24, Mar 2026
Global CFP Professional Community Reaches Over 236,000 as Profession Advances Worldwide
DENVER, COLO – 24 March 2026 – The global community of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professionals continued its upward trajectory in 2025, closing the year with 236,300 CFP professionals across 29 territories. This represents a net increase of 5,652 CFP professionals over the previous year and a global year-over-year growth rate of 2.5%.
Since 2004, when Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. (FPSB) was founded, the number of CFP professionals worldwide has continued to grow each year, reflecting the global commitment to rigorous professional standards and the value that competent, ethical financial planners bring to consumers and markets.
“The strength of the global CFP professional community reflects a worldwide commitment to excellence in financial planning,” said FPSB CEO Dante De Gori, CFP. “As more professionals pursue CFP certification and more consumers seek objective, client-first advice, we’re seeing global standards strengthen public trust and confidence in the profession.”
Building a Younger, More Diverse Global Profession
As the profession grows, its demographic profile is also evolving. In 2025, the CFP certification continued to attract a new generation of financial planners:
- 62.1% of those who achieved CFP certification in 2025 were under the age of 40
- 37.9% of those who achieved CFP certification in 2025 were female
These trends highlight the increasing appeal of CFP certification among younger and more diverse talent entering the profession.
“It’s encouraging to see younger professionals and women choosing to pursue CFP certification,” added De Gori. “A diverse, next generation community of CFP professionals is essential to meeting the evolving needs of clients around the world. The momentum we’re seeing today will shape the future of the profession for decades to come.”
More than 32,500 candidates sat for CFP certification exams around the world in 2025, reflecting strong interest in pursuing the credential that upholds professionalism in the practice of financial planning.
Across FPSB’s global network representing more than 500,000 financial planning professionals, nearly half hold the CFP certification, underscoring the certification’s standing as the global symbol of excellence in financial planning.
“In territories like Hong Kong, where there is one CFP professional for every 1,679 adults*, we’re seeing how markets with strong certification adoption can meaningfully expand access to competent and ethical advice,” noted De Gori.
2025 Highlights
The United States and Japan recorded the largest absolute gains in the number of CFP certification holders in 2025, with net increases of 4,436 and 805, respectively.
Five territories achieved double digit growth rates in their CFP professional populations:
- Italy: 79.2%
- Chinese Taipei: 23.3%
- Brunei: 21.4%
- Malaysia: 10.5%
- Thailand: 10.1%
The five territories with the highest number of CFP professionals were:
- United States: 107,529
- People’s Republic of China: 32,599
- Japan: 27,786
- Canada: 17,446
- Brazil: 11,425
Other notable milestones:
- Chinese Taipei exceeded 4,000 CFP professionals
- Italy surpassed 100 CFP professionals, significant progress after launching CFP certification in that market in 2023
- San Marino became FPSB’s 29th territory, strengthening the global footprint of the CFP professional community
For more information on the global CFP professional community as of year-end 2025, view FPSB’s infographic.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Mar 2026
WCS Backs Urgent Protections for Giant Otter at Wildlife Summit in Brazil
23, Mar 2026
Bridge Conference Partners with Jukebox Ventures on £1m Startup Accelerator
Jukebox Ventures will host an accelerator programme worth up to £1m for music and tech startups and offering investment in the most exciting new projects via funding, marketing and launch strategy.
The international B2B gathering connecting leaders across music, entertainment and technology returns to the Adriatic coast in Croatia on 27th-29th May for its highly anticipated second edition.
Building on the resounding success of its debut in Croatia, this year’s edition will see Jukebox Ventures curate the music tech strand of the programme and host an accelerator session offering the chance to secure funding up to £1m for exciting new projects. Successful applications for the programme will get 50% discounted tickets for attending the conference.
Hosted at the exclusive Petram Resort and Residences, the conference provides a distinctive and intimate setting where executives, entrepreneurs, artists and investors can explore the evolving relationship between music, technology and culture. With 80% of last year’s attendees holding executive-level roles, including CEOs, directors and senior decision makers from leading European agencies, promoters and festivals, Bridge has already established itself as a unique addition to the global music industry calendar, combining high-level conversations, curated networking and world-class Istrian hospitality.
World-Class speakers across music, technology & entertainment
Bridge 2026 will once again bring together an exceptional lineup of speakers, executives and innovators from across the global music, entertainment and technology landscape, with a carefully curated programme exploring the future of music through the intersection of technology, AI, investment, artist development and the rapidly evolving relationship between culture and digital innovation.
