Monday, July 13, 2026

Takeda and the Indonesian Government Announce Landmark Collaboration to Strengthen Healthcare Resilience and Expand Access to Lifesaving Plasma-Derived Medicinal Products

 Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia Grants Plasma Fractionation License, Enabling Takeda to Collect and Fractionate Plasma as Part of Multi-Phased Initiative

Takeda Will Initially Invest up to 30 Million U.S. Dollars to Begin the Establishment of an Ecosystem for Plasma-Derived Medicinal Products, including a pilot of a National Plasma Donation Network

Collaboration Builds on Decades-Long Relationship Between Takeda and Indonesia Focused on Elevating Healthcare Standards for Patients

 


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Takeda (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) and the Indonesian Government (the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industry/BKPM and the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs) today announced a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s plasma ecosystem and supporting more equitable access to lifesaving plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs) in Indonesia and around the world. Marked by a fractionation license granted to Takeda by the Ministry of Health (MoH), the collaboration is a major milestone in advancing Indonesia’s health resilience and biopharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities.


“This initiative reflects Indonesia’s commitment to building strategic healthcare capabilities and ensuring sustainable access to essential and innovative therapies for Indonesian patients,” said Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Ministry of Health, Republic of Indonesia. “By working closely with trusted global partners like Takeda, we can accelerate the development of a more resilient, future-ready healthcare system.”


The vision for this multi-year initiative, the first of its kind in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, is focused on the sustainable collection of high-quality plasma and manufacturing of PDMPs at scale. Building on Takeda’s long-standing presence in Indonesia, the collaboration has the potential to position the country as a regional hub for plasma science, advanced plasma collection and biopharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation.


“This initiative demonstrates Takeda’s commitment to expanding access to PDMPs, advancing healthcare resilience and supporting sustainable health systems,” said Ramy Riad, President, Plasma-Derived Therapies at Takeda. “From the introduction of our first PDMPs in Indonesia earlier this year to our investment in local plasma infrastructure, we are proud to extend our collaboration with Indonesia and leverage our global expertise in plasma science to support Indonesia’s long-term healthcare objectives. Together, we aim to improve standards of care, create highly skilled jobs and bolster long-term supply of lifesaving, life-sustaining therapies for patients in Indonesia and around the world.”


As part of the initial phase of the project, Takeda will invest up to 30 million U.S. dollars in a two-year pilot program to establish plasma donation centers in Indonesia, enabling Takeda and the MoH to evaluate feasibility and refine operational models ahead of a potential scale-up into a national network. These centers will leverage Takeda’s global plasma donation expertise and adhere to stringent international quality and regulatory standards. The initiative is expected to create new employment opportunities, including highly skilled positions for healthcare professionals and laboratory technicians, while supporting workforce training and the transfer of international standard practices.


In parallel, Takeda will assess the feasibility and regulatory requirements for building a state-of-the-art plasma-derived therapy manufacturing facility in Indonesia that could serve both Indonesia and other parts of the world – positioning the country as an important contributor to the global supply chain for advanced healthcare products and technologies.


"This investment represents the type of strategic, long-term investment that Indonesia seeks to attract. Beyond the capital commitment, it brings opportunities for technology transfer, talent development and job creation. The collaboration not only elevates and strengthens Indonesia’s healthcare ecosystem but also supports our ambition to establish Indonesia as a regional hub for advanced life sciences and biopharmaceutical manufacturing,” said Minister of Investment and Downstream Industry / Chairman of BKPM, Rosan P. Roeslani.


Global demand for PDMPs continues to grow, yet many countries across the ASEAN region, including Indonesia, face challenges in ensuring sustainable access to these therapies. Underdiagnosis and limited awareness of conditions that can be addressed by PDMPs also remain key barriers to care. This collaboration is intended to support the reliable supply of plasma and PDMPs for patients domestically, while contributing to a more resilient global plasma ecosystem. By sharing best practices in plasma collection and processing, building local capabilities, raising awareness and investing in workforce training, this initiative aims to further enhance patient care in Indonesia and across the region.


The first plasma donation center is expected to open in 2027, and all locations will be part of Takeda’s BioLife plasma center network. While the feasibility of a manufacturing facility is assessed, plasma collected in Indonesia will be fractionated within Takeda’s existing global manufacturing network, with a commitment to prioritizing Indonesia’s domestic needs for PDMPs, in line with applicable laws and regulations.


About Takeda


Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit www.takeda.com.


In Indonesia, Takeda has contributed to the country's healthcare improvement for more than 50 years, since 1971, covering a broad set of expertise, including oncology, gastroenterology, rare diseases, vaccines, and consumer healthcare. We are dedicated to expanding access to our innovative treatments for more patients in Indonesia, fostering enduring partnerships with diverse stakeholders to enhance patient outcomes and sustain the healthcare system in the long term. For more information, visit https://www.takeda.com/id-id/.


Important Notice


For the purposes of this notice, “press release” means this document, any oral presentation, any question and answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws.


The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, “Takeda” is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.


Forward-Looking Statements


This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takeda’s future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as “targets”, “plans”, “believes”, “hopes”, “continues”, “expects”, “aims”, “intends”, “ensures”, “will”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “projects” or similar expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements: the economic circumstances surrounding Takeda’s global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global healthcare reforms; challenges inherent in new product development, including uncertainty of clinical success and decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; uncertainty of commercial success for new and existing products and business collaborations and ventures; difficulties or delays including with respect to the construction, validation, qualification, scale-up or operation of plasma collection centers or manufacturing facilities; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the impact of health crises, like the novel coronavirus pandemic, on Takeda and its customers and suppliers, including foreign governments in countries in which Takeda operates, or on other facets of its business; the timing and impact of post-merger integration efforts with acquired companies; the ability to divest assets that are not core to Takeda’s operations and the timing of any such divestment(s); and other factors identified in Takeda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takeda’s other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takeda’s website at: https://www.takeda.com/investors/sec-filings-and-security-reports/ or at www.sec.gov. Takeda does not undertake to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results or statements of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast, guarantee or projection of Takeda’s future results.


Medical Information


This press release contains information about products that may not be available in all countries, or may be available under different trademarks, for different indications, in different dosages, or in different strengths. Nothing contained herein should be considered a solicitation, promotion or advertisement for any prescription drugs including the ones under development.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260712698653/en/



Permalink

https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/1307202656199


Contacts

Investor Relations

Christopher O’Reilly

Takeda.ir.contact@takeda.com


Media Relations

Tsuyoshi Tada (Tokyo)

toiawase_kouhou@takeda.co.jp


Kristi Bond (Boston)

Media_Relations@takeda.com


 

Sunday, July 12, 2026

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto Welcomes Over 1 Million Visitors within 9 Months of Opening

KYOTO, Japan - Friday, 10. July 2026

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- teamLab Biovortex Kyoto has welcomed over 1 million visitors as of July 6, 2026, 9 months after its grand opening. (*1)
These visitors arrived from more than 150 countries and regions. International visitors account for approximately 42% of the total. Many of these international visitors travel from distant countries and regions, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Approximately 30% of these international visitors purchase their tickets at least 30 days in advance.
teamLab Biovortex Kyoto is teamLab's largest museum in Japan, with an average visitor stay of over two and a half hours.

