Soul App Releases International Women's Day Report: Gen Z Women Unplugging to Thrive
SHANGHAI, March 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- International Women's Day is an annual occasion to extend blessings to women around the world. Recently, Soul App, a leading AI+ immersive social platform in China, together with its research arm Just So Soul Institute, published the Soul App Report on the Life Status and Self-Pleasing Consumption of Gen Z Women. Drawing on a validated sample of 2,618 female users, 97% of whom belong to Generation Z, the report shows that today's young women are increasingly prioritizing internal order over external labels. I. Rediscovering the Authentic Self Over 60% of respondents said they feel indifferent toward labels like "queen." That sentiment is especially pronounced among post-2000s women, where only 16.12% find such terms appealing. The findings point to a growing wariness among young women about excessive labeling. Rather than outright rejecting festive greetings, they simply want to be seen and understood as authentic individuals. In terms of lifestyle, more than 87% of respondents agree that taking an "intermittent mental pause" is a necessary form of psychological self-care. When energy reserves run low, "unplugging" becomes a necessity. Whether through solitary strolls or an information detox, Gen Z women are prioritizing mental well-being as a way to reset their pace. For them, a pause is not a withdrawal; it is a replenishment. It is the essential gathering of strength for the long haul. When it comes to personal growth, only 10.89% of respondents maintain a high frequency of skill-based investments. Most prefer to plan their development at their own pace. They do not shy away from competition or progress, but seek a balance between realistic conditions and personal goals, emphasizing steady advancement over blind conformity. It's worth noting that, according to the data, Gen Z women are particularly drawn to narratives about empowered women and are looking for more inspiring figures to look up to. II. Heart over Hype The sample predominantly consists of women who are either still in school or in the early stages of their careers. Yet, they demonstrate considerable maturity in value judgment and boundary setting. The report shows that 70% of post-2000s women consider "comfort and a sense of meaning in work" as important factors. In the context of widespread AI adoption, more than half of respondents earning over RMB 10,000 per month frequently use AI tools to enhance efficiency. At the same time, 47% believe that automated performance evaluations may negatively impact their sense of well-being, and over two-thirds actively seek ways to reduce algorithmic interference in their lives. These women embrace AI-driven efficiency without sacrificing independent judgment. They refuse to be shaped by algorithms, insisting that technology should offer both utility and warmth. Furthermore, 48% of respondents identify inner alignment as the cornerstone of personal growth. This internal shift is fueled by tangible self-investment: half of those surveyed view spending on new skills as a vital safety net. For them, growth is an intentional pursuit on their own terms, rather than a reactive escape from peer pressure. III. The Evolution of Self-Pleasure For today's women, self-pleasure is undergoing a profound shift. Moving past the checkout counter, it now represents a proactive stance on mental health and personal balance. The report reveals that 59.23% of post-2000s women are investing in "small, frivolous joys," such as stress-relief toys and aromatherapy. These "self-pleasing" purchases act as an "emotional band-aid," providing a vital buffer to restore mental energy. Notably, 65.92% of the respondents reported spending over RMB 2,000 on such purchases. For many, these modest indulgences are more than just shopping; they are intentional acts of emotional recharge and self-repair. The report also highlights a structural shift in aesthetic awareness. Interestingly, 37.27% of women in lower-tier cities identify "aesthetic expression" as a core spending priority — outpacing their counterparts in first-tier hubs. This suggests that, even in contexts with varying resources, aesthetic expression remains an important form of self-affirmation. For these women, clothing choices and personal interests are not about keeping up with others, but about defining who they are in a complex world. Ending Soul App, a key hub for young users, has long championed the value shifts within its community. For the platform, International Women's Day is a call for empathy and insight. By grounding its report in real-world perspectives, Soul App helps shape a more inclusive conversation, spotlighting the multifaceted lives of women today.
2026-03-06 05:34:00

Under House Arrest Amid Restrictions In Kashmir, Says Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
(MENAFN - IANS) Srinagar, March 6 (IANS) Senior religious leader and chief cleric of Kashmir, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, said on Friday that authorities have placed him under house arrest as restrictions ...
2026-03-06 05:30:44

State Budget: Karnataka To Move Ahead With Mekedatu Project After SC Relief, Says Siddaramaiah
(MENAFN - IANS) Bengaluru, March 6 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said the dismissal of petitions filed by Tamil Nadu in the Supreme Court against the Controversial Mekedatu ...
2026-03-06 05:30:43

Himachal CM Opens Robotic Surgery Facility In Nerchowk Medical College
(MENAFN - IANS) Shimla, March 6 (IANS) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday inaugurated a robotic surgery facility at Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Government Medical College ...
2026-03-06 05:30:41

