FEATURED NEWS
- October 2, 2026Technology
HyperKnown Opens a Marketplace for Licensing Real Faces in AI Ads
Astana, Kazakhstan, AI & DigitalBridge Conference, October 1st, 2026. HyperKnown, a marketplace for real verified people licensing human likeness in (AI) generated content, has opened applications to creators worldwide and casting access to companies. The platform lists identity verified people who agree to license their face and voice on a per project basis, and it is available now at hyperknown.ai . The company states that the launch responds to a gap in the generated AI content market, where advertisers increasingly produce synthetic content but lack documented consent and usage rights for the people who appear in it. AI content production has moved into mainstream advertising workflows over the past two years. The supply of talent has not kept pace with it. Companies that want a recognisable human face in an AI generated campaign image or video have generally faced two options: synthetic avatars with no real person attached, or conventional talent agreements that were drafted for live shoots rather than model based generation. HyperKnown.ai positions itself between those two, licensing real people under terms written for AI production and documenting that verified consent for the legal and paid media teams who have to sign off on the campaign. Accepted companies browse the roster or submit a project brief describing the campaign, the intended channels and the usage period. Each brief is checked against the talents recorded content restrictions before it reaches them. The creator then reviews the brief and either accepts or declines it. No payment is collected before talent approves, and a decline ends the request with no charge to the brand. Once the talent approves, the company receives documented verified rights clearance for the project. HyperKnown supplies the licensed high resolution assets and permissions. The studio, agency or brand’s production team makes the content using the latest models like Seedance 2.5 Kling 4.0 or Minimax H3 for best results. The company describes the approval step as the structural difference in its model. Consent is granted per project rather than through a blanket agreement signed once at registration, and it covers a defined brief, a defined set of channels and a defined term to remove risk and liability from the company. HyperKnown charges a flat license fee per person, set by tier, so brands know what a campaign will cost before they cast it. Talent receive 100% of the license fee. The Community tier covers up to 10 variations, used worldwide for one month. The Professional tier covers unlimited variations, used worldwide for three months. The Boutique tier is quoted per campaign, for known and premium talent whose fees are negotiated individually. Boutique campaigns go through the same identity verification, signed consent and payment process as the rest of the platform. A variation is any distinct asset made from the same person's likeness, such as a still image, a video cut or a billboard. The license fee covers talent rights and consent and high resolution character sheets for production. Managed production, is up to the companies agency or production team. Full terms are set out in the company's licensing agreement. People apply through the platform, upload photographs and a short permission video, and complete robust identity verification via Stripe before a profile can be listed. Verified profiles carry a badge that indicates the identity check has been completed, and identity documents are not visible to brands. People set content restrictions once, and those restrictions are applied to every incoming brief and carried into the signed license scope. The agreed talent fee is paid to the person in full, with the platform commission paid by the company rather than deducted from the talents' fee. Payouts follow the signed fee terms, delivery and brand acceptance, applicable review periods and cleared holds, and are released through scheduled payout runs rather than as immediate bank transfers. The company states that follower count is not a casting factor. Companies select people on location, look, style and fit for the campaign, which opens paid AI licensing work to people without an existing audience. Profiles are reviewed before they become visible to brands rather than listed automatically on signup. Payment is captured before production begins and remains subject to delivery acceptance, dispute, refund, chargeback and payout release controls. People may separately opt in to a disclosed licence programme covering AI character, training and promotional permissions, and that opt in is presented as a distinct decision rather than folded into the standard terms. The company has also published a reporting route for concerns raised about content or identity use on the platform. Alongside the public roster, HyperKnown offers a boutique service for campaigns that require a look, demographic or professional category not currently represented. The company sources, vets and onboards talent for those arrangements, including specific age ranges and body types, creators from regulated sectors such as healthcare, finance and legal, multi creator campaigns with coordinated licensing, and exclusive talent for longer brand partnerships. "Brands are producing AI video at volume, and the rights layer underneath it has not caught up," said Tim Nagle, Founder at HyperKnown. "A paid media team cannot run a campaign on a face with no documented consent behind it. We built the approval, payment and documentation chain into the transaction so that both sides know what was agreed, for which channels, and for how long." "The people licensing their likeness are making a considered decision each time," Nagle added. "They see the brief, the channels and the fee before anything is produced, and they can decline without consequence. That is the part we were not willing to compromise on." Creator applications are open now at hyperknown.ai/join . Companies can review the roster, provide a boutique request and submit briefs through the platform. Further information for advertisers, agencies and production companies are available at https://hyperknown.ai/for-companies. HyperKnown is building an MCP server that will let AI agents search the roster, cast and license talent directly for productions at scale, with the same consent and payment steps as the platform. About HyperKnown HyperKnown is a marketplace for real, verified people licensing their face and voice for Ai generated content. People on the platform are identity verified, set their own content restrictions, and approve each project brief individually before production begins. Brands receive documented rights clearance covering the channels and term defined in the license and a way to pay and manage international talent easily. Agencies receive license only clearance for their own production workflows. Media contact Tim Nagle HyperKnown Real People, Real Consent. Sydney, Australia, [email protected] hyperknown.ai
- October 2, 2026Automotive
CARAC Responds as Caravan Travel Gains Appeal Among Young Australian Families
