Businesses
Here's a look at documents from U.S. and international businesses
Featured Stories
Smithfield Foods to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2025 Results on March 24, 2026
SMITHFIELD, Virginia, March 4 -- Smithfield Foods, an American food company, issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Smithfield Foods to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2025 Results on March 24, 2026
Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD), an American food company and an industry leader in value-added packaged meats and fresh pork, today announced that its financial results for the fiscal 2025 fourth quarter and full year will be released before market open on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The company will host a conference call at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the
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SMITHFIELD, Virginia, March 4 -- Smithfield Foods, an American food company, issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Smithfield Foods to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2025 Results on March 24, 2026
Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD), an American food company and an industry leader in value-added packaged meats and fresh pork, today announced that its financial results for the fiscal 2025 fourth quarter and full year will be released before market open on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The company will host a conference call at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss thefinancial results. A live audio webcast of the conference call, together with related materials, will be available online at investors.smithfieldfoods.com.
A recorded replay of the conference call will be available approximately three hours after the conclusion of the call and can be accessed both online at investors.smithfieldfoods.com and by dialing 855-669-9658 (international callers please dial 412-317-0088). The pin number to access the telephone replay is 4370056. The replay will be available until March 31, 2026.
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About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD) is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers, we responsibly meet demand for quality protein around the world. For more information, please visit investors.smithfieldfoods.com.
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Original text here: https://www.smithfieldfoods.com/press-room/smithfield-foods-to-announce-fourth-quarter-and-full-year-fiscal-2025-results-on-march-24-2026
[Category: Food/Beverages]
Sedgwick Launches New Future-Ready Property Claims Report
MEMPHIS, Tennessee, March 4 (TNSrep) -- Sedgwick, a provider of technology-enabled risk and benefit solutions, issued the following news release:
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Sedgwick launches new future-ready property claims report
Sedgwick, the world's leading risk and claims administration partner, has launched a new report focused on future-ready property claims: leveraging technology and AI for strategic advantage. The report is designed to guide property carriers as AI adoption accelerates across claims, and to explore what it takes to scale automation, orchestrate workflows, and fully realize AI's value across
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MEMPHIS, Tennessee, March 4 (TNSrep) -- Sedgwick, a provider of technology-enabled risk and benefit solutions, issued the following news release:
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Sedgwick launches new future-ready property claims report
Sedgwick, the world's leading risk and claims administration partner, has launched a new report focused on future-ready property claims: leveraging technology and AI for strategic advantage. The report is designed to guide property carriers as AI adoption accelerates across claims, and to explore what it takes to scale automation, orchestrate workflows, and fully realize AI's value acrossthe claims lifecycle.
AI in insurance is expected to become an $80 billion market by 2032, yet nearly two-thirds of carriers have a gap between their AI vision and reality. Sedgwick's new report helps support carriers understanding where they are in their AI journey, as 90% of carriers say AI needs to be orchestrated across operations to maximize their investments. As AI tools become standard across the industry, strategy sets leading carriers apart.
"AI is rapidly reshaping property claims, yet speed alone isn't enough. Sedgwick's latest report explores how carriers can move beyond experimentation to strategically scale automation, orchestrate workflows, and realize AI's full potential across the claims lifecycle," said Scott Richardson, President, Property of Americas, Sedgwick.
Key findings and data in the full report include:
* While 58-82% of carriers use AI tools in their operations, only 12% of carriers claim to have fully mature AI capabilities, and only 7% have achieved scalable AI success
* 75% of claims professionals believe AI needs human oversight.
* Widespread AI adoption hasn't translated into maturity for carriers, with fragmented tools and inconsistent data often limiting AI's impact.
* Automation is valuable for high-volume, low-complexity tasks, but human expertise remains critical for complex and sensitive losses.
"AI is accelerating faster than any technology in our lifetime. Strategy isn't optional, it's the new competitive advantage Long-term success, ROI, and impact from AI lies in how carriers leverage this technology," said David Gauragna, Managing Director Property, Sedgwick.
