23, Sep 2026
Liberating force: How will AI enable our future profession?
By Venkkat Ramanan, FCMA, CGMA, Vice President -APAC, AICPA & CIMA
Artificial intelligence is not just a set of nifty time-saving tools or even a major technological advance. It is an exponential force that is disrupting our profession at a rapid rate. Accountancy and finance professionals have already embraced AI for a wide range of operational and strategic purposes from data entry and bank account reconciliation through to fraud detection, in-depth tax research and advanced financial analysis.
What’s more, despite all the gloomy predictions that AI is taking our jobs, the opposite is true. Accountancy and finance professionals remain highly sought after by employers, who believe they can better deploy their unique human skills and expertise by harnessing the power of AI. A survey by Deloitte found that finance departments globally are wrestling with a shortage of skilled staff, with 40% investing in AI and automation to address their productivity gaps. The research also found that 64% of finance leaders planned to infuse more technical skills and capabilities within their functions.
The truth is, rather than replacing us, AI is acting as a force multiplier for our profession. It is boosting our efficiency and productivity, allowing us to deliver even better results for our organisations than we could achieve as individuals or even as teams.
India offers a striking case in point. As one of the world’s fastest-moving AI markets, it is already seeing the technology reshape core finance functions. EY’s 2025 India Corporate Treasury Survey found that 82% of treasury leaders now view AI as important or critical, with applications emerging in cash forecasting, foreign-exchange risk and anomaly detection. For finance professionals, this points towards a future in which technology handles more of the processing and pattern recognition, while human judgement becomes ever more important in interpreting what the data means and what organisations should do next.
India is also moving quickly from experimentation to practical application. Deloitte’s 2025 Asia Pacific CFO Survey found that 69% of CFOs across the region are prioritising the upskilling and reskilling of their workforces for new technologies, while 49% expect generative AI to change their finance functions within two years. The opportunity for finance professionals, then, is not simply to operate these tools, but to lead with them.
Going forward, AI will continue to enable our profession by:
- Amplifying – but not replacing – our judgement. AI allows us to deliver significant new insights that can help to enhance the performance of our organisations. Nevertheless, we must avoid the temptation to give into ‘cognitive offloading’ – the practice of outsourcing our thinking and decision-making to AI tools. Instead, we should view intelligent systems as a collaborative partner – a partner that frees us up to better apply our critical thinking skills so that we find new solutions to problems and create more value through our work.
- Helping us to anticipate the future. No one can perfectly predict what will happen next, but being able to look ahead, and plan for different scenarios, is key to success in a fast-changing world. AI tools will enable us to identify and analyse important market trends so that we can support our organisations to seize opportunities and pre-solve problems before they become crises. AI tools will also enable us to embrace systems thinking so we can assess the interconnections between issues and understand the ripple effects of decisions made across our organisations.
- Showcasing our role as responsible stewards of AI technologies. By drawing on our high ethical standards and acute professional judgement, we can guide our organisations in the competent and responsible adoption of AI systems. We can also provide assurance that those systems are working reliably and as intended. It is not just at a day-to-day, operational level that we can make a difference either. We can also support our colleagues to navigate the complex moral questions created by AI and automation, to ensure our organisations retain public trust.
- Acting as a catalyst for us to evolve into strategic advisers. Our profession is on a journey from the business partner of today to the strategic adviser of the future. This journey will be enabled by AI and other cutting-edge technological tools. AI will enable us to move upstream from recording what has happened to prescribing what should happen, making our role less scorekeeper and more futurist.
AI as an enabler
Rise2040, a profession-wide research initiative launched by AICPA and CIMA, has highlighted the huge potential of AI as an enabler for the public accounting and finance profession. The initiative brings together 6,000 insights from across the globe to collectively explore, challenge and shape the future of the profession.
The research highlighted that AI can be a liberating force that automates repetitive tasks and frees up professionals to focus on higher-order advisory work, judgement and strategy. To fully harness its potential, however, we must also find ways to manage the risks it presents. These include training gaps for early-career professionals, overreliance on automation and the erosion of experiential learning.
