Technology

LENDINGTREE REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2025 RESULTS

Published

1 year ago

May 1, 2025

Revenue Growth Across All Segments Driving Solid Performance

Consolidated revenue of $239.7 millionGAAP net income of $(12.4) million or $(0.92) per diluted shareVariable marketing margin of $77.7 millionAdjusted EBITDA of $24.6 millionAdjusted net income per share of $0.99

CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LendingTree, Inc. (NASDAQ: TREE), operator of LendingTree.com, the nation’s leading online financial services marketplace, today announced results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

The company has posted a letter to shareholders on the company’s website at investors.lendingtree.com.

“We are happy to report quarterly AEBITDA grew 14% YoY. The first quarter’s results, driven by YoY revenue growth in all three of our business segments, exemplifies the durability of the ongoing improvement in our financial performance,” said Doug Lebda, Chairman and CEO.

Scott Peyree, President and COO, commented, “Our commitment to operational excellence is steadily delivering numerous wins across the company. Executing on these various initiatives has helped to broaden growth across all three of our segments.”

Jason Bengel, CFO, added, “The business continues to perform well, helping to fortify our balance sheet. We remain focused on carefully managing our fixed costs while strategically investing in discrete growth initiatives. This ongoing commitment to discipline and accountability is becoming ingrained across the company, establishing a culture of efficiency as we move forward.”

First Quarter 2025 Business Highlights

Home segment revenue of $37.0 million increased 22% over first quarter 2024 and produced segment profit of $13.1 million, up 36% from the same period.Within Home, revenue from Home Equity of $25.8 million increased 24% over prior year.Consumer segment revenue of $56.0 million increased 9% from first quarter 2024.Within Consumer, personal loans revenue of $23.4 million grew 16% over prior year.Revenue from our small business offering increased 48% over prior year.Insurance segment revenue of $146.7 million increased 71% over first quarter 2024 and translated into segment profit of $38.7 million, up 16% over the same period.GAAP net income was $(12.4) million, or $(0.92) per diluted share, inclusive of a $15M increase in our litigation reserve following a preliminary agreement on the terms of settlement in the Mantha case, following mediation, which is not final and subject to approval by the court.

LendingTree Summary Financial Metrics

(In millions, except per share amounts)

Three Months Ended

March 31,

Y/Y

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Q/Q

2025

2024

% Change

2024

% Change

Total revenue

$ 239.7

$ 167.8

43 %

$ 261.5

(8) %

(Loss) income before income taxes

$ (14.8)

$ 1.6

(1025) %

$ 9.1

(263) %

Income tax benefit (expense)

$ 2.4

$ (0.6)

(500) %

$ (1.6)

(250) %

Net (loss) income

$ (12.4)

$ 1.0

(1340) %

$ 7.5

(265) %

Net (loss) income % of revenue

(5) %

1 %

3 %

(Loss) income per share

Basic

$ (0.92)

$ 0.08

$ 0.56

Diluted

$ (0.92)

$ 0.08

$ 0.55

Variable marketing margin

Total revenue

$ 239.7

$ 167.8

43 %

$ 261.5

(8) %

Variable marketing expense (1) (2)

$ (162.0)

$ (98.4)

65 %

$ (174.8)

(7) %

Variable marketing margin (2)

$ 77.7

$ 69.4

12 %

$ 86.7

(10) %

Variable marketing margin % of revenue (2)

32 %

41 %

33 %

Adjusted EBITDA (2)

$ 24.6

$ 21.6

14 %

$ 32.2

(24) %

Adjusted EBITDA % of revenue (2)

10 %

13 %

12 %

Adjusted net income (2)

$ 13.5

$ 9.2

47 %

$ 15.8

(15) %

Adjusted net income per share (2)

$ 0.99

$ 0.70

41 %

$ 1.16

(15) %

(1)

Represents the portion of selling and marketing expense attributable to variable costs paid for advertising, direct marketing and related expenses. Excludes overhead, fixed costs and personnel-related expenses.

(2)

Variable marketing expense, variable marketing margin, variable marketing margin % of revenue, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA % of revenue, adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share are non-GAAP measures. Please see “LendingTree’s Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to GAAP” and “LendingTree’s Principles of Financial Reporting” below for more information.

