FinQuery Accelerates Momentum With 19th Consecutive Quarter as the Top-Ranked Lease Accounting Software




FinQuery Accelerates Momentum With 19th Consecutive Quarter as the Top-Ranked Lease Accounting Software

Strategic leadership and product innovation follow recent majority investment from TA Associates

LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–FinQuery, a leading provider of AI-powered accounting automation software, announced today that its lease accounting solution, LeaseQuery, earned the No. 1 position on G2’s Lease Accounting Software Grid for the 19th consecutive quarter. The platform also ranked No. 1 within Enterprise, Mid-Market and SMB grids, reflecting FinQuery’s ability to flexibly serve customers across all stages.

Customer Satisfaction Scores Continue to Lead the Market

LeaseQuery maintains one of the highest satisfaction profiles in the category, supported by 474 customer reviews and a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. Highlights from the latest report include:

• Overall satisfaction score: 97 (+21pts higher than the closest competitor)
• Quality of Support: 94%
• Ease of Doing Business With: 95%
• Likelihood to Recommend: 92%
• Product Heading in the Right Direction: 96%

“FinQuery continues to deliver what finance teams value most: accuracy, efficiency and confidence in their data. We’re also excited to maintain our status as a leader in the market as we are beginning to serve more U.K. customers, many of whom are in the process of adopting the FRS 102 standard for the first time,” said Joe Schab, CEO of FinQuery. “In 2026, we are accelerating our investments in innovation and our commitment to fully modernise how organizations manage and report on their financial agreements.”

Executive Chairman Appointment Follows Major Growth Investment from TA Associates

FinQuery, which recently announced a majority investment from TA Associates, recently appointed Michael Baldock as executive chairman. Baldock joins FinQuery at a time when the company is scaling its unified subledger platform and expanding internationally. Prior to FinQuery, Baldock served as CFO at Abcam, a publicly listed health sciences company, and held senior roles at Lazard and HSBC.

“FinQuery is at an inflection point, and I am committed and enthusiastic to step into the role of Executive Chairman at such a pivotal time,” said Baldock. “The recent TA Associates partnership, coupled with the relentless pace of product innovation and these outstanding customer satisfaction scores, demonstrates a clear, accelerating path for the company. We will continue to invest aggressively to deliver the most trusted and efficient accounting solutions for the controllership.”

Growth in the U.K. Market

With the U.K. and Ireland compliance deadline for FRS 102 approaching, FinQuery is strengthening its commitment to the market and its growing customer base. To ensure success with local regulatory requirements, FinQuery is investing in the product and market through:

• Establishing a U.K. Customer Advisory Board focused on local support and service, particularly in understanding the new FRS 102 lease accounting standard.
• Actively hiring for multiple channel and sales roles to expand regional support.
• Attending key 2026 tradeshows, including FAB UK, Accountex London, and Accountex Manchester, to connect with partners and customers.

Product Innovation Strengthens Platform Vision

Through 2025, FinQuery introduced enhancements across its platform, and its AI and workflow automation capabilities. These updates support FinQuery’s broader vision to unify leases, contracts, and fixed assets into an AI-enabled subledger that improves accuracy, speeds audits, and simplifies compliance.

Key updates include:

• FRS 102 lease accounting functionality ahead of the U.K. and Ireland compliance deadline.
• FX rate integration and UI performance improvements for our expanding global customer base.
• AI-assisted workflows for contract and source document entry automating contract abstraction, classification, and matching to existing records.
• Email document ingestion driving ease of use around document collection and entry.

About FinQuery

FinQuery, formerly LeaseQuery, is a dedicated subledger that simplifies lease accounting compliance (ASC 842, IFRS 16, GASB 87 & 96, SFFAS 54, and FRS 102) and automates prepaid and accrual accounting. Built by accountants for accountants, our AI-enabled, CPA-approved SaaS platform empowers 40,000+ professionals by abstracting source documents like leases, contracts, and invoices into a complete system of record. FinQuery integrates with and complements your ERP, simplifying complex accounting, accelerating month-end close, streamlining the audit, and enhancing internal controls. Learn more at FinQuery.com.

