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Akeso Enrolled First Patient in The Phase III Clinical Trial of Ivonescimab in Combination with Chemotherapy for First-Line Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

HONG KONG, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) today announced the company has successfully enrolled the first patient in its multicenter, randomized, double-blind Phase III clinical trial of ivonescimab in combination with chemotherapy for first-line treatment for unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (HARMONi-BC1/AK112-308). Ivonescimab is a first-in-class PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody independently developed by the company.

HARMONi-BC1/AK112-308 study is led by Professor Xu Binghe, a renowned breast cancer expert and academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, from the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences. Preliminary efficacy data presented at the 2024 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Annual Meeting demonstrated that ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy showed significant therapeutic efficacy and also exhibited a favorable safety profile, underscoring its clinical potential for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic TNBC.

Akeso has strategically positioned ivonescimab within a comprehensive development plan, aiming to reshape the landscape of cancer immunotherapy and establish a new global standard of care. Ivonescimab, in combination with chemotherapy, has been approved in China for the treatment of EGFR-TKI-resistant, non-squamous NSCLC. The New Drug Application (sNDA) for ivonescimab monotherapy as a first-line treatment for PD-L1-positive NSCLC (in comparison to pembrolizumab) is currently under review and has been granted priority status in China.

Three international multicenter Phase III clinical trials, led by our partner Summit Therapeutics, are progressing efficiently or are being initiated:

  • The HARMONi study, an international multicenter Phase III clinical trial evaluating ivonescimab in combination with chemotherapy for non-squamous NSCLC with progression after third-generation EGFR-TKI treatment, has had patient enrollment completed and has received Fast Track Designation (FTD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),
  • The HARMONi-3 study, an international multicenter Phase III clinical trial comparing ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy as first-line treatment for both squamous and non-squamous NSCLC (versus pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy),
  • The HARMONi-7 study, an international multicenter Phase III clinical trial evaluating ivonescimab monotherapy as first-line treatment for PD-L1 high-expressing NSCLC (versus pembrolizumab).

Several Phase III clinical trials are progressing efficiently or are being initiated in China, including:

  • Ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy as first-line treatment for squamous NSCLC (vs. tislelizumab combined with chemotherapy, HARMONi-6/AK112-306),
  • Ivonescimab combined with chemotherapy as first-line treatment for biliary tract cancer (vs. durvalumab combined with chemotherapy, HARMONi-GI1/AK112-309),
  • Ivonescimab combined with AK117 (CD47) as first-line treatment for PD-L1 positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (vs. pembrolizumab, SOLO-10/AK117-302),
  • First-line treatment for pancreatic cancer (HARMONi-GI2/AK112-310),
  • First-line treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (HARMONi-BC1/AK112-308).

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 22 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 11 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific antibody-drug conjugates). Additionally, 5 new drugs are commercially available, and 5 new drugs across 7 indications are currently under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin, and X (formerly Twitter).

 

CNOOC Limited Brings On-stream Luda 5-2 North Oilfield Phase II Development Project

HONG KONG, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CNOOC Limited (the “Company”, SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) today announces that Luda 5-2 North Oilfield Phase II Development Project has commenced production.

The project is located in the central part of the Bohai Sea, with an average water depth of approximately 30 meters. The main production facilities include 1 new auxiliary production platform and 1 production wellhead platform. A total of 29 development wells are planned to be commissioned, including 28 production wells and 1 water source well. The project is expected to achieve a peak production of approximately 6,700 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2026. The oil property is heavy crude.

Luda 5-2 North Oilfield is the first oilfield to produce from super heavy oil reservoirs through thermal recovery in China. Its Phase I Project had already commenced production in 2022. CNOOC Limited made major technological breakthroughs in this project and significantly enhanced the development efficiency of offshore super heavy oil. The Phase II Project will further tap the resources of the oilfield. Through optimized Jet Pump Injection-Production Technology, the project realized efficient and economic development of heavy crude, which could further enhance the Company’s energy supply capacity.

CNOOC Limited holds 100% interest in this project and is the operator.

