FEATURED NEWS
- May 22, 2026Charity
Old Bags Luncheon Celebrates 27 Years as the Brand Prepares for a New Chapter
Old Bags Luncheon ™, a Palm Beach charity institution, is celebrating 27 years of philanthropic fundraising as founder Eileen Cornacchia prepares the organization for future ownership and wider international expansion. (Old Bags Luncheon, source: Old Bags Luncheon) Founded in April 1999, the luxury handbag fundraising platform has spent nearly three decades building a reputation around charity luncheons, designer auctions, and socially driven donor events that have reached communities across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The brand, Cornacchia highlights, has grown purely by word of mouth, driven through personal referrals and community enthusiasm. She shares, “I never did advertising anywhere in the world. This grew simply because more people sought to replicate the same experience in their own community.” That growth has expanded the event into high-profile seasonal markets, including Southampton and Saratoga Springs , where she notes that influential local committees and honorary chairpersons help elevate participation and fundraising visibility. “People open an invitation and see names they know and trust, and suddenly they want to be part of it too,” she adds. Old Bags Luncheon™ events combine luxury handbag auctions with celebrity guest appearances and charitable giving. Cornacchia points to past events that have featured high-profile celebrities and pop-cultural icons , which she believes signal the caliber of gathering Old Bags Luncheon™ has strived to deliver since its inception. According to her, the atmosphere surrounding the luncheons has always mattered as much as the fundraising itself. “I want everybody leaving there saying they hope the event comes back next year,” she shares. “The women are donating to a good cause, finding beautiful handbags at auction prices, and spending time together in a joyful environment.” Luxury handbags remain the core of the organization’s identity, with committee members and attendees often contributing designer pieces sourced from personal collections and retail relationships. Cornacchia believes those contributions helped transform the auctions into major fundraising drivers over time. She shares, “People started bringing better and better handbags every year.” (Old Bags Luncheon™ 2026 at The Breakers Palm Beach, source: Diana Zapata) As Old Bags Luncheon™ reaches new milestones, Cornacchia is actively seeking buyers interested in carrying the brand into its next phase. During that process, she is offering to remain with the business for one year post-acquisition to personally guide the next generation of charitable partners through the model she has refined over nearly three decades. “I would stay on and teach the next generation how to run the events. There’s a formula to it, and after all these years, I know what keeps people excited and engaged,” she explains. Cornacchia has also developed a detailed operational guidebook that outlines the event model, committee structure, auction process, and organizational strategy used throughout the brand’s expansion. Interest in the luxury handbag sector continues to grow globally , according to Cornacchia, who recently attended a handbag-focused event hosted by a luxury auction house. She notes that the experience reinforced her belief that Old Bags Luncheon™ holds strong long-term potential within charitable and luxury markets. Trademark expansion also remains underway, including a pending trademark application in Japan, which Cornacchia identifies as one of the strongest luxury handbag markets internationally. She adds that future growth opportunities could also include Great Britain and the UAE. “Word of mouth carried this business from Palm Beach to other parts of the world,” she remarks. “I still believe there are many places where this concept can grow and thrive.” Old Bags Luncheon™ now enters its next chapter with Cornacchia focused on preserving the organization’s philanthropic culture while identifying ownership capable of expanding the brand’s international presence and longstanding fundraising legacy.
- May 22, 2026Transportation
SCEND becomes one of the few UK logistics providers to hold B Corp Certification
SCEND, the eCommerce fulfilment and third-party logistics ( 3PL ) provider, has been awarded B Corp Certification by B Lab, placing it among a vanishingly small group of UK logistics operators independently verified against the standard. Of the approximately 3,500 UK 3PLs in the market, only a small handful are B Corps. SCEND's B Impact Assessment score of 93.7 sits comfortably above the 80-point threshold required for certification. The certification covers governance, employee practices, environmental impact, and community engagement, requiring demonstrable outcomes rather than stated policies, and is subject to ongoing reassessment as businesses grow. It sits alongside SCEND's existing ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certifications adding another layer of external verification to an operational framework that was already being held to account. "There's a version of growth that looks good on a spreadsheet and not much else," said Jack Crumpton, Co-Founder of SCEND. "We didn't set out in 2017 to become a B Corp - we just made decisions we could defend to ourselves. B Corp is the external audit of whether we actually did. The fact that fulfilment as a sector is so under-represented in the certification tells you something about how far it has to go, and we'd rather be part of changing that than waiting for it to change." One shift the certification process made tangible was how SCEND measures success. Revenue growth remained important, but it was no longer the only metric that mattered. Client satisfaction, employee wellbeing, and supplier due diligence became equally central - alongside the development of shared values that could be embedded across the business and felt at every level of it. SCEND worked with B Corp specialists The Pollinators throughout the certification process. "Logistics has such an important role to play in shaping more responsible supply chains, and SCEND's curiosity about the certification translated into practical changes with real impact across the business. Their commitment to doing business with greater transparency, accountability and care really aligned with our own values," said a representative from the firm. The sector isn't typically associated with this kind of accountability. For SCEND, the certification reflects a longer-term commitment to how the business is run, not simply a milestone to mark. What began as a regional operation has grown into a business with international reach, and the same principles that shaped it then are now being held to an internationally recognised standard. B Corp Certification represents a point of accountability for what comes next: growth that holds itself to something.
