve its security, this past incident remains a critical cautionary tale.

Free VPNs: When Legal Foundations Beat Marketing

The general belief is that "free" VPNs come with hidden risks, often tied to data collection or selling user information. While some free providers rely on advertising revenue or data sales to sustain their service, SafePaper’s 2025 audit finds that reliable free VPNs can still offer robust privacy protection — when backed by a solid legal foundation and strong technical implementation.

ProtonVPN, Hide.me, and X-VPN: Strong Legal Foundations, Effective Tech

Among the free VPNs analyzed, ProtonVPN, Hide.me, and X-VPN stand out as exceptions to the general rule. These services may not charge a fee, but their privacy practices are built on rock-solid legal and technical foundations.

ProtonVPN

Based in Switzerland, a country known for its strong privacy laws, operates without mandatory data retention requirements. SafePaper’s audit confirms that ProtonVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, while also undergoing annual third-party audits for transparency. Despite not using RAM-only servers, ProtonVPN’s fully encrypted disk storage offers an alternative safeguard, ensuring that no logs are retained after use.

Hide.me

Based in Malaysia, another non-member of intelligence-sharing alliances, employs RAM-only servers across its entire network. With a track record of publishing transparency reports since 2013, Hide.me has demonstrated its commitment to no-logs privacy. While Malaysia’s privacy laws are less well-known compared to Switzerland’s, the lack of data retention requirements gives Hide.me a stronger legal standing than many other free providers.

X-VPN

Headquartered in Singapore, also benefits from a favorable legal environment, operating outside the reach of Five Eyes or similar alliances. X-VPN uses RAM-only servers and private DNS, offering the same technical protections as its paid counterparts. It also maintains a history of transparency reports dating back to 2017, proving its accountability over time. Although it is still undergoing its first third-party audit, SafePaper’s review indicates that X-VPN’s commitment to privacy is credible.

TunnelBear and Windscribe: Solid Tech, Risky Jurisdictions

Not all free VPNs can claim the same level of privacy protection. TunnelBear and Windscribe, both based in Canada (a Five Eyes member), face a much higher level of legal risk despite implementing solid technical measures like private DNS servers and RAM-only architecture.

TunnelBear

Acquired by McAfee in 2018, has long been known for its strong security features. However, its Canadian headquarters places it within the Five Eyes jurisdiction, subjecting it to legal requests for data. Although it has passed several independent audits for app security, its lack of transparency regarding no-logs compliance raises concerns for users prioritizing jurisdictional safety.

Windscribe

Another free provider with strong technical capabilities, including RAM-only servers and private DNS resolvers. However, it operates out of Canada, which means it is vulnerable to legal requests from government agencies. Windscribe does regularly publish transparency reports, but its jurisdictional risk remains a concern.

Takeaways for Users: How to Vet a VPN Yourself

After reviewing 10 leading VPNs through the lens of five key criteria, SafePaper’s 2025 audit provides essential insights into what users should prioritize when selecting a VPN. Whether you’re paying for a premium service or opting for a free VPN, these three core questions can help you assess a provider’s true commitment to privacy:

1. Where is the VPN based?

Jurisdiction is the single most important factor when it comes to privacy. If a VPN is based in a country that is part of an intelligence-sharing alliance (like the Five Eyes), it is subject to laws that could force it to collect and share user data with authorities. Look for VPNs headquartered in countries with no mandatory data retention laws and those outside surveillance alliances — such as Panama, the British Virgin Islands, Singapore and Switzerland. These jurisdictions offer the best legal protections for user privacy.

2. What technical measures does the VPN implement?

The right infrastructure can make a significant difference. VPNs that use RAM-only servers ensure that no data is stored long-term, reducing the risk of logs being accessed. Private DNS servers further protect against leaks, preventing your browsing behavior from being exposed to third-party entities. Ensure the provider uses strong encryption, regular server audits, and has transparent privacy policies that are easy to understand.

3. Has the VPN been independently audited?

A third-party audit is one of the most reliable ways to verify a VPN’s no-logs claims. These audits examine the provider’s backend systems and security infrastructure to confirm that they’re following their public privacy policies. It’s a good sign if the VPN has undergone regular audits over multiple years. If a VPN hasn’t been audited, or only conducted an audit once with no follow-up, that should raise a red flag.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Settle for Promises — Demand Proof

In 2025, privacy demands proof — not promises. The VPN industry is flooded with marketing slogans and vague claims, but real privacy protection requires more than flashy ads. For users who prioritize privacy, it’s not enough to simply trust a VPN’s claim of “no-logs.” Demand the evidence, and make your choice accordingly.

About SafePaper

SafePaper is an independent digital privacy publication based in the U.S., focused on trustworthy, no-fluff guides for everyday internet users. Its team of researchers manually tests VPNs, browsers, and privacy tools to help users stay safe, stay informed, stay free. To learn more, visit safepaper.io.

Media Contact

Paige West
support@safepaper.io

Tough Leaf, a leader in subcontractor sourcing and certified-vendor compliance, today announced the launch of ClearSource, a new platform that simplifies how general contractors find, verify, and track small and certified subcontractors (MBE, WBE, DBE, SBE, VBE, SDVOB, etc.) before bid submission.

ClearSource combines subcontractor discovery, documentation verification, outreach, and participation tracking in one system — replacing spreadsheets, directories, and manual follow-ups with a single workflow.

“General contractors need a simpler way to find qualified subcontractors and maintain accurate compliance records,” said Wissam Akra, CEO of Tough Leaf. “ClearSource unifies those steps in one platform, and with ClearComply, we’re extending that same visibility into the construction phase.”

ClearSource Key Capabilities

• Find qualified subs in seconds by trade, location, and past experience
• Automatically verify certifications, insurance, union status, and past performance
• Integrations with existing procurement tools
• Track outreach and participation 
• Generate clear, one-click solicitation and good-faith reports

Integrated Platform Expansion

Alongside ClearSource, Tough Leaf introduced ClearComply, expanding the company’s capabilities into during-construction compliance. The module manages documentation workflows, mid-project participation updates, reporting for owners, and payment compliance support throughout project delivery.

