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Agthia Delivers Strong Q1 2026, with Net Profit Growth of 12.5%

ABU DHABI, UAE, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agthia Group PJSC (AGTHIA:UH), one of the region’s leading food and beverage companies, today announced a strong performance for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting disciplined execution across its diversified portfolio, and its ability to maintain operational continuity amid external headwinds.

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Agthia Group
Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Agthia Group

Group Net Revenue rose 3.3% year-on-year to AED 1.3 billion, EBITDA grew 4.1% to AED 193.3 million, while Net Profit increased 12.5% to AED 96.9 million, supported by disciplined execution, stronger margin delivery, and improving operating performance across key businesses. Results of the quarter were shaped by strong execution in core segments, continued progress across transformation projects, and the Group’s ability to respond quickly to a more complex operating environment.

Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Agthia’s Board, commented: “The first quarter reinforced the importance of resilience, discipline and long-term perspective in navigating a more complex operating environment. Agthia’s performance reflects the strength of the Group’s fundamentals, the relevance of its role in supporting the broader food security agenda, and the focus with which it continues to execute against its strategic priorities.”

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director & CEO of Agthia Group, added: “Our first-quarter performance reflects disciplined execution across the business, the strength of our diversified portfolio, and the commitment of our teams across the Group. In a complex regional context, we responded with agility, maintained uninterrupted supply, and continued to manage our operations with focus and consistency. At the same time, the transformation actions underway across the Group are beginning to translate more clearly into performance, supporting improved operating efficiency, stronger margin delivery, and a more resilient earnings profile. We remain firmly focused on our long-term priorities and confident in our ability to continue strengthening Agthia’s position as a leading food and beverage company.”

Water & Food remained a key growth driver during the quarter, supported by strong performance in UAE bottled water and Home and Office Services. Protein & Frozen also showed encouraging progress as transformation efforts continued and the ramp-up of the Group’s Saudi protein facility gathered pace, with Phase II now operational and adding capacity. Agri-Business further supported Group performance, delivering resilient underlying results alongside its participation in UAE food security-related programs, while Snacking continued to move through a reset focused on strengthening future growth and margin potential. In Q1 2026, the Group also delivered a 22.5% increase in e-commerce revenue, which now accounted for 7.2% of underlying revenue.

About Agthia

Agthia Group PJSC is a leading Abu Dhabi-headquartered food and beverage company and part of ADQ. With a diversified portfolio of more than 20 trusted brands across Water & Food, Snacks, Protein & Frozen, and Agri-Business, the Group operates across seven countries and serves consumers in over 60 markets worldwide. With a workforce exceeding 12,000 employees, Agthia combines scale, strong operational capabilities, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability to create long-term value across the food and beverage value chain.

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Agthia Q1 Results EN
Agthia Q1 Results EN

 

 

Agthia Delivers Strong Q1 2026, with Net Profit Growth of 12.5%

ABU DHABI, UAE, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agthia Group PJSC (AGTHIA:UH), one of the region’s leading food and beverage companies, today announced a strong performance for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting disciplined execution across its diversified portfolio, and its ability to maintain operational continuity amid external headwinds.

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Agthia Group
Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Agthia Group

Group Net Revenue rose 3.3% year-on-year to AED 1.3 billion, EBITDA grew 4.1% to AED 193.3 million, while Net Profit increased 12.5% to AED 96.9 million, supported by disciplined execution, stronger margin delivery, and improving operating performance across key businesses. Results of the quarter were shaped by strong execution in core segments, continued progress across transformation projects, and the Group’s ability to respond quickly to a more complex operating environment.

Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Agthia’s Board, commented: “The first quarter reinforced the importance of resilience, discipline and long-term perspective in navigating a more complex operating environment. Agthia’s performance reflects the strength of the Group’s fundamentals, the relevance of its role in supporting the broader food security agenda, and the focus with which it continues to execute against its strategic priorities.”

Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director & CEO of Agthia Group, added: “Our first-quarter performance reflects disciplined execution across the business, the strength of our diversified portfolio, and the commitment of our teams across the Group. In a complex regional context, we responded with agility, maintained uninterrupted supply, and continued to manage our operations with focus and consistency. At the same time, the transformation actions underway across the Group are beginning to translate more clearly into performance, supporting improved operating efficiency, stronger margin delivery, and a more resilient earnings profile. We remain firmly focused on our long-term priorities and confident in our ability to continue strengthening Agthia’s position as a leading food and beverage company.”

Water & Food remained a key growth driver during the quarter, supported by strong performance in UAE bottled water and Home and Office Services. Protein & Frozen also showed encouraging progress as transformation efforts continued and the ramp-up of the Group’s Saudi protein facility gathered pace, with Phase II now operational and adding capacity. Agri-Business further supported Group performance, delivering resilient underlying results alongside its participation in UAE food security-related programs, while Snacking continued to move through a reset focused on strengthening future growth and margin potential. In Q1 2026, the Group also delivered a 22.5% increase in e-commerce revenue, which now accounted for 7.2% of underlying revenue.

About Agthia

Agthia Group PJSC is a leading Abu Dhabi-headquartered food and beverage company and part of ADQ. With a diversified portfolio of more than 20 trusted brands across Water & Food, Snacks, Protein & Frozen, and Agri-Business, the Group operates across seven countries and serves consumers in over 60 markets worldwide. With a workforce exceeding 12,000 employees, Agthia combines scale, strong operational capabilities, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability to create long-term value across the food and beverage value chain.

For all our latest updates, follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram

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Agthia Q1 Results EN
Agthia Q1 Results EN

 

 

With participation from more than 127 nationalities, the Islamic University of Madinah continues to build a global knowledge force, creating impact across continents

MADINAH, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In a scene that combines academic mission with humanitarian values, the Islamic University of Madinah in Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its global presence through pioneering initiatives that reflect the depth of its impact on communities and reaffirm its role as a bridge for civilizational dialogue among nations. The 14th edition of the “Cultures and Peoples Festival” in 2026 serves as a practical extension of this mission, as the university campus transformed into a vibrant global platform under the slogan “The World is Here,” showcasing an unprecedented level of cultural and human diversity.

 

The video showcases highlights from the Festival of Cultures and Peoples, which was recently concluded at Islamic University of Madinah in Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

Over the course of ten days, participants from more than 90 countries came together, speaking over 60 languages and presenting more than 400 cultural activities in a multidimensional experience reflecting the meeting and diversity of civilizations. This diversity was not merely a cultural showcase, but a living embodiment of the university’s policy that succeeded in “breaking the ice” between students and their communities through an open educational environment that promotes understanding and closeness.

The significance of this experience becomes even more evident when linked to the university’s “Athar” project, which aims to track the journeys of its graduates around the world. Data indicates that 62% of the university’s students are the first generation in their families to pursue higher education, highlighting the university’s role in driving real developmental transformation within communities. The latest admitted class also included students from 127 nationalities, a clear indication of the institution’s global reach.

The university’s role extends beyond academic education to encompass the intellectual and professional development of students before they return to their home countries to contribute to national development, reflecting a human-centered model that prioritizes building individuals above all else. This vision has produced numerous success stories of pioneering graduates who have become influential leaders in their societies, contributing to the transfer of knowledge and the promotion of civilizational dialogue, particularly in non-Muslim countries.

The festival itself stands as a vivid reflection of this philosophy, embodying human diversity and a wide range of achievements while presenting a comprehensive picture of how individuals benefit professionally and how nations benefit from the university’s outcomes. The Saudi pavilion also served as a central highlight in showcasing national identity and presenting the achievements of Saudi Vision 2030, further strengthening the Kingdom’s global presence.

Ultimately, the Islamic University of Madinah affirms that its impact has reached four continents, not only through its graduates, but also through its cultural and academic initiatives that are reshaping the concept of education as a tool for human connection and sustainable development. It represents a model worthy of reflection and study at a time when the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to support the university as a platform for moderation and balance, and for its important role in promoting development and peace around the world.

