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Chow Tai Fook Unveils Its First Global Flagship Store in Hong Kong

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Redefining Luxury Through Immersive Experience

HONG KONG, May 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On May 15, 2026, Chow Tai Fook, a leading global Chinese jewellery house, unveils its first global flagship store on Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Conceived as “Home of Chow Tai Fook,” the store blends nearly a century of heritage with contemporary aesthetics, showcasing the beauty of China to the world through jewellery.

Chow Tai Fook First Global Flagship Store
Chow Tai Fook First Global Flagship Store

Chow Tai Fook first global flagship store spanning around 10,000 square feet, it is the group’s largest store in the Hong Kong and Macau market. The store features the Heritage Pavilion, celebrating Chow Tai Fook’s journey and the artisanal heritage that has shaped the Brand since its founding. Spanning from 1929 to the present, it highlights collaborations with leading institutions to research and preserve hammering, filigree, and other ancient gold jewellery techniques, ensuring these time-honoured skills remain a living legacy for the future.

A Gold Ginkgo Tree stands as an iconic presence of the flagship store, measuring 2.1 metres tall and 2.3 metres wide. Its leaves and branches are cast in pure gold, weighing nearly 40,000 grams in total. A testament to Chow Tai Fook’s technical mastery, the tree was crafted by nearly 50 artisans in around 60,000 hours.

As the first global Chinese jewellery brand to enter the luxury home category, the Brand is bringing its mastery of fine craftsmanship to objects designed to enrich home décor. Developed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed brand, Bernardaud — the venerable French porcelain maison — Chow Tai Fook Home’s tableware Rouge Collection brings together world-class artisanal traditions with a contemporary design language. This expansion reinforces the Brand positioning in the global luxury landscape, while integrating the brand more deeply into customers’ daily lives.

The space includes a newly introduced concierge service and redesigned interiors aimed at creating a more structured and service-led in-store journey.

The opening of Chow Tai Fook’s first global flagship store marks a pivotal milestone in the Brand’s strategic evolution, embodying its artisanal mastery and cultural depth while offering a fresh and contemporary vision of Chinese luxury. Every visit is transformed into an immersive encounter with the Brand’s rich history, exceptional craftsmanship, and oriental aesthetics, redefining the luxury retail experience on a global stage.

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Atisama Therapeutics Advances RB042 into Multiple Ascending Dose cohorts of Phase 1 Trial and Appoints Bernard Coulie as Chair of the Board

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  • RB042 Phase 1 trial advances into multiple ascending dose study cohorts, demonstrating safety and tolerability to date.
  • Dr. Coulie brings more than 25 years of international biopharma leadership and deep expertise in pulmonary disease to the Atisama Board of Directors.

MELBOURNE, Australia, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Atisama Therapeutics (formerly Rage Bio) (“Atisama” or the “Company”), an Australian clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel splice-switching oligonucleotide (SSO) therapeutics for chronic inflammatory disease, today reported progress in the Phase 1 study of its lead candidate, RB042, and announced the appointment of Dr. Bernard Coulie as Chair of the Board of Directors.

RB042 Phase 1 Clinical Update
The RB042 Phase 1 study (RB042_1001; NCT07285122), evaluating RB042 in healthy volunteers and healthy smokers, has advanced to multi-dose ascending (MAD) cohorts, and continues to demonstrate safety and tolerability. Three of four single ascending dose (SAD) cohorts are complete, and the first MAD cohort has been initiated, with higher-dose cohorts expected to readout in H2 2026.

RB042 clinical progress is tracking to plan. Safety and tolerability across three SAD cohorts have supported advancement into MAD dosing. Higher-dose cohorts may provide early insights into target engagement to inform future development, with readouts expected later this year,” said Dr. Ed Tucker, Chief Medical and Development Officer.

Appointment of Bernard Coulie as Chair of the Board
Dr. Coulie joins Atisama at a pivotal moment, as RB042 advances through early clinical development and the Company prepares for its next phase of growth.

Dr. Coulie currently serves as President and CEO of Pliant Therapeutics (NASDAQ: PLRX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of integrin-based therapies, and holds board positions at several global biotech companies. His career includes senior executive roles at Johnson & Johnson and Actogenix. He has founded and led companies across a range of therapeutic areas, with particular expertise in pulmonary disease, directly relevant to Atisama’s lead clinical programme.

As Chair, Dr. Coulie brings deep governance experience and operational leadership to the Atisama Board, with clinical, scientific and commercial acumen that aligns directly with the Company’s mission.

