Sceye and SoftBank Corp. Complete Stratospheric Connectivity Demonstration in Japan, Advancing Towards HAPS Commercialization

First mission of Sceye’s Service Test Program travels more than 15,000 km from New Mexico to Japan in the stratosphere, backhauls into SoftBank Corp.’s core network, verifies Direct-to-Device and edge computing capabilities and HAPS-based communications with drones.

TOKYO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sceye, a U.S. aerospace and material science company specializing in High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) for telecommunications and real-time environmental monitoring, today announced the successful trans-Pacific flight of its Service Test 1 (ST1) mission from New Mexico to Japan. Traveling more than 15,000 km through the stratosphere in 13 days, upon arrival over Japan, ST1 demonstrated mobile broadband connectivity to unmodified devices through SoftBank Corp.’s core network and HAPS-based edge computing and communication with drones to support the development of a 3D communications network.

Conducted in partnership with SoftBank Corp. (TOKYO:9434, “SoftBank”), a leading operator of telecommunications and IT businesses in Japan and globally, ST1 marks Sceye’s first flight to Asia and a groundbreaking milestone towards the commercial deployment of HAPS as stratospheric infrastructure.

“This flight marks a defining moment for Sceye and for the commercial potential of HAPS,” said Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen, Founder and CEO of Sceye. “Flying from the US to Japan demonstrates the performance required to make the stratosphere a viable layer of infrastructure and realize the future of AI, edge computing, and 6G. Together with SoftBank, we are moving beyond proving the technology to demonstrating how Sceye can complement and extend existing networks and deliver persistent connectivity at scale.”

The stratosphere offers the optimal vantage point: It is close enough to Earth for high-capacity connectivity and observation, yet the altitude is high enough for wide-area reach. Importantly, the stratosphere offers space-like conditions without the cost of being in space and the disadvantages of being in orbit. Sceye’s HAPS maintain altitude and their area of operation in the stratosphere through consecutive day and night cycles, operating like geostationary satellites, only 1,800 times closer to Earth and at a fraction of the cost.

In 2025, SoftBank Corp. invested in Sceye’s HAPS-based stratospheric infrastructure as a scalable solution to complement terrestrial towers and satellite constellations. The strategic partnership advances a shared vision for HAPS and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) as transformative infrastructure that can expand connectivity, support communications during disasters, and enable future applications across AI, IoT, aerial communications, edge computing, and 6G.

ST1 carried SceyeCELL, a first-of-its-kind “cell tower in the sky” designed to deliver wide-area mobile broadband directly to standard devices from the stratosphere. When deployed at full scale, one Sceye HAPS is designed to cover the equivalent area of approximately 500 terrestrial towers. During the ST1 mission, Sceye and SoftBank demonstrated mobile broadband from the stratosphere, including text messaging, voice calls, internet access, and video streaming. Testing also included emergency calls, using an emergency alert messaging system designed for large-scale disasters, and communications with drones.

Sceye’s ST1 mission launched on August 9, 2026 at 7:00 AM MDT from New Mexico. Additional notable mission attributes include:

• Traveled more than 15,000 km across the Pacific to Japan in 13 days
  
  
  
  
• Operated within Japanese managed air space for over 7 days
  
  
  
  
• Remained continuously within its area of operation for an extended period, achieving a station-seeking radius as low as 5 km
  
  
  
  
• Operated at approximately 16.5 km in altitude while completing telecommunications, drone, and emergency communications
  
  
  
  
• Confirmed communications performance equivalent to that of terrestrial networks while reducing radio interference with ground-based base stations
  
  
  
  
• Through a server installed on the HAPS, Sceye and SoftBank conducted data processing directly on the platform, demonstrating average round-trip processing response time of 68 milliseconds, reducing communications latency by over 40% compared with internet-based cloud processing. This marks the world’s first successful test in which a mobile core network and a web server for processing were installed on a HAPS, enabling response processing to be performed entirely onboard the HAPS and the results to be relayed back to smartphones.

ST1 remains in flight, returning towards the United States over the Pacific Ocean at the time of this announcement.