These launches are part of Tough Leaf’s broader strategy to provide an end-to-end compliance platform supporting teams from bid through closeout. The full suite now includes:

• ClearSource: Subcontractor sourcing, targeted outreach, documentation verification, and participation tracking in one place.
• ClearSpend: Spending and participation tracking to help teams understand where dollars are going and how they align with project goals.
• ClearComply: During-construction compliance, including documentation workflows, mid-project participation updates, owner and agency reporting, and field-level support.
• Managed-Service: Full-service subcontractor sourcing, validation, and outreach executed by the Tough Leaf team.

Early Access Pricing

Tough Leaf is extending early access pricing to the next 10 general contractors who join before December 31, 2025. Interested firms can connect with our team through the early adopter form for details.

About Tough Leaf

Tough Leaf helps clients meet participation goals by finding, verifying, and managing certified subcontractors. The company’s platform replaces manual sourcing and compliance tracking with automated workflows, improving accuracy and visibility across teams. For more information, visit toughleaf.com.

Media Contact

Stephanie Seril
VP of Growth, Tough Leaf
stephanie@toughleaf.com
+1 650-776-2074

Unlisted, the innovative digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that are not yet on the market, announced today that Michelle Kalina has joined the platform as a Local Expert across Arizona and Minnesota.

Michelle represents Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in Arizona and Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty in Minnesota. She will serve as the Local Expert for buyers and homeowners throughout North Scottsdale, specializing in the exclusive community of Desert Mountain, as well as the surrounding communities and Paradise Valley. Her coverage includes ZIP codes 85253, 85254, 85255, 85258, 85259, 85260, 85262, 85331, and 85377. She will also represent the Rochester, Minnesota area, including ZIP code 55902.

Michelle brings a strategic marketing background, a luxury service approach, and deep insight into both markets. Her dual-market presence strengthens Unlisted’s mission to connect homeowners and buyers well before a home comes to market.

Unlisted’s technology is designed to open new possibilities for buyers, homeowners, and agents. Buyers can discover homes that fit their criteria beyond what is listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain tools to understand interest in their property and connect with potential buyers. Real estate professionals gain a platform that elevates their expertise and expands opportunities for their clients.

Using publicly available data, Unlisted creates a digital property profile for every home in the country. Users can search and organize these homes into curated lists that match a buyer’s needs. Even when a home is not for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for their favorite properties, creating valuable touchpoints and giving homeowners new options to consider.

Each vetted real estate professional partnered with Unlisted receives an agent profile connected to every home in their assigned ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, highlighting their credibility and deep understanding of the local market. As Unlisted continues to grow nationwide, its mission remains centered on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

Kalina brings a distinctive dual-market presence, pairing her deep Scottsdale expertise with extensive experience representing clients in Rochester, Minnesota. As a Global Real Estate Advisor, she combines local knowledge, national reach, and a global network, delivering concierge-level service to buyers and sellers. Known for her negotiation skills, elevated marketing, and unwavering dedication to her clients, she provides results-driven representation rooted in professionalism and care.

Michelle holds the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) and Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designations — credentials that reflect her depth of knowledge in the luxury sector and her commitment to excellence. With a client-centered approach that blends creativity, advocacy, and strategic insight, she ensures that every client receives personalized guidance and white-glove service, whether purchasing their dream home or preparing a prized property for the market.

“I’m committed to giving my clients every advantage,” said Kalina. “Unlisted provides a modern way to explore possibilities, understand interest, and connect with the right opportunities — whether you’re actively searching or simply curious. I’m excited to be a resource for buyers and homeowners across these ZIP codes and to bring innovative tools to the communities I serve.”

“Michelle’s dual-market perspective and dedication to delivering elevated, tech-forward service align perfectly with what we’re building at Unlisted. We’re thrilled to welcome her to our growing nationwide network,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted.

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

To learn more about Michelle Kalina, visit her Unlisted Profile or her website.

About Unlisted

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

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale — yet, today announced that Mia Trudeau, one of Los Angeles’s most respected luxury real estate professionals, has joined the platform. As the exclusive local expert for buyers and homeowners in ZIP codes 90049, 90077, 91403, and 91423, Trudeau will represent communities across Bel Air, Brentwood, and Sherman Oaks. She joins several other Sotheby’s International Realty agents who have recently partnered with Unlisted across the country.

Unlisted’s platform is designed to bring visibility and opportunity to all sides of the real estate ecosystem. Buyers can discover homes they love beyond what’s listed on the MLS. Homeowners gain new tools to see real interest in their property and explore their options. Agents gain a powerful way to expand their expertise and make meaningful connections with both buyers and sellers in their market

Using publicly available data, Unlisted creates a digital property profile for every home in the country. These searchable records allow buyers and agents to build curated lists of homes that match their criteria — even if they aren’t on the market. Buyers can then join a Waitlist for the homes they love, signaling real interest and creating a new channel of communication between homeowners and agents.

Each Local Expert selected by Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent is chosen per ZIP, spotlighting their market knowledge and credibility. As Unlisted expands its national network, its mission remains clear: to empower buyers, homeowners, and agents through transparency, connection, and possibility.

With over 22 years of experience representing elite clientele in Los Angeles’s most exclusive neighborhoods, Mia Trudeau has established herself as a trusted authority in high-end residential real estate. Specializing in luxury estates across Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, and beyond, Mia is known for her strategic negotiation skills, design insight, and unwavering client-first approach. In addition to her brokerage expertise, she brings a multifaceted perspective as a homeowner, investor, and founder of Plank & Stone — an architectural surface brand that reflects her deep understanding of craftsmanship and aesthetics. Her unique combination of business acumen, creativity, and discretion allows her to guide clients seamlessly through every stage of ownership.