LendingTree Segment Results

(In millions)

Three Months Ended

March 31,

Y/Y

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Q/Q

2025

2024

% Change

2024

% Change

Home (1)

Revenue

$ 37.0

$ 30.4

22 %

$ 34.0

9 %

Segment profit

$ 13.1

$ 9.6

36 %

$ 11.7

12 %

Segment profit % of revenue

35 %

32 %

34 %

Consumer (2)

Revenue

$ 56.0

$ 51.5

9 %

$ 55.6

1 %

Segment profit

$ 27.1

$ 27.4

(1) %

$ 28.2

(4) %

Segment profit % of revenue

48 %

53 %

51 %

Insurance (3)

Revenue

$ 146.7

$ 85.9

71 %

$ 171.7

(15) %

Segment profit

$ 38.7

$ 33.4

16 %

$ 48.0

(19) %

Segment profit % of revenue

26 %

39 %

28 %

Other (4)

Revenue

$ —

— %

$ 0.2

(100) %

Profit (loss)

$ —

— %

$ —

— %

Total revenue

$ 239.7

$ 167.8

43 %

$ 261.5

(8) %

Total segment profit

$ 79.0

$ 70.5

12 %

$ 87.9

(10) %

Brand marketing expense (5)

$ (1.3)

$ (1.1)

18 %

$ (1.2)

8 %

Variable marketing margin

$ 77.7

$ 69.4

12 %

$ 86.7

(10) %

Variable marketing margin % of revenue

32 %

41 %

33 %

(1)

The Home segment includes the following products: purchase mortgage, refinance mortgage, and home equity loans.

(2)

The Consumer segment includes the following products: credit cards, personal loans, small business loans, student loans, auto loans, deposit accounts, and debt settlement. We ceased offering the student loan product in Q1 2025.

(3)

The Insurance segment consists of insurance quote products and sales of insurance policies.

(4)

The Other category primarily includes marketing revenue and related expenses not allocated to a specific segment.

(5)

Brand marketing expense represents the portion of selling and marketing expense attributable to variable costs paid for advertising, direct marketing and related expenses that are not assignable to the segments’ products. This measure excludes overhead, fixed costs and personnel-related expenses.

Financial Outlook*

Today we are updating our full-year 2025 outlook and introducing our outlook for the second-quarter.

Full-year 2025:

Revenue of $955 – $995 million compared to the prior range of $985 – $1,025 millionVariable Marketing Margin of $319 – $332 million compared to $319 – $336 million previouslyAdjusted EBITDA of $116 – $124 million versus the $116 – $126 million prior range

Second-quarter 2025:

Revenue: $241 – $248 millionVariable Marketing Margin: $80 – $84 millionAdjusted EBITDA: $29 – $31 million

*LendingTree is not able to provide a reconciliation of projected variable marketing margin or adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable expected GAAP results due to the unknown effect, timing and potential significance of the effects of legal matters and tax considerations. Expenses associated with legal matters and tax considerations have in the past, and may in the future, significantly affect GAAP results in a particular period.

Quarterly Conference Call

A conference call to discuss LendingTree’s first quarter 2025 financial results will be webcast live today, May 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET). The live audiocast is open to the public and will be available on LendingTree’s investor relations website at investors.lendingtree.com. Following completion of the call, a recorded replay of the webcast will be available on the website.

LENDINGTREE’S RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES TO GAAP

Variable Marketing Expense

Below is a reconciliation of selling and marketing expense, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to variable marketing expense. See “LendingTree’s Principles of Financial Reporting” for further discussion of the Company’s use of this non-GAAP measure.

Three Months Ended

March 31,
2025

December 31,
2024

March 31,
2024

(in thousands)

Selling and marketing expense

$ 172,751

$ 185,858

$ 108,176

Non-variable selling and marketing expense (1)

(10,750)

(11,084)

(9,855)

Variable marketing expense

$ 162,001

$ 174,774

$ 98,321

(1)

Represents the portion of selling and marketing expense not attributable to variable costs paid for advertising, direct marketing and related expenses. Includes overhead, fixed costs and personnel-related expenses.

