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Minimum Deposit Casinos Warns: Fed’s Payment Account Proposal Could Reshape Casino Transaction Costs

WATERFORD, Ireland, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC), a division of the OneTwenty Group, has issued new commentary on the U.S. Federal Reserve’s proposed “payment account” framework and its potential impact on online gambling transactions. The proposal, officially opened for public comment on December 19, would allow eligible non–bank financial institutions limited access to core Federal Reserve payment systems including FedNow and Fedwire, without granting them full banking privileges.

“The Federal Reserve’s push to open its payment infrastructure to fintechs is a historic shift,” said an MDC spokesperson. “While this aims to promote innovation and reduce friction, the impact on licensed gambling operators could be significant. Faster settlements and direct clearing may improve payout speeds, but they also introduce new risk and compliance expectations. These will not be free.”

The proposed accounts, often referred to as “skinny master accounts,” are designed to modernize how money moves through the U.S. economy. They come with strict limits on balances, access, and risk controls, yet they offer a direct path for payment providers to bypass traditional bank intermediaries. This could fundamentally change how funds are deposited and withdrawn on gambling platforms.

While the proposal is still in the public consultation phase, MDC notes it reflects a broader regulatory trend toward increasing scrutiny over digital payments. If implemented, the framework may lead to new auditing and fraud prevention requirements for payment partners, costs that could ultimately impact platform operations and the player experience.

“This is where the real tension lies,” the spokesperson added. “Low–cost payment systems have helped drive accessibility in iGaming. But with increased operational oversight will come new expense, and that could lead to slower withdrawals, more rigorous verification checks, or higher transaction fees.”

MDC encourages licensed casino operators and their payment providers to closely follow the Fed’s initiative and begin evaluating the resilience and compliance–readiness of their current infrastructure.

About MDC

Minimum Deposit Casinos (MDC), a division of the OneTwenty Group, is a trusted global portal that advocates for transparent, licensed, and regulatorily compliant online casino experiences. MDC focuses on reviewing and recommending platforms that adhere to the highest standards of KYC, responsible gaming, and secure payment processing.

Contact Email: [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001156294)

DALI Alliance Launches Test and Certification Specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways

PISCATAWAY, N.J., Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The DALI Alliance, recognized as the international authority in lighting technology standardization, proudly announces the launch of its new test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways. This groundbreaking release allows seamless control of wired DALI devices from either Bluetooth® NLC (Networked Lighting Control) or Zigbee wireless ecosystems, and provides access to data from DALI systems, paving the way for increased interoperability and flexibility in the lighting industry.

The new specifications allow wired and wireless connectivity within lighting systems and give the flexibility to choose the best lighting control solution for the application. The test and certification specifications will ensure that standardized gateways translate effectively between DALI systems and the wireless protocols, Bluetooth NLC or Zigbee, providing a crucial link between these diverse technologies. These standardized gateways promote market confidence and accelerate the adoption of DALI–based solutions in the evolving world of smart building technologies.

Key Features and Benefits

  • The new specifications allow wired DALI products, both DALI–2 and D4i, to be controlled within wireless ecosystems, offering greater flexibility and adaptability.
  • Gateways translate seamlessly between DALI and Bluetooth NLC or Zigbee wireless protocols, providing robust interoperability.
  • These standardized gateways allow wireless ecosystems to access data from wired DALI devices, including the rich set of luminaire, power and energy and diagnostics data available from D4i luminaires.

As Paul Drosihn, General Manager of the DALI Alliance, explains, “The introduction of these test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways is a significant milestone. It opens up new possibilities for integrating DALI with wireless systems, creating a broader range of solutions for the industry. By standardizing these gateways, we're promoting interoperability and providing a path forward for developers, manufacturers, and professionals in building automation.”

“The completion of the Bluetooth® NLC to DALI Gateway Specification suite marks a significant milestone for lighting control systems,” said Neville Meijers, CEO of the Bluetooth SIG. “These standardized gateways enable seamless integration between DALI’s trusted wired systems and the leading wireless lighting standard. The collaboration highlights the power of open, industry–defined standards in driving innovation, building market confidence, and untapping the full potential of intelligent lighting systems to deliver consistent, value–added solutions for building management and occupants.”

Together, these standardized gateways extend the reach of DALI into both Bluetooth NLC and Zigbee ecosystems, ensuring interoperability across the industry’s leading wireless platforms.

“The integration of Zigbee and DALI represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of smart lighting and building automation,” said Tobin Richardson, President and CEO of the Connectivity Standards Alliance. “Zigbee’s robust, interoperable wireless mesh technology, combined with the precision and scalability of DALI’s digital lighting control, bridges the gap between field–level lighting devices and wireless IoT networks. The standardized gateways enhance flexibility, lower deployment complexity, and pave the way for more intelligent, energy–efficient buildings.”

The DALI Alliance's commitment to open, industry–defined specifications is essential to ensure the correct functionality of these gateways. Unlike closed, proprietary solutions, standardized gateways help avoid compatibility issues and ensure a consistent user experience across different systems.

For more information about the test and certification specifications for Wireless to DALI Gateways, visit the DALI Alliance website www.dali–alliance.org/wireless/gateways.html

About DALI Alliance The DALI Alliance is a global, open, not–for–profit industry organization responsible for the development and promotion of DALI technology in the lighting sector. The DALI Alliance offers an ecosystem of standards to encourage compatibility and support a growing range of lighting and building automation applications.

