January 2026 – Page 16 – PR in the Philippines

January 16, 2026 by: jenn

First Look Revealed for Amazon’s Upcoming Lara Croft Reboot

Alex Bailey/Paramount/Kobal/ShutterstockFollowing Phoebe Waller-Bridge's breakthrough success with Fleabag in 2019, she quickly secured an agreement with Amazon Studios. In the seven years since, however, that deal has yielded little output. She had a short-lived involvement in the streamer's reboot before departing over creative disagreements. One project, however, remained a constant prospect: a series featuring Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner as Lara Croft. Now, we have our first glimpse of the lead actress.An Amazon press release states the image below signifies the start of production for the series, which also features Sigourney Weaver, Jason Isaacs, and Martin Bobb-Semple. Although a release date is still unknown, the series has at last emerged from development hell and is expected to premiere in the coming years.Sophie Turner stars as Lara Croft in the latest Tomb Raider reboot. | Prime VideoWhile the photo reveals little, fans of the original games will observe that Turner is dressed in the archaeologist's iconic attire, complete with her signature thigh holsters and the turquoise tank top she wore in the first five games. Perhaps this suggests the series will draw inspiration from the franchise's more pulpy origins instead of the darker reboot games, but this is merely speculation.The Lara Croft character has been adapted for film multiple times, and more recently was revitalized with an animated series. However, the franchise has never ventured into live-action television, and Waller-Bridge could be the ideal person to succeed. She has demonstrated her capability in the adventure genre, having contributed to the script for the most recent James Bond film and appearing in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. It remains to be seen what she will achieve with full creative authority.

January 16, 2026 by: eqs

AIMS Enters Official Partnership with Italian Lamborghini Brand and its winery

EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 16/01/2026 / 09:17 UTC+8 Kuala Lumpur– AIMS is pleased to announce an official partnership with the Lamborghini Brand and its winery. This collaboration represents not only a powerful alliance between two leading brands from distinct fields, but also a dedicated effort to transcend traditional industry boundaries, creating an unprecedented platform of excellence for traders and brand enthusiasts across the Asia-Pacific region and globally. Lamborghini is not only an icon of ultimate automotive craftsmanship but has also extended its pursuit of luxury and quality into the world of wine. The spirit of resilience, excellence, and breakthrough embodied by its founder, Mr. Ferruccio Lamborghini, has been ingrained in the winery since its establishment in 1968. Faithfully continue Lamborghini's relentless pursuit of perfection and channeling the fighting spirit symbolized by the iconic Taurus emblem. "We are truly honored to enter into this partnership," mentioned by Aaron Chang, CEO of AIMS. "This goes far beyond a commercial linkage; it is a profound alignment of brand philosophies. AIMS is committed to providing users with exceptional and efficient service experience, empowering them to continually push boundaries and pursue the 'extraordinary' in their trading journey. This resonates perfectly with the Lamborghini founder's ethos of constantly challenging limits and pursuing perfection. We look forward to working together to open new doors for our clients, leading them toward greater achievements and unique experiences." "This partnership sets a new benchmark where elite trading services converge with legendary Italian luxury," said Mr. Stanley Ng, Principal Consultant & Advisor for the Lamborghini Brand and Winery in Southeast Asia. "We are confident that AIMS distinguished market presence and influence will further elevate the brand experience for connoisseurs throughout the region." This partnership marks a strategic step in AIMS’s global expansion, further solidifying its leadership in integrating high-end lifestyle offerings with advanced trading platforms. Moving forward, both parties will jointly explore greater cross-sector value, providing high-end clients with a new dimension of experience that combines luxurious taste with excellent performance. About AIMS AIMS is a brand with an 11-year industry heritage and a trusted financial broker for institutional and individual traders worldwide. With a global presence spanning more than 21 countries and regions, the broker is renowned for its high-performance trading platforms, highly competitive spreads, and client-centric service philosophy, continuously driving development and innovation in the global trading industry. For more information about Aims, please visit www.aimsfx.com or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok. Media Contact: Benson Low, AIMS Email: media@aimsfx.com Website: www.aimsfx.com 16/01/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com

January 16, 2026 by: jenn

Don’t Let This Year’s Timeliest True-Crime Thriller Slip By You

Row KTony Kiritsis (Bill Skarsgård) sits in his worn, beat-up car outside a gloomy block of office buildings—arm in a sling, face glistening with sweat that feels out of place on a cold February day. He turns the key, and it snaps in the ignition. Swearing, he stumbles out of the car and heads toward the building across the street, his good arm hauling a bulky cardboard box. It’s downtown Indianapolis in 1977’s deep winter, and Tony Kiritsis is about to spark a media frenzy that will captivate the nation.It’s an understated start for a relatively small film—an unexpected comeback for Gus Van Sant, the director behind classics like My Own Private Idaho and . But Dead Man’s Wire, inspired by the true story of a three-day hostage standoff, is a tight, quirky crime thriller that grabs attention the moment Tony yanks a shotgun from his box and takes his mortgage broker Richard Hall (Dacre Montgomery) hostage. It’s a thrilling return for Van Sant, who hadn’t scored a major critical hit since 2008’s Milk; his last film, Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot, came out eight years ago. Though Dead Man’s Wire’s quiet January release might seem fated to be as overlooked as Van Sant’s recent works, its surprisingly timely story and crowd-pleasing moments make it a film that deserves better than being buried.When I saw Dead Man’s Wire at the 2025 Venice Film Festival in September, it may have gotten the most raucous reaction of any film I saw there—more than Frankenstein, After the Hunt, or Bugonia (on par with the response to Park Chan-wook’s No Other Choice). People gasped, clapped, and cheered—clear signs of a major festival hit. But it took a week for Row K Entertainment to acquire the film, and another month to set a release date. Then came the dreaded January drop, the long-feared “graveyard” for movies.But Dead Man’s Wire is more than its release date. A lighthearted riff, the film brims with style (mostly from Colman Domingo’s smooth-voiced radio DJ, an unexpected player in the hostage crisis) and energy. Its 1970s-set story has more than a few parallels to modern concerns. Tony Kiritsis feels wronged and trapped after a bad mortgage broker deal robbed him of (what he believes is) millions of dollars. Now he’s standing up for the little guy—the people forgotten and stepped on by millionaires who couldn’t care less about them.Played with wide-eyed intensity by Skarsgård, who seamlessly shifts between sympathetic hero and unhinged antagonist, Tony’s rants seem absurd at first.As we spend more time with Tony, his arguments start to make sense—especially through the 2026 lens, where economic uncertainty seeps into every part of life. He even has the police’s sympathy, mostly because the lead detective (an unrecognizable Cary Elwes) is an old family friend. But the media circus surrounding Tony (which he delights in) mostly gawks at him, turning the entire nation into voyeurs.Colman Domingo is another standout in the film, as the cool and collected radio DJ Fred Temple. | Row KVan Sant doesn’t focus much on the media—except for ambitious reporter Linda Page—handling that storyline with gentle satire (one scene shows a clueless reporter simply describing his feelings live on TV). Instead, the film plays mostly as a two-hander between Skarsgård’s Tony and Montgomery’s Richard (who wasn’t his first hostage choice; Tony planned to kidnap Richard’s father, M.L. Hall, played by a laid-back Al Pacino). As Richard spends hours tied to Tony’s shotgun with a “dead man’s wire” (any movement triggers the gun), the two form a strangely intimate bond. Both Skarsgård and Montgomery deliver deeply sympathetic, magnetic performances—half the joy of watching Dead Man’s Wire is their verbal sparring.Dead Man’s Wire is one of those stranger-than-fiction tales that, in an even weirder twist, feels more relevant today. Despite its semi-satirical edge and crowd-pleasing energy, it’s an important watch. Don’t let it pass you by.Dead Man’s Wire opens in theaters January 16.

