News
Riverbed acquires Wi-Fi Networks provider Xirrus
Riverbed Technology announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Xirrus, the leading provider of next generation Wi-Fi networks. The acquisition of the privately-held company will expand Riverbed’s market leading SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network) and cloud networking solution Riverbed SteelConnect with the integration of a robust and proven suite of advanced, high density and cloud-managed Wi-Fi solutions, offering Riverbed customers and partners the power of unified connectivity and policy-based orchestration that spans the entire distributed network – WAN, LAN/WLAN, data center and the cloud. Riverbed will also continue to offer Xirrus as a stand-alone enterprise WLAN solution.
“Xirrus is a strategic acquisition for Riverbed, providing us with a leading enterprise-grade Wi-Fi solution, and enhancing SteelConnect to deliver an unmatched SD-WAN offering that will help further fuel our growth in this hot market,” said Jerry M. Kennelly, Riverbed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “In today’s digital, cloud, and mobile world, enterprise networks are more complex and unpredictable than ever before and IT is struggling to manage all of this. A fundamental rethink to networking is required and with this acquisition, Riverbed and our partners are uniquely positioned to provide CIOs and businesses with a software-defined networking approach that delivers unified connectivity and orchestration across the entire network.”
Riverbed SteelConnect is a highly differentiated SD-WAN solution offering: unparalleled simplicity and improved agility with centralized and unified management spanning the entire network fabric with policy-based orchestration and one-click connectivity to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure; superior performance with integrated WAN optimization and visibility; network and application intelligence with business intent-based policies and user experience driven control. By adding Xirrus, the power of policy-based orchestration by SteelConnect will be further extended to the wireless edge.
“Legacy approaches to network management have become completely untenable. IT must move beyond the days of managing individual network devices using arcane CLI commands and scripts and instead move to software-defined approaches that are based on global policies, automation and orchestration,” said Paul O’Farrell, Senior Vice President of the Riverbed SteelConnect, SteelHead and SteelFusion Business Unit. “The SteelConnect offering is unique in that it is the first SD-WAN solution that has extended the power of policy-based orchestration out to the broader reaches of the distributed network. By combining the advanced Wi-Fi capabilities of Xirrus and SteelConnect’s intuitive and powerful orchestration, we’re taking a bold step to bring the power of policy-based network management out to the wireless edge.”
Xirrus’ proven technology performs under the most demanding circumstances, offering consistent “wired-like” performance with superior coverage and security. The Xirrus suite of Wi-Fi solutions – high density access points, access points and cloud services – provide seamless connectivity and unified management across the network. Xirrus is recognized by Gartner in the “Visionaries” quadrant of the Magic Quadrant for the most recent Wired and Wireless LAN Access Infrastructure report. With solutions deployed on tens of thousands of networks and hundreds of thousands of cloud instances, Xirrus customers include some of the best known global companies and recognized brand names, including Microsoft, University of Mississippi, Liverpool Football Club and Paul Hastings Law Firm.
“Together with Riverbed, we embrace a tremendous opportunity to create the world’s first SD-WAN solution that covers the core to the edge of the network,” said Shane Buckley, CEO of Xirrus. “The integration of our solutions combines best-of-breed federated identity and application control with differentiated SD-WAN technology, addressing the stringent requirements of today’s cloud, mobile and digital world. We are thrilled to be part of the Riverbed family and continue to thrive in this fast-growing, critical market.”
“A key facet of network transformation is convergence at the enterprise branch as IT/network managers look to unify network operations and management across wired and wireless LANs and WANs, all within the context of a cloud-enabled architecture,” said Rohit Mehra, Research Vice President, Network Infrastructure, IDC. “With this acquisition, Riverbed is well positioned to address this shift, adding an enterprise-grade WLAN solution to a broader enterprise branch offering with SD-WAN that also integrates industry-leading WAN optimization and visibility.”
Today’s news continues Riverbed’s SteelConnect momentum in the market the past year. In January 2016, Riverbed acquired Ocedo Networks, a leading SD-WAN provider to accelerate the delivery of Riverbed’s next-gen networking solutions, and launched SteelConnect as an early access offering in April 2016, which included “one-click” connectivity to AWS. In September 2016, Riverbed announced general availability of SteelConnect 2.0 with many new features, including integrated visibility with Riverbed SteelCentral.
In early 2017, Riverbed added “one-click” secure connectivity to Microsoft Azure, integration with the market-leading WAN Optimization solution (Riverbed SteelHead SD), and a new offering for large-scale data center deployments; and in March 2017 Orange Business Services announced it will leverage SteelConnect to deliver a managed SD-WAN service. Today, Riverbed’s over 300 SD-WAN customers span across a wide range of industries globally, including retail, manufacturing, healthcare, professional services, finance, technology, and more.
