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Neuronata-R® Stem Cell Therapy Shows Promise in ALS Phase 3 Subgroup Analysis, Moves Toward FDA Accelerated Approval

Meaningful efficacy observed in slow-progressor subgroup; NfL biomarker improvements support potential for accelerated regulatory pathway

SEOUL, South Korea, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Neuronata-R®, an autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has demonstrated meaningful efficacy signals in a subgroup of participants with slow disease progression in its recently completed Phase 3 trial. The therapy also showed consistent reductions in neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels — a biomarker that served as the basis for FDA accelerated approval in ALS, including the recent decision on Tofersen — supporting its potential to pursue a similar regulatory pathway.

Developed by South Korean biotech company CorestemChemon (KOSDAQ: 166480), Neuronata-R® utilizes MSCs derived from a participant’s own bone marrow to modulate inflammation, protect motor neurons, and alter the neurodegenerative microenvironment through paracrine signaling. ALS, a rare and fatal disease with no cure, remains one of the most urgent areas of unmet medical need. Neuronata-R® aims to address the disease’s complex pathology by leveraging the therapeutic potential of autologous MSCs.

In December 2024, CorestemChemon announced topline results from the ALSummit trial (NCT04745299), noting that the study did not meet its primary endpoint — a combined assessment of function and survival known as CAFS — in the overall patient population. However, a post hoc analysis conducted after the completion of the trial and full data collection revealed significant clinical improvements in a subgroup of patients with slower disease progression. To discuss these findings, the company plans to meet with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later this year to discuss these findings, with the aim of submitting a biologics license application by the end of 2025 and potentially securing accelerated approval by mid-2026.

Subgroup Analysis Supports Targeted Efficacy

The final Clinical Study Report (CSR) confirmed that Neuronata-R® demonstrated statistically significant improvements in key efficacy endpoints among participants with slow disease progression. Recognizing the potential efficacy of Neuronata-R® in early-stage ALS, CorestemChemon stratified participants into slow and fast progressors.

Among slow progressors, Neuronata-R® showed statistically significant improvements across multiple measures — including the primary composite endpoint, CAFS (Combined Assessment of Function and Survival), functional outcomes assessed by ALSFRS-R scores, and respiratory function measured by slow vital capacity (SVC).

Notably, the five-dose treatment arm (Group 2) demonstrated statistically significant improvement in ALSFRS-R scores beginning at Month 9 post-treatment — one month earlier than the two-dose arm (Group 1), which reached significance at Month 10.

This final CSR also included full analyses of CAFS and SVC, which had not been previously disclosed. While CAFS served as the trial’s primary efficacy endpoint, SVC is recognized as a clinically meaningful measure of respiratory decline in ALS.

At Month 6, participants in Group 1 receiving Neuronata-R® showed a statistically significant improvement in CAFS (LS Mean 20.95 vs 13.66; 95% CI; p<0.024) compared with placebo. Group 2 also showed improvement (LS Mean 24.78 vs 17.92; 95% CI; p<0.041). In Group 2, significant divergence in SVC compared to the control group emerged from Month 8 post-treatment, suggesting a potential effect in delaying disease progression.

NfL Biomarker Reduction Mirrors Regulatory Precedent

CorestemChemon also highlighted the reduction in NfL levels — a biomarker that served as the basis for FDA accelerated approval in ALS, including the recent decision on Tofersen. In both the two-dose (Group 1) and five-dose (Group 2) arms, NfL levels consistently declined over time. Notably, in Group 2, NfL levels were significantly lower than placebo at both Month 4 and Month 10, suggesting a potential dose-dependent effect.

The consistency between the company’s internal analysis and validation by an independent CRO strengthens the reliability of the dataset, which has been incorporated into the final CSR.


“This subgroup analysis lends strong support to a biomarker-driven approval strategy,” a company official said. “The consistency of our internal analysis with external CRO validation adds credibility to the dataset and provides a concrete basis for regulatory discussions with the MFDS.”

Regulatory Pathway Toward Accelerated Approval

The company views these findings as strategically significant, particularly in light of their alignment with the precedent set by Tofersen, where the FDA granted accelerated approval based on NfL reduction rather than survival benefit — a pathway CorestemChemon now seeks to pursue.

