Supporting industrial transformation through embodied intelligence

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ENGINEAI Robotics Technology, a developer of embodied intelligence systems, showcased two flagship products at CES 2026. These included the PM01, a lightweight and highly mobile general-purpose embodied agent, and the ENGINEAI T800, a full-scale, high-efficiency universal humanoid robot making its global debut. The demonstration highlighted the performance capabilities of both platforms, while offering industry observers a practical, application-oriented perspective on the emerging potential of human-robot collaboration.

As one of the world’s largest and most influential consumer technology exhibitions, CES serves as both a global stage for introducing cutting-edge products and a benchmark for technological trends. This year, embodied intelligence moved to the forefront, shifting from a largely conceptual framework to deployable systems and signaling the industry’s rapid progression toward a more autonomous, intelligently collaborative future.

The ENGINEAI booth attracted steady visitor interest through live demonstrations of the T800 and PM01, highlighting full-body coordination and fine motor control capabilities. The demonstrations prompted in-depth technical exchanges with industry partners, developers, and media representatives, who discussed practical deployment scenarios and potential collaboration opportunities. Overall engagement reflected ongoing industry attention to embodied intelligence applications and the evolving role of human–robot collaboration across multiple sectors.

Building on its proven adaptability to real-world settings, the PM01 is advancing toward scaled deployment in multiple application areas, including public transportation, guided tours and retail services, and automated patrols and inspection tasks. With practicality and use-case-driven design as its core strengths, the PM01 effectively addresses concrete operational needs in intelligent transformation initiatives across industries, reinforcing the practical role of embodied intelligence in supporting industrial advancement. Its stable, repeatable performance was widely acknowledged by event attendees.

The ENGINEAI T800 generated significant interest across the robotics community and prompted extensive discussion. This humanoid robot illustrates ENGINEAI’s capabilities in key robotics subsystems and system-level integration. As a next-generation intelligent platform designed for real-world deployment, the T800 is equipped with a fully-integrated, high-torque joint module architecture capable of delivering up to 450 N•m of peak torque and 14,000 W of instantaneous joint peak power. Combined with high-degree-of-freedom joint structures in key areas such as the neck, waist, and hands, the robot achieves a high level of anthropomorphic mobility. In high-dynamic scenarios like martial arts and running, it delivers industry-leading dynamic output and load-handling capability.

Looking ahead to 2026, ENGINEAI will continue to focus on core technology development and long-term product strategy, with the objective of driving iterative advancement and expanding real-world application scenarios, guided by a focus on building solid foundations for impact-driven innovation. While further strengthening its existing product portfolio, ENGINEAI plans to align more closely with global market requirements to accelerate product refinement. Through an open and scalable approach to embodied intelligence, the company aims to leverage its technical capabilities to help shape the next phase of human-robot collaboration.

SINGAPORE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Influential Brands® proudly announces its upcoming 2026 Gala Event and Award Ceremony, set to take place on 6^th April at the Fullerton Hotel. Marking its 14th year of honouring business leadership, the event will gather distinguished brands, employers, sustainability champions and top business leaders from across Asia.

A Legacy of Celebrating Asia’s Champions of Excellence

With an awardee portfolio of over 500 of the most influential companies in Asia, Influential Brands® has established itself as a trusted platform for promoting and celebrating business excellence in Asia. Over the years, Influential Brands® has recognised prominent companies and industry shapers from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, China and beyond, fostering a strong community of forward-thinking leaders.

Award Categories Guided by Data and Meaningful Insights

Influential Brands®, headquartered in Singapore, employs a rigorous set of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to identify the region’s top performers in branding, talent engagement, sustainability and business leadership.

Each award under the Influential Brands® umbrella is grounded in comprehensive, ongoing research involving inputs from over 25,000 consumers, 50,000 employees and sustainability assessments and leadership reviews aligned with global standards.

