Simplified Self-Exclusion Mechanisms Introduced by Dutch Regulator

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Netherlands’ gambling regulatory body, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has rolled out a new system to streamline the process by which authorized third parties can sign up problem gamblers for the national self-exclusion program CRUKS. These updates aim to give court-appointed individuals or guardians who manage others’ finances greater legal authority to add those individuals to the register should problem gambling arise. Such authorizations are typically granted when individuals already face financial issues and are at risk of mishandling their money. Enrolling them in CRUKS removes the chance that problem gambling will worsen their financial situation. The KSA noted that earlier processes for authorized guardians to take this step were considered inefficient and legally complicated. Feedback on the old process highlighted an excessive amount of evidence required to prove both that problem gambling was occurring and that it had caused harm, along with lengthy processing delays. Now, the KSA has adjusted the process so that the authorized entity’s decision carries more weight—reducing the need for extra evidence—and has cut the processing deadline to a maximum of two weeks. CRUKS is one of the tools the KSA uses to address harmful gambling behaviors among the Dutch population; the system launched in 2021, coinciding with the introduction of regulated online gambling. In addition to CRUKS, the gambling regulator oversees a dedicated fund subsidized directly by the government, which provides financial support for projects aimed at minimizing gambling-related harm. The latest fundinground of funding awarded grants to five initiatives focused on developing research, education, prevention efforts, and policy work This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

New York Attorney General Accuses Coinbase and Gemini of Running Illegal Gambling Operations Through Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   New York Attorney General Letitia James has initiated legal action against Coinbase and Gemini, accusing the firms of operating illegal gambling via their prediction market services. The two companies have recently launched markets that allow trading on the outcomes of sporting events, elections, and awards shows. James stated that “these prediction market platforms meet the legal criteria for gambling in New York” because the results are unpredictable, beyond a participant's influence, or dependent on chance. These activities are being conducted without the required gambling licenses. The state's gambling industry is tightly controlled, with just nine authorized sportsbooks. “Calling it something else doesn't change what it is; gambling by any other name is still gambling,” James remarked in a press release. “The prediction markets run by Gemini and Coinbase are simply unlicensed gambling businesses that lure young users to addictive sites without proper protections. We are acting to safeguard New Yorkers and prevent these platforms from breaking the law.” Prediction Markets Encourage Underage Gambling Beyond the licensing issue, James challenges the platforms' policy of permitting users below the legal gambling age to engage. While the legal age for gambling in New York is 21, these prediction markets accept participants as young as 18. The complaint warns that “Introducing minors to online gambling poses serious risks to their mental health and financial stability,” referencing National Institutes of Health data linking early gambling exposure to higher rates of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and monetary problems. This action follows a recent lawsuit James filed against Valve, contending that the video game company's loot boxes also promote underage gambling. The lawsuits further claim that Coinbase and Gemini break state law by permitting wagers on college sports games that include teams from New York, which is expressly forbidden. James Wants Companies to Pay Back Profits James also highlights that the companies are not paying taxes like licensed sportsbooks. New York imposes a 51% tax rate on gambling operators, the nation's highest, which generated $1.32 billion in state tax revenue in the previous year. To address the financial impact, James is seeking a court order for the companies “to disgorge all illicit earnings, provide restitution to affected consumers, and pay penalties amounting to three times the profits gained from their unlawful conduct.” Multiple Legal Battles in NY Against Prediction Markets Separate from the Attorney General's lawsuits, the New York State Gaming Commission issued a cease-and-desist order to Kalshi last year. Kalshi subsequently filed a lawsuit against the regulator, which has temporarily halted enforcement pending the litigation's outcome. Kalshi and Polymarket are not defendants in the Attorney General's current cases, but both are confronting class-action lawsuits in the state where users make parallel accusations of operating illegal gambling schemes. State legislators have additionally proposed a bill that would explicitly ban prediction markets centered on sports, political outcomes, death, and war. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

China Gas Signs Strategic Cooperation Agreement with CITIC Construction and China CITIC Bank

HONG KONG, Apr 22, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - China Gas Holdings Limited (“China Gas” or the “Group”; stock code: 384), a leading city gas operator in China, announced that it has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with CITIC Construction Co., Ltd. (“CITIC Construction”) and China CITIC Bank Corporation Limited (“China CITIC Bank”). Based on the principles of “resource sharing, complementary strengths, shared benefits and mutual success”, the three parties will establish an integrated “industry-construction-finance” ecosystem-based collaborative model. This partnership aims to further support the development of China Gas’ new businesses, including energy storage and biomass energy, and jointly deepening engagement in global energy infrastructure and green low-carbon industries.China Gas, CITIC Construction and China CITIC Bank officially sign a tripartite strategic cooperation agreementThis collaboration represents an important step by all parties in actively responding to China’s “15th Five-Year Plan” and deepply participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. According to the agreement, the three parties will establish a comprehensive strategic partnership and conduct in-depth cooperation across various areas, including overseas energy infrastructure construction, joint development of third-party projects, industrial park businesses, green finance and various financing collaborations. They have adopted a closed-loop, ecosystem-based collaborative model: China Gas serves as the business model leader, responsible for project planning, technical solutions, and operations; CITIC Construction acts as the engineering and construction executor, leveraging its strengths in local resource coordination and construction management; China CITIC Bank, as the financial services provider, will meetinvestment and financing needs.To address global climate change and energy security challenges, the three parties will focus on the core areas, including: i) Prioritizing high-potential regions including Europe, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and North Asia to jointly promote the development and construction of energy infrastructure, ii) Integrating their resources around the industrial parks and new urbanization projects led and developed by China Gas at home and abroad, iii) Working  together to implement the “green development” strategy and engage in in-depth collaboration in the areas of investment and financing.To capitalize on the opportunities presented by the global energy transition and the national “dualcarbon” goals, the Group is accelerating the development of two new growth drivers: its new energy business centered on energy storage and its biomass energy business. In the energy storage sector, the Group is seizing the strategic opportunities created by power market reforms and the development of a new power system, while continuing to deepen its market presence and optimize its layout, with a focus on “concentrating efforts in core regions and achieving key breakthroughs in overseas markets”. Meanwhile, the Group is actively expanding its biomass business and achieving growth across multiple fronts. It has previously entered cooperation agreements with several leading enterprises, including Deyi Energy (a subsidiary of Chery Automobile) and EVE Energy, as well as local governments, to jointly advance the construction of zero-carbon industrial parks and the clean upgrading of industries. This cooperation will further support the Group in expanding its domestic and overseas markets, focusing on the two new growth engines of “energy storage + biomass energy”, and promoting the Group’s healthy and sustainable development.Mr. LIU Ming Hui, Chairman and President of China Gas, said, “After more than two decades of development, China Gas has built a comprehensive business structure centered on natural gas, integrating LNG, LPG, biomass energy, and new energy technology. We are currently accelerating our globalization strategy and have formed a clear business footprint in regions such as Europe, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and North Asia. The signing of this tripartite agreement with CITIC Construction and China CITIC Bank marks our shift from simple overseas expansion to a cluster-based international strategy driven by industry leadership, empowered by engineering expertise, and finance support. Through close collaboration with our partners in finance and industry, we will leverage our stronger risk resilience and our industry chain advantages to contribute China Gas solutions to the sustainable development of global energy.”About China Gas Holdings LimitedChina Gas Holdings Limited ("China Gas", stock code: 384. HK) is a leading gas service provider. Focusing on China, it principally specializes in the investment, construction and operations of city gas pipeline infrastructure, distribution of natural gas and LPG to residential, industrial and commercial users, as well as construction and operations of gas refilling stations for vehicles and vessels. Currently, China Gas owns a total of 662 city and township gas projects with concession rights, 32 long-distance pipeline transmission projects of natural gas, 485 CNG and LNG refilling stations for vehicles and vessels, as well as 120 LPG distribution projects. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

BETBY follows up on its predictions initiative with a media-inspired engagement tool

(AsiaGameHub) -   BETBY is bolstering its marketing and promotional capabilities within the international betting sector, building upon its recent expansions into streaming and predictive services. The sportsbook solutions provider today unveiled ‘Stories,’ a new feature designed to showcase promotions and major events by drawing inspiration from popular media platforms. Fully integrated into the BETBY sportsbook ecosystem, the feature utilizes interactive content cards. BETBY anticipates that this format will foster greater user familiarity and drive increased engagement. “Stories is about meeting users where they already are, in terms of how they consume content,” stated Aglaja Geta, Head of UX and Analytics at BETBY. “We wanted to introduce a format that feels instantly familiar, while giving operators a powerful new way to highlight their most important promotions and events. “It creates a smoother, more engaging experience that encourages interaction without adding complexity to the platform.” BETBY expects the new tool to succeed given the heightened competition within the betting and gaming industry in 2026. This market intensity is particularly evident with the World Cup approaching in less than two months. Marketing budgets are facing significant pressure in Europe, as substantial tax regimes in major markets like the UK, France, the Netherlands, and Germany strain operator finances. Consequently, a product like Stories—with its potential to boost customer engagement—may prove increasingly attractive to operators looking to differentiate themselves from a crowded field of competitors. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

CBL International Limited Acquires Majority Stake in Green Marine Energy Holdings Limited