AI will transform our profession, generating exciting opportunities for us to create new value for our organisations. To seize these opportunities, we must look forward with confidence and be prepared to continuously adapt. We should also remain mindful that AI is the entry point to the future – not the endpoint.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
23, Sep 2026
A Full Moon for Every Child: STARTRADER’s STARCARES Brings Support to SOS Children’s Village Ho Chi Minh City
The Mid-Autumn initiative delivered gift sets, household essentials and direct financial support to 213 people at the village in Go Vap.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — STARCARES, the corporate social responsibility programme of global multi-asset broker STARTRADER, hosted “A Full Moon for Every Child,” a Mid-Autumn Festival celebration at SOS Children’s Village Ho Chi Minh City in Go Vap. The on-site festival for the 60 children at the village was paired with essential supplies and cash support reaching 213 people, including house mothers and staff.
Every child received a gift set containing a lantern, cookies, a water bottle, a milk pack and a colouring kit. Hygiene, cleaning and pantry supplies were delivered to the village houses, alongside financial support for operating costs.
The village provides long-term, family-based care and education for approximately 160 children, from infants through university students, who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care. Since 2023, cuts to international aid have pressured operations, with remaining funding committed only through 2026. Contributions support tuition, caregiver salaries and the infrastructure that keeps these families together.
SOS Children’s Village plans care in years, not one-off gestures. STARCARES is built the same way, favouring recurring commitments under its Child Welfare & Community Aid pillar.
“The village was already doing the hard part long before we arrived. Our job is to make the practical side steadier, so the people raising these children can plan instead of improvise.” – Peter Karsten, CEO, STARTRADER.
“Support like this reaches our children in two ways. The essentials and funding ease real pressure on our households, and the celebration itself tells every child here that they are seen and thought of. That matters as much as anything we can put on a shelf.” – Mr. Hoang Long, Director, SOS Children’s Village Ho Chi Minh City.
STARCARES intends to extend this work across communities where STARTRADER operates.
About STARTRADER
STARTRADER is a global multi-asset broker empowering retail and institutional partners to access global markets through a range of platforms, including MetaTrader, STARTRADER APP, and STAR Copy. Regulated in five jurisdictions (CMA, ASIC, FSCA, FSA, and FSC), STARTRADER combines strong governance with a client-first approach, serving both retail clients and partners with a commitment to transparency, reliability, and long-term growth.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/a-full-moon-for-every-child-startraders-starcares-brings-support-to-sos-childrens-village-ho-chi-minh-city-302887123.html
23, Sep 2026
Where to Café-Hop This Weekend: NCR’s Most Charming Spots
The weekend is just around the corner, and if your idea of a perfect Saturday is also a good cup of coffee, good food, and an even better vibe to chill in, you have come to the right place. The cafe scene in NCR has exploded in the last few years, and choosing where to spend your Sunday mornings (or your lazy Tuesday afternoons, we don’t judge) has never been a harder or more delicious problem. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a gelato devotee, or someone who just wants a dreamy and aesthetic corner to sit and pretend you’re writing a novel or even daydreaming of being a main lead in a k drama, this list is your weekend sorted.
Here are five cafes in NCR you must visit on weekends:
1. Barista Coffee Company
There are some cafes which will always stay popular and Barista Coffee Company is one such cafe. The popular name among coffee enthusiasts all around India, Barista has kept up with the changing trends but never lost the reason why people like it – tasty coffee in a cozy and warm atmosphere.
Be it a classic cappuccino, an iced coffee, or some of its seasonal offerings like Main Hoon Mango series including Dirty Mango Latte, Chilli Mango Tango, Mango Iced Espresso, Mango Matcha, and Mango Affair, along with a tasty Mango Cheesecake Slice, whatever you wish to have will be available. Complement your coffee with a freshly baked croissant, a sandwich, or some cake, and you will enjoy a wonderful afternoon.
With its comfortable seats and a relaxed environment, Barista is a place where you can meet with friends, conduct business meetings, or just relax on your own with a cup of coffee. If you’re looking for a dependable café where conversations flow as easily as the coffee, Barista continues to be a favourite
2. Gram Street Coffee
Gram Street Coffee is a cozy little café located in Gurugram and is frequented by individuals who love gourmet and specialized food. This is the sort of place where one feels right at home once inside because of its brightly lit interiors and laidback feel.
While coffee is certainly a highlight here, the menu at Gram Street Coffee includes some interesting dishes for breakfast and brunch that are comforting yet fresh, making it a great place to come during weekends. There are also homemade gelatos at Gram Street Coffee that have now become one of the most popular items on the menu.
For those looking to catch up with friends over a delicious meal or just looking for some time out from the busy life to relax and enjoy coffee, Gram Street Coffee is the perfect spot.
