New York, NY, 16th September 2025, ZEX PR WIRE– In a business climate defined by fast-moving deals and heightened competition, seasoned executive and advisor Frank Okunak is calling on founders, private equity leaders, and corporate boards to return to the fundamentals of due diligence before closing acquisitions.

Okunak, who has advised both multinational corporations and growth-stage firms through acquisitions and integrations, warns that too many deals are driven by momentum and vision while overlooking the critical discipline of rigorous review. “Acquisitions should not be a gamble,” Okunak says. “A well-thought-out due diligence process isn’t bureaucracy—it’s the bedrock of a successful transaction.”

Why Due Diligence Matters More Than Ever

With global M&A activity rebounding in 2025 after a slowdown in previous years, pressure to close deals quickly has intensified. Yet, according to Okunak, the risks of moving too fast are higher than ever.

“Deals collapse not because the target lacked potential, but because the fundamentals weren’t scrutinized,” Okunak explains. “The acquisition process must extend beyond excitement over synergies. It must answer the hard questions: What are we really buying? Can we sustain it? Will this company strengthen or weaken us in five years?”

A Framework for Review: Five Core Pillars

Okunak highlights five essential components of the due diligence process:

1. Client List

Revenue projections are only as strong as the relationships behind them. A careful review of the client list should assess client concentration, renewal likelihood, and overall satisfaction.

“Too often, buyers assume revenue will continue without interruption,” Okunak notes. “But if 40% of revenue depends on one or two clients, that’s a fragility you cannot afford to ignore. Strong acquisitions are built on diversified, loyal customer bases.”

2. Financial Statements

Financial diligence goes beyond reviewing top-line growth. It requires forensic analysis of margins, recurring revenue, and liabilities.

Okunak urges acquirers to dig deep into audited statements, balance sheets, and cash flow patterns. “Numbers tell a story,” he says. “Healthy EBITDA margins are important, but so is understanding whether they are sustainable or inflated by one-off events. A disciplined buyer stress-tests assumptions to ensure the financials hold under different scenarios.”

3. Talent Pool

In today’s knowledge economy, people are often the most valuable asset being acquired. Okunak stresses that culture fit, retention risk, and leadership bench strength should be central to diligence.

“Investors may focus on technology or contracts, but talent makes or breaks integration,” Okunak argues. “If the senior team leaves post-acquisition, you may be left with a shell of the company you thought you bought. A robust talent assessment must be part of every deal.”

4. Assets and Liabilities

A disciplined buyer evaluates not just what is owned, but what is owed. From intellectual property and real estate to contingent liabilities and litigation exposure, Okunak emphasizes that this review shapes both valuation and risk profile.

“Assets are only valuable if they are truly defensible,” he cautions. “And liabilities can sink even the most promising acquisition. Overlooking this step is like buying a house without checking the foundation.”

5. Succession Planning

Okunak believes succession is often the most overlooked dimension of diligence. If the current leadership is central to client relationships and operations, the buyer must ensure a credible succession plan.

“Leadership transitions can destabilize revenue, culture, and client trust,” he explains. “Smart buyers plan for continuity long before the ink dries. You can’t afford leadership gaps in the first year of ownership.”

The Cost of Neglect

Okunak points to high-profile acquisitions that have unraveled due to inadequate diligence: inflated valuations, cultural mismatches, or sudden client departures. “Behind every failed deal is a missing discipline,” he observes. “Skipping diligence is not a shortcut—it’s a setup for long-term loss.”

For smaller firms and private equity-backed rollups, the stakes are even higher. Without the safety net of large balance sheets, one bad acquisition can jeopardize years of growth. “Founders must resist the pressure to close fast,” Okunak advises. “Disciplined diligence may delay the celebration, but it dramatically increases the odds of success.”

Beyond the Checklist: Discipline as Culture

While checklists matter, Okunak emphasizes that diligence is also a mindset. “It’s about building a culture of accountability,” he says. “Every acquisition should be tested through the lens of sustainability. Will this deal stand up to the pressure of integration, client expectations, and market shifts?”

