TAMPA, Fla., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Upexi, Inc. (NASDAQ: UPXI)(the “Company” or “Upexi”), a brand owner specializing in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of consumer products with diversification into the cryptocurrency space, today announced that Brian Rudick, CFA, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), will present on a panel at the ICR Conference Spotlight Series on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. ET.
Along with Upexi’s CSO Brian Rudick, this virtual panel will feature industry leaders including David Bailey, Founder and CEO of Nakamoto, Leah Wald, President & Chief Executive Officer at Sol Strategies, Inc., and John D’Agostini, Co-Head of Investment Banking at Clear Street. The panel will examine the strategic rationale, benefits, risks, and historical evolution of raising third-party capital in public markets to acquire large positions in cryptocurrencies and holding them on balance sheets as core assets to provide investors with direct exposure to the underlying tokens via equity ownership.
ICR Conference Spotlight Series Panel Details Panel: HODL On Tight: Examining The Rise of Public Market Crypto Balance Sheet Strategies Panel Date & Time: Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. ET Webcast:https://ir.upexi.com/news-events/ir-calendar
A webcast of the presentation will be available after the event on the ‘News and Events’ section of Upexi’s Investor Relations website.
About Upexi, Inc. Upexi is a brand owner specializing in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of consumer products. The Company has entered the cryptocurrency industry and cash management of assets through a cryptocurrency portfolio. For more information on Upexi’s treasury strategy and future developments, visit www.upexi.com.
FRANKLIN, Tenn., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xsolis, an AI-driven technology company that reduces administrative waste by enabling collaboration between healthcare providers and payers, today announced initial results of its new generative AI (GenAI) solution pilot that streamlines medical necessity reviews. Beacon Health System, a not-for-profit health system in northern Indiana and Michigan, piloted the new Xsolis GenAI solution which resulted in decreased administrative burden, optimizing precious clinical resources and streamlining payer interactions.
In a three-month pilot experience, Beacon Health System found that Xsolis’ GenAI medical necessity review tool:
Decreased the average time to complete initial reviews by 68% — from 15 minutes per review to 4.7 minutes per review. This allows for increased daily reviews, faster onboarding of new nurses, and more resilient staffing models.
Increased consistency, thoroughness, and accuracy for medical necessity reviews across case management and utilization management teams — despite different geographical assignments that previously created variance affecting continuity of care. This has improved confidence among nurses and reduced internal peer reviews.
Accelerated approval from Beacon Health System’s health plan partners. By quickly generating the most essential patient information required for medical necessity reviews, a typical 4- to 5-day health plan approval has been accelerated to as quick as 2-day approvals — accelerating care decisions and reducing follow-up cycles.
Enabled the health system to get paid more quickly. Due to expedited review and approval processes, less additional work and communication is required after patient discharge, leading to faster payment without delays. This also helps reduce unnecessary denials that would have ultimately been overturned and prevents patients from erroneously receiving surprise bills, improving the patient experience.
“Health systems struggle to ‘do more with less’ each year, and rising denial rates and staffing shortages continue to present new challenges to ensure we’re optimizing all our available resources,” said Heather Wagner, MBA, BSN, RN, director of utilization review and case management, Beacon Health System. “Not only did Xsolis’ GenAI solution build off our existing time efficiencies and payer collaboration efforts, but it created additional places to use Xsolis’ GenAI models for system-wide improvements.”
A Deloitte study estimates that 15-28% of nurses’ work comprises low-value tasks, such as digging through the EHR to draft a medical necessity review, that satisfy administrative requirements but do not directly impact patient care. With the proper application of AI and other advanced technologies, however, it is possible to free up to 50% of time for revenue cycle roles and up to 20% for bedside nurses. According to the study, the mid-revenue cycle — where medical necessity decisions take place — is the most time-consuming domain within the healthcare revenue cycle and holds the most promise for tech-enabled time and financial savings.
Beacon Health System initially implemented Xsolis’ AI platform in May 2019 to better manage a high volume of critically ill patients with chronic illnesses. The partnership led to Wagner’s team supporting 140% more patients a day and operational improvements resulting in more than $95 million in savings, as of early 2025.
“We’re pleased to offer exciting new enhancements to Xsolis’ Dragonfly platform, such as generative AI, so our customers can stay one step ahead in today’s challenging healthcare landscape,” said Joan Butters, CEO and co-founder of Xsolis. “Congratulations to Beacon Health System and its leaders for highlighting how the right tools can enable more efficiency than ever before in healthcare when they are paired with the right people and processes. We’re delighted to continue enhancing the client user experience, delivering even more value to our customers.”
Xsolis has been leveraging human-in-the-loop AI practices to develop AI solutions that streamline medical necessity decision-making in healthcare for over a decade. The company’s generative AI solutions are available alongside its existing Dragonfly platform and predictive AI models, which have saved health system and health plan customers more than $1.5 billion.
For more information about Dragonfly and Xsolis’ portfolio of AI-powered solutions, please visit: https://www.xsolis.com/solutions.
To experience the Dragonfly platform and new enhancements such as Xsolis’ generative AI tools, attendees at the upcoming Healthcare Financial Management Association Annual Conference June 22-25 in Denver, Colorado, can learn more or request a demo: https://www.xsolis.com/2025-hfma-nat.
About Xsolis
Xsolis is an AI-driven technology company that reduces administrative waste by enabling collaboration between healthcare providers and payers. Dragonfly®, its AI-driven proprietary platform, is the first and only solution to use real-time predictive analytics to continuously assign an objective medical necessity score and assess the anticipated level of care for every patient, enabling more efficiency across the healthcare system. Xsolis is headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee. For more information, visit www.xsolis.com.
EAST LANSING, Mich., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TechSmith Corporation, an industry leader in visual communication, released Camtasia online, a free lite web-based version of its industry-leading screen recorder and video editor, Camtasia, used by more than 34 million people globally. The streamlined experience of the popular screen recorder enables users to create, customize, share, and collaborate on high-quality videos for free with no software download, subscription, or watermark. The solution is ideal for creating step-by-step walkthroughs and tutorials, providing personalized feedback or coaching, and showcasing a product or service.
“We’re excited to launch the first free, online version of Camtasia—a foundational step in bringing the power of our award-winning solution to more people, right in their browser,” said Tony Lambert, CTO of TechSmith. “Video is a team sport now, and Camtasia online makes it easier for creators of all skill levels to collaborate and create high-quality content from anywhere. While this first release focuses on streamlined creation, it will continue to grow in capability, and users can move projects into the Camtasia desktop editor for more advanced editing when needed.”
Camtasia online features
High-quality screen recording: Capture crystal-clear five-minute scenes in 1080p HD with flexible options for application-specific or full-screen recording, ensuring every detail is sharp and professional. Camtasia online records screen, camera, and microphone on separate layers to offer maximum editing flexibility.
Endless design options: Choose from 85+ pre-defined “looks” that match your style and then customize further with thousands of different effects and backgrounds for both camera and screen. Enjoy features like background removal, borders, drop shadows, corner rounding, masks, and reflections — all of which can be applied before or after recording.
Effortless editing: Quickly trim video scenes. Every edit is completely reversible, giving users the freedom to refine content stress-free.
Seamless collaboration: Invite others to collaborate on entire projects or assign access to specific scenes.
Flexible export and sharing options: Publish a Camtasia online project via link share or export directly to Camtasia 2025’s desktop editor to take advantage of enhanced capabilities including transitions, annotations, and dynamic captions.
Camtasia online is available for free today on popular web browsers including Google Chrome and Safari. Start recording at https://camtasia.techsmith.com/.
About Camtasia Camtasia is an industry-leading screen recording, video, and audio editing solution to simplify the creation of high-quality tutorials, demos, training, and visual content. With a rich, expansive, and flexible feature set, Camtasia has the lowest barrier of entry of any recording and editing software, helping users educate, inspire, and excite their audience with professional-quality videos. Its intuitive Camtasia Rev workflow guides users through various size, layout, background, effect, and filter choices, empowering users of all skill levels to quickly create professional quality videos. Camtasia is used by more than 34 million people globally, including all Fortune 500 companies like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon and Google. In 2024, Camtasia was rated a top 5 screen and video capture solution by G2’s community of reviewers. Camtasia is offered both as a full-featured desktop application and a streamlined web-based version, which also integrates seamlessly with the main editor. For more information, visit www.techsmith.com/video-editor.html. Connect with Camtasia on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram. For more information, visit https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/.
About TechSmith TechSmith is the market leader in screen capture software and productivity solutions for daily in-person, remote or hybrid workplace communication and customer-facing image and video content. The company’s award-winning flagship products, Snagit, Camtasia, and Audiate empower anyone to create remarkable videos and images that share knowledge for better training, tutorials, and everyday communication. TechSmith creates easy-to-use software and provides expert training resources and unmatched support — making TechSmith the global leader for easily creating effective images and videos. To date, billions of images and videos have been created with TechSmith’s products by more than 73 million people across more than 190 countries. TechSmith is ranked as a top 10 company in G2’s Spring 2024 report and winner of a 2024 Training Magazine Network Choice Award. Connect with TechSmith on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook. For more information, visit www.techsmith.com.
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iPower Inc. (Nasdaq: IPW) (“iPower” or the “Company”), a technology-driven eCommerce and supply chain platform, today announced a major strategic shift approved by its Board of Directors. The Company intends to reposition itself as a crypto treasury and blockchain infrastructure services company, with an initial and central emphasis on building a Bitcoin treasury strategy as a foundational component of its future growth.
As part of this transformation, iPower intends to start accumulating Bitcoin as a treasury reserve asset, with the aim of creating a long-term store of value and serving as a key element in enhancing iPower’s financial resilience and strategic optionality.
“Our entry into Bitcoin represents a strategic allocation decision grounded in our long-term view of digital assets as a viable treasury component,” said Lawrence Tan, CEO of iPower. “We believe Bitcoin offers strong potential as a reserve asset, and this initial focus aligns with our goals of enhancing balance sheet resilience and positioning the Company in emerging financial ecosystems.”
Alongside its treasury initiative, iPower plans to expand into blockchain-related retail services, leveraging its operational expertise and infrastructure to deliver a range of consumer-facing offerings:
Acting as a retailer of cloud mining power, enabling broader access to mining participation
Serving as a distributor and retailer of home-use mining equipment, supporting retail and SMB miners
Launching a new line of cold wallets and personal digital asset custody tools to support secure ownership
iPower plans to integrate these new services into its proprietary SuperSuite platform, which will continue to evolve to support both eCommerce and blockchain-aligned business solutions.
This strategic pivot reflects iPower’s broader goal of aligning its operations with future-facing technologies and market demand. While the Company will continue to support its existing operations during the transition, iPower’s primary focus will increasingly shift toward the digital asset economy, infrastructure enablement, and consumer access to blockchain-powered tools.
iPower expects to release additional updates regarding its treasury activities, new product offerings, and partnerships in the coming months.
About iPower Inc.
iPower Inc. is a tech and data-driven online retailer, as well as a provider of value-added ecommerce services for third-party products and brands. In addition to its plans to expand into the crypto treasury and blockchain infrastructure services company, iPower’s capabilities include a full spectrum of online channels, robust fulfillment capacity, a nationwide network of warehouses, competitive last mile delivery partners and a differentiated business intelligence platform. iPower believes that these capabilities will enable it to efficiently move a diverse catalog of SKUs from its supply chain partners to end consumers every day, providing the best value to customers in the U.S. and other countries. For more information, please visit iPower’s website at www.meetipower.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
All statements other than statements of historical fact in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about iPower’s financial condition, business strategy, development, financial needs and general market conditions. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. iPower undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although iPower believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and iPower cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results and performance in iPower’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and in its other SEC filings.
