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SHL Medical opens new US$220 million manufacturing facility in the US to serve growing autoinjector market

ZUG, Switzerland, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SHL Medical, a global leader in the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced self-injection solutions, has officially inaugurated its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in North Charleston, South Carolina. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in the Swiss-based company’s global growth, reinforcing its commitment to meeting the increasing worldwide demand for autoinjectors, most notably used in the cardiometabolic sector.

The new site in North Charleston, SC, is a key milestone in SHL Medical's global expansion strategy, creating hundreds of local jobs.
The new site in North Charleston, SC, is a key milestone in SHL Medical’s global expansion strategy, creating hundreds of local jobs.

The new facility will manufacture SHL Medical’s industry-leading autoinjectors, which are used in some of the world’s best-selling medications in areas such as endocrine and metabolic disorders (including GLP-1 therapies), dermatology, musculoskeletal diseases, and other therapy areas. It ensures a reliable supply of these critical devices to millions of patients worldwide.  

Strengthening production capacity and US market presence

SHL Medical is significantly increasing its production capacity to meet growing demand in North America while strengthening supply chain resilience. “US-based production is a major step forward in our global expansion and reinforces our position as the leader in providing end-to-end drug delivery solutions,” said Ulrich Faessler, CEO & Chairman of SHL Medical. “With our established site in Taiwan and the upcoming facility in Switzerland, we will be the only autoinjector manufacturer operating across three continents, bringing us even closer to our customers.”

The fully automatized 360,000 ft²facility represents a US$220 million investment and has already created over 300 local jobs, contributing to the economic growth of the region. Equipped with cutting-edge medical device injection molding technology and fully automated assembly capabilities, the site ensures unmatched precision, efficiency, and quality in SHL Medical’s advanced drug delivery solutions.

By leveraging its existing final assembly, labeling, and packaging operations in Deerfield Beach, Florida, and integrating recent acquisitions under SHL Advantec, the North Charleston facility enhances SHL Medical’s US presence and solidifies its leadership in large-scale autoinjector production. The company is on track to deliver 1.5 billion devices to customers in 2025.

“The most trusted autoinjector brand is now made in the USA. We are proud to be contributing to the growth of the local economy and becoming a key player in the area while contributing to our sustainability goals.” adds Kimberlee Steele, Managing Director North America at SHL Medical.

The Grand Opening event, attended by approximately 180 guests, including South Carolina’s Governor Henry McMaster and Swiss Embassy Consul General Urs Broennimann, marked the official opening of SHL Medical’s innovative autoinjector production in the United States.

For more detailed information about SHL’s latest expansion strategy, please refer to the press releases below:

New manufacturing site in Zug, Switzerland

New manufacturing site in North Charleston, NC, USA

SHL Medical announces plans to establish SHL Advantec

SHL Medical acquires Swiss toolmaking company SMC Mould Innovation

SHL Medical further strengthens vertical capabilities with the acquisition of US manufacturer Superior Tooling Inc.

SHL Medical acquires 100% of the shares in Swiss company LCA Automation

About SHL Medical

SHL Medical is a pioneering leader in self-injection solutions, such as autoinjectors. Driven by our core purpose of “enabling patients’ independence”, we partner with leading pharma and biotech companies to develop self-injection systems and digital solutions enhance patients’ treatment experience and quality of life. With over 5,000 employees located across our offices in Switzerland, USA, Sweden, and Taiwan, we rely on our comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities to provide end-to-end services, from design, development, to final assembly, labeling, and packaging. For additional information, visit www.shl-medical.com

Global Media Contact

Burson Switzerland
shl-pressoffice@bcw-global.com

 

Rev Up with INSTEROID: Hyundai Motor’s Gaming-Inspired Concept Car Debuts in Seoul

  • Hyundai Motor reimagines hot-selling INSTER EV as ‘Dream Car’ concept aiming to challenge conventions and create excitement
  • INSTEROID blends gaming influences with funky and sporty aesthetics, featuring a lively character and delivering immersive experiences
  • The sporty show car aims to spark further interest in the INSTER production model already on sale in key markets
  • After its exclusive debut at the ‘Night Garage Party’ at Peaches D8NE in Seoul, INSTEROID will be showcased at the Seoul Mobility Show from April 3 to 13

SEOUL, South Korea, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Company continues to push the boundaries of automotive design with the unveiling of its visionary design concept car, INSTEROID, today in Seoul, Korea. INSTEROID embodies Hyundai Motor’s bold approach, merging gaming influences with extensive customization to captivate a new generation of drivers.