The company plans to request a Pre-BLA or Type C meeting with the FDA in Q3 2025, with the goal of submitting a biologics license application by Q4 2025 and targeting regulatory approval by mid-2026. CorestemChemon will finalize its submission package in collaboration with a global CRO and actively engage with regulatory agencies to pursue worldwide market entry for Neuronata-R®.

Innovative Stem Cell Therapy

Neuronata-R® uniquely addresses the complex mechanisms of ALS by leveraging MSCs derived from the patient’s own bone marrow. These cells exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, protect motor neurons, and, through paracrine signaling, secrete trophic factors, cytokines, and extracellular vesicles that modulate the microenvironment and reduce neuroinflammation. By targeting these underlying pathological processes, Neuronata-R® is designed to interrupt the neurodegenerative cascade.

About Neuronata-R®

Neuronata-R® (Lenzumestrocel), developed and commercialized by CorestemChemon Inc. (KOSDAQ: 166480), is an autologous MSC therapy for ALS patients. The company began ALS research in 2002 and obtained MFDS approval for Neuronata-R® in 2014. To date, it has been administered to more than 400 commercial patients and 190 clinical trial participants with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported.

Neuronata-R® holds Orphan Drug Designation from both the U.S. FDA (2018) and the EMA (2019). CorestemChemon completed a Phase 2 trial (NCT01363401) in 2014 and its Phase 3 trial (NCT04745299) in 2024; the final CSR has been submitted to the MFDS.

CODIT Launches ‘APEC 2025’ Policy Monitoring Platform

  • AI-Powered Legislative Insights: CODIT’s Global Evidence-Based Policy Institute strengthens policy research and strategy

SEOUL, South Korea, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CODIT, an AI-powered leading GovTech firm, has launched a policy monitoring platform developed to support the upcoming 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. The platform is intended to assist a wide range of stakeholders by delivering real-time updates on key policy issues in the lead-up to the October summit in Gyeongju, following the Second Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM2) held this May in Jeju.

CODIT’s ‘APEC 2025’ platform features a real-time policy dashboard that categorizes and visualizes major APEC-related developments. Powered by CODIT’s proprietary AI engine, the platform tracks and analyzes activity across APEC’s core agenda areas, including AI and digital cooperation, ESG, and trade and investment liberalization.

With this year’s APEC Summit expected to bring intensive multilateral dialogue amid a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment, access to timely and reliable policy insights is more important than ever. CODIT’s platform is designed to help summit participants, policy professionals, and media stay informed and strategically prepared.

“GovTech is no longer a future concept—it’s a present-day force transforming how we engage with policy. By harnessing AI to track and interpret complex developments in real time, we’re helping global stakeholders navigate the road to APEC 2025 with clarity, speed, and purpose.”

Ji Eun Chung, CEO of CODIT

As part of its summit-related efforts, CODIT will participate in Session 1: “Advancing Strategic Orientation for Successful AI Transformation within APEC” at the Public-Private Dialogue on AI Cooperation (Day 2), to be held on August 12 in Incheon, during the Third Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM3). The session will explore AI’s impact across industries and discuss policy directions for sustainable innovation. CODIT will share insights from its AI-powered legal and policy platform, including the new APEC 2025 monitoring service, and highlight the role of GovTech and startup-driven innovation in enabling effective public-private collaboration.

CODIT currently provides tailored legislation, regulation, and policy intelligence services to FORTUNE 500 companies, large enterprises, and unicorns. Since last year, the company has expanded into the U.S. market. Its Global Evidence-Based Policy Institute regularly hosts seminars featuring members of Korea’s National Assembly and government agencies, helping multinational clients anticipate regulatory shifts and adapt their strategies accordingly.

