Manchester United Legend Louis Saha to Join Bahrain Fintech Forward 2026 Speaker Lineup

MANAMA, Bahrain, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Renowned football legend and global entrepreneur Louis Saha has joined Fintech Forward 2026's speaker lineup to showcase his unique perspective on leadership, reinvention, and building long-term, sustainable success. The region's flagship financial services forum will take place on 7-8 October 2026 at Exhibition World Bahrain, under the theme "Finance in the Age of Intelligent Infrastructure."

As a former Premier League and France international footballer, Saha has won the Champions League, two Premier League titles, a World Cup silver medal, and has represented some of Europe's most recognised clubs, including Manchester United, Everton, Fulham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Following a distinguished playing career, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding KiiMasters, a technology venture designed to transform influence into measurable positive action, and AxisStars, a private networking platform now valued at £4.3 billion that helps thousands of professional athletes navigate business, financial, and career development opportunities.

At FF26, Saha will participate in a fireside chat titled "From the Pitch to the Platform: Turning Experience into the Next Opportunity." The session will explore how personal experience can identify emerging gaps and catalyse solutions with the potential for broad, lasting impact, drawing on Saha's journey from sport to building world-class technology-enabled platforms.

Louis Saha said: "Throughout my career, both on and off the pitch, I've seen how access to the right networks, guidance, and opportunities is critical to ensure lasting success. I'm looking forward to visiting Bahrain and joining Fintech Forward 2026 to share my experiences on the importance of connection, discuss the challenges of reinvention, and explore how technology can help people better navigate important transitions in their lives and careers."

Hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) and supported by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority (BTEA), and Bahrain Fintech Bay, the event is programmed by Forbes Middle East. Fintech Forward 2026 brings together global thought leaders, innovators, investors, policymakers, and industry executives to examine the forces shaping the future of financial services. Through a programme of keynote sessions, panel discussions, fireside conversations, exhibitions, and strategic networking opportunities, Fintech Forward 2026 will provide a platform to build partnerships and explore opportunities emerging across the regional financial services and technology landscape.

Financial services is the largest contributor to Bahrain's economy, accounting for 17.6% of GDP in 2025. Building on over 100 years of experience as a regional financial hub, the island nation has developed a dynamic fintech ecosystem supported by deep sector expertise, a collaborative business environment, forward-looking regulations, and a highly skilled, future-proofed talent base. Bahrain was the first country in the region to introduce an onshore regulatory sandbox, open banking regulations, crypto-asset regulation, and, most recently, the GCC's first stablecoin framework, reflecting a long-standing approach to enabling innovation while supporting the responsible evolution of financial services.

For more details or to register interest in attending FF26, please visit the website.

SOURCE Bahrain EDB

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HYDERABAD, India, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Mordor Intelligence, the global soybean oil market size is estimated to grow from USD 43.87 billion in 2026 to USD 57.66 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 5.62% during the forecast period (2026-2031). Growth is being anchored by rising renewable diesel and biofuel demand, even as the EU Deforestation Regulation pushes retailers and processors toward traceable, certified supply chains, and additional crushing capacity in Brazil and Argentina offsets slower North American expansion.

Soybean Oil Market Key Growth Factors

Renewable Diesel and Biofuel Mandates Anchor Structural Demand

Renewable energy mandates across the United States, Canada, Brazil, and the European Union are guaranteeing a structural demand floor for soybean oil as a biofuel feedstock, buffering the market against cyclical swings in food consumption. Demand is broadening further as plant-based food manufacturers and industrial oleochemical producers add to the feedstock's traditional edible-oil base.

In the United States, the EPA finalized record-high Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2026 and 2027 in March 2026, with biodiesel and renewable diesel production projected to grow more than 60% versus 2025 levels. The rule strengthens the policy floor under soybean oil demand and is reinforcing crush margins for domestic processors.

EU Deforestation Regulation Reshapes Sourcing and Traceability Requirements

The EU Deforestation Regulation is pushing retailers and processors that place soy products on the EU market to secure traceable, certified supply chains, adding a new layer of compliance cost and complexity to global soybean oil sourcing. Soy is one of seven commodities explicitly covered by the regulation, alongside palm oil and cocoa.

Large and medium operators face a compliance deadline of December 30, 2026, with micro and small operators following by June 30, 2027. Suppliers able to document deforestation-free origin are positioned to capture preferential access to EU-facing demand as the deadline approaches.

Brazil and Argentina Crushing Capacity Expansion Offsets Slower North American Growth

Additional crushing capacity coming online in Brazil and Argentina is balancing slower capacity expansion in North America, keeping global soybean oil production on an upward trajectory even as regional growth rates diverge.

