Shahrzad Rafati to give Keynote Address at IBC2016 Conference

LONDON - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- IBC announced today that Shahrzad Rafati, Founder & CEO of BroadbandTV, will deliver a keynote on Saturday 10 September at its forthcoming IBC2016 Conference.

Over the last 11 years BroadbandTV has become a powerful force in online video, and is the world’s largest Multi-platform Network. Built on technological expertise, Vancouver-based BBTV represents 16.2 bn monthly impressions with over 76,000 online video creators, providing a full suite of services and solutions including content distribution, technology, promotion, production, creative and design services, and monetisation opportunities in addition to niche value propositions for creators within each of its verticals.

BBTV also offers rights management services for media giants including the NBA, Viacom, Sony Pictures and FremantleMedia. Shahrzad, is an advocate of positive social change and a champion of entrepreneurism.

Shahrzad will talk about how BBTV is working across platforms and creating novel partnerships like the one with AOL’s Huffington Post to create a new kind of online video journalism network called Outspeak and NBA Playmakers, a groundbreaking community for video creators focused on basketball and basketball culture, in partnership with the NBA. She will also talk about how the younger YouTube generation interacts with technology and content and what this means for traditional broadcasting.

Entitled “Transformation in the Digital Era: Leadership, strategy and creativity in media and entertainment”, the conference will see more than 300 executives sharing insights on key issues at the heart of the entertainment, media and technology sector.

Additional information for editors:

The BroadbandTV network has amassed over 76,000 creators, who post about 500,000 new videos per month. It achieves 16.2 bn monthly impressions – making it the largest and fastest growing Multi-Platform Network (MPN) in the world.

In addition to BroadbandTV achievements, Shahrzad is the co-founder of the world’s first Chopra Yoga in partnership with Dr. Deepak Chopra and has investments in a broad portfolio of businesses.

Registration for IBC2016 is now open, with Early Bird discounts on all conference passes available until 15 July at IBC.org/register

About IBC

IBC is the premier annual event for professionals engaged in the creation, management and delivery of entertainment and news content worldwide. Attracting 55,000+ attendees from more than 170 countries, IBC combines a highly respected and peer-reviewed conference with an exhibition that exhibits more than 1,600 leading suppliers of state of the art electronic media technology and provides unrivalled networking opportunities.

About BroadbandTV

BroadbandTV is an innovative media and technology company that drives success for online video creators by leveraging its premium media brands, proprietary technology, and massive online reach. BroadbandTV operates the world’s largest Multi-Platform Network with over 76,000 network partners amassing 16.2 bn views per month. Its content creators span a number of key media brands including: TGN, the largest and most engaged gaming network on YouTube; Opposition, the largest hip-hop music network; number one Electronic Dance Music (EDM) network, WIMSIC; leading kids and family network, HooplaKidz and Outspeak, the next-generation citizen journalism brand in partnership with The Huffington Post. The business recently unveiled Windfall, a joint venture to find, develop and service music artists across all platforms, in partnership with BMG, and NBA Playmakers, a strategic partnership with the NBA to find, discover and develop creators focused on basketball culture. BroadbandTV has developed some of the most advanced and innovative technologies in the online video space: VISO NOVI, for detecting and managing fan uploaded content and VISO Catalyst for enhancing viewership and engagement for premium videos. In June 2013, the leading European entertainment network RTL Group acquired a majority stake in BroadbandTV. Both companies also formed an ongoing strategic partnership to accelerate the global growth strategy of BroadbandTV. RTL Group’s initial investment of US $36m is part of a planned series of investments in the company. Find out more at www.bbtv.com

IBC2016 Dates:

Conference: 8 - 12 September 2016
Exhibition: 9 - 13 September 2016

For more information visit IBC.org

Find out more about the IBC Conference – IBC.org/conference
Find out more about the IBC Exhibition – IBC.org/discovermore
Find out more about IBC Content Everywhere – IBCCE.org

Contacts

IBC

Liz Cox, Bubble & Squeak

E: liz.cox@bubblesqueak.agency

T: 07981 472844    









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18279/en

ACCA and CA ANZ agree landmark strategic alliance

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

ACCA, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, and CA ANZ, the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, have today announced a strategic alliance which will add value to members locally and globally.

The Alliance brings together the resources of the largest global professional accountancy body with one of the world’s pre-eminent CA bodies, enabling both organisations to strengthen their reach, relevance and resources for members. By sharing expertise across geographies and sectors the Alliance will ultimately create a stronger voice on behalf of its 788,000 current and next generation professional accountants, comprising of 308,000 members and 480,000 students across 181 countries.

Alexandra Chin, ACCA’s President said: ‘As the largest global professional accountancy body we represent the interests of members from around the world, and how we can deliver value to and for them. A significant part of this is looking to the future – 2020 and beyond – and how the profession needs to adapt to not only keep pace and remain relevant, but highlight its pivotal role in business success and the fast-moving global economy.

‘CA ANZ is a natural partner for ACCA sharing our commitment to upholding the highest ethical, professional and technical standards. We believe this alliance will increase the value we can provide members and strengthens our position to achieve our shared goals, navigating both the challenges and opportunities that we receive as a profession, and that our members encounter on a day-to-day basis.’

Darren Scammell, CA ANZ President said: ‘We are delighted to be progressing this alliance that allows continued growth and success of two highly regarded brands across the world. The Alliance will advance the cause of our members, the businesses they serve and the profession at large.

‘Members will benefit immediately from the Alliance, which marks the initial step in a valuable long term relationship as well as providing opportunities to advance public value, drive efficiency and better promote and support members.’

The Alliance will:

    Increase the profile of both brands worldwide through their combined and unrivalled network of global offices, and enhanced support to members and other stakeholders.

    Work on initiatives for the overall development and benefit of the profession and business world including joint research and events

    Provide access to resources, tools and educational products
    
    Provide an opportunity for dual membership of both bodies. ACCA members resident in Australia and New Zealand will be invited to apply for CA membership and CA ANZ members will be invited to apply for ACCA membership, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria of the other body

    Promote a strong proposition for accounting technicians globally to further widen access to the profession

The Alliance will offer a broader range of products and services to employers, as well as current and future members, ensuring they are truly future proofed. The Alliance is committed to upholding the highest ethical, professional and technical standards and to delivering public value in capital markets and economies around the world.

Notes to editors:

About ACCA

ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants. It offers business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management.

ACCA supports its 188,000 members and 480,000 students in 181 countries, helping them to develop successful careers in accounting and business, with the skills required by employers. ACCA works through a network of 95 offices and centres and more than 7,110 Approved Employers worldwide, who provide high standards of employee learning and development. Through its public interest remit, ACCA promotes appropriate regulation of accounting and conducts relevant research to ensure accountancy continues to grow in reputation and influence.

Founded in 1904, ACCA has consistently held unique core values: opportunity, diversity, innovation, integrity and accountability. It believes that accountants bring value to economies in all stages of development and seek to develop capacity in the profession and encourage the adoption of global standards. ACCA’s core values are aligned to the needs of employers in all sectors and it ensures that through its range of qualifications, it prepares accountants for business. ACCA seeks to open up the profession to people of all backgrounds and remove artificial barriers, innovating its qualifications and delivery to meet the diverse needs of trainee professionals and their employers. More information is here: www.accaglobal.com

About CA ANZ

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand is a professional body comprised of over 120,000 diverse, talented and financially astute members who utilise their skills every day to make a difference for businesses the world over.

Members are known for their professional integrity, principled judgment, financial discipline and a forward-looking approach to business which contributes to the prosperity of our nations.

We focus on the education and lifelong learning of our members, and engage in advocacy and thought leadership in areas of public interest that impact the economy and domestic and international capital markets.

We are a member of the International Federation of Accountants, and are connected globally through the 800,000-strong Global Accounting Alliance and Chartered Accountants Worldwide which brings together leading Institutes in Australia, England and Wales, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland and South Africa to support and promote over 320,000 Chartered Accountants in more than 180 countries.



Contacts

ACCA

Helen Thompson

Head of Public Relations, ACCA

Helen.Thompson@accaglobal.com / +44 (0)20 7059 5759



Julian Boram

Head of ACCA Australia & New Zealand

Julian.Boram@accaglobal.com / +61 2 8245 0225  



Sarah Tye

Lansons

saraht@lansons.com / +44 (0)20 7294 3620



CA ANZ

Sue Ashe

Senior Communications Manager, CA ANZ

sue.ashe@charteredaccountantsanz.com / +61 9080 5893



Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18273/en

AdaptiveMobile’s Signalling Protection Unveils Advanced SS7 GSMA Category 3 Threat Detection Capabilities

Unique threat detection based on continuous real-world data analysis from across five continents

DALLAS & DUBLIN - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AdaptiveMobile, the world leader in mobile network security, today announced advanced SS7 “Cat 3” detection capabilities including Network Memory, Location Plausibility, and Remote Intercept as part of its industry-leading Signalling Protection. Unique to AdaptiveMobile, the Company’s advanced threat detection is based on continuous data and analysis from AdaptiveMobile’s Threat Intelligence Unit, with all rules validated with information from across five continents.

