KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Founder Group Limited ("Founder Group" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: FGL), a Malaysia-headquartered, pure-play end-to-end EPCC solutions provider for solar PV facilities announced that it has completed the acquisition of a 19.90% equity interest in Nichcom Go Sdn. Bhd. ("Nichcom Go"), the Malaysian Charge Point Operator (CPO) behind the SpacePlus EV charging brand. Nichcom Go primarily provides services in relation to electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities.

Malaysia's Electric Vehicle Charging Market: A Fast-Growing Opportunity

Malaysia's underlying EV market is expanding fast as battery EV sales rose 109% year-on-year to 30,850 units in 2025 alone, and that momentum is expected to transform directly into stronger demand for charging infrastructure. Independent research also estimates that Malaysia's EV charging market at US$143.4 million in 2024, growing to US$189.7 million in 2025 and projected to reach US$539.4 million by 2030, a 23.25% compound annual growth rate. This growth is further underpinned by government-linked investment from Tenaga Nasional Berhad, TNB committing RM35 billion (approximately US$8.2 billion) between 2025 and 2030 to upgrade the national grid in support of the energy transition.

Although Malaysia's electric vehicle (EV) charging market is growing rapidly, the supply continues to trail demand, creating an opportunity for SpacePlus as a Charge Point Operator (CPO) that develops and manages EV charging infrastructure. Crowdsourced charger-mapping platforms such as PlugShare, widely used by EV drivers have shown the quality and performance of each charging station including the high rating of SpacePlus Charging station who contributes not only charging but also the collaboration with nearby F&B outlet around the charging stations.

The Malaysia Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) reported a total of 6,416 electric vehicle chargers have been installed nationwide as of May 31, 2026, this total is comprised of 2,143 DC chargers and 4,273 AC chargers. The total is still short of the original 10,000 unit target set for 2025. Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) has since raised the bar further, targeting 30,000 public charging stations by 2030, roughly five times the total installed base today.

This significant gap is opening up even as EV sales and adoption accelerates. Official Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) registration data reported 14,591 EV registrations in Q1 2026. This is more than double the 6,827 units registered in Q1 2025 which represents an actual surge of 113.7% year-on-year (YoY) for the full quarter, as more Malaysian drivers switch to electric amid rising fuel-cost volatility. For an industry racing to keep pace with demand, the Company believes an early, well-capitalized operator is best placed to capture the growth ahead.

SpacePlus: Expanding Beyond Selangor

SpacePlus's footprint has grown well beyond Selangor, and is now extending into Perak, Melaka and venturing into Johor public charging facilities, marking SpacePlus's expansion into a new state, and it has also crossed borders entirely through a partnership deal in the United States, where Terravis's Worksport charger, a subsidiary of Worksport Ltd. runs on SpacePlus's app infrastructure which gives the brand its first overseas footprint in addition to its growing presence in Malaysia.

CEO Commentary

"Today, most EV charging stations in Malaysia still run on grid electricity from Tenaga Nasional Berhad. We see that as an opportunity, not a limitation because as a solar EPCC company with in-house BESS capabilities, we can help SpacePlus stations move toward solar-powered charging over time, which lowers running costs for Nichcom Go and gives our own solar and battery storage business new sites to scale into. This investment will be a strategic fit for both of us: they bring the charging network and customer reach, we bring the energy infrastructure to power it more sustainably," said Lee Seng Chi, Chief Executive Officer, CEO of Founder Group Limited.

"We have set a clear goal of deploying 1,000 EV charging stations across Malaysia by 2028, and this strategic partnership gives us the capital, expertise and energy capabilities to accelerate that roadmap," said Nilson Chong, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, CEO of Nichcom Go Sdn. Bhd. "As Malaysia's EV market continues to expand, we believe the ability to scale reliable charging infrastructure efficiently will be a key differentiator. With Founder Group's capabilities in solar and battery energy storage, we are better positioned to build a more integrated, sustainable and scalable charging network while creating greater long-term value for our partners and EV users."

About Nichcom Go Sdn. Bhd.

Nichcom Go Sdn. Bhd. is a Malaysian Charge Point Operator (CPO) behind the SpacePlus EV charging brand. The company provides EV charging facilities and digital charging services through its network of EV charging infrastructure and Nichcom Go Sdn. Bhd. also covering the development, installation, operation and management of EV charging solutions for commercial buildings.

The company's mission is to provide reliable and accessible EV charging solutions, enhance the charging experience for EV users and support the transition towards sustainable mobility.

For more information on the Company, please visit https://www.nichcomgo.com/.

About Founder Group Limited

Founder Group Limited is a pure-play, end-to-end EPCC solutions provider for solar PV facilities in Malaysia. The company's primary focus is on two key segments: large-scale solar projects and commercial and industrial (C&I) solar projects. The company's mission is to provide customers with innovative solar installation services, promote eco-friendly resources and achieve carbon neutrality.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current expectations and views of future events. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those listed under "Risk Factors" in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. You can identify some of these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "is/are likely to," "potential," "continue" or other similar expressions. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For media queries, please contact:

Founder Group Limited

info@founderenergy.com.my

- Nexa, inisiatif inovasi iklim dan kesehatan berskala global, menggandeng The Lighthouse Fund untuk mendukung solusi yang dipelopori masyarakat setempat dalam menghadapi ancaman kesehatan akibat perubahan iklim di Asia dan Pasifik -

NEW DELHI, India, Aug. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grand Challenges Canada (GCC), AVPN, dan sejumlah mitra global hari ini meluncurkan Nexa Lighthouse dalam AVPN Global Conference 2026. Inisiatif baru ini bertujuan mendanai inovasi yang dipelopori masyarakat setempat guna mengatasi dampak kesehatan dari perubahan iklim yang kian meningkat di kawasan Asia dan Pasifik.

Nexa Lighthouse mempertemukan Nexa, inisiatif iklim dan kesehatan global yang dipelopori bersama oleh GCC dan Science for Africa Foundation, dengan The Lighthouse Fund, inisiatif yang dipelopori oleh AVPN yang berinvestasi pada isu-isu yang menghubungkan iklim dan kesehatan. Nexa Lighthouse dipelopori bersama oleh GCC. Inisiatif ini menerima pendanaan dari Pemerintah Kanada dan AVPN bersama dengan Bayer Foundation, India Health Fund, Novo Nordisk Foundation, Sanofi Foundation, serta Temasek Foundation.

Pembukaan pendanaan pertama Nexa Lighthouse dibuka pada Oktober 2026 dan akan menerima proposal dari para inovator di seluruh kawasan Asia dan Pasifik.

Nexa adalah inisiatif inovasi iklim dan kesehatan global yang diluncurkan pada Juni 2026 dalam London Climate Action Week. Pembukaan pendanaan pertamanya menjaring berbagai solusi menjanjikan di kawasan Afrika dan Amerika. Prioritas pendanaan Nexa dibentuk berdasarkan survei iklim dan kesehatan terbesar hingga saat ini, yang melibatkan 6.400 responden di antaranya tenaga kesehatan, ilmuwan, inovator, pembuat kebijakan, dan pekerja kemanusiaan di 107 negara berpenghasilan rendah dan menengah. Nexa Lighthouse memperluas upaya tersebut ke kawasan Asia dan Pasifik.

Kenaikan suhu, pergeseran pola penyakit, dan cuaca ekstrem menimpa kelompok rentan jauh lebih berat dibandingkan yang lain. Kelompok ini di antaranya mencakup ibu hamil, penderita penyakit kronis, anak-anak, dan masyarakat terpinggirkan yang jauh dari jangkauan perawatan kesehatan. Nexa Lighthouse akan mendukung berbagai inovasi berani untuk mengatasi tiga pemicu utama risiko kesehatan akibat iklim yang muncul dalam survei tersebut: perubahan pola vektor (pembawa malaria dan demam berdarah), suhu panas yang ekstrem, serta memburuknya kualitas udara.

"Mengatasi dampak perubahan iklim membutuhkan gagasan-gagasan berani dan kemitraan kuat," ujar Yang Terhormat Randeep Sarai, Sekretaris Negara untuk Pembangunan Internasional Kanada. "Melalui kemitraan kami dengan Grand Challenges Canada, Global Affairs Canada mendukung inisiatif seperti Nexa Lighthouse yang membantu para inovator mengembangkan solusi untuk melindungi kesehatan dan memperkuat ketahanan di kawasan Asia dan Pasifik."

Krisis iklim telah digambarkan dalam The Lancet sebagai ancaman kesehatan global terbesar di abad ke-21. Namun, pendanaan global untuk mengatasi tantangan ini masih rendah. Hanya 0,5% dari pendanaan iklim yang difokuskan untuk meningkatkan kualitas kesehatan.i  Asia dan Pasifik adalah kawasan paling rawan bencana di dunia, tempat lebih dari empat dari lima penduduknya menghadapi beragam ancaman yang terkait dengan peristiwa iklim, baik yang datang secara bertahap maupun mendadak.ii Nexa Lighthouse hadir menjawab tekanan yang dihadapi masyarakat, seiring meningkatnya suhu, bergesernya pola penyakit, dan memburuknya kualitas udara yang memunculkan risiko kesehatan baru sekaligus membebani sistem kesehatan yang sudah kewalahan.

"Dampak perubahan iklim terhadap kesehatan sudah terjadi saat ini, dan mereka yang paling terdampak justru sudah membangun solusinya sendiri. Yang mereka butuhkan adalah modal dan dukungan yang bergerak selaras dengan kecepatan mereka," ujar Rahul Chandran, Chief Strategy and Partnerships Officer, Grand Challenges Canada. "Nexa Lighthouse mengubah keadaan itu. Kami bangga Nexa dapat bekerja sama dengan The Lighthouse Fund serta para mitra di seluruh Asia dan Pasifik yang memahami berbagai pasar ini, mengenal para inovator ini, dan akan bergabung dengan kami untuk mendukung mereka."

"Asia dan Pasifik akan menghadapi beberapa dampak kesehatan terbesar akibat perubahan iklim. Namun, kawasan ini juga menjadi tempat bagi para inovator yang sudah mulai mengembangkan solusi," ujar Dhun Davar, Chief of Programmes and Deputy CEO, AVPN. "AVPN selama ini telah bekerja untuk menghadirkan modal dan kolaborasi bagi berbagai solusi yang dipelopori masyarakat setempat melalui Lighthouse Fund. Nexa Lighthouse melanjutkan upaya itu dengan menyatukan mitra baru dan lama untuk membantu berbagai inovasi menjanjikan di bidang iklim dan kesehatan berkembang dari sekadar gagasan awal menjadi solusi yang dapat diterapkan secara luas."

