CHICAGO and AUCKLAND, New Zealand, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mérieux NutriSciences, a global leader in food safety, quality, and sustainability, and AsureQuality, New Zealand's premier food assurance provider, are pleased to announce the official launch of their joint venture, Mérieux NutriSciences AQ (MNAQ). The formation of MNAQ follows the successful completion of Mérieux NutriSciences' acquisition of Bureau Veritas' worldwide food testing activities, including its stake in the BVAQ joint ventures in Southeast Asia and Australia.

Mérieux NutriSciences and AsureQuality Announce the Official Launch of Mérieux NutriSciences AQ (MNAQ) Joint Venture

With the transaction having officially closed in Southeast Asia in January 2025 and now finalized in Australia as of May 31st 2025, MNAQ is fully established and poised to become a leading provider of food testing, assurance, and sustainability solutions in both regions.

Kim Ballinger, CEO of AsureQuality, highlighted the strategic significance of the partnership: 
"We are excited to officially launch MNAQ, reinforcing our commitment to delivering trusted food assurance services to the industry in Australia and Southeast Asia. This partnership with Mérieux NutriSciences strengthens our ability to support New Zealand exporters in key global markets and drive innovation in food safety and quality."

Nicolas Cartier, CEO of Mérieux NutriSciences, echoed this enthusiasm: 
"The completion of this joint venture marks an important milestone in our global growth strategy and purpose. By combining our scientific expertise and deep industry knowledge, and leveraging a team of over 700 talented employees, MNAQ is uniquely positioned to serve our customers across the food value chain with high-value, science-based solutions. Together with our partners at AsureQuality, we are proud to contribute to safer, more sustainable food systems across Southeast Asia and Australia, and beyond."

As MNAQ moves forward, it will focus on delivering innovative, science-driven solutions to support food industry players in the region. With a strong foundation built on technical excellence and a shared commitment to food integrity and customer-centricity, the joint venture aims to set new benchmarks for food assurance in Southeast Asia and Australia.

About Mérieux NutriSciences:
Mérieux NutriSciences leverages over 50 years of scientific and entrepreneurial expertise to answer food industry needs. Today's global challenges transform the way food is produced, marketed and consumed, which is why we know our clients need more than reliable analytical results; they need practical and innovative solutions that will contribute to make food systems safer, healthier and more sustainable. Present worldwide, we have more than 140 accredited laboratories and a team of over 10,000 talented employees. We strongly believe that together, we can create solutions to offer our planet: BETTER FOOD. BETTER HEALTH. BETTER WORLD. www.merieuxnutrisciences.com 

About AsureQuality:
AsureQuality is a New Zealand government-owned entity providing integrated, end-to-end food assurance and services to the food and primary production sectors. With a scientific and agricultural heritage spanning 150 years, AsureQuality has built a trusted reputation for delivering expert services and value across the entire food supply chain. www.asurequality.com 

If the Offeror acquires 90% or more of the total number of Shares (whether through valid acceptances pursuant to the Offer or otherwise), the Offeror will be entitled to exercise its right under Section 215(1) of the Companies Act 1967 of Singapore to compulsorily acquire all the Shares from shareholders of Ban Leong ("Shareholders") who have not accepted the Offer at a price equal to the offer price of S$0.6029. The Offeror will then proceed to delist Ban Leong from the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited, if the minimum free float requirement is not met.

Shareholders who wish to accept the Offer should submit the relevant acceptance form(s) by the close of the Offer at 5:30 p.m. (Singapore time) on July 2, 2025 (or such later date(s) as may be announced from time to time by the Offeror). Further details of the procedures for acceptance of the Offer are set out in Appendix 2 to the Offer Document dated May 21, 2025.

This press release should be read in conjunction with the full text of the announcement filed by the Company on a Form 6-K, on May 27, 2025, available on the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") website at www.sec.gov.

No Offer or Solicitation

This news release is for information purposes only and is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, an offer, invitation or the solicitation of an offer or invitation to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities, or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, pursuant to the proposed transaction or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

About GCL Global Holdings Ltd.

GCL Global Holdings Ltd. leverages its diverse portfolio of digital and physical content to bridge cultures and audiences by introducing Asian-developed IP to a global audience across consoles, PCs, and streaming platforms.

Learn more at http://www.gclglobalholdings.com.

About GCL Global Pte. Ltd. ("GGPL")

GCL Global Pte. Ltd. unites people through immersive games and entertainment experiences, enabling creators to deliver engaging content and fun gameplay experiences to gaming communities worldwide with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Asian gaming market. It is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of GCL Global Holdings Ltd.

About Epicsoft Asia Pte. Ltd.

Epicsoft Asia Pte. Ltd. ("Epicsoft Asia"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of GCL Global Pte. Ltd., is a premier distributor of interactive entertainment software. With a robust network and a proven track record of successful game launches, Epicsoft Asia is dedicated to bringing premier gaming experiences to players across Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia.

About Ban Leong Technologies Limited

Ban Leong Technologies was incorporated in Singapore on 18 June 1993 and was listed on the Main Board of the Singapore Stock Exchange on 23 June 2005. The principal activities of the company and its subsidiaries are the wholesale and distribution of computer peripherals, accessories and other multimedia products. It distributes a wide range of technology products, with key segments that include IT accessories, gaming, multimedia, smart technology and commercial products. The company is headquartered in Singapore with regional offices in Malaysia and Thailand.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and may be identified by the use of words such as "estimate," "plan," "project," "forecast," "intend," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "seek," "target" or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements may also include, but are not limited to, statements regarding projections, estimates and forecasts of revenue and other financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and expectations, the estimated implied enterprise value of the Company, GCL's ability to scale and grow its business, the advantages and expected growth of the Company, and the Company's ability to source and retain talent. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of GCL's management and are not predictions of actual performance.

These statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Although GCL believes that it has a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement contained in this press release, GCL cautions you that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known and projections of the future, which are inherently uncertain. In addition, there are risks and uncertainties described in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Registration Statement relating to the recent business combination, filed by the Company with the SEC on December 31, 2024 and other documents filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. These filings may identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. GCL cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this press release will prove to be accurate. There may be additional risks that GCL presently knows or that GCL currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In light of the significant uncertainties in these forward-looking statements, nothing in this press release should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. The forward-looking statements in this press release represent the views of GCL as of the date of this press release. Subsequent events and developments may cause those views to change. However, while GCL may update these forward-looking statements in the future, there is no current intention to do so, except to the extent required by applicable law. You should, therefore, not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing the views of GCL as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Except as may be required by law, GCL does not undertake any duty to update these forward-looking statements.

Directors' Responsibility Statement pursuant to the Singapore Code on Take-overs and Mergers

The sole director of the Offeror and the directors of GGPL (including those who may have delegated detailed supervision of the preparation of this press release) have taken all reasonable care to ensure that the facts stated and all opinions expressed in this press release are fair and accurate and that there are no other material facts not contained in this press release, the omission of which would make any statement in this press release misleading, and they jointly and severally accept responsibility accordingly. 

Where any information has been extracted or reproduced from published or otherwise publicly available sources or obtained from Ban Leong (including without limitation, relating to Ban Leong and its subsidiaries), the sole responsibility of the sole director of the Offeror and the directors of GGPL has been to ensure, through reasonable enquiries, that such information is accurately and correctly extracted from such sources or, as the case may be, accurately reflected or reproduced in this press release.