Caravanning has long been associated with older Australians and retirement travel. Yet the same format also suits parents seeking practical family holidays. A caravan can combine transport, accommodation, meals, and shared downtime. It can also give children more opportunities to meet other families while traveling. For younger parents, the appeal often extends across generations. Many already have parents or grandparents who own caravans. Their experience can make touring feel more familiar and accessible. It also creates opportunities for grandparents, parents, and children to travel together. CARAC is responding by placing greater emphasis on the needs of family caravanners. The Dandenong South business supplies caravan parts, camping equipment, towing products, and everyday touring accessories. Its range covers practical needs before departure and while families are on the road. The family focus builds on more than 50 years of serving caravanners. CARAC has been run by three generations of the same family. Caravan accessories began as an addition to its automotive business. They later became its primary business as caravanning expanded in Australia. Today, that experience is being applied to a younger customer group. Family travel creates different equipment priorities than touring as a couple. Parents may need solutions for storage, bedding, cooking, outdoor living, and safety. Reliable power and water systems can also become more important when children are aboard. CARAC's existing range addresses those practical demands in one place. Families can find caravan kitchenware, portable furniture, bedding accessories, storage products, and safety equipment. The business also supplies towing mirrors, towing aids, electrical products, plumbing supplies, and caravan hardware. Those categories support both trip preparation and ongoing maintenance. Planning resources form another part of that family-oriented service focus. CARAC stocks maps, guides, and travel books for Australian touring. Its range also includes products from Caravanning With Kids. One example is an Australian-made caravan log book for tracking trips, kilometers, fuel, and expenses. Cost is another reason families may consider caravan travel. Once a family has access to a suitable caravan, touring can provide more control over daily spending. Cooking facilities can reduce reliance on restaurants. Travelers can also choose routes and stops around their own budget. The social side is equally relevant for families with children. Caravan parks place travelers in shared outdoor environments rather than separate hotel rooms. Children may meet other young travelers around campsites and common areas. Parents also gain more time together during drives, meals, setup, and sightseeing. CARAC's approach connects those family experiences with practical preparation. Its Dandenong South store provides products alongside advice for caravanning and camping trips. The company also operates a workshop on weekdays. Customers can therefore address equipment needs and caravan servicing through the same business. For CARAC, younger families represent a continuation of caravanning rather than a break from tradition. Grandparents can introduce the lifestyle to another generation. Parents can then adapt it around school holidays, budgets, and family routines.
- October 2, 2026Business
Arbitrage Group Sets Out Its Buyer-Side Advisory Model for Prime Central London
Strengthening Advisory Presence in Prime Central London Arbitrage Group has set out the principles behind its buyer-side advisory practice in prime central London. Founded in 2006 by Aldo Attanasio d'Aponte, the firm works across acquisition, relocation, commercial property including retail, and development in some of London’s most sought-after locations. Its clients are international investors, luxury brands and family offices seeking structured, discreet access to high-value property in London. London’s Enduring Position in Global Capital Markets The firm highlights London’s continued relevance as a destination for international capital, supported by structural factors that distinguish it from other global markets. Aldo Attanasio d'Aponte, founder of Arbitrage Group, says: “London's appeal to international capital isn't accidental, it is structural. Transparent title, deep liquidity and a legal system buyers can rely on. That combination is rare, and it is why prime central London remains a destination for wealth, not just a destination for tourism.” These characteristics continue to attract capital from global investors seeking long term stability and continuity in their property portfolios. Advising Luxury Brands on Strategic Retail Expansion Arbitrage Group has developed a strong track record advising international luxury brands on flagship retail expansion across London. The firm’s work spans acquisitions, negotiations, and repositioning strategies designed to align with brand identity and long term growth. On flagship retail, d'Aponte says: “A flagship store is not just a unit. It is a brand statement. When a luxury house chooses Bond Street or Sloane Street, it is choosing a postcode that reinforces decades of brand equity.” He adds: “Italian luxury brands have always understood London's strategic importance. It is where European craftsmanship meets American spending power and Asian travel, three audiences in one address.” “Securing a flagship in central London is rarely about a vacant unit on the open market. It is about who is willing to be persuaded to sell, and who can have that conversation on your behalf.” This approach reflects the complexity of securing prime retail locations, where off market transactions and strategic relationships often determine outcomes. Discretion and Anonymity in High Value Transactions A core component of the firm’s advisory model is its emphasis on discretion and confidentiality for high net worth clients and international investors. On discretion, d'Aponte says: “For our clients, anonymity isn't a preference, it is a requirement. A name on a Land Registry filing can move markets, expose family structures, or simply attract the wrong attention.” “Discretion is what international clients are really paying for. Speed and price come second to knowing that no one will ever see their name attached to the deal.” This level of confidentiality supports clients navigating complex transactions while maintaining privacy across jurisdictions. Integrated Structuring for Family Offices and Investors Arbitrage Group operates at the intersection of property, finance, and legal structuring, working alongside private banks, tax advisers, and family offices to deliver coordinated investment strategies. d'Aponte says: “Property is rarely just property for our clients. It is part of a balance sheet that includes a family office, a trust, an accountant and a tax position, and our job is to make all of those moving parts work together.” “We sit between the private bank, the tax adviser and the solicitor. Our value is not the property, it is the coherence of the structure around it.” This integrated approach reflects evolving expectations among sophisticated investors seeking alignment across financial and real estate strategies. Long Term Wealth Creation Through Real Estate The firm’s investment philosophy emphasizes long term value creation and generational wealth preservation. d'Aponte says: “Real estate is not a trade, it is a generational instrument. Our clients are not asking what next quarter looks like. They are asking what their grandchildren inherit.” “Continued wealth management means treating the building as a living asset. The work does not end at exchange, it begins.” This perspective informs the firm’s advisory model, which extends beyond acquisition to include ongoing asset management and value enhancement. A Boutique Model Built on Independence and Expertise Arbitrage Group’s boutique structure allows it to provide independent advice focused solely on the interests of buyers. Unlike traditional agents representing vendors, the firm acts exclusively on behalf of its clients, offering guidance that prioritizes long term outcomes over transactional considerations. Its established network of relationships across the real estate, financial, and legal sectors supports access to both on market and off market opportunities, positioning the firm as a strategic partner for international investors. About Arbitrage Group Founded in 2006 by Aldo Attanasio d'Aponte, Arbitrage Group is a buyer-side property advisory and development firm working across acquisition, relocation, commercial property including retail, and development in prime central London. The firm provides independent advisory services to international buyers, luxury brands, and high net worth investors, focusing on long term value creation and strategic investment opportunities. Through its integrated approach, Arbitrage Group works alongside private banks, tax advisers, and family offices to deliver structured real estate solutions. Additional information is available at Arbitrage Group official website . For inquiries, contact [email protected] .
