Newsroom

LUYUAN Group wrapped up its 2026 Global Partner Conference on May 5, coinciding with the 32nd China International Bicycle Fair. The company debuted its all scenario e-mobility portfolio. More than 100 core dealers and ecosystem partners from nearly 20 countries and regions attended the event.

The conference underscored a clear strategic shift. LUYUAN is moving from product export to capability export, and ultimately toward ecosystem export.

Six global innovation centers were officially inaugurated. LUYUAN launched a global strategic partnership with KOVE MOTO, champion of the 2026 Dakar Rally. The “Carbon Trailblazers · Pioneer Initiative” Global Program was also kicked off.

Three New Pillars: Materials, Intelligence, Lifestyles

LUYUAN introduced a three-pillar product upgrade strategy: New Materials, New Intelligence, and New Lifestyles. Four global premiere models turned this strategy into tangible products on the show floor.

New Materials: Lighter, Cleaner, Fully Recyclable

The LYVA M05 is the world’s first E-MTB built on a one-piece die-cast magnesium alloy frame. Co-developed with Qingyang Baomei Precision Manufacturing Co., it uses an exclusive magnesium alloy that resists corrosion 10 times better than conventional magnesium. The frame is about 30% lighter than aluminum. Lifecycle carbon emissions drop by one-half to two-thirds. The material is 100% recyclable.

For dealers facing carbon tariffs and tighter environmental rules, the M05 is a quantifiable ESG solution — not just a lightweight product.

LUYUAN and Qingyang are now scaling the “Carbon Trailblazers · Pioneer Initiative” into a global program. The plan is to recruit 10,000 riders worldwide over two years. Based on company estimates, if 10,000 riders transition from fuel-powered vehicles to electric transportation for five years, the shift could reduce carbon emissions by approximately 22,000 metric tons — equivalent to the annual carbon absorption capacity of roughly 1.2 million trees.

New Intelligence: Empowering Performance

The S86 electric motorcycle debuted globally. It is the first mass-production model on LUYUAN's liquid-cooled smart powertrain. Peak power reaches 5,000 W. Top speed is 80 km/h. Safety features include ABS and TCS. A TFT smart display runs LUYUAN Smart OS 3.0.

The technology behind it has already been tested in more challenging scenarios. LUYUAN and DOBOT co-developed an embodied intelligent shopping-guide robot dog. The same motor-control and electronic systems power these robots. After rigorous validation in robotics, the technology trickles back into two-wheelers. Partners receive a proven platform, not an experiment.

New Lifestyles: From Racing to Everyday Riding

The EMX250 off-road electric motorcycle made its global premiere. Co-developed with KOVE MOTO, it shares the architecture of the championship bike and packs LUYUAN's liquid-cooled smart powertrain. It targets off-road enthusiasts, overland explorers, and riders who demand extreme performance.

At the conference, LUYUAN and KOVE MOTO formally launched their global strategic partnership. They will combine KOVE MOTO’s race-proven architecture with LUYUAN's core EV technology. The goal: high-performance electric motorcycles for global markets.

Meanwhile, LUYUAN’s cycling lifestyle brand LYVA uses e-bikes to bring electric-assisted riding to more riders worldwide.

On the exhibition floor, LUYUAN displayed a full-scenario product matrix: high-speed electric motorcycles, sport e-bikes, swappable-battery two-wheelers, and electric tricycles. A modular product architecture fits diverse country requirements. For dealers, it means less complexity and lower inventory risk.

"One Core, Two Wings": A Synergistic Architecture

The “Three New” strategy runs on an open architecture called “One Core, Two Wings.”

The One Core is LUYUAN’s deeply rooted two-wheeler business. With over 400 million units on the road, it is the world’s largest testing ground for core technologies at massive scale.

The Two Wings are overseas markets and embodied intelligence. The core business supplies mature technology platforms and reliable supply chains to overseas markets. Global market demands push product standards higher. The core business also provides mechatronic capabilities to embodied intelligence applications. Robotics-level R&D feeds back to strengthen the technology moat. LUYUAN has also formed an ecosystem partnership with Youlu Robotics to expand the application of intelligent powertrain technology.

“The ‘One Core, Two Wings’ are not three separate business units,” said Hu Jihong, founder and CEO of LUYUAN Group. “They form an organic system that empowers each other. The core technologies share the same foundation, but the value boundaries reach much further.”

Six Innovation Centers: Pivots for Localized Operations

A central strategic move at the conference was the unveiling of six overseas innovation centers across Europe, Asia, and Africa, each with distinct functions:

• The German center works closely with BMW on R&D and engineering.
• Spain and Nigeria centers serve as benchmark markets for replicable localization. 
• Thailand and Uzbekistan centers use joint ventures to set up production lines and shorten delivery radii.
• The Singapore center explores new models like battery swapping and leasing.

For dealers, these centers mean localized support: nearby supply, nearby training, and nearby service.

“None of these six centers is called a sales office,” Hu emphasized. “We are not just shipping products out. We are building capabilities on the ground. LUYUAN is ready to share the technology, supply chain know-how, and service methodology we have built over 30 years — openly, with all our global partners.”

A Top-Tier Partner Matrix Co-building a New Ecosystem

During the event, LUYUAN finalized annual contracts with core dealers from nearly 20 countries. Notably, LUYUAN's matrix of global top-tier partners was showcased collectively for the first time: BMW (technology licensing and German engineering standards), Qingyang Precision (exclusive magnesium materials and die-casting), KOVE MOTO (Dakar-winning vehicle architecture), and DOBOT & Aloft Robotics (deep joint R&D in embodied intelligence).

For global dealers, this matrix delivers a clear message: they are not just representing a single brand, but a comprehensive technological ecosystem supported by the top forces across multiple industries.

From its "Three News" product strategy to the "One Core, Two Wings" structural support, and from the six global innovation centers to its elite partner matrix, LUYUAN has delivered a complete blueprint for its leap from "Made in China" to a "Global Ecosystem Platform." For partners worldwide, this guarantees a more reliable technological foundation, highly flexible localized support, and a continuously evolving global co-creation network.

About LUYUAN Group

LUYUAN Group is a China-based manufacturer of electric two-wheeled vehicles focused on the design, research, development, and production of electric scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles. Founded in 1997, the company has grown into a leading player in the electric mobility industry, serving customers in more than 80 countries and regions through an extensive global distribution network. With multiple manufacturing facilities across China and millions of units in annual production capacity, the company continues to advance sustainable transportation solutions for urban and commercial mobility worldwide. For more information, visit www.luyuangroup.com.

Media Contact

Jin Yiyu
media@luyuan.cn

Costway, a home and lifestyle brand, recently highlighted its complete cooling lineup for everyday comfort. As home comfort needs continue to diversify, consumers are increasingly looking for cooling solutions that can support different rooms, usage habits, and seasonal demands. Costway’s complete cooling lineup is designed to meet those needs with a wide range of options — including mini split air conditioners, ice makers, fans, heat pumps, and portable air conditioners — that give households more flexible options for managing comfort across different spaces and daily needs. 

A Complete Cooling Lineup for Everyday Comfort 

With its latest cooling lineup, Costway continues to reflect its “More Than Just Furniture” brand philosophy. Its complete cooling lineup consists of:

• Mini split air conditioners
• Residential and commercial ice makers
• Portable air conditioners
• Heat pumps
• Fans

Costway’s complete cooling lineup includes mini split air conditioner options for different room sizes, as well as ice maker and commercial ice maker solutions for both household and small business use. 

Together, this complete cooling lineup gives consumers more flexible ways to manage cooling and heating across different spaces and usage scenarios. The addition of competitive pricing and fast delivery helps further position Costway as a convenient brand for innovative home comfort solutions.

Product Highlight: Smart Mini Split AC System

At the center of Costway’s complete cooling lineup is the X-Pro 18000 BTU 2-Zone mini split AC with heat pump. 

Designed for modern homes, this mini split air conditioner offers multi-zone temperature control, allowing users to cool or heat different rooms separately for more personalized comfort. This makes it especially useful for households where comfort needs vary from room to room throughout the day. 

The X-Pro range includes models rated up to 24 SEER2, helping support energy-efficient heating and cooling performance. This helps users enjoy efficient cooling performance while keeping energy use more manageable over time. The system also uses R454B refrigerant, which supports efficient performance with lower global warming potential. 

With a capacity range of 9,000 to 36,000 BTU, Costway’s mini split units can cool everything from individual bedrooms to large living areas.

Key features of the X-Pro mini split AC system include:

• 2-Zone Climate Control: Allows users to adjust temperature in different zones separately for more personalized comfort and more efficient use of energy. 
• Robust Performance: Works optimally to provide cooling and heating ranging from -13°F to 131°F
• Smart System Capabilities: Compatible with WiFi and voice command-based systems (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant); features multiple modes and fan speeds

Product Highlight: Spray-type Ice Makers

As a supplement to its various air-cooling equipment, Costway is releasing another innovative product as part of its one-stop solution lineup: the Stainless Steel Spray Ice Maker.

