Brand Engagement Network shares surge 72.36% premarket after securing $2.05M AI licensing partnership in Africa with Valio Technologies.

Brand Engagement Network, Inc. (Nasdaq: BNAI) surged 72.36% in premarket trading following the announcement of a $2.05 million AI licensing partnership with Valio Technologies in Africa. The deal includes a preferred equity contribution, 25% common equity ownership, a 35% revenue share, and an exclusive perpetual license for BEN’s AI solutions across African government and private-sector markets. The partnership also involves a mental health pilot with Nelson Mandela University, leveraging BEN’s proprietary technology to address student wellbeing challenges. The agreement, aligned with the company’s strategy to expand governed AI solutions in emerging markets, underscores growing demand for compliant, localized AI platforms and positions BEN to monetize its intellectual property through equity and revenue participation. The move reflects confidence in BEN’s scalable ecosystem and its ability to capitalize on Africa’s digital economy.