Since 2024, leveraging its longstanding advantages and extensive experience in the "education + technology + medical care", Neutech Group has been driving continuous technological innovation to build a new vision for the integrated development of "education-healthcare-wellness and mind tour". In the field of full-time higher education, relying on its strong industrial background and technological resource advantages, the Group has established three IT application-oriented undergraduate universities in Dalian, Chengdu and Foshan, cultivating over 170,000 IT applied talents for society. In the field of educational resource services, the Group empowers more than 700 universities and vocational colleges across China with first-class educational products and services. In the field of medical and health care, the Group actively expands medical and health care services by leveraging high-end medical rehabilitation resources, including its subsidiaries cardiovascular hospital, stomatology hospital and Wecare Family Nursing Home, as well as the upcoming Ruikang Rehabilitation Hospital. In the field of lifelong education and health technology, the Group closely addresses the personalized needs of seniors in learning, social engagement, and health. The Group established the Neuedu Phoenix Academy senior education brand and built a distinctive whole-lifecycle elderly health service system, while integrating its new practice of integrated development in "education-healthcare-wellness and mind tour" with Neutech's city-level smart elderly care platform, and creating a new smart eldercare ecosystem that combines online and offline services by integrating the needs of home-based, community-based, and institutional elderly care.

Through equity investment in Xikang Wellness & Resorts, the Group will harness the power of its nationwide network of hotels to deepen collaboration and synergy between Xikang Wellness & Resorts and elderly education business, which will promote mutual benefits and win-win outcomes for both parties, integrating wellness tourism, senior study tours, and educational practices to establish a comprehensive elderly education model of "learning-travel-care". In addition, Xikang Wellness & Resorts also serves as a joint practice base for the Group's three universities, effectively establishing an industry-academia-research collaborative innovation platform, further promoting the deep integration of educational chains, talent chains, and industrial chains.

Looking ahead, Neutech Group Limited will advance the implementation of integrated strategy of "education-healthcare-wellness and mind tour". With education serving as the core, foundation, and nexus, the Group will not only enhance the high-quality development of education technology business but also further refine healthcare and wellness service system, creating a virtuous cycle where education enables empowerment, healthcare provides support, wellness services improve quality, and residential tourism adds value. Pioneering a new paradigm of integrated development of "education-healthcare-wellness and mind tour", the Group empowers the education-healthcare-wellness ecosystem through technological innovation, and innovates digital and intelligent lifestyles through education, aiming to become the pioneer in building an ecosystem of education, healthcare, wellness and mind tour.

About Neutech Group Limited

Neutech Group Limited (referred to as "Neutech Group" or "the Group"), since its establishment in 2000, has developed over twenty-five years to become a leading provider of digital talent education services and a pioneer of teaching, medical, health care and tourism ecology. In response to China's accelerating aging population, the Group strategically expanded into elderly education and healthcare services starting in 2024. Relying on the innovative research and development capability of "education + technology + medical care" the Group is creating a new integrated model of "teaching, medical care, health and tourism." Currently, the Group operates two main business sectors: (i) Education Services; and (ii) Medical and Healthcare Service. The education service encompasses three key categories:(i) Full-time higher education services; (ii) Educational resource empowerment; and (iii) Lifelong education services. The medical and healthcare service comprises two principal domains:(i) Medical services; and (ii) healthcare services.

CONTACT: Lin Wei, weilin@neuedu.com

Accelerating growth and scale in the Australia Region as a leader in Salesforce

SOUTHBOROUGH, Mass., May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- VirtusaCorporation, a global leader in digital business strategy, product, and platform engineering, today announced the acquisition of Mav3rik, an Australian-owned and operated strategic Salesforce and MuleSoft advisory and implementation partner. Mav3rik is a trusted advisor to numerous Public Sector, healthcare, and enterprises in other verticals throughout the region.  

"Our investment in Mav3rik is one step in growing our investments and footprint in the strategic ANZ and greater APAC regions.  We see these regions as technology powerhouses that will serve as engines of innovation and growth both for Virtusa and the digital economy in the years to come. Bringing Virtusa and Mav3rik capabilities together demonstrates our strong commitment to deliver purposefully on our regional clients' strategic imperatives," said Nitesh Banga, President and Chief Executive Officer of Virtusa.

Virtusa's investment will support Mav3rik's continued expansion while strengthening Virtusa's Salesforce capabilities. Mav3rik's architecture-led approach and technology expertise align closely with Virtusa's "Engineering First" culture — a shared foundation that will help deliver greater value to clients across industries.

"We are excited to partner with the management team at Mav3rik to build and scale the business to become a leader in Salesforce services across Australia." said Naresha Supramaniam, Market Head ANZ, at Virtusa "Our combined focus on industry solutions enables us to harness the best of agentforce to automate solutions at speed and scale"

Mav3rik brings deep domain expertise, a team of Certified Technical Architects (CTAs), industry consultants, and delivery specialists across Salesforce and MuleSoft. Its capabilities also include custom web and mobile development and Artificial Intelligence, alongside advisory and managed services. This strengthens Virtusa's ability to deliver complex, high-impact digital solutions to its clients across various industry domains.

"We're proud to join forces with Virtusa," said Sean Finucane, Director and Co-Founder at Mav3rik. "This will enable us to move faster, go further, and deliver even more value to our clients in Australia, New Zealand, and beyond."

Virtusa and Mav3rik are now united to build something greater together — a stronger, regionally focused Salesforce practice built on shared values, deep expertise, and a commitment to helping clients thrive in a rapidly changing world.

About Mav3rik

Mav3rik is an Australian-owned and operated strategic Salesforce and MuleSoft implementation partner and trusted advisor headquartered in Australia. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Mav3rik offers a comprehensive suite of services ranging from advisory and architecture to design and delivery to training and managed service/support designed to empower businesses and drive digital transformation. We work collaboratively with clients to understand their business challenges and objectives and to deliver high-quality solutions that drive successful outcomes. We are highly experienced in multiple industries with a strong focus on driving innovation and transformation in public sector/government, healthcare and commercial enterprise.

About Virtusa

Virtusa Corporation is a global provider of digital engineering and technology services and solutions for Forbes Global 2000 companies in the financial services, healthcare, communications, media, entertainment, travel, manufacturing, and technology industries worldwide. At Virtusa, digital engineering is at the heart of everything we do. We are 27,000 builders, makers, and doers who partner with customers to reimagine enterprises and creatively build solutions to the most pressing business challenges that move them to the forefront of their industries.

Virtusa's unique Engineering First approach means never presenting an idea we can't execute. With deep industry expertise and empowered agile teams made up of world-class talent, we think about execution early in the process, because the earlier you think about execution the earlier an idea can have an impact. Solving from the inside out enables businesses to respond swiftly to changing needs with improved quality, lower costs, and lasting results.

Virtusa is a registered trademark of Virtusa Corporation. All other company and brand names may be trademarks or service marks of their respective holders.

Media Contact:
Paul Lesinski
Edelman
(971) 226-5299
paul.lesinski@edelman.com

Logo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/1956449/virtusa_logo_Logo.jpg?p=medium600 

TOKYO, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AUCNET INC. (hereinafter: AUCNET), a circular market design company headquartered in Minato City, Tokyo, is pleased to announce the full acquisition of its joint venture, SG e-Auction Pte. Ltd. (hereinafter: SG e-Auction) of Singapore, which operates the second-hand luxury goods distribution business in Singapore and the rest of ASEAN, with the aim of expanding its global client network and local distribution in the ASEAN and Oceania regions.

AUCNET launched the world's first real-time used car auction in 1985 and has expanded to cover a wide range of areas, including used digital products, used motorcycles, and used luxury goods. Over the years, it has developed expertise and a strong distribution network in the secondary market.