- May 22, 2026Land & Property
BKREA and Crexi Release the Next Installment of “Conversation with the Chairman” Featuring Bob Knakal
BK Real Estate Advisors (“BKREA”) and Crexi have released the latest installment of “ Conversation with the Chairman ,” an ongoing thought leadership series featuring commercial real estate industry veteran Bob Knakal, Chairman and CEO of BKREA. The newest conversation explores key trends shaping the New York City investment sales market, including market timing, investor behavior, pricing dynamics, development opportunities, and the long-term outlook for commercial real estate in an evolving economic environment. Drawing on more than four decades of experience and over 2,402 building sales totaling more than $24.2 billion in transaction volume, Knakal shares insights on how owners, investors, and brokers can navigate today’s market with greater clarity and discipline. “Markets change constantly, but the fundamentals of success remain remarkably consistent,” said Knakal. “The ability to interpret data, understand human behavior, and maintain discipline during uncertain periods is what separates successful investors and brokers from everyone else.” The “Conversation with the Chairman” series, produced in partnership with Crexi, is designed to provide actionable insights and candid perspectives from one of the most accomplished brokerage careers in US commercial real estate history. The series continues to attract strong engagement across the industry by combining real-world transaction experience with timely market analysis. Throughout the discussion, Knakal addresses: • Current investment sales activity and buyer sentiment • The evolving development site market across New York City • How sophisticated investors are evaluating risk and opportunity • The role of data and market intelligence in pricing strategy • Lessons brokers and owners can apply in today’s environment The release comes amid continued momentum for BKREA, which has recently expanded its media presence, speaking engagements, research initiatives, and mentorship platform, The Knakal Dealmakers Knetwork. The latest “Conversation with the Chairman” is available through BKREA and Crexi channels.
- May 22, 2026Lifestyle
Lillie&Lee Earns Multiple 2026 Telly Awards for Storytelling, Creative Direction, and Brand Innovation
Lillie&Lee , the wellness brand founded around the intersection of pet care, rescue advocacy, and community-driven storytelling, has been recognized with multiple honors at the 47th Annual Telly Awards , one of the industry’s leading distinctions for excellence in video and television content across all screens. Image Credit: Sara Jane Moore The company received recognition across four categories within the Branded Content division, including Craft-Editing, Craft-Videography/Cinematography, General E-Commerce/Retail, and General Pets & Animals. The wins highlight the growing influence of purpose-driven digital storytelling in shaping modern consumer brands and online communities. Founded by Lee Asher and developed alongside D.J. Gugenheim , Lillie&Lee has built a significant audience through emotionally resonant content centered on rescue animals, wellness education, and everyday care rituals. The company recently expanded its identity into a broader wellness platform serving both pets and their owners. The awarded campaign reflected that evolution, blending cinematic production quality with authentic storytelling rooted in the brand’s mission. According to the company, the project was conceptualized and overseen collaboratively by Lee Asher and D.J. Gugenheim, with former The Dodo creative Eric Ambrosino serving as creative producer and editor. “When I asked my brother to come help me build the wellness company I founded into a larger and more expansive business,” Asher commented, “part of what I was excited about was working with my brother, but more than that, it was the opportunity to utilize his skills as a veteran film producer to help us tell our stories in the most impactful way possible.” “These awards represent more than creative recognition for us,” says Gugenheim. “They validate the idea that audiences respond most strongly to emotional and real storytelling. Everything we create is grounded in real-life experiences with rescue animals, daily wellness routines, and the emotional connection people have with their pets. Eric brought an incredible editorial instinct to the project, and together we wanted to create something that felt cinematic while remaining deeply personal.” Image Credit: Lillie&Lee The Telly Awards, established in 1979, honor excellence in video and television production across branded content, television, streaming, digital media, and social platforms. Over the last several years, Lillie&Lee has emerged as one of the most visible pet wellness brands online, building a community of more than 900,000 followers through rescue-centered storytelling and educational wellness content, making it one of the most followed pet wellness brands. The company’s product line includes a plethora of wellness products designed for both animals and people in the market, with an emphasis on human-grade ingredients and natural sourcing. The recognition also underscores the increasing importance of editorial-quality branded storytelling in the wellness and consumer product sectors, where audiences continue to gravitate toward authenticity, emotional resonance, and mission-led narratives. As Lillie&Lee continues its expansion into digital education, wellness programming, and community engagement, the company says the focus will remain on creating content that connects audiences not just to products, but to the larger philosophy behind the brand. “People can tell when something is manufactured solely for marketing,” Gugenheim added. “What resonates today is substance, consistency, and genuine care. That has always been the foundation of Lillie&Lee.”