— End —

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words “expect”, “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “objective”, “ongoing”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “should”, “believe”, “plans”, “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company’s expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company’s price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu
Media & Public Relations
CNOOC Limited
Tel: +86-10-8452-6641
Fax: +86-10-8452-1441
E-mail: mr@cnooc.com.cn 

Mr. Bunny Lee
Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group
Tel: +852 3150 6707
Fax: +852 3150 6728
E-mail: cnooc.hk@pordahavas.com

 

 

MBK Partners-Young Poong Submit Shareholder Proposals for Korea Zinc’s Annual General Meeting

Key Proposals:

  • Appointment of a Temporary Chair
  • Full Cancellation of Treasury Shares
  • Cash Dividend of KRW 7,500 per Common Share & Reclassification of Discretionary Reserves
  • Election of Up to 17 Directors

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MBK Partners and Young Poong, the largest shareholders of Korea Zinc, have formally submitted a set of shareholder proposals ahead of the company’s upcoming annual general meeting (AGM) in March. The proposals address key governance and shareholder return measures, including (i) appointing a temporary chair, (ii) canceling all treasury shares, (iii) distributing a cash dividend of KRW 7,500 per common share, (iv) reclassifying discretionary reserves to retained earnings, and (v) electing between 5 and 17 directors, significantly expanding the board. The first proposal put forward by Youngpoong-MBK Partners is the appointment of a temporary chair.

Strengthening Governance: Call for a Temporary Chair and Treasury Share Cancellation

MBK Partners-Young Poong’s proposal for a temporary chair is rooted in governance concerns following the disruption of Korea Zinc’s extraordinary general meeting (EGM) on January 23.

The cancellation of treasury shares has also been prioritized. Despite previous public commitments by Korea Zinc Chairman Choi Yun Beom to cancel treasury shares, the company has yet to execute the cancellation of over 12% of its shares, more than three months after the expiration of the mandatory tender offer period.

A spokesperson for MBK Partners-Young Poong stated, “There is a significant risk that treasury shares will be disposed of rather than canceled. The failure to honor public and legal commitments to cancel these shares could result in their sale to friendly shareholders or use for selective interests, ultimately eroding shareholder value and undermining Korea Zinc’s corporate governance.”

Enhancing Shareholder Returns: Dividend Proposal and Financial Transparency

As part of its commitment to consistent shareholder returns, MBK Partners-Young Poong has proposed a cash dividend of KRW 7,500 per common share for the 51st fiscal year. Including the interim dividend, the total payout would amount to KRW 17,500 per share—below the KRW 20,000 per share paid in the 49th fiscal year. Given that Korea Zinc’s earnings through Q3 2023 exceeded the previous year’s performance, the proposed dividend is expected to fall short of the payout ratio for the 50th fiscal year.

Concerns regarding financial transparency have also been raised. On February 5, the day after the shareholder proposals were submitted, Korea Zinc disclosed preliminary earnings, reporting a 15.6% year-over-year increase in operating profit for 2024 but a 22.1% decline in net profit due to a fourth-quarter loss. The announcement cited non-operating losses of KRW 200-300 billion, a figure MBK Partners-Young Poong considers inconsistent with operational performance. The shareholders plan to request further clarification on this discrepancy.

Board Restructuring Proposal: Conditional Expansion to Up to 17 Directors

MBK Partners and Young Poong have proposed the appointment of new directors to establish an independent and professional board at Korea Zinc. The number of director appointments will be conditional on the outcome of the ongoing injunction case regarding the suspension of resolutions passed at the extraordinary general meeting (EGM).