“In Los Angeles, timing and relationships make all the difference,” said Trudeau. “I want to better help clients discover hidden opportunities and connect with buyers who value the art of the deal long before a home ever hits the market.”

“Mia represents everything we look for in a Local Expert — trusted, visionary, and deeply connected to her community,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “Her experience and eye for potential perfectly embody Unlisted’s mission to make every home discoverable and every connection meaningful.”

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

To learn more about Mia Trudeau, visit her Unlisted Profile or Sotheby's International Realty.

About Unlisted

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

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

The College of Charleston is combining the power of philanthropy and the strength of the university’s financial aid resources to launch the South Carolina Talent Initiative (SCTI). The initiative’s slogan, “Stay Local, Go Far” reflects the college’s aim to foster high academic achievement to promising state resident students in need of financial assistance.

Beginning with the fall semester 2026, SCTI commitments and scholarships will make the cost of a College of Charleston education more manageable for 100% of South Carolina high school graduates in financial need, while also demonstrating the institution’s commitment to retaining the state’s best students and strengthening the state’s economy.

"As South Carolina’s oldest institution of higher education, the College of Charleston has a proud, centuries-old tradition of educating the state’s best and brightest,” said President Andrew T. Hsu. “Our ongoing commitment to making a College of Charleston education more attainable and affordable for South Carolina students and their families is a natural extension of that legacy, ensuring that future generations of students have the same opportunities to learn a wide range of subjects, develop new skills and lead tomorrow’s workforce,” he added.

Here’s how it works: apply, be admitted, submit a FAFSA by the priority deadline and receive a compelling financial aid offer that meets, at minimum, 65% of a qualified student’s financial need. By taking both merit and need into consideration, this initiative ensures that all South Carolina students with any financial need can benefit from the program.

Information on how SCTI financial aid will impact students can be found on the SCTI webpage.

Erica Harrison-Jones, director of scholarships at the College of Charleston, says deciding where to enroll for a post-secondary education is up there with one of the biggest decisions in a student’s life. “That’s what makes this initiative so important. The SCTI offers something for nearly every student — real, tangible opportunities to pursue their goals at an extraordinary institution. It’s our way of bringing transparency to the process and showing what’s truly available to South Carolina residents who want to stay local and go far.”

While SCTI is a bold new effort to expand opportunities and empower the next generation of South Carolinians based around seven strategic commitments, some students have already benefited from a foundational element of the initiative. Eric Santiago Velasco, a senior international business major, was able to continue his studies at the college using financial aid from the Meeting Street Charleston Compact. “It not only supported me financially at the College of Charleston but also encouraged me to keep going when things felt difficult,” he said, adding, “I’m deeply thankful for the chance to finish strong and pursue my dreams.”

What Others are Saying About SCTI 

“The South Carolina Talent Initiative represents an unparalleled opportunity for the College of Charleston to not only recruit and retain the best and brightest in the state, but also to give back to the local and state economy. I applaud this effort,” said State Representative and College of Charleston alumnus Leonidas E. “Leon” Stavrinakis.

“SCTI will help expand opportunities for regional partnerships, ensuring that the Charleston Metro Chamber’s work remains responsive to the needs of the business community. We support this alignment with our mission that will positively impact the economic vitality of Charleston and the state,” said Kevin Sheilley, president of Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce.

“SCTI aligns closely with the Charleston Regional Development Alliance and the strong momentum propelling our region forward.  Its emphasis on people and partnerships will be key to sustainable growth and economic vitality,” said David T. Ginn, president of Charleston Regional Development Alliance.

For more information and to explore SCTI options, please visit go.charleston.edu/scti.

About College of Charleston

Located in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, the College of Charleston is a nationally recognized, public liberal arts and sciences university. Founded in 1770, the College is among the nation’s top universities for quality education, student life and affordability. Its beautiful and historic campus, combined with contemporary facilities, cutting-edge programs and accessible faculty, attracts students from across the U.S. and around the world. Learn more at www.charleston.edu.

Media Contact

Christine Mahoney
Director of Public Information, College of Charleston
mahoneyc3@cofc.edu
+1 843-953-5667

7-HOPE Alliance ("7-HOPE"), a trailblazing nonprofit coalition dedicated to protecting legal access to 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), today voiced strong support for a newly filed lawsuit in Florida that challenges the Attorney General’s emergency ban on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH). The emergency order, issued without public notice or hearings, classified 7-OH, a natural alkaloid found in the kratom plant, as a Schedule I controlled substance, immediately criminalizing its sale, possession, and use across the state.

Filed before the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings, the petition argues that the state’s actions were unlawful, unnecessary, and carried out without due process. The rule has already forced job losses, business closures, and stripped thousands of consumers of a product they rely on as a safer alternative for wellness and recovery.

“This action is a textbook example of government overreach,” said Jackie Subeck, founder and executive director of 7-HOPE Alliance. “We are proud to see Florida consumers and small retailers stand up to protect their rights and push back against a decision that stripped access to safe, regulated wellness products overnight. This was a politically-motivated move made without transparency or fairness, and we stand firmly behind this petition and the people brave enough to file it.”

The filing argues several key points, many of which are true of 7-OH attacks across the nation:

• No threat to public safety: There is no verified evidence that 7-OH has caused harm or overdose deaths when used on its own.
• Existing state regulation: 7-OH has been legally sold in Florida for years under the Kratom Consumer Protection Act, which already regulates its use and sale.
• No due process: The emergency rule was issued without public input, notice, or consultation with affected businesses and consumers.
• Inconsistent and arbitrary: The rule bans 7-OH but allows the mitragynine alkaloid, even though the human body naturally converts mitragynine into 7-OH.
• Harm to consumers and small businesses: The sudden ban has left consumers without safe options and caused significant economic damage across the state.

7-HOPE Alliance is calling on the Division of Administrative Hearings to declare the emergency rule was fueled solely by political and corporate interests rather than science, and that this rule holds no legal weight, is completely invalid and the State will restore lawful access to these products immediately. The group views this case as one of the first in a growing movement across the country to challenge unlawful and punitive classifications that threaten consumer rights, small businesses, and access to safer alternatives.