- May 22, 2026Land & Property
BKREA Releases May 2026 Edition of Development Newsletter Highlighting NYC Development Trends, Legislative Updates, and Market Intelligence
BK Real Estate Advisors (BKREA), led by Chairman and CEO Bob Knakal , has released the May 2026 edition of its highly anticipated Development Newsletter , providing developers, investors, property owners, and industry professionals with in-depth analysis of New York City’s evolving development site market in New York City. The monthly publication continues BKREA’s commitment to delivering actionable market intelligence focused on development and redevelopment opportunities across New York City, with a particular emphasis on Manhattan’s most active development corridors. The May edition features updates on interest rates, construction pipeline activity, zoning and legislative developments, notable development site sales, and BKREA’s expanding research initiatives designed to help market participants better understand trends shaping the city’s real estate landscape. “Access to quality information has never been more important in New York City real estate,” said Bob Knakal, Chairman and CEO of BKREA. “Our goal with the Development Newsletter is to provide owners, developers, lenders, and investors with meaningful insights that help them make smarter decisions in an increasingly complex market.” The May 2026 newsletter also highlights BKREA’s ongoing expansion in the development site sector, where the firm currently represents billions of dollars in exclusive listings and continues to build one of the most comprehensive proprietary databases of land and development transactions in New York City. Key topics covered in the May edition include: Manhattan development pipeline activity and active construction sites Interest rate trends and their impact on land values and development feasibility Major zoning and legislative initiatives affecting development opportunities Recent notable development site transactions and market comparables Updates from BKREA’s Policy & Zoning SWAT Team Air rights market insights and development strategies New research and thought leadership initiatives from BKREA Recent media coverage and industry recognition featuring Bob Knakal and BKREA The newsletter also continues BKREA’s focus on delivering historical and data-driven context through initiatives such as the Knakal Land Index, a long-term analysis of Manhattan development site transactions designed to provide deeper visibility into market cycles, pricing behavior, and development trends. In addition to market analysis, the May edition showcases BKREA’s growing platform of educational content, industry events, and development-focused advisory services aimed at helping clients maximize property values and navigate increasingly complex zoning and entitlement environments. BKREA’s Development Newsletter has quickly become a valuable resource for New York City real estate professionals seeking timely information on market activity, policy changes, development trends, and investment opportunities. To read the May 2026 Development Newsletter, visit: https://www.bkrea.com/development-newsletter/may-2026
- May 22, 2026Lifestyle
4MYTU Reimagines the Carry-On Around the Front Pocket
4MYTU, the precision-engineered travel brand built around how people actually move, enters summer 2026 with a defining statement: the Front Pocket. Designed to eliminate the most persistent friction points of modern travel, the security bin scramble, the boarding-gate repack, and the mid-layover rummage, the Tank Series Front Pocket is the feature that sets 4MYTU apart in a saturated premium market. Most carry-on luggage treats the exterior as an afterthought. 4MYTU treats it as the point. The Front Pocket: Engineered From Behaviour The Front Pocket was not designed from a brief. It was designed from observation. Security checkpoints, hotel-room repacks, overhead-bin moments: these are the intervals where most bags fail their owners. 4MYTU studied them and built directly against them. The result is a structured, full-access front-opening compartment that operates with the logic of a well-organized workspace, not the compromise of a side pouch. Sized for the items that move in and out dozens of times per trip, laptop, documents, cables, liquids, the Front Pocket with Front Opening removes friction from moments most travelers have quietly accepted as unavoidable. The Tank Series in Blush Pink, with its multi-functional handle, leads the summer product story: a seasonally distinctive, editorially sharp expression of a brand whose differentiating idea is, at every level, the Front Pocket. Wheel Performance: Built for the Long Run Beyond the Front Pocket, the Tank Series delivers where most luggage quietly fails: the wheels. In a category where brands have competed on color and price while underinvesting in mechanics, 4MYTU's wheel system is engineered