January 16, 2026 by: nicole

Ex-Ukrainian PM Allegedly Used US Cash to Bribe Lawmakers and Undermine Zelenskyy Administration

A former Ukrainian prime minister has been alleged to be involved in a plot using piles of U.S. currency intended to undermine the administration of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, according to statements from a former political advisor.Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) first confirmed on January 13 that it had discovered an alleged attempt by the head of an unspecified parliamentary faction to provide unlawful advantages to legislators, as reported.Footage released by NABU displayed bundles of U.S. dollars confiscated during overnight raids conducted earlier in the week, which included video of a woman seated at a desk in an office. The authorities have not named the suspect publicly.According to published recordings, three lawmakers were allegedly offered monthly payments of $10,000 in return for their votes. Some have connected the case to Yulia Tymoshenko, a seasoned politician, former prime minister, and present head of the Batkivshchyna party.Iuliia Mendel, a former press secretary for Zelenskyy, informed Digital that the money supposedly belonged to Tymoshenko and was meant to compensate lawmakers for voting against the president's legislative initiatives."In Ukraine, these kinds of dealings are typically negotiated in U.S. dollars, as evident from law enforcement documents," stated Mendel, a former political advisor."The U.S. currency seen in that video was allegedly hers, intended for paying individuals to oppose Zelenskyy's legislative proposals. She claimed it was from her personal savings," Mendel continued.Mendel noted that the amount visible in the video seemed comparatively small, "around $40,000," adding that other Ukrainian corruption scandals have involved "far greater amounts, sometimes reaching millions of dollars."The search of Tymoshenko's party office is said to have continued for almost the entire night."Officers came in the evening and stayed in her office for nearly the whole night," Mendel said.Several legislators—reportedly including some from Zelenskyy's own faction—are said to have contacted Tymoshenko, initiating talks about consistent monthly remuneration for synchronized voting.Although she has reportedly been issued a notice of suspicion, Tymoshenko spoke in parliament this week, denouncing the case as "political persecution against me.""The so-called 'urgent investigative actions' that went on all night concluded at the Batkivshchyna party office. These 'urgent investigative actions' are unrelated to law and order," Tymoshenko also posted on Facebook.Mendel explained that the objective was not a personal assault on Zelenskyy but to splinter the ruling majority."Ukraine's system is a parliamentary-presidential republic, where the legislature holds a pivotal role in governing. When the president commands a mono-majority, laws can be enacted rapidly," Mendel stated."Shattering that majority would substantially weaken the government's effectiveness."Tymoshenko, a key player in the 2004 Orange Revolution and Ukraine's inaugural female prime minister, has encountered legal issues previously.She was imprisoned in 2011 concerning a gas agreement with Russia, a case widely considered politically driven, and was freed in 2014. She is anticipated to face proceedings at Ukraine's High Anti-Corruption Court."Corruption is a primary factor in why we are losing this war. It critically harms Ukraine's international reputation," Mendel cautioned."By 2024, corruption had grown to such an extent that Ukrainians opted for a highly risky and difficult course—publicly exposing it to combat it," Mendel further remarked."Now, incidents such as this one return the problem to public attention. Corruption will ruin Ukraine."Digital has contacted Zelenskyy's office seeking a statement.

January 15, 2026 by: nicole

United States dispatching military assets to Middle East as Trump considers Iran strike, sources report

Military sources have confirmed that at least one U.S. aircraft carrier is being redeployed toward the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran.It remains unclear if the carrier in question is the USS Abraham Lincoln (currently operating in the South China Sea) or one of two carriers that left Norfolk and San Diego earlier this week. The journey to the region is estimated to take a minimum of one week.Sources stated that U.S. military assets across air, land, and sea are set to arrive in the region over the next days and weeks. This will give the president a range of military options if he chooses to launch strikes against Iran.Officials have characterized these movements as part of a process of "setting the force."A highly placed source noted that if the president opts for military action, "This will be different, more offensive." The source added that U.S. military planners are developing a variety of options, which will hinge on Iran’s regime’s actions in the coming days.U.S. officials have confirmed to that approximately 30,000 U.S. troops are currently assigned to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) region. At present, no U.S. aircraft carriers or carrier strike groups are operating within CENTCOM’s area of responsibility.The current U.S. naval presence in the region consists of three destroyers and three Littoral Combat Ships. Officials noted that three U.S. aircraft carriers are currently deployed elsewhere: the USS George Washington in Yokosuka, Japan; the USS Abraham Lincoln in the INDOPACOM area; and the USS Gerald R. Ford in the SOUTHCOM area.Two additional carriers near Norfolk and San Diego are not actively deployed.Sources also indicated that missile defense systems are expected to be sent to the region to bolster the defense of U.S. bases and Israel. These systems will include missile defense assets.The Pentagon did not immediately respond to Digital's request for comment.

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

One of the Best Stealth Series Ever Finally Becomes Free to Claim on Epic

Cyanide StudioIn February, one of the is set to release its next installment, but you can catch up on it for free before that arrives. From January 15 to 22, Styx: Master of Shadows and Shards of Darkness are available to claim at no cost on the Epic Games Store, ahead of the trilogy’s third entry, Blades of Greed, launching on February 19.These days, are quick to provide an exit strategy. If detected during your stealthy maneuvers, there’s usually an easy escape—whether an ability to dart back to the shadows or the fact that stealth protagonists often have combat skills as sharp as their sneaking prowess. The Styx games take a more hardcore approach, demanding you by making their goblin anti-hero, Styx, extremely vulnerable once spotted.Here, being a small goblin in a world of tall elves and humans has its perks. Styx is highly agile from the start, able to scramble up ledges and between cover swiftly enough to sneak past the guards he’s evading. In the first game, Master of Shadows, clinging to ledges can be slightly glitchy, though rarely enough to ruin the experience. Levels are designed to maximize this mobility, offering multiple paths to sneak around patrolling guards and reach objectives.Rather than following the path of unlocking offensive abilities, the Styx games are packed with tools more akin to that let you manipulate your surroundings. Extinguishing torches from afar and luring guards with noise—staples of the stealth genre—work exceptionally well here.The Styx series truly stands out for its magical abilities. Sticking to its stealth focus, you can’t typically defeat foes with magic; instead, these abilities make you harder to catch. A brief invisibility spell can get you out of tight spots, but more fun options include summoning a clone to distract guards and solve puzzles. The second game, Shards of Darkness, adds poison and mechanical traps to eliminate enemies, though these direct methods feel like supplements to stealth, not replacements. In direct combat, Styx relies on timed parries to unbalance guards before finishing them, a clunky, unreliable tactic best used only as a last resort.The Styx games are stealth titles with an old-school vibe that forces you to stay in the shadows. | Cyanide StudioReleased in 2014 and 2017, Master of Shadows and Shards of Darkness show their age in some areas. Beyond occasionally clunky controls, they reuse levels, and enemy detection ranges can be misleading. Their biggest flaw, though, is Styx himself. As goblins are often depicted, he’s a grumpy, unlikable character who steals gold and stabs guards without hesitation. This characterization mostly works, making him a charmingly cantankerous presence, but it falters in humor. The games are filled with dated references and fourth-wall-breaking quips that rarely land—annoying but not enough to ruin the mood entirely.If you enjoy the first two Styx games, a demo for the upcoming Blades of Greed is now available on Steam. Nearly a decade after the last entry, it promises smoother polish—and hopefully a less irritating sense of humor.Styx: Master of Shadows and Shards of Darkness are available now on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. They’re free to claim on the Epic Games Store until January 22.

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

Five Years On, Marvel’s Premier TV Show Permanently Transformed the MCU

Marvel StudiosFollowing the 2026 Golden Globes, Hamnet director Chloe Zhao was asked about the core message she intended for viewers to take from her work. “What is grief, but love persevering?,” she stated, with the cast nodding in agreement. This profound maxim, though seemingly Shakespearean, actually originated from the Marvel Cinematic Universe — a fact Zhao would know, as she herself directed an MCU film. The source of this quote, Jac Schaeffer’s show WandaVision, was the first MCU TV series to debut on Disney+, setting a high standard for the franchise. Its influence led to a movie, two spin-off series, and numerous comparisons to other shows. WandaVision was able to incoporate many meta references thanks to the Hex Wanda put on Westview. | Marvel StudiosWandaVision features a straightforward premise: confronted with the loss of her beloved Vision (Paul Bettany), Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) instead retreats into denial, using magic to craft a nostalgic, black-and-white world where she can live an idyllic suburban life with Vision, free from worry. Meanwhile, FBI Agent Jimmy Woo (Randall Park), Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings), and Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) investigate an unusual anomaly in New Jersey. WandaVision begins as a classic black-and-white sitcom, reminiscent of I Love Lucy. However, episode by episode, the show's format updates, parodying the 1970s' Brady Bunch, the 1990s' Full House, and eventually modern sitcoms like Modern Family, complete with talking head interviews. In this television-induced dream, Wanda and Vision marry, start a family with their twin boys, Billy and Tommy, and experience various antics with their neighbor. But, as many realized in 2021, their neighbor Agatha (Kathryn Hahn) was the antagonist all along. By the time WandaVision reaches its ninth and final episode, it transforms into typical Marvel fare, yet the preceding eight episodes were unparalleled. The deep affection for television history was evident, alongside numerous Marvel Easter eggs, including Evan Peters' appearance as a "recast" Pietro (who was later revealed to be a random individual named Ralph Bohner). Moreover, the term “Scarlet Witch” was finally uttered in the MCU. This period also marked the peak of fan theories, and while some did not materialize (certain reveals would have to wait until Ironheart), it was an exciting time for Marvel fans. WandaVision brought back Evan Peters as Pietro Maximoff — sorta. | Marvel StudiosWandaVision’s impact on the MCU was immediate. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’ primary weakness was arguably its heavy reliance on WandaVision’s plot, and Agatha All Along quickly cemented Kathryn Hahn's status as a character actress for the ages. Now, five years later, Paul Bettany will return as the newly resurrected White Vision in the upcoming series Vision Quest. It represented a perfect fusion of content and medium, demonstrating that superhero television didn't have to be merely a film fragmented into parts, while simultaneously honoring its predecessors. Everything that followed has existed in its shadow, either through direct comparison or canonical connection. After all, what is a spin-off but a successful show continuing? WandaVision is currently available for streaming on Disney+.