*1
    

According to ticket purchase data from the official teamLab Biovortex Kyoto website (survey period: October 7, 2025 – July 6, 2026)

Visitors Comment (Middle East Area / Two Females, 10s)​
“This was our first trip to Japan and our very first time experiencing teamLab's artwork. Within teamLab Biovortex Kyoto, the piece where light forms into lines (*2) was particularly memorable, and its beauty felt completely unreal.”
“We had originally found it on social media while planning our trip and had saved it as a place to visit, but the experience of being fully immersed body and soul went far beyond our expectations.
As we are currently studying art, the gift of the crayons (*3) (received to mark surpassing 1 million visitors) is perfect for us, and we look forward to using them when painting.”

*2
    teamLab, Infinite Crystal World © teamLab

*3
    teamLab, Stratified Color Crayons: BOX set of 5 © teamLab

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto
teamLab Biovortex Kyoto is teamLab's largest museum in Japan, based on the concept of Universe of Existence, Universe of Perception.
Located within walking distance of Kyoto Station and spanning over 10,000 square meters, the museum features more than 50 artworks, including artworks based on the concept of Environmental Phenomena as well as Athletics Forest, a complex, multi-dimensional creative athletic space, and Future Park, a collaborative space for co-creation, which are both part of teamLab’s educational projects.

teamLab Biovortex Kyoto
https://www.teamlab.art/e/kyoto/
#teamLabKyoto
21-5 Higashikujo Higashi-Iwamotocho, Minami-ku, Kyoto
https://maps.app.goo.gl/hykGEnPfHjujfabP7

Hours
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
*Last entry: 7:30 PM
*Subject to change

Closed
Tuesday, July 14
Tuesday, September 01
Tuesday, September 15
*Closed days are subject to change.

Press Kit
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/93lvrprtgnfgv7fetmdkh/AEWRAiT_cvPAO96U6t39MTo?rlkey=y32z92c7awdpeux6i9a5e7atk&st=z7le6598&dl=0

 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260709913938/en/

Permalink
https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/1007202656188

Contacts

Media Inquiries
teamLab
Media Inquiries: https://forms.gle/LnSSKQtgXpSfrB917
E-mail: lab-pr-info@team-lab.com

Friday, July 10, 2026

New Esri Press Book Shows That GIS Can Transform the Entire Campus, Starting at the Classroom

 The Spatial Edge Reveals How Spatial Thinking Drives Innovation, Efficiency, and Collaboration Across Higher Education 


Esri releases The Spatial Edge, a new book demonstrating how GIS technology unifies academic and operational functions across higher education institutions.

The book highlights how universities use spatial thinking to enhance teaching, advance interdisciplinary research, and improve campus planning and operations across departments.

Through real-world case studies, The Spatial Edge shows how GIS strengthens decision-making, connects disciplines, and supports institutions in solving complex campus and community challenges.

Designed for administrators and educators, the guide emphasizes workforce readiness by equipping graduates with in-demand geospatial skills across diverse industries.

 


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Esri has released The Spatial Edge: The Strategic Advantage of GIS Skills Across Higher Education, a practical and accessible guide that demonstrates how geographic information system (GIS) technology can unify campuses academically and operationally.


While GIS is often associated with disciplines such as geography, planning, and environmental studies, The Spatial Edge expands that view through real-world case examples. The book shows how spatial thinking can connect departments; strengthen decision-making; and help institutions address complex challenges across teaching, research, and campus operations.


Designed for administrators, educators, and campus leaders, the guide highlights GIS being used across higher education to:


Enhance teaching and student engagement


Advance interdisciplinary research


Improve campus planning and operations


Strengthen community partnerships


Prepare graduates with in-demand geospatial skills


From the classroom to facilities management, The Spatial Edge illustrates how taking a geographic approach creates shared understanding and drives better outcomes across institutions.


This book demonstrates that GIS can bring campuses together by bridging disciplines, improving operations, and helping higher education organizations respond proactively to today’s challenges.


About the Authors:


Thomas Fisher is director of the Minnesota Design Center and Dayton Hudson Chair in Urban Design. A widely published author and educator, he has written extensively on design, practice, and ethics.


Len Kne is director of the U-Spatial Center at the University of Minnesota, supporting geospatial work across more than 150 departments. He brings deep experience in GIS across academia, government, and industry.


The Spatial Edge: The Strategic Advantage of GIS Skills Across Higher Education is available in paperback (ISBN: 9781589488953, US$24.99), and as an ebook (ISBN: 9781589488977, US$24.99). This book can be obtained from most online retailers worldwide. Interested retailers can contact Esri Press book distributor Ingram Publisher Services.


About Esri


Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in hundreds of thousands of organizations globally, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial technology and analytics, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions that leverage a geographic approach to solving some of the world’s most complex problems by placing them in the crucial context of location. Visit us at esri.com.


Copyright © 2026 Esri. All rights reserved. Esri, the Esri Globe and Frame logos, The Science of Where, esri.com, and @esri.com are trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of Esri in the United States, the European Union, or certain other jurisdictions. Other companies and products or services mentioned herein may be trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of their respective mark owners.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260708293015/en/



Permalink

https://aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656153


Contacts

media.help@esri.com


 

Elliptic Announces Circle’s Participation in Agentic Design Partner Program

 Following investment from Circle Ventures, the corporate venture arm of Circle


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Elliptic, the global leader in digital asset intelligence, today announced that an affiliate of Circle Internet Group, Inc. (‘Circle’) (NYSE:CRCL) has joined its Agentic Design Partner Program, bringing together infrastructure providers, compliance teams, and technology leaders to help shape compliance solutions for autonomous, AI-driven financial activity.

This momentum follows an investment from Circle Ventures, the corporate venture arm of Circle, and builds on a longstanding collaboration between the companies. Circle has been an Elliptic customer for multiple years and has expanded its use of Elliptic’s compliance capabilities across a range of digital asset initiatives.

As stablecoins, tokenized assets, and AI-powered applications become increasingly integrated into financial services, new compliance challenges are emerging. Elliptic’s agentic compliance layer addresses these challenges by combining unique datasets, a scalable query platform and a set of agents that can detect and process alerts at the speed of AI. These capabilities are designed to help organizations maintain auditable, compliance-ready oversight as autonomous systems increasingly participate in financial activity.

The Agentic Design Partner Program reflects how Elliptic builds agentic compliance solutions. Elliptic believes agentic AI in regulated industries cannot be designed in isolation and must be built continuously with the compliance teams who operate it because the transaction patterns, behavioral signals and failure modes of autonomous agents have no equivalent in human-paced finance. Agentic Design partners can contribute real alert volumes, live transaction data and production-scale edge cases. In return, they help shape Elliptic's roadmap, get first access to new capabilities and help define the standard before the rest of the market catches up.

Circle’s participation in the Agentic Design Partner Program provides Elliptic with operational insights and real-world feedback as it develops solutions for emerging onchain financial workflows.

“As autonomous systems increasingly participate in financial activity, compliance and risk management must evolve alongside them. We’re excited to support Elliptic as they develop infrastructure designed to help enterprises navigate these emerging challenges and build more confidently in an increasingly autonomous onchain economy.” - Brian Schultz, Vice President of Corporate Development and Ventures at Circle.