For media inquiries, please contact: contact@thecodit.com 

CODIT Launches 'APEC 2025' Policy Monitoring Platform
CODIT Launches ‘APEC 2025’ Policy Monitoring Platform

 

Yum China Announces US$510 Million Share Repurchase Agreements for Second Half of 2025 as Part of Broader Capital Return Plan

SHANGHAI, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the “Company” or “Yum China“) (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987) announced that it has entered into share repurchase agreements in the U.S. and Hong Kong for an aggregate repurchase amount of approximately US$510 million for the second half of 2025, commencing on July 1, 2025. This represents a 42% increase compared to the share repurchase agreements of US$360 million announced for the first half of 2025. Assuming a quarterly dividend of US$0.24 per share, the total capital return for 2025 will be at least US$1.2 billion.

Yum China is committed to maintaining a dual focus: investing in driving business growth and returning excess capital to shareholders. This approach is supported by our healthy cash position and strong cash generation capabilities. We remain on track to return US$3 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases from 2025 to 2026, in addition to the US$1.5 billion delivered in 2024. The average annual amount over the three years is equivalent to approximately 9% of our current market cap,” said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China.

The share repurchase agreements for the second half of 2025 include approximately US$410 million under the Rule 10b5-1 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934 in the U.S. and approximately HK$790 million for a similar program in Hong Kong. From 2017 to May 27, 2025, Yum China has returned US$4.8 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as “expect,” “expectation,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “belief,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “predict,” “project,” “likely,” “will,” “continue,” “should,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “commit” or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future strategies, growth, business plans, and dividend and share repurchase plans. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Our plan of capital returns to shareholders is based on current expectations, which may change based on market conditions, capital needs or otherwise. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions “Risk Factor” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company operates over 16,000 restaurants under six brands across over 2,300 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. In addition, Yum China has partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain, which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world’s most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit https://ir.yumchina.com/.

Contacts

Investor Relations Contact:
Tel: +86 21 2407 7556
IR@YumChina.com 

Media Contact:
Tel: +86 21 2407 8288 / +852 2267 5807
Media@YumChina.com

 

Iridium and Syniverse Partner to Bring Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity to Mobile Network Operators Worldwide

MCLEAN, Va., May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM), a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, today announced a new partnership with Syniverse, the world’s most connected company®, to support the rollout of Iridium NTN DirectSM service with mobile network operators (MNOs) worldwide. Through this partnership, Iridium NTN Direct is integrating with Syniverse’s global platform, making it easy for MNOs to keep their customers continuously connected everywhere on the planet.

Iridium Satellite Network
Iridium Satellite Network

According to GSMA’s 2025 Industry Survey, 85% of MNOs planning to pursue non-terrestrial network (NTN) service are seeking a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) solution that extends their coverage globally. As part of 3GPP Release 19, Iridium NTN Direct will provide truly global, standards-based direct-to-device (D2D) and narrow-band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) messaging and SOS for consumer devices, automobiles and industrial applications in agriculture, transportation, logistics, energy and utilities.

The combination of MNO requirements and Iridium NTN Direct capabilities makes it the ideal solution. With Iridium NTN Direct, MNOs will know they have a reliable partner with a fully deployed, owned and operated satellite constellation, unmatched coverage, globally coordinated mobile satellite services (MSS) spectrum, and a history of providing reliable safety of life services.

“We’re building the backbone of the global D2D movement, the right way and with the right partners as we prepare for on-air testing with MNOs and chipmakers in the coming months,” said Iridium CEO Matt Desch. “The integration of Syniverse’s system with the Iridium® network will give MNOs a simple path to expand their footprint to the entire planet.”

“Satellite networks are becoming a natural extension of the mobile ecosystem, and our role at Syniverse is to make that transition seamless,” said Andrew Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Syniverse. “By integrating Iridium NTN Direct into the global mobile framework using standards-based, carrier-grade systems, Syniverse is simplifying deployment, ensuring consistency and security, and accelerating access to non-terrestrial connectivity.”

For more than 35 years, Syniverse’s leadership in mobile interoperability and clearing services has played a key role in enabling MNO adoption for satellite integration, which includes seamless customer roaming, authentication and billing functions. Their system serves approximately 600 carrier customers directly in 170 countries worldwide and connects over 830 mobile operators with their global IPX backbone. Fully 3GPP-compliant and standards-based, Syniverse ensures fast deployment, helping operators confidently unlock new markets.

