FEATURED NEWS
- June 17, 2026Automotive
Geely Auto Group Extends Winning Streak as Preface TCR Sweeps Valencia
Geely Auto Group continued its momentum in international touring car racing as the Geely Cyan Racing delivered a commanding weekend at the Valencia round of the 2026 Kumho FIA TCR World Tour. Following its breakthrough victory at Misano, Geely Preface TCR extended its winning streak to four races with Santiago Urrutia sweeping all three races at Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Geely Cyan Racing established its strong pace from qualifying and locked out the top three for opening race. Urrutia converted that pace into a clean sweep across the weekend, beginning by turning the team’s starting advantage into a victory in Race 1. In Race 2, he charged from eighth on the reverse grid to secure his second win, his teammates Ma Qinghua and Thed Björk added points for the team, finishing fourth and sixth respectively. In Race 3, Urrutia sealed a clean sweep by setting the fastest lap and leading every lap to achieve the Grand Slam, which made him the first driver to accomplish the "Perfect Weekend". Björk added two podium finishes and helped Geely Cyan Racing secure back-to-back 1-2 finishes, further demonstrating the team’s race execution and the car’s consistency under demanding conditions of tight circuit with high track temperatures. Following this conquering showcase, Geely Cyan Racing leads the team standings with 277 points, 54 points ahead of its nearest competitor. Urrutia leads the drivers’ standings with 140 points, while Björk follows in second with 120 points. Four victories from the first five races underline the pace, reliability and development potential of the Geely Preface TCR. As the campaign continues, Geely Auto Group will keep utilizing international motorsport as a platform to advance technical upgrade, strengthen global collaboration across its racing programme, and demonstrate the competitiveness of the brand in international touring car racing. About Geely Auto Group Geely Auto Group is a leading global automotive company headquartered in Hangzhou, China. Part of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto Group develops and manufactures passenger vehicles under the Geely, Lynk & Co, and Zeekr brands. Geely Auto achieved cumulative sales of 3,024,567 units in 2025, exceeding the full-year sales target with a year-on-year growth of 39%. New energy vehicle (NEV) sales reached 1,687,767 units, a year-on-year increase of 90%. With a strong focus on technology innovation, electrification, and sustainable mobility, Geely Auto Group operates world-class R&D centers and manufacturing facilities across China, Europe, and key international markets. The Group is committed to delivering safe, high-quality, and intelligent vehicles enabled by advanced technologies such as hybrid powertrains, full-electric architectures, smart connectivity, and autonomous driving systems. As a global company, Geely Auto Group continues to expand its international presence through strategic partnerships, localized operations, and industry-leading platforms. Geely strives to create mobility solutions that are greener, smarter, and more accessible, driving forward the future of sustainable transportation.
- June 16, 2026Top Stories
Fujifilm and HORIBA Co-develop High-Sensitivity Inline Raman Measurement System for Real-Time Monitoring of Cell Culture and Purification in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing
FUJIFILM Corporation (President and CEO, Representative Director: Teiichi Goto) and HORIBA, Ltd. (President: Masayuki Adachi) today announced the co-development of a high-sensitivity inline Raman measurement system*1 that enables continuous, real-time monitoring of component concentrations directly from bioreactor and process equipment during cell culture and purification in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. When this system is used to control purification processes in antibody drug manufacturing, antibody yield improves by approximately 10% 2 compared with conventional UV-Vis-based process control methods 3. Fujifilm will exhibit this inline Raman system at the BIO International Convention to be held in San Diego, USA, from June 22 to 25, 2026. Biopharmaceuticals are medicines produced using biological systems such as cells or microorganisms, based on biologically derived materials, and they are advancing into diverse and increasingly sophisticated modalities, including antibody drugs, as well as cell and gene therapies. These therapies are used to treat a wide range of diseases, such as cancer and immune-related disorders, and the market is growing at an annual rate of approximately 9%*4. In the manufacturing process of biopharmaceuticals, slight variations in process conditions—such as oxygen concentration in cell culture media and purification processes—can significantly affect product quality and yield. As a result, identification and analysis of various components are conducted during cell culture and purification processes. However, conventional offline analytical methods require samples to be taken from cell culture media and purification solutions during manufacturing, making it difficult to monitor compositional changes in real time. Against this backdrop, there is an increasing demand for highly sensitive measurement technologies that can analyze the conditions inside bioreactor and process equipment in real time and accurately monitor changes in these conditions. The system developed jointly by the two companies combines a high-sensitivity Raman spectrometer, a single-use probe with a superior optical throughput 5, and Fujifilm’s proprietary measurement algorithms to predict quality attributes. By integrating Fujifilm’s optical design technologies, cultivated through its imaging and optical device businesses, and its expertise in biopharmaceutical manufacturing in its Bio-CDMO business with HORIBA’s Raman spectroscopy technologies, known for their high sensitivity, precision, and stability, the companies have developed an inline Raman measurement system that achieves industry-leading sensitivity 6. This enables high-precision, real-time monitoring of changes in the composition of cell culture media and purification solutions. Going forward, the two companies will work together to verify the system towards real-world use. By improving manufacturing processes’ monitoring and advanced data analysis technologies, the system is intended to contribute to the stable manufacturing of high-quality biopharmaceuticals, including antibody drugs, and the reduction of manufacturing costs. *1 Inline measurement technology that applies Raman spectroscopy (a technology based on the interaction of light with a molecule that provides detailed information about its chemical structure) to manufacturing processes, enabling continuous, real-time, non-destructive analysis of chemical composition and reaction states without sampling. *2 Verified through demonstration tests conducted using Fujifilm’s model experimental systems. *3 An analytical method that measures the amount of ultraviolet or visible light absorbed by molecules for the characterization and quantification of samples. *4 Estimated by Fujifilm based on Evaluate Pharma data (as of January 15, 2026). *5 An optical probe designed for single use, capable of efficiently collecting light for superior sensitivity while reducing contamination risk and eliminating the need for cleaning processes. *6 Measured in terms of signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) in a measurement system combining commercially available Raman spectrometers and probes for inline Raman applications. As of June 2026, based on Fujifilm research. The S/N is an indicator representing the ratio of measured signal to noise. A system with higher S/N is capable of detecting weaker signals, making it suitable for low concentration analytes detection. 