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The divide between German thoroughness and Anglo-American speed represents one of global business's most persistent cultural tensions. Where Silicon Valley startups proudly launch minimum viable products and iterate rapidly, many German firms prioritize comprehensive planning before market entry. This philosophical difference, though far from universal, continues to shape international commerce, creating both friction and opportunity in an increasingly interconnected economy.

Yet reducing this to simple stereotypes misses crucial nuance. Germany hosts thriving startup ecosystems in Berlin and Munich, while American aerospace and pharmaceutical companies exemplify Germanic meticulousness in their decades-long development cycles. Understanding these tendencies requires examining their historical roots, current manifestations, and evolving future.

Historical Foundations: More Than Stereotypes

Germany's reputation for engineering excellence emerged from specific historical circumstances. The post-war Wirtschaftswunder (economic miracle) demanded products that could compete globally based on quality rather than price. Companies like Volkswagen, Siemens, and Bosch built their international reputations on products designed for long-term reliability, turning the ‘Made in Germany’ label into a symbol of trust. This was not merely a preference but an economic necessity for a small, war-damaged nation that needed to maximize the value of every export.

The data supports this strategic focus. According to Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI), German companies hold 16% of global mechanical engineering markets despite representing only 1% of the global population. The Fraunhofer Institute reports that German manufacturing defect rates average 3.4 per million opportunities, compared to 6.8 in the United States and 8.2 in the United Kingdom. German products command price premiums averaging 20% above global competitors, according to Roland Berger analysis, justified by superior reliability and longevity.

This focus on quality extends beyond manufacturing. The German Mittelstand—small and medium-sized enterprises forming the economy's backbone—often dominate narrow global niches through exhaustive specialization. Screw manufacturer Würth controls 40% of the global market for specialized fasteners, while Krones holds 25% of the bottling equipment market. These hidden champions succeeded through patient refinement, not rapid expansion.

However, painting all German businesses with the same brush ignores significant exceptions. Berlin-based incubator Rocket Internet built its empire by rapidly cloning successful American business models. Founder Oliver Samwer explicitly rejected traditional German methodicism: "There's nothing wrong with copying if you execute better." Zalando revolutionized European e-commerce through aggressive experimentation and market testing, burning through €2 billion before achieving profitability—anathema to traditional German business philosophy. Fintech startup N26 achieved unicorn status by iterating quickly rather than perfecting slowly, launching in new markets within weeks rather than years.

Similarly, characterizing all Anglo-American firms as "move fast and break things" adherents overlooks numerous counterexamples. Boeing typically spends 7 to 10 years developing new aircraft models, with the 787 Dreamliner alone requiring over $32 billion in development costs over a decade. Johnson & Johnson averages 12 years to bring pharmaceuticals to market, conducting trials with ‘Germanic’ thoroughness. General Electric's gas turbines undergo thousands of hours of testing, with individual components assessed for 30-year lifecycles. These companies succeed through meticulous planning, not Silicon Valley speed.

Contemporary Manifestations: A Spectrum, Not a Binary

Modern business practices reveal a spectrum of approaches rather than a simple dichotomy. Research by INSEAD business school examining 500 product launches across industries found that German companies averaged 24 months from conception to market, while American firms averaged 14 months, and British companies 16 months. Yet variance within countries often exceeded variance between them: German software companies averaged just 8 months, while American medical device manufacturers averaged 36 months.

The automotive industry illustrates this complexity perfectly. Traditional German automakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW typically maintain five to seven-year development cycles for new models, with extensive testing protocols covering millions of kilometers. American electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla compresses this to two to three years through rapid prototyping and over-the-air updates. Yet Volkswagen's new electric vehicle division, led by former BMW executive Herbert Diess, deliberately adopted Tesla-style agility, launching the ID.3 in just three years. Meanwhile, Ford's electric F-150 underwent traditional lengthy testing, including 500,000 miles of durability trials in extreme conditions.

Software development shows even greater nuance. Germany's software giant SAP built its dominance through comprehensive enterprise solutions requiring extensive customization and implementation projects often spanning 18–24 months. Yet younger German software companies like Celonis and Personio embrace agile methodologies and continuous deployment, pushing updates weekly rather than annually. Meanwhile, American financial software companies like Intuit combine rapid feature releases with ‘Germanic’ attention to accuracy and compliance, understanding that tax software errors carry severe consequences.

The startup ecosystem challenges traditional narratives. Berlin now ranks among Europe's top startup hubs, with German venture capital investments reaching €17.4 billion in 2023, according to EY research, representing a 300% increase from 2018. Many startups embrace fail-fast methodologies. Delivery Hero, Germany's food delivery giant, expanded to 50 countries through rapid market entry and quick pivots. Conversely, Silicon Valley increasingly recognizes that some sectors, such as healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and financial services, require more ‘Germanic’ thoroughness to navigate regulatory requirements and safety concerns. Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving subsidiary, has spent over 15 years and $30 billion developing its technology, rejecting pressure for premature commercialization.

Cross-Border Challenges: Where Cultures Collide

Cultural differences create real challenges in international collaboration, often manifesting in unexpected ways. McKinsey's 2023 survey of 200 cross-border joint ventures found 67% of German-Anglo partnerships cited "planning methodology differences" as primary friction points. German respondents reported frustration with what they perceived as inadequate preparation, while Anglo-American partners felt constrained by excessive analysis. These differences extend beyond planning and bureaucracy to communication styles, decision-making processes, and risk assessment frameworks.

A senior executive at a major German automotive supplier, speaking on condition of anonymity, described partnering with a British technology firm: "They wanted to start coding immediately and refine through customer feedback. Our engineers insisted on complete specifications first. We spent three months arguing about the development process before writing a single line of code. Both sides thought the other was being unreasonable."

These tensions manifest in measurable outcomes. European Business Review research found that German-American joint ventures took 40% longer to reach initial milestones than partnerships between culturally-similar nations, though they showed 25% lower failure rates after five years. This suggests that navigating cultural differences, while initially challenging, may produce more robust outcomes. The study tracked 150 partnerships from 2015–2023, finding that successful collaborations explicitly acknowledged and planned for cultural differences, creating hybrid processes that leveraged both approaches.

The COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly highlighted these differences. Oxford University and AstraZeneca developed their vaccine through rapid iteration and parallel processing, a classic Anglo-American approach, conducting multiple trial phases simultaneously. BioNTech, the German company behind the Pfizer vaccine, maintained systematic development stages despite unprecedented urgency, though they compressed timelines through 24/7 operations. Both succeeded, demonstrating that different methodologies can achieve similar endpoints. Interestingly, BioNTech's Turkish-German founders, Uğur Şahin and Özlem Türeci, credited their success to combining German precision with entrepreneurial agility—a conscious cultural synthesis.

Institutional Factors: Why Differences Persist

Cultural business practices do not exist in isolation but emerge from broader institutional contexts. Germany's dual education system, combining classroom learning with apprenticeships, produces workers deeply trained in specific crafts. Approximately 1.3 million Germans enter apprenticeships annually, spending three to four years mastering particular skills. This creates a workforce oriented toward expertise and precision rather than flexibility and generalization.

Capital markets also reinforce cultural differences. German companies rely heavily on bank financing, with relationship banking encouraging long-term stability over rapid growth. The Hausbank system, where companies maintain decades-long relationships with primary banks, provides patient capital supporting methodical development. American firms, conversely, depend more on equity markets that demand quarterly results, incentivizing faster product cycles and visible progress. British markets fall between these extremes, with London's financial sector providing diverse funding options but emphasizing shorter-term returns than German banks.

Regulatory environments further shape business approaches. Germany's extensive worker protection laws, including (almost) mandatory works councils in companies with over 500 employees (if workers want it), necessitate thorough planning for changes. Codetermination laws requiring employee representation on supervisory boards mean German firms must build consensus before major decisions. American at-will employment and minimal consultation requirements enable rapid pivots. These structural differences make German companies more deliberate and American firms more agile.

Evolving Practices: Convergence and Differentiation

Globalization drives both convergence and differentiation in business practices. Multinational corporations increasingly adopt hybrid approaches, tailoring methodologies to specific challenges. German industrial giant Siemens maintains traditional thoroughness for critical infrastructure projects while embracing startup-style innovation labs for digital ventures. Their Next47 venture unit operates with Silicon Valley velocity, investing in startups and rapidly prototyping new technologies, while the core business remains methodical.

