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Mayor Isko thanks PBBM for P5K cash aid to Manila tricycle drivers amid oil price surge
**media[86713]**Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, on Tuesday, March 17, thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the national government began distributing P5,000 cash assistance to tricycle drivers in Metro Manila to help cushion the impact of rising fuel prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East.Speaking at the ASAC Covered Court, one of several payout sites in the National Capital Region, Domagoso said the assistance would provide immediate relief to transport workers struggling with the sharp increase in oil prices.“Nagpapasalamat tayo kay Presidente. Napakalaking bagay nito para sa ating mga driver, maibsan ang hinaharap nilang suliranin dahil sa presyo ng gas (We thank the President. This is a big help for our drivers as it eases the burden they are facing because of the high price of fuel),” the mayor said.Domagoso also expressed gratitude on behalf of Manila residents and the transport sector, saying the city is thankful for the national government’s support during a period of economic strain.The assistance follows the announcement by Marcos Jr. on Monday, March 16, of government measures aimed at cushioning the effects of global oil price increases linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.Under the program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will distribute P5,000 in cash assistance to around 139,000 tricycle drivers across 17 local government units in Metro Manila beginning March 17.The President said similar support will also be extended to tricycle drivers outside the National Capital Region, while jeepney drivers and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers are expected to receive the same amount in the coming days.Aside from the cash assistance, the national government is also preparing fuel subsidies for transport workers and additional aid for farmers and fisherfolk affected by rising oil prices.
2026-03-17 02:38:00

金斯瑞生物科技公布2025年业绩:稳健增长蓄势待发,业务增长迎来再加速
新泽西州皮斯卡特维2026年3月16日 /美通社/ -- 全球领先的生命科学研发与制造服务提供商金斯瑞生物科技股份有限公司(HK.1548)今日公布截至2025年12月31日止的全年业绩,公司业务稳健增长,在复杂市场环境中展现出良好的经营韧性与发展潜力。 2025年,金斯瑞持续经营业务收入约959.5百万美元,同比增长61.4%。毛利增长103.3%至553.2百万美元。持续经营业务经调整净利润约230.3百万美元,同比增长285.0%。公司三大业务板块均实现了增长,运营效率持续提升,进一步巩固了长期发展的财务基础。 金斯瑞集团轮值CEO邵炜慧表示:"2025年的业绩体现了公司核心业务的稳健增长与平台能力的持续提升。依托创新驱动和全球化战略,金斯瑞不断强化三大业务板块的协同优势。未来,我们将继续深化技术创新与全球运营能力建设,与全球合作伙伴共同成长,为客户与股东创造长期价值。" 业务板块亮点 金斯瑞生命科学——依托"从基因到蛋白"的一体化飞轮效应,实现第二增长曲线突破 金斯瑞生命科学板块全年收入约522.1百万美元,同比增长14.8%;经调整毛利267.3百万美元,同比增长12.5%。增长主要得益于"基因到蛋白"一体化平台协同效应的持续释放,以及全球化布局带来的收入结构多元化。公司通过品牌升级与精准营销持续拓展客户基础,新客户销售额实现快速增长,同时欧洲和亚太市场份额进一步扩大,巩固其全球市场竞争力。 蓬勃生物——收入增速持续攀升,全球业务稳健扩张 生物药CRDMO平台子公司蓬勃生物持续扩大业务规模。2025年,蓬勃生物收入约388.7百万美元,同比增长309.1%;经调整毛利约258.4百万美元,同比增长1697.5%。公司紧抓市场机遇,凭借平台优势精准匹配市场需求,常规服务业务实现稳健增长,收入的有机增长超过21%。同时依托自有平台和高潜力资产,稳步推进多个项目,以赋能客户成功,加速药物研发进程。 百斯杰——以创新性研发和全球化战略,驱动业务持续增长 工业合成生物学子公司百斯杰持续推进"AI+合成生物学"研发体系,加速创新产品商业化。2025年,百斯杰收入约为58.0百万美元,同比增长7.9%;经调整毛利约为23.0百万美元。同时,公司凭借AI研发平台效力的提升,专利申请达历年最高,研发效率取得历史性突破,为创新产品的全球推广奠定坚实基础。公司的创新甜蛋白产品Mellia®在获得美国FDA GRAS认证后,正积极推进中国市场准入,预计今年年中将正式启动商业化,为业务增长注入新的活力。 全球运营与可持续发展 金斯瑞持续推进自动化、数字化及全球生产网络建设,构建更具效率与韧性的全球化运营平台。同时,2025年公司成功完成品牌焕新,进一步强化了"以客户为中心、与客户一道Scripting Possibilities"的理念。此举驱动我们持续赋能全球科学家与合作伙伴,将"可能"化为现实,加速创新与突破,进一步提升全球品牌影响力与客户体验。 在可持续发展方面,金斯瑞持续推进ESG实践,不断获得多项国际权威认可,包括MSCI AA评级、入选富时社会责任指数系列、获得EcoVadis银牌评级,并成功入选2026年标普全球可持续发展年鉴,跻身全球可持续发展标杆企业之列。 展望 在生命科学创新爆发的拐点,金斯瑞锚定"技术驱动+全球布局"双轮战略:一方面加速AI赋能研发、生物智造升级与前沿疗法落地;另一方面深化生命科学、生物药CRDMO与合成生物学三大引擎的协同效应,构建全球竞争力,确保公司在新周期中持续领跑,为客户创造价值,为股东兑现长期回报。 2025年财务表现* 收入 于2025年,本集团录得收益约959.5百万美元,较2024年的约594.5百万美元增加61.4%。这主要是由于(i)许可收益大幅增加,主要源自礼新所产生的分许可收益;(ii)持续投入商业推广,配合全球品牌焕新提升品牌知名度,尤其在欧美市场成效显著;(iii)业界对AI驱动药物开发及多抗体药物开发需求持续增长,带动基因至蛋白业务快速成长;(iv)成功把握住生物制剂CRDMO需求回升及市场环境复苏的趋势加速增长;及(v)推出创新性工业酶制剂产品,不断拓展市场。 毛利 于2025年,本集团的毛利由2024年的约272.1百万美元,增加103.3%至约553.2百万美元。毛利增加主要是由于收益增加,特别是生物制剂开发服务分部的许可收益增加。经调整毛利较上期增加98.6%。 销售及分销开支 于2025年,本集团的销售及分销开支由2024年的约88.1百万美元,增加12.9%至约99.5百万美元。这主要由于(i)扩充商业团队并加强在当地招聘经验丰富的专业人才,及(ii)持续投资区域运营以支撑全球关键市场的业务发展与客户参与度。经调整销售及分销开支较上期增加14.6%。 行政开支 于2025年,行政开支由2024年的约114.4百万美元,增加12.4%至约128.6百万美元。这主要是由于(i)产能扩建配套及增强行政职能导致开支持续增加,及(ii)新厂筹备阶段所产生的相关费用。经调整行政开支较上期增加14.8%。 研发开支 于2025年,研发开支由2024年的约53.8百万美元,增加32.4%至约71.2百万美元,主要归因于专业人才招募数量增加以及战略研究计划的扩展。经调整研发开支较上期增加32.8%。 持续经营业务经调整净利润 报告期内本集团持续经营业务的经调整净利润约為230.3百万美元,较上期增长285.0%。
2026-03-15 16:39:00

金斯瑞生物科技公佈2025年業績:穩健增長蓄勢待發,業務增長迎來再加速
新澤西州皮斯卡特維2026年3月15日 /美通社/ -- 全球領先的生命科學研發與製造服務提供商金斯瑞生物科技股份有限公司(HK.1548)今日公佈截至2025年12月31日止的全年業績,公司業務穩健增長,在複雜市場環境中展現出良好的經營韌性與發展潛力。 2025年,金斯瑞持續經營業務收入約959.5百萬美元,同比增長61.4%。毛利增長103.3%至553.2百萬美元。持續經營業務經調整淨利潤約230.3百萬美元,同比增長285.0%。公司三大業務板塊均實現了增長,運營效率持續提升,進一步鞏固了長期發展的財務基礎。 金斯瑞集團輪值CEO邵煒慧表示:「2025年的業績體現了公司核心業務的穩健增長與平台能力的持續提升。依托創新驅動和全球化戰略,金斯瑞不斷強化三大業務板塊的協同優勢。未來,我們將繼續深化技術創新與全球運營能力建設,與全球合作夥伴共同成長,為客戶與股東創造長期價值。」 業務板塊亮點 金斯瑞生命科學——依托「從基因到蛋白」的一體化飛輪效應,實現第二增長曲線突破 金斯瑞生命科學板塊全年收入約522.1百萬美元,同比增長14.8%;經調整毛利267.3百萬美元,同比增長12.5%。增長主要得益於「基因到蛋白」一體化平台協同效應的持續釋放,以及全球化佈局帶來的收入結構多元化。公司通過品牌升級與精準營銷持續拓展客戶基礎,新客戶銷售額實現快速增長,同時歐洲和亞太市場份額進一步擴大,鞏固其全球市場競爭力。 蓬勃生物——收入增速持續攀升,全球業務穩健擴張 生物藥CRDMO平檯子公司蓬勃生物持續擴大業務規模。2025年,蓬勃生物收入約388.7百萬美元,同比增長309.1%;經調整毛利約258.4百萬美元,同比增長1697.5%。公司緊抓市場機遇,憑借平台優勢精準匹配市場需求,常規服務業務實現穩健增長,收入的有機增長超過21%。同時依托自有平台和高潛力資產,穩步推進多個項目,以賦能客戶成功,加速藥物研發進程。 百斯傑——以創新性研發和全球化戰略,驅動業務持續增長 工業合成生物學子公司百斯傑持續推進「AI+合成生物學」研發體系,加速創新產品商業化。2025年,百斯傑收入約為58.0百萬美元,同比增長7.9%;經調整毛利約為23.0百萬美元。同時,公司憑借AI研發平台效力的提升,專利申請達歷年最高,研發效率取得歷史性突破,為創新產品的全球推廣奠定堅實基礎。公司的創新甜蛋白產品MelliaR在獲得美國FDA GRAS認證後,正積極推進中國市場准入,預計今年年中將正式啟動商業化,為業務增長注入新的活力。 全球運營與可持續發展 金斯瑞持續推進自動化、數字化及全球生產網絡建設,構建更具效率與韌性的全球化運營平台。同時,2025年公司成功完成品牌煥新,進一步強化了「以客戶為中心、與客戶一道Scripting Possibilities」的理念。此舉驅動我們持續賦能全球科學家與合作夥伴,將「可能」化為現實,加速創新與突破,進一步提升全球品牌影響力與客戶體驗。 在可持續發展方面,金斯瑞持續推進ESG實踐,不斷獲得多項國際權威認可,包括MSCI AA評級、入選富時社會責任指數系列、獲得EcoVadis銀牌評級,並成功入選2026年標普全球可持續發展年鑒,躋身全球可持續發展標桿企業之列。 展望 在生命科學創新爆發的拐點,金斯瑞錨定「技術驅動+全球佈局」雙輪戰略:一方面加速AI賦能研發、生物智造升級與前沿療法落地;另一方面深化生命科學、生物藥CRDMO與合成生物學三大引擎的協同效應,構建全球競爭力,確保公司在新週期中持續領跑,為客戶創造價值,為股東兌現長期回報。 2025年財務表現* 收入 於2025年,本集團錄得收益約959.5百萬美元,較2024年的約594.5百萬美元增加61.4%。這主要是由於(i)許可收益大幅增加,主要源自禮新所產生的分許可收益;(ii)持續投入商業推廣,配合全球品牌煥新提升品牌知名度,尤其在歐美市場成效顯著;(iii)業界對AI驅動藥物開發及多抗體藥物開發需求持續增長,帶動基因至蛋白業務快速成長;(iv)成功把握住生物制劑CRDMO需求回升及市場環境復甦的趨勢加速增長;及(v)推出創新性工業酶制劑產品,不斷拓展市場。 毛利 於2025年,本集團的毛利由2024年的約272.1百萬美元,增加103.3%至約553.2百萬美元。毛利增加主要是由於收益增加,特別是生物制劑開發服務分部的許可收益增加。經調整毛利較上期增加98.6%。 銷售及分銷開支 於2025年,本集團的銷售及分銷開支由2024年的約88.1百萬美元,增加12.9%至約99.5百萬美元。這主要由於(i)擴充商業團隊並加強在當地招聘經驗豐富的專業人才,及(ii)持續投資區域運營以支撐全球關鍵市場的業務發展與客戶參與度。經調整銷售及分銷開支較上期增加14.6%。 行政開支 於2025年,行政開支由2024年的約114.4百萬美元,增加12.4%至約128.6百萬美元。這主要是由於(i)產能擴建配套及增強行政職能導致開支持續增加,及(ii)新廠籌備階段所產生的相關費用。經調整行政開支較上期增加14.8%。 研發開支 於2025年,研發開支由2024年的約53.8百萬美元,增加32.4%至約71.2百萬美元,主要歸因於專業人才招募數量增加以及戰略研究計劃的擴展。經調整研發開支較上期增加32.8%。 持續經營業務經調整淨利潤 報告期內本集團持續經營業務的經調整淨利潤約為230.3百萬美元,較上期增長285.0%。 投資者及媒體聯繫: 投資者關係 郵箱:ir@genscript.com 媒體咨詢 郵箱:media@genscript.com 公司官網: https://www.genscript.com.cn 財務回顧 *為更好地反映本集團現有業務及經營的關鍵表現,經調整淨利潤按不包括以下各項的淨虧損計算:(i)以股權結算的股份薪酬開支;(ii) 收購及優先股公允價值虧損的影響;(iii)外匯遠期和期權合約虧損;(iv)長期資產減值虧損;(v)匯兌損益;(vi)非流動金融資產的公允價值收益或虧損;(vii)股權融資活動的未實現融資成本; (viii) 應占傳奇集團的虧損及解除合併的服務費;及(ix)於傳奇集團投資的減值。本文件旨在提供簡要信息,並非針對公司、其證券或任何相關事項的完整或全面說明。如欲獲取更多詳細信息,敬請參閱金斯瑞集團3月15日發佈於公司官網的正式公告,一切信息應以正式公告為準。
2026-03-15 16:36:00

Brazil revokes visa of US diplomat in Bolsonaro row
RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday banned a US diplomat who wanted to visit the jailed former far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro amid fears of US meddling ahead of elections this year.Bolsonaro, sentenced for plotting a coup, was hospitalized in intensive care Friday after developing bronchopneumonia.US President Donald Trump has called the case against his Latin American ally a "witch hunt."Lawyers for Bolsonaro earlier this week asked the Supreme Court to allow Darren Beattie, the US State Department's new advisor on Brazil, to visit Bolsonaro in prison on March 18.The Supreme Court initially agreed to the visit but later revoked the authorization after the Brazilian government cautioned against the meeting."I banned him from coming to Brazil," Lula said at an event in Rio de Janeiro on Friday.A Brazilian diplomatic source told AFP that Beattie's visa was revoked Friday due to "lies about the purpose of the visit."Lula said the US diplomat would not be allowed into Brazil until Washington lifted a visa ban on Brazilian Health Minister Alexandre Padilha.Padilha was sanctioned late last year over his role in a program to employ Cuban doctors in Brazil.Bid to steal electionBolsonaro, 70, is serving a 27-year sentence over his failed bid to remain in power after his defeat by Lula in 2022.He was suffering from "high fever, a drop in oxygen saturation, sweating and chills," according to a statement from the DF Star Hospital in Brasilia, and receiving intravenous antibiotics to treat "bilateral bacterial bronchopneumonia."His medical team later told a press conference Friday that his condition was "stable" but gave no indication of when he might be discharged.Bolsonaro's trial last year sparked the ire of the Trump administration, which imposed high tariffs on a range of Brazilian goods as punishment.Washington scaled back the tariffs after a meeting between Lula and Trump in October.But Brazil remains wary of Trump's campaign to sway events in Latin America, after his overthrow of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and attempts to influence elections from Argentina to Honduras.Trump was embroiled in his own attempt to overturn an election when he refused to accept defeat to Joe Biden in 2020, culminating with a mob of supporters attacking the US Congress building in Washington.'Undue interference'Brazil's foreign ministry said Beattie's visa had been granted exclusively to allow him to attend a forum on critical minerals and to participate in meetings with Brazilian government officials.It added that the visit of a foreign public official to a former president during an election year "could constitute undue interference" in Brazil's internal affairs, according to court documents.Bolsonaro remains a figurehead of the Brazilian right, despite his incarceration and debilitated physical state.He has suffered from recurring health issues since being stabbed in the abdomen during a campaign event in 2018.The Supreme Court has until now denied requests that he be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest."They are playing with my father's life," his senator son Flavio Bolsonaro, who is running for president in October's elections against Lula, said Friday.
2026-03-14 03:30:11

Ateneo ends slump, sweeps UE to close first round
MANILA, Philippines — Ateneo de Manila University snapped a two-game slump, ending the first round with a 25-14, 25-17, 25-20 sweep of the University of the East in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Saturday.Jian Salarzon, who was limited to just four points in the previous match, bounced back with 15 points on 12 attacks, three blocks, and six receptions to lead the Blue Eagles to their drought-ending win.“Sobrang dami ng tight games namin this first round na kung dapat nadisiplina lang namin ‘yung sarili namin eh nagawan agad namin ng paraan sana makakakuha pa kami ng wins. Magbibase kami sa assessment namin, ipa-polish pa yung kailangan namin,” said Ateneo head coach Vince Mangulabnan.“Sa men’s volleyball ngayon, hindi mo talaga alam kung sinong malakas at sino ang hindi kasi sobrang pantay pantay talaga siya. Malingat ka lang ng konti, tatalunin ka eh.”The victory was much needed for the Blue Eagles, who came off two straight losses against the league’s top teams, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws and the National University Bulldogs.Ateneo finished the first round with a 3-4 record, currently in solo fourth place, though De La Salle University and University of the Philippines, both at 2-4, still have a game left.The Red Warriors threatened to extend the match with a 17-15 lead in the third set, but the Blue Eagles remained resolute. Off-the-bench Julio Yu sparked an 8-0 fightback, allowing Ateneo to seize control and secure the victory in 80 minutes.Pacinio contributed eight points, while Kennedy Batas and Rodge Alejos added five and four points, respectively.Aceron led UE with 14 points, but support was scarce. Mark Lee Budias was the next highest scorer with just four points.The Red Warriors ended the first round on a four-game skid, dropping to 1-6 and sitting in last place. TMT
2026-03-14 03:29:49

Trump turns to Strategic Petroleum Reserve as oil prices soar
NEW YORK — Oil prices have soared since the US and Israel launched their war against Iran, and President Donald Trump is now turning to America’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve as part of a wider agreement from many of the world’s wealthiest countries to tap into emergency stockpiles.Trump previously downplayed the need of using reserve oil after the Iran war broke out, maintaining that US supplies were ample and prices would soon fall. But that changed Wednesday, when the International Energy Agency pledged to release 400 million barrels of oil available from its member nations’ stockpiles, the largest volume of emergency oil pulled in the organization's history.The US is one of the IEA's 32 member countries. And the Trump administration soon confirmed that it would release 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve starting next week as part of this effort — with deliveries set to roll out over 120 days.The widening war has strained the energy sector globally. And in the U.S., drivers are already facing higher gas prices, a key cost of living. Trump's Republican Party is under pressure over the issue of affordability ahead of November midterm elections. And tapping the reserve is among the few things a president can do on his own to try to make an impact on oil prices — although it's not a permanent fix.Here is a look at what would be involved:What is the Strategic Petroleum Reserve?The Strategic Petroleum Reserve is a collection of underground salt caverns in Texas and Louisiana that can hold more than 700 million barrels of oil, although it is not currently full. The reserve held more than 415 million barrels as of the end of last month, up from about 395 million barrels at this time in 2025, according to the US Energy Department.The reserve was created after the 1970s Arab oil embargo to give the United States a supply that could be used in an emergency. The amount of oil inside peaked more than a decade and a half ago, Energy Department data shows, when the reserve held more than 726.6 million barrels at one point.Will gas prices get cheaper when the reserve is tapped?While pulling from the reserve may provide some short-term relief, it's takes a while for new supply to trickle down to consumers — and many factors go into prices at the pump.In the US, the average price for gasoline has already climbed nationally — sitting at nearly $3.60 per gallon on Thursday, up about 35 cents from a week ago and 65 cents a month ago, per motor club AAA.Refineries buy crude oil in advance, so it’s possible that the pain of higher prices could increase further if the war drags on. And even if more oil were withdrawn from the reserve, refineries could still be working with more expensive supply for a bit.As always, some states also have pricier averages than others, due to factors ranging from nearby refinery supply to local fuel requirements and differing tax rates. On Thursday, California had the highest average of nearly $5.37 per gallon, while Kansas had the lowest of about $3.04 a gallon.Gas prices are regressive — meaning lower-income people are more likely to spend a higher percentage of their money on fuel than affluent Americans. So increases hurt the most price-sensitive consumers.How is the reserve used?Today, the US exports more petroleum than it imports. But the reserve remains and has been tapped for various reasons over time, from offsetting the impact of hurricanes and ship-channel closings to raising money for deficit reduction.Former presidents have turned to the reserve amid supply disruptions spanning from geopolitical conflicts, adding more supply onto the market in the hope of pushing prices lower. President Joe Biden drew significantly from the reserve in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, dropping the stockpile to its lowest level since the 1980s. Back in 1991, President George H.W. Bush also authorized withdrawing nearly 34 million barrels during the Gulf War, although only 17 million barrels were used. And in 2011, President Barack Obama approved the release of 30 million barrels to offset the disruption of supply from Libya.Why is Trump tapping the reserve now?As the Iran war continues to escalate, oil prices have spiked and swung rapidly. That's because the flow of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz has all but stopped, cutting off a vital passageway where roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil sails through on a typical day. Major producers in the region like Iraq, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have also cut production because they are running out of storage space. And Iran, Israel and the US have all struck oil and gas facilities, worsening supply concerns.The price for a barrel of Brent crude, the international standard, was back over the $100 mark on Wednesday — up from nearly $70 a barrel just late last week. Meanwhile, benchmark US crude was $96.12 as of morning trading.In efforts to alleviate some of the effects of the Iran war on energy markets, the IEA on Wednesday said it will make 400 million barrels of oil available. The Trump administration's plans to pull 172 million barrels from the reserve are part of that effort.Trump frequently criticized the administration of his predecessor, Joe Biden, for tapping the reserve to try and bring down gas prices. US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright reiterated that criticism when announcing the coming release from the reserve on Wednesday — and said that the US had arranged to replace about 200 million barrels of reserve oil within the next year.How do they get the oil out?Oil is lighter than water — that’s why disasters like those caused by the Exxon Valdez tanker and the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig create slicks on the surface. To remove oil from the reserves, water is pumped into the salt caverns, making the crude float to the surface, where it is captured and sent through pipelines to refineries.
2026-03-12 17:39:50

President of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS) Calls for Physician Stewardship
TUSCON, Ariz., March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Since the early years of American independence, life expectancy increased from 32 years in 1800 to 68.2 years in 1950. Private indemnity insurance developed to help cover the cost of medical care. Only 9 percent of the U.S. population had such coverage in 1940, but 75 percent did by 1960, writes George L. Smith, III, M.D., in the spring issue of the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Smith, current president of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS), practices family medicine in Covington, Ga.The federal government has increasingly been involved in the financing of care, starting with the Hill-Burton Act of 1946, which provided grants for hospital construction. Passage of Medicare and Medicare in 1965 has been followed by incremental controls on allowable services and charges, and efforts to end private indemnity coverage and even our entire private medical system, Dr. Smith writes.During a mission trip to Ukraine in 2000, Dr. Smith experienced the reality of socialized medicine. A nurse kept him from discarding a used tongue depressor that he had brought along so that it could be used on another patient. He also notes that in a communist system, there is not just scarcity of material resources but no room for morals or rules to protect the individual."The communist has no security as long as capitalism exists,” Dr. Smith points out. The goals and methods in the 1946 Blueprint for World Conquest are still pertinent in the ongoing all-encompassing class struggle despite the collapse of the Soviet empire.As physician stewards. Dr. Smith states that "we have the responsibility to warn others regarding socialism and communism and help them realize we must solve our own medical coverage problems in a manner that protects the freedoms we hold so dear.”The Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons is published by the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS), a national organization representing physicians in all specialties since 1943.Contact: George L. Smith, III, at gsds74@icloud.com or Jane M. Orient, M.D., (520) 323-3110, janeorientmd@gmail.com
2026-03-09 21:40:58

Building on Taco Tuesday, Taco John's Expands Daily Deals to Deliver Even More Value
Building on Taco Tuesday, Taco John's Expands Daily Deals to Deliver Even More ValueNew weekday deals launching across the brand’s 325+ locationsST. LOUIS PARK, Minn., March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Taco John’s® fans are in for some big savings with new weekday deals launching across the brand’s 325+ locations. Beginning this week, the expanded lineup gives guests even more reasons to stop by again and again, whether longtime fans or first-time tasters:Taco Tuesday: Enjoy the Crispy Taco for just $1.39 every Tuesday.Wake Up WednesdayTM: Start the day strong with the Meat & Potato Breakfast Burrito for $3.19.Taco Bravo® Thursday: Score the award-winningTaco Bravo for just $2.79. The fan favorite was recently crowned the #1 Fast Food Taco in USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards*. Delivering crave-worthy Taco John’s favorites at prices that make every day feel fiesta-worthy, these specials are designed to give guests more ways than ever to savor the best of West-MexTM. Signature everyday touches continue to set Taco John’s apart, including fresh Pico de Gallo, crispy taco shells and chips fried in-house daily, and bold proprietary seasonings that are featured in hearty meals made with 100% North American beef, all-white meat chicken or hand-cut sirloin steak."Taco John’s has long been known for Taco Tuesday, and we’re thrilled to spotlight other crave-worthy specials throughout the week that deliver on that excitement for guests. We’re proud to be the place our communities come to for tacos and burritos any day of the week, and these new daily deals give our guests even more reasons to stop in and save on the flavors they crave,” said Kevin Flaherty, Taco John’s Chief Marketing Officer.Everyday Value & RewardsBeyond weekday specials, Taco John’s Meal Steals at $5, $7 and $9 are available daily, offering guests hearty West-Mex meals featuring signature menu items. Rewards Members can unlock even more exclusive savings in the Taco John’s app this season, including:Free Delivery during college basketball playoffs (March 17-22): Free delivery on orders of $20 or more when ordering from TacoJohns.com or in the appNational Burrito Day (April 3): Free Bean Burrito with a $3+ purchaseTax Day (April 15): Free Small Potato Olés® with a $3+ purchase For more information or to find a location, visit www.TacoJohns.com or download the Taco John’s app.*https://tacojohns.com/taco-johns-taco-bravo-named-best-fast-food-taco-in-annual-usa-todays-10best-survey/About Taco John’s®Welcome to the Frontier of West-MexTM-a land for wide-open appetites, where classic American comfort meets the bold spice and flavor of Mexican-inspired cuisine. With more than 325 restaurants in 21 states, Taco John’s® has spent more than 55 years crafting made-to-order favorites with quality ingredients, house-made Pico de Gallo, crispy corn shells and tortilla chips fried fresh in-store daily, and originals you won’t find anywhere else-like hot, crispy Potato Olés® and the award-winning Taco Bravo®, recently named the best fast food taco in America. Founded in 1969 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Taco John’s has earned recognition from Entrepreneur and QSR Magazine as one of the nation’s top chains to watch. Learn more at TacoJohns.com and follow Taco John’s on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.Media Contact:Joshua LevittPR for Taco John’sjosh@fikacollective.comA photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d52481d7-0283-401d-a836-ebd8c5a15430.
2026-03-09 21:40:49

Novonesis named a Great Employer to Work For in North Carolina
Employee PhotoNovonesis employees gathered at the Franklinton, North Carolina site during Manufacturing Day 2025.Franklinton, North Carolina, March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Novonesis, a global leader in biosolutions, has been named a 2026 Great Employer to Work for in North Carolina by Best Companies Group (BCG), marking the company’s first time earning this prestigious recognition. BCG is a trusted leader in workplace culture research and recognition, distinguishing top companies around the United States for more than 20 years. The honor is based entirely on confidential employee feedback and a comprehensive evaluation of workplace practices, culture, and leadership. Novonesis ranked 6th on the list of Great Employers to Work for in North Carolina. With more than 700 employees across North Carolina, Novonesis’ recognition reflects its commitment to building a workplace where people can be themselves, grow their careers, and contribute to meaningful work that improves lives and the planet. "At Novonesis, we believe people are at the heart of everything we do,” said Tue Micheelsen, President of Novonesis North America. "Being named a Great Employer is especially meaningful because it is rooted in direct employee feedback. Our teams in North Carolina are passionate about our purpose - to better our world with biology - and this recognition affirms our commitment to creating a culture where people feel respected, supported, and inspired to make a difference.” Novonesis’ workplace culture is built around the idea of ‘The biological choice’ - offering employees a career that matters. Across its North Carolina operations, employees are empowered to bring their authentic selves to work, collaborate across disciplines, and develop professionally while advancing biosolutions that transform industries ranging from food and agriculture to health, energy, and manufacturing. With major operations in Franklinton, Morrisville, and Durham, Novonesis employs scientists, engineers, manufacturing specialists, and corporate professionals, including teams at North America’s largest multipurpose enzyme manufacturing facility in Franklinton. Together, these teams drive innovation across more than 30 industries, helping customers produce more sustainably, reduce environmental impact, and improve everyday life. "Our culture is rooted in respect, inclusion, and continuous learning,” said Darren Alfano, Head of People & Organization at Novonesis. "We want every colleague to feel they belong, are challenged to grow, and can see the real-world impact of their work. This recognition reinforces that Novonesis is not just a great place to work, it’s a place to build a purpose-driven career.” Novonesis has proudly called North Carolina home for more than four decades and continues to invest in the region through workforce development, advanced manufacturing, STEM education partnerships, and community engagement. The company collaborates closely with state agencies, academic institutions, and industry organizations to strengthen the state’s leadership in biotechnology and biomanufacturing while creating high-quality jobs and expanding career pathways. "We are proud to honor Novonesis with this certification,” said Jaime Raul Zepeda, Executive Vice President of Best Companies Group. "Their commitment to employee well-being, innovation, and excellence truly embodies what it means to be a Great Employer in North Carolina.” See all the 2026 Great Employers to Work for in North Carolina winners here. ### About Novonesis Novonesis is a global company leading the era of biosolutions. By leveraging the power of microbiology with science, we transform the way the world produces, consumes, and lives. In more than 30 industries, our biosolutions are already creating value for millions of consumers and benefitting the planet. Our 10,000 people worldwide work closely with our partners and customers to transform business with biology. Learn more on www.novonesis.com MEDIA RELATIONS - NORTH AMERICA Kathy Humphrey Head of Communications, North America Phone: 1 919-494-8764 khp@novonesis.com AttachmentEmployee Photo
2026-03-09 21:40:38

Olimpic Maids Celebrates 145th 5-Star Google Review, Reinforcing Role as Best House Cleaning Service in Jersey City, NJ
Jersey City Cleaning Services by Olimpic Maids LLC provides professional deep home cleaning and maid services for residents in Jersey City, New Jersey. This video highlights the company’s residential cleaning solutions designed to help homeowners maintain a cleaner and healthier living space.Jersey City, NJ, March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Olimpic Maids today announced that it has reached its 145th 5-star Google review, marking a significant milestone in customer satisfaction and service quality. The achievement reflects continued trust from local clients and reinforces Olimpic Maids’ role as the best house cleaning service in Jersey City, NJ.Fresh, spotless living space after a professional cleaning.The milestone highlights consistent feedback from homeowners who rely on Olimpic Maids for dependable, stress-free cleaning services. Clients frequently reference the company’s straightforward online booking process with instant pricing, along with clear communication, English-speaking staff, and consistent results as reasons for their positive experiences."We believe booking a cleaning should feel straightforward and stress-free, with clear pricing and no unnecessary back-and-forth,” said a spokesperson for Olimpic Maids.Olimpic Maids provides flat-rate cleaning services that are completed thoroughly rather than by the hour. Many homeowners choose recurring service to ensure their homes remain consistently maintained without the burden of managing cleaning themselves.In addition to residential house cleaning, Olimpic Maids also provides office cleaning and short-term rental cleaning services, including Airbnb turnovers, across Jersey City, Hoboken, and nearby areas.As the company continues to grow, it remains focused on delivering reliable service and a seamless experience for homeowners and businesses alike.For more information about Olimpic Maids or to book a cleaning, visit https://olimpicmaids.com.About Olimpic MaidsOlimpic Maids is a professional cleaning company based in Jersey City, NJ. The company provides residential house cleaning, office cleaning, and short-term rental cleaning services for clients across Jersey City, Hoboken, and nearby areas. Olimpic Maids is recognized for its transparent flat-rate pricing, licensed and insured teams, and commitment to consistent service quality.Olimpic Maids’ online booking page allows Jersey City residents to view flat-rate pricing and schedule a cleaning in seconds.Press InquiriesOlimpic Maidspress [at] olimpicmaids.comhttps://olimpicmaids.comA video accompanying this announcement is available here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=fY2TRB0RA_4
2026-03-09 21:40:29

Itafos to Present at the Sidoti Small Cap Conference
HOUSTON, March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Itafos Inc. (TSX-V: IFOS) (OTCQX: ITFS) ("Itafos” or "the Company”) announced today that it will be presenting at the Sidoti Small Cap Conference at 3:15 EST on Thursday March 19, 2026. Register here to attend the virtual event: https://sidoti.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YCIRIrUhQBuEB2r6HTcp5A.About ItafosItafos is a phosphate and specialty fertilizer company with businesses and projects spanning three continents:Conda - a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business located in Idaho, US, with the following production capacity: approximately 550kt per year of MAP, MAP+, SPA, merchant grade phosphoric acid ("MGA”) and APPapproximately 27kt per year of hydrofluorosilicic acid ("HFSA”)Arraias - a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business located in Tocantins, Brazil, with the following production targets (following the proposed restart of the beneficiation circuit): approximately 275kt per year of single superphosphate ("SSP”), PAPR and DAPR approximately 170kt per year of SSP, 60kt per year of PAPR and 45kt per year of DAPRapproximately 40kt per year of excess sulfuric acid (220kt per year gross sulfuric acid production capacity)Farim - a high-grade phosphate mine project located in Farim, Guinea-Bissau; andSantana - a vertically integrated high-grade phosphate mine and fertilizer plant project located in Pará, Brazil The Company is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Houston, Texas, with shares trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker "IFOS”. The Company’s shares also trade in the US on the OTCQX® Best Market ("OTCQX”) under the ticker symbol "ITFS”. The Company’s principal shareholder is CL Fertilizers Holding LLC ("CLF”), an affiliate of global private investment firm Castlelake, L.P.For more information, or to join the Company’s mailing list, please visit www.itafos.com.About Sidoti Events, LLC ("Events”) and Sidoti & Company, LLC ("Sidoti”)In 2023, Sidoti & Company, LLC, Sidoti & Company, LLC (www.sidoti.com) formed an affiliate company, Sidoti Events, LLC in order to focus exclusively on its rapidly growing conference business and to more directly serve the needs of presenters and attendees. The relationship allows Events to draw on the 25 years of experience Sidoti has as a premier provider of independent securities research focused specifically on small and microcap companies and the institutions that invest in their securities, with most of its coverage in the $200 million-$5 billion market cap range. Sidoti’s coverage universe comprises approximately 160 equities, of which 50 percent participate in the firm’s rapidly growing Company Sponsored Research ("CSR”) program. Events is a leading provider of corporate access through the eight investor conferences it hosts each year. By virtue of its direct ties to Sidoti, Events benefits from Sidoti’s small- and microcap-focused nationwide sales force, which has connections with approximately 2,500 institutional relationships in North America. This enables Events to provide multiple forums for meaningful interaction for small and microcap issuers and investors specifically interested in companies in the sector.Forward-Looking InformationCertain information contained in this news release constitutes forward-looking information. All information other than information of historical fact is forward-looking information. Statements that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and/or assumptions in respect of the Company’s financial and business outlook are forward-looking information. The use of any of the words "intend”, "anticipate”, "plan”, "continue”, "estimate”, "expect”, "may”, "will”, "project”, "should”, "would”, "believe”, "predict” and "potential” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information.The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management, some of which are set out herein, which management believes are reasonable as at the date the statements are made. Those opinions, assumptions and estimates are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other known and unknown factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information.Although the Company has attempted to identify crucial factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Additional risks and uncertainties affecting the forward-looking information contained in this news release are described in greater detail in the Company’s Annual Information Form and current Management’s Discussion and Analysis available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.itafos.com. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates, assumptions or opinions should change, except as required by applicable securities law. The forward-looking information included in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date of this news release.NEITHER THE TSX-V NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX-V) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.Contacts:For Investor Relations:Matthew O’NeillExecutive Vice President & Chief Financial Officerinvestor@itafos.com713-242-8446For Media:Alliance Advisors IRFatema BhabrawalaDirector, Media Relationsfbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com647-620-5002
2026-03-09 21:40:16

Biofrontera Inc. to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results and Host a Conference Call on March 19, 2026
WOBURN, Mass., March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Biofrontera Inc. (Nasdaq: BFRI) ("Biofrontera” or the "Company”), a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development and commercialization of photodynamic therapy (PDT), announces it will report financial results for the three months and full year ended December 31, 2025 after the close of the U.S. financial markets on Thursday, March 19, 2026. The Company will host a conference call on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss those results, provide a business update and answer questions.Conference Call and Webcast InformationEvent:Biofrontera Inc. Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results and Business Update Conference CallDate:Thursday, March 19, 2026Time:10:00 a.m. ETConference Call:1-888-222-5806 (U.S.)1-412-902-6516 (international)Webcast:Webcast - Biofrontera Inc. 4Q25 and Full Year 2025 Results Conference Callhttps://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=XTq1cPRZ About Biofrontera Inc.Biofrontera is a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company specializing in the treatment of dermatological conditions with a focus on PDT. The Company commercializes the drug-device combination Ameluz® with the RhodoLED® lamp series for PDT of Actinic Keratosis, pre-cancerous skin lesions which may progress to invasive skin cancers1. The Company performs clinical trials to extend the use of the products to treat non-melanoma skin cancers and moderate-to-severe acne. For more information, visit www.biofrontera-us.com and follow Biofrontera on LinkedIn and X.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to Biofrontera’s commercial opportunities and the commercial success of its products. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events. Nevertheless, actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements we make. These risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, include, but are not limited to: the uncertainties inherent in the initiation and conduct of clinical trials; availability and timing of data from clinical trials; whether results of earlier clinical trials or trials of Ameluz® in combination with BF-RhodoLED® and/or RhodoLED® XL in different disease indications or product applications will be indicative of the results of ongoing or future trials; uncertainties associated with regulatory review of clinical trials and applications for marketing approvals; the impact of any extraordinary external events; and other factors that may be disclosed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”), which can be obtained on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. The Company does not plan to update any such forward-looking statements and expressly disclaims any duty to update the information contained in this press release except as required by law.Investor RelationsBen Shamsian646-829-9701shamsian@lythampartners.com1 https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/actinic-keratosis/
2026-03-09 21:40:13

CPS to Host Conference Call on Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings
LAS VEGAS, Nevada, March 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: CPSS) ("CPS” or the "Company”) today announced that it will hold a conference call on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss its fourth quarter 2025 operating results.Those wishing to participate can pre-register for the conference call at the following link https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI939b54a85b184d6b8c4cb82440102b17. Registered participants will receive an email containing conference call details for dial-in options. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the schedule start time. A replay will be available beginning two hours after conclusion of the call for 12 months via the Company’s website at https://ir.consumerportfolio.com/investor-relations.About Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc.Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. is an independent specialty finance company that provides indirect automobile financing to individuals with past credit problems or limited credit histories. We purchase retail installment sales contracts primarily from franchised automobile dealerships secured by late model used vehicles and, to a lesser extent, new vehicles. We fund these contract purchases on a long-term basis primarily through the securitization markets and service the contracts over their lives.Investor Relations ContactDanny Bharwani, Chief Financial Officer949-753-6811
2026-03-09 21:40:09