MIAMI, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the data security leader, today extended its industry-leading Data Security Platform to OpenAI’s ChatGPT Enterprise Compliance API. The integration helps customers automatically identify sensitive data uploads, monitor prompts and responses, and prevent breaches and compliance violations.
ChatGPT Enterprise boosts workforce productivity for more than 3 million enterprise users. The more data the application can access, the more relevant and useful its responses become.
Varonis for ChatGPT Enterprise gives customers a powerful and additional layer of defense against compromised accounts, insider threats, and misuse that could result in data breaches or regulatory penalties. By continuously right-sizing permissions and monitoring interactions, Varonis limits sensitive data flows and alerts security teams to abnormal and risky behavior.
“ChatGPT is becoming a critical part of how modern teams work. With Varonis, security teams can embrace this shift without losing visibility or control over their sensitive data,” said Varonis EVP of Engineering and Chief Technology Officer David Bass.
Varonis complements ChatGPT Enterprise by adding continuous, industry-leading data security and 24×7 monitoring, helping organizations adopt AI with greater assurance.
Key features include:
Automated data classification. Varonis discovers and classifies sensitive data uploaded to, or generated by, ChatGPT Enterprise.
Continuous session monitoring. Varonis monitors prompts and responses inside ChatGPT to ensure that sensitive or out-of-policy data isn’t uploaded or shared.
Behavior-based threat detection. Varonis automatically alerts on abnormal use, like mass file uploads to ChatGPT, and risky changes, like new admins, that could place data in harm’s way.
The foundation of AI security is data security. With Varonis for ChatGPT Enterprise, customers get both preventative and detective controls to ensure users can maximize the value from AI while minimizing the risk of a data breach.
This integration complements OpenAI’s robust native security and privacy features.
Varonis for ChatGPT Enterprise will be available to customers in private preview. Customers can request a free Varonis Data Risk Assessment to evaluate their AI readiness and try it today.
Additional Resources
About Varonis Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.
Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.
Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.
Investor Relations Contact: Tim Perz Varonis Systems, Inc. 646-640-2112 investors@varonis.com
News Media Contact: Rachel Hunt Varonis Systems, Inc. 877-292-8767 (ext. 1598) pr@varonis.com
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NBC Securities, a leading independent Southeast-based full-service broker-dealer and registered investment advisor, announced the release of its 2025 Succession Planning Guide for Financial Advisors. This comprehensive roadmap helps financial advisors navigate one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of practice management.
With 37% of financial advisors set to retire within the next decade, over $10T in assets will change hands. Yet, 56% of advisors lack formal succession plans, putting businesses and client relationships at risk. Practices without proper succession plans risk losing significant value, client trust, and key personnel.
“Succession planning goes far beyond retirement preparation. It’s about legacy building and ensuring continuity for the clients and communities we serve,” said NBC Securities CEO John Doody. “Our role at NBC Securities is to provide the tools and opportunities to plan ahead and thrive at every stage of life, both for our advisors and the investors they serve.”
The guide outlines an eight-phased approach with actionable insights:
The succession planning guide addresses all advisors, from retirement-age to young advisors seeking to acquire established practices, or seasoned advisors looking for greater independence and expansion opportunities.
“As advisors who built this industry over the past decades are preparing to exit, many practices still lack adequate succession plans,” said Peyton Falkenburg, Executive Vice President at NBC Securities. “Without proper succession planning, advisors risk significant disruption to client relationships and the potential loss of tremendous practice value built over decades.”
About NBC Securities: NBC Securities is a privately held, full-service broker-dealer and registered investment advisor serving individuals and companies across the U.S. They provide private wealth services and asset management strategies from financial professionals averaging 25+ years of experience, plus technology-driven custodial solutions. With headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama and 28 branch offices across multiple states, NBC Securities manages or advises approximately $5 billion in assets.
For more information, visit www.nbcsecurities.com.
BOSTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ataccama, the data trust company, today announced the release of a new report by Business Application Research Center (BARC), The Rising Imperative for Data Observability, which examines how enterprises are building – or struggling to build – trust into modern data systems. Based on a survey of more than 220 data and analytics leaders across North America and Europe, the report finds that while 58% of organizations have implemented or optimized data observability programs – systems that monitor detect, and resolve data quality and pipeline issues in real-time – 42% still say they do not trust the outputs of their AI/ML models.
The findings reflect a critical shift. Adoption is no longer a barrier. Most organizations have tools in place to monitor pipelines and enforce data policies. But trust in AI remains elusive. While 85% of organizations trust their BI dashboards, only 58% say the same for their AI/ML model outputs. The gap is widening as models rely increasingly on unstructured data and inputs that traditional observability tools were never designed to monitor or validate.
Observability is often introduced as a reactive, fragmented, and loosely governed monitoring layer, symptomatic of deeper issues like siloed teams or unclear ownership. 51% of respondents cite skills gaps as a primary barrier to observability maturity, followed by budget constraints and lack of cross-functional alignment. But leading teams are pushing it further, embedding observability into designing, delivering, and maintaining data across domains. These programs don’t just flag anomalies – they resolve them upstream, often through automated data quality checks and remediation workflows that reduce reliance on manual triage. When observability is deeply connected to automated data quality, teams gain more than visibility: they gain confidence that the data powering their models can be trusted.
“Data observability has become a business-critical discipline, but too many organizations are stuck in pilot purgatory,” said Jay Limburn, Chief Product Officer at Ataccama. “They’ve invested in tools, but they haven’t operationalized trust. That means embedding observability into the full data lifecycle, from ingestion and pipeline execution to AI-driven consumption, so issues can surface and be resolved before they reach production. We’ve seen this firsthand with customers – a global manufacturer used data observability to catch and eliminate false sensor alerts, unnecessarily shutting down production lines. That kind of upstream resolution is where trust becomes real.”
The report also underscores how unstructured data is reshaping observability strategies. As adoption of GenAI and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) grows, enterprises are working with inputs like PDFs, images, and long-form documents – objects that power business-critical use cases but often fall outside the scope of traditional quality and validation checks. Fewer than a third of organizations are feeding unstructured data into AI models today, and only a small fraction of those apply structured observability or automated quality checks to these inputs. These sources introduce new forms of risk, especially when teams lack automated methods to classify, monitor, and assess them in real time.
“Trustworthy data is becoming a competitive differentiator, and more organizations are using observability to build and sustain it,” said Kevin Petrie, Vice President at BARC. “We’re seeing a shift: leading enterprises aren’t just monitoring data; they’re addressing the full lifecycle of AI/ML inputs. That means automating quality checks, embedding governance controls into data pipelines, and adapting their processes to observe dynamic unstructured objects. This report shows that observability is evolving from a niche practice into a mainstream requirement for Responsible AI.”
The most mature programs are closing that gap by integrating observability directly into their data engineering and governance frameworks. In these environments, observability is not siloed; it works in concert with DataOps automation, MDM systems, and data catalogs to apply automated data quality checks at every stage, resulting in improved data reliability, faster decision-making, and reduced operational risk.
Ataccama partnered with BARC on the report to help data leaders understand how to extend observability beyond infrastructure metrics or surface-level monitoring. Through its unified data trust platform, Ataccama ONE, organizations can apply anomaly detection, lineage tracking, and automated remediation across structured and unstructured data. Observability becomes part of a broader data trust architecture that supports governance, scales with AI workloads, and reduces the operational burden on data teams.
Ataccama is the data trust company. Organizations worldwide rely on Ataccama ONE, the unified data trust platform, to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and actionable. By integrating data quality, lineage, observability, governance, and master data management into a single solution, Ataccama enables businesses to unlock value from their data for AI, analytics, and operations. Trusted by hundreds of global enterprises, Ataccama helps organizations drive innovation, reduce costs, and mitigate risk. Recognized as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Augmented Data Quality and the 2025 Magic Quadrant for Data and Analytics Governance, Ataccama continues to set the standard for trusted data at scale. Learn more at www.ataccama.com.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Compatio AI, the leader in product configuration and recommendation solutions, today announced the launch of Guide, a next-generation guided selling platform that helps businesses match complex customer needs to just the right products, configurations and complete solutions. Built on Compatio’s Deterministic AI, Guide delivers optimizable, technically sound recommendations, addressing the growing challenge of distributing sales expertise to digital channels, in industries where accuracy matters.
“In complex industries, buying a product isn’t just about making a choice, it’s about making the right choice,” said Tim Baynes, Founder and CEO of Compatio AI. “When selling complex products, an incorrect recommendation can mean lost sales, costly returns or even safety risks. Too often, AI-driven solutions feel like a black box, leaving businesses guessing. In some cases, they generate inaccurate or fabricated recommendations, creating risk for both the business and customer. Guide changes that by analyzing customer needs then combining optimized recommendations with highly accurate product compatibility or configuration logic, ensuring that every solution fits.”
Guide powers cross-selling for complex products across the entire catalog, even across divisions or brands. It allows buyers or sellers to find, compare, and assemble complete solutions in one place, regardless of their level of expertise. Unlike other guided-selling tools, it doesn’t just recommend, it ensures products work together seamlessly. The platform supports persona-based buying journeys, intuitive product comparisons and complex sizing logic, while integrating with e-commerce platforms, PIMs and ERP systems.
How Guide delivers smarter selling:
Encodes sales expertise – Functions like a highly experienced sales agent across all products and brands available
Smart recommendations with built-in configuration – No more mismatched products or incomplete solutions.
Optimizable for conversion, revenue, or profitability – Drives revenue capture and top-line growth.
Flexible, composable architecture – Easily integrates into existing digital sales environments.
Scalability across industries – From industrial components to complex consumer products, Guide helps businesses navigate large, technical product catalogs.
Breaks down silos of product-centric expertise – Powering revenue acceleration across the entire enterprise with accurate and relevant cross-selling
Guide is being piloted with select customers and will be widely available soon. Compatio Ai is working with industry-leading manufacturers and distributors to showcase its ability to improve sales performance and enhance customer confidence.
Baynes added, “As industries face growing complexity and a shrinking pool of experienced product experts, there’s a need for technology that doesn’t just recommend products but ensures they’re the right fit. Guide blends deterministic AI with an intuitive user experience, helping businesses scale expertise and improve sales across all digital channels.”
About Compatio AI Compatio AI specializes in guided selling, product configuration and recommendation solutions, combining technology with human expertise to help businesses accelerate revenue capture. Powered by the Product eXpert Engine, Compatio’s solutions provide Real Intelligence™ to drive highly relevant and technically accurate product recommendations and configuration. Compatio is trusted by leading distributors and manufacturers to simplify the sales of complex products, and retain critical organizational knowledge.
Northstrive Biosciences and Yuva Biosciences previously announced a collaboration leveraging MitoNova™, YuvaBio’s proprietary mitochondrial science-focused artificial intelligence platform, to discover and develop novel pharmaceutical treatments for obesity, type 2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic conditions.
Phase II of this collaboration involves compiling a selection of small molecule candidates that promote mitochondrial health in obesity and cardiac diseases.
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northstrive Biosciences Inc. (“Northstrive”), a subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB) (the “Company,” “PMGC,” “we,” or “our”), today announced the initiation of Phase II of the AI Development Program with strategic partner Yuva Biosciences, Inc. (“YuvaBio”). As part of the Phase II objective, both companies will collaborate to leverage MitoNova™, YuvaBio’s AI mitochondrial science-focused artificial intelligence platform, to compile a selection of small molecule candidates that promote mitochondrial health in obesity and cardiac diseases.
YuvaBio will use MitoNova™ to virtually screen a large-scale library of diverse, drug-like small molecules and predict which candidates are most likely to promote mitochondrial health. YuvaBio will then analyze results of this screen, including chemical and bioactivity properties, to highlight opportunities for biological validation. Then, YuvaBio will compile an initial list of synthetic compounds for muscle preservation and metabolic health.