For more information, please contact [email protected]  

Visit our website: www.dali–alliance.org

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44b55d44–0259–40bb–82fb–3f53bf6ee174


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001156174)

End of Year Video 2025

By External Source
Dec 22 2025 (IPS-Partners)

Multiple shocks defined 2025: conflict, climate breakdown and shrinking democracy.

Multilateral institutions were tested as never before.

At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, governments argued over words while the planet heated.

Yet amid the pressure, countries agreed on steps that kept global climate cooperation alive.

A new Just Transition Mechanism promised a fairer shift to a green economy.

It pledged to protect workers, women and Indigenous peoples as fossil fuels are phased out.

Island nations warned that promises without finance mean rising seas and vanishing homelands.

Pacific voices called for stronger funding for Loss and Damage.

Across the system, humanitarian budgets were cut just as needs exploded.

Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and Myanmar pushed millions toward famine.

In many crises, lifesaving food support was reduced or halted for lack of funds.

Global alliances like CIVICUS warned that conflict, climate chaos and democratic backsliding are converging.

They cautioned that institutions built for cooperation are struggling as powerful states turn inward.

Civil society responded with proposals to put people—not geopolitics—at the centre of the UN.

At COP30, Global South leaders elevated Indigenous and Afro-descendant voices in climate talks.

They argued that dignity, fairness and planetary protection must guide a new world order.

Gen Z movements demanded those values on the streets of South Asia and Africa.

Young protesters challenged corruption, dynastic power and widening wealth gaps.

In several countries they were met with bullets, repression and mass arrests.

Researchers noted a common story: frustration with entrenched elites and “business as usual”.

When conflict and climate disasters collide, children’s education often disappears first.

Initiatives such as Education Cannot Wait and the Safe Schools Declaration fought to keep classrooms open.

Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean showed how storms can erase decades of progress in a night.

Billions of dollars in damage underscored how vulnerable economies are to climate extremes.

UN agencies warned that without urgent action, millions of children could be pushed into poverty by 2030.

Science bodies like IPBES stressed that climate change, nature loss and food insecurity are inseparable.

Global research networks worked to equip small-scale farmers for climate resilience and stable incomes.

Spiritual leaders also used their platforms to call for peace, climate action and an end to war.

From Gaza to Ukraine and beyond, moral voices insisted that civilians must never be targets.

Marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War, survivors renewed the vow: “never again”.

The message from 2025 was stark but clear.

The old order is straining—but new visions are emerging from communities on the frontlines.

Civil society, young people and Global South leadership are sketching a different future.

One rooted in justice, shared prosperity and protection of the planet.

The coming year will test whether the world is ready to listen.

 


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Rescued from Fire: the World in 2025

By Farhana Haque Rahman
TORONTO, Canada, Dec 22 2025 – Our traditional “year-ender” usually kicks off with a grim litany of world disasters and crises over the past 12 months, highlights IPS partners and contributors and culminates in a more positive-sounding finale. This time I’d like to begin on a more personal note intended also as a metaphor.

Farhana Haque Rahman

On November 20 when the UN climate talks COP30 in Belem, Brazil, looked set to spill over into extra time as delegates harassed by fossil fuel lobbyists haggled over a concluding text, fire broke out in the conference centre. Cue flames and panic.

As thousands looked for the nearest exit, a young Bangladeshi diplomat saw me and instead of joining the mass scramble, he gallantly led me through the crowds to safety. Thank you Aminul Islam Zisan for demonstrating when in crisis people can come together in unique ways.

Thankfully no one was killed in the fire; talks resumed and the Conference of Parties process survived in the form of a concluding document that could be interpreted as a small step forward in the global battle to stem the climate crisis, even while making only an oblique reference to the fossil fuels that are largely creating it.

COP’s survival was not assured given the US boycott ordered by President Donald Trump who dismissed climate change as “the greatest con job” in addressing the UN General Assembly in September.

The US absence from Belem in fact inflicted more damage to the US in terms of its global standing, just as Trump’s decision to shun the G20 talks running parallel in Johannesburg only deepened its reputational harm. Salt was diplomatically rubbed into its self-inflicted wounds by the dignity of G20 host President Cyril Ramaphosa who ignored US opposition from afar and steered adoption of a declaration addressing global challenges, notably the climate crisis.

Looking back, perhaps this was the week that quietly brought the curtain down on the Age of America. Unpredictability, chaos, violence and institutionalised cruelty are the early symptoms of the dramatic shift in 2025 towards unilateralism and protectionism.

Hundreds of Palestinians, including scores of children, have been killed since the US-brokered “truce” between Israel and Hamas began on October 11. Russian air strikes against Ukrainian civilian targets have also regularly punctuated Trump’s flip-flopping efforts to end a war he said he could finish on day one of his presidency.

Sharp cuts in US aid ordered by Trump in January have “fuelled a global humanitarian catastrophe”, according to a statement by the UN Human Rights Council on July 31. Citing two independent experts on poverty, food and human rights, the Council said: “More than 350,000 deaths stemming from the aid cuts have already been estimated, including more than 200,000 children.”

Famine is spreading with the conflict in western Sudan, and lack of finance has also led to cuts in vital UN aid to South Sudan. Over one million people caught in Myanmar’s largely forgotten civil war had their lifesaving support cut by the UN World Food Programme because of funding shortfalls.