Global Times: A target of seeking progress while maintaining stability, being proactive and pragmatic
BEIJING, March 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GDP growth of 4.5 percent to 5 percent, while striving for better results in practice - this is one of the main development targets for this year outlined in the Government Work Report. Economic growth targets have long attracted close attention. Over the past three years, China set its GDP growth target at around 5 percent, and the actual growth rate met the goal each year. Against this backdrop, this year's target has drawn particular interest. On Thursday, while taking part in a deliberation with his fellow deputies from the delegation of Jiangsu Province at the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), Chinese President Xi Jinping said that to fulfill the development goals of the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), China must navigate a more complex environment and resolve more deep-seated contradictions. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, urged major provincial economies to redouble efforts to gain experience in analyzing new situations and solving new problems. For the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, why the growth target was set at "4.5 percent to 5 percent"? What such a target implies for effective economic work? Thinking these questions through clearly and thoroughly will help us to fully, deeply, and accurately understand and grasp the strategic arrangements for economic and social development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, as outlined at the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and to unite our efforts and work diligently to achieve a good start to the 15th Five-Year Plan. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent is a proactive and pragmatic goal that grasps the underlying principles, taking into account both domestic economic operations and changes in the external environment, and balancing needs and possibilities. For the target itself, "4.5 percent to 5 percent" is a range-based target. This leaves room to respond to various uncertainties while allowing different regions to set their own growth targets in light of local conditions. It also helps guide all sectors to focus their efforts on achieving high-quality development. Indeed, this is not the first time China has set a range-based target in recent years. In 2016, China set its growth target at 6.5 percent to 7 percent, and in 2019 at 6 percent to 6.5 percent. Actual growth reached 6.8 percent and 6.1 percent in those two years, respectively. The decision to again adopt a target range this year reflects a coordinated consideration of both international and domestic situations, balancing development needs with possibilities, and embodying a pragmatic, fact-based approach. Meanwhile, the sentence in the growth target - "striving for better results in practice" - underscores a proactive and enterprising goal-oriented approach and policy orientation. As long as favorable conditions are fully utilized, achieving better results remains entirely possible. In terms of the general laws of economic development, it is common for growth to stabilize as an economy expands in size. After surpassing 140 trillion yuan in 2025, China's annual economic increment alone is now comparable to the total output of a medium-sized economy. At the same time, the conditions underpinning China's growth such as factor endowments and allocation efficiency are evolving, while continued development faces increasing constraints from resources and the environment. Today, achieving each additional percentage point of GDP growth requires greater efforts and the ability to confront larger challenges. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent fully takes into account changes in both domestic and international situations and the evolving development environment. At present, China's development environment is undergoing profound and complex changes. Domestically, the population aging is deepening, resource and environmental constraints are intensifying, and the transition from old to new growth drivers remains a demanding task. Externally, economic globalization is facing headwinds, geopolitical risks are intensifying, and global economic growth remains sluggish. The IMF forecasts global economic growth of 3.3 percent in 2026. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent reflects a careful consideration of various domestic and international factors, as well as our advantages and potential risks and challenges. It is a realistic goal that fully acknowledges potential difficulties while remaining achievable with sustained effort. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent balances the needs of both current and long-term development. An important indicator of basically realizing socialist modernization is the "per capita GDP reaching the level of a moderately developed country." Working backward from the long-term development goals through 2035 and taking into account the projected population by that time, China's GDP would need to grow at an average annual rate of 4.17 percent during the 15th and 16th Five-Year Plan (2031-35) periods. Considering factors such as resource supply, technological progress, and institutional innovation, China's potential growth rate over the next decade is fully capable of supporting an average annual expansion of about 4.17 percent. Viewed within the broader framework of Chinese modernization, the growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent aligns with medium- and long-term development goals and will help ensure the basic realization of socialist modernization. It represents a proactive yet pragmatic goal - one that aims high while maintaining steady progress - consistent with China's current development stage and the general laws of economic development. For the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan period, the growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent also takes into full account the need to leave policy space for structural adjustment, risk prevention, and reform. It will help stabilize employment, businesses, markets, and expectations, promote both qualitative improvements and reasonable quantitative growth in the economy, maintain social harmony and stability, and secure a solid start to the 15th Five-Year Plan period. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent reflects an approach that seeks progress while maintaining stability and emphasizes improvement in quality and efficiency, helping drive high-quality and sustainable development. While presiding over a group study session of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on January 30, General Secretary Xi noted that the extent of scientific and technological breakthroughs largely determines the speed, breadth and depth of the development of future industries. "Developing new quality productive forces is crucial to driving high-quality development and enhancing economic competitiveness." Achieving high-quality development requires continuous improvements in labor, capital, land, resource and environmental efficiency, as well as a greater contribution from technological progress and higher total factor productivity. Estimates show that in order to basically realize socialist modernization by 2035, China needs to maintain an average annual growth of around 2 percent in total factor productivity. Raising total factor productivity hinges on guiding advanced production factors to cluster around the development of new quality productive forces. Adhering to the overall principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability and focusing on high-quality development, the growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent carries richer meaning. It provides scientific guidance for growth in scale while setting higher requirements for improvements in quality and efficiency, reflecting deeper changes in development philosophy, growth models and sources of momentum. In the first week after the Spring Festival holidays, China achieved a series of breakthroughs in key technologies: original advances in core lithium battery technologies, new progress in space-based biological experiments, and the first large-scale use of drones at offshore oilfields. Some foreign media commented that China, now entering an "innovation boom," is reshaping the global technological landscape. At the ongoing "two sessions," lawmakers and political advisers have also brought a number of encouraging new developments. Huang Sanwen, president of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and an academician of the of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, said proudly that "China's grain, vegetables and meat are now mainly produced using Chinese-developed seeds." Pan Jianwei, executive vice president of the University of Science and Technology of China, noted that China continues to lead globally in quantum communication while remaining among the world's top tier in quantum computing. Zhong Baoshen, chairman and general manager of Longi Green Energy Technology, said with confidence that China's photovoltaic industry has demonstrated strong growth potential and resilience, achieving a shift from catching up to taking the lead. Economic development is a dynamic process. Today's growth cannot be measured with yesterday's yardsticks, nor can today's development be viewed through the lens of the past. Today, the growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent is not merely a speed indicator, nor a simple linear expansion in scale. Achieving it requires fully and faithfully implementing the new development philosophy, balancing improvements in quality with expansion in scale, and continuously generating stronger momentum for Chinese modernization. The growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent can be fully achieved with sustained effort, and even better results can be pursued. The key lies in seeking truth from facts and working diligently to deliver concrete results. The 15th Five-Year Plan period is a critical stage. Viewed from the historical timeline, only ten years remain until China aims to basically realize socialist modernization by 2035. It is therefore necessary to consolidate the foundation and advance on all fronts - achieving visible accomplishments while also undertaking long-term, foundational work. The tighter the timeframe and the more complex the situation becomes, the more important it is to maintain strategic resolve, strengthen confidence in development, and carry forward a spirit of hard work, using the certainty of high-quality development to cope with the uncertainties of the international environment. South China's Guangdong Province, a pioneer, trailblazer and testing ground of reform and opening-up, has ranked first in China in terms of regional GDP for 37 consecutive years. How can it continue to stay at the forefront? Comparing oneself to others makes it hard to escape anxiety over growth rates. Comparing to its own past, however, allows Guangdong to better clarify its goals and find the right direction. For instance, in addressing the "largest shortcoming" of unbalanced urban-rural and regional development, Guangdong has launched the "Hundreds, Thousands and Tens of Thousands Project" tailored to its conditions, promoting stronger counties, invigorated towns, and revitalized villages. Baiyun District, the largest central urban district in Guangzhou by both area and population, has long faced constraints from its urban-rural dual structure in pursuing high-quality development. In Qinghe Village of Renhe Town, 1,800 mu (120 hectares) of scattered farmland have been transformed into Renheyuan, a national 3A-level tourist attraction. In Helong Subdistrict, a low-end village-level industrial park has been upgraded into the design capital of Guangzhou, generating annual revenues of over 90 billion yuan. Since the implementation of the "Hundreds, Thousands and Tens of Thousands Project," all four towns in Baiyun District have entered the list of China's top 250 towns in terms of economic strength, while total collective village income across the district has surpassed 10 billion yuan, ranking first in Guangzhou. The principle of "comparing with oneself" provides an important methodological approach for regions across China to carry out economic work in line with their own conditions. Southwest China's Yunnan Province has remained committed to an eco-priority and green development path, building a strong ecological security barrier in Southwest China. Shanghai is working to accelerate the building of a sci-tech innovation hub with global influence. North China's Shanxi Province is striving to make new strides in transforming its resource-based economy. "Comparing with oneself" means focusing on doing one's own work well and addressing the challenges encountered in one's own development process. During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, China's development environment will undergo profound and complex changes, and economic and social development will face many new issues. "We must seize this window of opportunity to consolidate and expand our advantages, remove bottlenecks and constraints, and shore up weaknesses. In the face of intense international competition, we must gain strategic initiative, advance major tasks that bear on the overall progress of Chinese modernization, and ensure decisive progress toward the basic realization of socialist modernization." Chinese modernization is achieved step by step through hard work. By making our utmost efforts and striving for the best possible results - forging ahead step by step, advancing stage by stage, and accumulating small victories into greater ones - our target will definitely be achieved. This was compiled from an article originally published by the People's Daily on March 6, 2026. https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202603/1356414.shtml
2026-03-07 02:07:00

Reklamo ni Nadia Montenegro laban sa Senate employee, pinanigan ng prosekusyon
Abswelto si Nadia Montenegro sa alegasyong paggamit ng marijuana sa loob ng Senate of the Philippines noong August 12, 2025, ayon sa abodago niyang si Atty. Maggie Abraham-Garduque.Naghain si Montenegro ng reklamo sa Pasay Prosecutor's Office laban sa Senate Sergeant-at-Arms officer na si Victor G. Patelo, kaugnay ng Unjust Vexation at paglabag sa Safe Spaces Act (Republic Act No. 11313) na kilala rin bilang “Bawal Bastos” Law.Ayon sa resolusyon, pinaghinalaang naninigarilyo ng marijuana si Montenegro, na noo'y Political Affairs Officer ni Senator Robin Padilla, dahil umano sa “unusual odor” mula sa palikuran na ginamit ng aktres, na mariing na pinabulaanan niya.Napilitan si Montenegro na ipakita sa security personnel ang laman ng kanyang bag at bulsa na naglalaman ng vape.Binalaan naman ng nagsumite mismo ng incident report na si Patelo na maaaring may "naiinggit" sa aktres. Pero tinuloy pa rin nito ang paghain ng ulat, kung saan pinangalanan niya si Montenegro bilang subject.Dahil dito, sinabi ng kampo ni Montenegro na nagdulot ang insidente ng trauma at matinding pinsala sa kanyang reputasyon.Pahayag ni Atty. Abraham-Garduque, "Congratulations Nadia Montenegro Pla. This is an early gift for you before Women's Day on March 8."The resolution categorically stated that despite the fact that he knew that you were not smoking marijuana in the Senate of the Philippines on August 12, 2025, the respondent made an incident report which became the basis of the widespread false news against you last year not only to your extreme damage and prejudice but to your family as well."This is a testament that albeit you are a woman, you can fight so that YOUR TRUTH can be heard."I know what you have gone through and I am very happy to be your lawyer so that this vindication will be given and finally be given to you.“This revelation of her truth is the start of healing for Nadia." Kasunod ng isyu, nag-resign si Nadia sa kanyang posisyon bilang miyembro ng staff ni Senator Padilla para maprotektahan ang kanyang mental health at kapakanan ng kanyang mga anak.Aniya, "My decision to resign should not be misconstrued as an admission of guilt—it is not. Rather, it is a demonstration of my deep respect for the Senate and Senator Padilla's office, so that this issue does not cause further distraction or harm. To prevent this baseless issue from growing any further, I would rather remove myself from the spotlight and allow the Senate to focus on its important work."Bago ang kanyang pagbibitiw, hiniling kay Montenegro na mag-file ng leave of absence.Samantala, tingnan ang ilang celebrities na nadawit noon sa isyu ng droga:
2026-03-07 02:04:00

GSIS offices to stay open on Fridays
State-run Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said it will maintain five-day operations at its frontline service counters even as the state pension fund shifts to a four-day on-site workweek to bolster national energy conservation efforts.Beginning March 9, GSIS employees will transition to a temporary special work arrangement where personnel report to offices from Monday to Thursday, with Fridays designated as a mandatory work-from-home day. The adjustment follows a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aimed at mitigating the impact of rising global fuel and electricity costs.GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said in a statement that the agency has established specific shifts for frontline staff to ensure the Lobby and Pensioners Lounge remain open to the public for the full workweek. The measure remains in effect until further notice as the government seeks to curb power consumption across state-owned and controlled corporations.The shift toward hybrid work comes amid heightened volatility in global energy markets, largely driven by ongoing conflict in the Middle East. By reducing the physical footprint of its workforce on Fridays, the GSIS expects a significant drop in its operational overhead. Veloso noted that the agency’s existing investment in renewable energy will further insulate it from high utility costs during the transition.“With this setup, our energy consumption on Fridays will be practically free because of our existing solar panels,” Veloso said, adding that the move balances the need for environmental sustainability with the agency’s mandate to serve its members.While the majority of the administrative workforce moves to remote operations once a week, the pension fund emphasized that all offices remain responsible for continuous service delivery. The GSIS currently manages the social security benefits of government employees, including life insurance, retirement, and disability programs.
2026-03-07 02:04:00

PrintKK Partners with Etsy, Giving Sellers Access to Print-on-Demand Fulfillment Across Nearly 200 Countries
Etsy sellers can now connect to PrintKK's global production network, AI design tools, and 48-hour fulfillment-launching custom products with zero inventoryLOS ANGELES, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- PrintKK (www.printkk.com), a global print on demand platform, today announced its integration with Etsy, enabling sellers on the marketplace to create, customize, and sell products globally without holding inventory. The integration is now live and connects Etsy sellers to PrintKK's fulfillment network spanning nearly 200 countries.Through the integration, Etsy sellers connect their shops directly to PrintKK's dashboard. When a customer places an order, PrintKK handles production, packaging, and shipping-with most orders dispatched within 48 hours from fulfillment centers located across multiple continents. Sellers pay only when an order is placed, eliminating upfront costs.PrintKK offers over 1,000 customizable product categories tailored to Etsy's creative marketplace, including apparel, accessories, home decor, light fixtures, rugs and mats, and furniture. The platform supports bulk product uploads and includes an AI design tool that generates production-ready artwork in seconds, helping sellers quickly test new product ideas and respond to seasonal trends."Etsy sellers thrive on originality, and that's exactly what print on demand enables," said William Ning, CEO of PrintKK. "With this integration, a seller can go from design concept to live Etsy listing in under an hour-no sourcing, no warehousing, no minimum orders. We've seen early partners expand their catalogs by 3-5x within the first month."The integration automates order routing, production tracking, and shipping updates between Etsy and PrintKK. Sellers manage their entire workflow-from design creation to fulfillment monitoring-through a single dashboard, reducing the operational complexity of running a multi-product Etsy shop.PrintKK also integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, Walmart, eBay, BigCommerce, and Square, allowing sellers to manage cross-platform operations from one account.The Etsy integration is available immediately to all PrintKK users at no additional cost. Sellers can get started at printkk.com/integration/etsy.About PrintKKPrintKK is a global print-on-demand platform that enables e-commerce sellers to design, produce, and ship customized products worldwide. The platform offers 1,000+ product categories-spanning apparel, home decor, lighting, rugs, furniture, and accessories-with AI-assisted design tools and a production network that ships most orders within 48 hours. PrintKK integrates with Etsy, Shopify, WooCommerce, and other major marketplaces. For more information, visit www.printkk.com.CONTACT:Eve Smithpress@printkk.com
2026-03-05 15:29:20

ATOTO P10 Pro Debuts on Kickstarter with AI Vision Safety Guard and Dual 1080p Recording
HONG KONG, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ATOTO announced the launch of P10 Pro on Kickstarter. Positioned as an AI-powered driving and parking safety display built on Android system, P10 Pro pairs a large wireless CarPlay/Android Auto screen with ATOTO-developed AI Vision, dual-channel 1080P recording, low-power parking protection, and cloud-based evidence tools. Dispatch is scheduled to begin in April 2026, with deliveries expected to start in May.Click here to view the official campaign page— Lock in Early-Bird Perks"P10 Pro is built for drivers who want more than a screen," said Peter, general manager at ATOTO. "We combined a full Android platform with AI vision safety, true dual-channel recording, and cloud tools that help drivers document what happened and stay connected to their vehicle—on the road, when parked, and when away."P10 Pro, A Cloud-Connected Portable Driving HubAI-powered safety for driving and parkingFor daily driving, P10 Pro supports front and cabin cameras recording simultaneously in 1080P, with front-camera WDR and strong-light suppression, plus IR night vision for the in-cabin view. Collision-triggered emergency recording helps surface and preserve key clips after an impact. For critical moments, Instant Golden Hour Emergency Notification can send key images and location details to preset emergency contacts.For parking, P10 Pro introduces Low-Power Parking Guard, designed to extend monitoring for up to 72 hours. When paired with optional connectivity, drivers can use Remote LiveView to check on the cabin and surroundings from a phone.Parking Monitor & Live ViewATOTO-developed AI Vision and in-car AI assistanceATOTO-developed AI Vision adds practical, on-screen cues designed to reduce overlooked risks: fun object and car-type recognition, road-condition hints, and cabin hints for kids and important items. P10 Pro also supports natural-language Q&A with AI, along with driving reminders such as low-fuel prompts and gas suggestions when connected to OBD data.Cloud Witness: lock and upload evidence when it mattersCloud Witness is built for drivers who want a fast, intentional way to protect their rights. Drivers can lock important footage and upload it to the cloud, creating a ready record that can be reviewed, organized, or shared when needed.Optional LTE connectivity with multi‐path networkingP10 Pro supports multiple network paths—including optional LTE (4G SIM / Cloud SIM), dual‐band Wi-Fi, and tethering—to keep cloud features and remote access available across different routines. This connectivity foundation also supports additional features such as live tracking, geofence alerts, and trip logs with GPS tracks and playback.How P10 Pro differs from typical portable CarPlay screensMany entry-level portable CarPlay screens focus on mirroring and basic inputs on lightweight RTOS/Linux platforms. P10 Pro takes a different approach with a full Android platform and an integrated safety workflow that combines capture, AI awareness, and cloud tools.Full Android platform designed for richer app capability and performance beyond basic mirroring workflows.Native dual-channel 1080P recording (front + cabin) with WDR front camera and IR night vision in-cabin.Unified Bluetooth Audio (UBA) workflow designed to reduce audio routing friction across daily use.Cloud tools including Cloud Witness, Remote LiveView, and Golden Hour emergency notification for evidence and remote awareness.BLE accessory ecosystem and centralized control for supported devices, plus OTA updates.Campaign details and availabilityThe P10 Pro Kickstarter campaign launched on February 25, 2026 and is scheduled to run through April 11, 2026. Limited early-bird tiers start at:9-inch model: $499.99 (MSRP $833.99; save up to 40% )10.25-inch model: $549.99 (MSRP $916.99; save up to 40%)Dispatch is planned for April 2026, with deliveries expected to begin in May. Early‐bird perks are limited—backers are encouraged to visit the campaign page to secure available tiers.Campaign page-Get Early‐Bird PerksAbout ATOTOFounded in 2015, ATOTO is a global automotive electronics brand specializing in intelligent in-car infotainment and safety solutions. With a strong focus on research, design, and vertically integrated manufacturing, ATOTO develops Android-based car systems, AI-enabled driving tools, and connected vehicle technologies for drivers worldwide. The company operates under a direct factory-to-customer model, delivering continuous software updates and long-term after-sales support across international markets.PR Inquiries:pr@atotoglobal.com
2026-03-05 15:29:10

Inside HSBC Premier’s ‘World of Opportunity’ at The Peninsula Manila
Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) Premier turned some of the most recognizable spaces inside The Peninsula Manila into immersive “worlds” for its top clients, transforming the hotel into a series of environments built around the priorities of modern global living.The Consevatory, Salon de Ning, and several of the hotel’s function rooms were reimagined as curated spaces reflecting the pillars of HSBC Premier’s offerings: health, travel, international connectivity, and wealth. The event, held on February 23, 2025, introduced the bank’s “Worlds of Opportunity” concept that frames premium banking not just as financial services, but as support that extends into mobility, healthcare, and long-term financial planning.**carousel[84059,84057]**A world of healthA Tai Chi demonstration beckoned slowly across the Garcia Villa and Balagtas function rooms as a harpist’s melodies filled the space, setting a calm rhythm for the evening’s opening experience.HSBC framed the environment as its “World of Health,” centered on the bank’s partnership with Allianz through the Allianz Well program.Through the program, HSBC Premier clients may access health insurance coverage with an annual plan limit of up to ₱100 million for in-patient hospitalization. Clients also gain access to leading medical facilities in the Philippines and worldwide, with the option to include coverage in the United States.**carousel[84050,84054,84062,84058,84056,84061]**A world of travelAcross the hotel’s glass-roofed Conservatory, an LED cube installation flickered with images of destinations from different countries. At the “World of Travel”, the bank showcased its Premier Travel Card which mirrors that lifestyle. Offering airport lounge access in more than 1,800 cities worldwide up to ten times a year, along with complimentary airport transfers and meet-and-greet services. Travel insurance coverage of up to $100,000 provides additional protection.Cardholders also benefit from special flight and hotel offers, a low 0.99 percent foreign exchange rate on overseas spending, and four times bonus points on international purchases, along with discounts at duty-free stores.**carousel[84065,84051,84055,84053,84060]**A world of internationalAt the Upper Lobby, a digital installation titled “Wall Alive” displayed the mechanics of HSBC’s global banking network.The installation introduced the next stage of the program: “World of International,” highlighting services designed for clients whose financial lives stretch across borders.Through HSBC’s Global View and Global Transfers features, customers can manage HSBC accounts worldwide with a single log-on and move funds between globally linked accounts in real time and free of charge through the HSBC Philippines mobile app.**carousel[84052,84048,84063,84064]**A world of wealthFinally, inside Salon de Ning, an interactive installation drew guests around a table displaying the investment capabilities available through HSBC’s network.The space represented HSBC Premier’s “World of Wealth,” which focuses on helping clients manage assets across markets.Premier clients gain access to multi-currency wealth solutions supported by insights from HSBC’s international research teams.“We understand what success means for our customers, and that includes having the freedom to grow, explore, protect what matters most, and most importantly, the freedom to belong anywhere in the world,” said Pramoth Rajendran, HSBC Philippines head of International Wealth and Premier Banking.
2026-03-05 15:29:00

VEVOR Partners with Houston Rockets, Marks Strategic U.S. Expansion with Houston Flagship Store
HOUSTON, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- VEVOR, a global leader in home improvement solutions, recently announced its first-ever partnership in professional sports with the NBA's Houston Rockets. As part of this collaboration, VEVOR will appear at home games and community events, forging deeper connections with Rockets fans and Houston residents. The partnership represents a key pillar of VEVOR's U.S. localization strategy and underscores the brand's long-term commitment to both the city and the broader U.S. market.VEVOR x HOUSTON ROCKETSBuilding Community Through Shared ValuesVEVOR's brand strategy closely aligns with the spirit of the Houston Rockets and the city itself. On the court, the Rockets have long exemplified excellence, resilience, and teamwork, while off the court, Houston embodies a culture of exploration, hard work, and ambition-from its heritage as "Space City" to its vibrant, thriving community.This shared mindset connects seamlessly with VEVOR's mission to empower creators, professionals, and DIY enthusiasts through tools, solutions, and community-driven programs that inspire innovation, problem-solving, and growth. Houston also serves as the launchpad for VEVOR's first global exploration of an omnichannel "online + offline" retail model, reinforcing the city's strategic significance in the brand's global expansion.HOUSTON ROCKETS x VEVOR "We are honored to partner with the Houston Rockets. The Rockets embody a relentless pursuit of excellence-an ethos that shapes how we build our products and support the creators and small businesses we serve. This collaboration goes beyond sponsorship; it reflects our long-term commitment to Houston. By bringing innovative tools and practical solutions to the community, we aim to help Houston's makers and entrepreneurs turn ideas into impact and build a stronger ecosystem of creativity and opportunity." said Gavin Wu, Brand Director at VEVOR.Launching VEVOR's Physical Retail Presence in the U.S.As part of its broader U.S. retail expansion, VEVOR is opening its first global flagship store in Houston, which began soft opening in February and will officially celebrate its grand opening in March.The store features a BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In Store) model, seamlessly integrating online convenience with in-store accessibility. Customers can purchase products online and retrieve them in-store, offering flexibility, efficiency, and a streamlined shopping experience.A Hands-on experience zone invites visitors to explore and test tools and solutions in real-world settings, bridging the gap between online research and tactile engagement. This interactive space caters to a broad audience-DIY enthusiasts, professional builders, and small business owners-helping them make informed decisions while experiencing products firsthand.Beyond retail, the store serves as a hub for learning, discovery, and collaboration, reinforcing VEVOR's mission to empower home creators, problem-solvers, and local innovators, and supporting the growth of Houston's home improvement community.The flagship store will officially open at 10951 Farm to Market 1960 Road W, Houston on March 9, 2026 with special appearances by Houston Rockets representatives. Join us for a day of celebration, exploration, and hands-on experiences!About VEVORVEVOR is a global home improvement brand that empowers home creators, who actively reshape living spaces to express their inner pursuits, finding joy in turning visions into reality with their own hands to upgrade spaces with pro-level gear at fair prices. From backyard makeovers to apartment innovations, VEVOR delivers uncompromised quality through vertical integration - combining precision engineering with the joy of making.Founded in 2007 as an eBay seller, VEVOR began selling on Amazon in 2013 and launched vevor.com in 2020. The brand unveiled its refreshed identity in 2025. Today, VEVOR operates in over 50 countries, with a network of 200+ global warehouses and a catalog of over 15,000 products spanning tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement solutions.The brand's promise is built on four pillars: professional-grade performance, unexpected value, complete home ecosystem coverage, and uncompromising quality. This commitment is reflected in its 90% customer satisfaction rate, supported by 24/7 assistance and a 30-day hassle-free return policy.For more information, visit www.vevor.com or search "vevor" on Amazon.Media Contact: media@vevor.com
2026-03-05 15:28:51

The world's largest brain research prize awarded for groundbreaking discoveries on how we sense touch and pain
The Brain Prize 2026 is awarded to Professors David Ginty (US) and Patrik Ernfors (Sweden) for their pioneering discoveries on how the nervous system detects and processes touch and pain. Their work has rewritten textbooks and opened new avenues for the development of targeted treatments for conditions such as chronic pain and hypersensitivity to touch.COPENHAGEN, Denmark, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The somatosensory system provides us with the sense of our own body and its physical interactions with the world. Our sense of touch enables us to perceive a passing breeze, feel the shape and texture of objects in our hands or the physical contact of others. It provides crucial sensory feedback that controls how we move our body and respond to the outside world. The somatosensory system also encompasses our ability to feel pain. Pain can be caused by mechanical stimuli, heat and noxious chemicals. While unpleasant, it is essential for our survival, acting as a warning system that protects us from what is harmful. Disruptions in our normal ability to sense touch and pain can lead to severe and debilitating conditions, including hypersensitivity to touch - observed in many developmental disorders - and chronic pain which affects millions of people worldwide.HM The King of Denmark, patron of The Brain Prize, attending the prize ceremony 2025.Although touch and pain have been studied for more than 150 years, Patrik Ernfors (Karolinska Institutet, Sweden) and David Ginty (Harvard Medical School, US) have revolutionised the field by identifying how nerve cells in the skin transform painful, thermal and mechanical stimulation, such as stroking, vibration, or indentation, into neural signals. They have further mapped how these signals are transmitted to and processed within the spinal cord and then sent to the brain where the perception of – and the emotional and behavioral reactions to – our interactions with the physical world are created.Together, their discoveries have rewritten textbook principles of somatosensation and provided the foundation for a new generation of targeted interventions for pain and somatosensory dysfunction based on specific cell types and neural pathways.Professor Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg is Chair of The Brain Prize Selection Committee and explains the reasoning for awarding Professors David Ginty and Patrik Ernfors the Brain Prize 2026:"Somatosensation defines the integrity of the body and the boundary between the body and the world and is thus crucial for our sense of physical self and our interactions with the world around us. The ability to detect and interpret touch, pain, itch, and temperature depends on an extraordinary diversity of peripheral sensory neurons, supporting cells, and precisely organised spinal cord and brainstem circuits. By discovering and categorising distinct sensory neuron types, linking them to specific end organs and pathways, and providing novel widely used genetic and molecular tools, their work has created a blueprint for understanding normal touch and for pinpointing where things go wrong in disorders such as chronic pain, and hyper- and hyposensitivity that may be associated with diseases of the nervous system."On behalf of the Lundbeck Foundation, CEO Lene Skole extends her warmest congratulations to the two prize recipients:"Our ability to feel touch and pain is perhaps the most underappreciated of our senses. It gives us our sense of self and of our interactions with the world. Without it we would feel disembodied. This is hard to imagine and to really appreciate how profound it is, we need only look at what happens when the sense of touch and pain goes wrong. The fundamental new insights into the neuroscience of touch and pain provided by Patrik Ernfors and David Ginty are truly remarkable and carry hope for patients living with disorders such as chronic pain. It is a true pleasure to award these outstanding scientists with The Brain Prize 2026."MORE INFObrainprize.org
2026-03-05 15:28:41

The SBB Research Group Foundation Sponsors World Wildlife Fund
CHICAGO, March 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- World Wildlife Fund collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program. The SBB Research Group Foundation supports the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) with a continued partnership dedicated to expanding ongoing conservation efforts for the black-footed ferret, one of North America’s most endangered species. This year’s contribution builds on the SBB Research Group Foundation’s previous support and helps WWF broaden the reach of its disease mitigation strategy across additional prairie dog colonies.In 2024, WWF focused on advancing drone delivery systems for vaccine-laced bait pellets, a critical tool for combating sylvatic plague in prairie dog populations, the primary food source for black-footed ferrets. With the 2025 partnership, WWF is now able to apply these upgraded technologies across a larger habitat range, allowing vaccination efforts to reach new sites that were previously inaccessible. Expanding this work is critical to stabilizing prairie dog numbers and, in turn, improving survival for the black-footed ferret."WWF has proven how targeted vaccine delivery can protect both prairie dogs and the ferrets that rely on them,” said Erin Noonan, a volunteer with the SBB Research Group Foundation. "This year’s support is about helping and strengthening the long-term health of this fragile ecosystem.”The SBB Research Group Foundation values the opportunity to continue supporting WWF’s conservation initiatives.To learn more about WWF and their efforts to save the black-footed ferret, please visit:WWF Black-Footed FerretAbout the SBB Research Group Foundation The SBB Research Group Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that furthers the philanthropic mission of SBB Research Group LLC (SBBRG), a Chicago-based investment management firm led by Sam Barnett, Ph.D., and Matt Aven. The Foundation provides grants to support ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies. In addition, the Foundation sponsors the SBBRG STEM Scholarship, which supports students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees. Contact: Erin Noonan Organization: SBB Research Group FoundationEmail: grants@sbbrg.org Address: 450 Skokie Blvd, Building 600, Northbrook, IL 60062 United States Phone: 1-847-656-1111 Website: https://www.sbbrg.org
2026-03-05 15:26:26

Duke Robotics Announces 25-for-1 Reverse Stock Split
Reverse Split Intended to Increase Per-Share Trading Price; May Support a Potential Exchange UplistingFollowing the Reverse Stock Split, the Company's ticker symbol on the OTCQB is expected to trade under the symbol DUKRD for 20 trading daysFort Lauderdale, FL, March 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Duke Robotics Corp. (OTCQB: DUKR) ("Duke Robotics” or the "Company”), a leader in advanced robotics and drone-based solutions for civilian and defense markets, today announced that a reverse stock split of the Company’s issued and outstanding common shares, par value $0.0001 per share (the "Common Stock”) at a ratio of 25-for-1 (the "Reverse Stock Split") is expected to be implemented at market open on March 6, 2026. The Company's Common Stock will begin trading on the OTCQB on a post-split basis at the market open on March 6, 2026. Following the Reverse Stock Split, the Company's ticker symbol on the OTCQB is expected to trade under the symbol DUKRD for 20 trading days, in accordance with OTC Marketplace rules.The Reverse Stock Split was approved by the Company’s Board of Directors and by the Company’s stockholders. The primary purpose of the Reverse Stock Split is to increase the per-share market price of the Company’s Common Stock, which is intended to support a potential uplisting to a national securities exchange, subject to the Company meeting applicable listing requirements.The Company will trade under a new CUSIP Number, 903448207. The Reverse Stock Split will become effective upon the filing of a Certificate of Change with the Secretary of State of Nevada.After giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split of the Company’s Common Stock, each twenty-five (25) Common Stock will be combined into one (1) Common Stock, such that the Company’s 56,302,147 Common Stock outstanding will be reduced to approximately 2,252,086 Common Stock outstanding, subject to the treatment of fractional shares. The total number of authorized Common Stock will not be reduced and will remain at 350,000,000 shares following the effectiveness of the Reverse Stock Split. No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Reverse Stock Split as any fractional stock resulting from the Reverse Stock Split will be rounded up to the nearest whole stock on a per stockholder basis.The Reverse Stock Split is not expected to change any stockholder’s proportional ownership interest, except for minimal effects that may result from the treatment of fractional shares. Registered stockholders holding shares in book-entry form need not take any action, and stockholders holding shares through a broker or nominee should contact their broker or nominee with any questions. Proportionate adjustments will be made to the exercise prices and the number of shares underlying the Company’s outstanding options, warrants and other equity-based awards, in accordance with their terms.Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, will act as the exchange agent for the Reverse Stock Split. Please contact Equiniti Trust Company, LLC for further information at 919-744-2722.About Duke RoboticsDuke Robotics Corp. (OTCQB: DUKR) develops advanced stabilization and autonomous robotic drone systems for both civilian and defense markets. The Company’s Insulator Cleaning Drone (IC Drone) is a first-of-its-kind, drone-enabled system for cleaning and monitoring high-voltage electric utility insulators. Leveraging Duke’s technologies, the IC Drone provides a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective alternative method. In defense, through a collaboration agreement with Elbit Systems Land Ltd. ("Elbit”), the Bird of Prey weapons drone system is an agile, fully stabilized remote weapon system designed for non-line-of-sight and stand-off engagements, marketed by Elbit under the brand name Bird of Prey (formerly known as TIKAD). For additional Company information, please visit https://dukeroboticsys.com and follow us on Twitter (X) and LinkedIn.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements. Words such as "future" and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as "will," are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are based on our beliefs, assumptions, and information currently available to us. For example, the Company uses forward-looking statements when discussing the expected timing and effects of the Reverse Stock Split, including when the Company’s Common Stock is expected to begin trading on a split-adjusted basis, the anticipated impact of the Reverse Stock Split on the market price of the Company’s Common Stock, and the Company’s plans regarding a future potential uplisting to a national securities exchange, subject to the Company meeting applicable listing requirements. Our actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied due to known or unknown risks and uncertainties. These include, but are not limited to, risks related to the successful market adoption of our technologies, the continued development and refinement of our technology, our ability to effectively collaborate with Elbit Systems, fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, operational challenges associated with marketing activities in new markets, economic conditions that may affect defense spending and infrastructure investment, geopolitical factors that could impact business operations, regulatory challenges in various regions, and competition from technological advances. For additional information on these and other risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the discussion under "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and any subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.Company Contact:Duke Robotics Corp.Yossef Balucka, CEOinvest@dukeroboticsys.comCapital Markets & IR:Arx Investor RelationsNorth American Equities Deskduke@arxhq.com
2026-03-05 15:26:22

Precision Assembly Chooses TAB Bank for a $2.5 Million Asset-Based Lending Facility to Accelerate Growth
OGDEN, Utah, March 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TAB Bank closed a $2.5 million asset-based lending facility, which includes a $1.5 million inventory subline for Precision Assembly, Inc. The capital provided from this credit facility will create opportunities for Precision Assembly to accelerate growth, while advancing their goals of providing quality parts and components for their customers.Based in Utah, Precision Assembly is a contract electronics manufacturing services provider specializing in printed circuit board assembly and related engineering support through design, layout, prototyping, and surface-mount assembly for their customers in the medical, dental, education, transportation, law enforcement, industrial, mining, and farming industries."TAB Bank was wonderful to work with. They were very attentive to our financing needs and provided great solutions for this credit facility. They are very friendly and I would recommend them as a trusted banking partner,” stated Mauro Carlini, CFO of Precision Assembly.TAB Bank offers customized financial solutions for small to mid-sized businesses across various industries. Services include asset-based lending, equipment financing and working capital solutions tailored to help companies scale and thrive.About TAB BankAt TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to building value in all we do through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 27 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience. For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.Contact Information:Trevor MorrisDirector of Marketing801-710-6318trevor.morris@tabbank.com
2026-03-05 15:26:15

Crypto News: Pepeto Announces Major Advancement as Binance Launch Nears As Cardano Target $10
Dubai, UAE, March 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pepeto just confirmed a major advancement in platform development as the presale crosses $7.43 million raised with demand accelerating faster than any previous stage. Copycat tokens are launching daily on decentralized exchanges, a pattern that only appears in crypto news when something big is about to go live. What makes this project special is how it combines meme culture and real utility into one ecosystem, giving both casual buyers and institutional investors a reason to invest in the same token. Pepeto is building tools that represent a genuine upgrade over what Cardano delivered, and this article breaks down why while examining whether Cardano can realistically reach $10.Crypto News: Can Cardano Reach $10 and Why Pepeto's Innovation Tells a Different Story for Smart InvestorsCardano earned its reputation as one of the most academically rigorous blockchains in the industry, built on peer reviewed research with a focus on scalability that attracted a loyal following. As CoinCodex reported, their algorithm does not see Cardano reaching $10, with the highest projected price sitting at $1.25 even out to 2049. As Benzinga covered, most analysts project ADA between $0.30 and $0.80 through 2026, and the $10 target would require a 3,500% gain the fundamentals do not support. The vision was strong but execution fell short because adoption stayed limited and the ecosystem never attracted the developer activity needed to compete.That gap is exactly where Pepeto enters with infrastructure that does what Cardano promised but could not deliver at scale. History proves that projects solving fundamental crypto problems at presale prices deliver returns no large cap can match, the same way Ethereum rewarded early believers at $0.30, and the same way Solana turned presale buyers into millionaires before the market caught on. The difference between wealth creation and regret in crypto is not intelligence or luck, it is the vision to act before the crowd validates what you already see.Why Both Meme Coin Communities and Institutional Capital Are Investing in Pepeto at the Same TimePepeto achieved something no other project in this cycle has managed, which is attracting both meme coin communities and serious institutional capital into the same presale at the same time despite those groups having completely different reasons for investing. The meme coin side sees Pepeto's branding as the god of frogs as a cultural evolution of what made Pepe one of the most recognized symbols in all of crypto, and the redemption narrative built into the project's identity has turned heads across every major meme coin community. But what the large wallet investors see is entirely different, because Pepeto is building a complete trading platform where all cryptocurrencies can be exchanged on a single secure system with fees so low they barely register, instant cross chain transfers through a dedicated bridge, and zero tax swaps across Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana.The meme appeal will push the price high after launch because viral culture is the fastest discovery engine in crypto, and when the initial excitement settles, the infrastructure underneath keeps demand growing because traders actually need what Pepeto built. That combination has never existed before at a presale entry this early, which is why analysts are calling Pepeto the biggest project of 2026, and saying the biggest project rather than the biggest meme coin is not a mistake, because clearly this is far more than a meme coin. Dual security audits from SolidProof and Coinsult verify the smart contracts, and 211% APY staking rewards compound daily for every holder while the Binance listing draws closer with each milestone the project passes.The Logic Behind Pepeto's Acceleration Makes the Analyst Predictions Impossible to IgnoreNow the picture becomes clear. The innovation behind Pepeto, the way the team wove meme culture into a real trading ecosystem, and the speed of every milestone all reveal a team that knows exactly how to build for maximum impact. Bitcoin bounced from around $65,000 to above $69,000 today showing early signs of recovery, and every day that passes brings the bull run closer while the presale window shrinks. Analysts calling Pepeto the biggest success story of 2026 are following logic anyone can see, because a project with viral energy, real infrastructure, and a Binance listing on the horizon does not stay at presale prices for long. Visit the Pepeto official website and secure your position before this opportunity becomes a headline you read about instead of a return you earned.Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The PresaleFAQsCan Cardano realistically reach $10 in this cycle?It’s hard for cardano to reach $10 as most analysts project Cardano trading between $0.30 and $0.80 in 2026. Early stage projects like Pepeto offer significantly higher return potential from presale entry.What is the latest crypto news about Pepeto and Binance?Pepeto confirmed major tool advancement with $7.43 million raised and a Binance listing approaching. Demand is accelerating with copycat tokens appearing daily, a signal that launch is near.Why are institutional investors buying a meme coin like Pepeto?Institutional investors buying a meme coin like Pepeto because it combines meme culture with a full trading platform, cross chain bridge, and zero tax swaps. Visit the Pepeto official website for ecosystem and staking details.CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACTContact: Dani BonocciEmail: info@pepeto.ioWebsite: https://pepeto.io/Phone: +971586738991
2026-03-02 19:19:48

Stellantis Publishes Agenda for 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders
Stellantis Publishes Agenda for 2026 Annual General Meeting of ShareholdersAMSTERDAM, March 2, 2026 - Stellantis N.V. today announced the publication of the agenda and explanatory notes for its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM), which is scheduled for April 14, 2026, in Amsterdam.The terms of office of John Elkann, as executive director, and Robert Peugeot and Henri de Castries, as non-executive directors, will conclude at the end of the AGM. John Elkann and Robert Peugeot are proposed for re-election in the respective roles upon binding nomination by Exor N.V. and Établissements Peugeot Frères S.A. / Peugeot Invest S.A., respectively. In addition, the Stellantis Board of Directors, based on the recommendation of the ESG Committee, has resolved to propose the re-election of Henri de Castries as non-executive director and the appointment of Juergen Esser as an additional non-executive director. If elected, all proposed directors will serve a two-year term.Juergen Esser brings strong experience and clear ambition to deliver industry-leading value creation, supported by digitally enabled business models. He holds a Diploma in Political Economies from the Friedrich-Wilhelms-University in Bonn, Germany, and currently serves as Deputy CEO and Chief Financial, Technology & Data Officer at Danone. The Board believes that his appointment will further enhance its collective expertise and operational effectiveness.The official notice of the AGM, along with explanatory notes and related materials - including biography of the non-executive director proposed to join the Board and the voting instructions - is now available in the Investors section of Stellantis’ corporate website at www.stellantis.com. Shareholders may also request a printed copy of these materials, including Stellantis’ audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, using the contact information provided below.# # #About StellantisStellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA / Euronext Milan: STLAM / Euronext Paris: STLAP) is a leading global automaker, dedicated to giving its customers the freedom to choose the way they move, embracing the latest technologies and creating value for all its stakeholders. Its unique portfolio of iconic and innovative brands includes Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, FIAT, Jeep®, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, Vauxhall, Free2move and Leasys. For more information, visit www.stellantis.com.@StellantisStellantisStellantisStellantis For more information, contact: communications@stellantis.comAttachmentEN-20260302-Stellantis-2026-AGM-Agenda
2026-03-02 19:19:40

Instead Achieves 67% of All Government Tax Filing Approvals, On Track for Complete Nationwide Coverage in Weeks
AI Startup Accomplishes Regulatory Feat "No Company Has Done in Decades"SAN FRANCISCO, March 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Instead has secured 67% of all required government approvals for electronic and print tax filing across federal, state, and municipal jurisdictions, with over 85% of applications submitted and complete nationwide coverage expected within weeks.The AI-powered platform has built the first autonomous AI tax agent capable of true end-to-end preparation and filing across all major entity types (Forms 1040, 1041, 1120, 1120-S, and 1065), positioning the company to disrupt the $15 billion tax preparation industry."No company has accomplished these approvals in decades," said Andrew Argue, CEO and founder of Instead. "Even if another company started today with hundreds of millions of dollars, it would take them years to get through the regulatory approvals our team has achieved."Instead's "zero-touch tax return" represents the industry's first truly autonomous workflow. The AI system takes every document from taxpayers, extracts all data, creates work papers, populates the return, and reviews it for accuracy, with human reviewers signing off in minutesThe comprehensive approval scope creates a direct challenge to established platforms like CCH, GoSystem, UltraTax, Lacerte, and ProConnect. Unlike existing AI tax tools that handle only partial workflows, Instead's unified system provides complete automation while eliminating the need for multiple software licenses."If you're a firm that's tried AI products that only do part of the process, they prepare work papers but don't populate the return, or require you to keep your legacy tax software, we want to talk," Argue said.Instead is actively recruiting beta firms for product rollout later this year, with major partnership announcements expected soon. The company is targeting current users of legacy platforms ahead of the next renewal cycle.For more information, visit www.instead.com.About InsteadInstead (www.instead.com) is an AI-driven tax platform that helps individuals, businesses, and tax professionals discover, implement, and document tax strategies with confidence. The first platform in decades approved by the IRS to e-file across all major entity types, Instead has introduced the zero-touch tax return - an autonomous AI workflow that end-to-end prepares and files returns. The company has secured 67% of all required government approvals, with full nationwide coverage expected shortly.Media Contact:Olivia RodiManager of Marketing, Insteadolivia@instead.com
2026-03-02 19:18:55

