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Cathay FHC leads Taiwan’s Renewable Energy Push at LSEG’s Climate Investment Summit During Climate Week London

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Cathay FHC’s Three Arrows for Energy Transition: Renewable Energy Investment and Financing, Innovative Collaboration in Renewable Energy, and Leveraging Core Competencies to Innovate Services.

TAIPEI, June 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sustainable finance boosts the competitiveness of achieving net-zero transformation. Yesterday (26th), Lee Chang-Ken, President of Cathay Financial Holdings (Cathay FHC), personally attended the “Climate Investment Summit” at the London Stock Exchange (LSEG), marking the second consecutive year he has been the only speaker from Taiwan. Building on the consensus of “Energy System Transformation and Moving Away from Fossil Fuels” reached at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in 2023, Lee used Asia as an example to discuss the challenges and solutions in promoting renewable energy, sharing Cathay FHC’s cross-industry efforts and tangible results in driving renewable energy initiatives. This demonstrated Taiwan’s financial sector’s success in achieving net-zero transformation on a global scale.

The “Climate Investment Summit” has been an iconic platform of global climate solutions, held at the historical financial hub of LSEG. Cathay FHC not only became the only Taiwanese financial institution invited to the summit again but also acted as a bridge for energy transition dialogue between Europe, America, and Asia. This signifies the international recognition of Taiwan’s financial industry’s commitment and achievements in energy transition. Lee participated in the summit’s discussion on “Renewable Returns: The Business Case for Mature Energy Technologies,” sharing how Cathay FHC supports the development of low-carbon industries through capital and innovative financial services. Cathay FHC has been recognized for two consecutive years as a global best practice case by the “Investor Agenda” for its “Investor Climate Action Plans” (ICAPs), making it the only selected asset owner in Asia.

During the panel, Lee pointed out the pain points and solutions for promoting renewable energy in Southeast Asia, shared the history of the Taiwanese government’s efforts in promoting renewable energy, and discussed Cathay FHC’s role as a pioneer in the field. Cathay FHC continues to lead intrial implementation, guiding the market to understand the feasibility. ‘We are also pleased to support various innovative models that will benefit the future,’ emphasizes Lee. It is noted that Asia is the main source of global electricity demand growth and still heavily relies on fossil fuels. Southeast Asian governments should continue to enhance policy stability and strengthen infrastructure, while making good use of financial tools such as guarantees or blended finance to improve the cost of capital and investment risks in emerging markets. They should also address just transition issues such as labor employment to ensure the success of the energy transition.

Cathay FHC is the sixth financial institution in Asia to set SBT validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). It has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in its financial assetsby 2050. Cathay FHC is also the first Taiwanese financial industry member of RE100 and a pioneer in renewable energy financing in Taiwan. In the fields of low-carbon transition and renewable energy innovation, Cathay FHC continues to lead in trial implementations, guiding the market to understand feasibility and becoming a key driver of renewable energy in Taiwan. In 2023, Cathay FHC’s renewable energy usage reached 17.95 million kWh, and by the end of 2023, the total amount of low-carbon investments and financing amounted to NT$330.5 billion (approximately equivalent to USD 11.7 billion).

Regarding Cathay FHC’ path to promoting renewable energy development, Lee outlined three major strategies. The first strategy involves “Enhancing Renewable Energy Investments and Financing.” In 2023, Cathay FHC’s total investments and financing in renewable energy reached NT$63.3 billion (approximately USD 2 billion), with a solar installation capacity of 1,504 MW. Cathay United Bank pioneered Taiwan’s first solar and offshore wind power financing; Cathay Life Insurance became Taiwan’s first life insurance company to establish the solar project investment firm “Cathay Power”. Recently, this company has been developing renewable energy on land deemed unsuitable for agriculture by the Ministry of Agriculture, fostering a mutually beneficial scenario for land revitalization and renewable energy development, while increasing power generation to meet market demand.

Secondly, Cathay FHC promotes “Innovative Collaboration in Renewable Energy.” Lee believes that Cathay FHC’s emphasis on stakeholders’ success, active attempts at collaborative innovation, and the pursuit of suitable directions to identify success stories are the reasons why Cathay FHC can continually overcome challenges and accelerate the development of renewable energy. For example, Cathay Power aims to systematically think about agrivoltaics, creating a standardized, scalable, and sustainable agrivoltaics model. The collaboration with the government to launch the “Agri-Light Project” agrivoltaics experiment in Dalin, Chiayi, is an innovative plan that integrates the cultivation of forge grass with photovoltaic technology. This initiative addresses several issues: it is expected to reduces Taiwan’s reliance on imported forage and mitigates the risks of instability of the international supply chain while avoiding negative impact on local agriculture. Furthermore, livestock manure can be utilized for biogas power generation, with the residue serving as organic fertilizer, thereby promoting balanced and circular agriculture in Taiwan.