Bernard brings exactly the strategic depth and governance experience we need as we scale and advance our pipeline toward later-stage clinical development. His track record in pulmonary disease, his experience building companies, and his strong relationships across the global investment community make him an exceptional addition to our Board. We are delighted to welcome him,” said Dr. Siro Perez, Chief Executive and Scientific Officer.

Atisama is working on a genuinely differentiated scientific approach to one of the most important unmet needs in respiratory medicine. The biology is compelling, the team is strong, and the clinical progress to date is highly encouraging. I am excited to join the Board and to support the Company as it moves through the clinic and into its next chapter,” said Dr. Bernard Coulie, Chair of the Board.

About Atisama Therapeutics
Atisama Therapeutics Pty Ltd (ACN 640 194 770, formerly Rage Bio Pty Ltd) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel splice-switching oligonucleotide (SSO) therapies for inflammatory disease. Founded on the principle of restoring molecular balance for lasting health, the Company’s SSO platform is producing drug candidates that down-regulate disease-driving isoforms and upregulates their protective counterparts; a dual-action mechanism unique to the SSO modality. Atisama’s lead asset, RB042, is an inhaled SSO currently in Phase 1 clinical development. Atisama has several other programmes leveraging the novel SSO platform. The Company is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia.

About RB042
RB042 is an inhaled splice-switching oligonucleotide (SSO) targeting the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-products (RAGE), a genetically validated driver of inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). RB042 redirects pre-mRNA expression to the protective soluble esRAGE isoform over pro-inflammatory membrane-bound mRAGE, potentially shifting the isoform balance disrupted in disease. RB042 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1 study (RB042_1001; NCT07285122) in healthy volunteers and healthy smokers across single ascending dose and multiple ascending dose cohorts. COPD affects approximately 400 million people globally and is the third leading cause of death; approximately 70% of patients are non-eosinophilic and lack a targeted therapeutic option. RB042 is being developed across all COPD endotypes, with additional indications under evaluation.

For more information, visit www.atisama.com or contact media@atisama.com

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Malaysia Healthcare Week Myanmar 2026 Opens in Yangon with Leading Hospitals Showcasing Specialised Care for Myanmar Patients

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YANGON, Myanmar and KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Malaysia Healthcare Week Yangon 2026 is officially launched today at Park Royal Yangon, bringing together leading Malaysian hospitals to connect directly with Myanmar patients, healthcare professionals, and industry partners. The four-day initiative, led by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), comes amid a 117% increase in the number of Myanmar health tourists who travelled to Malaysia for treatment in 2025.

From left: Mr Muhd Hairi Bin Zainal Abidin, Trade Commissioner of MATRADE’s ASEAN & Oceania Section; Mr Hew Tse Hou, Chargé d’Affaires of the Malaysian Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar; and Mr Lokman Izam Abd Aziz, MHTC’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications during the launch of Malaysia Healthcare Week Yangon 2026 at Park Royal Yangon on 15 May 2026.
From left: Mr Muhd Hairi Bin Zainal Abidin, Trade Commissioner of MATRADE’s ASEAN & Oceania Section; Mr Hew Tse Hou, Chargé d’Affaires of the Malaysian Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar; and Mr Lokman Izam Abd Aziz, MHTC’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications during the launch of Malaysia Healthcare Week Yangon 2026 at Park Royal Yangon on 15 May 2026.

Held at Park Royal Yangon from 14 to 17 May 2026, the initiative is part of Malaysia’s broader efforts under the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026 campaign, themed Healing Meets Hospitality, which aims to position Malaysia as the preferred global destination for medical tourism.

The event brings together leading Malaysian healthcare providers, including the National Heart Institute (IJN), Subang Jaya Medical Centre, Alpha IVF, Sunway Medical Centre Penang, Prince Court Medical Centre, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, and KPJ Healthcare Group, showcasing Malaysia’s comprehensive range of specialised treatments and patient-centred care.

The initiative comes at a time of rising demand for healthcare services abroad among Myanmar patients. In 2025, the number of health tourists from Myanmar grew by 117%, from 2,901 to 6,285, while the total number of healthcare travellers exceeded 44,000 — reflecting growing confidence in cross-border healthcare and in Malaysia’s capabilities as a trusted destination.

MHTC’s Chief Executive Officer, Suriaghandi Suppiah, said the initiative reflects Malaysia’s long-term commitment to the region.

“Myanmar patients are choosing Malaysia because they trust our clinical standards and the care experience we provide. Malaysia Healthcare Week Yangon is about deepening that trust — connecting patients with our best hospitals and specialists, and building partnerships that ensure seamless, quality care long after the event ends,” said Suppiah.

