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EarthDaily Selected by National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) for Commercial Optical Earth Observation Contract

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., May 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EarthDaily Analytics (EarthDaily) today announced it has been selected by the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to support the use of commercial multispectral Earth observation imagery under the Strategic Commercial Enhancements (SCE) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO). The contract, valued at $1.2 million, underscores the growing role of commercial providers in supporting U.S. government mission needs.

EarthDaily will provide scientifically calibrated multispectral imagery and remote sensing capabilities via modeling, simulation, and data evaluation, leveraging the EarthDaily Constellation currently on orbit as well as additional satellites launching throughout 2026, EarthDaily will demonstrate its capabilities through end-to-end tasking, collection, and product dissemination, and respond to product ordering and delivery requests from the NRO and its partners.

“This selection reflects a broader shift toward integrating commercially available, high-quality Earth observation data into operational decision-making,” said Eric von Eckartsberg, Chief Revenue Officer, EarthDaily. “Our focus is on delivering consistent, trusted measurement that enables faster, more confident decisions in complex environments.”

The award represents an important step in establishing a scalable contracting framework for future U.S. government demand, positioning EarthDaily to support a wider range of mission applications as commercial Earth observation becomes increasingly embedded in national security workflows.

The selection aligns with the EarthDaily Constellation, a next-generation optical Earth observation system designed to deliver daily global coverage across 22 spectral bands, with full operational capability expected later this year. The constellation is purpose-built for broad-area change detection, enabling repeatable, consistent measurement at scale and supporting AI-ready analytics for both government and commercial users.

Through this award, EarthDaily continues to expand its role as a trusted commercial provider of Earth observation data and analytics, supporting national security and other high-impact applications.

About EarthDaily

EarthDaily is a global Earth observation company focused on delivering science-grade data and analytics designed for broad-area change detection and decision-centric intelligence. With the EarthDaily Constellation, the company is building a foundation for daily, globally consistent Earth intelligence to support governments and enterprises operating in complex, high-impact environments.

To learn more, visit earthdaily.com and follow EarthDaily on LinkedIn (@EarthDaily) and X (@EarthDailyA).

Contacts
Tanya Cross
Vice President, Global Marketing and Communications
EarthDaily
[email protected]

Alliance Advisors IR
[email protected]

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9713119)

Zoom Recognizes the Rise of AI-Powered Businesses of One with Inaugural Solopreneur 50

SAN JOSE, Calif., May 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zoom (NASDAQ: ZM) today announced the inaugural Zoom Solopreneur 50, a recognition and grant program honoring AI-powered businesses of one across the United States, and released new data from its “Rise of the Solopreneur” report. Together, the program and research highlight how independent professionals are using artificial intelligence to build and scale sustainable businesses without traditional teams, reflecting a broader shift in how work is structured and executed.

For decades, small business growth has been defined by increasing overhead and scaling operations through headcount. The emergence of AI-powered solopreneurs represents a different model: individuals using artificial intelligence and integrated platforms to replace functions historically handled by full teams. Instead of managing people and tools, these operators are assembling capabilities and automating communication, production, and workflows to run efficient, revenue-generating businesses independently.

This shift toward AI-powered businesses of one is enabled by a new class of platforms designed to reduce operational overhead and automate execution. Zoom’s platform, built as a system of action for modern work, helps solopreneurs turn conversations into completed work by embedding artificial intelligence directly into communication, workflows, and customer interactions.

“Headcount used to be the measure of scale,” said Kimberly Storin, Chief Marketing Officer at Zoom. “But AI is decoupling growth from hiring. We’re seeing a new generation of solopreneurs operate with the capabilities of full teams without the overhead. The Zoom Solopreneur 50 is an early signal of where entrepreneurship is going: smaller, faster, and fundamentally more efficient.”

About the Zoom Solopreneur 50
Selected from nearly 3,000 U.S.-based applicants, the Zoom Solopreneur 50 recognizes individuals who leverage AI and digital tools to turn creative ideas into outcomes. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship awards, the program evaluated applicants based on originality, performance, impact, authenticity, and influence, focusing on how businesses are built rather than just how big they get.

Key details:

50 honorees selected from ~3,000 U.S. applicants
5 grant recipients awarded $30,000 each
12 industries represented, including technology, wellness, education, and professional services

The following five honorees will each receive $30,000 grants to support continued growth:

Cierra Gross, Worklution: Connects face‑to‑face with clients through video meetings, enabling strong relationship building, critical to her deeply engaged clientele.

Derek McCracken, The Owl’s Nest: Uses AI note capturing tools to collaborate with Ambassador Teachers nationwide and gather real‑time classroom feedback while staying fully present during conversations.

Angela Morrison, Cakes by Angela: Runs her business entirely from a home office through digital tools, enabling her to build a global supply chain and an international audience and customer base.

Michael Odokara-Okigbo, NKENNE: Collaborates with teams, partners, and customers across five countries through integrated technologies and AI tools, enabling global product development, sales, and training as a single connected, distributed organization.

