Category Archives: News

IT’S BACK. THAT’S BIG. The All-Electric smart #2 Makes Its World Premiere at the Paris Motor Show

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — smart today celebrated the World Premiere of the all-new smart #2 at the Paris Motor Show, marking the return of its iconic two-seater for a new electric era.

Thirty years ago, the smart vehicle was presented as an art object beneath the Louvre Pyramid. Today, smart returns to Paris with the fully realised production smart #2.

Mr. Tong Xiangbei, Global CEO of smart, said: “The smart #2 is more than the return of a familiar silhouette; it is a demonstration of what our teams can achieve in the most demanding urban segment. Its World Premiere in Paris, followed by launches in Europe and China, opens an important new chapter for our global product family.”

Mr. Kang Yi, Global CMO of smart, said: “The smart #2 expresses our core D.N.A. in a very pure way: Designed with Love, No Compromise on Safety, and Amazing Drives. It is small in footprint, but big in personality.”

An Icon for a New Generation

Styled by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design Team, the smart #2 translates the character of smart’s iconic two-seater into a contemporary new form, guided by its design philosophy of Love, Pure, Unexpected.

Clean proportions, short overhangs and its signature wheels-at-the-corners stance preserve the pure smart silhouette and maximise space. Unexpected details, including logo-inspired lighting and a contemporary interpretation of the iconic floating roof, reinterpret familiar smart cues.

Inside, bench-style seating and S-shaped cockpit make efficient use of the compact cabin, while carefully considered colours, materials and distinctive details bring warmth and individuality.

The Split Tailgate features an upper glass that opens independently in tight spaces, and a lower section that folds down as a loading platform or a 120-kg capacity seat.

smart #2 Couture Edition: Function becomes Fashion

As a surprise highlight, smart also unveiled the exclusive smart #2 Couture Edition, carrying the established “Function becomes Fashion” theme from concept to production.

Limited to 999 units in Europe and 999 units in China, the Couture Edition combines an Atelier White Matte exterior finish with a contrasting Platinum Gold roof, distinctive gold detailing and exclusive 16-inch Lyra rims. A numbered interior badge further underlines its limited-edition character.

Purpose-Built for Urban Mobility

Underpinning the smart #2 is the newly developed Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform, engineered specifically for smart’s ultra-compact all-electric two-seater.

Measuring 2,746 mm in length, the smart #2 maximises usable space within its ultra-compact footprint. The ECA platform brings together intelligent packaging, a floor-mounted high-voltage battery, rear-wheel drive and advanced chassis technology.

Power comes from a rear-mounted 60 kW electric motor delivering 130 Nm of torque to the rear wheels.

For Europe, the smart #2 features a 35.8 kWh LFP battery, with a target combined WLTP range of 290 km. Supporting 65 kW DC fast charging, the smart #2 can charge from 10% to 80% state of charge within 20 minutes, while AC charging at up to 11 kW supports convenient everyday charging.

A curb-to-curb turning circle of just 6.95 metres makes navigating tight city streets and narrow parking spaces effortless.

The smart #2 features a five-link rear suspension, a first in its class, supporting confident and composed driving both in cities and on highways.

Central to the smart #2, the Tridion Cell Evo creates a robust protective structure around the passenger cabin without compromising the vehicle’s compact dimensions. The vehicle also comes equipped with driver-assistance technologies including smart Pilot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go and Highway Assist.

The smart #2 Begins Its Global Market Rollout

Following its World Premiere in Paris, early ordering for the smart #2 will begin in Europe and China, bringing smart’s iconic two-seater to two of the brand’s key markets.

For Europe, the smart #2 will initially be offered in three core trim lines — Pure, Pure+ and Premium — alongside the limited Couture Edition.

For China, the smart #2 will be unveiled in Premium and Couture Edition variants.

Market-specific line-ups, pricing, specifications, equipment and availability will be communicated locally.

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HR Path accelerates its Artificial Intelligence strategy with the acquisition of SnapAI

PARIS, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, announces the acquisition of SnapAI, a start-up specialising in Artificial Intelligence and regulatory compliance. This acquisition strengthens HR Path’s expertise in a strategic field for the future of Human Resources and accelerates the development of its AI-based offerings and solutions.