“Customers are selecting AdaptiveMobile’s expertise as the telecoms industry begins to understand the SS7 threat landscape,” said Brian Collins, chief executive officer, AdaptiveMobile. “We remain at the forefront of SS7 Research, and this, combined with our unique experience of protecting global Tier 1 carrier core networks for over 10 years, means that we are seen as the trusted partner as SS7 security threats continue to evolve and emerge.”

AdaptiveMobile’s Signalling Protection Product secures the SS7 and LTE/Diameter networks using a unique combination of a carrier-grade signalling firewall, advanced analytics and the unique intelligence from working with nine of the top 10 operator groups to protect 1/5th of the world’s mobile subscribers. The solution builds on AdaptiveMobile’s market leading position in the mobile security industry to block current attacks on the network and to react to emerging threats that seek to bypass standard SS7 and Diameter firewall functionality.

About AdaptiveMobile

AdaptiveMobile is the world leader in mobile network security protecting over 1.5 billion subscribers worldwide and the only mobile security company offering products designed to protect all services on both fixed and mobile networks through in-network and cloud solutions. With deep expertise and a unique focus on network-to-handset security, AdaptiveMobile’s award winning security solutions provide its customers with advanced threat detection and actionable intelligence, combined with the most comprehensive security products available on the market today.

AdaptiveMobile was founded in 2004 and boasts some of the world’s largest mobile operators as customers and the leading security and telecom equipment vendors as partners. The Company is headquartered in Dublin with offices in North America, Europe, South Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific.    

Contacts

Press contacts:

ACSCom PR (USA)

Anne Coyle, +1 857-222-6363

adaptivemobile@acscompr.com



AxiCom (UK)

Daniel Beattie, +44 (0)20 8392 4050

adaptivemobile@axicom.com







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18268/en

Empirix to Optimize Customer Care Environments with Dedicated Analytics and Troubleshooting Capabilities

Empirix Customer Care delivers insight into customer service quality to accelerate problem resolution while optimizing the customer experience


SHANGHAI - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mobile World Congress - Empirix, Inc., the recognized leader in end-to-end network performance visibility with the unique ability to analyze customer behaviors by application in real time, today announced the launch of its Customer Care solution, a new addition to its Customer Experience Assurance (CEA) portfolio. The solution is designed for use by a service provider’s technical support staff, providing a simplified historical view of individual service experience for the entire customer base. The solution is actively in operation in a number of tier-1 mobile service providers today.

Within most service provider environments, the vast majority of customer care issues find their way to tier-2 or -3 network operations and engineering teams for resolution. But, with the volume of issues dramatically increasing due to growth in available data services and the proliferation of mobile device users, sustaining this model and resolving issues in a timely manner is becoming ever more difficult.

Deploying an effective and intuitive customer care solution in a customer service environment allows technical support or non-expert staff to troubleshoot basic customer-affecting problems. This enables technical support staff to handle a higher percentage of customer complaints and deliver better service from the customer perspective. This also results in an overall decrease in problem mean time to repair, reducing not only the operational expense involved in resolving customer-affecting issues but also the potential revenue lost as part of any service outage.

“The service assurance segment is evolving. Service providers now require service assurance solutions that provide greater levels of visibility—not only into their networks, but also into the services and vendor devices deployed,” said John D’Anna, CEO of Empirix. “But the real change lies in the drive to provide specific insight into the customer base, resulting in information which can empower service providers to enhance their service capabilities as well as reduce churn.”

“As communication service providers (CSP) strive to create competitive differentiation based on superior customer experience, they are increasingly demanding software solutions that can empower customer facing departments such as customer care to quickly resolve service impacting issues. With the introduction of the Customer Care solution, Empirix is addressing this market demand and is well positioned to help accelerate CSPs’ Customer Experience Management (CEM) strategy.”

About Empirix:

Empirix is the recognized leader in end-to-end network performance visibility with the unique ability to analyze customer behaviors by application in real time. We help service providers, mobile operators, contact centers and businesses master complexities and optimize business processes to reduce operational costs, maximize customer retention and grow top-line revenue. Through testing, monitoring, analytics and intelligence, Empirix helps companies around the world realize the full value of their technology investments. Empirix was acquired in 2013 by private equity firm Thoma Bravo as the first step in an aggressive strategy to take advantage of growth opportunities in the network services industry. The company is creating a comprehensive portfolio of end-to-end network service assurance solutions that will offer customers an integrated performance management solution in an otherwise fragmented market.

Empirix is a trademark of Empirix Inc. in the United States and other countries.

Contacts

Empirix, Inc.

Bob Laliberte, +1 978-313-7344

Senior Director of Marketing

rlaliberte@empirix.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18271/en

Fenergo Enriches CRS Compliance Solution with Enhanced Rules & Remediation

 Fenergo solution aims to reduce complexity and operational burden of CRS and FATCA requirements

DUBLIN & NEW YORK - Thursday, June 30th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Fenergo, the leading provider of Client Lifecycle Management solutions, has today announced the launch of an enhanced version of its Fenergo Tax Compliance solutions with richer rules content, remediation and reporting functionality to reduce operational overheads and improve global compliance with tax regulations.

Fenergo’s Tax Compliance suite provides a rules-driven process to identify reportable accounts and perform due diligence for every client and account, providing data capture and classification obligations for CRS and FATCA.

Currently being implemented by a number of clients, the enhanced solution addresses a number of specific challenges posed by CRS for financial institutions. Fenergo’s Regulatory Rules Engine has been updated to incorporate intricate jurisdictional-specific rules that ensure complete CRS compliance with all nuances of implementation of CRS for each country.

“Where FATCA was the game changer in tax compliance, the Common Reporting Standard promises to go way beyond FATCA’s remit to ensure global-wide tax compliance,” explains Laura Glynn, Fenergo Global Manager of Regulatory Affairs. “The global lack of harmonization of rules is worrying for financial institutions. Asia, in particular, poses an acute challenge given the fact that they must ensure compliance with 40+ regulators across the region. This is a huge operational undertaking forcing financial institutions to be able to manage each of the rules from every jurisdiction. Even where no obligation to report exists, accounts may still require reporting by the local tax authority to other tax jurisdictions. Therefore, CRS classification needs to be known for this purpose and extend to all accounts and entities”.

With the biggest CRS operational burden expected to be in the remediation and classification of pre-existing accounts, Fenergo has enhanced its rules-driven Remediation Master Case Management and Workflow functionality, designed to simplify the remediation process and maintain and track an easily identifiable subset of entity remediation cases through to completion. The solution is capable of re-using data and documentation collected for other purposes (e.g. KYC, FATCA), which speeds up the time it takes to achieve tax compliance with CRS, and, ultimately, onboard clients faster. “Financial institutions are looking for a trusted partner that will help them comply with all global tax requirements efficiently as possible, added Glynn. “With a team of regulatory analysts actively tracking the changing regulatory and tax landscape, in addition to guidance from our client regulatory forums, Fenergo translates this data into real value-added solutions. Fenergo’s latest enhancements in our Tax Compliance suite of solutions are designed to remove the complexity of tax compliance and provide financial institutions with a roadmap that future-proofs them against future changes”.

Fenergo’s latest whitepaper, CRS: Remediation & Reporting, can be downloaded from its website www.fenergo.com.

About Fenergo (www.fenergo.com):

Fenergo is a leading provider of Client Lifecycle Management software solutions for investment, corporate and private banks. Its solutions help institutions to efficiently manage the end-to-end regulatory onboarding and entity data management processes. Its rules-driven solution ensures compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks and supports the collection, centralization and sharing of client and counterparty data and documentation across the institution. By expediting compliance and improving operational efficiencies, Fenergo’s solutions can onboard clients faster, improve time to revenue and overall client experience. Fenergo’s recent accolades include: Best Compliance Product (Sell-Side Technology Awards 2016), FinTech Forward Company to Watch (American Banker, 2015), Chartis RiskTech100® (2016 and 2015) and Best Enterprise Data Management Initiative (Inside Reference Data, 2014).    

Contacts

Fenergo

Fiona McLoughlin

VP Marketing

T: +35319013600

E: fiona.mcloughlin@fenergo.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18272/en

Waldorf Astoria Partners with Golf Digest to Launch Exclusive Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences

Luxury Brand Adds Exclusive Golf Itineraries to Collection of Brand-Wide, Guest-Focused Initiatives

MCLEAN, Va. - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts today announced the launch of Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences, a collection of once-in-a-lifetime packages that pair the most elite golf experiences with luxury accommodations at select Waldorf Astoria hotels beginning in August. The annual program will visit new destinations each year, with the inaugural year debuting at four properties: Waldorf Astoria Chicago, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh, Waldorf Astoria New York, and Waldorf Astoria Orlando.

Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences are curated exclusively for the most distinguished golf enthusiasts by Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts in partnership with Golf Digest. Each package offers access to one of the world’s most discriminating fairways named in Golf Digest’s “100 Greatest Golf Courses,” access to the magazine’s top pro-golf editors, VIP amenities, and exceptional itineraries, as well as a stay at one of Waldorf Astoria’s iconic properties featuring the brand’s unparalleled True Waldorf Service. Each participating destination will be exclusive to the first 16 guests who book the package (four groups of four), with the exception of Waldorf Astoria New York, which will accept the first 11 guests who book the package.