LENDINGTREE’S RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES TO GAAP

Variable Marketing Margin

Below is a reconciliation of net (loss) income, the most directly comparable table GAAP measure, to variable marketing margin and net (loss) income % of revenue to variable marketing margin % of revenue. See “LendingTree’s Principles of Financial Reporting” for further discussion of the Company’s use of these non-GAAP measures.

Three Months Ended

March 31,
2025

December 31,
2024

March 31,
2024

(in thousands, except percentages)

Net (loss) income

$ (12,375)

$ 7,506

$ 1,016

Net (loss) income % of revenue

(5) %

3 %

1 %

Adjustments to reconcile to variable marketing margin:

Cost of revenue

9,908

9,744

8,545

Non-variable selling and marketing expense (1)

10,750

11,084

9,855

General and administrative expense

30,660

29,111

25,796

Product development

11,904

12,937

11,857

Depreciation

4,297

4,448

4,667

Amortization of intangibles

1,307

1,467

1,489

Restructuring and severance

798

Litigation settlements and contingencies

15,212

Interest expense, net

9,084

9,950

6,638

Other income

(1,388)

(1,143)

(1,034)

Income tax (benefit) expense

(2,430)

1,628

559

Variable marketing margin

$ 77,727

$ 86,748

$ 69,447

Variable marketing margin % of revenue

32 %

33 %

41 %

(1)

LENDINGTREE’S RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES TO GAAP

Adjusted EBITDA

Below is a reconciliation of net (loss) income, the most directly comparable table GAAP measure, to adjusted EBITDA and net (loss) income % of revenue to adjusted EBITDA % of revenue. See “LendingTree’s Principles of Financial Reporting” for further discussion of the Company’s use of these non-GAAP measures.

Three Months Ended

March 31,
2025

December 31,
2024

March 31,
2024

(in thousands, except percentages)

Net (loss) income

$ (12,375)

$ 7,506

$ 1,016

Net (loss) income % of revenue

(5) %

3 %

1 %

Adjustments to reconcile to adjusted EBITDA:

Amortization of intangibles

1,307

1,467

1,489

Depreciation

4,297

4,448

4,667

Restructuring and severance

798

Loss on impairments and disposal of assets

254

1,797

368

Non-cash compensation

9,867

6,494

7,789

Litigation settlements and contingencies

15,212

Interest expense, net

9,084

9,950

6,638

Dividend income

(1,388)

(1,144)

(1,034)

Income tax (benefit) expense

(2,430)

1,628

559

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 24,626

$ 32,162

$ 21,551

Adjusted EBITDA % of revenue

10 %

12 %

13 %

LENDINGTREE’S RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES TO GAAP

Adjusted Net Income

Below is a reconciliation of net (loss) income, the most directly comparable table GAAP measure, to adjusted net income and net (loss) income per diluted share to adjusted net income per share. See “LendingTree’s Principles of Financial Reporting” for further discussion of the Company’s use of these non-GAAP measures.

Three Months Ended

March 31,
2025

December 31,
2024

March 31,
2024

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

Net (loss) income

$ (12,375)

$ 7,506

$ 1,016

Adjustments to reconcile to adjusted net income:

Restructuring and severance

798

Loss on impairments and disposal of assets

254

1,797

368

Non-cash compensation

9,867

6,494

7,789

Litigation settlements and contingencies

15,212

Gain on extinguishment of debt

(266)

—

Adjusted net income

$ 13,490

$ 15,813

$ 9,232

Net (loss) income per diluted share

$ (0.92)

$ 0.55

$ 0.08

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to adjusted net income

1.92

0.61

0.62

Adjustments to reconcile effect of dilutive securities

(0.01)

—

Adjusted net income per share

$ 0.99

$ 1.16

$ 0.70

Adjusted weighted average diluted shares outstanding

13,686

13,591

13,276

Effect of dilutive securities

245

—

Weighted average diluted shares outstanding

13,441

13,591

13,276

Effect of dilutive securities

—

224

176

Weighted average basic shares outstanding

13,441

13,367

13,100

LENDINGTREE’S PRINCIPLES OF FINANCIAL REPORTING

LendingTree reports the following non-GAAP measures as supplemental to GAAP:

Variable marketing expenseVariable marketing marginVariable marketing margin % of revenueEarnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization, as adjusted for certain items discussed below (“Adjusted EBITDA”)Adjusted EBITDA % of revenueAdjusted net incomeAdjusted net income per share

Variable marketing expense, variable marketing margin and variable marketing margin % of revenue are related measures of the effectiveness of the Company’s marketing efforts. Variable marketing expense represents the portion of selling and marketing expense attributable to variable costs paid for advertising, direct marketing, and related expenses, and excludes overhead, fixed costs, and personnel-related expenses. Variable marketing margin is a measure of the efficiency of the Company’s operating model, measuring revenue after subtracting variable marketing expense. The Company’s operating model is highly sensitive to the amount and efficiency of variable marketing expenditures, and the Company’s proprietary systems are able to make rapidly changing decisions concerning the deployment of variable marketing expenditures (primarily but not exclusively online and mobile advertising placement) based on proprietary and sophisticated analytics.

Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA % of revenue are primary metrics by which LendingTree evaluates the operating performance of its businesses, on which its marketing expenditures and internal budgets are based and, in the case of adjusted EBITDA, by which management and many employees are compensated in most years.

Adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share supplement GAAP net income and GAAP net income per diluted share by enabling investors to make period to period comparisons of those components of the most directly comparable GAAP measures that management believes better reflect the underlying financial performance of the Company’s business operations during particular financial reporting periods. Adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share exclude certain amounts, such as non-cash compensation, non-cash asset impairment charges, gain/loss on disposal of assets, gain/loss on investments, restructuring and severance, litigation settlements and contingencies, acquisition and disposition income or expenses including with respect to changes in fair value of contingent consideration, gain/loss on extinguishment of debt, contributions to the LendingTree Foundation, one-time items which are recognized and recorded under GAAP in particular periods but which might be viewed as not necessarily coinciding with the underlying business operations for the periods in which they are so recognized and recorded, the effects to income taxes of the aforementioned adjustments, any excess tax benefit or expense associated with stock-based compensation recorded in net income in conjunction with FASB pronouncement ASU 2016-09, and income tax (benefit) expense from a full valuation allowance. LendingTree believes that adjusted net income and adjusted net income per share are useful financial indicators that provide a different view of the financial performance of the Company than adjusted EBITDA (the primary metric by which LendingTree evaluates the operating performance of its businesses) and the GAAP measures of net income and GAAP net income per diluted share.

These non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with GAAP, but should not be considered a substitute for or superior to GAAP results. LendingTree provides and encourages investors to examine the reconciling adjustments between the GAAP and non-GAAP measures set forth above.

Definition of LendingTree’s Non-GAAP Measures

Variable marketing margin is defined as revenue less variable marketing expense. Variable marketing expense is defined as the expense attributable to variable costs paid for advertising, direct marketing and related expenses, and excluding overhead, fixed costs and personnel-related expenses. The majority of these variable advertising costs are expressly intended to drive traffic to our websites and these variable advertising costs are included in selling and marketing expense on the Company’s consolidated statements of operations and consolidated income.

EBITDA is defined as net income excluding interest, income taxes, amortization of intangibles and depreciation.

Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA excluding (1) non-cash compensation expense, (2) non-cash impairment charges, (3) gain/loss on disposal of assets, (4) gain/loss on investments, (5) restructuring and severance expenses, (6) litigation settlements and contingencies, (7) acquisitions and dispositions income or expense (including with respect to changes in fair value of contingent consideration), (8) contributions to the LendingTree Foundation (9) dividend income, and (10) one-time items.

Adjusted net income is defined as net (loss) income excluding (1) non-cash compensation expense, (2) non-cash impairment charges, (3) gain/loss on disposal of assets, (4) gain/loss on investments, (5) restructuring and severance expenses, (6) litigation settlements and contingencies, (7) acquisitions and dispositions income or expense (including with respect to changes in fair value of contingent consideration), (8) gain/loss on extinguishment of debt, (9) contributions to the LendingTree Foundation, (10) one-time items, (11) the effects to income taxes of the aforementioned adjustments, (12) any excess tax benefit or expense associated with stock-based compensation recorded in net income in conjunction with FASB pronouncement ASU 2016-09, and (13) income tax (benefit) expense from a full valuation allowance.