In 2015, AUCNET established a subsidiary, AUCNET CONSUMER PRODUCTS INC. (HQ: Minato City, Tokyo, CEO: Yasuto Saito, hereinafter: ACP), to engage in the fashion resale business. Today, ACP supports operating one of Japan's largest online luxury brand auctions, collaborating with over 5,500 companies across the globe, and achieving an annual transaction volume of more than 52 billion yen.

ACP has expanded its business into the B2C sector by acquiring GALLERY RARE Ltd. (HQ: Osaka City, Osaka, CEO: Fumitoshi Teraoka, hereinafter: GALLERY RARE) in 2020, and Defactostandard, Ltd. (HQ: Ota City, Tokyo, CEO: Yuki Noritake, hereinafter: Defactostandard), which operates "Brandear," in 2024.

As part of its international expansion, ACP formed a joint venture with a leading pawnshop in Singapore in 2017. The company continued its growth by opening offices in North America (Los Angeles, California) and Europe (Copenhagen, Denmark) in 2022, actively expanding its business.

In line with its global strategy for the fashion resale business, AUCNET is making the company a wholly owned subsidiary. This acquisition further strengthens AUCNET's global business in the rapidly growing resale market, including luxury goods, within the ASEAN and Oceania regions.

Purpose of SG e-Auction Acquisition

(1) Accelerating the expansion of the network built by SG e-Auction in the ASEAN region, while enhancing customer service for the existing 400 members.

(2) Expanding distribution in the ASEAN and Oceania regions, centered around Singapore.

(3) Developing AUCNET's fashion resale business, which includes ACP, GALLERY RARE, and Defactostandard.

To strengthen AUCNET's brand presence in the ASEAN and Oceania regions and accelerate its international expansion, the company plans to change its name to AUCNET ASIA Pacific (tentative) after the acquisition.

AUCNET ASIA Pacific (tentative) will aim to further increase its international clients, and to contribute to achieving global distribution.

Image of Miya Komatsuzaki (COO of SG e-Auction): https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M105709/202504308146/_prw_PI1fl_5DqKsMRo.jpeg 

-Overview of AUCNET ASIA Pacific (tentative)

Company name: AUCNET ASIA Pacific

HQ: 7 CHANGI BUSINESS PARK VISTA, #01-01, SOOKEE HQ, SINGAPORE 486042

Representative: Director, Yasuto Saito

About AUCNET INC.: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202504308146-O1-UYBbFbmA.pdf 

Source: AUCNET INC.

For over 40 years, XYPRO has been a trusted name in protecting high value, high-risk systems. XYPRO's solutions include threat detection, identity and access management, compliance, and analytics - empowering global organizations to maintain the highest levels of system integrity, security and operational continuity.

"PartnerOne brings the scale, resources, and complementary cybersecurity expertise to propel XYPRO into its next chapter of innovation and growth. This is more than an acquisition – it's a long-term alignment of vision and values. With PartnerOne, we've found our forever home, and that's great news for our customers and our partners," said Steve Tcherchian, CEO of XYPRO.

The acquisition of XYPRO further strengthens PartnerOne's position in the cybersecurity market, particularly within mission critical environments where reliability and security are paramount. With PartnerOne's global scale and resources, XYPRO is positioned to expand its reach and accelerate innovation while continuing to deliver exceptional value to its loyal worldwide customer base.

About PartnerOne :

PartnerOne is one of the fastest growing enterprise software groups in the world, with a proven track record of acquiring and growing enterprise software companies. Over 1,500 enterprise and government organizations rely on PartnerOne software, including 80% of the largest companies in the world.

About XYPRO :

Founded in 1983, XYPRO is a recognized leader in cybersecurity, protecting the world's most critical data. Trusted by global enterprises, XYPRO delivers industry-leading risk management and compliance solutions for mission critical workloads—helping organizations prevent data breaches, reduce risk exposure, and ensure operational resilience. From regulatory compliance to ransomware protection, we partner with customers to secure what matters most - their data.

AKH Holding encompasses all business activities of the Aker Horizons group, including its shareholding in Aker Carbon Capture ASA (ACC), investment in Mainstream Renewable Power, and the Narvik properties. As described in a stock exchange notice from ACC today, ACC has entered into an agreement to sell its ownership interest in SLB Capturi AS to Aker, followed by a proposed dividend payment to ACC shareholders and liquidation of ACC.

To enable shareholders in AKH to benefit directly from the merger consideration, the shares in AKH Holding will be distributed as a dividend in kind to AKH shareholders immediately prior to completion of the Merger. Upon completion of the Merger, AKH shareholders who received AKH Holding shares as dividend in kind will receive the merger consideration in exchange for their shareholding in AKH Holding. The distribution of dividend in kind in the form of shares in AKH Holding is subject to approval by the shareholders of AKH. An extraordinary general meeting to consider this is expected to be called for the first part of June 2025.

AKH has also resolved to redeem 100% of the Aker Horizons AS FRN Senior Unsecured NOK 2,500,000,000 Green Bond 2021/2025 (ISIN NO0010923220) (the Green Bond) at a call price of 100.37 percent of par, plus accrued unpaid interest. AKH will utilize existing cash reserves for the redemption, which is expected to be completed by the end of May 2025. The early redemption will reduce cash interest costs for AKH that would otherwise accrue until the maturity of the Green Bond on August 15, 2025. The redemption is not conditional upon completion of the Merger.

As part of the overall transaction relating to the Merger:

• AKH will offer to repurchase the outstanding bonds under AKH's NOK 1.6 billion Convertible Bond due 2026 (the Convertible Bond) at a cash price of 93% of par. Repurchased bonds will subsequently be cancelled. AKH will fund such redemption by drawing on a receivable against AKH Holding that will be established as part of the Merger, whereby the economic liability to repay the Convertible Bond is assumed by AKH Holding. Aker Capital, which holds Convertible Bonds equalling NOK 1.3 billion par value, has undertaken not to accept the redemption offer.
• AKH Holding will upon completion of the Merger assume the debtor position under AKH's NOK 2.6 bn (including accrued interest) shareholder loan from Aker Capital.
• AKH will propose to DNB Bank ASA that the guarantee provided by AKH in relation to the Mainstream Renewable Power DNB facility shall be transferred to AKH MergerCo. Such transfers will be conditional upon completion of the Merger. The new shareholder loan from AKH to Mainstream Renewable Power issued in April 2025 and the new shareholder loan commitment will also be transferred to AKH MergerCo.

The transaction is the result of a strategic review process by the Board of Directors of Aker Horizons (the Board), who has concluded that it represents the most attractive alternative for Aker Horizons and its shareholders. There is significant market uncertainty and substantial funding requirements needed to realize the value creation potential in Aker Horizons' portfolio of assets, which makes it challenging for Aker Horizons as a stand-alone listed company to raise financing without diluting existing shareholders. Additionally, Aker Horizons has significant debt that will mature during the next 12 months.

The Board believes that the Merger and other transactions described herein are in the best commercial interests of AKH, its shareholders, business partners and other stakeholders. Consequently, the Board has deemed it advisable and in the best interests of AKH and its shareholders to complete the transactions.

Following the completion of the Merger, Aker will continue to realize the value of AKH Holdings' existing investments. Mainstream's activities have been scaled down and the company is focusing on a few key areas, including South Africa and Australia. Overall, going forward the task is to manage risks and opportunities in the portfolio, including in Chile and within offshore wind. In Narvik, the emphasis will be on developing the data center business opportunity.

Øyvind Eriksen, President and CEO, Aker ASA, comments:

"This merger follows a prolonged period of financial uncertainty for Aker Horizons. Despite significant losses for Aker and fellow shareholders in Aker Horizons, our perspective remains long-term. We believe in the underlying industrial potential and are taking steps to protect and rebuild shareholder value through more focused capital deployment and a clearer strategic direction. We will continue to develop the existing assets, including core projects in Mainstream and the ownership in SLB Capturi, as well as the possible data center development in Narvik, which will require Aker's full weight of industrial expertise and financial capacity."