1. Key Features of the High-Sensitivity Inline Raman Measurement System This system combines a Raman spectrometer from HORIBA with Fujifilm’s single-use probe and Fujifilm’s proprietary measurement algorithms, enabling efficient acquisition of weak Raman signals and highly accurate analysis. The Raman spectrometer provided by HORIBA has an extensive track record in refinery processes in the petroleum industry, where real-time chemical monitoring is required under harsh operating conditions. Engineered with cutting-edge technology, the rugged and high-performance Raman spectrometer delivers unmatched precision and stability to support long-term operation. In addition, the system achieves high sensitivity through a proprietary noise-reduction design that minimizes signal fluctuations caused by rising temperatures. It also enables highly accurate continuous measurement through an automatic calibration that mitigates spectral drift caused by temperature fluctuations and other factors. By combining the Raman spectrometer with a high light-collection-efficiency probe optimized in material and structure for biopharmaceutical manufacturing using Fujifilm’s proprietary optical design technologies, the system can detect weak signals that were difficult to identify using conventional methods and attains the highest signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) in the industry. Sufficient accuracy can be ensured even with a short acquisition time, contributing to improved measurement throughput. Furthermore, Fujifilm’s proprietary measurement algorithm extracts characteristic wavenumbers associated with target substances and impurities in the acquired Raman spectra*7 and constructs a predictive model, enabling highly accurate measurement of time-dependent changes in cell culture media components and concentrations of target substances and impurities in purification solutions. Schematic of the High-Sensitivity Inline Raman Measurement System A high light-collection-efficiency probe and a Raman spectrometer with a noise-reduction design enable the acquisition of Raman spectra with a high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Characteristic wavenumbers associated with target substances are extracted from the acquired spectra, and a predictive model is constructed. This enables real-time monitoring of the concentrations of target components and impurities. 2. Application Examples of the High-Sensitivity Inline Raman Measurement System Improvement in Antibody Yield in Purification Processes for Antibody Drug Manufacturing Conventional UV-Vis-based process control methods can measure total protein concentration but have difficulty distinguishing antibodies from size variants such as aggregates and fragments. This system extracts characteristic wavenumbers of antibodies and impurities from high-S/N Raman spectra, obtained using the combination of the Raman spectrometer and the single-use probe, and constructs a predictive model based on these data. This allows continuous, high-precision measurement of antibody and impurities concentrations. As a result, antibodies can be collected at the optimal timing when impurity levels remain within acceptable limits, without sacrificing drug substance’s yield. Experiments using this system have confirmed an approximately 10% improvement in yield compared to conventional UV-Vis-based process control methods. Furthermore, the system is expected to contribute to improving quality and yield in the manufacturing of a wide range of biopharmaceuticals beyond antibody drugs, by enabling high-sensitivity differentiation between target substances and impurities. 3. Application Value and Future Development of the High-Sensitivity Inline Raman Measurement System Stabilization of Antibody Quality in Cell Culture Processes for Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing In cell culture processes, the system can identify and continuously measure multiple amino acids contained in the cell culture media, enabling real-time monitoring of changes in cell culture media composition inside the bioreactor. This makes it possible to identify sources of variation among batches and within the same batch process, allowing precise control of manufacturing processes and contributing to stable manufacturing of high-quality biopharmaceuticals. Acceleration of Process Development for Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing By enabling continuous real-time inline analysis, the system reduces the time required for conventional offline analysis involving sampling during the process. As a result, the cycle of trial processes—from condition optimization to verification—can be repeated in a shorter time frame, contributing to improved efficiency and acceleration of process development. *7 A spectrum that plots Raman shift (energy change of scattered light) on the horizontal axis and intensity on the vertical axis, reflecting molecular structure and composition. About FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation FUJIFILM Corporation is a subsidiary of FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation. FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, leverages its depth of knowledge and proprietary core technologies to deliver innovative products and services across the globe through the four key business segments of healthcare, electronics, business innovation, and imaging with over 70,000 employees. Guided and united by our Group Purpose of “giving our world more smiles,” we address social challenges and create a positive impact on society through our products, services, and business operations. For more information, please visit: www.fujifilmholdings.com . For further details about our commitment to sustainability and Fujifilm’s Sustainable Value Plan 2030. FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation Fujifilm’s Sustainable Value Plan 2030 About HORIBA With more than 70 years of experience, HORIBA develops unique measurement and analysis technologies to meet customers’ evolving needs worldwide. Through group companies and local sites across approximately 30 countries and regions, we support a wide range of industries and applications that address global societal challenges. Guided by our corporate vision, “Joy and Fun for All,” HORIBA contributes to a safe, secure, and sustainable society where all life can thrive. We deliver comprehensive solutions that extend beyond measurement and analysis across three megatrend-driven business fields: Energy & Environment, Bio & Healthcare, and Materials & Semiconductor. For more information, please visit https://www.horiba.com/
- June 16, 2026Business
XTB International Limited Announces Launch of Dedicated Short-Term Silver Trading Service