Adjusted net income per share is defined as adjusted net income divided by the adjusted weighted average diluted shares outstanding. For periods which the Company reports GAAP loss, the effects of potentially dilutive securities are excluded from the calculation of net loss per diluted share because their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive. In periods where the Company reports GAAP loss but reports positive non-GAAP adjusted net income, the effects of potentially dilutive securities are included in the denominator for calculating adjusted net income per share if their inclusion would be dilutive.

LendingTree endeavors to compensate for the limitations of these non-GAAP measures by also providing the comparable GAAP measures with equal or greater prominence and descriptions of the reconciling items, including quantifying such items, to derive the non-GAAP measures. These non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies.

One-Time Items

Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income are adjusted for one-time items, if applicable. Items are considered one-time in nature if they are non-recurring, infrequent or unusual, and have not occurred in the past two years or are not expected to recur in the next two years, in accordance with SEC rules. For the periods presented in this report, there are no adjustments for one-time items.

Non-Cash Expenses That Are Excluded From LendingTree’s Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income

Non-cash compensation expense consists principally of expense associated with the grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and stock options. These expenses are not paid in cash and LendingTree includes the related shares in its calculations of fully diluted shares outstanding. Upon settlement of restricted stock units, exercise of certain stock options or vesting of restricted stock awards, the awards may be settled on a net basis, with LendingTree remitting the required tax withholding amounts from its current funds. Cash expenditures for employer payroll taxes on non-cash compensation are included within adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income.

Amortization of intangibles are non-cash expenses relating primarily to acquisitions. At the time of an acquisition, the intangible assets of the acquired company, such as purchase agreements, technology and customer relationships, are valued and amortized over their estimated lives. Amortization of intangibles are only excluded from adjusted EBITDA.

Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

The matters contained in the discussion above may be considered to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations or anticipations of LendingTree and members of our management team. Factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the following: adverse conditions in the primary and secondary mortgage markets and in the economy, particularly interest rates and inflation; default rates on loans, particularly unsecured loans; demand by investors for unsecured personal loans; the effect of such demand on interest rates for personal loans and consumer demand for personal loans; seasonality of results; potential liabilities to secondary market purchasers; changes in the Company’s relationships with network partners, including dependence on certain key network partners; breaches of network security or the misappropriation or misuse of personal consumer information; failure to provide competitive service; failure to maintain brand recognition; ability to attract and retain consumers in a cost-effective manner; the effects of potential acquisitions of other businesses, including the ability to integrate them successfully with LendingTree’s existing operations; accounting rules related to excess tax benefits or expenses on stock-based compensation that could materially affect earnings in future periods; ability to develop new products and services and enhance existing ones; competition; effects of changing laws, rules or regulations on our business model; allegations of failure to comply with existing or changing laws, rules or regulations, or to obtain and maintain required licenses; failure of network partners or other affiliated parties to comply with regulatory requirements; failure to maintain the integrity of systems and infrastructure; liabilities as a result of privacy regulations; failure to adequately protect intellectual property rights or allegations of infringement of intellectual property rights; and changes in management. These and additional factors to be considered are set forth under “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2024, and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. LendingTree undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results or expectations.

About LendingTree, Inc.

LendingTree, Inc. is the parent of LendingTree, LLC and several companies owned by LendingTree, LLC (collectively, “LendingTree” or the “Company”).

LendingTree is one of the nation’s largest, most experienced online financial platforms, created to give consumers the power to win financially. LendingTree provides customers with access to the best offers on loans, credit cards, insurance and more through its network of over 430 financial partners. Since its founding, LendingTree has helped millions of customers obtain financing, save money, and improve their financial and credit health in their personal journeys. With a portfolio of innovative products and tools and personalized financial recommendations, LendingTree helps customers achieve everyday financial wins.

LendingTree, Inc. is headquartered in Charlotte, NC. For more information, please visit www.lendingtree.com.

Investor Relations Contact:
investors@lendingtree.com

Media Contact:
press@lendingtree.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lendingtree-reports-first-quarter-2025-results-302444481.html

SOURCE LendingTree, Inc.

