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R.J. O’Brien Agrees to Acquisition by StoneX Group

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Combination Strengthens Firms’ Position as a Leading Futures Brokerage and Clearing Firm 

CHICAGO and NEW YORK, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — R.J. O’Brien & Associates (RJO), the oldest futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, announced today that its parent company has reached a definitive agreement with StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX), to merge all of RJO’s global businesses into StoneX, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Upon the closing of the transaction, anticipated in the third quarter of this year, the combined firm will become a leading futures commission merchant (FCM) in the U.S., enhancing its role in the global financial market structure.

StoneX is a Fortune 100 company with operations in six continents and a market capitalization of over $3.5 billion. Privately held R.J. O’Brien has offices and affiliates in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. 

Sean O’Connor, Executive Vice-Chairman of StoneX, said: “This is a transformational transaction for StoneX, establishing us as a leading global derivatives clearing firm and reinforcing our position as an integral part of the global market structure across asset classes. Combining R.J. O’Brien’s extensive client network and proven clearing capabilities with StoneX’s deep liquidity, innovative OTC hedging solutions and leading risk management infrastructure, we are well-positioned to continue to deliver exceptional services, broader market access and industry-leading solutions to our combined client base. We are very pleased that Gerry Corcoran, who has been the CEO and driving force behind RJO, will continue on with StoneX in a senior leadership role.” 

RJO Chairman and CEO Gerry Corcoran said: “We’re extraordinarily excited about this partnership between two great companies that each bring over a century of history in the futures industry and complementary capabilities, products, services and cultures. We both prioritize a profound commitment to our clients and a focus on prudent risk management. RJO’s clients will continue to enjoy the same enduring relationships with the brokers they know so well and the high level of service they know they can expect from us. In addition to all the products we offer today, our clients and brokers will have a plethora of new products and services across asset classes available at their fingertips, bringing meaningful new trading and hedging opportunities. At the same time, our organization will benefit from new efficiencies, premier technologies and greater growth potential.” 

Speaking on behalf of the O’Brien family, the majority shareholders in RJO, Board member Bob O’Brien, Jr. said: “This transaction is the right step to take for all of our stakeholders to ensure we carry on the values that have made the firm successful while putting us in the strongest position to compete and meet the challenges of the evolving financial landscape. StoneX was founded just 10 years after my grandfather, John V. McCarthy, started our firm in 1914. Like RJO, it was one of the earliest clearing members of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. So many of our family members have been privileged to lead the company and provide guidance and counsel. We feel so close to our clients, brokers and employees; they’re extended family to us. This merger is the natural next step in the history of the company, and the O’Brien family is enthusiastic about playing a new role as major shareholders in another great company that will build on that legacy.”   

RJO Board member John O’Brien, Jr. said: “My father, John O’Brien, Sr. – and his father before him, Robert J. O’Brien, Sr. – led the firm to new heights. My dad worked harder than anyone I have ever met, and his focus on integrity and profound impact on the business were matched only by how much he loved to talk about and spend time with RJO’s clients, brokers and amazing employees. He would be the number one advocate for this transaction because it makes so much sense for all of our stakeholders – from employees and brokers to clients and shareholders. My father always said, ‘If you’re not growing, you’re dying.’ Gerry has done an incredible job leading the company and driving growth for over two decades while remaining true to our family’s principles. He found just the right home for us with StoneX. Both RJO and StoneX have remained leaders in the industry, evolving with the times and expanding to ensure clients were best served. Moving forward together is the best way to stay a leader in this space and operate at an even higher level.” 

Broadhaven Capital Partners is serving as exclusive financial advisor to RJO, and Mayer Brown LLP is serving as its legal advisor. 

The StoneX announcement about the transaction can be found at https://ir.stonex.com/press-releases. StoneX will host a conference call to discuss the transaction today at 9:00 a.m. Eastern time. A live web cast of the conference call as well as additional information to review during the call will be made available in PDF form on-line on the StoneX corporate web site at https://register.vevent.com/register/BIe20141cf7fd043c89fde461964a3582e approximately ten minutes prior to the start time. Participants may preregister for the conference call here.