If both Agenda 1-1 (cumulative voting) and Agenda 1-2 (board size cap of 19 directors) are suspended, MBK Partners and Young Poong propose appointing a total of 14 directors, including five replacements for outgoing directors and nine additional new directors. The proposed candidates are:

  • Non-executive Directors: Sung-du Kang, Kwang-il Kim
  • Independent Directors: Kwang-seok Kwon, Myung-jun Kim, Soo-jin Kim, Yong-jin Kim, Jae-sub Kim, Hyun-chul Byun, Ho-sang Son, Seok-heon Yoon, Deuk-hong Lee, Chang-hwa Jung, Jun-beom Chun, Ik-tae Hong

If the injunction suspends only Agenda 1-2 (board size cap of 19 directors) while maintaining the validity of Agenda 1-1 (cumulative voting), MBK Partners and Young Poong propose appointing 17 directors. The proposed candidates in this case are:

  • Non-executive Directors: Sung-du Kang, Kwang-il Kim, Jung-hwan Kim, Young-ho Cho
  • Independent Directors: Kwang-seok Kwon, Myung-jun Kim, Soo-jin Kim, Yong-jin Kim, Jae-sub Kim, Hyun-chul Byun, Ho-sang Son, Seok-heon Yoon, Deuk-hong Lee, Chang-hwa Jung, Jun-beom Chun, Ik-tae Hong, Tae-sung Kim

If both Agenda 1-1 (cumulative voting) and Agenda 1-2 (board size cap of 19 directors) remain in effect, MBK Partners and Young Poong propose appointing five directors to replace those whose terms have expired. The proposed candidates are:

  • Non-executive Directors: Jung-hwan Kim, Young-ho Cho
  • Independent Directors: Tae-sung Kim, Yong-ho Shin, Chul-ki Kim

A representative from MBK Partners-Young Poong emphasized, “As the largest shareholder, we are committed to restoring governance integrity and protecting shareholder interests. We aim to establish an independent, professional board that will enhance both corporate and shareholder value.”

Commitment to Restoring Corporate Integrity

MBK Partners-Young Poong’s shareholder proposals reflect a broader effort to improve corporate governance, financial transparency, and shareholder value at Korea Zinc. As the AGM approaches, the shareholders reaffirm their commitment to ensuring a fair, independent, and shareholder-aligned board composition while advocating for transparent financial management and responsible capital allocation.

Contact

Seikyu Hong
sk.hong@mbkpartnerslp.com 

Mindsprint Expands Global Footprint in Australia to Bring Cutting-edge IT Solutions and Services

SYDNEY, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mindsprint, a leading differentiated technology solutions company known for its innovative and purpose-built solutions, today announced the opening of its ANZ office in Sydney, Australia. This expansion reinforces Mindsprint’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge IT solutions and services to clients across diverse sectors, including Food and Agriculture, Retail and Consumer Packaged Goods, Manufacturing, and Life Sciences.

Mindsprint Expands Global Footprint in Australia to Bring Cutting-edge IT Solutions and Services
Mindsprint Expands Global Footprint in Australia to Bring Cutting-edge IT Solutions and Services

Headquartered in Singapore, Mindsprint has established a robust presence in the enterprise customer segment, with state-of-the-art delivery centers in Chennai and Bengaluru. The addition of the Australian office enhances the company’s ability to effectively serve regional clients and drive business transformation through advanced technology solutions like Data Analytics, AI, SAP Transformation, Intelligent Automation, and Supply Chain Optimization to meet the unique needs of the market.

Suresh Sundararajan, Co-founder and CEO, Mindsprint, said, “We are excited to announce this strategic move as a key step in our global growth strategy, highlighting the substantial opportunities for managed services in the region. As businesses increasingly focus on their core competencies, we believe there is significant potential for growth. Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome Amit Bassi as Chairman for Mindsprint ANZ. With 30 years of experience, Amit brings a wealth of knowledge in driving business transformation and spearheading innovative initiatives in products, platforms, and services.”

Amit Bassi, President & Managing Partner, Mindsprint ANZ, said, “Mindsprint’s expansion reiterates our commitment to invest in the ANZ region. By building a talented local team and harnessing our global expertise, we aim to empower businesses to reach their full potential. Fuelled by advancements in digital, automation, AI solutions, and modernization, the Australian IT services market is projected to grow by 9.5% over the next five years*. This opportunity places us in a unique strategic position to create value for customers in this dynamic environment.”