January 15, 2026 by: nicole

Turkey says Syria could use force against US-backed fighters who helped defeat ISIS

Tensions have heightened between Syria's interim government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) this week, amid indications that Damascus might employ military action against the group, after several days of fatal confrontations in and around Aleppo. The SDF was instrumental in supporting U.S. troops to overcome the Islamic State in Syria.Turkey's foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, stated on Thursday that military action by Syria against the SDF appears to be a possibility, while expressing hope that the dispute could be settled through talks.The comments followed multiple days of fighting between Syrian forces and Kurdish combatants, which forced tens of thousands of civilians to flee and resulted in at least 23 fatalities, according to Reuters.The warning highlights increasing regional strain as talks to incorporate the SDF into Syria's national military have hit an impasse, nearly one year after the signing of a U.S.-supported framework accord.Washington continues to be heavily engaged in efforts to stop the conflict from escalating, with U.S. Central Command facilitating mediation daily on Syrian soil together with allies including France, the U.K., Turkey and Jordan. "CENTCOM is on the ground inside Syria playing an active mediating role every single day," stated Charles Lister, senior fellow and director of the Syria Initiative at the Middle East Institute."Essentially, the United States continues to be the SDF's largest and most crucial supporter, benefactor, source of funding, training and, to some degree, protection," he noted.Lister indicated that Washington has already exerted considerable influence, including pressuring SDF commander Mazloum Abdi to sign the March 2025 framework agreement."We wouldn't have seen the March framework agreement if Gen. Mazloum hadn't essentially been forced onto a helicopter, transported to Damascus, and instructed that he must sign that pact," he remarked.In a Wednesday statement, the SDF charged Syrian government troops and Turkey with engaging in what it termed a "dangerous military escalation" throughout various locations, including Deir Hafer, Maskanah and the vicinity of the Tishreen Dam.The SDF alleged that Syrian government forces conducted assaults employing artillery, mortars and suicide drones, and stated that civilian facilities, such as a post office and bakery, were hit.The SDF also reported that Turkish Bayraktar drones attacked several SDF sites near Maskanah and Tabqah. Neither Turkey nor the Syrian government had issued public responses to these allegations.The conflict originates from a collapsed March 2025 pact designed to integrate SDF units into Syria's Ministry of Defense."There's no doubt that Damascus has been a difficult negotiator," Lister commented. "That being said, the government has also made substantial concessions."Lister maintains that the agreement has stalled due to internal splits within the SDF. "The reason no agreement has been put into effect is quite simply that the SDF is not a unified, coherent organization," he explained. "There are factions within the SDF who definitely don't want this deal to be executed."He stated that some groups are intentionally postponing implementation. "Their obvious calculation is that the longer they can delay, they anticipate the Syrian transitional government will take action that undermines its international standing," Lister observed. "It's simply a tactic of delaying and waiting to see what happens.""That strategy is inherently risky," he warned. "It merely ensures confrontation.""During the last two or three days, there have been several assaults on SDF military installations in this frontline region of eastern rural Aleppo," Lister reported."Turkey is ready to re-engage," he noted. "Whenever Turkey has fully committed against the SDF, the SDF hasn't had any chance of success."In Lister's view, only top-level pressure could shift the current path."The sole factor that will transform this situation is if President Trump publicly declares that this agreement must be concluded and executed swiftly," he asserted."This situation is not under control," Lister cautioned. "All the evident preparations are being made to turn this into an active combat zone, unless urgent diplomatic efforts draw both parties back from the edge."Reuters contributed to this article.

January 15, 2026 by: nicole

European troops sent to Greenland for rapid 2-day mission as Trump considers US takeover

Military personnel from multiple European nations have arrived in Greenland on Thursday for a brief two-day operation to enhance the region's defensive capabilities.According to reports, France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway are taking part in the military exercise. Officials state that the operation aims to show their ability to rapidly deploy military resources.This move occurs while the Trump administration is seeking to take control of the Danish territory. Germany has dispatched a 13-member reconnaissance unit, France has contributed 15 mountain warfare specialists, while Sweden, Norway, and Britain have provided three, two, and one officer respectively, according to sources."Geopolitical tensions have extended to the Arctic region. Consequently, the Government of Greenland and the Danish Ministry of Defense have resolved to maintain enhanced military training operations in Greenland, working closely with partners," the Danish Ministry of Defense stated on Wednesday."Starting today, we will have an increased military footprint—working in close coordination with NATO allies. The objective is to develop operational capabilities under the distinctive Arctic environment and to expand the alliance's presence in the region, which serves both European and transatlantic security interests," the ministry added."As component of the heightened presence in the Arctic and North Atlantic, the Danish Armed Forces are beginning today to deploy assets and units associated with the training activities. This will lead to a greater military presence in and around Greenland in the coming period, involving aircraft, ships, and troops, including those from NATO allies," the Danish Ministry of Defense also noted.The ministry indicated that the 2026 training activities "may involve protecting critical infrastructure, supporting local Greenlandic authorities including law enforcement, hosting allied forces, stationing fighter jets in and around Greenland, and carrying out naval missions.""Several officers from the Swedish Armed Forces are reaching Greenland today," Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson posted on X Wednesday. "They join a contingent from multiple allied nations. Collectively, they will lay groundwork for future phases under the Danish-led Operation Arctic Endurance exercise. Sweden is deploying military personnel at Denmark's request."Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen informed Reuters on Thursday that "The U.S. ambition to seize Greenland remains unchanged.""This is undoubtedly a serious matter, which is why we persist in our efforts to avert this possibility from materializing," the Prime Minister added.Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt held a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance at the White House on Wednesday.

January 15, 2026 by: nicole

It seems that Iran reopens its airspace after Trump claims the killing is ‘stopping’

On Thursday, Iran seemed to reopen its airspace following a sudden overnight closure that had disrupted flights throughout the region, even as the country was facing heightened security warnings and ongoing regional tensions. According to the aviation risk - monitoring site Safe Airspace, the overnight closure lasted approximately five hours after a Notice to Air Missions, or NOTAM. Safe Airspace cautions that the primary danger for civil aircraft in Iranian airspace during periods of heightened tensions is misidentification by air defense systems, currently rating the overall risk level as "One — Do Not Fly."On Wednesday, the President told reporters in the Oval Office that he had been informed that the killing of protesters in Iran was "stopping.""We've received a very strong notification, but we'll figure out what it all means. However, we've been told that the killing in Iran is coming to a halt," he stated.Sen. , R - S.C., disagreed with Trump, posting on X that every sign he had seen indicated that the Iranian regime's killing of anti - government protesters was "still going on full - throttle.""The death toll is rising every hour. Hoping that help is on the way," he wrote.The U.S. - based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which monitors human rights violations in Iran, said on Wednesday that nationwide protests had continued into the 18th day while the authorities maintained an almost complete internet shutdown.The group's combined data showed 617 protest gatherings in 187 cities across the country, the arrest of at least 18,470 people, and the confirmed deaths of 2,615 individuals.HRANA reported that 2,435 of those killed were protesters, including 13 children under the age of 18.Trump has taken action, warning Tehran in several Truth Social posts to stop killing its people."We are fully prepared and ready to act," he wrote on New Year’s Day.On Tuesday, the president said that he had canceled all meetings with Iranian officials and urged protesters to "TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!""Remember the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a heavy price," Trump wrote, adding, "HELP IS ON ITS WAY."