Contacts

Media Contact:
Amelia Wright

amelia.wright@finquery.com

FinQuery Accelerates Momentum With 19th Consecutive Quarter as the Top-Ranked Lease Accounting Software




FinQuery Accelerates Momentum With 19th Consecutive Quarter as the Top-Ranked Lease Accounting Software

Strategic leadership and product innovation follow recent majority investment from TA Associates

LONDON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–FinQuery, a leading provider of AI-powered accounting automation software, announced today that its lease accounting solution, LeaseQuery, earned the No. 1 position on G2’s Lease Accounting Software Grid for the 19th consecutive quarter. The platform also ranked No. 1 within Enterprise, Mid-Market and SMB grids, reflecting FinQuery’s ability to flexibly serve customers across all stages.

Customer Satisfaction Scores Continue to Lead the Market

LeaseQuery maintains one of the highest satisfaction profiles in the category, supported by 474 customer reviews and a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. Highlights from the latest report include:

• Overall satisfaction score: 97 (+21pts higher than the closest competitor)
• Quality of Support: 94%
• Ease of Doing Business With: 95%
• Likelihood to Recommend: 92%
• Product Heading in the Right Direction: 96%

“FinQuery continues to deliver what finance teams value most: accuracy, efficiency and confidence in their data. We’re also excited to maintain our status as a leader in the market as we are beginning to serve more U.K. customers, many of whom are in the process of adopting the FRS 102 standard for the first time,” said Joe Schab, CEO of FinQuery. “In 2026, we are accelerating our investments in innovation and our commitment to fully modernise how organizations manage and report on their financial agreements.”

Executive Chairman Appointment Follows Major Growth Investment from TA Associates

FinQuery, which recently announced a majority investment from TA Associates, recently appointed Michael Baldock as executive chairman. Baldock joins FinQuery at a time when the company is scaling its unified subledger platform and expanding internationally. Prior to FinQuery, Baldock served as CFO at Abcam, a publicly listed health sciences company, and held senior roles at Lazard and HSBC.

“FinQuery is at an inflection point, and I am committed and enthusiastic to step into the role of Executive Chairman at such a pivotal time,” said Baldock. “The recent TA Associates partnership, coupled with the relentless pace of product innovation and these outstanding customer satisfaction scores, demonstrates a clear, accelerating path for the company. We will continue to invest aggressively to deliver the most trusted and efficient accounting solutions for the controllership.”

Growth in the U.K. Market

With the U.K. and Ireland compliance deadline for FRS 102 approaching, FinQuery is strengthening its commitment to the market and its growing customer base. To ensure success with local regulatory requirements, FinQuery is investing in the product and market through:

• Establishing a U.K. Customer Advisory Board focused on local support and service, particularly in understanding the new FRS 102 lease accounting standard.
• Actively hiring for multiple channel and sales roles to expand regional support.
• Attending key 2026 tradeshows, including FAB UK, Accountex London, and Accountex Manchester, to connect with partners and customers.

Product Innovation Strengthens Platform Vision

Through 2025, FinQuery introduced enhancements across its platform, and its AI and workflow automation capabilities. These updates support FinQuery’s broader vision to unify leases, contracts, and fixed assets into an AI-enabled subledger that improves accuracy, speeds audits, and simplifies compliance.

Key updates include:

• FRS 102 lease accounting functionality ahead of the U.K. and Ireland compliance deadline.
• FX rate integration and UI performance improvements for our expanding global customer base.
• AI-assisted workflows for contract and source document entry automating contract abstraction, classification, and matching to existing records.
• Email document ingestion driving ease of use around document collection and entry.

About FinQuery

FinQuery, formerly LeaseQuery, is a dedicated subledger that simplifies lease accounting compliance (ASC 842, IFRS 16, GASB 87 & 96, SFFAS 54, and FRS 102) and automates prepaid and accrual accounting. Built by accountants for accountants, our AI-enabled, CPA-approved SaaS platform empowers 40,000+ professionals by abstracting source documents like leases, contracts, and invoices into a complete system of record. FinQuery integrates with and complements your ERP, simplifying complex accounting, accelerating month-end close, streamlining the audit, and enhancing internal controls. Learn more at FinQuery.com.

Contacts

Media Contact:
Amelia Wright

amelia.wright@finquery.com

Palantir Announces Renewal of Multi-Year Contract with the DGSI




Palantir Announces Renewal of Multi-Year Contract with the DGSI

PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: PLTR) announces a three-year renewal of its contract with the DGSI, France’s domestic intelligence agency, extending a partnership that has been ongoing for nearly a decade. This agreement relates to the supply of Palantir’s proprietary software platform, as well as the integration, support, and assistance services that are necessary for the software’s deployment and operational use.

