Category: Partners

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / In every major industry, compliance has historically been treated as a cost center. Companies hire consultants, assemble reporting teams, and invest in monitoring systems not because they want to, but because regulators require it. Compliance was always about meeting the minimum threshold to avoid penalties, not about creating value. That mentality is starting to shift.

Today, in a world where consumers, investors, and regulators demand verifiable proof rather than glossy sustainability reports, compliance is beginning to look more like a premium; an investment companies are willing to make because it strengthens their brand, protects their equity, and commands trust in competitive markets.

The shift becomes clear when you look at the failures of past sustainability frameworks. Too often, companies were forced to report recycled content or ethical sourcing with flimsy paper trails and unverifiable claims. The gap between what was promised and what could be proven left brands vulnerable. Litigation, class-action lawsuits, and consumer skepticism became the risks lurking behind every corporate pledge. That fragility put compliance in a defensive posture. It was a game of avoiding damage rather than creating differentiation. But if you can transform compliance into an impregnable proof system, something no one can tamper with, suddenly, it flips from liability to asset.

That is precisely where SMX (NASDAQ:SMX) has positioned itself. SMX turns materials into data. Its patented molecular markers are embedded directly into plastics, metals, textiles, and natural rubber, giving every item a scannable, tamper-resistant identity tied to a verified plastics passport. This molecular signature cannot be faked or washed away; it stays with the material through its entire lifecycle. Goods can be tracked from origin through use, recycling, and even chemical transformation, with compliance verified in real time.

The result is not just enforceable regulation but demonstrable authenticity, recycled content proof, and anti-counterfeiting capabilities. Together, these attributes create what can best be described as a compliance premium.

Willing to Pay A Premium

The reason companies are willing to pay that premium is simple: defensibility. In a crowded market, every major brand is claiming to be sustainable. The differentiator is not who can shout the loudest; it is who can prove it. When a beverage company tells consumers that its bottles contain 50 percent recycled plastic, SMX technology allows it to back that claim with verified data that regulators, auditors, and customers can trust. That transforms compliance from an obligation into a shield protecting brand equity. It ensures that billions spent on sustainability initiatives do not unravel with a single investigation or viral headline accusing the company of greenwashing.

And the benefits stretch even further. Compliance verified at the molecular level does not just keep regulators satisfied. It unlocks financial value. When recycled content can be tracked with precision, it becomes monetizable. SMX’s framework for Plastic Cycle Tokens (PCTs) is designed to take that verifiable data and convert it into a tradable asset, similar to how carbon credits turned emissions into an economic market. What was once a cost line item becomes a source of revenue and financial flexibility. That is the compliance premium at work: regulation reframed not as expense but as an instrument of value creation.

This is why Singapore’s mission to create a national plastics passport in partnership with SMX and its research powerhouse ASTAR matters so much. By embedding molecular markers into its plastics system, Singapore is not only proving recycled content is real but ensuring that every link in the chain of custody can be verified. This approach directly advances national goals around material efficiency-ensuring resources are used, reused, and recovered at their highest value. For global companies, the platform is more than a local requirement. It is a trusted, enforceable infrastructure that protects their brands across Europe, the United States, and ASEAN markets alike.

The Right Step Forward

The idea that companies would pay a premium for compliance may seem counterintuitive until you look at history. Corporations have long paid premiums for certifications like organic, fair trade, or ISO standards because those labels provided differentiation and market trust. SMX’s technology is the next evolution. It does not just certify compliance, it encodes it directly into the material itself, eliminating the risk of fraud or error. For companies, that means moving beyond the old game of compliance avoidance into a new era where proof itself becomes a competitive advantage.

Investors will recognize the significance of this shift. Early movers in carbon markets or ESG technologies saw their valuations soar not because they met obligations, but because they created platforms that monetized compliance. SMX is at that same inflection point. By transforming regulation into measurable, tradable value, the company is not just helping clients stay ahead of the law. It is building the infrastructure for an entirely new asset class. The compliance premium is no longer an abstract concept; it is a financial reality that can be monetized, protected, and scaled.

That is why SMX’s story is not about regulation as punishment, but regulation as opportunity. Its molecular technology enables companies to prove every claim, defend every pledge, and convert every compliance requirement into brand protection and financial gain. The companies that recognize this are no longer dreading compliance. They are willing to pay for it because it has become the ultimate form of insurance and the clearest path to value creation.