About Northstrive Biosciences Inc.
Northstrive Biosciences Inc., a PMGC Holdings Inc. company, is a biopharmaceutical company focusing on the development and acquisition of cutting-edge aesthetic medicines. Northstrive Biosciences’ lead asset, EL-22, leverages an engineered probiotic approach to address obesity’s pressing issue of preserving muscle while on weight loss treatments, including GLP-1 receptor agonists. For more information, please visit www.northstrivebio.com.
About PMGC Holdings Inc.
PMGC Holdings Inc. is a diversified holding company that manages and grows its portfolio through strategic acquisitions, investments, and development across various industries. Currently, our portfolio consists of three wholly owned subsidiaries: Northstrive Biosciences Inc., PMGC Research Inc., and PMGC Capital LLC. We are committed to exploring opportunities in multiple sectors to maximize growth and value. For more information, please visit https://www.pmgcholdings.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Words such as “believes,” “expects,” “plans,” “potential,” “would” and “future” or similar expressions such as “look forward” are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, activities of regulators and future regulations and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. These and other risks are described more fully in PMGC Holdings’ filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 28, 2025, and its other documents subsequently filed with or furnished to the SEC. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. Except to the extent required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.
NEW YORK, NY, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ilustrato Pictures International Inc. (OTC: ILUS) (“ILUS” or the “Company”), a mergers and acquisitions company focused on acquiring and scaling businesses in the public safety and industrial sectors, announces that it has decided to postpone the upcoming Shareholder Meeting, originally scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025.
In response to feedback from our shareholder community regarding timing and attendance logistics of the meeting, ILUS believes it is in the best interest of all stakeholders to postpone the meeting for later this year. We are targeting a new date in November and will provide ample notice to allow shareholders sufficient time to make travel arrangements and to attend in person.
In the meantime, ILUS will release a podcast update in the coming week, providing an overview of current business developments and strategic progress, content originally planned for the Shareholder Meeting. The update will be delivered in segments for easier viewing at shareholders’ convenience. This will be followed by a written Q&A, with further details to be shared shortly.
We remain fully committed to transparency and providing meaningful opportunities for shareholder engagement. We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we ensure the rescheduled event is as valuable and accessible as possible.
Certain information set forth in this press release contains “forward-looking information”, including “future-oriented financial information” and “financial outlook”, under applicable securities laws (collectively referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, the information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements and includes, but is not limited to, the (i) projected financial performance of the Company; (ii) completion of, and the use of proceeds from, the sale of the shares being offered hereunder; (iii) the expected development of the Company’s business, projects, and joint ventures; (iv) execution of the Company’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to future M&A activity and global growth; (v) sources and availability of third-party financing for the Company’s projects; (vi) completion of the Company’s projects that are currently underway, in development or otherwise under consideration; (vii) renewal of the Company’s current customer, supplier and other material agreements; and (viii) future liquidity, working capital, and capital requirements. Forward-looking statements are provided to allow potential investors the opportunity to understand management’s beliefs and opinions in respect of the future so that they may use such beliefs and opinions as one factor in evaluating an investment. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements contained in this presentation are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has provided guidance to issuers regarding the use of social media to disclose material nonpublic information. In this regard, investors and others should note that we announce material financial information via official Press Releases, in addition to SEC filings, press releases, Questions & Answers sessions, public conference calls, and webcasts also may take time from time to time. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with the public about our company, our services, and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media could be deemed to be material information. Therefore, considering the SEC’s guidance, we encourage investors, the media, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on the following social & media channels: Website: https://ilus-group.com X: @ILUS_INTL
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat” or “Company”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, announced today that the Company has entered into securities purchase agreements with certain institutional investors for the purchase and sale of 6,448,276 shares of common stock, pursuant to a registered direct offering, expected to result in gross proceeds of approximately $46.75 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses. The offering is expected to close on or about June 18, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
The Company intends to use net proceeds from the offering for general corporate and working capital purposes, including but not limited to operating expenditures related to its new unmanned surface vessel division.
Northland Capital Markets is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the transaction.
The offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-283242), which was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 11, 2024. A final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the registered direct offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Additionally, when available, electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, from Northland Securities, Inc., 150 South Fifth Street, Suite 3300, Minneapolis, MN.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
About Red Cat Holdings, Inc.
Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a leading-edge Family of Systems. This includes the flagship Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red.
Safe Harbor Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected timing of the offering and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the offerings, and our intended use of proceeds from the offering. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-KT filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2025. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.
In Europe, the fastest-warming continent, the intensification of extreme weather events and changes in precipitation patterns have led to widespread and catastrophic flooding. Last year, storms and flooding affected an estimated 413,000 people, resulting in the loss of at least 335 lives. Material damage is estimated to amount to at least €18 billion, according to the 2024 European State of the Climate report from the Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization.
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The flooding in October that hit southeastern Spain and the Valencia province in particular took the heaviest toll. Intense and prolonged rainfall and river flooding led to 232 fatalities, and infrastructure damage and economic losses totalled around €16.5 billion. More than seven months later, the local economy has rebounded, thanks in part to public aid packages worth 0.5% of the country’s GDP. However, in early May, the same part of Spain found itself exposed again to the disruptive consequences of climate change when extreme weather hit.
The costs of flooding
The direct costs from the damage to public infrastructure and private assets are only part of the economic losses originating from flooding. The indirect costs might not be immediately visible, but they are certainly not less significant. Business interruptions reduce firms’ revenue and cash flows, straining liquidity and, in the worst cases, threatening their survival. In addition, the increasing likelihood of future flooding may be priced into the valuation of assets and real estate in areas exposed to these types of climate risks. Firms impacted by climate-related hazards might find it difficult to pay back loans or bonds, or to raise finance as physical assets that can be pledged as collateral for bank credit lose value. Ultimately, this can affect the stability of the financial system.
For these reasons, climate change is not just a long-term environmental issue, but a threat to our economy and financial systems now. Economists at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) have been conducting research to better understand how the links between the business sector and the financial system amplify its impact.
A JRC study of flood events between 2007 and 2018 finds that flooding significantly worsened the performance of European firms. Manufacturers exposed to flooding experienced reductions in sales, number of employees and the value of their assets. These impacts occurred in the year following the flooding and tended to be persistent, with no clear signs of recovery seven years after the disaster. Some firms even went out of business. The study also finds that companies in flood-prone areas were better able to weather the shock than businesses exposed to less frequent flooding. This is consistent with the fact that adaptation and protection measures reduce the impacts of flooding.
Threats to smaller firms
Water damage is particularly disruptive for companies that are highly indebted. A second JRC study zooms in on the mechanisms whereby financing choices, and reliance on bank loans in particular, amplify the impact of climate change. This study focuses on loans extended to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy, Spain and Belgium between 2008 and 2019. It was motivated by the idea that smaller firms, which are more financially fragile than larger ones, might also be more vulnerable to the localised impact of climate-related hazards, not least because of their limited capacity to geographically diversify their operations and access market-based finance. The study shows that flood episodes under analysis strained SMEs’ ability to meet their debt obligations. Flooded firms were more likely to incur delays in servicing their loans and eventually fail to repay them, even two years after the disaster.
In turn, this entails losses for the banks that finance these firms. In general, if banks anticipate the impact of flooding on business operations, they could be expected to divert lending toward safer borrowers or charge a higher interest rate on credit extended to at-risk firms. Indeed, the study finds evidence that prospective flood risk is priced into new loans. In the period under analysis, the “flood risk premium” was especially high for loans to smaller firms and for those granted by local, specialised banks, both of which tend to have geographically concentrated activities that are more exposed to disaster impacts. Loans to borrowers exposed to high flood risk were 12 percent more expensive, all things being equal.
Thus, flooding causes worse financial conditions for businesses and exposes the banking sector to losses on their loan portfolios. The numbers can be staggering: days after the October 2024 flooding, the Spanish Central Bank said that banks’ exposure in the affected areas would total €20 billion, with €13 billion in household loans and €7 billion in business loans (60% to SMEs), impacting 23,000 companies and 472,000 individuals.
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and severe, the direct and indirect costs of climate change are projected to increase, unevenly affecting households, firms and territories across Europe. Increasing investments in adaptation, eg in flood defence, and closing the climate insurance protection gap – the uninsured portion of economic losses caused by natural hazards – are crucial to increase the resilience of our economies and financial systems and preserve the wellbeing of our societies. The complex structure of investment incentives calls for a multilayered approach, with a mix of private and public funding and risk-sharing mechanisms.
Serena Fatica ne travaille pas, ne conseille pas, ne possède pas de parts, ne reçoit pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’a déclaré aucune autre affiliation que son organisme de recherche.
In the early hours of June 13, Israel launched its largest-ever attack on Iran. Airstrikes involving more than 200 aircraft targeted nuclear and missile facilities, as well as key figures in the Iranian military and nuclear programme leadership. The attack, codenamed “Operation Rising Lion”, appears to have been supported on the ground by Israeli agents operating drones positioned deep within Iranian territory.
In one sense, this attack has been a long time coming. Over the past 15 years, Israel has repeatedly threatened to attack Iran, arguing that Tehran harbours nuclear weapons aspirations that pose an existential threat to the Israeli state. Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said as much in a televised address announcing the same-day military operation in which he placed the nuclear issue front and centre: “We struck at the heart of Iran’s nuclear weaponisation program.” But why has Israel chosen to act now?
Clearly, we are looking at a dynamic situation from the outside in, but there are some important points worth considering. First, events over the past 12 months or so have undermined Iran’s ability to deter adversaries, which has left the regime exposed. Israel’s response to an Iranian missile attack in October, for example, seriously degraded Iran’s air defences as well as missile production capabilities. This created weaknesses that Israel has since exploited in its renewed military campaign.
Looking more broadly, the fallout from the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel has decimated the proxies that Iran spent decades cultivating in the Middle East. The brutal war in Gaza has decimated Hamas, while to the north, Hezbollah is severely degraded after its own 14-month war with Israel.
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Add to this the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, and it is clear that Iran’s so called “axis of resistance”, a key pillar of the country’s deterrence posture, is now a dramatically reduced force. Israel has been emboldened by these events. It now clearly sees a unique opportunity to further degrade a major adversary – and potentially bring about regime change.
What’s more, Iran’s nuclear programme has continued to advance since Donald Trump withdrew the US in 2018 from the joint comprehensive plan of action (JCPOA). This was the 2015 deal negotiated during Barack Obama’s presidency that rolled back the country’s nuclear capabilities in return for a relaxation of harsh sanctions against Iran.
In March, the Washington-based – but non-partisan – Institute for Science and International Security reported that Iran could convert its current stock of 60% enriched uranium into enough weapons-grade uranium for seven nuclear weapons at the Fordow fuel enrichment plant. This could be done in as little as three weeks.
At the same time, the US director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, told the Senate intelligence committee on March 27 that the intelligence community “continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon”.
So this raises the question of whether the Israeli government had intelligence that the Iranians were moving forward with weaponisation. It is possible that Iran was preparing to make a dash for the bomb, crossing an Israeli red line and triggering action – although there is currently no evidence to support this theory. What is clear, however, is that Iran’s brinkmanship around its effort to hedge its bets on a nuclear option meant it was always operating in a dangerous space.
Was the Israeli attack inevitable?
At first sight, the answer to this seems obvious. For years now, Israel has been very clear that it will not accept a nuclear armed Iran. Yet Tehran has insisted on a nuclear programme that appears to go well beyond what is required for civil nuclear purposes. On June 12, the International Atomic Energy Agency declared that Iran was not complying with its nuclear safeguards obligations.
