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K-pop’s Latin American rise: Fans gain easier access to content and merch through Weverse and EBANX’s partnership

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EBANX enables Mexican consumers to purchase Weverse products using a local payment method, marking a key step in the growth of K-pop in Latin America

SEOUL, South Korea and CURITIBA, Brazil, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Weverse, the global superfan platform under HYBE, is expanding into Latin America for the first time, partnering with EBANX, a global fintech specializing in payments for emerging markets, to offer seamless local payment solutions. Starting in Mexico, fans are now able to purchase official merchandise, watch video on demand (VOD) content, and even send direct messages (DMs) to their favorite artists via Weverse using OXXO Pay, a widely adopted alternative payment method (APM) in the country. 

The partnership arrives as Latin America’s passion for K-pop reaches new heights amid Hallyu, or the “Korean Wave,” the global spread of South Korean culture. According to a report from South Korea’s government, K-pop dominated the largest share (34.9%) of Hallyu content in Latin America. In Mexico, the cumulative number of on-demand audio and video streams of K-pop reached 3.5 billion after a staggering growth of 25% in 2023, according to Luminate, a data analytics and insights company.

Local payments unlock global fandom

APMs like OXXO Pay are crucial for consumer accessibility in emerging countries, where only 30% of people use credit or debit cards, according to data from the World Bank Global Findex in EBANX’s study Beyond Borders 2025. For comparison, this rate rises to 85% in high-income markets, with South Korea at 90%. In Mexico, only 26% of people use credit and debit cards, and cash remains the preferred method for 80% of the population, as stated in a study by Banco de México.

For the first time, with EBANX’s integration, K-pop fans in Mexico can access a seamless fan experience on Weverse by purchasing merchandise, exclusive VOD content, and many more, even without a bank account or access to credit, by using OXXO Pay. According to the World Bank database, around half of Mexico’s population is unbanked, and only one in ten consumers has a credit card in the country. Through OXXO Pay, consumers can complete online purchases in cash at OXXO’s convenience stores, a popular local chain.

Weverse’s strategic entry into Latin America

“This partnership marks a milestone for K-pop’s expansion into Latin America and a strategic step for EBANX in the South Korean market,” said Sean Yu, VP of Merchant Success, APAC at EBANX. “We are looking forward to collaborating with Weverse, enabling local payments, and connecting  Mexican fans in a seamless and culturally relevant way.”

Recognizing Latin America as a key driver of K-pop’s global growth, HYBE, a global entertainment lifestyle platform company and the home to some of the most iconic K-pop groups, including BTS and SEVENTEEN, ventured into the region by launching HYBE LATIN AMERICA in 2023. “Latin American fans are incredibly passionate about K-pop, and our partnership with EBANX ensures they can access exclusive content and merchandise without payment friction,” noted Joon Choi, President of Weverse.

Future growth potential

According to a study from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) released last month, Latin America saw a remarkable 22.5% increase in music revenues in 2024, marking the region’s 15th consecutive year of growth. Streaming remained the primary driver, accounting for 87.8% of recorded music revenues. Brazil led the way with a 21.7% rise, making it the fastest-growing market among the global top ten. Meanwhile, Mexico recorded a 15.6% revenue increase, climbing to become the world’s tenth-largest recorded music market.

The partnership between Weverse and EBANX lays the groundwork for broader expansion across Latin America, where K-pop fandoms are rapidly growing. With EBANX’s expertise in local payment ecosystems, including market-specific solutions tailored to regional preferences, Weverse is poised to replicate its success and further strengthen its presence in this high-potential market.

ABOUT WEVERSE

Weverse Company is a global superfan platform whose vision is to innovate the platform business through the expansion of customer experience. In June 2019, Weverse and commerce platform Weverse Shop were launched. Weverse provides content and services optimized for fan activities along with the function of a communication channel between artists and fans. Weverse Shop offers artists’ official merchandise to customers around the world. Weverse is currently operating over 160 communities for K-pop icons such as BTS, SEVENTEEN, TOMORROW X TOGETHER, ENHYPEN, LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, BOYNEXTDOOR, TWS, ILLIT, NCT DREAM, NCT WISH, RIIZE, BABYMONSTER, P1Harmony, as well as global artists such as Ariana Grande, Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, the Kid Laroi, Conan Gray, and Gracie Abrams, reaffirming the platform’s position as the “ultimate global superfan platform”. HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment), the parent company of Weverse Company, has been chosen as one of “The World’s 50 most innovative companies” in 2022 and 2020 by Fast Company, which also highlighted Weverse and Weverse Shop as platforms to lead the establishment of one-stop service within the music industry.

For further information, please visit:

Website: https://weverse.io/

ABOUT EBANX 

EBANX is the leading payment platform connecting global businesses to the world’s fastest-growing digital markets. Founded in 2012 in Brazil, EBANX was built with a mission to expand access to international digital commerce. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep market expertise, and robust infrastructure, EBANX enables global companies to offer hundreds of local payment methods across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. More than just payments, EBANX drives growth, enhances sales, and delivers seamless purchase experiences for businesses and consumers alike.