Dana Snyder, Positive Equation: Hosts virtual meetings, workshops, and intensives using AI-first collaboration tools, enabling her to deliver high‑touch education and scale impact globally without a large team.

Honorees were selected by a jury composed of leaders from business and academia:

Patrick Hendren, VP of Legal & Policy at Upwork
Lisa Scheiring, Global SMB Advisor at Zoom
Kim Storin, Chief Marketing Officer at Zoom
Selma Studer, COO of Capital Department
Anita Woolley, Professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business

The full list of honorees is available at: www.zoom.com/solo50

The Role of AI in Solopreneurship

There are more than 30 million small businesses in the U.S., and 82% operate without employees (US Chamber of Commerce). A growing share is being built with AI at the core. These businesses are not smaller versions of traditional companies—they are fundamentally different in how they operate, scale, and deliver value. Instead of hiring teams, solopreneurs are assembling capabilities—using AI to handle operations, communication, and production.

This shift is driven by platforms that integrate communication and execution into a single workflow. Zoom’s platform, including Zoom Workplace and Zoom AI Companion, is designed as a system of action that captures context from conversations and automatically generates next steps, follow-ups, and deliverables without requiring additional tools.

For solopreneurs, that means:

Client conversations that automatically generate next steps and follow-ups through Zoom AI Companion
Meetings that convert into deliverables and decisions within Zoom Workplace
AI embedded directly into communication workflows, eliminating the need for separate tools

As more professionals seek tools to run a business solo with AI, integrated platforms that combine communication, automation, and execution are emerging as a primary requirement. Instead of managing multiple tools, one person can run an entire business from a single workflow.

New Report: The Rise of the Solopreneur

To highlight the growth and preferences of this influential group, Zoom released the inaugural “Rise of the Solopreneur” report, based on insights from the nearly 3,000 applicants, offering a comprehensive look at this emerging segment of the workforce.

Most Solopreneurs Are Already Running Revenue-Generating Businesses:

62% of applicants are operating active, revenue-generating businesses
Median founding year is 2022, indicating rapid, recent growth
Nearly half cite prior professional or industry experience

AI Is Replacing Core Business Functions

Client communication and meetings: 82%
Automation and operational efficiency: 78%
Collaboration with partners and contractors: 71%
Delivering services or products virtually: 46%
Content creation and audience building: 46%

Adoption Spans Industries and Geographies

California (13%) and New York (10%) lead by state, followed by Georgia (9%) and Texas (9%)
Atlanta leads all cities (8%), followed by New York (7%)
Representation spans 12 industries, led by Services & Consulting (20%), Health & Wellness (14%), and Social Impact (12%)

Together, the data indicate that solopreneurship is shifting from a side-hustle model to a primary, technology-enabled form of business creation.

Zoom’s Solopreneur 50 and accompanying report position this emerging segment within a broader shift toward AI-powered, independent work, where platforms that can turn interaction into execution define the next generation of business infrastructure. To explore these trends in full, access the “Rise of the Solopreneur” report at https://click.zoom.com/resources/rise-of-the-solopreneur.

About Zoom
Zoom (NASDAQ: ZM) is a system of action for modern work, turning live collaboration into completed results. From entrepreneurs to global enterprises, customers choose Zoom to seamlessly collaborate, communicate, and drive outcomes across meetings, phone, contact center, and more — all with the built-in assistance of Zoom AI Companion. Founded in 2011, Zoom is headquartered in San Jose, CA. For more information, visit zoom.com.

Media Contact
[email protected]
[email protected]

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9711706)

EarthDaily Advancing Daily Global Measurement of Planetary Change with Six Satellites Launched

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., May 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EarthDaily Analytics (EarthDaily) today announced the successful launch of six EarthDaily Constellation satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare mission, confirming initial contact with satellites EDC-02 through EDC-07. The milestone significantly advances the company’s goal of delivering daily, consistent measurement of planetary change at global scale.

The launch, executed on May 3, 2026, delivered all six satellites to low Earth orbit. Telemetry confirms successful deployment, stable performance, solar array deployment, and power-positive status. Each satellite has transitioned into its expected operational configuration, continuing EarthDaily’s disciplined approach to on-orbit validation first demonstrated with EDC-01.

This second launch builds on the successful commissioning of EarthDaily’s first satellite and reinforces the company’s ability to deploy and operate a calibrated, AI-ready Earth observation system. With additional satellites now in orbit, the EarthDaily Constellation will be entering commercial operations late this summer, further strengthening EarthDaily’s existing portfolio of data and analytics products already supporting governments and commercial customers across agriculture, mining, insurance, and defense.

As the constellation expands, these offerings will be enhanced by a consistent, daily stream of calibrated measurement, enabling greater scale, accuracy, and automation across customer workflows. This evolution is closely tied to EarthDaily’s investment in AI and foundation models, designed to transform continuous global measurement into predictive intelligence. Trained on a unified, high-quality time series dataset, these models will enable faster insights, improved confidence, and more precise decision-making across mission-critical applications.