Thirdly, Lee emphasized the importance of “Leveraging Core Competencies to Innovate Services.” Facing the numerous challenges climate change poses to businesses, Cathay FHC proactively seeks solutions by leveraging its core financial competencies to offer diverse, innovative services, turning challenges into opportunities. For example, Cathay Securities collaborated closely with Cathay FHC’ Digital Data & Technology Center(DDT)’s blockchain team to develop a Security Token Offering (STO) product, Taiwan’s first STO. The issuance involves a 6-year debt-based STO offering a 3.5% annual interest rate. Coupled with a preferential purchase mechanism for electric machinery, the overall investment return rate increases significantly, assisting green energy enterprises in raising funds from professional investors and giving investors more confidence. Small and medium-sized enterprises often struggle to independently purchase green power. As Taiwan’s largest commercial real estate owner, Cathay Life consolidates the purchase and distribution of green power, enabling our tenants to obtain it more efficiently. This approach plays a vital role in bridging the renewable energy supply-demand gap. In 2023, 18 enterprises received a total of 13.49 million kWh of green power.

Lee further stated that Cathay FHC is dedicated to collaborating with partners and customers from various sectors to explore more climate solutions together. On coming July 3rd, the annual “Cathay Sustainable Finance and Climate Change Summit,” will focus on net-zero solutions and sustainable finance. This summit will feature prominent experts and leading companies in sustainability, including Sam Kimmins, Director of Energy at the Climate Group, who will together share forward-looking perspectives and industry practices. The event aims to guide Taiwanese enterprises in accelerating climate action and showcasing Taiwan’s industrial achievements and commitment to net-zero goals on the global stage.

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SOURCE Cathay Financial Holdings

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IdentityIQ Expands Access to Identity Protection and Financial Wellness Tools with New Spanish-Language Experience

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September 1, 2026

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New Spanish-language version brings identity protection, credit monitoring and financial health resources to more than 41 million Spanish-dominant speakers in the U.S.

TEMECULA, Calif., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IdentityIQ, a leading provider of identity theft protection, credit monitoring and financial wellness solutions, today announced the launch of new plans now in Spanish, expanding access to comprehensive identity and credit protection to more than 41 million Spanish-dominant speakers in the United States.

The new Spanish-language experience gives consumers the ability to enroll, access their member dashboard and manage their financial health entirely in Spanish. The launch also supports B2B partners serving Spanish-speaking customers with a localized partner experience.

“Financial protection shouldn’t depend on language,” said Rick Eggleton, chief revenue officer for IDIQ, which operates the IdentityIQ brand. “Our Spanish-language offering gives millions of consumers greater access to the tools they need to protect their identity, credit and financial health.”

The Spanish-language plans include IdentityIQ’s most comprehensive suite of identity protection and financial wellness tools, including credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, identity theft alerts, credit score tracking, optional rent and utility payment reporting, credit education and other financial health resources.

The launch addresses a significant gap in the financial services marketplace, where language barriers can limit access to tools that help consumers monitor their credit, detect potential identity theft and build stronger financial profiles.

“This is more than translating a product,” Eggleton said. “It’s about making identity protection and financial wellness easier to understand, easier to access and more relevant to Spanish-speaking consumers.”

The launch reflects IdentityIQ’s broader commitment to making identity protection and financial wellness more accessible to underserved communities. By offering its core services in Spanish, IdentityIQ is helping remove language barriers that can make it more difficult for consumers to understand and actively manage their credit and financial health.

The Spanish-language launch also expands opportunities for IdentityIQ’s B2B partners to provide identity protection and financial wellness benefits to Spanish-speaking customers and employees.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to understand and take control of their financial wellness,” Eggleton said. “Expanding our premium plan in Spanish is an important step toward making that possible for millions of consumers.”

For more information on IdentityIQ’s Spanish-language plans and its comprehensive identity protection, credit monitoring and financial wellness solutions, visit https://www.identityiq.com.

About IdentityIQ

IdentityIQ®, offered by IDIQ®, is a leading provider of identity theft protection, credit monitoring and financial wellness solutions. IdentityIQ helps consumers monitor and protect their identities, credit and personal information through comprehensive monitoring, alerts and recovery support services.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/identityiq-expands-access-to-identity-protection-and-financial-wellness-tools-with-new-spanish-language-experience-302866626.html

SOURCE IDIQ

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BKF Appoints Andrew Esposito Chief Financial Officer

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September 1, 2026

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People-focused AEC industry veteran appointed to support strategic growth

OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BKF, the premier AEC firm in the Western United States, today announced the appointment of Andrew Esposito as Chief Financial Officer, a strategic addition to its executive leadership team as the firm continues to invest in growth, expand its market presence, and pursue new opportunities across the region.

A proven financial and operational leader, Esposito brings extensive experience guiding organizations through periods of expansion while maintaining a strong focus on culture, performance, and long-term value creation. As CFO, Esposito will lead BKF’s financial strategy and operations, helping position the firm for its next chapter of growth while supporting the company’s commitment to employees, clients, and strategic partners.

“Andrew brings a rare combination of financial acumen, operational insight, and people-centered leadership to BKF,” said CEO Darren Riegler. “He understands that the most successful organizations are built on a foundation of trust, shared values, and disciplined growth. His experience and perspective will help us continue expanding our impact, strengthening our partnerships, and creating long-term value for our people and our partners.”

