KEARNY, NJ, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- 13 Mari, a maritime technology company focused on improving vessel efficiency through applied physics and engineering, has announced that its patent, "Method, System, and Apparatus for Reducing Fluid Drag" (U.S. Patent No. 11,946,497 B2), has been selected to receive the 2026 Edison Patent Award in the Environmental category. Presented by the Research & Development Council of New Jersey, the award recognizes patented innovations that address meaningful challenges through scientific research and technological development. The recognition highlights 13 Mari's ongoing work in developing practical solutions that support more efficient vessel operation while contributing to long-term environmental objectives.

The Edison Patent Awards celebrate inventions that demonstrate originality, practical value, and broader societal impact. Patents are evaluated on several factors, including the significance of the problem addressed, the novelty of the invention, its utility, and its potential commercial impact. Receiving recognition through this program places 13 Mari's patented technology among a group of innovations selected for their contribution to applied research and engineering.

The recognized patent introduces a method for reducing fluid drag by influencing the flow of water around a vessel through specially designed passive elements. Installed on a ship's hull, these components manage boundary layer behavior, helping reduce energy losses associated with turbulence while improving the efficiency of water flow. Because the system functions without additional power requirements or major structural modifications, it is designed as a practical solution that can be incorporated into existing vessels while limiting operational disruption. The same intellectual property also presents additional applications beyond maritime transportation, reflecting the broader engineering principles behind the invention.

This recognition arrives during an important stage of the company's intellectual property strategy. The awarded patent also serves as the foundation for a continuation-in-part filing currently progressing through international patent procedures across multiple jurisdictions. As 13 Mari continues expanding its intellectual property portfolio, the company views the patented technology as a central component supporting future research, commercialization, and collaboration opportunities.

Krassi Fotev, founder of 13 Mari, says, "Every stage of this work has been guided by the belief that careful observation of physical processes can lead to practical engineering improvements. Receiving recognition for this patent encourages us to continue refining ideas that can provide lasting value for vessel operators while contributing to more efficient transportation."

The company's research has consistently focused on improving vessel performance through relatively simple physical principles. Instead of relying on extensive modifications to ships, 13 Mari has concentrated on understanding how water interacts with a hull and identifying opportunities to improve that interaction through carefully engineered passive components. This direction reflects the company's broader mission of developing technologies that combine operational practicality with measurable efficiency improvements.

13 Mari's technology is based on the principle that improving vessel efficiency can create value for both environmental goals and fleet operations. By reducing the resistance experienced as a ship moves through water, its solution is designed to help vessels use energy more efficiently. The company's passive elements are developed to work alongside existing vessel designs and propulsion systems, allowing operators to explore efficiency improvements without requiring fundamental changes to their fleets.

"The most sustainable solutions are those that create practical value for the people using them. When a technology helps vessels operate more efficiently and provides economic benefits, it creates a stronger pathway for adoption across the maritime sector," Fotev explains.

As part of its future plans, 13 Mari aims to further develop computational methods that can support vessel optimization and expand the application of its technology. The company continues exploring opportunities to collaborate with organizations that share an interest in advancing maritime efficiency through engineering innovation.

"The future of transportation depends on finding solutions that connect scientific understanding with real-world applications," Fotev remarks. "Our goal is to continue learning from the physics of fluid movement and develop technologies that help vessels operate more efficiently while creating meaningful benefits for owners and operators."

About 13 Mari

13 Mari is a maritime technology company developing innovative passive hull technology designed to improve vessel efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions across the global shipping industry. Its proprietary technology uses specially engineered composite elements attached to a vessel's hull to reduce hydrodynamic drag, improving fuel efficiency without requiring external power, moving parts, or structural modifications. Designed for both existing vessels and newbuilds, the solution offers shipowners and operators a practical way to reduce operating costs while supporting maritime decarbonisation efforts. The company reports potential fuel savings of 3–7%, with its technology validated through accredited tow-tank testing and progressing into commercial vessel deployments. For more information, visit 13mari.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this release regarding anticipated fuel savings, commercial adoption, ongoing patent prosecution, and operational performance reflect current projections and testing results. Actual performance may vary depending on vessel specifications, operational conditions, and hull configuration. 13 Mari assumes no obligation to update these statements as developments unfold.

Media Contact

Krassi Fotev
media@13mari.com

SAN CARLOS, CA, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Switch Bioworks, a deep-tech company developing genetic control systems for the next era of biomanufacturing, starting with nitrogen biofertilizer, led a commentary published today in Nature Biotechnology that charts a path to accelerate the development and commercialization of biological nitrogen fertilizers. The commentary comes at a pivotal moment, as mounting pressures on food security, climate, and global supply chains converge with breakthroughs in genetic engineering and AI, creating new opportunities to transform nitrogen fertilizer production — an essential foundation of the modern food system.

Titled "The next frontier in nitrogen fixation," the commentary brings together four Switch Bioworks scientists and researchers from leading international institutions: the University of Oxford, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Federal University of Paraná, and the John Innes Centre.

Scientists have long pursued nitrogen-fixing bacteria as an alternative to conventional fertilizer. The potential impact is substantial: cereal crops, including corn, wheat and rice, supply roughly half of humanity’s dietary calories and depend on nitrogen fertilizer to maintain high yields. Conventional fertilizer production relies heavily on fossil fuels, while application contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution. Unlocking the potential of biological nitrogen fixation at commercially meaningful performance could fundamentally change how the world feeds itself.

The commentary identifies a fundamental biological trade-off at the center of this challenge. Naturally occurring nitrogen-fixing bacteria generally retain the nitrogen they produce for their own growth. Genetic engineering can enable bacteria to release ammonia that plants can use, but doing so can compromise their ability to grow, establish and compete with other microorganisms on plant roots. These challenges, compounded by inconsistent root colonization across soil types, limited access to energy from plant root exudates, and gaps in scientific validation, have hindered commercial progress and investor confidence in the field.

The authors identify four priorities for unlocking commercially viable biological nitrogen fixation: designing diverse microbial communities that can establish across varying soil conditions; engineering genetic systems that separate microbial growth from nitrogen production; modifying plant traits to better support nitrogen-fixing bacteria; and establishing rigorous testing standards to demonstrate nitrogen delivery to crops under real-world conditions.

Growth-production programming, a central theme of the commentary, is also at the heart of Switch Bioworks' technology and its recently announced strategic collaboration with Bayer Crop Science. The approach uses genetic switches that allow engineered microbes to first establish and multiply on plant roots before activating nitrogen production. Complementing this approach, Switch is advancing data-driven and machine learning methods to design diverse microbial consortia, with each member engineered using growth-production programming to improve performance across varying field conditions.

"Nature figured out how to fix nitrogen billions of years ago. Our challenge is engineering biology to do it reliably, at scale, and at a cost that competes with industrial production. This commentary lays out what it will take. With AI accelerating biological discovery and engineering, we're entering a new era where programmable living systems can manufacture what we need, where we need it — without massive industrial infrastructure. Nitrogen fertilizer is just the beginning," said Dr. Tim Schnabel, founder and CEO of Switch Bioworks and senior author of the commentary.

Even partial replacement of conventional fertilizer could have considerable environmental benefits. The authors estimate that just 10% to 20% replacement could eliminate tens of millions of metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions from fertilizer manufacturing annually while reducing nitrogen losses from agricultural fields and improving farmers' bottom lines.

“To make real progress, we need to break the nitrogen fixation challenge into solvable scientific problems — and prove that our solutions work. Improved plant growth alone doesn't demonstrate that bacteria have transferred fixed nitrogen to crops," said Dr. Timothy Haskett, first author of the commentary and principal scientist at Switch Bioworks. "We need methodical studies that confirm nitrogen transfer, followed by field trials that measure root colonization and plant nitrogen status using appropriate controls."

“We have been trying to make biological nitrogen fixation work for cereals for decades. I think what we need now is a clear understanding of what success should look like and how to prove it. This framework can help researchers and developers work toward the same goals, with clear priorities and evidence to support progress,” said Dr. Emanuel Maltempi de Souza, professor at the Federal University of Paraná in Brazil and a co-author of the commentary.

Turning the roadmap outlined in the commentary into commercial products requires complex genetic engineering, rigorous field testing, and regulatory review, paving the way for a new category of engineered microbial biofertilizers. Switch Bioworks is helping lead regulatory progress in this emerging category, having secured first-in-class authorizations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Agency and approvals from Brazil’s National Technical Biosafety Commission (CTNBio).

The commentary, "The next frontier in nitrogen fixation," is available in Nature Biotechnology.

About Switch Bioworks

Switch Bioworks is the deep-tech company powering the next industrial revolution. Its first foothold is the more than $100 billion nitrogen fertilizer market that underpins the world's food system, where the company has developed a breakthrough programmable biology platform that enables engineered microbes to replace fossil fuel-derived fertilizer at a fraction of today's cost. Headquartered in San Carlos, California, Switch was founded out of Stanford University in 2022 and is backed by leading investors and a world-class team. The same core technology that turns microbes into programmable fertilizer factories in nature extends across agriculture, energy, industrial biotechnology, and the microbiomes that shape human health — a platform poised to redefine humanity's relationship with manufacturing and nature. Learn more at switchbioworks.com.

Media Contact

Sarah McAllister
Mahoney Communications Group
sarah@mahoneycommunications.com

CANTON, MI, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- eTutorWorld, an online education service for K-12 students that provides live online tutoring and test prep solutions, announced today that it has been voted No. 1 for "Best Online Tutoring" in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice™ Awards. eTutorWorld ranked No. 1 in a field of 10, outranking other companies that included Tutor.com, Varsity Tutors, Sylvan Learning, Wyzant, and Khan Academy.

Founded in 2008, eTutorWorld provides one-to-one K-12 online tutoring in math, science, coding, AI, English, Spanish, and social studies. It also offers test prep tutoring for the SAT, ACT, AP, STAAR, SSAT, ISEE, PSAT, CogAT, and i-Ready. With more than 300,000 tutoring sessions delivered, the company serves families in the U.S., Canada, UAE, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and beyond. Its mission is to make high-quality one-to-one tutoring accessible to all.

When a child gets stuck on a concept, having someone who knows them and can explain it in a way that makes sense can make all the difference. At eTutorWorld, each student works with a dedicated, expert tutor in live, one-to-one Zoom sessions. Students can ask questions as they come up, take their time working through difficult problems, and get help where they need it. AI-assisted tools offer additional practice between sessions, and homeschooling families can also work with tutors to support their child’s curriculum.

Children don’t all learn at the same pace or in the same way. eTutorWorld’s Learning by Design™ approach takes these differences into account, putting each student’s individual learning needs at the center of instruction. The process starts with diagnostic assessments to identify each student’s strengths, learning gaps, and areas that need attention. Tutors then use these insights to create personalized learning plans and adapt lessons as the student progresses. Formative and summative assessments help track understanding along the way, while homework after each session gives students an opportunity to practice and apply what they’ve learned. Parents receive regular progress reports to see how their child is doing and where they may need further support.