XTB International Limited today announced the launch of a dedicated short-term trading service designed specifically for silver trading and day trading strategies, responding to heightened market volatility and structural supply constraints in the metal through 2026. The new service is positioned to support traders seeking session-based approaches amid a metal market that has experienced unusually large directional moves in recent months. Silver recorded a 147% price surge in 2025 and briefly reached a record intraday high of $121.60 per ounce in January 2026, after which markets shifted into a pattern of sharp, unpredictable swings. Concurrent industry data for 2026 indicate a sixth consecutive annual supply deficit, with a reported shortfall of 46.3 million ounces and industrial demand accounting for more than half of total silver consumption. Those combined dynamics have produced a trading environment characterized by increased intraday ranges and frequent catalyst-driven moves. XTB International Limited described the service as a response to the market environment in which short-term, execution-focused activity has become a dominant way for participants to manage exposure while seeking to capture defined intraday opportunities. The offering emphasizes session-level analytics, execution capabilities aligned with rapid intraday flows, and risk controls intended to limit overnight exposure, a feature that the company identifies as central to day trading in a market prone to gap opens following macroeconomic announcements and regulatory developments. Structural and calendar-based catalysts that have shaped silver's price action in 2026 are reflected in the new service's feature set. A tightening of export licensing in China in January 2026 has reduced the availability of physical metal on international markets, adding a fresh supply constraint. At the same time, accelerating industrial demand tied to solar panel manufacturing, electric vehicles and electronics continues to draw down inventories. Industry measures indicate industrial demand expanding at a compounded annual baseline in the low single digits, creating a supply-demand backdrop that has amplified sensitivity to scheduled economic releases and central bank communications. Those recurring scheduled events have produced intraday moves that frequently fall in the 3–5% range, creating definable entry and exit windows for traders that employ disciplined day trading techniques. The company framed the service around the mechanics that professional short-term traders apply to volatile commodities. Emphasis is placed on identifying the primary session driver, seeking technical confluence at key levels of support or resistance, and executing with predefined stop-losses and profit targets. The service integrates tools intended to help users identify high-probability setups and manage position sizing in accordance with risk parameters commonly referenced in short-term commodity trading, including professional practices that limit account risk per trade to a small percentage of overall capital. XTB International Limited positioned the launch as addressing both retail and institutional participants who are actively engaged in silver trading and who require timely information and execution to manage exposure in a market moving on multiple drivers. The offering aggregates intraday market data, session analytics and execution functionality with configurable risk controls to align with short-term strategies. The company noted that eliminating overnight exposure is an objective for those focused on day trading, given that headlines related to energy supply, trade policy and monetary policy have contributed to session-to-session gaps that can materially affect longer-term positions. Market consensus on average pricing for silver in 2026 shows a wide range of estimates, underlining divergent views among institutional forecasters and analysts. An institutional estimate cited an average near $70 per ounce for the year, while an analyst poll produced a baseline figure closer to $78 per ounce. The spread between those estimates illustrates the degree of disagreement across market participants and the corresponding opportunity set for short-term price discovery and execution-focused strategies. The service launch follows a period in which access to professional-grade tools and timely market research became increasingly central to how traders positioned for both directional moves and intraday volatility. XTB International Limited framed the new offering as intended to support disciplined preparation and process-based trading: defining the session driver, applying clear risk parameters, and executing plans consistently within a single trading session to avoid overnight exposures that can magnify risk in a highly reactive market. About XTB International Limited XTB International Limited is a financial services firm that provides trading platforms, market access and research to clients engaged in global markets. The company offers tools and services designed to support short-term and longer-term trading strategies across a range of asset classes, including commodities focused on silver trading and related markets.
- June 16, 2026Automotive
EXEED VPD Conquers the Heat: Smart Parking Tech Begins Middle East Trials
In mid-June, test vehicles equipped with EXEED VPD (Valet Parking Driver) technology will be deployed to Saudi Arabia for rigorous, real-world validation under extreme heat and challenging road conditions. Designed to transform parking from a manual chore into a fully autonomous service, VPD integrates core functions including AI-driven valet parking, AI pick-up, and one-touch recall. This technology will be introduced in production models, starting with the EXEED ET 2026. Whether pulling into a spot in Dubai's bustling commercial districts or parking along Abu Dhabi's Corniche, drivers can enjoy a truly seamless, hands-free experience — no sweat, no hassle. Skip the Long Walk: EXEED VPD Brings AI Pick-Up to Business Parks Suburban business parks, especially sprawling industrial campuses, are often crisscrossed with long, winding paths that separate parking lots from production zones. After a long meeting, trekking 10 to 15 minutes back to your vehicle drains both energy and focus. EXEED's VPD system features an "AI Pick-Up" function that makes departing as effortless as arriving. Users simply preset a designated pick-up point in the mobile app — the main reception area, for example — before the visit. When ready to leave, a single tap summons the vehicle. It navigates out of its remote parking spot and drives precisely to the pick-up point, where it waits. No more trekking across the campus. Seamless Drop-Offs: No More Interruptions for Parking Whether dropping off passengers or attending a quick business meeting, curbside parking often becomes a mental tug-of-war: legal spots tend to mean a long walk, while stopping in a no-parking zone always carries the risk of a fine. EXEED's VPD system tackles this exact scenario with its "AI-Driven Valet Parking" feature. Users can leave the vehicle at a permitted curbside stop and head off to their appointment; the vehicle then sets off on its own to find and park in a proper space. Along the way, the vehicle reads its surroundings in real time — braking automatically for pedestrians, pausing when its path is blocked, and parking itself seamlessly once a spot opens up. And if the vehicle needs to be moved midway, there's no need to interrupt the meeting or get up from your seat — a few taps in the app handle it remotely. The entire process unfolds without disrupting what actually matters. This — effortless control over life's daily frictions — is what real efficiency, enabled by technology, feels like. Beating the Summer Heat: No More Frantic Hunts for Your Vehicle At midday in summer, a parking garage is the last place anyone wants to be. Hotel lobbies stay cool and comfortable, but step into the garage and it's a different world — the pavement blistering under trapped heat. In Saudi Arabia, where