Okunak believes that discipline should extend beyond closing. “Post-acquisition integration should be planned during diligence, not after the deal is done. That includes aligning talent incentives, client communication, and systems integration. Execution is where most deals stumble, and diligence is the only way to prevent it.”

A Message for CEOs and Boards

For Okunak, the responsibility lies squarely with CEOs and boards. “You cannot delegate away responsibility for diligence,” he insists. “Leaders set the tone. They must demand thorough reviews of client concentration, financial sustainability, talent retention, and succession readiness. Anything less is negligence.”

 He acknowledges that deal-making often carries the excitement of vision and growth, but insists that only discipline turns acquisitions into long-term wins. “Great deals aren’t about speed,” Okunak concludes. “They’re about clarity. When the fundamentals are respected, acquisitions don’t just expand — they endure.”

About Frank Okunak

Frank Okunak is a seasoned executive, advisor, and former CFO and COO of Weber Shandwick, one of the world’s leading PR and digital firms. With decades of experience in corporate strategy, finance, and M&A advisory, Okunak has guided startups, agencies, and private equity firms through growth and integration. His counsel emphasizes discipline, financial rigor, and long-term sustainability as the cornerstones of business success.

Miami, USA, 17th September 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Over the past six months, XRP has seen a cumulative increase of over 68%. This growth isn’t attributed to a single factor but rather a combination of key elements: the re-entry of institutional capital, the integration of major payment platforms, and a surge in on-chain cross-border payment transactions. XRP is now poised to become one of the most undervalued assets in the second half of 2025.

As the crypto market gradually emerged from its volatile period earlier in the year, the spotlight was almost entirely on Bitcoin’s breakthrough of $100,000 and Ethereum’s expansion into the tokenization of real-world assets. Many investors had written off XRP as a “fallen coin,” yet secretly kept an eye on its charts, reluctant to completely let go. Back then, XRP was like a misunderstood old friend—you knew it had value, but convincing yourself of that was becoming increasingly difficult. By mid-2025, however, everything began to change. Behind the rise of these major cryptocurrencies, XRP was quietly gaining momentum—not through hype, but through real-world applications. HashJ wisely introduced a new member bonus: Sign up and receive $100 in free mining power plus an $18 cash bonus.

XRP’s Comeback: Reality Surpasses Predictions

As the second quarter of 2025 unfolded, XRP defied expectations, achieving significant milestones. Ripple’s partnerships with several international payment clearing platforms have solidified XRP’s position as an essential infrastructure for global cross-border payments.

At the end of May, a major European bank confirmed in a public report that it was experimenting with the XRP Ledger for fund transfers.

In early June, Stripe launched a cross-border pilot program, with XRP emerging as the preferred channel.

The price responded accordingly: rising from $0.58 to over $0.95, marking an increase of over 60% in just a few weeks. But perhaps even more notable is the surge in on-chain activity, with the number of new wallets doubling—this isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s proof that users are genuinely engaging with the platform.

HashJ: Making Complex XRP Investing Simple and Fun

While many people still struggle with setting up an XRP node and managing cross-chain interactions, cloud mining platforms like HashJ have made it easier to get involved in crypto:

All you need is a phone and an internet connection to start cloud-based XRP mining.

AI intelligently schedules computing power, automatically participating in the most optimal strategy pool.

Profits are settled every 24 hours, and USDT/XRP can be withdrawn at any time.

New users receive a $100 trial bonus and an $18 bonus upon registration, allowing them to get started at no cost.

More importantly, HashJ has passed regulatory audits in multiple regions, ensuring transparent platform operations, clear returns, and manageable risks. This means that “everyone can earn institutional-level returns” is no longer just a slogan.

