Edward Jones' inclusion on Fortune's 2026 List of Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance underscores its continued investment in associate growth, leadership development and a culture built on trust and connection.

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Edward Jones has been named to Great Place to Work's® 2026 list of Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance, ranking No. 7. At its core, this recognition is a direct reflection of the experiences of Edward Jones associates, who describe a workplace where trust, collaboration and respect create opportunities to grow and make a difference.

2026 Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance, published September 2026, research by Great Places to Work, data as of August 2025. Compensation provided for using, not obtaining, the rating.

"This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our associates and reflects the culture we've built together," said Suzan McDaniel, Chief Human Resources Officer at Edward Jones. "Across North America, our more than 55,000 associates contribute their unique talents in roles ranging from financial advisors and practice teams to technology and home office professionals. By investing in their development, well-being and success, we're strengthening our firm and expanding the positive impact we create for clients, colleagues and communities."

The ranking, compiled by Fortune and Great Place to Work®, is based entirely on employee feedback and reflects how associates experience the firm's workplace culture. Whether through meaningful work, career pathways or a long-term approach to well-being, Edward Jones focuses on ensuring associates feel empowered and equipped to make an impact and help clients achieve what matters most.

Investing in people and technology to build what's next

Through investments in development, collaboration and advisor support, Edward Jones is strengthening both the associate and client experience while positioning the firm for long-term growth:

- Developing Expertise That Drives Impact – Through continuous training, leadership development and opportunities to earn advanced professional designations, Edward Jones is helping associates deepen their expertise and build long-term careers. As of 2025, Edward Jones ranks No. 2 in the industry for Certified Financial Planner® professionals and No. 1 for Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional® designees, reflecting the firm's commitment to expanding financial planning capabilities across practice teams.

- Building Collaborative Teams for Long-Term Growth – Edward Jones continues to evolve its teaming models to better support advisors, practice teams and clients. These models create greater flexibility, mentorship and succession planning opportunities while enabling teams to better meet clients' evolving financial needs. The firm also fosters collaboration through Better Together Summits, which are designed to foster connection and collaboration for financial advisors and associates by sharing best practices and discussing leadership and community impact. The summits highlight firm culture, inclusion, and strategies to enhance client service, with over 10,000 associates participating in 2025.

- Investing in People to Build What's Next – Edward Jones is expanding its capabilities to help advisors deliver more comprehensive, personalized advice while remaining rooted in the relationship-based model that has defined the firm for more than a century. As one way to support the people behind every client relationship, Edward Jones is embedding AI into its proprietary systems to streamline administrative work, automate repetitive tasks and improve accuracy, freeing practice teams to devote more time and attention to the clients they serve. According to a May 2026 Edward Jones and Morning Consult survey, 82% of financial advisors are already using AI in their practice, and 68% say building and maintaining long-term client trust still requires a human touch. These investments equip advisors with technologies that enhance, rather than replace, the human relationships at the heart of financial advice. From AI-enabled tools and integrated client insights to financial planning platforms like MoneyGuide and expanded offerings such as Edward Jones Generations, the firm is giving advisors new ways to understand clients' evolving needs and deliver more personalized guidance. Together, these investments position Edward Jones to help more people achieve financial fulfillment while supporting sustainable growth for the future.

View the full 2026 list of Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance, and for more information about the available roles at Edward Jones, please visit https://careers.edwardjones.com/.

About Great Place To Work®

Great Place To Work® is a global leader in workplace culture, helping organizations create a consistently and overwhelmingly positive employee experience. The company offers recognition and tools to help leaders and organizations elevate their employer brands, capture and understand employee experiences, build cultures that retain talent, and unlock the potential of every employee.

About Fortune

Fortune is a global media organization dedicated to helping its readers, viewers, and attendees succeed big in business through unrivaled access and best-in-class storytelling.

About Edward Jones

Edward Jones is a leading financial services firm which operates throughout North America in the U.S. and Canada. The firm's more than 20,000 financial advisors ("FA") serve more than 9 million clients with a total of $2.5 trillion in client assets under care as of December 31, 2025. Edward Jones' purpose is to partner for positive impact to improve the lives of its clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society. Through the dedication of the firm's approximately 55,000 associates and our branch presence in 68% of U.S. counties and all Canadian provinces, Edward Jones is committed to helping improve the financial fulfillment for tens of millions of long-term investors across North America by providing comprehensive, personalized planning and professional advice.

Disclosure: From Fortune. ©2026 Fortune Media IP Limited All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune is a registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media IP Limited are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, Edward Jones.

FAQs

What recognition did Edward Jones receive from Fortune and Great Place to Work?

Edward Jones was named to Great Place to Work's® 2026 list of Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance, ranking No. 7.

How is the Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance list determined?

The list is based primarily on the Great Place to Work® Trust Index™ survey, which captures employee feedback on trust, leadership, career growth, wellbeing, and workplace culture.

Why was Edward Jones selected for this honor?

Edward Jones associates consistently highlight the firm's people‑first culture, strong development opportunities, inclusive environment, and shared sense of purpose.

How does Edward Jones support associate growth and development?

The firm invests in continuous training, leadership development, and professional designations, including supporting one of the industry's largest groups of Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional® (FPQP®) designees.

What initiatives support inclusion at Edward Jones?

Initiatives such as Better Together Summits and 12 Business Resource Groups foster collaboration, community and belonging across the firm.

Better Together Summits – Better Together Summits bring Edward Jones associates together across roles, regions and markets to share ideas, build skills and strengthen connections. Featuring speakers, panels and networking opportunities, these firmwide events are designed to foster collaboration and enhance the client experience.

