HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2026 - The annual Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum 2026 (DELF 2026), organised by Cyberport, will be held from 28 to 30 August 2026 at Cyberport. Under the theme "The Dreamatic Circus" DELF 2026 brings together creators, experts and industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is unleashing boundless creativity and redefining digital entertainment and content creation experiences.

Over the three-day event, more than 60 distinguished leaders and professionals from the technology, entertainment and creative sectors in Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and around the world will discuss how AI, immersive technologies and cutting-edge innovations are reshaping content creation and entertainment experiences. As AI continues to lower the barriers to creation, the content industry is rapidly evolving from content production toward the development of the IP economy.

This year's forum will focus on how AI empowers creators and enterprises to build globally competitive original intellectual properties (IPs), while examining how Cyberport's AI infrastructure, innovation ecosystem and international network can help transform innovative ideas into commercialised products, brands and globally recognised IPs, further strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leading digital entertainment and IP innovation hub in Asia.

Dr Rocky Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport, said: "Artificial intelligence is reshaping the cultural and creative industries, opening up unprecedented opportunities for creators, businesses and society. DELF 2026 brings together technology, creativity and business to foster cross-sector collaboration, advance original content creation, support IP incubation and accelerate commercial applications. Leveraging its AI infrastructure, industry ecosystem and global partnership network, Cyberport will continue to support innovative enterprises and original IP creators in seizing the opportunities of the AI era and expanding into international markets."

Today, Cyberport also hosted a special panel discussion titled "From AI Creation to Global IP: New Opportunities for the Entertainment Industry," bringing together industry experts to explore emerging opportunities in content creation, IP incubation and commercialisation in the age of AI. Moderated by Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, the discussion featured Mr Frankie Tam, Creative Director of Ultra Instinct Limited; Ms Polly Yeung, Chief Executive Officer of Gudo Inc.; and Ms Louie Cheng, Director of AI Education and OPC Entrepreneurship Incubation at FizzDragon. Panellists agreed that AI is not only significantly enhancing content creation efficiency but is also accelerating the transition of the content industry into the era of the IP economy, creating broader commercial and international development opportunities for Hong Kong's original IPs.

Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, said: "AI is unlocking unprecedented creative possibilities and injecting fresh momentum into Hong Kong's cultural and creative industries. As the industry enters a new phase of transformation, our focus should go beyond encouraging the creation of original content. We must also help promising IP develop long-term value, progressing from creative ideas to practical applications, and from individual works to recognised brands. Cyberport will continue to advance its public mission by connecting technology, creativity, talent and industry resources, empowering more local creators and enterprises to harness AI and turn Hong Kong's creativity into market-ready outcomes with international potential."

Over the three days, the forum will feature discussions on a wide range of topics, including AI collaboration, IP ecosystem development, the cultural and creative economy, smart cities, and future living. Speakers and representatives from organisations such as the University of Southern California (USC), The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, TVB Plus, GGWP, Mei Ah Entertainment, and Xi'an XR Film Industry Base will share insights on how AI is driving innovation, commercialisation and globalisation across the creative industries.

In addition, the interactive experience zone will feature four themed areas and more than 35 experiential activities, showcasing diverse digital entertainment and smart living scenarios powered by AI, immersive technologies and other advanced innovations.

The four themed zones include:

Arts & Culture ? featuring the immersive interactive art exhibition Another World: RADIANCE, Cyberport's original immersive cultural exhibition The Reveries of Ancient Egypt, Hong Kong's first XR 6D experience Harbour Dreams: Hong Kong XR Adventure, and the complete VR experience Versailles: The Lost Gardens of the Sun King VR experience.

Digital Entertainment - showcasing innovative projects including Nikopicto's interactive skateboard experience SkateAway Circus, TVB Music Money Monster System, and the FizzDragon AI Short Drama Creation Platform.

Smart Living & Business - featuring products such as Genesis One's 3D & AI Smart Fashion Platform, allowing visitors to experience how technology is transforming everyday life.

Robotics & Drones - presenting consumer robotics innovations such as combat robots and AI interactive smart vehicles developed by Jin Technology, alongside the "Charting the Future: eVTOL Inaugural Test Flight," highlighting the latest developments in interactive technology, the low-altitude economy and smart mobility.

To encourage visitors to explore the diverse digital entertainment experiences, DELF 2026 will launch a special "Play-to-Earn" campaign that combines gamification and rewards. Participants can collect stamps by completing designated tasks across the four themed zones and redeem gifts, while those who complete all challenges will have a chance to receive limited-edition merchandise from the Hong Kong original animation IP Another Worlds.