Academic research supports this hybridization trend. Professor Andreas Engelen from the University of Düsseldorf studied 150 German companies entering international markets between 2015–2023. He found successful firms consciously adapted their approach based on market context: maintaining German precision for technical products while adopting Anglo-American speed for consumer services. Companies that rigidly maintained home-country practices showed 35% lower international success rates than adaptive firms.

The data suggests younger generations may accelerate this convergence. A 2024 Deloitte survey of business students found that German respondents increasingly valued "adaptability" and "speed to market," while American and British students showed growing appreciation for "quality" and "long-term thinking." This generational shift could reshape national business cultures over coming decades, though institutional inertia may slow change.

Strategic Synthesis: Leveraging Both Approaches

Rather than viewing ‘German thoroughness’ and ‘Anglo-American speed’ as incompatible, successful organizations leverage both strategically. Amazon applies Germanic precision to its logistics infrastructure, planning fulfillment centers with obsessive detail while maintaining startup agility in service development. Their two-pizza teams can launch features within weeks, but warehouse automation projects undergo years of optimization.

German sportswear giant Adidas combines traditional product quality with rapid fashion cycles learned from American competitors. Their Speedfactory initiative attempted fully automated, localized production, enabling two-week concept-to-customer cycles—radical for a German manufacturer. Though ultimately discontinued, the experiment demonstrated German companies' willingness to challenge cultural defaults.

Consulting firm Roland Berger analyzed 50 successful cross-border acquisitions and identified key success factors. Companies that explicitly acknowledged cultural differences during integration planning showed 2.3 times higher success rates than those assuming cultural alignment. Most successful acquirers created dual-track processes: maintaining target company practices where speed mattered, while implementing their own standards where reliability was paramount. Cisco's acquisition of German company Kalpana succeeded by maintaining German engineering standards while accelerating market entry timelines.

Future Trajectories: Technology and Sustainability

Looking ahead, technological and environmental trends may reshape cultural business practices. Artificial intelligence and automation could reduce the speed-quality trade-off by enabling rapid iteration with fewer errors. Digital twins allow Germanic-style testing without slowing physical development. BMW uses digital twins to simulate millions of driving scenarios before building prototypes, combining thoroughness with speed. Agile methodologies, originally from software, increasingly influence traditional manufacturing, with Bosch implementing sprint-based development, even for physical products.

Climate change and sustainability demands may favor German-style long-term thinking. The European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive requires companies to consider multi-decade impacts, potentially spreading German planning culture globally. Tesla's success partly stems from Elon Musk's ‘Germanic’ obsession with manufacturing efficiency combined with Silicon Valley innovation speed, suggesting sustainability leaders need both approaches.

Conclusion: Embracing Complexity

The narrative of German thoroughness versus Anglo-American speed contains truth but obscures greater complexity. While cultural tendencies persist, influenced by historical legacies and institutional structures, successful companies increasingly transcend simple categorization. Modern business success requires cultural fluency, understanding when to apply which approach rather than dogmatically following one philosophy.

For international business practitioners, competitive advantage lies not in perfecting one approach but in fluidly moving between them. Companies that can be thoroughly ‘German’ when reliability matters and boldly experimental when speed counts will likely outperform those locked into single methodologies. As borders blur and businesses globalize, the winners will not be those who are most ‘German’ or ‘American’, but those sophisticated enough to be both, and neither, as circumstances demand.

Article provided by Thim Werner, CEO of BDG.

Meey Group, a pioneering force in Vietnam's real estate digital transformation, is accelerating its international IPO journey. In early October, the Group launched a series of strategic initiatives in the United States and Singapore, engaging with leading global financial and technology institutions. These moves underscore the firm's determination to integrate Vietnamese technology enterprises into the global capital markets and realize its vision of transparent and sustainable international listing.

Connecting with Global Capital Markets

On Oct. 7, Meey Group’s leadership team undertook a business mission to the United States, engaging with international partners across technology, finance, and advisory sectors. Notably, the delegation held meetings at Nasdaq MarketSite headquarters in New York to gain insights into international capital market operations, transparent information disclosure requirements, and governance standards for technology enterprises.

Hoang Mai Chung, chairman of the board of Meey Group, affirmed: “The IPO represents a strategic turning point in terms of positioning and credibility for Meey Group. This is a transformation process from a growth-stage technology company to an internationally standardized corporation — transparent, sustainable, and globally competitive.”

During the preparation phase, Meey Group has partnered with Loeb & Loeb LLP (USA) and YKVN (Vietnam), two leading law firms providing comprehensive legal advisory throughout the IPO process; alongside Marcum Asia, an international auditing firm with extensive expertise in the technology sector; and quality certification organizations including TÜV Nord (Germany) and the British Standards Institution (UK). Through these partnerships, Meey Group has perfected its governance system according to international standards, obtaining ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management and ISO/IEC 27001 for information security, establishing a foundation for transparency and operational reliability.

Previously, on Oct. 3, Meey Group’s leadership participated in the Investor Track event organized by Golden Gate Ventures, a leading Southeast Asian venture capital fund, in Singapore. This forum brought together international investment funds, global technology corporations, and promising enterprises from the region.

At the event, Meey Group representatives had the opportunity to meet and exchange with senior leaders from world-leading corporations and numerous strategic investment funds. Significantly, Meey Group was the only Vietnamese technology enterprise present at this gathering, affirming its position and the international investment community’s interest in the comprehensive proptech ecosystem that Meey Group is building.

According to company representatives, participation in major financial forums enables Meey Group to directly access international investment networks, expand collaboration opportunities, and strengthen the image of Vietnamese technology enterprises in the eyes of the global financial community. This also provides a crucial foundation for Meey Group to progressively realize its international IPO roadmap, which has been planned well in advance.

The presence of Vietnamese technology enterprises at major global financial centers demonstrates a clear shift in integration mindset and the capacity to meet international standards. Meey Group’s proactive establishment of relationships with global financial institutions and certification organizations represents a critical foundation for advancing closer to the goal of listing on international markets.

Thorough Preparation for the Journey “Beyond Borders”

Meey Group has defined its international IPO as a long-term strategy, aimed at both expanding capital resources for development and elevating governance capabilities and transparency according to global standards. This proptech enterprise is implementing a methodical preparation roadmap, strictly adhering to international standards, with the objective of building a modern governance system that ensures confidence among domestic and international investors.

On its journey to expand scale and capabilities, Meey Group continues to develop a comprehensive proptech ecosystem, targeting the complete digitalization of Vietnam’s real estate value chain.

From its startup phase, Meey Group has identified technology and data as core values across its entire real estate financial technology ecosystem. Meey Group’s products, including Meey Map, Meey CRM, Meey 3D, Meey Atlas, and others, serve as tools for transactions, management, and providing data solutions, valuation, and market forecasting, creating unprecedented transparency in Vietnam’s real estate sector. The company's products have been deployed across numerous provinces and cities domestically and are gradually expanding throughout Southeast Asia.

The integration of AI into management, transactions, and real estate data analysis has enabled high automation rates, enhanced user experience, and improved operational efficiency. Investment in core technology platforms provides the foundation for Meey Group’s readiness to expand regionally and globally.

Chung shared: “The international IPO is an opportunity for Meey Group to introduce itself to the international investment community, demonstrate Vietnam’s technological capabilities, and commit to sustainable development. We are focused on upgrading governance standards, operating transparently, and professionalizing the entire system according to global standards.”

From a startup in the real estate technology sector, Meey Group is transforming into a technology corporation with international vision, laying the groundwork for a Vietnamese proptech model deeply integrated into global financial and technology markets. With its international IPO strategy, the enterprise has affirmed its internal capabilities and demonstrated the pioneering role of Vietnamese enterprises in the digital economy era.

Media Contact

Khanh Pham
truyenthong@meeyland.com

As Iceland’s low-cost airline Fly Play abruptly ceases operations, thousands of travelers have found their Icelandic adventures suddenly on hold. In response, Campervan Iceland, one of the country’s leading camper rental companies, has announced a customer-first policy designed to ease the disruption.

“Even if your reservation was non-refundable, we’re allowing customers to keep their booking fee for up to one year and use it toward a future trip,” said a spokesperson for Campervan Iceland. “We know many visitors have been dreaming of exploring Iceland’s landscapes for months — and we don’t want that dream to be lost because of an airline’s bankruptcy.”

Fly Play, founded in 2019, had become a popular option for travelers seeking affordable flights to Iceland and transatlantic routes to Europe and North America. The airline officially ceased operations on September 29, 2025, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and disrupting travel plans for many who had booked tours, hotels, and rental vehicles across the island.

