Svante & Meadow Lake Tribal Council Partnership Agrees to Sell Microsoft 626,000 Tonnes of Carbon Removal Credits

 Microsoft agrees to purchase 626,000 tonnes of durable carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits over a 15-year delivery term from the North Star BECCS project in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Indigenous ownership: North Star Carbon Solutions LP is a Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC)–Svante partnership.

The deal is Microsoft’s first Canadian BECCS CDR offtake agreement and is believed to be the first of its kind in Canada involving Indigenous ownership.

The project is co-located at the MLTC Bioenergy Centre and supplied by sustainable waste biomass from MLTC’s adjacent sawmill.

 

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Svante Technologies Inc. (Svante) and Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) announced today that North Star Carbon Solutions LP has entered into an offtake agreement with Microsoft to deliver 626,000 tonnes of durable carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits to be delivered over 15 years from the North Star bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) project in Saskatchewan, Canada. The project is being developed through a partnership between MLTC and Svante and will be co-located at the MLTC Bioenergy Centre in Meadow Lake.

As part of the project, a new carbon capture plant will be established at the MLTC Bioenergy Centre, a renewable power generation facility supplied by sustainable waste biomass from the adjacent sawmill owned by MLTC and other local forest product mills. The new plant will be owned by North Star Carbon Solutions LP, a partnership between MLTC and Svante’s recently acquired subsidiary, Carbon Alpha Corp. At capacity, the carbon capture plant will generate up to 90,000 tonnes of CDR credits per year and deliver CDR credits to Microsoft over a 15-year period. Captured CO2 will be safely transported and permanently stored at a geologic storage site owned and operated by North Star, providing a fully integrated system for carbon removal from source to sink.

The CDR credits delivered under the agreement are expected to be independently verified and issued in accordance with applicable carbon removal crediting standards and robust monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) practices. The North Star project plans to use waste biomass and to monitor CO2 capture, transport, and permanent geologic storage to support long-term durability.

Svante will provide all funding required until the decision is made to start construction. Commercial operation is planned for early 2029.

Scott Gardner, President of Svante Development Inc. said, “We are excited about this landmark agreement for BECCS in Canada, which is the result of Microsoft’s leadership in carbon removal. Microsoft’s anchor offtake commitment sends a strong signal to the market about the quality of North Star’s CDRs and the readiness of the Canadian market to deliver such projects.”

“Meadow Lake Tribal Council welcomes Microsoft’s significant offtake commitment for the North Star project,” said Jeremy Norman, Tribal Chief, Meadow Lake Tribal Council. “As a Canadian Indigenous-owned BECCS project that is believed to be among the first of its kind, North Star reflects MLTC Nations’ long-standing commitment to land stewardship and sustainable forest management. The project demonstrates how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can advance climate solutions while supporting meaningful employment and economic opportunities for our member Nations and the surrounding community.”

“We’re pleased to work with North Star Carbon Solutions and Meadow Lake Tribal Council to help advance high-quality, durable carbon dioxide removal,” said Phillip Goodman, Director of Carbon Removal Portfolio, Microsoft. “To meet our climate goals, we need to help scale solutions that deliver durable storage and are backed by rigorous monitoring and verification. This agreement supports an Indigenous-led collaboration that enables the infrastructure needed to bring durable carbon removal online in Canada, thus creating a pathway for additional projects over time.”

North Star is expected to create approximately 50 local jobs during the development and construction phase, and up to 10 ongoing jobs once the facility is operating, creating valuable employment opportunities for the Meadow Lake community. In addition, the project will support the local economy by increasing demand for nearby businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and service providers.

About Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC)

MLTC was formed in 1981 and represents nine First Nations located in Northwest Saskatchewan. MLTC invests in businesses to meaningfully participate in Saskatchewan's economy, supporting economic reconciliation in a rural and remote area of the province. 100% of the distributions flow to the nine First Nations, to foster local economic growth; enhance on-reserve education; healthcare; youth and elder programs; housing; and other community social and infrastructure needs.

About Svante

Svante is a fully integrated carbon management company headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The company manufactures nanoengineered solid sorbent filters and modular rotating contactor machines, licenses CO2 capture technologies and offers project development services and capital covering the entire carbon capture, removal, and storage value chain. Svante is on the 2025 Global Cleantech 100 Hall of Fame and TIME & Statista’s list of Top Greentech Companies of 2025. For more information, visit www.svanteinc.com.