Horion to Showcase M6APro V2 Interactive Flat Panel Display with Quad-Camera and AI Features at ISE 2026
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Horion, a leading technology company specializing in interactive flat panel displays, showcased its latest innovation—the M6APro V2 interactive flat panel display (IFPD)—at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2026, held in Barcelona, Spain, on February 3, 2026. Featuring a cutting-edge quad-camera system, including a 48-megapixel primary camera alongside three additional 8-megapixel cameras, the M6APro V2 enables advanced multi-angle capture and intelligent video conferencing capabilities. ISE Exhibition Booth Photo Available in sizes ranging from 65 to 98 inches, the M6APro V2 supports multiple camera modes and integrates AI-powered features such as automated speaker tracking, intelligent noise suppression, and real-time collaboration tools. Its expansive display empowers teams to simultaneously view content, annotations, and shared materials—making it ideal for diverse meeting environments from intimate huddle rooms to executive boardrooms. "At ISE 2026, we were thrilled to present the M6APro V2—a versatile solution designed for today's dynamic meeting spaces," said the Global Head of Sales & Marketing at Horion. "By combining a high-resolution quad-camera system with advanced AI functionalities and large-format interactive displays, we enable enterprises to enhance collaboration and engagement across both physical and hybrid workspaces." The M6APro V2 seamlessly integrates with major collaboration platforms and existing conference room infrastructures, allowing organizations to adopt AI-enhanced communication without significant changes to their setups. About HorionHorion is a technology innovator dedicated to developing and manufacturing smart interactive displays and collaboration solutions. The company delivers integrated hardware and software products that enhance communication, teamwork, and digital interaction across professional environments worldwide. For more information about the Horion,visit: global.horion.comFind us on:LinkedInFacebookYouTube
2026-03-03 09:27:00

Delisted TN Parties Find Place In DMK, AIADMK Alliances Amid Legal Battle With ECI
(MENAFN - IANS) Chennai, March 2 (IANS) Even as they wage a legal battle against the Election Commission of India (ECI) over their recent delisting, five political parties in Tamil Nadu have managed ...
2026-03-01 23:30:37

Akshay Kumar Calls Tiger Shroff His 'Younger Brother' In Heartfelt Birthday Note
(MENAFN - IANS) Mumbai March 2 (IANS) Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar took to social media to share a beautiful post for actor Tiger Shroff calling him as his–younger brother–.The superstar ...
2026-03-01 23:30:36

PL-Universe with Stanford: Groundbreaking Physical AI & Robot Event Successfully Concluded
STANFORD, Calif., Feb. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 26, PL-Universe Robotics successfully held a flagship Physical AI & Robot event at Stanford University, themed Robots Master the Production Line? PL-Universe: VLA for Autonomy, Robotics & Investment. The event gathered Stanford students, robotics and autonomous driving practitioners, veteran investors and academic experts, fostering in-depth discussions on VLA technological breakthroughs, industrial robotics deployment, and investment logic in the era of Embodied AI, showcasing the strength of China's Deep Tech in the global & physical AI frontier. PL-Universe ProWhite Robot As a pioneer in industrial-grade embodied AI robotics, PL-Universe's Founder & COO Ge Jin delivered a keynote speech, proposing the innovative "universal ontology + rapidly replaceable dedicated end-effectors" solution to meet the rigorous industrial demands for flexibility, reliability and large-scale deployment, redefining the new paradigm of intelligent manufacturing. Quan Kuichen, Head of PL-Universe's Large Model Team, decoded VLA's industrial applications, sharing the company's technological breakthroughs in multi-modal data collection, cloud-edge collaboration and few-shot learning, driving embodied AI from lab to production lines with sub-millimeter precision and real-time performance. Xing Lei, a renowned automotive industry observer, analyzed the global competition landscape of physical AI, noting that China excels in supply chains and scenarios while the US leads in algorithms and chips in the embodied AI field, calling for complementary Sino-US cooperation. TSVC General Partner Spencer Greene gave a venture capital perspective on investing in Embodied AI startups. He discussed opportunities driven by structural labor shortages that can be solved by Embodied AI systems and emphasized a focus on real commercial value, while cautioning against some of the hype in the humanoid sector. Adhering to "driving industrial upgrading through technological innovation", PL-Universe will continue to deepen R&D in industrial embodied AI and strengthen global cooperation to empower the intelligent transformation of global manufacturing.
2026-02-28 13:03:00

US-Iran War: Flights Between Kathmandu And Gulf Cities Cancelled ​
(MENAFN - IANS) Kathmandu, Feb 28 (IANS) More than a dozen scheduled flights between Nepal and various cities in Gulf countries were cancelled on Saturday following the escalation of war between the ...
2026-02-28 13:00:40

Our Girls Have Made Us Proud In Entire India, Says DDCA Secretary After Women's One-Day Trophy Win
(MENAFN - IANS) New Delhi, Feb 28 (IANS) Fourteen years is a long time to wait for a trophy, and Delhi looked determined to end that long drought. After bowling out a formidable Railways for just ...
2026-02-28 13:00:39

T20 WC: Shanaka's Heroics Eliminate Pakistan Sri Lanka Suffer Last-Ball Heartbreak
(MENAFN - IANS) Kandy, Feb 28 (IANS) Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka's fighting knock of 76 runs was not enough as Pakistan edged past the hosts for a five-run victory in their final match of the ...
2026-02-28 13:00:20

