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The British Virgin Islands secures BBB/A-2 sovereign credit rating by S&P

Agency action and stable outlook underscore territory’s stability, position as global financial services hub

ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The British Virgin Islands’ investment in its institutional framework and economic development has designated the territory’s sovereign credit rating as investment grade BBB/A-2 by S&P. The rating was accompanied by a “stable” outlook, indicating that the BVI is on sound footing as a hub for global financial services and warrants increased investor confidence. The internally self-governing territory was noted for a prudent approach to managing public finances and working to mitigate risks in its environment.

This credit rating is expected to lower borrowing costs for government projects, benefitting residents and businesses through enhancements to infrastructure and public services as well as economic growth opportunities. The S&P rating provides an opportunity for businesses operating in the BVI to have increased access to financing, as well, which could improve trade relationships and overall market stability. The territory is fully committed to ensuring the long-term stability and opportunity that this rating is and will continue to be based on.

“The British Virgin Islands has made a strong, long-term commitment to accountability, transparency and responsibility in fiscal matters, and our efforts have not gone unnoticed. We are pleased to share our sovereign credit rating by S&P — a result that has involved considerable time and effort and that will secure economic opportunity for our territory and for those who choose to do business here,” said the Honorable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance for the BVI. “This rating signifies that our global financial services industry rests on a solid foundation; moreover, it is poised to meet the complex and diverse needs of today’s savvy investors.”

The credit agency’s review noted a demonstration of the territory’s institutional stability — including its fiscal discipline and prudence and its consistent, sustainable economic policies — as well as potential for near-term economic growth. Moreover, with the U.S. dollar as its official currency, the BVI has “a stable institutional and economic anchor” that supports stability, and its banking system is considered generally well capitalized.

“Beyond providing our international business clientele with the reassurance they seek in establishing commitments in and conducting timely and sensitive transactions through the BVI, this credit rating is a boon to our local economy,” continued Wheatley.

The BVI’s creditworthiness and stable outlook speak to resilience and stability, placing the territory on par with other globally recognized financial centers. The rating supports assurance to institutional investors, global financial institutions, development partners and others who conduct business within the territory, which is proving an attractive destination for foreign direct investment and private sector opportunities. Further, the BVI’s clear commitment to maintaining a long-term economic strategy, regulatory framework and transparency contributed to its trusted reputation among global businesses, asset managers and financial services firms.

About the Ministry of Finance of the Government of the Virgin Islands
The Ministry of Finance is committed to managing the financial affairs of the Government of the Virgin Islands. Its primary duties include formulating and implementing fiscal policies, overseeing public sector budgets, managing government revenues and expenditures, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and standards. More information is available at bvi.gov.vg/ministry/ministry-of-finance.

Media Contact
Kristen Sharkey
FINN Partners
+1 203 644 4899
kristen.sharkey@finnpartners.com

 

QATAR TO CREATE A PERMANENT NATIONAL PAVILION IN THE GIARDINI OF VENICE, HISTORIC VENUE OF LA BIENNALE DI VENEZIA

The Qatar Pavilion at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia to Feature Two-Part Exhibition Organised by Qatar’s Future Art Mill Museum, with an Installation on the Site of the Qatar Pavilion and a Presentation at ACP-Palazzo Franchetti

DOHA, Qatar and VENICE, Italy, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Qatar will build a national pavilion in the historic venue of Giardini della Biennale, which first opened to the public in 1895. Qatar will join 30 other nations with permanent pavilions in the Giardini. Only two others have opened there in the last 50 years (Australia and Republic of Korea).

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums and commissioner of the Qatar Pavilion, said, “La Biennale di Venezia is the world’s pre-eminent gathering in art and architecture, and the Giardini is the historic landscape where extraordinary pavilions stand as ambassadors for their nations. Qatar is proud to take its place in this international assembly, advancing our role as a global leader in cultural diplomacy and providing an unparalleled platform for giving voice to the creative talent of our nation and the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia region.”

Pietrangelo Buttafuoco, President of La Biennale di Venezia, said, “Venice is the only European city to have had, since the year 1000 CE, a name in Arabic, Bunduqiyyah, a fact that testifies to the teeming mixture of languages and ethnicities that have long sheltered here. In the spirit of curiosity, exploration, and sincere human exchange that characterises Venice and its Biennale, I welcome Qatar to the Giardini, as a powerful global source of creativity and cross-cultural understanding.”

The new Qatar Pavilion will be located in the Giardini, adjacent to the iconic Book Pavilion.

Qatar will begin to activate its site in May 2025 during the 19th International Architecture Exhibition by presenting a major installation, Community Centre, by Pakistani architect Yasmeen Lari.

The installation will be part of the exhibition Beyti Beytak. My home is your home. La mia casa è la tua casa., presented at both the Giardini and ACP-Palazzo Franchetti. In keeping with the theme of the Biennale Architettura 2025, Beyti Beytak. My home is your home. La mia casa è la tua casa. will explore how hospitality and traditions of welcome are embodied in the contemporary architecture and landscapes throughout the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA). Paying tribute to pioneering architects and thinkers, the exhibition will feature works by more than 20 modern and contemporary architects from the MENASA region, including several whose work has not previously been shown in Venice.

The exhibition is commissioned by H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa and Qatar Museums and organised by the future Art Mill Museum. It is curated by Aurélien Lemonier, Art Mill Museum Curator of Architecture, and Sean Anderson, Associate Professor at Cornell University, with the collaboration of Virgile Alexandre.

Quantinuum’s “Reimei” Quantum Computer Now Fully Operational at RIKEN, Ushering in a New Era of Hybrid Quantum High-Performance Computing

Quantinuum’s “Reimei” quantum computer installed at RIKEN‘s world-class facility will accelerate scientific progress of quantum computing across physics, chemistry, and other applications

TOKYO, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Quantinuum, the world’s largest integrated quantum computing company, and RIKEN, Japan’s largest comprehensive research institution, today announced the successful on-premise installation of Quantinuum’s “Reimei” quantum computer at RIKEN’s Wako campus in Saitama, Japan. RIKEN has designed, prepared, and delivered a world-class facility for the trapped-ion quantum computer, which will enable generations of high-performance quantum systems.

Quantinuum's System Model H1 Trapped-Ion Quantum Computer
Quantinuum’s System Model H1 Trapped-Ion Quantum Computer

This state-of-the-art machine is now fully operational, ushering in a new era of discovery and innovation. With its installation at RIKEN’s world-class facility, Japanese researchers now have direct, on-site access to Quantinuum’s cutting-edge quantum computing technology, renowned for being the highest performing systems in the world. Quantinuum’s hardware stands out as the only available system using a unique architecture that physically moves qubits, unlocking new tools and possibilities unavailable on other platforms. The exceptional performance and consistency of the system are supported by the stability of the facility’s world-class environment, which is designed, built, and maintained to maximize the capabilities of Quantinuum’s quantum computers.

Named “Reimei,” which translates into “dawn” in Japanese, this powerful quantum computer symbolizes the incredible potential of quantum technology and integrated hybrid computational platforms. The trapped-ion quantum computer by Quantinuum will work in harmony with RIKEN’s famed Japanese flagship supercomputer Fugaku, creating a cutting-edge quantum-HPC hybrid platform designed to tackle computations that surpasses the capabilities of traditional supercomputers—an exciting leap forward for scientific research.

This groundbreaking installation is part of an ambitious project commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), a national research and development entity under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Dr. Mitsuhisa Sato, Division Director of the Quantum-HPC Hybrid Platform Division, RIKEN Center for Computational Science, said: “Reimei’s high-fidelity qubits and all-to-all connectivity will significantly enhance the research possibilities of our quantum-HPC hybrid platform. We are thrilled to explore new frontiers in scientific research on quantum-HPC hybrid applications by using the Quantinuum system with our Fugaku.”

Dr. Rajeeb Hazra, President and CEO of Quantinuum, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “This installation represents a pivotal moment for our global strategy, marking the first on-site deployment of our quantum technology outside the U.S. We are eager to collaborate with RIKEN’s exceptional researchers, whose expertise will be instrumental in driving unprecedented scientific breakthroughs.”

About RIKEN

RIKEN, a National Research and Development Agency, is Japan’s largest comprehensive research institution renowned for high-quality research in a diverse range of scientific disciplines. Founded in 1917, initially as a private research foundation, RIKEN has grown rapidly in size and scope, today encompassing a network of world-class research centers and institutes across Japan.

About Quantinuum   

Quantinuum, the world’s largest and leading integrated quantum company, pioneers powerful quantum computers and advanced software solutions. Quantinuum’s technology drives breakthroughs in materials discovery, cybersecurity, and next-gen quantum AI. With over 500 employees, including 370+ scientists and engineers, Quantinuum leads the quantum computing revolution across continents.  

