Latest news with #ChrisChang
Business Insider
16-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
9M AI Signals Global Readiness with Flagship Launch in Hong Kong
A New York-based startup expands across Europe, Africa, and Asia. Education, Execution, and Real-World in Action. While many AI startups are still chasing product-market fit, 9M AI is shifting into high gear with infrastructure built, systems deployed, and a truly global presence ignited. On June 27, 2025, at its official global debut in Hong Kong, themed 'Global Kick-Off 2025: Igniting the Future,' 9M AI welcomed over 500 attendees from more than a dozen countries, not for another speculative tech reveal, but for the live unveiling of an AI ecosystem that's already running across three continents. Instead of opening with a product demo, 9M AI flipped the script. Launching the 9M AI Academy, a worldwide training initiative designed to shape the next generation of AI-native thinkers, engineers, and ecosystem leaders. Led by Academy Dean Joanne Teo, the Academy unveiled a rigorous, modular curriculum focused on intelligent finance, decentralized infrastructure, and real-world algorithmic systems. With faculty hubs already active in Vietnam, South Korea, India, and Germany, the Academy aims to certify over 2,000 professionals by mid-2026. 'AI is not a software, it's a way of thinking,' Teo declared. 'To build trusted systems, we need educated operators. That's why we built the Academy first.' The program, called AI Capital Intelligence, features multilingual tracks on AI architecture, macroeconomic frameworks, incentive design, and decentralized governance, a true foundation for global AI fluency. From WeWork to World Stage: CEO Chris Chang Tells the 9M Story Next, CEO Chris Chang took the stage with a powerful keynote chronicling 9M AI's journey from its modest beginnings in a Manhattan WeWork to its current multi-region footprint. With past leadership of a LED lighting manufacturing firm that went from U.S. government contracts to a Nasdaq IPO, Chang underscored the company's culture of discipline, decentralization, and relentless execution. 'We didn't raise capital to experiment,' Chang said. 'We built teams to operate. We built systems to scale.' He shared 9M's explosive growth: active expansion into Europe (Germany, France, UK), Africa (Nigeria, South Africa), Asia (South Korea), and upcoming deployments in Dubai and Brazil. NovaMind Demo Stuns Audience: Real AI in Action One of the most electrifying moments came from Kevin Sheahan, 9M's Lead Architect, who delivered a live demonstration of NovaMind, the company's proprietary multi-modal AI engine. Broadcast live from 9M's New York command center, NovaMind showcased its ability to: Interpret real-time cross-market signals Execute automated trading strategies Reconfigure decisions based on evolving data streams All powered by its intelligent core modules, AlphaMind, MetaQuant, Sentient Signal, and LucidOps, running in seamless harmony. 'This isn't just theory anymore,' said one analyst from Frankfurt. 'This is applied autonomy under real-world constraints, and it's working.' Korea Expansion: Smart Contracts and Global Build-Out. To recap the event, 9M AI announced its next Global Summit in South Korea on August 8, where smart contract-based fund governance tools will be introduced and implemented. This will officially kick off its East Asia infrastructure build-out. With its AI stack already processing millions of signals daily, 9M AI is emerging as a new kind of force: an AI platform that Educates, Executes, and Expands, all at once. 'We're not just building a protocol,' Chang concluded. 'We're building an organization where intelligence flows globally, not hierarchically.' The future isn't coming, it has just launched, and it's wearing the badge of 9M AI. About 9M AI 9M AI is a New York-based fintech company founded by former Goldman Sachs executives, Columbia University AI scientists, and leading quant engineers. Its platform combines large-scale AI models, full-stack quant engines, and blockchain infrastructure to deliver autonomous investment, trade execution, and risk management across both equity and crypto markets. Known as a 'Wall Street-grade AI financial assistant,' 9M AI empowers everyday investors with institutional-level intelligence, unlocking smarter, more inclusive wealth creation through technology. Contact Jessica Liu 9M AI
Winnipeg Free Press
18-06-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
‘Our goal was to create kind of a new niche'
