TOKYO, Jan 30, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Anime Tokyo Station (2-25-5 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo) is an anime exhibition facility dedicated to Japanese anime content, which has developed a passionate fan base both in Japan and abroad. Since its opening, the venue welcomed over 250,000 visitors from around the world.Led by the concept of rediscovering the appeal of anime, Anime Tokyo Station has expanded its presence to Roblox, one of the world’s leading immersive platforms, through the release of ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOX, a hub with interactive games that allow players to explore the charm of Japanese anime and the world of Anime Tokyo Station itself. This Roblox hub has already been visited by over 630,000 players. To commemorate the hub's one-year anniversary, Anime Tokyo Station will be making various updates and giving out free gifts. In addition to giving out free "Shoulder-Perched Cat Train Conductors" that players can use to customize their avatars, the ANIME☆OTODAMA game will be expanded with a new "Momotaro" scenario and the ANIME☆SKILL TCG will be getting new cards, a new ADR timing minigame, and a new undersea passage area. Furthermore, Anime Tokyo Station will also be giving out in-game badges to commemorate the 1st anniversary of the hub's release and, in conjunction with this badge give-away, it will also be handing out exclusive gifts in the real-world Anime Tokyo Station.Please take this opportunity to enjoy Anime Tokyo Station in both the metaverse and the real world.For more information on how to play the game and upcoming version updates, please visit the ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOX special page within the Anime Tokyo Station website.ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOX special page: https://animetokyo.jp/en/roblox/Title:ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOXUpdate date:January 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.(JST)Platform:Roblox (iOS, Android, PC, PlayStation5, PlayStation4, Xbox One)Genre:Party gameURL:https://www.roblox.com/games/85319291338189/*You will need to download the Roblox app and register an account to access the game. One-Year Anniversary Project(1) The first 2,000 people to complete the mission will receive "Shoulder-Perched Cat Train Conductors" (free UGC)The first 2,000 players to complete the mission that unlocks at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026 will receive free UGC that they can use to customize their player visuals!Perch this cute cat train conductor that welcomes visitors to ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOX on your avatar's shoulder.(2) Momotaro is coming to ANIME☆OTODAMA, along with a new shop!Momotaro, a superhero from the world of Japanese fairy tales, is coming to the world of ANIME☆OTODAMA. Collect the special otodamas to unlock the dog, monkey, pheasant, and ogre of the Momotaro story. Enjoy watching the kind of spectacle you can only expect from Anime Tokyo Station, a facility dedicated to showcasing the appeal of anime.Two ANIME☆SKILL TCG shops will also be opening up: Kinema Club and Anime TAIZEN. Here, you can buy items to make the game even more fun.(3) A new minigame, map, and skill cards in ANIME☆SKILL TCGNew skill cards and character cards will be added to ANIME☆SKILL TCG, which launched last November. Now players can have even more fun in the world of anime production. There will also be a new minigame, the ADR Timing Game, where players can collect the coins they'll need to get new cards. The map will feature a new undersea passage, creating an even larger game world for players to explore.ADR Timing GameHow to play:Tap when the 〇 and 〇 line up! If your ADR is successful, your score will rise. Shoot for a high score to collect special cards and coins!(4) All players will receive a commemorative badge celebrating the one-year anniversary!Everyone who visits ANIME TOKYO STATION ON ROBLOX will receive a commemorative badge to celebrate the hub's one-year anniversary. These badges will only be given out until March 31, so make sure to come by and get one.(5) Free pouches will be given out at the real-world Anime Tokyo StationVisitors to the real-world Anime Tokyo Station, located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, will receive exclusive pouches when they present a one-year anniversary commemorative badge that they received in-game in (4).Pouches will be given out until Tuesday, March 31, but supplies are limited. Take this opportunity to visit Anime Tokyo Station in person and get one before they're all gone.Information on Version Updates and Release CampaignsFor information on gift campaigns within Roblox and upcoming version updates, please visit the official website and official X account.Special website page: https://animetokyo.jp/en/roblox/Official X account: https://x.com/animetokyo_info (@animetokyo_info)What is Roblox?As of the end of December 2024, Roblox is the world's fastest-growing immersive social platform. It is available in 190 countries and 16 languages, and has roughly 90 million daily active users (as of November 2024). It is particularly popular with young people. Users spend an average of 2.4 hours a day in Roblox, and total play time is on the rise, increasing 24% year-on-year. In Roblox, users can enjoy both gaming and social features. It is particularly popular in the U.S. and Canada, and in Asia, is rapidly growing in Japan and India. Its Japanese user base has grown 56% year-on-year. Roblox is also starting to be used for education, business, and community revitalization, and expectations are high for its continued future expansion.Venue OverviewName:Anime Tokyo Station (also known as "Anime Tokyo")Location:Floors B1 to 2F of Tokyu East 5 (2-25-5 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo)*4 minutes on foot from Ikebukuro StationHours:11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (last admission: 6:45 p.m. last admission for special exhibitions: 6:30 p.m.)Closed: Mondays*If Monday falls on a holiday, the venue will be open on Monday and closed on the following dayNew Year's holiday periodMay be closed on other daysPlease check the venue website before coming.Admission fee:FreeWebsite:https://animetokyo.jp/en/SNS：X｜https://x.com/animetokyo_info (@animetokyo_info)Instagram｜https://www.instagram.com/animetokyostation/(@animetokyostation)YouTube｜https://www.youtube.com/@AnimeTokyoStationInquiries regarding this press releasePublic Relations Office of "Anime Tokyo Station" (Kyodo PR)Contact person: Miri YasudaE-mail: animetokyo-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp Press release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20260130.pdf Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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EU set to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist group; Germany vows swift action
On Thursday, the European Union (EU) took steps to label the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a terrorist group, and Germany committed to making this decision legally enforceable at the earliest opportunity.This action was accompanied by a sanctions package targeting Iranian officials and entities, occurring amid the brutal suppression of protests and mass fatalities that have engulfed the nation since December 28.Tehran’s provision of military assistance to Russia was another component of these measures.On Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her approval of the classification and the sanctions package."I welcome the political agreement on new sanctions against the murderous Iranian regime," von der Leyen stated in an X post. "And on labeling the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization—this was long overdue.""A regime that bloodily quashes its own citizens’ protests truly deserves the label ‘terrorist.’ Europe stands in solidarity with the people of Iran in their courageous struggle for freedom."German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul noted that the EU would act swiftly to put the classification into effect, describing it as a powerful political message that mirrored the extent of repression within Iran."The next phase will involve fast-tracking the process to make the listing legally binding," Wadephul emphasized, adding that the EU stood "shoulder to shoulder with the Iranian people" in opposing repression.Wadephul accused the IRGC and its affiliated forces of responding to protesters with extreme violence, committing human rights abuses, and playing a destabilizing role throughout the Middle East.As of Thursday, a monitoring organization had recorded 6,373 confirmed deaths, with an extra 17,091 fatalities pending verification.The group also pointed to persistent detentions, limited restoration of internet access, and ongoing economic and social repercussions, noting that arrests and security measures had entered what it termed a "post-crackdown phase."According to reports, EU foreign ministers also greenlit new human rights sanctions targeting Iranian "individuals and entities" connected to the suppression of protests.Those facing sanctions include Iran’s interior minister, senior IRGC commanders, police chiefs, revolutionary court judges, and cyber officials engaged in censorship and surveillance.Reuters noted that some of these individuals and entities will also be sanctioned for "providing support" to Russia.In April 2019, the U.S. designated the IRGC a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Canada followed suit in June 2024, and Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have similarly labeled the IRGC a terrorist group.Advocacy group United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) hailed the EU’s move and urged swift implementation, calling on the U.K. to follow suit."UANI commends the EU for announcing its intention to designate the IRGC—the Islamic Republic’s ideological army—as a terrorist organization," the group said in a statement."We now urge the United Kingdom to proscribe the IRGC, following the lead of the EU, the United States, Canada, and Australia. The IRGC must be denied the ability to operate with impunity abroad."In response to the news, Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf criticized the EU's designation."The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is one of the strongest and most effective anti-terrorism forces in the world; only those who stand on the side of terrorists themselves could deny the IRGC's record in the fight against terrorism," he said in a post on X.
