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FII Convenes Dialogues on Global Growth and Sustainable Innovation

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 31, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On the second day of the 8th Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, leaders from around the world gathered to discuss the transformative potential of emerging technologies and investment strategies in redefining the future.  A Special Address was delivered by H.E. Minh Chính Phạm, Prime Minister, Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, summarised the day’s ambitions, stating, “At FII8, we are witnessing a new era where innovation and capital converge not just to shape industries but to create a sustainable and inclusive future for all. Today’s discussions highlighted the journey toward a world of boundless possibilities and infinite opportunities.”

Standout moments from Day Two of FII8

Board of Changemakers on Technology & Innovation: Leaders from industries including Marcelo Claure, Founder & CEO, Claure Group; Group Vice Chairman, SHEIN;  Alex Clavel, Co-CEO, SoftBank Vision Funds; Hani Enaya, CIO, Sanabil Investments; Antonio J. Gracias, Founder, CEO & CIO, Valor Equity Partners; Vineet Mittal, Chairman, Avaada Group; Dan Schulman, Vice Chairman & Managing Partner, Valor Capital Group; Robert Smith, Founder, Chairman & CEO, Vista Equity Partners; and Julie Sweet, Chair & CEO, Accenture explored how AI could create up to $10.3 trillion in economic value by 2038. This session urged companies to develop AI responsibly to ensure equitable benefits across society.Ocean Central Announcement: Her Royal Highness Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United States of America, announced the launch of Ocean Central, a digital platform developed by Wave and powered by FII Institute which collates data, and provides a clear and evolving view of ocean health, an urgently needed resource in efforts to regenerate our oceans.
HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud founded Wave as an initiative to champion ocean regeneration within a human generation, an ambitious but achievable aspiration, utilizing science-backed methodologies.
Wave has developed Ocean Central as a collaborative digital platform to unify once-disparate scientific ocean data by fostering collaboration, empowering decision-makers, and tracking collective progress toward ocean regeneration. Ocean Central combines accessibly displayed data with data-driven stories, relevant video content, news, and other ocean regeneration content to broaden users’ perspectives, shine light on the challenges ahead, celebrate successes, and foster a deeper appreciation for our planet’s ocean and our work to save it. To learn more, visit www.oceancentral.org AI and Geopolitics of Technology with Dr. Eric Schmidt, Former CEO & Chairman, Google, KBE: Dr. Eric Schmidt delivered a discussion on the geopolitical impact of AI, exploring how advancements in cybersecurity and digital infrastructure are reshaping international relations. His address emphasized the importance of cooperation in data governance and digital trade to navigate a world of increasing technological competition.The Global Future of Work Compass
The FII Institute unveiled its latest research, the Global Future of Work Compass, based on responses from over 1,300 people and 200 companies in the MENA region. The report indicates that 50% of respondents find advanced technology disruptive, and 46% believe youth tech training is insufficient, underscoring the need for proactive education reform and upskilling. Read the Full Report Here.Support for the Symphony of Hope Gala
The FII Institute contributed $100,000 to the Symphony of Hope Gala, advocating for individuals affected by celiac disease globally. This support aligns with the FII Institute’s commitment to inclusive health initiatives and creating awareness for pressing health concerns.’Clash of the Titans’ Debates
In a lively debate session titled “Clash of the Titans,” thought leaders exchanged views on three critical issues: the future of currency, the role of AI in truth, and the influence of technology companies in global power. This dynamic format allowed for fresh insights into these epoch-defining challenges. The Rise of Global Megaregions
Speakers from leading global institutions explored the concept of megaregions—large, interconnected economic zones—as new centers of opportunity. They discussed the role of capital in supporting these economic hubs through innovative solutions and infrastructure investments.Future of Resources: Achieving Clean Industries
Panellists debated the feasibility of clean industries amid rising demand for critical minerals in renewable technologies. Leaders from SABIC, Sigma Lithium, Vale, Ivanhoe Mines and Ma’aden addressed the challenge of responsibly managing resources to support sustainable growth.Building A Future-Ready Workforce
The potential for AI to redefine the future of work was a central theme, with discussions on adapting education and training to meet evolving demands. Industry experts highlighted how AI could contribute $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030, transforming job roles and creating new growth opportunities.
With a commitment to “Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” the FII Conference continues to pave the way for meaningful investments that drive progress, innovation, and sustainability worldwide. With over 45 sessions held on topics such as green technology and digital transformation in emerging markets, FII8 serves as a platform for exploring innovative solutions to global challenges. The insights shared here are critical to shaping future investment landscapes, empowering leaders, and fostering impactful partnerships.Announcements: Today, FII8 witnessed the announcement of 11 new financial announcements all investing in impactful solutions for humanity. Alongside these announcements, 6 strategic partnerships were established, underscoring a commitment to driving positive change across diverse sectors including technology, quality of life, innovation, and sustainability. 

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit foundation focused on creating positive impacts on humanity. Through its investment arm, FII Institute transforms ideas into solutions across four areas: Artificial Intelligence & Robotics, Education, Healthcare, and Sustainability.

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LEAP Group Relaunches HumanView, a Growth Intelligence System Built to Explain Why Customers Behave the Way They Do

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October 24, 2026

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Reimagined from the ground up, HumanView pairs statistical modeling with expert analysts to turn millions of real-world customer signals into business decisions

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LEAP Group today announced the relaunch of HumanView, its growth intelligence service. The new version has been rebuilt from the ground up and now has a dedicated home at leapgroupnetwork.com/humanview.

HumanView analyzes what customers say and do across social platforms, e-commerce sites, review platforms, search behavior and user-generated content, including signals from Reddit, TikTok, YouTube, Meta, Amazon and Walmart+ that general AI tools cannot always access. Because the data reflects unprompted, real-world behavior, it avoids the response bias built into surveys and focus groups.

The service works in three layers. HumanView captures signals at scale, decodes millions of records through validated statistical models such as regression, correlation and clustering, and then relies on experienced analysts to interpret the patterns. Clients receive clear, human-validated insights instead of another dashboard.

“Machines find the patterns. Humans find the point,” said Alan Gilleo, CEO at LEAP Group. “The first version of HumanView showed us how much customers reveal when nobody is asking them questions. This version is built to explain why they act the way they do, and to put those answers in front of everyone making decisions, from product to service to marketing.”

HumanView focuses on three areas:

Growth Intelligence: customer motivations and how people perceive a brand and its competitors

Market and Category Intelligence: product pain points, service friction, unmet needs and competitive gaps

Audience Intelligence: new segments, positioning opportunities and gaps in the market

Every model is designed and validated by data scientists and benchmarked before it informs a recommendation.

To learn more about HumanView, visit leapgroupnetwork.com/humanview.

About LEAP Group
LEAP Group is a boutique marketing agency holding company with offices in Louisville, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Chicago. Guided by the belief that brands should “Market Less. Matter More.,” LEAP gives clients access to specialized experts across its entire network. Learn more at leapgroupnetwork.com.

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SOURCE LEAP Group

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

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SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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