Lone Fønss Schrøder, Independent Director of Aker Horizons, comments:

"This transaction serves the long-term interests of all stakeholders. It reflects the need to adapt to a materially changed market environment, where the sharp downturn in green energy and industrial markets has made capital raising and large-scale execution significantly more challenging. We have already adjusted our strategy - and now also our structure."

Kristian Røkke, Chairman of Aker Horizons, comments:

"Aker Horizons was founded with a clear vision: to accelerate the transition to Net Zero by applying the Aker group's industrial, technological, and capital markets expertise to drive global decarbonization through renewable energy, carbon capture, and sustainable industry. The portfolio, built in a different market environment, retains potential with several promising initiatives.

Notably, the powered land sites in Narvik, originally part of our green industry strategy, have evolved into an AI Factory initiative. The surging demand for AI infrastructure offers significant value creation opportunities. Today's market conditions do not support large-scale green investments to the extent they once did, and realizing this potential requires capital and scale beyond Aker Horizons' standalone capacity."

The Board will work on defining AKH's future strategy and structure following completion of the Merger and will revert with an update once the Board has concluded in this respect.

Key Terms of the Merger

Aker Horizons' wholly owned subsidiary, AKH Holding, will merge with an indirect subsidiary of Aker ASA (AKH MergerCo), with AKH MergerCo as the surviving entity. Shareholders in Aker Horizons (other than Aker Capital) will upon completion of the Merger receive merger consideration in the form of NOK 0.267963 in cash and 0.001898 shares in Aker ASA for each share owned in Aker Horizons. The exchange ratio is based on the 30-day volume weighted average share price for each of Aker and AKH.

Aker ASA will settle the consideration shares in the Merger with treasury shares held and/or acquired and/or issue of new shares pursuant to authorizations granted to the board of directors of Aker ASA.

Fractions of Aker ASA consideration shares will not be allotted in the Merger. For each shareholder the number of Aker ASA shares will be rounded down to each whole number, or to zero shares. Excess shares, which because of this round down will not be allotted to eligible shareholders, will be issued to and sold by DNB Bank ASA according to instructions from Aker ASA at the expense and risk of the beneficiaries with a proportionate distribution of net sales proceeds among the shareholders who have the number of consideration shares rounded off.

Since the Merger is between AKH Holding and AKH MergerCo, shareholders in AKH will retain their shares in AKH following completion of the Merger.

Completion of the Merger is subject to (i) completion of the distribution of dividend in kind in the form of shares in AKH Holding, (ii) all third-party notifications and consents having been delivered and obtained, including consent from DNB Bank ASA in relation to transfer of the support arrangements relating to Mainstream Renewables described above, and (iii) other customary closing conditions. Subject to fulfilment of these conditions, the Merger is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2025.

Advisors

Arctic Securities AS has acted as financial adviser to Aker and DNB Markets has acted as financial adviser to Aker Horizons in connection with the Merger. Advokatfirmaet BAHR AS has acted as legal counsel to Aker and Advokatfirmaet Haavind AS has acted as legal counsel to Aker Horizons.

For further information, please contact:
Jonas Gamre, Investor Relations, tel: +47 97 11 82 92, email: jonas.gamre@akerhorizons.com
Mats Ektvedt, Media, tel: +47 41 42 33 28, email: mats.ektvedt@corporatecommunications.no 

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation article 7 and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to MAR article 17 and Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange announcement was published by Mats Ektvedt, Partner in Corporate Communications, on 9 May 2025 at 06:57 CEST.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-horizons/r/aker-horizons-announces-merger-with-aker-and-early-repayment-of-nok-2-5-billion-green-bond,c4147914

DUBLIN and STAMFORD, Conn., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix Aviation Capital ("Phoenix"), a full-service aircraft lessor, and AIP Capital, an alternative investment manager focused on opportunities in in asset-based finance today announced the acquisition of one Boeing 787-8 aircraft on long-term lease with LOT Polish Airways.

The aircraft acquired by Phoenix, bearing manufacturers serial number 35942, is a 2014 vintage Boeing 787-8 powered by Trent 1000 engines. In September 2024, Phoenix had placed four next-generation Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft on long-term lease with LOT Polish Airways.

Vinson & Elkins LLP served as transaction counsel and KPMG acted as tax advisor to AIP Capital.

About Phoenix Aviation Capital

Phoenix Aviation Capital is a full-service aircraft lessor focused on financing modern, in-demand aircraft and is dedicated to meeting the financing needs of its airline customers across the globe. Phoenix Aviation Capital is based in Dublin and is managed by AIP Capital, a global aviation asset management and investment firm.

For more information about Phoenix Aviation Capital or to speak with company executives, please contact investor.relations@phoenixaviationcap.com.

About AIP Capital

AIP Capital (AIP) is a global alternative investment manager focused on opportunities in asset-based finance including aviation and equipment finance. AIP, together with its affiliates, manages approximately $4 billion of assets on behalf of a diversified global investor base. The AIP team is comprised of more than 30 experienced professionals across AIP's offices in Stamford, New York City, Dublin, and Singapore.

For more information about AIP Capital or to speak with company executives, please contact investor.relations@aipcapital.com.

Media Contact
AIP Capital
Geoffrey Bayers
investor.relations@aipcapital.com

NEW YORK and SINGAPORE, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Revelio Labs, the market-leading workforce intelligence company, today announced the acquisition of Salary Board, a leading provider of real-time compensation data and labor market insights. This strategic acquisition expands Revelio Labs' extensive workforce datasets, improving its compensation analytics capabilities, and accelerates the company's international growth in the HR analytics market.

Revelio Labs will absorb Salary Board's rich trove of global compensation data into its universal HR database. By combining these datasets, the company will provide employers, HR professionals, and analysts with unparalleled insights into labor market trends. This move not only broadens the scope of Revelio Labs' data coverage but also enhances the precision of its analytics.

"We have respected the Salary Board team for a long time and are thrilled to join forces," said Ben Zweig, CEO of Revelio Labs. "By integrating Salary Board's team, data, and models into our own platform, we're ensuring that we can best serve clients by staying at the cutting edge of workforce intelligence."

Salary Board's leadership is equally enthusiastic about the partnership. Madu Ionascu, founder of Salary Board, said, "Joining Revelio Labs is an exciting new chapter for Salary Board. We built Salary Board to bring transparency and accuracy to compensation and labor market data. Now, as part of Revelio Labs, we can amplify that mission on a much larger scale."

Salary Board has established a strong presence in Europe and Asia with Fortune 500 talent organizations, government entities, RPO, and consulting firms, helping Revelio Labs to accelerate global expansion and serve a broader client base. The acquisition of Salary Board is effective immediately, and the two companies are already working closely on product integration and go-to-market strategies.

Looking ahead, the companies will collaborate on developing new analytics solutions that leverage the expanded dataset, including advanced tools for predictive workforce planning, job architecture, and pay equity analysis.

About Revelio Labs
Revelio Labs absorbs and standardizes hundreds of millions of publicly available employment records to create the world's first universal workforce database. Revelio Labs' platform provides an understanding of the labor market in unprecedented detail, enabling business leaders, HR professionals, and analysts to make data-driven talent decisions.

HOUSTON, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Shell Offshore Inc. and Shell Pipeline Company (SPLC), subsidiaries of Shell plc (Shell), have completed the previously announced agreement to increase their stake in the Ursa platform in the Gulf of America from 45.3884% to 61.3484%.