Kuala Lumpur, Apr 22, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) — CBL International Limited (NASDAQ: BANL) (“CBL” or the “Company”), a Nasdaq-listed marine fuel logistics and bunkering facilitator of Banle Group (“Banle” or “the Group”) focused on the Asia-Pacific region, today announced the acquisition of a 50.5% majority stake in Green Marine Energy Holdings Limited (“GMH”), a British Virgin Islands incorporated company. The transaction will be executed by CBL’s wholly-owned subsidiary, which has signed the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement (the “SPA”) as the buyer. To support the transaction, CBL will provide a corporate guarantee to the sellers, securing the payment obligations of its subsidiary.GMH operates two complementary businesses in Malaysia: feedstock trading for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biofuels, and ship biofuel supply together with traditional bunkering services. The feedstock trading arm holds the necessary licenses to source and trade raw materials used in SAF and biofuel production, supported by an established network of suppliers and customers. Its bunkering operations include a license to supply both conventional bunker fuel and biofuels within Malaysian waters.This strategic investment aligns with growing global emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations and evolving regulatory requirements in the maritime and aviation sectors. CBL’s financial resources and operational expertise in marine fuel logistics are expected to support GMH’s expansion, complementing it to scale its feedstock trading activities and explore opportunities to supply SAF-related producers in Malaysia.Malaysia is seeing increased investment in sustainable fuel infrastructure, with new commercial-scale SAF production facilities opening and planned in the country. These developments further underscore the potential for feedstock demand in the region.In the bunkering segment, GMH’s license positions the combined group to develop traditional and biofuel bunkering supply capabilities at key Malaysian ports, including Port Klang—one of the world’s top ten ports by throughput. This builds on CBL’s existing bunkering facilitation services and supports the industry’s transition toward lower-carbon marine fuels.Dr. Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CBL, commented: “This acquisition represents a measured step to broaden our presence in the sustainable energy supply chain while leveraging our core strengths in marine fuel services. We look forward to working with the GMH team to support the responsible growth of these businesses in line with market developments.”The transaction is expected to enhance CBL’s long-term positioning in the evolving marine and energy sectors without altering the Company’s primary focus on its established bunkering facilitation activities.About the Banle GroupCBL International Limited (Nasdaq: BANL) is the listing vehicle of Banle Group, a reputable marine fuel logistic company based in the Asia Pacific region that was established in 2015. We are committed to providing customers with one-stop solution for vessel refueling, which is referred to as bunkering facilitator in the bunkering industry. We facilitate vessel refueling mainly through local physical suppliers in over 70 major ports covering Australia, Belgium, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Netherlands, Panama, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam, as of 17 April, 2026. The Group actively promotes the use of sustainable fuels and is awarded with the ISCC EU and ISCC Plus certifications, as well as EcoVadis Silver Medal.For more information about our company, please visit our website at: https://www.banle-intl.com.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements in this announcement are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “plan,” “should,” “would,” “future,” “outlook,” “potential,” “project” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and forecasts of other performance metrics and projections of market opportunity. They involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release and on current expectations of BANL’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of BANL. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements could include changes in domestic and foreign business, fuel prices and tariffs, market, financial, political and legal conditions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.CBL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED(Incorporated in Cayman Islands with limited liabilities)For more information, please contact:CBL International LimitedEmail: investors@banle-ntl.com Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

GMG Appoints New Chief Production Growth Officer and Provides Update on Global Production Plans

Brisbane, Queensland, Australia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - April 22, 2026) - Graphene Manufacturing Group Ltd (TSXV: GMG) (OTCQX: GMGMF) ("GMG" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Stuart Watson — former global Head of Technical Development for Rio Tinto Ltd. (ASX: RIO), one of the largest mining and mineral production companies in the world, has joined GMG as Chief Production Growth Officer.Stuart has over 30 years of global leadership experience in metals and mining and oil and chemicals, including 20 years at Rio Tinto, across operations, sales and marketing, mergers and acquisitions, and technology development and innovation. Career highlights include:Leading and delivering multiple major transformation programs valued over US$5 Billion and merger and acquisition deals valued at US$1 Billion.Directing US$1 Billion in global technology and research & development spend to create breakthrough growth options and projectsBuilding high-performing global teams across Asia, Europe, and North AmericaStuart has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Henley Management College, UK; is a Chartered Engineer - Institute of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), has a Masters of Engineering, Chemical Engineering (First Class Honours) — Imperial College, University of London and Ecole Nationale Supérieure d'Ingénieurs de Génie Chimique (ENSIGC), Toulouse, France.Craig Nicol, CEO & Managing Director of the Company, commented "We welcome Stuart to the GMG team - he is a great addition to the Senior Executive Team for both executive leadership and delivery capability. I will enjoy working with Stuart to expand our production across our graphene and graphene products around the world."Jack Perkowski, Non-Executive Chairman and Director of the Company, commented: "On behalf of the board I welcome Stuart to the team and look forward to the progress around expanding our production capability into North America."Operations UpdateGMG is focused on delivering its Gen 2.0 Graphene Production Project (the "Gen 2.0 Project") by end of June 2026 — which is expected to produce at least 10 tonnes per annum of graphene at its headquarters in Richlands, Queensland, Australia.Once the Gen 2.0 Project is commissioned and operating. GMG plans to replicate and establish other production plants around the world to enable scaled production for potential sales, diversify and lower production risks, and in the end, reduce operating costs by locating the plant in countries with lower operating costs, including low cost natural gas — one of GMG's key production input costs.Currently, GMG is planning three potential expansion projects — two in North America (potentially one in US and one in Canada) in addition to an expansion production project in Australia. GMG proposes to mature these projects and expand production in line with sales for all of its products.The expansion program for GMG includes the following 5 production plants:Graphene Production (from natural gas)Coating Blend Plant (for the graphene coating THERMAL-XR®)Lubricant Blend Plant (for the graphene lubricant additive G® LUBRICANT)Graphene Slurry Plant (for the SUPA G Lithium-Ion Battery Additive)Battery Assembly Plant (for the Graphene Aluminium Ion Battery)Figure 1To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/293781_d1c07d1d84356a2d_001full.jpgAbout GMG:GMG is an Australian based clean-technology company which develops, makes and sells energy saving and energy storage solutions, enabled by graphene manufactured via in house production process. GMG uses its own proprietary production process to decompose natural gas (i.e. methane) into its natural elements, carbon (as graphene), hydrogen and some residual hydrocarbon gases. This process produces high quality, low cost, scalable, 'tuneable' and low/no contaminant graphene suitable for use in clean-technology and other applications.The Company's present focus is to de-risk and develop commercial scale-up capabilities, and secure market applications. In the energy savings segment, GMG has initially focused on graphene enhanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC-R") coating (or energy-saving coating) which is now being marketed into other applications including electronic heat sinks, industrial process plants and data centres. Another product GMG has developed is the graphene lubricant additive focused on saving liquid fuels initially for diesel engines.In the energy storage segment, GMG and the University of Queensland are working collaboratively with financial support from the Australian Government to progress R&D and commercialization of graphene aluminium-ion batteries ("G+AI Batteries"). GMG has also developed a graphene additive slurry that is aimed at improving the performance of lithium-ion batteries.GMG's 4 critical business objectives are:Produce Graphene and improve/scale cell production processesBuild Revenue from Energy Savings ProductsDevelop Next-Generation BatteryDevelop Supply Chain, Partners & Project Execution CapabilityFor further information please contact:Craig Nicol, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of the Company at craig.nicol@graphenemg.com, +61 415 445 223Leo Karabelas at Focus Communications Investor Relations, leo@fcir.ca, +1 647 689 6041Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends", "believes" "expects" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or will "potentially" or "likely" occur. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward‐looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements as to GMG's focus on, and the timing and production expectations of, the Gen 2 Project, intentions regarding the number, purpose and location of expansion projects, intentions to de-risk and develop commercial scale-up capabilities, GMG's focus in the energy savings segment, GMG's intentions for the use of graphene lubricant additive on saving liquid fuels, expectations for R&D and commercialization of G+AI Batteries, GMG's ability to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries and GMG's critical business objectives.Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions of management, including the patent and potential market size of G® LUBRICANT. Additionally, forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of GMG to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation that GMG does not receive or receive on a timely basis the fully signed consent notice from the and the risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated November 4, 2025 available for review on the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293781 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Italy: Meloni’s Lieutenants Working Against Tight Deadlines to Deliver Betting Changes

