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STAR Systems Expands Product Lineup with Four OmniAir Certified Transponders

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 15:07:00 +0700

DALLAS, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- STAR Systems International, a global leader in tolling and vehicle identification technology, is proud to announce that four new innovative transponders have successfully achieved OmniAir Certification.

The newly certified products include the Xenius windshield sticker transponder, Terra license plate transponder, Genesis hardcase transponder, and Falcon dual-frequency transponder. With these additions to its OmniAir Certified portfolio, STAR Systems offers tolling agencies a broader range of high-performance, interoperable transponder solutions in a variety of form factors designed to meet diverse operational needs and vehicle requirements.

Four New OmniAir Certified Transponders from STAR Systems

Each newly certified transponder offers unique capabilities designed to address a variety of vehicle identification applications. The Xenius transponder provides a compact, high-performance windshield sticker solution for efficient vehicle identification, while the Terra transponder provides a versatile alternative in a license plate-mounted form factor.

The Genesis transponder features a durable hardcase design that gives motorists greater flexibility and control over occupancy declaration for express lanes. The Falcon transponder combines ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology in a single transponder, expanding opportunities for customer interaction and connected applications beyond traditional tolling.

"Congratulations to STAR Systems International on expanding its portfolio of OmniAir Certified transponders," said Jason Conley, Executive Director of OmniAir Consortium. "OmniAir Certification provides tolling agencies with confidence that products meet established industry standards for performance and interoperability. STAR Systems' continued commitment to certification helps advance the adoption of reliable, standards-based electronic toll collection technologies." These four certifications further strengthen STAR Systems' comprehensive transponder portfolio, offering tolling agencies greater flexibility in selecting solutions tailored to their operational requirements.

"Achieving OmniAir Certification for these four products reflects our continued investment in adopting next-generation chip technologies that bring new capabilities to our customers," said Robert Karr, CEO of STAR Systems. "It also supports our long-term product lifecycle management strategy, helping ensure a stable and reliable supply while continuing to deliver the interoperability and performance our customers expect."

For more information about STAR Systems' OmniAir Certified transponders, readers, and antennas, please contact STAR Systems at salesinquiry@star-int.net.

About STAR Systems International

Founded in 2013, STAR Systems International is a world leader in Automatic Vehicle Identification Technologies. STAR Systems focuses on providing best-in-class transponders, onboard units, readers, roadside units and professional consulting services for Intelligent Transportation Initiatives, including Electronic Tolling (ETC), Urban Congestion, Road Use Charging, Electronic Vehicle Registration (EVR), Express/HOT Lanes, Fleet Management, Parking and Secure Access Control applications.

STAR Systems strives to ensure customer success by leveraging the Company's technical expertise and implementation experience. For more information, please visit www.star-int.net.

2026 Chery International User Summit Opens, Showcasing ECO-TECH Innovations for Future Living

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 15:02:00 +0700

WUHU, China, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 2026 Chery International User Summit opened in Wuhu today, bringing together more than 2,000 Chery owners worldwide, dealers and ecosystem partners from over 130 countries and regions through October 23.

Under the theme "ECO-TECH FOR OUR FUTURE LIFE," the event highlights Chery's shift from global vehicle delivery toward an integrated ecosystem of technologies, products, energy solutions and user participation.

Chery presents four technology pillars: CheryMind, its automotive domain-specific foundation model for physical AI; integrated energy solutions; advanced driver assistance; and embodied AI. Together, they underpin applications across intelligent mobility, energy and everyday life.

In mobility, CheryMind supports the debut of the All-Dimensional World Engine, underpinning Falcon Pilot driver assistance, factory-integrated Level 4 Robotaxi solutions and the Lingxiao series of passenger-carrying electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These developments form part of Chery's broader approach to mobility across land, water and air.

In energy, the Volt-dragon Charger enables megawatt-level ultra-fast charging, while bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology allows electric vehicles to return electricity to the grid and serve as mobile energy storage resources. In intelligent living, AiMOGA's Mobo home companion robot joins service robots designed for household and public-service applications.

Chery's international strategy combines global research and development with adaptation to local regulations and infrastructure. Its advanced driver assistance technologies have secured regulatory access in more than 130 countries and regions, including certification under UN/ECE frameworks. Integrated solar, storage, charging and V2G solutions have been deployed in Spain to demonstrate performance under weak-grid conditions. AiMOGA robots are operating in more than 100 scenarios across over 60 countries and regions.

The Summit features nearly 20 technologies and Chery's multiple brands, with the Robotaxi providing shuttle rides on real city roads, alongside demonstrations of Super Intelligent Valet Parking (SIVP), Volt-dragon ultra-fast charging and V2G energy exchange. More than 2,000 users and partners will join discussions on product and feature development.

Building on 23 consecutive years as China's leading passenger-vehicle brand in global deliveries, Chery aims to deepen its international presence through locally adapted technologies and closer collaboration with users, dealers and ecosystem partners. The Summit offers a platform for testing these solutions against real-world needs in diverse markets and informing future product development.

Women's Sailing in the Spotlight as Germany Wins Virginie Heriot Trophy in Monaco

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:55:00 +0700

MONACO, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Germany's Norddeutscher Regatta Verein has won the fourth edition of the Virginie H?riot Trophy, edging out Switzerland's Club de Voile de Lausanne after a closely fought contest on the waters off Monaco.

Hamburger Segel-Club completed the podium in third place, just one point behind the two leading teams. The fifth edition of race is already scheduled to take place off Monaco from 14 to 17 October 2027.

Organised by Yacht Club de Monaco in partnership with FxPro and North Sails, with support from the French and Monegasque Sailing Federations, the all-women regatta brought together 22 crews representing ten nationalities. This year's edition introduced a new challenge, with competitors racing RS21 keelboats for the first time in the event's history.

Norddeutscher Regatta Verein and Club de Voile de Lausanne remained neck and neck throughout the qualifying rounds and the final, both finishing on eight points. The tie-break ultimately went in favour of the German team, while Hamburger Segel-Club secured third place with nine points. Designed specifically for racing, the RS21 one-design keelboat, launched in 2018, added an extra dimension to this year's competition. Following the use of J/70s in 2025, several competitors were sailing the RS21 for the first time, having to familiarise themselves with the boats supplied by the organisers.

Norddeutscher Regatta Verein adapted quickly to the new class and went on to secure the overall victory. For defending champions Royal Thames Yacht Club, however, the change proved more challenging. The British team finished 15th, one year after dominating the event.

Three teams representing Monaco took part in the competition. Pinkwave II achieved the best local result, finishing ninth overall and first in the Silver group. Spectre placed 11th, while PinkWave finished 19th.

All three crews are part of Pink Wave, an active community of female sailors who are members of Yacht Club de Monaco and are committed to promoting women's participation in sailing.

Yacht Club de Monaco is preparing for a busy program of upcoming regattas. The next event is the Grimaldi Trophy, scheduled for 23-25 October 2026, a coastal race between Sanremo and Monaco. This will be followed by Act I of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series, taking place from 5 to 8 November 2026. The monthly winter series will culminate in the 43rd Primo Cup-UBS Trophy, scheduled for 10-14 March 2027.

Eureka Introduces FloorShine 470, Bringing All-Round Wet-and-Dry Cleaning to French Homes

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 09:09:00 +0700

Issuer: Eureka European Public Relations

PARIS, FRANCE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 October 2026 - Eureka has introduced the FloorShine 470 to the French market, combining wet-and-dry floor cleaning, access beneath low furniture and automated brush care in one appliance. Designed for everyday hard-floor maintenance, the model brings together practical features intended to make regular cleaning simpler and more convenient.

As floor-cleaning appliances become increasingly sophisticated, more features do not necessarily mean a better fit for every household. Everyday cleaning still comes down to familiar needs: dealing with spills, removing dust and hair, and reaching areas that are often overlooked. The FloorShine 470 addresses these tasks through a balanced combination of cleaning performance and ease of use, with a recommended retail price of ?279.

With up to 17,000 Pa of suction, the FloorShine 470 combines vacuuming and washing to handle dry debris and liquid spills in a single cleaning routine. Whether collecting crumbs after a meal or removing dirt brought in from outdoors, the appliance is designed to support regular floor care. Its integrated anti-tangle mechanism also helps reduce hair wrapping around the brush roller.

Reaching difficult areas is another consideration in everyday cleaning. The 180-degree lie-flat design allows the FloorShine 470 to clean beneath sofas, beds and other low-clearance furniture. An internal water duct helps prevent wastewater backflow when the appliance is reclined, while the edge-cleaning brush reaches close to walls and skirting boards.

