Tag: 3BL

At Keysight, this spirit lives beyond our labs and offices. It extends into classrooms, community centers, and after-school spaces around the world.

Through the Keysight After School program, Keysight employees volunteer their time, knowledge, and energy to inspire young learners to dream boldly and think differently. Whether it’s sparking curiosity through a simple experiment or guiding students through their first robotics challenge, these moments create ripples of confidence that last far beyond the school day.

Learning powered by purpose

Education lies at the heart of long-term societal prosperity and creative growth. That’s why the Keysight After School program bridges the company’s passion for innovation with its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR).

In 2025, Keysight volunteers inspired nearly 2,000 students through hands-on learning experiences using STEM activity kits provided by the Keysight After School program to bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics to life.

Growing as Students, Giving as Volunteers

Every kit opens a new window into discovery. It’s an experience that builds confidence, curiosity, and connection. For many students, it’s the first spark that reveals what they’re capable of. And for the volunteers, it’s a reminder of why they give their time – to see the power of engineering, science, and teamwork come alive through young eyes while helping support a future technology skilled workforce.

A Keysight volunteer shared with us his journey about this experience: “I had a great experience volunteering with Keysight After School.  I worked with a third grade class, and we did projects that ranged from building Lego machines to dissecting owl pellets.  For each session, I came up with a lesson theme that would be understandable to the audience which, admittedly, is a little different than the engineering teams I usually speak with.  It made me think deeper about the topics than I would have expected so that I could explain them simply and clearly!”

Shaping tomorrow, together

Innovation isn’t only about technology – it’s about people getting together and sharing ideas. When employees bring their skills and hearts to local classrooms, they help build a world where innovation is sustainable, and accessible to all.

Special thanks to the Keysight volunteers and the students whose curiosity keeps us inspired. Together, we’re not just building skills; we’re building futures.

To learn more about CSR, visit Corporate Social Responsibility | Keysight

Download Nielsen’s 2025 Responsibility & Sustainability Report here.

At Nielsen, our purpose is to power a better media future for all people. That’s why we champion transparency, inclusion, integrity and sustainability and remain committed to helping our clients and communities thrive through change.

This 2025 Responsibility & Sustainability Report provides an overview of Nielsen’s environmental, social and governance strategy, approach and performance, inclusive of 2024 data. The report is organized around our key responsibility and sustainability priority areas, and additional data disclosures on these topics are provided in the report’s Appendix. Additionally, there are addenda aligned with two external reporting frameworks: the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

“As the media industry continues to transform, so too will Nielsen, driven by a clear purpose, sustainable practices and an innovative global team with big dreams and aspirations that is powering a better media future for all.”

Karthik Rao, CEO, Nielsen

Highlights from the report

Encouraging innovation

In early 2025, we launched our 15th Business Resource Group called SPARK (Securing Protection for Audience Research & Knowledge), an innovation-focused group that provides a space to explore bold ideas, champion intellectual property and contribute to Nielsen’s evolving business landscape.

Listening to employee voices

We regularly gather feedback to shape the employee experience. In 2024, 80% of employees participated in our Nielsen Voice Survey, up from 73% in 2023. Their input helped teams and managers focus on what matters most and contributed to an 8-point increase in our employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS).

Growing AI use responsibly

We hosted our first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Hackathon in fall 2024 that brought together more than 700 Nielsen employees to explore practical applications and new innovations. As we expand our use of AI, we remain focused on upskilling teams, protecting data and leveraging technology in alignment with Nielsen’s values.

Expanding our green fleet

To advance our commitment to lower-emission transportation, our global fleet, primarily used for field operations, continues to shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles. These vehicles represented 22% of our total portfolio at the end of 2024, up from 18% in 2023.

Volunteering in our communities

Employee engagement in community programs nearly doubled in 2024, rising to 42.5% from 22.7% participation in 2023, and surpassing our three-year goal of 30%. Employees logged nearly 19,900 total volunteer hours during 2024.

Read Nielsen’s 2025 Responsibility & Sustainability Report here.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., November 24, 2025 /3BL/ – DreamBox Math for Texas by Discovery Education is fully approved by the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) through the Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process for supplemental math programs.

