Thursday, April 30, 2026

PU Prime Bridges the Gap Between Knowledge and Success with Launch of Interactive “PU Community” Platform

EBENE, Mauritius, April 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PU Prime, a global multi-licensed online brokerage, announced the launch of the PU Community, an all-in-one ecosystem designed to transform retail trading from a solitary, high-risk activity into a collaborative and guided professional journey. To celebrate the rollout, PU Prime is hosting a series of engagement initiatives throughout May and June, offering early-bird participants opportunities to earn exclusive rewards, branded merchandise, and trading vouchers as they begin their journey within the ecosystem.

In an era of information overload, most retail traders face a significant gap: not in access to data, but in the lack of structure, judgment, and guidance. The company's research indicates that a vast majority of retail traders struggle due to inconsistent mentorship and the absence of practical learning environments. The PU Community is built specifically to address these pain points by offering a transparent ecosystem that prioritizes risk management and disciplined growth over market hype.

“The most common challenge I see for traders today isn’t a lack of information, it’s the absence of a clear, actionable path through the noise,” said Ahmed Yousre, Global Market Strategist at PU Prime. “With the launch of PU Community, we are moving beyond static education into a space of active, guided mentorship. I’m excited to be personally involved in this initiative, where I can engage directly with members and help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and disciplined market execution!”

Commenting on the launch, Daniel Bruce, Managing Director, said, “PU Community is where trading meets human connection. We are moving beyond the traditional brokerage model of simply acquiring customers to actively develop them." By combining human expertise with AI-driven efficiency, we aim to help users transition from reactive learners to confident, disciplined market participants, he added.

Some key highlights of the community:

- Dedicated Guided Courses: Through a series of 17 Progressive lessons, traders transition from passive spectators to active participants, equipped with their own judgment to navigate volatile markets.
- Direct Expert Access: Users gain seamless, real-time interaction with professionally certified analysts (CFA, CISI, and SCA level), allowing for direct feedback on trade ideas and market analysis.
- AI-Assisted Intelligence: The ecosystem utilizes AI to provide summaries of top news for high-interest assets, ensuring traders stay informed without being overwhelmed.
- Interactive Gamification: A dynamic leaderboard system allows users to progress from "New Trader" to "Market Legend," earning recognition and rewards based on their contributions to the community.

Looking ahead, the launch of the PU Community represents a fundamental shift in the brokerage landscape. By recognizing that market success is hindered not by a lack of information, but by an overwhelming volume of data without the structure to filter it, PU Prime is pivoting from a traditional acquisition led model to one focused on long-term client development.

About PU Prime

Founded in 2015, PU Prime is a leading global fintech company and trusted CFD broker. Today, it offers regulated financial products across forex, commodities, indices, shares, and bonds. Operating in over 190 countries with more than 40 million app downloads, PU Prime provides innovative trading platforms and an integrated copy trading feature, empowering traders worldwide to achieve financial success with confidence.

For media enquiries, please contact: media@puprime.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/95cd7189-b3cf-4993-a1a2-78075e2b78c3

SOURCE: Pacific Union Seychelles Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Bitget Launches Blockchain4Youth Learning Hub to Strengthen the Future Web3 Workforce

VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 28 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has announced the launch of the Blockchain4Youth Learning Hub: Semester 1, a new education initiative designed to help young learners explore blockchain not only as a field of study, but as a viable career path in the digital economy.

As part of Bitget’s broader Blockchain4Youth initiative, the Learning Hub expands the program’s mission of making blockchain education more accessible and actionable for young people worldwide. Through recent initiatives such as the LALIGA Youth Tournament in Thailand, its partnership with Google Developer Group on Campus, and the Web3 Young Learners’ Encyclopedia, Blockchain4Youth has engaged more than 15,000 participants since launch, reflecting its ongoing commitment to youth development and the rising interest among students in finding clearer pathways into the Web3 industry.

The Blockchain4Youth Learning Hub combines structured learning with professional recognition and career-oriented support. Learners who complete the program and pass the assessments will receive a Certificate of Completion signed by Ignacio Aguirre Franco, Chief Marketing Officer of Bitget, giving them a credential they can present across their professional profiles.

The certificate is intended to serve as more than proof of participation. It offers verified recognition of Web3 competency and unlocks access to a broader network of opportunities. Certificate holders can benefit from priority review for opportunities at Bitget and gain entry to the Blockchain4Youth Talent Alliance, a core pillar of the program designed to connect certified learners with the wider Web3 industry. Through the alliance, participants can access priority opportunities, industry exposure, and networking channels, creating a clearer pathway between demonstrated knowledge and real-world professional roles.

As part of this effort, Bitget has confirmed a partnership with Bondex, the Web3 professional network behind web3.career, the largest job board in the industry. Through the partnership, Bitget and Bondex aim to make career entry points into Web3 more transparent and accessible for the next generation of builders and professionals

“Most young people trying to break into Web3 hit the same wall, they take a course, then have no network, no verified credentials, and no clear path to a job.” said Ignacio Palomera, Co-Founder of Bondex. “Blockchain4Youth and Bondex fix that. Finish the program, build a verified profile, be discovered in the Bondex trusted talent pool and apply directly to companies hiring on web3.career. It's the bridge the industry's been missing.

“A lot of young people are interested in Web3, but interest alone does not always show them where to begin,” said Ignacio Aguirre Franco, CMO of Bitget. “The Learning Hub is about making that first step feel more real by giving learners knowledge, recognition, and a better sense of where this path can lead. When young talent can see opportunity more clearly, they are more likely to believe they belong in the future of this industry.”

Ultimately, Blockchain4Youth Learning Hub reflects a broader commitment to building long-term infrastructure for Web3 education and talent development. More than a standalone campaign, the Learning Hub demonstrates how Blockchain4Youth is evolving into a sustained platform that supports learners as they move from discovery to skill-building, and from participation to contribution. Through this initiative, Bitget continues to position itself not only as a platform for digital assets, but also as an ecosystem builder helping shape the workforce that will define the next phase of Web3.

The B4Y Talent Alliance welcomes recruiting companies that want to connect with emerging talent, expand industry access, and create more pathways into Web3. Interested organizations can contact blockchain4youth@bitget.com.

About Bitget

Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships with LALIGA and MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry's lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

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

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

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

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b28d747f-7398-4f75-918b-9c886aeae023

SOURCE: Bitget Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA

VESON, VERACITY BY DNV PARTNER ON VERIFIED EMISSIONS DATA INTEGRATION

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Maritime data and freight management solutions provider, Veson Nautical (Veson) has formed a strategic partnership with Veracity by DNV to integrate verified emissions data into operational and commercial shipping workflows.