By most estimates, Iran is not far from the bomb and Israel has finally taken action – ostensibly on this basis.
Had Iran curbed its nuclear advancement and continued to comply with its IAEA obligations, Israel would have found it more challenging to justify any military action politically. In the same vein, if Iran had made quicker and greater progress in its nuclear talks with the Trump administration on reaching some form of new deal, this would also have made it more difficult for Israel to act.
The combination of the IAEA declaration and the lack of acceptable progress in talks with the US clearly influenced Israeli decision making. So why did the Iranian regime not take more concrete steps in this direction?
Iran’s nuclear ‘hedging’
The answer goes to the heart of Iran’s deterrence posture. Alongside its conventional forces and its infamous axis of resistance, Iran has sought to leverage its nuclear programme for influence.
Nearly ten years ago, we argued that Iran was engaged in a strategy of “nuclear hedging”. The value of this approach lies in the potential for a state to position itself relatively close to the bomb without incurring all the negative – including potentially military – consequences of a fully-fledged nuclear weapons programme, where the goal is to cross the threshold as quickly as possible.
Yet hedging is a delicate balancing act that requires plausible deniability of weapons intent. A step too far can undermine any idea that the nuclear development is for civilian use, instead inviting military intervention.
Conversely, too few steps towards a credible breakout capability and hedging has little value. For any coercive or deterrent benefit to be obtained, a state must be perceived by others as relatively close to having the bomb.
With the deterioration of Iran’s regional power over the past year, the value to Tehran of its nuclear programme has become much greater. This may help to explain why Iran did not take firm steps to reduce external concerns about its nuclear intentions.
Tehran is likely to have factored the cost of being seen to give in to external pressure on its nuclear programme. At home there is the risk that the regime’s hold on power could be weakened by capitulation to external pressure from the US, and Israel in particular. Regionally, the power costs would include losing valuable influence over other states across the Middle East.
At the same time, the US government has changed its stance since the JCPOA deal was struck during Obama’s presidency in 2015, allowing Iran some small degree of enrichment capacity. The first Trump administration pulled the US out of the JCPOA in 2018 depicting it as a flawed agreement.
In Donald Trump’s second term, his administration has continued to take a hard line, pushing for Iran to give up enrichment. From an Iranian perspective, the benefits of rolling back its capabilities failed to materialise.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. But even at this early stage, this case demonstrates clearly the risks associated with Iran’s strategy of nuclear hedging.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Israel’s initial attack on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, alongside its assassination of top military officials and nuclear scientists, on June 13 has been followed by days of escalating strikes. Iran threatened “severe punishment” and quickly launched what were, in relative terms, smaller-scale missile attacks against Israeli territory.
Israel’s military then expanded its assault on Iran, with the Israeli defence minister, Israel Katz, saying “Tehran will burn” if Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, “continues to fire missiles at the Israeli home front”. Israel hit dozens of targets in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on June 15, and has since issued evacuation orders for significant areas of the city.
The exchange of attacks has put the varying military and defensive capabilities of Israel and Iran on stark display. In particular, it appears that Israel has been able to exercise a high degree of air superiority over Iran.
Israel was able to use more than 200 manned aircraft in its initial attack, with its air force reportedly suffering zero casualties. Within 48 hours of starting the conflict, Israel said it had gained control of the skies above Tehran.
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This superiority has largely been gained through concerted efforts over the past year to destroy or degrade Iran’s air defence systems. In October 2024, for example, Israeli strikes targeted air defences protecting Iranian oil and gas facilities as well as those defending sites linked to Tehran’s nuclear programme and ballistic missile production.
With a weakened air defence system, the Iranian military has been less able to prevent missile attacks and Israeli aircraft from entering its air space. This has given the Israeli military greater freedom of action in terms of the targets it chooses to attack – and greater freedom of choice when planning operations.
Israeli aircraft have been dropping bombs from within Iran, instead of relying on long-range missiles. Iran, on the other hand, has been restricted to using its arsenal of missiles to strike Israel from distance.
Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, made reference to the strategic importance of this aerial superiority on June 16. While confirming evacuation orders for the Iranian capital, he said: “The Israeli air force controls the skies over Tehran. This changes the entire campaign.”
Netanyahu later did not rule out killing Khamenei, saying it would “end the conflict”. Katz repeated the threat the following day, warning Khamenei of a “fate similar to Saddam Hussein”.
Iran has been far less effective than Israel in its response – which is no great surprise. Israel says it has destroyed “one-third” of the surface-to-surface missile launchers possessed by Iran. And the majority of the missiles and drones that have been fired by Iran into Israeli territory have been intercepted before striking their targets.
But the strength of Israel’s so-called iron dome air defence system has, somewhat counter-intuitively, also offered Iran some advantages. In order to maintain the Iranian regime’s own internal security and stability, as well as its wider political aims of being a regional power, Tehran had to respond with a certain level of force.
However, Iran is also fully aware of the protection the iron dome provides to the Israeli population. The Iranian government will still be able to point to the few missiles and drones that have reached their target, and the destruction they have caused, as evidence that it is able to project its power beyond its own borders and respond in the face of aggressive Israeli action.
It is able to do so in the knowledge that the level of destruction and deaths of Israeli civilians, which so far stands at around 24 people, will be limited to such a degree that any further escalation by Israel will be seen as unjustified by the wider international community.
However, as the destruction and death toll rises, it will become harder for either government to follow this path of logic. Iran has already criticised the Israeli military’s claim that it has conducted strikes in a precise manner and only against military targets, reporting that over 200 civilians have been killed in the strikes.
It is here where mistakes and missteps could see events spiral out of control. This may lead to a wider and larger-scale conflict that neither side wants but is unable to prevent occurring. Iran, for its part, is reportedly signalling that it is seeking an end to hostilities and the resumption of talks over its nuclear programme.
Wider consequences
If the conflict does escalate, Israel will probably target Iranian military production facilities. The Israeli military has already issued a warning on social media, telling the Iranian people to stay away from all weapons manufacturing facilities.
Other targets may include nuclear installations – though at least one, the heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site in central Iran, will not be targeted. Fordow is hidden in a mountain, with centrifuges located possibly as deep as 80 metres underground.
Only the US military has the hardware capable of reaching this facility, so attacking the site would require US intervention. This is something the current Washington administration has proved reluctant to do, so far.
But any escalation could have ramifications beyond the Middle East. Iran has supplied Shahed-type drones to Russia for use in its war in Ukraine, with them becoming a key part of Russia’s military strategy. However, Russia is now largely producing its own supplies of Shahed drones internally.
A much more likely effect is the prolonging of the war in Ukraine as international attention shifts to de-escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The international community has focused on trying to prevent further attacks, with the US president, Donald Trump, advocating for talks rather than more strikes.
On June 15, Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social: “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal, just like I got India and Pakistan to make.” Whether Israel and Iran take heed of his request will become clear over the coming days and weeks.
Matthew Powell does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Keeping a healthy mix of friendly microbes in the gut – known as eubiosis – is crucial for good health. When that delicate balance is thrown off – often by antibiotics, diet or illness – the result can be a range of issues, from digestive problems to more serious conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and even neurological and metabolic disorders.
One increasingly popular way to try to restore gut health is through faecal microbiota transplantation. This involves taking stool from a healthy person, isolating the beneficial microbes and putting them in a capsule (jokingly referred to as “crapsules” or “poo pills”). The hope is that the beneficial microbes in the pill will establish themselves in the patient’s gut, thereby improving microbial diversity and function.
Although generally viewed as safe and effective, a new international study published in the journal Cell has raised some concerns. The scientists found that when the donor’s microbes do not properly match the recipient’s gut environment – a situation they describe as a “mismatch” – the treatment can disrupt the body’s metabolic and immune systems, possibly with long-lasting consequences.
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The term “mismatch” comes from the world of organ transplants, where the recipient’s body rejects the donor organ. In this case, the problem is that microbes from the donor’s large intestine may not be suitable for other parts of the recipient’s gut, especially the small intestine, where the microbial makeup is very different.
To test this, researchers gave antibiotics to mice to disturb their natural gut microbes, then treated them with faecal transplants. They also tried transplanting microbes specifically from different parts of the small intestine. The mice were monitored for one to three months to track changes.
They found that faecal transplants often led to regional mismatches – the wrong microbes ending up in the wrong place. This altered the mix and behaviour of the gut microbes in unexpected ways, disrupting energy balance and other functions.
Biopsies from the gut and liver showed significant, lasting changes in how certain genes – particularly those linked to metabolism and immunity – were being expressed.
The study did not specify exactly what kind of health issues might result from these genetic shifts. But the researchers are urging doctors to take greater care when using faecal transplants, particularly when it comes to dose, timing and possible side-effects.
There may, however, be a better way forward. A newer method known as the “omni microbial approach” involves transferring microbes from all parts of the intestine, not just the colon. This could help recreate a more balanced and natural gut environment, avoiding the local mismatches seen in standard faecal transplants.
There is also growing interest in techniques that aim to “terraform” the gut: deliberately reshaping specific regions with carefully selected microbes to restore normal function.
This new research has certainly sparked debate around the safety of faecal transplants. But with alternative approaches already being developed, there is real hope that the benefits of gut-based treatments can still be delivered, without the risks.
Georgios Efthimiou does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
One-third of the Earth’s land surface is already degraded. The UN estimates that more than 2.6 billion people are harmed by land degradation, with countries losing up to US$10.6 trillion (£7.8 trillion) a year because of damage to “ecosystem services”, including the benefits people get from nature such as water and food.
Unhealthy soil is a major contributor to land degradation. This can lead to loss of biodiversity, harm plants and animals, cause sand and dust storms and affect crop yields.
These consequences affect the regulation of the planet’s climate and water cycle, socioeconomic activities, food security and forced migration of people.
Emerging smart technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite remote sensing and big data analysis offer a chance to protect our soils. These tools can help track soil health in real time. This will support farmers, landowners, government agencies and local communities in making better decisions to care for the soil.
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As a professor of geo-hydroinformatics – a field that combines geoscience, hydrology and information technology – my research focuses on using AI, algorithms and advanced modelling tools to better analyse and predict soil health.
My team and I have developed the first global map of soil salinisation (accumulation of salt in soil) under various climate scenarios using AI-powered techniques. Soil salinisation is one of the leading contributors to soil degradation and can happen naturally or because of human activities, such as using salty irrigation water or poor drainage systems.
With increasing climate uncertainty, our models help identify regions most vulnerable to salinisation. Our AI-driven analysis predicts that by the year 2100, dryland regions in South America, southern and western Australia, Mexico, the southwestern US and South Africa will be key hotspots of soil salinisation.
In another key study, we used satellite data, AI and big data tools to investigate the interaction between soil salinity and soil organic carbon – an important part of healthy soil that stores nutrients, holds water and supports plants.
Part of this analysis revealed a general negative correlation between salinity levels and soil organic carbon content. As salinity increased, we found that the soil organic carbon content tended to decrease.
Our two studies underscore the transformative potential of AI technologies and big data analytics in understanding soil degradation. With a deeper understanding, land can be better managed through more effective mitigation policies and sustainable land use planning.
Restoration at scale
Large-scale land restoration can transform degraded soils. In the Loess plateau in China, centuries of deforestation and unsustainable farming have led to significant ecological challenges. Loess soils (a type not limited to this location in China, formed essentially by the accumulation of wind-blown dust) are easily eroded because they are made up of fine and loose particles.
Degradation here has led to more frequent floods, droughts and dust storms because soil degradation is often associated with compaction. This reduces the ability of soil to absorb and hold water.
