Tag: PR Newswire

eVTOLs are on the verge of full commercial manufacturing and approval

BOULDER, Colo., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new report from Guidehouse Research explores electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, industry players, and proposed business models for rolling out eVTOLs.

Now that EVs are being fully rolled out on the ground, developers are looking at other transformations for moving people around. With technological advances increasing every year, eVTOLs are on the verge of full commercial manufacturing and approval, but are flying-car services really on the horizon? According to a new report from Guidehouse Research, with the imminent certification and commercialization of eVTOL vehicles fueling the idea of cars flying over traffic, market watchers can be forgiven for believing that all traffic problems have been solved, and congestion will never be a problem again.

“Many manufacturers of these aircrafts are attempting to speed up their commercial development by launching them as part of a larger air ride-hailing service, like an ‘Uber in the sky,'” says Jake Foose, research analyst with Guidehouse Research. “Whether or not the market is ready for that service to roll out is one issue, but another is whether the vehicles themselves are ready for a flight hailing service.”

According to the report, Guidehouse Research suggests:

• The current eVTOL target business model is unrealistic and shows few signs of applicability to a larger market.
• After the initial rollout, eVTOL operators should not focus on flight-hailing services.
• Battery swapping technology could be developed to alleviate charging infrastructure issues that might arise while operating eVTOLs as passenger aircraft.

The report, Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Vehicle Services Create Fewer Advantages Than Initially Thought, reviews current eVTOL technology, industry players, and proposed business models for rolling out eVTOL. Guidehouse Research provides detailed and actionable recommendations for eVTOL manufacturers, both for short-term business models and for technology developments that could assist overall market share. An executive summary of the report is available for free download on the Guidehouse Research website.

About Guidehouse Research
Guidehouse Research, the dedicated market intelligence arm of Guidehouse, provides research, data, and benchmarking services for today’s rapidly changing and highly regulated industries. Our insights are built on in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. The team’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research, and demand assessment, paired with a deep examination of technology trends, to provide a comprehensive view of emerging resilient infrastructure systems. Additional information about Guidehouse Research can be found at guidehouseresearch.com.

About Guidehouse
Guidehouse is a global advisory, technology, and managed services firm delivering value to commercial businesses and federal, state, and local governments. Purpose-built to serve industries focused on communities, energy, infrastructure, healthcare, financial services, defense, and national security, Guidehouse positions clients for AI- and data-led innovation, efficiency, and resilience. With a relentless pursuit of client success and high-quality standards, more than 18,000 colleagues collaborate across the firm to outwit complexity and achieve transformational impact, shaping the future by inspiring meaning in mission. guidehouse.com  

* The information contained in this press release concerning the report, Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Vehicle Services Create Fewer Advantages Than Initially Thought, is a summary and reflects the current expectations of Guidehouse Research based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report’s conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Guidehouse Research nor Guidehouse undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report.

For more information, contact:

Cecile Fradkin for Guidehouse Research
+1.646.941.9139
cfradkin@scprgroup.com

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SOURCE Guidehouse Research

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SEGULA Technologies officially sets up in South Africa: by opening a design office in Cape Town, the country’s fastest-growing city, the engineering group is confirming its commitment to local development.

Located in the Constantia district of the Mother City, the new office is intended to become a regional hub for the Group’s activities in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the following areas:

• Energy: The Group aims to deploy its expertise alongside global players in the Oil & Gas, renewable energies (solar, wind), nuclear, and hydrogen sectors, as well as in energy storage (batteries) and French nuclear technology.

To consolidate its offering in this sector, SEGULA Technologies also recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AllWeld, a South African industrial services and production company with 60 years’ experience in the energy and industry sectors. The shared objective is to jointly meet the needs of their customers with a unified technical and commercial offering that combines the power of SEGULA Technologies as an international group with AllWeld’s production capabilities and in-depth knowledge of local industry. The two partners will thus be able to mobilise integrated teams and offer a wide range of equipment, construction, maintenance and engineering services.

There are also promising prospects for hydrogen in neighbouring countries, notably Namibia and Zambia.

• Railway: SEGULA is working with leaders on major projects covering rolling stock, signalling and advanced rail systems.
• Automotive: South Africa is the continent’s leading manufacturing country, with eight major manufacturers, making it a dynamic market in which SEGULA is already active. SEGULA Technologies brings its expertise in product design, industrial processes, quality, logistics and purchasing to this fast-growing sector.

SEGULA is also exploring opportunities in the mining sector, drawing on the multi-disciplinary skills of its teams to meet growing needs in engineering, maintenance and innovation.