Mindsprint has over 3000 employees, with a presence across the US, UK, Singapore, India, Middle East, and Africa. Mindsprint’s industry-agnostic Technology, Cybersecurity, and Business Process Services and solutions are adaptable to a broad industry spectrum, cutting across the supply chain, sustainability, smart manufacturing, procurement, spend analytics, enterprise applications, and more. With this move, Mindsprint aims to drive innovation and build trusted relationships with clients in Australia, New Zealand, and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

*Source: IT Services Industry Forecast 2024-31 Report by Industry ARC

About Mindsprint

Mindsprint’s purpose is to reimagine business with talent, technology, and insights-driven services and solutions. With a proven track record of two decades, enabling global organizations in their business and technology transformation journey, Mindsprint is a differentiated digital and business transformation partner with offerings ranging from digital transformation solutions to enterprise technology, business process services, and cybersecurity solutions. Powered by 3000 employees, they are headquartered in Singapore with a significant presence in India (Chennai and Bengaluru), the U.S., and the UK. Mindsprint has also been recognized as a Great Place to Work Certified™ company that combines talent, technology, and insights to reimagine business and technology transformation.

Mindsprint is a part of the Olam Group, a leading food and agribusiness supplying food ingredients, feed, and fiber to over 22,000 customers worldwide. It is supported by a global team of more than 82,000 employees across more than 60 countries. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, Olam Group currently ranks among the top 30 largest primary listed companies in terms of market capitalization on SGX-ST. Since June 2020, Olam Group has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series, a global sustainable investment index series developed by FTSE Russell, following a rigorous assessment of Olam’s supply chain activities, impact on the environment, and governance transparency. Mindsprint is an independent digital solutions and business services provider that continues to support Olam and the entities while also focusing on new customers.

More information on Olam can be found at www.olamgroup.com and Mindsprint at www.mindsprint.com | in.linkedin.com/company/mindsprint

 

 

Akamai selected as strategic cloud computing provider by one of the world’s largest technology companies, with a multi-year commitment to spend over $100M on cloud infrastructure services

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online, today announced it has closed a multi-year strategic usage agreement with one of the world’s largest technology companies. Under the terms of the deal, over $100M will be spent on Akamai’s full-stack cloud computing capabilities.

The customer will have the flexibility to leverage Akamai’s full portfolio to manage, deliver, and secure data to augment and improve its own infrastructure services.

“Technology platforms with a massive global presence require sophisticated and reliable cloud services,” said Akamai COO and GM, Cloud Technology Group, Adam Karon. “Akamai provides the scale this customer requires along with ultra-low latency performance to help ensure that every user has the best experience possible no matter where they are in the world.”

Akamai will deploy managed Kubernetes clusters in secured virtual private cloud (VPC) environments, load-balance user traffic, and apply integrated application and network security together on Akamai Cloud to enable optimal performance at more attractive cloud economics. These capabilities will help to ensure an excellent experience for users while enabling the customer to manage traffic and data locally.

About Akamai
Akamai is the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online. Our market-leading security solutions, superior threat intelligence, and global operations team provide defense-in-depth to safeguard enterprise data and applications everywhere. Akamai’s full-stack cloud computing solutions deliver performance and affordability on the world’s most distributed platform. Global enterprises trust Akamai to provide the industry-leading reliability, scale, and expertise they need to grow their business with confidence. Learn more at akamai.com and akamai.com/blog, or follow Akamai Technologies on X and LinkedIn.

Akamai Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act

This press release contains statements that are not statements of historical fact and constitute forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements about Akamai’s capabilities and the expected benefits of the transaction to Akamai, the customer and its users. Each of the forward-looking statements is subject to change as a result of various important factors, many of which are beyond the company’s control, including, but not limited to: Akamai being unable to achieve the anticipated benefits of the transaction; Akamai’s capabilities failing to meet expectations, including due to defects, security breaches, delays in performance or other similar problems; effects of competition, including pricing pressure and changing business models; impact of macroeconomic trends, including economic uncertainty, turmoil in the financial services industry, the effects of inflation, rising and fluctuating interest rates, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, securities market volatility and monetary supply fluctuations; continuing supply chain and logistics costs, constraints, changes or disruptions; defects or disruptions in Akamai’s products or IT systems, including cyber-attacks, data breaches or malware; changes to economic, political and regulatory conditions in the United States or internationally; and other factors that are discussed in the company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Akamai does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

CONTACT: Akamai PR, akamaiPR@akamai.com 

Montrose Environmental Group Announces the Appointment of Vincent Colman to Board of Directors and Audit Committee

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Montrose Environmental Group, Inc. (NYSE: MEG), a global environmental solutions company, announced the appointment of Mr. Vincent Colman to its Board of Directors and Audit Committee effective February 19, 2025.  