The event will also feature AI interactive workshops under the Cyberport Academy: DELF 2026 - AI Cultural & Creative Micro-Academy, where participants can learn creative skills such as concept art design and video production. In addition, the event will feature a special movie screening programme showcasing a Mars-themed AIGC sci-fi short drama from Singapore, selected works from the 3rd AI-assisted animation production support scheme, and 2nd HKUST AI Film Festival. Complemented by a live performance from popular K-pop band XODIAC and an indoor drone cirque, the programme will deliver an immersive experience that brings together artificial intelligence, digital entertainment and creative technology.

For more information about DELF 2026 and the speaker lineup, please visit: https://delf.cyberport.hk.

Please click HERE to download the high-resolution press photos.

Photo 1: Dr Rocky Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport (centre); Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport (third from right); Mr Terence Leung, Curator of the Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum at Cyberport (second from left); Mr Frankie Tam, Creative Director of Ultra Instinct Limited (second from right); Ms Polly Yeung, Chief Executive Officer of Gudo Inc. (first from right); and Ms Louie Cheng, Director of AI Education and OPC Entrepreneurship Incubation at FizzDragon (first from left), posed for a group photo at the DELF 2026 press conference, previewing the forum to be held at Cyberport from 28 to 30 August and highlighting a series of exciting upcoming programmes and activities.

Photo 2: Dr Rocky Cheng, Chief Executive Officer of Cyberport, said that AI is reshaping the cultural and creative industries, opening up unprecedented opportunities for creators, businesses and society. Leveraging its AI infrastructure, industry ecosystem and global partnership network, Cyberport will continue to support innovative enterprises and original IP creators in seizing the opportunities of the AI era and expanding into international markets.

Photo 3: Ir Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport (first from left), moderates the panel discussion "From AI Creation to Global IP: New Opportunities for the Entertainment Industry," joined by Mr Frankie Tam, Creative Director of Ultra Instinct Limited (second from left); Ms Polly Yeung, CEO of Gudo Inc. (second from right); and Ms Louie Cheng, Director of AI Education and OPC Entrepreneurship Incubation at FizzDragon (first from right), discussing how AI is reshaping content creation and driving the growth of the IP economy.

Photo 4: Mr Terence Leung, Project Curator, Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum, Cyberport, introduces the key highlights of DELF 2026 to the media.

Photo 5: Mr Terence Leung, Curator of the Digital Entertainment Leadership Forum at Cyberport (second from left); Mr Frankie Tam, Creative Director of Ultra Instinct Limited (first from right); Ms Polly Yeung, Chief Executive Officer of Gudo Inc. (first from left); and Ms Louie Cheng, Director of AI Education and OPC Entrepreneurship Incubation at FizzDragon (second from right), posed for a group photo with "Gudo" (centre), a character from Another World, at the DELF 2026 press conference.

Photo 6 - 11: Multiple booths on display at the DELF 2026 press conference, including Genesis ONE (photo 6), HTC HK Limited (photo 7), Jin Technology Limited (photo 8), Gudo Inc (photo 9), FizzDragon (photo 10) and Hong Kong Blind Union (photo 11).

About Hong Kong Cyberport

Wholly owned by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Cyberport is Hong Kong's digital tech hub and AI accelerator, with a vision to empower industry digitalisation and intelligent transformation, to promote digital economy and AI development, and to foster Hong Kong to be an international AI, innovation and technology (I&T) hub. Cyberport gathers over 2,400 companies, including 29 listed companies and 10 unicorns. One-third of onsite companies' founders come from 28 countries and regions, while Cyberport companies have expanded to over 35 global markets.

Cyberport, with Hong Kong's largest AI Supercomputing Centre and AI Lab as the engine, has been building the AI ecosystem with industry-leading AI companies and over 500 AI and data science start-ups. Through development of tech clusters, namely AI, data science, blockchain and cybersecurity, Cyberport empowers industries across smart city and government, banking and finance, digital entertainment, culture and tourism, healthcare, education and training, property management, construction, transportation and logistics, green environment and more, while hosting Hong Kong's largest FinTech community. Commissioned by the HKSAR Government, Cyberport has implemented proof-of-concept and sandbox schemes, subsidisation for digital tech adoption, industry tech training and start-up incubation, to drive technology R&D, translation and commercialisation, thus propelling digital transformation and intelligent upgrade across industry and society.

Also as "State-level Scientific and Technological Enterprise Incubator" and Hong Kong's key incubator, Cyberport supports entrepreneurs with funding and office space, extensive networks of enterprises, investors, technology corporations and professional services for business growth and expansion to Chinese Mainland and overseas markets, all-round facilitation for landing in Hong Kong, talent attraction and cultivation, ready as a launchpad to take start-ups in any stages of development to the next level.

For more information, please visit https://www.cyberport.hk/en.

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

Hashtags: #DELF #Cyberport

New executive experience center helps business and technology leaders explore secure, connected AI workflows built around real business priorities.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2026 - tridorian today announced the launch of its Gemini Enterprise Experience Center in Singapore, a new physical space designed to help enterprise leaders explore how AI can support measurable business outcomes across functions such as operations, customer service, sales, finance, and internal knowledge work.

Located in tridorian's Singapore office, the Gemini Enterprise Experience Center is intended to move the conversation beyond one-off AI experiments and feature-led demos. Instead, the center is designed around the practical questions that many organizations are now asking: which business problems should we solve first, how can AI fit securely into our existing systems and data, and what would an enterprise-ready path from idea to implementation look like.

Powered by Gemini Enterprise, including the Gemini Enterprise App and Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform, the center showcases how enterprises can securely connect business data, support multi-step workflows, and apply governance and oversight as AI use matures across the organization. Google Cloud describes Gemini Enterprise as an end-to-end system that combines secure connectors, workflow automation, governance, and identity controls, while the Agent Platform provides the foundation to build, scale, govern, and optimize enterprise-grade agents grounded in enterprise data.

Visitors to the center are guided through business-outcome narratives tailored to their role and priorities. A customer service leader might explore how AI can help reduce handling time while improving consistency. An operations leader might examine how multi-step workflows can reduce manual overhead. A CIO or risk leader might focus on governance, visibility, data controls, and the appropriate level of human involvement required for a production setting.

The center currently includes a live demo environment, which serves as a working example of how complex orchestration can be presented as a business workflow rather than a standalone chatbot interaction. In Google's current product language, that shift reflects a broader move from isolated AI tasks towards governed systems that can support complex, multi-step work processes.

Jimmy Jigmo, CEO of tridorian said, "Most AI demos look impressive. Very few connect to the work that actually matters. The Experience Center exists because enterprise leaders don't need more features. They need clarity on where AI fits, what governance looks like, and how to move from experiment to outcome."

The center also offers structured workshops that guide teams from mapping business priorities and exploring role-based use cases to planning next steps like a pilot or MVP. This practical format aligns with Google Cloud's Singapore agenda, focusing on immediate, real-world business results.

"Organizations today are moving beyond the initial excitement of AI and are now seeking solutions that are secure, governed, and fundamentally aligned with their operational realities," said Giri Babu Madathala, Head of SMB Partnerships, JAPAC, Google Cloud. "Security and governance are no longer optional; they are the foundation upon which effective AI must be built. tridorian's Gemini Enterprise Experience Center addresses this by providing customers with a sophisticated, hands-on environment to move from high-level experimentation to tangible results. It allows them to experience firsthand exactly how Gemini Enterprise can be integrated into their specific, real-world business workflows to drive meaningful operational efficiency"

For Singapore enterprises, this matters because AI adoption is increasingly judged not by novelty alone but by whether it can support productivity, decision quality, operational efficiency, and governance simultaneously. Singapore's own responsible AI guidance stresses explainability, transparency, fairness, and appropriate human oversight, while enterprise examples such as DBS show that measurable value comes from disciplined implementation rather than hype.

Evan Febrianto, CTO, tridorian added "This is a place for leadership teams to explore where AI can make a difference in their business, what the right controls look like, and how to move from experimentation to enterprise implementation with greater clarity."

About tridorian

tridorian is a Google Cloud-focused services and solutions company helping organizations modernize platforms, AI, data, and applications. As a people-centric and an outcome-focused Google Cloud Premier Partner, tridorian specializes in building secure, governed AI systems designed for production. With operations spanning eight countries and customers across 14, tridorian ensures that technology only succeeds when the people using it do.

Reach out at tridorian.com/contact to discuss your business challenges and schedule a visit to tridorian's Gemini Enterprise Experience Center.

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

Hashtags: #tridorian #technology #business #google #AI #cloud

https://tridorian.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tridorian/

Entered the Public Markets with - US$150 Million in Cash to Advance Fusion Development and Demonstrate Commercially Relevant Magnetized Target Fusion Capabilities

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- General Fusion Group Ltd. (NASDAQ: GFUZ) ("General Fusion" or the "Company"), a leader in the global race to commercialize fusion energy, will provide a business update today and highlight recent progress across its technology and commercial initiatives.