Sedgwick's extensive expertise in AI and emerging technology has positioned the company to understand where most property carriers stand today in their AI adoption journeys, learn what's preventing them from moving beyond pilots to fully integrated AI workflows, and drive measurable improvements. In addition, the company has nuanced expertise in strategically balancing automation with human touch, and scaling AI across organizations for long-term success.
Mason Bartleson, Vice President Business Transformation, Sedgwick added, "fully mature AI capabilities, in tandem with human expertise, will drive measurable results in speed, accuracy, and cost savings. This report is meant to guide carriers now and well into the future as this technology continues to rapidly advance."
To read the full report and learn more, please visit sedgwick (https://www.sedgwick.com/2026-tech-in-property-claims-guide/?utm_source=web&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=property_insights_media_leadgen_property_us_na_awrs_na_20260225_na&utm_content=aitechpropclaims).
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About Sedgwick
Sedgwick is the world's leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company's expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick's majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.
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Original text here: https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-launches-new-future-ready-property-claims-report/
[Category: BizInsurance]
In IP Litigator, David McIntosh and Sam Ross Examine a Potential Cautionary Tale in Patent Assignments
BOSTON, Massachusetts, March 4 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Ropes and Gray, a law firm, issued the following news:
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In IP Litigator, David McIntosh and Sam Ross Examine a Potential Cautionary Tale in Patent Assignments
In an IP Litigator article, IP transactions partner David McIntosh and IP transactions associate Sam Ross examined a potential cautionary tale in patent assignments.
In the case Causam Enterprises, Inc. v. International Trade Commission, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) found that an invention assignment agreement that broadly assigned the
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, March 4 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Ropes and Gray, a law firm, issued the following news:
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In IP Litigator, David McIntosh and Sam Ross Examine a Potential Cautionary Tale in Patent Assignments
In an IP Litigator article, IP transactions partner David McIntosh and IP transactions associate Sam Ross examined a potential cautionary tale in patent assignments.
In the case Causam Enterprises, Inc. v. International Trade Commission, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) found that an invention assignment agreement that broadly assigned the"invention" of a patent application nonetheless did not transfer rights in a "continuation-in-part" of that patent application. This decision counsels companies active in the patent space to review their form employment or invention assignment agreements to ensure that they include a specific assignment of "continuations-in-part," and to review existing patent assignment agreements to ensure appropriate language has been included.
The authors note the CAFC's holding in this case has implications for both existing and future patent assignments and provide considerations for companies and individuals.
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Original text here: https://www.ropesgray.com/en/news-and-events/news/2026/03/in-ip-litigator-david-mcintosh-sam-ross-examine-potential-cautionary-tale-patent-assignments
Highly Awaited Monarch San Antonio Opens Its Doors, Ushering in a New Era for Downtown
MCLEAN, Virginia, March 4 -- Hilton Worldwide Holdings posted the following news release:
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The Highly Awaited Monarch San Antonio Opens Its Doors, Ushering in a New Era for Downtown
The $185M lifestyle hotel brings sophisticated accommodations, exceptional amenities & chef driven cuisine just steps from the River Walk and the Alamo
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SAN ANTONIO -- More than a decade in the making, one of Texas's most anticipated hotels makes its long-awaited debut as The Monarch San Antonio, Curio Collection by Hilton opens today in the reimagined Hemisfair District, marking a defining new chapter for
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MCLEAN, Virginia, March 4 -- Hilton Worldwide Holdings posted the following news release:
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The Highly Awaited Monarch San Antonio Opens Its Doors, Ushering in a New Era for Downtown
The $185M lifestyle hotel brings sophisticated accommodations, exceptional amenities & chef driven cuisine just steps from the River Walk and the Alamo
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SAN ANTONIO -- More than a decade in the making, one of Texas's most anticipated hotels makes its long-awaited debut as The Monarch San Antonio, Curio Collection by Hilton opens today in the reimagined Hemisfair District, marking a defining new chapter forthe city's hotel landscape with stays now available.