Technological gains such as high-oleic cultivars and enzyme-assisted extraction are helping processors lower costs and extend product shelf life, supporting margins as South American supply takes on a larger share of incremental global output.

"As renewable energy mandates and EU deforestation-compliance requirements reshape sourcing across the soybean oil value chain, our structural analysis maps shifting demand across food, feed, and biofuel end uses. Built on direct supply-chain auditing and objective volume tracking, this report equips commercial leaders with a verified, defensible foundation for strategic procurement and investment," says Bhavesh-Narasinha Varute, Senior Research Manager.

Soybean Oil Market Recent Industry Developments

- 2026 – The EPA finalized record-high Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2026-2027 in March 2026, with biodiesel and renewable diesel production projected to grow more than 60% versus 2025, reinforcing structural biofuel demand for soybean oil.

- 2026 – The EU Deforestation Regulation's compliance deadline for large and medium operators was set at December 30, 2026, requiring traceable, deforestation-free sourcing for soy and six other commodities entering the EU market.

Soybean Oil Market Segment Insights

By Nature

- Conventional

- Organic

By End User

- Food Processing

- Foodservice

- Retail

- Animal Feed

- Industrial

- Others

Soybean Oil Market Regional Insights

South America, led by Brazil and Argentina, is emerging as the primary growth engine for global soybean oil supply, as new crushing capacity comes online faster than in North America and export-oriented biofuel and food-processing demand expands.

North America remains a strategically important market anchored by renewable diesel demand and established food-processing infrastructure, even as capacity expansion there proceeds more slowly than in South America.

Europe's demand is increasingly shaped by regulatory compliance, with the EU Deforestation Regulation reshaping how processors and retailers source soy-based products. Asia-Pacific and the Middle East and Africa continue to represent large, price-sensitive consumption markets for food-grade soybean oil, supporting steady volume demand alongside the biofuel-driven growth in the Americas.

Discover the latest trends, growth opportunities, and competitive developments in the Soybean Oil Market in Japanese: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/ja/industry-reports/global-soybean-oil-market?utm_source=prnewswire

Competitive Landscape

The global soybean oil market remains moderately consolidated, with major crushers and integrated agribusiness companies competing on production scale, crush capacity, feedstock sourcing, and distribution reach across food, feed, and biofuel end markets.

Compliance capability is emerging as a new competitive differentiator: companies able to document deforestation-free, traceable soy sourcing are better positioned to retain EU-facing customers ahead of the region's December 2026 compliance deadline.

Producers are also investing in additional crushing capacity in South America and technology such as high-oleic cultivars and enzyme-assisted extraction to lower costs, diversify end-use exposure across food, feed, and industrial applications, and reduce reliance on any single demand channel.

Key Companies in the Soybean Oil Market

- Bunge Limited

- Cargill, Incorporated

- Wilmar International Ltd

- Archer-Daniels-Midland Company

- Richardson International Limited

Explore More Industry Research by Mordor Intelligence

Cold-Pressed Oil Market: The global cold-pressed oil market is projected to expand from USD 25.33 billion in 2026 to USD 33.21 billion by 2031, registering a 5.57% CAGR during 2026-2031. Market momentum is anchored by consumer demand for unrefined oils retaining bioactive polyphenols, essential fatty acids, and heat-sensitive vitamins. While feedstock volatility across olives, coconuts, and oilseeds impacts raw material costs, value realization is expanding as major supermarket and wholesale networks scale distribution for certified single-origin and premium unrefined oils.

Vegetable Oil Market Size: The global vegetable oil market size is projected to reach from USD 421.23 billion in 2026 to USD 598.85 billion by 2031, advancing at a 7.29% CAGR. Expanding plant-based dietary adoption and rising convenience food manufacturing are driving baseline volume throughput across retail and foodservice channels. In response to tightening international ESG mandates, refiners are accelerating investments in deforestation-free traceability programs and upgraded processing technologies to optimize oxidative stability and clean-label functional performance.

Palm Oil Market Share: The global palm oil market is expected to grow from USD 74.51 billion in 2026 to USD 92.01 billion by 2031, at a 4.31% CAGR during 2026-2031. Demand is underpinned by extensive cross-industry utilization across industrial food processing, personal care, and oleochemical derivatives. While RBD palm oil retains structural dominance in commercial frying and bakery shortenings, high-margin expansion is concentrated in specialized palm kernel fractions engineered for confectionery fats and dairy-alternative formulations.

About Mordor Intelligence:

Mordor Intelligence is a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive and actionable market intelligence. Our global reach, expert team, and tailored solutions empower organizations and individuals to make informed decisions, navigate complex markets, and achieve their strategic goals.