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17 Years Later, A Horror Legend Goes Back to His Deliriously Gory Roots
20th Century StudiosSam Raimi is the last person on Earth you'd expect to be faint - hearted. The director of such wild - eyed horror tales as and Drag Me to Hell has spent years perfecting his own style of horror - comedy. However, Raimi tells Inverse that the genre still makes him nervous.“I still can't handle them,” he confesses with a bashful smile. “I'm very sensitive to them... I'm like the timid kid who likes to scare others but is actually petrified himself.”You'd never guess it by looking at his filmography, especially his latest movie, , which seems like a true comeback to the genre and tone that fans adore Raimi for. The director reunites with Doctor Strange's Rachel McAdams for a variation on a classic concept: What if you were stuck on a deserted island with the most awful person? McAdams plays Linda Liddle, the meek employee who was the target of every joke at a flashy Fortune 500 company. On an unknown island in the Gulf of Thailand, though, her excellent survival skills make her essential to Bradley Preston (Dylan O’Brien), the boss who previously intended to fire her immediately.Raimi and his team worked hard to distinguish Send Help from other desert - island thrillers. | 20th Century StudiosSend Help quickly focuses on the kind of change in fortune that many similar films have already explored. Raimi was well aware of any possible points of comparison. When he first read the film pitch written by Damian Shannon and Mark Swift, it directly mentioned and Cast Away.“I love both movies. They're clearly both classics and masterpieces,” Raimi says. “But I made it a rule not only to avoid watching them again but also, when I noticed similarities, to try a different approach. I didn't really like working like that, but they're such great classics that I had no choice.”Raimi's art department took a somewhat different approach, especially when filming the plane crash that strands Linda and Bradley on their island prison. “We watched every imaginable plane - crash scene,” says Zainab Azizi, Raimi's long - time producer. “It was terrifying, but we wanted to ensure ours was very unique and distinct.”Send Help is a return to the gory style Raimi is most famous for, but he “still can't handle” that kind of horror movie. | 20th Century StudiosRegardless of the technique, Raimi's signature touch is unmistakable. Send Help feels like a new take on an old formula because of his involvement. It's great to see the director back in his element, even if he's squeamish behind the camera. But fans are also wondering if Raimi has his sights set on another well - known genre: the superhero movie. Raimi created one of the most beloved superhero trilogies of all time with the Spider - Man films and seems eager to explore more of the genre after 2022’s . Instead of returning to Marvel's Cinematic Universe, though, Raimi seems more interested in Marvel's toughest competitor.“I think many of those DC characters are amazing, just like the Marvel characters,” Raimi reveals. “I think any story they have that has a real character arc - something I can understand, the development, the transformation, the actions of the hero and the villain - I'd love to work on. It's really that simple. If I had a well - written character story, I think you could make a really good movie.”Raimi's interest in DC makes a lot of sense, as he once attempted to... With the DC Universe under new management and at least... in the works, the chances of Raimi taking on the character are slim. Still, any DC film directed by Raimi would be fascinating. If Send Help proves anything, it's that the world needs more from the filmmaker.Send Help is now showing in theaters.
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Netflix Has Quietly Dropped the Year’s First Great Anime
NetflixAfter years of worrying about AI risks, online mental fatigue, and streaming’s built-in exploitation, it’s refreshing to enter a world that highlights the positives of all three. That’s exactly what Netflix’s Cosmic Princess Kaguya! excels at: an anime that reimagines an old legend in a cyberpunk future, with an unshakably hopeful take on virtual reality.Loosely inspired by the , Cosmic Princess Kaguya! reworks the into a cheerful tribute to streamers, Japanese VTubers, and anyone who’s lost hours in a deeply immersive game. Its focus is niche and its pacing is busy, but you don’t need to be glued to the internet to connect with its appeal. Cosmic Princess is, in many ways, a wish-fulfillment story. It’s easy to feel for Iroha Sakayori (voiced by Anna Nagase), the film’s overworked protagonist who’s lived alone since moving to the city on a high school scholarship. Once a piano prodigy, her overbearing mother crushed her passion for music. Now, she balances part-time jobs to stay at the top of her class, eating bland meals to make rent. Any free time not spent studying or working goes to Tsukuyomi—a virtual world where players can be anyone they want. Even there, she stays on the sidelines, quietly admiring AI pop star Yachiyo (Saori Hayami)—until Kaguya (Yūko Natsuyoshi) enters her life.One night, walking home from work, Iroha finds a baby sleeping in a glowing bamboo stalk. Concerned for its safety, she takes it to her tiny apartment—and in just a few days, it grows into an energetic teen. Since the girl says she’s from the moon, like the princess in the Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, Iroha names her Kaguya. Kaguya quickly disrupts Iroha’s rigid routine: while alone, she hacks Iroha’s computer and uses all her savings to buy VR contact lenses. She’s a coding genius, and she discovers even more skills when she first logs into Tsukuyomi.Cosmic Princess is a bit like an isekai for VTubers. | NetflixNeeding to find a way to support herself, Kaguya decides to become a streamer. Yachiyo is running a contest: the person who gains the most followers in a set time gets to perform on stage with her. Even though she’s only about 10 days old, Kaguya signs up eagerly—and takes to streaming naturally. Cosmic Princess is most vibrant when it shows Kaguya trying out different streamer microgenres, mastering new games, and winning fans. But its strongest moments come when Kaguya’s chaotic journey finally gets Iroha to let go of stress and start truly living. Iroha lets Kaguya use old songs she wrote to boost her Tsukuyomi profile, but she’s hesitant to create anything new. Everyone can tell she’s holding back from her true passion, too caught up in surviving her harsh daily life to flourish. Iroha finally sees this herself only when her body breaks down and she has to turn to Kaguya for help. The heartfelt moments between the two girls—both in Tsukuyomi and the real world—are Cosmic Princess’ finest. Kaguya softens Iroha, pushing her to embrace her playful side, while Iroha gives the moon princess a purpose to focus on.The realm of Tsukuyomi is intoxicating, but it’s not replacing the real world. | NetflixThese are the moments that truly feel like wish fulfillment. It’s fun to watch these e-girls battle in gladiator-style matches with absurdly large hammers, or go up against their biggest rivals, Black onyX—whose leader (Miyu Irino) wears an unnecessarily sexy outfit. The film’s visuals are also impressive: it’s the first feature from Shingo Yamashita, the creator of the wild opening sequences for Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen. He brings Tsukuyomi to life with bright, glowing visuals, but most importantly, he puts characters first. Cosmic Princess is an escapist fantasy—an isekai of sorts for anyone who’s lost time customizing characters in games. But it makes a smart choice by balancing the real world and the fantasy. Its take on the original legend is loose, making this a more chaotic retelling, but a touch of chaos only adds to the story’s allure.Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is streaming on Netflix.
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Iran to Conduct Live-Fire Drills in Strait of Hormuz With US Armada in Middle East
Iran is set to hold live-fire military exercises next week in the Strait of Hormuz following President ’s announcement that a U.S. armada was en route to the region amid rising tensions with Tehran.Iranian state media reported Thursday that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ naval forces will execute the drills.This announcement came one day after Trump stated a sizable naval force—led by the —was moving toward Iran.In a Truth Social post, the president cautioned Tehran to swiftly rejoin nuclear program negotiations, noting the fleet was prepared to act with "speed and violence" if necessary."Time is running out, it is truly of the essence! As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn’t, and there was ‘Operation Midnight Hammer,’ a major destruction of Iran," he wrote. "The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again."In June, the targeted Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites using B-2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles.Bombers flew nonstop for 37 hours from Missouri’s Whiteman Air Force Base to drop 12 GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators on Fordow and two on Natanz.A U.S. submarine also launched more than two dozen cruise missiles at Isfahan.Trump is weighing military action against Tehran amid international scrutiny over the Islamic regime’s crackdown— which has killed thousands of anti-government protesters—as .Last week, Iran warned it would respond "with everything we have" to any new U.S. military attack, accusing Washington and its allies of exploiting recent unrest to push the region toward a wider war."As Iranians grieve their loved ones and rebuild what has been destroyed, another threat looms: the final failure of diplomacy. Unlike the restraint Iran showed in June 2025, our powerful armed forces have no qualms about firing back with everything we have if we come under renewed attack," Iran’s foreign minister, ,.
