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RRA Capital, a private credit investment manager specializing in commercial real estate, today announced that its RRA Real Estate Debt Fund III, LP has been named winner of the Performance of the Year: Real Estate Debt under $500 Million category at the Private Equity Wire® US Awards 2025.

The annual awards recognize excellence among private equity and private credit managers across the United States, highlighting firms that demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and stewardship on behalf of investors. Winners are selected by a panel of allocators and managers using performance data from the 12-month period ending March 31, 2025.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team and the work that went into this,” said John "Boots" Dunlap, CEO and co-founder of RRA Capital. “This recognition reflects their discipline and care in how we serve our investors and partners. At RRA, trust isn’t just a goal. It’s something we earn every day by doing things the right way.”

RRA Real Estate Debt Fund III represents the firm’s continued commitment to disciplined credit investing across transitional commercial real estate assets in the U.S. The fund builds on RRA’s track record of consistent performance, rigorous underwriting, and partnership-driven capital solutions designed to protect and grow investor capital through market cycles.

Disclosure

RRA Capital paid no compensation to be considered for this award. Winners were selected by Private Equity Wire, part of Global Fund Media Ltd., based on fund performance data covering April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025, using net IRRs and money multiple returns for North American-based funds with a track record of more than three years.

About RRA Capital

RRA Capital is a privately held investment manager focused on commercial real estate private credit. Since 2008, the firm has originated, structured, and managed over $2 billion in bridge loans for transitional assets nationwide. Guided by discipline, integrity, and stewardship, RRA’s mission is to create enduring value through transparent, data-informed, and relationship-driven credit investing. The firm is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Learn more at www.rracapital.com.

Media Contact

Hallie White
Director of Marketing, RRA Capital
hwhite@rracapital.com

Zadarma, a global VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) provider, announces the acquisition of a Spanish cloud communication company, Megacall. This is Zadarma's second major acquisition. In 2024, the company acquired VoIPVoIP, an American VoIP provider.

The acquisition of Megacall represents an important milestone in Zadarma's expansion in the European market. It brings new communication tools and features to Megacall existing and future customers.

Zadarma was dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition and providing uninterrupted service for Megacall customers throughout the process. Gradually, customers gained access to a full range of new services, including:

• A newly redesigned website and interface
• Virtual phone numbers in over 110 countries
• Free cloud-based business phone system (PBX)
• Free native CMR with call tracking and reporting
• Developer API and ready-to-use integrations for popular CRM and AI platforms
• 24/7 customer and technical support

Known for its turnkey solutions, Megacall provides fully personalized configurations for every client, complementing Zadarma's more flexible and self-service model.

About Zadarma

Zadarma, founded in 2006, is a global electronic communications provider. The company's offices are located in Bulgaria, Spain, United Kingdom, and Poland. Over the past 19 years, Zadarma has expanded its services across the globe and is known for its innovation, flexibility, ease of use, cost-effective pricing, and its user-friendly business phone system. Zadarma's all-in-one solution offers a wide range of services, many of which are complimentary. The company provides services for individuals, startups, and businesses of all sizes. While continuing to expand globally, the company maintains a strong focus on innovation and customer care. Learn more at zadarma.com.

About Megacall

Founded in 2008 in Malaga, Spain by Phoenix Solutions SLU, Megacall is a telecommunications provider specializing in VoIP services. The company helps businesses modernize and digitalize their communications. Megacall provides services for small and medium-sized businesses, large enterprises, and non-profit organizations. Megacall is recognized for its strong focus on customer satisfaction. The Spanish VoIP provider also collaborates with charities such as Aldeas Infantiles, Samaritans, and the José Carreras Foundation for Leukemia Research. Learn more at megacall.uk.

Media Contact

Iryna Kadiievska
ik@zadarma.com
+44 7458 038657

Itihad Community Management in Dubai, UAE, has earned the AMO® (Accredited Management Organization®) accreditation from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM®) on Nov. 7, 2025. The company joins an exclusive group of just over 450 real estate management firms worldwide that have met the rigorous requirements to earn this distinction.

AMO-accredited firms demonstrate strong financial performance, professional leadership, and strict adherence to IREM’s Code of Professional Ethics. The accreditation requires firms to uphold best practices in real estate management, ensuring the highest standards of operation and service. For property owners, the AMO mark is assurance that their interests come first.

Waqar Hasan, CPM, CEO of Itihad Community Management and Humberts Real Estate, called the recognition “a milestone for Dubai’s real estate industry,” saying:

“It feels surreal to be recognized as the first AMO® in the entire Middle East. If anyone ever asks how I contributed to the progress of Dubai’s real estate industry, I can proudly say that I helped bring home the global gold standard in real estate management."

"When I earned my CPM® in 2020, the UAE wasn’t even listed among IREM’s chapters. I began laying the foundations, sharing the idea with IREM headquarters and with our capable professionals here. In just a few years, that vision became reality, and last year, our members achieved the Chapter Charter," Hasan continued. "Seeing our firm now listed among the world’s AMOs is deeply gratifying. This milestone belongs not only to us but to our clients, suppliers, the Dubai Land Department, IREM headquarters, AMCHAM, Dubai Association Center, Dubai Chambers our chapter members, and our dedicated team who carried this vision forward."

“By earning AMO accreditation, Itihad Community Management has earned the respect of its peers, employees, future employees, and clients,” said 2025 IREM President Dawn Carpenter, CPM. “You’ve joined an elite group of companies operating at the top of their game. The AMO symbol differentiates your business by validating your commitment to maintaining financial and management stability, ethical practices, and excellence in customer service.”

About Itihad Community Management

Established in 2010, Itihad Community Management is one of Dubai’s leading firms specializing in the governance, financial, and operational management of condominiums — locally known as jointly owned properties. The company manages high-rise and mixed-use developments across Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, and Barsha Heights, with a focus on transparency, compliance, and cost efficiency.

Itihad is part of the Humberts franchise in the Emirates — a British real estate firm established in 1842 — bringing international best practices to the UAE in rental property management, brokerage, and valuations.

To learn more, visit itihad.co.ae.

About IREM

For more than 90 years, our members have made us the world’s strongest voice for all things real estate management. Almost 20,000 leaders in commercial and residential management call this home for education, support and networking. Our CPM®, ARM®, ACoM®, and AMO® certifications are internationally recognized symbols of ethical leadership and a well-managed property. And our tools deliver decades of on-the-job know-how to help members get even better at what they do. Put simply, IREM and its members are here to elevate the profession. If you know real estate management, come get to know us. For more information, visit www.irem.org.

Media Contact

Waqar Hasan
marketing@itihad.co.ae

After years of battling the opaque practices of the commercial pet food industry, Petra Luna, the trusted founder and host of the popular YouTube channel CatCrazy, today announced the launch of her own direct-to-consumer cat food brand, CatCrazy. This launch is not a business expansion but a mission, sparked by the loss of her cats, Chopin and Wazoo, to tainted treats — a tragedy that forged a five-year commitment to quality advocacy.

The brand's debut product, CatCrazy Puckin’ Crazy Chicken Feast, is a premium, freeze-dried raw cat food formulated in direct collaboration with the anxieties and demands of her more than 226,000 global subscribers. It is now available exclusively at catcrazystore.com.

For half a decade, the CatCrazy channel has served as a critical resource, dissecting product labels and interviewing experts to expose the prevalence of low-quality fillers and dubious ingredients in the mainstream market. This rigorous research, fueled by Luna’s personal vow to prevent future tragedies, provided the blueprint for a food that would finally meet the uncompromising standards she preached.

“For years, I reviewed and researched countless cat foods after losing Chopin and Wazoo, and the same questions kept coming up from our viewers: 'What's a food with no compromises? What can I actually trust?'" said Petra Luna, founder of CatCrazy. “I realized that to truly answer that question for our community, I had to be the one to create it. CatCrazy is the answer to years of searching — it’s the food I developed for my own cats in collaboration with a food scientist to perfect the formula, built on a foundation of total transparency and ingredient traceability.”

Uncompromising Quality, Species-Appropriate Nutrition

CatCrazy Chicken Pucks are designed as a species-appropriate, complete, and balanced meal for obligate carnivores. The formulation features humanely-raised whole chicken from USDA-approved facilities as the primary ingredient, including essential nutrient-rich organs. The recipe is minimally processed — freeze-dried within 45 minutes of harvesting to preserve vital nutrients — and contains absolutely no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives.

To learn more or to place an order, visit catcrazystore.com.