Business Resource Groups – Edward Jones' Business Resource Groups are associate-led, firmwide communities that foster connection, inclusion and professional development across the organization. Open to all associates, these groups create opportunities to build relationships, share perspectives and strengthen cultural understanding while supporting the firm's ability to better serve clients.

What benefits and support does Edward Jones provide?

Edward Jones provides a comprehensive and evolving benefits experience, including enhanced healthcare options, lower-cost pharmacy benefits and expanded voluntary coverage such as pet insurance, identity protection and legal services. The firm also offers well-being resources and support during critical life moments, including assistance through its Disaster Relief Fund, which was activated in 2025 to support associates impacted by severe storms.

Disaster Relief Fund – Edward Jones' Disaster Relief Fund provides financial assistance and resources to associates affected by unexpected events, helping them navigate recovery during times of need. In 2025, the firm activated the fund to support colleagues impacted by severe storms, reinforcing its commitment to supporting associates both personally and professionally.

How is Edward Jones using technology to enhance the client and associate experience?

Edward Jones continues to advance its tools and platforms such as enhanced financial planning technology and integrated client insights to help associates deliver more comprehensive and effective guidance.

How does this recognition align with Edward Jones' purpose and clients?

The award reflects the firm's long-standing commitment to investing in its people, strengthening its culture and creating an environment where associates can grow, build meaningful careers and make a lasting impact for clients, colleagues and communities.

Today, volunteers from Foresters Financial, KABOOM!, PHP Agency and the Waxahachie community came together to build a new playground at the Waxahachie Family YMCA, transforming an empty site into a place where children can climb, move, imagine, connect and simply play.

And the kids themselves had a hand in creating it.

A few months earlier, local children were handed crayons and asked to draw the playground they wanted. One 12-year-old filled her page with slides, climbing bars and a spinner. Other children added their own ideas. KABOOM used those drawings to help develop the final design.

Today, those ideas are no longer a child's imagination on paper. They are a playground.

Finding a better balance

The opening comes as KABOOM!'s 2026 State of Our Kids Report: Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis draws attention to the changing way children spend their time.

According to the report, children now spend an average of up to 7.5 hours a day on screens outside of school. At the same time, unstructured play and physical activity are declining, while access to quality outdoor spaces remains unequal.

The goal is not to make screens the enemy or suggest that a playground can solve every challenge facing children. It is about balance.

If communities want children to spend more time moving, playing and connecting face to face, they also need to give them safe, appealing and accessible places to do it.

"The State of Our Kids Report shows why places like this still matter. Screens are part of children's lives, but play needs to be part of their lives too. A playground will not solve every challenge a child faces, but it gives them another place to spend their time, move their bodies, use their imaginations and connect with each other," said Lysa Ratliff, CEO of KABOOM!

Designed with kids, not just for them

For the children who participated in the Design Day, the new playground also sends another message: their ideas matter.

"At the Y, we encourage children to explore their imagination and to dream big, and this project has provided an opportunity for youth to see their creativity become a reality," said Curt Hazelbaker, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. "They'll be able to point to parts of this playground and say, 'That was my idea.' It shows them that their contribution to this community is valued."

The finished playground includes ramps, ground-level play features and an accessible glider, creating more opportunities for children with different abilities to enjoy the same space and play together.

More than 200 volunteers from Foresters Financial, PHP Agency, KABOOM! and the Waxahachie community worked side by side to complete the build in one day.

"Making an impact starts with showing up and coming together for a greater purpose. We're incredibly proud to partner with Foresters and KABOOM! to help create a space where children can play, families can connect, and the community can come together. This is about more than building a park, it's about building something that will bring joy and create memories for years to come," Maral Keshishian, President), PHP Agency

180 playgrounds, 20 years, thousands of reasons to keep building

The Waxahachie project marks the 180th playground Foresters Financial has built with KABOOM!, continuing a 20-year collaboration focused on expanding access to safe, welcoming places for children to play.

For Foresters, the milestone is about more than a number. Reaching 180 playgrounds is something we are enormously proud of, but every build brings us back to why we started doing this in the first place. Kids need places where they can be kids. What makes Waxahachie especially meaningful is that the children told us what they wanted, and then our job was to listen and help bring their ideas to life," said Matt Berman, President and CEO, Foresters Financial.

The build takes place during KABOOM!'s 30th anniversary year. Its 2026 State of Our Kids Report combines research with perspectives from young people and leaders across the youth-serving sector, examining screen time, declining physical activity and unequal access to outdoor spaces.

The challenge is not choosing between technology and play. Modern childhood has room for both. The question is whether children have enough opportunities to put down the screen when they want to and find something worth getting up for.

In Waxahachie, there is now one more place to do exactly that.

About Foresters Financial

Financial security and living your purpose

For over 150 years, Foresters has been helping families protect their financial future. But we don't stop there. As a purpose-driven organization, we empower our members with opportunities to enhance their health, support their local communities and champion the causes they care about most. We provide life insurance in the US and Canada, as well as life insurance and savings solutions in the UK, while partnering with our members to help them do more of the good they want to do.

Since 1874, we've been steadfast community builders. Today, sustainability, environmental consciousness and social responsibility are central to delivering our purpose. This commitment drives us to offer meaningful lifelong benefits1, such as Foresters Care™ grants that unite communities, Competitive Scholarships2 to nurture future leaders and more initiatives designed to create a world where good thrives. Together, we're making a difference while inspiring new generations to give back. Foresters Financial is the trade name for The Independent Order of Foresters, the oldest non-denominational fraternal benefit society. For 25 straight years, The Independent Order of Foresters has received an "A" (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best.3

About PHP Agency

Founded in 2009, PHP Agency is a tech-enabled life insurance marketing organization focused on expanding access to financial education, life insurance and entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly within historically underserved communities. Headquartered in Addison, Texas, PHP has more than 50,000 agents across 49 states and Puerto Rico and has served more than 600,000 families. PHP Agency is part of Integrity and partners with leading insurance and annuity carriers to help families protect their financial futures while creating opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds to build careers in the insurance industry.