January 15, 2026 by: emer

First three HKTDC trade fairs of 2026 draw some 82,000 international buyers

HONG KONG, January 15, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 52nd HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, 17th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and 24th Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair concluded successfully today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Toys & Games Fair and Baby Products Fair were organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the Stationery & School Supplies Fair was jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The four-day physical fairs attracted some 82,000 buyers from 121 countries and regions, fostering cross-regional trade and cross-section cooperation. Opening to both trade buyers and the public, the newly launched “Pop & Play” pavilion was a big draw at the Toys & Games Fair and attracted some 10,000 public visits. The pavilion helped local toy brands connect with global buyers to expand into international markets, further unleashing the commercial potential of their IPs, while also enabling Chinese Mainland and overseas brands and IPs to engage directly with local fans of trendy toys and collectibles.Over 41,000 buyers visited the Toys & Games Fair, while some 27,000 and some 14,000 buyers attended the Baby Products Fair and Stationery & School Supplies Fair respectively. Buyers from outside Hong Kong primarily came from the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand from the ASEAN bloc, Korea, India and the US. Buyers from nearby Macao, ASEAN’s Vietnam, Belgium and Poland from Europe and South Africa also recorded double-digit growth. The fairs adopted the HKTDC’s hybrid EXHIBITION+ model, which includes the physical shows along with online access through the Click2Match smart business matching platform, which will continue connecting exhibitors and buyers until 22 January.Jenny Koo, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “This year's trio of fairs brought together more than 2,600 exhibitors from 37 countries and regions, attracting 82,000 global buyers to attend and kickstarting the HKTDC's busy calendar of events in 2026. The new ‘Pop & Play’ pavilion at the Toys & Games Fair proved to be highly popular, showcasing 150 trendy IPs alongside various fair premieres and global limited-edition collectibles. Representatives from diverse industries and sectors were keen to explore the commercial potential of different IPs and discuss cross-industry collaboration opportunities. The pavilion was also open to members of the public, with large numbers of visitors checking in, snapping photos and engaging directly with exhibitors. We believe the fair can amplify IP value through cultural integration, brand collaborations and market strategies, helping local brands to take their businesses beyond Hong Kong and onto the international stage."“Pop & Play” pavilion drove cross-industry IP collaborations, opened to public to promote interaction between industry and fansThe three fairs continued with the theme “New Play for All”, with the enduring popularity of trendy and collectible toys injecting strong growth momentum into the toy industry. The new “Pop & Play” pavilion brought together popular international and local IPs. Hong Kong exhibitor Matrix Promotion showcased 11 original local IPs and presented a series of fair-exclusive debut products. Founder and CEO Ray Leung said: “Combining B2C elements with B2B provides an energetic atmosphere that makes it easier to facilitate collaborations and build relationships with potential partners. Through the online and offline business matchings, we established around 50 local business contacts. These included not only toy industry buyers, but also cross-industry cooperation opportunities, such as with theme parks, loyalty programmes, digital commerce platforms, finance and insurance companies. These mainly involve designing exclusive premium items for clients based on their own IPs, which is currently a major trend in the market.”Onsite sales of IP products were also brisk. IP character B.Duck has long been popular in both Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland. Hong Kong Sales Representative for the company, Lai Chi-ying, shared: “The new ‘Pop & Play’ pavilion successfully integrates B2B and B2C elements, reaffirming that trendy collectibles remain a key industry trend locally and globally. During the fair, we connected with 30 potential clients — mainly toy distributors — from countries including Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Dubai, Russia, and North America. Our blind boxes also were a big hit with visitors, selling over 100 units in a short time. We expect participation in the event to contribute around 10% of our annual business growth.”Meanwhile, trendy toy enthusiast Mr. Hung visited the pavilion, saying: “The ‘Pop & Play’ pavilion offers an attractive and rich selection. We could appreciate many popular local and international trendy toy IPs, as well as the latest hot anime and IP-licensed products. It’s the perfect spot for exploring trendy collectibles and pop culture merchandise. The variety of trendy toys available for sale onsite is remarkably diverse. I spent around HK$2,000 and picked up multiple items including IP T-shirts, keychains, figurines, and Marvel toys – it was a truly fruitful visit!"Hong Kong toy exhibitor draws buyers’ attention with self-developed AI toysEastcolight (Hong Kong) Limited, a long-time participant at the Toys & Games Fair, showcased its self-developed artificial intelligence (AI) interactive story machine this year. Co-founder Salley Sze said: “With AI becoming a core market trend, our latest toy products now incorporate AI-assisted learning features. These AI products alone are expected to generate at least US$1 million in annual sales through the fair, while our other STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) product lines are projected to achieve US$2 million sales.”Happy Ageing label saw rising demand as sustainable toys remained popularWith ageing populations becoming a global reality, toys and games designed specifically for seniors or intergenerational family fun are now a rapidly growing market. The new Happy Ageing label was introduced at this year’s Toys & Games Fair to help identify products in this category. Peri Chow, Director of FritzS Learning (Hong Kong), said: “The new label has greatly helped our market expansion. During the fair, we connected with approximately 30 new clients from different industries and regions, including the Chinese Mainland, Germany, the Philippines, South Africa and Spain, such as nursing home caregivers and buyers for children’s toys.”Sustainable consumption continued to be a key focus across the fairs. In addition to the Green Toys zone at the Toys & Games Fair, both the toys and stationery fairs continued to employ the Green Solutions green leaf label, further facilitating the procurement of eco-friendly products. This year, over 400 exhibitors displayed the green leaf logo, double the number compared to 2024. DeAgostini Collectibles from Spain is a global publisher and distributor of collectibles. Sourcing Manager CMC, Sandra Lopez Herrero said, "We are particularly interested in sustainable design, especially the battery-free, hydraulic-powered eco-friendly toys exhibited by a Chinese Mainland supplier. We plan to place an order worth around US$1 million. The green leaf label, along with the Click2Match and Scan2Match platforms, have helped us track products and stay updated on emerging trends, such as the use of eco-friendly materials and the integration of artificial intelligence in toys."At the Baby Products Fair, the World of Strollers and Gear and ODM Strollers and Gear zones together hosted approximately 230 exhibitors, with an increase in both exhibitor numbers and fair areas compared to last year. The Selection of Europe pavilion returned in 2026 together with the Korean and Hong Kong Children, Babies, Maternity Industries Association pavilions. Among the European exhibitors, Swedish exhibitor AXKID expressed recognition of Hong Kong’s role as an international trade and innovation hub. Managing Director Roger Yan said: “As a leading city in innovation, Hong Kong helps us expand our market and reach more international customers. During the fair, we met buyers from Bulgaria, Slovenia, Japan, and Türkiye. One Bulgarian client has already placed an order for 2,000 child safety seats, valued at approximately €1.7 million. We will definitely exhibit again next year.”Jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, this year’s Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair welcomed Blaxall Optics Low Vision Limited from New Zealand for the first time. Company Director Gang Cheng said: "We showcased a range of optical magnifiers and related products and connected with 10 new buyers from Hong Kong, Macao, Poland, Thailand and more at the physical fair and through the Click2Match smart-matching platform. We anticipate these contacts will bring at least a 5% annual growth to our business, equivalent to US$100,000 in orders."Asian Toy & Games Forum explored key issues for toy manufacturersThe flagship Asian Toys & Games Forum was held during the Toys & Games Fair. Themed “Empowering the Toy Industry for Global Success”, the forum invited industry experts and guest speakers to discuss the latest industry updates and developments. Loo Wee Teck, Global Insights Manager, Toys and Games, Euromonitor International, shared insights on the toys and games market outlook and opportunities, while Alex Lin, Vice President and General Manager, Disney Consumer Products, Greater China and Korea, The Walt Disney Company, covered the global IP ecosystem and merchandising strategies.For more comments from exhibitors and buyers, please visit the following websites:- Toys and Games Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hktoyfair/en/success-stories- Baby Products Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkbabyfair/en/success-stories- Stationery & School Supplies Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkstationeryfair/en/success-storiesPhoto download: https://bit.ly/49IAOHhThe 52nd HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 17th HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 24th Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair, concluded successfully today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The first two events were organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), while the latter was jointly organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The four-day physical fairs attracted some 82,000 buyers from 121 countries and regionsThe new “Pop & Play” pavilion at the Toys & Games Fair attracted some 10,000 public visits, showcasing some 150 famous local and international IPs. Mascots Ah Pop and Ah Play made appearances to interact with visitorsArtist Snow Suen made a special appearance at the “Pop & Play” pavilion, drawing crowds of fansSinger and actress Joey Thye shared her experience of being an IP creatorDuring the fair, the “The Rise of Designers” sharing and signing session was held, featuring local renowned designers: b.wing, founder of la b.wing Galerie Ltd; Steven Choi, founder of Zu and Pi; and Winson Ma, founder and creative director of Winson Classic Creation. They shared their creative philosophies and paths to successThe new Happy Ageing label was introduced at this year’s Toys & Games Fair to help buyers identify toys and related products for seniors, such as companion plush toys that can help elderly people relieve loneliness and soothe their emotionsBoth the toys and stationery events continued to employ the Green Solutions green leaf label for identification, with more than 400 exhibitors displaying the green leaf label this year – double the number compared to 2024The Toys & Games and Baby Products fairs continued to feature the popular Brand Name Gallery, bringing together over 380 well-known brands from around the globeAt the Baby Products Fair, the World of Strollers and Gear and ODM Strollers and Gear zones both saw an increase in exhibitor numbers and fair area compared to last year The Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair featured the latest in creative art supplies, gift stationery, school and office suppliesThemed “Empowering the Toy Industry for Global Success”, the Asian Toys & Games Forum, the Toys & Games Fair’s flagship event, invited experts and guest speakers to discuss the latest industry updates and developmentsWith the three fairs coming under the mega-events banner, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (MICE Promotion Partner) arranged an evening harbour cruise for fair visitors, helping to promote MICE tourismFair websites- HKTDC Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair: hktoyfair.hktdc.com- HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair: hkbabyfair.hktdc.com- Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair: hkstationeryfair.comMedia enquiriesHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgWinnie KanTel: (852) 2584 4055Email: winnie.wy.kan@hktdc.orgClayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