Civicus, a global alliance of civil society organizations and activists working to strengthen citizen action, says these multiple and connected crises – conflict, climate breakdown and democratic regression – are overwhelming the international institutions designed to address the problems that states can’t or won’t resolve. US withdrawal from global bodies threatens to worsen this crisis in international cooperation.

But as CIVICUS’s 2025 State of Civil Society Report outlines, civil society has ideas about how to save the UN by putting people at its heart: a theme embraced at COP30 by Open Society Foundations President Binaifer Nowrojee who endorsed Brazil’s democratic leadership for elevating Indigenous and Afro-descendant voices and bringing human rights back to the centre of climate action.

In this rapidly shifting world order, Nowrojee sees the Global South stepping forward with new ideas and a new vision rooted in dignity, fairness, and protection of the planet.

Arguably the most important agreement emerging from COP30 was the Just Transition Mechanism which aims to ensure fair development of a global green economy, protecting the rights of all people, including workers, women and Indigenous people.

Coral Pasisi, Director of Climate Change and Sustainability for the Pacific Community (SPC), highlighted at COP30 how critical the situation has become for island nations experiencing accelerating climate impacts and hoping for meaningful breakthroughs in Belem. She raised the need for stronger support from developed countries for Loss and Damage.

The Gen Z demonstrators who have rocked regimes in South Asia and Africa are certainly stepping up with their visions for fairer futures for all, their protests aimed against nepotism and corruption among entrenched elites. They have been met with bullets in Bangladesh last year, and in Nepal – where the government was forced to resign in September – as well as Tanzania where hundreds were reported killed. Gen Z protests this year also rocked Indonesia, the Philippines and Morocco.

As Jan Lundius, a Swedish researcher, wrote in IPS: “Even though specific incidents triggered these upheavals, they were all due to long-term, shared grievances evolving from stark wealth gaps, rampant nepotism, and unlimited corruption. Above all, youngsters protested against members of powerful dynasties, favouring a wealthy and discredited political elite.”

A combination of conflict and climate disasters can have disastrous long-term consequences, particularly for children’s education. Initiatives supported by IPS like Education Cannot Wait (ECW) and the Safe Schools Declaration focus on providing quality, inclusive education to crisis-affected children to prevent long-term cycles of poverty and instability.

Hurricane Melissa which swept through the Caribbean in October served as a harsh reminder that 5.9 million children and adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean could be pushed into poverty by 2030 due to loss of education as a result of climate change if governments do not intervene soon, according to UNICEF.

The World Bank estimated the physical damage inflicted by Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica at some $8.8 billion, or 41% of the country’s 2024 GDP.

However the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has also warned governments that they are underestimating or ignoring the inextricable links between climate change, nature loss and food security. Its latest assessment, approved by nearly 150 countries meeting in Windhoek, Namibia, warned that biodiversity is declining everywhere, largely as a result of human actions.

CGIAR, a global research partnership focused on food security, is facing a very different world from when it was founded nearly 50 years ago in terms of having to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and new conflicts, according to CGIAR Chief Scientist Dr Sandra Milach. A major focus is on equipping 500 million small-scale producers for climate resilience to protect their livelihoods and increase stable incomes.

A year-ender wouldn’t be complete in the run-up to festive celebrations without at least a mention of the major religious figures to dominate the news.

Pope Francis, one of the most outspoken pontiffs in modern times, died on Easter Monday. Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost, 69, became his successor, the first North American elected to the role. Choosing to be known as Pope Leo XIV he called for an end to the ‘barbarity’ of the war in Gaza. He also took aim at climate sceptics and appealed for urgent actions to be taken by world leaders at COP30.

The Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, turned 90 in exile in India, and also made a call for peace in the world. To the delight of his followers, he made clear that he would be reincarnated and that only his trusted inner circle of monks would have the “sole authority” to locate his successor. China swiftly rebuffed his declaration, saying his successor must be approved by Beijing.

In 2025 the world marked 80 years since the end of the Second World War. Minoru Harada, a Buddhist monk and head of Soka Gakkai, recalled his childhood experience of the fire-bombing of Tokyo and pledged his organisation’s determination that no one should have to endure the horrors of war.

Farhana Haque Rahman is Senior Vice President of IPS Inter Press Service and Executive Director IPS Noram; she served as the elected Director General of IPS from 2015-2019. A journalist and communications expert, she is a former senior official of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Fund for Agricultural Development.

IPS UN Bureau

 


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South Korea’s Jeju (CJU)-Seoul Gimpo (GMP) is the World’s Busiest Airline Route in 2025, Latest OAG Data Reveals

An average of 39,000 seats per day operate on the world’s top route

Key findings:

  • 14.4 million seats were scheduled between Jeju (CJU)–Seoul Gimpo (GMP) in 2025.
  • Asia Pacific dominates, accounting for 9/10 of the top routes globally.
  • Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) continues to be the busiest cross–border route.
  • Jeddah (JED) – Riyadh (RUH) is the fastest growing top ten route YoY: +13% seats vs 2024.

LONDON, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OAG, the leading data platform for the global travel industry, today revealed its ranking of 2025’s Busiest Airline Routes. The analysis is powered by OAG's Global Airline Schedules Data and provides an overview of global route performance and trends.

Jeju to Seoul Gimpo is the busiest airline route of 2025 with 14.4 million seats scheduled, a modest 1% increase versus 2024. There is room yet for growth on this route, which is still 17% short of regaining its capacity level of 2019. Seven carriers operate on this intensely competitive route.