References

• Los Angeles Tribune. “Carbon Credits Had Their Day… Now the SMX Plastic Cycle Token…” Feature article; 2025.

• National Environment Agency (NEA). Refuse Collection Fees for Households. Revised 2024; accessed 5 August 2025.

• National Environment Agency (NEA). Waste & Recycling Statistics 2014 – 2023. Singapore: NEA; 2024.

• National Environment Agency (NEA). “New Licensing Regime for General Waste Disposal Facilities.” Technical brief & dialogue-session slides; 2024.

• Nasdaq.com. “SMX Announces Planned Launch of World’s First Plastic Cycle Token.” Press release; 2024.

• Yahoo! Finance. “SMX Plastic Cycle Token Is a Functional Market-Driven Solution…” News article; 2024.

• Shunpoly.com. “How Much Plastic Is Wasted Each Year in Singapore?” Accessed 5 August 2025.

• National Environment Agency (NEA). Waste-Statistics & Overall Recycling (interactive dashboard). Updated 2024; accessed 5 August 2025.

• National Environment Agency (NEA). Mandatory Packaging Reporting portal. Accessed 5 August 2025.

• Singapore Statutes Online. Environmental Public Health (Public Cleansing) Regulations – Incineration gate-fee schedule; revised 2024.

About SMX

As global businesses face new and complex challenges relating to carbon neutrality and meeting new governmental and regional regulations and standards, SMX is able to offer players along the value chain access to its marking, tracking, measuring and digital platform technology to transition more successfully to a low-carbon economy.

Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this press release may include, for example: matters relating to the Company’s fight against abusive and possibly illegal trading tactics against the Company’s stock; successful launch and implementation of SMX’s joint projects with manufacturers and other supply chain participants of gold, steel, rubber and other materials; changes in SMX’s strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects and plans; SMX’s ability to develop and launch new products and services, including its planned Plastic Cycle Token; SMX’s ability to successfully and efficiently integrate future expansion plans and opportunities; SMX’s ability to grow its business in a cost-effective manner; SMX’s product development timeline and estimated research and development costs; the implementation, market acceptance and success of SMX’s business model; developments and projections relating to SMX’s competitors and industry; and SMX’s approach and goals with respect to technology. These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this press release, and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing views as of any subsequent date, and no obligation is undertaken to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: the ability to maintain the listing of the Company’s shares on Nasdaq; changes in applicable laws or regulations; any lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on SMX’s business; the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realize additional opportunities; the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which SMX operates; the risk that SMX and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize SMX’s products or services, or experience significant delays in doing so; the risk that the Company may never achieve or sustain profitability; the risk that the Company will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; the risk that the Company experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations; the risk that third-party suppliers and manufacturers are not able to fully and timely meet their obligations; the risk that SMX is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property; the possibility that SMX may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; and other risks and uncertainties described in SMX’s filings from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

EMAIL: info@securitymattersltd.com

SOURCE: SMX (Security Matters)

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Waitstaff, bartenders, salon workers, and other tipped employees could face greater IRS scrutiny under new compliance initiatives.

IRVINE, CA / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is intensifying its focus on unreported tip income in 2025, a move that could impact millions of service industry workers nationwide. With new reporting initiatives and advanced tracking systems, the agency is signaling that tips left off tax returns will no longer fly under the radar.

Tax professionals caution that waitstaff, bartenders, rideshare drivers, salon workers, and others who rely heavily on gratuities should take steps now to ensure full compliance.

“Tips are taxable income, but too often workers underreport them, either by mistake or because they don’t realize how closely the IRS is watching,” said a Clear Start Tax spokesperson. “In 2025, the IRS is rolling out systems that make it much harder to hide unreported cash or digital tips.”

Recent IRS initiatives have expanded electronic reporting requirements, particularly as more gratuities are left via credit cards, apps, and digital payment platforms. These records can be matched against reported wages, making discrepancies easier to detect.

“It’s not just cash tips anymore,” Clear Start Tax explained. “With digital transactions, the paper trail is clear. If your lifestyle or spending doesn’t align with what you’ve reported, that gap could trigger questions from the IRS.”

Experts say workers in restaurants, salons, casinos, and rideshare services are most at risk of audits or underpayment penalties. Tax professionals urge service workers to maintain daily tip logs, report all gratuities to employers, and set aside money for potential tax liabilities.