“South Africa, with its advanced industrial ecosystem and skilled talent, is becoming a regional hub to support the continent’s transformation. A veritable bridge between the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa, it offers a strategic time zone, controlled service costs and English as a working language, making it easier to manage international projects. Our goal is to recruit more than 100 employees by 2028, to build a local, agile engineering capability that is focused on the continent’s future.” – Jean-Christophe Godet, Managing Director, SEGULA South Africa.

CONTACT: marketing@segula.fr

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SOURCE SEGULA Technologies

HONG KONG, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (“NetDragon” or the “Company”, Hong Kong Stock Code: 777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce that it has achieved an “A” rating in the latest 2025 ESG assessment conducted by Wind Information Co.,Ltd (“Wind”), in recognition of its outstanding performance in environmental protection, social responsibility, and corporate governance. Wind defines an “A” rated company as one with high management standards, low ESG risks, and strong capabilities for sustainable development. Among the 105 listed software companies assessed this year, NetDragon ranked 6^th. The Company also achieved scores above the industry average across all three dimensions: Environment, Social, and Governance, underscoring its comprehensive strength and leading position in sustainability.

Wind is a leading provider of financial data and analytics services in China. The Wind ESG Rating framework is composed of assessment towards managerial practices and controversy events, aligning with the foundation of international standards while adapting to the characteristics of China’s capital market. Leveraging its strong data capabilities, Wind has constructed a data‑driven ESG rating system that currently covers more than 12,000 corporate entities in the Greater China region, including all A‑share and Hong Kong‑listed companies, as well as public bond issuers.

NetDragon has consistently integrated sustainability into its business operations and product development. The Company is committed to fulfilling its social responsibilities, enhancing governance structures, and driving industry-wide and societal progress through technological innovation and global expansion. Through a wide range of initiatives, NetDragon continues to advance sustainability: in environmental protection, it actively explores best practices in energy conservation, carbon reduction, and green operations. NetDragon’s digital education products are deployed in over 2 million classrooms across 192 countries, fostering the global adoption of green education concepts. On the social front, the Company promotes philanthropic programs, advances education equity, and enhances public welfare through its distinctive “Gaming + Philanthropy” model, integrating digital innovation with meaningful social impact. In June, NetDragon partnered with the Xishuangbanna Tropical Rainforest Conservation Foundation to launch the “Towards the Future: Asian Elephant Rescue Action (象往未来•亚洲象救助行动),” leveraging gamified features in Eudemons Online to raise public awareness of wildlife protection. In corporate governance, NetDragon adheres to transparent, robust, and compliant governance practices, continuously creating long‑term value in line with ESG principles.

Through its ongoing commitment to ESG excellence, NetDragon has garnered broad recognition from both the industry and the wider community. The Company received “BBB” in MSCI ESG rating, surpassing the industry average in the “Privacy and Data Security” category. Furthermore, NetDragon was rated as a “low risk” company by the reputable rating agency Morningstar Sustainalytics, placing it among the top performers in the software and services industry. Recently, NetDragon’s digital education solutions won the “Education Innovation & Technology – Rising Star Award” at the “2025 Hong Kong Sustainable Development Innovation and Technology Awards,” organized by the World Institute of Sustainable Development Planners (WISDP) and sponsored by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Government of the HKSAR. NetDragon’s innovative case was also included in the 2025 Hong Kong Sustainable Development Innovation & Technology Solutions Report.

Looking ahead, NetDragon will continue to advance its ESG initiatives by enhancing management practices and disclosure standards, and furthering the development of its “Gaming+” model and digital education innovations. The Company aims to collaborate closely with global partners to promote cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and educational equity, thereby creating long‑term, sustainable value for both society and the environment.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited   

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) is a global leader in building internet communities with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users, including previous establishments of China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.    

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known online game developers in China with a history of successful game titles including Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, Conquer Online, and Under Oath. In the past 10 years, NetDragon has also achieved success with its online education business both domestically and globally, and its overseas education business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 1 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries.   

For investor enquiries, please contact:  
NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited  
Ms. Maggie Zhou
Senior Director of Investor Relations  
Email: maggiezhou@nd.com.hk  / ir@netdragon.com   
Website: ir.netdragon.com     

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SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

STORA ENSO OYJ HALF-YEAR FINANCIAL REPORT 23 July 2025 at 8:30 EEST

HELSINKI, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 

Q2/2025 (year-on-year)

• Sales increased by 5% to EUR 2,426 (2,301) million, mainly due to higher deliveries and a positive impact from structural changes.
• Adjusted EBIT decreased by 18% to EUR 126 (153) million. Adjusted EBIT margin decreased to 5.2% (6.7%). The ramp-up of the new consumer board line at the Oulu site had a negative impact of approximately EUR 50 million.
• Operating result (IFRS) was EUR 64 (92) million, including items affecting comparability of EUR -35 million, and fair valuations and other non-operational items of EUR -27 million.
• Earnings per share were EUR 0.03 (0.05) and earnings per share excl. fair valuations (FV) were EUR 0.05 (0.06).
• The fair value of the forest assets increased to EUR 9.0 (8.7) billion, equivalent to EUR 11.40 per share.
• Cash flow from operations amounted to EUR 145 (323) million, impacted by the lower profit and decreasing trade payables.
• The net debt to adjusted EBITDA (LTM) ratio improved to 3.3 (3.5).
• Adjusted ROCE excluding the Forest segment (LTM) increased to 3.3% (1.1%).

