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Multi-Award Winning Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach: Voted Top 3 Best Family Resort

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PHUKET, Thailand, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Recognized as the Top 3 in “Thailand’s Best Family Resorts” by readers of Holidays with Kids magazine, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach solidifies its status as the ultimate family sanctuary for 2026. Located on the secluded Tri-Trang Beach just minutes from Patong, this multi-award-winning resort blends sustainable eco-adventures, world-class amenities, and 5-star relaxation to create a holiday experience that is truly second to none.

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach - A family of three relaxes in a resort room with a view of the beach, featuring M Passport Family Package
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach – A family of three relaxes in a resort room with a view of the beach, featuring M Passport Family Package

Experience the “Best Family Resort” Difference Celebrated by families worldwide, the resort has been honored as a Top 3 winner in Holidays with Kids magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Thailand’s Best Family Resorts. Combined with consistent top-tier ratings on TripAdvisor, “Trip.Best” No.1 Family Resort in Phuket. Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach is a destination designed for connection. The resort sits on its own private stretch of white sand, surrounded by lush jungle and a protected house reef, offering families a unique “resort-within-a-resort” atmosphere where nature and luxury meet.

Why Families Choose an Award-Winning Stay Our commitment to creating the best family experience is evident in our diverse, high-quality amenities that cater to every generation:

  • Kids Club and Splash Zone:Kids Club alongside our exhilarating Splash Zone mini-water park with three landscaped pools and a splash pad.
  • Education Meets Adventure: We turn vacations into learning opportunities at our on-site Merlin House ReefEducation Center. Families can snorkel directly from the beach and learn about marine conservation, or visit our unique Butterfly Sanctuary to observe native species in the wild.
  • Dining for Everyone: With 10 diverse restaurants and bars, including the Japanese favorite Kanpai, the authentic Chang Thai, and the seaside Beach Grill, we ensure every palate is pleased.

Featured Package: To celebrate our status as a top family destination, we invite you to book the M Passport Package, designed to spark joy and curiosity in our youngest guests:

  • M Passport Pack: A special activity passport for children to explore the resort, complete challenges, and earn exclusive rewards.
  • Kids Eat Free: Children under 12 enjoy complimentary meals from the kids’ menu (up to 2 children per room, when accompanied by a dining adult).
  • Daily Breakfast: Delicious international buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children.
  • Special Amenities: Kid’s Theme room decoration, Exclusive welcome gift for kids and child-friendly in-room amenities.
  • Inspiring Activities: Access to educational and fun activities at the Kids Club and Reef Education Center.

Book Your 2026 Adventure Today Discover why critics and guests alike call us the Best Family Resort in Phuket.

For reservations our exclusive deal M Passport Package
For more information please visit our website Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach

Aerial view of Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, showcasing its expansive beachfront property with lush greenery, multiple swimming pools, and solar panel-equipped buildings along the turquoise coastline
Aerial view of Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, showcasing its expansive beachfront property with lush greenery, multiple swimming pools, and solar panel-equipped buildings along the turquoise coastline

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Southwest shares jump most since 1978 as airline predicts profits could quadruple this year

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A Southwest Airlines aircraft parks at Gate B33 while its tail sticks into the sunlight at Boston Logan International Airport in Boston, MA, on December 22, 2025.

Austin DeSisto | Nurphoto | Getty Images

Southwest Airlines expects 2026 profits to at least quadruple, far exceeding analysts’ expectations, as the carrier overhauls its half-century-old business model to include new moneymakers like bag fees and seat assignments.

The airline expects to earn at minimum an adjusted $4 a share this year, exceeding the $3.19 analysts had anticipated, according to estimates from LSEG. It also forecast capacity growth of 2% to 3% compared with 2025, which could almost double last year’s capacity expansion.

Southwest Airlines ended its decades long open-seating policy – here's what travelers think

“We wanted to give a little more time before we gave the upper bound of this forecast just to let a little more information come in” about the new initiatives, CFO Tom Doxey said in an interview Wednesday. He said travel demand has been strong.

Southwest shares surged nearly 19%, their biggest percentage gain in a day since 1978, and closed at $48.50, the highest since November 2021.

In the first quarter, Southwest said it expects revenue per seat mile to rise 9.5%, above the 8.5% analysts expected. The carrier forecast adjusted earnings of at least 45 cents for the first quarter, above the 33 cents Wall Street projected.

The forecast includes the impact of this week’s winter storm, which CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC’s Phil LeBeau on Thursday will amount to a hit of about $30 million to $40 million.

Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan: New initiatives set up terrific momentum for 2026

Jordan also said demand has been strong across the board.

“Notwithstanding the impact of Winter Storm Fern, 2026 is off to a strong start, driven by the Company’s Customer-focused product offering, operational excellence, and dramatic progress from the transformational initiatives implemented last year,” Jordan said in an earnings release. The sprawling winter storm forced airlines to cancel thousands of flights, though Southwest’s Texas rival American Airlines has especially struggled to recover from the weather impacts.