The integration connects Veson’s IMOS with the Veracity platform, allowing emissions figures verified by DNV to flow directly into voyage financials and profit-and-loss tracking within IMOS.

According to Veson in a statement, this first-of-its-kind integration is designed to help shipping operators incorporate compliance and automated data quality checks into voyage decisions, regulatory reporting and settlement processes, while reducing manual data handling and audit risk.

Veson President and Chief Operating Officer, Sean Riley said the partnership reflects growing industry demand for verified data to support both compliance and commercial performance.

Meanwhile, Veracity by DNV Executive Director, Mikkel Skou said the collaboration demonstrates how verified data can improve decision-making, operational efficiency and data-sharing across the maritime sector.

The partnership is expected to expand into an end-to-end emissions reporting and verification workflow, enabling operational vessel data from IMOS to be transferred to Veracity for quality assurance and verification through DNV’s Emissions Connect.

The system is intended to support compliance with evolving frameworks such as the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and FuelEU Maritime, while also supporting broader commercial use cases.

The partnership builds on Veracity by DNV’s maritime data network, which connects to more than 65,000 vessels worldwide through automated access to verified data, and Veson’s expanding Platform Partner Network. Together, they aim to extend trusted emissions and operational data into core shipping systems, providing a more connected ecosystem for maritime commercial operations.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, April 27, 2026

HERE, BAIDU MAPS TO CO-DEVELOP GLOBAL INTELLIGENT DRIVING, NAVIGATION SOLUTIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- HERE Technologies, the mapping and location data company, and Baidu Maps have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop advanced mapping, navigation and intelligent driving solutions for global automakers.

Under the agreement, the two companies plan to combine HERE’s artificial intelligence (AI)-powered live map and location services for Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and automated driving features with Baidu Maps’ navigation capabilities and research and development expertise.

According to HERE in a statement, the collaboration aims to deliver a unified global solution for next-generation intelligent vehicles, covering key in-vehicle experiences and assisted-driving functions across multiple markets.

In advanced lane-level navigation, the companies will integrate HERE’s global map content, Dynamic Map Content and Connected Vehicle Service APIs with Baidu Maps’ global navigation engine and lane-level capabilities.

The solution is intended to support Chinese automakers in serving both domestic and international markets through a single, scalable navigation framework with enhanced precision and positioning.

The partnership also includes development of HERE Predictive Signal Timing, combining HERE’s global probe data and cloud-based application programming interfaces (APIs) with Baidu Maps’ traffic intelligence algorithms and deployment experience. The feature is designed to improve driving smoothness and safety by enabling more stable stopping behaviour at traffic signals and reducing abrupt manoeuvres.

For ADAS and ISA, HERE and Baidu Maps will integrate lane-level data, speed-limit advisory systems and predictive road attributes to support machine-readable inputs for advanced driving functions. The combined offering is designed to enable compliance with global regulatory requirements while accelerating deployment of assisted-driving capabilities, including navigation-on-autopilot-level functions.

The companies also plan to explore AI-driven collaboration to enhance in-vehicle intelligence, including generative AI applications for contextual navigation, predictive alerts and voice-assisted driving features tailored to real-world conditions.

The solutions will be introduced to automakers in phases, starting with pilot programmes before scaling into broader digital cockpit platforms.

-- BERNAMA

MASAN GROUP UNVEILS VIETNAM CONSUMER OPERATING SYSTEM AT 2026 AGM

The Annual General Meeting of Masan Group - Masan Consumer - Masan MEATLife, held on April 24, attracted thousands of shareholders and partners.


KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- Masan Group Corporation, together with its listed subsidiaries Masan Consumer and Masan MEATLife, held their 2026 Annual General Meeting in Ho Chi Minh City under the theme “The Great Connectivity – Đại Kết Nối”.

The theme reflects Masan’s multi-year transformation toward building Vietnam’s consumer operating system (cOS), an integrated platform designed to connect retail, brand, and digital ecosystems.

In a statement, the company said the initiative aims to address long-standing fragmentation in the consumer market and improve efficiency across the end-to-end retail value chain.

At the core of the strategy is WinCommerce (WCM), Masan’s retail platform, which has completed its turnaround and is targeting profitability in 2026. The company plans to expand its network to around 6,100 stores by end-2026, with a strong focus on rural areas, where modern trade penetration remains relatively low.

Masan also outlined a long-term target of reaching approximately 13,000 stores by 2030, supported by improving unit economics, faster store payback periods, and continued scale benefits from its retail footprint.

Beyond its owned retail network, Masan is expanding its reach through Retail Supreme, a platform designed to digitally integrate Vietnam’s traditional general trade ecosystem. The initiative enables direct territory-based engagement with retailers, improving distribution efficiency and strengthening brand presence in fragmented markets.

The company said Retail Supreme has significantly expanded its active retail coverage and improved ordering frequency and stock-keeping unit (SKU) penetration, with further scaling expected as it deepens engagement with general trade partners nationwide.

Masan also highlighted its Brand Engine strategy, which focuses on scaling branded consumer products across food and daily essentials. The company aims to expand its portfolio of mega brands and increase penetration of branded products in key categories, including protein, across Vietnam.

Supporting these initiatives is Masan’s Digital Engine, anchored by its WinX platform, which connects consumers, retailers, and brands through data-driven intelligence. The system enables real-time decision-making across store expansion, product assortment, pricing, and marketing execution, supported by its logistics platform Supra to enhance supply chain efficiency.

Masan Group chief executive officer, Danny Le said that “The Great Connectivity” reflects the company’s commitment to Vietnam, adding that integrating its brands, retail network and digital intelligence delivers benefits for consumers, employees and shareholders.

-- BERNAMA

Sunday, April 26, 2026

AM BEST AFFIRMS EXCELLENT CREDIT RATINGS OF NEW ZEALAND'S TOWER

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) of New Zealand’s Tower Limited (Tower), with a stable outlook.

In a statement, AM Best said the credit ratings (ratings) reflect Tower’s balance sheet strength, which was assessed as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

Tower’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which was at the strongest level at fiscal year-end 2025 (Sept 30, 2025).

AM Best expects capitalisation to remain at least very strong over the medium term, supported by earnings retention, solid financial flexibility, a prudent reinsurance programme, and a conservative investment strategy.

The insurer’s operating performance is assessed as adequate, reflecting a history of earnings volatility linked to catastrophe events. In FY2025, Tower reported a return-on-equity ratio of 23.5 per cent and a net/net combined ratio of 81.4 per cent, driven by technical performance and investment income.

The credit rating agency expects continued positive operating results supported by disciplined underwriting, pricing adequacy, and investment returns.

Tower holds a solid position in its core New Zealand insurance segments, despite a modest overall non-life market share of around five per cent. Its product portfolio is concentrated in domestic property and motor insurance.

AM Best assesses Tower’s ERM as appropriate, noting an increased focus on regulatory compliance amid recent regulatory developments in New Zealand. Following a self-reported issue, the Financial Markets Authority conducted an investigation that identified historical misleading representations resulting in a penalty payment.

The company is undertaking customer remediation and strengthening internal controls as part of its ongoing governance improvements.

-- BERNAMA

Friday, April 24, 2026

BIDGELY EMPOWER AI 2026 TO SPOTLIGHT SCALABLE UTILITY AI


This year's EmPOWER AI conference will demonstrate how utilities move from AI experimentation to enterprise-wide scalability with Bidgely's UtilityAI.



KUALA LUMPUR, April 24 (Bernama) -- Bidgely's premier energy intelligence conference, EmPOWER AI, will be held May 12 to 14 in New York City to unite utility leaders, energy researchers and technology experts around artificial intelligence (AI) in the energy sector.

Hosted by OG&E, the conference will focus on how utilities are moving beyond AI experimentation toward enterprise-wide deployment, with participation from major industry players, including Alabama Power, Eversource, NV Energy, PSEG Long Island, and Xcel Energy.

In a statement, Bidgely chief executive officer, Abhay Gupta said the company’s technologies have been developed in collaboration with utilities, with active deployments demonstrating that enterprise-wide AI can be both secure and scalable as grid pressures intensify.

Each year, Bidgely unveils the latest advancements in its AI and machine learning platform technology. The event will showcase new agentic AI capabilities designed to turn smart meter signals into personalised customer interactions at scale.

Conference sessions will examine practical deployment strategies, operational trade-offs and the requirements for scaling AI within regulated utility environments, covering topics such as affordability, grid intelligence, electrification planning and enterprise AI integration.

Speakers from utilities and research organisations, including International Data Corporation, will share insights on breaking down data silos, advancing data-driven innovation and building more resilient energy infrastructure.

According to Bidgely, the event reflects growing momentum behind purpose-built AI solutions as utilities address rising costs, regulatory complexity and energy transition demands.

-- BERNAMA

JBL Celebrates 80 Years of Powering Voices

 

Table

JBL Brand Ambassador Benson Boone reflects the brand’s continued commitment to the artists shaping today’s music and culture while honoring 80 years of audio innovation. 


LOS ANGELES, April 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- JBL, the iconic audio brand from HARMAN, is celebrating its 80th anniversary, marking eight decades of delivering sound that moves generations.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260423455760/en/ 

A legacy of leadership

Since its founding by visionary engineer James B. Lansing in 1946, JBL has set the standard for audio innovation. From professional recording studios and home entertainment to powering legendary cultural moments like Woodstock and Tomorrowland, JBL has always been committed to delivering authentic, unfiltered sound.

Today, JBL’s influence is unparalleled. It stands as a global leader in personal audio, with hundreds of millions listening to the music they love through JBL portable speakers and headphones. And JBL Professional continues to power over 40% of the world’s cinemas, while serving stadiums, recording studios, music venues and more, ensuring high-quality sound is accessible to listeners everywhere...even in your car.

“For 80 years, JBL’s engineering legacy has been the benchmark for high-fidelity audio, and that standard lives in every JBL product made today. As we celebrate this milestone, JBL remains committed to carrying this standard forward in the technologies that will power the next generation of sound and culture,” said Dave Rogers, President, HARMAN Lifestyle Division.

Eight decades of innovation
For more than eight decades, JBL engineers have pioneered technologies that have transformed how sound is created and experienced, from groundbreaking loudspeaker designs to award-winning smart audio solutions for professional, luxury, portable, and car audio. This relentless pursuit of excellence has earned JBL some of the industry’s highest honours, including Academy Awards for achievements in sound engineering, and a Grammy Award for its “continual mastery and innovation in concert, studio, cinema and broadcast sound and monitors to ensure exacting standards for the most accurate sonic experience.”

Looking ahead, JBL is shaping the future of sound with investments in breakthrough technologies such as spatial audio, adaptive soundscapes, and immersive listening experiences that seamlessly integrate audio into everyday life. Sustainability is also a critical frontier for JBL, guiding product design and production toward a more responsible future for audio innovation.

Amplifying the future
JBL’s commitment to innovation extends beyond breakthrough products. Through community-driven initiatives like the JBL Music Academy, the JBL Campus Program, and partnerships with organizations such as Girls Make Beats, JBL is bringing together emerging artists and the broader industry to break down barriers and amplify the diverse voices that will define the future of audio.

“Authenticity in music is everything. JBL has always been, and will always be, about ensuring artists’ voices are heard, and audiences experience their vision unfiltered, whether on the move, at home, or at a live event. JBL brings the world together through the power of sound.” – Martin Garrix, JBL Global Ambassador.

Anniversary highlights
JBL will mark its 80th anniversary with a series of global initiatives, including the JBL Playback Gallery— showcasing eight decades of iconic JBL products with expert commentary and technical demonstrations. The tour will visit landmark cities throughout 2026, including Amsterdam, Los Angeles, Munich, New York, Tokyo, and Vienna.

Other projects include a special digital magazine available for a limited time here, and a full-season takeover of HARMAN’s Audio Talks podcast series. This podcast includes conversations with engineers, designers, and musicians who have influenced JBL’s sound. The celebrations also come to life through a commemorative anniversary video.

With 80 years of audio excellence behind it and a bold vision for the future, JBL stays committed to powering voices that move, connect, and inspire people across the globe.

Learn more about JBL’s 80th anniversary here: https://www.jbl.com/our-story.html

About JBL
For 80 years, JBL has shaped life’s most memorable moments at the intersection of music, lifestyle, gaming and sports. JBL elevates listening experiences with superior audio quality and product designs that encourage individuality and self-expression. With unmatched professional credentials and industry-leading innovation, JBL is a trailblazer in the audio industry because of passionate and talented engineers and designers around the globe. JBL Pro Sound is the foremost technology pushing culture forward through major pop culture events and partnerships with the world’s top talent across music, sports and esports.

About HARMAN
HARMAN is a global leader in Lifestyle Audio and Automotive technology. We create intelligent experiences that enrich people’s lives on the road, in their homes, on the stage, and everywhere in between. Our iconic audio brands — including JBL®, Harman Kardon®, AKG®, Bowers & Wilkins®, Denon®, and Marantz® — bring premium sound to consumers and audio/visual professionals worldwide. More than 50 million vehicles globally rely on HARMAN’s technologies to deliver safer, smarter, and more intuitive in-cabin experiences. HARMAN is a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and has approximately 26,000 employees around the world.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260423455760/en/

Contact

HARMAN Lifestyle Communications
Lifestyle.communications@harman.com 

Source : HARMAN

Thursday, April 23, 2026

MELTWATER, YOUGOV REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SHIFTING CONSUMER TRUST IN AI-GENERATED CONTENT

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- Meltwater and YouGov have released Trust in the Age of Generative AI, a new report exploring how the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video, audio, images and text is shaping consumer trust in brands and content.

Drawing insights from nearly 10,000 consumers across seven global markets, the study examines attitudes toward generative AI (GenAI) and the media environments that influence these perceptions. The findings offer key insights for brands navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.

Meltwater Chief Product Officer, Chris Hackney in a statement said GenAI provides brands with a powerful new way to connect with audiences, but success depends on how transparently and thoughtfully it is used, and brands that lead with clarity and accountability have a real opportunity to build deeper trust.

As GenAI becomes more integrated into marketing and communications, the report reveals a pivotal moment for brands, not only in how they adopt AI, but also in how they redefine trust-building with audiences.

The findings also point to a meaningful opportunity, in which consumers want brands to be transparent, intentional, and audience-first in their use of AI, and those that are could differentiate themselves and build stronger, more trusted relationships with their audiences.

The report finds that transparency is a critical factor, with 86 per cent of consumers saying AI-generated content should be disclosed, presenting a clear opportunity for brands to build trust.

At the same time, perceptions remain mixed, as 32 per cent of respondents say they would trust brands less if content is AI-generated, compared with 15 per cent who would trust them more, underscoring the importance of how AI is applied and communicated.

Consumer sentiment toward AI also reflects a degree of caution, with 39 per cent expressing excitement while a larger 51 per cent remain unconvinced. Awareness is increasing, as 58 per cent of consumers believe they can identify AI-generated content, while online discussions have grown by 53 per cent, with media contributing 34 per cent of overall coverage.

Concerns over misinformation remain high, with 73 per cent of respondents highlighting it as a key issue, creating an opening for brands to position themselves as reliable and trustworthy sources. Acceptance of AI varies by context, with higher levels seen in entertainment and advertising, but significantly lower trust in news and influencer content.

“These insights show that trust is not being lost; it is being redefined,” added Hackney.

-- BERNAMA

Accertify Launches Global Air Travel Fraud Report Revealing Where Booking-Stage Pressure Is Most Concentrated


Q1 2026 analysis shows significant variation in prevented fraud rates by origin city, with higher concentrations across parts of Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and South & Southeast Asia


ITASCA, Ill., April 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Accertify, a leading unified risk decisioning platform provider, today announced the release of its Global Air Travel Fraud Report: Q1 2026, a quarterly analysis examining how fraud risk in airline bookings varies by route origin across global markets.

Based on more than 180 million airline booking transactions processed between January and March 2026, the report analyzes fraud rates by departure city as a proxy for route origin, offering airlines a practical view of where fraud prevention systems are intervening most frequently at the point of booking.

The Q1 2026 findings show that fraud risk in airline bookings is unevenly distributed across markets, with meaningful differences emerging by region and by origin city. Routes originating in North America and Australia continue to exhibit consistently low fraud rates, generally remaining below one percent even among high‑volume departure cities. By contrast, several regions - including Latin America, parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South and Southeast Asia - show materially higher concentrations of prevented fraud, with certain origin cities recording fraud rates multiple times higher.

Importantly, the fraud rates presented in the report represent prevented fraud, or transactions that were denied for a fraud reason before travel occurred. As a result, the rankings highlight where fraud prevention systems are most actively intervening, rather than where fraud losses ultimately materialized.

Key findings from the Accertify Q1 2026 Global Air Travel Fraud Report include:
  • Routes originating in North America and Australia remain among the lowest‑risk globally, reflecting stable booking behavior and more mature fraud prevention environments.
  • Latin America and the Caribbean show some of the highest concentrations of prevented fraud, particularly across several Brazilian and Colombian origin cities.
  • Fraud exposure across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa varies significantly by origin city, underscoring that regional averages can mask localized risk concentration.
  • Fraud trends across Asia are mixed, with East Asia maintaining relatively low and improving fraud rates, while parts of South and Southeast Asia exhibit higher and more uneven fraud pressure.
“Understanding where fraud is being actively prevented gives airlines a clearer picture of today’s booking‑stage risk landscape,” said Theodore Esser, Director, Strategic Risk Services at Accertify. “By looking at fraud rates by route origin, airlines can better see where controls are intervening most often, and how fraud prevention maturity differs across markets.”

The report underscores that lower fraud rates are not accidental, but tend to emerge in markets where airlines have invested in layered, consistently applied fraud controls over time. Conversely, higher observed fraud rates reflect environments where booking‑stage fraud pressure remains more concentrated and requires more frequent system intervention.

The Q1 2026 Global Air Travel Fraud Report is accessible here.

About Accertify

Accertify, Inc., is a leading unified risk decisioning platform provider, spanning fraud prevention, chargeback management, account protection, abuse prevention, and payment optimization solutions to clients spanning diverse industries worldwide. Accertify’s platform protects digital commerce, helping clients grow their business by driving down fraud-related losses, simplifying business processes, all while upholding the consumer experience. To learn more about Accertify, visit www.accertify.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260422627118/en/

Contact

Media Contact
Tylor Tourville
T2 PR
tylor@t2pr.agency

Source : Accertify, Inc.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

MELTWATER, YOUGOV REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SHIFTING CONSUMER TRUST IN AI-GENERATED CONTENT

EZE Cloud Goes Live on Workday.


KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- Meltwater and YouGov have released Trust in the Age of Generative AI, a new report exploring how the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video, audio, images and text is shaping consumer trust in brands and content.