Rising 17 stories at the crossroads of downtown's most dynamic district, the $185 million property reflects a commitment to exceptional design, elevated service and the enduring legacy of its owners and operators, Zachry Hospitality, whose family has maintained century-long ties to the city. The Monarch is part of Curio Collection by Hilton, a global portfolio of individually distinctive hotels selected for their unique character and connection to the destination. Just steps from the River Walk and the Alamo, The Monarch is ideally positioned within the local market, offering refined accommodations that place guests in the heart of the city's energy while providing a sophisticated retreat above it all.
"We're proud to introduce The Monarch as a hotel that reflects the Zachry family's longstanding connection to San Antonio and their belief in its future," said Rick Slutter, managing director, Zachry Hospitality. "This site carries deep significance for the family, and we approached it with a sense of responsibility to honor what has stood here before while contributing something lasting to the city's next chapter. The Monarch is an investment in downtown's continued evolution and a place designed for how people want to gather, stay and experience San Antonio today."
"As we near 200 hotels worldwide, Curio Collection is continuing to expand its footprint and offering guests the one-of-a-kind stays they crave in destinations worth exploring," said Brooke Thomas, brand leader, Curio Collection by Hilton. "The Monarch builds upon that momentum with its unforgettable design ethos, world-class dining and elevated offerings that are a core part of the Curio Collection experience."
Designed by San Antonio-based Overland Partners, with interiors by The Gettys Group and KBAA, the hotel draws inspiration from the monarch butterflies that migrate through the region each year. Sculptural forms and open-air spaces reflect metamorphosis, with each floor representing a stage in the butterfly's journey from emergence to flight. The building's graceful curvature embraces the adjacent park, guiding a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, while furnishings influenced by the movement of nature and a curated program of regionally sourced art, textiles and ceramics reinforce the concept throughout.
High arches lead into a lobby defined by vertical wood ribbons that rise across soaring ceilings. Gentle curves, layered textures and luminous waterfall lighting create a sense of motion, complemented by a floating staircase and sculptural details. Public spaces balance intimacy and openness, pairing lounge-like nooks with larger social areas designed for gathering.
Featuring 200 guest rooms, including 28 suites, each room is thoughtfully designed for comfort and ease. Filled with natural light and overlooking the adjacent park, the accommodations pair well-considered layouts with curated comforts, from SFERRA Italian linens and blackout curtains for uninterrupted sleep, to ergonomic workspaces, Platinum Vertuo Nespresso coffee machines and integrated technology with interactive tablets. Bathrooms showcase textural finishes and a calming, earth-toned palette, complemented by Texas-based Niven Morgan premium products. Every detail, from signature scent diffusers to ambient lighting, reinforces the hotel's commitment to a polished and deeply intuitive stay.
The culinary program at The Monarch is led by Executive Chef Jae H. Lee, bringing global expertise that celebrates technique-led preparation, premium meats and seafood and market-driven sourcing. The hotel's three chef-driven destinations offer distinct identities while reflecting the hotel's ethos of thoughtful execution and elevated hospitality:
Oak & Amber
Located just off the lobby, the hotel's signature restaurant is anchored by a glowing mesquite-and-oak hearth where chefs cook over Texas post oak and pecan wood. The dinner-focused menu draws inspiration from Texas ranchers, Gulf waters and regional orchards, balancing elemental flavors with refined execution. Highlights to include a robust seafood and steak program, including a Prime Rib Trolley featuring 28-day dry-aged Texas beef ribeye, carved tableside. An extensive raw bar highlights fresh East Coast selections, alongside formal caviar service and a wine program featuring more than 300 labels. The space features light, neutral tones and curved architectural details, creating a luminous and inviting atmosphere. To book a reservation at Oak & Amber, visit OpenTable.