Campervan Iceland’s decision to implement flexible rebooking options comes at a critical moment for Iceland’s tourism industry — a sector that relies heavily on international visitors and seasonal flight routes. By allowing travelers to rebook their campervan rentals within the next 12 months at no extra cost, the company aims to help visitors keep their Iceland plans alive despite the current uncertainty.

“Our priority is simple: to stand by travelers during uncertain times,” the spokesperson added. “This is not just about bookings — it’s about keeping trust and hope alive for those who still want to experience Iceland.”

Industry experts have noted that Fly Play’s collapse highlights the volatility of post-pandemic air travel, especially among low-cost carriers facing high fuel prices and seasonal fluctuations. Despite these challenges, Iceland’s tourism sector has shown resilience, supported by strong domestic operators such as Campervan Iceland, which continue to adapt to global travel disruptions with customer-oriented solutions.

“Iceland has faced many external shocks over the past decade — from volcanic eruptions to economic turbulence — yet its appeal as a destination remains strong,” said the spokesperson. “We believe that by showing flexibility and understanding, we can help maintain travelers’ confidence and contribute to Iceland’s reputation as a welcoming and reliable destination.”

Campervan Iceland’s initiative has been well received by both domestic and international travelers. The company encourages affected customers to reach out directly via its website or customer service channels to discuss rebooking options. It also advises passengers who booked through travel agencies or used credit cards to contact their providers for potential compensation regarding flight cancellations.

By taking a proactive stance, Campervan Iceland not only supports its customers but also reinforces the collaborative spirit that defines Iceland’s tourism ecosystem — where airlines, local operators, and travelers share the same goal: keeping Iceland open and accessible to the world.

About Campervan Iceland

Campervan Iceland is a leading camper rental company offering travelers the freedom to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes at their own pace. With a diverse fleet of modern, fully equipped campervans and motorhomes, the company provides an all-in-one travel experience for adventure seekers year-round. Committed to comfort, safety and sustainability, Campervan Iceland helps visitors discover Iceland’s natural wonders — from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanoes and hot springs — with flexibility and peace of mind. For more information, visit www.campervaniceland.com.

Customers affected by the Fly Play bankruptcy are encouraged to contact Campervan Iceland directly by email or telephone, where the company’s support team is prioritizing all related inquiries. The company has reinforced its customer service capacity to ensure every affected traveler receives personalized assistance and a swift response, reflecting its ongoing commitment to transparency and care.

Media Contact

Campervan Iceland
info@campervaniceland.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that Jaclyn Mason of The HEIDER Company at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty has joined the platform as a Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in Boston, representing the 20016 ZIP code. Mason joins other Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues, notably Daniel Heider and Melanie Hayes of The HEIDER Company.

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

Unlisted uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These records can be quickly searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria. Though the properties are not for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for their favorite homes, creating new possibilities for buyers and agents to connect and giving homeowners options they may not have considered.

Each vetted real estate professional that partners with Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, highlighting their expertise and credibility in that market. As Unlisted continues to expand this network nationwide, the goal remains the same: to provide buyers, homeowners, and agents with a platform built on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

Jaclyn Mason, a Washington native and Principal of Mason Design LLC, brings a unique blend of real estate expertise, artistic sensibility, and deep local knowledge to the nation’s capital. Specializing in luxury sales across Northwest DC, Jaclyn combines her background in art and interior design with extensive market insight to guide clients with sophistication and precision. Her track record includes landmark sales in Georgetown, Kalorama, Spring Valley, and Wesley Heights, along with industry recognition such as Best of Zillow and the GCAAR Sales Award. Licensed in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, Jaclyn is known for her professionalism, integrity, and design-driven approach to helping clients achieve their goals.

“My passion is helping clients find not only the right home, but the right fit for their lifestyle and vision,” said Mason. “Unlisted gives me another way to be a resource for homeowners and buyers in DC, opening the door to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden.”

“Jaclyn’s reputation as a trusted leader in Washington real estate is matched by her commitment to excellence and community. We’re proud to have her represent ZIP code 20016 on Unlisted.” 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 Jaclyn Mason, visit her Unlisted Profile or her website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale—in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) has launched the Global Audit Committee Center in Washington, D.C., positioning it as a first-of-its-kind global hub for strengthening audit committees, shaping regulations, and equipping members with advisory tools, best practices, and training.

The initiative comes amid what the IIA described as a “critical gap” in resources for audit committee members, particularly standardized policies, oversight training, and frameworks that help boards navigate their fiduciary responsibilities. By centralizing guidance, the Center aims to enhance board effectiveness and reinforce corporate governance worldwide.

As part of the rollout, the IIA appointed Abdullah Saleh Alshebeili, the CEO of the Saudi Authority of Internal Auditors and Secretary-General of the Arab Confederation of Internal Auditors, as Chairman of the Center’s board. His appointment underscores the IIA’s intent to bring together subject-matter experts from across the globe to strengthen audit committee structures, reinforce governance frameworks, and advance international best practices.

The Center’s initial focus will be on roughly 1,500 audit committee members within Fortune 500 companies, a key segment of an estimated global base of 165,000. Plans call for expansion through partnerships with professional institutes and associations, with training delivered in multiple languages to broaden accessibility.

The IIA said the Center will provide strategic guidance, curated educational resources, and high-level events designed to boost board confidence and strengthen ties between audit committees and internal audit executives. The launch also reflects priorities set out in the Internal Audit Vision 2035, which urges closer alignment between audit committees and internal audit executives.

By establishing the Center in Washington, the IIA is betting that a more structured approach to oversight will gain traction among global boards, particularly as investors and regulators press for higher standards of governance.

Media Contact

Ahmed Gari
info@iaicdacademy.org

From packed stadiums to bustling downtown streets, major sports events have long played a pivotal role in the Washington, D.C. area. Beyond the excitement of game day, these events drive significant economic activity, influence urban development, and reshape how residents and visitors experience the city. Understanding their impact offers a window into the region’s evolving landscape.

Economic Ripple Effects on Sports Events

When a marquee sports event comes to town, the effects reach far beyond the field. Hotels fill up, restaurants see a surge in business, and local transportation systems experience higher demand. The recent Washington Commanders stadium deal approved by the D.C. Council highlights the significant economic impact major sports events and developments can have on the Washington, D.C. area, reshaping local sports entertainment and urban development. Large-scale events often create thousands of temporary jobs and can generate millions in tax revenue, benefiting city budgets and supporting public services.

Changing Fan Engagement and Local Businesses

Sports fans in the D.C. region are increasingly engaging with their favorite teams in new and diverse ways. While attending games in person remains a cherished tradition, many now participate remotely through digital platforms, live streams, and interactive experiences. This shift has encouraged local businesses to adapt, offering special promotions and watch parties to capture the attention of fans who might not make it to the stadium. Additionally, some audiences are exploring sports beyond traditional venues, including alternative platforms such as offshore sports betting, reflecting evolving fan engagement habits and the broader diversification of sports-related activities.

Urban Development and Community Identity

Major sports events and new stadium projects often serve as catalysts for urban renewal and community pride. Investments in infrastructure, public transit, and neighborhood amenities frequently accompany these developments, leading to lasting improvements for residents. The presence of high-profile teams and events also helps shape the city’s identity, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience among diverse communities. As Washington continues to grow as a sports destination, the interplay between economic opportunity and civic engagement remains a defining feature of the region’s future.

In the end, the influence of major sports events in Washington, D.C. extends well beyond the scoreboard. They energize Washington's local economy, inspire innovation in fan engagement, and contribute to the city’s ongoing transformation as a vibrant, connected community. Exploring these impacts offers valuable insight into how sports continue to shape the capital’s story.

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that Jessica Duncan of Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty has joined the platform as a Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in Florida, representing the following ZIP codes: 32503, 32533, 32561, 32563, 32566, 32571, and 32583. Duncan joins several other Sotheby’s International Realty Agents across the nation.

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

Unlisted uses publicly available data to create a digital property profile for every home in the country. These records can be quickly searched and organized into curated lists of homes that meet a buyer’s criteria. Though not for sale, buyers can join a Waitlist for their favorite homes, creating new possibilities for buyers and agents to connect and giving homeowners options they may not have considered.

Each vetted real estate professional that partners with Unlisted receives an agent profile linked to every home in their ZIP code. Only one agent is selected per ZIP, highlighting their expertise and credibility in that market. As Unlisted continues to expand this network nationwide, the goal remains the same: to provide buyers, homeowners, and agents with a platform built on connection, expertise, and meaningful insights.