Drawing insights from nearly 10,000 consumers across seven global markets, the study examines attitudes toward generative AI (GenAI) and the media environments that influence these perceptions. The findings offer key insights for brands navigating this rapidly evolving landscape.

Meltwater Chief Product Officer, Chris Hackney in a statement said GenAI provides brands with a powerful new way to connect with audiences, but success depends on how transparently and thoughtfully it is used, and brands that lead with clarity and accountability have a real opportunity to build deeper trust.

As GenAI becomes more integrated into marketing and communications, the report reveals a pivotal moment for brands, not only in how they adopt AI, but also in how they redefine trust-building with audiences.

The findings also point to a meaningful opportunity, in which consumers want brands to be transparent, intentional, and audience-first in their use of AI, and those that are could differentiate themselves and build stronger, more trusted relationships with their audiences.

The report finds that transparency is a critical factor, with 86 per cent of consumers saying AI-generated content should be disclosed, presenting a clear opportunity for brands to build trust.

At the same time, perceptions remain mixed, as 32 per cent of respondents say they would trust brands less if content is AI-generated, compared with 15 per cent who would trust them more, underscoring the importance of how AI is applied and communicated.

Consumer sentiment toward AI also reflects a degree of caution, with 39 per cent expressing excitement while a larger 51 per cent remain unconvinced. Awareness is increasing, as 58 per cent of consumers believe they can identify AI-generated content, while online discussions have grown by 53 per cent, with media contributing 34 per cent of overall coverage.

Concerns over misinformation remain high, with 73 per cent of respondents highlighting it as a key issue, creating an opening for brands to position themselves as reliable and trustworthy sources. Acceptance of AI varies by context, with higher levels seen in entertainment and advertising, but significantly lower trust in news and influencer content.

“These insights show that trust is not being lost; it is being redefined,” added Hackney.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, April 20, 2026

MONGOLIAN MINING CORPORATION POSTS HIGHER COAL OUTPUT FOR QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31



KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 (Bernama) -- Mongolian Mining Corporation reported a mixed but generally stronger operational performance for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, according to data released by the company.

The group (Mongolian Mining Corporation and its subsidiaries) recorded 4,846 kilotonnes (kt) of run-of-mine (ROM) coal mined, representing a 22 per cent increase quarter-on-quarter and 32 per cent year-on-year.

In a statement, the group said washed coking coal production stood at 2,276.9 kt, down three per cent quarter-on-quarter but up eight per cent compared to the same period last year.

Coal sales rose significantly on an annual basis, with 2,558.4 kt sold, marking a 60 per cent year-on-year increase, although marginally lower quarter-on-quarter.

In its gold and metals segment, the group reported gold sales of 8,527 ounces (oz), up 20 per cent from the previous quarter, supported by stronger pricing conditions. The average gold price increased 17 per cent to US$4,872 per oz, reflecting firmer market conditions during the period.

The group remains the largest producer and exporter of washed coking coal in Mongolia, with operations spanning multiple subsidiaries engaged in coal, gold, and other metals production.

-- BERNAMA

Thursday, April 16, 2026

AM BEST AFFIRMS NEW ZEALAND’S PINNACLE LIFE CREDIT RATINGS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of B+ (Good) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “bbb-” (Good) of New Zealand’s Pinnacle Life Limited (Pinnacle Life), with a stable outlook.

The credit ratings (ratings) reflect Pinnacle Life’s adequate balance sheet strength, operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM), alongside a neutral impact from its parent, Greenstone Holdco Pty Limited (Greenstone).

In a statement, AM Best said Pinnacle Life’s balance sheet strength is supported by strong risk-adjusted capitalisation at fiscal year-end 2025, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, along with sound regulatory solvency and financial flexibility.

However, reliance on third-party reinsurance and a relatively small capital base increase sensitivity to business growth, interest rate changes and external shocks.

Operating performance is assessed as adequate, driven by stable underwriting results and healthy investment returns, although earnings have shown moderate volatility due to interest rate movements and elevated expenses. The company is expected to maintain adequate performance as it continues its expansion strategy.

AM Best also noted Pinnacle Life’s limited business profile, reflecting its small scale and concentration in the New Zealand market, with a focus on mortality products such as term life and funeral insurance. Growth is largely supported by Greenstone as a key distribution partner, alongside direct online channels.

Pinnacle Life’s ERM is considered appropriate for the company’s size and complexity, with further development expected as the company expands its operations.

-- BERNAMA

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

HIGH AI ADOPTION, BUT DATA READINESS GAP PERSISTS - CLOUDERA SURVEY

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- Most organisations still lack the data foundation needed for success despite growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), according to Cloudera’s latest global survey examining enterprise readiness to support AI at scale.

The findings highlight that while 96 per cent of organisations report integrating AI into core business processes and 85 per cent say they have a clear data strategy, nearly four out of five (around 80 per cent) admit their AI and data initiatives are still constrained by limited data access across environments.

This gap highlights an emerging “AI readiness illusion” — the belief that organisations are prepared to scale AI even as critical data challenges remain unresolved, according to Cloudera in a statement.

With AI now embedded across the enterprise, achieving consistent returns on investment remains difficult. Respondents cited data quality (22 per cent), cost overruns (16 per cent), and poor integration into existing workflows (15 per cent) as key challenges, highlighting the complexity of translating AI investments into measurable business outcomes.

Infrastructure limitations further compound the issue, with nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) of respondents reporting that performance constraints have hindered operational initiatives, reflecting the difficulty of scaling AI across fragmented environments.

According to the survey, 84 per cent of respondents expressed confidence in the accuracy, completeness, and alignment of their organisation’s data. However, this optimism often masks deeper issues, including persistent silos, inconsistent data quality, and limited accessibility.

The landscape of data readiness also varies across industries. For instance, 54 per cent of telecommunications respondents reported full visibility into where their data resides, compared to 30 per cent in financial services and 31 per cent in the public sector.

As enterprise AI shifts from experimentation to execution, data readiness is emerging as the defining factor separating leaders from laggards. Organisations that can fully access and govern their data are far better positioned to deliver trusted, scalable AI.

Unlocking AI’s full value will require more than ambition — it demands genuine data readiness. Enterprises that can close this gap will be best positioned to drive lasting impact and lead the next era of intelligent business, according to the survey.

The survey, commissioned by Cloudera and conducted by Researchscape, gathered responses from 1,270 information technology leaders across the Americas (North America and South America), Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions at companies with more than 1,000 employees between Jan 22 and March 3.

-- BERNAMA

ARLA FOODS INGREDIENTS TO SHOWCASE NUTRITION SOLUTIONS AT VITAFOODS EUROPE 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- Arla Foods Ingredients has announced it will showcase high-protein, nutrient-dense application concepts for users of GLP-1 anti-obesity medications at Vitafoods Europe, taking place in Barcelona from May 5 to 7.

Originally developed to treat diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists have reshaped the weight management market, the company said in a statement.

In 2025, 11 per cent of consumers globally and 18 per cent in the United States (US) who were actively trying to lose weight reported using them, with uptake expected to rise as availability expands, tablet formats emerge and prices fall.

However, GLP-1 use is associated with side effects. Lean muscle loss may account for up to 40 per cent of total weight lost, compared with around 25 per cent for traditional interventions, while up to 76 per cent of users report gastric discomfort and reduced appetite.

To help address these challenges, Arla Foods Ingredients has developed high-protein concepts using Nutrilac and Lacprodan BLG-100, delivering essential amino acids for muscle health in nutrient-dense formats, alongside probiotics and cultures from Novonesis to support digestive well-being.

Arla Foods Ingredients Chief Commercial Officer, Anne Widart said nutrition for GLP-1 users is a growing category, creating opportunities for dairy manufacturers.

“There is increasing demand for nutrient-dense, high-protein products in formats suited to smaller appetites. Our concepts are designed to help manufacturers respond to these evolving needs,” she added.

The company said the range includes formats tailored for reduced appetites, such as a fermented high-protein shot offering 10 grammes (g) of protein per 70 millilitres (ml) serving, which is low fat, lactose-reduced and contains no added sugar.

Other concepts include a fermented high-protein drinking yoghurt providing 20g of protein per 200ml serving, and a high-protein water-based shot for ambient storage delivering 21g of protein per 100ml serving.

Arla Foods Ingredients will also showcase two additional concepts at Vitafoods Europe, namely an aerated protein bar solution and ready-to-stir medical nutrition powder solutions.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

AI-MEDIA TO LAUNCH NEXT-GENERATION LEXI ENCODERS AT NAB SHOW 2026



KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- AI-Media, a leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered language technology and live captioning solutions, has announced the launch of two new next-generation encoders, the LEXI Text Encoder and LEXI Voice Encoder, at NAB Show 2026.

The release marks AI-Media’s first new encoder hardware in over a decade, building on the success of its industry gold-standard Encoder Pro (HD592), which is used by broadcasters and enterprises worldwide.

“For the first time in over a decade, we are introducing entirely new encoder hardware—built not just to support today’s workflows but to power the next generation of AI-driven live production. 

“We are focused on delivering the infrastructure that enables content to be understood in any language, anywhere in the world,” said AI-Media Chief Product Officer, Bill McLaughlin in a statement.

The new solutions deliver performance upgrades, advanced AI-driven capabilities, and a flexible subscription-based model designed to transform live broadcast workflows.

Built for the evolving demands of live production, both encoders combine high-performance hardware with intelligent automation to deliver greater efficiency, scalability, and quality across broadcast environments.

Key next-generation encoder features include upgraded processing power to support increasingly complex AI-driven workflows; LEXI Live Sync, which ensures captions and translations remain perfectly synchronised with video feeds; and 4K broadcast readiness for high-performance live production.

AI-Media is also introducing a Hardware-as-a-Subscription (HaaS) model across its encoder range, including the new releases, eliminating upfront capital expenditure and providing customers with a scalable, cost-effective way to access the latest technology.

At NAB 2026, AI-Media will offer a limited-time promotion, with customers able to secure three months free, enabling immediate access to next-generation technology while reducing upfront costs, alongside a showcase of its full LEXI Suite.

-- BERNAMA

VEYDOOMAX PREVIEWS X6 RIDE SERIES MODEL AHEAD OF JULY LAUNCH

KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Bernama) -- VeydooMax, an outdoor lifestyle brand under Shenzhen Weidu Electronics Co Ltd, has previewed the upcoming X6 from its VeydooMax Ride series, following its appearance at the Bangkok International Motor Show, with a launch planned for July.

The X6 will carry forward the brand’s “Smarter Ride, Tougher Build” philosophy while delivering refinements in areas riders prioritise, the company said in a statement.

Within VeydooMax’s broader outdoor positioning, the Ride series focuses on products designed for real riding use, including commuting, weekend rides, group travel, and longer journeys across varying road and weather conditions.

The new model is being developed with enhanced outdoor visibility, improved smart connectivity, practical ride-recording capabilities, and rider-assistance functions tailored for real-world use.

For daily commuters, the X6 is designed to offer a cleaner and more stable cockpit experience. For leisure and group riders, it aims to support better navigation, communication, ride capture, and overall riding confidence.

Compared with the previous generation, the X6 focuses on delivering a more integrated user experience by combining display, connectivity, imaging, alerts, and remote capabilities into a unified interface.

According to VeydooMax, the model is also designed to reduce rider distraction, improve access to key information, and provide added support in scenarios such as parking, remote monitoring, and unexpected situations.

Additional details about the X6 will be released closer to launch.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, April 13, 2026

Dive Into the Beat of Songkran: Where Music, Water, and Global Culture Collide

EBC Financial Group celebrates the spirit of Thailand’s most iconic festival as an official sponsor of the S2O Songkran Music Festival 2026

BANGKOK, April 14 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- There is a moment each April when Bangkok comes alive in a way that nowhere else on earth can match. Streets flood with colour and water. Music thunders through open-air stages. Strangers become friends in seconds. That moment is Songkran and this year, EBC Financial Group (“EBC”) is proud to celebrate it as an official sponsor of the S2O Songkran Music Festival 2026.

The sponsorship reflects EBC’s long-standing commitment to supporting vibrant cultural traditions in the communities where it operates. One of Asia’s most celebrated water-and-music festivals, S2O has grown into a global symbol of Thai cultural identity – a fusion of centuries-old tradition and world-class contemporary entertainment that draws thousands of international and local attendees each year.

A Broker That Shows Up Where Its Community Lives

As the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, EBC stands alongside one of the world’s most iconic sporting institutions. It connects with millions of football fans across Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa through a shared belief in teamwork, ambition, and excellence. Through its ongoing collaboration with the University of Oxford’s Department of Economics, this World’s Best Brokerage, according to World Finance in 2023-2025, helps bring world-class economic thinking to a global audience, making financial and economic literacy more accessible and inclusive. And as a partner of the United Nations Foundation’s United to Beat Malaria campaign, now in its second year, EBC invests in the health and equity of the communities it serves – because a broker’s responsibility does not end at the trading screen.

Supporting S2O is the natural next chapter in that story. Where FC Barcelona channels the thrill of competition, Oxford sharpens the mind, and the UN Foundation protects the most vulnerable, S2O celebrates culture, joy, and the spirit of coming together. For a broker that has always believed in showing up meaningfully in the communities it serves, Songkran is the perfect stage.

Celebrating Thai Culture on a Global Stage

Songkran is more than a holiday. It is a living expression of Thai generosity, renewal, and togetherness: values that resonate far beyond Thailand’s borders. The S2O Songkran Music Festival has become a powerful ambassador for that spirit, introducing the world to a celebration that is joyful, inclusive, and unmistakably Thai.

For EBC, the opportunity to be part of that story is significant. Thailand’s cultural richness and creative energy have long made it one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic societies. By supporting a festival that amplifies Thai traditions for a global audience, EBC honours the culture of a country that holds an important place in its regional presence – and reinforces its belief that the communities it operates in deserve to be celebrated, not just served.

Beyond the Screen, Into the Moment

At its core, this sponsorship reflects what kind of broker EBC chooses to be – one that deeply connects with the people in every region it serves, shares their passions, supports what they love, and encourages them to live fully. Songkran, with its energy, its warmth, and its tradition of bringing people together, is the perfect expression of that ambition.

As the countdown to Songkran begins, EBC looks forward to standing alongside the thousands of festival-goers who will gather at S2O Land Bangkok this April, not as a brand on a billboard, but as part of the celebration itself. Some of the best partnerships, after all, are built not in boardrooms but in the moments people remember.

For more analysis from EBC, visit: www.ebc.com.

Disclaimer: This material is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or advice from EBC Financial Group and all its entities ("EBC"). Trading Forex and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on margin carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Before trading, you should carefully consider your trading objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and consult an independent financial advisor if necessary. Statistics or past investment performance are not a guarantee of future performance. EBC is not liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.

About EBC Financial Group

Founded in London, EBC Financial Group (“EBC”) is a global brand known for its expertise in financial brokerage and asset management. Through its regulated entities operating across major financial jurisdictions—including the UK, Australia, the Cayman Islands, Mauritius, South Africa and others—EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, CFDs and more.

Trusted by investors in over 100 countries and honoured with global awards including multiple year recognition from World Finance, EBC is widely regarded as one of the world’s best brokers with titles including Best Trading Platform and Most Trusted Broker. With its strong regulatory standing and commitment to transparency, EBC has also been consistently ranked among the top brokers—trusted for its ability to deliver secure, innovative, and client-first trading solutions across competitive international markets.

EBC’s subsidiaries are licensed and regulated within their respective jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA); EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia's Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC); EBC Financial (MU) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission Mauritius (FSC); EBC Financial Group SA (Pty) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).

At the core of EBC are a team of industry veterans with over 40 years of experience in major financial institutions. Having navigated key economic cycles from the Plaza Accord and 2015 Swiss franc crisis to the market upheavals of the COVID-19 pandemic. We foster a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor relationship is handled with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

EBC is a proud official foreign exchange partner of FC Barcelona and continues to drive impactful partnerships to empower communities – namely through the UN Foundation’s United to Beat Malaria initiative, Department of Economics at the University of Oxford, and a diverse range of partners to champion initiatives in global health, economics, education, and sustainability.

https://www.ebc.com/

Media Contact:

Ginny Dang
Public Relations Executive
Ginny.dang@ebc.com

Aldric Tinker
Global Public Relations Lead
aldric.tinker@ebc.com

SOURCE: EBC Tech Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA

Friday, April 10, 2026

ICHAM LAUNCHES OPEN-ENDED VCC FUND FOCUSES ON AUTOCALL STRUCTURED PRODUCTS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 (Bernama) -- ICHAM Pte Ltd (ICHAM), a regional multi-family office and asset manager, has launched a new open-ended Singapore Variable Capital Company (VCC) fund focused on autocall structured products, available exclusively to accredited and institutional investors.

In a statement, ICHAM said the fund offers access to a professionally managed portfolio of structured products in a fund format, providing a simplified, institutional approach while complementing diversified equity portfolios with equity-like return characteristics and a focus on lower volatility.

ICHAM Chief Executive Officer, Archan Chamapun said the fund provides accredited and institutional investors with access to a professionally managed portfolio of autocall structured products, which have traditionally been distributed by private banks as individual investments that may involve concentrated exposures and less transparent fee structures.

Meanwhile, lead Portfolio Manager of the fund, Felix Chew said the strategy is designed to complement diversified portfolios by providing access to structured product investments through a professionally managed approach.

The fund adopts an institutional approach with a focus on risk management, ongoing oversight, and a transparent, investor-aligned fee structure, aiming to complement broader investment portfolios through a diversified pool of such investments.

ICHAM is recognised for its expertise in alternative asset classes and structured products, having served accredited and institutional investors with tailored investment solutions since 2019, supported by a team with extensive experience in Asian financial markets.

The firm is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and focuses on delivering institutional-grade investment solutions with transparent fee structures and disciplined risk management.

-- BERNAMA

Thursday, April 9, 2026

IFLYTEK SHOWCASES AI TRANSLATION DEVICES AT GITEX ASIA 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 (Bernama) -- iFLYTEK showcased its latest artificial intelligence (AI) translation devices, including AI Glasses and the AI Interpret Mic, at GITEX ASIA 2026, highlighting its expanding portfolio of AI-powered communication solutions.

In a statement, the company said it demonstrated how its large-model AI technology enables accurate, secure and scalable multilingual interactions across business and everyday scenarios.

“Clear communication is the cornerstone of global collaboration. With our AI translation technologies, we are helping people and businesses connect with greater clarity and confidence worldwide,” said iFLYTEK Vice President, Vincent Zhan.

The new AI Glasses support real-time face-to-face translation with a first-of-its-kind multimodal noise reduction with lip-reading recognition, while the AI Interpret Mic is designed for professional conferences, offering simultaneous interpretation integrated with event systems.

Beyond these devices, iFLYTEK presented a broader ecosystem of AI translation tools spanning office productivity, travel and large-scale events. These include AI-powered transcription solutions, translation earbuds, smart translators and enterprise-level interpretation systems, all aimed at enabling seamless cross-language communication.

The portfolio reflects iFLYTEK’s strategy to build a full-scenario AI translation framework, leveraging its long-standing expertise in speech and language technologies to support global collaboration.