Aleteo
Rising 17 stories above downtown, Aleteo, meaning "flutter" in Spanish, is a rooftop restaurant and bar drawing inspiration from Yucatan cuisine. The menu pairs vibrant flavors with bold preparations, alongside mezcal-focused cocktails and features a dedicated "Raw and Cured" section with aguachiles, ceviches and tartares. A selection of more than a dozen house-made salsas underscores the restaurant's focus on balance and heat, while the tortilla program features imported corn ground in-house on volcanic stone and made fresh to order using traditional techniques. With indoor and outdoor seating commanding the most impressive views of the city, Aleteo anchors the rooftop as a lively addition to downtown. To book a reservation at Aleteo, visit OpenTable.
The Nectarie Cafe
Designed as a serene retreat just off the lobby, the light-filled, French-influenced bistro serves breakfast and lunch, emphasizing freshness and ease. The cafe offers La Colombe coffee and Rare Tea Co. single-origin loose-leaf teas, alongside a pastry program rooted in French laminated doughs with German and Texan nods. The full-service menu centers on classic, well-executed Parisian dishes while a convenient take-out window serves park visitors and downtown locals.
Wellness offerings provide a tranquil hideaway with a full-service spa featuring four treatment rooms and a range of services, including massages, facials, hydrothermal experiences and couples' treatments, emphasizing botanical therapies and earth-inspired renewal. Inviting restoration and reflection, guests can also enjoy infrared sauna sessions, IV vitamin drips and cold plunges. The adjacent 550-square-foot fitness studio provides Reaxing neuroactive training equipment for mindful movement, strength and cardio, while the third-floor pool deck, featuring cabanas, offers a peaceful oasis above downtown.
For gatherings, the hotel features 15,000 square feet of versatile event space, including eight distinctive venues and the 5,000-square-foot Meridian Ballroom. Located on a single floor with abundant natural light and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, these spaces provide a seamless setting for business meetings, corporate events and large celebrations.
Anchoring both the hotel and the surrounding park, La Mariposa is a $2 million public art installation designed to become a defining symbol of downtown San Antonio. The three-winged pavilion features stained glass that reflects the surrounding landscape, while more than three miles of integrated LED lighting illuminate the wings in a radiant glow visible from the rooftop terrace and across the district. Evolving with the seasons and special celebrations, the installation transforms throughout the year, establishing a dynamic civic landmark and an unmistakable gathering point for visitors and residents.
The Monarch San Antonio, Curio Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton's 26 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.
Now open in downtown, The Monarch San Antonio, part of Curio Collection by Hilton, offers room rates starting at $398 per night. To reserve a stay, visit TheMonarchSA.com.
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About Hilton
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 26 world-class brands comprising more than 9,100 properties and over 1.3 million rooms, in 143 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 4 billion guests in its more than 100-year history. Named as the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune, Hilton aims to create the best culture for its 500,000 team members around the world. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 243 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
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About Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of nearly 200 individually remarkable hotels hand-picked to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world's most sought-after destinations. Each hotel in the collection evokes a bespoke story through distinctive architecture and design, world-class food & beverage and curated experiences, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Experience Curio Collection by booking at curiocollection.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Curio Collection by Hilton at stories.hilton.com/curio, and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and X.
