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EDUCATION FINANCE LEADER DELIVERS RESOURCE IN RESPONSE TO ONGOING FAFSA® ISSUES

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AscentUP’s “Ultimate Guide to Paying for College” Provides Much Needed Solution

SAN DIEGO, June 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Ascent is committed to helping students plan, pay and succeed throughout their education and is proud to launch the “Ultimate Guide to Paying for College” through its partnership with AscentUP, a professional training and career readiness platform. A completely free resource AscentUP created for nonprofits, high schools, parents, and students, the interactive 10-minute guide offers an answer to this year’s adverse updates to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) application process.

The 2024–25 FAFSA form updates were intended to provide financial aid eligibility to more students through a streamlined application. Unfortunately, a three-month delay in the form’s access, coupled with debilitating errors and miscalculations, meant a 27 percent decrease in submissions compared to last year. Additionally, nearly 20 percent of FAFSA submissions to date need to be reprocessed due to student aid index calculation errors and incorrect tax data provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The impacts are so great that local governments have even declared this a “state of emergency” as seen most recently in West Virginia.

While many await their FAFSA fates, AscentUP’s “Guide” offers actionable tools to assist students and families in evaluating and making educated decisions around which college to attend and how to make it a financial reality. Through The Bright Futures™ Engine, students begin the course by learning how to select their ideal college based on criteria including costs, majors, faculty, location, and on-campus experience.

After understanding how to select their future college, students are guided through the options to make education affordable, including federal financial aid, scholarships, and employment. This includes an overview of how the FAFSA process is intended to work and what its results mean for families’ financial possibilities as well as where private loans can fill the gap between FAFSA and the actual cost associated with their selected college. Lastly, the Guide defines and educates students on common terms and strategies to pay off loans quickly and with confidence.

“As passionate arbiters of student success and ensuring loans result in positive outcomes, we are frustrated with the Department of Education’s lack of performance for college-bound students,” said Ken Ruggiero, co-founder and CEO of Ascent. “AscentUP’s ‘Ultimate Guide to Paying for College’ offers transparent and accessible tips and best practices to alleviate the stress students and families naturally face during their college application and admissions process. Our guide is even more crucial in the wake of this year’s appalling FAFSA errors.”

Because most higher education institutions require students to secure enrollment with a nonrefundable deposit by May 1, many still don’t know how much aid they will be eligible for, if at all. Consequently, approximately 700,000 students face an impossible decision surrounding college acceptance and the prospect of attending college at all. These blunders will further widen the education-to-employment gap that low income and first-generation students already experience. AscentUp and its Guide aims to help as many students as possible navigate the staggering repercussions created by this year’s FAFSA updates.

As a leader in outcomes-based lending and education finance, Ascent is committed to offering students the wrap-around support services and educational resources that are designed to help borrowers succeed and lead financially independent lives. Its investment in AscentUP and the “Ultimate Guide to Paying for College” advances its mission of setting students up for success, regardless of hardships or external forces.

To learn more about the “Ultimate Guide to Paying for College,” Ascent and its AscentUP program, visit ascentup.com/ultimate-guide-paying-for-college.

ABOUT ASCENT 
Ascent is a leading provider of innovative financial products and wrap-around student support services that enable more students to access education and achieve academic and economic success. Everything Ascent offers is designed by leading industry professionals and with advanced technology and innovation to increase every student’s ability to plan, pay, and succeed. Ascent’s rare Outcomes-based Loan provides funding to credit-invisible borrowers who generally do not benefit from traditional credit. Ascent products also include: Cosigned Loans, Solo Loans, Career Loans, Parent Loans, Graduate Loans, Access Loans, Enterprise Loans and Impact Loans. 

For more information, visit www.ascentfunding.com

ABOUT ASCENTUP: 
AscentUP is dedicated to bridging the education-to-employment gap and empowering students to achieve their full potential in the workforce. Through comprehensive training, coaching, and experiential learning opportunities, AscentUP aims to equip students with the skills and confidence needed for career success. For more information, visit AscentUP.com.