With a team of over 550 domain experts and on-ground specialists spanning 150+ countries, Mordor Intelligence possesses a unique understanding of the global business landscape. This expertise translates into comprehensive syndicated and custom research reports covering a wide spectrum of industries, including aerospace & defense, agriculture, animal nutrition and wellness, automation, automotive, chemicals & materials, consumer goods & services, electronics, energy & power, financial services, food & beverages, healthcare, hospitality & tourism, information & communications technology, investment opportunities, and logistics.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:   

[email protected]    

Mordor Intelligence Private Limited   

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/  

SOURCE Mordor Intelligence Private Limited

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- First-in-Class approval supported by Phase 3 BROADWAY, BROOKLYN, and TANDEM trials demonstrating significant LDL-C reductions with favorable tolerability profile -

- First global regulatory approval of obicetrapib marks a defining milestone for NewAmsterdam and Menarini, expanding treatment options for patients with elevated LDL-C -

FLORENCE, Italy, NAARDEN, Netherlands and MIAMI, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- NewAmsterdam Pharma Company N.V. (Nasdaq: NAMS or "NewAmsterdam" or the "Company"), a late-stage, clinical biopharmaceutical company developing oral, non-statin medicines for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease ("CVD") with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ("LDL-C"), for whom existing therapies are not sufficiently effective or well-tolerated, along with partner Menarini Group ("Menarini"), today announced that the European Commission (EC) has granted marketing authorization for Ubeslo® (obicetrapib 10 mg monotherapy) and Evlarco® (10 mg obicetrapib plus 10 mg ezetimibe fixed-dose combination) for patients with primary hypercholesterolaemia, both heterozygous familial ("HeFH") and non-familial or mixed dyslipidaemia, marking the first regulatory approval of obicetrapib worldwide.

"The European Commission approval of Ubeslo and Evlarco marks a major milestone for NewAmsterdam as the first regulatory approval of obicetrapib globally, a novel oral therapy, and validates years of work focused on delivering a potential new treatment option for patients who continue to struggle to achieve recommended LDL-C levels despite previously available therapies," said Michael Davidson, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of NewAmsterdam Pharma. "This first-in-class approval reflects the strength of the clinical evidence supporting obicetrapib, the dedication of our team and partners, and our commitment to addressing one of the largest unmet needs in cardiovascular medicine. Together with Menarini, we look forward to bringing Ubeslo and Evlarco to patients across Europe and building on this important milestone as we advance our vision of making obicetrapib available to patients around the world."

The European Commission approval follows the positive opinion adopted by the European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) and is supported by data from NewAmsterdam's comprehensive clinical development program evaluating obicetrapib, including the Phase 3 BROADWAY, BROOKLYN and TANDEM trials, which demonstrated statistically significant LDL-C reductions of up to 40% with obicetrapib monotherapy versus placebo and approximately 50% with obicetrapib combined with ezetimibe versus placebo, with a tolerability profile comparable to placebo. NewAmsterdam and Menarini continue to advance the clinical development of obicetrapib through multiple ongoing Phase 3 trials, including PREVAIL, a cardiovascular outcomes trial, as well as REMBRANDT and RUBENS.

"This approval represents an important advancement for patients across Europe who require additional LDL-C lowering despite available therapies," said Elcin Barker Ergun, Chief Executive Officer of Menarini Group. "We are proud to reach this significant achievement alongside NewAmsterdam and look forward to leveraging our well-established commercial capabilities and deep cardiovascular expertise to bring Ubeslo and Evlarco to healthcare providers and eligible patients throughout Europe."

Under the parties' licensing agreement, Menarini holds exclusive commercialization rights for obicetrapib in Europe and is responsible for regulatory interactions and commercialization activities throughout the region. NewAmsterdam is entitled to tiered double-digit percentage royalties ranging from the low double-digits to mid-twenties on net sales in the Menarini Territory and up to an additional €833 million upon the achievement of various clinical, regulatory and commercial milestones.

For full details on the approved indications, contraindications, warnings, and precautions please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) which will be made available on the European Medicines Agency websites at:

https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/ubeslo

https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/evlarco 

About Obicetrapib

Obicetrapib is a novel, oral, low-dose CETP inhibitor that NewAmsterdam is developing to overcome the limitations of current LDL-lowering treatments. In each of the Company's Phase 2 trials, ROSE2, TULIP, ROSE, and OCEAN, as well as the Company's Phase 3 BROOKLYN, BROADWAY and TANDEM trials, evaluating obicetrapib as monotherapy or combination therapy, the Company observed statistically significant LDL-lowering combined with a side effect profile similar to that of placebo. The Company commenced the Phase 3 PREVAIL cardiovascular outcomes trial in March 2022, which is designed to assess the potential of obicetrapib to reduce occurrences of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events ("MACE"). The Company completed enrollment of PREVAIL in April 2024 and randomized over 9,500 patients. Commercialization rights of obicetrapib in Europe, either as a monotherapy or as part of a fixed-dose combination with ezetimibe, have been exclusively granted to the Menarini Group, an Italy-based, leading international pharmaceutical and diagnostics company.

About Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, despite the availability of lipid-lowering therapies ("LLTs"). By 2050 more than 184 million U.S. adults are expected to be affected by CVD and hypertension, including 27 million with coronary heart disease and 19 million with stroke. In the United States from 2019 through 2022, CVD age-adjusted mortality rates increased by 9%, reversing the trend observed since 2010 and undoing nearly a decade of progress. Despite the availability of high-intensity statins and non-statin LLTs, LDL-C target level attainment remains low, contributing to residual cardiovascular risk, and underscoring a significant clinical need for improved therapeutic regimens. Even with 269 million LLT prescriptions written over the last 12 months, 30 million under-treated US adults are not at their risk-based LDL-C goal, of which 13 million have ASCVD. Less than 1 in 4 patients with ASCVD achieve an LDL-C goal of less than 70 mg/dL and only 10% of very high risk ASCVD patients achieve the goal below 55 mg/dL. In addition to the 30 million under-treated U.S. adults, there are 10 million patients diagnosed with elevated LDL-C who are not taking any LLTs including statins. Beyond LDL-C, additional factors are at play, such as lifestyle choices, tobacco use, and obesity, as well as inflammation, thrombosis, triglyceride levels, elevated Lp(a) levels, and type 2 diabetes.

About NewAmsterdam

NewAmsterdam Pharma (Nasdaq: NAMS) is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to build a new standard of care for people living with cardiometabolic disease. The Company is advancing therapies designed to address a significant unmet need for safe, well-tolerated, and convenient treatment options that lower LDL-C while advancing innovation beyond a single marker to better address cardiovascular risk. In multiple Phase 3 trials, NewAmsterdam is investigating obicetrapib, an oral, low-dose, once-daily CETP inhibitor, alone and as a fixed-dose combination with ezetimibe, in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease with elevated LDL-C. Guided by its mission, the Company challenges convention with courage, translates deep biological insight into meaningful patient impact, and delivers with rigor, precision, and purpose.

About Menarini Group

The Menarini Group, with headquarters in Florence, is present in 140 countries worldwide to date, with $5.5 billion in consolidated turnover and more than 17,000 employees. Menarini's products are present in the most important treatment areas, including those of cardiometabolic, oncology, gastroenterology, diabetology, pneumology, and anti-inflammatory/analgesic products. Through its commitment to R&D and high-quality manufacturing activities, Menarini continuously contributes to patients' health worldwide, maintaining the highest quality standards.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are subject to the "safe harbor" provisions created thereunder. All statements that are not historical facts are hereby identified as forwarding-looking statements for this purposes and include, among others, statements relating to: the therapeutic potential of obicetrapib; expected availability of Ubeslo and Evlarco across Europe; the Company's licensing agreement with Menarini and entitlement to potential future payments thereunder; the continued advancement of clinical development of obicetrapib through multiple ongoing Phase 3 trials; and other statements regarding the Company's future operations, prospects, objectives, strategies and other future events. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in these forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon management's current expectations and assumptions.

The article explains how music, dancing, local events, and shared traditions help dance halls remain important gathering spaces.

TEMPLE, Texas, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Why are Texas dance halls important? A HelloNation article provides the answer, featuring insights from Lorinda Baum of Bos Barn Dance Hall in Temple, Texas. The article examines how dance halls have remained community gathering places through music, celebrations, dancing, and traditions shared across generations.

The article explains that many historic dance halls were built when towns needed simple spaces where people could gather. Families met for dances, celebrations, fundraisers, and other community events. Regular gatherings gradually connected these buildings to the people and towns surrounding them.

That connection remains an important part of their role today. The article notes that people may visit for live country music while also spending time with friends and neighbors. A familiar community gathering place can give residents a setting where local relationships continue to grow.

Live country music also creates an experience people can enjoy together. According to the article, songs may bring back memories of earlier dances, family celebrations, and evenings spent with friends. Country Dance Hall Expert Lorinda Baum provides insights featured in the article about the role these shared experiences play in community life.

The article describes country dancing as another way people participate rather than simply watch a performance. Beginners and longtime dancers can share the same floor while listening to the same music. This environment gives people of different experience levels an opportunity to take part together.