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About The Monarch San Antonio
The Monarch San Antonio ushers in a new era of hospitality as downtown's newest lifestyle hotel, rising in the reimagined Hemisfair District where historic streets, parkland and culture converge. Steps from the River Walk, the Alamo and the city's vibrant arts and dining scene, the 17-story, 200-room hotel is owned and operated by San Antonio-based Zachry Hospitality. Standing on the very site where the H.B. Zachry helped shape the 1968 World's Fair, The Monarch continues the Zachry family's century-long legacy of building and enriching the city they call home. Inspired by the monarch butterflies that migrate through San Antonio each year, the hotel unites nature and architecture through sculptural design and open-air spaces. Contemporary lines, limestone textures and regional art create an atmosphere of calm sophistication. Dining venues tell a story of craft and connection -- from Oak & Amber's fire-driven warmth to Aleteo's rooftop views and The Nectarie Cafe's organic offerings. The Spa centers wellness through botanical therapies, complemented by a third-floor pool deck and modern fitness center. Anchored by La Mariposa, a sculptural pavilion symbolizing transformation, The Monarch opens in March 2026 as a new expression of lifestyle rooted in design, connection and place. Learn more at TheMonarchSA.com.
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Original text here: https://stories.hilton.com/releases/the-highly-awaited-monarch-san-antonio-now-open
[Category: BizTravel]
Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2026: Timeless lessons for today's investment challenges
NEW YORK, March 4 [Category: BizFinancial Services] -- UBS, a financial services provider, issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2026: Timeless lessons for today's investment challenges
The Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2026 draws on historical data stretching back to 1900, putting today's investment challenges and debates into perspective. The latest edition highlights what has driven real asset returns over time and what lessons we can draw on to help navigate the future.
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Zurich, 3 March 2026 - Launched today by UBS Investment
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, March 4 [Category: BizFinancial Services] -- UBS, a financial services provider, issued the following news release on March 3, 2026:
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Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2026: Timeless lessons for today's investment challenges
The Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2026 draws on historical data stretching back to 1900, putting today's investment challenges and debates into perspective. The latest edition highlights what has driven real asset returns over time and what lessons we can draw on to help navigate the future.
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Zurich, 3 March 2026 - Launched today by UBS InvestmentBank and UBS Global Wealth Management's Chief Investment Office, in partnership with Professor Paul Marsh and Dr. Mike Staunton of London Business School and Professor Elroy Dimson of Cambridge University, the latest edition of the Global Investment Returns Yearbook draws on more than 125 years of historical data. It provides an invaluable foundation for understanding the long-term evolution of global financial markets.
Some notable observations from the 2026 edition include the following:
* Global markets have been transformed since 1900. From a relatively balanced global equity market at the start of the 20th century, the US now dominates global equity capitalization, accounting for 62% of total world equity market value. This reflects strong long term equity returns and sustained equity issuance, even as the US share of global GDP has declined from mid century peaks.
* New technologies do not always generate bubbles, nor do bubbles necessarily imply weak long-term returns. Railroads, dominant in 1900 and now less than 1% of the US market, have still outperformed over the long run. Similarly, technology stocks - despite the dot-com collapse - delivered superior multidecade returns relative to the broader US market.
* Equities are the top-performing liquid asset. Since 1900, equities have outperformed bonds, bills and inflation across all countries with continuous investment histories. An initial investment of USD 1 in equities in 1900 grew to USD 124,854 in nominal terms by end 2025, compared with USD 284 for long bonds, and USD 69 for Treasury bills.
* Developed markets have outperformed over the long run. Since 1900, developed markets delivered higher annualized equity returns (8.5%) than emerging markets (6.9%). However, emerging markets outperformed over more recent periods, returning 10.9% per year from 1960 to 2025 compared with 9.6% for developed markets.
* Inflation has a key impact on long-term returns. Despite relatively low inflation in the US by global standards - averaging 2.9% per year since 1900 - this still means that USD 1 in 1900 had the same purchasing power as USD 38 today. When comparing returns over time or across countries, the focus should be on real, inflation-adjusted returns. The real returns from equities have resoundingly beaten inflation
* Gold's role as an inflation hedge is nuanced. Gold delivered negative returns in 13 of the 28 years when inflation exceeded 3%, but over the very long run it has preserved purchasing power, with the real USD gold price rising 5.2 fold since 1900, equivalent to an annualized real return of 1.3%. Gold has sometimes been effective as an equity market hedge.