- October 2, 2026Travel & Leisure
Jetpac Eterna Returns in a Limited-Time Drop After 11,000 Day-One Redemptions
Jetpac , a global travel eSIM provider, has announced that Jetpac Eterna will return on October 6 as a limited-time drop, following more than 11,000 redemptions on the first day of its initial release. The new drop will release a limited number of Eterna redemptions. Available only for a short period, it offers travelers a rare opportunity to secure a benefit they can carry across future international journeys. Jetpac Eterna is a lifetime free travel eSIM benefit that travelers claim once and keep for future international journeys. On eligible trips, it provides 100 MB of complimentary data and access to essential apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and Grab. Even after the complimentary data is used, travelers continue to receive unlimited access to these essential apps for the trip and can top up through Jetpac if they need more data. “The first Eterna drop showed us that travelers immediately understood the value of arriving with essential connectivity already in place,” said Vineet Singh, Business Head at Jetpac. “More than 11,000 day-one redemptions demonstrated strong demand for a benefit that can be claimed once and used across future trips. Eterna returns on October 6 in a very limited drop, so travelers who want it should be ready when it becomes available.” Demand Sets the Stage for Eterna’s Return Eterna was introduced around a simple travel need: being able to message someone, open maps, book a ride, or check travel details immediately after landing, without first searching for airport Wi-Fi, visiting a physical SIM counter, or making a last-minute roaming decision. The initial response provided a clear signal that travelers are receptive to an eSIM benefit that is easy to understand and useful at a critical point in the journey. By bringing Eterna back as a limited drop, Jetpac is giving more travelers the chance to prepare their connectivity before departure. What Travelers Can Claim on October 6 Travelers who secure Jetpac Eterna during the limited drop will receive: One free eSIM that can remain installed for future international trips 100 MB of complimentary data on eligible trips Unlimited access to essential apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and Grab for the trip, including after the complimentary data is used The option to top up with more data through Jetpac whenever needed Once claimed, travelers can download the Jetpac app, view their Eterna benefit, and install the eSIM before they fly. The reusable setup means they do not need to start again with a new eSIM for every eligible journey. A Limited Window to Land Connected The October 6 return creates another opportunity for travelers who missed the first release. With only limited availability, travelers are encouraged to visit the Eterna page in advance and be ready to claim the benefit when the drop opens. “Travel connectivity is most valuable when it is ready before it is needed,” added Singh. “Eterna is designed to remove uncertainty from those first moments after landing. This drop will only be available for a limited time and in limited numbers, and we want travelers to have a fair opportunity to prepare before it opens.” Jetpac Eterna returns on October 6. Learn more at https://www.jetpacglobal.com/eterna About Jetpac Powered by Circles, Jetpac was launched in 2022 as a premium travel eSIM service provider geared to redefine the way travelers roam. Jetpac’s travel tech platform instantly connects travelers globally to reliable roaming in 200+ destinations through the simple activation of 1 eSIM. Jetpac is focused on delivering a hyper-convenient way for customers to roam, providing them with data freedom and a bill-shock-free travel experience. More than a travel eSIM, Jetpac also provides value-added innovative services that go beyond traditional data connectivity, making it the ideal travel partner for all.
- October 1, 2026Technology
Aligator Raises $1.2 Million Seed Round to Transform Public Relations with Agentic AI
Aligator, the agentic AI startup redefining how public relations is done, today announced the successful close of its seed funding round, raising USD 1.2 million (QAR 4.3 million). Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and Next Ventures, a fund by Media City Qatar, led the round, with additional participation from a group of private investors. Aligator is building autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) agents purpose-built for the PR industry, capable of drafting and distributing press materials, monitoring media coverage, identifying journalist and outlet matches, and managing outreach workflows end to end. By pairing agentic AI with deep domain knowledge of communications, Aligator enables PR teams and agencies to operate with the speed and scale of a much larger organization. Aligator was founded by, and is powered by, a team of Qatar Foundation alumni, graduates of Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar and Texas A&M University at Qatar. The company stands as a homegrown success story of Qatar's investment in world-class education, with talent cultivated in Education City now building globally competitive AI technology from Doha. Since its inception, Aligator has focused on solving a persistent challenge in the communications industry: PR professionals spend the majority of their time on manual, repetitive tasks such as tracking coverage, building media lists, drafting routine materials, and chasing follow-ups, leaving little room for strategy and relationship-building. Aligator's agents take on this operational load autonomously, learning each client's voice, media landscape, and objectives to deliver work that is fast, consistent, and on brand. "Public relations is one of the most relationship-driven and time-intensive industries, yet much of the day-to-day work is repetitive and ripe for intelligent automation," said Ali Abbas, founder of Aligator . "This investment allows us to accelerate our product roadmap, grow our engineering team, and bring agentic AI to communications professionals across the region and beyond." The new capital will be used to: Accelerate product development , expanding Aligator's suite of autonomous PR agents. Grow the team , with key hires across engineering, AI research, and go-to-market. Expand regionally, serving agencies, corporates, and government communications teams across the GCC and MENA. “Aligator reflects the growing potential of Qatar’s homegrown innovation ecosystem and the strong technology talent emerging from the country. At Qatar Development Bank, we are committed to enabling promising startups through the capital and ecosystem support needed to develop their solutions, strengthen their capabilities and pursue their next stage of growth. We are pleased to invest in Aligator as it builds on this foundation and works toward its ambitions in Qatar, the region and beyond,” said Mohammed Al Emadi, Executive Director of Incubation & Venture Capital Investment. Khalid Mubarak Al Naimi , Director and Board Member at Next Ventures , said: “We were established to back promising companies with the potential to strengthen the sector and shape its future. Our investment in Aligator reflects this purpose, supporting technology that addresses real market needs and providing the financial and strategic backing needed to scale from Qatar into regional and international markets, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.” The investment reflects growing momentum in Qatar's technology and startup ecosystem, and