About CatCrazy

CatCrazy is a premium feline nutrition company maximizing cat health, vitality, and longevity. Our mission is to fuel the vibrant, active lives of cats with nutritious food of uncompromising quality, giving their families the confidence that they are providing the very best. Our goals are to expand market share, innovate nutritional science, and maintain quality traceability. We serve the discerning cat parents seeking superior, specialized feline nutrition solutions. For more information, visit catcrazystore.com.

Media Contact

Ben Searcy
CMO, CatCrazy
ben@crazygoodcatfood.com

Petra Luna
Founder, CatCrazy
petra@crazygoodcatfood.com
+1 310-993-3071

Businesses worldwide are accelerating their digital transition and relying on AI-driven solutions for resilience, productivity, and growth. Recognizing this shift, StartupMafia has selected ten companies leading innovation in technology, automation, and digital infrastructure for 2025.

Ajax Systems

Ajax Systems is Europe’s largest manufacturer of professional security systems, serving more than four million users in 180 countries. Its ecosystem of over 180 devices protects homes and businesses of all sizes through advanced intrusion detection, AI-powered video surveillance, fire safety, and automation.

What makes Ajax Systems stand out is its seamless integration of hardware and software, along with the company’s proprietary technologies, which are changing the perception of security systems for both users and professionals.

Puffer

Puffer, a Sweden-based digital agency, specializes in AI-powered SEO and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization). It builds digital authority through intelligent backlinks and strategic outreach, relying on data rather than guesswork.

The agency operates The Chest, a proprietary platform that provides access to high-quality link opportunities and managed off-page strategies. Positioned at the intersection of SEO and emerging AI search models, Puffer helps brands gain visibility in the era of AI-driven discovery.

Barrel Solar

Barrel Solar, based in Italy, develops AI-enhanced graphene energy systems designed for humanitarian, defense, and industrial applications. Its flagship Super Barrel Graphene combines graphene-based battery storage and intelligent microgrid control for off-grid resilience.

Built on the AI Base platform and compliant with NATO Interforce standards, the system enables encrypted communication between components and ensures continuous power in demanding conditions. Field-tested in multiple continents, Barrel Solar represents the next frontier in secure, sustainable energy.

Fractory

Fractory employs machine learning and AI to automate the entire manufacturing procurement lifecycle, from instant quoting and automated design feedback to intelligent production routing.

The company’s multi-stage connected manufacturing platform eliminates supply chain complexity by coordinating all manufacturing processes, from CNC machining to finishing and assembly, through a single point of contact. By uniting data, design, and production in real time, Fractory removes inefficiencies from industrial supply chains in the United Kingdom and Nordics, fuelling its expansion into France, Italy, Germany, and Spain.

Space of Mind

Space of Mind is an AI-powered platform that goes beyond mood tracking to map thought patterns, identify limiting beliefs in real time, and deliver personalized micro-coaching that rewires neural pathways through repetition.

By treating mental fitness as a trainable skill rather than a form of symptom management, Space of Mind is building the infrastructure for continuous psychological development, making the invisible mechanics of personal growth both measurable and actionable.

Luminar Neo

Luminar Neo simplifies professional photo editing through advanced AI automation. The platform enables users to remove backgrounds, enhance portraits, and adjust skies in seconds — without requiring expert skills.

Its clear design and intelligent algorithms support experimentation and creativity. Luminar Neo’s technology empowers photographers of all levels to achieve studio-quality results while reducing editing time and technical complexity.

Family Orbit

Family Orbit provides an AI-powered parental monitoring system that protects children across digital platforms. The app offers GPS tracking, call and text supervision, and automated detection of explicit content through AI analysis.

By giving parents real-time insight into their children’s device use, Family Orbit promotes digital responsibility and early intervention. Its unified dashboard works across iOS and Android, offering safety and transparency for modern families.

Padel Now

Padel Now is a sports-tech company revolutionizing the padel industry through data and personalization. Its AI recommendation engine evaluates each player’s performance and preferences to match them with ideal gear and coaching programs.

This data-driven system transforms equipment shopping into an integrated experience of improvement and analytics. By linking physical performance with digital intelligence, Padel Now is setting a new benchmark for athlete-centric innovation.

ServerWhere

ServerWhere delivers global hosting infrastructure powered by both cloud technology and cryptocurrencies. The platform provides high-speed dedicated servers and bare-metal cloud from more than 50 data centers on six continents.

Charging exclusively in digital currencies, ServerWhere offers flexibility for clients operating in decentralized finance and Web3 ecosystems. Its model bridges traditional IT infrastructure with the growing demand for blockchain-aligned services.

The Disinformation Commission

The Disinformation Commission is an independent organization combating the spread of false information online. It combines data analytics, AI monitoring, and research-based strategies to identify and counter disinformation campaigns.

Through partnerships with policymakers, media, and tech firms, the Commission supports coordinated responses to digital misinformation — contributing to safer and more transparent public discourse.

Reflecting 2025 Business Priorities

These ten organizations illustrate how AI and digital transformation are converging to create smarter, more resilient systems. From cybersecurity and manufacturing to wellness, media integrity, and renewable energy, their innovations mark a shift toward automation, personalization, and trust. Together, they define the technological agenda for 2025 — where data and intelligence underpin every aspect of progress.

About StartupMafia

StartupMafia is an international platform dedicated to spotlighting innovation, startups, and emerging technologies shaping the global economy. Through expert analysis, partnerships, and editorial features, StartupMafia connects business leaders with insights that drive digital transformation. For more information, visit startupmafia.eu.

Media Contact

StartupMafia.eu Press Department
press@startupmafia.eu

As digital transformation reshapes global industries, companies are seeking innovative solutions that blend technology, compliance, and financial intelligence. To highlight the trendsetters leading this evolution, StartupMafia has identified ten companies redefining how businesses operate, scale, and secure their growth in 2025.

Municorn Fax

Municorn Fax bridges the gap between legacy faxing technology and modern digital workflows. The company helps individuals and organizations send and receive faxes through mobile and online platforms, combining the reliability of traditional faxing with the speed and accessibility of digital tools.

Recognized as one of the highest-rated fax apps on the App Store with over 350,000 reviews, Municorn Fax has recently expanded its services to Comfax.com — continuing its mission to simplify and modernize document transmission for a digital-first world.

Profitmark

Profitmark is a well-established European firm specializing in trademark registration and protection across the European Union. For over two decades, it has been helping startups and international companies secure their intellectual property rights in all EU member states.

What sets Profitmark apart is its combination of legal expertise and digital innovation. Through its proprietary online system, clients can easily prepare and submit trademark applications, perform availability searches, monitor renewals, and manage their portfolios in multiple languages. Profitmark’s experienced team ensures that each application is properly filed and fully compliant with EUIPO procedures — making trademark protection faster, more transparent, and reliable.

IT-OFFSHORE

IT-OFFSHORE provides international business consulting and company registration services across multiple jurisdictions. The firm supports entrepreneurs and corporations in establishing legal entities, obtaining licenses, and opening international bank accounts.

Its strength lies in personalized advisory and confidentiality. IT-OFFSHORE tailors solutions to each client’s operational goals and ensures compliance with global regulatory standards — helping businesses expand internationally with minimal friction.

Rivermate

Rivermate enables global companies to hire employees in the United Kingdom without establishing a local subsidiary. Through its employer of record (EOR) model, the company manages payroll, contracts, and compliance with United Kingdom employment law.

Rivermate’s integrated platform streamlines cross-border hiring and reduces administrative overhead. By managing legal, tax, and HR requirements, it empowers businesses to focus on growth while ensuring full compliance in every region of operation.

Finance.ua

Finance.ua is one of Ukraine’s leading financial marketplaces, operating since 2000. The platform provides comparisons and online ordering for loans, credit cards, deposits, and insurance, alongside real-time currency data and financial news.

Its independence and transparency make Finance.ua a trusted resource for both consumers and small businesses. By combining news, analytics, and direct financial services, the platform helps users make informed, data-driven financial decisions.

Cashivo

Cashivo offers an effortless way for consumers to earn cashback and rewards while shopping online. By partnering with top brands in fashion, technology, and travel, the platform automatically tracks purchases and delivers euro-based savings or vouchers.

Cashivo distinguishes itself through its simplicity — no hidden fees, no extra steps. Operating seamlessly in the background, it allows users to turn everyday spending into tangible savings, reinforcing loyalty between brands and shoppers.