“SoftBank aims to build next-generation communications infrastructure that seamlessly connects the ground, the sky, and space. The fact that Sceye’s HAPS reached Japan from the United States and successfully provided Japan’s first trial services from the stratosphere in Japan’s airspace marks an important step toward the commercialization of HAPS, which is at the core of this vision,” said Junichi Miyakawa, President & CEO of SoftBank Corp. “By combining the HAPS flight and operational technologies that Sceye has developed with SoftBank’s communications technologies, we have gained confidence to realize a three-dimensional communications network utilizing HAPS. Going forward, in collaboration with Sceye, we will continue to integrate a wide range of technologies, including communications and AI, to develop HAPS into a new form of social infrastructure.”

This flight builds on Sceye’s Endurance Program, completed earlier this year, when its SE2 HAPS traveled more than 10,000 km in the stratosphere from New Mexico to the coast of Brazil where it stayed over its area of operation for several days to test long-duration performance in preparation for the Service Test Program, the first of which flew to Japan.

About Sceye

Founded in 2014, Sceye (pronounced “sky”) is an aerospace company dedicated to advancing stratospheric technology to connect people and protect the planet. Sceye leads the High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) industry, focusing on universal connectivity, climate monitoring, natural resource management, and disaster prevention.

Contact: press@sceye.com 

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Manulife Financial Corporation Prices U.S. Public Offering of Subordinated Notes

C$ unless otherwise stated                                              TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC    SEHK:945

TORONTO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife Financial Corporation (NYSE: MFC) (the “Company”) today announced that it has priced a public offering in the United States of U.S.$750,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.146% subordinated notes due 2041 (the “Notes”) at a public offering price of 100.000%. The Notes are anticipated to qualify as Tier 2 regulatory capital of the Company.

The Notes are expected to be issued on September 11, 2026 and will bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.146% for the period from, and including, the issue date to, but excluding, September 11, 2036 (the “Reset Date”), and, during the period from, and including the Reset Date to, but excluding, September 11, 2041, at an annual rate equal to the CMT Rate (as defined in the prospectus supplement) determined on the third business day immediately preceding the Reset Date plus a spread of 1.350%. The Company may, at its option, redeem the Notes, in whole at any time or in part from time to time, with the prior written approval of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (Canada) (the “Superintendent”), on or after September 11, 2031 and prior to the Reset Date at the applicable make-whole redemption price described in the prospectus supplement. The Company may also redeem the Notes, in each case, in whole, but not in part, with the prior written approval of the Superintendent, (i) on the Reset Date, (ii) at any time within 90 days following a specified regulatory event or (iii) at any time following a specified tax event, in each case, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon to, but excluding, the date of redemption. 

The offering was made pursuant to a preliminary prospectus supplement, dated September 1, 2026, to the Company’s registration statement declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 29, 2025.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes for general corporate purposes, which may include future refinancing requirements.

BofA Securities, Inc., Citigroup Global Markets Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC and Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering.

This release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. A prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus related to the offering have been filed with the SEC and are available on its website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus, when available, may be obtained by contacting BofA Securities, Inc., 201 North Tryon Street, NC1-022-02-25, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001; Attention: Prospectus Department; Email: dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com; Telephone: 1-800-294-1322; Citigroup Global Markets Inc., c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717; Email: prospectus@citi.com; Telephone: 1-800-831-9146; J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, Attention: Prospectus Department, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717; Email: JPMorganPostSale@broadridge.com; Telephone: 1-212-834-4533; or Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014, Attention: Prospectus Department; Email: prospectus@morganstanley.com; Telephone: 1-866-718-1649.

The securities will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Canada or to any resident of Canada.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ on the Hong Kong stock exchange.

Media Relations:

Fiona McLean

Manulife

437-441-7491

fiona_mclean@manulife.com

Investor Relations:

Derek Theobalds

Manulife

416-254-1774

derek_theobalds@manulife.com

Royal Caribbean Group Declares Dividend

MIAMI, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) today declared a quarterly dividend of $1.50 per common share payable on October 8, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 17, 2026. 

