MGA Establishes MGA Studios with $500 million in Cash and Assets; Acquires Pixel Zoo Animation

The move signals MGA’s strong commitment to growing its dominance in the rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape by pursuing strategic gaming and tech acquisitions or partners

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MGA Entertainment, Inc. (MGA), one of the world’s largest and fastest growing privately held toy and entertainment companies, announced today the formation of MGA Studios, an independent subsidiary of MGA, backed with more than a half billion dollars in cash and assets. This move underscores MGA’s continued commitment to a rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape.  In fact, more than 35 years ago, when it wasn’t usual in the toy industry to incorporate entertainment, MGA embraced it and changed the company name from Micro Games of America to MGA Entertainment, Inc.

“While continued innovation in the toy category remains a key driver for our business, we understand the world is changing and are fully committed to carrying our winning legacy into this new and evolving digital landscape,” said Isaac Larian, Founder and CEO, MGA Entertainment, Inc. “In addition to growing our large catalogue of television, movie and streaming content, through MGA Studios we aim to create smaller and safer mini universes for our children to grow and develop in a seamless digital and physical entertainment ecosystem.”

MGA Entertainment also announced today that Pixel Zoo Animation, one of the leading digital animation studios globally, is MGA Studios’ first acquisition. During the past several years, Pixel Zoo has pushed the limits of high-quality animation and content for children and families. Paul Gillett, Founder and CEO of Pixel Zoo, will continue in his role supporting MGA Studios’ growth into a dominant position globally.

“During the past few years, we have been extremely impressed by MGA’s brands, how they partner with their suppliers, as well as their creative and execution capabilities. Intellectual Property development has always been an important part of our studio and this opportunity allows our team to show the world what we can do,” said Gillett. “Working with MGA has been one of the most rewarding experiences we have had, so partnering with them is the next natural step for us. I am excited for our studio to be the first foundational building block of MGA Studios.”

MGA Studios will be charged with independently developing and growing a digital presence through acquisitions, partnerships, and in-house development of innovative content and original intellectual property (IP). MGA Studios will leverage MGA Entertainment’s existing and future IP including L.O.L. Surprise!™, Little Tikes® Let’s Go Cozy Coupe®, Rainbow High™, Bratz®, Baby Born®, Mermaze Mermaidz™, Na! Na! Na! Surprise™, and more, with great new content and brands coming soon.

“MGA Entertainment has demonstrated time and again our ability to create multiple blockbuster brands from the ground up. The purpose of MGA Studios will be to facilitate the expansion of these brands beyond the toy aisle and turn them into true transmedia franchises, including entertainment, gaming, and online experiences,” said MGA Studios President, Jason Larian. “We are committed to bringing new partners into the fold to help realize our vision and the Pixel Zoo acquisition is the first step of many on this journey.”

MGA Entertainment and Pixel Zoo have collaborated on many notable projects during the last several years including L.O.L. Surprise! The Movie, available on Netflix; L.O.L. Surprise! House of Surprises series, available on YouTube and Netflix; Rainbow High series, available on YouTube and Netflix; Mermaze Mermaidz series, available on YouTube; Let’s Go Cozy Coupe series, available on YouTube and Amazon; and more. Their latest project together, L.O.L. Surprise! Winter Fashion Show movie, premiered on Netflix this past October.

About MGA Entertainment

MGA Entertainment is one of the world’s fastest growing and largest privately held toy and entertainment companies. Headquartered in Chatsworth, Calif. and with offices globally, the company creates innovative, proprietary, and licensed consumer products and entertainment, including toys, games, dolls, apparel, consumer electronics, home décor, stationery, sporting goods, movies, and television series. The MGA family includes award-winning brands such as L.O.L. Surprise!™Little Tikes®, Rainbow High™, Shadow High™, Bratz®, MGA’s Miniverse™, Na! Na! Na! Surprise™, Mermaze Mermaidz™ Color Change, Micro Games of America™Baby Born® Surprise and Zapf Creation®. For more information, please visit us at www.mgae.com or check us out at LinkedIn or Twitter.

