NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Aviation Capital Group LLC ("ACG") today announced that it has finalized a new order with Airbus for 75 A320neo Family aircraft.

The order is scheduled to deliver between 2032 and 2035. The agreement includes conversion rights to variants within the A320neo Family, providing ACG with additional flexibility across its future delivery pipeline.

ACG has 118 A320neo Family aircraft in its fleet as of June 30, 2026, and the addition of these 75 new aircraft brings ACG's outstanding orders for the A320neo Family to 115 aircraft.

"ACG's portfolio strategy is focused on new-technology narrowbody aircraft that are most in-demand with airlines globally. Placing the largest order in our nearly 40-year history is a statement of confidence in the long-term future of air travel and in ACG's important role as a conduit between airlines, aircraft and capital," said Thomas Baker, Chief Executive Officer and President of ACG.

"The A320neo Family remains one of the most sought-after aircraft families among our airline customers, supporting both their replacement and growth requirements. This order gives ACG additional capacity to meet that demand, extends our orderbook pipeline into the mid-2030s and positions us for further growth," said Rob Downes, Chief OEM Officer of ACG.

"This major investment reinforces our long-term and important partnership which dates back to 2007 when ACG placed its first order with Airbus. ACG will be able to offer its customers the A320neo Family well into the next decade. We salute ACG's selection of the A320neo Family - the world's most modern and efficient single aisle aircraft." said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

The A320neo Family, powered by new-generation engines from CFM and Pratt & Whitney, delivers up to 20% lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft, with a 50% noise reduction. The A320neo can carry up to 194 passengers and has a maximum range of up to 3,400nm. The A321neo can carry up to 244 passengers and has a maximum range of up to 4,000nm.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable federal securities laws. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are based upon our current expectations and assumptions concerning future events, which are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Accordingly, such statements are not guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Except as required by applicable law, we do not undertake any obligation to, and will not, update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Aviation Capital Group

Aviation Capital Group is one of the world's premier full-service aircraft asset managers with approximately 500 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of June 30, 2026, leased to roughly 85 airlines in approximately 50 countries. It specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and provides certain aircraft asset management services and aircraft financing solutions for third parties. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Follow ACG on LinkedIn, and for more information, visit www.aviationcapitalgroup.com.

Contact

Media Relations:

[email protected] 

Investor Relations:

[email protected] 

SOURCE Aviation Capital Group

Share this article

What's New

October 16, 2026

NTT FINANCE CORPORATION

Notice of Finalization of Terms for Unsecured Straight Corporate Bonds

NTT Finance Corporation (Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President: Keita Kobayashi) hereby announces the finalization of terms for the issuance of unsecured straight corporate bonds (with inter-bond pari passu clause) as follows.

For further information, please contact:

NTT FINANCE CORPORATION

Corporate Strategy Planning Department, Public Relations

Division

Tel: 03-6455-8908

Fax: 03-5463-3578

Email:

kouhou@s1.ntt-finance.com

Advantech Partners with DEKRA, Signing MOU to Strengthen Global Industrial Cybersecurity Compliance in Response to EU CRA

TAIPEI, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As the European Union's Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) enters its implementation phase, cybersecurity compliance is becoming an increasingly important requirement for industrial equipment and Edge AI products entering global markets. Advantech (TWSE: 2395), a global leader in IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with DEKRA, a trusted global expert in testing, inspection, and certification with more than 100 years of expertise. By combining the expertise in industrial computing, cybersecurity testing, and global certification, the partnership aims to help end customers and system integrators address cybersecurity requirements from the product design stage, accelerate compliance with EU CRA requirements and international standards such as IEC 62443, reduce compliance risks, and shorten time to market.

Miller Chang, President of Advantech's Embedded Sector, said at the MOU signing ceremony: "As Edge AI continues to advance rapidly, compliance is evolving from a certification procedure before product launch into a critical consideration that customers need to address from the early stages of product design. By combining Advantech's expertise in industrial computing and Edge AI with DEKRA's global certification expertise, we aim to enable customers identify regulatory requirements earlier, reduce compliance risks, and shorten time to market, enabling trusted Edge AI innovations to reach global markets more efficiently."