Rev Up with INSTEROID:Hyundai Motor’s Gaming-Inspired Concept Car Debuts in Seoul
Rev Up with INSTEROID:Hyundai Motor’s Gaming-Inspired Concept Car Debuts in Seoul

Link to INSTEROID unveiling video

Based on the successful Hyundai INSTER electric sub-compact urban SUV, which launched last year and quickly became a global hit, INSTEROID takes the concept of sporty design and user experience to new heights. INSTER’s acclaim, including its selection as a top three finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year award, sets a solid foundation for this radical ‘What if?’ project.

Crafted in secrecy by Hyundai Motor’s European design team, INSTEROID is a true concept car. Its name cleverly fuses the playful essence of ‘INSTER’ with the dynamic energy of ‘STEROID’, reflecting its spirited nature and muscular look.

Much like the off-road-inspired INSTER CROSS derivate shown at INSTER’s debut in 2024, INSTEROID is another step in the hot-selling production model’s journey. Its mission is clear: to challenge conventions, create emotions and redefine what a sporty EV can be.

“INSTEROID is a celebration of pure fun – a journey where we explored new ways to ignite emotion and imagination in every detail,” said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. “It’s not just about how it looks, but also how it sounds and how it makes you feel. From its bold visual language to the immersive sound experience, it’s a concept that invites everyone to dream a little louder and smile a little longer.”

More than just a car, INSTEROID represents a limitless vision of automotive innovation and imagination. It is engaging users on new levels of interaction through shape, light and sound.

“INSTEROID represents a modern take on the idea of a dream car. It is designed to inspire and create enthusiasm,” said Eduardo Ramírez, Chief Designer at Hyundai Design Europe. “This project allowed us to fully embrace unrestrained creativity, drawing inspiration from video games to create an emotional and engaging vision of Hyundai’s brand.”

Gamified design concept boasts sporty styling and eco-conscious materials

INSTEROID takes the INSTER production model to the next level with sporty, gaming-inspired features that include an extended, widened body, track-optimized wheels, and a prominent wing spoiler, diffuser and wheel arch air vents delivering advanced aerodynamics.

Inside, the cockpit offers a stripped-down layout, bucket seats, a roll cage and a specialized instrument cluster creating an immersive driving experience. Every element is fully adjustable, reflecting the user-centered spirit of a garage-built machine true to the motto: “Build it, play it, break it, repeat.” Adding to its multisensory experience, INSTEROID produces a unique sound signature, leaving an unforgettable impression.

Building upon INSTER’s charismatic design, INSTEROID aims to transform the driving experience with its Drift Mode, promising competitive thrills paired with light-hearted driving enjoyment. Playful details, such as the integrated Beat House sound system and Message Grid, enable personalized interactions, further enhancing driver engagement. Located throughout the design, the Boost icon represents multiple unique personas, reinforcing the emotional connection between car and driver.

To optimize performance and reduce overall weight, lightweight lattice structures are seamlessly integrated. The striking exterior, finished in soft white shade, is punctuated by a single bold orange highlight – an unmistakable visual statement. Completing the vision, a reflective race suit with prominent INSTEROID lettering captures the fusion of car culture and youthful expression.

INSTEROID also embodies Hyundai Motor’s commitment to sustainability by pioneering innovative approaches to eco-conscious materials. The interior showcases 3D knit fabric crafted from recycled yarns, using a single-piece, made-to-measure process.

INSTEROID generates buzz on the way to Seoul Mobility Show

Hyundai Motor unveiled INSTEROID during a launch event for media and content creators at the Peaches D8NE(Dowon) cultural and retail space in Seoul’s Seongsu neighborhood, culminating with a private ‘Night Garage Party’ on April 1. The exhibition space also featured INSTER and the rugged, outdoor-focused INSTER CROSS, allowing for discussions with product and design specialists.