Remitsy

Remitsy is a money transfer platform serving individuals and businesses in Australia and New Zealand that send funds to Europe. It offers transparent fees, real-time exchange rates, and instant transfers through an intuitive interface.

Remitsy’s focus on security, speed, and clarity eliminates traditional banking delays. With no paperwork or hidden costs, the platform provides a modern, efficient alternative to outdated cross-border payment systems.

Cryptonisation

Cryptonisation is a learning and practice platform for cryptocurrency traders. It provides users with a safe environment to study, test strategies, and trade in demo mode. Its intuitive dashboard displays real-time charts and market analytics, helping traders make data-based decisions.

By making crypto trading education accessible to all, Cryptonisation lowers the entry barrier for beginners while offering advanced tools for professionals. The platform’s balance of education and simulation fosters responsible and confident trading.

TopOneTrader

TopOneTrader is a proprietary trading firm that empowers traders to access institutional-level capital through structured funding programs. Participants can join performance-based challenges or instant funding plans and earn up to 90% of profits.

The company differentiates itself through transparent rules, rapid payouts, and 24/7 trader support. TopOneTrader’s infrastructure allows individuals worldwide to scale their trading careers with confidence and financial discipline.

AdBlock360

AdBlock360 offers a next-generation approach to ad blocking and digital privacy. The software removes intrusive ads and tracking across browsers and apps, ensuring a clean and secure online experience.

What makes AdBlock360 stand out is its independence from browser limits. Operating as a desktop application, it blocks ads system-wide — including on platforms like YouTube — where most extensions fail. Fully free and verified as safe, AdBlock360 provides users with unrestricted, fast, and reliable protection online.

These ten companies reflect the core priorities of 2025: digital accessibility, legal clarity, financial transparency, and user empowerment. Each one illustrates how technology and trust converge to shape the next era of global business.

About StartupMafia

StartupMafia is a digital publisher focused on emerging companies, technology-driven business models, and the platforms shaping global markets. Through editorial lists, industry analysis, and startup insights, StartupMafia highlights how innovation translates into practical impact for businesses and users worldwide. For more information, visit startupmafia.eu.

Media Contact

StartupMafia.eu Press Department
press@startupmafia.eu

The Board of Disciplinary Appeals (BODA), appointed by the Supreme Court of Texas, has dismissed two grievances filed against former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg. One was filed by criminal defense attorneys representing two defendants accused of the rape and murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray and one was filed by Joshua Reiss, general counsel for the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. BODA held that none of the actions complained of constituted professional misconduct. The dismissals, issued October 30, 2025, are final and not subject to appeal.

“These dismissals confirm what we’ve maintained all along — that former DA Ogg did nothing unethical or improper in speaking publicly about a case of enormous public concern,” said Jennifer Hasley, one of Ogg’s attorneys.

The grievances stemmed from Ogg's public comments as district attorney as well as afterward about the death penalty prosecutions of Franklin Peña and Johan Jose Martínez-Rangel, cases that drew national media attention and were cited by President Trump in support of his stance on illegal immigration and violent crime in his State of the Union speech and elsewhere.

The grievances alleged Ogg had violated the trial court’s ‘gag’ order, prejudicing the defendants’ right to a fair trial. The court subsequently ordered Ogg to appear at a show-cause hearing to determine whether she should be held in contempt.

“As district attorney, her duty was to seek justice and protect the people of Harris County. She should never have had to defend her right to stand up for crime victims. Because the State Bar grievances alleged the same content as the complaints underlying the contempt allegation, we’ll be filing a motion to dismiss that action shortly,” said Michael Wynne, another of Ogg’s attorneys.

“I’m grateful the Board of Disciplinary Appeals upheld the rule of law and my First Amendment rights as Harris County’s former chief prosecutor and as a private citizen. I also want to thank the excellent lawyers who defended me and ensured that attorney oversight in Texas remains guided by evidence, not politics,” Ogg said.

About Kim Ogg

Kim Ogg served as Harris County’s district attorney from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2024, representing more than 4.5 million residents and leading the nation’s third-largest prosecutor’s office for eight years. During her tenure, she implemented data-driven reforms and accountability measures that reshaped local criminal justice policy. Ogg launched a comprehensive review of bail reform and authored a 2021 report highlighting its impact on public safety, created a mental health diversion program that redirected over 13,000 non-violent offenders to treatment instead of jail, instituted independent review of all police-involved shootings, and prioritized prosecution of repeat violent offenders and public corruption. Before her election, Ogg managed a successful civil and criminal law practice, served as a chief prosecutor under District Attorney John Holmes, directed Houston’s first anti-gang task force, and led Crime Stoppers of Houston as its executive director.

Media Contact

Josh Delano
josh@delanoye.com
+1 409-242-5430

Coastal Cancer Center is excited to announce the groundbreaking of its new state-of-the-art radiation oncology center in Myrtle Beach. "As our community grows, we are proud to expand alongside it," said Emily Z. Touloukian, D.O., president and CEO of Coastal Cancer Center, which incorporated radiation services in 2024 to support the needs of the growing community.

The 13,400-square-foot facility will feature two advanced linear accelerators, with plans to expand to three in the future. Linear accelerators (LINACs) utilize high-energy x-rays or electrons to target cancerous tumors precisely, while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This advanced technology enhances treatment efficacy and allows for customized care that aligns with each patient’s unique needs.

Once completed, the Coastal Cancer Center Radiation Oncology facility will offer patients access to the latest in radiation therapy, with a focus on convenience and cutting-edge care. "This new center reinforces our dedication to providing high-quality, comprehensive cancer care to our community," Dr. Touloukian added.

The new radiation center will be located at 4600 Wild Iris Drive in Myrtle Beach.

About Coastal Cancer Center

Coastal Cancer Center has been providing exceptional cancer care to the Grand Strand and surrounding areas since 1982. In addition to radiation, services include oncology, hematology, chemotherapy, imaging, and pharmacy. For more information, visit coastalcancercenter.com.

Media Contact

Hunter Kerrison
HealthLinks Marketing
hunter@healthlinksmarketing.com

The WelCon Marketplace, operated by the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), is taking center stage once again with its 2025 Virtual Business Consultation, a large-scale online event designed to connect Korean content companies with global buyers and investors. As KOCCA's flagship B2B platform, WelCon not only showcases Korea's dynamic content industry but also facilitates real-time business matching and collaboration opportunities across broadcasting, animation, games, webtoons, and more.

WelCon is a platform that consolidates the overall trends of the Korean content industry, providing the following services:

• K-content market trends and genre-specific analysis
• Interviews with major companies and experts
• Information on global B2B and B2C events hosted by KOCCA
• Status of Korean participating companies at overseas markets

Through these services, domestic and international content professionals can quickly access trends and opportunities in the Korean industry through a single channel.

Beyond its information functions, WelCon Marketplace is evolving into a global business hub that supports practical collaboration between content companies. Registered companies can introduce their content and company information in the form of 'Products' and 'Stores,' while overseas members can leave direct inquiries to companies of interest. 

Additionally, market trends and success stories are being shared through the recently launched 'Insight' board, and overseas companies can also participate by opening their own promotional pavilions.

The ongoing 'WelCon Marketplace Virtual Business Consultation' is a representative online exchange program connecting Korean content companies with overseas buyers. The consultation sessions focus on practical collaboration discussions in areas such as co-production, investment, and distribution and licensing, with more specialized business matching facilitated through genre-focused weeks (animation, character, broadcasting, game, new technology, and webtoon).

The consultation sessions run from October 20 to November 21, 2025, with a total of 87 domestic registered companies participating. Companies and buyers interested in participating can apply on the official WelCon Marketplace website.

A representative from WelCon Marketplace stated, "Demand for K-content, including broadcasting, animation, games, and IP licensing, is rapidly growing in many regions worldwide. WelCon Marketplace plans to establish a new growth base for the K-content industry by expanding co-production, localization, and distribution cooperation between Korean and global content companies and global investors."

About Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA)

Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) supports production, planning, creation, distribution, overseas expansion, business growth, training, R&D, policy financing, and policy study of many different genres, including broadcasting, video game, music, fashion, animation, character, comics, IP, new technology convergence content. KOCCA is dedicated to promote the welfare of the people by turning Korea into a major player in the content industry worldwide. KOCCA plans to systemically and strategically support the industrial infrastructures by closely working with stakeholders, relevant organizations, and local promotion centers. For more information, please visit www.kocca.kr/en/main.do.