“The best protection is accurate reporting and good recordkeeping,” the Clear Start Tax spokesperson added. “It’s far less stressful to stay compliant upfront than to deal with penalties and back taxes later.”

By answering a few simple questions, taxpayers can find out if they’re eligible for the IRS Fresh Start Program and take the first step toward resolving their tax debt.

About Clear Start Tax

Clear Start Tax is a trusted national tax relief firm dedicated to helping individuals and businesses resolve IRS and state tax issues. With a focus on education, transparency, and proven strategies, Clear Start Tax has assisted thousands of taxpayers in reducing liabilities, negotiating settlements, and regaining financial stability.

Need Help With Back Taxes?

Click the link below:
https://clearstarttax.com/qualifytoday/
(888) 710-3533

Contact Information

Clear Start Tax
Corporate Communications Department
tech@clearstarttax.com
(949) 800-4011

SOURCE: Clear Start Tax

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

SKNY transaction strengthens MIRA pipeline with SKNY-1, a differentiated oral candidate that has demonstrated up to 30% weight loss and nicotine craving reversal in preclinical studies.

MIAMI, FL / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / MIRA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:MIRA) (“MIRA” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapeutics for neurologic, neuropsychiatric, and metabolic disorders, today announced that its stockholders have approved the acquisition of SKNY Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“SKNY”) at the Company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

All proposals at the meeting were approved by shareholders, including the SKNY acquisition. The Company expects the transaction to close shortly, subject to customary closing conditions.

Transaction Terms and Valuation

Under the terms of the definitive agreement, the acquisition will be structured as a share exchange, with SKNY shareholders receiving shares of MIRA common stock in exchange for their SKNY shares.

At closing, SKNY shall contribute an amount of assets or cash (or a combination of the two) totaling $5,000,000 to MIRA, reinforcing the Company’s financial position.

Independent third-party valuation analyses conducted by Moore Financial Consulting assigned an enterprise value of approximately $30.5 million to SKNY (based on a risk-adjusted net present value of SKNY-1) and $30 million to MIRA, supporting a combined enterprise value of more than $60 million for the merged entity.

SKNY-1: A Differentiated Oral Approach to Obesity and Addiction

SKNY-1 is a next-generation oral drug candidate designed to target the endocannabinoid system with precision, modulating CB1 and CB2 receptors and MAO-B to address appetite, reward, and craving-without the psychiatric side effects that halted earlier CB1-targeting drugs.

Key preclinical results include:

• Up to 30% body weight reduction in animal models, with preservation of muscle mass.

• Reversal of nicotine craving and high-calorie food cravings, supporting its potential as a dual-indication therapy.

• Reversal of CB1-induced anxiety-like behavior in validated animal models, suggesting improved CNS safety compared with earlier agents.

• Mechanistic studies conducted by Eurofins demonstrated that SKNY-1 selectively blocks β-arrestin signaling of CB1 receptors while sparing G-protein signaling, a design intended to reduce food intake and body weight without destabilizing mood.

“We believe SKNY-1 could be a best-in-class oral therapy for two of the leading causes of preventable death-obesity and nicotine addiction. Our shareholders’ approval is a major milestone that positions us to close the SKNY acquisition and advance this program toward IND-enabling studies,” said Erez Aminov, Chief Executive Officer of MIRA.

Market Opportunity

• The global obesity therapeutics market is projected to surpass $150 billion by the early 2030s (Reuters).

• The U.S. smoking cessation market is forecast to grow from $28 billion in 2024 to approximately $50.9 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research).

By combining differentiated pharmacology, oral delivery, and dual efficacy across obesity and addiction, SKNY-1 may offer a compelling profile for these high-value, underserved markets.

