Ripple and Mastercard Test Secret Stablecoin System for Card Payments

**Ripple and Mastercard Partner to Test RLUSD Stablecoin Payments for Real-Time Fiat Card Settlements**

Ripple has announced a new partnership with Mastercard, WebBank, and Gemini to test RLUSD stablecoin payments. This collaboration aims to leverage Ripple’s XRPL platform to process real-time fiat card settlements securely and efficiently. The trial will evaluate the potential of blockchain technology to support mainstream financial transactions.

### Ripple Partners with Mastercard for On-Chain Settlements

In this collaboration, Ripple will work with Mastercard and WebBank to enable on-chain settlements for fiat card payments. The test will assess how the RLUSD stablecoin performs within Mastercard’s extensive global payment network. Additionally, the trial will examine compliance and operational stability for regulated financial institutions involved.

Mastercard plans to integrate Ripple’s XRPL platform to manage the settlement layer of these payments, aiming to bridge blockchain efficiency with traditional financial systems. The companies expect this system to provide fast, transparent settlements to participating institutions.

Sherri Haymond, Global Head of Digital Commercialization at Mastercard, commented on the partnership’s goal:
“Through our partnerships with Ripple, Gemini, and WebBank, we’re using our global payments network to bring regulated, open-loop stablecoin payments into the financial mainstream.” She emphasized Mastercard’s belief that stablecoins can offer a secure and compliant transaction layer for banks and issuers.

### RLUSD Stablecoin Enters Regulated Payment Testing

Central to this pilot program is Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin. The coin will facilitate settlements between Mastercard and WebBank, the issuer of the Gemini credit card involved in the trial. This initiative marks the first use of a regulated on-chain stablecoin for fiat settlement.

Currently, the RLUSD token has a total supply of $2 billion, with steady growth in the stablecoin market. Ripple envisions RLUSD as a reliable digital asset capable of supporting large-scale institutional transactions. The company highlights RLUSD’s controlled expansion as a reflection of its commitment to compliance and long-term stability.

Jason Lloyd, President and CEO of WebBank, emphasized the bank’s role in the project:
“Banks are uniquely positioned to bridge innovative blockchain technology with the stability of the traditional financial system.” WebBank will oversee settlement functions, ensuring regulatory oversight throughout the testing phase.

### XRPL to Demonstrate Institutional Settlement Capacity

The XRPL platform will power all transactions within this trial. Ripple originally developed XRPL to handle up to 1,500 transactions per second with minimal costs. Now, the system will be evaluated for its capacity to deliver institutional-grade payment efficiency.

Ripple President Monica Long stated that regulated stablecoins like RLUSD have the potential to enhance financial settlement systems. She added that Ripple’s goal is to expand XRPL’s presence in institutional finance through compliance-driven innovation and plans to integrate future programs once regulatory approvals are secured.

Currently, the XRPL network supports about 7,000 active wallets daily. Ripple continues to maintain XRP as one of the top 10 cryptocurrency assets by market value, with XRP trading steadily at around $2.31, reflecting consistent market interest.

### Regulatory Approval and Future Outlook

Before full deployment, regulators must approve RLUSD’s onboarding. Ripple and its partners will coordinate settlement processes once the necessary approvals are granted. This trial represents a landmark collaboration between a regulated U.S. bank and an on-chain settlement network.

This partnership signals a significant step toward integrating blockchain technology with traditional financial infrastructures, aiming to provide faster, more transparent, and compliant payment solutions.

*Source: Blockonomi*
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/tech/ripple-and-mastercard-test-secret-stablecoin-system-for-card-payments/

Six-million-year-old Antarctic ice reveals secrets of a warmer ancient Earth

Scientists have discovered the oldest directly dated ice on Earth—an incredible six million years old—deep in the frozen expanse of East Antarctica. The ice, along with ancient air bubbles trapped inside, offers a rare and powerful glimpse into what our planet’s climate was like when global temperatures and sea levels were far higher than they are today.

The discovery was made in the Allan Hills region by a U.S. research team from the Center for Oldest Ice Exploration (COLDEX), a collaboration of 15 institutions led by Oregon State University. The findings were published in the journal *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*.