In the 1990s, this prompted the Chinese government to invest in reforestation and sustainable agriculture. This led to the landmark Loess plateau watershed rehabilitation project, with the main goal of boosting farming and incomes on 15,600km² of land in the Yellow River’s tributary area. The total project cost of US$150 million, partly funded by the World Bank, was approved in 1994.
Elsewhere, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, the EthioTrees project was launched in 2016 to tackle land degradation through community-based reforestation, enclosures to limit grazing, and reinvestment of funds generated through climate finance mechanisms.
Tree planting and other efforts have transformed the Tigray region of Ethiopia into a more fertile landscape. Jon Duncan/Shutterstock
But the Loess plateau and Tigray projects have been complex and expensive. A lot of coordination between people across huge regions and in different sectors is required to ensure a successful, integrated approach. AI can take these successful but resource-intensive restoration efforts and help scale them up.
I’m also involved with a European Commission-funded project called AI4SoilHealth, which aims to advance the use of AI to monitor and quantify soil health across Europe. This project shows how data-driven initiatives can support more sustainable land management policies by providing timely, actionable information to governments, farmers and other stakeholders such as landowners, agribusiness companies and local communities.
By integrating satellite imagery with accurate data about soil properties in different locations, AI can help develop robust, scalable models that cross local boundaries. Knowing where best to invest money, resources and effort in scaling up soil health solutions will help protect people, businesses and ecosystems from extreme events in the future.
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Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
UK turns the screw on Putin as allies unite behind Ukraine
The Prime Minister has ramped up economic pressure on Russia with a raft of new sanctions.
30 new UK sanctions hit Russian finance, military and energy targets
Prime Minister ramps up pressure at G7 Summit as Putin continues to avoid peace.
Comes after further devastating Russian attacks on Kyiv in the last few hours
The Prime Minister has ramped up economic pressure on Russia with a raft of new sanctions, as he galvanises support behind Ukraine at the G7 Summit in Canada today.
The 30 targets strike across Russia’s financial, military and energy sectors in response to Putin’s continued aggression. His repeated refusals to engage seriously in peace has redoubled the UK’s resolve to apply a stranglehold on the Russian economy.
The new sanctions crack down further on Putin’s shadow fleet, targeting 20 of his oil tankers. The UK is also tightening the net around those who enable Putin’s illicit oil trade, sanctioning Orion Star Group LLC and Valegro LLC-FZ, for their role in crewing and managing shadow fleet vessels.
Today’s action also targets Russia’s military capabilities, hitting the military agency leading the development of Russia’s underwater intelligence gathering operations (GUGI), protecting the UK from attacks on subsea infrastructure, restricting Putin’s war machine and increasing our security at home.
In addition, two UK residents Vladimir Pristoupa and Olech Tkacz operating a shadowy network of shell companies, have now been sanctioned for collectively funnelling over $120 million of electronics, many of which are on the Common High Priority goods list, to Russia.
These individuals, who live and own businesses in the UK, are responsible for supplying Russia with high tech electronics which are crucial to Putin’s war effort. The UK will not tolerate those who enable Putin to wage his illegal war, and today’s sanctions demonstrate there is nowhere to hide.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“These sanctions strike right at the heart of Putin’s war machine, choking off his ability to continue his barbaric war in Ukraine.
“We know that our sanctions are hitting hard, so while Putin shows total disregard for peace, we will not hesitate to keep tightening the screws.
“The threat posed by Russia cannot be underestimated, so I’m determined to take every step necessary to protect our national security and keep our country safe and secure.”
Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:
“With his continued attacks and needless bloodshed, it is clear that Putin has no interest in peace.
“Today’s sanctions show we will systematically dismantle his dangerous shadow fleet, starve his war machine, and support Ukraine to defend itself.
“The UK and our allies will not sit idly by whilst Putin’s cowardly inaction continues to cost lives.”
The UK also plans to move with partners to tighten the Oil Price Cap to hurt Russia’s oil revenues, while ensuring stability of the energy market.
We are determined to hit Putin where it hurts by striking at his oil revenues – the single most important source of funding for his barbaric war.
Additional infomation
GUGI is the common name for the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research within Russia’s Ministry of Defence.
arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul participated in an economic development roundtable with Northeastern Governors and Canadian Premiers in Boston, Massachusetts.
VIDEO: The event is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).
AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.
PHOTOS: The Governor’s Flickr page will post photos of the event here.
A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:
First of all, thank you to Governor Maura Healey for inviting us here to the beautiful Massachusetts State House and convening the Northeastern Governors as well as the Eastern Canadian Premiers and Representatives. It’s an important conversation, and perhaps it should have started at the outset because we’re reminding ourselves of the shared interests, the common bond that exists between all of us.
It’s not just the tourism or the industries that the governor just spoke of — it’s our neighbors. These are relationships that have now been damaged because of rhetoric out of Washington as well as tariffs. Which, how do you spell tariff? It is nothing more than a T-A-X — tax. And Americans need to know that this is a tax on everything they buy, and it hurts our competitiveness and we stand to lose hundreds of thousands of jobs if these truly go into effect as envisioned.
So I always want to call out what this is all about as well as condemning the insults to our Canadian friends, and we want them to come back to our country, but we understand the anger that they feel. But I’m worried about families in New York State and the additional cost that they’re going to spend on everything, including energy.
Energy is now becoming a huge cost driver for our homes, and we have great relationships. Next year, we’ll power over one million homes with hydroelectric power from Quebec. That starts because you have a friendship, a relationship of trust and I’m very excited about announcing that I launched it in my very first days as Governor.
The electric grid is so important because we’re bringing Micron, we’re bringing semiconductor manufacturers, we’re bringing artificial intelligence companies that are going to be huge consumers of power. And I want to make sure that we continue being as competitive as we can.
But we have to use that, and Canada has been a friend of ours in providing this, so I don’t want any more rhetoric, tariffs or anything that’s going to set our relationship further back than it already has been. Now it’s time to start healing and having our own individual relationships between New York, our own states and the various provinces to secure our energy future regardless of what happens in Washington.
We have to operate as independent actors in this space and think of ourselves because clearly Washington is not, and I apologize. I have to get back to the great State of New York because it’s always complicated — something’s always complicated.
SAN DIEGO, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC announced today that financial advisors Matthew Sweeney, CFP®, John Folsom and Tanner Carter, CFP®, have launched a new independent practice, EverMark Investment Partners (“EverMark”), through affiliation with LPL Financial’s supported independence model, LPL Strategic Wealth. They reported serving approximately $425 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets* and join LPL from RBC.
Based in San Diego, Folsom and Sweeney have collaborated since 1996 and bring a combined seven decades of financial industry experience to the practice. Carter, who entered the financial industry in 2019, completes the team. Together with Senior Investment Associates Nomah Cronk and Kristin Garnica, the team takes a collaborative approach to helping their clients work towards more secure financial futures.
“We are fortunate to have longevity and loyalty with our clients — in fact, nearly half of our clients are multigenerational,” Sweeney said. “When clients work with us, we offer them the experience of a long-tenured team, the discipline of active portfolio management and the perspective that comes from working with multiple generations over time. We value direct communication, mutual respect and clear thinking. And while our work is serious, we never lose sight of the people we serve or the trust they place in us.”
Why the EverMark team made the move to LPL Strategic Wealth
EverMark chose to affiliate via LPL’s comprehensive supported independence solution, LPL Strategic Wealth Services (SW), which combines the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship with hands-on business services and support to help practices thrive, both operationally and strategically.
In addition to access to LPL’s innovative wealth management platform and sophisticated resources, SW advisors benefit from a truly integrated service that includes simplified pricing, technology and dedicated support to launch their practice. Then, after the transition is complete, SW teams receive ongoing operations support managed by their team of experienced professionals including a business strategist, marketing partner, CFO and administrative assistant. Advisors have one point of contact, a dedicated team and priority access to advocacy and project management for complex business issues, ultimately allowing them to stay focused on the enduring needs of their clients and the culture and evolution of their practice.
With the move, EverMark Investment Partners becomes the 50th team to join Strategic Wealth, LPL’s breakaway solution for growth-oriented advisors who are looking for the best of both worlds — full independence and full support. Established in 2020, Strategic Wealth was designed to support the unique needs of established advisors in wirehouses and other firms seeking to launch independent practices.
“LPL’s Strategic Wealth model is unlike anything else in the market today,” Folsom said. “It takes the best aspects of being RIAs — owning our own business, our client relationships belonging to us, choice in technology and services, optimal succession solutions — and packages it with an outstanding process to help us set up our business for success from day one. It’s an honor knowing that EverMark is the 50th team to join LPL’s Strategic Wealth, and we are proud to join this community of like-minded advisors.”
Carter added, “With LPL’s best-in-class technology and strategic business resources, we will be able to provide more personalized investment options and enhanced service experiences. I am confident that moving to LPL and LPL Strategic Wealth was the right move for our business — and, more importantly, our clients.
Scott Posner, LPL Managing Director, Business Development, said, “We welcome the EverMark Investment Partners team and congratulate them on going independent with LPL Strategic Wealth and becoming the 50th team in the model. Just as Matt, John and Tanner take a personalized approach to helping their clients pursue their fiscal goals, LPL offers the strategic support and innovative resources advisors can use to deliver differentiated client experiences. We look forward to supporting this team for years to come.”
LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports over 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.8 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 7 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC.
Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.
We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.
*Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from end of year, 2024.
SAN DIEGO, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC announced today that financial advisors Matthew Sweeney, CFP®, John Folsom and Tanner Carter, CFP®, have launched a new independent practice, EverMark Investment Partners (“EverMark”), through affiliation with LPL Financial’s supported independence model, LPL Strategic Wealth. They reported serving approximately $425 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets* and join LPL from RBC.
Based in San Diego, Folsom and Sweeney have collaborated since 1996 and bring a combined seven decades of financial industry experience to the practice. Carter, who entered the financial industry in 2019, completes the team. Together with Senior Investment Associates Nomah Cronk and Kristin Garnica, the team takes a collaborative approach to helping their clients work towards more secure financial futures.
“We are fortunate to have longevity and loyalty with our clients — in fact, nearly half of our clients are multigenerational,” Sweeney said. “When clients work with us, we offer them the experience of a long-tenured team, the discipline of active portfolio management and the perspective that comes from working with multiple generations over time. We value direct communication, mutual respect and clear thinking. And while our work is serious, we never lose sight of the people we serve or the trust they place in us.”
Why the EverMark team made the move to LPL Strategic Wealth
EverMark chose to affiliate via LPL’s comprehensive supported independence solution, LPL Strategic Wealth Services (SW), which combines the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship with hands-on business services and support to help practices thrive, both operationally and strategically.
In addition to access to LPL’s innovative wealth management platform and sophisticated resources, SW advisors benefit from a truly integrated service that includes simplified pricing, technology and dedicated support to launch their practice. Then, after the transition is complete, SW teams receive ongoing operations support managed by their team of experienced professionals including a business strategist, marketing partner, CFO and administrative assistant. Advisors have one point of contact, a dedicated team and priority access to advocacy and project management for complex business issues, ultimately allowing them to stay focused on the enduring needs of their clients and the culture and evolution of their practice.
With the move, EverMark Investment Partners becomes the 50th team to join Strategic Wealth, LPL’s breakaway solution for growth-oriented advisors who are looking for the best of both worlds — full independence and full support. Established in 2020, Strategic Wealth was designed to support the unique needs of established advisors in wirehouses and other firms seeking to launch independent practices.
“LPL’s Strategic Wealth model is unlike anything else in the market today,” Folsom said. “It takes the best aspects of being RIAs — owning our own business, our client relationships belonging to us, choice in technology and services, optimal succession solutions — and packages it with an outstanding process to help us set up our business for success from day one. It’s an honor knowing that EverMark is the 50th team to join LPL’s Strategic Wealth, and we are proud to join this community of like-minded advisors.”