For more information, please visit the website at www.quantinuum.com

 

 

BLUESTAR ALLIANCE ACQUIRES PALM ANGELS®

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bluestar Alliance LLC, a leading global brand management firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Palm Angels® luxury streetwear brand. The acquisition of Palm Angels follows Bluestar Alliance’s recent acquisition of Off-White from LVMH, and underscores Bluestar Alliance’s continued expansion into the high-end streetwear and luxury fashion sectors.  The addition of Palm Angels strengthens Bluestar’s portfolio of both iconic and emerging brands, solidifying its leadership in the luxury streetwear market.

BLUESTAR ALLIANCE ACQUIRES PALM ANGELS®
BLUESTAR ALLIANCE ACQUIRES PALM ANGELS®

Born in 2015, Palm Angels has rapidly become a global leader in blending luxury fashion with street culture. Known for its distinctive aesthetic that merges American skate culture with Italian craftsmanship, the brand has garnered a loyal following and significant influence within the fashion world.

“We are thrilled to welcome Palm Angels into the Bluestar Alliance brand portfolio,” said Joey Gabbay, CEO of Bluestar Alliance. “The brand’s unique ability to bridge the worlds of streetwear and luxury has set it apart in the fashion industry. We are committed to supporting Palm Angels as it continues to evolve, innovate, and expand its global presence. This acquisition aligns perfectly with Bluestar’s strategy of growing iconic brands with strong cultural relevance and consumer appeal.”

Ralph Gindi, COO of Bluestar Alliance added, “Palm Angels is a brand that speaks directly to the cultural trailblazers—the underground tastemakers and fashion leaders who shape the future of style. In every community, there are those that set the trends, the visionaries who guide fashion’s evolution, and those individuals are wearing Palm Angels. As we enter this exciting new chapter, we’re proud to bring together creative forces from around the globe to continue shape the future of fashion.”

“Palm Angels has been shaping the intersection of luxury and street culture.

As it enters a new chapter, I step away with confidence and wish them the greatest success ahead,” said Francesco Ragazzi.

About Palm Angels:
Palm Angels started in 2011 as a photographic documentation of LA’s skater culture by Francesco Ragazzi and evolved into clothing in 2015, becoming known for its contemporary take on cultural signifiers and rebellious spirit. Palm Angels has become synonymous with contemporary luxury streetwear, attracting a global fanbase that includes fashion insiders, musicians, and celebrities alike.

About Bluestar Alliance, LLC:

Founded by Joseph Gabbay and Ralph Gindi in 2006, Bluestar Alliance is a global brand management company that owns, manages, and markets a portfolio of premium fashion, lifestyle, and consumer brands. The portfolio spans a range of contemporary and luxury brands, with over $9 billion in global retail sales. Bluestar Alliance’s network of domestic and international partners offers the opportunity to take niche and established brands and grow them into worldwide lifestyle brands. The company manages a portfolio of over 400 licensees and a growing branded retail platform of over 500 stores throughout North America, Europe, Australia, South America, Asia, the United Arab Emirates, the Middle East, and India.

For more information, please contact:
Sarah Rosen
Bluestar Alliance
SRosen@Bluestarall.com

 

 

LBB Specialties Celebrates Grand Opening of New Distribution Center in Bristol, PA

NORWALK, Conn., Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LBB Specialties (LBBS), a leading North American distributor of specialty chemicals and ingredients, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 22, 2025, to mark the grand opening of its state-of-the-art distribution center in Bristol, Pennsylvania. Established to elevate LBB Specialties’ distribution capabilities for unmatched service, the 102,000-square-foot facility enables LBBS to not only meet but exceed the expectations of its partners.

This new center better positions LBB Specialties for future growth initiatives, such as entering new markets and diversifying product offerings for customers and partners. Designed with cutting-edge temperature control and storage technology, the facility allows LBBS to serve its partners and customers more effectively with environmentally friendly solutions. Additionally, the facility integrates multiple storage capabilities, including cold, cool, and hazardous materials storage. With its advanced capabilities and strategic design, the new center enables LBBS to combine shipments and manage storage needs more efficiently, ultimately enhancing service reliability.

“The grand opening of this distribution center represents a major milestone in our continued efforts to improve customer experience and operational capabilities,” said Nabil Alidina, SVP, Operations at LBB Specialties. “By consolidating our storage under one roof, we not only gain greater control over our supply chain but also increase our ability to meet customer demands more quickly and effectively.”

Reinforcing LBB Specialties’ commitment to maintaining the highest operational standards, the Bristol facility is DEA-certified and employs advanced technology for safety and compliance, including a cutting-edge foam suppression system in the hazardous materials storage area.

