SBC Medical Initiates Development of a DNA Methylation Test to Estimate Biological Age

 IRVINE, Calif. - 

Leveraging the Waqoo Group’s research and technology ecosystem to establish a new personal baseline for proactive health and longevity

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated (Nasdaq: SBC) (“The Company” or “SBC Medical”), a Medical Services Organization (MSO) providing management support across a wide range of healthcare fields, today announced that it has commenced in-house development of a test designed to estimate an individual’s biological age using DNA methylation analysis.

Development will be led by the Company’s AI and longevity-focused subsidiary, SBC AI Longevity Innovation, Inc. The initiative will leverage the regenerative medicine research and technology base established by Waqoo, Inc. (TOKYO: 4937), a consolidated subsidiary of SBC Medical, and its subsidiary Cell Pro Japan Co., Ltd. (together, the “Waqoo Group”). The test aims to provide insight into an individual’s physical condition that chronological age alone cannot capture, offering a personal baseline for data-driven wellness and lifestyle adjustments.

The Global Shift: From Lifespan to Healthspan

Modern healthcare is undergoing a paradigm shift from extending lifespan (years lived) to optimizing healthspan (years lived in good health). Global capital and scientific research are rapidly converging on the longevity sector, a key field for SBC Medical’s expansion.

Market Growth: The global longevity market is projected to grow from approximately $800 billion in 2025 to approximately $2 trillion by 20351.

The Longevity Imperative: As one of the world’s oldest populations, Japan is well positioned to lead the development of accessible healthspan solutions.

Bridging Molecular Research with Clinical Expertise

While public interest in proactive wellness continues to grow, objective and repeatable ways to track the body’s internal condition over time remain limited. SBC Medical aims to address this gap by bridging science with seasoned clinical execution.

Scientific Base: Integrating the cellular and molecular research competencies built by the Waqoo Group through its regenerative medicine operations.

Clinical Scale: Leveraging SBC Medical’s extensive clinic operations infrastructure and customer experience know-how derived from its core MSO operations.

Why DNA Methylation?

Unlike an individual’s genetic code, epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation can change with environment, diet, stress, and lifestyle. This makes DNA methylation a promising marker to track over time, helping individuals see the real-world impact of lifestyle changes.

Scientific understanding of epigenetic clocks has advanced since the first landmark methodology was published in 20132. Notably, in 2025, researchers demonstrated a method to estimate the ages of 11 distinct organs and physiological systems from a single blood draw3.

Strategic Development Focus

Building on these research advances, SBC Medical’s development roadmap centers on three core pillars:

Organ-Specific Mapping: Assessing biological age by organ system to identify where in the body aging-related changes are progressing.

Non-Invasive Modalities: Researching highly accessible, consumer-friendly measurement methods that do not require blood draws.

Japan-Specific Data: Building a robust evaluation framework based on data from Japanese cohorts.

A New Standard for Personal Health

Rather than delivering a static, isolated metric, the test is designed to serve as a dynamic “personal baseline.” By enabling individuals to measure their biological age before and after implementing lifestyle changes, SBC Medical aims to establish a continuous feedback loop that visualizes changes in the body, supporting long-term health literacy and engagement.

1 Report Ocean, “Global, US & Japan Longevity Market” (published March 2026)

2 Horvath S. DNA methylation age of human tissues and cell types. Genome Biology. 2013;14:R115.

3 Sehgal R, et al. Systems Age: a single blood methylation test to quantify aging heterogeneity across 11 physiological systems. Nature Aging. 2025;5:1880–1896.

 

Note: The information in this release is based on current plans and is subject to change.

About SBC AI Longevity Innovation, Inc.

Location: Shinjuku Island Tower 12F, 6-5-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Representative Director and President: Yuya Yoshida

Business: Planning and development of products and services in the AI and longevity fields; provision of AI solutions and operational support for medical institutions

Website: https://sbc-ai-longevity.com/

About Waqoo, Inc.

Location: 2-14-1 Kamiuma, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Representative Director and President: Bumpei Samata

Listing: Tokyo Stock Exchange Growth Market (Securities Code: 4937)

Business: Medical support business; D2C and subscription business

Website: https://en.waqoo.jp/

About Cell Pro Japan Co., Ltd.

Location: Shonan iPark, 2-26-1 Muraoka-Higashi, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan

Representative Director and President: Bumpei Samata

Business: Regenerative medicine-related business

Website: https://cellprojapan.com/

About SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated

SBC Medical is a Medical Services Organization providing management support across a wide range of healthcare fields, including advanced aesthetic healthcare, dermatology, orthopedics, fertility treatment, gynecology, dentistry, hair loss treatment (AGA), and ophthalmology. The Company manages a diverse portfolio of clinic brands and is actively expanding its global presence, particularly in the United States and Asia, through both direct operations and medical tourism initiatives. In September 2024, the Company was listed on Nasdaq, and in June 2025, it was selected for inclusion in the Russell 3000® Index, a broad benchmark of the U.S. equity market. Guided by its Group Purpose “Contributing to the well-being of people around the world through medical innovation,” SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated continues to provide safe, trusted, and high-quality medical services while further strengthening its international reputation for quality and trust in medical care.

For more information, visit https://sbc-holdings.com

For more insights and updates from SBC Medical, follow us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts or statements of current conditions, but instead represent only the Company’s beliefs regarding future events and performance, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company’s control. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to, among other things, the Company’s plans and strategies for service expansion; growth in revenue and earnings; and business prospects. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “contemplates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projected,” “predicts,” “potential,” “targets” or “hopes” or the negative of these or similar terms. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which are current only as of the date of this release and are subject to various risks, uncertainties, assumptions, or changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict or quantify. The forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are not guarantees of future performance. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them; such factors include, among other things, changes in global, regional, or local economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory conditions, and those listed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

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Hikaru Fukui / Head of IR Department; E-mail: ir@sbc-holdings.com

Akiko Wakiyama / Chief Public Relations Officer; E-mail: pr@sbc.or.jp

Galderma Delivers Net Sales of 4.765 B USD in the First Nine Months, Up 25.1% at Constant Currency Year-on-Year, and Raises Full-Year Net Sales Guidance

 ZUG, Switzerland - 

Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Galderma Group AG (SIX:GALD), the pure-play dermatology category leader, today announced its sales performance for the first nine months of 2026.

Record net sales of 4.765 billion USD for the first nine months of 2026, representing 25.1% year-on-year growth at constant currency1, predominantly driven by volume and complemented by favorable mix.

Broad-based double-digit growth across geographies and product categories, reflecting strong execution of Galderma’s proven integrated dermatology strategy, with stand-out performance in Therapeutic Dermatology, across both Nemluvio and the mature portfolio, as well as in Dermatological Skincare and Neuromodulators.

Continued market outperformance across all three product categories, with net sales growth year-on-year at constant currency of 13.2% in Injectable Aesthetics, 16.2% in Dermatological Skincare, and 64.4% in Therapeutic Dermatology (with Nemluvio net sales of 735 million USD).

Strengthening Galderma’s dermatology platform, with the previously announced agreement to acquire ZO® Skin Health, a leading brand in the fast-growing physician-dispensed skincare category. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026 or early 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

Further evolution as a listed company, with Galderma’s inclusion in the Swiss Market Index (SMI) and an upgraded credit rating.

Raising 2026 full-year net sales guidance to 22.5-23.5% growth year-on-year at constant currency (previously 19-21%), and confirming Core EBITDA margin2 of approximately 26% at constant currency.

 

“Our strong performance in the first nine months of 2026 underscores the sustained momentum across our business and the strength of our integrated dermatology strategy. Robust demand for our differentiated, premium portfolio continues to drive growth, while we advance innovation and take decisive steps to strengthen our long-term growth prospects, including our agreement to acquire ZO Skin Health. Building on this momentum and our confidence in the business, we are raising our full-year net sales guidance.”

 

FLEMMING ØRNSKOV, M.D., MPH

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

GALDERMA

 

Commercial performance

For the first nine months of 2026, Galderma achieved record net sales of 4,765 million USD, with year-on-year growth of 25.1% at constant currency. Through focused execution of its proven, growth-driven integrated dermatology strategy, Galderma continued to deliver double-digit net sales growth in most of its top 10 markets.

Growth was broad-based across the existing portfolio, complemented by innovation and further increasing penetration in fast-growing, attractive markets. Performance was particularly strong in Therapeutic Dermatology, across both Nemluvio and the mature portfolio, as well as in Dermatological Skincare and Neuromodulators. Growth continued to be predominantly driven by volume, complemented by favorable mix.

Net sales growth of 26.0% year-on-year at constant currency in the third quarter was supported by continued market outperformance across all product categories and market conditions that remained more resilient than expected. Galderma continued to benefit from sustained consumer demand and preference, particularly through its premium positions in Injectable Aesthetics and Dermatological Skincare.

Injectable Aesthetics

Injectable Aesthetics net sales for the first nine months were 2,174 million USD, with year-on-year growth of 13.2% at constant currency.

Neuromodulators delivered net sales of 1,259 million USD, up 16.9% year-on-year at constant currency. Galderma continued to gain market share in both the U.S. and International markets. With the Group’s proven Neuromodulator portfolio strategy, Dysport® continued to grow in all top markets while the launch of Relfydess™ continued to build momentum in Europe and Asia Pacific. In addition to the continued strong momentum globally for Neuromodulators, growth in the third quarter was supported by the unwinding of the U.S. phasing effects from the second quarter.

Galderma continued to make progress in expanding Relfydess’ global regulatory footprint, with approvals now secured in 37 markets and regulatory reviews ongoing in additional territories. In the U.S., Galderma is targeting the first quarter of 2027 to resubmit the Biologics License Application (BLA) for RelabotulinumtoxinA to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), following receipt of a Complete Response Letter (CRL) in June 2026, subject to further regulatory feedback.

On September 29, 2026, Galderma filed confidential arbitration proceedings with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the American Arbitration Association (AAA) with respect to certain rights and obligations between Galderma and Ipsen, including Galderma's exclusive rights in the aesthetics field and other matters relating to Ipsen’s Long-Acting NeuroToxin clinical program (LANTIC). These filings do not concern Dysport/Azzalure®, Alluzience®, and Relfydess.

Fillers & Biostimulators achieved net sales of 914 million USD, up 8.5% year-on-year at constant currency, despite continued softness in the Fillers market. Galderma continued to gain share in both the U.S. and International markets in Fillers & Biostimulators, with continued double-digit growth for Sculptra® in both geographies. The portfolio benefited from further expansion, supported by leadership in science and education, and strong commercial execution. As anticipated, third quarter growth was impacted by a high base in the second half of the previous year.

Dermatological Skincare

Dermatological Skincare net sales for the first nine months were 1,244 million USD, with year-on-year growth of 16.2% at constant currency.

Momentum remained strong across both Dermatological Skincare flagship brands, Cetaphil® and Alastin®. Growth was positive in both the U.S. and International markets, with e-commerce remaining the fastest growing channel globally. Cetaphil growth was driven particularly by fast-growing International markets and especially Asia. Alastin delivered double-digit growth in both geographies, with continued penetration in the U.S. and geographic expansion.

Galderma continued to outperform the market, driven by disciplined execution against strong fundamentals: strong core brand equity through differentiated science and portfolio synergies, focus on the core portfolio while continuing to invest in innovation, and locally relevant activation through campaigns that build awareness of its brands. Key innovations included the U.S. expansion of Cetaphil’s Nourishing line into body care and the launch of Alastin’s Restorative Eye Complex with TriHex+™ technology.

Therapeutic Dermatology

Therapeutic Dermatology net sales for the first nine months were 1,347 million USD, up 64.4% year-on-year at constant currency.

Nemluvio net sales for the first nine months were 735 million USD. The strong trajectory reflects continued demand growth, particularly among treatment-naïve patients and disciplined commercial execution.

The U.S. represents the vast majority of Nemluvio sales, with a greater contribution from atopic dermatitis than prurigo nodularis. In the U.S., Nemluvio paid new patient starts (NBRx)3 from the first week of September to the second week of October 2026 trended at approximately 45% market share in prurigo nodularis and approximately 9% in atopic dermatitis. For the same period, Nemluvio’s total paid prescription share (TRx)3 in the U.S. trended at approximately 37% in prurigo nodularis and approximately 5% in atopic dermatitis. Nemluvio in International markets also continued to perform ahead of expectations and to progress with its expansion, with approvals for both moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis in more than 40 countries as well as further regulatory reviews ongoing.

The mature Therapeutic Dermatology portfolio continued to show positive growth, with impact from generic entries slower-than-expected. Differin® growth was also strong globally and especially in the U.S., with continued uptake from the recent Differin Epiduo® Acne Gel Prescription-to-OTC (over-the-counter) switch in acne care.

Science-led innovation in dermatology

Galderma continued to advance its science-led innovation and medical education agenda.

In Injectable Aesthetics, Galderma strengthened the clinical evidence of its portfolio with new positive topline data for Restylane® Volyme™ for temple hollowing in support of plans to expand presence in China, and interim data for an investigator-initiated trial demonstrating that Restylane Skinboosters™ and Sculptra drove progressive improvements in hydration, skin barrier function, and skin quality in menopausal women.

In Dermatological Skincare, Galderma continued to take steps to expand its portfolio, both organically through differentiated innovation and externally through the previously announced agreement to acquire ZO Skin Health, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

In Therapeutic Dermatology, new three-year ARCADIA long-term extension data reinforced Nemluvio's durable efficacy and favorable tolerability profile in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Clinically meaningful improvements in eczema severity, near-complete skin clearance, itch, and quality of life at Week 152 were presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress 2026 and at the Fall Clinical Dermatology 2026.

Galderma also continued to broaden the clinical development program for nemolizumab across additional patient populations and potential indications. This includes progressing the submission preparation of nemolizumab in children aged 2 to 11 with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in the U.S., noting new phase II data presented at The Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA) Annual Conference. Galderma also initiated a study in infants and young children aged 6 months to under 2 years with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. Recruitment was also completed in the phase II study investigating the efficacy and safety of nemolizumab in treating patients living with Chronic Pruritus of Unknown Origin (CPUO) with topline results expected in the first quarter of 2027.

ZO Skin Health acquisition

ZO Skin Health was founded in 2007 by world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi and, in 2020, Blackstone acquired a majority stake. Today, ZO Skin Health represents a highly strategic and financially attractive opportunity for Galderma. With a leading science-based, physician-endorsed portfolio and global presence complementary to Alastin’s, ZO Skin Health would enable Galderma to expand its Dermatological Skincare offering in this attractive, fast-growing segment. Galderma’s proven integrated dermatology platform provides complementarity, synergies, and scale with the ambition to reignite ZO Skin Health’s growth, creating an additional long-term growth driver for Galderma while maintaining financial discipline.

The acquisition of ZO Skin Health, for an enterprise value of 1.5 billion USD in an all-cash transaction, subject to customary adjustments, will be funded through a combination of existing cash reserves and bank financing. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026 or early 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Consistent with its proven value creation focus, Galderma plans to increase commercial investment during the first year of ownership to strengthen the foundation for renewed growth beginning in the second year following closing. The transaction is expected to be slightly dilutive to the Group’s Core EBITDA margin in 2027 and to achieve a margin broadly comparable with the Group’s from 2028 onwards. The acquisition is expected to be Core EPS neutral in the first full year following closing and to be in line with Galderma’s commitment to a solid investment grade credit rating. Integration and one-time costs of approximately 50-60 million USD are expected in total over the first two years of the acquisition.

Outlook

Galderma entered the fourth quarter with strong momentum, supported by its robust financial profile and growing position as a public company. This was reflected during the third quarter by its inclusion in the Swiss Market Index (SMI) on September 21, 2026, and an upgrade by S&P Global Ratings to BBB+, with the rating confirmed following the announced acquisition of ZO Skin Health. Galderma continues to capitalize on growth opportunities across its existing portfolio, complemented by innovation and further increasing penetration in fast-growing, attractive markets.

With a stronger-than-anticipated trajectory in the first nine months, especially in Therapeutic Dermatology, across both Nemluvio and the mature portfolio, as well as in Dermatological Skincare and Neuromodulators, Galderma is raising its full-year 2026 net sales growth guidance to 22.5-23.5% at constant currency, from 19-21% previously; Fillers and Biostimulators full-year growth is expected to be broadly in line with year-to-date growth at constant currency. Galderma also confirms its Core EBITDA margin guidance of approximately 26% at constant currency, as it continues investing behind growth opportunities.

Guidance excludes the potential effects of the ZO Skin Health acquisition, expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026 or early 2027. There is also no impact expected in 2026 from the recently enacted ‘Section 232’ tariffs on Nemluvio imported into the U.S. from the EU. While guidance is at constant currency, based on spot rates at the end of September 2026, foreign exchange is expected to have a positive impact on net sales and Core EBITDA absolutes. The evolution of Galderma’s exposure to key foreign exchange currency pairs is available in the Appendix.

Webcast details

Galderma will host a trading update call today at 15:30 CET to discuss nine-month results and respond to questions from financial analysts. Investors and the public may access the webcast by registering on the Galderma Investor Relations website at https://investors.galderma.com/events-presentations, a recording will also be made available after the event.

About Galderma

Galderma (SIX: GALD) is the pure-play dermatology category leader, present in approximately 90 countries. We deliver an innovative, science-based portfolio of premium flagship brands and services that span the full spectrum of the fast-growing dermatology market through Injectable Aesthetics, Dermatological Skincare and Therapeutic Dermatology. Since our foundation in 1981, we have dedicated our focus and passion to the human body’s largest organ – the skin – meeting individual consumer and patient needs with superior outcomes in partnership with healthcare professionals. Because we understand that the skin we are in shapes our lives, we are advancing dermatology for every skin story. For more information: www.galderma.com.

Appendices

Unicharm Announces Full-Scale Operation of East African Subsidiary "SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA," Unveiling Direct Sales Strategy and 2030 Goals

 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Unicharm Corporation (TOKYO: 8113) announced the full-scale operation of its East African joint venture with Toyota Tsusho Corporation, "SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA LIMITED." To mark this milestone, Unicharm held a business presentation and inauguration ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 14, 2026. The event, attended by local distributors, business partners, and government officials, highlighted the company's strategic shift to a direct sales system and outlined its ambitious goals for 2030, aimed at strengthening its business foundation in the rapidly growing East African market.

Transition to Direct Sales and Strengthening Distribution

With the establishment of the new company, Unicharm will transition from its traditional wholesale system to a direct sales-led model managed by SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA. This shift will enable Unicharm to drive in-house marketing strategies and build a more robust distribution network. Working in close collaboration with local sales agents, the company aims to accelerate market penetration within Kenya and expand exports to neighboring countries. The subsidiary is the first overseas entity to bear the "SOFY" brand name, reflecting Unicharm's strong commitment to supporting the possibilities of women in East Africa.

Business Strategy and 2030 Goals

At the ceremony, Unicharm outlined its commitment to meeting local needs by offering products such as the premium "SOFY Deep Absorb," the high-quality yet affordable "SOFY Long Lasting" produced through local outsourcing, and the highly accessible "SOFY Long Lasting Single Sachet." Furthermore, the company announced its four basic policies to drive future growth: expanding safe and affordable options to eliminate Period Poverty (Portfolio & Access), expanding networks to deliver proper hygiene knowledge and products (Distribution & Reach), investing in local female talent and career support (Talent Investment), and building partnerships with communities and the government (Partnership & Cohesion). Through these initiatives, Unicharm aims to achieve 1.5 billion Kenyan Shillings (KSH) in net sales by 2030 and deliver its products to 2 million women across the East African region.

(Related sites)

News Release: https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/company/news/2026/1015-03.html

Unicharm Corporation Website: https://www.unicharm.co.jp/en/home.html

Toyota Tsusho Corporation Website: https://www.toyota-tsusho.com/english/

SOFY UNICHARM EAST AFRICA LIMITED Website: https://www.sofy-africa.com/en/home.html

"SOFY" Brand Website (Africa): https://www.sofy-africa.com/en/sofy/home.html

About Unicharm

Under the Corporate Brand Essence "Love Your Possibilities," Unicharm aims to realize a "Cohesive Society" where everyone can be independent and supportive. Operating in over 80 countries and regions worldwide, it provides innovative solutions for baby care, feminine care, wellness care, and pet care.

 

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For inquiries

Unicharm Corporation, Global Marketing Communication Division, Love Your Possibilities PR Department Email: brand-pr@unicharm.com

Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah inaugurates the first Ras Al Khaimah’s business consultancy in China, strengthening ties with Guangdong

 Guangzhou, Guangdong, China - Wednesday, 21. October 2026 AETOSWire Print 

HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, inaugurated the Emirate’s first business consultancy in China, marking a new chapter of cooperation and partnership.

Located in the industrial hub of Guangzhou, the consultancy will serve as a leading platform dedicated to strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s engagement with Chinese businesses, facilitating expanding cooperation across key sectors.

The inauguration builds on a relationship that stretches back centuries, when maritime trade connected Ras Al Khaimah with China through the exchange of goods, including porcelain and pearls. This shared history, together with more than four decades of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China, provides a strong foundation for continued cooperation.

HH Sheikh Saud said: “Our history and our experience have taught us that partners look beyond opportunity alone. They seek stability, transparency, governance and commitment. This is the environment we have built in Ras Al Khaimah.

“Today, we take a meaningful step forward in our partnership, inaugurating Ras Al Khaimah’s first business consultancy in China. By establishing this consultancy, we create a lasting home along our shared path. We connect our people, our cultures and our industries. In doing so, we are ensuring that our collaboration is no longer periodic, but continuous, and no longer transactional, but truly transformative.”

HH Sheikh Saud toured the new consultancy and witnessed a traditional Chinese lion dance and the distribution of customary red packets, which added a vibrant cultural dimension to the inauguration ceremony.

As part of the celebrations, the Ras Al Khaimah 2027 Calendar Sketches Competition was held, where almost 200 Guangzhou students aged 11 to 15 were asked to explore Ras Al Khaimah through art, drawing inspiration from the Emirate’s natural landscapes, mountains, beaches, heritage, culture and traditions. The 12 winning entries will feature in the official Ras Al Khaimah 2027 Calendar.

As part of his visit to Guangdong, HH Sheikh Saud also met Wang Xi, Member of the Standing Committee of Guangdong Provincial Committee, to discuss further strengthening relations between Ras Al Khaimah and the province and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors of mutual interest.

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Steven McCombe

Steven.Mccombe@rakmediaoffice.ae

Megaport Expands AWS Connectivity With AWS Interconnect to Simplify How Customers Connect Their Infrastructure

 BRISBANE, Australia - Thursday, 22. October 2026 AETOSWire  

As one of a select group of providers, Megaport adds AWS Interconnect to its complete suite of AWS connectivity options.

 

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Megaport Limited (ASX: MP1) (“Megaport”), a leading global automated infrastructure platform, today announced support for AWS Interconnect, a new managed connection model from Amazon Web Services (AWS) designed to simplify how businesses connect their infrastructure to AWS.

AWS Interconnect from Megaport gives enterprises and AI infrastructure providers an automated connectivity option as their requirements grow beyond traditional AWS Hosted Connections. MACsec encryption and four redundant links across two sites will be included as part of the service at general availability, with customers able to select connection speeds from 1 Gbps to 100 Gbps.

Customers can start an order for AWS Interconnect - last mile from either the Megaport Portal or AWS Management Console and complete it from the other. AWS and Megaport then automate the underlying network configuration, including VLANs, IP subnets, MTU, and BGP. This removes the need for customers to arrange the port, letter of authorization, and cross-connect associated with a dedicated connection — thus removing the complexity of building resilient paths to AWS.

“AWS Interconnect gives enterprises another way to scale their AWS connectivity without taking on more network infrastructure to operate themselves,” said Michael Reid, Chief Executive Officer of Megaport. “For Megaport customers, that connection also lands on the same platform they already use to reach other clouds, data centers, and services. They can increase capacity into AWS while connecting into a broader infrastructure environment.”

“AWS Interconnect - last mile is designed to make our high-capacity cloud connectivity even simpler to deploy and operate. Working with AWS Partners like Megaport gives customers more choice in how they connect their infrastructure to AWS, with automation, encryption, and resilience built into the service,” said Robert Kennedy, VP, Networking Services at AWS.

AWS Interconnect from Megaport public preview is now live and will be generally available at the end of 2026, initially supporting Ashburn and San Jose, two of our key interconnection regions. Visit our Docs Portal to get started, or contact our Sales team.

About Megaport

Deploying infrastructure should be fast and simple. By taking a software-defined approach, Megaport provides private compute, network, and storage — globally, securely, and on demand. Build and scale your infrastructure in just a few clicks with a global AI inference platform. Trusted by the world’s leading companies, Megaport partners with service providers, data centers, and systems integrators across 1,200+ enabled locations worldwide. The Megaport Network is ISO/IEC 27001 certified. Start building at megaport.com.

 

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Media Enquiries

Adam Hennessy, Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Megaport

Phone: +61 7 3088 7400

media@megaport.com

Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress Highlights Maritime Sector Integration and Opportunities for Trade and Investment Growth in the Kingdom

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - Thursday, 22. October 2026

The Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress highlighted Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting the continuity of trade flows and strengthening supply chain resilience as it opened at Jeddah Superdome, bringing together representatives of government entities, maritime transport and logistics leaders, and the business community.

The Congress takes place as rapid changes in trade and shipping prompt companies to reassess transport routes and operational and investment choices. It provides a platform for dialogue among stakeholders to explore opportunities for cooperation and strengthen integration between ports and maritime, land transport and logistics services, supporting operational efficiency and supply chain reliability.

In his opening address, His Excellency Eng. Fawaz Alsahli, President of the Transport General Authority in Saudi Arabia, emphasised that the Kingdom’s ambitions extend beyond developing ports and maritime services to building an integrated transport and logistics ecosystem that contributes to diversifying the national economy, expanding opportunities for investment and innovation, and strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a trusted partner in international trade.

Mohaned El Mahgoub, Vice President at Tahaluf, said: “Bringing the industry together in Jeddah at this moment matters more than ever. Businesses are making immediate decisions about routes, capacity and investment, and those decisions depend on strong relationships across the supply chain. The discussions at this year’s Congress show how Saudi Arabia’s maritime and logistics capabilities are helping companies respond to disruption and build confidence in the routes and services they rely on. The Kingdom’s strength lies in its ability to bring those capabilities together, adapt under pressure and keep trade moving.”

Eng. Essam Alammari, Deputy for Maritime at the Transport General Authority, highlighted the importance of developing maritime transport capabilities, improving operational efficiency and enhancing integration between ports, shipping services and logistics networks.

Faisal M. Higgi & Associates Co. Ltd also announced a new brand identity, FMH Marine Services, while continuing to operate under its registered legal identity. The new brand supports the company’s plans to develop ship agency, customs clearance, logistics, supply, procurement and related marine services in line with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.

Discussions extended to the role of ports and marinas in supporting tourism, services and maritime investment. Oriela Blake from Sela highlighted the importance of developing marina facilities and specialised marine services to attract luxury yachts and increase demand for provisioning, maintenance and tourism activities.

Ryanah Alghamdi, Deputy General Manager, Samaco, said: “Our ambition is to offer more than a marina. We want to support the customer’s broader marine journey, from boats and after-sales service to marina facilities, while contributing to the growth of the sector in Saudi Arabia.”

The Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress continues at Jeddah Superdome with sessions examining how to build an integrated national logistics ecosystem, improve operational efficiency and develop partnerships and investment that support the competitiveness of the Kingdom’s maritime sector.

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Bureau Veritas: Double Digit Total Revenue Growth in the Third Quarter of 2026

 Organic revenue growth sequential improvement;

2026 outlook confirmed

(BUSINESS WIRE) -- Bureau Veritas (BOURSE:BVI):

The execution of LEAP | 28 has transformed Bureau Veritas into a more focused, faster-growing and higher-performing multi-specialist company. Its Product Line-centric operating model combines the Company’s global scale and resilience with clear priorities, stronger accountability and deep specialist expertise. This creates a more repeatable growth model, enabling faster execution, stronger capabilities and higher conversion of growth into profitability.

Q3 2026 Key figures1

› New reporting structure effective July 1st, 2026, comprising four divisions: Industrials & Commodities, Buildings & Infrastructure, Business Assurance, and Product Testing & Services, excluding the planned for exit businesses of Oil & Petrochemicals and Coal Testing and Inspection, and “Government Services”;

› Revenue of EUR 1,569.7 million, up 10.1% year-on-year and up 6.2% organically;

• Positive scope effect of 1.8%, from accelerated bolt-on acquisitions (+2.7% contribution), net of disposals (-0.9%);

› Positive currency impact of 2.1%, mainly resulting from the dollar strengthening against the euro.

Q3 2026 Highlights

› Broad growth across most divisions and geographies; with strong organic growth from Buildings & Infrastructure at +7.9% and Product Testing & Services at +7.0%, robust growth for Industrials & Commodities at +5.1%, and moderate for Business Assurance at +3.2%;

› Three years of strong organic growth and a completion of c. 21% portfolio rotation support LEAP | 28 ambitions that were confirmed at the 2026 Capital Markets Day;

› Total revenue growth target at constant currency upgraded to a double-digit CAGR for 2027-2028;

› AI identified as a key lever for both growth and performance. Commitment for EUR 1 billion revenue ambition for AI-driven markets and services by 2030;

› Successful placement of EUR 700 million, A3-rated bond due in September 2034, with a 4.125% coupon, most debt maturities now extend beyond 2031 and are at fixed interest rates;

› A third of the EUR 200 million share buyback program announced at the end of February 2026 completed.

Confirmed 2026 Outlook

In a fast-changing global business environment, the Company confirms its full year 2026 guidance. This is building on a solid 9-month delivery, a growing pipeline, and a reshaped portfolio2. The full-year 2026 guidance is as follows:

› Mid-to-high single-digit organic revenue growth

› Adjusted operating margin improvement at constant exchange rates

› Strong cash flow generation

The Company is fully committed to its LEAP | 28 financial guidance, capitalizing on favorable market trends, and on the sustained execution of the strategy’s portfolio and performance programs.

Hinda Gharbi, Chief Executive Officer, commented:

“The third quarter of 2026 marks another quarter of solid execution, with organic revenue growth of 6.2% in a volatile geopolitical and macroeconomic environment. I would like to thank all our colleagues around the world for their contributions.

This performance confirms that the rotation of our portfolio positions us on growth markets. Additionally, the recently completed acquisitions expand our capabilities, further strengthening our market leadership position. Growth at constant currency was high single-digit, and with positive currency effects, total growth reached double-digits in the quarter.

At our Capital Markets Day in September, we confirmed our LEAP | 28 ambitions and outlined how we will amplify our execution over the next two years. We will continue our disciplined M&A to deliver on our upgraded total revenue growth target to a double-digit CAGR for 2027 and 2028. In parallel, we will continue to strengthen operational leverage and functional scalability, while completing our people programs.

AI is both a growth catalyst and a transformation lever for Bureau Veritas. Our ambition is to generate EUR 1 billion in revenue from AI-driven markets and services by 2030. We remain fully committed to delivering our 2026 outlook and our LEAP | 28 financial ambitions.”

Q3 2026 KEY FIGURES

The execution of LEAP | 28 is reshaping Bureau Veritas’ portfolio, accelerating its exposure to higher-growth markets and transforming its business mix. As a result, the Company’s organization has evolved, and its reporting structure is evolving accordingly. To better reflect this transformation and to provide the market with a clearer view of the growth algorithm, Bureau Veritas is moving from six to four reporting lines, aligning external reporting with its current organization.

The reporting is now around 4 Divisions :

› Industrials & Commodities;

› Buildings & Infrastructure;

› Business Assurance;

› Product Testing & Services.

› Total double digit revenue growth in the third quarter

Revenue in the third quarter of 2026 amounted to EUR 1,569.7 million, a 10.1% increase compared to the third quarter of 2025. The Company delivered organic growth of 6.2%, showing a slight sequential acceleration compared to 5.9% delivered in the second quarter of the year.

By business, and on an organic basis, the growth was led by Buildings & Infrastructure, up 7.9%, and Product Testing & Services up 7.0%, Industrials & Commodities up 5.1%, while moderate growth was achieved for Business Assurance, up 3.2%, compared to the third quarter of 2025.

Geographically, the performance was solid across the board:

› Europe (c. 34% of revenue, +2.6% organically) was supported by good momentum in the UK, Italy and France.

› Asia-Pacific (c. 30% of revenue, +8.6% organically) was driven by strong activity in China and South Asia.

› The Americas (c. 27% of revenue, +8.7% organically) delivered strong growth, supported by solid momentum in North America, notably for mission critical assets.

› Africa and the Middle East (c. 9% of revenue, +5.6% organically) demonstrated resilience in a fast-changing geopolitical environment.

The scope effect was positive at 1.8%, reflecting bolt-on acquisitions (contributing to +2.7%) finalized in the past few quarters and partially offset by the impact of divestments completed over the last twelve months (contributing to -0.9%).

Currency fluctuations had a positive impact of 2.1%, driven by the strengthening of the dollar against the euro, following two quarters of negative year-to-date currency effects.

› Solid financial position

As of September 30th, 2026, net financial debt was broadly unchanged from June 30, 2026. The Group had more than EUR 1.0 billion in available cash and cash equivalents and EUR 600 million in undrawn committed credit lines. Following the September refinancing, most debt maturities now extend beyond 2031 and are at fixed interest rates.

In September 2026, Bureau Veritas placed a EUR 700 million A3-rated bond due in 2034 with a 4.125% coupon to refinance maturities in September 2026 and January 2027. The transaction attracted strong investor demand.

2026 SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAM

In line with the commitment to continue to improve shareholder returns, on February 25, 2026, the Company announced a new EUR 200 million share buyback program, to be completed within the next twelve months.

In accordance with the terms of the share buyback program approved by the Annual General Meeting, the purchased shares will be used for any purpose authorized by the Company’s shareholders.

As of October 19, 2026, the Company had repurchased 2.5 million shares for a total amount of EUR 68 million.

2026 CAPITAL MARKETS DAY

On September 22, 2026, Bureau Veritas hosted its Capital Markets Day and confirmed its LEAP | 28 ambitions, building on three years of strong execution.

Since the launch of the strategy, the Company has delivered sustained organic growth and margin improvement while rotating approximately 21% of its portfolio. This transformation has supported a simpler, Product Line-centric multi-specialist operating model structured around four divisions and ten Product Lines.

For 2027-2028, Bureau Veritas intends to accelerate M&A, complete the global rollout of its performance and people programs, and further leverage digital and AI. The Company confirmed its 2028 financial ambitions and upgraded its total revenue growth target to a double-digit CAGR for 2027-2028, while narrowing its leverage range to 1.5x-2.0x net debt/EBITDA.

AI will also act as a growth catalyst and transformation lever, with a target of EUR 1 billion in revenue from AI-driven markets and services by 2030.

For more information, the press releases are available by clicking here.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP CHANGES

Effective October 1st 2026, Angelo Piccirillo is appointed Chief Legal Officer. He will lead the Company’s Legal function and Internal Audit, ensuring continued excellence in governance, compliance, and risk management. Angelo Piccirillo was previously Group General Counsel at Sodexo. He succeeds Béatrice Place-Faget, who left Bureau Veritas to pursue other interests.

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COMMITMENTS

Bureau Veritas obtained SBTi validation of its enhanced Scope 3 methodology and associated 2030 emissions reduction targets. The strengthened approach improves the visibility of emissions across the value chain, reinforces the robustness of the Group's climate reporting framework and further supports its decarbonization ambitions.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20261020711201/en/

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Contacts

ANALYST/INVESTOR CONTACTS

Laurent Brunelle

+33 (0) 7 79 52 69 21

laurent.brunelle@bureauveritas.com

Colin Verbrugghe

+33 (0) 6 80 53 26 72

colin.verbrugghe@bureauveritas.com

Romain Gorge

romain.gorge@bureauveritas.com

Inès Lagoutte

ines.lagoutte@bureauveritas.com

MEDIA CONTACTS

Karine Havas

+33 (0) 6 68 63 83 18

karine.havas@bureauveritas.com

Frédéric Vallois

+33 (0) 6 21 66 31 04

frederic.vallois@bureauveritas.com