"In launching the Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences, Waldorf Astoria guests now have access to several of the most exclusive golf courses and itineraries that are nearly impossible to book otherwise," said John T.A. Vanderslice, global head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. “Giving our guests the access to book these bespoke offerings – from a brand they already trust to exceed their expectations – further positions Waldorf Astoria as a leader in guest service and unforgettable experiences.”

The Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences’ packages feature one full day of golf, a two-night stay and an “Inside the Ropes Bull & Bear Dinner” at participating Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. Pricing for the packages begin at $3,999 per player*, based on single occupancy, and include:

    Welcome cocktail reception with Custom Putter Fitting by Toulon Design
    In-room amenities
    Private group breakfast briefing prior to golf outing with roundtrip luxury transport between the property and the golf club
    Course briefing by a PGA Golf Pro at the club including caddy assignment
    18 holes of golf including lunch, beverages, and post-round cocktails
    Pro Shop Gift Card of $100
    Private “Inside the Ropes Bull & Bear Dinner” hosted by a Golf Digest senior editor

The golf program will tee off in 2016 at four of Waldorf Astoria's 27 properties, with bookings available starting Wednesday, June 22, including:

    Waldorf Astoria Chicago, August 18-20 at an undisclosed private course on Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses
    Tee Time: Friday, August 19
    Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh, September 21-23 at Carnoustie Golf Links
    Tee Time: Thursday, September 22
    Waldorf Astoria New York, September 28-30 at an undisclosed private course on Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses
    Tee Time: Thursday, September 29
    Waldorf Astoria Orlando, October 21 – 23 at Streamsong Red (Ranked #100 on Golf Digest’s America’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses)
    Tee Time: Saturday, October 22

For guests who want to begin their own golf story with Waldorf Astoria, the Waldorf Astoria Golf Experience package is available today through December 31, 2016, allowing avid and amateur golfers to play at participating properties, and includes a $150 golf credit per two-night stay.

These newly-launched experiences follow Waldorf Astoria’s commitment to deliver unparalleled experiences through its existing brand-wide programs: Waldorf Astoria Unforgettable Experiences, an initiative introduced in 2015 to highlight truly bespoke offerings from each of the brand’s 27 properties worldwide; Waldorf Astoria Driving Experiences, a driving program that offers guests the unique opportunity to get behind-the-wheel of select supercars; Taste of Waldorf Astoria, a partnership with the James Beard Foundation and Waldorf Master Chefs to find the next iconic dish; and the recently launched Taste of Waldorf Astoria Unforgettable Experiences, a collection of experiential gastronomic packages that allow guests to embark on their own Taste of Waldorf adventures around the world.

For more information about Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences, please visit www.waldorfastoria.com/golf or call 1-800-WALDORF (1-800-925-3673).

Follow these Waldorf Astoria Golf Experiences on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with the hashtags #WaldorfMoment #WaldorfGolf. For more information about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.waldorfastoria.com or http://news.waldorfastoria.com.

Terms & Conditions:
*For each experience, four foursomes of four will be permitted to book, equaling 16 players total per course with the exception of the Waldorf New York package in which 11 spots are available. The third foursome will be filled by the Golf Digest Pro. Price is per person based on foursome (no single supplement).

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a portfolio of 27 landmark destinations, each being a true reflection of their surroundings in the world’s most sought after locations. Unified by their inspirational environments and unparalleled guest service, Waldorf Astoria creates unique authentic moments through the delivery of True Waldorf Service. Personal concierges deliver unparalleled, bespoke service from the moment a guest books through check out. Waldorf Astoria is a part of Hilton Worldwide, a leading global hospitality company. Experience Waldorf Astoria by booking at www.waldorfastoria.com. Check out our social media channels @WaldorfAstoria (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook), and learn more about this expanding portfolio by visiting http://news.waldorfastoria.com.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, comprised of more than 4,600 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties with more than 758,000 rooms in 100 countries and territories. For 96 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of 13 world-class global brands includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Golf Digest

Golf Digest is the world’s most widely-read golf publication and the authority on how to play, what to play and where to play. Golf Digest’s aim is to enhance the enjoyment of all facets of the game — making its readers better players, smarter consumers and more discerning travelers, while also offering the kind of informative and provocative stories that fuel the unending conversation that is golf. Golf Digest’s mantra is THINK YOUNG/PLAY HARD, a philosophy that defines both the magazine’s readers and editorial alike. Golf Digest is part of Golf Digest Companies, which includes Golf World and GolfDigest.com. For more information, go to www.golfdigest.com and stay connected on Twitter by following @GolfDigestMag.    

Contacts

John Walls

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

john.walls@hilton.com

+1-703-883-5232



Christi Cahill

For Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts

WaldorfAstoria@smapr.com

+1-212-957-3005    







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18265/en

New GSMA Report Predicts Chinese IoT Market Will Exceed One Billion Connections by 2020, Underpinned by Licensed Low Power, Wide Area Market

 Low Power, Wide Area Connections Driving Huge Market Growth in China; GSMA’s Mobile IoT Initiative Helping Mobile Operators to Accelerate Commercial Solutions

SHANGHAI - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- China’s machine-to-machine (M2M) market will reach one billion connections by 2020, with the majority coming from the developing Low Power, Wide Area (LPWA) market, according to a new report released today by GSMA Intelligence and The China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT). The report, ‘Mobile Operators and Digital Transformation’, highlights that China is currently the world’s largest M2M market with approximately 100 million cellular M2M connections, a figure that is expected to increase to 350 million by 2020. However, an additional 730 million connections will be enabled by LPWA technology, taking the total figure to just over one billion. By 2025, it is expected that 50 per cent of the world’s 28 billion connected devices will be suitable for connection by LPWA networks.

“With government support, China has quickly become the world’s largest M2M market, and LPWA will play a fundamental part of its future growth, presenting new opportunities for key industry sectors and for operators to provide connectivity across the country,” said Alex Sinclair, Chief Technology Officer, GSMA. “The GSMA’s Mobile IoT Initiative is working with China’s mobile network operators to deliver commercial LPWA solutions in licensed spectrum to accelerate adoption and transform the development of the Internet of Things in areas such as agriculture, automotive and utilities.”

LPWA networks are designed for M2M applications that have low data rates, require long battery lives and operate unattended for long periods of time, often in remote locations. The GSMA Mobile IoT Initiative has coalesced the industry behind global technology standards in licensed spectrum for the LPWA market, which have now been published by 3GPP. Three complementary technologies – Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT), EC-GSM-IOT and LTE Machine Type Communication (LTE-MTC) – will cover all LPWA use cases, ensuring customer choice and helping the IoT market to flourish.

Licensed LPWA networks complement and extend conventional wide area networks, which make use of 2G and 4G cellular technologies, as well as local area networks such as WiFi, Bluetooth and Zigbee. These licensed standards allow operators to optimise their existing mobile network infrastructure through an upgrade to EC-GSM-IoT for 2G networks and LTE-MTC for LTE networks, while NB-IoT can use both 2G and 4G spectrum. Backed by 36 global mobile operators, device makers and chipset, module and infrastructure companies, the GSMA Mobile IoT initiative is working to accelerate the development of LPWA solutions and is supporting multiple global pilots with full commercial solutions expected in market later this year.

LPWA at Mobile World Congress Shanghai

There will a number of demonstrations of LPWA technology at the GSMA Innovation City at Mobile World Congress Shanghai, located in Hall N3 (Stands A38 and E37) at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. Visitors will be able to experience how LPWA networks in licenced spectrum are connecting up everything from pets to street lighting. It will be open during Mobile World Congress Shanghai exhibition hours from Wednesday, 29 June through Friday, 1 July. For more information, visit www.mwcshanghai.com/innovation-city/. The GSMA will also host an IoT Summit on Thursday, 30 June at The Kerry Hotel, Shanghai where delegates will hear from leading industry experts on the latest on Mobile IoT industry applications and technologies. For more information or to register, please visit www.gsma.com/connectedliving/events/.

Get Involved at Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2016

For more information on the 2016 Mobile World Congress Shanghai, including how to attend, exhibit, partner or sponsor, visit www.mwcshanghai.com. Follow developments and updates on Mobile World Congress Shanghai through our social media channels – follow us on Twitter at @GSMA and use #MWCS16, get regular updates through our LinkedIn Showcase Page at www.linkedin.com/company/mobile-world-congress-shanghai, and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mwcshanghai. In China, you can follow us on Sina Weibo http://weibo.com/mwcshanghai or on the GSMA account on WeChat. For additional information on GSMA social channels, visit www.mwcshanghai.com/register-plan/networking/social-media.

To download the GSMA Intelligence report, ‘Mobile operators and digital transformation’ please follow this link.

-ENDS-

About the GSMA

The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, uniting nearly 800 operators with almost 300 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organisations in adjacent industry sectors. The GSMA also produces industry-leading events such as Mobile World Congress, Mobile World Congress Shanghai and the Mobile 360 Series conferences.

For more information, please visit the GSMA corporate website at www.gsma.com. Follow the GSMA on Twitter: @GSMA.    