The programme features moderated forums with hospital leaders, insurers, and healthcare administrators; a session addressing embassy officials, expatriate communities, and NGOs; and a Malaysia-Myanmar Clinical Exchange dinner bringing together the medical fraternity from both countries. The weekend’s public-facing health expo will offer free consultations and health talks on men’s and women’s health, wellness, and longevity.

Malaysia Healthcare Week Yangon 2026 is part of a series of regional activations under MYMT 2026. As Malaysia expands its healthcare travel outreach across Southeast Asia, the initiative reinforces the country’s position as a trusted long-term healthcare partner — where Healing Meets Hospitality.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Mohamad Shahizam Fauzi
Head, Communications
+603 8776 6168
shahizam.f@mhtc.org.my 

Siti Hamidah Mohd Najib
Senior Executive, Communications
+603 8776 6168
hamidah.m@mhtc.org.my 

About Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council

Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), established in 2009 under the purview of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia, is entrusted with developing and nurturing the “Malaysia Healthcare” brand. MHTC enhances, coordinates, and promotes Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry by fostering industry collaborations and building valuable public-private partnerships both domestically and internationally. With 80 member hospitals nationwide, MHTC continues to elevate the healthcare travel ecosystem through strong branding, seamless patient experiences, and strategic market initiatives. In line with these efforts, MHTC is spearheading the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism (MYMT) 2026, the nation’s first dedicated year to celebrate and advance healthcare travel. MYMT 2026 serves as a milestone initiative to showcase Malaysia’s world-class healthcare offerings, strengthen its position as the premier global healthcare destination, and highlight the industry’s significant contribution to the national economy.

More information can be found at https://www.malaysiahealthcare.org.

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SwitchBot Launches Lock Vision Series, the World’s First Smart Deadbolt Locks with 3D Structured-Light Facial Recognition

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TOKYO, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SwitchBot, a leading provider of smart home automation and embodied AI products, today announced the launch of the SwitchBot Lock Vision Series in North America, consisting of SwitchBot Lock Vision and SwitchBot Lock Vision Pro.

SwitchBot Lock Vision Series
SwitchBot Lock Vision Series

Designed to elevate smart home entry, the Lock Vision Series is the world’s first smart deadbolt lock equipped with advanced 3D structured-light faiacial recognition technology, delivering faster, safer, and more effortless unlocking for modern households.

Inspired by the same core technology used in flagship smartphones, the Lock Vision Series projects over 20,000 infrared points to create highly accurate 3D facial maps capable of millimeter-level recognition. The system unlocks doors in under one second while effectively resisting spoofing attempts using photos or videos. Unlike traditional fingerprint-based solutions, the technology works reliably even when users are wearing glasses, hats, wigs, or makeup.

Smarter, Hands-Free Unlocking for Every Household

The Lock Vision Series offers multiple unlock methods, including 3D facial recognition, app control, NFC cards, passwords, voice assistants, smartwatch control, auto-unlock via geo-fencing, and physical keys.

SwitchBot Lock Vision Pro further expands biometric access with contactless palm vein recognition and semiconductor fingerprint unlocking. Using near-infrared sensing technology, palm vein recognition enables users to unlock doors without touching the device, even when hands are wet, dirty, or difficult to scan with conventional fingerprint readers.

By storing all biometric information locally with AES-128 encrypted communication, the Lock Vision Series prioritizes both privacy and security.

Built for Long-Term Reliability

To reduce concerns around battery anxiety and lockouts, the Lock Vision Series features SwitchBot’s DualPower™ and DualBackup™ systems. A built-in 10,000mAh rechargeable battery can power the lock for up to 12 months on a single charge under typical usage conditions, while an additional CR123A backup battery provides up to 500 emergency unlocks. In emergency situations, users can also temporarily power the device via the USB-C emergency power port (the port provides temporary power and does not charge the lock).

To further improve power efficiency, the lock utilizes mmWave radar detection, activating biometric recognition only when someone approaches the door. The SwitchBot app also provides real-time battery monitoring and low-battery notifications.

Matter-over-WiFi Connectivity Without a Hub

The Lock Vision Series supports Matter-over-WiFi, allowing users to connect directly with supported smart home ecosystems without requiring an additional Matter-enabled hub. The locks are designed to work with Apple Home and integrate naturally with the broader SwitchBot ecosystem*.

When paired with other SwitchBot products, the Lock Vision Series enables expanded smart home experiences. Combined with the SwitchBot Smart Video Doorbell, users can monitor activity outside the door, remotely unlock for visitors, and automate entry workflows. With Wallet Finder Card integration, users can also use the tracking card as an NFC key for unlocking the door.

