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Parcel Perform Launches First AI Visibility Index for E-Commerce Brands

Public Ranking Reveals Which Retailers ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini Actually Recommend When Shoppers Ask "Where Should I Buy?" SINGAPORE and BERLIN, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Parcel Perform, a global AI-powered delivery experience platform, today launched the AI Visibility Index for E-Commerce Brands. It is the first public benchmarking tool built specifically to track how AI shopping assistants recommend e-commerce brands to consumers. The Index fills a critical gap in the market, making objective intelligence on AI recommendations publicly available for the first time. While generic tools focus on broad brand mentions, the Index identifies which retailers are actually winning the "recommendation" when a shopper shows purchase intent. "We're seeing shoppers bypass search entirely and ask AI assistants (ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and others) 'best shoes for trail running,' 'best gift for coffee lovers,' or 'where to buy furniture,'" said Dr. Arne Jeroschewski, CEO of Parcel Perform. "But e-commerce brands are just starting to get into this game, and most have zero visibility into those recommendations. You could be invisible to AI assistants while competitors capture the sale." What the AI Visibility Index Reveals The AI Visibility Index ranks the top 10 e-commerce brands weekly across e-commerce industries worldwide. Each brand receives three core scores: Visibility Score (0-100%): Whether the brand appears in AI responses when shoppers ask purchase-intent questions. LLM Ranking (1-10): Where the brand ranks in AI assistant recommendations, with week-over-week position changes. Brand Trust Score (-/+100%): How positively or negatively AI assistants describe the brand when answering questions. Today's launch covers eight industries across the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, with additional industries and regions added weekly. Existing AI visibility tools track brand mentions but miss what matters for retail: product category granularity, purchase-intent prompts, and actual recommendations. While the public Index provides high-level industry rankings, Parcel Perform's AI Commerce Visibility provides the deeper intelligence brands need to stay competitive—identifying visibility at the product category level, seeing the exact prompts driving recommendations, and uncovering specific presence gaps. "These aren't website traffic metrics or keyword rankings," said Dr. Arne Jeroschewski, CEO of Parcel Perform. "This is a direct measurement of the answers AI assistants actually give when a consumer asks for a shopping recommendation: which e-commerce brands they mention, in what order, and with what sentiment." The Index is designed for immediate transparency. Parcel Perform publishes the pre-built prompt libraries for each industry, allowing brands to see—at a glance—the specific purchase-intent questions driving their rankings. Brands seeking to explore the full depth of their AI performance may request a comprehensive, granular analysis. Competitive Intelligence for E-Commerce Industries The Index is observational and tracks AI recommendations without influencing them. "We're not paying for placement or trying to manipulate LLM outputs," said Dr. Arne Jeroschewski. "We're showing e-commerce brands objective data on how they currently rank so they can make informed decisions. Think of it as the Nielsen ratings for AI Commerce." This approach addresses the primary challenge for modern e-commerce: brands need purchase-intent intelligence, not just content monitoring. By measuring whether AI recommends a brand when a shopper asks "where should I buy?", Parcel Perform provides a new standard for visibility. Free Access Model The AI Visibility Index is freely accessible to the public at the following URL: http://parcelperform.com/products/ai-commerce-visibility/ai-visibility-index-ecommerce No registration is required to view industry rankings and top 10 brands. The Index updates every Monday with fresh data from the previous week. Additional industries and regions will also be added weekly. Industries at launch: Retail Apparel & Fashion Beauty & Cosmetics Sportswear & Sporting Goods Consumer Electronics Musical Instruments Luxury goods Furniture Interested e-commerce brands can request a detailed AI Commerce Visibility Report to understand their current standing and identify specific gaps in their AI presence. "We're making this knowledge available to everyone," said Dr. Arne Jeroschewski. "Every e-commerce brand should know whether AI assistants are recommending them or their competitors. This should be public knowledge. It should be as transparent as Google rankings." About Parcel Perform Parcel Perform is built on one of the largest logistics data infrastructures in delivery experience, processing billions of shipment events across 1,100+ carriers. We help customers optimize every stage—from EDD at checkout through post-purchase, returns, and logistics operations. Now the benchmark in delivery experience, Parcel Perform is the strategic partner that enables global e-commerce businesses to thrive in the age of AI Commerce. As AI shopping assistants reshape how consumers discover and buy, brands face a new imperative: get found by AI, then consistently deliver on promises. Parcel Perform helps e-commerce brands achieve AI visibility, then provide the cost-efficient delivery experience that turns every successful shipment into proof of reliability—building the trust that earns repeat AI recommendations. The platform handles enterprise complexity with the agility to go live in weeks—built for the speed of AI without sacrificing customization.

2026-02-17

With most islands in the world, Sweden offers five to travellers

Sweden invites tourists to make their dream come true: Applications open to get one of five of Sweden's more than 267,000 islands, defined by calm, clean air and restorative nature. STOCKHOLM, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The idea of escaping to a private island has long symbolised the ultimate dream for many, with islands embodying not just luxury but also space, rest and recovery. Sweden now offers the opportunity to make this dream come true by providing five of the country's islands to international travellers for one year of use. A recent global YouGov survey found that people are drawn to silence, fresh air, and free access to nature. 77% said they would consider visiting a Swedish island. 44% of respondents said they would gladly escape the crowds by going to their own island. In Germany and France, one in five admits they'd appreciate some time away from their life partner. The initiative Your Swedish Island now redefines luxury as simplicity, space, and nature rather than exclusivity or excess. Sweden boasts a total of 267,570 islands. "Sweden has more islands than any other country in the world, and we would like to invite people to enjoy what may be the most genuine form of luxury: the peace and tranquillity of nature on your own island", says Susanne Andersson, CEO at Visit Sweden. The initiative, launched by Visit Sweden in partnership with the National Property Board, welcomes travellers to apply to become custodians of one of five carefully selected islands. Each location is wonderfully secluded, yet close enough to a local community for essentials - whether it's picking up groceries, posting a letter, or joining a traditional Midsummer celebration. International travellers are welcome to upload videos explaining why they deserve a one-year right to use one of the five selected islands. A jury will select successful applicants based on creativity and personal motivation, who win a trip to Sweden. "If you don't get one of these islands, don't worry. Sweden has many more for everyone to enjoy," says Susanne Andersson. "From quiet lakes to open coastlines, there's an island paradise waiting for one and all." Source: Survey, June/July 2025, YouGov/Visit Sweden More about Your Swedish Island Press images; Images of Swedish islands Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vaTnvqgBkt4 Island paradise Sweden. Credits: Anders Klapp/imagebank.sweden.se

2026-02-17

Kung Fu Meets Spring -- Unitree Spring Festival Gala Robots Present "Cyber Real Kung Fu" in the Year of the Horse

HANGZHOU, China, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As the new year begins and all things renew, on the stage of the 2026 Spring Festival Gala of China Media Group, Unitree Robotics made its third appearance as the official robot partner of the Gala. Bringing its G1 and H2 humanoid robots, Unitree presented the world's first fully autonomous humanoid robot cluster martial arts performance (with quick cluster movement). I. Breaking Motion Performance Limits, Achieving Multiple World Firsts In this performance, Unitree's humanoid robots demonstrated unprecedented motion performance, achieving multiple world-first technical breakthroughs: the world's first continuous freestyle table-vaulting parkour; the world's first launched aerial flip, with a maximum flip height exceeding 3 meters; the world's first continuous single-leg flips, a two-step wall-assisted backflip, and the world's first Airflare grand spin of seven-and-a-half rotations and other high-difficulty movements. At the cluster coordination level, Unitree achieved the world's first high-speed cluster movement (with maximum arbitrary movement speed reaching 4 m/s). The robots are also equipped with newly self-developed dexterous hands, supporting rapid switching and stable gripping of martial arts props, providing reliable support for high-difficulty martial arts performances. These breakthroughs not only redefine the technical boundaries of humanoid robot motion performance, but also mark a comprehensive leap in explosive power, agility, coordination, and reliability, laying a solid foundation for future applications in complex scenarios. II. High-Concurrency Cluster Control System and Self-Developed AI Fusion Localization Algorithm The performance was coordinated using a newly upgraded high-concurrency cluster control system, enabling real-time synchronized movement of dozens of robots. Motion synchronization error was strictly controlled, achieving ultra-low latency synchronization. In terms of localization, an AI fusion localization algorithm was adopted—using AI to process proprioceptive data and deeply fusing it with 3D LiDAR data, processing environmental information hundreds of times per second. This algorithm ensures that the robots can maintain precise localization even after intense movements. It can prevent traditional localization algorithms from losing tracking or drifting during intense movements such as aerial flips. In motion control, the team fine-tuned pre-trained general control models, enabling robots to adjust their positions while performing martial arts movements. Combined with the AI fusion localization algorithm, this approach solved the problem of cumulative motion errors during long-sequence performances, ensuring consistent and unified movements throughout the show. The combined advancement of localization and control algorithms enabled robots to rapidly and accurately execute complex formation transitions, ultimately realizing the world's first fully autonomous humanoid robot cluster martial arts performance (with quick cluster movement). III. H2's Striking Appearances at the Main and Sub Venues At the conclusion of the main venue performance, H2 made its final appearance in the role of a "Sword Grandmaster." After a sword routine marked by controlled strength and rhythm, it took the young martial artist's hands, and together they stepped forward to perform a fist-and-palm salute—symbolizing both the generational inheritance of martial arts spirit and the future of human–machine integration. Meanwhile, at the Yiwu sub-venue thousands of kilometers away, H2 appeared clad in the Monkey King's heavy armor, wielding a golden cudgel, and standing atop a "somersault cloud" played by B2W quadruped robot dogs. It moved through streets and alleys before descending from the sky and landing at the Egg Theater, deeply integrating with traditional culture. Chinese Kung Fu once again amazes the world, as traditional culture and technology advance together in a win-win partnership. From a globally screen-dominating debut to hard-core capabilities that continue to lead the industry, Unitree remains driven by innovation, advancing humanoid robots toward broader horizons. In 2025, Unitree humanoid robots gained global popularity, with shipment volume ranking No.1 worldwide. In 2026, leading the way at full speed and advancing day by day, Unitree continues to drive the global embodied intelligence industry forward.

2026-02-17

Chula Researchers Reimagine Thai Cuisine for People with Swallowing Disorders

BANGKOK, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Researchers at Chulalongkorn University have developed a new cookbook designed to improve nutrition, safety, and quality of life for older adults and people with swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia. Titled Happy to Swallow: 52 Simple Recipes for Delicious Dysphagia Meals, the publication adapts popular Thai dishes into texture-modified meals that are safe to swallow while remaining visually appealing and flavorful. Chula Researchers Reimagine Thai Cuisine for People with Swallowing Disorders The cookbook is led by Assitstant Professor Dr. Varanya Techasukthavorn, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences. It builds on the team's earlier work, 46 IDDSI-Compliant Swallowing Practice Menus, Thailand's first cookbook developed under the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). The new volume translates years of academic research on texture-modified foods into practical guidance for home kitchens and care settings. The book features 52 recipes spanning familiar Thai main dishes, desserts, and beverages that have been redesigned to reduce choking risk while preserving authentic flavor and presentation. Each recipe was tested and refined in a kitchen laboratory to ensure safety, palatability, and nutritional adequacy. Malnutrition remains a significant concern among older adults and individuals with dysphagia, many of whom avoid eating due to fear of choking or dissatisfaction with unappealing puréed foods. To address this, all recipes are developed by professional dietitians to provide balanced nutrients and adequate energy intake. The cookbook emphasizes natural, locally available ingredients and minimizes the use of additives, making it accessible to families and caregivers. All dishes comply with IDDSI standards, a globally recognized framework used in hospitals and long-term care facilities to classify food textures and liquid thickness. The bilingual Thai-English format broadens the book's reach to international caregivers, healthcare professionals, and foreign seniors living in Thailand. The publication forms part of a national research project examining the implementation of IDDSI-based diets in hospitals nationwide and is partially funded by the Ratchadapisek Somphot Fund of Chulalongkorn University. Researchers say the project aims not only to improve nutrition and safety, but also to restore dignity, confidence, and enjoyment at the dining table. Happy to Swallow is available as a free digital download and for purchase through designated online platforms, serving as a practical resource for caregivers and health professionals seeking safer, culturally familiar meals for people with swallowing difficulties. Contact LINE Official Account: @dysphagiadiet.th for more information. Read the full article and download Happy to Swallow: 52 Simple Recipes for Delicious Dysphagia Meals for free at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/278578 The book is available for purchase via the Happy to Swallow Facebook page.https://www.facebook.com/happytoswallow/ Read the full article at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/278578/ About Chulalongkorn University Chulalongkorn University has made the world's top 50 university list for employment outcomes, which reflects both the high employment rate and work ability of Chula graduates. The university is also listed as the best in Thailand for the 15th Consecutive Year (since 2009), according to the newly released QS World University Rankings 2024, putting Chula at 211th in the world, up from 244th last year. Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChulalongkornUniversityYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/chulauniversityLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/15101896/

2026-02-17

LG ELECTRONICS PRESENTS THE FUTURE OF LUXURY HOME LIVING AT KBIS 2026

Expanded LG SIGNATURE and SKS Lineups and New Builder Solutions Strengthen LG's North American B2B Appliance Strategy News Summary LG Electronics introduces its latest premium home solutions at KBIS 2026, including AI-powered appliances and design-led innovations across kitchen and laundry categories. The exhibit highlights expanded LG SIGNATURE and SKS lineups featuring refined design, advanced functionality and intelligent features. LG's Core Tech-powered appliances deliver exceptional performance in diverse residential spaces while the LG ThinQ™ AI platform enables a seamless smart home integration. LG also presents builder-focused appliance packages and the ThinQ Pro platform, designed to support B2B customers across diverse residential environments. SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics (LG) is showcasing a wide selection of premium home solutions at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), North America's largest kitchen and bath tradeshow, held in Orlando, Florida, from February 17-19. Featuring the expanded LG SIGNATURE portfolio, SKS's luxury appliances and the ThinQ AI and ThinQ Pro platforms, the exhibit highlights LG's expanding presence across both consumer and builder markets in North America. LG Electronics showcases a wide selection of luxury home solutions at KBIS 2026, North America’s largest kitchen and bath tradeshow. LG SIGNATURE: Refined Design Meets Cutting-edge Technology Visitors to LG's booth will encounter the expanded LG SIGNATURE portfolio of premium lifestyle solutions. Tailored to the evolving North American housing trends, the latest lineup combines technological innovation with refined design to reinterpret modern living. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, LG SIGNATURE offers an extended kitchen lineup covering 10 product categories. The brand's sleek solutions represent the perfect balance of form and function, combining refined design and strong performance with convenient AI features to further enhance and enrich the user experience. LG SIGNATURE presents three distinct design collections – Iconic, Tailored and Seamless – each reflecting regional lifestyle preferences and interior trends while expressing the brand's refined minimal design identity. The Iconic Collection echoes the eye-catching color palettes popular in luxury condominiums, the Tailored Collection offers customization options including materials and finishes, and the Seamless Collection – developed in collaboration with Italian luxury living brand Poliform – delivers a subtle yet elegant aesthetic that seamlessly blends in with a diverse range of interior styles. SKS Expands the High-end Living Experience from Kitchen to Laundry At KBIS 2026, LG introduces the ultra-premium SKS brand's first laundry solution alongside its latest kitchen lineup. Built on the pillars of precision, ingenuity and passion, SKS continues to expand its portfolio towards a Technicurean whole-home living environment. The new 29-inch SKS WashCombo™ and SKS Dryer incorporate advanced AI-driven fabric-care technologies and can be paired to create a fully integrated, efficient laundry environment. Highlights of the SKS kitchen lineup include the much-anticipated 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Column Refrigerator, which automatically optimize cooling and ice production based on usage patterns. The innovative SKS Hidden Induction Island System delivers a clean, seamless appearance and intuitive usability with an invisible induction cooktop and downdraft hood. The all-new 36-inch Full-Flex induction cooktop with two extended cooking zones that support oversized cookware up to 12.6 inches is also on display. LG is hosting live cooking shows at its booth, allowing visitors to experience the intelligent features and cooking precision of the latest SKS kitchen appliances. LG's Core Tech and AI Platform Maximize Reliability and Convenience The premium appliances on show at KBIS owe their powerful performance and impressive durability to the company's highly efficient Core Tech component technologies. LG's laundry solutions incorporate proprietary Dual Inverter Heat Pump technology and Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive™ (AI DD™) motor, while the Zero Clearance hinge in LG's Fit & Max refrigerators enables flexible installation and a flush-to-the-wall fit. LG also demonstrates how its AI Home upgrades daily living via the smooth integration of AI appliances and the ThinQ AI platform, which encompasses the ThinQ ON AI Home hub, and the ThinQ UP and ThinQ Care services. Supported by LG Shield cybersecurity system, LG's AI Home helps safeguard personal data and sensitive information while enabling personalized comfort and convenience. Broadening Builder-Focused Solutions in North America Targeting the North American builder market, LG introduces appliance packages designed for residential developments, including compact kitchen and laundry solutions as well as double-configured Styler packages. Visitors can also explore LG ThinQ Pro, a space management platform for B2B customers that enables integrated system operation through simple QR-based setup and centralized monitoring. "We are redefining the home experience across luxury, premium and mainstream segments by combining design sophistication, AI intelligence and seamless platform integration," said Steve Baek, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. "With a complete built-in appliance portfolio and differentiated builder offerings, we will continue to strengthen our leadership in the North American B2B appliance market." LG welcomes KBIS 2026 attendees to experience its latest premium home solutions firsthand at the LG booth (#W2100, Orange County Convention Center). About LG Electronics Home Appliance Solution Company  The LG Home Appliance Solution Company (HS) is a global leader in home appliances and AI home solutions. By leveraging industry-leading core technologies, the HS Company is committed to enhancing consumers' quality of life and promoting sustainability. The company develops thoughtfully designed kitchen and living appliance solutions and has recently integrated LG's Robot Business Division to incorporate advanced robot technologies into its home solutions. Together, these products offer enhanced convenience, exceptional performance, efficient operation and sustainable lifestyle solutions. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com. Marking its 10th anniversary, the latest LG SIGNATURE offers an extended lineup with three distinct design collections. SKS expands the high-end living experience from kitchen to laundry. The premium appliances with LG’s Core Tech component technologies deliver reliability, while offering everyday convenience along with the Fit & Max design through the Zero Clearance hinge. LG introduces appliance packages designed for residential developments, along with its space management platform for B2B customers, LG ThinQ Pro.

2026-02-17

Canada's First heytea lab Debuts at Toronto Eaton Centre, Unveiling 8 Global Exclusive Limited-Edition Drinks

TORONTO, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the originator of New-Style Tea, heytea, officially opened its first Canadian heytea lab at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (TEC), marking a major milestone in its North American expansion following the debut of its overseas heytea lab in New York's Times Square in early 2025. heytea lab at CF Toronto Eaton Centre As the brand's most avant-garde retail concept, heytea lab serves as a creative hub for tea innovation, flavor exploration, and aesthetic presentation. The TEC opening introduces the "tea lab" series to Canada for the first time, featuring eight globally exclusive, limited-edition beverages crafted for international markets, anchored in the newly developed Rock Oolong tea base—naturally high in aroma and complexity—and reimagining tea through layered flavor design and textural contrast. To celebrate the grand opening, heytea partnered with renowned Canadian chef Susur Lee to present a refined fusion of haute cuisine and tea culture. The co-created signature drinks, Rock Oolong Caviar and Rock Oolong Caviar Ice Cream, reinterpret contemporary Chinese tea through contrast and balance, pairing savory caviar with the floral depth of Rock Oolong to deliver a fine-dining-inspired sensory experience. The collaboration reflects heytea's vision of elevating tea in a broader culinary dialogue. Designed as an immersive creative showcase, the store transforms the R&D process visually. Displays of raw tea leaves, botanical ingredients, and extraction equipment offer transparency into craftsmanship and invite guests to engage with the story behind every drink. Since entering Canada with its first Vancouver store in 2023, heytea has expanded strategically across the Vancouver and Toronto metropolitan areas, with the TEC flagship signaling its entry as the first New-Style Tea brand into this premier Canadian shopping landmark. The brand now operates six stores nationwide, supported by a dedicated Toronto distribution center launched in December 2025 to ensure consistent quality and supply chain stability. Through heytea lab, the brand continues to position tea as a cultural medium, building meaningful connections within Toronto's diverse community. About heytea Founded in 2012, heytea revolutionized traditional bubble tea by committing to natural ingredients and today operates around 4,000 stores across more than 330 cities worldwide, with over 100 locations in Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and overseas markets, including more than 45 in North America. The brand has partnered with global fashion, entertainment, and cultural brands including FENDI, alexanderwang, WICKED, POP MART, and Yayoi Kusama.

2026-02-17

SMU MBA Rises in FT Global Rankings, Excelling in ESG, Salary and Value-for-Money

Programme advances across key Financial Times metrics, including ESG and Net Zero teaching, value-for-money and career outcomes, reinforcing its global reputation SINGAPORE, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore Management University's (SMU) Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme has advanced 15 spots to rank again among the best business schools globally in the Financial Times (FT) 2026 Top 100 Global MBAs. Significantly, SMU's MBA programme excelled in key metrics such as sustainability-focused teaching, world-leading research and career progression. FT's newly released annual ranking evaluated 100 MBA programmes worldwide against a rigorous set of criteria. Drawing on comprehensive surveys of both business schools and their graduates, the closely watched rankings assessed programme design alongside institutional strengths. "In a period of heightened global uncertainty, we have embedded ESG and sustainability across the MBA curriculum in response to pressing business expectations, ensuring our graduates are equipped to lead responsibly," said Professor Bert De Reyck, Dean of SMU's Lee Kong Chian School of Business. "Our performance in the Financial Times rankings reflects our focus on preparing leaders who can navigate complexity, drive organisational performance and contribute meaningfully to business and society." Significantly, the SMU MBA achieved a major leap of 57 places to place 18th globally in the FT's 'ESG and net zero teaching' ranking, reflecting the programme's strong integration of ESG-focused content and commitment to long-term value creation. The SMU MBA's international faculty and student diversity served to enable multi-faceted perspectives that enriched ESG discussions, further reinforcing the programme's global orientation. This recognition affirmed SMU's commitment to equipping graduates with practical skills to meet the growing demand across industries worldwide, for sustainability and responsible investing expertise. In terms of FT's metric of 'research ranking', the SMU MBA jumped four spots to notch 2nd place in Singapore and 33rd place globally. This underscored the programme's strong research foundations and its integration of research-led insights into curriculum, in alignment with the University's SMU2030 vision of creating meaningful impact and transforming lives through education, research and partnerships. Since its inception in 2009, the SMU MBA has consistently delivered solid value to its graduates. Of note, the programme ranked amidst the top tier at 23rd spot globally in the FT's 'value-for-money' indicator, which measured the average alumni salary three years after graduation relative to the total cost of the MBA. The programme jumped 18 spots in FT's metric of 'career progress' (to 56th), demonstrating advancement amongst alumni three years after graduation. SMU MBA alumni reported a weighted salary of US$155,830 which underscored the programme's strong post-MBA earning trajectory. The programme's strong showing in the latest FT rankings attested to the SMU MBA's effectiveness in preparing graduates to navigate global and economic change. As geopolitical tensions, trade uncertainties and technology reshape industries and career pathways, the programme jumped 15 spots to rank within the top tier MBAs (57th worldwide, 13th in Asia) and to deliver significant and measurable outcomes for its graduates. Commitment to lifelong learning The University regularly enhances curricula to reflect shifts in business and society, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the realities of a rapidly changing global economy. Most recently, SMU launched a new Master of Science in Business AI, aimed at developing business leaders fluent in AI and grounded in cross-functional business knowledge and strategy. As part of its commitment to lifelong learning, SMU supports professionals and alumni seeking to upskill or pivot at different career stages through its postgraduate offerings, including the MBA, with more than 100 scholarships available. About the SMU MBA Started in 2009, the SMU MBA is a well-recognised programme characterised by close engagement with industry. Students learn through real-world case studies from Asia, alongside best practices from global companies. Helmed by an internationally diverse faculty who deliver interactive and seminar-style classes, the SMU MBA provides valuable opportunities to build networks and to engage with outstanding leaders from the business community. The MBA programme at SMU stands out for its flexibility, allowing students to tailor their educational journey to fit their unique schedules. Each year, there are dual intakes offered for both the part-time and full-time programmes. With a thoughtfully designed structure, graduates can achieve their MBA in as little as 10, 12 or 15 months, ensuring flexibility amidst hectic professional schedules. Learners have the option of tailoring their learning journey by selecting the number of elective modules they take each term, allowing flexibility in their completion timeline. SMU LKCSB was one of the youngest business schools in the world and the only Singaporean business school in 2018 to achieve 'Triple Crown' accreditation. This distinction of being triple accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), AMBA and European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), is held by a very select group of business schools around the world. Visit FT Global MBA Rankings for the full results.

2026-02-16

MDEC and MDV Join Forces to Accelerate WAHDAH's Mission in Shaping Malaysia's Digital Mobility and Travel Tech Ecosystem

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia's digital transformation continues to gain momentum as the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) strengthens its efforts to empower local innovators through strategic collaborations and alternative funding avenues. WAHDAH exchanging MoU documents with Haup Car at MDEC DEX Connex 2025, reinforcing regional mobility collaboration between Malaysia and Thailand. One of the latest success stories emerging from Malaysia's digital ecosystem is WAHDAH Technologies Sdn. Bhd., a homegrown mobility and travel-tech company that connects mobility, automotive and tourism sectors through an integrated digital platform. MDEC has been instrumental in WAHDAH's journey, facilitating ecosystem visibility, providing market access and enabling participation in strategic digital adoption programmes These initiatives have helped strengthen WAHDAH's technological capabilities, accelerate its business model evolution and support its regional growth trajectory. This announcement comes at a pivotal time as Malaysia advances its digitalisation agenda under Malaysia Digital (MD) and RMK12, particularly within priority areas such as digital mobility, travel-tech and platform-based innovation. The collaboration between MDEC, Malaysia Debt Ventures Berhad (MDV) and WAHDAH also reinforces aspirations under AI Nation 2030, supporting the development of data-driven mobility solutions, fleet intelligence and cross-border digital trade. "MDEC remains committed to empowering high-potential Malaysian innovators such as WAHDAH to accelerate digital adoption and regional expansion," said Anuar Fariz Fadzil, Chief Executive Officer of MDEC "This collaboration with MDV reinforces key national priorities under Malaysia Digital (MD), RMK12 and AI Nation 2030 by supporting data-driven mobility platforms, strengthening digital-first business models and opening pathways for Malaysian tech companies to grow across Southeast Asia. WAHDAH's progress reflects the strength of Malaysia's ecosystem in nurturing future regional digital champions." Recognizing WAHDAH's potential to lead innovation in Malaysia's digital mobility landscape, Malaysia Debt Ventures Berhad (MDV), a subsidiary of the Minister of Finance (Incorporated) [MOF Inc] and an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), has extended a RM2.5 million financing facility to support and accelerate WAHDAH's mission. MDV's financing assistance model supports WAHDAH's working capital needs to sustain business growth and strengthen operational capacity. Together, MDEC and MDV have carved a clear growth pathway for WAHDAH, supporting its scale up and positioning the company towards a cumulative projected revenue growth of RM40 million WAHDAH is a mobility and travel tech company that connects the worlds of mobility, automotive, and tourism by empowering how people move, own, and experience travel across Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore through both physical hubs and digital platforms. Operating across all key economic regions of Malaysia, WAHDAH is supported by nearly 100 employees with physical touchpoints nationwide, including regional hubs and satellite offices in Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, Melaka, Johor Bahru, Jakarta and Singapore. These hubs serve as strategic bases that provide comprehensive end-to-end mobility and customer support solutions. By leveraging digital platforms and data-driven systems, WAHDAH has redefined the mobility experience across Southeast Asia. Its ecosystem includes Driveo, a fleet management platform that digitizes the full cycle of vehicle ownership from Purchase, Protect, Maintain, Earn, and Sell and Trevabook, a travel-tech brand that delivers authentic, locality-driven travel experiences in line with Malaysia's vision of sustainable and inclusive digital growth. "WAHDAH has demonstrated strong potential and capability to scale beyond Malaysian shores and MDV is confident that with the right funding support, it will continue to grow and deliver impact across the wider digital ecosystem," said Rizal Fauzi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MDV. This partnership underscores MDV's continued commitment to empowering technology-based companies and start-ups through innovative and specialized solutions that drive sustainable growth and strengthen Malaysia's position as a regional innovation hub." Following WAHDAH's strong performance, WAHDAH is continuously seeking strategic opportunities that can further accelerate its growth and technological advancement. The alignment between MDEC's digital empowerment programs and MDV's financing initiatives, and the success of local innovators like WAHDAH reflects Malaysia's evolving strategy, one that merges institutional support, innovation and entrepreneurship to strengthen the digital economy. Through continued collaboration, Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to building a dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive innovation ecosystem, one where public and private sectors move in tandem toward a shared vision of a future-ready digital nation.

2026-02-16

DBS is First Bank in Asia Pacific to Pilot Visa Intelligent Commerce for Everyday Payments

The collaboration validates AI-ready card credentials, authentication and payment signals on Visa Intelligent Commerce, ensuring ecosystem readiness for secure, agent-initiated payments SINGAPORE, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DBS Bank, Southeast Asia's largest bank and Visa, a global leader in digital payments today announced their ongoing collaboration to drive the future of agent-initiated payments via a joint pilot under Visa Intelligent Commerce (VIC). VIC brings together a comprehensive suite of integrated APIs and a partner programme, utilising Visa's secure infrastructure to enable safe, transparent and consent-driven payments by AI agents, on behalf of consumers. Illustrative reference of an agentic transaction with DBS Visa Altitude Through this collaboration with Visa, DBS is the first issuer in Asia Pacific to advance real-world agentic commerce use cases, marking a significant step in translating agentic commerce from concept to reality, as well as establishing the foundations for safe and scalable adoption across the region. A Visa commissioned study showed that generative AI chatbots have quickly become mainstream among Singapore consumers, with usage reaching exceptionally high levels. Close to 77% of Singapore residents are already using generative AI tools such as chatbots in their daily lives, signalling rapid adoption across age groups. This momentum is also reflected in online shopping behaviours — with eight in 10 Singapore consumers now relying on AI assistance when shopping online. These insights highlight how deeply integrated AI has become in the digital habits of Singaporeans today. Building on this momentum, DBS and Visa successfully demonstrated through a series of real-world food and beverage transactions that AI-powered agents can complete everyday tasks on behalf of customers using DBS/POSB credit and debit cards via secure, issuer-controlled flows. The collaboration will now enable DBS and Visa to explore a wider range of agentic commerce transactions, such as online shopping, travel bookings and more. These trials aim to make digital transactions more seamless for consumers, reduce manual steps and streamline payment processes – all while maintaining rigorous controls. "AI agents are unlocking a new phase in digital payments, where routine transactions can be completed efficiently and reliably, helping customers save time and simplify everyday tasks," said Ananya Sen, Group Head of Regional Consumer Products, DBS Bank. "Our collaboration with Visa shows how agent-led payments can be deployed securely and safely at scale, giving customers confidence in how transactions are made in an AI environment. By building these capabilities across our regional footprint, we are shaping the next generation of cards and payments, setting new standards for intelligent, trusted and seamless commerce." "This collaboration with DBS marks meaningful progress in advancing ecosystem readiness at a time when agentic commerce is rapidly evolving," said T.R. Ramachandran, Head of Products & Solutions, Asia Pacific at Visa. "Through Visa Intelligent Commerce and Trusted Agent Protocol, we're building the foundation that will make agentic commerce safe, secure and scalable — from AI‑ready credentials to advanced authentication. This sets the stage for how trusted, AI‑powered experiences will come to life for consumers and partners across the region." As the collaboration progresses, DBS is strengthening its readiness for agent-led commerce by validating AI‑ready credentials[1], advanced authentication and intent‑driven transaction controls. With Visa Intelligent Commerce, the collaboration is shaping a framework where trust, accountability and customer choice are built into every transaction. This approach positions DBS and Visa to help define how agentic commerce can scale responsibly across the region, balancing innovation with resilience, as well as convenience with confidence. [1] AI‑ready credentials are secure, tokenised card details that trusted AI agents can use to make purchases safely on cardholders' behalf, protected by Visa's authentication checks, intent‑driven safeguards and issuer‑managed permissions About DBSDBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank's "AA-" and "Aa1" credit ratings are among the highest in the world. Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named "World's Best Bank" by Global Finance, "World's Best Bank" by Euromoney and "Global Bank of the Year" by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named "World's Best Digital Bank" by Euromoney and the world's "Most Innovative in Digital Banking" by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the "Safest Bank in Asia" award by Global Finance for 17 consecutive years from 2009 to 2025. DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region's most dynamic markets. DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need. It provides essential needs to the underprivileged, and fosters inclusion by equipping the underserved with financial and digital literacy skills. It also nurtures innovative social enterprises that create positive impact. With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com. About VisaVisa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com. Illustrative reference of an agentic transaction with DBS Visa Altitude

2026-02-16

Thailand and Malaysia Lead as Top Visa‑Free Destinations for Indian Travellers - Agoda

Indonesia Emerges as the Top Visa on arrival Destination Based on Accommodation Search Data SINGAPORE, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest accommodation search data from digital travel platform Agoda reveals Thailand and Malaysia as the most preferred visa free international destinations among Indian travellers. Indonesia continues to lead among visa on arrival (VOA) markets. The data reflects an uptick in interest compared to last year toward destinations across Asia that combine easy entry requirements with diverse leisure and cultural experiences. Agoda analysed accommodation search data generated in India for visa‑free and VOA destinations, between 1 and 18 January 2026, for check‑in dates between February and March 2026. Among the combined top five destinations searched with visa free or VOA status, Thailand ranked first, followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Thailand (visa free) and Indonesia (VOA) remain firm favourites, offering diverse mix of beaches, culture, and adventure, while Malaysia (visa free) combines urban and natural experiences. Sri Lanka (VOA) recorded notable growth in accommodation searches, registering a 61% increase compared to last year, supported by its proximity and diverse offerings. Maldives (visa free) continues to draw Indian travellers seeking premium island escapes and short haul luxury stays. Together, these destinations underscore how Indian travellers are choosing destinations that offer strong value and simplified entry. Beyond the top five, Philippines (visa free) ranked sixth and recorded 73% year-on-year search growth, driven by interest from beach loving and adventure-oriented travellers, with water sports remaining a key draw. While Nepal (visa free) ranked seventh. Kazakhstan (visa free) ranked eighth and is seeing interest for its distinctive Central Asian landscapes, while Bhutan (visa free) ranked ninth and attracts travellers drawn to wellness and cultural immersion. Laos (VOA) ranked tenth and recorded the strongest search growth among all top destinations with a 97% increase, positioning itself as a culturally rich alternative within Southeast Asia, aided by simplified visa access and growing awareness among Indian travellers. Commenting on the trend, Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, "Indian travellers are becoming increasingly intentional about their travel choices, with ease of visa accessibility playing a decisive role. Agoda's 2026 Travel Outlook Report also revealed that if visa restrictions were not a factor, 84% of Indians would travel more frequently. 91% said that they would be open to exploring new destinations, the highest among their Asian peers. Furthermore, the growing search interest in emerging destinations such as Laos and the Philippines, alongside established favourites, reflect a growing appetite for diverse, culturally immersive yet hassle-free international travel." Travellers planning their upcoming getaways can browse Agoda's wide range of offerings, spanning over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000+ activities worldwide. The latest deals are available on the Agoda app or at agoda.com/deals.

2026-02-16