Contacts

For the GSMA

Ava Lau

+852-2533 9928

alau@webershandwick.com



Charlie Meredith-Hardy

+44 7917 298428

CMeredith-Hardy@webershandwick.com



GSMA Press Office

pressoffice@gsma.com





Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18270/en

BBPOS Chipper 2X – A Compact Plug and Play mPos Device, Perfect for SME Merchants

HONG KONG - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Leading mPOS product innovator and manufacturer BBPOS recently announced its new superior ChipperTM2X mPOS device.

The product can process a variety of card formats including EMV chip cards, magnetic stripe cards and NFC cards as well as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay. It is fully certified including EMV L1 & L2, EMV Contactless L1, PBOC 3.0 L1 & L2, VISA PayWave, MasterCard PayPass, AMEX ExpressPay and Discover Contactless.

ChipperTM2X’s integrated 3.5mm audio jack and USB connections allow maximum flexibility and convenience for plugin to laptops, tablets and mobile phones. With compact dimensions (62.9 x 59.1 x 18.6mm/2.48 x 2.33 x .73”) and an approximate weight of 2.7oz (76g), its portable design ensures it can be easily carried by merchants and utilized for varying requirements such as pay at the table delivery, fast food or popup store environments. The product also has an extended battery life with the capability of being used approximately 700 times before charging via micro USB.

The ChipperTM2X with the Chipper Cap accessory makes the ChipperTM2X a standalone device with an LCD display with Bluetooth capabilities allowing integration to existing POS Systems and traditional POS terminals.

The future of mPOS is the ChipperTM2X – a cost effective solution with convenient over-the-air remote firmware updating and key injection allowing a faster and more convenient user experience.

About BBPOS

BBPOS was founded in 2008 and is an electronic payment solution provider headquartered in Hong Kong with regional offices in San Jose, Miami, London, Singapore and Shanghai. The business invented the mobile payment audio jack at a time when smart phones were in their infancy. Today, the company is respected as a leading innovator, designer, and manufacturer of end-to-end mobile POS solutions, serving key sectors including mobile merchants, retail, hospitality, delivery, transport and government.

The company’s world-class engineering team has developed a family of innovative POS devices delivering quality solutions while implementing the highest security standards. Products are designed with the flexibility to securely manage any transaction, in any environment, anywhere in the world. In March 2016, BBPOS was ranked 6th among 212 global payment industry players with a high score of 70 by mPOS tracker.

BBPOS

www.bbpos.com

ChipperTM2X

http://bbpos.com/files/bbproducts/8-Chipper_2_or_2X_Catalogue_22052015.pdf

Contacts

BBPOS

Gloria Chan, +852-3907-0305

gloria.chan@bbpos.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18266/en

Camusat Connects for Its Client a Village of 5,000 Inhabitants in Madagascar Thanks to Its Low Cost Rural Solution

PARIS - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Camusat, one of the market leaders in developing telecom infrastructures, is pleased to reveal the results of the first site implemented in Madagascar using its rural solution.

Installed and commissioned in 5 days, this 100% solar powered and non-concrete telecom site enables Camusat’s mobile operator client to link an unconnected village of 5,000 inhabitants to mobile networks.

With this field-proven and turnkey solution, Camusat addresses MNOs’ challenge to connect anyone, anywhere at any time, by providing reliable broadband service with minimal expense, leveraging its local presence as well as long-lasting experience.
This low cost solution can include voice, SMS, Wi-Fi, Data and mobile banking services as well as remote monitoring by Camusat GNOC on a 24x7 basis, all resulting in low opex and maintenance and zero emission. Thanks to its valuable partnership with satellite operators, Camusat can also provide satellite connection as an option, extending thus the limits of its clients ‘markets.

Through this solution, Camusat demonstrates once again its willingness to make the world exchange and empower people offering them better access to services, contributing to the economic growth of all regions while controlling the environmental impact: an all-in-one concept that helps MNOs shaping a better and greener future for communities all over the world.

About Camusat:

CAMUSAT is one of the market leaders in the implementation of telecom infrastructures and one of the most experienced network developers with a history which starts back in the late 40’s Our committed mission is to help the telecom actors to efficiently build and optimize their networks development by integrating the traditional telecom technologies with the most innovative know-how from adjoining fields. Our R&D Department develops innovative infrastructure solutions. Integration of quality-proofed technologies and services, as well as proficient project management skills and flexibility have played a crucial part in our success today. Diversity is another key success factor. Motivating incentive plans, strong team spirit, constant professional training, international mobility and efficiency are our strengths in achieving our client’s high standard requirements. Camusat’s headquarters are located in Paris, France. Nearly half of Camusat's 2000 employees work on the African continent. The company operates on the five continents with over 40 subsidiaries.

For further information:

www.camusat.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camusat/
LinkedIn: https://fr.linkedin.com/company/camusat
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3k0EyqTVU8QggtBzO5UfQ

Contacts

Camusat

Press contact:

Christelle Reist

creist@camusat.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18269/en

Dimension Data and A.S.O. Unveil Next Generation Digital Technologies and Applications for Tour de France

Dimension Data delivers immersive end-user experience with significant enhancements to big data cycling analytics platform

PARIS - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Dimension Data and Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.) today announced significant enhancements to the big data cycling analytics platform that will deliver real-time information to viewers, commentators and teams at the 2016 Tour de France.

Headlining the innovations is Race Center, a web-based application hosted on Dimension Data’s cloud platform and developed in partnership with A.S.O. that combines live race data, video, photographs, social media feeds, and race commentary which combines with a new live tracking website to give viewers an immersive digital experience that goes beyond the television coverage of the race.

Race Center will become A.S.O.’s digital hub of the Tour de France going forward. And the Live Tracking website is testament to the evolution of Dimension Data’s real-time big data collection, analytics and digital platforms over the past 12 months.

Viewers will be able to get far richer and more accurate information from each of the 198 riders in 22 teams, including speed, distance between riders, composition of the race pelotons, wind speed and direction, as well as prevailing weather conditions.

Many of the new technologies that were trialled at last year’s race are now production-ready, and feature significant improvements across the board. This year the telemetry sensors installed under each rider’s seat that are responsible for transmitting live data boast a tenfold increase in transmission range. This means far fewer dropouts or ‘gaps’ in the data, resulting in more seamless communication and continuity throughout the race.

Dimension Data’s big data truck has also been upgraded and enlarged to accommodate the various television graphics, race coordination, data capture and analytics teams responsible for delivering the complete end-to-end data solution at the 2016 Tour de France. This is one of the biggest changes from last year, where each team worked separately, and continues the theme of collaboration and data integration made possible by the advancements in the technologies on display.

Adam Foster, Dimension Data’s Group Executive, Sports Practice said, “The enhancements to this year’s solutions means we can tell richer and more enhanced stories as they happen, giving viewers, the media, cycling fans and race commentators deeper insights into some aspects of the sport that weren’t available until now. This year, we’re working with a much broader palette, which means access to more meaningful race data, race routes, riders and current weather conditions. What’s exciting this year is the ability to deliver all this information to A.S.O. through a unified digital platform. This makes the quality of the data even more valuable for viewer engagement, and speaks directly to a generation of younger viewers who rely on new technologies such as social media and live video to engage with their world.”

Christian Prudhomme, Director of the Tour de France, A.S.O said the unprecedented growth in different social channels such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and live video at last year’s race demanded these technologies be embraced and enhanced for modern viewers.

“The Tour de France is a flagship event in a modern world, and it’s only natural that we give our viewers access to as much quality content, entertainment and analysis as possible through the media they use every day,” said Prudhomme. “Together with Dimension Data we’ve been working on new ways to appeal to our billions of viewers, and we’re excited to showcase the result of our efforts through Race Center.”

“I believe the appeal of having access to multiple real-time video, social media and live race information from one responsive and intuitive interface will greatly enhance the quality of coverage of the Tour de France, and become an essential companion to the largest live televised event in the world.”

Visit Dimension Data’s Tour de France microsite
Watch the video, download the infographic
Follow us on @letourdata for live race data updates

View this news release and multimedia online at:

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160629005084/en

Contacts

Dimension Data

Hilary King, +2782 414 9623

Global PR Manager

hilary.king@dimensiondata.com



or

Amaury Bodin, +33 (0)6 07 02 42 17

A.S.O press officer

abodin@aso.fr







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18255/en

New GSMA Report Finds Global Mobile Customers Seeking Feature-Rich, IP-Based Messaging Services from Operators

 New Report Highlights Growing Demand for Operator-led Advanced Communications Services Such as Pre-Calling, Instant Messaging and Real-time Video

SHANGHAI - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Global mobile subscribers are demanding richer, global and open IP-based messaging experiences from mobile network operators, according to a new report called ‘The Future of Mobile Communications,’ released today by the GSMA. The research, which was commissioned by the GSMA and conducted by research firm Context Consulting, surveyed 4,045 participants from China, India, Spain and the United States about their use of traditional mobile operator voice and SMS services, as well as internet-based messaging services. It highlighted strong interest in new advanced mobile operator-led messaging services such as pre-calling, instant messaging, live video and real-time photo or file sharing, which are enabled by Rich Communications Services (RCS) and voice over LTE (VoLTE) and work natively on any device and network without the need to download an app. Operator-led services were preferred to existing popular internet-based messaging services, with 79 per cent of people surveyed saying such a service would be relevant to them and 89 per cent regarding them as unique.

