- May 13, 2026Apps & Software
Graphene-Enhanced Desalination Membrane Technology Advances to XPRIZE Water Scarcity Semifinals
Graphene-Enhanced Desalination Membrane Technology Advances to XPRIZE Water Scarcity Semifinals Clean TeQ Water (ASX: CNQ), NematiQ and Monash University have advanced as a Semifinalist team in XPRIZE Water Scarcity – the US$119 million, five-year global competition to revolutionise seawater desalination. Competing as the Graphene Enhanced Reverse Osmosis (GE-RO) team , the partnership is one of 17 Track B Semifinalists selected from a global field representing nine countries. XPRIZE Water Scarcity is designed to drive widespread access to clean water by creating reliable, sustainable and affordable seawater desalination systems. The competition is divided into two technical tracks: Track A focuses on system-level desalination innovations, while Track B targets novel materials and methods for the membranes themselves. Track B specifically seeks direct replacements for, or transformative enhancements to, conventional seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) membranes, with a minimum operational lifetime of 10 years or more. The GE-RO platform applies a nanoscale Graphene Membrane coating to commercial thin-film composite SWRO substrates using the team’s proprietary shear-alignment process. During Qualified Teams Testing, the team successfully coated and validated the GE-RO process on conventional DuPont FilmTec and Hydranautics seawater reverse osmosis substrates, demonstrating platform compatibility across two of the most widely deployed commercial SWRO membrane families. GE-RO finished with 99.6% salt rejection and no decline in flux after completing the full accelerated durability protocol: six sequential stress blocks (thermal, pH, scaling, mechanical, biofouling and oxidant exposure) designed to simulate multi-year operational conditions. Product water following the protocol met World Health Organization drinking water guidelines in full; an uncoated control membrane subjected to the same conditions did not. “Being named a Semifinalist validates years of work by our team alongside Monash University to bring Graphene Membrane technology into the heart of the seawater desalination market,” says Clean TeQ Water CEO Peter Voigt. “Desalination is a critical part of the global response to water scarcity, and we believe GE-RO offers a credible path to longer membrane life, reduced chemical cleaning and lower whole-of-life cost, without requiring operators to change their existing infrastructure.” Graphene-Enhanced Reverse Osmosis (GE-RO) GE-RO is engineered as a drop-in upgrade for existing SWRO plants. The coated membranes fit standard 4040 and 8040 pressure vessels and operate within normal SWRO pressure ranges, allowing adoption without modification to plant infrastructure. Early testing indicates the hydrophilic, low-roughness graphene oxide surface resists organic fouling, biofilm initiation and CaCO3 scaling. These are the three mechanisms that drive cleaning frequency and progressive flux decline in conventional polyamide membranes. In dedicated antifouling testing, GE-RO exhibited a flux decline of 17.8% compared with 23.9% for the standard RO control, and recovered 87.6% of its initial flux after a simple DI water rinse, compared with 72.5% for the control. Professor Mainak Majumder of Monash University, who leads the academic research underpinning the platform and directs the ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing with 2D Materials ( AM2D ), said the Semifinalist outcome reflected the technology’s progression from laboratory science to industrial-scale application. “Our goal has been to turn graphene science into a membrane that desalination plants can use today, without rebuilding their infrastructure,” Professor Majumder said. “These results show the chemistry holding up under exactly the conditions that wear conventional polyamide membranes out, and the Semifinals will let us demonstrate that performance at scale.” The GE-RO team builds on commercial-scale manufacturing experience with the Graphene Enhanced Ultrafiltration (GE-UF) platform, which NematiQ already produces in 4040 and 8040 module formats. Early field trials have also been completed for a PFAS-selective variant of the GE-UF membrane. The next stage of work is expected to involve producing 1812-sized spiral-wound modules on the team’s roll-to-roll demonstration coating line in Melbourne, with side-by-side module testing against conventional SWRO membranes to follow. The team will now progress to Semifinals testing, where up to five teams will advance from the 17 Track B Semifinalists to the Finals. The Semifinals stage assesses the safety, performance, sustainability and scalability of novel materials and methods, with teams submitting Life Cycle Analysis, Safety Data Sheets and a scalability plan. Track B Semifinals testing is scheduled for Q3 2026, with finalist teams announced in Q4 2026. Interested in NematiQ Graphene Membranes? Contact us through the form below.