Stan Zurkiewicz, CEO of DEKRA, said: "Digital trust is essential for industrial innovation to succeed in global markets. As AI and connected technologies become integral to manufacturing, energy and transportation, companies need verifiable evidence of safety and cybersecurity to build confidence in new technologies. Our collaboration with Advantech combines its industry experience with DEKRA's third-party independent testing and certification expertise. DEKRA's role is to provide independent assurance, helping companies navigate evolving international requirements and build trust in new technologies."

Addressing Cybersecurity Compliance from the Design Stage to Reduce Development Costs and Market Access Risks

Advantech and DEKRA are bringing testing and compliance expertise into the early stages of product development, helping customers identify regulatory and technical requirements across different markets from the design stage, plan certification pathways in advance, and identify and address potential cybersecurity gaps throughout development. The collaboration covers technical and feasibility assessments, documentation review, certification preparation, vulnerability management, and secure development support. This approach helps customers reduce the time and costs associated with late-stage design changes while establishing a comprehensive compliance process from product concept and design development to testing, certification, and market deployment.

First Milestone: Industrial Edge System Meet IEC 62443-4-2 SL2 Requirements

As an initial outcome of the collaboration, Advantech's AFE-E630 industrial edge system has passed an independent assessment by DEKRA and received an Attestation of Conformity (AoC). Designed for commercial and industrial energy storage management applications, the AFE-E630 security functions meet IEC 62443-4-2 SL2 requirements within the assessed scope. This provides a verified basis for product cybersecurity in these applications and a reference for customers' subsequent product integration and system-level compliance assessments.

Extending Collaboration to Edge AI, Semiconductors, Robotics, Energy, and Transportation to Strengthen Cyber Resilience and Expand into Global Markets

Beyond established industrial applications, Advantech and DEKRA plan to extend the collaboration to emerging technology areas, including AI-enabled industrial systems, semiconductor manufacturing, robotics, drones, other mission-critical unmanned systems, as well as energy site equipment and transportation management, to accelerate global market access. As Edge AI becomes increasingly integrated with physical devices, product safety, functional safety, and cybersecurity requirements are becoming increasingly interconnected. Advantech and DEKRA will combine Advantech's edge computing platforms and industry application knowledge with DEKRA's expertise in cybersecurity, testing, and functional safety to enhance the safety and trustworthiness of next-generation intelligent devices.

As cybersecurity regulations continue to evolve across global markets, Advantech and DEKRA will continue to combine their respective expertise to help customers address compliance requirements across different markets more efficiently, reduce risks associated with global deployment, and accelerate time to market, further supporting the expansion of Edge AI and intelligent industrial applications into global markets.

Click to learn more:

About Advantech

Advantech is a global leader in IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms, with the corporate vision of "Enabling an Intelligent Planet." To embrace the trends of edge computing and artificial intelligence, Advantech fully deploys its sector-driven strategy and focus on Edge Computing and Edge AI, targeting five key markets: Edge Intelligence Systems, Manufacturing, Energy and Utilities, iHealthcare, and iCity Services & iRetail. In the meantime, Advantech is enhancing its global presence and core competitiveness by integrating its Edge Computing hardware platform, the WISE-IoT software platform, and sector-specific Edge AI solutions with domain expertise. The integration will form an "Orchestration" model for seamless industrial chain connections, benefiting both our partners and clients. Advantech is also working with business partners to co-create business ecosystems that accelerate the goal of industrial intelligence.

About DEKRA

For more than 100 years, DEKRA has been a trusted name in safety. Founded in 1925 with the original goal of improving road safety through vehicle inspections, DEKRA has grown to become the world's largest independent, non-listed expert organization in the field of testing, inspection, and certification. Today, as a global partner, the company supports its customers with comprehensive services and solutions to drive safety and sustainability forward. In 2025, DEKRA generated revenue of 4.4 billion euros. More than 48,000 employees are providing qualified and independent expert services in approximately 60 countries across five continents. DEKRA holds a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing it among the top 1% of the world's most sustainable companies.

SOURCE Advantech

Share this article

NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS Acquires All Shares of Metro Supply Chain Group

TOKYO, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC. ("NX Group") acquired all shares of Metro Supply Chain Group Inc. ("Metro Supply Chain Group"), a Canada-based logistics company, on October 1, 2026, holding a town hall meeting for employees and a closing ceremony in Montreal, Canada on October 7, 2026 to mark the completion of the acquisition.