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260406630377/en/

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Contacts

Media Contact:

Colleen Nitta

Director, Marketing & Communications

cnitta@svanteinc.com

 

No Layoffs, Salaries On Time: Danube Group Chairman Rizwan Sajan Assures Its 6000+ Workforce Despite Geopolitical Uncertainty

 At a time when the US–Israel–Iran conflict is reshaping geopolitical and economic realities, businesses across the region are being tested on their ability to adapt and endure. Against this backdrop, Danube Group’s Founder and Chairman Rizwan Sajan is setting a strong example of leadership by standing firmly by its workforce.

On Tuesday, Sajan took to Instagram to announce that the company will not lay off any employees. “I’ve faced many challenging situations in the past - from the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait to the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these, we have always bounced back stronger, and I’m confident we will do so again. During the pandemic, I had committed to not letting go of any employees, and I stood by that promise. Similarly, there will be no layoffs at Danube Group this time as well,” he said.

He further added, “Our 6000+ employees are not just our workforce - they are our family. They helped build Danube Group into what it is today. In times like these, we stand by them with the same commitment. All salaries will be paid on time, and we remain dedicated to serving our clients and customers.”

Over the years, Danube Group has developed a diversified and agile structure spanning building materials, real estate, and home solutions, allowing it to respond effectively to changing market conditions.

In fact, Danube Properties recently unveiled its first large-scale integrated community, Greenz by Danube, featuring premium townhouses and villas, starting from AED 3.5 million with their iconic 1% monthly payment plan, which has been well received by investors and homeowners alike.

The company continues to prioritize execution, ensuring timely project delivery and honoring commitments. As it navigates current geopolitical challenges, Danube Group is not only holding its ground but reinforcing its position - demonstrating that strong fundamentals and decisive leadership can turn uncertainty into sustained progress.

About Danube Properties

Danube Properties, a subsidiary of the Danube Group founded in 1993 by Rizwan Sajan, is among the UAE’s leading private real estate developers. Known for pioneering the 1% payment plan, the company delivers fully furnished apartments complemented by over 40 lifestyle amenities, with a strong track record of quality construction and timely delivery.

Permalink

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Contacts

Avinash Lohana

enquiry@danubeproperties.ae

+9718005757

Saudi Fund for Development Signs USD 15 Million Agreement with the Republic of Palau to Drive Local Economic Growth

  Ngerulmud, Republic of Palau - Monday, 06. April 2026 AETOSWire 

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) today signed a USD 15 million development loan agreement with the Republic of Palau, marking the Fund’s first-ever development partnership in the Pacific island nation.

 

The agreement was signed by H.E. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer of SFD, and H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau during a ceremony in Palau’s capital, Ngerulmud.

 

The USD 15 million development loan will be channeled through the National Development Bank of Palau. Designed to empower the local economy, the financing will support projects spearheaded by Palauan developers, businesses, and entrepreneurs. By aligning with Palau’s national priorities, the funds will catalyze high-impact initiatives and foster sustainable, grassroots economic growth.

 

This agreement reflects SFD’s continued commitment to Small Island Developing States (SIDS), having supported development projects across 18 island nations in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. Through its financing, SFD contributes to strengthening economic resilience, expanding access to essential services, and enabling sustainable development in developing economies.

 

H.E. Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, stated the deep appreciation for the assistance. He noted: “This agreement is about building a stronger Palauan economy by channeling this financing through our National Development Bank so that Palauan developers, businesses, and entrepreneurs can lead new projects that create jobs, unlock investment, and keep more value here at home. At the same time, by prioritizing affordable, climate-resilient housing, we are strengthening our communities, giving our young people more reasons to build their future in Palau, and laying a more resilient economic foundation for generations to come.”

 

H.E. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development, stated: “We are proud to launch our first collaboration with the Republic of Palau. By expanding access to vital funding, we aim to uplift local entrepreneurs and help secure a resilient future for the Palauan people. This agreement embodies our broader mission to foster prosperity across island nations.”

 

Since its establishment in 1974, the Saudi Fund for Development has supported developing countries through concessional financing, contributing to sustainable social and economic growth worldwide.

 

About the Saudi Fund for Development: 

 

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) is a government institution that provides concessional development loans, to finance projects and programs in developing countries. 

 

Since its establishment in 1974, SFD has financed more than 800 projects and programs in over 100 countries, with a total value exceeding USD 22 billion. These projects span sectors including transportation and communications, social infrastructure, agriculture, energy, industry and mining, among others. These projects contribute to generating socio-economic growth and improving the living standards of disadvantaged communities in countries most in need. SFD’s activities are guided by international development principles and support the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Fund also works to strengthen development cooperation through partnerships with regional and international organizations. 

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Contacts

Nawaf Alojrush | Director of Media Relations | Saudi Fund for Development | alojrush@sfd.gov.sa | Tel: +966112714148

Space42 et Viasat partageront les avancées sur Equatys lors du Mobile World Congress

 

BARCELONE, Espagne - jeudi, 02. avril 2026

 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Space42, société SpaceTech des Émirats arabes unis propulsée par l’IA, et Viasat, Inc., leader mondial des communications par satellite, présenteront cette semaine au Mobile World Congress de Barcelone les dernières avancées de leur infrastructure direct-to-device (D2D). Elles offriront également un premier aperçu des priorités d’Equatys, la future entité détenue conjointement par les deux entreprises, lors d’un programme co-organisé. Cette première présentation publique de la vision technique et commerciale d’Equatys illustre son ambition : accélérer l’adoption mondiale de la D2D et transformer la mobilité spatiale en opportunité collective. L’événement rassemblera décideurs, régulateurs et leaders du secteur pour discuter des moyens d’avancer simultanément concurrence, résilience et souveraineté, tout en ouvrant la voie à de nouveaux modèles économiques et innovations dans l’espace.

Space42 et Viasat, cofondateurs d'Equatys, cumulent plus de 60 ans d'expertise dans les services satellitaires mobiles. Conçue comme une plateforme d'infrastructure partagée indépendante, neutre et multi-locataires, Equatys permettra d'étendre la connectivité basée sur les normes 3GPP aux milliards de personnes encore sous-desservies par les réseaux terrestres. Depuis l'annonce d'Equatys en septembre 2025, les cofondateurs ont fait des avancées significatives, notamment dans la création de l’entité, le développement technique et les premiers engagements commerciaux avec les opérateurs de réseaux mobiles (MNO), marquant des progrès concrets vers un déploiement progressif de la plateforme.

Mark Dankberg, PDG et président de Viasat, a déclaré : « La mobilité spatiale est une couche fondamentale pour une connectivité globale fluide et ininterrompue. Avec Equatys, nous développons une plateforme permettant aux nations, aux opérateurs et aux innovateurs d'étendre une connectivité satellitaire sécurisée, abordable et conforme aux normes 3GPP à des milliards de personnes. Ce modèle global et évolutif garantit que l'ensemble de l'écosystème de participants peut bénéficier de barrières à l'entrée réduites, d'une diversité accrue des fournisseurs et des économies d'échelle, tout en renforçant la concurrence tout au long de la chaîne de valeur. Nous nous engageons à offrir une expérience utilisateur sans friction, avec des transitions transparentes qui offrent aux opérateurs choix et flexibilité pour leurs clients. »

Karim Michel Sabbagh, directeur général de Space42, a déclaré : « Equatys reflète une exécution rigoureuse guidée par un objectif clair : combiner l'envergure des réseaux terrestres avec l'efficacité de l'espace. Cette collaboration s'inscrit dans la stratégie de Space42 visant à devenir un leader mondial des réseaux non terrestres. À ce jour, elle a permis d’atteindre des jalons techniques majeurs, avec des accords d'abonnement en cours, des opérateurs de réseaux mobiles engagés, et des dépôts internationaux effectués. Equatys démontre comment la mobilité spatiale peut moderniser les services satellitaires mobiles existants, renforcer les réseaux terrestres dans les zones sous-desservies et ouvrir la voie à de nouveaux services sur de multiple marchés. »

Ali Al Hashemi, PDG des services spatiaux chez Space42, a commenté : « Equatys repose sur le principe que l’infrastructure partagée profite à tous. Le modèle d’accès au spectre permet aux nations de conserver leur autonomie souveraine et le contrôle des licences, tout en augmentant la capacité satellitaire et en réduisant sensiblement les coûts. En utilisant une architecture basée sur des standards, conçue pour permettre une transition transparente et automatique entre les réseaux terrestres et satellitaires, nous envisageons de déployer la connectivité spatiale à grande échelle pour atteindre les populations qui ne sont pas couvertes par les réseaux traditionnels. »

Configuration de la constellation et stratégie d’utilisation du spectre

Le système devrait fonctionner initialement sur un spectre de service mobile par satellite (MSS) harmonisé à l’échelle internationale sur les bandes L et S, avec une capacité technique lui permettant de prendre en charge plus de 100 MHz de spectre MSS attribué et coordonné. En s'alignant sur les normes 3GPP, la plateforme intégrera les réseaux terrestres et satellites, offrant une transition fluide et transparente lorsque le service terrestre devient indisponible. Cette approche permet de préserver la liberté de choix des opérateurs au sein de l'écosystème des réseaux terrestres.

Fonctionnant selon un modèle neutre de « tour spatiale », comparable à celui d’une towerco classique, Equatys vise à offrir le coût unitaire le plus bas pour la capacité satellitaire, tout en garantissant le respect les droits d’usage du spectre et les intérêts souverains de chaque partenaire. Le modèle est conçu pour accueillir d'autres partenaires, opérateurs satellites et titulaires de licences spectrales à mesure que l'écosystème se développe. Les technologies optimisées pour la charge utile et les systèmes au sol visent à minimiser les exigences de masse à lancer en orbite tout en soutenant l'évolutivité à long terme et l'efficacité du capital.

L'infrastructure multi-locataires partagée d'Equatys sera soutenue par jusqu'à 2 800 satellites répartis sur 60 plans orbitaux et trois couches d'altitude, déployés par Viasat et Space42. Cette architecture modulaire est conçue pour accroître sa densité sans nécessiter une refonte fondamentale, permettant à l'écosystème de croître à un rythme adapté au marché et de répondre à la demande de milliards d'utilisateurs potentiels à mesure que celle-ci augmente.

Dynamique commerciale

Space42 a annoncé des partenariats pour explorer la connectivité D2D rendue possible par Equatys avec e& UAE, la branche télécom phare d'e& aux Émirats arabes unis, ainsi qu'avec PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), l'opérateur satellitaire national d’Indonésie.

Ces engagements reflètent l'intérêt des opérateurs pour renforcer la couverture via des architectures intégrant réseaux satellitaires et terrestres, tout en respectant les cadres réglementaires nationaux et les normes 3GPP.

Cette coentreprise reste soumise à la finalisation des accords définitifs, aux approbations réglementaires et aux conditions de clôture habituelles. Les entreprises prévoient de fournir de nouvelles mises à jour au fur et à mesure qu'Equatys progresse vers sa mise en place officielle.

Mobile World Congress

Dans le cadre du programme co-organisé du MWC, Mark Dankberg, PDG et président de Viasat, et Karim Sabbagh, directeur général de Space42, un Fireside Chat pour discuter des opportunités et des politiques façonnant l’avenir de la mobilité spatiale. Le programme explorera comment la prochaine génération de connectivité spatiale peut être conçue pour préserver la concurrence, offrir de nouvelles capacités de service et respecter les priorités souveraines, tout en renforçant la résilience et en multipliant les choix pour les utilisateurs.

Les inscriptions pour le Fireside Chat et les autres panels co-organisés sont disponibles [ici].

À propos de Space42

Space42 (ADX : SPACE42) est une entreprise de technologie spatiale (SpaceTech) basée aux Émirats arabes unis, qui utilise l'IA pour intégrer les communications par satellite, les analyses géospatiales et les capacités d'intelligence artificielle afin d’éclairer la Terre depuis l'espace. Créée en 2024 à la suite de la fusion réussie de Bayanat et Yahsat, Space42 bénéficie d’une portée mondiale qui lui permet de répondre aux besoins en constante évolution de ses clients issus des gouvernements, des entreprises et des communautés. Space42 comprend deux unités commerciales : Yahsat Space Services et Bayanat Smart Solutions. Yahsat Space Services se concentre sur les opérations satellitaires en amont, pour les solutions satellitaires fixes et mobiles. L’unité Bayanat Smart Solutions intègre l'acquisition et le traitement des données géospatiales à l'IA afin d’éclairer la prise de décision, d’améliorer la conscience situationnelle et d’accroître l'efficacité opérationnelle. Les principaux actionnaires de Space42 sont G42, Mubadala et IHC.

Pour plus d'informations, rendez-vous sur : www.space42.ai; suivez-nous sur X : @space42ai

À propos de Viasat

Viasat est une entreprise mondiale de communication qui croit que chacun et chaque chose dans le monde peuvent être connectés. Présente dans 24 pays à travers le monde, notre mission consiste à façonner la manière dont consommateurs, entreprises, gouvernements et forces armées communiquent et se connectent à travers le monde. Viasat développe un réseau de communication global de pointe offrant des connexions de haute qualité, fiables, sécurisées, abordables et rapides, pour laisser un impact positif sur la vie des personnes, qu’elles soient sur terre, dans les airs ou en mer, tout en construisant un futur spatial durable.