Scientific Perspective

“SKNY-1 has a unique profile with biased CB1 signaling and unique CB2 profile, and our preclinical data now confirm it can reduce cravings, lower weight and metabolic parameters, and reverses CB1-agonist induced anxiety-addressing the very limitations that halted earlier drugs in this class,” said Dr. Itzchak Angel, Chief Scientific Advisor at MIRA.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and the statements of MIRA’s management related thereto contain “forward-looking statements,” which are statements other than historical facts made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements may be identified by words such as “aims,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “goal,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “possible,” “potential,” “seeks,” “will,” and variations of these words or similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Any statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be deemed forward-looking. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are based on MIRA’s current expectations, estimates, and projections only as of the date of this release and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties (many of which are beyond MIRA’s control) that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those set forth in or implied by such forward-looking statements, including related to MIRA’s potential merger with SKNY Pharmaceuticals, Inc. These and other risks concerning MIRA’s programs and operations are described in additional detail in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and the Form 14A filed by MIRA on June 18, 2025, and other SEC filings, which are on file with the SEC at www.sec.gov and on MIRA’s website at https://www.mirapharmaceuticals.com/investors/sec-filings. MIRA explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except to the extent required by law.

Contact:
Helga Moya
info@mirapharma.com
(786) 432-9792

SOURCE: MIRA Pharmaceuticals

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

GUELPH, ON / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / Macho Movers has been recognised with the 2026 Consumer Choice Award in the Moving Companies category for the Guelph region. This recognition highlights the company’s reputation for strength, service, and reliability, earned through years of dedication to helping individuals, families, and businesses move with confidence.

Founded in 2016 by Brad Veldman, Macho Movers was built on the idea of making moving simple, affordable, and stress-free. By combining cutting-edge technology with a highly skilled team, the company has grown into one of Southern Ontario’s most trusted moving providers, serving Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Cambridge.

Macho Movers’ mission is to make every move simple, affordable, and completely stress-free. Through innovative moving practices, reliable systems, and a highly trained team of professionals, the company has built a reputation as one of Ontario’s most trusted moving providers. While first established in Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Cambridge, Macho Movers now serves clients across the entire province of Ontario-helping families, businesses, and individuals move with confidence and ease, no matter the distance.

More Than Just Moving

Macho Movers takes pride in managing every detail of the moving process with precision and care. Their services go beyond simply transporting items, with a focus on ensuring that every belonging arrives safely and every client feels supported throughout the process. Affordable pricing and a reputation for integrity have helped the company build strong relationships with customers who return and refer others time and again.

“Our team is honoured to receive the 2026 Consumer Choice Award,” says Brad Veldman, Founder of Macho Movers. “This recognition from the Guelph community reflects the trust our clients have placed in us and motivates us to keep delivering the professionalism, efficiency, and genuine care that define who we are.”

Community Recognition

The Consumer Choice Award is the only organisation in North America that recognises business excellence based entirely on the opinions of consumers. Winners are determined through an independent research process that evaluates reputation, customer satisfaction, and overall excellence. Macho Movers’ win demonstrates the confidence that Guelph residents place in the company when it comes to moving their most valued possessions.

To learn more about Macho Movers or to request a moving quote, visit www.machomovers.ca or CLICK HERE.

About Macho Movers
Founded in 2016, Macho Movers is a Guelph-based moving company dedicated to providing stress-free moving solutions for residential and commercial clients across Southern Ontario. With a skilled team, advanced equipment, and a commitment to customer care, the company serves Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, and surrounding communities. From local to long-distance moves, Macho Movers ensures every relocation is handled with professionalism, efficiency, and respect for clients’ belongings. Learn more at www.machomovers.ca.

About Consumer Choice Award
Since 1987, Consumer Choice Award has been recognising and promoting business excellence across North America. Through a rigorous selection process, only the most outstanding businesses in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Learn more at www.ccaward.com.

Contact Information:
Sumi Saleh
Communications Manager
ssaleh@ccaward.com

SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

WATERLOO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / KW Towing has been recognised with the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in the Towing Service category for the Waterloo Region. This award highlights the company’s trusted reputation and commitment to providing reliable service to the community, earning the confidence of local residents and businesses alike.

The Consumer Choice Award is the only recognition in North America that is based solely on the opinions of consumers and businesses. Winners are chosen through an independent research process that evaluates reputation, customer satisfaction, and overall business excellence. KW Towing’s recognition reflects its standing as a trusted provider in Waterloo’s towing industry.

Reliable Services When Drivers Need Them Most

KW Towing has built its reputation by being there when it matters most. Offering a wide range of roadside and emergency services, the company helps drivers feel secure on the road day and night. Services include:

• 24/7 emergency towing and roadside assistance

• Heavy duty towing and recovery

• All types of machinery/heavy equipment & freight hauling

• Vehicle winch-out and accident recovery

• Fuel delivery, car battery jump starts, and replacement batteries

• Tire changing and on-site support

• Locksmith solutions for drivers locked out of their vehicles

• Secure storage facilities for accidental vehicles, illegally parked vehicles impound

Beyond emergency response, KW Towing also provides services to various roadside assistance club membership customers who want peace of mind with dependable roadside assistance.