(AsiaGameHub) -   Regulating gambling across Italy has become a top priority for the Meloni government this Spring. Upcoming changes to Italy’s retail gambling laws, paired with renewed debate around repealing the 2018 Dignity Decree’s full ban on gambling advertising and sponsorships, have moved into the spotlight after a series of ministerial updates released this week. Speaking to delegates at Italy’s First Anti-Fraud Conference, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Maurizio Leo confirmed he is ready to present the long-awaited Reorganisation Decree focused on land-based gambling to the Council of Ministers. After a minor delay, Leo stated that the decree will be submitted within the “next ten days”, launching preliminary review of reforms that have already been agreed between the Meloni government and Italy’s 20 administrative regions. The overhaul of Italy’s land-based gambling sector has been in development for two years, with Leo leading negotiations between the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces. The decree prioritizes a full restructuring of Italy’s licensing framework for land-based gambling venues, alongside the rollout of uniform national standards for safer gambling controls and operational rules. Leo emphasized that these retail gambling reforms extend beyond fiscal goals, framing the package as a combined measure to improve tax collection, uphold public order, and fight crime.  He warned that illegal gambling does more than cut into government revenue: it acts as a pipeline for organised crime and money laundering to infiltrate the legitimate Italian economy. A core element of the decree is the introduction of a regional revenue-sharing model, with ongoing talks to allocate a share of land-based gambling income to local governments. This change is designed to align the priorities of the national government and regions, and stabilize the new operating framework for land-based gambling licences. Leo on the clock… While the Meloni government remains on its overall timeline, pressure is mounting to finalize and enact the Reorganisation Decree into law. Upcoming steps are time-critical, as the full legislative process must be completed by the August 29 tax delegation deadline, or no new tenders can be opened. As explained by AgiProNews: “The measure must finish its full legislative process by the tax delegation deadline, set for August 29, otherwise it will be impossible to launch new tenders, which would lead to further extensions of existing concessions.  “After approval by the executive branch, the bill will be sent to the Joint Conference and relevant parliamentary committees to gather the required consensus and input.” Calcio Concerns Since April 8, the Italian Senate has opened formal proceedings examining the state of Italian football, prompted by the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup – a third consecutive absence that has stepped up political and institutional scrutiny of the sport’s governance and funding model. At the center of discussions is the proposed “right-to-bet” framework, which would see a portion of overall gambling and sports betting revenues redistributed to football and other sports bodies across Italy.  The framework is framed as a mechanism to reinvest betting proceeds back into the sports ecosystem that generates them, including for stadium upgrades, youth development academies, and the expansion of women’s sports. Sports Minister Andrea Abodi backed the principle in the Senate: “In other countries, betting acts as a driver of competition… Most stakeholders support the right to bet framework, which shares sports betting proceeds with the event organiser as compensation.” He went on to criticize the current structure, adding: “Clubs organise events and invest in better match preparation… and then, despite being the main investors, they are locked out of betting proceeds.” The minister also tied the proposal to protecting market integrity and fighting illegal betting, warning: “The main investor in an event is also the entity that certifies match data… it is clear that this is a key factor in the competition between legal and illegal betting markets.” The proposal has earned backing from outgoing FIGC President Gabriele Gravina, who stepped down after Italy’s decisive defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina – a result that confirmed the Azzurri’s exclusion from the 2026 tournament.  Gravina has long argued that Italian football needs new, sustainable funding channels to remain competitive with its European peer leagues. At the same time, pressure is growing on the Meloni government to review the ongoing enforcement of the 2018 Dignity Decree, introduced by the former Lega–Five Star coalition, which implemented a full ban on gambling advertising and sponsorships.  Sports and media stakeholders have long argued that this policy has cost Italian football and broadcasters up to €1bn in lost commercial revenue, weakening the sport’s financial foundation. Abodi confirmed that any reform will go through further consultation, saying: “Regarding the percentage of revenue allocated, I am willing to discuss this with Parliament, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Customs and Monopolies Agency.” He also stressed that gambler protection will remain central to any reforms: “One way to combat gambling harm is to improve bettor traceability, place limits on excessive betting, and thus provide support to state-licensed concessionaires.” Just like the land-based reorganisation decree, the rollout of a right-to-bet model now faces a tight political and legislative timetable. Abodi must negotiate terms in the coming months with Serie A and the Olympic Committee of CONI to define how revenues will be allocated and governed. Pressure is growing on Meloni’s key allies to meet their legislative deadlines, particularly on Abodi to secure repeal of the Dignity Decree. The fragile state of Italian football is a top sensitive political issue in 2026, with pressure amplified by media and public demand for a clear plan to restore the standing of Calcio. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

OMRON Healthcare and Tricog Health strengthen collaboration in India with Tricog CardioCheck (TCC)

KYOTO, Japan, Apr 22, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - OMRON Healthcare Co., Ltd., a global leader in clinically proven medical devices for home health monitoring and treatment, today announced the integration of its ECG-enabled upper arm blood pressure monitors with Tricog Health Pte. Ltd.’s clinically validated AI-powered cardiac triage service, Tricog CardioCheck (TCC). The service is scheduled for rollout at health centers across India from April 2026. Tricog CardioCheck (TCC) enables ECG data recorded using OMRON Healthcare’s Complete™ blood pressure monitors with integrated ECG monitoring to be transmitted to the cloud and analyzed by Tricog’s AI algorithms. Within approximately 10 seconds, the system provides a three-level risk assessment, supporting patient triage and timely clinical evaluation.Results are displayed via a dedicated smartphone application designed for healthcare professionals, allowing front-line care providers to review patient risk levels in real time and quickly determine the need for further examination, even where a cardiology specialist is not immediately available.Cardiovascular disease represents a growing public health challenge in India, with the number of patients projected to increase from approximately 110 million today to 230 million by 2050. At the same time, access to specialized care remains limited, with far fewer cardiology specialists per capita than Japan or the United States and limited access to facilities equipped for advanced cardiac testing.While early identification can be crucial to the effective management of cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure and heart attacks, helping to reduce the risk of serious complications including strokes, many cases go undetected until overt symptoms begin to develop.By integrating ECG measurement into routine blood pressure monitoring at clinics, Tricog CardioCheck (TCC) supports the identification of patients whose underlying conditions may otherwise go undiagnosed. Furthermore, the system enables cardiovascular screening to be incorporated into existing workflows without significantly increasing operational burden, facilitating earlier detection and more timely referral for further evaluation.Since its initial investment in Tricog in fiscal year 2023, OMRON Healthcare has continued to strengthen its partnership with the company in order to address key healthcare challenges in India. Through ongoing collaboration, both companies aim to expand access to innovative diagnostic solutions and contribute to improving cardiovascular health outcomes across the country.About OMRON HealthcareCommitted to advancing health and empowering people worldwide to live life to the fullest, OMRON Healthcare is a global leader in the field of clinically proven, innovative medical equipment for home health monitoring and treatment. Aiming to realize its vision, “Going for ZERO, Preventive Care for the Health of Society,” the company develops products for cardiovascular condition management, respiratory care, and pain therapy. Building on this, it has introduced a new digital health ecosystem that bridges patients and healthcare professionals, helping to reduce cerebro-cardiovascular events, the worsening of respiratory diseases, and limitations caused by chronic pain.With over 400 million units sold globally, OMRON provides the world's most recommended blood pressure monitors by healthcare professionals. Throughout its history, OMRON Healthcare has striven to improve lives and contribute to a better society by developing innovations that help people prevent, treat, and manage their medical conditions, providing products and services in over 130 countries.For more information, please visit: Website: https://healthcare.omron.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/omron-healthcare-co-ltd-/Media enquiriesThis press release is disseminated by Kyodo PR on behalf of OMRON Healthcare. For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact:OMRON Healthcare Press Desk: omronhealthcare-pr@kyodo-pr.co.jp  Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TMX Group Announces Agreement to Acquire Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada

Transaction will create a global powerhouse for mining finance and reduce complexity and costs for Canadian market participantsAcquisition will strengthen TMX's ability to serve clients across the capital markets ecosystem, expands global presence, accelerates growth strategyAnalyst webcast and conference call on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 8:00am EDT to discussToronto, Ontario--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - April 22, 2026) - TMX Group Limited (TSX: X) (TMX Group) announced today an agreement to acquire Middlebury Holdings Pty. Limited (Cboe Australia) and Cboe Canada Holdings, ULC (Cboe Canada) from Cboe Global Markets, Inc. for US$300 million ($409 million*) in total consideration, a transaction that will bolster TMX's ability to serve clients across the capital markets ecosystem, expand the company's global presence, and accelerate the company's growth strategy, while reducing cost and complexity for Canadian market participants."We are tremendously excited to announce the acquisition of Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada, a deal that represents a unique opportunity to strengthen our domestic marketplace for clients and the entire stakeholder ecosystem, while expanding the reach and impact of our presence in a region of the world we know well," said John McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer, TMX Group. "We look forward to working with our industry partners to ensure a smooth transition, and to exploring innovative ways to serve the needs of issuers and investors across the Australian market, while continuing to seek out opportunities to accelerate our enterprise growth strategy."Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada offer equities trading venues, listing venues and market data solutions. Cboe Australia is an innovative securities exchange offering companies strategic tailored support for public market listings, including ETFs, as well as structured products and warrants, and providing a trading venue for brokers and investors with efficient and cost-effective access to local and global investment opportunities. Cboe Australia was also recently granted a license for corporate listings. Cboe Canada includes MATCHNow, NEO-L, NEO-N, and NEO-D, as well as ETF, CDR and corporate listings."The teams at Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada have delivered consistent performance and built resilient, high-quality markets," said Craig Donohue, Chief Executive Officer, Cboe Global Markets. "These businesses are well positioned for their next chapter, and we will work closely with TMX, our local regulators, and our clients to ensure a seamless transition."Transaction HighlightsTMX's acquisition of Cboe Australia will bring together the world's leading mining and energy transition financing ecosystems, unlocking potential to innovate for a growing global client base.TMX's acquisition of Cboe Canada enhances the quality of client experience across domestic equities marketplaces:Increasing efficiency of access to capital and liquidity for Canadian issuers, andReducing direct and indirect costs for participants, while improving execution quality and resiliency.Transaction expected to be accretive to adjusted earnings per share within the first 12 months of closing, excluding synergies.Revenue growth expected to be in-line with TMX's long-term financial objectivesCombined Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia businesses delivered revenue of approximately $87 million in 2025, and adjusted EBITDA of approximately $25 million**.Further Transaction DetailsThe purchase of each business is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions in Australia and Canada. The two components of this acquisition, Cboe Australia and Cboe Canada, are expected to close separately, each after required approvals have been obtained.Canaccord Genuity and Macquarie Capital are acting as financial advisors to TMX Group. FGS Longview is acting as strategic communications advisor to TMX Group.*Based on USD/CAD exchange rate of 1.3644 at April 21, 2026. Actual amounts in Canadian dollars are subject to change.**Based on average AUD/CAD of 0.90 for 2025. Cboe Australia and Canada revenue and EBITDA are compilations of financial information provided to us for the Cboe entities as of December 31, 2025. The Cboe financial information is unaudited and prepared in accordance with IFRS (Cboe Canada) or Australian Accounting Standards (Cboe Australia) for public companies.Teleconference / Audio WebcastTMX Group will host a teleconference / audio webcast to discuss the transaction.Time: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, April 22, 2026Participants may access the conference call via the webcast link: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14669.The audio webcast of the conference call and investor presentation will also be available on TMX Group's website at www.tmx.com, under Investor Relations.Alternatively, participants may join the live call by dialing 1-833-752-4317 or 1-647-846-2266.An audio replay of the conference call will be available at 1-855-669-9658 or 1-412-317-0088, [access code 6830744].Caution Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis press release of TMX Group Limited ("TMX Group", "us", "we", "our") contains "forward-looking information" (as defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation) that is based on expectations, assumptions, estimates, projections and other factors that management believes to be relevant as of the date of this press release. Often, but not always, such forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "plans", "expects", "projects", "is expected", "projected", "budget", "scheduled", "targeted", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations or the negatives of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved or not be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information, by its nature, requires TMX Group to make assumptions and is subject to significant risks and uncertainties which may give rise to the possibility that our expectations or conclusions will not prove to be accurate and that our assumptions may not be correct. Examples of forward-looking information in this press release include, but are not limited to, the anticipated benefits of the transactions to TMX Group, Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia; the expected impact on TMX Group's earnings and Adjusted earnings per share; expectations regarding the revenue growth of Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia; the ability to integrate Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia into TMX Group and the potential synergies; the expected impact on TMX's long-term growth strategy and transformational objectives; the potential for geographic expansion; the ability for TMX Group to accelerate Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia's growth; the timing and receipt of regulatory approval; and closing of the transaction, each of which is subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties. These risks include, but are not limited to: competition from other exchanges or marketplaces, including alternative trading systems and new technologies, on a national and international basis; dependence on the economies of Canada, the United States and Australia; adverse effects on our results caused by global economic conditions (including geopolitical events, interest rate movements or threats of recession) or uncertainties including changes in business cycles that impact our sector; failure to retain and attract qualified personnel; geopolitical and other factors which could cause business interruption; dependence on information technology; vulnerability of our networks and third party service providers to security risks, including cyber attacks; failure to properly identify or implement our strategies; regulatory constraints; constraints imposed by our level of indebtedness, risks of litigation or other proceedings; dependence on adequate numbers of customers; failure to develop, market or gain acceptance of new products; failure to close and effectively integrate acquisitions, including the Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia acquisition, to achieve planned economics or divest underperforming businesses; currency risk; adverse effect of new business activities; adverse effects from business divestitures; not being able to meet cash requirements because of our holding company structure and restrictions on paying inter-corporate dividends; dependence on third party suppliers and service providers; dependence of trading operations on a small number of clients; risks associated with our clearing operations; challenges related to international expansion; restrictions on ownership of TMX Group common shares; inability to protect our intellectual property; adverse effect of a systemic market event on certain of our businesses; risks associated with the credit of customers; cost structures being largely fixed; the failure to realize cost reductions in the amount or the time frame anticipated; dependence on market activity that cannot be controlled; the regulatory constraints that apply to the business of TMX Group and its regulated subsidiaries, costs of on exchange clearing and depository services, trading volumes (which could be higher or lower than estimated) and the resulting impact on revenues; future levels of revenues being lower than expected or costs being higher than expected.Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions with respect to the impact of the cost of acquisition financing on adjusted earnings per share; assumptions in connection with the ability of TMX Group to successfully compete against global and regional marketplaces and other venues; business and economic conditions generally; exchange rates (including estimates of exchange rates from Canadian dollars to the U.S. dollar, British pound sterling, or Australian dollar), commodities prices, the level of trading and activity on markets, and particularly the level of trading in TMX Group's key products; business development and marketing and sales activity; the continued availability of financing on appropriate terms for future projects; changes to interest rates and the timing thereof; productivity at TMX Group, as well as that of TMX Group's competitors; market competition; research and development activities; the successful introduction and client acceptance of new products and services; successful introduction of various technology assets and capabilities; the impact on TMX Group and its customers of various regulations; TMX Group's ongoing relations with its employees; and the extent of any labour, equipment or other disruptions at any of its operations of any significance other than any planned maintenance or similar shutdowns.In addition to the assumptions outlined above, forward looking information related to long term revenue CAGR objectives, and long term adjusted earnings per share CAGR objectives are based on assumptions that include, but not limited to:TMX Group's success in achieving growth initiatives and business objectives;continued investment in growth businesses and in transformation initiatives including next generation technology and systems;no significant changes to our effective tax rate, and number of shares outstanding;organic and inorganic growth in recurring revenuemoderate levels of market volatility over the long term;level of listings, trading, and clearing consistent with historical activity;economic growth consistent with historical activity;no significant changes in regulations;continued disciplined expense management across our business;continued re-prioritization of investment towards enterprise solutions and new capabilities;free cash flow generation consistent with historical run rate; anda limited impact from inflation, rising interest rates and supply chain constraints on our plans to grow our business over the long term including on the ability of our listed issuers to raise capital.While we anticipate that subsequent events and developments may cause TMX Group's views to change, TMX Group has no intention to update this forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities law. This forward-looking information should not be relied upon as representing TMX Group's views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. TMX Group has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those current expectations described in forward-looking information. However, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended and that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from current expectations. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect TMX Group. Important additional information identifying risks and uncertainties and other factors is contained in TMX Group's 2025 Annual Report under the headings entitled "Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information" and "Enterprise Risk Management" which may be accessed at tmx.com in the Investor Relations section under Regulatory Filings.Non-GAAP Financial MeasuresThis press release includes references to financial measures that are not defined by GAAP. Although such non-GAAP measures are calculated according to accepted industry practice, such measures disclosed in this press release may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. This data is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. While TMX Group believes these measures provide investors with greater transparency and supplemental data relating to the transaction, readers are cautioned that these non-GAAP measures are not alternatives to measures determined in accordance with GAAP and should not, on their own, be construed as indicators of TMX Group's or Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia's future performance or profitability. Readers should not rely on any single financial measure when evaluating TMX Group's business or that of Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia. We use non-GAAP measures and non-GAAP ratios that do not have standardized meanings prescribed by GAAP and are, therefore, unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Management uses these measures, and excludes certain items, because it believes doing so provides investors a more effective analysis of underlying operating and financial performance, including, in some cases, our ability to generate cash and our ability to repay debt. Management also uses these measures to more effectively measure performance over time, and excluding these items increases comparability across periods. The exclusion of certain items does not imply that they are non-recurring or not useful to investors.Adjusted earnings per share provided above is a non-GAAP ratio and does not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and is therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. TMX Group presents Adjusted EPS and excludes, among other things, acquisition, integration, and related items; amortization of intangibles related to acquisitions; strategic re-alignment expenses; dispute, litigation and related items; and other items as disclosed in TMX Group's 2025 Annual Report. For more information on Adjusted EPS, including definitions and explanations of how these measures provide useful information, refer to Non-GAAP Measures in TMX Group's 2025 Annual Report.Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net income excluding interest expense, income tax expense, depreciation and amortization, acquisition, integration, and related costs, one-time income (loss), and other significant items that are not reflective of the underlying business operations of Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia. Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia Adjusted EBITDA is a compilation of financial information provided to us for Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia entities as of December 31, 2025. The Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia financial information is unaudited and prepared in accordance with IFRS (Cboe Canada) or Australian Accounting Standards (Cboe Australia) for public companies. Adjusted EBITDA for Cboe Canada and Cboe Australia excludes certain items such as discontinued operations, transfer pricing, unrealized gains / losses, and one-time employee costs.About TMX Group (TSX: X) TMX Group operates global markets, and builds digital communities and analytic solutions that facilitate the funding, growth and success of businesses, traders and investors. TMX Group's key operations include Toronto Stock Exchange, TSX Venture Exchange, TSX Alpha Exchange, The Canadian Depository for Securities, Montréal Exchange, Canadian Derivatives Clearing Corporation, TSX Trust, TMX Trayport, TMX Datalinx, TMX VettaFi and TMX Newsfile, which provide listing markets, trading markets, clearing facilities, depository services, technology solutions, data products and other services to the global financial community. TMX Group is headquartered in Toronto and operates offices across North America (Montréal, Calgary, Vancouver and New York), as well as in key international markets including London, Singapore, and Vienna. For more information about TMX Group, visit www.tmx.com. Follow TMX Group on X: @TMXGroup.For more information please contact:Catherine KeeHead of Media RelationsTMX Group416-671-1704catherine.kee@tmx.comAmanda TangHead of Investor RelationsTMX Group416-895-5848amanda.tang@tmx.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/293729 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Hengrui Pharma Reports Q1 2026 Results with Revenue and Net Profit Growth