The second and third placed routes are both in Japan: Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) – Tokyo Haneda (HND) and Fukuoka (FUK) – Tokyo Haneda (HND) with 12.1M and 11.5M seats respectively.

The top ten comprises entirely of domestic flights, and Asia Pacific dominates with 9 out of 10 being in the region. The one route outside of Asia Pacific is fifth placed Jeddah (JED) – Riyadh (RUH), which has seen the fastest growth of any top ten route. 9.8M seats on JED–RUH represent annual growth of 13%. Fourth placed Hanoi (HAN) to Ho Chi Minh (SGN) also grew by 4% YoY and tenth placed Shanghai (SHA) – Shenzhen (SZX) has seen capacity increase by 5% to move into the top ten from its eleventh spot last year.

Focusing on cross–border flights, Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) is the busiest route of 2025 with 6.8M seats followed by Cairo (CAI) – Jeddah (JED) with 5.8M seats and Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Singapore Changi (SIN) with 5.6M.

OAG’s Chief Analyst, John Grant commented: “The importance and scale of these routes cannot be underestimated and highlights the strength of emergent markets around the world. For Asia Pacific to be home to nine out of the ten largest routes in the world, all of which are domestic, is a remarkable indication of how these routes have recovered in recent times and their significance to the airlines operating those sectors.”

Find global and regional rankings of the world’s busiest airline routes in 2025 and methodology on OAG’s website.

About OAG

OAG is a leading data platform for the global travel industry offering an industry–first single source for supply, demand, and pricing data.         

Media Enquiries: [email protected]

For more information on OAG visit http://www.oag.com/busiest–routes–world–2025

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7550a475–fbd9–437b–a8f0–a73f0eacaa8a


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9604658)

Selon les dernières données d’OAG, la liaison aérienne entre Jeju (CJU) et Séoul Gimpo (GMP) en Corée du Sud sera la plus fréquentée au monde en 2025

En moyenne, 39 000 sièges par jour sont exploités sur la ligne la plus fréquentée au monde

Principales conclusions :

  • 14,4 millions de sièges ont été programmés entre Jeju (CJU) et Séoul Gimpo (GMP) en 2025.
  • La région Asie–Pacifique domine en totalisant 9/10e des principales liaisons mondiales.
  • La liaison Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) reste la ligne transfrontalière la plus fréquentée.
  • La liaison Djeddah (JED) – Riyad (RUH) est celle qui connaît la plus forte croissance en glissement annuel parmi les dix principales liaisons : +13 % de sièges par rapport à 2024.

LONDRES, 22 déc. 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OAG, première plateforme de données de l’industrie mondiale du voyage, publie ce jour son classement 2025 des lignes aériennes les plus fréquentées. Cette analyse s’appuie sur les données mondiales relatives aux horaires des compagnies aériennes fournies par OAG et offre une vue d’ensemble des performances et des tendances mondiales en matière de liaisons aériennes.

Avec 14,4 millions de sièges programmés, la liaison entre Jeju et Séoul Gimpo est la plus fréquentée en 2025, et affiche une légère augmentation de 1 % par rapport à 2024. Une marge de progression demeure toutefois possible sur cette ligne qui accuse encore un déficit de 17 % par rapport à son niveau de capacité de 2019. Cette liaison très concurrentielle est desservie par sept compagnies aériennes.

Les deuxième et troisième places sont toutes deux occupées par des liaisons japonaises : Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) – Tokyo Haneda (HND) et Fukuoka (FUK) – Tokyo Haneda (HND), qui totalisent respectivement 12,1 millions et 11,5 millions de sièges.

Le palmarès des dix premières places est entièrement composé de vols intérieurs, et la région Asie–Pacifique domine avec 9 vols sur 10. La seule liaison hors Asie–Pacifique est celle qui relie Djeddah (JED) à Riyad (RUH) et qui occupe la cinquième place après avoir connu la croissance la plus rapide parmi les dix premières liaisons. Les 9,8 millions de sièges sur la liaison JED–RUH représentent une croissance annuelle de 13 %. À La quatrième place, la liaison Hanoï (HAN) vers Hô Chi Minh–Ville (SGN) a également connu une croissance de 4 % en glissement annuel, tandis qu’à la dixième place, la liaison Shanghai (SHA) vers Shenzhen (SZX) a vu sa capacité augmenter de 5 %, grimpant ainsi de la onzième place l’année dernière pour accéder au top dix du classement cette année.

En ce qui concerne les vols transfrontaliers, la liaison Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) sera la plus fréquentée en 2025 avec 6,8 millions de sièges, suivie par la liaison Le Caire (CAI) – Djeddah (JED) avec 5,8 millions de sièges et la liaison Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Singapour Changi (SIN) avec 5,6 millions de sièges.

John Grant, analyste en chef d’OAG, a déclaré : « L’importance et l’ampleur de ces liaisons ne doivent pas être sous–estimées car elles soulignent la vigueur des marchés émergents à travers le monde. Le fait que la région Asie–Pacifique abrite neuf des dix plus grandes liaisons aériennes au monde, toutes domestiques, témoigne clairement de la reprise récente de ces liaisons et de leur importance pour les compagnies aériennes qui les exploitent. »

Retrouvez le classement mondial et régional des lignes aériennes les plus fréquentées au monde en 2025 ainsi que la méthodologie utilisée sur le site Internet d’OAG.

À propos d’OAG

OAG est une plateforme de données de premier plan pour l’industrie mondiale du voyage, et constitue une source unique et inédite de données rapportées à son offre, sa demande et sa tarification.