Created expressly for Texas educators and students, DreamBox Math for Texas is 100% aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) Readiness Standards. This dynamic supplemental math program for grades K-5 complements full-subject instruction, such as Bluebonnet Learning. Through engaging, adaptive lessons that reinforce key math skills and build confidence, DreamBox Math for Texas helps educators prepare students for proficiency, including STAAR assessments.

DreamBox Math for Texas offers a balance between procedural fluency and conceptual understanding and is available in English and Spanish. Offering digital and downloadable materials, DreamBox Math for Texas delivers responsive adaptivity with real-time adjustments to lessons for effective personalization. Students receive targeted support in the form of just-in-time feedback, help, and hints to guide their problem solving. Educators receive targeted instruction support, including a suite of comprehensive resources featuring guides, dashboards, and professional learning to streamline implementation and lesson planning.

In addition, Dreambox Math for Texas provides ongoing progress data that helps inform instructional decisions so educators may build on learning experiences that encourage student growth and mastery. Daily progress monitoring reports provide actionable insights for administration while a family dashboard offers at-home timely insights.

“With DreamBox Math for Texas, K-5 classrooms gain a data-informed adaptive student learning solution built in TEKS alignment and designed for student success,” said Todd Wirt, Executive Vice President of Partner Engagement. “By offering personalization, rigor, and alignment, DreamBox Math for Texas empowers educators to deliver evidence-based math instruction that engages students and accelerates learning at scale.”

DreamBox Math for Texas is part of Discovery Education’s award-winning suite of K-12 learning solutions trusted by teachers and students worldwide. For more information about the research-backed DreamBox Math for Texas, visit https://www.discoveryeducation.com/texas/math.

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About Discovery Education
Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art, PreK-12, digital solutions help educators engage all students and support higher academic achievement. Through award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, and innovative classroom tools that are effective, engaging, and easy to use, Discovery Education helps educators deliver powerful learning experiences. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Through partnerships with districts, states, and trusted organizations, Discovery Education empowers teachers with essential edtech solutions that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and accelerate learning. Learn more at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contact
Grace Maliska
Discovery Education
Email: gmaliska@dicoveryed.com

QUERÉTARO, Mexico, November 24, 2025 /3BL/ – SCS de México (SCIENTIFIC CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS DE MÉXICO SA DE CV), a pioneer and global leader in third-party food and agriculture certifications and standards development, today announced its approval by SENASICA to offer Organic Certification under Mexico’s Organic Products Law, Ley de Productos Orgánicos (LPO).

Mexico’s organic sector continues to expand, with more than 46,000 producers, predominantly small and medium-sized operations, cultivating over 331,000 hectares of organic food and generating approximately 400 million dollars annually. Nearly 80 percent of this production is exported to major markets including the United States, Canada, and the European Union. As the market grows, LPO certification ensures the integrity of organic products, and supports compliance for companies operating in or exporting to Mexico.

“Obtaining approval to offer LPO Organic certification marks an important milestone for SCS de México,” said Oscar Morales, General Manager at SCS de México. “We are excited to support Mexican growers, processors, and traders in meeting the rigorous standards of the Organic Products Law while helping them access both domestic and international markets for organic products.”

LPO certification confirms that organic products comply with Mexico’s Organic Products Law, its regulations, and the Organic Production Guidelines Agreement, which establishes requirements for seed selection, soil management, plant nutrition, pest and disease control, harvesting, processing, and marketing. The certification ensures that producers use approved inputs and implement practices that maintain organic integrity throughout the supply chain. SCS de México is now authorized to certify organic operations across three key categories: vegetable production, processing of agricultural and livestock products, and commercialization of organic products.

Mexico Organic (LPO) certification is required for any operation selling or importing organic products into Mexico, including:

• Growers exporting organic crops to Mexico or selling organic crops within Mexico
• Processors and manufacturers using organic ingredients in finished products
• Traders, importers, and exporters managing organic product movement
• Private label brands marketing organic products
• Distributors, repackers, and handlers operating in the organic supply chain

LPO certification allows operators to use the official Mexican Organic seal and confirms that only substances permitted under LPO standards were used during production, an assurance that is increasingly important for international buyers. Certification also supports broader sustainability and market-access goals as Mexico strengthens oversight of its organic sector.

SCS de México brings extensive experience in organic certification worldwide, working with innovative agricultural producers and handlers to promote responsible practices. Companies may also streamline compliance by combining LPO certification with complementary services, including USDA National Organic Program certification, Non-GMO Project Verification, Sustainably Grown®, Fair Trade USA, and SCS Gluten-Free certification.

For more information about LPO Organic Certification from SCS de México, visit Organic Certification LPO | SCS Global Services or contact: ventas_mx@scsglobalservices.com.

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About SCS Global Services

SCS Global Services is a global leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, and standards development, currently celebrating its 40th year of services. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies, and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a California-chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. SCS is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. For more information, visit www.SCSGlobalServices.com.

 

Versión en Español

Scientific Certification Systems de México S.A. de C.V. (SCS de México) obtiene la aprobación para ofrecer la certificación orgánica en virtud de la Ley de Productos Orgánicos (LPO) de México.

La principal entidad certificadora en materia de sostenibilidad amplía sus servicios para apoyar al creciente sector de la agricultura orgánica en México.

 

QUERÉTARO, México, November 24, 2025 /3BL/ – SCS de México (SCIENTIFIC CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS DE MÉXICO SA DE CV), empresa pionera y líder mundial en certificaciones de terceros y desarrollo de normas para la alimentación y la agricultura, ha anunciado hoy que ha recibido la aprobación del SENASICA para ofrecer certificación orgánica en virtud de la Ley de Productos Orgánicos (LPO) de México.

El sector orgánico de México sigue creciendo, con más de 46 000 productores, en su mayoría pequeñas y medianas empresas, que cultivan más de 331 000 hectáreas de alimentos orgánicos y generan aproximadamente 400 millones de dólares al año. Casi el 80 % de esta producción se exporta a los principales mercados, incluidos Estados Unidos, Canadá y la Unión Europea. A medida que el mercado crece, la certificación LPO garantiza la integridad de los productos orgánicos y respalda el cumplimiento normativo de las empresas que operan en México o exportan a este país.

«La aprobación para ofrecer la certificación orgánica LPO representa un hito significativo para SCS México», afirmó Oscar Morales, director general de SCS de México. «Nos complace apoyar a los productores, procesadores y comerciantes mexicanos a cumplir las rigurosas normas de la Ley de Productos Orgánicos, al mismo tiempo que les facilitamos el acceso a los mercados nacionales e internacionales de productos orgánicos».

La certificación LPO asegura que los productos orgánicos cumplen con la Ley de Productos Orgánicos de México, sus reglamentos y el Acuerdo de Lineamientos para la Producción Orgánica, el cual establece los requisitos para la selección de semillas, manejo del suelo, nutrición de las plantas, control de plagas y enfermedades, la cosecha, el procesamiento y la comercialización. La certificación garantiza que los productores utilizan sustancias aprobados y aplican prácticas que preservan la integridad orgánica a lo largo de toda la cadena de suministro. SCS de México está ahora autorizada para certificar operaciones orgánicas en tres categorías clave:

• Producción vegetal
• Procesamiento de las actividades agropecuarias
• Comercialización de productos de las actividades agropecuarias

La certificación de la Ley de Productos Orgánicos (LPO) es requisito obligatorio para cualquier operación que implique la venta o importación de productos orgánicos en México, incluyendo:

• Productores que exportan cultivos orgánicos a México o comercializan cultivos orgánicos dentro del país.
• Procesadores y fabricantes que emplean ingredientes orgánicos en productos terminados.
• Comerciantes, importadores y exportadores que gestionan el movimiento de productos orgánicos.
• Marcas privadas que comercializan productos orgánicos.
• Distribuidores, re envasadores y manipuladores que participan en la cadena de suministro orgánica.

La certificación LPO permite a los operadores utilizar el Distintivo Nacional mexicano de productos orgánicos y garantiza que, durante la producción, únicamente se emplearon sustancias permitidas por la LPO. Esta certificación representa una garantía cada vez más valorada por los compradores internacionales. Además, contribuye a objetivos más amplios de sostenibilidad y acceso a mercados, en un contexto donde México refuerza la supervisión y el desarrollo de su sector orgánico.

SCS de México aporta una amplia experiencia en certificación orgánica a nivel mundial, trabajando con productores y manipuladores agrícolas innovadores para promover prácticas responsables. Las empresas también pueden reducir los costos de evaluación combinando la certificación LPO con servicios complementarios, como la certificación del Programa Orgánico Nacional (USDA), la Verificación del Proyecto No-GMO, Sustainably Grown®, Fair Trade USA y la certificación SCS Libre de Gluten.

Para obtener más información sobre la certificación orgánica LPO de SCS de México, visite Certificación orgánica LPO | SCS Global Services o envíe un correo electrónico a: ventas_mx@scsglobalservices.com.

Más información

Acerca de SCS Global Services 

SCS Global Services es líder mundial en verificación, certificación, auditoría y desarrollo de normas medioambientales y de sostenibilidad por terceros, y actualmente celebra su 40.º aniversario. Sus programas abarcan una amplia gama de sectores y reconocen los logros en materia de mitigación del cambio climático, construcción ecológica, fabricación de productos, alimentación y agricultura, silvicultura, productos de consumo y mucho más. Con sede en Emeryville, California, SCS cuenta con representantes y oficinas afiliadas en América, Asia/Pacífico, Europa y África. Su amplia red de auditores está formada por expertos en sus campos, y la empresa es un socio de confianza para empresas, agencias y organizaciones de defensa debido a su dedicación a la calidad y la profesionalidad. SCS es una empresa de beneficio público constituida en California, lo que refleja su compromiso con las prácticas empresariales social y medioambientalmente responsables. SCS también participa en el Pacto Mundial de las Naciones Unidas y se adhiere a su enfoque basado en principios para una empresa responsable. Para obtener más información, visite www.SCSGlobalServices.com.

 

Media Contact: 
Shyama Devarajan 
Senior Marketing Analyst, SCS Global Services
sdevarajan@scsglobalservices.com

Originally published on The Straits Times

Access to capital is critical. But without a digital identity or proven credit history, many MSMEs struggle to secure loans, with up to 60 per cent of those in South-east Asia reporting difficulty in obtaining financing.

To meet this need, the Mastercard Impact Fund pledged US$5 million last year to unlock up to $1 billion in Asian Development Bank financing for MSMEs. This shows how relatively small commitments from the private sector can de-risk lending and spur a cycle of credit-building.

Click here to continue reading on The Straits Times

Follow along Mastercard’s journey to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere.

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

Originally published on Essity Newsroom

Hygiene and health company Essity has once again been awarded the prestigious Platinum medal by EcoVadis, the world’s leading provider of business sustainability ratings. This recognition places Essity among the top 1% of all companies assessed worldwide for their sustainability performance. With an overall score of 88 out of 100, an increase from previous years, this achievement highlights Essity’s continuous progress and unwavering commitment to responsible business practices.

The EcoVadis assessment, which covers over 150,000 companies in 185 countries and 250 industries, is a comprehensive evaluation of companies’ performances across four key themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. In 2025, Essity achieved “Outstanding” or “Advanced” ratings in all major categories, with particular strengths in environmental stewardship, ethical business conduct, and transparent reporting.

EcoVadis’ rigorous methodology rewards not only strong policies but also measurable actions and results. For Essity’s key focus areas affecting its business, the sustainability rating reflects comprehensive policies on all key areas, including disclosure on progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Sustainability is at the heart of Essity’s strategy and daily operations. This Platinum rating from EcoVadis is a testament to the dedication of our teams worldwide and our ongoing efforts to create long-term value for people, society, and the environment. We are proud to be recognized among the global leaders in sustainable business and remain committed to raising the bar for positive impact throughout our organization as well as our value chain,” says Sahil Tesfu, Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer at Essity.

EcoVadis is a highly trusted and leading independent provider of sustainability ratings for global value chains. Its evidence-based assessments follow international standards and are reviewed by sustainability experts. Companies receive a 0–100 score, medal levels by percentile (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum), and a scorecard showing key strengths and improvement areas.

Essity regularly shares these results and insights with customers and partners globally.

For further information, please contact:
Marc Specque, Public Relations Director, +33 614 316 792, Marc.Specque@essity.com

Essity awarded EcoVadis Platinum medal for outstanding sustainability leadership in

In this video conversation with Trellis, Sarah Mouriño, Senior Director of Sustainability for DP World in the Americas, highlights how the company’s community-first approach is creating both environmental and economic resilience across its global network. 

Mouriño explains that sustainability at DP World is “where trade meets purpose” – linking global logistics with the wellbeing of local communities and natural ecosystems. 

Restoring Nature Through Local Partnerships 

Across several Latin American countries, DP World is working with local communities to restore damaged mangrove forests and coral ecosystems. What began as a small, community-led effort has grown into a collaborative restoration project that strengthens coastal resilience, protects livelihoods, and enhances long-term port stability. 

Empowering Youth to Shape Their Futures 

DP World’s community work extends beyond conservation. From technical training and education programs to youth mentorship initiatives, the company is expanding opportunities for young people in port communities across the Americas. As Mouriño notes, seeing these programs firsthand reveals “how much it changes what young people believe is possible.” 

Scaling Global Solutions Locally 

Through partnerships such as Teach For All and WaterAid, DP World shares global insights across regions while tailoring solutions to local needs – from Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects in water-stressed areas to education programs designed for the green and digital economy. 

A Career Built on Purpose and Possibility 

Mouriño also reflects on her own path in sustainability, emphasizing the role of curiosity, risk-taking, and being “in the right place at the right time” in building a career that bridges community impact and global trade. 

Watch the full video to hear Sarah’s perspective on how people-focused sustainability is shaping DP World’s work across the Americas – and why community partnership remains essential to building resilient, nature-positive supply chains. 

Learn more about DP World’s sustainability work here.  

SHANGHAI, November 24, 2025 /3BL/ – Dow (NYSE: DOW) has announced the official opening of its first Cooling Science Studio, located at the Shanghai Dow Center. As Dow’s first collaborative R&D environment dedicated to thermal management, the launch of the Cooling Science Studio marks a pivotal step in helping the Company align its R&D capabilities with localized expertise to drive global breakthroughs in cooling technology.

Managing the heat with materials science
Advanced electronics, from Artificial Intelligence to robotics, are redefining the way people live, work, move and communicate. While these technologies create unprecedented opportunities for innovation, they also pose critical challenges in the form of power and heat management, which can impact performance, reliability, energy efficiency and sustainability. Dow’s Cooling Science Studio is designed to address these growing thermal demands head-on, delivering future-ready materials that help stabilize systems, extend device lifespans, and enable long-term innovation across critical electronics applications.

“This is the start of an exciting chapter for Dow in China. Our new Cooling Science Studio in the Shanghai Dow Center reinforces our ongoing investment in, and dedication to, advancing thermal management solutions for our customers both in China and across the electronics industry – an area where we offer support as a total solutions provider of thermal interface materials, immersion cooling fluids and heat transfer fluids,” says Cathy Chu, Global Strategic Marketing Director, Consumer & Electronics, Dow Consumer Solutions. “Not only does this Studio enhance our existing application and testing capabilities in these areas, but it also expands our opportunities to collaborate directly with our local customers to address their end-to-end cooling needs.”

Key features of the Cooling Science Studio
The Cooling Science Studio in Shanghai is focused around three core modules to accelerate the development of advanced thermal management solutions from early-stage concepts to commercialization:

• Comprehensive evaluation & testing: The Studio will initially provide thermal testing and experimentation for key components across data centers, consumer electronics and telecommunications.
• Application capabilities and cross-industry demonstrations: In addition to showcasing Dow’s material application processes, such as dispensing and screen printing, the Studio also features cross-industry application demonstrations. These demos will allow customers to evaluate the performance of Dow’s cooling technologies across a wide range of electronics applications, helping them identify the best solutions for their needs.
• Seamless technical support: Working with the team in the Cooling Science Studio provides customers with direct access to Dow’s full range of thermally conductive samples. Additionally, customers can also connect with Dow’s experts and laboratory resources, allowing for more efficient collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Innovating for a cooler, more sustainable future
As a global leader in silicone-based technology, Dow is committed to turning today’s cooling challenges into tomorrow’s cooling breakthroughs. With the new Cooling Science Studio in Shanghai, close customer collaboration can help power a more efficient, more sustainable future for electronics.

About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world’s leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation, leading business positions and commitment to sustainability enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 30 countries and employ approximately 36,000 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2024. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us and our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world by visiting www.dow.com.

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View original content here.

For further information, please contact:

Eileen Zeng
Dow
eyzeng@dow.com 

May Lan
Meet.KY
may.lan@meetky.cn

_{Please note: The information contained herein is provided for illustrative purposes only and shall not be construed as product specifications. Customers are advised to verify results through their own testing.}

_{Disclaimer: This information is provided in good faith for your consideration but without any warranties or guarantees, express or implied. Analytical conditions and methods of using the information and materials described herein may vary and are beyond Dow’s control. While this information is based on data Dow believes to be reliable and accurate, we do not intend for you to rely on the contents of this document, and you should not interpret it as business, technical, or any other form of advice. We recommend that you determine the suitability of the information and materials described herein before adopting or using them on a commercial scale. Dow assumes no liability for the use of this information.}
 

Converting offices to apartments may create opportunities for real estate investors and revitalize cities.

Municipal authorities in US cities where home prices have soared are increasingly seeking to convert outdated and unwanted offices into apartments. That can be a welcome development for a commercial real estate market that is still licking its wounds from the pandemic, changing commuter patterns and persistently high interest rates.

Today, municipal incentives and property value resets have aligned sufficiently to justify the cost of conversion. For commercial property investors and lenders alike, it may add up to attractive opportunities to capitalize adaptive-reuse projects—the repurposing of old or obsolete buildings for new uses.

Reuse offers a potential solution to two major challenges facing many American cities: soaring office vacancy rates, which have nearly doubled since the pandemic, and an acute housing shortage—aggravated by high interest rates—that has put homeownership out of reach for many.

The low valuations of older office buildings and the expected savings on demolition and other development costs can increase the attractiveness of conversion. But in most cases, it often comes down to this: the cheaper the purchase price of the obsolete office building, the more realistic the adaptive reuse opportunity.

We’re starting to see a clustering of opportunities in dense gateway cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco, where much of the office stock is 60 years or older and no longer fit for purpose. Incentives for conversion, including tax abatements and zoning changes, can speed the process.

Overcoming Challenges with Conversions

Adaptive reuse isn’t without complications. Conversions can be notoriously difficult, especially with older buildings. Many come with environmental issues, such as asbestos or lead, that require remediation and have deep floor plates that necessitate “light wells” to let in natural light. Another complication: most offices have poured concrete floors strengthened by rebar grids with structural integrity that can be put at risk by too many penetrations or poorly thought-out drainage layouts.

In many cases, it is easier to simply demolish an unused office and build a modern, fit-for-purpose multifamily residential tower in its place.

But with rising prices and interest costs, the cost-benefit analysis is starting to change. Investors who can buy a sufficiently devalued office tower are increasingly finding that it may be more cost-effective to convert than to build from scratch. This may allow developers to save time and money on demolition costs, while also improving a property’s environmental profile.  A sale of an empty office building also provides sellers another way to move a potentially obsolete asset off their balance sheets.

In most cases, profit potential in conversions for developers and investors is likely to be greatest when functionally obsolete properties can be acquired at a deep discount.

Cities increasingly embrace these conversions, too. They can help address housing supply shortages, reinstate lost tax revenue, and bring life back to neighborhoods that have become less vibrant. For the right projects, municipalities will often promote conversion with expedited zoning and tax incentives.

The Evolution of Office: A Case Study

When done well, we believe conversions can benefit multiple stakeholders and provide attractive return potential for real estate equity and debt investors.

Consider a 50-year-old office building that lacks the amenities today’s office tenants require but is in a prime location in a major East Coast city. In this case, a private equity sponsor might want to revamp the existing space and reposition the building as a top-quality Class A office tower. But in recent years, the shift to remote work, followed by rising interest rates, have challenged that vision, leaving the lender with a pressing question: What next?

As the building enters foreclosure, several bidders step forward, each eager to pick up the asset at a discount to the sponsor’s original purchase price. Their proposals share a common theme: they want to transform the existing office building into a highly amenitized multifamily asset that better matches local market demand. But then another bidder, with a Class-A tenant in tow, steps in with a plan to raze the building and put up a brand new “trophy office,” complete with high ceilings and state-of-the-art features to attract discerning top-tier tenants.

Does this mean the market for office space in US cities is roaring back to life? Not quite. But when it comes to well-located properties, opportunities for real estate investors willing to invest in transformation are more plentiful than ever. Vacancy rates in the top buildings are typically below 10%, creating a viable market for office in the right location. At the same time, demand for multi-family units in urban centers remains strong.

Dollars and “Sense” in Conversions

As long as a building can be bought cheaply enough to repurpose—something that was rarely possible a few years ago—there’s an attractive opportunity for seasoned developers to undertake imaginative conversions that add value to the community while also delivering for investors.

It’s unclear whether this environment marks the start of a new cycle in commercial real estate activity. But an increasing number of clever conversions tomulti-family and top-tier office are bringing energy to pandemic-strained communities—and may be evidence of the green shoots of the next cycle.

We think that’s good news for investors who know their way around complex business plans and conversions.

The views expressed herein do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams. Views are subject to revision over time.

Learn more about AB’s approach to responsibility here.

By Webster Bank

DIX HILLS, N.Y., November 24, 2025 /3BL/ – Webster Bank, together with SCO Family of Services, a leading provider of essential human services, has opened the newest Webster Bank Finance Lab, a program created to provide local youth and families the skills needed for financial empowerment and future financial well-being. Funded by a $100,000 initial grant from Webster, SCO piloted financial literacy programming for young mothers who reside on their Madonna Heights campus. Finance Lab programming is in development to reach youth served by SCO across the organization.

The Webster Finance Lab program is a signature initiative designed to help nonprofit partners expand financial empowerment programming for youth in their communities. Through financial education tools, learning experiences, and interactive workshops the program helps youth and families avoid common financial pitfalls and strengthen their financial confidence, an essential part of improving socioeconomic mobility. To date, Webster has invested nearly $2.5 million in nine Finance Labs throughout its footprint.

“Collaborating with SCO Family of Services to introduce Long Island’s first Finance Lab reflects our shared dedication to uplifting local communities and advancing missions that align with our own,” said Marissa Weidner, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at Webster Bank. “At Webster, we continue to prioritize financial education and inclusion as key drivers of economic opportunity in the communities where we live and work.”

The Webster Bank Finance Lab will play a crucial role in empowering youth, including young mothers who reside on SCO’s Madonna Heights campus. Madonna Heights provides a supportive and transformative environment for young woman who are overcoming a variety of challenges, such as trauma, mental health issues, intellectual disabilities, and substance use. In response to their unique needs, the Finance Lab offers specialized financial literacy education tailored to meet their specific needs, helping participants build essential skills to achieve financial independence and stability.

“We are deeply grateful to Webster Bank for their continued partnership and commitment to strengthening financial literacy among the youth and young mothers we serve,” said Suzette Gordon, President & CEO of SCO Family of Services. “At SCO, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to build a secure and independent future. When our young people are equipped with the right resources and guidance, they are empowered to overcome challenges and step confidently into adulthood. This groundbreaking program will give our participants the tools, knowledge, and confidence to shape their own futures.”

Local and state dignitaries including NYS Assembly Member Kwani O’Pharrow, NYS Assembly Member Steve Stern and Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg joined Webster and SCO Family of Services leaders to officially open the program at SCO’s Madonna Heights location in Dix Hills, N.Y.

In July 2025, Webster celebrated the opening of a Finance Lab in Providence, Rhode Island. Other Finance Lab partners are in Hartford, Bridgeport and Waterbury, Connecticut; Taunton and Dorchester, Massachusetts; NYC Metro, Long Island, and Yonkers, New York.

About SCO Family of Services

SCO Family of Services is one of the largest human services agencies in the metropolitan area, serving 45,000 New Yorkers each year. We help New Yorkers build a strong foundation for the future. We get young children off to a good start, launch youth into adulthood, stabilize and strengthen families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs. We envision a world where all New Yorkers thrive. SCO has played a vital role delivering human services in communities throughout New York City and Long Island for 130 years. For more information, please visit www.sco.org.

About Webster

Webster Bank (“Webster”) is a leading commercial bank in the Northeast that provides a wide range of digital and traditional financial solutions across three differentiated lines of business: Commercial Banking, Consumer Banking and Healthcare Financial Services, one of the country’s largest providers of employee benefits and administration of medical insurance claim settlements solutions. Webster is a values-driven organization headquartered in Stamford, CT, with $80 billion in assets. Its core footprint spans the northeastern U.S. from New York to Massachusetts, with certain businesses operating in extended geographies. Webster Bank is a member of the FDIC and an equal housing lender. For more information about Webster, including past press releases and the latest annual report, visit the Webster website at www.websterbank.com.

Media Contact:
Alice Ferreira
acferreira@websterbank.com
203-578-2610

Investor Contact:
Emlen Harmon
eharmon@websterbank.com
212-309-7646