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ASUS ROG Unveils Latest Innovations Forged to Unlock Limitless Gaming Potential at CES 2025

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2 years ago

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ROG redefines the future of gaming with its powerful lineup of gaming laptops, desktops, and external graphics.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) unveiled its groundbreaking 2025 gaming technology lineup today at the Unlock the ROG Lab: For Those Who Dare virtual event for CES 2025. Channeling the innovative spirit of ROG Lab, this year’s products—including cutting-edge laptops, desktops, and external GPUs—are engineered to redefine gaming performance and help every player realize their full potential.

Headlining the range is the 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 16/18 series, featuring next-generation Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX processors and up to NVIDIA RTX™ 5090 laptop GPUs for unrivaled power in both gaming and creative workflows. The ROG Strix G16/G18 models complement this by offering AMD Ryzen™ 9 or Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 HX processors, making them ideal for AAA gaming and content creation.

ROG also introduced the versatile Zephyrus G14/G16, ultrathin laptops combining portability with uncompromising performance, as well as the 2025 Flow Z13—a 2-in-1 gaming tablet powered by up to  AMD Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 and featuring a vibrant ROG Nebula Display. Completing the lineup is the ROG G700 desktop series, equipped with up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285K or AMD Ryzen™ 7 9800X3D processors and up to NVIDIA RTX™ 5090 GPUs.

ROG’s previously revealed ROG Phone 9 series is also available for purchase starting January 7.

CES 2025 attendees can experience these innovations firsthand at The Venetian Expo, Meeting Room #3102, from January 6 to January 9, 2025.

ROG Strix SCAR 16/18: Unleashing Ultimate Power and Precision

The 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 16/18 is powered by the Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX, paired with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5090 laptop GPUs. Featuring a MUX Switch and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, these laptops excel in AAA gaming, high-performance tasks, and multitasking. ROG’s Intelligent Cooling technology, with a custom vapor chamber, Tri-Fan design, and Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal, ensures low temperatures and noise levels, maintaining peak performance even in extended sessions.

The ROG Nebula HDR Display elevates visuals with its 2.5K mini-LED panel, 240Hz refresh rate, 16:10 aspect ratio, 2,000+ dimming zones, and 1200 nits peak brightness. 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and ACR technology enhance contrast and reduce reflections for immersive gameplay.

With up to 64GB DDR5-5600 RAM, a 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD, and a futureproof upgrade design, the SCAR Series offers exceptional speed, storage, and flexibility. Customizable AniMe Vision and Aura RGB lighting add a personal aesthetic, making this laptop a powerhouse tailored for modern gamers.

ROG Strix G16/G18: Empowering Every Gamer

The ROG Strix G16/G18  redefine gaming and content creation with unmatched performance and cutting-edge design. Powered by AMD Ryzen™ 9 HX or Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 HX processors and paired with NVIDIA RTX™ 50 Series Laptop GPUs, these laptops deliver lightning-fast AAA gaming performance and seamless multitasking for resource-intensive applications. With up to 32GB of DDR5 5600MHz RAM, users can tackle demanding tasks with ease.

Advanced Tri-Fan Technology, a full-width heatsink, and full-surround vents ensure superior thermal management, keeping temperatures low during intense gaming sessions. Whether it’s marathon battles or creative workflows, the ROG Strix G16/G18 maintain peak performance without compromise.

The ROG Nebula Display features a stunning 2.5K resolution, ultra-responsive 240Hz refresh rate, and 3ms response time for smooth, vibrant gameplay. 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and Ambient Contrast Ratio (ACR) technology enhance every detail while reducing reflections for an immersive experience. A built-in 1080p FHD camera and dual Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers make streaming and recording effortless, with crisp visuals and high-quality audio for sharing your victories.

Dual PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD slots offer expansive storage, with Intel models supporting PCIe Gen 5 on both slots and AMD models on one. This future-ready design ensures easy upgrades to stay ahead of evolving gaming demands.

