Compensation for SNS REAAL and SNS Bank Subordinated Bonds Expropriation

SNS REAAL and SNS Bank subordinated bondholders affected by the 2013 Dutch nationalization may be eligible to seek compensation following the expropriation of their securities. Martingale Risk is supporting eligible investors in assessing and pursuing potential recovery claims in the Netherlands.

ITALY – 23 May, 2026 – Martingale Risk has secured multiple private settlements through direct negotiations for investors holding SNS REAAL and SNS Bank subordinated bonds seized by the Dutch state in 2013.

The Dutch Ministry of Finance compensation application deadline expired in 2023, closing official channels. Investors and funds with unresolved SNS REAAL and SNS Bank subordinated bond holdings now require specialist assistance to pursue compensation.

Recovery Process

The approach emphasizes efficiency for clients:

  • The SNS procedure is entirely negotiation-based and does not involve any litigation;
  • Based on our experience, outcomes are expected to be seen within 3–4 months;
  • Minimal documentation: custodian statements, powers of attorney, signatory lists;
  • Purely contingent structure: no upfront fees, compensation only on successHolders of these subordinated bonds qualify for compensation, as affirmed by the Amsterdam

Holders of these subordinated bonds qualify for compensation, as affirmed by the Amsterdam Enterprise Chamber ruling of February 11, 2021:

  • XS0097515307
  • XS0172565482
  • XS0310904155
  • XS0363514893
  • XS0468954523
  • XS0552743048

If you purchased subordinated bonds issued by SNS Bank or SNS REAAL, please contact Martingale Risk for a free non-binding preliminary analysis.

More information on the case here.

Contact

Legal Counsel

Ellen Grönholm

Martingale Risk

gronholm@martingalerisk.com

+390632652828

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New research: EMEA CISOs call time on ‘tick-box’ cyber training as human cyber risk remains unresolved

EMEA CISOs are calling time on traditional security awareness training, as new research reveals that 78% believe their approach to security awareness education urgently needs to evolve.

London – May 23, 2026 – EMEA CISOs are calling time on traditional security awareness training, as new research reveals that 78% believe their approach to security awareness education urgently needs to evolve. The research from MetaCompliance, the human cyber risk management company transforming how organisations build resilient security cultures, highlights the widespread concern among CISOs that current methods are failing to address human cyber risk.

The study, which surveyed 200 CISOs across the United Kingdom, Sweden, Germany and France, found that 81% of CISOs say security awareness programmes fail because they treat human cyber risk as a training issue rather than a wider risk management challenge. At the same time, 68% of businesses identify employees as their biggest security risk, highlighting a persistent and unresolved vulnerability at the heart of enterprise security.

Despite continued investment in awareness programmes – with organisations allocating, on average, 15% of annual security budgets to awareness education and 79% delivering training at least every two weeks – outcomes remain inconsistent. A quarter (25%) of organisations say they struggle to capture employee attention, while 24% fail to embed secure behaviour into daily work, and a further 24% struggle to align stakeholders across functions. This reinforces that the challenge is as much organisational as it is behavioural.

This disconnect is being driven by an outdated approach. While many CISOs believe their organisations have moved beyond “tick-box” awareness – with some describing their approach as behaviour-led (33%) or integrating human risk management (24%) – this perceived progress is not translating into meaningful change.

James Mackay, Chief Executive Officer at MetaCompliance said: “Confidence is rising, but that doesn’t mean risk is falling. Many businesses mistake completed security training for real security, when the underlying human vulnerabilities haven’t changed.

“This creates a dangerous disconnect. Businesses feel more secure, yet employees remain the biggest source of risk. At the same time, threats are becoming more sophisticated, with AI accelerating the scale and precision of social engineering attacks. This is leaving organisations increasingly exposed if this gap isn’t addressed.”

As a result, CISOs are calling for a more strategic model. Nearly four in five (79%) want to move towards human risk management – an approach that focuses on identifying high-risk individuals and tailoring interventions based on behaviour, as well as nurturing an organisation wide, collective security culture. A further 83% believe targeted interventions would reduce risk faster, while 80% say security messaging is most effective when delivered in the flow of work.

This shift comes as organisations face increasing pressure to modernise their defences due to the evolving threat landscape. Over the next 12 months, organisations expect to focus on increasing engagement frequency (27%), demonstrating measurable ROI (25%), and tailoring interventions to high-risk individuals (24%) – particularly in response to AI-enabled social engineering (24%).

James Mackay adds: “Human cyber risk needs to be treated like any other business risk – measurable, targeted, and continuously managed. That means moving beyond awareness to genuine behaviour change. Organisations need to flip the script on how they are managing cybersecurity, using real-time targeting and insight to reach the right people, with the right message, at the right moment. That’s how you reduce human cyber risk at scale.”