underscores investor confidence in applied AI ventures emerging from the region, particularly those built by local talent. About Aligator: Aligator is an agentic AI startup for public relations, building autonomous agents that handle media outreach, press material creation, coverage monitoring, and campaign management. Founded in 2025 by Qatar Foundation alumni from Carnegie Mellon University and Texas A&M University, incorporated in Media City Qatar, licensed by Qatar Financial Center and headquartered in Msheireb Downtown, Doha, Qatar, Aligator's mission is to give every communications team the power of an always-on, intelligent PR department. Learn more at www.aligator.ai . About Qatar Development Bank (QDB): Established in 1997 as a government-affiliated development institution, Qatar Development Bank aims to strengthen the national business landscape, fostering and driving the economic diversification of the private sector in Qatar. Throughout more than twenty-five years of economic development, Qatar Development Bank has achieved notable successes, cementing its position as a major contributor to the national entrepreneurship ecosystem, the private sector and a diversified and knowledge-based economy. Qatar Development Bank’s strategy is aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, the Third National Development Strategy, and the Third Financial Sector Strategic Plan, with a focus on building a promising future for businesses in Qatar and empowering entrepreneurs to lead a sustainable and prosperous future. Qatar Development Bank anchors its support framework on three interconnected pillars, beginning with the promotion of innovation by embracing and accelerating entrepreneurial ideas and investing in startups, developing local businesses by providing financial and advisory support, and enabling the export ecosystem to bolster Qatari exports and raise the competitiveness of Qatari products in global markets, in collaboration with partners from the governmental entities. The bank's efforts are centered around diversifying support mechanisms to foster social and economic development, leveraging available resources to advance environmental, social and institutional governance and digital transformation efforts, and promoting innovation and creativity, with a focus on forging impactful local and global partnerships. For more information, visit QDB website . About Next Ventures: Next Ventures LLC, a fund by Media City Qatar, was established to fulfill Media City Qatar’s strategic goals by backing media, innovative technology, and gaming companies across local, regional, and international markets. As an active financial and strategic investor, it makes direct investments and co-investments alongside institutional and private-sector participants to help promising companies grow and scale.
- October 1, 2026Blockchain
Stacks Founder Muneeb Ali Takes the Helm as Stacks Labs CEO with Bitcoin Staking Entering Its Growth Phase
Stacks Labs today announced that Muneeb Ali, founder of Stacks (STX), will become CEO of Stacks Labs, the largest contributor to the Stacks network, effective October 15. He takes the role as Stacks shifts focus to accelerating adoption following the successful launch of Bitcoin staking. Recent business development has brought institutional partners including 21shares, UTXO Management, HashKey Cloud, Anchorage, and Fireblocks into Stacks' Bitcoin staking ecosystem. Stacks Labs will expand that work with new hires across business development, regional growth and brand. Stacks is the leading layer for productive Bitcoin capital, with over 4,200 yielded in BTC. The first institutional Bitcoin staking bond sold out at launch, with 21shares, HashKey Cloud, and UTXO Management filling their maximum allocations. The appointment formalizes a role Muneeb has increasingly taken on during the build phase of Bitcoin staking: working directly with institutional partners and sophisticated investors and leading key industry engagement. He remains the most recognizable voice for Stacks, setting out the vision for Bitcoin capital markets and a future where idle Bitcoin becomes productive capital. The transition is further enabled by the strong operational build out overseen by Alex Miller, who served as interim CEO since Stacks Labs was established and now moves into an advisory role. "In launching Stacks Labs, my goal was to build the team, put the right structure in place, and ship Bitcoin Staking," said Alex Miller. "With that foundation built, I cannot think of a more exciting leader for the next growth phase of Stacks than our founder, Muneeb. Working with this team has been a privilege and I look forward to continuing to support the ecosystem as an advisor." "Alex has taken the community's mandate to build a powerful, efficient core contributor and produced a Stacks Labs team that is shipping faster than ever and which has put Bitcoin staking, a unique, institutionally validated product successfully into the market." said Muneeb Ali. "The infrastructure is in place and institutions are ready to put their Bitcoin to work. My focus now is scaling adoption, from regional markets to the largest institutions in the world, and bringing Bitcoin staking to every holder of BTC." Muneeb has been working on Bitcoin since 2013, which gives Stacks Labs a CEO whose conviction in growing Bitcoin was formed long before Bitcoin became an institutional asset. He founded Stacks in 2017, leading the first SEC-qualified token offering in 2019. His experience as founder of the network carries weight with custodians, asset managers, and exchanges operating in regulated markets. He will focus on driving the resource alignment and hires necessary to further scale Stacks' visibility in the market while continuing to support key institutional relationships. The product roadmap and existing partnerships continue as planned, and Muneeb has already begun setting out his priorities for Stacks as he takes the helm. At Korea Blockchain Week 2026, Muneeb unveiled three frontiers as major priorities for Stacks: capital markets, privacy, and post-quantum Bitcoin. He previewed early work across all three, with more details to be shared in the coming months. Alongside these priorities, Stacks is expanding its presence in Korea, the Middle East, Hong Kong and other target regions through regional media partnerships and a growing program of institutional engagement and events. The goal in every market is the same: bringing Bitcoin Staking to institutions and everyday Bitcoin holders at scale. That work is already underway, with events across key regions including Korea Blockchain Week, Token 2049 Singapore and The Bridge NYC. For more information, read the full announcement on the Stacks Blog . — About Stacks Stacks is the leading Bitcoin L2, enabling smart contracts and decentralized applications to use Bitcoin as a secure base layer. Stacks extends Bitcoin’s functionality without modifying Bitcoin itself, unlocking BTC for decentralized finance and other onchain applications. Learn more at stacks.co . About Stacks Labs Stacks Labs is the operational hub of the Stacks ecosystem and the largest contributor to Stacks, the network that makes Bitcoin programmable, usable, and productive. Established through SIP-031, a community governance proposal, and funded by the Stacks Endowment, Stacks Labs leads core protocol engineering, developer relations, ecosystem growth, and strategic partnerships across the network. Its work includes sBTC and self-custodial Bitcoin staking, which lets holders earn native BTC on Bitcoin L1 without giving up custody. Learn more at stackslabs.com .