Jo Malone London introduces Georgia May and Lizzy Jagger as global brand ambassadors for English Pear
LONDON, March 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The British fragrance and lifestyle house celebrates English Pear & Freesia and English Pear & Sweet Pea with British models Georgia May and Lizzy Jagger. Hailing from rock and roll roots, Georgia May and Lizzy have unique individual styles and personalities, reflected in their unique choice of scents. English Pear & Freesia and English Pear & Sweet Pea offer two takes on the perfect pear, both featuring this timeless, quintessential Jo Malone London ingredient. The British fragrance and lifestyle house celebrates English Pear & Freesia and English Pear & Sweet Pea with British models Georgia May and Lizzy Jagger. Georgia May Jagger Georgia May began modelling at a young age, featuring in campaigns for a variety of global beauty and fashion brands. She launched her own skincare brand MAY Botanicals in 2023. She co-owns hair dye brand Bleach London and is the Wellbeing Ambassador for the British Beauty Council. Lizzy Jagger Lizzy first appeared on the catwalk in 1998 and has been modelling ever since, representing many designers at fashion weeks and featuring in campaigns for global brands. She is an advocate for women's rights and worked on the award-winning documentary Equal Means Equal with Kamala Lopez, pushing for Women's Equality Day to become Women's Equality Week. The campaign Experience the sunlit orchard. Sister scents, one bond and an English pear in every bottle. English Pear & Freesia: a cult classic Orchards steeped in golden sunshine, warming the russet curves of luscious pears. The sensuous freshness of the just-ripe fruit wrapped in elegant white freesias, enhanced with rose and rooted in patchouli. Top: Williams Pear Heart: Freesia Base: Patchouli 'I love it because it's classic and elegant. I feel I can reach for it every day and wear it anywhere. It's really timeless'—Georgia May Jagger English Pear & Sweet Pea: a new classic Sun-warmed orchards spring to life as tempting green pears fill the branches. The luscious fruits enveloped in softly scented pastel sweet peas, nestled on a base of powdery white musk. Top: Williams Pear Heart: Sweet Pea Base: White Musk 'I can't help but smile when I wear English Pear & Sweet Pea. It's playful, subtle, and instantly makes my day better'—Lizzy Jagger About Jo Malone London: Since 1994 Jo Malone London has created a palette of exquisitely simple, elegant scents and curated a world where every sense is indulged. Acquired by The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. in 1999, today the brand is internationally known for its unexpected fragrances and distinctly British character. Discover these new products alongside the full collection from March 2026, online and in-store. Follow Jo Malone London on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, LinkedIn and Pinterest @JoMaloneLondon #EnglishPear
2026-03-02 19:12:00

OVN LLC Begins a New Chapter: AI as a Strategic Partner in Modern Logistics
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill., March 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In today’s logistics landscape, artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept. It is a practical tool shaping real operations in real time. OVN LLC announces the integration of AI-driven systems into its daily workflow - not as a replacement for people, but as a powerful assistant built on a decade of operational data and experience.OVN has spent years refining processes across dispatch, compliance, routing, and driver management. Now, that accumulated knowledge powers an internal AI agent designed to support the company’s team with greater precision and speed.AI Supporting Real OperationsOVN’s AI agent assists dispatchers and operations staff with:Optimizing routes based on live traffic, weather, and road conditionsSupporting onboarding and verification of new drivers and owner-operatorsReviewing airway bills, bills of lading, and shipment documentationMonitoring shipment data for inconsistencies or risk indicatorsThe system learns from historical shipment patterns and company-specific performance data, allowing it to act as a second layer of review and analytical support.This approach enhances accuracy, reduces processing time, and strengthens compliance - while keeping human oversight at the center of every decision.Technology That Amplifies PeopleOVN makes it clear: this is not an "AI-only” operation.Dispatchers still communicate directly with drivers.Operations managers still make critical decisions.Customer support remains live, 24/7/365.AI operates in the background - checking, verifying, analyzing, and recommending - enabling OVN’s team to work faster and smarter."Artificial intelligence is not replacing our people - it is reinforcing them.”"The future belongs to companies that combine experience with intelligence - both human and artificial.”A Smarter Standard of ServiceBy integrating AI into routing, compliance checks, document validation, and driver onboarding, OVN strengthens its ability to deliver:More precise dispatch executionFaster administrative processingImproved documentation accuracyEnhanced shipment visibilityGreater operational consistencyThe result is a stronger, more resilient service model built on human expertise supported by intelligent systems.The Future Is Operational - TodayAI is no longer a promise. It is infrastructure.OVN’s latest integration reflects a long-term vision: using data responsibly, strengthening internal processes, and continuously improving service quality without compromising the human element that defines the company.The future is here - and OVN is using it to raise the standard.About OVN LLCOVN LLC is an asset-based expedited freight carrier headquartered in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. With a fleet of 1,000+ cargo vans, TWIC/TSA-certified drivers, 24/7/365 live dispatch, and advanced technology infrastructure, OVN delivers fast, secure, and transparent logistics solutions across North America.Media Contact:Oleh HolovatiukCEOOVN LLCPhone: 888-385-9060Website: https://ovn.llc
2026-03-02 18:58:55

Laoag City's Pamulinawen Festival reclaims Tan-ok Festival title after 12 years
LAOAG CITY – Thousands of spectators witnessed pride, unity, and greatness through the 13th Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival, the mother of all cultural festivals in Ilocos Norte province, at Ferdinand Marcos Stadium here on Saturday night.A total of 22 contingents showcased their culture and talents, with Laoag City’s Pamulinawen Festival performance reclaiming the championship after 12 years.Participated in by 180 young performers from different schools, the city’s winning performance honored Laoag’s heritage through the eyes of the kutsero, the horse-drawn carriage driver whose craft has long defined the city’s identity.The Pamulinawen Festival won three consecutive titles in 2012 to 2014.Last year’s winner, the municipality of Piddig\'s Basi Festival, placed second, followed by Banna’s Abuos Festival, Pinili’s Abel and Bawang Festival, Burgos’ Saniata Festival, Batac’s Empanada Festival, Nueva Era’s Tadek Festival, and Currimao’s Dinaklisan Festival.Beyond the cash prizes awarded by the provincial government, the festival served as a platform for economic and artistic empowerment, generating job opportunities for local dancers, musicians, choreographers and costume designers, while boosting tourism and small businesses.Organizers said close to 6,000 artists and artisans shared their talents and skills, showcasing the thriving creative industry in the province that supports local livelihood.Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos underscored the importance of safeguarding the culture, the people, and the community that define the province."This year, Tan-ok carried a beautiful new direction. We are bringing the stories of every town closer together, just as we bring government services closer to every Ilokano family. From amianan (north) to abagatan (south), from the mountains to our coastal communities, each town carries a story shaped by faith, celebration, hard work, and love for home,” she said. (PNA)
2026-03-01 08:50:00

EverForward Trading Implements Exposure-Gating Framework as Brian Ferdinand Strengthens Capital Discipline for 2026
Las Vegas, Nevada , Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2026, market instability is no longer episodic. It is embedded.Liquidity can thin without warning. Correlation structures can compress and invert intraday. Execution reliability can deteriorate precisely when risk sensitivity increases. In this landscape, the assumption that capital should remain continuously deployed has become structurally dangerous.EverForward Trading has responded by institutionalizing an exposure-gating framework designed to prevent structural overextension. The initiative is being advanced under the direction of Brian Ferdinand, whose mandate for 2026 centers on capital durability, environmental validation, and disciplined authorization before deployment.The governing principle is clear:Capital is deployed by permission, not by default.Environment Before EngagementAt EverForward, markets are no longer treated as automatic deployment venues. They are assessed as conditional systems requiring qualification.Before exposure is activated, the firm evaluates whether the current environment demonstrates structural alignment across multiple dimensions:Depth and resilience of executable liquidityStability of volatility transmissionContainment of loss expansion under stressIntegrity of cross-asset behavior These variables are analyzed collectively, not independently. A failure in any one dimension can invalidate deployment.Within this architecture, inactivity is not hesitation. It is structural compliance.As Ferdinand has noted internally:"Strategies rarely collapse because their logic disappears. They collapse because their assumptions are forced into distorted environments.”Separation of Signal and RiskA defining feature of the 2026 framework is the firm’s strict separation between research insight and capital allocation.Analytical edge does not automatically convert into exposure.Each strategy must pass through a structured authorization layer that evaluates how it behaves under adverse structural shifts, including:Liquidity contraction and its effect on transaction cost expansionVolatility acceleration and its impact on drawdown geometryCascading failure probabilities across correlated instruments The objective is not to optimize historical return curves. It is to confirm that structural damage remains bounded when assumptions degrade.By prioritizing survivability over backtest symmetry, EverForward reduces reliance on historical smoothness and increases forward resilience.System-Enforced ConstraintThe firm’s governance model also removes discretionary escalation during instability.Exposure ceilings are predefined. Execution permissions are system-controlled. Risk tolerances are codified before stress emerges.When volatility expands or correlations destabilize, no additional authority is granted to urgency.Speed does not override structure.This deliberate constraint introduces friction into the deployment process - a stabilizing mechanism designed to prevent narrative-driven overreach during high-noise regimes.Adaptation Through ValidationWithin EverForward’s operating philosophy, adaptation is not synonymous with frequent modification.Changes to strategy parameters or allocation logic are introduced only after diagnostic confirmation that structural conditions have shifted materially. Performance divergence alone does not trigger alteration.System evolution is treated as engineering calibration, not tactical improvisation.This distinction preserves continuity of logic while maintaining flexibility when regime transitions are objectively confirmed.Strategic Positioning for 2026As structural fragmentation becomes a persistent feature of global markets, EverForward’s posture remains intentionally selective:Validate the environmentAuthorize exposure conditionallyPreserve capital as strategic inventory In a market culture that often equates activity with competence, the firm’s direction reflects a disciplined conclusion:Participation is discretionary. Preservation is mandatory.Performance, within this framework, is not pursued at the expense of structural integrity. It is built upon it.About Brian FerdinandBrian Ferdinand serves as Portfolio Manager and Trader at EverForward Trading, overseeing portfolio construction, capital allocation, and execution governance across liquid global markets. His approach emphasizes controlled exposure scaling, execution realism, and structural risk containment across varying market regimes.He is also a member of the Forbes Business Council, an invitation-only organization of senior executives and industry leaders.About EverForward TradingEverForward Trading is a trading firm focused on portfolio construction, active execution, and scalable risk management across global liquid markets. The firm prioritizes disciplined exposure governance, structural durability, and performance consistency built on systematic capital control.CONTACT: Shazir Mucklaiinfo@everforwardtrading.com
2026-02-27 22:49:29

EverForward Trading Introduces Regime-Validation Model as Brian Ferdinand Reframes Risk for 2026
London, United Kingdom, Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2026, the most significant threat to trading performance is not volatility - it is structural misinterpretation.Markets no longer transition cleanly between regimes. Liquidity can appear abundant while depth quietly erodes. Correlations can remain stable statistically while execution realities shift underneath. Signals can remain intact while their transmission mechanism degrades.In response to this environment, EverForward Trading has implemented a regime-validation model designed to prevent structural overextension. The initiative is being led by Brian Ferdinand, whose 2026 mandate centers on capital durability, execution realism, and systemic exposure control.The operating thesis is simple but uncompromising:Not all market conditions deserve capital.From Continuous Deployment to Conditional ActivationTraditional trading cultures often equate engagement with competitiveness. If markets are open, exposure is active.EverForward has deliberately rejected that premise.Instead of default participation, the firm now operates under a regime-qualification protocol. Exposure is activated only after the environment demonstrates structural integrity across key dimensions:Order book continuity under stressPredictability of volatility transmissionContainment of drawdown accelerationStability of cross-asset relationships If any one of these elements deteriorates, exposure scales down automatically - or is suspended entirely.Standing aside is not interpreted as missed opportunity. It is interpreted as adherence to structural logic.Engineering Around Structural DriftA central insight behind the 2026 framework is the concept of structural drift - the gradual deviation between modeled assumptions and live-market behavior.This drift does not announce itself. It compounds quietly.Under Ferdinand’s direction, EverForward has embedded diagnostic overlays that monitor:Liquidity degradation velocityExecution slippage expansionIntra-regime correlation compressionVolatility clustering persistence These diagnostics function as early-warning mechanisms. When structural drift exceeds tolerance thresholds, risk authority contracts before losses escalate.The objective is not faster reaction.It is earlier detection.Risk as Infrastructure, Not EmotionAnother defining characteristic of EverForward’s current doctrine is the removal of discretionary escalation during instability.Exposure ceilings are not debated intraday. Execution permissions are not expanded under narrative pressure. Risk tolerances do not widen in response to recent losses. All constraints are predefined and system-enforced. This architecture eliminates a common institutional failure mode: granting urgency temporary authority over process. In Ferdinand’s view, resilience is not built through aggression. It is built through constraint.Performance Through PreservationMany firms attempt to engineer performance first and manage risk around it. EverForward has inverted that sequence. The 2026 architecture treats preservation as the enabling condition for performance. If capital remains structurally intact across adverse regimes, opportunity remains accessible when clarity returns. This inversion reframes trading from a return-maximization exercise to a survivability-first discipline.In practical terms, it means:Smaller exposure during structural ambiguity Larger exposure only after environmental validationNo compulsion to "make back” lossesNo structural dependence on constant engagementStrategic OutlookAs structural noise becomes embedded in global markets, EverForward’s posture remains intentionally conservative in design and selective in deployment. The firm’s directional bias for 2026 is not toward speed. It is toward durability. In an environment where many participants confuse activity with edge, EverForward’s operating conclusion is clear:Capital is strategic inventory. It must be preserved before it is deployed.Endurance is not a philosophical preference.It is a competitive advantage.About Brian FerdinandBrian Ferdinand is a Portfolio Manager and Trader at EverForward Trading, responsible for portfolio construction, execution strategy, and capital allocation oversight. His approach emphasizes structural validation, controlled exposure scaling, and forward resilience across shifting market regimes.He is also a member of the Forbes Business Council, an invitation-only network of senior executives and industry leaders.About EverForward TradingEverForward Trading is a trading firm specializing in portfolio construction and active execution across liquid global markets. The firm operates with a discipline-first mandate, prioritizing structural integrity, systematic exposure governance, and long-term capital durability.CONTACT: Shazir Mucklaiinfo@everforwardtrading.com
2026-02-27 22:49:23

YZi Labs Uncovers Disturbing Filing Evidence Suggesting Undisclosed 10X Ownership in CEA Industries; Demands Immediate SEC Disclosures to Bring Potential Shadow "Group” into the Light
Company Filings Reveal Massive, Undisclosed Warrant Exercises that Appear to Have Placed 10X’s Total Ownership of the Company Above the 5% SEC Reporting Threshold by Late 2025YZi Labs Highlights the Concerning Lack of Transparency and Disclosure from 10X Capital, Which Is Controlled by BNC Board Member Hans Thomas, Regarding its Ownership of the Company in Apparent Violation of SEC RequirementsUnanimous Board Entrenchment Actions, Combined with Overlapping Insider Affiliations, Raise Questions as to the Existence of an Undisclosed "Group” of Significant Ownership that May Require Disclosure Under Section 13(d)(3)ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- YZILabs Management Ltd. ("YZi Labs” or "YZi”), a significant stockholder of CEA Industries Inc. (NASDAQ: BNC) ("BNC” or the "Company”), today released additional filing evidence that suggests 10X Capital Asset Management LLC ("10X”), and its affiliates, and certain related individuals (together, "10X Capital”) collectively beneficially own more than 5% of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock.This additional information substantiates YZi Labs’ previously articulated concerns about the lack of disclosure by 10X Capital and Hans Thomas - a member of the Company’s Board of Directors (the "Board”) and the majority owner and controller of 10X Capital Partners LLC, the Company’s asset manager - regarding their beneficial ownership of the Company. More than a week has passed since YZi Labs publicly called on 10X and Mr. Thomas to clarify their ownership level or file a Schedule 13D, which is required by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”) when a person or group’s ownership exceeds 5% of a public issuer’s outstanding stock.10X and Mr. Thomas’ continued silence on this issue - particularly after YZi Labs called attention to it - introduces new concerns that they may have deliberately evaded mandatory SEC reporting requirements and have prevented stockholders from having full transparency regarding any coordinated "group” of insiders who may be in control of the Company's governance."It has been more than a week since YZi Labs pointed out these glaring discrepancies, yet 10X has offered nothing but silence,” said Alex Odagiu, Investment Partner at YZi Labs. "The math in the Company’s own SEC filings leaves little room for ambiguity. 10X appears to have crossed the 5% ownership threshold months ago - but instead of complying with basic federal securities laws, they chose to hide in the shadows while choreographing a Board effort to entrench themselves. This seems to be a textbook example of a potential undisclosed ‘group’ operating to disenfranchise public stockholders. The market demands transparency, not a trail of breadcrumbs designed to obscure a silent intrigue.”The Buried 5.39% Warrant ExercisesThe Company’s own filings point to an obvious conclusion. Based on the Company’s public disclosures, the only publicly identified holders of the Strategic Advisor Warrants appear to be 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor and YZi Labs, while the Asset Manager Warrants are only held by 10X Capital Partners LLC.In its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 20251, the Company reported that 2,376,236 warrants were exercised in the combined Strategic Advisor Warrants / Asset Manager Warrants activity table over the previous six months. Separately, the Company’s Form S-3 filed on September 19, 20252, disclosed that 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor held 2,376,239 shares underlying its Strategic Advisor Warrants3, 10X Capital Partners LLC held 640,099 shares of Common Stock underlying its Asset Manager Warrants4, and YZILabs Management Ltd. held 3,564,359 shares of Common Stock underlying the Strategic Advisor Warrants5. This equals a total of 6,930,697 shares of Common Stock underlying the Strategic Advisor Warrants / Asset Manager Warrants.YZi Labs definitively confirms it has not exercised its Strategic Advisor Warrants, completely eliminating the only other publicly identified holder of the Strategic Advisor Warrants and Asset Manager Warrants. The Company’s disclosure that 2,376,236 warrants were exercised is nearly identical to the 2,376,239 shares underlying 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor’s Strategic Advisor Warrants, as disclosed in the Company’s Form S-3, strongly supporting the inference that the exercised block was attributable primarily to 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor or 10X Capital Partners LLC (or some combination of the two) - both of which are affiliated with 10X Capital Asset Management LLC.Based on the Company’s disclosed 44,062,938 shares outstanding as of December 12, 2025, these exercises alone equate to approximately 5.39% of outstanding common stock. This math strongly suggests that 10X may have crossed the 5% ownership threshold by late 2025.Any attempt by 10X to hide behind generic beneficial ownership blocker language only raises more severe questions: did the Company waive the beneficial ownership blocker for the 10X entities? Is 10X actively selling its BNC shares? If 10X believes no Schedule 13D was required, it must explain, clearly and publicly, who exercised that near-identical warrant block, on what basis, and why the market was left to piece together the truth from arithmetic buried in the Company’s filings.Mr. Thomas has still not filed a Form 3 with the SEC as required by Section 16 as a current director - despite being appointed more than six months ago. As the Founder and CEO of 10X Capital Partners, he almost certainly has beneficial ownership of the shares held by 10X and its related entities. Stockholders deserve to know his and 10X’s ownership in the Company and whether he and 10X are selling their shares - information YZi Labs believes would be clear if Mr. Thomas complied with his filing obligations.The Undisclosed "Group”The disclosure analysis extends far beyond 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor. The Company’s public filings show that additional insiders and directors held BNC common stock during the relevant period, including CEO David Namdar (864,428 shares6), President and Chairman of the Board Anthony K. McDonald (15,025 shares7), Director Nicholas J. Etten (9,347 shares8), Director Carly E. Howard (1,330 shares9), and former Director Russell Read (1,330 shares, while serving as a director10), based on Forms 3 and 4 filed with the SEC. This block of insider-held stock represents approximately 2.02% of the Company's outstanding shares. When combined with the estimated 5.39% held by 10X BNB Cayman Sponsor, these publicly disclosed ownership positions would control approximately 7.41% of the Company, raising further questions as to whether coordinated action may exist that would require disclosure under Section 13(d).These directors are not passive bystanders. The Board acted unanimously to adopt extreme governance measures, publicly announcing in an SEC-filed press release (Exhibit 99.1 to its December 29, 2025 Form 8-K) that it had adopted a stockholder rights plan (a "poison pill”) and amended and restated its bylaws on December 26, 2025. This demonstrates highly coordinated action at the absolute highest level of the Company’s governance.In this context, the market is entitled to rigorously scrutinize whether 10X-linked entities, the Company’s CEO (a former Partner at 10X), and directors holding Company stock were acting together with respect to the acquisition, holding, and voting of BNC securities within the exact meaning of Section 13(d)(3).If 10X Capital and these inside participants contend no such "group” existed, they must explain to stockholders how unanimous Board action, deeply overlapping affiliations, and aligned ownership positions used to deploy hostile entrenchment tactics do not constitute concerted action requiring full and immediate SEC disclosure.YZi Labs will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure that BNC stockholders are informed and that the Company's Board and its true controllers are held strictly accountable to federal securities laws.About YZi LabsYZILabs Management Ltd. is an investment firm focused on strategic, transparent, and high-governance participation in the digital asset and blockchain sectors. YZi Labs is committed to advancing best-in-class oversight, operational integrity, and shareholder alignment in all investment partnerships.Media Contactmedia@yzilabs.comCERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE PARTICIPANTSYZILabs Management Ltd. ("YZi Labs Management”), together with the other participants named herein (collectively, "YZi Labs”), has filed a preliminary consent statement and an accompanying WHITE consent card with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC”) to be used to solicit stockholder written consents to, among other things, expand the size of the Board of Directors (the "Board”) of CEA Industries Inc., a Nevada corporation (the "Company”) and elect certain persons nominated for election to the Board.YZI LABS STRONGLY ADVISES ALL STOCKHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY TO READ THE CONSENT STATEMENT AND OTHER CONSENT MATERIALS, INCLUDING A WHITE CONSENT CARD, AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. SUCH CONSENT MATERIALS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE ON THE SEC’S WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. IN ADDITION, THE PARTICIPANTS IN THIS CONSENT SOLICITATION WILL PROVIDE COPIES OF THE CONSENT STATEMENT WITHOUT CHARGE, WHEN AVAILABLE, UPON REQUEST.The participants in the consent solicitation are expected to be YZi Labs Management, Changpeng Zhao, Max Baucus Sieben, David James Chapman, Marie Teresa Goody Guillén, Jiajin He, Alex Odagiu, Matthew Roszak and Ling Zhang (collectively, the "Participants”).As of the date hereof, YZi Labs Management directly beneficially owns 2,150,481 shares of common stock, par value $0.00001 per share (the "Common Stock”). As of the date hereof, YZi Labs Management holds (i) 7,750,510 shares of Common Stock underlying certain Pre-Funded Warrants (the "Pre-Funded Warrants”), (ii) 9,900,991 shares of Common Stock underlying certain Stapled Warrants (the "Stapled Warrants”) and (iii) 3,564,359 shares of Common Stock underlying certain Strategic Advisor Warrants (the "Strategic Advisor Warrants”). Each of the Pre-Funded Warrants, the Stapled Warrants and the Strategic Advisor Warrants either provide that, or the holder has elected that, the holder shall not have the right to exercise any portion of any such warrants to the extent that after giving effect to such issuance after exercise, such holder and certain of its affiliates would be deemed to beneficially own, as determined in accordance with Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, more than 4.99% of the Company’s then outstanding shares of Common Stock (the "Beneficial Ownership Limitations”). As of the date hereof, none of YZi Labs Management’s Pre-Funded Warrants, Stapled Warrants or Strategic Advisor Warrants are currently exercisable, and are not expected within 60 days to be exercisable due to the Beneficial Ownership Limitations. Mr. Zhao, as the sole director of YZi Labs Management, may be deemed the beneficial owner of the 2,150,481 shares of Common Stock directly owned by YZi Labs. As of the date hereof, Ms. He may be deemed to beneficially own 2,099,644 shares of Common Stock, including 1,188,120 shares of Common Stock underlying certain Stapled Warrants, and Mr. Odagiu may be deemed to beneficially own 4,918 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, each of Messrs. Baucus, Chapman and Roszak, and Msses. Goody Guillen and Zhang do not beneficially own any shares of Common Stock.1 Please refer to Note 14 of Form 10-Q filed by the Company on December 12, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001482541/000149315225027782/form10-q.htm#fact-identifier-12352 See Form S-3 filing dated September 19, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1482541/000149315225014357/forms-3asr.htm3 See Note 110 of the "Selling Stockholders” table from the Form S-3 filing.4 See Note 110 of the "Selling Stockholders” table from the Form S-3 filing.5 See Note 120 of the "Selling Stockholders” table from the Form S-3 filing.6 See Form 3 filed by Mr. Namdar on December 19, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1482541/000149315225028565/xslF345X02/ownership.xml7 See Form 4 filed by Mr. McDonald on October 7, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1454332/000149315225017199/xslF345X05/ownership.xml8 See Form 4 filed by Mr. Etten on July 29, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1482541/000164117225021470/xslF345X05/ownership.xml9 See Form 4 filed by Ms. Howard on December 23, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1482541/000149315225029140/xslF345X05/ownership.xml10 See Form 4 filed by Mr. Read on December 23, 2025: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1482541/000149315225029150/xslF345X05/ownership.xml
2026-02-27 22:49:22

Securitize’s Explosive Growth and the $SLINK Narrative Play Positioning Retail Early in the RWA Revolution
$SLINK launches on Solana as a fair‐launched narrative token aligned with the Securitize tokenization ecosystem.New York, NY, Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tokenization is no longer a future concept. It is the infrastructure upgrade that is reshaping global finance today.Trillions in real-world assets - real estate, private credit, funds, equities and more - are moving on-chain. Leading this shift is Securitize, the institutional-grade tokenization platform powering BlackRock’s BUIDL fund, partnering with major banks and asset managers, and executing landmark deals such as tokenized luxury resorts.In the first nine months of 2025 alone, Securitize reported $55.6 million in revenue, an 841% increase year-over-year. Full-year 2024 revenue reached $18.8 million (129% growth), with $4B+ in assets under management as of November 2025. The company has now filed its S-4 registration statement with the SEC for a SPAC merger with Cantor Equity Partners II (Nasdaq: CEPT), targeting a Nasdaq listing under ticker SECZ in the first half of 2026 at a pre-money valuation of approximately $1.25 billion.While institutions secure early allocations but face long lockup periods, retail investors have historically waited on the sidelines.$SLINK was created to change that dynamic.A Clean, Fair-Launched Narrative Token$SLINK is a pure fair launch on Solana via Pumpfun. Launched with full transparency, it gives the community a straightforward way to follow the Securitize infrastructure story from the earliest stages.Key conviction signals include:• 20 million tokens (2% of original supply) permanently burnt via creator-fee buyback from the open market• Founder @psxagent007 (a Securitize seed investor since 2018) has locked 50% of total supply (500 million $SLINK) for 6 months on-chainThese actions reflect genuine long-term alignment rather than short-term hype.$SLINK is currently a narrative token only. The founder has publicly outlined the intention to pursue full regulatory registration as a compliant asset-backed token in the future, subject to regulatory approval. Until that process is complete, $SLINK carries no ownership rights, no economic exposure, no yields, and no affiliation with Securitize.Why This Narrative Matters NowThe RWA sector is experiencing explosive growth. Tokenized market cap has surged dramatically year-over-year, driven by real institutional demand for compliant, liquid, programmable versions of traditional assets.Securitize is at the center of this shift. Its technology enables fractional ownership, 24/7 trading, and enforceable rights while meeting the strict regulatory standards institutions require. As more assets move on-chain, the platforms with proven infrastructure and blue-chip partnerships are positioned to capture the largest share of value creation.$SLINK offers the community a transparent, clean micro-cap vehicle to align with this infrastructure leader early - before the broader market fully prices in the coming catalysts.How to Get $SLINKWebsite: https://sharelink.companyX: https://x.com/SLINKsolLive Chart: https://dexscreener.com/solana/7okHmAi1re834jSp2kAdduML9a1RfZ5fQJfQ878k8y7gImportant Disclaimer$SLINK is a narrative/community token only. Future plans to register as an asset-backed token are subject to regulatory approval and may change. The token currently provides no ownership rights, no economic exposure, no yields, and no affiliation with Securitize. Not a security or investment product. NFA - DYOR. Crypto investments carry high risk; only invest what you can afford to lose.The infrastructure is winning.The narrative is just getting started.Welcome to the next chapter of finance.Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of capital. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.CONTACT: Viola WilliamsPublic RelationsInfo(at)sharelink.company
2026-02-27 22:49:15

Avalon GloboCare Announces Closing of up to $9.75 Million Private Placement Priced At-the-Market under Nasdaq Rules
$3.25 Million Upfront With up to Approximately $6.5 Million of Potential Aggregate Proceeds Upon the Exercise in Full of WarrantsFREEHOLD, N.J., Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avalon GloboCare Corp. ("Avalon” or the "Company”) (NASDAQ: ALBT), a diversified company focused on the development of precision diagnostic consumer products and generative AI publishing and software, today announced the closing of its previously announced private placement priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules for the issuance and sale of 6,372,550 shares of its common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof), Series A-1 warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 6,372,550 shares of common stock and Series A-2 warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 6,372,550 shares of common stock, at a purchase price of $0.51 per share (or pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) and associated warrants. The warrants have an exercise price of $0.51 per share and will be exercisable beginning on the effective date of stockholder approval of the issuance of the shares upon exercise of the warrants. The Series A-1 warrants will expire five years from the date of stockholder approval and the Series A-2 warrants will expire eighteen months from the date of stockholder approval.H.C. Wainwright & Co. acted as the exclusive placement agent for the offering. Roth Capital Partners acted as financial advisor to the Company.The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company from the offering were approximately $3.25 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses. The potential additional gross proceeds to the Company from the warrants, if fully-exercised on a cash basis, will be approximately $6.5 million. No assurance can be given that any of such warrants will become exercisable or will be exercised. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for the repayment of certain outstanding debt and for working capital and general corporate purposes.The securities described above were offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act”) and Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of common stock underlying the warrants sold in the offering, have not been registered under the Act or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, such securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the SEC or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. The securities were offered only to accredited investors. Pursuant to a registration rights agreement, the Company has agreed to file one or more registration statements with the SEC covering the resale of the unregistered securities to be issued in the offering.This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.About Avalon GloboCare Corp.Avalon GloboCare Corp. (NASDAQ: ALBT) is a technology-focused company developing and acquiring innovative artificial intelligence platforms. Through its AI-driven subsidiary, Avalon Quantum AI LLC, the Company is advancing next-generation AI systems, including automated video generation, enterprise documentation, and workflow automation solutions. Avalon is also expanding its intellectual property portfolio in cellular therapy and generative AI publishing and software. In addition, Avalon is marketing the KetoAirTM breathalyzer device, which is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a Class I medical device, and plans to pursue additional diagnostic applications for the technology.For more information about Avalon, please visit www.avalon-globocare.com. Information on the Company’s website does not constitute a part of and is not incorporated by reference into this press release.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements contained in this press release are "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are made based on our expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Company and therefore involve several risks and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by the fact that they use words such as "will”, "anticipate”, "estimate”, "expect”, "should”, "may”, and other words and terms of similar meaning or use of future dates; however, the absence of these words or similar expressions does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact, including statements regarding the use of proceeds from the offering, the receipt of stockholder approval for the warrants and the exercise of the warrants prior to their expiration. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors as disclosed in our filings with the SEC, accessible through the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov), including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K filed or furnished with the SEC. In addition to these factors, actual future performance, outcomes, and results may differ materially because of more general factors, including (without limitation) general industry and market conditions and growth rates, economic conditions, and governmental and public policy changes. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent the Company's views as of the date of this press release and these views could change. The Company disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to the date of the press release. The contents of any website referenced in this press release are not incorporated by reference herein.Contact Information:Avalon GloboCare Corp.4400 Route 9 South, Suite 3100Freehold, NJ 07728PR@Avalon-GloboCare.comInvestor Relations:Crescendo Communications, LLCTel: (212) 671-1020 Ext. 304albt@crescendo-ir.com
2026-02-27 22:49:05

OpGen, Inc. (OTC: OPGN) Announces Name Change to CapForce Inc.
CLARKSBURG, Md., Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OpGen, Inc. (OTC: OPGN) today announced that it is changing its name to CapForce Inc., effective today. OpGen changed its name to CapForce Inc. in order to reflect the repositioning of the Company’s business to the digital investment banking and financial technology sectors. The name "CapForce” represents the "Force of Capital,” symbolizing the Company’s conviction as a next-generation category-defining fintech-powered investment bank that harnesses the intrinsic force of capital, through capital markets as the empowerment medium, to empower global mid-sized high growth companies to grow beyond the small-cap universe and punch above their weight to enter the mid-cap or even large-cap universe. In connection with the name change, the Company expects to change its ticker symbol to "CFOR.”About CapForce Inc.CapForce Inc. (Clarksburg, Md., U.S.A.), along with its subsidiaries CapForce International Holdings Ltd. and iCapX Sdn. Bhd., provides fintech-enabled digital investment banking services for global high-growth mid-sized private companies seeking public market listings and other capital markets advisory services, of listing market capitalization value in the range of $1 billion to $10 billion, with its key focus on small-cap and mid-cap listing stocks underserved by bulge bracket investment banks. In furtherance of such core strategy, CapForce Inc. is pursuing fintech-enabled and AI-powered asset and wealth management services for its core investment banking clients across the world with the development of a digital investment banking platform designed to facilitate cross-border securities activities, AI-powered robo-advisory services, and technology-driven capitalization table management solutions. The timing and implementation of these initiatives are subject to market conditions, regulatory approvals, and other relevant factors. CapForce Inc.’s controlling shareholder, AEI Capital Group, is an Asia-based alternative asset management group with groupwide AUM exceeding $7 billion, focused on global growth equity (private and public markets) as its core strategies, along with other satellite strategies in furtherance of its core strategies including private credit, hedge funds, funds-of-funds and real estate, having its footprints in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, London and Washington D.C.For more information, please visit https://capforce.opgen.com/.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established thereunder. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that are often difficult to predict, are beyond the Company’s control, and which may cause results to differ materially from expectations, including risks regarding the implementation and execution of operational, legal, and administrative changes associated with the name change, the effectiveness of the Company’s rebranding efforts, potential confusion among customers, partners, or investors, and costs associated with the rebranding process. For further discussion of factors that could materially affect the outcome of the Company’s forward-looking statements and its future results and financial condition, see "Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A, of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and its other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.CapForce Inc.:Christian-Laurent Benoit BonteChief Executive OfficerInvestorRelations@opgen.com
2026-02-27 22:49:02

Pulsar Helium Announces Closing of Fundraise
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS RESTRICTED AND IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN, INTO OR FROM AUSTRALIA, JAPAN OR THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA OR TO BE TRANSMITTED, DISTRIBUTED TO, OR SENT BY, ANY NATIONAL OR RESIDENT OR CITIZEN OF ANY SUCH COUNTRIES OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION MAY CONTRAVENE LOCAL SECURITIES LAWS OR REGULATIONS.NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.CASCAIS, Portugal, Feb. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pulsar Helium Inc. (AIM: PLSR, TSXV: PLSR, OTCQB: PSRHF) ("Pulsar” or the "Company”), a primary helium company, is pleased to announce that further to its announcements on February 19 and 20, 2026, it has conditionally closed its placing (the "Placing”) of 9,191,175 common shares of the Company (each, a "Placing Share” and each common share of the Company, a "Common Share”) at a price of £0.80 (approximately CAD$1.47) per Placing Share for total gross proceeds of £7,352,940 (approximately US$10.0 million / CAD$13.7 million). Closing of the Placing remains subject to receipt of final approval from the TSX Venture Exchange.Net proceeds received pursuant to the Placing will be used to advance Pulsar’s flagship Topaz helium project in Minnesota, USA (the "Topaz Project”), to progress the Falcon project in Michigan (the "Falcon Project”), and for general working capital and corporate purposes. At the Topaz Project, the Company intends to undertake extended well testing and reservoir evaluation; conduct an additional seismic survey to enhance structural interpretation and reservoir modelling; consolidate and expand its mineral and leasehold interests; update the independent resource estimate; and complete a pre-feasibility study for integrated helium and CO2 production. The Company also intends to place deposits on certain long-lead processing equipment for the contemplated helium recovery and CO2 capture facility. In addition, a portion of the proceeds is expected to support geophysical, geochemical and related exploration activities at the Falcon Project.In connection with the Placing, OAK Securities (a trading name of Merlin Partners LLP) ("OAK”) was paid an advisory fee of £20,000 (approximately CAD$37,000) and a cash fee in an amount of £441,176 (approximately CAD$812,000). The Company also issued 551,470 non-transferable Common Share purchase warrants ("Broker Warrants”) to OAK, with the Broker Warrants being exercisable for 12 months from the date of issue at a price of £0.80 (approximately CAD$1.47).Additional InformationThe Placing was conducted pursuant to Pulsar’s Canadian base shelf prospectus dated February 11, 2026 (the "Base Shelf Prospectus”) as supplemented by the Company’s prospectus supplement dated February 19, 2026 relating to the Placing (the "Prospectus Supplement”), copies of which are available on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. As the Prospectus Supplement and the Base Shelf Prospectus qualify the distribution of the Placing Shares sold pursuant to the Placing, the Placing Shares are not subject to any resale restrictions in Canada. Such documents are not prospectuses for the purposes of the FCA’s Prospectus Rules: Admission to Trading on a Regulated Market sourcebook.Access to the Prospectus Supplement and the Base Shelf Prospectus is provided in accordance with Canadian securities legislation relating to procedures for providing access to a shelf prospectus supplement, a base shelf prospectus and any amendment thereto. An electronic or paper copy of the Prospectus Supplement, the corresponding Base Shelf Prospectus and any amendment thereto may be obtained, without charge, from the Company at connect@pulsarhelium.com, by providing the contact with an email address or mailing address, as applicable.On behalf of Pulsar Helium Inc."Thomas Abraham-James”President, CEO and DirectorFurther Information: Pulsar Helium Inc.connect@pulsarhelium.com+ 1 (218) 203-5301 (USA/Canada)+44 (0) 2033 55 9889 (United Kingdom)https://pulsarhelium.comhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/pulsar-helium-inc.OAK Securities*(Broker and exclusive bookrunner and placement agent in connection with the Placing)Jerry Keen / Calvin Man+44 7432 270007 / +44 7733 117328+44 20 3973 3678jerry.keen@oak-securities.com / calvin.man@oak-securities.com*OAK Securities is the trading name of Merlin Partners LLP, a firm incorporated in the United Kingdom and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority.Strand Hanson Limited (Nominated & Financial Adviser, and Broker)Ritchie Balmer / Rob Patrick+44 (0) 207 409 3494Yellow Jersey PR Limited(Financial PR)Charles Goodwin / Annabelle Wills+44 777 5194 357pulsarhelium@yellowjerseypr.comAbout Pulsar Helium Inc. Pulsar Helium Inc. is a publicly traded company quoted on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange (United Kingdom) and listed on the TSX Venture Exchange with the ticker PLSR (Canada), as well as on the OTCQB with the ticker PSRHF (United States of America). Pulsar's portfolio consists of its flagship Topaz helium project in Minnesota, the Falcon project in Michigan (both in the USA), and the Tunu helium project in Greenland. Pulsar is the first mover in both locations with primary helium occurrences not associated with the production of hydrocarbons identified at each.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Important NoticesTHIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS RESTRICTED AND IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO OR FROM THE UNITED STATES, AUSTRALIA, THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA OR JAPAN OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO TAKE PART IN THE PLACING. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES AND IS DIRECTED ONLY AT PERSONS WHOSE ORDINARY ACTIVITIES INVOLVE THEM IN ACQUIRING, HOLDING, MANAGING AND DISPOSING OF INVESTMENTS (AS PRINCIPAL OR AGENT) FOR THE PURPOSES OF THEIR BUSINESS AND WHO HAVE PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN MATTERS RELATING TO INVESTMENTS AND ARE: (1) IF IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, "QUALIFIED INVESTORS", BEING PERSONS FALLING WITHIN THE MEANING OF PARAGRAPH 15 OF SCHEDULE 1 OF THE PUBLIC OFFERS AND ADMISSIONS TO TRADING REGULATIONS 2024, WHO (A) FALL WITHIN ARTICLE 19(5) (INVESTMENT PROFESSIONALS) OF THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AND MARKETS ACT 2000 (FINANCIAL PROMOTION) ORDER 2005, AS AMENDED (THE "ORDER") OR (B) FALL WITHIN ARTICLE 49(2)(A) TO (D) (HIGH NET WORTH COMPANIES, UNINCORPORATED ASSOCIATIONS, ETC.) OF THE ORDER; (2) IF IN MEMBER STATES OF THE EEA, "QUALIFIED INVESTORS", BEING PERSONS FALLING WITHIN THE MEANING OF ARTICLE 2(E) OF THE PROSPECTUS REGULATION; OR (3) PERSONS TO WHOM THEY MAY OTHERWISE LAWFULLY BE COMMUNICATED (ALL SUCH PERSONS TOGETHER BEING REFERRED TO AS "RELEVANT PERSONS").THIS ANNOUNCEMENT AND THE INFORMATION IN IT MUST NOT BE ACTED ON OR RELIED ON BY PERSONS WHO ARE NOT RELEVANT PERSONS. PERSONS DISTRIBUTING THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MUST SATISFY THEMSELVES THAT IT IS LAWFUL TO DO SO. ANY INVESTMENT OR INVESTMENT ACTIVITY TO WHICH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT RELATES IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO RELEVANT PERSONS AND WILL BE ENGAGED IN ONLY WITH RELEVANT PERSONS. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT ITSELF CONSTITUTE AN OFFER FOR SALE OR SUBSCRIPTION OF ANY SECURITIES IN PULSAR HELIUM INC.THE PLACING SHARES HAVE NOT BEEN AND WILL NOT BE REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE "U.S. SECURITIES ACT”) OR UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED STATES, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED, SOLD, RESOLD OR DELIVERED, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES EXCEPT PURSUANT TO AN EXEMPTION FROM, OR IN A TRANSACTION NOT SUBJECT TO, THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT. THE PLACING WAS MADE SOLELY OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES TO PERSONS IN OFFSHORE TRANSACTIONS (AS DEFINED IN REGULATION S UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT ("REGULATION S")) MEETING THE REQUIREMENTS OF REGULATION S. PERSONS RECEIVING THIS ANNOUNCEMENT (INCLUDING CUSTODIANS, NOMINEES AND TRUSTEES) MUST NOT FORWARD, DISTRIBUTE, MAIL OR OTHERWISE TRANSMIT IT IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR USE THE UNITED STATES MAILS, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLACING.The distribution or transmission of this Announcement and/or the Placing and/or issue of the Placing Shares in certain jurisdictions may be restricted or prohibited by law or regulation. Persons distributing this Announcement must satisfy themselves that it is lawful to do so. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No action has been taken by the Company, Strand Hanson or OAK or any of their respective affiliates, agents, directors, officers or employees that would permit an offer of the Placing Shares or possession or distribution of this Announcement or any other offering or publicity material relating to such shares in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required. Persons into whose possession this Announcement comes are required by the Company, Strand Hanson and OAK to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.This Announcement or any part of it does not constitute or form part of any offer to issue or sell, or the solicitation of an offer to acquire, purchase or subscribe for, any securities in the United States (including its territories and possessions, any state of the United States and the District of Columbia), Australia, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the same would be unlawful. No public offering of the Placing Shares is being made in any such jurisdiction.In the United Kingdom, in relation to the Placing Shares this Announcement is being directed solely at persons in circumstances in which section 21(1) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (as amended) does not apply.Accordingly, the Placing Shares may not (unless an exemption under the relevant securities laws is applicable) be offered, sold, resold or delivered, directly or indirectly, in or into Australia, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction outside the United Kingdom.Persons (including, without limitation, nominees and trustees) who have a contractual right or other legal obligations to forward a copy of this Announcement should seek appropriate advice before taking any action.OAK, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") in the United Kingdom and is acting as bookrunner to the Company and no one else in connection with the Placing, and OAK will not be responsible to anyone (including any purchasers of the Placing Shares) other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to its clients or for providing advice in relation to the Placing or any other matters referred to in this Announcement.Strand Hanson Limited ("Strand Hanson"), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom, is acting as nominated adviser to the Company in connection with the Placing. The responsibilities of Strand Hanson as the Company's Nominated Adviser under the AIM Rules for Companies and the AIM Rules for Nominated Advisers are owed solely to the London Stock Exchange and are not owed to the Company or to any director or shareholder of the Company or any other person. Strand Hanson will not be responsible to any person other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to clients of Strand Hanson or for providing advice to any other person in connection with the Placing or any acquisition of shares in the Company.No representation or warranty, express or implied, is or will be made as to, or in relation to, and no responsibility or liability is or will be accepted by Strand Hanson or OAK or by any of Strand Hanson or OAK's affiliates or agents as to, or in relation to, the accuracy or completeness of this Announcement or any other written or oral information made available to or publicly available to any interested party or its advisers, and any liability therefor is expressly disclaimed.Any indication in this Announcement of the price at which the existing ordinary shares in the capital of the Company have been bought or sold in the past cannot be relied upon as a guide to future performance. Persons needing advice should consult an independent financial adviser.No statement in this Announcement is intended to be a profit forecast, and no statement in this Announcement should be interpreted to mean that earnings per share of the Company for the current or future financial years would necessarily match or exceed the historical published earnings per share of the Company.Neither the content of the Company's website (or any other website) nor any website accessible by hyperlinks on the Company's website (or any other website) is incorporated in, or forms part of, this Announcement.Information to DistributorsUK Product Governance RequirementsSolely for the purposes of the Product Governance requirements contained within Chapter 3 of the FCA Handbook Product Intervention and Product Governance Sourcebook (the "UK Product Governance Requirements") and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any "manufacturer" (for the purposes of the UK Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the Placing Shares have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that the Placing Shares are: (i) compatible with an end target market of (a) retail investors, (b) investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and (c) eligible counterparties, each as defined in the FCA Handbook Conduct of Business Sourcebook; and (ii) eligible for distribution through all distribution channels as are permitted by UK Product Governance Requirements (the "UK Target Market Assessment"). Notwithstanding the UK Target Market Assessment, distributors should note that: the price of the Placing Shares may decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment; the Placing Shares offer no guaranteed income and no capital protection; and an investment in the Placing Shares is compatible only with investors who do not need a guaranteed income or capital protection, who (either alone or in conjunction with an appropriate financial or other adviser) are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of such an investment and who have sufficient resources to be able to bear any losses that may result therefrom.The UK Target Market Assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual, legal or regulatory selling restrictions in relation to the Placing. Furthermore, it is noted that, notwithstanding the UK Target Market Assessment, OAK will only procure investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties.For the avoidance of doubt, the UK Target Market Assessment does not constitute: (a) an assessment of suitability or appropriateness for the purposes of Chapters 9A or 10A, respectively, of the FCA Handbook Conduct of Business Sourcebook; or (b) a recommendation to any investor or group of investors to invest in, or purchase, or take any other action whatsoever with respect to, the Placing Shares.Each distributor is responsible for undertaking its own target market assessment in respect of the Placing Shares and determining appropriate distribution channels.EU Product Governance RequirementsSolely for the purposes of the product governance requirements contained within (a) EU Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in financial instruments, as amended ("MiFID II"), (b) Articles 9 and 10 of Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2017/593 supplementing MiFID II and (c) local implementing measures (together the "EU Product Governance Requirements") and disclaiming all and any liability, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any "manufacturer" (for the purposes of the EU Product Governance Requirements) may otherwise have with respect thereto, the Placing Shares have been subject to a product approval process, which has determined that the Placing Shares are: (i) compatible with an end target market of (a) retail investors, (b) investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and (c) eligible counterparties, each as defined in MiFID II; and (ii) eligible for distribution through all distribution channels as are permitted by EU Product Governance Requirements (the "EU Target Market Assessment"). Notwithstanding the EU Target Market Assessment, distributors should note that: the price of the Placing Shares may decline and investors could lose all or part of their investment; the Placing Shares offer no guaranteed income and no capital protection; and an investment in the Placing Shares is compatible only with investors who do not need a guaranteed income or capital protection, who (either alone or in conjunction with an appropriate financial or other adviser) are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of such an investment and who have sufficient resources to be able to bear any losses that may result therefrom.The EU Target Market Assessment is without prejudice to the requirements of any contractual, legal or regulatory selling restrictions in relation to the Placing. Furthermore, it is noted that, notwithstanding the EU Target Market Assessment, OAK will only procure investors who meet the criteria of professional clients and eligible counterparties.For the avoidance of doubt, the EU Target Market Assessment does not constitute: (a) an assessment of suitability or appropriateness for the purposes of MiFID II; or (b) a recommendation to any investor or group of investors to invest in, or purchase, or take any other action whatsoever with respect to the Placing Shares.Each distributor is responsible for undertaking its own target market assessment in respect of the Placing Shares and determining appropriate distribution channels.This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements herein include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the expected use of net proceeds of the Placing. Forward-looking statements may involve estimates and are based upon assumptions made by management of the Company, including, but not limited to, the Company's capital cost estimates, management's expectations regarding the availability of capital to fund the Company's future capital and operating requirements and the ability to obtain all requisite regulatory approvals.No reserves have been assigned in connection with the Company's property interests to date, given their early stage of development. The future value of the Company is therefore dependent on the success or otherwise of its activities, which are principally directed toward the future exploration, appraisal and development of its assets, and potential acquisition of property interests in the future. No un-risked Contingent and Prospective Helium Volumes have been defined at the Tunu Project. However, estimating helium volumes is subject to significant uncertainties associated with technical data and the interpretation of that data, future commodity prices, and development and operating costs. There can be no guarantee that the Company will successfully convert its helium volume to reserves and produce that estimated volume. Estimates may alter significantly or become more uncertain when new information becomes available due to for example, additional drilling or production tests over the life of field. As estimates change, development and production plans may also vary. Downward revision of helium volume estimates may adversely affect the Company's operational or financial performance.Helium volume estimates are expressions of judgement based on knowledge, experience and industry practice. These estimates are imprecise and depend to some extent on interpretations, which may ultimately prove to be inaccurate and require adjustment or, even if valid when originally calculated, may alter significantly when new information or techniques become available. As further information becomes available through additional drilling and analysis the estimates are likely to change. Any adjustments to volume could affect the Company's exploration and development plans which may, in turn, affect the Company's performance. The process of estimating helium resources is complex and requires significant decisions and assumptions to be made in evaluating the reliability of available geological, geophysical, engineering, and economic data for each property. Different engineers may make different estimates of resources, cash flows, or other variables based on the same available data.Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward- looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, that Pulsar may be unsuccessful in drilling commercially productive wells; the uncertainty of resource estimation; operational risks in conducting exploration, including that drill costs may be higher than estimates; commodity prices; health, safety and environmental factors; and other factors set forth above as well as risk factors included in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated February 3, 2026 for the year ended September 30, 2025 found under Company’s profile on www.sedarplus.ca.Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are as of the date of this news release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. No assurance can be given that the forward-looking statements herein will prove to be correct and, accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
2026-02-27 22:48:58