Demandes médias : [email protected]

Pour en savoir plus sur OAG, consultez le site Internet : http://www.oag.com/busiest–routes–world–2025

Une photo annexée au présent communiqué est disponible à l’adresse suivante : https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7550a475–fbd9–437b–a8f0–a73f0eacaa8a


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9605181)

Jeju (CJU) in Südkorea und Seoul Gimpo (GMP) sind laut den neuesten Daten der OAG die weltweit verkehrsreichste Flugstrecke im Jahr 2025

Durchschnittlich 39.000 Sitzplätze pro Tag werden auf der weltweit führenden Flugstrecke angeboten

Wichtige Ergebnisse:

  • Für das Jahr 2025 waren 14,4 Millionen Sitzplätze zwischen Jeju (CJU) und Seoul Gimpo (GMP) vorgesehen.
  • Der asiatisch–pazifische Raum dominiert, mit 9 von 10 der weltweit führenden Strecken auf seinem Konto.
  • Hongkong (HKG) – Taipeh (TPE) bleibt weiterhin die verkehrsreichste grenzüberschreitende Flugstrecke.
  • Jeddah (JED) – Riad (RUH) ist die am schnellsten wachsende Strecke unter den Top Ten im Jahresvergleich: +13 % Sitzplätze gegenüber 2024.

LONDON, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OAG, die führende Datenplattform für die globale Reisebranche, hat heute ihre Rangliste der verkehrsreichsten Flugstrecken des Jahres 2025 veröffentlicht. Die Analyse basiert auf den globalen Flugplandaten der OAG und bietet einen Überblick über die weltweite Streckenleistung und Trends.

Jeju nach Seoul Gimpo ist die verkehrsreichste Flugstrecke des Jahres 2025 mit 14,4 Millionen geplanten Sitzplätzen, was einem leichten Anstieg von 1 % gegenüber 2024 entspricht. Auf dieser Strecke besteht noch Wachstumspotenzial, da sie noch 17 % unter ihrem Kapazitätsniveau von 2019 liegt. Auf dieser stark umkämpften Strecke sind sieben Fluggesellschaften tätig.

Die zweit– und drittplatzierten Strecken befinden sich beide in Japan: Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) – Tokio Haneda (HND) und Fukuoka (FUK) – Tokio Haneda (HND) mit 12,1 Millionen bzw. 11,5 Millionen Sitzplätzen.

Die Top Ten bestehen ausschließlich aus Inlandsflügen, wobei der asiatisch–pazifische Raum mit 9 von 10 Flügen dominiert. Die einzige Route außerhalb des asiatisch–pazifischen Raums ist die fünftplatzierte Strecke Jeddah (JED) – Riad (RUH), die das schnellste Wachstum aller Top–Ten–Strecken verzeichnet. 9,8 Millionen Sitzplätze auf JED–RUH entsprechen einem jährlichen Wachstum von 13 %. Die viertplatzierte Strecke Hanoi (HAN) nach Ho–Chi–Minh–Stadt (SGN) verzeichnete ebenfalls ein Wachstum von 4 % im Vergleich zum Vorjahr, und die zehntplatzierte Strecke Shanghai (SHA) – Shenzhen (SZX) verzeichnete einen Kapazitätsanstieg von 5 % und rückte damit von ihrem elften Platz im Vorjahr in die Top Ten vor.

Mit Blick auf grenzüberschreitende Flüge ist Hongkong (HKG) – Taipeh (TPE) mit 6,8 Millionen Sitzplätzen die verkehrsreichste Strecke des Jahres 2025, gefolgt von Kairo (CAI) – Dschidda (JED) mit 5,8 Millionen Sitzplätzen und Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Singapur Changi (SIN) mit 5,6 Millionen Sitzplätzen.

Der Chefanalyst der OAG, John Grant, äußerte sich wie folgt: „Die Bedeutung und der Umfang dieser Strecken dürfen nicht unterschätzt werden und unterstreichen die Stärke der aufstrebenden Märkte weltweit. Dass neun der zehn größten Strecken der Welt im asiatisch–pazifischen Raum liegen und alle davon Inlandsstrecken sind, ist ein bemerkenswerter Hinweis darauf, wie sich diese Strecken in letzter Zeit erholt haben und welche Bedeutung sie für die Fluggesellschaften haben, die diese Sektoren bedienen.“

Die globalen und regionalen Rankings der weltweit verkehrsreichsten Flugstrecken im Jahr 2025 sowie die Methodik finden Sie auf der Website von OAG.

Über OAG

OAG ist ein führender Datendienstleister für die globale Reiseindustrie und bietet eine branchenweit einmalige zentrale Quelle für Angebots–, Nachfrage– und Preisdaten.

Medienanfragen: [email protected]

Weitere Informationen zu OAG finden Sie unter http://www.oag.com/busiest–routes–world–2025

Ein Foto zu dieser Mitteilung finden Sie unter https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7550a475–fbd9–437b–a8f0–a73f0eacaa8a


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9605181)

Jeju (CJU) – Seoul Gimpo (GMP) na Coreia do Sul é a Rota Aérea Mais Movimentada do Mundo de 2025, de Acordo com a OAG

Uma média de 39.000 passageiros diários viajam na principal rota do mundo

Principais conclusões:

  • 14,4 milhões de assentos programados para a rota Jeju (CJU) – Seoul Gimpo (GMP) em 2025.
  • Domínio da Ásia–Pacífico, com 9/10 das principais rotas do mundo.
  • Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) continua sendo a rota transfronteiriça mais movimentada.
  • Jeddah (JED) – Riade (RUH) é a rota que mais cresce nas Dez Mais Ano a Ano: +13% de assentos comparado com 2024.

