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Emerhub Opens Office in Singapore, Completing Southeast Asia Expansion

SINGAPORE, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Emerhub, a leading provider of market entry and corporate compliance services, announced the launch of its operations in Singapore. With this expansion, Emerhub now fully covers Southeast Asia’s major markets, including Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia.

Emerhub provides company incorporation, visa processing, accounting and tax services across South East Asia
Emerhub provides company incorporation, visa processing, accounting and tax services across South East Asia

Emerhub helps businesses navigate complex regulatory processes, enabling easier expansion across Southeast Asia. Establishing a presence in Singapore, a key financial and business hub, strengthens Emerhub’s ability to deliver comprehensive support to companies entering the region.

“Our expansion into Singapore fulfills our mission to make Southeast Asia easily accessible for companies of all sizes,” said Lauri Lahi, Chairman of Emerhub. “Our goal has always been to lower the entry barriers across emerging markets. Businesses can now enter one market  in SEA and quickly scale to others, managing compliance effortlessly through our centralized Entity Management System.” There aren’t many providers that offer Emerhub’s breadth of services combined with its quality and competitive pricing.

Learn more about Emerhub.

Singapore’s stable regulatory environment and business-friendly policies offer significant advantages to companies targeting regional growth. Emerhub’s presence in Singapore enables clients to capitalize efficiently on Southeast Asia’s economic opportunities, reducing administrative burdens and time-to-market.

Furthermore, Emerhub’s Entity Management System simplifies company setup, compliance management, and administrative tasks by combining user-friendly technology with insights from local experts. Clients gain access to real-time updates, straightforward reporting, and key regulatory insights—all accessible through one centralized platform.

For more information, visit emerhub.com. 

About Emerhub

Emerhub is among the leading market entry and compliance service providers in Southeast Asia, helping businesses with company setup, license acquisition, and corporate administration.

Established in 2011, Emerhub operates eight offices across the region, supported by over 146 consultants who assist international companies in navigating regional regulatory landscapes.

Media Contact
Francesca Shippey
Chief Revenue Officer
Francesca.shippey@emerhub.com 

IRBM Expands Functional Genomics Platform to Strengthen Early Drug Discovery

De-Risking Target Validation with Data-Driven Genomic Insights

ROME, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — IRBM, an integrated Contract Research Organization (CRO) specializing in preclinical drug discovery, has established a comprehensive Functional Genomics Platform to support genetic target identification and validation, and generation of disease-relevant cellular models. The platform integrates CRISPR-based methodologies, screening capabilities, cell engineering, and advanced molecular and cellular analysis to drive both target discovery and validation.

Stepwise workflow for CRISPR-based genome editing, including base and prime editing, a key focus of IRBM’s expanded Functional Genomics Platform.
Stepwise workflow for CRISPR-based genome editing, including base and prime editing, a key focus of IRBM’s expanded Functional Genomics Platform.

To further enhance target validation, IRBM is expanding its genome editing toolkit with CRISPR tiling to systematically map functional domains within coding and regulatory regions, along with base and prime editing to introduce precise nucleotide modifications. These next-generation approaches—combined with the platform’s high-throughput CRISPR screening, including stem cell engineering—are instrumental in building robust disease models and improving the reliability of target validation.

“Understanding which targets are truly viable for drug development is a complex challenge,” said Sara Tomaselli, PhD, Head of Functional Genomics at IRBM. “With this in-house platform, we’re strengthening our ability to systematically evaluate gene function, de-risk early discovery, and support our partners in making well-informed decisions.”

The platform’s screening capabilities include genome-wide and targeted CRISPR libraries for knockout (CRISPR KO), inhibition (CRISPRi), and activation (CRISPRa), enabling in-depth exploration of gene function and associated pathways. In parallel, IRBM’s cell engineering expertise—spanning patient-relevant models and iPSC-derived systems—supports disease modeling across oncology, neurodegeneration, and rare disorders. Multi-omics integration, including high-content imaging, single-cell transcriptomics, and proteomics, provides deeper functional characterization of drug targets.