3. Nubo
A café with deliciously healthy and hearty food is something most people would like to try. If such a café is what you want, then a visit to Nubo should definitely be a part of your weekend schedule.
The menu at Nubo is filled with healthy foods, such as bowls of fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and other healthy drinks that will provide you with energy and flavor. It is the kind of café that does not leave a person feeling sluggish after the meal.
Nubo’s interior space also follows its philosophy. Clean design, soft color palette, and an abundance of light make for a cozy place where one can have a relaxing conversation with friends or enjoy a peaceful brunch or lunch.
4. Pour Over Coffee Roasters
If you think coffee should be enjoyed and not rushed through, then this is the place to be at. The cafe has made itself famous for its dedication towards specialty coffee and attracts everyone from beginners to experienced coffee connoisseurs because of their approach towards the art of coffee making.
Starting from the quality of the beans used, right down to how every cup is brewed, everything is done in such a way that maximizes the taste of the coffee. Whatever drink you choose to have – whether it is a poured-over, a flat white or even an espresso, the whole aim is to bring out the natural flavors of the coffee.
The food menu keeps things simple with fresh bakes and light bites that pair beautifully with the drinks . With the serene environment and minimalistic decor, you get a chance to sit back, relax and savor your coffee.
5. Subko Coffee
Few names have generated as much excitement in India’s specialty coffee scene as Subko. . The brand takes pride in celebrating not just the culture of Indian coffee but the art of crafting great coffee by using skilled artisans to create a unique café experience.
While the star of the café experience is undoubtedly the coffee, the bakery deserves equal attention. With fresh croissants, layered pastries, sourdough loaves, and seasonal specialties taking up counter space, you will be tempted to try out everything there is on offer. Similarly, the menu at the café is also created by giving the same level of thought and care into each dish that is offered.
The café is modern enough for the connoisseurs of coffee but not so pretentious that the average visitor would feel intimidated.
Your Weekend, Sorted
A good café is never all about coffee. These places encourage people to linger a bit longer and create ideas. Cafés make the weekends go by a little slower so that everyone can enjoy their small joys of life. You might like a place such as Barista Coffee Company, a place where you can relax with friends during brunch at Gram Street Coffee, have healthy food at Nubo, enjoy coffee that has been prepared carefully at Pour Over Coffee Roasters, or enjoy artisan coffee at Subko.
So the next time your group chat asks, “Where are we meeting this weekend?”, you’ll have more than one great answer. Pick a café, order your favourite brew, and let the weekend unfold one cup at a time.
Happy hopping, NCR.
23, Sep 2026
Tungaloy and NTK Cutting Tools Announce Merger, Building on Complementary Strengths
Tungaloy Corporation and NTK Cutting Tools announce that, effective January 1, 2027, NTK Cutting Tools will merge with Tungaloy, marking a new chapter for both organizations. The merger is subject to compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Sept 23: Following the merger, the integrated organization will operate under the Tungaloy corporate name, while retaining the NTK Cutting Tools brand. NTK Cutting Tools will operate as a dedicated division within Tungaloy, building on the technology, heritage and expertise that have established its strong reputation in the cutting tool industry.
Alongside the integration, plans have been finalized for a new headquarters and state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for NTK Cutting Tools in the Nagoya area, Japan. This multi-million investment will increase production capacity, introduce advanced manufacturing technologies and provide a modern environment for manufacturing, engineering, marketing and corporate functions.
1+1>2: Combining Complementary Strengths
The merger brings together synergy and complementary strengths from both organizations. Tungaloy combines a broad cutting tool portfolio with strong expertise in grade development and innovation, while NTK Cutting Tools is recognized as a global leader in ceramic cutting tool technology and miniature lines.
The integration will also bring together the dedicated people and industry knowledge behind them.
For customers and distribution partners, this combination will provide a broader range of technologies, application expertise and industry knowledge to support manufacturers worldwide.
23, Sep 2026
Orenda Group and Sai Ram Dave Launch ‘Radha – Ek Prem Avtar’, Bringing a Timeless Indian Cultural Narrative to Contemporary Audiences
The original cultural property, curated by Gujarati folks artist, humorist, author and educator Sai Ram Dave, has presented in Ahmedabad on the occasion of Radhashtami and reflects Orenda Group’s broader vision of developing meaningful Indian stories and cultural subjects into enduring intellectual properties.