Technology

AI-Powered Connectivity: APAC Charts a Path to a Smarter Digital Future

Published

4 hours ago

July 18, 2026

Asia-Pacific’s first Broadband Development Summit brings regulators and operators to Bangkok to set the agenda

BANGKOK, July 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Government officials, standards bodies and telecom operators gathered in Bangkok on 14 July for the inaugural Broadband Development Summit APAC 2026, convened by the World Broadband Association (WBBA) to build consensus on AI-era networks.

Participants included the ITU, Thailand’s National Board of the Digital Economy and Society, WBBA, IAB, FNCAP, WAA, NIDA and the IPv6 Council, alongside operators Telkomsel, XLSmart, Surge, Globe, AIS, CMI and HKT and Huawei.

Denny Deng, President of Huawei Asia Pacific Carrier Business, envisions a “faster, smarter, greener” Asia-Pacific.

VOICES FROM THE SUMMIT

“To seize the opportunities of the AI era, we call on the industry to accelerate broadband evolution, advance computing-network synergy, and strengthen the cross-border connectivity. Together, let us build faster, smarter, and greener digital infrastructure for Asia-Pacific.”
— Denny Deng, President of Asia Pacific Carrier Business, Huawei

“High-speed broadband is no longer just about ‘getting online’ — it is the vital infrastructure upon which the entire AI revolution is being built. We view AI not merely as a tool, but as a primary engine for national competitiveness and a catalyst for improving the quality of life for all.”
— Wetang Phuangsup, Ph.D., Secretary-General, the National Board of the Digital Economy and Society, Thailand

“Three initiatives define the road to 2030. We must close the quality divide so the value of broadband reaches everyone. We must build AI-ready networks — 10G access, 800GE cores, intelligence end to end. And we must do it together, through shared standards.”
— Martin Creaner, Director General of WBBA

“Moving towards next-generation networks, network architectures must continue to evolve to deliver broader connectivity, superior quality, enhanced security, and greater intelligence. This evolution is essential for Net5.5G, positioning the network not simply as infrastructure, but as the foundation that enables AI, strengthens resilience and efficiency, and supports digital transformation across industries.”
— Dhruv Dhody, Industry Standardization Expert at Huawei, Chair of the IAB, IETF

“Across Asia-Pacific, fibre is extending beyond homes and offices into rooms, devices, and machines. By working together, we can accelerate fibre innovation and adoption to build truly AI-ready infrastructure.”
— Ilham Nandana, Chair of the Market Intelligence Committee, Fiber Network Council APAC (FNCAP)

“We fixed it before you feel it! AIS is redefining premium home broadband by combining ultra-fast connectivity with AI-driven network intelligence and smart home ecosystem — delivering proactive, invisible service excellence that transforms connectivity into differentiated customer value and sustainable ARPU growth.”
— Thanit Chaiyaboonthanit, Head of Technology Department, Broadband Business, AIS

“Connecting the Unconnected: Affordable Broadband at Scale. Create equal access to global information and empower Indonesia’s digital society.”
— Shannedy Ong, CTO of Surge Indonesia

“Beyond Connectivity: Telkomsel is transforming into a true value creator. By leveraging our FBB market-leading footprint, we power growth through service excellence, customer loyalty, and a next-generation home ecosystem.”
— Stanislaus Susatyo, Director of Sales, Telkomsel Indonesia

“We stopped treating AI as an add-on feature. Instead, our approach at Globe starts with architecture, embedding intelligence into the very core of how we build, how we sell, and how we operate.
AI continuously monitors network health, customer behavior and service quality. Rather than waiting for failures, the system predicts degradation and initiates corrective actions. By maintaining minute-level awareness of network health, our systems automatically resolve 30% of all Wi-Fi issues without any human intervention.”
— Danny Theseira, Head of Broadband Business Group at Globe Telecom

“Huawei is driving the Optics-AI Synergy to foster their collaborative growth. Through AI-ON, operators could build an AI-centric all-optical target network and establish 1-5-20ms latency circles across the Asia Pacific region. AI-ON also supports efficient computing access and usage while delivering an ultimate network experience through gigabit/ultra-gigabit home broadband, accelerating the widespread adoption of AI services.”
— Kim Jin, Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer Optical Business Product Line, Huawei