Commitment towards employee engagement and positive workplace culture: Top Employer Award

As the labour market grows increasingly competitive and talent expectations continue to evolve, companies must distinguish themselves through genuine commitment to people and culture. In this landscape, recognising exemplary employers becomes essential, which is why the Top Employer Award highlights organisations that excel in creating meaningful, engaging and future ready workplaces that attract and retain the right talent.

Ms. Tan Chee Wei, Chief Human Capital Officer of SATS Limited said: “I am honored that SATS has been recognized as a 2025 and 2026 Asia’s Top Employer, which is a fitting validation of our unwavering commitment to our greatest asset; our people. We will continue to build fulfilling careers together, show appreciation for one another and make meaningful contributions as we power a connected world of trade, travel and taste.”

The 2025 and 2026 Top Employer Awardees include industry leaders such as Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), Accenture, CIMB Singapore, Koufu, NTUC LearningHub, WorkJoy, MoneyHero Group, SATS, Mandai Wildlife Group, HOYA Electronics, SP Group, Singtel Group, ShopBack, EtonHouse Group, UOL Group among other companies that have been endorsed by their employees as exemplary workplaces. A Top Employer company demonstrates exceptional standards in culture, engagement and employee support in Singapore and across the region.

Mr. Marcus Heng, Group Chief Human Resources Officer of Mandai Wildlife Group says, “What an honour to be recognised as a Top Employer. We are driven by a deep sense of purpose to protect wildlife, preserve nature, and create meaningful experiences that connect people with the natural world. This accolade is a testament to the passion, dedication, and care our employees bring every day. When our people find meaning in their work, they show up as their best selves and create exceptional experiences for others. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to fostering a workplace where every individual feels empowered to learn, contribute, and make a positive impact on our planet.”

Recognising outstanding ESG stewards in Asia: Top Sustainability Award

In an era where stakeholders are more conscious of corporate behaviour than ever before, companies are judged not only on what they offer but on how they operate. Stakeholders want assurance that companies are acting responsibly, managing their environmental footprint and contributing positively to communities. The Top Sustainability Award honours companies that exemplify this standard, showcasing leadership through comprehensive ESG disclosures and responsible long term strategies.

The 2025 Top Sustainability Companies include Sustainability Champions such as FairPrice Group, Singtel Group, UOL Group among other prominent companies demonstrating exceptional progress and leadership in ESG transparency and responsible business practices.

Ms. Grace Chua, Chief Sustainability Officer of FairPrice Group said: “We are deeply honoured to receive Influential Brands’ Top Sustainability 2025 Award. FairPrice Group’s purpose is to make every day a little better for those we serve, and keeping things easy on the planet is a big part of this commitment. Together with our customers, partners, and people, we will continue to do our part in building a greener future for the communities we operate in, one day at a time.”

Standing out in the Hearts of Consumers: Top Brand Award

Backed by a robust market survey across Asia with the participation of over 25,000 consumers, prominent brands are named the “Top Influential Brands”. From parents, grocery shoppers, tourists to frequent travellers, the survey provides a comprehensive view of consumers’ preference in key markets in Asia.

Mr. Lawrence Chan, Group CEO of NETS says, “We’re honoured to be recognised as Singapore’s Top Influential Brand in Digital Payments. A heartfelt thank you to our customers for your continued support and trust. This award reflects our commitment to helping businesses grow and motivates us to continue connecting communities and empowering lives through what we do.”

The Top Brand Awardees include industry leaders such as NETS, FairPrice Group, NTUC LearningHub, Maybank Singapore, MoneyOwl, PRIME, Beijing Tong Ren Tang, Chew’s, Yeo’s, Eu Yan Sang TCM Clinic, Guardian, Colgate, Avance, How’s Catering, Daikin, Popular, 21st Century Healthcare, CaterCo, Farmpride, Lau Pa Sat, Kopitiam, 3 Embers, MODU, DRIM, Biti’s, AOz, Hegen, Anytime Fitness, Wells Singapore, hue, Nirvana Asia Group among other companies that have been endorsed by consumers as their prefer brands. The Top Brand Award honours brands that have built enduring resonance with consumers, strengthened by authenticity, relevance and a compelling value proposition across diverse markets.