Nexa Lighthouse akan menyediakan pendanaan katalistik bagi inovasi iklim dan kesehatan yang memasuki tahap pertumbuhan, yang mampu memperkuat daya adaptasi dan ketahanan sistem kesehatan sembari memiliki potensi besar untuk menghadirkan dampak nyata dan jangkauan lebih luas. Setiap solusi yang telah teruji akan menerima pendanaan Transition to Scale sekitar US$250.000 hingga US$2.000.000, bergantung pada tingkat kematangan inovasinya.

Inovasi dapat berupa produk, proses, layanan, atau model penyampaian yang mampu memberikan hasil lebih baik dibandingkan pendekatan yang sudah ada dan menghasilkan dampak transformasional.

Mitra dari kalangan filantropi, sektor publik, dan sektor swasta yang tertarik untuk bergabung dengan Nexa Lighthouse, serta calon peserta, dapat mengunjungi www.nexalighthouse.org untuk mendapatkan informasi lebih lanjut.

Tentang Nexa Lighthouse:

Nexa Lighthouse adalah inisiatif iklim dan kesehatan yang dipelopori bersama oleh Grand Challenges Canada, bekerja sama dengan Pemerintah Kanada, dan AVPN. Inisiatif ini mempertemukan Nexa dan The Lighthouse Fund bersama koalisi mitra pendanaan. Inisiatif ini mendukung inovasi yang dipelopori masyarakat setempat untuk membantu masyarakat di kawasan Asia dan Pasifik mengantisipasi, beradaptasi, dan merespons ancaman kesehatan terkait iklim, dengan fokus pada panas ekstrem, penyakit yang ditularkan nyamuk, dan buruknya kualitas udara. Pelajari selengkapnya di www.nexalighthouse.org

Mitra Nexa Lighthouse meliputi Grand Challenges Canada, AVPN, Bayer Foundation, India Health Fund, Novo Nordisk Foundation, Sanofi Foundation, dan Temasek Foundation.

Tentang Grand Challenges Canada:

Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) mendukung Bold Ideas with Big Impact. Dengan pendanaan utama dari Pemerintah Kanada, GCC berinvestasi pada inovasi berani yang dipelopori masyarakat setempat untuk mengatasi tantangan kesehatan dan pembangunan yang krusial. GCC juga membantu berbagai solusi paling menjanjikan agar dapat menjangkau jutaan orang di seluruh dunia. GCC telah mendukung lebih dari 1.600 inovasi di 110 negara dan menargetkan untuk menjangkau 700 juta orang paling lambat pada tahun 2035. Pelajari selengkapnya di www.grandchallenges.ca

Tentang AVPN:

AVPN adalah platform dampak sosial terbesar di Asia, tempat lebih dari 700 penyedia sumber daya, inovator, dan perantara dari 43 pasar bekerja sama untuk menggalang modal. Berlandaskan keahlian dan kemitraan regional yang kuat, AVPN kini tengah menumbuhkan ekosistem yang dinamis demi mempercepat lahirnya kemajuan yang terukur ke arah pertumbuhan inklusif. Melalui upaya inilah Asia diberdayakan untuk tampil sebagai pemimpin dalam menghadirkan dampak di tingkat global. Misi AVPN adalah mewujudkan tekad menjadi dampak nyata dengan menyatukan berbagai pihak, gagasan, dan sumber daya demi kemajuan Asia. Hal ini dilakukan dengan memperkuat kemitraan, mendorong kolaborasi terbuka, dan memfasilitasi aliran sumber daya terkoordinasi lintas pasar dan perbatasan. Bersama dengan masyarakat, AVPN tengah membangun ekosistem berdampak yang dinamis guna mewujudkan Asia yang sejahtera dan inklusif. Pelajari selengkapnya di www.avpn.asia

Kontak media

Grand Challenges Canada: Gillian Mathurin, media@grandchallenges.ca

AVPN. Mehar Kakkar, mehar.kakkar@avpn.asia

i Rockefeller Foundation, Mendanai Solusi Iklim dan Kesehatan. https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/initiatives/financing-climate-health-solutions/

ii 1 UN ESCAP, Laporan Bencana Asia-Pasifik 2023. https://un-ggim-ap.org/sites/default/files/media/docs/Asia-Pacific%20Disaster%20Report%202023-Full%20report.pdf 

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Seyond (02665.HK) announced its interim results for the first half of 2026, delivering strong growth across shipments, revenue, profitability, and operating efficiency.

During the reporting period, total LiDAR shipments reached approximately 450,900 units, up 364.8% year over year and surpassing the company's total shipments for full-year 2025. Revenue reached approximately US$140.2 million, an increase of 127.9% year over year, while gross profit rose 152.0% to approximately US$15.7 million Gross margin improved from 10.1% in the first half of 2025 to 11.2%.

At the same time, the ratio of selling, administrative, and R&D expenses to total revenue decreased by 26.3 percentage points, while net loss narrowed by 23.2% year over year, reflecting continued improvements in scale, profitability, and operating efficiency.

The first half of 2026 marked Seyond's first full six-month reporting period since its public listing and represented an important transition point in the company's long-term growth strategy. Years of investment in core technology, product platforms, customer development, manufacturing scale, and commercialization are increasingly translating into business growth.

At the same time, as AI expands beyond the digital world and increasingly interacts with physical environments, Seyond is advancing its long-term positioning as a provider of sensing products and solutions for Physical AI. With a diversified product portfolio, a growing automotive customer base, and rapid expansion of higher-margin non-automotive businesses, the company is strengthening both its shipment scale and revenue mix.

Three LiDAR Platforms Enter Full Commercialization

Seyond's product portfolio has entered a new stage of commercialization, with its Falcon, Robin, and Hummingbird platforms spanning applications from ultra-long-range perception to near-field coverage and from high-performance flagship solutions to cost-efficient, scalable sensing.

Together, these three platforms provide a broad LiDAR portfolio capable of supporting diverse requirements across automotive and non-automotive markets.

During the first half of 2026, Seyond shipped approximately 416,300 ADAS LiDAR units, representing an increase of 346.0% year over year.

The company began mass-production deliveries to new automotive customers, including GAC, while new models from NIO's ONVO brand also entered production. A total of seven new vehicle models entered mass production during the reporting period, followed by another two in July.

The Robin platform remained a key driver of shipment growth. In the second quarter alone, Robin-series shipments reached approximately 191,600 units, accounting for approximately 70.7% of total shipments. The long-range Robin E series has been adopted by mainstream brands including GAC Aion, GAC Motor, Hyptec and NIO ONVO, with models including the GAC Aion N60, GAC Hyptec S600 and SAIC MG 07 entering presale.

The mid-range, wide-FOV Robin W has been deployed on NIO's NT3.0 platform while also expanding into non-automotive applications including autonomous delivery, industrial AGVs, and intelligent sanitation.

Seyond is also preparing for the next generation of L3 applications. Its product platform designed for next-generation L3 requirements has reached maturity and secured multiple new project nominations, offering ultra-high resolution with more than 1,000 scan lines.

Meanwhile, the fully solid-state Hummingbird platform has secured nominations from several leading OEM makers. Following the start of scaled deliveries in July, Hummingbird is positioned to become Seyond's third major volume platform alongside Falcon and Robin.

Beyond Automotive: Robotics and Physical AI Drive the Next Phase of Growth

Seyond is accelerating its expansion beyond automotive, bringing LiDAR-based perception to a broader range of real-world environments. This strategy is already translating into significant growth, particularly across robotics and other emerging applications.

In the first half of 2026, shipments of robotics and other products reached approximately 34,600 units, representing an increase of 842.9% year over year. Revenue from this segment reached approximately US$18.4 million, up 241.3%, while revenue from the company's solutions business reached approximately US$4.5 million, an increase of 489.6% year over year.

Across the broader robotics market, Seyond continued to deepen relationships with existing customers including Zelos Technology, UISEE Technologies, KUSA Technology and EP Equipment, while securing large-scale orders from companies including Farizon Auto and Jinglv Environment.

These deployments span a growing range of applications, including urban logistics and delivery, airport ground transportation, autonomous sanitation, and industrial automation. In the commercial vehicle sector, Seyond is also supporting leading companies including SHACMAN, Foton Motor and Plus AI.

This diversification reflects a broader shift in the LiDAR market. As Physical AI moves from technology validation toward scaled real-world deployment, sensing demand is expanding across robotics, intelligent transportation, industrial automation, and other non-automotive environments-opening new growth opportunities for LiDAR beyond passenger vehicles.

Expanding the Physical AI Ecosystem Globally

Seyond is also expanding partnerships designed to bring its sensing technology into a wider range of Physical AI applications.

Through a strategic cooperation agreement with Plus AI, the company is expected to enter the ecosystem of Full Truck Alliance, a leading digital freight platform in China, supporting the scaled deployment of Physical AI technology across intelligent freight operations.

Internationally, Seyond continues to accelerate its global expansion. The company has established a deep collaboration with German robotics company Proximity Robotics and signed a strategic partnership with U.S.-based AMSYS, extending the application of its technology into spatial intelligence and intelligent infrastructure.

With Falcon, Robin, and Hummingbird now advancing through commercialization alongside a rapidly diversifying application portfolio, Seyond is building an increasingly broad presence across the Physical AI ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the company plans to continue advancing product development through technology innovation while leveraging scaled manufacturing to strengthen cost competitiveness and support long-term growth across automotive, robotics, intelligent infrastructure, and other emerging markets.

Maintaining Full-Year Shipment Growth Outlook of Approximately 200%

In the second half of 2026, Seyond plans to continue ramping existing mass-production programs while advancing the commercialization of its next-generation L3 projects.

Vehicles based on these L3 programs are expected to incorporate multiple LiDAR sensors per vehicle, creating additional opportunities for shipment growth. At the same time, Hummingbird D1 began large-scale deliveries in July, which is expected to further diversify the company's application footprint and revenue mix.

Based on current customer plans, order visibility, and delivery schedules, Seyond maintains its outlook for approximately 200% year-over-year growth in total LiDAR shipments for full-year 2026.

SEYOND

Seyond Marketing Team

PR@Seyond.com

METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 August 2026 - Green GSM, an all-electric ride-hailing platform, today officially launched Premium Taxi, an upscale seven-seat taxi service in the Philippines.

With an all-electric fleet of sophisticated and spacious VinFast Limo Green vehicles, the service is designed to deliver a comfortable and convenient travel experience, setting a new standard for the high-end electric taxi segment in the market.

As Green GSM's second service tier in the Philippines after Green GSM Car, Premium Taxi offers a new mobility option for groups of up to six passengers, families, business travellers, passengers carrying multiple pieces of luggage, and customers seeking a smooth ride in a pleasant and relaxing environment.