For further information, please visit:

Website:https://www.ebanx.com/en/ 
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebanx

Media Contact: 
Shan Huang
shan.huang@ahgstrategies.com 

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SOURCE EBANX PTE. Ltd.

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DCCM Acquires Dynamic Solutions, LLC Expanding Water Resources Expertise

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DCCM has acquired Dynamic Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm recognized for advanced water resources, hydraulic, and hydrodynamic modeling. Dynamic Solutions expands DCCM’s technical capabilities in water and environmental modeling to better serve complex infrastructure and water-related client needs. Dynamic Solutions, founded in 1996 and offering services including watershed/hydrology studies, sediment transport, water quality, and ecological modeling, will continue operating with its existing leadership and team.

HOUSTON, May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — DCCM, a national provider of design, consulting, and program and construction management professional services, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Dynamic Solutions, LLC, a specialized consulting firm known for advanced water resources, hydraulic, and hydrodynamic modeling.

“This acquisition expands DCCM’s technical capabilities in advanced water and environmental modeling while strengthening our ability to serve clients facing complex infrastructure and water-related challenges,” said James F. (Jim) Thompson, PE, Chairman and CEO of DCCM.

Founded in 1996, Dynamic Solutions is nationally recognized for its expertise in hydraulic and hydrodynamic modeling, watershed and hydrology studies, sediment transport, water quality, and ecological modeling. The firm supports clients across federal, state, and local markets, as well as select technical advisory engagements, delivering analytical solutions for complex water and environmental challenges.

Dynamic Solutions operates from offices in Knoxville, Tennessee; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Columbus, Mississippi; and Hamilton, Ohio, supporting projects nationwide.

“This acquisition expands DCCM’s technical capabilities in advanced water and environmental modeling while strengthening our ability to serve clients facing complex infrastructure and water-related challenges,” said James F. (Jim) Thompson, PE, Chairman and CEO of DCCM. “Dynamic Solutions brings a depth of expertise and a reputation for technical excellence that aligns well with our long-term growth strategy.”

Dynamic Solutions will continue to operate with its existing leadership and team, maintaining its specialized service offerings and longstanding client relationships.

“Joining DCCM allows us to build on the outstanding work our team is known for while gaining access to broader resources and a national platform,” said Julie Wallen of Dynamic Solutions. “We look forward to continuing to deliver the same high level of service to our clients as part of the DCCM organization.”

About Dynamic Solutions, LLC

Dynamic Solutions, LLC is a consulting firm specializing in hydraulic and hydrodynamic modeling, watershed and hydrology studies, sediment transport, water quality, and ecological modeling. Founded in 1996, the firm serves public sector and institutional clients across the United States.

About DCCM

DCCM is a provider of design, consulting, and program and construction management professional services focused on infrastructure across the public and private sectors. Through a national platform, DCCM serves a diverse range of end markets.

DCCM is a portfolio company of Court Square Capital Partners.

For more information, please visit www.dccm.com.

Media Contact

Jessica Steglich, DCCM, 1 7138749162, marketing@dccm.com, dccm.com

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/dccm-acquires-dynamic-solutions-llc-expanding-water-resources-expertise-302760882.html

SOURCE DCCM

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Modine to Participate in Upcoming Oppenheimer Virtual Conference on May 5, 2026

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RACINE, Wis., May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Modine (NYSE: MOD), a diversified global leader in thermal management technology and solutions, announced today that it will participate in the Oppenheimer 21st Annual Industrial Growth Conference on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Neil D. Brinker, Modine President and Chief Executive Officer, and Michael B. (Mick) Lucareli, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will participate in a virtual fireside chat during the conference on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Eastern time (12:30 p.m. Central Time).

Live webcasts of the event will be available in the Investor Relations section of Modine’s website www.modine.com. Recordings of the events will be available for 365 days following the webcast.

About Modine
For more than 100 years, Modine has solved the toughest thermal management challenges for mission-critical applications. Our purpose of Engineering a Cleaner, Healthier World™ means we are always evolving our portfolio of technologies to provide the latest heating, cooling, and ventilation solutions. Through the hard work of more than 11,000 employees worldwide, our Climate Solutions, Data Centers, and Performance Technologies segments advance our purpose with systems that improve air quality, reduce energy and water consumption, lower harmful emissions, and enable the transition to a more sustainable future. Modine is a global company headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin (U.S.), with operations in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. For more information about Modine, visit modine.com.

Investor Contact
Kathleen Powers
(262) 636-1687
kathleen.t.powers@modine.com

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SOURCE Modine

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Blaize and Winmate Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement to Bring AI to Rugged Systems for Defense and Critical Infrastructure

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Joint solutions combine Blaize’s energy-efficient and industrial-grade AI chips with Winmate’s rugged platforms – including drones, handhelds, vehicle-mounted units, and embedded edge devices used by defense, border security, maritime, and healthcare operators.