HONG KONG, Apr 22, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hengrui Pharma reported steady growth in the first quarter of 2026. In Q1 2026, the Company recorded revenue of RMB 8.14 billion, up 12.98% year-over-year, while net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 21.78% to RMB 2.28 billion. Innovative drugs remained the key growth driver, generating RMB 4.53 billion in revenue, up 25.75% year-over-year and accounting for 61.69% of total pharmaceutical sales.The Company continued to advance its innovation-driven strategy with sustained R&D investment and solid pipeline progress. R&D investments in Q1 2026 totaled RMB 2.22 billion, representing for approximately 27.32% of revenue.During the period, three innovative products and new indications were approved in China, which included an anti-PD-L1/TGF-βRII bi-functional fusion protein and an indication expansion for HER2-targeting ADC.In terms of pipeline advancement, the Company obtained 26 clinical trial approvals and had 8 new drug applications accepted in China across key therapeutic areas including oncology, metabolic, cardiovascular, and immunological diseases.Business development has become a recurring and increasingly important growth driver, with RMB 787 million in out-licensing revenue recognized during the quarter, primarily from the collaboration with GSK. Since 2023, Hengrui Pharma has completed 12 overseas business development transactions, including out-licensing, NewCo structures, and strategic alliance models.A key milestone during the period was the successful Nasdaq listing of Kailera Therapeutics (NASDAQ: KLRA), a NewCo company built around Hengrui Pharma’s GLP-1-based assets. This milestone reflects continued progress in executing the Company’s NewCo strategy, with Hengrui and Kailera working together to advance the global development of the GLP-1 portfolio.Looking ahead, Hengrui Pharma will remain committed to innovation and globalization, strengthening its pipeline and advancing the development and commercialization of innovative therapies to benefit patients worldwide. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

FDJ United becomes latest casualty of rising gambling taxes across Europe

(AsiaGameHub) -   European gambling tax systems have prevented FDJ United from seeing any meaningful top-line revenue growth in Q1 2026, according to the French gaming behemoth. In the January-March period, even though gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached €2.1 billion (a 1% year-on-year increase), FDJ United noted its revenue fell 3% to €895 million—due to €24 million in gaming tax deductions—with an extra €90 million projected to affect its full-year 2026 results. Breaking down performance by segment, revenue decreased year-over-year (YoY) across all business lines except international lottery. This segment was the sole product to post growth—an impressive 7% YoY—totaling €41 million (compared to €38 million in Q1 2025). Online betting and gaming suffered the most significant decline, falling 7.7% YoY to €213 million (from €231 million in Q1 2025). French lottery and retail sports betting generated €627 million, a 2.1% drop from the prior corresponding period’s (pcp) €640 million. The Payment and Services segment decreased 7.2% YoY to €14 million (pcp: €16 million). It’s worth noting that France currently has Europe’s strictest gambling tax framework, which tightened further in July 2025 with the implementation of the updated Social Security Financing Act. This adjustment raised public levy rates for online sports betting from 54.9% to 59.3% of GGR. Point-of-sale public levies increased from 41.1% to 42.1% of GGR, while online poker levies jumped from 0.2% to 10% of GGR. Furthermore, public levies for Loto and Euromillions lottery games rose from 68% to 69% of GGR, and draw games and instant games experienced a hike from 55.5% to 56.5% of GGR. In the Netherlands, the second phase of a planned two-step tax increase pushed gambling taxes to 37.8% of GGR in January, up from the prior 34.2%. For the Dutch market in Q1, FDJ United’s GGR fell by 14.5% and its revenue decreased by 19.9%. In the UK, where FDJ United runs Unibet and 32red, the Remote Gaming Duty was drastically raised from 21% to 40% at the beginning of April. This is expected to further disrupt the company’s H1 2026 results, which are scheduled to be released on July 29. Even prior to this tax hike, FDJ United’s UK revenue had already declined by 24.1% YoY in the January-March period. To work toward its FY26 targets—including a recurring EBITDA margin of 23-24%, better annual performance in online betting and gaming, and a return to GGR growth in the second half of the year—FDJ United has named Dan Lévy as its new Chief Financial Officer, starting May 18. Stéphane Pallez, CEO of FDJ United, recapped the company’s Q1 performance and laid out its key priorities moving ahead. She stated: “Amid an environment still impacted by tax hikes and stricter gaming regulations, the Group is ramping up its focus on operational efficiency, synergies, and financial prudence. Our goal is to return to sustainable, value-driven growth starting in the second half of the year, for the benefit of all our stakeholders.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Newborn Town Reports Q1 2026 Revenue Above RMB 2 Billion, Up 33.0%–39.6% YoY

EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 22/04/2026 / 17:40 UTC+8 [Hong Kong – 22 April 2026] Newborn Town Inc. (Newborn Town or the company, stock code: 09911.HK), a leading global social entertainment company, released its unaudited operating data for the first quarter of 2026.   For the three months ended 31 March 2026, the company’s total revenue is estimated to reach RMB 2,030 million to RMB 2,130 million, reflecting a year-on-year increase of approximately 33.0% to 39.6%. Revenue from social networking business amounted to approximately RMB 1,785 million to RMB 1,865 million, representing a year-on-year increase of approximately 31.3% to 37.2%.   Revenue from innovative business recorded approximately RMB 245 million to RMB 265 million, representing a year-on-year growth of approximately 46.7% to 58.7%, maintaining strong growth momentum.   Social Networking Business Deepened Its Competitive Moat as Flagship Products Continue to Strengthen Market Leadership   According to the announcement, the steady growth of social networking business revenue was driven by the company’s continued global expansion and the deep integration of AI across the entire business chain, supporting the sustained growth of its flagship products.   In the first quarter of 2026, the company continued to advance its successful strategy of replicating its product operations and market expansion experiences, further strengthening its leadership in core markets such as the MENA region and Southeast Asia, while using flagship products as strategic pioneers to accelerate expansion into high-growth and high-value markets including Latin America, Europe, Japan, and South Korea, further enhancing its global social entertainment footprint.   In 2026, the Company’s flagship products continued to deliver strong performance. The game-oriented social platform TopTop further improved its market position across GCC countries. According to data from Sensor Tower, in Q1, TopTop ranked 6th in the social apps category on the App Store's revenue rankings for the Middle East.   In new markets, TopTop continued to expand its footprint. TopTop made solid progress in high-value markets such as Japan and Europe, ranking among the Top 10 free casual games on the Japanese App Store multiple times during the first quarter.   Meanwhile, TopTop continues to leverage its UGC-driven ecosystem to expand into developed markets. It has grown into a widely adopted app in GCC markets such as Saudi Arabia and ranks among the leading products in its category globally.   The company’s diverse-audience social networking business (LGBTQ) also maintained steady growth. HeeSay, the company’s global community platform for diverse audiences, further strengthened its presence in Southeast Asia, consistently ranking among the Top 10 grossing social apps on the App Store in countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines.   A research report by Huaxi Securities noted that social networking and gaming apps continue to outperform across downloads, user engagement, and monetization. With its expanding global footprint, Newborn Town is well positioned to continue benefiting from these long-term industry trends, further reinforcing the certainty of its long-term growth trajectory.   Innovative Business Gained Strong Momentum, with AI Driving Rapid Revenue Growth   The company’s innovative business also demonstrated strong growth momentum in the first quarter of 2026. According to the announcement, the growth in revenue from the innovative business segment was driven by the rapid expansion of the short drama business, supported by AI-powered content production and operations.   During the period, the company’s short drama business progressed steadily across multiple overseas markets including Europe and North America, validating its full-chain capabilities in content creation and blockbuster content incubation. Building on this foundation, Newborn Town is actively expanding into AI short dramas, leveraging AI technology to amplify content production, diversify genres, and optimize production costs, positioning short drama as a new growth engine for the innovative business.   Recently, the Company’s short-form drama business was officially integrated with Seedance 2.0, becoming one of its first partner platforms. At the same time, through joint operations with platforms such as TikTok, the global reach of its short-form content has continued to expand. According to TikTok’s first-quarter revenue-sharing report for short dramas, one of the Company’s hit titles ranked No. 2 on the platform by first-month revenue.   In recent years, the company has continued to deepen the application of AI technologies across core business scenarios, comprehensively empowering R&D, operations, and commercialization efficiency. Its self-developed multimodal algorithm model, Boomiix, continues to upgrade, improving the accuracy of social matching and the intelligence of operations.   The company’s Siyu AI, an internal data intelligence platform, significantly shortened turnaround times for data queries, anomaly analysis, and report generation. Its proprietary AI-powered design platform KIVI has also greatly enhanced both the efficiency and diversity of content production, including virtual gifts and marketing creatives. In addition, the company continued to expand into consumer-facing AI applications by launching Aippy, exploring new ways to create emotional value through AI. To date, Aippy has surpassed 2 million cumulative downloads. Beyond this, the Company has launched NUSD Pay, an AI agent-based payment solution, which has completed core system development and entered the commercialization stage.   The company announced to allocate approximately HK$ 300 million over the next two years for share repurchases, which may be used for the company’s employee equity incentive plans or cancellation in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and listing rules. The Board believes that implementing share repurchases under the current circumstances reflects confidence in the company’s long-term business outlook and will ultimately benefit the company while creating value for shareholders.   On 6 March, Newborn Town was officially included in the list of eligible securities under the Stock Connect, broadening access for mainland investors. Since its inclusion, the company has seen significantly stronger market attention and trading activity. As of April 21, its average daily trading value exceeded HKD 180 million, approximately doubling compared to the three months prior to inclusion. Following its inclusion in Stock Connect, the Company’s shareholder base has continued to diversify, while its market presence has further strengthened, providing solid support for its long-term growth.       About Newborn Town  Newborn Town has grown into a leading technology company which was listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) in 2019 under the stock code 9911.Committed to creating positive emotional value worldwide, Newborn Town has developed a diverse portfolio of applications in the social networking and entertainment sectors. Its social apps include MICO, YoHo, TopTop, SUGO and HeeSay, together with gaming products like Alice's Dream: Merge Games. These applications have achieved widespread acclaim, reaching over one billion users in over one hundred countries and regions.Newborn Town considers the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region a key market and has also extended its influence in Southeast Asia, Europe, the United States, Japan, and South Korea. The company aims to become the world's largest social entertainment company.      For enquiries, please contact  DLK Advisory   pr@dlkadvisory.com      22/04/2026 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