January–June 2025 (year-on-year)

• Sales were EUR 4,789 (4,466) million.
• Adjusted EBIT was EUR 301 (302) million.
• Operating result (IFRS) was EUR 235 (232) million.
• Earnings per share (EPS) were EUR 0.17 (0.15) and EPS excl. fair valuations (FV) was EUR 0.18 (0.14).
• Cash flow from operations amounted to EUR 336 (592) million. Cash flow after investing activities was EUR -83 (-18) million.

Key highlights

• In May, Stora Enso entered into an agreement to divest approximately 175,000 hectares of forest land, equivalent to 12.4% of its total forest land holdings in Sweden for an enterprise value of EUR 900 million, equivalent to SEK 9.8 billion. Stora Enso will retain a 15% ownership and secure long-term wood supply.
• Stora Enso has initiated a strategic review of its Swedish forest assets. The review includes assessing a potential separation and public listing of the forest assets.
• The ramp-up of the new consumer board line at the Oulu site in Finland is proceeding, and the line is expected to reach full capacity during 2027.
• The acquisition of the Finnish sawmill company Junnikkala Oy was completed during the quarter.
• Stora Enso implemented a new, leaner and flatter organisational structure as of 1 July 2025, dividing its packaging business into four main areas with a reinforced focus on renewable packaging as the core business: Foodservice and Liquid Board, Cartonboard, Containerboard, and Packaging Solutions.
• FTSE Russel has upgraded Stora Enso’s ESG rating score from 4.4 to 4.6 (max 5.0), and ranked the Group as the best company in its sector. Stora Enso also remains included in the FTSE4Good Index Series.
• In July, Fitch confirmed that Stora Enso’s credit rating will continue as BBB- with Stable Outlook.

Outlook and focus for 2025
Stora Enso expects market demand to remain subdued and volatile, affected by heightened macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty.

Guidance
Stora Enso anticipates that the adverse impact on adjusted EBIT for the full year of 2025, due to the ramp-up of the new consumer packaging board line at the Oulu site in Finland, will be around or somewhat above EUR 100 million.

The Group’s capital expenditure forecast for the full year of 2025 is EUR 730–790 million.

In the third quarter of 2025, maintenance costs are expected to increase by approximately EUR 10 million from Q2/2025.

Fiber costs are expected to remain at high levels.

Focus for 2025

• Continue systematic and determined work across the whole Group to improve profitability, cash flow, and cost competitiveness through a focus on sourcing, operational efficiency, commercial excellence, working capital, and fixed costs
• Complete the sale of 12.4% of Swedish forest assets.
• Conduct a strategic review of the remaining Swedish forest assets, including the assessment of a potential separation and public listing of the forest assets.
• Continue to build a leaner and flatter organisation by dividing the packaging business into four main areas – Foodservice and Liquid Board, Cartonboard, Containerboard, and Packaging Solutions – with a reinforced focus on renewable packaging as the core business. The new streamlined organisation will increase customer focus, drive operational efficiency through increased integration, reduce complexity, and enhance the Group’s performance culture.
• Transition to a more integrated business model across the Nordic packaging board mills to improve the entire value chain and customer-centricity.
• Ramp up production and leverage the EUR 1 billion investment in the new packaging board line at the integrated mill in Oulu, Finland, to strengthen Stora Enso’s competitive position.

Outlook from Q2/2025 to Q3/2025

Markets remain volatile, with low consumer sentiment. The direct impact of the US tariffs at current rates is limited given that Stora Enso’s direct sales to the USA account for only just below 3% of total group sales (2024). Tariffs impacting global trade present both risks and opportunities to our business. However, the main risk, as it currently stands, is the overall impact on the economy and trade flows.

Overall demand in the packaging segments is expected to remain stable at a low level. Prices are expected to remain relatively stable, despite ongoing pressure from persistent overcapacity and increased competition from Asia in consumer boards. In euro terms, prices for overseas deliveries are expected to be negatively affected by a weaker US dollar. 

Market demand for pulp is expected to remain weak due to market uncertainty, the low season, and increased inventory levels. Market pulp prices are expected to continue decreasing or to flatten throughout the summer and into autumn, negatively impacted by a weaker US dollar. 

