Author: Sai Krishna

DE BEERS RETURNS TO FRIEZE MASTERS WITH VOYAGE THROUGH THE DIAMOND REALM, CHAPTER II: ON THE BIRTH OF A DIAMOND

An immersive experience exploring the origin of nature’s greatest works of art

MUMBAI, India and LONDON, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ —

ON THE BIRTH OF A DIAMOND

An immersive experience exploring the origin of nature’s greatest works of art

Formed billions of years ago deep within the Earth’s mantle, natural diamonds are among nature’s most extraordinary creations. For thousands of years, they have fascinated people not only for their rarity, exceptional physical properties and beauty, but for the symbolism and meaning they have carried across cultures and generations.

Returning to Frieze Masters for a second year, De Beers will present the second chapter of Voyage Through the Diamond Realm, Chapter II: On The Birth of a Diamond new immersive installation that reconnects audiences with the -metaphysical- origins of natural diamonds.

Across three rooms, the installation explores different elements of natural diamond’s origin story: from the earliest formation of carbon in the stars, and the birth of diamonds deep within the earth, to the transformation of rough diamonds into treasured objects through creativity and craftsmanship. The story of their birth connects us to the origins of the cosmos, our planet and life itself, inviting audiences to see something of our own remarkable story of origin reflected in the journey of a natural diamond.

Visitors will encounter a monumental five-metre handcrafted tapestry created by Shifron Mercury Studio, woven from natural fibres from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to evoke the geological layers of the Earth. The tapestry incorporates ceramic ‘stellar fragments’ inspired by the forms of rough natural diamonds, and ostrich eggshell beads to connect the earthly formation of natural diamonds with their cosmic origins.

Within the space is a new commission of hand-crafted amulets by Botswana-based design collective Peter Mabeo Studio, created in collaboration with basket weavers, potters and wood carvers from across Botswana. Drawing on generations of craft traditions, the works celebrate the enduring relationship between people, place and natural materials. De Beers’ natural diamonds are set within these handcrafted amulets.

While developed through distinct practices, Shifron Mercury Studio and Peter Mabeo share a philosophy rooted in respect for natural materials, simplicity and the role of human hands. Across their work, materials retain their inherent character, with craftsmanship used to reveal their potential.

The experience then moves into an immersive cinematic space, where visitors watch how carbon formed within the earliest stars became diamonds deep beneath the Earth. Science and wonder come together to reveal one of nature’s greatest creative acts; the birth of a natural diamond, with soundscape narrated by Lucian Msamati and Kristin Winters, bringing together voices and original wark from artists including Mumsy Themba and Ecka Mordecai.

The journey concludes in a space designed for reflection. De Beers’ rough natural diamonds are illuminated by ultraviolet light, inviting visitors to encounter these creations before they are cut or polished. Some reveal a hidden blue fluorescence, a fascinating natural phenomenon often described as ‘the secret within the stone,’ which offers a rare glimpse into the remarkable geological journey held within each diamond.

In their earliest form, each natural diamond reveals its unique character before beginning another chapter in their journey passing into the hands of skilled craftspeople who will reveal their potential.

Voyage Through the Diamond Realm, Chapter II builds on the global success of Voyage Through the Diamond Realm’s first edition, which toured from London to Mumbai to New York exploring the myths, legends and stories inspired by natural diamonds. Following Frieze Masters, this next chapter will also tour internationally.

Lynn Serfaty, General Manager – Natural Diamonds, De Beers, says, “Voyage Through the Diamond Realm, Chapter Two explores the extraordinary origin story of natural diamonds through the twin concepts of creation and creativity. Working with talented artists, craftspeople, actors, musicians from Botswana, United Kingdom and France, we are delighted to return to Frieze Masters to bring the story of these natural works of art to life.”

Shifron Mercury Studio says, ‘For Voyage Through the Diamond Realm – Chapter Two, we wanted to create a scene that tells the story of origin. The tapestry brings together natural fibres from Botswana and ceramic fragments to connect the Earth’s interior with the cosmos, reflecting the colours of the Earth and pieces of the stars. It was important to us that we keep the materials in their simplest state, trying not to transform them too much, but to let them express their own character.’

Peter Mabeo and Beullah Serema, Mabeo Studio, say, “For this work, basket weavers, potters and wood carvers from across Botswana bring different crafts and materials together. Each amulet carries the particular skill of the person who made it, and each skilled person carries within them the capacity to relate with the natural world, simply, through the senses. The making remains visible – the hand, the technique and the relationship each maker has with the material. The amulets are an expression of convergence – different materials, skills and people coming together.”

The relationship goes further. Across cultures and geographical distances, craftspeople can arrive at similar ways of working with materials, even without contact with one another. The potter, the basket weaver, the tapestry weaver and the wood carver all work through an innate, sensory understanding of materials.”

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group recovers diamonds in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About Frieze

Frieze is a leading global contemporary art organization, renowned for its art fairs, publications and digital presence. Founded in 1991 with the launch of frieze magazine, the brand has grown to encompass seven of the most significant art fairs worldwide in cities including Chicago, London, Los Angeles, New York and Seoul. These events attract leading artists, galleries and collectors, fostering innovative dialogues and practices within the art community. frieze magazine continues to set the benchmark for insightful art criticism and commentary, while frieze.com serves as a vital online resource. Committed to expanding the reach and understanding of contemporary art, Frieze also hosts year-round curated programs and associated initiatives, such as No.9 Cork Street, Frieze Connect and Frieze House Seoul that enrich the cultural landscape. With a dedicated team passionate about the arts, Frieze remains at the forefront of artistic exploration and cultural discourse, connecting diverse audiences with groundbreaking artists and their work.