- October 1, 2026Business
CBB 2026 Set for a Grand Opening | Leading Exhibitors Across the Entire Industry Chain to Gather in Shanghai This October
From October 12 to 15, 2026, the 2026 International Brew & Beverage Processing Technology and Equipment Exhibition for China (CBB 2026) — the benchmark full-industry-chain exhibition for the liquid food sector in the Asia-Pacific region — will open at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). With the final countdown underway, this biennial industry event is sending a rallying call to the global liquid food community on an unprecedented scale. The next decade of the liquid food industry is beginning here — ahead of time. Guided by the themes of innovation, intelligence, sustainability and high-end development, and committed to “building a new platform for upgrading the entire liquid food industry chain while writing a new chapter of high-quality development,” CBB 2026 will bring together leading enterprises from every segment: baijiu (Chinese spirits), beer, beverages, dairy, condiments and packaging equipment. More than 900 exhibitors from China and abroad will make a joint appearance, and over 60,000 professional visitors from around the world are expected to attend for business discussions, across an exhibition area exceeding 100,000 square meters. After more than three decades of development, CBB has long been more than a trade fair. It continuously connects the entire chain — from raw materials, brewing and filling to packaging and digital smart manufacturing — creating an integrated industry platform for business matching, technical exchange and innovation. Step into CBB and you will see an exhibition; look closer and you will read the present and the future of an entire industry chain. 01 Leading Enterprises from Every Segment — One Show for the Entire Industry Chain This year’s exhibitor lineup can truly be described as a full mobilization of the industry chain. From upstream raw and auxiliary materials, brewing and processing, to midstream filling, packaging equipment and production line integration, and on to downstream labeling and coding, smart warehousing and digital solutions — leading enterprises from every segment, including baijiu, beer, beverages, dairy and condiments, will take the stage together, forming a complete map of the industry. Whether you are sourcing turnkey production lines or comparing individual machines, whether you focus on a single process or evaluate complete smart-manufacturing solutions, you will find your answer at this show. 02 Four Highlights: Unlocking the 2026 Trends of the Liquid Food Industry Closely aligned with industry development trends, this edition focuses on four main themes — internationalization, localization, intelligentization and green development — bringing together cutting-edge technologies and innovations from around the world to present a clear picture of where the industry is heading. Highlight 1 | Global Giants Gather as Frontier Technologies Take the Stage The international zone boasts a stellar lineup: world-renowned brands including BarthHaas, Fermentis, Krones, HEUFT, CIMC Enric, SACMI, ifm, Endress+Hauser, SEW-Eurodrive, Alfa Laval and Grundfos will all be present, covering core supporting technologies that range from hops, raw and auxiliary materials and pre-treatment processes to filling and packaging equipment and integration, end-of-line packaging and conveying, smart factory solutions and water treatment — spanning the entire liquid food production and packaging chain. A number of brand-new machines and solutions will make their on-site debuts, showcasing the latest achievements in smart manufacturing and green sustainability for the liquid food industry. Highlight 2 | Chinese Smart Manufacturing Breaks Through as Homegrown Equipment Goes Global Leading Chinese liquid food equipment manufacturers — Tech-Long, Newamstar, Lehui, Zhongya, Zhongchen, SUNRISE, Hermann and Talos — will exhibit in force, showcasing independently developed core equipment and technologies such as high-speed filling, aseptic packaging, intelligent inspection and integrated smart production, covering the entire production process from raw material pre-treatment, brewing and processing to filling and sealing, labeling and coding, and smart warehousing. These achievements not only help small and medium-sized food producers cut costs, boost efficiency and optimize their production systems, but will also accelerate the expansion of Chinese high-end equipment into global markets. Highlight 3 | Smart Upgrading Across All Scenarios: Building a New Ecosystem of Digital Production Digital transformation is one of the defining features of this edition, addressing smart-upgrading needs across the entire liquid food industry chain. From automated and intelligent production scheduling, predictive maintenance and big-data quality control throughout the process, to complete digital-twin factory solutions, every scenario is covered. Core intelligent equipment — including smart sensors, automated control systems and unmanned sorting machines — will be on display, helping the industry move from traditional manual control toward fully digital, intelligent and unmanned production. Highlight 4 | Green and Low-Carbon Empowerment: Sustainable Production Solutions That Deliver Aligned with global dual-carbon strategies and the industry’s low-carbon transition, exhibitors will launch a range of low-carbon technologies and equipment, including energy-efficient filling machines, circulating water treatment technologies, equipment for biodegradable packaging, and waste heat recovery systems. While optimizing production costs and efficiency, these solutions comprehensively support energy conservation and emission reduction, offering practical, full-coverage green production solutions for producers of alcoholic drinks, beverages, water, dairy products, condiments and other liquid foods — and helping the industry build a sustainable future. 03 More Than Ten High-Level Forums: Decoding the Trends Shaping the Industry More than ten high-quality concurrent events will be held during the show, bringing together authoritative industry experts, chief engineers of leading enterprises and industry leaders for in-depth discussions on segment trends, technological innovation and industrial transformation. 04 Why Attend? Three Audiences, Three Answers If you are a business owner or procurement decision-maker: compare leading solutions from across the industry chain in one place, connect with quality suppliers, and identify practical paths to lower costs, higher efficiency and transformation. If you are an engineer or part of a production technology team: experience live demonstrations of cutting-edge equipment, meet manufacturers’ technical experts face to face, and be among the first to grasp the trends in smart manufacturing and green, low-carbon technologies. If you are an industry observer or investor: read the next three to five years of the liquid food industry through the exhibitor lineup, technology directions and forum topics. 05 See You in Shanghai This October A biennial rendezvous — and a shared point on the calendar for the entire industry. From October 12 to 15, 2026, CBB 2026 looks forward to welcoming you at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. For more information, please visit www.chinabrew-beverage.com.