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SOURCE Ascent Funding

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ADX welcomes Morgan Stanley as the first international investment bank Remote Trading Member, expanding global access to Abu Dhabi’s capital markets

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ABU DHABI, UAE, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) Group today announced that Morgan Stanley, a leading investment bank and financial services company, has joined the ADX as its first international investment bank Remote Trading Member — enabling Morgan Stanley’s clients to access the ADX directly.

This milestone strengthens ADX’s global connectivity and supports growing international institutional demand for exposure to UAE markets. It also reinforces its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing exchanges by market capitalization, while highlighting the market’s continued progress in depth, liquidity, and inclusion in major global indices.

Remote membership enables Morgan Stanley to provide its clients with direct market access to the ADX, with trading conducted via the firm’s global trading platform. The ADX continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic ambitions, as a mechanism for a diversified, innovation-led, knowledge-based economy.

Morgan Stanley’s direct trading access to ADX reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s investment proposition and the continued institutionalization of UAE capital markets. Morgan Stanley’s membership will enhance execution quality, optimize order routing, and provide greater control across the end-to-end trade lifecycle, delivering an advanced trading experience for global investors.

The structure follows a proven international access model used by Morgan Stanley and is designed to meet growing client demand for efficient, transparent, and seamless access to ADX-listed opportunities.

Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) Group, said: “This marks a significant step in advancing our ambition to be a leading financial marketplace that drives opportunity and sustainable economic growth. This momentum is reflected in the strong foreign investor participation, with trading value exceeding 85 billion dirhams in the first quarter of 2026 up by 22% year on year. This performance underscores the growing depth and global relevance of our market, while reinforcing our commitment to expanding international access, strengthening cross-border connectivity, and building a world-class market infrastructure that attracts global capital, supports a diverse range of issuers and contributes to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic prosperity.”

Patrick Delivanis, Regional Co-Head of MENA at Morgan Stanley, said: “Becoming a Remote Trading Member of ADX reflects our focus on providing clients with efficient, seamless access to Abu Dhabi’s capital markets through our market–leading trading platform. We see continued momentum in the institutionalization and international participation of UAE markets, and we’re pleased to support that evolution by enabling international investors to access opportunities in MENA with direct connectivity to local markets, alongside greater transparency and control across the trading lifecycle.”

Morgan Stanley’s participation aligns with ADX’s strategy to strengthen international connectivity, with remote memberships selectively offered to global firms to attract high-quality cross-border liquidity. The announcement builds on the ADX’s expansion momentum: in 2025, foreign investment rose by nearly 14% and institutional trading increased by 10% year on year. Subject to final operational readiness, Morgan Stanley expects to begin trading as a remote member in the coming weeks.

About Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) was established on 15 November 2000 pursuant to Local Law No. (3) of 2000, which granted the exchange legal rights with independent financial and administrative status, as well as the necessary supervisory and executive powers necessary to carry out its functions. On 17 March 2020, the ADX was converted from a public entity into a Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC) in accordance with Law No. (8) of 2020.

The ADX Group, a market infrastructure group comprising the exchange (ADX) and its post-trade ecosystem, including its wholly owned subsidiaries AD Depository and AD Clear, was established. Through its integrated and globally aligned business structure, the ADX Group supports efficient, transparent, and resilient capital markets across trading, clearing, settlement, and custody.

The Group provides an efficient and regulated marketplace for the trading of securities, including equities issued by public joint-stock companies, bonds issued by governments and corporations, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and other financial instruments approved by the UAE Capital Market Authority.

The ADX is the second-largest exchange in the Arab region by market capitalization. Its strategy of delivering stable financial performance through diversified revenue streams is aligned with the UAE’s national development agenda, “Towards the Next 50”, which aims to build a sustainable, diversified, and high-value-added economy.

For more information, please contact:
Abdulrahman Saleh ALKhateeb
Manager of Corporate Communication
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)
Mobile: +971 (50) 668 9733
Email: ALKhateebA@adx.ae

 

 

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SOURCE Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

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Geotab integrates Polestar vehicles into its OEM telematics network

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Fleet operators across North America, Europe, and APAC can now access Polestar vehicle data directly in MyGeotab — no aftermarket hardware required.