About Royal Caribbean Group

Royal Caribbean Group is a leading global vacation company spanning cruise, one-of-a-kind destinations, and land-based vacation experiences. The company operates 71 ships sailing to more than 1,000 destinations across all seven continents through its three wholly owned brands – Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea – and a 50% joint venture interest in TUI Cruises, which operates the Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd brands.

The Group is expanding its portfolio of private destinations through its Perfect Day and Royal Beach Club collections, and the company will enter river cruising in 2027 with Celebrity River Cruises. Powered by innovative brands, advanced technology, and an industry-leading loyalty program, the company has built a connected vacation ecosystem, turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations.

Named to the Fortune World’s Most Admired Companies 2026 list and to Forbes’ 2026 Best American Companies lists, Royal Caribbean Group is guided by its mission to deliver the best vacations responsibly. For more information, visit royalcaribbeangroup.com. 

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Shell to more than double US company-owned convenience retail sites with acquisition of Tri Star Energy

HOUSTON, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Equilon Enterprises LLC, doing business as Shell Oil Products US (Shell), has signed an agreement to increase its equity from 33% to 100% in Tri Star Energy, LLC, a convenience store operator and fuel distributor operating across the southeastern United States and anchored in the Nashville market. The acquisition makes Shell the full owner of an additional 320 fuel and convenience retail sites in Tennessee and surrounding states, as well as supply agreements with 552 more dealer-owned locations.

“Tri Star has built a strong business with high-quality assets, a dedicated team and a loyal customer base. The transaction is fully aligned with our growth strategy to focus capital on businesses in which we have distinctive advantages and can create long-term shareholder value,” said Machteld de Haan, President of Downstream, Renewables and Energy Solutions, Shell plc.

Shell already has the largest branded fuel network in the US, with approximately 12,000 primarily wholesaler- and dealer-owned fuel and convenience retail sites across 49 states serving more than 7 million customers daily. This acquisition significantly strengthens its company-owned presence in the US.

The investment is in line with Shell’s strategy to reallocate capital from lower-return areas to businesses and markets where the company has proven it can deliver strong performance and has clear competitive advantages, as announced at its Capital Markets Day in 2025. Shell stated that 80% of its growth cash capex in the Mobility & Convenience business will be spent in 10 key markets, such as the US, where it generates the majority of its cash flow.

The deal is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, subject to regulatory clearance and the satisfaction of closing conditions.

Notes to editors 

• Shell is acquiring the remaining interest in Tri Star Energy from The Parman Corporation, Kimbro Oil Company, and their subsidiaries.
• Once the acquisition is complete, Tri Star Energy will be operated by Texas Petroleum Group, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell Mobility & Convenience US LLC (SMC). SMC’s portfolio will consist of nearly 550 company-owned convenience retail sites and supply agreements with approximately 650 dealer-owned sites across the southern US.
• The acquisition is projected to generate an internal rate of return above the hurdle rate set for Shell’s marketing business.
• With a long history in the US, Shell is delivering secure energy supplies and meeting the evolving needs of customers today and into the future.
• Globally, Shell and its affiliates serve around 29 million customers per day at Shell-branded mobility sites, who visit for quality fuels, electric vehicle charging, and convenience and non-fuel products and services.

Cautionary Note

The companies in which Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this press release “Shell”, “Shell Group” and “Group” are sometimes used for convenience to reference Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. ”Subsidiaries”, “Shell subsidiaries” and “Shell companies” as used in this press release refer to entities over which Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. The terms “joint venture”, “joint operations”, “joint arrangements”, and “associates” may also be used to refer to a commercial arrangement in which Shell has a direct or indirect ownership interest with one or more parties.  The term “Shell interest” is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest.