LONDRES, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OAG, a principal plataforma de dados da indústria global de viagens, divulgou o ranking anual das Rotas Aéreas Mais Movimentada de 2025. A análise toma por base os Dados de Programações de Companhias Aéreas Globais da OAG e oferece uma visão geral do desempenho e das tendências das rotas globais.

Jeju – Seul Gimpo é a rota aérea mais movimentada de 2025, com 14,4 milhões de assentos programados, um modesto aumento de 1% em relação a 2024. Ainda há espaço para crescimento nessa rota, que ainda está 17% aquém de alcançar o nível de capacidade de 2019. Sete transportadoras operam nesta rota intensamente competitiva.

A segunda e a terceira rotas classificadas estão no Japão: Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) – Tokyo Haneda (HND), e Fukuoka (FUK) – Tokyo Haneda (HND) com 12,1 milhões e 11,5 milhões de assentos, respectivamente.

As dez primeiras são compostas inteiramente de voos domésticos, e a Ásia–Pacífico domina com 9 em cada 10 na região. A única rota fora da Ásia–Pacífico é a quinta colocada Jeddah (JED) – Riyadh (RUH), que teve o crescimento mais rápido de qualquer rota entre as dez principais. 9,8 milhões de assentos da rota JED – RUH representam um crescimento anual de 13%. A quarta colocado Hanói (HAN) – Ho Chi Minh (SGN) também cresceu 4% Ano a Ano e a décima colocada Xangai (SHA) – Shenzhen (SZX) teve um aumento de capacidade de 5%, de 11o lugar no ano passado.

Com foco em voos transfronteiriços, Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) é a rota mais movimentada de 2025, com 6,8 milhões de assentos, seguida pela Cairo (CAI) – Jeddah (JED), com 5,8 milhões de assentos, e Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Singapura Changi (SIN), com 5,6 milhões.

O Analista Chefe da OAG, John Grant, comentou: “A importância e a escala dessas rotas não podem ser subestimadas e destacam a força dos mercados emergentes em todo o mundo. Para a Ásia–Pacífico, com nove das dez maiores rotas do mundo, todas domésticas, é uma indicação notável de como essas rotas se recuperaram nos últimos tempos e da sua importância para as companhias aéreas que operam esses setores.”

Veja os rankings globais e regionais das rotas aéreas mais movimentadas do mundo em 2025 e metodologia no site da OAG.

Sobre a OAG

A OAG é uma plataforma de dados líder da indústria global de viagens, oferecendo uma fonte única de dados de oferta, demanda e preços.

Consultas da Mídia: [email protected]

Para obter mais informações sobre a OAG visite http://www.oag.com/busiest–routes–world–2025

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9605181)

Datavault AI Inc. Announces Issuance of Two Foundational U.S. Patents Advancing Blockchain-Driven Content Licensing and Tokenized Monetization

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN — Datavault AI Inc. (“Datavault AI” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: DVLT), a pioneer in AI–driven data valuation, monetization, and quantum–encrypted RWA tokenization, today announced the issuance of two key U.S. patents that significantly bolster its intellectual property portfolio in blockchain–based content management and monetization.

The newly issued patents cover groundbreaking systems and methods for secure content licensing and tokenized monetization using blockchain technology and smart contracts:

  • U.S. Patent (derived from Application Publication 2022/0318853): A system, method, and platform for monetizing digital content through blockchain–managed tokens. The technology automatically identifies content usage, verifies licensing via smart contracts, enforces compliance, and distributes fees according to predefined terms – enabling seamless, tamper–proof revenue sharing for creators and rights holders.
  • U.S. Patent (derived from Application Publication 2019/0155997): A comprehensive content licensing platform utilizing blockchain ledgers and secure identifiers (including patented inaudible tone integration) to register, track, license, and monetize creative works. The system supports mechanical, performance, synchronization, and micro–licensing rights while ensuring transparent royalty distribution and enforcement across global networks.

These patents directly enhance Datavault AI’s core patented technologies, including Sumerian® Crypto Anchors, DataScore, and DataValue AI agents. By combining blockchain immutability with AI–driven valuation and quantum–resistant encryption, Datavault AI is uniquely positioned to tokenize intellectual property, creative content, and data assets as secure RWAs – unlocking fractional ownership, instant settlement, and global liquidity for traditionally illiquid assets.

“The issuance of these patents represents a major milestone in our mission to empower creators and enterprises with trusted, scalable data and content monetization,” said Nathaniel T. Bradley, CEO of Datavault AI Inc. “In an era where digital content and data represent trillions in untapped value, our technologies provide the security, transparency, and automation needed to transform intellectual property into tokenized real–world assets. These patents strengthen our competitive moat and accelerate our leadership in the convergence of AI, blockchain, and RWA tokenization.”

“These patents create significant barriers to entry and robust intellectual property protections for Datavault AI, while also enabling new licensing opportunities. The continued issuance of these patents provides the foundational infrastructure for our Information Data Exchange and forthcoming Elements, NIL, and political exchanges—all built on our exclusive, quantum–secured platform,” stated Joshua Paugh, Chief Intellectual Property Officer of Datavault AI. “This includes quantum chains, quantum–grade encryption, and our unmatched command of AI combined with unprecedented blockchain technologies.”