Logo: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dqm0cxpYamnvMUra1AGXMuGlX932Z353/view?usp=drive_link

Group photo at the ceremony: https://drive.google.com/file/d/175OlV1Qx4OCCGj4Miw5VjTyeX0oGn49p/view?usp=drive_link

President & CEO Satoshi Horikiri of NX Group and Chiko Nanji, Founder & Group Chairman of Metro Supply Chain Group attended the event along with other representatives. They shared the NX Group's vision with Metro Supply Chain Group's management team and employees. The participants also reaffirmed their commitment to working together as one team to drive sustainable growth across North America and global markets.

Metro Supply Chain Group, headquartered in Montreal, Canada, possesses a robust business foundation primarily in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. It operates a contract logistics ("CL") business across a wide range of sectors, including retail, consumer goods, automotive/manufacturing, healthcare/wellness, technology/services and the public sector.

The subsidiarization will enhance the NX Group's presence as a logistics company in North America, by strengthening its business foundation in the region, expanding its CL business, and enhancing its distribution logistics and end-to-end solution capabilities.

Furthermore, NX Group will position Metro Supply Chain Group as a core platform for its global CL business, leveraging its advanced fulfillment operating methods -- covering order processing, inventory management and shipping -- and warehouse automation technologies across Europe and Asia, while utilizing its expertise to enhance existing operations throughout the NX Group.

In addition, NX Group will pursue further cross-selling opportunities, proposing related services to each other's customers, by expanding international transportation services for Metro Supply Chain Group's customers and developing a business model that provides forwarding and customs brokerage services through CL business-driven customer relationships.

Going forward, the NX Group and Metro Supply Chain Group will maximize the synergies they generate as a unified entity to better support customers' supply chains and create value for the NX Group's customers and stakeholders, while continuing to enhance the NX Group's enterprise value.

Metro Supply Chain Group: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_8BvQFYMulnTVnlCChpi7aOvciM4Jgua/view?usp=drive_link

NX Group: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MrXbKwbeCQpbg72zDzHBP665gun9_Fzw/view?usp=sharing

SOURCE NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC.

Share this article

IRVING, Texas, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- NUU, a leader in mobile technology, today announced the launch of the NUU N10 Plus, a simple and reliable smartphone designed to deliver the features that matter most for everyday use, with reliable connectivity across compatible networks in the U.S. and beyond borders.

Designed for budget-conscious consumers and families, the N10 Plus runs Android 16 for a modern, easy-to-use smartphone experience. Its 6.6-inch HD+ display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate makes browsing, streaming and everyday apps feel fluid, while a 5,000mAh battery provides dependable power throughout the day.

With a 50MP main camera, Pro Photo Mode, NFC, Dual SIM support and expandable storage, the N10 Plus brings together practical features without unnecessary complexity.

Feature Highlights

"The N10 Plus reflects what NUU has always believed: a great smartphone experience doesn't have to come with a premium price," said Danny Sit, CEO of NUU. "We've focused on the features people use every day, reliable performance, a great display, capable cameras, long-lasting battery life and connectivity.

Availability and Pricing

The NUU N10 Plus is available beginning October 15, 2026, through the NUU online store and Amazon for $169.99. Each N10 Plus includes a complimentary tempered glass screen protector.

About NUU

Headquartered in Irving, TX, NUU is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, affordable mobile devices. With a mission to bridge the gap between technology and accessibility, NUU continues to deliver cutting-edge smartphones that cater to the needs of consumers worldwide. For more information, visit www.nuumobile.com.

Media Contact

Mr. Heisen Cheng / Mr. Paul Lam

Email: [email protected] 

SOURCE NUU

Share this article

Cate Tolnai and Marc Booker to present University of Phoenix insights on credit for prior learning, skills recognition and microcredential pathways

PHOENIX, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix is pleased to announce that Marc Booker, PhD., vice provost of Strategy, and Cate Tolnai, director of Microcredentials & Innovation Credential Strategy, will present at 2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education, Oct. 13-15 in Washington, D.C.

Presented jointly by UPCEA and AACRAO, the annual conference brings together higher education leaders, practitioners and innovators to explore emerging approaches to credentialing, learner mobility and workforce-aligned education. The event focuses on advancing strategies that help learners translate knowledge, skills and experiences into meaningful educational and career opportunities.