Jessica Duncan has built a trusted presence along Florida’s Gulf Coast, blending deep local roots with sharp strategic insight to guide clients through life’s biggest transitions. A Pensacola native with formal training in marketing, finance, and real estate investment, Jessica brings a unique blend of insider knowledge and business acumen to every transaction. Her passion for real estate began early—she purchased her first home at 19—and evolved through a successful corporate career in business strategy before she transitioned to real estate full time in 2014.

Today, Jessica serves a diverse range of clients including first-time buyers, military families, waterfront dreamers, and seasoned investors. Known for her investor’s mindset and creative marketing strategies, she’s especially skilled at reviving stagnant listings and turning properties into success stories. Her Closings for Charity program donates a portion of every sale to local nonprofits, extending her impact well beyond the closing table.

“I got into real estate to help people move into new chapters of their lives with confidence,” said Duncan. “Unlisted allows me to offer my clients even more possibilities, connecting them with opportunities they might not find anywhere else.”

“Jessica’s thoughtful approach and deep community ties make her a standout partner,” said Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted. “She’s not only a trusted advisor but a connector—someone who helps buyers and homeowners navigate their options with both strategy and heart.”

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

To learn more about Jessica Duncan, visit her Unlisted Profile or her website.

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale—in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

As the “Sober October” movement continues to grow, many consumers are rethinking their relationship with alcohol and exploring ways to feel good naturally. VIVAZEN®, a leading botanical wellness brand, offers a practical, plant-based alternative for those seeking options that don’t come with a hangover.

The Natural Energy Shot is crafted to support focus using natural botanicals rather than synthetic stimulants. It provides alertness that helps users stay focused during social events, workouts, or long workdays without the jitters or crashes associated with caffeine. The Stress Relief Shot, formulated with mindfully selected botanicals, is designed for its potential to ease tension.

Users report that together, these products provide a holistic approach to daily balance: energy when needed and calm when it counts. For many people taking part in Sober October, VIVAZEN’s products represent an easy swap for alcoholic beverages or over-caffeinated energy drinks that may disrupt sleep or well-being.

“Sober October isn’t just about abstaining, it’s about discovering what makes you feel clear, capable, and connected,” said Steve Curtis, CEO of VIVAZEN. “Our products align with that philosophy. They help people support their energy and emotional wellness naturally, without trade-offs.”

VIVAZEN products are made with carefully sourced plant materials and are independently tested to ensure quality and consistency. The company’s formulas are free from synthetic additives, controlled substances, and harmful adulterants.

The full VIVAZEN lineup, including the Natural Energy and Stress Relief Shots, is available online at www.vivazen.com and through select retail partners nationwide.

About VIVAZEN

For over a decade, VIVAZEN has delivered trusted, high-quality botanical supplements that provide people with functional wellness without compromise. Rooted in centuries of herbal wisdom and backed by modern innovation, VIVAZEN is a functional, feel-good alternative for those who want to live—and feel—on their own terms. Join the millions who trust VIVAZEN to Feel Great™ naturally, and visit feelgreatbotanics.com.

Disclaimer

VIVAZEN products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease and these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

Media Contact

Media Contact
press@vivazen.com

As the United States prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence, business leaders from the U.S. and Spain gathered to highlight the history of strong economic bonds between the two countries at the 2025 United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce National Convention in Atlanta, and opportunities for continued economic growth.

“From supporting our independence 250 years ago to one of our strongest trade partners today, Spain has been a key partner of the United States,” said Jackie Puente, vice president of external affairs at Comcast and USHCC board chair. “We are excited to continue building on this close relationship to advance our shared values and economic interests.”

American exports to Spain reached $35.3 billion in 2022, resulting in a trade surplus of $4 billion for the U.S. This represents a 56.3 percent increase over the prior year, and includes significant U.S. exports to Spain in energy and medical products. Spain also provides over $99 billion in foreign direct investment in the U.S., supporting more than 87,000 American jobs.

“Since day one, Spain has recognized the importance of a strong alliance with the U.S.,” noted Dr. Juan Rivera-Mata. A professor of global studies at Northeastern University and member of the Asociación Hispanic-America 250 board of directors, Dr. Rivera-Mata has over 20 years of experience in the global pharmaceutical industry.

“With our shared commitment to democratic principles—and a shared language with over 45 million Americans—Spain and the U.S. have been close friends for 250 years, and we look forward to strengthening those bonds over the next 250 years of Spanish-American friendship,” he said.

Members of the Asociación Hispanic-America 250 spoke at the 2025 USHCC National Convention in Atlanta, which brought together over 1,200 business leaders and government officials from across the United States to explore new opportunities to expand American entrepreneurship and advance the American economy.

“We’re thrilled for this partnership and the opportunity to further expand our international reach,” said Ramiro Cavazos, USHCC president and CEO.

More than 5 million American businesses contributing over $800 billion to the U.S. economy are owned by Hispanic Americans. Opening the door to new markets, Cavazos said, will create more jobs for American workers, new business for American employers, and stronger bilateral ties between the U.S. and its long-term partner, Spain.

About United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce champions the growth and success of America’s small businesses, advocating for a network of more than 260 local chambers and business associations. Programs, services and events of the USHCC are proudly available to all businesses. For more information, please visit ushcc.com.

About Asociación Hispanic-America 250

Asociación Hispanic-America 250 is an independent, nonprofit association dedicated to highlighting Hispanic participation in the origins, independence, and development of the United States.For more information about Asociación Hispanic-America 250, please visit hispanicamerica250.org

Media Contact

Ashley Mora
ashley.mora@bodenagency.com

Juanita Guzman
juanita.guzman@bodenagency.com

Nulo, the premium pet food brand dedicated to helping fuel healthier, happier lives, announced today the next chapter of its award-winning “Fuel Incredible” campaign, unveiling an inspiring roster of winter athletes and their beloved pets. The latest partnerships celebrate resilience, passion, and the unique bond between some of the world’s top athletes and their pets as they prepare to compete on the global stage.

The lineup of Nulo partners and their four-legged companions includes:

• Madison Chock and Evan Bates – Olympic gold medalists and three-time world champion ice dancers; pets: Stella (13) and Henry (9), toy poodles
• Alex Ferreira – two-time Olympic medalist halfpipe freeskier; pet: Brandy (4), mixed breed
• Brenna Huckaby – three-time Paralympic gold medalist snowboarder; pet: Mouse (1.5), Cornish Rex
• Maddie Mastro – Olympic halfpipe snowboarder; pet: Pippy (3), Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix
• Kristen Santos-Griswold – Olympian and world champion short track speed skater; pets: Bear (13) and Koda (7), Siberian huskies
• Jordan Stolz – world champion speed skater; pet: Mitzi (9), mixed breed

“I’m thrilled to join the Nulo family as an ambassador,” Huckaby said. “As a Paralympic gold medalist, mom and advocate for living life without limits, I’ve built my platform on the belief that what we put into our bodies fuels what we can achieve. That extends to my family — including our cat, Mouse, who’s just as much a part of the team. Nulo’s commitment to quality nutrition and care mirrors my own values, and I’m excited to share our journey together with my community.”

Each competitor embodies the strength and determination that Nulo champions through its mission to fuel what matters most, whether on the podium, on the slopes or at home with our pets. This next chapter of Nulo “Fuel Incredible” builds on the campaign’s successful debut in concert with the competition in Paris, led by Simone Biles, who now passes the torch to winter athletes preparing for the highest level of global competition in their sports.

"Being part of the Nulo family and this campaign has always been special to me because it celebrates athletes not only for what we achieve in competition, but also for who we are and what drives us," Biles said. "I’m excited to welcome this incredible group of athletes and shine a light on the passion and dedication they bring to their sports, as well as the special relationships they have with their pets."

The campaign features a mix of digital media, print and television ads. The cornerstone is a 30-second television spot that will appear on the networks of NBCUniversal in select markets and nationally on Peacock, showcasing Nulo's team of athlete ambassadors and their pets. Complementing the broadcast push, the broader campaign will come to life through out-of-home activations and in-store retail experiences designed to engage consumers at multiple touchpoints. This continuation follows the first iteration of Fuel Incredible, which was honored by the Digiday Streaming & Video Awards, the MarCom Awards and Cynopsis Sports Media Awards for its compelling narrative and measurable impact, setting the stage for even greater resonance in this next chapter.