Most recently, Esposito served as CFO at WSP USA, where he had end-to-end responsibility for the finance operations of an approximately $8 billion business. During his tenure, he helped scale the finance organization through a threefold increase in revenue and headcount. He also played a senior role in more than a dozen acquisitions and carve-outs totaling approximately $5 billion in transaction value.

“Strong financial performance and strong organizations are built together,” said Esposito. “From the beginning, I was drawn to BKF’s culture, energy, and strong sense of purpose, as well as its reputation for innovation, client focus, and sustained growth. I’m excited to work alongside the leadership team to build on that momentum, support the firm’s long-term success, and help advance our shared vision of becoming the preeminent infrastructure firm in the Western U.S.”

The appointment comes as BKF continues to execute its growth strategy, building on the successful merger with MNS and acquisition of Lotus Water to expand its capabilities and deliver greater value across the full project lifecycle.

About BKF

For more than 110 years, BKF has partnered with public and private clients to plan, design, and deliver infrastructure projects that strengthens communities throughout the Western United States. With more than 800 people across 20 offices, BKF provides planning, engineering, surveying, program and construction management, and consulting services for transportation, water, government, and land development projects.

Our mission is simple: Do great work, grow a thriving business, and delight our clients. We believe great infrastructure starts with strong relationships, collaboration, and a shared vision for building a better future. Together with our clients, BKF tackles the region’s most complex challenges and creates lasting impact in the communities where we work.

For more information, visit bkf.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bkf-appoints-andrew-esposito-chief-financial-officer-302866631.html

SOURCE BKF

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The World Is Invited: Edison Awards Opens Nominations for Its 40th Anniversary Year

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September 1, 2026

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A Global Icon of Innovation Marks Four Decades — And Calls On Innovators Everywhere to Step Forward

FORT MYERS, Fla., Sept. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Forty years ago, a handful of bold ideas changed how the world lives, works, and moves. Today, the Edison Awards, one of the world’s most recognized names in innovation, throws open its doors for its landmark 40th anniversary, inviting innovators, entrepreneurs, and enterprises on every continent to put their breakthroughs on the world stage.

“We are seeing extraordinary innovation emerge from every region of the world, and our 40th year is a chance to recognize just how far this global community of innovators has brought us and how much further we’ll go together,” said Frank Bonafilia, CEO of the Edison Awards.

Starting September 1, 2026, nominations open for the 2027 Edison Best New Product Awards™. Whether it’s a five-person startup team working out of a garage or a Fortune 500 R&D powerhouse, the invitation is the same: bring the innovation you’re proudest of and let the world see it. Nominations close December 15, 2026, with winners revealed in March 2027.

“Forty years ago, the Edison Awards set out to celebrate the innovators bold enough to reimagine what’s possible and that mission has only grown more urgent, and more global, with every passing year,” said Frank Bonafilia, CEO of the Edison Awards. “This anniversary year is shaping up to be our most exciting yet. We are seeing extraordinary innovation emerge from every region of the world, and our 40th year is a chance to recognize just how far this global community of innovators has brought us and how much further we’ll go together.”

Four Decades of Naming What’s Next

Since 1987, the Edison Awards has celebrated the products and ideas that went on to define entire industries in health, sustainability, mobility, and technology. Forty years in, the program isn’t slowing down: it’s expanding, honoring nominees from startups to global enterprises, from every corner of the map.

Two New Awards Built for a Global Stage

Two new honors join the program: The Global Excellence Award, for the best innovation across five regions North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific and The Innovation at Scale Award, honoring standout innovation from Startup/Emerging (under 10 employees) to Global Enterprise (5,000+ employees).

2027 Award Categories

Commercial Technology, Consumer Solutions, Critical Human Infrastructure, Cultural Impact & Education, Energy & Climate Resiliency, Engineering & Robotics, Health, Medical & Biotech, Lifestyle, Entertainment & Design, Manufacturing & Logistics, Materials Science, Public Safety, Security & Digital Integrity, Software Solutions, Transportation, Aerospace & Flight, and Water, Food & Agriculture.

The Call Is Open — Here’s How to Answer It

Early Bird: September 1 – October 15, 2026. General: October 16 – December 15, 2026.

Eligible products launched January 2025–January 2027, judged on Concept, Value, and Impact.

Be counted among them. Submit your nomination at www.edisonawards.com.

About The Edison Awards: Established in 1987, the Edison Best New Product Awards™ honor excellence in product and service innovation transforming how we live, work, and play. Inspired by Thomas Edison’s legacy, the program recognizes game-changing solutions worldwide, offering global recognition, credibility, and connections that drive growth.

Media Contact

Frank Bonafilia, Edison Awards, 1 7732305744, fbonafilia@edisonawards.com, https://edisonawards.com/

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/the-world-is-invited-edison-awards-opens-nominations-for-its-40th-anniversary-year-302864733.html

SOURCE Edison Awards

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