This product combines home convenience and industrial capability in one package. With its spray system, this device creates crystal-clear, harder-to-melt ice compared to traditional ice cubes from other machines.

This ice maker has the ability to generate up to 80 pounds of ice daily and store up to 30 pounds of ice at a time, making it powerful for both high-traffic homes and small commercial businesses.

What’s more, Costway’s ice maker features “set and forget” convenience, adjustable ice thickness settings, and self-cleaning.

Convenient Installation Support for Customers

To better support customers purchasing mini split AC systems, Costway works with a professional installation team in California, offering end-to-end setup services for its clients. This installation support is a key differentiator for Costway, helping it stand out from its competitors.

Save On Cooling Solutions with Costway’s “Cooling Week” Promotion

During Costway’s Cooling Week promotion from May to August, customers who purchase qualifying cooling products will have the chance to receive an additional cooling product for free. A total of 200 free products will be given away.

About Costway

Founded in 2011 in the United States, Costway aspires to become a world-class furniture and diverse home products company. With a global network of branches and robust overseas warehouse infrastructures, the company leverages its supply chain advantages to source and sell products worldwide. Its “More Than Just Furniture” motto signifes Costway's dedication to creating comprehensive lifestyle solutions for its customers. Today, they are renowned for various home appliances, furniture, and outdoor solutions — providing consumers with a wide selection of quality products at reasonable prices. Costway has served over 100 million households across North America, Australia, and Europe, with annual sales exceeding $2.2 billion. 

Media Contact

Amber Lu
service@costway.com

The digital commerce sector is currently defined by "stack fatigue" — the diminishing returns of managing dozens of disconnected software tools. Today, Inspiration Factory signaled a definitive shift in the industry with the unveiling of FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN. Rather than adding another tool to the pile, the TITAN release introduces a comprehensive "Operating Layer" designed to unify fragmented digital infrastructures into a single, responsive ecosystem.

This milestone represents a strategic pivot toward what the firm calls "integrated reality," merging advanced AI administration, cinematic broadcasting, and automated customer journeys.

eviaOS: The Intelligence of "Breathing Technology"

The technical core of the FlowMagnet ecosystem is eviaOS, a proprietary engine that moves beyond the rigid, "if-this-then-that" logic of traditional automation. By utilizing Breathing Technology, eviaOS monitors user behavior in real-time to execute autonomous resonance tests. This allows the digital environment to adjust its own parameters dynamically, optimizing dwell time and relevance without human intervention.

This intelligence powers a full-funnel system, utilizing dynamic and variable landing pages. The result is a storefront that functions as a living interface, evolving its presentation instantly to meet the specific psychological and data-driven needs of each visitor.

Neo and Ally: The Autonomous Administrative Network

Communication in the FlowMagnet architecture is treated as a core utility rather than an external plugin. Through a proprietary framework, the system deploys AI Super-Agents, Neo and Ally, to act as a 24/7 administrative network. These agents do not merely answer queries; they manage lead communication chains and provide contextual data to both internal teams and prospects at every critical stage of the decision-making process.

Cinematic Production in a Virtual World

As the demand for professional-grade digital events rises, FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN debuts a Live-Panel architecture. By blending studio-quality production standards with cinematic storytelling, the platform enables brands to move away from standard video calls toward high-fidelity digital broadcasts that maintain the interactivity of a live session.

"We are moving past the concept of sales as a simple sequence of steps," says Hannes Sommer, founder of Inspiration Factory. "FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN treats sales as a continuous, interactive system. By bringing structure and communication into one environment, we have built a solution that creates a significant gap between our partners and the rest of the market."

Deployment and Global Availability

The official production rollout for FlowMagnet 4.0 TITAN is scheduled for late May 2026. To ensure the integrity of the infrastructure, the platform is reserved exclusively for official partners and strategic co-creation projects developed under the guidance of Inspiration Factory. The system’s centralized interface is engineered for rapid deployment, allowing organizations to scale team structures internationally with minimal operational friction.

About Inspiration Factory

Based in North Carolina and operating internationally, Inspiration Factory LLC is a specialized developer of digital infrastructure and AI-driven systems. The firm focuses on the intersection of advanced artificial intelligence and user-centered design to build the next generation of commerce ecosystems. For more information, visit flowmagnet.net.

Media Contact

Support Team
contact@inspirationfactory.net

Energía 2000 announced that its Manzanillo Power Land thermoelectric facility is now contributing approximately 15% of the Dominican Republic’s total installed electricity generation capacity, marking a major milestone for the country’s energy infrastructure.

Located in Pepillo Salcedo, Montecristi, the 414 MW natural gas-powered plant represents an investment of approximately $1.05 billion and has become a significant contributor to national grid capacity, based on sector estimates and public data from the Ministerio de Energía y Minas.

The project was developed over more than 14 years, during which its legal, regulatory, and financial structure was established to align with international standards. The plant is owned and operated by Energía 2000, with operations supported by international partners across fuel supply, generation technology, and plant management.

To enable the project, a 128-kilometer high-voltage transmission line was constructed across multiple provinces, connecting the facility to the national grid. An auxiliary dock was also developed in the Bay of Manzanillo to support logistics during construction.

The development and operation of Manzanillo Power Land generated more than 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, primarily benefiting local communities in Montecristi and surrounding provinces.

The project also secured co-financing from multiple international financial institutions, each conducting independent due diligence on the plant’s technical, regulatory, and financial structure prior to committing capital.

Guillermo Estrella Ramia, a corporate attorney and co-investor in Energía 2000, contributed to structuring the project’s legal and financial framework, including regulatory approvals, land rights, power purchase agreements, and financing arrangements.

About Energía 2000

Energía 2000 is a private Dominican company engaged in the development, ownership, and operation of energy infrastructure projects, focused on large-scale power generation and long-term grid capacity. For more information, visit energia2000rd.com.

Media Contact

RD Noticias Team
info@rdnoticias.com.do

Bsign Inc., a manufacturer of custom signs for commercial and residential interiors, has reached a significant production milestone of 400,000 custom signs produced since its founding in 2018. The milestone unit — a custom door sign featuring the number 203 — was completed this month.

The achievement reflects sustained growth in demand for personalized architectural signage across the hospitality, corporate, healthcare, and residential sectors. Bsign's product range spans door signs, room numbers, nameplates, directional signs, floor indicators, and ADA signage — all manufactured using a combination of CNC laser cutting, UV printing, and hand-finishing techniques.

From Startup to Scale

Founded in 2018, Bsign started as a small-scale operation focused on personalized door signs. Over the past seven years, the company has expanded its catalog to include comprehensive wayfinding solutions for multi-story buildings, hotel chains, office complexes, medical facilities, and residential developments.

"Reaching 400,000 signs is a milestone that belongs to our entire team", said Andrew Stychinskij, founder of Bsign. "Every sign we produce is made to order — there is no mass production. Each piece is designed for a specific space, a specific door, a specific client. That approach is what got us here, and it's what will carry us forward."

The company currently operates with a team of 20 and ships to customers across the United States and internationally, with plans to expand into the Canadian market later this year.

Product and Material Focus

Bsign's production is centered on three core materials: wood, stainless steel, and acrylic glass. Each sign is manufactured individually, with options for custom dimensions, typography, color matching, and Braille integration for ADA-compliant environments.

The company's architectural signage is used across a range of building types, including boutique and chain hotels, Class A office buildings, coworking spaces, university campuses, and luxury residential developments. Recent collaborations include wayfinding solutions for the Caesars Palace and Marion hotel networks, with additional hospitality projects scheduled for later in 2026.

Industry Context

The custom signage segment has seen consistent growth as property developers, architects, and interior designers increasingly treat signage as part of the design specification rather than a last-minute procurement item. The demand for wayfinding solutions that integrate with interior design concepts — matching materials, finishes, and typography to the broader spatial identity — has driven growth for manufacturers who offer customization at scale.

Bsign's production model, which combines digital fabrication technology with individual hand-finishing, positions the company to serve both large-scale commercial projects and individual residential orders from a single workflow.

About Bsign

Bsign (bsign-store.com) is a manufacturer specializing in custom signs for commercial and residential interiors. Founded in 2018, the company designs and produces door signs, room numbers, nameplates, directional signs, floor indicators, ADA-compliant signage, and comprehensive wayfinding solutions for hotels, offices, medical facilities, educational institutions, and residential buildings. All products are manufactured to order using wood, stainless steel, and acrylic glass, with CNC laser cutting, permanent UV printing, and individual hand-finishing. Bsign serves clients across the United States and internationally, with a team of 20 professionals. The company has produced over 400,000 custom signs since its founding. For more information, visit bsign-store.com

Media Contact

Andrew Stychinskij
info@bsign-store.com
+1 323-843-0781

BuySellVouchers today announced the integration of USD Coin (USDC) as a payment method on its platform, enabling users worldwide to purchase digital products with a fast, stable, and flexible cryptocurrency option.