Operating in 34 countries with nearly 2,900 employees, HR Path supports companies in transforming their HR function through its three service lines: Advise, Implement and Outsource. Since its creation in 2001, the Group has placed technological innovation at the heart of its development and supports clients in evolving their organisations, processes and HR technologies.

AI: a major opportunity to transform Human Resources

HR Path sees Artificial Intelligence as a major opportunity to transform professions, enhance the employee experience and create new sources of value for companies.

This vision is based on a strong ethos: AI should reduce repetitive tasks, augment teams’ capabilities and free up more time for high-value activities. It also gives employees the opportunity to develop new skills and focus on more rewarding assignments.

To accelerate this momentum, HR Path has created a Task Force dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, bringing together expertise from across the Group to explore AI use cases and opportunities.

HR Path has also recently launched a dedicated AI offering to support clients in their transformation. It includes assessing AI maturity and HR data, identifying and prioritising use cases, transforming HR processes, driving adoption and skills development, and defining roadmaps to generate and measure the value created.

HR Path’s ambition is to make AI a common theme across its entire portfolio: in Advise, to support organisations in defining their AI strategy and transformation; in Implement, to activate and integrate new AI capabilities within HR solutions; and in Outsource, to automate selected activities and continuously improve HR operations.

SnapAI: a new milestone in HR Path’s AI ambition

The acquisition of SnapAI is fully aligned with this strategy. It enables HR Path to strengthen its expertise and accelerate its ability to turn rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence into practical solutions that create value for its clients. AI applications in recruitment, assessment and employee management are among the systems classified as high-risk under the European AI Act. SnapAI’s expertise in governance and compliance enables HR Path to support clients in deploying AI in a way that is both ambitious and controlled.

Contact:

Fabienne LATOUR

Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com

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Rayagada Division Landslide Disrupts Rail Services in Odisha; Several Trains Cancelled Till October 21

Koraput, Oct. 12 (UDN): Train services in Odisha’s Rayagada railway division have been disrupted following a landslide between MVG and CTS stations, prompting the East Coast Railway (ECoR) to cancel several trains and modify the routes of others.

 Representational Image 

According to a railway bulletin, the changes will affect multiple express and passenger services connecting Visakhapatnam, Kirandul, Jagdalpur, Rourkela, Howrah and Bhubaneswar. Passengers travelling on the affected routes have been advised to check the latest service updates before leaving for their journey.

Four Express Trains Cancelled

The following trains have been cancelled for the specified dates:

18515 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express: October 13 to 20.

18516 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Express: October 13 to 20.

18107 Rourkela–Jagdalpur Express: October 13 to 20.

18108 Jagdalpur–Rourkela Express: October 14 to 21.

Other Trains to Run on Restricted Routes

Several other services will operate with changes to their originating or terminating stations.

18005 Howrah–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.

18006 Jagdalpur–Howrah Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 15 to 22.

18447 Bhubaneswar–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.

18448 Jagdalpur–Bhubaneswar Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 14 to 21.

58501 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.

58502 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger: Will originate from Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.

The affected services will not operate between Koraput and Jagdalpur during the respective periods.

Additional Traffic Block on KK Line

Separately, railway authorities have given in-principle approval for an eight-hour traffic block at DPC Yard on the KK line in the Rayagada division on October 13. The block is linked to the proposed launch of a Limited Height Subway (LHS).

Due to this arrangement, Train Nos. 58501 and 58502, scheduled to operate on October 13, will instead terminate and originate at Araku, respectively, rather than Koraput, as previously notified.

Passengers Advised to Check Updates

Railway authorities have urged passengers to verify train schedules and operational changes before travelling. Updates will be available through station notice boards, public announcement systems, media reports, bulk SMS alerts and official railway websites and apps.

Passengers using the Koraput–Jagdalpur route should pay particular attention to the revised arrangements to avoid inconvenience during the disruption.

SPJIMR #2 in India and #15 globally in Financial Times’ teaching cases rankings

Recognition highlights the role of teaching cases in translating management scholarship into practice; SPJIMR advances the conversation on research impact through TASIC 2027

MUMBAI, India, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How can business schools demonstrate that research matters beyond academia? In his recent article, ‘Business school research with impact, ranked’, Andrew Jack, Financial Times (FT) Global Education Editor, examines the challenge of assessing how academic work influences business practice and public policy. Among the approaches explored is the reach of teaching cases, which bring research and real-world business dilemmas into the classroom, shaping how future leaders think and make decisions.