Forward-Looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Shell to market risks and statements expressing management’s expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “aim”; “ambition”; ”anticipate”; “aspire”, “aspiration”, ”believe”; “commit”; “commitment”; ”could”; “desire”; ”estimate”; ”expect”; ”goals”; ”intend”; ”may”; “milestones”; ”objectives”; ”outlook”; ”plan”; ”probably”; ”project”; ”risks”; “schedule”; ”seek”; ”should”; ”target”; “vision”; ”will”; “would” and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this press release, including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell’s products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks, including climate change; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, judicial, fiscal and regulatory developments including tariffs and regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, regional conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the conflict in the Middle East, and a significant cyber security, data privacy or IT incident; (n) the pace of the energy transition; and (o) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Shell plc’s Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2025 (available at www.shell.com/investors/news-and-filings/sec-filings.html and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this press release and should be considered by the reader.  Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, September 1, 2026. Neither Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

Shell’s net carbon intensity

Also, in this press release we may refer to Shell’s “net carbon intensity” (NCI), which includes Shell’s carbon emissions from the production of our energy products, our suppliers’ carbon emissions in supplying energy for that production and our customers’ carbon emissions associated with their use of the energy products we sell. Shell’s NCI also includes the emissions associated with the production and use of energy products produced by others which Shell purchases for resale. Shell only controls its own emissions. The use of the terms Shell’s “net carbon intensity” or NCI is for convenience only and not intended to suggest these emissions are those of Shell plc or its subsidiaries.

Shell’s net-zero emissions target

Shell’s operating plan and outlook are forecasted for a three-year period and ten-year period, respectively, and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next three and ten years. Accordingly, the outlook reflects our combined Scope 1 and 2 target, NCI target and our oil products ambition over the next ten years. However, Shell’s operating plan and outlook cannot reflect our 2050 net-zero emissions target, as this target is outside our planning period. Such future operating plans and outlooks could include changes to our portfolio, efficiency improvements and the use of carbon capture and storage and carbon credits. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell’s operating plans and outlooks to reflect this movement. However, if society is not net zero in 2050, as of today, there would be significant risk that Shell may not meet this target.

Forward-Looking non-GAAP measures

This press release may contain certain forward-looking non-GAAP measures such as free cash flow and underlying operating expenses. We are unable to provide a reconciliation of these forward-looking non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures because certain information needed to reconcile those non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measures is dependent on future events some of which are outside the control of Shell, such as oil and gas prices, interest rates and exchange rates. Moreover, estimating such GAAP measures with the required precision necessary to provide a meaningful reconciliation is extremely difficult and could not be accomplished without unreasonable effort. Non-GAAP measures in respect of future periods which cannot be reconciled to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are calculated in a manner which is consistent with the accounting policies applied in Shell plc’s consolidated financial statements.

The contents of websites referred to in this press release do not form part of this press release.

We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this press release that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC.  Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.

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Beyond MBA Entrance Exams: How ICFAI Business School’s Case-Based Learning Prepares Students for Real-World Business Challenges

HYDERABAD, India, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ICMR India, also known as the IBS Center for Management Research (IBS Case Research Center), is an academic and professional institution focused on developing high-quality management case studies, business research, and practice-oriented learning resources. The center supports universities, faculty members, and corporate trainers by providing relevant, research-driven, and industry-focused management knowledge designed to strengthen practical learning and decision-making skills.

The IBS Case Research Center (IBS CRC) is ranked 3^rd globally, alongside institutions such as Harvard Business Publishing and INSEAD. The IBS CRC produces management cases that have a significant impact on management education and are used by institutions around the world.

A top MBA entrance exam is often evaluated by percentile in India when MBA aspirants talk about premier management institutions and their entrance tests. However, a business school’s true value lies in how well it prepares students for the real world. ICFAI Business School (IBS) stands out by going beyond routine entrance test preparation, with its management curriculum built around world-class case-based learning.

These cases are not merely archived; they are an integral part of the 2-year full-time MBA and PGPM curricula across all 9 IBS campuses. This shared ecosystem gives every student direct exposure to real-world business situations similar to those discussed at leading global institutions.

How Case-Based Learning Technically and Practically Sharpens Executive Capabilities

Case-based teaching helps bridge the gap between management theory and real-world decision-making. By working on complex and often unstructured business situations, students learn to analyse incomplete data, identify key business problems and arrive at solutions while working within constraints. Rather than simply absorbing information, students take part in classroom debates and group discussions where they have to present, explain and defend their ideas while responding to questions and views from their peers.

This process develops critical thinking, quantitative analysis, data interpretation and strategic thinking, while also strengthening skills such as active listening, persuasive communication and decision-making under pressure — qualities that are essential when dealing with real-world business challenges.