About The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas

The Y is one of the nation's leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas serves thousands of men, women and children each year, regardless of age, income or background. Anchored in 17 North Texas communities, the Dallas Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. The Y ensures all people have access to the essentials needed to become thriving members of the community. Daily, the Y bridges and fills individual and community needs as a catalyst for impactful change. The YMCA makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower people and communities to learn, grow and thrive. To learn more or get involved in improving our local communities, have opportunities to make an impact and support your neighbors, please visit us at www.ymcadallas.org.

About KABOOM!

KABOOM! is the national nonprofit committed to ending playspace inequity – the reality that quality places to play are not available to every child, especially in communities of color. Since 1996, KABOOM! has partnered with kids, communities, and public and private partners to transform 17,000+ playspaces, expanding access to the physical, mental, and social benefits of play for more than 12 million kids nationwide. As KABOOM! celebrates its 30th year, the organization is focused on community-driven solutions through public-private partnerships, research, policy, and advocacy to elevate the current state of our kids and center youth voice in shaping equitable access to playspaces and nature. Together with partners across sectors, KABOOM! is building the play infrastructure kids need to grow up happy and healthy for generations to come. Learn more at kaboom.org or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

SOURCE The Independent Order of Foresters

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The recognition honors the new OAS Federal Credit Union website, built on Umbraco as a platform for the credit union's member strategy

CUMBERLAND, R.I., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Scandia Consulting has been named the recipient of The American Standout Award at the 2026 Umbraco U.S. Partner Summit Awards, in recognition of its work for OAS Federal Credit Union. Umbraco presented the awards on September 30 in Chicago, as part of the first U.S. Partner Summit.

Umbraco established the awards this year to recognize the work of its U.S. partner community, and Scandia's entry was one of 70 case studies submitted by U.S. partners. The American Standout Award is given to a project that stands out in the U.S. market for its impact, execution, and overall quality. Scandia's entry described the new oasfcu.org. Umbraco also presented the Stars, Stripes & AI Award, for a project that uses AI in a smart, practical, or creative way, to Proworks for Mold Inspection Sciences, and the CEO Award, selected by Umbraco leadership for vision, execution, and contribution to the ecosystem, to Adage for the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. Scandia congratulates both winners.

OAS Federal Credit Union engaged Scandia to build a digital platform that could carry its member strategy for years, with the new website as the first expression of that platform. The goals were to guide members to the right decision, personalize the experience, create conversion opportunities, produce better data, and allow the platform to keep evolving without a rebuild.

Scandia led the engagement as a consulting partner first and an implementation partner second. Discovery, competitive and SEO analysis, a full content inventory, and seven member personas were completed before design began. The platform was then built on Umbraco CMS with Umbraco Engage, using English and Spanish as parallel content trees, a library of 69 widgets across five grid layouts, a centralized rate manager, disclosures bound to products, and branch and ATM data integrated with CO-OP and other shared-branching networks. The site launched on April 30, 2026, after a complete migration from WordPress.

Farid Topchiev, Chief Product Officer at Scandia, was instrumental in the architecture and overall delivery of the platform.

"Great websites are designed and built with longevity in mind. A thoughtful, strategic analysis phase establishes the foundation for everything that follows, creating a solution that not only serves the end user today, but can grow and adapt over time. We believe that includes the people who maintain the site just as much as the people who consume it. A website that is easy to use but challenging to manage will eventually become difficult to scale. A high-performing digital platform pairs an optimized user experience with an equally intentional editor experience: a CMS that is intuitive, efficient, and designed to make everyday changes simpler. When both are considered from the outset, you create more than a successful launch. You create a website positioned to evolve and deliver for years to come."

Farid Topchiev, Chief Product Officer, Scandia Consulting

Publishing a rate change now takes under 30 minutes, compared with roughly two days of manual edits previously, a reduction of more than 90 percent. Disclosure-related content corrections fell by more than 80 percent once disclosures were bound to products. The guided account finder contributed to a 37 percent increase in online account-opening conversion, and site sessions grew 33 percent in the first quarter after launch.

"The efficiencies mattered. But they weren't the strategy. The bigger value was having a platform that could make the strategy scalable. Scandia didn't just give us a better platform. They built the infrastructure that gave us the ability to think much bigger about what the digital experience could become."

Patricia Mercado, Marketing Director at OAS Federal Credit Union during the project

"We are honored to receive The American Standout Award from among 70 submissions across the U.S. Umbraco partner community, and we are grateful to the OAS FCU team for their partnership. This project showed what is possible when the member strategy is defined first and the platform is built to carry it. We also thank Umbraco for creating an awards program that recognizes the work of the U.S. partner community. We are also pleased to be part of this new era for the Umbraco community and to help our clients adopt AI in the years ahead."

Nik Wahlberg, CEO and Founder, Scandia Consulting

Scandia was founded in 2008 and became an Umbraco Gold Partner in 2012. The firm authored the Umbraco User's Guide (Wrox, 2011) and organized the U.S. Umbraco developer conference from 2015 through 2019, at a time when few firms in the United States were building on the platform or supporting its community. The award also comes at the start of a new period for the industry. Scandia intends to help shape how it and its clients adopt AI in their work over the coming months and years, continuing the strategy-first approach used for OAS FCU.

The full case study is available at myscandia.com/projects/oas-fcu.