“Although internet-based messaging services are incredibly popular, they are siloed and closed, requiring users to download an app that their contacts might not be on. Mobile operators have an important role to play in offering evolved, secure and reliable messaging services that are interoperable, universal and work directly from any device and on any network,” said Alex Sinclair, Chief Technology Officer, GSMA. “Operators must meet this demand for advanced communications services by deploying RCS and VoLTE, which, when connected with other operators, allows users to reach anybody on any network and provides incredible messaging experiences.”

Demand for Operator Services

The report highlights that consumers are looking for a single, feature-rich communications service they can use to reach all of their contacts. Operator-led advanced communications services were preferred to internet-based services because they built on the existing features of internet messaging apps, but provided innovative new features such as pre-calling. Across the four markets, respondents were enthusiastic about the ability to indicate that a call was important and even be able to highlight the subject of the call. Respondents also singled out support for one-to-one chat and the ability to use the same voice calling service over mobile networks and Wi-Fi networks as attractive features.

Operator Advantage and Strategy

The report highlights that a mobile operator, although unlikely to charge consumers directly for IP-based communications services, could still see substantial financial benefits of up to US$5 billion between 2015 and 2020 for operators in developed markets, according to GSMA Intelligence figures. The enterprise market is predicted to be the main driver for this increase, as well as new product and service innovations, such as conversational commerce which enables users to complete transactions within the messaging service.

There are currently 456 LTE networks worldwide, 48 of which support VoLTE, and 47 operators in 34 countries have launched RCS services to date. As a result, nearly half a billion people globally are interconnected using these advanced communications services. The study underscores the strategic importance of advanced communications services to mobile operators in maintaining strong relations with subscribers, which can be further enhanced as networks are interconnected, enabling people to use services across different networks and devices. The report also argues that there are opportunities for operators with trusted brands to position their advanced communications services as safer and more private than those of the internet players.

Drive for Open and Interoperable Ecosystem

The GSMA is also working with global operators and OEMs on an initiative to enable all operators worldwide to provide an open, consistent and globally interoperable messaging service across Android devices. A common and universal RCS profile will allow mobile operators to deploy a consistent RCS implementation, feature set, and configuration and provide access to services such as group chat and high-res photo sharing. The universal profile can be implemented by other operating systems and will be supported by a formal GSMA accreditation process. The initiative is supported by 57 number of global operators and OEMS.

GSMA Network 2020 Summit at Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2016

The GSMA is also hosting the Network 2020 Summit today at Mobile World Congress Shanghai. The programme will include a number of seminars and interactive debates covering topics such as how 5G can create social and economic value and how RCS can be monetised, as well as the journey to an all-IP network.

For more information on the GSMA’s work with mobile operators and RCS please go to: http://www.gsma.com/network2020/all-ip-news/. To download the ‘Future of Communications’ report please go to: http://www.gsma.com/newsroom/wp-content/uploads//18083_GSMA_Report_for_Shanghai_LR.pdf.

Get Involved at Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2016

For more information on the 2016 Mobile World Congress Shanghai, visit www.mwcshanghai.com. Follow developments and updates on Mobile World Congress Shanghai through our social media channels – follow us on Twitter at @GSMA and use #MWCS16, get regular updates through our LinkedIn Showcase Page at www.linkedin.com/company/mobile-world-congress-shanghai, and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mwcshanghai. In China, you can follow us on Sina Weibo http://weibo.com/mwcshanghai or on the GSMA account on WeChat. For additional information on GSMA social channels, visit www.mwcshanghai.com/register-plan/networking/social-media.

-ENDS-

About the GSMA

The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, uniting nearly 800 operators with almost 300 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organisations in adjacent industry sectors. The GSMA also produces industry-leading events such as Mobile World Congress, Mobile World Congress Shanghai and the Mobile 360 Series conferences.

For more information, please visit the GSMA corporate website at www.gsma.com. Follow the GSMA on Twitter: @GSMA.    

Contacts

Media:

For the GSMA

Ava Lau, +852-2533 9928

alau@webershandwick.com



or

Charlie Meredith-Hardy, +44 7917 298428

CMeredith-Hardy@webershandwick.com



or

GSMA Press Office

pressoffice@gsma.com





Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18260/en

Nashwa Al Ruwaini Discusses Business Expansion for the Pyramedia Group at the Investment Summit in Washington D.C. Attended By Barak Obama

Washington D.C. - Wednesday, June 29th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

Pyramedia Group CEO Nashwa Al Ruwaini attended the Select USA Investment Summit at the Washington Hilton to discuss opportunities of collaboration between the Pyramedia group of companies and business organizations in the USA.  The biggest economic event of its kind in North America, this investment summit, attended by high level delegates, government officials and business personalities is a platform that brings together companies and high-level government officials from all over the world to facilitate business investments.

Al Ruwaini, who was invited by the government of USA to attend this event along with the representatives of the private sector in the UAE, spoke about the unique opportunity such an event presents for businesses. “This event facilitates an international dialogue between businesses, economic development professionals, service providers and government leaders from across the globe. It is a unique platform for the Pyramedia Group which is currently expanding its operations across the globe, to meet with potential partner companies based in the USA” she said.

When asked about the specific goals for Pyramedia’s participation, Al Ruwaini explained that this was in line with the company’s strategic vision for the future. “Successfully managing a portfolio of businesses in diverse sectors within Middle-East, we saw the necessity to diversify and expand our international presence, to strengthen our international partnerships and broaden our focus to one that is increasingly global. Naturally United States has been our first geographical focus, due to many benefits for Foreign Direct Investments, its business-friendly environment, attractive/stable market and cultivating sources of innovation in different fields. Our aim is to invest in small- and medium-sized businesses, aligned with our exciting portfolio or a potential affiliate for our strategic expansions with the objective of achieving long-term capital appreciation, and contributing to economic growth and prosperity”.


The Pyramedia Group of companies includes subsidiaries that are already active in the media, heath care and beauty industries. And we discussed investments with global entities across those sectors that we already operate in and our future investment that include real estate, retail, pharmaceuticals, biotech and agribusiness industries” she said.

The two day summit hosted by the Honorable Penny Pritzker, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, was also attended by many other eminent personalities such as the Honorable President of the United States, Barack Obama and Honorable Secretary of State, John Kerry in addition to numerous heads of multinational companies and government officials from more than 70 international markets. The summit discussions this year focused on the use of innovation, technology, global partnerships and access to capital for businesses with the aim to augment international business opportunities.

Contacts

Peter Glore

7044 449 2 971+

peter@pyramedia.biz









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18264/en

Samsung Galaxy S7 Embarks OT’s Latest Generation eSE

COLOMBES, France - Tuesday, June 28th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- OT (Oberthur Technologies), a leading global provider of embedded security software products, services and solutions today announced that PEARL by OT®, its state-of-the-art NFC embedded Secure Element (eSE) is equipped in the Samsung Galaxy S7.

PEARL by OT® is the most advanced multi-application eSE on the market. It offers a yet unattained level of security, the largest memory on the market and the latest NFC capabilities. Certified by all major payment schemes for mobile payment, PEARL by OT® offers a banking-grade level of security thanks to its EAL5+ and EMVCo certified component. It is also the best eSE to address the fragmented market of transport systems throughout the world thanks to the support of all major transport standards. Beyond payment and transit applications, this all-in-one eSE also allows easy deployment of secure governmental and automotive applications, as well as secure access to online services for enterprise and consumer markets.

PEARL by OT® is the safest possible place to store secret information and execute sensitive applications.

“We are very pleased by the strong and privileged relationship developed with Samsung over several years” said Marek Juda, Managing Director of OT's Connected Device Makers business. “OT is fully committed to support Samsung in the deployment of innovative and secure mobile services, such as Samsung Pay in Europe. This motivated our decision in 2015 to open a new R&D center dedicated to security technologies for smartphones and other connected devices in Seoul, Korea”.

ABOUT OBERTHUR TECHNOLOGIES

OT is a world leader in embedded digital security that protects you when you connect, authenticate or pay.

OT is strategically positioned in high growth markets and offers embedded security software solutions for “end-point” devices as well as associated remote management solutions to a huge portfolio of international clients, including banks and financial institutions, mobile operators, authorities and governments, as well as manufacturers of connected objects and equipment.

OT employs over 6 500 employees worldwide, including almost 700 R&D people. With a global footprint of 4 regional secure manufacturing hubs and 39 secure service centers, OT’s international network serves clients in 169 countries. For more information: www.oberthur.com

Download The M World,
All you need to know about the latest trends of the Mobility world, available on AppStore and Google Play

www.oberthur.com/themworld

FOLLOW US
Twitter
LinkedIn

Contacts

MEDIA CONTACTS

Oberthur Technologies

Audrey Besnardeau, Tél. : +33 1 78 14 76 75

a.besnardeau@oberthur.com



Elan-Edelman

Chloé Tisseuil / Elise Cognacq, Tél. : +33 1 86 21 50 54 / +33 1 86 21 50 67

chloe.tisseuil@elanedelman.com / elise.cognacq@elanedelman.com







Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18262/en

Rimini Street Closes New $125 Million Financing Round Led by Colbeck

 Financing fuels accelerating global growth and expansion of leading independent enterprise software support services

LAS VEGAS - Tuesday, June 28th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Rimini Street, Inc., the leading independent provider of enterprise software support services for SAP SE’s (NYSE:SAP) Business Suite, BusinessObjects and HANA Database software and Oracle Corporation’s (NYSE:ORCL) Siebel, PeopleSoft, JD Edwards, E-Business Suite, Oracle Database, Oracle Middleware, Hyperion, Oracle Retail and Oracle Agile PLM software, today announced that it recently closed a new $125 million financing that will be used to accelerate the Company’s next phase of global growth and product portfolio expansion. The new financing round was led by Colbeck and includes a syndicate of lenders.