- May 13, 2026Technology
Facia Introduces DeepLiveness as the New Standard for Liveness Detection
Facia , a leader in biometric identity verification, today announces DeepLiveness, an upgrade to conventional liveness detection built for the generative AI era. Traditional liveness detection confirms proof of presence through a live camera feed. DeepLiveness goes further by verifying that the face is not AI-generated and by performing a full authenticity check on static image uploads submitted to the system. Both checks run together in under 1 second, elevating accuracy while unlocking new use cases where an image upload, rather than a live session, serves as the entry point. Standard liveness was built to defeat printed photos and video replays, not AI-generated faces that pass motion checks without a real human, or digital injection attacks where a synthetic feed is inserted before the check runs. Attackers now deploy both at scale across KYC onboarding and remote authentication. Confirming presence without confirming face authenticity is no longer sufficient. DeepLiveness combines Facia’s 3D liveness verification with its deepfake detection engine into a single unified check with no added latency. Core technical capabilities include: RGB Texture Analysis at 95% signal coverage, identifying synthetic rendering artifacts invisible to standard liveness. Motion Analysis operating at 91%, catching face-swap and injection attacks through micro-movement anomaly detection. Depth Mapping: at 92% signal strength, verifying 3D facial geometry to block injection and flat-image attacks. Neural Anomaly Detection: scoring 96% signal strength, identifying generative model signatures and AI-synthesized identity patterns in real time. Together, all four signals deliver 100% detection coverage, presence confirmed, and face verified as real, with synthetic identities flagged before they reach any downstream system. iBeta Level 2 Compliance maintained across the combined verification layer, with 0% Attack Presentation Classification Error Rate (APCER), zero successful presentation attacks on Android and iOS, confirmed by iBeta Quality Assurance, a NIST-accredited testing laboratory. DeepLiveness records a False Acceptance Rate (FAR) of 0.06% and a False Rejection Rate (FRR) of 0.03%, reducing both fraud risk and legitimate user friction across KYC onboarding and remote authentication workflows. AI-driven identity fraud is accelerating across fintech, banking, and iGaming. Regulators across the EU, UK, and APAC are tightening assurance requirements in response. DeepLiveness closes that gap at the verification layer. “Standard liveness was built for printed photos. DeepLiveness is built for a world where attackers deploy AI-generated faces and virtual camera injections across four signal dimensions simultaneously, all in under one second. That is the new baseline.” - Daniyal Chugtai, CTO, Facia. DeepLiveness is available now through Facia’s existing SDK and REST API. No new integration required. About Facia: Facia is committed to setting a new standard in identity verification by advancing liveness detection and deepfake detection solutions that keep pace with the rapidly evolving threat of AI-generated fraud.
- May 13, 2026Technology
Apexus Tech Expands AI Integration Across Financial Research, Automation Pipelines, and Client-Facing Analytics Tools
Apexus Tech LLC, a startup research firm focused on financial analytics, has expanded its use of artificial intelligence across internal research, automation workflows, and client-facing tools. The initiative is designed to support faster research workflows, improve automation, and expand access to financial insights through natural language tools. AI in Internal Research and Analysis Apexus Tech said large language models are being incorporated into its daily research processes to support financial analysis and information review. The models help research analysts review and synthesize earnings reports, financial filings, industry news, and historical price and volume data. By automating parts of insight extraction, trend identification, and scenario analysis, the tools allow researchers to spend less time on manual data compilation and more time on analysis and interpretation. “Large language models are changing how we conduct research by helping analysts review more information, identify relevant patterns, and move more efficiently from data collection to analysis,” said Zhiqiang, senior research analyst at Apexus. “Tasks that previously required days of manual work can now be completed in minutes, giving our team more time to focus on interpretation and original research.” Automation Pipeline Enhancement Beyond research, Apexus Tech uses LLMs and AI-assisted code generation to automate recurring engineering tasks. From ETL workflows to feature engineering and model monitoring, automation pipelines have become more robust and scalable. The pipelines are designed to reduce manual errors and allow technical teams to focus on system improvements, model performance, and client solution delivery. “AI is becoming an important part of how we manage data pipelines, model deployment, and engineering workflows,” said Ethan, data scientist at Apexus. “It helps us improve code review, identify issues earlier, and build more reliable systems while allowing our team to focus on higher-level technical challenges.” Internal testing shows that AI-driven automation reduced the time required for data preparation and validation by more than 40% while improving consistency and reproducibility. Natural Language Interfaces for Client Applications Apexus Tech is also developing natural language analytics tools for client applications, allowing users to ask questions about investment insights, generate custom reports, and explore financial datasets using plain English. These conversational tools are intended to reduce friction in data exploration and support self-service analytics. By applying large language models to client-facing tools, Apexus Tech aims to provide context-aware insights, alerts, and tailored analysis to users who may not have deep technical or quantitative expertise. The effort reflects Apexus Tech’s broader goal of making financial analytics easier to use across different levels of technical experience. Vision for AI-Enhanced Financial Intelligence Apexus Tech is positioning AI as part of its broader strategy for financial research, workflow automation, and client analytics. The company aims to improve how financial insights are generated, interpreted, and applied. Zhiqiang added, “The integration of AI enables our teams to tackle more complex analytical challenges and deliver deeper, actionable insights to clients. It’s about creating a smarter research environment where human judgment and machine intelligence complement each other.” “We are building systems that can help monitor market developments, detect anomalies, and surface relevant investment signals,” Ethan remarked. “The goal is not to replace analysts, but to support them by reducing repetitive tasks and helping them review information more efficiently.” Training and Knowledge Sharing Apexus Tech has introduced internal training and knowledge-sharing programs. Analysts, data scientists, and developers collaborate on prompt design, workflow development, and automation scripts. The process is intended to align AI adoption with Apexus Tech’s standards for accuracy, security, and compliance. Security, Compliance, and Governance Apexus Tech’s AI systems are subject to internal governance standards covering data privacy, access controls, and auditability. AI models and automated workflows are reviewed for reliability, compliance, and output validation before being used in relevant workflows. About Apexus Tech Founded with the mission to combine advanced quantitative strategies with AI-driven research, Apexus Tech provides sophisticated analytics to institutional clients and private investors worldwide. The company focuses on delivering data-driven insights, predictive analytics, and risk-managed investment strategies.