About Scandia Consulting

Scandia Consulting is an Umbraco Gold Partner, founded in 2008. The firm provides strategy, CMS development, migrations, and integrations for financial services, manufacturing, and other industries. Scandia works with credit unions and community banks in a strategy-first sequence, documenting and agreeing the member strategy before the platform is built to carry it. Learn more at myscandia.com.

About OAS Federal Credit Union

OAS Federal Credit Union is a Washington, D.C. credit union founded in 1962 by colleagues at the Organization of American States. It serves more than 8,500 members across 38 partner organizations, in English and Spanish, and holds more than $290 million in assets. Learn more at oasfcu.org.

Media contact: Nik Wahlberg, CEO and Founder | [email protected] | 401-566-3000

SOURCE Scandia Consulting

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New seasonal experiences across the Four Seasons portfolio invite guests to gather, discover and reconnect on land and at sea

TORONTO, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Seasons welcomes guests for the festive season with experiences designed to inspire connection and celebration around the world. From culinary offerings and wellness rituals to cultural traditions and festive voyages aboard Four Seasons Yachts, guests are invited to slow down, come together and create meaningful memories through the lens of Four Seasons.

"The festive season brings people together in meaningful ways, creating opportunities to reconnect with loved ones, celebrate traditions, and make new memories. At Four Seasons, we believe these moments are most memorable when they feel personal," says Marc Speichert, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Four Seasons. "Across our portfolio, our teams have thoughtfully crafted festive experiences that reflect the unique character of each destination while ensuring every guest feels that their experience has been curated just for them."

Thanksgiving, Your Way – At home or abroad, Four Seasons offers distinctive ways to gather for Thanksgiving. Whether celebrating the season of gratitude from the beaches of Anguilla or the jungles of Costa Rica, to enjoying seasonal menus closer to home, guests can spend Thanksgiving in their own way.

Taking in Thailand's Festival of Lights – Across Thailand, Four Seasons marks Loy Krathong with traditions that honour gratitude, renewal and new beginnings, offering an immersive introduction to one of the country's most celebrated festivals. Guests can release handcrafted krathongs onto the water, enjoy authentic Northern Thai cuisine and experience cultural performances at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle.

Winter in the Mountains – Four Seasons Mountain Collection invites guests to spend the season in a winter wonderland. Beyond exceptional skiing, culinary and wellness experiences, exclusive offerings include A Private Night at the Summit at Four Seasons Resort Megève, where guests enjoy a private suite nearly 2,000 metres above sea level, the attentive service of a dedicated butler, stargazing beneath the Alpine sky, privileged first access to untouched slopes, and a collection of bespoke experiences designed to create lasting memories.

Winter by the Water – For those trading snow for sunshine, festive celebrations unfold across some of the world's most remarkable coastlines. At Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, A Sea of Wonder transforms the resort into an ocean-inspired festive setting, connecting the magic of Christmas with the carefree rhythm of island life. At Four Seasons Resort and Residences Fort Lauderdale guests can set out on a private yacht through the city's famed waterways before returning for a culinary journey through its Michelin award-winning dining destinations.

The Spirit of the Season – From beautifully adorned trees to distinctive décor, Four Seasons hotels and resorts around the world bring the spirit of the season to life through thoughtful design, immersive installations and celebrations of artistry that reflect the culture and character of each destination. At Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, and Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, guests can take in awe-inspiring festive installations from Creative Director Jeff Leatham.

Christmas Around the World – From South Florida's coastline to the shores of the Red Sea, Christmas celebrations evoke a distinct local sense of place. At Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, guests can arrive to in-room Christmas trees, either fully decorated or ready for families to trim together, while the iconic New Year's Eve party at Champagne Bar rings in the year and celebrates The Surf Club's 1930 opening anniversary. At Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh turns into a winter wonderland by the Red Sea with festive Christmas Market brings together holiday treats, local crafts and live entertainment along Reef Beach.

Time Together – Shared experiences create new traditions. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, families can explore the ocean together through turtle feeding, marine discovery and coral restoration experiences that strengthen bonds with each other and the natural world. At Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Family Aerial Play and Family Wellness Games bring guests of all ages together through movement-based activities that celebrate joy and connection as part of wellbeing.

A Season of Renewal – Guests are invited to focus on wellbeing and restore balance at the busiest time of year. Rooted in one of Mexico's most extraordinary natural landscapes and set among a 3,000-acre natural reserve, Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo offers meaningful moments to connect with nature, fellow travelers, and yourself. Amidst the expansive setting of Wyoming, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole marks the season with winter solstice yoga, fireside reflection, and a New Year's Day Recovery Lounge featuring oxygen therapy and IV hydration.

New Year's Eve at Sea – Aboard Four Seasons Yachts, guests can welcome 2027 while sailing through the Caribbean. From champagne at midnight, to a Yacht Club Day at Norman's Cay, and a Fresh Start Marina Day in the Bahamas, the tone is set for the year ahead.

For a full list of festive offerings at Four Seasons properties around the world, click here.

About Four Seasons

Four Seasons opened its first hotel in 1961 and since that time has become a global leader in luxury hospitality and branded residential, with a focus on genuine and unparalleled service experiences. Four Seasons currently operates 140 hotels and resorts and 61 residential properties in major city centres and resort destinations in 47 countries. The company continues to grow with a guest-centric mindset, including a global pipeline of more than 60 projects under planning or in development. In addition to its hotels and resorts, Four Seasons experiential offerings include more than 600 restaurants and bars globally, the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience, and Four Seasons Yachts. Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world's best hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars, and most prestigious luxury hospitality brand in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com. For the latest news, visit press.fourseasons.com.