Modi da Netanyahu: alleanza strategica India-Israele contro «assi radicali sciita e sunnita»
NEW DELHI - La lunga transizione di New Delhi dal sostegno incondizionato alla causa palestinese a un crescente allineamento strategico con lo Stato d’Israele ha compiuto ieri una nuova tappa,...
2026-02-25 16:40:00

Nobu Hospitality Announces Nobu Beach Inn, Barbuda
New Hotel and Residential Development Will Join the Established Nobu Barbuda Restaurant on the Scenic Caribbean Island NEW YORK, Feb. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Nobu Hospitality, the globally recognized luxury lifestyle brand co-founded by Robert De Niro, has announced new details for the upcoming Nobu Beach Inn as part of The Beach Club, Barbuda, a low-density resort and residential community on the Caribbean Island of Barbuda. Following the successful opening of Nobu Barbuda in 2020 - a beach restaurant and lounge on the famed Princess Diana Beach that has since become a destination in its own right - De Niro has continued to expand his vision for the destination. Created in partnership with James Packer and Daniel Shamoon, Nobu Beach Inn will offer a barefoot luxury retreat immersed in its natural surroundings, capturing the understated simplicity of a bygone era. View from Nobu Residences Barbuda Set across 400 acres and two miles of beachfront on the island's southwest coast, Nobu Beach Inn will feature 36 bedrooms across 17 individual villas, a beach club, oceanfront pool, indoor and outdoor spa, kids club, outdoor cinema, two tennis courts, two padel courts, and a gym pavilion. A collection of world-class restaurants will complement Nobu, including an oceanfront grill featuring local catch and an omakase sushi bar. Integrated into lush landscaping and connected by meandering sand pathways, the single-story bungalows will use natural, sustainable materials that dissolve seamlessly into the surrounding environment. Construction is set to be completed in late 2026. Encouraging guests to explore Barbuda's extraordinary natural beauty, the fully equipped water sports center will offer dinghy sailing, water skiing and kite surfing. Sailboats and motor yachts will be available for sunset cruises, beach picnics, fishing trips, scuba diving excursions, and voyages to neighboring islands. An evolving roster of visiting wellness practitioners, DJs, fitness experts, and chefs will bring unique culinary and wellness experiences to the island. A deeply personal project for De Niro, who first discovered the property more than 30 years ago on a boat trip from Antigua, Nobu Beach Inn has been a heartfelt endeavor ever since. When the site became available ten years ago, De Niro, together with James Packer and Daniel Shamoon, knew it was time to bring the vision to life. "Since I first stepped foot on Barbuda, I knew it was special. We wanted to create a place that's comfortable, where everyone wants to gather and embrace the essence of the island. The Nobu Beach Inn is designed to complement its surroundings while maintaining the landscape's natural beauty," says De Niro. The Nobu Beach Inn will also include 25 beachfront residences, further expanding Nobu's residential portfolio. Designed for effortless turnkey ownership, residents will enjoy access to all amenities and services of Nobu Beach Inn, with the option to include their home in the resort's rental program. Each residence consists of four- or five-bedroom beachfront bungalows connected by pools, gardens, and pathways, all of which can be customized to a buyer's individual needs. Nobu Beach Inn Residences start from $12 million USD, offering the opportunity to experience life on one of the last unspoiled beaches in the Caribbean. Burton Nibbs International Airport in Barbuda opened in October 2024, offering direct private jet access and seamless inter-island transfers. V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua is well served with non-stop flights to and from North America and Europe, placing the destination within easy reach – approximately three hours from Miami, four hours from New York or Toronto, and seven and a half hours from London. From Antigua, Nobu Beach Inn is just a ten-minute helicopter transfer away. For further information, visit: https://thebeachclub.com/ Robert De Niro at Nobu Beach Inn, Barbuda
2026-02-18 14:58:00