Here’s how the company performed in fourth quarter compared with Wall Street expectations, according to consensus estimates from LSEG:

  • Earnings per share: 58 cents adjusted vs. 58 cents cents expected
  • Revenue: $7.44 billion vs. $7.51 billion expected

Southwest has spent much of the past two years making drastic changes to its business model, including ending its open boarding policy and this week moving to assigned seats, which come with upcharges for certain spots, including its new extra legroom section.

Last year, the airline began charging customers to check bags for the first time ever and launched basic economy fares. The policies make the longtime industry standout more like its rivals as the airline faces pressure to improve profits.

“We’re not done,” Doxey said Wednesday about the airline’s initiatives. The carriers’ executives have previously discussed the possibility of other ventures. Jordan said in an interview last month that Southwest is exploring airport lounges.

The airline’s executives told analysts on Thursday that the company is very focused on reducing costs.

Overall headcount was flat in 2025 from a year earlier, though Southwest shed more than 10% of its corporate staff last year in its first-ever mass layoff.

Jordan told CNBC later Thursday that the company could lower its corporate headcount by 3% to 4% this year, but “we don’t have any plan and no desire to do a large layoff” and that it expects its employee totals to decline from attrition.

Southwest’s fourth-quarter net income rose almost 24% from a year earlier to $323 million, while revenue rose 7.4% to $7.44 billion. Adjusting for one-time items including a reorganization, Southwest posted earnings of $301 million or 58 cents a share, down from $356 million or 56 cents a share a year earlier.

Read more CNBC airline news

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Travel warning escalates for tourists as US State Dept flags ‘armed conflict’ risks

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The U.S. State Department has updated its travel advisory for Pakistan, keeping the country at a Level 3: Reconsider Travel status, but with an additional warning for tourists.

Officials added an “unrest” indicator due to possible “armed conflict” — also adding a crime risk indicator as well.

There are three areas of the country that have a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory, to which a “kidnapping” advisory was added.

OFFICIALS CHANGE TRAVEL ALERT FOR SPRING BREAK HOT SPOT WHILE WARNING OF ‘SEXUAL ASSAULTS’

In 2023, there were about 3.95 million inbound arrivals, according to government data.

Officials lowered the area between the Pakistan-India border from a Level 4 status to a Level 3.

Historic Landmark Badshahi Mosque

The State Department has updated a travel advisory for Pakistan, maintaining a Level 3 status but with new warnings added. (iStock)

Terrorism is listed in the advisory, with a warning that violent extremist groups have carried out attacks in Pakistan.

Terrorist attacks typically happen in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the former FATA, but they have also occurred in major cities such as Karachi and Islamabad,” the advisory says.

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Balochistan in the southwest is Pakistan’s largest province by land area; it borders Afghanistan, Iran and the Arabian Sea. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is located in the northwest. 

Karachi is in the far south of the country — while Islamabad is in the north and inland. 

pakistan market during the day

In 2023, there were about 3.95 million people who visited Pakistan. (iStock)

Officials write that terrorists target transportation hubs, hotels, malls, places of worship, tourist spots and other places.

Travelers are also advised to avoid any protests, as the demonstrations can draw scrutiny from Pakistani security forces.

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“U.S. citizens have been detained for participating in protests. You can also face detention for posting content on social media viewed as critical of the Pakistani government, military or officials,” it reads.

Pakistan Border

Officials lowered the area between the Pakistan-India border (pictured) from a Level 4 to a Level 3. (AP Photo/Jafar Khan)

Pakistan’s 7th Population and Housing Census done in 2023 by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics indicated that the country’s population stands at approximately 241.5 million people.

In the U.S., some 580,000 people identified as Pakistani, according to Pew’s 2021–2023 American Community Survey.

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The State Department has four travel advisory levels to help travelers assess safety risks before visiting other countries.

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The advisory levels are: Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions; Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution; Level 3 – Reconsider Travel; and Level 4 – Do Not Travel.

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Visit Korean Heritage Campaign Comes to New York, the Global Hub of Culture

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Visit Korean Heritage Campaign launches promotional events in New York under the theme “Golden Blessings”

Media art featuring Joseon Dynasty Royal Bojagi and Korean temple food experiences among a rich lineup of heritage programs (Feb. 11–14)

SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Korea Heritage Service (Administrator: Huh Min), in collaboration with the Korea Heritage Agency (President: Lee Gwi-young) and the Korean Cultural Center New York (Executive Director: Kim Cheon-soo), will host a promotional event for the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign* titled “Korea on Stage in New York” from February 11 to 14 in New York City.

* Visit Korean Heritage Campaign: Launched in 2020, the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign is an initiative designed to promote the value and beauty of Korea’s national heritage—the foundation of Korean culture that has gained growing global attention—to audiences in Korea and around the world. The campaign operates a range of programs, including the Korean Heritage Passport Tour, which connects Korea’s representative national heritage sites across 10 routes and 76 destinations; Korea on Stage performances and exhibitions; and the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign Promotion Center at Incheon International Airport, among others.