- May 13, 2026Lifestyle
The Funding Crisis at America's Equine Rescues: How State Line Tack's Ride It Forward Program Offers Crucial Support
The cost of running an equine rescue has rarely been higher . Feed prices remain elevated against pre-pandemic baselines. Veterinary and farrier fees have also increased significantly. But the flow of surrendered or at-risk horses has not slowed. Most non-profit rescues run on donor goodwill and the efforts of generous volunteers. A reliable source of recurring supplies is invaluable. That is the gap State Line Tack is targeting with its newly launched Ride It Forward program. Built around a network of nearly 75 partner rescues, by buying horse supplies from their website, customers can provide essential support for the organizations rehabilitating and rehoming horses in need. The system works as follows: Each partner rescue receives its own page on the State Line Tack site. When a shopper places an order via that rescue's page, a portion of the proceeds is donated directly to the rescue. Customers can also shop a curated Wishlist on the same page, where each rescue lists the specific items it needs most. At checkout, shoppers see the rescue's shipping address, and donated supplies ship directly to the rescue. Wishlist items typically appear at the same sale prices State Line Tack offers across its catalog. Each product on a rescue's Wishlist shows a running count of how many units the rescue is still requesting, so shoppers can be sure their generous contributions are appreciated and needed. Early partners include: Bonded by Strength Equine Rescue Next Step Horse Rescue Wiregrass Horse Rescue & Sanctuary State Line Tack reports nearly 75 organizations now enrolled, each with a dedicated page on the retailer's site where shoppers can: Read about the rescue's mission Browse the current Wishlist Provide material support Ride It Forward expands the company's existing charitable work, and these initiatives reflect what State Line Tack describes as a commitment to ethical sourcing and giving back to the community.
- May 12, 2026Top Stories
Lower.com Releases New Report Showing Buying a Home Now Beats Renting in Nearly Half of U.S. Cities
Lower.com has released a new housing market analysis showing that in 64 of the 136 U.S. cities studied, buying a home now makes more financial sense than renting when the full cost of ownership is taken into account. The report, released Monday, examined housing markets where home prices fall within Federal Housing Administration loan limits, making them accessible to first-time buyers with down payments as low as 3.5 percent. Rather than comparing gross mortgage payments against rent, Lower factored in the equity homeowners build each month through principal paydown and local home price appreciation, arriving at what it calls the net cost of owning. The approach shifts the calculus significantly in many markets. "Homeownership is one of the most powerful wealth builders in America, and this study shows why," said Dan Snyder, CEO of Lower. "When you factor in the equity homeowners build each month, the case for buying in the right market becomes much clearer." Cleveland Stands Out in the Midwest Among the report's most striking findings is the strength of midwestern markets, where 20 of 28 cities analyzed favor buying over renting. Cleveland ranks first in the region and third nationally, with buyers coming out $1,359 per month ahead of renters on a net-cost basis. The city's estimated monthly mortgage for a median-priced home runs $1,578, but an 8.6 percent annualized appreciation rate, among the highest in the study, generates roughly $1,314 in monthly home equity through appreciation alone. Add in first-month principal paydown of $173, and the net cost of owning in Cleveland falls to just $91 per month against a median three-bedroom rent of $1,450. Those figures draw from Cleveland real estate market trends tracked by Movoto, the real estate search platform that served as the study's primary source for listing prices and city-level appreciation data. Movoto is a Lower company, and its market data formed the backbone of the report's appreciation calculations across all 136 cities. Dayton and Akron post similar profiles, with appreciation rates of 7.0 and 6.2 percent respectively and monthly mortgage payments well under $2,000. Detroit rounds out the Ohio-Michigan corridor at plus $989 per month, driven by 7.7 percent appreciation. The common thread across the region is affordable entry prices paired with appreciation that has meaningfully outpaced the national study average of 1.6 percent annualized from 2023 to 2026. The Equity Factor Changes Everything The core argument of the report is that the standard rent-versus-buy comparison leaves out the most important variable: equity. When a homeowner