"The compliance challenge for agentic on-chain finance is not theoretical. It is being solved right now, by the teams building the infrastructure. Other vendors in this space are now claiming agentic compliance. The difference is where you build it. We are building with Circle from inside the infrastructure agents will run on, not shipping a product from the outside and hoping it fits. Circle’s participation in our Agentic Design Partner Program and Circle Ventures’ investment reinforce the importance of building agentic compliance infrastructure from within the systems and workflows these applications will rely on." Simone Maini, CEO, Elliptic


About Elliptic

Elliptic is the leader in digital asset decisioning, we have built the most comprehensive platform for efficiently extracting cryptoasset data and intelligence across blockchains with the greatest accuracy.

Our platform’s unrivalled uptime, scalability, depth and breadth of our data and intelligence means exacting organizations choose Elliptic for their compliance, risk management, intelligence operations and blockchain infrastructure needs.

Founded in 2013, Elliptic is headquartered in London with offices in New York, Washington D.C., Miami, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. To learn more, visit www.elliptic.co and follow us on LinkedIn and X.


 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260709780814/en/



Permalink

https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656163


Contacts

Media Contact

Rachel Matthews

Global Marketing and Communications Director, Elliptic

rachel.matthews@elliptic.co

FIFA World Cup™ Fans Embrace Referee View as Lenovo AI Brings Viewers Closer to the Pitch

 91% of fans say the new broadcast technology has made the FIFA World Cup 2026™ viewing experience more dynamic


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- New international research from Lenovo reveals that technological advancements are fundamentally changing how fans experience the FIFA World Cup 2026™, making viewers feel closer to the action than ever before.


According to a survey of football fans across Australia, Canada, India, U.K., U.S., 87% say technology is improving their viewing experience, and 84% report the close-to-action camera perspectives help them feel like they're right there on the pitch.


Accelerating this unprecedented view of the game is Referee View, powered by Lenovo AI that gives viewers a first-person look at the match from the referee’s point of view.


The research further found:


Over three-quarters (76%) of FIFA World Cup™ viewers have seen or heard about Referee View, and 91% say the close-to-action perspective is appealing.


88% say that smooth, stable footage is an important part of viewing sports footage, and nearly all fans (98%) say clear picture quality has been important when watching this FIFA World Cup™.


Fans are highly interested in the future of close-to-the-action viewing, with 91% interested in seeing more technology that creates immersive or close-to-action live sports experiences.


“The introduction of Referee View with Lenovo AI image stabilization has further improved the broadcast experience. Getting a steady, first-person view of critical field decisions brings an incredible level of drama and transparency to the screen,” said a Female, Gen X survey respondent based in India.


AI Bringing Fans Onto the Pitch


Referee View, which has featured on average three times per match across the tournament in over 220 territories worldwide according to preliminary FIFA data, gives FIFA World Cup™ viewers a first-person perspective from the center of the action through a lightweight camera mounted on the match official. While the raw footage is fast-moving and sometimes unstable, Lenovo's AI-powered video analytics platform automatically transforms it into smooth, broadcast-quality video in real time.


The platform reduces camera jitter by up to 60%, creating a stable viewing experience while preserving the speed and intensity of the match.


"Referee View is giving fans a perspective that's never before been possible, just in time for the world's biggest sporting event," said Art Hu, Chief Information Officer, Lenovo and Chief Technology & Delivery Officer, Solutions and Services Group. "By combining AI with advanced video analytics, we're transforming fast-moving footage into a seamless broadcast experience. Building on Lenovo's work in F1, where cameras operate in some of sport's toughest conditions, we're applying that expertise at the World Cup to help make a referee's point of view broadcast-ready in real time."


The enthusiasm for this technology extends beyond fans. Broadcasters are embracing Referee View to deliver moments that matter most to their viewers — from goals to player interactions, walkouts and other high-intensity moments — bringing audiences into the center of the action.


As FIFA's Official Technology Partner, Lenovo is delivering AI-powered innovations across the tournament that support fans, players, coaches and tournament operations. In addition to Referee View, these include AI-enabled 3D player avatars, the FIFA AI Pro platform and an intelligent command center.


Learn more about Referee View and AI innovation at the FIFA World Cup™ on Lenovo StoryHub and visit Lenovo.com/FIFA to explore all of the technology behind the tournament.


About Lenovo


Lenovo is a US$83 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #196 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Guided by its vision of “Smarter Technology for All”, Lenovo is executing a Hybrid AI strategy that spans Personal AI – one personal AI, multiple devices; and Enterprise AI – helping customers turn data into insights and value. This strategy is delivered through the Group’s commitment to world-class innovation and a full-stack AI portfolio, including devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets, accessories), infrastructure solutions (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), as well as software, solutions, and services. With a global footprint spanning more than 20 research and development locations and a global supply chain that includes more than 30 manufacturing sites across 10 markets, Lenovo is widely recognized for its operational excellence. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). Learn more at www.lenovo.com and follow the latest news in our newsroom.


About the study


Online survey conducted June 24–27, 2026, among 2,514 adults 18+ across the U.S. (n=502), U.K. (n=500), Canada (n=501), India (n=508) and Australia (n=503) who have watched this year’s World Cup, including match coverage, highlights, clips, recaps or video content. Overall margin of error is +/- 2 percentage points at the 95% confidence level; market-level margins are higher.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260708777242/en/



Permalink

https://aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656156


Contacts

Jack Tarrant

jtarrant@lenovo.com


 

Bitget Wallet Hits 100M Users — and Payments Just Overtook Trading

 

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador - Tuesday, 07. July 2026

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget Wallet, a self-custodial crypto wallet for everyday finance, announced it has surpassed 100 million users globally, and that for the first time in the platform's history, daily payment users now outnumber traders. More than half of those users are based in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where people are increasingly using crypto wallets as global stablecoin accounts to save, get paid, and spend locally, rather than to trade.

That shift shows up in the data. Bitget Wallet Cards issued have surpassed 150,000 worldwide, available across 50+ markets and spendable at 150M+ merchants. Global card spending reached $31M in the first half of 2026, a 191% increase from H2 2025. In emerging markets specifically, card spend grew by 416% in the same period, showing that financial habits are forming faster in these regions than the global average. Globally, card users averaged 10 payments per month at an average transaction size of $28, consistent with everyday purchases at a frequency that reflects payment as routine. Active cardholders in the US, Europe, and Asia average between 10 and 14 swipes a month — on par with how often consumers use a debit card — while emerging markets like LatAm are catching up fast from a lower base.

The conditions driving it are structural, and specific. In Nigeria, the official naira lost over 40% of its value against the dollar in 2024; in Argentina, the peso lost a comparable share. Conventional remittance corridors into these markets still charge 5–8% per transfer on average. At the same time, both countries are among Bitget Wallet's fastest-growing markets — a direct connection between local currency instability and demand for a stable, low-cost, borderless account. In Southeast Asia and South Asia, the platform's two largest user regions, mobile-first payment infrastructure already exists; Bitget Wallet's QR payments and bank transfer rails plug into habits that are already formed.

"The next wave of users in these markets doesn't think of this as crypto," said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. "They have a balance in dollars, they spend it, they get paid into it, and they move it across borders. The account just happens to be onchain. What the data is showing us is that this is becoming routine, and what starts as routine in these markets tends to define what global finance looks like next." In a COO letter published, Kan reflects on the turning points that shaped the platform over the past eight years.

Eight years ago, Bitget Wallet launched as a trading tool for crypto natives. In the last two years, the product was substantially rebuilt around a different use case: the infrastructure that today spans card issuance across 50+ markets, QR payment rails across Southeast Asia and LatAm, and direct bank integrations serving users in Nigeria, Mexico, and Bangladesh didn't exist at the last major milestone. The Onchain Payments Matrix, the settlement infrastructure behind these flows, now spans 80+ payment rails across 100+ currencies and has settled more than $177 billion in stablecoin volume.

More insights and the full data report can be found on the Bitget Wallet blog.

About Bitget Wallet
Bitget Wallet is a self-custodial crypto wallet built for everyday finance. Since 2018, it has given 100M+ users worldwide an onchain account to save, spend, and invest in crypto, supporting 1M+ tokens across 130+ blockchains, 100+ fiat currencies, Visa/Mastercard crypto cards, and localized payment methods. Its security is backed by industry-standard key encryption, a real-time risk engine, independent audits, and a US$300M+ user protection fund. In 2022, Bitget Wallet raised a US$100M funding round led by Dragonfly. For media information, visit web3.bitget.com.

X | Telegram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook
For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Cryptocurrencies are subject to high market risk and volatility. No profit is guaranteed. You are strongly advised to conduct own research before investing at your own discretion. Nothing on this page shall be construed as financial advice or solicitation. Past performance does not indicate future results.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c5f4bdd-196f-4cdb-b17b-fb9a8ed0e5bf

Bitget Upgrades Institutional Trading Framework to Power the Next Phase of Multi-Asset Markets

 

VICTORIA, Seychelles, - Tuesday, 07. July 2026

 

 

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has introduced an upgraded institutional pricing framework for its PRO and Liquidity Incentive Programs, enhancing trading costs, liquidity incentives, and market structure across crypto and traditional financial markets. Effective June 30, the update introduces a more sophisticated fee model designed to better support institutional traders, market makers, and liquidity providers participating across an increasingly diverse range of assets.

As institutional participation expands beyond major crypto into tokenized real world assets, exchanges are increasingly required to support different liquidity dynamics across different markets. Bitget's latest upgrade reflects this evolution through a more granular pricing structure that aligns incentives with the characteristics of each market while improving execution quality across the platform.

"Markets are becoming increasingly connected, and institutions are adapting to that reality," said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. "They're focused on where they can deploy capital most efficiently, not whether an opportunity sits in crypto or traditional finance. Our job is to build the infrastructure that makes moving between those markets feel seamless."

A central feature of the upgrade is a revised market grouping framework. In spot markets, trading pairs are divided into two groups: Group A for top trading pairs such as BTCUSDT, XAUTUSDT, SOLUSDT, and other major assets, and Group B for all other spot trading pairs, including newly listed spot pairs. In futures markets, the structure expands to three groups: Group A for top crypto futures pairs, Group B for other crypto futures pairs and newly listed crypto futures, and Group C for TradFi futures, covering stock, precious metal, commodity, and index futures.

For institutional traders, the update introduces tiered taker pricing within the Bitget PRO program, creating a more transparent cost structure based on trading activity. For liquidity providers, Bitget has strengthened incentives for long-tail markets by increasing spot maker rebates on selected trading pairs fr0m 1.2 basis points to 1.5 basis points, while futures maker rebates on selected long-tail contracts have increased fr0m 0.8 basis points to 1.0 basis point. The platform also maintains its industry-leading 0.65 basis point taker fee for TradFi futures, including tokenized stock, commodity, and precious metal contracts.

Beyond pricing, the revised framework introduces updated market-making assessment methodologies and weighted liquidity metrics that place greater emphasis on supporting emerging markets while maintaining deep liquidity across flagship assets. The result is a more balanced incentive structure that rewards meaningful liquidity contributions across the full breadth of Bitget's multi-asset ecosystem.

The update builds on Bitget's continued investment in institutional infrastructure following recent expansions across tokenized stocks and equity offerings. As the Universal Exchange continues bringing together crypto, tokenized assets, and traditional financial markets within a single trading environment, Bitget is developing the execution, liquidity and pricing infrastructure required to support the next generation of institutional trading.

For more information and the full list of pairs, visit here.

About Bitget

Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 500+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships such as MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry's lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

For more information, visit: Website | X | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com 

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3e3be216-3591-4ebf-bae3-a484c5332232

Changan accueille des représentants des médias et des concessionnaires sud-africains en Chine pour une visite immersive de ses sites de production et de R&D

 

JOHANNESBURG, Afrique du Sud - mercredi, 08. juillet 2026

 

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dans le cadre de son « Africa Media China Tour », Changan Automobile a accueilli 10 représentants majeurs des médias et des concessionnaires sud-africains dans ses installations mondiales de R&D et de fabrication intelligente en Chine. Ce programme a permis de découvrir en détail les capacités de Changan en matière d’innovation, de fabrication intelligente, de sécurité automobile et de technologies liées aux énergies nouvelles, renforçant ainsi la compréhension internationale de la puissance technologique de la marque et de sa vision à long terme.

Lors de l’accueil de la délégation, M. Yang Mingjie a souligné l’importance stratégique de la région Moyen-Orient et Afrique dans la feuille de route de développement mondial de Changan.

« L’Afrique du Sud est l’un des principaux marchés stratégiques de Changan en Afrique, et nous nous engageons à établir des partenariats à long terme avec les clients, les médias et les concessionnaires locaux. Grâce à cette visite, nous espérons que nos invités pourront découvrir par eux-mêmes les capacités technologiques de Changan, la puissance de son système de fabrication intelligente, ainsi que son engagement indéfectible en faveur de la qualité et de la sécurité. »
— Yang Mingjie, directeur général adjoint de la division Moyen-Orient et Afrique de Changan Automobile

Il a ajouté que Changan accélérait son développement local au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique en introduisant une gamme plus large de véhicules intelligents et à énergies nouvelles, tout en renforçant continuellement ses produits, ses services et l’expérience client à l’échelle locale.

La délégation a commencé sa visite par l’usine de fabrication n° 2 de Changan, où elle a découvert les ateliers d’emboutissage, de soudage et d’assemblage final. En observant ces processus de production hautement automatisés et numérisés, les hôtes ont pu se faire une idée précise des capacités de fabrication intelligente de Changan, de son efficacité opérationnelle et de son système de gestion de la qualité intégré à l’échelle mondiale.

Le groupe s’est ensuite rendu au parc technologique de Changan, qui abrite le laboratoire intelligent SDA, le centre mondial de R&D et le laboratoire d’essais de collision, où il a assisté à un crash-test complet. Les procédures de test rigoureuses ont mis en lumière l’engagement de longue date de Changan en faveur d’une ingénierie axée sur la sécurité, ainsi que ses investissements continus visant à proposer des solutions de mobilité plus sûres et de meilleure qualité à ses clients à travers le monde.