Market Impact

The global data monetization market is projected to exceed $7 billion in 2025, growing rapidly toward $17 billion by 2033. The broader digital content and licensing industry is valued at over $369 billion globally, while real–world asset tokenization has already surpassed $30 billion in on–chain value in 2025, with analysts projecting the global tokenized real world asset market to reach over $16 trillion by 2030. Datavault AI’s expanded patent portfolio positions the company at the forefront of these converging markets, enabling secure tokenization of content rights, creative works, and proprietary data as high–value RWAs.

These advancements complement Datavault AI’s existing partnerships and initiatives in sports data monetization, global event–driven licensing, and quantum–secured blockchain infrastructure.

About Datavault AI

Datavault AI™ (Nasdaq: DVLT) is leading the way in AI driven data experiences, valuation and monetization of assets in the Web 3.0 environment. The Company’s cloud–based platform provides comprehensive solutions with a collaborative focus in its Acoustic Science and Data Science Divisions. Datavault AI’s Acoustic Science Division features WiSA®, ADIO® and Sumerian® patented technologies and industry–first foundational spatial and multichannel wireless HD sound transmission technologies with IP covering audio timing, synchronization and multi–channel interference cancellation. The Data Science Division leverages the power of Web 3.0 and high–performance computing to provide solutions for experiential data perception, valuation and secure monetization. Datavault AI’s cloud–based platform provides comprehensive solutions serving multiple industries, including HPC software licensing for sports & entertainment, events & venues, biotech, education, fintech, real estate, healthcare, energy and more. The Information Data Exchange® (IDE) enables Digital Twins, licensing of name, image and likeness (NIL) by securely attaching physical real–world objects to immutable metadata objects, fostering responsible AI with integrity. Datavault AI’s technology suite is completely customizable and offers AI and Machine Learning (ML) automation, third–party integration, detailed analytics and data, marketing automation and advertising monitoring. The Company is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Learn more about Datavault AI at www.dvlt.ai.

Forward–Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward–looking statements” (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and other securities laws) about Datavault AI Inc. (“Datavault AI,” the “Company,” “us,” “our,” or “we”) and our industry that involve risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward–looking statements because they contain words, such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “shall,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “goal,” “objective,” “seeks,” “likely” or “continue” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. The absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward–looking. Such forward–looking statements, including, but not limited to: statements regarding future events; Datavault AI’s potential to tokenize RWAs, including metals, geothermal resources, sugar, cotton, intellectual property, creative content, and data assets; the commercial potential and anticipated market impact of our patented technologies; our ability to successfully integrate the newly issued patents referred to in this press release with our other patented technologies, including Sumerian® Crypto Anchors, DataScore, and DataValue AI agents; our ability to monitor potential infringement of and enforce our patented technologies, including the newly issued patents referred to in this press release; and the projected growth of the global data monetization and real–world asset tokenization markets, are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company and its management, are inherently uncertain. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these and other forward–looking statements contained herein.

Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward–looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the following: changes in economic, market, or regulatory conditions; uncertainties regarding valuation methodologies and third–party reports; risks relating to evolving regulatory frameworks applicable to tokenized assets; risks associated with technological development and integration; the ability of Datavault AI to develop and successfully market technologies; the risk that the potential technologies that Datavault AI develops may not progress or receive required approvals within expected timelines or at all; risks relating to uncertainty regarding regulatory pathways; the risk that Datavault AI has overestimated the size of the target market, willingness to adopt new technologies, or partnerships; risks that prior results may not be replicated; regulatory and intellectual–property risks; and other risks and uncertainties as more fully described in Datavault AI’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including its Annual Report on Form 10–K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and other filings that Datavault AI makes from time to time with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, and could cause actual results to vary from expectations.

The forward–looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Datavault AI undertakes no obligation to update any forward–looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Datavault AI may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in its forward–looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward–looking statements. Datavault AI’s forward–looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures or investments it may make.

Industry and Market Data

Within this press release, we reference information and statistics regarding the market for our products. We have obtained some of this information and statistics from various independent third–party sources, including independent industry publications, reports by market research firms and other independent sources. Some data and other information contained in this press release are also based on management’s estimates and calculations, which are derived from our review and interpretation of internal surveys and independent sources. Data regarding the industries in which we compete and our market position and market share within these industries are inherently imprecise and are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties beyond our control, but we believe they generally indicate size, position and market share within this industry. While we believe such information is reliable, we have not independently verified any third–party information. While we believe our internal company research and estimates are reliable, such research and estimates have not been verified by any independent source. In addition, assumptions and estimates of our and our industries’ future performance are necessarily subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors. These and other factors could cause our future performance to differ materially from our assumptions and estimates. As a result, you should be aware that market, ranking and other similar industry data included in this press release, and estimates and beliefs based on that data, may not be reliable.

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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9615834)

EBC Financial Group’s Notes on Nigeria Food Inflation as It Shows Clear Signs of Relief

Nigeria’s food inflation shows clear signs of easing, reshaping the inflation outlook and shifting risks for policy, FX and local asset markets.