Dance floor etiquette helps support that shared environment. The article explains that dancers watch the people around them, respect available space, and move with the general flow of traffic. New dancers can also observe experienced participants to learn basic steps, timing, and expected behavior.

Community events give historic dance halls a purpose beyond regular nights of dancing. Weddings, anniversaries, reunions, benefits, and birthday celebrations can bring families and neighbors into the same space. When people celebrate important moments in one building over many years, that place can become part of family and community memories.

The article also examines why these spaces can remain meaningful as towns change. New homes, businesses, and entertainment options may arrive as communities grow. Historic gathering places can provide something familiar while connecting present-day residents with earlier local life.

Texas music traditions continue when people experience them firsthand, the article notes. Hearing a band perform while dancers move across a wooden floor creates a shared experience involving music, movement, and conversation. Those experiences allow traditions to continue through participation rather than memory alone.

The article explains that Texas dance halls remain useful because they continue serving people in the present. Their history provides context, while ongoing dances, celebrations, live music, and gatherings keep the spaces active. Country Dance Hall Expert Lorinda Baum's featured insights help illustrate how continued use can connect generations through familiar community traditions.

The article concludes that the lasting value of these spaces comes from people returning throughout different stages of life. Neighbors, families, musicians, and dancers build shared memories while keeping local traditions active for future generations.

Why Texas Dance Halls Remain Community Gathering Places features insights from Lorinda Baum, Country Dance Hall Expert of Temple, Texas, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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SQAIRZ ADDS BLACK AND WHITE COLORWAYS TO 2026 XRZ2™ PICKLEBALL FOOTWEAR LINE

New colors expand style options for SQAIRZ's performance-driven pickleball footwear platform

WINDHAM, N.H., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SQAIRZ, the biomechanically driven performance footwear company, today announced the addition of two new colorways to its popular 2026 XRZ2™ Pickleball line: Black and White, available beginning today at SQAIRZ.com. The new colors are available in both men's and women's shoes, joining four other color choices in both lines.

The two new looks expand the style choices available to pickleball players while also enabling them to take advantage of the performance benefits of SQAIRZ technology, including a patented roomier toe box that enables toes to spread naturally for improved stability, better balance during lateral movement, and sharper cuts on the court.

The XRZ2 also includes other features tailored to the movements and demands of pickleball, including four stability outriggers engineered to support lateral movement and rapid changes of direction; Blumaka® cushioning technology designed to provide cushioning and energy return; and Sta-Put™ traction to help players establish a secure connection with the court.

The XRZ line was designed in collaboration with repeat national pickleball champion Zane Navratil, who worked closely with the SQAIRZ team to create a shoe built specifically for the biomechanics of pickleball. A 2025 motion-capture study validated the benefits of the platform, reporting balance improvements compared with competing footwear brands.

"Pickleball players want performance, but they also want choice," said Robert Winskowicz, Founder and CEO of SQAIRZ. "Black and White are two classic court looks that work with virtually anything. Adding them to XRZ2 gives players two more ways to express their style while getting the same stability, traction and performance foundation the shoe was built to deliver."

The Black and White launch adds another chapter to SQAIRZ's continued expansion in pickleball, including strategic partnerships with Major League Pickleball's Chicago Slice, DUPR and Centerline Athletics.

About SQAIRZ

SQAIRZ designs biomechanically engineered performance footwear that helps athletes generate more power, stability and confidence from the ground up. Through patented technology and independent scientific validation, SQAIRZ footwear is engineered to improve balance, maximize ground-force transfer and enhance movement across golf, baseball, softball, and pickleball categories. For more information, visit https://sqairz.com/

SOURCE SQAIRZ

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Silverback Capital Launches Second Look Pricing Program for California Fix and Flip Investors

Limited-time program offers qualified California investors a 7.99% APR and 12-month term through October 31, 2026

FOLSOM, Calif., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Silverback Capital Inc. today announced its Second-Look Fix-and-Flip Pricing Program, created for California real estate investors who want to compare an existing lender's term sheet before accepting higher-cost financing.

Through October 31, 2026, qualified borrowers financing eligible California investment properties may receive a 7.99% APR with a 12-month term. The limited-time program is intended exclusively for business-purpose, non-owner-occupied fix-and-flip transactions.

Investors can send Silverback Capital an existing term sheet for a confidential, like-for-like review of the interest rate, lender points, fees, initial loan proceeds, rehabilitation holdback, leverage and estimated total financing cost.

"Investors should understand the complete cost of their financing before committing to a lender," said David Simmons, CEO of Silverback Capital Inc. "Our Second-Look Pricing Program gives borrowers an opportunity to compare the numbers clearly. Even a relatively small rate difference can have a meaningful effect on the profitability of a fix-and-flip project."