- September 30, 2026Business
FABTECH 2026: How HyLaser PRO Supports More Productive Laser Cutting
As sheet metal production moves into continuous, high-intensity operation, the demands placed on laser cutting equipment go beyond cutting speed alone. How much work can be completed in a single shift, whether consistent cutting quality can be maintained during continuous operation, and how smoothly different stages of production work together—all contribute to the equipment’s real-world production performance. From October 21–23, 2026, Hymson Laser Machinery will showcase HyLaser PRO at FABTECH 2026 in Las Vegas, USA (Booth C159) , featuring live laser cutting demonstrations. Designed for continuous, high-intensity production environments, HyLaser PRO focuses on higher production efficiency, consistent processing quality, and continuous production , enabling machine performance to better support sustained sheet metal production. Learn More ： https://youtu.be/13I3eyd6FOM 01 | Higher Laser Cutting Efficiency: More Than Cutting Faster In batch production, cutting speed is only one factor that affects output. Operational efficiency, machine operating pace, and material utilization are equally important. HyLaser PRO simplifies the workflow from programming and nesting to laser cutting. Its 2.0 g acceleration enhances dynamic performance and reduces non-cutting travel time, while the SkyEye intelligent vision system improves material utilization through remnant recognition and optimized nesting. HyLaser PRO is designed not simply to cut faster, but to deliver more productive output in every shift. 02 | Consistent Cutting Quality for Batch Production The faster the production pace and the longer the continuous operating hours, the greater the demand for consistent cutting quality. Built on stable laser output, HyLaser PRO combines intelligent cutting technologies to handle complex contours and fine geometries. Its precision interlocking machine bed provides a stable structural foundation for high-speed, high-load operation, helping reduce the impact of vibration and structural deformation on processing accuracy. From cutting performance to its mechanical foundation, HyLaser PRO is designed to maintain stable, consistent processing quality throughout continuous production. 03 | Laser Cutting Automation for Continuous Production Continuous production depends on more than the cutting process itself. Loading and unloading coordination, machine operating status, and response to unexpected conditions all affect the overall production pace. HyLaser PRO can be integrated with the HyAuto automation solution to optimize material flow between loading, unloading, and cutting. Combined with intelligent assistance features such as automatic nozzle changing and collision protection, it supports stable, continuous machine operation and reduces the impact of unplanned downtime on the production pace. Keep materials moving smoothly, keep the machine running steadily, and keep an efficient production pace going. See HyLaser PRO Live at FABTECH 2026 Higher production efficiency, consistent processing quality, and continuous production all serve one goal: to better meet the real-world demands of continuous, high-intensity sheet metal production. From October 21–23, 2026, visit Hymson Laser Machinery at Booth C159 at FABTECH 2026 in Las Vegas, USA , to see HyLaser PRO in action through live laser cutting demonstrations and talk with us about your sheet metal production needs.
- September 30, 2026Technology
SingNova Showcases Full-Stack RISC-V and AI Solutions at Tech Week Singapore 2026 to Accelerate Industrial Intelligence
Tech Week Singapore 2026 is being held on September 29–30 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. Singapore-based high-tech company SingNova is exhibiting four flagship products and showcasing full-stack solutions across intelligent computing, intelligent storage, smart cities, and smart business, demonstrating end-to-end capabilities from foundational RISC-V compute to upper-layer AI applications and data management. SingNova AI Power Studio: RISC-V Dataflow Architecture Powers Next-Generation High-Performance AI Workstation SingNova AI Power Studio adopts a RISC-V dataflow architecture and control-data co-optimization technology to deliver high-concurrency, real-time computing and integrate video processing, AI computing, and scientific computing. It features a 12-core RISC-V CPU, delivers full-stack compute of 200 TOPS at INT8 and 32 TFLOPS at FP16, and fully supports large-model inference. It supports up to 128GB of LPDDR5 ECC unified memory, PCIe 4.0 x16, and dual 10GbE ports for high-throughput data workloads. The product also offers a mature software stack and professional programming toolchain, and is compatible with mainstream AI frameworks and open-source operating systems, lowering development barriers. Its compact, professional design combines efficient cooling, desktop aesthetics, and engineering practicality, making it ideal for local deployment of large AI models, creative video generation, real-time video analytics, research, and education. SingNova AI Virtual Employee: Freely Customizable to Make Every Service Interaction Efficient, Reassuring, and Human-Centric Designed for service and marketing scenarios, SingNova AI Virtual Employee offers intelligent greeting, proactive service, intelligent customer service, business triage, intelligent content carousel, and interactive marketing. Using cameras to detect approaching customers, it can automatically wake up and proactively greet them. It supports natural-language inquiries about products, plans, rates, and more. After integrating with enterprise knowledge bases, it can answer high-frequency questions about account opening, procedures, and after-sales service, while routing complex issues to human service counters. When idle, it can loop posters or videos; upon detecting a customer, it automatically switches to interactive virtual-employee explanations, upgrading static advertising into a conversational, explainable, and conversion-ready interactive touchpoint. The product is available as an all-in-one terminal and a lightweight BOX edition. The BOX edition supports landscape, portrait, and touchscreen displays, is plug-and-play, and flexibly adapts to telecom service halls, bank branches, auto showrooms, corporate showrooms, retail display points, service counters, museums and galleries, unmanned halls, and unmanned convenience stores. SingNova Intelligent Video Storage Server: Efficient, Green Storage with Smooth Real-Time Transmission SingNova Intelligent Video Storage Server uses a dedicated AI chip for intelligent video to achieve chip-level efficient encoding, reducing video file size by a factor of at least three. A single device can easily meet 90-day, 