Maintenance has also been considered in the design. After cleaning, an automated self-cleaning and hot-air drying system helps remove residue and moisture from the brush roller, reducing the need for manual upkeep. A redesigned water-tank configuration supports comfortable maneuvering, while separate clean- and dirty-water tanks simplify routine use.

Rather than relying on increasingly complex features, the FloorShine 470 brings together essential cleaning and maintenance functions in an accessible, all-round wet-and-dry cleaner.

Pricing and Availability

The Eureka FloorShine 470 is now available in France through the official Eureka website, with a recommended retail price of ?279. Prices and promotional offers may vary, and the model can also be found by searching for "Eureka FloorShine 470" on Amazon.

Hashtag: #Eureka

About Eureka

Eureka develops household cleaning appliances designed to simplify everyday maintenance. Its portfolio includes cordless vacuum cleaners, robotic cleaners and wet-and-dry floor washers for international markets.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

26-year China-US friendship highlights grassroots efforts to combat desertification

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 09:06:00 +0700

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 October 2026 - People's Daily has released a video documentary titled A 26-year promise: how a $5,000 gift turned a desert into a forest, documenting the reunion of Yin Yuzhen, a Chinese worker fighting desertification, and Ronald Sakolsky, an American visitor, 26 years after Sakolsky donated $5,000 to support her afforestation efforts in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

When Sakolsky first met Yin 26 years ago, she and her husband were working to plant trees under the punishing conditions of the Maowusu Desert. Moved by her resolve, Sakolsky donated $5,000 to support their greening mission. Over the following decades, the couple persevered, gradually transforming a barren expanse of sand into a flourishing forest ecosystem.

The video follows Sakolsky's recent return to China, where he witnessed the results of that long-term commitment firsthand. Combining archival footage with on-the-ground scenes from his visit, the documentary captures an emotional reunion between two individuals from different backgrounds, united by a shared dedication to the environment.

Beyond the personal reunion, their story offers a window into China's long-term desertification control initiatives. Ecological restoration requires more than an initial investment: it depends on decades of sustained local action, scientific care and patient stewardship to reshape a fragile landscape.

Their journey also highlights the enduring vitality of people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States. Separated by geography and culture, Yin and Sakolsky found common ground in restoring the land - demonstrating that grassroots friendship, much like a forest, continues to grow and yield fruit long after the first seeds are planted.

Watch video: https://peoplesdaily.pdnews.cn/trending/er/30053224205

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

VinFast VF MPV 7 wins 'Inspiring Product Service MPV EV of the Year' at Marketeers Editor's Choice Award 2026

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 09:01:00 +0700

Ms. Astrid Ariani Wijana, VinFast Indonesia Marketing Director (left), accepts the award on behalf of the company.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 October 2026 - VinFast VF MPV 7 has been named "Inspiring Product Service MPV EV of the Year" at the Marketeers Editor's Choice Award 2026, recognizing the model's distinctive value and its potential to inspire a greener, more modern, and more empowered lifestyle for individuals and families in Indonesia.

Organized annually by Indonesia's leading marketing magazine Marketeers, the Marketeers Editor's Choice Award celebrates outstanding products and services that demonstrate innovation, creative thinking, and a strong understanding of evolving consumer needs.

Selected from a competitive field of products from international brands, the VinFast VF MPV 7 stood out to the Marketeers editorial team for its practical value for modern families. Combining a spacious seven-seat configuration, smart technology, and smooth electric performance, the electric MPV is designed to meet the diverse mobility needs of the entire family.

Guided by the message "Jalani Hidup dengan Lega" ("Live Life with Ease and Comfort"), the VF MPV 7 offers more than convenience on every journey. It creates room for Indonesian families to enjoy richer shared experiences, from daily commutes through busy cities to longer trips together. This combination of practicality, comfort, and the freedom to make the most of every journey underpins the model's recognition as "Inspiring Product Service MPV EV of the Year".

Arunodoy Das, Chief Executive Officer of VinFast Indonesia, said: "Being recognized at the Marketeers Editor's Choice Award 2026 reinforces VinFast's vision for Indonesia: making electric vehicles a practical, compelling, and accessible choice for more consumers. We believe the green transition can deliver meaningful value only when advanced technology is closely aligned with people's everyday needs and contributes to a better quality of life. With the VF MPV 7, we aim to give Indonesian families a spacious, comfortable, and intelligent mobility space, making every journey an opportunity for richer experiences. This recognition also reflects VinFast's long-term commitment to supporting Indonesia's transition to green mobility and creating lasting value for the future."

The VinFast VF MPV 7 features a spacious and versatile seven-seat cabin, with overall dimensions of 4,740 x 1,872 x 1,734 mm and a wheelbase of 2,840 mm, providing generous interior space for every passenger. Its modern interior features premium synthetic leather seats, a 10.1-inch central infotainment display supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as dedicated air vents across all three seating rows.

Beyond its spacious cabin and electric performance, the VF MPV 7 incorporates smart technologies designed to enhance everyday convenience. The vehicle features an Indonesian-language virtual assistant, a smartphone-based remote vehicle management application, and various driver assistance and safety features, providing added convenience and confidence for family journeys.

Beyond the vehicle itself, VinFast supports Indonesian customers through its "Drive Worry Free" program, built around five pillars: Zero Operating Cost, Battery Peace of Mind, Ownership Confidence, Service Confidence, and Business Confidence. The program offers a range of customer benefits, including a residual value guarantee of up to 80%, free charging at V-GREEN charging stations, two years of free battery subscription, and a comprehensive battery warranty policy.

After more than two years in Indonesia, VinFast continues to strengthen its long-term presence by expanding its product portfolio, developing its distribution and aftersales networks, and accelerating the expansion of V-GREEN charging infrastructure nationwide. These strategic initiatives underscore the company's commitment to making electric mobility more accessible to Indonesian consumers while contributing to the development of green transportation and the broader sustainable transition in Indonesia and across the region.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #VinFast

Next Move, Next Horizon | SHACMAN Group Worldwide Partnership Conference & GlobeFest Held in Xi'an

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:53:00 +0700

XI'AN, China, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On October 15, 2026, the SHACMAN Group Worldwide Partnership Conference & GlobeFest was held at the Xi'an International Convention & Exhibition Center under the theme "Next Move, Next Horizon."

Ren Guo, Secretary of the Party Committee of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of Shaanxi Province, and Liu Yi, Chairman of Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group, were among those in attendance. More than 1,800 dealers, key customers, industry-chain partners and media representatives from nearly 100 countries and regions gathered in Xi'an to explore new opportunities for development in global markets.

In his keynote address, Liu Yi noted that SHACMAN's international vehicle sales grew significantly year on year in the first three quarters of 2026, while the international business accounted for a steadily increasing share of its overall business. As the global commercial vehicle industry undergoes a reshaping of its competitive landscape, SHACMAN outlined three strategic priorities: internationalization as a driver of growth, leadership in new energy, and deeper localization. The company also announced its 2030 targets for international markets.

To implement these priorities, Tian Chao, General Manager of Shaanxi Heavy Duty Automobile Import & Export Co., Ltd., presented a report on international market operations. He outlined five business strategies covering products, markets, financing, services and distribution channels, emphasizing sustained market development alongside global partners to strengthen competitiveness.

The SHACMAN PowerCore brand was officially launched during the conference. Jointly developed by SHACMAN, Weichai Power, Cummins, FAST and HanDe Axle, the brand builds on the proven quality of the "Golden Powertrain" and evolves it into an integrated powertrain core spanning diesel, natural gas, battery-electric, hybrid and hydrogen technologies. It conveys a value commitment to customers worldwide: "Choosing SHACMAN means choosing world-class products and services." SHACMAN also unveiled its "transporte" full life-cycle solution for new energy transport, covering vehicles, energy provision and operational services. A range of new energy products, including hybrid and battery-electric models, were displayed, with several key performance indicators at industry-leading levels.

GlobeFest featured six regional exhibition zones: Asia Pacific, the Middle East, the Americas, Russia & Central Asia, Europe and Africa, each hosting a dedicated "Moment" event. At the Europe Moment, the European-market X6000 and X6000e were presented together, having obtained EU Whole Vehicle Type-Approval (WVTA), with T?V Rheinland presenting the certification plaques on site. At the Africa Moment, a regional service alliance agreement was signed, and a milestone order for exports to Africa was delivered.