IRBM’s Functional Genomics Platform is part of a broader, fully integrated drug discovery ecosystem, ensuring that genetic insights translate into meaningful preclinical models and drug development strategies. By combining functional genomics with expertise in medicinal chemistry, biomarker discovery, and preclinical pharmacology, IRBM enables biopharma innovators to approach target validation with greater confidence.

“We take a careful, methodical approach to functional genomics—one that integrates well with the complexities of drug discovery,” said Carlo Toniatti, MD, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at IRBM. “Our goal is to help our partners uncover high-quality targets and generate data that can guide and inform decision making throughout the entire drug discovery process.”

IRBM’s collaborative approach allows biotech startups, pharmaceutical companies, and venture-backed teams to access functional genomics expertise without the need for in-house infrastructure. With customized solutions spanning genetic screening, engineered cell models, and mechanistic studies, IRBM provides practical, scientifically rigorous support at key points in drug discovery.

To learn more about IRBM’s Functional Genomics Platform and collaboration opportunities, visit www.irbm.com.

About IRBM

IRBM is a contract research organization (CRO) focused on early-stage drug discovery. With a track record of delivering preclinical candidates across oncology, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases, IRBM partners with biotech and pharmaceutical innovators to advance therapeutic development with scientific precision and transparency.

 

HiTouch, a Mobile App that Improves the Happiness of Individuals and Organizations

SEOUL, South Korea, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the social atmosphere emphasizes the importance of mental health care and depression prevention, the number of companies providing related services is increasing. HiTouch, a recently launched mobile app for measuring happiness, is attracting attention.

HiTouch is an innovative app that allows users to easily measure their happiness with the touch of a cellphone once a day. It’s easy to use and can be used as an HR solution for both individuals and companies.

HiTouch allows users to diagnose and continuously manage their well-being based on data that is accumulated daily. This can help prevent negative emotions such as stress and depression.

The app provides a four-step systematic happiness management cycle consisting of happiness measurement, happiness diagnosis, self-happiness management, and communication, and is designed to be integrated into an individual’s daily life and corporate culture.

HiTouch’s main features include a happiness measurement function that easily measures happiness daily and a function that compares and analyzes happiness among various groups such as teams, companies, countries, and age groups. In addition, HiTouch has a happiness diary, community features, and a point earning system to help you keep track of your emotional state and encourage and communicate with family, friends, and coworkers.

While happiness surveys and organizational culture assessments typically cost companies at least a few million won to tens of millions of won, HiTouch is free to use. The company hopes to help companies take a step towards becoming a ‘great workplace”.

https://metadata14.com/touch/participate_form.php

Individuals can download and use it for free from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

*Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/kr/app/hitouch-happiness-index/id6741422515?uo=2

*Google Play Store: 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.metadata.hitouch&pcampaignid=web_share

In the future, HiTouch will continue to update and add new features to allow users to manage their happiness in a more detailed and personalized way. The idea is not just to measure happiness, but to empower users to actively manage their happiness and create a better life.

“We believe that small daily acts of happiness will contribute significantly to the protection of individual mental health and the creation of a happy organizational culture,” said a HiTouch official, “and we look forward to establishing HiTouch as a practical happiness management solution for both individuals and organizations.”

BLUETTI Partners with Leave No Trace to Power Sustainable Outdoor Adventures

Driven by robust ESG values, BLUETTI teamed up with Leave No Trace to drive responsible outdoor recreation through engaging training, educational programs with innovative clean energy solutions.

LAS VEGAS, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In the wake of escalating global climate change and extreme weather events, BLUETTI, a leading innovator in clean energy solutions, is proud to announce a partnership with Leave No Trace, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering responsible outdoor practices. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in the shared ESG commitment, as it integrates clean solar-powered solutions into outdoor adventures for more sustainable outdoor recreation and lifestyle.