*Users are not able to access/retrieve/manage any biometric information on any third-party platforms, as all the biometric information is stored locally

Secure, Durable, and Designed for Real Homes

The Lock Vision Series incorporates a six-tier security protection system covering alarm security, locking security, unlocking security, communication security, storage security, and power security. Features include tamper alerts, forced unlock protection, emergency SOS fingerprint recognition, remote unlock confirmation, and automatic lockout after repeated failed verification attempts.

The series is also rated IP65 for water and dust resistance, helping ensure reliable performance in various weather conditions. Designed for broad compatibility with most deadbolt locks, the Lock Vision Series can be installed in approximately 15 minutes using only a screwdriver.

Pricing and Availability

SwitchBot Lock Vision series will be available through the SwitchBot Amazon US & CA (coming soon) and official SwitchBot website, with an MSRP starting at USD 169.99 / CAD 229.99.

For more information, please visit SwitchBot’s official website and follow SwitchBot on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Media Kit: SwitchBot Lock Vision Series

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CSTS Enterprises Launches “Generation C” Initiative — A Ground‑Breaking International Football Extravaganza, Debuting This May in Hunan, China

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HONG KONG, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CSTS Enterprises (“CSTS“) today announced the official launch of “Generation C” (“Gen C“), a unique initiative representing a pioneering public-private partnership designed to inspire and nurture youth sports talent, strengthen grassroots football, connect East and West, and promote ‘Pro-Am’ engagement globally.

In collaboration with the Hunan government, Generation C will make its debut late May this year with major events in Yongzhou (永州) and Xiangtan (湘潭). The initiative aims to bring world-class football and international sporting culture to central China.

As a highlight of the program, CSTS will bring a team of elite players from Barcelona, Spain to Hunan to compete in exhibition matches hosted in the two cities, creating unforgettable live sporting experiences for football fans across the province and nationwide.

Headlining and playing in these events are two iconic former FC Barcelona stars and international football legends: Rivaldo and Saviola.

Rivaldo Vítor Borba Ferreira (Brazil) is one of football’s most celebrated attacking midfielders and forwards. Renowned for his extraordinary technique, creativity, and lethal left foot, Rivaldo starred for FC Barcelona from 1997 to 2002, scoring over 100 goals and leading the club to multiple domestic titles. His career includes winning the Ballon d’Or in 1999 (awarded to FIFA’s World Player of the Year), as well as lifting the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil. Rivaldo remains synonymous with spectacular goals, flair, and leadership at the highest level of the game.

Javier Pedro Saviola Fernández (Argentina), affectionately known as “El Conejo” (“The Rabbit”), is remembered for his pace, agility, and instinctive finishing. Joining FC Barcelona as a young sensation from River Plate in Argentina, Saviola played for the club from 2001 to 2007, scoring more than 70 goals in La Liga. An Olympic Gold Medalist in 2004, Saviola also represented Real Madrid during his storied career and is listed in Pelé’s FIFA 100 of the greatest living footballers.

Together, Rivaldo and Saviola stand as enduring icons of FC Barcelona‘s golden early-2000s era. Their overlapping tenures at the club epitomize a legendary generation of attacking brilliance and flair. Their participation in Generation C underscores the project’s strong ambition and international stature, while further elevating the global profile of CSTS.

Through Generation C, CSTS and its local & regional partners aim to foster impactful cultural exchange, elevate local sporting engagement, and create lasting opportunities for youth sports development across Hunan. Beyond exhibition matches, the initiative will serve as an enduring platform for inspiration, bringing world-class sports role models closer to local communities in the region and showcasing the unifying power of football.

Invitational team uniform (Generation C)
Invitational team uniform (Generation C)

About CSTS Enterprises

CSTS Enterprises is a content and IP-driven integrated media, entertainment, sports, and travel technology group. At its core, the company creates unique, high-impact content and leverages world-class intellectual properties to connect global opportunities with local and regional audiences. CSTS partners with leading international IPs and premier sporting and entertainment events, including FIFA World Cup and Formula 1 to deliver authentic, compelling experiences.

CSTS brings together experiential tourism, integrated marketing, data and technology to create connected, end-to-end experiences. By combining industry expertise with smart digital capabilities, the company helps simplify travel, improve efficiency and deliver brand impact. With a collaborative and forward-looking approach, CSTS supports clients in navigating an increasingly dynamic global business landscape, turning complex challenges into seamless, scalable solutions.

For more information, visit us at csts-enterprises.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

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H World Group Reports Q1 Results, Highlighting Asset-light Growth and Expanding APAC Footprint

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SHANGHAI, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT) (HKEX: 01179), one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, highlighting continued momentum in network coverage, loyalty engagement and the Group’s expanding presence across Asia Pacific.