Thomas Van Valkenburgh, CEO of LBB Specialties, expressed his excitement about the new facility, stating, “This expansion is a direct reflection of our growth and commitment to providing exceptional service to our customers. The new distribution center strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality chemicals and ingredients across various industries, and we look forward to leveraging this facility as a key asset in supporting our customers’ and partners’ future success.”

For more information about LBB Specialties and its services, please visit our website: www.LBBSpecialties.com

About LBB Specialties
LBB Specialties is a leader in North American specialty chemicals and ingredients distribution. It serves end-markets including personal care, food & nutrition, industrial specialties, and life sciences. LBB Specialties is headquartered in Norwalk, CT. www.LBBSpecialties.com

Media Contact:
Ahmed Hanafy
media@lbbspecialties.com

Armor Launches Nexus – Delivering Unprecedented SOC Transparency and Proactive Defense

Nexus Powers the Shift from Reactive to Proactive MDR 

DALLAS, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Armor, a leading provider of cybersecurity and compliance solutions, today unveiled Nexus, a revolutionary platform designed to provide unprecedented transparency, proactive risk reduction, and intelligent support for large, complex organizations to ensure an adaptable, comprehensive, and unified cybersecurity strategy. With Nexus, Armor Defense reinforces its commitment of being the trusted security partner of choice for organizations worldwide.

Full SOC Transparency: Witness Security in Action

Nexus provides a window into the heart of the Armor Security Operations Center (SOC), allowing organizations to view every action taken to neutralize threats in real-time. The portal showcases SOC activities, including detailed threat hunt findings and tailored recommendations, giving customers full visibility into how Armor Defense is protecting their critical assets.

“Enterprises have been plagued with limited visibility into their MDR provider’s operations,” said Chris Drake, Founder and CEO of Armor Defense. “With Nexus, we’re not just mitigating threats, we’re enabling our clients to see exactly how we’re stopping them and arming them with the knowledge they need to stay one step ahead. The old expression Trust but Verify holds especially true with managing your risk partners and that’s now possible with Nexus.”

Proactive Cyber Risk Reduction: Defending Against Today’s Threats and Anticipating Tomorrow’s Risks

Armor MDR proactively adapts threat defenses based on real-time threat intelligence and evolving attack patterns to reduce an organization’s attack surface. With Nexus, organizations can visibly see the impact and effectiveness of these proactive strategies enabling them to “shift left” on the MITRE ATT&CK chain.

Supporting Complex Organizations: Seamless Segmentation with Centralized Intelligence

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by large, complex organizations, Nexus seamlessly supports the needs of organizations that operate globally, have multiple subsidiaries, or are composed of multiple departments. Through intelligent routing, Nexus allows for the desired segregation – ensuring that each group operates independently while ensuring the Armor SOC hunts and investigates threats across the entire environment as one unified entity. This holistic approach guarantees that no threat goes unaddressed, eliminating blind spots and ensuring comprehensive protection for the entire organization.

With Nexus, cybersecurity is no longer a reactive measure, but a proactive and adaptive strategy that grows with your organization.

Nexus is now available to all Armor MDR customers. For more information about Armor, Armor MDR and Nexus, visit the Armor MDR webpage or contact Armor sales.

ABOUT ARMOR
Armor is a global leader in cloud-native managed detection and response. As a trusted partner to over 1,500 firms in over 40 countries, Armor offers cybersecurity and compliance consulting, professional services, and managed services. Armor safeguards endpoint, network, server, and cloud environments against malicious threats seeking to infiltrate and disrupt businesses while providing unparalleled insight into security risks customers may face.

For more information, visit www.armor.com.

CONTACTS
Armor PR
Armor Corporate Communications
press@armor.com
877 262 3473

Nexus Dashboard
Nexus Dashboard

Timeless Love: QNET’s Bernhard H. Mayer Showcases Elegant Craftsmanship for Valentine’s Day

HONG KONG, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This Valentine’s Day, Bernhard H. Mayer, a luxury brand available exclusively through QNET, introduces the Alto Ceramic Watch and the Insignia Heart Jewelry Set, both exemplifying the brand’s commitment to timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Bernhard H. Mayer Insignia Heart Jewelry Set
Bernhard H. Mayer Insignia Heart Jewelry Set

The Alto Ceramic Watch, crafted in Switzerland, features a scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, stainless-steel case, and sapphire crystal glass. It operates on precision quartz movement with luminous hands for low-light readability and is water-resistant up to 50 meters—blending durability with refined aesthetics for everyday wear.

