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Christmas Adventure Awaits: Ausom Ignites the Holidays with High-Performance E-Scooters

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the festive season brings both cheer and the familiar challenge of last-minute gifting and holiday traffic, Ausom presents the ultimate solution. From December 3 to December 31, 2025, Ausom brings premium electric scooters — blending excitement with practicality — directly to your doorstep in the U.S. with special holiday offers.

Ausom, a pioneer in redefining urban and trail exploration, crafts more than e-scooters: it builds keys to unparalleled freedom. Engineered for riders who see journeys differently, its vehicles fuse precision craftsmanship with unstoppable power and rugged, all-terrain durability to elevate every ride.

Ausom L1: Urban Commute King

Perfect for daily commutes and weekend excursions, the L1 balances power and practicality. Its robust 800W motor reaches 28 mph, tackling hills with ease, while the 748.8Wh battery provides a 44-mile range. The adjustable handlebar allows customized comfort and control, accommodating riders of various heights. With 10-inch tubeless tires, front & rear disc brakes with E-ABS, and advanced swingarm suspension, it masters city streets and light trails.

Ausom Electric Scooter
Ausom Electric Scooter

Ausom L2 Max Dual Motor: All-Terrain Beast

Built to conquer, the L2 Max Dual Motor redefines off-road riding. Experience SUV-level comfort from its dual swingarm suspension with an aircraft landing gear system. Its powerful dual motors (2688W peak power) make hill climbing effortless, supported by a 56-mile range from a high-capacity 998.4Wh battery. Rugged 10″x3″ tubeless knobby tires and a forged aluminum alloy frame (287 lbs load capacity) ensure stability on any path.

Ausom DT2 Pro: Performance Champion

For peak performance enthusiasts, the DT2 Pro stands alone. Advanced hydraulic disc brakes with E-ABS deliver unmatched control at high speeds and shorter braking distances. Reach 42 mph and conquer 53% inclines with 2912W max power. The 1216.8Wh battery offers an industry-leading 71-mile range.

Ausom Innovations for a Superior Ride:

  • Advanced Suspension System: Inspired by aircraft landing gear, Ausom’s unique suspension consisting of swingarms and springs absorbs bumps effortlessly for smooth, stable rides.
  • All-Around Lighting: Integrated headlights, taillight, and turn signals ensure 360° visibility. Ambient lights (L2 Max Dual Motor and DT2 Pro) add style to your riding.
  • Swift Charging: Dual charging ports (L2 Max Dual Motor & DT2 Pro) significantly reduce charging time and provide more freedom for exploration.
  • Advanced Anti-theft Design: NFC/passcode locks and a hidden AirTag slot (L2 Max Dual Motor and DT2 Pro) prevent unauthorized access, offering peace of mind.
  • Unrivaled Stability: The durable aluminum alloy frame (L2 Max Dual Motor & DT2 Pro) and the double-folding mechanism minimize wobbling for a stable ride.
  • Wider Deck: Provides superior stability and a more confident and cozy stance than conventional scooters.

Pricing and Exclusive Offers

From December 3 to December 31, 2025, visit Ausomstore.com to unlock exceptional value on the ultimate adventure gifts in the U.S.:

  • L1: $599
  • L2 Max Dual Motor: $799
  • DT2 Pro: $1099

Stack Your Savings with Exclusive Discount Codes:

  • Spend $500, get $50 off! (Code: BF50)
  • Spend $1000, get $80 off! (Code: BF80)
  • Spend $1500, get $100 off! (Code: BF100)
  • Spend $2000, get $200 off! (Code: BF200)

Special Giveaway:

A FREE Handlebar Bag comes with every order – convenient storage of your belongings!

Ready to Ride? Explore Your Perfect Match

About Ausom

Founded by adventurers and experts, Ausom is dedicated to igniting the spirit of exploration in everyone. We design and build premium electric scooters that empower riders to break boundaries, redefine their commute, and embrace the thrill of the ride. Every Ausom product reflects our commitment to excellence and innovation, delivering unforgettable experiences on two wheels.

Website: ausomstore.com
EU Website: ausomstore.eu

AAR and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance complete formation of xCelle Asia joint venture

WOOD DALE, Ill. and PARIS and AMSTELVEEN, Netherlands and CHONBURI, Thailand, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), a leading provider of aviation services to commercial and government operators, MROs, and OEMs, and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), a multi-product airline MRO, announced today the completion of the formation of xCelle Asia, which included the receipt of regulatory approval. This previously announced joint venture, located in Chonburi, Thailand, will overhaul nacelles for new generation aircraft.


Building on the success of AAR and AFI KLM E&M’s existing joint venture in the Americas, xCelle Asia will provide unparalleled service and support for operators in the APAC region. Licensed by multiple OEMs, xCelle Asia can perform nacelle maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, including on-wing / on-site inspections, and rotable support for next generation aircraft nacelles, including GEnx, Trent1000, LEAP-1A/1B engine types. Other new generation aircraft and engine types will follow.

“This joint venture markedly expands our service offerings in the Asia-Pacific region and furthers our ability to deliver high quality, industry leading solutions to our customers,” said Jim Berberet, Senior Vice President of Component Services at AAR. “We are looking forward to replicating our current success in the Americas by combining the experience of AAR’s highly regarded Component Services team in Thailand with AFI KLM E&M’s global network.” 