Eligible transactions may qualify for up to 90% of the initial acquisition cost, up to 100% of the approved rehabilitation budget and maximum leverage of 75% of the completed property value. Final leverage and terms depend on the borrower's experience, credit profile, property, budget, liquidity and underwriting requirements.

Silverback Capital offers same-day scenario reviews when complete information is provided and targets delivery of qualified term sheets within 24 hours.

California investors and brokers can request a confidential pricing review by calling 1-800-473-5132 or visiting:

https://silverback-capital.com/get-pre-qualified

About Silverback Capital Inc.

Silverback Capital Inc. provides private real estate financing for investors, builders and developers. Its programs include fix-and-flip, ground-up construction, development, bridge and DSCR rental loans. Silverback Capital combines experienced underwriting with responsive, relationship-driven service.

Media Contact

David Simmons

CEO, Silverback Capital Inc.

1-800-473-5132

[email protected]

SOURCE Silverback Capital

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Eschenbach Introduces New Consumer-Friendly Line of Hand-held Magnifiers Called ocularX

DANBURY, Conn., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-quality magnification and vision enhancing solutions for the visually impaired, has introduced a new line of economically priced, compact hand-held magnifiers called ocularX available to both professionals and consumers.

The ocularX magnifiers are manufactured in Germany for optics that produce a clear, sharp viewing experience and they are available in both illuminated and non-illuminated models. The ocularX M1 series of hand-held magnifiers feature LED Illumination making them ideal for viewing near objects like menus, books and labels, especially in dimly lit environments. Each magnifier features a clickable on/off button and requires only 1 AA battery for the light to function. The magnifiers are either round or rectangular depending on the magnification which is either 2x, 2.2x, 2.5x, 3.5x or 4.5x—a range of powers designed to meet the broad needs of a variety of individuals. The large, 2x rectangular magnifier lens also includes a 4x bifocal lens in the bottom left corner for viewing fine details while reading clothing tags or doing crafts.

The second series, ocularX M2, is a thin, folding pocket magnifier with an integrated case which protects the lens. This credit card sized magnifier is perfect for enlarging images on the go and is easy to travel with due to its ultra-thin design. The large (74 mm x 48 mm) rectangular lens provides a wide field of view and can be quickly folded away for safe keeping. With 2.5x magnification, it's perfect for reading everyday items like food packages, pill bottles or recipe books. Learn more at ocular-x.us.

About Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc.

Eschenbach is a world leader in the manufacture and distribution of high-quality magnification and vision-enhancing products that improve the safety, productivity, independence, and quality of life of its users. The company primarily offers its products to eyecare and vision rehab professionals for their provision to their patients who need them. Professionals have access to Eschenbach's customizable diagnostic assortments which include training and consultative support to ensure successful patient outcomes. For more information, please contact Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc. at (800) 487-5389 / [email protected] or visit www.eschenbach.com.

22 Shelter Rock Lane

Danbury, CT 06810

Phone: (800) 487-5389

Fax: (888) 799-7200

www.eschenbach.com

SOURCE Eschenbach Optik of America, Inc.

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HaloPlex redefines Body Weight Support for Real-World Movement.

VALENCIA, Calif., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bioness Medical, Inc. ("Bioness"), a leading provider of advanced rehabilitation technologies, today announced the commercial launch of HaloPlex™, an FDA-registered dynamic body weight support and fall protection system designed to accelerate physical rehabilitation for patients with severe gait and balance impairments.

HaloPlex extends the proven Vector Gait & Safety System® by combining dynamic body weight support, overhead fall protection, and multidirectional movement capabilities in a ceiling-mounted system. The technology unloads a programmed amount of patient body weight while providing continuous postural support, enabling patients to practice walking, balance activities, transfers, and functional mobility tasks more safely and with greater confidence throughout the therapy environment.

Designed for inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation centers, HaloPlex helps clinicians deliver earlier, higher-intensity mobility training while reducing the physical demands associated with gait rehabilitation. By allowing patients to move freely through a larger therapy space, the system supports more natural movement patterns and increased opportunities for task-specific rehabilitation.

"HaloPlex represents the next evolution of our body weight support technology portfolio," said Todd Cushman, Chief Executive Officer of Bioness Medical. "Built on the trusted Vector platform, HaloPlex expands what's possible in gait and balance rehabilitation by allowing patients to safely practice real-world mobility activities with multidirectional movement and overhead fall protection. As healthcare organizations continue investing in rehabilitation programs, they need more than innovative technology. They need a trusted partner that delivers clinical expertise, education, implementation support, and long-term program success."