GenScript Launches TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit, Delivering the Fastest Path to Antibodies in its Class

New kit offers researchers and development teams a meaningful advance in expression speed and output

BOSTON, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GenScript Biotech Corporation announced the launch of TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit, a next-generation antibody expression reagent designed to set a new benchmark for speed, performance, output and ease-of-use. One of the company’s largest global product launches to date, this kit targets the fast-growing expression reagent market, driven by high-throughput and AI-enabled research.

Introducing the TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit, a launchpad in every kit.
Introducing the TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit, a launchpad in every kit.

Producing research-grade antibodies and proteins is a foundational step in drug discovery and biologics development. The new kit brings GenScript’s proven protein-expression technology directly to the bench in a ready-to-use format, enabling labs of any size to generate high‑quality protein in as little as five business days. As a result, researchers can access reliable data sooner and make earlier, more confident decisions.

“TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit delivers outstanding performance and unmatched value, putting powerful innovation within reach of every lab working to advance science,” said GenScript’s Rotating CEO Sherry Shao. “By providing a launchpad to market, this kit helps bring new medicines to patients’ faster, when time matters most.”

The product debuted yesterday at the opening of the PEGS Summit in Boston, but attendees will have opportunities throughout the week to learn more and engage with the GenScript team. The Protein Expression Kit is available in two configurations:

  • Pro: Delivers high-yield protein expression in as little as 5 business days, designed for easy integration into existing workflows.
  • Prime (Licensed): Enhanced performance for teams seeking maximum speed, with results as early as Day 3 and even higher yields.

Early Feedback Supports Real-World Impact

Early adopters in the beta program have reported performance that is “best in class” for speed and value, demonstrating its real-world impact.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Performance Snapshot: How the Kit Compares

  • Redefines expression speed, providing Day 5 yields (or Day 3 for Prime) comparable to competitor Day 10 results, substantially shortening timelines and accelerating decision-making
  • Delivers higher yields with lower reagent input, improving overall cost efficiency and throughput
  • Produces up to three-fold higher yield(or 5-fold for Prime) after Protein A purification versus other market solutions
  • Features a proprietary highperforming cell line and optimized transfection system

_________________________________________________________________________________

For drug developers and research teams managing increasingly compressed discovery timelines, this performance translates into faster candidate selection, reduced time-to-data, and the capacity to validate more candidates as they move into experimental testing.

The launch represents the first phase of a broader innovation roadmap designed to drive continued industry leadership, with planned advances spanning next‑generation CHO cell line enhancements, improved transfection systems, and scalable, automation‑ready formats.

“By delivering higher-quality antibody expression with dramatically faster time-to-data, we are eliminating a critical bottleneck in drug discovery,” said Ray Chen, President of GenScript Life Science Group. “Designed for today’s complex molecules, this kit ensures reproducibility and seamless screen-to-scale translation, while enabling more designs to be tested at lower cost. For research teams working under aggressive discovery timelines, the real question isn’t whether to adopt this solution. It’s how quickly they choose to leverage it to redefine what’s possible.”

TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit is available immediately through GenScript’s direct sales channels and authorized distributors. To support early adoption, GenScript is offering introductory pricing for a limited time, along with technical support for onboarding and workflow optimization. Inventory is in place to support both domestic and international demand. For more information or pricing, visit the GenScript website.  

About GenScript

Founded in 2002 in New Jersey, GenScript Biotech Corporation accelerates innovation in biotech and healthcare by providing researchers and companies with the building blocks needed to develop groundbreaking treatments and products. As a cornerstone of the global life science ecosystem, GenScript actively collaborates with a diverse network of partners—from academic institutions to industry leaders—to co-create cutting-edge solutions that redefine service excellence. Guided by its mission to Make People and Nature Healthier Through Biotechnology, GenScript has become a trusted global partner with a team of 6,100+ employees, supporting over 200,000 customers across 100+ countries and regions, including the world’s Top 20 pharma companies. For more information: www.genscript.com

Media Contacts:

Kate Grusich
Senior Corporate Communications Manager
Katherina.Grusich@genscript.com 

Staff showcase the new TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit at the GenScript booth during the PEGS Summit in Boston.
Staff showcase the new TurboCHO™ Protein Expression Kit at the GenScript booth during the PEGS Summit in Boston.