BLUETTI Powers Leave No Trace with Portable Power Stations for Camping and Sustainable Outdoor Adventures
BLUETTI Powers Leave No Trace with Portable Power Stations for Camping and Sustainable Outdoor Adventures

“More than ever, our mission is crucial: to support responsible nature exploration through clean energy solutions that minimize our environmental footprint,” stated James Ray, spokesperson for BLUETTI. “Our alliance with Leave No Trace is born from a deep resonance with their core principles of sustainability. Through BLUETTI’s solar solutions, we’re taking tangible steps to care for our planet, working alongside Leave No Trace to minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and more.”

“At Leave No Trace, our mission is to educate and inspire communities to protect the outdoors. As our teams travel from place to place sharing these vital practices, staying powered up is essential.” says Leave No Trace Executive Director, Dana Watts. “Partnering with BLUETTI ensures that we can continue delivering impactful education while minimizing our footprint, no matter where our journey takes us. We’re proud to partner with a company that shares our commitment to responsible and sustainable outdoor practices.”

Powering Leave No Trace Traveling Teams with Clean Energy

Since 1999,  Leave No Trace’s Training and Educational Team has transformed trails, campsites, and public lands into interactive outdoor classrooms, engaging thousands of hikers, campers, and environmental advocates across the U.S. 

This year, the team continues its mission to educate and inspire outdoor enthusiasts. To enhance their fieldwork, traveling educators are utilizing the BLUETTI Elite 200 V2 solar generator as a vivid example of responsible energy use in nature.

Operating at a whisper-quite 16dB, the Elite 200 V2 significantly reduces noise pollution compared to traditional generators that emit around 60dB. This low-noise solar generator ensures minimal disturbance to wildlife and fellow adventurers, making it ideal for camping and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the solar generator provides a clean, , smoke-free alternative to gas generators, allowing team members to power coffee makers and cooking equipment while reducing wildfire risks in the upcoming wildfire season. To further reduce carbon footprint, team members will install Charger 1 Alternator Charger to capture excess power from their car’s alternator for fast recharging. Along with the 200W Portable Solar Panel, they can recharge their power stations using the sunlight, ensuring smooth travels across the United States.

Making Clean Energy the New Trail Marker

Charge clean, leave no trace. As outdoor life increasingly relies on energy solutions, these two green pioneers are on a shared journey, redefining sustainable energy use for nature exploration. BLUETTI is furthering sustainable energy practices outdoors while expanding the reach of Leave No Trace principles, jointly exploring effective energy practices to preserve the purity of natural landscapes and a healthier planet. 

About BLUETTI

From product design to corporate social responsibility, BLUETTI is a committed advocate for sustainability embodying ESG initiatives. Through projects like LAAF (Light An African Family), BLUETTI is helping communities in Africa access affordable, sustainable energy, empowering families who need it most. This blend of craftsmanship, reliability, and a focus on real-world needs is what makes BLUETTI trusted in over 110 countries and regions.
For more information, visit BLUETTI at https://www.bluettipower.com/, or follow BLUETTI Facebook / BLUETTI X.

About Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing Leave No Trace programs, education, training and outreach in all 50 states and more than 100 countries around the globe. Utilizing the power of science, education for all and stewardship to support and protect nature, Leave No Trace is on a mission to ensure a sustainable future for the outdoors. Learn more at: www.LNT.org.

Media Contact 
Ellen Lee
BLUETTI PR Team
ellelee@bluetti.com

Blackpearl Group announces US-based COO to drive aggressive growth strategy

PHOENIX, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blackpearl Group Limited (NZX:BPG) has appointed Christie Kerner as its Chief Operating Officer (COO) to support the company’s strategic go-to-market (GTM) strategy and drive its next phase of growth in the US market. With over 30 years of experience scaling companies of all sizes, leading global teams and driving operational excellence, Kerner will play a pivotal role in strengthening Blackpearl Group’s leadership team as it accelerates expansion.