This renewal comes at a time when national security challenges require robust, scalable technological capabilities that meet the highest standards in security, confidentiality, and data governance. The scope of Palantir’s involvement remains strictly defined and aligned with the operational and regulatory requirements set by the French authorities. Additionally, it is part of a broader effort to support the transition towards French autonomy, in line with the French government’s strategic directions.

Supported by a French team of employees with France-based leadership and governance, Palantir’s solutions have supported the French internal intelligence service in its critical work, including during major national events such as the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The renewal of this contract confirms Palantir’s role as a technological partner that stands with French institutions responsible for national security and reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge capabilities with the level of rigor and reliability required for essential missions for France.

Alex Karp, co-founder and CEO of Palantir, said: “We are very proud to support the DGSI in its crucial work in the service of France and its fight against terrorism. This contract renewal reaffirms Palantir’s commitment to serving the interests of France since 2016, and ensuring the security of the French people.”

About Palantir

Foundational software of tomorrow. Delivered today. Additional information is available at https://www.palantir.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements may relate to, but are not limited to, Palantir’s expectations regarding the amount and the terms of the contract and the expected benefits of Palantir’s software platforms. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and were based on current expectations as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management as of that time with respect to future events. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond Palantir’s control. These risks and uncertainties include the ability to meet the unique needs of customers; the failure of Palantir’s platforms to satisfy customers or perform as desired; the frequency or severity of any software and implementation errors; Palantir’s platforms’ reliability; and customers’ ability to modify or terminate the contract. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in the filings Palantir makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Except as required by law, Palantir does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

Contacts

Ben Mascall

Media@palantir.com

Palantir Announces Renewal of Multi-Year Contract with the DGSI




Palantir Announces Renewal of Multi-Year Contract with the DGSI

PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: PLTR) announces a three-year renewal of its contract with the DGSI, France’s domestic intelligence agency, extending a partnership that has been ongoing for nearly a decade. This agreement relates to the supply of Palantir’s proprietary software platform, as well as the integration, support, and assistance services that are necessary for the software’s deployment and operational use.

This renewal comes at a time when national security challenges require robust, scalable technological capabilities that meet the highest standards in security, confidentiality, and data governance. The scope of Palantir’s involvement remains strictly defined and aligned with the operational and regulatory requirements set by the French authorities. Additionally, it is part of a broader effort to support the transition towards French autonomy, in line with the French government’s strategic directions.

Supported by a French team of employees with France-based leadership and governance, Palantir’s solutions have supported the French internal intelligence service in its critical work, including during major national events such as the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The renewal of this contract confirms Palantir’s role as a technological partner that stands with French institutions responsible for national security and reaffirms its commitment to providing cutting-edge capabilities with the level of rigor and reliability required for essential missions for France.

Alex Karp, co-founder and CEO of Palantir, said: “We are very proud to support the DGSI in its crucial work in the service of France and its fight against terrorism. This contract renewal reaffirms Palantir’s commitment to serving the interests of France since 2016, and ensuring the security of the French people.”

About Palantir

Foundational software of tomorrow. Delivered today. Additional information is available at https://www.palantir.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements may relate to, but are not limited to, Palantir’s expectations regarding the amount and the terms of the contract and the expected benefits of Palantir’s software platforms. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and were based on current expectations as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management as of that time with respect to future events. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond Palantir’s control. These risks and uncertainties include the ability to meet the unique needs of customers; the failure of Palantir’s platforms to satisfy customers or perform as desired; the frequency or severity of any software and implementation errors; Palantir’s platforms’ reliability; and customers’ ability to modify or terminate the contract. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in the filings Palantir makes with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Except as required by law, Palantir does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

Contacts

Ben Mascall

Media@palantir.com

AIG Appoints Scott Leney as Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific




AIG Appoints Scott Leney as Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) today announced that Scott Leney has been appointed Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific. Mr. Leney will lead AIG’s businesses in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Mr. Leney has more than three decades of experience leading global risk teams in the Asia Pacific region. He joins AIG from Everest Insurance, where he served as Head of Asia Pacific overseeing business strategy and portfolios in Asia and the Pacific. Prior to Everest, Mr. Leney spent 25 years at Marsh McLennan in senior leadership roles, including Head of Risk Management for Marsh Asia & Pacific, CEO of Marsh Australia, and CEO of Marsh Pacific.