The Creator of Star Trek’s Beloved Canceled Series Just Landed a New Sci-Fi Show

Vivien Killilea/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty ImagesComing to terms with the end of a new Star Trek series is tough—especially after years with no Star Trek on TV at all—and especially when it’s a great show like . The Trek franchise is always hunting for new corners of the final frontier to explore, but the animated comedy felt like the freshest addition to the universe in decades. By zeroing in on characters who’d likely be background players in any other Trek project, Lower Decks found a new sweet spot with an underdog story. Its felt premature, not to mention disappointing: the show had so much potential, and even after five seasons, it didn’t seem to be slowing down. While creator Mike McMahan assured Inverse that he , more or less, it still felt bittersweet that it had to end entirely. Luckily, McMahan has bounced back with another animated project. He and his Solar Opposites co-producer, Dominic Dierkes, are reuniting with CBS Studios for a new futuristic sitcom—and it sounds far bleaker than Lower Decks ever was.With Star Trek’s utopia behind him, McMahan is looking ahead to a slightly darker future. | Paramount+CBS Studios and Prime Video are teaming up to produce Odd Jobs, an adult animated comedy that feels a lot like . “In Odd Jobs, the year is 2127,” the synopsis reads. “The world is an extreme late-stage capitalist hellscape. The show follows a reluctant team of gig-workers as they travel around the neo Midwest, doing the weirdest, most dangerous tasks the ODD JOBS app demands.”According to McMahan and Dierkes, the series is based on their harrowing (and, from the sound of it, darkly funny) vision of the future. “While wandering through the wilderness, we accidentally stumbled through a portal and found ourselves hundreds of years in the future,” the duo said in a statement. “We witnessed bizarre and grotesque portents about where humanity is heading. Instead of acting on those warnings, we're thrilled to turn them into an animated show.”In this age of dystopia, black comedy certainly feels like the only way to go—but Odd Jobs will at least depict the end of the world with style. Titmouse, the animation studio behind Lower Decks (as well as shows like , The Legend of Vox Machina, and Big Mouth), has been tapped to bring the series to life. It’s great news for any fan of McMahan’s work: though Lower Decks is gone, his next take on the future should be just as gripping.

January 15, 2026 by: grit

NEC Launches “NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure Solution” for Distributed Computing Resources

TOKYO, Jan 15, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) today announced the launch of its "NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure Solution" in Japan, enabling flexible and distributed deployment of computing resources such as servers and GPUs. This solution aims to reduce capital investment and operating costs for data centers and research institutions, while also promoting energy efficiency, by leveraging NEC's proprietary "ExpEther" technology for reliable and low-latency transmission of IT equipment signals.NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure SolutionThe demand for AI applications, including generative AI and data analysis, has been rapidly expanding. However, data centers and research institutions face challenges in flexibly scaling resources, leading to increased capital investment and operational costs. Servers are often configured to handle peak loads, resulting in over-provisioning of resources, wasted power, and rising costs due to frequent equipment upgrades. As a result, there is a strong need for efficient, energy-saving, and flexible operational approaches.This solution can separate components such as CPUs and GPUs from their physical enclosures, enabling them to be distributed over data center-scale networks. This facilitates flexible and efficient operation of various resources within data centers and enterprises, maximizing the overall utilization efficiency of systems. Its effectiveness has been confirmed through joint verification with Osaka University and at the NEC Inzai Data Center, with results being progressively published on NEC’s website.1. High Scalability and Flexible System ConstructionThe solution consists of ExpEther boards equipped with a 100G version of the ExpEther IP core (*1) which enables 100Gbps Ethernet optical fiber connectivity, an expansion IO Box capable of housing eight GPUs, and the NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure Manager (*2) for efficient resource operations. These components allow for the flexible, large scale distributed deployment of computing resources, free from constraints of enclosures or installation locations. This enables flexible and dynamic configuration of computing resources across different floors or buildings within data centers or enterprises, according to the power supply and cooling capabilities of each location. Furthermore, equipment upgrades can be performed flexibly on a per-device basis, maintaining high scalability while keeping initial costs low.2. Efficient Utilization of Computing Resources and Cost ReductionThe ability to flexibly allocate resources as needed prevents resource shortages during peak times and avoids idle assets. Additionally, by turning off unused resources, power consumption is suppressed, contributing to significant reductions in capital investment and operational costs through effective utilization of computing resources.Configuration of the NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure SolutionThe "NEC Composable Disaggregated Infrastructure Solution" represents a significant step forward in optimizing computing resource management. By enabling flexible, distributed deployment and efficient utilization of resources, NEC aims to address critical challenges faced by data centers and research institutions. Moving forward, NEC will first launch this solution in the Japanese market. NEC will continue to innovate and expand this technology for various sectors, contributing to the development of more efficient and sustainable digital infrastructure.(*1) This article is based on results obtained from a project, JPNP20017, subsidized by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).(*2) This article is based on results obtained from a project, JPNP21029, subsidized by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).About NECThe NEC Group leverages technology to create social value and promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. NEC Corporation was established in 1899. Today, the NEC Group’s approximately 110,000 employees utilize world-leading AI, security, and communications technologies to solve the most pressing needs of customers and society. For more information, please visit https://www.nec.com, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