7-HOPE Alliance remains committed to advancing public education and awareness around 7-OH through science, transparency, and community engagement. The organization works with researchers, policymakers, and consumers to separate fact from misinformation and ensure discussions about natural wellness products are grounded in evidence — not fear or politics.

About 7-HOPE Alliance

7-HOPE Alliance (7-Hydroxy Outreach for Public Education) is a nonprofit organization (501(c)(3) pending) dedicated to advancing public education, user support, and policy advocacy around 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a naturally occurring alkaloid in the kratom plant. Through a foundation of science, storytelling, and community, 7-HOPE empowers individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers with accurate, balanced information on 7-OH and its role in harm reduction, natural wellness, and safe, legal access to alternatives. The organization’s mission centers on four pillars: science, education, advocacy, and user support. By confronting misinformation, promoting responsible use, and providing uplifting real-life testimonials, 7-HOPE aims to ensure 7-OH remains available to the many individuals who find it to be a safe and effective alternative to dangerous painkillers and illegal drugs. For more information or to get involved, visit 7hopealliance.org.

Media Contact

7-HOPE Alliance
media@7hopealliance.org

Nutifood and ViPlus Dairy, a 130-year-old heritage dairy producer from Gippsland, Australia, have officially introduced the international nutrition brand GippsNature and its first strategic product GippsNature Organic A2 to Vietnamese consumers — the first product of their international joint venture, ViPlus Nutritional Australia.

Following its debut, the joint venture targets revenues exceeding USD 33 million by 2026 and growing to USD 130 million by 2028, driven by expansion across Southeast Asia and key Middle Eastern markets.

First Product ViPlus Nutritional Australia Debuts

Nutifood and ViPlus Dairy have just introduced the international nutrition brand GippsNature and its first strategic product GippsNature Organic A2 to Vietnamese consumers - the first product under their international joint venture, ViPlus Nutritional Australia. Representing the essence of Australia’s “nature-aligned” nutrition philosophy, GippsNature Organic A2 is produced from Australian Certified Organic (ACO) A2 protein milk sourced from Gippsland’s lush pastures and free-grazing herds, combining natural purity with scientifically balanced nutrition tailored to Vietnamese families.

Following its debut, the two partners plan to expand the GippsNature portfolio to a full range of premium milk formulas and nutritional solutions for all life stages.

In addition to the establishment of ViPlus Nutritional Australia, with an initial investment of over USD 3 million (70% from Nutifood and 30% from ViPlus Dairy), Nutifood has invested an additional USD 230 million (approximately VND 6,000 billion) to expand its farms and factories in Gia Lai, Vietnam. It targets revenues exceeding USD 33 million by 2026 and growing to USD 130 million by 2028, driven by portfolio expansion across Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand) and key Middle Eastern markets.

Strategic Roadmap for Global Expansion

During the official visit to Vietnam, the Victorian Government delegation, together with the leadership of Nutifood and ViPlus Dairy, discussed the three-year roadmap for GippsNature’s global expansion. The plan focuses on scaling production, developing new product lines, including ready-to-drink nutrition using Australian-standard formulations, and strengthening the brand’s international presence. Both partners share a long-term vision of delivering sustainable, science-based nutrition that meets the growing global demand for premium quality.

Mr. Jon McNaught, CEO of ViPlus Dairy, not only affirmed his confidence in Nutifood's expertise and experience, but also shared the aligned values between the two enterprises: “Alongside sustainable business aspects, Nutifood and ViPlus Dairy are committed to contributing meaningful economic and social value to local communities. The international joint venture is expected to create numerous employment opportunities for the Gippsland region, as well as foster research and development cooperation for nutritional formulas with leading universities in Melbourne.”

Mr. Tran Bao Minh, Vice Chairman of Nutifood’s Board of Directors, also hopes the joint venture will create impacts: “We highly appreciate the pioneering role of Victoria in global agriculture and nutrition. Through this joint venture, Nutifood aims to collaborate with Victoria to promote bilateral economic cooperation, while co-creating sustainable nutritional values, contributing to elevating both Vietnam and Australia on the global map of food and nutrition.”

Innovation Partnership Strengthens Vietnam–Australia Relations

In the context of strengthening economic cooperation between Vietnam and Australia, particularly in the nutrition sector, a delegation from the Victorian Government, led by the Hon. Danny Pearson, MP — Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs and Minister for Finance — paid a visit to Nutifood in Ho Chi Minh City.

During the visit, Minister Pearson commended the collaboration between Nutifood (Vietnam) and ViPlus Dairy (Australia). He recognized their joint venture, ViPlus Nutritional Australia, and the launch of GippsNature as a symbol of the connection and co-development spirit between the two countries.

“The future plans for the joint venture and GippsNature, as outlined by Nutifood and Viplus Dairy’s executives, only reinforces its purpose and potential, particularly as it has innovation at its core. When businesses collaborate like this, the economic dividends are long-term and widespread across trade and exports, and local economic growth,” said Minister Pearson.

The Minister further expressed strong support for the joint venture and anticipated that ViPlus Nutritional Australia would deliver impressive results, serving as a model for effective economic cooperation between the two nations.

The Victorian Government delegation accompanying Minister Pearson included senior officials from the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, and the Victorian Government Trade and Investment Office in Vietnam, alongside Mr. Jon McNaught, CEO of ViPlus Dairy.

Media Contact

tunha@socialelite.io

symmetRE, a fast-growing disruptor transforming how real estate owners and operators manage and analyze data, today announced the successful completion of its SOC 2® Type I audit as of October 31, 2025. The independent assessment verified that symmetRE’s controls are suitably designed to meet the AICPA Trust Services Criteria for security, availability, and confidentiality.