makes a monthly mortgage payment, a portion goes toward paying down the loan balance directly, money that stays with the homeowner rather than a landlord. In markets where home values are also rising, that effect compounds. The Lower analysis separates these two equity streams — guaranteed principal paydown and market-dependent appreciation — so readers can see what is locked in versus what depends on local conditions. Nationally, the study found 34 of its 136 cities posted negative appreciation between 2023 and 2026, meaning that in those markets, falling home values offset the equity built through principal payments and pushed the net cost of owning higher. The report is explicit that past appreciation is not a guarantee of future performance and cautions buyers against treating any single city's recent growth rate as a projection. Hartford, Connecticut, tops the national rankings at a $3,138-per-month advantage, driven by an 11.1 percent annualized appreciation rate that the report itself describes as an outlier driven by supply constraints. Worcester, Massachusetts, comes in second at plus $1,800 per month with a more moderate 5.8 percent appreciation rate. The Northeast region as a whole had the highest share of buy-favoring markets at 86 percent, though it also had the fewest cities analyzed. FHA Loans at the Center of the Analysis The report's focus on FHA-eligible markets is deliberate. FHA loans, backed by the Federal Housing Administration, allow qualified buyers to put down as little as 3.5 percent and accept lower credit scores than conventional mortgages typically require. Lower's analysis used the 2026 FHA national loan limit of $541,287 as its upper boundary, filtering out higher-priced markets where first-time buyers are less likely to compete. All monthly cost estimates assume a 5 percent down payment and a 6.11 percent 30-year fixed rate, reflecting Freddie Mac's March 12 weekly average. The rent figures used as a comparison benchmark come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Small Area Fair Market Rents for three-bedroom units at the zip code level, representing the 40th percentile of gross rents for standard-quality units. Using zip-level rents rather than broad metro averages gives each city its own localized baseline, which the report argues produces a more honest comparison. Lower notes that its ownership cost estimates do not include maintenance, closing costs, homeowners association fees, or the opportunity cost of the down payment — factors that can add meaningfully to the real cost of owning. The company encourages prospective buyers to use the study as a starting point and consult a loan officer for a personalized estimate. What It Means for First-Time Buyers The study's 47 percent figure — the share of cities where buying beats renting — sits close to the midpoint, a finding Lower describes as more nuanced than national headlines about the housing affordability crisis typically suggest. The National Association of Realtors has reported that first-time buyers made up just 24 percent of home purchases in the 2023 to 2024 period, the lowest share since 1981, as elevated prices and mortgage rates have pushed many prospective owners to the sidelines. Lower's analysis suggests the picture varies enormously depending on where a buyer is looking. In the Midwest and parts of the South, including Montgomery, Alabama, and Newport News, Virginia, the monthly advantage of owning over renting exceeds $1,000 once equity is factored in. In the West, where appreciation between 2023 and 2026 was modest in most markets, only 35 percent of cities favor buying. The report's broader takeaway is that the rent-versus-own decision is fundamentally a local one. "National averages tell you almost nothing about your specific city," the report states. "The gap between the best and worst markets spans thousands of dollars per month." For first-time buyers evaluating options, the study offers a city-by-city breakdown of gross mortgage costs, median rents, appreciation rates, and monthly equity built — a framework that makes the comparison concrete rather than conceptual. The full report and methodology are available at lower.com/insights . About Lower.com Lower.com is a financial technology and mortgage company focused on simplifying the home financing process through digital tools and data-driven insights. The company provides mortgage solutions designed to support homebuyers across a range of markets, including FHA-eligible segments. Lower.com integrates housing data, including Cleveland real estate market trends, into research and analysis to support informed decision-making. The company references market benchmarks such as Freddie Mac's March 12 weekly average and industry data from the National Association of Realtors in its reporting and insights.