EXEED's test vehicles are heading, July and August temperatures frequently soar to 40°C–50°C or higher, with ground temperatures approaching a scorching 70°C. EXEED's VPD system features a "One-Touch Recall" function that makes "the vehicle comes to you" a daily reality. Simply summon your vehicle from the app while you wait in the air-conditioned lobby. The vehicle navigates out of its parking spot — even from deep within a multi-level structure — and pulls up right where you are. When you open the door, you are greeted by a cabin already pre-cooled to your preferred temperature. VPD technology elevates this brief "micro-journey" — from indoors to inside the vehicle — into a seamless, protected experience, free from sudden weather changes or uncomfortable conditions. This football season, EXEED has done more than just bring VPD technology to life — it has answered a deeper question: When a vehicle can move on its own, just how much of the user's time and mental energy can be freed up. From the fatigue of trekking across a distant lot, to the anxiety of a curbside stop, to the sweaty frustration of hunting for your vehicle under a blazing sun — behind each pain point lies a tangible drain on the user experience. With EXEED VPD, the vehicle evolves from a tool that requires constant attention into a proactive travel partner that lightens the load — ensuring that a truly premium experience stays effortless, from start to finish.
- June 16, 2026Business
New Zealand’s Product Stewardship: Moving from Good Intentions to a System That Works
By Deanne Holdsworth - Executive General Manager, Pact Group Originally published by Pact Group . Republished with permission. ----- We talk a lot about circularity in New Zealand. And to be fair, there is real progress. There is intent. There are good people doing good work. But if we’re honest, the system we have today isn’t truly circular — not at scale, and not consistently, not yet. The good news is that there is strong intent, and there is real progress. But (and there is always a but) there are still gaps that are painful, persistent and too visible to ignore. Am I criticizing NZ Product Stewardship? Absolutely not! We need to reflect on the good, the bad and the ugly of product stewardship, learn from both examples in NZ and across the world, reflect where we are today, and ensure that there is a concerted effort to move from ugly to good – that’s why the next step matters so much. There is genuinely a lot to be optimistic about. The Good Across New Zealand, industry-led product stewardship schemes are delivering results. From Agrichem containers to paint pails, plant pots and many other plastics, we are already seeing materials collected, processed and remanufactured into new products – and they are solid programmes, islands of success. These programmes are because of true desire by brand owners and recyclers alike to make progress in product stewardship. This drive and impact really matter, proving that circularity is not theoretical in New Zealand, it is already happening. But… we cannot have just islands of excellence to be impactful. To have programmes that work consistently at scale, there needs to be proven systems, infrastructure, demand, and regulatory assistance for consistent success. The Bad: Where Good Intent Meets Reality The challenge is not intent. We have plenty of that. The challenge is that intent alone does not make the economics stack up. Post-consumer materials are rarely clean or consistent. They are contaminated, dispersed across the country, expensive to collect, and even more expensive to process. At the same time, recycled materials are competing with low-cost virgin alternatives and imported recycled plastics. Layer on top of that a uniquely New Zealand constraint – we are a small, geographically dispersed market with limited scale, but with world-class ambition. Because if a system only works when everything goes right — when materials are clean, logistics are perfect, and markets are strong — then it is not a system. It is a best-case scenario. And best-case scenarios do not hold up in the real world. The Ugly: When Systems Fail Despite Good Intentions We have already seen what happens when collection outpaces capability. Material is collected faster than it can be processed. End markets fail to keep up. Stockpiles grow. And eventually, trust breaks down. Collection alone does not create a circular economy. Without aligned processing capacity and stable end markets, it simply shifts the problem. And once material has been collected, there is no easy way back. Social licence is fragile. When systems fail, the reputational damage does not sit with one scheme — it lands across the entire industry. Consumers don’t distinguish between programmes. Their trust in stewardship is impacted by all systems. The Obligation Without a clear and consistent obligation on producers to take responsibility for their products at the end of life, the system remains incomplete. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is the mechanism that can change this. EPR shifts accountability away from councils and taxpayers, and back to the companies that place products on the market. That shift matters because it embeds responsibility into the system itself. I don’t mean to infer that the shift in accountability will provide a rates refund! When designed well, it creates a level playing field, links cost to design decisions, and enables investment in infrastructure. This is how we move from voluntary effort to system design. However, how we implement EPR matters just as much as whether we implement it. Pact Group New Zealand’s view is clear. A fragmented approach to mandating packaging stewardship piece by piece will not deliver the outcomes we need, will create unintended consequences and unneeded additional cost to the producer and subsequently to the consumer. The Opportunity The focus should be on establishing a mandatory, all-of-packaging EPR scheme, supported by the timely passage of waste legislation. That scheme should be designed to drive the right behaviours and outcomes across the system. It should prioritise domestic recycling, reprocessing and remanufacturing outcomes, ensuring that materials are managed within New Zealand wherever possible. And critically, it must provide long-term policy certainty. Without that certainty, it is difficult to unlock the private capital investment needed to build infrastructure at scale. EPR is not a silver bullet. But it creates the conditions for alignment. To deliver a system that works, that alignment needs to extend further. We need: Government leadership to set clear direction and durable policy Industry responsibility across the full lifecycle Infrastructure investment to match collection with processing capability Demand for recycled materials , driven by real commitments to recycled content and end-market innovation Because we only close the loop when all three parts — collection, processing, and demand — are designed to work together. The good news is that New Zealand already has many of the building blocks in place. We have capability. We have experience. And we have clear examples of what works. The need What we need now is not more effort — it is better alignment: Between policy and infrastructure Between packaging design and end-of-life outcomes Between ambition and investment If we get that right, we move from a system that depends on goodwill to one that consistently delivers outcomes. And when that happens, circularity stops being an aspiration — and becomes part of how we do business.
- June 15, 2026Marketing
Castle Rock Hormone Health Partners With SmartBug Media
Castle Rock Hormone Health announced a strategic partnership with SmartBug Media as the company enters a national scaling phase. The partnership will support franchise development, marketing automation, territory sales tracking, CRM management, and reporting tied to planned clinic expansion. Photo courtesy of Castle Rock Hormone Health The company provides hormone therapy, medically guided weight loss, and anti-aging therapies, including peptides and IVs, for men and women across the United States. Current growth plans include opening 100 to 250 clinics in 2026, growing that number to more than 450 by the end of 2027. SmartBug Media was selected in part for its work across marketing, sales, CRM, automation, and reporting within HubSpot, according to the company. Its franchise marketing background and experience in healthcare and wellness matched the organization’s need to recruit franchisees, acquire patients, and support local clinic marketing across multiple territories. “We are thrilled to be working with yet another industry leader like SmartBug. High-level engagement with proven, top-tier organizations is the keystone for scaling to 475+ locations in the next 24 months. We are confident we found that with SmartBug!” said Chris Stolzman, CEO and Co-Founder of Castle Rock Hormone Health. Reporting and attribution capabilities also played a role in the decision to form the partnership. Priorities identified for the next stage of growth include marketing attribution, return-on-investment tracking, custom dashboards, lead-source visibility, and alignment between sales and marketing activities. Expansion plans come as the business continues building what it describes as a national franchise model in the hormone replacement and optimization sector for both men and women. Castle Rock Hormone Health’s clinical model was developed by Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lee Moorer, a double board-certified physician recognized for his expertise in hormone optimization. The company’s proprietary protocols are grounded in scientific research, data-driven patient monitoring, and rigorous ethical standards, creating a framework that prioritizes safety, precision, and measurable patient outcomes. "Castle Rock Hormone Health doesn’t just sell hormone treatments; they fast-track, restore confidence and vitality. By deploying an advanced, AI-powered HubSpot infrastructure, SmartBug is eliminating operational friction and building a high-speed franchise launch playbook. We are making it effortlessly easy to scale deep patient empathy by customizing an automated HubSpot engine to dominate each franchise's market and change lives from day one," notes Adam Bleibtreu, CEO, SmartBug Media About Castle Rock Hormone Health is a hormone optimization and replacement franchise serving men and women across multiple U.S. regions, including the East Coast, Midwest, and Rocky Mountain markets. The company provides hormone therapy, medically guided weight loss, peptide and IV therapies, and related services aimed at addressing hormone imbalance and associated symptoms for a growing national patient base exceeding 10,000 individuals to date.
- June 15, 2026Business
Vancouver Osteopath Publishes Landmark Research Showing Manual Osteopathy Outperforms Sham Treatment for Low Back Pain
Systematic review and meta-analysis by Best Osteopathy founder Mehrbod Atshani covers 12 randomized controlled trials and more than 6,000 patients across eight countries. Best Osteopathy, a multi-location manual osteopathic clinic serving Metro Vancouver, announces the publication of a peer-reviewed systematic review and meta-analysis by clinic founder Seyed Mehrbod Atshani examining the evidence for osteopathic manual treatment in non-specific low back pain. The review synthesized 12 randomized controlled trials and meta-analytic reports covering more than 6,000 participants across North America, France, Switzerland, and multinational populations. In the largest sham-controlled trial included, patients receiving osteopathic manual treatment were 38 percent more likely to achieve meaningful pain reduction compared to those receiving sham treatment. The largest independent meta-analysis found a mean pain reduction of nearly 15 mm on a 100 mm scale for chronic low back pain, exceeding the threshold for clinically meaningful improvement. "Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and too many patients are still told there is nothing more that can be done. This research shows that osteopathic manual treatment produces clinically meaningful, lasting improvements in pain and function that are superior to sham treatment — across multiple countries and patient populations. The evidence is consistent and it is compelling. — Seyed Mehrbod Atshani, Founder, Best Osteopathy Key Findings • Patients receiving OMT were 38% more likely to achieve meaningful pain reduction (30% or more from baseline) compared to sham treatment in the largest RCT (n=455, p<0.001) • The largest independent meta-analysis (15 RCTs, 1,502 patients) found a mean pain reduction of -14.93 mm on a 100 mm VAS for chronic low back pain (p<0.05) • Functional disability also improved significantly with a standardized mean difference of -0.32 (p<0.05) • Patients with higher baseline pain severity derived the greatest benefit from OMT • Recovery rates (return to near-normal pain and function) were significantly higher in OMT patients than sham patients at 12-week follow-up • Results were consistent across North America, France, Switzerland, and multinational populations • No serious adverse events were reported across any of the included studies. About the Research This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted by Seyed Mehrbod Atshani, founder of Best Osteopathy Vancouver and an international graduate medical doctor who practiced as an ER and general physician before transitioning to manual osteopathy. The full paper is available at bestosteopathy.ca . About Best Osteopathy Best Osteopathy is a multi-location manual osteopathic clinic serving Metro Vancouver with four locations in Downtown Vancouver, Brentwood Burnaby, New Westminster, and Richmond. All practitioners are registered members of the College of Registered Manual Osteopaths (CRMO — manualosteopaths.org). Services include manual osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, naprapathy, and BioFlex Cold Laser Therapy. No referral required. Most extended health plans accepted. Clinic Locations • Downtown Vancouver — 658 Homer St, Suite 410, Vancouver, BC V6B 2X1 • Brentwood Burnaby — 1920 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, BC V5C 0K3 • New Westminster — 102-661 Columbia St, New Westminster, BC V3M 1A8 • Richmond — Unit 1, 3891 Chatham St, Richmond, BC V7E 2Z5 Media Contact Best Osteopathy Phone: (604) 445-1456 Email: [email protected] Website: bestosteopathy.ca CRMO: manualosteopaths.org
- June 15, 2026Business
Shared Roots Across the Strait, United in Blessings: The 18th Cross-Strait Forum Chen Jinggu Cultural Week Concludes Successfully in Gutian
From June 10 to 12, the 18th Cross-Strait Forum Chen Jinggu Cultural Week was successfully held in Gutian County, Fujian Province. Hosted by the Ningde Municipal People's Government, this year's event was themed "A Millennium of Linshui Affection, One Family Across the Strait", attracting approximately 630 guests from both sides of the Taiwan Strait, Hong Kong, Macao, and overseas Chinese communities, including more than 300 representatives from Taiwan. On the evening of June 10, the Cultural Week opened with a vibrant program of traditional folk performances at the Pilgrimage Square of the Linshui Palace in Gutian, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and local customs of eastern Fujian and Gutian. On the morning of June 11, the "Nurses of the World Return to the Ancestral Temple" ceremony was solemnly held at the ancestral Linshui Palace. Participating temples were presented with commemorative certificates and official temple accreditation certificates. During the event, organizers also launched the Pilot Program for Common Standards of Chen Jinggu Folk Belief Culture Across the Taiwan Strait, marking a new step toward preserving and promoting this shared cultural heritage. The event was broadcast live across multiple platforms operated by the Fujian Media Group, including Haibo TV's WeChat Video Channel, Haibo TV App, Douyin, and Weibo. The livestream attracted more than 4.15 million views, while shares, likes, comments, and community interactions exceeded 121,000 engagements. On the morning of June 12, the official opening ceremony took place at the Linshui Palace Pilgrimage Square, bringing the Cultural Week to its climax. Representatives from both sides of the Taiwan Strait jointly inaugurated the event amid a festive atmosphere. Congratulatory video messages from affiliated temples in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macao, and various regions of the Chinese mainland were featured throughout the ceremony. Attendees also enjoyed performances showcasing China's national intangible cultural heritage and distinctive traditions associated with the Chen Jinggu belief culture. To further promote comprehensive exchanges and integration between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, four parallel thematic events were held on the afternoon of June 12, focusing on youth development, women's exchanges, economic and trade cooperation, and volunteer engagement. Chen Jinggu, also known as Lady Linshui, is revered as a protector of women and children, celebrated for safeguarding childbirth, protecting mothers and infants, and blessing communities. She is regarded as one of Fujian's most influential female deities. As the birthplace of Chen Jinggu belief culture, the ancestral Linshui Palace in Gutian serves as the spiritual center of a tradition that has spread worldwide. Today, there are more than 5,000 Linshui Palace branch temples across the globe, with over 120 million followers. In Taiwan alone, more than 500 temples are dedicated primarily to Chen Jinggu, while over 3,000 additional temples honor her alongside other deities, with a combined following exceeding 10 million believers. Through more than a millennium of transmission and development, Chen Jinggu belief culture has become an important component of the shared cultural heritage of Fujian and Taiwan. Its enduring influence serves as a vivid testament to the common ancestry, cultural roots, and historical bonds shared by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Through a series of solemn rituals, cultural exhibitions, and in-depth exchanges, this year's Chen Jinggu Cultural Week provided participants with an opportunity to reconnect with a shared cultural memory deeply rooted in Chinese civilization. The event also highlighted the efforts of Ningde City and Gutian County to translate the concept of "One Family Across the Strait" into meaningful cultural practice, contributing to the exploration of new pathways for cross-strait integrated development. The opening ceremony and grand sacrificial rites were livestreamed throughout the event by multiple media platforms, including Haibo TV of Fujian Media Group, Fujian News Channel, the Fujian International Communication Center (FJICC) Video Channel, the "Gutian Release" Video Channel, the Douyin account of the Gutian County Media Center, Live Gutian, and the overseas social media accounts of the Gutian County Media Center, including Facebook and YouTube accounts of the Ancestral Linshui Palace. The broadcasts generated more than 5.13 million views across all platforms, while shares, likes, comments, and community interactions exceeded 176,000 engagements.