for smooth, near-silent movement across the full lifespan of the bag, not just its first season. Real-world feedback consistently confirms what the engineering promises: clean rolling across cobblestones, marble terminals, and worn airport tile, long after competitor bags begin to catch, rattle, and drag. Wheels are not a commodity detail at 4MYTU. They are a performance story. The 90/10 Trunk: Packing Rethought The standard 50/50 clamshell is so familiar that most travelers have stopped questioning it. 4MYTU did not. The Tank Series Trunk uses a 90/10 structure with Top Opening design, delivering a deeper main compartment and more genuinely usable packing space — a structural advantage that matters most on multi-stop itineraries where reorganizing mid-journey is simply part of the journey. Where a conventional clamshell divides a bag evenly and opens flat, the 90/10 Top Opening keeps the majority of packed contents stable and accessible from above, reducing disruption and making repacking faster. This is not a marginal gain; it is a meaningful structural decision, validated in 4MYTU's own performance data, where frequent travelers consistently recognize its value once the advantage is made clear. Design Recognized. Engineering Validated. The Tank Series was awarded a 2025 IDEA Design Award (Bronze) , one of the most respected design recognitions in the industry. The award reflects the same discipline that drives every product decision at 4MYTU: build from behavior first, then refine until the object earns its place. That discipline extends to materials. Each 4MYTU suitcase offsets approximately 20 kg of CO₂ , and the inner lining incorporates recycled content equivalent to approximately 15 plastic bottles . These are not marketing additions. They are construction decisions. About 4MYTU 4MYTU is a precision-engineered travel brand designing luggage around the realities of modern travel. The Tank Series featuring Front Pocket with Front Opening on carry-on, and 90/10 Top Opening on the Trunk is recognized with a 2025 IDEA Design Award (Bronze) and available now at 4mytu.com .
- May 22, 2026Health
Tribute Equine Nutrition Addresses Gastric Health and Better Nutrient Absorption with 2026 Formula Upgrades
With research indicating that over 90% of performance horses and half of light-work horses suffer from gastric ulcers, Tribute® Equine Nutrition upgraded the formulas of several products last year. The company proudly announced that these upgrades have expanded to the entire Tribute product line, standardizing its advanced gut-health technologies across nearly all formulas to address a growing industry-wide health concern. “As horse people, we understand the frustration that comes from owners struggling with their horse’s digestive health and performance,” said Nicole Rambo, Ph.D., Equine Nutritionist for Tribute Equine Nutrition. “Science- and research-backed results shouldn't be a luxury. By bringing Constant Comfort® and our new Uptake Technology™ to our entire line of full-intake feeds, we’re supporting the health of horses from the inside out through their daily nutrition.” The 2026 rollout focuses on three pillars of equine physiology: Added Gastric Buffering: The expanded inclusion of Constant Comfort® (a seaweed-derived calcium) provides a natural pH buffer. This formula is designed to stabilize the stomach environment for 2 to 4 hours post-meal, bridging the gap between feedings when horses are most vulnerable. Bio-Available Nutrient Delivery: The debut of Uptake Technology™ introduces a complex matrix of prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, digestive enzymes, and a key addition, phospholipids , which assist in the breakdown of fats to maximize digestive and caloric efficiency, a critical update for hard-keepers and senior horses. Allergen-Conscious Ration Balancers: Responding to the rise in sensitivities, Tribute’s line of ration balancers is now 100% flaxseed-free and molasses-free , which achieves a lower NSC profile. Industry Impact & Availability This update represents one of the largest formula standardizations in Tribute's history. The 2026 enhancements will be phased into all of Tribute’s standard feeds (excluding Ultra GH, Wholesome Blends™, and race lines) throughout the year. About Tribute Equine Nutrition Tribute Equine Nutrition, a brand by Kalmbach Feeds, Inc., is a trusted provider of superior equine nutrition, specializing in fixed-formula products with premium, high-quality ingredients. Designed by Ph.D. Equine Nutritionists, Tribute products are fortified and balanced with essential nutrients to meet a horse’s specific needs. With a wide range of feeds and supplements, including ration balancers, senior care, and treats, Tribute Equine Nutrition also offers personalized nutrition plans and products to give horse owners peace of mind for every unique animal. For more information, visit www.tributeequinenutrition.com .