As cryptocurrency adoption continues to expand, platforms are increasingly focused on bridging digital assets with real-world use cases. While crypto payments have historically faced challenges related to volatility and usability, stablecoins such as USDC introduce a more practical model for everyday transactions.

BuySellVouchers is designed to address this shift by enabling seamless payments for digital goods using a stable, dollar-pegged asset that supports efficient global transactions.

The platform operates as a global marketplace for digital products, offering users access to gift cards, gaming content, subscriptions, and online services. With the addition of USDC, customers can complete purchases without relying on traditional payment systems, reducing friction in cross-border transactions.

“Crypto payments are evolving beyond trading into everyday utility. By integrating USDC, we are enabling a payment experience that combines the speed of blockchain with the stability users expect for daily purchases,” said Sergej Balanel, Director at BuySellVouchers.

The USDC integration allows users to purchase a wide range of digital products, including game gift cards for platforms such as Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox, as well as in-game currencies, entertainment subscriptions like Spotify and Netflix, and digital services including Discord.

To support a wide range of users and wallets, BuySellVouchers enables USDC payments across multiple blockchain networks. These include Polygon for low-cost and fast transactions, BEP20 for cost efficiency, and ERC20 for broad compatibility across exchanges and wallets.

The platform prioritizes simplicity and speed in the checkout experience. Users can select a product, choose USDC as the payment method, complete the transaction using their preferred network, and receive their digital code shortly after confirmation.

By leveraging USDC, BuySellVouchers combines the advantages of blockchain-based payments with the reliability of a stable digital currency. Transactions are processed quickly, fees are reduced compared to many traditional methods, and users maintain flexibility in how they transact globally.

Following each transaction, users receive their purchased digital goods instantly, reinforcing a model where crypto payments directly support real-time digital consumption.

The addition of USDC reflects a broader transition toward practical cryptocurrency adoption. As digital commerce continues to evolve, platforms that integrate stable, efficient, and globally accessible payment solutions are expected to play a central role in shaping the future of online transactions.

About BuySellVouchers

BuySellVouchers is a global digital marketplace that enables users to purchase gift cards, gaming products, subscriptions, and digital services from leading brands. The platform is designed to provide fast delivery, flexible payment options, and worldwide accessibility, helping users seamlessly access digital products using both traditional and cryptocurrency payment methods. Learn more at www.buysellvouchers.com.

Disclaimer

BuySellVouchers is a secondary marketplace. The purchase of digital gift cards involves risks, including merchant-specific redemption restrictions. USDC is a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. Dollar, but users are responsible for managing their own private keys and ensuring network compatibility (Polygon, BEP20, ERC20). This announcement does not constitute financial advice. Digital assets are subject to regulatory oversight in various jurisdictions; please consult your local laws before transacting.

Media Contact

Partnership Department
partners@buysellvouchers.com

Financial risk and cybersecurity leader Alejandro Mijares has expanded his advisory work through his firm, Mijares Consulting, following recognition from Marquis Who’s Who for his contributions to the financial services sector. 

With nearly two decades of experience spanning risk management, auditing, cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, Mr. Mijares advises financial institutions on managing IT and digital risk. This specialty has positioned him as a trusted adviser to boards, chief executives and senior leaders across the Americas.

Alejandro Mijares’ Background in Consulting

Mr. Mijares built his financial career on a solid foundation of education. He holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and information systems from California State University, Chico, and a Master of Science in management information systems from Florida International University in Miami. He is also a certified professional with credentials including the Certified Information Systems Auditor, Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control and Critical Incident Stress Management certifications, all issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association. 

Before founding Mijares Consulting, Mr. Mijares held several senior roles, including vice president of risk and information security at United Data Technologies and IT risk director for banks at Kaufman, Rossin & Co. His early career achievements included IT consulting and auditing roles at leading firms such as Deloitte and PwC.

Building Mijares Consulting

Founded in August 2023, Mijares Consulting is dedicated to turning digital risk into a competitive advantage for the organizations it serves. The firm provides precision-driven risk services, including strengthening governance and helping secure digital transformations for financial institutions. 

Mr. Mijares operates as a strategic partner to his clients by blending traditional expertise with his advanced analytics talents. The firm currently serves a growing client base across Miami, Puerto Rico and Panama. 

Expanding Into Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

One of Mr. Mijares' ambitions for his company is to expand its data science and artificial intelligence (AI) business line. The firm is currently leading the integration of an AI model within the audit department of a bank in Panama. His work with them reflects his long-standing interest in new technologies, which led him to pursue AI and machine learning (ML) certifications through courses at institutions such as MIT Professional Education. 

Over the past decade, Mr. Mijares’ notable achievements with Mijares Consulting include assisting 11 banks in addressing complex issues, achieving a 100% success rate. This accomplishment demonstrates the thoroughness of his work, his meticulous attention to detail and the trust he has built within the banking sector.

Mr. Mijares witnessed the rise of cloud computing, the growing importance of cybersecurity and the emergence of AI, developments that continue to drive his commitment to ongoing learning and adaptation. He also views his success as a reflection of his journey as an immigrant who used education and professional opportunities in the United States to build a distinguished career.

About Alejandro Mijares (Mijares Consulting)

As the founder and CEO of Mijares Consulting, Alejandro Mijares helps financial institutions turn digital risks into competitive advantages. With 20 years of expertise in risk management, auditing, cybersecurity, innovation and regulatory compliance, he has advised boards, CEOs, and senior executives on navigating disruptions, resolving enforcement actions and building digital resilience. Mr. Mijares specializes in assisting banks with enforcement actions, specifically addressing matters requiring attention (MRAs) issued by regulators. For more information, visit mijares.consulting.

About Marquis Who's Who

Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, marquiswhoswho.com.

Media Contact

Marquis Who's Who
info@marquiswhoswho.com

Agnes Scott College, a nationally acclaimed liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia, today announced that it has been ranked in the top 5% of colleges for women in the nation in Newsweek's America's Best Colleges for Women 2026.

“At Agnes Scott, we believe the world is better when more women are at the table, in the lab, in the boardroom and in public life,” said Leocadia I. Zak, president of Agnes Scott College. “This recognition reflects our commitment to making that a reality for every student who walks through our doors.”

Every element of the Agnes Scott experience is designed with one goal in mind: sending women into the world ready to lead. At the heart of that preparation is the nationally recognized Summit curriculum, designed to ensure every undergraduate graduates as a critical thinker, a clear communicator and an ethical leader with a global perspective. The result is graduates who are ready to contribute from day one, in whatever field or community they choose.

This recognition from Newsweek underscores what defines Agnes Scott: a college grounded in the enduring promise of women’s education. That mission lives in every dimension of an Agnes Scott education — in the academic rigor that sharpens the mind, the global learning that expands perspective, and the intentional focus on leadership and career preparation that helps students step confidently into the world.

America’s Best Colleges for Women is a ranking developed by Newsweek in partnership with Gender Fair to highlight institutions that support gender equality and empower women. The methodology is rooted in the Women’s Empowerment Principles and evaluates colleges across four key areas: leadership, pay and policies, safety, and opportunity.

The ranking identifies colleges that have established the structural elements necessary to foster education and employment for women by drawing on data from the U.S. Department of Education — including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the Campus Safety and Security Database — as well as additional desk research. Only institutions meeting specific criteria for size and academic roles are included, ensuring the results reflect meaningful progress toward gender equity in higher education.

“Choosing a college is a defining moment for many young women, and it’s about more than academics alone,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Editor-in-Chief of Newsweek. “America’s Best Colleges for Women highlights institutions that are making measurable progress in leadership, equity, safety, and opportunity, helping students identify environments where women are supported and positioned to succeed.”

About Agnes Scott College

Agnes Scott is a nationally acclaimed liberal arts college located in Decatur, Georgia — minutes from Atlanta’s dynamic tech and corporate hubs, influential civic organizations and world-class cultural institutions. Driven by a mission to educate women to think deeply, live honorably and engage the intellectual and social challenges of their times, Agnes Scott offers students a rigorous academic foundation with an innovative, globally focused Summit undergraduate curriculum and high-demand graduate studies programs proven to prepare students for professional success. Recognized as a national leader in innovation and academic excellence, Agnes Scott has been ranked the No. 1 Most Innovative liberal arts college in the country for an unprecedented eight years in a row by U.S. News & World Report. This year, the college ranked No. 2 for First-Year Experiences, No. 4 for Social Mobility and is in the top 10 for Undergraduate Teaching. With a strong commitment to access, equity and intellectual curiosity, Agnes Scott prepares graduates to excel in high-demand fields and to lead lives of purpose. To learn more about Agnes Scott College, please visit www.agnesscott.edu.