JI Hotel Vientiane Mekong Riverside
JI Hotel Vientiane Mekong Riverside

Jin Hui, CEO of H World commented: “As we enter 2026, H World continues to advance brand-led, high-quality growth. In the first quarter, we opened 537 new hotels in China, well on track to meet our full-year gross opening target of approximately 2,200 to 2,300 hotels. Our blended H World China ADR increased 4.5% year-over-year and drove a 3.0% year-over-year increase in blended RevPAR.”

For the first quarter, hotel GMV reached RMB 26.4 billion, up 17.4 % year-on-year. Revenue from manachised and franchised hotels grew 20.3% year-on-year to RMB 3.0 billion, underscoring the strength of the Company’s asset-light model and sustained demand from partners.

Adjusted EBITDA reached RMB 1.9 billion for the quarter, a 24.2% increase year-on-year.

Network Growth Reinforces Market Leadership

As of March 31, 2026, H World’s worldwide hotel network in operation totaled 13,215 hotels and 1,303,563 rooms, including 13,095 hotels under H World China and 120 hotels under H World International. The Group’s geographic coverage increased to 1,461 cities in China, up from 1,394 cities as of March 31, 2025, reflecting continued expansion across regional markets and momentum in penetrating into lower-tier destinations.

H World remains focused on the mass market, with economy and midscale hotels as the core of its portfolio. The continued upgrades of Hanting and JI Hotel, together with the launch of Hanting Inn, a new economy hotel brand, have further strengthened the Group’s competitiveness in the economy and midscale hotel markets, reinforcing H World’s leadership in China’s mass-market hospitality segment.

Expanding APAC Presence Strengthens H World’s Global Platform

H World also continued to open new hotels in APAC as part of its regional expansion. With Singapore as its operational hub, the Group is extending its footprint into key Southeast Asian markets including Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. In Q1 2026, the first overseas JI Hotel 5.0 officially opened in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Located in a prime area of the city, the hotel carries forward JI Hotel’s signature Eastern-inspired design, reflecting H World’s growing ability to bring its brands to international markets.

As of March 31, H World Group operates 6 hotels in APAC, with a pipeline of approximately 10 additional hotels.

Supported by its standardized brand system, digital operating capabilities, and supply chain advantages, H World aims to continue its growth momentum across APAC.

Loyalty and Digital Capabilities Support Continued Growth

H Rewards, the Group’s loyalty program, saw growing consumer engagement in the first quarter, with room nights booked by members increasing 10.7% to 60 million.

“Looking ahead, we will continue to pursue high-quality hotel network expansion, strengthen our brand positioning, enhance member-centric sales capabilities underpinned by the H Rewards membership program, and further deepen our technology and AI development,” Jin Hui said.

For the full release please visit:

https://ir.hworld.com/news-releases/news-release-details/h-world-group-limited-reports-first-quarter-2026-unaudited

About H World Group Limited

Originated in China, H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT) (HKEX: 01179) is a key player in the global hotel industry. Over the past 20 years, H World has developed into a leading hospitality group with a presence across diverse market segments, from economy to upper-midscale and lifestyle hotels. H World’s brands include HanTing Hotel, JI Hotel, Crystal Orange Hotel, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, MAXX, Jaz in the City, IntercityHotel, Zleep Hotels and Steigenberger Icons. In addition, H World holds the rights as master franchisee for Mercure, Ibis and Ibis Styles, and co-development rights for Grand Mercure and Novotel in the pan-China region.

For more information, please visit H World’s website: https://ir.hworld.com 

H World undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law.

For media inquiry, please contact:

media@hworld.com 

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Ancient artifacts found beneath Cape Canaveral Space Force Station as one mystery still stumps researchers

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Florida students are uncovering remnants of the past in a place many associate with the future: Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

University of Central Florida students and faculty are currently excavating the DeSoto site at Cape Canaveral, along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

The site dates back to the Malabar II Period, which lasted from roughly 900 to 1565 A.D. It consists of black earth midden deposits — meaning it sits atop layers of ancient refuse.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER REMNANTS OF FLORIDA’S SHORT-LIVED BRITISH PAST IN ST. AUGUSTINE: ‘ALWAYS FASCINATING’

Middens “contain the garbage that people left behind after undertaking their daily tasks,” said Sarah “Stacy” Barber, an anthropology professor at the University of Central Florida.

Barber told Fox News Digital that “obtaining and preparing food” was an important daily activity for the people who lived there.

Split image of archaeologists at site, Cape Canaveral exteriors

University of Central Florida researchers are excavating an ancient midden site at Cape Canaveral, uncovering evidence of Indigenous life dating back centuries along Florida’s Atlantic coast. (Neil Duncan)

“They didn’t farm, although research by Neil Duncan has shown that at least some people in the region had access to ground corn, which was being farmed by the Indigenous people of North Florida,” she said.

