30.1 C
Vientiane
Thursday, August 14, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 146

Synagistics Launches Digital Finance Group to Pioneer Asia’s Interoperable Multi-currency Stablecoins and Real-World Asset Tokenization Solutions Ecosystem

HONG KONG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Synagistics Limited (HKEX: 2562), Southeast Asia’s leading AI-powered digital commerce platform, today announced the launch of Synagistics Digital Finance Group (SDFG), a strategic initiative aimed at building interoperable, multi-currency stablecoins and real-world asset tokenization solutions to power Asia’s digital finance infrastructure.

This milestone marks Synagistics’ official entry into the programmable finance sector, with SDFG positioned to bridge traditional financial systems and blockchain infrastructure. The new initiative will enable the tokenized settlement of real-world assets (such as trade receivables, inventory, and future cash flows) using stablecoins pegged to multiple fiat currencies, including the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), offshore Renminbi (CNY-H), Singapore Dollar (SGD), and others. This business expansion aims to deliver efficient, programmable settlements, greater liquidity, and seamless interoperability across Asia’s increasingly complex and fragmented financial ecosystems.

Strategic Financial Infrastructure for Asia

The new venture will be led by Ms. Katherine Tsang, former Chairperson of Greater China at Standard Chartered and Founder of Max Giant Capital. Ms. Tsang currently serves as Independent Non-Executive Director (INED) at China CITIC Bank International and Fidelity Emerging Markets (LSE), together with a team of seasoned financial and payments industry veterans. With decades of experience in asset management, banking, risk governance, and regional financial integration, Ms. Tsang brings exceptional credibility and execution capability to spearhead this initiative.

“As Asia accelerates toward digital integration, the financial rails that power trade must evolve. Stablecoins and real-world asset tokenization will redefine how capital flows across borders,” said Olive Tai, CEO of Synagistics Limited. “Through SDFG, we’re building critical infrastructure to unlock efficiencies and financial inclusion across Asia’s fast-growing trade corridors.”

“I’m excited to join forces with Synagistics, a company at the forefront of digital transformation. Its digital commerce platform and ecosystem offer an ideal foundation to deliver compliant, interoperable digital payment and institutional-grade tokenization,” added Katherine Tsang. “Our goal is to create a trusted, scalable solution that supports sovereign currencies, enhances regional liquidity, and empowers businesses with 24/7 programmable money.”

Embedded Use Cases Accelerate Real-World Adoption

A key strength of SDFG lies in its ability to leverage Synagistics’ existing infrastructure and commercial partnerships to fast-track adoption:

  • In partnership with China Post Hong Kong, Synagistics is co-developing an AI-driven digital trade platform to support China brand internationalization and enable seamless two-way e-commerce flows between China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asia.
  • Working with Jiangsu Soho, a major Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) state-owned enterprise, Synagistics is rolling out a pan-regional AI-powered trade corridor across 11 countries — now integrating logistics, commerce, and programmable financial infrastructure.

These established platforms create a ready-made user base for SDFG’s tokenized payment and settlement capabilities, particularly among SMEs and exporters. In sectors where traditional finance is often slow, opaque, and costly, SDFG’s embedded use cases will significantly shorten time-to-scale while supporting regional policy efforts to boost BRI trade connectivity and digital finance innovation.

Tapping into a Trillion-Dollar Digital Trade Boom

Asia-Pacific is rapidly emerging as the global focal point for digital trade and programmable money. Southeast Asia’s e-commerce GMV is expected to surpass USD 295 billion by 2025, while intra-Asia trade—particularly among China, Central Asia, and ASEAN—is projected to exceed USD 700 billion. As regional economies seek alternatives to legacy financial networks, the market demand for regulatory-compliant, interoperable stablecoins and tokenized assets is expected to surge.

About Synagistics Limited (HKEX: 2562.HK)

Synagistics Limited is a Singapore-based AI and big data company listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The company made history by completing Hong Kong’s first-ever De-SPAC transaction and is backed by strategic shareholders including Alibaba, Gobi Partners, and Hong Kong Telecom. Synagistics is at the forefront of innovation, driving the digital transformation of Asia’s rapidly evolving economy.