A Commitment to Customers

“Our team is proud to receive this recognition,” says the KW Towing team. “It shows that the community values the work we do, and it motivates us to continue providing the reliable service our customers depend on. Whether it’s an unexpected breakdown, an accident, or simply a flat tire, we are committed to helping drivers get back on the road quickly and safely.”

Strengthening Community Trust

Earning the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in Waterloo reinforces KW Towing’s promise to continue delivering professional, timely, and dependable towing and roadside solutions to residents and businesses throughout the region.

To learn more about KW Towing or to request service, visit www.kwtow.com or CLICK HERE.

About Consumer Choice Award
Since 1987, Consumer Choice Award has been recognising and promoting business excellence across North America. Through a rigorous selection process, only the most outstanding businesses in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Learn more at www.ccaward.com.

Contact Information:
Sumi Saleh
Communications Manager
ssaleh@ccaward.com

SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

WATERLOO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / J&J Painting, a trusted name in residential and commercial painting services, has been recognized with the 2026 Consumer Choice Award in the Painting Contractor category for Waterloo. Known for its commitment to quality, precision, and outstanding customer service, the company continues to raise the bar for professional painting in the region.

With decades of combined experience, the team at J&J Painting specializes in transforming both interior and exterior spaces with craftsmanship that reflects each client’s vision. From homes and offices to larger-scale commercial properties, every project is approached with care, skill, and attention to detail.

Tailored Painting Solutions for Every Project

At J&J Painting, no two projects are treated the same. The company prides itself on providing detailed, personalized quotes that reflect the unique requirements of each space-taking into account surface condition, scope, client preferences, and budget.

“We understand that painting isn’t just about colour-it’s about trust, timelines, and transformation,” says the J&J Painting team. “Whether it’s a small touch-up or a full property refresh, we work closely with each client to ensure the final result aligns with their expectations.”

The team handles projects of all sizes, offering complete interior and exterior painting services for both residential and commercial clients throughout the Waterloo region.

A Reputation Built on Service and Satisfaction

What sets J&J Painting apart is their unwavering focus on delivering not just a finished project-but a smooth, professional experience from start to finish. Their crews are punctual, respectful of the property, and committed to cleanliness and safety on every job site.

Customer satisfaction is at the core of every decision. This commitment has led to a growing base of repeat clients and referrals-many of whom cite the company’s professionalism, transparency, and consistent results as key reasons for choosing J&J Painting.

“Our goal is to make the painting process as stress-free and rewarding as possible,” the team explains. “We’re not done until our client is completely satisfied.”

Residential and Commercial Expertise

J&J Painting is fully equipped to manage a wide variety of projects, including private homes, rental units, condos, offices, retail spaces, and multi-unit buildings. Their service offerings include surface preparation, priming, painting, staining, and finishing-all carried out using high-quality materials and techniques that stand the test of time.

The company’s experience across both residential and commercial sectors ensures flexibility and professionalism in even the most demanding environments.

Community Recognition and Industry Integrity

Receiving a Consumer Choice Award reflects the trust that homeowners and business owners across Waterloo continue to place in J&J Painting. This distinction is based on independent research, consumer feedback, and market reputation, making it a meaningful indicator of service excellence.

“We’re honoured to receive this recognition,” says the J&J Painting team. “It’s a testament to the hard work of our crew and the loyalty of our clients. We’re grateful for the continued support and look forward to serving the community for years to come.”

Looking Ahead

As J&J Painting continues to grow, the company remains committed to upholding the standards that earned them this recognition: transparency, professionalism, and outstanding workmanship. With every project, they aim to bring colour and character to the spaces that matter most to their clients.

To learn more about J&J Painting’s services or request a quote, visit www.jandjpainting.net or explore their CCA Profile.

About J&J Painting
Based in Waterloo, J&J Painting offers professional interior and exterior painting services for residential and commercial properties. Known for its detailed project planning, expert craftsmanship, and focus on customer satisfaction, the company provides customized painting solutions designed to enhance and transform every space.