Frieze Masters was founded in 2012 by Amanda Sharp and Matthew Slotover. Emanuela Tarizzo is the Director of Frieze Masters.  Frieze Masters offers a unique contemporary perspective on thousands of years of art history, from collectible objects to significant masterpieces from the ancient era and Old Masters to the late 20th century. The 2025 edition of the fair will showcase over 130 of the most significant galleries from around the world. For more information, visit frieze.com.

About Mabeo Studio

Mabeo Studio is a collective instigated in Botswana. Mentally, it is not geo politically constrained. Operating between the various fields of art, design, architecture, and associated means of communication; each field is applied in its own right yet, with a sense of nonspecific, broad curiosity, consideration and observation. Disciplines and classification are only used as a particular mode of implementation in and through time as actual life continues.

With art and design at times being viewed through topical issues and thought patterns of the day, ideas around aestheticism and fresh directions are all either as significant or as insignificant as the physical materials being manipulated and, as significant or insignificant as the psychology of all involved.

The studio interest is to engage in ways that subtly go beyond structured norms and to question the widespread preoccupation with visual sensuality and the unfounded appearance of originality and responsibility. Ongoing initiatives to attract attention are not a priority, other than to increase the probability of meeting collaborators who are conscientious and curious about simpler and more natural approaches.

Perceiving resonance and discord between international art or design influences from the past and present, within the valued natural environment, old cultures and clear attitudes surrounding the studio locale; a craft rooted approach, combined with basic industrial methods that can be contaminated with technology on the rare occasion is adopted.

A universal, free and accommodating approach that is premised on the ability to observe and to relate humanely is practiced. Looking beyond and through industry experience into a non-constrained sense, all materials, including the sustainable use of thought as actual material, are engaged with.

Often looking beyond design briefs, the studio looks for opportunities to express any project within broader and more accommodating contexts. Finding points of entry for essential elements that are typically overlooked, a craft application or the application of a craft-based attitude, informs an inclusive approach which creates the possibility of activity from which beauty can result.

About Shifron Mercury Studio

Shifron Mercury Studio is founded by artist-designers Goni Shifron and Gabrielle Laurin Mercury both graduates of ENSAD (École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs, Paris). Together, they create tailored environments at the crossroads of sculpture, installation, scenography, and design. They explore craftsmanship across multiple scales, from intimate objects to immersive spatial experiences. Their collaboration was born from a shared passion for raw materials, artisanal techniques, and sustainable values. Hands-on work is at the heart of their practice – whether sculpting themselves or integrating the expertise of skilled artisans into the process. Goni draws inspiration from the purity and stillness of the desert, while Gabrielle is influenced by the richness and complexity of the forest.

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Manulife and UpLink announce winners of the ‘Shaping Canada’s Longevity Advantage’ Challenge

Ten innovators selected for solutions that help Canadians live longer, healthier, more financially secure lives

The challenge is an initiative of Manulife’s Longevity Institute, driving solutions for a longer‑living Canadian society

TORONTO, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife, in collaboration with UpLink, the World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation initiative, today announced the winners of the ‘Shaping Canada’s Longevity Advantage Challenge,’ the third and final challenge in a multi-year partnership focused on advancing longevity innovation. Open to innovators from Canada and around the world, the challenge sought practical, near-term solutions that can improve health, financial resilience and social connectedness for Canadians while fostering purpose and opportunity across generations.

As Canadians live longerⁱ and more multi-stage lives, new solutions are needed to help people thrive across those additional years through better health, stronger financial resilience, meaningful social connection and a greater sense of purpose. The winning cohort showcases innovative approaches to helping Canadians navigate longer lives while supporting caregivers, families and communities.

The 10 winners of the ‘Shaping Canada’s Longevity Advantage Challenge’ are:

• Amical (Quebec City, Canada), which delivers an AI-powered companion through a familiar telephone interface to support older adults and people living with cognitive disorders.
• Childfree Trust (Mount Juliet, United States), which provides estate planning, fiduciary and emergency response services designed for childfree individuals and solo agers.
• Clay Financial (Toronto, Canada), which enables older Canadians to unlock home equity through Home Equity Sharing Agreements without taking on debt or monthly payments.
• Cosm Medical (Toronto, Canada), which uses AI, software and 3D printing to create personalized pelvic health devices that help people maintain active and independent lives.
• Idem (Montreal, Canada), which develops connected cognitive aids that support independence and care coordination for people living with dementia.
• LINK Plans (Calgary, Canada), which helps expand access to workplace retirement savings plans through financial institutions and payroll providers.
• MIMOSA Diagnostics (Toronto, Canada), which uses portable imaging technology to detect pressure injuries before visible skin breakdown occurs.
• Myant Health (Mississauga, Canada), which transforms everyday clothing into continuous health monitoring tools through smart textile technology.
• Pontosense (Toronto, Canada), which uses AI-powered wireless sensing technology to detect falls, monitor vital signs and support independent living without cameras or wearables.
• PragmaClin (St. John’s, Canada), which has developed an AI-powered neurological assessment platform for people living with Parkinson’s disease.

“Living longer is one of the greatest opportunities of our time, but it also challenges us to think differently about health and financial wellbeing,” said Patrick Graham, President & CEO, Manulife Canada. “The innovators recognized through this challenge are tackling some of the biggest questions that come with living longer: how we stay healthier for longer and how we build greater financial resilience. These are big challenges, and we need bold ideas to take them on.”