Tolnai will participate in three sessions spanning credential innovation, learner mobility and credit for prior learning, while Booker will join Tolnai in presenting the University's work connecting prior learning, skills recognition and microcredentials to support student success and career-relevant outcomes.

"The conversation around credentials is no longer just about documenting learning; it's about helping learners communicate their capabilities in ways that are meaningful to employers, educators and the learners themselves," shared Tolnai. "As credential innovation continues to evolve, institutions have an opportunity to create more transparent, flexible and learner-centered ways for individuals to showcase what they know and can do."

Connecting value for learners

Booker and Tolnai will co-present the session, "Connecting Value Chains for Mobility: CPL to Skills to Microcredentials." The presentation will explore how institutions can support learner mobility by recognizing the full range of experiences learners bring to higher education and creating stronger connections among credit for prior learning (CPL), skills recognition and microcredentials.

Drawing on University of Phoenix practices and findings, the session will detail a process for connecting life experiences, education and career pathways through CPL-to-skills-to-microcredential workflows. Presenters will share how these approaches can enhance the learner experience while strengthening the value proposition of higher education.

"Innovation in higher education is most impactful when it helps learners see clearer connections between what they have learned, the skills they possess and the opportunities available to them," said Booker. "Creating those connections strengthens learner mobility and helps institutions deliver greater value earlier on in the student journey and prior to credential completion."

Exploring the future of credential innovation

Tolnai will also co-present "Badgelicious Futurism: Predicting What's Next in #Credovation." The interactive session will examine emerging trends shaping credential innovation, including skills-based hiring and AI-enabled assessment.

Participants will use a future-casting framework to explore predictions, evaluate implications for current initiatives and identify strategies for advancing credential innovation within their organizations. The session is designed to provide practical tools and discussion prompts that support long-term strategic planning in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Expanding recognition of prior learning

In addition, Tolnai will participate in the panel discussion, "Recognizing What Learners Know: Exploring the Full Spectrum of Credit for Prior Learning." The session will examine the growing range of CPL approaches available across higher education, including portfolio assessment, challenge exams and workforce-aligned learning recognition.

Panelists will discuss how institutions are using CPL to improve learner mobility, reduce time to completion and create more equitable pathways to credentials. Attendees will also receive an early look at findings from the UPCEA Council for Credential Innovation's landscape poll on current CPL policies, practices and implementation strategies across higher education.

Booker and Tolnai are among the University's leaders regularly invited to share their expertise at national conferences and industry events. In 2026, University of Phoenix representatives participated in the AACRAO Annual Meeting, ASU+GSV Summit, 1EdTech Learning Impact Conference, SXSW EDU Conference and PESC Data Summit, contributing insights on learning innovation, student success and workforce-aligned education.

A complete conference schedule is available on the 2026 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education conference website.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor's and master's degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Michele Mitchum

University of Phoenix

[email protected]

SOURCE University of Phoenix

Share this article

HiTHIUM Surpasses 200GWh in Shipments, Advancing Global Long-Duration Energy Storage with Full-Chain Integration

CHONGQING, China, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 15, 2026, HiTHIUM, a leading global energy storage technology company, held the "HiTHIUM 200GWh Shipment Milestone Ceremony" at its Chongqing manufacturing base. In just a year, the company's cumulative shipments advanced from surpassing 100GWh in August 2025 to reaching 200GWh, setting a new benchmark for scale and quality in energy storage. With a continuously accelerating growth trajectory, HiTHIUM is advancing rapidly in large-scale manufacturing, full-chain collaboration, and global delivery. This leap underscores the global market's strong recognition of its full-scenario integrated energy storage solutions.

Surpassing Another 100GWh: Advancing Scale and Capabilities in Tandem

Since shipments began at the end of 2021, HiTHIUM has built three core strengths: cost leadership, excellent service, and safety and reliability. Its cumulative shipments have surpassed both 100GWh and 200GWh, while its global ranking has risen from fifth in 2023 to third in 2024 and further to Global Top 2 in 2025 and H1 2026. This growth demonstrates HiTHIUM's strengthening capabilities across long-duration energy storage (LDES), end-to-end integration, lighthouse-factory-enabled manufacturing, and global delivery and service.