Ms. Annie Lee, Head of Country Corporate Office Maybank said: “We are honoured to be recognised as the Top Influential Brand under the ASEAN Bank category. This recognition reflects the trust our customers and communities continue to place in us, and reaffirms our commitment of Humanising Financial Services.”

Honouring Leaders who integrate purpose into performance: Top CEO Award

A highlight of the Gala Event is the presentation of the Asia’s Top CEO Award, an honour reserved for senior leaders who exemplify outstanding business expansion, financial excellence, innovative leadership, and unwavering integrity. Mr. Harpreet Bindra, CEO of HSBC Life, stands among this year’s distinguished honourees from the Insurance Services industry.

Interested companies to join the Gala Event on 6^th April 2026

Influential Brands® welcome companies that aspire to be recognised for their excellence in leadership, branding, sustainability and human capital to submit their applications by the 27th February 2026. This is an opportunity to join a prestigious community of business leaders and gain recognition as the best in business at the Gala Night on 6^th April 2026.

Mr Jorge Rodriguez, Managing Director of Influential Brands®, said, “It is our honour to recognise Business Excellence across Asia. We look forward to welcoming ASEAN business leaders to the Gala Event in April 2026 at the Fullerton Hotel. It will be an evening of celebration, meaningful connections, and shared opportunities for collaboration.”.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology, a leader in high-end consumer electronics, today introduced its revolutionary Roboticmower A3 AWD Pro to North America at CES 2026. Integrating 360° 3D LiDAR, binocular AI vision, and a four-wheel-drive system, it aims to redefine intelligence, performance, and security in robotic lawn care.

Marking a shift from random-movement, wire-reliant mowers, the A3 AWD Pro brings “set-and-forget” automation with continuous AI learning, advancing toward a fully integrated home robotics ecosystem.

Core Intelligent Technology:

The system combines three pillars for complex gardens:

OmniSense™ 3.0 3D Ultra-Sensing System: This “brain” integrates a 360° 3D LiDAR Scanner with a Binocular AI Vision System. It provides a 70-meter detection range, centimeter-level precision, and 360° panoramic sensing, capable of accurately identifying and intelligently avoiding over 300 common garden objects

4WD Hub Motors: The powerful “body” provides an 80% (38.7°) hill-climbing ability and overcomes 5.5cm obstacles, ensuring complete coverage and stability during mowing, shedding the “delicate” image of past products

EdgeMaster™ 2.0 Precision Edge-Trimming System: These “skilled hands” use auto-oscillating dual blades for precise trimming, eliminating untrimmed edge weeds for professional-grade lawn aesthetics.

From Tool to Guardian:

The A3 AWD Pro also functions as a “24/7 Garden Guardian.” Its binocular AI vision supports real-time video, human detection, and patrols, sending alerts for unusual activity. A multi-layered anti-theft system includes GPS, lift-up alerts, Apple AirTag compatibility, and a built-in 4G eSIM for tracking even outside Wi-Fi range.

Dreame Roboticmower APEX displayed on this show demonstrated a robotic arm’s potential for tasks like picking up obstacles, assisting with watering, and performing delicate edge-trimming work to further explore the integration of such modules for richer garden interaction. This points to the evolution of the next-generation garden robot: from a single-function tool to a scalable, multi-tasking Intelligent Garden Manager.

Availability & Price:

The A3 AWD Pro is scheduled for North America pre-sale in February 2026, with a global launch in March. Recommended retail price starts from $3,099.99.Pricing in other regions may vary based on local market conditions

About Dreame Technology:

Established in 2017, Dreame Technology is a global leader in high-end consumer electronics and intelligent manufacturing. For more information, visit https://global.dreametech.com/.