The solutions are being showcased at GITEX ASIA 2026, where iFLYTEK is also presenting its broader AI infrastructure and enterprise applications.

-- BERNAMA

Horizon Quantum and IonQ Enter into Strategic Agreement to Unlock Quantum Potential


Table

This photo depicts a current trapped ion system from IonQ. The system to be delivered to Horizon will be IonQ’s next-generation 256-qubit technology


Horizon Quantum To Acquire IonQ 256-Qubit Trapped-Ion System

SINGAPORE & COLLEGE PARK, Md., April 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Horizon Quantum Holdings Ltd. (“Horizon Quantum”), a pioneer of software infrastructure for quantum applications and IonQ — the world’s leading quantum platform company — today announced a strategic agreement. Horizon Quantum will purchase one of IonQ’s first 6th-generation, chip-based 256-qubit trapped-ion systems, in furtherance of Horizon Quantum’s mission to unlock the full potential of quantum computing with its software platform. The acquisition of the 256-qubit system marks a further step in Horizon Quantum’s efforts to enable broad quantum advantage.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260409584530/en/ 

IonQ’s 256-qubit system is designed to provide researchers and developers significantly more computing capacity to explore complex problems, with its microwave gate operations and 99.99% gate fidelity, while producing more accurate and reliable solutions using Horizon Quantum’s real-world software infrastructure. The forthcoming IonQ system will be designed so all of its qubits can work together efficiently from its “all-to-all connectivity” and parallel operations enabling a broader range of calculations with greater flexibility.

With this technology, Horizon Quantum plans to expand the capabilities of its quantum hardware testbed beyond the initial superconducting system with a second, technologically distinct hardware modality. Horizon Quantum will be among only a few efforts globally to operate commercial systems of multiple modalities, which will allow Horizon Quantum to make further progress towards its goal of building the most capable, hardware-agnostic environment for quantum software development. Horizon Quantum intends to expand support for trapped-ion systems in Triple Alpha, along with enhancing the real-time runtime capabilities within its execution infrastructure. This is expected to enable advanced functionality, including general control flow, dynamic memory allocation, and concurrent classical/quantum function evaluation, empowering developers to go beyond the limits of static circuit execution and create adaptive, expressive quantum programs. By tightly integrating Triple Alpha with frontier quantum computing systems, Horizon Quantum aims to ensure that its software infrastructure provides developers with the most direct path to broad quantum advantage.

“I could not be more delighted to be working with IonQ to bring trapped ion and world-leading gate fidelities to our testbed,” said Horizon Quantum Founder and CEO Dr Joe Fitzsimons. “Bringing a state-of-the-art system with the capabilities of hundreds of qubits will provide an important and cutting-edge resource to bear in our quest to unlock broad quantum advantage for developers.”

About Horizon Quantum

Horizon Quantum [Nasdaq: HQ] is on a mission is to unlock broad quantum advantage by building software infrastructure that empowers developers to use quantum computing to solve the world’s toughest computational problems. Founded in 2018 by Dr Fitzsimons, a leading researcher and former professor with more than two decades of experience in quantum computing, Horizon Quantum seeks to bridge the gap between today’s quantum hardware and tomorrow’s applications through the creation of advanced software development tools. Its integrated development environment, Triple Alpha, enables developers to write sophisticated, hardware-agnostic quantum programs at multiple levels of abstraction. Learn more at www.horizonquantum.com.

About IonQ

IonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world’s leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ’s newest generation of quantum computers, the forthcoming IonQ Tempo, will be the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services, AstraZeneca, and NVIDIA achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance.

Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ has operations in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Washington, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Toronto, and the United Kingdom. Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across land, sea, air, and space. IonQ is making quantum platforms more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at IonQ.com.

Note to Investors Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements. The expectations, estimates, and projections of the businesses of Horizon Quantum and IonQ may differ from their actual results and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “potential,” “plan” “enable,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements and Horizon Quantum and IonQ therefore caution against placing undue reliance on any of these forward- looking statements. Many of these factors are outside of the control of Horizon Quantum and IonQ and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (1) statements regarding estimates and forecasts of other financial, performance and operational metrics and projections of market opportunity; (2) references with respect to the anticipated benefits of the strategic relationship with IonQ; (3) the outcome of any efforts to integrate IonQ’s trapped-ion technology with Horizon Quantum’s software infrastructure; (4) Horizon Quantum’s ability to scale and grow its business, and the advantages and expected growth of Horizon Quantum; (5) the cash position of Horizon Quantum; (6) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the recently completed business combination with dMY Squared Technology Group, Inc., which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of Horizon Quantum to grow and manage growth profitably and source and retain its key employees; (7) costs related to the strategic relationship with IonQ; (8) changes in applicable laws and regulations or political and economic developments; (9) the possibility that Horizon Quantum may be adversely affected by other economic, business and/or competitive factors; (10) Horizon Quantum’s estimates of expenses and profitability; (11) difficulties operating Horizon Quantum’s quantum processors and the possibility that the quantum processors do not provide the advantages that Horizon Quantum expects; (12) the ability of Horizon Quantum to integrate access to its quantum computing test bed, including IonQ’s technology, within its Triple Alpha platform; (13) the ability of Horizon Quantum’s coding languages to provide additional abstraction when compared to other quantum computing solutions; (14) the entry into the Quantum Systems Agreement, dated March 31, 2026 among Horizon Quantum and IonQ, Inc. (the “IonQ Agreement”), and Horizon Quantum’s ability to recognize the benefits of the IonQ Agreement; (15) the ability to maintain the listing of Horizon Quantum’s Class A ordinary shares and warrants on Nasdaq; and (16) other risks and uncertainties included in the “Risk Factors” sections of the Registration Statement on Form F-4 filed by Horizon Quantum in connection with the Business Combination, other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by Horizon Quantum, and those described under the heading “Risk Factors” in IonQ’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. New risks emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all risks, nor can management assess the impact of all factors on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Horizon Quantum and IonQ do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in their expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260409584530/en/

Contact

Horizon Quantum media contact
Yanina Blaclard
media@horizonquantum.com

Horizon Quantum investor contact
Katherine Bailon
investors@horizonquantum.com

IonQ media contacts
Cheryl Krauss
cheryl.krauss@ionq.co

Tor Constantino
tor.constantino@ionq.co

IonQ investor contact
investors@ionq.co

Source : Horizon Quantum Holdings Ltd.