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ACORD Appoints Tim Ellis as Managing Director of London Market and International Operations

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Clarissa Montecillo to launch expanded advisory services at ACORD Solutions Group as Global Head of Consulting & Advisory

LONDON, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ACORD, the standards development organization for the global insurance industry, today announced that Tim Ellis has been named Managing Director – UK. In this role, Ellis will be responsible for driving the development and adoption of ACORD Data Standards and digital transformation throughout London and global (re)insurance and specialty markets.

Ellis is a London Market veteran known for transforming bold ideas and emerging technologies into reality. He has over 25 years of experience supporting standardized data exchange in the London Market, collaborating closely with Lloyd’s, Velonetic, and leading brokers, insurers, reinsurers, and solution providers. Throughout his career he has guided organizations through complex change, helping them to improve their operations and foster innovation.

“I’ve always thrived at the intersection of vision and execution, and I’m passionate about future-ready tech ecosystems,” said Ellis. “I’ve been working with ACORD Data Standards for decades, and I believe that now, more than ever, they are the key to building a digital future for our industry.”

Prior to joining ACORD, Ellis served as Operations Director of Web Connectivity Limited (WCL), overseeing a diverse portfolio of responsibilities including business change, stakeholder management, software delivery, and information security. He has also served within the information systems advisory practice at EY.

“Tim has both a long history with ACORD Data Standards, and deep expertise in the ongoing modernization of the market,” said Tanya Krochta, ACORD EVP, COO, and acting CEO. “This pedigree, and his operational focus, make him the ideal leader for this role.”

The appointment coincides with Clarissa Montecillo’s move to ACORD Solutions Group as Global Head of Consulting & Advisory. Building on her tenure leading ACORD’s UK business, Montecillo will launch an expanded consulting and advisory services practice with a clear mandate: to accelerate digitalization across the insurance industry.

“This expanded consulting arm will join together the full strength of ACORD Data Standards, ASG digital assets, and our deep expertise in processes and data to drive efficiency, interoperability, and real business impact for the insurance community,” said Montecillo.

ACORD Solutions Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of ACORD, was founded in 2016 at the request of the ACORD member community in order to address critical challenges and accelerate digitalization of insurance data exchange. The expanded consulting arm will also leverage the experience of ASG’s Licensed Integrator Partners (LIPs), which includes leading industry experts in digital transformation.

“Clarissa has played a key role in driving the benefits of ACORD Standards-enabled data exchange across global markets, and we’re delighted she’ll be applying that expertise and dedication to building the consulting practice at ASG,” said Chris Newman, President & CEO, ACORD Solutions Group. “This is an important evolution in the way ASG supports the industry. We’re creating a more integrated model that brings together standards, technology, and industry insights to accelerate real change.”

In recognition of its 25th anniversary in the London Market, ACORD will be hosting the official attendee lounge of London Risk Week, May 13-14, at The Moniker. Ellis and Montecillo will be joined by senior industry leaders at the ACORD Lounge, which will offer complimentary refreshments and thought leadership sessions, as well as special gift bags distributed by LIMOSS (London Insurance Market Operations & Strategic Sourcing).

Members of the insurance community are invited to attend a special breakfast session in the lounge, “The Next-Generation Digital Operating Model,” Thursday May 14 at 9am. Complete information on London Risk Week programming is available on the London Insurance Market website.

About ACORD

ACORD (Association for Cooperative Operations Research and Development) is the global standards-setting body for the insurance and related financial services industries. ACORD facilitates fast, accurate data exchange and efficient workflows through the development of electronic standards, standardized forms, and tools to support their use. ACORD engages thousands of insurance and reinsurance companies, agents and brokers, software providers, financial services organizations and industry associations in more than 100 countries. ACORD maintains offices in New York and London. Learn more at www.acord.org.

About ACORD Solutions Group

ACORD Solutions Group was created to solve critical industry challenges by delivering next-generation digital solutions and services. Our enterprise-class solutions optimize the speed, cost, and accuracy of data exchange, connecting stakeholders regardless of geography, role, and legacy constraints. ACORD Solutions Group is an extension of ACORD, the standards-setting body for the global insurance industry. Learn more at www.acordsolutions.com.