Ursa platform (courtesy of Shell)

This acquisition is part of Shell's strategy to invest in profitable and carbon-competitive oil and gas projects with a strong integrated value chain.

Deepening Shell's interest in existing assets also contributes to maintaining stable liquids production from its advantaged Upstream business.

Notes to editors 

• Shell is the operator of Ursa Tension-Leg Platform (TLP) and holds a 61.3484% working interest (WI) ownership in the asset with BP Exploration & Production Inc. (22.6916% WI) and ECP GOM III, LLC (15.96%).

The transaction also includes the following from ConocoPhillips:

• 11.81% membership interest in the Shell-operated Ursa Oil Pipeline Company LLC, which will be held by SPLC. The agreement has been adjusted following preferential rights election by partners, bringing Shell's working interest in the Ursa pipeline from 45.39% to 57.20%.
• 1% WI in the Europa prospect (also operated by Shell).
• 3.5% Overriding Royalty Interest (ORRI) in Ursa.
• Shell US is the leading deep-water operator and the largest producer of oil and gas in the Gulf of America, focused on opportunities close to its existing assets in the most prolific corridors.

Cautionary Note

The companies in which Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this press release "Shell", "Shell Group" and "Group" are sometimes used for convenience to reference Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" are also used to refer to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. ''Subsidiaries'', "Shell subsidiaries" and "Shell companies" as used in this press release refer to entities over which Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. The terms "joint venture", "joint operations", "joint arrangements", and "associates" may also be used to refer to a commercial arrangement in which Shell has a direct or indirect ownership interest with one or more parties. The term "Shell interest" is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest.

Forward-Looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Shell to market risks and statements expressing management's expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as "aim"; "ambition"; ''anticipate''; "aspire", "aspiration", ''believe''; "commit"; "commitment"; ''could''; "desire"; ''estimate''; ''expect''; ''goals''; ''intend''; ''may''; "milestones"; ''objectives''; ''outlook''; ''plan''; ''probably''; ''project''; ''risks''; "schedule"; ''seek''; ''should''; ''target''; "vision"; ''will''; "would" and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this press release, including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell's products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks, including climate change; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, judicial, fiscal and regulatory developments including tariffs and regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, regional conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict in the Middle East, and a significant cyber security, data privacy or IT incident; (n) the pace of the energy transition; and (o) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Shell plc's Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 (available at www.shell.com/investors/news-and-filings/sec-filings.html and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this press release and should be considered by the reader. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, May 1, 2025. Neither Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Shell's net carbon intensity

Also, in this press release we may refer to Shell's "net carbon intensity" (NCI), which includes Shell's carbon emissions from the production of our energy products, our suppliers' carbon emissions in supplying energy for that production and our customers' carbon emissions associated with their use of the energy products we sell. Shell's NCI also includes the emissions associated with the production and use of energy products produced by others which Shell purchases for resale. Shell only controls its own emissions. The use of the terms Shell's "net carbon intensity" or NCI is for convenience only and not intended to suggest these emissions are those of Shell plc or its subsidiaries.

Shell's net-zero emissions target

Shell's operating plan and outlook are forecasted for a three-year period and ten-year period, respectively, and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next three and ten years. Accordingly, the outlook reflects our Scope 1, Scope 2 and NCI targets over the next ten years. However, Shell's operating plan and outlook cannot reflect our 2050 net-zero emissions target, as this target is outside our planning period. Such future operating plans and outlooks could include changes to our portfolio, efficiency improvements and the use of carbon capture and storage and carbon credits. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell's operating plans and outlooks to reflect this movement. However, if society is not net zero in 2050, as of today, there would be significant risk that Shell may not meet this target.

Forward-Looking non-GAAP measures

This press release may contain certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures such as acquisitions. We are unable to provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside the control of Shell, such as oil and gas prices, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, estimating such GAAP measures with the required precision necessary to provide a meaningful reconciliation is extremely difficult and could not be accomplished without unreasonable effort. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future periods which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied in Shell plc's consolidated financial statements.

The contents of websites referred to in this press release do not form part of this press release.

We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this press release that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.

PARIS, April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, is proud to announce its strategic acquisition of smahrt consulting AG, a Swiss-based company specializing in HR-IT consulting, implementation and outsourcing. Especially within the SAP product portfolio.

With a presence in 28 countries and a team of over 2,500 professionals, HR Path is a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of Human Resources. Specializing in advisory, implementation, and operational services, HR Path delivers cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance efficiency and foster growth. Since its founding in 2001, the company has remained steadfast in its mission to transform HR practices globally.

Founded in 2007, smahrt has built a strong reputation for delivering high quality project with the solutions of SAP HCM, SAP SuccessFactors and suitable add-ons from third-party providers or smahrt's own development. However, not only the depth solution expertise makes smahrt outstanding, but also the excellent know-how in integrating peripheral systems. This enables the HR department to focus on its core tasks and handle administrative tasks digitally and efficiently.

This acquisition represents a significant milestone for HR Path, solidifying its position as a leader in the HR industry and expanding its presence in Switzerland. smahrt's specialized focus on HR-IT perfectly complements HR Path's vision of driving organizational growth and excellence through strategic HR solutions.

According to Ato Anderson, Partner at HR Path, this move is "not just a strategic expansion, it's a people-focused evolution." He continues, "With smahrt joining HR Path, we are establishing a new powerhouse in the Swiss HR-IT landscape, combining depth of experience with a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we are expanding our service offering while unlocking exciting new opportunities for our clients and our people. This marks the beginning of a new chapter where innovation, impact, and growth will shape the future of HR in the region."

PDF: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2673328/HR_Path_Expands.pdf  

CONTACT: Fabienne LATOUR - Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com 

HONG KONG, March 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of Italian luxury yacht maker Ferretti Group on Friday recommended that independent shareholders not to accept a voluntary partial takeover bid by Czech investment group KKCG, in a response document published on 13 March 2026.

KKCG Maritime S.A., controlled by Czech billionaire Karel Komárek, is offering €3.50 per share (approximately HK$31.71) in cash for up to 52,132,861 shares, or 15.4% of Ferretti's issued share capital. The acceptance period runs from 16 March to 13 April 2026.

Board, IBC and IFA Unanimously Recommend Rejection
The rejection followed a three-tier review process required under Hong Kong and Italian regulatory frameworks: Independent Financial Adviser (Altus Capital) concluded that the offer, including the consideration, is "not attractive" and "not fair and not reasonable" so far as independent shareholders are concerned, and recommended the IBC to advise independent shareholders not to accept the offer. Independent Board Committee (IBC) concurred with Altus and concluded that the offer is "not fair and not reasonable", recommending that independent shareholders not accept. Board of Directors agreed with and adopted the assessments of both the IBC and Altus, concluding that the offer does not adequately reflect Ferretti's value and is not in the best interest of the Company and the independent shareholders.

Valuation and Structural Concerns

Altus Capital said the offer price, while at a premium to historical averages, stands at a discount to recent market prices on both exchanges. The implied EV/EBITDA ratio of 5.3 times compares unfavourably to yacht industry peers and a broader panel of luxury brand comparables. Altus also noted the partial nature of the offer as a fundamental structural weakness, as it denies shareholders a full exit while leaving them exposed to reduced liquidity and greater price volatility.

Governance and Strategic Uncertainty

Beyond pricing, the Board warned that the offer could create a duopoly of significant shareholdings (with FIH at approximately 39.4% and KKCG at 29.9%), giving rise to significant uncertainty in relation to the Company's long-term business strategy and potentially resulting in boardroom stalemates.

Altus further noted that KKCG has not been involved in the group's operations, has made no demonstrated contribution to its development, and has not presented a clear industry-specific strategy for the luxury yacht business.

Offer Background and Company Trajectory

KKCG announced the voluntary partial offer earlier this year as part of an effort to build a strategic stake in the Italian yacht maker, and seek to have its proposed nominees to be elected to the board. KKCG has a track record of controversial conduct toward minority shareholders at other listed companies. At Greek gaming company OPAP S.A., KKCG launched a 2019 tender offer at the statutory minimum price below market value, which the majority of shareholders rejected, and subsequently used a five-year scrip dividend programme to cross the 50% control threshold without paying any premium. In the ongoing Allwyn-OPAP merger, KKCG initially sought 85% voting control on only 78.5% economic interest through preference shares; according to Athens Times (19 December 2025), Citi called this "one of the main concerns for investors" and Eurobank Equities described it as creating "asymmetries in economic rights and control", ultimately forcing KKCG to withdraw the scheme after investor backlash.

Ferretti, meanwhile, has undergone significant development over the past decade. Weichai Group became Ferretti's controlling shareholder in 2012 as a long-term strategic investor, and over the following years the company returned to profitability, expanded its global market presence and completed listings in Hong Kong in 2022 and Milan in 2023.

For the year ended 31 December 2025, Ferretti reported net revenue of approximately €1,231.7 million, up 5.0% year-on-year, with net profit of approximately €90.1 million and an order backlog of approximately €1,715.7 million.

Board Voting and Abstentions

The response document was approved at a board meeting on 12 March 2026. Mr. Piero Ferrari, non-executive director, who indirectly and directly holds approximately 4.63% of the Company's shares, abstained as required under Italian law. Mr. Ferrari has indicated that he intends to reject the Offer in respect of all the shares held by him.

Mr. Alberto Galassi, chief executive officer and executive director, also abstained, noting that accepting shareholders would only sell part of their holdings while remaining exposed to the company, echoing concerns raised by the IFA, and said he considered it more appropriate to remain neutral. Independent non-executive director Stefano Domenicali was absent from the meeting due to other commitments.

The Summit, positioned as the flagship APAC biomanufacturing forum, convened regional executives, investors, regulatory experts, and scientists under the theme "Shaping the Region's Bioproduction Landscape – From Scale-Up Innovation to Quality Compliance." Discussions centered on strengthening regional manufacturing capabilities, accelerating innovation, and ensuring alignment with global quality and regulatory standards.

Over its decades-long history, Charles River's global services have supported the research or development efforts behind a significant number of FDA-approved therapeutics in recent years, underscoring its central role in advancing biomedical innovation worldwide.

The MoU establishes a framework for the Parties to explore potential collaboration in CMC support, analytical testing, technical development, and related services for advanced therapy developers in Taiwan and across the Asia-Pacific region.

As a CDMO dedicated specifically to cell and gene therapy manufacturing, Locus Cell is building a digital-native smart cell factory in Taiwan to support the rapidly growing CGT sector in Asia. By combining Locus Cell's advanced therapy manufacturing capabilities— including CAR-T, iPSC, and immune cell platforms — with Charles River's global expertise in biologics testing and analytical development, the Parties intend to evaluate opportunities for technical alignment, service integration, and mutual customer referral mechanisms, subject to further discussion and definitive agreements.

"This MoU reflects our shared commitment to strengthening collaboration in advanced therapies," said Sean Chang, CEO of Locus Cell. "Locus Cell is a CDMO dedicated specifically to cell and gene therapy. We are building a digital-native smart cell factory from the ground up in Zhubei, Taiwan, designed to integrate AIoT systems, digital manufacturing, and future automation under PIC/S GMP standards. By combining Charles River's global expertise in testing and analytical development with Locus Cell's dedicated CGT manufacturing platform in Asia, we see a strong strategic fit to support advanced therapy developers across the region. Taiwan is also establishing a supportive regulatory framework for regenerative medicine, and we welcome international partners to collaborate with us.

Global Leader in Safety-Critical Ground Support Products

NEW YORK, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- KPS Capital Partners, LP ("KPS") announced today that, through a newly formed affiliate, it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling interest in Jennmar and its affiliates ("Jennmar" or the "Company").  Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  Completion of the transaction is expected in the second quarter of 2026 and is subject to customary closing conditions and approvals.

Founded in 1922, Jennmar is a leading global provider of safety-critical products and essential services to the mining, civil infrastructure, solar and construction industries. Jennmar serves as an integral and trusted partner to its customers around the world and enables them to run their operations safely and efficiently.  The Company is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has approximately 4,000 employees and operates 59 manufacturing facilities across the globe.

Kyle Mumford, Partner of KPS, said, "Jennmar is a global market leader in ground support products with a proven track record of delivering best-in-class customer service and product quality.  We look forward to supporting the Jennmar leadership team with KPS' decades of global manufacturing experience as well as our strategic support and capital to continue Jennmar's tremendous growth both organically and through acquisition.  We are also pleased that existing owners, Tony Calandra and FalconPoint Partners, will continue as meaningful minority shareholders, affirming our shared view of the future growth and value creation potential of Jennmar."

Tony Calandra, Chief Executive Officer of Jennmar, said, "I am exceptionally proud of the accomplishments of the Jennmar team – each year we consistently broaden our product offering, increase our service capabilities, and expand the geographies in which we can fully support our customers – all while continuing our best-in-class quality and delivery.  Jennmar is committed to continuing this trajectory and we identified KPS as the right partner to support and accelerate our growth.  Jennmar will benefit considerably from KPS' manufacturing expertise and capital resources as we continue to invest heavily in innovating to meet our customers' needs and expanding our addressable markets."

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton and Garrison LLP served as legal counsel and Jefferies served as financial advisor to KPS and its affiliates. Lowenstein Sandler LLP served as legal counsel and Evercore and Rothschild & Co. served as financial advisors to Jennmar and FalconPoint.

About Jennmar

Jennmar is a leading global provider of infrastructure products and specialized services to the civil infrastructure, solar, mining, and construction industries.  For over 100 years, Jennmar's focus has been on manufacturing products and providing solutions that help keep workers safe and productive.  For more information, please visit www.jennmar.com.

About FalconPoint Partners

FalconPoint is a private equity firm that invests in North American mid-market companies in the business services and industrial sectors. The firm leverages a network of relationships and a partnership-oriented approach to identify and execute on transformative growth opportunities at companies that provide mission-critical products and services. For more information, please visit www.falconpointpartners.com.

About KPS Capital Partners, LP

KPS, through its affiliated management entities, is the manager of the KPS Special Situations Funds, a family of investment funds with approximately $19.5 billion of assets under management (as of September 30, 2025).  For over three decades, the Partners of KPS have worked exclusively to realize significant capital appreciation by making controlling equity investments in manufacturing and industrial companies across a diverse array of industries, including basic materials, branded consumer, healthcare and luxury products, automotive parts, capital equipment and general manufacturing.  KPS creates value for its investors by working constructively with talented management teams to make businesses better, and generates investment returns by structurally improving the strategic position, competitiveness and profitability of its portfolio companies, rather than primarily relying on financial leverage.  The KPS Funds' portfolio companies currently generate aggregate annual revenues of approximately $21.2 billion, operate 202 manufacturing facilities in 21 countries, and have approximately 55,000 employees, directly and through joint ventures worldwide (as of September 30, 2025).  The KPS investment strategy and portfolio companies are described in detail at www.kpsfund.com.

NEW YORK, March 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ridgewood Infrastructure ("Ridgewood"), an investor focused on essential infrastructure in the United States lower middle market, today announced the successful sale of APP Jet Center ("APP"), a fixed-base operator ("FBO") platform providing critical aviation infrastructure services, to Bain Capital.

APP operates high-quality aviation facilities across major U.S. metropolitan markets, serving a diversified base of corporate, government, and private aviation customers. Ridgewood acquired a controlling interest in APP through a bilateral transaction and partnered with management to drive organic growth initiatives, expand hangar capacity, and complete a material add-on acquisition that increased the company's presence in Florida — one of the most active private aviation markets in the United States.

"We are proud of the work accomplished alongside APP's management team," said Ryan Stewart, Partner at Ridgewood Infrastructure. "Our focus was on delivering consistent, high-quality service for APP's customers while thoughtfully expanding the business. By strengthening leadership, enhancing operational discipline, and investing in additional capacity, we positioned APP as a scaled and strategic general aviation infrastructure platform."

Ross Posner, Managing Partner at Ridgewood Infrastructure, added, "APP exemplifies our strategy in action. We identified a high-quality lower middle-market infrastructure business, partnered with management to scale and professionalize the platform, and ultimately positioned it for exit to an owner seeking a durable infrastructure business with continued growth potential. This transaction reflects the repeatability of our approach."

Bain Capital intends to build upon APP's established footprint and continue expanding in attractive aviation markets across the United States.

The transaction closed in March 2026. Financial terms were not disclosed.

King & Spalding served as legal advisor and Harris Williams served as financial advisor to Ridgewood Infrastructure.

About Ridgewood Infrastructure

Ridgewood Infrastructure invests in essential infrastructure businesses with areas of focus including transportation, water, utilities, and energy. The firm focuses on lower middle-market companies providing critical services with inelastic demand profiles and clear opportunities for operational enhancement and strategic growth.

Contact Information:
Ridgewood Infrastructure
527 Madison Avenue, 18th Floor
New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 867-0050
Email: Inquiries@RidgewoodInfrastructure.com

Logo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/1163658/Ridgewood_Logo.jpg?p=medium600 

The aggregate consideration for the Transactions is approximately US$87.7 million (subject to certain net asset value adjustments), including (i) approximately US$24.0 million for the Office Transaction; (ii) approximately US$30.3 million for the hotel component of the Horney Transactions; and (iii) approximately US$32.8 million for the town hall component of the Horney Transactions. The Loan has a term of five years and carries an interest of 5% per annum; interests accrue and are payable on the Loan every 6 months. AMTD IDEA Group agrees to charge, among other things, the Office, the townhall property, the hotel property and all the issued shares of the operating companies of the townhall and the hotel, to the Lender as securities for the repayment of the Loan. The Transactions are expected to be completed simultaneously and in March 2026, subject to the execution of definite agreements and closing conditions set forth therein.

The acquisition underscores the deepening strategic partnership between AMTD and FEC, building on a strong track record of collaboration across landmark hospitality projects such as Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore and The Ritz–Carlton Perth in Australia.

The Transactions also highlight AMTD's diversified, multi–dimensional business strategy and extensive regional footprint. Through the planned acquisition a premium hotel, historic townhall, and an office tower in prime London locations, AMTD is expected to further strengthen its strategic foothold in the European region and complements its broader global portfolio of hospitality and commercial real estate assets.

Dr. Feridun Hamdullahpur, the independent chairman of AMTD IDEA Group commented, "Acquiring these key London assets marks an important milestone in AMTD's expansion strategy across major international gateways. This transaction deepens our long–term strategic partnership with FEC and underscores AMTD IDEA Group's ambition to build a leading global portfolio of high–quality hospitality and commercial real estate assets."

Dr. Timothy Tong, the independent chairman of AMTD Digital commented, "The acquisition of Hornsey Hotel signifies another major milestone in AMTD Digital's development in the hospitality industry.   AMTD Digital will be well positioned to serve an important metropolitan area that is steeped in history and culture."

Raymond Yung, the independent director of TGE commented, "TGE is well positioned to capture the continuing growth in the tourism industry around the world. These acquisitions are solid proof of TGE's financial and operational strength in this strategic segment of our business."

About AMTD Group

AMTD Group is a conglomerate with a core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality sectors.

 About AMTD IDEA Group

AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) represents a diversified institution and digital solutions group connecting companies and investors with global markets. Its comprehensive one-stop business services plus digital solutions platform addresses different clients' diverse and inter-connected business needs and digital requirements across all phases of their life cycles. AMTD IDEA Group is uniquely positioned as an active super connector between clients, business partners, investee companies, and investors, connecting the East and the West. For more information, please visit www.amtdinc.com or follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") at @AMTDGroup.

About AMTD Digital Inc.

AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) is a comprehensive digital solutions platform headquartered in France. Its one-stop digital solutions platform operates key business lines including digital media, content and marketing services, investments as well as hospitality and VIP services. For AMTD Digital's announcements, please visit https://ir.amtdigital.net/investor-news.

About The Generation Essentials Group

The Generation Essentials Group (NYSE: TGE; LSE: TGE), jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) and AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD), is headquartered in France and focuses on global strategies and developments in multi-media, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide as well as hospitality and VIP services. TGE comprises L'Officiel, The Art Newspaper, movie and entertainment projects. Collectively, TGE is a diversified portfolio of media and entertainment businesses, and a global portfolio of premium properties. Also, TGE is a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) sponsor manager, with its first SPAC successfully raised and priced on December 18, 2025.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the beliefs, plans, and expectations of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and/or The Generation Essentials Group, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the filings of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and The Generation Essentials Group with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and none of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and The Generation Essentials Group undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

For AMTD IDEA Group:
IR Office
AMTD IDEA Group
EMAIL: ir@amtdinc.com 

For AMTD Digital Inc.:
IR Office
AMTD Digital Inc.
EMAIL: ir@amtdigital.net 

For The Generation Essentials Group:
IR Office
The Generation Essentials Group
EMAIL: ir@tge.media 

PARIS, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, is proud to announce the strategic acquisition of Inspire Human Resources (Inspire HR), a U.S.-based HR advisory firm recognized for its deep expertise in addressing complex HR challenges and critical talent needs.

With a presence in 28 countries and a team of over 2,500 professionals, HR Path is a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of Human Resources. Specializing in advisory, implementation, and operational services, HR Path delivers cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance efficiency and foster growth. Since its founding in 2001, the company has remained steadfast in its mission to transform HR practices globally.

Founded in 2007 by Jaime Klein, Inspire HR trailblazed the fractional HR model, building a strong reputation for delivering flexible, senior-level expertise that empowers organizations—from Fortune 500 companies to startups and nonprofits—to bridge talent gaps and accelerate strategic growth. With a team of seasoned experts spanning every major HR discipline, Inspire HR combines hands-on operational support with high-level advisory services. By offering interim, project-based, and advisory solutions, the firm enables businesses to achieve their goals without the overhead of full-time HR staff.

This acquisition marks an important milestone in HR Path's growth in North America and significantly strengthens the Advisory pillar of its service offering. Inspire HR's people–centric expertise complements HR Path's strategic vision to guide organizations not only through HR technology decisions but also through broader people, culture, and organizational transformations.

"The acquisition of Inspire HR marks an important milestone in strengthening our Advisory capabilities in North America, a region that is central to our global growth strategy," said François Boulet, CEO and Co-Founder at HR Path. "Inspire HR's exceptional team brings deep expertise across all HR functions, enabling us to better support organizations as they evolve their culture, talent strategies, and people experience. This partnership significantly enhances our presence in the U.S. and reinforces our ambition to be the global reference in HR transformation."

"In an era of rapid change, organizations need flexible HR talent more than ever," said Jaime Klein, Founder and CEO of Inspire HR. "We're excited to join HR Path to serve more organizations as their trusted advisor and go-to fractional HR partner." 