Carter added, “With LPL’s best-in-class technology and strategic business resources, we will be able to provide more personalized investment options and enhanced service experiences. I am confident that moving to LPL and LPL Strategic Wealth was the right move for our business — and, more importantly, our clients.
Scott Posner, LPL Managing Director, Business Development, said, “We welcome the EverMark Investment Partners team and congratulate them on going independent with LPL Strategic Wealth and becoming the 50th team in the model. Just as Matt, John and Tanner take a personalized approach to helping their clients pursue their fiscal goals, LPL offers the strategic support and innovative resources advisors can use to deliver differentiated client experiences. We look forward to supporting this team for years to come.”
LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports over 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.8 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 7 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC.
Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.
We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.
*Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from end of year, 2024.
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, announced the findings of its seventh annual global Public Sector Enterprise Cloud Index (ECI) survey and research report, which measures enterprise progress with cloud adoption in the industry. The research showed that 83% of public sector organizations have a GenAI strategy in place, with 54% actively implementing, and 29% preparing for implementation.
As public sector organizations ramp up GenAI adoption, 76% of IT decision-makers say their current infrastructure needs moderate to significant improvement to support modern, cloud native applications at scale. This year’s public sector ECI found that infrastructure modernization emerged as a top priority, underscoring the growing demand for systems capable of meeting GenAI’s requirements for enterprise-ready data security, data integrity, and resilience.
This year’s report also revealed that public sector leaders are increasingly leveraging GenAI applications/workloads into their organizations. Real-world GenAI use cases across the public sector gravitate towards constituent/employee support and experience solutions (e.g., chatbots) and content generation. However, concerns remain with 92% of public sector leaders highlighting the need for their organizations to do more to secure GenAI models and applications. The results of that need, according to 96% of respondents, is security and privacy becoming higher priorities for their organizations.
“Generative AI is no longer a future concept, it’s already transforming how we work,” said Greg O’Connell, VP, Federal Sales, Public Sector at Nutanix. “94% of public sector organizations are already putting AI to work and expect returns in as little as one year. As public sector leaders look to see outcomes, now is the time to invest in AI-ready infrastructure, data security, privacy, and training to ensure long-term success.”
Public sector survey respondents were asked about GenAI adoptions and trends, Kubernetes and containers, how they’re running business and mission critical applications today, and where they plan to run them in the future. Key findings from this year’s report include:
GenAI solution adoption and deployment in the public sector will necessitate a more comprehensive approach to data security. Public sector respondents indicate a significant amount of work needs to be done to improve the foundational levels of data security/governance required to support GenAI solution implementation and success. 92% of public sector respondents agree that their organization could be doing more to secure its GenAI models and applications. Luckily, many IT decision-makers in the public sector are aware of this impending sea change, with 96% of respondents agreeing that GenAI is changing their organization’s priorities, with security and privacy becoming higher priorities.
Prioritize infrastructure modernization to support GenAI at scale across public sector organizations. Running modern applications at enterprise scale requires infrastructure solutions that can support the necessary requirements for complex data security, data integrity, and resilience. Unfortunately, 76% of respondents in the public sector believe their current IT infrastructure requires at least moderate improvement to fully support cloud native apps/containers. Furthermore, IT infrastructure investment was ranked as a top area of improvement among public sector respondents, a sign that IT decision-makers are aware of the need to improve.
GenAI solution adoption in the public sector continues at a rapid pace, but there are still challenges to overcome. When it comes to GenAI adoption, public sector metrics show progress, with 94% of respondents saying their organization is leveraging GenAI applications/workloads today. Most public sector organizations believe GenAI solutions will help improve levels of productivity, automation, and efficiency. However, organizations in the public sector also note a range of challenges and potential hindrances regarding GenAI solution development and deployment, including data security and privacy, and the need for continued upskilling and hiring to support new GenAI projects/solutions.
Application containerization and Kubernetes deployment are expanding across the public sector. Application containerization is increasingly pervasive across industry sectors and is set to expand in adoption across the public sector as well, with 96% of segment respondents saying their organization is at least in the process of containerizing applications. This trend may be driven by the fact that 91% of respondents in the public sector agree their organization benefits from adopting cloud native applications/containers.
For the seventh consecutive year, Nutanix commissioned a global research study to learn about the state of global enterprise cloud deployments, application containerization trends, and GenAI application adoption. In the Fall of 2024, U.K. researcher Vanson Bourne surveyed 1,500 IT and DevOps/Platform Engineering decision-makers around the world. The respondent base spanned multiple industries, business sizes, and geographies, including North and South America; Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA); and Asia-Pacific-Japan (APJ) region.
To learn more about the report and findings, please download the full Public Sector Nutanix Enterprise Cloud Index, here and read more in the blog here.
About Nutanix Nutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Micropolis Holding Co. (“Micropolis” or the “Company”) (NYSE: MCRP), a pioneer in unmanned ground vehicles and AI-driven security solutions, today announced it is now participating on the Webull Corporate Connect Service (CCS) platform to increase engagement and transparency with its growing investor base.
Micropolis’s portal on the Webull CCS provides an additional direct communication channel for shareholders and potential investors, reinforcing the Company’s commitment to providing real-time information to the investment community. Through Webull, Micropolis will share timely updates, including company news, earnings reports, presentations, and other key announcements, further increasing visibility among retail investors as well as broadening shareholder engagement.
“Open and ongoing dialogue with our shareholders and the broader investment community remains a key focus of our corporate governance framework at Micropolis,” said Fareed Aljawhari, Founder & CEO of Micropolis. “As we advance our strategic objectives and expand our operations, we understand how critical it is to enhance our market presence. Integrating Webull’s digital platform into our investor outreach efforts enables us to connect with retail investors on their preferred channels, delivering immediate access to company updates and interactive engagement opportunities.”
To stay up to date with Micropolis’s recent developments on the Webull Corporate Connect Service Platform, current Webull users can follow MCRP from the app on their smartphone or tablet device. To download the app and register for your free Webull account, visit www.webull.com/trading-platforms.
About Micropolis Holding Co. Micropolis is a UAE-based company specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), AI systems, and smart infrastructure for urban, security, and industrial applications. The Company’s vertically integrated capabilities cover everything from mechatronics and embedded systems to AI software and high-level autonomy.
About Webull Financial Webull Corporation owns and operates Webull, a leading digital investment platform built on next-generation global infrastructure. Through its global network of licensed brokerages, Webull offers investment services in 14 markets across North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America. Webull serves more than 24 million registered users globally, providing retail investors with 24/7 access to global financial markets. Users can put investment strategies to work by trading global stocks, ETFs, options, futures, and fractional shares through Webull’s trading platform, which seamlessly integrates market data and information, its user community, and investor education resources. Learn more at www.webullcorp.com. You may also access certain information on Webull and its securities on the website of the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, where Webull will, among others, be filing reports, such as Reports on Form 6-K and its Annual Report on Form 20-F.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “project”, “plan”, “intend”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “can have”, “likely” and other words and terms of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements represent Micropolis’ current expectations regarding future events and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed by the Company with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.
Investor Contact: KCSA Strategic Communications Valter Pinto, Managing Director PH: (212) 896-1254 Valter@KCSA.com
Mid-year auto market analysis reveals how tariffs and ongoing demand for affordability have influenced vehicle supply, pricing, and demand so far this year
BOSTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG), the No. 1 visited digital auto platform for shopping, buying, and selling new and used vehicles1, today released its 2025 Mid-Year Auto Market Review. The analysis highlights the impact of tariff uncertainty, shifting inventory dynamics, and evolving consumer preferences on the new and used vehicle market.
“So far this year, the auto market has been shaped by dramatic shifts in consumer behavior fueled by shifting policies and economic uncertainty,” said Kevin Roberts, Director of Economic and Market Intelligence at CarGurus. “These pressures have amplified what car shoppers demand most: affordability and efficiency. While vehicle prices have mostly held steady despite tariffs, it remains to be seen how long the current balance of pricing and demand can last, especially as value-driven options become harder to find.”
Tariff-driven sales surge has reduced affordable new inventory: New vehicle sales spiked 48% year-over-year in the days after the March tariff announcement as buyers raced to beat potential price increases. While sales demand has since normalized to more seasonal patterns, the affordable segment is showing lasting impacts. Listings for new cars under $30,000 have dropped by 15% since late March, with compacts and crossovers like the Honda Civic, Buick Encore GX, Jeep Compass, and Mazda CX-30 seeing the steepest declines.
The average new vehicle price is holding steady: While over 60% of new vehicle listings today are post-tariff inventory, the average new car price has remained relatively stable at approximately $49,600. Model-level price changes tell a more nuanced story, with luxury SUVs seeing some of the largest price increases since tariffs went into effect in April and electric vehicles (EVs) posting the biggest price decreases.
Aged new car inventory may offer value: Despite the Spring sales surge, 2024 and older model-year vehicles are maintaining a high share of inventory — approaching levels not seen since 2020. At mid-year, over 7% of new car listings were 2024 or older, with Ford trucks and SUVs among the top models with older model year supply, creating a chance for shoppers to find a potential deal on pre-tariff inventory.
Used inventory reaches multi-year highs, but value has been redefined: Despite abundant used car supply, 3- to 4-year-old models — the sweet spot for value-conscious buyers — remain scarce and priced at a premium due to lingering effects of pandemic-era production disruptions. For those in the market for a used car under $20,000, options are increasingly older and higher mileage. At both ends of the age spectrum, however, fuel-efficient models (spanning hybrids, EVs, and compacts) lead the pack in demand.
Hybrids stand out for pricing and demand: Hybrids continued to lead new vehicle sales growth in 2025, buoyed by strong demand and attractive pricing. Average list prices for new hybrids decreased by about $1,400 year-over-year, helping drive a 43% increase in retail sales compared to 2024. Notably, hybrid and gas models are now the most commonly cross-shopped combinations, as shoppers increasingly prioritize practicality and affordability.
For a deeper look at these trends and more, the full 2025 Mid-Year Review is available here: https://cargur.us/1dRcr8
About CarGurus, Inc.
CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with both digital retail solutions and the CarOffer online wholesale platform. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, instantly acquire, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the most visited automotive shopping site in the U.S. 1
CarGurus also operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in Canada and the U.K. In the U.S. and the U.K., CarGurus also operates the Autolist and PistonHeads online marketplaces, respectively, as independent brands.
CarGurus® is a registered trademark of CarGurus, Inc., and CarOffer® is a registered trademark of CarOffer, LLC. All other product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
1Similarweb: Traffic Report [Cars.com, Autotrader, TrueCar, CARFAX Listings (defined as CARFAX Total visits minus Vehicle History Reports traffic)], Q1 2025, U.S.
Media Contact: Maggie Meluzio Director, Public Relations & External Communications pr@cargurus.com
WASHINGTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ibex (NASDAQ: IBEX), the leading global provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) and AI-powered CX solutions, today announced the winners of the 2025 CX Leadership Awards, which honor the top customer experience (CX) innovators, leaders, and contributors around the world.
This year’s winners, who were chosen from an ultra-competitive list of CX pioneers, were recognized last week at ibex’s Fourth Annual CX Leadership Awards Dinner Customer Contact Week (CCW) in Las Vegas.
“Congratulations to the 2025 CX Leadership Award winners, whose vision, innovation, and leadership are raising the bar for customer experience and delivering amazing experiences for their respective brands,” said Julie Casteel, Chief Strategic Accounts Officer and CMO at ibex.