“The US is our primary market and local expertise is key to our success. To do this, we need to secure world-class talent with the chops, experience and proven ability to align company operations with trajectory,” comments Nick Lissette, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Blackpearl Group.

With extensive experience in both high-growth startups and profitable, long-term businesses, Kerner brings a rare ability to balance ambition with structure. “Her leadership will be instrumental in ensuring Blackpearl Group scales effectively while preserving the ingenuity and agility that set us apart,” adds Lissette.

Leading from the US – scaling with vision

Kerner will be based in the US and will work to closely align the company’s US and NZ teams. Her focus will be on building the infrastructure needed to support long-term success. “We’re sitting on a launchpad right now – our trajectory is set and my role is to refine our strategies, remove barriers and shape the rocketship for sustainable growth,” she says.

“Scaling isn’t just about growth though – it’s about ensuring the right people are in the right seats, that priorities are aligned and that we’re disciplined in execution,” explains Kerner. “I focus on creating an environment where people thrive – because when they do, the businesses will thrive.”

A track record of leadership and impact

With a Master’s in Management and Leadership, Kerner’s career spans senior leadership roles across startups, corporates and academia where she is renowned for her ability to balance aggressive growth with sound fiscal strategy, ensuring businesses scale effectively while maintaining strong foundations.

Kerner has been instrumental in shaping the growth-stage startup ecosystem in the US, helping companies as they scale toward $200M+ in revenue. As a board member of StartupAZ and Founder of the Founders Collective, she has championed high-growth founders navigating this critical phase and has scaled international programs with Startup Grind.

Kerner has also built and exited multiple companies and served as an Entrepreneur in Residence advising founders on growth, leadership and decision-making. Previously, she led the Center for Entrepreneurship at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business (the largest public university in the US) and was Executive Director of Student Entrepreneurship across ASU.

“This experience aligns seamlessly with Blackpearl Group’s trajectory as it moves beyond $11M in ARR and into its next stage of growth,” adds Lissette.

A billion-dollar vision

“AI and emerging technologies can disrupt markets overnight,” notes Kerner, adding that “Success lies in building resilience and that’s rooted in an ability to innovate on an ongoing basis.”

Blackpearl Group leverages a portfolio approach to product development within a rapidly evolving tech landscape, reflected in the development of Bebop, the company’s AI-powered sales intelligence tool, in a single quarter. Bebop is a game-changer for SMEs, offering powerful sales intelligence at a fraction of the cost of competitors like ZoomInfo, Kaspr and Apollo. The beta launch of Bebop follows the success of Pearl Diver, Blackpearl Group’s flagship prospect identification platform. Pearl Diver is a marketing intelligence platform which offers businesses a way of off-setting their reliance on traditional pay-to-play ad platforms.

“Under Nick’s progressive leadership, we have the potential to be a billion-dollar company. Importantly, we’re not building that success around a single product – we’re creating a portfolio of solutions that balance high-risk innovation with consistent, long-term performance,” she adds.

“Christie shares a belief that’s been fundamental to our success so far: it’s time to stop playing small. This appointment brings together ambition, strategy and the discipline to execute at scale and I’m excited to see its effects,” concludes Lissette.

About Blackpearl Group (NZX: BPG)

Blackpearl Group is a market-leading data technology company that pioneers AI-driven, sales and marketing solutions for the US market. 

Specifically engineered for small-medium-sized businesses (SMEs), Blackpearl Group consistently delivers exceptional value to its customers. Our mantra is simple: ‘Creating Motivating Opportunities.’ 

Blackpearl creates the opportunities that motivate action. We create high-impact products that pivot at speed to serve what businesses really need, kick-starting action – turning data into dollars. 