Future Outlook: XRP Still Has Room for Growth, and Ordinary People Still Have Opportunities

On-chain data shows that XRP’s real-world applications are deepening. Several countries, including India, Japan, and Nigeria, are piloting cross-border settlement systems based on XRP. If these initiatives move forward in the next six months, XRP’s potential for growth remains significant.

More importantly, ordinary people are no longer just “spectators” in the crypto market; they are now actively participating and benefiting.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

Illinois, US, 16th September 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, In an era where speed, efficiency, and bottom lines often dominate conversations about business, Kaeita Rankin is leading a different kind of change in project management. With over a decade of experience guiding initiatives across technology, operations, and business development, Rankin has emerged as a respected leader known for her commitment to human-centered leadership. For her, successful projects are not definedsolely by deadlines and deliverables, but by the strength of the teams who bring them to life. Rankin’s career began in operations, where she quickly noticed that systems and processes could only carry organizations so far without the engagement of the people behind them. That realization shaped her path into project management, where she discovered the unique space to combine strategy with empathy. Over the years, she has become recognized for her ability to unite diverse groups, foster collaboration, and guide projects to successful completion without losing sight of the individuals involved.

A Leadership Philosophy Rooted in People

At the core of Rankin’s approach is a belief that people drive outcomes. She explains, “A project plan is just paper without the trust, commitment, and creativity of a team. My role as a project manager isn’t just about charts or deadlines—it’s about creating the right conditions
for people to thrive.” This philosophy has shaped every stage of her career. From cross-functional teams in technology to high-stakes business development initiatives, Rankin has consistently emphasized open communication, respect, and mentorship as cornerstones of success. Her leadership style reflects not only a deep understanding of strategy but also an appreciation for the individuals who execute it.

Mentorship as a Catalyst for Growth

One hallmark of Rankin’s leadership is her dedication to mentorship. Many of her colleagues, particularly those at earlier stages in their careers, credit her with fostering their growth and instilling a sense of confidence. She views mentorship not as an added
responsibility but as an integral part of leadership. “Project management isn’t just about moving tasks forward,” she notes. “It’s about moving people forward, too. When you invest in others, the benefits multiply across the entire organization.”

Her investment in mentoring has created ripple effects—empowered professionals who go on to become leaders in their own right. This dedication has positioned Rankin as not just a project manager, but a culture-builder within her organizations.

Navigating Change With Agility

In today’s fast-paced business environment, adaptability is critical. Rankin holds certifications in Agile and Lean methodologies, equipping her with tools to lead teams through shifting priorities and unexpected challenges. However, she views these frameworks
not as rigid systems but as flexible guides that support creativity and problem-solving. Throughout her career, she has successfully steered projects through transitions, whether managing evolving client demands, integrating new technologies, or responding to market
pressures. Her calm, structured, yet empathetic approach ensures that teams feel supported even in moments of uncertainty. “Change is inevitable,” Rankin says. “The question is how we, as leaders, prepare our teams to navigate it. Agility isn’t about rushing; it’s about responding with clarity, focus, and trust.”

Resilience Through Setbacks

Rankin is also candid about the lessons she has learned from challenges. Early in her career, she experienced a stalled project caused by communication breakdowns among stakeholders. Rather than viewing the experience as a failure, she embraced it as an opportunity for growth. By reestablishing dialogue, clarifying expectations, and rebuilding trust, she not only salvaged the initiative but also gained valuable insights that continue to shape her leadership today. She often shares this story with junior colleagues to emphasize the importance of resilience and accountability. “Setbacks are part of the journey,” she reflects. “What matters is how we respond. Each challenge gives us a chance to learn, grow, and lead differently.”