About MGA Studios

MGA Studios is an independent subsidiary of MGA Entertainment, Inc. and a Delaware C-corp. The company is focused on developing and growing a safe digital environment for children and families to come together and enjoy wholesome entertainment across digital and physical platforms. MGA Studios has rights to more than 7,000 trademarks, patents, and copyrighted works and has financial backing of MGA Entertainment, Inc. For more information, please visit  www.MGAStudios.com

About Pixel Zoo 

Pixel Zoo is a full-service animation studio that has focused on digital content in both short and long forms. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Pixel Zoo is at the cutting edge of animation, pushing the boundaries and developing new techniques that have continually kept them on top as the industry develops and changes around them. Lead by a team of creatives Pixel Zoo prides itself on delivering a product that speaks for itself.

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NOTE TO EDITOR: Video clips and stills available of animated series and movie on request.

Attachments

Alan Hilowitz
MGA Entertainment, Inc.
+1.818.221.4431
news@mgae.com


GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8695466

JETEX & ROYALJET ANNOUNCE EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE JET SHUTTLE TO QATAR

RoyalJet, an award-winning global leader in premium private aviation, and Jetex seals a partnership to operate on-demand private jet flights between Dubai and Doha between 20 November and 18 December 2022.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 11, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Founded in 2003, RoyalJet is one of the most respected and acclaimed names in private aviation with the world’s largest fleet of Boeing Business Jet (11 aircraft).

This partnership combines the expertise of both companies to offer elevated and seamless customer experiences both on the ground and in the air.

Passengers can look forward to a truly luxurious experience onboard a Boeing Business Jet offering a bespoke VIP configuration equipped with the latest technology. Its spacious 30-seat cabin offers every comfort for the short flight between the two cities.

Mohammed Husain Ahmed, CEO of RoyalJet, said: “The partnership with Jetex enables RoyalJet to fulfill tourism demand during this exciting period in the GCC’s history. Customers will experience the very best in-flight experience on board the world-class RoyalJet fleet, coupled with Jetex’s superb private terminal and on-the-ground facilities.”

At the Jetex VIP Terminal in Dubai, passengers are invited to enjoy priority access, personalized service and luxurious hospitality in comfortable and tranquil lounges, discover spaces devoted to well-being as well, curated art collections and even a pop-up football field. Jetex team will take care of all pre-flight formalities and passengers will be ready to depart within minutes from their arrival at the airport.

Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex, commented: “This new, unprecedented and significant partnership with RoyalJet is the reflection of our high ambitions: embracing industry synergies to offer new services that keep customers at the center. By combining our best-in-class private terminal with the private charter expertise of RoyalJet, it will take us forward. The new opportunities offered to our customers are exactly what our teams are working for at Jetex: a unique and unforgettable experience.”

Offering the luxurious experience of private jet travel, the return itinerary is priced AED 29,000 per seat.

For reservations, please contact Jetex Premier Experience at experience@jetex.com. 

About Jetex:

An award-winning global leader in executive aviation, Jetex is recognized for delivering flexible, best-in-class trip support solutions to customers worldwide. Jetex provides exceptional private terminals (FBOs), aircraft fueling, ground handling and global trip planning. The company caters to both owners and operators of business jets for corporate, commercial and personal air travel. To find out more about Jetex, visit www.jetex.com and follow us on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and LinkedIn.

About RoyalJet:

RoyalJet LLC is an Abu Dhabi Emirates affiliated company which leads the global premium private aviation sector and is chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan.  With its headquarters in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, operates mainly from its Fixed Based Operations (FBO) / VIP Terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport and the company and its employees hold multiple certifications and licenses issued by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority and the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority.  RoyalJet LLC, through its Abu Dhabi and Bermuda entities, owns and/or operates 11 Boeing Business Jets and 3 Bombardier Global 5000/6000 aircraft, offering aircraft management, aircraft charter, aircraft leasing, medical evacuation flights, aircraft brokerage, flight support services, FBO services, aircraft maintenance, repair and CAMO services, aircraft acquisition and disposal services and VIP aviation consulting. RoyalJet LLC is a founding member of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), a member of various other industry associations, and its flight and ground operations are certified by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and under the Wyvern Wingman program.  Its FBO is also a member of the industry leading Air Elite Network.  RoyalJet LLC is also a proud multiple winner of the “World’s Leading Private Jet Charter” category at the annual World Travel Awards and its FBO has won multiple awards for its facilities and services.

https://www.royaljetgroup.com/

Press Enquiries:

Oleg Kafarov

Director of Portfolio Development & Corporate Communications

T: +971 4 212 4900   Email: teamorange@jetex.com

Yasmin Oronos

PR Executive

Aurora The Agency

+ 971(0) 56 335 2088 Email: yasmin@auroraadvertising.ae

Attachment

Oleg Kafarov - Director of Portfolio Development & Corporate Communications
Jetex
+971 4 212 4900
teamorange@jetex.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8695011

Hitachi Energy to provide world’s first SF6-free 420 kV gas-insulated switchgear technology at TenneT’s grid connection in Germany

Contributing to TenneT’s carbon neutrality goals to build a sustainable and resilient grid in Germany

Zurich, Switzerland, Nov. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hitachi Energy announced today it will provide the world’s first sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) free 420-kilovolt (kV) gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) technology and a state-of-the-art modular prefabricated grid connection solution at a key node at TenneT’s power grid in Germany, supporting the leading European grid operator to achieve its carbon neutrality goals.

This project covers a major grid connection upgrade which significantly extends the operating life of existing power assets to ensure the longevity and continued efficiency of the existing power infrastructure. The global technology leader will deliver innovative EconiQ™ 420 kV GIS that uses a game-changing technology that eliminates SF6 with reliable and scalable solutions for the lowest carbon footprint.

TenneT is a major transmission system operator in the Netherlands and Germany, supplying power to some 42 million homes and businesses in both countries. The company aims to be a driving force behind the energy transition by investing in eco-efficient technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As a transmission system operator, TenneT is a key player on the historic path to a safe, reliable and carbon-free energy system.

To support TenneT on its transition to SF6-free solutions, Hitachi Energy will contribute pioneering technologies, unique system integration capabilities, engineering expertise and extensive experience with local grid code requirements to strengthen the grid connection at the 220-megawatt (MW) Erzhausen pumped storage power plant near Hanover. This project uses Building Information Modeling, a consolidated and collaborative digital working method that allows decision-based 3D modeling and improves facility management via a digital twin for the life cycle of the power asset. The entire project will be completed in 2026.

In this project, Hitachi Energy will install three bays of EconiQ 420 kV GIS to enable the transmission of large amounts of electricity over long distances while eliminating significant volumes of SF6. This eco-efficient innovation remains similar in size while being 100 percent as reliable as the conventional GIS solution based on SF6. This installation will effectively avoid the addition of nearly 2,300 kg of SF6, equivalent to removing the CO2 emissions of around 1,1501 passenger vehicles per year.

“We are proud to collaborate with TenneT in their efforts to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen the power infrastructure in Germany,” said Claudio Facchin, Chief Executive Officer of Hitachi Energy. “At Hitachi Energy, we are championing the urgency of the energy transition through innovation and collaboration. Through our modular prefabricated grid connections and EconiQ high-voltage switchgear technology, we are supporting our customers to reduce their carbon footprint and enabling a more sustainable, flexible and secure energy system.”

EconiQ is Hitachi Energy’s eco-efficient portfolio for sustainability, where products, services and solutions are proven to deliver exceptional environmental performance. Hitachi Energy has placed sustainability at the heart of its Purpose and is advancing a sustainable energy future for all.

1 Based on the assumption that a passenger vehicle emits 19 kg CO2 equivalent per 100 km and drives 10,000 km per year.

About Hitachi Energy Ltd.

Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. We serve customers in the utility, industry and infrastructure sectors with innovative solutions and services across the value chain. Together with customers and partners, we pioneer technologies and enable the digital transformation required to accelerate the energy transition towards a carbon-neutral future. We are advancing the world’s energy system to become more sustainable, flexible and secure whilst balancing social, environmental and economic value. Hitachi Energy has a proven track record and unparalleled installed base in more than 140 countries. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ around 40,000 people in 90 countries and generate business volumes of approximately $10 billion USD.

https://www.hitachienergy.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hitachienergy

https://twitter.com/HitachiEnergy

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society with data and technology. We will solve customers’ and society’s challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, under the business structure of Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries and Automotive Systems. Driven by green, digital, and innovation, we aim for growth through collaboration with our customers. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2021 (ended March 31, 2022) totaled 10,264.6 billion yen ($84,136 million USD), with 853 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 370,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.com.

Attachments

Jocelyn Chang
Hitachi Energy Ltd.
+41793847775
jocelyn.chang@hitachienergy.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8692688

CryptoDATA Tech becomes RNF MotoGP Team majority and strategic shareholder

CryptoDATA Tech becomes RNF MotoGP Team majority and strategic shareholder

RNF Racing Ltd. is pleased to announce a new majority shareholder with CryptoDATA Tech, a blockchain-applied technologies pioneer and developer of hardware and software cybersecurity solutions. This strategic investment marks a significant milestone and a beginning of a new era for the fifteen months old RNF MotoGP team.*Ovidiu Toma – CEO CryptoDATA Tech (left), Carmelo Ezpeleta – CEO Dorna Sports (left-center), Razlan Razali – Team Principal RNF MotoGP Team (right-center), Bogdan Mărunțiș – Global Strategy CryptoDATA Tech (right).

BUCHAREST, Romania, Nov. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CryptoDATA Tech, a blockchain-applied technologies pioneer and developer of hardware and software cybersecurity solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of a majority stake in RNF Racing Ltd. This strategic investment marks a significant milestone and a beginning of a new era for the fifteen months old RNF MotoGP team and the Romanian holding.

After previously announcing the cybersecurity company as the Official Premium Partner for the final three races of the season, CryptoDATA’s became a partner who shared the same passion, values and recognised the potential value of a MotoGP team in the long term.

With CryptoDATA as the majority shareholder, the vision and strategy is to go beyond racing and expand the business and services into motorsports mainly in MotoGP and taking the role of the business and branding aspects of the team. RNF MotoGP Team will continue participating as an Independent Team in the premier class of the FIM MotoGP World Championship with Team Principal Razlan Razali remaining at the helm focusing on the sporting and technicality side of the team.

In conjunction with the final race of the season and to mark the start of this historical milestone, RNF MotoGP Team and CryptoDATA will be unveiling a special livery design on race day at the Valencia Grand Prix.

Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal, RNF Racing Ltd,
“Today marks a historical milestone for the team. I’d like to thank CryptoDATA for putting their trust in me and the team for the future.”

“In a short period of time, discussions have evolved into a long term commitment. We have extended our partnership, and as I previously stated, this is a fantastic collaboration. The union of the two companies will drive the team to not just perform in racing, but also to grow the business aspects of the team, and this is where both parties join forces to share expertise and experience. My main focus is to ensure the team fights for the championship while CryptoDATA’s team consisting of young, smart, innovative, and ambitious individuals will develop strategies to strengthen our position off track.”

“With the experience from our previous successes, the same strong and passionate crew from our MotoGP garage, and a solid rider line-up, we are set for a competitive comeback with CryptoDATA for the next season.”

Ovidiu TOMA, Chief Executive Officer and Founder, CryptoDATA Tech,
“We are delighted to extend our partnership and become the majority shareholder of the RNF MotoGP Team. The MotoGP World Championship is an exclusive and international showcase, a special universe where the starting grid is a stage for heroes in which CryptoDATA has found its space by sharing its values and objectives. We became the first Romanian company to Title Sponsor a Moto Grand Prix at the Red Bull track this year, and we are now more excited and motivated than ever to become the majority shareholder in the RNF Team. This represents not only a historical milestone for CryptoDATA, but also a new beginning and a significant incentive.

“We look to 2023 with optimism and confidence as our team is led by trained, serious, and experienced managers. We will do our best to support the team to achieve their goals and to reach their highest potential in MotoGP.”

Bogdan Mărunţiş, Global Strategy and Founder, CryptoDATA Tech,
“We are glad to announce our partnership with the RNF team, and we are confident that we can help the team set strategic goals for the upcoming season and long-term performance goals both on and off-track. We want to start the team’s transformation into a successful business that will provide unique experiences to our fans and partners while promoting our brand values in the top series of global racing.”

“As CryptoDATA representatives, we will be in charge of the business’s strategic management and will work to provide stability and further strengthen the team’s position in the MotoGP world and in the business world.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, Chief Executive Officer, Dorna Sports S.L,
“The agreement that Razlan Razali has reached with CryptoDATA allows him to maintain the viability and presence of his project in MotoGP. We are delighted to see a new sponsor supporting a team, especially one that Dorna brought to the championship. We were happy with the relationship with CryptoDATA at the Austrian Grand Prix, they have the idea to develop and the idea to put things together with Aprilia next year which is the stability needed for MotoGP, it’s a very warm welcome for CryptoDATA to MotoGP. The fact that they are not just limiting their participation in the sponsorship area but in an entire team shows the importance of Motorsport and of MotoGP in particular. We know that Razlan had many requests, and we believe he has chosen the best option for the future and to consolidate his structure.”

About RNF MotoGP Team

A new beginning, a collaboration that goes beyond racing. The RNF MotoGP Team will debut in the premier class of the 2023 FIM MotoGP World Championship grid as the first-ever satellite team for Aprilia showcasing Portuguese MotoGP rider and 5-times race winner Miguel Oliveira with promising Spanish youngster and 2021 Moto2 Vice World Champion, Raul Fernandez.

The addition of CryptoDATA to the RNF MotoGP Team brings sustainability on and off track, as it sets the tone for further developing and improving performance in the upcoming season. The team will collaborate on two missions for the team with CryptoDATA spearheading the business side while RNF MotoGP Team focuses on the sports itself.

Our shared passion for performance, innovations and technology will bring a fresh and unique value to the world of motorsports.

About CryptoDATA Tech

CryptoDATA Tech is a global ambassador for promoting the importance of data security and digital privacy worldwide. The company has pioneered the development of services and products based on blockchain technology that enables private and secure communication, satisfying the requirements of its collaborators as well as tech users worldwide. Wispr, one of its major products, is an online messaging app that allows motorsport fans to exchange messages without constraints from anywhere in the world, thereby fueling the passion and determination of the motorsport community.

Contact details:
Cosmin Bidileci
Email: cosmin.bidileci@cryptodata.com
Phone: +40750803241

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2edbe83b-3def-4c0b-9b14-5bc24d38858e

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 1000755737

Zoomtopia 2022: New Innovations to Power Modern Work Experiences

  • Zoom Email and Calendar (beta) integrated into comprehensive Zoom communications platform
  • Zoom Spots will provide persistent, virtual co-working spaces to drive employee connection and collaboration
  • New innovations also include conversational AI features in Contact Center, additional benefits for developers, and more
  • Zoomtopia offered for the first time as hybrid experience powered by Zoom Events

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) kicked off Zoomtopia 2022, the company’s annual event to unveil new innovations to power modern work experiences and celebrate the future of communication and collaboration. For the first time ever, Zoomtopia 2022 is a hybrid experience powered by Zoom Events, Zoom’s all-in-one, virtual event management solution.

“As global organizations are adapting to how, when, and where work happens, it’s crucial that human connection remains a top priority to drive business strategies forward,” said Eric S. Yuan, CEO at Zoom. “Zoom is purpose-built to make all kinds of connections possible, effective, and meaningful. Our team has built and launched more than 1,500 features and enhancements on the Zoom platform this year, advancing the way people connect with each other, their organization, and their customers—ultimately, opening the doors wide for creativity and collaboration.”

“There has never been more uncertainty surrounding the future of work than there is today. Work from anywhere, hybrid offices and other trends have created a complex set of questions that business and IT leaders need to address. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain and that is collaboration tools will be critical in keeping workers connected,” said Zeus Kerravala, principal analyst at ZK Research. “Zoom has rapidly evolved from being a niche meetings company to a broad collaboration platform that delivers unparalleled employee and customer experience, and helps organizations address the current and future needs of work.”

“Our team connects and collaborates on Zoom, allowing us to seamlessly work together no matter where we are located—so that we can continue delivering world-class content from our iconic brands like HBO, Warner Bros., CNN, and Food Network and beloved characters like Batman, Superman, Looney Tunes, and Harry Potter,” said Dave Duvall, CIO – Technology & Operations, Warner Bros. Discovery. “We’ve been able to evolve with Zoom, particularly beyond meetings, with products like Zoom Phone, Zoom Rooms, and Zoom Team Chat. The whole platform has really expanded our capabilities to collaborate and stay connected within the organization.”

Zoom Platform Innovations Announced at Zoomtopia
To further advance the next era of communications, Zoom unveiled several new offerings to empower businesses and individuals alike.

Some of the latest announcements include:

  • Zoom Mail and Calendar (beta): With the Zoom Mail and Calendar Clients, users no longer need to leave the Zoom platform to access their email and calendar. Popular email and calendar services will be integrated directly into Zoom, meaning users can quickly access their communications and scheduling, and get their work done more efficiently. For businesses who may not have dedicated IT services but are focused on privacy and security, Zoom also rolled out Zoom-hosted email and calendar service options, also directly integrated with the Zoom platform. Zoom Mail Service is end-to-end encrypted for emails sent directly between active Zoom Mail Service users. Zoom Mail and Calendar Clients and Zoom Mail and Calendar Services will launch in beta.
  • Zoom Spots: Welcome to Zoom’s virtual co-working space! Coming in early 2023, Zoom Spots is a video-enabled persistent space, integrated within the Zoom platform, to help foster inclusive discussions, keep colleagues connected, and bring the fluid interactions of in-person work to distributed, hybrid teams throughout their day.
  • Zoom Virtual Agent: Zoom Virtual Agent is an intelligent conversational AI and chatbot solution that uses natural language processing and machine learning to understand and quickly resolve issues for customers. Zoom Virtual Agent works around-the-clock on multiple support channels to deliver fast, personalized customer experiences, reduce call volumes to human agents, and drive significant operational efficiencies for businesses. Zoom Virtual Agent, available in early 2023, can be fully integrated with Zoom Contact Center and will also be offered as a standalone chatbot solution.
  • Continuous Collaboration across Zoom One: Connected workstreams across Zoom One, the all-in-one communication and collaboration offering that brings together Team Chat, Phone, Whiteboard, Meetings, and more, are enabling individuals and teams to do their best work. Among these new capabilities is the integration between Team Chat and In-Meeting Chat, creating an always-on functionality so users can flow between Team Chat and Meetings to reduce silos, keep projects moving, and continue the conversation after meetings.
  • Zoom IQ Virtual Coach: Coming soon as part of Zoom IQ for Sales, Zoom IQ Virtual Coach simulates a variety of selling situations to give sellers a practice environment to hone their pitch, obtain feedback, and receive real-time content tips during calls with prospects.

Learn more about these innovations and other new hybrid work features.

Build to Connect and Extend the Value of Zoom
Developers have the ability to use Zoom APIs, SDKs, and tools and resources to build apps and integrations with Zoom or use Zoom’s core technology to power innovative video-based solutions for any use case.

Developers can do more on Zoom with:

  • Zoom Developer Platform enhancements: It will soon be easier for developers to provision and manage apps that work with Zoom by enabling admin-authorized installed apps. This will allow Zoom account admins to pre-install apps for an organization at the account, group, or user level. Additionally, developers will soon be able to monetize their apps on the Zoom App Marketplace.
  • Extended availability with Zoom Apps: Zoom Apps, in-product apps seamlessly integrated into the Zoom Meeting and Webinar experience, is expanding across the platform to Team Chat, Zoom Rooms, and more, so developers can plug apps into all their workflows. Now, developers can build their integration once and extend it across the entire Zoom product line. Additionally, developers will benefit from increased distribution of their Zoom Apps with the upcoming release of Essential Apps. Essential Apps bundle Zoom Meetings paid plans and Zoom Apps with select app developers, servicing the needs of managing and growing a business, while helping to minimize manual drudgery.

Hear more about how developers can extend the power of Zoom with new updates to the Zoom Developer Platform and Zoom Apps at Developer Summit at Zoomtopia.

Tune In LIVE
Zoomtopia is a two-day hybrid experience hosted on the Zoom Events platform, featuring thought-provoking speakers, business leaders and celebrity appearances, and includes many opportunities to network, collaborate, and learn. Tune in live to catch all the exciting content.

About Zoom
Zoom is for you. Zoom is a space where you can connect to others, share ideas, make plans, and build toward a future limited only by your imagination. Our frictionless communications platform is the only one that started with video as its foundation, and we have set the standard for innovation ever since. That is why we are an intuitive, scalable, and secure choice for large enterprises, small businesses, and individuals alike. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Visit zoom.com and follow @zoom.

Zoom Public Relations
Candace Dean
Corporate PR Lead
press@zoom.us

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8692032

Just In Time For The Holidays Crurated Announces More Fractional Barrel Auctions Backed by NFT Technology With Winemakers Across France and Italy

For gift giving, collecting, or every day enjoyment new calendar features some of Europe’s finest producers and covers the remainder of 2022

Crurated Barrels November and December Calendar

Just In Time For The Holidays Crurated Announces More Fractional Barrel Auctions Backed by NFT Technology With Winemakers Across France and Italy. For gift giving, collecting, or every day enjoyment new calendar features some of Europe’s finest producers and covers the remainder of 2022

LONDON, Nov. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  With the holiday and gift giving season right around the corner, Crurated, a blockchain and member-based wine community, has released a new barrel auction calendar for the remainder of 2022. The offering features some of the finest winemakers from France and Italy and extends the fractional barrel sales after a successful first round of auctions. The recently announced program allows Crurated members to purchase fractions of barrels that are certified through blockchain and NFT technology.

The offering also gives buyers the ability to customize bottle formats and labels for the gift recipient or themselves. Many of the producers on the platform rarely or never make larger format bottles even though collectors and buyers often ask for them. Fractional barrels now allow producers to determine the exact number and sizes of bottles that are needed. In many cases, the only way to have larger formats for the wines being auctioned is exclusively through Crurated.

The next round of fractional barrel auctions include:

  • Domaine Gerorges Mugneret-Gibourg — November 7-13
    • Vosne-Romanée “La Colombière” 2021
    • Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru “Les Feusselottes” Cuvée Augustin 2021
    • Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2021
  • Domaine Pierre Girardin — November 14-20
    • Échezeaux Grand Cru 2021
    • Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru 2021
    • Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru 2021
    • Richebourg Grand Cru 2021
  • Montevertine — November 21-27
    • Le Pergole Torte 2020
  • Domaine Y. Clerget — December 5-11
    • Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2021
    • Volnay 1er Cru Clos du Verseuil 2021
    • Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens 2021
  • Domaine Hubert Lignier — December 12-18
    • Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Bio 2021
    • Morey Saint-Denis 1er Cru Vieilles Vignes Bio 2021
    • Morey-Saint-Denis Trilogie Bio 2021
    • Bourgogne Pinot Noir Grand Chaliot 2021
  • Domaine Bruno Colin — December 19-25
    • Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2021

“When we launched barrel sales, we knew what we were offering our members was unique. Little did we know that barrels would sell out so quickly and in some cases within 24 hours,” said Alfonso de Gaetano, founder of Crurated. “Our team is pleased to be announcing a new slate of auctions with some of Europe’s most sought-after wines and just in time for the holidays.”

About Crurated
Launched in 2021 with an emphasis on France and Italy, Crurated is a membership-based wine community designed to connect connoisseurs directly with world-class producers. A team of specialists provides personalized services and authentic experiences, while Crurated’s seamless logistics service guarantees quality and provenance thanks to secure wine cellar storage and innovative blockchain technology. For more on Crurated, visit crurated.com.

Michael Volpatt
michael@larkinvolpatt.com
415 994 8864

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ee03a3c2-35fd-4334-9adb-d2f8c7c2a7e9

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c848d052-fe03-4cdb-becd-c00e6a4cdb57


GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 8691599

Hitachi Energy and Equinor sign a strategic collaboration agreement to accelerate the energy transition

The agreement extends across Hitachi Energy’s complete portfolio of power grid solutions for a sustainable low-carbon energy system

Zurich, Switzerland, Nov. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hitachi Energy, a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all, today announced it has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with Equinor, one of the world’s largest energy companies, to collaborate within electrification, renewable power generation and low-carbon initiatives worldwide.

The agreement underlines both companies’ commitment to accelerate the energy transition and advance a more sustainable, flexible and secure energy system. It builds on the two companies’ long and successful collaboration over many decades. During that time, Hitachi Energy has provided Equinor with power grid solutions and pioneering technologies on several projects, such as Dogger Bank A, B and C, the world’s largest offshore wind farm on completion, and Troll A, the world’s first HVDC power-from-shore connection.

Initial areas of focus for the collaboration include developing standardized base designs to be applied for high-voltage direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) transmission systems to connect offshore wind farms and Equinor production facilities to mainland power grids.

“We are delighted to deepen our longstanding relationship with one of the world’s leading energy companies and to help Equinor achieve its ambition of becoming net zero by mid-century,” said Niklas Persson, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy’s Grid Integration business. “Together we make a strong team that will support the society to reach the goal of the Paris Agreement and create a sustainable energy future for all.”

“Hitachi Energy has been a reliable supplier to Equinor for many years. This strategic collaboration agreement is a signal of joint ambitions to increase our competitiveness in the ongoing energy transition. Standardization of technical solutions will be a key to succeed, and we look forward to improving together with Hitachi Energy,” said Geir Tungesvik, Executive Vice President for Projects, Drilling and Procurement at Equinor.

The scope of the agreement covers the complete spectrum of Hitachi Energy’s portfolio of power grid technologies and solutions. It includes IdentiQTM, Hitachi Energy’s digital twin for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and power quality solutions, which provides significant benefits throughout the assets’ plan, build, operate and maintain life cycle; Grid-eXpandTM modular and prefabricated offshore and onshore grid connections that make it faster, simpler and more efficient to connect facilities to the grid; OceaniQTM solutions such as transformers and high-voltage products that can operate flawlessly on land, offshore and below the sea surface; and grid automation solutions that keep onshore and offshore electrical assets operating reliably, safely and securely.

About Hitachi Energy Ltd.

Hitachi Energy is a global technology leader that is advancing a sustainable energy future for all. We serve customers in the utility, industry and infrastructure sectors with innovative solutions and services across the value chain. Together with customers and partners, we pioneer technologies and enable the digital transformation required to accelerate the energy transition towards a carbon-neutral future. We are advancing the world’s energy system to become more sustainable, flexible and secure whilst balancing social, environmental and economic value. Hitachi Energy has a proven track record and unparalleled installed base in more than 140 countries. Headquartered in Switzerland, we employ around 40,000 people in 90 countries and generate business volumes of approximately $10 billion USD.

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About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society with data and technology. We will solve customers’ and society’s challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, under the business structure of Digital Systems & Services, Green Energy & Mobility, Connective Industries and Automotive Systems. Driven by green, digital, and innovation, we aim for growth through collaboration with our customers. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2021 (ended March 31, 2022) totaled 10,264.6 billion yen ($84,136 million USD), with 853 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 370,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.com.

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Jocelyn Chang
Hitachi Energy Ltd.
+41793847775
jocelyn.chang@hitachienergy.com

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