“Simone and our initial Fuel Incredible roster, including Olympic gold medalists Caeleb Dressel and Gabby Thomas, set the tone for what this campaign truly represents: authentic stories of perseverance, joy and emotional connection,” said Michael Landa, Nulo founder and CEO. “This new roster carries that vision forward in a way that reflects Nulo’s mission. We’re proud to share their journeys and deepen our support for athletes and the pets who support them, both through these partnerships.”

The new “Fuel Incredible” creative begins rolling out starting this week and will continue through 2026, showcasing athlete stories both on and off the ice and snow. For more on Nulo athletes and their pets, visit nulo.com/be-inspired or follow their journeys to Milan-Cortina on Instagram.

About Nulo

Nulo is on a mission to fuel the inner athlete in every pet. With a wide range of ultra-premium food formats available in more than 6,500 pet specialty retailers nationwide, Nulo ensures pets enjoy the best in digestive and immune health, skin and coat care, mobility, and weight management. Recognized as one of Forbes Magazine's "Most Innovative Brands at Retail," Nulo's offerings are rich in animal-based proteins and low in carbs, crafted to keep pets thriving alongside their human companions. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Austin, TX, Nulo continues to inspire pet parents and athletes alike. For more information, visit nulo.com.

Media Contact

Taylor Strategy
nulo@taylorstrategy.com

In today’s global race, a handful of centralized players dominate data, computing power, and algorithmic control. But as nations, enterprises, and communities increasingly demand digital sovereignty, a new movement is emerging — one that reimagines AI as an open, decentralized, and community-owned system.

At the forefront of this movement is Hyra Network, a decentralized AI infrastructure building what it calls the foundation for the “Sovereign AI Infrastructure Era.”

A Closed-Loop Ecosystem for Sovereign AI

Unlike traditional AI or blockchain projects, Hyra Network envisions something far more comprehensive: a closed-loop ecosystem where compute power, data, and intelligence flow seamlessly across a decentralized infrastructure. This ecosystem connects decentralized computing resources, AI models, and applications into one seamless network — empowering individuals, startups, enterprises, and even governments to develop and deploy AI independently.

At its core, Hyra Network operates on a DePIN-powered (decentralized physical infrastructure network) solution that ensures compute power is distributed globally rather than controlled by a few corporations. This approach enhances accessibility and scalability while providing a neutral foundation where AI innovation can thrive freely and transparently.

“AI should not be a privilege of a few centralized entities,” said Jonh Tran, founder and chairman of Hyra Network. “The future of AI belongs to transparency, openness, and the power of community. We shared this belief with the global ecosystem — connects with pioneers who envision the same decentralized future of AI infrastructure."

The Next Internet Stack for Decentralized Compute & AI

Hyra Network positions itself as more than just a blockchain — it is the backbone of a new digital order, defined by transparency, sovereignty, and community governance. Its architecture reimagines digital infrastructure through a five-layer stack, each layer reinforcing decentralization and user empowerment:

• DAO – Decentralized Governance System: Enables transparent, community-driven decision-making and ensures that no single entity controls the network’s direction.
• Hyra Scan – Security and Transparency Layer for AI: Provides verifiable data integrity, smart contract auditing and on-chain monitoring for AI operations.
• Hyra AI – Interface Layer on Edge Devices: Allows developers and users to access AI capabilities directly from decentralized edge devices, enabling real-time, cost-efficient performance.
• Hyra Zone – Global Distributed GPU Layer: A global grid of GPUs that delivers scalable, decentralized compute power for AI training and inference.
• Hyra Mega – Marketplace for Data and AI Models: A decentralized marketplace connecting data providers, model creators and enterprises, fueling innovation through open collaboration and fair value exchange.

This 5-layer framework transforms Hyra into a unified infrastructure stack where every participant can contribute to, and benefit from, the global AI economy without sacrificing control or transparency.

The Foundation for a Sovereign Digital Future

Through millions of connected devices and hundreds of thousands of TFLOPS of distributed compute power, Hyra is already proving that community-driven networks can match the performance of centralized supercomputers, while remaining open and compliant.

“We’re not just building infrastructure,” explains Bui Dinh Ngoc, CTO of Hyra Network. “We’re building the solution for a neutral ground where the future of AI can evolve — open to everyone, governed by transparency, and powered by the collective.”

In many ways, Hyra Network represents more than a project — it’s a unique solution, a statement about how technology should serve society. Its vision extends beyond decentralized computing to redefine the very relationship between people, data, and intelligence.

By merging blockchain governance, distributed hardware, and open AI ecosystems, Hyra is positioning itself as the backbone of a new digital order — the one where AI sovereignty is not a privilege of the few but a right of the many.

About Hyra Network

Hyra Network, under Hyra Holdings, is a decentralized AI infrastructure project built on a Layer-3 blockchain with DAO governance and practical AI applications. The project aims to create a sovereign, transparent, and community-driven AI ecosystem. Looking ahead, Hyra is preparing for an IPO on Nasdaq in 2030, while expanding collaborations with governments, investment funds, and the international community to drive sustainable and autonomous digital transformation.

Media Contact

Luu Hong Nhung
nhunglh@hyra.network

Most Loved Workplace® has unveiled the 2025 America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® list, published as a custom content feature in The Wall Street Journal. The annual ranking highlights 100 organizations across industries that are transforming employee experience and redefining retention strategies in today’s economy.

“These companies aren’t just attracting top talent—they’ve cracked the code on how to keep employees engaged and thriving,” said Louis Carter, founder and CEO of Best Practice Institute and creator of the Most Loved Workplaces® certification and annual rankings. “America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® prove that when you help employees become who they want to be, they’ll help your company become what it needs to be.”

Why These Workplaces Stand Out

As U.S. businesses face unprecedented pressure from employee burnout, job market shifts, and AI-driven change, the 2025 America’s Most Loved Workplaces® demonstrate a different path forward. While many employers compete with signing bonuses and perks, these companies go beyond the transactional to create transformational experiences rooted in growth, purpose, and culture.

• First Watch Restaurants (#1): A no-night-hours model that prioritizes life outside work, career mobility through internal promotions, and executive listening tours that develop entrepreneurial leaders.
• Mission Pet Health (#2): A “grow with you” mindset, including programs to support employees through major life events and MPH University, which builds transferable business skills for veterinary professionals.
• O2E Brands (#3): Creates a culture of ownership and accountability where every employee feels empowered to drive innovation and growth.
• Databricks (#4): Democratizes data and analytics training across all employees, ensuring AI and technical literacy company-wide.
• Parkview Health (#5): Uses technology to improve both patient care and employee experience, giving staff tools to succeed every day.

This focus on growth reflects a broader shift in today’s workforce. Among the Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces®, a large majority invest in advanced skills development—equipping employees with capabilities that make them competitive across today’s and tomorrow’s job market.

The payoff is clear: More than 8 in 10 employees report a stronger sense of purpose and belonging as a result. A 2025 study of Gen Z and Millennials underscores why this matters. Nearly 90% of younger workers say a sense of purpose is central to job satisfaction. Employees stay not because of golden handcuffs, but because their company supports their internal desire to advance in their careers and lives.

How the Rankings Were Determined

The 2025 America’s Most Loved Workplaces® list is grounded in proof from employees themselves. Research was conducted by Best Practice Institute (BPI) using the proprietary Love of Workplace Index® and advanced sentiment analysis. This methodology captures how employees truly experience their workplace — measuring emotional connection, collaboration, respect, alignment of values, and achievement.

More than 2.8 million U.S. employees were surveyed across companies of all sizes and industries. Hundreds of executives were also interviewed to provide context on culture, leadership, and strategy. Companies represented 50+ industries, from Financial Services to Healthcare, Technology, Construction, and more.

This independent validation ensures the rankings reflect both the lived experiences of employees and a rigorous external assessment of workplace practices. In an era where candidates and employees seek proof over promises, America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® provides credible recognition that employees themselves stand behind.

Companies were evaluated and scored as follows:

• 50% from direct employee feedback using the Love of Workplace Index®
• 35% from BPI’s in-depth company interviews and written submissions
• 15% from external public ratings, news analysis, and employee review platforms

This methodology ensures that the rankings reflect both the lived experiences of employees and a rigorous external validation of workplace practices.

The Bigger Lesson for U.S. Businesses

The old playbook of recruitment and retention built on perks alone is obsolete. America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® demonstrate that lasting success comes from creating cultures where employees are empowered, valued, and deeply connected to purpose. The most loved companies aren’t keeping people with perks—they’re inspiring loyalty through belonging, growth, and meaning at work.

Explore the Full List

To see the complete 2025 America’s Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® list and company profiles, visit: mostlovedworkplace.com/americas-top-most-loved-workplaces-2025

To view the Wall Street Journal Publication, visit: https://partners.wsj.com/most-loved-workplace/most-loved-workplaces-2025/Americas-top-100-most-loved-workplaces

Learn How to Become a Most Loved Workplace®

Organizations interested in joining future lists can begin the process here:

• Apply for Recognition: mostlovedworkplace.com/americas-top-most-loved-workplaces-2025 

About Most Loved Workplace®

Most Loved Workplace® is a global certification and recognition platform powered by Best Practice Institute. Organizations certified as Most Loved Workplaces® outperform peers in retention, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Based on the Love of Workplace Index®, the model is featured in the bestselling book In Great Company (McGraw-Hill, 2019).

About Best Practice Institute (BPI)

Best Practice Institute is a leadership development and benchmark research organization that partners with corporations worldwide to optimize culture, performance, and talent strategy. BPI is the exclusive certifier and research body behind Most Loved Workplace®.

Media Contact

Scott Baxt
Head of Research, Most Loved Workplace®
scottbaxt@bestpracticeinstitute.org
+1 917-805-6413

Mailmodo, the email marketing platform known for its interactive AMP email technology, today announced the launch of Mailmodo AI, a conversational platform designed to handle the entire email marketing workflow. With a few natural language prompts, marketers can plan campaigns, generate emails, set up automations, segment audiences, and review performance, all in one place.

For many teams, launching even a single campaign can require several days of manual work to write copy, design templates, set up automations, and review results. Mailmodo AI was created to eliminate that burden for small and mid-sized businesses, startups, and lean marketing teams that need enterprise-level capabilities without the steep learning curve or technical overhead.

“Prompting is becoming the default way people interact with technology, and marketing workflows are evolving in the same direction,” said Aquibur Rahman, founder and CEO of Mailmodo. “Email marketing has been slow to catch up with the AI revolution. With Mailmodo AI, we wanted to close that gap. By bringing planning, creation, automation, and analysis together in one platform, we’re helping marketers go live in minutes instead of days, and showing what the future of email marketing can look like.”

Unlike tools that add AI as an add-on feature, Mailmodo AI is designed to support every stage of the email lifecycle. Marketers can draft a full campaign strategy, generate subject lines and templates, build journeys, and then rely on the built-in AI Co-Pilot for performance insights and recommendations. The result is a platform that acts less like software and more like a teammate.

Mailmodo launched in 2021 and quickly became known for making interactive AMP emails accessible at scale. Its technology allows businesses to embed forms, calculators, quizzes, and even calendars directly inside emails. Today, Mailmodo supports thousands of businesses with automation, personalization, and analytics. The launch of Mailmodo AI marks the next step in its mission: to make email marketing faster, simpler, and smarter for the prompt-first era.

About Mailmodo

Mailmodo is a San Francisco-headquartered, no-code email marketing platform helping businesses drive higher conversions through interactive and automated campaigns. Since its launch in 2021, the company has enabled marketers to design, send, and optimize interactive AMP emails with ease. Backed by investors including Sequoia Capital India’s Surge, Y Combinator, and others, Mailmodo continues to reimagine email marketing by combining automation, personalization, and AI-powered campaign management into one platform. Learn more at mailmodo.com.

Media Contact

Hannah Richman
hannah@mailmodo.com

Unlisted, a groundbreaking digital real estate community focused on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet, today announced that Michael Chiffone of East Coast Capital has joined the platform as a Local Expert for buyers and homeowners in New York City. Chiffone is Unlisted’s designated lending resource in ZIP code 10475.

Unlisted is designed to allow real estate professionals, buyers, and homeowners to see beyond the MLS. The platform organizes publicly available real estate data into digital property profiles for every home in the country, making it easier to search and curate lists of homes that fit a buyer’s criteria—even if they aren’t currently on the market.

With the addition of Local Expert profiles, Unlisted connects users directly with trusted real estate professionals in their area. Unlisted’s experts are carefully vetted and chosen for their ability to provide meaningful guidance.

Chiffone is a seasoned, multi-state licensed loan officer with nearly three decades of experience in mortgage lending, guiding clients through a wide range of financing scenarios with professionalism and care. Through Unlisted, he serves buyers and homeowners in the 10475 ZIP code, providing expert financial insights and guidance to help them understand their options when considering buying, selling, or refinancing. Michael has also built a robust network of financial professionals and real estate partners, creating seamless transactions and valuable educational opportunities for clients and colleagues alike.

“My goal has always been to help people feel confident in their real estate decisions,” said Chiffone. “Unlisted gives me another way to support both buyers and homeowners by answering questions and helping them explore financing options as they consider their next step.”

Katie Hill, founder and CEO of Unlisted, added: “We’re proud to welcome Michael Chiffone as a Local Expert in the 10475 ZIP code. His expertise as a loan officer adds an important dimension to Unlisted—ensuring buyers and homeowners not only find homes they love, but also have trusted guidance on how to finance them.”

To learn more about Unlisted, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

To learn more about Michael Chiffone, visit his Unlisted profile or East Coast Capital.

About Unlisted

Unlisted focuses on the 98% of homes that aren’t for sale—yet. The company empowers home buyers to join the Waitlist for homes they love that aren’t for sale—in other words, unlisted. At the same time, homeowners collect a Waitlist of interested buyers for whenever the time comes to sell, giving everyone a head start. Unlisted also allows homeowners to control how their home is presented online; they can create a stunning up-to-date property profile that shows off the home’s best features and attracts more interest. With more time and more connection, Unlisted is a more human way to explore real estate that drives better outcomes for all. For more information, visit UnlistedHomes.com.

Media Contact

Sophia Jacomet
sophia@unlistedinc.com

Brazil’s leading tokenisation platform AmFi Finance has entered a strategic partnership with Helix, an award-winning real-world asset tokenisation platform incubated by Singapore-based fintech pioneer Helicap, to launch the first-ever tokenised private-credit initiative connecting Latin America and Asia. The partnership, facilitated by Onigiri Capital — a venture capital firm focused on blockchain and finance — aims to link Asia’s institutional capital with Brazil’s rapidly expanding private-credit market through compliant, blockchain-enabled infrastructure.

With real interest rates in Brazil at an all-time high, the collaboration marks a milestone in uniting two of the world’s most dynamic regions for financial innovation: Latin America and Southeast Asia. Structured by AmFi and enabled by Helix’s institutional network and infrastructure across Asia, the initiative opens new, compliant pathways for cross-border credit participation.

“This collaboration marks a defining moment for Brazil’s credit markets,” said Paulo David, CEO of AmFi Finance. “By combining Helix’s institutional reach across Asia with AmFi’s proven structuring expertise and track record exceeding US$300 million, we are creating institutional-grade access to one of the world’s highest real-yield markets — safely, transparently, and on-chain.”

Brazil: The Next Frontier for Tokenised Private Credit

This partnership follows the release of Project Aurora: Brazil’s Asset Tokenisation Opportunity — a landmark report launched by AmFi, Credit Saison Brazil, Onigiri Capital, Coruja Capital, and Pinheiro Neto Advogados. Sponsored by Núclea, the study highlights how Brazil’s private credit market represents a US$2 trillion opportunity, underpinned by one of the world’s most advanced financial infrastructures and a progressive regulatory framework that has embraced tokenisation as a catalyst for inclusion and efficiency.

Despite Brazil’s highly digitised financial system, access to credit remains concentrated among a few large banks, leaving small and medium-sized enterprises underserved. Tokenisation offers a technological leap to address these structural frictions. By converting receivables and structured loans into blockchain-based tokens, platforms like AmFi reduce issuance and distribution costs by up to 38%, improve transparency through real-time auditability, and enable fractional ownership for a wider class of investors.

The report highlights that Brazil’s regulatory foundations, collectively position the country as a global leader in regulated tokenisation. With more than US$300 million of private credit already structured on AmFi’s platform and an ecosystem now supported by established institutions, Brazil is evolving from pilot projects to fully institutional adoption.

“Brazil’s transformation mirrors what we’ve seen across Asia, where regulation, technology, and capital are converging to unlock new financial pathways,” said Qin En Looi, managing partner at Onigiri Capital and partner at Saison Capital (co-authors of Project Aurora). “This partnership demonstrates how global collaboration can accelerate tokenisation from theory to scale.”