Nearly 40 per cent of Canadians are already over the age of 50ⁱⁱ, while many are balancing their own health and financial goals alongside caregiving responsibilities for aging parents and loved ones. At the same time, insights from the National Institute on Ageing‘s Ageing in Canada Survey, conducted by the NIA with support from Manulife, shows 43 per cent of older Canadians are at high risk of social isolation and only 29 per cent feel they can afford to retire, highlighting the need for innovative solutions that improve health, financial resilience and social connection. The challenge focused on three key areas: helping people plan for and navigate longer lives, supporting prevention and care coordination, and strengthening belonging and intergenerational connection.

“Longevity is reshaping how people work, save, care for others, and prepare for retirement,” said Paul Lorentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Wealth & Asset Management. “Canada has an opportunity to lead by advancing solutions that help people remain healthy, connected, and financially resilient throughout longer lives. This winning cohort demonstrates how innovation can turn that opportunity into meaningful action for individuals, families and communities.”

The winning ventures will gain access to UpLink’s global innovation ecosystem, connecting them with corporates, investors, policymakers and other partners that can help accelerate their growth and scale their impact.

“Through the World Economic Forum’s UpLink and Global Longevity Innovation Initiative, we are proud to partner with Manulife to source and scale early-stage ventures that empower people to lead healthier, more financially resilient and fulfilling lives,” said John Dutton, Head of UpLink, World Economic Forum. “With Manulife’s support, this new cohort builds on the progress of previous editions and highlights how breakthrough solutions can help drive transformation across Canada’s health, financial and care systems, strengthening people’s ability to plan for and navigate longer lives.”

The Shaping Canada’s Longevity Advantage Challenge builds on Manulife’s multi-year partnership with UpLink, announced at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos in 2024. The partnership is designed to help identify and scale innovations that support healthier, more financially resilient and fulfilling lives as global populations age. This challenge follows the successful ‘Prospering in Longevity Challenge‘ in 2024 and ‘Innovating for Asia’s Demographic’ Future Challenge in 2025.

This initiative underscores the efforts of the Manulife Longevity Institute, a global research, thought leadership, innovation, advocacy, and community investment platform that is driving action to help people thrive at every age. To learn more about Manulife’s longevity efforts and the work of the Manulife Longevity Institute, visit manulife.com.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

About Manulife Longevity Institute

The Manulife Longevity Institute is a global research, thought leadership, innovation, advocacy, and community investment platform to drive action that can help people live longer, healthier, and more financially secure lives. Underpinned by a $350 million signature commitment, its focus is on helping people extend their healthy years, promoting greater financial resilience for all. As a global insurer, retirement plan provider, and asset manager, Manulife is uniquely placed to help lead this change. The Institute’s work will support Manulife’s Impact Agenda strategy by investing in organizations that are growing the longevity economy, convening research collaborations with leading academic institutions and think tanks, and producing thought leadership to advance awareness and action on the issues impacting populations as they age. The Institute will be known as the John Hancock Longevity Institute in the United States. The actions of the Institute will be guided by a Steering Committee of members of Manulife’s Executive and Global Leadership Teams and in partnership with a robust ecosystem of partners and experts who champion longevity across Canada, Asia, and the US.

For more information, please visit Manulife.com/Longevity. 

About UpLink

UpLink, the World Economic Forum’s early-stage innovation engine, connects purpose-driven innovators with the partnerships, resources and capital they need to scale solutions for the markets and economies critical to a resilient, sustainable and prosperous world. UpLink envisions a future where profit and purpose go hand in hand — where innovation drives competitiveness, inclusion, and long-term value, where economic growth uplifts people while restoring the planet, and where resilience is the foundation of thriving, future-proof economies. For further information, click here.

Media contact

Manulife:

Emily English

Emily_English@manulife.ca

647-544-2800

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IIM Udaipur Launches India’s First One-Year Full-Time MBA in Investment and Wealth Management

The pioneering Program expands IIM Udaipur’s specialised MBA portfolio to address the evolving needs of the investment and wealth management industry.

UDAIPUR, India, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Indian Institute of Management Udaipur (IIM Udaipur) today launched its One-Year MBA in Investment and Wealth Management (IWM), becoming the first and only IIM to offer a dedicated One-Year Full-Time Residential MBA Program in this domain. This pioneering initiative reflects the Institute’s commitment to developing specialised management education that responds to emerging industry needs and evolving career opportunities in the financial services sector.

The Program comes at a time when India’s financial services sector is experiencing significant growth and transformation. Changing investor expectations, evolving financial markets, technological advancements, and increasingly sophisticated financial products are creating a growing need for professionals with specialised knowledge and managerial capabilities in investment and wealth management.

The new MBA Program aims to address this need by offering a focused management education pathway for professionals seeking to develop their expertise in this evolving domain. It further strengthens IIM Udaipur’s commitment to aligning its academic offerings with emerging industry requirements and the changing demands of the professional landscape.

A key distinguishing feature of the Program is its co-creation with leading investment and wealth management firms in India, including 360 ONE, ASK Private Wealth, Client Associates, IIFL Wealth, InCred Wealth, JM Financial, LGT Wealth India, Nippon India AMC, and Nuvame Wealth. These industry partners contribute to curriculum development and review, deliver guest lectures and workshops, and host participants for a one-month industry immersion. This close collaboration between academia and industry helps align the learning experience with contemporary industry practices and professional requirements. By combining IIM Udaipur’s academic rigour with the practical expertise of industry practitioners, the Program aims to equip participants with specialised investment knowledge, wealth advisory capabilities, ethical judgement, and an understanding of client needs—competencies essential for building trusted client relationships and navigating the evolving financial services landscape.