LG ELECTRONICS PRESENTS THE FUTURE OF LUXURY HOME LIVING AT KBIS 2026
Expanded LG SIGNATURE and SKS Lineups and New Builder Solutions Strengthen LG's North American B2B Appliance Strategy News Summary LG Electronics introduces its latest premium home solutions at KBIS 2026, including AI-powered appliances and design-led innovations across kitchen and laundry categories. The exhibit highlights expanded LG SIGNATURE and SKS lineups featuring refined design, advanced functionality and intelligent features. LG's Core Tech-powered appliances deliver exceptional performance in diverse residential spaces while the LG ThinQTM AI platform enables a seamless smart home integration. LG also presents builder-focused appliance packages and the ThinQ Pro platform, designed to support B2B customers across diverse residential environments. SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics (LG) is showcasing a wide selection of premium home solutions at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), North America's largest kitchen and bath tradeshow, held in Orlando, Florida, from February 17-19. Featuring the expanded LG SIGNATURE portfolio, SKS's luxury appliances and the ThinQ AI and ThinQ Pro platforms, the exhibit highlights LG's expanding presence across both consumer and builder markets in North America. LG Electronics showcases a wide selection of luxury home solutions at KBIS 2026, North America’s largest kitchen and bath tradeshow. LG SIGNATURE: Refined Design Meets Cutting-edge Technology Visitors to LG's booth will encounter the expanded LG SIGNATURE portfolio of premium lifestyle solutions. Tailored to the evolving North American housing trends, the latest lineup combines technological innovation with refined design to reinterpret modern living. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, LG SIGNATURE offers an extended kitchen lineup covering 10 product categories. The brand's sleek solutions represent the perfect balance of form and function, combining refined design and strong performance with convenient AI features to further enhance and enrich the user experience. LG SIGNATURE presents three distinct design collections – Iconic, Tailored and Seamless – each reflecting regional lifestyle preferences and interior trends while expressing the brand's refined minimal design identity. The Iconic Collection echoes the eye-catching color palettes popular in luxury condominiums, the Tailored Collection offers customization options including materials and finishes, and the Seamless Collection – developed in collaboration with Italian luxury living brand Poliform – delivers a subtle yet elegant aesthetic that seamlessly blends in with a diverse range of interior styles. SKS Expands the High-end Living Experience from Kitchen to Laundry At KBIS 2026, LG introduces the ultra-premium SKS brand's first laundry solution alongside its latest kitchen lineup. Built on the pillars of precision, ingenuity and passion, SKS continues to expand its portfolio towards a Technicurean whole-home living environment. The new 29-inch SKS WashComboTM and SKS Dryer incorporate advanced AI-driven fabric-care technologies and can be paired to create a fully integrated, efficient laundry environment. Highlights of the SKS kitchen lineup include the much-anticipated 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Column Refrigerator, which automatically optimize cooling and ice production based on usage patterns. The innovative SKS Hidden Induction Island System delivers a clean, seamless appearance and intuitive usability with an invisible induction cooktop and downdraft hood. The all-new 36-inch Full-Flex induction cooktop with two extended cooking zones that support oversized cookware up to 12.6 inches is also on display. LG is hosting live cooking shows at its booth, allowing visitors to experience the intelligent features and cooking precision of the latest SKS kitchen appliances. LG's Core Tech and AI Platform Maximize Reliability and Convenience The premium appliances on show at KBIS owe their powerful performance and impressive durability to the company's highly efficient Core Tech component technologies. LG's laundry solutions incorporate proprietary Dual Inverter Heat Pump technology and Artificial Intelligence Direct DriveTM (AI DDTM) motor, while the Zero Clearance hinge in LG's Fit & Max refrigerators enables flexible installation and a flush-to-the-wall fit. LG also demonstrates how its AI Home upgrades daily living via the smooth integration of AI appliances and the ThinQ AI platform, which encompasses the ThinQ ON AI Home hub, and the ThinQ UP and ThinQ Care services. Supported by LG Shield cybersecurity system, LG's AI Home helps safeguard personal data and sensitive information while enabling personalized comfort and convenience. Broadening Builder-Focused Solutions in North America Targeting the North American builder market, LG introduces appliance packages designed for residential developments, including compact kitchen and laundry solutions as well as double-configured Styler packages. Visitors can also explore LG ThinQ Pro, a space management platform for B2B customers that enables integrated system operation through simple QR-based setup and centralized monitoring. "We are redefining the home experience across luxury, premium and mainstream segments by combining design sophistication, AI intelligence and seamless platform integration," said Steve Baek, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. "With a complete built-in appliance portfolio and differentiated builder offerings, we will continue to strengthen our leadership in the North American B2B appliance market." LG welcomes KBIS 2026 attendees to experience its latest premium home solutions firsthand at the LG booth (#W2100, Orange County Convention Center). About LG Electronics Home Appliance Solution Company The LG Home Appliance Solution Company (HS) is a global leader in home appliances and AI home solutions. By leveraging industry-leading core technologies, the HS Company is committed to enhancing consumers' quality of life and promoting sustainability. The company develops thoughtfully designed kitchen and living appliance solutions and has recently integrated LG's Robot Business Division to incorporate advanced robot technologies into its home solutions. Together, these products offer enhanced convenience, exceptional performance, efficient operation and sustainable lifestyle solutions. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com. Marking its 10th anniversary, the latest LG SIGNATURE offers an extended lineup with three distinct design collections. SKS expands the high-end living experience from kitchen to laundry. The premium appliances with LG’s Core Tech component technologies​ deliver reliability, while offering everyday convenience along with the Fit & Max design through the Zero Clearance hinge. LG introduces appliance packages designed for residential developments, along with its space management platform for B2B customers, LG ThinQ Pro.
2026-02-17 05:00:00

Andatel Grande Patong Phuket: Full Renovation Complete, Reopens Late March 2026
(MENAFN - GetNews) "Andatel Grande Patong Phuket Second Road property at sunset: 122-room hotel with two swimming pools (20x10m courtyard pool + 50x25m Olympic pool), completely renovated with 75 ...
2026-02-15 19:08:06

Obama Criticizes ICE Tactics In Minneapolis: 'Pulling People Out Of Their Homes, Using Five-Year-Olds To Bait Parents'
(MENAFN - Live Mint) Former US President Barack Obama publicly expressed support for demonstrators in Minneapolis opposing the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), calling the ...
2026-02-15 19:01:17

ABVP's Tripura Conclave: 4,000 Tribal Students Rally For Viksit Bharat
(MENAFN - AsiaNet News) Agartala witnessed a historic and powerful gathering as nearly 4,000 tribal students assembled for a grand conclave organised by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), ...
2026-02-15 19:01:08

IND Vs PAK, T20 World Cup: 5 Key Takeaways From India's 61-Run Win Over Pakistan In Colombo
(MENAFN - AsiaNet News) Team India beat Pakistan by 61 runs in T20 WC 2026, sealing a Super 8 spot. Ishan Kishan's 77 helped post 175/7, and bowlers Varun Chakravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah bundled ...
2026-02-15 19:01:08

MP CM Credits Lord Mahadev For India's T20 Win Over Pakistan
(MENAFN - AsiaNet News) CM Attributes Win to 'Blessings of Baba Mahakal' Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav congratulated the Indian cricket team on their victory against Pakistan in the ICC ...
2026-02-15 19:01:07

JNU Students Protest Rustication Of Union Leaders Over Alleged Vandalism
(MENAFN - AsiaNet News) Members of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) held a demonstration inside the University campus on Sunday to voice their demands. The protest focused on ...
2026-02-15 19:01:07

'Look Forward To Working With You': PM Modi Congratulates Tarique Rahman On BNP's Win In Bangladesh Elections
(MENAFN - IANS) New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman for leading his party, the BNP, to a decisive victory in Bangladesh's ...
2026-02-12 23:00:33

T20 WC: All Are In Good Touch, Looking To Use The Power Play As Much As We Can, Says Kishan
(MENAFN - IANS) New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India's top order has made no secret of its intent since winning the Men's T20 World Cup title they won in 2024: attack the powerplay, set the tempo, and let ...
2026-02-12 23:00:16

KOALA ECO REFLECTS ON YEAR OF PURPOSE, GROWTH AS IT PLANS FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS IN 2026
SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Feb. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Koala Eco, the mood-boosting wellness brand for cleaning, home and personal care founded by Jessica Bragdon and Paul Davidson, closed out 2025 by redefining home care, proving that products can deliver on performance, sensory experience and purpose. The Koala Eco range is available at Whole Foods Market and Koalaeco.com. In 2025, the Koala Eco team successfully ensured more of its beloved Australian botanicals were at home around the world with creative partnerships and retail expansion. At the same time, the brand tallied that it has repackaged six million recycled plastic bottles along with keeping 4.3 million liters of conventional, traditionally harsh cleaning products from entering homes and waterways as of end of the year. Koala Eco's intentional practices and exceptional products earned the brand a 2025 Leaping Bunny certification. The brand welcomed Whole Foods Market into its retail portfolio at year's end, with the renowned grocer debuting 10 products for body and home nationwide in-store and online. Beloved markets including Happier Grocery, Harris Farm and online grocers iHerb and Good Eggs also joined Sprouts, Erewhon, Goop and many other independent retailers in the US and around the world that carry Koala Eco's safe and efficacious products, taking the brand from seedlings to canopy. Creative partnerships also grew in scope and scale in 2025, including a limited-edition Laundry Wash collaboration with regenerative fashion brand Christy Dawn. In an unexpected but not surprising moment, the brand was also selected by longtime brand fan Kendall Jenner for her new mountain home and her holiday gift guide, shared with millions of followers on Instagram. The brand, founded in Australia but made locally using only Australian essential oils - never synthetic fragrance - was also pleased to spotlight their community as part of their "Our Hour in Nature" blog, including former fashion editor Laura Brown, surfer Nikki van Dijk, Marigold founder Gena Winter, chef and food stylist Diana Yen and designer Bianca Spender. With philanthropy at their core, Koala Eco continued its partnership with 1% for the Planet. It expanded its Oceanic Society's Critters Scholars commitment and is pleased to confirm that in 2025, 78% of participating kids and teens from underserved communities were in a boat on the ocean for the first time and 100% of kids participating made personal pledges to support conservation in their own communities. A new commitment to become plastic neutral also came to fruition in June with a partnership with rePurpose Global and by year's end, the brand had diverted over 72,000 pounds of plastic from nature, the equivalent of almost 5.4 million plastic bags. As 2026 unfolds, Koala Eco's leadership will continue with clear market demand, standout positioning, and a mission-driven approach: "Purpose is not just a guiding principle—it is the essence of Koala Eco," said co-founder Jessica Bragdon. "We are dedicated to creating natural, effective, and safe products while fostering a deeper connection between people and nature." About Koala Eco:Koala Eco is a purpose-led brand offering safe, powerful products for a clean home, body and mind. Our formulations blend the potency of plant-derived ingredients with the uplifting benefits of Australian essential oils, creating an aromatherapeutic experience. Founded by Jessica Bragdon and Paul Davidson in 2017 in Sydney, Australia, the brand has now expanded to the USA, where the products are also locally made. At the heart of Koala Eco is the belief that connecting with nature in everyday life can enhance wellbeing, an ethos inspired by the principles of ecopsychology. We are also committed to sustainability, using recycled, recyclable, and refillable bottles, and supporting community initiatives such as 1% for the Planet, rePurpose Global, and The Oceanic Society. Koala Eco Media Contact:Kate Walterskate@katewalterscommunications.com323-833-0159 Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2901674/The_Koala_Eco_range_is_available_at_Whole_Foods_Market_and_Koalaecocom.jpg?p=medium600Logo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2814870/Koala_Eco_Company_USA_Logo.jpg?p=medium600
2026-02-11 13:18:00

GLOBAL MANUFACTURING DEMAND REBOUNDS IN JANUARY TO ITS STRONGEST SINCE MAY 2022: GEP GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN VOLATILITY INDEX
Manufacturers in Asia raise purchasing volumes in response to order book pick up – factories in China, Japan, Korea and India bought materials more aggressively in January North America's supply chains at their busiest since May 2024 as US industrial economy shows resilience Europe remains the laggard, with firms reluctant to restock, although there are tentative signs of recovering demand CLARK, N.J., Feb. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index — a leading indicator tracking demand conditions, shortages, transportation costs, inventories and backlogs, based on a monthly survey of 27,000 businesses — showed a marked bounce back in procurement activity in January. 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are." src="https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2901675/Global_Supply_Chain_Volatility_1_Index.jpg?p=medium600" alt="Interpreting the data:Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are." align="middle" /> Interpreting the data:Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are. Procurement activity in many of the globe's major economies expanded, driving the strongest rise in worldwide demand for commodities, raw materials and components in almost four years. Industrial firms in major economies such as China, Japan, Korea, India, as well as across ASEAN markets underpinned the expansion, highlighting broad-based strength across the region. North America, which saw a slowdown through the final quarter of 2025, regained momentum as 2026 kicked off, driven by a pick-up in the US' manufacturing economy. Factory leaders across the continent also showed a greater appetite for inventory building, suggesting a certain degree of confidence in order pipelines. Europe's manufacturing sector was the laggard in January, with firms here still showing nervousness to overstock warehouses. A cooling of the downturn in purchasing activity, however, tentatively points to an improving outlook. After several months of treading water, January's data points to a broad-based recovery across U.S. manufacturing, spanning all sectors," said John Piatek, Vice President, Consulting, GEP. "Despite tariffs and trade uncertainty, manufacturers are showing real resilience, supported by a declining cost of capital that's giving procurement teams greater flexibility to adjust sourcing and inventories." JANUARY 2026 REGIONAL KEY FINDINGS ASIA: Index rises to 0.12, from -0.20, signalling that the supply chains of Asia's manufacturers were their busiest since November 2024 in January. NORTH AMERICA: Index rises to 0.06, from -0.37, indicating capacity at North America's suppliers was the most stretched in just over a year-and-a-half. EUROPE: Index dropped to -0.27, from -0.17, signaling greater spare capacity at Europe's suppliers than at the end of 2025. U.K.: Index fell to -0.17, from 0.12, pointing to a weakening of the U.K.'s manufacturing sector as its supply chains were underutilized at the start of 2026. JANUARY 2026 KEY FINDINGS DEMAND: Global demand for commodities, raw materials and intermediate goods rose by its strongest margin in almost four years during January, as manufacturers in major economies stepped up their purchasing activity at the start of 2026. Asia was a key component of this upturn, with buying growth seen in China, Japan, Korea, India, and across ASEAN, although US manufacturers also expanded procurement. INVENTORIES: Globally, reports of manufacturers intentionally stockpiling due to price or supply worries were muted. This suggests that procurement leaders are not overly concerned about product price inflation or supply. Regional differences emerged, however, with inventory building rising in North America, whereas destocking continued in Europe. MATERIAL SHORTAGES: The global items in short supply indicator stayed below its long-run average, as has been the case for nearly two-and-a-half years. This means that global businesses are experiencing shortages less frequently than normal. LABOR SHORTAGES: Labor is not a limiting factor for global production, as global manufacturers' reports of backlogs increasing due to a lack of staff were below historically typical levels during January. TRANSPORTATION: With global oil prices rising in January, the latest data pointed to an increase in transportation costs at the start of the year. For more information, visit www.gep.com/volatility. Note: Full historical data dating back to January 2005 is available for subscription. Please contact economics@spglobal.com. The next release of the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index will be 8 a.m. ET, Mar. 11, 2026. About the GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility IndexThe GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index is produced by S&P Global and GEP. It is derived from S&P Global's PMI® surveys, sent to companies in over 40 countries, totaling around 27,000 companies. The headline figure is a weighted sum of six sub-indices derived from PMI data, PMI Comments Trackers and PMI Commodity Price & Supply Indicators compiled by S&P Global. A value above 0 indicates that supply chain capacity is being stretched and supply chain volatility is increasing. The further above 0, the greater the extent to which capacity is being stretched. A value below 0 indicates that supply chain capacity is being underutilized, reducing supply chain volatility. The further below 0, the greater the extent to which capacity is being underutilized. A Supply Chain Volatility Index is also published at a regional level for Europe, Asia, North America and the U.K. For more information about the methodology, click here. About GEPGEP® delivers AI-powered procurement and supply chain solutions that help global enterprises become more agile and resilient, operate more efficiently and effectively, gain competitive advantage, boost profitability and increase shareholder value. Fresh thinking, innovative products, unrivaled domain expertise, smart, passionate people — this is how GEP SOFTWARETM, GEP STRATEGYTM and GEP MANAGED SERVICESTM together deliver procurement and supply chain solutions of unprecedented scale, power and effectiveness. Our customers are the world's best companies, including more than 1,000 Fortune 500 and Global 2000 industry leaders who rely on GEP to meet ambitious strategic, financial and operational goals. A leader in multiple Gartner Magic Quadrants, GEP's cloud-native software and digital business platforms consistently win awards and recognition from industry analysts, research firms and media outlets, including Gartner, Forrester, IDC, ISG, and Spend Matters. GEP is also regularly ranked a top procurement and supply chain consulting and strategy firm, and a leading managed services provider by ALM, Everest Group, NelsonHall, IDC, ISG and HFS, among others. Headquartered in Clark, New Jersey, GEP has offices and operations centers across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. To learn more, visit www.gep.com. Media ContactsDerek CreeveyDirector, Public RelationsGEPPhone: +1 646-276-4579Email: derek.creevey@gep.com 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are." src="https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2891567/SCVI_ALL.jpg?p=medium600" alt="Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are." align="middle" /> Interpreting the data: Index > 0, supply chain capacity is being stretched. The further above 0, the more stretched supply chains are. Index < 0, supply chain capacity is being underutilized. The further below 0, the more underutilized supply chains are. GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index Jan 2026
2026-02-11 13:13:00