TAIPEI and EL DORADO HILLS, Calif., May 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Blaize Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: BZAI, Nasdaq: BZAIW) (“Blaize,” the “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us”), and Winmate Inc., a publicly traded company in Taiwan, today announced they have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement (“Agreement”) with an intent to close approximately $15 million in business during the first year. The two companies will integrate Blaize’s AI chips into Winmate’s rugged systems, including drones, handhelds, vehicle-mounted units, and embedded devices that have to keep working in the field, often in places where regular hardware can’t survive.

The companies expect the Agreement to be the start of a much larger, multi-year relationship.

Why this partnership matters

Most AI today runs in large data centers rather than at the edge, where decisions must be made in real time. This model is often impractical for soldiers at remote posts, Coast Guard crew at sea, or medics in field clinics. They often don’t have a reliable network connection, and even when they do, they can’t afford to wait for an application to respond from halfway across the globe.

That’s the gap Blaize and Winmate intend to address through this partnership. Blaize’s chips were designed to industrial grade specifications and run AI directly on the device, with no cloud dependency. Winmate’s systems are purpose-built to perform in extreme environments, including heat, cold, dust, vibration, and rough handling. Together, they deliver real-time AI capabilities exactly where it’s needed, whether in drones, field units, the patrol vehicles, or diagnostic devices.

A fast-growing market

Demand for on-device AI is accelerating. According to BCC Research[1], the global edge AI market is projected to grow from $11.8 billion in 2025 to $56.8 billion by 2030, a 36.9% compound annual growth rate. Defense agencies, governments, hospitals, ports, and critical infrastructure operators all demand AI that can run securely on their equipment, without sending sensitive data over public networks.

From the leaders

“Our customers can’t wait, and they often can’t rely on the cloud. They need AI that runs where the work happens. Winmate makes some of the most capable rugged systems in the industry, and our chips are designed to run AI inside exactly those kinds of devices. This partnership turns a years-long vision into a practical, deployable answer for defense and critical infrastructure operators,” said Dinakar Munagala, CEO of Blaize, Inc.

“Our platforms are deployed on naval vessels, in border outposts, on industrial sites, and in disaster zones – environments where most hardware fails. With Blaize, we can now deliver those same systems with on-device AI built in, giving customers real-time intelligence wherever they operate,” said Ken Lu, Chairman and CEO of Winmate Inc.

Target applications

Border security and surveillance: Real-time threat detection and perimeter monitoringMobile command and control: On-site intelligence and situational awareness for field teamsDrones and unmanned systems: Autonomous navigation and mission execution for UAVs and ground vehiclesCritical infrastructure: Continuous monitoring and predictive analytics for power, ports, and transportationMaritime domain awareness: Vessel tracking and anomaly detection at seaField healthcare: Portable diagnostics and decision support in remote and disaster environments

Deal at a glance

First-year revenue: the parties intend to work in good faith to close approximately $15 million in business, expected to scale meaningfully in subsequent yearsTerm: Three-year initial term, with automatic renewalNext steps: Joint engineering, sales, and marketing execution to bring integrated systems to market, with additional opportunities to be added through follow-on programs

[1] BCC Research, “Global Edge AI Market,” October 2025

About Blaize, Inc.

Blaize delivers a programmable AI platform, purpose-built for AI inference workloads in real-world environments. Its Hybrid AI architecture combines the Blaize GSP (Graph Streaming Processor) with GPU-based infrastructure, enabling AI inference workloads to run across edge, cloud, and data center. Blaize solutions support computer vision, multimodal AI, and sensor-driven applications across smart cities, industrial automation, telecommunications, retail, logistics, and defense. Blaize is headquartered in El Dorado Hills, California, with a global presence across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Visit www.blaize.com or follow us on LinkedIn @blaizeinc.

About Winmate Inc.

Winmate Inc. is a publicly traded global leader in rugged computing systems, delivering industrial-grade platforms – including handhelds, tablets, vehicle-mounted units, panel PCs, and embedded modules – for demanding environments across defense, transportation, energy, healthcare, and industrial markets.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) that are based on beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Blaize, including expectations and scope of customer contracts, including the Strategic Partnership Agreement with Winmate, the potential value and the timing of revenue pursuant to such contracts, preliminary estimates of results of operations and guidance on results for future periods, the industry in which Blaize operates, market opportunities, and product offerings. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “target,” “seek” or the negative or plural of these words, or other similar expressions that are predictions or indicate future events or prospects, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to those factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 24, 2026, and other documents filed by Blaize from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Blaize assumes no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law, including the securities laws of the United States and the rules and regulations of the SEC. Blaize does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations.

Blaize Contact

press@blaize.com
www.blaize.com 

Investors

ir@blaize.com
www.blaize.com 

Winmate Inc.

Liu, Chih-Yuan
Tel: +886-2-8511-0288
Email: spokesman1@winmate.com.tw
https://www.winmate.com/ 

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SOURCE Blaize Inc.

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