PH cities join Marcos, DepEd push to speed up classroom construction
CITY governments across the country have joined the Department of Education (DepEd) and the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in a unified effort to speed up the construction of classrooms, marking the first time cities nationwide formally committed to a single coordinated plan to address the country’s classroom shortage. City mayors from across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao signed an agreement with the DepEd at Malacañan Palace, pledging to help fast-track permits, identify priority schools, and support the construction of safe and modern classrooms in their communities. President Marcos thanked the city local government units for answering the call to help solve the classroom gap. “Tiyakin nating hindi maaantala ang mga proyekto. Tiyakin nating de-kalidad ang mga silid-aralan. Tiyakin natin na ang bawat sentimo na pinaghirapan ng ating mga kababayan ay gagamitin sa tama (Let us ensure that the projects will not be delayed. Let us ensure that the classrooms are of high quality. Let us ensure that every cent earned through the hard work of our fellow citizens is used properly),” President Marcos said.The agreement builds on an earlier partnership with provincial governments and forms part of a broader national strategy to close the country’s 165,000 classroom gap. Education Secretary Sonny Angara, who pushed for the flexibility provision of classroom construction in the 2026 General Appropriations Act, said the partnership will help deliver classrooms faster by working closely with local governments that understand the needs of their schools. “Malaking hakbang ito upang mas mapabilis ang pagpapatayo ng mga silid-aralan. Alam ng ating mga lungsod kung saan pinaka kailangan ang mga classroom, at sa pagtutulungan natin, mas mabibigyan natin ng ligtas at maayos na lugar ang ating mga mag-aaral at guro (This is a big step toward speeding up the construction of classrooms. Our cities know where classrooms are most needed, and through our cooperation, we can better provide our students and teachers with safe and suitable places to learn and work),” Angara said.President Marcos has identified education as a top priority with a total of P85 billion allocated in 2026 for basic education facilities construction and rehabilitation. DepEd is also exploring new approaches, such as public-private partnerships and leasing, to speed up delivery and improve learning conditions. LGUs are also encouraged to set up Learning Continuity Spaces or LCS to ensure uninterrupted learning during classroom construction and in times of emergencies or disasters. Angara said the nationwide partnership empowers cities to take direct action in helping build classrooms, reduce overcrowding, and ensure learners and teachers have better spaces for teaching and learning. The signing was witnessed by teachers and learners, who will directly benefit from the faster construction of classrooms and better learning spaces.
2026-02-26 12:48:55

Ruby Central Aligns Brand with Evolving Community and Future-Focused Mission
LOAS ANGELES, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ruby Central has completed a brand update to better reflect its mission and the evolving needs of the Ruby community.Ruby Central’s role remains consistent: stewarding RubyGems.org, supporting governance, strengthening supply chain security, and growing the Ruby community in strength and participation. Over time, however, the visual identity became inconsistent and fragmented.Ruby Central partnered with Flagrant for guidance throughout the process. As outlined in the public case study, the organization’s brand assets had been assembled over many years without a unified system. Flagrant conducted a structured review of existing materials, evaluated whether a full redesign was warranted, and worked with Ruby Central to determine that a disciplined refresh would best serve the community.Core visual references remain intact, while updates were made to improve legibility, accessibility, and consistency across technical documentation, governance materials, and event platforms.The goal was not to redefine Ruby Central, but to ensure its presentation matches the substance of its work. The updated brand system is designed to provide a stable visual foundation for long-term community growth.Ruby Central extends its appreciation to Flagrant for their thoughtful guidance and disciplined design work.The first opportunity to see the updated brand fully realized will be at RubyConf 2026, taking place July 14-16 at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa in Las Vegas. Attendees will experience the refreshed brand across conference materials, signage, stage design, and digital touchpoints. The intent is practical: a stronger alignment between Ruby Central’s mission and its flagship programs.The case study linked to this update details the process, tradeoffs, and reasoning behind the refresh, offering transparency into how Ruby Central approaches long-term investments on behalf of the community.To read the full case study on the brand update, visit: https://www.beflagrant.com/work/ruby-central-rebrandAbout Ruby CentralRuby Central is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the Ruby programming language and its global community. Ruby Central stewards RubyGems.org and produces RubyConf, while developing programs that strengthen participation, sustainability, and leadership across the Ruby ecosystem.Media Contact:Cindi SuteraCommunications, Ruby CentralCindi@RubyCentral.org610-613-2773
2026-02-26 12:48:17

Cronos Group Reports 2025 Fourth Quarter and Full-Year Results
Net revenue in Q4 2025 increased by 47% year-over-year to $44.5 million; Net revenue in FY 2025 increased by 25% year-over-year to $146.6 millionAchieved record net revenue in Q4 2025 and FY 2025Eighth consecutive quarter of record net revenue in Israel, where PEACE NATURALS® continues to be the number one cannabis brand1Industry leading balance sheet with $832 million in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments TORONTO, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) ("Cronos” or the "Company”), today announced its 2025 fourth quarter and full-year business results."Cronos delivered record net revenue, gross profit and Adjusted EBITDA in 2025, reflecting the continued strength of our core business and the progress we are making towards our strategic priorities. We achieved record net revenue for both the fourth quarter and the full year, driven by strong consumer demand for our leading brands, the completion of the expansion at Cronos GrowCo, and the increasing contribution from our international markets,” said Mike Gorenstein, Chairman, President and CEO of Cronos."Looking ahead, we are excited about the opportunities in front of us as we enter 2026,” continued Gorenstein. "Once completed, our pending acquisition of CanAdelaar will establish a strategic footprint in Europe and enable us to leverage our borderless product strategy in the Netherlands’ legal adult-use cannabis market. Outside the Netherlands, with the scale benefits expected from Cronos GrowCo’s expansion, continued growth in our proprietary products, and the strength of our international presence, we believe Cronos is well-positioned to deliver sustainable net revenue and Adjusted EBITDA growth and to create long-term shareholder value.”Consolidated Financial ResultsOn June 20, 2024 the Company made an additional investment (the "Cronos GrowCo Transaction”) in Cronos Growing Company Inc. ("Cronos GrowCo”) to fund the expansion of cultivation operations. Cronos also obtained majority control of the board of directors of Cronos GrowCo and began consolidating Cronos GrowCo's results from July 1, 2024. Prior to this date, the Company's investment in Cronos GrowCo consisted of an investment accounted for under the equity method and loans receivable from Cronos GrowCo.The tables below set forth our condensed consolidated results of continuing operations, expressed in thousands of United States ("U.S.”) dollars for the periods presented. Our condensed consolidated financial results for these periods are not necessarily indicative of the consolidated financial results that we will achieve in future periods.(in thousands of USD) Three Months Ended December 31, Change Year ended December 31, Change 2025 2024 $ % 2025 2024 $ %Cronos net revenue, excluding Cronos GrowCo net revenue(i) $41,231 $28,195 $13,036 46% $136,289 $111,241 $25,048 23%Cronos GrowCo net revenue(ii) 3,300 2,106 1,194 57% 10,298 6,374 3,924 62%Net Revenue $44,531 $30,301 $14,230 47% $146,587 $117,615 $28,972 25% Cost of sales 28,280 19,494 8,786 45% 83,174 91,710 (8,536) (9)%Inventory write-down 62 - 62 N/A 654 707 (53) (7)%Gross profit $16,189 $10,807 $5,382 50% $62,759 $25,198 $37,561 149%Gross margin(iii) 36% 36% N/A -pp 43% 21% N/A 22pp Inventory step-up recorded to cost of sales - (1,832) 1,832 N/A 517 5,284 (4,767) N/AAdjusted Gross Profit(iv) $16,189 $8,975 $7,214 80% $63,276 $30,482 $32,794 108%Adjusted Gross Margin(v) 36% 30% N/A 6pp 43% 26% N/A 1pp Net income (loss) $(491) $43,941 $(44,432) (101)% $(2,929) $40,022 $(42,951) N/M Adjusted EBITDA(iv) $456 $(7,203) $7,659 N/M $10,110 $(34,942) $45,052 N/M Other Data Cash and cash equivalents(vi) $791,794 $858,805 $(67,011) (8)% Short-term investments(vi) 40,000 - 40,000 N/M Capital expenditures(vii) 2,274 3,708 (1,434) (39) % 26,056 13,154 12,902 98%(i) Cronos net revenue, excluding Cronos GrowCo net revenue is net revenue less Cronos GrowCo net revenue and is after intercompany eliminations. (ii) Cronos GrowCo net revenue is Cronos GrowCo's net revenue after intercompany eliminations.(iii) Gross margin is defined as gross profit divided by net revenue.(iv) See "Non-GAAP Measures" for more information, including a reconciliation of adjusted earnings (loss) before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA”) to net income (loss) and a reconciliation of Adjusted Gross Profit to gross profit.(v) Adjusted Gross Margin is defined as Adjusted Gross Profit divided by net revenue. See "Non-GAAP Measures” for more information.(vi) Dollar amounts are as of the last day of the period indicated.(vii) Capital expenditures represent component information of investing activities and is defined as the sum of purchase of property, plant and equipment, and purchase of intangible assets.Fourth Quarter2025Net revenue of $44.5 million in Q4 2025 increased by $14.2 million from Q4 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher cannabis flower sales in Israel and other countries, which carry no excise taxes, and higher cannabis flower and extract sales in the Canadian market.Gross profit of $16.2 million in Q4 2025 increased by $5.4 million from Q4 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher average sales prices driven primarily by a mix shift to Israel and other countries and higher sales volumes. Gross profit was positively impacted by $1.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 in connection with the finalization of the purchase accounting for the Cronos GrowCo Transaction. No such benefit was recognized in the fourth quarter of 2025.Adjusted Gross Profit of $16.2 million in Q4 2025 improved by $7.2 million from Q4 2024. The improvement was primarily driven by higher average sales prices driven primarily by a mix shift to Israel and other countries and higher sales volumes.Net loss of $0.5 million in Q4 2025, compared to net income of $43.9 million from Q4 2024. The change was primarily driven by foreign currency transaction losses in the current period compared with gains in the prior-year period, partially offset by higher gross profit.Adjusted EBITDA of $0.5 million in Q4 2025 improved by $7.7 million from Q4 2024. The improvement was primarily driven by higher Adjusted Gross Profit.Full-Year 2025Net revenue of $146.6 million in full-year 2025 increased by $29.0 million from full-year 2024. The increase was primarily due to higher cannabis flower sales in Israel and other countries, which carry no excise taxes, the inclusion of a full year of Cronos GrowCo sales in the current period, and higher cannabis extract sales in the Canadian market, partially offset by a decrease in cannabis flower sales in the Canadian market due to supply constraints. Cronos GrowCo contributed $10.3 million of cannabis flower sales in the year ended December 31, 2025, an increase of $6.4 million from 2024.Gross profit of $62.8 million in full-year 2025 increased by $37.6 million from full-year 2024. The increase was primarily due to lower amounts of inventory step-up from the Cronos GrowCo Transaction recognized into cost of sales, the consolidation of Cronos GrowCo, higher average sales prices driven primarily by a mix shift to Israel and other countries, higher sales volumes, and production efficiencies. For 2025 and 2024, gross profit was reduced $0.5 million and $5.3 million, respectively, as a result of the impact of the inventory step-up from the Cronos GrowCo Transaction that was recorded into cost of sales.Adjusted Gross Profit of $63.3 million in full-year 2025 increased by $32.8 million from full-year 2024. The increase year-over-year was primarily due to the consolidation of Cronos GrowCo, higher average sales prices driven primarily by a mix shift to Israel and other countries, higher sales volumes, and production efficiencies.Net loss of $2.9 million in full-year 2025, compared to net income of $40.0 million from full-year 2024. The change was primarily driven by foreign currency transaction losses in the current period compared with gains in the prior-year period, partially offset by higher gross profit and lower operating expenses.Adjusted EBITDA of $10.1 million in full-year 2025 improved by $45.1 million from full-year 2024. The improvement was primarily driven by higher Adjusted Gross Profit and lower operating expenses due to a decline in general and administrative costs.Business UpdatesBrand and Product PortfolioSpinach®2Spinach® maintained its position as one of Canada’s leading cannabis brands throughout 2025, consistently ranking #2 overall despite flower supply constraints that limited growth. In Q4 2025, Spinach® remained the #4 flower brand in Canada, with market share expanding modestly to 5.1%.SOURZ by Spinach® edibles continued to lead the edibles category, holding the #1 national market position each quarter. Achieving market share of 21.7% for the fourth quarter and over 20% for the full year, the brand continued to innovate, highlighted by the launch of SOURZ by Spinach® Fully Blasted formulations and various multipack launches. In Q4 2025, four SOURZ by Spinach® gummies products ranked among the top 10 edibles nationally, including the top-selling edibles SKU in Canada, the Fully Blasted Blue Raspberry Watermelon 10 Pack.Throughout 2025, the Spinach
2026-02-26 12:48:12

Anterix Deepens Collaboration with Qualcomm to Accelerate Utility Grid Connectivity
Collaboration Advances a Scalable Path to 5G for Anterix-Enabled Private Wireless NetworksWOODLAND PARK, N.J., Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Anterix (NASDAQ: ATEX), the market leader in mission-critical private wireless broadband spectrum for the utility sector, today announced an expanded collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies Inc. to accelerate adoption of next-generation connectivity for utilities and critical infrastructure operators nationwide.The collaboration underscores Anterix’s role in moving the utility industry beyond spectrum access to a complete private wireless connectivity platform - one that enables utilities to deploy, operate, and evolve private wireless broadband networks that support safer operations, greater resilience, and long-term grid modernization."Utilities and other critical infrastructure industries are essential to the nation’s security and economic vitality,” said Vivek Khanna, Vice President of Product Management at Qualcomm. "By collaborating with Anterix, the market leader in private broadband connectivity for utilities, Qualcomm is reinforcing our commitment to the utility market and giving utilities access to the chipset innovation needed to build a more secure, resilient, and connected energy future.”A key outcome of the collaboration between Anterix and Qualcomm is the development of new industrial-grade IoT chipsets optimized specifically for utility use cases at scale. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SDX35-3 and SDX32-3 IoT Modems will deliver 4G and 5G cellular connectivity on Anterix’s 900 MHz broadband platform, enabling greater distributed intelligence, operational visibility, and resilient communications at the grid edge. To date, eight utilities have selected Anterix-enabled private wireless as the foundation for next-generation grid connectivity."By joining forces with Qualcomm, we are giving utilities a clear, scalable roadmap to 5G - one that delivers immediate operational value while supporting long-term network evolution,” said Carlos L’ Abbate, Chief Technology & Engineering Officer at Anterix. "Building on the FCC's decision to expand the 900 MHz band to 10 MHz, this collaboration further future-proofs the adoption of private wireless, with Anterix-enabled networks serving as a foundation for smarter operations, stronger resilience, and a future-ready energy system.”The Snapdragon SDX35-3 IoT Cellular Modem already is being incorporated by members of the Anterix Active Ecosystem, including Easymetering, whose AMI 2.0 and grid-edge solutions demonstrate how utility-owned private wireless can support electrification, distributed energy resources, and enhanced customer engagement-while maintaining the reliability and security utilities require.Shareholder Contact Natasha Vecchiarelli Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications Anterix 973-531-4397 nvecchiarelli@anterix.com Media ContactPaul GaigeSenior Vice PresidentBurson504-957-1434Paul.Gaige@bursonglobal.comAbout AnterixAnterix is transforming how critical infrastructure stays connected. As the market leader in mission-critical private wireless broadband spectrum, Anterix delivers more secure, private 900 MHz licensed spectrum and advanced intelligent infrastructure solutions that enhance efficiency, strengthen resilience, and accelerate digital transformation. Backed by a growing ecosystem of industry-leading partners, Anterix provides the connectivity foundation that powers a more resourceful and resilient future. Learn more at www.anterix.com.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include statements that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future events or achievements such as statements in this press release related to Anterix’s business, plans and opportunities. Any such forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations of Anterix's management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause Anterix's actual future results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are identified and described in more detail in Anterix's most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q and in other filings that it makes with the SEC from time to time. These documents are available on Anterix's website at www.anterix.com under the Investor Relations section and on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Except as required by applicable law, Anterix undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein.
2026-02-26 12:48:08

North American Niobium Adds Sabot to Technical Review Pipeline
Rare earth element and niobium anomalies found in sediments and surrounding rocksVancouver, British Columbia, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Initial prospecting results and geological observations suggest that the broader area encompassing North American Niobium and Critical Minerals Corp.’s (CSE: NIOB) (OTCQB:NIOMF)(FSE: KS82.F) Bardy, Blanchette and Sabot projects in Québec may be comparable in style to the large rare-earth element (REE) deposits found in Greenland. As such, the Company has begun a technical review aimed at assessing Sabot’s potential to be incorporated into near-term exploration planning alongside the priority Bardy and Blanchette projects.HighlightsSabot added to near-term technical review pipeline based on recent prospecting results and geological context; Sabot is adjacent to the Company’s priority Bardy and Blanchette properties, supporting operational and logistical efficienciesProspecting grab sample (G170073) returned 0.155% total rare earth oxides (TREO) and 313.12 parts per million of magnet rare earth oxides (MREO), including 76.72 parts per million praseodymium (Pr) and 228.61 parts per million neodymium (Nd)Geological setting at Sabot includes an alkaline intrusion in contact with metasediments; textures observed in the intrusion suggest interaction between the alkaline magma and the metasedimentary host rocks - conditions that may have been ideal for the formation of a rare earth element (REE) and/or other critical element depositConceptual exploration targets include potential silica-rich roof/contact zones and/or upper portions of an alkaline system that may be associated with REE mineralization and other elements such as Niobium; additional surface work is required to refine and prioritize targets North American Niobium’s 100% owned Sabot Project is approximately 45 kilometres northwest of the La Tuque Municipality in Québec. Although the Company’s exploration strategy in the province has consistently focused on its Bardy, Blanchette, and Seigneurie projects, Sabot is close to Bardy and Blanchette. It benefits from existing regional access and the Company’s established stakeholder engagement efforts in the area. Sabot’s location supports a coordinated approach to target development and potential drill planning, subject to review and approvals.Sabot prospecting grab sample returns elevated rare earth element valuesA prospecting grab sample collected during Q4 2025 returned elevated rare earth element values. Results are summarized below.Table 1: Sabot Prospecting Grab Sample (Selected Result). MREO in this release refers to the combined content of Nd + Pr + Dy + Tb (reported in ppm) whereas TREO refers to total rare earth oxides.Sample IDProjectRock TypeTREO (%)MREO (ppm)*Pr (ppm)Nd (ppm) G170073 Sabot Granite 0.155 313.12 76.72 228.61 Grab samples are selective by nature and may not be representative of mineralization hosted on the Project.Geologic rationale and conceptual targetingThe Company has identified a syenitic intrusion in contact with silica-rich metasediments (the Wabamask metasedimentary complex is associated with quartzites) near the Sabot Prospect area. The intrusion is interpreted as part of a regional alkaline syenitic complex (~1019-1025 Ma) and is younger than the niobium-rare earth element pegmatite occurrences observed at Bardy and Blanchette (~1060-1070 Ma), suggesting that at least two temporally distinct Nb-REE mineralizing events are present within NIOB’s area of interest in the Grenville Proterozoic belt. Uranium-lead (U-Pb) age dating was completed in 2018 by the late Jean David (report MB201817).Government geologists in the field observed the presence of sedimentary xenoliths within the syenitic intrusions, which indicates interaction between the alkaline magma and the silica-rich country host rocks. This geological setting has proven to be associated with major deposits, such as the Motzfeldt Project in Greenland.Alkaline intrusion-related REE systems like the Motzfeldt Project can be large-tonnage in some cases. Motzfeldt has reported a large, inferred resource at the Aries deposit (JORC-compliant), cited in public disclosure as 340 million tonnes grading 0.26% TREO, 0.185% Nb205 and 0.46% ZrO2. The Company emphasizes that mineralization, resources, or deposits on other properties are not necessarily indicative of mineralization on Sabot, and such comparisons are provided for geological context only.On Sabot, the southern contact at the centre of the property of the Syenite intrusion (Rheaume Intrusive Suite) is associated with bottom-lake sediment anomalies (approx. 90th percentile) in La-Nb-Y (as compiled by the Government of Québec, report PRO 2009-03). These three elements can be indicative of REE-bearing syenitic intrusions. Finally, the syenite and the metasediments are associated with REE anomalies. This observation is conceptual and requires follow-up work, including additional geochemical coverage and geological validation.At this stage, the Company’s working interpretation is equally conceptual: Sabot may represent an upper portion of an alkaline system and/or a silica-rich roof/contact zone, either of which can be prospective environments for REE mineralization, and other critical elements such as Niobium, in certain geological settings. The Company cautions that additional geochemical and geological work is required to refine these conceptual targets and to assess the extent, style, and continuity of any potential mineralization.Figure 1: Sabot is located in the vicinity of the Blanchette and Bardy properties, immediately north of the Blanchette project, approximately 45 km northwest of La Tuque; across the area shown, multiple rare earth element (REE) prospects are present, some of which are associated with elevated niobium values and occur in spatial association with several alkaline intrusive suites.Please click to view image"While Sabot was not initially an immediate priority for the Company, results from our recent prospecting program, together with the geological setting, appear to warrant additional work,” said Murray Nye, Chief Executive Officer of North American Niobium. "Over the coming weeks, our technical team will review Sabot alongside our Québec portfolio to determine the most effective next steps ahead of any drilling decisions.”ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN NIOBIUM AND CRITICAL MINERALS CORP.North American Niobium and Critical Minerals Corp. is a North American mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of precious, base, and critical mineral assets. Its portfolio includes the Silver Lake property in British Columbia’s Omineca Mining Division and a recently acquired land package in Québec’s Grenville Province. The Québec properties add exposure to rare earth elements (REE), niobium (Nb), and nickel-copper (Ni-Cu) occurrences, expanding the Company’s footprint into critical minerals that are strategically important for energy and defense applications.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Murray NyeChief Executive Officer1055 West Georgia Street, Suite 1500Vancouver, BC V6E 0B6CanadaFor further information, please contact:Murray Nye, CEOEmail: info@northamericanniobium.comPhone: +1 (647) 984-4204CSE:NIOBOTCQB: NIOMFFSE:KS82.FFORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTSThis news release contains "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events, results, outcomes or developments that the Company expects, anticipates or intends to occur in the future, or that otherwise reflect management’s expectations or beliefs about future events, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of words and phrases such as "expects,” "plans,” "anticipates,” "believes,” "intends,” "estimates,” "projects,” "potential,” "opportunity,” "strategy,” "target,” "forecast” and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will,” "would,” "may,” "could,” or "should” occur or be achieved.Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to: (i) statements regarding the Properties and their mineral prospectivity; (ii) the Company’s planned exploration, development and evaluation activities on the Properties; and (iii) the potential for the Grenville Province to host significant rare earth element, niobium, nickel-copper or other critical mineral deposits. Such forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current plans, intentions, expectations and beliefs and are subject to certain assumptions, including, without limitation, assumptions that exploration results will continue to support the prospectivity of the Properties.Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance or outcomes and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated include, but are not limited to: the timing and receipt of required regulatory approvals; changes in commodity prices and market conditions; the availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms; general economic, business and political conditions; risks inherent in mineral exploration and development, including operational risks, geological uncertainties, environmental risks and accidents; changes in government regulation or policy; and the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development. Additional information regarding risks and uncertainties faced by the Company is available in the Company’s public disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are made as of the date hereof and are based on information currently available and management’s beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions at that time. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Qualified PersonThe scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101”). Clyde McMillan, P.Geo., a consultant to the Company and a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained herein.The Company also wishes to acknowledge and pay tribute to the late Jean David for his important contributions to Québec geoscience, including the U-Pb geochronological work referenced herein.The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release
2026-02-26 12:48:00

'Too much division' in NUP over VP Duterte impeachment, says Puno
National Unity Party (NUP) Chairman Antipolo City 1st district Rep. Ronaldo "Ronnie" Puno admits that there\'s "too much division" in the party when it comes to the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte.“I doubt that there will be a uniform party stand here because there is just too much division among our members," Puno told House reporters in an interview Thursday, Feb. 26."So the tendency now or the direction now is that we probably will have para kaya conscience vote na (something like a conscience vote) that everybody will be allowed to vote the way he wants to vote,” said the House deputy speaker.The Committee on Justice is scheduled to begin tackling Vice President Duterte\'s four impeachment complaints on Monday, March 2.Rather out of the blue, the NUP--the second biggest political party in the House of Representatives in terms of membership--came out with a supoosed party stand on Wednesday night, Feb. 25.In the statement that was attributed to NUP Secretary General Reginald Velasco, the party said that if would only vote in favor of Duterte\'s impeachment only if it sees "compelling new evidence".This was a surprise to some, especially since the NUP--along with Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD)--were viewed as the main drivers of the impeachment proceedings against the same official last year under the previous 19th Congress.One of the endorsers of the fourth complaint filed against Duterte--Manila 6th district Rep. Bienvenido "Benny" Abante--is even an NUP stalwart.While he echoed some of the points in the statement, Puno clarified that it was merely a "consensus" of the people from NUP that he spoke with.There are just over 40 NUP members in the 316-strong House of Representatives. “No, this is not the party stand. This is just the consensus of the ones that I have talked to.We will have another formal meeting,” the Antipolo lawmaker said.Puno further said of the impeachment proceedings: "There\'s no clear bias or leaning towards either side at this point. So we are very divided right now. So we ended up with let\'s see what the evidence will show.”Last Feb. 18, Vice President Duterte announced her plan to run for the Palace seat in 2028.
2026-02-26 12:48:00

Vera Therapeutics Provides Business Update and Reports Full Year 2025 Financial Results
Positive Phase 3 data from ORIGIN 3 study of atacicept in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) presented at American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Kidney Week and published in the New England Journal of MedicineU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted priority review to Biologics License Application (BLA) for ataciceptwith Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date of July 7, 2026; potential commercial launch of atacicept expected in mid-2026Strong balance sheet bolstered by equity and debt financings in 2025 expected to be sufficient to fund company beyond atacicept approval and U.S. commercial launch BRISBANE, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vera Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: VERA), a late clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing transformative treatments for patients with serious immunological diseases, today reported its business highlights and financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2025."In 2025, Vera Therapeutics delivered on several key milestones as we advanced atacicept toward potential FDA approval and commercialization,” said Marshall Fordyce, M.D., Founder and CEO of Vera Therapeutics. "The BLA has been granted priority review and we expect to be commercially prepared to successfully launch atacicept in IgAN in mid-2026 if approved. Our commercial team brings decades of experience launching innovative therapies and is eager to bring this potentially disease-modifying therapy to patients with IgAN and other autoimmune kidney diseases.”"Vera Therapeutics has established a leadership position within the IgAN space based on the compelling profile of atacicept. Data from the ORIGIN clinical program have shown that blocking BAFF and APRIL with atacicept results in clinically meaningful reductions to proteinuria, Gd-IgA1, and hematuria (Phase 2 and 3) and a stabilization of eGFR (Phase 2),” said Robert M. Brenner, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Vera Therapeutics. "Vera is confident in the strength of the atacicept data package to support approval and deliver a potential new therapy to the IgAN patients and caregivers whom we serve.”Key Full Year 2025 and Recent Business HighlightsPositive primary endpoint results from the ORIGIN Phase 3 clinical trial of atacicept for the treatment of IgAN were presented in a featured late-breaking oral presentation during the opening plenary session of ASN Kidney Week 2025 and published in the New England Journal of MedicineFDA granted priority review to the atacicept BLA for the treatment of IgAN in adults, and assigned a PDUFA target action date of July 7, 2026; Vera Therapeutics plans for a potential commercial launch in mid-2026Matt Skelton, Chief Commercial Officer, advancing preparations for U.S. commercial launchAppointed James R. Meyers, an accomplished biopharmaceutical executive with over three decades of commercial leadership experience, to Board of DirectorsSuccessfully completed an equity financing and entered into a debt agreement resulting in combined potential gross proceeds of $800 million, strengthening Vera Therapeutics’ balance sheet to fund operations beyond the potential approval and U.S. commercial launch of ataciceptAnticipated Upcoming MilestonesPotential FDA approval of atacicept in IgAN - PDUFA date of July 7, 2026Planned U.S. commercial launch of atacicept, pending FDA approval - mid-2026Initial results from PIONEER - a Phase 2 basket trial evaluating atacicept in expanded IgAN populations, and other autoimmune kidney diseases - expected in 1H 2026Pivotal ORIGIN 3 study completion with two-year eGFR data - expected in 2027Financial Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2025For the year ended December 31, 2025, Vera Therapeutics reported a net loss of $299.6 million, or a net loss per diluted share of $4.66, compared to a net loss of $152.1 million, or a net loss per diluted share of $2.75, for the year ended December 31, 2024.During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash used in operating activities was $241.1 million, compared to $134.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.Vera Therapeutics reported $714.6 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as of December 31, 2025, which combined with availability under its debt facility, Vera Therapeutics believes to be sufficient to fund operations through potential approval and U.S. commercial launch of atacicept and beyond.About Atacicept Atacicept is an investigational recombinant fusion protein that contains the soluble transmembrane activator and calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) receptor that binds to the cytokines B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand (APRIL). These cytokines are members of the tumor necrosis factor family that promote B-cell survival and autoantibody production associated with IgAN, lupus nephritis, and other autoimmune kidney diseases.About the Atacicept Clinical Program The ORIGIN Phase 2b clinical trial of atacicept in IgAN met its primary and key secondary endpoints, with statistically significant and clinically meaningful proteinuria reductions and stabilization of eGFR versus placebo through 36 weeks. The safety profile during the randomized period was comparable between atacicept and placebo. Through 96 weeks, atacicept demonstrated further improvements in Gd-IgA1, hematuria, and proteinuria, as well as stabilization of eGFR reflecting a profile consistent with that of the general population without IgAN.The ORIGIN Phase 3 trial met the primary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in proteinuria at week 36, in the prespecified interim analysis. Across the ORIGIN program in IgAN, the safety profile of atacicept appears favorable, and comparable to placebo. The trial continues in a placebo-controlled blinded manner to evaluate the change in kidney function over two years as measured by eGFR, with results expected in 2027. For more information about ORIGIN 3, please visit http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.Atacicept has received FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for the treatment of IgAN, which reflects the FDA’s determination that, based on an assessment of data from the ORIGIN Phase 2b clinical trial, atacicept may demonstrate substantial improvement on a clinically significant endpoint over available therapies for patients with IgAN. Vera Therapeutics believes atacicept is positioned for best-in-class potential, targeting B cells to reduce autoantibodies and having been administered to more than 1,500 patients in clinical trials across different disease areas.The ORIGIN Extend study provides ORIGIN study participants with extended access to atacicept until its potential commercial availability in their region and captures longer-term safety and efficacy data. Atacicept is also being evaluated in expanded IgAN populations, anti-PLA2R positive primary membranous nephropathy, and anti-nephrin positive focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and minimal change disease (MCD) patients in the PIONEER trial.About Vera TherapeuticsVera Therapeutics is a late clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing treatments for serious immunological diseases. Vera Therapeutics’ mission is to advance treatments that target the source of disease in order to change the standard of care for patients. Vera Therapeutics’ lead product candidate is atacicept, a fusion protein self-administered at home as a subcutaneous once weekly injection that blocks both BAFF and APRIL, which stimulate B cells to produce autoantibodies contributing to certain autoimmune diseases, including IgAN and lupus nephritis. Beyond IgAN, Vera Therapeutics is evaluating additional diseases where the reduction of autoantibodies by atacicept may prove clinically meaningful. In addition, Vera Therapeutics holds an exclusive license agreement with Stanford University for a novel, next generation fusion protein targeting BAFF and APRIL, known as VT-109, with wide therapeutic potential across the spectrum of B-cell-mediated diseases. Vera Therapeutics is also evaluating development of MAU868, a monoclonal antibody designed to neutralize infection with BK virus, which can have devastating consequences in kidney transplant recipients. Vera Therapeutics retains all global developmental and commercial rights to atacicept, VT-109 and MAU868. For more information, please visit www.veratx.com.Forward-looking StatementsStatements contained in this press release regarding matters, events or results that may occur in the future are "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include statements regarding, among other things, approval of atacicept by the FDA, including expected timing; the timing, preparedness and success of the commercial launch of atacicept in the U.S.; the ability of atacicept to be a disease-modifying therapy for patients with IgAN and other autoimmune kidney diseases; Vera Therapeutics' confidence in the strength of the atacicept data package to support FDA approval; Vera Therapeutics' ability to fund operations beyond anticipated approval and U.S. commercial launch of atacicept; timing of initial results from PIONEER and completion of ORIGIN 3; atacicept’s positioning for best-in-class potential; and the plans, commitments, aspirations and goals under the caption "About Vera Therapeutics”. Words such as "anticipate,” "believe,” "expect,” "may,” "plan,” "potential,” "will” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon Vera Therapeutics’ current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, risks related to the regulatory approval process, results of earlier clinical trials may not be obtained in later clinical trials, preliminary results may not be predictive of topline results, risks and uncertainties associated with Vera Therapeutics’ business in general, the impact of macroeconomic and geopolitical events, and the other risks described in Vera Therapeutics' filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management’s assumptions and estimates as of such date. Vera Therapeutics undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as required by law.For more information, please contact:Investor Contact:Joyce AllaireLifeSci Advisors212-915-2569jallaire@lifesciadvisors.comMedia Contact:Debra CharlesworthVera Therapeutics415-854-8051corporatecommunications@veratx.comVERA THERAPEUTICS, INC.Condensed Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)(Unaudited) For the Year Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Operating expenses: Research and development $215,256 $126,172 General and administrative 100,217 40,998 Total operating expenses 315,473 167,170 Loss from operations (315,473) (167,170)Other income, net 15,859 15,023 Provision for income taxes (1) (1)Net loss $(299,615) $(152,148)Change in fair value on marketable securities 393 142 Comprehensive loss $(299,222) $(152,006)Net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted $(4.66) $(2.75)Weighted-average shares used in computing net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted 64,233,814 55,326,680 VERA THERAPEUTICS, INC.Condensed Balance Sheets(in thousands)(Unaudited) December 31, 2025 2024 Assets Current assets: Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities$714,589 $640,852 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 14,294 10,366 Total current assets 728,883 651,218 Operating lease right-of-use assets 1,923 3,372 Other noncurrent assets 3,927 1,091 Total assets$734,733 $655,681 Liabilities and stockholders' equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable$21,898 $7,665 Operating lease liabilities 549 1,483 Accrued expenses and other liabilities, current 31,008 16,223 Total current liabilities 53,455 25,371 Long-term debt 74,838 50,687 Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent 1,919 2,468 Total liabilities 130,212 78,526 Stockholders' equity Common stock 71 64 Additional paid-in-capital 1,364,529 1,037,948 Accumulated other comprehensive income 786 393 Accumulated deficit (760,865) (461,250)Total stockholders' equity 604,521 577,155 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$734,733 $655,681
2026-02-26 12:47:55