The entire Limo Green fleet is finished in black to reflect its high-end positioning, making it easily recognisable and distinguishable from the existing Green GSM Car service, which features a cyan color scheme. Alongside its modern exterior design and spacious seven-seat configuration with three rows, each Limo Green is equipped with amenities including automatic air conditioning, dedicated air vents for the two rear rows, and an air filtration system that helps keep the cabin pleasant and fresh.

Alongside the three signature benefits of electric vehicle-zero emissions, no fuel odour and no engine noise-Green GSM's Premium Taxi also delivers a five-star service experience through carefully-selected drivers who have received high ratings for service quality. Fares are transparently displayed through in-vehicle meters and on the Green GSM app, allowing customers to conveniently track their fares and trip information.

During its initial phase, Premium Taxi will operate in Makati, Taguig, Mandaluyong and Pasig City, serving travel needs across key business districts, commercial centres, hotels and transport hubs in Metro Manila. Customers can book through the Green GSM app, hail an available vehicle on the street, or contact the customer service hotline at 02-7777-8080.

Ms. Le Thi Thu Trang, CEO of Green GSM Philippines, said: "Premium Taxi is not simply about providing more space. It is designed for journeys where comfort and attention to detail matter, from family trips and airport transfers to business engagements and special occasions. By combining the spacious interior of the VinFast Limo Green with professional drivers and Green GSM's five-star service standards, we aim to give Filipino customers a high-end mobility option that is thoughtfully-delivered from the moment they book until the journey ends."

With Premium Taxi, Green GSM expands its all-electric mobility portfolio in the Philippines to better meet customers' diverse needs. Going forward, Green GSM will continue to enhance service quality while consistently upholding its "5 Green Promises", with standards of professionalism, transparency and attentive customer care, thereby contributing to greener urban transportation.

GREEN GSM IN THE PHILIPPINES

As of March 31, 2026, Green GSM had completed nearly five million trips and more than 32.6 million kilometres in all-electric vehicles in the Philippines. These journeys are estimated to have contributed to reducing approximately 6,263 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, equivalent to the amount absorbed by nearly 289,000 trees in one year, demonstrating the cumulative value of everyday green mobility choices.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #GreenSM

- Nexa, the global climate and health innovation initiative, joins forces with The Lighthouse Fund to back locally led solutions to climate-driven health threats across Asia and the Pacific -

NEW DELHI, India, Aug. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grand Challenges Canada (GCC), AVPN, and global partners today launched Nexa Lighthouse at the AVPN Global Conference 2026, a new initiative to fund locally led innovations that address the growing health impacts of climate change across Asia and the Pacific.

Nexa Lighthouse brings together Nexa, a global climate and health initiative co-led by GCC and the Science for Africa Foundation, with The Lighthouse Fund, an AVPN-led initiative that invests at the intersection of climate and health. Nexa Lighthouse is co-led by GCC, which receives funding from the Government of Canada, and AVPN, together with Bayer Foundation, India Health Fund, Novo Nordisk Foundation, Sanofi Foundation, and Temasek Foundation

The first funding call for Nexa Lighthouse opens in October 2026 and will accept applications from innovators across Asia and the Pacific.

Nexa is a global climate and health innovation initiative that launched in June 2026 at London Climate Action Week, with a first funding call that sought promising solutions in Africa and the Americas. Nexa's funding priorities were shaped by the largest climate and health survey to date, which engaged 6,400 respondents - health workers, scientists, innovators, policymakers and humanitarian workers - across 107 low- and middle-income countries. Nexa Lighthouse extends that work into Asia and the Pacific.

Rising temperatures, changing disease patterns and severe weather events disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, children, and underserved communities with limited access to healthcare. Nexa Lighthouse will support bold innovations that address three key climate-related drivers of health risk that emerged from the survey: changing vector patterns (driving malaria and dengue), extreme heat, and poor air quality.

"Addressing the impacts of climate change demands bold ideas and strong partnerships," said the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Canada's Secretary of State for International Development. "Through our partnership with Grand Challenges Canada, Global Affairs Canada supports initiatives like Nexa Lighthouse that help innovators develop solutions to protect health and strengthen resilience across Asia and the Pacific."

The climate crisis has been described in The Lancet as the greatest global health threat of the 21st century, but global financing to address this challenge remains low. Only 0.5% of climate funding focuses on improving health outcomes.i Asia and the Pacific is the world's most disaster-prone region, where more than four in five people face multi-hazard risks associated with slow- or sudden-onset climate events.ii Nexa Lighthouse responds to the pressures communities face as intensifying heat, shifting disease patterns, and worsening air quality drive new health risks and strain already overburdened health systems.

"The health effects of climate change are here, and the people most affected are already building solutions. What they need is capital and support that moves at their speed," said Rahul Chandran, Chief Strategy and Partnerships Officer, Grand Challenges Canada. "Nexa Lighthouse changes that. We are proud to have Nexa join forces with The Lighthouse Fund and with partners across Asia and the Pacific who know these markets, know these innovators, and will join us to back them."

"Asia and the Pacific will face some of the greatest health impacts of a changing climate, but the region is also home to innovators who are already developing solutions," said Dhun Davar, Chief of Programmes and Deputy CEO, AVPN. "AVPN has been working to bring capital and collaboration to these locally led solutions through the Lighthouse Fund. Nexa Lighthouse builds on that work, bringing together new and existing partners to help promising climate and health innovations move from early ideas to solutions that can scale."

Nexa Lighthouse will provide catalytic funding for growth-stage climate and health innovations that strengthen health systems adaptation and resilience and have strong potential for impact and scale. Proven solutions will each receive approximately US$250,000?US$2,000,000 in Transition to Scale funding, depending on the maturity of the innovation.

Innovations may take the form of a product, process, service, or delivery model that can deliver better outcomes than existing approaches and lead to transformational impact.

Philanthropic, public-sector and private-sector partners interested in joining Nexa Lighthouse, and potential applicants, can visit www.nexalighthouse.org to learn more.

About Nexa Lighthouse:

Nexa Lighthouse is a climate and health initiative co-led by Grand Challenges Canada, in partnership with the Government of Canada, and AVPN, bringing together Nexa and The Lighthouse Fund with a coalition of funding partners. It supports locally led innovations that help communities across Asia and the Pacific anticipate, adapt and respond to climate-related health threats, with a focus on extreme heat, mosquito-borne infections and poor air quality. Learn more at www.nexalighthouse.org

Nexa Lighthouse partners include Grand Challenges Canada, AVPN, Bayer Foundation, India Health Fund, Novo Nordisk Foundation, Sanofi Foundation, and Temasek Foundation.

About Grand Challenges Canada:

Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) backs Bold Ideas with Big Impact?. With anchor funding from the Government of Canada, GCC invests in bold, locally led innovations solving critical health and development challenges, and helps the most promising solutions reach millions of people around the world. GCC has supported more than 1,600 innovations in 110 countries and aims to reach 700 million people by 2035. Learn more at www.grandchallenges.ca

About AVPN:

AVPN is Asia's largest platform for social impact, where over 700 resource providers, innovators and intermediaries from across 43 markets collaborate to mobilise capital. Grounded in deep regional expertise and partnerships, AVPN is building a thriving ecosystem that accelerates measurable progress toward inclusive growth, empowering Asia to lead the way in global impact. AVPN's mission is to translate intent into impact by bringing together people, ideas, and resources for Asia. It does this by strengthening partnerships, fostering open collaboration, and enabling the coordinated flow of resources across markets and borders. Together with communities, AVPN is building a thriving impact ecosystem that drives a prosperous and inclusive Asia. Learn more at www.avpn.asia

Media contacts

Grand Challenges Canada: Gillian Mathurin, media@grandchallenges.ca

AVPN. Mehar Kakkar, mehar.kakkar@avpn.asia

i Rockefeller Foundation, Financing Climate-Health Solutions. https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/initiatives/financing-climate-health-solutions/

ii 1 UN ESCAP, Asia-Pacific Disaster Report 2023. https://un-ggim-ap.org/sites/default/files/media/docs/Asia-Pacific%20Disaster%20Report%202023-Full%20report.pdf 

Maiden S-K 1300 economic study represents only the ST1 Nd-Pr rare earth deposit within the Sarfartoq REE carbonatite district

At 2025 consumption levels, the NdPr oxide Sarfartoq is expected to produce annually from ST1 alone would represent approximately 34% of all NdPr oxide refined outside China

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via IBN - Greenland Mines Ltd (Nasdaq: GRML) ("Greenland Mines" or the "Company"), a Western-aligned critical minerals developer, today announced that the Company has released an independent Initial Assessment ("IA") on the Sarfartoq Nd-Pr Rare Earth Element Project in southwest Greenland, a carbonatite-hosted, neodymium-praseodymium-rich rare earth deposit held under Greenland Exploration License MEL 2020-32.

The Sarfartoq Project is expected, under a high case, to have a pre-tax Net Present Value (NPV 8% real discount rate) of approximately up to US$2.05 billion at an IRR 118.6% including Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources and up to US$1.49 billion at an IRR 92.7% including the Indicated but excluding Inferred Mineral Resources.

Western World Supply Significance

Western Supply Chain: Neodymium and praseodymium supply outside China is limited; Sarfartoq is positioned to supply the critical magnet rare earth supply chain.

Global Supply Significance: At 2025 consumption levels, Sarfartoq's planned annual NdPr oxide production would represent approximately 34% of all NdPr oxide refined outside China, for each of the Project's nine scheduled operating years.

Strategic Western Partner: Neo Performance Materials Inc. (TSX: NEO) to become a strategic shareholder of Greenland Mines, retaining offtake rights (non-binding) on up to 60% of future Sarfartoq concentrate production for processing at NPM's Silmet facility in Estonia - the only rare earth separation plant and magnet of scale currently operating at commercial scale in the European Union.

Resource and Technical Highlights

Magnet Rare Earth Project: Neodymium-praseodymium-rich carbonatite deposit; neodymium and praseodymium account for approximately 84% of in-concentrate basket value. Hosted in conventional rare earth minerals already being processed at commercial scale elsewhere in the world today.

Resource Base: Indicated Mineral Resources of 6.9 Mt @ 1.60% TREO (3,070 ppm Nd2O3, 963 ppm Pr6O11) and Inferred Mineral Resources of 5.3 Mt @ 0.96% TREO (1,850 ppm Nd2O3, 572 ppm Pr6O11), Hybrid open-pit and underground scenario.

Landmark Study: First combined optimized open-pit and underground ("Hybrid") Mineral Resource Estimate at Sarfartoq.

Metallurgy: 2026 SGS Canada (Lakefield) test work confirming flotation concentrates of approximately 8.25% TREO at a design TREO recovery of 63.6%.

Mine Plan: Nine-year mine life processing 12.2 million tons at 1.4 million tons per annum, at a delivered head grade of 1.32% TREO.