* Economic risk has historically outweighed geopolitical risk. While extreme geopolitical events have coincided with some of the worst market outcomes since 1900, most large peacetime equity drawdowns were triggered by economic rather than geopolitical factors. Investors should look beyond short term geopolitical noise.
* New work on currency hedging shows benefits of reducing volatility. Currency risk on average added around 6 percentage points to total risk whether we focus on equities or bonds, although currency risk adds proportionally more to the risk of bond portfolios. This may explain the higher preponderance of hedging for fixed income portfolios.
* Diversification is becoming more challenging, but still works. Market concentration and rising correlations have increased the difficulty of diversification, yet historical evidence shows that global diversification and balanced equity bond portfolios have continued to reduce risk and drawdowns.
Dan Dowd, Head of Global Research, UBS Investment Bank, says: "The 2026 edition of the Global Investment Returns Yearbook reinforces the value of utilizing history to understand current market dynamics. With 126 years of data, it provides a powerful framework for understanding how asset allocation, diversification and the enduring principles of risk reward shape long term investment outcomes. This historical perspective is particularly important at a time when market concentration, technological change and geopolitical uncertainty are high."
Mark Haefele, Chief Investment Officer, UBS Global Wealth Management, says: "The Global Investment Returns Yearbook reminds us that while markets and technologies evolve, the core principles of successful investing endure. History continues to show the importance of diversification, disciplined asset allocation and maintaining a long-term perspective."
Professor Paul Marsh, London Business School, adds: "In periods of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, it can be easy to lose perspective of the long-term investment horizon. The Yearbook, with its database stretching back 126 years, provides a rich source of information and experience to help readers screen out the short-term noise and learn from the past to better invest for the future."
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About the Global Investment Returns Yearbook
The Global Investment Returns Yearbook is the authoritative guide to historical long-run returns. Most recently published by UBS in collaboration with the London Business School, and prior to this the Credit Suisse Research Institute, it covers all the main asset categories in 35 markets. Most of these markets, as well as the world index have 126 years of data since 1900
About UBS
UBS is a leading and truly global wealth manager and the leading universal bank in Switzerland. It also provides diversified asset management solutions and focused investment banking capabilities. UBS manages 7 trillion dollars of invested assets as per the fourth quarter 2025. UBS helps clients achieve their financial goals through personalized advice, solutions and products. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the firm is operating in more than 50 markets around the globe. UBS Group shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
About London Business School
London Business School's purpose is to have a profound impact on the way the world does business and the way business impacts the world. The School is consistently ranked among the world's top business schools and is widely acknowledged as a center for outstanding research and thought leadership.
In addition to its highly ranked degree programmes, the School offers award-winning Executive Education for business leaders from around the world, frequently placing it at the top of global rankings for open and custom executive learning.
Alongside its main campus in London, London Business School has a long-standing campus in Dubai and, in late 2025, officially opened an Executive Education office in Riyadh's historic Diriyah district, marking a deepened commitment to developing leadership and human capability in the Kingdom. This new presence reflects LBS's expanding footprint in the Middle East and its partnerships with leading organizations across the region.
The School equips its diverse student body with the tools needed to tackle today's business challenges and connects them with many of the world's leading thinkers. Its global community includes more than 58,000 alumni working in over 160 countries, united by a wealth of knowledge, experience and worldwide networking opportunities. London Business School's faculty members come from more than 30 countries and cover seven core subject areas, including accounting, economics, finance, management science and operations, marketing, organizational behavior and strategy and entrepreneurship.
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Original text here: https://www.ubs.com/global/en/media/display-page-ndp/en-20260303-global-investment-returns-yearbook-2026.html?caasID=CAAS-ActivityStream
Dow Receives CAD $1.62 billion Payment From NOVA Following Alberta Court of Appeal Decision
MIDLAND, Michigan, March 4 -- Dow, a materials science company that says it serves customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications, issued the following news release:
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Dow receives CAD $1.62 billion payment from NOVA following Alberta Court of Appeal decision
Dow (NYSE: DOW) confirms receipt of a CAD $1.62 billion payment (approximately USD $1.2 billion) from NOVA Chemicals in damages following the Alberta Court of Appeal's denial of NOVA's request to stay execution of the June 2025 Court of King's Bench judgment during its appeal.