January 15, 2026 by: emer

A True Empowerer – AGFA HealthCare Radiates Imaging Innovation at ECR 2026

MORTSEL, BE, Jan 15, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - At ECR 2026, AGFA HealthCare will unveil its latest imaging innovations that transform the clinician experience and drive smarter care. Turning knowledge into action, AGFA delivers advancements which empower radiologists with seamless workflows, intelligent automation and tailored diagnostic environments. Under the event 2026 theme "Rays of Knowledge", AGFA is ready to demonstrate how we have reached the summit of Empowerer - adopting the ‘Clinician-First' approach, which demonstrates a profound understanding of the clinician's challenges and workflow realities."Clinician First is more than a message - it's a mindset", says Andrea Polticchia, Regional President for Southern Europe, AGFA HealthCare. "This approach reflects our deepened commitment - technology exists to serve clinicians, not the other way around. We are seen as the Empowerer in our markets - a partner that understands, anticipates, and designs for the clinician real world experience. This is the level of empowerment that truly supports clinicians - and when clinicians are supported, patient care thrives."Built for the people, not just the image, AGFA HealthCare's Enterprise Imaging platform is designed to keep clinicians, IT teams and healthcare enterprises focused, confident and in control. More than a solution, it's a connected ecosystem that unifies teams and technologies, simplifies complexity and strengthens collaboration across the care continuum. It's where advanced technology meets real human need, turning complexity into clarity and burnout into balance."ECR has long stood as the pinnacle of European radiological excellence and is the perfect stage to empower the clinical community," says Roberto Anello, Regional President for Northern Europe, AGFA HealthCare. "Enterprise Imaging brings precision and clarity to every clinical moment, transforming years of experience into seamless diagnostic flow. AGFA HealthCare, has reached a new summit, where deep clinical insight, cutting-edge technology, and human connection converge. Every click, every case, every collaboration is purpose-built around the radiologist's reality, whether at the hospital, at home, or across a connected care network."What's New at ECR 2026:Streaming Client - Blazing fast. Wherever you are.With AGFA HealthCare's zero-footprint Streaming Client, radiologists enjoy a full diagnostic experience right in their browser. Combining blazing speed with full-fidelity and personalized workflow tools, it allows them to read from any location with the same precision and familiarity they expect on-site.RUBEE® Orchestrator - The right case to the right radiologist at the right timeWorkflow Orchestration, powered by RUBEE®, helps radiology teams stay aligned, efficient and focused, with smarter workflows, credential-aware distribution, live SLA dashboards and personalized worklists.RUBEE® AI - Embedded intelligence that supports clinical controlFlexible and vendor-neutral, RUBEE® AI provides seamless access to curated and third-party algorithms, with AI results integrated directly into the diagnostic workflow. It is deeply embedded to deliver fast decision support that enhances rather than replaces human expertise, enabling radiologists to work with greater efficiency, consistency and confidence.Enterprise Imaging Cloud - Seamless imaging, with no barriersDelivering imaging without barriers, Enterprise Imaging Cloud is a fully managed SaaS solution that removes complexity from IT operations, speeds deployment, and guarantees up to 99.99% uptime. With trusted security, effortless scalability, and peace of mind built in, it keeps imaging seamless - everywhere.Radiating Rays of KnowledgeEducation stands at the heart of our presence at ECR 2026. Through interactive sessions and expert dialogues, AGFA HealthCare shares insights that empower clinicians - helping them grow, connect, and evolve together.AI Lightning Talk: "From Pixels to Practical Outcomes: Orchestrating Trustworthy AI Across Radiology with Enterprise Imaging" - Weds 4 March 14:10 - 14:30See ground-breaking Augmented Intelligence at the AI Lightning Talk! Taking place in the AI Theatre, Dr Anjum Ahmed, Global Chief Medical Officer and Global Director Enterprise Imaging & AI, will deliver an outstanding session on Workflow Intelligence, Foundation Models, and the Art of Clinical Trust in the AI Era.Clinical Lunch & Learn Session: "Networked Radiology and AI for a Sustainable Imaging Future" - Thursday 5 March 13:00Engage with our panel of European Radiologists at the Satellite Symposium session, taking place in Room G2 (Level -2). Dr Peter Strouhal (Alliance Medical - UK), plus Dr Davide Ippolito (Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Italy), Dr Filip Deckers (ZAS Hospital, Belgium), and Dr Athanasios Chalazonitis (Alexandra General Hospital, Greece) form an incredible team of imaging disrupters. They will be discussing discuss how Imaging Health Networks and AI-enabled workflows are transforming radiology services.We cannot wait to see you in Vienna. Join #TeamAGFA as we stand proud on our Empowerer pedestal, shaping our own legacy by placing the ‘Clinician-First'. And when Clinicians are first, we see imaging empowered. That's life in flow.See the future of imaging at ECR 2026. Booth #X2 214. To schedule a demo or register for clinical sessions, visit: www.agfahealthcare.com/ecrAbout AGFA HealthCareAt AGFA HealthCare, we understand that striking the critical balance between clinical efficiency and quality patient care starts with the clinician experience. We recognize how vital it is for clinicians to be fully immersed in their cases, channeling all their energy into delivering confident, informed diagnoses. That's why we designed our Enterprise Imaging platform to eliminate the barriers that get in the way. When distractions melt away, technology feels like an extension of one's thought process, and each clinician has everything they need to perform at the top of their craft. That's life in flow.This belief shapes everything we do - guided by our Mission, Vision, and Customer Delivery Principles, which are designed to empower clinicians and elevate their experience.AGFA HealthCare is a division of the Agfa-Gevaert Group. For more information on AGFA HealthCare, please visit www.agfahealthcare.com and follow us on LinkedIn.AGFA and the Agfa rhombus are registered trademarks of Agfa-Gevaert N.V. Belgium or its affiliates. All information contained herein is intended for guidance purposes only, and the characteristics of the products and services described in this publication can be changed at any time without notice. Products and services may not be available for your local area. Please contact your local sales representative for availability information. AGFA HealthCare diligently strives to provide as accurate information as possible but shall not be responsible for any typographical error.Media ContactJessica Baldry, Global Marketing & Communications, jessica.baldry@agfa.com Tel +44 7583 203971SOURCE: Agfa HealthCare Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

A 2025 Top Film Nearly Featured an Unexpected Vampire Plot Turn

A24Similar to many films, Marty Supreme was an incredibly memorable experience. Even though I may not watch it again, certain scenes are stuck in my head: the bathtub shot, Rachel in the phone booth, the honey story, and the final song. However, one moment stands out the most: a seemingly random line delivered to Marty during a climactic argument.Director Safdie recently explained on a podcast that this line was not initially intended to be a mere oddity. According to him, the film could have had a radically different conclusion.Kevin O’Leary’s Marty Supreme character was initially very different. | A24In the final act of Marty Supreme, Marty Mauser (Timothée Chalamet) breaks his agreement with Milton Rockwell (Kevin O’Leary) to intentionally lose a match to his rival, Koto Endo (Koto Kawaguchi). Rockwell attempts to reassert his dominance, stating, “I was born in 1601. I'm a vampire. I've been around forever. I've met many Marty Mausers over the centuries. Some of them crossed me, some of them weren't straight. They weren't honest. And those are the ones that are still here.”Although this sounds like a metaphor for his influence, it was apparently conceived as a literal threat to condemn Marty to an immortal existence. O’Leary, famous as Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank, has maintained that he improvised the dialogue. A report on December 31, 2025, stated that O’Leary invented this character history, saying, “I have to be a vampire in this movie, and I have to give him eternity in misery.” He also said he had molds made for custom vampire fangs before the scene was altered. Shortly after, another outlet reported seeing a video from O’Leary to Safdie detailing Rockwell's vampire nature.Safdie has now provided his account. While appearing on a podcast with Sean Baker, director of Anora, Safdie disclosed the original plan for O’Leary's improvised backstory. He said an early concept for the ending featured an epilogue with an elderly Marty taking his granddaughter to a concert in the 1980s, where he meets a completely unchanged Rockwell, who then bites him.“We built the prosthetic for Timmy and everything,” Safdie stated. “And Mr. Wonderful shows up behind him and takes a bite out of his neck, and that was the last thing in the movie.”It is startling to consider such a blatant supernatural turn in this film, though Marty Supreme is not known for its subtlety. Ultimately, the version that reached theaters provides a fitting conclusion to Marty's chaotic journey, without requiring any fangs.Marty Supreme is now playing in theaters.

January 15, 2026 by: emer

OPPO Appoints Stagwell (STGW) Agencies in Singapore: Allison Worldwide for PR and Influencer; Assembly for Media