- May 22, 2026Business
SEF Announces Completion of 34-Acre Greenhouse Expansion for Vine Fresh Acres
SEF® is proud to announce the successful completion of a 34-acre greenhouse expansion for Vine Fresh Acres, a leading producer in the North American fresh produce sector. Delivered in partnership with Ruthven Greenhouse Construction Ltd., this milestone project significantly enhances Vine Fresh Acres’ capacity for high-quality English cucumber production. “We are thrilled with the quality and timely execution of this project by SEF,” said Jake Neufeld, Owner of Vine Fresh Acres. “Right from the quoting and design process we were met with knowledgeable staff that were committed to excellence. The SEF team has exceeded my expectation, and I look forward to working with them in the future.” Designed to support optimal growing conditions and operational performance, the new facility integrates the highest performance growing systems with enhanced structure designed for Ontario’s climate. “We are very proud to work with the team at Vine Fresh Acres on another expansion,” said Brandon Waghorn, Commercial Director of SEF. “We’ve worked together to deliver a complete greenhouse project that not only meets production demands but also supports their entire business with the integration of both a warehouse and worker housing.” Located in Leamington, Ontario which is often referred to as the greenhouse capital of North America, this expansion further reinforces the region’s role as a hub for innovation and growth in the greenhouse industry. “Projects like this reflect the strength of strong partnerships and the confidence in building for the future,” said Jonathan Dick, CEO of SEF. “We’re proud to have delivered a facility that supports Vine Fresh Acres’ growth now and for many years to come.” The completed structure is purpose-built, enabling Vine Fresh Acres to increase output while maintaining consistent product quality. The project also underscores SEF®’s expertise in delivering complex, large-scale greenhouse solutions for the needs of commercial growers. Highlight video of this project: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/south-essex-fabricating-inc_sef-webuildfutures-greenhouse-activity-7457763601488084992-PWDz?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAABiuYSEBdrvR0uf5QD3xwck8MknLHIbUbbE About SEF® Located in Leamington, Ontario, SEF has been a pioneer in the North American greenhouse industry for over 30 years, evolving from greenhouse components to premium full turn-key solutions, including design, manufacturing, construction, and project management. With a focus on maximum performance, innovation, quality, and vertical integration , SEF powers productivity and industry growth region wide.
- May 22, 2026Health
NeuroDex Develops Blood-Based Biomarker Research Platform for Neurological Diseases
MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES — May 21, 2026 — NeuroDex , a biotechnology research company, is advancing a blood-based biomarker research platform focused on studying molecular signals linked to neurological diseases. The company’s work centers on neuron-derived extracellular vesicles, microscopic particles released by brain cells that may carry biological information into the bloodstream. Neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and related disorders often develop gradually before symptoms become clear. This has increased scientific interest in technologies that can help researchers better understand brain biology through less invasive methods. NeuroDex’s approach focuses on extracellular vesicles, which are naturally released by cells and carry proteins, genetic material, and other molecular information. Neuron-derived vesicles can cross the blood-brain barrier and circulate in blood, creating a potential research pathway for studying brain disease biomarkers . “Neurons continuously release vesicles that contain important biological information,” said Dr. Erez Eitan, CEO and co-founder of NeuroDex. “By studying these signals, researchers may gain a clearer view of biological changes associated with brain health.” Focus on Neuron-Derived Vesicle Analysis The company’s ExoSORT™ technology is designed to isolate neuron-derived extracellular vesicles from blood samples. This step is important because blood contains vesicles from many cell types, while neuron-derived vesicles represent only a small portion of the total. Once isolated, these vesicles can be analyzed for proteins and other biomarkers associated with neurological disease research. The platform may support studies related to Alzheimer’s early detection , Parkinson’s diagnosis blood test technologies, and broader neurological disease diagnosis research. NeuroDex emphasized that the platform remains part of ongoing research efforts and is not intended to replace clinical diagnostic procedures. Supporting Brain Disease Biomarker Research Interest in blood test for brain disease research has grown as scientists look for ways to better study neurodegenerative conditions. Reliable biomarkers may help researchers monitor disease progression, evaluate treatment response, and improve clinical trial design. “If researchers want to understand brain biology from blood, specificity is essential,” Dr. Eitan said. “The goal is to ensure that the biological material being analyzed reflects neuronal origin.” About NeuroDex NeuroDex is a biotechnology research company focused on blood-based biomarker analysis and neurological disease research involving neuron-derived extracellular vesicles. Its work supports scientific studies related to brain disease biomarkers and molecular signals associated with neurological health. For more information, visit: https://neurodex.co