En mai 2023, Viasat a finalisé l'acquisition d'Inmarsat, joignant les équipes, technologies et ressources des deux entreprises, creeant ainsi un nouveau leader mondial des communications. Pour en savoir plus, rendez-vous sur : www.viasat.com, la Viasat News Room ou suivez-nous sur LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Threads et YouTube.

Copyright © 2026 Viasat, Inc. Tous droits réservés. Viasat, le logo Viasat et le signal Viasat sont des marques déposées aux États-Unis et dans d'autres pays appartenant à Viasat, Inc. Tous les autres noms de produits ou d'entreprises sont mentionnés à titre indicatif et peuvent constituer des marques déposées de leurs propriétaires respectifs.

Avis juridique et déclaration d'avertissement concernant les énoncés prospectifs

Cette annonce peut contenir des déclarations prospectives fondées sur les attentes et les projections actuelles concernant des événements futurs. Ces déclarations, identifiées par des termes tels que « s'attendre », « s'attendre » ou similaires, sont soumises à des risques et des incertitudes et peuvent s'avérer inexactes. Ces déclarations prospectives reflètent, les informations disponibles à la date à laquelle le présent document a été publié, et les entreprises déclinent toute obligation ou engagement de les mettre à jour. Aucune déclaration ou garantie n'est donnée quant à la réalisation de ces déclarations prospectives, et une confiance excessive ne doit pas être placée dans ces déclarations. Cette annonce ne constitue pas une promotion financière ni une offre de sollicitation d'achat ou de vente de titres dans une quelconque juridiction.

Contacts :

Contact: media@space42.ai

Space42 and Viasat to Share Progress on Equatys at Mobile World Congress

 

BARCELONA, Spain - Thursday, 02. April 2026

 

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, and Viasat, Inc., a global leader in satellite communications, will discuss continued progress toward their planned direct-to-device (D2D) infrastructure and offer an early look at the priorities for Equatys, the companies' forthcoming joint entity, during a co-hosted program at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week. The program marks the first public showcase of Equatys' technical direction and commercial vision, reflecting its ambition to accelerate global D2D adoption.   This event brings together policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to explore how competition, resilience, and sovereignty can be advanced simultaneously, along with enabling new business cases, turning space-enabled mobility into a shared success story for all.

Space42 and Viasat are the cofounders of Equatys, bringing together over 60 years of combined mobile satellite services experience. Equatys is designed as an independent, neutral, multi-participant shared infrastructure platform to extend 3GPP-based connectivity to the billions underserved by terrestrial networks. Since announcing Equatys in September 2025, the cofounders have advanced the program across initiation of venture formation, engineering development, and initial commercial engagement with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), marking concrete progress toward phased deployment.

Mark Dankberg, CEO and Chairman of Viasat, said: "Space-enabled mobility is a foundational layer for global, seamless connectivity. With Equatys, we are building a platform that empowers nations, operators, and innovators to extend secure, affordable, 3GPP-aligned satellite connectivity to billions. This scalable global model ensures the full ecosystem of participants can benefit from lower barriers to entry, expanded supplier diversity and economies of scale, and stronger competitive dynamics across the value chain.   We are committed to delivering a frictionless end-user experience with seamless handover enabling choice for the carriers. "

Karim Michel Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, said: "Equatys reflects disciplined execution against a clear objective: combining the scale of terrestrial networks with the efficiency of space. The collaboration is rooted in Space42's strategy to become a global leader in Non-Terrestrial Networks, and to date has achieved significant engineering milestones, with subscription agreements underway, mobile network operators engaged, and international filings submitted. Equatys demonstrates how space-enabled mobility can modernize legacy Mobile Satellite Services, augment terrestrial networks in lacking areas, and unlock new services across markets."

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, commented: "Equatys is being built on the principle that shared infrastructure benefits all. The spectrum access model allows nations to retain their sovereign autonomy and licensee control, while advancing satellite capacity with significant cost savings. Combined with a standards-based architecture designed to allow seamless, automatic transition between terrestrial and satellite networks, we intend to scale space-enabled connectivity to those beyond traditional network reach." 