Contact:

Four Seasons

Kristina Rivera Stark

[email protected]

SOURCE Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

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Plugging a huge gap in the $30B global asset visibility market, Terra is now opening its Explorer Program to first movers

SAN MATEO, Calif., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Band24, a leader in infrastructure-free asset management and telemetry, today announced Terra, the first device built so no asset goes dark when cell coverage drops or a crowded city block makes Bluetooth® connectivity spotty. Terra brings three fundamentally different low-power networks – terrestrial Bluetooth®, LTE-M cellular, and direct-to-satellite connectivity – together to provide unprecedented low-cost visibility across remote areas. Any company responsible for physical objects of value needs to stay on top of where those assets are – from vehicles and the goods they transport, to containers, livestock, and tools of the trade. With Terra, businesses can gain a near-continuous view of where things are, wherever they go.

"Every business with physical assets has felt this same pain – you can see your equipment until the exact moment it matters most, and then it's gone dark. Terra narrows that gap. Throwing an AirTag or Tile into a toolbox won't cut it," said Patrick Patel, co-founder and CEO of Band24. "We built Terra so businesses never have to choose between visibility and simplicity again. In addition to the satellite connectivity, we've been hard at work thinking about how to make Terra as robust, easy-to-use and affordable as possible, to ensure it stands up to the needs of the entire asset management system."

A New Category of Connectivity

Terra packs three low-power networks into a single palm-sized device: a terrestrial Bluetooth® network of 100M+ crowdsourced access points, LTE-M cellular, and direct Bluetooth®-to-satellite continuity through Hubble Network's low-earth-orbit network. Terra holds up where single-network devices give out: in dense cities, remote job sites, and everything in between.

"Band24 is putting our satellite network to work in a way that makes global asset visibility accessible to any business, not just those with enterprise budgets," said Alex Haro, co-founder and CEO of Hubble Network. "Terra is a great example of what's possible when terrestrial and satellite connectivity work together seamlessly."

On-Demand, Not Just Schedule

Most battery-powered asset devices report on fixed intervals, forcing businesses to wait for the next scheduled check-in even when something needs an answer right now. Terra breaks that constraint: businesses can request a location update at any moment and get a response back in about a minute, without disrupting the device's long-term battery life.

"This is the result of a year we spent perfecting our eDRX implementation, well beyond how it's typically used in the industry," said Patel. "It lets Terra behave like an always-on device without acting like one – you get the responsiveness when you need it, and years of battery life when you don't."

The Democratization of Global Asset Visibility

For the many businesses trying to keep track of invaluable assets with consumer-grade trackers never built for the job, Terra is an obvious upgrade. Built for years of maintenance-free use and to work for businesses of any size, not just those with massive operations budgets. Terra stands apart for several reasons:

- Inconspicuous and Impervious: The Terra device is smaller than a deck of cards, and its rugged, sealed enclosure shrugs off dust and water, and withstands drops.

- Built to Last: Multi-year battery life means businesses attach it once and move on for years.

- Infrastructure-Free by Design: No hubs, no private networks, no IT project required to get started. Terra is designed to remove complexity and worry, not add to it.

The value Terra provides in that small package also extends well beyond location. A shipping container that sits idle for three weeks in a rail yard. A trailer that overheats overnight. Terra catches all of it: an onboard accelerometer picks up motion and dwell; temperature and humidity sensors cover cold-chain and compliance needs; and tamper detection flags theft or unauthorized movement. All of that robust reporting sits on top of location history, delivered alongside on-demand live updates and geofence alerts.

No Lock-In, by Design

Terra plugs directly into Band24's existing Ranger dashboard and Events API, the same self-serve tools already streaming near real-time asset data for businesses of all sizes. There's no new system to learn and no infrastructure project to run to get started. Procurement need not be involved, though the system is robust enough for any enterprise.

Explorer Program: Early Access Open Now

Terra will be commercially available in 2027. In the meantime, Band24 is opening a pilot, the Explorer Program, giving a select cohort of businesses early access to Terra hardware starting this fall in exchange for direct feedback ahead of general availability. Applications open today and close November 13th, with selected participants receiving devices in December. Terra is on track for general availability in early 2027, with additional capabilities already in development.

Businesses interested in joining the Explorer Program can apply at https://www.band24.com/platform/terra.

About Band24

Band24 gives businesses broad visibility into where assets are, how they're moving, and when action is needed, through the simplest on-ramp to asset visibility available today. Its self-serve Ranger dashboard and Events API already power real deployments today, streaming the near real-time asset data that operations teams, and increasingly the AI systems supporting them, depend on to act quickly. Powered by the world's largest crowdsourced Bluetooth® network and extended by cellular and satellite connectivity, Band24 removes the cost and complexity that have kept near real-time asset visibility out of reach for most businesses. Learn more at https://www.band24.com/.

Media Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Band24

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KIST Bridges Korean Quantum Startups to Midwest Innovation Ecosystem in Wisconsin and Chicago

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following Quantum World Congress (QWC) 2026 in Maryland, four Korean quantum startups have expanded their U.S. market engagement through the Global Bridge Program, spanning Wisconsin and Chicago. Spearheaded by the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), the initiative connected the participating startups directly with accelerators, researchers, commercialization hubs and industry partners to explore opportunities for technology collaboration, business development and U.S. market entry.

The program is part of South Korea's Deeptech Incubator Project for Startups (DIPS), overseen by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and administered by the Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development. As the lead organization for the quantum technology sector, KIST drives technology commercialization and global expansion through international exhibitions and conferences, technology exchanges, targeted networking, and cross-border partnership development.