- May 22, 2026Finance & Loan
ExpressVPN Highlights Increased Demand for VPN Services Amid Rising Global Cybersecurity Concerns
ExpressVPN has released an updated industry-focused statement addressing the rising global demand for virtual private network (VPN) services as cybersecurity risks continue to increase across consumer and business environments. The update reflects broader digital trends showing that individuals and organizations are prioritizing encrypted connectivity, online privacy tools, and network security solutions in response to growing threats such as data breaches, identity theft, phishing attacks, and public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity incidents have become more frequent and more disruptive across multiple sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, and government services. Increased dependence on cloud platforms, remote access systems, and mobile connectivity has created additional exposure to unauthorized access attempts. VPN technology has become a widely used method for securing internet traffic and reducing the risk of data interception during online activity, particularly in untrusted network environments. ExpressVPN notes that VPN usage has expanded beyond traditional privacy applications and is increasingly adopted as a core element of broader digital security practices. Consumers are using VPN services to encrypt communications, protect browsing activity, and minimize tracking risks. Businesses are also integrating VPN solutions as part of remote work infrastructure to provide secure access to internal networks, confidential documentation, and cloud-based systems. The update highlights that modern cybersecurity challenges extend beyond malware and viruses. Attackers increasingly rely on social engineering methods, credential theft, and sophisticated phishing campaigns to access personal and corporate data. Public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, cafés, and shared spaces remain a high-risk area for data interception, especially when users connect without encrypted protections. VPN tools offer a method for encrypting transmitted data and reducing exposure to network-level surveillance. ExpressVPN's statement emphasizes that online privacy has become a growing concern due to increasing tracking capabilities across websites, applications, and advertising platforms. Data collection methods have evolved significantly, enabling third parties to analyze browsing patterns, user locations, and device identifiers. VPN services are often used to mask IP addresses, reduce tracking exposure, and create a more private browsing experience. The statement also addresses increased VPN adoption among remote workers. With many organizations maintaining hybrid work models, secure access to internal systems remains essential. Remote connectivity often depends on home networks, shared devices, or mobile connections that may not meet corporate security standards. VPN solutions are commonly deployed to establish encrypted tunnels between users and business networks, helping reduce risk related to unsecured internet connections. In addition to remote work security, VPN adoption has increased due to a rise in global travel activity. Travelers frequently rely on public networks, which may be vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks, malicious hotspots, or data monitoring. VPN technology provides a protective layer that helps secure online banking, email communications, and confidential business transactions while using shared internet access points. ExpressVPN also notes that digital security risks have expanded due to the growth of smart devices and connected ecosystems. Smart TVs, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and home automation systems often connect directly to the internet. Many consumer devices lack advanced built-in security measures, creating potential vulnerabilities. VPN services may support broader network security by offering encrypted traffic routing when configured through compatible routers or network-level setups. The statement identifies transparency and trust as critical factors for VPN adoption. Consumers and organizations increasingly evaluate providers based on encryption standards, server availability, privacy practices, and performance consistency. VPN service selection is often influenced by the ability to maintain stable speeds while supporting secure browsing, video streaming, and high-volume data transfers. ExpressVPN's update also highlights the importance of understanding how VPN services work in relation to cybersecurity expectations. VPN tools can protect data traffic from interception and reduce exposure to certain tracking mechanisms. However, broader cybersecurity practices remain necessary, including strong password management, multi-factor authentication, system updates, and endpoint security controls. VPN use is positioned as one part of a larger security framework rather than a complete replacement for other protective measures. The announcement notes that government policy discussions and regulatory environments continue to influence public awareness of online privacy. As digital surveillance debates expand, VPN usage often rises in regions experiencing heightened restrictions, censorship concerns, or privacy challenges. Demand