- May 12, 2026Top Stories
Fujifilm Announces Financial Results for the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2026
FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation announced today financial results for the full-year of fiscal year ended March 31, 2026. Full-Year Results for the Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2026 Revenue was JPY3,357.0 billion and increased 5.0% year-over-year. Operating income was JPY350.2 billion and increased 6.1% year‑over‑year. Net income attributable to FUJIFILM Holdings was JPY276.7 billion and increased 6.0% year‑over‑year. The annual dividend for FY2025 is expected to be JPY70 per share, marking the 16th consecutive annual increase. Outlook for Fiscal Year Ending March 2027 For the fiscal year ending March 2027, the company projects record high financial performance, with revenue of JPY3.47 trillion, supported by the expanded operation of large-scale Bio CDMO facilities and increased sales of semiconductor materials. Operating income is expected to rise 4.2% year-on-year to JPY365.0 billion, reflecting strong performance in the Electronics and Imaging segments. Net income attributable to FUJIFILM Holdings is forecasted at JPY280.0 billion. This outlook does not incorporate the potential impact of fluctuations in raw material prices and energy costs associated with heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, given the significant uncertainty surrounding future developments. The annual dividend for the fiscal year ending March 2027 is forecasted at JPY75 per share, marking the company’s 17th consecutive annual dividend increase. “We achieved record-high revenue, operating income, and net income, driven by strong performance in the Healthcare segment supported by the operation of new Bio CDMO facilities, solid results in semiconductor materials within the Electronics segment, and steady growth in the Imaging segment, including digital cameras.” said Teiichi Goto, president and chief executive officer, representative director, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation. “In this current fiscal year, our focus is on achieving sustainable growth by expanding our semiconductor materials business and scaling production capacity in the Bio CDMO business. We are committed to accelerating progress toward the goals outlined in VISION2030 and establishing Fujifilm as a collection of global leading businesses.” Fourth-quarter financial highlights from January to March by business segments In the fourth quarter, revenue increased by 6.8% year-over-year to JPY927.3 billion. Operating income was JPY101.8 billion, representing a 4.8% year-over-year decrease. Net income attributable to FUJIFILM Holdings increased by 5.0% year-over-year to JPY83.4 billion. Healthcare Revenue increased by 5.4% year-over-year to JPY333.6 billion, while operating income declined by 34.7% year-over-year to JPY29.7 billion, primarily due to the higher raw material costs due to surging silver prices. In the Medical Systems business, strong sales of endoscopes across major markets, including the United States and Europe, together with concentrated deliveries from large-scale contracts, resulted in an approximate 30% increase in sales, contributing to revenue growth. The Bio CDMO business recorded higher revenue, supported by the operation of new facilities at the Denmark site, while the LS Solutions business also achieved revenue growth as the market for cell culture media continued to recover. Electronics Revenue increased by 27.4% year-over-year to JPY127.5 billion, and operating income rose by 74.0% year-over-year to JPY30.7 billion. In the Electronic Materials business, revenue increased by 29.3% year-over-year, driven by strong demand for advanced semiconductor materials used in generative AI. In the Advanced Functional Materials business, revenue increased by 24.1% year-over-year, supported by strong sales of display materials as well as increased sales of large capacity data tapes for major IT companies. Business Innovation Revenue decreased by 3.5% year-over-year to JPY324.8 billion, and operating income declined by 15.4% year-over-year to JPY27.0 billion. In the Business Solutions business, revenue growth was primarily driven by the expansion of solutions related to digital transformation. In the Office Solutions business, revenue declined due to sluggish market conditions in the Asia-Pacific region and the strategic streamlining of low-margin product offerings. In the Graphic Communications business, revenue remained largely flat, as increased sales of xerographic equipment in new markets were offset by reduced demand for printing plates and related products in Europe amid weak market conditions. Imaging Strong sales of instant photo systems and digital cameras drove revenue up by 22.6% year-over-year to JPY141.4 billion, while operating income increased by 1.1% year-over-year to JPY24.5 billion. In the Consumer Imaging business, steady sales growth of core instax™ models such as the instax mini 12™ and instax mini Evo™, as well as solid sales of products including the instax WIDE 400™, instax Link 3™, and instax WIDE Evo™, contributed to revenue growth by expanding the user base. In the Professional Imaging business, strong performance of models launched during the current fiscal year, including the GFX100RF, X half, X‑E5, and X‑T30 III, together with continued sales of existing models, supported overall revenue growth. For more details, please visit the Investor Relations section of Fujifilm website Earnings Presentations
- May 12, 2026Apps & Software
CHANEL Official Flagship Store Debuts on JD.com with Exclusive Beauty Launches for Gifting Season
As demand for premium beauty and luxury gifting continues to grow in China, JD.com is further expanding its portfolio of global prestige beauty partners through a new partnership with CHANEL. On May 11, the official CHANEL Fragrance & Beauty flagship store officially launched on JD.com, bringing consumers access to the brand’s iconic fragrance, makeup and skincare collections through a trusted and premium online shopping experience. The opening comes during China’s peak gifting season surrounding Mother’s Day and May 20th Internet Valentine’s Day in China. To mark the launch, CHANEL is introducing several JD.com-exclusive beauty offerings, including the LES BEIGES HEALTHY GLOW SUMMER ESSENTIALS and the HYDRA BEAUTY Micro Sérum Lèvres, providing consumers with elevated gifting choices and limited-edition luxury experiences. The partnership also highlights JD.com’s growing momentum in the imported high-end beauty category. Since 2025, JD Beauty has continued to deliver industry-leading growth rate in premium international beauty, supported by JD.com’s longstanding strengths in authentic product assurance, fast delivery and customer service excellence. Increasingly, international luxury beauty brands are choosing JD.com as a strategic platform for reaching Chinese consumers online. Looking ahead, JD.com and CHANEL will further expand collaboration by bringing more new launches, exclusive collections and limited-edition products to its 700 million+ consumers in China, while continuing to elevate the online luxury beauty experience through trusted service and refined customer engagement.