Confirmed speakers include industry leaders such as Maria May (Head of Electronic, Creative Artists Agency), Steve Hogan (Agent & Partner, WME), Greg Parmley (Managing Director, International Live Music Conference), Holger Jan Schmidt (General Secretary, YOUROPE), Fruzsina Szép (Festival Director, SUPERBLOOM and Lollapalooza Berlin), Sara Bazian (Strategic Partnerships Manager, YouTube Music), Ivan Milivojev (Co-Founder, EXIT Festival) and others, with many more speakers set to be announced soon.
Dušan Kovačević, co-founder of EXIT Festival, whose long-standing work at the intersection of music, culture and social impact helped inspire the creation of Bridge as a platform for forward-thinking industry dialogue, says, “Bridge was born from the idea that the future of music will be built at the intersection of creativity, technology and human connection. With Jukebox Ventures joining us this year, we are creating a space where bold ideas, industry leadership and real investment can come together to help shape what comes next. Because for real business success, even the best ideas need direct access to the right people, and that is exactly what Bridge is designed to provide.”
Jukebox Ventures to host accelerator programme for emerging tech startups
Bridge 2026 will also host a startup accelerator programme in partnership with Jukebox Ventures, an investment platform that is all about face-to-face meetings and making real connections. As part of the initiative, selected early-stage startups working across music, technology and entertainment will have the opportunity to present their ideas directly to investors and industry leaders attending the conference. Successful participants will receive investment support alongside mentorship from members of the Jukebox Ventures network and other industry figures present at the event.
Alex Jukes, founder of Jukebox Ventures says, “At Jukebox Ventures, we believe the next wave of innovation in music and entertainment will come from founders who have traditionally been shut out of the room. Bridge is exactly the kind of platform that changes that, and we believe the best way to achieve it is through close contact, in-person meetings and building real world relationships. By bringing together the brightest minds in the industry with a genuine commitment to backing overlooked talent, we are not just investing in startups, we are investing in the future of the entire sector. We couldn’t be more excited to be part of this.”
Further speakers and programme details will be announced in the coming weeks. A full schedule, including panel discussions, keynote sessions, and the Jukebox Ventures pitch competition, will be published at bridgeconference.net.
23, Mar 2026
Boston Imaging and NeuroLogica Unify Under Samsung HME America, Announcing Brand Update and Strategic Advancements
Medical Imaging equipment provider receives Samsung rebrand
BOSTON (March 23, 2026)- Samsung Medison today announces that its U.S. medical imaging businesses, previously operating as Neurologica and Boston Imaging, will unify under a new corporate identity, Samsung HME (Healthcare and Medical Equipment) America. This transition brings the company’s U.S. ultrasound, digital radiography, and computed tomography (CT) operations under one integrated structure that reflects the global Samsung brand behind its technology.
The unification underscores Samsung’s continued strategic investment in advancing medical imaging innovation and strengthening its presence in the United States healthcare market. By aligning its brand structure with its expanding portfolio and growing U.S. footprint, Samsung reinforces its long-term commitment to delivering cutting-edge imaging solutions, deep clinical collaboration, and sustained operational excellence.
“This milestone represents more than a name change,” said Kyu Tae Yoo, CEO of Samsung Medison and Division Head of Samsung HME at Samsung Electronics. “It reinforces Samsung’s long-term commitment to healthcare providers nationwide and reflects the growth and maturity of our U.S. medical imaging organization. Our growth has been powered by listening closely to our customers and translating real clinical challenges into innovation at a pace rarely seen in healthcare; and we will continue along this path.”
The announcement follows a period of significant growth across Samsung’s U.S. medical imaging portfolio, marked by expanded product innovation, organizational investment, and deeper engagement with health systems nationwide. As demand for advanced imaging solutions continues to evolve, the company is scaling its U.S. presence to meet the needs of a rapidly transforming healthcare environment.
“This new chapter as Samsung HME America strengthens how we connect with customers and partners while giving us the flexibility to innovate and advance medical imaging for the future,” said Tracy Bury, Chief Commercial Officer. “With a unified organization, we can deliver greater consistency, deeper collaboration, and a more streamlined experience across ultrasound, digital radiography, and CT. This alignment positions us to move faster, support our partners more effectively, and continue building long-term relationships grounded in trust and performance”.