There are 32 food options at Tavern on King Edward — more if you count the items on the dog menu. The new restaurant, located at 1760 Sargent Ave., is advertising its focaccia pizzas, prawn sushi hand rolls and chicken tenders. But customers who bring their four-legged friends to the dog-friendly patio will be able to order their pet a fresh-made rice-and-vegetable dish. (Add chicken breast, burger patty or steak for an additional fee.) 'Other places have dog patios,' Chris Chang said. 'We just thought we would take it to the next level.' Chang is vice-president of operations at the Tavern Collective, a new dining brand owned and operated by Vancouver-based Northland Properties Corp. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Chris Chang is vice-president of operations at the Tavern Collective, a new dining brand opening a restaurant at 1760 Sargent Ave. Tavern on King Edward will celebrate its grand opening, Wednesday. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Chris Chang is vice-president of operations at the Tavern Collective, a new dining brand opening a restaurant at 1760 Sargent Ave. Tavern on King Edward will celebrate its grand opening, Wednesday. Tavern on King Edward — which celebrates its grand opening Wednesday — is the chain's second restaurant, after a Calgary location that opened in December. It's situated at the corner of King Edward Street and Sargent Avenue, next to the Sandman Signature hotel. Northland Properties is the parent company of multiple hotel chains and restaurants, including Denny's and Shark Club. Chang said the company chose Winnipeg as the home for the second Tavern restaurant because of the 'strong sense of community' in the city. (The restaurant is not affiliated with the Tavern United chain, he added.) 'It felt like a very diverse cultural scene (in Winnipeg),' Chang said. 'We learned that it had a pretty amazing food scene because we already have some brands here.' 'Other places have dog patios … We just thought we would take it to the next level.'–Chris Chang The 6,300-square-foot space includes seating for 150 guests, with an additional 24 seats on the patio. It's an open, inviting space adorned with plants inside the entrance and at the bar, and a steampunk-inspired aesthetic throughout. There are also plenty of portraits of JD, the French bulldog that serves as the Tavern Collective's mascot. There are three arcade games in a small room at the back and Chang said guests can expect to hear a mix of music from the 1980s, '90s and the early aughts — with corresponding music videos on display on the TVs. (Sports will be broadcast whenever local teams are playing.) 'Our goal was to create kind of a new niche, where you walk in and you feel the comfortability of your neighbourhood pub, social house or bar, but you get the elevated service and offering — what we call premium casual, but without premium casual prices,' Chang said. '(It's) affordable without sacrificing experience and execution.' In addition to the children's menu and weekend brunch options, there's an extensive drinks list that includes a variety of mocktails. The restaurant will feature a daily happy hour and late-night menu from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close, including 20 per cent off select food items and $2-$3 off signature drinks. Chang believes the standard of hospitality people expect from the restaurant industry has fallen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic — and Tavern on King Edward aims to rectify that. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Tavern on King Edward's 6,300-square-foot space includes seating for 150 guests, with an additional 24 seats on the patio. MIKE DEAL / FREE PRESS Tavern on King Edward's 6,300-square-foot space includes seating for 150 guests, with an additional 24 seats on the patio. 'One of the big things we wanted to do was bring back true hospitality,' he said. 'When guests come in here, they'll see we truly understand without them there is no us.' One unique offering from the restaurant is a biscuit for dogs made by Winnipeg's Planet Pup Doggy Bakery. A dollar from each biscuit sold will be donated to local animal charities, Chang said. Bakery owner Deb Kurdydyk said Tavern Collective approached her 'out of the blue' to create the treats and she was happy to oblige. 'I've done different corporate work but never for restaurants,' Kurdydyk said. 'This is a first.' Monday Mornings The latest local business news and a lookahead to the coming week. Tavern on King Edward hosted a soft opening on Monday and Tuesday for friends and family of the restaurant's 60 employees. Chang said he was extremely pleased with how it went and is looking forward to hosting more guests. 'We're super excited to actually be here in Winnipeg and get the doors open and welcome everyone,' he said. 'When people come in here they can expect for their expectations to be exceeded.' Tavern on King Edward will be open seven days a week: 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday; and 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Per a news release, the Tavern Collective has future expansion plans underway with 'eyes set on Ontario and other major Canadian cities.' Aaron EppReporter Aaron Epp reports on business for the Free Press. After freelancing for the paper for a decade, he joined the staff full-time in 2024. He was previously the associate editor at Canadian Mennonite. Read more about Aaron. Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider becoming a subscriber. Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support.
Globe and Mail
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Your local pub, but better – there's a new Tavern in town
WINNIPEG, Manitoba, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Tavern Collective is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location, Tavern on King Edward, at the end of this month. Its official debut in Winnipeg, this is the second location for the brand-new Canadian-owned and operated dining brand. Building on the momentum of its successful 2024 debut, Tavern on King Edward is a fusion of new and timeless in a light, open space in the heart of the Manitoba city. Complete with its signature steampunk-inspired interior, it merges the best of a classic pub with elevated design, nostalgic music, and entertainment. Fitted with retro arcade games, a community-friendly vibe, along with countless screens for cheering on hometown heroes, Tavern on King Edward is poised to become the new neighbourhood hub. ' We're looking forward to opening our doors and welcoming both the local community and visitors alike to Winnipeg's newest social destination,' says Chris Chang, Vice President, Operations at The Tavern Collective. ' From watching the puck drop for the season opener to reconnecting with old friends over great food and drinks, the Tavern on King Edward is set to become the go-to gathering place, where timeless tradition meets the uncommon good.' Easily recognizable by its lovable, friendly Frenchie mascot JD, guests will be treated to a delicious, globally inspired menu of 29 items that offer unique dishes, bursting with craveable twists. Amongst the delectable options will be the signature Tavern Focaccia Pizzas, which combine surprising flavours that will have your mouth watering for more; their Chicken Vermicelli Bowl with ginger and garlic chicken, rice noodles, spring rolls, fresh vegetables, nuoc cham sauce, and cashew dressing; Prawn Sushi Hand Rolls created with tempura prawns, sushi rice, cucumber, pickled ginger and spicy mayo; and their infamous WOW Chicken Tenders, served with honey dill dip - a nod to local Winnipeg flavour, have these tenders competing with the best. Complimenting its food selection, The Tavern Collective offers carefully crafted signature cocktails, worldly wines, and featured draft beers will also be available to enjoy in a comfortable atmosphere, driven by great service. Highlights include the Puppy Tears, made with 400 Conejos Mezcal, grapefruit, Jarritos soda; the Brooklyn Barbara, an old-fashioned with Bulleit bourbon, demerara cordial, Angostura bitters, orange; and finally, the Puppy Love Martini, featuring Absolut Raspberri, Peach Schnapps, and pineapple juice. ' The Tavern on King Edward menu is anything but typical,' says Tyson Phillips, Regional Chef, The Tavern Collective. ' We've taken classic pub fare and reimagined it with bold, modern flavours to serve every craving. From fresh, quality ingredients to thoughtful execution, we're committed to delivering comfort, crave-worthy flavour, and invite guests to experience what sets The Tavern Collective apart.' Located at 1760 Sargent Avenue, the 6,300 square-foot space features seating for 150 guests. It will be open seven days a week, featuring a daily happy hour and late-night menu from 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm and 9.00 pm to close, including 20 per cent off select food items and $2-$3 off signature Tavern drinks. The location will be offering weekend brunch, and boasts a 24-seat, dog-friendly patio offering dishes for the four-legged friends, including a dog biscuit that gives back $1 to local shelters. With future expansion plans already underway, including eyes set on Ontario and other major Canadian cities, The Tavern Collective remains focused on bringing the elevated and uncommon tavern experience to new communities across the country. But first, the ever-expanding team is looking forward to welcoming guests to experience their exciting new Winnipeg destination, starting in a couple of weeks. If you're searching for a place to work where your growth, skill development, and career are front of mind? Then you're in luck! Tavern on King Edward is looking to hire bright, enthusiastic, outgoing individuals with a love for providing great, memorable hospitality. For full information on hiring, the new location, and full opening hours details, please visit The Tavern Collective website or visit them on social @thetaverncollective. About The Tavern Collective We spark the moments that real relationships are built on. Proudly Canadian-owned, The Tavern Collective combines nostalgia, steampunk vibes, and an atmosphere where every day feels like an adventure. A modern take on the public house mixed with a global flare, we're all about bringing people together to create memories that last. At The Tavern Collective, we don't just serve food and drinks; we craft experiences worth sharing. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Your local pub, but better – there's a new Tavern in town
Embrace the unexpected and unleash the good times in Winnipeg with the newest Neighbourhood hangout WINNIPEG, Manitoba, May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Tavern Collective is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location, Tavern on King Edward, at the end of this month. Its official debut in Winnipeg, this is the second location for the brand-new Canadian-owned and operated dining on the momentum of its successful 2024 debut, Tavern on King Edward is a fusion of new and timeless in a light, open space in the heart of the Manitoba city. Complete with its signature steampunk-inspired interior, it merges the best of a classic pub with elevated design, nostalgic music, and entertainment. Fitted with retro arcade games, a community-friendly vibe, along with countless screens for cheering on hometown heroes, Tavern on King Edward is poised to become the new neighbourhood hub.'We're looking forward to opening our doors and welcoming both the local community and visitors alike to Winnipeg's newest social destination,' says Chris Chang, Vice President, Operations at The Tavern Collective. 