“Scott’s extensive insurance industry experience and reputation across the Asia Pacific region makes him an excellent addition to AIG’s International Commercial Insurance leadership team,” said Jon Hancock, Chief Executive Officer, General Insurance, AIG. “His deep understanding of the opportunities across the region will be invaluable as we continue to grow our share in the marketplace. We are pleased to welcome Scott at this moment when we have significant opportunity for expansion as we strengthen AIG’s client and partner relationships and accelerate our market position in Asia Pacific.”

Mr. Leney will join AIG on February 1, 2026, subject to regulatory approval. In connection with his appointment, Chris Colahan will be leaving AIG to pursue other opportunities.

“It’s an honor to join AIG, a company that I have long admired for its a strong underwriting expertise, operational excellence and the value it delivers to clients and partners,” said Mr. Leney. “This role is a tremendous opportunity to further strengthen AIG’s position in key markets across the region, and I look forward to working with Jon Hancock and the talented AIG Asia Pacific team to drive the business forward.”

About AIG

American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) is a leading global insurance organization. AIG provides insurance solutions that help businesses and individuals in more than 200 countries and jurisdictions protect their assets and manage risks through AIG operations, licenses and authorizations as well as network partners. For additional information, visit www.aig.com. This website with additional information about AIG has been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such website is not incorporated by reference into this press release.

AIG is the marketing name for the worldwide operations of American International Group, Inc. All products and services are written or provided by subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. Products or services may not be available in all countries and jurisdictions, and coverage is subject to underwriting requirements and actual policy language. Non-insurance products and services may be provided by independent third parties. Certain property casualty coverages may be provided by a surplus lines insurer. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds, and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds.

Contacts

Quentin McMillan (Investors): quentin.mcmillan@aig.com
Leah Gerstner (Media): leah.gerstner@aig.com

AIG Appoints Scott Leney as Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific




AIG Appoints Scott Leney as Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) today announced that Scott Leney has been appointed Regional President, AIG Asia Pacific. Mr. Leney will lead AIG’s businesses in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Mr. Leney has more than three decades of experience leading global risk teams in the Asia Pacific region. He joins AIG from Everest Insurance, where he served as Head of Asia Pacific overseeing business strategy and portfolios in Asia and the Pacific. Prior to Everest, Mr. Leney spent 25 years at Marsh McLennan in senior leadership roles, including Head of Risk Management for Marsh Asia & Pacific, CEO of Marsh Australia, and CEO of Marsh Pacific.

“Scott’s extensive insurance industry experience and reputation across the Asia Pacific region makes him an excellent addition to AIG’s International Commercial Insurance leadership team,” said Jon Hancock, Chief Executive Officer, General Insurance, AIG. “His deep understanding of the opportunities across the region will be invaluable as we continue to grow our share in the marketplace. We are pleased to welcome Scott at this moment when we have significant opportunity for expansion as we strengthen AIG’s client and partner relationships and accelerate our market position in Asia Pacific.”

Mr. Leney will join AIG on February 1, 2026, subject to regulatory approval. In connection with his appointment, Chris Colahan will be leaving AIG to pursue other opportunities.

“It’s an honor to join AIG, a company that I have long admired for its a strong underwriting expertise, operational excellence and the value it delivers to clients and partners,” said Mr. Leney. “This role is a tremendous opportunity to further strengthen AIG’s position in key markets across the region, and I look forward to working with Jon Hancock and the talented AIG Asia Pacific team to drive the business forward.”

About AIG

American International Group, Inc. (NYSE: AIG) is a leading global insurance organization. AIG provides insurance solutions that help businesses and individuals in more than 200 countries and jurisdictions protect their assets and manage risks through AIG operations, licenses and authorizations as well as network partners. For additional information, visit www.aig.com. This website with additional information about AIG has been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such website is not incorporated by reference into this press release.

AIG is the marketing name for the worldwide operations of American International Group, Inc. All products and services are written or provided by subsidiaries or affiliates of American International Group, Inc. Products or services may not be available in all countries and jurisdictions, and coverage is subject to underwriting requirements and actual policy language. Non-insurance products and services may be provided by independent third parties. Certain property casualty coverages may be provided by a surplus lines insurer. Surplus lines insurers do not generally participate in state guaranty funds, and insureds are therefore not protected by such funds.