Trio New Energy and China Civil Thailand Sign Strategic MOU to Jointly Develop New Energy Projects in Thailand

EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 22/04/2026 / 17:17 UTC+8 (Hong Kong – 22 April 2026) Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited (“Trio Industrial” or the “Group”; stock code: 1710), a leading manufacturer and distributor of advanced industrial electronic components and products in Hong Kong, today announced its subsidiary, Trio New Energy (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd. (“Trio New Energy”) and China Civil Group (Thailand) Limited (“China Civil Thailand”) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) in Thailand to establish a strategic collaboration framework for developing new energy projects in the Thai market. As Thailand accelerates its energy transition and transportation electrification, demand for green power, distributed energy storage and clean mobility solutions continues to grow. Trio New Energy brings strong capabilities in integrated new energy solutions and product manufacturing, while China Civil Thailand has an extensive track record and project pipeline in local green infrastructure and green industrial park development. The Parties will combine their respective strengths as soon as possible, capture the new energy opportunities in Thailand and surrounding countries. According to the MOU, the Parties are currently engaged in commercial discussions on new energy projects in Thailand, with a primary cooperation model of leveraging their combined quality resources to jointly develop the local new energy industry.   Mr. Cecil Wong, the Chairman of Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited said, “China Civil Group (Thailand) has deep experience and strong execution capabilities in infrastructure and park development across Thailand, with an extensive portfolio of high-quality projects. Through this MOU, we aim to combine Trio New Energy’s expertise in integrated source-grid-load-storage solutions, new energy product development and localized manufacturing with China Civil Thailand’s project resources and local operating strengths. Together, we seek to develop flagship projects in green parks, green mobility and comprehensive energy solutions that can serve as showcases for Thailand’s low-carbon transition. Looking ahead, Trio New Energy will advance pilot and benchmark projects in a pragmatic and step-by-step manner to create long-term and sustainable value for both parties.” Mr. Bin Zheng, Spokesperson of China Civil Group (Thailand) Limited mentioned, “Trio New Energy brings proven technology and manufacturing capabilities in the new energy sector, enabling competitive green energy and e-mobility solutions tailored to the Thai market. The signing of this MOU marks an important starting point for our collaboration on new energy projects in Thailand. We look forward to working closely with Trio New Energy to achieve early breakthroughs in our three initial focus areas –  green industrial park , green campuses and new energy support for benchmark transportation hubs. Over time, we hope to build scalable and replicable cooperation models in Thailand and explore broader collaboration opportunities along the ‘Belt and Road’ markets.”   - End -   About Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited (Stock Code: 1710.HK) Trio Group is a leading Hong Kong-based manufacturer and supplier of advanced industrial electronic components and products, with over 40 years of industry expertise. Specialising in power supply solutions, the group serves key sectors such as energy efficiency and medical electronics. As the first Hong Kong electronics supplier to achieve Industry 4.0 maturity certificate - industry 4.0 1i level. Trio Group integrates smart manufacturing and innovative technologies to deliver high-performance solutions, earning a strong reputation as a trusted partner for numerous globally recognised brands, primarily in Europe and North America. In response to the growing emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles and the urgent demand for decarbonisation, Trio Group is strategically expanding into the renewable energy sector through its proprietary brand, Deltrix. The company is actively developing solutions in: EV charging infrastructure Solar energy storage systems Smart power management Charging network deployment   With a focus on Central Asia and Southeast Asia, Trio Group is committed to advancing green technology innovation, positioning itself as a key player in the global energy transition while driving sustainable business growth. By leveraging its technical expertise and forward-looking strategies, the group continues to reinforce its role in shaping a low-carbon future. This press release is issued by DLK Advisory Limited on behalf of Trio Industrial Electronics Group Limited.    For further information, please contact: DLK Advisory 金通策略   Email: pr@dlkadvisory.com Tel: +852 2857 7101   22/04/2026 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

At the Forefront of Green Transportation: A Deep Dive into Smart Green Mobility Share Inc.’s (SGM.s) Globalization Strategy

New York, NY – April 22, 2026 – (SeaPRwire) – Against the global backdrop of pursuing “Net-Zero Emissions,” the micromobility market is experiencing explosive growth. As a dark horse in this field, Smart Green Mobility Share Inc. (SGM.s) has become a focal point of industry attention, thanks to its unique “Global Industrial Integration” model and rapid pace of expansion. From Pure Operations to Ecosystem Empowerment  Unlike traditional bike-sharing companies, SGM.s is not content with being just a vehicle operator. In 2026, SGM.s took a critical step by launching its “Global Industrial Resource Integration Plan.” This strategy marks SGM.s’s transformation into an “Integrated Mobility Ecosystem Provider.” By consolidating top-tier upstream manufacturing resources and downstream global distribution channels, SGM.s is breaking the stalemate of long, inefficient chains in the traditional mobility industry. It does not just export products; it exports standardized intelligent systems (AI+IoT) and global operational expertise, providing partners with one-stop “Turn-key” solutions. Core Competitive Advantages: Digital Operations and Deep User Engagement  The secret to SGM.s’s success lies in its ultimate pursuit of “efficiency”: AI-Driven Grid Management: Relying on its self-developed intelligent system, SGM can accurately predict vehicle demand across different time slots and locations. This predictive deployment significantly reduces vehicle idle rates, leading the industry in per-unit profitability. Innovative Value-Sharing Mechanism: SGM’s “Online Vehicle Deployment Program” breaks the traditional boundaries between the enterprise and the user. Users are not just consumers; they are maintainers and beneficiaries of the ecosystem. This high level of user stickiness not only lowers operation and maintenance costs but also garners broader social support and brand loyalty for the company. Impressive Results: The “SGM.s Speed” of Global Expansion  To date, SGM.s’s footprint spans over 280 cities worldwide. Scale Effect: 300,000 vehicles in operation form a solid competitive moat. Environmental Contribution: The cumulative reduction in carbon emissions has become the company’s most persuasive ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) calling card, giving it a natural advantage in securing international green capital. Conclusion: Reshaping the Boundaries of Future Mobility Essentially, SGM.s is utilizing advanced digital technology to empower traditional transportation. As the 2026 Industrial Integration Plan moves forward, SGM.s is poised to take a more dominant position in the future landscape of shared transportation. For observers and investors, SGM.s represents more than just a shared mobility platform; it embodies a future business paradigm of “Green Energy + Digital Intelligence + Global Collaboration.” Company link: https://sgmpw.com/#/register/7665222 Media contact Organization: Smart Green Mobility Share Inc Connect: SGM.s Team Email: support@sgm.lol Website: https://sgm.lol

MHI Marine Machinery & Equipment and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Obtain Approval in Principle (AiP) for the Basic Design of a Methane Oxidation Catalyst System for Marine LNG-Fueled Engines from Classification Society ClassNK

TOKYO, Apr 22, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Marine Machinery & Equipment Co., Ltd. (MHI-MME) and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., both part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, have obtained Approval in Principle (AiP)(1) from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) for the basic design of a methane oxidation catalyst system for marine LNG (liquefied natural gas)-fueled engines(2), jointly developed with Daihatsu Infinearth Mfg. Co., Ltd. A presentation ceremony was held today at Sea Japan 2026, an international maritime exhibition being held at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto-ku, Tokyo.The methane oxidation catalyst system subject to the AiP oxidizes methane slip (unburned methane) contained in the exhaust gas of marine engines. Methane has a high global warming potential among greenhouse gases (GHGs),(3) and therefore the ability to suppress its emissions is a significant advantage of this system. The system was developed with MHI-MME's catalyst design and manufacturing technology at its core, combined with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding's shipboard installation technology, and Daihatsu Infinearth's engine optimization technology.Verification testing of the catalyst system is currently being conducted in cooperation with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), with a full-scale demonstrator mounted on the KEYS Azalea, an LNG bunkering vessel(4) owned and operated by KEYS Bunkering West Japan Ltd. (KEYS). Initial measurements during the verification testing confirmed the expected performance of the exhaust gas treatment equipment, achieving a methane oxidation rate of more than 90% for the system alone.Following the acquisition of AiP and the confirmation of the expected performance through verification on an actual ship (initial measurements), the partner companies plan to further accelerate development toward commercialization of the system.MHI Group is making strategic efforts to strengthen its energy transition business. As part of this strategy, MHI-MME and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding will continue their efforts to reduce GHG emissions from marine vessels amid the growing global urgency for decarbonization, thereby contributing to the improvement of the environmental performance of ships on a global scale.(1) Approval in Principle (AiP) indicates that a certification body has reviewed the basic design of the subject equipment and confirmed that it meets technical requirements and relevant safety standards.(2) Methane oxidation is a chemical reaction in which methane (CH4) is converted into carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) through reaction with oxygen.(3) Greenhouse gases (GHGs) include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). The catalyst system for this demonstration test only targets methane slip.(4) LNG bunkering vessels are small ships that supply LNG fuel to LNG-fueled vessels.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Sky Betting and Gaming data consent case sent back to High Court