For a closer look at how case-based learning helps build practical leadership skills, watch these videos from respective IBS campuses, highlighting how ICFAI uses real-world business situations in its curriculum to develop analytical and decision-making abilities:

https://ibsindia.org/StudentTestimonials/CaseStudies.html

Details about the IBSAT 2026 Admissions (MBA / PGPM 2027–2029):

Aspirants evaluating management programmes can consider applying for IBSAT 2026 by ICFAI Business School, an MBA Entrance Exam that offers a streamlined pathway into one of India’s leading business school networks:

• Single Application for 9 Campuses: A single application fee (Rs 1,800) covers consideration across all 9 IBS campuses, including IBS Hyderabad, IBS Bengaluru, IBS Mumbai and IBS Pune.
• Multiple Entrance Pathways: Aspirants can apply through the home-proctored IBSAT 2026 exam or submit valid scores from national tests such as CAT, XAT, NMAT by GMAC™, or GMAT™.
• Merit-Based Scholarships: IBS has allocated 500 merit scholarships worth Rs 10 Crores (Rs 2 Lakhs per student) for top performers in IBSAT 2026 as well as high scorers in CAT, XAT, NMAT and GMAT.
• National Mock Test Series: Candidates can benchmark their performance through National Mock Tests offering cash prizes worth up to Rs 2 Lakhs.
• Comprehensive Selection Process: Admissions assess the overall profile through Micro Presentations and Personal Interviews rather than relying solely on test cut-offs.
• Proven Career Placement Track Record: Supported by a network of over 79,000 alumni, IBS campuses consistently achieve over 90% placement rates, with top compensation packages reaching up to Rs 40 LPA.

ICFAI Business School’s case-based teaching methodology, when combined with an understanding of market trends, helps students prepare for the future and stay updated with changes in the business world. It encourages them to keep learning, stay ahead and understand what is happening in the corporate world.

For more information, visit https://ibsindia.org/.

Contact us:

IBS Admission Office

Plot No. 65, Nagarjuna Hills

Punjagutta, Hyderabad – 500082

Telangana

Ph: 040 – 23440963 (5 lines)

Toll Free: 1800 425 55 66 77

E-mail: ibsat@ibsindia.org

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ANTARHRIDAY CONNECT – Connecting 500+ Youth with the Soul of Hindustani Classical Music

Kurukshetra & Karnal | September 2026

AntarHriday Connect Global Foundation, in collaboration with State Bank of India (SBI), in support of Kurukshetra University and KVA DAV College for Women, Karnal, with Shreyas Web Media Solutions as Media Partner, successfully concluded its two-city Performance-cum-Workshop Series on Hindustani Classical Music, conducted by renowned Sitar Maestro Pt. Subrata Dey. The initiative was conducted under the guidance of its Chief Patron, Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Hon’ble Member of Parliament.

The two housefull programmes were witnessed by 500+ students, combined with live performances, learning and interaction with accomplished artists.

The initiative also provided six emerging Classical musicians with opportunities for individual, collaborative and ensemble performances—Sahil Sodhi, Pankaj Kumar, Madhav and Illyas Khan with the Madhav group at Kurukshetra; and Shri Shantam with Ms. Ritu on Tanpura at Karnal. Pt. Siddharth Chatterjee on Tabla accompanied Pt. Subrata Dey at both venues, while Guru Rajender Ji accompanied Shri Shantam on Harmonium at Karnal. Their performances were highly appreciated by the audiences.

At Kurukshetra, Shri Rajeev Kumar Bansal, Chief Manager, SBI, Kurukshetra University Branch, was the Guest of Honour, alongside Lt. (Dr.) Virendra Pal Singh, Hon’ble Registrar, Kurukshetra University who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and Shri Mahesh Joshi, Hon’ble Vice President, Haryana Arts Council  was the Special Guest. Along with distinguished guests the event was attended by eminent musicians and faculty members.

At Karnal, Shri Sudhir Mor, Regional Manager & Head, Karnal, SBI, was the Chief Guest, alongside the Principal, KVA DAV College for Women, Karnal, and other distinguished dignitaries.