 

 

Clayable Celebrates 8 Years of Bringing Creative Wellness and Pottery Experiences to Singapore

SINGAPORE, May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Local pottery studio Clayable is celebrating its 8th anniversary milestone after welcoming more than 10,000 participants through its pottery workshops, corporate events and private celebrations over the years.

As interest in hands-on creative activities continues to grow in Singapore, Clayable aims to make pottery more accessible through beginner-friendly workshops and shared creative experiences.

Creating Accessible Pottery Experiences for Everyone

Founded with the vision of making pottery approachable and enjoyable for all experience levels, Clayable has become a popular destination for couples, families, young children and corporate teams looking for engaging and creative activities.

The studio specialises in beginner-friendly pottery workshops where participants are guided step-by-step throughout the shaping, designing and colouring process. Even first-time participants are able to complete the pottery shaping process within approximately one hour under the guidance of experienced trainers.

“Working with clay encourages people to slow down, stay present and enjoy the simple process of creating something with their hands,” said Mr Jiang, Founder of Clayable.

Pottery as a Therapeutic and Mindful Activity

With increasing awareness surrounding mental wellness and digital fatigue, pottery has gained popularity as a calming and grounding activity that allows participants to disconnect from screens and daily stress.

Clayable believes the tactile nature of clay offers participants a unique sensory experience that promotes relaxation and mindfulness.

“The cool, wet and malleable nature of clay creates a grounding experience that helps people feel more present and connected,” Mr Jiang added. “Whether it is a couple bonding session, a family activity or a corporate team-building workshop, pottery encourages creativity, patience and meaningful interaction.”

The studio also provides complimentary Chinese tea after workshop sessions, creating a more relaxing and enjoyable environment for participants to unwind after their activities.

Catering to Families, Couples and Corporate Team Building

Over the years, Clayable has hosted workshops and team-building sessions for organisations including Marina Bay Sands (MBS), Shopee, Dormakaba, National University of Singapore (NUS), National University Hospital (NUH), Health Promotion Board (HPB), 3M, MCCY, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Ministry of Education (MOE), Great Eastern, Manulife, Prudential, schools, community clubs and kindergartens.

In addition to corporate events, the studio frequently organises birthday celebrations and private group sessions for children, couples and families. Many birthday packages combine hands-on pottery activities with cake-cutting sessions, offering guests a unique and memorable celebration experience.

Clayable currently offers wheel-throwing and hand-building pottery workshops, as well as pottery painting, art jamming and hands-on Chinese tea experiences, catering to different creative interests and experience levels. Wheel throwing is often preferred by participants seeking a quicker and more structured pottery experience, while hand-building and pinch pottery sessions provide greater flexibility for personalised creations.

A Comfortable and Accessible Studio Experience

Located within Singapore’s business district area, Clayable offers convenient accessibility through nearby MRT stations and parking facilities, making it suitable for both individual visitors and larger corporate groups.

The studio’s comfortable and air-conditioned environment, combined with its approachable teaching style and customer-focused experience, has contributed to numerous positive five-star reviews across online platforms and social media channels.

Looking Ahead

As Clayable celebrates its eighth anniversary, the studio aims to continue promoting pottery as both a creative outlet and a relaxing creative activity for modern lifestyles.

By combining artistic expression, mindful engagement and social interaction, Clayable hopes to encourage more individuals and organisations in Singapore to embrace pottery as a way to reconnect, recharge and create lasting memories.

About Clayable

Clayable is a Singapore-based pottery studio offering beginner-friendly pottery workshops, pottery painting sessions and hands-on clay experiences for individuals, families, couples, schools and corporate groups. Established in 2018, the studio focuses on creating accessible, therapeutic and engaging pottery experiences that encourage mindfulness, self-expression and genuine connection through clay art.

Clayable conducts wheel-throwing and hand-building pottery workshops for participants of all skill levels, while also hosting corporate team-building activities, birthday celebrations and private group events.

