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Fintactics Announces New Strategic Partnership with Ethos Invest and Arbah Capital to Invest in Early Stage FinTech Businesses

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Fintactics, a Saudi based, leading venture builder specializing in financial technology, today announced a new strategic partnership with Ethos Invest, a global investment firm, and Arbah Capital, a prominent investment firm licenced by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia in relation to its Fintactics Financial Technology Fund.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Fintactics, a Saudi based, leading venture builder specializing in financial technology, today announced a new strategic partnership with Ethos Invest, a global investment firm, and Arbah Capital, a prominent investment firm licenced by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia in relation to its Fintactics Financial Technology Fund.

The fund, targeting $40 million (150M SAR) in commitments and managed by Arbah Capital, aims to make Shariah-compliant investments in early-stage FinTech companies primarily in the Kingdom, but also in the Middle East and the rest of the world.

This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in fostering innovation within the Saudi financial services industry and leverages the expertise of each organization: Fintactics’ proven track record in building successful ventures in the country, Ethos Invest’s global investment expertise, and Arbah Capital’s deep understanding of the regional financial landscape.

The fund, targeting $40 million (150M SAR) in commitments and managed by Arbah Capital, aims to make Shariah-compliant investments in early-stage FinTech companies primarily in the Kingdom, but also in the Middle East and the rest of the world. The targeted fundraising would put the fund at the forefront of private venture capital funds in Saudi Arabia, in terms of size.

The partnership signifies increasing global confidence in startups in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia has rapidly become a leading hub in the FinTech industry and for venture capital in the region, ranking first across MENA for total venture capital funding in the first half of 20241. This significant growth can be seen in light of efforts taken under Vision 2030 to develop Saudi’s venture capital ecosystem.

Early Investments Showcase Commitment to Supporting Innovative Founders

The team are already engaging actively with startups in the venture capital ecosystem and have built a strong pipeline of deal opportunities in the Kingdom and globally.

Several investment opportunities have been secured for the fund and it is envisaged that capital will be deployed into a number of exciting FinTech businesses later this year.

Building a Thriving Ecosystem

“We are delighted to announce this new strategic partnership with Ethos Invest, which is a real vote of confidence in the burgeoning Saudi FinTech sector,” said Haitham Alsahfy, Co-Founder & CEO of Fintactics. “It underscores the immense potential of the FinTech sector and our commitment to backing innovative companies that are reshaping the financial landscape in the region and globally.”

“By combining Fintactics’ venture building capabilities with Ethos Invest’s global reach and Arbah Capital’s regional expertise, we are uniquely positioned to identify and nurture the next generation of financial services leaders.”

Kevin Cunningham, Partner at Ethos Invest, added, “By combining Fintactics’ venture building capabilities with Ethos Invest’s expertise and Arbah Capital’s regional knowledge, we are uniquely positioned to identify and nurture the next generation of financial services leaders in Saudi Arabia. The fund aligns with our broader mission to help build new businesses that leverage cutting edge financial and technology solutions to make people’s lives better.”

Waleed Al-Rashdan, CEO of Arbah Capital, concluded, “This fund represents a strategic investment in the future of finance. We are excited to collaborate with Fintactics and Ethos Invest and join forces in fostering a vibrant FinTech ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and beyond. We are confident that our collaboration will unlock tremendous opportunities for regional and global financial innovation.”

About Fintactics Ventures

Fintactics Ventures, headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a premier fintech dedicated VC fund and venture studio with a vision to redefine the future financial landscape. This venture-building entity is dedicated to fostering, propelling, and investing in innovative startups not just in Saudi Arabia but extending to the broader MENA region and Globally. Through its endeavors, Fintactics cultivates a technologically-driven ecosystem, significantly advancing growth both on a regional and local scale.

About Ethos Group

Ethos Invest is part of the Ethos Group whose mission is to build a digital ecosystem of ethical financial service firms that solve the values- and faith-based compromises made by millions of customers globally, improving their financial wellbeing in the process. The Ethos Group and its subsidiaries, is currently undergoing a rebranding process, and will have a new name in due course.

About Arbah Capital

Arbah Capital is the First Islamic Boutique Investment firm in Eastern Region of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and thus embarked on an ambitious and visionary mission to provide investment solutions to their investors.

1 H1 2024 Saudi Arabia Venture Capital Report. MAGNiTT Report, Sponsored by SVC

Media Contact

Jessica Joyce, PR Novo LLC, 1 (325) 221-3634, hello@prnovo.com, https://prnovo.com 

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SOURCE Fintactics Ventures

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Cainiao deploys latest L4 autonomous delivery vehicle for public roads

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HANGZHOU, China, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cainiao, a global leader in e-commerce logistics and logistics technology, has recently launched its latest L4-level autonomous vehicle for public roads – the Cainiao Autonomous Vehicle GT Pro. This marks the first major upgrade since the debut of the Cainiao GT in 2024. The GT Pro brings significant improvements across various aspects, including design, range, algorithm optimization and interactive features.

With dimensions of 3694mm in length, 1299mm in width, and 2200mm in height, the GT Pro is comparable in size to a compact passenger vehicle, making it adaptable to a wide variety of road scenarios. The vehicle offers a cargo space of 5 cubic meters, with the capacity to carry 600 to 800 parcels per trip. It boasts an impressive 180-kilometer range, ensuring long-distance efficiency for deliveries.

The GT Pro comes with several design enhancements compared to its predecessor. Notably, it features an interactive front light display that allows the vehicle to communicate its working status across various scenarios. Additionally, the sensor suite has been upgraded, now incorporating one LiDAR and eleven high-definition cameras in a multi-sensor fusion system. This improved setup boosts the vehicle’s environmental perception, enhancing its ability to accurately and reliably detect and respond to its surroundings during operation.

Cainiao is one of the first logistics companies in the industry to invest in autonomous delivery vehicle research and operations. Over the past decade, the company has accumulated more than 5 million kilometers of real-world driving experience across closed, semi-closed, and public roads, delivering over 40 million parcels using autonomous vehicles. This extensive experience positions Cainiao as an industry leader in autonomous logistics.

Since the introduction of the Cainiao GT in 2024, by December 2024, the vehicle had reached customers across over 10 provinces in China, including Zhejiang, Shandong, Henan, Shaanxi, Anhui, and Jiangsu. It was deployed in more than 30 counties and municipal-level regions, receiving widespread acclaim from customers for its efficiency and reliability.

Looking ahead, Cainiao plans to advance its technology from high-precision maps to map-free navigation, further expanding the commercial potential of autonomous vehicles. Additionally, the company is exploring new use cases such as supermarket deliveries, and other scenarios, while also developing more customized GT Pro models to meet the diverse needs of various business applications.

About Cainiao Group

Founded in 2013, Cainiao Group is a global leader in e-commerce logistics. Drawing on our deep e-commence insights, purposely built technology and a proven commitment to sustainability, we offer three core services, including global express, global supply chain, and logistics technology solutions. 

With a network that spans over 200 countries and territories worldwide, our global express division excels in various segments, including cross-border express delivery and nationwide express services in markets such as China, Europe, and the Americas.

With a long-term mission to achieve nationwide delivery within 24 hours and worldwide delivery within 72 hours, Cainiao Group bridges global markets, empowering businesses and individuals to seize global trade opportunities.

For more information about Cainiao, please visit cainiao.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cainiao-deploys-latest-l4-autonomous-delivery-vehicle-for-public-roads-302342770.html

SOURCE Cainiao

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Planet Classroom: Masters of Film Playlist, Isadora Duncan, and AI Career Insights

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New Playlist Celebrates Filmmaking Masters, Modern Dance Icons, and AI-Driven Careers Planet Classroom’s January 2025 Releases: Youth-Curated Stories for a Rapidly Changing World

NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Since its launch during the height of the pandemic, Planet Classroom has evolved into a global youth-led platform for creative expression, offering digital content for creators and innovators tackling today’s challenges and solutions. With over 135,000 subscribers and 40 cultural curators worldwide, Planet Classroom continues to expand its influence, presenting transformative stories and powerful ideas.

This January, Planet Classroom introduces Masters of Film, a new playlist celebrating acclaimed filmmakers from their earliest beginnings, including their time in film school, to their rise as creative pioneers. By showcasing works like Terry deRoy Gruber’s Not Just Any Flower, directed under the mentorship of Martin Scorsese, this series inspires today’s storytellers to learn from the greatest teachers of the past.

In addition, Planet Classroom proudly announces its collaboration with the Isadora Duncan Dance Company, bringing the timeless artistry of modern dance to a global audience. This partnership debuts with the captivating short film Lori Belilove Performs The Revolutionary, celebrating Duncan’s modern dance legacy and ensuring her revolutionary contributions continue to inspire future generations of creators.

Finally, the platform’s popular AI for a Better World series returns with Michael B. Horn’s episode, Future-Proof Your Career: Michael B. Horn on Navigating Jobs, AI, and Learning, delivering practical insights on navigating the evolving workforce and the role of lifelong learning in an AI-driven world.

Spotlight on Three Remarkable Releases

Masters of Film: Not Just Any Flower

Directed by Terry deRoy Gruber under the mentorship of Martin Scorsese, this surreal short comedy explores creativity born from chaos. A whimsical journey of inspiration and miscommunication, the film is part of the Museum of Modern Art’s (MoMA) permanent collection, cementing its place as an artistic classic.

Lori Belilove Performs The Revolutionary

Planet Classroom’s collaboration with the Isadora Duncan Dance Company brings Duncan’s legacy to life for a new generation. The debut short film showcases Belilove’s emotive interpretation of Duncan’s iconic work, blending its bold choreography with a contemporary lens.

AI for a Better World: Future-Proof Your Career: Michael B. Horn on Navigating Jobs, AI, and Learning

In this insightful episode, Michael B. Horn joins C.M. (Cathy) Rubin to discuss career innovation in an AI-driven world. Horn provides actionable strategies for lifelong learning, aligning personal goals with work, and thriving in today’s evolving job market.

January’s Full Lineup

In addition to these spotlighted titles, Planet Classroom presents a diverse range of films and performances:

Lars-Erik Larsson: Concertino for Trombone and String Orchestra, Op. 45 – A stunning classical performance from Bard College’s musicians.Please in Spanish – Directed by Patricia Seely, a heartfelt exploration of cultural identity and generational connection.5678 With a Chance of a Hurricane – Directed by Gunta Liepina Millere, a silent dance film celebrating movement amidst a storm.The Other You – Directed by Wadebe, a poignant story of dissociation and mental health.An AI Revolution in Calendar Management: Reclaim AI – Directed by Helen Cotrupi, showcasing cutting-edge productivity tools.Listening to Forests, Protecting Our Future – Produced by Michael O’Shea, a documentary on innovative rainforest conservation.Street Art Icons: Pioneers and Visionaries – Directed by Nikita Harris, a visual tribute to the legends of street art.

Curation Blueprint: A Mission for Lifelong Learning and Entertainment

Planet Classroom’s January releases exemplify its commitment to presenting youth-curated content that sparks creativity and critical thinking. Each title is carefully selected to engage audiences of all ages with transformative stories and innovative ideas.

“We believe in the power of youth to lead cultural change,” said C.M. (Cathy) Rubin. “Our January curation reflects the resilience, innovation, and artistic expression of young creators and thinkers who are shaping a better future.”

About Planet Classroom Network

Planet Classroom connects young changemakers with thought leaders and innovators to inspire global solutions. Through its acclaimed series Net Zero Speaks and Problem Solvers, the platform tackles critical issues such as climate change, sustainability, and technological innovation.

Media Contact

David Wine, Planet Classroom Network, +1 (212) 439-8474, david@cmrubinworld.com, https://www.cmrubinworld.com/

View original content:https://www.prweb.com/releases/planet-classroom-masters-of-film-playlist-isadora-duncan-and-ai-career-insights-302342649.html

SOURCE Planet Classroom Network

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Xero Shoes Introduces the XB+ SmartShoe at CES 2025: Enhancing Running with Sensor-Powered Feedback

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The XB+ SmartShoe leverages sensor technology to guide runners toward optimal form and reduced injuries.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, Xero Shoes is introducing the XB+ SmartShoe, a new footwear innovation featuring sensor technology that provides real-time feedback designed to address running form and reduce the risk of injuries.

The Challenge Traditional Footwear Has Yet to Overcome

Despite 5 decades of advancements in running shoe design, injury rates among runners have remained consistent, impacting 37-56% of runners annually. Traditional shoe manufacturers often attribute this to inherent high-impact forces during running. However, research suggests otherwise, according to Xero Shoes Co-Founder and Masters All-American sprinter Steven Sashen. “Poor running form, particularly overstriding and improper landing mechanics are the main culprit, sending excessive force into the joints.”

Minimalist Footwear: A Step in the Right Direction

Minimalist shoes are often promoted as a solution to these gait-related issues. They encourage natural movement by making poor running mechanics uncomfortable, leading to instinctive adjustments for many runners. However, minimalist shoes alone may not provide enough feedback to ensure consistent improvements in form.

Introducing the XB+ SmartShoe: Technology Meets Natural Movement

The XB+ SmartShoe combines the benefits of minimalist footwear with advanced sensing technology developed in collaboration with Boogio. According to Jose Torres, Co-Founder of Boogio, “The tech layer integrates a laboratory’s worth of motion testing equipment into a sleek insole with many applications.”

The shoe delivers biofeedback signals, such as audio cues through headphones, to help runners intuitively adjust their gait. By gamifying movement adjustments, the XB+ SmartShoe aims to make learning optimal running patterns engaging and effective.

Experience the XB+ SmartShoe at CES 2025

Attendees at CES 2025 are invited to experience the XB+ SmartShoe firsthand and explore how this innovation can support better running form and injury prevention.

For media inquiries, please contact Alexa Lampasona at alexa@xeroshoes.com or call 813-817-5282.

About Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes is a leading footwear company dedicated to promoting natural, healthy movement through minimalist shoe designs. The company’s mission is to help individuals rediscover the joy of movement, free from pain and injury.

Media Contact

Alexa Lampasona, Xero Shoes, 813-817-5282, alexa@xeroshoes.com, https://xeroshoes.com/

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/xero-shoes-introduces-the-xb-smartshoe-at-ces-2025-enhancing-running-with-sensor-powered-feedback-302342473.html

SOURCE Xero Shoes

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