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sky Betting and Gaming (SBG) has won the right to appeal a 2025 High Court decision related to marketing materials sent to an individual who identifies as a problem gambler. The Court of Appeal, led by Lord Justice Warby, found that the January 2025 High Court judgment from Justice Collins Rice relied on an incorrect legal approach regarding the evidence required to confirm a data subject had provided consent. The High Court case RTM v Bonne Terre Limited & Anor concluded last year, with Justice Rice ruling that the claimant—referred to as RTM—had not given legally valid consent for the collection of their personal data. RTM was later sent direct marketing messages based on SBG’s cookie placement and data gathering. Between 2007 and 2019, RTM gambled on SBG’s platform and lost £45,000, a figure disclosed publicly last year. SBG immediately stated its intention to appeal the decision and subsequently filed an appeal on five separate grounds. During the process, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) intervened to provide guidance to the court on the topic of consent for data collection. “We’re glad the Court of Appeal has sided with us. This is a crucial decision not just for Sky Bet but for the entire industry,” a Flutter UK&I representative told SBC News. “We take pride in our industry-leading focus on customer safety and remain fully dedicated to protecting players.” Debating data consent SBG’s primary argument was against Justice Rice’s claim that “consent is subjective, not objective” and that RTM could not have given consent due to being a problem gambler. According to Justice Warby’s interpretation of UK GDPR regulations, a data controller like SBG must demonstrate that a data subject (RTM) provided an “indication” of their preferences for data processing related to direct marketing. This indication is based on objective criteria: the user’s consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and unambiguous. “The data controller does not have to prove what the individual data subject was actually thinking at the time of the ‘indication’,” the court’s ruling stated. “For this purpose, it is neither necessary nor relevant to investigate whether the individual data subject was vulnerable or had an impaired ability to make fully autonomous decisions.” The ruling essentially found that SBG could not have been aware at the time that RTM’s problem gambling might have influenced their decision to give consent. With all five of SBG’s appeal grounds approved, the case will now be returned to the High Court. “This is an important and sensible judgment,” said Patrick Rennie, Partner and Head of Data Protection at Wiggin LLP—the law firm representing SBG in the appeal. “Data controllers need to understand what data protection laws require of them and how to comply. The original judgment left controllers, particularly operators, in an impossible situation similar to strict liability. “The Court of Appeal’s decision brings greater clarity, allowing controllers to focus on delivering services in a compliant and confident way.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Luxury NEV Maker Seres Delivers Sustained Profitability and Strong Dividends

HONG KONG, Apr 22, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Recently, Seres Group (9927.HK), a leading luxury new energy vehicle (NEV) enterprise in China, officially released its 2025 annual results. During the Reporting Period, the Company recorded revenue of approximately RMB164.89 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 13.63% and reaching a new record high. Net profit attributable to shareholders amounted to approximately RMB5.96 billion, marking the second consecutive year of profitability. These strong results underscore the Company’s high-quality growth trajectory and highlight its resilience and core competitiveness in the luxury NEV segment.The massive product sales volume is the most direct and powerful testament to Seres’ market competitiveness. In 2025, AITO, the luxury brand under Seres, achieved a cumulative annual delivery volume of over 420,000 units. Among these, annual deliveries of the AITO M9 exceeded 110,000 units, securing its position as the sales champion in the RMB500,000+ price luxury car market for two consecutive years in 2024 and 2025; the AITO M8 recorded annual deliveries of over 150,000 units, firmly holding the top spot on the sales charts for RMB400,000+ price models since its launch; and the AITO M7 delivered over 110,000 units for the year, winning the title of “National SUV of the Year.” This highlights the AITO brand’s formidable brand strength and high user recognition in the luxury NEV market.A comprehensive business layout serves as a vital cornerstone and reliable safeguard for Seres to withstand market fluctuations and achieve sustainable growth. In 2025, the Company firmly implemented its dual-strategy layout of range-extension electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles, which closely aligns with the diversified demands of the NEV market, enabling all-round breakthroughs amid fierce competition. Seres ranked first in China’s range-extension segment with a market share of 37.5%. Meanwhile, the sales proportion of its battery electric models continued to rise, forming a sound development pattern in which technical strength and market competitiveness improved in tandem.Generous and steady dividends reflect Seres’ commitment to rewarding shareholders and sharing development achievements, and also serve as a tangible demonstration of the Company’s sound operation. In 2025, the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend for the year ended 31 December 2025 of RMB0.8 per share (tax inclusive), representing a total proposed cash dividend of approximately RMB1.9 billion. This initiative actively rewards the trust and support of all shareholders, reflects the Company’s firm confidence in its future development, and further strengthens investors’ expectations for the Company’s long-term growth.Excellent ESG performance serves as a fundamental underpinning of Seres’ high-quality development and a core competitiveness for the Company’s sustainable growth. In 2025, the Company continued to deepen its ESG governance, integrating ESG philosophy across the full chain of production and operations, R&D and innovation, and supply chain management. Through concrete actions, Seres is advancing the synergistic development of the enterprise, society and the environment.Leveraging robust ESG management practices and remarkable sustainability achievements, Seres was awarded the highest AAA rating by MSCI, demonstrating its corporate value through responsibility and accountability.Driven by technological innovation, guided by customer value, and committed to sustainable development, Seres made steady progress in the luxury NEV segment in 2025, achieving comprehensive advancements in business performance, brand strength, technological capability, and ESG performance. Looking ahead, Seres will continue to deepen its dual-track strategy of range-extension electric and battery electric vehicles, further increase R&D investment, and accelerate technological iteration and product innovation. The Company is committed to continuously leading the upgrade of China’s luxury NEV industry and creating greater value for customers, shareholders, and society. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

59 Years On, A Surreal Crime Thriller Masterpiece Is Set For A Major Upgrade

Herbert Dorfman/Corbis Historical/Getty Images(SeaPRwire) -   Los Angeles frequently serves as a backdrop for films, often portrayed as a sunny haven adorned with palm trees and populated by attractive individuals in swimwear. Even darker L.A. narratives, such as David Lynch’s acclaimed Mulholland Drive, manage to find beauty in its bright sunshine and blossoming flora. However, Point Blank offers a starkly different vision. Helmed by British newcomer John Boorman and featuring Hollywood’s quintessential tough guy, Lee Marvin, Point Blank presents L.A. as a striking yet desolate expanse of concrete and reflective surfaces. Its cold, sharp modernist lines mirror the violent alienation experienced by its inhabitants. Critic Mark Harris notes Boorman’s “alien’s keen eye” for the city, which he renders in muted tones of dirty grayish white and unsettling orange and green. The narrative itself is both familiar and foreign: The protagonist, Walker (Lee Marvin), is inspired by the “Parker” character from Donald E. Westlake’s popular pulp novel series. Yet, Boorman’s fragmented, kaleidoscopic direction and Marvin’s reserved, almost silent portrayal transform the typically intense pulp genre into something far more enigmatic. Walker embarks on a revenge mission against a shadowy criminal organization known as “The Organization.” They betrayed him and left him for dead, and now he demands what he believes is owed to him: $93,000. In cash. He is prepared to kill anyone who stands in his way. How Was Point Blank Received Upon Its Release?Upon its initial release, Point Blank garnered a mixed reception. It captivated admirers of French auteurs like Jean-Pierre Melville, who redefined crime cinema in the early 1960s, drawing inspiration from the same films noir that influenced director John Boorman’s second feature. In this sense, Point Blank acts as a reflective surface, with a British director reinterpreting European cinematic innovations and projecting them back onto Hollywood.Despite its stylized editing and non-linear narrative not being entirely new—both were hallmarks of the French New Wave, which was reasonably well-known in America by 1967—Point Blank still drew criticism from more traditional reviewers. Bosley Crowther of The New York Times (what a name!) famously described it as “lurid, tawdry, and sleazy” with “no considerate moral sense,” adding, “holy smokes, what a . . . calculatedly sadistic film it is!” Crowther’s assessment isn't entirely unfounded; the film’s dispassionate portrayal of its stark violence does amplify its brutality. However, he overlooks the dreamlike surrealism Boorman weaves into the story, with its temporal shifts and peculiar, seemingly disconnected details that leave the audience questioning the reality of events by the film’s conclusion. The movie observes its violence with a detached pleasure, simply moving on. Why Is Point Blank Important to See Now? Sharon Acker’s trancelike performance feels very modern in the age of dissociation. | United Archives/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesThe nihilistic influence of Point Blank can be seen in contemporary films such as John Wick, another story about a violent yet quiet man driven by a singular, deeply personal quest that others struggle to comprehend. A late-film exchange between Marvin’s Walker and “Organization” executive Brewster (Carroll O’Connor) could easily be mistaken for dialogue from Chad Stahelski’s movie:Brewster: What do you really want? Walker: I really want my money. Point Blank’s ethereal, detached quality was also remarkably ahead of its time. Throughout the film, characters—especially women—drift in a trance-like state, their eyes vacant and unfocused, reminiscent of what The New York Times recently termed the “Gen Z pout.” Marvin himself maintains a stoic presence, speaking little and displaying no emotion. In one of the film’s most iconic scenes, co-star Angie Dickinson erupts in anger, slapping and hitting Marvin with her purse and fists until she collapses from exhaustion. He remains unresponsive.In an era where cultivated detachment and an “over-it” dissociation are fashionable, Point Blank feels remarkably current. What New Features Does Criterion’s 4K UHD Disc Have? Point Blank is set to join the Criterion Collection in April 2026, offering a significant upgrade from previous releases with a new 4K restoration of the film personally overseen by director John Boorman. The special features comprise a mix of new and existing materials, including fresh insights on the film from Jim Jarmusch (Father Mother Sister Brother). New 4K digital restoration, supervised and approved by director John Boorman, with uncompressed monaural soundtrackOne 4K UHD disc of the film presented in Dolby Vision HDR and one Blu-ray with the film and special featuresAudio commentary featuring Boorman and filmmaker Steven SoderberghInterview with Boorman conducted by author Geoff DyerNew interview with critic Mark HarrisNew reflections on Point Blank by filmmaker Jim JarmuschNew program on the midcentury Los Angeles architecture featured in the film, with historian Alison MartinoThe Rock (1967), a short documentary on Alcatraz and the making of the filmInterview with Marvin from a 1970 episode of The Dick Cavett ShowPoint Blank is available now from The Criterion Collection. Point Blank (The Criterion Collection) Blu-rayAmazon - This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.