Contacts

Quentin McMillan (Investors): quentin.mcmillan@aig.com
Leah Gerstner (Media): leah.gerstner@aig.com

Best’s Commentary: Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates Asset Liability Management Significance for South Korea’s Non-Life Insurers




Best’s Commentary: Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates Asset Liability Management Significance for South Korea’s Non-Life Insurers

HONG KONG–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#insurance–The recent easing of discount rate regulations by South Korea’s financial authorities will alleviate pressure on the solvency position of the country’s non-life insurers, according to a new AM Best commentary.

South Korea’s non-life insurers are facing increasing solvency pressures due to declining market interest rates, along with the tightening of the discount rate calculation for insurance liabilities by its domestic regulators. However, a recently announced plan is expected to slow the pace of these cuts taking effect, which should ease the burden that insurers would face in securing their solvency positions, according to the report.

In South Korea’s non-life insurance market, the discount rate used in liability valuation plays an essential role in determining balance sheet strength under IFRS 17 and K-ICS (Korean Insurance Capital Standard), as the majority of the insurance book is structured as long-term contracts. The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has been actively involved in setting standards for the discount rate curves to enable better comparability within the industry.

The FSS had initially planned for a soft landing under IFRS 17 accounting standards that were implemented in 2023. This would allow a higher discount rate at implementation, then phasing in discount rate decreases gradually until 2027. However, interest rates have since fallen faster than anticipated. The country’s 10-year treasury bond yield has decreased from 3.85% in August 2023 to 2.56% at the end of April 2025, with a partial rebound to 3.34% in the beginning of December 2025.

“The effect of extending the final observation period becomes more severe as the market interest rate is lower than the long-term forward rate,” said Seokjae Lee, senior financial analyst, AM Best. “The lower discount rate leads to higher valuations of insurance liabilities, which can exert adverse pressure on the insurer’s capital adequacy and K-ICS ratios.”

In response to industry feedback, the FSS has revisited its plans related to lowering the discount rate and opted to slow the implementation pace to alleviate excessive capital pressures, according to the report.

To access the full copy of this Best’s Commentary, titled, “Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates ALM Significance for South Korean Non-Life Insurers,” please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=361002.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Seokjae Lee
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3407
seokjae.lee@ambest.com

Chanyoung Lee
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3404
chanyoung.lee@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Cynthia Ang
Senior Industry Research Analyst
+65 6303 5026
cynthia.ang@ambest.com

Best’s Commentary: Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates Asset Liability Management Significance for South Korea’s Non-Life Insurers




Best’s Commentary: Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates Asset Liability Management Significance for South Korea’s Non-Life Insurers

HONG KONG–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#insurance–The recent easing of discount rate regulations by South Korea’s financial authorities will alleviate pressure on the solvency position of the country’s non-life insurers, according to a new AM Best commentary.

South Korea’s non-life insurers are facing increasing solvency pressures due to declining market interest rates, along with the tightening of the discount rate calculation for insurance liabilities by its domestic regulators. However, a recently announced plan is expected to slow the pace of these cuts taking effect, which should ease the burden that insurers would face in securing their solvency positions, according to the report.

In South Korea’s non-life insurance market, the discount rate used in liability valuation plays an essential role in determining balance sheet strength under IFRS 17 and K-ICS (Korean Insurance Capital Standard), as the majority of the insurance book is structured as long-term contracts. The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has been actively involved in setting standards for the discount rate curves to enable better comparability within the industry.

The FSS had initially planned for a soft landing under IFRS 17 accounting standards that were implemented in 2023. This would allow a higher discount rate at implementation, then phasing in discount rate decreases gradually until 2027. However, interest rates have since fallen faster than anticipated. The country’s 10-year treasury bond yield has decreased from 3.85% in August 2023 to 2.56% at the end of April 2025, with a partial rebound to 3.34% in the beginning of December 2025.

“The effect of extending the final observation period becomes more severe as the market interest rate is lower than the long-term forward rate,” said Seokjae Lee, senior financial analyst, AM Best. “The lower discount rate leads to higher valuations of insurance liabilities, which can exert adverse pressure on the insurer’s capital adequacy and K-ICS ratios.”

In response to industry feedback, the FSS has revisited its plans related to lowering the discount rate and opted to slow the implementation pace to alleviate excessive capital pressures, according to the report.