Prof. Rajesh Agrawal, Chairperson, One-Year MBA Programs, IIM Udaipur, said:

“India’s growing financial wealth and increasingly complex investment landscape call for professionals who combine technical expertise with sound judgement and a deep understanding of client needs. Our One-Year MBA in Investment and Wealth Management has been designed to address this need through a distinctive combination of academic rigour and industry expertise. Co-created with leading investment and wealth management firms, the Program emphasises trust, ethics, and fiduciary responsibility while preparing experienced professionals for careers in asset management, private banking, wealth advisory, and family offices. We look forward to developing thoughtful investment professionals, trusted advisors, and responsible leaders for the evolving financial services industry.”

With this launch, IIM Udaipur further expands its portfolio of specialised One-Year MBA programs, complementing its existing offerings in Digital Enterprise Management and Global Supply Chain Management. The addition of Investment and Wealth Management reflects the Institute’s approach to developing management education in response to emerging business needs and specialised professional domains.

The Program also underscores the growing importance of specialised management education in preparing professionals to engage with the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly complex financial ecosystem.

For more information about the Program, visit https://iwm.iimu.ac.in.

About IIM Udaipur

IIM Udaipur is well on its way to becoming a globally recognised B-School. It has broken new ground by focusing on world-class research and transforming students into tomorrow’s managers and leaders. The Institute arrived on the global education stage by securing AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation in just eight years after its establishment. IIMU has been listed on the Financial Times (FT) Global MIM Ranking 2026 for the 8th consecutive year, making it the only IIM to have achieved this feat. In the QS Global MIM Ranking 2027, IIM Udaipur continues to maintain its listing for the 8th year in a row, reinforcing its global standing. Additionally, IIM Udaipur ranks 4th in India for research in management, according to the UT Dallas methodology, which tracks publications in leading global journals, showcasing its excellence in academic research.

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ESTEVE CDMO expands its presence in Asia with a major investment and new manufacturing site in China

• After more than two decades in China, ESTEVE CDMO marks a new chapter in its commitment to the country and the region.
• With more than $80 million invested, the new facility brings a new generation of manufacturing capabilities, with 250 m³ of reaction volume and potential capacity of more than 400+ m³.
• Advanced manufacturing, automation, and digitalization enhance ESTEVE CDMO’s capabilities and support its continued growth in Asia.

SHAOXING, China, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ESTEVE CDMO, Esteve Healthcare contract development and manufacturing organization, is strengthening its presence in Asia through the relocation, expansion and modernization of its existing manufacturing operations in China, supported by an investment of more than $80 million.

The new facility in Shaoxing represents a significant step forward in ESTEVE CDMO’s manufacturing capabilities in China, combining increased capacity with advanced technologies and a high degree of automation and digitalization. Designed with flexibility and future development in mind, the facility will enhance the company’s ability to respond to evolving customer and market needs in China and across the wider Asian market.

“After more than 20 years in China, this investment marks an important new chapter for us in the country. The relocation and expansion of our operations bring together advanced technologies, digitalization, and deep local expertise, strengthening our ability to support customers across China and Asia while further integrating the site into ESTEVE’s global manufacturing network. But what truly differentiates us is the exceptional team that has built this business over the years. Their deep expertise, long-standing commitment, and strong culture are at the heart of what we do and will continue to drive our growth in China and beyond. Ultimately, this is what drives us: making a difference for patients and contributing to our shared purpose of improving lives together.” said Sun Xuejie, Managing Director China & Mexico at ESTEVE CDMO.

Increased capacity and advanced capabilities

The new site comprises three manufacturing workshops with a total reaction volume of 250 m³, with space reserved for an additional 150+ m³, enabling potential total reaction capacity to exceed 400+ m³ as manufacturing needs evolve. The site has been designed with the necessary service and utility infrastructure to support future expansion.

Advanced manufacturing, automation, and digitalization are integrated throughout the facility to enhance operational efficiency, flexibility, and scalability. A purpose-built centralized control center supports the site’s operations, alongside warehousing facilities, an office building and dedicated infrastructure designed to enable future development.

As part of ESTEVE CDMO’s global technology platform, our China operations complement the capabilities available across our broader manufacturing network. Through this integrated footprint, ESTEVE CDMO offers technologies such as Spray Drying and HPAPI manufacturing, supporting the increasingly complex requirements of small-molecule API development and manufacturing.

The project also strengthens local capabilities and supports the development of people and expertise in China, while environmental, health and safety considerations are integrated into the design and operation of the facility. The new site has achieved a “Very Good” BREEAM rating, recognizing its sustainability performance and approach to responsible design and operation. The project has also been selected as a candidate for the BREEAM China Awards. These efforts are part of ESTEVE’s broader commitment to creating positive impact, reinforced by its B Corp Certification and its focus on high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and responsible business practices.

More than 20 years in China: strengthening ESTEVE CDMO’s presence in the region

The investment builds on more than two decades of manufacturing experience in China, as well as strong local capabilities and long-term relationships. It reinforces ESTEVE’s commitment to the country and strengthens its platform to support customers across China and the wider Asian market, while further contributing to the company’s global manufacturing network and capabilities.

“ESTEVE’s more than two decades in China are a strong example of the value of long-term commitment and collaboration. This investment reflects the company’s continued confidence in the region and its commitment to strengthening industrial capabilities and creating value locally,” said Francisco de Asís Benítez Salas, Consul General of Spain in Shanghai.

China is an important part of ESTEVE’s global manufacturing network and a key location for serving customers across Asia. The strengthened operations in Shaoxing will enhance local manufacturing capabilities, increase flexibility and provide greater capacity to support customers and partners in China and across the wider Asian market. 

The investment also contributes to strengthening local industrial capabilities and developing the people and expertise that support ESTEVE CDMO’s long-term presence in China. At the same time, the operations connect local capabilities with the standards, technology, and know-how of ESTEVE’s global organization.