Following the holiday season, demand in the wood products markets is projected to return to previous low levels. Prices are expected to remain stable amid ongoing pressure from rising saw log costs. 

The Forest segment is estimated to maintain stable financial performance. 

The third quarter profitability will be negatively affected by the planned maintenance stops, approximately EUR 10 million, and the continuing ramp-up of the new line at Oulu, with an estimated impact of EUR 30–45 million.

Key figures

 

1 Total forest assets value, including leased land, assets held for sale and Stora Enso’s share of Tornator.
2 LTM=Last 12 months
3 Q1 and Q2 2024 restated in Q3 2024, please see the interim report for Q3 2024 for more details. 

Stora Enso’s President and CEO Hans Sohlström comments on the second quarter 2025 results:

During the second quarter of 2025, we continued to make good progress in building a stronger and more competitive Stora Enso. While market conditions remained challenging, we focused on the areas within our control – enhancing sourcing, operational efficiency, commercial excellence, working capital, and fixed costs.

We reached a major milestone with the agreement to divest approximately 175,000 hectares of forest land, equivalent to 12.4% of our total forest land holdings in Sweden, for an enterprise value of approximately EUR 900 million, in line with our Swedish forest book value. This transaction reduces our debt and enhances our financial flexibility. Stora Enso will retain a 15% ownership. In connection with the transaction, Stora Enso and the divested entity will enter into a 15-year wood supply agreement with a possible additional 15-year extension.

Following this, we initiated a strategic review of our remaining 1.2 million hectares of Swedish forest assets, reinforcing our commitment to active portfolio management and shareholder value creation. As part of this review, we will explore various options, including a potential separation and listing of the forest business into a new company that would be wholly owned by all Stora Enso shareholders. The aim of the review is to assess options to further strengthen Stora Enso’s leading renewable packaging business, as well as to unlock the value and business potential of the unique Swedish forest business. 

Our new consumer board line in Oulu continued the ramp-up during the quarter. Customer feedback on product quality has been very encouraging. While the ramp-up will continue to weigh on earnings in the short term, we remain confident the Oulu board line will be very cost-competitive and deliver some of the best quality products in the industry. This investment is central to our strategy of growing in renewable packaging. We also closed the acquisition of Junnikkala sawmills, which will further enhance the Oulu mill’s cost competitiveness.

Financially, all operational segments delivered positive adjusted EBIT for the second consecutive quarter, despite continued weakness in board and pulp markets, with total adjusted EBIT at EUR 126 million. The Oulu ramp-up had an approximately EUR 50 million negative impact on the second quarter adjusted EBIT. Sales at EUR 2.4 billion grew 5% year-on-year supported by high demand for wood products and packaging solutions. Our continuous, dedicated efforts to improve cash flow resulted in an operating working capital to sales of 6.9%, a decrease of 1.8 percentage points year-on-year. Cash flow was negative in the second quarter, as expected, driven by the final investments at the Oulu site.

Looking ahead, we expect subdued and volatile market demand to persist through the remainder of 2025, driven by macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty. Market pulp prices are expected to continue to decrease or to flatten throughout the summer and into autumn, while some board prices are facing pressure due to low demand. We are also entering a period of higher maintenance activity, which will increase maintenance costs in the second half of the year. The Oulu ramp-up will continue to impact EBIT negatively, albeit less than in the second quarter.

As previously announced, we have implemented a new, leaner and flatter organisational structure as of 1 July 2025. This new structure will increase customer focus, drive operational efficiency with increased integration, reduce complexity and enhance the Group’s performance culture. The renewable packaging business will consist of four P&L responsible business areas: Foodservice and Liquid Board, Cartonboard, Containerboard, and Packaging Solutions. The remaining businesses continue to be divided into three P&L responsible business areas: Biomaterials, Wood Products, and Forest. Within these seven business areas, P&L responsibility is further decentralised down to 22 new P&L responsible business units close to customers and operations.

I am proud of the resilience and dedication shown by our teams across the company. We are navigating through a volatile world with determination and discipline, and we remain firmly on track to deliver long-term sustainable value. Thank you for your continued support. 

Webcast for analysts, investors, and media

Analysts, investors, and media are invited to participate in the webcast with a teleconference today at 11:00 am EET (10:00 CET, 9:00 BST, 4:00 EDT). The results will be presented by President and CEO Hans Sohlström and CFO Niclas Rosenlew. The presentation can be followed live via the link: https://stora-enso-oyj-q2-earnings-presentation-2025.open-exchange.net/registration

During the webcast presentation, analysts and investors will also have the possibility to ask questions. To participate in the teleconference, please choose the “Teleconference” option on the homepage of the webcast. Recording of the webcast will be available shortly after the event at the same address and at storaenso.com/en/investors/interim-report

Media representatives who wish to ask questions after the publication of the report may contact Carl Norell, SVP Corporate Communications at Stora Enso on +46 72 241 0349.