For more information, visit: https://clayable.sg

L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE

TWELVE RAINFOREST-INSPIRED SCENTS CRAFTED BY L’ORÉAL LUXE IN COLLABORATION WITH REFIK ANADOL STUDIO AND THEIR LARGE NATURE MODEL, BECOME LIVING RESPONSIVE ARTWORKS AT THE WORLD’S FIRST OMNI-SENSORY MUSEUM OF AI ARTS.

LEVALLOIS-PERRET, France and LOS ANGELES, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On June 20, 2026, DATALAND, the world’s first omni-sensory Museum of AI Arts co-founded by Refik Anadol and Efsun Erkılıç, opens in Los Angeles. With five galleries spanning 25,000 square feet and boasting an unprecedented 1.5 billion pixels, the museum debuts with its inaugural exhibition, Machine Dreams: Rainforest. For this collaboration, L’Oréal Luxe makes history as DATALAND’s exclusive founding olfactory partner. Through innovative technology, twelve unique avant-garde olfactive imprints will be experienced by visitors as living scents, diffused in response to the artworks and each visitor’s presence, translating digital dreams into scented, lived experiences.

 

L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE

This bold alliance is the ultimate expression of L’Oréal Luxe’s “Culture de l’Écart”: the drive to think differently, bridge high technology with raw human emotion. In a world-first convergence of visual art and responsive olfactory, DATALAND introduces a new paradigm of polysensorial experience. While Refik Anadol uses advanced computing to visualize billions of data points, the L’Oréal Fragrance Métier relies on its unparalleled olfactory mastery to craft captivating scents. Both are artists pushing the boundaries of their respective mediums.

Drawing from Refik Anadol Studio’s Large Nature Model, L’Oréal Fragrance Métier leveraged its unique fragrance model to craft the twelve olfactive imprints, combining a singular expertise with an unparalleled level of innovation. Among them, Scent of Data blends clean musks and aldehydes to replicate the algorithmic pulsation of code, scenting the “mind” of the machine. Meanwhile, Scent of Rain delivers a hyper-realistic atmosphere of humid earth after rain, featuring the characteristic petrichor accord, headspace-captured, and earthy patchouli facets.

These scents are diffused through DATALAND’s innovative smart-diffuser devices that react to the artworks and the visitor’s presence. Reaffirming its unrivaled authority in luxury fragrance, L’Oréal Luxe moves scent out of the traditional bottle and into a permanent cultural institution. In this living museum, touch, taste, sight, sound, and scent amplify each other in a continuous, omni-sensory dialogue, triggering genuine emotions and profound memories.

“I have always deeply admired Refik Anadol’s visionary artistic work. I am incredibly proud that L’Oréal Luxe is collaborating with him on DATALAND placing olfaction at the very center of the museum and pushing the boundaries of unexpected Fragrance creation.” Cyril Chapuy, President, L’Oréal Luxe 

“Fragrance is the ultimate language of emotion, a direct bridge to the soul that transcends reason. In response to Refik and Efsun’s vision, our L’Oréal Fragrance Designers have shattered traditional boundaries to craft unfiltered sensory truths. Within DATALAND, we unveil the technical precision of our Métier through ‘immersive scents’ to leave a powerful, indelible emotional imprint.Karine Lebret, Fragrance Métier International Director, L’Oréal Groupe

This collaboration with L’Oréal Luxe is a fascinating breakthrough. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of what art can be. By combining artworks with a unique fragrance model, we are no longer just visualizing data, we are breathing life into it. I am thrilled to share this unique dialogue between human sensory experiences and machine intelligence with the world.” Refik Anadol, Media Artist & Co-Founder

“Collaborating across disciplines has always shaped how we think and create; it is inseparable from our way of being. To co-create with L’Oréal Luxe on this groundbreaking olfactory experience for DATALAND’s inaugural exhibition carries on our tradition of turning to fellow innovators to help realize our vision.” Efsun Erkılıç, Artist and Co-Founder

About L’Oréal Luxe

At L’Oréal Luxe, defying the rules is not just a belief; it’s our guiding principle. We see luxury beauty as a space of constant reinvention. Our mission is anchored in our unique “Culture de l’Ecart”, an approach that challenges the status quo to master the balance between heritage and audacious innovation. With an unparalleled portfolio of 30 iconic brands and 30,000 luxury experts, L’Oréal Luxe is the undisputed leader of luxury beauty, ensuring each brand preserves its unique DNA while accelerating growth.