To date, SHACMAN products have been exported to more than 160 countries and regions, with cumulative exports exceeding 450,000 vehicles.

Through strategic planning, joint development of its business ecosystem, regional cooperation and service network expansion, SHACMAN is bringing its global partners together to deepen localized operations across its international markets.

ALL ACCOR UNVEILS A NEW REPORT ON TRAVEL: more emotions, more meaning, more memories

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:42:00 +0700

Paris, France - ALL Accor, the Accor group's free Travel & Lifestyle Membership that brings together hotels, experiences and rewards, opens a new chapter with Stay for more, its new global brand platform and international campaign.

TO MARK THE LAUNCH OF STAY FOR MORE

ALL Accor commissioned an OpinionWay study surveying 7,019 travelers across seven markets. Complemented by NellyRodi, the international foresight and brand strategy agency, the research sheds light on the aspirations and emotions that shape travelers' choices.

At a time when travel is just a few clicks away and the possibilities seem endless, travelers are no longer seeking to do more, but to experience what matters most. The research reveals two complementary expectations: the need to step away from the pressures of everyday life and the desire to make more time for themselves and their loved ones.

MORE FREEDOM, MORE EMOTION AND MORE MOMENTS THAT TRULY MATTER

This is the key insight of ALL Accor's new research, that explores the meaning travelers attach to their stays today, and inspires the launch of Stay for more a new expression of the brand.

"Today, the true value of travel is measured not only by the destinations discovered or the experiences enjoyed, but by the deeper meaning and lasting impact it brings to our lives. Time for yourself, bonds that grow stronger, emotions that resonate, memories that endure. This is the belief that drives us with ALL Accor Stay for more: to make travel more than just a stay, and to turn every moment into an opportunity to experience more of what truly matters." MEHDI HEMICI, Chief Loyalty & E-Commerce Officer, Accor.

A NEW DUALITY: LETTING GO AND RECONNECTING

In a world defined by accelerating pace, an overwhelming array of choices and fewer moments to be fully present, travel takes on a meaning that goes far beyond the journey itself.

43% the desire to travel stems first and foremost from the need to unwind after an intense period at work.

20% travel can also mark the beginning of a new chapter.

32% report experiencing stress or fatigue.

44% are above all seeking a sense of freedom, away from the demands of everyday life.

Travel begins with the need to pause and finds its deeper meaning in what it makes possible: time reclaimed, emotions felt and a renewed sense of connection.

EMOTIONS AND MEMORIES: THE NEW CURRENCY OF TRAVEL

In a world where time seems increasingly elusive, emotions and memories have become the new currency of travel. They define the value of a stay and extend the experience long after travelers return home.

A successful trip is, above all...

56% an experience in nature surrounded by exceptional scenery;

47% an immersion in local culture;

46% an unusual experience;

42% a trip that allows them to create meaningfulmemories with their loved ones.

The most powerful memories do not necessarily come from a packed itinerary, but from experiences that break away from the ordinary. Travelers are not simply seeking a destination or a stay, but the kind of memories that only travel can create.

Travel becomes a way to feel more deeply, share meaningful moments and connect with a place and its culture. In this evolving landscape, the hotel is far more than somewhere to sleep, it becomes a starting point for new discoveries, passions to explore, unexpected encounters and moments that might never have happened otherwise.

FOUR ASPIRATIONS TO FULLY EMBRACE THE JOURNEY

The research reveals four ways to experience travel differently, bringing travelers closer to what truly matters. These four aspirations are not mutually exclusive, but complementary, together offering a new perspective on what makes a travel experience meaningful.

More peace of mind. In a daily life saturated with decisions, travel offers a rare opportunity: to find space to breathe. 34% of respondents seek a sense of calm, 25% want to enjoy their time away without having to plan everything themselves. Slowing down, letting the moment unfold, leaving the planning and coordination behind to simply savor the present moment.

More connections.Travel is also about making time to be together. 43% spending quality time with loved ones is a priority, 35% travel to reunite with family and friends or share a getaway, 26% the happiness of those closest to them directly contributes to the quality of their trip.Time spent together becomes a memory in its own right.

More extraordinary experiences. Sometimes, all it takes is a moment that could never be recreated. 28% want to experience something rare. 34% seek out experiences they could not have had otherwise. 46% identify the unusual as a key ingredient in an unforgettable memory. Travel then offers a pause, away from the usual pace of life.

More affirmation. Travel is also a way to reconnect with yourself. 28% travel to gain perspective and refocus. 18% say they do so to rediscover sides of themselves that rarely emerge in everyday life. Choosing one's own pace, following personal interests and experiencing a stay on one's own terms become ways of expressing who we truly are.

These four aspirations reflect a shared desire: to make the most of travel, at one's own pace and one's own terms. Whether it means taking a breath, reconnecting with others, embracing the unexpected or gaining perspective, everyone has their own way of experiencing more of what truly matters.

LOYALTY IS NO LONGER MEASURED IN POINTS

Loyalty programs already influence booking decisions: 65% of respondents say they favor brands that allow them to earn points or benefits. Among 25- to 35-year-olds, this figure rises to 75%. Yet the research shows that travelers now expect more than transactional rewards.

THEY WANT A LOYALTY PROGRAM THAT MAKES THEM FEEL SOMETHING:

36% want to feel rewarded for their loyalty;

31% want to feel confident and at ease;

25% want access to experiences not everyone can enjoy;

20% want to be surprised by unexpected gestures.

ALL Accor turns points and benefits into experiences, thoughtful gestures and new possibilities. Each stay adds value to the next, fostering a relationship that becomes increasingly personal, relevant and rewarding. Loyalty is no longer measured solely by the number of nights spent, but by the possibilities it unlocks.

STAY FOR MORE, A PROMISE BROUGHT TO LIFE

Stay for more is built on a simple belief: more of what truly matters is not about quantity, but about what gives each experience its value. It is about how travel makes us feel, in ways that are more fulfilling, more personal and more relevant to each traveler.

At ALL Accor, this promise takes shape in practical terms: more destinations & hotel brands you love, more recognition, more experiences, more peace of mind. From free membership, that unlocks member rates and benefits from the very first stay, to premium tiers designed for the most frequent travelers, ALL Accor tailors the relationship to each traveler's pace. Every interaction is designed to be seamless, personal and rewarding.

A CAMPAIGN THAT PUTS EMOTION AT THE HEART OF THE EXPERIENCE

This promise comes to life in a campaign developed by creative agency Saatchi & Saatchi, Publicis Group. It starts with a clear idea: what makes a trip memorable is not just the place visited or the activities enjoyed, but above all the emotions these experiences evoke.

Each story follows the same progression: a tangible experience, the feeling it evokes, and the added value it brings. A moment of feeling recognized, a discovery that broadens horizons, an experience encountered for the first time, or the freedom to savor the moment fully. This new platform not only redefines what ALL Accor promises, but also how the brands speaks to travelers: with a more direct, warmer and subtly witty tone, grounded in the realities of travel.

Rolled out internationally, the campaign is built around a shared brand and communication platform, while adapting to the behaviors, aspirations and specificities of each market. It spans more than 20 markets worldwide, including France, the United Kingdom, Australia and Brazil, supported by a major international media campaign. The campaign is further brought to life through social media activations that spotlight content creators and communities, targeted digital and CRM communications, and exclusive Limited Experiences specially designed to bring the Stay for more promise to life.

One universal promise, a thousand ways to experience more of what truly matters.

"Through our new brand promise, ALL Accor, Stay for more champions a vision of hospitality that goes far beyond the stay itself. One that brings richer experiences, deeper emotions and more moments that truly matter. Our ambition is to offer everyone more possibilities, thoughtful touches that make all the difference, and the freedom to experience every journey in their own way. Because that is the very essence of our promise: not simply to experience more, but to experience more of what truly matters, when it matters most." MEHDI HEMICI, Chief Loyalty & E-Commerce Officer, Accor.

ALL ACCOR, BEYOND THE STAY

ALL Accor, the Accor group's free Travel & Lifestyle Membership, brings together more than 45 hotel brands and over 5,800 hotels across more than 110 countries. From prestigious addresses to premium, lifestyle and more accessible brands, ALL Accor connects destinations, experiences and rewards to make every stay more personal.

With Stay for more, ALL Accor goes beyond the booking itself, helping everyone experience more of what truly matters, throughout every stay and every day.