NEC Receives Company of the Year recognition in Global Biometric Solutions from Frost & Sullivan

TOKYO, Apr 22, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) becomes the first company in the biometrics industry to receive Frost & Sullivan’s Global Biometric Solutions Company of the Year recognition(1), underscoring its leadership and innovation.Frost & Sullivan(2) bestows Best Practices Awards annually to companies that have achieved outstanding performance in their respective industries based on a rigorous analytical process. This year, NEC has been honored with the most prestigious award, the Company of the Year Award.For this Global Biometric Solutions Award, Frost & Sullivan analysts independently assessed NEC based on two criteria:Visionary Innovation & PerformanceAddressing Unmet Needs; Visionary Scenarios Through Megatrends; Leadership Focus; Best Practices Implementation; and Financial PerformanceCustomer ImpactPrice/Performance Value; Customer Purchase Experience; Customer Ownership Experience; Customer Service Experience; and Brand EquityTara Semon, Security Industry Analyst, Frost & Sullivan, said, "NEC’s achievements reflect a rare blend of technical excellence, ethical leadership, and customer-centric innovation. From pioneering multimodal authentication and ear acoustic to championing self-sovereign identity and responsible AI usage, the company has consistently delivered solutions that meet the evolving needs of a global market."Its deployments across public safety, education, and consumer experiences demonstrate the versatility and impact of its technologies. NEC’s commitment to research, ethics, and global expansion positions it as a beacon of excellence in the biometric solutions industry."In the future, NEC will continue to focus on replacing physical identity verification methods and physical security, as well as accelerating the development and provision of solutions that can be adapted to new use cases in an ever-growing digital society.NEC is thoroughly committed to following the NEC Group AI and Human Rights Principles(3) in its use of AI, biometric data, and other data, placing the highest priority on privacy and respect for human rights.NEC offers end-to-end digital transformation (DX) services, from strategy and concept consulting to implementation-focused offerings, based on the three pillars of business models, technology, and organization/talent. Additionally, in its shift from a traditional systems integrator to a "Value Driver," NEC restructured its value creation model under the name "NEC BluStellar"(4), which leverages NEC's cutting-edge technologies, developed and refined through years of experience and proven cross-industry expertise, aiming to transform business models, address social challenges, resolve management issues faced by customers, and lead them into a brighter future.For more information about third-party recognition of NEC’s biometric authentication, please visit here.(1) Frost & Sullivan Best Practices 2026 Recognition Recipients(2) Frost & Sullivan - The Transformational Growth Company(3) "NEC Group AI and Human Rights Principles" https://www.nec.com/en/press/201904/global_20190402_01.html(4) NEC BluStellar is a value creation model that leverages NEC’s cutting-edge technologies, developed and refined through years of experience and proven cross-industry expertise. It aims to transform business models, address social challenges, resolve management issues faced by customers, and lead them into a brighter future.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.  Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

Everest Medicines Announces Positive First-in-Human Data for Personalized mRNA Cancer Vaccine EVM16 at AACR 2026

HONG KONG, Apr 22, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Apr 20, Everest Medicines announced that the first-in-human (FIH) clinical trial data of EVM16, a proprietary personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, were presented at the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research  Annual Meeting (AACR 2026). The data include results from EVM16 as  a monotherapy and in combination with the PD-1 inhibitor tislelizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors. The results demonstrated that EVM16 has a favorable safety and tolerability profile, robust immunogenicity, and promising preliminary efficacy in patients with advanced solid tumors, supporting its further clinical development.The clinical trial (EVM16CX01, NCT06541639) was conducted jointly by Peking University Cancer Hospital and Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, with the first patient dosed in March 2025. EVM16CX01 is a first-in-human (FIH), dose-escalation, and expansion study evaluating the safety, tolerability, immunogenicity, and preliminary efficacy of EVM16 injection as a monotherapy and in combination with tislelizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors. The study follows a 3+3 dose-escalation design across three dose levels (0.1 mg, 0.3 mg, and 1.0 mg). Eligible patients are those with advanced or recurrent solid tumors who have failed standard of care and have at least one measurable target lesion. Patients receive 2 doses of EVM16 monotherapy once every two weeks, followed by combination therapy of EVM16 and tislelizumab. As of December 7, 2025, a total of 9 patients had been enrolled.No dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed. All patients experienced at least one investigational product (IP) related adverse event (AE), all of which were Grade ≤ 2 and resolved spontaneously. EVM16 elicited strong neoantigen-specific T cell responses in 8 of 9 patients, which showed a dose-dependent trend. A gastroesophageal junction cancer patient who failed 3 prior lines of systemic therapy achieved a confirmed partial response and a PFS of 126 days. Another 2 patients achieved stable disease. A non-small cell lung cancer patient who failed 3 prior lines of systemic therapy achieved a PFS of 88 days, and an esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patient who failed 3 prior lines of systemic therapy has been followed up for 112 days to date and has not experienced disease progression.“As a novel personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, EVM16 has demonstrated encouraging clinical development potential in its first-in-human clinical trial,” said Professor Shen Lin, Director of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Department at Beijing Cancer Hospital and Chair of the Gastric Cancer Expert Committee of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology. “The data show a favorable safety and tolerability profile in patients with advanced solid tumors, with no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) observed. Importantly, EVM16 stimulated neoantigen-specific T cell responses with a dose-dependent trend, highlighting its consistent immune activation capability. Preliminary anti-tumor activity signals, including partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD), were observed in patients who had failed multiple lines of standard-of-care therapies, suggesting potential clinical activity. These findings provide early clinical validation of EVM16 and reinforce its differentiated mechanism as a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine. While immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors, have transformed the treatment landscape in selected tumor types, most patients, particularly those with heavily pretreated advanced solid tumors, still represent a significant unmet medical need. Personalized mRNA cancer vaccines represented by EVM16 may help expand the population benefiting from immunotherapy and provide additional treatment options.” “The favorable safety, tolerability, immunogenicity, and preliminary efficacy results for EVM16 provide initial evidence of its therapeutic potential and support the clinical value of our in-house mRNA platform,” said Mr. Rogers Yongqing Luo, Chief Executive Officer of Everest Medicines. “Patients with advanced solid tumors, particularly those who have failed multiple lines of therapy, continue to suffer from limited treatment options. As our first in-house developed personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, EVM16 demonstrates the ability to induce immune activation and generate neoantigen-specific T cell responses, which may help reduce the risk of tumor metastasis or recurrence. This further underscores its potential as a novel approach in cancer immunotherapy. This project is powered by EVER-NEO-1, Everest’s proprietary AI-based neoantigen prediction algorithm. It analyzes patient-specific tumor mutations to identify highly immunogenic neoantigens and support the design of personalized mRNA vaccine candidates. The algorithm incorporates iterative learning capabilities designed to continuously improve neoantigen prediction accuracy and selection efficiency. Leveraging our leading mRNA platform, we will continue to advance the clinical development of EVM16 and bring this innovative therapy to more patients.”Everest Medicines has localized its clinically validated proprietary AI+mRNA platform, establishing an end-to-end integrated platform spanning antigen design, mRNA sequence optimization, lipid nanoparticles (LNP) targeted delivery and scalable manufacturing, with the potential to address significant unmet medical needs globally.EVM16 is a novel personalized therapeutic mRNA cancer vaccine in-house developed by Everest. It contains neoantigens with high immunogenicity potential, predicted based on the unique tumor mutations of each patient using Everest’s proprietary AI-based neoantigen prediction algorithm, EVER-NEO-1. The vaccine is designed to encode dozens of tumor neoantigens. The vaccine uses a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery system to efficiently deliver neoantigen-encoded mRNA in vivo, activating neoantigen-specific tumor-killing T cells and inhibiting tumor growth.From an investment and market perspective, personalized cancer vaccines are in an early stage of breakthrough. According to Grand View Research, the global personalized cancer vaccine market is projected to reach $1.45 billion by 2030, with a staggering compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 44.86% from 2025 to 2030. Myguide Securities points out that mRNA cancer vaccines have the potential to achieve pan-cancer coverage while offering the advantages of high accessibility, “off-the-shelf” availability, and personalization. As a highly promising new form of immunotherapy, it can enter clinical use as adjuvant therapies through extensive combinations, gradually unlocking a market space worth tens of billions of dollars.Against this backdrop, Everest Medicines is accelerating its strategic positioning in this field, progressively building a research and development pipeline with global competitiveness. Leveraging its proprietary AI+mRNA platform and its leading clinical position in China, Everest Medicines is currently at a critical juncture for industrialization and valuation growth. The upcoming readout of first-in-human (FIH) clinical trial data for EVM16 is expected to further release clinical and commercial potential, continuing to attract focus from the market and investors, and helping the company achieve a significant leap in value within the immunotherapy sector. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com