The AMD-powered Strix G614/814models feature ROG pixel-pattern aesthetics, a robust armor cap, and a sleek hinge design for durability and style. Meanwhile, the Intel-equipped G615/815 models showcase full-surround Aura RGB lighting, delivering a bold, customizable look that complements any gaming setup.

Customizable hotkeys provide quick access to essential commands, empowering gamers to stay in control during critical moments. Whether you’re leading your squad to glory or diving into creative projects, the ROG Strix G16/G18 are built to help you rise to the top.

Zephyrus G14/G16: Ultra-Portable Gaming at its Best

The ROG Zephyrus G14/G16 deliver portability and performance in a lightweight CNC-milled aluminum chassis. The G16 is powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285H and NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5090 laptop GPUs, while the G14 features up to AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5080 laptop GPUs, ensuring seamless gaming and multitasking.

The G14’s ROG Nebula OLED Display offers 3K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 0.2ms response time, while the G16’s 2.5K OLED Display boasts a 240Hz refresh rate with similar responsiveness. Both feature 100% DCI-P3 color coverage and NVIDIA G-SYNC® for smooth, tear-free visuals.

Advanced cooling with 2nd Gen Arc Flow Fans and vapor chamber or heat pipe systems keeps performance optimized during intense gaming. Weighing 3.46lbs (G14) and 4.30lbs (G16) with maximum thicknesses of 0.62″ and 0.58″, these ultrathin laptops offer exceptional portability. Stylish Platinum White and Eclipse Gray options with Slash Lighting add bold aesthetics.

The G14 integrates AI-powered tools like Microsoft Copilot for productivity and NVIDIA DLSS for optimized gaming. Both models include robust I/O options, such as DisplayPort 2.1 and USB-C with 100W power delivery, making the Zephyrus G14/G16 versatile and powerful companions for gamers and creators.

ROG Flow Z13: The Game-Changer in 2-in-1 Gaming

The 2025 ROG Flow Z13 is a versatile 2-in-1 gaming tablet that delivers portability and top-tier performance. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, a cutting-edge chiplet-based design, it offers exceptional performance and power efficiency, perfect for its compact 13-inch form factor. With up to 128GB of unified memory, the Z13 ensures high-speed access for both CPU and GPU needs, boosting performance and responsiveness.

The Z13 features a 2.5K ROG Nebula 180Hz touchscreen with Pantone validation and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, delivering stunningly accurate visuals. Built from durable CNC aluminum, it weighs slightly more than a standard tablet and includes a 170° kickstand for versatile use. A 70 Wh battery provides up to 10 hours of gaming or productivity on the go.

A revamped stainless steel vapor chamber and 2nd Gen Arc Flow Fans™ ensure quiet, efficient cooling even under heavy loads. The new ROG Command Center offers quick access to system functions, while an enhanced touchpad and keycaps make the Flow Z13 equally suited for work and play.

2025 ROG XG Mobile: More Than Graphics, Less to Carry

The 2025 ROG XG Mobile redefines portable gaming accessories with NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5090 laptop GPUs and cutting-edge Thunderbolt™ 5 connectivity. This compact external GPU delivers peak performance in a striking new design, making it the perfect companion for gamers on the go.

A redesigned vapor chamber reduces weight by 30% with a new copper build while maintaining top thermal performance through 50% thicker capillary structures. Combined with an inverted fan outlet, the XG Mobile manages heat efficiently while keeping noise levels low. Advanced active bridge rectifier MOSFETs make it ROG’s smallest and lightest external GPU yet, enhancing portability without compromising power.

Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, and an SD card reader, all accessible via a single Thunderbolt 5 connection. Customizable operating modes and full Aura Sync support let users personalize RGB lighting through its semi-transparent case. With the 2025 ROG XG Mobile, gamers can enjoy flagship performance and portability, transforming portable gaming solutions.

ROG Phone 9 Series

The ROG Phone 9 series, including the ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro, combines sleek, high-end design with the innovative AniMe Vision mini-LED auxiliary display. Powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform, these gaming phones deliver unparalleled performance, supported by ROG’s AI-driven gaming features and the advanced GameCool 9 cooling system.

The 3-nanometer Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform ensures ultrasmooth, lag-free gameplay, with Qualcomm Seamless enabling effortless syncing to Snapdragon X Elite-powered PCs. Enhanced components like the Oryon™ CPU, Adreno™ GPU, and AI-focused Hexagon NPU push performance to new heights, handling even the most demanding titles with ease.

Designed with a unique SoC-centered structure, the ROG Phone 9 series stays cool under pressure, especially when paired with the AeroActive Cooler X Pro clip-on cooler for enhanced heat dissipation. For a console-like experience, the ROG Tessen mobile controller transforms the phone into a professional-grade gaming device, offering exceptional comfort for extended sessions.

ROG G700 Series Desktops: Built for Performance and Flexibility

The 2025 ROG Strix G700 series desktops are built for gaming excellence, featuring AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D or Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285K processors and NVIDIA RTX™ 50 Series Desktop GPUs. With up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM at 6000MHz and high-speed PCIe Gen 5 storage, the G700 ensures exceptional performance and responsiveness.

Designed for durability, the G700 offers both air- and water-cooling configurations, with a quad-fan system optimizing airflow. Tool-less access to the side and front panels simplifies upgrades, while standard-sized components extend the chassis’s lifespan and ease maintenance.

The sleek design features a seamless glass front panel with minimal gaps, accented by ROG’s signature “slash” design and customizable RGB lighting. Aura Sync support allows for a unified aesthetic with other ROG peripherals, while dust filters on the top and bottom panels maintain cleanliness for consistent performance.

With premium ROG-engineered components, the G700 series delivers top-tier gaming performance and flexibility in a sophisticated, durable design.

AVAILABILITY AND PRICING 

Gaming laptops are scheduled for release in Q1 2025, starting in February.

ROG Desktops will soon be available for Configure to Order on the ASUS Store, offering gamers the flexibility to customize their ideal setup. Additionally, multiple pre-built configurations will be available for purchase through major retailers Q1 2025. For more details, please contact your ASUS representative.

The ROG Phone 9 and ROG Phone 9 Pro are now available for purchase through Amazon and ASUS Online Store.

For specific release dates and availability, please reach out to your ASUS representative.

SPECIFICATIONS

2025 ROG Strix SCAR 16/18

Config Model Name

G635L | G835L

Marketing Name

2025 ROG Strix Scar 16/18

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Color

Off Black

Weight

18″: 7.67 lbs
16″: 6.28 lbs

Dimensions

18″: 15.71″ x 11.73″ x 0.93″ ~ 1.26″

16″: 13.94″ x 10.55″ x 0.90″ ~ 1.21″

Display

16″ | 18″, ROG Nebula HDR, Mini LED, 240Hz, 2560×1600, 500 nits (SDR), 1200 nits (HDR), 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, G-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR, 1200:1 contrast ratio

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX

Graphics

Up to NVIDIA RTX 5090, 175W Max TGP, 24GB VRAM

Memory

Up to 64 GB DDR5 5600 Included (2 x SODIMM slots)

Storage

Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD included (2 x SSD slots, support PCIe 5.0)

Webcam

1080p FHD IR Webcam

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4

IO Ports

1 x 2.5G Lan Jack
 2 x Thunderbolt 5 (PD, DP, G-Sync support)
 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
 1 x HDMI 2.1 FRL
 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Combo Jack

Battery

90 Whr

AC Adapter

Rectangle Conn, 380W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 19A, 380W, Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz universal

 

2025 ROG Strix G16/G18 (Intel)

Config Model Name

G615L | G815L

Marketing Name

2025 ROG Strix G 16/18 (Intel)

Operating System

Up to Windows 11 Pro

Color

Off Black

Weight

18″: 7.54 lbs
16″: 6.02 lbs

Dimensions

18″: 15.71″ x 11.73″ x 0.93″ ~ 1.26″
16″: 13.94″ x 10.55″ x 0.90″ ~ 1.21″

Display

16″ | 18″, Up to ROG Nebula, IPS, 240Hz, 2560×1600, 500 nits, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, G-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX

Graphics

Up to NVIDIA RTX 5080, 175W Max TGP, 16GB VRAM

Memory

Up to 64 GB DDR5 5600 Included (2 x SODIMM slots)

Storage

Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD included (2 x SSD slots, support PCIe 5.0)

Webcam

1080p FHD IR Webcam

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4

IO Ports

Up to 1 x 2.5G Lan Jack*
 Up to 2 x Thunderbolt 5 (PD, DP, G-Sync support)**
 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
 1 x HDMI 2.1 FRL
 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Combo Jack

Battery

90 Whr

AC Adapter

Rectangle Conn, Up to 380W^ AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 19A, 380W, Input: 100-240V AC, 50/60Hz universal

Notes

*2.5G or 1G Lan Jack depending on the configuration
 ** 2 x Thunderbolt 5 or 1x Thunderbolt 4 + 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C depending on the configuration
 ^ 380W or lower depending on the GPU

 

2025 ROG Strix G16/G18 (AMD)

Config Model Name

G614F | G814F

Marketing Name

2025 ROG Strix G 16/18 (AMD)

Operating System

Windows 11 Home

Color

Eclipse Gray

Weight

18″: 6.61 lbs
16″: 5.51 lbs

Dimensions

18″: 15.71″ x 11.57″ x 0.91″ ~ 1.21″
16″: 13.94″ x 10.39″ x 0.89″ ~ 1.20″

Display

16″ | 18″, Up to ROG Nebula, IPS, 240Hz, 2560×1600, 500 nits, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, G-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR

Processor

Up to AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D

Graphics

Up to NVIDIA RTX 5070Ti, 140W Max TGP, 12GB VRAM

Memory

Up to 32 GB DDR5 5600 Included (2 x SODIMM slots)

Storage

Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD included (2 x SSD slots, support for PCIe 5.0 on one slot)

Webcam

1080p FHD IR Webcam

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 6E + BT 5.3

IO Ports

1 x 1G Lan Jack
 1 x USB 4.0 (PD, DP, G-Sync support)
 1 x USB4 (DP, G-Sync support)
 1 x HDMI 2.1 FRL
 1 x 3.5 Audio Combo Jack

Battery

90 Whr

AC Adapter

ø6.0, 280W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 14A, 280W, Input: 100~240C AC 50/60Hz universal

 

2025 Zephyrus G16

Config Model Name

GU605C

Marketing Name

2025 Zephyrus G16

Operating System

Up to Windows 11 Pro

Color

Platinum White | Eclipse Gray

Weight

4.3 lbs

Dimensions

13.94″ x 9.69″ x 0.59″ ~ 0.69″

Display

16″, Up to ROG Nebula, OLED, 240Hz, 2560×1600, 500 nits, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, G-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

Graphics

Up to NVIDIA RTX 5090, 175W Max TGP, 24GB VRAM

Memory

Up to 64 GB LPDDR5X 7467 (on board)

Storage

Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD included (2 x SSD PCIE 4.0)

Webcam

1080p FHD IR Webcam

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4

IO Ports

1 x Thunderbolt 4 (PD, DP support)
 1 x USB 3.2 Gen Type-C (PD, DP, G-Sync support)
 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
 1 x HDMI 2.1 FRL
 1 x 3.5 Audio Combo Jack

Battery

90 Whr

AC Adapter

Rectangle Conn, 240W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 12A, 240W, Input: 100~240C AC 50/60Hz universal

 

2025 Zephyrus G14

Config Model Name

GA403W

Marketing Name

2025 Zephyrus G14

Operating System

Up to Windows 11 Pro

Color

Platinum White | Eclipse Gray

Weight

3.46 lbs

Dimensions

12.24″ x 8.66″ x 0.63″ ~ 0.72″

Display

14″, Up to ROG Nebula, OLED, 240Hz, 2880 x 1800, 500 nits, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, G-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR

Processor

AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

Graphics

Up to NVIDIA RTX 5080, 175W Max TGP, 16GB VRAM

Memory

Up to 32 GB LPDDR5X 7500 (on board)

Storage

Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD included (1 x SSD PCIE 4.0)

Webcam

1080p FHD IR Webcam

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.4

IO Ports

1 x USB 4.0 (PD, DP support)
 1 x USB 3.2 Gen Type-C (PD, DP, G-Sync support)
 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
 1 x HDMI 2.1 FRL
 1 x 3.5 Audio Combo Jack

Battery

90 Whr

AC Adapter

Rectangle Conn, 240W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 12A, 240W, Input: 100~240C AC 50/60Hz universal

 

2025 Flow Z13

Config Model Name

GZ302EA-XS96

GZ302EA-DS96

Marketing Name

Flow Z13 (2025)

Flow Z13 (2025)

Operating System

Windows 11 Pro

Windows 11 Home

Color

Off Black

Off Black

Weight

2.64 lbs

2.64 lbs

Dimensions

11.81 x 8.03 x 0.51 inches

11.81 x 8.03 x 0.51 inches

Display

ROG Nebula Display, 13.4″, IPS, 180Hz, 3ms response times, 2560×1600, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, Touch and Pen support, 1500:1 contrast ratio, Corning Gorilla Glass 5

ROG Nebula Display, 13.4″, IPS, 180Hz, 3ms response times, 2560×1600, 100% DCI-P3, Pantone Validated, Touch and Pen support, 1500:1 contrast ratio  Corning Gorilla Glass 5

Processor

AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

AMD Ryzen AI Max 390

Graphics

RDNA 3.5

RDNA 3.5

Memory

32GB LPDDR5X

32GB LPDDR5X

Storage

1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

Webcam

Front Camera: 3DNR + 5M IR Camera
 Rear Camera: 13M Camera

Front Camera: 3DNR + 5M IR Camera
 Rear Camera: 13M Camera

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 7

Wi-Fi 7

IO Ports

2 x USB4 (PD, DP support)
 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
 1 x HDMI 2.1
 1 x microSD card reader (UHS-II)
 1 x Audio Combo Jack

2 x USB4 (PD, DP support)
 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
 1 x HDMI 2.1
 1 x microSD card reader (UHS-II)
 1 x Audio Combo Jack

Battery

70Whr

70Whr

AC Adapter

200W

200W

 

NOTES TO EDITORS
ASUS USA Pressroom: https://www.asus.com/us/news/      
ASUS USA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asus.n.america/  
ASUS USA X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ASUSUSA  

About ROG
Republic of Gamers (ROG) is an ASUS sub-brand dedicated to creating the world’s best gaming hardware and software. Formed in 2006, ROG offers a complete line of innovative products known for performance and quality, including motherboards, graphics cards, system components, laptops, desktops, monitors, smartphones, audio equipment, routers, peripherals and accessories. ROG participates in and sponsors major international gaming events. ROG gear has been used to set hundreds of overclocking records and it continues to be the preferred choice of gamers and enthusiasts around the world. To become one of those who dare, learn more about ROG at http://rog.asus.com.

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SOURCE ASUS Computer International

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

Published

6 hours ago

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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.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leap-group-relaunches-humanview-a-growth-intelligence-system-built-to-explain-why-customers-behave-the-way-they-do-302918557.html

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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7 hours ago

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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

Published

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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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