Latest news with #GL
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Castelion raises $350M Series B to scale hypersonic missile business
Hypersonic weapons startup Castelion has raised a $350 million Series B led by Lightspeed Venture Partners and Altimeter Capital, according to sources and documents viewed by TechCrunch. The round, which values the company in the billions, is anticipated to close in a matter of weeks. The new round comes on the heels of $100 million in Series A funding that closed in January. That round was composed of about $70 million in equity and $30 million of debt. Lightspeed also led that round. Castelion declined to comment. It is notoriously difficult for non-traditional players to break into the sizable government defense market, but Castelion has made notable strides since it emerged from stealth in late 2023. The company, which was founded by former SpaceX executives, wants to transform the production of hypersonic missile systems, a critical national security technology. Despite the U.S. Department of Defense's massive budget, military leaders are sounding the alarm on China's ability to rapidly develop and field hypersonics. These weapons travel above Mach 5 — and China's capabilities are starting to outpace the United States. Castelion is proposing a solution. The business takes a similar approach to SpaceX: build quickly, test frequently, and vertically integrate to drive down costs. It has already won grants and awards from a suite of DoD offices, including the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Naval Air System Command. The company tested its hypersonic vehicle for the first time in the Mojave Desert in March as it looks to prove to the government that it can field low-cost hypersonic missiles at scale. Castelion appeared in the U.S. Army's fiscal year 2026 budget request published in June. In the budget, the military branch has requested $25 million under an initiative called Project HX3 to support the development and testing of an 'affordable, mass-produced hypersonic weapon' called Blackbeard Ground Launch (GL). As the document explains, Blackbeard GL will have around 80% of the capability of a long-range hypersonic weapon variant currently being developed by aerospace primes. But through the contract, the Army is saying it is willing to trade a little bit of speed and range for a lower-cost product. The forthcoming contract, which is essentially a done deal once President Trump signs the budget into law, has two phases: the first will see Castelion deliver a 'prototype proof-of-concept' that it will demonstrate in early 2026. If that is successful, the second phase will include the delivery of 10 prototype missiles in 2027 for additional testing using a standard launcher platform called High Mobility Artillery Rocket System. Blackbeard is also being designed to be compatible with a new launcher system that will have autonomous capabilities. All of Castelion's previous wins with the DoD are a pittance compared to the possibilities afforded by the lucrative hypersonic-weapons market. If the Army field testing goes well, Castelion could ink a larger contract and begin delivering Blackbeard missiles in early 2028. Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman may want to watch their backs. Sign in to access your portfolio
Bangkok Post
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Bangkok Post
Telling our truth
Pride in Action 2025 unfolded last week at Lido Connect Hall 2 in Siam Square, gathering prominent voices across various fields to empower and celebrate the LGBTI community under the theme "Together Now, Together Always". From 3pm to early evening, thought leaders, public officials and creatives came together to discuss LGBTI rights, visibility and cultural narratives -- culminating in one of the most emotionally resonant panels of the day. Titled "LGBTI Stories In Culture", the final panel explored how culture and media shape and reflect the LGBTI experience. Two celebrated voices took the stage: Sira Siravitch Kamonworawut, better known as Thailand's iconic Madonna impersonator, drag performer, actor and online personality; and Nophasit Thiengtham, vice-president and secretary-general of the Association for the Promotion of Boys and Girls Content, a key figure in the Thai BL/GL media boom. Their conversation, rich in both lived experience and industry insight, painted a complex yet hopeful picture of where Thailand's LGBTI movement stands today -- and where it could go next. "We have come a long, long way, and are really proud of Thailand," Nophasit said as he opened his reflections on this year's movement. "We finally reached this moment. The amount of people who participated at last year's Pride Parade was only half of the people this year, and not only that, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage." He smiled, the weight of progress and years of advocacy behind his words. "I'm not going to go over it, but we are very happy about it, and we are getting there -- going slowly, but getting there. So we are not just sitting here doing nothing. The government's also trying to help us, and we are all waiting and ready to see what's coming next." For Sira, the energy this year felt different -- and deeper. "We saw a significant change in this year's celebration and the recognition of Pride Month, because the equality marriage bill that passed serves as the wind beneath the wings and makes it more meaningful, more powerful for the movement. It became the inspiration for the community to actually make things happen and progress in a very positive direction." That sense of direction is now being propelled by the explosion of LGBTI content in Thai media -- especially in the form of BL (Boys' Love) and GL (Girls' Love) series, which have gained widespread attention both domestically and internationally. Nophasit, whose organisation promotes and supports these creative sectors, offered a pragmatic overview of this cultural shift. "Nowadays, the BL and GL series are doing extremely well nationally, and internationally. From last year, we increased by about 17% of the income from this industry, which hopefully this year will reach close to 4 billion baht," he noted. "And there are so many changes in terms of content and script writing. In the past, if you were watching Thai drama on the major channels, we always had LGBTI characters -- but often they were based on stereotypes. You know, they were there to be funny, to tone down the seriousness of the drama, and had no character arc. About 60% of Thai dramas were like that." But times are changing. "In today's series, especially in the Boys' Love format, each character is created to have a background and not be one-dimensional. There are stories created for them, and we follow their lives -- through childhood, school, university and even into working life. And during that time, we see their feelings and their struggles, searching for what their true gender or identity really is." For Sira, this broader, more nuanced representation has a ripple effect -- especially within families. "People understand us, the LGBTI community, more than before," she said thoughtfully. "Understanding comes in many dimensions, but the most important dimension is actually the family -- the unit of society. This acceptance of more LGBTI identities in social media, in culture, has paved the way and made it easier for families to understand. In my generation, some of my friends had to flee to live abroad, because they could not talk to their family. "I get asked all the time, how did I tell or come out of the closet with family members? In the past, kids were forced to explain themselves to their parents. But now with Y series, sometimes parents can find answers to those questions they didn't understand -- without having to confront their children. So now it's easier. So thanks to the more acceptance and more identities of LGBTI people being portrayed in media." Of course, Sira was quick to clarify that while the media has power, it's still fiction. "Much like any other gender depicted in the media, there's no accuracy about it. Because they are fiction, made-up stories. Even though the fiction we see in the media and the reality might be different, there's an important message -- that love is gender-free. So there is hope for all of us." The discussion also touched on an ongoing global debate. Should only queer actors portray queer characters? Nophasit's stance was clear. "We're talking about acting here. When we cast actors and actresses, we do not ask them what gender they are. We just give them a sheet of paper with the script. Then, once they're in front of the directors and producers, they act according to what they believe in that script. So this is acting. I'm not saying, oh, if you're straight, you can't play this role. Or that you have to be gay to be able to play this role. No, that would be discrimination." As a drag performer, Sira also addressed changing perceptions of drag in Thai culture. "Not only love is gender free -- art is also gender free," she said. "Our approach to drag performances -- the stories that we come up with -- the key message is to present the art. And we become the inspiration for the new generation. Now even some straight actors have told me they want to try to dress like a drag sometimes. And you know, I would love to show them how hard it can be," she added with a laugh. Asked about their hopes for future representation, both speakers had clear visions. "Right now, many series are being produced regarding the new law to include that in the series as well," Nophasit said. "Thailand now has the same-sex marriage law. We try to tie that information in, as well as other soft power elements. So this will be a good way to educate fan clubs and viewers. I really want Thailand to be a hub for BL and GL content. The market is growing tremendously." Sira, meanwhile, turned her gaze outward. "I would love to see more Thai drags on the world stage, because we have potential. Our potential is not less than other countries when it comes to the talent of drags in Thailand." Before the panel wrapped, the two left messages for the younger generation. "It's time to be yourself," said Nophasit. "Now Thailand is opening up, so you have the right to be yourself. From what I saw at the parade this year, all the youngsters came out and really enjoyed themselves. They dressed up, they showed their talents. You don't need to hide this any more -- come up and show yourself. As long as you are a good person, I'm sure the country, the government, all of us, will support every path you take." And for Sira, the next step is simple -- but vital. "With the entertainment field -- with the BL and GL series -- I just hope more people locally and abroad will continue to accept and support us, the Thai series. Thailand has a very unique culture, and the way the script is written is really different from other countries. They are subtle and light-hearted. So please embrace us. And I hope we can get more funding from the government for the BL and GL industries."
GMA Network
29-05-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
92 Mercury Drug stores to accept guarantee letters from AICS, AKAP beneficiaries
Several Mercury Drug stores nationwide will accept guarantee letters (GL) from the beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) starting June 2. According to Isa Avendaño-Umali's report on Super Radyo dzBB on Thursday, 92 branches of the pharmacy brand will recognize the letters issued by the DSWD to help beneficiaries save money in purchasing medicines. The participating outlets will accept GLs issued by the DSWD Central Office and field offices in the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Central Visayas, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, SOCSKSARGEN, and Caraga. AICS is targeted to individuals or families who are experiencing crisis, tragedy, or severe poverty. On the other hand, AKAP is meant for individuals earning below the minimum wage. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BM, GMA Integrated News
Scoop
28-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Providing Sanctions Relief For The Syrian People
Marco Rubio, Secretary of State May 23, 2025 In accordance with the President's promise to deliver sanctions relief to Syria, I have issued a 180-day waiver of mandatory Caesar Act sanctions to ensure sanctions do not impede the ability of our partners to make stability-driving investments, and advance Syria's recovery and reconstruction efforts. These waivers will facilitate the provision of electricity, energy, water, and sanitation, and enable a more effective humanitarian response across Syria. In addition, the Department of the Treasury issued Syria General License (GL) 25 to authorize transactions by U.S. persons previously prohibited by the Syrian Sanctions Regulations, effectively lifting sanctions on Syria. The GL will allow for new investment and private sector activity consistent with the President's America First strategy. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is providing exceptive relief to permit U.S. financial institutions to maintain correspondent accounts for the Commercial Bank of Syria. Today's actions represent the first step in delivering on the President's vision of a new relationship between Syria and the United States. President Trump is providing the Syrian government with the chance to promote peace and stability, both within Syria and in Syria's relations with its neighbors. The President has made clear his expectation that relief will be followed by prompt action by the Syrian government on important policy priorities. The sanctions waiver is issued pursuant to section 7432(b)(1) of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019 (22 U.S.C. 8791 note).
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Aderant Launches Next-Gen Cloud Financial Management Applications at 2025 Momentum Global Event
New Cloud Accounts Receivable (AR), Cloud General Ledger (GL), Stridyn Analytics, and askMADDI Deliver Enhanced Intelligence and Automation Capabilities, Transforming Law Firms' Financial Operations ATLANTA, May 20, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today Aderant®, the leading global business management software provider for law firms, launched four new cloud-based technology solutions – Cloud Accounts Receivable (AR), Cloud General Ledger (GL), Stridyn Analytics, and askMADDI – at its Momentum Global conference in Dallas, Texas. These new AI-powered applications deliver a more unified, modern, and personalized user experience, enabling firm accounting and finance teams to better coordinate, access real-time data, improve decision making, and drive efficiency in daily, monthly, and year-end activities. "Aderant is laser focused on delivering an unmatched client experience, and the launch of these new cloud-based financial management applications at 2025 Global Momentum will continue to raise the bar," said Chris Cartrett, President & CEO of Aderant. "Aderant is the leader in business of law solutions for the world's largest law firms. We do not take our role in these firms' daily operations lightly and continue to live our mission to deliver mission critical solutions that drive exceptional business results for law firms through relentless commitment to innovation and our clients." At the event, attendees have exclusive opportunities to see onsite demonstrations of these new applications, as well as access to pricing promotions only available to event attendees. Highlights of the next-gen cloud financial management applications include: Next-Gen Cloud Accounts Receivable The Aderant cloud-based AR solution in Expert Sierra streamlines end-to-end cash receipting, improving speed, accuracy, and visibility. Powered by MADDI, Aderant's AI-powered virtual associate, it automates invoice matching, eliminates manual remittance handling, and reduces paper use. Law firms benefit from faster adjustments, better tracking of partial payments, and real-time cash reporting for more efficient audits. Next-Gen Cloud General Ledger Historically, the general ledger has been a highly manual process ripe for innovation. Now, integrated with MADDI to deliver next-gen insights and automation to query and filter information, the new cloud-based GL solution in Expert Sierra is designed to enhance, automate, and streamline financial activities. It empowers firms to maximize profitability and eliminate fraud by enabling more efficient and optimized decision-making, powered by AI. Stridyn Analytics for Next-Gen Reporting and Analytics The cloud-based Stridyn platform was launched at 2024 Momentum Global, and Stridyn Analytics now furthers its capabilities by unifying financial, operational, and practice management data to deliver real-time insights through a single, intuitive platform. With AI-powered analytics, natural language queries, and customizable dashboards, users can easily access and act on key information—no technical expertise required. Scalable and accessible from anywhere, it empowers law firms to make confident, data-driven decisions faster. askMADDI Further enhancing the power of its MADDI AI solution, askMADDI delivers a seamless Natural Language Query (NLQ) experience, enabling users to effortlessly access and understand data from a multitude of integrated Aderant cloud applications. Simply put, askMADDI is purposefully designed and built to empower legal professionals with faster insights, streamlined workflows, and intelligent support. Seamlessly integrated into the Stridyn platform, askMADDI delivers context-aware answers and actionable intelligence. Acting as a trusted virtual associate, askMADDI is always on, always responsive, and always willing to empower users with power of AI, amplifying their productivity. "AI is revolutionizing the way businesses manage their financial operations. By integrating AI into our new cloud-based Accounts Receivable and General Ledger applications, we're enabling smarter automation, reducing errors, and accelerating decision-making," said Andy Hoyt, Chief Technology Officer at Aderant. "This technology not only streamlines workflows but also empowers finance teams with predictive insights, helping them stay ahead in an increasingly dynamic marketplace." For more information about Aderant, go to About Aderant® Aderant is dedicated to helping law firms run a better business. As a leading global provider of business management and practice-of-law solutions, the world's best firms rely on Aderant to keep their businesses moving forward and inspire innovation. At Aderant, the "A" is more than just a letter. It represents how we fulfill our foundational purpose, serving our clients. Aderant operates as a business unit of Roper Technologies (Nasdaq: ROP), a constituent of the Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and Fortune 1000. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and has several other offices across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. For more information, visit email info@ or follow the company on LinkedIn. View source version on Contacts Aderant Contact Will Ayers, Senior Communications Strategist at Media Contact Christy Burke, Burke & Company PR917-623-5096cburke@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