“The creation of xCelle Asia represents a major step forward in strengthening our global MRO network. By expanding our nacelle capabilities into the Asia-Pacific region, we are positioning ourselves to deliver world-class, next-generation support closer to our customers. This new venture reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, and we are proud to bring our expertise to one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets,” stated Benjamin Moreau, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at AFI KLM E&M. 

About xCelle Asia
xCelle Asia is a joint venture established by AAR and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance to service next generation aircraft nacelles. An FAA/EASA certified repair station, xCelle Asia combines the expertise of an airline and a third-party MRO to maintain, repair, and overhaul components for commercial operators across the APAC region. Additional information is available at https://www.aarcorp.com/en/services/component-services and www.afiklmem.com.

About AAR
AAR is a global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago area, AAR supports commercial and government customers through four operating segments: Parts Supply, Repair & Engineering, Integrated Solutions, and Expeditionary Services. Additional information can be found at aarcorp.com.

About AFI KLM E&M
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance is a major multi-product MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) provider. With a workforce of over 12,800, AFI KLM E&M offers comprehensive technical support for airlines, ranging from engineering and line maintenance to engine overhaul, aero structure, and fan thrust reverser support, as well as the management, repair, and supply of aircraft components, structured around a powerful logistics network. AFI KLM E&M supports almost 3,000 aircraft operated by 200 major international and domestic airlines. www.afiklmem.com

This press release may contain certain statements relating to future results, which are forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, reflecting management’s expectations about future conditions, including anticipated activities, benefits and opportunities related to the joint venture. Forward-looking statements may also be identified because they contain words such as ”anticipate,” ”believe,” ”continue,” ”could,” ”estimate,” ”expect,” ”intend,” ”likely,” ”may,” ”might,” ”plan,” ”potential,” ”predict,” ”project,” ”seek,” ”should,” ”target,” ”will,” ”would,” or similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These forward-looking statements are based on beliefs of management, as well as assumptions and estimates based on information currently available to management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to “Risk Factors” in AAR CORP.’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize adversely, or should underlying assumptions or estimates prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described. These events and uncertainties are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many are beyond management’s control. Management assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

Contact:
Media Team
+1-630-227-5100
Editor@aarcorp.com

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/aar_and_afi_klm_logo_v1.jpg 
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xcelle_asia_logo.jpg

 

SPARE CAPACITY PERSISTS GLOBALLY, WHILE NORTH AMERICA REPORTS A STEEPER PULLBACK IN MANUFACTURING DEMAND, SIGNALLING WEAK CONDITIONS HEADING INTO 2026: GEP GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN VOLATILITY INDEX

  • North America posts the steepest decline in input demand by region, signaling softening activity heading into 2026
  • Europe and the UK remain subdued amid weak manufacturing pipelines
  • Asia sees another month of low demand as Chinese factory purchasing continues to slow
  • With ample spare capacity worldwide, companies face little price pressure outside of tariffs

CLARK, N.J., Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index, a leading economic indicator based on a monthly survey of 27,000 businesses, shows that global supply chains remained underutilized in November, with manufacturers continuing to limit purchasing, signaling a weakening outlook for the start of 2026.

Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are.
Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are.

The headline index came in at –0.29, signaling another month of slack capacity across global suppliers. The sharpest pullback occurred in North America, where the regional index fell, driven by a contraction in input demand as manufacturers cut orders ahead of the new year.

Asia continued to report underutilized supply chains, as firms held back on purchasing, driven largely by a further pullback in Chinese factory buying amid soft global demand. However, there were pockets of strength across the region, particularly among the ASEAN nations.

Across Europe and the UK, spare capacity ticked higher as demand fragility persisted. Factories in Germany and France once again displayed a reticence to expand purchasing, instead opting to make more aggressive cutbacks.

With excess capacity firmly in place globally, the data suggest companies will face limited purchasing cost pressures in the months ahead, excluding tariff-related effects. Shortages remain minimal, stockpiling activity low, and manufacturing backlogs largely flat, highlighting a supply landscape still characterized by slack rather than strain.

“Companies are watching the U.S. Supreme Court closely, and most expect a pause or rollback in tariffs,” said John Piatek, Vice President, Consulting, GEP. “With supply chains this slack, it remains a buyers’ market heading into 2026, and companies have real leverage to secure favorable terms for the year ahead.”

NOVEMBER 2025 REGIONAL KEY FINDINGS

  • ASIA: Index rose to -0.16, from -0.30, signaling less spare capacity than in October across Asia’s supply chains. While China remained a drag, ASEAN countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam were resilient.

  • NORTH AMERICA: Index fell to -0.53, from -0.45, indicating the highest degree of underutilized supplier capacity since March. The data point to a weakening near-term outlook for North American manufacturing.

  • EUROPE: Index dips to -0.33, from -0.25, highlighting ongoing fragility across Europe’s industrial economy.

  • U.K.: Index rises sharply to -0.20, from -0.80, its highest level in a year, hinting at a stabilising of the country’s manufacturing downturn

NOVEMBER 2025 KEY FINDINGS

  • DEMAND: Global factories’ purchases of commodities, intermediate goods and other components necessary for production slowed again in November. The slump reflected a pullback in factory buying across China, demand-side manufacturing weakness in the US and a persistent drag from major European industrial economies such as Germany.
  • INVENTORIES: Reports from global procurement managers of an increase in stockpiling due to price or supply fears remain historically low, indicating limited concern about purchasing price inflation or shortages. The data continue to demonstrate a preference among manufacturers for lean warehouses.
  • MATERIAL SHORTAGES: The global item shortages tracker remains well below its long-term trend level, signaling healthy supply levels for the world’s manufacturers. Factories will have little, if any, challenges in sourcing vendors for commodities, components and other intermediate products.
  • LABOR SHORTAGES: The labor shortages tracker remained only marginally above its long-term trend during November, indicating negligible pressures on production capacity due to a lack of workers.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Global transportation costs ticked higher in November but recorded broadly in line with their historical average.