A dedicated space was established at the event venue, allowing visitors to experience a variety of games featuring INSTEROID. One of these games, developed by Hyundai Motor, is a time attack-style challenge where players collect ‘steroid’ items in INSTER, enabling the car to evolve into INSTEROID. This game will be unveiled to the public in April via a URL, eliminating the need for app downloads. Additionally, Hyundai Motor revealed the INSTEROID Kart, which will be released later as a powerful tool in ‘Kartrider Rush+.’

This collaboration reflects Hyundai Motor’s growing partnerships in the gaming industry. Following successful ventures with platforms like Roblox and ZEPETO, this initiative aims to connect with younger audiences through authentic engagement.

The concept car will be showcased from April 3 to 13 at the Seoul Mobility Show, offering the public a chance to experience this concept firsthand. Serving as a halo model for the INSTER, INSTEROID is set to make a lasting impression at major auto events in key markets such as Korea and Europe, delivering a refreshed brand image while further boosting consumer interest in INSTER.

Hyundai INSTER has experienced high demand globally since its launch last year and continues to resonate with customers. Initially introduced in Korea and Europe, Hyundai Motor will further expand the rollout in 2025 to select markets across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Central and South America regions.

For more information, visit:

 

Zeekr Group Announces March 2025 Delivery Update

HANGZHOU, China, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZEEKR Intelligent Technology Holding Limited (“Zeekr Group” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ZK), the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group, today announced its delivery results for March 2025.

In March, Zeekr Group delivered a total of 40,715 vehicles from its two brands, Zeekr and Lynk & Co, thanks to the trust and support of over 1.86 million users. The Zeekr brand delivered 15,422 vehicles, representing increases of 18.5% year-over-year and 9.9% month-over-month. Meanwhile, Lynk & Co brand delivered 25,293 vehicles, recording growth of 28.6% year-over-year, with 56.3% of deliveries coming from NEV models.

On March 18, Zeekr Group unveiled its Zeekr G-Pilot intelligent driving system, powered by AI, big data, advanced SoCs, and a robust E/E architecture. The solution reinforces Zeekr Group’s industry leadership in safety and autonomous driving innovation, featuring industry-first technologies like the General Automated Evasion System (G-AES) and Full-Capacity Vehicle-to-Parking (V2P) intelligent drive.

About Zeekr Group

Zeekr Group, headquartered in Zhejiang, China, is the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group from Geely Holding Group. With two brands, Lynk & Co and Zeekr, Zeekr Group aims to create a fully integrated user ecosystem with innovation as a standard. Utilizing its state-of-the-art facilities and world-class expertise, Zeekr Group is developing its own software systems, e-powertrain, and electric vehicle supply chain. Zeekr Group’s values are equality, diversity, and sustainability. Its ambition is to become a true global new energy mobility solution provider.

For more information, please visit https://ir.zeekrgroup.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to,” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Investor Relations Contact

In China:
ZEEKR Intelligent Technology Holding Limited
Investor Relations
Email: ir@zeekrlife.com

Piacente Financial Communications
Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
Email: Zeekr@thepiacentegroup.com

In the United States:
Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
Email: Zeekr@thepiacentegroup.com

Media Contact

Email: Globalcomms@zeekrgroup.com

Capella Taipei Partners with Aiello to Revolutionize Hospitality with AI Voice Technology

Indulging in a Data-Driven Evolution of Guest Experiences

TAIPEI, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The leading AI solutions brand Aiello has partnered with Capella Taipei, under the acclaimed Capella Hotels and Resorts brand, to celebrate the grand opening of its first property in Taiwan. Each of the 86 guest rooms and suites at Capella Taipei is now equipped with the Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA), offering an unparalleled guest experience powered by cutting-edge AI technology. This collaboration not only underscores Capella Taipei’s innovative vision in smart hospitality but also reinforces Aiello’s leadership in the luxury hospitality market, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in elevating guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Aiello announces full implementation of Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA) in 86 guest rooms and suites at Capella Taipei
Aiello announces full implementation of Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA) in 86 guest rooms and suites at Capella Taipei

Capella Taipei is redefining luxury hospitality with a visionary approach to digital innovation. Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA) offers 24/7 concierge services, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a luxurious and comfortable stay. Debuting in an elegant smoked walnut finish, AVA blends naturally into the room’s refined aesthetic, while digital instruction cards replace traditional paper, reinforcing Capella Taipei’s commitment to sustainability.

Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA) enhances guest experience with intuitive voice-activated features. Guests can effortlessly adjust lighting, control the television, and access personalized recommendations to explore Taipei’s rich cultural and natural attractions. Integrated with the hotel’s Property Management System (PMS) and Task Management System (TMS), AVA optimizes hotel operations by automating guest requests, ensuring an exceptional, intelligent, and sustainable stay.

“Aiello Voice Assistant’s multilingual capabilities and round-the-clock service provide guests with an instant, personalized experience, perfectly aligning with the core value of Capella Hotels and Resorts,” said Dennis Laubenstein, General Manager of Capella Taipei. He added, “This enables our team to focus on providing unparalleled service and fostering unforgettable moments for our guests.”

As labor shortages challenge the hospitality industry, digital transformation and AI-driven solutions have become a key trend. Aiello developed AielloOne, an all-in-one SaaS management platform leveraging advanced AI and data-driven insights to optimize hotel operations and drive revenue growth. Building on the success of the Aiello Voice Assistant, Aiello recently introduced Aiello GuestWeb, a multilingual AI-powered digital concierge available as a mobile-friendly web portal. Supporting 58 languages, it allows travelers to instantly access hotel information, request services, and explore personalized recommendations. By reducing call volume by up to 60% and increasing ancillary revenue from room service orders, Aiello GuestWeb makes digital transformation more accessible than ever. Meanwhile, Aiello Voice Translator (AVT) provides real-time translation in 75 languages, enabling front desk staff to communicate effortlessly with international guests. By breaking language barriers, AVT enhances both service efficiency and the overall guest experience.

Aiello CEO and Co-founder Vic Shen remarked, “We’ve developed a tailored AI-driven data solution for hotels, empowering operational teams with precise insights into guest behavior and preferences. This enables them to refine strategies and boost revenue growth.” He emphasized that through AielloOne, hotels can seamlessly integrate key touchpoints across the entire guest journey—from pre-arrival planning to post-checkout experiences. “We are paving the way for a more efficient and competitive future in the hospitality industry,” Shen said. The collaboration with Capella Taipei further strengthens Aiello’s presence in the high-end hospitality sector. Aiello aims to expand its global footprint and lead innovations in intelligent hospitality solutions worldwide.

About Aiello

Aiello is a leading AI solutions brand renowned for its AielloOne platform—an all-in-one SaaS management solution tailored for the hospitality industry. AielloOne covers key touchpoints throughout the entire guest journey, from pre-arrival planning to post-checkout experiences, empowering hoteliers to boost operational efficiency and unlock new revenue streams. The flagship product, Aiello Voice Assistant (AVA), has received numerous accolades. Since 2019, AVA has been deployed in over 210 hotels, covering 20,000 rooms, and has handled over 14 million inquiries from 2.5 million users in Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean, and English. By leveraging AI technology, Aiello is driving digital transformation in hospitality, creating a more efficient and competitive future for hoteliers worldwide.

For more information, please visit https://aiello.ai/.

About Capella Taipei

Capella Taipei is a transcendent blend of contemporary elegance with timeless sophistication in the heart of Taiwan’s dynamic capital. Nestled in the vibrant Songshan district, Capella Taipei fuses tradition with a modern-day narrative of the city, capturing André Fu’s personal interpretation of a “modern mansion” concept. 86 exquisitely crafted rooms and suites offer sweeping views of the city skyline, highlighting the Taipei 101 landmark and surrounding mountains, while culinary excellence abounds with five dining venues and a tri-level destination bar complex. The Glasshouse. Capella Wellness offers bespoke treatments for those seeking rejuvenation, and the signature Living Room, where Capella Culturists curate personalized experiences, rounds out this urban retreat— a haven designed to indulge and inspire.