AHMEDABAD, India, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Orenda Group, the multi-sector holding platform led by Chartered Accountant-turned-entrepreneur Tarun Shah, has presented Radha – Ek Prem Avtar, a culturally rooted storytelling experience curated by Sai Ram Dave, at AUDA Auditorium, Shela, Ahmedabad, on 19 September 2026, on the occasion of Radhashtami.
Conceived as more than a one-time presentation, Radha – Ek Prem Avtar forms part of Orenda Group’s growing interest in developing culturally significant Indian narratives into original intellectual properties that can engage contemporary audiences while retaining the depth of the stories from which they originate.
The idea behind the property traces back to a personal experience of Tarun Shah during a family visit to Vraj in November 2024.
That experience eventually became the starting point for Radha – Ek Prem Avtar.
Tarun Shah, Co-Promoter, Orenda Group, stated, “The thought began during a family visit to Vraj, when I happened to visit Raval village – A real birthplace of ‘Radha Rani’. What stayed with me was the realization that while we have grown up knowing so much about Krishna, many of us know comparatively little about Radha beyond the familiar love story. Her story carries layers of devotion, surrender, longing and philosophy that deserve to be explored more deeply. That experience stayed with me, and over time became the starting point for Radha – Ek Prem Avtar. At Orenda Group, we want to build culturally rooted properties that allow timeless Indian narratives to be experienced meaningfully by today’s audiences.”
The event has been be curated by Sai Ram Dave, who brings together storytelling, philosophy, devotion, emotion and cultural interpretation in shaping the experience for present-day audiences.
Sai Ram Dave shared, “Rather than attempting to explain Radha through a single interpretation, the event seeks to invite audiences into the different emotional and philosophical dimensions associated with her story.”
The event has been held on 19 September 2026 on the occasion of Radhashtami, adding a meaningful cultural context to the Ahmedabad premiere. The occasion provides an opportunity to revisit and celebrate the story and significance of Radha through a contemporary storytelling format.
For Orenda Group, which is into large scale of fund raising and IPO, also represents a wider direction in its media and entertainment journey. The Group is looking at Indian cultural narratives not merely as subjects for individual performances, but as intellectual properties that can potentially be developed over time across audiences and formats.
Orenda Group currently manages a multi-sector fund of approximately $120 million and has been expanding its interests across media, entertainment and original intellectual property. Earlier this month at the Venice Film Festival, the Group announced the proposed INR 100 Cr Orenda Media Growth Fund, alongside singer-performer-producer Parthiv Gohil and National Award-winning actor-producer Manasi Parekh. The proposed fund includes original intellectual property and live-event IPs among its identified areas of investment, reinforcing Orenda Group’s broader focus on building scalable media and entertainment properties.
Radha – Ek Prem Avtar has been presented on the occasion of Radhashtami at AUDA Auditorium, Shela, Ahmedabad, on 19 September 2026 at 6:30 PM.
Disclaimer
Orenda Media Growth Fund is proposed to be registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India as an Alternative Investment Fund; registration is currently pending. This note is issued for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer, invitation or solicitation to invest in any scheme or unit. The tenure, allocation and target IRR stated above are indicative, based on the proposed investment strategy, and are subject to the terms of the Private Placement Memorandum and applicable regulatory approvals. Target returns are not assured or guaranteed and actual returns may vary. Investments in Alternative Investment Funds are subject to market and other risks. Units will be offered only to eligible investors by way of private placement after receipt of registration.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/orenda-group-and-sai-ram-dave-launch-radha—ek-prem-avtar-bringing-a-timeless-indian-cultural-narrative-to-contemporary-audiences-302886502.html
23, Sep 2026
Odisha Rain Alert: East Coast Railway Activates 24-Hour Control Rooms, Intensifies Track Monitoring
Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): With a Deep Depression over the Bay of Bengal moving towards the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) has intensified its preparedness to deal with possible disruptions caused by heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Railway authorities have placed key operational and safety mechanisms on heightened alert across Odisha, with special attention being given to vulnerable sections of the railway network.
24-Hour Control Rooms Activated
A 24-hour Disaster Management Cell has been activated at Rail Sadan in Bhubaneswar to monitor the weather situation and coordinate emergency responses.
Round-the-clock control rooms are also functioning at the divisional headquarters in Khurda Road, Sambalpur and Rayagada.