“Connectivity is not just about technology. It is a lifeline, a platform for opportunity, and a driver of sustainable development. I believe the intersection of connectivity and artificial intelligence will shape the future of smarter, more resilient networks.”
— Dr. Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau, ITU

“Performance and user experience are the essential path to the next-generation WLAN. Based on standards and AI-driven innovation, let’s jointly explore the path to the future autonomous WLAN with all the stakeholders.”
— Dr. Crane H. Yang, Secretary-General, World WLAN Application Alliance (WAA)

“At the summit, NIDA and WBBA signed an MOU to accelerate next-generation network evolution and establish pioneering smart city benchmarks through the co-development of industry standards, the harmonization of global regulations, and the sharing of vertical industry insights.
NIDA focuses on advancing network architecture standards, while WBBA drives global consensus on broadband evolution. This natural strategic complementarity creates vast opportunities for future collaboration.”
— Joey Deng, Secretary-General of NIDA

“ION-2030 develops the global standard for next generation optical networks in the AI era. It provides exceptional AI application and service experience. The WBBA and ITU will jointly accelerate its development, and this is a unique opportunity for Asia-Pacific stakeholders to actively influence the future of optical broadband networks.”
— Dr. Marcus Brunner, Chief Expert Standardization, WBBA WG1 Chair and Vice-Chair of ETSI ISG F5G

“The transition into the AI era demands a high-quality, deterministic digital foundation. By releasing Net5.5G policy guidelines, Malaysia is accelerating the evolution of next-generation network standards based on IPv6, establishing an innovative infrastructure to unleash AI’s value and drive a prosperous digital economy for 2030.”
— Prof. Sureswaran Ramadass, Chair of APAC at IPv6 Council, Industry Partner of WBBA

“The digital economy is thriving across the Asia-Pacific region, with AI emerging as a core catalyst for intelligent transformation. China Mobile International (CMI) is driving regional growth by integrating China’s advanced AI capabilities with comprehensive communications, computing, and AI services. Moving forward, CMI will collaborate closely with industry partners to foster a shared, AI-driven future for the region.”
— Paul Lin, Managing Director of Commercial and Technology, Asia Pacific, China Mobile International

“Next-generation network infrastructure is the oxygen of the intelligent economy. By integrating cutting-edge 800G connectivity with quantum-safe security, HKT is laying the essential foundations to keep Hong Kong’s enterprises highly competitive, secure, and ready for the computing paradigm shifts of tomorrow.”
— Wilson Cheung, Vice President, Broadband Design & Cyber Security, HKT

“The evolution toward Net5.5G AI WAN is an important step in strengthening XLSMART’s transport network for the future. By progressively adopting AI-assisted operations, SRv6, SDN, service differentiation, and higher-capacity transport infrastructure, we are enhancing network intelligence, operational efficiency, and service resilience while supporting long-term sustainability. This transformation is a continuous journey that aligns with the industry’s vision of AI-native broadband networks. Through collaboration with our technology partners and the broader ecosystem, we will continue to develop capabilities that deliver better network performance and support Indonesia’s growing digital connectivity needs.”
— Regie Ginanjar, Head of Transport Autonomy & Orchestration, Transport Network Transformation, XLSMART

“For the AI era, Huawei upgrades the IP bearer network via security resilience, multi-dimensional awareness, and network autonomy. This empowers carriers to guarantee service experience, accelerate monetization, and enhance efficiency, ushering in a new chapter of intelligent connectivity.”
— Arthur Wang, Vice President of Data Communication Product Line, Huawei

A CONVERGING VIEW

Speakers agreed AI is shifting networks from connectivity to intelligent connectivity, as broadband, IP, computing and cross-border infrastructure converge to support innovation and coordination.

WBBA launched the AI-Net Certification, a global benchmark for national policy, industrial ecosystems and network intelligence. XLSmart was named first AI-Net Champion, and Indonesia was among the first with a certified operator, backed by its Net5.5G roadmap.