Iridium NTN Direct stands out among Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) and NB-IoT services by offering MNOs an unmatched combination of truly global coverage, reliability and capability. 3GPP Release 19 is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, and the first Iridium NTN Direct connected devices are planned to be available in 2026.

For more information about Iridium, visit: www.iridium.com 

For more information about Iridium NTN Direct, visit: www.iridium.com/ntn-direct/ 

About Iridium Communications Inc.

Iridium® is the only mobile voice and data satellite communications network that spans the entire globe. Iridium enables connections between people, organizations, and assets to and from anywhere, in real time. Together with its ecosystem of partner companies, Iridium delivers an innovative and rich portfolio of reliable solutions for markets that require truly global communications. In 2024, Iridium acquired Satelles and announced the Iridium Satellite Time and Location service. Iridium Communications Inc. is headquartered in McLean, Va., U.S.A., and its common stock trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol IRDM. For more information about Iridium products, services, and partner solutions, visit www.iridium.com.

Forward-Looking Statements Disclosure

Statements in this press release that are not purely historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company has based these statements on its current expectations and the information currently available to us. Forward-looking statements in this press release include statements regarding the capabilities, benefits and availability of the Iridium NTN Direct service. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the words “anticipates,” “may,” “can,” “believes,” “expects,” “projects,” “intends,” “likely,” “will,” “to be” and other expressions that are predictions or indicate future events, trends or prospects. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Iridium to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, uncertainties regarding the development and marketing of the Iridium NTN Direct service, the company’s ability to maintain the health, capacity and content of its satellite constellation, as well as general industry and economic conditions, and competitive, legal, governmental and technological factors. Other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements include those factors listed under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 13, 2025, as well as other filings Iridium makes with the SEC from time to time. There is no assurance that Iridium’s expectations will be realized. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if Iridium’s underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected, estimated or projected. Iridium’s forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and Iridium undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

Press Contact:

Investor Contact:

Jordan Hassin

Kenneth Levy

Iridium Communications Inc.

Iridium Communications Inc.

Jordan.Hassin@Iridium.com

Ken.Levy@Iridium.com

+1 (703) 287-7421

+1 (703) 287-7570

 

 

Canadian Solar Releases 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report

KITCHENER, ON, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Canadian Solar Inc. (the “Company” or “Canadian Solar”) (NASDAQ: CSIQ) today announced the release of its 2024 Sustainability Report. This report highlights the Company’s sustainability strategy and performance, including progress towards achieving its sustainability goals.

The sustainability disclosures in this report are aligned with global standards set by the SASB (the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board) and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), with reference to the IFRS (the International Financial Reporting Standards) set by the ISSB (International Sustainability Standards Board). The full report is available here

Highlights of the report include the following:

  • Notable progress in reducing the Company’s environmental footprint: In 2024, Canadian Solar lowered GHG emissions, energy, water, and waste intensities by 54%, 37%, 75%, and 53%, respectively, compared to 2017 levels. These achievements were driven by the enhanced production efficiency, implementation of robust energy and water conservation programs, as well as the increases in the power output of its solar modules. The Company also continues to align its operations with circular economy principles, increasing total recycled and reused waste to 94% in 2024 from 88% in 2023, while maintaining 100% recycling or reuse of packaging materials used during its production processes.
  • Ethical business conduct across the Company’s own operations and supply chain: To ensure alignment with global standards on labor practices, environmental, health and safety, and business ethics, Canadian Solar engages with the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) to conduct Validated Assessment Program (VAP) audits at its facilities. Building on the success of the 2023 audit of Canadian Solar’s Thailand module facility, where it achieved a Silver-level recognition, the Company earned another Silver-level recognition under the RBA VAP in 2025 for its solar cell factory in Suqian, Jiangsu Province, China. Beyond its own facilities, two of Canadian Solar’s polysilicon suppliers in Qinghai Province, China, initiated RBA VAP audits at the Company’s request.
  • Enhanced transparency and depth of disclosures: Canadian Solar has further enhanced the transparency and comprehensiveness of its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting by disclosing all relevant scope 3 categories in alignment with the GHG Protocol. The Company has set the environmental targets for its battery energy storage business for the first time. To align the Company’s sustainability strategy with stakeholder expectations, Canadian Solar’s subsidiaries CSI Solar and Recurrent Energy have each conducted an in-depth Double Materiality Analysis.
  • Further strengthened external recognitions: Canadian Solar has achieved elevated ratings from international third-party agencies. In 2025, the Company’s ISS ESG rating increased to B+, up from B in 2024. Additionally, its CDP climate change score advanced to B for the 2024 questionnaire, compared to C in 2023. Canadian Solar maintained its Silver rating with EcoVadis, while further enhancing its score to industry top 4% in 2025, up from top 5% in 2024.

