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Squads Raises $18M to Build Business Finance on Stablecoin Infrastructure

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NEW YORK, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Squads today announced an $18 million strategic round led by Solana Ventures, with participation from Coinbase Ventures, Haun Ventures, L1D, Collab+Currency, Electric Capital, Placeholder, Jump Crypto, and Robot Ventures, bringing total funding to $42.9M. This raise accelerates Altitude, a financial operating system built on stablecoin infrastructure.

Stablecoins are changing the infrastructure of business finance. For the last decade, building financial products for businesses meant building on top of banks – bank partnerships were required to hold customer funds and access payment rails. Every new market meant a new bank and a new compliance cycle. Blockchains changed the underlying infrastructure. Stablecoins turned money into software, allowing treasury and payments to be separated from the fractional reserve system for the first time.

This separation has produced a new category of licensed Payment Service Providers (PSPs) that move money across both stablecoin and traditional banking rails. The market has moved quickly: Stripe acquired Bridge for $1.1 billion, Mastercard acquired BVNK for $1.8 billion. These PSPs were the missing piece to build a full-stack financial operations platform on stablecoin rails.

Altitude is built on this shift. It does not hold customer funds. Treasury is held in stablecoins. When funds need to move, they settle on stablecoin rails instantly, 24/7, at low cost. When they need to reach traditional banking rails, they do so through a network of licensed stablecoin PSPs.

Since publicly launching in December 2025, Altitude has processed over $200 million in payments for exporters, global agencies, crypto-native companies, and cross-border remote teams. Customers choose Altitude for what stablecoin infrastructure unlocks: global-by-default coverage, multi-currency support, instant settlement, and programmable controls. With $18M in new funding, Altitude is growing its team, expanding its payment network, and accelerating product development.

“This raise backs a simple idea: businesses are better off running on stablecoins than on legacy banking infrastructure. Solana is now mature enough to carry global business finance, regulators have built the frameworks to support it, and for the first time you can build a full financial platform on a genuinely new system,” said Stepan Simkin, CEO of Squads.

“The Squads team spent the last four years building the security infrastructure that most of the Solana ecosystem runs on. Stablecoins and programmable blockchains are changing how global finance works. This is the team with the technical depth and the vision to build the financial platform that sits on top of that shift. We believe Altitude will be how the next generation of global businesses runs their financial operations,” said Matthew Beck, Head of Solana Ventures.

Two criticisms have historically limited stablecoin adoption in mainstream business finance: compliance gaps and security concerns. Altitude addresses both directly.

On compliance, Altitude has built a proprietary engine that imposes the same checks expected from any regulated fintech: continuous sanctions screening, AML checks, transaction monitoring, and KYB verification. This engine enables every Altitude account to plug into licensed PSPs including Bridge, MoonPay, Infinite, Due, and others for global coverage.

On security, Altitude enforces controls at each layer of the stack. At the product layer, every business account comes with programmable controls, granular permissions, and configurable multifactor authentication. At the infrastructure layer, Squads Protocol handles asset custody and money movement, securing over $10 billion in value. At the settlement layer, every transaction is recorded and settled on Solana.

“As we scaled, treasury and payments turned into an operational headache. Complexity and fees kept compounding. Altitude removed both,” said Kash Dhanda, COO, Jupiter.

About Squads

Squads is a financial infrastructure company building on Solana. The company operates two products: Squads Multisig, the smart account standard securing over $10 billion in assets across the Solana ecosystem, and Altitude, a financial operating system that gives businesses multi-currency accounts, corporate cards, global payments, APY on balances, and a CFO stack to run it all. Learn more at altitude.xyz or squads.xyz.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/squads-raises-18m-to-build-business-finance-on-stablecoin-infrastructure-302757566.html

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HelloNation Discusses How Often to Schedule HVAC Service, Featuring HVAC Expert Jason Bare

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The article outlines a twice-yearly maintenance schedule to support system efficiency and year-round comfort.

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How often should you service your HVAC system to keep it running efficiently year-round? HelloNation has published the answer in an article featuring insights from Jason Bare of Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc. in Mount Airy, NC.

The HelloNation article explains that most homeowners in Mount Airy should schedule HVAC service twice a year. Spring appointments focus on cooling systems, while fall visits prepare heating equipment for colder months. This consistent approach to HVAC maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and extend equipment life.

Spring is the recommended time for an air conditioning tune-up. During an air conditioning tune-up, an HVAC technician inspects components, cleans coils, checks refrigerant levels, and confirms proper airflow. Addressing small concerns before summer improves system efficiency and reduces the risk of costly repairs during peak heat.

Proper HVAC service in the spring also supports indoor comfort. When coils are clean and refrigerant levels are correct, cooling systems operate more effectively. This attention to detail enhances system efficiency and helps maintain steady indoor temperatures throughout humid summer months in Mount Airy.

Fall HVAC service shifts attention to heating systems. An HVAC technician inspects furnaces or heat pumps, tests safety controls, and examines electrical components. Regular HVAC maintenance in the fall ensures safe and reliable heating during colder weather.

Filters are another essential part of HVAC maintenance. Homeowners should check filters monthly and replace them as needed between professional visits. Clean filters improve airflow, protect equipment, and contribute to better system efficiency year-round.

Ductwork inspections are also included in routine HVAC service. Leaky or obstructed ducts can reduce system efficiency and create uneven heating or cooling. During scheduled visits, an HVAC technician evaluates airflow and addresses minor issues before they worsen.

Electrical components require close attention during HVAC maintenance. Wiring, relays, and capacitors are inspected to prevent failures and safety hazards. In Mount Airy, seasonal humidity can accelerate wear, making biannual HVAC service especially important for reliable operation.

Refrigerant levels are carefully evaluated during each air conditioning tune-up. Low refrigerant can strain the compressor and reduce cooling performance. By identifying and correcting these issues early, HVAC service protects system efficiency and extends equipment lifespan.

Energy savings are another benefit of routine HVAC maintenance. Well-maintained systems operate more efficiently, reducing monthly utility costs. In Mount Airy, where summers are humid and winters can be chilly, consistent system efficiency supports comfort in every season.

The HelloNation article concludes that scheduling HVAC service twice a year is the most effective way to maintain reliable performance. With regular air conditioning tune-up visits, professional HVAC maintenance, and support from a qualified HVAC technician, homeowners in Mount Airy can ensure long-term system efficiency and dependable comfort.

How Often Should You Service Your HVAC System? features insights from Jason Bare, HVAC Expert of Mount Airy, NC, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hellonation-discusses-how-often-to-schedule-hvac-service-featuring-hvac-expert-jason-bare-302805502.html

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telMAX Announces Multi-Year Partnership with Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham

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A high-performance partnership uniting Canada’s fastest internet provider with one of the world’s fastest motorsports festivals

MARKHAM, ON, June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – Today telMAX, Canada’s leading provider of 100% Pure Fibre Internet, announced a new multi-year partnership as the official internet partner of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham. The partnership was unveiled this morning at a reception held at telMAX’s Markham Head Office, attended by Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, City dignitaries, community business leaders, and Indy officials.

Speed isn’t a feature for telMAX — it’s a promise. As Canada’s fastest internet provider, recognized by PCMag for four consecutive years, telMAX operates at a different level: relentless speed, uncompromising precision, and performance built to last. This event runs on the same principle.

Where race cars push the limits of engineering at every turn, telMAX’s 100% Pure Fibre network pushes the limits of connectivity — delivering blazing speeds, zero-compromise reliability, and the kind of consistent performance that homes and businesses depend on when it counts most. From the starting grid to the finish line, both brands know that performance isn’t a moment, it’s a commitment.

“This partnership, as the official internet sponsor, is a natural fit for telMAX,” said Michael Strople, Chief Executive Officer of telMAX. “Motorsport is built on speed, precision, and relentless performance — the same qualities engineered into every kilometre of our fibre network. As we accelerate our expansion across the GTA and Ontario, this partnership gives us a powerful platform to demonstrate what world-class internet truly looks like.”

As official internet partner, telMAX will align its brand with one of the region’s most exciting sporting events, leveraging the energy, speed, and visibility of the race to build awareness of its fibre services as the company continues to expand.

“We’re thrilled to welcome telMAX as a valued partner,” said Jeff Atkinson, president of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham. “Their commitment to speed, innovation, and reliability aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Indy. Having telMAX join us as official internet partner strengthens the event experience and adds another respected, performance-driven brand to our roster.”

Markham’s Mayor, Frank Scarpitti added, “Markham is excited to host an event that celebrates innovation, energy, and excellence. We’re proud of Markham’s telMAX connected with the Indy race as their official Internet Partner. Their commitment to the City of Markham to provide fast and reliable internet now extends to our premier sporting event, creating success for our community and ensuring the Indy race stays connected too.”

telMAX’s partnership isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a declaration. World-class racing deserves world-class internet. Markham now has both.

About telMAX

telMAX, a locally based company headquartered in the Greater Toronto Area, offering 100% fibre internet, TV, and phone services to residential and business customers. Known for delivering Canada’s fastest internet and industry-leading performance, telMAX designs, builds, and operates its own end-to-end fibre-to-the-home network engineered for speed, low latency, and reliability. With ongoing expansion, telMAX serves communities including Barrie, Brooklin, Stouffville, Newmarket, Aurora, Markham, Oakville, and Richmond Hill, while proudly supporting local employment and community development. telMAX – fibre built for AI. telMAX.com

About Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is a world-class motorsports festival which takes place annually on a new 12-turn, 3.52-kilometre (2.19-mile) temporary circuit in the Greater Toronto Area using the downtown streets of Markham, Ontario. The event features many attractions, food trucks, interactive displays and activities, and supports local charities. Your Ontario Honda Dealers Present Free Fan Friday, offers general admission courtesy of the Ontario Honda Dealers Association through a voluntary donation to Make-A-Wish Canada raising over $1.1 million from the event since 2010. As one of Ontario’s largest annual sporting events, the first Ontario Indy street race was held in 1986 in downtown Toronto. Now located in York Region, the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is the sole Canadian race for some of the world’s fastest race car drivers from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, like Alex Palou, Josef Newgarden, Pato O’Ward and Kyle Kirkwood and features teams including Chip Ganassi Racing, Team Penske, Arrow McLaren and Andretti Global, respectively. This event has also historically hosted Canadian racing legends like Scott Goodyear, James Hinchcliffe, Greg Moore, Alex Tagliani, Paul Tracy, Jacques Villeneuve, Robert Wickens and more. Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is owned and operated by Green Savoree Toronto, ULC, whose affiliates also promote three additional INDYCAR SERIES races: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Feb. Hybrid (1, 2026), The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Presented by the 2027 CR-V Hybrid  (July 3-5, 2026) and OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (Aug. 7-9, 2026). For more information, visit hondaindy.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page at @OntarioIndy or follow the event on X at @Ontario_Indy and Instagram at @OntarioIndy using #indyON.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/telmax-announces-multi-year-partnership-with-ontario-honda-dealers-indy-at-markham-302805509.html

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Laifen Announces Prime Day Savings on Award-Winning Hair, Oral Care and Grooming Innovations

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Consumers can shop major discounts on viral hair dryers, electric toothbrushes, electric shavers and more during Amazon’s biggest shopping event of the year.

NEW YORK, June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Laifen, the award-winning personal care technology brand known for combining high-performance engineering with modern design, today announced its Amazon Prime Day sale, offering shoppers up to 40% off select best-selling products from June 23–26. As the brand prepares to expand into new beauty categories later this year, Prime Day offers consumers an opportunity to experience some of Laifen’s most popular innovations at exceptional value.

As consumers prepare for summer travel, Laifen’s compact, high-performance beauty devices offer salon-quality results on the go. During the prime day sale event, you can save on some of Laifen’s most loved products, including their award-winning hair dryers and electric toothbrushes, that have gained a loyal following for delivering premium results at an accessible price point.

Known for combining cutting-edge technology and modern aesthetics, Laifen has become a go-to brand for consumers seeking elevated personal care experiences at home. The Prime Day sale offers an ideal opportunity for shoppers to upgrade their beauty and wellness routines ahead of summer travel, social gatherings, vacations, and everyday styling needs.

Laifen Official Prime Day deals include:

Up to 40% off the SE 2 Hair DryerUp to 40% off the SE Lite Hair DryerUp to 40% off the Wave Special Electric ToothbrushUp to 40% off the P3 Pro Electric Shaver

As Laifen prepares to expand into two new beauty categories and further grow its next-generation hair care portfolio later this year, the brand is celebrating Prime Day with savings across its award-winning lineup while building momentum for upcoming product launches and strategic brand initiatives.

For more information about Laifen and to shop the Prime Day sale please visit LaifenTech.com and Laifen’s Amazon Storefront.

About Laifen: 

Founded in 2019, Laifen is a global personal care technology brand known for combining high-performance engineering with modern design across hair care, oral care, and grooming categories. The company first gained recognition for its proprietary high-speed motor technology, which powers its award-winning line of hair dryers. Since then, Laifen has expanded into electric toothbrushes and electric shavers, bringing innovative technologies and premium user experiences to consumers worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/laifen-announces-prime-day-savings-on-award-winning-hair-oral-care-and-grooming-innovations-302804423.html

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