Au cours de la séance d’essais routiers, les participants ont pu tester plusieurs modèles internationaux. Qu’il s’agisse de capacités tout-terrain, de mobilité urbaine ou de performances de conduite électrique, les véhicules ont démontré la diversité de la gamme de produits et la puissance de l’ingénierie de Changan. Les hôtes ont salué la dynamique de conduite, le confort et la polyvalence de ces modèles dans des conditions de route variées, témoignant de leur adéquation aux divers marchés mondiaux.

À l’issue de l’essai routier, Brian Kayavu a partagé ses impressions :

« Ce que je peux dire de Changan, c’est que ses produits et ses installations sont de premier ordre. Le centre d’essais, où sont validés tous les nouveaux véhicules, est très impressionnant, et le centre technologique que nous avons visité est l’un des meilleurs, sinon le meilleur au monde. »
— Brian Kayavu, journaliste du magazine automobile sud-africain Driven

Il a ajouté que de nombreux consommateurs étrangers ne mesuraient peut-être pas encore l’ampleur de la coopération internationale et de l’héritage technologique de Changan. Il s’est dit confiant quant au développement futur de la marque et s’est réjoui à l’idée de voir arriver davantage de produits Changan sur le marché sud-africain.

Lors de l’événement, le Dr Yan Bowen, responsable R&D en technologies hybrides chez Changan Automobile, a présenté un exposé technique des technologies hybrides développées en interne par l’entreprise, en mettant en lumière les récentes avancées en matière d’efficacité des systèmes, de fiabilité et d’innovation au cœur du groupe motopropulseur. Cette session a souligné l’engagement continu de Changan à faire progresser les technologies d’électrification pour les marchés mondiaux.

Chelsea Pinto a déclaré que cette visite lui avait permis de découvrir concrètement les capacités mondiales de R&D de Changan, son système de fabrication intelligent et son futur portefeuille de produits.

« Cette visite à Chongqing a été une expérience incroyable. Nous avons pu découvrir les sites de production et les centres R&D de Changan, ce qui nous a permis de mieux comprendre les technologies et les innovations de la marque. De nombreux consommateurs sud-africains ne sont pas encore pleinement conscients des remarquables avancées technologiques et de la portée mondiale de Changan. »
— Chelsea Pinto, directrice générale du marketing et des produits chez Changan Afrique du Sud

Elle a ajouté que la future gamme de produits suscitait une grande confiance au sein de l’équipe sud-africaine.

L’« Africa Media China Tour » a renforcé les liens entre Changan Automobile et ses partenaires internationaux, tout en mettant en avant les atouts majeurs de l’entreprise en matière de R&D mondiale, de fabrication intelligente, de sécurité des véhicules et de technologies liées aux énergies nouvelles. À l’avenir, Changan entend poursuivre ses efforts d’innovation technologique tout en privilégiant un développement adapté aux spécificités locales afin d’offrir des solutions de mobilité plus intelligentes, plus sûres et plus durables à la région Moyen-Orient et Afrique.

Contact :
Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd.
E-mail : global@changan.com.cn

Les photos annexées au présent communiqué sont disponibles aux adresses suivantes :

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/525907ba-675f-44ed-8d64-af7374b55042

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ee9a62cb-b69e-4161-a6c1-06f75e7d0790

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3280757-dce2-4a5a-b5c1-838b37e22206

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6f7ab63d-f7c2-4933-8658-8ffccdfb06af

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/80056f74-bbf7-40ce-bda6-2eba2fb75e59

Changan Welcomes South African Media and Dealers to China for an Immersive R&D and Manufacturing Tour

 

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa - Monday, 06. July 2026

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Changan Automobile recently hosted its Africa Media China Tour, welcoming 10 key South African media representatives and dealers to its global R&D and intelligent manufacturing facilities in China. The program provided an in-depth look at Changan's capabilities in innovation, intelligent manufacturing, vehicle safety and new energy technologies, further strengthening international understanding of the brand's technological strength and long-term development vision.

Welcoming the delegation, MR.Yang Mingjie emphasized the strategic importance of the Middle East and Africa region in Changan's global development roadmap.

"South Africa is one of Changan's key strategic markets in Africa, and we are committed to building long-term partnerships with local customers, media and dealer partners. Through this visit, we hope our guests can experience firsthand Changan's technological capabilities, intelligent manufacturing strength and unwavering commitment to quality and safety."
— Yang Mingjie, Deputy General Manager, Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa Business Unit

He added that Changan is accelerating its localized development across the Middle East and Africa by introducing a broader portfolio of intelligent and new energy vehicles while continuously strengthening localized products, services and customer experience.

The delegation began its visit at Changan's No.2 Manufacturing Plant, touring the stamping, welding and final assembly workshops. Witnessing highly automated and digitalized production processes firsthand, guests gained a comprehensive understanding of Changan's intelligent manufacturing capabilities, operational efficiency and globally integrated quality management system.

The group then visited Changan's Technology Park, including the SDA Intelligent Laboratory, Global R&D Center and Crash Test Laboratory, where they observed a full vehicle crash test. The rigorous testing procedures highlighted Changan's long-standing commitment to safety-driven engineering and its continuous investment in delivering safer, higher-quality mobility solutions for global customers.

During the vehicle test drive session, participants experienced several global models, from off-road capability and urban mobility to electrified driving performance, the vehicles demonstrated Changan's diversified product portfolio and engineering strengths. Guests spoke highly of the models' driving dynamics, comfort and adaptability across a wide range of road conditions, reflecting their suitability for diverse global markets.

Brian Kayavu, shared his impressions after the test drive:

"What I can say about Changan is that its products and facilities are top-notch. The testing center, where all the new vehicles are validated, is highly impressive, and the technology center we visited is one of the best—if not the best—in the world."
— Brian Kayavu, Journalist at South African automotive magazine Driven

Brian added that many overseas consumers may not yet realize the breadth of Changan's global cooperation and technological heritage. He expressed confidence in the brand's future development and looked forward to seeing more Changan products introduced to the South African market.

During the event, Dr. Yan Bowen, Head of HEV Technology R&D at Changan Automobile, delivered a technical presentation on the company's self-developed hybrid technologies, highlighting recent achievements in system efficiency, reliability and core powertrain innovation. The session underscored Changan's ongoing commitment to advancing electrification technologies for global markets.

Chelsea Pinto said the visit provided valuable first-hand insights into Changan's global R&D capabilities, intelligent manufacturing system and future product portfolio.

"Visiting Chongqing has been an incredible experience. We toured Changan's manufacturing facilities and R&D centers, gaining a much deeper understanding of the technologies and innovations behind the brand. Many South African consumers are not yet fully aware of Changan's remarkable technological development and global capabilities."
— Chelsea Pinto, General Manager of Marketing and Products at Changan South Africa

She added that the upcoming product lineup has generated strong confidence within the South African team.

The Africa Media China Tour further strengthened engagement between Changan Automobile and overseas partners, while showcasing the company's core strengths in global R&D, intelligent manufacturing, vehicle safety and new energy technologies. Looking ahead, Changan will continue to advance technology innovation alongside localized development, delivering smarter, safer and more sustainable mobility solutions to MEA region.