Officials at these centres are maintaining continuous communication with field teams and monitoring any impact of heavy rainfall on railway operations and infrastructure.
Vulnerable Railway Sections Under Watch
Railway officials have intensified inspections of tracks, bridges, yards, signalling installations and overhead equipment (OHE) in areas likely to be affected by the adverse weather.
Additional patrolmen and watchmen have been deployed at vulnerable stretches to detect problems such as waterlogging, track damage, fallen trees or other obstructions at the earliest.
Field teams have also been instructed to maintain increased vigilance during periods of intense rainfall and strong winds.
Emergency Equipment Kept on Standby
The railway has positioned essential manpower and emergency equipment at strategic locations so that any weather-related disruption can be addressed promptly.
Diesel locomotives, tower wagons, engineering equipment and heavy machinery have been kept ready for use in case tracks are blocked, infrastructure is damaged or urgent restoration work becomes necessary.
The arrangements are intended to reduce response time and facilitate the early restoration of train services if operations are affected.
Passenger Safety a Priority
East Coast Railway CPRO Deepak Raut said the preparedness measures have been taken with a focus on passenger safety and minimising disruption to train services during the adverse weather.
As the Deep Depression approaches the coast, railway officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to take operational measures depending on ground conditions and weather developments.
Passengers have been advised to keep track of official railway updates and allow for possible changes to train operations if weather conditions deteriorate.
23, Sep 2026
Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Earns a MICHELIN Key for its Contemporary Take on Luxury
Mumbai, 22 September 2026: Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has been awarded a MICHELIN Key by the MICHELIN Guide, recognising the hotel as one of the distinguished stays in its 2026 hotel selection.
In its review, the MICHELIN Guide notes that while Mumbai is home to some of India’s grandest palace hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai takes a distinctly contemporary approach. The Guide highlights the hotel’s gleaming glass tower and stone-clad lobby, with interiors in subdued, natural colours that favour a contemporary aesthetic over traditional or colonial references. The MICHELIN Guide also draws attention to the guest rooms, where design takes a back seat to the views, particularly those overlooking the Arabian Sea. Marble bathrooms with separate soaking tubs, oversized televisions and other five-star comforts further shape the stay.
The hotel’s location in southern Worli is noted as particularly convenient for business travellers, while the two-floor spa and daily yoga sessions offer a counterpoint to the pace of the city.
“Receiving a MICHELIN Key is a meaningful recognition for the team at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai. What makes it particularly significant is that the recognition comes from a guide that has looked closely at the experience of the hotel and what sets it apart within Mumbai’s luxury hospitality landscape. The MICHELIN Guide’s observations on our contemporary design and approach to guest comfort speak to the experience we have worked to create,” says Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai.
Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai continues to set its own standards with its rooftop bar AER, all-day dining at Opus, spacious spa rooms and personalised service. The recognition comes as the hotel looks towards its next chapter, with SanQi, its upcoming restaurant, adding to its offering.
23, Sep 2026
BRAHMA AI RAISES $150 MILLION ROUND LED BY MULTIPLES
Funding will accelerate R&D, global go-to-market and a significant Silicon Valley presence as Brahma AI builds the operating system for enterprise audiovisual content
LOS ANGELES and LONDON and MUMBAI, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Brahma AI, the AI-native operating system for enterprise audiovisual content, today announced that it has raised $150 million through the issuance of preferred shares with a $100 million investment by Multiples Alternate Asset Management. The company has also received a further $100 million of investor interest.
Brahma AI is focused on four global verticals: media & entertainment, sports, healthcare and advertising. Global anchor customers include Warner Bros, the NBA and Mayo Clinic and strategic distribution partners include Google, Hakuhodo and DNEG.
Brahma AI was founded and is led by Founder & CEO Prabhu Narasimhan. Brahma AI was born from Narasimhan’s vision to bring together the technology stack and capabilities developed across DNEG, Metaphysic and Prime Focus Technologies to build an AI-native platform for the world’s largest enterprises. Under his leadership, Brahma AI has developed its AI-native platform around Brahma AI Core and Brahma AI Studio, secured major global customers and partnerships, and expanded the application of its technology across media & entertainment, sports, healthcare and advertising.
Today, Brahma AI combines enterprise content intelligence and management with sophisticated AI creation technologies spanning visual AI, digital humans, voice and multilingual performance. Its technology has received significant industry recognition, including a 2026 Technology & Engineering Emmy® Award.