SINGAPORE, Jan 15, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Stagwell (NASDAQ:STGW) today announced that OPPO, a leading global smart device brand, appointed Allison Worldwide as its public relations and influencer partner and Assembly as its media partner in Singapore, following a competitive pitch. Working within Stagwell's integrated operating model, the Stagwell agencies will deliver an end-to-end‑ program combining earned influence with data-driven‑ media to deliver culturally relevant campaigns with measurable outcomes.Allison Worldwide will lead earned influence - PR strategy, executive positioning, and content development - while Assembly will manage end-to-end media planning and activation across Singapore's priority channels, strategically optimizing investments to support OPPO's commercial objectives‑ and drive sales conversions. Together, they will operate as one integrated Stagwell team to ensure seamless planning, measurement, and optimization that connects the full funnel from awareness to conversion.Kelvyn Foo, General Manager & Regional Growth Lead, APAC at Allison Worldwide, alongside Sharon Soh, Managing Director, Southeast Asia at Assembly, will lead the OPPO account. Assembly will apply its STAGE AI Experience Engine and Brand Performance Planning model to optimize media investment and drive conversion across Singapore's priority channels. Allison Worldwide will tap established media and creator relationships and B2C tech storytelling expertise to sustain momentum beyond launch moments."The Stagwell team has delivered localized marketing solutions that are highly aligned with OPPO's global marketing strategy. We are inspired by the depth of their local capabilities, from content development and resource integration to public relations and media execution. We look forward to building a strong partnership and co‑creating meaningful and impactful marketing campaigns moving forward," said Dylan Yu, OPPO Singapore marketing director."We're proud to support OPPO's next chapter in Singapore. Our team looks forward to amplifying the brand's bedrock of consumer trust and deepening consumer preference, and further connecting with OPPO's performance-driven audience through culturally relevant, outcome driven‑ marketing," said Margaret Key, Stagwell Executive Director, Asia Pacific.About OPPOOPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - "Smiley Face" - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.About Allison WorldwideAllison Worldwide is a digital-first, data-led and future-focused communications agency helping clients see around corners and be ahead of what's next. Not too big and not too small, Allison provides end-to-end global communications, PR, influencer, analytics and marketing support to clients from the Fortune 500 to start-ups. Allison is owned by Stagwell (NASDAQ:STGW), one of the fastest-growing and most influential marketing and communications networks in the world.About AssemblyAssembly is a global omnichannel agency built for brands that want a more modern approach to building brands that perform. Backed by the Stagwell network, we are a literal assembly of data, talent, and technology built to unlock smarter, faster, and better-performing outcomes from the bottom up -not the top down. Curious, collaborative, and driven by change, we are an agency of builders who believe the better the experience, the better the performance. We don't see brand and performance as an either/or. For us, it's always both. The + symbol in our logo, known as the ORAD, represents this mindset. It's a mark of how we think, how we build, and how we deliver results across the full funnel. Assembly's foundation is built on three core elements: our purpose-built STAGE Experience Engine, the strategic product it powers-Brand Performance Planning (BPP) - and an organizational design built for speed, depth, and the demands of modern marketing. Together, they enable us to build better brand experiences that reimagine how brands connect, engage, and grow across data, tech, media, creative and commerce. With over 3,000 experts in 44 offices worldwide, Assembly delivers full-funnel solutions that help the world's most ambitious brands perform. Learn more at assemblyglobal.com.About StagwellStagwell is the global challenger network transforming marketing through AI. We deliver scaled creative performance for the world's most ambitious brands, connecting culture-moving creativity with leading-edge technology to harmonize the art and science of marketing. Led by entrepreneurs, our specialists in 45+ countries are unified under a single purpose: to drive effectiveness and improve business results for our clients. Join us at www.stagwellglobal.com.Media contactspr@stagwellglobal.comOppo.SG@allisonworldwide.comSOURCE: Stagwell Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

‘The Marvels’ Director Knew About ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Captain America Reveal for Years

Nia DaCosta wants everyone to know there's no bad blood between her and Marvel Studios.The Marvels director had spoken about the grueling process of directing a Marvel movie, admitting that "the best didn't happen this time, but you kind of have to trust in the machine." DaCosta's comments at the April 2025 Dublin screenwriting festival Storyhouse sparked a wave of discourse over the "Marvel machine" and how it can stifle the talents of indie filmmakers like DaCosta that Marvel loves to poach for their features. But DaCosta assures us that she's still on good terms with Marvel and Marvel Studios chief."I mean, it's so funny because the way it was reported, it seemed very dramatic, but actually I f***ing love Kevin Feige, and we all get along," DaCosta tells Inverse. "At the end of the day, [The Marvels is] a Disney film. It's a family film."In fact, DaCosta even got to visit the Avengers: Doomsday set last summer, where she says she got to see Chris Evans reprise his role as Steve Rogers. "I got to walk around to the set that they show on the teaser," DaCosta says excitedly.Nia DaCosta takes a selfie with Kevin Feige. | Denise Truscello/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty ImagesBut DaCosta reveals that she knew that long before she visited the set last year. "I knew that Captain America was coming back for probably years," she says, confirming that for quite a while now.She struggled to keep it a secret, but was relieved when the teasers were finally released over the past few weeks. She has a particular fondness for the, because "I'm a huge X-Men girly and I was just dying," DaCosta says. "I remember asking Kevin, 'What is going to happen, Kevin? What's happening?' It's emotional [for] my nerd baby girl heart."For now, she's happy to watch from the sidelines. "I'm rooting for them, and I know they're rooting for me," she says. She's taken what she's learned from directing The Marvels to make her newest film, , the sequel to Danny Boyle and Alex Garland's long-awaited 28 Years Later, and a very different film from her Marvel movie."There's a lot more blood in Bone Temple," DaCosta jokes. "This movie is basically a very big-budget independent film, but because of my Marvel experience, I knew what to ask for going into this experience."28 Years Later: The Bone Temple opens in theaters January 16.

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

FEV? ‘Fallout’ Just Made a Major Video Game Easter Egg Canon

Amazon Prime VideoFallout might be closely following the canon of the original games, but that doesn’t mean every detail will stay the same. We’ve already learned about Mr. House’s , and it seems the ending of this season will differ from that in Fallout: New Vegas. Because of this, any resemblance to the games still comes as a total surprise — and could hint at something more significant in the future. In Season 2 Episode 5 of Fallout, one of the game’s most prominent elements has now been made canon, suggesting we might encounter an iconic creature down the line. Warning! Spoilers ahead for Fallout Season 2 Episode 5.Norm uncovers a covert project named “F.E.V.” in Fallout Season 2 Episode 5. | Amazon Prime VideoIn Fallout Season 2 Episode 5, “The Wrangler,” Norm and the newly awakened Bud’s Buds leave their vault and head to Vault-Tec HQ, where Norm hacks into a computer terminal to uncover the true purpose of the vaults. On screen, we see the acronym “F.E.V.,” an abbreviation later revealed to be exactly what fans hoped: Forced Evolutionary Virus. F.E.V. is essentially a way to accelerate evolution, a bright green liquid that, when consumed, causes specific mutations in the user. In the Fallout games, this substance is used by the Enclave (the group behind the science experiments in Season 1 of the series). They employed it to create super mutants, a new subspecies of super-strong (but sterile) creatures that roam the wasteland. A fan theory suggests Thaddeus may be transforming into a mutant, not a ghoul. | Amazon Prime VideoClues about F.E.V. have been present all along. Remember the odd “cure” Thaddeus took back in Season 1? A major fan theory posits he was actually exposed to F.E.V., meaning his “ghoulification” is really him turning into a mutant. The phrase “super mutant” was even explicitly mentioned in the Season 1 finale, when a West-Tek representative proposed creating “a vault to develop a super-mutant soldier using illegal immigrants.”What does this mean for the future of Fallout? F.E.V. and super mutants appear in every Fallout game, so this doesn’t hint at anything specific, but their inclusion means the appearance of a live-action super mutant is a matter of when, not if. For many, Fallout isn’t truly Fallout without super mutants, so this might be the big reveal we can look forward to by the season’s end. Perhaps Season 3 of Fallout will explore this key canonical element further. Fallout Season 2 is now streaming on Prime Video.

January 15, 2026 by: eqs

WuXi XDC issues positive profit alert, to acquire BioDlink in bid to strengthen ADC CDMO lead

EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 15/01/2026 / 12:50 UTC+8 January 14, 2026 — WuXi XDC has issued a positive profit alert for fiscal 2025 and announced a cash tender offer for BioDlink, whose shares were suspended from trading at 9am on December 29 pending details of the bid. The alert underscores the ADC CRDMO leader’s strong performance: it forecasts 45% year-on-year revenue growth in 2025, alongside over 70% gross profit growth and more than 45% growth in adjusted net profit (excluding interest income and expenses). Stripping out exchange rate fluctuations, adjusted net profit growth is projected to hit 65%. A pioneer in the ADC CRDMO space, WuXi XDC has driven synergistic growth through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions amid strong business momentum. The BioDlink acquisition will boost its operational capacity in China, expand production scale, enhance support for biotech firms via value-added services, broaden its project portfolio and customer base, and reinforce its leading position in the ADC CDMO sector. "Capital for time": WuXi XDC targets CDMO capacity bottlenecks The bioconjugate drug industry has reached a commercial inflection point as clinical pipelines expand, widening the capacity gap. Public data shows 21 ADC drugs had been approved globally by end-December 2025. Emerging classes such as AOCs, RDCs and PDCs are advancing rapidly with robust late-stage pipelines, emerging as new growth drivers in biopharma. Against accelerating global bioconjugate commercialisation, insufficient capacity has become a major constraint for CDMOs. Rapid pipeline expansion and upcoming commercial demand have made "capacity delivery capability" a core competitive advantage and key metric for investors assessing CDMO growth potential. For leading CDMOs, the approach to resolving capacity bottlenecks directly shapes market influence. Building new production lines—from site selection and construction to certification—typically takes three to five years, too slow to keep pace with surging bioconjugate commercial demand. WuXi XDC’s proactive strategy of acquiring existing facilities, using efficient capital operations to capture market opportunities, stands out as optimal in the sector. The BioDlink deal aligns with this logic, enabling rapid capacity expansion via external integration and ensuring steady performance growth. Building on strengths: Tech platforms and talent drive growth WuXi XDC leads the industry with advanced conjugation and payload-linker technologies, and extensive bioconjugate drug development experience. It has rolled out innovative platforms including WuXiDARx™, dual-payload conjugation, X-LinC linker, and WuXiTecan-1/2 payload-linker technologies. To meet global customers’ diverse ordering needs and complex R&D requirements, it adopts a two-pronged "independent R&D plus external collaboration" strategy to build an integrated technology platform. This enriches technical reserves, boosts front-end R&D pipeline generation, and strengthens its R&D leadership. Talent is critical to the bioconjugate CDMO sector, but rapid industry growth has outpaced professional talent supply, a key growth constraint. WuXi XDC has long prioritised talent development; its workforce exceeded 2,600 by end-2025. The expanded professional team has formed a talent cluster, underpinning long-term growth. Riding the wave: WuXi XDC’s global capacity push Data from PharmaCube’s NextPharma shows China’s innovative drug overseas licensing transactions hit $135.655bn in 2025, including $7bn in upfront payments across 157 deals—far outstripping 2024’s $51.9bn and 94 transactions. Overseas licensing has seen explosive growth, with upfront payments and total volume at record highs. As a key bioconjugate segment, ADCs are a focus for global capital. WuXi XDC has delivered standout performance here, with steady post-listing revenue growth underscoring both the bioconjugate CDMO track’s potential and the company’s core competitiveness. Sustained business growth has made capacity expansion a key driver of high growth. By end-December 2025, WuXi XDC had worked with over 640 global customers on 252 iCMC projects. It also holds 18 PPQ projects and one commercial project, with nearly 1,000 production batches of drug substance (DS) and drug product (DP). These figures highlight strong market expansion and capacity deployment, reflecting robust demand for its services. The industry’s capacity shortage is both quantitative and structural, marked by a lack of "high-quality, integrated" capacity. Hundreds of ADCs globally are in active clinical phases, creating strong demand for commercial capacity. Meanwhile, bioconjugates’ complex production processes, high industry barriers and long supply chains have further widened the gap. Against this backdrop, WuXi XDC has established capacity in Wuxi, Jiangyin, Hefei (China) and Singapore. This global network meets global customers’ local production needs, improves operational efficiency via coordinated capacity allocation, strengthens its bioconjugate CDMO lead, and allows it to fully capture industry growth opportunities. Table: WuXi XDC’s capacity layout as of end-2025 Layout Capacity Wuxi Site XBCM1(Conjugation DS): 5-500L per batch XBCM2 L1&L2(Dual-function lines for antibody and conjugation DS): 50L to 2000L per batch for monoclonal antibody intermediates or up to 2000L of DS per batch Conjugation DP Lines: XDP1: annual capacity of 3 million vials XDP2: annual capacity of 5 million vials XDP3: annual capacity of 7 million vials XDP5: annual capacity of 12 million vials, expected to GMP release in 2027 XDP6: annual capacity of 10 million vials, expected to GMP release by late 2027 / early 2028 XPLM1 (Kilogram-scale payload-linker Line, business from former Changzhou site is being gradually transferred to Wuxi site) Singapore Site XBCM3(Dual-function line for antibody and conjugation DS): 50L to 2000L per batch for monoclonal antibody intermediates or up to 2000L of DS per batch, expected to GMP release in 2026 XBCM4(Conjugation DS): up to 500L per batch, expected to GMP release in 2026 XDP4(Conjugation DP): annual capacity of 8 million vials, expected to be operational in 2026 Jiangyin Site Integrated Commercial Manufacturing Site: serves as a nearby expansion for Wuxi site, including large-scale commercial small molecule production and conjugation production workshops. Hefei Site Non-GMP Manufacturing: Peptide annual capacity of ~600 batches, ~30kg GMP Manufacturing: Peptide annual capacity of ~200 batches, ~10kg Data source: Company filings WuXi XDC to sustain capacity expansion drive Looking ahead, WuXi XDC will continue to advance overseas capacity expansion steadily and proactively, further entrenching its global leadership in the bioconjugate CDMO sector. In September 2025, the company completed a $350m refinancing, leveraging strong performance and industry reputation. Combined with a previous $200m credit facility and operational reserves, it has built a sufficient capital pool to support global capacity expansion. Backed by solid capital and mature expansion experience, WuXi XDC will pursue overseas capacity growth at an "active yet prudent" pace. It is evaluating global expansion opportunities to optimise its production network—moves that will enable local delivery, deepen penetration in the global bioconjugate CDMO sector, and reinforce its industry lead. Outlook WuXi XDC’s accelerated capacity deployment mirrors the rapid growth of ADC and other bioconjugate industries, driving the CDMO sector into a golden growth period. Frost & Sullivan data shows the global ADC drug market reached $17.2bn in 2025, with a 30.6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2023 to 2032, and is set to exceed $115.1bn by 2032. The global ADC outsourcing market is also growing strongly, projected to hit $11bn by 2030 with a 28.4% CAGR from 2022 to 2030. High growth in both sectors offers ample room for CDMO expansion. Capacity shortages are a phased challenge in the booming bioconjugate CDMO industry, unlikely to be fully resolved short-term. Over the medium to long term, however, new capacity from leading players and rising industry concentration will ease the supply-demand imbalance. WuXi XDC’s early focus on "acquisition plus expansion"—backed by accurate industry trend judgment—has secured its edge in current capacity competition and positioned it to dominate the future bioconjugate CDMO landscape, leveraging strengths in capacity scale, technical barriers and global reach. Sources 1. Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX) 2. WuXi XDC 3. Frost & Sullivan 4. PharmaCube 5. Insight Database 6. WuXi XDC presentation, 2025 Jefferies London Healthcare Conference 15/01/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com

January 15, 2026 by: jenn

Marvel’s Most Uneven Directors Might Finally Be Staging A Comeback

Prime VideoIt’s reasonable to say the Russo brothers’ latest projects haven’t fully met expectations. Directors Anthony and Joe Russo appeared to reach their height within the Marvel Cinematic Universe; their Captain America films are considered the best of the franchise, and Endgame was a spectacular event in its own right. This success has overshadowed the small number of action films they’ve made for streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime in recent years. These works range from mediocre to poor—from the decent Extraction to and the truly awful . Given their spotty recent record, it’s no surprise the Russos jumped at the chance [gap] when it came along. They’re returning to direct two more Avengers blockbusters: Doomsday and Secret Wars, which are shaping up to be a genuine comeback for the duo. But before Doomsday hits theaters this December, The Bluff might beat it to the punch as an early indicator of their return to form.The Russos only act as producers on The Bluff—Frank E. Flowers is the director—but their influence is evident throughout the film. It shares parallels with their past action projects, both good and bad. Its visual effects sometimes have their signature dull, murky look, but The Bluff promises to compensate with intense, physical action and a fascinating historical setup. Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a Citadel alum, plays Ercell: a former pirate who left her crew to live a quiet life in the Cayman Islands. Decades later, she’s happily settled with a spouse and children, but when her old captain (Karl Urban from The Boys) arrives, she’s forced to pick up her sword and face her past.The Bluff has had its own share of chaos: it initially [gap] with Zoe Saldaña in the lead role, before moving to Prime Video. It will be interesting to see how Chopra portrays such a ruthless character, though the trailer snippet might ease any negative memories of Citadel. This film could be a fantastic showcase for both her and the Russos, who’ve struggled consistently lately—whether directing or producing. Perhaps The Bluff is the first sign of a refreshed director-producer team: when nothing else works, a pirate adventure is a solid choice.The Bluff debuts on Prime Video on February 25.

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WuXi XDC issues positive profit alert, to acquire BioDlink in bid to strengthen ADC CDMO lead

Marvel’s Most Uneven Directors Might Finally Be Staging A Comeback