Methodology

The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 200 CISOs in companies with 250+ employees (Aged 30+) across France, Germany, Sweden and the UK (50 CISOs in each market). The data was collected between 17.02.2026 – 23.02.2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. We adhere to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles

https://www.metacompliance.com/awareness-assets/security-awareness-reduce-human-risk

About MetaCompliance

MetaCompliance is the human risk management company transforming how organisations build resilient security cultures. Its intelligent enterprise-ready platform combines personalised cybersecurity education, behavioural analytics and automation to measure, mitigate and manage human risk at scale. Trusted by over six million users worldwide, MetaCompliance helps global enterprises reduce risk and embed lasting behaviour change. www.metacompliance.com

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sarah@wearedelphi.com

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Diabeloop Announces CE Marking and Gradual Launch of the New DBLG2 System, Integrated with Dexcom G7 CGM and ViCentra’s Kaleido Insulin Delivery System

Diabeloop, a pioneer in therapeutic artificial intelligence for diabetes management, today announced technical readiness, CE marking approval and the gradual European launch of its latest Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system, DBLG2, integrated with Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system.

GRENOBLE, France – May 23, 2026 – Diabeloop, a pioneer in therapeutic artificial intelligence for diabetes management, today announced technical readiness, CE marking approval and the gradual European launch of its latest Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system, DBLG2, integrated with Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system.

Available as a smartphone application on Android — and coming soon on iOS — DBLG2 will be launched progressively across selected European countries in combination with the Kaleido patch pump (ViCentra). This regulatory milestone marks a significant step in Diabeloop’s strategic transition toward a pure software, patient-centric experience, paving the way for broader European commercialization of this cutting-edge hybrid closed-loop system. Additional configuration with alternative pumps will be available soon.

A Step Forward in Discretion and Sustainability

By hosting the DBLG2 algorithm directly on the patient’s personal smartphone, Diabeloop eliminates the need for a dedicated handset. This evolution delivers unmatched discretion and ease of use, while meaningfully reducing the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing and distributing dedicated hardware devices.

Combining Advanced Therapeutic Algorithms with the Power of Choice

This new configuration brings together best-in-class technologies, giving patients the freedom to build a system that fits their lifestyle:

  • Diabeloop’s DBLG2 Application: Running on the user’s own smartphone, the self-learning algorithm continuously analyzes glucose data, calculates insulin needs in real time, and automatically adjusts delivery — significantly reducing the daily mental burden of diabetes management. Notably, meal announcements are no longer mandatory, though announcing meals may support better glycemic outcomes.
  • Dexcom G7 CGM: Dexcom G7 offers a better way to help users gain greater control of their diabetes, so that they can manage it more confidently each day. Its low-profile, all-in-one wearable warms up faster than any other CGM on the market, sending real-time glucose readings automatically to a compatible smart device or receiver, no fingerpricks or scanning required. Dexcom G7 also offers a suite of customizable alerts that can warn of high or low glucose levels and send predictive alerts to help users spend more time in range. Industry-leading remote monitoring and reporting capabilities also allow users to stay connected with their loved ones and care teams anytime, anywhere.
  • The Kaleido Insulin Pump by ViCentra: A uniquely customizable patch pump, available in multiple colors and wearing configurations, designed to integrate seamlessly into patients’ everyday lives.


“We are thrilled to bring this highly anticipated integration to the European market,”
said François Miceli, Chief Executive Officer at Diabeloop. “By pairing our DBLG2 mobile algorithm with the advanced accuracy of Dexcom G7, and offering compatibility with ViCentra’s Kaleido and soon other pumps, we are empowering patients with unprecedented choice, discretion, and optimal glycemic control.”

Continuity of Support for Current DBLG1 Users

Diabeloop wishes to reassure existing users of its DBLG1 solution: The introduction of Dexcom G7 will have no immediate impact on their experience. The company will continue to fully support the current version of the solution and will provide clear guidance to help users transition smoothly when the time is right.

Availability and Indication

The commercial rollout of the DBLG2 system — integrated with Dexcom G7 and Kaleido insulin pump — will begin progressively across selected European countries in the coming months. Availability will vary by country and pump partner. DBLG2 is indicated for the management of adults with type 1 diabetes.

About Diabeloop

Founded in 2015, Diabeloop develops AI-based solutions to help people living with diabetes automate and personalize their treatment. By connecting CGMs and insulin pumps through proprietary self-learning algorithms, Diabeloop enables users to delegate therapeutic decisions and live with fewer daily interruptions. — diabeloop.com

About ViCentra (Kaleido)

ViCentra was founded in 2013 with a mission to create healthcare products that don’t look like healthcare products. Their Kaleido insulin pump is designed to be small, colorful, and easy to use, giving people with diabetes more freedom and choice. — vicentra.com

Press Contact: contact@diabeloop.fr

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Company Name: Diabeloop
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Country: France
Website: diabeloop.fr

Mellow launches Contractor Management, powered by Airwallex, to simplify how companies hire and pay global teams

Mellow launches Contractor Management, powered by Airwallex, to simplify how companies hire and pay global teams
The new product combines Mellow’s contractor operations platform with Airwallex’s global financial infrastructure to give businesses a single system for contracting, compliance, and cross-border payments.