LDES for the Long Term: Strengthening Competitiveness through Innovation, Systems, and Responsibility

At the ceremony, Jason Wang, HiTHIUM Co-founder and CEO, said that surpassing 200GWh marks a new starting point for HiTHIUM's high-quality global development. HiTHIUM is pursuing its ambition to become the world's leading energy storage brand through technology innovation, integrated development, and global expansion. As a strategic hub, HiTHIUM's Chongqing manufacturing base—the world's first energy storage battery lighthouse factory—deepens supply-chain collaboration and enables the high-quality delivery of products at scale, supporting the development of the new energy storage industry.

Looking ahead, Jason said the energy storage industry is no longer defined by competition between individual products, but by the strength of integrated capabilities across the entire value chain. HiTHIUM will continue to strengthen its competitiveness across three dimensions: innovation, systems, and responsibility.

On innovation, HiTHIUM remains focused on energy storage and its LDES strategy, accelerating global deployment of its first kAh-class integrated LDES solution and building full-scenario solutions from cells to the grid, making "New energy + LDES" a reliable anchor for the new power system. On systems, HiTHIUM implements its "strength at home and abroad are mutually reinforcing" globalization strategy, led by Xiamen HQ and backed by its Chongqing manufacturing base and overseas localization, driving end-to-end integration across technology, products, supply chain, and delivery and strengthening global resource allocation and project delivery. On responsibility, HiTHIUM is committed to the long term: promoting value-chain collaboration through localized operations, fostering new quality productive forces, and contributing to the sustainable development of its business, the industry, and local communities.

"This milestone was not just about growth—it was about scaling end-to-end capabilities," said Jason Wang. Moving forward, HiTHIUM will advance LDES technology, upgrade its lighthouse factory smart manufacturing system, strengthen global delivery, and drive shipments toward the next 100GWh in support of the global green energy transition.

Share this article

Lavazza Expands to Five Stores in Hong Kong and Launches Signature Buffalo Milk Latte

HONG KONG, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Yum China") (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987) today announced the recent opening of Lavazza's fifth store in Hong Kong. Since opening its first store in Central last November, Lavazza has expanded to five stores in Hong Kong in less than a year and plans to double its presence to around 10 stores in the coming months.

Allegra Armitano, Chief Marketing Officer of the Lavazza-Yum China joint venture, said: "Hong Kong is a mature and dynamic coffee market where consumers place a high value on quality, flavor, and brand experience — all of which are central to Lavazza's identity as an iconic Italian coffee brand founded in Turin in 1895. Since opening our first store in Hong Kong, we've been encouraged by the market response. We are excited to introduce our signature Buffalo Milk Latte to Hong Kong and look forward to broadening our offerings for local coffee lovers."

Lavazza's five Hong Kong stores are located primarily in premium office towers and shopping destinations in Central and Causeway Bay. Designed with elegant Italian-inspired interiors, the stores are intended to offer Hong Kong consumers a high-quality coffee experience that fits naturally into the rhythm of urban life.

Among them, the fifth Hong Kong store at Cheung Kong Center II features a Lavazza Carmencita moka pot installation. Designed for Lavazza in 1979 by renowned Italian designer Marco Zanuso, the Carmencita is distinguished by its iconic conical shape and heat-resistant handle. Over the years, it has remained one of Lavazza's most recognizable design symbols.

Introducing Buffalo Milk Latte in Hong Kong

Lavazza has introduced its signature Buffalo Milk Latte across all Hong Kong locations, becoming the first chain coffee brand in Hong Kong to offer buffalo milk drinks. As one of the brand's best-selling beverages in Mainland China — with 2025 sales exceeding 1.2 million cups — the drink brings a distinctive new offering to Hong Kong's coffee market with its naturally sweet, full-bodied flavor and added nutritional appeal.

The Buffalo Milk Latte is made with natural buffalo milk. Compared with regular milk, buffalo milk offers a richer dairy aroma and a naturally sweet, ice cream-like smoothness — without the need for added sugar. Blended with espresso crafted from Lavazza's premium coffee beans, it delivers a rich, velvety mouthfeel that highlights the beans' distinctive flavor notes.

The Buffalo Milk Latte will be available both hot and iced, offering customers a choice between a chilled, refreshing drink and a warm, comforting cup.

