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HKEX to Open Office in Riyadh to Expand Middle East Presence

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HONG KONG, Oct. 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) is pleased to announce today (Wednesday) that it plans to open an office in Riyadh in 2025. The new office will strengthen HKEX’s Middle East presence as the Group looks to promote greater connectivity between China and the Gulf region, aiming to facilitate new opportunities for its customers and issuers around the world.

Situated in Saudi Arabia’s economic powerhouse and a leading financial hub in the region, the new Riyadh office will enable HKEX to better connect with investors and companies in one of the world’s most dynamic and innovative economic hubs, providing on-the-ground support to help them access Hong Kong’s broad and diverse financial products ecosystem, as well as to capture the opportunities arising from megatrends that define Asia’s growth story.

HKEX Chief Executive Officer Bonnie Y Chan said: “We are delighted to be opening a Middle East office in Riyadh, marking the first step in elevating our presence across this vibrant and fast-growing region. This underscores our strategic commitment to promoting greater capital market connections between China and the Middle East, whilst supporting the ambitions of our broad range of customers from the region and around the world. As investment ties between the Middle East and Asia grow stronger, Hong Kong and HKEX’s roles in connecting capital and opportunities between these regions have become more important than ever. Joining our offices in Beijing, London, New York, Shanghai, and Singapore, the new Riyadh office will enable us to foster greater global coverage and facilitate access for Middle East clients to Asia’s most international, diverse and liquid capital markets in Hong Kong.”

HKEX has made significant progress in its engagements in the Middle East, with meaningful collaboration and partnerships. These include signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Tadawul Group, welcoming Asia first and the world’s biggest Saudi-focused Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF), and adding the Saudi Exchange, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, and Dubai Financial Market to HKEX’s list of Recognised Stock Exchanges. These initiatives demonstrate HKEX’s commitment to fostering collaboration and enhancing market accessibility between China and the Middle East.

Additionally, the listing of two ETFs tracking Hong Kong-listed equities this week on the Saudi Exchange marks a significant milestone in the capital market connectivity between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, and builds on the listing of the first Saudi-focused ETF in Hong Kong last November.

APPENDIX

HKEX has continued to deepen strategic partnerships with the Middle East:

HKEX brought the first FII PRIORITY Asia and Capital Markets Forum (CMF) to Hong Kong to connect investors and corporates between the two regionsSigned MOU with Saudi Tadawul Group (STG) in 2023 to explore collaboration in cross listings, exchange products and ESGAdded Saudi Exchange (2023), Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and Dubai Financial Market (2024), to the list of Recognised Stock Exchanges (RSE), opening the door for Middle Eastern companies to seek secondary listings in Hong KongWelcomed Asia Pacific’s first and the world’s biggest Saudi-focused ETF listing in Hong Kong (2023)The London Metal Exchange, a subsidiary of HKEX, approved a warehouse delivery point for copper and zinc in the Red Sea port city of Jeddah

About HKEX

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) is a publicly-traded company (HKEX Stock Code: 388) and one of the world’s leading global exchange groups, offering a range of equity, derivative, commodity, fixed income and other financial markets, products and services, including the London Metal Exchange.

As a superconnector and gateway between East and West, HKEX facilitates the two-way flow of capital, ideas and dialogue between China and the rest of the world, through its pioneering Connect schemes, increasingly diversified product ecosystem and its deep, liquid and international markets.

HKEX is a purpose-led organisation which, across its business and through the work of HKEX Foundation, seeks to connect, promote and progress its markets and the communities it supports for the prosperity of all.

www.hkexgroup.com

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Topaz Labs announces its largest single release of AI models in company history with “Next-Gen” launch

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DALLAS, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Topaz Labs, the AI image and video enhancement company, has announced four new image enhancement models and two video enhancement models across five applications. The collection of “Next-Gen” models offer powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content. Image models included are Wonder 3, Denoise Max, Super Focus 3, and High Fidelity 3. For video, Starlight Precise 2.5 and Astra 2 were announced.

The collection of models offers powerful sharpening, denoising, and upscaling results to visual content.

“This is both the largest and most technically advanced set of models we’ve released in the company’s history,” says Eric Yang, CEO, Topaz Labs. “We launched Topaz NeuroStream earlier this year with the goal of enabling local rendering of complex models for more users. Without such technology, the complex, heavyweight AI models in today’s release would have been limited to cloud-only rendering, forcing users to pay per use and be reliant on internet connection. We believe local use is crucial to the future of AI in both professional and consumer use cases, and today’s release is a huge step.” 

Topaz NeuroStream is proprietary technology that reduces VRAM usage by up to 95% and allows exponentially more users on consumer-grade hardware to use AI models locally. A total of six Topaz models are now powered by NeuroStream.