Azerbaijan Remains Among World's Top 15 Tomato Exporters
(MENAFN - AzerNews)Azerbaijan exported 172,900 tons of tomatoes worth $192.5 million in 2025, marking a solid increase in both value and volume and underscoring the growing strength of the ...
2026-02-10 03:09:56

Azerbaijan Launches Unified Digital Platform To Transform Internet Services Market
(MENAFN - AzerNews)Nazrin AbdulRead moreAzerbaijan's telecommunications and postal services regulator,the Information and Communication Technologies Agency (ICTA), haslaunched the next phase of ...
2026-02-10 03:09:55

Baku, Washington Deepen Strategic Energy Partnership At High-Level Business Roundtable
(MENAFN - AzerNews)Nazrin AbdulRead moreA high-level roundtable on energy cooperation was held inAzerbaijan as part of a U.S. business mission led by Kush Choksi,Senior Vice President for the ...
2026-02-10 03:09:54

Kazakhstan Looks To Translate GDP Growth Into Higher Real Incomes, Tokayev Says
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. Kazakhstanstrives to ensure GDP growth leads to a real increase in theincomes of its citizens, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said ...
2026-02-10 03:09:34

Kazakhstan Moves From Super-Presidential Rule, President Tokayev Says
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. Kazakhstan ismoving away from a super-presidential system toward a presidentialrepublic featuring an authoritative and influential ...
2026-02-10 03:09:34

Kazakhstan And Türkiye Discuss Bolstering Strategic Partnership
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 10. Minister ofForeign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Yermek Kosherbayevmet with the Ambassador of the Republic of Tu–rkiye to ...
2026-02-10 03:09:33

Tokayev Orders Suspension Of Unnecessary Budget Projects In Kazakhstan
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. Kazakhstan'sGovernment and Akimats (local authorities) are instructed to stopfinancing projects due to concerns over unutilized ...
2026-02-10 03:09:33

President Tokayev Calls For Digitization And AI To Drive Economic Growth
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. Fulldigitalization and the introduction of AI should go beyond justbeing a support function and become a key link in ...
2026-02-10 03:09:33

President Tokayev Pushes For Swift Digital Transformation In Tax And Customs By 2027
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 10. Kazakhstanmust complete the implementation of digital tax and customsadministration by the end of 2027, President Kassym-Jomart ...
2026-02-10 03:09:33

Uzbekistan's UZCARD Partners With CDTI To Strengthen Payment Infrastructure
(MENAFN - Trend News Agency) TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, February 10. Uzbekistan'snational payment system, UZCARD, has signed a strategic partnershipmemorandum with CDTI, the developer of the Smart ...
2026-02-10 03:09:33

Palace snap nine-game winless run by beating Brighton
BRIGHTON, England, Feb 8 : Crystal Palace ended a nine-game winless run in the Premier League in the best manner possible as they beat rivals Brighton and Hove Albion 1-0 away on Sunday.Ismaila Sarr scored the only goal on the south coast, ending an hour of tedium when he lifted a shot over Bart Verbruggen to
2026-02-08 17:16:49