Expanded Drill Database: 94 core holes (23,094 meters) of the Project's 161-hole, approximately 35,800-meter database, including previously undisclosed 2023 infill drilling, versus roughly 50 holes supporting the 2012 estimate.

Project and Strategic Details

Location: Approximately 60 km southwest of Kangerlussuaq and the international civilian and military airport in West Greenland. Exploration rights held under Greenland Exploration Licence MEL 2020-32 which covers 191 square-kilometers.

Baseline investigations: Environmental baseline studies led by WSP Denmark; 2nd year of investigations planned for September 2026 ? a regulatory prerequisite for an exploitation license and mine production.

Upside Potential within the Sarfartoq Mineral Exploration License

District-Scale Exploration: The ST1 deposit occupies well under one percent of the Company's 191-square-kilometer Mineral Exploration license MEL 2020-32; five other known rare earth occurrences along the 32-kilometer outer ring structure remain largely untested, representing significant additional exploration potential beyond this Initial Assessment.

Dr. Bo M?ller Stensgaard, President of Greenland Mines commented:

"This Initial Assessment shows the extraordinary scale of value embedded in just a small portion of Sarfartoq. Under our High case, Sarfartoq is valued at over US$2 billion pre-tax with an IRR approaching 120%. Neodymium and praseodymium are the two elements every high-performance magnet on earth depends on, and the West currently has almost nowhere to source them outside of China. Sarfartoq changes that equation.

"This Initial Assessment quantifies a de-risked and highly economic development case that puts this deposit in the top-tier of North American, European and western-world oriented upstream rare-earth magnet assets.

"At 2025 consumption levels, the NdPr oxide Sarfartoq is expected to produce from ST1 alone would represent approximately 34% of all NdPr oxide refined outside China, for each of the Project's nine scheduled operating years - underscoring the global significance of a resource that reflects only a fraction of the license area's potential."

Results of the Initial Assessment

The results of the IA demonstrate that, under a high case, the Sarfartoq Project is expected to have a pre-tax Net Present Value (NPV 8% real discount rate) of approximately US$2.05 billion at an IRR 118.6% including Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources and US$1.49 billion at an IRR 92.7% including the Indicated but excluding Inferred Mineral Resources.

The high case combines a basket price 15% above the base-case assumption, operating costs 15% below the base case and capital costs 20% below the base case, with physicals, mine schedule and metallurgical recovery held identically

The full IA report, prepared in the Technical Report Summary format under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation S-K Subpart 1300 with an effective date of July 31, 2026, is a key study for advancing the development strategy for the Sarfartoq Project and can be viewed by visiting greenlandmines.com. Agricola Mining Consultants Pty Ltd conducted the IA.

On Aug. 24, 2026, Greenland Mines released the MRE (effective July 31, 2026) on the Sarfartoq Project in compliance with Regulation S-K 1300. The NPV in the IA was estimated based off the hybrid open-pit and underground Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) of 6.9 million tons of Indicated Mineral Resources at 1.60% TREO and 5.3 million tons of Inferred Mineral Resources at 0.96% TREO.

Greenland Mines expects, as parts of its development plans for Sarfartoq, to conduct targeted infill drilling to upgrade Inferred Mineral Resources, pilot-scale metallurgical test work, mine engineering planning and continued environmental and social baseline studies led by WSP Denmark, advancing Sarfartoq toward a Pre-Feasibility Study.

A District-Scale Opportunity Beyond This Initial Assessment

Greenland Mines plans to deploy modern exploration techniques, including high-resolution, low-level drone-based magnetic surveys, to more efficiently identify and prioritize additional targets across the license ahead of ground-based follow-up. The Company's technical team is scheduled to be back on the ground at Sarfartoq in September 2026 to advance this district-scale exploration program.

Dr. Bo Moller Stensgaard, President Greenland Mines Ltd., added:

"The Initial Assessment is built entirely on the ST1 deposit alone - just one target on a much larger system. At 2025 consumption levels, Sarfartoq's planned production would supply roughly a third of all NdPr oxide refined outside China every year of its operating life.

"ST1 sits within the outer ring structure around the Sarfartoq carbonatite complex ? a structure that circles the complex for roughly 32 kilometers within our exploration license that is 191-square-kilometers. Well under 1% of the land package has been explored in detail.

"Five other known rare earth occurrences - ST40, ST19, ST24, ST31 and ST43 - are known, but these have seen very limited exploration drilling, and still returned significant rare earth results - including at ST40, lying on the same outer ring structure 4 km away from ST1 on a coincident magnetic lows and radiometric thorium highs that mark the ring-dyke structure, which historical sampling indicates is more neodymium-enriched than ST1 itself. These occurrences remain largely still insufficiently explored, drill tested and developed - and this is alongside additional early-stage exploration targets across the complex.

"We see this as the foundation of a major new Western rare earth district, and we're putting boots on the ground again this September to begin proving that out."

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the Initial Assessment has been reviewed and approved by Malcolm Castle, MAusIMM, of Agricola Mining Consultants Pty Ltd, an independent Qualified Person as defined under S-K 1300. The Mineral Resource Estimate referenced herein was prepared by Ronald G. Simpson, P.Geo., of GeoSim Services Inc., and Hassan Ghaffari, P.Eng., M.A.Sc., of Tetra Tech Canada Inc., each an independent Qualified Person.

About Greenland Mines Ltd

Greenland Mines Ltd is a Nasdaq-listed company with two operating divisions: (1) Mining, focused on the exploration and development of the Skaergaard Project in southeast Greenland and, subject to closing of the previously announced transaction, the Sarfartoq neodymium-praseodymium (Nd-Pr) rare earths project in southwest Greenland; and (2) Biotech, including Klotho's KLTO-202 primary indication for ALS. The Company's strategy is centered on building a multi-asset platform with exposure to rare earth magnet materials, precious metals, and select midstream processing opportunities, while advancing its broader North Atlantic Critical Metals Corridor vision linking Greenland resources with allied downstream jurisdictions and industrial infrastructure.

Cautionary Note Regarding Mineral Resources

Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. This news release uses the term "Initial Assessment," a preliminary technical and economic study under Regulation S-K Subpart 1300, which may include Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have modifying factors applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the results of the Initial Assessment will be realized. No Mineral Reserves have been estimated for the Sarfartoq Project.

Corporate Communications:

IBN

Austin, Texas

IBN.Ai

512.354.7000 Office

Editor@IBN.Ai

Digital Realty's new Jurong Island location will expand its Singapore platform with AI-ready, sustainable capacity designed to support the country's next chapter of digital growth

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Digital Realty (NYSE: DLR), the world's largest cloud- and carrier-neutral data center platform, today announced it has been selected under Singapore's second Data Center Call for Application (DC-CFA2), with a provisional allocation of 50 megawatts (MW) of capacity to develop a new data center at Jurong Town Corporation's low-carbon data center park on Jurong Island - a milestone that reinforces Singapore's position as a trusted, connected and sustainable digital infrastructure hub for Asia.

The selection marks the next phase of Digital Realty's long-term growth in Singapore and will expand the company's ability to support customers deploying the next wave of AI inference, high-performance computing and enterprise digital workloads across Asia Pacific. Purpose-built for Singapore's digital economy priorities, the new facility will be designed to meet DC-CFA2's requirements for best-in-class energy efficiency and power more than 50% of its capacity through green energy pathways.

Digital Realty was selected through an open competitive process led by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The awarded proposals were recognized for their ability to strengthen Singapore's position as a trusted hub for AI, digital infrastructure and network connectivity, as well as to contribute to innovation and economic development, and advance the country's sustainability objectives.

"Singapore has long been a strategic market for Digital Realty, and we are honored to be selected under DC-CFA2 at such an important moment for the country's digital future," said Serene Nah, Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific, Digital Realty.

"Through DC-CFA2, we plan to expand on Jurong Island with next-generation AI-ready infrastructure. Sustainability is central to how we operate at Digital Realty, and we are committed to scaling responsibly as demand grows. We are grateful to the Singapore Government, lead agencies, our customers and partners for their continued trust and collaboration, and to our employees whose dedication makes this possible. We look forward to providing additional infrastructure to sustainably serve our customers in this leading global digital hub," she continued.

Singapore has been a cornerstone of Digital Realty's Asia Pacific strategy since establishing operations in the country in 2010. Today, it is home to Digital Realty's regional Asia Pacific headquarters, Global Command Center, and three operational data centers with approximately 84 MW of combined capacity - giving the company a deep operating base from which to support Singapore's continued growth as a regional digital hub.

Demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow as organizations expand cloud adoption, digital services, and enterprise data processing. AI is accelerating this growth across industries, including financial services, technology, logistics, and healthcare - sectors where Singapore plays an important regional role. As enterprises increasingly deploy AI in production, infrastructure requirements are also evolving. AI inference requires workloads to be located closer to users and enterprise data, supported by strong connectivity, resilience, and security.

Singapore's combination of connectivity, trusted governance, and highly developed digital ecosystem positions it to play an increasingly important role in supporting these workloads across the region. Once operational, Digital Realty's fourth Singapore data center is expected to strengthen this role by expanding the capacity available for high-value AI and enterprise deployments, connecting customers to its global PlatformDIGITAL ecosystem. The new facility will expand Digital Realty's interconnected Singapore campus and is connected globally via ServiceFabric, a service orchestration platform that connects the campus with other Digital Realty and 3rd party data centers globally to enable seamless connectivity, data exchange, and workload deployment across sites.

The new Jurong Island facility will also build on Digital Realty's longstanding sustainability initiatives in Singapore. The company's existing Singapore operations already achieve 100% renewable energy coverage through direct retail energy agreements with Tuas Power. Digital Realty has also collaborated with IMDA on Singapore's tropical data center standard, demonstrating that higher chilled-water operating temperatures can improve energy efficiency without compromising operational resilience.

Drawing on the tropical data center standard, Digital Realty increased operating temperatures by 2C across two data halls, reducing overall energy consumption by approximately 2-3% during the pilot period. In addition, Digital Realty uses sophisticated Building Management Systems to monitor more than 30,000 infrastructure points across its Singapore facilities, including real-time Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

Digital Realty plans to continue investing in resilient digital infrastructure, advancing energy and resource efficiency, and deepening local partnerships that support innovation, talent development and Singapore's long-term digital competitiveness.

About Digital Realty

Digital 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 Information

Media Contact

Joyce Ng

Digital Realty

jong@digitalrealty.com

Investor Relations

Jordan Sadler / Jim Huseby

Digital Realty

(737) 281 - 0101

InvestorRelations@digitalrealty.com

Safe Harbor Statement

This 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, sustainability goals, certifications and strategy and potential impact from sustainability initiatives 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.