Media Contact

Yunjoo Lee
Korea Creative Content Agency
yjelee@kocca.kr

CUDDLY, the mission-driven pet company connecting donors to animals in need, today announced it is launching a purpose-driven pet food line at Walmart that aims to nourish pets while supporting animal shelters across the United States.

The CUDDLY “Every Bag Feeds a Shelter Pet” line — now available in select Walmart stores across the Dallas–Fort Worth area and nationwide on Walmart.com — is centered around a simple idea: for every bag sold, CUDDLY donates a meal to a shelter or rescue pet in need. CUDDLY aims to create a sustainable national feeding network that allows shelters to concentrate more on care, rehabilitation, and adoption.

“Our mission has always been to help pets in need — and by launching at Walmart, we’re turning that vision into reality in a meaningful way,” said John Hussey, CEO of CUDDLY. “Every bag purchased helps us feed a shelter pet, and that simple act of compassion has the power to transform communities across the country.”

A Purchase with Purpose

Each recipe in the CUDDLY pet food line is made in the United States and crafted with high-quality, wholesome ingredients:

• No. 1 ingredient: Real chicken or salmon
• Wholesome rice for easy digestion
• Free from corn, wheat, and soy
• Available in 5 lb and 25 lb sizes

With every purchase, pet parents help create a visible, trackable impact — supporting the donation of meals for animals in need through CUDDLY’s expanding network of shelter partners. The company anticipates that over 100,000 meals will be donated during the initial pilot phase, marking the first step toward establishing the largest animal shelter feeding program in the United States.

Feeding Pets, Fueling Hope

The CUDDLY and Walmart collaboration demonstrates a shared dedication to animal welfare and community support. As local shelters in the DFW area take part in the pilot, CUDDLY plans to expand its reach across the country as the program grows.

Consumers can find CUDDLY Every Bag Feeds a Shelter Pet dog food at select Walmart stores in the DFW area and online at Walmart.com. Each bag features a QR code that customers can scan to see how their purchase helps feed shelter pets across the country.

About CUDDLY

Based in Grapevine, Texas, CUDDLY is the leading platform helping animal rescues and shelters raise funds, collect wish list items, and build lasting connections with pet lovers. Through its expanding ecosystem of products and programs, CUDDLY empowers compassionate communities to create measurable change for animals in need. Learn more at cuddly.com.

Media Contact

Mackenzie Perez
Director of Marketing, CUDDLY
mackenzie@cuddly.com

CoinsPaid, a crypto payment ecosystem for businesses, has published a comprehensive report analyzing 41 European countries across five dimensions: regulation, business activity, taxation, technology, and accessibility. The top performers are the United Kingdom, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and France. The full report is available on CoinsPaid’s website.

“Europe’s crypto scene isn’t just about trading. It’s about infrastructure, policy, and innovation,” comments Max Krupyshev, CEO of CoinsPaid. “The Web3 industry is becoming deeply integrated not only within the fintech sector but also into people’s daily lives. With this Index, we’ve given the industry a mirror — to see where progress is real and where ambition still outpaces reality.”

Key Insights 

• The United Kingdom, Germany, and Liechtenstein are currently leading the region in adopting and integrating cryptocurrency.
• Countries with higher GDP scores tend to achieve higher crypto adoption rankings.
• Countries that joined the EU after 2000 typically score in the mid-range, with significant variability.
• Most EU candidate countries remain in the early stages of adoption. Georgia is the outlier, driven by a strong regulatory push.
• The United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein top the index thanks to targeted, innovation-friendly regulation. While the EU implements new unified rules under MiCA, the flexibility of non-EU leaders has given them an advantage.
• Germany, France, and other founding EU states rank high across multiple factors, benefiting from institutional maturity and economic scale.

Methodology

CoinsPaid assessed a set of indirect indicators across five areas: technological development; business and infrastructure; regulation; taxation; and public interest and engagement. These factors were selected based on data availability and their application in academic research and other indices. Data covering 41 European countries over five years was collected and standardized. The team applied statistical methods to weigh indicators within each factor and group them into meta-indices. Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression was then used to combine the meta-indices into the final Index.

Between 2020 and 2024, crypto adoption in Europe has steadily increased. While progress varies by country, the overall trend remains upward, driven largely by infrastructure improvements and regulatory maturity.

About CoinsPaid

CoinsPaid is an Estonia-licensed crypto payment provider that offers ready-to-use, tailored solutions for businesses. With over 10 years of experience and a strong track record, the company operates internationally, helping merchants expand into new markets and scale globally. CoinsPaid is fully compliant with KYB/AML regulations and has successfully passed multiple independent cybersecurity audits. For more information, visit coinspaid.com.

To see our disclaimer statement, visit coinspaid.com/disclaimer-statement.

Media Contact

Support Team
info@coinspaid.com

Lucra, the leading social competition platform, today announced a partnership with Skill Shot Golf, the public-facing hole-in-one challenge platform that's bringing skill-based golf competitions to golfers nationwide. Through the integration, Lucra will power free and paid peer vs peer tournaments, allowing golfers to compete for cash prizes based on shot accuracy—all verified through patent-pending video validation and ball tracking technology.

This partnership marks Lucra's continued expansion in the golf vertical, building on successful integrations with venue-based partners like Five Iron Golf and Puttshack, as well as at-home training platforms like PUTTR and tech-enabled partners like OnCore. By partnering with Skill Shot's on-course platform, Lucra is bringing competitive, prize-based gameplay to golfers at more than 17,000 courses across the country.

Skill Shot's platform enables golfers to compete for large-scale cash prizes, with every shot verified using the golfers’ smart phone. With Lucra's gamification infrastructure, Skill Shot can now offer a variety of popular tournament formats and varying tiers of cash rewards—including secondary prizes for landing the ball within the flagstick and on the green. This tiered payout approach creates more frequent wins, keeps players engaged, and transforms every par 3 tee shot into an achievable opportunity to earn.

"Skill Shot has built a brilliant platform that turns one of golf's most exciting moments—the hole-in-one—into an accessible, repeatable challenge for everyday players," said Michael Madding, COO of Lucra. "By adding Lucra's tournament format, tiered reward structure and compliance infrastructure, we're making these competitions more achievable and rewarding. Now every shot counts, whether you ace it or just get it close. It's exactly the kind of frequent, small-win experience that keeps players coming back to the Skill Shot platform and its courses for more."

The video validation and ball tracking technology ensures every payout is earned fairly, while Lucra's infrastructure handles all payment processing, identity verification, geolocation compliance, and risk management—allowing Skill Shot to focus on delivering a best-in-class golfer experience.

"Lucra's technology was the perfect fit for our vision of bringing skill-based golf competitions to the masses," said Kevin Reed, co-founder and CEO at Skill Shot. "Their platform gives us the flexibility to host tournament formats users are familiar with, while providing handicapped flights and multiple reward tiers that incentivize participation and celebrate achievement at every skill level. The ability to outsource the majority of the risk, compliance, and payment work to Lucra has allowed us to focus on attracting users. Together, we're gamifying casual golf, and turning it into a more competitive, exciting, and rewarding experience for players everywhere."

For golfers, the integration means more opportunities to win during every round. For Skill Shot's course partners, social tournaments and tiered rewards drive increased tee times as players return to chase both major and minor payouts.

The partnership will roll out to Skill Shot's network of participating locations in the coming months, with additional reward tiers and competition formats planned for future releases.

About Lucra

At Lucra, we use competitive play to build brand loyalty. Our white-label platform allows clients to host competitions, create personalized challenges, and provide users’ rewards. Doing so helps to drive visitation, increase engagement, and add more revenue per customer. We handle all payments, compliance, and risk management, allowing clients to quickly implement our solution into their existing app or website. Lucra powers gamification for top entertainment, hospitality, and consumer brands, including Dave & Buster's, Five Iron Golf, Puttshack, TouchTunes, Hollywood.com, and more. For more information, visit www.lucrasports.com.

About Skill Shot Golf

Skill Shot elevates the pursuit of a hole-in-one by providing big cash prizes and verifiable attestation for golfers of all skill levels. Leveraging patent-pending video validation and ball tracking technology, Skill Shot powers nationwide skill-based golf challenges, offering players the chance to compete for real cash prizes based on their unique skills. By combining transparency, technology, and the suspense of competitive play, Skill Shot is redefining how golfers hunt down one of the game's most elusive feats. Learn more at www.skillshotgolf.com.