Supporting ESTEVE’s long-term growth

ESTEVE operates through two strategic businesses, Pharma and CDMO, united by its shared purpose of Improving lives together. 

The continued development of ESTEVE CDMO’s manufacturing platform strengthens its capabilities and international reach, while supporting the long-term needs of pharmaceutical partners.

The investment in China brings together more than two decades of local experience with the scale and capabilities of ESTEVE’s global CDMO platform. It provides a stronger foundation for the company’s continued development in China, while reinforcing its ability to support pharmaceutical customers across Asia and contribute to the development of advanced manufacturing capabilities in the region.

About ESTEVE CDMO

ESTEVE CDMO, part of Esteve Healthcare, is a global pure-play partner specialized in small-molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and pharmaceutical intermediates, supporting pharmaceutical and biotech innovators in advancing complex molecules from early development to commercial supply. With over 60 years of experience in development and manufacturing, we combine deep scientific expertise, robust regulatory and quality systems, and a collaborative mindset. 

ESTEVE CDMO, with headquarters in Barcelona, has a global network of six development and manufacturing sites across Spain, the United States, Mexico, and China, enabling scalable, resilient, and reliable supply solutions, tailored to each program’s evolving needs.

About ESTEVE

ESTEVE is an international healthcare organization with a clear purpose: improving lives. This reason for reflecting its commitment to patients, healthcare professionals, communities, and innovators; believing that progress in science and health requires collaboration, shared responsibility, and trust. The company upholds strong ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) standards and is certified as a B Corp.

ESTEVE is focused on serving people living with complex diseases with highly specialized solutions. In parallel, under the ESTEVE CDMO scope, the organization works alongside innovators to accelerate treatments through the development and manufacturing of small-molecule APIs.

Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Barcelona, ESTEVE has grown globally, with pharmaceutical affiliates in Europe and the United States; and CDMO facilities in Spain, Mexico, China and the United States.

More information at www.esteve.com.

Press contact: Gemma Mestre, Global External Communications Manager, gmestre@esteve.com

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HelpMeSee Guwahati Training Operation Reaches 51 Ophthalmologists Across Northeast India

Successful collaboration with HMS Vision Private Limited and Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya expands access to simulation-based cataract surgical training across four Northeast states

GUWAHATI, India, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HelpMeSee and HMS Vision Private Limited, in collaboration with Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya (SSDN), announced the successful completion of a four-and-a-half-month simulation-based cataract surgical training operation in Guwahati that provided 51 ophthalmologists with access to surgical skills training closer to where they live and work.

Conducted from April through August 2026, the initiative brought two HelpMeSee Eye Surgery Simulators from HMS Private Limited in Mumbai to SSDN in Guwahati, approximately 2,700 kilometers away. The operation provided ophthalmologists from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Tripura with local access to the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Training Program.

The results exceeded the initiative’s original goal of training 30 cataract surgeons in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS). In total, 51 ophthalmologists participated, including 26 from SSDN and 25 from other institutions across Northeast India.

“This operation demonstrates what can happen when we bring training closer to ophthalmologists rather than asking them to travel thousands of kilometers to access it,” said Dr. Akshay Nair, Senior Consultant – Market Development Advisor, HMS Vision Private Limited. “By working with Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya, we expanded access to HelpMeSee simulation-based training and helped ophthalmologists develop surgical skills that can ultimately benefit patients and communities across Northeast India.”

HMS Vision Private Limited, the Indian subsidiary of HelpMeSee, managed the operation and delivered the HelpMeSee Simulation-based Training Program with support from SSDN. An HMS Vision Private Limited Instructor Assistant provided on-site support in Guwahati, while an Instructor in Mumbai remotely observed training sessions, combining local hands-on simulation with continued instructional oversight.

The cohort included 31 residents and 20 fellows. Early follow-up also shows participants progressing in their surgical journeys. Twelve participants had progressed to performing independent surgery, while another 17 had begun assisting with surgical steps. HMS Vision Private Limited continues to follow participants to better understand how their simulation-based training translates into clinical practice over time.

“The four-month HelpMeSee Simulation-based Training Program at Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya has been a highly valuable experience for both our internal trainees and ophthalmologists from different parts of the North-Eastern region. We have received very encouraging feedback from the participants, particularly on the opportunity to practice and refine their surgical skills in a structured simulation environment and gain greater confidence in their clinical practice,” said Dr. Kasturi Bhattacharjee, Director, Clinical and Academics, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya.

The Guwahati operation demonstrates a flexible model for bringing simulation-based surgical education closer to where it is needed. Rather than creating a permanent training center, HelpMeSee training capability was deployed temporarily within SSDN’s established ophthalmic training environment, reducing the need for participants to travel to distant metropolitan training centers.

For HelpMeSee, the success in Guwahati represents more than the completion of one training operation. It demonstrates how partnerships, simulation technology, and a flexible training model can expand access to surgical skill development in regions where geography has traditionally been a barrier.

As HelpMeSee continues to expand simulation-based training across India and globally, the goal remains the same: equip more cataract specialists with the surgical readiness to restore sight in their communities.

About HelpMeSee

In a world where 100 million people are blind or visually impaired due to cataract, HelpMeSee, a not-for-profit under IRS 501(c)(3), has a global mission to eradicate cataract blindness by increasing the training of Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS). This safe and relatively quick procedure delivers successful outcomes at a low cost. The HelpMeSee MSICS training system features high-fidelity, virtual reality simulation with haptic feedback, sophisticated courseware, learning management systems, and electronic learning aids.