- June 15, 2026Business
"Visions on FTP" Salon Held in Haikou, with Chinese and Foreign Guests Discussing Prospects Brought by Special Customs Operations
On June 13, a salon titled "An Invitation from Hainan to Connect with Global Insights: Visions on FTP" was held in Haikou. The event coincided with the six-month landmark of the full implementation of the island-wide special customs operations for the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP). Three leading international finance and economics content creators, along with an international relations expert, were invited to observe Hainan at a close distance and offer recommendations from a global perspective, presenting to the world a vivid picture of China's deepened reform, opening-up, and high-quality development. During the session titled "My Top Discoveries About the Hainan Free Trade Port," three international guests shared their observations and discoveries after a week-long field trip. They visited the Haikou National High-tech Industrial Development Zone, Ecologic Software Park, Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, and Sanya Central Business District, and also watched the launch of a Long March 5 rocket. In their themed speeches, the three guests shared their own discoveries of the development of FTP over the past six months of special customs operations. Rocky Xu, a finance and business content creator, making a themed speech Rocky Xu, a finance and business content creator with over 770,000 high-net-worth subscribers on YouTube, is called "Wall Street Narrator" by netizens. He analyzed Hainan's institutional innovations from the perspective of capital flow. He noted that over the past six months, the industrial development models in parks like the Ecologic Software Park and Haikou High-tech Zone are increasingly attracting global capital aimed at long-term investment. Jannelize Bessenger, a lifestyle and business environment content creator, making a themed speech Jannelize Bessenger (Lizzy), a South African video creator with over 700,000 followers across platforms, has lived in China for seven years. As one of the first foreign creators to share authentic Chinese experiences, she talked about her perceptions and observations in Hainan since the implementation of the special customs operations. "The policies aren't cold documents,” she said. “They're the openness and efficiency I can feel every day." Josef Gregory Mahoney is a professor of international relations at East China Normal University. He analyzed the international political and economic landscape, pointing out that the smooth implementation of Hainan's special customs operations over the past six months demonstrates China's resolve and capability for high-level institutional opening-up. In the afternoon, the inaugural taping of “V-Table Talk” serial financial talk show began. Five Chinese and international guests, finance and business content creator Rocky Xu, lifestyle and business environment content creator Jannelize Bessenger (Lizzy), international relations expert Josef Gregory Mahoney, and HIMC’s two special overseas communication ambassadors, engaged in in-depth discussions. Topics included turning climate resources into industrial competitiveness, investment ratings for capital markets, transforming intangible assets into cultural tourism IP, and the micro-economics of sports events. The program will be transmitted through the matrix of domestic and international media networks under the New Media Center for Hainan Broadcasting Station and via the guests' own personal social media channels. Prior to the salon, the Chinese and international guests conducted a five-day field visit across Hainan. They toured key parks and projects, including the Haikou National High-tech Industrial Development Zone, the Ecologic Software Park, Hainan Tropical Automobile Test Co., the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, and the Sanya Central Business District. They also watched the launch of a Long March 5 rocket at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Center. This tour provided a multi-faceted view of Hainan’s transition from "policy implementation" to the “production of tangible impact" after six months of FTP’s special customs operations.
- June 15, 2026Business
18th Cross-Straits Forum Held in Xiamen
The 18th Cross-Straits Forum opened this morning (June 13) in Xiamen, Fujian Province. CPPCC Chair Wang Huning Delivers Remarks at the Straits Forum. Wang Huning, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, stated that in April this year, when General Secretary Xi Jinping met with Zheng Liwen, Chairman of the Kuomintang, he delivered an important address that charted the course for promoting peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advancing the great cause of national reunification, injecting strong momentum into fostering cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation and deepening integrated development across the Strait.We have consistently upheld the shared conviction that our national territory must not be divided, the state must not descend into chaos, the Chinese people must not be scattered, and the continuity of Chinese civilization must not be broken. We have consistently approached the overall situation of cross-Strait relations from the perspective of the overall interests of the Chinese nation and long-term development. Wehave consistently heeded the shared aspiration of compatriots on both sides of the Strait for peace, development, exchanges, and cooperation. We have consistently adhered to the One-China Principle and the 1992 Consensus, unswervingly pursued the path of peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, resolutely advanced the great cause of national reunification, and steadfastly worked to jointly createlasting wellbeing for the Chinese nation. Wang stated that Chinese mainland and Taiwan belong to one and the same China, sharing weal and woe in a community with a shared future. Compatriots on both sides of the Strait should firmly stand on the right side of history and on the side of national justice, resolutely forge a strong sense of a shared community for the Chinese nation, and firmly oppose "Taiwan independence" separatism and external interference, while safeguarding, building, and developing our shared home of the Chinese nation. We embrace the vision that people on both sides of the Taiwan Straitare of the same family, and we implement policies ensuring that Taiwan compatriots enjoy equal treatment. We are willing to share development opportunities and achievements with our Taiwan compatriots. Therefore, we welcome Taiwan compatriots and Taiwan enterprises to participate in the tide of cross-Strait exchanges, cooperation, and integrated development, and to contribute to Chinese mainland's high-quality development and modernization. This year's forum continues the theme of "Expanding People-to-People Exchanges and Deepening Integration and Development". It will successively host the main forum event, along with 58 related activities across four major sections: community-level exchanges, youth exchanges, cultural exchanges, and economic exchanges. With a broad range of Taiwanese participants, this year’s forum brings together attendees from different fields, professions, and age groups. Notably, the proportions of first-time Taiwanese attendees and Taiwanese youth participants continue to rise. As the largest, broadest, and most influential people-to-people exchange event across the Taiwan Strait, the Forum has attracted more than 100,000 Taiwanese participants since it was first held in 2009.