180-day, and longer retention requirements. After processing, videos maintain HD image quality without relying on AI generative image enhancement, preserving key feature points and ensuring the accuracy of downstream AI analytics. The system offers multiple safeguards, including board redundancy, cluster redundancy, and self-recovery, to ensure secure and stable operation. It is compatible with cameras of different resolutions and brands, as well as mainstream video protocols and formats; integration does not change the existing video system architecture or usage. The solution is suitable for smart finance, smart cities, rail transit, highways, energy and power, manufacturing, and other scenarios. SingNova Storage Station: One-Minute Deployment to Close the Last Mile of Data Asset Management SingNova Storage Station (NAS storage workstation) is designed for one-minute deployment, helping enterprises close the last mile of data asset management. It supports centralized storage and consolidates diverse data assets; offers 13 advanced file access permissions that can be flexibly combined for controlled sharing; ensures data security through RAID-TP and multiple backup methods; supports minute-level deployment, simplified operations and maintenance, and full audit trail logging; includes a built-in Docker container platform and AI accelerator card support to streamline application integration; and can perform lossless compression on certain file formats without losing data. The new-generation AI Center also delivers three core capabilities: intelligent search, AI agents, and knowledge base. The product is suitable for government agencies, research institutes, hospitals, schools, SMEs, and other scenarios. As one of Southeast Asia’s most influential technology events, Tech Week Singapore brings together global tech companies, investors, government and enterprise customers, and researchers. It is a premier platform for global market expansion and industry collaboration. Through this event, SingNova hopes to engage in in-depth exchanges with global partners on RISC-V computing, local AI deployment, digital human interaction, and intelligent storage technologies, jointly explore implementation pathways for AI infrastructure in urban digital transformation, and identify channel, project, and ecosystem partnership opportunities. “Singapore is a hub for technology innovation in Asia, and Tech Week Singapore provides the best window for our products to reach global customers and partners,” said the SingNova team. “From RISC-V computing at the foundation to digital employees and intelligent storage at the application layer, we want to show not just individual products, but solutions that can truly be deployed in service halls, branches, showrooms, and enterprise data centers to solve real business problems.” About SingNova SingNova is a high-tech company incubated by Nanyang Technological University (NTU). It focuses on translating cutting-edge research into real-world applications and provides integrated, scalable solutions spanning intelligent computing, smart cities, smart business, smart energy, and embodied intelligence.
- September 29, 2026Business
JD.com Delivers iPhone 18 Pro Series to Over 30,000 Customers Within First Hour of Launch
Within the first hour of the iPhone 18 Pro series officially going on sale in China, more than 30,000 customers nationwide received their new devices from JD.com, with some deliveries completed just minutes after the 8 a.m. launch. In Beijing’s Fengtai District, Mr. Wang received a call from a JD Now delivery rider shortly after 8 a.m., informing him that his new iPhone had arrived. Having secured a 512GB iPhone 18 Pro through JD.com’s early-bird pre-order programme on September 12, he had expected his device to be dispatched on launch day, but was surprised by just how quickly it arrived. “I knew it was going to be shipped today, but I never expected it to arrive this quickly. My alarm hadn’t even gone off yet!” he said. Ms. Liu, a customer in Shanghai’s Pudong District, was equally impressed after receiving her pre-ordered iPhone, remarking that buying a new phone felt even faster than ordering takeaway. Customers in dozens of cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Wuhan, were among the first to receive their new devices on launch morning. To prepare for the launch, JD.com forecast consumer demand in different regions and planned inventory allocation in advance, positioning stock across its nationwide network of warehouses, local fulfilment centres and service stations, bringing products closer to customers before the official release. Once sales began, its warehousing, inventory management, retail and delivery operations worked together to process and fulfil a large volume of orders within a short period. JD.com also leveraged its network of more than 10,000 front warehouses and stations, alongside tens of thousands of offline retail stores across China, to bring the new iPhones closer to customers. This extensive network allows popular new products including iPhone to reach customers within minutes in major cities, while also supporting deliveries to more remote areas. Alongside fast delivery, JD.com introduced a range of services for customers purchasing the new iPhone 18 Pro series including trade-in. JD.com’s nationwide network of more than 3,000 Apple product service stations also provided support including trade-in, device activation, data transfer, screen protector installation and assistance with eSIM services. More than 20,000 service appointments had been booked ahead of the official launch. According to the 2026 iPhone Consumer Survey by Nanfang Metropolis Daily, more than 60% of respondents identified JD.com as their preferred channel for purchasing new Apple products. Product authenticity, availability at launch, delivery speed and reliable delivery times were among the key factors influencing their purchasing decisions. ( [email protected] )
- September 29, 2026Business
JD.com Opens Its First 101HOME in Shanghai, Bringing the Art of Living to an Innovative Retail Experience