Recent advancements within Samsung HME America include the Samsung R20 and Z20 ultrasound systems, designed to deliver enhanced image quality and AI-powered tools that support more confident clinical decision-making. The company has also continued to expand its AI capabilities through the Samsung acquisition of Sonio, a French AI-powered prenatal ultrasound startup specializing in early-stage fetal abnormality detection. In addition, Samsung is advancing and expanding its Digital Radiography portfolio with innovations focused on dose reduction and workflow enhancements.
Samsung HME America remains the global headquarters and manufacturing center for the CT business, advancing point-of-care platforms and pushing the boundaries of medical imaging with photon counting detector technology.
The rebrand decision aligns with Samsung HME America’s mission of improving patient care by developing outstanding, customer-centric imaging solutions quickly and with passion. Under the newly established branding, the company looks to new AI technology releases, strategic partnerships, along with upcoming innovative product introductions into 2026. For more information on Samsung medical imaging products and technology, please visit: https://usa.samsunghealthcare.
23, Mar 2026
PM Modi Urges Swift De-escalation in West Asia, Highlights Risks to India’s Energy and Diaspora Interests
New Delhi, March 23 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday raised serious concerns in the Lok Sabha over the escalating conflict in West Asia, cautioning that the prolonged crisis is exerting pressure on global economic stability and directly impacting India’s strategic and humanitarian interests.
Addressing Members of Parliament, the Prime Minister observed that the ongoing conflict, now stretching beyond three weeks, has disrupted international trade flows and heightened uncertainty worldwide. He emphasized that there is a growing global consensus calling for an immediate and peaceful resolution.
Underscoring India’s deep linkage with the region, Modi noted that a large Indian diaspora—estimated at nearly one crore—resides in Gulf countries, while Indian seafarers constitute a considerable share of crew on commercial shipping routes passing through the affected zone. In this context, he stressed that India’s concerns are both natural and significant, warranting a united national voice.
The Prime Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the region for India’s energy security, pointing out that critical supplies such as crude oil, natural gas, and fertilizers transit through the Strait of Hormuz. He acknowledged that shipping operations in the corridor have become increasingly difficult due to the conflict, but assured that the government is taking proactive steps to maintain steady fuel supplies and shield citizens from major disruptions.
Reiterating India’s long-standing diplomatic position, Modi said that dialogue remains the only sustainable path forward. He affirmed that India is actively engaging with relevant international stakeholders to promote de-escalation and ensure that tensions do not spiral further.
On the safety of Indian nationals, the Prime Minister informed the House that extensive support mechanisms have been activated, including continuous coordination through Indian missions, helplines, and evacuation measures where required.
Highlighting the government’s preparedness, Modi said authorities are closely tracking developments and implementing both immediate and long-term strategies to mitigate economic fallout and safeguard supply chains. He called for collective vigilance and cooperation across sectors to navigate the evolving situation.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to peace and humanitarian principles, asserting that protecting human lives must remain paramount and that all efforts should be directed towards an early resolution of the conflict.
23, Mar 2026
PepsiCo India Boosts Water Security, Restoring 1.48 Billion Litres Through Watershed and Community Initiatives
- Marks World Water Day with a continued focus on water stewardship through Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management and community-driven Water & WASH initiatives
- Driven by its ‘Partnership of Progress’ philosophy, efforts span watershed management, groundwater recharge, and enhanced access to safe water
Marking World Water Day, PepsiCo India reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to advance water stewardship, announcing that it replenished 1.48 billion litres of water in 2025. This reflects the company’s continued focus on sustainable water resource management. To commemorate the day, the company also released a special video highlighting its Jal Jeevan Melas, bringing its water stewardship efforts to life through meaningful, on-ground impact.
Aligned with its ‘Partnership of Progress’ philosophy, PepsiCo India’s water stewardship approach focuses on improving water-use efficiency, replenishing local water sources, and enabling access to safe water for communities. The company’s efforts are driven through its Sustainable Water Resource Development and Management (SWRDM) program and community-focused Safe Water Access & WASH initiatives, implemented in partnership with organizations such as Alternative Development Initiatives (ADI) and Pandit Jagat Ram Memorial FORCE Trust.
PepsiCo India’s SWRDM program adopts a science-led, watershed-based approach to groundwater recharge, with interventions across Channo (Punjab), Pune (Maharashtra), and Kosi (Uttar Pradesh). Through geo-hydrological planning and the creation of rainwater harvesting structures, the program aims to enhance water availability while supporting local ecosystems and agricultural communities. These efforts have also empowered over 89,000 community members by improving access to water, promoting sustainable agriculture, and strengthening climate-resilient livelihoods, enabled through SHG formation, improved farming practices, and drought mitigation initiatives across these regions.