Media Contact

Jaime Hunt
Interim AVP of Marketing and Communications, Agnes Scott College
jhunt@agnesscott.edu

PatSnap, an AI-native intelligence platform for IP, R&D, and Life Sciences, today announced its Synapse platform is now available within FactSet’s workstation. 

FactSet clients can now access Synapse within the Sectors & Insights application to explore global biopharma deal trends and pipeline landscapes. This integration expands PatSnap’s presence in financial services, allowing investment professionals to seamlessly navigate complex asset-level data such as R&D stage, IP position, therapeutic profile, and clinical activity, for more informed market and investment analysis.

Biopharma M&A deal value more than doubled in 2025, rising 133% vs. 2024 to reach $133 billion, the second highest level in five years (J.P. Morgan, 2026). Since 2018, more than 70% of new drug revenues have come from externally sourced products (McKinsey, June 2025), highlighting the growing importance of robust scientific and pipeline evaluation for investment decisions.

"The biopharma investment landscape has never been more complex or more consequential," said Jeffrey Tiong, founder and CEO of PatSnap. "Patent cliffs are reshaping competitive dynamics, R&D costs are rising, and the science behind an asset, its pipeline stage, IP position, and modality, is increasingly what separates a strong bet from an expensive mistake. By bringing Synapse directly into FactSet's workflow, we're giving financial professionals the scientific intelligence they need to act with conviction."

“Integrating PatSnap’s Synapse intelligence into the FactSet Workstation allows our clients to bridge the gap between clinical R&D and financial analysis,” said William Downing, Director of Deep Sector Healthcare at FactSet. “By delivering seamless pipeline and IP visibility within existing workflows, we are enabling clients to identify market signals in the biopharma sector with greater speed and precision.”

About PatSnap

Founded in Singapore in 2007, PatSnap is a global leading AI-native innovation intelligence company. Leveraging domain-specific AI agents and robust analytics tools, PatSnap empowers IP and R&D teams to unlock insights, accelerate discoveries, and protect breakthroughs. Trusted by more than 18,000 enterprises, law firms and research institutions in over 50 countries including one-third of the world’s largest R&D spenders, PatSnap transforms how organizations innovate and make critical decisions. Learn more at www.patsnap.com.

About FactSet

FactSet (NYSE: FDS | NASDAQ: FDS) provides integrated financial data and analytical applications to investment professionals across the buy-side, sell-side, wealth management, private equity, and corporate sectors. The company serves more than 9,000 global clients and over 241,000 individual users across 19 countries. Learn more at www.factset.com.

Media Contact

Kate White
media@patsnap.com

Coco Coders, the live online coding and AI literacy program for children ages 6 to 14, closed a $2.5 million seed round led by Homegrown Capital Fund I in May 2024. The raise marked a significant milestone for the company, which has grown from $500,000 in annual recurring revenue (ARR) at the time of the raise to $1.5 million in ARR as of May 2026. Coco Coders is now setting its sights on expanding students’ AI literacy and deepening school partnerships across the United States.

The round includes participation from Amrock Ventures Limited (U.K.), Iowa Venture Capital Co-Investment Fund, Nevada Battle Born Growth Escalator, South Dakota Impact Fund 1, Wonder Fund North Dakota, and a community of individual investors through a WeFunder crowdfunding campaign.

A Growth Story Built on Demand

Since launching its live, instructor-led subscription model, Coco Coders has grown to serve students across all 50 states, the U.K., and more than 10 countries. The program's rotating four-week, theme-based modules connect coding and AI concepts to real-world industries and careers, meeting kids where their interests are and building technical fluency alongside critical thinking from an early age.

The triple ARR growth since the seed close reflects what the company has long believed. Parents, educators, and communities are actively seeking programs that prepare kids for a technology-driven world, and they are not waiting for traditional school systems to catch up.

Elizabeth Tweedale, CEO and founder of Coco Coders, describes the company as not only a platform for teaching kids to code but also a program intentionally built to give them the foundations to understand, question, and build with the technology that will define their futures. The demand they’ve seen has shown that families are catching on.

Investor Confidence Rooted in Track Record

Homegrown Capital led the round with conviction in both Coco Coders' growth trajectory and the broader K-12 AI education market opportunity. Amrock Ventures, a London-based venture firm, joins the round as a returning backer, having previously supported Elizabeth in one of her prior companies. Their continued investment signals confidence not just in the product but in the team building it. South Dakota Impact Fund 1 was another private capital venture fund excited to back the impactful business making strides towards educational change. 

State-aligned investments from the Iowa Venture Capital Co-Investment Fund, Nevada Battle Born Growth Escalator, and Wonder Fund ND further reflect the regional momentum the company has built and the appetite across multiple states to see this kind of education take root in their communities.

The round also included a WeFunder crowdfunding segment, acquiring parents, educators, and community members who are personally invested in Coco Coders' mission. For a consumer-facing brand, the voice of its participants is especially validating.

Expanding Access Where It Matters Most

A core focus of the funding is bringing Coco Coders' curriculum into schools across Iowa, Nevada, North Dakota, and South Dakota. These states display a clear gap between the technology education kids need and what schools currently offer, and are actively working to provide their constituents with future-ready education. These communities that understand what is at stake in the AI era are hungry for the right partnerships and programs to evolve faster.

Nevada has been pushing to modernize education and close opportunity gaps for its students. North Dakota, with its expansive rural communities and rich indigenous heritage, represents exactly the kind of place where the right infrastructure can create a substantial impact. Iowa and South Dakota are similarly leaning in, with government initiatives to advance tech literacy, data science, and cybersecurity education, with a focused urgency in their curricula. These states are all aligned in their ideas, enthusiasm, and the efforts required to bring to life programs that give kids access to the skills the next economy will require.

Elizabeth Tweedale and her team at Coco Coders have pinpointed specific areas where providing top-tier tech education can have a life-altering impact. These efforts are strategically aligned with the strong local support found within those very communities. While expanding their consumer business remains a key priority, establishing robust foundations that ensure every child receives the foundational curriculum they need in their lives remains at the forefront of the company’s growth plans.

By providing a scalable delivery model and curriculum, Coco Coders works as a partner with educators, parents, institutions, and local communities who are actively engaged in the efforts to further and accelerate the expansion of educational opportunities for the next generation.

What Comes Next

With $1.5 million ARR, a global presence, and state-level investment partnerships now in place, Coco Coders is focused on the next stage of growth. It’s deepening its curriculum, expanding its teacher network, scaling its in-school programming across its four target states, and broadening its consumer outreach initiatives.

The company sees AI literacy as the defining educational priority of this moment, shaping how the next generation enters the workforce, approaches problems, and participates in an increasingly technology-driven world. The funding puts Coco Coders in a stronger position than ever to lead that conversation.

About Coco Coders

Coco Coders is a live online coding and AI literacy program for children ages 6–14, serving students across all 50 states, the U.K., and more than 10 countries. The program offers rotating, themed modules that connect coding and AI to real-world industries and careers, with a curriculum designed to accommodate all learning styles. Learn more at cococoders.com. For more information, visit www.cococoders.com.

Media Contact

Elizabeth Tweedale
elizabeth@cococoders.com

Santa Barbara Adventure Company (SBACo), an adventure travel outfitter serving the California Central Coast since 1998, announced today that it has been awarded first place winner in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards, earning recognition in the Best Adventure Tour Company category. 

SBACo has been guiding outdoor experiences along California’s Central Coast since 1998, with a focus on connecting guests to the region’s breathtaking beauty. The company serves a wide range of guests — from visitors and local families to schools and corporate groups — through kayaking and snorkeling tours, wine experiences, outdoor education trips, and team-building programs.

A key part of SBACo’s operations is its role as the authorized concessioner for kayaking and snorkeling tours at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island within Channel Islands National Park. Combined with its recognition as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Outfitter, the company has built a reputation for delivering well-executed experiences that reflect both operational consistency and a strong respect for the natural environment.

“We’re honored to be recognized by Newsweek readers,” said Michael Cohen, President and Founder. “This award reflects the work our team puts in every day to create meaningful experiences for our guests while maintaining a high standard across everything we do.”

The Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards recognize standout businesses, brands, and experiences across a wide range of consumer categories. Winners are determined through a public voting process in which readers select the companies and organizations they believe deliver exceptional quality, value, and customer experience.

The 2026 program highlights leading companies across numerous industries, including the Adventure Awaits category, where Santa Barbara Adventure Company was named the No. 1 Best Adventure Tour Company.