PDF - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2927281/HR_Path_Inspire_HR.pdf 

CONTACT: Fabienne LATOUR - Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com 

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Uzum (the "Company"), Uzbekistan's leading digital ecosystem, is pleased to announce the closing of a strategic investment exceeding $130 million, anchored by the sovereign entities of the Sultanate of Oman (the "Investor").

Uzum

The transaction combines primary equity and structured capital and establishes a $2.3 billion pre-money valuation reference point, with conversion terms linked to the Company's next qualified financing round. The investment marks a significant step-up from Uzum's previous funding rounds and materially strengthens the Company's positioning ahead of its Series B.

The transaction also includes participation from existing international shareholders VR Capital, Tencent, and FinSight Ventures, underscoring strong international confidence in Uzum's long-term growth and Uzbekistan's rapidly expanding digital economy.

The capital will be used to accelerate Uzum's next phase of growth across its core verticals — e-commerce, digital banking, payments, and consumer lending — with a focus on expanding product depth, strengthening infrastructure, and increasing access to digital services nationwide. Uzum has built a fully integrated ecosystem combining commerce and fintech at a national scale. Its platforms — including Uzum Market, Uzum Tezkor, Uzum Bank, and Uzum Nasiya — are used by over 20 million people, representing more than half of Uzbekistan's population.

Global conviction in Uzbekistan's growth story

The Investor brings long-term regional expertise and a strong focus on high-growth consumer and technology markets. The partnership reflects growing international interest in Uzbekistan as one of the most attractive emerging digital economies globally.

"This investment is a strong endorsement of both Uzum's strategy and Uzbekistan's digital potential," commented Djasur Djumaev, Founder and CEO of Uzum.

"We are focused on building an infrastructure of national scale — technology-driven, inclusive, and designed for everyday use by millions of people and businesses. The support from the Investor, alongside our existing global shareholders, gives us strong momentum as we prepare for Series B and continue scaling our ecosystem."

Uzum was advised on this transaction by DLA Piper. The Investor was advised by Greenberg Traurig.

SYDNEY, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ansarada, a global leader in virtual data room (VDR) technology and procurement solutions, has launched its latest M&A Outlook Report, the 2026 Global Women in Dealmaking M&A Outlook Report, showcasing expert views from 20 leading women in dealmaking from around the globe.

Justin Smith, Managing Director at Ansarada, said, "The global M&A dealmaking market is once again enjoying sustained momentum, with a new generation of women owning their seats at the dealmaking table."

Insights from the report reveal a global M&A landscape that is increasingly accepting of ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty as a reality of the operating environment itself, rather than a temporary condition.

"With US deal volumes reaching record levels in the latter half of 2025, these influential female leaders expect that momentum to flow through to Australia and other markets in 2026, as volatility becomes a constant that no longer hampers decision-making," Smith said.

The featured dealmakers shared notably optimistic views on AI's role in dealmaking. Rather than viewing AI as a disruptor, many described it as a liberator, freeing up time for areas where their skills provide the most value: strategic thinking, negotiation and sound judgement.

Key takeaways from the report include:

• Market sentiment shifts from 'wait and see' to adaptation
  • Despite ongoing geopolitical and macroeconomic challenges, there is cautious optimism in the market, with a sharpened focus on high-quality, resilient assets. Investors are adopting an increasingly pragmatic approach, accepting that ongoing uncertainty is simply the new normal.
• AI is elevating the premium on human judgment
  • Dealmakers increasingly view AI not as a threat but as a levelling force that automates grunt work, liberating professionals rather than replacing them. This shift is freeing up time to redirect towards high-value activities that require deeper expertise.
• Engines of growth: energy, digital, demographics and healthcare
  • Deal flow is coalescing around four primary megatrends: energy transition, digital infrastructure, changing demographics, and healthcare. Regional opportunities are emerging across these themes, including renewable energy and data centres in the ANZ region, and healthcare expansion in Africa via new hospital programs.
• New capital pools and investment models are emerging
  • Niche investment trends are burgeoning across the market, such as search funds in the ANZ mid-market that are providing succession solutions. At the same time, corporate carve-outs are creating new opportunities as businesses look to streamline operations by divesting non-core divisions.
• Gender diversity as a strategic performance driver
  • The diversity narrative has evolved meaningfully, shifting from a compliance-based moral imperative to a commercial strategy with a clear focus on performance outcomes. Gender balanced teams are increasingly recognised as better equipped to navigate grey areas and the emotional nuances inherent in high-stakes negotiations.

For the full 2026 Women in Dealmaking M&A Outlook Report is available here.

About Ansarada

Ansarada is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that delivers secure, purpose-built software solutions for managing critical strategic projects such as M&A, capital raising, restructures, and infrastructure procurement. Our platform goes beyond a typical virtual data room (VDR), offering advanced security, seamless collaboration, and intuitive workflows for teams both within and across organisations. Trusted by advisors and corporates worldwide, Ansarada supports the entire deal and procurement lifecycle-streamlining processes, all while ensuring compliance with global regulations. Ansarada empowers businesses to achieve their critical outcomes with confidence.

TAIPEI, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Cardumen Capital, a leading European DeepTech venture capital firm, today marks a pivotal milestone in its international momentum following the acquisition of its portfolio company, Illumex, by NVIDIA—a transaction reported by international media to be valued at $75 million. This landmark exit further solidifies the firm's strategic presence in the Asia-Pacific region and cements its 2019 vintage fund's position as a leading performer within its vintage cohort.

A Seed-to-Exit Success Story 

Cardumen Capital was Illumex's first investor and led its 2021 seed round, supporting the company from inception through to exit. General Partners Gonzalo Martínez de Azagra and Igor de la Sota identified the startup's potential at the seed stage, guiding it toward this landmark milestone.

"This acquisition validates our DeepTech thesis," said Gonzalo Martínez de Azagra. "By backing visionary founders early, we demonstrate our ability to identify the core building blocks of the AI era."

Igor de la Sota added: "The success of the Illumex exit underscores the global demand for robust data infrastructure in the age of Generative AI. We are proud to have supported the team from day one in building a platform that now sits at the heart of the world's AI computing network."

Strengthening the Bridge to Asia-Pacific 

Illumex joining NVIDIA serves as a powerful catalyst for Cardumen Capital's mission in Asia. Led by Taipei-based APAC Venture Partner Stan Yu, a serial entrepreneur turned venture capitalist, the firm is intensifying its efforts to bridge Asian strategic capital with world-class innovation hubs in Europe, Israel, and global DeepTech ecosystems.

"Building on this milestone exit to NVIDIA, we are seeing unprecedented momentum for our strategy in the APAC region," said Stan Yu. "The journey of Illumex proves the caliber of opportunities we bring to our partners. From our base in Asia, we are uniquely positioned to facilitate these high-stakes connections, ensuring that Asian institutional capital has exclusive access to the next wave of transformative DeepTech and frontier innovations."

As a pioneering venture capital firm with a dedicated partner presence in Taiwan bridging the EMEA tech ecosystem, Cardumen Capital is uniquely positioned to drive cross-border synergies and deliver the performance expected by the institutional investment landscape in Asia.

About Cardumen Capital

Cardumen Capital, a leading global venture capital firm supervised by the CNMV (Spanish Securities Market Commission), was founded in 2018 by Gonzalo Martínez de Azagra and Igor de la Sota. With over 15 years of investment experience and a presence across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the firm specializes in investing in private market companies and funds, supporting innovation, disruptive technologies, and long-term value creation.

Backed by leading institutional investors, corporations, and family offices, Cardumen Capital focuses on generating sustainable long-term returns through its specialized DeepTech investment strategies and a demonstrated track record of connecting strategic capital with the global innovation frontier.

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