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The Year’s Strangest Heist Thriller Is an Unexpectedly Robust Satire
MRC II Distribution Company L.P.Natalie Portman embodies camp. This is something the actress's harshest critics — and even some of her devoted fans — appear to overlook, yet it's essential to appreciating her performances. Portman earned an Oscar playing a drug-addled ballerina. If you enjoy the Star Wars prequels, claiming "it's camp!" is a frequent defense for that preference. May December? Vox Lux? Jackie? Pure camp. Admittedly, that balancing act doesn't always succeed, but with a film like The Gallerist, it becomes a crucial element of a broader, more eccentric whole. The film nearly fails without it; attendees of its Sundance debut might insist it fails completely. For viewers on the correct wavelength, though, it promises considerable enjoyment.The Gallerist represents the newest offering from director Cathy Yan, previously at the helm of the gonzo Harley Quinn centerpiece . While this latest work is noticeably more polished and far more restrained than Yan's comic book venture, it retains that same offbeat energy — it simply requires some patience to fully reveal itself.Portman portrays Polina Polinski, a high-strung diva sporting an eggshell-white bob and a deep-seated desire to leave her imprint on the art scene. Following an acrimonious divorce from her former spouse (Sterling K. Brown), Polina invests her settlement into transforming a former Jiffy Lube into an immaculate gallery. Her debut show, scheduled to coincide with Miami's Art Basel, centers on the "unproven" Stella Burgess (Da'Vine Joy Randolph) and her Western-themed collection. The phenomenon of white women elevating Black artists for cultural capital certainly applies to her approach here — and art influencer Dalton Hardberry (Zach Galifianakis) appears to be the sole voice courageous enough to point it out. This is partly because Dalton is intimately familiar with Polina: he knew her before she reinvented herself as an arbiter of refined taste, and he professes to see straight through her veneer. Polina may possess integrity, a quality she aims to demonstrate by championing "a genuine outsider" like Stella, but she lacks courage, according to Dalton. She has no authentic artistic vision.Then Dalton loses his footing on a wet spot and falls onto "Daddy's Shears," a ridiculously oversized, perilously sharp replica of the "emasculators" employed for cattle castration. With the gallery opening mere minutes away, Polina lacks the time to conceal the corpse or even contact authorities. Instead, her thoughts turn to numerous corpses depicted artistically in classical artworks: Dante and Virgil. The Nightmare by Henry Fuseli. Pietá. She arranges Dalton's body in the most ornate manner possible and declares it art, greatly distressing her nervous assistant Kiki (Jenna Ortega). Within sixty minutes, the gallery becomes a viral sensation — but as Dalton's remains begin to deteriorate rapidly, Polina's newfound notoriety will inevitably turn rancid.The Gallerist requires massive suspension of disbelief from the outset. Despite a brief 88-minute runtime, The Gallerist feels considerably lengthier; paradoxically, however, the narrative moves more fluidly as complexities accumulate. Yan, who co-authored the script with James Pedersen, maintains engagement through constant juggling of multiple elements. While Polina attempts to satisfy her artist (she has radically altered the significance of her principal work), control the throngs now filling the gallery, and secretly eliminate a dead body, Yan's camera glides through the location at unconventional angles. Recurring jokes contribute to both escalating suspense and the story's comedic absurdity: When Polina and Kiki vanish into the restroom for what seems like the umpteenth time to review their scheme, one cannot help but be somewhat amused.It's fortunate that Portman and Ortega aren't the only cast members attuned to Yan's brand of absurdity. Catherine Zeta-Jones nearly hijacks the entire production as Marianne, a macabre art dealer who convinces Polina that "Daddy's Shears" could fetch a fortune at auction. Additionally, there's Daniel Bruhl, a legacy child frantic to establish his credibility as a legitimate art connoisseur, who emerges as an ideal (and hilariously funny) dupe. Charli xcx makes a brief appearance as one of the rare individuals who recognizes Polina's stunt for what it truly is. Meanwhile, Randolph and Brown provide The Gallerist with stability by challenging Polina's purported integrity.This supposedly "serious" scrutiny of the art sphere doesn't entirely mesh with all the satire and physical comedy. It remains somewhat ambiguous whether The Gallerist aspires to be a ridiculous caper or a profound industry critique. The film addresses most of its own questions as if they were rhetorical, including those that might resolve one or two narrative gaps. Nevertheless, it's difficult not to find it endearing, imperfections and all. The Gallerist encompasses many qualities: a theatrical, confined display, an atmosphere-driven behind-the-scenes tragicomedy... Its merit depends on individual perspective, but it deserves more than outright rejection.The Gallerist debuted on January 24 at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. The film is presently looking for distribution.
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UK election candidate convicted for plotting attacks on consulate and church
A Muslim activist, previously imprisoned for involvement in a foreign terrorist conspiracy, is now campaigning for a council seat in Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, as elections draw near against a backdrop of increased community tensions.In 1999, a Yemeni court convicted Shahid Butt and handed him a five-year prison term for establishing an armed group and plotting to attack the British consulate in Aden, an Anglican church, and a Swiss-owned hotel in Yemen. Yemeni prosecutors stated at the time that the cell had been dispatched by the extremist preacher Abu Hamza, who was the father of one of the other convicted individuals.He is now a candidate for the recently established Independent Candidates Alliance in the Birmingham City Council elections scheduled for May 7.Butt asserts his innocence, alleging that his confession was extracted under torture and that incriminating evidence was fabricated, as reported by The Daily Telegraph.He is running in the Sparkhill ward, a district where close to two-thirds of the population is of Pakistani heritage, according to census data.His decision to stand for election occurs as Birmingham, which hosts one of Britain's biggest Muslim communities, experiences renewed friction concerning the Gaza conflict, identity politics, and public safety. These strains were highlighted last November during a Europa Conference League match between Aston Villa and the Israeli team Maccabi Tel Aviv.Prior to the game, Butt appealed on social media for Muslims nationwide to converge on Birmingham to demonstrate solidarity and to stop, in his words, the Israeli team's supporters from "desecrating" and "dirtying" the city. In one social media post, he labeled the visiting fans "IDF babykillers," according to media reports.Citing security risks following the organization of large protests, authorities ultimately barred the Israeli club's supporters from attending the match.In a video from a protest related to the game, Butt made remarks that critics argue went beyond political discourse to advocate violence. "Muslims are not pacifists," Butt stated. "If somebody comes into your face, you knock his teeth out — that’s my message to the youth."Emma Schubart, a researcher at the Henry Jackson Society, said these events point to more profound divisions in British society. "Shahid Butt, a convicted terrorist, is standing for election in a ward that is around 80% Muslim. Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were banned from the second-largest city in the U.K. which is now nearly a third Muslim," Schubart noted."Politically," she continued, "These events foreshadow a likely Muslim sectarian sweep in the local elections, since candidates like Butt are poised to erode Labour’s hold on seats throughout Birmingham."The Independent Candidates Alliance was established by activists Akhmed Yakoob and Shakeel Afsar, who both campaigned unsuccessfully in Birmingham constituencies during the 2024 general election, focusing on a pro-Gaza agenda. The alliance plans to run candidates in approximately 20 wards across Birmingham.
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Iran responds to Trump pressure with a retaliation warning: ‘Fingers on the trigger’
As President Donald Trump pressures to strike a nuclear deal, the Islamic Republic’s foreign minister warned that the nation’s military is ready to retaliate against any possible "aggression.""Our brave Armed Forces are prepared — with their fingers on the trigger — to immediately and powerfully respond to ANY aggression against our beloved land, air, and sea. The valuable lessons learned from the 12-Day War have enabled us to respond even more strongly, rapidly, and profoundly," Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned in a Wednesday He claimed that Iran is open to a deal and has never attempted to obtain ."At the same time, Iran has always welcomed a mutually beneficial, fair and equitable NUCLEAR DEAL — on equal footing, and free from coercion, threats, and intimidation — which ensures Iran's rights to PEACEFUL nuclear technology, and guarantees NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS. Such weapons have no place in our security calculations, and we have NEVER sought to acquire them," Araghchi alleged.In a Wednesday Truth Social post, Iran that "time is running out" as U.S. warships move to the Middle East."A massive Armada is heading to Iran. It is moving quickly, with great power, enthusiasm, and purpose. It is a larger fleet, headed by the great Aircraft Carrier Abraham Lincoln, than that sent to Venezuela. Like with Venezuela, it is, ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary. Hopefully, Iran will quickly 'Come to the Table' and negotiate a fair and equitable deal — NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS — one that is good for all parties. Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!" the president warned."As I told Iran once before, MAKE A DEAL! They didn’t, and there was ‘Operation Midnight Hammer,’ a major destruction of Iran. The next attack will be far worse! Don’t make that happen again. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" he added.Iran’s mission to the United Nations responded in a post on X."Last time the U.S. blundered into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it squandered over $7 trillion and lost more than 7,000 American lives. Iran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests — BUT IF PUSHED, IT WILL DEFEND ITSELF AND RESPOND LIKE NEVER BEFORE!" the mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the UN asserted in the .