This release is a summary of Stora Enso’s Half-year Report January–June 2025. The complete report is attached to this release as a pdf file. It is also available on the company website at storaenso.com/en/investors/interim-report.

Media enquiries:
Carl Norell
SVP Corporate Communications
tel. +46 72 241 0349

Investor enquiries:
Jutta Mikkola
SVP Investor Relations
tel. +358 50 544 6061

The forest is at the heart of Stora Enso and we believe that everything made from fossil-based materials today can be made from a tree tomorrow. We are the leading provider of renewable products in packaging, biomaterials, and wooden construction, and one of the largest private forest owners in the world. Stora Enso has approximately 19,000 employees and our sales in 2024 were EUR 9 billion. Stora Enso shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Oy (STEAV, STERV) and Nasdaq Stockholm AB (STE A, STE R). In addition, the shares are traded in the USA on OTC Markets (OTCQX) as ADRs and ordinary shares (SEOAY, SEOFF, SEOJF). storaenso.com/investors

CONTACT: 

Investor enquiries:
Jutta Mikkola
SVP Investor Relations
tel. +358 50 544 6061

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SOURCE Stora Enso Oyj

PASAY CITY, Philippines, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The SM Group is firming up its commitment to reduce plastic waste as a shared responsibility across its business units.  Led by its parent company, SM Investments Corporation, the conglomerate recently created a working group committee that convenes and conducts regular dialogues, enjoining SM’s different businesses to incorporate plastic reduction into their respective sustainability roadmaps.

This is in support of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022, or EPR Law which requires companies to take responsibility for the recovery of their plastic packaging products and to pursue waste management programs.

“While plastic plays a crucial role in modern life, its convenience often contributes to a throwaway culture, leading to one of our planet’s most pressing environmental challenges. We understand the importance of waste recovery and recycling not only as part of our sustainable business vision but also as a social and legal obligation. SM’s approach is both practical and actionable,” Timothy Daniels, Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability, SM Investments Corporation said.

Take for example SM Markets, the SM Group’s umbrella brand for SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore, which has ushered in greener retail practices in encouraging the use of eco-bags over single-use plastics since 2007. In 2024 alone, SM Markets sold 19 million Green Bags, equivalent to around 42 million plastic bags avoided.

One of SM Retail’s affiliates, Watsons Philippines has transitioned 81% of its stores to using paper bags instead of single-use plastics. In addition, over 2,140 retail stock-keeping units (SKUs) fall under Watsons’ Sustainable Choices category, which includes products classified as Clean Beauty, Better Ingredients, Better Packaging, and Refills. These products reflect its commitment to offering more environmentally responsible options to consumers.

Goldilocks Bakeshop, Inc., one of SM’s portfolio investments, reduced the size of ribbons used in each of their packaging leading to a reduction of 7,000 kilograms of plastics annually.

2GO Group, Inc., the logistics business of the SM Group, has also taken deliberate steps to reduce plastic use by transitioning to environmentally friendly packaging. Their shipping operations now utilize 100% recyclable, reusable and biodegradable packaging materials.

Considering its footprint across the Philippines, SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) commits to foster the much-needed infrastructure that will help support and maintain plastic waste management strategies across its businesses. SM Prime has equipped its properties with Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and standardized waste segregation systems across all malls and developments. There are 15 designated drop-off points for plastic wastes, which diverted 63,874 kgs of plastics from landfills.

Trash-to-Cash (TTC) is a long-running monthly recycling market held in all SM Supermalls, where customers can exchange recyclables – such as paper, plastic and metal – for cash. TTC has facilitated the exchange of over 1 million kilograms of recyclables each month, totaling approximately 12 million kilograms. This is equivalent to saving 204,000 trees if all the recyclables were paper or reducing 18,000 tons of carbon emissions if all were plastic.

Consumer-facing initiatives such as the RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) segregation bins launched by SM Supermalls in 2023 and information drives help employees and customers reinforce the group’s wider efforts.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has also phased out single-use plastics in its hotels as early as 2018, replacing amenities with refillable or eco-friendly options.

“Plastic waste reduction at SM is about steady, coordinated progress made possible by a shared culture of everyday solutions, and a proactive approach across all our businesses,” Mr. Daniels added.