For further information, please contact:

Aiello Inc

Patty Chen  

Marketing Director
Mobile: +886 955-660-701 

Email: patty.chen@aiello.ai

Aiello Inc

Patricia Wang 
PR/Event Marketing Manager
Mobile: +886 933-839-219 

Email: patricia.wang@aiello.ai

Capella Taipei

Wendy Hung

wendy.hung@capellahotels.com

 

UnionPay Expands Payment Network in Australia with MyDeal Integration, Enhancing Payment Convenience for Australian Shoppers

SYDNEY, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, UnionPay International (UPI or the Company) continues to expand its footprint in Australia with the integration of UnionPay acceptance on MyDeal, one of the country’s leading online retail marketplaces. This partnership enhances shopping convenience and streamlines the payment experience for UnionPay users, reinforcing UPI’s commitment to secure, seamless, and efficient digital transactions worldwide.

MyDeal is a premier Australian online retail platform known for its wide selection of home and lifestyle products and a strong base of loyal customers. With this collaboration, MyDeal shoppers can now easily select UnionPay as their preferred payment method at checkout, benefiting from a smooth, intuitive, and secure transaction process. This marks another milestone in UPI’s efforts to broaden payment accessibility and improve the digital shopping experience for Australian users.

UnionPay has established an extensive payment network in Australia, offering several benefits to long-term UnionPay cardholders. UnionPay’s extensive online payment network spans various sectors, including department stores, supermarkets, hotels, and bill payments. With the UnionPay App’s Australian payment feature, UnionPay cardholders can conveniently pay tuition fees, utility bills, and other living expenses via BPAY.

Beyond online payments, UnionPay has also built a strong offline payment network in Australia. Nearly 95% of offline merchants and 99% of ATMs nationwide accept UnionPay. Additionally, 90% of UnionPay-accepting merchants support UnionPay QuickPass, which facilitates fast, contactless transactions. The synergy between UnionPay’s online and offline payment capabilities ensures that Cardholders benefit from a seamless, all-encompassing payment experience across different scenarios.

By expanding its e-commerce footprint with MyDeal, UnionPay continues to enhance digital payment convenience for Australian consumers. This collaboration underscores UPI’s dedication to advancing secure and seamless payment experiences, further strengthening its role in the evolving digital economy.

About MyDeal

Established in 2011 in Melbourne, MyDeal is a premier online retail marketplace in Australia, offering a carefully curated selection of high-quality home and lifestyle products from trusted retailers. MyDeal has become a preferred destination for value-conscious shoppers, delivering competitive prices, top brands, and an outstanding customer experience. Committed to making life more affordable for all Australians, MyDeal strives to provide the best deals and a seamless shopping journey. For more information, visit www.mydeal.com.au.

About UnionPay International

UnionPay International (UPI) is dedicated to expanding and supporting UnionPay’s global business. With partnerships across more than 2,600 institutions worldwide, UnionPay cards are accepted in 183 countries and regions, with issuance in 84 of them. UPI delivers high-quality, cost-effective, and secure cross-border payment solutions to the world’s largest cardholder base, ensuring seamless local services for global cardholders and merchants.

 

Artificial intelligence advances green solutions

BEIJING, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China Daily: Experts highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in accelerating green industrial upgrades and advancing global sustainable development at the 2025 Zhongguancun Forum.

Speaking at the Carbon Peak and Carbon Neutrality Science and Technology Forum, Ding Chibiao, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said AI is reshaping energy systems and driving China’s dual carbon goals.

“AI is a cornerstone of innovation for future energy structures, driving green transitions,” Ding said. China aims to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality before 2060.

Ding noted that AI adoption has already improved efficiency in high-carbon industries such as chemicals, aligning with the academy’s strategic action plan for science and technology supporting carbon peak and carbon neutrality released in 2022. He pledged deeper interdisciplinary collaboration to advance AI-enabled low-carbon energy solutions.

Ye Mao, a researcher at the academy’s Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics and head of its intelligent chemical engineering team, detailed progress in AI-driven chemical engineering.

Since 2016, a team led by Liu Zhongmin, the institute’s director and an academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, has pioneered AI applications in the field. Last year, they launched Chem-ELLM, a large model for autonomous chemical process design, followed by an upgraded Chem-ELLM 2.0 in November.

“The new version significantly improves capabilities in catalysis, safety and foundational chemistry, broadening industrial applicability,” Ye said.

More than 50 chemical companies have tested the model, with adoption growing steadily. However, Ye said traditional engineering and AI-human collaboration will continue during the transition.

“Building an intelligent chemical ecosystem requires time, but it will boost efficiency, safety and support China’s energy revolution,” he said.

At the International Forum on Sciences for Sustainable Development — part of UNESCO’s International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-2033) — global experts examined digital technology’s role in achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Guo Huadong, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and director of the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals, unveiled the Beijing Initiative on Digital Science and Technology for Sustainable Development. The plan calls for scaling AI, big data, the internet of things and space technology to combat climate change, biodiversity loss and poverty.

“Digital tools are key to optimizing energy use, cutting emissions and improving resource management,” Guo said. The initiative also advocates global platforms for sharing digital resources, integrating technology into policymaking and boosting public sustainability literacy.

Highlighting China’s contributions, Guo said SDGSAT-1, the world’s first science satellite dedicated to the 2030 agenda, has delivered more than 420,000 datasets to 104 countries since its 2021 launch. The data aids in monitoring urban heat islands, assessing emissions and disaster response.

Bybit x Block Scholes: BTC fell after touching $88K but bearish derivatives trend holds

DUBAI, UAE, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, released the latest weekly crypto derivatives analytics report in collaboration with Block Scholes. The report provides insights into macroeconomic developments, the state of crypto spot and derivatives markets, and emerging trading signals.

Key insights

Since bottoming out on March 11, crypto asset prices have climbed steadily over a two-week period, with BTC briefly surpassing $87,000 and ETH recovering above $2,000. XRP has remained relatively stable, while BTC, ETH, and SOL continue to trade below their year-opening levels. SOL, which hit an all-time high in January following Cboe’s Solana Spot ETF filing, also remains down year-to-date. While the broader market has shown signs of recovery, derivatives activity reflects lingering caution. Demand for BTC and ETH put options remains elevated, signaling ongoing hedging behavior.

Cautious rebound in perpetuals

Perpetual open interest stayed flat for most of the week, underscoring a cautious, risk-off tone. A brief market rebound saw BTC rise to $88,000 — a two-week high — triggering modest increases in perpetual trade volume, primarily driven by BTC. Still, volumes remain significantly below those recorded earlier this month, when U.S. President Donald Trump proposed a national crypto reserve centered on the four largest tokens.

Sources: Bybit, Block Scholes
Sources: Bybit, Block Scholes

Funding rates suggest persistent bearish sentiment

Despite lower realized volatility and positive price movement among major assets, BTC and ETH perpetual contracts continued to post negative funding rates. This indicates that short sellers are still paying long positions, an ongoing sign of bearish sentiment. In contrast, large-cap altcoins showed more mixed positioning, with funding rates fluctuating between positive and negative without a clear directional bias.

Volatility retreats to yearly lows

Implied volatility declined by 3 to 5 points over the past week, with 30-day options now trading at their lowest levels since the beginning of the year. Realized volatility is also nearing the 30% floor last seen in February. As typically observed in low-volatility periods, options market activity has slowed, with open interest remaining low and relatively balanced between puts and calls. Around $40 million in options expired during the week.

Access the full report

For detailed insights, readers may download the full report.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk /#BybitResearch

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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UK project-based businesses see AI as key to meeting ambitious 2025 targets, Deltek research finds

  • Technology and automation seen as potential top drivers of profitability for UK project-based businesses
  • Digital transformation is being fast-tracked, with many professional services firms already achieving a level of digital maturity that they had not expected to reach until 2027
  • 76% of project-based UK businesses entered 2025 planning to expand their workforce

LONDON, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — New research released today from Deltek, the leading global provider of software and solutions for project-based businesses, finds the UK’s project-based businesses started the year optimistic about how technology can help them reach their growth targets in 2025. Despite economic headwinds, firms are ambitious, with 83% looking to increase profit growth this year and 42% expecting to increase headcount significantly. In terms of predicted gross profit margins (GPM) this year, engineering firms started 2025 the most confident about GPM increases, with 60% predicting increases of 10% or more compared to 2024.

UK project-based businesses see AI as key to meeting ambitious 2025 targets, according to Deltek research
UK project-based businesses see AI as key to meeting ambitious 2025 targets, according to Deltek research

The research, conducted across UK-based architecture, engineering and consultancy firms, identifies technology and automation as the top potential drivers of attaining these goals. The top two priorities for firms are investing in new technology e.g. adopting AI (39%) and the effective implementation of new innovations e.g. AI (37%).

Consultancy firms are most likely to tie profitability to the successful implementation of AI, with 64% anticipating increased profits following successful AI implementation. However, architecture firms are leading the way in the focus of automation and robotic process automation (RPA), with over half (53%) of architecture firms placing it as imperative to the success of UK firms. Cybersecurity is also a high priority, with over a third (36%) of project-based firms now citing it as a top three priority for their business, compared to less than a quarter (23%) last year.

As a result of the focus on technology advancements, over half of UK project-based firms (56%) are now at a “Mature” or “Advanced” stage of their digital transformation development, up from less than a third (32%) in 2024. This indicates that firms are prioritising digital transformation and maturing more rapidly. In fact, compared to 2024 predictions on how fast they would achieve maturity in digital transformation, timelines have been brought forward two years with many professional services already achieving a level of digital maturity that they had not expected to reach until 2027. Again, Architecture firms are currently leading the way in digital transformation with nearly two-thirds (64%) at a mature or advanced stage of their journey.

The use of AI and automation are also pivotal this year in attaining key performance indicators (KPIs) for project-based businesses in the UK. Rising competition for talent (30%) and project complexity (28%) in 2025 are key pressures identified for project management in the next three years. However, 40% of firms are addressing this by prioritising the adoption of AI and automation for streamlining project processes. In 2025, confidence in tracking key project metrics (profitability, budget, and client satisfaction) has risen to 75% in 2025, up from 59% in 2024.

Neil Davidson, Group Vice President, Professional Services Sector at Deltek comments, “Professional services firms are already recognising the efficiency savings and growth opportunities provided by digital transformation. This year is a pivotal time for realising the benefits technology can bring, as firms still look to grow in 2025.”

“It’s promising to see that the shift in the use of technology is also underpinning greater  confidence in tracking project metrics – something we have not seen in our past Clarity reports. The strides professional services firms have made in implementing advancements in technology, ahead of schedule, are further improving their ability to manage the factors that contribute to attaining KPIs. Successful tracking is vital for providing insight into core business metrics, the optimisation of processes, and supporting productivity to help firms ensure they stay on-track to meet their goals.

As well as investing in technology, project-based UK businesses are also expanding their workforce, with 76% planning to increase headcount in 2025. This is a significant increase from last year, where just 58% of firms expected to expand their workforce. Engineering firms are the most ambitious in this area in terms of significant headcount increase, with 42% planning to igrow their talent pool by more than 10% this year (compared to the average 34% expecting the same level of growth across all professional services firms). However, organisations are conscious that a lack of upskilling investment (48%) and a lack of employee engagement (34%) are still detrimentally impacting their organisation. To address this and empower young professionals in 2025, firms are concentrating on promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation in the workplace (51%), encouraging continuous learning (49%), and providing access to advanced technologies (45%).

To download the full report, visit deltek.com/en-gb/clarity-report-emea.

Methodology

  • Based on an independent, self-completion online survey, conducted by 3Gem Media Group in January 2025, with 200 senior strategic decision-makers in UK Architecture, Engineering or Consulting firms.
  • To qualify, respondents had to be at a senior level including CEOs/Managing Directors (MDs), C-suite level directors, and heads of relevant departments such as finance, operations, delivery and projects, and work in firms of 20+ employees.
  • The sample consisted of 37% Architecture or A/E (architecture-led engineering), 26% Engineering (or engineering-led architecture) and 37% Consulting (management/market research) firms, and was made up of 6% small (20-50 employees), 29% medium (51-250 employees), 25% large (251 to 500 employees) and 40% very large (501+ employees) sizes of organisations.

Company Type:
This year’s survey included architecture, engineering, and consulting firms. The term ‘architecture and engineering’ (A&E) refers to all architecture, engineering, and allied firms. The term ‘consulting’ refers to management consulting and market research companies. Throughout this report, the total sample results are referred to as professional services firms.

About Deltek
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