The Royal Canadian Mint commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Library of Parliament on pure gold and silver collector coins

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A national symbol of knowledge, democracy, and continuity that has graced Ottawa’s Parliament Hill for 150 years is being celebrated on an outstanding new gold and silver collector coins from the Royal Canadian Mint. The only survivor of the 1916 fire that devastated the original centre block is immortalized on a pure gold coin showing a meticulous engraving of its soaring domed interior, which houses a towering statue of Queen Victoria. Its silver sibling features an ultra high-relief engraving of the library’s neo-gothic exterior, framed by coloured fall foliage. These and many other finely crafted collectibles, are available for purchase as of today.

Designed by Canadian artist John Mantha, the reverse of the 2026 $200 Pure Gold Coin – 150th Anniversary of the Library of Parliament features a stylized rendering of the Library of Parliament’s richly ornamented interior. Crowned by a lantern dome, the vaulted ceiling and clerestory are viewed from the base of the Queen Victoria statue, emphasizing the dome’s impressive height, while the circular room’s walls are lined with wood panels, pillars and bookcases.

The reverse design of the 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – 150th Anniversary of the Library of Parliament is the work of Canadian artist Tony Bianco. His design consists of a view of the Library of Parliament, located at the rear of the Centre Block building on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario. The historic octagonal stone building is highlighted by its Ultra High Relief engraving which draws attention to its ornate High Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Selective colour also adds a profusion of fall colours to the scene, highlighting the tree-covered bluff from which the Library of Parliament rises from the Ottawa River. Above the scroll banner, an open book displays the dates ‘1876’ and ‘2026,’ highlighting the Library’s 150th anniversary.

The obverse of both these coins feature the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati.

The Mint is launching several new collector coins in addition to these historic keepsakes, namely:

• The 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – 75th Anniversary of the National Ballet of Canada;
• The 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – Nature’s Delight The Spider;
• The 2026 $20 Fine Silver Coin – The Eagle;
• The 2026 $200 Pure Gold and $50 Fine Silver Coins – Allegories of Peace and Freedom;
• The 2026 $50 Fine Silver Coin – Triumphant Dragon;
• The 2026 10g 9999 Gold Bar in Proudly Canadian packaging;
• The 2027 Fine Silver Fractional Set – Autumn Leaves;
• The 2026 50-Cent Lenticular Coin – Whimsical Winter; and,
• The 2026 Holiday Gift Set.

Mintages, pricing and full background information on each product can be found on the “Shop” tab of www.mint.ca. These products can be ordered as of today by directly contacting the Royal Canadian Mint at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada, 1-800-268-6468 in the US, or at www.mint.ca. They are also available at the Royal Canadian Mint’s boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, at participating Canada Post outlets, and through the Mint’s global network of dealers and distributors.

Images of the gold and silver collector coins commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Library of Parliament can be found here.

About the Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada’s circulation coins. The Mint is one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, producing award-winning collector coins, market-leading bullion products, as well as Canada’s prestigious military and civilian honours. As an established London and COMEX Good Delivery refiner, the Mint also offers a full spectrum of best-in-class gold and silver refining services. As an organization that strives to take better care of the environment, to cultivate safe and inclusive workplaces and to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates, the Mint integrates environmental, social and governance practices in every aspect of its operations. 

For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit www.mint.ca. Follow the Mint on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

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Richardson Introduces AI Roleplay Built on Hyperbound to Strengthen Seller Readiness

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Richardson Sales Performance, a global leader in sales training and performance improvement, today announced AI Roleplay Built on Hyperbound in Accelerate Prism, giving sellers realistic, AI-powered opportunities to practice critical sales conversations and strengthen readiness before putting new skills to the test with customers.

Sales organizations invest heavily in building seller capability, but sellers often have too few opportunities to apply new skills before they are expected to use them in high-stakes customer conversations. AI Roleplay addresses this gap by bringing realistic, real-time practice directly into the Accelerate Prism learning journey, helping sellers build confidence, sharpen execution, and turn newly learned skills into repeatable behaviors.