The United Nations Environment Programme identified plastic pollution as a global problem with 19-23 million tons of plastic waste going into the ecosystem, polluting lakes, rivers and seas.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM’s retail operations are the country’s largest and most diversified, consisting of grocery stores, department stores and specialty retail stores. SM’s property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM’s interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest private domestic bank.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

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SOURCE SM Investments Corporation

CALGARY, AB, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Parkland Corporation (“Parkland”, “we”, the “Company”, or “our”) (TSX: PKI) expects to announce its 2025 second quarter results after markets close on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis will be posted to www.parkland.ca and www.sedarplus.ca after the results are released.

Due to the pending arrangement with Sunoco LP that was previously announced on May 5, 2025, Parkland will not host a conference call or webcast to discuss its second quarter results.

About Parkland Corporation

Parkland is a leading international fuel distributor, marketer, and convenience retailer with safe and reliable operations in twenty-six countries across the Americas. Our retail network meets the fuel, and convenience needs of everyday consumers. Our commercial operations provide businesses with fuel to operate, complete projects and better serve their customers. In addition to meeting our customers’ needs for essential fuels, Parkland provides a range of choices to help them lower their environmental impact, including manufacturing and blending renewable fuels, ultra-fast EV charging, a variety of solutions for carbon credits and renewables, and solar power. With approximately 4,000 retail and commercial locations across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean region, we have developed supply, distribution, and trading capabilities to accelerate growth and business performance.

Our strategy is focused on two interconnected pillars: our Customer Advantage and our Supply Advantage. Through our Customer Advantage, we aim to be the first choice of our customers through our proprietary brands, differentiated offers, extensive network, competitive pricing, reliable service, and compelling loyalty program. Our Supply Advantage is based on achieving the lowest cost to serve among independent fuel marketers and distributors in the hard-to-serve markets in which we operate, through our well-positioned assets, significant scale, and deep supply and logistics capabilities. Our business is underpinned by our people and our values of safety, integrity, community, and respect, which are embedded across our organization.

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SOURCE Parkland Corporation

• Historic Partnership: Silvania and Grupo Perú, representing AIDESEP, ANECAP, and CONAP, join forces to develop the world’s first Jurisdictional REDD+ Program on Indigenous lands in Peru, led by the Peruvian Ministry of Environment (MINAM).
• Landscape scale Amazon protection: The initiative aims to protect up to 7.5 million hectares of Amazon rainforest, delivering significant biodiversity and climate benefits.
• Indigenous Leadership: The program prioritizes Indigenous rights, cultural heritage, and sustainable development, empowering local communities as stewards of the forest.

GENEVA, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Silvania, Mercuria’s global natural capital investment platform, has announced a partnership with Grupo Perú – a coalition representing three Indigenous Peoples organizations in Peru: AIDESEP, ANECAP, and CONAP – to invest in the development of the world’s first Jurisdictional REDD+ Program on Indigenous lands, marking a significant step forward in global conservation and climate action.

Signed in the presence of the Peruvian Minister of Environment, Juan Castro Vargas, this initiative will be led by the Peruvian Ministry of Environment (MINAM) in close collaboration with Grupo Perú and their NGO partner, Desarrollo Rural Sustentable (DRIS).

Together, the Jurisdictional REDD+ program aims to protect up to 7.5 million hectares of Amazon rainforest, while fostering sustainable development and safeguarding the rights and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities.

A Pioneering Approach to Conservation and Community Empowerment

The program represents a new model for addressing deforestation and climate change in partnership with the Indigenous communities. By implementing a range of initiatives designed to enhance livelihoods, improve social conditions, strengthen governance capacity, and bolster the enforcement of regulatory frameworks, the program seeks to create lasting benefits for both people and the planet.

Central to this effort is a deep commitment to respecting the rights, traditions, and needs of the Indigenous communities who have long served as stewards of these vital forests. The initiative will prioritize inclusive decision-making and equitable benefit-sharing to ensure that the voices of Indigenous Peoples remain at the heart of conservation efforts.

Protecting Biodiversity and Advancing Climate Goals

The Amazon rainforest is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, and the program is expected to deliver significant biodiversity benefits alongside its conservation efforts. By safeguarding these critical habitats, the initiative will contribute to global climate goals while preserving the rich natural heritage of the region.

The program will be registered under the ART TREES standard. This robust framework will help drive measurable progress in reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable land use practices.

A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future

“This partnership represents a monumental step forward in the fight against deforestation and climate change,” said Andres Huby, Head of Latam at Silvania. “By working hand-in-hand with Indigenous communities, we are not only protecting vital ecosystems but also empowering the stewards of these lands to lead the way in sustainable development.”

CONAP echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and respect for Indigenous rights. “The forest is not just life, it is our home, our history, and our future. With these agreements, we are ensuring its protection and reaffirming our commitment to the world,” said Apu Oseas Barbarán, president of CONAP.