This capability is made possible by the design of the EarthDaily Constellation itself, purpose-built for broad-area change detection. By combining high-frequency revisit, wide-area coverage, and consistent measurement, each satellite, equipped with 16 imaging systems across 22 spectral bands, operates as part of a single, coordinated measurement platform.

“Most Earth observation systems were built to capture images,” said Don Osborne, Chief Executive Officer of EarthDaily. “We built EarthDaily to measure change. With this second launch and successful contact across multiple satellites, we are moving quickly toward delivering a consistent, daily understanding of the planet that customers can rely on to act with confidence.”

Customers will move beyond fragmented datasets to a unified, AI-ready source of truth, where calibrated measurement powers predictive intelligence. Governments can maintain high-confidence situational awareness and continuously update critical datasets, while commercial users can model risk, forecast outcomes, and optimize operations with greater precision.

“The world doesn’t need more imagery. It needs trusted, consistent measurement,” Osborne added. “With each satellite we bring online, we are closing the gap between data collection and decision-making, delivering the foundation for AI-ready geospatial intelligence at scale.”

With an eighth satellite set to launch later this summer, EarthDaily is accelerating into its next phase: delivering a new standard for how the planet is measured.

About EarthDaily

To learn more, visit earthdaily.com and follow EarthDaily on LinkedIn (@EarthDaily) and X (@EarthDailyA).

Contacts
Tanya Cross
Vice President, Global Marketing and Communications
EarthDaily
[email protected]

Alliance Advisors IR
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/63895f31-922c-451d-894e-110f2f640ad9

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9712244)

LyondellBasell schließt Verkauf ausgewählter europäischer Vermögenswerte im Rahmen der strategischen Bewertung ab

ROTTERDAM, Niederlande, May 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LyondellBasell (LYB) hat den Verkauf ausgewählter europäischer Vermögenswerte im Olefin- und Polyolefinbereich sowie der dazugehörigen Geschäfts- und Corporate-Funktionen an AEQUITA abgeschlossen. Damit erreicht das Unternehmen einen wichtigen Meilenstein in seiner europäischen strategischen Bewertung. Der Abschluss erfolgte nach den erforderlichen Informations- und Konsultationsprozessen mit den zuständigen Arbeitnehmervertretungen sowie nach Erfüllung der üblichen regulatorischen Bedingungen.

Durch den Verkauf konzentriert sich LYB künftig stärker auf Geschäftsbereiche und Anlagen, die dauerhaft wettbewerbsfähig sind und langfristig bessere Erträge versprechen. Gleichzeitig kann das Unternehmen flexibler auf finanzielle Herausforderungen reagieren und sein Kapital gezielt einsetzen.

Die veräußerten Vermögenswerte befinden sich in Berre (Frankreich), Münchsmünster (Deutschland), Carrington (Großbritannien) und Tarragona (Spanien). Das Geschäft mit Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) in Tarragona wird LYB weiterhin betreiben.

„Diese Veräußerung ist ein wichtiger Schritt in unserer Transformation“, so Peter Vanacker, Chief Executive Officer von LyondellBasell. „Mit dem Abschluss des Verkaufs haben wir unser Portfolio weiter geschärft. Gleichzeitig können wir Kapital noch gezielter in attraktive Wachstumschancen investieren und so langfristig Werte schaffen.“

Vanacker ergänzt: „Europa bleibt ein wichtiger Markt für LYB. Wir investieren weiterhin dort, wo wir starke Wertschöpfung sehen – indem wir unsere Position bei Spezialpolymeren ausbauen, ein profitables Geschäft im Bereich Circular & Low Carbon Solutions aufbauen und führend in Technologie und Innovation bleiben. Unser Dank gilt den Kolleginnen und Kollegen, die im Zuge der Transaktion in das neue Unternehmen wechseln. Für den Start unter der Eigentümerschaft von AEQUITA wünschen wir ihnen und dem neuen Unternehmen alles Gute.“

Nach dem heutigen Abschluss wird das veräußerte Geschäft unter dem Namen Velogy geführt.

„Mit dem Abschluss machen wir einen wichtigen Schritt beim Aufbau einer starken und wettbewerbsfähigen europäischen Polymerplattform, in einem Markt mit soliden Fundamentaldaten und attraktivem langfristigem Potenzial“, erklärt Dr.-Ing. Axel Geuer, AEQUITA-Gründer und Vorsitzender des Verwaltungsrats. „Wir danken LyondellBasell für die konstruktive Zusammenarbeit. Jetzt freuen wir uns darauf, gemeinsam mit den Mitarbeitenden von Velogy die Leistungsfähigkeit des Unternehmens zum Nutzen von Kunden und Lieferanten weiter zu stärken.“

LYB wird die verbleibenden Anlagen weiterhin sicher und zuverlässig betreiben und Kunden sowie Partner wie gewohnt nach hohen Standards unterstützen.

Berater
Citi und J.P. Morgan Securities LLC fungierten als Finanzberater, Linklaters LLP als Rechtsberater von LyondellBasell.

Über LyondellBasell

Wir sind LyondellBasell – ein führendes Unternehmen der globalen Chemieindustrie. Wir entwickeln Lösungen für ein nachhaltigeres Leben im Alltag. Mit Technologien und Investitionen unterstützen wir eine stärker kreislauforientierte und kohlenstoffärmere Wirtschaft. Dabei wollen wir Werte für Kunden, Investoren und die Gesellschaft schaffen. Als einer der weltweit größten Polymerhersteller und führend in der Polyolefintechnologie entwickeln, produzieren und vermarkten wir Produkte für Anwendungen – von nachhaltigem Transport und Lebensmittelsicherheit bis hin zu sauberem Wasser und hochwertiger Gesundheitsversorgung. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter www.lyondellbasell.com oder folgen Sie @LyondellBasell auf LinkedIn.

Über AEQUITA

AEQUITA ist eine in München ansässige Industriegruppe. Sie investiert in Unternehmensausgliederungen, Nachfolgeregelungen und Transformationen in Europa, Nordamerika und Asien. Das aktuelle Portfolio umfasst die Segmente Chemie, Industriegüter/-dienstleistungen und Automotive. AEQUITA beschäftigt mehr als 19.000 Mitarbeitende und erwirtschaftet einen Jahresumsatz von mehr als 10 Milliarden Euro. Mit einer starken Kapitalbasis und unternehmerischem Know-how konzentriert sich AEQUITA auf den Erwerb und die langfristige Wertsteigerung von Unternehmen. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter www.aequita.com.

Presseanfragen LYB Global
LyondellBasell Media Relations
Tel.: +1-713-309-7575
E-Mail: [email protected]

Oder:

Presseanfragen LYB Europa
Esther Clason, Communications EMEAI
Tel.: +31 6 388 269 30
E-Mail: [email protected]

Presseanfragen AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA
Kolja Hübner, Partner
Gabrielenstr. 9, 80636 München
Tel.: +49 89 2620 4840-0
E-Mail: [email protected]

Zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen (Forward-Looking Statements) – LYB

Die Aussagen in dieser Mitteilung, die sich auf Angelegenheiten beziehen, die keine historischen Fakten darstellen, sind zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen. Die tatsächlichen Ergebnisse können erheblich abweichen, was unter anderem davon abhängt, ob wir in der Lage sind, unsere Assets mit unseren strategischen Zielen in Einklang zu bringen; langfristige Werte für unsere Stakeholder zu schaffen; sowie ein profitables Geschäft im Bereich Circular & Low Carbon Solutions aufzubauen.

Weitere Faktoren, die dazu führen können, dass die tatsächlichen Ergebnisse erheblich von den in den zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen beschriebenen abweichen, finden sich im Abschnitt „Risk Factors“ unseres Form 10-K für das am 31. Dezember 2025 endende Geschäftsjahr, abrufbar unter www.LyondellBasell.com (Investors) sowie auf der Website der U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission unter www.sec.gov. Es gibt keine Gewähr dafür, dass die in den zukunftsgerichteten Aussagen beschriebenen Handlungen, Ereignisse oder Ergebnisse eintreten werden. Zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen gelten nur zum Zeitpunkt ihrer Veröffentlichung und basieren auf den damaligen Schätzungen und Einschätzungen des Managements von LyondellBasell. LyondellBasell übernimmt keine Verpflichtung, zukunftsgerichtete Aussagen zu aktualisieren, es sei denn, dies ist gesetzlich vorgeschrieben.

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9711293)

LyondellBasell completes sale of select European strategic assessment assets

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, May 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) today announced that it has successfully completed the sale of select European olefins and polyolefins assets, and the associated business and corporate functions, to AEQUITA as a key milestone in the company’s European strategic assessment. The transaction follows completion of required employee information and consultation processes and satisfaction of customary regulatory and closing conditions.

The divestiture supports the company’s strategy to grow and upgrade the core by further concentrating on assets and businesses with durable competitive advantages and stronger long-term returns, while enhancing financial flexibility and supporting disciplined capital allocation.

The assets sold in the transaction are located in Berre (France), Münchsmünster (Germany), Carrington (UK), and Tarragona (Spain). LYB will continue to operate its Advanced Polymer Solutions (APS) business in Tarragona.

“This transaction represents a pivotal achievement in our transformation,” said Peter Vanacker, chief executive officer of LyondellBasell. “By finalizing this sale, we have refined our portfolio and enhanced our capacity to allocate capital toward high-return opportunities that contribute to long-term value creation.”

Vanacker added, “Europe remains an integral market for LYB; we will continue to invest where value creation is strong, reinforcing our leadership in specialty polymers, building a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business, and advancing our leadership in technology and innovation. We extend our gratitude to our colleagues transferring as part of this transaction for their contributions, professionalism, and resilience throughout the process. As they transition to a standalone business under AEQUITA ownership, we wish them and the new company success in the next chapter ahead.”

Following today’s closing, the divested business will be named and operated as Velogy.

“This closing marks an important step in building a scaled and competitive European polymers platform, a sector where we see strong fundamentals and attractive long-term value creation potential,” said Dr.-Ing. Axel Geuer, AEQUITA-Founder and Chairman. “We thank LyondellBasell for the constructive collaboration throughout the process and are excited to begin the next step of partnering with Velogy’s employees to reinforce and further enhance the Company’s leading services to customers and suppliers.”

LYB remains committed to operating its remaining assets safely and reliably and to continuing to serve customers and partners with the same high standards.

Advisors
Citi and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC acted as financial advisors, and Linklaters LLP acted as legal counsel to LyondellBasell.

About LyondellBasell
We are LyondellBasell (NYSE: LYB) ― a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low carbon economy. Across all we do, we aim to unlock value for our customers, investors, and society. As one of the world's largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. For more information, please visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow @LyondellBasell on LinkedIn.

About AEQUITA
AEQUITA is a Munich-based industrial group investing in corporate carve-outs, succession situations, and transformational opportunities across Europe, North America, and Asia. Its portfolio companies generate more than EUR 10 billion in revenues across three segments — automotive, chemicals, and industrials — and employ over 19,000 people worldwide. Backed by a strong capital base and deep operational expertise, AEQUITA acquires and sustainably develops companies with long-term value creation potential. For more information, visit www.aequita.com.

Media Inquiries LYB Global
LyondellBasell Media Relations
Phone: +1-713-309-7575
Email: [email protected]
Or:
Media Inquiries LYB Europe
Esther Clason, Communications EMEAI
Phone: +31 6 388 269 30
Email: [email protected]

Media Inquiries AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA
Kolja Hübner, Partner
Gabrielenstr. 9, 80636 Munich
Phone: +49 89 2620 4840-0
Email: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements LYB
The statements in this release relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially based on factors including, but not limited to, our ability to align our asset base with our strategic goals; our ability to create long-term value for our stakeholders; and our ability to build a profitable Circular & Low Carbon Solutions business. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which can be found at www.LyondellBasell.com on the Investors page and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. There is no assurance that any of the actions, events or results of the forward-looking statements will occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on our results of operations or financial condition. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and are based on the estimates and opinions of management of LyondellBasell at the time the statements are made. LyondellBasell does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change, except as required by law.

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9711293)

VertiGIS Acquires 1Spatial to Expand its Product Portfolio and Global Reach

Take-private deal, valued at £87 million, to help VertiGIS power the next generation of intelligent, insight-driven geospatial networks

London, UK. 30 April 2026 – VertiGIS, a global leader in geospatial solutions for utilities, governments and commercial enterprises, today announces it has closed its acquisition of 1Spatial, a longstanding VertiGIS partner and a global provider of advanced Location Master Data Management (LMDM) software. VertiGIS is backed by global, technology-focused investment firm Battery Ventures.

Together, VertiGIS and 1Spatial will offer customers a comprehensive geospatial technology portfolio, combining 1Spatial's data-management platform with VertiGIS' industry-focused business applications. While VertiGIS has built its reputation delivering high-value workflows at the application tier, 1Spatial adds a powerful data-quality and automation layer, giving customers the tools to evaluate, enrich, and govern the spatial data that underpins those applications. As organizations increasingly look to leverage AI agents and large language models in their geospatial workflows, the quality of underlying data becomes critical. 1Spatial's rules engine can prepare that data for AI consumption.

The combination also significantly expands VertiGIS' geographic reach, specifically into new markets including the U.K., France, and the Benelux region while strengthening existing footprints in North America and Australia. Customers will benefit from a deeper product portfolio that includes 1Spatial's popular 1Integrate rules engine and its innovative 1Streetworks solution, which helps municipalities better manage infrastructure construction projects, as well as a broader suite of complementary, vertically focused solutions for water utilities, telecoms, transportation authorities, and other infrastructure-focused organizations.

Under the terms of the deal – valued at GBP £87.10 million and first announced in December 2025 – 1Spatial shareholders received 73 pence in cash per share. The offer represented a premium of 56.99% to the closing price of 46.50 pence per 1Spatial Share on 11 December, 2025, the last business day before the Possible Offer Announcement.

“High quality, trustworthy data is the foundation of every modern geospatial system and is critical for the autonomous and predictive future we are building,” said Andy Berry, CEO of VertiGIS. “1Spatial’s expertise and technology complement our portfolio and strengthen our ability to help customers accelerate digital transformation. We’re delighted to welcome the 1Spatial team into VertiGIS.”

1Spatial customers can expect continuity of service and uninterrupted access to current products and support channels, along with access to a broader set of market-leading geospatial solutions from VertiGIS.

Expanding VertiGIS’ Data Management and Automation Capabilities

1Spatial’s solutions are used by national and regional governments, utilities, telecoms, transport agencies, and infrastructure operators – sectors where VertiGIS already has a strong and expanding footprint. Integrating 1Spatial’s technology directly into the VertiGIS portfolio will accelerate VertiGIS’ strategy to deliver end-to-end geospatial solutions, from data creation and validation to analytics, operations, and field execution.

1Spatial is recognised for its patented, automated rules engine that enables organisations to manage, validate, and enhance large-scale geospatial and location data with high accuracy and consistency. Its LMDM platform provides:

Automated data validation and correction
Complex, rules-based data governance
Cross-system data synchronisation
High-volume processing for national scale datasets
Tools that ensure geospatial, asset, and operational data remain complete, current, and trustworthy

This high data accuracy is foundational for delivering AI-enabled insights, supporting the reliability and effectiveness of predictive maintenance models and advanced analytics.

The acquisition enhances VertiGIS’ ability to deliver enterprise-grade data integrity, enabling customers to unlock greater value from their GIS investments. For 1Spatial’s customers, the transaction provides access to VertiGIS’ global product suite, international support network, and industry specific innovations and roadmap.

A Transforming Industry with VertiGIS Neo Leading the Next Wave of Innovation

This acquisition strengthens VertiGIS’ position at a pivotal moment for the geospatial industry, with the Total Addressable Market projected to grow from $700M in 2025 to $1.3B by 2030. As the market shifts toward advanced SaaS adoption and infrastructure modernization, VertiGIS is leading the way with its VertiGIS Neo technology philosophy. Central to this strategy is a unified, cloud-native foundation that breaks down silos and enables continuous innovation through seamless integrations. By combining this cohesive architecture with domain-focused capabilities, VertiGIS addresses the specific workflows of utilities, government bodies, and telecommunications providers, embedding deep industry knowledge directly into its solutions.

VertiGIS Neo solutions guide organizations from insight to impact, turning potential into performance. Beyond data visualisation, VertiGIS Neo solutions offer AI-enabled insights for predictive analytics and automated decision-making. This is paired with mobile-first field solutions designed for any device, empowering field teams with instant access to data and workflows anywhere. “GIS has become a strategic platform that delivers real operational and financial impact,” concludes Berry. “We see the trends shaping the industry, and we’re ready to help organisations prepare for the next era of modernisation.”

– ENDS –

About VertiGIS
VertiGIS unlocks the power of location to help organisations work smarter. Its innovative geospatial solutions connect complex location data with real-world operational workflows for utilities, government bodies, telecom providers, and commercial and industrial teams. This empowers them to manage assets with precision, drive efficiencies, and achieve superior outcomes.

VertiGIS’ Neo technology vision powers this transformation. Cloud-first, industry-informed, AI-enabled tools are paired with a portfolio of applications including VertiGIS Studio, VertiGIS Networks, VertiGIS FM, VertiGIS LM, and VertiGIS ConnectMaster. These solutions extend and enhance Esri’s ArcGIS® platform, adapting to the needs of both small teams and enterprise-scale deployments.

More than 5,000 organisations worldwide rely on VertiGIS to turn geospatial data into actionable insights. To learn more about VertiGIS, visit www.vertigis.com

About Battery Ventures
Battery partners with exceptional founders and management teams developing category-defining businesses in markets including software and services, enterprise infrastructure/AI, and industrial technology and life-science tools. Founded in 1983, the firm backs companies at all stages, ranging from seed and early to growth and buyout, and invests globally from offices in Boston, San Francisco, Menlo Park, New York, London and Tel Aviv. Follow the firm on Twitter @BatteryVentures, visit our website at www.battery.com and find a full list of Battery's portfolio companies here.

About 1Spatial
1Spatial is a provider of advanced location master data management software and services. Using a patented, automated, rules-based approach, 1Spatial enables organisations to validate, cleanse, transform, and enhance large and complex geospatial datasets with exceptional accuracy and speed. Its solutions are used by governments, utilities, and transport and infrastructure organisations across multiple regions.

CONTACT:
Jim Pople
C8 Consulting on behalf of VertiGIS
[email protected]

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001178839)

VertiGIS Acquires 1Spatial to Expand its Product Portfolio and Global Reach

Take-private deal, valued at £87 million, to help VertiGIS power the next generation of intelligent, insight-driven geospatial networks

Expanding VertiGIS’ Data Management and Automation Capabilities

Automated data validation and correction
Complex, rules-based data governance
Cross-system data synchronisation
High-volume processing for national scale datasets
Tools that ensure geospatial, asset, and operational data remain complete, current, and trustworthy

This high data accuracy is foundational for delivering AI-enabled insights, supporting the reliability and effectiveness of predictive maintenance models and advanced analytics.

A Transforming Industry with VertiGIS Neo Leading the Next Wave of Innovation

– ENDS –

More than 5,000 organisations worldwide rely on VertiGIS to turn geospatial data into actionable insights. To learn more about VertiGIS, visit www.vertigis.com

CONTACT:
Jim Pople
C8 Consulting on behalf of VertiGIS
[email protected]

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001178842)

Ndovesha AI Launches Unified AI Agent Platform for Marketing, Content Creation and Digital Growth

NAIROBI, Kenya, April 29, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ndovesha AI today announced the expansion of its all-in-one AI agent platform designed to help businesses, entrepreneurs and creators generate marketing assets, automate content production and accelerate digital growth through specialized AI-powered agents.

Built for speed and accessibility, Ndovesha AI brings together multiple intelligent agents in one workspace, enabling users to generate social media post images, social media ad creatives, social media carousels, social media videos, flyers, logos, captions, landing pages, websites, presentations and blog articles, all through AI-assisted workflows.

As businesses increasingly adopt AI marketing automation, generative AI tools and AI business agents, Ndovesha AI positions itself as a practical growth platform for organizations seeking faster content production and lower creative costs.

“Businesses need more than AI chat tools, they need outcome-driven AI agents that produce real marketing assets,” said Joseph Muchoki, Founder of Ndovesha AI. “Our mission is to help businesses build, launch and scale faster using specialized AI agents in one platform.”

The platform’s growing suite of agents includes a Prompt Generator, Social Media Post Image Generator, AI Ad Creative Generator, AI Carousel Generator, AI Video Content Agent, Flyer Design Generator, AI Logo Maker, Caption Generator, AI Landing Page Builder, AI Website Builder, Presentation Generator and AI Blog Writer.

Designed for startups, SMEs, agencies and enterprise teams, Ndovesha AI supports use cases ranging from campaign execution and branding to website development and content marketing.

With demand rising for AI agents for business, AI marketing tools, website generation AI, AI design automation, AI content generation, and digital marketing automation, Ndovesha AI aims to make advanced AI capabilities practical and accessible for growth-focused organizations across Africa and beyond.

Industry analysts continue to point to growing adoption of autonomous AI agents, AI workflow automation, and agentic AI platforms as major drivers of the next wave of business productivity. Ndovesha AI is positioning itself at the center of that shift.

Ndovesha AI is now available to businesses seeking to streamline marketing production, launch digital assets faster and scale with AI-powered agents.

Keywords: AI Agents, Agentic AI, AI Marketing Automation, Generative AI, AI Content Creation, AI Website Builder, AI Landing Page Builder, Social Media AI Tools, AI Design Generator, AI Business Automation, Marketing AI Agents, Autonomous Agents, Digital Marketing Automation, Prompt Engineering, AI for SMEs.

Media Contact
Ndovesha AI
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://ndovesha.ai

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aeb7c187-35a5-4ee7-8350-80a1e3fa289b

GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001178606)

Bodor Laser se classe n° 1 mondial en volume de ventes pour la septième année consécutive, confirmant la solidité de sa marque grâce à un leadership durable

SHENZHEN, Chine, 27 avr. 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bodor Laser s’est classé n° 1 mondial des ventes de machines de découpe laser (1 000 W et plus) pour la septième année consécutive, selon des données publiées par le Qianzhan Industry Research Institute en mars 2026. En 2025, l’entreprise a de nouveau dépassé les 10 000 unités vendues annuellement, restant le seul fabricant à atteindre ce niveau pendant sept années consécutives.

Bodor Laser franchit une étape importante

Cette reconnaissance a été annoncée lors du salon ITES 2026 à Shenzhen, où Bodor Laser a également présenté ses avancées en matière de production, d’innovation produit et d’expansion internationale.

Sept années au sommet : un leadership mondial confirmé

Lors de l’evénement, Bodor Laser a indiqué que sa super-usine DreamSpace a livré plus de 10 000 machines au cours de l’année écoulée, tandis que son siège social de Chine méridionale à Shenzhen est entré en service, renforçant sa structure à double pôle. L’entreprise souligne que cette étape marque un nouveau point de départ vers des normes encore plus élevées en matière de qualité, d’innovation et de puissance de marque.

Chen Like, fondateur du Qianzhan Industry Research Institute, a déclaré que cette réussite reflète les capacités de Bodor Laser sur l’ensemble de la chaîne d’innovation, incluant la fabrication, la R&D, le design industriel et les opérations intelligentes.

Stratégie et innovation comme moteurs clés

Le leadership de Bodor Laser repose sur une stratégie ciblée et des investissements technologiques à long terme. Au cours des cinq dernières années, l’entreprise a investi plusieurs dizaines de millions de dollars dans la R&D, développé des capacités internes sur les composants essentiels et constitué un important portefeuille de brevets. Ses produits ont reçu plusieurs distinctions internationales de design, notamment les prix Red Dot et iF Design Awards.

Gamme de produits et fabrication intelligente

En 2025, Bodor Laser a élargi sa gamme aux systèmes à grande vitesse et haute précision ainsi qu’aux lignes de production intelligentes. Ses solutions ont amélioré l’efficacité et la précision dans des applications telles que la fabrication de pièces automobiles et l’usinage de tôles, tandis que les systèmes d’automatisation intégrés permettent une production en continu.

Expansion et opérations mondiales

Bodor Laser continue de renforcer sa présence mondiale grâce à des sites de production en Chine et en Thaïlande, ainsi que plus de 10 filiales et centres de service à l’international. L’entreprise est désormais présente dans plus de 180 pays et régions et emploie plus de 3 500 personnes dans le monde.

« Une septième place consécutive au premier rang n’est pas une fin en soi, mais un nouveau point de départ », a déclaré Zhan Zhihao, vice-président principal chez Bodor Laser. « Nous continuerons à stimuler l’innovation et à soutenir l’industrie manufacturière mondiale. »

Une photo annexée au présent communiqué est disponible à l’adresse suivante : https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/914d0715-229f-408c-bd1b-fc6347965594

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Bodor Laser sieben Jahre in Folge weltweit führend beim Absatzvolumen – nachhaltige Marktführerschaft unterstreicht Markenkompetenz

SHENZHEN, China, April 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bodor Laser belegt zum siebten Mal in Folge weltweit den ersten Platz beim Absatz von Laserschneidmaschinen (ab 1.000 W) – so das Ergebnis einer im März 2026 veröffentlichten Erhebung des Qianzhan Industry Research Institute. Auch 2025 verkaufte das Unternehmen erneut mehr als 10.000 Anlagen pro Jahr und bleibt damit der einzige Hersteller, der diese Marke sieben Jahre in Folge erreicht hat.

Bodor Laser erreicht einen Meilenstein

Die Bekanntgabe der Auszeichnung erfolgte auf der ITES 2026 in Shenzhen, wo Bodor Laser zudem Entwicklungen in den Bereichen Fertigung, Produktinnovation und globale Expansion vorstellte.

Sieben Jahre auf Platz 1 – globale Spitzenposition bestätigt

Im Rahmen der Veranstaltung teilte Bodor Laser mit, dass seine Superfabrik DreamSpace im vergangenen Jahr mehr als 10.000 Maschinen ausgeliefert hat. Parallel nahm der Hauptsitz für Südchina in Shenzhen den Betrieb auf und stärkt damit die duale Standortstruktur des Unternehmens. Das Unternehmen betonte, dass dieser Meilenstein einen Ausgangspunkt für weiteres Wachstum und höhere Standards in Qualität, Innovation und Markenprofil darstellt.

Chen Like, Gründer des Qianzhan Industry Research Institute, erklärte, dass diese Leistung die Fähigkeiten von Bodor Laser entlang der gesamten Innovationskette widerspiegelt, einschließlich Fertigung, Forschung und Entwicklung, Industriedesign und intelligenter Betriebsprozesse.

Strategie und Innovation als zentrale Wachstumstreiber

Die Marktführerschaft von Bodor Laser gründet auf einer klaren strategischen Ausrichtung und langjährigen Investitionen in Technologie. In den vergangenen fünf Jahren hat das Unternehmen einen zweistelligen Millionenbetrag (USD) in Forschung und Entwicklung investiert, interne Kompetenzen in allen Kernkomponenten aufgebaut und ein umfangreiches Patentportfolio entwickelt. Die Produkte wurden mit zahlreichen internationalen Designpreisen wie dem Red Dot und dem iF Design Awards ausgezeichnet.

Produktportfolio und intelligente Fertigung

Im Jahr 2025 hat Bodor Laser sein Portfolio um Hochgeschwindigkeits- und Hochpräzisionssysteme sowie intelligente Produktionslinien erweitert. Die Lösungen steigern Effizienz und Präzision in Anwendungsbereichen wie der Automobilzulieferung und der Blechverarbeitung, während integrierte Automatisierungssysteme eine durchgängige Produktion ermöglichen.

Globale Expansion und Geschäftstätigkeit

Bodor Laser baut seine globale Präsenz mit Produktionsstätten in China und Thailand sowie mehr als 10 Tochtergesellschaften und Servicezentren im Ausland weiter aus. Das Unternehmen ist inzwischen in über 180 Ländern und Regionen tätig und beschäftigt weltweit mehr als 3.500 Mitarbeiter.

„Die siebte Nummer-1-Platzierung in Folge ist keine Endstation, sondern ein neuer Ausgangspunkt“, sagte Zhan Zhihao, SVP bei Bodor Laser. „Wir werden Innovation weiter vorantreiben und die globale Fertigungsindustrie unterstützen.“

Ein Foto zu dieser Mitteilung finden Sie unter https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/914d0715-229f-408c-bd1b-fc6347965594

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