'From watching the puck drop for the season opener to reconnecting with old friends over great food and drinks, the Tavern on King Edward is set to become the go-to gathering place, where timeless tradition meets the uncommon good.' Easily recognizable by its lovable, friendly Frenchie mascot JD, guests will be treated to a delicious, globally inspired menu of 29 items that offer unique dishes, bursting with craveable twists. Amongst the delectable options will be the signature Tavern Focaccia Pizzas, which combine surprising flavours that will have your mouth watering for more; their Chicken Vermicelli Bowl with ginger and garlic chicken, rice noodles, spring rolls, fresh vegetables, nuoc cham sauce, and cashew dressing; Prawn Sushi Hand Rolls created with tempura prawns, sushi rice, cucumber, pickled ginger and spicy mayo; and their infamous WOW Chicken Tenders, served with honey dill dip - a nod to local Winnipeg flavour, have these tenders competing with the best. Complimenting its food selection, The Tavern Collective offers carefully crafted signature cocktails, worldly wines, and featured draft beers will also be available to enjoy in a comfortable atmosphere, driven by great service. Highlights include the Puppy Tears, made with 400 Conejos Mezcal, grapefruit, Jarritos soda; the Brooklyn Barbara, an old-fashioned with Bulleit bourbon, demerara cordial, Angostura bitters, orange; and finally, the Puppy Love Martini, featuring Absolut Raspberri, Peach Schnapps, and pineapple juice.'The Tavern on King Edward menu is anything but typical,' says Tyson Phillips, Regional Chef, The Tavern Collective. 'We've taken classic pub fare and reimagined it with bold, modern flavours to serve every craving. From fresh, quality ingredients to thoughtful execution, we're committed to delivering comfort, crave-worthy flavour, and invite guests to experience what sets The Tavern Collective apart.'Located at 1760 Sargent Avenue, the 6,300 square-foot space features seating for 150 guests. It will be open seven days a week, featuring a daily happy hour and late-night menu from 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm and 9.00 pm to close, including 20 per cent off select food items and $2-$3 off signature Tavern drinks. The location will be offering weekend brunch, and boasts a 24-seat, dog-friendly patio offering dishes for the four-legged friends, including a dog biscuit that gives back $1 to local shelters. With future expansion plans already underway, including eyes set on Ontario and other major Canadian cities, The Tavern Collective remains focused on bringing the elevated and uncommon tavern experience to new communities across the country. But first, the ever-expanding team is looking forward to welcoming guests to experience their exciting new Winnipeg destination, starting in a couple of weeks. If you're searching for a place to work where your growth, skill development, and career are front of mind? Then you're in luck! Tavern on King Edward is looking to hire bright, enthusiastic, outgoing individuals with a love for providing great, memorable hospitality. For full information on hiring, the new location, and full opening hours details, please visit The Tavern Collective website or visit them on social @thetaverncollective. About The Tavern CollectiveWe spark the moments that real relationships are built Canadian-owned, The Tavern Collective combines nostalgia, steampunk vibes, and an atmosphere where every day feels like an adventure. A modern take on the public house mixed with a global flare, we're all about bringing people together to create memories that last. At The Tavern Collective, we don't just serve food and drinks; we craft experiences worth sharing. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: CONTACT: Media Contact Bláithín Noone Manager, Public Relations & Communications, Northland Properties +1 (604) 730-6610 bnoone@
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Darden and Uber launch on-demand delivery pilot at Cheddar's
US-based Darden Restaurants, in collaboration with Uber Technologies, has initiated an on-demand delivery pilot at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen. The trial is currently operational in ten restaurants, offering customers the convenience of ordering directly from Cheddar's website and app, while Uber Direct manages delivery logistics through its national network. Cheddar's then intends to expand the service across its brand network. Darden chief information officer Chris Chang stated: "We have developed a strong partnership with the Uber Direct team. We learned a lot from the initial pilot at Olive Garden, and that, combined with the success of the full rollout, gave us confidence to quickly move to piloting delivery at Cheddar's." Uber Eats head of Americas and delivery vice-president Sarfraz Maredia added: "The needs of restaurants are evolving more quickly than ever, and we're focused on providing world-class solutions to meet those needs. "We've heard excellent feedback from Olive Garden operators on the benefits and ease of integrating Uber Direct into their operations, and are confident our teams can deliver the same benefits for Cheddar's operators, their team members and guests." Darden reported a 6.2% increase in total sales to $3.2bn for the fiscal third quarter (Q3) ended 23 February 2025, driven by a 0.7% rise in same-restaurant sales and contributions from acquiring 103 Chuy's locations and 40 net new restaurants. Net income rose to $323.4m from $312.9m a year previously. Darden's board of directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.40 per share, payable on 1 May 2025. The company's operating costs and expenses for the fiscal third quarter stood at $2,73bn, an increase from $2,58bn in the same period last year. Darden has also revised its fiscal 2025 financial outlook, factoring in Chuy's operating results while excluding $47m in pre-tax transaction and integration costs from the acquisition. Key estimates include total sales of $12.1bn, same-restaurant sales growth of 1.5%, and between 50 and 55 new restaurant openings. Capital expenditures are projected at $650m, with overall inflation expected to be 2.5%. "Darden and Uber launch on-demand delivery pilot at Cheddar's" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