HelpMeSee was founded by Al and Jim Ueltschi, who imagined building the MSICS training system by incorporating many of the methods and techniques used successfully in commercial pilot training. As co-founder of Orbis International and founder of FlightSafety International, Al Ueltschi was an icon in the aviation industry and was devoted to ending preventable blindness in the developing world. HelpMeSee trains high quality, very low-cost MSICS to ensure that all communities have access to sight restoring affordable treatment. With more than 40 simulators and 19 training centers worldwide, HelpMeSee partners with governments, universities and innovators to fight the global cataract blindness crisis. For more information, visit http://www.helpmesee.org.

About HMS Vision Private Limited

HMS Vision Private Limited, the Indian subsidiary of HelpMeSee, supports the delivery of simulation-based cataract surgery training programs across India. The organization operates a Training Center of Excellence in Mumbai and collaborates with leading institutions including L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Aravind Eye Hospital, Sankara Eye Hospital, and Sankara Nethralaya to expand access to high-quality surgical education and strengthen the ophthalmic workforce.

About Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya

Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya (SSDN) is a premier not-for-profit tertiary eye care institution based in Guwahati, Assam, and a leading centre of excellence in Northeast India. Established in 1994 under the Sri Kanchi Sankara Health and Educational Foundation, the institution was dedicated to the nation by former Prime Minister Late P. V. Narasimha Rao and later recognized as a “Centre of Excellence” in 2004 by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Since its inception, SSDN has grown from modest beginnings into a comprehensive, multi-specialty eye care institution addressing the region’s critical need for accessible ophthalmic services.

Amanda Kronberg, Director of Marketing: 720-220-9882

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Mapmygenome Completes Acquisition of dnaPower Inc. to Accelerate North American Expansion in DNA, Microbiome, Longevity and Precision Health Testing

VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mapmygenome announced the completion of its acquisition of Vancouver-based dnaPower Inc., a pioneer in personal genomics. The strategic transaction expands Mapmygenome’s North American footprint and establishes a market-leading platform in DNA testing, gut microbiome health, longevity, and AI-driven multi-omics testing.

By uniting dnaPower with Mapmygenome’s global scale and premier CAP-accredited clinical laboratory capabilities, including Vancouver-based Microbiome Insights, acquired in 2025, the acquisition creates a centralized platform for DNA, microbiome, pharmacogenetic, and longevity testing dedicated to proactive, preventive healthcare across Canada and the US.

“Acquiring dnaPower is a pivotal step in scaling our North American operations,” said Anu Acharya, Founder and CEO of Mapmygenome. “Pairing dnaPower’s commercial trajectory with our CAP-accredited clinical laboratories and AI capabilities positions us to define the next frontier in microbiome, longevity, and precision health testing.”

“Joining Mapmygenome unlocks an extraordinary growth chapter for dnaPower,” said Dr. Lois Nahirney, Founder and CEO of dnaPower. “Backing from a global leader with elite laboratory infrastructure gives us the foundation to scale rapidly across North America, delivering advanced, high-quality products directly to our clients.”

Strategic Highlights

• Market Expansion: Integrates dnaPower’s consumer reach with Mapmygenome’s global footprint, technology stack, and R&D pipeline.
• Integrated Longevity Engine: Combines multi-omics analytics and clinical laboratory capabilities to deploy new commercial offerings in healthy aging, gut profiling, and epigenetic assessment.
• Centralized Operations: Establishes a Vancouver processing hub operating under CAP-accredited and ISO-certified protocols.

Comprehensive Testing Suite

• Longevity and Gut Health: Advanced shotgun metagenomic sequencing, gut microbiome profiling, epigenetic biological age panels, and longevity insights.
• Genomic and Preventive Health: Whole-genome and exome sequencing, pharmacogenetics, DNA wellness panels, methylation testing, and clinical bioinformatics.

About Mapmygenome

Mapmygenome is a global leader in personal genomics, longevity solutions, and precision medicine. Combining AI-driven multi-omics with premier CAP-accredited clinical laboratory infrastructure, Mapmygenome empowers individuals and healthcare providers with actionable insights across whole-genome sequencing, gut health, and healthy aging to transform preventive care worldwide.

Learn more: mapmygenome.ai

About dnaPower

Founded in 2008 and based in Vancouver, dnaPower specializes in actionable DNA-based health, nutrition, fitness, methylation, and longevity insights for consumers and practitioners.

Learn more: dnaPower.com

About Microbiome Insights

Microbiome Insights, a Mapmygenome company, is a Canadian provider of CAP-accredited DNA, microbiome, and multi-omics sequencing, analytics, and bioinformatics services.

Learn more: Microbiomeinsights.com

Media Contact

Email: anu@mapmygenome.ai 

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KuCoin TradFi Expands 24/7 Trading to Over 170 Assets Referencing Global Equities, Metals and Other Commodities

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin, a leading global crypto platform built on trust, today announced an expansion of KuCoin TradFi to offer eligible users access to contracts referencing U.S., Hong Kong and South Korean equities, metals and other commodities. KuCoin TradFi now offers more than 170 perpetual contract pairs across eight categories.

Building on the introduction of Stock Index Perpetual Contracts in March 2026, KuCoin has continued expanding its range of traditional asset-linked derivatives for eligible users. The lineup includes contracts referencing technology and semiconductor companies, such as Tesla, NVIDIA, Micron and SanDisk, alongside index- and ETF-linked contracts and contracts referencing commodities including crude oil, natural gas, copper and silver.

The expanded selection provides exposure to a range of regional markets and market themes, including AI, semiconductors, energy and metals. Subject to applicable product terms and eligibility requirements, users can respond to corporate earnings, technology investment and commodity cycles through long or short positions. Settled in USDT and available for 24/7 trading, the contracts allow users to manage positions and respond to developments beyond traditional exchange hours through a familiar futures interface.