Learning with eTutorWorld doesn’t end when a tutoring session is over. Students can revisit session recordings for up to one month and access eTutorWorld’s repository of more than 20,000 practice questions to review concepts and get extra practice. Together, these resources give students the opportunity to revisit their tutor’s explanations and put their understanding to the test on their own time.

Finding the right tutoring support should fit into a family’s routine and budget. eTutorWorld offers affordable one-to-one tutoring with flexible scheduling to work around students’ school and other commitments, along with a free trial lesson so parents can experience the service before making a commitment. Families also have the reassurance of a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 90-day Grade Improvement Guarantee. eTutorWorld’s 24/7 customer support and 4.8 out of 5 RaveCapture rating further reflect its focus on the family experience.

As AI becomes more widely used in education, educators and parents are increasingly concerned about its impact on independent learning. A June 2026 NPR/Ipsos poll found that 39% of surveyed K-12 teachers now require more assignments to be completed in class because of AI. eTutorWorld believes AI is most effective when it complements, rather than replaces, a student's own thinking and guidance from an experienced tutor. Its AI-assisted tools provide additional opportunities to practice concepts and reinforce understanding alongside one-on-one instruction. The company also offers dedicated AI programs for middle and high school students, helping them understand the technology and explore its applications.

“It means a great deal to us to be recognized by the families we’re here to serve,” said Mukul Agrawal, CEO of eTutorWorld. “Every student comes to us with a different starting point, a different challenge, and a different goal. Our job is to meet them where they are and help them move forward. Having Newsweek readers recognize that work is something our entire team can be proud of.”

The Newsweek Readers’ Choice Awards recognize standout businesses, brands, and experiences across a wide range of consumer categories. Nominees are independently selected by Newsweek’s editorial team and industry panelists, with final rankings determined by public voting. Readers vote for the companies and organizations they believe deliver exceptional quality, value, and customer experience.

The 2026 program highlights leading companies across numerous industries, including Online Tutoring, where eTutorWorld was ranked No. 1.

“In a crowded marketplace, the opinions of consumers are a powerful measure of what stands out,” said Newsweek Editor-in-Chief Jennifer H. Cunningham. “Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards give our readers a voice in recognizing the brands, products, and experiences they value most. We’re proud to celebrate this year’s winners.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes eTutorWorld one of the best online tutoring companies for K-12 students?

eTutorWorld's Learning by Design™ methodology helps tutors identify learning gaps, create individualized plans, and adapt instruction as students progress. Each student works with a dedicated tutor for K-12 subjects, test preparation, or homeschooling.

2. What is the Learning by Design™ methodology, and how does it help students improve academically?

eTutorWorld's Learning by Design™ methodology follows four stages: Diagnose, Design, Deliver, and Refine. Tutors begin by assessing a student's understanding and identifying learning gaps (Diagnose). They then create an individualized learning plan based on the student's needs and academic goals (Design). Through one-on-one tutoring, tutors deliver targeted instruction to help students strengthen skills and master concepts (Deliver). Finally, they monitor progress and adjust the learning plan as needed (Refine). This structured approach helps students receive focused support while building understanding and confidence over time.

3. Does eTutorWorld offer a 90-Day Grade Improvement Guarantee?

Yes. eTutorWorld offers a 90-Day Grade Improvement Guarantee designed to support students in making measurable academic progress. Eligible students must attend at least two tutoring sessions per week for 12 weeks, subject to the program's terms and conditions. Through personalized instruction, targeted practice, and consistent progress monitoring, eTutorWorld aims to help students strengthen their understanding and improve their academic performance.

4. What happens if my child doesn't show academic improvement after 90 days?

If an eligible student shows no grade improvement after 90 days despite meeting the program's criteria, eTutorWorld provides 20 additional free tutoring sessions, subject to the guarantee's terms and conditions.

5. How does eTutorWorld ensure its tutors are qualified to teach K-12 students?

eTutorWorld works with experienced educators who hold undergraduate degrees, many of whom hold advanced degrees. Tutors undergo selection and training to assess subject knowledge and teaching ability. Ongoing monitoring helps maintain a consistent learning experience.

6. Does eTutorWorld offer online tutoring for homeschooled students?

Yes. eTutorWorld provides one-on-one tutoring for homeschool students in kindergarten through grade 12. Tutors complement homeschool curricula, reinforce core concepts, provide subject instruction, and support standardized test preparation. Lesson plans align with each family's approach and goals.

7. Does eTutorWorld provide online tutoring for gifted and talented students?

Yes. eTutorWorld offers one-on-one instruction for gifted students seeking advanced learning or additional challenges. Tutors adapt lessons to students' pace and abilities, supporting advanced topics and critical thinking. eTutorWorld also prepares students for assessments such as the CogAT and ISEE.

8. Can students receive one-on-one tutoring in advanced subjects such as AP Calculus, AP Physics, and AP Chemistry?

Yes. eTutorWorld tutors AP Calculus, AP Physics, AP Chemistry, AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, and other AP courses. Tutors help students understand complex concepts, strengthen problem-solving skills, review coursework, and prepare for exams with tailored instruction.

About eTutorWorld

Founded in 2008 and based in Canton, Michigan, eTutorWorld provides personalized online tutoring and test preparation for K-12 students. Its proprietary Learning by Design™ methodology combines diagnostic assessments, individualized learning plans, and progress tracking, supported by its digital classroom and AI-assisted tools, to help tutors tailor instruction to each student's strengths, learning gaps, and academic goals. Programs cover math, science, coding, AI, English, Spanish, social studies, and standardized test preparation for ACT, AP, SAT, and other exams. eTutorWorld offers flexible scheduling, a free trial with no purchase obligation, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, helping families get started with confidence. For more information, visit etutorworld.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 newsweek.com.

Media Contact

Mukul Agrawal
President and CEO, eTutorWorld Corporation
mukul@etutorworld.com
+1 628-272-0788

PAPHOS, Cyprus, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Chase Buchanan Private Wealth Management, international specialists in expat financial planning, have reviewed the government's impact estimates of significant reforms to how unused pension benefits will be incorporated into Inheritance Tax (IHT) calculations in the UK from April 6, 2027.

While HMRC’s figures consider the effects on the population as a whole, they do not specifically evaluate the impacts on overseas British expats who retain UK pensions, or how the complexities of contrasting tax regimes and potential double tax treaties will influence retirement and succession planning.

Why UK Inheritance Tax Changes Won’t Impact Only British Tax Residents

From the next tax year, most unused pension funds and death benefits will be included in an individual’s estate when IHT is assessed, meaning pension assets may be taxable and more estates will exceed the relevant thresholds. 

As Lee Eldridge, Group CEO and Head of Investment Advisory, explains, "The projected impacts produced by the Exchequer are useful, but there has been no evaluation of the effects on the global expat community, which is something we know is highly relevant to many of the clients we support around the world."

"This is especially important following the previous reforms in 2025, which mean that HMRC might retain taxing rights over a worldwide estate if, for example, an expat was a UK tax resident for 10 of the last 20 years, even if they subsequently become a tax resident of another country."

The government’s impact estimates for the 2027/28 tax period indicate that:

• 213,000 estates are thought to contain inheritable pension wealth
• 10,500 estates are expected to incur an IHT liability that would not previously have arisen
• 38,500 estates are forecast to be liable to pay more IHT than before the reform
• The approximate average additional IHT for those estates paying more tax is estimated at £34,000

While a parliamentary committee has noted that this may potentially change individuals’ financial plans in terms of pension withdrawals and estate planning, further impacts may apply to expats who might have a UK pension, live overseas as a tax resident, and also have beneficiaries who live in different countries.

These considerations should be taken in the context of the further changes to UK taxation and pensions explored in Chase Buchanan’s review of the Autumn Budget’s impact on British expats living overseas.

The Potential Scale of UK Pension Inheritance Tax Changes for Overseas Expats

Eldridge says, "It’s important to emphasise the significance of the forthcoming reforms for expats making retirement plans believing their pension wealth will not be subject to UK IHT, or who have long-standing succession plans that they believe remain in the interests of themselves and their loved ones."

"For example, an expat with a significant amount of unused UK-based pension wealth, property or assets based in the UK, and who expects to leave a sizable estate to their beneficiaries, may have much higher exposure than an expat with a modest UK pension who holds the majority of their assets outside the UK."

"However, this also doesn’t paint the full picture, because in situations where British citizens have become overseas tax residents, their estate, including unused UK pension wealth, could theoretically also be subject to inheritance tax regimes in the country where they live."

The UK has inheritance double tax conventions with many countries, which can determine which country has taxing rights over unused pension wealth, or rules that apply tax relief if the same assets are taxed twice. Provisions do, though, vary between agreements, and there are scenarios where a UK pension could be classified, for example, as an investment asset depending on the pension structure and the tax rules in the relevant jurisdiction.

How Expats Living Overseas Can Prepare for Pension Inheritance Tax Reforms

Eldridge clarifies that, "Moving overseas doesn’t mean UK IHT is no longer a consideration, and when unused pension wealth and death benefits fall under the scope of this tax, there is certainly the potential for beneficiaries to find that estates are subject to complex cross-border tax treatments." 

"Reviewing pension and estate arrangements is advisable for anybody concerned about what these changes might mean for their wealth, their estate and their tax exposure, ideally before reforms take effect from next April."

About Chase Buchanan Private Wealth Management

Chase Buchanan Private Wealth Management is a highly regulated wealth management company that specialises in providing global finance solutions for those with a global lifestyle. We are global financial advisers, supporting expatriates around the world from our regulated European headquarters, and local offices across Belgium, Canada, Canary Islands, Cyprus, France, Malta, Portugal, Spain, the UK and the USA. Chase Buchanan Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission with CIF Licence 287/15 and offers its services in the EU on a cross-border basis as per the provisions of MiFID. Chase Buchanan Insurance Services, Agents & Advisors is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Insurance Companies Control Service with License No 6883 and offers services in the EU on a cross-border basis as per the provisions of the Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD). Investing in financial instruments involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. The value of investments may go up as well as down and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. You may lose part or all of your invested capital. For more information, visit chasebuchanan.com.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute individual financial, legal, or tax advice. Tax treatment, including UK Inheritance Tax and cross-border succession rules, depends on individual circumstances and local legislation, both of which may be subject to change. Readers should not rely solely on this information and should seek professional, qualified advice tailored to their specific cross-border tax residency and estate situation before taking any action.

Media Contact

info@chasebuchanan.com

MANAMA, Bahrain, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Al Salam Bank (Bahrain Bourse: SALAM; Dubai Financial Market: SALAM_BAH) announced record profitability for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2026, built on sustainable earnings, a strong liquidity position, and a consistently growing capital base.

Net profit attributable to owners of the bank increased 20.4% to $185.8 million for the first nine months of 2026, from $154.3 million for the same period of 2025. Reflecting the group's consistent focus on the quality of its earnings, diversified revenue streams from core banking activities and regional operations continued to drive growth in net finance income, net fees and commissions, and share of profit from associates. Income from sukuk also increased by 19.1% to $232.3 million, and net fee and commission income grew 16.6% to $63.2 million, further supporting net profit growth.