Finshape, a leading provider of digital banking solutions, announced the appointment of Neil Budd as the company’s new CEO.

PRAGUE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Budd joins Finshape an experienced executive with 25+years in banking, technology and consulting. He will focus on the company’s continued international growth, strengthening value delivery for clients, and expanding activities primarily across Western Europe, the Middle East and the APAC region. Current CEO Petr Koutný will move to position of the Chairman of the Board.

Neil Budd, CEO of Finshape

Financial institutions today are working out how to turn their investments in digitalisation into measurable outcomes in conjunction with understanding how to harness the potential of artificial intelligence in a meaningful way. “Banks are looking for technology partners they can trust for the long term. Finshape has a strong, relevant product portfolio, experienced teams, and stable, trusted relationships with banks. With our ADBO System and new capabilities in loyalty and personalisation, we will continue to help banks deliver tangible value to their customers and accelerate our growth journey to new markets” said Neil Budd.

Finshape has been growing for the long term, particularly in CEE, where it works with major financial institutions including Erste Group, Raiffeisen Bank International AG, OTP Bank Group or Banca Transilvania. In 2025 Finshape generated EUR 55 million in revenue according to its consolidated results and grew 30% year-on-year. The company is also expanding its international footprint. Further growth has been supported by the recent acquisition of the loyalty platform Realtime-XLS from Collinson Group, and a strategic partnership with Dubai Islamic Bank, the largest Islamic bank in the United Arab Emirates.

These steps strengthen Finshape’s role in global digital banking. Finshape intends to be a market leader in implementing technologies, specifically focusing on the meaningful integration of AI into the operations and into client offerings to deliver measurable outcomes for banks.

Before joining Finshape, Neil worked at various leading global consulting and advisory firms. At Finastra, he served as Vice President Global Head Strategic Partnerships Ecosystem and Alliances as well as Global Head Managed Services. At Accenture, he was Managing Director.

Today, Finshape serves 100+ financial institutions in 25 countries across four continents.  
The company’s team includes 600+ specialists, supporting tens of millions of end users worldwide. Finshape’s growth is driven by a combination of organic development and targeted acquisitions.

DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, revealed the 2025 annual performance of Bybit Private Wealth Management (PWM), reporting a top fund return of 20.30% APR (Annual Percentage Rate) driven by its flagship high-yield USDT-based strategies. The results reflected a growing trend among high-net-worth investors seeking diversified, stable, and risk-managed returns over volatile directional bets.

Bybit PWM 2025 Performance: Disciplined Strategy Through Uncertainty

Despite significant cryptocurrency market volatility in 2025, Bybit PWM‘s diversified approach delivered consistent results across multiple strategy types throughout 2025:

• Top-performing fund: 20.30% APR (USDT-based high-yield strategy)
• USDT-based strategies: Average APR of 9.61%
• BTC-based strategies: Average APR of 4.54%

From the “High-Rate Plateau” to the Return of Liquidity

The Bybit PWM Annual Letter also put into perspective the challenging macroeconomic framework that defined 2025. Key market dynamics that shaped the year included sustained central bank restrictiveness, fluctuating regulatory developments, and selective institutional adoption that favored established protocols and yield-generating strategies with a proven track record.

Despite the headwinds, Bybit PWM’s Delta Neutral Arbitrage Strategy proved particularly resilient, demonstrating strong counter-cyclical characteristics during severe market drawdowns.

Looking ahead, analysts anticipate a potential shift in market conditions, signaling a transition that could catalyze improved liquidity conditions across both traditional and digital asset markets in 2026. Increased institutional adoption, enhanced regulatory clarity in key jurisdictions, and crypto-linked financial product innovations are on the cards for 2026.

“As we enter 2026, we’re positioning client portfolios to benefit from an anticipated return of market liquidity,” said Jerry Li, Head of Financial Products & Wealth Management at Bybit. “The disciplined approach that served our clients well during 2025’s challenging environment positions us to capture upside as macro conditions potentially improve.”