The global luxury watch market, valued at USD 42.21 billion in 2022, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% through 2030, driven by increasing demand for premium timepieces and evolving consumer preferences. Ceramic watches, known for their durability, lightweight design, and hypoallergenic properties, have become a standout choice. Their resistance to scratches and fading, along with advancements in ceramic technology, enhances their appeal among modern consumers.

The Insignia Heart Jewelry Set, featuring a pendant and matching earrings with heart-shaped motifs and gemstone accents, is crafted from high-quality materials for versatile wear, either as a set or individually.

“Valentine’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a time when people seek meaningful ways to express their emotions,” said Trevor Kuna, QNET’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Jewelry and timepieces, with their timeless appeal, become powerful symbols of heartfelt sentiments. The Alto Ceramic Watch, with its enduring craftsmanship and sleek design, represents the strength and resilience of lasting connections, while the Insignia Heart Jewelry Set captures the essence of love and emotional resonance. Together, they reflect the depth and beauty of relationships, making them meaningful choices to celebrate Valentine’s Day.”

The new collection is available exclusively through QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle company that uses a direct selling business model. QNET’s craftsmanship and attention to detail make Bernhard H. Mayer’s collections stand out in a crowded marketplace. The Alto Ceramic Watch represents enduring love with its high-quality materials and timeless design, while the Insignia Heart Set symbolizes deep emotional connections. This Valentine’s Day, gift more than just beauty—gift a symbol of commitment and elegance. Explore the collection at QNET’s official website at www.qnet.net and celebrate love with purpose.

ABOUT QNET

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle. 

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewelry, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly exemplifies high industry standards and is a member of numerous Direct Selling Associations worldwide. Its active engagement in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlights the company’s commitment to excellence.

Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net 

Bernhard H. Mayer Alto Ceramic Watch
Bernhard H. Mayer Alto Ceramic Watch

Timeless Love: QNET’s Bernhard H. Mayer Showcases Elegant Craftsmanship for Valentine’s Day

HONG KONG, Feb. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This Valentine’s Day, Bernhard H. Mayer, a luxury brand available exclusively through QNET, introduces the Alto Ceramic Watch and the Insignia Heart Jewelry Set, both exemplifying the brand’s commitment to timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Bernhard H. Mayer Insignia Heart Jewelry Set
Bernhard H. Mayer Insignia Heart Jewelry Set

The Alto Ceramic Watch, crafted in Switzerland, features a scratch-resistant ceramic bezel, stainless-steel case, and sapphire crystal glass. It operates on precision quartz movement with luminous hands for low-light readability and is water-resistant up to 50 meters—blending durability with refined aesthetics for everyday wear.

The global luxury watch market, valued at USD 42.21 billion in 2022, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% through 2030, driven by increasing demand for premium timepieces and evolving consumer preferences. Ceramic watches, known for their durability, lightweight design, and hypoallergenic properties, have become a standout choice. Their resistance to scratches and fading, along with advancements in ceramic technology, enhances their appeal among modern consumers.

The Insignia Heart Jewelry Set, featuring a pendant and matching earrings with heart-shaped motifs and gemstone accents, is crafted from high-quality materials for versatile wear, either as a set or individually.

“Valentine’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a time when people seek meaningful ways to express their emotions,” said Trevor Kuna, QNET’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Jewelry and timepieces, with their timeless appeal, become powerful symbols of heartfelt sentiments. The Alto Ceramic Watch, with its enduring craftsmanship and sleek design, represents the strength and resilience of lasting connections, while the Insignia Heart Jewelry Set captures the essence of love and emotional resonance. Together, they reflect the depth and beauty of relationships, making them meaningful choices to celebrate Valentine’s Day.”

The new collection is available exclusively through QNET, a global wellness and lifestyle company that uses a direct selling business model. QNET’s craftsmanship and attention to detail make Bernhard H. Mayer’s collections stand out in a crowded marketplace. The Alto Ceramic Watch represents enduring love with its high-quality materials and timeless design, while the Insignia Heart Set symbolizes deep emotional connections. This Valentine’s Day, gift more than just beauty—gift a symbol of commitment and elegance. Explore the collection at QNET’s official website at www.qnet.net and celebrate love with purpose.

ABOUT QNET

QNET, a global lifestyle and wellness company, uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle. 

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind. Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewelry, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly exemplifies high industry standards and is a member of numerous Direct Selling Associations worldwide. Its active engagement in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club (MCFC) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), highlights the company’s commitment to excellence.

Discover a world of new possibilities with QNET by visiting www.qnet.net 

Bernhard H. Mayer Alto Ceramic Watch
Bernhard H. Mayer Alto Ceramic Watch