As the real estate industry accelerates its shift toward data-driven decision-making, firms are demanding technology partners that combine modern analytics with enterprise-grade security. SOC 2 compliance affirms that symmetRE’s cloud-native platform meets those expectations — offering investors, GPs, and owner-operators a secure foundation for portfolio analytics, reporting, and collaboration at scale.

“We’ve built symmetRE from day one around trust, precision, and speed,” said Artur Gaifutdinov, co-founder and chief technology officer. “SOC 2 certification confirms that our pace doesn’t come at the expense of quality — we ship fast, but always by the book and with reliability built in.”

Today, symmetRE supports dozens of the nation’s leading real estate private equity firms and operating partners, helping them unify financial and operational data across portfolios and automate manual reporting workflows. The platform standardizes data from systems such as Yardi, RealPage, MRI, and Entrata to centralize asset-level data, streamline internal dashboards, and eliminate spreadsheet-heavy processes. Built-in report automation enables teams to generate investor-ready performance updates in minutes, while its secure investor portal provides limited partners with real-time visibility into key metrics, documents, and distributions — all powered by a verified, single source of truth.

“This milestone is about more than compliance; it’s about continuing to solidify symmetRE as the standard of expectations in software for owners and asset managers,” said Jack Swoboda, co-founder and chief executive officer. “Earning SOC 2 status signals to the market that we operate with the same rigor and reliability that investors expect from our clients. We’re proving that next-generation technology goes hand and hand with institutional-grade trust.”

The SOC 2 Type I audit evaluated the design of symmetRE’s controls as of October 31, 2025, confirming that its systems are structured to achieve service commitments related to security, availability, and confidentiality. The company continues to strengthen its information-security and compliance programs as it scales its customer base across the U.S. multifamily and commercial real estate markets.

About symmetRE

symmetRE is a cloud-based asset-management platform built for real-estate investment teams. By unifying data across property-management and financial systems, symmetRE delivers secure, automated insights that streamline reporting and accelerate performance across portfolios. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chicago, symmetRE is redefining the standard in asset management. To learn more, visit symmetre.com.

Media Contact

Lindsay Curry
Head of Marketing, symmetRE
lindsay.curry@symmetre.com

OPay, a leading fintech platform serving emerging markets, has crossed a major milestone with more than 20 million daily active users and 36 million monthly active users worldwide. According to the latest rankings, OPay now stands among the top 10 fintech apps globally by daily active users, underscoring its rapid rise as one of the most influential digital financial service ecosystems in high-growth regions.

The company continues to expand under its long-term “Super App” vision, which aims to integrate payments, savings, credit, lifestyle services, and small-business tools into a single, accessible digital platform. OPay targets 100 million daily active users by 2030, a goal driven by their commitment to building a more inclusive and affordable digital financial infrastructure for underserved populations.

Since its founding in 2018, OPay has maintained a strong upward momentum. In August 2021, the company secured a $400 million Series C funding round led by prominent global investors, boosting its valuation and accelerating its expansion into multiple emerging markets. Its business performance continues to scale at an impressive pace. In the first quarter of 2025, OPay’s total transaction volume increased nearly 60-fold compared with the first quarter of 2021, reflecting both market demand and the platform’s ability to support daily financial activities across millions of users.

OPay’s growth has been driven by its focus on reliability, user experience, and localized financial solutions that address gaps in traditional banking systems. As digital finance becomes increasingly essential across Africa, Asia, and other developing regions, OPay is positioning itself as a next-generation financial partner for consumers and businesses seeking secure, seamless, and inclusive financial services at scale.

Tanzania Safaris, a pioneer in bespoke African travel, has unveiled its 2026 Luxury Adventure Collection, redefining what it means to explore Tanzania in style. These exclusive new journeys combine untouched wilderness, world-class comfort, and meaningful sustainability, offering travelers an intimate connection with nature far from the crowds.

“True luxury is found in experiences that move you — in silence, space, and authenticity,” says Saif Kilewo, CEO of Tanzania Safaris. “Our 2026 Collection is designed for travelers who want the wild without compromise.”

Highlights of the 2026 Luxury Adventure Collection

• Private Great Migration Safaris: Follow the Great Migration with a private guide and vehicle, witnessing over 1.5 million wildebeests and zebras as they cross the Serengeti — in complete exclusivity.
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Rise above the plains at sunrise and drift over the Serengeti National Park or Tarangire for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the landscape below.
• Remote Wilderness Lodges: Stay inhandpicked, secluded lodges — from private Serengeti National Park conservancies to hidden corners of Ngorongoro — where tranquility replaces crowds and wildlife roams freely.
• Eco-Luxury Stays: Enjoy elegant, solar-powered suites, infinity pools with panoramic views, and locally inspired gourmet cuisine that honors Tanzania’s natural abundance.
• Cultural Encounters: Experience the spirit of Tanzania through guided visits with the Maasai, learning about traditions, music, and sustainable ways of life.
• Zanzibar Beach Extensions: End your adventure in Zanzibar with a private beachfront villa, ocean-view spa treatments, and Swahili cooking experiences curated by local chefs.
• Luxury with a Purpose: Tanzania Safaris continues its long-standing commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring every journey supports conservation and local communities. A portion of each 2026 booking contributes to anti-poaching patrols, community education, and reforestation projects across Tanzania.
• Exclusive Launch Offer: To celebrate the release of the 2026 Collection, guests who confirm their itinerary before December 31, 2025, will receive an exclusive 10% early booking discount.

Design Your Journey

Visit www.tanzania-safaris.com or email sales@tanzania-safaris.com to design your journey.

About Tanzania Safaris

Based in Arusha, Tanzania Safaris delivers tailored experiences for luxury travelers, honeymoons, families, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking both classic safaris and unique off-the-beaten-path adventures. We invite you to explore Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultures with our expert local guides and sustainable travel principles. For more information, visit www.tanzania-safaris.com.

Esports viewership analytics company Esports Charts and betting brand GG.BET have announced an update to their joint project, the Esports Map, an interactive map featuring esports data from over 110 countries worldwide. The latest version introduces a new filter that allows users to explore detailed viewership stats for various games and compare their popularity across specific regions.