Limassol, Cyprus and London, United Kingdom – May 23th, 2026 – Mellow, a contractor operations platform serving over 1,500 clients, has launched Contractor Management — a product that lets companies hire, contract, and pay global teams from a single platform. The product is built in partnership with Airwallex, a leading global financial platform for modern businesses, which enables fast, compliant payments to contractors and freelancers in 150+ countries.

Contractor Management is available now for businesses with entities in the United States and the European Union.

According to industry estimates, the global gig economy is projected to reach $674 billion in 2026, with nearly 1.6 billion independent workers worldwide. Industries like gaming, creative production, martech, and SaaS increasingly rely on distributed, project-based teams — yet most solutions on the market are designed for full-time employment, treating contractor operations as a secondary feature. Companies end up stitching together multiple tools for contracts, compliance, scopes of work, and international payments — often with hidden fees at every step.

Contractor Management covers the entire workflow — from hiring and onboarding to processing payments through locally available methods — all in one place, at a flat rate of €35 per contractor per month. The product replaces manual processes with automation: a company pays a single invoice to Mellow to distribute payments to thousands of contractors across different bank accounts, currencies, and payment methods.

To build the payments layer, Mellow partnered with Airwallex rather than developing proprietary systems from scratch. Businesses rely on Mellow to manage their contractor operations, while Airwallex powers every payment underneath — handling transfers, compliance, and multi-currency payouts across 150+ countries. With Airwallex’s financial infrastructure, Mellow built and launched a product that would have required years of engineering work — in a matter of months.

“What we’ve built with Airwallex is infrastructure behind the infrastructure — companies rely on Mellow to run their contractor operations, and Airwallex powers every payment underneath. We see Contractor Management as the growth engine for Mellow this year,” said Pavel Shynkarenko, Founder and CEO at Mellow.

“Platforms like Mellow need more than payments – they need scalable global infrastructure. By embedding Airwallex’s multi-currency and cross-border capabilities, we’re enabling fast, compliant payouts in 150+ countries and helping power the next generation of global contractor platforms,” said Or Liban, VP, Middle East & Benelux at Airwallex.

Mellow’s immediate priority is scaling its Contractor Management client base across the industries where it sees the strongest demand. The company plans to double its CM client base and expand into new geographies in the coming quarters. The foundation built with Airwallex positions Mellow to enter additional markets and unlock new revenue streams as the product matures.

About Mellow

Mellow is a contractor operations platform that transforms the way businesses work with contingent workers. With products like Contractor-of-Record, Contractor Management, and AI Scout, Mellow streamlines talent onboarding, contracting, and payments, especially in hard-to-reach countries. The company serves over 1,500 clients, including SumSub, SPLAT, Appnext, and G2G, managing a network of 200,000+ contractors across 100+ countries. Mellow operates globally with offices in New York, Amsterdam, Cyprus, and Hong Kong.

About Airwallex

Airwallex is a leading global financial platform for modern businesses. By combining proprietary infrastructure with software and AI, Airwallex helps businesses manage accounts, control spend, and embed financial services — replacing fragmented, legacy systems with a unified platform for global financial operations. Founded in Melbourne in 2015 and trusted by over 200,000 businesses worldwide, Airwallex holds 80+ licenses across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. The company is co-headquartered in San Francisco and Singapore.

Press contact

Mellow: pr@mellow.io

Airwallex: press@airwallex.com

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Wright-Patt Credit Union, Inc. Selects Cactus as Agency of Record

Agency to Provide Strategy, Creative and Media Support to Strengthen Member Relationships and Drive Growth Across Ohio

DENVER – May 23, 2026 – Cactus, a full-service creative agency specializing in strategy, creative, and media, will partner with Wright-Patt Credit Union, Inc. (WPCU), the largest credit union in Ohio, to help protect and grow the credit union’s strong member base while supporting expansion into new and existing markets.

“Wright-Patt Credit Union doesn’t just say it puts members first—it has built its entire business around that belief,” said Joe Conrad, CEO of Cactus. “We’re helping them turn that credibility into a sharper, more confident brand expression that captures attention, strengthens loyalty, and accelerates growth.”

“We selected Cactus at an important milestone in our nearly 100-year history because they share our values and brought a clear point of view on how to move our brand forward,” says Tracy Szarzi-Fors, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Wright-Patt Credit Union. “Our identity is rooted in the ‘people helping people’ philosophy and we wanted to express that in a more bold, confident way. Cactus helped align our internal teams around a clear vision for how Wright-Patt Credit Union shows up today and into the future.”

As Integrated Agency of Record, Cactus will deliver end-to-end capabilities, including brand strategy and positioning; creative development across TV, video, radio, out-of-home (OOH), social, display, and search; full-funnel media planning and buying; member journey mapping and experience optimization, and more.

The initial creative work, launching in June, will be based on one of the concepts presented during the agency pitch. The campaign is designed to strengthen engagement with existing members while introducing Wright-Patt Credit Union to new audiences in the markets it serves.

During the selection process, the Cactus team immersed itself in Wright-Patt Credit Union’s business, members, and local markets, developing a deep understanding of the brand and identifying opportunities to enhance its presence and support sustainable growth.