Media Contact

Michael Madding
michael@lucrasports.com

Botanicals for Better Health and Wellness (BBHW), a national trade organization focused on advancing science-based botanical policy, today commended Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Health and Family Services Secretary Dr. Steven Stack for their leadership in classifying synthetic and concentrated forms of 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as Schedule I substances.

The organization praised the administration’s decision as a model for other states navigating how to balance consumer safety with access to natural plant-based products.

“Governor Beshear’s action reflects a nuanced and evidence-informed understanding of the issue,” said Dr. Paloma Lehfeldt, MD, Medical Director of BBHW. “Synthetic 7-OH is not the same as natural kratom. It is a highly concentrated, laboratory-modified compound that poses measurable risks for dependence and dangerous adverse effects. By drawing this distinction, Kentucky is helping define what responsible, science-driven botanical regulation should look like nationwide.”

7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, occurs naturally in Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) leaves at trace levels after the drying process, but some manufacturers have produced isolated or chemically enhanced versions. The result, according to BBHW, is a growing category of synthetic products marketed as “kratom” but pharmacologically distinct from the traditional plant.

“Conflating synthetic analogs with natural botanicals creates confusion and undermines both public health and legitimate research,” Dr. Lehfeldt said. “Kentucky’s decision draws a scientific line that other states would be wise to follow.”

BBHW has urged lawmakers to adopt a consistent national strategy that supports scientific research, establishes uniform labeling and purity standards, and ensures that enforcement targets only the high-risk synthetic products that endanger consumers.

“Kentucky’s leadership sends a message that public health policy should be informed by data, not stigma,” Dr. Lehfeldt said. “We applaud Governor Beshear and Dr. Stack for demonstrating that it is possible to protect communities from harm while maintaining a rational, evidence-based path forward for natural products that have been used meaningfully for centuries.”

About Botanicals For Better Health and Wellness (BBHW)

Botanicals for Better Health and Wellness (BBHW) is a national trade organization formed to support the development of robust regulatory frameworks governing botanical products in the United States. For more information, visit www.bbhw.org.

Media Contact

Press Team
paloma@bbhwco.com

Sezzle Inc. (NASDAQ:SEZL) ("Sezzle" or "Company"), a purpose-driven digital payment platform, is pleased to update the market on key financial metrics for the quarter ended September 30, 2025.

“Our products continue to resonate with consumers, as we’re seeing clear momentum in both engagement and scale,” noted Charlie Youakim, Sezzle Executive Chairman and CEO. “It’s exciting to cross $1 billion in quarterly GMV for the first time, which reflects a growing loyal consumer base. We’re sharpening our focus on proven results and long-term innovation, and we're looking forward to supporting shoppers with our tools this holiday season.”

Third Quarter 2025 Highlights

• GMV: $1.0B, up 58.7% YoY; driven by subscription/On-Demand usage, marketing-led acquisition/engagement/retention, and underwriting changes. Consumer purchase frequency rose to 6.5x from 5.4x.
• Total Revenue: $116.8M, up 67.0% YoY (11.2% of GMV).
• MODS: +36,000 in-quarter to ~784,000; growth led by Premium/Anywhere subscribers.
• Operating Expenses: $81.2M, up 65.4% YoY; 69.6% of revenue (-0.6 ppt YoY) and 7.8% of GMV (+0.4 ppt).
• Transaction Related Costs [1]: $53.5M (5.1% of GMV vs. 4.8% prior), reflecting higher credit loss provision; FY25 loss rate guidance updated to 2.5%–2.75% of GMV.
• Operating Income: $35.6M, up 70.6% YoY; 30.4% of revenue (+0.6 ppt) and 3.4% of GMV (+0.2 ppt).
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs [1]: $63.3M, up 64.5% YoY; 6.0% of GMV (+0.2 ppt) and 54.2% of revenue (-0.8 ppt).
• Non-Transaction Related Operating Expenses [1]: $31.6M, up 50.9% YoY; 27.1% of revenue (-2.9 ppt). Includes $1.3M Corporate Strategic Project Costs (capital markets, antitrust suit, bank charter exploration).
• Net Income: $26.7M, up 72.7% YoY; 22.8% margin; EPS (diluted): $0.75 (from $0.44).
• Adjusted Net Income [1]: $25.4M, up 52.6% YoY; 21.8% margin; Adjusted EPS (diluted) [2]: $0.71 (from $0.47).
• Adjusted EBITDA [3]: $39.6M, up 74.6% YoY; 33.9% margin (+1.5 ppt).

[1] See appendix for a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures.
[2] Per diluted share figures reflect 6-for-1 common stock split effective March 28, 2025.
[3] See appendix for reconciliation.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity (as of Sept. 30, 2025)

• Cash & Cash Equivalents: $134.7M (including $30.5M restricted).
• Credit Facility: $118.0M principal outstanding on $150.0M facility at quarter end.
• Post-quarter amendment (Oct. 30, 2025): Borrowing capacity increased to $225.0M via $75.0M accordion.

Guidance

FY2025 (November update vs. August):

• Total Revenue: 60%–65% YoY
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs [3] / Revenue: 60%–65%
• Effective Tax Rate: ~25% (excl. discrete)
• Adjusted Net Income [3]: $120.0M
• Adjusted EPS (diluted): $3.38 — raised from $3.25
• Net Income: $125.0M (note: differs from Adjusted Net Income; see reconciliation)
• EPS (diluted): $3.52
• Adjusted EBITDA [3]: $175.0–$180.0M — raised from $170.0–$175.0M
• Preliminary FY2026: Adjusted EPS (diluted): $4.35 (assumes ~25% tax).

Note: Non-GAAP guidance reflects add-backs for corporate strategic initiatives; November 2025 assumes 35.5M diluted weighted-average shares.

Initiatives Update

• Expanded app features across the shopper journey.
• Earn Tab: Sezzle Arcade, Coupons & Discounts, Gas & Grocery/Dining Discount, Money IQ, Sezzle Quest; tens of thousands of offers; receipt-based rewards launching soon.
• Browser Extension (iOS): Surfaces offers/coupons automatically.
• Usage Growth: MAUs [4] +38% YoY, Revenue-Generating Users [5] +120% YoY (monthly), Monthly Sessions [6] +78% YoY.
  Enterprise wins: D&B Supply; Dunham’s Sports.

[4] Monthly Active Users is defined as the number of unique users that transacted or engaged with the Sezzle app during the month.
[5] Revenue Generating Users are unique users that Sezzle monetized.
[6] Session for the month of September 2025. A Session occurs when a Sezzle Consumer opens the Sezzle app and ends after 30 minutes of inactivity.

Awards and Accolades

Named to TIME 100 America’s Growth Leaders (inaugural list).

Chief Financial Officer Transition

Nov. 1, 2025: Karen Hartje advised of intention to resign as CFO for personal reasons; will continue as CFO and principal financial officer under a Consulting Agreement reporting to CEO Charlie Youakim to ensure a smooth transition.

Upcoming Investor Events

• Nov 17, 2025: Oppenheimer Non-Deal Roadshow (NYC)
• Nov 18, 2025: Wells Fargo 9th Annual TMT Summit
• Dec 16, 2025: Northland Growth Conference
• Dec 17, 2025: Needham Non-Deal Roadshow (Boston) 

Quarterly Conference Call and Presentation

• Nov 5, 2025 | 5:00pm ET.
• Registration: dpregister.com/sreg/10204064/10031acd240
• Webcast: event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=wINtbIvE
• Dial-in (alt): 1-866-777-2509 (US/CA) or 1-412-317-5413 (Intl)
  Replay through Nov 12, 2025: 1-855-669-9658 (US) or 1-412-317-0088 (Intl), access code 9729701.Investor deck to be posted on Sezzle IR before the call.

3Q25 GAAP Operating Results

• Total Revenue: $116,796k vs. $69,958k (+67.0%)Operating Expenses: $81,235k vs. $49,116k (+65.4%); 69.6% of revenue (vs. 70.2%); 7.8% of GMV (vs. 7.4%)Operating Income: $35,561k vs. $20,842k (+70.6%); 30.4% of revenue (vs. 29.8%); 3.4% of GMV (vs. 3.2%)
• Net Income: $26,671k vs. $15,446k (+72.7%); 22.8% of revenue (vs. 22.1%)
• EPS (diluted): $0.75 vs. $0.44 (+70.5%).