- June 14, 2026Health
KyCOMPASS Expands Access to Perinatal Mental Health and Substance Use Support for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2023, around 160,000 women died from preventable maternal causes. It's clear that a lot can be done about deaths from childbirth, but even those who have successful births may deal with complicated situations afterward. For example, those who are pregnant or have infants may deal with substance abuse disorders. This new life situation can be difficult to deal with, and a genetic disposition to substances can make new maternal lives challenging. Most doctors only deal with physical issues with childbirth and childrearing, but unfortunately, this isn't comprehensive enough to address mental health and substance abuse issues. This leaves a wide niche that must be fulfilled. Kentucky Consultation & Outreach Program for Maternal Psychiatry and Support Services ( KyCOMPASS ) recognizes that new mothers may be overwhelmed with their novel situations. There's not enough done to acknowledge the stress associated with motherhood, and the staff at KyCOMPASS is there to do so. This initiative is intended to connect medical professionals with those who are pregnant so they get the mental healthcare they need. There are licensed clinicians and perinatal psychiatry specialists who are on call to review questions and connect with medical professionals on weekdays during business hours (9:00 am to 5:00 pm ET). The purpose of KyCOMPASS's services is to support healthcare providers caring for pregnant and postpartum people who are experiencing mental health or substance use concerns. These professionals have access to a wide assortment of tools and resources on KyCOMPASS's website, such as near-real-time or scheduled psychiatric consultation, clinical decision-making support, screening tools, clinical resources, referral support, care coordination, optional education and training, and provider-facing toolkits and educational materials. The best thing about KyCOMPASS's services is that they're entirely free. In addition, they're secure and confidential, so all healthcare providers who use their services can utilize these resources without having to pay, and they can trust that all information sourced is entirely secured, too. In fact, medical professionals can get print-ready materials that allow them to provide their patients with training, toolkits, and educational resources. These resources cover a range of perinatal mental and behavioral health topics, which ensures that new mothers get the care they need. Plus, KyCOMPASS has a large range of training and educational resources for healthcare providers to give to pregnant and postpartum patients. It includes webinars, workshops, toolkits, and screening guides, as well as guidance on the best practices in perinatal mental health. This organization often holds events to help educate healthcare professionals on helping their patients with trauma, addiction, and other difficult situations while navigating motherhood, as it can be a really hard time to deal with everything at once.
- June 14, 2026Event Announcement
Vancouver Osteopath Publishes Landmark Research Showing Manual Osteopathy Outperforms Sham Treatment for Low Back Pain
Systematic review and meta-analysis by Best Osteopathy founder Mehrbod Atshani covers 12 randomized controlled trials and more than 6,000 patients across eight countries. Best Osteopathy, a multi-location manual osteopathic clinic serving Metro Vancouver, announces the publication of a peer-reviewed systematic review and meta-analysis by clinic founder Seyed Mehrbod Atshani examining the evidence for osteopathic manual treatment in non-specific low back pain. The review synthesized 12 randomized controlled trials and meta-analytic reports covering more than 6,000 participants across North America, France, Switzerland, and multinational populations. In the largest sham-controlled trial included, patients receiving osteopathic manual treatment were 38 percent more likely to achieve meaningful pain reduction compared to those receiving sham treatment. The largest independent meta-analysis found a mean pain reduction of nearly 15 mm on a 100 mm scale for chronic low back pain, exceeding the threshold for clinically meaningful improvement. "Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and too many patients are still told there is nothing more that can be done. This research shows that osteopathic manual treatment produces clinically meaningful, lasting improvements in pain and function that are superior to sham treatment — across multiple countries and patient populations. The evidence is consistent and it is compelling. — Seyed Mehrbod Atshani, Founder, Best Osteopathy Key Findings • Patients receiving OMT were 38% more likely to achieve meaningful pain reduction (30% or more from baseline) compared to sham treatment in the largest RCT (n=455, p<0.001) • The largest independent meta-analysis (15 RCTs, 1,502 patients) found a mean pain reduction of -14.93 mm on a 100 mm VAS for chronic low back pain (p<0.05) • Functional disability also improved significantly with a standardized mean difference of -0.32 (p<0.05) • Patients with higher baseline pain severity derived the greatest benefit from OMT • Recovery rates (return to near-normal pain and function) were significantly higher in OMT patients than sham patients at 12-week follow-up • Results were consistent across North America, France, Switzerland, and multinational populations • No serious adverse events were reported across any of the included studies. About the Research This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted by Seyed Mehrbod Atshani, founder of Best Osteopathy Vancouver and an international graduate medical doctor who practiced as an ER and general physician before transitioning to manual osteopathy. The full paper is available at bestosteopathy.ca . About Best Osteopathy Best Osteopathy is a multi-location manual osteopathic clinic serving Metro Vancouver with four locations in Downtown Vancouver, Brentwood Burnaby, New Westminster, and Richmond. All practitioners are registered members of the College of Registered Manual Osteopaths (CRMO — manualosteopaths.org). Services include manual osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, naprapathy, and BioFlex Cold Laser Therapy. No referral required. Most extended health plans accepted. Clinic Locations • Downtown Vancouver — 658 Homer St, Suite 410, Vancouver, BC V6B 2X1 • Brentwood Burnaby — 1920 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, BC V5C 0K3 • New Westminster — 102-661 Columbia St, New Westminster, BC V3M 1A8 • Richmond — Unit 1, 3891 Chatham St, Richmond, BC V7E 2Z5 Media Contact Best Osteopathy Phone: (604) 445-1456 Email: [email protected] Website: bestosteopathy.ca CRMO: manualosteopaths.org
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- HOVER HERO Launches Autonomous Coastal Safety Platform Designed to Transform Ocean Awareness and Human-Shark Coexistence
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