ALL Accor

St?phanie Gabriel - Global SVP Brand, Marketing & Sponsorship ALL Accor - stephanie.gabriel@accor.com

Lucie Metzger - Global VP Brand Communication & Media ALL Accor - lucie.metzger@accor.com

Alexis Blottiere - PR & Media Relations Director Accor - alexis.blottiere@accor.com

About ALL Accor : ALL Accor is Accor's group free Travel & Lifestyle Membership that brings together hotels, experiences and rewards turning every stay into something more - more destinations and hotel brands you love, more recognition, more experiences, more peace of mind, more meaningful choices, and more of what matters to every member. ALL Accor offers meaningful rewards, exclusive benefits and access to more than 45 hotel brands and 140 renowned partners, as well as over 7,300 experiences each year - from local discoveries and exceptional dining to chef masterclasses, major sporting events and the world's most anticipated concerts. Every interaction is designed to feel seamless, personal and rewarding, bringing peace of mind at every step.Discover the full ALL Accor experience with the app, available on the App Store and Google Play.

Monaco's yachting industry explores new markets and future trends

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:39:00 +0700

MONACO, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Around 100 yachting professionals gathered at the Yacht Club de Monaco on Thursday, 8 October, for the Winter Pop-Up organized by Cluster Yachting Monaco.

Brokers, captains, owners and companies discussed market trends, the impact of geopolitics and the outlook for sailing superyachts. Nine yachts were displayed in the YCM Marina as part of the Open Day.

In his opening remarks, Bernard d'Alessandri, Director and Secretary General of the Yacht Club de Monaco and President of both Cluster Yachting Monaco and the Monaco Yachting Chamber, stressed the importance of involving younger generations in discussions about the sector's future.

Covering customs duties, international sanctions, compliance constraints, inflation and geopolitical instability, the panel chaired by Rachel Fisher (JMS Yachting) examined the tangible impacts on the market of the geopolitical climate and highlighted new areas being developed. Omer Malaz, founder of Numarine, highlighted opportunities in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

However, building a comprehensive yachting ecosystem will take 10 to 15 years, according to Maxwell Andrews, Executive Advisor at Monaco House Saudi Arabia.

In his opinion, Monaco could play an important role thanks to its concentration of expertise, experience and investment. Yacht-building geography is also changing. Turkey is moving upmarket and narrowing the price gap with European shipyards. Malaz predicted that shipbuilding would increasingly shift eastwards, citing Turkey, Dubai and Poland.

The latest figures from Monaco Statistics and Economic Studies Institute (IMSEE) point to significant growth in the Principality's maritime economy and yachting industry. The sector generates EUR659.7 million in revenue, excluding financial and insurance activities, up 16.3% compared with 2022. It comprises 475 establishments, an increase of 15.6%, and employs 1,495 people, up 4.6%. Wholesale remains the sector's largest contributor, generating EUR361 million in revenue in 2025.

The final session focused on large sailing superyachts, which remain a small niche compared with motor yachts. High costs for masts and rigging are among the main obstacles, while owners increasingly seek more space, stability, deck terraces and direct access to the sea. Reducing environmental impact is also becoming an important consideration, although the sector faces a shortage of sailing expertise among younger professionals, including brokers and crew.

Despite the costs and technical challenges, demand for bespoke sailing projects remains strong, driven by owners' passion for the experience and, in some cases, a desire to reduce their environmental footprint.

Founded in 2014, Cluster Yachting Monaco brings together more than 100 companies representing the Principality's yachting industry. Its next annual general meeting will take place on 9 December 2026.

AACSB Deans Survey Finds AI and Finances Are Top of Mind

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:19:00 +0700

Global 2026-27 Deans Survey of 558 leaders identifies artificial intelligence as the clearest professional development challenge for deans, regardless of experience or region

TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AACSB International (AACSB) today released 2026-27 Deans Survey: Findings in Focus, a look at global business school leadership. The survey is conducted every three years and this year received responses from 558 leaders, including 522 deans or equivalent heads of schools and 36 interim deans, across 75 countries and territories.

Artificial intelligence is the clearest professional development challenge for deans, regardless of experience or region. AI in education and research ranks second in priority among 49 typical dean activities, yet it shows the largest gap between priority and self-rated proficiency. Time is a barrier: 84 percent of deans report limited, very limited, or no time for professional development.

"Today's deans are more prepared to lead through change than ever before," said Lily Bi, president and chief executive officer of AACSB. "The question now is whether they have the time, resources, and peer connections to turn ambition into action. AACSB's responsibility is not to observe these changes. It is to help our members lead through them."

The survey also finds:

Finances are the most commonly cited challenge in deans' open-ended responses: 34 percent mention budget, finances, or resources among their top challenges, followed by enrollment and student recruitment.

Deanships are getting shorter. The average tenure of predecessor deans fell from 6.8 years in 2020-21 to 5.7 years, and current deans have been in their positions for an average of 3.9 years.

A substantial majority of deans-87 percent-feel fulfilled by their work, but just half of respondents report having their desired work-life balance.

The report also explores how the dean profile is becoming more diverse and international, and how priorities for development and school readiness differ by region and by deans' experience. The full report is available at aacsb.edu/deans-survey. The report was supported by Risepoint.

About AACSB

Established in 1916, AACSB International (AACSB) connects educators, learners, and businesses to create the next generation of great leaders. With more than 2,000 member organizations and over 1,000 accredited business schools worldwide, AACSB is the world's largest business education network. Through the AACSB Global Standards for Business Education, accreditation, and thought leadership, AACSB fosters engagement, accelerates innovation, and amplifies impact in business education. Learn more at aacsb.edu.

TestMu AI Launches New Experience in KaneAI, Turning Recorded Tests into Objectives That Repair Themselves

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:14:00 +0700

The new authoring engine underpins Adaptive Heal and Dynamic Test, so a test that breaks on a changed interface is re-authored and held for review instead of silently passing or simply failing

SAN FRANCISCO and NOIDA, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TestMu AI, the Full Stack Agentic AI Quality Engineering platform, announced New Experience, a new authoring engine in KaneAI that holds a test as a set of objectives rather than a recorded click path.

Because the objective survives a change that the recorded steps do not, KaneAI can re-author a test against the interface in front of it and hold the rewrite as a version for a person to approve or decline.

KaneAI now authors on two engines. The original is called Classic, the new one is New Experience, and every test case carries a label showing which one authored it. New Experience currently covers Desktop Web browsers, the same surface Kane CLI runs on.

Test maintenance has been the standing cost of UI automation, and the industry's answer has been to repair broken selectors. That answer has a ceiling. When an interface is restructured rather than renamed, there is no selector left to repair, and the objective behind the test is the only part that survives. That is why the authoring engine had to change before the maintenance behaviour could.

What New Experience brings: Adaptive Heal, Dynamic Test and more

*Adaptive Heal: Re-authors the objective containing the failing step, and every objective after it, so the run finishes instead of stopping. *Objectives that already ran keep the result they replayed.

*Dynamic Test: Skips the recorded steps and authors every objective from its intent on every run, for interfaces that change so often a recorded script is a liability.

*Self-maintenance: The single setting holding both, alongside Retry on Failure, with exactly one active at a time. Set for an organization, a project or a run.

*Auto-approve changes: Decides whether a re-authored version becomes current immediately or waits for a verdict. It ships switched off.

*Evidence Pack: A fuller report covering coverage and the business use cases behind the tests, available only when every test case in a run is New Experience and on Chrome.

A re-authored version arrives in Version History as a draft, attributed to the strategy that produced it rather than to whoever started the run. A reviewer compares it against the current version and approves or declines: approving regenerates the exported code, declining leaves the current version untouched.

"A test that repairs itself is only useful if you can still say what it proves. New Experience holds a test as objectives rather than a recorded click path, so an agent can rewrite the path when the product moves, because the objective is still there to rewrite it against," said Mayank Bhola, Co-Founder and Head of Products, TestMu AI.

"We shipped the approval gate switched off by default for the same reason. A step can fail because a button moved or because the feature broke, and at the moment of failure those two look identical. Re-authoring around the second one turns a real defect into a passing test. The industry has sold self-healing as a way to stop looking at tests. We think it is a way to look at far fewer of them, far more carefully."

New Experience is available in KaneAI. Adaptive Heal and Dynamic Test apply to test cases authored with New Experience and configured for Chrome; every other test case replays its recorded steps as before. Re-authoring consumes authoring credits, and a run in which nothing fails to replay does not trigger it.

About TestMu AI

TestMu AI is a full-stack agentic AI Quality Engineering platform that empowers teams to test intelligently and ship faster. Engineered for scale and AI-native by design, it offers end-to-end AI agents to plan, author, execute, and analyze software quality across web, mobile, and enterprise applications on real devices, real browsers, and custom real-world environments.

GTCFX Appoints Charbel Raffoul as CEO, Strengthening Executive Leadership and Global Growth Strategy

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:10:00 +0700

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GTCFX is pleased to announce the appointment of Charbel Raffoul as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), marking an important milestone in the company's continued development and commitment to operational excellence, strong leadership, and international growth.

With nearly two decades of experience in the financial services industry, Charbel brings extensive expertise in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, financial operations, and strategic management. His appointment further strengthens GTCFX's executive leadership team as the company advances its long-term strategic objectives and expands its capabilities across global financial markets.

Extensive Experience Across Leading Financial Institutions

Prior to joining GTCFX, Charbel served as Chief Compliance Officer & Financial Crime at Equiti, where he spent more than eight years contributing to the advancement of compliance frameworks, compliance risk management, and regulatory practices.

His professional career also includes senior positions at several established financial institutions, including Director at ADS Securities, Head of Compliance at Alpari ME, and Back Office Manager at Swissquote.

Throughout his career, Charbel has developed valuable expertise in financial services operations, regulatory oversight, risk management, and organizational governance. His experience across multiple areas of the industry provides a strong foundation for leading GTCFX and supporting its continued development.

Advancing GTCFX's Global Vision

As Chief Executive Officer, Charbel will guide GTCFX's strategic direction, focusing on strengthening operational capabilities, advancing innovation, enhancing corporate governance, and supporting international business development.

His leadership will contribute to the company's ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency, strengthen relationships with clients and partners, and deliver long-term value through professional services and responsible business practices.

Combining his extensive industry knowledge with a strong understanding of regulatory and operational standards, Charbel brings a valuable perspective to GTCFX's continued evolution in the global financial services sector.

His appointment reflects GTCFX's commitment to building an experienced leadership team capable of supporting the company's strategic ambitions while maintaining high standards of professionalism, integrity, and transparency.

Building on Experience, Moving Forward with Confidence

As GTCFX continues to develop its international presence and strengthen its organizational capabilities, experienced executive leadership remains central to its long-term vision.

Charbel's professional background, industry knowledge, and management experience will play an important role in supporting the company's next stage of development.

GTCFX warmly welcomes Charbel Raffoul as Chief Executive Officer and looks forward to his leadership in shaping a new chapter of innovation, progress, and sustainable global growth.

VIVUS Announces Positive Outcome of European Procedure to Extend QSIVA (Phentermine/Topiramate MR) to Adolescents with Obesity

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 07:57:00 +0700

VIVUS Announces Positive Outcome of European Procedure to Extend QSIVA (Phentermine/Topiramate MR) to Adolescents with Obesity

- Landmark European approval will grant young patients and families an evidence-based therapy alongside lifestyle interventions

AMSTERDAM, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VIVUS BV, a subsidiary of VIVUS LLC, a biopharmaceutical company committed to the development and commercialization of innovative therapies that focus on advancing treatments for patients with serious unmet medical needs and life-limiting diseases, today announced the positive conclusion of the European variation procedure to extend the indication of QSIVA (phentermine/topiramate MR) to adolescents aged 12 years and older with obesity.

The national medicines agencies of the 17 countries in the procedure will now issue national decisions, expected in as little as 30 days. QSIVA is already approved in these countries for weight management in adults: Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Greece*, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden.

"Adolescent obesity represents one of the most pressing public health challenges in Europe today," said John Amos, Chief Executive Officer at VIVUS LLC. "Securing broader access for QSIVA allows us to bridge a significant gap in pediatric care, offering clinicians and families an evidence-based treatment option when lifestyle changes alone aren't enough."

The positive outcome of the variation procedure was based on results from a 2022 study, a double-blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial that evaluated the safety and efficacy of phentermine/topiramate MR over a 56-week period in 223 adolescents with obesity.

"Treating obesity early in life is critical to breaking a cycle that can cause severe, lifelong health issues," said Santosh T. Varghese, MD, President at VIVUS Global Pharmaceutical Development and Chief Medical Officer at VIVUS LLC. "With broader European access to QSIVA, healthcare providers will have a therapeutic tool to help adolescents manage weight alongside diet and exercise before long-term complications set in."

Globally, obesity and overweight pose significant public health challenges, impacting millions of people across Europe. These conditions increase the risk of various health problems, such as heart disease and autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, arthritis, and type 1 diabetes.

VIVUS markets its phentermine/topiramate extended-release therapy under the brand name QSYMIA in the United States, Greece, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and under the brand name QSIVA, the European brand name for QSYMIA, in approved countries across Europe. QSYMIA has been available in the United States since 2012, and its indication was extended to adolescents aged 12 years and older on June 27, 2022. In March 2025, VIVUS launched QSYMIA in the United Arab Emirates for adults and pediatric patients aged 12 and older, marking the company's entry into the MENA region.

QSIVA is already approved for adults in 17 European countries, and will now be extended to adolescents in these same countries following national approvals. For more information about QSIVA, please visit https://qsiva.eu/.

About VIVUS

VIVUS is a biopharmaceutical company committed to the development and commercialization of innovative therapies that focus on advancing treatments for patients with serious unmet medical needs. For more information about the Company, please visit http://www.vivus.com.

About QSIVA

QSIVA (phentermine/topiramate MR) (the European brand name for QSYMIA) is approved in Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden. QSIVA is indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obese) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) in the presence of at least one weight-related medical condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. The effect of QSIVA on reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established.

The safety and effectiveness of QSIVA in combination with other products intended for weight loss, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and herbal preparations, have not been established. For more information on QSIVA, please visit www.QSIVA.eu. The website is accessible for healthcare professionals only through registration.

Important Safety Information

QSIVA (phentermine/topiramate MR) is contraindicated in pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using highly effective contraception, as topiramate can cause major congenital malformations. Do not use QSIVA in patients with glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or MAOI use. Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), also known as multiorgan hypersensitivity, has been reported in patients taking topiramate, an ingredient in QSIVA. QSIVA may cause increased heart rate, mood changes, and cognitive disturbances; caution is advised when driving. Common adverse reactions include paraesthesia, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth.

Forward-Looking Statements

Important Information and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and/or covered by the "Bespeaks Caution" doctrine applied by the courts under the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws, and other applicable provisions of the federal securities laws. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, management's beliefs, and certain assumptions made by the Company's management. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "will," "shall," "may," "believe," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "anticipate," "predict," "should," "plan," "likely," "opportunity," "estimated," and "potential," and/or the negative use of these words or other similar words. All forward-looking statements included in this document are based on the Company's current expectations, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements except to the extent otherwise required by law.

Forward-looking information about QSIVA, including statements regarding the expected extension of its indication to adolescents aged 12 years and older, the timing and outcome of national decisions in the 17 countries in the procedure, its clinical efficacy and safety profile in adolescents, and its role in long-term obesity management, involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in this press release.

Risks related to QSIVA include whether, and when, the national medicines agencies in each country will issue decisions extending the indication to adolescents; the final wording of the adolescent indication, warnings and other labeling agreed in each country; conditions of use in adolescents, including the requirements of the topiramate pregnancy prevention program for adolescents of childbearing potential; whether, and when, pricing and reimbursement will be obtained for adolescent use in each country; acceptance of QSIVA by pediatric and other prescribers, patients and families; new safety findings or adverse events in the adolescent population, including from post-authorization commitments; competitive developments in the weight management market including injectable medications and other treatments approved for adolescents, and whether QSIVA will continue to be commercially successful in approved markets.

General risks include the ability to successfully manage commercial programs across multiple international markets; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of QSIVA; supply chain challenges; and competitive developments in the obesity and weight management therapeutic area.

The above factors, risks, and uncertainties are difficult to predict, contain uncertainties that may materially affect actual results, and may be beyond the Company's control. New factors, risks, and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all such factors, risks, and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore any of these statements may prove to be inaccurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation or warranty by the Company or any other person that the Company's objectives and plans will be achieved.

These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date such statements were made or any earlier date indicated, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in underlying assumptions, or otherwise, unless otherwise required by law. This announcement is made in accordance with applicable securities regulations including the EU Market Abuse Regulation. This press release is intended for the European market only.

TIRI 2026 Annual Conference Advances Investor Relations Through Value and Trust

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 07:51:00 +0700

Photo Title: TIRI Hosts Its 8th Annual Conference in Taipei on October 16, 2026

Caption: Representatives from Taiwan's financial regulatory authorities, the Taiwan Stock Exchange, Taipei Exchange, Taiwan Depository & Clearing Corporation, and leading financial and corporate institutions attended the Taiwan Investor Relations Institute's (TIRI) 8th Annual Conference in Taipei on October 16, 2026.

TAIPEI, Taiwan, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Taiwan Investor Relations Institute (TIRI) held its eighth Annual Conference at Regent Taipei, highlighting the shift from financial disclosure to strategic dialogue, sustainable value creation and long-term investor trust.

"IR must go beyond explaining what a company has done to articulate the value it intends to create," said TIRI Chairman Jonny Kuo.

International speakers Daniela Peeva, Chairperson of the Bulgarian Investor Relations Association (ABIRD), and Oskar Yasar, Managing Partner of Broome Yasar Partnership, shared perspectives on nurturing future IR professionals through IR Junior and the emerging revolution in investor relations.

The fifth TIRI Awards recognized excellence across Taiwan's listed (TWSE) and over-the-counter (TPEx) markets. Winners of Best Investor Relations Company and Best Investor Relations Officer, respectively, were:

TWSE mega-cap: Global Unichip Corp. (3443) - Nicole Chan.

TWSE large-cap: Chenbro Micom Co., Ltd. (8210) - Peggy Tsai.

TWSE small/mid-cap: CviLux Corporation (8103) - Maggie Wang.

TPEx large-cap: Phison Electronics Corp. (8299) - Kuo-Ting Lu.

TPEx small/mid-cap: NETRONIX, INC. (6143) - Tessa Huang.

The Market Capitalization Growth Award recognized 12 companies for their outstanding year-on-year market capitalization growth: Ventec (6672), ESMT (3006), C SUN (2467), Dynamic Holding (3715), Apacer (8271), QPC (4722), Silicon Power (4973), CHINSAN (8042), inergy (6693), Sinopower (6435), Etron (5351) and ARLITECH (6432).

TIRI also recognized its second cohort of TIRIC professional certification recipients, reinforcing professional IR standards. As Taiwan transitions from corporate governance evaluations to an ESG Evaluation system, TIRI will support sustainability governance and promote Taiwan Index Plus Corporation's IR Engagement Service Platform 2.0 to strengthen dialogue with institutional investors.

"Good IR is not about lifting the share price today. It is about helping investors better understand and trust a company, and stay with it for the long term," Kuo said.

Through education, industry recognition and international partnerships, TIRI aims to connect Taiwan's capital markets more closely with global investors.

"The Great Cities of Italy": Italpreziosi presents a silver collection dedicated to the beauty of the country

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 07:46:00 +0700

AREZZO, Italy, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Italpreziosi, an Arezzo-based company specializing in the refining and trading of precious metals, presents Le Grandi Citt? d'Italia, a collection of six collectible 999 fine silver ingots dedicated to Venice, Florence, Rome, Milan, Naples, and Pisa.

This project celebrates Italian history, art, and cultural heritage through some of the country's most iconic cities. Each ingot weighs two troy ounces (62.2 grams) and features a full-color depiction of its dedicated city on the obverse. The reverse, finished with an antique technique, displays the silver purity, weight, Italpreziosi hallmark, and a unique serial number.

The collection is a limited edition of only 150 numbered pieces per city, totaling 900 individual ingots. Each ingot comes with a certificate of authenticity bearing a matching serial number and is presented in a black box, housed inside a sleeve illustrated with the same view featured on the product.

"Italian cities safeguard a fundamental part of our history and identity. With this collection, we wanted to showcase some of the nation's most representative landmarks through a precious metal object that combines manufacturing quality, attention to detail, and cultural significance. It is also a way to carry a memory of one's city or a cherished place with them," stated Ivana Ciabatti, Founder, President, and CEO of Italpreziosi.

The "Le Grandi Citt? d'Italia" collection is available on the Italpreziosi online shop and through the Italpreziosi app. Prices, inclusive of VAT, can be viewed on each individual product page.

Technical Specifications -

* Metal: 999 fine silver

* Weight: 2 troy ounces (62.2 grams)

* Dimensions: 40.8 ? 24.2 ? 7.15 mm

* Finish: full-color obverse, antique reverse

* Mintage: 150 numbered pieces per city, 900 total

* Packaging: black box, illustrated sleeve, and certificate of authenticity

The "Le Grandi Citt? d'Italia collection" combines the intrinsic value of silver with the artistic and cultural dimension of a limited-edition series, serving both as a collectible item and an opportunity for individuals seeking physical silver ownership through a product celebrating Italian heritage.

Italpreziosi Founded in Arezzo in 1984, Italpreziosi operates in the refining, production, and trading of precious metals, serving banks, industrial partners, jewelry manufacturers, and private clients.

The company has been a member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) since 2008 and holds a spot on the LBMA Good Delivery List for gold since 2018 and silver since 2026. Through its online store and app, Italpreziosi offers private buyers a selection of precious metal bars and coins.

Zymeworks Appoints Suzanne Monahan as Senior Vice President, Commercial and General Manager, Theravance Biopharma

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 22:04:00 +0700

VANCOUVER, British Columbia , Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zymeworks Inc. (Nasdaq: ZYME), a biotechnology company managing a portfolio of licensed healthcare assets while developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics, today announced that Suzanne Monahan has been appointed Senior Vice President, Commercial and General Manager, Theravance Biopharma, effective immediately.

Reporting directly to Kenneth Galbraith, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Zymeworks, Ms. Monahan will lead Zymeworks' commercial strategy and execution for YUPELRI (revefenacin), the first and only once-daily, nebulized long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) approved in the U.S. for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), following the Company's recent acquisition of Theravance Biopharma.

"Suzanne is a proven commercial leader who has launched, scaled and grown products across hospital, specialty, and respiratory markets, and who knows how to build strong partnerships that deliver results," said Kenneth Galbraith, Chair and Chief Executive Officer. "Her track record of driving sustained growth and her deep experience in market access and strategic collaborations make her ideally suited to lead our commercial efforts for YUPELRI. I am delighted to welcome her to Zymeworks."

"I am thrilled to join Zymeworks at such an important time for the Company and for YUPELRI," said Ms. Monahan. "YUPELRI is a differentiated medicine that makes a real difference for people living with COPD, and I am excited to work with the talented YUPELRI team to build on its momentum and to help more patients and providers benefit from it. I look forward to getting started."

Ms. Monahan brings more than 20 years of commercial leadership experience across the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, with expertise spanning sales, marketing, commercial operations, market access, distribution and strategic partnerships. She most recently served as Senior Vice President at Pacira BioSciences, where she was a commercial leader spanning multiple sales forces and a strategic partnerships group, and served on the joint steering and joint commercial committees governing partnered brands. Prior to Pacira, Ms. Monahan spent more than five years at Shionogi Inc., most recently as Vice President, Sales, where she led the launch of a hospital-based, IV gram-negative anti-infective and drove sustained double-digit annual growth. Earlier, as Vice President, Business Unit at Circassia Pharmaceuticals, she led a full-P&L respiratory diagnostic device business and helped partner on the relaunch of a LAMA product in the COPD market. She began her pharmaceutical career at Sanofi-Aventis and spent nine years at Salix Pharmaceuticals in roles of increasing responsibility, including National Sales Director, Institutional, Federal & Specialty Accounts. Ms. Monahan holds a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Marketing from Quinnipiac University.

About Zymeworks Inc.

Zymeworks is a global biotechnology company building a diversified portfolio of healthcare assets designed to generate durable cash flows while advancing innovative medicines for difficult-to-treat diseases. The Company's asset and royalty aggregation strategy combines a growing portfolio of commercial and near-commercial assets, including YUPELRI (revefenacin), with a differentiated internal research and development engine. Zymeworks' portfolio also includes Ziihera (zanidatamab-hrii), a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody discovered and developed by Zymeworks and commercialized through global partnerships with Jazz Pharmaceuticals and BeOne Medicines, and pasritamig, a clinical-stage multispecific antibody developed by Johnson & Johnson using Zymeworks' proprietary antibody engineering technologies.

Zymeworks is advancing a diverse pipeline of novel biotherapeutics, leveraging its proprietary Azymetric platform and expertise in antibody-drug conjugates, multispecific antibodies and other next-generation antibody technologies. These capabilities, together with Zymeworks' integrated drug development expertise, enable the Company to develop differentiated therapeutics and create value through both internal innovation and strategic partnerships.

For more information about Zymeworks, its portfolio and pipeline, visit www.zymeworks.com and follow @ZymeworksInc on X.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" or information within the meaning of the applicable securities legislation, including Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Theravance Biopharma; the anticipated benefits of the financing in connection with the closing of the acquisition; anticipated milestones payments; Zymeworks' ability to utilize Irish tax attributes; Zymeworks' flexibility to invest in its R&D pipeline and pursue strategic opportunities while returning capital to stockholders; future growth of YUPELRI sales and future royalty payments; sales and future royalty payments related to VIBATIV; contingent milestone payments due to Theravance Biopharma from the sale of Theravance Biopharma's TRELEGY ELLIPTA royalty interests; the repayment of the non-recourse note issued to OMERS Life Sciences; Zymeworks' expectations regarding implementation of its long-term strategy to maximize value creation; Zymeworks' and its partners' clinical development of product candidates; potential safety profile and therapeutic effects of product candidates; the commercial potential of technology platforms and product candidates; the anticipated benefits of its collaboration agreements; the Company's 2026 full year guidance and other information that is not historical information. When used herein, words such as "plan", "believe", "expect", "may", "continue", "anticipate", "potential", "will", "on track", "progress", "preserve", "intend", "could", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements or information that refer to expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, performance or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking. All forward-looking statements are based upon Zymeworks' current expectations and various assumptions. Zymeworks believes there is a reasonable basis for its expectations and beliefs, but they are inherently uncertain.

Zymeworks may not realize its expectations, and its beliefs may not prove correct. Actual results could differ materially from those described or implied by such forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: risks related to the financing in connection with the closing of the acquisition; any of Zymeworks' or its partners' product candidates may fail in development, may not receive required regulatory approvals, or may be delayed to a point where they are not commercially viable; uncertainties regarding the commercial success of YUPELRI, TRELEGY and VIBATIV; the anticipated benefits of the acquisition may not be realized or will not be realized within the expected time period; TRELEGY may not achieve anticipated sales resulting in sales milestones not being met; Zymeworks may not achieve milestones or receive additional payments or royalties under its collaborations; regulatory agencies may impose additional requirements or delay the initiation of clinical trials; the impact of new or changing laws and regulations; market conditions, including the impact of tariffs; potential negative impacts of FDA regulatory delays and uncertainty around recent policy developments, changes in the leadership of federal agencies such as the FDA, staff layoffs, budget cuts to agency programs and research, and changes in drug pricing controls; the impact of pandemics and other health crises on Zymeworks' business, research and clinical development plans and timelines and results of operations, including impact on its clinical trial sites, collaborators, and contractors who act for or on Zymeworks' behalf; zanidatamab may not be successfully commercialized; Zymeworks' business strategy related to anticipated and potential future milestones and royalty streams and existing and potential new partnerships may not be successfully implemented; Zymeworks' evolution of its business strategy may not deliver meaningful stockholder returns; Zymeworks may be unsuccessful in actively managing and/or aggregating revenue-generating assets alongside its active R&D operations; ongoing and future clinical trials may not demonstrate safety and efficacy of any of Zymeworks' or its collaborators' product candidates; data providing early validation of our antibody drug conjugate platform and next generation pipeline programs may not be replicated in future studies; Zymeworks' assumptions and estimates regarding its financial condition, future financial performance and estimated cash runway may be incorrect; inability to maintain or enter into new partnerships or strategic collaborations; the inability of Zymeworks to identify and consummate a strategic acquisition; and the factors described under "Risk Factors" in Zymeworks' quarterly and annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (copies of which may be obtained at www.sec.gov and www.sedarplus.ca).

Although Zymeworks believes that such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance they will prove to be correct. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The above assumptions, risks and uncertainties are not exhaustive. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as may be required by law, Zymeworks undertakes no obligation to update, republish, or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances, or to reflect the occurrences of unanticipated events.

GTIA Launches Managed Intelligence Alliance to Help IT Service Providers Deliver AI to SMBs at Scale

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:59:00 +0700

Charter Member Pax8 joined by Founding Party Members CrowdStrike, Cynet, F1 Information Technologies, Lyra, Microsoft, New Charter, NinjaOne, Rev.io and Sourcepass to co-develop channel standards, accreditation and research with IT Service Providers (ITSPs)

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AI is rapidly emerging as the next major service category for the IT channel, but the practices needed to support it are still taking shape. To address this need, the Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) today launched the Managed Intelligence Alliance, a vendor-neutral program designed to help IT service providers deliver artificial intelligence to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) securely, responsibly and at scale.

Previewed at ChannelCon 2026, the Managed Intelligence Alliance elevates the voice and leadership of IT service providers (ITSPs), influencing how AI and Managed Intelligence are developed and delivered through the channel worldwide.

Pax8 is the Alliance's Charter Member, with Rob Rae, Corporate Vice President of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8, leading it as Chair. In this role, Rae will help guide the group's work and foster collaboration across the industry. Founding Party Members include:

CrowdStrike

Cynet

F1 Information Technologies

Lyra

Microsoft

New Charter

NinjaOne

Rev.io

Sourcepass

Pulling from GTIA's extensive research, GTIA CEO Dan Wensley said while AI is emerging as a major service category for the IT channel, many providers lack a practical path from customer interest to secure, repeatable offerings.

"AI is creating an enormous opportunity for the channel, but trust must come first," said Wensley. "The industry needs common standards and practical guidance that providers can use. The Managed Intelligence Alliance extends GTIA's role in helping the channel navigate change, and will help ITSPs identify valuable use cases, establish trusted delivery practices and manage AI responsibly at scale."

Shaping the Future of Managing Artificial Intelligence

Participating GTIA members will collaborate with the Alliance through working groups, and chair and aid in the development of research, standards, accreditation frameworks and best practices. GTIA will publish standards and accreditation frameworks openly and at no cost, extending the work beyond members to promote greater consistency and trust across the channel.

"As demand for secure, managed AI accelerates, the channel is uniquely positioned to shape this emerging market and help organizations capitalize on AI innovation today and in the future," said Carlo Tortora Brayda, VP, Industry Standards & Director, Managed Intelligence Alliance at GTIA. "By bringing providers, vendors and other stakeholders together, the Alliance will create the standards, research, and shared practices needed to turn AI opportunity into trusted, repeatable customer services."

Tortora Brayda was recruited by GTIA and has joined as the association's Vice President of Industry Standards and Director of the Managed Intelligence Alliance, leading the Alliance's day-to-day operations, advancing the priorities set by the Executive Council. By bringing together perspectives from across the ecosystem, the initiative is designed to keep the work unbiased and focused on advancing the industry and serving customers, rather than furthering the commercial interests of any one organization.

Four Priorities for Managed Intelligence

As previously reported, GTIA's Managed Intelligence Alliance will focus on four core areas:

Open Specifications: Frameworks and protocols that improve consistency in how data moves across the Managed Intelligence ecosystem.

Capability Standards: Baseline requirements for delivering Managed Intelligence in the channel.

Accreditation Programs: Vendor-neutral validation of provider and vendor capabilities, developed in collaboration with the Consortium for Responsible IT Services.

Research and Intelligence: Market research, technical analysis and policy guidance for a rapidly evolving market.

"AI is creating enormous opportunity, but technology alone is not enough. Small businesses need practical, secure ways to put AI to work, supported by implementation expertise, strong governance and trusted advisors," said Nick Heddy, President and Chief Commerce Officer at Pax8. "By helping Managed Intelligence Providers turn innovation into real business outcomes, the Alliance can strengthen the channel and give millions of SMBs a trusted path to results."

Closing AI's Last-Mile Gap

For many SMBs, AI adoption will depend on the technology providers they already know and trust. ITSPs, MSPs and other channel partners can identify practical use cases, then deploy and manage AI securely and responsibly. The Managed Intelligence Alliance is designed to support that last mile and make AI delivery repeatable at scale.

As Chair of the Managed Intelligence Alliance and a member of GTIA's Board of Directors, Rob Rae emphasized the opportunity for the channel to lead the next phase of AI adoption:

"The opportunity around AI is enormous because we know how powerful it can be for businesses of all sizes. But capability isn't the challenge anymore ? trust is," said Rae. "Businesses want to progress, but they need confidence that AI can be deployed securely, governed responsibly and tied to real outcomes. The Managed Intelligence Alliance gives the channel an opportunity to lead by creating the standards, best practices and shared expertise that help turn AI from a technology conversation into a business advantage."

The Managed Intelligence Alliance is open to organizations across the channel ecosystem that share its mission and meet membership requirements. Participating GTIA members are encouraged to contribute through member comment periods and research.

Details on participation, working groups and initial priorities are available at http://gtia.org/alliance.

About the Global Technology Industry Association

The Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) is the only vendor-neutral, 501(c)(6) nonprofit membership community connecting and representing the worldwide IT channel. We set our members up for success by providing benefits that include trusted resources and networking opportunities.

In addition, the association sets industry standards that enable companies to build sustainable, secure, and profitable businesses in an ever-changing technology landscape. With The ASCII Group, which has served North American MSPs, MSSPs and solution providers since 1984, now part of GTIA, the association's community continues to grow. Internationally, GTIA represents hundreds of thousands of professionals from nearly 4,000 ITSPs, vendors, distributors and other companies serving the IT channel.

About the Managed Intelligence Alliance

The Managed Intelligence Alliance is a vendor-neutral GTIA program focused on making Managed Intelligence delivery repeatable, governable and trusted at scale. It develops open specifications, capability standards, accreditation programs and research to support AI delivery through the technology ecosystem. Founding Party Members are CrowdStrike, Cynet, F1 Information Technologies, Lyra, Microsoft, New Charter, NinjaOne, Rev.io and Sourcepass.

Media contact:

Suzanne Collier

WhiteFox Marketing for GTIA

suzanne@whitefoxpr.com

Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland Enterprises Go Global Together: Bringing Enormous Opportunities to Global Talent in the UK

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:57:00 +0700

Over 200 job openings brought by 50+ leading employers from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland to global professionals in the UK.

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 October 2026 - The Hong Kong ? Global Talent & Career Showcase was organised by Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) on 17 and 18 October 2026 at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London.

The showcase was supported by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Development Office and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London. Over 200 quality job openings offered by more than 50 leading enterprises from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, with more than 4,500 visits recorded.

Multi-Sector Engagement

The showcase featured job vacancies across banking and finance, innovation and technology (I&T), engineering and construction, and professional services. Attendees engaged directly with HR representatives from renowned enterprises in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. The event also featured forums and workshops, where government representatives and business leaders shared insights on Hong Kong's development advantages, talent landscape and market trends, while experienced HR representatives offered practical job-seeking tips and career advice.

In his opening remarks, the Director of HKTE, Mr Felix Chan, said that the showcase enabled global talent to learn about career development in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland, and exchange and match jobs directly with enterprises. HKTE will continue to promote Hong Kong worldwide, and attract talent with skills required for the development of the country and Hong Kong in a targeted manner.

A representative of a participating enterprise opined that the showcase facilitated them to connect with global talent directly as well as identify suitable candidates with a global mindset and cross-cultural collaboration experience, thereby supporting business expansion.

Why Hong Kong

Hong Kong is strengthening its position as an I&T centre and an international hub for high-calibre talent. As a "super connector", Hong Kong is deeply integrated with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and connected to extensive international network, generating immense opportunities for global talent.

Looking Ahead

The recent London career showcase is one of over 100 outreach visits conducted by HKTE. In the coming year, HKTE will continue its promotional activities across the Chinese Mainland, Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America, partnering with Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland enterprises to go global together, and facilitate targeted matching between enterprises and global talent.

Hong Kong welcomes global talent. Interested talent can learn more about talent admission schemes in Hong Kong and upcoming events of HKTE at [www.hkengage.gov.hk].

About Hong Kong Talent Engage

HKTE, an office under the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government, promotes Hong Kong's opportunities and talent attraction initiatives worldwide, and provides comprehensive support to help incoming talent and their families settle in Hong Kong for long‑term development.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #HongKongTalentEngage

Madame Tussauds Singapore and MakeMyTrip Bring the Icons of India to Life This Diwali

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:53:00 +0700

Step into The World of Indian Cinema and celebrate the Festival of Lights alongside Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan and many more, in partnership with MakeMyTrip!

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 October 2026 - This Diwali, Madame Tussauds Singapore and MakeMyTrip invite visitors to celebrate the Festival of Lights with Icons of India, a limited period experience.

As partners, the two brands spotlight the enduring global appeal of Indian cinema, celebrating its glamour, energy and cultural influence while creating new ways for audiences to connect with their favourite stars.

Guests can get up close with the wax figures including Deepika Padukone, Varun Dhawan, Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh, along with a special lineup of activities. MakeMyTrip is offering travellers an exclusive Buy 1 Get 1 deal on tickets for bookings made between 21 October and 15 November 2026.

Wade Chang, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Singapore, said: "Diwali is an important celebration of Indian culture, bringing people together through the shared spirit of light, joy and togetherness. Through the Icons of Indiacampaign, we're excited to bring guests closer to the most iconic starsand create memorable experience. The partnership with MakeMyTrip is a wonderful opportunity toshare the magic of Indian cinema with even more audiences in Singapore."

Jasmeet Singh, Chief Business Officer - Holidays & Experiences, MakeMyTrip, said:"Travellers today want to do more than just visit a destination; they want experiences that make the trip memorable. Our association with Madame Tussauds Singapore brings a much-loved attraction closer to Indian travellers, bookable on MakeMyTrip as easily as a hotel or a flight. With many Indians travelling abroad over the festive season, Icons of India gives travellers heading to Singapore one more reason to plan their trip around Diwali."

Meet the Newest Star: Deepika Padukone

A highlight of the experience is the newly unveiled wax figure of Deepika Padukone, one of the most recognisable stars of contemporary Indian cinema. Dressed in a striking red floor-length gown with an elegant open-back design, the figure captures Deepika's signature glamour, with her long cascading hair and captivating gaze bringing her distinctive screen presence to life.

With a celebrated career spanning Indian and international cinema, Deepika has established herself as one of India's most recognisable global stars, having served on the Feature Film Jury at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival and represented Indian cinema on the global stage at the 2023 Oscars. Her newest wax figure now brings this celebrated icon to Madame Tussauds Singapore.

For more information, please visit www.madametussauds.com/singapore/

Madame Tussauds Singapore

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered ? and feared ? for over 250 years. With 22 attractions in the world's top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to infamous world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

About Merlin Entertainments

Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 60 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.

See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

About MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip is a travel technology platform that enables transactions across a range of travel needs, empowering customers with seamless and integrated experiences. It serves a broad and diverse customer base ranging from individuals to enterprises and small and medium sized businesses. Its key brands, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo and redBus, address distinct traveller categories, use cases and price points across the Indian travel ecosystem.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #MadameTussaudsSingapore #MakeMyTrip

BYD Energy Storage Accelerates Global BESS After-Sales Network Expansion

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:49:00 +0700

SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BYD Energy Storage has built a comprehensive after-sales service network in a multi‑tier framework: station O&M, project centers, regional centers and global headquarters.

BYD 9 global O&M centers, 24/7 support

BYD Energy Storage operates nine O&M centers globally, each spanning 2,500 square meters. Its after-sales service network covers China, Chile, South Africa, the UK, the US, Australia, Japan, Poland, and the Middle East. New service centers will open in South Africa and Bulgaria in 2027 to further expand its global service footprint.

The centers deliver core functions including spare parts storage and management, batteries repair and maintenance, regional spare parts allocation, batteries recycling, and training for locally hired engineers.

BYD Energy Storage's regional centers fully comply with local regulatory requirements, deliver structured workforce training and enable rapid on-site response.

The professional service team comprises over 200 field engineers and more than 100 R&D specialists. The company enforces standardized service SLAs: response within 24 hours, on-site arrival within 48 hours, and fault troubleshooting within 7 days.

The company's global service network has achieved widespread coverage. It forms a multi-point supply network that ensures rapid spare parts delivery worldwide. Furthermore, leveraging localized production lines, its O&M teams integrate regional resources to deliver local battery repair services, providing global customers with fast, convenient, and localized after-sales support.

"Our global service footprint is tailored to our fast‑growing BESS deployments. Trustworthy after‑sales support underpins the long‑term stable operation of energy storage assets," commented Mr. He Dehong, Head of Global After-sales Service at BYD Energy Storage.

Guided by its vision, empower global energy storage industry with digital and intelligent service, BYD Energy Storage's mature global O&M system strongly supports its expanding battery energy storage footprint. The company topped global BESS shipments at over 60 GWh in 2025, and has delivered more than 650 energy storage projects in total, supported by standardized, localized after-sales services for reliable asset operation.

BYD Energy Storage media contact: Xie Yuwen; xie.yuwen1@byd.com