Communication L’Oréal Luxe
Mickael Roux, Mickael.ROUX@loreal.com

 

L'ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:L’Oréal Luxe
L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:L’Oréal Luxe

 

L'ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe
L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe

 

L'ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe
L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe

 

L'ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe
L’ORÉAL LUXE AND DATALAND REVEAL EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP TO CREATE GROUNDBREAKING OLFACTORY ART EXPERIENCE.Credit:Alix Malka for L’Oréal Luxe

 

 

 

Knight-Hennessy Scholars announces 2026 cohort of 87 new scholars, the most global cohort to date

The 2026 cohort of Knight-Hennessy scholars represents 31 countries and 
45 graduate degree programs across Stanford University.

STANFORD, Calif., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) at Stanford University today announced its 2026 cohort of 87 new scholars. This ninth cohort is the most global to date, representing 31 countries with students who will pursue degrees in 45 graduate programs across all seven graduate schools at Stanford. For the first time ever, the cohort includes scholars with citizenship from Croatia, Portugal, United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars is a fully-endowed, multidisciplinary leadership development program for graduate students at Stanford University. Scholars, who come from around the globe, receive up to three years of financial support to pursue graduate studies at any of Stanford’s seven schools while engaging in experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders capable of taking on the world’s most difficult challenges.

“Each year, the Knight-Hennessy community of scholars grows stronger by including more disciplines, more nationalities, and more perspectives,” said John L. Hennessy, Stanford University president emeritus and the Shriram Family Director of Knight-Hennessy Scholars. “As a result, the collective capacity to take on the world’s most difficult challenges also increases.”

Through the King Global Leadership Program, which offers a wide range of workshops, lectures, projects, and experiences that complement scholars’ graduate studies, Knight-Hennessy scholars develop in their commitment to the greater good as they prepare to reach their leadership objectives.

“The magic of Knight-Hennessy Scholars happens when scholars explore beyond the constraints of their disciplines and develop tools and approaches that allow them to work across fields,” said Tina Seelig, executive director of Knight-Hennessy Scholars. “It is inspiring to watch the transformation from accomplished individuals to truly collaborative leaders.”

Among the 2026 scholars, 51 percent hold a non-U.S. passport. This year’s cohort includes a record high number of international scholars. Forty-seven percent of U.S. scholars identify as a person of color, and nine percent have served in the U.S. military. The scholars earned undergraduate degrees at 58 different institutions, including 23 international institutions and 21 institutions represented for the first time. Twenty-one percent are the first in their family to graduate from college. The ninth cohort brings the total number of Knight-Hennessy scholars to 682 to date, beginning with the inaugural cohort enrolled in 2018.

The application for the 2027 cohort of Knight-Hennessy Scholars will open June 1, 2026, and is due October 6, 2026. Prospective scholars can attend information sessions to learn about the community, the leadership development program, and the admission process. Knight-Hennessy Scholars has no quotas or restrictions based on region, college or university, field of study, or career aspiration.

Announced in 2016 and launched in 2018, Knight-Hennessy Scholars is named for Phil Knight, MBA ’62, philanthropist and co-founder of Nike Inc., and John Hennessy, chairman of Alphabet Inc. and president emeritus of Stanford (2000-2016). Knight-Hennessy Scholars is the largest, university-wide, fully endowed graduate fellowship in the world. Learn more at kh.stanford.edu.

G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo 2026 Opens Today: Industry Leaders Gather in Macau to Unlock Digital Innovation for Gaming, Entertainment and Integrated Resorts


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 May 2026 – G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo opens today at The Venetian Macao, bringing together global leaders across gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts as digital innovation continues to reshape the industry’s next phase of growth.

Taking place from May 12-14, 2026, the co-located events are expected to welcome 8,000 industry professionals from over 90 countries and regions. Spanning more than 30,000 sqm, the exhibition features over 150 brands showcasing next-generation technologies, immersive solutions, and digital infrastructure across the sector.