Copyright ? 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

August 24, 2026

Amsterdam, the Netherlands - Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the successful pricing of its offering of EUR 650 million fixed rate notes due 2034 (the "Notes") under its European Medium Term Note (EMTN) program. The Notes are the healthcare industry's first EU Green Bond under the new European Green Bond Standard.

This issuance is not expected to result into an increase of Net Debt. Gross Debt will be temporarily increased until repayment of the 2027 bond maturity in May 2027.

The issue price for the Notes due 2034 is 99.655% with a Coupon of 4.0%, resulting in a yield of 4.055%. The 7.8 year tranche was oversubscribed by 2.7 times.

An amount equivalent to the gross proceeds will be used to finance taxonomy-aligned economic activities as referred to in Philips European Green Bond Factsheet, supporting Philips in delivering on its 2030 Impact Ambition.

Settlement and issue of the Notes is scheduled for August 28, 2026. Application has been made for the Notes to be listed on the Official List of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and to be traded on the regulated market of the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

 

Philips is committed to maintaining a strong investment grade credit rating. Currently, the company has a BBB+ rating by Standard & Poor's (stable outlook), a Baa1 rating by Moody's (stable outlook) and a BBB+ rating by Fitch (stable outlook). 

THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT AN OFFER OF SECURITIES FOR SALE IN THE UNITED STATES. THE SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN HAVE NOT BEEN, AND WILL NOT BE, REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE 'SECURITIES ACT'), AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES ABSENT REGISTRATION OR AN APPLICABLE EXEMPTION FROM REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT. THERE IS NO INTENTION TO REGISTER ANY SECURITIES REFERRED TO HEREIN IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC OFFERING OF SECURITIES IN THE UNITED STATES.

PROHIBITION OF SALES TO EEA RETAIL INVESTORS - The Notes are not intended to be offered, sold or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold or otherwise made available to any retail investor in the European Economic Area (the "EEA"). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is one (or more) of: (i) a retail client as defined in point (11) of Article 4(1) of Directive 2014/65/EU (as amended, "MiFID II"); or (ii) a customer within the meaning of Directive (EU) 2016/97, where that customer would not qualify as a professional client as defined in point (10) of Article 4(1) of MiFID II. Consequently no key information document required by Regulation (EU) No 1286/2014 (as amended, the "PRIIPs Regulation") for offering or selling the Notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the EEA has been prepared and therefore offering or selling the Notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the EEA may be unlawful under the PRIIPs Regulation.

PROHIBITION OF SALES TO UK RETAIL INVESTORS - The Notes are not intended to be offered, sold, distributed or otherwise made available to and should not be offered, sold, distributed or otherwise  made available to any retail investor in the United Kingdom (the "UK"). For these purposes, a retail investor means a person who is not a professional client as defined in point (8) of Article 2(1) of Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (as amended, the "EUWA"). Consequently no disclosure document required by the FCA Product Disclosure Sourcebook ("DISC") for offering, selling or distributing the Notes or otherwise making them available to retail investors in the UK has been prepared and therefore offering, selling or distributing the Notes or otherwise making them available to any retail investor in the UK may be unlawful under DISC and the Consumer Composite Investments (Designated Activities) Regulations 2024.

In the UK, this press release is being distributed to, and is directed at, only (a) persons who have professional experience in matters relating to investments who fall within the definition of "investment professionals" in Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order"); or (b) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). The Notes are available only to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such Notes will be available only to or will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this press release or any of its contents.

Relevant stabilisation regulations including FCA/ICMA apply.

MiFID II and UK MiFIR professionals/ECPs-only

Manufacturer target market (MiFID II and UK MiFIR product governance) is eligible counterparties and professional clients only (all distribution channels).

For further information, please contact:

Michael Fuchs

Philips Global External Relations

Tel.: +31 6 1486 9261

E-mail: michael.fuchs@philips.com

Dorin Danu

Philips Investor Relations

Tel.: +31 20 59 77055

E-mail: dorin.danu@philips.com

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips' patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home.

Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in image-guided therapy, diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, monitoring, enterprise informatics and personal health. Philips generated 2025 sales of approximately EUR 18 billion and employs approximately 63,700 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter.

HOHHOT, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 August 2026 - On August 22, 2026, the fourth annual Green Computing Power (Artificial Intelligence) Conference was held on the picturesque Cilechuan Grassland in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia.

Centered on the theme "Building Synergy between Computing and Electricity, Exploring New Horizons in Token Economy, and Creating the Future of Artificial Intelligence Together," the conference presented the latest research achievements, including the Green Computing Power Development Research Report (2026), and showcased pilot initiatives such as "millisecond-level urban computing" applications.

Prominent companies, including ByteDance and Cambricon, signed a series of significant agreements valued at tens of billions, focusing on green intelligent computing centers and token factories.

Why has the national computing power industry turned its attention here? Part of the answer lies in this vast grassland.

Wind turbine blades turn steadily, each rotation generating 12 kilowatt-hours of green electricity. Instead of feeding into the public grid, this clean energy is transmitted via a dedicated 41-kilometer line directly to data centers located tens of kilometers away.

Inside the machine rooms of these centers, rows of GPU arrays operate around the clock, powered mainly by wind and solar energy.

Training large-scale AI models utilizing tens of thousands of GPUs can consume over 100 million kilowatt-hours annually. For instance, the Hohhot Intelligent Computing Center, operated by China Mobile, incurred electricity costs of approximately 290 million yuan in 2025, accounting for more than 70% of its total operating expenses. In the competition for computing power, electricity costs proved to be a decisive factor. China's strategic response includes the "East Data West Computing" project, which redirects the high computing demand from eastern regions to resource-rich western areas. The Horinger data center cluster in Hohhot is among the country's top ten clusters.

The city is endowed with a combination of nearly optimal conditions for the selection of data center locations. With an average annual temperature of only 7?C and over 200 days per year suitable for direct outdoor air cooling, the center achieves more than 20% savings in cooling costs. At an electricity price of about 0.36 yuan per kilowatt-hour, a large-scale GPU cluster can save around 50 million yuan annually on power expenses. Currently, Hohhot's total computing capacity reaches 150,000 P, with green electricity usage exceeding 80%.

However, the challenge lies in the "green" aspect itself.

Wind and solar power fluctuate with weather, while computing loads require an uninterrupted 24/7 power supply.

The local solution is an innovative "computing-electricity synergy" mechanism. China Huadian Corporation constructs a 360,000-kilowatt integrated wind-solar-storage power station, comprising 300,000 kilowatts of wind, 60,000 kilowatts of photovoltaic power, and energy storage capable of continuous four-hour regulation. A collaborative control platform collects data on wind output, solar irradiance, storage status, and computing load at millisecond intervals to dynamically allocate power: when green energy is abundant, storage systems charge and delay-tolerant computing tasks are prioritized; when green energy is limited, storage discharges, the public grid supplements power, and flexible tasks are deferred. This approach transforms power generation and consumption from a unidirectional supply model to a bidirectional interactive system.

On the consumption side, initiatives to minimize waste are also in progress. The Hohhot data center operated by China Mobile recovers waste heat from nearby power plants to provide cooling for machine rooms. The B02 machine hall has improved its Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) from 1.315 to 1.209, resulting in annual electricity savings of 560,000 kilowatt-hours since commencing operations. Upon full operation of two machine halls, annual savings are projected to reach 10 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and 150,000 tons of water.

Today, 62 computing center projects have clustered here, including data centers of China's three major telecom operators, 16 financial institutions, and computing nodes from Huawei, ByteDance, Kuaishou, and others. Upstream, 45 manufacturing enterprises produce servers, cabinets, and sensors locally. According to the recently published three-year action plan, by 2028, Hohhot aims to establish 10 token factories capable of producing 20 trillion tokens daily. At that time, customers will procure not only cabinets and bandwidth but also directly accessible intelligent services customized to their requirements.

The prairie winds remain constant, as does the city's commitment to converting every kilowatt-hour of green electricity into stable and reliable computing power.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #Hohhot

MONACO, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The superyacht world embraces a wide range of professions, expertise and specialist skills. Naval architecture, design, construction, management, sales, chartering, maritime law and insurance are just some of the fields that comprise an international industry that is constantly evolving.

From 16 September to 14 November 2026, Yacht Club de Monaco's La Belle Classe Academy training centre offers an opportunity to explore the inner workings of this sector with its Yachting Masterclass. The nine-week online programme is led by experts from the various professions that make up this international ecosystem.

A training course tailored to today's challenges

As the course is online, it means participants from all over the world can complete the Yachting Masterclass while continuing to work. Over the nine weeks, sessions alternate between theory, real-world insights and discussions with professionals involved in the various superyacht professions. On completion, participants receive a certificate of attendance, presented at a ceremony held at the Yacht Club de Monaco.

An interdisciplinary view of the industry

It is not just about gaining knowledge, as the Yachting Masterclass delivers an interdisciplinary view of the industry and how it operates. It is an open door to understanding the roles and interactions between different players and the operational realities behind the whole life cycle of a superyacht.

Among others, the programme is aimed at:

Working professionals keen to expand their skillset in the yachting sector;

Crew members planning to transition to shore-based jobs;

Students and recent graduates interested in careers in yachting;

Professionals in banking, law, insurance or a Family Office working with an international clientele;

Members of the Yacht Club de Monaco and the Cluster Yachting Monaco.

Training, sharing knowledge and promoting yachting professions

The programme reflects the mission of La Belle Classe Academy, which was set up in 2015 by the YCM to support the evolution of yachting professions. Catering to owners, crew members, industry professionals, aspiring yacht enthusiasts and students, this training centre combines technical courses with instruction on the art of service, etiquette and onboard protocol.

Through a range of programmes tailored to different profiles and levels of experience, La Belle Classe Academy focuses on sharing expertise and experience, and building bridges between professions as part of its role in professionalising the sector.

This approach is also at the fore of the YCM Yachting Student Fair, organised as part of the Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting Rendezvous (13-16 March 2027) to encourage young people to explore yachting and maritime careers. The event aims to connect the next generation with industry professionals and boost the appeal of these professions. The inaugural edition in 2026 attracted over 800 students.

Another event that is part of YCM's commitment to showcasing yachting professions, through its La Belle Classe Academy, is the YCM Superyacht Chef Competition organised with Bluewater, the 8th edition of which is on 1st April 2027. The contest puts the spotlight on an essential aspect of life on board where gastronomy, creativity and an ability to meet the high expectations of owners and their guests play a central role.

Training, transmission and promotion of the sector's professions share one goal: to support yachting's evolution and help raise standards long-term in line with the collective 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting' approach championed by the Yacht Club de Monaco.

Practical info on the Yachting Masterclass

Dates: 16 September to 14 November 2026

Organisation:

Wednesday 5.00pm to 7.00pm

Saturday 10.00am to 1.00pm

Format:

Live online

Fees:

Full programme: EUR3,200 incl. VAT

Individual module: EUR259 incl. VAT

Preferential rates are available for members of Yacht Club de Monaco, the Cluster Yachting Monaco and Young Professionals in Yachting (YPY), as well as for IUM students and companies registering several employees.

Information and registration

La Belle Classe Academy: assistante.academy@yacht-club-monaco.mc |

+377 93 10 70 08

Yachting Masterclass: https://labelleclasseacademy.com/yachting-masterclassmodule/yachting-masterclass/

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

Updated guide covers pricing across more than 120 aircraft and 323 charter routes, giving travelers a clearer view of private jet charter costs worldwide

ASHBURN, Va., Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Paramount Business Jets, a worldwide private aviation company specializing in on-demand private jet charter and transparent Jet Card memberships, today announced a major expansion of its Private Jet Rental Cost Guide.

The updated guide features current market pricing for more than 120 popular business aircraft, charter costs across 323 frequently requested routes, nine aircraft categories, and an interactive Private Jet Cost Calculator. It's designed to help business executives, corporate flight departments, families, and first-time charter clients understand how aircraft selection, mission requirements, and market conditions influence charter costs.

Route data spans some of the world's busiest private aviation markets, with pricing available for city pairs such as New York?London, London?Dubai and Macau?Hong Kong, among hundreds of others reflected in the guide.

Paramount Business Jets' updated 2026 hourly rates across nine aircraft categories. Rates are market estimates and vary by mission; figures exclude Fe

"Private aviation should be easier to understand," said Richard Zaher, Founder and CEO of Paramount Business Jets. "Since founding Paramount Business Jets in 2005, we've believed our responsibility extends beyond arranging flights. Our role is to educate, advocate and help clients navigate an increasingly complex marketplace with confidence."

A More Complete View of Charter Costs

Rather than focusing only on hourly rates, the guide explains the operational, regulatory, and market factors that shape total flight cost, including taxes, fees, aircraft positioning, and seasonal demand, alongside updated 2026 hourly rates across nine aircraft categories.

"The greatest value an aviation advisor provides isn't access to aircraft, it's judgment," Zaher said. "Every mission presents a unique combination of operational, safety and logistical considerations. Our responsibility is to evaluate those variables objectively and recommend the aircraft that best serves the mission."

That same philosophy shaped the company's transparent Jet Card pricing model, introduced in 2010 and publicly announced in 2014, which discloses both the operator's price and Paramount Business Jets' separately itemized management fee.

Explore the updated Private Jet Rental Cost Guide, including the interactive Private Jet Cost Calculator, at paramountbusinessjets.com/private-jet-rental-cost.

About Paramount Business Jets

Founded in 2005, Paramount Business Jets is a private aviation company providing worldwide on-demand private jet charter, transparent Jet Card memberships, and customized aviation solutions. Headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia, the company provides access to more than 4,000 safety-vetted aircraft worldwide, supported by a dedicated aviation advisor, independent safety screening, and 24/7 service for every trip.

For more information, visit paramountbusinessjets.com.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/30619593-e8d4-42ae-a454-bdefc0e27328

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Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Singapore-headquartered GFTN convene more than 6,000 participants from 74 countries in Tashkent to accelerate investment, financial innovation and regional connectivity

TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 August 2026 - Uzbekistan today put its financial reform agenda before a global audience, bringing together policymakers, regulators, investors and founders to advance its ambition to become a gateway for capital, technology and financial connectivity across Central Asia.

The Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum 2026, convened by the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Singapore-headquartered Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), and co-hosted by Ant International, brings together more than 6,000 participants from 74 countries, almost 200 speakers and more than 25 investors representing US$4 billion in assets under management.

Held at CAEx on 24?25 August, the Forum moves to the Islamic Civilisation Centre on 26 August for The Azimuth, a dedicated programme on Islamic finance and entrepreneurship.

Uzbekistan's Reform Push Opens the Door to Global Investment

Opening the Forum, H.E. Jamshid Kuchkarov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, set out the next phase of the country's economic transformation: converting a decade of reform into deeper markets, greater private-sector participation and long-term investment.

"Over the past 10 years, as a result of structural reforms, our economy has demonstrated strong and steady growth. During this period, the size of our economy has tripled. Going forward, we will work to achieve investment-grade credit ratings, complete accession to the World Trade Organization, further reduce the state's presence in the economy, and continue market-oriented reform. This effort will strengthen the role of the private sector, deepen Uzbekistan's integration into the global economy and create greater opportunities for domestic and international investors," said H.E. Jamshid Kuchkarov.

Uzbekistan enters the Forum with strong economic and regulatory momentum. GDP grew 8.5% in the first half of 2026, foreign investment reached US$8.3 billion in the first quarter, and Moody's upgraded the sovereign rating to Ba2 in June. Presidential Decree PQ-359 and the National FinTech Strategy are advancing open banking, digital payments and financial innovation, with a target of US$1 billion in fintech investment by 2030. Digital-payment adoption rose from 39% in 2021 to 71% in 2025.

In his opening address, The Silk Road Initiative: Turning a Socio-Economic Heritage into Central Asia's Financial Innovation Corridor, H.E. Timur Ishmetov, Governor, Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, framed the country's fintech strategy through five building blocks drawn from the region's intellectual and commercial heritage: Al-Jabr, restoring what is missing; Al-Muqabala, balancing the elements of a sustainable financial ecosystem; Zarkaynar, creating a marketplace where innovation meets opportunity; Saroy, building shared financial infrastructure; and Madrassa, developing talent.

With 57% of payments now cashless, SMEs accounting for more than half the economy and a target of 5,000 young people trained in financial technology by 2030, the Central Bank is translating these principles into its regulatory sandbox, open-banking APIs, payments infrastructure and innovation framework.

"Scale alone is not sufficient. The objective must be to translate technological adoption and transaction growth into sustainable economic value, competition and broader financial development, while maintaining financial stability, resilience and public trust," Governor Ishmetov said.

Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO, Global Finance & Technology Network added:.

"Uzbekistan has the ingredients to become Central Asia's digital finance gateway: strong political commitment, bold regulatory reform, growing digital adoption and a clear ambition to attract international investment. The next step is to turn those foundations into investment, partnerships and financial corridors that connect Central Asia to the world. That is what the Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum is designed to accelerate."

That opportunity comes as fintech moves firmly into the global financial mainstream. In 2025, global fintech revenues reached US$504 billion, growing 22% and more than four times faster than incumbent financial institutions, while 74% of the largest public fintechs were profitable, according to the 2026 Global Fintech Report by BCG and FT Partners.

For Central Asia, the opportunity is to capture more of that growth by combining financial innovation, inclusion and regional connectivity with the regulatory and institutional foundations required to attract long-term capital.

From Domestic Reform to a Financial Silk Road

The Forum is examining how Uzbekistan's domestic transformation can support a more connected Central Asian financial system, with priorities spanning investable markets, interoperable payments, digital identity, open APIs, tokenisation, digital money, cross-border settlement and long-term institutional capital.

Central Asia's relatively young financial infrastructure creates an opportunity to build interoperable systems without inheriting all the constraints of legacy architecture. The next step is moving from domestic digitalisation to cross-border connectivity, with faster settlement, lower remittance costs and infrastructure capable of connecting national financial systems.

The wider ambition is to recast the historic Silk Road for the digital economy, extending its role from the movement of goods to the movement of money, capital and data between Central Asia and markets across the Middle East, China, South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Greater connectivity, however, will require more than technology. Predictable regulation, deeper markets, institutional capital, cybersecurity and trusted governance will determine whether new payment rails, AI, tokenisation and digital assets can scale safely across borders.

New Islamic Banking Law Opens Uzbekistan to US$6 Trillion Market

Uzbekistan's new Islamic banking law, effective from June 2026, creates the country's first legal framework for Shariah-compliant banking and opens a potential channel to a global Islamic finance market approaching US$6 trillion in assets.

The Forum culminates on 26 August with The Azimuth at the Islamic Civilisation Centre, focused on the standards, Shariah governance, liquidity, digital infrastructure and cross-border capital required to scale the sector. The opportunity extends beyond domestic Islamic banking to positioning Uzbekistan as a bridge between Central Asia and Islamic finance markets across the Gulf, T?rkiye, South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Governor Ishmetov issued a direct invitation to international investors and innovators: "Uzbekistan is open to investment, technology, expertise and long-term partnership. Build here. Test new solutions here. Invest here. Develop talent here. With the right partnerships, Central Asia can become a more connected, competitive and internationally integrated financial region."

About the Silk Road Finance & Technology Forum

The inaugural Silk Road Finance and Technology Forum takes place in Tashkent from 24 to 26 August 2026, co-hosted by the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN). The Forum connects policymakers, regulators, investors and founders to shape Central Asia's next financial corridor across five strategic themes: digital payments and infrastructure, Islamic finance and new corridors, AI and emerging technology, tokenisation and digital assets, and cross-border finance and regulation.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/119613917

Website: silkroadfinancetechnologyforum.com

About the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN)

The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) is a Singapore-headquartered not-for-profit organisation established in 2024. With offices in Tokyo, Berlin, and India, GFTN's mission is to bridge policy, capital, and technology to build financial systems that are resilient, efficient, and inclusive. GFTN Services hosts global forums across five continents, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers from over 130 countries. It offers policy advice to governments to promote financial technology innovation, inclusion, and capacity building. GFTN Capital will be a venture capital firm investing in growth-stage FinTechs globally. For more information, please visit www.gftn.co.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #GFTN

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) has been named "Best Venue More Than 10,000 sqm" at the Middle East Event Awards 2026, further cementing its position as one of the region's leading destinations for exhibitions, conferences, conventions, and major events.

The prestigious award was announced during the Middle East Event Awards ceremony, held on 20 August at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, on the sidelines of the Middle East Event Show, bringing together leading professionals, organisations, and venues from across the Middle East's business events and live events industry.

EWB secured the award following a highly competitive selection process, emerging as the winner ahead of leading regional venues.

The award was received on behalf of EWB by Huda Al Shamlan, Director of Marketing, Communications and Partnerships at EWB, and Ali Hasan, Senior Business Development Manager - New Exhibitions at EWB.

On this occasion, HE Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Chairperson of Exhibition World Bahrain, stated: "Winning the (Best Venue More Than 10,000 sqm) award at the Middle East Event Awards is a tremendous achievement for EWB and a proud moment for us. This recognition reflects the quality, scale, and versatility of our venue, world-class experiences for organisers, exhibitors, delegates, and visitors."