As a leading provider of digital solutions in Southeast Asia, Synagistics empowers more than 600 enterprises and global brands through its flagship data-driven commerce platform, Synagie. With the launch of Geene, its enterprise-grade generative AI platform, Synagistics has significantly expanded its AI capabilities—accelerating intelligent technology adoption across industries. Building on its strong technological foundation and commercial infrastructure, the company is also advancing into digital finance and asset tokenization delivering scalable, compliant solutions that connect commerce, data, and programmable financial services. Synagistics continues to strengthen its footprint across Greater China and key international markets, enabling businesses to thrive in an AI-powered digital future.

CoAsia SEMI and Rebellions Join Forces to Jointly Develop Next-Generation AI Chiplet Based on REBEL

  • Collaboration on Development and Supply of Next-Generation AI Chiplet and Server Software
  • Development and Verification by 2026; Large-Scale Mass Production Expected

SEOUL, South Korea, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CoAsia SEMI (CEO DS, Shin), a system semiconductor design specialist subsidiary of CoAsia, is supporting the development of AI chiplet and software solutions for data centers by providing its advanced packaging technologies to Rebellions (CEO Sung hyun, Park), a Korean AI semiconductor unicorn.

CoAsia SEMI and Rebellions Join Forces to Jointly Develop Next-Generation AI Chiplet Based on REBEL
CoAsia SEMI and Rebellions Join Forces to Jointly Develop Next-Generation AI Chiplet Based on REBEL

On July 22, Rebellions and CoAsia SEMI held a signing ceremony at Rebellions’ headquarters to finalize an agreement for the development of new chiplet package based on REBEL, Rebellions’ next-generation AI chiplets. The event was attended by the CEOs of both companies and CoAsia Group Chairman Lee Hee-jun, and the two companies agreed to form a partnership to cooperate in building a global AI ecosystem.

The two companies first collaborated in April by jointly securing a national project to develop a multi-petaflops PIM server chiplet. The new joint development agreement marks a deeper level of collaboration aimed at commercializing data center products, and will incorporate CoAsia SEMI’s expertise in 2.5D silicon interposer, advanced package development, and manufacturing technologies. Compared to conventional single SoC architectures, chiplet-based design offers superior design flexibility, yield, and optimization in power and performance, making it a core technology for AI and HPC servers in data centers.

The companies expect to complete development and verification by the end of 2026 and plan to supply large-scale production volumes to domestic and global AI data centers.

This collaboration also includes participation from global OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) and IP leaders. It is expected to establish a full ecosystem for addressing the global AI semiconductor market. With the completion of a comprehensive global semiconductor value chain encompassing fabless design, packaging, OSAT, and IP, the companies aim to lay the foundation for expansion into major AI/HPC markets including the United States, Europe, and Japan.

This collaboration with CoAsia SEMI involves the joint development of an expanded heterogeneous chiplet-based product that builds upon the REBEL architecture and incorporates I/O dies and HBM3E. The joint project is expected to expand the REBEL product roadmap.

“This collaboration is part of Rebellions’ strategy to diversify its AI semiconductor product lineup in response to the rapidly evolving AI market,” said Sung hyun, Park CEO and Co-founder of Rebellions.

“It signals the full-scale application of REBEL’s chiplet architecture and CoAsia SEMI’s advanced packaging capabilities. Through strategic collaboration with key partners like CoAsia SEMI, we will build a the next-generation packaging ecosystem that goes beyond development and leads all the way to mass production and commercialization.”

DS Shin, CEO of CoAsia SEMI, stated,

“The strategic technical collaboration between CoAsia SEMI and Rebellions — which brings together design, packaging, and software technologies — will play a pivotal role in shaping the AI semiconductor ecosystem.

Following this agreement, we plan to expand development and mass production supply with a Tier-1 AI customer in the United States soon, and will continue to secure our technological leadership in the fast-growing global AI semiconductor market.”

About CoAsia SEMI

CoAsia SEMI is a Samsung Foundry Design Solution Partner. The company specializes in advanced semiconductor design, silicon interposer development, and 2.5D/3D packaging technologies for AI and HPC markets.

About Rebellions

Rebellions is a South Korea-based AI semiconductor company focused on developing high-performance, energy-efficient accelerators for enterprise AI infrastructure and hyperscale data centers.