New Financing Will Fuel Accelerated Growth and Expansion

Rimini Street is the leading global provider of independent enterprise software support with more than 10 years of delivery experience and over 1,400 signed clients to date, including more than 130 Fortune 500 and Global 100 organizations. The Company’s annual revenue has been growing at an average rate of 36% since 2010, which has accelerated to an average rate of 39% since 2012. At the close of its fiscal Q1 ending March 31, 2016, the Company reported an annual run-rate revenue approaching $150 million and marked its 41st consecutive quarter of growth. In addition, in Q1 2016, Rimini Street’s employee count and total signed clients grew 36% and 31% year over year, respectively. In January 2016, Rimini Street announced that it had achieved the significant market milestone of saving Oracle and SAP clients more than $1 billion in total maintenance costs since the Company’s inception.

“We have been watching Rimini Street lead a very large, multi-billion dollar global market opportunity for independent enterprise software maintenance with their vision, industry leadership, and impressive execution and growth,” said Jason Colodne, managing partner, Colbeck. “Rimini Street delivers an extremely high value service with a strong, unparalleled reputation for quality support, deliverables and client satisfaction. This new financing package will help the Company more fully capitalize on the accelerating demand for their enterprise software support solutions around the world.”

“Rimini Street continues to execute its global business plan, delivering its award-winning premium support service with excellent and consistent client satisfaction, success rates and financial results. We are pleased to welcome our new financial partners who will help us take advantage of the opportunities created by accelerating global demand in our next phase of growth,” said Seth Ravin, chief executive offer and chairman of the board, Rimini Street. “As organizations around the world switch from vendor support to Rimini Street support at a rapidly growing rate, we are increasing our investments in the service programs that will help our clients fully realize the value of their SAP and Oracle enterprise software spend. Clients can save up to 90 percent in total operating costs and enable needed innovation through the re-allocation of budget and resources. Rimini Street has engineered its support model from the ground up to help our clients achieve the maximum ROI from their existing IT investments – this was our mission when we launched Rimini Street in 2005, and remains our passionate mission today.”

To learn more, follow @riministreet on Twitter and find Rimini Street on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Rimini Street, Inc.

Rimini Street is the global leader in providing independent enterprise software support services. The company has redefined enterprise support services since 2005 with an innovative, award-winning program that enables Oracle and SAP licensees to save up to 90 percent on total support costs. Clients can remain on their current software release without any required upgrades for at least 15 years. Over 1,400 global, Fortune 500, midmarket, and public sector organizations from a broad range of industries have selected Rimini Street as their trusted, independent support provider. To learn more, please visit http://www.riministreet.com.

About Colbeck

Founded in 2009 by Jason Colodne and Jason Beckman, Colbeck manages private equity-style direct lending funds and has a core focus of investing and advising on strategic finance solutions. Colbeck also provides strategic and operational advisory services.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “will,” “plan,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and are based on various assumptions. If the risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. Rimini Street assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

Rimini Street and the Rimini Street logo are trademarks of Rimini Street, Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. Copyright © 2016. All rights reserved.    

Contacts

Rimini Street, Inc.

Michelle McGlocklin, +1 925-523-8414

mmcglocklin@riministreet.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18257/en

GSMA Initiative to Drive Global Adoption of Universal Profile for Rich Communications Services Gains Momentum

Universal RCS Profile Backed by 57 Mobile Operators and Leading Handset Manufacturers; Service Will Deliver Enhanced Communications Experiences to Customers Globally

SHANGHAI - Tuesday, June 28th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The GSMA today announced that AIS, Axiata Group, Beeline, Bell Mobility, China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, Claro Brazil, Claro Colombia, Indosat Ooredoo, M1, Megafon, MTS, Optus, Personal Argentina, Personal Paraguay, Reliance Jio, Rogers Communications, Singtel, StarHub, Telcel Mexico, Tele2, Telefónica, Telkomsel, Telus and T-Mobile US are the latest operators to support a mobile industry initiative for a universal Rich Communications Services (RCS) profile worldwide. These operators are joined by leading handset manufacturers Alcatel, ASUS, General Mobile, HTC, Intex Technologies, Lava International Ltd., LG Electronics, Lenovo/Motorola, Samsung Electronics and ZTE, as well as mobile OS providers Google and Microsoft, who are also committed to bringing universal profile handsets to market. The initiative, which is defining a common, open and universal RCS profile, is now backed by 57 global operators and manufacturers.

“This global initiative aims to provide the mobile industry with a common universal profile that enables mobile operators to deploy an interoperable RCS implementation with a core feature set and configuration,” said Alex Sinclair, Chief Technology Officer, GSMA. “A universal profile will drive the global adoption of RCS services and make it easier for consumers to enjoy rich, consistent and interoperable messaging experiences regardless of device or network.”

A universal RCS profile will greatly enhance existing operator messaging services by providing users with a consistent user experience, global interoperability and a primary, uniform feature set that includes group chat, photo sharing and pre-call messaging. Pre-call messaging is a new addition to the RCS experience that recently launched in a number of markets. The profile will also act as a global platform for operators and partners, helping them to launch differentiated value-added services such as payment services, chatbots and conversational commerce. The profile will work on all supported devices and operating systems and across all operator networks, offering consumers access to innovative features.

The universal RCS profile will reduce cost and time-to-market for OEMs by allowing them to deliver a rich messaging experience with a standard set of protocols worldwide as well as use the same client for both operator customers and open market devices. The profile will also simplify the process for operators who want consistency across devices and for OEMs who are expected to keep up with ever-changing standards. The universal profile will also be supported by a formal GSMA accreditation process.

In addition to the operators announced today, the Universal Profile has already received support from América Móvil, Bharti Airtel Ltd., Deutsche Telekom, Etisalat, Globe Telecom, Google, KPN, Millicom, MTN, Orange, PLAY, Smart Communications, Sprint, Telenor Group, Telia Company, Telstra, TIM, Turkcell, VimpelCom and Vodafone. RCS is currently offered by 48 operators in 35 countries and is available on 156 devices.

GSMA Network 2020 Summit @ Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2016

The GSMA is also hosting the Network 2020 Summit today at Mobile World Congress Shanghai. The programme will include a number of seminars and interactive debates covering topics such as how 5G can create social and economic value and how RCS can be monetised, as well as the journey to an all-IP network.

For more information on the GSMA’s work with mobile operators and RCS, please go to: www.gsma.com/network2020/all-ip-news/.

Get Involved at Mobile World Congress Shanghai 2016

For more information on the 2016 Mobile World Congress Shanghai, visit www.mwcshanghai.com. Follow developments and updates on Mobile World Congress Shanghai through our social media channels – follow us on Twitter at @GSMA and use #MWCS16, get regular updates through our LinkedIn Showcase Page at www.linkedin.com/company/mobile-world-congress-shanghai, and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mwcshanghai. In China, you can follow us on Sina Weibo http://weibo.com/mwcshanghai or on the GSMA account on WeChat. For additional information on GSMA social channels, visit www.mwcshanghai.com/register-plan/networking/social-media.

-ENDS-

About the GSMA

The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, uniting nearly 800 operators with almost 300 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organisations in adjacent industry sectors. The GSMA also produces industry-leading events such as Mobile World Congress, Mobile World Congress Shanghai and the Mobile 360 Series conferences.

For more information, please visit the GSMA corporate website at www.gsma.com. Follow the GSMA on Twitter: @GSMA.    

Contacts

Media:

Ava Lau, +852-2533 9928

alau@webershandwick.com



Charlie Meredith-Hardy, +44 7917 298428

CMeredith-Hardy@webershandwick.com



GSMA Press Office

pressoffice@gsma.com





Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18261/en

Telemedicine Industry Leader GlobalMed Establishes Base of Operations for Africa

The Mbaoua Group Signs on as Exclusive Manager of African Operations for GlobalMed Telemedicine Solutions

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. & ABIDJAN, Côte d’Ivoire - Tuesday, June 28th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- As a sign of the growing importance of the African market to the world economy, GlobalMed® – the worldwide industry leader in telemedicine delivery systems – has chosen The Mbaoua Group in Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to oversee opportunities and deployments in Africa. Yaya Mbaoua, the company’s CEO, will leverage his multicultural business experience in Europe, North America and Africa to build an effective bridge for technology transfer to the emerging nations in Africa.

“Facebook plans to use satellites, lasers and drones by the end of the year to get the next billion people around the world online,” said GlobalMed Founder and CEO Joel E. Barthelemy. “Coupled with Google’s Project Loon, the balloon-based floating internet system, telemedicine will be able to reach regions that have never had it before.”