Wisconsin: Direct Pitch Access and Regional Economic Ties

In Milwaukee, the delegation completed an intensive pitch session with gener8tor, a U.S. accelerator and venture platform. Co-founders Troy Vosseller and Joe Kirgues engaged directly with the startup founders through focused discussions and Q&As. Designed as an intimate, tailored workshop, the session provided direct access to gener8tor's leadership team while exploring avenues to connect Korean quantum companies with gener8tor's broader corporate network.

The delegation also met with Fanfu Li, Director of International Business Development (WEDC), to discuss opportunities to connect Korean startups with local businesses and industry networks. Both sides agreed to maintain momentum, with further discussions on Wisconsin trade delegation's scheduled visit to South Korea in November 2026.

Chicago: From Research to Industrialization

In Chicago, the program focused on pathways from quantum research to commercialization and manufacturing. The delegation met with leaders across the Chicago quantum ecosystem, including the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE), the University of Chicago, the Bloch Quantum Tech Hub, mHUB and the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP). The delegation also met with the Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC), including Chief Quantum Officer Preeti Chalsani, to discuss Illinois' growing quantum ecosystem and opportunities to connect Korean quantum startups with the state's business and industry networks.

At the University of Chicago, the participating startups presented their technologies to David Awschalom, Director of the Chicago Quantum Institute and Founding Director of the CQE, while exploring research and commercialization opportunities across Chicago's quantum ecosystem.

Key highlights focused on how Chicago bridges quantum R&D with advanced hard-tech manufacturing:

- Bloch Quantum Tech Hub: Connects quantum innovation with manufacturing and industry.

- mHUB: Serves as Chicago's hard-tech innovation center, supporting product validation and business scale-up.

- Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP): A 128-acre development bringing together quantum and microelectronics businesses, researchers, suppliers and advanced infrastructure.

Together, these engagements gave the Korean delegation a first-hand look at how Chicago's quantum ecosystem connects research and startup development with technology validation, manufacturing and market deployment.

Building a Pathway into the U.S. Quantum Ecosystem

"For Korean quantum startups to scale globally, it is important not only to showcase their technologies overseas, but to build sustained relationships with investors, institutions and industrial leaders," said Dr. SunJoon Kang, Director of KIST's Technology Commercialization Office and head of DIPS quantum sector.

The Midwest tour builds on KIST's series of 2026 U.S. engagements, which began with the SelectUSA Investment Summit and continued through QWC 2026.

Participating Startups:

- TruPixel: Develops SPAD-based single-photon detection sensors for quantum communications, advanced sensing and imaging.

- OptiQ-Labs: Manufactures optical hardware for trapped-ion quantum technologies, including ultra-narrow-linewidth laser and ion-trap systems.

- QRENS: Develops quantum software, including the AI-driven QubitSquare framework and Q-Vista digital-twin simulator.

- Elixir: Delivers classical-quantum hybrid computing solutions for medical data analysis, biomarker discovery and drug development.

SOURCE The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)

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- The new product proactively notifies Customers of a disruption (a delay of more than two hours or a same-day cancellation) and lets them rebook on Volaris or another airline for free, or if not satisfied with their rebooking options receive a 100% refund of their trip cost, while keeping the disrupted flight.

- It is a complimentary, premium service that adds to the obligations and guarantees Volaris already offers its customers, without replacing them.

- It is now available through Volaris.com at the time of flight purchase.

MONTREAL, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Volaris introduces Disruption Assistance powered by HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions), a new premium service that gives Customers more flexibility and decision-making power when facing unexpected events on the day of their flight. With this product, the airline adds a new option for travelers to have greater confidence and control over their itinerary, regardless of the reason for the disruption.

In the event of a delay of more than two hours or a cancellation on the day of travel, Customers who have purchased this service can choose between two options: rebook their flight, either on Volaris or another airline paid by HTS, or, if no rebooking alternative works for them, receive a 100% refund of their trip cost, while keeping their disrupted flight. Customers can easily rebook themselves or receive a refund with a user-friendly self-serve tool.

This new service complements the obligations Volaris already has with its Customers in disruption situations, and in no way replaces them or releases the airline from its responsibilities. It is an additional premium benefit, available to those who want greater flexibility.

"At Volaris, we want our Customers to travel with the confidence of knowing they have more options at their fingertips. With Disruption Assistance, we give them the ability to choose how to resolve an unexpected situation: by rebooking their trip in the way that works best for them, backed by a service guarantee equal to the price of their ticket. This is about adding real flexibility to the travel experience when they need it most," said Verónica Nieto Calvo, Director of Ancillary Revenue and Dynamic Pricing at Volaris.

The product is optional and can be purchased at the time of flight booking through Volaris.com. Pricing is dynamic and varies based on the selected route and other factors, and it is the Customer who decides whether to include it in their purchase. Disruption Assistance is powered by HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions), a leading travel technology platform specializing in fintech and travel solutions for airlines worldwide.

"Disruption Assistance gives travelers greater control and confidence by delivering immediate, flexible options when their plans are disrupted," said Ella Alkalay Schreiber, SVP & GM of Fintech at HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions). "Volaris' focus on innovation and delivering greater flexibility for its Customers makes them an ideal partner to introduce this solution and deliver a more seamless travel experience."

This initiative responds to a global trend among airlines seeking to offer greater flexibility to passengers facing disruptions, recognizing that giving travelers more control over their decisions, whether rebooking their flight or receiving a refund, has become an increasingly valued standard among modern travelers.

Disruption Assistance is now available, subject to the product's terms and conditions.