The Esports Map's new feature lets users discover fresh esports insights. For example, Tekken rivals Dota 2 in popularity across various countries (with the Japanese fighting game topping the charts in 43 countries, compared to Dota 2's 47 countries), while Counter-Strike leads as the top game in 76 countries.

The largest tournaments for Free Fire, one of the most popular mobile games, have reached record peak viewership in countries with massive audiences, like Singapore (5.4 million), Brazil (2 million), Thailand (1 million), Mexico (around 900,000), and Saudi Arabia (over 555,000). Legendary in every sense of the word, League of Legends (LoL) continues to dominate markets with well-developed esports infrastructure, such as the U.K. (6.8 million), South Korea (6.4 million), and the U.S. (5.1 million). Fun fact: Iceland also made it into the top five (4.1m), despite its small local market, as the country boasts a surprisingly active esports community and has hosted international events like the Mid-Season Invitational and LoL Worlds.

The interactive Esports Map covers data on tournaments from 2017 through 2025, clearly illustrating how the global esports landscape is evolving. Users can explore peak viewership figures, detailed tournament information regarding winners, prize pools, major upsets, and surprising underdog victories, and much more.

About GG.BET

GG.BET is an international betting brand represented in the U.K., Ukraine, and other European countries, as well as Asia. The betting brand is well-known for supporting major esports events. GG.BET has served as the official sponsor of top-tier tournaments such as the BLAST Premier CS2 series, Dota 2’s The International 2022, and many others. The brand is now expanding its focus into traditional sports and actively supports professional teams and events. For more information, visit gg.bet.

Media Contact

Press Office
pr@gg.bet

Last night, in a special evening honoring Adam Duritz of Counting Crows, Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine raised more than $1.2 million for the Scleroderma Research Foundation (SRF) — the country's first and leading nonprofit investor in medical research into scleroderma. Hosted by Jeff Ross, and co-chaired by SRF board members Susan Feniger and Regina Hall alongside Caroline Hirsch and Kelly Rizzo, the signature fundraising event featured some of the biggest names in comedy to support the SRF's mission, funding cutting-edge research programs and educational outreach. Adam Duritz received the Bob Saget Legacy Award, recognizing his steadfast support for scleroderma research and his commitment to continuing the legacy of late SRF Board Member Bob Saget.

The event was presented in partnership with the New York Comedy Festival (NYCF), the largest and longest-running annual comedy festival in the United States, taking place through November 16. Now in its 21st year, the festival was founded by Caroline Hirsch, owner of the iconic comedy club Carolines on Broadway, and long-time SRF collaborator.

Susan Feniger and Nikki Glaser presented Adam Duritz with the Bob Saget Legacy Award with Feniger sharing a touching story of how Adam’s music helped Bob through the loss of his sister and how he stepped in on a moment's notice to perform at a previous Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine event, while Glaser expressed her longtime admiration for the Counting Crows frontman.

"It's a terrible disease that isn't as well known as cancer, so it doesn't get the funding. But people still suffer horribly from it. Bob [Saget] was very devoted to making a change for people with scleroderma. He instilled in me a deep respect for this organization," said Adam Duritz. 

"I started hosting this a few years ago, taking over for Bob. Bob cared about people; his sister had scleroderma. A lot of people here tonight have scleroderma. This is our way to keep Bob in the VIP section of heaven. Everybody gets together for the same cause. We laugh at the same things, we get fat together, we cry together, and we raise money to fight a horrible disease,” said Jeff Ross. 

Some of the world's most talented performers generously donated their time to raise funds for the Scleroderma Research Foundation and to find a cure. After a dinner curated by Susan Feniger, the audience was treated to comedy sets by Emmy-nominated writer and stand-up comedian Hannibal Buress, rising comedy star Kelsey Cook, Grammy-nominated comedian and bestselling author Jim Gaffigan, and Golden Globe-nominated comedian and recent SNL host Nikki Glaser. The evening also featured special guest appearances by legendary journalist and television personality Katie Couric and surprise guest Matt Friend, who joined Jeff Ross on stage to deliver his signature celebrity impressions.

Katie Couric led the live auction alongside Billy Harris, creating an electric moment when she strummed a guitar donated by John Mayer. Among the evening's most poignant auction items was an emerald necklace designed by Bob Saget's daughter Lara. 

"I'm so honored to be here as always. To be here to support the cause, fund research, and put the SRF out of business by finding a cure. This is the fourth event since Bob passed, and to be able to bring in some of his friends, people who looked up to him and loved him, has been really special," said Kelly Rizzo.

"Bob Saget was a mentor of mine in comedy. I'm so honored to be here because I know how much this cause meant to him. I really love being part of anything that's raising awareness and funds for research into diseases that need a cure," said Kelsey Cook.

Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine was founded in 1987 by Scleroderma Research Foundation (SRF) founder Sharon Monsky and SRF board member Susan Feniger. Susan brought Caroline Hirsch into the fold from the very beginning. Caroline, who received the Bob Saget Legacy Award in 2023, has been instrumental in growing the event over the decades.

“We started the event back in the late ’80s, when we were working together in New York. It’s grown tremendously over the years — and then Bob Saget came in and helped turn the night into something even bigger. Now, all these years later, it’s incredible to see and continue the legacy and have it be a part of the festival,” said Caroline Hirsch.

Since 1987, Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine has been a cornerstone of the SRF's fundraising efforts, raising over $30 million to fund research aimed at finding a cure for scleroderma.

The SRF is the United States' leading nonprofit investor in scleroderma research. Scleroderma, often misdiagnosed, is a rare and often life-threatening autoimmune disease that can cause fibrosis in the skin and other vital organs. In the most severe cases, complications can damage the heart, lungs, and digestive system. The SRF funds and facilitates the most promising, highest-quality research aimed at improved therapies and, ultimately, a cure for scleroderma.