Enablement teams can quickly customize scenarios around their organization’s buyers, offerings, and common sales challenges, then deploy relevant practice consistently across roles, regions, and teams. Sellers can rehearse conversations in a realistic environment and receive immediate, actionable feedback grounded in Richardson’s Consultative Selling and Challenger methodologies, connecting every practice experience to the behaviors required for stronger customer conversations.

“Knowing what to do and being ready to do it in a customer conversation are two very different things,” said Kate Lewis, Chief Product Officer of Richardson. “AI Roleplay gives sellers a place to practice, make adjustments, and build confidence before the stakes are real. By embedding that practice within Accelerate Prism, organizations can create a much stronger connection between what sellers learn and how they ultimately perform with customers.”

AI Roleplay sits within the broader Accelerate Prism learning journey, so practice does not happen in isolation. Each experience reinforces the skills and behaviors introduced through customized learning and gives sellers repeated opportunities to apply them in situations that reflect the conversations they face in the field. Practice becomes part of an ongoing cycle of learning, application, feedback, and coaching designed to build durable behavior change.

AI Roleplay is powered by Hyperbound’s leading AI technology and integrated with Richardson’s methodology, learning experiences, and performance approach. This combination gives organizations the flexibility to create realistic practice environments while maintaining a consistent standard for how effective selling behaviors are reinforced and evaluated.

“Practice is one of the most important and historically hardest to scale elements of building sales capability and effectiveness,” said Erin Smith, Chief Revenue Officer of Richardson. “By bringing AI-powered roleplay into Accelerate Prism, we can give every seller more opportunities to practice the conversations that matter, receive feedback tied to proven selling behaviors, and arrive at the customer conversation better prepared to execute.”

For enablement leaders, AI Roleplay provides a scalable way to reinforce priority behaviors across the organization without relying solely on instructor-led practice or manager availability. Teams can tailor scenarios to specific business priorities and seller needs, while managers gain greater clarity into where sellers need additional coaching and reinforcement.

Within Accelerate Prism, those practice experiences can also become part of a more personalized development journey. By connecting realistic AI-powered practice with targeted learning and coaching, organizations can address individual skill gaps, reinforce the behaviors most important to performance, and help managers focus coaching where it can have the greatest impact.

This provides a more scalable approach to seller readiness—one designed to reduce the risk that capability gaps surface for the first time in critical customer interactions and undermine execution, customer trust, pipeline progression, and revenue performance.

For more information, visit www.richardson.com.

About Richardson

Richardson is a global sales training and performance improvement company that helps organizations build confident sales teams and win more business in an increasingly complex buying environment. As buying groups expand, decision-making slows, and AI reshapes how sales teams work, Richardson helps sellers combine consultative skills, disruptive insights, and disciplined execution to move deals forward. Through proven methodologies, expert facilitation, customized learning, AI-enabled reinforcement, and performance analytics, Richardson helps organizations develop the behaviors that improve customer conversations, strengthen pipeline progression, and drive measurable revenue outcomes. The world’s leading sales organizations rely on Richardson to build sales teams that compel buyers to act.

Media Inquiries: Andrea Grodnitzky, andrea.grodnitzky@richardson.com

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TUMI REVEALS FALL/WINTER 2026 COLLECTION WITH CAMPAIGN FOLLOWING LANDO NORRIS’ PATH TO NEW PEAKS

This season introduces alpine green, dynamic camouflage, and earthy neutrals — capturing the spirit of the ascent.

NEW YORK, Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TUMI, the international travel, lifestyle, and accessories brand, today launches its Fall/Winter 2026 seasonal campaign and collection, inspired by the rugged terrain of an alpine terrain. The season is grounded by TUMI’s bestselling silhouettes in elemental hues, while new collection TUMI Axis introduces everyday bags for the modern minimalist. The campaign follows two travelers — long-standing TUMI Global Brand Ambassador and McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Driver Lando Norris and a travel partner— embodying TUMI’s core belief that the pursuit never stops and there is always a new peak to reach.

Directed by Valentin Florian and photographed by Theo Gosselin, Fall/Winter 2026 immediately establishes a sense of place in the striking highlands of Scotland. Here, rugged terrain meets quiet elegance, mirroring the season’s elemental aesthetic.