3Q25 Non-GAAP Operating Results

• Non-Transaction Related Opex: $31,623k vs. $20,953k (+50.9%); 27.1% of revenue (vs. 30.0%)
• Transaction Related Costs: $53,535k vs. $31,491k (+70.0%); 45.8% of revenue (vs. 45.0%); 5.1% of GMV (vs. 4.8%)
• Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs: $63,261k vs. $38,467k (+64.5%); 54.2% of revenue (vs. 55.0%); 6.0% of GMV (vs. 5.8%)
• Adjusted EBITDA: $39,623k vs. $22,694k (+74.6%); 33.9% margin (vs. 32.4%)
• Adjusted Net Income: $25,441k vs. $16,668k (+52.6%); 21.8% margin (vs. 23.8%); Adjusted EPS (diluted): $0.71 (vs. $0.47).

Appendix — Reconciliations 

Operating Expenses — Non-Transaction Related Opex (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating expenses: $81,235k / $49,116k
• Less: Transaction expense: $(17,435)k / $(12,761)k
• Less: Provision for credit losses: $(32,177)k / $(15,402)k
• Non-transaction related opex: $31,623k / $20,953k

Operating Expenses — Transaction Related Costs (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating expenses: $81,235k / $49,116k
• Less: Personnel $(14,320)k / $(13,423)k; Third-party tech & data $(3,705)k / $(2,387)k; Marketing/advertising/tradeshows $(8,775)k / $(2,726)k; G&A $(4,823)k / $(2,417)k
• Add: Net interest expense $3,923k / $3,328k
• Transaction Related Costs: $53,535k / $31,491k

Operating Income — Total Revenue Less Transaction Related Costs (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Operating income: $35,561k / $20,842k
• Add: Personnel $14,320k / $13,423k; Third-party tech & data $3,705k / $2,387k; Marketing/advertising/tradeshows $8,775k / $2,726k; G&A $4,823k / $2,417k
• Less: Net interest expense $(3,923)k / $(3,328)k
• Total revenue less transaction related costs: $63,261k / $38,467k

Net Income — Adjusted EBITDA (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Net income: $26,671k / $15,446k
• Depreciation & amortization: $369k / $233k
• Income tax expense: $4,961k / $2,163k
• Equity & incentive-based compensation: $2,409k / $1,456k
• Other (income) expense, net: $6k / $(95)k
• Corporate strategic projects: $1,284k / $163k
• Net interest expense: $3,923k / $3,328k
• Adjusted EBITDA: $39,623k / $22,694k

Net Income — Adjusted Net Income & Adjusted EPS (3Q25 / 3Q24):

• Net income: $26,671k / $15,446k
• Discrete tax (benefit) expense [7]: $(2,520)k / $1,154k
• Corporate strategic projects: $1,284k / $163k
• Other (income) expense, net: $6k / $(95)k
• Adjusted net income: $25,441k / $16,668k
• Diluted weighted-avg shares [8]: 35,675 / 35,435
• Adjusted EPS (diluted): $0.71 / $0.47

[7] Prior periods adjusted for equity-based comp tax windfall/shortfall.
[8] 6-for-1 split effective Mar 28, 2025.

Investor Relations Contact

Lee Brading, CFA
+1 651-240-6001
InvestorRelations@sezzle.com

Media Contact

Erin Foran
+1 651-403-2184
erin.foran@sezzle.com

About Sezzle

Sezzle is a forward-thinking fintech company committed to financially empowering the next generation. Through its purpose-driven payment platform, Sezzle enhances consumers' purchasing power by offering access to point-of-sale financing options and digital payment services—connecting millions of customers with its global network of merchants. Centered on transparency, inclusivity, and ease of use, Sezzle empowers consumers to manage spending responsibly, take charge of their finances, and achieve lasting financial independence.

For more information, visit sezzle.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends affecting the financial condition of our business. Forward-looking statements include our expectations, whether stated or implied, regarding our financing plans and other future events.

Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "could," "may," "will," "believe," "estimate," "forecast," "goal," "project," other words or expressions of similar meaning (or the negative versions of such words or expressions). These forward-looking statements address various matters including statements regarding the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. Each forward-looking statement contained in this press release is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statement. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others: impact of the “buy-now, pay-later” (“BNPL”) industry becoming subject to increased regulatory scrutiny; impact of operating in a highly competitive industry; impact of macro-economic conditions on consumer spending; our ability to increase our merchant network, our base of consumers and gross merchandise value (GMV); our ability to effectively manage growth, sustain our growth rate and maintain our market share; our ability to maintain adequate access to capital in order to meet the capital requirements of our business; impact of exposure to consumer bad debts and insolvency of merchants; impact of the integration, support and prominent presentation of our platform by our merchants; impact of any data security breaches, cyberattacks, employee or other internal misconduct, malware, phishing or ransomware, physical security breaches, natural disasters, or similar disruptions; impact of key vendors or merchants failing to comply with legal or regulatory requirements or to provide various services that are important to our operations; impact of the loss of key partners and merchant relationships; impact of exchange rate fluctuations in the international markets in which we operate; our ability to protect our intellectual property rights and third party allegations of the misappropriation of intellectual property rights; our ability to retain employees and recruit additional employees; impact of the costs of complying with various laws and regulations applicable to the BNPL industry in the United States and Canada; and our ability to achieve our public benefit purpose and our election to forego B Corporation recertification and other factors identified in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Annual Report”) and the Company’s subsequent filings filed with the SEC. You are encouraged to read the Company's Annual Report and other filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The Company cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. You are The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this document, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements. The Company's business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement our operating results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), we present the following non-GAAP financial measures: Total revenue less transaction related costs; transaction related costs; non-transaction related operating expenses; adjusted net income; adjusted net income margin; adjusted net income per diluted share; adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”); and Adjusted EBITDA margin. Definitions of these non-GAAP financial measures and summaries of the reasons why management believes that the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to the Company and investors are as follows:

• Total revenue less transaction related costs is defined as GAAP total revenue less transaction related costs. Transaction related costs is the sum of GAAP transaction expense, provision for credit losses, and net interest expense less certain non-recurring charges as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP operating income to non-GAAP total revenue less transaction related costs above. We believe that total revenue less transaction related costs is a useful financial measure to both management and investors for evaluating the economic value of orders processed on the Sezzle Platform.
• Non-transaction related operating expenses is defined as the sum of GAAP personnel; third-party technology and data; marketing, advertising, and tradeshows; and general and administrative operating expenses. We believe that non-transaction related operating expenses is a useful financial measure to both management and investors for evaluating our management of operating expenses not directly attributable to orders processed on the Sezzle Platform.
• Adjusted EBITDA is defined as GAAP net income, adjusted for certain charges including depreciation, amortization, equity and incentive–based compensation, corporate strategic project costs, and merger-related costs, as well as net interest expense as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP net income to adjusted EBITDA. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain non-cash and non-recurring charges, as well as funding costs, that may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business.
• Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by GAAP total revenue. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business’ unit economics by removing the effect of certain non-cash and non-recurring charges, as well as funding costs, that may not directly correlate to the underlying performance of our business.
• Adjusted net income is defined as GAAP net income, adjusted for certain charges including discrete tax items, fair value adjustments on warrants, losses on the extinguishment of our lines of credit, corporate strategic project costs, and other income and expense, as detailed in the reconciliation table of GAAP net income to adjusted net income. We believe that this financial measure is useful for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.
• Adjusted net income margin is defined as Adjusted net income divided by GAAP total revenue. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of our business by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.
• Adjusted net income per diluted share is defined as non-GAAP adjusted net income divided by GAAP weighted-average diluted shares outstanding. We believe that this financial measure is a useful measure for period-to-period comparison of shareholder return by removing the effect of certain charges that, in management's view, does not correlate to the underlying performance of our business during a given period.