Buhiji added: "Receiving this award demonstrates the growing recognition of EWB as a leading regional MICE destination and reinforces Bahrain's position as a competitive and attractive host for major international exhibitions, conferences, and events. We remain committed to raising the bar and creating greater value for our clients and the wider business events industry."

The Middel East's Event Awards are among the region's prominent recognitions for excellence across the events industry, celebrating outstanding achievements by venues, organisers, agencies, suppliers, and event professionals.

The latest accolade adds to EWB's growing collection of international and regional industry recognition, including being named "World's Leading New Exhibition and Convention Centre 2023", "Middle East's Leading Large-Scale Wedding Venue 2024", "World's Leading Large-Scale Wedding Venue 2025", "World's Best MICE Event Venue 2025", "Middle East's Best MICE Event Venue 2025", "Bahrain's Best Convention Centre 2025".

About Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB)

Inaugurated in November 2022 and owned by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) is the World's Leading New Exhibition and Convention for 2023, the Middle East's Leading Large-Scale Wedding Venue 2024 and the newest MICE venue in the Middle East. The venue offers a wide range and variety of leasable spaces for all types of events of all sizes, from large conventions and exhibitions to conferences and meetings, live entertainment performances, large weddings, galas, celebrations, corporate functions and more.

In addition to 10 large Exhibition Halls, EWB's Convention Centre features a Grand Hall and an adjacent Meeting Hub of 19 meeting rooms of varying sizes. Its extensive capacity enables it to host several events and exhibitions simultaneously.

For more information about EWB and its state-of-the-art features and facilities, please visit: https://www.ewbahrain.com/

For Inquiries:

Mohammed Aljayousi

Communications Special Projects Advisor

Mobile: +973 39761177

Email: maljayousi@ewbahrain.com

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 August 2026 - The 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games opened yesterday at Beijing's National Speed Skating Oval, also known as the "Ice Ribbon." As another real-world validation of 5G Capital in robotics and embodied AI, China Unicom Beijing and Huawei have built an integrated digital foundation powered by a 5G-A GigaUplink network, supporting intelligent event operations, robot competition, and spectator experiences.

The deployment also lays a connectivity foundation for humanoid robots to move beyond the arena and into everyday life. Across Beijing, 5G Capital's region-wide GigaUplink network is providing ubiquitous, secure, and reliable connectivity for a growing range of cultural tourism, embodied AI, and Mobile AI applications and events.

This year's Games feature major upgrades in both scale and competition design. A total of 1,301 competitions across 51 events will see 2,056 humanoid robots from 666 teams worldwide take part. The number of events has nearly doubled from 26 in the inaugural Games to 51 this year, with new high-intensity head-to-head events such as table tennis and kickboxing. Scenario-based competitions have also expanded into real-world settings including industrial production, hotels, homes, and logistics, while dance events place greater emphasis on synchronized movement across multiple robots. More autonomous competition formats and significantly higher task complexity are placing stringent demands on networks for high-capacity uplink, millisecond-level responsiveness, and high reliability, supporting real-time robot telemetry, precise control signaling, and multi-robot coordination.

To meet these requirements, China Unicom Beijing and Huawei deployed a dedicated 100 MHz network, complemented by a 300 MHz LampSite ultra-wideband indoor network, to support real-time robot telemetry and precise signaling exchange. A dedicated 5QI 7 slice combined with carrier isolation keeps end-to-end latency for humanoid robots within 30 milliseconds, supporting millisecond-level decision-making and response while helping ensure the precision of multi-robot coordination, obstacle avoidance, and fine-motion control.

By further integrating the dedicated network with BeiDou RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning, the solution delivers decimeter- to sub-decimeter-level positioning accuracy, supporting autonomous navigation, agile obstacle avoidance, and precision racing in complex environments. On-site tests recorded a peak uplink speed of 1 Gbps, with average latency below 30 milliseconds.

While safeguarding mission-critical connectivity for the robots, China Unicom has also made the network experience of on-site spectators a priority. To address the high-density, heavy-traffic demands of large crowds, network resources and service assurance policies are dynamically adjusted according to different phases and areas of the event, including admission, waiting, competition, and departure. Core services such as instant messaging, ticket inquiries, QR-code admission, and mobile payments are prioritized for stable access, while the network also accommodates data-intensive services such as photo uploads, short-video sharing, and live streaming. This allows spectators to stay connected, interact seamlessly, and share highlights in real time even during peak traffic periods.

On the operations side, China Unicom has also developed China's first embodied AI robot management platform designed for event scenarios. Through a unique network ID assigned to each robot, event staff can monitor its location within the venue, competition status, and operational metrics in real time, creating a closed-loop operations and management system.

Yang Lifan, Deputy General Manager of China Unicom Beijing, said: "This network deployment is not only a real-world test of China Unicom's network capabilities; it will also help us accumulate valuable network assurance experience for the large-scale deployment of embodied AI. China Unicom will continue to build on the experience gained through the 5G Capital initiative and turn technological innovation into tangible and replicable network capabilities for the Mobile AI era. In doing so, we aim to support industrial innovation and help bring Chinese solutions to the world with China Unicom's expertise."

David Li, President of Huawei's Wireless TDD Product Line, said: "The 2nd World Humanoid Robot Games have provided a compelling real-world validation of the 5G-A 100 MHz GigaUplink network based on 3.5 GHz 2CC + 2.1 GHz SUL for embodied AI scenarios. Looking ahead, Huawei will continue to work with China Unicom Beijing to strengthen uplink capabilities and advance spectrum coordination, building multidimensional network capabilities with tiered and differentiated service assurance for multimodal device-to-cloud transmission. This will enable real-time interaction and precise control across a wide range of embodied AI scenarios.

"Networks are about more than speed. Low latency, high reliability, and ubiquitous coverage are equally important. Building on these capabilities, we will further advance the 5G Capital initiative, continue to expand the boundaries of network performance, and lay a solid foundation for the Mobile AI era, working with industry partners to enable an intelligent future."

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #Huawei #WorldHumanoidRobotGames

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 August 2026 - ECOVACS Robotics, a global leader in home service robotics, brought its "Created for Ease" philosophy to life at Singapore Pop Toy Show (PTS) 2026 through an unexpected collaboration with POP MART.

Under the theme "Unbox the Ease," ECOVACS invited visitors to discover how smart home robotics can transform everyday living, turning daily routines into moments of surprise, delight and effortless convenience.

Held from 21 to 23 August at MBS Expo & Convention Centre, the activation showcased ECOVACS' latest innovations, DEEBOT T90 PRO OMNI and WINBOT mini 2, alongside interactive experiences inspired by POP MART's culture of discovery and collectability.

"Created for Ease" - A Philosophy Nearly Two Decades in the Making

ECOVACS has spent nearly two decades building technologies that quietly takes care of everyday chores. For ECOVACS, "Unbox the Ease" extends beyond the excitement of opening a collectible. It reflects the moment of discovery when people realise how much time, effort and mental load can be removed through intelligent automation.

Much like the anticipation that comes with revealing a new POP MART character, visitors were invited to uncover something equally unexpected: a smarter, easier way to experience everyday living. Through hands-on product demonstrations and interactive installations, ECOVACS transformed its technology from a product showcase into an experience of discovery.

When Smart Living Meets Pop Culture

By partnering with POP MART, ECOVACS connected with a new generation of consumers through a shared spirit of curiosity, creativity and discovery. While POP MART inspires excitement through collectible characters, ECOVACS creates delight and ease through automated home robotics. Together, the collaboration highlighted how innovation can be both functional and emotionally engaging.

After all, it's only when DEEBOT and WINBOT are quietly taking care of the floors and windows that people gain back the time to indulge in what they love, whether that's unboxing the latest blind box or hunting down a new POP MART figure.

As home robotics become an increasingly natural part of modern lifestyles, ECOVACS continues to push the boundaries of innovation, helping consumers spend less time on chores and more time on what matters most.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Selected instruments are tradable from 5:25pm until 5:00am JST

TOKYO, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FOREX.com today announced the launch of Japan Stock CFDs and Japan Stock CFD Knock-Out Options. Operated by StoneX Securities Co., Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of StoneX Group Inc (NASDAQ: SNEX)), FOREX.com will be the first and only trading platform in Japan to offer trading of these products overnight until 5.00am JST1.

This first-in-the-market offering will provide investors with greater flexibility and agility to respond to corporate disclosures, overseas market movements, and other developments that occur outside regular Japanese market hours.

Johan Gade, Head of Retail - Japan, commented: "Our focus is on giving clients greater flexibility to navigate markets on their terms. By extending trading hours for selected Japan Stock CFDs and Knock-Out Options, we are responding directly to the reality that market-moving information does not stop when the domestic equity market closes.

This launch reflects our customer-centric approach by providing clients with greater ability to respond to overseas market movements, corporate disclosures, and other developments as they happen, while continuing to expand the range and accessibility of the products we offer in Japan."

The tandem launch of the two products offers investors the optionality to choose between flexible CFD exposure and a Knock-Out Option structure, allowing them to define their maximum potential loss upfront depending on how they want to respond to market developments and manage risk.

Japan Stock CFDs provides clients the flexibility to take positions on price movements in selected Japanese equities without owning the underlying shares, whereas Japan Stock CFD Knock-Out Options provide an additional way for clients to manage their exposure by incorporating a pre-set knock-out level, at which the position is automatically closed if that level is reached.

In principle, the maximum loss is limited to the option premium paid at the outset of the transaction, although actual execution may differ from expectations during periods of sudden market movement, reduced liquidity, or other market conditions. Both products reference Japanese equities as the underlying assets. While Japan Stock CFD trading is offered with zero commission, spreads, financing costs, dividend adjustments and other costs or adjustments may apply.

Selected Instruments Available for Overnight Trading

Advantest

Tokyo Electron

Kioxia

Fujikura

Hitachi

Sony Group

Canon

Kyocera

NTT

SoftBank Group

Toyota Motor

Honda Motor

Nissan Motor

Bridgestone

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group

Mizuho Financial Group

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group

ORIX

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Kawasaki Heavy Industries

Mitsubishi Corporation

Aeon

Nintendo

Central Japan Railway Company

Metaplanet

1Refers to an overnight trading service that makes selected CFD and stock Knock-Out Option instruments referencing individual Japanese listed equities tradable from 5:25pm until 5:00am. Based on StoneX Securities' research as of August 19, 2026, covering information published on the official websites of seven major domestic FX/CFD providers and major online securities firms in Japan. Stock index CFDs, physical equity PTS trading, margin trading, futures trading and foreign stock CFDs are excluded from the comparison.

About FOREX.com

FOREX.com is an online trading brand of StoneX Group, offered to traders in 180 countries worldwide. FOREX.com provides access to products including FX, FX Knock-Out Options, single-stock and stock index CFDs, and related Knock-Out Options, supported by StoneX Group's global trading infrastructure and technology.