About Bybit Private Wealth Management

Bybit PWM provides wealth builders with exclusive, customized solutions, delivering:

• Bespoke investment strategies tailored to client risk profiles and objectives
• Professional asset allocation and active risk management
• Access to curated private funds and institutional-grade infrastructure
• Dedicated relationship management and market expertise

Bybit PWM combines deep cryptomarket knowledge with sophisticated portfolio management expertise to help clients grow, preserve, and diversify digital wealth across market cycles. Qualified investors interested in exploring Bybit Private Wealth Management services may visit: Bybit Private Wealth Management

#Bybit / #CryptoArk / #IMakeIt  

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 80 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

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

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• Nearly half of business leaders expect more than 15% revenue uplift from AI within 10 years
• Agentic AI is emerging as a priority with 35% of organizations calling it a top focus

CHICAGO, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The era of efficiency is over and the growth race has begun. According to new research from Thoughtworks, a global technology consultancy that integrates design, engineering and AI to drive digital innovation, 77% of business leaders have shifted their AI strategies from cost savings to growth and innovation. Among large enterprises the shift rises to 92%.

The research surveyed 3,500 IT decision-makers and C-suite leaders along with 3,500 consumers across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, India, Brazil, Singapore and Australia.

The results show that AI is rapidly moving from a back-office tool into a driver of top-line performance. Twenty seven percent of executives globally expect up to 10% revenue growth from AI in the next year. India and Brazil are the most optimistic with 49.2% in each market expecting more than 15% revenue uplift within five years. Germany is more cautious at 28.8% and Australia sits at 20%. Nearly half of global leaders expect AI to deliver more than 15% revenue uplift within a decade.

In Singapore, the drive for adoption is fuelling a unique ‘innovation pressure cooker’ environment. The region reports the highest rate of ‘AI FOMO’ globally at 66%, pushing companies to look beyond efficiency and focus on customer metrics; 23% of leaders now cite increased Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) as the primary impact of their AI initiatives. However, this ambition faces a critical bottleneck: Singapore faces the world’s most acute talent shortage, with 21% of leaders citing skills gaps as their top barrier to scaling—underscoring that success in the Lion City will depend on talent acquisition as much as technological implementation.

Agentic AI is also emerging as a clear dividing line in how fast regions are moving. Globally, 35% of leaders say agentic AI is now a top priority. India leads with 48.6% followed by Singapore at 40.8% and the United Kingdom at 40%. Brazil sits at 28.2% and the United States matches this at 28% while Australia reports 23.4%. Germany lands near the global average at 31% showing steady interest but slower acceleration.

“This marks a structural shift in how organizations plan for growth,” said Rachel Laycock, chief technology officer at Thoughtworks. “Leaders are no longer asking how efficient they can become. They are asking how expansive they can be. The organizations moving fastest are integrating AI into the core of how they operate.”

The research also shows a significant change inside boardrooms worldwide. More than half of surveyed companies now have a Chief AI Officer. Adoption of the role is highest in India and Brazil and lower in Australia and Germany which lag the global average. Among organizations with a CAIO 72% say the role holds budget authority and accountability for return on investment.

“The CAIO role is no longer experimental,” said Shayan Mohanty, Chief AI Officer at Thoughtworks. “It sits at the center of strategy. The companies that are separating from the pack are the ones that make AI part of their foundation rather than a side project.”

Consumers remain unconvinced
While business confidence is rising many consumers remain unsure about how AI will affect their everyday lives. Twenty one percent globally say AI will have no impact on them in the next five years. In the United Kingdom this rises to 38% and in the United States it reaches 32%. Skepticism is lower in markets like Brazil and India where consumers report higher exposure to AI assisted services. Concerns also vary sharply across regions. Fear of misinformation is highest in the United States and United Kingdom while demand for transparency is strongest in Brazil and India.