“Ice cores are like time machines,” says Sarah Shackleton of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, one of the study’s lead scientists. “They let us see how Earth’s atmosphere and climate changed over time. The Allan Hills cores take us back much further than we ever imagined possible.”

Until now, the oldest ice directly dated by scientists was around 2.7 million years old. The new six-million-year-old sample more than doubles that record, opening a new window into an era when Antarctica’s climate was significantly warmer and large parts of its ice sheet may have melted, raising global sea levels.

John Higgins of Princeton University, another lead author, explains that the team used a noble gas isotope of argon trapped within the ancient air bubbles to directly date the ice. “This method allows us to measure the age of the ice itself, rather than relying on the age of nearby rocks or sediments,” he says. “What we have is a library of climate snapshots that are six times older than any previous ice core data.”

The COLDEX team found the ancient ice in a very different setting from traditional deep ice core sites. Instead of drilling more than two kilometers below the surface, they targeted the edges of the ice sheet in the Allan Hills, where wind, cold, and rugged terrain preserve ancient ice closer to the surface.

The team spent months in remote field camps drilling through one to two hundred meters of ice under extreme conditions. “We’re still figuring out how ice that old has survived so close to the surface,” Shackleton explains. “It’s probably a combination of strong winds that sweep away snow and the intense cold that keeps the ice nearly motionless. The Allan Hills are one of the best—and toughest—places on Earth to find shallow, ancient ice.”

Temperature readings taken from oxygen isotopes in the cores show that Antarctica has cooled by about 12 degrees Celsius (roughly 22 degrees Fahrenheit) over the past six million years. This marks the first direct measurement of how much the continent’s climate has changed since that time.

The researchers are now analyzing the ice for traces of greenhouse gases and ocean changes to better understand how natural climate shifts occurred before humans began influencing the planet’s atmosphere.

“This ancient ice will help us understand how Earth’s climate system responds to warmth and high carbon dioxide levels—conditions that may echo our own future,” says COLDEX Director Ed Brook of Oregon State University.

The team plans to return to the Allan Hills soon to continue drilling. “Given the spectacularly old ice we’ve already found,” Brook says, “we believe there’s an even deeper record waiting below—one that could stretch our knowledge of Earth’s climate history even further back in time.”
https://knowridge.com/2025/11/six-million-year-old-antarctic-ice-reveals-secrets-of-a-warmer-ancient-earth/

Shah Rukh Khan to resume shooting for King on November 5 in Mumbai: Report

After a weekend packed with birthday celebrations marking his 60th milestone, Shah Rukh Khan is set to return to work with renewed vigour. The superstar, who celebrated his birthday with an intimate gathering at his Alibaug property and a special fan meet in Mumbai, will be back on set for his much-awaited action film *King* starting November 5 at Yash Raj Studios, Andheri.

Directed by Siddharth Anand, *King* marks Shah Rukh Khan’s first on-screen collaboration with his daughter Suhana Khan, alongside Abhishek Bachchan. The project, which began principal photography in June 2025, is generating buzz not only for its casting but also for its ambitious action sequences.

A report by Mid-Day stated that the stunt unit has spent nearly three weeks rehearsing for a high-octane leg of filming — a hybrid chase-combat set piece that is set to push boundaries for Bollywood action. The upcoming 15-20 day schedule will centre around complex stunt choreography, combining hand-to-hand combat with tactical gunplay, wire-assisted jumps, and close-quarter grappling.

Shah Rukh Khan, known for his commitment to roles, will reportedly perform several of these intricate action beats himself. The team is employing a custom-designed rig to ensure both safety and spectacular results.

Director Siddharth Anand, who last teamed up with Shah Rukh for the record-smashing *Pathaan* in 2023, recently unveiled the film’s first look on November 2. The initial visuals introduced the audience to a transformed King Khan and gave a glimpse into the stylish, action-packed world that *King* promises.

The film aims to wrap up its dramatic portions by the end of the year, with the remaining key action sequences and musical numbers scheduled for completion soon after.