Beyond the Workplace

Outside of project management, Rankin is deeply engaged in her community. She is an avid hiker and traveler, finding inspiration in new environments and cultures that influence her leadership perspective. She also dedicates time to volunteer work, reinforcing her
commitment to service and giving back. These pursuits not only bring her balance but also fuel her creativity and resilience. “Leadership doesn’t stop when you leave the office,” she shares. “How you engage with your community, how you recharge, and how you continue to grow personally all feed into the kind of leader you are professionally.” Shaping the Future of Project Management

Rankin’s vision for the future of project management is one where human-centered leadership becomes the norm, not the exception. She sees organizations increasingly embracing practices that value empathy, mentorship, and trust as much as technical skill. She believes this shift will not only improve outcomes but also create workplaces where professionals feel fulfilled and empowered. “The best leaders,” she says, “are those who understand that productivity and well-being are not opposites—they are deeply connected. By putting people first, we build stronger teams and deliver stronger results.”

Recognition and Impact

Over the years, Rankin’s approach has earned recognition from colleagues and stakeholders alike. Her projects consistently meet or exceed expectations, but what stands out most is the culture she builds along the way. By fostering collaboration and resilience, she has set a standard for what leadership in project management can and should look like. As businesses across industries navigate increasing complexity, Rankin’s voice is one that resonates. She is demonstrating that success is not simply measured in numbers, but in the growth of people, the strength of teams, and the trust built along the way.

A Lasting Message

As she reflects on her journey, Rankin’s message is clear: leadership is not about control, but about service. It is not about perfection, but about resilience. And it is not about titles, but about the impact made on others. Her human-centered approach has already inspired many, and as she continues to champion this vision, her influence on the future of project management is only expected to grow.

“In every project,” she concludes, “the people are the real drivers of success. When you honor that truth, you not only deliver results—you create lasting progress.”

USA, 16th September 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, After months of anticipation in the AI infrastructure space, Synapse Power has officially launched its much-awaited Synapse Console, a user-facing dashboard that redefines how developers, contributors, and infrastructure partners interact with high-performance GPU workloads.

Synapse — already recognized across the industry for its clean-energy-backed data centers and performance-based compute orchestration — now offers a gateway that is as transparent as the infrastructure it runs. The launch represents a pivotal step toward making compute participation more open, accountable, and accessible to contributors worldwide.

From Invisible Compute to Full Transparency

For years, contributors powering AI and rendering workloads had little visibility into where their compute was going — or what value it created. Synapse Console changes that.

With this new platform, contributors can:

• Activate GPU compute plans (nodes) across different performance tiers
• Track real-time GPU utilization and workload type (e.g., AI model training, blockchain validation, 3D rendering)
• Earn XNAP tokens daily, directly linked to the actual value their node contributes
• Monitor historical performance, energy usage, and overall system health with full reporting

This transparency is designed to give individuals and organizations a more active role in the infrastructure economy. Instead of “blindly” renting out resources, contributors gain clarity into what their compute is doing, when it is being used, and how it is rewarded.

“The Synapse Console gives infrastructure contributors a real seat at the table,” said David Visher, CEO of Synapse Power. “You’re no longer handing over power without understanding its impact. Now, you can see exactly what your node is doing — and what you’re earning — in real time.”

What the Industry Has Been Waiting For

The launch of Synapse Console is more than a feature release — it is the beginning of a fundamental shift in digital infrastructure economics.

For decades, large-scale hyperscalers dominated access to compute resources, while contributors and smaller participants had limited transparency. With Synapse Console, the model flips: contributors receive visibility, real-time reporting, and compensation tied directly to performance.

Unlike speculative mining or passive staking models, Synapse Console contributors provide real-world compute power. Workloads include:

• Training large-scale AI and machine learning models
• Supporting rendering pipelines for gaming, film, and 3D content
• Running blockchain validation tasks and distributed applications

Compensation is directly tied to workload value, eliminating reliance on volatile markets and ensuring rewards reflect measurable performance outputs.

Building on Synapse’s existing traction across the UK and North American markets, where the company operates renewable-powered Tier-III data centers with 640+ GPUs already deployed, this launch signals a scaling-up of Synapse’s mission: making infrastructure contribution transparent, accountable, and inclusive.

The XNAP Economy – Backed by Performance

Central to this launch is Synapse Power’s proprietary token, XNAP, which serves as the backbone of the contributor reward system. Unlike hype-driven or speculative tokens, XNAP is built on utility and measurable performance.