Consolidated Lithium Metals Announces $17.07 Million Private Placement Financing
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESTORONTO, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Consolidated Lithium Metals Inc. (TSXV: CLM | FRA: Z36 | OTCQB: JORFF) ("CLM” or the "Company”) announces today that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement offering (the "Offering”) of securities of the Company for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of up to $17,070,000, in a combination of:a) up to 31,250,000 units of the Company that will be issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (as defined herein) and other available exemptions from Canadian prospectus requirements as further described herein (each, a "LIFE Unit”) at a price of $0.08 per LIFE Unit for up to $2,500,000 in gross proceeds. Each LIFE Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share”) and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant”);b) up to 50,000,000 flow-through shares of the Company (each, a "Critical FT Share”) at a price of $0.10 per Critical FT Share for up to $5,000,000 in gross proceeds. Each Critical FT Share will consist of one Common Share that will qualify as a "flow-through share” within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act”); andc) up to 79,750,000 flow-through units of the Company that will be issued as part of a charity arrangement (each, a "Charity FT Unit” and collectively, with the LIFE Units and Critical FT Shares, the "Offered Securities”) at price of $0.12 per Charity FT Unit, and will be issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption and other available exemptions from Canadian prospectus requirements as further described herein, for up to $9,570,000 in gross proceeds. Each Charity FT Unit will consist of one Common Share and one-half of one Warrant that will each qualify as a "flow-through share” within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Tax Act.Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.12 for a period of 36 months from the closing date of the Offering. Warrants sold pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be exercisable until 60 days from the closing date of the Offering.The LIFE Units and the Charity FT Units will be offered for sale to purchasers in all provinces of Canada pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption”) under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106”) and the Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 - Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. The LIFE Units, the Critical FT Shares and the Charity FT Units will also be offered for sale to purchasers in all provinces of Canada pursuant to other exemptions from the prospectus requirements, including those available under NI 45-106. The Company will ensure that the total number of LIFE Units and Charity FT Units issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption, together with all issuances of common shares and warrants issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption in the preceding 12 month period, will not exceed 50% of its outstanding listed equity securities as of the date immediately preceding the Company’s first issuance of securities pursuant to such prospectus exemption during the preceding 12 month period.Offered Securities that will be issued under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws and all Offered Securities issued under other exemptions under NI 45-106 will be subject to a statutory four-month hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.Finder’s fees may be paid to eligible finders in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV”) consisting of a cash commission equal to up to 8% of the gross proceeds raised under the Offering and finder warrants ("Finder Warrants”) in an amount equal to up to 8% of the number of Offered Securities sold pursuant to the Offering at an exercise price equal to the $0.08 per Finder Warrant for Finder Warrants issued due to sales of LIFE Units, $0.10 per Finder Warrant for Finder Warrants issued due to sales of Critical FT Shares, and $0.12 per Finder Warrant for Finder Warrants issued due to sales of Charity FT Units. Each Finder Warrant shall consist of one Common Share and one-half of one Warrant.The Company intends to use the gross proceeds from the Offering for exploration expenses and critical mineral mining expenditures on the Kwyjibo Rare Earth Project (the "Project”), as detailed in the Company’s press release dated November 18, 2025, and its lithium properties and for working capital and general corporate purposes. The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the Critical FT Shares and Charity FT Units, pursuant to the provisions in the Tax Act, to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses” that qualify as "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures” as both terms are defined in the Tax Act (the "Qualifying Expenditures”) related to the Project and its lithium properties in Quebec, Canada on or before December 31, 2027, and to renounce all the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the purchasers of the Critical FT Shares and Charity FT Units effective December 31, 2026. In the event that the Company is unable to renounce or incur 100% of the Qualifying Expenditures, the Company will indemnify each purchaser of Critical FT Shares and/or Charity FT Units, as applicable, for the additional taxes payable to such purchaser as a result of the Company’s failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures as agreed.Completion of the Offering is subject to regulatory approvals, including the TSXV.There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and at the Company’s website at www.consolidatedlithium.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.U.S. Offering and No U.S. Registration The Company may also offer the Offered Securities for sale pursuant to exemptions from the prospectus requirement under Ontario Securities Commission Rule 72-503 - Distributions Outside of Canada in the United States ("U.S.”) pursuant to available exemptions from the registration requirements of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and in certain other jurisdictions outside of Canada and the U.S. provided it is understood that no prospectus filing or comparable obligation, ongoing reporting requirement or requisite regulatory or governmental approval arises in such other jurisdictions.The securities described herein have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the U.S. or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any U.S. state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.About Consolidated Lithium MetalsCLM is a Canadian junior mining exploration company trading under the symbol "CLM” on the TSX Venture Exchange, "Z36” on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and "JORFF” on the OTCQB® Venture Market. The Company is focused on the exploration and development of critical mineral projects in stable jurisdictions. The Company is committed to supporting the energy transition through the responsible development of critical mineral supply chains.Additional information on CLM can be found on its website at: www.consolidatedlithium.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.For Further Information, Contact:Rene BhartiVice President Corp. Dev.Email: info@consolidatedlithium.comPhone: +1 (647) 965 2173Website: www.consolidatedlithium.comAdvisors: Wildeboer Dellelce LLP is acting as legal counsel for CLM in respect of the Offering. CLM has engaged Integrity Capital Group Inc., BT Global Growth Inc., Independent Trading Group (ITG), Inc. and Kernaghan & Partners Ltd. to support its efforts. For further information, contact Jeremy Rogers at jrogers@integritycapitalgrp.com or 647-998-4212.Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking InformationThis news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to anticipated business plans or strategies, including the Offering, regulatory and TSXV approvals of the Offering and the use of proceeds of the Offering, including Qualifying Expenditures. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of CLM to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including risks related to:regulatory approvals, such as approval of the TSXV of the Offering; general business, economic, competitive, political, social, and market conditions; accidents, labour disputes and shortages; and other risks of the mining industry. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and CLM disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
2026-02-26 12:47:43

FTI Consulting Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Financial Results
Fourth Quarter 2025 Record Revenues of $990.7 Million, Up 11% Compared to $894.9 Million in Prior Year QuarterFourth Quarter 2025 EPS and Adjusted EPS of $1.78, Up 29% and 14%, Compared to EPS of $1.38 and Adjusted EPS of $1.56 in Prior Year Quarter Full Year 2025 Record Revenues of $3.789 Billion, Up 2% Compared to $3.699 Billion in Prior YearFull Year 2025 Record EPS of $8.24 and Adjusted EPS of $8.83, Up 6% and 11%, Compared to EPS of $7.81 and Adjusted EPS of $7.99 in Prior YearIntroduces 2026 Guidance WASHINGTON, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FTI Consulting, Inc. (NYSE: FCN) today released financial results for the full year and fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025.For the full year 2025, revenues of $3.789 billion increased $90.2 million, or 2.4%, compared to revenues of $3.699 billion in the prior year. The increase was driven by revenue growth in the Corporate Finance, Forensic and Litigation Consulting and Strategic Communications segments, which was partially offset by revenue declines in the Economic Consulting and Technology segments. Net income of $270.9 million compared to $280.1 million in the prior year. The decrease in net income was primarily due to higher direct costs, which included an increase in variable compensation and forgivable loan amortization, as well as an increase in income taxes, special charges and interest expense, which more than offset the increase in revenues and the decrease in selling, general and administrative ("SG&A”) expenses. Adjusted EBITDA of $463.6 million, or 12.2% of revenues, compared to $403.7 million, or 10.9% of revenues, in the prior year.Full year 2025 earnings per diluted share ("EPS”) of $8.24 compared to $7.81 in the prior year. Full year 2025 EPS included a $25.3 million special charge related to severance and other employee-related costs, which reduced EPS by $0.59. Full year 2024 EPS included an $8.2 million special charge related to severance and other employee-related costs, which reduced EPS by $0.18. Full year 2025 Adjusted EPS of $8.83 compared to Adjusted EPS of $7.99 in the prior year.Steven H. Gunby, CEO and Chairman of FTI Consulting, commented, "We delivered our eleventh year in a row of Adjusted EPS growth and our eighth year in a row of record revenues. We delivered those record results notwithstanding the major headwinds that we were facing in a couple of our businesses during the year, which underscores, once again, the power and resilience of a business committed to investing in great talent and helping clients with their most significant challenges and opportunities.”Cash Position and Capital AllocationNet cash provided by operating activities of $152.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $395.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The year-over-year decrease in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to higher forgivable loan issuances, compensation and income tax payments, which was partially offset by an increase in cash collections.Cash and cash equivalents of $265.1 million at December 31, 2025 compared to $660.5 million at December 31, 2024 and $146.0 million at September 30, 2025. Total debt, net of cash, of $99.9 million at December 31, 2025 compared to $(660.5) million at December 31, 2024 and $364.0 million at September 30, 2025. The sequential decrease in total debt, net of cash, was primarily due to net cash provided by operating activities.During the quarter ended December 31, 2025, the Company repurchased 519,944 shares of its common stock at an average price per share of $160.58 for a total cost of $83.5 million. In full year 2025, the Company repurchased 5,264,916 shares of its common stock at an average price per share of $163.07 for a total cost of $858.6 million. As of December 31, 2025, approximately $491.8 million remained available for common stock repurchases under the Company’s stock repurchase program.Fourth Quarter 2025 ResultsFourth quarter 2025 revenues of $990.7 million increased $95.8 million, or 10.7%, compared to revenues of $894.9 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues increased $81.5 million, or 9.1%, compared to the prior year quarter. The increase was driven by revenue growth in the Corporate Finance, Forensic and Litigation Consulting, Strategic Communications and Technology segments, which was partially offset by revenue declines in the Economic Consulting segment. Net income of $54.5 million compared to $49.7 million in the prior year quarter. The increase in net income was primarily due to higher revenues, which was partially offset by an increase in direct costs, which includes higher variable compensation and forgivable loan amortization, as well as an increase in income taxes, interest expense and SG&A expenses compared to the prior year quarter. The increase in income taxes was primarily driven by $11.8 million of valuation allowance expenses against certain prior year foreign deferred tax assets. Adjusted EBITDA of $106.2 million, or 10.7% of revenues, compared to $73.7 million, or 8.2% of revenues, in the prior year quarter.Fourth quarter 2025 EPS of $1.78 compared to $1.38 in the prior year quarter. Fourth quarter 2025 EPS included the aforementioned valuation allowance on certain prior year foreign deferred tax assets, which reduced EPS by $0.38. Fourth quarter 2024 EPS included the aforementioned $8.2 million special charge, which reduced EPS by $0.18. Fourth quarter 2025 Adjusted EPS of $1.78 compared to $1.56 in the prior year quarter.Fourth Quarter 2025 Segment ResultsCorporate FinanceRevenues in the Corporate Finance segment increased $87.5 million, or 26.1%, to $423.2 million in the quarter compared to $335.7 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues increased $82.8 million, or 24.7%. The increase in revenues was primarily due to increased demand and higher realized bill rates for turnaround & restructuring, transactions and transformation services, as well as an increase in success fees. Segment operating income of $76.7 million compared to $36.1 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $80.1 million, or 18.9% of segment revenues, compared to $44.7 million, or 13.3% of segment revenues, in the prior year quarter. The increase in Adjusted Segment EBITDA was primarily due to higher revenues, which was partially offset by an increase in compensation, largely related to variable compensation, higher SG&A expenses and an increase in pass-through expenses.Forensic and Litigation ConsultingRevenues in the Forensic and Litigation Consulting segment increased $17.0 million, or 9.7%, to $192.9 million in the quarter compared to $175.9 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues increased $15.1 million, or 8.6%.The increase in revenues was primarily due to higher realized bill rates for risk & investigations services. Segment operating income of $21.6 million compared to $14.3 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $23.8 million, or 12.3% of segment revenues, compared to $18.0 million, or 10.2% of segment revenues, in the prior year quarter. The increase in Adjusted Segment EBITDA was primarily due to higher revenues, which was partially offset by an increase in variable compensation.Economic ConsultingRevenues in the Economic Consulting segment decreased $29.9 million, or 14.5%, to $176.2 million in the quarter compared to $206.1 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues decreased $34.1 million, or 16.6%. The decrease in revenues was primarily due to lower demand for non-merger and acquisition ("M&A”)-related antitrust and M&A-related antitrust services, which was partially offset by increased demand for financial economics services and higher realized bill rates for international arbitration services. Segment operating loss of $0.3 million compared to segment operating income of $14.4 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $1.0 million, or 0.6% of segment revenues, compared to $15.8 million, or 7.7% of segment revenues, in the prior year quarter. The decrease in Adjusted Segment EBITDA was primarily due to lower revenues and an increase in forgivable loan amortization, which was partially offset by lower compensation, which includes lower variable compensation and the impact of an 8.6% decline in billable headcount, and lower bad debt.TechnologyRevenues in the Technology segment increased $8.4 million, or 9.3%, to $99.0 million in the quarter compared to $90.6 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues increased $7.2 million, or 7.9%. The increase in revenues was primarily due to higher demand for litigation and M&A-related "second request” services. Segment operating income of $10.7 million compared to $1.3 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $14.8 million, or 14.9% of segment revenues, compared to $6.6 million, or 7.2% of segment revenues, in the prior year quarter. The increase in Adjusted Segment EBITDA was primarily due to higher revenues.Strategic CommunicationsRevenues in the Strategic Communications segment increased $12.8 million, or 14.8%, to $99.4 million in the quarter compared to $86.6 million in the prior year quarter. Excluding the estimated positive impact of FX, revenues increased $10.4 million, or 12.1%. The increase in revenues was primarily due to higher demand for corporate reputation services and a $5.3 million increase in pass-through revenues. Segment operating income of $18.0 million compared to $12.5 million in the prior year quarter. Adjusted Segment EBITDA of $19.0 million, or 19.2% of segment revenues, compared to $13.8 million, or 15.9% of segment revenues, in the prior year quarter. The increase in Adjusted Segment EBITDA was primarily due to higher revenues, which was partially offset by increases in pass-through expenses and variable compensation.2026 GuidanceThe Company estimates that revenues for full year 2026 will range between $3.940 billion and $4.100 billion. The Company estimates that EPS for full year 2026 will range between $8.90 and $9.60. The Company does not expect Adjusted EPS to differ from EPS.Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Conference CallFTI Consulting will host a conference call for analysts and investors to discuss fourth quarter and full year 2025 financial results at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The call can be accessed live and will be available for replay over the internet for 90 days by logging onto the Company’s investor relations website here.About FTI ConsultingFTI Consulting, Inc. is a leading global expert firm for organizations facing crisis and transformation, with more than 8,100 employees located in 32 countries and territories as of December 31, 2025. In certain jurisdictions, FTI Consulting’s services are provided through distinct legal entities that are separately capitalized and independently managed. The Company generated $3.80 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2025. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.Non-GAAP Financial MeasuresIn the accompanying analysis of financial information, we sometimes use information derived from consolidated and segment financial information that may not be presented in our financial statements or prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). Certain of these financial measures are considered not in conformity with GAAP ("non-GAAP financial measures")under the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") rules. Specifically, we have referred to the following non-GAAP financial measures:Adjusted Segment EBITDAAdjusted EBITDAAdjusted EBITDA MarginAdjusted Net IncomeAdjusted Earnings per Diluted ShareWe have included the definition of Segment Operating Income (Loss), which is a GAAP financial measure, below in order to more fully define the components of certain non-GAAP financial measures in the accompanying analysis of financial information. We define Segment Operating Income (Loss) as a segment’s share of consolidated operating income. We use Segment Operating Income (Loss) for the purpose of calculating Adjusted Segment EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. We define Adjusted Segment EBITDA as Segment Operating Income (Loss) before depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, remeasurement of acquisition-related contingent consideration, special charges and goodwill impairment charges. We use Adjusted Segment EBITDA as a basis to internally evaluate the financial performance of our segments because we believe it reflects core operating performance and provides an indicator of the segment’s ability to generate cash.We define Adjusted EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as consolidated net income before income tax provision, other non-operating income (expense), depreciation, amortization of intangible assets, remeasurement of acquisition-related contingent consideration, special charges, goodwill impairment charges, gain or loss on sale of a business and losses on early extinguishment of debt. We define Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, as Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of total revenues. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, when considered together with our GAAP financial results and GAAP financial measures, provide management and investors with a more complete understanding of our operating results, including underlying trends. In addition, EBITDA is a common alternative measure of operating performance used by many of our competitors. It is used by investors, financial analysts, rating agencies and others to value and compare the financial performance of companies in our industry. Therefore, we also believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, considered along with corresponding GAAP financial measures, provide management and investors with useful supplemental information.We define Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Earnings per Diluted Share ("Adjusted EPS"), which are non-GAAP financial measures, as net income and EPS, respectively, excluding the impact of remeasurement of acquisition-related contingent consideration, special charges, goodwill impairment charges, the gain or loss on sale of a business and losses on early extinguishment of debt. We use Adjusted Net Income for the purpose of calculating Adjusted EPS. Management uses Adjusted EPS to assess total Company operating performance on a consistent basis. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures, when considered together with our GAAP financial results and GAAP financial measures, provide management and investors with useful supplemental information on our business operating results, including underlying trends.Non-GAAP financial measures are not defined in the same manner by all companies and may not be comparable with other similarly titled measures of other companies. Non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for or superior to, the information contained in our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in the financial tables accompanying this press release.Safe Harbor StatementThis press release includes "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. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including among other things, statements about future events, anticipated growth, industry prospects, our future results of operations and financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements often contain words such as "may,” "might,” "will,” "should,” "could,” "would,” "estimates,” "expects,” "anticipates,” "projects,” "plans,” "intends,” "believes,” "commits,” "aspires,” "forecasts,” "future,” "goal,” "seeks” and variations of such words or similar expressions. There are a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in, or implied by, this press release. Although we believe that the expectations and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can provide no assurance that these expectations and assumptions will prove to be correct. These forward-looking statements relate to future events, results and outcomes, are inherently uncertain and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results and outcomes, and the timing of our results and outcomes, to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment, and new risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results or outcomes to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this press release include those set forth under the heading "Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 filed with the SEC on February 26, 2026 as well as in other information that we file with the SEC from time to time. All forward-looking statements are presented as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included herein. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement for any reason.FINANCIAL TABLES FOLLOWFTI CONSULTING, INC.CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(in thousands, except per share amounts) December 31, December 31, 2025 2024 Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents$265,091 $660,493 Accounts receivable, net 1,037,678 1,020,174 Current portion of notes receivable 87,861 44,894 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 126,997 93,953 Total current assets 1,517,627 1,819,514 Property and equipment, net 169,333 150,295 Operating lease assets 201,492 198,318 Goodwill 1,242,777 1,226,556 Intangible assets, net 13,547 16,770 Notes receivable, net 250,667 109,119 Other assets 95,085 76,258 Total assets$3,490,528 $3,596,830 Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other$206,247 $224,394 Accrued compensation 712,335 639,745 Billings in excess of services provided 56,607 67,620 Total current liabilities 975,189 931,759 Long-term debt 365,000 - Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 224,510 208,036 Deferred income taxes 99,611 111,825 Other liabilities 92,487 86,920 Total liabilities 1,756,797 1,338,540 Stockholders’ equity Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; shares authorized - 5,000; noneoutstanding - - Common stock, $0.01 par value; shares authorized - 75,000; sharesissued and outstanding - 30,864 (2025) and 35,913 (2024) 309 359 Additional paid-in capital 354 39,650 Retained earnings 1,862,672 2,394,853 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (129,604) (176,572)Total stockholders’ equity 1,733,731 2,258,290 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$3,490,528 $3,596,830 FTI CONSULTING, INC.CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME(in thousands, except per share data) Three Months EndedDecember 31, 2025 2024 (Unaudited)Revenues$990,746 $894,924 Operating expenses Direct cost of revenues 683,080 624,864 Selling, general and administrative expenses 213,601 208,051 Special charges - 8,230 Amortization of intangible assets 629 1,034 897,310 842,179 Operating income 93,436 52,745 Other income (expense) Interest income and other 864 7,779 Interest expense (7,537) (716) (6,673) 7,063 Income before income tax provision 86,763 59,808
2026-02-26 12:47:40

US House rejects bill requiring aircraft locators to prevent midair collisions
The House failed to approve a bill Tuesday that was crafted after last year’s tragic midair collision near Washington, D.C., to require all aircraft flying around busy airports to have key locator systems to prevent such crashes. The collision of an airliner and an Army helicopter killed 67 people in January 2025.The National Transportation Safety Board has been recommending such Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast systems to be installed since 2008. The bill that already passed the Senate would have required aircraft to be equipped with a system that can receive data about the locations of other aircraft. The complementary ADS-B Out system that broadcasts an aircraft’s location is already required.The families of the victims who died when an American Airlines jet collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter strongly supported the measure, and a number of them watched the vote from the House gallery. But the Airlines for American trade group, the military and the major general aviation groups that represent business jets and small plane owners backed a competing and more comprehensive House bill that was just introduced last week.Tim Lilley, whose son Sam was the first officer on the airliner, said he’s really disappointed, but he and the other families will continue to press for meaningful reforms. And he hopes that will happen before the next tragedy.“We’re going to end up back here having the same conversation because of another midair (collision) is what’s going to happen. Hopefully — fingers crossed — that doesn’t,” Lilley said.Under the special process that was used to fast-track the bill, the ROTOR Act needed to receive more than two-thirds support to pass the House. It received 264 votes, but 133 other representatives voted against it. ROTOR stands for “Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform.”House Speaker Mike Johnson told The Associated Press that the Senate and the House will work together to get an aviation safety bill done. “We're committed to it,” he said.And House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves said the House bill could be marked up in committee as soon as next week. That bill is designed to address all 50 of the recommendations the NTSB made, not just the locator technology, but NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy has said the House bill falls short of accomplishing that.But Lilley said the bill Graves helped write needs to be strengthened.“They’ve had 18 years to get it right. He’s talking about getting it right and he’s not even close on the collision avoidance piece,” he said.The cost of the ADS-B In mandate has been a concern. It’s not clear exactly how much it would cost partly because the systems haven’t yet been designed and certified for every aircraft, but Homendy testified in Congress that American Airlines was able to equip more than 300 of its Airbus a321s for $50,000 apiece, and general aviation pilots have the option of using a portable receiver that costs about $400 and works with an iPad.One of the key researchers who helped develop these locator systems, Fabrice Kunzi, said a plane’s dashboard shouldn’t have to be overhauled to add a new display because the system is designed to give pilots an audible warning about nearby traffic with details of their locations if there is a risk of a collision.House and Senate bills took a different approachThe key difference between the bills is that the House version would not require both kinds of the proven Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast systems to be installed. Instead, the House bill would require the Federal Aviation Administration to investigate what technology might be best as part of a lengthy rulemaking process before requiring a solution. The House bill also covers many more aspects of the systemic failures the NTSB identified as causing the crash on the evening of Jan. 29, 2025.The bipartisan group of Senate leaders behind the ROTOR Act — led by Republican Ted Cruz and Democrat Maria Cantwell — had argued their bill would be a good first step before drafting additional legislation.Cruz pledged to keep working to pass his bill, which earned bipartisan support Tuesday, because it would require all aircraft to play by the same set of rules. “We will succeed, and ROTOR Act will become the law of the land," he said. "The families and the flying public deserve nothing less.”The main Families of Flight 5342 group had said that while the House bill includes a number of good reforms that should be considered, they can’t support it as written because it doesn’t clearly require ADS-B In equipment. Everyone aboard the helicopter and the American Airlines jet flying from Wichita, Kansas, including the parents of Olympic figure skater Maxim Naumov and 26 other members of the figure skating community, died when the aircraft collided and plummeted into the icy Potomac River.Sara Nelson, who is the president of the Association of Flight Attendants, said her union will keep pushing for changes because bill that failed “was the clearest and most direct way to avoid midair collisions.”Doug Lane said that as he learned more about the crash that killed his wife and 16-year-old figure-skating son, he couldn’t understand why airplanes aren’t already equipped with technology that was first recommended before his son was born, and he's angry the bill failed Tuesday. He said the House bill is a poor substitute because too many of its provisions just call for a study or rulemaking without requiring actual change and there are loopholes.Lane said the House bill is “a clear effort to just punt ADS-B In into a place where it can just go and die. It was not a good-faith effort to come up with a better way to do collision avoidance technology.”Improving the collision warning systemAny plane flying around a major airport is already required to have an ADS-B Out system that continually broadcasts an aircraft’s location and speed installed. ADS-B In systems that can receive those signals and be used to create a display showing pilots where all air traffic is located around them are not standard on airliners, though many general aviation pilots already use a portable receiver to display that information on an iPad.The NTSB investigation showed that system would have provided significantly more warning to the pilots involved in the crash and would have allowed them to avoid the collision. A plane equipped with ADS-B In can give the pilot a detailed description of where other aircraft are, whereas the current technology can only warn that traffic is in the area.Cantwell, the Washington Democrat, said most House Republicans "voted to protect loopholes that helped cause the DCA (Reagan Airport) midair collision rather than acting with urgency to prevent crashes like this from happening again. The families deserve better.”Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., who is chairman of an aviation safety caucus, voted for the bill. He said he was puzzled by the Pentagon’s last-minute shift on the bill. He also noted there were many absences among House members due to weather, which also affected the outcome.He said he is sure that the families of the crash victims are disappointed after the vote.“But I don’t think they should be completely dejected. I do think there are avenues to bring it back,” Langworthy said. “There’s will to solve this problem.”
2026-02-25 02:16:41

WeShipCars Expands Its Reach: Now Offering Car Shipping To and From Hawaii
Leading auto transport company broadens nationwide coverage with seamless vehicle shipping solutions connecting the mainland U.S. and the Hawaiian IslandsNorthbrook, Illinois, United States, February 25, 2026 /MarketersMEDIA/ -- WeShipCars, a trusted name in nationwide auto transport, proudly announces the expansion of its services to include professional car shipping to and from Hawaii. This strategic growth marks a major milestone for the company, reinforcing its commitment to delivering reliable, transparent, and customer-focused vehicle transport solutions across the United States - including destinations that require specialized ocean freight coordination.With more than 30 years of combined industry experience, the team behind WeShipCars has built its reputation on simplifying the auto transport process. By adding Hawaii to its service network, the company now bridges the logistical gap between the mainland and the Pacific islands, providing customers with a streamlined, end-to-end solution for one of the most complex transport routes in the country.Expanding Beyond the MainlandShipping a vehicle to or from Hawaii requires far more coordination than standard interstate transport. It involves a combination of overland trucking, port handling, and ocean freight logistics. Recognizing these unique challenges, WeShipCars developed a comprehensive Hawaii car shipping program designed to eliminate confusion and deliver a stress-free experience for customers.Whether relocating for work, coordinating a military move, purchasing a vehicle remotely, or planning a long-term stay in the islands, customers now have access to flexible car shipping estimates and services that fit their timeline and budget. WeShipCars offers door-to-port, port-to-door, and port-to-port services, giving vehicle owners full control over how their shipment is managed.“Our mission has always been to make auto transport simple, transparent, and reliable,” said Dilyan Ivanov, co-owner of WeShipCars. “Expanding into Hawaii allows us to support customers who need dependable vehicle shipping across the Pacific, while maintaining the same personalized service we’re known for nationwide.”Customer-First Service at Every StepFrom its founding, WeShipCars has distinguished itself through a customer-centric philosophy. Rather than treating shipments as transactions, the company emphasizes communication, education, and individualized planning. Every customer works with experienced transport specialists who guide them from quote to delivery.The Hawaii expansion continues this commitment. WeShipCars coordinates mainland pickup, manages port scheduling, oversees ocean carrier logistics, and arranges delivery upon arrival in Hawaii-or back to the continental U.S. This full-service approach removes the burden from customers, ensuring all documentation, timing, and compliance requirements are handled efficiently.Key features of WeShipCars’ Hawaii auto transport service include:Transparent pricing with no hidden feesZero upfront paymentFree cancellationFully insured and vetted network of carriersCustomizable services & dedicated experts24/7 customer supportThese policies reflect the company’s dedication to building long-term trust with its growing customer base.Comprehensive Coverage Across the IslandsWeShipCars facilitates vehicle shipping to and from major Hawaiian ports, including Honolulu (O‘ahu), Kahului (Maui), Nawiliwili (Kauai), and Hilo (Big Island). The company’s experienced logistics partners ensure smooth coordination between mainland departure points and island arrival terminals.Customers shipping from Hawaii back to the mainland receive the same level of oversight and support. Vehicles can be transported from port to residential or commercial destinations across the continental United States, making the service ideal for families relocating, students returning home, and military personnel completing assignments.Flexible Transport Options for Every VehicleUnderstanding that not all vehicles are created equal, WeShipCars offers both open and enclosed transport options as part of its Hawaii program.Open transport remains the most cost-effective and widely used solution, ideal for everyday vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. For high-value vehicles-including luxury, classic, exotic, or specialty cars-enclosed transport provides added protection from the elements and road debris during the mainland trucking portion of the journey.Each transport plan is customized based on vehicle type, origin and destination, scheduling preferences, and budget considerations. By tailoring every shipment, WeShipCars ensures that customers receive a solution aligned with their specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.Strengthening a National FootprintThe addition of Hawaii services positions WeShipCars as a truly nationwide auto transport provider. While many companies limit operations to the 48 contiguous states, WeShipCars has invested in the infrastructure and partnerships necessary to extend its reach across the Pacific.This expansion reflects broader growth within the company, driven by increasing demand for reliable, transparent vehicle shipping services. As remote work, interstate relocation, and online vehicle purchases continue to rise, consumers require dependable transport partners capable of navigating complex routes with professionalism and efficiency.“We see this as more than just geographic expansion,” added Dilyan Ivanov. “It’s about meeting our customers where they are-no matter how far that may be.”About WeShipCarsWeShipCars is a nationwide auto transport company built on transparency, reliability, and personalized service. With over three decades of combined industry expertise, the company specializes in safe and efficient vehicle shipping solutions tailored to individual customer needs. By partnering with fully licensed and insured carriers, WeShipCars ensures that every shipment is handled with care and professionalism. The company’s mission is simple: to make auto transport straightforward, stress-free, and accessible to customers across the United States.For more information about Hawaii car shipping services or to request an instant free car shipping quote, visit https://www.weshipcars.com/.Contact Info:Name: Dilyan IvanovEmail: Send EmailOrganization: WeShipCarsAddress: 964 Enfield Dr.Phone: (708) 300-0063Website: https://www.weshipcars.com/Release ID: 89184275Should you identify any discrepancies, concerns, or inaccuracies in the content provided in this press release or require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting error@releasecontact.com (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions to resolve identified issues diligently or guiding you through the necessary steps for removal. Our dedication lies in providing accurate and reliable information.
2026-02-25 02:16:08

Stage1Auto Expands Legal Window Tint Installation Services in Edison, NJ
Local auto shop Stage1Auto expands professional window tint installation services in Edison, NJ, responding to rising demand for legal, heat-reducing vehicle tint that complies with New Jersey visibility regulations.Edison, New Jersey, United States, February 25, 2026 -- Edison, NJ – February 24, 2026 – As temperatures rise and UV exposure continues to affect daily commuters across Middlesex County, demand for professional window tint installation in Edison, NJ has increased. Stage1Auto, an Edison-based automotive customization and installation shop located on US-1, has expanded its legal window tint services to meet growing demand for compliant, heat-reducing installations.Drivers throughout Edison and surrounding communities are increasingly seeking window tint solutions that reduce interior heat and glare without violating New Jersey visibility regulations. Improper film installation or non-compliant tint percentages can result in inspection complications or traffic citations, making professional installation an important consideration for vehicle owners.“Customers are asking more detailed questions about legal window tint options,” said a representative from Stage1Auto. “They want to improve comfort and reduce sun exposure, but they also want to make sure their vehicle remains compliant with New Jersey standards.”Modern window tint technology is designed not only to enhance vehicle appearance, but also to reduce infrared heat buildup and block harmful UV rays that can accelerate dashboard fading, upholstery wear, and interior deterioration. For drivers commuting daily along Route 1 and nearby highways, glare reduction has also become a practical safety concern.Stage1Auto provides professional window tint installation tailored to each vehicle type, ensuring proper film selection and application aligned with state guidelines. The shop serves drivers throughout Edison and neighboring communities including Metuchen, Fords, Iselin, and Highland Park.Drivers seeking more information about window tint installation in Edison, NJ can visit:https://www.stageoneauto.com/window-tinting-edison-nj/About the company: Stage1Auto is an automotive customization and installation shop located in Edison, NJ, specializing in professional window tint installation and vehicle appearance upgrades. The company serves drivers throughout Middlesex County and surrounding communities with installation-focused automotive services.Contact Info:Name: Roman DriftwoodEmail: Send EmailOrganization: Stage1AutoAddress: 1217 US-1, Edison, NJ 08837Phone: (908) 718-5977Website: https://www.stageoneauto.com/Release ID: 89184265In case of encountering any inaccuracies, problems, or queries arising from the content shared in this press release that necessitate action, or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we urge you to notify us at error@releasecontact.com (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team will be readily available to promptly address your concerns within 8 hours, resolving any identified issues diligently or guiding you through the necessary steps for removal. The provision of accurate and dependable information is our primary focus.
2026-02-25 02:16:01

Pulmo Balance: Ingredients, Pricing, and What Consumers Should Know in 2026
An informational overview examining category context, publicly available product disclosures, and what consumers often consider when researching respiratory support supplement optionsNew York, NY, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DISCLAIMER: This press release is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. The statements made about Pulmo Balance have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement, especially if you have existing health concerns or take medications. This article may contain affiliate links, meaning a commission may be earned at no additional cost to you if you purchase through the links provided. Pricing and availability are subject to change - visit the official website for current pricing.This release is an informational overview of publicly available disclosures for Pulmo Balance and broader consumer research behavior within the respiratory support supplement options category. Nothing in this content should be interpreted as medical advice, a product endorsement, or a performance claim.As respiratory support supplement options remain an active area of consumer research in 2026, Pulmo Balance product disclosures are available through the company's website, including ingredient listings and published policy information. With more people researching what's out there, detailed product information is accessible for anyone trying to better understand their supplement options.This article provides informational context about the respiratory wellness category and summarizes what Pulmo Balance Research has disclosed about its product. Readers seeking primary-source detail can View the current Pulmo Balance offer (official Pulmo Balance page) to review the company's complete product disclosures directly. This article does not assess product effectiveness or outcomes and focuses solely on publicly available disclosures.Why Consumers Are Researching Respiratory Support Supplement OptionsRespiratory wellness supplements are a category that continues to draw consumer attention as more people look into natural options that complement their existing health routines. Whether it's seasonal changes, environmental factors, or a general interest in day-to-day respiratory comfort, people are paying closer attention to what products are available and what factors might be worth considering before making a purchase.For many people, this research starts with a straightforward question - what's actually in these products, and how transparent is the company behind them? That's a reasonable instinct, and it's exactly the kind of thinking that may help consumers compare disclosures more effectively. The respiratory support supplement category includes a wide range of products with different ingredient profiles, pricing structures, and company disclosures, which can make comparison shopping feel overwhelming without organized information.Ingredient transparency, manufacturing practices, and refund policies are among the factors consumers commonly research alongside ingredient lists - a pattern that reflects broader awareness around supplement label literacy in general.What Respiratory Support Supplements Typically Refer ToThe term "respiratory support supplement" generally refers to dietary supplement products that contain ingredients traditionally associated with lung and airway wellness. These are not medications. They are not FDA-approved treatments for any disease or condition. They fall under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), which means companies can market them with structure/function claims but cannot claim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any specific disease.Products in this category commonly feature botanical extracts, enzymes, antioxidant compounds, and mushroom-derived ingredients. Some brands provide detailed Supplement Facts panels with individual ingredient amounts, while others group ingredients into proprietary blends. Understanding what category a product falls into - and what regulatory framework governs it - is an important first step for anyone doing their homework before purchasing.What Botanical Extracts and Enzyme Compounds AreBotanical extracts are concentrated preparations derived from plants - leaves, bark, roots, or flowers - that have histories of traditional use in various herbal wellness practices. Common botanical extracts found in the respiratory support category include mullein leaf, pine bark, and stinging nettle. These ingredients are widely available individually and are also commonly included in combination formulas. The presence of a botanical ingredient in a supplement does not constitute a claim about what that ingredient does.Enzyme compounds, such as bromelain (derived from pineapple), are proteins that facilitate biological processes. Enzymes appear in many supplement categories and are sometimes included alongside botanical ingredients. As with botanicals, the inclusion of an enzyme in a supplement formula does not constitute an efficacy claim for the finished product.How Consumers Evaluate Respiratory Support SupplementsIf you're comparing respiratory support supplements - and the fact that you're reading this suggests you might be - there are a few non-performance factors worth looking at before you focus on any single product. These won't tell you whether a product "works," but they will tell you a lot about the company behind it.Ingredient disclosure completeness is one of the first things to check. Does the company list every ingredient with its individual amount, or does the label use a proprietary blend that groups ingredients together without showing how much of each one you're actually getting? Full disclosure gives you the ability to cross-reference with independent research if you choose to.Dosage transparency matters because research on individual ingredients is typically conducted at specific dosage levels. If a company doesn't disclose how much of each ingredient is in the formula, there's no way for a consumer to compare what's in the bottle to what's been studied independently.Refund and return policy clarity is another indicator worth examining. Some companies advertise generous return windows but include specific procedural requirements. Reading the full refund policy - not just the marketing headline - before purchasing is a smart move.Manufacturing and sourcing disclosures vary significantly across brands. Some companies identify where products are manufactured, whether facilities are FDA-registered, and what quality control measures are in place. Others provide minimal detail.None of these factors tell you whether a supplement will meet your expectations. But they give you a clearer picture of how a company operates - and that's useful information regardless of which product you're evaluating.Ingredient Transparency in the Respiratory Support Supplement CategoryIngredient transparency is a factor many consumers consider when researching supplements. Companies vary in how much detail they provide about formulation, sourcing, and manufacturing processes. Some brands publish complete Supplement Facts panels with individual ingredient amounts, while others use proprietary blends that group ingredients together.According to publicly available company disclosures, Pulmo Balance lists Mullein Extract, Bromelain Powder, Maritime Pine Bark, Stinging Nettle Extract, Tiger Milk Mushroom, Quercetin Dihydrate Extract, and BioPerine as its primary ingredients. The company's published materials describe these as a blend selected for their traditional and research-associated roles in respiratory wellness contexts. Readers interested in specific dosage information can review the company's product page and any available labeling disclosures for the most current formulation details, as individual ingredient amounts are not disclosed in publicly available marketing materials. This overview is informational only and does not evaluate product outcomes or make performance claims.Important context about ingredient research: Some independent research exists related to individual ingredients listed in the Pulmo Balance formula. Studies cited by the company examine individual botanical ingredients in respiratory-related research contexts. However, these studies evaluate individual ingredients at specific dosages - they do not assess the Pulmo Balance formulation itself. Because the specific dosages in the Pulmo Balance formula are not publicly disclosed, direct comparisons to research dosages are not possible. Research on individual ingredients does not automatically translate to efficacy claims for a proprietary blend. The company explicitly states it is not endorsed by, sponsored by, or affiliated with any of the organizations that published the referenced research.Understanding Supplement Labels in the Respiratory CategoryIf you're new to researching supplements, a quick primer on how to read labels can save you a lot of confusion. The Supplement Facts panel is the most important section on any product - it's where you'll find serving size, servings per container, and (ideally) individual ingredient amounts.Products that list ingredients inside a "proprietary blend" are required to show the total combined weight of all ingredients in the blend, but they are not required to disclose how much of each individual ingredient is included. This is legal under current FDA labeling rules, but it does limit your ability to evaluate what you're actually taking on a per-ingredient basis.For respiratory support products specifically, you may also want to look at whether the label includes common allergen disclosures, whether the product is described as non-GMO or third-party tested, and whether the company provides customer service contact information directly on the product page. These are transparency signals - not guarantees of quality - but they help you build a more complete picture before making a decision.What Pulmo Balance Research Discloses About Its ProductPulmo Balance is a dietary supplement manufactured by Pulmo Balance Research, a United States-based company, according to the company's website. The product is marketed as a natural lung support formula containing seven ingredients and is positioned for adults seeking to incorporate respiratory wellness support into their daily routines.The company's published materials reference a blend of ingredients commonly listed within the respiratory support category. According to the company's website, Paul Whitmore is identified as the creator of Pulmo Balance. The company describes the formula as designed for respiratory wellness support and recommends consistent use as part of a broader wellness routine.The company describes the product as non-GMO, non-habit forming, and assembled in the United States. The recommended usage is two capsules daily with a meal, according to the company's website. The product is not recommended for individuals under 18 or for pregnant or nursing mothers.The company recommends a usage period of four months or longer, describing this as its suggested timeline for incorporating the supplement into a daily wellness regimen. As with any dietary supplement, individual experiences vary, and the company notes this in its publicly available materials.Important context: Pulmo Balance is a dietary supplement, not a medication. It has not undergone FDA evaluation and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Anyone with existing health concerns or who takes medications should consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.Readers who want to review the company's full ingredient list, product disclosures, and current availability can View the current Pulmo Balance offer (official Pulmo Balance page) to access complete product information directly from the company.Pulmo Balance Pricing Structure and Purchase OptionsPulmo Balance is offered in multiple package configurations through the company's direct-to-consumer website. According to the company, multi-bottle packages may include bundled digital materials - described as "The 7-Day Lung Reset Protocol" and "The Inflammation-Free Breathing Blueprint" (digital downloads, not physical books) - along with shipping incentives on certain package tiers.The company offers single-bottle, three-bottle, and six-bottle configurations. Specific pricing, availability, and promotional details may change over time and can be reviewed on the official product page.According to the company, orders are shipped within 24 working hours using premium carriers, and customers receive tracking numbers via email. Domestic orders typically arrive within 5 to 10 days, according to the company's website.Refund Policies and Customer Support DisclosuresAccording to the company's published policies, Pulmo Balance Research describes a 90-day refund policy and provides customer service contact methods on its website. The company's published return policy includes specific requirements for obtaining a refund, including return authorization procedures and product return conditions. Readers should review the full terms directly on the official page before making a purchase decision.Who May Want to Consult a Healthcare ProfessionalWhile respiratory support supplements are widely available, certain individuals may want to discuss supplementation with a qualified healthcare professional before use. This commonly includes people with existing respiratory conditions or chronic health concerns, anyone currently taking prescription medications or managing ongoing health conditions, women who are pregnant or nursing, individuals with known allergies to any listed ingredient, and anyone under the age of 18.Many people choose to consult qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance on whether any supplement fits their individual health circumstances. This is particularly relevant for anyone with existing health conditions or those taking medications. A healthcare provider can evaluate whether a supplement is appropriate alongside your current health plan - and that conversation is always worth having.Frequently Asked Questions About Pulmo BalanceWhat is Pulmo Balance?According to the company's website, Pulmo Balance is a dietary supplement containing seven primary ingredients. It is manufactured by Pulmo Balance Research, a United States-based company, and is marketed as a natural respiratory support formula for adults.How is Pulmo Balance taken?According to the company, the recommended usage is two capsules daily with a meal. The company recommends consistent use for four months or longer as part of a wellness routine.Are individual ingredient amounts disclosed?Specific dosages of each ingredient in the Pulmo Balance formula are not disclosed in publicly available company materials. Readers can review the company's product page and any available labeling disclosures for the most current formulation details.Where is Pulmo Balance manufactured?According to the company's website, Pulmo Balance is assembled in the United States.What is the refund policy?According to the company, Pulmo Balance purchases are covered by a 90-day return policy with specific terms and conditions. Readers should review the complete refund policy on the company's website before ordering.Can Pulmo Balance be taken with medications?Anyone currently taking prescription medications or managing ongoing health conditions should consult their healthcare provider before starting Pulmo Balance or any new dietary supplement.Where to Review Complete Product InformationAccording to the company's website, Pulmo Balance is available exclusively through its direct-to-consumer platform. To review current pricing, package options, the full ingredient list, available labeling disclosures, and the company's complete terms and conditions, View the current Pulmo Balance offer (official Pulmo Balance page).For customer service inquiries, the company provides contact information on the official website, including email support at support@pulmobalance.com and phone support at +1-888-834-4386 (Mon-Sun, 10 AM-1 AM EST).About This PublicationThis press release is published for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any product. Readers should conduct their own research and consult qualified healthcare professionals before making health-related decisions. This publication may contain affiliate links, meaning a commission may be earned at no additional cost to you if you purchase through the links provided.Final Disclaimer: The statements made about Pulmo Balance have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. Pricing and availability are subject to change. Always verify current product information, pricing, and terms directly with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision.CONTACT: support@pulmobalance.com+1-888-834-4386 (Mon-Sun, 10 AM-1 AM EST)
2026-02-25 02:14:54