for encrypted communication tools tends to increase when individuals seek additional control over online activity and personal data. ExpressVPN further points to increasing consumer awareness regarding identity theft. Stolen credentials and compromised personal information are frequently traded online, leading to financial fraud and unauthorized access to sensitive accounts. VPN services may reduce exposure to certain interception risks, particularly when used on unsecured networks, helping prevent credential theft during login sessions. The statement also outlines the role of VPNs in supporting safer digital access for students and families. With increased online learning and digital entertainment consumption, households are more active across multiple devices and platforms. VPN services are increasingly used as an added security layer for home connectivity, particularly when personal devices are used for banking, messaging, and private communications. ExpressVPN indicates that demand for privacy-focused technology is expected to remain strong as cyber threats continue to evolve. Digital connectivity has become a daily necessity, and online risks have become more complex as attackers adapt to new technologies. VPN adoption is expected to continue rising as users seek encrypted connectivity and improved control over online privacy. The statement concludes that cybersecurity awareness is becoming a central factor shaping consumer technology decisions worldwide. VPN services remain a widely adopted tool for protecting internet activity, strengthening secure access, and supporting privacy in an environment of increasing digital risk. About ExpressVPN ExpressVPN is a provider of virtual private network services offering encrypted connectivity solutions designed to support privacy and secure internet access. The service is used globally by individuals and organizations seeking enhanced online security, IP masking, and protection against network-based threats. Contact Media Relation Info@expressvpn.com
- May 21, 2026Legal & Law
OpenSpecter Launches For Free, Self Hosted, Open Source Legal AI Platform
Last year, a small law firm posted to Reddit that Harvey AI had declined to schedule them a product demo. The reason, as reported publicly, was that their firm was too small. The post gathered hundreds of upvotes from lawyers sharing nearly identical experiences: per-user pricing that runs to $1,200 a month, minimum contract commitments that rule out boutique practices entirely, and in one widely circulated case, a $25,000 quote for four Legora licenses that went without a follow-up call. Today, Quantera.ai releases OpenSpecter : a free, open-source legal AI platform covering the same category of capabilities, built specifically for every firm those conversations excluded. OpenSpecter is self-hosted, and available now at github.com/QuanteraAI/OpenSpecter. A Shifting Legal Technology Landscape Legal AI has moved from an emerging category to an established market in a short span of time. Platforms such as Harvey AI and Legora have secured significant funding, signed enterprise contracts with major law firms, and positioned AI-assisted document review, legal research, and contract analysis as the new baseline for competitive legal practice. The market validation is real. The access problem is equally real. Harvey has been reported to decline product demos to firms below a certain size threshold. Legora has quoted individual small practices at prices that exceed the annual technology budget of many boutique teams. The legal professionals locked out of these tools are not fringe cases. They are solo practitioners, regional firms, and in-house teams at growth-stage companies: a substantial portion of the profession, practicing the same law, with none of the same tools. "Harvey is quoting $1,200 per user per month, and in documented cases is declining to demo to small firms at all," said Akash Shrivastava, founder of Quantera.ai. "Legora is selling four licenses for $25,000 and not following up. Those prices do not reflect what it costs to build legal AI. They reflect a deliberate decision about who gets access to it. We made a different decision." said Akash. An Infrastructure-First Approach to Legal AI OpenSpecter is structured as a free, open-source, self-hosted platform. Rather than a subscription service with a vendor-managed backend, it provides legal teams with full control over deployment, data handling, and model selection. The platform covers the core workflows that define enterprise legal AI: document analysis and contract review, legal research with inline citation verification, tabular extraction across large document sets, and reusable workflow templates for tasks such as conditions precedent checklists, NDA summaries, SPA reviews, and change-of-control analyses. A matter-scoped project structure allows teams to organize documents, conversations, and review outputs by client or case, maintaining full context across every session. The legal research layer cross-references more than 31 million legal documents across 178 jurisdictions, spanning common law systems including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Singapore alongside civil law jurisdictions across Europe and Latin America, and international bodies including the United Nations and the Council of Europe. Every citation is verified before it surfaces in a workflow output. The platform is built on a modern technical stack: Next.js 16, React 19, TypeScript, and Supabase, with Cloudflare