Instead of farming, Native Americans in the area largely relied on local resources, though some people in the region had access to imported foods such as corn and beans.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER CENTURIES-OLD SHIPWRECK BENEATH HISTORIC CITY: ‘UNIQUE SOURCE OF KNOWLEDGE’

They also dined on seafood, including shark, fish, clams and other local species — remains of which have turned up in the midden.

“We know from our finds this year at DeSoto that turtles, shark, black drum, and coquina clams were on the menu.”

“We have found the refuse of many dozens of meals,” she said. “We know from our finds this year at DeSoto that turtles, shark, black drum, and coquina clams were on the menu.”

Barber added, “So, ancient people fished the lagoon and the beachfront. Once we can add in the plant remains, which take longer to process in a lab, we’ll know whether these animals were supplemented with plant foods like acorns and greenbriar.”

ARCHAEOLOGISTS STUMPED BY STRANGE ALIEN-LIKE FIGURINE DATING BACK 7,000 YEARS: ‘RAISES QUESTIONS’

The professor said there is even evidence of seasonings — suggesting ancient people “spiced up their food just like we do.”

“We have made a number of really interesting finds this year,” she said.

Excavators sifting through rocks and dirt at site

Excavations at the DeSoto site have uncovered food remains and artifacts that shed light on daily life during the Malabar II Period between 900 and 1565 A.D. (Neil Duncan)

Those finds include the “complete vertebral column of a shark,” which the Native Americans would have eaten, as well as “something that is either a fossil or a whale bone near the shark.”

The anthropologist said the unidentified object “has really stumped us.”

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“We look forward to figuring out what that is,” she said.

Archaeologists have also found hundreds of pottery sherds, as well as “the remnants of at least one hearth where food was likely cooked.”

“It was probably a comfortable, beachfront lifestyle.”

Barber added that samples still need to be sent to an outside lab for radiocarbon dating.

At the site, archaeologists also found tools such as conch shell hammers and shark tooth knives used to prepare food.

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Researchers say the remains show that Indigenous people made deliberate choices about what they ate, with shark remains found at the site but little evidence that dolphins were hunted.

Finds suggest the Native Americans relied largely on local resources for centuries, while also having contact with other tribes.

Split image of students digging, hand holding ancient conch shell

Excavations suggest that Indigenous communities lived in relatively dense populations while relying entirely on locally sourced food for generations. (Christina Threlkeld, Neil Duncan)

“The Indigenous people of Cape Canaveral lived in relatively dense communities and relied 100% on locally obtained food,” Barber said.

“They did it for thousands of years, and they didn’t put the kind of stress on the local environment that we have in far less time.”

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Rather than living hand-to-mouth, Barber said the community was well-connected and far from isolated.

“Our sites show an abundance and diversity of food, time to produce pottery when needed, and the opportunity to either travel or interact with people in distant regions,” she said.

NASA's Artemis II moon rocket lifting off from Launch Pad 39-B at Kennedy Space Center

“There are few places in the world highlighting the role of the past in the present than somewhere like Cape Canaveral,” said Barber. (John Raoux/AP Photo)

“It was probably a comfortable, beachfront lifestyle.”

Above all, Barber said the excavations show how the past and present can exist side by side.

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“There are few places in the world highlighting the role of the past in the present than somewhere like Cape Canaveral, where the future of space flight literally sits atop and among Native American landscapes,” she said.

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Bulldogs’ season on the brink after crushing loss to Sharks in Magic Round shocker

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Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo has lamented “very ugly moments” in a dismal 38-16 loss to Cronulla that keeps the Bulldogs’ NRL season teetering on the brink.

The out-of-sorts Bulldogs were never in the contest against a ruthless Sharks team who went to half-time up 30-6 in the first game of Magic Round.

“Really disappointed in the first half,” Ciraldo said after full-time on Friday night.

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“We looked more like we wanted to look in the second half but you can’t give up 30 points in the first half and expect to make a game of it.”

Premiership hopefuls to begin the season, the Bulldogs could finish the weekend as low as 15th on the ladder, with seven losses from their past eight games.

The cut-off for a finals spot last year was a 13-11 record; the Bulldogs already have seven defeats in 2026 with 14 games to play.

It’s been quite the fall from grace for Ciraldo’s side, who were first on the ladder with a 9-1 record this time last year and finished the season as the NRL’s best defensive team.

Canterbury defended only 14 red-zone tackles in Friday’s first half but conceded five tries for it, and have now leaked 110 points across their past three outings.

“The reality is, defence is attitude and we’re very good for long periods defensively, and then we take a moment off or we have an individual take a moment off and it’s hurting us,” Ciraldo said.

The Sharks’ fourth try looms as one of the softest of the year.

In only his third NRL start, back-up hooker Hohepa Puru flopped out of dummy half past both starting props, fullback Connor Tracey and hooker Bailey Hayward.

Nicho Hynes’ first-half try came after some similarly thin defence from the Bulldogs and the halfback left four defenders in his wake at close range.

“It’s hard to explain it. They’re very ugly moments,” Ciraldo said of the two defensive blunders.

“If you wanted to make an excuse, maybe it was fatigue, but that’d just be bullshit anyway. We need to do better.”

His NSW State of Origin spot under the microscope, Stephen Crichton showed flashes of his best, going in for the Bulldogs’ second try from a 65-metre burst down the right edge.

But 150-gamer Crichton was caught way in-field ahead of Will Kennedy’s try, with the sparkling Sharks fullback dummying straight through a hole to score.

Kennedy was busy all night as the Sharks responded well to Craig Fitzgibbon’s scathing critique of their last-start loss to South Sydney.

“I’m obviously pleased in comparison to last week,” said coach Fitzgibbon.

“I thought the boys walked in and accepted and took accountability, no sooks, just got on with some preparation for this week. No fuss about them.”

Ronaldo Mulitalo scored two tries returning from the anterior cruciate ligament injury he suffered last October, first grabbing a Braydon Trindall cut-out pass.

After three consecutive forced dropouts, the right winger caught a cross-field kick from Hynes to score the Sharks’ only try of a closer second half.

Trindall sent a last-ditch reminder of his talent to Queensland coach Billy Slater, scoring the first try after Kennedy outleapt Tracey and flicked out an offload.

NSW Origin contender Addin Fonua-Blake had 170 metres and 32 tackles.

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Singapore Airlines sticking with Air India for the “long game” despite losses

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A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 takes off from Barcelona-El Prat Airport in Barcelona, Spain, on April 29, 2026. (Photo by Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images

Singapore Airlines has seen Air India drag on its earnings for about five quarters, but analysts and the airline say the investment will pay off in the long term.

SIA reported on Thursday a record revenue of 20.5 billion Singapore dollars ($16.06 billion) for its financial year ended March 31, as operating profit surged 39% to SG$2.38 billion on higher demand, higher yields and lower full year net fuel cost, SIA said.

However, net profit plunged 57.4% year-on-year to SG$1.18 billion— mainly owing to Air India’s losses and an accounting gain in the previous year.

Singapore Airlines 2025 earnings

  • Earnings per share: 38.4 Singapore cents vs. 35 Singapore cents expected
  • Revenue: SG$20.5 billion vs. SG$20.07 billion expected

Air India has been beset by numerous hindrances: Pakistan’s airspace closed in April 2025, then Flight 171 crashed in June, killing more than 250 people.

Now, the Iran war and the carrier’s connectivity exposure to the Middle East market are wreaking havoc, forcing the airline to cancel nearly a third of its flights during the peak June to August travel period.

“These changes are aimed at improving network stability and reducing last-minute inconvenience to passengers,” Air India said.

SIA’s venture into India’s rapidly growing aviation market is strategic, “and strategic usually means unprofitable,” said independent aviation analyst Brendan Sobie. “But obviously the last year has been worse than anyone would have imagined.”

Why Singapore Airlines is still backing Air India despite an 'awful year': Analyst

CEO Goh Choon Phong said at earnings briefing Friday that SIA will still continue to support Air India, which he said had made “tangible progress” in its transformation program, in areas like staff training and reduced customer complaints.

“It is going to be a long game. There is no shortcut,” he said.

SIA’s India gambit

SIA entered the Indian aviation market when it launched Vistara with Tata Sons, the promoter of the Tata Group conglomerate, in 2015.

Vistara merged into Air India in December of 2024, giving SIA a 25.1% stake in India’s flag carrier. As part of the deal, SIA injected S$360 million in cash into Air India and committed to contributing up to S$880 million in additional capital in the future.

Air India is seeking at least 100 billion rupees (S$1.47 billion) in financial support from SIA and Tata, according to a Bloomberg report in April.

When asked if SIA will inject any additional capital into Air India, Goh declined to comment, saying that this “will be a discussion that we will have to have with our fellow shareholders.”

However, it may be hard to avoid.

“Given the magnitude of losses and continued operating pressure, the capital required in this round is likely to be meaningfully higher than initially expected,” said DBS Group Research analyst Jason Sum before the results release.

Sobie, speaking to Squawk Box Asia Friday, said SIA will “definitely have to put in more money. There’s no question about that. It’s just a matter of how much and when.”

A larger-than expected capital injection would start to constrain dividend capacity as SIA is facing rising earnings pressures, Sum said.

SIA will bleed cash for years as a result of Air India, so there’s a chance it may sell its stake in Air India to Tata or another buyer, said Sumit Agarwal, a professor at the National University of Singapore.

However, India is pouring money into new and upgraded airports as well as other infrastructure, so “it’s a good bet to be in that market,” Agarwal said. “The demand is there.”

In the long term, “I think this will pay off for Singapore Airlines,” he added.

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Trip.com Group to Launch New Bundled Booking Feature for Hotels in Maldives

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MALÉ, Maldives, May 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Trip.com Group has officially unveiled a new bundled booking feature for hotels at an exclusive event, supported by the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), held at The Event Hall @ Crossroads, Maldives.


The launch marks a significant step forward in enhancing travel personalisation and convenience for global travellers, while unlocking new commercial opportunities for hospitality partners in the Maldives.

Introducing a New Era of Customisable Travel

The new bundled booking feature, which will be available on both Ctrip and Trip.com, enables customers to seamlessly book hotel stays together with a curated selection of hotel add-on services. These may include items such as speedboat and seaplane transport, recreational activities and in-hotel dining experiences.

Image credit: SO/ Maldives
Image credit: SO/ Maldives

By integrating accommodation with customisable travel experiences, the feature is designed to offer greater flexibility and a more holistic travel planning experience.

“We’re excited to introduce a more intuitive way for travellers to plan their trips. As part of our vision to be an all-in-one platform, we’re combining stays with curated experiences to make it easier for customers to enjoy a richer, more connected travel journey,” said Ms Ru Yi, Assistant Vice President, International Markets, APAC.


Empowering Partners and Enhancing Customer Experience

This innovation, known as “Hotel + X”, empowers hotel partners and service providers to package room inventory with value-added services, enabling them to better differentiate offerings and drive overall revenue streams.

For travellers, the feature simplifies trip planning by consolidating multiple bookings into a streamlined experience, allowing for greater tailoring to individual preferences, be it for travellers seeking wellness, culinary highlights or local attractions.

Supporting Maldives Tourism Growth

The product launch coincides with a dedicated Maldives Destination Campaign “One Island, One Life, running from May 11 to May 24, 2026. This campaign is designed to showcase the beauty of the destination to global travellers, featuring special offers including 45% off Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, 40% off Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, and 30% off Dusit Thani Maldives.


Mr. Rafil Mohamed, Executive Director of MATI, warmly welcomed the initiative and commended Trip.com Group for the significant attention and priority accorded to the Maldives, expressing hope for continued and deepened engagement from the Group going forward.

Travellers will be able to book the “Hotel + X” bundled packages during the campaign period, with travel validity extending through November 30, 2026. They will be able to explore a curated selection of Trip.Best-listed resorts across the Maldives, spanning luxury, family-friendly and photogenic stays, including acclaimed resorts such as Milaidhoo Maldives, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and Dusit Thani Maldives.

Recent data highlights continued momentum for the destination, with robust demand from international travellers, particularly from key source markets such as China and Korea in Asia, as well as Italy, the UK and Germany in Europe.

January arrival figures have shown a steady increase across the years, from 131,764 in 2022 to 224,788 in 2026. In February 2026, international visitor arrival numbers grew by 15.7% compared to the same month last year, underscoring sustained inbound tourism.

Within the Maldives, the Kaafu region—home to Malé and its surrounding islands—remains the leading destination, accounting for 43.1% of total tourist volume. Other key atolls with significant arrivals include Alifu Dhaalu (9.4%), Alifu Alifu (8.2%), and Raa (7.3%).

In January 2026, the majority of tourist arrivals were aged between 25 and 34, highlighting the destination’s strong appeal among younger travellers.

About Trip.com Group

Trip.com Group is a global travel service provider comprising of Trip.com, Ctrip, Skyscanner, and Qunar. Across its platforms, Trip.com Group helps travellers around the world make informed and cost-effective bookings for travel products and services and enables partners to connect their offerings with users through the aggregation of travel-related content and resources, and an advanced transaction platform consisting of apps, websites and 24/7 customer service centres. Founded in 1999 and listed on NASDAQ in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, Trip.com Group is on the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world”. Find out more about Trip.com Group here: group.trip.com.

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About Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI)

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization formed in 1982, for the purpose of developing tourism in the Maldives. More than four decades of MATI’s service has been provided to almost all the travel and tourism related issues which arise in Maldives.


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