Despite these concerns a majority of consumers report positive experiences with AI. Seventy two percent say AI is adding value to their work or personal life. One quarter say AI has helped them learn a new skill and 13% say they have used AI to create a new income stream.

AI reshapes talent and job growth
The findings challenge common fears that AI will lead to widespread job loss. Globally, 84% of business leaders say AI is augmenting talent not replacing it. Job creation varies strongly across markets. India leads with 57.1% of organizations reporting a net increase in roles created through human AI collaboration. Brazil follows at 50%. The United States reports 36% and Australia 33%. Twenty two percent of organizations globally say they have created new AI driven career paths that did not exist before.

The study shows that AI is not eliminating ambition. It is expanding. The companies that treat AI as a way to elevate their people will build stronger competitive advantages.

Supporting resources:

• Read more about the findings of the research.
• Keep up with Thoughtworks news by visiting the company’s website.
• Follow us on X, LinkedIn and YouTube.

About the study

The research was conducted by Censuswide between September and October 2025. It surveyed 3,500 IT decision-makers and C-suite executives plus 3,502 consumers across seven global markets. Censuswide follows the Market Research Society code of conduct and ESOMAR principles.

Additional study findings

1. How confident are companies that they are ahead of competitors in using AI for growth?

Globally, 61% of organizations believe they are ahead of their industry peers in capturing AI driven value. India reports the highest confidence at 78% followed by Brazil at 76%.

2. How widespread is AI FOMO among business leaders?

AI FOMO is real. Fifty six percent of executives globally say they feel competitive pressure to adopt AI quickly. Singapore reports the highest level of anxiety at 66% followed by India at 62.8%.

3. What role does a clear AI strategy play in successful adoption?

A clear AI strategy is both the biggest barrier and the biggest accelerator for organizations. Twenty nine percent of companies globally say the lack of a strategy is the top obstacle to realizing AI’s full potential. At the same time 45% say a clear strategy is the most important factor for scaling AI successfully followed by technology infrastructure at 35% and high quality data at 31%.

4. What do companies say is the biggest impact of successful AI initiatives?

Globally, customer lifetime value has increased for 17% of organizations due to AI. Singapore leads at 23% followed by India at 20%.

5. What drives companies to be transparent about AI use?

The top driver globally is building customer trust and brand loyalty cited by 30% of organizations. Brazil leads at 37% and India at 36%.

6. Which countries are moving fastest from efficiency to growth?

India and Brazil show the strongest shift with more than 92% agreeing their AI strategy has moved to growth and innovation. Australia is the slowest mover with only 62.8% reporting the shift which is well below the 77% global average.

7. Which markets expect the biggest revenue gains from AI?

India and Brazil anticipate the highest revenue impact with 49.2% expecting AI to deliver more than 15% uplift within five years. Germany is far more cautious at 28.8% and Australia at 20%.

8. Where is AI job creation strongest?

India leads the world with 57.1% of organizations reporting a net increase in roles created through human AI collaboration. Brazil follows at 50%. The United States is lower at 36% and Australia at 33%.

9. Which countries show the strongest commitment to agentic AI?

India again leads with 48.6% naming agentic AI as a primary future focus. Singapore follows at 40.8%. Brazil is notably lower at 28.2%.

10. Where do organizations feel most constrained by regulation?

Brazil faces the highest regulatory pressure with 28% citing regulation as the main barrier to realizing AI’s full potential. This is significantly higher than the global average and much higher than India at 9.6% and the United States at 11.9%.

About Thoughtworks

Thoughtworks is a global technology consultancy that integrates design, engineering and AI to drive digital innovation. We are over 10,000 Thoughtworkers strong across 47 offices in 18 countries. For 30+ years, we’ve delivered extraordinary impact together with our clients by helping them solve complex business problems with technology as the differentiator.

Media contact

Kathrin Jansing
Head of Public Relations Europe
Email: kathrin.jansing@thoughtworks.com