Ms. Hanbing Zhang, Chief Sustainability Officer of Canadian Solar, commented, “We are delighted to announce the release of our 2024 Sustainability Report, which underscores our commitment to embedding sustainability across our operations and value chain. This year’s achievements, from reducing our environmental footprint to fostering a creative, engaged workforce and maintaining a responsible supply chain, demonstrate how sustainability is driving meaningful value for our business. As we look ahead, we remain unwavering in our pursuit of transparency, while working closely with our stakeholders for continuous improvement.”

Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar, added, “At Canadian Solar, we recognize that sustainable business practices are not merely a responsibility, but a strategic imperative for enduring success. I am proud of our team’s achievements as we advance toward our sustainability goals. Our mission is to power the world with solar energy and create a better and cleaner Earth for future generations. To realize this, we will continue to drive meaningful progress by embedding technological innovation, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical governance across our businesses and value chain.”

About Canadian Solar Inc.

Canadian Solar is one of the world’s largest solar technology and renewable energy companies. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Kitchener, Ontario, the Company is a leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic modules; provider of solar energy and battery energy storage solutions; and developer, owner, and operator of utility-scale solar power and battery energy storage projects. Over the past 24 years, Canadian Solar has successfully delivered nearly 157 GW of premium-quality, solar photovoltaic modules to customers across the world. Through its subsidiary e-STORAGE, Canadian Solar has shipped over 11 GWh of battery energy storage solutions to global markets as of March 31, 2025, boasting a $3.2 billion contracted backlog as of March 31, 2025. Since entering the project development business in 2010, Canadian Solar has developed, built, and connected approximately 11.6 GWp of solar power projects and 4.5 GWh of battery energy storage projects globally. Its geographically diversified project development pipeline includes 27 GWp of solar and 76 GWh of battery energy storage capacity in various stages of development. Canadian Solar is one of the most bankable companies in the solar and renewable energy industry, having been publicly listed on the NASDAQ since 2006. For additional information about the Company, follow Canadian Solar on LinkedIn or visit www.canadiansolar.com.

Safe Harbor/Forward-Looking Statements 

Certain statements in this press release, including those regarding the Company’s expected future shipment volumes, revenues, gross margins, and project sales are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These statements are made under the “Safe Harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by such terms as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “future”, “ongoing”, “continue”, “intend”, “plan”, “potential”, “prospect”, “guidance”, “believe”, “estimate”, “is/are likely to” or similar expressions, the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, our expectations regarding global electricity demand and the adoption of solar and battery energy storage technologies; our growth strategies, future business performance, and financial condition; our transition to a long-term owner and operator of clean energy assets and expansion of project pipelines; our ability to monetize project portfolios, manage supply chain fluctuations, and respond to economic factors such as inflation and interest rates; our outlook on government incentives, trade measures, regulatory developments, and geopolitical risks; our expectations for project timelines, costs, and returns; competitive dynamics in solar and storage markets; our ability to execute supply chain, manufacturing, and operational initiatives; access to capital, debt obligations, and covenant compliance; relationships with key suppliers and customers; technological advancement and product quality; and risks related to intellectual property, litigation, and compliance with environmental and sustainability regulations. Other risks were described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 20-F filed on April 30, 2025. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance, or achievements. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All information provided in this press release is as of today’s date, unless otherwise stated, and Canadian Solar undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