The
... Show Full Article
MIDLAND, Michigan, March 4 -- Dow, a materials science company that says it serves customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications, issued the following news release:
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Dow receives CAD $1.62 billion payment from NOVA following Alberta Court of Appeal decision
Dow (NYSE: DOW) confirms receipt of a CAD $1.62 billion payment (approximately USD $1.2 billion) from NOVA Chemicals in damages following the Alberta Court of Appeal's denial of NOVA's request to stay execution of the June 2025 Court of King's Bench judgment during its appeal.
TheJune 2025 judgment awarded Dow additional damages related to NOVA's failure to operate the jointly owned ethylene asset in Joffre, Alberta, at full capacity and expanded the loss period previously addressed by the court.
In addition to the damages award, Dow confirms receipt of CAD $140 million (approximately USD $100 million) in costs, along with post judgment interest, bringing the total proceeds paid to Dow to CAD $1.8 billion (approximately USD $1.3 billion).
The recent payment of CAD $1.8 billion (approximately USD $1.3 billion) by NOVA to Dow is subject to a Canadian tax withholding that is expected to be remitted back to the Company in full no later than year end.
In a 2019 ruling, the Court of Queen's Bench awarded Dow CAD $1.43 billion (USD $1.08 billion), which NOVA paid on Oct. 10, 2019, following findings that NOVA violated contractual obligations between 2001 and 2012.
Dow anticipates that the Alberta Court of Appeal will uphold the rulings on appeal.
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About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world's leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications. Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, customer-focused innovation and leading business positions enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 29 countries and employ approximately 34,600 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $40 billion in 2025. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us at www.dow.comopens in a new tab.
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Original text here: https://corporate.dow.com/en-us/news/press-releases/dow-receives-cad-1-62-billion-payment-from-nova-following-alberta-court-of-appeal-decision.html
[Category: BizLaboratory Sciences]
American Family Insurance Reports Strong Financial Results for 2025
MADISON, Wisconsin, March 4 -- American Family Insurance issued the following news release:
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American Family Insurance reports strong financial results for 2025
Improved profitability is driven by lower catastrophe losses and disciplined, customer-focused strategies amid slowing industry growth.
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American Family Insurance reported strong financial results for 2025, marked by improved profitability, higher member equity and asset growth, and continued expense discipline. Results were supported by lower catastrophe losses and deliberate customer-driven strategic actions, while overall
... Show Full Article
MADISON, Wisconsin, March 4 -- American Family Insurance issued the following news release:
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American Family Insurance reports strong financial results for 2025
Improved profitability is driven by lower catastrophe losses and disciplined, customer-focused strategies amid slowing industry growth.
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American Family Insurance reported strong financial results for 2025, marked by improved profitability, higher member equity and asset growth, and continued expense discipline. Results were supported by lower catastrophe losses and deliberate customer-driven strategic actions, while overallindustry growth moderated.
The company's combined ratio improved substantially in 2025, reflecting fewer severe weather events as well as intentional decisions to strengthen long term financial stability. Continued focus on expense and portfolio management further reduced the expense ratio, reinforcing American Family's commitment to delivering value, protection and reliability for its policyholders.
"Insurance is ultimately a promise that we will be there when our customers need us most," said Bill Westrate, chair and CEO of American Family Insurance. "In 2025, we honored our commitments to our policyholders while also strengthening financial resilience, operating with greater efficiency, and investing in technology and enhanced experiences for our customers."