For more information, visit www.gep.com/volatility.

Note: Full historical data dating back to January 2005 is available for subscription. Please contact economics@spglobal.com.

The next release of the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index will be 8 a.m. ET, Jan. 13, 2026.

About the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index

The GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index is produced by S&P Global and GEP. It is derived from S&P Global’s PMI® surveys, sent to companies in over 40 countries, totaling around 27,000 companies. The headline figure is a weighted sum of six sub-indices derived from PMI data, PMI Comments Trackers and PMI Commodity Price & Supply Indicators compiled by S&P Global.

  • A value above 0 indicates that supply chain capacity is being stretched and supply chain volatility is increasing. The further above 0, the greater the extent to which capacity is being stretched.
  • A value below 0 indicates that supply chain capacity is being underutilized, reducing supply chain volatility. The further below 0, the greater the extent to which capacity is being underutilized.

A Supply Chain Volatility Index is also published at a regional level for Europe, Asia, North America and the U.K. For more information about the methodology, click here.

About GEP

GEP® delivers AI-powered procurement and supply chain solutions that help global enterprises become more agile and resilient, operate more efficiently and effectively, gain competitive advantage, boost profitability and increase shareholder value. Fresh thinking, innovative products, unrivaled domain expertise, smart, passionate people — this is how GEP SOFTWARE™, GEP STRATEGY™ and GEP MANAGED SERVICES™ together deliver procurement and supply chain solutions of unprecedented scale, power and effectiveness. Our customers are the world’s best companies, including more than 1,000 Fortune 500 and Global 2000 industry leaders who rely on GEP to meet ambitious strategic, financial and operational goals. A leader in multiple Gartner Magic Quadrants, GEP’s cloud-native software and digital business platforms consistently win awards and recognition from industry analysts, research firms and media outlets, including Gartner, Forrester, IDC, ISG, and Spend Matters. GEP is also regularly ranked a top procurement and supply chain consulting and strategy firm, and a leading managed services provider by ALM, Everest Group, NelsonHall, IDC, ISG and HFS, among others. Headquartered in Clark, New Jersey, GEP has offices and operations centers across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. To learn more, visit www.gep.com.

About S&P Global

S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) S&P Global provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses and individuals with the right data, expertise and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today.

Media Contacts

Derek Creevey
Director, Public Relations
GEP
Phone: +1 646-276-4579
Email: derek.creevey@gep.com

Joe Hayes
Principal Economist
S&P Global Market Intelligence
Phone: +44-1344-328-099
Email: joe.hayes@spglobal.com

Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are.
Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are.

 

GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index Nov 2025
GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index Nov 2025

 

Singapore SME Summit 2025 Drives the Theme “From Local Strength to Global Impact” as Singapore Enterprises Chart Their Next Chapter of Growth

SINGAPORE, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC) successfully concluded the Singapore SMESummit 2025 (“SME Summit”), Singapore’s annual pinnacle event for enterprises and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Held at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre on 03 December 2025, this year’s summit convened more than 1,000 local and foreign business owners, founders, innovators, and ecosystem partners, reaffirming Singapore’s commitment to strengthening its enterprise sector and supporting businesses in scaling beyond domestic borders.

SMESummit 2025 Organising Committee with GOH Mr Zhulkarnian Abdul Rahim
SMESummit 2025 Organising Committee with GOH Mr Zhulkarnian Abdul Rahim

Graced and officially opened by Guest of Honour, Mr Zhulkarnian Abdul Rahim, the SME Summit centred on the theme “From Local Strength to Global Impact.”

In his opening address, Mr Zhulkarnian highlighted the importance of building strong business fundamentals, deepening enterprise capabilities, and accelerating innovation so that Singapore SMEs remain resilient and competitive in a rapidly globalising economy. He encouraged businesses to seize opportunities abroad while staying rooted in strong local values, industry collaboration, and community support. 

A National Platform Advancing Enterprise Capability, Innovation, and Internationalisation

The SME Summit featured a full day of high-level discussions, keynote presentations, fireside chats, and thematic sessions designed to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing Singapore enterprises.

The full day summit’s agenda covered key business topics and placed strong emphasis on:

1. Enterprise Capability Development

Sessions focused on practical frameworks for strengthening internal processes, financial resilience, leadership development, and future-ready talent strategies. Speakers emphasised that long-term competitiveness begins with strong core capabilities at home.

2. Digital Transformation & Innovation

Industry experts showcased the importance of cybersecurity adoption and implementation with SMEs and how advancements in digital tools, automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence can boost operational efficiency and unlock new business models. Real-world case studies illustrated how SMEs can adopt scalable technologies without heavy upfront cost.

SMESummit Exhibiting Section (In Picture: CardUp Pte Ltd)
SMESummit Exhibiting Section (In Picture: CardUp Pte Ltd)

3. Global Expansion & Cross-Border Opportunities

The SME Summit brought regional and global market experts together to discuss emerging opportunities in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. Several sessions explored international market entry strategies, global branding, cross-border partnerships, and the pivotal role of intellectual property in supporting overseas expansion.