CANADIAN SOLAR INC. INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
Wina Huang
Investor Relations
Canadian Solar Inc.
investor@canadiansolar.com 

Altair Signs MoU with Georgia Institute of Technology to Spur Aerospace Innovation

Organizations will explore the use of simulation, AI, and data analytics for aviation, MRO, space, and robotics applications

TROY, Mich., May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Altair, a global leader in computational intelligence, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Georgia Institute of Technology to drive aerospace innovation. Within the agreement, Georgia Tech’s Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory will receive unlimited access to Altair resources to support advanced research and projects aligned to building technology demonstrators with simulation and DA software. Together, the two organizations will explore how simulation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) can reshape operations in aviation, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), space, and robotics applications.

Altair has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Georgia Institute of Technology to drive aerospace innovation.
Altair has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Georgia Institute of Technology to drive aerospace innovation.

“Altair’s simulation, data, and AI technology already has a game-changing impact on aerospace companies around the world – no matter if they’re a fledgling startup or an established powerhouse,” said Dr. Pietro Cervellera, senior vice president of aerospace and defense, Altair. “We are excited to collaborate with a top-tier university like Georgia Tech to develop even more impactful applications and further strengthen our ties with the global academic and scientific community.”

“Georgia Tech prides itself on being one of the nation’s premier institutions for aerospace engineering. This dedication to excellence is why our Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering was named the nation’s top publicly funded graduate aerospace engineering program,” said Dimitri Mavris, distinguished regents professor in the school and director of ASDL. “Working together with Altair gives us yet another way to harness transformational technology to help our faculty and students break boundaries within aerospace engineering.”

The two organizations will collaborate on projects where Georgia Tech professors, researchers, and doctoral students can use Altair technology to explore innovative ideas and develop breakthrough solutions. The MoU emphasizes collaboration on technology demonstrators that can be showcased to both the commercial and scientific communities, promoting knowledge sharing and enabling the deployment of new applications.

This MoU is yet another example of Altair’s dedication to working with leaders in the aerospace and defense ecosystem to push the limits of computational intelligence. Other industry collaborations – such as those with JetZero and the European Space Agency (ESA) – highlight how Altair works with organizations of all kinds to foster a holistic, interconnected network of innovation throughout the sector.

To learn more about Altair’s aerospace solutions, visit https://altair.com/aerospace. Additionally, Altair will be at the Paris Air Show at booth H155 in Hall 2B. For more information, visit https://web.altair.com/paris-airshow.

About Altair

Altair is a global leader in computational intelligence that provides software and cloud solutions in simulation, high-performance computing (HPC), data analytics, and AI. Altair is part of Siemens Digital Industries Software. To learn more, please visit www.altair.com or sw.siemens.com.

Media contacts

Altair Corporate         

Bridget Hagan         

+1.216.769.2658         

corp-newsroom@altair.com 

     

Altair Europe/The Middle East/Africa 

 Altair Asia-Pacific

Louise Wilce               

 Man Wang

+44 (0)7392 437 635

 86-21-5016635,,825

emea-newsroom@altair.com

apac-newsroom@altair.com

 

 

AI Meets Audit Powerhouse: Qualifyze Launches Quality Insights Platform to Help Global Pharma Manage Supplier Site Risk

FRANKFURT, Germany, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Qualifyze, already the global leader in third-party audit services for the pharmaceutical industry, announces the launch of Quality Insights Platform, an AI-powered platform that transforms the world’s largest pharmaceutical audit database into a strategic risk management tool.

 

Quality Insights Platform: Real-time site risk insights at your fingertips.
Quality Insights Platform: Real-time site risk insights at your fingertips.

 

Supply Chains on the Brink: Why Pharma Can’t Afford to Wait

Ensuring timely availability of medicines has become one of the toughest challenges in pharma today. While current tariffs on US imports have spared the pharma sector for now, ripple effects across the global economy are here to stay and are intensifying cost pressure. Furthermore, the tightening of regulatory frameworks, growing geopolitical tensions, and climate-related disruptions make the need for agile, proactive site risk management undeniable.