A Shared Vision: Connecting Capital and Impact

For AmFi, the partnership with Helix extends its mission to bridge local credit origination with global capital. The platform already works with a network of qualified originators across Brazil to tokenise receivables-backed assets, providing liquidity to fintechs and private credit managers in Brazil while creating diversified exposure opportunities for investors. Helix’s participation brings Asian capital into this ecosystem through a compliant and transparent framework that advances financial inclusion.

“The future of finance is about building bridges between regions that share the same challenges and opportunities,” said Jitendra Singh Jaitawat, CEO of Helix. “Through this collaboration, AmFi and Helix are creating a new chapter in global private credit, demonstrating how tokenisation can expand access, transparency, and inclusion across emerging markets.”

The initiative underscores Brazil’s emergence as a global benchmark for real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation. Through compliant frameworks and proven platforms like AmFi, international investors can now gain direct exposure to Brazil’s productive economy while supporting the financial inclusion of its business sector.

About AmFi Finance

AmFi Finance is Brazil’s leading tokenisation platform for real-world assets, focusing on private credit and receivables-backed investments. Supervised by the Brazilian Securities Commission (CVM), AmFi has structured over US$300M in tokenised assets since its founding and offers institutional-grade solutions that integrate compliance, transparency, and programmability for global investors. For more information, visit amfi.finance.

About Helix

Helix is an institutional platform for launching and managing stablecoins and tokenised real-world assets, enabling omnichain issuance, compliant distribution, and seamless interoperability between TradFi and DeFi through a unified, modular architecture. Led by TradFi veterans with a track record of US$500 million in off-chain deal volume and zero defaults, Helix combines the confidence of TradFi with the composability of DeFi through purpose-built infrastructure, laying the foundation for the mainstream adoption of programmable finance at scale. Learn more at www.helixfi.io.

About Onigiri Capital

Onigiri Capital is a venture capital fund launched by Saison Capital, the corporate venture arm of Japan’s Credit Saison. Onigiri is on a mission to support innovation to chart the next chapter of finance through facilitating trust, scale, and adoption for blockchain technology. The fund leverages its Asian institutional heritage to fund, advise, and empower blockchain founders who are unlocking real-world, global financial products and utility across stablecoins, payments, tokenised assets, DeFi, and financial markets infrastructure. For more information, visit www.onigiri.vc.

In her latest op-ed, The Wright Scoop urges readers to become people who create credibility — a matter of sustainable trust.

Each day brings yet another story of blatant unethical behavior — manipulation on Wall Street, fraudulent government contracts, national espionage, and or municipal government corruption. At every level and within all cultures, examples of failed credibility exist.

One cannot help but wonder when businesses will discover that sustainable businesses are built on an obligation of trust. Why? Trust is the bedrock upon which civil societies are built. Without it we resort of self-protection, erect defensive walls and remain forever on guard.

Have you experienced a misleading business agreement? Have you heard the words “let’s forgive and forget,” only to realize the real meaning was “Can I do it to you again and get away with it?” Unfortunately, reversing the effects of a one-sided deal isn’t simply a matter of sincere forgiveness — it’s a matter of lost credibility and broken trust.

What is credibility? It is a reputation of integrity, where integrity implies a special meaning, not just honesty, but consistency and predictability. For, credibility is built on admitting mistakes, forewarning others, correcting errors, and making sure an error is not repeated. Do not blame others and when a situation is corrected, do not dwell on an error.

While honesty is being truthful to other people, integrity is being true to oneself. How? Each of us is affected by everything we do and everyone we meet. Yet, we are a unique set of thoughts and feelings, and that is why having integrity is a matter of being in tune with who you are, what you are, and where you want to go. As a result, the act of recognizing who you are is not a one-time event, but a lifelong activity. 

“When public companies reported annually,” said colleague David Stern, associate professor of communications at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, “they were able to hide their shady practices. The implementation of quarterly reports was intended to provide shareholders with transparency; nevertheless, it also created an unintended consequence — short-term outlooks that shifted focus away from customers and long-term growth.”

Another factor, emergence of global businesses which forego a commitment to eco-sustainability, equally affected the focus of greening (plant, profit) market share. As a result, to borrow the words of colleague Julia Killian, "When we interact with individuals who lack integrity, whether on a personal basis or business dealings, we cannot depend on what we are told. Their self-serving duplicitous nature frequently results in misinformation and injustice. Their unethical words and actions knowingly deceive naive or uninformed people who accept false words and misleading statements as truth, often leading to decisions with unintentional negative consequences. So, a lack of integrity whether of a person, society or organization can monumentally impact a culture." Why? Trustworthy relationships are the foundation upon which communities flourish.

Simply put, credibility, as a matter of trust, is the foundation for all human relationships. So, all cultures should accept that without trust, mankind will blow in the wind this way and that when credibility if lacking. Why? There is no steadfast commitment to truth or honesty, resulting in a society or individuals who are neither believable nor respect other people.

How is trust achieved? Consistency and predictability, an outcome of "no surprises," is built on listening, trust, respecting the dignity of each person within an organization. No surprises up and no surprises down. If commitments change, explain the change before it impacts others? Why? Credibility is built on listening, trust respecting the dignity of each person within an organization. No surprises up and no surprises down.

Still, how do we deal with unethical behavior when it occurs? Protect yourself! If you hear the words, did I put that in writing then require that person to put it in writing. On the other hand, do not let a one-sided deal color your perception or warp your values. Everyone deserves at least contingent trust. So, when unethical behavior occurs, put it is perspective, let go, move on, and favor the positive. The experience of a one-sided deal should only emphasize how precious trust is. 

Can the concept of credibility be assured? Of course! Regardless of global and/or cultural influences, you be the person whose honesty and condor influences trust within a business community. Be recognized as the person whose credibility is a matter of sustainable trust. Become known as a person who ensures global eco-sustainability, a focus of growing green not simply for self but for all, planet, profit market share.

About The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright

A graduate of the Virginia Natural Resource Leadership Institute program, The Wright Scoop – Sylvia Hoehns Wright urges all to keep America beautiful and become people who CARE — have a perspective of conservation, accountability, recovery and eco-efficiency. To inspire others, she offers one-on-one consulting, speeches and workshops and has published a series of eco-books.

For more information, visit thewrightscoop.com, email syhwright@gmail.com or follow her activities on social media through Facebook group The Wright Scoop or @WrightScoop on Twitter/X.

Media Contact

Sylvia Hoehns Wright
syhwright@gmail.com

As the U.S. government shutdown enters its third week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced it is furloughing nearly half of its workforce, a move expected to cause significant slowdowns in tax operations right at one of the busiest times of the tax year. According to the agency, about 34,000 IRS workers are being sent home, while another 39,870 remain on duty to maintain essential services.

Call center staff, IT workers, and most headquarters employees will be affected, creating potential delays in processing, customer support, and implementing new tax law changes. Taxpayers should expect increased wait times, backlogs, and slower communication until funding is restored.

That’s why Remitian, a company that has developed the world’s first automated tax payment system, is stepping into help. With IRS operations reduced, Remitian’s automated tax payment system is providing firms and taxpayers a secure and reliable way to stay compliant. Unlike many systems that depend on the federal EFTPS, Remitian payments will continue to post on time, regardless of IRS staffing levels. This eliminates a major source of stress and allows businesses to focus on the bottom line, not the shutdown.

“This shutdown highlights how fragile traditional tax payment systems can be,” said Solon Angel, CEO of Remitian. “When government functions pause, compliance shouldn’t. Our clients rely on us to keep payments moving, deadlines met, and errors out of the equation, no matter what’s happening in Washington. That’s what Remitian was built for.”

Remitian users can:

• See exactly when payments are made and schedule them ahead of time to avoid delays.
• Prevent costly mistakes with built-in error-checking tools. Which is especially important while IRS support is limited.
• Access Remitian’s Tax Help Line (1-877-8REMIT8) for guidance during the shutdown.

For a detailed look at how the furloughs are affecting IRS services and taxpayer obligations, visit Remitian’s Tax US Shutdown FAQ.

About Remitian

Remitian is an automated tax payment platform built for firms and their clients. Through one secure portal, users can manage all tax jurisdictions, eliminate manual errors, and ensure payments post on time — even when government systems are delayed. To learn more, visit remitian.com.

Media Contact

Press Inquiry
press@remitian.com

Women Road Warriors, the acclaimed women’s empowerment talk show hosted by Shelley M. Johnson and Kathy Tuccaro, has been honored with the 2025 Global Excellence Award from Acquisition International Magazine (AI) as the Best Female Empowerment Talk Show – USA.