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Formerra to Supply Foster Medical Compounds in Europe
PUTNAM, CT AND ROMEOVILLE, IL, Jan 29, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Formerra and GEON® Performance Solutions today announced an agreement that designates Formerra as the preferred distributor of Foster®, LLC medical compounds in Europe. This adds to Formerra's current distribution of these materials in North and South America, enabling Formerra to now support customers who need the same product in all regions.Following GEON's January 2025 acquisition of Foster, the agreement builds on Formerra's long-standing, global partnership with GEON for flexible and rigid PVC and filled polypropylene materials."Bringing Foster's medical-grade portfolio to Europe strengthens our ability to support healthcare manufacturers across the region with specialized compounds and the local expertise they need to navigate complex regulatory environments," said Kelly Wessner, Vice President, Key Accounts, Formerra. "Building on the momentum of our Americas partnership, we're excited to extend these proven solutions to European customers who demand the highest standards in medical device materials."With more than 30 years in custom medical polymer compounding, Foster delivers highly engineered, top-of-the-polymer-pyramid formulations tailored to demanding requirements. The portfolio includes options such as radiopaque compounds and grades that meet USP Class VI requirements and align with ISO 10993 expectations. These materials support critical end uses across the healthcare space, including implantable products and other highly specialized applications."Extending our Foster portfolio into Europe with Formerra allows us to meet growing demand from healthcare manufacturers in one of the world's most dynamic medical device markets," said Arthur Adams, Chief Commercial Officer, GEON. "This expansion reinforces our shared commitment to supporting innovation in life-saving applications globally."Adding Foster® compounds to its European portfolio will enable Formerra to better serve customers in the healthcare space, offering not only access to highly engineered medical polymers, but also deep regulatory expertise and responsive logistics across the region.Formerra will exhibit at MD&M West in Booth 2266 in Anaheim, California, February 3-5, 2026.Key DetailsFormerra will distribute Foster® medical compounds in Europe.This agreement adds custom medical-grade compounds to Formerra's existing global access to GEON® PVC and filled PP materials.About FormerraFormerra is a preeminent distributor of engineered materials, connecting the world's leading polymer producers with thousands of OEMs and brand owners across healthcare, consumer, industrial, and mobility markets. Powered by technical and commercial expertise, it brings a distinctive combination of portfolio depth, supply chain strength, industry knowledge, service, leading e-commerce capabilities, and ingenuity. The experienced Formerra team helps customers across multiple industries to design, select, process, and develop products in new and better ways - driving improved performance, productivity, reliability, and sustainability. To learn more, visit www.formerra.com.About GEON Performance SolutionsGEON® Performance Solutions unlocks the power of polymers for the future. From biomedical materials from our medical division, Foster, LLC, to building materials, automotive, connectivity, and appliances, customers in these markets rely on the portfolio of compounding solutions, highly adaptable vinyl, polyolefin, engineered resin technologies, and full-service contract manufacturing that we deliver. In every formulation, collaboration, and challenge we're shaping the brilliance of tomorrow and providing a formidable advantage by engineering what's possible. Geon has approximately 1,200 global associates and 15 world-class manufacturing plants with headquarters in Westlake, Ohio. Learn more at www.geon.com. Geon is a portfolio company of SK Capital Partners.Media ContactJackie MorrisMarketing Communications Manager, Formerrajackie.morris@formerra.com+1 630-972-3144SOURCE: Formerra Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: emer
Bioxytran Provides Corporate Update Highlighting Momentum Across Its Multi-Platform Pipeline
Company reiterates focus on advancing ProLectin‑M under an active FDA IND and progressing oxygen-transport programs for stroke and neurodegenerative diseasesNEEDHAM, MASS., Jan 29, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) — Bioxytran, Inc. (OTCQB: BIXT) (“Bioxytran” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing platform technologies spanning glycovirology, hypoxia, and degenerative diseases, today issued a corporate update summarizing previously disclosed program developments and reinforcing the Company’s strategic direction entering 2026. (BioXyTran)Corporate Update Highlights (Previously Disclosed)ProLectin‑M (broad-spectrum antiviral platform)Bioxytran’s lead antiviral program, ProLectin‑M, is being developed under an active U.S. FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) framework, as previously announced by the Company. In October 2025, the Company announced the completion of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial for ProLectin‑M and stated that data from the trial is expected to help inform Phase 3 trial design and be submitted to regulators pursuant to prior regulatory interactions. (BioXyTran)In May 2025, Bioxytran also announced completion of dose optimization work intended to support additional clinical trial planning and agency submissions. Oxygen transport platform (stroke and neurodegenerative diseases)Bioxytran continues to advance its oxygen-transport platform, including development efforts related to a universal oxygen carrier (UOC) and associated measurement/analytical approaches previously described by the Company, including use of the MDX Viewer, which the Company has described as an FDA-approved device to measure tissue oxygenation. In July 2024, Bioxytran announced a joint venture with the Heme Foundation to develop a universal oxygen carrier as an alternative to blood transfusions, including public statements regarding a pledged level of support and reported development progress at that time. Oncology research (Galectin Science)In January 2025, the Company announced a cancer-focused preprint exploring galectin‑3 modulation as a potential strategy to improve response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. (Nasdaq)Management Commentary“Bioxytran enters 2026 with real momentum across our platforms,” said David Platt, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Bioxytran. “Across virology and oxygen transport, our team has stayed focused on disciplined execution—building the data package, advancing the regulatory pathway, and expanding the scientific foundation that supports our programs. We believe our carbohydrate-based approach and galectin science position Bioxytran to pursue meaningful clinical and strategic opportunities as we continue to move forward.” Disclosure NoteThis release is intended as a general corporate update and summarizes information that has been previously disclosed in Company press releases and public filings.About Bioxytran, Inc.Bioxytran is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing platform technologies in glycovirology, hypoxia and degenerative diseases using carbohydrate drug design, including programs that leverage galectin inhibition and programs that aim to address hypoxic conditions and tissue oxygenation. Bioxytran’s common stock trades on the OTCQB under the symbol BIXT.Company Contact:Bioxytran, Inc.75 Second Avenue, Ste 605, Needham, MA 02494Phone: 617‑454‑1199Email: info@bioxytraninc.com Web: www.bioxytraninc.com Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding anticipated regulatory interactions, future clinical trials, trial designs, timing of data submission and publication, and potential therapeutic and commercial opportunities. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Readers are urged to review the Company’s risk factors disclosed in its reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10‑K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: nicole
China executes 11 convicted in fraud crackdown
11 individuals convicted of intentional homicide, fraud, and other offenses tied to a transnational fraud scheme were executed after the nation's highest court approved their death sentences, officials said Thursday. The notice was published on the website of the Supreme People's Procuratorate, China's top state organ overseeing criminal prosecution and supervision. The executions followed a ruling and execution order from the Supreme People's Court, which affirmed lower-court judgments against members of the so-called Ming family criminal syndicate. They stood accused of operating large-scale fraud and gambling enterprises from northern Myanmar that handled more than 10 billion yuan, about $1.4 billion. Authorities said the syndicate conspired with criminal groups led by "financial backers" to manage illegal casinos, narcotics trafficking, and prostitution activities. "The Ming family criminal group also colluded with the online fraud criminal group of Wu Hongming and others to deliberately kill, intentionally injure, and illegally detain people involved in fraud, resulting in the death of 14 Chinese citizens and injuries to many others," the Supreme People's Procuratorate said. Ming Guoping, Ming Zhenzhen, Zhou Weichang, Wu Hongming, Wu Senlong, and Fu Yubin were among those sentenced to death in September by the Wenzhou Intermediate People's Court of Zhejiang Province. The Zhejiang Higher People's Court on Nov. 25 rejected the appeal, upheld the original verdict and submitted the case to the Supreme People's Court for mandatory review. Authorities said the prisoners were allowed to meet with close relatives before the executions were carried out.