“The addition of Mr. Colman to our Board reflects our commitment to adding leaders in their respective fields who can help the company drive long-term value for our shareholders,” said Vijay Manthripragada, President and CEO, Montrose Environmental Group.  “His depth of expertise in leadership development, strategy development, and public company reporting and governance will be incredibly additive to the company. We’re excited to have him join our Board and look forward to the impact he will bring.”

Mr. Colman brings exceptional financial and accounting proficiency to the Board, which he developed at the highest levels during his nearly 40-year career with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), working with numerous Fortune 500 listed companies. His experience provides invaluable insight regarding public company reporting matters and leadership in business strategy and development. He also brings a deep understanding of how an audit committee interacts with the Board, management and external auditors. The Board affirmatively determined that Mr. Colman is independent and an audit committee financial expert.

“I’m honored to join the Montrose Board of Directors and contribute to its mission of helping to protect the air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil that feeds us,” said Mr. Colman. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic financial leadership can drive sustainable growth, and I look forward to applying that experience to support Montrose’s continued evolution. The company’s commitment to innovation and focus on organic growth aligns with my own belief in building long-term value, and I am excited to collaborate with the Board and leadership team to advance Montrose’s vision for the future.”

Mr. Colman has been a frequent speaker on emerging governance, regulatory, and professional issues. He is a former member of the Center for Audit Quality Executive Committee, AICPA’s Professional Practice Executive Committee, FASB’s Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council and PCAOB’s Standing Advisory Group. He received his B.S. in Accounting, magna cum laude, from St. John’s University.

About Montrose

Montrose is a leading environmental solutions company focused on supporting commercial and government organizations as they deal with the challenges of today and prepare for what’s coming tomorrow. With ~3400 employees across 100+ locations worldwide, Montrose combines deep local knowledge with an integrated approach to design, engineering, and operations, enabling Montrose to respond effectively and efficiently to the unique requirements of each project. From comprehensive air measurement and laboratory services to regulatory compliance, emergency response, permitting, engineering, and remediation, Montrose delivers innovative and practical solutions that keep its clients on top of their immediate needs – and well ahead of the strategic curve. For more information, visit www.montrose-env.com.

Contacts

Investor Relations:
Adrianne Griffin
(949) 988-3383
ir@montrose-env.com

Media Relations:
Tammy Hovey
(917) 520-2751
pr@montrose-env.com

 

Astreya Marks One Year in Hyderabad: A Milestone of Innovation, Growth, and Global Impact

HYDERABAD, India, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Astreya, a global leader in IT managed services and digital transformation, proudly celebrates the one-year anniversary of its Hyderabad facility. Over the past year, this strategic hub has driven breakthroughs in cloud computing, automation, and enterprise IT solutions, strengthening Astreya’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and talent development.

A Year of Unparalleled Growth

In just 12 months, the Hyderabad office has established itself as a center of excellence, delivering next-generation IT solutions while fostering a world-class work environment. Key achievements include:

  • Cutting-Edge Innovation Hub – Certified as an Offshore Development Center (ODC), the Hyderabad facility meets global standards for security, scalability, and seamless IT operations.
  • Advanced Security & Employee Well-Being – A 24/7 security infrastructure, ergonomic workspaces, and employee-first facilities ensure a dynamic, secure, and high-performance workplace.
  • Global Partnerships & Industry Leadership – Strengthened collaborations with technology giants, positioning Astreya at the forefront of AI-driven IT services.
  • Empowering Top Talent – Career growth initiatives, leadership training, and a workplace culture rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and continuous learning.
  • Expanding Opportunities for All – Accessibility upgrades, flexible policies, and engagement programs that support a collaborative, forward-thinking work environment.

A Vision for the Future

As Astreya continues to expand its global reach and technological footprint, the Hyderabad facility remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy.

Romil Bahl, CEO of Astreya, reflected on this milestone:

“Our Hyderabad team has been nothing short of extraordinary. The passion, innovation, and technical expertise here continue to fuel our global success. This facility is an engine for digital transformation, automation, and enterprise IT excellence. As we move forward, we are doubling down on our commitment to talent, technology, and the future of IT services.”

Celebrating One Year of Impact

To commemorate this achievement, Astreya hosted a two-day anniversary event on February 17-18, 2025, featuring:

  • Leadership Town Hall – Executives shared insights on Astreya’s growth trajectory and future innovation plans.
  • Employee Recognition & Team-Building – Honoring top performers through awards, interactive workshops, and networking sessions.
  • Cross-Team Collaborations – Strengthening synergy across global teams, accelerating AI and cloud-driven IT advancements.

About Astreya

Astreya is a global IT managed service provider, delivering technology solutions that help businesses scale, drive innovation, and streamline operations. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in San Jose, California, operating in over 35 countries, supporting some of the world’s most recognized companies. Astreya provides solutions across public, private, and hybrid clouds, data centers, and the modern workplace while leveraging AI automation across it all. Our mission is to empower organizations to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape by transforming the way they leverage technology to support their customers, empower their employees, and grow their business.

Learn more at www.astreya.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

Mars launches landmark global study program on pets’ contribution to human wellbeing

  • Mars announces intention to undertake world’s largest international study program into the human-animal bond and the role of cats and dogs in human mental health and wellbeing
  • The multi-year research program in partnership with leading academics will span over 35,000 people across more than 20 countries. It launches at a time of growing awareness of the global mental health crisis affecting millions1,2
  • Mars also unveils unique research and content partnership with Calm, a leading mental health company, to shine a light on pets and their role in human mental health and wellbeing

BRUSSELS, Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mars, Incorporated – the leading pet care business – has announced the launch of the Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS) program. PAWS is set to become the world’s largest, multi-year research program exploring the impact of cats and dogs on mental health and wellbeing, deepening our understanding of the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond.

Pet owner and their cat bonding: Mars launches landmark global study into the human-animal bond
Pet owner and their cat bonding: Mars launches landmark global study into the human-animal bond

Led by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in collaboration with leading academic institutions and experts, PAWS will examine the connection between pets and human mental health and wellbeing (including stress, anxiety, loneliness and overall wellbeing). The multi-disciplinary research program will engage over 35,000 people across 20+ countries in the initial phase and will continue to build over time. The program aims to bring deeper insight and scientific data into the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond, including how pets may enrich lives and how the bond contributes to the life of pets.

Loïc Moutault, President of Mars Petcare, said: “As a pet owner, I know firsthand the joy and comfort pets bring to our lives and there is increasing evidence that owning a pet or simply interacting with one can bring benefits to people of all ages and from all walks of life. We’re aiming to deliver on our Purpose: A Better World for Pets, because we believe pets make our lives better, and through this study program we aim to provide deeper, science-backed understanding of the mutual bond between people and pets.”

Over the lifetime of the study program the collaborative research will include work with academic institutions and partners including Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, University of Maryland School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liverpool, University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, YouGov and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, with the aim to deliver novel research and new insights.

Dr Maggie O’Haire, Associate Dean for Research at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine said: “Both the breadth and depth of this study program promise to deliver novel data and greater insight into something many people instinctively feel – that the bond between pet and pet owner is a powerful and unique part of the human experience. We are proud to continue to collaborate with Mars and its world-leading research institute as it embarks on this transformative work.”

As part of the program, Mars is also partnering with Calm, a leading mental health company. The collaboration combines Calm’s expertise in mental wellness with Mars’ leading research into the human-animal bond and will encompass research and content through 2025.