For eligible users at VIP1 and above, KuCoin’s Unified Trading Account (UTA) supports TradFi futures trading within a shared framework for funds, margin and risk management, reducing transfers between separate trading accounts. UTA account holders can also use KCUSD as margin for supported TradFi positions while eligible holdings continue earning rewards under applicable product rules, enabling more flexible capital use without first redeeming or converting KCUSD.

The expansion advances KuCoin 5.0’s vision of bringing trading, asset management and global market opportunities together on one platform. It reinforces the “Trust, Built-in.” initiative through broader asset choice, unified account management, more flexible margin use and transparent trading mechanisms. KuCoin will continue building a more connected platform that gives users greater flexibility, efficiency and control.

Visit the TradFi Futures Spin campaign page to explore KuCoin’s expanded TradFi offering and review the applicable campaign terms and conditions.

About KuCoin

Founded in 2017, KuCoin is a leading global crypto platform built on trust and security, serving over 45 million users across 200+ countries and regions. Known for its reliability and user-first approach, the platform builds trust into every layer of the user experience, combining advanced technology, deep liquidity, and strong security safeguards to deliver a seamless trading experience. KuCoin provides access to 1,000+ digital assets through a broad product suite and remains committed to building a compliant and user-centric ecosystem for the future of finance, backed by SOC 2 Type II, ISO/IEC 27001:2022, ISO/IEC 27701:2019, ISO 22301:2019 and ISO/IEC 42001:2023 certifications. In recent years, KuCoin has continued to strengthen its global compliance foundation, marked by key milestones including AUSTRAC registration in Australia, a MiCA license in Europe, and regulatory progress in other markets.

Learn more at www.kucoin.com.

Disclaimer

This material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or an offer or solicitation. Trading digital assets and related products involves significant risks, including the potential loss of invested funds. Product availability is subject to applicable laws, regulations, and eligibility requirements.

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JEET AI Launches India’s First AI Tutor That Goes Beyond Answers to Actually Teach

NEW DELHI, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — JEET AI introduces India’s first AI Tutor that truly teaches, replicating the experience of learning with a personal teacher. Rather than waiting for students to ask questions, it actively teaches concepts, writes and annotates on a virtual board, presents relevant multimedia content, and uses interactive simulations to simplify complex topics. For instance, while teaching a concept in Chemistry, JEET AI can illustrate chemical reactions, explain the underlying science through visual demonstrations, and pause to test whether the student has understood the concept before moving forward.

Just like a good teacher, it continuously checks comprehension, asks questions, and tests students throughout the lesson, adapting its explanations based on their understanding. Students can interrupt at any moment, ask unlimited questions, and request explanations repeatedly, without hesitation or judgment. JEET AI has launched with teaching capabilities in Hindi, with support for additional Indian languages, including Tamil and Kannada, set to be introduced in the coming months.

For decades, students have relied on coaching centres, recorded lectures, and YouTube videos to prepare for their examinations. However, teaching hundreds of students simultaneously has made truly personalized learning nearly impossible. While personal tutoring offers individual attention, its high cost makes it inaccessible to most families. AI chatbots have made doubt solving easier than ever but answering questions and actually teaching are two very different things. JEET AI has set out to bridge this gap, bringing personalized teaching to students across India at a starting price of just ₹1,499 per month.

Ritvik Kulshrestha, Founder of Jeet AI and CEO of Extramarks Education, said, “For centuries, the best form of education has been a great teacher sitting beside a student, understanding their difficulties, and adapting to their needs. Unfortunately, this level of personal attention has always been a privilege available to very few. With JEET AI, we are using technology to change that. Our goal is not to build another tool that answers questions, but to make the experience of having a great personal teacher accessible to every student.”

Combining over 15 years of educational expertise, proprietary content, and pedagogical research from Extramarks Education, JEET AI goes beyond conventional AI tools to deliver an immersive, interactive learning experience that replicates a personalized one-on-one learning environment. Whether mastering a concept, learning an entire subject, or preparing for JEE or school examinations, JEET AI delivers structured, interactive, and personalized teaching, followed by targeted practice and comprehensive assessments to identify learning gaps and ensure thorough understanding and mastery of every concept.

Starting at just ₹1,499 per month, JEET AI aims to make personal tutoring affordable at an unprecedented scale. While conventional coaching programmes can cost lakhs of rupees, often without individualized attention, JEET AI brings a dedicated AI teacher within reach of families nationwide. Its ambition is to provide students with a comprehensive alternative to expensive coaching, recorded lectures, and multiple AI learning tools, all through one affordable platform.

Kulshrestha added, “Our vision is simple. No student’s potential should be limited by their family’s income, location, or language. We want every student to have access to a great personal teacher, and we believe AI can finally make that possible.”

JEET AI is initially launching with JEE and Foundation courses in Hindi, followed by the introduction of NEET, CBSE Board preparation, and other courses, along with support for additional Indian languages, over the coming weeks and months.

Brand Film: https://youtu.be/_MGN46IXeGY?si=6ECuQoNmaoNXZ_QK

About JEET AI

JEET AI is an AI-powered personal tutor founded by Ritvik Kulshrestha, Founder of JEET AI and CEO of Extramarks Education. Built on Extramarks’ 15+ years of educational expertise, proprietary content and pedagogical research, it is designed to make structured, personalised learning more accessible to students across India.

For more information, visit https://www.jeetai.live/.

Download JEET AI on Google Play Store:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jeetai.app&hl=en_IN

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The Nuclear Company Announces Prosperity One, a 6.6 Gigawatt Nuclear Power Campus in Lewis County, Kentucky

The proposed campus could deploy up to six Westinghouse AP1000 reactors along the Ohio River, establishing Kentucky’s first commercial nuclear power project and marking the largest nuclear power generation site in the United States.