In another high-profile segment, WBBA Director General Martin Creaner presented the Gigacity Certification to KOMDIGI, SURGE, Telkomsel, AIS, TRUE, HKT and Globe, recognizing regional broadband pioneers.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/ai-powered-connectivity-apac-charts-a-path-to-a-smarter-digital-future-302829032.html

SOURCE HUAWEI

Technology

Laifen Expands U.S. Retail Footprint with Costco Launch of Best-Selling SE Hair Dryer

Published

5 hours ago

July 18, 2026

Starting July 18, Costco Members Can Shop Laifen’s Award-Winning Hair Dryer in Select Warehouse Locations Across the U.S.

NEW YORK, July 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Laifen, ranked the world’s No.1 high-speed hair dryer brand, today announced the launch of its best-selling SE High-Speed Hair Dryer at select Costco warehouse locations, marking the brand’s largest U.S. retail expansion to date and bringing its award-winning haircare technology to Costco members across select U.S. markets.

The launch brings Laifen’s award-winning haircare technology to Costco, making it easier for consumers to experience the brand through one of the nation’s leading membership retailers. Laifen joins Costco’s growing portfolio of premium beauty and personal care brands. The initial rollout includes select Costco warehouse locations across the United States, with a strong presence across the Western U.S., including California, the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest.

Costco’s reputation for quality and its highly selective merchandising approach make this partnership especially meaningful. The Costco launch reflects Laifen’s continued expansion beyond direct-to-consumer channels as the brand accelerates its U.S. omnichannel retail strategy. “Costco represents an important milestone in our U.S. retail strategy,” said Romeo, General Manager of International Business of Laifen. “As more consumers seek salon-quality performance at an accessible price, we’re excited to make Laifen available through one of America’s most trusted retailers.”

Engineered to deliver professional-level performance in a sleek, lightweight design, the Laifen SE is powered by the brand’s proprietary high-speed brushless motor, delivering fast drying, reduced heat damage and smoother styling. An intelligent temperature control system continuously monitors airflow to help minimize frizz while protecting hair from excessive heat.

The Costco launch represents the next phase of Laifen’s U.S. retail expansion as the brand continues to grow beyond its direct-to-consumer and online channels. By expanding into one of the nation’s most trusted retailers, Laifen aims to broaden access to its category-disrupting haircare solutions while advancing its mission to bring more thoughtful design and everyday excellence into more homes.

The Laifen SE High-Speed Hair Dryer in White will be available at select Costco locations, while Costco.com shoppers will have access to additional color options including Purple and Pink, alongside the White model.

For more information on Laifen, please visit LaifenTech.com.

About Laifen:

Founded in 2019, Laifen is a global personal care technology brand combining high-performance engineering with modern design across hair care, oral care, and grooming categories. Ranked the world’s No. 1 high-speed hair dryer brand by Euromonitor International, Laifen first gained recognition for its self-developed 110,000 RPM high-speed brushless motor, the proprietary technology behind its award-winning hair dryers.

Building on this innovation, Laifen has expanded its portfolio to include electric toothbrushes and shavers, delivering premium technology and elevated everyday experiences to consumers worldwide. Today, Laifen products and accessories are used by over 22 million households across more than 60 countries, supported by more than 600 patents and recognized with over 50 international design and innovation awards. Driven by continuous technological breakthroughs, Laifen is committed to making cutting-edge personal care technology more accessible to consumers around the world.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/laifen-expands-us-retail-footprint-with-costco-launch-of-best-selling-se-hair-dryer-302828573.html

SOURCE Laifen

Technology

Pillsbury Notice of Data Breach

Published

8 hours ago

July 18, 2026

NEW YORK, July 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP (“Pillsbury”) was among many law firms targeted by sophisticated social engineering attempts in an incident last year. While the firm quickly detected and blocked the activity, an unauthorized actor was able to access some of the firm’s documents during a short window of time. Pillsbury notified any impacted clients last year and undertook a detailed process to review the accessed documents for personal information. Pillsbury then began notifying individuals whose personal information was affected. That process is now complete, and today, Pillsbury is publishing substitute notice as a final step.

For more information, please visit the substitute notice on our website at https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/breach-notice.html.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pillsbury-notice-of-data-breach-302828892.html

SOURCE Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP