Fintech PR
Hubble Therapeutics closes Series A Financing to develop gene therapy cure for LCA16

HANOVER, N.H., March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hubble Therapeutics LLC a patient-focused biotechnology company developing a gene therapy to cure pediatric blindness, announces the successful closing of a $7.3 million Series A funding round, which will advance its lead candidate, HUB-101, into human clinical trials.
Hubble Therapeutics’ gene therapy, HUB-101, targets two rare and devastating eye disorders: Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA16) and Snowflake Vitreoretinal Degeneration (SVD). This innovative treatment, developed by Dr. Bikash Pattnaik at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and licensed from the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF), aims to address the root cause of these conditions. LCA16 and SVD are severe, early-onset retinal dystrophies caused by mutations in the KCNJ13 gene, which is crucial for the function of a vital ion channel in the retina’s pigment epithelium cells. These disorders typically manifest in children before the age of five, leading to progressive retinal degeneration over the following two decades and ultimately resulting in blindness.
“For over the past 20 years, my lab has developed in vitro and in vivo models of ion channelopathy to develop curative gene therapies for several devastating pediatric blindness diseases,” Dr. Bikash Pattnaik, professor in the Departments of Pediatrics, Ophthalmology and Visual Science at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, Daniel M. Albert Chair McPherson Eye Research Institute and scientific co-founder of Hubble Therapeutics LLC, “The development of the HUB-101 gene therapy for LCA16 represents not just the scientific breakthrough, but hope for patients and families affected by such devastating conditions caused by defective ion channels. As we push these therapeutic boundaries, we empower a future where innovative ion channel therapies in our lab address genetic diseases at their core.”
To date, HUB-101 has received Rare Pediatric Disease Designation and Orphan Disease Designation from the FDA for this program. It has partnered with Andelyn Biosciences in Columbus, Ohio, and Virscio in New Haven, Connecticut, to develop, manufacture, and conduct IND-enabling studies. Hubble Therapeutics expects to enter the clinic to conduct Phase I / II trials in 2026 to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of HUB-101.
“This groundbreaking research aims to restore vision in patients affected by a rare eye disease that ultimately results in complete blindness, with WARF’s investment in Hubble Therapeutics as the Series A co-lead investor, we are thrilled to continue our support for the development of a disease-modifying treatment,” says Greg Keenan, Senior Director of WARF Ventures & Accelerator and Hubble Therapeutics Board of Director. “The collaboration between Hubble Therapeutics and the pioneering research of UW-Madison inventor, Dr. Bikash Pattnaik, exemplifies the transformative potential of academic-industry partnerships and we are honored to continue our support in advancing this critical research alongside the dedicated team at Hubble Therapeutics.”
“We are grateful for our investors, leading scientists, industry experts, best-in-class partners, patient families, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison who share our commitment to realizing the promise of improving vision for patients suffering from LCA16 and SVD,” said Jeff Sabados, Founder and President of Hubble Therapeutics LLC. Sabados continued, “with our new financing and the establishment of key partnerships, we hope to scale up HUB-101 manufacturing and conduct additional IND-enabling studies to enter the clinic within the next two years to realize our steadfast, unwavering promise to support families throughout the world impacted by this devastating genetic disease.”
About Hubble Therapeutics, LLC
Hubble Therapeutics LLC (“HubbleTx”) is a patient-focused biotechnology company developing research from Professor Bikash Pattnaik’s lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Our primary focus is on developing novel gene therapy for Leber Congenital Amaurosis Type 16 (LCA16) and Snowflake Vitreoretinal Degeneration (SVD), two debilitating retinal diseases that lead to severe vision loss in adult and pediatric patients. Our mission is to restore vision and improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families by harnessing the power of gene delivery technology to target the underlying genetic mutation responsible for the disease. Our team of leading scientists, industry experts, and best-in-class partners are committed to rigorous research and clinical development, ensuring that our therapies are safe, effective, and accessible. HubbleTx strives to bring hope to those affected by this condition through collaboration and innovation. Together, we aim to illuminate the path to a brighter future for patients battling LCA16 and SVD.
For Hubble media inquiries, please contact:
jsabados@hubbletx.com
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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hubble-therapeutics-closes-series-a-financing-to-develop-gene-therapy-cure-for-lca16-302409580.html
Fintech PR
OMRON and Cognizant Partner to Revolutionize Manufacturing with Unique One-Stop IT-OT Integration

- Balancing economic and social value for the future of manufacturing through advanced technologies.
- Promoting sustainable manufacturing by enhancing workforce efficiency, boosting productivity, and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Empowering people through data-driven decision making with manufacturing intelligence, AI & automation and digitalization.
STUTTGART, Germany, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OMRON Corporation (TSE:6645) and Cognizant (NASDAQ:CTSH) have signed a strategic partnership to integrate Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) in the manufacturing industry. The collaboration includes Cognizant being chosen as the engineering partner for OMRON’s Industrial Automation Business (IAB) products.
OMRON, known for its advanced automation technology, and Cognizant, with expertise in IT-OT convergence, will offer a unique, one-stop solution for digital transformation. The partnership combines OMRON’s OT products, such as sensors, controllers, servo motors, safety equipment and robots, with Cognizant’s IT capabilities, including cloud, AI, IoT, and digital twin technologies.
Through this collaboration, the companies provide a distinctive capability to achieve flexible and agile operational excellence. This includes consultancy, on-site implementation, operation, and maintenance. Target sectors for the joint capability include Automotive, Semiconductor, Electronics, Industrial Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Consumer Goods industries.
Combining the capabilities of both companies, OMRON and Cognizant strive to establish a unique business model that addresses on-site and management issues through continuous IT-OT analysis and improvements. This IT-OT integration will leverage both companies’ strengths to help promote sustainable manufacturing, enhancing productivity, improving workforce efficiency and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
OMRON’s broad product lineup (more than 200,000 SKUs) gathers high-quality field data for Cognizant’s Asset Performance Excellence (APEx) platform and its Industry 4.0/5.0 maturity assessment tool OnePlant™. This data, combined with management information, helps analyze IT-side issues and prioritize improvements from a management perspective. Results can be fed back via OMRON’s control application and the i-BELT data utilization service, working with customers to address on-site challenges linked to management issues in a comprehensive manner.
“OMRON is the only manufacturer of control equipment in the world that owns all the equipment used in the production line. Cognizant, on the other hand, is one of the world’s leading global IT services companies supporting the digital transformation of a wide range of industries with advanced digital technologies such as AI, IoT, and cloud,” said Junta Tsujinaga, CEO of OMRON Corporation. “Through this partnership, we will promote the integration of IT and OT to solve urgent issues faced by manufacturing sites, such as significantly improving productivity, reducing operational losses, and speeding up management decisions. The two companies will work together to promote sustainable cutting-edge manufacturing of the future.”
“Clients are looking for a Strategic Partner with deep industry and domain expertise, end to end capabilities and the ability to manage complex technologies at various layers of digital factory,” said Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant. “We are excited to partner with OMRON in taking integrated value propositions and capabilities to transform manufacturing for our clients globally. OMRON’s expertise in OT data and systems, combined with Cognizant’s digital manufacturing and IT/OT integration capabilities, will enable manufacturers to make quicker, more reliable decisions using real-time data. Together, we are committed to advancing manufacturing by leveraging emerging technologies and integrating IT and OT systems to realize a state of manufacturing in the future that is connected, intelligent, autonomous, sustainable, and resilient,” he added.
About OMRON Corporation
OMRON Corporation, as a leading automation company with its unique “Sensing & Control + Think” technology at its core, is engaged in control equipment, healthcare, social systems, and electronic components. The company is also developing a data solution business that utilizes a wide variety of data acquired through these businesses. Founded in 1933, OMRON now employs approximately 28,000 people worldwide and provides products and services in more than 130 countries, contributing to the creation of a better society. For more information, https://www.omron.com/jp/ja/ please visit: OMRON Global
About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq-100: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we’re improving everyday life.
See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.
For media inquiries, please contact:
OMRON: Global Corporate Communications and Engagement – Ankur Bhat, ankur.bhat@omron.com ; +81-75-344-7175
Cognizant: GlobalPR@cognizant.com

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/omron-and-cognizant-partner-to-revolutionize-manufacturing-with-unique-one-stop-it-ot-integration-302423455.html
Fintech PR
Bybit, BGA and EthicHub Empower Coffee Farmers With Blockchain-Backed Microloans