Additionally, we have included these non-GAAP measures because they are key measures used by our management to evaluate our operating performance, guide future operating plans, and make strategic decisions, including those relating to operating expenses and the allocation of resources. Therefore, we believe these measures provide useful information to investors and other users of this press release to understand and evaluate our operating results in the same manner as our management and board of directors. However, non-GAAP financial measures have limitations, should be considered supplemental in nature, and are not meant as a substitute for the related financial information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These limitations include the following:

• Total revenue less transaction-related costs is not intended to be measures of operating profit or cash flow profitability as they exclude key operating expenses such as personnel, general and administrative, and third-party technology and data, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Transaction related costs exclude significant expenses such as personnel, general and administrative, and third-party technology and data, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Non-transaction related operating expenses exclude significant expenses, including transaction expense and provision for credit losses, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, significant recurring GAAP expenses.
• Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin exclude certain charges such as depreciation, amortization, and equity and incentive–based compensation, which have been, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future, recurring GAAP expenses. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures exclude certain significant cash inflows and outflows, which have a significant impact on our working capital and cash.
• Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA margin excludes net interest expense, which has a significant impact on our GAAP net income, working capital, and cash.
• Adjusted net income, adjusted net income margin, and adjusted net income per diluted share excludes certain charges such as losses on the extinguishment of our lines of credit, fair value adjustments on our warrants, other income and expense, and discrete tax items which have been, and may be in the future, recurring GAAP expenses. Further, these non-GAAP financial measures exclude certain significant cash inflows and outflows, which have a significant impact on our working capital and cash.
• Long-lived assets being depreciated or amortized may need to be replaced in the future, and these non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect the capital expenditures needed for such replacements, or for any new capital expenditures or commitments.
• These non-GAAP financial measures do not reflect income taxes that may represent a reduction in cash available to us.
• Non-GAAP measures do not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs.
• Other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate the non-GAAP financial measures differently or not at all, which reduces their usefulness as comparative measures.

Because of these limitations, you should not consider these non-GAAP financial measures in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of our financial results as reported under GAAP, and these non-GAAP financial measures should be considered alongside other financial performance measures, including net income and other financial results presented in accordance with GAAP. We encourage you to review the related GAAP financial measures and the reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures and not rely on any single financial measure to evaluate our business.

Echelon Digital Group, the Saudi technology holding company that delivers innovation to businesses across the Middle East announced, together with Elutions, Inc., a U.S.-based artificial intelligence software company, the signing of a strategic partnership to deploy Elutions’ Maestro AI platform across industrial and energy enterprises in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Commenting on the signing of the agreement, His Highness Prince Khaled bin Badr Al Saud, chairman of Echelon Digital, said: “Echelon Digital’s partnership with Elutions represents an important step toward harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen competitiveness, and empower various sectors with the latest technological solutions.”

He added: “Through this agreement, we aspire to localize advanced technologies and develop national talent; efforts that will accelerate AI-driven digital transformation across vital sectors and reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a leader in digital transformation in the region.”

The collaboration aims to accelerate AI-driven digital transformation across mission-critical sectors, including energy, petrochemicals, utilities, mining, logistics, and higher education, enabling enterprises to enhance operational performance, boost energy efficiency, and advance sustainability goals.

In addition to technology deployment, the partnership will feature local investment, capability building, and workforce training, with a structured roadmap toward establishing a future joint venture that positions Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for industrial AI innovation.

Omar Saleh, chief executive officer of Echelon Digital Group, said: “Our partnership with Elutions aligns with our mission to localize advanced global technologies and empower enterprises across Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. Through this collaboration, we aim to accelerate digital innovation and transformation across strategic sectors — with our work in Saudi Arabia directly supporting the ambitions of Vision 2030.” 

Paul Doucas, chief operating officer and principal owner of Elutions, said: “Elutions’ Maestro AI platform has a proven track record of delivering measurable outcomes; from 15 to 30 percent energy efficiency improvements to up to 25 percent productivity gains. By combining these capabilities with Echelon Digital’s local presence and deep market understanding, we aim to empower Saudi enterprises to realize the full potential of AI at scale.”

Echelon Digital Group is a leading technology company headquartered regionally in Saudi Arabia, focused on accelerating digital innovation and enabling organizations across the region to achieve sustainable transformation. Leveraging its deep regional expertise and diverse global partnerships, Echelon delivers integrated solutions that help businesses create tangible value, enhance operational efficiency, and accelerate the transition towards a knowledge-based digital economy.

Elutions, based in the United States, is a global leader in artificial intelligence. The company’s proprietary Maestro platform is an advanced neural network capable of analyzing complex enterprise systems, diagnosing operational anomalies, and recommending immediate corrective actions.

According to the Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), AI is expected to contribute over $135 billion to the Saudi economy by 2030, representing about 12.4% of national GDP. With Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector accounting for nearly 40% of non-oil GDP, initiatives like this partnership will play a vital role in enhancing competitiveness and supporting national programs such as Vision 2030 and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP).

Elutions’ Maestro AI platform has been successfully implemented by major global industrial clients, delivering 15-30% energy-efficiency improvements, up to 25% productivity gains, and 10-20% reductions in unplanned downtime. These proven results will help Saudi enterprises achieve tangible operational and sustainability outcomes as they adopt AI at scale.

For more information, visit echelondigital.com.

Media Contact

Ayman Hassan
ayman@jummar.co

The Global Kratom Coalition (GKC) today praised Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services for moving to classify concentrated or isolated, synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I narcotic, making it illegal to sell, possess, or distribute in the Commonwealth. The rule limits the allowable concentrations of 7-OH to 400 parts per million (0.04%) by dry weight, effectively removing concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products from the market while leaving natural kratom leaf unaffected. 

This decisive step follows the July 29th, 2025, actions taken by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which recommended the scheduling of concentrated synthetic 7-OH to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Following this, on August 13th, 2025, James Uthmeier, Attorney General of Florida, issued an emergency rule that immediately classified concentrated synthetic 7‑hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I controlled substance. Both the FDA and Florida’s rule explicitly distinguish natural kratom leaf from synthetic 7-OH, confirming that natural kratom leaf products are not the focus of these scheduling actions

“This is a major step forward for consumer safety,” said Matthew Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Kratom Coalition. “Governor Beshear and his administration are protecting Kentuckians from dangerous, concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products, while preserving access to natural kratom leaf, a botanical with safe consumption for more than 50 years in the U.S. by more than 23 million Americans. This is exactly the kind of leadership we need across the country.”

Unlike concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products, natural kratom leaf contains only trace amounts of natural 7-hydroxymitragynine. Millions of adults use natural kratom leaf products responsibly for its functional benefits. Conversely, concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products are potent by design, containing synthetic 7-OH at more than 100 times the level found in natural kratom leaf. The result is a novel opioid 13 times stronger than morphine -- this presents a high risk for addiction, respiratory depression and death.

The Global Kratom Coalition urges other states to follow Kentucky’s example -- protect public health by scheduling concentrated synthetic 7-OH, while protecting access to natural kratom leaf.

About Global Kratom Coalition (GKC)

The Global Kratom Coalition is an alliance of natural 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.

Media Contact

Patrick George
info@globalkratomcoalition.org

The Stop Gas Station Heroin coalition today praised Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear for taking emergency action to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) as a Schedule I narcotic. The rule limits the allowable concentrations of 7-OH to 400 parts per million (0.04%) by dry weight, effectively removing concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products from the market while leaving natural kratom leaf unaffected. =

Governor Beshear’s move marks a critical step toward curbing the spread of "gas station heroin" — a category of often imported, lab-made street drugs that include semi-synthetic and synthetic alkaloid products, tianeptine and nitrous oxide.

While natural 7-OH occurs naturally in only trace amounts in the kratom leaf, the concentrated synthetic opioid products sold in gas stations, smoke shops, and convenience stores nationwide bear little resemblance to the kratom plant. Instead, illicit manufacturers are mass-producing highly concentrated, hyper-potent synthetic 7-OH isolates — sold as tablets and gummies — that are more than 13 times more potent than morphine.

“Kentucky’s enforcement actions send a strong message that concentrated synthetic 7-OH opioid products have no place in American communities,” said David Bregger, Executive Director of Stop Gas Station Heroin. “These synthetic drugs are misleadingly marketed as natural kratom, wellness supplements, or everyday snacks and beverages, however these lab-made opioid products function like hard narcotics — posing significant risks of addiction, respiratory suppression, and overdose.”

Kentucky’s actions follow the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommendation in July for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to schedule concentrated synthetic 7-OH as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier also issued an emergency scheduling order in August for concentrated synthetic 7OH.

The FDA, Florida, and now Kentucky have made clear that these measures do not target the centuries-old kratom leaf, which has an established safety profile and is consumed safely by about 23 million Americans.

“Kentucky’s action is another step forward in protecting Americans from manufacturers peddling lab-made street drugs and fueling for-profit addiction,” said Bregger. “With Kentucky now joining Florida and the FDA in cracking down on concentrated synthetic 7-OH, states are uniting to stop the deceptive, dangerous practices fueling the Gas Station Heroin epidemic and harming our children.”

Stop Gas Station Heroin applauds these leaders on the state and federal levels for using their enforcement authority to hold illicit companies accountable. The coalition also urges other states to follow Kentucky’s lead and keep synthetic drugs off the market.