Quality, Regulatory, and Procurement teams are under immense pressure. Juggling supplier data from multiple sources, many still rely on manual processes. This reactive approach leads to costly quality incidents, regulatory setbacks, and reputational risk—not to mention the operational stress for all involved.

Introducing Quality Insights Platform: A Smarter Way to Manage Site Risk

Enter Quality Insights Platform: an AI-powered co-pilot for quality and procurement professionals. Built on Qualifyze proprietary data from over 4,500 audits, complemented by information from regulator bodies, the platform delivers actionable intelligence. It flags quality risks before they materialize and supports faster supplier qualification, thereby strengthening supply chain resilience.

“This is not just another AI tool. Quality Insights adds a layer of accuracy, since it is trained on our proprietary Pharma audits database, the largest worldwide,” said Dr. Schneider, CEO of Qualifyze. “With this solution, we deliver at least a 65% reduction in time and costs for new supplier qualification and proactive quality site risk management.”

Almirall was one of several companies involved in the development of Quality Insights Platform. “The platform is intuitive to navigate, with detailed and objective information. Having a common ground of easy to share data for sourcing discussions with Procurement is a real advantage,” said Miquel Romero, Quality Assurance Senior Director at Almirall.

Quality Insights Platform is available via a subscription model and requires no IT system setup. Learn more and request a demo at qualifyze.com.

About Qualifyze:

Founded in 2019, Qualifyze is the global leader in third-party audit services for the Life Sciences industry. With the world’s largest database of pharmaceutical audits, the company enables data-driven compliance, risk management, and supplier qualification. By turning quality data into strategic foresight, Qualifyze empowers pharma companies to build trust and resilience across their supply chains.

 

 

Reviving Hong Kong’s Ocean Heritage – Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs

From education to action: Public exhibition highlights the urgent need to restore Hong Kong’s oyster reefs

HONG KONG, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Oyster reefs — once thriving along Hong Kong’s coastlines – are now nearly lost. These remarkable ecosystems are vital for healthy oceans, thriving fisheries, coastal resilience, and are deeply rooted in local culture. Today, however, oyster reefs are among the most endangered marine habitats in the world and there is an urgent need to restore them.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is excited to launch its inaugural roving exhibition, “Reviving Hong Kong's Ocean Heritage: Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs”, debuting at Pacific Place from May 29 to June 11, 2025.
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is excited to launch its inaugural roving exhibition, “Reviving Hong Kong’s Ocean Heritage: Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs”, debuting at Pacific Place from May 29 to June 11, 2025.

Facing this urgent environmental challenge, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is excited to launch its inaugural roving exhibition, “Reviving Hong Kong’s Ocean Heritage: Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs”, debuting at Pacific Place from May 29 to June 11, 2025.

Through immersive and interactive displays, as well as virtual reality experiences, the exhibition explores the ecological, cultural, and historical importance of oyster reefs — and the inspiring local efforts underway to restore them.

By showcasing the importance of oyster reef conservation, the exhibition seeks to spark greater public awareness and support for enhanced protection of Hong Kong waters and endangered marine habitats. This is particularly timely as the Hong Kong government is currently updating its Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP) and asking for the public’s views on the HKSAR’s biodiversity protection policy.

A Marine Habitat in Crisis

Globally, an estimated 85% of oyster reefs have vanished due to coastal development, pollution, overharvesting, and climate change. In Hong Kong, only about 6% of Hong Kong’s marine waters are protected, far below the global target of 30%, leaving critical ecosystems such as oyster reefs vulnerable to further degradation.

Oysters are natural “ecosystem engineers”. At summer temperatures, a single adult local oyster can filter up to 960 liters of water a day even more for Hong Kong oyster (Magallana hongkongensis)! This improves water quality and supports diverse marine life. Their reefs provide shelter for a wide range of marine species and act as natural buffers against coastal erosion. This alarming decline threatens not only marine biodiversity, but the health and resilience of our entire ocean system.