- May 12, 2026Top Stories
Delta Thailand Included in Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices 2026 for the Fifth Consecutive Year
Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a global leader in power management and smart green solutions has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices (DJ BIC, formerly DJSI) for the fifth consecutive year since 2021. The recognition follows Delta Thailand’s continued progress in sustainability, including its net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target across the value chain by 2050, approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as part of Delta Electronics, Inc.’s subsidiaries, and its RE100 commitment to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030. Both initiatives remain on track as planned. As of 2025, Delta Thailand and its subsidiaries have collectively achieved 69% renewable electricity. Delta Thailand is also the only Thai company in the “ITC Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components” industry segment included in the indices. Delta Thailand is listed in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index, a global benchmark for sustainability performance, reflecting its high performance in S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA), which identifies leading companies based on long-term economic, environmental, and social criteria. "Delta Thailand’s inclusion in the DJ BIC for the fifth consecutive year demonstrates the impact of our sustainability initiatives and our commitment to continuous improvement. Through the assessment, we gain valuable insights to strengthen our performance against global benchmarks. Delta Thailand’s performance would not be possible without the commitment of our employees," said Victor Cheng, Chief Executive Officer, Delta Thailand. Advancing Decarbonization and Clean Energy Transition In 2026, Delta Thailand was also recognized in the Clean200™ for the second consecutive year. The Clean200™ is a global ranking that evaluates more than 8,000 companies and identifies 200 publicly traded firms generating substantial revenue from sustainable solutions. Additionally, Delta is committed to a net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target across the value chain by 2050, approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), using 2021 as the base year. The company aims to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 90% by 2030 and Scope 3 emissions by 25%, with a long-term target of a 90% reduction across all scopes by 2050. These commitments represent a structured approach to decarbonization and support the transition to a low-carbon future. Furthermore, Delta has committed to RE100, targeting 100% renewable electricity by 2030, supported by an innovative internal carbon pricing mechanism. About the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices The Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices are a family of float-adjusted market capitalization weighted indices that track equity markets while applying a sustainability best-in-class selection process. Each year, more than 12,000 companies are invited to participate in the CSA. Approximately 3,500 of the largest companies globally are assessed and considered for inclusion in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices. Delta Thailand’s inclusion in the DJ BIC, based on the CSA, reflects its strong ESG performance and continued progress in addressing environmental risks, improving resource efficiency, and advancing toward net-zero operations. The company’s continued recognition reinforces Delta Thailand’s position as a sustainability leader in the industry. Delta Thailand remains committed to sustainable development, long-term value creation for stakeholders, and contributing to a more resilient and energy-efficient future.
- May 12, 2026Travel & Leisure
Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum Ushers in a New Era with Legendary Tennis Coach Patrick Mouratoglou
Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum is proud to have hosted one of the most anticipated openings of the season, unveiling the Mouratoglou Tennis Center at the resort. The inauguration was attended by Patrick Mouratoglou, founder of the globally renowned Mouratoglou brand and one of the most influential figures in professional tennis. Following an elegant opening ceremony, a full programme of high-energy tennis and padel matches created a vibrant atmosphere. Turkish tennis icon İpek Soylu was among the distinguished guests, with prominent figures such as Zeynep Tuğçe Bayat, Anıl Altan, Ece Sükán and Cansel Elçin, all coming together to share in the excitement of this event. And as the sun set over the Aegean Sea, the celebrations culminated in an exclusive gala dinner. A defining partnership in Türkiye The Mouratoglou Tennis Center selected Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum to be its sole and long-term location in Türkiye. Its philosophy is world-renowned for shaping champions such as Serena Williams and Stefanos Tsitsipas. And now this exclusive collaboration brings Mouratoglou's visionary methods to Bodrum and places elite professional tennis at the heart of the resort's experience. As Patrick Mouratoglou explains: “Bodrum holds a very important place on the global luxury tourism stage, and Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum stands out as a rare and exceptional resort with its vision and long-term investment. Collaborating with such a strong brand in such an extraordinary location is incredibly meaningful.” Nestled within the spectacular scenery of the Aegean, Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum has three tennis courts and three padel courts. Guests at this luxury retreat can now explore their potential through a wider range of activities, where the energy of sport meets Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group's signature service philosophy, catering to players of all levels. A lifestyle destination Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum 's shopping promenade is one of the Riviera's most distinguished luxury selections, hosting iconic maisons such as Audemars Piguet, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Brunello Cucinelli, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chanel, Chopard and Zimmermann. Complemented by nearly 40 international and leading Turkish designer brands including Adamo, Alo Yoga, Bee Goddess, Beymen, Bluemint, Elie Saab, Golden Goose, Vakko, Vilebrequin and %100 Capri, the resort has