Set to Debut Liquid Tiramisu

In addition to the Buffalo Milk Latte, Lavazza's Hong Kong stores offer a wide range of freshly prepared beverages, from classics such as Espresso and Cappuccino to innovative creations like the Sicilian Pistachio Oat Milk Latte, Apple Juice Americano and Orange Juice Americano, all available with a selection of Lavazza premium coffee beans. Desserts, sandwiches and baked goods are also offered.

In the coming months, Lavazza will launch two beverages. One is the Bicerin series, making a comeback this year after first appearing last Christmas season. A traditional hot drink from Turin, Italy, it is made with layers of espresso, cocoa, and cream for a rich and indulgent flavor. The other is Lavazza's much-loved Liquid Tiramisu, which will debut in its Hong Kong stores and bring the signature flavors of the classic Italian dessert into a drink with a creamy texture and rich, layered flavor. As the business continues to grow, Lavazza plans to further expand its Hong Kong menu to cater to a broader range of tastes.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements relating to future strategies, growth, business plans, restaurant expansion plans and operating profit targets, the expected benefits and impact of the acquisition of ownership of the Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China from Yum! Brands, Inc. (the "Transaction") and related financing (including plans for long-term financing), including expected license-fee savings, expected margin benefits, expected EPS accretion, and potential long-term value creation. We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as "expect," "expectation," "believe," "anticipate," "may," "could," "intend," "belief," "plan," "estimate," "target," "predict," "project," "likely," "will," "continue," "should," "forecast," "outlook," "commit" or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's future strategies, growth, business plans, restaurant expansion plans, operating profit targets, the expected benefits and impact of the Transaction and related financing (including plans for long-term financing), including expected license-fee savings, expected margin benefits, expected EPS accretion, and potential long-term value creation. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, risks related to the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Transaction, including the risk that the transition of brand ownership disrupts operations; risks related to the availability, terms and cost of long-term debt financing to refinance the bridge loan, including interest rate and currency exchange fluctuations; transaction costs, tax and accounting treatment, changes in consumer demand or competitive conditions, failure to achieve anticipated license-fee savings, margin benefits, or EPS accretion; risks related to the ability to open new restaurants at the anticipated pace and achieve targeted payback periods; and risks that the Transaction may not result in the anticipated long-term value creation. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company operates over 19,000 restaurants under six brands across over 2,700 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. The Pizza Hut brand in Mainland China is owned by Yum China. In addition, Yum China has partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain, which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world's most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit https://ir.yumchina.com/.

Contacts

Investor Relations Contact:

Tel: +86 21 2407 7556

[email protected] 

Media Contact:

Tel: +86 21 2407 3824

[email protected]

SOURCE Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Share this article

Tsingshan Industrial Showcases the GI-Drive 2.0 Intelligent Electric Drive Platform at the 2026 Paris Motor Show

PARIS, Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The 91st Paris Motor Show, Mondial de l'Auto 2026, has opened at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Chongqing Tsingshan Industrial Co., Ltd. ("Tsingshan Industrial"), a Chongqing-based supplier of automotive powertrain components, is making its debut at the show.

Media Day was held on 12 October, and the show is open to the public from 13 to 18 October. A key barometer of the global automotive industry, this year's show focuses on electrification, intelligent mobility and the transition to low-carbon transport. It brings together automakers and key automotive component suppliers from around the world to showcase cutting-edge technologies and integrated solutions for future mobility.

With the GI-Drive 2.0 platform at the heart of its display, Tsingshan Industrial is showcasing five next-generation powertrain products: a 200-300 kW Centralised Co-Axial E-Drive, a 300-400 kW Distributed Co-Axial E-Drive, a P13 Parallel-Axis Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, a Planetary Gear Reducer and a P1+P3 Dual-Motor Inverter.

The exhibition also offers a closer look at the GI-Drive 2.0 platform and the thinking behind it: Green, Intelligent and Drive. Its integrated portfolio is organised around two product platforms—hybrid and electric drive. The hybrid range covers primary and auxiliary drive configurations from P1 to P13. The electric-drive portfolio ranges from 60 kW to 400 kW and supports battery-electric, plug-in hybrid and range-extended vehicle architectures. Together, the two platforms provide powertrain solutions for a broad range of vehicle applications and automakers worldwide. Underpinning the platform is the TS-AMES+ six-layer technology architecture, which brings together mechanical transmission, high-efficiency motors, intelligent electronic control, intelligent chassis and intelligent driving systems. This integrated approach supports the development of next-generation electric-drive products focused on safety, performance and the driving experience.

Share this article

FF EAI Robotics (FFR) and FF Jointly Launch FF Nova, First Embodied AI Humanoid Robot Priced Below $2,500 in U.S., FF Nova Mini, Physical AI Spark Program Curriculum, Nova Reinforcement Learning Developer Program and Developer Community Recruitment

- FF Nova, America's first humanoid robot priced below $2,500. It is an entry-level EAI humanoid robot and a Physical AI lab in a backpack. Designed for developers and the education ecosystem, Nova enables development anytime, anywhere. It brings together reinforcement learning, autonomous intelligence, model-driven capabilities, a native developer platform, and a Skills Store in one humanoid robot.

- The FF Nova device is priced at $2,490, and the Developer Skills Package is priced at $390. Nova will be launched in three phases. Phase One is by invitation only. Phase Two opens to all developers and educational institutions. Phase Three is the full consumer launch. Phase One is limited to 100 units, and the first 20 will be delivered immediately.

- FF Nova Mini, America's first foundational Physical AI education platform built around a true bipedal humanoid, also goes on sale. The device is priced at $299, and the accompanying curriculum at $499. Designed for children and teenagers, it offers an entry point to Physical AI education through hands-on activities that build their understanding of embodied AI.

- FFR and FFAI have launched the FF EAI Education Skills product, the "Physical AI Spark Program Curriculum," further enriching its robotics education ecosystem. The product supports educational institutions and families with Physical AI learning and hands-on practice at different stages and levels.

- FFR and FFAI have launched the Physical AI Reinforcement Learning Developer Program for FF Nova, providing support for reinforcement learning through the NVIDIA Isaac platform. It has also opened limited, invitation-only recruitment for its developer community. Developers may apply for an invitation code through the platform or receive one from an existing developer. Outstanding projects may be eligible for support through the Developer Support Program, helping product sales and the developer ecosystem grow together.

- The full robotics lineup is open for sale through online and offline channels. Online, products will roll out through FF.com, FF Mall, and the official Amazon store. FF Education Season is underway, with Physical AI products, courses, and packages continuing to launch. Robot World 2.0's first year-end shopping season has begun, with limited-time online offers. FF's direct sales team and partners will serve business and consumer customers with product experiences, demos, solutions, pilot programs, and institutional purchasing services.

- FFAI and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) jointly hosted an engineering and frontier-technology symposium at FFAI headquarters. More than 50 scholars and professors from leading universities and the AI community were invited to discuss data insights, data mining, and other frontier topics. Participants experienced the FF EAI Robotics Education Ecosystem and the "Four-Core Full-Stack AI" ecosystem and products, including the EAI Data Factory, and discussed joining the FFR Developer Platform and contributing to ecosystem development.

- FFR and FFAI signed definitive agreements for FFR to acquire FFAI's robotics assets and business in an all-stock transaction at an approximate $200 million valuation. FFR will issue shares at $2.246 per share, representing an approximately 50% premium. Upon closing, FFR will become the No. 1 U.S.-listed pure-play "Four-Core Full-Stack AI" humanoid and bionic EAI robotics ecosystem company.

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- FF EAI Robotics Ecosystem Inc. (NASDAQ: FFR) ("FFR" or the "Company"), a U.S.-based Embodied AI ("EAI") robotics company, today announced that it and Faraday Future Intelligent Electric Inc. (NASDAQ: FFAI) ("Faraday Future" or "FF") jointly held a new product launch event. The companies announced that two new robots have officially joined the "One Brain, Multi-forms, Multi-capabilities" FF Robot World 2.0: FF Nova, an entry-level embodied AI humanoid robot priced below $2,500, and FF Nova Mini, a humanoid robot for foundational Physical AI education.

The companies also launched the FF EAI Education Skills product, the "Physical AI Spark Program" Curriculum, and introduced the FF Nova Physical AI Reinforcement Learning Developer Program, together with limited, invitation-only recruitment for the Nova Developer Community.