PRESS CONTACT:

Beth Jarecki, Omnia Paratus

beth@omniaparatus.com

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CreditRefresh Members Challenge More Than 1,000 Potential Credit Report Errors in First Month

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Credit Refresh LLC brings advanced AI and full consumer control to a traditionally complex dispute process

DOVER, Del., Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Credit Refresh LLC, creator of the AI-powered CreditRefresh platform, today announced that members used CreditRefresh to challenge more than 1,000 potentially inaccurate, incomplete, outdated or unverifiable credit report items during the platform’s first month.

CreditRefresh helps consumers conduct a detailed review of the credit report information they provide. Members decide what to address, review and edit their dispute materials, and control every step of the process themselves.

“Seeing members challenge more than 1,000 potential reporting errors during our first month reinforces our belief that consumers want a simpler and more transparent way to manage credit disputes,” said Jordan Reyes, Head of Product at Credit Refresh LLC. “CreditRefresh gives consumers advanced analysis and clear guidance while keeping every decision in their hands.”

AI trained for detailed credit report analysis

CreditRefresh uses advanced AI trained specifically to analyze credit report information with care and consistency. The technology reviews account-level details and applies structured checks across the information available for analysis.

This field-by-field approach helps members examine the information behind each account and understand which details may warrant further investigation. CreditRefresh can identify potential inconsistencies, outdated information, incomplete records and other details that may be difficult to recognize during a basic manual review.

CreditRefresh also makes the process easier for consumers who would otherwise attempt credit disputes without guidance. The platform organizes relevant information, explains potential issues in plain language and helps members prepare personalized dispute materials.

Consumers remain in control

Members choose which items to address, review the supporting information, approve the language used in their dispute materials, and decide whether and when to submit each dispute.

CreditRefresh encourages members to dispute only information they believe is inaccurate, incomplete, outdated or unverifiable.

“CreditRefresh was built to help consumers understand what appears on their credit reports and take informed action,” said Reyes. “Advanced AI handles the detailed analysis and organization. Members remain in control from the initial review through the final dispute decision.”

A promising first month

The more than 1,000 potential reporting errors challenged during the first month represent an early milestone for Credit Refresh LLC and demonstrate how consumers are using AI to take a more active role in the credit dispute process.

Each disputed item represents a decision made by a CreditRefresh member after reviewing the available information. Through this guided process, consumers can investigate potential errors and take an important first step toward better credit.

CreditRefresh does not promise a specific credit outcome. Results vary based on each consumer’s credit profile, the information disputed, creditor and credit bureau responses, and other financial activity.

A simpler approach to credit disputes

CreditRefresh combines systematic credit report analysis with the accessibility of a guided do-it-yourself experience. Members receive help understanding complicated report information while retaining personal control over the dispute process.

By making detailed analysis easier to access, Credit Refresh LLC aims to help more consumers understand their credit reports, investigate potential errors and take informed steps toward better credit.

About CreditRefresh

CreditRefresh is an AI-powered platform created by Credit Refresh LLC. CreditRefresh helps consumers review credit report information, identify potential reporting issues, prepare personalized dispute materials and manage the dispute process themselves. CreditRefresh is designed to make credit report disputes more understandable, detailed and accessible while keeping consumers in control.

Learn more at creditrefresh.ai.

Activity disclosure

The statement that members challenged more than 1,000 potential reporting errors is based on CreditRefresh platform records from July 28, 2026 through August 28, 2026. The total reflects credit report items selected for dispute by members. Submission of a dispute does not establish that the disputed information was inaccurate or guarantee a particular outcome.

Media contact

Maya Chen
Communications Lead, Credit Refresh LLC
press@creditrefresh.ai

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SOURCE Credit Refresh LLC

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Eightpoint Technologies Joins Enterprise Cayman and DMZ as Programme Partner for Launch Labs Incubator

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Eightpoint will support the inaugural 14-week programme connecting 18 ventures with mentorship, expertise and networks to help accelerate scalable growth

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC today announced that it has joined Enterprise Cayman and global startup incubator DMZ as a Programme Partner for the inaugural Launch Labs Incubator, a 14-week programme designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, accelerate commercialisation and prepare for investment and scalable growth.

The programme, which runs from September 1 through December 4, 2026, brings together 18 Cayman-based and international ventures spanning technology, financial services, artificial intelligence, consumer solutions and other emerging industries.

As a Programme Partner, Eightpoint will support Enterprise Cayman and DMZ in providing participating founders with access to resources, expertise and connections designed to help them build and grow their businesses.

“Having built and grown our business from Cayman, we have seen firsthand the value of a strong, connected technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Thomas Redford, President of Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC. “Launch Labs is creating meaningful opportunities for founders to access the mentorship, expertise and networks that can help turn promising ideas into scalable businesses. We’re pleased to come on board as a Programme Partner and support an initiative that is investing directly in entrepreneurs while strengthening Cayman’s position as a place where innovative companies can build and grow.”

Eightpoint Technologies has operated within Cayman Enterprise City since 2018 and recently reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Cayman Islands through an extended presence at Signal House in George Town. The company builds and commercialises digital products across desktop and mobile interfaces, giving its team firsthand experience developing technology products for consumers across international markets.

That experience closely aligns with Launch Labs’ focus on helping founders move from early-stage ideas toward sustainable, scalable companies.

“Eightpoint has been part of the Cayman Enterprise City community for many years, and we are pleased to have them joining Launch Labs as a Programme Partner,” said Charlie Kirkconnell, CEO of Cayman Enterprise City and Chairman of Enterprise Cayman. “Their experience building technology businesses from Cayman and serving international markets brings valuable perspective to the programme. Partnerships like this help us connect entrepreneurs with the experience, expertise and networks that can support their growth while continuing to strengthen Cayman’s innovation ecosystem.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Powered by DMZ, one of the world’s leading startup incubators, Launch Labs combines weekly workshops, structured milestones, dedicated mentorship and founder activities across four core areas: strategic foundations, go-to-market and sales, financial and growth strategy, and execution and investor readiness.

For Eightpoint, participating in Launch Labs is an extension of the company’s broader commitment to supporting the technology community in the Cayman Islands.

“Eightpoint has benefited from being part of the Cayman community for many years, and we believe it is important to give back locally by supporting initiatives that create opportunities for others,” said Deniz Gezgin, CEO of Eightpoint. “Developing a strong technology ecosystem also means investing in people. Through programmes like Launch Labs, we hope to help create more pathways for local entrepreneurs and talent to develop their skills, build businesses and access meaningful career opportunities as Cayman’s technology sector continues to grow.”

The inaugural Launch Labs programme concludes December 4, 2026. Additional information about the programme is available through Enterprise Cayman at enterprisecayman.ky/launch-labs-incubator

About Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC: Eightpoint Technologies Ltd. SEZC is a special economic zone company based at Signal House in George Town, Grand Cayman, where it has operated within Cayman Enterprise City since 2018. It builds and commercialises user-first digital products across desktop and mobile interfaces. Eightpoint Technologies is one of a group of sister companies, each a separate legal entity. Learn more at eightpoint.io.

About Enterprise Cayman: Enterprise Cayman is a non-profit organisation powered by Cayman Enterprise City in partnership with Cayman Islands special economic zone companies. The organisation provides Caymanians and residents with access to learning experiences and opportunities to develop and launch new business ventures, pursue careers within the technology and innovation sectors, and connect with a network of industry professionals.

About DMZ: DMZ is a tech incubator and startup ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurship in Canada and beyond. Through its programmes, DMZ supports founders in scaling high-impact ventures and connects entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship and international networks. Headquartered in Toronto, DMZ operates a global network spanning more than 15 countries.

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SOURCE Eightpoint

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IFA 2026: Sunseeker Debuts 2027 LiDAR Models, Smart Garden Ecosystem and Industry‑First 3D Semantic Map

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The 2027 LiDAR lineup and intelligent garden platform mark a strategic shift from standalone mowers to a connected, adaptive outdoor ecosystem

BERLIN, Sept. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sunseeker, a global leader in intelligent lawn care, unveiled five all-new 2027 LiDAR products at IFA 2026, alongside its Smart Garden ecosystem, AllSense™ 3.0, and MapOS™ with the industry’s first 3D Semantic Map for intuitive, real-scene lawn management.

Making its IFA debut, Sunseeker is expanding its vision beyond robotic mowing to build a connected Smart Garden ecosystem powered by AI, robotics, supporting smart irrigation, weed control, and the seamless integration of an expanding range of outdoor robots.

Sunseeker’s 2027 LiDAR lineup: precision, intelligence and scalability for every garden

Sunseeker’s 2027 LiDAR lineup is designed for effortless use: no manual mapping, no complexity. All five models come standard with LiDAR sensing. Among them, the S7 LiDAR Ultra AWD 3000 and S5 LiDAR Ultra Pro AWD 1800 feature AllSense™ 3.0, which uses 360° LiDAR to autonomously map and navigate the working environment, along with Smart Garden ecosystem and MapOS™. The S3 LiDAR Series utilizes solid-state LiDAR. All are engineered to deliver precise perception and reliable navigation across diverse garden environments. The S7’s AWD easily handles steep and uneven ground, including slopes of up to 80% (approx. 39°). The five models bring wire-free and antenna-free installation and centimeter-level navigation to gardens from 500 to 3,000 square meters. Availability begins in February 2027.

The S7 is designed for large and complex lawns and features an Extension Hub that supports accessories such as the EdgeZero trimmer head, enabling precise 0cm edge-to-edge cutting, as well as a robotic arm. The S5 brings advanced intelligence to medium and large family gardens, while the S3 Series provides wireless precision for smaller and sloped lawns. With 360° LiDAR and recognition of more than 360 types of obstacles, Sunseeker’s perception technology helps mowers detect and respond to objects more accurately, reducing the risk of collisions and helping users enjoy safer and more reliable autonomous mowing with less manual intervention.

Smart Garden: An Intelligent Ecosystem That Senses, Understands, and Recommends

At IFA 2026, Sunseeker introduced the Smart Garden ecosystem, bringing a more intelligent garden and lawn management experience to users.

Built on Sense, Understand, and Recommend, Sunseeker’s Smart Garden ecosystem connects robotic mowers, rain gauges, soil sensors (available 2027), and future autonomous robots into a unified intelligence network. By continuously monitoring rainfall, soil, lawn health, and environmental conditions, it builds real‑time garden understanding, transforming data into actionable insights through onboard Vision AI, multi‑modal sensor fusion, and cloud‑based AI models. For example, when yellow grass is detected, AI can help determine whether it is caused by drought or pests and recommend watering or pest control. Future integration with Smart Irrigation Control will further extend Smart Garden from sensing and recommendations to automated action.

Sunseeker also unveiled its FSA (Flexible Supervised Autonomy Outdoors) technology roadmap to explore the future development of autonomous outdoor care. Informed by discussions with Prof. Dr. Alan Akbik, Professor of Machine Learning at Humboldt University of Berlin, the roadmap aims to progressively reduce human intervention. With Sunseeker currently at the Level 3 (L3) Smart Garden stage and progressing toward L4 Supervised Autonomous Garden and L5 Supervised Autonomous Outdoors, the roadmap charts a clear path forward.

“AI will redefine the entire outdoor-care industry. As we progress from L3 toward L4 and L5, human involvement in outdoor work will continue to decline, helping address labor shortages and population aging,” said Prof. Dr. Alan Akbik.

“This evolution is already underway, and Sunseeker is committed to leading it,” said Terry Ma, CEO of Sunseeker. “We will continue to invest in AI and robotics, advancing from Smart Garden to Flexible Supervised Autonomous Outdoors to free users from routine outdoor work and give them more freedom to enjoy life.

MapOS™: Industry‑First 3D Semantic Map for Intuitive Lawn Management

Integrating AI semantic understanding, MapOS™ transforms visual information into a semantic map to create a digital representation of the garden with contextual understanding, the real-scene map will give users a clear view of the garden including both layout and key landscape elements, which further enables fine-tune boundaries point by point, designates no-go and safe zones, and customizes mowing settings directly on the map to make the lawn management more intuitive and precise.

For large or complex gardens, MapOS™ combines real-scene visualization with intelligent insights to reduce unnecessary remapping and manual intervention, delivering a more effortless lawn-care experience.

Accelerating growth through portfolio strength and global reach

Sunseeker Robotics achieved a threefold increase in revenue in 2026, driven by 14 products across 40 countries under its dual-brand strategy. The company continues to strengthen its Glocal strategy through localized partnerships, retail expansion and full-channel service capabilities. Its retail network has grown from approximately 1,500 points of sale in 2025 to about 5,000 in 2026, supported by partnerships with leading retailers, e-commerce platforms and regional distributors across Europe and the U.S.

Sunseeker is also expanding its presence through partnerships with national team and major sports clubs, including FFF (French Football Federation), SV Werder Bremen (Germany), Mantova 1911 (Italy), IFK Göteborg (Sweden) and F.C. Copenhagen (Denmark), Philadelphia Phillies (US), further strengthening its connection with local communities beyond product sales.

 

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SOURCE Sunseeker Robotics

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