Contact information:
Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd.
E-mail: global@changan.com.cn

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/525907ba-675f-44ed-8d64-af7374b55042

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ee9a62cb-b69e-4161-a6c1-06f75e7d0790

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3280757-dce2-4a5a-b5c1-838b37e22206

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6f7ab63d-f7c2-4933-8658-8ffccdfb06af

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/80056f74-bbf7-40ce-bda6-2eba2fb75e59

Esri and Global Partners Release HydroSHEDS v2 for the Americas


 REDLANDS, Calif. - 

Next-Generation Hydrographic Framework Delivers Unprecedented Detail for Watershed and River Network Analysis


Esri and its global partners have released HydroSHEDS v2, providing high-resolution hydrographic data for North, Central, and South America.

Developed with World Wildlife Fund in the US, McGill University and Confluvio Consulting in Canada, and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the initiative reflects global collaboration in hydrologic science and geospatial technology.

HydroSHEDS v2 leverages TanDEM-X elevation data and Arc Hydro workflows to deliver more accurate drainage networks, watershed boundaries, and hydrologic connectivity.

The datasets support applications such as flood risk assessments, climate resilience studies, systematic conservation planning, water resource management, and environmental decision-making.

HydroSHEDS v2 datasets are available through ArcGIS Living Atlas, with additional global releases planned as part of a phased rollout.

 


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Esri has made HydroSHEDS v2 publicly available for the first time. Confluvio Consulting led the development of the HydroSHEDS v2 foundational dataset in partnership with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Esri, whose geographic information system (GIS) technology will provide users with the data. A major innovation in global hydrographic capabilities, this hydrographic framework is the result of a collaboration initiated by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and McGill University.


HydroSHEDS v2 will support a broad range of applications, including flood risk assessments, freshwater ecosystem conservation, infrastructure planning, water resource management, environmental modeling, scientific research, and operational decision-making.


The initial release of HydroSHEDS v2 provides comprehensive hydrographic coverage for North, Central, and South America, and marks the beginning of a phased global rollout. By making these datasets available through ArcGIS Living Atlas, Esri is enabling GIS professionals, scientists, environmental organizations, and water resource managers to access more detailed and consistent hydrographic information for analysis and decision-making.


"HydroSHEDS v2 represents a major milestone in hydrographic data development and international collaboration," said Sean Breyer, director for ArcGIS Living Atlas. "By combining high-resolution elevation data, Arc Hydro processing capabilities, and the accessibility of ArcGIS Living Atlas, we are helping researchers, governments, NGOs [nongovernmental organizations], and organizations better understand and manage water resources across the Americas and eventually around the world."


"HydroSHEDS v2 provides an important new foundation for hydrologic science, conservation planning, and water resource management," said Bernhard Lehner, associate professor at McGill University and Confluvio cofounder. "Making these datasets openly available through ArcGIS Living Atlas will accelerate innovation and support better decision-making for freshwater systems worldwide."


HydroSHEDS has long served as one of the world's most widely used hydrographic frameworks. This new version represents a significant advancement, leveraging the high-resolution TanDEM-X global elevation model from DLR and advanced processing workflows. HydroSHEDS v2 enables users to create more accurate, comprehensive, and globally consistent representations of Earth's drainage systems.


To learn more about HydroSHEDS v2 and access datasets, visit https://livingatlas.arcgis.com or https://www.hydrosheds.org.


About Esri


Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in hundreds of thousands of organizations globally, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial technology and analytics, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions that leverage a geographic approach to solving some of the world's most complex problems by placing them in the crucial context of location. Visit us at esri.com.


Copyright © 2026 Esri. All rights reserved. Esri, the Esri Globe logo, ArcGIS, The Science of Where, esri.com, and @esri.com are trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of Esri in the United States, the European Union, or certain other jurisdictions. Other companies and products or services mentioned herein may be trademarks, service marks, or registered marks of their respective mark owners.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260709152402/en/



Permalink

https://aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656161


Contacts

media.help@esri.com

ROYC and PwC Sweden Collaborate to Digitalize Private Equity Structuring & Fund Operations

 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- ROYC today announces a strategic collaboration with PwC Sweden to accelerate the digitalization of the GP value chain. The partnership brings together PwC Sweden's market-leading expertise in fund formation and structuring with ROYC’s platform capabilities, with the shared aim of compressing time-to-market, eliminating manual friction in early-phase workflows, and improving the client experience across the full fund lifecycle for fund managers operating across any jurisdiction.


"Digitalization of fund operations is overdue. We work alongside fund managers on structuring decisions, regulatory requirements, and operational complexity every day, and the inefficiencies in the early phase are real and costly. What excites me about this collaboration is the practical ambition behind it: taking the knowledge we apply manually today and making it available through a platform that GPs can use from day one. Working directly with the ROYC team in Stockholm makes iteration fast, and the application areas extend well beyond Sweden."


Femke van der Zeijden — Partner, PwC Sweden


PwC holds a leading position in private equity structuring and fund formation, advising on approximately 40% of the market for fund formation and related structures globally. This in-depth know-how will now directly impact how ROYC builds out features. Femke van der Zeijden, Partner at PwC Sweden, will drive the collaboration from PwC Sweden’s side, working in close collaboration with ROYC’s platform development team in Stockholm. The workflows being digitalized are jurisdiction-agnostic, built to serve fund managers wherever they operate.


The focus for the collaboration is the early GP value chain: from the decision to raise a fund, through legal entity formation and structuring, to fund launch, ongoing management, and wind-down. These are the workflows where manual processes, disconnected data, and fragmented handoffs currently cost fund managers significant time, often before the first LP is even onboarded. By translating PwC’s structuring knowledge into scalable digital workflows, ROYC aims to make fund operations genuinely faster, more structured, and more competitive across jurisdictions.


"Private equity fund operations are still largely running on emails, PDFs, and institutional memory. That is not sustainable at scale. The early phase of the GP value chain, from structuring decisions through to fund launch, is where the most time is lost and where digitalization can make the biggest difference. PwC’s fund formation and structuring team has a very deep practitioner and that expertise will help ROYC continue to build-out our market leading platform solution. This will offer GPs something genuinely different: not just software, but software shaped by the people who understand how funds actually get built."


Mathias Leijon — CEO & Co-founder, ROYC


About ROYC


ROYC is a private equity operations platform built to support GPs from fund set-up through wind-down. The platform covers fund launch, legal entity management, LP onboarding, KYC, capital calls, distributions, shadow accounting, and reporting, designed to replace the manual workflows and disconnected systems that slow down fund managers at every stage of the fund lifecycle. ROYC is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.


About PwC


PwC is one of the world’s leading professional services networks, with capabilities across audit, tax, and advisory. PwC’s private equity practice advises fund managers globally on tax strategy, regulatory compliance, and operational structuring, covering fund formation and related structures across jurisdictions worldwide.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260709036399/en/



Permalink

https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656160


Contacts

For additional information or interview requests:

Mathias Leijon

Founder and President, ROYC

mathias.leijon@roycgroup.com


 

Russell Investments Announces New Long-Term Owners

 NEW YORK & SEATTLE - Thursday, 09. July 2026



An investor consortium led by B Capital and including CalPERS will provide long-term capital to expand Russell Investments’ client capabilities and accelerate innovation


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Russell Investments, the global investment solutions provider, today announced that an investor consortium (the “Investor Consortium”) led by B Capital, a global multi-stage investment firm, and including California Public Employees' Retirement System ("CalPERS"), has agreed to acquire the firm from TA Associates (“TA”) and Reverence Capital Partners (“RCP”). The transaction comes as Russell Investments marks over $416 billion in global assets under management (AUM) and has experienced more than 15% organic growth over the past two years.