“There is always another peak to reach, another goal to chase.” Said Lando Norris, “that drive is something TUMI and I share and I feel it in every TUMI bag I carry.”

The latest generation of TUMI Alpha, launched this past spring, evolves with fresh takes on beloved silhouettes rooted in an atmospheric color palette. The season is carried by iconic collections in key colors: Deep Pine across 19 Degree, 19 Degree Front Access, Harrison, and Alpha. Alpine Green and Rosewood add depth to Voyageur Nylon and Leather while a dynamic camouflage print is available in Alpha’s expanded silhouette range. Alpha Bravo, Olas, Adatto, and accessory collections Belden and Nassau are further grounded in earthy neutrals.

Harrison’s signature minimalism finds new visual interest with the addition of woven leather details on key silhouettes and tactical embossed leather in a rich cognac, reinventing minimalism for the modern traveler. The collection expands this season with new color and material stories, from the warmth of Cognac Bombe to the refined texture of Taupe/Black Woven, alongside new smaller carry silhouettes that bring Harrison into everyday life.

Also debuting this season, TUMI Axis introduces a minimalist, streamlined collection built for modern everyday performance. Clean in design and lightweight in construction, Axis brings an everything-in-place organization system to four versatile silhouettes — available in Black, Navy, Cement, and Black Reflective.

Carrying forward TUMI’s women’s offering, Voyageur Leather, the newly introduced Made in Italy Adatto Tote, and new silhouettes across Olas and Agent provide the modern woman with styles crafted for her own ascent. Each piece is designed for the woman who reaches her own peaks perfect for any journey. on her own terms.

“This season is inspired by the quiet confidence of the Alps,” said Victor Sanz, TUMI Creative Director.  “Rather than chasing excess, we wanted to explore the idea of elevation through thoughtful design. The collection reflects a sense of calm, precision, and purpose, where every detail has intention and every product is engineered to perform beautifully. It’s a reminder that true luxury isn’t about being louder, it’s about being better. We wanted to translate this feeling through this fall collection.”

More than a seasonal campaign, Fall/Winter 2026 is a global brand moment. Across key markets, TUMI will bring its alpine world to life through immersive experiences, activations, and content that blur the line between aspiration and function. At TUMI, performance and luxury have never been mutually exclusive. They are the standard. This season, that standard reaches new heights.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

19 Degree Collection

An alpine-inspired polycarbonate collection that brings a sense of escape to modern travel. Each piece balances sculptural design with lightweight durability — maintaining TUMI’s focus on performance, function, and effortless movement.

Available On: Expandable Carry-On, Large Carry-On, Large Expandable Checked, Front Access Expandable Carry-On, Large Front Access Expandable Carry-On, Medium Front Access Expandable Checked, and Large Front Access Expandable Checked

Colors: Pine and Salt

Voyageur Q Tote

A versatile everyday tote designed to move seamlessly between travel and daily life. Now crafted in supple leather with refined hardware, the Q-Tote elevates its everyday appeal — pairing premium materials with practical organization and an effortless silhouette suited for work, weekends, and on-the-go travel.

Colors: Black/Gunmetal, Black/Gold, Rosewood, Sienna

TUMI Alpha Collection

The latest generation of Alpha, launched this past spring, arrives in an atmospheric Fall/Winter palette of Deep Pine, Forest Camo, and Grey Reflective across key silhouettes: the Dual Access Carry-On, Double Expansion Duffel, and TUMI Brief Pack™.

Colors: Deep Pine, Forest Camo, Grey Reflective

TUMI Harrison Collection

Harrison expands for Fall 2026 with new materials, colorways, and silhouettes for the modern minimalist. Cognac Bombe joins permanently, while Taupe/Black Woven brings European-inspired woven construction to the collection’s clean, architectural lines. Two new silhouettes — the Macri Small Crossbody and Thatcher Sling Backpack — expand the ways Harrison can be worn.

Colors: Cognac Bombe, Taupe/Black Woven, Deep Pine Bombe, Ink/Suede

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we’re committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com and follow on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2026 Tumi, Inc.

TUMI Media Contacts

TUMI PR | pr@tumi.com

Karla Otto for TUMI | tumi@karlaotto.com

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