The nine-month results extend a consistent upward trajectory in the group's profitability, with nine-month net profit increasing in each of the past six years. Delivered through shifting monetary policy cycles and regional market conditions, the record performance underscores the resilience of the group's earnings base and the scalability of its business model. Net profit attributable to owners of the bank for the first nine months has increased more than eightfold from $21.4 million in the same period of 2020, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 43.4%. Higher earnings translated into stronger returns for shareholders, with return on average equity (ROAE) rising to a record 17.2% from 16.4% in the first nine months of 2025, and return on average assets improving to 1.3% from 1.1%. Over a longer horizon, ROAE has increased more than fourfold from 3.5% in 2020, reflecting the transformation of the Group's scale, efficiency, and sustainable earnings capacity over that period.

Revenue diversification across the group advanced during the period through ASB Capital, the group's investment and asset management platform. ASB Capital broadened its product offering with the launch of the ASB Liquidity Fund, the ASB Principal Multi-Asset Fund, and the ASB StepStone Private Financing Fund. It also strengthened its debt capital markets franchise, participating in seven transactions across Saudi Arabia and Kuwait with an aggregate issuance size of $6.3 billion.

Total assets closed the quarter at $21.47 billion, reflecting the group's continued focus on optimizing balance sheet allocation and asset quality. Financing assets stood at $10.65 billion, while customer deposits increased to $14.58 billion, backed by a stable and diversified funding base.

The group's capital base continued to grow, while liquidity remained strong. Equity attributable to owners of the bank increased 5.9% to $1.30 billion as of Sept. 30, 2026, from $1.23 billion at year-end 2025. Reflecting consistent internal capital generation, equity attributable to owners of the bank has expanded 74.4% from $744.7 million in 2020. The consolidated capital adequacy ratio closed the quarter at 24.9%, providing ample capacity to support the group's future growth initiatives. The average three-month liquidity coverage ratio stood at 269.3% and the net stable funding ratio stood at 124.1% as of Sept. 30, 2026, both well above the regulatory minimum.

Commenting on the results, His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Mustahail Al Mashani, Chairman of Al Salam Bank, said: "Al Salam Bank's record performance over the first nine months of 2026 reinforces its standing as a leading regional financial group, a position earned through results rather than aspiration. By leveraging its established strengths and deploying capital where it creates the most value, the group has improved the quality of its earnings and strengthened its strategic direction. As the year draws to a close, we remain committed to maintaining our financial strength and to delivering sustainable returns for our shareholders."

Rafik Nayed, group CEO of Al Salam Bank, added: "Al Salam Bank has made steady progress amid shifting regional conditions. Our priorities remain to optimize the balance sheet and broaden our revenue drivers across banking, asset management, takaful, and our regional exposures. We remain focused on execution and efficient capital allocation as we continue to develop the group's diversified operating model."

The full set of condensed consolidated interim financial information for the nine-month period ended Sept. 30, 2026, reviewed by external auditor KPMG, is available on the Bahrain Bourse and Dubai Financial Market websites.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release constitute forward-looking statements regarding Al Salam Bank's future business prospects, financial performance, strategic growth, balance sheet optimization, and operating model development. Words such as "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "remains committed," "priorities," and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect management's expectations, assumptions, and projections as of the date hereof and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and economic changes — including market conditions, regional regulatory shifts, interest rate fluctuations, and monetary policies — that could cause actual operational and financial results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. The bank undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events, new information, or future developments, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Important Disclosures

This document is published solely for informational purposes and does not constitute, form part of, or contain an offer, solicitation, invitation, or recommendation to buy, sell, subscribe to, or underwrite any securities, investment funds, sukuk, or other financial and banking instruments in any jurisdiction. It does not provide, nor should it be construed as, financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Prospective investors should consult independent professional advisers and review relevant offering documentation before making any investment decision regarding securities or funds referenced herein, including products managed by ASB Capital.

Media Contact

Ema Linaker
Brand Links
ema@brandlinksme.com

BEVERLY HILLS, CA, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- The Agency is proud to announce the launch of its 2027 Red Paper, an expert-informed guide to the wealth dynamics, buyer mindsets, and design innovations shaping the luxury real estate market around the world. Drawing on the knowledge of its global network of agents and industry leaders, the report combines real-time, ground-level observation with forward-looking analysis to help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate a complex, ever-changing luxury market with confidence.

“The global luxury real estate market is moving in more than one direction at once, and this year’s Red Paper captures that in a way no other resource does,” said Mauricio Umansky, CEO and founder of The Agency. “From AI-driven wealth fueling competition in Silicon Valley to a renewed appreciation for historic properties, buyer priorities are changing quickly. This report explores the trends shaping luxury real estate today and gives our clients and agents valuable insight into what lies ahead in 2027."

Highlights from the 2027 Red Paper include:

• The “K-Shaped” Housing Reality and the Deepening Wealth Divide: Buoyed by stock market gains, sales of million-dollar-plus homes are surging while more affordable segments remain flat. The report explains how all-cash buyers, largely insulated from mortgage rates, are reallocating windfalls into real estate as a safe haven, and why the market is bifurcating between entry-level luxury and the ultra-luxury tier.
• AI Capital and the Super Luxury Tier: In tech-wealth epicenters like San Francisco and Silicon Valley, AI hiring, liquid equity, and anticipated IPOs are fueling hyper-competition and well-over-ask sales.
• The Rise of “Landmaxxing” and Extreme Privacy: Affluent buyers are acquiring adjacent lots, neighboring properties, and vast parcels to protect views, maximize privacy, and build multigenerational compounds.
• Stewardship Over Ownership: Buyers increasingly see themselves as temporary stewards of history rather than simply owners. The report explores homes with pedigree sold as works of art, with tips on how to buy and care for a historically significant property.
• Longevity as Ultra-Luxury Status Symbol: Developers are building longevity and holistic wellness into project blueprints. The report examines the new development projects and amenities driving this shift.
• Amenity Watch: Sculleries, double kitchens, and hidden tech are now standard in new builds and increasingly added to existing homes. For collectors, the report tracks what ultra-high-net-worth buyers are acquiring and displaying across yachts, cars, and art, from asset preservation to experiential design.
• Americans Buying Abroad: What began with digital nomads has grown into a broader movement across key international markets in the Caribbean, Mexico, Panama, and more.
• Purpose-Built Luxury: Innovation in manufacturing is reshaping how design-build studios approach today’s homesites, opening access to even the hardest-to-reach destinations.
• What to Expect for 2027: Agents across a wide range of markets share their market bright spots for the year ahead, and what it means for buyers and sellers around the world.

“The Red Paper has always been about staying ahead of the market, and this edition reflects the full spectrum of what our agents are seeing on the ground,” said Rainy Hake Austin, president of The Agency. “It gives our agents the intelligence they need to guide their clients with confidence through 2027 and beyond.”

The Agency has grown to over 190 offices across 18 countries, and counting. Poised for further expansion with like-minded partners in strategic markets, The Agency is noted by the Financial Times as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies, has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the country, and is consistently recognized as a Top Luxury Brokerage by Inman.

The Agency’s CEO and founder, Mauricio Umansky, ranked No. 30 on the Swanepoel Power 200’s list of most powerful and influential people in real estate. The Agency’s President, Rainy Hake Austin, was also named on the Swanepoel Power 200 Watchlist in 2025, recognizing 50 up-and-coming leaders shaping the future of residential real estate. The Agency has a renowned brand that is featured on international television shows including “Buying Beverly Hills,” which aired on Netflix for two seasons.

Read the Red Paper report.

About The Agency

The Agency is a global, luxury real estate brokerage representing clients across residential, new development, resort, and vacation rental markets worldwide. Since its founding in 2011 by Mauricio Umansky, The Agency has closed more than $104 billion in real estate transactions and grown to more than 190 offices across 18 countries. Consistently ranked among the top brokerages in the industry, The Agency is recognized as one of the fastest-growing boutique luxury real estate brands in the world. Redefining the traditional brokerage model, The Agency fosters a culture of true collaboration, where every client and listing is represented in a shared environment of partnership. Clients and agents alike benefit from the power of a global network and access to a full suite of in-house services, including creative, public relations, relocation, development, core services, and industry-leading technology. For more information, visit theagencyre.com.

Media Contact

Andrea Delgado
The Agency
andrea.delgado@theagencyre.com

ATLANTA, GA, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Former U.S. Congressman Jack Kingston and the American Kratom Association (AKA) will hold a press conference at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta on Thursday, November 12, on the federal government's new kratom policy and what it means for Georgia. In October 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Department of Health and Human Services drew a clear, science-based line between natural kratom leaf and synthetic, concentrated products sold under the kratom name: the synthetics were scheduled, and natural kratom was not. Details are at americankratompolicy.org.

That clarity arrives as Georgia heads into a 2027 session where a kratom ban bill is expected, and as the state's outgoing Attorney General has called for removing all kratom products — a position at odds with the federal record. Congressman Kingston will discuss how Georgia can follow the federal lead by regulating natural kratom and enforcing against synthetics. Georgia kratom consumers will speak to their own experience and will be available to media for interviews following the program.

AKA will also directly address Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr's call for the voluntary removal of all kratom products and what that would mean for Georgia's botanical kratom consumers, who advocate for access to safely formulated, accurately labeled, and age-restricted kratom products.

Press Conference Details

• What: Press conference addressing the October 2026 DOJ, DEA, and HHS regulatory actions, their implications for Georgia policy, and why proposed state-level bans misalign with federal scientific findings.
• Who: Jack Kingston, Former U.S. Congressman; Mac Haddow, Senior Fellow on Public Policy, American Kratom Association; Georgia Natural Kratom Consumers & Advocates
• When: Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time
• Where: Hyatt Regency Atlanta (Kennesaw Meeting Room), 265 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Livestream: Broadcast live via YouTube at youtube.com/@americankratomassociation. Media unable to attend in person may submit advance questions to press@americankratom.org.
• Media Availability: Congressman Kingston, AKA leadership, and Georgia advocates will be available for one-on-one interviews immediately following the formal remarks.

Background: Natural Kratom Is Not "Synthetic Kratom"

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a Southeast Asian tree whose leaves have been consumed for centuries and are under active NIH-funded study. In recent years, bad actors have synthesized novel opioid compounds — chemically manipulated 7-OH, MGM-15 and MGM-16 — and sold them under the kratom name. These products do not share natural kratom's alkaloid profile, pharmacology, or safety history, and federal regulators have now formally recognized that distinction. AKA supports age restrictions, accurate labeling, contaminant testing, good manufacturing practices, and strong enforcement against synthetic and adulterated products falsely marketed as kratom — and opposes blanket bans that push consumers to an unregulated market. Learn more at americankratompolicy.org.

About American Kratom Association (AKA)

The American Kratom Association is a consumer advocacy organization dedicated to protecting access to safely manufactured, properly labeled natural kratom products. The AKA advocates for science-based regulation, enforceable manufacturing standards, independent product testing, accurate labeling, and decisive action against adulterated, chemically manipulated, and dangerously formulated opioid products. For more information, visit americankratom.org.

Important Disclosures

The American Kratom Association (AKA) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit advocacy organization. This press release is issued for informational and public policy purposes only. The information contained herein reflects policy analysis regarding federal administrative actions and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or medical advice. Statements regarding natural kratom leaf products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers should consult qualified healthcare professionals regarding personal medical decisions.

Media Contact

Mac Haddow
Senior Fellow on Public Policy
press@americankratom.org
+1 571-294-5978

NEW YORK, NY, November 10, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Forget traditional airline merch. Lufthansa is turning the unwritten rules of flying into fashion with the U.S. launch of its limited-edition Travel Etiquette Collection.

Who gets the middle seat armrests? Why can't everyone just exit the plane row by row? And don't we all text our moms when the plane lands? Inspired by the shared experiences, unspoken rules, and little courtesies that make every journey more enjoyable, the collection gives travelers a playful way to wear their opinions on the dos and don'ts of flying.

Everyone has an opinion on the unwritten rules of flying, but most travelers can agree on one thing: a little courtesy goes a long way. According to a recent Ideally survey of U.S. airline passengers, 70% say small acts of consideration can make a big difference in the travel experience. Near the top of the list is checking with the passenger behind you before reclining, which 45% named as one of the most important unspoken rules in the air.

Rather than settle the debate, Lufthansa is inviting travelers to wear their opinions. The collection transforms familiar in-flight disagreements into statement-making apparel and accessories, featuring tongue-in-cheek slogans like “Middle Seat Gets the Armrests,” “Recline Responsibly,” and “It's Ok Not to Clap When the Plane Lands.”

Lufthansa, in partnership with creative agency of record, Serviceplan Group, is using fashion as a way for travelers to express their preferences and opinions about the shared experience of flying.

“Everyone has an opinion about airplane etiquette, and almost nobody agrees on the rules,” said Andreas Gassler, Head of Marketing, Lufthansa Group Americas. “We wanted to have a little fun with those universal experiences and give travelers a way to express themselves. It's airline merch that doesn't feel like airline merch, and that's exactly the point.”

“We wanted to tap into the conversations travelers are already having and bring a little humor to the unwritten rules of flying. The result is a collection that feels fun, relatable, and distinctly Lufthansa,” said Till Diestel, Chief Creative Officer, Serviceplan Germany.

Beginning November 10, Lufthansa will bring the Travel Etiquette Collection to U.S. travelers through a series of exclusive “Secret Drops.” Fans can visit Lufthansa's Travel Etiquette Secret Drop page to discover when and where limited-edition pieces will become available. As new drop locations are revealed, visitors can return to the page for the latest details and instructions on how to claim a downloadable ticket to redeem their exclusive merchandise in person. With extremely limited quantities available, each drop offers travelers a chance to get their hands on a piece of the collection while supplies last.

The U.S. launch will also be supported by a creator seeding initiative, bringing the collection's playful take on flying etiquette to life through personalities whose individual styles and perspectives reflect the spirit of the campaign.

About Lufthansa Group

The Lufthansa Group is an aviation group with operations worldwide. With 100,000+ employees from 164 nations, it carried more than 135 million passengers and generated revenue of €39.6 billion in 2025. Its largest business segment is Passenger Airlines. Other key segments include Logistics and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). Other companies and Group functions, such as IT companies and Lufthansa Aviation Training, complement these segments. All airlines and business segments play leading roles in their respective markets. For more information, visit lufthansagroup.com.

About Serviceplan Group

Serviceplan Group is Europe's largest independent, partner-led agency group. Founded in Munich in 1970, the Group pioneered the “House of Communication” model, integrating creative and content, media and data, and experience and technology under one roof. With more than 6,500 employees across 43 locations in 24 countries, Serviceplan Group brings together specialized expertise across its three agency brands: Serviceplan, Mediaplus, and Plan.Net. The Group is internationally recognized for its creative excellence, including being named Independent Network of the Year at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. For more information, visit house-of-communication.com.

Media Contact

Emma Swanson
PR Lead, Serviceplan Americas
emma.swanson@pereiraodell.com

BOSTON, MA, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- For small business owners, bringing in revenue and having cash available are two different things. A roofing contractor may need to pay a crew before a client settles an invoice. A restaurant must cover daily expenses even during a slow week. A service dog trainer can face an unexpected veterinary bill regardless of the season. These timing gaps are common. According to the Federal Reserve's 2026 Report on Employer Firms, 56% of surveyed small employer firms that sought financing did so to cover operating expenses. For businesses managing unpredictable cash flow, access to working capital can make a practical difference.

When Business Is Moving But Cash Flow Isn't

Even established companies can struggle to align incoming payments with outgoing expenses. Contractors purchase materials before starting projects, restaurants manage ongoing staffing and inventory costs, and service providers may wait weeks for invoices to clear.

Traditional financing can present additional obstacles. Credit score requirements, collateral conditions, and application processes vary by provider, potentially limiting options for businesses with sufficient revenue but less-than-perfect personal credit.

Boston-based Loot approaches small business financing by looking at how a company actually operates. Rather than imposing a minimum FICO score, it evaluates business cash flow and banking activity to determine eligibility for a revolving line of credit.

A Credit Line Built Around How Businesses Operate

Unlike a one-time financing arrangement, a revolving line of credit allows approved businesses to draw funds when needed, repay them under agreed terms, and regain access to available credit as their balance decreases.

Business owners can apply online through GetLoot, the small business funding platform by connecting a U.S. business bank account. Applications typically take around five minutes, and funding may be available as soon as the same business day, subject to approval, transfer options, and banking conditions.

Borrower control remains central after funding. Customers can manage draws and account activity through a self-service platform, including requesting reduced payments or payment skips when circumstances change, subject to applicable terms.

Early repayment also carries an incentive. Eligible customers who pay off a draw ahead of schedule can save up to 50% of the remaining fees on that outstanding balance.

Loot does not position itself as the lowest-cost financing provider. Instead, its approach emphasizes clear repayment terms, account flexibility, and the ability to review applicable financing costs before accepting a draw.

Three Businesses, Three Different Cash Flow Challenges

The impact of working capital challenges becomes clearer through the experiences of three Loot customers. Although they operate in different industries, each has faced situations where expenses and available cash did not align.

Bonafide Roofing: Keeping Projects Moving

Christian founded Bonafide Roofing in Portland, Oregon, after moving from Mexico and leaving a career in music. Building the company required more than winning customers. Roofing contractors often pay for materials and labor before collecting the final payment on a completed job.

Christian turned to Loot's revolving line of credit to help bridge the gap between project expenses and customer payments. In his account, access to credit gave him greater confidence when considering larger projects.

As Christian explained: "Knowing I have a line of credit I can count on, gives me the confidence to take on bigger and more projects." His experience illustrates how available credit can support business decisions when project expenses and customer payments follow different schedules.

Haystacks Restaurant: Supporting Day-to-Day Operations

In Sulphur Springs, Texas, William D'Angelo operates Haystacks Restaurant, a family business serving three meals a day, six days a week.

Running a restaurant means managing recurring expenses, from ingredients and staffing to everyday operating costs. Those obligations continue even when business conditions become challenging.

During a difficult period, Loot's line of credit helped Haystacks keep its doors open and manage immediate operating needs.

For restaurant owners, that kind of flexibility can be particularly relevant when expenses remain constant but incoming revenue fluctuates.

Errorless Service Dogs: Managing Unexpected Expenses

Dawn Scott runs Errorless Service Dogs, an organization that trains service animals and places them free of charge with people who might otherwise be unable to afford one. Her organization has faced a different set of financial pressures, including seasonal slowdowns and unexpected veterinary expenses.

For Dawn, access to Loot's revolving line of credit provided additional flexibility during seasonal slowdowns and periods of unexpected expenses. Her experience illustrates how access to working capital can help mission-driven organizations respond to unforeseen costs without losing sight of their day-to-day responsibilities.

Beyond Funding: Understanding the People Behind the Businesses

Loot's approach also extends beyond its digital platform.

Through "No Small Jobs," co-founder and Chief Experience Officer Luke Peake spends time working alongside the businesses Loot funds. He has joined Christian's roofing crew in Portland, visited Haystacks Restaurant in Texas, and worked alongside a plumbing crew in Memphis.

The series offers a firsthand look at the physical work, everyday decisions, and financial pressures behind small business operations. It also reflects Loot's emphasis on maintaining relationships with customers beyond the initial funding transaction.

On the technology side, the company provides self-service financial management tools and Blackbeard, an AI-powered account assistant designed to help customers access information about their accounts.

No single financing product fits every business. Costs, eligibility, and repayment obligations remain important considerations. Loot's revolving line of credit is intended for established companies seeking flexible working capital rather than startups with little operating history.

For business owners balancing payroll, supplier payments, and delayed customer invoices, Loot's combination of cash-flow-based underwriting, borrower control, and direct customer engagement offers an approach shaped around the realities of running a business.

About Loot

Loot Financial Services Corp. (Loot) is a Boston-based direct online lender and money app founded in 2021 by John Cain. The company provides unsecured revolving business lines of credit ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 for established U.S. small businesses. Built by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, Loot focuses on flexible working capital, transparent repayment terms, and borrower control. Businesses generally need at least one year of operating history and approximately $200,000 in annual revenue to meet minimum eligibility requirements. Loot does not impose a minimum FICO score, and checking eligibility involves a soft credit pull. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval or a specific credit limit. For more information, visit getloot.com.

Important Information

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or commitment to extend credit, nor does it constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. All revolving lines of credit and financing products are issued directly by Loot Financial Services Corp. and are subject to underwriting review, verification of business bank activity, and final approval. Eligibility checks utilize a soft credit inquiry that does not affect personal credit scores. Credit limits ($5,000 to $100,000), fee structures, draw availability, and repayment terms are determined by business cash flow, revenue history, and applicable state regulations. Same-day funding is subject to application submission timing, approval criteria, and receiving bank processing windows. Financing products and terms may not be available in all states or jurisdictions.

Media Contact

John Cain
Co-founder and CEO
hello@getloot.com

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, Spain, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- The Camino de Santiago has surpassed its previous annual pilgrim record ahead of the 2027 Holy Year, with figures from the Pilgrim's Reception Office indicating continued growth in the number of people completing the historic pilgrimage routes.

A total of 530,987 pilgrims received the Compostela certificate in 2025, according to the annual figures published by the Pilgrim's Reception Office in January 2026. A reading of the office's statistics dashboard on October 22 showed that 543,960 certificates had already been issued during 2026, with November and December still remaining.

The increase comes as Santiago de Compostela prepares for the next Holy Year, also known as the Jacobean Year or Xacobeo. The designation occurs when July 25, the feast day of Saint James the Apostle, falls on a Sunday. In 2027, the calendar meets that condition, making it a significant year for the religious tradition associated with the pilgrimage.

The Holy Year is scheduled to begin with the opening of the Cathedral of Santiago's Holy Door on December 31, 2026, and will continue throughout 2027. The occasion is expected to attract religious pilgrims and international visitors interested in the Camino's historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage.

The routes leading to Santiago de Compostela have connected communities across Europe for centuries. Although religious devotion remains an important motivation, the pilgrimage also attracts people interested in walking holidays, outdoor activities, cultural travel, and personal challenges.

The growth in recent years has increased attention on the practical arrangements required to accommodate pilgrims. Accommodation, transport, food services, and visitor facilities are among the areas that can experience additional demand, particularly along popular sections of the routes and during peak travel periods.

The French Way remains one of the most established pilgrimage routes, while the Portuguese Way, Northern Way, English Way, and Vía de la Plata provide alternative itineraries with different distances, landscapes, and starting points. The distribution of visitors across these routes and throughout the year is relevant to managing demand during periods of increased activity.

For people considering a pilgrimage in 2027, advance preparation may help address accommodation availability, route selection, transportation, and daily walking distances. Seasonal conditions also vary, with spring and early autumn generally attracting walkers seeking moderate temperatures. Summer can bring higher temperatures and increased visitor activity in some areas.

The anticipated increase in visitors also raises questions about the long-term management of the Camino's cultural and natural heritage. Historic settlements, rural landscapes, and local traditions form part of the route's identity. Maintaining trail conditions, managing visitor flows, and supporting the communities along the routes will remain important considerations as pilgrimage activity develops.

Viajes Camino de Santiago, a travel agency based in Santiago de Compostela specializing in organized journeys along the historic pilgrimage routes, operates within the region's wider travel and tourism sector.

Although the latest figures indicate sustained growth ahead of the Holy Year, the final number of pilgrims in 2027 remains uncertain. Accommodation capacity, travel conditions, seasonal demand, and the wider Holy Year programme will all influence visitor activity.

The upcoming celebration therefore represents both a religious milestone and an important period for the communities connected to the Camino. Its longer-term significance will depend not only on visitor numbers but also on the preservation of the routes and the experience they provide to future generations.

About Viajes Camino de Santiago

Viajes Camino de Santiago is a travel agency based in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, specializing in organized pilgrimages along the historic Camino de Santiago routes. The agency helps travelers plan and experience the Camino through tailored travel services, including accommodations, transportation and route planning. For more information, visit viajescaminodesantiago.com.

Media Contact

Miguel Sánchez
Chief Executive Officer, Viajes Camino de Santiago
info@viajescaminodesantiago.com

NEW YORK, NY, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- EZ Newswire, the newswire built for AI visibility and premium publisher distribution, today announced it earned the highest score in every satisfaction rating in G2's Fall 2026 Grid® Report for Press Release Distribution, compared with PR Newswire, Business Wire, and Notified GlobeNewswire (GlobeNewswire). The results reflect customer satisfaction across the full experience, from setup to support.

Across every satisfaction rating, from product direction to meeting requirements, EZ Newswire scored between 94% and 100%.

Measure by Measure

• Direction and Partnership: Every EZ Newswire reviewer (100%) said the product is heading in the right direction. EZ Newswire also earned 100% for ease of doing business with.
• Admin and Setup: EZ Newswire scored 100% for ease of admin and 98% for ease of setup.
• Support and Usability: Reviewers gave EZ Newswire 98% for quality of support and 97% for ease of use.
• Recommendation and Requirements: EZ Newswire scored 97% on likelihood to recommend and 94% on meeting requirements.

G2 Satisfaction Ratings, Fall 2026

• Product Direction: EZ Newswire led the field at 100%, compared to GlobeNewswire (83%), PR Newswire (71%), and Business Wire (70%).
• Ease of Doing Business With: EZ Newswire earned 100%, outpacing GlobeNewswire (91%), Business Wire (88%), and PR Newswire (82%).
• Ease of Administration: EZ Newswire scored 100%, followed by GlobeNewswire (88%), Business Wire (82%), and PR Newswire (76%).
• Quality of Support: EZ Newswire achieved 98%, ahead of GlobeNewswire (92%), Business Wire (90%), and PR Newswire (82%).
• Ease of Setup: EZ Newswire registered 98%, surpassing GlobeNewswire (88%), Business Wire (81%), and PR Newswire (76%).
• Ease of Use: EZ Newswire posted 97%, leading GlobeNewswire (88%), Business Wire (85%), and PR Newswire (75%).
• Likelihood to Recommend: EZ Newswire captured 97%, compared to GlobeNewswire (88%), Business Wire (82%), and PR Newswire (79%).
• Meets Requirements: EZ Newswire scored 94%, besting GlobeNewswire (90%), Business Wire (89%), and PR Newswire (81%).

Faster to Launch, Faster to ROI

G2 reviewers also reported getting up and running quickly with EZ Newswire. Customers went live in an average of less than a month, with 80% live in under a day. They also reported an average ROI payback period of five months.

• Average Time to Go Live: EZ Newswire delivered immediate deployment at 0 months, compared to 1 month for PR Newswire and GlobeNewswire, and 2 months for Business Wire.
• Payback Period (ROI): Customers reported reaching full return on investment with EZ Newswire in just 5 months, more than twice as fast as GlobeNewswire (10 months), Business Wire (11 months), and PR Newswire (16 months).

The results reflect the approach behind EZ Newswire: transparent pricing with no add-on upcharges, a checkout that takes a release from account creation to publication in under 10 minutes, and reporting built on real traffic data.

"We are honored that every one of these scores was earned by a customer who had a choice," said Neel Shah, founder and CEO of EZ Newswire. "Press release distribution hasn't changed much in decades. Our customers are telling us, metric by metric, that it's time it did."

Seven G2 Badges This Season

The satisfaction results build on the seven G2 badges EZ Newswire earned in the Fall 2026 reports, including High Performer honors across the Global, Mid-Market, Small Business, Europe, and EMEA Grid® Reports and an Easiest to Do Business With badge in the Relationship Index. EZ Newswire also ranked in the top 10% of 115 vendors in G2's Press Release Distribution category and holds a 4.8 out of 5 rating on G2.

Source

Ratings are sourced from G2's Fall 2026 Grid® Report for Press Release Distribution, comparing EZ Newswire, PR Newswire, Business Wire, and GlobeNewswire, based on verified user reviews. For details on evaluation criteria, visit G2's Research Methodologies.

About EZ Newswire

EZ Newswire is the newswire built for AI performance with a premium distribution network, real-time reporting, and AI citation tracking and insights on a single platform. From startup to scale-up to S&P 500, the most influential agencies and organizations rely on EZ Newswire to shape their digital and AI presence. Learn more at eznewswire.com.

Media Contact

Michelle Songy
Head of Growth
media@eznewswire.com

LOS GATOS, CA, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- AltraSensor Inc. (AltraSensor) has announced its Integrated Wildfire Prevention System and Processes, a patented technology concept designed to detect wildfires at their earliest stages and coordinate rapid intervention before they develop into catastrophic events. Supported by U.S. Patent No. 11,471,717 and related pending patent applications, the proposed system brings together satellite imaging, regional drone networks, AI-assisted analysis, and conventional firefighting infrastructure within a unified prevention framework.

The announcement comes amid growing concern over the economic and environmental consequences of increasingly destructive wildfires. AltraSensor believes that most of the technologies needed to improve early detection and response already exist, but they have to be integrated into the complete system and the processes have to be coordinated.

"The central idea is to prevent small fires from growing into large wildfires through early detection and an optimized response," AltraSensor explains. "The core technologies are available. What needs to be developed is the complete system that connects them and makes the right decisions at the right time."

The proposed architecture comprises four interconnected subsystems, each responsible for a different stage of detection and intervention. At its foundation is a constellation of low-orbit microsatellites equipped with specialized infrared and visible imaging spectrometers. These instruments would monitor the complete Earth landmass, comparing newly acquired imagery against reference images of the same locations to identify potential ignition events.

According to the technical proposal, the satellite network could achieve detection latency ranging from zero to 10 minutes, depending on the number and positioning of microsatellites. The imaging technology is intended to identify very small heat sources due to the high spatial resolution, while spectroscopic analysis would help distinguish potential wildfires from other sources of light and heat.

The second subsystem would consist of regional drone networks equipped with additional imaging capabilities and sensors. Once a satellite identifies a probable ignition, nearby drones would investigate the location and establish whether the alert represents an actual fire. This verification process is intended to reduce false alarms while providing additional information about conditions at the site.

Data would then move through communications infrastructure to processing centers, where AI-assisted software would analyse incoming satellite and drone information alongside historical wildfire records. The fourth subsystem would coordinate the optimized deployment of conventional firefighting resources, including helicopters, aircraft, and ground crews. Their effectiveness would be monitored through ongoing satellite and drone observations, allowing the response to be adjusted as the situation develops.

AltraSensor identifies this connection between detection and intervention as the defining feature of the proposal. Individual technologies and subsystems can provide essential information, but their effectiveness depends on how quickly that information translates into operational decisions.

"The system has to consider all of the available information, including historical data and the real-time development of the fire, to determine the optimum response," AltraSensor notes.

The AI-driven optimization software remains an important part of the development work still required. While the underlying technologies and infrastructure components substantially exist, their integration into a complete operational framework will require further engineering, software development and testing. AltraSensor also references case studies and analyses of previous major wildfires, which the company believes demonstrate the potential of the proposed systems, processes, and methodologies. The case studies showed that these large wildfires would have been prevented with the systems and processes in place if they were available. Further assessment is available for additional independent technical validation.

The potential economic implications are also significant. AltraSensor's preliminary estimates place the required investment at approximately $1 billion for California, $2 billion for the contiguous United States, and $6 billion for worldwide deployment. These investments should be contrasted against huge economic losses associated with major wildfires, alongside the human and environmental costs that are more difficult to quantify.

The environmental objectives include reducing emissions generated by large fires, including carbon dioxide, methane, and particulate pollution, while protecting forests that contribute to natural carbon sequestration. The company believes successful implementation could have a major impact on reducing climate change and prolonged firefighting operations, and improving the utilization of existing emergency response infrastructure.

AltraSensor is now seeking engagement with governments, emergency management authorities, technology specialists, and potential implementation partners to evaluate the proposed system. The development could proceed through government-funded programs, nonprofit arrangements, or a commercial profit-generating model, depending on the organization responsible for completing the work.

The company advocates a phased implementation strategy, beginning with regions facing the greatest wildfire exposure before expanding coverage as performance is established. The immediate priorities include completing the AI optimization software, integrating the four subsystems, and conducting independent assessments of detection accuracy, response effectiveness, and implementation costs.

"We want qualified experts and organizations to examine the work, evaluate its technical feasibility, and determine how it can be implemented," AltraSensor emphasizes. "The priority is making this solution available for the benefit of the world. We are prepared to provide the necessary information and cooperation so that its potential can be properly assessed."

Through the announcement, AltraSensor is seeking to bring wider institutional attention to a proposed approach that could change how large wildfire prevention is organized. Its central proposition is that earlier detection, supported by coordinated intelligence and more effective deployment of firefighting resources, could substantially eliminate the likelihood of small fires developing into large-scale disasters. 

About AltraSensor Inc.

AltraSensor Inc. is a technology company focused on developing innovative solutions to complex global challenges. Its work includes the development of an Integrated Wildfire Prevention System that combines satellite imaging, drone technology, and AI-assisted analysis to improve early fire detection and coordinate emergency response. Supported by patented technology and ongoing development initiatives, the company aims to bring existing technologies together into a unified framework for preventing wildfires and reducing their economic, environmental, and human impact.

Disclaimer

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities and commercial laws, including statements regarding the potential capabilities, deployment costs, detection latency, and environmental and economic impacts of AltraSensor Inc.'s Integrated Wildfire Prevention System. These statements and historical wildfire case studies represent theoretical and architectural models based on current engineering assumptions and patented concepts. Actual performance and deployment feasibility are subject to significant risks, technical uncertainties, regulatory approvals (including airspace and spectrum licensing), and the successful completion and integration of required AI software, satellite networks, and drone infrastructure. AltraSensor Inc. undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Media Contact

Vlad Novotny
physnovo@gmail.com

SEOUL, South Korea, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Dynamic Solution, a digital healthcare company specializing in XR and robotics, announced today that its VR-based hand rehabilitation robot system, Dynamic X-Hand, has been recognized across three categories of the CES 2027 Innovation Awards. The awards are presented by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the organization behind CES.

Announced each year ahead of CES, the CES Innovation Awards recognize standout products from around the world, with entries evaluated on technology, design, engineering, and value to users. Dynamic X-Hand was recognized in the XR & Spatial Computing, Digital Health, and Accessibility & Longevity categories. Recognition across three distinct categories underscores the platform’s strength as an integrated solution, combining immersive XR technology, robotic hardware, and digital healthcare services within a single system. The honors reflect the product’s strengths on three fronts: its technical innovation, its practical value in clinical settings, and its potential to address the challenges of an aging society.

Notably, Dynamic Solution has consistently demonstrated its innovation and technological capabilities in the global market, having received multiple CES Innovation Awards for its Smart Glove in 2017, Smart Pegboard in 2018, and Smart Balance in 2020.

Hands-On Remote Rehabilitation in a Shared Virtual Space

Patients who lose hand function due to a stroke or other medical conditions often require repetitive training over extended periods, which makes frequent hospital visits for therapist-supervised sessions challenging. Existing remote rehabilitation has largely been limited to watching and copying movements on a screen, making it hard to replicate the hands-on assistance a therapist provides by physically guiding a patient’s hand.

Dynamic X-Hand addresses this gap by combining a robotic glove with a shared virtual space. The patient wears a VR headset and a robotic glove that drives each of the five fingers independently, and meets a therapist, who may be in a different physical location, in the same virtual clinic. The therapist needs only a VR headset and no additional equipment. As the therapist performs assistive movements with their bare hands, the headset’s cameras track the motion and the robotic glove reproduces it on the patient’s hand. At home, patients receive the same kind of guidance they would get from a therapist holding their hand in a clinic. Patients can repeatedly practice everyday tasks such as stacking blocks, squeezing oranges, and gripping balls, without using up materials or worrying about breaking anything.

Therapists can fine-tune the level of assistance for each finger, from thumb to little finger, as well as for grasping and extension movements, to match the patient’s current level of function. These settings can be adjusted in real time based on the patient’s condition and training performance.

Dynamic Solution will also demonstrate multi-sensory technologies designed to make training more immersive: haptic feedback and a Peltier-based thermal feedback module, both being developed jointly with the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). The company is exploring how to expand the platform into a next-generation integrated system that can convey both the feel of gripping a virtual object and changes in temperature.

Patients Train at Home, Therapists Reach More Patients

Training results, including session time, task performance, and the movement of each finger, are recorded as quantitative data that therapists and patients review together. Sharing recovery progress through objective data rather than subjective impressions helps patients stay motivated and allows therapists to plan the next stage of training based on evidence.

As a result, patients can continue professional rehabilitation consistently at home without the burden of travel, while therapists spend less time on travel and preparation and can provide better-tailored care to more patients in the same amount of time. The system is expected to significantly improve access to rehabilitation in areas with limited rehabilitation staff and facilities, as well as for older patients with limited mobility.

“People who need to recover hand function, such as stroke patients, depend on consistent rehabilitation, but going to the hospital every time is not easy,” said Myunghun Baek, CEO of Dynamic Solution. “These awards recognize that by combining robotics with digital healthcare, we have opened a path for patients to continue rehabilitation at home while still feeling a therapist’s touch.”

Baek added: “Going forward, we will integrate next-generation brain-computer interface (BCI) chipset technology developed in collaboration with research institutions in Korea and abroad into our rehabilitation robots. Our goal is to build a neuro-robotics ecosystem that enables precise rehabilitation and daily assistance through thought alone.”

As part of this future vision, Dynamic Solution announced a new chapter in its corporate development by changing its name from Neofect to Dynamic Solution in March 2026. The rebranding reflects the company’s commitment to expanding beyond its existing rehabilitation business and actively pursuing forward-looking research in emerging fields such as robotics, brain-computer interfaces (BCI), and extended reality (XR).

Dynamic Solution will showcase Dynamic X-Hand at CES 2027 in Las Vegas on January 6, 2027, where the company will hold on-site meetings with medical device distributors, major hospital networks, and strategic investors from North America and Europe to discuss commercialization and supply agreements.

The company plans to expand its global sales network by targeting the North American and European markets simultaneously through its U.S. and German subsidiaries. In particular, it will deploy Dynamic X-Hand in real-world rehabilitation services at Community Rehab Care (CRC), its U.S. rehabilitation clinic subsidiary. The clinical usage data and operational experience gained there will help accelerate adoption by U.S. healthcare providers and expand global supply.

About Dynamic Solution

Dynamic Solution is a South Korea-based digital health care company specializing in XR- and robotics-based rehabilitation solutions for patients recovering from stroke, orthopedic injuries and neurological conditions. Among the company's best-known products are Smart Glove, Smart Pegboard and Smart Balance, which received CES Innovation Awards in 2017, 2018 and 2020, respectively. Today, Dynamic Solution's solutions are used in more than 750 hospitals and 3,000 clinical facilities across 34 countries. The company operates in North America and Europe through its U.S. and German subsidiaries, including CRC, its U.S.-based rehabilitation clinic. For more information, visit dynamicsolution.co.kr.

Disclaimer

The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges; the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made, nor did it test the item to which the award was given. Dynamic X-Hand is currently an investigational technology and has not yet been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or European regulatory authorities for commercial sale or clinical use. Statements in this release regarding future product development, clinical deployments, brain-computer interface (BCI) integration, and commercialization agreements constitute forward-looking statements subject to risks, technical uncertainties, and regulatory approvals that may cause actual results to differ materially.

Media Contact

Won Lee
Dynamic Solution
wslee00@dynamicsolution.co.kr
+82 10-4002-0029

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Astral, an AI neolab building hyper-personalized education, today announced it has raised a total of $5.5 million to bring its AI tutor to families in all 50 states. Thousands of families in more than 33 states already use it, and its students score nearly 40 percentile points higher than their public-school peers on standardized tests.

For most of history, great thinkers were shaped one-on-one. Leonardo da Vinci had Verrocchio. Michelangelo had Ghirlandaio. Galileo had Ricci. The Renaissance, one of the greatest bursts of art, science, and invention the world has ever seen, was built by hyper-personalized education.

Today, that kind of teaching is rationed to families who can afford private tutors or $40,000-a-year private schools. Astral believes AI can end this rationing, and that teaching every child the way they learn best will unlock the next renaissance.

Every civilization lives or dies by its thinkers. Ours is at risk. Most children are still taught in rows, at one pace, from one mass-produced textbook, and only 28 percent of American eighth graders are proficient in math. Now AI can even do their homework for them. The next generation risks never learning to think at all.

Astral uses AI to do the opposite. Its tutor doesn’t think for children; it teaches them to think. It learns each child’s gaps, pace, and way of reasoning, then writes their lessons around them, replacing the mass-produced textbook with a curriculum built for one student. It costs $100 per month, a fraction of private-school tuition, and is approved for Education Savings Account (ESA) funding in nine states, with more to come.

“What excites me about Astral is not simply the sophistication of its AI, but the educational principles driving its design: a living curriculum that continuously adapts to each learner,” said Victor Pereira, Co-Chair of the Teaching and Teacher Leadership Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Cathy Duffy, homeschooling legend and founder of CathyDuffyReviews.com, who has reviewed homeschool curriculum for more than 30 years, said: “Nearly all of the curriculum I’ve reviewed is written for an average student who doesn’t exist. Astral is truly innovative. It builds the curriculum around the child instead of making the child fit the curriculum.”

“My daughter used to say she just wasn’t a math person. Turns out she just needed math taught her way. Now it’s her favorite subject,” said Cassie Lollet, a parent whose two children use Astral.

Results like these brought back every institutional investor from Astral’s pre-seed, most investing above their pro rata allocations. The latest round was led by Andre Charoo, GP at MapleVC, with continued funding from Stand Together Ventures Lab (STVL), Conversion Capital, and Original Capital, among many others.

“I’ve spent two decades working to get great curriculum to every kid. Astral takes the next step: curriculum built for each one,” said Scott McNealy, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, which Oracle acquired for $7.4 billion, and founder of the free-curriculum nonprofit Curriki.

“Every great mind in history had someone who taught them, and only them. Genius has never been rare. The education that unlocks it has been,” said Shivam Sharma, CEO of Astral.

“No child is unteachable,” said Fhad Sheikh, CPO of Astral. “This funding brings hyper-personalized learning to every family in America.”

The AI tutor is Astral’s first step. As an AI neolab, Astral is building towards a larger purpose: a society of great thinkers. The last Renaissance brought a civilization back to life. Astral believes the next one will be built the same way: one child at a time, each taught the way they learn best.

About Astral

Astral is an AI neolab on a mission to build a society of great thinkers. It believes the next renaissance will be unlocked by hyper-personalized education: the one-on-one teaching that shaped history's greatest minds, made available to every child. Its first product, an AI math tutor for grades K-8, builds every lesson around how each child thinks. Founded by Shivam Sharma and Fhad Sheikh, Astral is backed by MapleVC, Stand Together Ventures Lab, Conversion Capital, and Original Capital. Learn more at astraltutor.com.

Media Contact

Ansley Brown Davis
abrown@standtogether.org

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Astral, an AI neolab building hyper-personalized education, today announced it has raised a total of $5.5 million to bring its AI tutor to families in all 50 states. Thousands of families in more than 33 states already use it, and its students score nearly 40 percentile points higher than their public-school peers on standardized tests.

For most of history, great thinkers were shaped one-on-one. Leonardo da Vinci had Verrocchio. Michelangelo had Ghirlandaio. Galileo had Ricci. The Renaissance, one of the greatest bursts of art, science, and invention the world has ever seen, was built by hyper-personalized education.

Today, that kind of teaching is rationed to families who can afford private tutors or $40,000-a-year private schools. Astral believes AI can end this rationing, and that teaching every child the way they learn best will unlock the next renaissance.

Every civilization lives or dies by its thinkers. Ours is at risk. Most children are still taught in rows, at one pace, from one mass-produced textbook, and only 28 percent of American eighth graders are proficient in math. Now AI can even do their homework for them. The next generation risks never learning to think at all.

Astral uses AI to do the opposite. Its tutor doesn’t think for children; it teaches them to think. It learns each child’s gaps, pace, and way of reasoning, then writes their lessons around them, replacing the mass-produced textbook with a curriculum built for one student. It costs $100 per month, a fraction of private-school tuition, and is approved for Education Savings Account (ESA) funding in nine states, with more to come.

“What excites me about Astral is not simply the sophistication of its AI, but the educational principles driving its design: a living curriculum that continuously adapts to each learner,” said Victor Pereira, Co-Chair of the Teaching and Teacher Leadership Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Cathy Duffy, homeschooling legend and founder of CathyDuffyReviews.com, who has reviewed homeschool curriculum for more than 30 years, said: “Nearly all of the curriculum I’ve reviewed is written for an average student who doesn’t exist. Astral is truly innovative. It builds the curriculum around the child instead of making the child fit the curriculum.”

“My daughter used to say she just wasn’t a math person. Turns out she just needed math taught her way. Now it’s her favorite subject,” said Cassie Lollet, a parent whose two children use Astral.

Results like these brought back every institutional investor from Astral’s pre-seed, most investing above their pro rata allocations. The latest round was led by Andre Charoo, GP at MapleVC, with continued funding from Stand Together Ventures Lab (STVL), Conversion Capital, and Original Capital, among many others.

“I’ve spent two decades working to get great curriculum to every kid. Astral takes the next step: curriculum built for each one,” said Scott McNealy, co-founder of Sun Microsystems, which Oracle acquired for $7.4 billion, and founder of the free-curriculum nonprofit Curriki.

“Every great mind in history had someone who taught them, and only them. Genius has never been rare. The education that unlocks it has been,” said Shivam Sharma, CEO of Astral.

“No child is unteachable,” said Fhad Sheikh, CPO of Astral. “This funding brings hyper-personalized learning to every family in America.”

The AI tutor is Astral’s first step. As an AI neolab, Astral is building towards a larger purpose: a society of great thinkers. The last Renaissance brought a civilization back to life. Astral believes the next one will be built the same way: one child at a time, each taught the way they learn best.

About Astral

Astral is an AI neolab on a mission to build a society of great thinkers. It believes the next renaissance will be unlocked by hyper-personalized education: the one-on-one teaching that shaped history's greatest minds, made available to every child. Its first product, an AI math tutor for grades K-8, builds every lesson around how each child thinks. Founded by Shivam Sharma and Fhad Sheikh, Astral is backed by MapleVC, Stand Together Ventures Lab, Conversion Capital, and Original Capital. Learn more at astraltutor.com.

Media Contact

Ansley Brown Davis
abrown@standtogether.org

BOSTON, MA, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Earnix, the AI company purpose-built for insurance, announced today that In The Car (ITC), a provider of digitally integrated insurance programs for automotive OEMs and dealerships, has selected Earnix's Price-It pricing and rating solution and Filing Accelerator to accelerate its expansion into new markets across the United States.

ITC currently operates in two states and is preparing to expand into additional U.S. markets as it scales insurance offered directly within the vehicle-buying journey. Its model enables OEMs and dealerships to offer customers coverage at the point of sale, creating a more integrated experience while opening new opportunities for automotive partners to deepen customer relationships.

As ITC's expansion accelerated, it needed pricing and filing capabilities that could scale with it. Earnix will replace its manual processes with business-managed pricing and filing capabilities designed to reduce reliance on IT, accelerate rate development and filing, and give ITC greater flexibility as it enters new markets.

Using Price-It, ITC's business teams will be able to build, test, and manage pricing directly, respond faster to changing market requirements, and incorporate additional market and competitive intelligence into future pricing decisions.

Earnix's Filing Accelerator will further compress the path from pricing decision to market by automating filing documentation and helping keep filed and production rates aligned.

"The opportunity is to make insurance a seamless part of the vehicle-buying experience and scale that proposition across more dealerships and markets," said Matt Edmonds, CEO of In The Car. "As we move into more markets, we need pricing and filing capabilities that can keep pace with that ambition without adding unnecessary complexity. Earnix gives our team the control and flexibility to manage that growth directly and move faster."

"In The Car is rethinking how auto insurance reaches customers," said Robin Gilthorpe, CEO of Earnix. "As that model expands, pricing and filing have to become an enabler of growth — helping ITC enter new markets faster, adapt quickly, and scale without adding unnecessary operational complexity. Our role is to give them the speed, control and flexibility to do exactly that."

About In The Car, LLC

In The Car, LLC, is a provider of white-labeled, digital-first insurance programs designed for automotive OEMs and dealerships. Its technology integrates insurance directly into the vehicle-buying experience, enabling customers to access coverage at the point of sale. More information about the company and its products and services is available at inthecar.com.

About Earnix

Earnix is the first AI company purpose-built for insurance decisioning, providing the industry with the intelligence, governance, and decisioning agility to drive profitable growth, improve resilience, and operate with speed and precision in a rapidly changing risk environment. A trusted provider of production-grade AI and decisioning technology for insurers, Earnix builds on more than 25 years of experience in artificial intelligence, risk, pricing, rating, analytics, and decisioning. Earnix brings vertical AI into the workflows and decisions that shape insurance performance across pricing, underwriting, claims, customer engagement, retention, and other high-value insurance moments. Earnix's AIOS enables insurers to orchestrate intelligence across the insurance decision lifecycle and drive governed, real-time decisions that deliver measurable business outcomes. For more information, visit earnix.com.

About European Business Magazine

European Business Magazine is a digital business publication covering news and analysis across business, finance, technology, travel, sustainability, foreign direct investment, fintech, culture, and executive education. Its platform features category-based editorial coverage, a daily news feed, and special sections such as the European Business Magazine Awards. For more information, visit europeanbusinessmagazine.com.

About Nick Staunton

Nick Staunton is the editor and chief executive of European Business Magazine, one of Europe's leading business and geopolitical analysis publications. He writes primarily on European markets, fintech, defence industry consolidation, and the business impact of geopolitical events. Nick has over a decade of experience in digital publishing and holds editorial responsibility for EBM's coverage of European rearmament, the Iran war's economic consequences, and the structural shifts reshaping European capital markets. He is based in the United Kingdom and is also chief executive of NST Publishing Ltd, the parent company of European Business Magazine.

Media Contact

Sylvie Picard
Waters Agency
earnixpr@watersagency.com

CAMBRIDGE, MA & LAKE MARY, FL, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- BlueSprig Pediatrics and Sunstone Health today announced a national partnership to expand what families affected by autism can access through a single relationship. BlueSprig, which serves families at 160 locations across the United States, joins Sunstone's ABA provider network as a preferred provider. Sunstone brings board-certified pediatric neurologists, clinical geneticists, genetic counselors and an integrated care team to BlueSprig's families.

For BlueSprig families, the partnership means speed and access. Medical questions that surface during therapy, such as a possible seizure history or a suspected genetic condition, have traditionally meant long specialist waitlists and a search the family runs on its own. BlueSprig clinicians can now connect families directly to Sunstone's specialists, who evaluate the child, deliver the diagnosis and the plan, and bring the family what it needs in one place.

"Our clinicians spend every day with these children, and we see the medical questions families carry alongside therapy," said Dr. Ania Labno, Chief Operating Officer of BlueSprig Pediatrics. "Partnering with Sunstone means those families now have specialists within reach instead of a waitlist. Offering that across all 160 of our locations is a meaningful step in what BlueSprig can do for the families who trust us."

For Sunstone's families, the partnership means trust. When Sunstone's physicians recommend ABA, families now have a direct path to a provider Sunstone has selected for its clinical standards, its reach and its track record with children on the spectrum. Families served through Sunstone's employer, health plan and direct-to-family programs gain access to top-tier ABA without having to vet providers themselves.

"Too many children in ABA have medical questions that never get answered: a possible seizure history, a condition that may be heritable, a next test that nobody has ordered," said Sunstone's Dr. Yu-Tze Ng. "BlueSprig's clinicians are in the room with these children every week. This partnership puts our specialists one step away from them, and it gives the families we serve an ABA partner we trust. That is the kind of care families should be able to count on."

Both organizations see the partnership as a model for what families affected by autism should expect: therapy, medical expertise and coordination working together rather than in isolation. BlueSprig and Sunstone are excited to bring that model to families across the country and to keep expanding the care these families deserve.

About Sunstone Health

Sunstone Health gives families a faster path to answers. Its board-certified pediatric neurologists, clinical geneticists and genetic counselors find and diagnose children with rare and genetic conditions, then deliver the care they need as one team. Sunstone serves families directly and through employers and health plans nationwide. Learn more at sunstonehealth.com.

About BlueSprig Pediatrics

Disclosure

Sunstone Health, Inc. is a management services organization based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It does not practice medicine and does not employ the clinicians who provide care. All medical services are provided by Sunstone Medical TX, PLLC, an independent, physician-owned professional practice operating as Sunstone Clinical, and its licensed clinicians, who exercise independent professional judgment over all clinical decisions. Sunstone Health provides non-clinical administrative, technology and support services to the practice under a management services agreement, including Sunstone Intelligence, its proprietary risk-scoring engine, and is SOC 2 certified. Applied behavior analysis services are provided by independent network providers, including BlueSprig Pediatrics, under their own licenses and clinical judgment. Sunstone's services are available to BlueSprig families on a self-pay basis, or through a family's employer or health plan where a Sunstone program is offered. Referrals in either direction are made at the clinician's discretion, and families always retain their choice of provider.

Media Contact

Sunstone Health
info@sunstonehealth.com

BlueSprig Pediatrics
mediainquiries@bluesprigpediatrics.com

NEW YORK, NY, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- As diamond buyers navigate more choices in stones, styles and prices, Bond Diamonds NYC is focusing its business on jewelry made for the individual customer. Operating from a private showroom in Manhattan's Diamond District, the company says approximately 90% of its sales involve custom-made pieces rather than jewelry purchased directly from existing inventory.

Led by longtime friends and business partners Moshe Saadia and Elan Shamsayev, Bond combines experience in wholesale diamond trading, international sourcing and jewelry design. Saadia entered the wholesale diamond business at 19, eventually supplying jewelers across the United States. Shamsayev, the son of a bench jeweler, has more than 22 years of industry experience and is a GIA Diamond Graduate specializing in diamonds and high-end engagement-ring design.

Customers work directly with a jeweler to select stones, settings and metals, review computer-aided design renderings and incorporate personal details, including heirloom stones. The appointment-only setting allows clients to take part in the design process, whether they are creating an engagement ring or another piece of fine jewelry.