firmly positioned Bodrum at the heart of global luxury retail. A culinary journey Guests at Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum are invited to experience an exceptional culinary landscape, where the gastronomy of each destination tells a unique story. Gigi Bodrum returns this season with its iconic Alla Grande lifestyle, now in its private beach setting. Maison Revka brings an enchanting blend of French elegance and Slavic heritage to Türkiye for the first time. GAIA , inspired by Greek culinary traditions, expands its Mediterranean journey to Bodrum. Celebrated global names Roka and Hakkasan deliver outstanding Far Eastern and Cantonese cuisine. The good life Set within the captivating natural landscape of Paradise Bay, these developments reflect Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum's vision of sport, fashion and gastronomy, and invite guests to enjoy a refined art de vivre – which is special in every detail. Volkan Öztürkler, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum, concludes: “Our position as one of the Mediterranean's most distinguished resorts has been recognized with more than 250 prestigious global awards, including Forbes, Michelin Key and Condé Nast. At the core of this success lie our timeless approach to the highest standards, exceptional hosting philosophy and visionary collaborations that shape the future.” Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum Located on a 60-hectare waterfront site on the northern side of the Turkish peninsula at Paradise Bay, offering panoramic views over the Aegean Sea. The resort's 122 Rooms, Apartments, Suites and Villas provide the largest accommodation in the area, all with terraces or balconies, and many with private gardens and infinity-edged pools. Twelve restaurants and bars showcase innovative and gastronomic cuisine, while the 2.700 sq m Spa introduces the Group's awarding-winning spa concepts. In addition, the resort offers diverse event spaces, a private sandy beach, extensive leisure facilities, and a selection of high-end global brand boutiques, making it the ultimate luxurious hideaway for discerning travelers seeking sophistication and elegance. Media Gallery
- May 12, 2026Finance & Loan
UAE-Founded Sarwa Crosses the $1B Client Assets Mark — a Historic First for Homegrown Fintech
Sarwa, one of the GCC’s leading investment and personal finance platforms, recently crossed $1 billion in client assets under management, making it the first GCC-made fintech to achieve this milestone. The achievement, reached amid the broader region’s geopolitical uncertainty, signals a resilience for the UAE's financial infrastructure. Sarwa’s $1 billion mark underscores the ways retail investors in the UAE are actively shaping the next phase of growth in the region. Co-founder and Group CEO, Mark Chahwan, attributes the growth milestone to changing investor behaviour and compounding momentum. "Back when we started, people said retail investing wouldn't work in MENA, that the environment was different from the west. Hitting and then crossing $1 billion proves that retail investors were just underserved, and this community has become remarkably strong," Chahwan said. Co-founder and CTO Jad Sayegh, who built the platform's technical infrastructure, views the milestone as validation of their thesis. "This achievement belongs to our clients. It's their money, their portfolios, their growth. The speed at which we’ve reached this point shows how quickly momentum builds once people start investing," Sayegh said. Licensed and regulated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the achievement highlights the role the ADGM plays in fostering innovation and enabling retail-focused financial platforms to grow. Amongst its other achievements, Sarwa has received recognition from Forbes Middle East, appearing on the magazine's cover in 2023 and ranking in its Top 20 Fintechs list in 2025. The GCC fintech sector continues to expand at pace, projected to grow at a 15% compound annual growth rate through 2030. With only 6% of UAE residents invested in stocks, bonds, and funds - a number significantly below developed countries like the US - the UAE is witnessing the early days of its projected growth. As the UAE establishes itself as a leading global hub for innovation, the changing fintech sector has enabled startups like Sarwa to scale into regional players. Chahwan and Sayegh, both 33, along with co-founder and previous CMO, Nadine Mezher, raised $25 million across funding rounds, prior to Sarwa reaching profitability in 2024. Among their key investors are Mubadala Investment Company, 500 Startups, Kuwait Projects Company (KIPCO), Shorooq Partners, and Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP). Sarwa differentiates itself through its intuitive interface and its educational resources that address financial literacy gaps. The platform plans to build on this momentum by continuing to expand its offerings and deepen access to investing for individuals across the region. Disclaimer: $1 billion refers to the fair value of all client holdings, including equities, options, cryptocurrencies, and cash across Sarwa Invest, Sarwa Trade, Sarwa Crypto, and Sarwa Save. The value of holdings varies over time based on net deposits and market performance. About Sarwa Sarwa is a leading investing and money management platform on a mission to help everyone put their money to work. The one-stop app offers hands-off auto-investing with Sarwa Invest, DIY trading of stocks, ETFs, and crypto with Sarwa Trade, as well as high estimated returns with Sarwa Save. Sarwa Digital Wealth (Capital) Limited is regulated by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) as a Category 3C entity. All Promotional materials are provided from/by Sarwa Digital Wealth (Capital) Limited and are intended only for jurisdictions where it is authorised to provide services and do not constitute an offer or solicitation to provide services in any jurisdiction where it is not permitted to do so. Sarwa is not a bank. Options trading entails significant risk and is not appropriate for all customers and may involve the potential of losing the entire investment in a relatively short period of time. We can unlock high-yield accounts through our banking partners. Sarwa does not hold an Islamic Window endorsement from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). Clients are advised to conduct their own due diligence to ensure that investments align with their personal requirements. Please visit our Disclaimer Notice page for further information.