DUBAI, UAE, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is spotlighting the power of blockchain for real-world impact with its upcoming livestream, “Bybit x EthicHub x BGA: Invest for impact, earn with DeFi,” in collaboration with EthicHub and Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA), a collaborative grants initiative to accelerate blockchain projects solving real-world problems.
The livestream airs on April 11 at 1PM UTC, and will unpack how blockchain technology is helping coffee farmers in developing regions access fair financing, build global partnerships, and participate in ethical trade.
EthicHub’s innovative model connects unbanked farmers to global lenders through blockchain-backed loans that are community-audited. Bybit recently pledged $1 million in liquidity to the platform, reinforcing its commitment to real-world impact through Web3.
Key Takeaways from the Livestream:
- How blockchain can close the financial gap for smallholder farmers.
- Why decentralized lending models matter in global agriculture.
- Insights from the full lending ecosystem — including auditors, buyers, and tech enablers.
- A $2,000 prize pool giveaway and live community poll on the role of DeFi in farming.
Featured Speakers:
- Gabriela Chang, Co-Founder & CSO, EthicHub — shares the platform’s mission and success stories.
- Jorge Barrigh, Regional Director, Impact Capital Americas (Heifer International) — discusses how Heifer audits and supports lending partners.
- David Llorens, Head Roaster & Buyer, Animal Coffee and Jaleo — offers a roaster’s view on ethical sourcing and direct trade.
- Glenn, Lead, Blockchain for Good Alliance — highlights how BGA supports impact-driven Web3 projects.
- Moderator: Shadie Berro, Social Media Lead, Bybit.
In a fast-moving Web3 space, this session brings a refreshing focus on real-world utility, social impact, and sustainability. The discussion promises practical examples, candid perspectives, and a deeper understanding of how blockchain can serve communities—not just markets. Viewers can join the discussion in the live chat, and vote in a poll on who benefits more from DeFi lending: farmers or investors.
This initiative is part of Bybit’s broader Blockchain for Good strategy, which incubates and scales projects leveraging Web3 for positive change.
The livestream offers meaningful perspectives for those interested in sustainability, ethical finance, and the global coffee supply chain. Full event details and viewing access are available on the official event page.
#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #BGA
About Bybit
Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.
For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube
About Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA)
The Blockchain for Good Alliance (BGA) is a long term collaborative non-profit initiative with key partners with the main aim to contribute to societal good by using blockchain technology to solve real world problems. By convening leaders, innovators, and organisations from across the blockchain community, BGA seeks to drive innovation, collaboration, and action towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
For more information
Email: hello@blockchainforgood.xyz
Website: www.blockchainforgood.xyz
Twitter: www.twitter.com/chainforgood

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybit-bga-and-ethichub-empower-coffee-farmers-with-blockchain-backed-microloans-302423446.html
Fintech PR
Sopra Steria Unveils Financial Well-Being as a Key Differentiator in Banking

- Sopra Steria unveils the latest edition of the Digital Banking Experience Report (DBX)
- The report highlights financial well-being as a business imperative for the banking industry
- With deep expertise in payments, AI, cybersecurity, and Open Finance, Sopra Steria affirms itself as a trusted partner for banks and insurers
PARIS, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sopra Steria, a major player in the European tech sector, has released the 2025 issue of the Digital Banking Experience Report (DBX), which sheds light on how financial well-being is emerging as a key differentiator in the banking industry. Amid economic uncertainty, banks are stepping up to provide customers with digital tools and services that enhance financial security, improve trust, and foster long-term engagement.
The report explores five critical areas shaping the financial sector: payments, cryptocurrencies, generative AI, data protection & privacy, and sustainability. It highlights that while digital transformation continues to accelerate, only 7% of banks report being challenge-free in their digital initiatives, with legacy systems, cyber threats, and regulatory complexities remaining hurdles to overcome.
The 6 Key Findings from the DBX 2025 Report
Financial well-being is a competitive advantage – More than half (52%) of banks are increasing their offering of digital tools and services aimed at helping customers better manage their finances. More mature banks place greater emphasis on financial well-being, integrating technology-driven solutions to enhance customer engagement.
Payments innovations are shaping consumer habits – Digital payments are growing across Europe, with 87% adoption in Germany and Italy. Banks are prioritizing investments in areas like modernising payment infrastructure using cloud-native solutions (66% already have, 32% are planning to do so) and expanding offerings like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and digital wallets. However, fraud and cybersecurity risks remain a concern, prompting a 10%+ budget increase for risk mitigation.
GenAI will reshape banking experiences
AI is becoming a core component of banking, with 47% of consumers using generative AI tools weekly. Meanwhile, banks are focusing on GenAI, but cautious. They believe the technology can have a big impact on areas like risk management, know-your-customer and anti-money laundering capabilities, delivering personalised experiences at scale, and fraud management. As a result, 61% expect to increase investment in emerging technologies by 10% or more. However, meaningful concerns exist, including how to avoid bias, ensure compliance and security, and minimise data breach and fraud risks.
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CONTACT: Aurélien Flaugnatti, aurelien.flaugnatti@soprasteria.com
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sopra-steria-unveils-financial-well-being-as-a-key-differentiator-in-banking-302423427.html
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