About Scleroderma Research Foundation (SRF)

The Scleroderma Research Foundation (SRF), a 501(c)(3) organization, was established in 1987 with a mission to fund and facilitate the most promising, highest-quality research aimed at new treatments and, ultimately, a cure for scleroderma. Led by a scientific advisory board composed of some of the most highly regarded scientists in the nation, the SRF’s research program actively seeks out the leading scientific minds from disparate fields, including autoimmunity, immunology, genetics, and fibrosis, to join the scleroderma research community. In addition to its core research program, the SRF has also led the formation of several large-scale projects aimed at accelerating scleroderma research, including the highly innovative CONQUEST platform clinical trial — a first of its kind in rare autoimmune diseases. The SRF is also dedicated to educating people living with scleroderma and their caregivers about how to best manage the challenges of the disease. Stay engaged with the SRF at srfcure.org and via social media: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Media Contact

Julie Richter
julie@julierichter.co

BrYet US, Inc. ("BrYet"), a biotechnology innovator focused on developing curative therapies for advanced cancers, announced today that it has expanded its patent portfolio with the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12,390,420, titled “Compositions for Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Agents and Methods for the Synthesis and Use Thereof." The patent covers compositions and methods intended to guide therapies to target tissues and control their release using the company’s proprietary nanoporous silicon microparticles (NSMP) and multi-component architecture.

The newly-patented technology provides the foundation for a robust pipeline of therapies, with a near-term application in BrYet’s work pairing its proprietary platform with kinase inhibitors (KIs) — targeted medicines that help switch off overactive growth signals in some cancers.

Traditionally, the therapeutic efficacy of kinase inhibitors is often limited by poor drug delivery to tumor sites and the rapid development of drug resistance. The human body has a series of biological barriers that affect drug distribution and can prevent the desired accumulation of therapeutic agents at the cancer site while inducing adverse side effects. BrYet’s patented approach aims to improve the delivery of KIs by overcoming such biological barriers with a platform that comprises three elements: nanoporous silicon microparticles (NSMP), functional groups introduced to the surface of NSMP, and therapeutic drugs bound to the chemically modified NSMP through non-covalent interaction.

By packaging more than one KI together and releasing them at the same tumor site, BrYet aims to address treatment resistance with vertical and/or horizontal pathway inhibition. Rational combinatorial targeted therapies have been shown to enhance antitumor activity and overcome resistance to the therapy. Additionally, BrYet's delivery platform is designed to minimize adverse side effects with lung-selective delivery.

“This patent expands the applications for our targeted approach to treating cancer,” said Dr. Mauro Ferrari, president and CEO of BrYet. “It strengthens our ability to pair our delivery science with targeted medicines such as kinase inhibitors, bringing us one step closer to our ultimate goal of delivering functional cures.”

“By coordinating how and where each agent is released, we aim to improve the odds against therapeutic resistance and help patients in the greatest need,” said Dr. Masakatsu Eguchi, senior scientist of BrYet and the patent’s inventor.

BrYet plans to continue preclinical and clinical studies of its technology — including programs that combine targeted therapies such as KIs — and to explore partnerships to accelerate development toward the clinic.

Most recently, BrYet received Australian approval to begin its first-in-human clinical study of ML-016, the company's lead therapeutic. ML-016 targets cancer-specific phenotypes in lung and liver cancers using the same vascular-targeting NSMP technology that will be used for the KI line.

About BrYet

BrYet is a privately held biotechnology company developing potentially first-in-class therapies for patients suffering from cancers for which there is no current curative treatment. BrYet’s lead asset, ML-016, is being developed for cancers of the lungs and liver, including advanced primary malignancies and metastatic spread from primary cancer that originates in other organs or tissue of the body. The company’s fundamental belief is that upon localization in the lungs and liver, these cancers acquire molecular transport phenotypes that are conserved regardless of site of origin and are largely independent of molecular mutations and their continued evolution. BrYet designs multi-component new chemical entities and formulations, which are directed against the fundamental aspects of these cancer-associated, organ-specific transport phenotypes. The company’s proprietary platforms include the mesoporous silicon components, and the mathematical formalism for designing the multi-component drugs, termed Transport Oncophysics. BrYet believes that similar approaches may provide advances against other forms of presently incurable cancers, as well as other pathologies of the lungs and liver. For more information, visit bryetpharma.com.

Safe-Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning BrYet and its business. These statements are based on the beliefs of, assumptions made by, and information currently available to the company’s management. When used in this document, the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “intends,” “believes,” “plans,” “predicts,” “should,” “could,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from expectations. Factors that could contribute to these differences include the results of studies and clinical trials, regulatory approvals, challenges in clinical trials, the ability to retain employees, research and development expenses, reliance on third parties, intellectual property issues, competition, future funding needs, economic conditions, and other industry-specific risks. You should not place undue reliance on these statements, which are current as of the date of this press release. BrYet does not plan to update these statements unless legally required.

Media Contact

Nabeeha Rahman
nabeeha.rahman@bryetpharma.com

Media and Investor Contact
info@bryetpharma.com

Yield.xyz, a leading digital asset yield infrastructure provider, today announced its partnership with Spark.fi to offer Spark Savings to wallets that support the Yield.xyz API. This partnership enables all platforms using the Yield.xyz API to access a current 4.5% APY on stablecoins including USDC, USDS, and USDT, broadening access to sustainable, onchain yield backed by Sky’s (formerly MakerDAO) ecosystem.

Through this collaboration, Yield.xyz brings the stability and scalability of Spark’s Savings product to wallets, neobanks, and fintech platforms worldwide. The partnership provides access to Ethereum-native yields to retail users, allowing stablecoin holders to earn yield generated by real-world assets and protocol revenues. Yield.xyz abstracts the technical complexity of integrating Spark Savings, enabling partners to embed these rewards into user experiences through a single API call.