- May 12, 2026Automotive
Advancing on Three Fronts—Technology, Product, and Ecosystem—OMODA & JAECOO Set Sights on Annual Million
During the Chery International Business Summit held in April 2026, OMODA & JAECOO announced that global cumulative sales had surpassed one million units in just three years. Simultaneously, the brand unveiled its 2027 strategy, setting the goal to move “From Million To Annual Million.” To achieve this, OMODA & JAECOO outlined clear implementation pathways across three areas: core technology, user co-creation, and ecosystem scenarios. Technology: Addressing Global Mobility Pain Points with Hybrid and Intelligent Driving Confidence in reaching annual million comes from technological solutions built around real-world needs and pain points. On the powertrain front, the Super Hybrid System developed by OMODA & JAECOO achieved fuel consumption of just 3.4L/100 km in recent real-world testing by media from nine countries. This directly addresses high fuel price and the growing demand for energy efficiency, while also meeting stricter environmental regulations and reducing user anxiety over running costs. The system has become a key enabler for the brand in the global hybrid market. Moving forward, HEV models including OMODA5 SHS-H, OMODA7 SHS-H, and JAECOO7 SHS-H will be launched in global markets, bringing Super High Power and Super Efficiency to more users. On the intelligent driving front, SIVP (Super Intelligent Valet Parking) has completed global public real-world testing. In extreme parking scenarios—such as narrow streets, ultra-tight spaces, and dead-end roads—this technology enables fully autonomous operation - precisely addressing frequent parking challenges and significantly enhancing daily convenience and the product’s competitiveness. Products: Building the Cars Young Users Truly Want Through Co-Creation Ultimately, technology speaks through products. OMODA & JAECOO remain committed to a user-driven co-creation model, allowing young users worldwide to participate in core R&D processes—from naming to feature development. The effectiveness of this model has been proven. With global cumulative sales exceeding 400,000 units, OMODA 5 has secured its position as a global best-seller in the A0-segment SUV, validating the strategy of winning user tribes through product resonance. Building on this logic, OMODA 4 underwent multiple rounds of user co-creation. From its Cyber-Mecha aesthetic design to the AI Cabin and esports-inspired features, everything was co-defined by young users to ensure the product truly fits the aesthetic and usage preferences of its target audience. OMODA 4 has officially rolled off the production line and will be launched in phases this year, providing a stronger product foundation for the “From Million To Annual Million” goal. Ecosystem: From Product Provider to Lifestyle Co-Creator Beyond technology and products, OMODA & JAECOO are further expanding their ecosystem scenarios, evolving from “product providers” to “lifestyle co-creators.” The Ecosystem Pavilion, built around the “Ecosystem Tree” concept, features scenarios including outdoor living, pet travel, and esports entertainment, covering technology, culture, and lifestyle. The debut of the AiMOGA robot further expands the intelligent boundaries of the brand’s ecosystem. On the cultural front, OMODA & JAECOO launched the “Auto Grommy”—the OMODA Global Music Festival, spanning 18 countries and featuring 18 artists. This cutting-edge audiovisual event deeply integrates automotive culture with global youth culture. At the same time, the brand continues its partnership with VALORANT to connect with the esports community and build stronger resonance with young users through more targeted engagement. Together, these three pillars—technology, products, and ecosystem—are driving OMODA & JAECOO as they accelerate “From Million To Annual Million.” In summary, OMODA & JAECOO have clearly outlined their methodology for achieving annual million: addressing real pain points through hybrid technology and intelligent driving, defining precise products through co-creation mechanisms, and building deep user connections via a comprehensive ecosystem. With these three elements working in synergy, the brand is accelerating its progress from cumulative sales of one million to annual sales of one million. *SIVP(Super Intelligent Valet Parking) is an assisted driving feature and does not replace the driver. Stay alert and be ready to take over at any time. About OMODA & JAECOO In 2025, Chery Group, the parent company of OMODA & JAECOO, ranked 233rd in the Fortune Global 500, achieving the fastest ascent among global automakers, and maintained its position as China's top passenger vehicle exporter for 23 consecutive years.OMODA & JAECOO takes "Co-Create A Beautiful Life With Young People" as its brand vision, while OMODA focuses on building“The World's Leading Crossover Brand”, JAECOO adheres to the philosophy of "From Classic Beyond Classic" and is committed to building“Global Elegant Off-Road Brand”, and building differentiated competitiveness through dual routes. By 2025, the OMODA & JAECOO brand has expanded into 69 markets worldwide, covering Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and more，demonstrating strong global growth momentum，especially in the European market, becoming the fastest growing car brand in Europe and even the world. In the field of new energy vehicles,OMODA & JAECOO relies on the world's leading SHS technology, with Super High Power，Super Low Efficiency，Super Long Combined Range，while providing efficient new energy solutions for global users, but also steadily advancing towards the objective of becoming the "The World's Number One Hybrid Brand". Notably, beyond its continuous breakthroughs in the core automotive sector, OMODA & JAECOO has extended its technological innovation into the field of intelligent technologies. The robot, jointly developed with the AiMOGA team, has entered real public service scenarios and made its official debut at the Asian Youth Para Games，representing a landmark practice in automakers’ intelligent transformation and further expanding the brand’s value boundaries.
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