Russell Investments has been a trusted, independent partner to its clients for over 90 years. Its open-architecture model delivers portfolio solutions that source from the full landscape of the asset management industry across public and private markets. With a shared vision for the company’s next phase of growth, the new owners are bringing to Russell Investments long-term capital, advanced technology expertise, and experience scaling next-generation businesses in transforming industries.


“Helping people build long-term financial security is one of the defining challenges of our time," said Zach Buchwald, CEO of Russell Investments. "We're excited to partner with these world-class investors because we share a long-term view of investing and the belief that it can meaningfully improve people’s lives. Together, alongside our clients, we'll build a future where more people have access to the expertise and investment solutions they need to achieve their goals."


With the backing of the Investor Consortium, Russell Investments plans to extend its open architecture approach to more investors through technology, greater customization, analytics, and increased access. The firm will continue investing in the expertise and capabilities that seek to deliver best-in-breed portfolios at scale. It also sees significant runway across its key businesses: institutional outsourcing, portfolio implementation, personalized solutions and model portfolios, tax-managed investing, and self-directed investing through a multi-manager framework.


“As global investors in transformative technologies, we firmly believe the future of asset management lies at the intersection of investment expertise, personalized client service, and innovation,” said Eduardo Saverin and Raj Ganguly, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of B Capital. “From OCIO and pension consulting to innovative indexes and smart beta, Russell Investments has always been a trailblazing firm built on client trust. We look forward to partnering with Zach and the entire team to bring even more advanced technology and relationship-focused investing to people around the world.”


CalPERS’ Deputy Chief Investment Officer Anton Orlich said: “Russell Investments has built a trusted global franchise grounded in investment excellence and client service. We believe the partnership and shared vision of Russell Investments and the Investor Consortium creates a compelling opportunity to build a next-generation asset manager. We look forward to supporting the business as it expands access to innovative investment solutions, accelerates growth, and helps shape the future of investing.”


Following transaction close, Russell Investments will continue to operate independently under its existing leadership team, led by Chairman and CEO Zach Buchwald, and President and Chief Investment Officer Kate El-Hillow. The firm’s mission, investment professionals, and client teams will remain unchanged.


For TA and RCP, the transaction marks the successful conclusion of their investment in Russell Investments. Since partnering in 2016, TA, RCP, and Russell Investments have worked together to drive product innovation, invest in management talent, and accelerate the firm’s growth trajectory. For the past two years, the firm has delivered strong organic growth and outpaced its publicly traded asset management competitors.


"Russell Investments is an exceptional company with world-class talent and outstanding business performance. We're proud of what this team has built, and we're excited for its future," said Todd Crockett, Managing Director, TA, and Milton Berlinski, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, RCP.


The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.


Jefferies LLC served as sole financial advisor to B Capital, and Ropes & Gray LLP served as legal counsel. Moelis & Company LLC served as lead financial advisor and BofA Securities served as financial advisor to Russell Investments, with Goodwin Procter LLP serving as legal counsel.


Forward-Looking Statements


This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding the proposed transaction described herein, including statements regarding its anticipated timing and completion; the strategic, operational, and financial benefits expected to result from the transaction; the plans, expectations, and intentions of Russell Investments, the Investor Consortium, B Capital, CalPERS, TA, and RCP with respect to Russell Investments’ business strategy, growth, technology investments, and client offerings following the transaction; and statements regarding the continuity of Russell Investments’ leadership, mission, and team. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “sees,” “continues,” and similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words.


These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections about the parties’ businesses and the industries in which they operate, and are not guarantees of future performance. They are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied, including as a result of: the possibility that the transaction is not completed on the terms or timeline currently anticipated, or at all; the risk that required regulatory approvals or other customary closing conditions, including any required client, fund, or other third-party consents, are not obtained or satisfied; the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transaction on Russell Investments’ relationships with clients, employees, and business partners; the ability of the parties to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction; competitive conditions in the asset management and investment solutions industries; and general economic, market, regulatory, and geopolitical conditions.


Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. None of Russell Investments, the Investor Consortium, B Capital, CalPERS, TA, or RCP undertakes any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.


Additional Notice


This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any security, nor does it constitute investment, legal, tax, or other advice. Completion of the transaction remains subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals, and there can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed on the terms described herein, or at all.


About Russell Investments


Russell Investments is a leading global investment solutions partner providing a wide range of investment capabilities to institutional investors, financial intermediaries, and individual investors around the world. Since 1936, Russell Investments has been building a legacy of continuous innovation to deliver exceptional value to clients, working every day to improve people’s financial security. The firm has $416 billion in assets under management (as of 06/30/2026) for clients in 31 countries. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Russell Investments has offices in 17 cities around the world.


About B Capital


B Capital is a multi-stage global investment firm that partners with extraordinary entrepreneurs to shape the future through technology. With more than $12 billion in assets under management across multiple funds, the firm focuses on seed to late-stage venture growth investments, primarily in the Technology, Healthcare and Energy sectors. Founded in 2015, B Capital leverages an integrated team across nine locations in the US and Asia, as well as a strategic partnership with BCG, to provide the value-added support entrepreneurs need to scale fast and efficiently, expand into new markets and build exceptional companies. Select investments include Perplexity (AI-powered search and answer engine), Precision Neuroscience (minimally invasive brain-computer interface technology), Axiom (AI-powered math reasoning platform) and Fervo Energy (next-generation geothermal power). For more information, click here.


About CalPERS


CalPERS is the largest defined-benefit public pension in the U.S., with 2.4 million members. Since 1932, CalPERS has provided retirement security for state, school, and public agency employees who invest their life’s work in public service. In 1962, CalPERS expanded its services to include health benefits and now offers quality health plan coverage for more than 1.5 million members and their families.


About TA Associates


TA Associates is a leading global private equity firm focused on scaling growth in profitable companies. Since 1968, TA has invested in more than 560 companies across its core sectors, including technology, business services, financial services, and healthcare. Leveraging its deep industry expertise and strategic resources, TA collaborates with management teams worldwide to help high-quality companies deliver lasting value. The firm has raised $65 billion in capital to date and has more than 160 investment professionals across offices in Boston, Menlo Park, Austin, London, Mumbai, and Hong Kong. Learn more at www.ta.com.