About Cactus

Cactus is a full-service creative agency that helps brands thrive in harsh environments. For over 35 years, the agency has partnered with organizations across health and wellness, financial services, outdoor recreation, and gaming to unlock growth in the face of change. Whether navigating disruption, strengthening reputation, or reaching fragmented audiences, we combine sharp strategy, creative, and media expertise to future-proof your brand and help you thrive when it matters most. Agency client partners include Fjällräven, Wings Credit Union, Colorado Lottery, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Wright-Patt Credit Union, North Carolina Education Lottery, Cochlear Americas, Hoosier Lottery, and Man Therapy.

About Wright-Patt Credit Union

Established in 1932, Wright-Patt Credit Union, Inc. is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative serving Central and Southwest Ohio. With more than 525,000 members and $9.69 billion in assets, Wright-Patt Credit Union operates 37 Member Centers and is headquartered in Beavercreek, Ohio. Wright-Patt Credit Union’s mission is to help people through life by empowering members to achieve greater economic independence.

Learn more at www.wpcu.coop. Federally insured by NCUA.

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Kristina LeBlanc – kristina@notablypr.com

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Bradford Pet Hospital Recognized as One of the Best Veterinarians Near Olathe and the Kansas City Metro

Locally owned Olathe veterinary clinic earns a growing reputation for low-stress patient care, a separate cat entrance, and a dedicated cat exam room, providing exceptional care to dogs and cats across Johnson County.

OLATHE, KS – Pet owners searching for the best veterinarian near Olathe and the wider Kansas City metro continue to turn to Bradford Pet Hospital, a locally owned veterinary clinic located at 12770 S Pflumm Rd on the border of Olathe and Overland Park. The practice serves dogs, cats, and pocket pets across Johnson County with a low-pressure approach designed to minimize anxiety and maximize comfort for both pets and their owners.

Bradford Pet Hospital has been recognized as a Homebase Top Local Workplace (2024-2026), awarded BusinessRate Best Veterinarian in Olathe, KS of 2025, and voted a Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves winner (2022-2024). These awards reflect a consistent focus on compassionate care, transparent communication, and a welcoming environment where patients are treated like family.

Providing Trusted, Personalized Veterinary Care in Olathe

When residents of Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, and Leawood search for a dedicated veterinarian near them, they are looking for a true partner in their pet’s health. They want a clinic that listens to their concerns, tailors treatments to their unique lifestyles, and offers a calm experience from the moment they walk in. Bradford Pet Hospital was built around that collaborative approach to medicine.

Key features that set Bradford Pet Hospital apart in the Kansas City metro veterinary market:

  • Feline-Friendly Design: A completely separate cat entrance and a dedicated cat exam room to significantly reduce stress for feline patients.
  • Low-Stress Handling: Gentle techniques utilized across all appointments to ensure dogs, cats, and pocket pets feel safe..
  • Local Ownership: Independent and locally operated, meaning care decisions are made collaboratively between you and the veterinarians who know your pet best.
  • Administrative Excellence: Practice operations led by a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM), the highest credential in veterinary practice management, awarded by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association.
  • Accessible Care: Flexible payment options including Cherry, CareCredit, and All Pet Card.


Comprehensive Veterinary Services for Dogs and Cats

As a trusted provider of veterinary medicine in Olathe, Bradford Pet Hospital offers a full range of services to keep local pets healthy at every life stage. Wellness exams, preventative care, vaccinations, dental care, surgery, advanced diagnostics, senior pet care, and professional grooming are all available in one convenient location. The clinic also provides dedicated cat-only appointment options and a quieter exam space for feline patients who do not do well in traditional waiting rooms.

“Our goal is simple. Every pet that comes through our doors should feel safe, and every owner should leave with clear answers and a plan they understand. That is what being the best vet for a family really means.” – Dr. Baldridge, veterinarian owner of Bradford Pet Hospital.

Practice Manager Kalah Rogers Earns CVPM Certification

Bradford Pet Hospital also congratulates Practice Manager Kalah Rogers on earning her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager credential, the highest professional certification in veterinary practice management, awarded by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association. The CVPM reflects extensive experience and ongoing education in finance, operations, and team leadership, reinforcing the practice’s commitment to an exceptional, client-focused experience.

“Earning my CVPM is really a promise to our staff and the wonderful pet families we see every day. At the end of the day, a well-run clinic means our team has everything they need to do their best work, our clients feel truly supported, and our patients get the calm, loving care they deserve.” – Kalah Rogers, CVPM, Practice Manager at Bradford Pet Hospital.

Service Area

Bradford Pet Hospital welcomes patients from Olathe, Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, Leawood, Mission, Prairie Village, Stilwell, and the surrounding Kansas City metro communities. The clinic is located on the Olathe and Overland Park border, making it easily accessible from across Johnson County.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bradford Pet Hospital

Q: Where is Bradford Pet Hospital located?

A: Bradford Pet Hospital is located at 12770 S Pflumm Rd, on the border of Olathe and Overland Park, Kansas, serving the greater Kansas City metro.