Jo Plaete, Co-Founder & CTO and one of the world’s leading experts in AI, visual AI, digital humans and high-fidelity synthetic media, heads Brahma AI’s technology and R&D division as the company continues to develop and expand its AI platform.
Renuka Ramnath, Founder, MD & CEO of Multiples
“Brahma AI is reimagining the content supply chain in the age of AI. Built on a unique heritage of Hollywood-grade technology and enterprise innovation, the company is helping organizations unlock greater value through AI-powered content, intelligence, localization, digital humans, and workflow automation. Its strong customer traction, differentiated capabilities and recognition thereof, including a 2026 Technology & Engineering Emmy® Award, reinforce our conviction in its ability to appropriate the multi-billion-dollar market opportunity.
Our investment is anchored in the belief that every enterprise is becoming a content enterprise. Prabhu, Jo and the broader team bring a deep understanding of the industries they serve and have translated cutting-edge AI into highly relevant solutions, spanning enabling multilingual visual experiences for films to developing digital twins for physicians. Multiples Private Equity will be an active partner as the company navigates the next phase of growth through investments in R&D, global market expansion, and talent & process build-out. The company has all the ingredients required to build an enduring global institution in a category that is only beginning to take shape.”
Namit Malhotra, Founder & CEO of DNEG
“Brahma AI began with Prabhu’s bold idea: to bring together the technology stacks and capabilities developed across DNEG, Metaphysic and Prime Focus Technologies and create a new, independent technology company built for the AI era. What he and his team have built from those foundations in such a short period of time has been remarkable.
Under Prabhu’s leadership, Brahma AI has developed its own technology and products, won major global customers and partnerships, and established a clear identity and ambition of its own. There is also a special symmetry to this moment. Prabhu, United Al Saqer Group and Thor Björgólfsson backed and invested in Prime Focus Limited, DNEG and me at an important stage in our journey. Today, all of us are backing Brahma AI and Prabhu alongside new investors led by Multiples.”
Prabhu Narasimhan, Founder & CEO of Brahma AI
“What excites me most about this investment is what it allows us to build next. We are close to launching interactive digital humans, we are building Brahma AI to be model agnostic, and we are taking our technology into entirely new use cases. And security, authenticity and provenance are such an important part of what we are building.
What resonated with us about Multiples is our shared belief that category-defining companies are built through a combination of bold ambition, disciplined execution and long-term thinking. I could not be more excited to have Multiples alongside us as we scale globally and continue pushing the boundaries of enterprise AI.”
Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. served as sole placement agent on this equity financing.
About Brahma AI
Brahma AI is the AI-native operating system for enterprise audiovisual content. Its platform combines Brahma AI Core, its enterprise content intelligence and management layer, with Brahma AI Studio, its AI-powered creation platform spanning visual AI, digital humans, voice and multilingual performance. Brahma AI works with some of the world’s leading content owners and enterprises and is the recipient of a 2026 Technology & Engineering Emmy® Award for its visual AI technology.
Mind² — Human emotion. Machine execution.
About Multiples
Multiples is India’s leading Alternate Asset Management company, distinguished by its long and successful experience of partnering with entrepreneurs. Multiples has backed over 35 enterprises to build aspirational, distinctive, and responsible businesses. Multiples identifies opportunities that benefit from big shifts in its chosen sectors and partners with exceptional entrepreneurs and management teams in creating transformational growth.
Multiples focuses on core sectors of financial services, pharma & healthcare, consumer and technology and more recently the green economy. Some of Multiples’ distinctive investment partnerships include ACKO, Delhivery, Encube Ethicals, India Energy Exchange, Kogta Financial, Licious, Milltec, MoEngage, PVR, Quantiphi, TI Clean Mobility, Vastu Housing Finance, VIP Industries, and Zenex.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/brahma-ai-raises-150-million-round-led-by-multiples-302886970.html
23, Sep 2026
TAT illuminates VIJIT Thailand 2026 across three distinctive regions
Lamphun, Trang and Roi Et reinterpret distinctive regional identities through immersive cultural performances and creative technology
BANGKOK, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is staging VIJIT Thailand 2026 in Lamphun, Trang and Roi Et from 25 September to 18 October, with an expanded regional format shaped around each destination’s identity. Light & Sound, projection illumination, 3D mapping, drone displays and cultural performances reinterpret local heritage, nature and culture while extending evening activity, encouraging regional travel, and generating income for local businesses and communities.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “VIJIT Thailand 2026 shows how creativity and technology can present local identity in modern ways while remaining rooted in the places, people and stories that give each destination meaning. This reflects TAT’s direction under ‘The Year of Transformation’, with emphasis on meaningful experiences, quality tourism and wider distribution of tourism benefits. Lamphun, Trang and Roi Et each offer unique cultural narratives and different ways to experience Thailand after dark.”