The question is also explored by SPJIMR through a paper by Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, ‘Making Management Research Matter: A Dean’s Reflection on Translation, Diffusion, Crossover, and ROI‘. It examines how management scholarship can move beyond publication to inform practice and create meaningful impact.

In this context, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) has ranked second in India and 15th globally in the FT 2026 rankings of the world’s most popular teaching cases. SPJIMR features alongside leading global institutions, including Harvard Business School, Western University’s Ivey Business School, the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, INSEAD and Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, among others. 

Commenting on the recognition, Prof. Varun Nagaraj, Dean, SPJIMR, said, “The question for management education is not simply how much research we produce, but whether it addresses problems that matter and influences practice. The global reach of our teaching cases, many rooted in Indian contexts, reflects how scholarship can shape how people think and make decisions. Through TASIC 2027, we hope to advance the wider conversation on research impact. The multi-track conference includes a unique session on teaching cases, recognising those with the potential to challenge assumptions and change how students think. This is part of a broader effort to explore how engaged management scholarship can inform industry, influence practice and address consequential real-world challenges.”

The FT’s second annual assessment recognises a form of academic contribution that extends beyond conventional research publication citation metrics: the development of learning materials used by educators and students in business school classrooms worldwide. The analysis draws on data provided by five leading teaching case publishers and distributors: CEIBS, Harvard Business Impact, IESE Publishing, Ivey Publishing and The Case Centre, which publish their own cases or distribute those of others. It also considers authorship by faculty at schools featured in recent FT rankings.

While no single measure can fully capture the influence of research on business and policy, the reach of teaching cases offers one indication of how academic ideas enter management education and potentially inform decisions beyond the classroom.

The recognition builds on SPJIMR’s sustained focus on connecting scholarly rigour with real-world relevance. This focus on research impact will continue through TASIC 3.0, The Asia-Pacific Scholarly Impact Conference, scheduled for 25–27 February 2027 at SPJIMR, Mumbai. Grounded in the principles of engaged management scholarship and impact pathways, the conference will bring researchers and practitioners together to explore how they can co-create knowledge, translate academic insights into action and address consequential challenges in industry and policy.

Congratulations to SPJIMR faculty on this recognition and their continued contribution to management learning worldwide.

For more news and updates from SPJIMR, visit our Newsroom.

About SPJIMR

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR) is one of India’s leading postgraduate management institutes. It is recognised in the Financial Times Masters in Management 2026 ranking as the #26 business school globally and #2 in India and in the Financial Times Global MBA 2026 ranking as the #74 business school globally for its PGPM programme. SPJIMR is also consistently ranked among India’s top business schools by leading publications, including Business Today, Fortune India, India Today, and MBAUniverse. It has also been recognised by the Positive Impact Rating as one of the world’s top five business schools for societal impact. Known for its innovative and socially conscious approach to management education, research, and community engagement, SPJIMR seeks to influence managerial practice and enable value-based growth for students, alumni, organisations, and society. The institute holds the international Triple Crown of accreditations from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA, placing it among a select group of business schools worldwide to hold all three accreditations.

Visit SPJIMR.org for more information. 

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KuCoin Unveils 5.0, Building Trust into Every Layer of the User Experience

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin, a leading global crypto platform built on trust, today unveiled KuCoin 5.0, a comprehensive platform upgrade designed to make trust tangible across the way users trade, manage assets and interact with the platform.

KuCoin 5.0 is the product expression of the global brand initiative “Trust, Built-in.” Introduced under KuCoin’s enduring “Trust First. Trade Next.” proposition, the upgrade spans six areas—Compliance, Technology, Assets, Experience, AI and Wealth Management—bringing them together around a more unified, efficient and user-centered platform experience rather than centering on a single feature.

Among the most visible changes in KuCoin 5.0 are a redesigned experience that creates clearer paths for different types of users; an AI service layer that extends across the platform; and more flexible ways to trade, manage and put assets to work. Underneath these user-facing changes, KuCoin is also strengthening the technology, compliance and asset foundations that support the platform as it continues to evolve.