Founded in 2012, Blackpearl Group is based in Wellington, New Zealand, and Phoenix, Arizona. blackpearl.com 

 

Jewelers Mutual® Group Acquires Q Report

The acquisition creates a competitive advantage that will expand the Group’s footprint into Australia and allow for operational synergies that will benefit the global jewelry market.

NEENAH, Wis., April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Jewelers Mutual® Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, recently announced its acquisition of Jewellers Loop, the company which founded Q Report. Jewellers Loop is an Australian general agency with access to two leading specialized jewelry insurance products, Q Report and JewelCover. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in the history of Jewelers Mutual, representing the company’s initial venture into international markets for personal jewelry insurance.

Both organizations will leverage their combined expertise to expand personal lines insurance solutions to more customers in more markets. The acquisition sets the foundation to further revolutionize how products and services are delivered through the synergistic alignment of technology, data and analytics for enhanced customer experiences.

“This strategic acquisition strengthens our collective ability to deliver unparalleled service and innovation to the jewelry industry on a global scale, ensuring both our companies thrive, grow and continue learning from each other’s successes,” said Scott Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jewelers Mutual. “Bringing our capabilities together supports our united mission to elevate the love of jewelry and protect the pieces that mean the world to our customers.”

Jewellers Loop was founded in 2004 under the Q Report brand as Australia’s first specialist jewelry insurance provider. Since inception, the company has built a strong reputation and is known for its high-quality service and customer satisfaction, providing access to comprehensive coverage for jewelry customers. Both insurance products offered through Jewellers Loop – Q Report and JewelCover – are underwritten by Chubb Insurance Australia Unlimited, a carrier relationship valued by Jewelers Mutual.

“The world is changing fast, and the way people interact with businesses is evolving. Together, we’re embracing that change, using technology to enhance every customer touchpoint, and ensuring we remain industry leaders,” said Rami Baron, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Jewellers Loop.

For more information about this acquisition and what it means for customers in both North American and Australian markets, visit JewelersMutual.com/JL.

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. served as exclusive financial advisor, and Dentons provided legal counsel, for Jewelers Mutual. 

ABOUT JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP
Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 38 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2024. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas, Miami, Florida and Raleigh, North Carolina. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.  

ABOUT JEWELLERS LOOP
Jewellers Loop, the company which founded Q Report, was established in 2004 as Australia’s first specialist jewelry insurance provider and today is a leading Australian provider of specialty consumer insurance for jewelry and time pieces. The company provides comprehensive insurance across three key categories: engagement rings, watches and jewelry, and through two brands: ‘Q Report’ and ‘JewelCover’. These two brands have enjoyed a 20-year relationship with Chubb Insurance Australia Limited as their underwriters and continues to do so. Jewellers Loop retains ownership of the customer relationship and customer data and manages all customer interactions. Since inception, the company has built a strong reputation and is known for its high-quality service and customer satisfaction, as evidenced by its 5.0-star Google ratings.

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/jm_blue_logo.jpg

Ruko Priority Launches U11MINI 4K Triple Battery Combo: 8K Photo Imaging Meets Pocket-Sized Portability

Sub-250g mini pocket drone delivers 8K pictures and 4K/30fps videos, triple-battery combo for 96-minute flight time, and professional stabilization.

HONG KONG, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ruko today announced the global pre-order launch of its U11MINI 4K Triple Battery Combo (Fly More Combo), redefining portable imaging for creators and adventurers. The Ruko U11MINI 4K weighs less than 250g and is designed for life on the go. There’s no need for training or examinations in most countries and regions.