To learn more about Stop Gas Station Heroin and its mission, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com.

About Stop Gas Station Heroin

Stop Gas Station Heroin is a national coalition that aims to educate consumers about harmful synthetic drugs and advocate for smart regulation that distinguishes between legitimate, natural botanicals and dangerous, synthetic drugs, combined with enforcement of current federal laws around unapproved drugs. To learn more, navigate to stopgasstationheroin.com.

Media Contact

Media Contact
info@stopgasstationheroin.com

Hills Machinery is pleased to announce it has partnered with Ammann America to add new capabilities to the Hills Machinery Construction Equipment Division serving South Carolina and North Carolina. Hills Machinery is now an authorized dealer for the company’s compaction equipment and will be supported by the Hills Machinery branches located throughout North and South Carolina.

Ammann America is a sixth generation, family-owned business that is known in the industry as a leading manufacturer of soil and asphalt compactors and asphalt pavers, as well as light equipment such as vibratory plates and walk-behind rollers.

“Ammann America shares our commitment to providing high-quality equipment and exceptional service and support. With this partnership, we can strengthen our offering of compaction solutions to meet our customers’ needs,” said Jim Hills, president at Hills Machinery. “We look forward to a long and prosperous relationship that will benefit our customers, the industry and our companies.”

Mike Conley, director of sales and distribution development at Ammann America, added, “Hills Machinery has built a strong reputation for customer service and industry expertise. Their deep regional presence and commitment to supporting contractors aligns perfectly with Ammann’s goal of delivering dependable, high-performance equipment and exceptional support across North and South Carolina.”

About Hills Machinery

Founded in 2007 by brothers Jim and Adam Hills, Hills Machinery is a full-service equipment partner with dedicated industry experts leading the construction, paving, and environmental equipment divisions. Hills Machinery offers complete end-to-end solutions including new and used equipment sales, financing support, equipment rental, 24/7 service and support and robust parts availability. The company also has a collaborative fleet management program — Uptime Operations, where a dedicated team of equipment experts monitor machine performance and health in real-time, manage preventive maintenance and aid in downtime prevention. Hills Machinery also operates a 24/7 paving, aggregate, and environmental group that specializes in the repair and uptime of heavy and support equipment. Hills Machinery serves customers across South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia with 13 locations. For more information, visit www.hillsmachinery.com.

About Ammann America

Ammann is a sixth generation, family-owned business that produces asphalt and concrete mixing plants, compactors and asphalt pavers at manufacturing sites around the world. Its core expertise is roadbuilding and transportation infrastructure. Ammann America, the company’s North American division, is headquartered in Orlando and recently opened a 160,000-square-foot asphalt plant factory in Florence, Kentucky. The North American machines division is headquartered in Columbia, South Carolina. Visit www.ammann.com for company-related information.

Media Contact

Tim Wirtz
tim@pkamar.com
+1 865-266-3930

21M Insurance, among the world’s first crypto-native insurance institutions, today announced a strategic partnership with Cobo, a leading provider of digital-asset custody and infrastructure. The collaboration delivers institutional-grade safeguards for 21M’s Bitcoin-denominated whole-life policies and operating infrastructure — including its AI-powered underwriting and risk management engine — marking a significant step forward for blockchain-native insurance infrastructure.

Following the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024 — one of the most successful ETF launches on record—institutional demand for BTC exposure has accelerated. Yet traditional insurers, constrained by regulatory capital frameworks, balance-sheet limitations, and legacy technology, have been unable to serve this segment. Against this backdrop, 21M and Cobo are partnering to build a compliant, blockchain-native operating model with asset safety as the first principle for a trillion-dollar insurance market opportunity.

Under the agreement, Cobo will initially provide custody for the assets backing 21M’s BTC-denominated whole-life policies. As the business scales, the scope will expand to management of tokenized policy assets and to the custody and flow-of-funds controls supporting lending protocols. Cobo’s institutional-grade custody platform will furnish multi-layer security controls, flexible permissioning, and transparent asset tracking—delivering the highest level of protection for policyholders’ Bitcoin while aligning with stringent requirements across major jurisdictions. These capabilities mitigate single-point-of-failure risks in insurance asset management and create a highly secure, transparent, and efficient policyholder environment.

Mr. 21, chief executive officer of 21M Insurance, said:

“As one of the world’s first crypto-native insurance institutions, partnering with a top-tier custodian like Cobo — with a zero-incident track record — is the cornerstone of safeguarding policyholder assets. Technical and regulatory constraints have kept traditional insurers out of Bitcoin insurance, creating a unique structural moat for 21M. Through deep collaboration with Cobo, we are building a secure, transparent, and efficient blockchain-native insurance ecosystem — one that truly scales with Bitcoin adoption. This is not just product innovation; it is a paradigm shift in the industry’s core infrastructure.”

Discus Fish, Cobo’s co-founder and CEO said:

“In digital-asset insurance, institutions need more than technology — they need trust, security, and forward-looking infrastructure. Our partnership with 21M reflects Cobo’s ‘Beyond Custody’ vision. We aim to provide the durable foundation for BTC life insurance to scale with resilience and operational excellence, ushering in a blockchain-native era for the insurance industry.”

Backed by Cobo’s custody services, 21M expects to expand its global insurance footprint more confidently, reinforcing its first-mover advantage in digital-asset insurance. Cobo will continue to deliver secure, compliant, high-performance custody solutions for institutions worldwide, advancing innovation across insurance and digital-asset infrastructure.

About 21M Insurance

21M Insurance is committed to becoming one of the world’s first blockchain-native insurance institutions, backed by prominent family offices and high-net-worth individuals. The company plans to launch crypto-denominated insurance products. Leveraging its AI-powered underwriting and risk management engine, 21M is building next-generation insurance infrastructure spanning whole-life coverage, asset protection, and wealth management to unlock a trillion-dollar digital-asset insurance market. 21M Insurance is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pacific Digital Alliance. For more information, visit 21minsurance.com.

About Cobo

Cobo is a trusted leader in digital-asset custody and wallet infrastructure, providing an all-in-one platform for organizations and developers to build, automate, and securely scale their digital-asset businesses. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore, Cobo is trusted by more than 500 leading digital-asset businesses globally, safeguarding billions of dollars in assets. Today, Cobo offers the industry’s only unified wallet platform that integrates four wallet technologies — custodial wallets, MPC wallets, smart-contract wallets, and exchange wallets. Committed to the highest security standards and regulatory compliance, Cobo maintains a zero-incident track record and holds ISO 27001 and SOC 2 (Type I and Type II) certifications, as well as licenses in multiple jurisdictions. Recognized for its industry-leading innovations, Cobo has received accolades fromHedgeweek and Global Custodian. For more information, www.cobo.com.

Media Contact

21M Insurance
investor.relations@pacificdigitalalliance.com

Cobo Media Relations
hello@cobo.com

Varadia SE will once again submit a motion for a special audit pursuant to Section 142 (1) of the German Stock Corporation Act (AktG) at the upcoming Annual General Meeting of Advanced Blockchain AG (ABAG). A corresponding motion had already been filed at the Annual General Meeting on October 20, 2025, which was adjourned without any resolutions being passed.

In Varadia SE’s view, there remains a substantial need for clarification concerning the actions of the Management Board and the Supervisory Board of ABAG in the preparation, audit, and approval of the annual financial statements as of December 31, 2024. According to Varadia SE, certain circumstances raise reasonable suspicion that irregularities or violations of statutory provisions may have occurred in this context. 

The company’s auditor issued only a qualified audit opinion on ABAG’s annual financial statements. No audit opinion was provided with respect to the balance sheet item “Receivables from affiliated companies,” amounting to approximately EUR 10 million, which is material to the company’s financial position. 

The requested special audit aims to examine and clarify the circumstances surrounding the qualified audit opinion and the conduct of the Management Board and Supervisory Board in connection with the financial statements, thereby promoting transparency and strengthening shareholder confidence in the company’s proper and diligent corporate governance. 

The special audit motion previously submitted, as well as Varadia SE’s counterproposals, are available in the newsroom at www.varadia.de/#news.

Disclaimer

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy any securities. The statements contained herein reflect the current views and assessments of Varadia SE based on publicly available information as of the date of publication. While Varadia SE is a shareholder of Advanced Blockchain AG, it does not represent or speak on behalf of the company. All information is provided without warranty for completeness or accuracy.

Media Contact

Cedric Albeke
info@varadia.de