Developed as a sustainable event prototype, VIJIT Thailand 2026 presents 10 curated installations or experience points in each destination. The programme moves from Lamphun’s Hariphunchai heritage and faith to Trang’s natural and multicultural character and Roi Et’s beliefs, music, and Isan culture, interpreted through creative technology and live programming, and follows the VIJIT format used in earlier editions, including Vijit Chao Phraya in Bangkok.
VIJIT @LAMPHUN opens the programme from 25 September to 4 October, from 17.00 to 24.00 Hrs., across Lamphun Old Town. Under the concept “The Eternal Kingdom of Hariphunchai”, 10 illuminated locations connect its history, Buddhist heritage, faith and architecture through contemporary light art, multimedia and cultural performances.
The route begins at Tha Sing Bridge with “HARIPUNCHAI – The River of Light”, followed by Tha Nang Gate at Wat Chang Rong with “Wall of Memories”; the old city moat near Wat Mahawan with “The Eternal Stream of Time”; the Phra Rod basketry installation with “Timeless Light of Dharma”; Khum Chao Chakkham Khachonsak with “The Light of Time Royal Blood of Lamphun”; the Queen Chamadevi Monument with “The Eternal Queen of Hariphunchai”; Black to Basic café with “Lamphun Eternal Charm”; Wat San Pa Yang with “Sacred Mandala”; Chedi Chai Chana with “The Radiance of Triumph The Glory of the Realm”; and the chedi at Wat Si Bun Rueang with “The Great Illumination of Faith”.
Special shows add another dimension at key locations. Tha Nang Gate hosts five-minute Light & Sound multimedia presentations at 19.00, 20.00, 21.00 and 22.00 Hrs. daily, with fireworks incorporated into the 20.00 Hrs. show on 25–27 September and 2–4 October. Khum Chao Chakkham Khachonsak also presents four nightly Light & Sound shows at the same times, while Queen Chamadevi Monument features four nightly Light & Sound presentations plus cultural performance at 19.00 Hrs. each evening.
VIJIT @TRANG runs from 2 to 11 October, 17.00 to 22.00 Hrs, at Chaloem Phrakiat 95 Public Park in Mueang Trang. Under a “Trang Lights Alive” theme, the lakeside park features 10 illuminated experiences that draw on Trang’s natural environment, local symbols, and multicultural character.
Centred on “Magic Island”, the route includes “Beyond Perspectives”, “Richly Dugong”, “Live Reflection”, “The Tourist”, “Soul of Forest”, “Mantra Path”, “Light Bio Floral”, “Royal Benevolence” and “Multi-culture Bridge”. Together, the installations interpret Trang through dugong, flora, forest, visitor experience and cultural diversity, creating a nocturnal journey that combines nature, local identity and contemporary light art.
VIJIT Roi Et Illumination completes the programme from 9 to 18 October, from 17.00 to 24.00 Hrs., at Bueng Phlan Chai. Its 10 installations explore faith, beliefs and Isan cultural identity through illumination, mapping, lasers, mist, LED displays and sound, with an opening-night fireworks display at 19.30 Hrs. on 9 October.
The route opens with “The First Beat”, followed by “Portal 101”, an illuminated gateway; “Hello 101”, an LED landmark installation; “Inthanin Pulse”, combining mapping and reflections inspired by the inthanin flower; “Follow the Naga”, centred on a large animated naga display; “Whisper of Himmapan”, creating a mythical forest through lasers and mist; “Faith of Light”, drawing on local beliefs and imagery associated with Thung Kula; “Isan Playground”, interpreting regional culture through white squirrels, wot music and firefly-like lighting; “Purple Memory”, an illuminated pathway inspired by inthanin blossoms; and “Phlan Chai Pavilion of Faith”, illuminating Roi Et’s distinctive octagonal pavilion. Live music on 9–11 and 17–18 October complements the programme.