Professional Imaging, Minimal Footprint

The Ruko U11MINI 4K is equipped with a 48MP 1/2″ CMOS sensor, delivering stunning 8K pictures and 4K/30fps videos. A mini pocket-sized design yet equipped with powerful imaging capabilities. Its dual stabilization system combines a 3-axis brushless gimbal with electronic image stabilization (EIS) for ultra-smooth footage. Featuring four fold positioning system—GPS Positioning, Barometric Altitude Hold, Optical Flow Positioning, and TOF Sensor—it ensures precise navigation and smooth landing. In addition, the drone supports an impressive 20,000ft long-distance digital image transmission for stable and smooth filming. This powerful hardware promises that the mini pocket-sized drone offers outstanding imaging capabilities.

Ruko U11MINI 4K Drone
Ruko U11MINI 4K Drone

Extended Performance Redefined

Three intelligent batteries provide a total flight time of 96 minute— 32 minutes per battery with optimized power management.

In addition, the U11MINI 4K is packed with advanced features that take the flying experience to the next level, including Smart Return, Route Rules, Point of Interest, and GPS Follow Mode. The GPS Follow Mode ensures precise tracking of moving subjects, such as athletes or vehicles. With the U11MINI 4K, the creative possibilities are truly limitless.

Availability & Launch Offers

Pre-orders begin on April 2, 2025, exclusively at www.Ruko.net, with the first 100 customers receiving a FREE 1-Year Care Refresh Plan. Global retail availability follows on April 15 through Amazon and TikTok Shop.

About Ruko

Ruko is dedicated to designing safe, easy-to-use, and fun products. Ruko offers something suitable for everyone.For drone enthusiasts, beginners and children,it can be the ideal companion for happy family moments.

Follow @Ruko-toy on YouTube and @droneexplorer_x on TikTok for more information.

#RukoU11MINI4K #MiniPocketDrone #RukoDrone

Media Contact: pr@rukotoy.com

Frontier AI Moneyball Reveals New Generation of Talent

Zeki Data has identified the top 2,000 individuals specialising in boundary-pushing research and engineering globally and assessed their future innovation potential— including undervalued players overlooked by talent scouts.

LONDON, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Zeki Data, a UK-based alternative data company that provides high-precision R&D talent intelligence, has identified the ‘players’ who will develop the next generation of Frontier AI models.

Released today, AI Moneyball is a free Zeki Data briefing on where the top Frontier AI talent is today, what makes them stand out and where to find this new, emerging talent.

‘We can see precisely who the next wave of Frontier AI individuals is to lead agentic AI innovation and other vertical market growth,’ said Tom Hurd, Zeki Data CEO & Co-founder. ‘The current Frontier AI cohort significantly outperforms its peers, and we know which players companies need to attract to keep hitting innovation home runs.’

How Does Zeki Know?

Zeki Data compared a cohort of the top 2,000 individuals behind the creation of the most powerful Fronter AI models outside China against a cohort of 30,000 with the same areas of expertise in AI but who were not selected or did not choose to work on Frontier AI models.

Zeki Data tracked and evaluated the two cohorts’ progress over 10 years using a proprietary scoring system based on more than 50 variables. Zeki Data’s variables measure their areas of expertise, innovation track record, career positioning, skills, influence and reputation amongst peers.

The results paint a picture of an increasingly concentrated set of elite performers
in AI.

The Frontier AI cohort’s distinctive behaviour is outlined in detail for free in Zeki Data’s AI Moneyball, including:

  • Top Expertise Areas: The cohort’s areas of expertise are highly concentrated in eight main specialisations in AI out of over 100 categorised by Zeki Data.
  • Top Employer Countries: The US leads as expected, but European and Asian countries make the list alongside the UK, Canada and Australia.
  • Top Three Talent Characteristics: There are education and career experiences that are consistent across the Frontier AI cohort of 2,000 and lacking in the comparison cohort of 30,000.

AI Moneyball identifies the difference between Power Hitters, Contact Hitters and Opposite Field Hitters in the major league of Frontier AI. Zeki Data details which companies are leading or lagging and the impact of data-driven talent decisions.

Additional R&D talent insights and the full AI Moneyball briefing are available at www.zekidata.com.