4. Strengthening the Singapore Enterprise Brand

Fireside Chat and Panel Discussion at the SMESummit 2025. Panelist from Left to Right - Mr Dixon Soh (CHP Law LLC), Ms Shenaz Bilkis (SAP Asia), Mr Hong Qibin (Council Member, ATC), Mr Mike Krishnan (SMECentre@SICCI), Mr Tony Lugg (Project Argus Pte Ltd)
Fireside Chat and Panel Discussion at the SMESummit 2025. Panelist from Left to Right – Mr Dixon Soh (CHP Law LLC), Ms Shenaz Bilkis (SAP Asia), Mr Hong Qibin (Council Member, ATC), Mr Mike Krishnan (SMECentre@SICCI), Mr Tony Lugg (Project Argus Pte Ltd)

Panel discussions highlighted how the Singapore brand known for trust, reliability, and quality continues to give local enterprises an edge globally. Speakers shared how businesses can position themselves to ride on Singapore’s reputation while differentiating their value proposition internationally.

One of the key highlights of the SME Summit was the fireside chat, titled “Scaling Beyond Singapore – SMEs for Global Expansion”.

The fireside chat brought together business leaders and industry experts who shared insights on navigating new markets, building cross-border partnerships, leveraging digital tools and protecting intellectual property in global expansion efforts. The discussion emphasised the importance of capability building, innovation and strategic readiness as SMEs take bold steps toward internationalisation.

5. Recognising Committed Singapore SMEs for Business Excellence under the Singapore SME 500 Award

The SME Summit also provided a platform to acknowledge the commitment and perseverance of Singapore’s SMEs that continue to uphold high standards of business excellence, capabilities and forward momentum.

As part of the SME Summit’s agenda, outstanding and high performing local SMEs were recognised under the Singapore SME 500 Award (https://sme500.atc.sg) – one of Singapore’s long running and highly regarded business award that celebrates enterprises strong business fundamentals, consistent fiscal performance, commitment to business excellence and the capability to scale.

Singapore SME 500 Award 2025 - Consecutive 4 Years Award Winners
Singapore SME 500 Award 2025 – Consecutive 4 Years Award Winners

These enterprises represent the resilience, adaptability and leadership that defines Singapore’s enterprise community. Their achievements served as a testament to the importance of continues capability development and innovation, reinforcing the critical role SMEs play in driving economic growth and elevating the standards of the enterprise community.

The Singapore SME 500 Award also underscored ATC’s commitment to honouring committed enterprises that embody the spirit of progress and business excellence, and are well positioned to scale further in the years ahead.

Showcasing Industry Solutions, Support for SMEs and Strengthening Partnerships

Alongside the conference programme, a dedicated exhibition segment brought together solutions providers, innovators, supporting agencies for local SMEs and ecosystem partners who showcased practical tools and resources that are designed to support SMEs in all stages their business development journey.

Exhibiting Section of the SMESummit 2025
Exhibiting Section of the SMESummit 2025

These included digital transformation solutions, cyber security providers, financial services, productivity solutions and foreign partners of ATC whom are ready to support Singapore SMEs’ expansion across the border.

ATC expressed appreciation to all supporting partners, noting that strong and multi-stakeholder collaboration is essential to developing an enterprise ecosystem that is resilient, future ready and globally competitive. The SME Summit served as a meaningful platform for partners to meet business owners, exchange insights and explore new collaborations.

Growing Regional Recognition and Influence

Since the inaugural launch of the SME Summit, the summit has grown into a prominent regional platform for Singapore SMEs to congregate, network and collaborate.

Bringing Singapore SMEs and business leaders together from more than 15 industries and trade sectors, the SME Summit attracts increasing interest from ASEAN and Asia-Pacific markets. This year’s turnout reflects the strong momentum and determination within Singapore’s SME sector to elevate capability and pursue new frontiers of growth.

Conference Section of the SMESummit 2025
Conference Section of the SMESummit 2025

ATC also noted that with shifting global economic dynamics, supply chain realignment and rising digital adoption with the use of AI, the next decade presents one of the most significant windows of opportunities for Singapore’s businesses to expand globally.

“The SMESummit 2025 underscores the readiness of Singapore enterprises to embrace innovation, scale their operations, and take their brands global.

This year’s theme – ‘From Local Strength to Global Impact’ represents a clear ambition: to nurture strong business foundations locally while equipping SMEs with the capability, confidence and connectivity to grow internationally.

We extend our deepest appreciation to our Guest of Honour, partners, speakers and delegates for making this year’s Summit a powerful and forward-looking platform for our enterprise community.”

Dato Seri Ashraf Bakar, Council Member,
Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC)

About the Singapore SMESummit

The SMESummit, organised by the Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC), is an annual highly anticipated business event that brings together local Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs), innovators, entrepreneurs, industry experts and thought leaders to explore the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of our local SMEs.

ATC and partners of the SMESummit brings a wealth of experience and expertise, and with a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities that SMEs face, the SMESummit agenda provides attendees with relevant insights, cutting-edge strategies, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

The SMESummit plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses, facilitating knowledge exchange, and ultimately contributing to the overall advancement of Singapore’s SME sector.

For more information on the Singapore SMESummit, please visit https://smesummit.sg.

About the Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC)

The Association of Trade and Commerce (ATC) is a business association dedicated to advocating and representing the interests of Singapore’s enterprises across diverse industries and trade sectors.

As an enterprise-centric and community-based organisation, ATC actively advocates for the growth and development of businesses, focusing on key pillars such as capability building, transformation, globalisation, and community engagement.