About Consumer Choice Award
Since 1987, Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence across North America. Through a rigorous selection process, only the most outstanding businesses in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Learn more at www.ccaward.com.

Contact Information
Sumi Saleh
Communications Manager
ssaleh@ccaward.com

SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

WASHINGTON, D.C. / ACCESS Newswire / September 12, 2025 / Airlines and suppliers were celebrated for their meaningful advancements in passenger experience at the prestigious APEX/IFSA Awards Ceremony in Long Beach, California. Hosted by the APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) and the IFSA (International Flight Services Association) during the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO, the ceremony is regarded as the industry’s premier awards event, recognizing innovation, dedication, and leadership that set new standards for excellence across the skies.

“What sets the APEX/IFSA Awards apart comes from how our awards program moves beyond recognition; it actively drives excellence across our entire industry,” APEX/IFSA Group CEO Dr. Joe Leader stated. “Unlike other award platforms, these honors reflect both the voices of millions of global passengers and the rigorous assessments of independent experts. This powerful combination establishes the APEX/IFSA Awards as the most trusted and impactful distinction in aviation today, one that champions innovation, elevates service, and accelerates the pursuit of a world-class passenger experience.”

The APEX/IFSA Awards Ceremony honored global airlines across the following distinguished categories:

APEX CEO Lifetime Achievement Award:Dr. Leader presented United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby with the APEX CEO Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his visionary leadership and significant contributions to transforming the passenger experience and the global aviation industry. This award celebrates a career defined by remarkable achievements, commitment to excellence, and a lasting legacy that inspires the future of air travel. Read the full press release here.

2026 APEX WORLD CLASS™: Reserved for the very best in global aviation, the World Class Awards honors the top 10 airlines that have set the standard for excellence in today’s air travelers triple checked with by an intensive audit by Yates and Partners. The APEX World Class™ awards recognize top quality and mastery across dimensions that matters most to today’s travelers across the constructs of Safety & Well-Being, Sustainability, Service-Guest Experience, and F&B Execution. This year’s APEX World Class™ airlines are ANA,Emirates, Fiji Airways, Japan Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, SAUDIA, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines.Read the full press release here.

APEX Five Star™ and APEX Four Star™ Airline Awards: The APEX Five Star™ and Four Star™ Airline Awards stand as the industry most desired honor as it is entirely based on neutral, third-party passenger feedback through APEX’s partnership with TripIt®, the world’s leading travel-organizing app. Over one million verified flights have been rated across 600 airlines from around the world using a five-star scale. For 2026, the ratings criteria have increased, limiting the APEX Five Star™ to the top 40 airlines, and the APEX Four Star™ to honor the next 50 airlines, including the Top 10 Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) in the world. Together with the highest echelon of the top 10 APEX World Class™ airlines, these awards collectively recognize the Top 100 airlines in the world for passenger experience. Click here for the 2026 APEX Five Star™ and Four Star™ Airline Award recipients.

Crystal Cabin Award:APEX is proud to continue its partnership with the Crystal Cabin Award Association as the prestigious awards program officially opens submissions for 2026. Recognized globally as the leading honor for aircraft cabin innovation, the Crystal Cabin Award celebrates groundbreaking ideas that shape the future of the passenger experience, from design to technology and beyond. APEX looks forward to supporting this next chapter of aviation excellence. The application phase opens on 15 September. Submit your ideas here and save the date: 14 April for the Crystal Cabin Award ceremony on the first day of the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg, Germany.

2026 APEX Best™ Airline Awards:These awards celebrate the airlines that deliver the very best in the passenger experience, as voted by passengers across more than 600 airlines worldwide via TripIt®. This year’s global winners showcase excellence across every touchpoint of the inflight experience: Korean Air for Best Cabin Service, Emirates for Best Entertainment, Qatar Airways for Best Food & Beverage (presented in conjunction with IFSA), EVA Air for Best Seat Comfort, and Delta Air Lines for Best Wi-Fi. Click here for more information on the winners.