Skimlinks Partners with ChineseAN to expand revenue opportunities across Greater China and Global Markets

HONG KONG, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Skimlinks, a Taboola Company, today announces a commercial partnership with ChineseAN, a leading Affiliate Network in Greater China and South East Asia. This collaboration brings together Skimlinks’ powerful publisher network and ChineseAN’s extensive network of regionally focused advertisers to unlock new revenue opportunities and drive market growth.

Skimlinks publishers in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan now have access to leading global and local brands represented by ChineseAN, including Hyatt Hotels, Diane von Furstenberg, Philips, Skechers, Tommy Hilfiger, YSL Beauty, Kiehl’s, Kerastase, POLO Ralph Lauren and PUMA.

“We are excited to partner with ChineseAN to bring even more advertiser partnerships to our publishers in the region. The new brands in our network will enable publishers to create commerce content closely aligned with consumers’ local needs,” says Gaurav Arora, Global Partnerships Director at Skimlinks.

By leveraging Skimlinks’ network, including Yahoo Hong Kong, South China Morning Post, Conde Nast Taiwan, Hearst Taiwan, and Marie Claire Taiwan, ChineseAN advertisers can broaden their reach and drive incremental revenue.

Arora continues, “Skimlinks is delighted to take the next step in our journey in Greater China and Southeast Asia together with ChineseAN. Our partners in the region are already scaling commerce content into a meaningful source of revenue for their business and the additional advertiser partners available through ChineseAN represent a significant growth opportunity for publishers.”

“At ChineseAN, we believe the future of digital marketing lies in building authentic, scalable connections between brands and promotion channels. ChineseAN embodies this vision by combining advanced tracking technologies, intelligent optimisation tools, and a trusted network of quality publishers to deliver qualified leads and real conversions.” Says Joseph Lam, Founder & CEO ChineseAN, “Our expertise allows us to create tailored solutions that help advertisers reach customers with precision and efficiency, while empowering publishers to monetise their content effectively.”

The integration also provides transparency, giving ChineseAN’s brands access to comprehensive data on the specific publishers driving traffic and sales. Brands will be able to make more data-driven decisions and refine their affiliate strategies with detailed information broken down by publisher, including data on clicks, conversions, average order value, and conversion rates.

Lam adds, “In the past 18 years, ChineseAN has built up a very extensive network of brands and promotion channels in the Greater China and South East Asia region. Building win-win partnership, with strong mutual support and seamless data integration, has been our belief. We are happy to collaborate with Skimlinks, and believe this will help to expand our publisher channels to more international publishers, especially those which also operates in the region.”

About ChineseAN

ChineseAN is a leading affiliate platform operated under Ignite Vision Limited, a marketing technology company founded in Hong Kong in 2007. As the world’s first affiliate network covering Chinese and English websites globally, ChineseAN remains the only network offering comprehensive coverage across the Greater China region and South East Asia. Recognised as a pioneer of performance marketing in the region, ChineseAN leverages innovative advertising technology to deliver effective marketing solutions for brands expanding into China and Southeast Asia.

ChineseAN forms close partnership with various publishers and enhance results through adoption of the latest technologies. Among its thousands of publisher partners are top news and media portals, mobile apps, influencers, bloggers and individual affiliates. ChineseAN also works closely with loyalty partners across the Asia-Pacific region, including frequent flyer programs, retail and telecommunication companies and credit cards. These numerous partnerships offer brands extensive exposure and strong customer engagement, besides orders and revenue.

As part of Ignite Vision Limited, ChineseAN benefits from a robust regional infrastructure with teams in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei. Together with its sister platform Starry, an AI-powered influencer marketing platform, Ignite Vision empowers brands to achieve various marketing objectives through advanced technology and data-driven strategies.

About Skimlinks

Skimlinks is the leading commerce content monetization platform. Its technology automatically monetizes product links in commerce-related content to earn publishers a share of sales they drive. Its platform is a one stop solution providing the technology and the data to start and scale content commerce strategies across desktop and mobile.

Skimlinks is a Taboola company. Learn more at skimlinks.com.

New ETC report demonstrates that wind and solar-dominant power systems are competitive, reliable, and technically and economically feasible

LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) has today published a landmark report, Power Systems Transformation: Delivering Competitive, Resilient Electricity in High-Renewable Systems. The report sets out that global power systems dominated by wind and solar generation can reliably deliver electricity at costs comparable to or lower than today’s fossil fuel-based power systems in most parts of the world.

Electricity is projected to provide up to 70% of global final energy consumption in a decarbonised energy system, growing from around 20% today. Total global electricity demand could potentially triple, reaching 90,000 TWh by 2050 compared to 30,000 TWh today, and be met with new generation predominantly from wind and solar.

A Global Opportunity

The report shows that many countries can operate power systems with 70% or more electricity from wind and solar, using proven technologies available today, like battery storage, other energy storage, long-distance transmission, and flexible energy use. It highlights significant regional opportunities:

  • “Sun belt” countries – including India, Mexico, and much of Africa – are best-positioned to cut power system costs by transitioning to low-cost, solar-led systems, which mainly require day-night balancing.
  • In contrast, “wind belt” countries – such as the UK, Germany, and Canada – that rely on higher shares of wind face higher balancing costs, but can still achieve affordable, stable systems through smart policy and innovation.
  • In many regions, long-distance transmission lines can be one of the most cost-effective solutions to balancing supply and demand, and should be maximised where feasible.

Rapid electrification of buildings, transport and industries and decarbonisation of power systems must advance together to keep costs per kilowatt-hour affordable for consumers and businesses.

“Multiple technologies, including nuclear and geothermal, may play a role in zero-carbon power systems. But wind and solar will be the dominant source of power in most countries, providing 70% or more of electricity at costs at or below today’s fossil-based systems. In particular, in the global sun belt, the collapsing cost of solar PV and batteries makes possible far cheaper and more rapid growth in green electricity supply than seemed feasible 10 years ago. But wind belt countries can also achieve cost-effective decarbonisation by leading in offshore wind, long-duration storage, and grid innovation.” said Adair Turner, Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission.

Key Findings:

  • It is technically possible for wind- and solar-dominant systems to be stable and resilient with the right mix of balancing and grid technologies. These systems are no more likely to experience blackouts than thermal generation-dominated systems.
  • High wind and solar systems can be competitive with today’s wholesale prices and grid costs. Sun belt countries could see costs more than halve to $30$40/MWh by 2050. Wind-dependent country costs (e.g., UK) are higher, but in the future could be comparable to current levels.
  • The “last mile” of decarbonisation will be the most expensive, particularly in countries which need ultra-long duration balancing to meet seasonal variations in supply and demand. Once countries have reached very low levels of carbon intensity (e.g., less than 50g per kWh), electrification is more important than rapid last-mile decarbonisation.
  • Up to 30% of all global power demand could be time-shifted through demand-side flexibility. This requires the development of dynamic pricing and the use of smart management technologies.
  • Grid costs per kWh can be kept stable. Total global grid length will need to more than double by 2050, reaching around 150–200 million km. Annual grid investment could rise from $370 billion in 2024, peaking at $870 billion in the 2030s. However, ~35% of grid expansion costs (equivalent to $1.3 trillion in Europe1) could be avoided between now and 2050 through the usage of innovative grid technologies.
  • Delivering low-cost, high variable renewable energy power systems will require strategic vision and planning, including market reform to put all technologies on a level playing field, grid modernisation enabled by innovative technologies, supply chain development strategies and customer engagement.

“Clean electricity is essential for climate action and is the most affordable way to power economic development. Countries can build resilient economies fit for the future by investing in renewables, grids, and flexibility now. Indeed it is their obligation to do so, according to the recent ICJ advisory opinion. Low-cost, clean power is what people, industry and businesses want. Countries must deliver it now, and this report shows that they can.” said Christiana Figueres, Founding Partner, Global Optimism.

Policymakers, the power industry, and financial institutions should collaborate to ensure:

  • Appropriate planning of high wind/solar systems to expedite planning approvals and minimise deployment bottlenecks.
  • Electrification of demand that keeps pace with generation and grid build-out to avoid the cost per kWh increasing for consumers.
  • Accelerate power market reforms to unlock investment in critical technologies.
  • Address workforce and supply chain bottlenecks to enable delivery at scale.

“Renewables are the core of the global energy transition, delivering clean, reliable, and affordable power. Wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal, storage and modern grids are transforming electricity systems and opening new opportunities for growth, investment, and energy security.

To keep this momentum, deployment must advance alongside grid expansion, market reform, and investment. Together, these build competitive, resilient systems that support jobs and economic progress. With governments leading and the private sector supporting, renewables will deliver a clean, secure, and just energy future.” said Bruce Douglas, CEO at Global Renewables Alliance.

The ETC also published a supplementary briefing, Connecting the World: Long-Distance Transmission as a Key Enabler of a Zero-Carbon Economy, focused on the role of cross-border interconnectors and long-distance transmission in accelerating the energy transition.

Additional Quotes

Additional quotes from Ausgrid, Iberdrola, Mission Possible Partnership, Octopus Energy, Schneider Electric, SSE, Ember, and Transition Zero are available here.

About the ETC:
Power Systems Transformation: Delivering Competitive, Resilient Electricity in High-Renewable Systems was developed in collaboration with ETC members from across industry, financial institutions, and civil society. The Energy Transitions Commission is a global coalition of leaders from across the energy landscape committed to achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century. This report constitutes a collective view of the ETC; however, it should not be taken as members agreeing with every finding or recommendation.

Download the report: https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/HXpOC14zlTp3o0nsXs4iV1vhC?domain=energy-transitions.org/

For further information on the ETC, please visit: https://www.energy-transitions.org

1 BNEF (2024), New Energy Outlook.

SM nurtures next generation of entrepreneurs

PASAY CITY, Philippines, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Anchored on an inclusive supply chain network, the SM group’s partner-MSMEs (micro, small, medium enterprises) have grown alongside the group.

Home to the largest MSME community, SM is supporting over 100,000 MSMEs to date. Within the hundred thousand MSMEs are next generation entrepreneurs – Gen Zs (ages 13 to 28) and Millennials (ages 29-44).

From providing a marketplace to showcase their products, marketing support to financial access, the SM group continues to enable the growth of these young entrepreneurs.

Launchpad and marketplace for dreamers

Close to 70% SM Supermalls tenants are MSMEs.

Championing the next generation of Filipino business leaders, Mr. Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls shared, “We’ve seen a growing presence of Gen Z and Millennial entrepreneurs across our MSME programs. These young, up-and-coming business owners have been actively joining our fairs and leasing spaces. Many are first-time entrepreneurs, creatives, or former online sellers who now see the value of connecting with customers face-to-face. SM is here to be the launchpad and marketplace of their dreams.”

Aspiring entrepreneurs often discover the possibility of being a tenant through SM Supermalls MSME application portal, ongoing pop-up markets like the Viyline MSME Caravan, Artisan, Souk Fair and the Art Market to name a few.

“Working with these young entrepreneurs is always refreshing. We’ve seen firsthand how their energy and innovation breathe new life into our malls, turning booths into mini experiences and side hustles into real businesses,” Mr. San Agustin added.

Strong advocate for small businesses

Kultura, a retail brand of the SM group, was always a dream platform for Hannah Garcia, founder of Pamanna Jewelry. She was 28 years old when she started her business which began as a passion project – brewed by early exposure to retail and craftsmanship.

Kultura has around 15 to 20 Gen Z and Millennial partner-suppliers who, like Ms. Garcia, had the courage to start on their own.

“We choose our suppliers based on their understanding of the market and if they can develop the products we need. We also assess their willingness to grow with Kultura and if their values align with ours,” shared Sheila Tan, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations, Kultura.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

BlackLine Appoints Greg Hughes to Board of Directors, Expanding Enterprise Software and Strategic Growth Expertise

LOS ANGELES, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BlackLine, Inc. (Nasdaq: BL), the future-ready financial operations platform for the Office of the CFO, today announced the appointment of Greg Hughes to its Board of Directors effective July 25, 2025. A seasoned enterprise software executive, Hughes brings decades of experience leading strategic transformation at scale.

Hughes most recently served as CEO of Veritas, a global leader in data protection and other mission-critical software. Under his leadership, Veritas re-ignited ARR growth, successfully transitioned to a new subscription pricing model, and created and scaled a cloud business. The transformation of Veritas culminated in a merger of the data protection business with Cohesity, an AI-powered data security and management company. Hughes continues to serve on the board of the merged entity.

In addition to his executive roles, Hughes brings significant public board experience, having served on the board of LogMeIn, a publicly traded collaboration software company, from 2011 to 2017.

Hughes’ appointment follows the addition of Sam Balaji, former CEO of Deloitte Consulting, to BlackLine’s board in June 2025. Together, Hughes and Balaji bring decades of executive leadership across enterprise software, consulting, cybersecurity, and digital transformation—adding to an already experienced and engaged board that continues to play a vital role in guiding BlackLine’s growth and innovation strategy.