Against the backdrop of an estimated ~8% annual growth trajectory in Asia’s integrated resorts sector, according to a 2025 report by Research and Markets, the event underscores the region’s accelerating role as a global growth engine, where technology innovation and rising demand are increasingly converging.

Reflecting this shift, “Asia’s integrated resorts sector is entering a pivotal phase of transformation, as markets across the region continue to evolve with a broader mix of tourism, entertainment and lifestyle experiences,” said Yip Je Choong, Senior Vice President, Commercial, APAC, RX (Reed Exhibitions). “With G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo co-located, we are creating a platform that brings together stakeholders across the value chain to support innovation, collaboration and long-term, sustainable growth.”

Across the exhibition floor and conference programs, key industry leaders are actively engaging with peers to exchange insights and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

Leading Industry Figures Mark Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony, held in the Expo Hall, officially marked the commencement of G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo 2026, with senior industry figures from across gaming, hospitality, and entertainment in attendance.

Guests included: (List to be provided)

Their participation reflects the industry’s sustained engagement and long-term commitment to advancing innovation across integrated resorts, gaming, and entertainment ecosystems.

Conference Programs Led by Global Industry Voices

G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo each feature dedicated three-day programs led by senior industry figures addressing technologies, regulations, and market forces shaping the sector’s future.

On Tuesday, May 12, Mr. Grant Chum, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Sands China Ltd., delivers the opening keynote for G2E Asia Conference and Asian IR Summit, setting the strategic tone with insights into global industry trends shaping gaming and entertainment.

On Thursday, May 14, Mr. Mario Yau Kwan Ho, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of NIP Group INC., and Co-owner of Boston Celtics, is set to present a keynote for Asian IR Summit, offering perspectives on global market shifts and the evolving integrated resorts landscape.

Across both programs, speakers include:

  • Mr. Adrian Lee, Head of Sales, Google Customer Solutions, Hong Kong & Macau, Google
  • Mr. AI Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Dataworks Group
  • Mr. Alan Teo, Chief Executive Officer, Hoiana Resort & Golf
  • Mr. Cheng Wai Tong, Deputy Director, Macao Government Tourism Office
  • Mr. Gregory Hawkins, President and Chief Operating Officer, Solaire
  • Mr. Joseph Bufalino, Executive Director of Responsible Gambling, Marina Bay Sands
  • Mr. Kenneth Feng, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, MGM China Holdings Limited
  • Mr. Walt Power, Chief Executive Officer, The Grand Ho Tram
  • And more.

Event Highlights Across May 12-14

Across three days, the co-located event presents a curated ecosystem of exhibition, education, and industry networking experiences.

Exhibition (May 12-14)
Discover innovation across gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts, with more than 150 brands spanning the full industry ecosystem.

G2E Asia Conference (May 12-14)
Access critical market insights, regulatory developments, and business opportunities across Asia from the region’s leading platform for gaming and entertainment leaders.

Asian IR Summit (May 12-14)
Explore strategic insights across hospitality, technology, sports, and entertainment with senior leaders across the evolving integrated resorts sector.

Tech Talk (May 12)
Gain actionable insights from leading experts on leveraging Artificial Intelligence, applying Machine Learning in real-world operations, and using data to drive smarter, more profitable decisions.

May 12 Slots Networking:
Engage in exclusive roundtables for slots operators and suppliers to co-design next-generation gaming cabinets with embedded biometric feedback.

May 12 G2E Asia After Party:
Unwind with industry peers at a Venetian-themed gala featuring a live preview of 2027’s most anticipated VR casino suite.

May 13 Table Games Networking:
Exchange insights between operators and providers on gameplay evolution, innovation, and future table game ecosystems.

Be Part of the Future of Entertainment and Integrated Resorts

Industry professionals from gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts sectors – including operators, providers, and hospitality experts – will gain strategic insights, networking opportunities, and explore cutting-edge innovations that are shaping the future of the sector.

Registration is available online and onsite.

To learn more about G2E Asia, visit www.G2EAsia.com.
To learn more about Asian IR Expo, visit www.AsianIRExpo.com.

Hashtag: #G2EAsia #AsianIRExpo2026

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.