Voices from Indigenous leadership

“For years, we have maintained that the international community cannot talk about climate solutions without Indigenous peoples. This agreement represents an opportunity to strengthen our capacities for Indigenous governance, boost territorial monitoring, and channel climate resources in a direct, fair, and transparent manner,” said Apu Jorge Pérez, president of AIDESEP.

“The union of Indigenous peoples through the Grupo Peru, together with MINAM and the private sector through Mercuria via their Silvania vehicle, enables the establishment of a strategic alliance for the conservation and sustainable use of forests that benefits the Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, improving their quality of life,” stated Apu Fermín Chimatani, president of ANECAP.

About Silvania
Silvania is a global natural capital investment platform launched with an initial USD $500 million commitment from Mercuria and its co-founders, aims to restore the planet’s natural balance by mobilizing large-scale private investment in nature and biodiversity.

It is a leading company in investing in and developing environmental solutions, carbon credit trading and marketing, sustainable finance, and climate impact initiatives. The company is dedicated to fostering partnerships that drive measurable progress in global sustainability efforts.

About Grupo Perú

Grupo Perú is a coalition of three Indigenous Peoples organizations in Peru— Interethnic Association for the Development of the Peruvian Rainforest (AIDESEP), National Association of Executors of Administration Contracts of Communal Reserves of Peru (ANECAP), and Confederation of Amazonian Nationalities of Peru (CONAP). They encompass a wide range of tribes and ethnic group to represent and advocates for the rights of Indigenous Peoples – promoting the sustainable development of Indigenous territories, protecting cultural heritage, and ensuring the recognition of Indigenous governance systems. Collectively they represent over 3,000 Indigenous Communities.

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SOURCE Silvania

Now available on iOS and Android, the Holy Bible app helps users stay spiritually grounded with daily verses, devotionals, multiple translations, and offline access. 

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For many people of faith, finding time each day to read the Bible can be difficult. Whether it’s due to a busy schedule, lack of access to a physical Bible, or not knowing where to begin, staying consistent with Scripture isn’t always easy. The newly launched Holy Bible app, now available on Android and iOS, is designed to remove those barriers and help users stay connected to God’s Word—anytime, anywhere. 

Created for readers of all ages and backgrounds, the app offers a streamlined, accessible way to engage with Scripture every day. Users can receive inspirational Bible verses daily, explore multiple Bible translations including the King James Version (KJV), and access thoughtful devotionals that offer encouragement and guidance. 

The Holy Bible app also includes a growing library of faith-based articles to help deepen users’ understanding of Biblical teachings. With offline access, users can read the Bible and devotionals even when they’re on the go or without internet service—perfect for travel or limited-connectivity environments. 

Designed with simplicity in mind, the app features an intuitive layout that allows for easy navigation, highlighting, bookmarking, and note-taking, making it ideal for both quick inspiration and deeper study. Verses and devotionals can also be shared easily with friends and family, encouraging a sense of community and shared faith. 

“We built this app to serve the real needs of people trying to grow spiritually in a busy, modern world,” said Ryan Marshall, Chief Product Officer. “Our goal is to make it easier to bring Scripture into daily life in a meaningful way.” 

The Holy Bible app is now available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Whether you’re a longtime believer or exploring the Bible for the first time, Holy Bible offers a welcoming, practical way to stay rooted in God’s Word. 

Download Holy Bible App Now

Eightpoint is a digital product company transforming bold ideas into impactful, scalable products. We rapidly build and evolve user-first products that solve real problems—from desktop to mobile and beyond. Our growing ecosystem includes innovative products like NOAA Live Weather Radar, a sleek app that delivers real-time forecasts with clarity and ranks among the most-used weather apps in the World; Check Heart Rate Now, a quick and easy wellness monitor; and Wave Browser, a powerful and secure way to search the web. Every product we launch is designed to engage users, enhance daily life, and deliver real-world value. Backed by data and driven by a relentless commitment to quality, Eightpoint moves fast, thinks big, and builds digital experiences that people love. Discover how we turn big ideas into bold digital products at https://eightpoint.io

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SOURCE Eightpoint

Investment Highlights ENGIE’s Commitment to Expanding Renewable Energy and Supporting Local Communities in the Commonwealth

HOUSTON, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ENGIE North America (ENGIE), a global leader in the energy transition, announced today an agreement to acquire a portfolio of 22 net energy metered (NEM) solar energy projects, totaling more than 70 MW in Pennsylvania from Prospect14, a Pennsylvania-based solar energy developer. This acquisition underscores ENGIE’s commitment to advancing renewable energy in Pennsylvania, creating jobs, generating local tax revenue, and strengthening distribution grid reliability.

The portfolio consists of multiple distributed solar projects designed to provide clean, cost-effective electricity. By acquiring these projects, ENGIE continues to expand its commitment to renewable energy solutions in the region.