TAT targets 200 million Baht in economic circulation, 150,000 online and on-site participations, and 1.5 million awareness impressions across the three destinations. These targets reflect the key programme’s role in uniting destination experiences, local economic opportunity and sustainable event development.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tat-illuminates-vijit-thailand-2026-across-three-distinctive-regions-302886174.html
23, Sep 2026
Huawei Releases Intelligent WAN White Paper in AI Era
—Building an Intelligent Connectivity Foundation to Accelerate Intelligent Transformation
SHANGHAI, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On September 17, 2026, during HUAWEI CONNECT 2026, a high-profile session themed “Intelligent WAN, Building an Intelligent Connectivity Foundation” was held in Shanghai. Dozens of infrastructure managers, industry leaders, and experts gathered to discuss the importance and urgency of building a foundation for intelligent connectivity and the planning and deployment of intelligent WANs in the AI era.
Colin Hu, Vice President of Huawei’s Global Public Sector BU, stated in his opening remarks that global networks across diverse sectors face the dual challenges of extending coverage and enabling agile AI deployment. AI integration across all sectors is accelerating, which is placing higher demands on network security, coverage, real-time performance, and deterministic assurance. Meanwhile, issues such as network coverage gaps and digital service disparities persist, particularly in remote and underserved areas. To meet evolving needs, network deployment must strike a balance between inclusive coverage and intelligence, building a solid intelligent WAN foundation.
Dustin Kehoe, Head of AMEA Tech Research, GlobalData, highlighted that AI demands a fundamental modernization of WAN architecture to handle explosive and unpredictable traffic spikes. Legacy networks cannot cope with the massive, real-time data flows AI requires. AI workloads call for highly distributed, edge-enabled frameworks that process data closer to the source, reducing latency and optimizing bandwidth. Intelligent WANs must also deliver a deterministic experience, backed by granular performance guarantees. This trend redefines the requirements for intelligent WANs.
Ado, CEO of Huawei’s Wide Area Network Domain noted that the advent of the agentic AI era is shifting the network paradigm: network connections are shifting from humans to agents; traffic patterns are shifting from heavy downlink traffic to massive uplink traffic; and network experience assurance is expanding from specific applications to the entire agent workflow. Conventional connectivity pipelines need to evolve and provide an intelligent connectivity foundation in the AI era. He recommended that top-level planning be prioritized across sectors, with a focus on upgrading backbone network experience, security, and devices. Improved experience requires intelligent awareness, proactive prediction, and precise flow-level scheduling to deliver intelligent, uninterrupted deterministic experiences for users and agents. Security requires a comprehensive approach including devices with built-in security, end-to-end encryption, quantum-resistant links, network-security collaboration, and automated closed-loop management. Devices must be equipped with AI-native capabilities to enable intelligent, robust connectivity and strengthen the network foundation.
Ethan Liu, Vice President of the Router Domain of Huawei’s Data Communication Product Line, said the Stellar AI Integrated Data WAN Solution offers four capabilities to support intelligent transformation: converged ultra-broadband, which eliminates bandwidth bottlenecks for a highly efficient multi-purpose network; multi-dimensional awareness, which optimizes computing power delivery to support the efficient rollout of AI computing services; security and resilience, including proactive defenses for networks; and network autonomy to transform traditional O&M to enable self-healing within minutes.
Nick Liu, Vice President of Huawei’s Enterprise Optical Domain, delivered a keynote speech. He noted that Huawei has proposed a national fiber target network, characterized by ultra-broadband, flexibility, security, reliability, and intelligent O&M. Cutting-edge technologies—including 400G/800G, all-optical cross-connect (OXC), OTN-QKD integration, 50 ms WSON, AI-DAS, and NOEMate—can be used to build national information highways. Huawei calls for collaborative efforts to deploy national all-optical backbone networks, ultimately enabling inclusive connectivity and advancing national digital and intelligent strategies.
At the session, leading experts across relevant fields shared best practices and forward-looking insights regarding network planning and deployment. During the event, Huawei, in collaboration with GlobalData, released the Intelligent WAN White Paper in AI Era, offering a systematic analysis of industry trends, WAN target architecture, and evolution roadmap in the AI era to help customers accelerate their transition to the agentic AI era.
Looking ahead, Huawei will continue to leverage its strengths in network infrastructure, collaborating with partners and customers to drive AI-era intelligent transformation across industries.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/huawei-releases-intelligent-wan-white-paper-in-ai-era-302886999.html