• Daily issuance of XNAP is calculated against real compute output
• A fixed conversion model ensures rewards remain consistent and transparent
• Contributors can withdraw earnings with liquidity and confidence

This design enables participants to engage in a token economy that is tied to real-world value creation rather than market speculation. As workloads expand, XNAP’s utility deepens, creating a sustainable ecosystem where token rewards directly reflect infrastructure contribution.

A New Era of Participation

The Synapse Console launch marks the start of a new era in decentralized participation. Where once only hyperscalers dictated access to compute resources, Synapse is opening the doors to:

• Individual contributors who want to earn by running nodes
• Small and medium-sized teams building AI and digital applications
• Ecosystem partners seeking to plug into a transparent, scalable infrastructure

By democratizing access and giving contributors clear visibility into utilization and rewards, Synapse Power is bridging the gap between large-scale data infrastructure and the individuals powering the global AI revolution.

“This isn’t just a product launch — it’s a new chapter in how infrastructure works,” added Visher. “With Synapse Console, we’re proving that the future of compute belongs to everyone who contributes, not just the incumbents who control access.”

Powering the Future of Compute

As AI, blockchain, and high-performance workloads continue to accelerate, demand for GPU power has never been higher. Synapse Power’s vision is to meet that demand through a network of clean-energy-backed data centers and contributors who can trust that their participation is both meaningful and rewarded.

With transparency at its core, the Synapse Console ensures that every contributor has a clear view of their role in powering the global AI boom. Whether it’s training the next generation of large language models, running real-time simulations, or enabling creative industries to push boundaries, contributors are now part of the story.

Synapse Console is now live at: www.synapsepower.io

Texas, US, 16th September 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, After decades of shaping some of America’s most critical infrastructure systems, former Austin Water CIO and ERCOT IT Director David Johnson is using his recent in-depth interview to highlight a growing concern: public infrastructure is too often built around hype, not durability.

In his latest feature, Johnson reflects on his journey—from growing up on a cattle farm in Oklahoma to building the back-end systems of Texas’s deregulated energy market—and makes a call for leaders to rethink how resilience is designed and led.

“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that real transformation happens when people understand the systems they’re building,” Johnson says. “Too often, decisions are made from a distance—without ever stepping into a control room or walking the line.”

A Critical Time for Infrastructure

The warning comes at a pivotal moment. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, more than 70% of federal infrastructure systems are over 50 years old, while cyberattacks on utilities have risen 60% since 2020. Meanwhile, billions are being poured into digital transformation without a clear link to operational realities.

Johnson believes the solution lies in cross-functional leadership and deep context awareness—bridging IT, operations, compliance, and the field.

“You can’t manage what you don’t understand,” he adds. “If you’re building tech for a grid or water system, you should at least once stand inside a substation or treatment facility.”

Not Just Strategy—Culture

Johnson’s views, shaped by roles at ERCOT, EPB Chattanooga, and Austin Water, emphasise the value of small, consistent habits over grand strategies.

“Every day, I keep a simple printed sheet of my top priorities,” he shared in the interview. “It sounds old-school, but it keeps me honest and focused.”

He also called for cross-training teams, scenario-based learning, and building trust before crisis hits. These are strategies he used to lead global teams, manage budgets of over $100M, and retain 100% of his core team for more than a decade.

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About David Johnson

David Johnson is a seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in IT leadership, cybersecurity, and infrastructure modernisation across the utility sector. He has served in key roles at American Airlines, Deloitte, ERCOT, EPB Chattanooga, and most recently as CIO of Austin Water. Known for bridging the gap between operations and IT, David has led major digital transformations, built resilient high-availability systems, and managed budgets exceeding $100 million. Raised on a cattle farm in Oklahoma, he brings a grounded, systems-first approach to leadership—and continues to advocate for smarter, people-driven public infrastructure.