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by: amanda
LEGENDARY HUMANITY, Listed on Gate.io, Launches RWA Market for Contemporary Artist Mago Nagasaka
In Collaboration with MAGO Moon Museum, Opening the “$VIVI RWA MARKET” Singapore – January 29, 2026 – (SeaPRwire) – LEGENDARY HUMANITY, a Singapore-based company listed on Gate.io, has announced the launch of the “$VIVI RWA MARKET,” a new Real World Asset (RWA) marketplace enabling the purchase of exhibited works by contemporary artist Mago Nagasaka. Developed in collaboration with the MAGO Moon Museum, this launch marks a significant milestone in LEGENDARY HUMANITY’s ongoing efforts to bridge cultural value and digital infrastructure through real-world assetization. Digitalizing Humanity’s Masterpieces Through AI 3D Scanning Technology – A New Purchasing Experience Led by LEGENDARY HUMANITY LEGENDARY HUMANITY PTE. LTD. (Headquarters: Singapore; CEO: Takamasa Suzuki) has officially opened the “$VIVI RWA MARKET,” an RWA marketplace where visitors can directly purchase artworks exhibited in the online museum “MAGO Moon Museum,” created by contemporary artist Shingo Nagasaka. This initiative forms part of the “VIVI PROJECT,” which aims to digitize humanity’s masterpieces into digital assets through high-precision, non-contact AI-integrated 3D scanning technology. Through this platform, visitors are able to acquire artworks they have viewed within MAGO Moon Museum as RWAs, enabling a deeper engagement with the artist’s worldview and creative philosophy. Overview Name: $VIVI RWA MARKET Opening Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026 URL: https://mondo.lhvivi.io/ About “$VIVI RWA MARKET” The “$VIVI RWA MARKET” is an RWA marketplace dedicated to the acquisition of artworks and is embedded within the online museum MAGO Moon Museum. Seamless Pathway from Viewing to Purchase Users can seamlessly transition from an artwork’s exhibition page to its corresponding RWA product page, creating a unified experience from online viewing to ownership. Integration of Physical and Digital Asset Design Each artwork includes the following structured information: Physical artwork details (size, materials, condition, provenance) High-resolution digital data generated through AI 3D scanning Artist profile and project background information along with other curated metadata. This structure allows users to acquire artworks with a proper understanding of their cultural and artistic value. Ecosystem Holding Functionality Acquired works will gradually gain viewing and management functionality within the VIVI ecosystem. While future integration with VIVI COiN is under consideration, the current initiative is focused solely on enhancing the preservation, appreciation, and understanding of the artworks. About LEGENDARY HUMANITY and the VIVI PROJECT LEGENDARY HUMANITY promotes the “VIVI PROJECT,” which digitizes legendary masterpieces created by humanity into digital assets using high-precision, non-contact, AI-integrated 3D scanning technology. The project operates under the vision of “Bringing the beauty of humanity to AI and the future.” Targeted assets include: Legendary fashion collections Historical architecture and cultural masterpieces Famous trading cards Artworks, including those exhibited at MAGO Moon Museum and other assets that can be described as humanity’s masterpieces. The VIVI PROJECT aims to: Digitize assets as digital cultural heritage Tokenize them as RWAs for global circulation Exhibit them in both online and physical museums thereby building new infrastructure that harmonizes cultural and economic value. NEXT SOCIETY (Gacha Location): https://nextsociety.lhvivi.io RWA Market Roadmap The launch of the “$VIVI RWA MARKET” represents the first phase of RWA market functionality within the VIVI PROJECT. Planned future developments include: VIVI FASHION (RWA for the fashion domain) VIVI TRADING CARD (RWA for the trading card domain) VIVI ART WORK (RWA for art collections) with future integration under consideration. About MAGO Moon Museum MAGO Moon Museum is an online museum created by contemporary artist Shingo Nagasaka, whose works explore themes related to electronic waste issues in Agbogbloshie, Ghana. The museum provides an online space to view Nagasaka’s representative works, including pieces created from discarded electronic components found in Ghanaian slums, as well as series examining the concept of “Sustainable Capitalism.” With the implementation of the “$VIVI RWA MARKET,” viewers can deepen their understanding of the artworks while acquiring pieces aligned with the artist’s philosophy in an appropriate and structured manner. Future Developments Building on this initiative, LEGENDARY HUMANITY plans to: Expand collaborations with masterpieces across different regions and genres Strengthen international networks with artists, collectors, and researchers Advance technological development for the preservation of cultural assets for future generations and continue developing as a platform that passes humanity’s masterpieces into the future through real-world assets. Media Contact Company Name: LEGENDARY HUMANITY PTE. LTD. Address: 105 Cecil St, The Octagon 24F-2, Singapore 06953 Representative: Takamasa Suzuki, LEGENDARY HUMANITY / VIVI PROJECT Public Relations Desk Email: info@lhvivi.com Related URL: $VIVI RWA MARKET https://mondo.lhvivi.io
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by: nicole
Trump Threatens to End U.S. Support for Iraq Over al-Maliki’s Iran-Linked Comeback Bid
President Donald Trump urged Iraqis on Tuesday not to reinstate controversial former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki for a new term, citing his and severe mismanagement of the country’s economy and security situation.Trump posted on the : "I’m hearing that the Great Country of Iraq might make a very bad choice by reinstalling Nouri al-Maliki as Prime Minister. Last time Maliki was in power, the Country descended into poverty and total chaos. That should not be allowed to happen again. Because of his insane policies and ideologies, if elected, the United States of America will no longer help Iraq and, if we are not there to help, Iraq has ZERO chance of Success, Prosperity, or Freedom. MAKE IRAQ GREAT AGAIN!" A parliamentary session scheduled for Tuesday to elect a president—who would then appoint the prime minister—was called off due to a lack of quorum.Al-Maliki retaliated against Trump on Wednesday, stating: "We reject the blatant American interference in Iraq’s internal affairs and consider it a violation of its sovereignty."The Trump administration strongly opposes al-Maliki’s efforts to secure a third term because of his close ties to — a state-sponsor of terrorism, according to the U.S. State Department.Al-Maliki’s prior premiership (2006 to 2014) was marred by sectarian violence, including reports that he failed to form an inclusive government that did not discriminate against Iraqi Kurds and Sunni Muslims in favor of Shiite Muslims.Secretary of State told caretaker Prime Minister al-Sudani on Sunday that the U.S. was worried about a pro-Iran government seizing control of Iraq."The Secretary emphasized that a government controlled by Iran cannot successfully put Iraq’s own interests first, keep Iraq out of regional conflicts, or advance the mutually beneficial partnership between the United States and Iraq," said U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.Al-Maliki left office after his second term in 2014, following the Obama administration’s growing frustration with his security failures that allowed the Islamic State to rise that same year across large parts of Iraq and Syria. Al-Sudani won the most seats in November’s parliamentary elections but withdrew his candidacy this month. The 75-year-old al-Maliki, a member of the Shiite Islamist Dawa Party, entered the political race and gained backing from the Coordination Framework—a coalition of Shia parties that is the largest parliamentary bloc.Entifadh Qanbar, a former spokesman for Iraq’s deputy prime minister, told Digital that "Iran has exercised tremendous influence over Iraq. personally ‘blessed’ Nouri al-Maliki’s nomination. Even if Maliki is ultimately dropped, Iran will simply nominate another candidate who is secretly acceptable to Washington. That individual may even be given leeway to say the right things publicly in order to appease the U.S., while remaining fully aligned with Tehran behind the scenes."Qanbar, who worked as a civil engineer in Iraq, added: "As for the Iraqi elections, the process itself has been systematically engineered to ensure that Iran’s proxies win without meaningful resistance. These elections are not contests between Iranian-backed factions and genuine alternatives; rather, they are mechanisms to divide votes among groups already approved by Iran. Any real dissent has been banned, imprisoned, or eliminated."He noted: "I have often used the analogy that Iraqi elections resemble a soccer match with only one goal, no goalkeeper and only one team allowed on the field," and warned: "the United States fails to see these structural manipulations."An Iraqi Kurdish official also echoed the view that Iran has gained greater control of Iraqi power politics. The official told Digital: "Under Sudani’s government, Iran’s proxies have doubled on the state payroll and receive over $3 billion a year. He established the Muhandes company — the PMF’s investment wing, securing public contracts and buying weapons."The Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) is an umbrella organization of Shiite militias loyal to the Islamic Republic of Iran. The PMF wields enormous power in Iraq.The Iraqi Kurdish official said: "Economically, Iran’s oil blending in Basra has been formalized with official state support. Financially, Iraq’s state and private banks have funneled billions in U.S. dollar bills into Iran under Sudani, bringing Tehran critical relief against ."The official added: "Iran, of course, has always been ahead of the curve in Iraq. When the pro-Western candidate Ayad Allawi beat Maliki in the 2010 elections, it was the Americans who handed Maliki a second term — an odd moment of alignment with Iran against their own preferred outcome." He said he hopes the U.S. won't make the same mistake again.