LEWIS COUNTY, Ky., Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Nuclear Company today announced Prosperity One, a proposed nuclear energy campus in Lewis County, Kentucky, that could accommodate up to six Westinghouse AP1000 reactors generating approximately 6.6 gigawatts of electricity.

Located along the Ohio River in eastern Kentucky, the proposed development would become the largest nuclear power campus in the United States and one of the largest in the world if fully constructed. The project answers President Trump’s call to accelerate American energy production and represents a major step toward restoring America’s ability to build nuclear power at scale while bringing a new generation of industrial investment, skilled jobs, and long-term economic opportunity to a region that helped power the nation for more than a century.

The Nuclear Company, which has site control in the area, will partner with local landowners and community leaders in Lewis County to advance the proposed campus. The company plans to begin site development activities and pursue the federal approvals necessary to begin construction in 2028.

“For generations, communities along the Ohio River have formed America’s industrial backbone,” said Joe Klecha, Chief Nuclear Officer for The Nuclear Company. “We are proud to partner with the community to apply our team’s collective experience to deliver lasting jobs, a stronger tax base, and reliable power for Kentucky.”

Klecha, a former licensed senior reactor operator, brings 33 years of nuclear experience—from U.S. Navy nuclear submarines to operations leadership at some of America’s largest nuclear fleets. At Vogtle Units 3 and 4, he held construction and operational readiness leadership roles. The Nuclear Company’s Services division has performed maintenance at more than 40 percent of America’s current operating nuclear power facilities.

The Nuclear Company’s approach is grounded in the belief that major infrastructure projects succeed when the communities hosting them are active participants in their development.

Project planning will address transportation, housing, environmental stewardship, emergency preparedness, water use, and other considerations associated with developing a nuclear campus of this scale.

Sam Howard, a lifelong resident of Lewis County, owns the site and has partnered with The Nuclear Company to advance the project. He shares a vision for the large infrastructure buildout that would support local jobs and community economic development.

“I have nine grandchildren, and all of them live in Lewis County. I want them to have the opportunity to stay,” said Howard. “For years, our county’s unemployment rate has been among the highest in the state. An infrastructure project like this could provide jobs and economic opportunities for generations of Eastern Kentucky residents. I am proud to help advance this development.”

Lewis County will be among Kentucky’s first counties to request designation as a nuclear ready community under the Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority. County leaders unanimously launched the effort in July 2026, held public input meetings, and earlier this month voted overwhelmingly to submit the county’s filing to the Authority.

With the proposed site identified, The Nuclear Company is preparing to advance the engineering, environmental, regulatory, and commercial work required to move Prosperity One toward construction.

Initial activities will include detailed site characterization, geotechnical investigations, environmental assessments, transmission interconnection planning, and preparation for federal nuclear licensing.

As part of the approval process, TNC will engage the Nuclear Regulatory Commission through its established licensing processes, with the objective of obtaining the necessary approvals to begin construction in 2028.

‍About the Nuclear Company

The Nuclear Company is America’s nuclear infrastructure platform. We’re building a fully integrated system to unite the nuclear deployment chain, scale new builds, and drive operations and security.

‍Powered by the convergence of new technologies and an unprecedented verticalization of nuclear deployment, services, and systems, we integrate the entire nuclear lifecycle around one operating model and one data backbone.

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HR Path Strengthens its Australian Presence with Strategic Acquisition of Payroll Experts Australia

PARIS, Oct. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, today announces its strategic acquisition of Payroll Experts Australia, a Brisbane-based company specialising in payroll compliance, remediation, workforce management and HR systems consulting.

Founded in 2009, Payroll Experts Australia has delivered more than 530 projects for over 260 organisations across Australia and New Zealand. Independent of any software vendor, the company supports employers across the full payroll, workforce management and HR systems lifecycle, with expertise spanning payroll compliance and audit, remediation, award and agreement interpretation, payroll processing, advisory and end-to-end systems implementation.

The acquisition strengthens HR Path’s ability to provide end-to-end HR transformation services across the ANZ market. Payroll Experts Australia’s specialist capabilities complement HR Path’s existing HRIS technology and SAP SuccessFactors expertise, enabling the combined organisation to support clients with a broader range of locally grounded services, from strategic advisory and systems implementation to payroll compliance and operational support. 

Payroll Experts Australia will continue to operate under the brand “Payroll Experts Australia, an HR Path Company”. Its leadership team and employees will remain in their current roles, ensuring continuity of service for clients while giving the business access to HR Path’s international capabilities and resources. 

The transaction builds on HR Path’s expansion in the region. HR Path has been active in Australia since 2019, following the acquisition of DDG. It opened an Australian office in 2024 and acquired RKM Consulting in 2025, strengthening its HRIS technology and SAP SuccessFactors capabilities across Australia and New Zealand.  

“The acquisition of Payroll Experts Australia, a company renowned for its expertise in payroll compliance, is a strategic move that supports our ambition to be the global reference in HR transformation,” said François Boulet, Co-founding Partner at HR Path. “Their deep knowledge and strong client relationships in Australia complement our global capabilities, enabling us to deliver even more value to our clients. This partnership is about synergy, innovation, and shared commitment to excellence.”

“We are very happy about this new chapter!” said Steve Keenaghan, Chief Executive Officer at Payroll Experts Australia. “This step opens up exciting opportunities for our team and our clients and ensures our continued growth and success. We will maintain our commitment to delivering exceptional, independent payroll expertise while exploring new possibilities within HR Path.”

Contact:

Fabienne LATOUR  Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com

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