Complementing these efforts, the company also continues to drive community safe water access and sanitation programs. In partnership with FORCE Trust, PepsiCo India has been working to strengthen rural water security through its Water & WASH initiatives. Building on the success of its work in Mathura, where safe water access and sanitation solutions have already transformed multiple villages, the program is being expanded to reach 100,000 residents across 30 villages, further amplifying its impact.
Speaking on this, Yashika Singh, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Sustainability Head, PepsiCo India and South Asia, said, “At PepsiCo India, water stewardship is central to how we approach sustainability, focused on using less, reusing more, and replenishing what we use. Across our operations, we are adopting innovative solutions to improve water efficiency, while working with communities to support groundwater recharge and sustainable water management. In 2025, we replenished 1.4 billion litres of water, recharging groundwater across key locations such as Channo, Kosi, and Pune, and positively impacting over 89,000 people. Through our Partnership of Progress approach, we are working closely with communities and local institutions to turn intent into impact. When solutions are built collaboratively, they become more sustainable, inclusive, and built to last.”
Through its integrated approach, PepsiCo India continues to advance water stewardship by combining infrastructure development, community engagement, and scientific water management practices. These efforts also contribute to improved livelihoods, agricultural resilience, and greater community participation in managing local water resources. The company remains committed to scaling its efforts through strong partnerships and innovative solutions, ensuring that water stewardship continues to drive meaningful impact for both people and the planet.
Watch the video here.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $94 billion in net revenue in 2025, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and drinks, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that places sustainability at the center of our business strategy, seeking to drive growth and build a stronger, more resilient future for PepsiCo and the communities where we operate. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.
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23, Mar 2026
Nexus Hyderabad Hosted Electrifying Live Performance by Sanam Puri
Hyderabad, Mar 23: Nexus Hyderabad witnessed an unforgettable evening as renowned singer Sanam Puri took center stage for a high-energy live performance on March 22 at 7:30 PM.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of music lovers who came together for an immersive, sing-along experience. With soulful renditions and crowd-favourite tracks, the audience resonated with every note, turning the evening into a vibrant celebration of music and nostalgia.
The concert highlighted Nexus Hyderabad’s commitment to curating engaging, experience-led events that go beyond retail, transforming the destination into a dynamic hub for entertainment and community engagement.
With strong attendance and an electric atmosphere, the event further reinforced the growing appeal of live music experiences in the city and Nexus’ role in bringing such curated experiences to its audiences.
23, Mar 2026
ELIVAAS named ‘Brand of the Year 2026’ at MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards
ELIVAAS, backed by Peak XV Partners, Vertex Ventures, and 3one4 Capital, Wins ‘Brand of the Year 2026’ at MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards
New Delhi, March 23: ELIVAAS, a rapidly emerging name in India’s premium villa hospitality segment, has been recognised as the Brand of the Year 2026 at the MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey within just its second financial year of inception.
The brand was nominated across multiple categories, including Traveller’s Choice – Brand, India’s Favourite Villa, India’s Favourite Farmhouse, and India’s Favourite Pet-Friendly homestays award. The team also extends its gratitude to MakeMyTrip for its continued partnership and support in building the homestays ecosystem.
“Being recognised as Brand of the Year is a strong validation of the trust our guests and home owners have placed in ELIVAAS in a relatively short period of time. Our focus has always been on delivering consistently high-quality, experience-led stays, and this recognition encourages us to further strengthen our presence across India while continuing to elevate the villa hospitality segment,” said Ritwik Khare, the Founder and CEO of ELIVAAS.
Backed by Peak XV Partners, Vertex Ventures, and 3one4 Capital, ELIVAAS has rapidly scaled its operations and strengthened its position in the premium villa category.
This recognition places ELIVAAS alongside some of the most established names in the hospitality sector, underlining its rapid rise as a category leader in the luxury villa space. Founded just three years ago, the brand has already hosted over 3 lakh guests across more than 40 cities, while maintaining a consistently high 95 percent 5-star review rating.
ELIVAAS has built its positioning around curated, experience-led stays that combine privacy, comfort, and personalised service. Its offerings extend beyond accommodation, with thoughtfully designed guest experiences such as private dining setups, wellness therapies, and bespoke celebrations, aimed at creating memorable stays.