2026 APEX/IFSA Awards: Honored by their industry peers, the APEX/IFSA Awards spotlight the most innovative and impactful achievements introduced over the past year. Each winner is recognized for pioneering advancements that set new benchmarks for the passenger experience across the following categories:

2026 APEX AWARD WINNERS:

• Air Canada – Innovation Award for Best Inflight Connectivity

• FlightPath3D – Innovation Award for Best Inflight Entertainment

2026 APEX/IFSA AWARD WINNER:

• ANA – Innovation Award for Best Cabin

2026 IFSA AWARD WINNERS:

• Fiji Airways – Best Inflight Food or Beverage

• Delta Air Lines – Best Onboard Amenity

The APEX/IFSA Awards Ceremony, which took place during APEX/IFSA EXPO, was co-sponsored Thales & West Entertainment.

For more information on the APEX Award Ceremony and photos of all the awards given out, please visit apex.aero and follow APEX on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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About the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX)
As a global non-profit and one of the world’s largest international airline associations, APEX advances passenger experience with the backing of nearly every major airline and valued supplier over the past 42 years.  In conjunction with both the International Flight Services Association (IFSA) and Future Travel Experience (FTE), APEX serves the full spectrum of the end-to-end travel experience. APEX reinvests all its resources to serving its members, strengthening the worldwide airline industry, advancing thought-leadership, fostering business opportunities via events, developing global initiatives, setting key airline standards, and highlighting well-deserved recognition across our industry.

About the International Flight Services Association (IFSA)
The International Flight Services Association (IFSA) is a global professional association serving the needs and interests of airline and railway personnel, caterers and suppliers who provide onboard services on regularly scheduled travel routes. Under the umbrella of APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association) serving every major airline in the world, IFSA is dedicated to the advancement of the art and science of the multi- billion dollar inflight and railway onboard service industry. For more information about IFSA, please visit ifsa.apex.aero, or follow IFSA on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

SOURCE: APEX (Airline Passenger Experience Association)

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As prospective home buyers look for flexible solutions, Liberty unveils home loan options designed to help more borrowers step onto the property market.

MELBOURNE, AU / ACCESS Newswire / September 11, 2025 / Leading non-bank lender Liberty has announced a series of updates to its residential product suite designed to offer greater flexibility and support more borrowers.

Among these updates are decreased rates for new customers, the introduction of 40-year loan terms and increased loan limits.

Communications Manager, Bernadine Pantarotto, says these changes reflect the lender’s commitment to helping Australians enter the property market sooner.

“At Liberty, we believe in empowering more Australians to achieve their homeownership goals, and these updates to our home loan offering were made with home buyers front of mind,” said Ms Pantarotto.

The increase in home loan limits of up to $10 million for full doc and $8 million for low doc loans, as well as new 40-year loan terms, are designed to provide greater choice for customers.

“Our home loan solutions are here to help open doors for more borrowers,” said Ms Pantarotto.

Another key enhancement is the update to Liberty’s Lenders Mortgage Protection (LMP) offering for eligible borrowers with loan-to-value ratios (LVR) above 85%.

“This feature allows customers with strong serviceability to use a smaller deposit while avoiding the high cost of traditional lenders mortgage insurance,” said Ms Pantarotto.

Whether it’s a first home, a fresh start, or a long-term investment, Liberty’s expanded offering is designed to support borrowers with choice and flexibility.

“Our range of home loan solutions, including low doc and low deposit options, could help more people with their property plans,” added Ms Pantarotto.

Liberty proudly takes a free-thinking approach to lending compared to traditional lenders.

“We know every home buyer’s journey is different, which is why we look beyond the numbers to understand a customer’s unique circumstances,” said Ms Pantarotto.

Alongside home loans, Liberty offers solutions across personal, car, commercial, business and SMSF loans.

“With nearly 30 years of experience, we’ve helped over 900,000 people reach their lending goals,” said Ms Pantarotto.

About Liberty
As one of Australia’s leading non-bank lenders, Liberty offers innovative solutions to support customers with greater choice. For nearly 30 years, this free-thinking approach to loan solutions has seen more than 900,000 customers across a wide range of home, car, business and personal loans, as well as SMSF lending and insurance. Liberty remains the only non-bank lender with an investment-grade credit rating offering custom and prime solutions to help more people get financial.

Approved applicants only. Lending criteria apply. Fees and charges are payable. Liberty Financial Pty Ltd ACN 077 248 983 and Secure Funding Pty Ltd ABN 25 081 982 872 Australian Credit Licence 388133, together trading as Liberty Financial.

Contact
Laura Orchard
Media Coordinator
P: +61 3 8635 8888
E: mediaenquiries@liberty.com.au

SOURCE: Liberty

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire