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Custodia Bank and Vantage Bank Issue America’s First Bank-Issued Stablecoin On A Permissionless Blockchain

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First-ever tokenization of a U.S. bank’s demand deposits on a permissionless blockchain

CHEYENNE, Wyo., March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Custodia Bank, working with Vantage Bank, yesterday completed America’s first-ever tokenization of a bank’s U.S. dollar demand deposits on a permissionless blockchain by issuing, transferring and redeeming Avit™ stablecoins for a bank customer. A new U.S. dollar payment rail has now been activated inside the U.S. banking system, at a time when the global community is increasingly demanding U.S. dollar stablecoins for transactional use.

All parties to the series of test transactions observed several efficiencies, including low transaction costs, fast transaction settlement, programmability and auditability within a safe, compliant and regulated banking environment.

The banks collaborated on the mint, transfer and redemption of Avit tokens for a bank customer on the Ethereum mainnet using the ERC-20 standard. Parties transacted in eight stages, with Vantage Bank managing the stablecoin fiat reserves and providing Fedwire/ACH services. Custodia Bank managed blockchain issuance/redemption services, custody services, blockchain transaction monitoring and reconciliation using its Avit Management System. The eight stages included transfers by the bank customer of its Avit tokens into self-custody, transacting with its Avit tokens business-to-business outside the banking system, and transferring its Avit tokens back to Custodia Bank for redemption into U.S. dollar demand deposits.

The banks complied with all applicable U.S. bank regulatory requirements, including BSA/AML/OFAC, which necessitated designing documentation, policies and procedures that differ from those of current stablecoin issuers. Both banks worked closely with their respective bank regulators to ensure the success of this first-of-its-kind project.

“We broke ground on the legal/regulatory front, proving that U.S. banks can collaborate to tokenize demand deposits on a permissionless blockchain in a regulatorily-compliant manner,” said Caitlin Long, CEO of Custodia Bank. “Custodia looks forward to the reversal of U.S. regulatory obstacles that have stymied stablecoin innovation in recent years, so that American consumers can benefit from the substantial network effects and global reach of permissionless blockchain technologies.”

Jeff Sinnott, President and CEO of Vantage Bank said, “This event marks a pivotal moment in reshaping the financial landscape, demonstrating how blockchain and stablecoins can revolutionize payments. By executing this transaction, we’re empowering banks to lead responsibly in cross-border modernization, while also leveraging the strength of the U.S. Dollar and demonstrating regulators’ support for responsible innovation.”

The transactions deployed Custodia’s patent, U.S. patent 11392906 (issued July 2022), for the tokenization of U.S. dollar bank deposits on smart-contract type permissionless blockchains.

Media Contact: press@custodiabank.com

Avit™ is a trademark of Custodia Bank, Inc.

About Custodia: Custodia Bank, Inc. is a Wyoming bank formed to serve as a compliant bridge to the U.S. dollar payments system and a custodian of digital assets that can meet the strictest level of institutional custody standards. Custodia is required to fully comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act and federal “know your customer,” anti-money laundering and related laws and regulations. Custodia also complies with Wyoming’s special purpose depository institution and digital asset laws, which include requirements that fiat deposits be 100% reserved and that Custodia meet the strictest investor protections in the digital asset industry. In 2022, the Federal Reserve deemed Custodia a depository institution eligible to maintain a Federal Reserve master account. This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

About Vantage Bank: Vantage Bank is prepared for what’s possible! We are dedicated to delivering sophisticated, innovative financial solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to the communities we serve. Headquartered in Texas, we operate across the state, with locations in Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Houston, Laredo, the Rio Grande Valley, and San Antonio. Our suite of powerful digital tools and services rivals those offered by fintechs and similar non-bank financial services companies. We operate within a safe and sound environment—providing peace of mind and the financial security that only a regulated institution can offer. By integrating advanced technology with personalized service, Vantage Bank empowers individuals and businesses to achieve their financial goals while upholding the highest standards of compliance and community engagement.

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SOURCE Vantage Bank

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Where the World Smiles Together: Honouring Hospitality on April 24

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International Hospitality Council and IIHM Lead Global Tribute to Hospitality’s Human Touch

LONDON and KOLKATA, India, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hospitality is an industry of hope and growth. It spans snow-capped mountains, sunny beaches, forests, and deserts—where dreamers, innovators, and doers work every day to deliver comfort and happiness.

On April 24, International Hospitality Day (IHD) 2025 was celebrated globally by professionals and institutions across over 60 countries. The virtual programme was hosted by the International Hospitality Council (UK) and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), India’s largest and premier multi-campus institute for hospitality education.

“I realised there’s a day for every profession – except for one dedicated to those whose mission is to bring joy to others: the hospitality industry. And so, International Hospitality Day was born on April 24,” said Dr Suborno Bose, Creator of IHD, Chairman of IHC, and Chairman of IIHM & Indismart Group, Worldwide.

Established in 2016 by the International Hospitality Council (IHC) and IIHM, IHD was born out of a shared vision between Prof. David Foskett, OBE, Chairman of IHC London, and Dr Suborno Bose. It unites hospitality, travel, and tourism professionals to exchange ideas, promote excellence, and build a spirit of global solidarity.

The IHC continues to champion the hospitality sector worldwide by encouraging collaboration, shaping forward-thinking policy, and promoting education and employment. As in previous years, this year’s celebration featured the Virtual Global Hospitality Summit, where industry leaders reflected on challenges, shared insights, and honoured hospitality’s human essence.

“There was a day for everyone,” Dr Bose reiterated, “but none for hospitality. We created that day.”
“IHD stands on three pillars: Promote, Educate, Celebrate.”

He also underscored IHC and IIHM’s commitment to sustainability, youth enterprise, and initiatives like Young Chef India, which identifies and supports the country’s top culinary student to represent India at the Young Chef Olympiad, the world’s largest gathering of student chefs.

Prof. David Foskett, OBE, echoed the spirit of IHD:

“Hospitality is simple. Speak from the heart. Make people happy. Create careers and contribute to the economy. Most importantly, say thank you – especially to our students.”
“A country without hospitality is barren. A country with hospitality is fertile.”

Two key panel discussions were held during the summit:

Hospitality in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Moderated by Prof. Neil Rippington (International Director, IIHM), with speakers:Ms Riya Mittal, Product Manager and MSc Engineering Management, USCMr Michael Grove, CEO – HotstatsMs Alexandra Janosek, Instructional Designer, Worldwide Curriculum DesignProf. Sandip Mukherjee, Professor Emeritus – IIHM

While technology is revolutionising efficiency and guest experience, the panel agreed that the essence of hospitality—its heart and human touch—remains irreplaceable.

Hospitality: India’s New Growth Story
Moderated by Diwan Gautam Anand, President of the IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows, the panel featured:Mr K Mohan Chandran, Sr Vice President Operations, Taj HotelsMichelin-starred Chef Chris GalvinMr Yogendra Agnihotri, Sr Regional Director (North and East), Radisson HotelsMs Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC & President, TAAIMr Rajiv Kapoor, GM, Fairmont Mumbai

The consensus: India is setting a global example by listening, innovating, and serving from the heart—because, as noted, “an unhappy customer doesn’t complain, she simply leaves.”

The celebration paused for a moment of silence in memory of those lost in the Pahalgam tragedy.

Diwan Gautam Anand, iconic hospitality leader and President of FIIHM, closed the summit with a poignant message:

“Thank you for being present on such a landmark day. It is dedicated to all of us who know that time doesn’t erase, it transforms.”

This year’s IHD also witnessed the induction of 65 new Esteemed Fellows into the IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows (FIIHM). Guided by the motto Fiat Lux (Let there be light), FIIHM is committed to mentoring and shaping future hospitality leaders.

The selection panel included:

Prof. David Foskett, OBE, Chairman – IHC LondonDr Suborno Bose, Chairman – IHC & IIHMMr Ron Scott FIH, International Director, Indismart Group; Director/Secretary, IHC Foundation; Director, APIU Global Limited, UKMr Nakul Anand, Former Executive Director, ITC LtdDiwan Gautam Anand, President, IIHM International College of Distinguished Fellows

Special awards were presented to honour excellence and dedication in the industry. Icons from around the globe extended their wishes.

“This is to express gratitude to Suborno Bose for coining today as International Hospitality Day,” said Mr Puneet Baijal, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad (FIIHM). “IIHM has become an integral part of the industry, and its students are among the best.”

Mr K Mohan Chandran, Sr Vice President Operations, IHCL (FIIHM 2025), stated, “This day honours the global fraternity of hospitality professionals and acknowledges the dedication of team members who make guests feel at home.”

Chef Garry Mclean, the first National Chef of Scotland (FIIHM), added, “Let’s raise a glass to the dedication and resilience of those who make this industry what it is – from chefs to servers to housekeeping staff.”

The World’s Warmest Industry truly had its day. But hospitality is not just about one day—it’s about every day. IHD has become one of the largest global celebrations of unity and inclusivity – a tribute to the human spirit in a world that needs many helpings of kindness to be satiated and at peace.

Contact: Mr. Sujay Gupta, +91 9923057937

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2673903/World_Smiles_Together.jpg

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ARBOR Technology to Showcase Latest Automation Solutions at Automate 2025, Powering Machine Vision, AMR, and Smart Retail Applications

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DETROIT, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ARBOR Technology, a leading provider of industrial-grade embedded computing solutions, is excited to announce its participation in Automate 2025, taking place in Detroit, USA, from May 12–15. Located in Hall E, Booth #9126.

Engineered for advanced automation tasks, the FPC-5211 supports powerful edge computing for real-time data processing and AI inference. Ideal for machine vision and smart city applications, it handles data from multiple sources—LiDAR, industrial cameras, traffic sensors—with low latency and high efficiency. This platform recently earned the Best in Show award from Embedded Computing Design at Embedded World 2025.

Designed for flexible industrial deployment, the ARES-1983H series features a din-rail mount and EzIO modular I/O system, allowing customers to easily customize configurations for factory automation, process control, and machine interfacing.

ARBOR introduces the ARTS-1670 and SB-244-RPLU for autonomous mobile robots (AMR) and automated guided vehicles (AGV). Engineered for performance and durability, these systems meet the rigorous demands of real-time navigation, sensor integration, and operational control in dynamic environments.

Built for real-time video and language model (VLM) applications, the AEC-6100 delivers top-tier AI performance at the edge. Ideal for smart surveillance, automated inspection, and robotics, it reduces latency and enhances on-site processing without compromising security.

Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, the IEC-3714 delivers 34 TOPS of AI performance in NUC size. It supports real-time video analytics for age, gender, and object recognition, enabling automated decision-making for promotions, restocking, and customer engagement.

With its MediaTek MT8781 processor and Android 14 OS, the Ruby 10 is built for mobility, featuring Wi-Fi 6E, 4G connectivity, and hot-swappable batteries for 24/7 operation. Designed for retail and logistics, it supports NFC payments, and has IP65 and 1.2m drop certifications for dependable performance in harsh environments.

ARBOR will also unveil its latest Computer-on-Module solution, offering exceptional computing scalability based on Intel’s Core Ultra and Arrow Lake platforms. These modules are optimized for embedded applications requiring compact, high-performance solutions with broad customization options.

Stanley, General Manager of ARBOR Solution, commented: “We are proud to return to Automate 2025 with a strong lineup of automation-focused solutions. Our innovations not only address the needs of traditional industrial applications but also support emerging technologies like AI and edge computing.”

Automate 2025
Detroit, Huntington Place
May 12-15
Hall E – #9126

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SOURCE ARBOR Technology

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Yiwugo App Sees Overseas Downloads Surge as Hiking Poles and Fitness Equipment Sales Skyrocket

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YIWU, China, April 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yiwugo.com, the official website of the Yiwu Commodity Market, is the largest commodity wholesale market in the world. Since April 14, 2025, the downloads of the Yiwugo app has surged by 200% in the Trending and Top Free charts of Google Play, driven by international tariff policy adjustments. The app has climbed into the top 30—and even top 10—download rankings across shopping app lists in countries such as the U.S., France, and Malaysia. Many merchants on the platform have reported a notable increase in direct inquiries from international buyers.

According to the Yiwu Index, the outdoor and leisure product sales in Yiwu market exceeded 2 billion yuan in 2024, maintaining an annual growth rate of approximately 9%, underscoring significant market potential. As an emerging sector, outdoor sports equipment has demonstrated robust performance in both domestic and international markets.

Big data analysis conducted by Yiwugo also reveals that transaction volumes for hiking poles doubled year-on-year between January 1 and April 1, 2025. Growing enthusiasm for mountaineering, hiking, and skiing has fueled domestic demand, while markets in Europe, the U.S., Russia, and Malaysia have also driven a spike in orders. Additionally, the National Health Commission’s advocacy for balanced diets and weight management has sparked a wave of purchases for fitness and weight-loss equipment across China.

Zhu Jinming, owner of Haoyang Outdoor Articles Firm which has specialized in mid-to-high-end hiking poles for over two decades, noted a steady rise in orders from clients in Russia and Brazil since 2021. One long-term Russian client, purchasing from Haoyang since 2007, now places annual orders exceeding 1 million yuan. The durable materials and reliable after-sales service of the company keep clients returning, even after trying other suppliers.

Similarly, Haoyang also performs well in the domestic market, with an average of around 500 cases per scenic spot  during peak tourist seasons like “May Day” at destinations such us Mount Huangshan and Mount Sanqingshan.

Yan Peng, founder of Linuo Vanguard Sport, has been a stalwart in Yiwu for over two decades, serving clients primarily from Europe, North America, and beyond. The company’s flagship products—dumbbells, barbells, and exercise bikes—have become synonymous with quality. By investing hundreds of yuan more per ton in chrome plating to ensure rust resistance, or adding an extra inner cloth layer to sandbags to prevent leakage, Linuo has cemented clients’ trust over 20 years. This dedication has also drawn growing recognition through the Yiwugo platform and word-of-mouth referrals.

One Spanish client family spanning two generations has collaborated with Yan for nearly eight years. Since partnering with Linuo, their order volume has doubled, with each shipment now amounting to at least one container.

Domestically, Yan notes a clear surge in sales of home fitness equipment like dumbbells, barbells, and competition bikes, driven by China’s national push for fitness and weight management. “Purchasing trends are shifting toward more professional-grade gear,” he observes.

The philosophy of embracing nature and prioritizing health has transcended elite circles, evolving into a lifestyle embraced by billions worldwide. As transaction figures pulse on the Yiwugo platform in early 2025, they may well hint at the blueprint of the next global trend.

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SOURCE Yiwugo.com

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