“We are thrilled to welcome Greg to BlackLine’s Board of Directors,” said Owen Ryan, Co-CEO and Chairman of the Board of BlackLine. “With Greg and Sam joining an already strong and strategic board, we are deepening our bench of expertise in enterprise technology, global operations, and transformation at scale. The collective leadership and experience of our board is a powerful asset as we continue executing our strategy and delivering long-term value to our customers and shareholders.”

“Greg’s track record of scaling companies and leading through inflection points makes him a natural fit for BlackLine,” added Therese Tucker, Co-CEO and Founder of BlackLine. “He understands what it takes to build and grow category-defining platforms, and I’m excited to welcome him as we continue to innovate for the Office of the CFO.”

“BlackLine has built a differentiated platform with significant opportunities ahead,” said Greg Hughes. “I’m honored to join the board and look forward to working with the other board members and leadership team to help advance the company’s strategy and support its continued momentum as a category leader in financial operations.”

About BlackLine
BlackLine (Nasdaq: BL), the future-ready platform for the Office of the CFO, drives digital finance transformation by empowering organizations with accurate, efficient, and intelligent financial operations.

BlackLine’s comprehensive platform addresses mission-critical processes, including record-to-report and invoice-to-cash, enabling unified and accurate data, streamlined and optimized processes, and real-time insight through visibility, automation, and AI. BlackLine’s proven, collaborative approach ensures continuous transformation, delivering immediate impact and sustained value. With a proven track record of innovation, industry-leading R&D investment, and world-class security practices, more than 4,400 customers across multiple industries partner with BlackLine to lead their organizations into the future.

For more information, please visit blackline.com.

 Media Contact

Samantha Darilek
VP, Communications,
samantha.darilek@blackline.com

Investor Contact:

Matt Humphries
SVP, Investor Relations,
matt.humphries@blackline.com

Safe Harbor

This document contains forward-looking statements. These statements may relate to, but are not limited to, expectations of future operating results or financial performance of BlackLine, Inc. (“BlackLine” or the “Company”), the calculation of certain key financial and operating metrics, capital expenditures, introduction of new solutions or products, expansion into new markets, regulatory compliance, plans for growth and future operations, technological capabilities, and strategic relationships, as well as assumptions relating to the foregoing. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “intend,” “potential,” “would,” “continue,” “ongoing” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved, if at all.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management’s good faith beliefs and assumptions as of that time with respect to future events, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward looking statements. In light of these risks and uncertainties, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this presentation may not occur and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are described in greater detail under the heading “Risk Factors” in the filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) from time to time, which are available on our website at http://investors.BlackLine.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Except as required by law, BlackLine does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. 

In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this presentation, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.

In addition to U.S. GAAP financials, this document includes certain non-GAAP financial measures, including non-GAAP revenue, gross profit, gross margin, free cash flow, sales and marketing expense, research and development expense, general and administrative expense, loss from operations and operating margin (loss). These non-GAAP measures are in addition to, not a substitute for or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measures we use may differ from the non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies.

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/blackline_company_logo.jpg

FROM THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2025: U.S. POINTER STUDY SHOWS STRUCTURED LIFESTYLE PROGRAM TARGETING MULTIPLE RISK FACTORS IMPROVES COGNITION IN OLDER ADULTS AT RISK OF COGNITIVE DECLINE

Key Takeaways

  • Two lifestyle interventions in U.S. POINTER improved cognition in older adults at risk of cognitive decline. A structured intervention with more support and accountability showed greater improvement compared to a self-guided intervention.
  • In a large, representative group of older adults at high risk for cognitive decline, multidomain lifestyle interventions were delivered with high adherence and safety.
  • Cognitive benefits were consistent across age, sex, ethnicity, heart health status and apolipoprotein E-e4 genotype.

TORONTO, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Alzheimer’s Association U.S. Study to Protect Brain Health Through Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Risk (U.S. POINTER) — a two-year, multi-site clinical trial testing two different lifestyle interventions in a representative population of older adults at risk for cognitive decline and dementia — found that both interventions improved cognition in older adults at risk of cognitive decline. Trial participants in the structured (STR) intervention showed greater improvement on global cognition compared to the self-guided (SG) intervention, protecting cognition from normal age-related decline for up to two years. The STR intervention differed from the SG intervention in intensity, structure, accountability and support provided.