The commercial launch of HaloPlex further strengthens the Bioness rehabilitation portfolio, which includes Vector, BITS® and BITS Functional Reality™, AURA™ (in development), PoNS®, L300 Go®, and H200 Wireless™ technologies. Together, these solutions help providers advance patient recovery, improve functional outcomes, and build comprehensive rehabilitation programs supported by Bioness' nationwide team of trained rehabilitation professionals. For additional information, please visit BionessMedical.com/haloplex.

About Bioness Medical

Bioness Medical is a leading provider of advanced rehabilitation technologies designed to restore mobility, function, and independence. Its portfolio spans functional electrical stimulation, body weight support systems, robotic gait training, neuromodulation, and interactive rehabilitation technologies that support clinicians and healthcare systems worldwide.

SOURCE Bioness Medical, Inc.

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Lithium carbonate agreement with an initial eight-year term agreed alongside an equity investment

Supports Bridge Green's U.S. and India scale-up and Hartree's position in U.S. battery recycling

NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridge Green Upcycle ("Bridge Green"), an urban-mining company recovering critical materials from End of Life & scrap lithium-ion batteries, and Hartree Partners ("Hartree"), a global energy and commodities trading firm, today announced they have entered into a lithium carbonate commercial agreement with an initial eight-year term valued at an estimated value $500 million to $1 billion at current market conditions. Hartree receives exclusive marketing rights for lithium carbonate produced by Bridge Green during the term. Hartree will purchase and market approximately 10,000 metric tons per year across all grades produced at Bridge Green facilities. The parties can renew the agreement for an additional seven years.

The agreement coincides with an equity investment by Hartree in Bridge Green's bridge financing round to fund Bridge Green's planned expansion of battery recycling and critical-mineral refining. Together, the transactions reflect Hartree's confidence in Bridge Green's technology, management team and its ability to scale domestic production of critical materials.

Bridge Green's Founder & CEO, Balki Iyer, said: "This agreement marks a defining milestone and a significant step towards developing a circular supply chain for Bridge Green. The scale and long term commitment by Hartree following a rigorous evaluation process, provides strong validation of our technology and business model. More importantly, this accelerates deployment to support the domestic need for critical minerals."

Hartree's Head of Battery and Critical Minerals, Landon Berns, said: "Critical minerals are a key pillar of Hartree's growth strategy, and securing domestic supply and returning recovered materials to productive use are core parts of our approach."

The agreement comes as governments treat lithium as a strategic commodity and seek more resilient supply chains for energy, manufacturing, technology, and defense. The U.S. remains import-reliant for more than 50% of its lithium supply, according to U.S. Geological Survey 2026 data. In February, the U.S. government announced Project Vault, a proposed $12 billion public-private Strategic Critical Minerals Reserve; Hartree was selected as a supplier, and this marketing agreement forms part of Hartree's effort to build that supply portfolio. On August 27, the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security enacted a one-year export ban on battery-recycling material, including black mass, requiring recyclers to allocate monthly volumes to U.S.-based counterparties, in an effort to retain critical minerals within the domestic supply chain. Against this backdrop, the agreement helps position Hartree to secure domestic access to lithium and build out a more resilient domestic critical mineral supply chain.

Bridge Green commissioned Circularity Center India in the second quarter of 2026, with nameplate capacity of approximately 7,200 metric tons per year of lithium-ion battery input. Proceeds from Bridge Green's upcoming Series A are intended to fund its planned fully integrated commercial refining facilities in the U.S. and India, with Hartree serving as the downstream marketing channel as they come online. The first lithium carbonate volumes under the Hartree agreement are projected in 2028.

About Bridge Green

Bridge Green Upcycle is an urban-mining company transforming waste into value, beginning with lithium-ion batteries. Bridge Green provides high quality critical minerals and second life Battery Systems through proprietary digital and materials technologies, by combining advanced recovery process, battery-health intelligence software and second-life BESS solutions to support a circular battery economy and more resilient critical-mineral supply.

About Hartree Partners

Hartree Partners, LP is a leading global merchant commodities firm facilitating the flow of energy, metals, agriculture, and environmental products across the full commodity supply chain, connecting producers and consumers. Hartree was founded in 1997 and is jointly owned by senior management and funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, LP, and employs around 5,000 individuals worldwide.

Media contact: [email protected] or [email protected]

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding planned facilities, production timing, policy measures, and estimated contract value, which are subject to change. The $500 million to $1 billion range is illustrative at current market conditions and depends on delivered volumes and prevailing prices; it is not a guarantee of revenue.