“Each year, the Readers’ Choice Awards celebrate the best of the best, as chosen by the people who matter most — our readers,” said Newsweek Editor-in-Chief Jennifer H. Cunningham. “We’re proud to recognize those organizations that continue to raise the bar for quality, innovation, and customer experience.”

About Santa Barbara Adventure Company

Santa Barbara Adventure Company (SBACo) is an award-winning outdoor adventure outfitter based on California’s Central Coast. Operating since 1998, the company offers guided kayaking, snorkeling, and wine tours, surf and stand-up paddleboard lessons, outdoor education programs, and team-building experiences for corporate groups. SBACo is the authorized concessioner for kayaking and snorkeling tours at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island within Channel Islands National Park and is recognized as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Outfitter. With a team of highly trained guides and a commitment to environmental stewardship and exceptional guest experiences, SBACo delivers outdoor experiences that are truly unforgettable. For more information, visit www.sbadventureco.com.

About Newsweek

Newsweek is the global digital news organization built around the iconic 93-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people monthly with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia. For more information, visit www.newsweek.com.

Media Contact

Will Adams
Marketing Manager, Santa Barbara Adventure Company
will@sbadventureco.com
+1 805-884-9283

The Portland Trail Blazers and Bold Reuse announced today that the Rip City Reuse cup program at Moda Center achieves carbon emission equivalent (CO₂e) break-even after just two uses under real-world operating conditions, setting an exciting new sustainability standard for the industry. The study tested three single-use alternatives — compostable PLA, polypropylene, and paper cups — and the reusable cup can outperform all three on carbon after just two uses.

Since launching at Moda Center, 967,322 beverages have been served in 20 oz. reusable cups. Based on the LCA-derived per-serving emissions difference vs. compostable PLA cups, the program is estimated to have avoided approximately 52.7 metric tonnes of CO₂e — consistent with the study's finding of 74% lower carbon per drink served. The Moda Center also serves beverages in 9 oz, 12 oz, and 24 oz cups, and the Rip City Reuse program has eliminated 1.7 million single-use cups in total.

Every product generates environmental impact across its life cycle, from production to disposal. Single-use cups are manufactured, transported, used for minutes, and landfilled, representing a significant burden relative to their brief period of use. Reusable alternatives change the equation: each additional use distributes the production impact further while displacing a new single-use item. The break-even point is where the reusable cup's cumulative impact falls below that of the single-use alternative's, and every use after that is a measurable environmental win.

This estimate is based on the LCA-derived per-serving emissions difference between the Bold Reuse reusable cup and a compostable PLA cup under Moda Center operating conditions, including an average of 8.32 uses per cup. Results are specific to this comparison and may vary under different operating assumptions, reuse rates, and other scenarios.

“What’s meaningful about this study is that it reflects real‑world operating conditions at Moda Center, not general assumptions. Independent, third‑party results show that reuse can deliver real environmental benefits at the scale of an NBA arena, helping set a new bar and moving reuse from a promising idea to a credible, impactful solution today," said Brittany Saulsbury, Director of Sustainability, Portland Trail Blazers.

The Results

Based on Moda Center's operating conditions, with cups averaging 8.32 uses each, the Bold Reuse program delivers the following carbon reductions per drink served compared to single-use alternatives used by venues:

• 82% lower carbon emissions than single-use PP cups
• 74% lower carbon emissions than compostable PLA cups
• 55% lower carbon emissions than paper cups

The results hold across all three environmental impact categories studied — carbon, eutrophication, and acidification (percentage reduction vs. each alternative, per drink served — 20 oz., Moda Center, 8.32 avg uses).

Reusable cups compared with single-use PP cups:

• 82% lower carbon (GWP) impact
• 82% lower eutrophication impact
• 81% lower acidification impact

Reusable cups compared with compostable PLA cups:

• 74% lower carbon (GWP) impact
• 88% lower eutrophication impact
• 88% lower acidification impact

Reusable cups compared with paper cups:

• 55% lower carbon (GWP) impact
• 78% lower eutrophication impact
• 82% lower acidification impact

Moda Center has led the arena reuse movement longer than any venue in the country. Since launching the first reuse program in professional sports in 2022, the program has expanded continuously, culminating on September 19, 2024, when Moda became the first major sports and entertainment venue in the U.S. to offer reusable cups across every beverage category. A new independent life cycle assessment now confirms what three seasons of operations have demonstrated: reuse at this scale delivers real, measurable environmental results.

“For too long, reuse has been asked to prove itself while single-use gets a pass. This study, conducted at a major sports venue using ISO-standard methodology and independent review, ends that debate. Two uses to break even on carbon. Everything above that is a carbon win when compared with the single-use alternatives evaluated in the study," said Jocelyn Quarrell, co-founder and CEO, Bold Reuse.

Redefining the Break-Even Standard

Prior research has placed the CO₂ break-even threshold at three to fifteen uses against various single-use alternatives. This study finds that under Moda Center's operating conditions, the Bold Reuse program reaches carbon break-even against every alternative tested — compostable PLA, compostable paper, and polypropylene single-use cups — in two uses or fewer.

The difference comes down to how the cups are managed. Bold Reuse's operational model, including washing, sanitizing, route logistics, and return infrastructure, is efficient enough that the reuse cycle adds minimal carbon relative to what it offsets. The environmental payoff compounds with every additional use: at the program's current return rate, an average of 88%, each serving delivers a fraction of the carbon footprint of any single-use alternative.

The sensitivity analysis in the study confirms that return rate is the single highest-leverage variable. A cup that comes back is a cup that continues to reduce environmental impacts.

About the Study

The study was conducted by Blue Strike Environmental and reviewed by three independent LCA experts with no financial relationship to Bold Reuse, the Trail Blazers, or any cup manufacturer. One beverage served using a 20 oz cup at the Moda Center stadium in Portland, Oregon, was selected as a functional unit. The study covers a full cradle-to-grave system boundary and compares four 20 oz. cup options: Bold Reuse managed reusable polypropylene cups, compostable PLA cups, single-use polypropylene cups, and paper cups (included as a comparative reference system only).

An independent critical review panel was convened to evaluate the comparative LCA of reusable cup systems and the associated LCI model. The panel consisted of three reviewers with expertise in life cycle assessment methodology and environmental modeling. The review was conducted in accordance with the requirements for critical review of comparative LCAs as described in ISO 14040 and ISO 14044.

The objective of the review was to assess whether the methods used to carry out the study are consistent with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, whether the data and modeling approaches are scientifically and technically valid, whether the interpretations reflect the results of the study, and whether the report provides an appropriate level of transparency consistent with the goal and scope of the assessment.

The panel reviewed the LCA white paper and the underlying LCI model provided in Excel format. Reviewers provided detailed comments addressing aspects of the study, including the definition of the functional unit and system boundaries, documentation of data sources and modeling assumptions, transparency and traceability within the LCI model, and the interpretation and communication of results. These comments are intended to improve the clarity, transparency, and robustness of the study before finalization.

At the time of this review, the study was still undergoing revision in response to the panel’s comments. Final confirmation of conformance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 will depend on the satisfactory resolution of the issues identified by the review panel.

The audit comments have been addressed in the review process. A separate document with comments and resolutions is maintained and has been shared separately.

The underlying technical report has been prepared for internal use only and contains confidential and proprietary information that precludes its public release.

About Bold Reuse

Bold Reuse (Green Options PBC) is the largest reusable serviceware operator in U.S. sports and entertainment: 20+ professional sports teams, six markets, and diverting millions of items from landfill. The company collects, washes, and redistributes reusable food and drinkware across stadiums, arenas, corporate campuses, and universities, backed by its Circular Intelligence platform for real-time asset tracking and impact reporting. For more information, visit www.boldreuse.com.

About Portland Trail Blazers

Members of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Portland Trail Blazers were founded in 1970 and purchased by Rip City Rising in 2026. The team's rich heritage includes 37 playoff appearances, three trips to the NBA Finals, an NBA championship in 1977 and a commitment to community service and sustainability. The Trail Blazers are dedicated to positively impacting underserved kids and their families throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington where they live, learn and play. Portland is the first and only professional sports franchise to receive the prestigious National Points of Light Award for excellence in corporate and community service. The Trail Blazers home arena, Moda Center, is the first existing arena to earn LEED Platinum Certification in 2019 after receiving LEED Gold Recertification in 2015 and becoming the first existing professional sports venue in the world to receive LEED Gold status in 2010. The team is also one of the founding members of the Green Sports Alliance. For more information, visit trailblazers.com. 

About Blue Strike Environmental

Blue Strike Environmental (BSE) is an environmental consultancy with practice areas in national events and venue sustainability, energy and climate, and engagement and resilience. The firm provides operational solutions in zero waste as well as technical expertise in climate action planning, decarbonization and advanced energy. Communications, engagement and compliance with environmental legislation are also business cornerstones. BSE works with local governments, universities, special events and venues.