Figure skating-Glenn aims to inspire LGBTQ+ community during trying times
(fixes spelling of OLYMPICS in slug, no change to story)By Lori EwingMILAN, Feb 4 : U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn hopes her historic Olympic appearance will inspire others to speak up during what she described as challenging times for the LGBTQ+ community.The 26-year-old will become the first
2026-02-04 10:49:49

Viettel Inaugurates Representative Office in Singapore
SINGAPORE, Feb. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Viettel Military Industry and Telecoms Group officially inaugurated its Representative Office in Singapore, marking a key step in the Group's strategy to expand its international presence and deepen Vietnam–Singapore cooperation in high-tech industries, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and innovation. The Representative Office in Singapore is expected to open up new opportunities for Viettel in areas such as aviation, digital transformation, cybersecurity, AI, cloud services... The inauguration ceremony was attended by Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien, Standing Member of the Central Military Commission and Deputy Minister of National Defence of Vietnam; the Ambassador of Vietnam to Singapore; representatives of Singapore's Ministry of Defence and relevant authorities; together with international partners and technology enterprises operating in Singapore. Speaking at the event, Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien stated:"The establishment of Viettel's Representative Office in Singapore demonstrates Viettel's strong determination to participate more deeply in the global value chain, access advanced international standards, and expand cooperation with leading strategic partners in core technologies and high-tech industries." He reaffirmed that the Ministry of National Defence of Vietnam consistently supports Viettel's international cooperation on the basis of equality, mutual benefit, and respect for international law, and expressed his hope that Singapore's authorities will continue to support the effective operation of the office as a bridge for technology cooperation, investment, and innovation between the two countries. Representing Viettel, Mr. Cao Anh Son, Deputy General Director of Viettel Group, said:"Viettel comes to Singapore with a spirit of long-term, trusted cooperation and shared value creation. We are committed to respecting local laws and standards, promoting transparent partnerships, and investing in technology, people, and innovation." According to Viettel, the Representative Office in Singapore is positioned as a strategic gateway within the Group's global ecosystem. The office will focus on five key missions: connecting and developing regional and global digital infrastructure; expanding cooperation and deploying national-scale digital transformation solutions; promoting research, innovation, and high-tech industry development; developing high-quality technology human resources; and strengthening technology diplomacy to reinforce Viettel's position as a reputable and responsible global technology group. Vietnamese Ambassador to Singapore Tran Phuoc Anh emphasised that, as the Vietnam–Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership continues to develop in a strong and substantive manner, the presence of major Vietnamese technology groups such as Viettel in Singapore will help elevate bilateral cooperation from trade and investment to technology collaboration, innovation, and future industries. He added that the Embassy of Vietnam in Singapore stands ready to support Viettel and the Vietnamese business community in expanding a sustainable and effective presence in Singapore. On this occasion, Viettel also reached cooperation agreements with leading international technology partners including ST Engineering, Honeywell International Inc., Airbus, China Unicom, Truvisor, Jinsheng Henxing, Aeronautics, and Commvault Systems. These partnerships focus on areas such as public safety, cybersecurity, aerospace, data connectivity, AI-enabled automation, telecommunications, and cloud computing, strengthening Viettel's technological capabilities and global integration.
2026-02-04 10:46:00

Myanmar junta plans 'super-body' to tighten grip on military, new government
Myanmar's junta will form a new entity to oversee both the military and civilian administration, a move experts say will allow paramount ruler Min Aung Hlaing to become president without loosening his grip on the powerful armed forces.Just days after the completion of a final phase of an election that will se
2026-02-04 10:44:19

Ice hockey-Italy keeping the faith despite the doubters, says gold medallist Fortino
MILAN, Feb 4 : Italy's women return to the Winter Games for the first time since 2006, with Olympic gold medallist Laura Fortino providing experience and saying the host team has faith in itself even if nobody else does.Fortino won gold with Canada in 2014 and silver four years later, before the 35-year-old d
2026-02-04 10:40:58

Mỹ, Hàn đẩy nhanh tiến trình chuyển giao quyền chỉ huy tác chiến thời chiến
Theo một nguồn tin được hãng thông tấn Hàn Quốc Yonhap trích dẫn hôm nay, 04/02/2026, Hàn Quốc và Hoa Kỳ đang xem xét vạch ra một lộ trình chuyển giao quyền chỉ huy tác chiến thời chiến (OPCON) từ Washington cho Seoul trong cuộc họp cấp bộ trưởng Quốc Phòng thường niên năm nay.
2026-02-04 10:40:01

This Peranakan stall at Wisma draws long queues for its nonya laksa and the hunky brothers behind the counter
“Your arms are so big” and “I came back just to see you” are among the thirsty comments buff brothers Daryl, 27, and Damian Lim, 21, hear daily at their new stall at Wisma. 8days.sg speaks to them.
2026-02-03 00:35:38

Japan's Nikkei Posts 3 Percent Increase Tuesday
(MENAFN) Japan's primary equity benchmark experienced a dramatic surge exceeding 3 percent during Tuesday's morning trading session, driven by widespread investor appetite following strong overnight ...
2026-02-03 00:35:26