About R.J. O’Brien 

Founded in 1914, R.J. O’Brien & Associates is the oldest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States, serving more than 75,000 institutional, commercial and individual clients globally, in addition to a network of approximately 300 introducing brokers (IBs). RJO services the industry’s most expansive global network of IBs, a vast array of middle market firms and many of the world’s largest financial, industrial and agricultural institutions. The firm offers state-of-the-art electronic trading and 24-hour trade execution on every major futures exchange worldwide. RJO received the FOW International Award for Non-Bank FCM of the Year for five consecutive years, and the firm and its UK affiliate have earned eight honors from the HFM Global publications (now With Intelligence) in recent years. 

About StoneX Group Inc. 

StoneX Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates a global financial services network that connects companies, organizations, traders and investors to the global market ecosystem through a unique blend of digital platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution services, high touch service and deep expertise. The Company strives to be the one trusted partner to its clients, providing its network, product and services to allow them to pursue trading opportunities, manage their market risks, make investments and improve their business performance. A Fortune 100 company headquartered in New York City and listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ:SNEX), StoneX Group Inc. and its more than 4,400 employees serve more than 54,000 commercial, institutional, and payments clients, and more than 400,000 retail accounts, from more than 70 offices spread across six continents. Further information on the Company is available at www.stonex.com.  

 

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Bybit and St. Paul American Scholars School Furthers Partnership Commitment in Bybit’s HQ Visit

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DUBAI, UAE, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, extended a warm welcome to an international delegation from the St. Paul American Scholars (SPAS), a top international school in Korea on Monday. The visit is part of a joint initiative between Bybit and SPAS dedicated to fostering the next generation of blockchain innovators through a series of academic and educational programs.

Ryan Kim, Head of SPAS, and Jinny Kim, Director of SPAS, were greeted by Helen Liu, COO of Bybit at the Bybit headquarters in Dubai. The official visit underscores the institutions’ shared commitment to building the partnership from the ground up, and creating a knowledge base to prepare SPAS students for the future of technology and the blockchain-enabled economy.

In the academic year of 2025/26, Bybit has committed a $100,000 scholarship to 300 SPAS students of St. Paul American Scholars (SPAS). The broader theme of the collaboration centers on collective learning and community sharing, which aligns with SPAS’s philosophy of building a closely knitted community for educators, parents, and students. Bybit will organize interactive educational sessions on campus to fill the knowledge gap between the demands for future-ready skills and traditional academic resources.

The fast moving blockchain landscape is central to a changing world. Parents and students today are increasingly aware of the possibilities and potential challenges of the dawning on-chain economy. The new dynamics will require creators and contributors to be equipped with understanding of blockchain technologies, to develop their passion, and to project their creativity onto positive causes. Through workshops and interactive events, the Bybit and SPAS initiative stands to leave a profound impact on blockchain education for international students in SPAS. 

SPAS representatives boarded the crypto express to the world of digital assets at the Bybit headquarters, sharing unique perspectives as educators and first-hand insights from Liu at the frontier of the digital economy.

“We are proud to welcome the SPAS family to Bybit’s headquarters, and we hope this will become the starting point of SPAS students’ blockchain journey. The value of blockchain education is not only giving students a headstart in understanding the digital economy, but also to inspire them to think about changing the world for the better with a powerful technology that will one day be entirely at their disposal,” said Helen Liu, COO of Bybit.

“It is a great honor for Saint Paul International School to establish a meaningful partnership with Bybit, a global leader in blockchain technology. This visit to Bybit’s headquarters in Dubai was more than just a meeting; it was a precious opportunity to build a foundation of deep mutual trust,” said Ryan Kim, Head of SPAS. “Bybit’s warm-hearted commitment to providing scholarships for Saint Paul International School students and planning continuous social contribution programs deeply moved us all. We firmly believe that, with its sincere vision and values, Bybit will continue to shine as a world-leading company,” he said.

The SPAS delegation toured the Bybit Crypto Ark Experience Store, a new venue at Bybit’s Dubai headquarters that showcases blockchain innovation and provides an open space for crypto collaborations. Since opening, the store has attracted hundreds of visitors, entrepreneurs, and crypto enthusiasts contributing to the regional ecosystem.

Established in 2015, SPAS operates four campuses across Korea’s major metropolitan areas and is recognized as a leading American educational institution with full accreditation from multiple organizations. SPAS also offers international exchange programs through partnerships with schools in New York, Canada, and the UK, providing students with opportunities to experience diverse cultures and global perspectives.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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Google Cloud AI Helps Formula E in Groundbreaking ‘Mountain Recharge’ Energy Feat

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GENBETA car completes Monaco E-Prix lap powered solely by regenerative braking after AI-planned mountain descent; the feat was filmed and produced by Red Bull Media House

MONTE CARLO, Monaco and LONDON, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a daring demonstration enabled by Google Cloud’s AI capabilities, Formula E successfully charged its GENBETA prototype race car using only regenerative braking during a 1,000-vertical-meter mountain descent – generating enough energy to complete a full lap of the iconic Circuit de Monaco. Leveraging the Gemini API via Google AI Studio, Formula E planned the optimal “Mountain Recharge” route down a French alpine pass, analyzing data in real time to maximize energy recuperation.

The groundbreaking “Mountain Recharge” project, undertaken in collaboration with Google Cloud, Formula E’s Official Cloud Technology Services Partner and Official Cloud Security Partner, highlights the significant energy efficiency of Formula E vehicles. During races, the competing cars must regenerate approximately 40% of their required energy through braking. 

The challenge involved the GENBETA car descending the Col de Braus mountain road in “free-wheel mode”, starting with only minimal energy for system power-up. Driven by Formula E Test Driver James Rossiter, the car successfully generated the 1.6 to 2.0 kWh needed for the 3.337 km Monaco lap solely through gravity and optimized braking – equivalent to fully charging nearly 60 Google Pixel 9 Pro XL devices. The feat was filmed and produced by Red Bull Media House.

To determine the feasibility and plan the execution of the “Mountain Recharge” Formula E utilized several Google Cloud technologies:

Google AI Studio: The Gemini API via Google AI Studio was used to analyze the complex variables of the descent. The AI model helped identify and analyze optimal braking zones, calculate the impact of speed-to-weight ratios and gravitational forces, and refine driving angles to maximize energy regeneration.BigQuery: Google Cloud’s unified, serverless data to AI platform collected, stored, and analyzed real-time telemetry data transmitted from the car during the descent, providing crucial insights for verification and analysis.Firebase: Google Cloud’s application development platform, Firebase was used to rapidly build and host the intuitive dashboard application that allowed race engineers to visualize real-time car telemetry data from BigQuery on their Chromebooks and Pixel devices.NotebookLM: Google’s AI-powered research and writing assistant, NotebookLM, was used throughout the project lifecycle to consolidate technical specifications, logistical plans, and engineering data, streamlining collaboration between Formula E and Google Cloud teams.

Alex Aidan, VP Marketing, Formula E said: 

“This isn’t just another attention grabbing racing story – it’s a case study in how high-efficiency regeneration and cloud-based AI can revolutionise how we think about mobility, energy optimisation and sustainability. The challenge we faced illustrates the kind of real-world problems Google Cloud’s technology and that of our wider partner group can solve – whether it’s regenerative braking for road cars, dynamic route planning for delivery fleets, or efficient energy management in smart cities. It’s about developing technology that is designed to handle everyday circumstances and engineered to outrun. 

“At Formula E and with the GENBETA project, we’re all about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and doing things others have never dreamed of. The way our partnership with Google Cloud has rapidly evolved and our longstanding relationship with ABB not only shows the potential for technology to transform racing, but how global brands are bringing their narratives and products to life through impactful collaboration.

Guillaume Roques, Senior Director, EMEA Marketing, Google Cloud said: “Google Cloud thrives on helping partners solve unique challenges with data and AI, and the ‘Mountain Recharge’ project is a fantastic demonstration of how AI can tackle complex, real-world challenges. Using our technologies, we were able to model the intricate physics of the descent and precisely calculate the regeneration potential. This isn’t just about race cars; it’s about how our AI capabilities can help any organization optimize for efficiency and sustainability by turning data into actionable insights.”

For more information you can watch the video here and read more in our blog post here

Supporting Partners:
The GENBETA project and the ‘Mountain Recharge’ were also supported by GENBETA partners ABB, Hankook and SABIC.