Media Contact

Keli Schneider
keli@boldreuse.com

Oboard, a tool for tracking OKRs and KPIs, has updated its check-in system to make goal tracking clearer, faster, and easier for teams. This update gives teams a more organized way to report progress, helping everyone stay aligned without extra meetings or manual reports.

The new check-in feature helps teams keep track of progress between setting and reviewing goals. Often, OKRs are clear at the start, but updates become less visible over time. Oboard’s update makes check-ins easier to do and harder to miss.

A More Practical Approach to Check-Ins

Check-ins have always existed in OKR software, but in many cases, they’re treated like a formality; a place to drop a number and move on. Oboard’s update takes a different approach. Instead of treating check-ins as isolated inputs, the system is designed to make every update visible and useful across the entire workspace.

The updated check-in system includes:

• Flexible reminder cadences: Teams can schedule check-ins weekly, biweekly, monthly, or on custom timelines. Reminders are sent through tools teams already use, including Slack, Microsoft Teams, Discord, email, and in-app notifications, so updates happen in the flow of work.
• A unified check-in interface with Template: Progress updates and written context now happen in a single window. Teams no longer have to split updates between tracking tools and messaging platforms. Teams can also build department-specific templates that they can always reuse without having to come up with one every check-in.
• Last-updated signals across the platform: Check-in activity is visible across dashboards, roadmaps, and alignment views, making it easier to spot when a goal hasn’t been updated in a while.
• A centralized check-in feed: Every update is logged in a chronological feed, including who updated it, what changed, and the current status. Teams can review progress over time without digging through multiple tools or reports.

Adding Structure Without Slowing Teams Down

One of the more practical additions in this update is the introduction of check-in templates. In most teams, the issue isn’t a lack of activity; it’s a lack of clarity on what to report. A blank field doesn’t help much.

Oboard’s templates give teams a simple structure they can reuse, making updates quicker and more consistent over time.

Some examples include:

1. Weekly check-in template

• Are you happy with the progress this week?
• What was completed since the last update?
• Any blockers or insights?
• What’s next?
• Do you need support?

2. Monthly OKR review template

• What metrics changed?
• Which initiatives were completed?
• What impact did they have on the objective?
• What needs to change next?

3. Minimal pulse check

• Current status
• Main blocker
• Next step

Teams can also create their own templates inside Oboard, save them, and link them directly to their OKRs. That way, updates stay tied to actual goal progress, not just general activity.

Built for How Teams Work Today

As more teams work across time zones and communication tools, the old assumption — that progress will naturally stay visible — doesn’t really hold anymore. Without some kind of system in place, updates get scattered, delayed, or missed entirely. 

Oboard positions its check-in system differently. The goal isn’t just to collect updates, but to make sure those updates are seen and connected to broader company goals. By tying every check-in to a specific objective and making updates visible across the platform, teams can follow the full story of a goal as it evolves — not just the final result at the end of the quarter.

Connecting Strategy to Execution

Many organizations don’t really struggle with setting goals, the real challenge is everything that happens after. Without consistent visibility, it becomes difficult to tell whether a goal is on track, delayed, or quietly abandoned.

Oboard’s check-in update focuses on closing that gap. With regular, structured updates tied directly to OKRs, teams and leaders can see progress as it happens, rather than trying to reconstruct it later. For teams already using an approach, this kind of visibility makes it easier to stay aligned without increasing reporting overhead.

About Oboard

Oboard is an OKR and KPI tracking platform that helps organizations connect strategy to execution. By bringing goals, progress tracking, and reporting into a single workspace, Oboard enables teams to stay aligned and make better decisions based on real-time data. The platform integrates with tools like Jira, Confluence, Salesforce, monday.com, Slack, and Microsoft Teams to fit into existing workflows. For more information, visit oboard.io.

Media Contact

Margo Sakova
Head of Marketing, Oboard
margo.sakova@oboard.io

Svitla Systems, a global software engineering and digital solutions company, today announced the acquisition of Kiandra IT, an Australia-based software engineering firm with more than 30 years of experience delivering solutions for highly regulated and mission-critical industries.

The acquisition marks Svitla Systems’ formal entry into the Australian market and expands its global delivery capabilities across North America and Asia-Pacific. By combining Svitla’s international scale with Kiandra IT’s deep regional expertise, the company aims to accelerate the delivery of AI-enabled, low-code, and enterprise software solutions for clients worldwide.

Kiandra IT employs a team of 45 professionals across Australia and is recognized for its expertise in Microsoft .NET technologies, AI-accelerated software development, and its partnership with OutSystems, a leading enterprise AI low-code platform. The company was recently named OutSystems Partner of the Year for New ARR Growth.

“Kiandra IT represents a strategic fit for Svitla Systems on multiple levels,” said Nataliya Anon, CEO and founder of Svitla Systems. “The acquisition strengthens our market entry into Australia and the Asia Pacific region, deepens our AI low‑code and Microsoft engineering capabilities, and enables us to bring AI‑enabled software engineering to market through a mature delivery model. Just as importantly, it allows us to extend Kiandra’s specialist capabilities into the US while giving Kiandra the support to scale globally.”

The acquisition strengthens Svitla’s capabilities in key areas, including AI, low-code and code-gen application development, Microsoft-based enterprise systems, and project-based delivery for regulated industries such as healthcare, financial services, and government.

It also enables a two-way growth strategy: expanding Kiandra IT’s specialized capabilities into the U.S. market while providing its clients access to Svitla’s global delivery network and broader technology offerings.

“Kiandra IT has built its reputation on trust, quality, and delivering outcomes in complex environments," said Cameron Brookes, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kiandra IT. "Joining Svitla Systems allows us to preserve that approach while expanding our reach beyond Australia. Our clients gain access to global scale and advanced engineering capabilities, and our people gain the opportunity to work on larger, international programs while staying true to our delivery culture.”

Kiandra IT will continue to operate under its existing leadership team, ensuring continuity for clients and employees.

Together, Svitla Systems and Kiandra IT will deliver enhanced solutions for organizations operating in highly regulated environments, combining enterprise-grade engineering, AI-enabled delivery, and global scalability.

About Svitla Systems

Svitla Systems is a global software engineering company specialising in digital transformation, focused on six core practices: AI, data, cloud, software engineering, application managed services and team extension. With delivery teams across North and South America, Europe, India and Australia, Svitla partners with organisations to solve complex business challenges through technology. For more information, visit svitla.com.

Media Contact

Andre Koot
a.koot@svitla.com

OHLA-USA has named Stephen Jacobs as superintendent of the Atlantic Avenue roadway expansion project in Delray Beach, Florida.

The project will widen Atlantic Avenue’s existing two-lane roadway into a four-lane divided highway. It will also relocate an adjacent canal to support long-term transportation and economic growth in the area.

Stephen Jacobs’ Contributions to the Project

Jacobs brings more than 30 years of experience in civil construction and roadway development, overseeing daily operations, crew coordination and field planning for the project. His role includes ensuring materials are available, resolving on-site challenges and keeping work aligned with design and safety standards. The Atlantic Avenue expansion is expected to take much of the first half of 2026 due to extensive preparation, including foundation work and cabling into control buildings.

The project comes as Delray Beach and the surrounding areas see increased interest from logistics, agriculture and commercial developers. Local officials and industry leaders view the roadway expansion as a key improvement that will support future development and rising property values. Jacobs noted that infrastructure improvements often act as a catalyst for business growth, especially in areas with strong regional connections.

The work also reflects broader trends in the construction industry, where crews are increasingly operating in tight, active environments rather than on new, undeveloped land. Jacobs has seen growing use of rubber-tired and compact excavators that allow crews to work efficiently on existing roadways without damaging pavement or disrupting traffic. These machines move faster, operate in confined spaces and reduce the need for full road closures, which has become critical as cities repair and upgrade older infrastructure.

Making an Impact in the Construction Industry 

Jacobs credits his leadership approach to focusing on people as much as process and to his ability to guide teams through complex infrastructure projects in active settings. He stresses the importance of collaboration, clear communication and problem-solving, believing these to be essential parts of successfully executing projects, especially on long-term transportation initiatives.

The Atlantic Avenue project adds to Jacobs’ long track record of leading complex roadway work across Florida and supports OHLA-USA’s continued focus on transportation infrastructure that serves growing communities. 

In addition to his leadership in construction, Jacobs’ ventures include Jake’s Survival, an outdoorsman supply company, and Charging All Over and Safe Water Air, which sell water and air purification products. He also supports charitable efforts through the Singer Island Beach Polo Classic. 

About OHLA-USA

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in New York, with additional locations in Massachusetts, California, Texas, Florida, and Illinois, OHLA-USA specializes in heavy civil construction and modernization projects. Critical infrastructure projects they have contributed to include highways, bridges, rail and mass transit systems, tunnels, and water resources. They are a division of a Madrid-based construction company, Obrascón Huarte Lain, S.A. (OHLA Group), headquartered in Madrid, Spain.

About Marquis Who's Who

Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, marquiswhoswho.com.

Media Contact

Stephen Jacobs
steve.jacobs@ohla-usa.com

Marquis Who’s Who honors Brian Fricker for launching a new professional services division at Staffing Partners. Leveraging more than three decades of experience, this latest initiative is an expansion from general labor into professional and skilled groups. Staffing Partners already represents the largest general labor agency in its area, and Fricker aims to achieve the same in these new specialties.

Education, Early Career and Current Leadership

Fricker earned a Bachelor of Arts in business, with an emphasis on marketing, from Carroll University in 1991. Following this, he joined a recruitment agency as a salesperson for a decade. Soon, Fricker’s achievements in this role led him to become president of Staffing Partners in 2005; ever since, he has worked to support the company’s foundations.

As president at Staffing Partners, Fricker found purpose in connecting employers and employees. Upon assuming leadership, he embraced this mission and successfully addressed a critical need in Wisconsin’s transportation system. The company now facilitates daily transportation for thousands of temporary staff members, partly by utilizing a fleet of 25 buses and 27 vans.

Launching the Professional Services Division

With the recent launch of a new professional services division at Staffing Partners, Fricker aims to support other labor groups. The agency is already capable of sending a few hundred people to any given client, but now those clients are requesting skilled workers. Rather than sticking to general labor, Fricker established a professional and skilled worker group to meet client needs.

The professional group at Staffing Partners. has already seen rapid growth, handling all direct hires for the newly launched division. It includes staffing professionals across a broad range of specialties, from therapists and traveling technicians to electricians and executive-level staff. The skilled group has also seen growth and is focusing on direct-hire replacements rather than temp-to-hire, largely due to the increased difficulty of finding qualified candidates. 

“We have forklift drivers, CNC operators, setup personnel and electricians, covering a range of skills up to $50 an hour,” Fricker explained. “We decided to establish the professional division because it was more of our clients requesting help that we had never focused on.”

The Value of Shifting Operational Terminology

Amid the launch of the professional services division, Fricker has adopted the term “skilled sovereign” for roles between general labor and professional. He feels that it better describes these positions and supports the transitional period from one skillset to another. As Staffing Partners introduces these changes across its operations, this kind of language can carry weight.

Ambition for the Future of Staffing Partners

Although the professional services division is currently at the forefront of Fricker’s focus, he also plans to expand the operations of Staffing Partners in the next few years. Ultimately, he intends to establish a presence in every U.S. state within that timeframe. More generally, Fricker believes this opportunity will give him a chance to explore the world alongside his family.

About Brian Fricker

With over 30 years of experience in the field of staffing, Brian Fricker serves as the CEO of Staffing Partners, Inc. Specializing in comprehensive high-volume staffing solutions, Staffing Partners has experienced significant growth under Fricker's leadership since 2005. For more information, follow on LinkedIn.

About Marquis Who's Who

Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America®, Marquis Who’s Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who® website, marquiswhoswho.com.

Media Contact

Brian Fricker
brianf@employs.com

WALLETTO’s net turnover grew by 43% year-on-year, reaching EUR 38.3 million, compared to EUR 26.7 million in 2024. Gross profit increased by 28% to EUR 16.9 million, while net profit rose to EUR 6.56 million, representing a 6.9% improvement. As of 31 December 2025, WALLETTO’s equity stood at EUR 11.3 million, with total assets of EUR 103.9 million. The company maintained a capital adequacy ratio of 1.58, well above regulatory requirements.

“These results reflect our disciplined approach to scaling the business while strengthening the governance, control and people foundations required for long-term sustainability,” said Ineta Mačinskienė, Chief Executive Officer at WALLETTO. “At the same time, we see that strategic consistency is equally as important as staying flexible in responding to market changes and adapting to emerging opportunities, technologies and customer expectations.”

WALLETO’s performance was driven by strong cost discipline, continued investment in technology and talent, and the expansion of scalable payment solutions. The company also maintained a prudent treasury strategy, allocating a portion of safeguarded funds into low-risk European government bonds in line with regulatory requirements.

“The strength of our 2025 results highlights our balanced approach to growth and financial management,” said Dalia Garbuziene, Chief Financial Officer at WALLETTO. “We delivered robust revenue growth while maintaining a strong capital position and continuing to invest in technology, compliance and people — all of which support our long-term ambitions.”

Strategic partnerships continued to play a key role in WALLETTO’s business model. Collaboration with Visa and Mastercard supported the company’s acquiring and issuing activities, enabling seamless payment solutions for businesses customers. WALLETTO also maintained active engagement with key sector institutions — including the Bank of Lithuania, Lithuanian Fintech Association, and FinTech Poland — contributing to the development of a transparent and resilient financial ecosystem.

WALLETTO further strengthened its regional presence through its partnership with Bonusukarte in Latvia, supporting local businesses with issuing solutions linked to employee motivation programs.

Looking ahead, WALLETTO will continue to prioritise disciplined, sustainable growth with a strong emphasis on risk management, operational efficiency, and technological advancement. Planned investments include further enhancements to its digital infrastructure and initiatives to strengthen internal capabilities, including employee development and a continued focus on customer satisfaction.

“2025 proved that balanced growth and strategic adaptability can go hand in hand, and we are strongly committed to continuing this approach in the year ahead,” said Mačinskienė.

With a solid financial foundation and a forward-looking expansion strategy, WALLETTO remains well positioned to scale responsibly and strengthen trust across Europe’s evolving payments ecosystem.

About WALLETTO

WALLETTO is a European-licensed electronic money institution (EMI) and all-in-one fintech platform headquartered in Lithuania. As a principal issuer and acquirer with direct Visa and Mastercard partnerships, Walletto provides secure, scalable solutions for card issuance, acquiring, and electronic payments including SEPA and SWIFT services. Its integrated infrastructure enables businesses to launch, grow, and expand globally with speed and compliance confidence. For more information, visit walletto.eu.

Media Contact

Aleksandra Petrova
WALLETTO UAB
marketing@walletto.eu

BadCo.AI has announced the launch of its Intelligent Desking™ platform, a patent-pending solution developed to support a more informed and self-directed approach to automotive purchasing. This move reflects the company’s continued focus on building AI-driven infrastructure that connects customer engagement with dealership operations through a unified orchestration layer.

The Intelligent Desking platform functions as a dynamic environment where consumers can explore vehicle purchase scenarios independently, using real-time data and adaptive logic to guide decisions. Instead of relying on static estimates, users can configure variables such as vehicle selection, trade-in value, financing terms, and incentives, receiving continuously updated outcomes based on their inputs. This approach enables individuals to evaluate affordability and structure potential transactions in a way that reflects their personal preferences and financial context, all before initiating direct contact with a dealership.

This capability is powered by BadCo.AI’s proprietary orchestration framework, which serves as the intelligence layer behind every interaction. At the center of this system is ARYA, a foundational AI orchestration agent that processes customer intent across voice, SMS, chat, and messaging platforms. Through a structured sequence of understanding, decision-making, and execution, ARYA interprets user inputs, determines the most relevant next step, and enables the patent-pending orchestration layer. The layer will then execute returns and their constraints to carry out tasks ranging from payment scenarios and knowledge of tax rate, interest rate, rebate, and money down, all based on dealer inventory, to scheduling and follow-up coordination. Throughout the process, persistent context is maintained, allowing each interaction to build upon previous ones without requiring repetition.

Jim Schrull, founder and CEO of BadCo.AI, said, “The philosophy behind the platform is a shift toward more transparent and user-guided experiences. The goal is to create an environment where individuals can explore complex decisions with clarity and continuity. We believe that when information is accessible, and context is preserved, conversations that follow tend to be more meaningful for both the consumer and the dealer.”

The platform integrates directly with dealership systems, including CRM and DMS environments, enabling a continuous flow of information between consumer-facing tools and operational workflows. Once a user decides to engage with a dealership, the transition is designed to carry forward the full history of interactions, ensuring that sales teams receive a comprehensive view of the customer’s preferences, prior configurations, and decision path. This continuity may support more personalized conversations and help reduce the need for repetitive information exchange.

BadCo.AI’s broader platform architecture can further enhance this experience by coordinating multiple operational layers within a single ecosystem. Schrull noted that AI orchestration agents manage functions across sales, service, and parts, while integrations with inventory systems, lender networks, and scheduling tools allow the platform to reflect real-world conditions in real time. These capabilities are supported by an enterprise-grade infrastructure built on Amazon Web Services, enabling scalability, secure data handling, and continuous model refinement as the system evolves.

“At BadCo.AI, we’ve focused on building intelligence directly into the CRM, so it fits seamlessly into the way dealerships already work. By keeping everything inside one system, teams don’t have to juggle extra tools. Engagement, decisions, and execution all happen in one place,” Schrull remarked. The company’s focus on maintaining a persistent customer state across interactions also contributes to a more cohesive experience, where each step in the journey is informed by prior activity.

Schrull noted that this continuity extends beyond individual transactions. “Every interaction contributes to a broader understanding of how people make decisions,” he added. “By connecting those insights across systems, the platform can support both immediate needs and longer-term engagement strategies.”

Beyond its initial automotive focus, the underlying architecture of Intelligent Desking has been developed with adaptability in mind. Its ability to manage complex, finance-related decision scenarios positions it for potential application in other industries where similar considerations play a role. This forward-looking approach aligns with the company’s broader vision of creating scalable AI infrastructure that can support a range of transaction-driven environments.

Schrull emphasizes the importance of aligning technology with the way individuals prefer to engage. “People often take time to understand their options before entering a conversation,” he said. “Providing tools that support that process can contribute to a more constructive and informed exchange when they choose to connect.”

With the launch of Intelligent Desking, BadCo.AI continues to advance its mission of connecting engagement and execution through a unified intelligence layer. By enabling consumers to navigate key decisions independently while maintaining continuity in dealership interactions, the platform introduces a new dimension to how automotive transactions can unfold in a digitally connected environment.

About BadCo.AI

BadCo.AI builds AI‑driven infrastructure that connects consumer engagement with dealership operations. Its patent‑pending Intelligent Desking platform empowers buyers to explore real‑time vehicle purchase scenarios independently, while its orchestration engine unifies data, context, and workflows to create clearer, more efficient, and more transparent automotive transactions.

Media Contact

Jim Schrull
media@badco.ai

Liners has officially launched as Africa's first AI-operated software review and discovery platform.

The product brings verified company listings, user reviews, side-by-side comparisons, funding data, investor directories, events, tech news, and more into a single ecosystem, all focused on software built for or by the African continent.

What separates Liners from existing review platforms isn't just its geographic focus. It's the operating model.

There's no editorial team, sales-led moderation, or paid placements. Every core operation on the Liners is run by a system of nine AI agents, each with a coded role, defined responsibilities, and a distinct personality.

A Platform Built Specifically for the African Software Market

Liners covers software listings across major African markets including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Egypt, Rwanda, and pan-African products serving multiple regions. Categories on the platform include fintech, healthtech, edtech, logistics, e-commerce, crypto, climate tech, B2B SaaS, AI tools, and more.

Users can search by category, country, or use case. Each listing on Liners includes verified company information, founding date, funding history, founders, key employees, and direct links to product alternatives.

Visitors can read user-submitted reviews, follow companies for updates, browse investor and event directories, and run side-by-side comparisons between similar tools.

• For African founders, Liners offers discoverability that doesn't depend on marketing budgets.
• For software buyers, it removes the guesswork of asking around in WhatsApp groups or LinkedIn DMs.
• For investors, analysts, and journalists covering African tech, Liners functions as a single source of truth on what's being built across the continent.

The Nine AI Agents Running Liners

Every operational function on Liners, from product discovery to review moderation to content publishing, is handled by an AI agent.

Each one has a name, a coded responsibility, and reports into a manager agent. Together, they form what the company calls Liners HQ.

1. Standup Stevo, the operations lead, oversees the entire system and reports to the founder.
2. DD Dave (head of due diligence) discovers new African software products and companies.
3. QA Quinn (director of quality assurance) reviews every product Dave finds for accuracy and completeness.
4. LGTM Larry (principal engineer) ships new platform features.
5. Postmortem Peter (chief bug finder) audits Larry's work and resolves issues.
6. Whiteboard Wasiu (VP of brainstorming) runs the creative engine behind the platform.
7. Agent Ammie (special agent, review fraud) investigates every single review submitted to Liners for validity and bias.
8. Touch Base Tony (VP of outreach) handles email and external communication.
9. TLDR Tara (chief content officer) writes all platform content.

The agents also communicate with each other in real time through a public live feed called Agent HQ, accessible from the Liners homepage.

Anyone visiting the site can watch DD Dave report a new product discovery, see QA Quinn flag a listing for revision, see Postmortem Peter give feedback on a bug, or read TLDR Tara getting called out for a content summary.

It's a feature that doesn't exist on any other software review platform globally.

Why Liners is an AI-Operated Model

The decision to run Liners on AI agents wasn't about reducing operating costs. It was about structural integrity.

Major software review platforms globally have well-documented bias issues.

• G2, the world's largest B2B review site, runs on a model where vendors pay for premium placements, sponsored visibility, and tools to "increase review volume."
• Capterra, owned by Gartner, defaults user search results to a "Sponsored" filter, meaning the products buyers see first are determined by ad spend, not product quality.

Both platforms have faced criticism around incentivised review programs and unclear moderation practices.

Liners removes humans from the ranking equation totally. Agent Ammie investigates every review submitted to the platform, while DD Dave discovers products based on data.

The platform's launch also lands during a “tightening” period for the global review industry, with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission issuing its first enforcement action under its new Consumer Review Rule in December 2025, warning ten companies of penalties up to $53,088 per violation.

About Liners’ Founder

Liners was founded by Kayode Faturoti, a Dubai-based serial entrepreneur with years of experience across fintech, crypto, and technology. The product was conceived in early 2026 in Bali, where Faturoti was attempting to build a Slack alternative and realized there was no reliable place to find honest, verified reviews of software, particularly for the African market.

"Liners exists to give African users a confident answer when they need to make a software decision," said Faturoti, founder of Liners. "The goal isn't to maximize revenue. The goal is to create real value for the people using it. Everything else follows from that."

Availability

Liners is now live at liners.com, with new product listings being added daily. The platform is open to submissions from African software companies and is actively expanding both category coverage and country depth.

Companies, investors, and users interested in featuring on or following the platform can visit liners.com or watch the live agent feed at Agent HQ.

About Liners

Liners is a software review and discovery platform built specifically for the African market. The platform is operated by a system of nine AI agents that handle product discovery, quality assurance, review moderation, content, outreach, and engineering, with no paid placements or sponsored rankings. Liners covers software companies and products across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Egypt, Rwanda, and pan-African markets. The company was founded in 2026 by Kayode Faturoti. For more information, visit liners.com.

Media Contact

Stevo Liners
stevo@liners.africa

Valetax has announced the appointment of John Taylor as its new chief commercial officer (CCO), marking a strategic step in strengthening its global commercial operations and advancing its long-term growth strategy.

John brings over 25 years of experience across global financial markets, with a track record of leadership across Tier 1 investment banks and leading CFD brokers. He has held senior roles including chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief investment officer, and chief financial officer, bringing a strong combination of strategic oversight and execution capability. Throughout his career, he has operated at board and executive levels across global financial institutions, with hands-on experience spanning more than 20 countries.

He has led major growth initiatives across MENA, South Africa, Brazil, India, and Europe, with experience in mergers and acquisitions, post-acquisition integration, and building new operations in high-growth regions such as Southeast Asia.

At Valetax, John will lead the commercial function with a focus on strengthening global structure, enhancing partnership and business development channels, and aligning commercial strategy with product and client experience.

Viktor Karpinsky, CEO of Valetax, commented, “John’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Valetax. His depth of experience across global financial institutions and high-growth brokerage environments brings a level of leadership that is both strategic and execution-focused. As we continue to scale, our priority is to build a structured, performance-driven organization where growth is measurable and sustainable. His expertise will be instrumental in aligning our commercial strategy with that vision.”

Commenting on his new role, Taylor said, “Viktor and the team have built an exceptional company in a remarkably short period of time, with a level of quality that really sets it apart. It is no exaggeration to say that Valetax is one of the most ambitious, innovative, and fastest-growing brokers in the industry today. This has not happened by chance. It has taken an extraordinary amount of hard work, a deep understanding of the market from both technology and product perspectives, a truly talented team, and a genuine commitment to listening to both clients and partners. These are principles I respect deeply, and they have enabled Valetax to establish a strong foundation and achieve substantial success across key markets, with significant potential for further growth. I am very much looking forward to working with the team, contributing to the next phase of the company’s development, and helping to unlock new opportunities ahead.”

This appointment reinforces Valetax’s commitment to building a globally competitive brokerage, combining advanced technology with experienced leadership to deliver a more structured, transparent, and performance-oriented trading environment.

About Valetax

Valetax is a global multi asset brokerage focused on delivering a technology-driven trading experience. The company offers advanced trading infrastructure, competitive conditions, and scalable solutions for traders and partners, with a strong emphasis on performance, transparency, and client centric innovation. It continues to expand its global presence by building strategic partnerships and enhancing its product ecosystem. For more information, visit valetax.com.