2025 results
Revenue declines slightly as strategic actions take effect
Total revenue decreased to $19.5 billion in 2025 from $20.0 billion in 2024, as direct written premium declined 5.6%. Revenue was impacted by strategic actions, including the 2024 sale of The General, the exit from personal lines at affiliate Main Street America Insurance, and targeted underwriting changes in commercial lines.
Policy retention and new business also declined in 2025, consistent with broader industry trends. American Family ended the year with 12.1 million policies in force, down 11% from 2024 or 3% excluding the effect of the aforementioned strategic actions.
Combined and expense ratios see significant improvement
American Family Insurance reported a combined ratio of 84.6% for all property and casualty lines, improving 12.4 points from 96.6% in 2024. Results benefited from fewer large catastrophe losses, which helped offset losses from January wildfires and early spring wind and hailstorms.
The expense ratio decreased to 31.9%, improving from 33.1% in 2024 and marking the company's lowest expense ratio since at least 1992. This is a direct reflection of the company's commitment to effective exposure and expense management to deliver even greater value for customers.
A net underwriting gain of $2.6 billion in property-casualty lines was reported in 2025, compared to a net underwriting gain of $603 million in 2024, driven primarily by reduced catastrophe and non-catastrophe losses year-over-year.
Quiet weather contributes to fewer claims in 2025
Following the three highest catastrophe loss years in company history, the number of severe weather events were notably lower. In 2025, $2.4 billion was paid in catastrophe claims, down from $3.3 billion in 2024. An additional $7.0 billion in non-catastrophe claims were paid, in service to our customers through the normal course of business, down from $8.2 billion in 2024, with the majority of that decrease attributed to the sale of The General operating company. In total, $9.4 billion was paid for all claims in 2025.
Life insurance policy growth and strong growth in members' equity are notable
Life insurance policies in force increased by 0.4% in 2025, while American Family Life Insurance Company reported a decrease in its gain from operations to $122 million, from $129 million in 2024. Higher investment income was offset by higher expenses, lower premium income and an increase in policyholder benefits.
Members' equity increased to $14.3 billion at the end of 2025, up from $10.6 billion in 2024, due primarily to underwriting results, investment income and capital gains. Group assets also rose to $45.5 billion from $42.2 billion in 2024.
"While industry growth slowed as profitability recovered, we are taking deliberate steps to achieve the right balance between profit and growth," said Troy Van Beek, chief financial officer and treasurer. "Our disciplined approach and long term strategies position us to respond to uncertainty while continuing to deliver industry leading service to our customers."
Commitment to strengthening communities continues
Through the American Family Insurance Dreams Foundation, employees and agency owners contributed $16 million to charity and volunteered more than 105,000 hours in 2025. The PGA TOUR Champions American Family Insurance Championship raised $2.035 million, bringing total event donations to nearly $22 million since 2016.
The company also announced a $10 million donation to the American Family Children's Hospital to support expansion of the sixth floor intensive care unit, reinforcing its commitment to community health and well being.
"Our strong financial position enables us to invest in innovation, expand our national presence, and support the communities we are proud to serve," Westrate said. "As we enter our 99th year in 2026, we are positioned to deliver exceptional value for our customers today and for generations to come."
For more, see the 2025 annual report on amfam.com.
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About American Family Insurance
American Family Insurance, a mutual holding company based in Madison, Wis., has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investments and creative partnerships. American Family Insurance is the nation's 12th-largest property/casualty insurance company, ranking No. 202 on the Fortune 500 list. American Family has a current 'a+' credit rating through AM Best, and has distinction as a "Standing the Test of Time" company, which is represented by having an AM Best financial strength rating of 'A' or better for at least 75 years. The company offers American Family-brand products through a network of exclusive agency owners as well as nationwide through key strategic partnerships. American Family Insurance also includes Homesite and Main Street America Insurance. The company has approximately 10,500 employees nationwide.
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Original text here: https://newsroom.amfam.com/american-family-insurance-reports-strong-financial-results-for-2025/
[Category: BizInsurance]