Digital Realty Expands Innovation Lab Network to Singapore and Japan to Accelerate AI and Hybrid Cloud Implementation
Asia Pacific will provide real-world environments for customers and partners to test and optimize next generation infrastructureSINGAPORE, Feb. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR), the world’s largest cloud- and carrier-neutral data center platform, today announced the expansion of its Digital Realty Innovation Lab (DRIL) into Singapore and Japan. This marks the first expansion of the company’s global DRIL network into Asia Pacific, following the successful launch of the inaugural DRIL facility in Northern Virginia in September 2025, which received over 120 visits from our enterprise customers.The new DRIL locations will offer our ecosystem of partners and customers fully supported, real-world testing environments where they can bring their own workloads or use pre-configured infrastructure to validate AI and hybrid cloud deployments before scaling live. This is especially important as AI adoption increases and infrastructure readiness has emerged as a critical barrier to moving from experimentation to production at scale.The launch represents Digital Realty’s commitment to support Singapore and Japan’s continued leadership in AI innovation. In Singapore, AI adoption is driving continued growth in the nation’s digital economy, which now accounts for 18.6% of total GDP. At the same time, Japan plans to invest 10 trillion yen or more in the semiconductor and AI sectors by 2030. Both are expected to be available for use by customers and partners this year.Enabling next-generation AI infrastructureThe Singapore DRIL is designed to serve as a digital innovation hub, bringing together local customers, partners, and research institutions with global technology providers and industry participants seeking to develop, test and deploy AI and hybrid cloud solutions in Singapore.In Japan, the DRIL will be located at the company’s NRT12 data center in the Greater Tokyo area. Designed to support advanced AI and high-performance computing use cases, it will feature 20 racks with direct liquid cooling (DLC) capabilities, enabling support for high-power-density workloads."Sustaining rapidly expanding digital economies requires innovation ecosystems built on infrastructure that is not only AI-ready, but also efficient, resilient, and trusted,” said Serene Nah, Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific, Digital Realty."Since launching the DRIL in the US, we've seen strong demand from customers and partners across Asia Pacific seeking dedicated environments to validate AI and hybrid cloud architectures before deploying at scale. Bringing this capability to Singapore and Japan reflects the digital maturity of these markets and their critical role in shaping the region's long-term digital competitiveness. By creating spaces where enterprises can test, optimize, and de-risk their AI infrastructure, we're accelerating responsible deployment and strengthening Asia Pacific’s position as a hub for trusted digital innovation.”Purpose-built infrastructure for AI and hybrid cloud validationThe new DRIL locations will enable businesses in Singapore and Japan to test performance, optimize configurations, and seamlessly connect to cloud and network providers via ServiceFabric®, Digital Realty’s global interconnection and orchestration platform.By leveraging Digital Realty’s global experience in deploying AI-ready infrastructure and its proven Pervasive Datacenter Architecture (PDx®) methodology, the Singapore DRIL enables customers to test, optimize, and validate AI deployments in real-world conditions, reducing complexity and significantly accelerating the journey from pilot to production.Consistent with the global network of DRILs, key features will include:High-density AI and HPC testing - Support for AI and high-performance computing workloads with high-density colocation, accommodating deployments of up to 150kW per cabinet.Energy and cooling-aware testing - Enables enterprises to evaluate AI performance, power density, and efficiency trade-offs before full-scale deployment.AI infrastructure optimization - Enables businesses to explore AI-specific power, cooling, and GPU resource requirements in an environment optimized for AI workloads.Hybrid cloud validation - Direct cloud connectivity allows enterprises to refine hybrid strategies and seamlessly onboard through ServiceFabric®, Digital Realty’s interconnection and orchestration platform.AI workload orchestration - Customers can orchestrate AI workloads across Digital Realty’s Private AI Exchange (AIPx) to enable secure, low-latency integration across distributed environments.Latency testing across locations - Enterprises can test latency scenarios ensuring seamless performance across multiple locations as well as cloud destinations. The global DRIL network already supports a growing ecosystem of customers and partners, including AMD, Cisco, and Lenovo, focused on scaling AI and hybrid cloud architectures._________________About Digital RealtyDigital Realty brings companies and data together by delivering the full spectrum of data center, colocation, and interconnection solutions. PlatformDIGITAL®, the company’s global data center platform, provides customers with a secure data meeting place and a proven Pervasive Datacenter Architecture (PDx®) solution methodology for powering innovation, from cloud and digital transformation to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), and efficiently managing Data Gravity challenges. Digital Realty gives its customers access to the connected data communities that matter to them with a global data center footprint of 300+ facilities in 55+ metros across 30+ countries on six continents. To learn more about Digital Realty, please visit digitalrealty.com or follow us on LinkedIn and X.For Additional InformationMedia ContactsJoyce NgDigital Realtyjong@digitalrealty.comInvestor RelationsJordan Sadler / Jim HusebyDigital Realty+1 (214) 231-1350InvestorRelations@digitalrealty.comSafe Harbor StatementThis press release contains forward-looking statements which are based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially, including statements related to the company's partnerships and expected benefits, expected completion dates, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, ServiceFabric®, customer demand and the company's strategy. For a list and description of risks and uncertainties, see the reports and other filings by the company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
2026-02-25 02:14:43

Christian pastor asks for compassion amid controversy vs Alvin Aragon
The pastor of Victory Church, which Alvin Aragon attends, gave a statement on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda.In the February 24 episode of the program, veteran host Boy Abunda read the statement from Pastor Nixon Ng. This was in connection with the criticism currently being faced by StarStruck alumnus Alvin.According to Boy, “Humingi kami ng statement galing kay Pastor Nixon Ng of Victory Church sa Pasay. Bahagi ng kanyang statement ay sinasabi niyang, he has that belief of Alvin about the LGBT Community and the role of the father and the husband in the family is not different from the belief of other Christians.”“But he believes Christians should share their conviction with compassion. Conviction and compassion must always come together.'The pastor also believes that the public should be “gracious” toward Alvin amid the controversy he is facing.Boy said while reading the statement, “Naniniwala din siya that the public should be gracious towards Alvin.“He noted that most Christians, 'Especially in the early stages of their faith can be overly passionate and excited about sharing their beliefs.' Pero eventually daw, 'They grow as Christians.'”Watch Fast Talk with Boy Abunda: Sofia Trazona comments about Alvin Aragon's controversies (Episode 798) Alvin recently made showbiz headlines due to his heated statements about his relationship with SexBomb Girls member Izzy Trazona and his trans woman child, Sofia Trazona.In one interview, Alvin objected to being compared to Bulacan vice governor Alex Castro, the husband of another SexBomb Girls member, Sunshine Garcia.He said, “Sinasabi nila, 'Buti pa yung asawa ni Sunshine, vice governor, pinayagan sila mag-concert.“Dapat nga hindi, e. Dapat nga, yung asawa mo, ingatan mo. Hindi mo hahayaang magsuot ng mga damit na para pagnasaan ng mga lalaki."In a separate interview, Alvin also criticized Izzy's former husband, Michael Navarro, for supporting their child Sofia's identity as a trans woman. He also mentioned several celebrities whose children are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, such as K Brosas.Alvin said, “God will throw you to hell if you continue to do homosexuality. Mamuhay ka, and you don't want to believe in Jesus? I assure you that God will throw you to hell if you don't stop, repent, and believe in the gospel."Meanwhile, get to know more about Alvin Aragon in this gallery:
2026-02-25 02:13:00

Foreign debt service burden drops to $12B
THE country’s external debt service burden fell by 22.8 percent to $12.01 billion as of end-November from $15.57 billion a year earlier, preliminary Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.Principal payments declined to $4.77 billion from $8.21 billion while interest payments also dropped to $7.25 billion from $7.37 billion.Outstanding external debt stood at $149.09 billion as of end-September, up 6.7 percent from $139.64 billion in the previous quarter.As a share of gross domestic product, external debt slightly rose to 30.9 percent, slightly higher from 30.6 percent three months earlier.Public sector external debt totaled $96.29 billion, up from $86.88 billion as of end-June, while private sector debt also increased to $52.79 billion from $52.76 billion.The central bank said external debt “remained manageable, supported by solid economic conditions and prudent policies.”The debt service burden — a measure of the country’s ability to pay its debt — covers principal and interest payments on medium- to long-term credits such as those from the International Monetary Fund, loans under Paris Club agreements and debt restructuring by commercial banks, along with new money facilities.It also includes interest payments on banks’ and nonbanks’ fixed and revolving short-term liabilities but excludes prepayments for future foreign loan maturities and principal payments on short-term obligations.Sought for comment, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the decline was due to a lower share of foreign borrowings in the government’s total borrowing mix to better manage the risk of foreign exchange losses.The government, which has prioritized local borrowings, has set a mix of 77 percent domestic borrowings and 23 percent foreign for 2026.It is planning to borrow P2.68 trillion this year to finance its programs and projects, slightly up from the P2.6 trillion last year.Most will come from the domestic debt market at P2.05 trillion, lower than the P2.11 trillion programmed for 2025.The remaining P627.1 billion will come from external sources, up from 2025’s P488.17 billion. This comprises program loans (P263.3 billion), project loans (P61.7 billion), and bonds and other inflows (P302.1 billion).
2026-02-23 16:19:00

Tariff ruling tagged as stocks, peso gain
THE stock market rose for a fourth straight trading day and the peso also hit a five-month high on Monday, a result an analyst said was partly due to last Friday’s US Supreme Court ruling striking down President Donald Trump’s tariffs.The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) added 23.39 points, or 0.36 percent, to 6,488.51 and the broader All Shares also rose, by 20.93 points or 0.59 percent, to 3,591.61.The peso ended at P57.575:$1, strengthening by 60 and a half centavos to its strongest close since Sept. 24, 2025’s P57.461:$1. It opened at P57.95 and traded between P57.53 and P57.999. Volume reached P1.716 billion, up from Friday’s P1.367 billion.Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the peso strengthened after the US Supreme Court ruled against former President Donald Trump’s global tariffs, a decision that triggered immediate gains in emerging market stock markets and currencies.He said the PSEi’s advance, which followed a brief profit-taking period ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays and marked near two-week highs, was also supported by the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling.Ricafort said the ruling was expected to speed up global trade, support economic growth and ease inflationary pressures, benefiting Philippine exporters exposed to US tariffs.Meanwhile, Regina Capital Development Corp. managing director Luis Limlingan said investor appetite for stocks was supported by corporate earnings and continued confidence despite cautious trading volume amid global uncertainties.He said the local market resilience was also being underpinned by government reforms and plans for catch-up infrastructure spending in the first quarter, which will boost investor confidence.Market breadth favored advancers on Monday with 123 gainers, 69 decliners, and 72 unchanged, while total turnover reached P5.49 billion, net of extraordinary block sales.
2026-02-23 16:18:00

ICC prosecutors outline charges vs Duterte
THE International Criminal Court (ICC) opened hearings Monday to decide whether former president Rodrigo Duterte should stand trial for crimes against humanity linked to his deadly anti-drug crackdown.The “confirmation of charges” sessions, taking place over four days, will determine whether there is enough evidence against Duterte to proceed to a trial.The 80-year-old was not present in court in The Hague after it granted a defense request to waive his right to appear, despite judges ruling he was fit to take part.Following the hearings, the judges will have 60 days to issue a written decision on whether he should face a full trial.As Monday’s hearing began, prosecutors outlined allegations that Duterte personally orchestrated and endorsed extrajudicial killings (EJKs) during his tenure as mayor of Davao City and later as president of the Philippines.ICC Deputy Prosecutor Mandiaye Niang presented the framework of the case, detailing evidence suggesting that Duterte played a central role in a campaign of widespread and systematic killings targeting individuals perceived to be involved in illegal drugs and other crimes.The charges cover the period from Nov. 1, 2011 to March 16, 2019, and involve 49 incidents resulting in 78 deaths, including children.“Today marks an important day for international justice, for the people of the Philippines, for the victims, and for this court,” Niang said. “The commencement of the confirmation hearing against Mr. Rodrigo Roa Duterte is a reminder that no individual, regardless of office, is above the law.”The chargesThe prosecution charged Duterte with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder as crimes against humanity, structured into three counts: Count One: Murder of 19 victims — including three children — alleged to be criminals in or around Davao City between 2013 and 2016, carried out by members of the Davao Death Squad (DDS) while Duterte was mayor.Count Two: Murder of 14 high-value targets across the Philippines between July 2016 and July 2017, executed by state actors and others in a so-called National Network during Duterte’s presidency.Count Three: Murder and attempted murder of 45 victims — including 43 killings and two attempted killings — during barangay clearance operations nationwide between July 2016 and September 2018, also by members of the National Network.The prosecution said Duterte is individually criminally responsible as an indirect co-perpetrator, as well as in the alternative, for ordering, inducing, or aiding and abetting the crimes. The charges allege that Duterte:– Designed and promoted the policy of “neutralizing” alleged criminals through violent acts, including murder.– Established, supervised, and authorized the DDS and later the national anti-drug campaign “Double Barrel.”– Provided weapons, logistical support, financial incentives, and promotions to perpetrators.– Personally identified targets and publicly named individuals deemed high-value targets.– Made repeated statements encouraging killings and assuring immunity for law enforcement participants.Niang emphasized that Duterte’s influence over both local and national perpetrators was absolute, citing instances where he temporarily suspended operations in response to public outcry, demonstrating that his instructions were obeyed without exception.Evidence overviewThe prosecution highlighted evidence including witness testimonies, official documents, audiovisual material, and financial records, illustrating that Duterte’s so-called war on drugs resulted in thousands of civilian deaths.Victims were often abducted, mistreated, and denied due process, with some children among the dead. Niang also noted Duterte’s public mocking of victims, pointing to a 2016 speech in which he derided a widely circulated photograph of an extrajudicial killing victim.“His intent and knowledge are shown by multiple statements throughout his mayoral and presidential tenure, promoting the common plan and urging police and even members of the public to kill alleged criminals,” Niang said.Victims’ plea for justiceFilipino human rights lawyer Joel Butuyan, representing 497 victims, expressed deep disappointment over Duterte’s absence in The Hague, describing the hearing as the victims’ “last boat” for justice.“The very deep disappointment of the victims stems from the decision allowing Rodrigo Duterte not to be present at this stage,” Butuyan said. “The sight of Mr. Duterte being confronted with the grave and horrible charges against him would have constituted a vital component of justice for the victims.” Butuyan said domestic avenues for accountability in the Philippines are effectively closed. Citing statements from former Justice secretary and current Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, he said critical evidence had been erased, leaving victims with no recourse but the ICC.He warned that failure to confirm the charges could embolden Duterte to return to the Philippines as a “conquering hero” and further entrench a culture of impunity. Victims, he said, continue to live in fear due to the pervasive influence of Duterte allies and family members in positions of power, both in the Philippines and among expatriate communities abroad.Next stepsFollowing the opening statements, the prosecution team will present further evidence detailing Duterte’s role in creating and supervising the DDS and exercising authority over national law enforcement. Subsequent sessions will examine the full scope of the evidence, including witness testimonies, official orders, and audiovisual material documenting the killings.The confirmation of charges stage will determine whether there is sufficient evidence for the ICC to formally confirm the allegations against Duterte, potentially setting the stage for trial.Rival demonstratorsRival groups of demonstrators camped outside the court. Patricia Enriquez said it was “a historic moment” for victims of Duterte’s alleged crimes.“It is emotional. It is hopeful. It is also very painful,” the 36-year-old researcher said.“I’m hoping that all the Filipinos and everybody in the world will stand with us, stand with truth, stand with justice and stand with accountability,” she said.Aldo Villarta, a 35-year-old chef, said it was a “slap in the face” for the Philippines that an international court was trying the country’s former leader.“We’ve already suffered so long from colonization,” said Villarta, who also argued that Duterte’s human rights were being infringed by imprisonment.Former presidential chief legal counsel Salvador Panelo said on Monday that he traveled to The Hague primarily as a friend of the former president, offering moral support ahead of the confirmation of charges hearing, and not as a member of the official defense team.In a radio interview, Panelo clarified that he has no formal role in crafting Duterte’s defense, noting that the former president’s legal team had only recently been organized.“For now, I am here as a friend,” Panelo said, explaining that his initial purpose in attending the proceedings was to witness the hearings and, if possible, see Duterte.Duterte’s legal team urged his supporters to remain vigilant and discerning ahead of his ICC confirmation of charges hearing, warning against taking government-aligned media reports at face value.Nicholas Kaufman, Duterte’s lead counsel, said the former president’s Filipino and international legal teams are fully engaged in preparing for the proceedings in The Hague.“Be strong. Watch carefully and don’t believe everything the government’s media tells (sic) you,” Kaufman told Duterte’s supporters in a statement.He described the confirmation stage as a critical point where the ICC assesses whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial — a procedure unique to international criminal tribunals.Kaufman stressed that the defense’s role is not to prove Duterte’s innocence, but to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue that there are no substantial grounds to believe the alleged crimes were committed.Duterte’s health and cognitive state remain central to the case. Kaufman said the former president suffers from severe short-term memory loss but retains long-term recollections, and that counsel visits have been regular to guide him through legal strategy.Police on alertThe Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed all of its units under heightened alert in anticipation of possible mass gatherings as the confirmation of charges hearings began.PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the entire police force is monitoring the situation on the ground to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of all mass gatherings relating to the former president’s ICC battle.“Our security measures are in place and it is intended to ensure the peaceful conduct of any activity in public places. Regardless of the affiliation of the groups, our personnel will be there to protect their rights and maintain peace and order,” Nartatez said.Nartatez directed regional units to pre-position Civil Disturbance Management teams and ensure medical emergency responders are on standby for possible rallies.The PNP chief also appealed for restraint from both critics and supporters of Duterte. WITH AFP
2026-02-23 16:17:00

Tax compliance drive seen lifting revenues
THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is optimistic about revenue collections this year amid intensified efforts to improve tax compliance and expand enforcement, its top official said.“If our taxpayers are compliant and registered, then they will be part of the tax base and we will capture their sales,” BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin Mendoza told reporters on Monday, adding that this would “translate to higher revenues for the government.”He said the year was off to a good start as the BIR collected roughly P358 billion as of end-January, higher than the P355.1 billion recorded a year earlier.Mendoza did not provide an estimate of how much additional revenues could be raised from the tax compliance campaign, but stressed that “the important thing is that the process should be correct.”“Not only the revenues that will be collected, but also our negotiators should be compliant,” he said.The BIR chief claimed that they were making tax compliance “easier for honest taxpayers and harder for violators — combining service excellence, digital coordination, and accountable enforcement to protect every peso of revenue for the Filipino people.”He added that the campaign was part of continuing engagement with taxpayers and ongoing taxpayer education efforts, noting that many had failed to comply simply because they lacked the proper guidance and did not clearly understand the BIR’s regulations.“Even though many of the transactions in the BIR are online, we see the value of occasional face-to-face interaction with our taxpayers,” Mendoza said.The BIR collected a total of P3.105 trillion last year, which he said exceeded the P3.101-trillion emerging collection target — an operational aim separate from the official goal of P3.232 trillion.The result — still an improvement from 2024’s P2.83 trillion — was blamed on the suspension of audit operations late last year in the wake of extortion allegations.The bureau has been tasked to collect P3.579 trillion this year and Mendoza said that anticipated economic growth would boost revenues from income, value-added and excise taxes.Digitalization and monitoring initiatives to prevent leakages are also expected to help boost revenues.“Hopefully, this year, the infrastructure projects of the government will accelerate and that will help to increase the revenue that BIR collects,” Mendoza added.NIÑA MYKA PAULINE ARCEO
2026-02-23 16:17:00

EU rejects higher US tariffs; China wants duties scrapped
BRUSSELS/BEIJING/HONG KONG/SEOUL — The European Commission demanded on Sunday that the United States stick to the terms of an EU-US trade deal reached last year, after the US Supreme Court struck down Donald Trump’s global tariffs and he responded with new levies across the board.The Commission, which negotiates trade policy on behalf of the 27 EU member states, said Washington must provide “full clarity” on the steps it intends to take following the court ruling.After the court struck down Trump’s global tariffs on Friday, the US president announced temporary, across-the-board tariffs of 10 percent, which he then hiked to 15 percent a day later.“The current situation is not conducive to delivering ‘fair, balanced, and mutually beneficial’ transatlantic trade and investment, as agreed to by both sides” in the joint statement setting out the terms of last year’s trade agreement, the commission said. “A deal is a deal.”The comments were far more strongly worded than the commission’s initial response on Friday, which had said only that it was studying the outcome of the Supreme Court decision and keeping in contact with the US administration.Last year’s trade deal set a 15-percent US tariff rate for most EU goods, apart from those covered by other sectoral tariffs such as on steel. It also allowed zero tariffs on some products such as aircraft and spare parts. The EU agreed to remove import duties on many US goods and withdrew a threat to retaliate with higher levies.It is not clear whether Trump’s new 15-percent tariffs supersede the EU-US deal. If they do, the EU’s zero tariff exemptions could disappear. The new tariffs could also be placed on top of pre-existing “most-favored-nation” US duties, which is not the case under the EU-US deal.‘Fighting is harmful’Meanwhile, China on Monday said it was making a “full assessment” of the US Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and has urged Washington to lift “unilateral tariff measures” on its trading partners, warning that fighting between the two countries is “harmful.”“US unilateral tariffs ... violate international trade rules and US domestic law, and are not in the interests of any party,” the Chinese ministry said.“Cooperation between China and the United States is beneficial to both sides, but fighting is harmful,” it added.Trade and tariffs are expected to dominate the agenda for both China and the US ahead of a highly anticipated visit by Trump to China in late March and early April — when he will meet his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.Trump’s planned new levies are grounded in a separate but untested law, known as Section 122, that allows tariffs up to 15 percent but requires congressional approval to extend them after 150 days. No president has previously invoked Section 122, and its use could lead to further legal challenges.“China will continue to pay close attention to this and firmly safeguard its interests,” the Commerce Ministry said.The US court’s ruling invalidated a number of tariffs that the Trump administration had imposed on Asian export powerhouses from China and South Korea to Japan and Taiwan, the world’s largest chipmaker and a key player in tech supply chains.South Korea said it would continue to consult with the US to maintain a “balance of interests” between the two countries, while its industry minister said there was concern among officials across industries, including cars, batteries and chips.“The public and private sector need to work together to secure Korean companies’ export competitiveness and diversify their markets,” Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan said on Monday.India said it had delayed plans to send a trade delegation to Washington this week to finalize an interim trade deal, chiefly because of fresh tariff uncertainty out of the US, according to a source in its trade ministry.US tariffs on Indian goods were set to be cut to 18 percent, while India agreed to buy US items worth $500 billion over five years, ranging from energy supplies to aircraft and parts, precious metals and technology products.
2026-02-23 16:16:00

Lawmakers say Philippines should rejoin ICC
(UPDATE) SEVEN lawmakers on Monday filed resolutions urging the Philippine government to rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC).House Resolution (HR) 809 was filed by the Makabayan bloc composed of ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Sarah Elago, and Kabataan Rep. Renee Co.“The House of Representatives, as the duly elected, constitutional voice of the Filipino people, is duty-bound to champion justice, truth, and transparency, and to advance the national interest by aligning the country with international norms of human rights protection,” the resolution read.“Now, therefore, be it resolved, as it is hereby resolved, that the House of Representatives, through this resolution, formally expresses its sense urging for the government of the Republic of the Philippines to take necessary steps toward the re-accession of the Philippines to the Rome Statute, thereby rejoining the International Criminal Court [...],” the resolution said.HR 811, meanwhile, was filed by Akbayan Reps. Perci Cendaña, Chel Diokno, and Dadah Kiram Ismula with Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao.They want the House, through the resolution, to express “strong support” for the country’s re-accession to the Rome Statute and to urge the country’s president “to initiate the necessary constitutional processes for re-accession, subject to Senate concurrence pursuant to Article VII, Section 21 of the Constitution.” The Rome Statute is the treaty that founded the ICC. Under the 1987 Constitution, no treaty shall be valid and take effect unless two-thirds of the whole Senate concurs.HR 811 said “rejoining the ICC will strengthen the country’s commitment to international justice, reinforce its democratic institutions, and enhance its standing in the international community.”Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima supported rejoining the ICC.“I’m all for it,” de Lima said when asked by Co what she thought of rejoining the Rome Statute. Co asked de Lima after the latter delivered a privilege speech.“I’ve been calling for the Philippine government, the current administration, to consider rejoining the ICC because it’s the only international mechanism of accountability that can be relied upon or depended upon if domestic mechanisms of accountability fail or if the state refuses, or [is] unwilling, or [is] unable to genuinely investigate matters under ICC jurisdiction,” de Lima, a former secretary of the Department of Justice and a former senator, said. The Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019.De Lima, explaining the process to rejoin the treaty, said that “the [decision] has to be with the executive. ... The executive has to make a decision whether or not to rejoin and then the decision of the president or the executive will be submitted to the Senate for ratification.”
2026-02-23 16:16:00

P39.8B in disaster-response funds available in 2026 budget, says Libanan
House Minority Leader 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan highlighted on Sunday, Feb. 22 the availability of P39.8 billion in fresh funding for the country’s disaster-response and rehabilitation efforts.“Congress allocated P39.8 billion for this year’s Calamity Fund—a 90 percent increase from the P21 billion set aside in 2025,” Libanan said in a statement. He made this revelation even as three of the country’s volcanoes – Mayon, Taal, and Kanlaon – were all exhibiting unrest or ongoing eruptions.Libanan broke down the P39.8-billion Calamity Fund under the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) as follows:•P15.3 billion for the Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Assistance Program for Local Government Units (LGUs);•P12.5 billion in capital outlays for repair and reconstruction of permanent structures, including pre-disaster operations, rehabilitation, and related activities;•P11 billion in aid, relief, and rehabilitation services to communities affected by calamities, including personnel training and other pre-disaster measures; and•P1 billion in adaptation projects and activities for local governments and community organizations under the People’s Survival Fund.“The disaster-response funds cover natural and human-induced calamities, epidemics as declared by the Department of Health (DOH), crises from armed conflicts, insurgency, terrorism, and other catastrophes,” said the minority leader.Libanan’s announcement coincides with reports from the Region 11 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC), which on Feb. 21 confirmed that at least seven people were killed in Mati City, Davao Oriental, and Monkayo, Davao de Oro due to flooding and landslides triggered by heavy rains.A total of 84,208 individuals across 65 barangays in the Davao region were affected by prolonged rainfall caused by a shear line, a boundary in the atmosphere where winds moving in different directions converge, often leading to unsettled weather.Earlier this month, tropical storm Basyang caused flash floods and landslides, killing at least 12 people and affecting 232,550 residents across 517 barangays in Mindanao and the Visayas.The 2025 World Risk Report ranked the Philippines No. 1 out of 193 countries for the fourth consecutive year, due largely to its exposure to natural hazards such as typhoons, flooding, sea-level rise, droughts, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.The Philippines sits along the western Pacific typhoon corridor where nearly one-third of the world’s most powerful tropical cyclones develop.The country also straddles the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.
2026-02-22 06:18:00

UTCPI names Lisza Buscaino-Redulla as president
THE United Transportation Coalition Philippines Inc. (UTCPI) has appointed Lisza Buscaino-Redulla as president, tasking the veteran advocate with unifying the nation’s fragmented transport interests amid a period of rapid modernization.Buscaino-Redulla assumes leadership of a coalition that spans the full spectrum of Philippine transit, from traditional jeepneys and buses to transport network vehicle services or TNVS and emerging mobility cooperatives.In her first address as president, she pledged to prioritize a “cohesive and representative voice” for workers in national policy-making.“Our strength lies in unity, and our progress depends on working hand in hand,” Buscaino-Redulla said.“I carry an unshakeable optimism that together we will build a more empowered, inclusive, and forward-looking transportation community for the Philippines,” she added.The appointment comes at a critical juncture for the sector.As the Department of Transportation or DOTr) pushes for sustainable modernization, Buscaino-Redulla emphasized her readiness to collaborate with the agency under Secretary Giovanni Lopez.UTCPI describes the secretary as a “capable and experienced” partner in accelerating reforms.Joining Buscaino-Redulla is a reconstituted board of directors, including Issei John Manila Goto, Bryant Rhey Manabat and Bon Andaya.Lawyer John Paul Nabua will serve as corporate secretary, providing the legal and governance oversight necessary for the coalition’s institutional initiatives.The new leadership team enters office with a mandate to bridge the gap between traditional operators and modern stakeholders.Under Buscaino-Redulla, UTCPI aims to expand partnerships with civil society and government to ensure that modernization does not come at the cost of driver welfare.
2026-02-22 06:12:09

Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Announces Closing of US$63.2 Million Public Offering Including Full Exercise of Underwriter Option
VICTORIA, British Columbia, Feb. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Inc. ("Eupraxia” or the "Company”) (NASDAQ:EPRX) (TSX:EPRX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging its proprietary DiffusphereTM technology designed to optimize local, controlled drug delivery for applications with significant unmet need, is pleased to announce the successful closing of its previously announced public offering (the "Offering") of 7,607,145 common shares of the Company (the "Common Shares"), which includes the full exercise of the option to purchase additional shares granted to the underwriters, at a price to the public of US$7.00 per Common Share, and pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 1,428,571 Common Shares in lieu thereof (the "Pre-Funded Warrants”) at a price of US$6.99999 per Pre-Funded Warrant, which equals the public offering price per Common Share less the C$0.000001 per share exercise price of each Pre-Funded Warrant, for gross proceeds of approximately US$63.2 million, before deducting the underwriting commissions and estimated expenses incurred in connection with the Offering."We are pleased to complete this financing, allowing us to significantly expand our pipeline, reach several additional development milestones with EP-104GI for eosinophilic esophagitis, and make meaningful progress towards commercial readiness,” said James Helliwell, CEO of Eupraxia. "We appreciate the support from both existing and new investors as we execute our mission and pursue the next phase of growth for Eupraxia.”Cantor and LifeSci Capital acted as joint book-running managers for the Offering. Bloom Burton and Craig-Hallum also acted as co-managers for the Offering.As previously stated, the Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering primarily for the continued advancement of EP-104GI for Eosinophilic Esophagitis, including the completion of ongoing preclinical studies, and Phase 2 clinical trials, preparations for a Phase 3 clinical trial including the related regulatory submissions, and manufacturing activities, and to undertake the necessary commercial/market development activities to prepare for the eventual product launch. The Company also intends to use a portion of the proceeds to accelerate and expand its plans to pursue clinical studies with EP-104GI in multiple additional gastrointestinal indications, including in esophageal strictures and fibrostenotic Crohn’s disease. A portion of the proceeds will be allocated to research and development of additional pipeline candidates, business development initiatives, and general corporate purposes, which may include but are not limited to employee salaries, working capital, leases for facilities, administrative expenses, and capital expenditures. The Company may also use a portion of the proceeds to expand its intellectual property portfolio and strengthen its corporate infrastructure to support future growth.The Offering was made pursuant to a U.S. registration statement on Form F-10, declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on February 7, 2024, and the Company's existing Canadian short form base shelf prospectus, (the "Base Prospectus") dated February 5, 2024. A preliminary prospectus supplement and a final prospectus supplement (the "Supplement”) relating to and describing the terms of the Offering were filed with the securities commissions in all of the provinces and territories of Canada, except Quebec, and with the SEC in the United States. The Supplement and accompanying Base Prospectus contain important detailed information about the Offering.The Supplement and accompanying Base Prospectus can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Copies of the Supplement and accompanying Base Prospectus may also be obtained from Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 110 East 59th Street, 6th Floor, New York, New York 10022, or by email at prospectus@cantor.com, from LifeSci Capital LLC at 1700 Broadway, 40th Floor, New York, New York 10019, or by email at compliance@lifescicapital.com, or from Bloom Burton Securities Inc. at ecm@bloomburton.com, or from Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC, Attention: Equity Capital Markets, 323 North Washington Ave., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55401, or by telephone at (612) 334-6300, or by email at prospectus@chlm.com.This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any province, state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such province, state or jurisdiction.About Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Inc.Eupraxia is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of locally delivered, extended-release products that have the potential to address therapeutic areas with high unmet medical need. DiffusphereTM, a proprietary, polymer-based micro-sphere technology, is designed to facilitate targeted drug delivery of both existing and novel drugs.Notice Regarding Forward-looking Statements and InformationThis news release includes forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "is expected", "expects", "suggests", "scheduled", "intends", "contemplates", "anticipates", "believes", "proposes", "potential" or variations (including negative and grammatical variations) of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the anticipated use of proceeds from the Offering; expectations around the expansion of the Company’s pipeline, additional development milestones with EP-104GI for eosinophilic esophagitis, and meaningful progress towards commercial readiness; expected capitalization into the first quarter of 2028; and the potential for the Company’s technology to impact the drug delivery process. Such statements and information are based on the current expectations of Eupraxia's management, and are based on assumptions, including but not limited to: future research and development plans for the Company proceeding substantially as currently envisioned; industry growth trends, including with respect to projected and actual industry sales; the Company's ability to obtain positive results from the Company's research and development activities, including clinical trials; and the Company's ability to protect patents and proprietary rights. Although Eupraxia's management believes that the assumptions underlying these statements and information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this news release may not occur by certain dates or at all and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Eupraxia, including, but not limited to: risks and uncertainties related to the Company's limited operating history; the Company's novel technology with uncertain market acceptance; if the Company breaches any of the agreements under which it licenses rights to its product candidates or technology from third parties, the Company could lose license rights that are important to its business; the Company's current license agreement may not provide an adequate remedy for its breach by the licensor; the Company's technology may not be successful for its intended use; the Company's future technology will require regulatory approval, which is costly and the Company may not be able to obtain it; the Company may fail to obtain regulatory approvals or only obtain approvals for limited uses or indications; the Company's clinical trials may fail to demonstrate adequately the safety and efficacy of its product candidates at any stage of clinical development; the Company may be required to suspend or discontinue clinical trials due to side effects or other safety risks; the Company completely relies on third parties to provide supplies and inputs required for its product candidates and services; the potential impact of tariffs on the cost of the Company’s active pharmaceutical ingredients and clinical supplies of EP-104IAR and EP-104GI; the Company relies on external contract research organizations to provide clinical and non-clinical research services; the Company may not be able to successfully execute its business strategy; the Company will require additional financing, which may not be available; any therapeutics the Company develops will be subject to extensive, lengthy and uncertain regulatory requirements, which could adversely affect the Company's ability to obtain regulatory approval in a timely manner, or at all; the impact of health pandemics or epidemics on the Company's operations; the Company's restatement of its consolidated financial statements, which may lead to additional risks and uncertainties, including loss of investor confidence and negative impacts on the Company's common share price; and other risks and uncertainties described in more detail in Eupraxia's public filings on SEDAR+ (sedarplus.ca) and EDGAR (sec.gov). Although Eupraxia has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements and information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. No forward-looking statement or information can be guaranteed. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements and information speak only as of the date on which they are made and Eupraxia undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.For investor and media inquiries, please contact:James Meikle, Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Inc.236.330.7084jmeikle@eupraxiapharma.comorKevin Gardner, on behalf of:Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Inc.617.283.2856kgardner@lifesciadvisors.comSOURCE Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Inc.
2026-02-20 20:21:04

Inscope Raises $14.5M Series A to Replace Manual Financial Statement Preparation for Accounting Firms and Enterprises
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Inscope, the AI-powered financial reporting platform built for accounting firms and enterprises, today announced it has raised $14.5 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Norwest, with participation from Storm Ventures, existing investors Better Tomorrow Ventures and Lightspeed Venture Partners, and strategic operators across finance and enterprise software.Over the past 12 months, the company has grown its customer base by more than 5× and increased annual recurring revenue by over 30×, driven by adoption among accounting firms and finance teams handling complex, high-volume reporting.In the past year, Inscope has focused on making its platform enterprise-ready, with investments in security, scalability, and auditability. The company is now onboarding several Top 100 accounting firms that support thousands of client engagements on Inscope, reflecting growing demand for standardized, firm-wide reporting infrastructure.The Last Manual Workflow in Finance Despite decades of investment in financial software, financial statement preparation and review remain largely manual. Accounting teams still rely on disconnected Excel files, static documents, email-driven review cycles, and last-minute changes - leading to rework, version confusion, and avoidable audit risk."Accurate and transparent financial reporting is what allows U.S. capital markets to function,” said Mary Antony, Co-Founder and CEO of Inscope. "But with increasing regulatory scrutiny and a shortage of accounting talent, relying on manual, fragmented workflows puts that trust at risk. Inscope provides the infrastructure teams need to produce high-quality, auditable financial statements at scale.”"Financial reporting breaks down when systems aren’t designed for collaboration and change,” said Kelsey Gootnick, Co-Founder and COO of Inscope. "Inscope replaces brittle, manual handoffs with a system that supports real-world review cycles and last-minute changes without breaking.”Inscope embeds intelligence directly into the financial reporting workflow, helping teams draft, roll forward, review, and validate financial statements while maintaining full audit trails and change control.Built for Both Sides of the AuditUnlike traditional reporting tools designed for a single user group, Inscope serves both enterprises preparing financial statements and the accounting firms that audit them. This shared infrastructure reduces handoffs, improves consistency, and lowers the risk of misstatements.Accounting firms using Inscope report 60% faster preparation cycles, improved consistency, and fewer review iterations late in the process."As an accounting advisory partner, consistency and trust are everything,” said Aric Johnstone, Partner at Williams Marston. "Inscope enables our teams to deliver higher-quality financial statements for our clients faster, with less rework during review.”What's NextSince its seed round, Inscope has expanded its technical leadership with the addition of Jared Tibshraeny as Co-Founder and CTO. AI engineering is led by Ankit Arya, who focuses on building systems that understand the structure and logic of financial statements."Most AI tools in finance operate at the surface level,” said Arya. "We’re building systems that understand how financial statements actually work - how tables roll forward, how disclosures connect, and where inconsistencies hide - while preserving auditability end to end.”With the Series A funding, Inscope plans to continue investing in its engineering and go-to-market teams while expanding support for complex reporting requirements across large organizations."Inscope is tackling a problem every CFO and accounting partner recognizes,” said Sean Jacobsohn, Partner at Norwest. "They’ve built AI that finance professionals trust - which is rare, and hard to earn.”The company has raised $18.8 million in total funding to date, including a $4.3 million seed round led by Lightspeed Venture Partners in 2023.About InscopeInscope is the AI-powered financial reporting platform that helps companies and accounting firms prepare, review, and deliver financial statements with greater accuracy and speed. By automating manual workflows and embedding intelligence directly into the reporting process, Inscope reduces risk, improves consistency, and shortens reporting cycles. Founded in 2023 by Mary Antony and Kelsey Gootnick, Inscope is backed by Norwest Venture Partners, Storm Ventures, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and BTV.CONTACT: Media ContactInscopeMary Antony, CEO and co-foundermary@inscopehq.com
2026-02-20 20:21:00

HUMAIN在xAI与SpaceX历史性合并前注资30亿美元E轮融资
在xAI被SpaceX收购前不久,HUMAIN向其E轮融资注资30亿美元,从而在平台规模扩张与整合的关键节点上占据了有利位置 交易完成后,HUMAIN成为重要少数股东,其持有的xAI股份随后转换为SpaceX股份 这项投资建立在HUMAIN与xAI在沙特阿拉伯500兆瓦人工智能基础设施合作项目基础之上,巩固了HUMAIN作为战略发展合作伙伴以及全球领先的前沿人工智能技术投资者的双重角色 沙特阿拉伯利雅得2026年2月19日 /美通社/ -- 作为一家在全球范围内提供全栈人工智能能力的PIF公司,HUMAIN今日宣布对xAI进行30亿美元的战略投资,参与其E轮融资。 此项交易代表了HUMAIN一次重要的端到端资本部署,反映了其专注于定义行业品类的技术平台的长期投资战略持续取得进展。 HUMAIN Backs xAI with $3 Billion Series E Investment Ahead of Historic SpaceX Merger 此次投资正值xAI一个极具吸引力的转折点,其后该公司于二月初被SpaceX收购。 xAI先进的人工智能能力与SpaceX的规模、基础设施和以使命为导向的工程能力相结合,打造了一个定位独特的平台,有望实现加速增长、深度技术整合和长期价值创造。 通过此次E轮融资交易,HUMAIN成为xAI的重要少数股东,其持股随后转换为SpaceX的股份。 此次交易为HUMAIN获取长期股权增值收益奠定了坚实基础,体现了其在合并前参与xAI最后一轮融资的战略布局。 HUMAIN首席执行官Tareq Amin表示:“此项投资反映了HUMAIN对变革性人工智能的坚定信念,以及我们将大量资本投入到那些集长期愿景、卓越技术与强大执行力于一身的非凡机遇中的能力。 xAI的发展轨迹,在被SpaceX收购(史上规模最大的科技并购案之一)后更显强劲,这正是我们寻求以雄厚资本支持的那种高影响力平台。” HUMAIN参与E轮融资,巩固了其作为规模化的长期战略投资者的角色,能够支持公司跨越多个发展阶段,同时在四大核心领域提供全栈人工智能能力:下一代数据中心;高性能基础设施与云平台;先进人工智能模型;以及变革性人工智能解决方案。 此次投资基于2025年11月在美国-沙特投资论坛(U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum)上宣布的大规模合作协议。根据该协议,HUMAIN与xAI承诺共同开发超过500兆瓦的下一代人工智能数据中心和计算基础设施,并在沙特阿拉伯部署xAI的Grok模型。 这些举措共同深化了长期合作关系,并将HUMAIN的角色从xAI的战略合作伙伴扩展为其全球领先股东。 展望未来,HUMAIN战略包括寻求在人工智能、前沿技术及重要基础架构领域开展更多的投资。
2026-02-19 10:36:00

Winter Wonders: Agoda's Search Insights Unveil South Korea's Winter Appeal among Inbound Travelers
SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the ongoing cold winter season, South Korea continues to attract interest from inbound travelers, fueled by a variety of seasonal events and activities available during the winter months. Reflecting this trend, digital travel platform Agoda has revealed the most searched destinations and preferred winter activities among international travelers visiting South Korea. According to Agoda's accommodation search data, Seoul ranked as the top destination among inbound travelers, followed by Jeju, Busan, Incheon, and Sokcho, completing the top five.Seoul's appeal was driven in part by the "Seoul Winter Festa," which features a range of seasonal attractions, such as the "Seoul Light Gwanghwamun," the "Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink," "Gwanghwamun Market," and "Seoul Light DDP." According to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the festival recorded an all-time high of nearly 11 million visitors, including both domestic and inbound travelers, reinforcing Seoul's popularity as a winter destination.Interest from international travelers is also expanding beyond major metropolitan areas. Sokcho, known for its local markets, fresh seafood, sweet and sour chicken, and other culinary delicacies, recorded a 37% year-on-year increase in accommodation searches according to Agoda. This may indicate a growing interest in secondary destinations among inbound travelers beyond the primary travel hubs.When it comes to source markets, Japanese travelers emerged as the top market expressing travel interest to South Korea in the winter season, according to accommodation searches made on Agoda. Taiwan ranked second, followed by China, Hong Kong, and Thailand. Thailand newly entered the top five this year, while China recorded the highest year-on-year growth in travel interest among the top five source markets at 56%, potentially influenced by the visa-free entry policy for Chinese group travelers.When looking at the winter activity preferences, Agoda's activities booking data shows that tickets to major theme parks and tourist attractions in Seoul and Busan ranked highest, such as Lotte World and N Seoul Tower Observatory. In addition, foreigner-exclusive tour passes, such as the Visit Busan Pass, and traditional wellness offerings such as SPA LAND Centum City and Aquafield Jimjilbang Spa & Sauna ranked among the top activities. These findings could point to an increasing preference for convenient all-in-one sightseeing options, alongside opportunities for rest and recovery during winter vacations.Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia at Agoda, said, "South Korea offers an array of winter experiences, ranging from scenic snowscapes and delicious winter snacks to traditional jjimjilbangs that provide warmth during the colder months. Agoda's data reflects a growing demand for experiences that integrate entertainment, convenience, and relaxation. In response, Agoda remains committed to providing competitive deals and a broad selection of accommodations, flights, and activities for both inbound and domestic travelers this winter season and beyond."Travelers planning trips within South Korea are encouraged to check out Agoda's great value deals on over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities and experiences that are available on the platform. The latest deals are available in the Agoda app or on agoda.com/deals.
2026-02-18 00:37:08

Substandard government projects to become a crime under Sandro Marcos bill
If House Majority Leader Ilocos Norte 1st district Rep. Sandro Marcos would have his way, he would make substandard government projects a punishable crime.This is provided for under Rep. Marcos\' HB No.2811, also known as the proposed "Criminalizing Negligent Contractors Act"."Any contractor, subcontractor, or person acting on their behalf who, through gross negligence, causes the quality of work on a government project to fall below the standards prescribed in the contract, applicable laws, or technical specifications, shall be held criminally liable," read the presidential son\'s bill.In what could be viewed as a response to President Marcos\' State of the Nation Addess (SONA) last July 28, 2025, wherein he blasted anomalous flood control projects, Rep. Marcos filed the bill just three days later."The State shall promote the integrity of government projects by ensuring the optimum quality with which they are undertaken. As such, it shall outlaw the negligence of contractors and subcontractors of government projects," it read."Govemnment infrastructure projects must be implemented with strict adherence to standards of safety and quality, as prescribed by law and by competent authorities. These standards are not mere formalities, they are essential safeguards of public welfare, fiscal responsibility, and the long-term utility of state investments," HB No.2811 further stated.Section 4 of the bill reads: "Any person, including contractors, subcontractors, corporate officers, government employees, or juridical entity found guilty of gross negligence under this Act, whether as principal, accomplice, or accessory, shall suffer the penalty of imprisonment of not less than six (6) years but not more than twelve (12) years; or a fine of not less than Ten Million Pesos (P10,000,000.00); or both at the discretion of the court."The court shall also automatically impose, alongside the principal penalty, the accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office and from participating, directly or indirectly, in any government procurement or project."Gross negligence" under HB No.2811 includes, but is not limited to, acts or omissions that result in material deviation from contract specifications or approved plans, compromise of structural integrity or public safety, or use of substandard materials.In filing the measure, Rep. Marcos argued that the Constitution "demands accountability not only for acts of corruption but also for gross negligence, which can result in wasteful spending, substandard outputs, and threats to public safety"."Further, this bill strengthens the accountability framework across the procurement and project implementation, and protects the Filipino people from the grave consequences of negligent execution of government-funded projects," added the second-term congressman.
2026-02-18 00:25:00

CECO Environmental to Release Fourth Quarter Earnings and Host Conference Call on February 24
ADDISON, Texas, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CECO Environmental Corp. (Nasdaq: CECO), a leading environmentally focused, diversified industrial company whose solutions protect people, the environment and industrial equipment, today announced that it will report its fourth quarter 2025 financial results on February 24, 2026, premarket. The Company will also host its earnings call starting at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (7:30 a.m. CT). The Company’s financial results and presentation will be posted on its website at www.cecoenviro.com.The details for the webcast are:When: Tuesday, February 24 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern TimeWhere: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/esi9fzv8How: Live over the internet - Simply log on to the web at the address aboveRegister to receive the dial-in info and a unique pin: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIef187ad40fff4b6eaf15a109421408aeA replay of the conference call will be available on the Company's website shortly after the live webcast has concluded.ABOUT CECO ENVIRONMENTALCECO Environmental is a leading environmentally focused, diversified industrial company, serving a broad landscape of industrial air, industrial water, and energy transition markets globally through its key business segments: Engineered Systems and Industrial Process Solutions. Providing innovative technology and application expertise, CECO helps companies grow their business with safe, clean, and more efficient solutions that help protect people, the environment and industrial equipment. In regions around the world, CECO works to improve air quality, optimize the energy value chain, and provide custom solutions for applications in power generation, petrochemical processing, refining, midstream gas transport and treatment, electric vehicle and battery production, metals and mineral processing, polysilicon production, battery recycling, beverage can production, and produced and oily water/wastewater treatment along with a wide range of other industrial applications. CECO is listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol "CECO." Incorporated in 1966, CECO’s global headquarters is in Addison, Texas. For more information, please visit www.cecoenviro.com.CECO Environmental Investor Contact:Marcio PintoVice President - Financial Planning & Investor Relations888-990-6670Investor.Relations@OneCECO.com Steven Hooser and Jean Marie YoungThree Part Advisors214-872-2710Investor.Relations@OneCECO.comCECO Environmental Media and Communication Contact:Rachael Gallodoro214-350-2992ceco-communications@OneCECO.com
2026-02-18 00:23:27

Aquino pushes for more consultation on DepEd’s proposed trimestral system
Senator Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV on Sunday, February 15 called for a comprehensive discussion on the Department of Education’s (DepEd) proposed transition to a trimester system.**media[79464]**This after DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara announced plans to pursue the proposal which is aimed at allowing longer and more flexible instructional periods, reducing teacher workload and promoting higher-quality instruction by improving organization of academic year.But Aquino, who heads the Senate Committee on Basic Education, urged the agency to implement dialogues to check the feasibility of the proposal.“Before the DepEd implements the trimester system, it is important that it undergo extensive consultation,” Aquino said in a statement.“We will ensure that there is a Senate Hearing on this reform, to review and discuss it,” he further said.Aquino said the panel supports proposals and reforms that would address the learning gap and help teachers, who are currently overloaded with non-teaching tasks. “While we recognize the need for extensive reform, let us ensure that it is not done hastily and that it goes through proper consultation,” he said. Earlier, Angara said the proposed trimestral system would help create longer, uninterrupted periods of learning, better pacing of lessons and lower administrative burden for teachers, citing the findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education or EDCOM 2.“In this way, we are safeguarding the quality of education,” Angara said.
2026-02-15 04:53:00

Beko Announces CEO Transition; Strategic Continuity and Sustainability to Remain Core Priorities
ISTANBUL, Feb. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Beko (Arçelik A.Ş.) (Bloomberg: ARCLK TI) today announced that Hakan Bulgurlu will step down as Chief Executive Officer as of the company's next General Assembly, concluding an 11-year tenure during which he led the company through a period of significant international expansion and sustainability transformation. He will be succeeded by Can Dinçer, currently General Manager of Arçelik Türkiye and Chief Commercial Officer for South Asia and Türkiye.Hakan Bulgurlu Bulgurlu, who has spent 32 years within the Koç Group, will remain on the Board of Beko B.V. through June 2026 to ensure a seamless transition. He will also complete his term as President of APPLiA, the European home appliance association.This leadership transition follows a structured succession plan designed to ensure strategic continuity and build on Beko's position as a global appliance manufacturer.New Leadership with Deep Operational ExperienceCan Dinçer has held multiple leadership roles across Beko's international operations over a 33-year career spanning Türkiye, Europe, the Americas and Asia-Pacific. Throughout his tenure, Dinçer has played a pivotal role in strengthening the company's market position in Türkiye and delivering consistent commercial performance growth. He has also been instrumental in sustaining stable performance across the South Asia region, reinforcing execution discipline and customer-focused strategies in diverse and competitive markets.A Legacy of International Expansion and Sustainability LeadershipDuring Bulgurlu's tenure, Beko expanded its global footprint and strengthened its competitive position in Europe and beyond through acquisitions, strategic partnerships and integrations across multiple regions, including Singer in Bangladesh, Dawlance in Pakistan, Voltas Beko in India and Arçelik-Hitachi in Asia-Pacific. The creation of Beko Europe and the integration of Whirlpool's MENA operations further reinforced the company's scale and market presence.During this period, sustainability also became more closely integrated into the company's long-term strategy, with climate targets aligned to international standards and operational improvements across its manufacturing footprint. Bulgurlu championed the view that climate responsibility and commercial performance are mutually reinforcing.
2026-02-13 18:39:19

CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. Announces Expansion of Board of Directors and Appointment of New Director
Annual Meeting of Shareholders Set for April 30, 2026BROOKFIELD, Wis., Feb. 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. (the "Company” or "CIB Marine”) (OTCQX: CIBH), the parent company of CIBM Bank, has approved an expansion of the Board from nine to ten members. The newly created seat has been filled with the appointment of Mr. Dennis Pollack, effective February 16, 2026. Mr. Pollack will also join the Board of Directors of the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, CIBM Bank.Mr. Pollack will serve in the director class scheduled to stand for re‐election at the Company’s 2028 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.The Company also announced that its 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders will be held virtually on April 30, 2026. Standing for election at the 2026 Annual Meeting will be Directors Gina M. Cocking, Mark A. Elste, and Steven C. Palmitier."We are very pleased to welcome Mr. Pollack to our Boards,” said Mark Elste, Chairman of CIB Marine. "He brings extensive leadership experience within financial institutions and a deep understanding of the banking industry. His banking expertise, knowledge of the broader markets, and skills in strategic planning and implementation will further strengthen our commitment to creating value for our shareholders and we look forward to his contributions.”Mr. Pollack brings significant board and executive management experience to CIB Marine. His background includes executive roles at Sony Corporation of America, the Connecticut Bank of Commerce, the Savings Bank of Rockland County, and Paulson & Company. He has served on the boards of several depository institutions, including TF Financial Corp., SI Financial Group, Prudential Bancorp, and Provident Bancorp. CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for CIBM Bank, which operates nine banking offices and has mortgage loan officers and/or offices in six states. More information on the Company is available at www.cibmarine.com, including recent shareholder letters, links to regulatory financial reports, and audited financial statements.FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSCIB Marine has made statements in this release that may constitute "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. CIB Marine intends these forward-looking statements to be subject to the safe harbor created thereby and is including this statement to avail itself of the safe harbor. Forward-looking statements are identified generally by statements containing words and phrases such as "may,” "project,” "are confident,” "should be,” "intend,” "predict,” "believe,” "plan,” "expect,” "estimate,” "anticipate” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect CIB Marine’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance that are subject to many uncertainties and factors relating to CIB Marine’s operations and the business environment, which could change at any time.There are inherent difficulties in predicting factors that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements. Stockholders should note that many factors, some of which are discussed elsewhere in this release and in the documents that are incorporated by reference, could affect the future financial results of CIB Marine and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this document. These factors, many of which are beyond CIB Marine’s control, include but are not limited to:operating, legal, execution, credit, market, security (including cyber), and regulatory risks;economic, political, and competitive forces affecting CIB Marine’s banking business;the impact on net interest income and securities values from changes in monetary policy and general economic and political conditions; andthe risk that CIB Marine’s analyses of these risks and forces could be incorrect and/or that the strategies developed to address them could be unsuccessful.These factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. CIB Marine undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and CIB Marine’s actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements.FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:J. Brian Chaffin, President & CEO(217) 355-0900brian.chaffin@cibmbank.com
2026-02-13 18:36:41

Proem Acquisition Corp I Announces Closing of $130 Million Initial Public Offering
Dallas, Texas, United States, Feb. 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Proem Acquisition Corp I (the "Company”) announced the closing of its initial public offering of 13,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit on February 13, 2026. Total gross proceeds from the offering were $130,000,000 before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses payable by the Company.The units began trading on the Nasdaq Global Market ("NASDAQ”) under the ticker symbol "PAACU” on February 12, 2026. Each unit consists of one ordinary share of the Company and one-half of one redeemable warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one ordinary share of the Company at a price of $11.50 per share. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the ordinary shares and the warrants are expected to be traded on NASDAQ under the symbols "PAAC” and "PAACW,” respectively.The Company was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an initial business combination in any business or industry.Clear Street LLC acted as lead book-running manager. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to 1,950,000 additional units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.A registration statement relating to the securities sold in the initial public offering was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”) on February 11, 2026. The public offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained from Clear Street LLC, Attn: Syndicate Department, 150 Greenwich Street, 45th floor, New York, NY 10007, by email at ecm@clearstreet.io.This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.About Proem Acquisition Corp IProem Acquisition Corp I is a blank check company newly incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company and formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company has not selected any specific business combination target and has not, nor has anyone on its behalf, engaged in any substantive discussions, directly or indirectly, with any business combination target with respect to an initial business combination with the Company. The Company’s management team is led by Imran Khan, the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, and Greg Pearson, the Chief Financial Officer. In addition, the Board includes John Wu, David Eckstein, Amarnath Thombre, and Andrey Kazakov.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the Company’s initial public offering ("IPO”) including the gross proceeds of the IPO, the anticipated use of the net proceeds from the IPO and the search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated or that the Company will ultimately complete a business combination transaction in the sectors it is targeting or at all. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of Proem Acquisition Corp I, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of Proem Acquisition Corp I’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the IPO filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Proem Acquisition Corp I undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.Contacts:Greg PearsonChief Financial Officer(214) 706-9344
2026-02-13 18:36:40

Chemed Corporation Board of Directors Authorizes an Additional $300 Million for Stock Repurchase and Declares Quarterly Dividend of 60 Cents
CINCINNATI, Feb. 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chemed Corporation (NYSE:CHE) announced today that the Board of Directors has formally authorized an additional $300 million for stock repurchase under Chemed’s existing share repurchase program. These share repurchases will be funded through a combination of cash generated from operations as well as utilization of its revolving credit facility.The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 60-cents per share on the Company’s capital stock, payable on March 13, 2026, to shareholders of record as of February 23, 2026. This is equal to the dividend paid in December 2025. This represents the 219th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by Chemed in its 54 years as a public company.Listed on the New York Stock Exchange and headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chemed Corporation (www.chemed.com) operates two wholly owned subsidiaries: VITAS Healthcare and Roto-Rooter. VITAS is the nation's largest provider of end-of-life hospice care and Roto-Rooter is the nation’s leading provider of plumbing and drain cleaning services.Statements in this press release or in other Chemed communications may relate to future events or Chemed's future performance. Such statements are forward-looking statements and are based on present information Chemed has related to its existing business circumstances. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risk that actual results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Further, investors are cautioned that Chemed does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements based on unanticipated events or changed expectations.CONTACT: Michael D. Witzeman(513) 762-6714
2026-02-13 18:36:37

Regent Hong Kong Awarded Coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five-star Rating For 2026
HONG KONG, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Regent Hong Kong is honoured to be recognized as a Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Hotel in the newly unveiled 2026 Star Rating list. This prestigious distinction reaffirms our place among the world's most exceptional luxury destinations and celebrates our unwavering dedication to quietly attentive, bespoke, and intuitive service, as well as extraordinary culinary excellence across our acclaimed Dining Destination. Perched at the edge of Victoria Harbour, Regent Hong Kong is a sanctuary of timeless elegance and contemporary refinement. "We are deeply honoured to be recognized by Forbes Travel Guide with a Five-Star award, which marks an important milestone for Regent Hong Kong," said Michel Chertouh, Managing Director of Regent Hong Kong. "This recognition is both a celebration of our dedicated team and a vote of confidence in Hong Kong as a world-class tourism and hospitality destination." Perched at the edge of Victoria Harbour, Regent Hong Kong is a sanctuary of timeless elegance and contemporary refinement. Reimagined by renowned designer Chi Wing Lo, the hotel's interiors reveal an artful interplay of understated luxury and meticulous craftsmanship, balancing sweeping cinematic views of Victoria Harbour and the iconic Hong Kong skyline with intimate, thoughtfully detailed spaces that invite calm, reflection, and connection. At the heart of the experience, Regent Experience Agents curate highly personalized journeys that unfold with effortless grace – from epicurean explorations and bespoke city excursions to quietly exquisite moments framed by the harbour's shimmering waters. Throughout the hotel, guests discover Personal Havens: tranquil settings conceived for rest, restoration, and meaningful connection, whether reclining on a windowfront daybed with a cup of tea or immersing in an Oasis Bathroom bathtub overlooking the harbour, every detail is shaped by tranquility, privacy, and a deep sense of care. "Forbes Travel Guide's Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality," said Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. "This year's list reflects the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today's discerning guest." Room reservations are available via our hotel's website https://hongkong.regenthotels.com/ or via the IHG One Rewards App and WeChat Mini-programme. For more information or to make reservations, please contact us at +852 2313 2333 or email reservations.regenthk@ihg.com. A variety of high-resolution images: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAqESF
2026-02-12 09:00:00

Weibo Corporation to Report Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Results on March 18, 2026
BEIJING, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Weibo Corporation (Nasdaq: WB and HKEX: 9898), a leading social media for people to create, share and discover content, will announce its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year 2025 before the U.S. market opens on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Following the announcement, Weibo's management team will host a conference call from 7 AM – 8 AM Eastern Time on March 18, 2026 (or 7 PM – 8 PM Beijing Time on March 18, 2026) to present an overview of the Company's financial performance and business operations. Participants who wish to dial in to the teleconference must register through the below public participant link. Dial in and instruction will be in the confirmation email upon registering. Participants Registration Link: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI9a9688ac375946edb8d4042347b0d850 Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this conference call will be available at http://ir.weibo.com. About Weibo Corporation Weibo is a leading social media for people to create, share and discover content online. Weibo combines the means of public self-expression in real time with a powerful platform for social interaction, content aggregation and content distribution. Any user can create and post a feed and attach multi-media and long-form content. User relationships on Weibo may be asymmetric; any user can follow any other user and add comments to a feed while reposting. This simple, asymmetric and distributed nature of Weibo allows an original feed to become a live viral conversation stream. Weibo enables its advertising and marketing customers to promote their brands, products and services to users. Weibo offers a wide range of advertising and marketing solutions to companies of all sizes. The Company generates a substantial majority of its revenues from the sale of advertising and marketing services, including the sale of social display advertisement and promoted marketing offerings. Designed with a "mobile first" philosophy, Weibo displays content in a simple information feed format and offers native advertisement that conform to the information feed on our platform. To support the mobile format, we have developed and continuously refining our social interest graph recommendation engine, which enables our customers to perform people marketing and target audiences based on user demographics, social relationships, interests and behaviors, to achieve greater relevance, engagement and marketing effectiveness Contact:Investor RelationsWeibo CorporationPhone: +86 10 5898-3336Email: ir@staff.weibo.com
2026-02-12 09:00:00

IFS Asset Management recognised as Singapore's Fund Launch of the Year in Asia Asset Management Best of the Best Awards 2026
SINGAPORE, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- IFS Asset Management ("IFSAM"), a licensed fund management company that is a subsidiary of IFS Capital Limited and part of the PhillipCapital Group, has been awarded Singapore's Fund Launch of the Year at the Asia Asset Management Best of the Best Awards 2026 ("AAM Awards"), recognising the successful launch and market impact of the IFSAM Private Credit Income Fund ("IPCIF").The AAM Awards celebrate exceptional innovation, performance, and leadership across the Asia-Pacific financial sector. The Singapore's Fund Launch of the Year award recognises the most successful fund launch in Singapore, based on execution quality, innovation, and measurable market impact. IFSAM was selected for its disciplined and differentiated approach to launching a scalable private credit solution aligned with evolving investor needs.The IFSAM Private Credit Income Fund was introduced through a coordinated launch strategy encompassing product design, investor education, distribution readiness, and operational scalability. The fund achieved strong early adoption, reflecting investor demand for income-oriented strategies. A key differentiator behind the award was the fund's innovative structure, which addressed a longstanding gap in Singapore's private credit market.The fund is among the first semi-liquid, open-ended private credit funds in Singapore designed for wealth distribution channels, bridging the gap between illiquid close-ended private credit funds and daily-liquidity fixed income products. This investor-centric design broadened investor access to private credit while maintaining a focus on senior secured, asset-backed lending and prudent risk management.IFSAM's strategy is centred on the opportunity in Asia's underpenetrated private credit market, focusing on senior secured, real estate-backed lending to address the funding gap for creditworthy SMEs. By embedding liquidity design, governance, and scalability from inception, the strategy sets a new benchmark for how private credit funds can be structured for resilience within Singapore's private markets landscape.Backed by IFS Capital's nearly four decades of credit experience, IFSAM combines institutional-grade risk management with deep local market expertise. The recognition reflects the firm's ability to design and deliver private credit strategies that are resilient, well structured, and relevant across market cycles."This accolade affirms not only the strength of IFSAM's flagship private credit strategy, but also our broader commitment to building high-quality, income-oriented private credit solutions designed to perform across market cycles," said Randy Sim, Group CEO IFS Capital."From the outset, the strategy was designed with structure, discipline, and scalability at its core," said Charis Liau, Chief Investment Officer of IFS Asset Management. "This recognition reflects our focus on building private credit solutions that are thoughtfully structured, resilient across market cycles, and aligned with the evolving needs of investors."About IFS Capital LimitedIFS Capital Limited is a specialist financial institution providing private credit origination, insurance, and asset management services to SMEs, consumers, and investors across Asia. We operate through offices in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong (SAR). Incorporated in Singapore in 1987 and listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange since 1993, IFS Capital is part of the PhillipCapital Group.For more information, visit: www.ifscapital.com.sgAbout IFS Asset ManagementIFS Asset Management (IFSAM) is a Singapore-based fund management company licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. IFSAM, a subsidiary of IFS Capital Limited, specialises in private credit investments with a focus on asset-backed lending to SMEs in Singapore. With a commitment to disciplined investing and long-term partnerships, the firm combines deep local knowledge with institutional expertise to generate resilient risk-adjusted returns for its investors. IFSAM serves only Accredited Investors and Institutional Investors.For more information, visit www.ifsam.com.sg, or contact info@ifsam.com.sgMedia Contact: IFSCapital@cognitomedia.com
2026-02-12 08:50:24

BioDlink Recognized by Client for Enabling the World's First Dual-Payload ADC to Enter Clinical Trials
BioDlink received a formal letter of appreciation from Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceutical Group for its contribution to advancing KH815, the world's first dual-payload antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) to enter clinical development. BioDlink enabled IND approval 1.5 months ahead of schedule through efficient process development, manufacturing, and analytical execution. SUZHOU, China, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BioDlink announced that it has received a formal letter of appreciation from its client, Chengdu Kanghong Pharmaceutical Group ("Kanghong Pharmaceutical"), recognizing BioDlink's critical contribution to the successful clinical approval of KH815, the world's first dual-payload antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) to enter clinical development. KH815 is a first-in-class dual-payload ADC independently developed by Kanghong Pharmaceutical. The program achieved a major regulatory milestone with approval from Australia's Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) on March 21, 2025 followed by clinical trial authorization in China on April 15, 2025. As Kanghong Pharmaceutical's CDMO partner, BioDlink supported the program across the full development lifecycle, including process development, analytical method development and validation, and formulation research. Efficient Execution of a Complex First-in-Class Program KH815 required advanced process design and analytical control, including precise management of drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) and comprehensive product characterization. Leveraging its expertise in complex ADC development, BioDlink delivered a robust, scalable, and reproducible manufacturing solution despite limited material availability and aggressive timelines. Despite the complexity of conjugation process development and analytical characterization, BioDlink applied strong technical expertise to define and lock robust process and analytical strategies, enabling successful scale-up and batch release. Through continuous process optimization, development, manufacturing, and regulatory submission activities were completed 1.5 months ahead of plan, exceeding client expectations and demonstrating strong execution capability, which earned high recognition from Kanghong Pharmaceutical for BioDlink's technical expertise and service excellence. Advancing Innovation in ADC Development The successful progression of KH815 underscores the growing potential of dual-payload ADC technologies and highlights the value of close collaboration across industry and research. BioDlink remains committed to providing end-to-end CDMO services to global partners, accelerating the development of complex biologics from early development through commercialization. About Kanghong PharmaceuticalKanghong is a publicly traded pharmaceutical company based in the province of Sichuan, China. It was founded in 1996 and researches, develops, manufactures, and distributes medicines for ophthalmic, neuropsychiatric and others. Kanghong is devoted to the lives of patients through high quality, innovation and responsibility. Since its establishment, the company keeps researching, producing, and commercializing safer and more efficient drugs for pressing unmet medical needs. The company's purpose is to fundamentally improve patients' physical ability and social medical efficacy by using innovative science and breakthrough treatments to achieve progress in human health. About BioDlinkBioDlink (1875.HK) is a leading global CDMO specializing in biologics and bioconjugates (ADCs/XDCs). Headquartered in Suzhou with centers in Shanghai and Beijing, the company provides fully integrated, end-to-end services spanning early R&D through commercial manufacturing. With its one-base integrated platform and proprietary technologies—such as BDKcell® for rapid cell line development and GL-DisacLink® for site-specific conjugation—BioDlink helps partners accelerate development, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. The company operates four commercial manufacturing lines with large-scale sterile fill-finish capabilities, backed by a global GMP-aligned quality system that has earned PMDA accreditation in Japan and supported product approvals across China, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Colombia and Bolivian. Guided by the philosophy of "Quality First, Innovation Driven, Success Together", BioDlink is committed to advancing global access to next-generation biologics and building trusted partnerships worldwide. For more information, please visit: https://biodlink.com/
2026-02-09 13:00:00

DIFF Biotech's Innovative Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccine Receives Clinical Trial Approval, Introducing a New Attenuation Pathway
HANGZHOU, China, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Zhejiang Difference Biological Technology Co., Ltd. (DIFF Biotech) announced that its proprietary nasal spray influenza attenuated live vaccine, DIFF-flu, has recently received clinical trial approval as a Class 1.2 innovative vaccine from China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). As the first domestically self-developed nasal spray influenza vaccine in China to advance into clinical trial, DIFF-flu leverages a pioneering M2 gene–modified attenuation technology, protected by multiple international invention patents. This achievement underscores DIFF Biotech's leading capabilities in respiratory infectious disease prevention and establishes an important foundation for future industrialization. Dr. Jiasheng Song, Chief Executive Officer of DIFF Biotech, commented: "DIFF-flu's clinical approval marks a major milestone for DIFF Biotech and a meaningful achievement for independent innovation in respiratory infectious disease prevention. As a next-generation attenuation platform, DIFF-flu is designed to achieve an optimal balance between immunogenicity and safety—an advance that holds significant potential for improving influenza protection. We believe this progress will help expand access to safer, more effective influenza prevention, particularly for older adults and other vulnerable populations. DIFF Biotech will continue to drive next-generation vaccine innovation to strengthen public health and contribute to global biomedical progress." A New Attenuation Strategy: Replication Restriction for Enhanced Safety DIFF-flu is developed using an innovative M2 gene–modification strategy that produces a replication-restricted vaccine strain. This approach achieves a deliberate balance between robust attenuation and strong immunogenicity—generating a potent immune response while maintaining an exceptional safety profile. In essence, the technology places a "safety harness" on the virus to prevent uncontrolled replication. Existing nasal spray influenza vaccines on the market rely on cold-adapted attenuation, allowing the vaccine virus to replicate efficiently only at lower temperatures such as those in the nasal cavity but limiting replication in the warmer lower respiratory system and lungs. Because these strains can still replicate in nasal mucosa and cause mild viral shedding, they are generally not recommended for older adults or immunocompromised individuals. Preclinical data indicate that DIFF-flu offers a differentiated safety profile, with negligible viral shedding, and significantly reduced viral loads in respiratory tissues, suggesting the potential to extend nasal spray vaccine eligibility to older adults and other underserved groups. Notably, preclinical data show that DIFF-flu confers 100% protection against epidemic strains circulating more than 50 years ago, while also eliciting strong immunity against contemporary variants. Market Landscape: At-Home Use Policies Unlock Global Opportunities The global influenza vaccine market is undergoing a period of structural evolution. While injectable vaccines remain the predominant format, they continue to face long-standing challenges such as suboptimal uptake and limited ability to curb viral transmission. Nasal spray vaccines—which induce mucosal immunity directly at the site of viral entry—represent an increasingly important direction for influenza prevention. In September 2024, the U.S. FDA granted authorization for at-home administration of a related nasal spray influenza vaccine, paving the way for direct-to-consumer (DTC) distribution models. This regulatory milestone significantly improves convenience and accessibility for the public and creates favorable conditions for DIFF-flu's future global introduction. Global Influenza Burden Underscores the Need to Strengthen Herd Immunity According to the World Health Organization (WHO), seasonal influenza infects up to 1 billion people each year, causing 3–5 million severe cases and 290,000–650,000 respiratory deaths globally. Older adults account for the majority of influenza-related deaths and face heightened risks of complications such as pneumonia, myocarditis, encephalitis, and acute cardiorespiratory failure. Studies show that influenza vaccination can reduce hospitalization risk by 40–60%, making improved vaccine coverage especially critical for aging and medically vulnerable populations. Despite this, vaccination rates remain low in many parts of the world. In China, influenza vaccination coverage is approximately 3.8%, far below mature markets such as the United States (around 49.3%). Increasing vaccination uptake is essential to protect high-risk groups and strengthen community-level immunity. About DIFF Biotech Zhejiang Difference Biological Technology Co., Ltd. (DIFF Biotech) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in its proprietary Viraltech Architect Platform. Leveraging this platform, the company has built an integrated, end-to-end capability for the development of differentiated biologics. DIFF Biotech has filed over 70 domestic and international invention patents, including more than 10 PCT applications, and has received multiple honors such as the 23rd China Excellent Patent Award, "High-tech Enterprise" and "Quasi-Unicorn" enterprise. The company's R&D efforts span mucosal vaccines, antiviral drugs, oncolytic viruses, and gene therapy products. Its vaccine pipeline—powered by proprietary attenuation technologies—effectively establishes the body's first line of defense at the mucosal barrier, offering clear competitive differentiation. In the oncolytic virus and gene therapy domains, DIFF Biotech has built distinctive capabilities in vector targeting, controllable replication, and high-efficiency gene delivery, enabling the development of advanced, next-generation biologics. For more information, please visit https://en.diff-biotech.com/. E-mail: BD@diff-biotech.com
2026-02-09 13:00:00

'Made in India - The story of Desh Bandhu Gupta, Lupin and Indian Pharma' Book Launched in Mumbai
MUMBAI, India, Feb. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Made in India, written by Sundeep Khanna and Manish Sabharwal, traces three remarkable journeys: the rise of India's pharma industry, the birth and evolution of Lupin (BSE: 500257) (NSE: LUPIN) (REUTERS: LUPIN.BO) (BLOOMBERG: LPCIN) and the extraordinary life of its founder, Desh Bandhu Gupta. Together, the three journeys illuminate how a country once completely dependent on imported medicines became the world's pharmacy. The book shares how an individual's life, shaped early by adversity, growing up without privilege or patronage, unpredictably nurtured hunger and drive, to navigate an unforgiving state, blend national health priorities and global standards, to build a multibillion-dollar enterprise whose medicines reach patients in over 120 countries.(L to R) - Dilip Shanghvi, Sun Pharma; Dr. Yusuf Hamied, Cipla; G.V. Prasad, Dr. Reddy’s; Prof. M. M. Sharma, Ex-(UDCT) ICT; Vinita Gupta, Lupin; Moderator, Manish Sabharwal.Made in India shows the distance travelled by a village boy from Rajasthan, who went on to become a teacher, professor and pharmaceutical employee, before founding a company worth $10 billion. It is the story of how an unlikely entrepreneur, given his role models, fought the system and left teaching and pharma jobs, going on to build a successful company, giving wings to a world-class industry and became a business icon for a nation.Written with candor by TeamLease Services co-founder Manish Sabharwal and journalist Sundeep Khanna, the book confronts failures, financial crises, and the personal toll of leadership, alongside achievement and success, in the building of one of the world's biggest generics firms. This is a riveting portrait of entrepreneurship without mythmaking - of how institutions are built slowly, tested severely and rebuilt with resolve. Made in India weaves vivid anecdotes tracing Desh Bandhu Gupta's transformation from a humble professor to a pharma titan, finding his true calling in tending to the unmet needs of people. It issues a powerful call to future leaders, showcasing his journey of visionary entrepreneurship: rising from setbacks with raw grit and unshakeable conviction. Made in India also spotlights Desh Bandhu Gupta's wife Manju Gupta's pivotal role amid the trials and triumphs of building Lupin. Together, the couple also built community service and rural support programs, even as Lupin and India became a reliable global supplier of pharmaceuticals.India has today become the world's pharmacy: Nearly half of the 400 billion pills Americans consume every year are made in India, as are 60 per cent of the world's vaccines. Of the 700 US Food and Drug Administration-approved factories that sell medicines in the US, a third are located in India. The co-creators of Indian pharma - Dr. Yusuf Hamied (Cipla), Anji Reddy (Dr. Reddy's), Parvinder Singh (Ranbaxy), Dilip Shanghvi (Sun), Ramanbhai Patel (Zydus-Cadila), Habil Khorakiwala (Wockhardt) and DBG (Lupin) - matter more to India than their companies' revenues, exports or profits because they saw something no one else did. Together, they raised India's soft and hard power, demolished the myth that multinationals possess unfair advantages over Indian companies, and ended pessimism about India's ability to export goods, making pharma India's biggest manufacturing success. Together, they showed the world that a developing nation can dominate a complex industry when brilliant entrepreneurs meet smart policy. Together, they made India 'Pharmacy to the world'.Made in India came alive during the launch as the authors, and the publisher shared their journeys, followed by a rich and engaging panel discussion on 'Past and Future of Indian Pharma' with pharma leaders Dilip Shanghvi, Sun Pharma, Dr. Yusuf Hamied, Cipla, G.V. Prasad, Dr. Reddy's, Vinita Gupta, Lupin, and Prof. M. M. Sharma, Ex-(UDCT) ICT. The panel discussed insights on leadership, nation-building, and the Indian pharma industry's crucial role in making healthcare affordable and accessible globally. Praise for the book:Dilip Sanghvi of Sun Pharma said, "DBG was a visionary whose heart beat for India and for Indian patients. His relentless focus on excellence defined his personality. He was a remarkable role model for all of us and one of the true architects who helped shape India's journey to becoming the pharmacy to the world".Yusuf Hamied of Cipla said, "DBG built Lupin from extremely modest beginnings, guided by determination and a deep commitment to serving patients. DBG's life story is not only inspiring, but also a reminder of how one individuals purpose can make healthcare accessible and affordable across the world".Made in India is a book for everyone thinking about India's place in the world, seeking role models of a world leading industry from India, entrepreneurs and business people looking for inspiration about building a valuable company, and finally, India's young and their parents, aiming to build ambition, exploration and determination. About LupinLupin Limited is a global pharmaceutical leader headquartered in Mumbai, India, with products distributed in over 120 markets. Lupin specializes in pharmaceutical products, including branded and generic formulations, complex generics, biotechnology products, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Trusted by healthcare professionals and consumers globally, the company enjoys a strong position in India and the U.S. across multiple therapy areas, including respiratory, cardiovascular, anti-diabetic, anti-infective, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, and women's health. Lupin has 15 state-of-the-art manufacturing sites and 7 research centers globally, along with a dedicated workforce of over 24,000 professionals. Lupin is committed to improving patient health outcomes through its subsidiaries - Lupin Diagnostics, Lupin Digital Health, and Lupin Manufacturing Solutions. Lupin Human Welfare and Research Foundation has impacted more than 2.02 million beneficiaries across 5400 villages in 26 districts, spread across eight states in India.To know more, visit www.lupin.com or follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/lupin (L to R) - Author Sundeep Khanna; Chiki Sarkar, Juggernaut Books;Manju D Gupta, Lupin;Dilip Shanghvi, Sun Pharma; Vinita Gupta, Lupin; Dr. Yusuf Hamied, Cipla; Prof. M. M. Sharma, Ex-(UDCT) ICT; G.V. Prasad, Dr. Reddy’s;Nilesh Gupta, Lupin; Author Manish Sabharwal.
2026-02-09 12:53:59

The consumer-friendly Energy Star program survived Trump. What about other efficiency efforts?
Energy Star, the program that helps guide consumers to more energy-efficient appliances and electronics, has survived the Trump administration\'s plans to cut it.The program received sufficient support in Congress that it was included in budget legislation signed this week by President Donald Trump.Environmentalists and advocates called it good news for consumers and the planet, but raised concerns over how the program will be administered under a shrunken Environmental Protection Agency.But Energy Star is not the only energy efficiency program targeted by Trump.Here\'s what to know about the outlook for that program and others.What\'s Trump got against energy efficiency?Trump has regularly said efficiency standards for household items and appliances — many strengthened under predecessor Joe Biden\'s administration — rob consumers of choice and add unnecessary costs.His first executive order upon returning to office last year outlined a vision to "unleash American energy." In it, he emphasized safeguarding "the American people\'s freedom to choose" everything from light bulbs to gas stoves to water heaters and shower heads.At the same time Trump has targeted efficiency, he\'s also sought to block renewable energy development such as wind and solar and boosted fossil fuels that contribute to warming, including gas, oil and coal.What happened with Energy Star?Energy Star is a voluntary, decades-old EPA-run program that informs consumers about how efficient home appliances and electronics are, including dishwashers, washing machines and more. The idea is to simultaneously reduce emissions and save consumers money on their energy bills.The Department of Energy develops product testing procedures for Energy Star, while the EPA sets performance levels and ensures the certification label is reliable for consumers. It also applies to new homes, commercial buildings and plants.EPA says the program has saved 4 billion metric tonnes (4.41 billion tons) of planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions since launching in 1992, and can save households an average of $450 annually.Last May, EPA drafted plans to eliminate Energy Star as part of a broader agency reorganization that targeted air pollution regulation efforts and other critical environmental functions. The agency said the reorganization would deliver "organizational improvements to the personnel structure" to benefit the American people.Many groups advocated against the potential closure of the program, citing its benefits to consumers.The legislation Trump signed this week allocated $33 million for the program, slightly more than 2024\'s $32.1 million, according to the Congressional Research Service, but it continues the general trend of declining funding for the program over the past decade. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, among many industry groups to advocate for keeping the program in letters sent to Congress, said it was "very pleased" to see the funding continue.Some concerns remainExperts say uncertainty around the program likely didn\'t impact consumers much over the past year. They note that manufacturers can\'t change their product lines overnight.Amanda Smith, a senior scientist at climate research organization Project Drawdown, said the uncertainty may have had a bigger effect on EPA\'s ability to administer the program. She was among experts wondering how staffing cuts may affect EPA\'s work.EPA spokesperson Brigit Hirsch didn\'t address a question about that, saying in a statement only that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin "will follow the law as enacted by Congress."What other energy efficiency rules are still in limbo?The Department of Energy has proposed rolling back, weakening or revoking 17 other minimum efficiency standards for energy and water conservation as part of 47 broader deregulatory actions. Those are standards that must be met for the products to be sold legally.That includes air cleaners, ovens, dehumidifiers, portable air conditioners, washers, dishwashers, faucets and many more items that have been in place and updated over the years."These are standards that are quietly saving people money on their utility bills year after year in a way that most consumers never notice," said Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project. "The striking thing is that consumers have a huge array of choices in appliances in the market today. Repealing these standards would simply increase cost. It just doesn\'t make sense."Changing efficiency measures also drives up energy demand at a time when utilities are already challenged to meet the growing needs of data centers, electrification and more.While Congress has supported Energy Star and these separate appliance standards, it also has advanced legislation that would give the president new powers to roll back rules.Manufacturers are likely to continue making efficient consumer appliances, but weakened rules could negatively impact the U.S. marketplace."The problem for U.S. manufacturers is that overseas competitors making inefficient products elsewhere could now flood the U.S. market," deLaski said, noting that would undercut American manufacturers. (AP)
2026-02-08 02:34:00

PH, US ink critical minerals agreement
THE Philippines and the United States have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop the domestic critical minerals and rare earths sector, a development the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said could make the county a global processing hub.The MOU was signed by Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla and US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg on Wednesday at the sidelines of the 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial hosted by the US State Department, which brought together ministers and senior officials from 54 countries and the European Commission.Critical minerals and rare earths are important inputs in the production of electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, electronics and advanced manufacturing, and the US has been looking to form a trading bloc to counter China’s dominance of the sector.“[T]he MOU aims to advance Philippine economic policy away from the export of raw mineral ores toward increased domestic processing and value addition, supporting the country’s integration into global supply chains,” the DENR said in a statement on Friday.Lotilla was quoted as saying that via the partnership, “we are building a Filipino-led industry that processes our own resources, creates high-skilled jobs and strengthens our position in the global high-tech supply chain.”“We will be able to keep more of the economic benefits of mining within the country,” he added.With the signing of the MOU, the Philippines joined other countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Asean neighbors Malaysia and Thailand as partners of the US in securing reliable and diversified mineral supply chains.“By advancing critical minerals processing at home, the Philippines takes a significant step toward building a resilient, innovation-driven economy and securing its place in the future of global industry,” Lotilla said.“More importantly, this step forms part of our overall commitment to responsible mining by upholding environmental standards and protecting the well-being of local communities,” he added.During the ministerial meeting, US Vice President JD Vance unveiled plans to marshal allies into a preferential trade bloc for critical minerals, proposing coordinated price floors as Washington escalates efforts to loosen China’s grip on materials crucial to advanced manufacturing.China has wielded its chokehold on the processing of many minerals as geo-economic leverage, at times curbing exports, suppressing prices and undercutting other countries’ ability to diversify sources of the materials used to make semiconductors, electric vehicles and advanced weapons.“We want to eliminate that problem of people flooding into our markets with cheap critical minerals to undercut our domestic manufacturers,” Vance told a gathering of visiting ministers in Washington without mentioning China.“We will establish reference prices for critical minerals at each stage of production ... and for members of the preferential zone, these reference prices will operate as a floor maintained through adjustable tariffs to uphold pricing integrity,” Vance said.Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump launched a US strategic stockpile of critical minerals, called Project Vault, backed by $10 billion in seed funding from the US Export-Import Bank and $2 billion in private funding.China’s expanded export controls on rare earths last year caused production delays and shutdowns for auto manufacturers in Europe and the US, and a China-generated glut of lithium has stalled plans to expand production in the US.Such dependencies have unnerved Washington and its partners, which have struggled for years to implement policies to stand up durable domestic mining and processing alternatives for lithium, nickel, rare earths and other critical minerals.
2026-02-06 16:20:00