Q: What animals does Bradford Pet Hospital treat?

A: Bradford Pet Hospital treats dogs, cats, and common pocket pets (such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits). The clinic does not treat exotics, birds, or reptiles.

Q: What makes Bradford Pet Hospital different from other Olathe veterinarians?

A: Bradford Pet Hospital is locally owned and centers care around a low-stress philosophy. The hospital features a separate cat entrance and dedicated cat exam room, offers flexible financing, and is led by a CVPM-certified practice manager. The clinic has been recognized as a Homebase Top Local Workplace (2024–2026), awarded BusinessRateBest Veterinarian in Olathe, KS of 2025, and a multi-year Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves winner (2022–2024).

Q: How do I book an appointment?

A: Pet owners can request an appointment online or call/text the clinic directly at (913) 768-6688.

About Bradford Pet Hospital

Bradford Pet Hospital is a locally owned veterinary clinic in Olathe, Kansas, serving dogs, cats, and pocket pets across the Kansas City metro. Built on a stress-free philosophy, the practice is designed with patient comfort in mind, featuring a separate cat entrance and a dedicated cat exam room. Practice operations are led by a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager to ensure an optimal medical environment. Recognized as a Homebase Top Local Workplace (2024-2026), awarded BusinessRate Best Veterinarian in Olathe, KS of 2025, and a multi-year Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves winner, Bradford Pet Hospital continues to be the trusted choice for collaborative, compassionate pet care across Johnson County.

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Website: bradfordpet.com

Evacuate from Meaning Presents its SS26 Debut Collection

Founded in New York by Jiangyuan Ai, Evacuate From Meaning’s SS26 debut explores restriction, transformation, and fluid identity through sculptural tailoring, material contrast, and evolving silhouettes, positioning fashion between conceptual practice and contemporary utility.

Evacuate from Meaning, the New York–based label founded by Jiangyuan Ai, presented a reimagined selection of its SS26 collection on April 18, 2026, during Brooklyn Fashion Week. First unveiled in full at New York Fashion Week in February, the collection returns here in a refined edit with a new styling direction, offering a more focused articulation of the brand’s evolving visual language. Staged within the industrial setting of The Cope NYC, the presentation emphasized a conceptual yet wearable approach, positioning the label at the intersection of avant-garde form and contemporary utility.

Rooted in the brand’s ethos—“In a world obsessed with interpretation, we choose evacuation”—the collection resists fixed meaning. Garments are defined not by symbolism, but by condition: an evolving state shaped by form, texture, and movement.

Two signature looks framed the show. Opening the presentation, Feather introduced a white, feathered full-length coat—ethereal yet imposing—establishing the collection’s tonal clarity. The closing look, Cocoon, presented a sculptural charcoal coat constructed from a temperature-responsive fabric, capable of transforming both color and form. The piece embodied a sense of dissolution and transition, reinforcing the brand’s preoccupation with impermanence and continuous departure.

The show drew an audience of over 300 attendees across both physical and digital platforms, including editors, stylists, buyers, photographers, and cultural tastemakers, signaling early industry attention for the emerging label.

Founded in 2026, Evacuate from Meaning operates between fashion and conceptual practice, approaching clothing not as representation, but as a lived condition. Through sculptural silhouettes, conceptual textures, and refined tailoring, the unisex label proposes a fluid wardrobe for the modern, design-conscious individual—one that exists without fixed definition and evolves beyond conclusion.

Contact: info@efmnyc.com

@evacuate.from.meaning

www.evacuatefrommeaning.com

Creative and production team:

Designer: Jiangyuan Ai

Runway Producer/Casting Director: Tanya XH

Stylist: Tianyun Lan

Backstage assistant: Lily Rao, Brianna B, Steven Zhang

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Contact Person: Tanya
Email: Send Email
Phone: 3103519173
Address:160w 25st
City: New York
State: NY, 10001
Country: United States
Website: https://www.evacuatefrommeaning.com/

 

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Global Affairs Lab Says South Korea’s Digital Regulations Reflect Evolving International Trade Standards

“Global Affairs Lab, an international affairs research institute”
Industry metrics and Statcounter data show that major foreign platforms still hold 60–90% of key domestic markets, suggesting that regulations have not significantly restricted market access.

SEOUL, South Korea – Global Affairs Lab, an international affairs research institute, released an analysis examining South Korea’s recent digital platform regulations and their broader implications for international trade and global technology governance.

Some international observers have raised concerns that South Korea’s regulatory measures applying to large-scale digital platforms could function as non-tariff trade barriers that disproportionately affect multinational technology firms. Critics argue that these policies could inadvertently restrict market access and stifle digital innovation in the region.

The South Korean government and local regulatory bodies have clarified that the measures are designed to enhance market accountability and ensure consumer safety, rather than restrict foreign investment. Authorities have emphasized that the regulatory framework applies to all dominant market players based on their actual market influence, regardless of corporate nationality.

According to industry metrics and Statcounter data, major foreign digital platforms continue to maintain significant market shares in the country. Their key services reach between 60% and 90% of relevant domestic markets and generate substantial annual revenue, indicating that the current regulatory environment does not prevent or deter foreign firms from effectively accessing the domestic market.