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by: grit
The Executive Centre Celebrates 25 Years in Japan: A Commitment to Long-Term Growth and Investment
TEC Japan marks its 25th anniversary with the recent refurbishment of its inaugural centre at Cerulean Towers.Profitability has tripled over the last two years, attracting significant interest from major tech and financial institutions.TEC Japan boasts an impressive occupancy rate of over 90%, with prime locations fully occupied, reflecting strong demand for premium workspaces.Photo: TEC Cerulean Towers CentreJAPAN, January 29, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The Executive Centre (“TEC”), the leading premium flexible workspace provider in Asia Pacific and the Middle East, proudly commemorates its 25th anniversary in Japan. Since the unveiling of its first centre at Cerulean Towers in 2001, TEC has established itself as a trusted partner in the business community and has expanded to 12 centres in Japan. To celebrate this significant milestone, the company hosted a special event on January 23, 2026, marking the completion of a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance the centre's offerings.Photo: TEC Cerulean Towers Reopening EventThe refurbishment of the Cerulean Tower facility epitomizes TEC’s commitment to long-term investment and reinvestment in its properties. Liam Owens, Regional Director of TEC Japan, stated, “Our legacy in Japan is built on 25 years of trust and reliability, and reflects a long-term commitment to the region. The five projects completed last year—three expansions and two refurbishments—highlight both our growth and our continued reinvestment in existing assets, reinforcing our dedication to long-standing partnerships with clients and landlords.”As TEC looks to the future, the company recognizes the vast potential of the Japanese market, envisioning a strategic expansion beyond Tokyo. “Japan represents not just a city market, but a burgeoning regional opportunity,” added Owens. “Our intent is to position TEC as a leader throughout the country, meeting the diverse needs of businesses across various sectors.”Photo: Liam Owens, Regional Director of TEC JapanIn the past two years, TEC Japan has experienced remarkable growth, tripling its profitability and attracting a wave of interest from leading tech and financial institutions. This surge indicates the wider market's recognition of Japan as an attractive location for business operations. With an overall occupancy rate exceeding 90%, TEC’s prime locations, particularly in the Tokyo Station area, are fully occupied, underscoring strong demand for its premium workspace solutions.As The Executive Centre celebrates its 25th anniversary in Japan, it remains steadfastly committed to innovation and excellence, looking forward to continued growth and service to its clients.About The Executive CentreThe Executive Centre (TEC) is a premium flexible workspace provider that opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and has over 240 Centres in 37 cities across 15 markets.The Executive Centre caters to professionals and industry leaders. TEC has a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to meet the needs of its Members.Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Services, and Meeting & Events facilities to suit its clients’ business needs.www.executivecentre.comPress EnquiriesThe Executive CentrePebble Lee, Pebble_lee@executivecentre.com, +852 3951 9888 Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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by: emer
LEGENDARY HUMANITY, Listed on Gate.io, Launches RWA Market for Contemporary Artist Mago Nagasaka
SINGAPORE, Jan 29, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - LEGENDARY HUMANITY, a Singapore-based company listed on Gate.io, has announced the launch of the "$VIVI RWA MARKET," a new Real World Asset (RWA) marketplace enabling the purchase of exhibited works by contemporary artist Mago Nagasaka. Developed in collaboration with the MAGO Moon Museum, this launch marks a significant milestone in LEGENDARY HUMANITY's ongoing efforts to bridge cultural value and digital infrastructure through real-world assetization.Digitalizing Humanity's Masterpieces Through AI 3D Scanning Technology - A New Purchasing Experience Led by LEGENDARY HUMANITYLEGENDARY HUMANITY PTE. LTD. (Headquarters: Singapore; CEO: Takamasa Suzuki) has officially opened the "$VIVI RWA MARKET," an RWA marketplace where visitors can directly purchase artworks exhibited in the online museum "MAGO Moon Museum," created by contemporary artist Shingo Nagasaka.This initiative forms part of the "VIVI PROJECT," which aims to digitize humanity's masterpieces into digital assets through high-precision, non-contact AI-integrated 3D scanning technology.Through this platform, visitors are able to acquire artworks they have viewed within MAGO Moon Museum as RWAs, enabling a deeper engagement with the artist's worldview and creative philosophy.OverviewName: $VIVI RWA MARKETOpening Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026URL: https://mondo.lhvivi.io/ About "$VIVI RWA MARKET"The "$VIVI RWA MARKET" is an RWA marketplace dedicated to the acquisition of artworks and is embedded within the online museum MAGO Moon Museum.Seamless Pathway from Viewing to PurchaseUsers can seamlessly transition from an artwork's exhibition page to its corresponding RWA product page, creating a unified experience from online viewing to ownership.Integration of Physical and Digital Asset DesignEach artwork includes the following structured information:Physical artwork details (size, materials, condition, provenance)High-resolution digital data generated through AI 3D scanningArtist profile and project background informationalong with other curated metadata.This structure allows users to acquire artworks with a proper understanding of their cultural and artistic value.Ecosystem Holding FunctionalityAcquired works will gradually gain viewing and management functionality within the VIVI ecosystem. While future integration with VIVI COiN is under consideration, the current initiative is focused solely on enhancing the preservation, appreciation, and understanding of the artworks.About LEGENDARY HUMANITY and the VIVI PROJECTLEGENDARY HUMANITY promotes the "VIVI PROJECT," which digitizes legendary masterpieces created by humanity into digital assets using high-precision, non-contact, AI-integrated 3D scanning technology. The project operates under the vision of "Bringing the beauty of humanity to AI and the future."Targeted assets include:Legendary fashion collectionsHistorical architecture and cultural masterpiecesFamous trading cardsArtworks, including those exhibited at MAGO Moon Museumand other assets that can be described as humanity's masterpieces.The VIVI PROJECT aims to:Digitize assets as digital cultural heritageTokenize them as RWAs for global circulationExhibit them in both online and physical museumsthereby building new infrastructure that harmonizes cultural and economic value.NEXT SOCIETY (Gacha Location): https://nextsociety.lhvivi.ioRWA Market RoadmapThe launch of the "$VIVI RWA MARKET" represents the first phase of RWA market functionality within the VIVI PROJECT. Planned future developments include:VIVI FASHION (RWA for the fashion domain)VIVI TRADING CARD (RWA for the trading card domain)VIVI ART WORK (RWA for art collections)with future integration under consideration.About MAGO Moon MuseumMAGO Moon Museum is an online museum created by contemporary artist Shingo Nagasaka, whose works explore themes related to electronic waste issues in Agbogbloshie, Ghana.The museum provides an online space to view Nagasaka's representative works, including pieces created from discarded electronic components found in Ghanaian slums, as well as series examining the concept of "Sustainable Capitalism."With the implementation of the "$VIVI RWA MARKET," viewers can deepen their understanding of the artworks while acquiring pieces aligned with the artist's philosophy in an appropriate and structured manner.Future DevelopmentsBuilding on this initiative, LEGENDARY HUMANITY plans to:Expand collaborations with masterpieces across different regions and genresStrengthen international networks with artists, collectors, and researchersAdvance technological development for the preservation of cultural assets for future generationsand continue developing as a platform that passes humanity's masterpieces into the future through real-world assets.Media ContactCompany Name: LEGENDARY HUMANITY PTE. LTD.Address: 105 Cecil St, The Octagon 24F-2, Singapore 06953Representative: Takamasa Suzuki, LEGENDARY HUMANITY / VIVI PROJECT Public Relations DeskEmail: info@lhvivi.com Related URL: $VIVI RWA MARKET https://mondo.lhvivi.io Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: grit
MAZDA CX-5 Achieves Five Million Units in Global Production and Sales