“Oyster reefs are nature’s unsung heroes, they play a vital role in improving water quality, supporting marine biodiversity, and protecting our coastlines.” said Anthony Gao, Executive Director of TNC Hong Kong and Regional Partnerships. “Yet in Hong Kong, their ecological importance has largely been forgotten. This exhibition is a timely opportunity to raise public awareness and inspire action to restore these essential habitats. At TNC, we apply science-based restoration methods and actively engage local communities to safeguard marine ecosystems. Through education and outreach, we aim to build long-term stewardship and help preserve Hong Kong’s marine heritage for future generations.”

Immersive Learning Experience and Highlights

The exhibition offers an engaging, multisensory learning experience designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages. Through engaging visual displays, interactive installations, and captivating narratives, visitors can explore the ancient history of oysters farming in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta and the ecological importance of oyster reefs. Exhibition highlights include a full-scale traditional oyster farming model featuring oyster poles from Deep Bay, water filtration demonstration video, and a coastal resilience simulation showcasing how oyster reefs stabilize shorelines.  Visitors can also examine real specimens to learn about marine biodiversity, immerse themselves in a virtual reality journey to Deep Bay and Pak Nai, and play an augmented reality game to restore digital oyster habitats.

Additionally, alongside its conservation and community partners, TNC is submitting recommendations for the enhanced protection and management of the Coastal Protection Park (CPP), a new conservation area earmarked within the Northern Metropolis. We are advocating to make the CPP a world-class protected area that is well-managed, enhances biodiversity and restores thriving climate-resilient ecosystems, promotes equitable development and respects local communities, supports traditional livelihoods such as sustainable oyster farming, and connects people with nature through qualitative ecotourism.

Visitors can also watch the recently launched documentary City of Shells: Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs, which delves into the captivating story of shellfish reef ecosystems, retracing 1000+ years of history around oysters and their cultural significance for Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, and the journey of the scientists that are fighting to restore them. As a special bonus, participants will have a chance to receive a limited-edition “Oyster Babies” towel — available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

From Local Action to Global Impact

This local conservation effort is part of TNC’s broader mission to protect marine ecosystems around the world.

2025 also marks the 20th anniversary of TNC’s Reef Resilience Network — a global platform that has trained over 55,000 marine professionals in 92 countries and provides science-based tools to more than 1 million users annually. From Hong Kong’s oyster beds to coral reefs worldwide, TNC is committed to building a more resilient future for our oceans.

TNC extends sincere thanks to the partners who made this exhibition possible. Special appreciation goes to the Swire Group Charitable Trust for its generous support, to Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS)and the Explorer Club Hong Kong (ECHK) for their expertise and collaboration, and to venue sponsor Pacific Place for providing a welcoming space to engage with the public. Through these collective efforts, the exhibition aims to reconnect communities with Hong Kong’s marine heritage and inspire action to protect oyster reefs and the broader marine ecosystems.

Exhibition Details:
Dates: May 29 to June 11, 2025  
Time: 10.00 – 22.00
Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place (near Shiro)
Admission is free

About The Nature Conservancy Hong Kong (TNC)

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is the world’s leading international conservation non-profit organization dedicated to protecting natural places and preserving life on Earth for future generations since 1951.  TNC follows a science-based conservation approach to create innovative solutions to global conservation challenges and enable nature and people to thrive together.  We are currently addressing climate change at an unprecedented scale by protecting lands, waters, and oceans in sustainable ways, providing food and water resources, and helping cities become more sustainable.  Our projects span 81 countries and territories, using collaborative approaches with local communities, governments, private sector and others, to carry out various conservation projects and activities, including biodiversity conservation, forest conservation, marine conservation, climate change, and sustainable land use. TNC organizes various community projects and educational activities, aiming to promote public awareness and action towards environmental protection and sustainable development and to raise public awareness of natural environments and wildlife. TNC has been in Asia Pacific for almost 30 years with projects in Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Mongolia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. TNC was awarded the 2019 Lui Che Woo Prize – Prize for Sustainable Development. For more about TNC’s work, please visit: The Nature Conservancy (tnc.org.hk)

If you also care about environmental protection and wildlife conservation, please support TNC’s work, participate in our community projects and activities, and work together to protect the natural environment and wildlife, follow TNC Hong Kong’s social platforms for more environmental conservation information:
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