LAGOS, Nigeria, Dec. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EBC Financial Group (“EBC”) notes that Nigeria’s food inflation is showing clear signs of relief after an extended period of intense price pressure, pointing to a potential shift in the country’s inflation trajectory. Recent official data indicates a marked slowdown in food price growth, supported by improved domestic supply, seasonal harvest effects and the rebasing of the consumer price index. While food prices remain elevated in absolute terms, the pace of increase has moderated meaningfully from last year’s extremes, with food inflation easing to 11.08 % year–on–year in November 2025, down from 13.12 % in October 2025 and far below 39.93 % in November 2024.

This development is significant for Nigeria’s broader macro outlook, given the central role of food inflation in driving headline inflation, constraining policy flexibility and shaping risk sentiment across currency and local asset markets. Headline inflation also eased to 14.45 % in November 2025, marking the eighth consecutive monthly decline and the lowest annual rate in several years.

“This is important because food inflation has been the core source of pressure in Nigeria’s inflation story,” said David Barrett, Chief Executive at EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd.

Food Price Pressures Begin to Ease

The moderation in food inflation reflects improving supply dynamics across key staples, supported by harvest inflows and better market availability, which have helped temper price pressure compared with previous months. Food inflation at 11.08 % in November 2025 marked another year–on–year decline from earlier in 2025, part of a five–month consecutive slowdown. In addition to the annual slowdown, food prices rose 1.13 % on a month–on–month basis in November 2025, compared with a –0.37 % month–on–month change in October 2025, indicating that while annual inflation eased, average prices still showed modest increases during the month.

Base effects linked to the CPI rebasing also contribute to lower annual readings, but the persistence of multi–month declines shows genuine relief in inflation momentum rather than a purely mechanical adjustment. “For markets, the key question is whether this easing proves durable,” Barrett said. “One or two softer prints are not enough. Persistence is what changes positioning.”

Policy Constraints Start to Loosen
Food inflation has long limited Nigeria’s policy options, forcing authorities to maintain a defensive monetary stance to anchor inflation expectations. Headline inflation’s decline to 14.45 % in November 2025 from 16.05 % in October 2025 reduces upward pressure on overall prices and creates room for more balanced monetary policy deliberations.

Compared with global peers where disinflation has unlocked monetary easing cycles, Nigeria’s structural inflation volatility has kept policymakers constrained. A sustained slowdown in food inflation helps anchor expectations and reduces the risk of renewed tightening. “The central bank does not need inflation to fall sharply,” Barrett said. “It needs confidence that the trend is turning, and food inflation is central to that confidence.”

Markets Remain Cautious but Alert
Market reaction has so far been restrained. The naira continues to reflect broader liquidity and capital flow dynamics, while local bond yields still embed a premium for inflation uncertainty. Equity markets have shown selective interest, particularly in consumer–related sectors, but positioning remains cautious amid lingering risks. The improved inflation profile, including the eighth consecutive monthly decline in headline inflation, has been highlighted in economic commentary.

This apparent calm masks ongoing reassessment beneath the surface, with investors watching closely to see whether easing food inflation feeds into broader disinflation or stalls once seasonal effects fade. “Quiet markets do not mean inactive markets,” Barrett said. “Positioning is adjusting as investors test whether this shift is real.”

Outlook: What Traders Should Watch Next
Looking ahead, the durability of food inflation relief will be the key driver of Nigeria’s macro and market outlook over the next 6 to 18 months. Traders should monitor post–harvest price behaviour, supply chain stability, and the impact of exchange–rate movements on imported food costs and production inputs. Policy communication will be critical. Even subtle changes in tone around inflation risks, liquidity management, or growth priorities could prompt repricing across FX and rates. External factors, including shifts in global monetary conditions and emerging–market risk appetite, will also shape capital flows and domestic liquidity dynamics. “The risk is assuming the adjustment is complete,” Barrett said. “If food inflation continues to ease, markets may have to reprice more quickly than expected.”

For more information, visit www.ebc.com.

Disclaimer: This material is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or advice from EBC Financial Group and all its entities (“EBC”). Trading Forex and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on margin carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Before trading, you should carefully consider your trading objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and consult an independent financial advisor if necessary. Statistics or past investment performance are not a guarantee of future performance. EBC is not liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.

About EBC Financial Group  
Founded in London’s esteemed financial district, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is a global brand known for its expertise in financial brokerage and asset management. Through its regulated entities operating across major financial jurisdictions—including the UK, Australia, the Cayman Islands, Mauritius, and others—EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access a wide range of global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, shares, and indices. 

Recognised with multiple awards, EBC is committed to upholding ethical standards and these subsidiaries are licensed and regulated within their respective jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA); EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia's Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC); EBC Financial (MU) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission Mauritius (FSC); EBC Financial Group SA (Pty) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).

At the core of EBC are a team of industry veterans with over 40 years of experience in major financial institutions. Having navigated key economic cycles from the Plaza Accord and 2015 Swiss franc crisis to the market upheavals of the COVID–19 pandemic. We foster a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor relationship is handled with the utmost seriousness it deserves.    

As the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, EBC provides specialised services across Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. Through its partnership with United to Beat Malaria, the company contributes to global health initiatives. EBC also supports the 'What Economists Really Do' public engagement series by Oxford University's Department of Economics, helping to demystify economics and its application to major societal challenges, fostering greater public understanding and dialogue.   

https://www.ebc.com/ 

Media Contact: 

Saiful Shamsudin
Global PR Executive 
[email protected]

Aldric Tinker Toyad
Global PR Lead
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/21a39066–6b92–4eb3–96fc–773256f2931d


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9615785)