HIROSHIMA, Japan, Jan 29, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) today announced that cumulative global production and sales of the Mazda CX-5 have both reached five million units as of the end of 2025. This milestone makes the third Mazda model to surpass the five-million-units, following the Mazda323 and the Mazda3. Among Mazda vehicles that fully incorporate the SkyactivTechnology and "Kodo - Soul of Motion", the CX-5 reached this landmark in the shortest time.To date, the CX-5 has been sold in more than 100 countries and regions worldwide. It continues to be chosen by customers across the globe as Mazda's crossover SUV, carrying forward and further refining its vibrant, sporty design and effortless driving experience.Upper section: Left First-generation "CX-5", Right Second-generation "CX-5"Lower section: Third-generation New "CX-5"Since production of the first-generation CX-5 began at the Ujina Plant No.2 in 2011, Mazda has expanded its manufacturing footprint to Ujina Plant No.1, the Hofu Plant*1, and facilities in China. Local assembly *2 has also been carried out in Malaysia and Vietnam, allowing the CX-5 to grow into the best-selling model *3 in Mazda's current lineup. The all-new CX-5 was unveiled in Europe in July 2025. Following its European debut, it will be launched in North America and Japan in spring 2026.Koichiro Yamaguchi, Program Manager for the CX-5, commented: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all customers and fans around the world who have supported the CX-5. The all-new CX-5 has been fully changed in eight years, further refines its sporty design and driving dynamics. It offers a spacious cabin where all passengers can enjoy comfort and ease, along with a redesigned Human-Machine Interface*4. Meticulously focused on daily usability, it has evolved into a new-generation SUV that makes driving more comfortable and life itself richer. We will continue to nurture the CX-5 carefully, aiming for it to be cherished for years to come.”Mazda will continue to pursue the "Joy of Driving" and create cars loved by customers under its core value of Radically Human, and aim to deliver the "Joy of Living" by creating moving mobility experiences in the daily lives of its customers.History of the MAZDA CX-5First-generation of the CX-5September 2011World premiere at the “2011 Frankfurt Motor Show”. *5November 2012Won the Japan Car of the Year award.January 2013Ranked first in domestic SUV sales in Japan for 2012. *6January 2014Ranked first in domestic SUV sales in Japan for 2013. *6April 2015Achieved one million units in cumulative global production.Second-generation of the CX-5November 2016World Premiere at the “Los Angeles Auto Show”.February 2022For the ninth consecutive year, the model earned the highest safety rating, “IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+,” in evaluations conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).Third-generation CX-5July 2025Unveiled in Europe.October 2025The All-new CX-5 was exhibited for the first time to visitors at the “Japan Mobility Show 2025 (European specification vehicle)”. *1 Production is not currently carried out at the Hofu Plant.*2 Changan Mazda Automobile Co., Ltd. (CMA) produces the CX-5 in China. Locally assembled units in Malaysia (Mazda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.) and Vietnam (Vina Mazda Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) are counted as part of domestic production.*3 The bestselling model in Mazda’s product lineup since 2018.*4 It is a generic term referring to a method of exchanging information between humans and machines, as well as the devices and software used for this purpose.*5 The official name is “64th Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung”.*6 According to Mazda. SUVs refer to domestic vehicles classified as off-road 4WD (including some 2WD models) by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
Four Decades Later, Henry Cavill Is Perfectly Suited To Reboot An Overlooked ’80s Fantasy Hero
Amazon MGMConnor MacLeod stands on sacred ground! After years of speculation about a possible Highlander reboot, the immortal swordsman has finally returned, taking the form of none other than Henry Cavill. The new Highlander movie is directed by John Wick creator Chad Stahelski and acts as a revival for a franchise that hasn't had a new entry since 2008. The series began with as Connor MacLeod, a Scottish warrior who can only die by beheading. Four decades ago, that cult classic launched an eccentric, inconsistent franchise with a perpetually contradictory canon, an intriguing fantasy universe, and a centuries-spanning romance.Cavill's portrayal of MacLeod clearly pays tribute to the original film. On his Instagram page, Cavill posted two images of himself in costume, accompanied by the message: “Happy First Look for Highlander! This has been quite the journey for me, which I'll tell you all about when the time is right, but it's a special moment to be able to share this. I hope you enjoy.”Connor appears to be standing on sacred ground in both images, possibly in a temple in the first photo and a church in the second. According to Highlander mythology, Immortals are forbidden from fighting on holy ground, creating a sanctuary when conflicts become too dangerous. (Indeed, the franchise has examined the idea of Immortals who remain permanently on holy ground, with unfortunate results.)While neither image directly replicates a moment from Russell Mulcahy's original movie, the aesthetic indicates that Cavill is evoking Lambert's distinctive portrayal. The photograph of Cavill wearing a trench coat mirrors Lambert's costume, paired with a somewhat unkempt, battle-worn appearance. The second image implies that Connor will once again wield a katana, at least in modern times. In the original film, Connor receives a katana from his mentor, Ramírez (Sean Connery), a role that Russell Crowe will now assume.Christopher Lambert in the original Highlander. | Studio Canal/ShutterstockAs Cavill's Instagram post indicates, there remains little additional information about Highlander at this time. The release date is still unknown, though production commenced in Scotland this January. It's possible that Connor could be clashing blades in cinemas by next year, but for now, Highlander enthusiasts must remain patient and avoid losing their heads.Highlander is available for streaming on Tubi.
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by: jenn
What’s Thaddeus Turning Into in Fallout? All Theories Explained
Amazon Prime VideoWe have to talk about Thaddeus. Maximus’ former friend from The Brotherhood of Steel in started out as nothing more than a comedic side character, but his choice to take a strange yellow “healing potion” sent things down a dark path. In the episodes that followed, we’ve seen him survive an arrow to the neck, develop a wrinkled appearance, grow an odd mouth on his shoulder and—most recently—lose his entire arm. But is he truly just turning into a Ghoul? After all, he still has his nose. Some fans argue he might be transforming into something far rarer—and far more terrifying. Below are all the theories about what his final form could be. Spoiler Alert! Details from Fallout Season 2, Episode 7 ahead.3. GhoulThaddeus thinks he’s going to become a ghoul, but he still has his nose. | Amazon Prime VideoThis is the most straightforward possibility. We’ve seen what Ghouls look like thanks to Cooper Howard and Thaddeus’ group of child workers, and Thaddeus seems to be well on his way there. He even believes this theory himself. “I’m guessing you already know, but I’m pretty new to this whole ghoul thing,” he tells the Ghoul in Season 2, Episode 7. “Still have my nose. That’s the worst part, honestly—just waiting for it to drop off.” He then shows off the mouth growing on his side, but the Ghoul clearly doesn’t see this as normal. So while Thaddeus being a Ghoul makes the most sense, plenty of clues point to a different outcome entirely. 2. Super-Mutant Many fans think Thaddeus’s “health potion” was really F.E.V. | Amazon Prime VideoMany fans quickly noticed parallels between the potion Thaddeus drank and , the artificial virus that creates Super-Mutants—creatures present in every Fallout game but absent from the series until Season 2, which featured a brief cameo from . Could Thaddeus be mutating into a different kind of mutant altogether, not a Ghoul? That would certainly explain his unusual mutations—like losing entire limbs before his nose falls off, which is supposed to be one of the earliest stages of change. 3. CentaurMight Thaddeus be the first live-action centaur? | BethesdaThis theory builds on the previous one—humans exposed to F.E.V. become mutants, but when humans and animals are tossed into F.E.V. vats, they become “centaurs”: bizarre hybrid beasts with misshapen legs (or even arms used as legs) and no arms at all. The biggest clue here is clear: Thaddeus loses his arm in Season 2, Episode 7, which isn’t typical of any “standard” mutation. But if centaurs are made by mixing humans and animals in F.E.V., how could Thaddeus become one? The leading theory is that the potion Thaddeus took wasn’t just F.E.V.—it was F.E.V. already infused with other creatures’ DNA. That’s the risk of buying strange stuff from shady dealers: you never know what you’re getting. Fallout is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.