The 2025 CX Leadership Award winners are:
Natalie Beckerman, Global Head of Customer Support Operations at IHG Hotels & Resorts: Known as a disruptor in CX and contact center strategy, Natalie’s led high-performing teams across the U.S., U.K., and EMEA—driving operational excellence, growth, and cultural reinvention. A perfect example of her bold energy, global expertise, and a passion for transformation was overhauling a home services company’s operating model in just a year—introducing AI, launching two new platforms, and saving millions while transforming the customer journey. For Natalie, great CX isn’t just about ‘wow’ moments: it’s proactive, emotional, and seamless—across every touchpoint, every time.
Jeremy Victor, Chief Customer Officer at Noom: Jeremy is pioneering the future of customer experience by blending AI innovation with emotional intelligence to deliver scalable, human-centered interactions. At Noom, he’s leading the transformation of customer service into Experience Manufacturing™—a new discipline built around emotional equity, brand affinity, and AI-driven personalization. From building one of the first mobile CX tools on a Palm Pilot to launching MoreScore.ai, Jeremy’s career spans decades of redefining how brands build trust, loyalty, and lasting impact. His work challenges the industry to modernize systems, humanize technology, and remember that the strongest connections are always personal.
Lionel Holguin, Head of Customer Service and Collections at Bridgecrest: Lionel’s passion for problem-solving and creating value at every customer touchpoint defines his career. His proactive approach to CX combines strategy, empathy, and innovation to remove friction, foster trust, and create lasting emotional connections. One defining achievement was reworking key workflows and training to focus on financial literacy and empathy, centered on truly listening to customers and frontline teams—resulting in a dramatic shift in customer sentiment and team morale.
Lisa Wysocky, Senior Director of Partner and Channel Management Operations at Sonos: Lisa’s grit, heart, and deep CX expertise make her an obvious choice for a CX Leadership Award. From her early days as a bank teller to leading large-scale retention at SiriusXM, she has always stayed close to the frontlines, where real customer impact happens. At Sonos, she’s leading a transformation: empowering agents with AI, scaling global partnerships, and building a support system designed to evolve and drive long-term CX excellence.
Michael Jones, Senior Director of Customer Care at The Home Depot: With over 30 years at The Home Depot, Michael’s career is defined by servant leadership, transformation, and a true belief in people. Today, he supports a team of 3,000+ associates across The Home Depot’s contact centers and multiple disciplines delivering excellence within the millions of contacts they receive. Michael has reinvented the experience of his associates and customers—while building a culture where people-first values are lived daily.
Ryan Moore, Vice President of Customer Support & Global BPO Strategy at DailyPay: In Ryan’s 20+ years of CX leadership, he has always held true to one core principle: do what’s right for the customer, not just what’s best for the bottom line. Ryan has successfully led large-scale CX transformations with clarity and care, including a global expansion of support into a follow-the-sun model that helped CSAT and QA soar. His unwavering focus on the customer—paired with his commitment to operational excellence—has helped Ryan build a truly global, customer-centric CX ecosystem.
Vanessa Hardy-Bowen, Director of Guest Care and Contact Centers at Spirit Airlines: Vanessa views every guest interaction as a chance to either deepen trust or weaken it. She is focused on designing customer experiences that are not only functional but deeply human-rooted in empathy, foresight, and accountability. At Spirit, Vanessa spearheaded a full transformation of the guest care model: launching AI and self-service tools, elevating training and QA, and aligning digital innovation with human connection. Despite and challenging time in travel, the results have been impressive: higher customer satisfaction, smarter operations, and a stronger team.
The ibex CX Leadership Awards spotlight the individuals and organizations whose vision and innovation are transforming the customer experience industry. Honorees excel in enabling seamless customer engagement, creating extraordinary customer experiences, and streamlining the customer journey.
“ibex is leading the way in reshaping the customer experience by combining the latest AI technology with deep CX expertise gained from helping the world’s most iconic brands deliver differentiated customer experiences. We automate the routine and empower human agents to solve the complex,” added Casteel.
ibex expertly combines unparalleled CX expertise with cutting-edge AI technology to create groundbreaking AI-powered solutions. ibex Wave iX solutions refine and elevate customer interactions and ensure a seamless customer journey while accelerating growth, enhancing service delivery, and maximizing impact.
About ibex
ibex delivers innovative business process outsourcing (BPO), smart digital marketing, online acquisition technology, and end-to-end customer engagement solutions to help companies acquire, engage and retain valuable customers. Today, ibex operates a global CX delivery center model consisting of approximately 30 operations facilities around the world, while deploying next generation technology to drive superior customer experiences for many of the world’s leading companies across retail, e-commerce, healthcare, fintech, utilities and logistics.
ibex leverages its diverse global team of more than 31,000 employees together with industry-leading technology, including its AI-powered ibex Wave iX solutions suite, to manage nearly 175 million critical customer interactions, adding over $2.2B in lifetime customer revenue each year and driving a truly differentiated customer experience. To learn more, visit our website at ibex.co and connect with us on LinkedIn.
68% of employees believe they’re underpaid, even when their compensation is at or above market rates
Employees who believe they’re paid unfairly are 45% more likely to look for a new role, regardless of their actual compensation
Employees who work for organizations with high levels of pay transparency are 59% less likely to leave
BOSTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Payscale Inc., the leading provider of compensation intelligence solutions, today released its 2025 Fair Pay Impact Report, highlighting a growing gap between employee perceptions of fair pay and reality. More than two thirds (68%) of employees report being underpaid, even when earning at or above market rates. As a result, many employers are exposing themselves to an increased risk of losing top talent. Payscale’s analysis shows that employees who think they’re paid unfairly are 45% more likely to look for a new job, regardless of their actual compensation.
The gap between perceptions of fair pay and reality has grown significantly since 2021, when just half (51%) of employees earning at or above market felt underpaid. Despite rising salaries and improved pay transparency, employee misperceptions of unfair pay have surged. This suggests that employers’ current communication strategies around compensation are falling short.
Pay transparency is an important factor in combatting pay misperceptions and boosting employee retention. Employees who work for organizations with high levels of pay transparency are 59% less likely to leave relative to non-transparent organizations. Amid a growing wave of pay transparency legislation in states and cities across the US, one in three US employees is now covered by regulations requiring greater pay disclosure. While compliance is essential, the report’s findings suggest there is more work for employers to do internally to communicate transparently about compensation.
“Pay misinformation and ineffective communication are undermining employer efforts to build trust among employees. This pay perception gap poses a real threat to retaining high performers,” said Ruth Thomas, chief compensation strategist, Payscale. “While more employees are covered by pay transparency laws than ever before, compliance alone is not enough. Employers must build transparent compensation strategies rooted in data so they can communicate with confidence, consistency, and clarity to help employees understand what fair pay looks like for their role and prevent regrettable attrition. Employers must treat retention of key talent as an always-on priority, regardless of whether it’s an employer or employee market – waiting until the market shifts could put top performers at risk. By the time signs of attrition appear, it may already be too late.”
The research shows most employees don’t know whether they’re being paid fairly. Of those employees who reported being paid unfairly, only a third (32%) are actually below market. Among employees who are paid above market, almost half (47%) believe they are underpaid. This rises to almost two thirds (63%) among employees paid at market. Among job seekers, almost two thirds (65%) have a poor perception of their current pay, further highlighting the critical role that employee perceptions of fair pay play in retention.
Despite the spike in inflation from 2020 through 2022, cumulative wage growth has outpaced inflation since 2019, rising 30% compared to a 27% increase in cumulative inflation. This is true across industries. However, salary increases are not equally applied across all jobs and low wage earners in particular are more likely to be disproportionately impacted by the rising cost of living.
“Even when pay is fair, many employees don’t believe it because perceptions around fair compensation are deeply subjective. These misperceptions are common, and leaders must prioritize building trust to retain their top performing employees,” said Lexi Clarke, chief people officer, Payscale. “That starts with confidence in their pay data, structures, and strategy, and requires clearly communicating the rationale behind pay decisions, understanding the factors that influence compensation, and equipping managers to have better pay conversations. The goal is for employees to not only understand whys behind how their pay is calculated, but ideally how they can increase their compensation and grow within the organization, helping support long-term retention and prevent top talent from walking out the door.”
The 2025 Fair Pay Impact Report analyzes data from more than 325,000 respondents to Payscale’s online salary survey taken between January 1, 2021 and January 1, 2025. The full report and its methodology can be accessed at: https://www.payscale.com/research-and-insights/fair-pay-impact/.
About Payscale
Payscale stands at the forefront of compensation data technology, pioneering an innovative approach that harnesses advanced AI and up-to-date and reliable market data to align employee and employer expectations. With its suite of solutions—Payfactors, Marketpay, and Paycycle—Payscale empowers 65% of Fortune 500 companies to make strategic compensation decisions. Organizations like Panasonic, ZoomInfo, Chipotle, AccentCare, University of Washington, American Airlines, and Rite Aid rely on its unique combination of actionable data and insights, experienced compensation services, and scalable software to drive business success. By partnering with Payscale, businesses can make confident compensation decisions that fuel growth for both their organization and their people.
ANDOVER, Mass., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MKS Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI) (“MKS”), a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, was again recognized by U.S. News & World Report (“U.S. News”) as one of the 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For. MKS was rated as a top company in the Manufacturing and Agriculture Industries category based on factors contributing to job seekers’ decision-making when choosing a workplace that best meets their needs.
“Receiving this prestigious recognition for the third consecutive year is a testament to the innovative work we do and the supportive organizational climate we have cultivated,” said John T.C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer at MKS. “Our success rests on our ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals who are committed to advancing technology and serving as invaluable partners to our customers. We are grateful for this acknowledgement of our efforts to provide engaging and meaningful careers for our employees.”
U.S. News’ ratings reflect the evolving sentiments that factor into employee decision-making when choosing the “best” company to work for. The ratings then analyze that sentiment against other factors, including quality of pay and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, belongingness and esteem, and career opportunities and professional development.
“Choosing a company to establish yourself or advance your career is a crucial decision for anyone,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list features companies that excelled across various metrics, contributing to a positive work environment and the daily employee experience.”
To calculate the annual U.S. News Best Companies to Work For list, U.S. News only considered the largest 5,000 publicly traded companies as of January 2025 that had more than 75 Glassdoor reviews written between 2021-2025. Relevant data, including employee sentiment and regulatory enforcement data, was gathered from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to calculate the six metrics used in the list. For further details on how the metric scores were calculated, see the methodology.
About MKS Inc. MKS Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI) enables technologies that transform our world. We deliver foundational technology solutions to leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial applications. We apply our broad science and engineering capabilities to create instruments, subsystems, systems, process control solutions and specialty chemicals technology that improve process performance, optimize productivity and enable unique innovations for many of the world’s leading technology and industrial companies. Our solutions are critical to addressing the challenges of miniaturization and complexity in advanced device manufacturing by enabling increased power, speed, feature enhancement, and optimized connectivity. Our solutions are also critical to addressing ever-increasing performance requirements across a wide array of specialty industrial applications. Additional information can be found at www.mks.com.
AboutU.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.
ANDOVER, Mass., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MKS Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI) (“MKS”), a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, was again recognized by U.S. News & World Report (“U.S. News”) as one of the 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For. MKS was rated as a top company in the Manufacturing and Agriculture Industries category based on factors contributing to job seekers’ decision-making when choosing a workplace that best meets their needs.
“Receiving this prestigious recognition for the third consecutive year is a testament to the innovative work we do and the supportive organizational climate we have cultivated,” said John T.C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer at MKS. “Our success rests on our ability to attract and retain highly talented professionals who are committed to advancing technology and serving as invaluable partners to our customers. We are grateful for this acknowledgement of our efforts to provide engaging and meaningful careers for our employees.”
U.S. News’ ratings reflect the evolving sentiments that factor into employee decision-making when choosing the “best” company to work for. The ratings then analyze that sentiment against other factors, including quality of pay and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, belongingness and esteem, and career opportunities and professional development.
“Choosing a company to establish yourself or advance your career is a crucial decision for anyone,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list features companies that excelled across various metrics, contributing to a positive work environment and the daily employee experience.”
To calculate the annual U.S. News Best Companies to Work For list, U.S. News only considered the largest 5,000 publicly traded companies as of January 2025 that had more than 75 Glassdoor reviews written between 2021-2025. Relevant data, including employee sentiment and regulatory enforcement data, was gathered from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to calculate the six metrics used in the list. For further details on how the metric scores were calculated, see the methodology.
About MKS Inc. MKS Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI) enables technologies that transform our world. We deliver foundational technology solutions to leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial applications. We apply our broad science and engineering capabilities to create instruments, subsystems, systems, process control solutions and specialty chemicals technology that improve process performance, optimize productivity and enable unique innovations for many of the world’s leading technology and industrial companies. Our solutions are critical to addressing the challenges of miniaturization and complexity in advanced device manufacturing by enabling increased power, speed, feature enhancement, and optimized connectivity. Our solutions are also critical to addressing ever-increasing performance requirements across a wide array of specialty industrial applications. Additional information can be found at www.mks.com.
AboutU.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.
RESTON, Va., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Regula, a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions, introduces the first-ever device designed for fast and trustworthy detection of morphed facial images in identity documents. The new morphing detectorRegula 4166is a compact, pen-sized tool that effectively addresses the growing challenge of face morphing, a technique where two facial images are blended to create a single photo resembling several individuals.
Face morphing poses significant security risks at border controls and other identity verification points. The dangers of this threat are not limited to illegal border crossings; it also facilitates other types of crimes such as labor crime, modern-day slavery, organized crime, and terrorism.
Though not new and less sophisticated than other identity fraud techniques, face morphing is very difficult to identify, even with advanced forensic equipment. To do it “the traditional way,” a document examiner has to conduct multiple checks, scrutinizing a facial image under various lights and angles of observation. In this case, success largely depends on the specialist’s competency.
The new morphing detector Regula 4166
The new Regula 4166 is a game changer. Designed specifically to highlight overprinting traces (typical of morphing), like paint droplets, it provides the necessary visualization of the photo surface and structure. It is achieved thanks to a special lighting mode and a specific camera angle that enables three-dimensional visualization. As a result, face morphing is identified with visual certainty.
Key features of the morphing detector Regula 4166
3D surface visualization: The device provides a three-dimensional view of the examined photo surface thanks to the tilted positioning of the camera and side oblique light source. It enables observation of distortions, pigment clusters, layering, and other physical inconsistencies typical of morphing.
Intuitive operation: The Regula 4166 features a straightforward, plug-and-play interface that ensures quick adoption and efficient use without extensive training.
Supplied software for instant usage: It comes with easy-to-use software that displays the morphing image from the device in real time and enables quick screenshots—perfect for evidence capture, fast demonstrations, or training.
Unified ecosystem: The Regula 4166 is fully compatible with a wide variety of Regula’s forensic devices, including Regula video spectral comparators. Connected to them via Regula Forensic Studio software, the Regula 4166 enables seamless integration into existing forensic setups and creates a streamlined, centralized environment for document authentication and evidence management.
Ultra-compact design: Its pen-sized form ensures maximum portability, making it ideal for both stationary and on-the-go document inspections, including first-line border control.
“The Regula 4166 fills a critical gap in identity document analysis. It’s the first tool of its kind designed specifically to expose overprinting traces typical of face morphing—fast, accurately, and informatively. Whether used on its own or as part of a larger forensic setup, this device empowers border officers, forensic experts, and other document examiners to detect one of today’s most deceptive types of fraud with confidence,” says Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula.
This launch continues Regula’s proactive response to face morphing risks. Earlier this year, the company introduced the ForensicScope Regula 4125, an all-in-one portable device equipped with a broad range of inspection tools, including face morphing detection. The new Regula 4166 builds on this effort with a focused solution tailored for mitigating this fraud technique, which often goes under the radar.
Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the most comprehensive library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies for document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security, or speed. Regula has been repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner® Market Guide for Identity Verification.
RESTON, Va., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Regula, a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions, introduces the first-ever device designed for fast and trustworthy detection of morphed facial images in identity documents. The new morphing detectorRegula 4166is a compact, pen-sized tool that effectively addresses the growing challenge of face morphing, a technique where two facial images are blended to create a single photo resembling several individuals.
Face morphing poses significant security risks at border controls and other identity verification points. The dangers of this threat are not limited to illegal border crossings; it also facilitates other types of crimes such as labor crime, modern-day slavery, organized crime, and terrorism.
Though not new and less sophisticated than other identity fraud techniques, face morphing is very difficult to identify, even with advanced forensic equipment. To do it “the traditional way,” a document examiner has to conduct multiple checks, scrutinizing a facial image under various lights and angles of observation. In this case, success largely depends on the specialist’s competency.
The new morphing detector Regula 4166
The new Regula 4166 is a game changer. Designed specifically to highlight overprinting traces (typical of morphing), like paint droplets, it provides the necessary visualization of the photo surface and structure. It is achieved thanks to a special lighting mode and a specific camera angle that enables three-dimensional visualization. As a result, face morphing is identified with visual certainty.
Key features of the morphing detector Regula 4166
3D surface visualization: The device provides a three-dimensional view of the examined photo surface thanks to the tilted positioning of the camera and side oblique light source. It enables observation of distortions, pigment clusters, layering, and other physical inconsistencies typical of morphing.
Intuitive operation: The Regula 4166 features a straightforward, plug-and-play interface that ensures quick adoption and efficient use without extensive training.
Supplied software for instant usage: It comes with easy-to-use software that displays the morphing image from the device in real time and enables quick screenshots—perfect for evidence capture, fast demonstrations, or training.
Unified ecosystem: The Regula 4166 is fully compatible with a wide variety of Regula’s forensic devices, including Regula video spectral comparators. Connected to them via Regula Forensic Studio software, the Regula 4166 enables seamless integration into existing forensic setups and creates a streamlined, centralized environment for document authentication and evidence management.
Ultra-compact design: Its pen-sized form ensures maximum portability, making it ideal for both stationary and on-the-go document inspections, including first-line border control.
“The Regula 4166 fills a critical gap in identity document analysis. It’s the first tool of its kind designed specifically to expose overprinting traces typical of face morphing—fast, accurately, and informatively. Whether used on its own or as part of a larger forensic setup, this device empowers border officers, forensic experts, and other document examiners to detect one of today’s most deceptive types of fraud with confidence,” says Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula.
This launch continues Regula’s proactive response to face morphing risks. Earlier this year, the company introduced the ForensicScope Regula 4125, an all-in-one portable device equipped with a broad range of inspection tools, including face morphing detection. The new Regula 4166 builds on this effort with a focused solution tailored for mitigating this fraud technique, which often goes under the radar.
Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the most comprehensive library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies for document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security, or speed. Regula has been repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner® Market Guide for Identity Verification.
MALVERN, Pa. and LOS ANGELES , June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 2X, a leader in subscription-based marketing as a service (MaaS), today released a new report, “Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Execution Reinvention,” in partnership with Avasant, a leading digital transformation consultancy. The new report reveals a strategic shift in B2B marketing execution, as marketers prioritize AI-driven campaigns and focus on personalization to boost performance and ROI—even in a challenging economic climate.
Marketing budgets are rising 5-10%1 this year, while headcount remains flat. Meanwhile, CMOs are being told to spend new money more effectively, avoiding the temptation to focus it solely on payroll. The only scalable levers left are strategic reallocation and AI-enabled productivity. Gartner’s latest CMO Spend Survey highlights this challenge of balancing declining marketing budgets as a percentage of revenue with high expectations for growing ROI. This landscape is driving brands to rethink traditional agency relationships and embrace more flexible, tech-enabled partnerships that accelerate speed, personalization, and innovation.
Key Findings from the Report
Budget Growth, Flat Teams: There’s an accelerating demand for external capacity. Tech growth is funded by reallocating program dollars, not cutting headcount. Less than 20%2 of the budget goes to technology, with the average budget split amongst 56% personnel and 24%3 non-personnel programs.
AI Goes Mainstream: 72%4 of CMOs now count AI-driven campaigns among their top priorities.
Execution Bottleneck: Campaign channels absorb 23% of spend and outsource 56%5 of work, making them the #1 target for hybrid MaaS models.
Tech Spend Breaks 20% Barrier: One in five marketing dollars now funds technology—double the share of five years ago, sourced from program budgets.
Outcome KPIs Rule: Net-new revenue, ROI, and CLV top the scorecard, displacing legacy funnel metrics.
Outsourcing Covering More Marketing Functions: Budgets for outsourcing rose from 39% to 42%6. Core marketing functions (e.g., brand and GTM strategy, budgeting, retention) remain largely in-house (<25%), ensuring strategic control. Specialized areas like campaigns (60.6%) and channel marketing (61.4%)7 are increasingly outsourced to tap into expertise and boost speed.
2X has grown rapidly through strategic investments, acquisitions, and deep partnerships across the B2B marketing ecosystem. As 6sense’s largest implementation partner, 2X is uniquely positioned to help clients succeed on the ABM platform that now leads the category with a 21.8% market share. 2X delivers next-generation marketing performance and capabilities by applying enterprise-grade frameworks, automation, and data-driven strategies, empowering marketing organizations of all sizes to thrive in an increasingly competitive $100B B2B marketing services market.
“The report offers a clear view into how marketers are innovating on their operating model where cost efficiency, smarter execution, and leaner teams are the new mandate,” said Domenic Colasante, CEO and Co-Founder of 2X. “At 2X, we’re committed to helping B2B enterprise marketers lead with operating impact, realize the benefit of AI, and deliver more with increasingly scarce resources.”
“Today’s CMOs face a stark choice: cling to legacy metrics and fragmented teams, or embrace a new era where technology, data, and external expertise converge,” said Swapnil Bhatnagar, Partner at Avasant. “By aligning KPIs to revenue impact and partnering for specialized skills, marketing organizations can move at the speed of the market, delivering measurable value and agility that legacy models simply can’t match.”
Methodology The report combines survey data and expert interviews to provide a comprehensive view of B2B marketing execution. It focuses on how large enterprises—those with over $250 million—are rethinking marketing outsourcing, defined as leveraging external partners for campaign execution, analytics, and content production. Insights were drawn from responses by 87 senior marketers and in-depth interviews with 11 marketing leaders, analyzed to identify key trends and strategies shaping today’s dynamic marketing environment.
About 2X 2X is a leading B2B marketing-as-a-service firm that helps marketing leaders achieve greater impact while lowering costs through its managed services delivery model. Servicing over 150 clients including SAP, Ricoh, Docker, Hyland, Seismic, Qlik, and GoTo, 2X provides dedicated and highly skilled FTEs who specialize in marketing operations, martech management, campaign execution, content and creative production, and strategy consulting services. With more than 1,000 team members globally, 2X is backed by private equity firms Recognize and Insight Partners and has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the US by Inc. and the Financial Times. For more information, visit 2X.marketing or follow us on LinkedIn.
About Avasant Avasant is a leading management consulting firm that provides digital transformation, sourcing advisory, and governance services to global enterprises. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Avasant helps organizations navigate complex business challenges and achieve sustainable growth. For more information about Avasant and how it can transform your business, please visit https://avasant.com/.
Media Contact Audree Hernandez JMAC PR for 2X 2X@jmacpr.com
1 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 14 2 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 12 3 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 24 4 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 15 5 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 12 6 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 31 7 Source: Rethinking B2B Marketing Execution: The Age of Exeuction Reinvention, May 2025, slide 7