Dr. Chris Mosunic, Chief Clinical Officer, Calm said: “Pets are daily sources of calm, joy, and connection. Through our partnership with Mars, we aim to understand these relationships better and illuminate the unique role pets play in mental health and wellbeing, supported by new in-app resources.”

Wellbeing has become an increasingly vital priority with 45% of people across 31 countries identifying mental health as their top health concern.2 At the same time, global anxiety and stress levels are rising, affecting over 301 million people worldwide.1 A growing body of evidence shows that pets can have a positive impact on mental health, underscoring the powerful potential of human-animal interaction to enhance wellbeing.3,4 With 56% of people worldwide owning pets and a global pet population of 1 billion, understanding the universal and transformative bond between humans and animals has never been more important.3

Mars advocates for the essential role companion animals play in our lives and is committed to tackling issues such as pet homelessness to keep pets and people together. Over the next five years, Mars aims to support millions of vulnerable pets worldwide alongside a coalition of dedicated partners and believes a deeper understanding of the role pets play in people’s lives will contribute to improving the lives of pets and the people who care for them.

Mars is a global leader in pet care, spanning comprehensive veterinary care (including: AniCura, BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, Linnaeus and VCA™), nutrition (including PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, and WHISKAS®), breakthrough programs in veterinary diagnostics (ANTECH®), wearable health monitoring and pet parent platforms. With over 100,000 Associates helping pets, their owners and pet professionals in more than 130 countries.

For more information on PAWS program, visit: www.mars-petsandwellbeing.com

About Mars, Incorporated

Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a $50bn+ family-owned business, our diverse and expanding portfolio of leading pet care products and veterinary services support pets all around the world and our quality snacking and food products delight millions of people every day. We produce some of the world’s best-loved brands including ROYAL CANIN®, PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, CESAR®, DOVE®, EXTRA®, M&M’s®, SNICKERS® and BEN’S ORIGINAL™. Our international networks of pet hospitals, including BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, VCA™ and ANICURA™ span preventive, general, specialty, and emergency veterinary care, and our global veterinary diagnostics business ANTECH® offers breakthrough capabilities in pet diagnostics. The Mars Five Principles — Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency and Freedom — inspire our 150,000 Associates to act every day to help create a better world for people, pets and the planet. 

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com.

Join us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Waltham Petcare Science Institute

Waltham Petcare Science Institute has been advancing pet health and nutrition for more than 60 years. Today, we research new ways to predict, manage and prevent disease, discovering insights and advances that proactively help pets live happier, healthier lives. Waltham collaborates with leading external scientific experts and partners to drive innovation creating a better world for pets based on scientific evidence. Building on a strong legacy of human-animal interaction research, we continue to advance scientific understanding of the relationships between pets and people.

For more information, visit: www.waltham.com. Join us on LinkedIn.

About Calm

Calm is a consumer mental health company on a mission to support everyone on every step of their mental health journey. With the #1 app to help you sleep more, stress less and live mindfully as well as a growing library of digital, evidence-based mental health programs, Calm offers trusted support for individuals and organizations alike. Our flagship consumer app provides personalized content and activities – featuring a range of experts and beloved celebrity voices. Our workplace and healthcare solutions take a consumer-friendly approach to mental health support delivered on a HIPAA-compliant platform to drive positive health and business outcomes. Named a TIME100 Most Influential Company, Calm has more than 150 million downloads and supports more than 3,500 organizations across seven languages and 190 countries.

To learn more, visit calm.com.

References

  1. World Health Organization, Anxiety Disorders, 2023
  2. IPSOS, Ipsos Health Service Report 2024: Mental Health seen as the biggest Health issue, 2024
  3. Mars, Mars Global Pet Parent Study, 2024
  4. Gitanjali E. Gnanadesikan et al. Glucocorticoid response to naturalistic interactions between children and dogs. Hormones and Behavior. Volume 161, May 2024
Pet owner and their dog: Mars announces plans for world’s largest international study program into the role of cats and dogs in human mental health and wellbeing
Pet owner and their dog: Mars announces plans for world’s largest international study program into the role of cats and dogs in human mental health and wellbeing