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by: jenn
The Creator of Saw Discloses How to Rectify the Franchise’s Greatest Shortcoming
Michael Buckner/Variety/Getty ImagesThe Saw franchise has long been known for being intense, gory, and generally difficult to watch. Still, audiences keep coming back to see [something seems missing here] punish his victims. However, as the movies have changed directors and the story has taken numerous unlikely twists and turns, the essence of the Saw movies has deviated from its starting point. Now, the franchise's co - creator is involved again for the first time in 20 years, and he has talked about how he plans to bring the franchise back to its fundamentals. James Wan is perhaps best known today for his work on the Aquaman and Insidious movies, but he began his career co - directing Saw with Leigh Whannell in 2004. He returned to co - write Saw III in 2026, but otherwise, he has largely been uninvolved in the movie's sequels. That is about to change now that Blumhouse Productions has bought Twisted Pictures’ [something seems missing here].Leigh Whannell and James Wan are returning to the franchise they created. | Carolyn Contino/BEI/ShutterstockHow will this impact future Saw movies? It's no secret that the franchise has struggled in recent years, and a proposed script for a movie centered on healthcare industry bigwigs never made it out of the development stage. James Wan may have a solution. In an interview with , he explained how he views the motivations of the franchise villain Jigsaw and how that understanding will guide his new direction. “Leigh and I both want to recapture the spirit of that first film and revisit Jigsaw's philosophy, which is that he targets people who don't value their lives,” Wan said. “If you're a bad person, but you appreciate your life, he doesn't consider you someone who is wasting your life, so I want to go back to what we touched on in the first movie regarding that.”According to Wan, Jigsaw doesn't just punish people for being evil; he forces those who take their lives for granted to understand what it means to be alive. And apparently, nothing makes you appreciate being alive more than almost being killed by a reverse bear trap. James Wan wants to bring Jigsaw back to basics. | Evolution/Saw Prods Inc/Kobal/ShutterstockBut while Wan aims to bring the franchise back to its roots, he hasn't forgotten about the fan base the movies have gathered over 22 years. “I want to respect what people have come to love about the franchise while trying to do something new and fresh that we haven't seen before,” he said. “This next movie would be the eleventh installment, and there have been many films in this universe. We need to do something different to reach a new generation that didn't grow up with it.”Condensing the franchise to its core values while also evolving the story, all while attracting new audiences and satisfying old fans, is a tall order for a series mostly about brutal murders. Still, Wan seems to have a direction in mind, and that's as good a start as any.
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by: emer
Standard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Indices reveal steady business sentiment amid persistent external uncertainties
HONG KONG, January 29, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Standard Chartered and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) have jointly released the latest Standard Chartered Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index (GBAI), which revealed that the business sentiment for most companies in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) remained steady amid persistent external uncertainties in Q4-2025. The GBA Index is released quarterly in January, April, July, and October each year.Following a rebound in the previous quarter, the GBAI indices showed a moderate quarter-on-quarter retreat in the fourth quarter of 2025. This has been seen as the result of diminishing returns from front-loading activities and from a more cautious approach to investment, financing, and capacity utilisation amid ongoing external uncertainties.The “current performance” index for business activity in Q4 retreated to 50.3 from 54.7 in the previous quarter, while the “expectations” index dropped to 51 from 55.7. Despite the drop, both indices remained in expansionary territory, indicating that GBA businesses still maintained a broadly positive outlook.Turning to the sub-indices, a mixed picture emerged for both “current performance” and “expectations” for the quarter overall. More specifically, with regard to “current performance”, the “new orders”, “fixed asset investment” and “profit” sub-indices all fell below the 50 watershed level. This, however, was seen as a correction following the end of the front-loading process in earlier quarters. Subdued growth in loans and fixed-asset investment in the Chinese Mainland also contributed to this slight downward trend.On the contrary, the “expectations” remained relatively positive, with sub-indices for “production/sales”, “new orders” and “profits” all staying in expansionary territory in the fourth quarter last year. Taken together, these upbeat outcomes suggest a strong likelihood that robust demand will persist through the first quarter of 2026 and beyond.In terms of individual GBA city evaluations, Hong Kong's readings were well above the survey average. This confirmed that the city’s economic rebound remained on course at year-end, with the “current performance” sub-index up 5.7 points to 57.9 and the “expectations” reading up 1.8 points to 55.4. Overall, this sustained recovery in growth momentum was attributed to the city’s “professional services” and “retail/wholesale” sectors.Wing Chu, Deputy Director of Research, HKTDC, said: “Following the extension of the trade truce between the US and China, business sentiment in Hong Kong continued to improve, allowing the city to outperform its peer cities across the GBA. This strength stands in contrast to the broader moderation seen in the overall GBA indices amid persistent external uncertainties. This momentum in Hong Kong's recovery is expected to remain intact, supported by buoyant business activity and the professional services sector's solid performance– key factors that underscore the city’s recovery trajectory. The HKTDC will continue to proactively support GBA enterprises in leveraging Hong Kong's professional services to ‘go global’ and capitalise on opportunities in emerging markets, including those in the Middle East.”In order to get a greater understanding of the wider aspirations of GBA businesses, the survey also examined their interest in the expansion into the Middle East. Encouragingly, over half of respondents (54.8%) expressed interest in expanding into the Middle East, with the UAE (53.9%) and Saudi Arabia (53.2%) selected as the top two priority markets.Digging deeper into these findings, of the companies that have already started or are interested in expanding into the Middle East, nearly 60% were engaged in trading/ distribution activity. This was followed by manufacturing (42.7%) and logistics/ storage (28.3%).Despite widespread optimism about emerging opportunities in the Middle East, many GBA businesses were also aware they faced several challenges in ensuring success. Overall, the top three concerns here were: “lack of understanding of local laws and regulations” (50.4%), “opaque local regulatory environment and restrictions on foreign investment” (43.1%) and “cultural and business differences” (42%).Crucially, to help manage such challenges, 99.2% of respondents saw Hong Kong’s world-class services as pivotal to the success of their Middle East expansion plans. Particular emphasis was placed on the decisive contribution of the city’s professional services sector, especially in successfully navigating local regulatory and compliance requirements.Hunter Chan, Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered, said: “With increasingly complex geopolitical risks, global corporates not only actively diversify their supply chains but also explore new markets in recent years, thereby giving rise to numerous emerging trade corridors. The thematic survey found that the GBA corporates are interested in entering the Middle East, which aligns with Hong Kong Government’s policy focus to set up the ‘GoGlobal Task Force’ to leverage Hong Kong’s advantages as a ‘go global’ platform, and deepen economic ties with the Middle East. The survey also found that almost all respondents indicate that Hong Kong services are needed to help in expansion into the Middle East to address the challenges posed by local regulations and cultural differences. With its advantage in professional services, Hong Kong can further leverage its unique position as a ‘super-connector’, becoming a springboard for enterprises to develop overseas markets.”About the GBAIThe Standard Chartered Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index (GBAI), jointly presented by Standard Chartered and Hong Kong Trade Development Council, is the first forward-looking quarterly survey in the market that examines business sentiment and synergistic effects in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ("Greater Bay Area" or "GBA"). The index is computed from the analysis of more than 1,000 responses from GBA companies regarding their overall operations, business environment, and expansion plans. The index includes five sub-indices that indicate business confidence for each industry, including manufacturing & trading, retail & wholesale, financial services, professional services, and innovation & technology. It enables investors and businesses to better understand the current business climate, gauge future performance and formulate their market strategies in the Greater Bay Area. Related materialsStandard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index Report:https://www.sc.com/hk/gba/gba-index-report/HKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MjIzMTk3MzQwOAMedia enquiriesStandard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, Corporate Affairs DepartmentFlora Chiu, Tel: +852 3843 2285, Email: flora.chiu@sc.com HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department:Katy Wong, Tel: +852 2584 4524, Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout Standard CharteredWe are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 54 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges.The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC.For more stories and expert opinions, please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.About 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 Mainland China, 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