ATC is committed to fostering a pro-enterprise trade environment in Singapore. We engage closely with the business community, as well as private and public sector partners, to design and implement relevant programmes that supports enterprises to innovate, transform, and expand internationally.

As a trusted advocate, strategic partner, and dynamic network, ATC plays a pivotal role in enabling enterprises to thrive in an evolving economic landscape.

For more information on ATC, please visit https://atc.sg.

 

 

J.S. Held and Experts Recognized as Industry Leaders in 2025

JERICHO, N.Y., Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global consulting firm J.S. Held proudly commemorates numerous industry and expert recognitions. Across J.S. Held, a curated collection of financial, technical, and scientific experts — entrepreneurs with an unrivaled understanding of both tangible and intangible assets — have been recognized by leading industry publications for expertise in the following categories, including:

  • Arbitration Expert Witnesses, Thought Leaders, and Future Leaders
  • Asset Recovery Experts
  • Asset-based Finance (ABF) Leaders & Legends
  • Commercial Litigation Expert Witnesses, Thought Leaders
  • Construction and Engineering – Litigation Support
  • Construction Expert Witnesses, Thought Leaders, and Future Leaders
  • Construction Quantum Delay & Technical Thought Leaders and Future Leaders
  • Crisis & Risk Management – ESG
  • Crisis & Risk Management – Investigative Due Diligence
  • Crisis & Risk Management – Political Risk
  • Data Experts
  • ENR Top 200 Environmental Consulting Firm
  • Enterprise Risk Management Consulting
  • Financial Advisory and Valuation – Quantum of Damages
  • Forensic Accountants
  • Forensics & Complex Investigations – Compliance
  • Forensics & Complex Investigations – Litigation Support
  • Global Women to Watch – Accounting
  • IAM Patent 1000 – World’s Leading Patent Professionals
  • IAM Strategy 300 – World’s Leading Intellectual Property (IP) Strategists
  • Intellectual Property Thought Leaders
  • Investigations – Forensic Accountants
  • Leadership Development
  • Litigation Support – Asset Tracing & Recovery
  • Litigation Support – Business Intelligence & Investigations
  • Litigation Support – Forensic Accounting
  • Outstanding Turnaround Firm
  • Transport Experts, Thought Leaders

J.S. Held Expertise Recognized by Global News Outlets, Ratings Agencies, and Research Firms

The company and expert recognition by notable organizations, such as Asset-based Finance (ABF) Journal, Chambers and Partners, Consultancy, IAM, Leader’s League, Lexology Index, and Verdantix, serves as a further testament to J.S. Held’s solution-forward consulting and advisory to clients across the globe, no matter the scope or complexity of a project.

Learn more about J.S. Held’s areas of expertise, visit:  https://www.jsheld.com/areas-of-expertise.

J.S. Held Applies Financial, Technical, and Scientific Rigor Across Client Engagements

J.S. Held’s expertise is built upon five decades of experience in the most rigorous venues – state, federal, and international courts and tribunals – spanning more than 150 different industry segments. The depth and breadth of the firm’s work in the insurance market provides a strong foundation in risk assessment, data analysis, global awareness, regulatory compliance, technological adaptability, and risk mitigation. Collectively, these skills better equip J.S. Held experts to address high-stakes disputes/litigation and assess business risk across diverse markets, geographies, geopolitical landscapes, compliance frameworks, and digital advancements. “In a world where uncertainty is the only constant, there is a need for something solid you can hold onto,” observes J.S. Held Chief Executive Officer Lee Spirer. “Our name is our promise,” he adds. “Our role as a trusted advisor is emblematic of this promise, even in the face of the most daunting risks, clients have the expertise and guidance to act with confidence.”

Celebrating the Team of Experts

Expert recognition by notable organizations serves as a further testament to J.S. Held’s agile, collaborative, creative, and client-centric team, reflecting the trusted advisor role the firm has earned over the last 50 years.

Chief Executive Officer at J.S. Held, Lee Spirer, adds, “I am so proud of our team. These recognitions presented by leading outlets reflect input by clients and colleagues across multiple industries, underscoring our commitment to delivering expertise and innovative solutions in the complex world. It reflects not just the individual excellence of our experts, but our collective dedication to transforming the industries in which we work through precise analysis, reliable insights, and unwavering integrity.”

To explore the expertise recognized by these awards, visit: https://www.jsheld.com/about-us/news/j-s-held-and-experts-recognized-as-industry-leaders-in-2025

About J.S. Held

J.S. Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic expertise to advise clients seeking to realize value and mitigate risk. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high stakes matters demanding urgent attention, staunch integrity, proven experience, clear-cut analysis, and an understanding of both tangible and intangible assets. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, products, and data that enable clients to navigate complex, contentious, and often catastrophic situations.

More than 1,500 professionals serve organizations across six continents, including 84% of the Global 200 Law Firms, 75% of the Forbes Top 20 Insurance Companies (90% of the NAIC Top 50 Property & Casualty Insurers), and 71% of Fortune 100 Companies.

J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not certified public accounting firm(s) and do not provide audit, attest, or any other public accounting services. J.S. Held is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.  Securities offered through PM Securities, LLC, d/b/a Phoenix IB or Ocean Tomo Investments, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/SIPC.  All rights reserved.

Media Contact

Kristi L. Stathis, J.S. Held, +1 786 833 4864, Kristi.Stathis@JSHeld.com, JSHeld.com

Indivumed and University of Rochester Medical Center expand collaboration for patient-centric discovery of novel therapeutics

Two leading entities in cancer research pledge scientific collaboration to advance precision oncology.