Constellation Architecture and Spectrum Strategy

The system is expected to operate initially in globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum, with technical capability to operate across over 100 MHz of globally allocated and coordinated MSS spectrum. By aligning with 3GPP standards, the platform will integrate terrestrial and satellite networks, enabling seamless transition when terrestrial service becomes unavailable. This will be done while preserving operators’ choice within the -Terrestrial Network ecosystem.

Operating on a Tower Co. model, Equatys intends to deliver the lowest unit cost of satellite capacity while preserving each partner's spectrum rights and sovereign interests. The model is designed to welcome additional cofounders, satellite operators, and spectrum holders as the ecosystem takes shape. Efficient payload and ground technologies are intended to minimize mass-to-orbit requirements while supporting long-term scalability and capital efficiency.

Equatys' shared multi-tenant infrastructure will be supported by up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes and three altitude layers, deployed by Viasat and Space42. The architecture is intended to densify without fundamental redesign, enabling ecosystem growth at a market-responsive pace and catering to billions of potential users as demand scales.

Commercial Momentum

Space42 has announced partnerships to explore Equatys-enabled D2D connectivity with e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of global technology group e&, and with PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), Indonesia's national satellite operator.

These engagements reflect operator interest in extending coverage through integrated satellite-terrestrial architectures, aligned with national regulatory frameworks and 3GPP standards.

The venture remains subject to definitive agreements, regulatory approvals, and customary closing conditions. The companies intend to provide further updates as Equatys progresses toward formal establishment.

Mobile World Congress

As part of the co-hosted MWC program, Viasat CEO and Chairman Mark Dankberg and Space42 Managing Director Karim Sabbagh will conduct a Fireside Chat to discuss the opportunities and policies shaping the future of space-enabled mobility. The program will explore how the next generation of space-enabled connectivity can be designed to preserve competition, unlock new service capabilities, and align with sovereign priorities, while strengthening resilience and expanding choice.

Attendees can register for the Fireside Chat and other co-hosted panels [here].

About Space42

Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42's global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobility satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC.

For more information, visit: www.space42.ai; follow us on X: @space42ai

About Viasat

Viasat is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. With offices in 24 countries around the world, our mission shapes how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the world communicate and connect. Viasat is developing the ultimate global communications network to power high-quality, reliable, secure, affordable, fast connections to positively impact people's lives anywhere they are, on the ground, in the air or at sea, while building a sustainable future in space. In May 2023, Viasat completed its acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the teams, technologies and resources of the two companies to create a new global communications partner. Learn more at www.viasat.com, the Viasat News Room or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Threads, and YouTube.

Copyright © 2026 Viasat, Inc. All rights reserved. Viasat, the Viasat logo and the Viasat Signal are registered trademarks in the U.S. and in other countries of Viasat, Inc. All other product or company names mentioned are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Legal Notice and Cautionary Statement regarding forward-looking information

This announcement may contain forward-looking statements based on current expectations and assumptions about future events. These statements, identified by terms such as "expect," "will," or similar, are subject to risks and uncertainties and may prove inaccurate. They reflect information available as of the date hereof, and the companies disclaim any obligation to update them. No assurance is given that any forward-looking statement will occur, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. This announcement does not constitute a financial promotion or an offer to buy or sell securities in any jurisdiction.

Contacts :

media@space42.ai

Visa Defines the Next Era of Commerce: When AI Becomes the Customer

 New Visa research reveals more than half of business leaders surveyed are open to AI-to-AI negotiation, but consumers say trust and override capability are non-negotiable

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--A majority of business leaders are preparing for a world where artificial intelligence doesn’t just assist commerce, it participates in it. New research from Visa (NYSE:V) underscores how quickly that shift is gaining momentum.

The Visa Business-to-AI (B2AI) Report, conducted in conjunction with Morning Consult, highlights how AI is already influencing demand. Nearly 40% of Americans have made a purchase they normally would not have considered as a result of using an AI agent or tool. This is an early indication that intelligent systems are beginning to shape how people discover and decide what to buy.

The new report also reveals that 53% of U.S. businesses in the survey would allow AI agents to negotiate prices or terms directly with other AI agents on their behalf, signaling that AI-to-AI commerce is poised to scale.

At the same time, 71% of businesses say they are willing to optimize products, offers and experiences specifically for AI agents, while 77% are already using or piloting AI in their operations.

Why B2AI Has Arrived

Visa defines this next phase of commerce as B2AI, an emerging economic model in which AI agents act as active participants in commercial decision-making and execution, while humans remain accountable for intent and outcomes.