Manufacturing output rebounds in December
FACTORY output turned positive in December in both value and volume terms, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.The value of production index (VaPI) rose by 1.9 percent, rebounding from a 1.0-percent contraction in November and up from 0.3 percent growth a year ago.The volume of production index (VoPI) also bounced back from a 1.1-percent drop a month earlier to growth of 1.0 percent. IT was also better than the year-earlier growth of 0.5 percent.Year to date, VaPI remained positive at 0.4 percent, a turnabout from the 0.02-percent dip seen in 2024 but markedly slower than 2023’s 6.3 percent.VoPI, on the other hand, fell by 0.02 percent for the whole of 2025, reversing from the prior year’s 0.7 percent and the 4.9 percent in 2023.December’s VaPI gain was attributed to a faster increase in the manufacture of other nonmetallic mineral products, which grew by 29.5 percent from just 4.4 percent in the previous month.This sector contributed 23.2 percent to the month’s growth, the PSA said.Other major contributors to the VaPI increase were the manufacture of transport equipment (6.7 percent from 0.2 percent) and the manufacture of machinery and equipment except electrical (9.7 percent from -11.1 percent).Twelve other industry divisions saw expansions while declines were observed in seven.The VoPI, meanwhile, was also primarily driven by the manufacture of other nonmetallic mineral products (31.4 percent from 6.0 percent) along with the manufacture of food products (10.4 percent from 7.6 percent) and the manufacture of machinery and equipment except electrical (10.1 percent from -10.7 percent).Of the remaining industry divisions, 12 gained while seven posted declines.Average capacity utilization was 77.5 percent, slightly higher than November’s 77.4 percent and 76.1 percent a year ago.Of the 651 establishments that participated in the PSA’s Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries, 228 — 35.0 percent — reported operating at full capacity (90-100 percent).Two hundred seventy-three, or 42.0 percent, operated at 70- to 89-percent capacity while the rest — 150 — operated below 70 percent.The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) on Friday welcomed the rebound in manufacturing output, which President Perry Ferrer said “highlights the resilience of Philippine industries.”The business group also recognized the support provided by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas via lower borrowing costs in December.“This move made it easier for manufacturers to access financing, expand production, and operate in a more favorable environment for manufacturing activity,” Ferrer said.The PCCI said it was optimistic about the sector this year as “continued government infrastructure projects, strong domestic consumption, and supportive monetary policy are expected to help sustain growth.”However, it said that “challenges such as rising global prices, supply chain constraints, and energy costs will need to be addressed.”
2026-02-06 16:19:00

ADB, GCash lending arm partner to fund MSMEs
THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) has extended a P1.75-billion loan facility to the lending arm of GCash, Fuse Financing Inc., to provide wider credit access to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly women-led businesses and those operating in high-poverty areas.The partnership, sealed on Friday, was said to be the base of ADB’s first fintech-focused financing deal of its kind in the Asean region.The ADB financing will allow Fuse Financing to expand its lending portfolio and scale up digital credit access for underserved segments.The loan facility will be complemented by catalytic funding from the Mastercard Impact Fund, supported by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, to help ensure that financing reaches priority MSMEs and women entrepreneurs more effectively.MSMEs accounted for about 40 percent of gross domestic product and roughly 63 percent of total employment. Data from the Department of Trade and Industry show that out of 1.24 million registered business establishments in 2024, more than 99 percent were classified as micro, small or medium enterprises.Despite their economic importance, the ADB said that access to credit remained one of the biggest challenges faced by small businesses, second only to access to markets.ADB Director General Isabel Chatterton said the partnership would blend development financing with digital innovation to build a more inclusive financial ecosystem.“By combining Fuse’s digital reach with ADB’s development financing, we are building an inclusive digital financial ecosystem that expands access to finance for women-led and rural enterprises across the country,” she said.Beyond the loan facility, ADB will also provide up to $125,000 in technical assistance to support the development of tailored financial products, and to deliver financial and digital literacy training for women, particularly those with limited formal education.This aims to help borrowers better manage their finances, use digital tools and borrow responsibly, reinforcing the sustainability of the lending program.Fuse Financing President and CEO Tony Isidro said the funding would accelerate the company’s mission to deliver fair and accessible loans to Filipinos who need them most.“This investment enables us to accelerate our support for women entrepreneurs and small businesses in underserved areas, sectors with immense potential to drive the country’s long-term growth,” he added.Mastercard Center Senior Vice President Subhashini Chandran, meanwhile, said extending credit to underserved entrepreneurs would help ensure that the benefits of digitalization were more widely shared.
2026-02-06 16:18:00

PPC.co Publishes New SEM Case Study Showing 790% ROAS and 82% Reduction in CPA for Nutrition & Health Brand
A newly released PPC.co case study details how strategic SEM optimization reduced acquisition costs by 82% and increased return on ad spend to 790% for a nutrition and health ecommerce brand.Seattle, Washington, United States, February 6, 2026 -- PPC.co, a leading paid search and performance marketing agency, today announced the publication of a new SEM case study detailing significant performance gains achieved for a nutrition and health product company through targeted campaign optimization and data-driven bidding strategies.The newly released report documents a dramatic month-over-month improvement in campaign performance, including:Cost per acquisition (CPA) reduced from £48.39 to £8.92, an 82% decreaseReturn on ad spend (ROAS) increased from 122% to 790%, a 668% improvementConversion rate increased from 1.36% to 8.77%, representing a 6.5× increaseThese results were achieved through systematic keyword refinement, audience segmentation, bid optimization, and strategic scaling of high-intent search traffic. According to the report, January performance reflected a meaningful transition from campaign learning phases into efficient, scalable acquisition, with every £1 spent returning approximately £7.90 in revenue. Campaign Optimization Drove Consistent Gains Across ChannelsThe case study also details improvements across multiple campaign types, including remarketing and Performance Max campaigns, all of which experienced meaningful ROAS increases month over month. Several campaigns saw triple-digit or higher percentage increases in profitability as targeting, bidding, and geographic refinements were applied. The report highlights that high-intent, brand-adjacent search queries were a major driver of efficiency, enabling scalable conversion growth at significantly reduced acquisition costs. Executive Commentary“Many PPC campaigns plateau because optimization stops at surface-level adjustments,” said Samuel Edwards, Chief Marketing Officer of PPC.co. “This case study demonstrates what happens when campaigns are managed at the query, audience, and bid-strategy level simultaneously. The compounding effect can be dramatic when execution is disciplined.”Timothy Carter, Chief Revenue Officer of PPC.co, added: “Businesses often assume performance marketing improvements happen gradually. In reality, when the underlying data is analyzed correctly and campaigns are structured for intent rather than just traffic, results can accelerate quickly. This case study is a clear example of that shift.”Why Case Studies Matter for Performance Marketing BuyersPPC.co publishes detailed case studies to provide transparency into how paid media campaigns are optimized and how results are measured. The company notes that marketers and operators increasingly demand verifiable performance data rather than generic claims of ROI.The full case study includes detailed breakdowns of:Campaign-level performanceKeyword performance and intent analysisGeographic and device segmentationAudience demographic insightsDay-of-week performance trendsThese insights provide a practical framework for businesses seeking to improve paid search profitability at scale. About PPC.coPPC.co is a performance-driven paid search marketing agency specializing in Google Ads, paid social, remarketing, and conversion optimization. The firm works with startups, ecommerce companies, and enterprise organizations to improve acquisition efficiency, increase conversion rates, and scale profitable growth through data-driven campaign management.PPC.co is part of the Digital.Marketing family of companies, which provides integrated digital marketing, SEO, and development services to businesses worldwide.Contact Info:Name: Samuel EdwardsEmail: Send EmailOrganization: PR DigitalWebsite: https://pr.digitalRelease ID: 89182859Should you detect any errors, issues, or discrepancies with the content contained within this press release, or if you need assistance with a press release takedown, we kindly request that you inform us immediately by contacting error@releasecontact.com (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team will be available to promptly respond and take necessary steps within the next 8 hours to resolve any identified issues or guide you through the removal process. We value the trust placed in us by our readers and remain dedicated to providing accurate and reliable information.
2026-02-06 16:17:04

Nicolas Torre and his bicycle
NICOLAS Torre III was appointed general manager of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in the latter half of December 2025. From the day he took office, Torre has been concerned about the worsening travel experience of Metro Manilans. Some of his proposals have been shot down, but I admire his tenacity and his willingness to break away from conventional but ineffective car-centric approaches.Torre gets it — the need for efficient, safe and sustainable travel options that do not require a private car or motorcycle. His positive messages about bicycles and improving our cycling environment are on point. I would argue that Torre has already done more to raise public understanding of the viability of bicycles as daily transport than any other Filipino public official. In his capacity as spokesman for the MMDA, his pro-cycling advocacy is a welcome and refreshing change.Torre knows cycling from personal experience. In 2011, he regularly biked 27 kilometers (km) each way daily from Sto. Domingo in Quezon City to Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan. In those days, he experienced more predictable and shorter travel times on a bicycle, compared with using a car. He also appreciated, I’m sure, the cost savings and health benefits. He also must have observed the many thousands of Filipinos moving around quietly and efficiently by bicycle, without generating heat or harmful emissions. He understands the risks they face as vulnerable road users.The potential benefits from more people on bicycles are huge. In 2021, the policy advocacy organization, AltMobility PH, released a report quantifying the social and economic benefits from cycling (Bikenomics: Assessing the Value of Cycling in the Philippines by Zaxx Abraham, Sarah Arrojado, Cola Cobarrubias, Ira Cruz, Patrick Jalasco, Chinee Leobrera, Keisha Mayuga and Regina Mora. Friedrich Naumann Foundation and AltMobility PH, 2021).This is what they found: Using a bicycle instead of a car can save a household about P281,462 per year; this leaves a family with more money for food, health care, education and savings. If only 5 percent of trips within Metro Manila are made on bicycles, society gains P738 billion in health cost savings annually.When it comes to fighting climate change, bicycles are also one of the best weapons available. In terms of reducing carbon in our atmosphere, attracting more people to cycle instead of using a motor vehicle is like planting trees. Converting 5 percent of car trips in Metro Manila into bicycle trips can save 57,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to planting 2.31 million trees.Torre knows that bike lanes and road-sharing are not a popular topic in certain circles. Many local officials (and many car and motorcycle users) hold the view that bike lanes are often empty, create traffic and should be removed (or converted into motorcycle lanes). Because there has been visible opposition to bicycle lanes (including from within MMDA), Torre deserves our commendation for his willingness to challenge such misplaced views and to push for road sharing, the safety of vulnerable road users and the greater good.Torre is passionate about his advocacy for cycling. On Jan. 29, 2026, he rode his bicycle to inspect bike lanes on his route to the office at MMDA. In the media interview that followed his bike lane audit, he delivered several important messages: that roads should provide space for all road users and that journeys of 15-20 km are very much feasible on a bicycle, requiring less than an hour of travel.On Feb. 1, 2026, Torre joined a bike ride of the Tiklop Society of the Philippines (an organization of users of folding bikes) to campaign for protected bike lanes and more road space for vulnerable road users. In response to media questions, Torre cited the need to reduce car-dependency by making cycling a safe and attractive travel mode. He mentioned the many economic and health gains for the individual as well as the benefits to society of having less road congestion and pollution. He recommended that bike lanes be established on many more major roads in Metro Manila (in addition to EDSA), noting that Metro Manila with its compact area was easily bikeable, distance-wise.On Feb. 3, 2026, Torre engaged the public on his Facebook page, inviting suggestions for making cycling to work more attractive. He started with his own suggestion: lockers and showers at work places so that cyclists can freshen up after a bike ride. His online invitation for suggestions has since attracted a huge number of responses, with protected bike lanes garnering a very high number of mentions.If Torre can get the MMDA to support his cycling advocacy, it may be the first time that all three major transportation-related agencies in the metropolis — the Department of Transportation, Department of Public Works and Highways, and the MMDA — agree that protected bike lanes deserve a larger and fairer share of existing road space. We could be on our way to creating a metropolis-wide network of high-quality protected bike lanes and achieving Torre’s dream of a bicycle-friendly Metro Manila. That would be welcome news indeed.Robert Y. Siy is a development economist, city and regional planner, and public transport advocate. He is a co-convenor of the Move As One Coalition. He can be reached at mobilitymatters.ph@yahoo.com or followed on X @RobertRsiy.
2026-02-06 16:16:00

CGTN: Vision 2030: China's tech blueprint reshaping global innovation
BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 February 2026 - In 2025, China achieved unprecedented milestones in technological innovation, from breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to advances in deep-space exploration. CGTN presents a feature article examining how these advances reflect not only industrial growth but also China's evolving role in global innovation governance, highlighting the country's commitment to shape international standards, foster collaboration, and address shared challenges like climate change and public health.The World Intellectual Property Organization's Global Innovation Index 2025 places China 10th globally for the first time, first among upper‐middle‐income economies and fifth in innovation output.China leads the world in multiple intellectual property measures, hosts the most top‐100 innovation clusters - including the Shenzhen‐Hong Kong‐Guangzhou cluster now ranked first - and has the world's second‐largest brand value at $1.81 trillion. Building on this momentum, China is advancing industrial leadership under its 15th Five‐Year Plan period (2026-2030).Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) companies have developed more than 200 domestic large models and expanded AI deployment across industries. China's "AI+" initiative integrates digital technologies with manufacturing and smart systems, and in 2025 China's core AI industry exceeded 1 trillion yuan (about $142 billion) in scale, underscoring rapid expansion.Alongside AI developments, China is also expanding its commercial space capabilities: Long March series rockets have launched clusters of satellites from south China's Hainan Province, and the country has applied for frequency and orbital rights for 203,000 satellites to the International Telecommunication Union, planning a mega‐constellation by 2030 that could support a 1.2 trillion yuan industrial chain.Complementing these industry advances, in 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Artificial Intelligence Governance Initiative, which outlines China's constructive approach to global AI development and governance and has since informed subsequent international cooperation discussions and frameworks. In July 2025, China released the Global AI Governance Action Plan, a concrete follow‐up to the 2023 initiative that provides guidance for multilateral cooperation on secure, inclusive and human‐centered AI governance among participating countries and organizations.China Media Group also outlined the top 10 AI trends for 2026, including globalization of AI governance, scaling computing power, widespread AI agents and multi‐modal interaction technologies.Supporting these innovations, China strengthens R&D and institutional investment. In 2025, central state‐owned enterprises invested 1.1 trillion yuan in research and development for the fourth consecutive year and 2.5 trillion yuan in strategic emerging industries, while tax and fee reforms totaling about 10.5 trillion yuan during the 14th Five‐Year Plan period (2021-2025) boosted enterprise innovation.Major fundamental science missions, such as Tianwen‐2 asteroid sampling and the Chang'e‐7 lunar water exploration mission, demonstrate growing long‐term research capabilities.Looking ahead, China's next five years of scientific and technological innovation will not be an isolated process. From satellite constellations to AI chips, each breakthrough contributes to addressing global challenges like climate change and disease control.An innovative China, moving with openness and efficiency, is becoming a key engine for shared global progress.For more information, please click:https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-02-04/Vision-2030-China-s-tech-blueprint-reshaping-global-innovation-1KujBKYBQHK/p.htmlHashtag: #CGTNThe issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
2026-02-05 06:29:12

‘Triggerman’ Allan Caidic returns to UE as consultant
One of the pillars of University of the East basketball during its glory days in the 1980s, Allan Caidic returns to his roots as he was named consultant for the men\'s team, the school announced recently.The 62-year-old Caidic, a three-time UAAP champion with UE, was tapped to help the Red Warriors’ campaign during the offseason and heading into UAAP Season 89.A contract signing was held last Tuesday, Feb. 3, with school\'s top officials also gracing the event led by UE president and chief academic officer Dr. Zosimo M. Battad, SVP Florence O. Siy, PE director Leo Robert Viajar, assistant PE dir. Lovelyn Yee, sports coordinator Melvin Reyes and legal counsel Atty. Sarah Jane C. Macahilas.“I’m so grateful for the opportunity given by the UE management for making me a part of the UE basketball program,” said Caidic in his interview with the school\'s student publication, UE Dawn.“As a former player, I want to give UE the respect they deserve, so many years na nagdaan... parang nawala na ‘yong glory days before... it’s more of the respect first and syempre we have to do a lot of adjustments.”Caidic, who holds the PBA record for most points by a local (79) and most three-points in a single game (17), will work with head coach Chris Gavina, and assistant coaches Paulo Hubalde and KG Canaleta.They will spearhead UE’s rebuilding phase with Wello Lingolingo leading the way after they finished dead last and without a victory in Season 88.
2026-02-05 06:29:00

Balancing Excellence: An NLCS (Singapore) Student Representing Singapore on the International Cricket Stage
SINGAPORE, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Grade 11 student Aahan Vuthandam represents Singapore in international cricket while maintaining academic excellence at NLCS (Singapore), reflecting the school's ethos of academic rigour, pastoral care, and enrichment. ACC Men’s U19 Premier Cup 2025 | Singapore versus Iran: Aahan Vuthandam received 'Player of the Match' for his extraordinary knock of 188 off 121 balls and 2 wickets with the ball. [Photo used with permission from Singapore Cricket Association] When most Grade 11 students are focused solely on IB Diploma preparations, Aahan Vuthandam is balancing academics with representing Singapore on the international cricket stage and excelling at both. The talented all-rounder has made headlines in Singapore cricket, including a remarkable 188-run knock that earned him Player of the Match honours and recognition as the leading run scorer in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Under-19 qualifiers, as well as Player of the Series at the UAE Under-19 tournament, competing against teams from 14 countries. The Challenge of Balancing Passion and Academics For student-athletes like Aahan, the demands are significant. Grade 11 marks a crucial year in the IB Diploma Programme, with rigorous coursework, extended essays, and preparation for final examinations. Add international cricket tournaments, training sessions, and travel commitments, and the challenge becomes formidable. "We knew NLCS had a reputation for academic rigour, which might seem counterintuitive (as a choice for school) when your child dedicates significant time to sport," Aahan's father reflected. "But we believed a more demanding environment would encourage him to develop stronger time management skills and take ownership of his choices." Aahan has been playing cricket since the age of five, and over the years, the sport has built not just his skills on the field, but his resilience, discipline, and sense of responsibility off it. Since joining NLCS (Singapore), he has found an environment that nurtures both his passion and his academic journey. "When you're passionate about something, there's a natural sense of responsibility that comes with it," his father observed. "The encouragement from his teachers and the support from his teammates have motivated him to put in the extra hours needed to keep up with both commitments." How NLCS (Singapore) Supports Student-Athletes NLCS (Singapore)'s approach to supporting student-athletes goes beyond flexible scheduling, reflecting the school's commitment to a holistic education. Tutors' Commitment to Support: Teachers and class mentors actively monitor student-athletes' academic progress and maintain open dialogue with families to understand the structured nature of athletic commitments. When Aahan recently missed around 10 days for an under-19 tournament in Dubai, his teachers offered reassurance. "Before he left, a couple of teachers told him, 'Don't worry, we've got you.' That gave us tremendous confidence," his father shared. Upon his return, he was supported in prioritising key areas of learning, particularly in demanding subjects such as Computer Science HL. This partnership ensures student-athletes receive the guidance and encouragement they need to develop effective time management strategies and balance their dual pursuits. Holistic Development: The school recognizes that elite-level sports cultivate essential life skills, discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure, that complement academic learning. "Through cricket, he has navigated success and setbacks, learned about leadership and collaboration. These are lessons that extend far beyond the classroom," Aahan's father noted. A Community That Inspires Aahan's journey has been shaped not just by his own dedication, but by the community around him. Within Singapore's cricket circles, he has watched older players progress to prestigious universities like Imperial College London, University College London, and the University of Melbourne. Their achievements have served as both inspiration and proof that excelling in sport doesn't mean sacrificing academic aspirations. International Recognition Aahan's recent achievements on the cricket field demonstrate the calibre of talent at NLCS (Singapore). His performances for Singapore's youth teams have drawn attention from cricket circles across Asia, with the Singapore Cricket Association celebrating his contributions to national squads. A Model for Aspiring Student-Athletes Aahan's journey offers encouragement to students passionate about pursuing sports alongside academic excellence. At NLCS (Singapore), the philosophy is clear: the school provides floors, not ceilings. Students are supported to excel academically while being encouraged to pursue their passions without limits. The key lies in finding the right support system. For Aahan, success has come from the combination of parental guidance, dedicated teachers, and inspiring peers. "We've learned that when children have something they're truly passionate about, it becomes a source of energy and motivation that positively impacts every other area of their life," his father reflected. Aahan himself reflected that, "Cricket's challenges have taught me to stay grounded and composed. Sport is a powerful leveller that positively influences other areas of life, including studies and friendships." The school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals means recognising that excellence takes many forms, whether it's achieving top grades, representing your country in sport, excelling in the arts, or contributing to the community. With the right environment and support, students can pursue their passions while building the skills and resilience that will serve them throughout their lives. About North London Collegiate School (Singapore) Founded in August 2020, North London Collegiate School (Singapore) is a British International School offering the academically ambitious NLCS curriculum, followed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme and culminating in the IB Diploma Programme. Drawing on 175 years of educational heritage from its founding school in the UK, NLCS (Singapore) nurtures individuals to be intellectually curious, socially confident, and grounded in compassion through a rigorous academic framework, rich co-curricular opportunities, and exceptional pastoral care. Situated on Depot Road, the School is part of a global family of schools committed to educational excellence and developing global citizens. To learn more about NLCS (Singapore), please visit our website (https://nlcssingapore.sg/) and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. For media enquiries, please contact the NLCS (Singapore) Marketing TeamEmail: marketing@nlcssingapore.sg
2026-02-05 06:28:00

4 provinces in Visayas under Signal No. 2 as ‘Basyang’ accelerates
MANILA, Philippines—At least four provinces in Visayas - Siquijor, the southeastern portion of Negros Oriental, the southern portion of Cebu, and the southern portion of Bohol – were placed under Signal No. 2 as Tropical Storm Basyang further accelerated while moving closer to Eastern Mindanao, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said on Thursday.Also under the same storm signal are some areas in Mindanao – Surigao del Norte including Siargao, Bucas Grande Islands, Surigao del Sur, the extreme northern portion of Davao Oriental, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental, the northern portion of Bukidnon, the northeastern portion of Lanao del Norte, the northeastern portion of Misamis Occidental and Camiguin.In its 11 a.m. bulletin, Pagasa said Cagayancillo and Cuyo Islands in Luzon and the southern portion of Eastern Samar, the southern portion of Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, the rest of Bohol, the rest of Cebu, the rest of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Antique in the Visayas were under Signal No. 1.Also under the same wind signal were areas in Mindanao - Dinagat Islands, the northern and central portions of Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, the northern portion of Davao del Sur, the rest of Bukidnon, the northern portion of Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, the northern portion of Maguindanao del Norte, the rest of Lanao del Norte, the rest of Misamis Occidental, the eastern and central portions of Zamboanga del Norte, the northern and central portions of Zamboanga del Sur, and the northern portion of Zamboanga Sibugay.Packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (kph) with gustiness of up to 80 kph, “Basyang” was estimated to be 295 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur moving westward at 25kph.Pagasa administrator Nathaniel Servando told The Manila Times that the tropical storm will make its initial landfall over Surigao del Sur tonight.“After crossing Mindanao, it is likely to emerge over Bohol Sea tomorrow morning, and may pass close or make another landfall over Siquijor and the southern portion of Negros Oriental by Friday afternoon,” Servando said.It will then slightly weaken as it interacts with the landmass.
2026-02-05 06:27:47

LTO to issue Show Cause Order to BOSS Ironman Challenge organizers
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced it will issue a Show Cause Order (SCO) to the BMW Owners’ Society of Safe Riders (BOSS), organizer of the BOSS Ironman Challenge Mindanao Cup 2026 flagging off from General Santos City with a route around Mindanao on January 31 to February 1, 2026. The action follows widespread circulation of disturbing footage and accounts of accidents on social media platforms, which caught the immediate attention of the LTO Chief and enforcement teams.Viral videos**media[76558]**The agency has reviewed viral videos and images shared widely across social media platforms and noted specific traffic violations committed by the event’s participants during the event, in violation of Republic Act No. 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code). These include over speeding, use of unauthorized vehicle accessories and modifications, illegal blinkers, failure to stop at red lights and disregard for road signs, including mandatory stop signs and lane markers.LTO says these alleged violations contributed to serious incidents during the challenge. Multiple collisions were reported, involving both event participants and civilian vehicles. Most tragically, one of these collisions resulted in the death of a seven-year-old child. A separate fatal collision involving another event participant occurred in Kibawe, Bukidnon on February 1, 2026, and is currently under investigation by local authorities.Following initial assessment of the social media content, LTO’s Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) launched preliminary investigations to verify the allegations and gather additional evidence. Once concluded, the Show Cause Order will be formally issued to the organizers.“The heartbreaking footage we saw circulating online is a stark reminder that road safety is non-negotiable – every life on our roads matters, especially the most vulnerable among us like children,” said LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao “Private motor vehicle events must never come at the cost of innocent lives. Under Republic Act No. 4136, organizers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure compliance with traffic laws and prioritize safety for all. We will hold accountable those responsible, and this case sends a clear message: compliance is mandatory, and safety must be at the core of all event planning and execution.”Statement from the organizers**media[76555]**In response, the BMW Owners’ Society of Safe Riders (BOSS), the organizers of the event have released a statement."We share the sentiments of the public we do not want accidents to happen [sic]. Safety has always been our highest priority. Thorough preparations were made in close coordination with Local Government Units, the Philippine National Police, the Land Transportation Office, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and other government agencies to ensure the safety of riders and spectators and the orderly conduct of the event.BOSS shared that the event underwent changes to its format for the 2026 staging."To reduce risk and rider fatigue, the event was conducted over two days with a mandatory overnight rest-stop, unlike earlier formats requiring completion within24 hours. Group riding of five to ten riders was made mandatory to prevent racing and promote discipline, teamwork, and camaraderie..."The organizers also shared that participants were tracked by GPS, provided insurance coverage, as well as briefed prior to the event on the importance of complying with all national and local road safety regulations."Despite these measures, we acknowledge with humility that risks can never be completely eliminated in events involving motorcycles and travelling over a substantial distance. In this regard, we commit to a comprehensive review of our protocols to further enhance safety and cooperate with the appropriate government agency in this regard.Event’s history**media[76557]**The BMW Owners’ Society of Safe Riders (BOSS) Ironman Motorcycle Challenge is a motorcycle and automobile endurance event. Participants are challenged to drive a route spanning of at least 1,200 kilometers in under 24 hours to be named a “Finisher.” It can be done in any brand of motorcycle (400cc and up) or car. Riders are given a number sticker on their motorcycle or car and a card that must be stamped or punched at checkpoints to ensure they are following the prescribed route. All the while, the route is open to vehicular traffic because participants are advised to follow road rules.It traces its origins back to the American Ironbutt challenge where American riders were tasked with completing a 1,000 mile route within a similar time period.Since its inception over 2 decades ago, the organizers have continued to stress that this is not a race, rather, an endurance event. However, the inevitable bragging rights over completing it in the least amount of time has endured over the years, regarded by some participants as unofficial “records” and seen by some as a challenge and time to be beaten. The event doesn’t announce winners, just finishers, however some motorcycle clubs and participants that join actively keep track of the finishing time of their members and hail those with the shortest time as heroes.Reckless riding aside, completing the event is still a noteworthy achievement for any rider. Traveling 1,200-km in one go is not a joke, even when following the speed limit. Varying road conditions, weather conditions, and fatigue are the key challenges to overcome. Not surprisingly, many keep the participation sticker on their motorcycle and the patch that’s awarded after on their jacket as a source of pride.
2026-02-03 20:27:00

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet and Distinguished Professor Robin Landa Explore Values-Based Leadership in New Book
Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving SuccessKean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., and Distinguished Professor Robin Landa, co-authors of Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving Success.UNION, N.J., Feb. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., has released Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving Success, a new book he co-authored with Kean University Distinguished Professor Robin Landa. The book offers a values-driven framework for leaders navigating today’s complex professional and civic landscapes. Blending scholarship, lived experience and practical insight, Leadership by Design presents a three-part framework to leadership centered on winning hearts, building a personal brand and achieving success. The authors emphasize that effective leadership requires forging genuine trust and emotional connection, shaping how leadership is perceived through intentional choices and delivering results measured by meaning, values and legacy. "Leadership by Design reflects a belief I’ve carried throughout my career. Leadership is about more than strategy; it’s about purpose and creating a legacy that empowers others,” Repollet said. "This book represents an opportunity to share that perspective and challenge readers to be intentional architects of the future, designing leadership that is built to last.” WATCH: Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving SuccessPublished by Routledge, the 192-page book is written for educators and emerging leaders seeking a practical approach to aligning values with action, and educational leaders are already turning to the book as a resource. A central theme of the book is Repollet’s "crystal ball effect,” a leadership concept that emphasizes making credible, intentional, values-based commitments that inspire trust and shared belief. When leaders articulate plausible and principled goals, individuals and organizations are more likely to work collectively toward long-term success. "As a superintendent, I am always looking for ways to take my district from good to great. Leadership by Design is more than just a guide; it’s a transformative blueprint for educational leaders,” said Charles R. Ford Jr., Ed.D., superintendent of the Monmouth County Vocational School District. "This powerful resource equips educators to lead with authenticity, build a strong and purposeful brand, and ultimately drive meaningful success for students and communities alike.” The collaboration between Repollet and Landa began several years ago at a Kean Human Rights Conference and grew through continued conversations around ethics, leadership and design thinking. Landa, who has authored 27 books, said the partnership was rooted in shared values and a commitment to purposeful leadership. "Dr. Repollet is a rare leader who is ethical, visionary and deeply humanistic,” Landa said. "I knew immediately this project would be different and high level.” For Repollet, the collaboration reflects the leadership philosophy advanced in the book itself. "Collaborating with Robin was a meaningful experience,” Repollet said. "Her expertise helped shape the structure of this book, and together we created a leadership framework rooted in values and intention.” Leadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving Success debuted Tuesday, February 3, and is available through Amazon and major booksellers. Proceeds will benefit the Kean University Foundation "Anyone reading this book should walk away understanding they are the chief architect of the future,” Landa said. "Leadership doesn’t emerge by chance, it must be designed with vision and purpose.” ABOUT KEAN UNIVERSITY Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Designated an R2 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, Kean ranks among the top eight percent of U.S. universities for research and doctorate production. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, seven doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education. Learn more at www.kean.edu. AttachmentLeadership by Design: Winning Hearts, Building Your Brand, and Achieving SuccessCONTACT: Nicole FranciscoKean University(908) 737-0583nifranci@kean.edu
2026-02-03 20:26:32

Park City Communities Housing Authority Earns HUD High Performer Designation
Housing authority exceeds federal performance standards for Housing Choice Voucher program administrationSAN DIEGO, Feb. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nan McKay and Associates (NMA) and Park City Communities Housing Authority (PCC) announced today Park City Communities has been designated a High Performer under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section Eight Management Assessment Program, commonly known as SEMAP, following HUD’s most recent evaluation of the agency’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. PCC rating is 94%, scoring 133 of a possible 145 points for the fiscal year ending September 31, 2025.Public Housing Agencies receive a SEMAP High Performer rating when they achieve a score of at least 90 percent across 14 federally defined performance indicators. These indicators measure core aspects of voucher program administration, including rent reasonableness determinations, housing quality inspections, waiting list management, and timely use of federal funds. The designation reflects Park City Communities’ compliance with HUD requirements and its performance in administering federal rental assistance to Bridgeport residents who rely on the Housing Choice Voucher program to access stable housing in the private market."SEMAP is designed to assess whether housing authorities are administering the voucher program in a way that meets federal standards and serves residents effectively,” said Jillian Baldwin, CEO of Park City Communities. "This designation reflects the work of our staff to meet HUD requirements and maintain consistent program operations for families and property owners participating in the Housing Choice Voucher program.”HUD uses SEMAP scores to evaluate program management nationwide. Agencies that receive a High Performer rating may be eligible for national recognition from the Department and may receive a competitive advantage when applying for certain HUD funding opportunities."We are proud to see Park City Communities receive this SEMAP High Performer designation,” said John McKay, CEO of Nan McKay and Associates. "This recognition reflects the consistent, high-quality work being done by PCC staff, in partnership with our team, to administer the HCV program in a way that meets HUD standards and serves the Bridgeport community effectively.”Park City Communities administers approximately 3,200 Housing Choice Vouchers in Bridgeport, alongside nearly 2,500 public housing units. The Housing Choice Voucher program provides rental assistance that allows eligible households to lease housing in the private market while ensuring units meet HUD quality and affordability requirements.Nan McKay and Associates provides Housing Choice Voucher program administration services to Park City Communities. The firm supports day-to-day program operations, compliance functions, and reporting requirements in coordination with PCC staff and HUD oversight.SEMAP evaluations are conducted annually and are intended to ensure accountability, protect federal housing funds, and promote consistent program delivery across local housing authorities. For Bridgeport residents participating in the program, the designation indicates that the agency is meeting HUD’s operational benchmarks for managing rental assistance and working with landlords and families to maintain program stability.About Nan McKay and Associates(NMA)For four decades, Nan McKay & Associates has been the leader in providing innovative solutions for neighborhoods across the country. With offices in California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, and Kentucky, our San Diego-based, woman-owned company is recognized as one of the most effective, strategic, and compliance-focused organizations serving communities nationwide. The NMA team has real-life professional experience in the field and understands operational best practices and the complexities of state and federal regulations. We're committed to ensuring that housing authorities, property management companies, and municipalities have the resources they need to help the families they serve. www.nanmckay.comMedia ContactJaycob BytelParagon Communicationsjaycob@paragoncomms.com(916) 538-0781
2026-02-03 20:26:29

Overnight Offering Announced
TORONTO, Feb. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian Life Companies Split Corp. ("the Company”) is pleased to announce it will undertake an offering of Preferred Shares (TSX: LFE.PR.B) and Class A Shares (TSX: LFE) of the Company. The offering will be led by National Bank Financial Inc.The sales period of this overnight offering will end at 8:30 a.m. EST on February 4, 2026. The offering is expected to close on or about February 11, 2026 and is subject to certain closing conditions including approval by the TSX.The Preferred Shares will be offered at a price of $10.45 per Preferred Share and the Class A Shares will be offered at a price of $7.65 per Class A Share.The closing price on the TSX of each of the Preferred Shares and Class A Shares on February 2, 2026 was $10.53 and $7.83, respectively.Since inception of the Company, the aggregate dividends declared on the Preferred Shares have been $12.85 per share and the aggregate dividends declared on the Class A Shares have been $9.85 per share, for a combined total of $22.70 per unit. All distributions paid to date have been made in tax advantage eligible Canadian dividends or capital gains dividends.The net proceeds of the offering will be used by the Company to invest in an actively managed portfolio primarily consisting of four publicly traded Canadian life insurance companies as follows: Great‐West Lifeco Inc., iA Financial Corporation Inc., Manulife Financial Corporation and Sun Life Financial Inc.The Company’s investment objectives are:Preferred Shares:to provide holders of the Preferred Shares with fixed, cumulative preferential monthly cash dividends at a rate equal to the greater of: 7.00% OR Prime Rate plus 2% (max of 9%) annually based on the $10.00 original issue price, and;on or about December 1, 2030 (subject to further 6 year extensions), to pay the holders of the Preferred Shares the original $10 issue price of those shares.Class A Shares:to provide holders of the Class A Shares with regular monthly cash dividends as the directors of the Company may from time to time determine; andon or about December 1, 2030 (subject to further 6 year extensions), to pay the holders of Class A Shares such amounts as remain after paying the holders of the Preferred Shares the amounts owing to them.A prospectus supplement to the Company’s short form base shelf prospectus dated May 1, 2024, as amended October 2, 2025, containing important detailed information about the Preferred Shares and the Class A Shares being offered will be filed with securities commissions or similar authorities in all provinces of Canada. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the short form base shelf prospectus may be obtained from your registered financial advisor using the contact information for such advisor. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the securities being offered until the prospectus supplement has been filed with the Securities Commissions or similar authorities in each of the provinces of Canada.Investor Relations: 1-877-478-2372Local: 416-304-4443www.lifesplit.cominfo@quadravest.com
2026-02-03 20:26:19

The Bookish Goods Expands Its Collection of Book-Inspired Accessories and Gifts
Columbus-Based Bookish Shop Highlights Kindle Cases, Apparel, and Subscription Offerings for ReadersCOLUMBUS, Ohio , Feb. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Bookish Goods, an online bookish shop known for literary-inspired accessories and apparel, is expanding its curated selection of products designed for readers who enjoy expressing their love of books beyond the page. The brand continues to grow its offerings across Kindle Case(s), apparel, accessories, and giftable items that appeal to avid readers and literary enthusiasts.Among the most popular items offered by The Bookish Goods are its Kindle Case(s), including designs created specifically as a Kindle Paperwhite case. These Kindle cover(s) are designed to combine everyday functionality with book-themed artwork, allowing readers to personalize their reading experience while protecting their devices. The collection reflects the brand’s focus on practical items that align with book-centered lifestyles.In addition to digital reading accessories, The Bookish Goods offers a wide range of bookish gifts intended for personal use or gifting. The product lineup includes book blanket designs for cozy reading sessions, a book tote bag suitable for carrying novels or everyday essentials, and themed accessories that reflect literary humor and culture. These items have positioned the brand as a destination for thoughtfully designed bookish merch.Apparel also plays a central role in the company’s catalog. The Bookish Goods features a variety of bookish tee options as well as a bookish sweatshirt collection, allowing customers to showcase their love for reading through casual wear. The apparel line is complemented by seasonal releases and limited designs that resonate with readers of all genres.The company further supports its community through its subscription offering, which delivers curated bookish goods directly to subscribers. This program allows readers to discover new bookish merch regularly while supporting an independent bookish shop focused on literary creativity.The Bookish Goods operates with a clear mission to create products that resonate with readers who view books as part of their identity and daily life. By offering a range of accessories, apparel, and gifts, the brand continues to serve readers looking for meaningful and practical bookish goods.For more information about The Bookish Goods and its collections, visit https://thebookishgoods.com/CONTACT: Michael LeGrangeThe Bookish Goodshello@thebookishgoods.comhttps://thebookishgoods.com/
2026-02-03 20:26:12

Rep. Paolo Duterte: Probe photo of public official allegedly using illegal drugs
Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte has called for an independent and transparent forensic examination of a photo circulating online that allegedly shows a top public official using illegal drugs.In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Duterte said the issue of the public official raises serious concerns that should not be dismissed outright.Duterte acknowledged that many Filipinos are understandably alarmed by the image, stressing that public concerns should be addressed directly to prevent further speculation and erosion of trust.“If the photo is fake, it would be better to subject it to an independent, transparent forensic examination so speculation can stop,” Duterte said. “If it is real, the people have the right to hear the truth.”The lawmaker emphasized that no one should be judged solely based on an image, but noted that holders of public office – especially the President – are expected to meet a higher standard of accountability.Duterte warned that silence, avoidance, or downplaying the issue would only deepen public distrust. He said leadership requires transparency and the ability to maintain the people’s complete confidence.He pointed out repeated allegations of drug use that date back to before the 2022 elections, as well as the continued refusal to undergo a hair follicle drug test, saying these factors further contribute to declining public and investor confidence.Duterte also raised concerns about alleged corruption linked to trillions of pesos allocated to flood control projects, funds he said came from taxpayers and remain unaccounted for.He added that the public continues to await resolution of these issues. “If the law is strict on ordinary Filipinos, it should be even stricter on those in positions of power.”Duterte emphasized that accountability should apply equally to all. “The people are watching. In a democracy, asking questions is not an attack – it is an obligation of leadership to respond,” he said.
2026-02-02 10:30:00

Minglanilla mayor, vice mayor, councilors suspended one year
CEBU CITY – Days after he refused the disposal of garbage from Cebu City, the mayor of Minglanilla town, Cebu province was suspended for one year.A suspension order from the Office of the Ombudsman was served on Monday, Feb. 2, against Minglanilla Mayor Rajiv Enad, Vice Mayor Lani Peña, and members of the municipal council from the previous term.Their suspension stemmed from an administrative case involving the alleged non-issuance of a permit.The serving of the suspension went smooth as all the town officials received the written order in person at the municipal session hall.When asked if the suspension had any connection to his public refusal to allow the use of a landfill in Minglanilla for Cebu City’s garbage, Enad clarified that the administrative case is separate and distinct from the recent discussions on solid waste management.He explained that the case relates to municipal actions taken in response to safety concerns affecting residents of Sitio Napo in Barangay Guindarohan, where ground cracks were observed and assessed to pose potential landslide risks.“Public service is not about convenience or self-preservation,” Enad said. “It is about making difficult decisions guided by what is right. Even when the consequences are personal, my responsibility is to stand by what protects the people I serve and to face these challenges through the proper legal process.”The suspension stemmed from a complaint filed several years ago by private entities associated with the operator of the Minglanilla landfill. Local officials noted that multiple similar cases filed by the same group in the past had already been dismissed, with this case being the only remaining unresolved.Enad declined to discuss the merits of the case in detail, stating that the issues involved are now properly addressed through legal channels.He emphasized, however, that the municipal actions cited in the complaint were undertaken in the exercise of regulatory authority and with the primary objective of protecting public safety and the general welfare.Enad was suspended days after he attended an emergency meeting on Jan. 22 at the Capitol convened by Gov. Pam Baricuatro, where officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), including Secretary Raphael Lotilla, as well as representatives from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), DENR-7, and Cebu City officials discussed Cebu City’s solid waste situation.During the meeting, Minglanilla was identified as one of several areas being considered as a possible temporary option for waste disposal, a proposal the mayor publicly declined.Municipal officials also noted that, during the presentation, reference was made to the existence of a pending administrative case involving the mayor, although it was unrelated to the subject matter of the meeting. Enad did not comment further on this point.Enad reiterated that his refusal to host waste from outside the municipality was not intended to offend any party but was grounded on the municipality’s duty to protect its environment, water sources, and the welfare of its residents.He underscored that he will respect the legal process and exhaust all remedies available under the law to address the suspension, while ensuring that municipal services remain uninterrupted for the people of Minglanilla.While serving the suspension, Enad\'s wife, Councilor Lheslen will be acting mayor, with Councilor Mulot Laput stepping in as vice mayor."I respect the Office of the Ombudsman and the processes of our institutions," Enad stressed.
2026-02-02 10:21:00

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