SOURCE Bridge Green Upcycle

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Meixin Brush Machinery: 38 Years of Expertise in Customization and Equipment Innovation

JIANGMEN, China, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Jiangmen Meixin Comb Brush Machinery Co., Ltd., a leading brush machine manufacturer in China, marks its 38th year of operations. By engineering automated production solutions for the global brush manufacturing industry, Meixin has secured a significant market share across Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Today, the company actively cooperates with clients worldwide, sustaining successful partnerships in countries such as Germany, the UK, Turkey, Brazil, Peru, and Kenya.

38 Years of Engineering and Manufacturing Experience

Founded in 1988, the company operates as a foundational pioneer in the domestic brush making machinery sector. One-third of the internal engineering staff applies over two decades of direct factory floor experience to daily design operations. This technical depth translates into numerous secured invention, utility, and design patents.

The engineering team consistently rolls out specialized units, including 2- to 5-axis brush tufting machines, brush drilling and tufting integrated machines, brush trimmers, and high-end custom brush-making machines. As a comprehensive China brush machine supplier, Meixin manufactures equipment lines for household cleaning brush items such as brooms, cleaning brushes, toilet brushes, ceiling brushes, and industrial brushes such as strip brushes, disc brushes, plate brushes, roller brushes, abrasive applications, and heavy-duty industrial applications. These production lines range from basic manual brush making machines to highly complex CNC brush machines.

Flexible Custom Production Capabilities

As a professional brush making machine manufacturer, Meixin resolves specific manufacturing bottlenecks through extensive OEM and ODM customization services aligned with individual client specifications. Whether an assembly line requires a high-volume broom making machine or a precise plastic brush making machine, the company executes complete equipment installation, debugging, and operator training.

To maintain strict quality control and an efficient processing cycle, an independent CNC processing department manages precise part processing for machines and critical spare parts, preparing for immediate dispatch. This robust pre-sales and after-sales support system is fully backed by 24/7 online technical assistance alongside professional on-site maintenance protocols for global manufacturing partners.

Every unit leaving the production floor undergoes 100% pre-dispatch testing to verify functional capabilities, safety, reliability, and durability. Technicians construct these systems using premium international components, integrating imported TBI precision ball screws, linear guides, Panasonic servo motors, and Italian brake motors to ensure long-term operational stability.

Innovative Automation and Equipment Upgrades

Meixin remains dedicated to driving industrial efficiency and output optimization. CEO Leo champions this operational philosophy, stating, "Make brush making simpler, prevent production from stagnating due to technical issues, and bring Meixin Brush Machinery to the world."

This commitment drives the continuous development of advanced automated brush making equipment, prominently featuring the 2-axis automatic broom machine introduced last year. The new-generation Meixin 2-Axis Brush Machine is designed to deliver efficient, stable, and automated brush production. With automatic conveying and auto changeover, one operator can easily manage multiple machines, helping reduce labor costs while maintaining high productivity. The optimized 2-axis control system also secures uniform hole positioning alongside consistent bristle insertion during extended production cycles of the broom manufacturing machine, effectively minimizing defect rates and guaranteeing stable, high-yield output.

Similar specialized equipment actively resolves regional manufacturing hurdles. For example, fully automatic no-dust broom making machines now operate extensively across India to meet local volume demands. The engineering team continues to introduce distinct mechanical configurations to systematically elevate global factory metrics:

- No-dust broom making machines: The hardware merges PP filament loading, conveying, flagging, gluing, and manual winding into a singular sequence, raising overall output by 80% compared to traditional hand-assembly methods.

- Mixed material production lines: Dedicated brush making machines handle special materials, including leather, cotton strips, and leather-based mixed plastic filaments.

- Industrial bristle removal equipment: Supporting sustainable recycling practices, this system efficiently strips old filaments from industrial bases and drastically reduces manual labor time. Operators can then reuse the core structures for secondary tufting.

About Meixin Brush Machinery

Jiangmen Meixin Comb Brush Machinery Co., Ltd. operates as a highly integrated trade enterprise and industrial brush machinery supplier. Meixin's production capabilities deliver reliable equipment such as the industrial brush machine, roller brush making machine, bottle brush making machine, and the standard toilet brush machine. Driven by a core commitment to bridging quality, service, and reliability, Meixin continuously empowers the global brush manufacturing industry while building lasting, win-win partnerships with clients worldwide.

Media Contact

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.mxbrushmachinery.com/

Address: Heqiao Kuiwei, Sanyi Industrial Zone, Siqian Town, Xinhui District, Jiangmen, Guangdong 529159, China

SOURCE Jiangmen Meixin Comb Brush Machinery Co., Ltd.

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