Korea on Stage in New York
Korea on Stage in New York

Held under the theme “Golden Blessings: Discovering Korean Cultural Heritage,” the event introduces global audiences to the value and significance of Korea’s national heritage—the foundation of K-culture—through a diverse program lineup, including national heritage media art exhibitions, traditional crafts exhibitions, traditional performing arts, and Korean temple food experiences.

The program begins on February 11 at 3:00 p.m. with a special pre-opening performance at Times Square Plaza. Co-organized with the The Korean American Association of Greater New York, the approximately 30-minute performance features modumbuk (ensemble drumming) and fan dances by the Korean Traditional Dance of Choomnoori (KTDOC), as well as Sogochum and Jindo-bukchum performed by the Korea Heritage Agency Performance Arts Group.

Later that evening, at 7:00 p.m., an opening ceremony will be held at the Korean Cultural Center New York. Approximately 150 guests, including figures from cultural and arts communities in Korea and abroad, will gather to view traditional crafts and media art exhibitions and enjoy traditional performances, sharing a Korean-style Lunar New Year celebration together.

<Event Schedule: Korea on Stage in New York

Category

Program

Date & Time

Venue

Pre-opening Special Performance

Modumbuk, Fan Dance, Sogo Dance, Jindo Drum Dance

Feb. 11, 3:00 PM

Times Square Plaza

Sculpture Exhibition

Haetae guardian statue, peony sculptures

Feb. 11–14

KCCNY, 1st Floor

Media Art Exhibition

Three media artworks including “Joseon Dynasty Royal Bojagi”

Feb. 11–28

Weekdays 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Saturdays 11:00 AM–5:00 PM

KCCNY, 1st Floor

Traditional Crafts Exhibition

Gold Leaf Craft, Mother-of-Pearl Inlay, Decorative Knotting

Feb. 11–14

Weekdays 10:00 AM–7:30 PM

Saturdays 11:00 AM–5:00 PM

KCCNY, 2nd Floor Gallery

Court & Folk Dance Performance

Wishes in Motion

Feb. 12–13 (2 shows)

7:30 PM

Feb. 14 (1 show)

3:00 PM

KCCNY Theater (Basement)

Hands-on Programs

Hanji Lucky Pouch Gold Leaf Craft Workshop

Feb. 12 (2 sessions)

4:30–5:30 PM / 6:00–7:00 PM

KCCNY, 4th Floor

Temple Cuisine Experience with Venerable Jeong Kwan

Feb. 13–14

11:00 AM–1:30 PM

(2 sessions total, 1 per day)

KCCNY, 4th Floor

Jingwansa Traditional Tea Tasting

Feb. 13–14

1:30–4:00 PM

KCCNY, 4th Floor

Temple Cuisine Demonstration

Temple Cuisine as Sustainable Food

Feb. 12

12:30–2:00 PM

CIA (Culinary Institute of America)

  • Contemporary Reinterpretations of National Heritage: Media Art and Traditional Crafts Exhibitions 

On the first floor of the Korean Cultural Center New York, large-scale installations recreating the Haetae statue that stands in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace, along with peony sculptures symbolizing wealth and prosperity, will be on display from February 11 to 14. Visitors can also experience three media art works (February 11–28) that express wishes embedded in traditional Korean art, architecture, and daily life, under themes such as Joseon Dynasty Royal Bojagi and Paintings of Joseon.

On the second floor exhibition gallery, works centered on gold leaf craftsmanship, a technique unique to the Joseon royal court, will be exhibited from February 11 to 14. Highlights include Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido (Celestial Chart) and Hojakdo Hambo (Magpies and Tigers Wedding Chest Wrapping) by Kim Gi-ho, Holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage for Geumbakjang (Gold Leaf Imprinting), as well as works by master artisans of mother-of-pearl inlay and traditional knotting. A K-Heritage Store offering a range of cultural products will also be open during the exhibition period.

  • The Essence of Korean Traditional Dance Unfolds in New York

On February 12 and 13 at 7:30 p.m., and February 14 at 3:00 p.m., the theater on B1 of the Korean Cultural Center New York will host “Wishes in Motion,” an omnibus performance bringing together court dances and folk dances on a single stage. Featuring the Korea Heritage Agency Performance Arts Group and other performers, the program presents a rich repertoire including Cheoyongmu, Taepyeongmu (Dance of Peace), Sogochum, Jindobukchum, and Ganggangsullae.