R2-compatible object storage and a database schema that enforces Row Level Security across all content tables from the ground up. Addressing Barriers to Adoption The deployment model is built around user control. OpenSpecter runs within the user's own infrastructure. Documents and data stay inside the firm's environment. The platform connects to AI providers of the user's choosing, including Anthropic Claude, Google Gemini, and any OpenRouter-compatible model, using the firm's own API credentials. There is no platform subscription, no per-seat fee, and no vendor data pipeline. By removing licensing costs and per-seat pricing entirely, OpenSpecter makes the category accessible to firms that enterprise contracts have consistently excluded. A solo practitioner, a three-person criminal defense firm, and a mid-size regional practice all deploy the same system under the same terms as a large commercial team. This model also eliminates vendor lock-in. Because the platform is open source and self-hosted, legal teams are not dependent on a single provider's pricing decisions, product roadmap, or data policies. The system adapts to the firm, not the other way around. Cultural and Market Context The pricing debate in legal AI is well documented and increasingly public. Reddit threads on r/legaltech have accumulated thousands of comments from practitioners describing quotes they received, demos they were refused, and minimum commitments that put leading platforms out of reach. The frustration is not with the technology itself. It is with the decision to build that technology exclusively for the segment of the profession that needs it least. OpenSpecter takes a different position. Its development prioritizes accessibility and transparency over growth metrics or enterprise positioning. The codebase is publicly auditable. Firms can inspect how documents are processed, which models handle sensitive client data, and how outputs are generated. That level of visibility is not available in any closed legal AI system currently on the market. "We are not releasing this to start a conversation about access to legal AI," said Shrivastava. "That conversation has been happening for years, in public, on forums, inside firms that know exactly what these tools can do and cannot get near them. We are releasing this because the conversation deserves an answer." Open Collaboration and Future Development OpenSpecter's invites participation from a global community of developers and legal professionals. The project is available at github.com/QuanteraAI/OpenSpecter, where the full codebase, issue tracker, and pull request process are publicly accessible. This collaborative model reflects a broader shift across professional software toward open, auditable systems that prioritize user control over centralized ownership. Legal AI is a category with significant implications for client confidentiality, data sovereignty, and professional responsibility. The argument for transparency in how these systems are built and operated is not merely philosophical. It is practical. OpenSpecter is in active development. Contributions from both developers and legal practitioners are welcome, and the project will continue to evolve in response to real-world use. ABOUT QUANTERA.AI AND OPENSPECTER Quantera.ai deploys agents in financial workflows, building applied AI systems and infrastructure for professional environments. OpenSpecter, Quantera's open-source legal AI platform, provides law firms, in-house legal teams, and independent practitioners with tools for document analysis, contract review, legal research, tabular review, and workflow automation. The platform is self-hosted, and free to deploy. Firms supply their own AI provider credentials (BYOK) and run the system within their own infrastructure. Additional information is available at openspecter.com. The project codebase is publicly accessible on Github . For inquiries, contact Akash Shrivastava at akash@quantera.ai or on his LinkedIn .
- May 21, 2026Business
Grid My Business Connects AI Tools to Live Local SEO Data
Grid My Business, an all-in-one local SEO platform , has released a new update introducing MCP Server integration, expanding how agencies and businesses access local SEO data inside AI-powered workflows. The Grid My Business MCP Server gives AI assistants direct read access to account data, removing the manual export and data-gathering steps that typically come before local SEO reporting. Once connected, AI tools can retrieve live data on demand without requiring users to switch tabs or copy and paste information between platforms. The MCP Server supports Claude Desktop, Claude Code, Codex (IDE Extension, CLI, and app), Cursor, and Antigravity. Data accessible through the integration includes: Ranking data showing exactly where a location stands before generating a report Competitor positions revealing the gap between a client and top-ranking rivals Profile analysis identifying factors affecting a GMB Score Review sentiment summaries across client accounts without manually reading individual reviews Performance metrics showing calls and clicks generated by a listing on demand According to Mark Gan, Community Manager at Grid My Business: "Agencies managing multiple locations spend a significant amount of time gathering data before they can write a single line of a report. The MCP Server removes that step entirely." Businesses and agencies can explore the full platform at https://gridmybusiness.com .
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