About StoneX Securities Co., Ltd.

StoneX Securities Co., Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of StoneX Group, and is a securities company registered with the Financial Services Agency of Japan. For more detailed information, please visit our website: https://www.forex.com/jp

Financial Instruments Business Operator: Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Financial Instruments) No. 291

Address: 4-4-10 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Totan Muromachi Building 3F, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0022, Japan

Member Associations: Japan Securities Dealers Association, Financial Futures Association of Japan

About StoneX Group Inc.

StoneX Group Inc., through its subsidiaries, operates a global financial services network that connects companies, organizations, traders, and investors to the global market ecosystem through a unique blend of digital platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution services, high-touch service, and deep expertise. The company strives to be its clients' trusted partner, providing its network, products, and services to help them pursue business opportunities, manage market risks, make informed investment decisions, and improve their business performance.

A Fortune 50 company headquartered in New York City and listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ: SNEX), StoneX Group Inc. and its more than 5,400+ employees serve over 80,000+ commercial, institutional, and payments clients, as well as more than 260,000 retail accounts, across more than 80 offices on six continents. Further information is available at www.stonex.com.

Media inquiries:

media@stonex.com

SNEX-G

SYDNEY, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axi, a global online trading broker, today announces the launch of its refreshed brand identity, including a new website with a fully updated visual system designed to reflect the broker's position as a dedicated partner to traders across every market.

The refresh marks an evolution of Axi's identity, not a departure from it. The logo retains its recognised form, and the brand's signature red remains central to the new visual language. What has changed is the precision and cohesion with which every element comes together.

The new visual system introduces refined typography, a sharper and more modern design language, and a globally scalable character system that reflects the diversity of the markets and communities Axi serves. The updated website is the clearest expression of the new brand in action. The refresh will extend across Axi's full product ecosystem. The Axi app and client portal will carry the updated visual identity, giving traders a consistent brand experience across every platform they use.

Axi Select: a sharper look for a programme built on performance

Axi Select, Axi's capital allocation programme for qualifying traders, debuts a refreshed visual identity as part of the broader brand update. Designed for traders who are serious about their edge, Axi Select offers a structured six-stage progression model, giving participants a clear pathway to grow their trading capital. From the Seed stage through to professional-level funding of up to $1,000,000 of Axi's capital. With over 55,000 traders already on the programme, the refreshed look reflects the programme's ambition and the community it serves.

"A lot changed with this refresh, and that was intentional.", said Julie Sharova, Global Head of Marketing at Axi, "But our DNA stays - the logo, the elements that make us us. It was about making sure our DNA speaks to more people, in more places. We wanted to feel modern and relatable across different audiences - because we believe you can be globally consistent and locally connected at the same time."

Axi operates across multiple regions globally, serving retail and professional traders with access to forex, stocks, indices, and commodities. The brand refresh reflects the broker's continued investment in the trader experience, across every touchpoint, in every market.

About Axi

Axi is a global online trading broker providing retail and professional traders with access to forex, stocks, indices, and commodities. Through its trading platforms, educational resources, and market analysis tools, Axi helps traders navigate global financial markets with confidence.

Media enquiries: mediaenquiries@axi.com

The Axi Select program is only available to clients of AxiTrader LLC. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region. For more information, refer to Axi's Terms of Service. Standard trading fees and minimum deposit apply.

Jetex Sofia is anticipated to welcome its first guests in Q4 2026.

Dubai, Aug. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jetex, the world's leading luxury lifestyle brand, and SOF Connect have signed an agreement to develop and operate a VIP lounge at Vasil Levski Sofia Airport, the main international airport of Bulgaria and the sixth-largest international airport in Central and Eastern Europe.

The airport plays a critical role in supporting economic growth, employment and international connectivity across Bulgaria and the wider region.

Located in the western wing of Terminal 1, Jetex Sofia will feature a private entrance and a collection of elegantly designed lounges, bringing the brand's award-winning hospitality and signature service to the Bulgarian capital.

Building on Jetex's continued global expansion, Jetex Sofia will offer a suite of bespoke services for both private aviation guests and CIP passengers travelling on commercial airlines. Jetex Sofia is expected to welcome more than 30,000 passengers in 2027, with commercial airline passengers enjoying a seamless experience as if flying private.

"Sofia has been evolving into a leading aviation hub in Eastern Europe, with plans to increase capacity from eight to 20 million passengers annually. We are pleased to bring the Jetex brand to this growing market as we continue to expand our global network," said Mr. Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex.

"Bringing Jetex to Vasil Levski Sofia Airport is another important step in our vision to transform Sofia into a modern, five-star regional hub. This partnership will introduce a new level of premium aviation services to Bulgaria, combining world-class hospitality with seamless passenger experiences.", said Jesus Caballero, CEO of SOF Connect.

Jetex operates a global network of more than 40 VIP terminals in key global destinations, including Paris, London, Istanbul, Milan, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Marrakech and Singapore. Jetex Sofia will reinforce the company's presence in Eastern Europe.

- END - 

About Jetex

An award-winning global leader in executive aviation, Jetex is recognized for delivering flexible, best-in-class trip support solutions to customers worldwide. Jetex provides exceptional private terminals, fixed-base operations, aircraft fueling, ground handling, and global trip planning. The company caters to both owners and operators of business jets for corporate, commercial, and personal air travel.

Press Enquiries

Oleg Kafarov

Vice President of Public Relations of Jetex

T: +971 4 212 4900

E: teamorange@jetex.com

Attachment

Jetex Announces Opening in Sofia

Oleg Kafarov

Jetex 

+971 4 212 4900

teamorange@jetex.com

From surging sports interest to last-minute purchase, Hong Kong users are eager for greater access to live entertainment experiences

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 August 2026 - With the excitement of football events and chart-topping concerts still reverberating across the city, Hong Kong is carrying the momentum into a vibrant summer of live entertainment.

Capturing the pulse of the moment, MoreTickets, Asia's No.1* live event ticket resale platform, releases Hong Kong's top international and local live events[1] scheduled for the summer period (July and August), alongside consumer insights into platform users' ticket-buying behavior.

Concerts Top Summer Searches as Sports Interest Surges

MoreTickets offers a wide range of live entertainment events worldwide, including popular concerts, sporting events, theatre performances and many more. Concerts continue to drive the summer entertainment landscape, capturing the majority of user interests. According to MoreTickets data1, the "Concert" category accounts for nearly two-thirds of all searches for live events or shows scheduled in July and August, reinforcing the city's demand for major headline acts. Interest in "Sports" category is also rising, with searches up about 150% year on year, reflecting heightened appetite for major matches and global tournament moments this summer.

Top 10 Most-Searched Live Events Scheduled for July and August[1]:

Local Hong Kong artists and city-based performances remain highly searched, representing more than 70% of total searches, led by Sammi Cheng and MC Cheung, two renowned local singers who appeal spans generations. Fueled by global FIFA World Cup fever, the Hong Kong Football Festival emerged as a breakout hit, ranking the third among the top searches.

Hong Kong Live Event Goers Made Last-Minute Purchase, and Rise in Single-Ticket Purchases

In Hong Kong, MoreTickets users are deciding closer to the event date. MoreTickets purchase data[2] shows that nearly two out of five ticket transactions were made within seven days of the show (37%), signaling a more spontaneous approach to live entertainment planning. This last-minute pattern is strongest in event categories such as pop music concerts (55%) and fan meetings (40%). Among those last-minute buyers, 60% of the purchases opted for single-seat tickets, underscoring strong eagerness to attend live shows, supported by the platform's real-time availability andtransparent pricing. MoreTickets helps users compare across the spectrum and secure the best fit with confidence.

Top 10 Events Purchased Within 7-Days of Event Date in May 2:

A Safer Way to Find Tickets with MoreTickets

As live entertainment demand becomes more immediate and fragmented, many consumers still struggle when trying to secure tickets through various channels. MoreTickets offers an alternative as a safer platform with real-time availability, transparent-priced listing, and a secure refund guarantee, making it a reliable choice for live-event goers. It operates with two core safeguards - vetted sellers supported by a verified ticket-sourcing network, and escrow-based payment held until successful event entry.

Trusted by millions of users, MoreTickets helps users secure ticket access safely, ensuring they can enjoy the live entertainment moments that matter.

[1] The analysis is based on H1 2026 search activity on MoreTickets platform, filtered to events scheduled in July and August 2026.

[2] The analysis is based on purchase activity during 1 to 31 May 2026 on MoreTickets platform.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hashtags: #MoreTickets

LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 August 2026 - On August 20, 2026, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, shone even brighter as it celebrated its renowned music festival.

The youthful Wuxi Symphony Orchestra, hailing from Wuxi, China's first UNESCO "City of Music," stepped into the heartland of classical music for the very first time under the leadership of Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Lin Daye. Inside a packed Gallus Hall at Cankarjev Dom, a profound and heartfelt musical dialogue unfolded between East and West.

Wuxi Symphony Orchestra Debuts at Ljubljana Festival: Sounds of the East Illuminate the Historic Central European City

As Slovenia's largest international summer music festival, its stage saw the name of Wuxi, China, etched upon it for the very first time this summer.

As the conductor's baton cut through the silence, this ancient Central European city warmly welcomed the debut of this Eastern orchestra with thunderous, prolonged applause.

The concert opened to the magnificent sounds of the Overture to Verdi's I vespri siciliani, with Lin Daye delivering the passion of Italian opera through his deeply expressive conducting. The orchestra then presented the festival debut of Fly To The Sky, an original symphonic suite by Li Shaosheng, whose embedded Eastern worldview resonated profoundly with the audience.

Suona virtuoso Zhang Qianyuan's performance in Questioning the Heavens was high-pitched and evocative, while tenor Xue Haoyin sang with heroic majesty in Heaven's Movement is Strength, driving the atmosphere to a climax.

In the second half, the orchestra performed Brahms' Symphony No. 1 in C minor. On a stage that has witnessed countless iconic performances of German-Austrian classics, the orchestra paid tribute to heritage through a precise yet impassioned interpretation. As the grand theme of the finale-symbolizing "through darkness into light"-echoed through the hall, the entire audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation, expressing high acclaim for the orchestra's flawless execution.

Darko Brlek, Artistic Director of the Ljubljana Festival, noted that this was the very first standing ovation given to a Chinese orchestra in the festival's history of over 70 editions.

As the opening stop of their 2026 European tour, the Ljubljana performance marked a striking debut and strong statement of cultural confidence. Showcasing Jiangnan's Wuxi to the world, these musical ambassadors from Lake Taihu foster cross‑cultural understanding through music, letting the world hear and understand China.

Hashtag: #WuxiSymphonyOrchestra

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