Next-Gen Release Image Models 

Wonder 3: A magical, one-click sharpen, upscale, and denoise model for images.
Denoise Max: New standard for removing noise and grain in images.
Super Focus 3: Next-level sharpening model that brings subjects back from the blur.
High Fidelity 3: The newest model for upscaling high-res inputs like smartphone photos and RAW images.

All image models in this release are available in Topaz Photo desktop application and via API. Wonder 3 and Denoise Max are also available in Express, a web-based tool.

Next-Gen Release Video Models

Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local): Groundbreaking video model that brings out natural visual details with stunning results, with local availability in Topaz Video

Astra 2: The next generation of creative video upscaling that enhances clarity, richness, and visual complexity of videos by adding new detail.

Both highlighted video models are available via cloud rendering in Astra and API. Starlight Precise 2.5 (Local) can be found in the Topaz Video desktop application.

About Topaz Labs
Founded in 2005, Topaz Labs is a leader in AI-powered image and video enhancement. Its technology is used by 1.5 million customers, including 20 of the world’s top 50 companies. Known for industry-leading products like Topaz Photo, Topaz Video, Topaz Gigapixel, Astra and Bloom, the company continues to invest heavily in research and development, advancing the frontiers of imaging technology in collaboration with academic and industry partners.

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SOURCE Topaz Labs

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Dreame Technology Launches the L60 Series, Led by the Flagship L60 Pro Ultra

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New lineup brings industry-leading intelligence and full-home automation to a new generation of robot vacuums

SAN FRANCISCO, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology, a leader in smart home innovation, today announced the L60 Series, a new lineup of four robot vacuums engineered for the full range of modern home environments. Built on a shared foundation of premium cleaning performance, intelligent navigation, and hands-free automation, the L60 Series is designed to meet the needs of every kind of household, from compact apartments to multi-story homes, and from single-surface layouts to complex mixed-flooring environments.

“The L60 Series represents exactly what Dreame stands for: powerful, intelligent cleaning that adapts to how people actually live,” said Ana Wang, CEO of Dreame Technology North America. “Whether you have a multi-story home, pets, mixed flooring, or low furniture, there’s an L60 built for your needs. Every model in the lineup delivers the core cleaning experience our customers expect from Dreame.”

Meet the L60 Series

The L60 Series is built around four distinct models, each tailored to a different home profile and cleaning priority:

L60 Pro Ultra — The Ultimate All-in-One. The flagship vacuum is purpose-built for large floor plans, multi-surface transitions, and complex terrain. Features the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water, and an industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery.L60 Ultra — Precision Whole-Home Coverage. A balanced high-performer built around Dreame’s latest 2026 sensor technology and a 3.23in (82mm) ultra-thin design for precise navigation in low-light spaces and flawless cleaning under low-profile furniture. Includes AI-Enhanced 3D ToF Vision, 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush 2.0, SmartDirt™ Detection, Pet-Friendly Care 5.0, and Matter, Apple Watch, and Home Screen Shortcut support.L60 Ultra PE (Performance Edition) — The Intelligent Step-Up. An upgraded everyday performer for homes that need an extra boost on hair pickup, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, 3DAdapt™ Obstacle Avoidance, and Smart Pathfinder Technology with 220 object type recognition.L60 Ultra FE (Fine Edition) — The Essential Automated Choice. An entry-level powerhouse delivering the core promise of maintenance-free floor care, with 30,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, TriCut Brush 3.0, Dual Flex Arm Technology, and the full PowerDock™ automation experience.

A Shared Foundation of Premium Performance

Every model in the L60 Series shares a core set of capabilities that set a new baseline for modern robot vacuums, including:

212°F (100°C) ThermoHub™ Mop Self-Cleaning for hygienically clean mop pads after every cycle30,000–35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction across the lineup for powerful pickup on every surfaceDual Flex Arm Technology for adaptive side-brush and mop coverage in corners and along edgesMop Lifting for seamless transitions between hard floors and carpetAutomatic Solution Dispensing for consistent cleaning chemistry without manual refillsThe 8-in-1 PowerDock™ base station, which handles auto-empty, mop washing, hot-air drying, and solution management for truly hands-free operation

L60 Pro Ultra: The Flagship Experience, Redefined for Complex Homes

Leading the lineup is the L60 Pro Ultra, featuring select top-tier specifications optimized for large-scale layouts and complex terrains. It pairs the series’ most capable hardware with Dreame’s most advanced intelligence to deliver a seamless, one-stop cleaning experience that effortlessly tackles stubborn stains across expansive and complex home layouts.

At the heart of the Pro Ultra’s navigation advantage is the 3.46-inch ProLeap™ System, the lineup’s most capable obstacle-crossing system, paired with VersaLift Navigation for cleaning under low-clearance furniture. It is equipped with dual-laser 3D structured light, an AI RGB camera, and LED illumination, enabling it to recognize over 280 types of obstacles — for precise, real-time avoidance in any lighting condition.