SOURCE HTS (Hopper Technology Solutions)

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Claroty Uncovers Trends Across AI, Business Continuity, and Compliance for Organizations Protecting Mission-Critical Infrastructure

NEW YORK, October 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Claroty, the cyber-physical systems (CPS) protection company, today published new research on operational security trends and challenges facing global organizations, including the fact that 58% of CPS operators say they've experienced a cyberattack impacting operational environments in the last 12 months. The report, "The Global State of Operational Security 2026: Protecting Operations Evolves as a Core Business Capability," is based on a global survey of 2,000 business and technology leaders whose organizations manage CPS. The findings reveal that securing operational technology (OT) and CPS is essential to overall operational resilience, business continuity, digital transformation and AI adoption, maintaining compliance standards, and meeting cyber insurance mandates.

Disruptions to Operational Environments Threaten Business Continuity

The survey showed that cyber incidents impacting CPS result in material effects on the health of a business. It's a fact that's driving today's cybersecurity investment priorities: 37% of survey-takers said operational risk and cyber threats are a top driver of investment, followed by digital transformation/modernization (36%) and the risk of business disruption or revenue loss (29%). Other key findings include:

- The top impacts from operational incidents were: operational downtime (selected by 43% of respondents), safety incidents and hazards (40%), and financial loss (35%)

- The average financial loss from an incident impacting operations was $1.04 million, and losses hit larger companies hardest: Organizations with at least 5,000 employees saw $1.6M in average losses, and those with at least 10,000 employees saw $2.25M in average losses

- The average length of operational downtime from a CPS cyber incident was three days, and nearly 10% of respondents reported downtimes ranging from eight to thirty days

- Third-party access also contributed to operational risk, with 75% saying they suffered at least one incident impacting operations related to third-party access and 49% said they had only partial or no monitoring of third-party connections

- Despite costly impacts, IT and operational security remain fragmented, with only a mere 16% reporting that they've fully integrated the two

Embracing AI Adoption While Managing AI Threats

Respondents indicated they are ready to implement AI across operational environments to improve efficiency and support human-in-the-loop expertise. This is occurring as organizations prepare for a rapid increase in AI-driven attacks against CPS. Survey results include:

- 30% said effective use of AI, automation, and advanced analytics is a top success factor for digital transformation initiatives

- 70% said AI is being used in operational environments, and 71% said AI is a baseline cybersecurity procurement requirement

- Respondents said AI has improved operational efficiency (48%), decision-making (46%), and enabled new business models (37%)

- Respondents consider AI-powered cyberattacks (selected by 37%) as a greater risk to operational integrity than ransomware (27%), supply chain compromises (23%), and legacy OT assets (21%)

Navigating Compliance Through Proactive Resilience

The complexities of the regulatory environment and the level of expertise required to understand the convergence of IT and OT operations are creating challenges for organizations, but embracing a proactive approach to compliance helps position organizations for operational resilience. The survey findings show:

- The most common operational barriers threatening the viability of compliance programs are: ongoing IT/OT alignment challenges (29%), legacy technical debt (26%), and limited asset visibility (16%)

- The top three compliance barriers facing organizations are: keeping up with evolving regulations, mandates, and frameworks (38%), managing compliance across multiple sites, regions, business units (35%), and implementing policies, controls needed to achieve compliance (34%)

- 82% of organizations that have fully integrated IT/OT governance have a proactive or structured compliance approach

- 75% said they have a proactive and structured approach to compliance management

"Businesses have quickly realized that prioritizing operational resilience is key to ensuring robust protection across the world's most critical infrastructure," said Sean Tufts, Field CTO at Claroty. "Critical infrastructure organizations are experiencing a seismic shift in the threat landscape, given the proliferation of AI threats and the current geopolitical landscape. This is driving them to re-position from a standard asset-centric mindset to one centered on operational resilience that combines proactive risk reduction with robust recovery capabilities that protect core processes without halting operations."

The survey shows that operational resilience must be treated as a cybersecurity imperative and core business priority, with assets protected, segmented, and governed to withstand and rapidly recover from a disruptive incident. Bridging IT/OT governance, mandating strict third-party access controls and monitoring, modernizing business continuity plans, and securing AI adoption are the initiatives CIOs and COOs—those most often cited as accountable (39% of respondents) for operational security and its budget (28% said CIOs are owners)—must prioritize in order to maintain the safety and uptime of their operational environments.

To learn more, download the full report: "The Global State of Operational Security 2026: Protecting Operations Evolves as a Core Business Capability"

Methodology

Claroty partnered with Sapio Research to survey 2,000 full-time company founders, C-level executives, vice presidents, directors, and other technology and business managers spanning 16 industries, and more than 40 countries. All respondents are primary decision-makers, part of decision-making teams, or influence technology purchases and implementations.

About Claroty

Claroty empowers organizations to protect the mission-critical infrastructure that underpins modern life. The AI-powered Claroty Platform serves as the single source of operational truth, providing the deepest visibility and broadest protection across cyber-physical systems (CPS), leveraging five core solutions: asset inventory, exposure management, network protection, secure access, and threat detection. Claroty helps organizations operationalize CPS protection through a programmatic approach designed to reduce risk, maintain operational integrity, and meet compliance–whether in the cloud with Claroty xDome or on-premise with Claroty Continuous Threat Detection (CTD). Claroty is deployed by hundreds of organizations at thousands of sites globally. The company is headquartered in New York City and has a presence in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. To learn more, visit claroty.com.

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Claroty

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The limited-edition Expedition Parka blends REI's outdoor heritage with BEAMS' contemporary Japanese design perspective

SEATTLE, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, REI Co-op and BEAMS unveiled the BEAMS x REI Co-op Expedition Parka, a limited-edition collaboration that revives one of REI's most iconic cold-weather designs through the lens of contemporary Japanese style.