**Also Read:** Shah Rukh Khan opens up about his bond with Siddharth Anand: “He is a very aesthetic director”

**More Pages:**
– King Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/shah-rukh-khan-resume-shooting-king-november-5-mumbai-report/

Steak ’n Shake Launches Bitcoin Reserve and Fold Rewards Partnership

Steak ‘n Shake Introduces Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and $5 BTC Rewards to Boost Sales and Support Open-Source Bitcoin

Steak ‘n Shake has launched an innovative Strategic Bitcoin Reserve program, transforming the way it handles Bitcoin payments. All Bitcoin transactions made at the restaurant chain are now held in this dedicated reserve. Additionally, the company donates 210 satoshis (sats) per Bitcoin meal sold to the OpenSats Initiative, a nonprofit supporting open-source Bitcoin development.

Since the launch, Steak ‘n Shake has reported a remarkable 15% increase in same-store sales. The brand attributes this growth to rising Bitcoin adoption and increased customer engagement with digital payments. This move positions Steak ‘n Shake as a forward-thinking leader in integrating cryptocurrency into everyday dining experiences.

### What Is Steak ‘n Shake’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve?

The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is a program designed to securely hold all Bitcoin payments received by Steak ‘n Shake. Launched on October 31, 2025, it represents the company’s structured entry into cryptocurrency adoption within the fast-food industry.

Beyond securing Bitcoin payments, the reserve supports community-driven initiatives by donating 210 sats from each Bitcoin meal sale to the OpenSats Initiative over the next 12 months. This demonstrates Steak ‘n Shake’s commitment not only to embracing digital assets but also to fostering innovation within the Bitcoin ecosystem.

### How Does the Fold Partnership Enhance Bitcoin Rewards for Customers?

Steak ‘n Shake has partnered with Fold Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLD), a Bitcoin-focused financial services company, to offer customers $5 worth of Bitcoin as a reward for purchasing a Bitcoin Meal or Bitcoin Steakburger.

According to Fold CEO Will Reeves, this collaboration is designed to bring Bitcoin into everyday life. Similar past initiatives by Fold have resulted in over 100,000 reward redemptions, introducing thousands to crypto ownership.

The nationwide rollout started on October 31, 2025, and will continue while supplies last. This partnership taps into a growing trend where traditional businesses use crypto rewards programs to boost customer engagement and loyalty.

### Impact on Sales and Industry Trends

Steak ‘n Shake’s integration of Bitcoin reflects a broader shift in the restaurant industry toward digital currencies. By maintaining a Bitcoin Reserve and offering tangible rewards through its Fold partnership, the chain appeals directly to tech-savvy customers and crypto enthusiasts alike.

Financial publications such as CoinDesk report that crypto-based reward programs can increase customer repeat visits by 20-30% compared to traditional loyalty schemes. Steak ‘n Shake’s own data backs this, with a 15% sales increase attributed partly to the enthusiastic Bitcoin community.

The company expressed gratitude to Bitcoin supporters in a public announcement on X, attributing its recent sales uplift directly to this growing community. This growth showcases how cryptocurrency adoption can revitalize legacy brands facing stiff competition.

### Supporting Open-Source Bitcoin Development

The 210 satoshis donated per Bitcoin meal help fund the OpenSats Initiative, a nonprofit backed by prominent figures in the Bitcoin space. This contribution supports long-term innovation and development without involving speculative investments, fostering a healthier digital currency ecosystem.

### Aligning with Global Cryptocurrency Trends

Steak ‘n Shake’s strategy mirrors moves by major corporations like MicroStrategy, which have accumulated large Bitcoin reserves as part of their treasury strategy. For Steak ‘n Shake, the reserve helps preserve value amid Bitcoin’s price volatility.

At the same time, the Fold partnership gamifies Bitcoin adoption, turning familiar purchases like burgers and shakes into easy entry points for crypto ownership.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**How Can I Claim $5 in Bitcoin Rewards from Steak ‘n Shake and Fold?**
To claim the $5 Bitcoin reward, simply purchase a Bitcoin Meal or Bitcoin Steakburger at any participating Steak ‘n Shake location. Upload your receipt to the promotion website and create a Fold account to receive your redemption code. Note that the offer is limited to one reward per person while supplies last.

**What Impact Has Bitcoin Adoption Had on Steak ‘n Shake’s Sales?**
Steak ‘n Shake has seen a 15% increase in same-store sales, which the company attributes to growing Bitcoin adoption and an increase in digital payment engagement. The approach has helped the brand stand out and deepen customer loyalty.

## Key Takeaways

– **Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Launch:** Steak ‘n Shake now securely holds all incoming Bitcoin payments, signaling a strong commitment to digital assets.
– **Rewards Drive Adoption:** The partnership with Fold offers $5 in Bitcoin per qualifying purchase, making crypto engagement accessible through everyday dining.

### Conclusion

Steak ‘n Shake’s forward-thinking adoption of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and its collaboration with Fold Holdings to offer Bitcoin rewards highlight an exciting fusion of fast-food dining and cryptocurrency. This approach not only enhances customer loyalty and sales but also supports the broader Bitcoin ecosystem through meaningful donations. As digital currencies become increasingly mainstream, Steak ‘n Shake’s innovative strategy offers a blueprint for other businesses aiming to embrace the future of payments.

Learn more about how Steak ‘n Shake is blending crypto and dining to create new opportunities for customers and the Bitcoin community.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/bitcoin/steak-n-shake-launches-bitcoin-reserve-and-fold-rewards-partnership/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=steak-n-shake-launches-bitcoin-reserve-and-fold-rewards-partnership

NVIDIA (NVDA) becomes first company to pass $5 trillion valuation

NVIDIA Hits Historic $5 Trillion Market Capitalization Milestone

This week, NVIDIA made history by becoming the first-ever company to reach a staggering $5 trillion valuation. As one of the most prolific chip makers and designers powering the booming AI market, NVIDIA’s growth continues to soar alongside the expanding artificial intelligence sector. Tech giants are increasingly investing heavily in AI, driving significant demand for NVIDIA’s cutting-edge products.

On Tuesday, the company’s market capitalization hit an impressive $5.07 trillion, marking a landmark moment closely observed across global markets. This milestone was first reported by CNBC and highlights NVIDIA’s rising prominence in the technology landscape.

Recently, NVIDIA announced it had relocated much of its Blackwell AI chip manufacturing to Arizona, United States—a strategic move reflecting its ongoing commitment to innovation and scaling production capacity.

The reasons behind NVIDIA’s soaring valuation are clear. The company has long been at the forefront of AI chip and hardware design, positioning itself as a critical enabler for tech firms pouring millions into AI to gain a competitive edge. Despite facing setbacks, such as being forced to exit the Chinese market due to pressures from both Chinese and U.S. governments, NVIDIA’s value has skyrocketed.

Additionally, strategic collaborations have propelled NVIDIA forward. One notable example is its recent partnership with pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly to build a state-of-the-art supercomputer, underscoring NVIDIA’s expanding role beyond traditional tech sectors.

As NVIDIA continues to innovate and lead in AI technology, its historic $5 trillion valuation cements its status as a powerhouse in the industry, with a promising future ahead.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146567/nvidia-nvda-5-trillion-valuation

Representative Taylor Rehfeldt Selected for 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award

**Representative Taylor Rehfeldt Honored with 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award**

SIOUX FALLS, SD — The Council of State Governments (CSG) has named Representative Taylor Rehfeldt (R-District 14) as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award. This award recognizes the bipartisan leadership and public service of 20 emerging elected and appointed state officials across all four CSG regions.

“Serving South Dakota is a privilege. I’m grateful for this recognition because it reflects what matters most: delivering real results for families and communities across our state. There is important work ahead, and I’m committed to staying focused on solutions that make life better for every South Dakotan,” said Rep. Rehfeldt.

Established in 2020 through the vision of former New Hampshire Senator Lou D’Allesandro, a public servant of more than five decades, the CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award was created during his tenure as CSG National Chair. The award aims to strengthen engagement with younger state leaders.

Since its inception, the CSG 20 Under 40 community has annually welcomed a new class of inspiring public servants under the age of 40. These leaders make meaningful contributions to their communities while exemplifying the core CSG values of civility, collaboration, and innovation.

Rep. Rehfeldt was selected from a competitive pool of applicants who demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas:
– Engaging officials across party lines, departments, branches, and/or state lines to advance the common good for their state or territory.
– Providing exceptional leadership to a state project, committee, chamber, commission, or special group.
– Serving as a champion of change, seeking to enhance the lives of all constituents within a specific policy area.

A recognition ceremony for the 2025 recipients will take place at the CSG National Conference from December 9-13 in Chicago. Leaders from all 56 states and U.S. territories will be in attendance to exchange ideas, address complex state policy issues, and celebrate the work of outstanding public servants.

For more information about The Council of State Governments and the 2025 CSG 20 Under 40 Leadership Award, please visit [csg.org](https://www.csg.org).
https://dakotawarcollege.com/representative-taylor-rehfeldt-selected-for-2025-csg-20-under-40-leadership-award/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=representative-taylor-rehfeldt-selected-for-2025-csg-20-under-40-leadership-award

Deepika Padukone becomes Meta AI’s first Indian voice, joins global roster including Awkwafina, Judi Dench and more!

Deepika Padukone has created history by becoming the first Indian to lend her voice to Meta AI, the virtual assistant integrated into Meta’s ecosystem, including the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. She joins a prestigious global lineup of voices for the AI assistant, featuring Hollywood celebrities such as Awkwafina and Judi Dench.

This collaboration marks a powerful intersection of technology and culture, positioning Deepika as a bridge between global innovation and Indian identity. Meta announced that users in India will now be able to interact with Meta AI through Deepika’s voice, available in Indian English. Alongside this, the company introduced full Hindi language support and UPI Lite payments, making the experience more localized and personal.

The biggest talking point remains Deepika’s voice — warm, poised, and unmistakably familiar. Known for her global influence and grounded presence, Deepika brings authenticity and emotion to a space often dominated by synthetic tones. Her voice adds a human touch to artificial intelligence, turning digital interactions into something relatable and distinctly Indian.

For millions of users, hearing Deepika guide them through tasks or respond to questions adds a sense of comfort and connection rarely found in technology. This partnership also represents India’s growing significance in the global tech landscape. By featuring Deepika, Meta acknowledges India’s cultural power and linguistic diversity.

This move goes beyond mere convenience; it celebrates representation and the inclusion of an Indian identity within a global product. For Deepika, this step expands her influence beyond cinema into the realm of digital innovation. It’s another milestone in a career defined by versatility, intelligence, and impact.

With this collaboration, she becomes not just the voice of Meta AI but the voice of a new era where technology feels a little more human, and a lot more Indian.

**Also Read:**
Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour work rule sparks debate: Hansal Mehta, Hema Malini, and Sharmila Tagore weigh in

**BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES**
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/deepika-padukone-becomes-meta-ais-first-indian-voice-joins-global-roster-including-awkwafina-judi-dench/

BTS’s Taehyung sends ‘Hirono’ doll keychain flying off shelves

**BTS’s Taehyung Sends ‘Hirono’ Doll Keychain Flying Off Shelves**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 8, 2025, 4:04 PM*

BTS member Kim Taehyung, popularly known as V, has once again demonstrated his massive global influence. On October 4, Taehyung was spotted at Incheon International Airport, en route to Paris Fashion Week. While his fashion ensemble caught many eyes, it was the Hirono doll keychain hanging from his Celine bag that truly stole the spotlight—sparking an immediate sell-out of the collectible.

**The Instant Sell-Out Phenomenon**

The plush toy, officially named the *Hirono Living Wild Fight For Joy* edition, is a collaboration between Chinese artist Lang and the well-known designer toy brand Pop Mart. Within just 24 hours of Taehyung being seen with it, more than 500 units flew off the shelves from Pop Mart’s official stores in China, marking a record-breaking sell-out.

The adorable character is dressed in a brown suede bear suit paired with denim overalls, holding a small torch symbolizing courage and hope—a design that resonates with fans worldwide.

**Collector Trends and Fan Reactions**

Prior to Taehyung’s airport appearance, the Hirono doll was already gaining traction among art toy collectors. However, the BTS star’s endorsement propelled it to global sensation status overnight. Fans quickly dubbed Hirono “the new Labubu,” referencing Pop Mart’s previous viral toy line.

On social media, admirers shared their excitement with remarks like, “Labubu walked so Hirono could run,” while others praised Taehyung’s trendsetting influence as “Taehyung’s Midas touch in action!”