The Pro Ultra delivers 35,000Pa Vormax™ Suction alongside the HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush, together extracting embedded debris, pet hair, and fine particles from every floor type without tangles or jams. Its Dual Omni-Scrub Mopping with Hot Water system pairs rotating mop pads with a Thermal Mop Pad and ThermoHub™ 212°F (100°C) Mop Self-Cleaning, while the AceClean™ DryBoard minimizes residue — eliminating grease, bacteria, and moisture that cold-water systems simply can’t address. An industry-leading 6,400mAh PowerCore™ Battery provides whole-home coverage on a single charge.

The Pro Ultra’s OmniDirt™ Detection Technology identifies high-soil areas and automatically triggers Mop Rewashing and Floor Remopping for a truly thorough result. Pet-Friendly Care 4.0 adds pet-aware detection and navigation, while Upgraded Intelligent Carpet Cleaning optimizes suction and mop behavior for mixed-flooring homes. Direct Voice Control and app control round out the experience for effortless day-to-day use.

Pricing and Availability

The Dreame L60 Series is available now through the Dreame website and Amazon (L60 Pro Ultra, L60 Ultra, L60 Ultra PE, L60 Ultra FE), with launch-offer pricing through the official website. Customers who purchase on dreametech.com receive a free accessory kit with their order.

L60 Pro Ultra — MSRP $1,399.99 | Launch Offer $1,259.99L60 Ultra — MSRP $1,299.99 | Launch Offer $1,169.99L60 Ultra PE — MSRP $1,099.99 | Launch Offer $879.99L60 Ultra FE — MSRP $999.99 | Launch Offer $749.99

For more information about the L60 Series, visit dreametech.com/pages/l60-series-robot-vacuum.

About Dreame Technology

Established in 2017, Dreame Technology is an innovative consumer product company focused on smart home cleaning appliances with the vision to empower lives through technology. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. For more information, please visit https://www.dreametech.com/.

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SOURCE Dreame Technology

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Vanda Pharmaceuticals announces the publication of “Efficacy and Safety of Imsidolimab for Generalized Pustular Psoriasis” in NEJM Evidence

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WASHINGTON, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Vanda) (Nasdaq: VNDA) today announced the publication of the original research article titled “Efficacy and Safety of Imsidolimab for Generalized Pustular Psoriasis” in New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) Evidence1.

The findings of this pivotal phase III study are included in the Biologics License Application (BLA) for imsidolimab for the treatment of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP), submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a target action date of December 12, 2026.

References

Smieszek, S. et al. Efficacy and Safety of Imsidolimab for Generalized Pustular Psoriasis. NEJM Evidence 5, (2026). 

About Imsidolimab

Imsidolimab is a fully humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that inhibits IL-36 receptor signaling and is being developed for GPP, a rare orphan indication. Regulatory and patent exclusivity for imsidolimab is expected to extend into the late 2030s. Vanda holds an exclusive global license for the development and commercialization of imsidolimab from AnaptysBio (Nasdaq: ANAB).

About Vanda Pharmaceuticals

Vanda is a leading global biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative therapies to address high unmet medical needs and improve the lives of patients. For more on Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc., please visit www.vandapharma.com and follow us on X @vandapharma.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Various statements in this press release, including, but not limited to statements regarding the anticipated timing of the completion of the FDA’s review of the imsidolimab BLA; Vanda’s plans to seek FDA approval of imsidolimab for the treatment of GPP; and the potential to extend regulatory and patent exclusivity for imsidolimab into the late 2030s, are “forward-looking statements” under the securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and assumptions that involve risks, changes in circumstances and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in Vanda’s forward-looking statements include, among others, the FDA’s ability to complete its review of, and reach a decision with respect to, the imsidolimab BLA by December 12, 2026; Vanda’s ability to obtain FDA approval of imsidolimab for the treatment of GPP; and Vanda’s ability to satisfy the conditions necessary to extend regulatory and patent exclusivity for imsidolimab into the late 2030s. Therefore, no assurance can be given that the results or developments anticipated by Vanda will be realized, or even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, Vanda. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the various risks and uncertainties that affect Vanda’s business and market, particularly those identified in the “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements”, “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of Vanda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as updated by Vanda’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at www.sec.gov.

All written and verbal forward-looking statements attributable to Vanda or any person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to herein. Vanda cautions investors not to rely too heavily on the forward-looking statements Vanda makes or that are made on its behalf. The information in this press release is provided only as of the date of this press release, and Vanda undertakes no obligation, and specifically declines any obligation, to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Corporate Contact:
Kevin Moran
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc.
202-734-3400
pr@vandapharma.com

Jim Golden / Jack Kelleher / Dan Moore
Collected Strategies
VANDA-CS@collectedstrategies.com

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SOURCE Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc.

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