LONDON, UK, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Geotab, a global leader in connected vehicle and asset management solutions, today announced the integration of Polestar vehicles into its OEM telematics network, giving commercial fleet operators seamless access to Polestar data within MyGeotab from day one — with no aftermarket hardware installation required. The integration is available globally across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, supporting all Polestar models.

Developed in collaboration with Geotab, among other telematics service providers, Polestar Fleet Telematics integrates directly into MyGeotab. The Geotab integration enables fleet managers to manage Polestar vehicles alongside all other makes and models on a single unified platform — without fitting additional devices.

Connected vehicle data where it matters most

Through Polestar Fleet Telematics, fleet operators gain near-real-time access to a comprehensive dataset — covering EV battery and charging status, location, tyre information, vehicle security, maintenance alerts, and climate data — flowing directly from Polestar’s connected vehicle architecture into MyGeotab, with no physical installation required.

This breadth of data enables fleet managers to move from reactive to proactive operations — scheduling maintenance before failures occur, optimising charge planning across depots, and maintaining duty-of-care oversight across the entire fleet.

Supporting Europe’s Mixed-Fleet Reality

OEM-embedded telematics removes the need for aftermarket device installation across mixed-manufacturer fleets, reducing logistical overhead and supporting compliance with works council and GDPR requirements — a critical consideration for European fleet operators.

“Polestar Fleet Telematics combines sustainability with intelligence, integrating seamlessly with Geotab to deliver these capabilities directly into the platforms fleet operators trust. Continuous data visibility enables more efficient and informed fleet operations, from day-to-day management to long-term planning. By leveraging Polestar vehicles’ embedded connectivity, fleet managers can make smarter, data-driven decisions — without adding hardware or complexity to their operations.” said Emma Knapp, Manager of Global Key Accounts at Polestar.

Polestar joins an OEM telematics network that already spans over 80% of leading global vehicle manufacturers by fleet market share, including BMW Group, Ford, Stellantis, Volkswagen Group, and Volvo Cars. For fleet operators already using MyGeotab, Polestar vehicles can be connected and deliver data without any additional hardware or installation.

“OEM-embedded telematics represents a change in how fleet data reaches the platform — and Polestar’s connected vehicle architecture makes this integration particularly well-suited for markets that are seriously considering transitioning to electric vehicles.” said Christoph Ludewig, Vice President OEM Global at Geotab. “Fleet operators managing mixed EV and internal combustion engine fleets no longer need separate tools or hardware for each vehicle type. Polestar data flows directly into MyGeotab alongside every other vehicle in the fleet — giving operators the consolidated visibility they need to drive efficiency, support duty of care, and manage their EV transition with confidence.”

Global Availability

The integration is available now across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, supporting all Polestar models. Fleet managers can activate the service via the Geotab Marketplace or by contacting their Geotab representative.

About Polestar

Polestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is the Swedish electric performance car brand with a focus on uncompromised design and innovation, and the ambition to accelerate the change towards a sustainable future. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, its cars are available in 28 markets globally across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

Polestar has four models in its line-up: Polestar 2, Polestar 3, Polestar 4, and Polestar 5. Planned models include the Polestar 7 compact SUV (to be introduced in 2028) and the Polestar 6 roadster. With its vehicles currently manufactured on two continents, North America and Asia, Polestar plans to diversify its manufacturing footprint further, with production of Polestar 7 planned in Europe.

Polestar has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and has set an ambitious roadmap to reach its climate targets: halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 per-vehicle-sold and become climate-neutral across its value chain by 2040. Polestar’s comprehensive sustainability strategy covers the four areas of Climate, Transparency, Circularity, and Inclusion.

About Geotab

Geotab is a global leader in connected vehicle and asset management solutions, with headquarters in Oakville, Ontario and Atlanta, Georgia. Our mission is to make the world safer, more efficient, and sustainable. We leverage advanced data analytics and AI to transform fleet performance and operations, reducing cost and driving efficiency. Backed by top data scientists and engineers, we serve approximately 100,000 global customers, processing 100 billion data points daily from more than 5 million vehicle subscriptions. Geotab is trusted by Fortune 500 organisations, mid-sized fleets, and the largest public sector fleets in the world, including the US Federal government. Committed to data security and privacy, we hold FIPS 140-3 and FedRAMP authorisations. Our open platform, ecosystem of outstanding partners, and Geotab Marketplace deliver hundreds of fleet-ready third-party solutions. This year, we’re celebrating 25 years of innovation. Learn more at www.geotab.com/uk and follow us on LinkedIn or visit our blog.

GEOTAB and GEOTAB MARKETPLACE are registered trademarks of Geotab Inc. in Canada, the United States and/or other countries.

Media Contact: Geotab Contact, Romina Dashghachian, Strategic Communications Lead, EMEA, pr@geotab.com

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IDX Opens Geneva Office and Strengthens Global Data & Insights Capability

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New Swiss presence and specialist team integration support growing global demand for evidence-based, defensible communications strategies

LONDON, May 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IDX today announced the opening of its new Geneva office and the integration of a specialist Data & Insights team, strengthening the company’s international footprint and expanding its ability to help clients worldwide build communications strategies grounded in evidence, market intelligence and audience insight.

The expansion gives IDX an on-the-ground presence in Switzerland while adding further depth to its Data & Insights capability. The Geneva-based team will work closely with IDX specialists across performance marketing and corporate communications, helping clients develop a clearer view of the markets they operate in and the forces shaping their growth.

The move aligns with Destination 250 – Customers First, IDX’s global strategy to grow its team by 250, focused on deepening client value, strengthening delivery and investing in the capabilities that matter most to clients.

The investment strengthens the Data pillar of IDX’s Connected Content™ model, which combines Creative, Data, Technology and Media to create what IDX calls The Multiplier Effect, helping clients multiply what matters through more connected, measurable and effective work.

“IDX is experiencing phenomenal growth, and our new Geneva office gives us boots on the ground to better serve clients across Europe and globally across performance marketing, investor relations and corporate communications,” said Crispin Beale, Worldwide CEO, IDX. “Data has been at the heart of this business for decades, and this centre of excellence reflects our continued investment in that capability. It’s an incredibly exciting time for IDX, and I look forward to the next phase of our growth as we continue to expand globally.”

“This is an exciting step in IDX’s growth story and a clear response to what clients are asking for: more evidence-based thinking, stronger market context and clearer rationale behind their communications strategies,” said Chris Corrigan, Chief Customer Growth Officer, IDX. “Our new presence in Geneva, combined with deeper Data & Insights expertise, strengthens the way we support clients globally, giving them earlier access to the insight and market context they need to make better-informed decisions and turn evidence into action.”

The Geneva office will strengthen relationships with existing clients in the region, support re-engagement with former partners and create new opportunities for IDX with organisations operating across European and global markets. It reflects IDX’s continued investment in the capabilities that matter most to clients as communications, marketing and corporate reputation work become increasingly data-led and commercially accountable.

“IDX’s integrated offer across insights, performance marketing and corporate communications, powered by the combination of human intelligence, advanced technology and AI, represents exactly where the industry is heading,” said Lonneke de Roo, Head of Data & Insights, IDX. “I am delighted to join the business and help clients navigate increasingly complex markets with clearer evidence, sharper insight and more connected strategies.”

ABOUT IDX  

IDX is a global strategic communications and marketing agency, headquartered in London with offices around the world, including New York, London, Phoenix, Helsinki, Gothenburg, Geneva, and Vadodara. Working with more than 1,600 clients across sectors, IDX combines deep industry knowledge with a data-first mindset to help ambitious brands thrive in complex, fast-moving markets. The firm specialises in performance marketing, investor relations, and stakeholder engagement, delivering integrated campaigns that drive meaningful business outcomes. Visit www.idx.inc to learn more.

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