Kristen Fornes, Head of Distributed Solar and Storage at ENGIE North America, commented: “We are excited to develop solar energy projects in Pennsylvania. These projects align with our mission to deliver sustainable, locally sourced energy while supporting the Commonwealth’s transition to a more resilient and decarbonized energy system.”

Brendan Neagle, President of Prospect14, added: “This is great news for Pennsylvania. A well-capitalized energy market leader like ENGIE investing in solar projects in the Commonwealth means more jobs, increased local tax revenue for rural communities, and enhanced reliability for the distribution grid. Prospect14 is proud to play a role in making these benefits a reality in our home state.”

The acquisition of this portfolio reinforces the growing demand for distributed solar generation in Pennsylvania and the financeability of NEM solar projects, and highlights the Commonwealth’s potential for further renewable energy investment. As Pennsylvania continues to expand its clean energy infrastructure, transactions like this will help drive economic growth and environmental sustainability.

About Prospect14

Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, Prospect14 focuses on the scaled origination and development of renewable energy in multiple markets in the United States. Since its inception, Prospect14 has originated more than 6.5 GWdc of solar and solar + storage projects. For more information, please visit www.prospect14.com.

About ENGIE North America

Based in Houston, Texas, ENGIE North America Inc. is a regional hub of ENGIE, a major player in the energy transition, whose purpose is to accelerate the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy. With 98,000 employees in 30 countries, the Group covers the entire energy value chain, from production to infrastructures and sales. ENGIE combines complementary activities: renewable electricity and green gas production, flexibility assets (notably batteries), gas and electricity transmission and distribution networks, local energy infrastructures (heating and cooling networks), and the supply of energy to local authorities and businesses. Every year, ENGIE invests more than $10 billion to drive forward the energy transition and achieve its net zero carbon goal by 2045. ENGIE (ENGI) is listed on the Paris and Brussels Stock Exchanges. For more information on ENGIE in North America, please visit our website at www.engie-na.com or our LinkedIn page.

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SOURCE Prospect14 LLC

PECO has been recognized for its long-standing commitment to sustainability through its circular supply chain practices and initiatives focused on pallet repair, reuse, and waste reduction.

ITASCA, Ill., July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PECO Pallet, Inc. (PECO), one of North America’s leading pooled pallet rental providers, has been named to Inbound Logistics magazine’s 2025 Green 75 list, honoring companies that demonstrate exceptional environmental stewardship and sustainable logistics. 

“This prestigious recognition highlights the company as one of the 75 leading organizations that ‘walk the walk’ when it comes to meaningful sustainability in supply chain and logistics operations,” said Felecia Stratton, editor and associate publisher of Inbound Logistics. “In today’s global landscape, where environmental responsibility is more critical than ever, earning a place on the G75 list is a notable achievement.”

This marks the fifth consecutive year PECO has earned a place on the Green 75 list.

PECO is widely regarded as a sustainability leader in the pallet industry, providing its signature red, high-quality block pallets through a robust North American network. Sustainability is deeply embedded in its operations and company culture, with ongoing environmental initiatives that reduce waste, extend pallet lifecycles, and conserve natural resources.

“At PECO, sustainability is not just a phrase – it’s a core part of how we operate and who we are,” said Joe Dagnese, PECO’s chief executive officer. “As a company providing essential assets and services to thousands of businesses, we embrace sustainability not only as being a responsible environmental steward, but as a value-driven business practice that delivers operational value and provides PECO and its customers with recognized competitive advantage.”

PECO’s pooled pallet system supports a circular supply chain model by emphasizing reuse, repair, and recycling, helping reduce dependence on single-use alternatives. The company’s efforts include proactive pallet maintenance, landfill diversion, composting, and transportation optimization—all of which contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting resource efficiency.

As the primary platform for shipping goods across industries—on trucks, intermodal rail, and more—pallets play a critical role in supply chains. PECO serves a broad range of sectors, including consumer packaged goods, grocery, agriculture, big-box retailers, club stores, and local and regional distributors.

To view the full list of Inbound Logistics’ 2025 Green Supply Chain Partners, visit:
https://www.inboundlogistics.com/articles/75-green-supply-chain-partners/

About PECO Pallet, Inc. – Itasca, IL-based PECO Pallet is one of North America’s leaders in pallet rental services and provides tens of millions of its red block pallets to major grocery and consumer goods manufacturers in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. PECO Pallet’s tremendous growth over the last 25+ years reflects the company’s commitment to quality and service. Customers using PECO’s superior pallets experience less product damage, greater efficiency, improved safety, and significant cost savings. For more information about PECO Pallet, please visit www.pecopallet.com.

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SOURCE PECO Pallet, Inc.