HAMBURG, Germany and ROCHESTER, N.Y., Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Indivumed is excited to announce its partnership with the world-renowned Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). Leveraging Indivumed’s proven approach to standardized tissue and clinical data collection for patient-centric cancer R&D, this collaboration aims to accelerate the development of novel cancer therapeutics for patients with high medical need.

An integral resource for patient-centric cancer R&D

Indivumed’s innovative platform builds on carefully collected and curated surgical tissue samples and comprehensive clinical data to drive patient-centric cancer research and drug development. URMC’s invaluable role includes the collection and processing of high-quality biosamples and clinical patient data, adhering to Indivumed’s rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs). A key advantage is minimizing ischemia time to under ten minutes, ensuring sample integrity and quality.

Priority of the joint research efforts is the creation of well-characterized, patient-derived tumor models (PDTMs) from the very same samples. These cell models, including classical cell cultures, spheroids, and organoids, combined with data insights subsequently serve to advance and de-risk the process of identification, validation, ligand screening, and development of pharmaceutical molecular cancer targets.

Hartmut “Hucky” Land, PhD, Deputy Director of the Wilmot Cancer Institute, is looking forward to the collaboration: “We have worked with Indivumed successfully in the past and our familiarity with their tissue and multi-omics data approach will provide an excellent foundation. The new project will create greater opportunities to identify new therapeutics and biomarkers, uncover insights on the right target-patient match for clinical decision-making, and thus help advance cancer care.”

Focusing on advanced stages of specific entities

The collaboration initially focuses on advanced stages of solid cancers with a high medical need, such as colorectal (CRC), pancreatic (PDAC), lung, and breast cancer, with the potential to expand to other cancer types in the future. Insights gained through this partnership will advance Indivumed’s ongoing research initiatives and asset development, while offering participating clinicians valuable guidance to inform therapeutic decision-making.

“We are thrilled to deepen our collaboration with URMC, significantly enhancing our ability to identify novel cancer therapeutics in a truly patient-centered approach,” says Hartmut Juhl, CEO and founder of Indivumed. “We will develop primary tumor models for the testing of novel compounds against targets which have been identified by our unique AI-powered data analytical capabilities to bring novel therapeutics to patients as fast and precisely as possible.”

With this agreement, the University of Rochester Medical Center joins the Indivumed Global Clinical Network, which already includes a sizeable number of renowned hospitals and leading oncology institutes in North America, Europe and Asia. The collaboration builds on the success of previous collaborations with joint research efforts between the two parties, including a recent publication on the discovery of an alternative way to classify distinct types of colon cancer.

About Wilmot Cancer Institute

University of Rochester’s Wilmot Cancer Institute is an NCI-Designated Cancer Center located in Rochester, New York, USA. It serves a population of more than three million people across 27 counties in Western and Central New York and is the region’s leader for cancer care and research. As a component of Strong Memorial Hospital, Wilmot Cancer Institute provides specialty cancer care services at the University of Rochester Medical Center and a network of 13 locations throughout the region, including an 88-bed hospital on the campus of the University’s Medical Center. Wilmot includes a team of more than 190 oncology physicians, 500-plus oncology nurses, and approximately 115 scientists who investigate many aspects of cancer.

About Indivumed

Indivumed is a biotech company focused on precision oncology. We discover therapeutically novel targets for the development of precision cancer therapeutics and strive for a future in which every cancer patient can benefit from precise therapeutic treatments.
To achieve this goal, we dedicate our skills and knowledge in cancer research to the identification, validation, and preclinical development of first-in-class therapeutics. With more than twenty years of experience and a truly unique resource, based on a standardized collection process that secures a cold ischemia time of under 10 minutes, we are committed to redefining oncology and bringing the best possible therapies to patients. www.indivumed.com 

Press Contacts

Indivumed GmbH
Kristin Maack, VP Corporate Communications
maack.kristin@indivumed.com

University of Rochester Medical Center/ Wilmot Cancer Institute
Kellie Fraver, Strategic Communications Director
kellie_fraver@urmc.rochester.edu
+1-585-314-1552

 

 

Kazia Therapeutics Highlights New Clinical and Translational Findings Demonstrating Paxalisib’s Ability to Reinvigorate Anti-Tumor Immunity Across Multiple Advanced Breast Cancer Populations including TNBC and HER2+

First patient from TNBC trial demonstrated 76% tumor volume shrinkage with corresponding reductions in circulating tumor cells (CTC) and clusters

Reinvigoration of immune system + turning cold tumors hot

Preliminary ex-vivo data in HER2+ patients demonstrates immune reinvigoration and reductions in CTC and clusters

SYDNEY, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kazia Therapeutics Limited (“Kazia” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: KZIA) today announced new data from two presentations at the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) providing compelling mechanistic and early clinical evidence supporting the activity of paxalisib, the Company’s brain-penetrant dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, across both HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).

The results, originating from advanced liquid biopsy profiling, immune phenotyping, and early clinical readouts, highlight paxalisib’s potential to disrupt highly aggressive circulating tumor cell (CTC) clusters, reverse epigenetically-driven resistance pathways, and reinvigorate exhausted T- and B-cell populations, thereby enhancing responsiveness to immunotherapy.

Paxalisib Disrupted Drivers of Metastasis: Vim⁺/Snail⁺/NRF2⁺ CTC Clusters in HER2+ Disease Ex Vivo

In HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, a population in which nearly all patients eventually relapse despite HER2-directed therapies, investigators observed that even patients who were radiographically responding continued to harbor substantial burdens of therapy-resistant CTC clusters—a key driver of metastatic spread.