About Formula E and the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship: 

As the world’s first all-electric FIA World Championship and the only sport certified net zero carbon since inception, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship brings dramatic racing to the heart of some of the world’s most iconic cities providing an elite motorsport platform for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers to accelerate electric vehicle innovation. 

The Formula E network of teams, manufacturers, partners, broadcasters, and host cities are united by a passion for the sport and belief in its potential to accelerate sustainable human progress and create a better future for people and planet. 

www.FIAFormulaE.com 

About ABB: 

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 105,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com 

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud is the new way to the cloud, providing AI, infrastructure, developer, data, security, and collaboration tools built for today and tomorrow. Google Cloud offers a powerful, fully integrated and optimized AI stack with its own planet-scale infrastructure, custom-built chips, generative AI models and development platform, as well as AI-powered applications, to help organizations transform. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted technology partner.

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SOURCE Google Cloud

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Poets&Quants™ Names Best & Brightest MBAs of 2025

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Annual feature celebrates graduating business students for achievement and influence

SAN FRANCISCO, May 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Poets&Quants, the leading news source for graduate business education, has released its 11th annual Best & Brightest MBAs feature, which honors 100 of the most accomplished full-time MBAs from the Class of 2025.

“This year’s class could be described as more female and more international, with a stronger military presence,” says Jeff Schmitt, Poets&Quants’ senior writer, who launched the series in 2015. “What really distinguished Best & Brightest students this year was that they built things. They launched ventures early in their careers or started clubs or events at their business schools. They weren’t trying to maintain what already existed or follow the usual paths. They were creating something new – and they provided others with enrichment and opportunities as a result.”

This 2025 class features MBA graduates including Wharton School’s Simi Shah, a successful entrepreneur who has been invited to the White House twice and made the 2025 Forbes “30 Under 30” in Media. Mark O’Connell, a graduate of the University of Michigan’s Ross School, helped re-write the U.S. Maines combat training curriculum – and Ohio State’s Kyle Schembechler did the same for the U.S. Field Artillery School. At the University of Virginia’s Darden School, Amanda Golden has transitioned from covering the 2020 presidential election for NBC News to becoming a venture capitalist. By the same token, Evan Rizvi made the leap from opera singer to strategist at Boston University’s Questrom School.

To compile this year’s Best & Brightest MBAs, Poets&Quants reached out to 82 top graduate business schools worldwide to nominate their best candidates for the honor. Responses were judged by P&Q editorial according to four criteria: extracurricular involvement, academic and professional achievements, insightful responses, and faculty recommendations. Ultimately, P&Q received 220 nominations, including submissions from elite institutions ranging from INSEAD to the University of Chicago’s Booth School. By gender, Best & Brightest women outnumber men by a 60-to-40 margin, with 54 students hailing from outside the United States. The Boston Consulting Group also hired 8 Best & Brightest MBAs from the Class of 2025, the most of any employer.

As part of this feature, each MBA receives an in-depth profile, which covers subjects ranging from their proudest achievement to their favorite business movie. Over the coming months, Best & Brightest will also spotlight the best student responses related topics like their favorite faculty members, biggest school myths, and most interesting school traditions. 

The “Best & Brightest MBAs” is the second of a four-part series recognizing the world’s top business students. In April, Poets&Quants For Undergrads unveiled its 100 Best & Brightest Undergraduate Business Majors of 2025. This summer, Poets&Quants will also recognize its “Best & Brightest Executive MBAs” and “Best & Brightest Online MBAs.” In the fall, P&Q will continue its “Meet the Class” series that highlights the top incoming full-time MBA students at over 40 top business schools.

To read about the “100 Best & Brightest MBAs: Class of 2025”, CLICK HERE.

Poets&Quants, a part of Times Higher Education, is the leading resource for complete coverage of graduate business education. We feature multiple tools and authoritative content, including consolidated business school rankings, news and in-depth features, videos, podcasts, searchable directories, and events, empowering our community with information needed to make decisions along their journey from pre- to post-MBA.

Media Contact: Sat Sharma
Chief Revenue Officer
Poets & Quants
(917) 763-4088

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

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