  • Interactive Programs: From Temple Food to Gold Leaf Craft Workshops

A range of hands-on programs will also be offered for local audiences. These include a Gold Leaf Craft Workshop, where participants apply traditional gold leaf to a hanji lucky pouch (February 12, 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.; 4th floor, Korean Cultural Center New York); a cooking class with Venerable Jeong Kwan, a master of Temple Food—a National Intangible Cultural Heritage—organized in collaboration with the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism (February 13–14, 11:00 a.m.; 4th floor, limited to 16 participants per session); and a Traditional Tea Tasting Experience presented by Jinkwansa Temple (February 13–14, 2:00 p.m.; 4th floor, limited to 20 participants per session). All hands-on programs are available by advance registration only. During the Korea on Stage in New York event period (February 11–14), the first 1,500 participants who collect stamps after visiting exhibitions and participating in programs using the Korean Heritage Passport, distributed on the first floor of the Korean Cultural Center New York, will receive a traditional craft souvenir on a first-come, first-served basis.

On February 12 at 12:30 p.m., the Korea Heritage Service and the Korea Heritage Agency will host a culinary demonstration and roundtable discussion at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA)—widely recognized as one of the world’s leading culinary institutions—under the theme “Temple Food as Sustainable Cuisine.” The event will share the philosophy and values of Korean temple food with local culinary professionals, while exploring contemporary interpretations of traditional cuisine and its potential for global dissemination.

Building on this event, the Korea Heritage Service and the Korea Heritage Agency plan to fully launch the 2026 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, expanding efforts to promote the value of Korea’s national heritage at home and abroad. Through a wide range of programs, the two organizations aim to ensure that national heritage continues to serve as a meaningful cultural asset representing Korea and delivering lasting impact to global audiences.

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From Pitch to Home: Haier’s Global Champion Tour Hits Bangkok, Showcasing Localized Premium Appliances and Healthy Living

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BANGKOK, Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Haier, the world’s leading IoT ecosystem brand, is hosting a Global Champion Tour event themed “Champion Your Haier Life” in Bangkok, Thailand from January 28 to February 1.

Haier hosting a Global Champion Tour event themed “Champion Your Haier Life” in Bangkok
Haier hosting a Global Champion Tour event themed “Champion Your Haier Life” in Bangkok

As an official partner of Liverpool Football Club and Paris Saint-Germain, Haier invites the public to join in celebrating their shared passion for sports and embrace a new journey toward a healthy lifestyle, with special activities planned for fans of both clubs. For Paris Saint-Germain fans in particular, Haier will showcase the French Championship trophy – the Club’s record-breaking 13th domestic title – at the event.

Haier invites the public to join in celebrating their shared passion for sports and embrace a new journey toward a healthy lifestyle, with special activities planned for fans of both clubs
Haier invites the public to join in celebrating their shared passion for sports and embrace a new journey toward a healthy lifestyle, with special activities planned for fans of both clubs

Spanning 1,300 square meters, the event integrates a pop-up show with a synchronized campaign across 100 partner stores. It features a dynamic sports-themed layout, including a mini-football pitch and interactive game zones. Designed for seamless online and offline integration, the experience is amplified through Facebook, YouTube and TikTok live streaming, in store promotions, and multi touchpoint engagement, where fans can watch and enjoy the event worldwide or immerse themselves at Central World Square B (Outdoor Zone), Bangkok.

During the event, Haier showcases its innovative “champion-grade” products, conveying the brand value and enhancing quality living through premium experiences.

From Pitch to Home: Haier’s Global Champion Tour Hits Bangkok, Showcasing Localized Premium Appliances and Healthy Living
From Pitch to Home: Haier’s Global Champion Tour Hits Bangkok, Showcasing Localized Premium Appliances and Healthy Living

The Space Fit series is a new flagship collection of premium home appliances designed to provide a seamless, high-performance user experience. At the center of the lineup is the Space Fit Refrigerator, custom-designed to meet local preferences with features such as an integrated ice maker and enhanced freshness preservation tailored to tropical climates. The innovative Triple-Drum Washing Machine tackles varied laundry needs in one cycle, while the M80 Television delivers an immersive cinematic experience through QLED technology with precision dimming zones, KEF-tuned audio, and support for Dolby Vision, Atmos, and gaming modes.

In addition, Haier will also highlight the Dual Comfort Air Conditioning Series engineered for optimal comfort and energy efficiency, as well as the UV Cool Voice Air Conditioner featuring advanced AI Voice control for hands-free operation, and the L+ Washer-Dryer offering one-stop washing and drying with a large 607mm drum, 20 preset modes, and 26 specialized stain removal programs for unparalleled fabric care.

Haier connects with fans through a shared passion for sports, embracing a vision of healthy living together. Building on the partnerships with Liverpool Football Club and Paris Saint-Germain, Haier is blending the athletic elements like football and badminton into the campaigns to foster a community, channeling the champion spirit into its home appliance products, and encouraging users to pursue an energetic and wellness-oriented lifestyle. It has organized the “Haier Run” mini marathon for six consecutive years and sponsored badminton tournaments to engage more people, and it also appointed superstar BAMBAM as a brand ambassador in Thailand.

Haier adheres to a user-centered philosophy through an integrated model of local R&D, manufacturing, and marketing. Haier has maintained its position as the world’s No. 1 brand in major home appliance retail volume for 17 consecutive years. In Thailand, where it entered in 2002, Haier has steadily grown its market share from 10% to 14%, becoming the top brand in the white goods segment over its 23 year presence.

Haier’s Bangkok Southeast Asia R&D Center focuses on designing products that meet local preferences; it acquired the Sanyo factory in 2007, and the Chonburi Air Conditioning Industrial Park, which opened in 2025, has an annual capacity of 6 million units to serve the global markets.

Beyond products, Haier actively involves itself in the Thai society through sports sponsorships, charity programs, and community engagements, fostering zero distance connection with users and reinforcing its role as a trusted, integrated local partner. Driven by a strong sense of social responsibility, Haier builds lasting bonds while supporting local communities—its annual charitable contributions exceed 10 million THB (USD 317,900).

For more information about Haier, please visit https://www.haier.com/global/.

Stay updated on news, promotions, and various activities from Haier on Facebook: Haier Thailand, Instagram: @haierthailand_official, X (Twitter): @ThailandHaier, YouTube: @HaierThailandOfficial, TikTok: @haier_thailand and Line Official: @haierthailand. For more product details, visit https://www.haier.com/th

#Haier #HaierThailand #MoreCreationMorePossibilities

#HaierThailandPopUp #ChampionYourHaierLife

About Haier

Haier stands as the world’s pioneering manufacturer and leader in household electrical appliances and innovations. With a mission to create high-quality home appliances to cater to diverse needs, Haier swiftly adapts to the rapid changes in consumer preferences across over 100 countries worldwide.

As the reigning champion of household appliances globally for 17 consecutive years, from 2009 to 2025, according to the Euromonitor International, an esteemed market research institute, Haier has consistently proved its reliability and dominance in the industry.

Haier Thailand is dedicated to inventing and developing various products tailored to provide excellent service and cater to the lifestyles in Thailand. In the year 2019, the company embarked on a strategic shift from being solely an electrical appliance provider to becoming a leader in the Internet of Things (IoT) electrical appliances. Haier Thailand envisions evolving into a pioneering ecosystem brand in the Thai market in the foreseeable future.

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Allrounder Sophie Molineux replaces Alyssa Healy as Australia’s new women’s cricket captain

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Australia’s new women’s cricket captain Sophie Molineux says she’s grateful for the trust bestowed on her.

Molineux takes over from Alyssa Healy, who will retire in March, with Ash Gardner elevated to share the vice-captaincy with incumbent Tahlia McGrath.

“It’s a real honour … and something I’m incredibly proud of,” allrounder Molineux said on Thursday.

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“Especially following on from Alyssa, who’s had such a huge impact on this team and the game.

“We’ve got a really strong group with plenty of natural leaders, alongside a lot of exciting talent coming through.

“And I’m really looking forward to working together as we keep evolving and pushing ourselves to the next level, while staying true to the identity that makes this team so special.

Molineux says she is incredibly honoured to be handed captaincy duties.
Molineux says she is incredibly honoured to be handed captaincy duties. Credit: Getty Images

“I’m incredibly grateful for the trust that’s been shown in me.”

The 28-year-old Victorian was described as an outstanding leader by Cricket Australia’s women’s cricket head of performance, Shawn Flegler.

“We are thrilled for her to take on the role,” he said.

“Sophie is highly respected within Australian cricket, and her resilience, composure and proven domestic leadership makes her the right person to lead the team into a new era.”

Flegler said Molineux’s workload would be closely monitored, with a focus on key tournaments and international series.

“Tahlia McGrath remains vice-captain, recognising her significant leadership contribution under Alyssa Healy,” he said.

“Tahlia has acted as stand-in captain on 16 occasions across formats, providing consistency and stability.

“Ash Gardner has been elevated to vice-captain alongside Tahlia, strengthening the team’s leadership group.

“Ash and Tahlia provide complementary skills in support of Sophie and are also both capable of leading the team as stand-in captain if required.”

Molineux will take the reins for a three-match T20 series against India starting on February 15, with three 50-over clashes to follow, before a one-off Test against the Indians in Perth from March 6.

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First Patient Dosed in Pivotal Phase 3 Study of TLX591-Px (Illuccix®) for Prostate Cancer Imaging in Japanese Patients

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MELBOURNE, Australia, Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: TLX, NASDAQ: TLX, “Telix”) today announces that the first patient has been dosed in the Phase 3 registration study of TLX591-Px (Illuccix®, Kit for the preparation of 68Ga-PSMA-11) for prostate cancer imaging in Japanese patients. The patient was dosed at Shonan Kamakura General Hospital (SKGH) in Kamakura, Japan.

Illuccix Japan[1] is a Phase 3 prospective, open-label, multicenter study designed to evaluate the detection efficacy and safety profile of 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT[2] in Japanese patients with biochemically recurrent (BCR) prostate cancer following prior radical prostatectomy. The study will enroll up to 105 Japanese men at 11 sites and data are intended to support a future marketing authorization application for TLX591-Px in Japan.

The primary objective of the study is to compare the sensitivity of 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT to conventional imaging (CT and bone scintigraphy) for the detection of metastatic lesions. Secondary objectives include evaluating diagnostic performance for local and distant lesions, safety and tolerability, and the impact of 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT on clinical management decisions.

Commencement of the trial augments Telix’s early access and clinical activities in the world’s second-largest market for nuclear medicine. This includes compassionate use for TLX591-Px in Japan[3], and the Phase 3 ProstACT Global study of TLX591-Tx (lutetium (177Lu) rosopatamab tetraxetan)[4] in advanced prostate cancer, which is now open for enrollment[5].

Dr. David N. Cade, Telix Group Chief Medical Officer, commented, “PSMA-PET[6] imaging has fundamentally changed how we detect and manage prostate cancer, providing greater accuracy and confidence in treatment planning compared with conventional imaging. Yet, access remains limited in much of Japan, where 68Ga-PSMA-11 is not fully validated in the local clinical setting or across all stages of the disease. This milestone, together with Telix’s existing compassionate use supply to address unmet patient need, brings us significantly closer to improving access to gallium-based PSMA-PET and improving outcomes for men living with prostate cancer in Japan.”

About Prostate Cancer in Japan

The Asia Pacific region comprises approximately one-third of the world’s male population and includes many nations whose populations are ageing or increasingly adopting a more affluent, ‘Western-style’ lifestyle, the two main demographic trends driving increasing cancer incidence rates. Consequently, the incidence of prostate cancer is increasing in many parts of the region.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Japanese men with more than 104,000 new diagnoses each year, and the sixth leading cause of cancer-related death with over 14,000 deaths annually[7].

[1] Japan Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: JRCT2031250473.

[2] Positron emission tomography/computed tomography.

[3] Since January 2024, Telix has supported compassionate use of TLX591-Px in Japan through site-requested supply, consistent with local regulation.

[4] ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06520345.

[5] Japanese regulator Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) has granted approval for a Japan-specific Part 1 in nine patients, prior to commencing Part 2.

[6] Imaging of prostate-specific membrane antigen with positron emission tomography.

[7] Global Cancer Statistics 2022: GLOBOCAN survey. Published August 2024.

 

About Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited

Telix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of therapeutic and diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals and associated medical technologies. Telix is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with international operations in the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Canada, Europe (Belgium and Switzerland), and Japan. Telix is developing a portfolio of clinical and commercial stage products that aims to address significant unmet medical needs in oncology and rare diseases. Telix is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: TLX) and the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ: TLX).

TLX591-Px (Illuccix®), Telix’s first generation PSMA-PET imaging agent, has been approved in multiple markets globally, excluding in Japan where use is investigational only.

Visit www.telixpharma.com or jp.telixpharma.com for further information about Telix, including details of the latest share price, ASX and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, investor and analyst presentations, news releases, event details and other publications that may be of interest. You can also follow Telix on LinkedIn, X and Facebook.

Telix Investor Relations

Ms. Kyahn Williamson
Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited
SVP Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
Email: kyahn.williamson@telixpharma.com

Legal Notices

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements. 

You should read this announcement together with our risk factors, as disclosed in our most recently filed reports with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC, or on our website.

The information contained in this announcement is not intended to be an offer for subscription, invitation or recommendation with respect to securities of Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (Telix) in any jurisdiction, including the United States. The information and opinions contained in this announcement are subject to change without notification.  To the maximum extent permitted by law, Telix disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any information or opinions contained in this announcement, including any forward-looking statements (as referred to below), whether as a result of new information, future developments, a change in expectations or assumptions, or otherwise. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained or opinions expressed in the course of this announcement.

This announcement may contain forward-looking statements, including within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that relate to anticipated future events, financial performance, plans, strategies or business developments. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of words such as “may”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “outlook”, “forecast” and “guidance”, or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on Telix’s good-faith assumptions as to the financial, market, regulatory and other risks and considerations that exist and affect Telix’s business and operations in the future and there can be no assurance that any of the assumptions will prove to be correct. In the context of Telix’s business, forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about: the initiation, timing, progress, completion and results of Telix’s preclinical and clinical trials, and Telix’s research and development programs; Telix’s ability to advance product candidates into, enroll and successfully complete, clinical studies, including multi-national clinical trials; the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals for Telix’s product candidates, including the planned NDA resubmission for TLX101-Px and the planned BLA resubmission for TLX250-Px, manufacturing activities and product marketing activities; Telix’s sales, marketing and distribution and manufacturing capabilities and strategies; the commercialization of Telix’s product candidates, if or when they have been approved; Telix’s ability to obtain an adequate supply of raw materials at reasonable costs for its products and product candidates; estimates of Telix’s expenses, future revenues and capital requirements; Telix’s financial performance; developments relating to Telix’s competitors and industry; the anticipated impact of U.S. and foreign tariffs and other macroeconomic conditions on Telix’s business; and the pricing and reimbursement of Telix’s product candidates, if and after they have been approved. Telix’s actual results, performance or achievements may be materially different from those which may be expressed or implied by such statements, and the differences may be adverse. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Trademarks and Trade Names. All trademarks and trade names referenced in this press release are the property of Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (Telix) or, where applicable, the property of their respective owners. For convenience, trademarks and trade names may appear without the ® or ™ symbols. Such omissions are not intended to indicate any waiver of rights by Telix or the respective owners. Trademark registration status may vary from country to country. Telix does not intend the use or display of any third-party trademarks or trade names to imply any affiliation with, endorsement by, or sponsorship from those third parties.

©2026 Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited. All rights reserved.

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Southwest Airlines forecasts surge in 2026 profits after new seat, bag fees take hold

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A Southwest Airlines aircraft parks at Gate B33 while its tail sticks into the sunlight at Boston Logan International Airport in Boston, MA, on December 22, 2025.

Austin DeSisto | Nurphoto | Getty Images

Southwest Airlines on Wednesday forecast a surge in 2026 profits well above analysts’ expectations as the carrier overhauls its half-century-old business model to include new moneymakers like bag fees and seat assignments.

The airline expects to earn at minimum, an adjusted $4 a share this year, exceeding the $3.19 analysts had anticipated, according to estimates from LSEG. It also forecast capacity growth of 2% to 3% compared with 2025, which could almost double last year’s capacity expansion.

“We wanted to give a little more time before we gave the upper bound of this forecast just to let a little more information come in” about the new initiatives, CFO Tom Doxey said in an interview Wednesday. He said travel demand has been strong.

Southwest stock rose more than 5% in post-market trading after the company’s report.

In the first quarter, Southwest said it expects revenue per seat mile to rise 9.5%, above the 8.5% analysts expected. The carrier forecast adjusted earnings of 45 cents for the first quarter, above the 33 cents Wall Street projected.

“Notwithstanding the impact of Winter Storm Fern, 2026 is off to a strong start, driven by the Company’s Customer-focused product offering, operational excellence, and dramatic progress from the transformational initiatives implemented last year,” CEO Bob Jordan said in an earnings release. The sprawling winter storm forced airlines to cancel thousands of flights, though Southwest’s Texas rival American Airlines has especially struggled to recover from the weather impacts.

Here’s how the company performed in fourth quarter compared with Wall Street expectations, according to consensus estimates from LSEG:

  • Earnings per share: 58 cents adjusted vs. 58 cents cents expected
  • Revenue: $7.44 billion vs. $7.51 billion expected

Southwest has spent much of the past two years making drastic changes to its business model, including ending its open boarding policy and this week moving to assigned seats, which come with upcharges for certain spots, including its new extra legroom section.

Southwest Airlines ended its decades long open-seating policy – here's what travelers think

Last year, the airline began charging customers to check bags for the first time ever and launched basic economy fares. The policies make the longtime industry standout more like its rivals as the airline faces pressure to improve profits.

“We’re not done,” Doxey said Wednesday about the airline’s initiatives. The carriers’ executives have previously discussed the possibiliyt of other ventures. Jordan said in an interview last month that Southwest is exploring airport lounges.

Southwest’s executives are set to face questions from investors in a call on Thursday morning about the cost of the storm, new revenue streams and growth in profits in the coming years, beyond the sales spike from their debut.

Southwest’s fourth-quarter net income rose almost 24% from a year earlier to $323 million, while revenue rose 7.4% to $7.44 billion. Adjusting for one-time items including a reorganization, Southwest posted earnings of $301 million or 58 cents a share, down from $356 million or 56 cents a share a year earlier.

Read more CNBC airline news

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Popular sunny destination to slash 10,000 vacation rentals in affordable housing push

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NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Hawaii Gov. Josh Greene is shaking up the way Americans are visiting the Aloha State by doubling down on the regulation of vacation rentals.

In his State of the State address on Monday, Greene, a Democrat, announced that 10,000 rentals would be removed from the market.

“We also have to return more homes to local families — including short-term rentals that have taken too many units off the market,” said Greene.

HIGH TOURIST TAX IN HAWAII DESIGNED TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGED BY LAWSUIT

“In the coming years,” he added, “we will support the counties as they bring more short-term rentals back into the housing market — so that more homes go to local families, not absentee investors.”

In May 2024, the governor signed legislation allowing counties to regulate short-term rentals with the goal of providing more affordable housing.

hawaii green fee tax

Most recently, the Maui County Council passed a bill on Dec. 15 to phase out thousands of “transient vacation rentals” in apartment districts for the longer term, following the recovery from the devastating wildfires in 2023.

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There were nearly 9 million visitors to the state in the first 11 months of 2025, according to preliminary statistics from Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT).

Tourism numbers were slightly down by .2% compared to the same time period in 2024.

aerial view of hawaii with cruise ship in horizon

Hawaii’s “Green Fee” bill was set to raise tourist taxes substantially to help fund “climate change” mitigation this year, but a judge halted the provision.  (iStock)

Visitor spending in the month of November rose 15.9%, with the Aloha State raking in $1.77 billion, according to DBEDT.

Hawaii’s “Green Fee” bill was set to raise tourist taxes quite substantially to help fund “climate change” mitigation this year — but a judge has halted the provision. 

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The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), along with a cruise ship supplier, filed a lawsuit in early September challenging state tax and county finance officials in the Aloha State, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

On Dec. 31, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an injunction pending appeal. 

Kauai, Hawaii

The incident happened in Hawaii’s Waiapua‘a Bay. (iStock)

It temporarily blocks enforcement of the cruise-ship tax while the appeals proceed, The Associated Press (AP) reported.

The Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) was going to raise fees on tourists who stay at Hawaii hotels — while imposing a new 11% tax on cruises, according to the text of the bill.

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Toni Schwartz, spokesperson for the Hawaii attorney general’s office, told The Associated Press the office “remain[s] confident that Act 96 is lawful and will be vindicated when the appeal is heard on the merits.”

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Global Appeal 2026: Education as the Key to Ending Leprosy Stigma and Discrimination

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—  Launch Event in Brussels Will Be Live-Streamed Worldwide —

TOKYO, Jan. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The transformative power of education in replacing fear with knowledge and prejudice with empathy lies at the heart of the Global Appeal 2026 to End Stigma and Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy.

Global Appeal 2026
Global Appeal 2026

The appeal will be launched at a ceremony in Brussels, Belgium, on Thursday, 29 January 2026. The event is being co-hosted by Education International and the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative, in partnership with the Damien Foundation.

Since its establishment by the Initiative in 2006, the Global Appeal has been an annual call to action, aiming to mobilize different sectors of society—ranging from religious leaders and Nobel laureates to nurses and legal professionals—to sign a collective pledge to eliminate the social barriers surrounding leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease.

Although leprosy is often perceived as a disease of the past, it remains a health and human rights issue. In 2024, 172,717 new cases were reported from 133 countries. Millions of people worldwide live with leprosy-related disabilities, a reality that continues to fuel stigma and discrimination.

Addressing the misconceptions that perpetuate this injustice requires the transformative power of education. This is the message that Education International delivers through the Global Appeal 2026. As the global voice of teachers and education workers, Education International pledges to use its collective voice to promote knowledge, empathy and action, working toward a society in which the dignity of all individuals is upheld.

The launch event, which will be live-streamed worldwide, will bring together persons affected by leprosy, educators, policymakers, healthcare professionals, education unions, and civil society organizations, to reaffirm their shared commitment to dignity, inclusion and the principle of leaving no one behind.

The event will feature testimonials from persons affected by leprosy from Brazil, India, Indonesia and Senegal whose stories highlight the persistence of stigma even after medical cure. There will also be a panel discussion and a multi-stakeholder dialogue.

On the morning of the event, a delegation of persons affected by leprosy and participating stakeholders shall be received in audience by Her Majesty Queen Mathilde of the Belgians.

Time: 13:30 – 18:30 (CET)
Program: https://sasakawaleprosyinitiative.org/latest-updates/initiative-news/6359/
Streaming URL:
 https://eur.cvent.me/vvlkdx

About leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infectious disease that primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves. In 2024, 172,717 new cases were reported worldwide. Although leprosy is curable, delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in permanent disability. Beyond the physical toll, many people who have experienced leprosy continue to face deep-seated stigma and systemic discrimination, which prevents them from participating fully in society.

About Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative

The Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative is a strategic alliance of WHO Goodwill Ambassador Yohei Sasakawa, the Sasakawa Health Foundation, and The Nippon Foundation for achieving a world without leprosy and problems related to the disease. Since 1975, the Initiative has contributed over US$200 million to support national leprosy programs through the WHO. It is also committed to empowering persons affected by leprosy and their organizations. The Initiative has played a key role in raising leprosy as a human rights issue at the UN, resulting in several resolutions to eliminate discrimination against persons affected by leprosy and their families.

About Education International

Education International is the Global Union Federation that brings together organizations of teachers and other education employees from across the world. Through our 375 member organizations, we represent more than 33 million teachers and education support personnel in 180 countries and territories.

About Damien Foundation

Damien Foundation is a Belgian medical non-profit organization that works to support people with tuberculosis and skin-related neglected tropical diseases such as leprosy and leishmaniasis.

For over 60 years, we have shared this expertise in the area of public health by building solid partnerships wherever we go, to support vulnerable populations and help advance research.

We work to strengthen healthcare systems in support of, and at the request of, the national authorities of 13 countries.

Our mission is to provide equal access to robust health services throughout the world including Belgium, ensuring that no one suffers or dies from diseases that can be prevented and cured.

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