The partners have also witnessed significant changes in diamond buying. Through an earlier venture, they were involved in bringing lab-grown diamonds to New York's 47th Street market when the category was still relatively new. Saadia says he is now noticing renewed interest in natural diamonds among some engagement-ring buyers, even as lab-grown stones remain popular for jewelry such as tennis bracelets and diamond studs.

Bond continues to offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, with the founders drawing on their experience in sourcing and design to help customers choose pieces suited to their preferences and budgets.

For Saadia, however, the relationship with a customer matters just as much after the purchase as it does before.

"Everybody can make a sale. The question is how you are post-sale," Saadia said.

That philosophy guides the company's emphasis on ongoing service and long-term relationships, with the aim of becoming a jeweler customers return to for engagements, anniversaries, gifts and other milestones.

Alongside custom jewelry, Bond offers fine jewelry and luxury timepieces through its Manhattan showroom.

About Bond Diamonds NYC

Bond Diamonds NYC is a New York jewelry retailer specializing in wedding and engagement rings, custom diamond pieces, and fine jewelry for everyday wear and special occasions. Its collection includes engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and lab-grown diamond designs available in a range of settings and metals. The company’s team includes Moshe Saadia, a partner with nearly 20 years of wholesale and retail diamond experience, and Elan Shamsayev, a GIA Diamond Graduate and Diamond Expert. More information is available at www.bonddiamondsnyc.com.

Media Contact

warren@rocketshippr.com

SHANGHAI, China, November 9, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Six AGIBOT G2 wheeled humanoid robots completed a 24-hour trial at an operating convenience store in Shanghai's Xuhui District, performing a combined 1,730 tasks ranging from customer assistance and coffee preparation to shelf restocking and cleaning.

The trial ran from 10 a.m. on November 2 to 10 a.m. on November 3 and was livestreamed to an audience of more than two million viewers across online platforms. Four of the six robots passed the final performance assessment.

The event marked the conclusion of AGIBOT's AI WAVE technology showcase, launched on October 22. Following a series of releases spanning robotics data, simulation, AI models, hardware, and operational software, the convenience store trial brought these technologies together in a real-world setting to examine how robots perform everyday tasks over an extended operating period. More broadly, the trial showed how embodied AI could move beyond controlled demonstrations and operate in the changing conditions of a live, customer-facing environment.

Six Robots Take on Everyday Store Operations

The six G2 robots were assigned different responsibilities: customer assistance, shelf inspections, restocking, coffee preparation, checkout, hot food service, and store cleaning.

Over the 24-hour period, they completed 683 customer-service interactions, 369 product pickups and deliveries, 147 coffee orders, 126 breakfast servings, 277 shelf inspections and restocking tasks, and 128 table-cleaning tasks.

The trial covered four operating periods: the lunchtime rush, evening peak hours, overnight operations, and the following morning's breakfast rush. Each period brought different demands, from handling customer requests during busy hours to maintaining store operations overnight.

The robots were assessed on their time on duty, task completion, customer feedback, response times, and ability to handle unexpected situations. Four passed the final assessment, while two did not meet all the criteria.

Two evaluators also conducted rounds of practical tests based on situations robots might encounter while serving customers. In one test, they ordered regular and sugar-free Coca-Cola to check whether the robots could distinguish between similar-looking products. In another, they rearranged packs of chewing gum on a shelf and asked the robots to return them to their correct positions.

The evaluators also blocked an aisle with a person and a box to test whether the robots could identify obstacles and navigate around them.

Real-World Retail Tasks Test Precision and Adaptability

A convenience store may appear to be a relatively straightforward environment for robots. Its layout is compact, and many tasks follow standard procedures. Yet everyday activities such as picking up products, restocking shelves, and preparing food require robots to adapt to small but frequent changes.

A bag of candy hanging at a slightly different angle can be difficult to grasp without disturbing nearby products. Handling a delicate item, such as a slice of cake, requires careful control of gripping force to avoid dropping or damaging it.

Unlike a controlled laboratory, an operating store presents constantly changing conditions. Customers move through the aisles, products are picked up and returned, and items vary in position, orientation, and packaging. Even when a robot repeats the same task, the conditions may differ from one attempt to the next.

During the trial, the G2 robots demonstrated several capabilities designed to address these challenges. They used real-time visual information to identify misplaced merchandise and return it to designated shelf positions rather than relying solely on preset coordinates.

A robot assigned to restocking detected gaps on shelves and replenished products without a specific prompt. In the cleaning area, another robot distinguished spills from countertop patterns and selected appropriate tools for cleaning.

These tasks tested more than individual movements. They required the robots to perceive their surroundings, make task-specific decisions, and adjust their actions as conditions changed.

Genie Master Connects Robot Actions with Continuous Improvement

The trial also tested how AGIBOT's Genie Master embodied AI agent framework could support task coordination, error correction, and learning from operational experience.

Even routine store tasks do not always go as planned. A robot may fail to grasp an item correctly, encounter an unexpected obstacle, or need to adjust its movements. Beyond completing individual tasks, the trial examined how robots could respond to these situations and use the resulting feedback to improve future performance.

Genie Master provides a shared framework for coordinating the six robots and connecting their actions with subsequent analysis and learning.

Through the Embodied Execution Protocol (EEP), Genie Master links task planning, execution, and feedback. The system organizes work according to each robot's capabilities and the conditions in the store. Robots then perform their assigned tasks using action policies and real-time observations, with execution results returned to Genie Master for analysis and troubleshooting.

The framework also supports learning from previous attempts. By reviewing successful and unsuccessful task executions, it can retain relevant experience in long-term memory for use in similar situations. Effective adjustments can also be converted into training data to help refine the robots' action policies.

This approach is intended to help robots build on previous experience rather than treating each task as an isolated operation. AGIBOT has been using operational feedback to improve G2 performance on tasks requiring precise manipulation, including additional practice during quieter overnight periods.

Plans to Expand Testing Across Real-World Applications

The convenience store trial brought together AGIBOT's robotics hardware, AI models, simulation technologies, and operational systems in a single working environment.

Beyond the number of tasks completed, the trial examined practical questions about robot performance: whether robots could carry out assigned duties over an extended period, how they responded to unexpected problems, and whether experience gained from previous tasks could be applied to new situations.

AGIBOT plans to continue testing its robots across additional roles and real-world environments, using operational feedback to improve reliability, task execution, and adaptability.

As robots take on a wider range of responsibilities, the company will also assess which capabilities and operating practices can be transferred between tasks and replicated across different settings. These findings will help guide the next stage of development toward more consistent and scalable real-world deployment.

About AGIBOT

AGIBOT is a pioneer in the global general-purpose AI robotics industry, with its core technology focused on embodied AI. AGIBOT's "Three Intelligences in One" architecture integrates Locomotion Intelligence, Interaction Intelligence, and Manipulation Intelligence into a unified embodied system. Its portfolio spans humanoid robots, quadrupeds, dexterous systems, and commercial cleaning solutions. In September 2026, AGIBOT announced that its 20,000th robot had rolled off the production line. For more information, please visit agibot.com and follow AGIBOT on X, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Media Contact

Michelle Xu
press@agibot.com

MELVILLE, NY, November 6, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- The Island Harbor Group at Morgan Stanley is built on a simple belief: Wealth should be a source of stability and opportunity, not complication and stress. Drawing on decades of experience, it has guided families, entrepreneurs, and professionals through decisions that go well beyond portfolio construction.

“Our services extend from succession planning and estate strategy to philanthropy, tax efficiency, and multigenerational education,” says Stephen Lawless, Financial Advisor, Executive Director.

With more than $1.8 billion in assets under management* and deep capabilities across financial planning, portfolio management, and alternative investments, the team combines the sophistication of a global financial platform with the personal touch of a trusted Financial Advisor.

A Wealth of Knowledge

Clients benefit not from a single advisor’s perspective but from the combined insight of the entire team. “With credentials such as CFP®, CRPC®, and Alternative Investments Director, the team brings both technical aptitude and personal dedication — depth that’s multiplied through teamwork,” says Kristen Signorile, CFP®, Financial Advisor, Senior Vice President, Alternative Investments Director.

“It’s good to have people to bounce ideas off and debate strategies that are appropriate for each scenario,” says Mark Greco, Financial Advisor, First Vice President. “None of us are looking to retire soon, but when the time comes, our clients and their families know they’ll be supported by a team built for continuity over time.”

Peter Sluka, Financial Advisor, First Vice President, adds, “Team-based coverage ensures clients always have multiple points of contact. This way advice stays consistent, service stays responsive, and client plans have continuity over time, even as life and markets change.”

Personalized Planning

“The Island Harbor Group doesn’t just manage portfolios — we help clients manage the financial decisions that shape their lives,” says James Flood, Financial Advisor, Executive Director, Alternative Investment Director. For some clients, that means coordinating with attorneys and accountants across generations. For others, it’s planning the sale of their business years in advance to help maximize value. For all, it means having a team that listens, speaks candidly, and never forgets that behind every number is a story.

Investments and taxes are important, but they’re only part of the picture. Estate planning, philanthropic goals, business transitions, and retirement strategies matter too — and they tend to be most effective when they’re aligned within a single integrated plan. As David Schiebelhuth, CRPC®, Financial Advisor, Senior Vice President, puts it, “Because each story is different, each plan should be different.”

The team believes they are at Morgan Stanley for a reason: Clients don’t just need advice, they need access. With the scale of a global leader and the precision of a boutique team, The Island Harbor Group at Morgan Stanley can help deliver resources that match the complexity of their clients’ financial lives.

A group portrait of seven professionally dressed team members standing in a row on the floor of a securities exchange, with market display boards and trading screens behind them.

Disclosures

*As of June 2026

The Island Harbor Group is an advisory team with the Wealth Management division of Morgan Stanley in Melville, New York. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC (sipc.org). The team has engaged Fortune to feature this profile in their magazine. They may only transact business in states where they are registered or excluded or exempted from registration. Transacting business, follow-up, and individualized responses involving either effecting or attempting to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, will not be made to persons in states where they are not registered or excluded or exempt from registration. The strategies and/or investments referenced may not be appropriate for all investors.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates, and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers a wide array of brokerage and advisory services to its clients, each of which may create a different type of relationship with different obligations to you. Please visit www.morganstanleyindividual.com or consult with your Financial Advisor to understand these differences.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates, and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trusts, estate planning, charitable giving, philanthropic planning, or other legal matters. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S.

© 2026 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 5580609 06/2026.

About The Island Harbor Group at Morgan Stanley

The goal of The Island Harbor Group at Morgan Stanley is to develop a thorough understanding of our clients so we can help them make better financial decisions that are consistent with their goals. Whether you’re planning for retirement, building a business, or setting your bucket-list goals, you need a team of financial advisors on your side. For further information about The Island Harbor Group at Morgan Stanley, please visit advisor.morganstanley.com/the-island-harbor-group.

Media Contact

Kelly Saronka
kelly.saronka@morganstanley.com