About Reverence Capital Partners


Reverence Capital Partners is a private investment firm focused on three complementary strategies: (i) Financial Services-Focused Private Equity, (ii) Structured Credit, and (iii) Real Estate Solutions. Today, Reverence manages in excess of $17 billion in AUM. Reverence focuses on thematic investing in leading global Financial Services businesses. The firm was founded in 2013 by Milton Berlinski, Peter Aberg and Alex Chulack, after distinguished careers advising and investing in a broad array of Financial Services businesses. The Founding Partners bring, on average, over 38 years of advisory and investing experience across a wide range of Financial Services sectors.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260709568668/en/



Permalink

https://www.aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656162


Contacts

Media Contacts


Russell Investments

Kerstin Österberg - 347-866-3032

Erin McCombe - 646-320-3962

newsroom@russellinvestments.com


B Capital

Kate Thompson / Madeline Jones / Kate Kelley

Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher

212-355-4449


CalPERS

Office of Public Affairs

916-795-3991

newsroom@calpers.ca.gov


TA Associates

Brynn Sandy - 617-646-7703

media@ta.com


Reverence Capital

Michael Landau / James Goldfarb

Gladstone Place Partners

212-230-5930


 

Thursday, July 9, 2026

KiddeFenwal Launches New Website and Information Hub

 


ASHLAND, Mass. - 

Enhanced digital platform reflects KiddeFenwal’s legacy, stature and growth trajectory in the fire suppression and safety controls industry


(BUSINESS WIRE) -- KiddeFenwal, the global leader in the fire suppression and safety controls industry, today unveiled a revitalized website, designed to serve as a comprehensive information hub for fire industry practitioners and customers alike. The modernized platform includes features created specifically with the company’s global partners, OEMs and distributors in mind, including:


Accelerated asset navigation, pointing users to critical safety documentation, design parameters and product specifications;


Seamless solution mapping, helping users quickly locate fire suppression configurations by industry, from data centers to BESS applications to commercial kitchens; and


Enhanced resource access, including streamlined pathways to connect with the company’s elite distributor network across 120 countries.


It also provides information about the company’s three brands, Kidde Fire Systems, Kidde Fire Protection and Fenwal Controls, replacing other sites serving customers in Europe and India.


The launch of the new site comes as KiddeFenwal is further cementing its leadership position in the fire and safety industry, expanding its global reach, introducing new innovative technologies, and proactively meeting the evolving needs of distributors and end users across industries. It reflects the company’s growth trajectory, as well as its legacy and stature in the fire and safety sector.


“For decades, KiddeFenwal has been trusted by partners to lead and shape the future of fire detection, protection and safety,” said Rekha Agrawal, CEO of KiddeFenwal. “With this new website, we’re proud to connect our community with needed critical industry and product information, enhancing their ability to help mitigate the risks of fire.”


To learn more about KiddeFenwal and view the new site, please visit www.kiddefenwal.com.


About KiddeFenwal


KiddeFenwal is a global leader in industrial and commercial fire suppression systems and safety controls. With a legacy spanning more than a century and the agility achieved as a standalone company, KiddeFenwal designs and delivers next-generation technologies that protect lives, livelihoods, critical infrastructure and even priceless museum artifacts. Its trusted brands, including Kidde Fire Systems, Kidde Fire Protection and Fenwal Controls, serve a wide range of sectors, from energy and manufacturing to marine, infrastructure and OEM applications. Headquartered in Ashland, Massachusetts, KiddeFenwal has a growing global presence across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific regions. For more information, visit www.kiddefenwal.com.


 


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260708164215/en/



Permalink

https://aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656142


Contacts

Media:

Sharon Horowitz

shorowitz@resilere.com

202-559-9171

Castel Group Publishes Its 2025 Sustainability Report and Reaffirms Its Commitment to a Locally Rooted Development Model

 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Castel Group has published its 2025 Sustainability Report, presenting the actions carried out over the year to strengthen the resilience of its activities, reduce its environmental footprint, and contribute to the economic and social development of the regions in which it operates.


Present in nearly 34 countries through its three business divisions: Castel Afrique for beverages, Somdia for agro-industry, and Castel Vins for wine production and trading, the Group is pursuing a clear ambition: to create more value locally by leveraging its industrial, agricultural and commercial presence, while addressing major climate, social and economic challenges.


In 2025, the Group generated €6.954 billion in revenue, with nearly 43,000 employees, beverage operations in 22 African countries, 80 production sites, 3 glassworks, 6 sugar refineries, 13 vineyards and 11 blending and packaging sites in France.


Against a backdrop of increasingly fragile supply chains, Castel continued to develop local value chains in order to secure its raw materials, reduce its dependence on imports, and strengthen local economies. In 2025, several initiatives were deployed, notably around maize in Burkina Faso, the rice sector in Chad, cereals in Malawi, and brewing raw materials in Ethiopia. This sovereignty strategy reflects the Group's determination to produce more within the countries themselves, make better use of locally available resources, and build more resilient value chains.


This approach is also reflected in the strengthening of synergies between Somdia and Castel Afrique. By-products from agricultural and sugar activities are increasingly being recovered and reused as part of a circular economy approach. Somdia inaugurated a first distillery in Congo in 2025, designed to produce alcohol from molasses derived from sugar refining. A second distillery was also commissioned in 2026 in Côte d'Ivoire, on the SUCAF-CI site. These investments make it possible to produce locally an alcohol that was previously imported, while making better use of sugar refinery by-products.


The preservation of natural resources is another key pillar. In 2025, Castel Afrique continued its efforts to better control water consumption, improve energy efficiency, and expand the use of renewable energy. In terms of water management, Castel Afrique's consumption ratio decreased by 30% in 2025 compared with 2018. A total of 52 sites are now ISO 14001 certified, an international standard attesting to the implementation of a structured environmental management system that helps identify, monitor and reduce the environmental impacts of activities. Castel Afrique's photovoltaic production also increased, while Somdia's sugar refineries generated 5.7 million gigajoules from biomass, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels during sugar campaigns.


The Group is also continuing its actions in favour of the circular economy. In 2025, 65% of Castel Afrique's beverage packaging was made of returnable glass or kegs, 54% cullet - recycled glass reintroduced into production - was used in glass production, and 95% of spent grain from the brewing process was recovered, notably for animal feed. The subsidiaries are also pursuing initiatives to collect and recycle plastic waste, while stepping up awareness programmes promoting responsible behaviour, as illustrated by Madagascar, where 177 tonnes of PET were collected in 2025.


The Group's local roots are also reflected in concrete actions for communities. In 2025, 24 boreholes were commissioned in Cameroon, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire, adding to the 14 installed in Chad in 2024, for a total investment of nearly €1.3 million. More than 230,000 trees were planted on and around the Group's sites, bringing the total number of trees planted since 2018 to 800,000. Health, education, access to water, and entrepreneurship support initiatives also continued through the Group's subsidiaries, the Somdia Foundations, and the Pierre Castel Fund.


“Our ambition is clear: to create more value in the regions where we operate, while strengthening the resilience of our activities in the face of economic, climate and societal challenges. In a world where supply chains are increasingly exposed, this long-term strategy is more relevant than ever,” said Gregory Clerc, Chief Executive Officer of Groupe Castel.


Castel Group reaffirms that sustainability is an integral part of its strategy: producing locally, making the most of resources, developing skills, preserving ecosystems, and making a lasting contribution to the economies in which it is rooted.


View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260708886174/en/



Permalink

https://aetoswire.com/en/news/0907202656144


Contacts

Press

Lucie Paturel

lucie.paturel@nocom.com

+33 6 11 69 09 59