The results were reported for the first time today at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2025 in Toronto and online. “Effects Of Structured vs Self-Guided Multidomain Lifestyle Interventions for Global Cognitive Function: The U.S. POINTER Randomized Clinical Trial,” was published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) simultaneously with the report at AAIC 2025.

U.S. POINTER is the first large-scale, randomized controlled clinical trial to demonstrate that an accessible and sustainable healthy lifestyle intervention can protect cognitive function in diverse populations in communities across the United States.

“As the burden of dementia grows world-wide, U.S. POINTER affirms a vital public health message: healthy behavior has a powerful impact on brain health,” said Joanne Pike, DrPH, Alzheimer’s Association president and CEO.

“This is a critical public health opportunity. The intervention was effective across a broad, representative group — regardless of sex, ethnicity, APOE genetic risk, or heart health status — demonstrating its applicability and scalability for communities across the country,” said Pike. “The positive results of U.S. POINTER encourage us to look at the potential for a combination of a lifestyle program and drug treatment as the next frontier in our fight against cognitive decline and possibly dementia.”

U.S. POINTER leadership acknowledges participants, their family members and study site staff for their unique and essential contributions: “You helped change what we know about brain health. Thanks to your dedication, time and support, U.S. POINTER delivered groundbreaking results. Your children, grandchildren and generations to come will benefit from the commitment you made.”

Both interventions focused on physical exercise, nutrition, cognitive challenge and social engagement, and heart health monitoring, but differed in intensity, structure, accountability and support provided.

  • Structured lifestyle intervention. Participants attended 38 facilitated peer team meetings over two years, and were provided with a prescribed activity program with measurable goals for: aerobic, resistance and stretching exercise; adherence to the MIND diet; cognitive challenge through BrainHQ training and other intellectual and social activities; and regular review of health metrics and goal-setting with a study clinician.
  • Self-guided lifestyle intervention. Participants attended six peer team meetings to encourage self-selected lifestyle changes that best fit their needs and schedules. Study staff provided general encouragement without goal-directed coaching.

“The potential to improve cognition with fewer resources and lower participant burden is compelling. It highlights that while not everyone has the same access or ability to adhere to more intensive behavior interventions, even modest changes may protect the brain,” said Laura D. Baker, Ph.D., Professor of Gerontology and Geriatrics, and Internal Medicine, at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Advocate Health, and U.S. POINTER principal investigator.

“These are the initial results. Over the coming weeks and months, study leadership will be exploring all of the data collected in the trial to paint an even more comprehensive picture of the U.S. POINTER intervention effects on brain health,” Baker said.

People with cognitive decline and dementia often have a variety of damaging changes in their brain. This means effective treatment will likely require a multi-pronged or combination strategy to address multiple disease mechanisms.

“Complex diseases like heart disease and cancer use combination treatment strategies tailored to individual characteristics. The next generation of treatments for diseases like Alzheimer’s will likely integrate drug and non-drug strategies. U.S. POINTER provides a strong foundation for such combination approaches,” said Heather M. Snyder, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association study primary investigator and senior vice president of medical and scientific relations.

“While these results are fascinating and extremely hopeful, how they are rolled out to the public — especially those at risk for Alzheimer’s and other diseases that cause dementia — needs to be handled with care and individual attention to tailor to the local environment,” said Snyder.

The Alzheimer’s Association has invested nearly $50 million to lead this study to date, with additional support from the National Institute on Aging at the National Institutes of Health for add-on studies exploring imaging, vascular measures, sleep and gut microbiome-related health data. In addition to its investments to date, the Alzheimer’s Association will invest more than $40 million over the next four years to continue to follow U.S. POINTER participants, and to bring U.S. POINTER interventions to communities across America.

U.S. POINTER is a phase 3, five-site, two-year, single-blind randomized clinical trial of two lifestyle interventions in older adults at risk for dementia. U.S. POINTER was developed to assess whether the results of the FINGER study [Lancet, 6-6-15] generalize to a larger, more diverse U.S. population at risk for cognitive decline and dementia, using culturally adapted protocols. The primary aim was to compare the effects of two multimodal lifestyle interventions on global cognitive function in 2,000+ at-risk older adults. Secondary aims assessed intervention effects on specific cognitive domains, and potential differences based on baseline cognition, sex, age, APOE-e4 genotype, and cardiovascular risk.

The study was conducted at five geographically dispersed U.S. academic centers and health care systems in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association. Participant eligibility criteria were designed to enrich the risk of cognitive decline and included older age (60-79 years), sedentary lifestyle, suboptimal diet and cardiometabolic health, and family history of memory impairment. 2,111 participants were enrolled and randomized to STR (n=1,056) or SG (n=1,055). Mean age was 68.2 years, 68.9% were female, 30.8% were from ethnoracial minority groups. Seventy-eight percent (78%) reported a first-degree family history of memory loss, and 30% were APOE-e4 carriers. Retention was high, with 89% completing the final 2 year assessment.

At two years, there was a statistically significant intervention group difference on the primary outcome. Global cognitive composite scores (primary outcome) increased over time in both groups but the improvement over time was statistically significant for a greater benefit for the STR versus SG: 0.029 SD per year (95% CI, 0.008-0.050, P=0.008). For secondary outcomes, the increase in executive function z-score was greater in STR than SG by 0.037 SD per year (95% CI, 0.010-0.064). Processing speed showed a similar trend but was not statistically significant. There were no group differences in memory.

Looking ahead, the Association will build on the momentum of U.S. POINTER by launching several programs and initiatives, including:

  • A personal brain health assessment tool.
  • A virtual brain health training program for health care providers.
  • A community recognition program for organizations championing brain health.
  • A brain health roundtable that will unite leaders across health care, public health, community and corporate sectors to accelerate impact.

About AAIC
AAIC is the world’s largest gathering of researchers from around the world focused on Alzheimer’s and other diseases that cause dementia. As a part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s research program, AAIC serves as a catalyst for generating new knowledge about dementia and fostering a vital, collegial research community.
AAIC 2025: alz.org/aaic
AAIC 2025 newsroom: alz.org/aaic/pressroom.asp
AAIC 2025 hashtag: #AAIC25

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call +1 800.272.3900.

Eventify Launches Comprehensive Event Marketing Suite

Comprehensive platform addresses $34.7 billion market with integrated email campaigns, social virality tools, and drag-and-drop website builder for event managers worldwide

LONDON, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Eventify, the all-in-one event marketing software platform, today announced the launch of its comprehensive marketing suite designed specifically for B2B event managers. The platform combines advanced email marketing automation, viral social media tools, and intuitive website builders into a unified solution addressing the rapidly expanding event management market, projected to reach $34.7 billion by 2029.

Revolutionary social marketing drives unprecedented engagement

The platform’s standout Social Viralizer feature automatically generates personalized social media graphics for each attendee during registration, creating viral marketing campaigns that reach an average of 2,500+ potential attendees per share. Event managers using the tool report 500% average ROI on marketing spend through organic sharing alone, with 72% of attendees actively promoting events when provided with custom social content.

“We’re solving the fundamental challenge every event manager faces: how to maximize attendance and engagement while operating under tight budgets and time constraints,” said Hussain Fakhruddin, CEO of Eventify. “Our platform transforms hours of manual marketing work into automated campaigns that deliver measurable results.”

Comprehensive email marketing drives superior performance

Eventify’s visual email builder enables event organizers to create professional campaigns with drag-and-drop functionality, achieving 2.8X higher open rates than generic promotional emails. The platform automates everything from registration confirmations to post-event follow-ups, with 83% of organizers using integrated marketing tools successfully reaching their registration targets.

The accompanying website builder offers both single landing pages for focused campaigns and comprehensive multi-page sites, all optimized for mobile devices and integrated with secure payment processing.

Timing aligned with industry transformation

Eventify’s event management software addresses critical market needs identified in recent industry research, including the 95% of events teams prioritizing ROI demonstration and the growing demand for hybrid event capabilities. With 74% of Fortune 1000 marketers planning increased event budgets in 2025.

“The event marketing industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, but existing solutions are either too complex for mid-market teams or lack the sophisticated features modern events require,” added Fakhruddin. “Eventify bridges this gap perfectly.”

About Eventify: Eventify’s event app integrates with Salesforce, HubSpot, Zapier, and over 1,000 third-party applications, supporting the 60% of events now utilizing hybrid formats while maintaining the simplicity event managers demand in an increasingly complex landscape.