As always, Taehyung proves that his unique style and choices have the power to shape trends and captivate fans around the globe—turning simple collectibles into coveted must-haves almost instantly.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bts-s-v-ignites-worldwide-craze-for-hirono-doll/story

Products by students and alumni to be sold at John Hansard Gallery

As part of a new collaboration for the university’s retail initiative, Re: So, the John Hansard Gallery will be selling products on-site. This exciting partnership allows gallery visitors to engage directly with the work of three talented graduates. The items available for purchase include typographic prints, one-of-a-kind bookmarks, and stickers featuring a bespoke motif.

John Hansard Gallery’s duty manager, Jessica Willis, shared her enthusiasm about the collaboration:
“We are delighted to be a new stockist of Re: So products and to support the work of early career creatives from Solent University. Re: So is a fantastic resource for students, and it’s so exciting to see the fresh and innovative talent that’s emerging through their programme.”

Bookmarks handmade by illustration graduate Liberty Baker are now available to buy at the gallery as part of this initiative. Ms. Baker expressed her gratitude for the opportunity:
“I’m super grateful to have this opportunity. There is a great beauty in the uniqueness of each piece because you never know what the final outcome will look like, which is exciting. I hope that this exposure will allow more people to be inspired to create their own.”

Providing a platform for emerging designers is the central aim of Re: So, showcasing the creativity and talent of Solent University graduates.

[READ MORE: Young Southampton artist brings fresh energy to Sarisbury Green sign]
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25506813.john-hansard-gallery-selling-solent-university-students-work/?ref=rss

Asia Mobiliti to launch demand-responsive transit service in Muscat in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport

**DRT Combines Private Transport Convenience with Public Transport Affordability**

Asia Mobiliti, Malaysia’s leading Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) technology company, in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), has announced the upcoming launch of Oman’s first Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) service in Muscat.

The announcement was made during the Gulf Green Mobility Forum held earlier this month in Salalah, a significant regional gathering of transport ministers from across the GCC and beyond. The forum showcased major initiatives shaping the future of sustainable mobility.

### Introducing Community Demand-Responsive Transit

The pilot project will introduce a community DRT service — a flexible form of public transport that dynamically adjusts routes and schedules based on passenger demand. Utilizing smaller vehicles, this model extends the reach of public transport into neighborhoods that are not served by traditional bus lines, while minimizing empty runs and significantly reducing operational costs.

For Oman, the importance of this pilot goes beyond just technology. DRT offers the convenience of private transportation combined with the affordability of public transport. It provides a scalable approach to improving accessibility, reducing inefficiencies, and developing a more inclusive mobility system for residents, said Asia Mobiliti.

### A Milestone in Oman’s Public Transport Journey

The launch of this pilot marks a crucial step forward in Oman’s public transport evolution. Demand-Responsive Transit bridges the gap between fixed-route services and private transport, offering a financially sustainable and socially inclusive mobility model.

“We believe technology cannot simply be transplanted from one market to another,” said Ramachandran Muniandy, CEO and co-founder of Asia Mobiliti. “For Oman, we are working closely with the ministry and local partners to tailor the service to the culture and needs of its people, crafting a solution that truly belongs here.”

### Supporting Sustainability and Electrification Goals

Eng. Abdullah Al-Busaidi, Director General of the Oman Logistics Centre at MTCIT, emphasized the significance of the pilot: “This marks an important milestone in Oman’s journey towards sustainable mobility. Demand-Responsive Transit provides a practical solution to improve accessibility while reducing inefficiencies in the transport system.”

He added, “By starting with community DRT, we are testing an approach that can help us reach underserved areas, optimize resources, and advance our national net-zero objectives. This pilot also lays an excellent foundation for electrification, where flexible operations and intelligent routing can maximize the benefits of zero-emission fleets, supporting Oman’s broader logistics innovation agenda.”

### Building Towards an Integrated MaaS Ecosystem

The DRT pilot is a strategic move toward building a fully integrated Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) system in Oman. By addressing current gaps in the transport network and encouraging a shift toward shared and sustainable travel, DRT sets the foundation for greater public transport adoption.

Looking ahead, this initiative paves the way for a MaaS ecosystem that seamlessly connects different modes of travel, ensures interoperability across services, and delivers a truly integrated mobility experience for all residents and visitors in Oman.
https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/startups/asia-mobiliti-launch-demand-responsive-transit-service-muscat-collaboration-omans-ministry