“Commerce is moving from market-to-human to market-to-machine,” said Frank Cooper III, Chief Marketing Officer at Visa. “B2AI describes what happens next as AI agents begin evaluating, negotiating and transacting on behalf of people. In that world, as always, trust becomes the critical infrastructure. If we don’t build it into machine-mediated commerce, adoption stalls.”

AI Is Moving from Assistant to Economic Proxy

For years, AI has optimized recommendations and streamlined operations. The new data suggests it is now crossing into decision-making territory. Among business decision-makers surveyed:

53% would permit AI agents to negotiate directly with other AI agents

88% are willing to provide pricing or inventory data to enterprise AI systems

55% are already familiar with the concept of B2AI commerce

This signals a turning point: brands are no longer just marketing to humans — they are preparing to transact more freely with intelligent systems acting on behalf of customers and enterprises.

Consumers Are Ready, with Guardrails

On the consumer side, acceptance is accelerating, but trust remains the defining factor for full adoption. The report found:

58% of Americans are comfortable with AI comparing prices

55% are comfortable with AI applying discounts

38% are comfortable with AI completing a purchase

Meanwhile:

Only 27% are comfortable allowing AI to spend money autonomously without limits

60% would not allow AI to spend any amount without approval

“The message is unmistakable: people are open to AI acting for them, not instead of them,” added Cooper. “Our findings show that trust is the adoption switch for agentic commerce. Consumers are willing to let AI act on their behalf, but only when they retain visibility, control and the ability to intervene.”

Notably, trust increases significantly when financial institutions are involved:

36% trust bank-backed AI systems

35% trust payment network-enabled AI

Only 28% trust independent AI agents

Generation Acceleration

The shift is especially pronounced among younger consumers.

Nearly half of Gen Z (48%) say they trust payment network-enabled AI systems, compared to only 20% of Boomers. Among Gen Z and Millennials using AI shopping assistants, nearly half report making purchases they wouldn’t otherwise have considered due to AI recommendations.

A Defining Moment for Commerce

The data signals that AI is shifting from support system to transaction participant. Businesses are preparing for it. Consumers are cautiously embracing it. Trust will determine how fast it scales.

To learn more about the report, visit here.

Methodology

This survey was conducted between January 29th to February 6th, 2026, among a sample of 2,000 Gen Pop Adults in the U.S. and 512 Business Decision Makers in the US. The interviews were conducted online and the results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points for Gen Pop and plus or minus 4 points for Business Decision Makers. The Gen Pop results are weighted to the U.S. general population based on gender, age, race/ethnicity, region, and education. The Business Decision Maker results are unweighted.

About Visa

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating payments transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

 

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Contacts

Media Contact

Conor Febos – cfebos@visa.com

 

The Estée Lauder Companies Fully Establishes Its “One ELC” Operating Model and Reaches Milestone in Its Profit Recovery and Growth Plan

 NEW YORK 

WPP Appointed First-Ever Global Media Partner, Unifying Media Execution Worldwide

“One ELC” Operating Model Is Transforming How the Company Operates at Scale

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. (NYSE: EL) today announced WPP as its first-ever global media partner, marking a significant advancement of its One ELC operating model, a scalable system designed to operate faster, execute with greater discipline, and drive growth. In fully establishing One ELC, the Company also reached a significant milestone in its Profit Recovery and Growth Plan’s (PRGP) Restructuring Program — a key action plan priority of Beauty Reimagined.

Stéphane de La Faverie, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Estée Lauder Companies, said, “With the appointment of WPP as our first-ever global media partner, our One ELC operating model is now fully established. This more unified and scalable system will enable us to be faster, more agile and efficient, and support unlocking additional growth. Together with our execution progress, we are confident that we are on a trajectory to deliver sustainable, profitable long-term growth.”

de La Faverie added, “Building on our strong fiscal 2026 first half results, which included increased consumer-facing investments to restore sustainable sales growth, today we announced an important milestone in the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan’s Restructuring Program. We have now approved initiatives to achieve the high-end of the target gross savings range and affirmed we are on track to realize the vast majority of PRGP’s full run-rate benefits in fiscal 2027. The PRGP has instilled a strong sense of cost discipline into our organization that is now embedded in our ways of working.”

Advancing a New Operating Foundation

The Company has fundamentally changed how it operates and now has the foundational pieces in place to complete its transformation. At the center of this is the Company’s One ELC operating model, an integrated system built on three elements: One Team, One Culture, and One Operating Ecosystem.

One Team, deployed swiftly in July 2025 to simplify the organization with fewer layers and silos, clearer ownership, and faster decision making.