The award also reflects the brand’s evolution from individual property excellence to a more holistic hospitality offering across markets. It builds on earlier recognitions, including category wins at previous editions of the MakeMyTrip Homestays Awards.
With this recognition, ELIVAAS aims to expand its footprint further while continuing to refine its offerings for the evolving preferences of premium travellers.
23, Mar 2026
Zee Business Announces the Return of Wealth Creation Week to Guide Investors Amid Global Market Volatility
Mar 23: Amid growing geopolitical tensions and global market uncertainty, Zee Business, India’s trusted leader in business news, has announced the return of Wealth Creation Week, a special programming initiative aimed at helping investors navigate volatile markets and identify long-term wealth-building opportunities. Scheduled to air from 23rd March 2026 to 27th March 2026, the initiative will bring together leading market experts, research-backed insights and practical investment strategies to guide viewers in making informed financial decisions.
First launched in 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis, Wealth Creation Week quickly emerged as a trusted source of market guidance, helping millions of investors understand opportunities even during periods of significant economic disruption. Over the years, the initiative has evolved into a valuable platform for investors seeking clarity and direction in uncertain market conditions. As global markets continue to be influenced by geopolitical conflicts, shifting economic trends and evolving investment dynamics, Wealth Creation Week 2026 will focus on how investors can remain resilient while identifying emerging opportunities across sectors.
The special programming series will feature expert-led shows such as Wealth Creation Pick, Wealth Creator Research, and exclusive conversations with successful investors. These segments will decode market trends, highlight promising sectors and offer actionable insights for both new and experienced investors looking to strengthen their long-term investment strategies.
Through in-depth discussions and market analysis, the initiative will help viewers better understand evolving market movements while equipping them with practical ideas to build sustainable wealth over time.
Anil Singhvi, Managing Editor, Zee Business, said,
“In today’s fast-moving economic environment, where global developments can influence markets almost instantly, access to credible and timely financial information has become more important than ever. Investors increasingly look to trusted platforms that not only report market movements but also provide context, expert perspectives and clarity around complex financial trends. As a leading financial news platform, Zee Business remains committed to strengthening informed financial discourse and equipping audiences with reliable insights that help them take a more disciplined, long-term approach to wealth creation.”
With markets constantly evolving, Wealth Creation Week continues Zee Business’ commitment to empowering investors with credible insights, expert perspectives and strategic ideas to build sustainable wealth even in uncertain times.
23, Mar 2026
JBCN Education Appoints The Other Circle To Lead Strategic Communications Mandate
JBCN Education has appointed Mumbai-based communications agency The Other Circle (TOC) to lead its public relations and strategic communications mandate. The partnership marks a new phase of growth for the progressive K–12 institution as it leads conversations around progressive education in India.
Known for its distinctive EduCreative learning philosophy, JBCN Education blends strong academic foundations with experiential learning, creativity, and values-led development. The approach balances intellectual rigour with emotional intelligence and social awareness. Learners are encouraged to question, collaborate, and explore beyond the classroom, building the skills and character needed for an interconnected world.
Under the mandate, TOC will shape and amplify JBCN Education’s communications narrative through educator-led thought leadership, media engagement, and strategic storytelling. Beyond visibility, the partnership aims to foster deeper dialogue with parents, educators, and the wider academic community on what meaningful learning looks like today.
Nikhil Sharma, Senior Vice President, Marketing, JBCN Education said:
“Every institution has a unique narrative, one filled with innovative learning, passionate faculty, and the next generation of Changemakers. The Other Circle’s strategic approach and deep familiarity with the education sector make them the right partner to strengthen our brand presence and forge meaningful connections with audiences who share our vision.”
Aakanksha Gupta, Co-founder & CEO, The Other Circle Group of Companies, added:
“The best communications work happens when the story is already true — you just have to find the right way to tell it. JBCN Education represents a powerful shift in how learning is imagined and delivered in India, and that story is rich: a philosophy that’s lived in the classroom, educators who believe in it, and outcomes that speak for themselves. Our role is to bring that into the wider public conversation in a way that is credible, sustained, and genuinely useful to the people it reaches.”
Over the years, JBCN Education has built a reputation for nurturing curious, confident learners through a culture that values inquiry, collaboration, and innovation. Globally, the most respected schools have evolved beyond delivering curriculum. They have become institutions that actively shape conversations on how children learn, grow, and prepare for the future. JBCN Education’s journey reflects a similar commitment – and its partnership with TOC will amplify that thinking across the education conversation.