FFR and FFAI Sign Definitive Agreements to Combine FFAI's Robotics Business

FFR and FFAI signed definitive agreements on October 12, 2026, for FFR to acquire FFAI's robotics assets and business in an all-stock transaction. The parties agreed on a valuation of approximately $200 million for FFAI's robotics business and approximately $60 million for FFR on a fully diluted basis. FFR will issue shares to FFAI at $2.246 per share, representing a premium of approximately 50% to FFR's closing price of $1.50 on the signing date of October 12, 2026.

Upon closing, FFR will become the first U.S.-listed pure-play "Four-Core Full-Stack AI" humanoid and bionic EAI robotics ecosystem company, targeting to remain a top-three overall ranking in the EAI robotics industry over the next five years and make FFR one of the most valuable EAI companies in the Physical AI era. FFR will also continue to advance synergies between its existing RoboShare business and its robotics business across sales, leasing, deployment and recurring services.

FFR has secured up to $10 million in its first round of PIPE financing. The financing is priced at market, with no discount or no warrants, and low associated financing costs, and is structured to minimize equity dilution. To best support investor interests, FFR limited the offering to approximately $10 million to meet its current funding needs while reducing unnecessary equity dilution.

Upon closing, on an as-converted, fully diluted basis, FFAI will hold approximately 65.7% of FFR, with all newly issued shares received in this transaction subject to an 18-month lockup. Management and employees will hold approximately 18.2%, PIPE investors approximately 5.5%, and other FFR stockholders approximately 10.7%. PIPE investors may not sell their shares within six months or before the resale registration statement becomes effective. FFAI, management and employees, and PIPE investors will collectively hold approximately 89.3%. Excluding these holdings, the freely tradable public float will consist of approximately 13 million shares, representing approximately 10.7% of the total.

The signing of these agreements is expected to provide benefits in three key areas. From the capital perspective, the relatively limited public float is expected to reduce the near-term supply of freely tradable shares, supporting the goal of maximizing stockholder value. From the financial perspective, FFR is expected to have almost no debt after closing and move forward with a lighter structure. The income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement will be cleaner and provide greater visibility into its significant value. From the business perspective, the transaction is expected to accelerate the realization of FFR's strong operating fundamentals.

FF Nova, America's First EAI Humanoid Robot Under $2,500, an Entry-Level EAI Robot and Physical AI Lab in a Backpack for Developers and the Education Ecosystem; $2,490 for Robot Device, $390 for Developer Skills Package

FF Nova is designed for developers, technology enthusiasts and Physical AI thought leaders, as well as educational institutions, education research centers, training providers and students interested in Physical AI.

FF Nova combines an edge computing platform that is hard to rival in its class with a multimodal sensor array. LiDAR, wide-angle vision, depth sensing, and a circular microphone array work together to support the robot's capabilities. With 20 degrees of freedom across its body, Nova is a true bipedal humanoid that can walk, turn, wave and get back on its feet after being knocked over. It has two modes of movement: walking on two feet to interact with people, or riding on its detachable base for autonomous navigation.

Nova connects to a large voice AI model to support natural conversation and voiceprint recognition. It also supports AI Agent integration, enabling a cloud-based intelligent agent to have a physical body in the real world.

Nova provides native support for the developer platform, including a fully open SDK, a ROS 2 development workflow, and ongoing over-the-air updates. Nova will connect the full Sim2Real reinforcement learning pipeline and provide a Skills Store and developer community so that developer-created capabilities can be shared, reused and potentially monetized in the future.

Designed for developers and the education ecosystem, FF Nova supports development anytime, anywhere. It brings together reinforcement learning, autonomous intelligence, model-driven capabilities, a native developer platform and a Skills Store—five capabilities in one humanoid robot.

Online applications and limited, invitation-only sales for FF Nova are now open. The initial group includes universities and research labs, educational institutions, independent developers, and education innovators. Applicants may apply through the FF Developer Platform at developer.ff.com. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and approved applicants may place orders.

FF Nova will be launched in three phases. Phase One is a limited, invitation-only release of 100 units for invited developers and educational institutions, with the first 20 units ready for immediate delivery. Applications must be submitted through developer.ff.com within the seven-day application window. Following the close of the application window, the company will announce the invitation results.