Mbaoua was first introduced to GlobalMed at the American Telemedicine Association’s Annual Conference in Los Angeles. “I knew immediately that GlobalMed was unique in the telemedicine market when compared to other Solutions. Having a proprietary and vertically integrated product offering will allow me to quickly implement world-class solutions that are tailored to the unique requirements of Africa. This is a huge competitive advantage for GlobalMed and requisite for success throughout the African regions.”

Mbaoua has spent nearly 20 years in technology product and business development in telecom, advertising, and most recently in healthcare as the Vice-President of International Sales and Business Development for Med1 and Healthcare and Vice-President of Product Management for Rally Health. While at Med1, Mbaoua forged relationships with public health systems throughout Africa and the Caribbean.

“Telemedicine will play a critical role in positively impacting Africa’s health care problems,” said Mbaoua. “My commitment to better my continent, along with GlobalMed’s mission of improving access to care globally, provides an incredible opportunity to connect doctors with millions of Africans.”

About GlobalMed

GlobalMed’s mission is to transform healthcare globally though quality, timely care for all. GlobalMed is recognized as the leading provider of integrated telemedicine solutions serving top medical institutions, corporations and government organizations worldwide. For more information, visit www.globalmed.com.

Copyright 2002-2016 GlobalMedia Group, LLC. All rights reserved.    

Contacts

GlobalMed

Yaya Mbaoua, +225.87.75.06.65

yaya@globalmed.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18259/en

Quintiles Introduces Continuous Glucose Monitoring Services to Improve Diabetes Outcomes

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. - Monday, June 27th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Quintiles today announced the launch of its new Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) service offering. This new solution combines innovative, wearable technology with Quintiles’ deep therapeutic and analytical expertise to help enhance the efficiency and quality of diabetes-focused clinical trials.

When used in clinical research, the new CGM offering will provide investigators with access to a myriad of customized data analytics and performance reports through its award-winning Quintiles Infosario® technology platform. These optimized glycemic data sets can be analyzed more efficiently to uncover trends such as non-compliance and potential safety triggers faster than traditional diabetes monitoring models. In addition, Quintiles experts from the company’s Diabetes Center of Excellence will provide dedicated support for the offering – combining data and therapeutic expertise to drive smarter protocol design and enhance patient safety and compliance.

“According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), every six seconds, a person dies from diabetes-related causes and almost half of those deaths are people under the age of 60,” said Margaret Keegan, president of Data Sciences, Safety and Regulatory Services at Quintiles. “With diabetes diagnoses on the rise, the need for innovative and accessible treatments also increases. CGM can provide a variety of in-depth measures from diabetes patients – information that can be used to enhance the way patients are treated for diabetes and why this new offering is so critical.”

Through the offering, continuous glucose measurements will be captured by a wearable sensor and wirelessly sent to a receiver, recording readings throughout the day. In the clinical trial setting, this comprehensive and timely glucose visibility has the potential to improve patient safety, accelerate clinical development and provide a basis for differentiated claims.

“We are excited to bring this new CGM offering to the market as a complement to Quintiles’ technology integration strategy,” said Sam Osman, head of Cardiac Safety Services at Quintiles. “We believe this new technology solution incorporating biosensors and wearables, which can be used across all drug development phases, will improve the way the industry tracks and improves diabetes care for patients worldwide.”

To learn more about Quintiles Continuous Glucose Monitoring, visit quintiles.com/cgm.

About Quintiles

Quintiles (NYSE: Q) helps biopharma and other healthcare companies improve their probability of success by connecting insights from our deep scientific, therapeutic and analytics expertise with superior delivery for better outcomes. From advisory through operations, Quintiles is the world’s largest provider of product development and integrated healthcare services, including commercial and observational solutions. Conducting operations in approximately 100 countries, Quintiles is a member of the FORTUNE 500 and has been named to FORTUNE’s list of the “World’s Most Admired Companies.” To learn more, visit www.quintiles.com.

Click here to subscribe to Mobile Alerts for Quintiles.

Contacts

Quintiles

Media Relations

Phil Bridges

Office: + 1-919-998-1653

Mobile: + 1-919-457-6347

phil.bridges@quintiles.com



or

Investor Relations

Todd Kasper

+1-919-998-2590

InvestorRelations@quintiles.com







Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18256/en

Tegan & Sara, JR JR Lit Up the Stage with Hilton HHonors in Canada

Private Concert Spotlighted Member Benefits and Introduced Hilton World Tour Sweepstakes

MCLEAN, Va. - Monday, June 27th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Without a doubt, Tegan & Sara know how to rock Canada. Headlining after Indie Pop Duo JR JR this past Saturday, June 25, the Canada-born band helped fans and members of Hilton HHonors, the loyalty program for Hilton’s 13 distinct brands, celebrate the unique benefits of the free-to-join membership program. The concert, which took place at Hilton Toronto, is part of the 2016 Hilton Concert Series – and was the series’ first Canada concert.

From the pre-concert reception menu, which featured locally-inspired fare, to two intimate performances, Saturday’s event provided 400+ attendees with an exclusive experience that only Hilton HHonors members can enjoy. To extend those unforgettable moments to more Hilton HHonors members this summer, Hilton introduced the Hilton World Tour sweepstakes. Now through August 31, 2016, Hilton HHonors members in Canada, the US and UK, who book directly with Hilton, have a chance to win two tickets to any Live Nation concert around the world. The three Grand Prize Winners (1 in each region) will also enjoy complimentary flights and a two-night stay at a nearby hotel within the Hilton portfolio. To participate and for alternate methods of entry, members can visit www.HiltonWorldTour.com prior to booking travel. No purchase necessary. Restrictions apply.**

“While the 2016 Hilton Concert Series continues to rock on, we’re excited to provide our Hilton HHonors members with another excuse to stop and play – with the Hilton World Tour sweepstakes,” said Mark Weinstein, senior vice president and global head of customer engagement, partnerships and loyalty, Hilton Worldwide. “We know our guests and loyalty members appreciate personalized experiences, and so we designed this customizable sweepstakes, allowing the winners to choose their own concert, creating their own incredible, once-in-a-lifetime trip."

The Perks of Loyalty

In addition to entering the Hilton World Tour sweepstakes, Hilton HHonors members who book direct will save time and money, and gain instant access to benefits like free wi-fi and upgrades, when available. To book direct, travelers are encouraged to schedule their travel on any of Hilton’s 13 brand websites, the Hilton HHonors mobile app and reservation call centers, via Room Key or through preferred corporate travel partners and approved travel agents. Other highlighted perks of booking direct include:

    Exclusive Member Rate: Members of Hilton HHonors can take advantage of an exclusive member rate at thousands of hotels around the world.
    Instant Benefits: Hilton HHonors offers instant benefits to members, such as free Wi-Fi, digital tools like digital check-in with room selection and Digital Key, as well as the ability to earn and redeem Hilton HHonors Points for free nights.
    Unforgettable Experiences: Booking direct opens the door to unique events, like private concerts, such last weekend’s Tegan & Sara show, exclusive dining experiences and one-of-a-kind travel adventures.
    Loyalty Rewarded with More Personalized Service: Hilton HHonors members can better share their preferences with the hotel for a stay tailored to their requests.

Groupies Wanted: The 2016 Hilton Concert Series

As some of the many benefits of Hilton HHonors, Hilton has introduced members to some of the music industry’s most buzz-worthy artists through the Hilton HHonors Artist Connections and Concert Series. Hilton HHonors members can redeem Points for these events at HHonors.com/auctions. Following last weekend’s Tegan & Sara concert, the final concerts of this year’s series include:

    Producer and singer/songwriter Grimes at Hilton Berlin in Berlin, Germany on July 19
    Country music singer/songwriter Kip Moore at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nashville Downtown in Nashville, Tenn., on August 31
    GRAMMY-Award winner Gary Clark Jr at Hilton Austin in Austin, Tex., on October 28

For more information on Hilton HHonors, visit HHonors.com. To attend future events, visit HHonors.com/auctions. To participate in the sweepstakes, visit HiltonWorldTour.com.

**Abbreviated Hilton World Tour Terms & Conditions

Ends August 31, 2016. Void where prohibited. Hilton World Tour Sweepstakes. No purch nec. To enter and for rules go to www.HiltonWorldTour.com/en/us/rules. Hilton World Tour Canada Sweepstakes. No purchase necessary. To enter and for rules go to www.HiltonWorldTour.com/en/ca/rules. Aucun achat requis. Se termine le 31 août 2016. Pour vous inscrire et pour consulter le règlement, visitez le www.HiltonWorldTour.com/fr/ca/rules. Nul là où la loi l’interdit. Hilton World Tour Great Britain Sweepstakes. Open to Hilton HHonors® members, who are GB resident and aged 18+. Terms apply, see www.Hiltonworldtour.com/en/uk/rules.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, comprising more than 4,660 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties with nearly 765,000 rooms in 102 countries and territories. For 96 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of 13 world-class global brands includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio - A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including exclusive member rates, free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Hilton HHonors

Hilton HHonors is the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton Worldwide’s 13 distinct hotel brands, spanning more than 4,660 hotels, resorts and timeshare properties across 102 countries and territories. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including an exclusive member rate that can’t be found anywhere else, free standard Wi-Fi and popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors mobile app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. With more than 54 million members, HHonors offers hundreds of ways to earn and redeem Points. Members can redeem their Points for free nights, premium merchandise, charitable contributions, or unique events through the HHonors auction platform (hhonors.com/auctions), such as exclusive artist experiences and hotel concert events with Live Nation® or a race experience with the McLaren-Honda Formula 1 team. HHonors members’ loyalty is also rewarded with more personalized service. There is no cost to join, and travelers may enroll online by visiting www.HiltonHHonors.com or connect with Hilton HHonors at news.hiltonhhonors.com.