This recognition marks the second major accolade from Acquisition International Magazine within a year. Earlier, Shelley M. Johnson was named Most Empowering Podcast Host – USA, and Kathy Tuccaro received the Excellence Award for Female Empowerment Podcasting in the AI 2025 Influential Businesswoman Awards. Women Road Warriors has received eight awards from various organizations in the past two years.

Since 2018, Acquisition International’s Global Excellence Awards have celebrated organizations and individuals who redefine innovation, leadership, and positive impact across industries. Recipients are selected through a merit-based process by an impartial panel that identifies outstanding achievement and commitment to progress. The publication describes its mission as highlighting “the people, products, and services that can fundamentally change things for the better.” 

“Kathy and I are super elated with this second award from Acquisition International Magazine in less than a year,” said Shelley Johnson, co-host and executive producer of Women Road Warriors. “This is a serious affirmation that we’re accomplishing what we set out to do — to empower women with valuable information and interviews. There can be no greater compliment than knowing we’re making a positive change through our program that features celebrities and experts who inspire women and future generations. We’re privileged to be recognized on a global level and to be called out as leaders in the United States. We look forward to continuing to be vanguards of empowerment for women. Thank you again, Acquisition International.”

About Women Road Warriors

Women Road Warriors is a multiple award-winning women’s empowerment talk show hosted by Shelley Johnson and Kathy Tuccaro, featuring trailblazers, experts, and celebrity guests on topics that uplift and empower women. As a vanguard for change, it “powers women on the road to success.” The show blends humor, insight, and lively banter between Shelley, Kathy, and their guests.

The podcast ranks in the top 2% globally, according to Listen Notes, and appears among FeedSpot’s Top 10 in its list of the Top 100 Best Women’s Empowerment Podcasts Worldwide. It was recently named Self-Improvement Podcast of the Year by Corporate LiveWire. Women Road Warriors airs on WNEW-HD3 (102.7-3) in New York City and is available on demand across all major podcast platforms and at https://women-road-warriors.captivate.fm.

For more information, visit womenroadwarriors.com.

About Acquisition International Magazine

Acquisition International is an international monthly digital business magazine dedicated to providing timely news, commentary, and analysis to corporate readers. As the voice of modern business, it showcases excellence, innovation, and evolution across the global marketplace. To learn more, visit www.acquisition-international.com.

About AI Global Media

Since 2010, AI Global Media has produced engaging B2B and B2C content that informs and connects global audiences. The company recognizes and rewards organizations and individuals for their dedication to their industries, teams, and clients — no matter the challenges they face. For more information, visit www.aiglobalmedialtd.com.

Media Contact

Shelley M. Johnson
Women Road Warriors Talk Show
sjohnson@womenroadwarriors.com

EnviroPro 360, a leading environmental testing company based in Augusta, Georgia, is proud to announce the expansion of its service fleet with the addition of a new 2026 Toyota Prius. This strategic investment underscores the company's commitment to sustainable operations throughout the Central Savannah River Area of Georgia and South Carolina.

The introduction of the hybrid vehicle marks a significant step forward in EnviroPro 360's efforts to minimize its carbon footprint while enhancing its service delivery. With over 40% improvement in fuel efficiency, the Prius not only reduces emissions but also increases the company's capacity to respond promptly to requests for asbestos, mold, lead, and radon testing. This move aligns with EnviroPro 360's mission to safeguard both community health and the environment.

By incorporating the Prius into its fleet, EnviroPro 360 strengthens its position as a trusted partner for environmental safety assessments. The company's independent approach, which focuses on testing without offering removal or remediation services, ensures unbiased and reliable results. This unique value proposition empowers homeowners, businesses, and contractors to make informed decisions about the safety of their environments.

"Our new hybrid vehicle represents a crucial advancement in our eco-friendly initiatives," said Joseph Galpin, owner of EnviroPro 360. "It allows us to not only enhance our operational efficiency but also to contribute to a cleaner environment, which is at the heart of our mission."

Looking ahead, EnviroPro 360 plans to continue investing in sustainable technologies and expanding its services to reach more communities across South Carolina and Georgia. The company remains dedicated to innovation and quality, striving to set new standards in environmental testing.

To learn more and book testing with EnviroPro 360, please visit our website at enviropro360.com.

About EnviroPro 360

EnviroPro 360 is a trusted environmental testing company based in Augusta, Georgia, serving the Central Savannah River Area and beyond. We specialize in asbestos, lead, radon, and mold testing; providing clear, unbiased results without offering removal or remediation services. Our independent approach ensures honest reporting and reliable insight for homeowners, businesses, and contractors. With over 20 years of experience, EnviroPro 360 is dedicated to helping communities make informed decisions about the safety of their environments. Learn more at enviropro360.com.

Media Contact

Joseph Galpin
Owner, EnviroPro 360
info@enviropro360.com
+1 706-553-4602

When Dr. Andrew Rudin found himself drowning in workplace stress years ago, the toll was undeniable. The misplaced trust, the pressure, the grind, it all added up. The weight gain followed. For a cardiologist, someone deeply familiar with the mechanics of the human heart, this was more than just a personal struggle. It was a reckoning.

“I didn’t jump on medication. I didn’t schedule a surgery,” he recalls. “I got to the root cause. And that’s what saved me.”

That same philosophy has become the foundation of Rudin’s practice today. He’s not just a board-certified interventional cardiologist-electrophysiologist with decades of clinical experience. He’s not just a wellness advocate either. He is someone who has lived on both sides of the equation, patient and physician, and now walks the fine line between conventional medicine and the fast-growing wellness movement.

Rudin’s specialty lies in treating cardiac arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting millions of Americans. But despite his expertise in high-tech procedures, Rudin is quick to caution against an overreliance on interventions. “There are hundreds of thousands of unnecessary stent procedures in America every year,” he says. “We’ve had years of data showing elective stents don’t prevent heart attacks or extend life. Yet patients believe they’re lifesaving because that’s how the system is built.”

Instead, Rudin emphasizes the foundations of health: nutrition, movement, and lifestyle change. “Food is medicine, it sounds cliché, but it’s true,” he says. “Cutting sugar, processed foods, and focusing on real, organic nutrition has far greater long-term benefits than most people realize.”

For Rudin, the path forward isn’t about rejecting medicine or championing wellness in isolation; it’s about balance. His approach is both rigorous and open-minded, backed by years of medical training and a willingness to engage with emerging data in wellness and longevity research.

This willingness to “follow the data, not the dogma” is what sets Rudin apart. He acknowledges the limitations of pharmaceutical-driven research, where negative or neutral results often get buried. At the same time, he warns against extremes in the wellness industry, where anecdotes can too easily masquerade as science. “The difference between me and many in wellness is that I’m not an extremist,” he says. “If a patient needs conventional meds, a pacemaker, or ablation, I’ll recommend it. But I’ll also push them to address the underlying drivers of disease, stress, diet, and inactivity. You need both perspectives.”

Central to Rudin’s philosophy is empowering patients to ask better questions and demand better care. He believes too many people accept procedures or prescriptions without truly understanding the data behind them. “I had a patient who thought that she shouldn’t play pickleball because of exertion,” Rudin shares. “That does not make sense. There’s no science for it. Exercise helps almost everyone.”

For him, the solution lies in honest, data-driven conversations, conversations where patients are equipped with knowledge and where doctors are challenged to go beyond band-aid solutions.

Dr. Andrew Rudin’s journey, from stressed professional in need of healing himself, to physician-innovator balancing the best of medicine and wellness, offers a new kind of blueprint. It’s one where longevity isn’t about quick fixes, but about sustainable habits and evidence-based choices.

“Modern medicine alone isn’t working. But wellness without medical grounding can be just as dangerous,” Rudin says. “The future is in walking that line, and making sure patients come away not just treated, but truly healed.”

About Dr. Andrew Rudin

Dr. Andrew Rudin is a board-certified interventional cardiologist-electrophysiologist redefining heart health through a balance of medicine and wellness. Specializing in cardiac arrhythmias, he focuses on addressing root causes rather than quick fixes, emphasizing nutrition, movement and lifestyle. Having faced his own health challenges, Dr. Rudin now champions evidence-based, sustainable habits and data-driven care, empowering patients to move beyond treatment toward lasting healing and long-term heart health. For more information, visit bestheartbeat.com.

Media Contact

Dr. Andrew Rudin
andyrudin@gmail.com