One Culture, introduced in February 2026, to reinforce how teams work every day, grounded in accountability, bold, entrepreneurial thinking, and agility.

One Operating Ecosystem, built over the last year and now fully in place, brings together shared platforms, data, and strategic partners to enable consistent, scalable, and effective execution across brands, regions, and functions.

Establishing a Unified Global Media Model

As a core component of its One Operating Ecosystem within One ELC, the Company has appointed WPP as its first global media partner, establishing a unified, enterprise-led approach to media buying designed to enable greater scale, precision, and impact.

The Company is moving from a decentralized regional media structure to a connected global system powered by data, technology, and AI. This model strengthens the Company’s ability to generate and capture demand while improving media effectiveness and efficiency at scale and at speed.

Aude Gandon, Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, The Estée Lauder Companies, said, “Today, beauty is discovered and experienced across a constantly evolving mix of platforms. To lead in this environment, we are building a connected, AI-enabled media system that brings brand building and performance together at global scale. Partnering with WPP strengthens our ability to invest with greater precision, move with greater speed, and deliver stronger, more measurable returns, while keeping creativity and brand leadership at the center of everything we do.”

Delivering a Connected Ecosystem with Strategic Partners

With WPP’s appointment, the Company’s One Operating Ecosystem is now in place and brings together a coordinated set of best-in-class strategic partners to modernize and scale how it operates globally.

Accenture is transforming shared services through the Company’s Enterprise Business Services (EBS) model, driving standardization, efficiency, and scalability across core functions. The Company has designed EBS and begun transitioning services, with the model on track to be fully in place before the end of calendar year 2026.

Shopify powers the Company’s global direct-to-consumer omnichannel experience, creating a modern and unified commerce foundation. Initial implementation with TOM FORD BEAUTY’s brand.com in the U.S. has already delivered improved sales, conversion, and average order value performance — all encouraging signs as the foundation scales. Following the initial implementation phase, the Company expects to have launched 50% of the in-scope direct-to-consumer business by the end of calendar year 2026.

By partnering with best-in-class organizations, the Company is transitioning from a fragmented data landscape to a more unified one. This will create a scalable foundation for real-time insights, a single consumer view, and more effective activation across brands and markets.

Delivering Against the Profit Recovery and Growth Plan

Since expanding the Restructuring Program when it introduced Beauty Reimagined in February 2025, the Company has taken decisive actions to reshape its cost structure and operations, allowing for increased consumer-facing investments. As of March 31, 2026, the Company has approved initiatives expected to deliver total gross benefits at the high end of its targeted range of $0.8 billion to $1.0 billion, a portion of which has been and will continue to be reinvested in consumer-facing initiatives, with expected total charges at the mid-point of the estimated range of $1.2 billion to $1.6 billion.

With a line of sight to additional gross benefits, all business case approvals for the Restructuring Program are still expected to be made by June 30, 2026. This progress reflects disciplined delivery against clearly defined priorities and has supported the Company’s ability to reinvest for growth. The Company expects execution of the PRGP to be substantially complete by the end of fiscal 2027 and affirmed that the vast majority of PRGP’s full run-rate benefits, including its Restructuring Program, are to be achieved during fiscal 2027.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements contained herein, including those relating to our expectations regarding restructuring and other charges, involve risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forward-looking statements include current economic and other conditions in the global marketplace, actions by retailers and consumers, competition, The Estée Lauder Companies’ ability to successfully implement its long-term strategic plan, and those factors described in The Estée Lauder Companies’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025.

About The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. is one of the world’s leading manufacturers, marketers, and sellers of quality skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products, and is a steward of luxury and prestige brands globally. The Company’s products are sold in approximately 150 countries and territories under brand names including: Estée Lauder, Aramis, Clinique, Lab Series, Origins, M·A·C, La Mer, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Aveda, Jo Malone London, Bumble and bumble, Darphin Paris, TOM FORD, Smashbox, AERIN Beauty, Le Labo, Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle, GLAMGLOW, KILIAN PARIS, Too Faced, Dr.Jart+, the DECIEM family of brands, including The Ordinary and NIOD, and BALMAIN Beauty.

About WPP

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit wpp.com.

About WPP Media

WPP Media is WPP’s global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, it brings the best platform, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit wppmedia.com.

 

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Contacts

Investor Relations:

Rainey Mancini

rmancini@estee.com

Media Relations:

Brendan Riley

briley@estee.com