A Clearer, More Inclusive Experience

KuCoin 5.0 makes everyday use of the platform clearer and more flexible. Profile Center 2.0 introduces a cleaner visual design and a card-based layout that makes information and frequently used functions easier to find. The upgraded sub-account system streamlines account creation, strengthens security controls and improves sub-account management. Enhanced K-line charts offer more practical tools and real-time data, with settings that sync across devices to help users follow the market more efficiently.

KuCoin 5.0 also introduces a color vision accessibility mode, making charts and other visual information easier to distinguish for users with different color vision needs. An estimated 360 million people worldwide experience some degree of difficulty distinguishing colors. By offering a clearer visual experience, KuCoin aims to make the platform more accessible to more users. The Lite and Pro experiences offer paths suited to different levels of familiarity and trading needs.

For users with more advanced trading needs, KuCoin 5.0 introduces the Unified Trading Account (UTA), now available to eligible KuCoin users at VIP1 and above. UTA brings spot, margin and futures trading into a shared framework for funds, margin and risk management. This reduces the need to transfer funds between separate accounts and supports more efficient use of capital across eligible products.

AI That Extends Across the User Journey

KuCoin 5.0 introduces a major upgrade to AI Assistant 5.0, creating a unified AI entry point that brings together conversations, Q&A and task completion across the platform. Spanning market insights, Earn, trading, customer support and campaigns, the assistant uses page context and user actions to better understand what users need, recommend relevant services and help them complete tasks.

Making Assets Work More Efficiently

KuCoin 5.0 connects earning and trading more closely through exclusive wealth management products and benefits for VIP users, Earn access through sub-accounts, and support for selected wealth assets within the Unified Trading Account framework. Main accounts and sub-accounts can participate in Earn while managing funds separately, while KCUSD can be used as margin within the Unified Trading Account, reducing the need to move funds repeatedly between earning and trading activities.

These user-facing changes are supported by continued development across KuCoin’s Compliance, Technology and Assets foundations. Together, the six upgrade areas form a platform designed to remain straightforward where possible and provide greater control where needed.

“Trust should be something users can experience in every interaction—not only in how their assets are protected, but in how clearly, reliably and efficiently the platform works,” said BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin. “KuCoin 5.0 is an important step in translating our long-term commitment to trust into the product itself. By bringing our core capabilities into a more connected, intuitive and intelligent platform, we are giving users greater confidence and control today while building the foundation for the next stage of digital finance.”

KuCoin 5.0 establishes the foundation for the platform’s next phase of development. By connecting trading, asset management and intelligent services through a clearer experience, KuCoin is building a platform designed for how users participate today and how digital finance will continue to evolve.

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.

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NHAI Plants 5.20 Lakh Saplings Across Odisha, Focuses on Medicinal Forests and Bee Corridors

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has planted around 5.20 lakh saplings across Odisha over the past four months as part of a series of environmental initiatives aimed at expanding green cover, protecting biodiversity and supporting pollinators.

 Representational Image 

The plantation drive includes medicinal gardens, bee-friendly corridors, greenery along highway medians and community-based planting programmes, reflecting efforts to integrate environmental conservation with highway infrastructure development.

Arogya Van to Preserve Medicinal Plants

Under its Arogya Van initiative, NHAI has planted 2,500 medicinal saplings at Kunduli in Koraput district along the Raipur–Visakhapatnam Economic Corridor (NH-130CD).

The plantation features traditional medicinal species such as Bahada, Neem, Harida and Amla. The initiative seeks to conserve indigenous plants while highlighting their ecological and medicinal significance.

NHAI plans to develop medicinal green spaces on suitable vacant land along national highways. These areas are expected to provide habitats for birds and small wildlife, support pollinators and improve ecological resilience.

Bee Corridors to Support Pollinators

As part of its Bee Corridor Plantation initiative, NHAI has planted at least 39,337 saplings of species including Neem, Spathodea, Arjun, Patoli, Kadamba, Tabebuia rosea and Radhachuda.

The initiative aims to create more pollinator-friendly stretches along highway corridors, helping strengthen local biodiversity.

Highway Medians and Community Plantations

The greening campaign also covers highway medians, where 87,338 plants have been planted. Species such as Bougainvillea, Tecoma, Calliandra and Caesalpinia have been selected to enhance the appearance and ecological value of highway stretches.

In addition, the authority has planted 6,000 bamboo saplings and undertaken community plantation activities involving another 7,097 plants.

Plantation drives have also been extended to schools, colleges and other community spaces to encourage public participation in environmental protection and expand green cover beyond highway land.

Green Infrastructure Push

Through medicinal plantations, pollinator-friendly corridors and community greening programmes, NHAI aims to make highway development more environmentally sustainable.

The initiatives are expected to contribute to biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness while improving greenery along Odisha’s national highway network.

BJP National Leader Saudan Singh Begins Three-Day Odisha Visit Ahead of Local Body Polls

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stepped up its organisational preparations for the upcoming panchayat and municipal elections in Odisha, with party National Joint Organisation General Secretary Saudan Singh beginning a three-day visit to the state.

During his visit, Singh is scheduled to interact with senior party leaders, elected representatives and grassroots workers to strengthen the organisation and assess its preparedness for the upcoming local body polls.

According to reports, Singh arrived in Odisha on Sunday and visited Puri to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath before proceeding to the BJP state headquarters in Bhubaneswar.

His visit comes amid renewed organisational activity within the state unit following the appointment of Daggubati Purandeswari as the BJP’s state in-charge and Swadesh Singh as co-in-charge. The two leaders recently held discussions with party office-bearers on organisational matters.

Senior Leaders Expected to Meet Saudan Singh

BJP Odisha president Manmohan Samal and other senior party leaders are expected to hold discussions with Singh during his stay. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with ministers, MLAs and MPs, may also meet the national leader, depending on their availability.

The interactions are expected to focus on strengthening coordination within the party, improving organisational effectiveness and preparing workers for the electoral challenges ahead.

With local body elections approaching, the BJP is seeking to reinforce its organisational network and improve coordination between its leadership and grassroots cadres.

Manmohan Samal Highlights Singh’s Organisational Experience

Speaking about the visit, state BJP president Manmohan Samal said Singh’s extensive experience in organisational affairs would benefit the party’s expansion and election preparations in Odisha.

Samal noted that Singh had handled organisational responsibilities across several states over the years and said his guidance would help strengthen the party’s structure and improve its readiness for the upcoming polls.

He expressed confidence that Singh’s experience would contribute to building a stronger organisation in the state.

Party Workers to Interact With National Leader

A key component of Singh’s programme at the BJP state headquarters is interaction with party workers, including those who have recently joined the organisation.

Rather than being limited to formal meetings, the programme is intended to give workers an opportunity to introduce themselves, share their views and raise organisational concerns directly with the national leader.

The interactions are expected to help the party leadership understand grassroots-level issues and identify areas requiring greater attention ahead of the local elections.

Singh’s three-day visit is part of the BJP’s broader organisational efforts to consolidate its position in Odisha and strengthen its election preparedness through closer engagement with leaders and workers across the state.

CM Majhi Backs SIR, Says Clean Electoral Rolls Crucial to Democratic Trust

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 12 (UDN): Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has strongly defended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, describing it as an important exercise to safeguard electoral integrity, ensure fair representation and strengthen public confidence in democracy.

 Representational Image 

In a post on his X handle on Monday, Majhi said free and fair elections are the foundation of a strong democracy and stressed that accurate electoral rolls are essential to protecting the voting rights of every eligible citizen.

He pointed out that duplicate entries, outdated information and the names of deceased persons remaining on voter lists can undermine the accuracy of electoral records. Maintaining clean and updated rolls, he said, is not merely an administrative requirement but a key step towards ensuring credible elections.

SIR Must Ensure Accuracy Without Excluding Eligible Voters

Majhi said the SIR exercise plays an important role in identifying discrepancies, removing duplicate entries and updating voter details following deaths or changes in residence.

However, he emphasised that the process must also ensure that no eligible voter is unfairly excluded from the electoral rolls.

“These are not minor administrative details; they go to the heart of electoral fairness, equal representation and the sanctity of every vote,” the Chief Minister stated.

He underlined that electoral roll revision must be conducted with fairness, due diligence and appropriate safeguards to protect the rights of legitimate voters.

CM Highlights Importance of Public Confidence

The Chief Minister maintained that reliable electoral records are fundamental to the credibility of the democratic process. He said effective implementation of the revision exercise would help ensure that voter lists accurately reflect the eligible electorate.

Majhi also stressed that a transparent and carefully conducted process would strengthen public confidence in electoral institutions and reinforce trust in democratic governance.

His remarks come amid an ongoing nationwide political debate over the Special Intensive Revision being conducted by the Election Commission of India.

Odisha’s Final Electoral Roll Records 3.16 Crore Electors

In Odisha, the final electoral roll published following the SIR process recorded approximately 3.16 crore electors, according to the information provided.

The revision exercise aims to improve the accuracy of electoral records while ensuring that eligible citizens retain their right to vote.

Majhi reiterated that maintaining reliable voter lists, while protecting legitimate voters from wrongful exclusion, is essential to upholding electoral fairness and ensuring that every vote carries its rightful significance.

Bybit Supports Stocks Trading, Giving Eligible Global Users Access to 1,000+ U.S. Stocks and ETFs

DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the New Financial Platform trusted by more than 80 million users worldwide, announced that stocks are now available for trading through Bybit, giving eligible users access to more than 1,000 U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs, including Apple (AAPL), NVIDIA (NVDA), Tesla (TSLA), Micron Technology (MU) and the Invesco QQQ ETF (QQQ).

The development expands Bybit’s multi-asset platform, bringing access to U.S. equities alongside its existing digital asset and traditional market offerings. Eligible users in permitted jurisdictions who have completed the required KYC verification can trade supported U.S. stocks and ETFs using USDC.

“Stocks are an important part of our evolution into The New Financial Platform. Financial markets have long been separated across different products and platforms, but users increasingly expect a more connected experience,” said Ben Zhou, Co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “With stocks now available through Bybit, we are doing more than adding another asset class. We are giving people broader access to financial markets and greater freedom to pursue opportunities.”

Access to the U.S. Stocks and ETFs

Stocks trading enables eligible users to buy and sell supported U.S. stocks and ETFs using USDC, bringing equity exposure into the same environment used for digital assets. Unlike price derivatives or synthetic instruments, Stocks trading gives eligible users an economic interest in the underlying securities they purchase.

Orders are routed through Bybit’s regulated brokerage infrastructure and executed through Alpaca, a U.S. self-clearing broker-dealer and a global leader in agent-first infrastructure. Additionally, the underlying securities are held in custody by Alpaca.

“Bybit’s expansion into U.S. stocks and ETFs is a major step forward in offering its global users a more complete, multi-asset trading experience,” said Yoshi Yokokawa, Co-Founder and CEO of Alpaca. “We’re thrilled to partner with Bybit and help power this next wave of global market access.”

Key features at launch include:

• 1,000+ U.S. stocks and ETFs, including widely traded companies with fractional shares available for eligible securities
• Trade with USDC, allowing eligible users to fund stock purchases directly from their Bybit account
• Direct economic exposure to underlying stocks, rather than derivatives or synthetic price exposure
• Allowing users to manage eligible crypto and equity positions within the Bybit ecosystem
• Corporate-action support, including cash and stock dividends and stock splits
• 24/5 trading, providing access during U.S. pre-market, regular and after-hours sessions, subject to product availability
• Zero commission, with no trading commissions charged on eligible stock purchases and sales

Eligible holders of supported U.S. stocks and ETFs can receive the economic benefits associated with their holdings, including cash and stock dividends, subject to applicable security and corporate-action terms. Cash dividends are converted from USD into USDC and credited to the user’s Unified Trading Account (UTA), while stock dividends are reflected directly in the user’s position.

Stock splits are also reflected in users’ holdings in accordance with the applicable corporate action. Voting rights are planned for launch in a future phase.

Building a Broader Multi-Asset Platform

The addition of stock services adds to the exchange’s growing range of products across traditional and digital markets. Alongside crypto spot and derivatives trading, Bybit offers access to traditional markets through its MT5 platform, tokenized equities and TradFi perpetuals.

“We believe the next chapter of finance is one where the walls between crypto and traditional markets no longer exist. Bybit is built to operate in both worlds and proves that tokenizing real-world assets at scale is not a future ambition. It is something we are delivering today,” added Ben.

Disclaimer

Bybit Stocks: Bybit Stocks service is provided by Infra Capital Limited (introducing broker), regulated by the Financial Services Commission, Mauritius (GB23202169). US securities clearing,settlement and custody services are provided by Alpaca Securities LLC((dba “Alpaca Clearing”),a FINRA/SIPC member. Some corporate actions may be restricted at this time. Access and ownership subject to the Bybit Stocks Terms & Conditions. Capital at risk – you may get back less than you invested. Please read the Risk Disclosures before investing.

#Bybit  / #NewFinancialPlatform 

About Bybit

Bybit is The New Financial Platform.

We believe every person should have access to every financial opportunity on earth. That’s why we’re building the first intelligent platform that connects anyone, anywhere to the world’s finance.

Trusted by more than 80 million users worldwide, Bybit brings together investing, trading, payments, and wealth-building in a single secure and intelligent ecosystem. Through the combination of AI-powered technology, deep global liquidity, robust security, and transparent operations, Bybit makes global finance more accessible, efficient, and empowering for everyone.

Built for everyone. Powered by intelligence. Open to the world.

Learn more at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

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Mark Your Calendars: Abu Dhabi Unveils Its Spectacular Events Season

From the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi and the vibrant NOMAD Abu Dhabi to the thrill of the Formula 1 ® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the iconic Liwa International Festival, Abu Dhabi unveils an electrifying and diverse events calendar.  

ABU DHABI, UAE, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Abu Dhabi’s events season is officially underway showcasing more than 40 world-class spectacles that will captivate audiences across the emirate through early 2027. 

Experience Abu Dhabi presents one of its most dynamic and exhilarating entertainment and cultural line up to date. Headline events include the Yasalam After-Race Concerts featuring acts like Lewis Capaldi and Alex Warren alongside performances throughout 2026 by Anyma, Tamer Hosny and Tamer Ashour. These experiences complement major global highlights, including Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and Frieze Abu Dhabi. 

Expect a range of events across culture, sport, music, family entertainment and lifestyle experiences, promising unforgettable moments for all. This season also highlights renowned global events, including Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Showdown Week and UFC alongside major new cultural experiences, including the opening of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, marking an exciting new chapter for the emirate’s cultural landscape.

Here’s a look at what’s on:

Culture: Art, Heritage and Immersive Experiences

Abu Dhabi’s cultural programme brings together the emirate’s rich heritage and world-class cultural institutions, with landmark exhibitions, immersive experiences, and programmes that invite audiences to discover, engage and connect with culture in new ways.

Unmissable Art and Culture

• Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial: Returning with new commissions, the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial opens on 23 October in Al Ain Region followed by Abu Dhabi from 15 November, with works remaining on display into 2027. The Biennial brings contemporary art into public spaces across the emirate, creating opportunities for audiences to experience art as part of everyday life.
• Culture Summit Abu Dhabi: Taking place from 8-10 December at Manarat Al Saadiyat and across Saadiyat Cultural District, Culture Summit Abu Dhabi brings together cultural leaders, artists, policymakers and thinkers from around the world. Under the theme Towards a Reimagined Commons, this year’s programme explores the role of culture in shaping shared memories, spaces and futures.
• Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: One of the defining moments of 2026 is the opening of Guggenheim Abu Dhabi on 11 December. Designed by the late Frank Gehry, the new museum on Saadiyat Island will be dedicated to modern and contemporary art, adding another major institution to Saadiyat Cultural District and further strengthening its position as a global destination for culture and the arts.  

Vibrant Cultural Festivals and World-class Fairs

• Traditional Handicrafts Festival: Celebrating the skills and traditions that have shaped Emirati cultural identity, the Traditional Handicrafts Festival brings together master artisans, live craft demonstrations and a vibrant cultural market from 23 October – 11 November. The festival offers audiences an opportunity to discover and engage with these living traditions, while supporting their transmission to new generations.
• NOMAD Abu Dhabi: An immersive international art and design fair, NOMAD Abu Dhabi will take place from 18 – 22 November at Terminal 1 of the Old Abu Dhabi Airport. Bringing together collectors, curators and cultural leaders, the fair showcases collectible design, contemporary art and architecture inside a unique historic setting.
• Frieze Abu Dhabi: Making its debut from 19 – 22 November, Frieze Abu Dhabi marks a new chapter for the emirate’s international art scene. Building on nearly two decades of Abu Dhabi Art, the inaugural fair at Manarat Al Saadiyat will connect Abu Dhabi with Frieze’s global network of galleries, artists and collectors.
• Al Hosn Festival: A renewed celebration of Abu Dhabi’s culture, Al Hosn Festival brings generations together through experiences that reflect the authenticity of Emirati traditions, crafts and local flavours. Taking place from 15 – 30 January 2027, the festival celebrates culture, community and shares experiences at Al Hosn Cultural Site

Compelling Milestones and Celebrations on the Calendar

• Maritime Heritage Festival: The Maritime Heritage Festival celebrates Abu Dhabi’s rich coastal heritage, bringing the traditions of fishing, pearl diving, seafaring, and coastal life to new generations. Now in its fifth year, the festival returns to the Corniche from 20-29 November for 10 days of live performances, artisan demonstrations, traditional storytelling and coastal cuisine.
• Al Ain Museum One-Year Anniversary: Marking one year since reopening following extensive redevelopment in October, Al Ain Museum continues to serve as a centre of knowledge on the history and heritage of Al Ain Region. Originally founded in 1969 by the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the museum was the nation’s first and now spans more than 8,000 square metres. It features newly discovered archaeological sites and exhibits exploring the ancient falaj irrigation system that made settlement in the region possible.
• Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi One-Year Anniversary: Celebrating its first year, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi continues to take people on a journey spanning 13.8 billion years of history. Visitors can discover rare fossils and marvel at Stan the T. rex, one of the world’s most complete dinosaur skeletons, alongside the museum’s unique treasures and captivating stories from our planet’s past.
• Zayed National Museum One-Year Anniversary: Marking its first anniversary, Zayed National Museum remains a landmark institution in Saadiyat Cultural District, tracing 300,000 years of human history on the land and honouring the life and vision of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, through six galleries exploring the nation’s history and heritage.

Entertainment: Music, Sport & Big-ticket Experiences

From chart-topping performances to world-class sporting action, Abu Dhabi’s entertainment line-up brings major names and events to the emirate, creating memorable experiences across some of its iconic venues.

Thrilling Headline Events

• Abu Dhabi Showdown Week (UFC): UFC®, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation, returns to Abu Dhabi this October for a week of action-packed events. At Etihad Arena, UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will defend his title against Movsar Evloev, while champion Petr Yan faces Merab Dvalishvili in a trilogy fight on 24 October. Beyond the main events, fans can catch open workouts, weigh-ins and fan zones across the city.
• Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: Since 2009, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has welcomed fans from around the world to Yas Island each year. This year’s edition takes place from 3–6 December, combining high-speed racing with one of Abu Dhabi’s biggest weeks of live entertainment. The Yasalam After-Race Concerts will feature Lewis Capaldi, Imagine Dragons, The Chainsmokers and The Script, while Anyma will headline the Official After-Party on 4 December, with more artists to be announced.
• Liwa International Festival: Taking place every December in Al Dhafra desert, Liwa International Festival brings together, adventure, motorsports, music and family entertainment around the iconic Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune at 300 metres. Previous editions have featured hot air balloon rides, farm-to-table dining, Monster Jam shows and freestyle drifting. As part of the festival, Liwa Village returns with its own mix of Emirati heritage and entertainment, from a lively marketplace and traditional performances to family-friendly activities set against the backdrop of the dunes.

Events for the Super Fans

• Saadiyat Nights: Saadiyat Nights returns for its fourth season, bringing a line-up of legendary musicians and live performances to Abu Dhabi’s iconic open-air amphitheatre on Saadiyat Island. Set against the island’s coastal backdrop, this concert series welcomes internationally acclaimed artists for memorable evenings of live entertainment under the stars.

Fun, Fashion and Laughter

• Abu Dhabi Comedy Season: Abu Dhabi Comedy Season returns to Etihad Arena on Yas Island, starting from October, bringing together a series of international comedy performances. This year’s line-up features Russell Peters, Morgan Jay, Mo Amer and Maz Jobrani, with more acts to be announced.
• Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival: Named in honour of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation Festival returns with a programme of family activities, global cuisine, live entertainment and art installations across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Region and Al Dhafra Region. Previous editions have included interactive workshops, outdoor cinema and inflatables zone, alongside more than 40 food concepts from regional and international vendors.

With more than 40 events spanning culture and entertainment from now through early 2027, Abu Dhabi’s calendar offers a diverse programme experiences for residents and visitors to discover and enjoy.



For more information on events, dates, and tickets: visitabudhabi.ae/en/events

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. 

By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dct.gov.ae and visitabudhabi.ae.

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