To access the full copy of this Best’s Commentary, titled, “Relaxed Discount Rate Lowers Capital Pressures, Elevates ALM Significance for South Korean Non-Life Insurers,” please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=361002.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Seokjae Lee
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3407
seokjae.lee@ambest.com

Chanyoung Lee
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3404
chanyoung.lee@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Cynthia Ang
Senior Industry Research Analyst
+65 6303 5026
cynthia.ang@ambest.com

Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Named 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner




Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Named 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner

OKLAHOMA CITY–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As the leader of the No. 1 defense in the country, Ohio State University’s Caleb Downs has been named the 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner. The announcement was made live tonight on The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN. Downs received the 2025 honor – given to the top defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character – on behalf of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, Jim Thorpe Association and presenting sponsor Paycom.

Hoschton, Georgia, native Caleb Downs is the third Thorpe Award recipient from the Buckeyes, joining winners Malcolm Jenkins (2008) and Antoine Winfield (1998). Reigning unanimous All-American, Downs has been regarded as a leader on the defense from the moment he arrived at Ohio State in January 2024 and is considered a major contributor to the Buckeyes’ 2024 national championship run.

Anchoring one of the nation’s toughest secondaries, ranking first nationally in total defense, scoring defense and passing yardage, Downs is second among Buckeyes with 40 solo tackles, and his season totals also include five tackles for loss, a quarterback sack, two interceptions, two pass breakups and a quarterback hurry, showcasing his range, physicality and reliability on the back end. “I have spent 11 years coaching in the NFL and Caleb Downs is the best football player – pro or college – that I have ever coached,” said Tim Walton, Ohio State co-defensive coordinator/secondary coach. “He is first-class and exceptional in all areas he touches. He is intelligent, thoughtful, honest, trustworthy and dependable. As a player, he is tenacious, always well-prepared, tough, physical, fast and productive. On behalf of the Ohio State football coaching staff and program, I want to thank the Paycom Thorpe Award for honoring Caleb with this award.”

In addition to winning the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, Downs, an Ohio State Scholar-Athlete, was also named winner of the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy, awarded for on-field performance, academic standing, community contributions, leadership and overall character. He was also named a finalist for both the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award. An Associated Press All-Big Ten honoree and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Downs was also named the Big Ten’s Nagurski-Woodson Defensive Player of the Year and, for the second consecutive season, the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year. Selected as team captain by his peers, Downs was also nominated as Ohio State’s candidate for the 2025-26 Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award, an honor created to recognize Big Ten student-athletes who strive to have a positive impact within their community in addition to excellence in competition.

Downs commanded the voting, securing an impressive 67% of the first-place votes nationwide. This outcome was determined by the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award National Selection Committee, comprising the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in-house award committee, past recipients of the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, members of the National College Football Awards Association, and prominent sports writers and college football journalists from across the country.

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Paycom will honor Downs at the 40th Annual Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet as well as the 4th Annual Aeneas Williams Award winner, Jarod Washington from South Carolina State University, in Oklahoma City on Feb. 10, 2026.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA), which encompasses college football’s most prestigious awards. The NCFAA’s 25 awards have honored more than 950 recipients since 1935. Visit NCFAA.org for more information.

Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Important Dates

Tue., Feb. 10, 2026: Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet Honoring Caleb Downs from Ohio State University in Oklahoma City

The official presentation of the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award takes place in Oklahoma City, following The Home Depot College Football Awards. The current winner and all former winners are invited each year to celebrate. Over 600 supporters attend the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet each year, including many celebrities and dignitaries.

For more information on the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, past award recipients or banquet ticketing and advertising information, please visit www.oklahomasportshalloffame.org.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is awarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. The award was established in 1986 and is named after history’s greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe. Thorpe excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is universally accepted as one of the nation’s top collegiate sports honors.

Paycom Software, Inc. (NYSE: PAYC) (“Paycom”), a leading provider of comprehensive, cloud-based human capital management software, and the Jim Thorpe Museum and Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame jointly announced in May 2017 an exclusive sponsorship of the Jim Thorpe Award. As a result, the accolade has been named the “Paycom Jim Thorpe Award.”

The Aeneas Williams Award presented by the Chickasaw Nation is awarded to the best defensive back in Historically Black Colleges and Universities Division I college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. This award will serve as the first of its kind in HBCU history in honor of its namesake, Southern University walk-on and Pro Football Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams. The contribution of HBCUs to the landscape of college football and the NFL has forever left an impact on the game. HBCUs hold an incredibly rich athletic tradition, tied to the game of football, that continues to exemplify the culture of these schools for over the past century.

Contacts

Olivia James

Marketing Communications & Event Director

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame

ojames@oksportshof.org

Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Named 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner




Ohio State’s Caleb Downs Named 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner

OKLAHOMA CITY–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As the leader of the No. 1 defense in the country, Ohio State University’s Caleb Downs has been named the 2025 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner. The announcement was made live tonight on The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN. Downs received the 2025 honor – given to the top defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character – on behalf of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, Jim Thorpe Association and presenting sponsor Paycom.

Hoschton, Georgia, native Caleb Downs is the third Thorpe Award recipient from the Buckeyes, joining winners Malcolm Jenkins (2008) and Antoine Winfield (1998). Reigning unanimous All-American, Downs has been regarded as a leader on the defense from the moment he arrived at Ohio State in January 2024 and is considered a major contributor to the Buckeyes’ 2024 national championship run.

Anchoring one of the nation’s toughest secondaries, ranking first nationally in total defense, scoring defense and passing yardage, Downs is second among Buckeyes with 40 solo tackles, and his season totals also include five tackles for loss, a quarterback sack, two interceptions, two pass breakups and a quarterback hurry, showcasing his range, physicality and reliability on the back end. “I have spent 11 years coaching in the NFL and Caleb Downs is the best football player – pro or college – that I have ever coached,” said Tim Walton, Ohio State co-defensive coordinator/secondary coach. “He is first-class and exceptional in all areas he touches. He is intelligent, thoughtful, honest, trustworthy and dependable. As a player, he is tenacious, always well-prepared, tough, physical, fast and productive. On behalf of the Ohio State football coaching staff and program, I want to thank the Paycom Thorpe Award for honoring Caleb with this award.”

In addition to winning the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, Downs, an Ohio State Scholar-Athlete, was also named winner of the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy, awarded for on-field performance, academic standing, community contributions, leadership and overall character. He was also named a finalist for both the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award. An Associated Press All-Big Ten honoree and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Downs was also named the Big Ten’s Nagurski-Woodson Defensive Player of the Year and, for the second consecutive season, the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year. Selected as team captain by his peers, Downs was also nominated as Ohio State’s candidate for the 2025-26 Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award, an honor created to recognize Big Ten student-athletes who strive to have a positive impact within their community in addition to excellence in competition.

Downs commanded the voting, securing an impressive 67% of the first-place votes nationwide. This outcome was determined by the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award National Selection Committee, comprising the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in-house award committee, past recipients of the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, members of the National College Football Awards Association, and prominent sports writers and college football journalists from across the country.

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Paycom will honor Downs at the 40th Annual Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet as well as the 4th Annual Aeneas Williams Award winner, Jarod Washington from South Carolina State University, in Oklahoma City on Feb. 10, 2026.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA), which encompasses college football’s most prestigious awards. The NCFAA’s 25 awards have honored more than 950 recipients since 1935. Visit NCFAA.org for more information.

Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Important Dates

Tue., Feb. 10, 2026: Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet Honoring Caleb Downs from Ohio State University in Oklahoma City

The official presentation of the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award takes place in Oklahoma City, following The Home Depot College Football Awards. The current winner and all former winners are invited each year to celebrate. Over 600 supporters attend the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet each year, including many celebrities and dignitaries.

For more information on the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, past award recipients or banquet ticketing and advertising information, please visit www.oklahomasportshalloffame.org.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is awarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. The award was established in 1986 and is named after history’s greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe. Thorpe excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is universally accepted as one of the nation’s top collegiate sports honors.

Paycom Software, Inc. (NYSE: PAYC) (“Paycom”), a leading provider of comprehensive, cloud-based human capital management software, and the Jim Thorpe Museum and Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame jointly announced in May 2017 an exclusive sponsorship of the Jim Thorpe Award. As a result, the accolade has been named the “Paycom Jim Thorpe Award.”

The Aeneas Williams Award presented by the Chickasaw Nation is awarded to the best defensive back in Historically Black Colleges and Universities Division I college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. This award will serve as the first of its kind in HBCU history in honor of its namesake, Southern University walk-on and Pro Football Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams. The contribution of HBCUs to the landscape of college football and the NFL has forever left an impact on the game. HBCUs hold an incredibly rich athletic tradition, tied to the game of football, that continues to exemplify the culture of these schools for over the past century.

Contacts

Olivia James

Marketing Communications & Event Director

Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame

ojames@oksportshof.org