This integration represents an important step forward in expanding the reach of Spark’s yield infrastructure,” said Sam MacPherson, co-founder of Spark. “By working with Yield.xyz, we’re enabling more platforms to offer their users a transparent, sustainable source of stablecoin yield that’s native to Ethereum.

With the addition of Spark Savings, Yield.xyz partners can now diversify beyond traditional DeFi strategies such as lending and liquidity provision, accessing a yield stream derived from one of the most trusted onchain sources. The collaboration strengthens Yield.xyz’s position as the leading API infrastructure for stablecoin and staking yield, already powering integrations with major platforms like Ledger, Tangem, and Zerion.

Spark has built one of the most dependable and transparent yield mechanisms in DeFi,” said Serafin Lion Engel, co-founder of Yield.xyz. “Integrating Spark Savings through our API allows apps and platforms to instantly connect their users to sustainable stablecoin yield — without needing to interact with onchain apps directly."

Yield.xyz’s API handles all underlying smart contract interactions, security validations, and reward tracking, while Spark.fi continues to manage the yield mechanism behind Spark Savings. Together, the two teams are helping scale access to efficient, transparent yield across DeFi and Web3 financial infrastructure.

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 Spark

Spark is an institutional-grade asset allocator that unlocks idle yield and consolidates fragmented liquidity across decentralized finance. By activating over $9 billion in reserves, Spark delivers deep, scalable liquidity and risk-adjusted yield for institutions and retail users alike. With transparent onchain governance and a rigorous risk framework, Spark connects users to global capital opportunities at internet speed, making finance more open and efficient. Spark optimizes risk-adjusted stablecoin yields, deploying more than $3 billion in liquidity and generating over $54 million in annualized revenue across its three core products: SparkLend, Spark Savings, and the Spark Liquidity Layer (SLL). For more information, visit spark.fi and follow Spark on Twitter and Discord.

Media Contact

Apurv Mishra
apurv@yield.xyz

Brosix, the secure and easy-to-use team messaging platform, is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its domain Brosix.com — a milestone symbolizing twenty years of dedication to making workplace communication simple and effective.

When Brosix.com was first registered in 2005, the founders had a clear vision — to bring the intuitive, friendly experience of consumer messaging apps into the business world. At a time when corporate tools were complex and costly to manage, Brosix set out to offer teams a private, easy-to-manage messaging space that worked.

“Our idea was simple: make team chat feel as natural as everyday messaging, but with the control businesses need,” said Stefan Chekanov, co-founder and CEO of Brosix. “Twenty years later, that mission still guides everything we do.”

Since its early days, Brosix has grown into a trusted communication platform used by thousands of teams worldwide — from healthcare and financial services to professional offices and small businesses. Its focus has remained unchanged: providing one secure space for fast, focused, and distraction-free communication.

To mark the occasion, Brosix has shared the story of its journey and vision in a special anniversary post.

Brosix continues to evolve while staying true to its roots — helping real teams do real work through effortless communication that simply works.

About Brosix

Brosix is a secure and easy-to-use instant messaging platform built for small and mid-sized businesses. It provides private, fully controlled chat channels with file transfer, audio and video calls, and screen sharing — delivering a reliable, out-of-the-box solution that prioritizes privacy, simplicity, and productivity. Serving teams around the world, Brosix continues to innovate to make business communication faster and more effective. For more information, visit www.brosix.com.

Media Contact

Stefan Chekanov
pr@brosix.com

Endolith, a biological-intelligence platform using AI-guided microbes to extract copper and other critical minerals, announced it has closed an initial $13.5 million Series A, with an additional $3 million expected to close in a second tranche, following successful lab results with BHP and early commercial traction. The round was led by Squadra Ventures with participation from Draper Associates and other investors.

“Every technology, from EVs to AI data centers, depends on metals the world is running out of,” said Liz Dennett, Ph.D., CEO and founder of Endolith. “Our microbes turn mineralized material into new supply, building resilience in an industry that has not fundamentally changed in two hundred years.”

Copper demand continues to rise across electric vehicles, semiconductors and data centers, yet production cannot keep pace. New mines take more than a decade to develop, and much of the world’s 2.1 billion metric tons of known copper remains uneconomic to extract using traditional methods.

Endolith’s platform offers a faster path forward by letting microbes do the mining. Its engineered microbial systems, guided by real-time AI, recover metals from low-grade ores and mineralized materials that conventional methods leave behind. The result is faster, cleaner and more capital-efficient recovery that can extend the life of existing assets and unlock new supply without new excavation. Lab and pre-field testing have demonstrated copper recovery from mineralized waste and high-contaminant ores — such as copper-arsenic deposits — that are uneconomic to process using traditional methods. Early results indicate strong potential for higher recovery yields as the platform scales.

“Endolith is defining a new class of industrial biotech,” said Dan Madden, principal, Squadra Ventures. “By merging biology, data and industrial systems, Endolith is creating a scalable path to critical-mineral security. That supply-chain security is foundational to the technologies driving economic growth and human prosperity globally.”

“Collaborative Fund has been proud to back Endolith since its earliest days,” said Guy Vidra, partner, Collaborative Fund. “Liz and her team have moved from lab scale to field-ready at an astonishing pace. They’re proving that the intersection of biology and AI can solve some of the hardest industrial problems on the planet.”

Endolith’s technology has been validated through BHP’s Think & Act Differently innovation program and collaborations with Founders Factory and Arizona Lithium. The new funding will support Endolith’s transition from lab to field, expanding copper-recovery pilots, advancing AI-driven microbial optimization and growing its team across engineering, biology and field operations.

About Endolith

Endolith is a biological intelligence company transforming critical mineral recovery through engineered microbes and adaptive optimization. Its proprietary platform combines bioleaching with real-time data feedback to help mining companies extract more value from low-grade or complex ores cleanly, efficiently, and at scale. Dr. Liz Dennett founded Endolith with major producers to expand recovery across copper, lithium, and rare earths. Learn more at www.endolithmining.com.

Media Contact

Mahoney Communications Group
team@mahoneycommunications.com