Inspired by an original 1986 Expedition Parka discovered in REI's archive, the new jacket blends nearly 90 years of outdoor heritage with BEAMS' distinct design. The result is a modern interpretation of a co-op classic, honoring the original's purpose-built functionality while introducing modern materials and performance features for life outside today.

"The best pieces in our archive don't feel like relics. They feel as relevant today as they did when they were first designed," said Scott Mosher, creative director, Brand at REI Co-op. "What made the Expedition Parka special in 1986 still matters today: purposeful design, durability and a deep connection to life outside. Working with BEAMS gave us a chance to celebrate that heritage while seeing it through a completely fresh lens."

"BEAMS has always been interested in American style and the stories behind the clothes," said Keita Kobayashi, BEAMS Men's Casual Buyer. "When we began working with the original Expedition Parka from REI's archive, there were so many details that felt special and worth preserving. We wanted to respect what made the original distinctly REI while bringing a BEAMS perspective to how it could be worn today. That balance between outdoor function, history and everyday style is what makes this collaboration exciting to us."

While rooted in heritage, the Expedition Parka is built for the present. The jacket features WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS® fabric, 650-fill-power down insulation, a durable water repellent (DWR) made without PFAS, and recycled materials—and it's made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory. Co-branded details and a coordinating stuff sack complete the design.

Only 500 BEAMS x REI Co-op Expedition Parkas were produced, making this a highly limited-edition release. Beginning October 6, the parka will be available for $599 online and at select stores.

The Expedition Parka marks the latest chapter in the relationship between REI and BEAMS, building on the brands' successful 2025 collaboration with Swiss performance brand On. That collection brought the three brands together around outdoor culture, technical performance and everyday style, with REI's archive providing inspiration and examples of timeless colorways.

About REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 26 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op's many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

About BEAMS

BEAMS, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in March 2026, was founded in Harajuku, Tokyo, in 1976. Following its first store, "American Life Shop BEAMS," it has developed stores based on various lifestyles from around the world and has led the way as a pioneer of select shops that introduce a wide range of domestic and international brands and works, from fashion and miscellaneous goods to interiors, music, art, and food. In particular, it has a wealth of experience as a driving force in creating new value through collaborations and provides creative solutions in collaborations with companies and public-private partnerships. With approximately 165 stores in Japan and the Asian region, the culture woven from communities centered on things, events, and people is supported by a wide range of generations in various locations.

SOURCE REI Co-op

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JERSEY CITY, N.J., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BetMGM LLC ("BetMGM"), a leading sports betting and iGaming operator across North America, jointly owned by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) ("MGM Resorts") and Entain plc (LSE: ENT) ("Entain"), will release a business update for the period July 1 – September 30, 2026 ("Q3") on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

BetMGM management will host an audio webcast call including Q&A at 9am ET / 6am PT / 2pm UK.

Registration links for BetMGM webcast and investor Q&A:

BetMGM Q3 2026 Audio Webcast

Investor Registration for Q&A

Further details also available on BetMGM's website: BetMGM Investor Communications

About BetMGM

BetMGM is a market leading sports betting and gaming entertainment company, pioneering the online gaming industry. Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) and Entain Plc (LSE: ENT), BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM Resorts' U.S. land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain's U.S.-licensed, state-of-the-art technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via market-leading brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino, Party Casino and Party Poker. Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey. For more information, visit www.betmgminc.com

About MGM Resorts International

MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) is an S&P 500® global gaming and entertainment company with national and international destinations featuring best-in-class hotels and casinos, state-of-the-art meetings and conference spaces, incredible live and theatrical entertainment experiences, and an extensive array of restaurant, nightlife and retail offerings. MGM Resorts creates immersive, iconic experiences through its suite of Las Vegas-inspired brands. The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 30 unique hotel and gaming destinations globally, including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. The Company's 50/50 venture, BetMGM LLC, offers sports betting and online gaming in North America through market-leading brands, including BetMGM and partypoker, and the Company's subsidiary, LV Lion Holding Limited, offers sports betting and online gaming through market-leading brands in several jurisdictions throughout Europe and Brazil. The Company is currently pursuing targeted expansion in Asia through an integrated resort development in Japan. Through its Focused on What Matters philosophy, MGM Resorts commits to creating a more sustainable future, while striving to make a bigger difference in the lives of its employees, guests and in the communities where it operates. The global employees of MGM Resorts are proud of their company for being recognized as one of FORTUNE® Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies®. For more information, please visit us at mgmresorts.com. Please also connect with us @MGMResortsIntl on X as well as Facebook and Instagram.

About Entain plc

Entain plc (LSE: ENT) is a FTSE listed company and is one of the world's largest sports betting and gaming groups, operating both online and in the retail sector. The Group owns a comprehensive portfolio of established brands; Sports brands include BetCity, bwin, Coral, Crystalbet, Eurobet, Ladbrokes, Neds, Sportingbet, Sports Interaction, STS and SuperSport; Gaming brands include Foxy Bingo, Gala, GiocoDigitale, Ninja Casino, Optibet, Partypoker and PartyCasino. The Group operates the TAB NZ brand as part of a long-term strategic partnership with TAB New Zealand. The Group owns proprietary technology across all its core product verticals and in addition to its B2C operations, provides services to a number of third-party customers on a B2B basis.

The Group has a 50/50 joint venture, BetMGM, a leader in sports betting and iGaming in the US. Entain provides the technology and capabilities which power BetMGM as well as exclusive games and products, specially developed at its in-house gaming studios.

The Group is tax resident in the UK and is a global operator focused on regulated or regulating markets, operating in over 30 territories.

Entain is a leader in ESG, being AAA rated by MSCI, and a member of the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook and the FTSE4Good. For more information see the Group's website: www.entaingroup.com

SOURCE MGM Resorts International

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