About Tegan And Sara

Born in Calgary, Alberta and now residing in Vancouver, BC, Tegan and Sara recently released their eighth studio album, Love You to Death. The group’s career numbers are impressive, boasting over 1 million albums sold on the way to collecting 7 Gold certifications and 1 Double Platinum certification. They have been honoured with 3 Juno Awards, 2 Polaris Prize nominations, and a Grammy nomination.

About JR JR

Based in Detroit, MI the duo of Joshua Epstein and Daniel Zott came together in 2009. Working out of a basement studio, the pair worked to create a sound that was danceable without sacrificing anything in the songwriting department, merging intricate and airy melodies with solid programmed beats and synth atmospherics. Their hard work bore fruit in 2010 when they released their first debut EP, Horse Power. That same year the pair was also tapped to do a remix of Moby’s “Wait For Me”. In 2011, the duo released their full-length debut It’s a Corporate World. In 2013, they returned with the Patterns EP before releasing their sophomore full-length The Speed of Things later that year. In 2015, Epstein and Zott released the album JR JR to critical acclaim. The hit single “Gone” reached the Billboard Alternative top ten.





View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160627005050/en/

Contacts

Colleen Hart

Hilton Worldwide

+1 703 883 6616

Colleen.Hart@Hilton.com

news.hiltonworldwide.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18250/en

EuroMena III Successfully Concludes Its Third Deal by Investing in Credit Libanais, One of the Leading Banks in Lebanon

Beirut, Lebanon - Monday, June 27th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

The EuroMena Fund is pleased to announce the investment of USD 20m in the capital of Credit Libanais SAL, one of the Lebanese leading Alpha Banks.  EuroMena III took part of a sale arranged by Credit Libanais Investment Bank (CLIB) of 9.41 million shares held by EFG-Hermes, the exiting majority shareholder. On June 3rd, 2016 the Central Bank of Lebanon officially approved the transaction.

Established in 1961, Credit Libanais SAL is a provider of a full range of banking products and services. It has an extensive network of 69 branches in Lebanon and is present in 5 other countries serving more than 300,000 customers. In 2009, Credit Libanais obtained a license to operate in 8 countries in the West Africa Region, the targeted countries are Ivory Coast, Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo where the Lebanese Diaspora is well established. Credit Libanais opened its 1st branch in Dakar in 2011 and its 2nd branch in 2015.

 The Bank’s principal activities include retail banking, investment banking, treasury, capital markets, private banking and asset management, corporate banking, e-banking services, Islamic banking, and other innovative services. Furthermore, it was the first Lebanese bank to introduce e-banking activities through point-of-sale and ATM networks. Currently, Credit Libanais has one of the largest electronic POS networks in the country with 9,800 electronic POS and 150,000 banking cards distributed.

Thanks to the close oversight of the Lebanese Central Bank, the banking sector is financially sound and stable.  It is also well known for its strong resilience to the fast changing environments.

Romen Mathieu, Managing Partner of The EuroMena Funds, mentioned on the occasion “We are confident that the Bank’s extensive network and experienced management team as well as our knowledge in the sector and region will bear its fruits in terms of activity and geographical expansion”

EuroMena has a substantive experience in the Lebanese banking sector. In 2008, it invested in Intercontinental Bank of Lebanon (IBL) bank and successfully exited it in 2011 with a high return to its shareholders. EuroMena II also invested in First National Bank (FNB) and is still to date one of its prominent shareholders.  In line with its strategy, EuroMena III will assist the top management of Credit Libanais in its growth and development in the Middle East and Africa, where the Fund enjoys a wide network and important market knowledge.

This transaction constitutes the third investment of EuroMena III after its recent investment in Elephant in Nigeria and Jasmin in Tunisia signalling the solid investment momentum of EuroMena III following its second and final closing that took place on May 31st, 2016 for a total of USD 150 million.

Contacts

Grey Doha

Denise Yamine, 00974 33318761

Denise.yamine@greydoha.com









Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/18254/en

New analysis of INPULSIS® trials demonstrates efficacy of OFEV® (nintedanib) across a range of IPF patients using broader diagnostic criteria

INGELHEIM, Germany - Monday, June 27th 2016 [ME NewsWire]

    For the first time the analysis shows that disease progression is similar in IPF patients identified using a broader diagnostic definition compared with the current diagnostic guidelines
    OFEV® is effective in slowing disease progression in both diagnostic subgroups which confirms the efficacy of OFEV® across a broad range of IPF patients
    Analysis has implications on criteria used to diagnose IPF in clinical practice as well as in future clinical trials design

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- New analysis of the INPULSIS® trials show for the first time that disease progression is similar in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients identified using a broader diagnostic definition compared with the current diagnostic guidelines. The post-hoc analysis of these 1,061 patients has now been published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

IPF is a devastating and fatal condition. Physicians use an imaging technique called high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) to help them identify the presence of scarring (fibrosis) and specifically the presence of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern in the lungs to ensure an accurate diagnosis of IPF. Radiological changes called “honeycombing” are a key indicator for lung fibrosis and a feature of the UIP pattern visible on HRCT. However, it can be challenging to confirm that scarring in the absence of honeycombing on HRCT meets the strict guideline criteria for a definitive diagnosis of IPF. For a large group of patients who do not receive a confirmed diagnosis of IPF according to guidelines, including those not eligible for surgical lung biopsy, the clinical course of their condition and the effectiveness of IPF treatment remains unknown. Investigations into the behaviour of the disease across diagnostic subgroups is therefore crucial.

The INPULSIS® trials included patients with a classic diagnosis of IPF but also those patients with a clinical diagnosis of IPF who, in the absence of a surgical lung biopsy and honeycombing on HRCT, had a possible UIP pattern and the presence of traction bronchiectasis. Traction bronchiectasis is recognised as one of the most relevant CT signs of lung fibrosis. The analysis also shows that OFEV® is effective in slowing disease progression in both diagnostic subgroups which confirms the efficacy of OFEV® across a broad range of IPF patient types studied in Phase III and may be applicable to patients seen in clinical practice.

“In clinical practice achieving a confident diagnosis of IPF is complex. While the accuracy of IPF diagnosis is increased by discussions among experts from multi-disciplinary services at regional centres with expertise in interstitial lung diseases, community physicians may more often make a diagnosis of IPF that does not always meet the criteria laid down by international guidelines” said Ganesh Raghu, M.D., Professor of Medicine, University of Washington in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine and Director of Center for Interstitial Lung Diseases at University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA. “This analysis confirms for the first time that disease progression and effect of treatment in a subgroup of patients not fully meeting the diagnostic criteria is similar to those meeting the current criteria, as defined in the 2011 international guidelines for diagnosis of IPF. This has implications to consider accepting the modified criteria, as used in this study for making a diagnosis of IPF that includes presence of possible UIP pattern and traction bronchiectasis in lower lobes (despite the absence of definite honeycombing on HRCT and surgical lung biopsy), in an appropriate clinical setting and in future clinical trials.”

The subgroup analysis showed that:

    In patients with confirmed UIP pattern, including honeycombing and/or biopsy, the adjusted annual rate of decline in FVC was −108.7 mL/year in the nintedanib group and -225.7 mL/year in the placebo group (difference versus placebo of 117.0 mL/year).
    In patients with HRCT features of possible UIP pattern, with no honeycombing and no biopsy but the presence of traction bronchiectasis, the adjusted annual rate of decline in FVC was −122.0 mL/year in the nintedanib group and -221.0 mL/year in the placebo (difference versus placebo of 98.9 mL/year).
    The treatment-by-subgroup interaction p-value was not significant (p=0.8139), indicating that the treatment effect of nintedanib was not different between the subgroups.
    The treatment effect in both subgroups was also consistent with the treatment effect in the overall pooled population.
    Adverse events were similar between subgroups.

For more information on the current international guidelines and diagnostic criteria please visit: http://www.atsjournals.org/doi/full/10.1164/rccm.2009-040GL#.VyMb-fkrLIU

~ ENDS ~

Please click on the link below for ‘Notes to Editors’ and ‘References’:

http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/press-release/ipf-ofev-inpulsis-broader-diagnostic-criteria



Intended audiences:

This press release is issued from our Corporate Headquarters in Ingelheim, Germany and is intended to provide information about our global business. Please be aware that information relating to the approval status and labels of approved products may vary from country to country, and a country-specific press release on this topic may have been issued in the countries where we do business.    

Contacts

Boehringer Ingelheim

Corporate Communications

Media + PR

Anja Konschak

Phone: +49 6132 – 77 182415

Fax: +49 6132 – 77 6601

Email: press@boehringer-ingelheim.com









Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/18253/en