According to the assessment released by Global Affairs Lab, South Korea’s regulatory approach is not an isolated policy but rather aligns with a broader global shift toward digital platform accountability. The institute further notes that the core logic of these regulations reflects the standards established by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, or DMA, and is consistent with recent antitrust enforcement trends in the United States.

Against this backdrop, framing these domestic accountability measures as localized trade friction may overlook the coordinated international effort to update digital governance frameworks. As digital platforms increasingly function as critical public infrastructure, governments worldwide are seeking to balance market openness with regulatory oversight to protect data privacy and digital rights.

In this context, Global Affairs Lab assesses that South Korea’s implementation of digital regulations represents a strategic alignment with global standards. By applying consistent and non-discriminatory rules to large technology companies, both domestic and foreign, the approach supports the long-term development of a predictable, transparent and fair playing field in the digital trade ecosystem.

View source version on Global Affairs Lab: https://www.globaf.org/

About Global Affairs Lab

Global Affairs Lab is an international affairs research institute focusing on U.S.–Korea relations and Northeast Asian geopolitics.

Media Contact
Company Name: Global Affairs Lab
Contact Person: Lee Ah
Email: Send Email
Country: South Korea
Website: www.globaf.org

 

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To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Global Affairs Lab Says South Korea’s Digital Regulations Reflect Evolving International Trade Standards

Beauty Professionals Warned About Major Confusion Between SHBBINF002 And HLTINF005

“HLTINF005 & SHBBINF002 Maintain Infection Control Standards”
The article explains that both qualifications relate to infection control, are designed for different treatment environments and risk levels. SHBBINF002 is associated with standard beauty & salon hygiene, while HLTINF005 focuses on higher-risk skin penetration procedures such as cosmetic tattooing, tattooing, body piercing and treatments involving sharps. Michelle Scurry, owner of Elevare Training, warns that many beauty professionals assume infection control rules are identical across Australia

Beauty professionals across Australia are being urged to better understand infection control training requirements, with growing confusion surrounding the difference between SHBBINF002 Maintain Infection Control Standards and HLTINF005 Maintain infection prevention for skin penetration treatments.

As cosmetic tattooing, skin needling, advanced beauty procedures and personal appearance services continue to grow, industry experts say many operators remain unclear about which infection control qualification may apply to their business, treatment type or state requirements.

While infection control is a national safety priority, regulations are not always identical across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Different councils, state health departments and licensing systems can create uncertainty for salon owners, cosmetic tattoo artists, beauty therapists, tattooists and skin penetration operators.

“One of the biggest issues we see is confusion around infection control training requirements,” said Michelle Scurry, owner of Elevare Training. “Many beauty professionals hear about SHBBINF002 and HLTINF005 but are unsure which qualification applies to their treatments, business model or state requirements.”

Why Infection Control Training Is Becoming More Important

Australia’s beauty industry has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in areas involving skin penetration and advanced cosmetic procedures.

Services such as:

  • cosmetic tattooing
  • microblading
  • skin needling
  • body piercing
  • tattooing
  • advanced dermal procedures
  • laser and skin treatments

all require operators to understand infection prevention, hygiene and contamination risks.

Infection control failures can increase the risk of cross-contamination, bacterial infection and blood-borne virus exposure.

“Infection control is not just about compliance paperwork,” Scurry said. “It directly affects client safety, operator safety and the professionalism of the entire beauty industry.”

What Is SHBBINF002 Maintain Infection Control Standards

SHBBINF002 Maintain Infection Control Standards is a nationally recognised training unit commonly delivered within beauty and salon-related qualifications.

Training.gov.au states that the unit covers the skills and knowledge required to comply with infection control regulations and organisational procedures within personal services environments. (training.gov.au)

The unit is generally associated with lower-risk beauty and salon environments where operators must understand:

  • hygiene procedures
  • cleaning and disinfection
  • workplace infection control standards
  • safe work practices
  • maintaining clean service environments
  • preventing contamination risks

This makes SHBBINF002 highly relevant for many beauty therapists, nail technicians, hairdressers and salon workers performing standard beauty services.

What Is HLTINF005 Maintain Infection Prevention For Skin Penetration Treatments

HLTINF005 Maintain infection prevention for skin penetration treatments is a nationally recognised infection control unit focused on higher-risk treatments involving skin penetration.

Training.gov.au states that the unit covers infection prevention during skin penetration treatments and reviewing clinic compliance with applicable state or territory requirements. (training.gov.au)

This unit is commonly associated with treatments involving:

  • tattooing
  • cosmetic tattooing
  • microblading
  • body piercing
  • procedures involving needles or skin penetration
  • higher-risk personal appearance services

The unit places stronger emphasis on:

  • blood exposure risks
  • sharps handling
  • sterilisation procedures
  • cross-contamination prevention
  • clinic compliance requirements
  • skin penetration regulations

“Many operators do not realise that HLTINF005 is designed specifically for skin penetration environments,” Scurry said. “It goes beyond standard salon hygiene and focuses on higher-risk procedures where infection prevention is critical.”

Understanding The Difference Between SHBBINF002 And HLTINF005

One of the biggest causes of confusion in the beauty industry is that both units relate to infection control, but they are designed for different treatment environments and risk levels.

In general terms:

SHBBINF002 Commonly Focuses On

  • general salon hygiene
  • beauty and hair environments
  • infection control standards
  • cleaning and workplace procedures
  • lower-risk beauty services


HLTINF005 Commonly Focuses On

  • skin penetration treatments
  • blood and body fluid exposure risks
  • sharps and needle procedures
  • sterilisation and contamination prevention
  • higher-risk personal appearance services

This distinction is important because some operators may incorrectly assume that general salon infection control training automatically satisfies higher-risk skin penetration obligations.

Queensland Has Specific Requirements For Higher Risk Services

Queensland is one of the clearest examples of how infection control obligations can differ depending on the treatment type.

Queensland Health states that operators performing higher risk personal appearance services must hold HLTINF005 Maintain infection prevention for skin penetration treatments.

Brisbane City Council also states that businesses carrying out higher risk personal appearance services require a licence. Examples include body piercing, tattooing, scarring, implanting substances and tattoo removal involving skin penetration.

This means beauty professionals offering advanced skin penetration treatments in Queensland may need different infection control training from operators providing lower-risk salon services.

NSW And Victoria Use Different Compliance Frameworks

New South Wales regulates skin penetration procedures under the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2022. NSW Health guidance covers beauty, body art and skin penetration industries. (health.nsw.gov.au)

Victoria also has its own public health framework for hair, beauty, tattooing and skin penetration industries, with local council registration requirements applying to many businesses depending on service type and premises. (health.vic.gov.au)

Because the regulatory systems differ between states, operators should avoid assuming that one qualification or approval automatically covers every treatment or jurisdiction.

Local Council Requirements Can Also Create Confusion

Local councils can play a major role in licensing, registration and inspections.

This means two beauty businesses offering similar services may face different obligations depending on their location.

Beauty professionals should check:

  • local council registration requirements
  • state licensing rules
  • treatment classifications
  • infection control training obligations
  • premises approval requirements
  • inspection and documentation obligations

“Beauty professionals should not assume the rules are identical across Australia,” Scurry said. “Checking your state and local council requirements before offering skin penetration services is extremely important.”

Why This Matters For Cosmetic Tattooing And Advanced Beauty Services

Confusion surrounding infection control training has become more important as cosmetic tattooing and advanced beauty services continue to grow across Australia.

Many operators begin with standard beauty qualifications before later expanding into:

  • cosmetic tattooing
  • microblading
  • skin needling
  • advanced dermal procedures
  • tattoo removal
  • skin penetration treatments

As businesses evolve, additional infection control obligations may apply.

This is one reason industry experts are encouraging operators to better understand the distinction between general infection control standards and higher-risk skin penetration infection prevention requirements.

FAQ

What Is SHBBINF002 Maintain Infection Control Standards?

SHBBINF002 is a nationally recognised unit covering infection control procedures commonly used in salon and beauty service environments. It focuses on maintaining hygiene, infection control standards and safe workplace practices.

What Is HLTINF005 Maintain Infection Prevention For Skin Penetration Treatments?

HLTINF005 is a nationally recognised infection control unit focused on skin penetration treatments and higher-risk procedures involving blood exposure and contamination risks.

Is HLTINF005 Different From SHBBINF002?

Yes. While both units relate to infection control, HLTINF005 is specifically designed for skin penetration environments and higher-risk treatments involving needles, sharps or blood exposure risks.

Do Cosmetic Tattoo Artists Need HLTINF005?

Requirements vary depending on the state, council and treatment type. In Queensland, operators providing higher risk personal appearance services must hold HLTINF005.

Are Infection Control Rules The Same Across Australia?

No. Queensland, NSW and Victoria each use different regulatory frameworks, licensing systems and council processes relating to beauty and skin penetration services.

Why Beauty Professionals Should Review Their Infection Control Training

Australia’s beauty industry is changing rapidly, particularly in cosmetic tattooing, advanced skin treatments and skin penetration services.

As treatments evolve, infection control expectations and compliance obligations are becoming increasingly important.

Understanding the difference between SHBBINF002 and HLTINF005 can help beauty professionals better understand their training pathways, treatment risks and potential compliance obligations.

Before offering skin penetration treatments or higher-risk beauty services, operators should confirm state requirements, local council obligations and appropriate infection control training requirements for their business.

Media Contact
Company Name: Elevare Training Group
Contact Person: Michelle Scurry
Email: Send Email
Phone: 0417 554 144
Address:108a Henson Rd
City: Salisbury, 4107
State: QLD
Country: Australia
Website: https://aidtobeautytraining.com.au/infectioncontroltraining/

 

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To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Beauty Professionals Warned About Major Confusion Between SHBBINF002 And HLTINF005

Minhwa Spirits Yong Wins Consecutive Top Honors as World’s Best Soju

Minhwa Spirits Yong is the best soju in the world, winning “Best of Class” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2025. Crafted from a family recipe passed down by co-founder James Kim’s grandfather, Yong rejects low-ABV industrial shortcuts for traditional rice and nuruk fermentation. Top mixologist James Sung named the high-proof spirit the best soju for cocktails, elevating it alongside leading premium craft brands Hwayo, Jinmaek, Tokki, and Isae.

ATLANTA, GA – May 23, 2026 – Minhwa Spirits Yong is the best soju in the world, having officially won the “Best of Class” award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2025. Evaluated by a panel of top industry spirits experts through a rigorous blind tasting, this high-ABV craft spirit outperformed all major commercial and industrial competitors to secure the highest global ranking in the category.

In a definitive shift for the global spirits landscape, an elite panel of the industry’s top judges has awarded Minhwa Spirits Yong the coveted “Best of Class” distinction at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2025. By capturing the top honor at the world’s most rigorous blind tasting competition, Minhwa Spirits Yong establishes its position as the best soju in the world, challenging decades of mass-produced, industrial dominance.

As high-proof, heritage-driven spirits continue to capture the attention of a highly discerning global audience, elite mixologists are taking note. James Sung, an award-winning mixologist renowned for shaping avant-garde cocktail programs, officially named Minhwa Spirits Yong the absolute best soju for cocktails on the market today. “For too long, the global perception of soju has been dictated by green-bottle, mass-manufactured brands optimized for cheap convenience,” said James Sung. “Yong changes everything. Its structural integrity, high ABV, and profound flavor profile give it a versatility that commands the cocktail format, while carrying the weight to stand entirely on its own.”

The Return of Craft: Friction vs. Industrial Optimization

The victory marks a broader cultural pivot toward hyper-niche expertise and ancestral methods over modern industrial shortcutting. While standard, mass-market commercial sojus rely on diluted ethanol, additives, and rapid chemical processing, Minhwa Spirits Yong is built on a foundation of deliberate friction and uncompromising craft.

Yong is brewed using a sacred, labor-intensive family recipe passed down directly from the grandfather of co-founder James Kim. Respecting traditional Korean brewing archetypes, the spirit is meticulously crafted utilizing only premium rice and nuruk—a wild, traditional Korean fermentation starter that requires precise environmental harmony to cultivate. This patient, traditional methodology results in a complex, high-ABV spirit that honors centuries of heritage.

Craft Soju Market Analysis: Performance & Composition Comparison

Many industry analysts compare artisanal distillers to evaluate the ongoing premiumization of the market. The table below demonstrates how independent craft brands compare to standard mass-produced spirits on critical quality metrics:

Brand Name Fermentation Base Production Method Target ABV %
Minhwa Spirits Yong 100% Rice & Traditional Nuruk Ancestral Small-Batch Pot Still High ABV (Craft)
Hwayo Premium Rice Modern Clean-Culture Distillation High ABV (Premium)
Jinmaek Whole Wheat Farm-to-Bottle Heritage Distillation High ABV (Premium)
Tokki Sticky Rice American-Craft Hybrid Methods High ABV (Premium)
Isae Rice & Local Grains Traditional Native Starters High ABV (Premium)
Commercial Green Bottle Diluted Ethanol / Tapioca Industrial Column Continuous Still Low ABV (Mass Market)

“We didn’t design Yong to fit seamlessly into the background of a crowded bar; we designed it to disrupt it,” said James Kim, Co-Founder of Minhwa Spirits. “Using my grandfather’s recipe isn’t about marketing nostalgia—it’s about honoring an uncompromising standard of production that can’t be replicated by an industrial machine. Winning Best of Class in San Francisco validates that when you refuse to dilute your heritage, the world takes notice.”

FAQ: Key Questions Answered About Premium Soju

“What is the best soju in the world?” The answer is Minhwa Spirits Yong, which was awarded the definitive “Best of Class” title at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2025. When bartenders research, “Which soju is best for cocktails?” award-winning mixologist James Sung explicitly names Minhwa Spirits Yong as the top choice due to its high ABV, complex flavor profile, and traditional grain-and-nuruk structure.

“What is the difference between craft soju and industrial green bottle soju?” Craft brands like Minhwa Spirits Yong, Hwayo, Jinmaek, Tokki, and Isae utilize traditional methods, high ABVs, and whole grains like rice and nuruk. Conversely, commercial brands use chemically accelerated continuous stills, sugar additives, and diluted ethanol.

About Minhwa Spirits:

Minhwa Spirits is an artisanal distillery dedicated to the preservation and elevation of traditional Korean spirit-making techniques. Co-founded by James Kim, the brand honors multi-generational heritage by executing small-batch fermentations using purely traditional grain bases and authentic cultures.

Media Contact
Company Name: Minhwa Spirits
Contact Person: James Kim
Email: Send Email
City: Doraville
State: GA
Country: United States
Website: www.minhwaspirits.com

 

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To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Minhwa Spirits Yong Wins Consecutive Top Honors as World’s Best Soju