Riverbed plans to offer Xirrus solutions through its robust partner ecosystem. The acquisition of Thousand Oaks, California-based Xirrus is expected to close in April 2017. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Financial
CFI Partners with Saadiyat Nights as Part of Its Collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi
CFI Financial Group is proud to announce its official partnership with Saadiyat Nights, as part of CFI’s strategic partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This collaboration underscores CFI’s commitment to supporting its local community and providing its clients with unforgettable cultural and entertainment experiences in one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.
Currently captivating audiences, the second edition of Saadiyat Nights is bringing legendary international artists, performers and fans together at the iconic open-air venue on Saadiyat Island. Running from December to February, this extraordinary series features iconic acts like Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, Robbie Williams, Michael Bublé, Leningrad, Ebi and Omar Khairat, with some already dazzling the stage and others eagerly awaited.
Through this collaboration, CFI will benefit from exceptional brand visibility at each event, while offering its clients premium access to performances and money-can’t-buy experiences, including exclusive Meet & Greet opportunities with some of these legendary artists.
“Through this collaboration, CFI reinforces its brand presence and industry leadership by securing high brand visibility at each of the Saadiyat Nights events in Abu Dhabi, a key hub for culture and global connections,” said Hisham Mansour, Co-founder and Managing Director of CFI. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful connections, supporting cultural initiatives and providing our clients with opportunities to engage with world-class experiences that complement their journey with CFI.”
Through this partnership, CFI is proud to support Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading cultural destination in the region, while staying committed to its mission of providing traders with exceptional trading experiences and engaging with like-minded local communities.
Hospitality
Where There Is Trade, There Is Gulfood
There is only one place where the world gathers annually to witness an unparalleled F&B showcase, with products meticulously handpicked from every corner of the globe. This time, a new global chapter is unfolding in the future of food and it’s within the legacy of Gulfood that the world can anticipate a seismic impact.
The 30th edition of Gulfood, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 17 – 21 February, will host a record 5,500+ exhibitors from 129+ countries. It will unveil new business opportunities and solve new and evolving global challenges.
Celebrating 30 Editions of Informing the Global Foodscape
For over three decades, Gulfood has been the driving force at the heart of global food commerce—igniting innovation, sparking cross-cultural collaboration and redefining the next era of global F&B. As the world experiences a sweeping transformation in food systems—powered by groundbreaking technologies, sustainability breakthroughs, and forward-thinking ideas—Gulfood 2025 will be the epicentre of this revolution. This is where the next era of food begins, and you’re invited to be at the forefront.
Event date: 17 – 21 February 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre & registration is now live.
Why Visit?
Where The World Connects for Their F&B Sourcing Success
- 5500+ Exhibitors: Explore 100k+ new products and innovations from a vast exhibitor showcase across eight distinct sectors.
- 129 Countries Exhibiting: Experience global diversity with the biggest lineup of participating countries.
- 43% New Exhibitors: Get the first look at the fresh offerings from exhibitors attending the show for the first time.
- 24 Huge Halls: Navigate 24 massive halls filled with exhibitors, country pavilions and culinary experiences.
- 1 Million Sq. Ft Exhibition Area: Gulfood 2025 boasts one million square feet of show floor space.
- Network And Pre-Schedule Meetings: Establish close connections with F&B industry leaders through pre-scheduled meetings via our official event app and meetings programme.
Show Sectors
Gulfood is set to showcase the latest trends and advancements in the F&B industry, spanning seven distinct sectors: Dairy, Beverage, Fats & Oils, Pulses & Grains, Meat & Poultry, Power Brands and World Food.
Anticipate exploring products spanning these sectors at Gulfood, the ultimate platform for connecting with industry leaders, discovering state-of-the-art innovations and forging valuable partnerships in the ever-evolving F&B landscape.
Features
The summit will unite global leaders to tackle key challenges, sparking discussions, and showcasing trends, featuring top CEOs, policymakers and innovators.
From talks like Visionaries: Exploring Cutting-Edge Technologies Driving Food Tech to Pioneering Smart Agricultural Systems in the F&B Sector and more, the summit aims to drive business, inspire change and fuel global economic growth.
GULFOOD DISCOVERY TOURS
Over five days, engage in curated tours that are designed to connect you directly with the products you’re most interested in sourcing. The tours focus on diverse food categories such as Gourmet, Alternative Proteins, Ready-to-Eat, and Plant-Based. F&B professionals, buyers and sourcing experts can gain valuable insights, access exclusive products and make informed business decisions while exploring key trends influencing global F&B.
Top Table
Top Table returns with a charismatic group of local and international chefs who are reimagining the way we create and enjoy food. With a bold focus on culinary futurism, the 2025 edition will debut new techniques, inventive flavour combinations and unconventional textures that surprise and delight audiences.
YOUTHX – YOUNG CHEF CHALLENGE
Witness a high-energy culinary competition between young hotel chefs from around the world. They will compete for a career-defining internship at some of the top restaurants and culinary schools in Europe. Gulfood’s YouthX brings together emerging culinary talent from diverse cultures, offering a global platform that unites chefs through healthy competition. They’ll be judged on futuristic techniques that set the event apart from previous editions, showcasing the next generation of global culinary leaders.
BLEND STUDIO
Celebrate the artistry of beverages with immersive masterclasses that showcase the latest trends and exclusive, never-seen-before creations crafted by industry experts. Explore the world of coffee and the trendiest crafted drinks while seizing opportunities to connect and learn from leading beverage professionals.
THE CULINARY DEBATE
Watch as global culinary icons debate the industry’s most critical challenges and exciting opportunities in the world of food. You’ll be captivated as they offer fresh perspectives on the rapidly evolving industry landscape.
THE TASTING ROOM
Experience the latest culinary creations from top brands and network with business leaders in the F&B industry. Whether you’re looking for the market’s most exciting products, new partnerships or upcoming trends, this is where opportunities come to life.
DUBAI WORLD CUISINE
Experience an exclusive four-hands dinner series that brings together celebrated international chefs and homegrown culinary talent. These unique collaborations offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to savour bespoke menus, where local flavours and global expertise converge to create exceptional dining experiences.
GULFOOD AFTER HOURS
Explore Dubai’s vibrant food scene with Gulfood After Hours. We’ve teamed up with the city’s most iconic restaurants to give you an unforgettable culinary adventure. From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll experience the very best Dubai has to offer, outside of the exhibition halls. Simply book, show your ticket, and enjoy exclusive offers at venues across the city.
INNOVATION AWARDS
The Gulfood Innovation Awards will celebrate brands setting a new standard for excellence in F&B. Recognising forward-thinking products that demonstrate creativity, ingenuity and impact, these prestigious awards highlight the best in the F&B industry across 10 categories.
Financial
MultiBank Group Secures Court Victory as Judge Declares Von Der Heydt Claims as “Fictitious” and “Untenable”
MultiBank Group has achieved a significant courtroom victory in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court against Von Der Heydt Invest S.A. (VDH), a Von Der Heydt Group subsidiary, which had brought claims against MultiBank FX International Corporation (MBFX), a MultiBank Group entity, and its founder, Naser Taher.
The court described the allegations brought by VDH as ‘fictitious’ and ‘untenable’, labelling VDH’s pursuit of these matters as an “abuse of process.” The court ordered VDH to cover over USD$25 million in legal costs incurred by Mr. Taher and MBFX.
The Honorable Justice Gerhard Wallbank’s decision rejected VDH’s claims and confirmed MultiBank Group’s adherence to transparency and integrity. Naser Taher, Founder and Chairman of MultiBank Group said: ‘The accusations levied against us by Von Der Heydt have always been unfounded, and this ruling is a testament to our strong adherence to the principles of fairness and lawful conduct.’
The court confirmed that the legal campaign by VDH and its affiliates over the past four years consisted of coordinated and unfounded allegations targeting MultiBank Group. The judgment also highlighted a “conspiratorial network” involving multiple parties.
A previous ruling by the court made in early 2024 compared the relationship between the Von Der Heydt Group, to the Bernie Madoff ponzi scheme.
This decision marks an end to VDH’s pursuit of claims against the MultiBank Group and runs parallel to the financial group’s broader collapse. Von Der Heydt Bank, a 250-year-old institution and VDH’s parent company, has surrendered its banking license and ceased to exist after being placed in liquidation by its founder Dietrich Von Boetticher. The court further commented on the plight of German noteholders allegedly represented by VDH, attributing their difficulties to mismanagement at the hands of the Von Der Heydt leadership.
A prior ruling by the London High Court found Colm Smith, CEO of CSM Securities, and his company in contempt of court for not adhering to a worldwide freezing order (WFO) obtained by MultiBank Group. This contempt stems from Smith’s failure to disclose assets related to a legal dispute involving Van Der Heydt Invest SA (VDHI), where significant losses were linked to investments in notes associated with the Multibank Index. His actions have raised the possibility of imprisonment as the court continues to address allegations of unlawful collusion against MultiBank Group, which are unfolding in various European courts.
MultiBank Group’s victory in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court further solidifies its position as a trusted leader in the financial derivatives market, operating under the oversight of 16 regulators across five continents and serving over one million clients worldwide. Naser Taher added: ‘We are delighted that the judiciary has recognised the baseless nature of these accusations and affirmed our global reputation for integrity and operational excellence. We remain steadfast in delivering the highest standards of financial services to our clients.’
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