JD.com today announced that its first 101HOME store will open on September 28 in Jing’an District Shanghai, introducing a premium home and lifestyle retail destination that brings together global design, home furnishing solution, smart technology, fashion, renovation services, dining, art and cultural experiences under one roof. With JD.com’s global sourcing capabilities, self-operated retail model and omnichannel infrastructure, 101HOME will offer a seamless “shopping upon seeing” experience, allowing consumers to explore new possibilities for their homes and discover the art of everyday living. Spanning approximately 12,000 square metres across four floors, 101HOME is designed to meet the evolving needs of consumers from age 0 to 101, across different life stages, household structures and lifestyles. The Shanghai 101HOME brings together more than 1,000 full category home and lifestyle brands, including over 30 international brands making their China debut and more than 150 domestic and international brands making their JD.com debut. It features more than 15,000 carefully selected products, including over 2,000 exclusive products and more than 1,000 new product launches. Some of its international brand portfolio includes Swiss furniture brand Vitra ; US design and office furniture brand Herman Miller ; Italian furniture brand Gervasoni , lighting brands Flos and Artemide ; Danish design houses Fritz Hansen , ferm LIVING , and GUBI ; Chinese original brands include U+ , which blends traditional Chinese craftsmanship with contemporary furniture design, and FNJI , known for understated modern Chinese furniture, and more. At the heart of 101HOME are 33 “Dream Homes”, designed for different living situation, family structures, lifestyles and interests. The Shanghai store features spaces created by British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE , and Japanese designers Shuhei Aoyama and Takashi Honma . Chinese designer Wang Heng (Ryan) draws on Song dynasty-inspired aesthetics to create a three-generation family home. Consumers can step into fully designed home settings and see how furniture, lighting and furnishings come together, offering inspiration for their own homes. “101HOME is designed to go beyond traditional home retailing, bringing together home design, lifestyle trends and social experiences under one roof,” said Billy Bao, Head of 101HOME at JD.com. “We want to create a unique experience where consumers can discover new products, explore different ways of living and find inspiration for their own homes. With JD.com’s global sourcing and supply chain capabilities, we can help turn that inspiration into reality, making it easier for consumers to create a home that reflects their individual lifestyles.” Building on the launch of its online flagship store in May 2025, 101HOME connects physical experiences with JD.com’s directly sourced and self-operated retail model. Consumers can explore complete home designs, feel the products in person and scan to purchase directly in store. Through 101HOME CARE service, Dream Home designs can be adapted to individual homes, while JD.com’s logistics and supply chain capabilities support integrated delivery, installation and after-sales services. Technology is integrated throughout the experience. Powered by JD.com’s JoyAI and JoyInside technologies, highly integrated smart home solutions demonstrate applications across entry systems, kitchens, bathrooms, sleep and health management. The store also features dozens of robotic products, allowing visitors to explore how robotics could become part of everyday family life. Moving beyond traditional home retail, 101HOME further combines shopping with design discovery, exhibitions, dining and social experiences, creating a dynamic retail environment that evolves with changing consumer interests. The Shanghai store features here cafe , a popular coffee brand from Kyoto; ICE BOUQUET , known for its floral-inspired gelato; JUANZONG Books ; DEVINE’R NYC , a New York coffee and lifestyle brand; and Foyer de Lumiere , a Japanese-French bistro, several of which are making their mainland China or Shanghai debuts. 101HOME also offers more than 300 Burgundy wines sourced through limited allocations, with over 100 available by the glass, making it China’s most extensive by-the-glass selection of allocated Burgundy wines. Seven public artworks are also integrated across different floors and public 101HOME spaces, bringing together architecture, art and contemporary living as part of the overall retail experience. The opening of 101HOME marks a new milestone in JD.com’s physical retail strategy. Moving beyond a product-led model, 101HOME places greater emphasis on experience, discovery and social interaction, while introducing a range of new-to-market retail and lifestyle concepts, supported by JD.com’s capabilities in retail, digital supply chain and logistics. 101HOME is also accessible digitally through its WeChat mini programme and the JD.com app. ( [email protected] )
- September 29, 2026Business
CATL Partners with BME to Advance Battery Pack Manufacturing in Egypt Through Technology Licensing
Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has signed a cooperation agreement with BME (Battery Manufacturing in Egypt), an Egyptian battery manufacturer, to support battery pack assembly and production in Egypt. Under the agreement, BME plans to source battery cells from CATL, while CATL will support BME with battery pack technology licensing, production equipment and technical training . The cooperation will enable BME to assemble and produce battery packs in Egypt, helping strengthen the country's localized battery manufacturing capabilities. The planned battery pack facility, developed and fully funded by BME, will have an initial annual production capacity of 1 GWh and will focus on battery packs for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Under its long-term plan, BME expects to expand annual capacity to 5 GWh and broaden its product portfolio to include passenger vehicle battery packs and energy storage systems for solar and wind power applications. BME was jointly established by MCV, an Egyptian commercial vehicle manufacturer, and Auto D, an automotive industry solutions provider. Through its partnership with CATL, BME will supply the battery packs directly to local automakers. Looking ahead, CATL will continue to work with global partners to apply its battery technologies, manufacturing experience and partnership model in more markets, supporting the development of localized battery value chain and the wider adoption of electrification solutions.
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ON INSIDER
- BKREA Wraps Up September With More Than $300 Million Closed Since July 1, Carrying Strong Momentum Into Q4
- DigitalSign.co Launches AI-Powered Digital Signage Platform for Businesses Managing Screens at Scale
- New PAT Tester Brought to Market With Industry Beating Lifetime Warranty!
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- Hudson County Botox Listings Leave a 51.7-Point After-Work Hours Gap
- CapitaLand Investment recognised for sustainability excellence in 2026 GRESB Assessment
- Hi Tech Motorcars Luxury Collection Expands Concierge Vehicle Transport Services Across Texas
- Haselwood Auto Group Launches 12th Annual Drive for a Cause Campaign Benefiting Fred Hutch Cancer Center
- Commentary on the flash estimate of Q3 2026 private residential property price index
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