Poster Presentation:  PS2-10-02 : Liquid Biopsy Tracking of PI3K–mTOR Residual Disease Signatures in Metastatic HER2+ Breast Cancer

Key findings:

  • Paxalisib reduced single CTCs by 42% and CTC clusters by 78% ex vivo, including large clusters (≥5 cells), which are strongly associated with metastatic progression.
  • CTC clusters expressed a highly aggressive mesenchymal phenotype marked by Vimentin⁺/Snail⁺/NRF2⁺, which paxalisib significantly disrupted.
  • Patients with poor clinical response demonstrated impaired cytotoxic function (reduced Granzyme B and Perforin) and expand­­ed exhausted T-cell populations, while paxalisib treatment activated cytotoxic, interferon, chemokine, and inflammatory pathways in samples from these patients, supporting a more immunologically “hot” tumor environment.

“These findings reveal an important biological gap left by existing HER2+ directed therapies,” said Prof. Sudha Rao, QIMR Berghofer. “CTC clusters persist even in responding patients, and paxalisib is the first agent we have observed that can directly dismantle this highly aggressive and clinically relevant compartment.”

TNBC Phase 1b Trial: Early Clinical Data from First Patient Show Robust Suppression of CTC Clusters and Reversal of T-Cell Exhaustion

Early longitudinal biomarker data from the first patient treated in the PaxPlus-ABC Phase 1b study (paxalisib + pembrolizumab + chemotherapy) indicate that paxalisib has had measurable biological activity after only a single cycle.

Poster Presentation:  PS5-08-04: A phase 1b, multi-centre, open-label, randomized study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and clinical activity of combining paxalisib with olaparib or pembrolizumab/chemotherapy in patients with advanced breast cancer

Highlights from first patient include:

  • Marked reduction in CTC clusters following the first cycle of paxalisib.
  • Epigenetic reprogramming of CTCs toward less aggressive phenotypes, confirmed through digital pathology and Nanostring profiling.
  • Significant reduction of exhausted CD8 T cells, with revitalization of cytotoxic and antigen-presentation pathways.
  • CT imaging has demonstrated overall primary tumor volume reduction from baseline 14mm x 11mm (154mm2) to 12mm x 3 mm (36mm2)
  • Notably, a temporary interruption of paxalisib (necessitated by a chemotherapy-related adverse event) resulted in a rapid resurgence of CTC clusters. Resumption of paxalisib after a short 3-week pause restored suppression of CTC clusters, indicating that pembrolizumab alone could not control these metastatic drivers and highlighting paxalisib’s unique mechanistic role.

Pembrolizumab Alone May Not Control CTC Burden; A Mechanistic Opportunity for Paxalisib

Across HER2+ and TNBC ex-vivo datasets, a consistent theme emerges:

  • Pembrolizumab monotherapy does not meaningfully reduce CTC burden, and in TNBC, CTC clusters increased when paxalisib was withheld.
  • Paxalisib directly targets mesenchymal, metastatic, and epigenetically resistant CTC clusters.
  • It also reinvigorates immune effector cells, potentially overcoming the cytotoxic dysfunction and exhaustion that limit checkpoint inhibitor efficacy.

This mechanistic direct suppression of metastasis-initiating cells plus restoration of immune function positions paxalisib as a potentially transformative immunotherapy-enhancing agent.

Expanding Opportunity Across Breast Cancer: HER2+, TNBC, BRCA-Mutated, and Beyond

Because mesenchymal CTC clusters and T-cell exhaustion are shared resistance mechanisms across multiple breast cancer subtypes, paxalisib’s effects are highly relevant beyond TNBC.

Emerging data suggest:

  • In HER2+ patients, despite targeted therapy, residual disease persists in the form of aggressive CTC clusters—a new therapeutic window for paxalisib.
  • In TNBC, paxalisib’s epigenetic and immunologic effects provide a strong rationale for combination with pembrolizumab, PARP inhibitors, and chemotherapy.
  • In BRCA-mutated and homologous recombination–deficient tumors, PI3K/mTOR inhibition may synergize with synthetic lethal strategies such as olaparib.

“Kazia’s recent clinical and translational findings point to a unifying biology across breast cancer subtypes,” said Dr. John Friend, CEO of Kazia Therapeutics. “Paxalisib appears capable of disrupting metastatic machinery that is not adequately addressed by current HER2-targeted therapies, checkpoint inhibitors, or chemotherapies. We believe these discoveries meaningfully expand the potential utility of paxalisib beyond our current development programs.”

For investor and media, please contact Alex Star, Managing Director LifeSci Advisors LLC,  Astarr@lifesciadvisors.com, +1-201-786-8795.

About Kazia Therapeutics

Kazia Therapeutics Limited (NASDAQ: KZIA) is an oncology-focused drug development company, based in Sydney, Australia. Our lead program is paxalisib, an investigational brain penetrant inhibitor of the PI3K / Akt / mTOR pathway, which is being developed to treat multiple forms of cancer. Licensed from Genentech in late 2016, paxalisib is or has been the subject of ten clinical trials in this disease. A completed Phase 2/3 study in glioblastoma (GBM-Agile) was reported in 2024 and discussions are ongoing for designing and executing a pivotal registrational study in pursuit of a standard approval. Other clinical trials involving paxalisib are ongoing in advanced breast cancer, brain metastases, diffuse midline gliomas, and primary central nervous system lymphoma, with several of these trials having reported encouraging interim data. Paxalisib was granted Orphan Drug Designation for glioblastoma by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in February 2018, and Fast Track Designation (FTD) for glioblastoma by the FDA in August 2020. Paxalisib was also granted FTD in July 2023 for the treatment of solid tumor brain metastases harboring PI3K pathway mutations in combination with radiation therapy. In addition, paxalisib was granted Rare Pediatric Disease Designation and Orphan Drug Designation by the FDA for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma in August 2020, and for atypical teratoid / rhabdoid tumors in June 2022 and July 2022, respectively. Kazia is also developing EVT801, a small molecule inhibitor of VEGFR3, which was licensed from Evotec SE in April 2021. Preclinical data has shown EVT801 to be active against a broad range of tumor types and has provided evidence of synergy with immuno-oncology agents. A Phase I study has been completed and preliminary data was presented at 15th Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium in September 2024. For more information, please visit www.kaziatherapeutics.com or follow us on X @KaziaTx.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements, which can generally be identified as such by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “future,” “forward,” “potential,” “anticipate,” or other similar words. Any statement describing Kazia’s future plans, strategies, intentions, expectations, objectives, goals or prospects, and other statements that are not historical facts, are also forward looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding: additional confirmatory data, imaging and analysis of the phase 1 TNBC clinical study, the timing for results and data related to Kazia’s clinical and preclinical trials, the upcoming scientific presentations, Kazia’s strategy, plans and next steps with respect to its paxalisib program, including enrolling patients in the PaxPlus-ABC Phase 1b study, the potential benefits, effects and utility of paxalisib, timing for any regulatory submissions or discussions with regulatory agencies and the potential market opportunity for paxalisib. Such statements are based on Kazia’s current expectations and projections about future events and future trends affecting its business and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, including risks and uncertainties associated with clinical and preclinical trials and product development, including the risk that interim or early data may not be consistent with final data, risks related to regulatory approvals, risks related to the impact of global economic conditions, and risks related to Kazia’s ability to regain and/or maintain compliance with the applicable Nasdaq continued listing requirements and standards. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in Kazia’s most recent Annual Report on form 20-F filed with the SEC, and in subsequent filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. Kazia undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required under applicable law. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this announcement.

OSN and the Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Digital Asset and Stablecoin Infrastructure in the UAE

ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Open Stable Network (OSN) and the Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi (ADBC) today announced the signing of a strategic partnership at Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), making a milestone collaboration to advance compliant digital asset and stablecoin infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The partnership unites ADBC’s deep regulatory and ecosystem expertise with OSN’s leading technology and operational resilience to accelerate the development of digital financial infrastructure in the UAE.

(left to right) Abdulla AI Dhaheri, CEO of the Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi (ADBC), and Lawrence Chu, Co-Founder of OSN, signed a strategic partnership to jointly establish OSN Abu Dhabi at Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW).
(left to right) Abdulla AI Dhaheri, CEO of the Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi (ADBC), and Lawrence Chu, Co-Founder of OSN, signed a strategic partnership to jointly establish OSN Abu Dhabi at Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW).

OSN is a stablecoin FX exchange infrastructure that enables seamless global money movement between stablecoins and fiat currencies, while ADBC serves as a center for blockchain and Web3 innovation, investment and collaboration in the region.

Through this collaboration, OSN and ADBC will jointly establish OSN Abu Dhabi, a UAE-based digital asset platform designed to deliver scalable and interoperable stablecoin settlement solutions. The platform is set to empower institutions to adopt digital assets at scale while contributing to the UAE’s vision of a diversified, innovation driven economy.

“Together with ADBC, we are charting a new chapter for digital finance in one of the world’s most forward-thinking markets,” said Lawrence Chu, Co-Founder of OSN. “Our shared vision is to make stablecoin infrastructure as seamless and trusted as traditional financial network, fueling new possibilities for cross-border payments and digital asset adoption from the UAE to the world.”

“The UAE has become a global hub for financial innovation, and our partnership with OSN leverages this momentum,” said Abdulla AI Dhaheri, CEO of ADBC. “By combining our regulatory expertise with OSN’s state-of-the-art technology and operational resilience, we are building a digital infrastructure that will help shape the global future of compliant and connected finance.”

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About Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi (ADBC)

The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi is a leading regional hub dedicated to accelerating blockchain innovation and enterprise adoption across the Middle East. Supporting the UAE’s vision for a digitally advanced economy, The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi provides strategic guidance, technical expertise, and ecosystem development to government bodies, industry partners, and emerging technology companies.

Focused on enabling real world implementation of blockchain and Web3 technologies, the Center convenes global innovators, facilitates cross sector collaboration, and drives research backed initiatives that strengthen the region’s digital infrastructure. Through its commitment to innovation, regulatory alignment, and industry advancement, The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi plays a key role in positioning the UAE as a global leader in blockchain technologies.

Learn more: https://theblockchaincenter.ae

About Open Stable Network (OSN)

OSN, Open Stable Network, is a global on-chain FX settlement infrastructure enabling seamless cross-border money movement. Through robust APIs, we connect local currency stablecoins across jurisdictions, empowering banks, payment providers, and enterprises to move value instantly and securely.

Built on Web3 infrastructure, our mission is to create a trusted, resilient network for global settlements, bridging stablecoin and fiat rails to make digital payments truly borderless.

Connect Globally. Move Money Freely. Exchange On-Demand.

Learn more: www.OSNetwork.com / LinkedIn / X