General Fusion became the first publicly listed fusion company following its July 2026 listing on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol "GFUZ."

Operational Highlights

Financial Position: Following completion of its business combination with Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III, General Fusion entered the public markets with approximately US$150 million in cash, inclusive of net transaction proceeds from the private placement and trust capital, to advance its practical fusion energy technology. The Company expects this capital to fund its Lawson Machine 26 ("LM26") program across several planned technical milestones through the end of 2028.

Technology: General Fusion recently announced significant progress toward its next major technical milestone with the LM26 program. The Company successfully demonstrated plasma heating to approximately 0.72 keV (8.4 million degrees Celsius) using compression of a plasma with a lithium liner, representing important progress toward its near-term objective of achieving 1 keV, followed by 10 keV and ultimately the Lawson criterion, the combination of plasma parameters that can produce net fusion energy in the plasma. 

Commercial: General Fusion announced a milestone-based framework agreement with Renexia S.p.A., a Toto Group company, to collaborate on the potential commercial deployment of the Company's fusion energy technology in Italy. This agreement represents another step in expanding relationships ahead of future commercialization.

Strategic Partnerships: General Fusion expanded its technology ecosystem through a collaboration with General Atomics Energy Group to advance plasma diagnostics capable of measuring temperatures exceeding 10 keV, equivalent to approximately 100 million degrees Celsius, during the second phase of the LM26 program.

"Our listing on Nasdaq marks an important milestone for General Fusion and the broader fusion industry," said Greg Twinney, Chief Executive Officer of General Fusion. "We believe fusion is approaching an important inflection point. Decades of advances in plasma physics, high-performance computing, advanced manufacturing, and digital controls have converged with rapidly growing global demand for clean, reliable baseload power, creating the conditions for fusion to transition from scientific promise toward commercial reality."

Twinney continued, "General Fusion was built for this moment. Our Magnetized Target Fusion approach is designed to deliver practical, clean, and abundant fusion energy through a simpler machine architecture that leverages existing industrial materials and supply chains while avoiding many of the cost and complexity challenges relied upon by other fusion technologies. Over more than two decades, we have systematically advanced that approach through real-world testing on increasingly sophisticated demonstration systems and published peer-reviewed scientific results. We believe this disciplined, engineering-driven strategy positions us to reduce technical risk while advancing toward the commercialization of practical fusion energy."

Twinney added, "We recently announced meaningful progress toward our next major technical milestone with LM26, expanded our commercial ecosystem through our framework agreement with Renexia, strengthened our technology partnerships via our collaboration with General Atomics, and entered the public markets with approximately US$150 million to fund our LM26 program through several key technical milestones by the end of 2028."

Twinney concluded, "We believe the industry's next chapter will be defined by disciplined technical and commercial execution. Our priorities are clear: continue achieving measurable technical milestones, expand our commercial partnerships, strengthen our supply chain capabilities, and build the foundation for the deployment of our first-of-a-kind fusion plant by approximately 2035. We look forward to demonstrating our progress to shareholders as we execute against that roadmap."

Looking Ahead

General Fusion remains focused on executing its staged commercialization roadmap. Near-term priorities include:

Achieve the 1 keV plasma electron temperature milestone.

Advance toward 10 keV and ultimately the Lawson criterion, supporting the Company's objective of demonstrating commercially relevant fusion conditions.

Expand commercial, supply chain development, and strategic partnerships across energy, industrial, engineering, and technology ecosystems.

Enable the successful siting of future demonstration and commercial-scale fusion energy systems that support technical success, commercial growth, and long-term scalability.

Webcast

A live webcast of the call can be accessed by visiting the Events & Presentations page of General Fusion's investor relations website. Participants who wish to join by phone and ask questions during the Q&A may register here to receive dial-in details and a unique PIN.

A replay of the webcast will be available for 12 months on the Events & Presentations page of General Fusion's investor relations website.

About General Fusion

General Fusion (NASDAQ: GFUZ) is pursuing a practical approach to commercial fusion energy and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. The Company was established in 2002 and has been funded by global investors including leading energy venture capital firms, industry leaders, and technology pioneers. Learn more at www.generalfusion.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

You can contact General Fusion's Investor Relations team by email at: investors@generalfusion.com.

If you are based in North America, you may also leave a toll-free voicemail at +1 (833) 717-1519. Callers outside North America can reach us at +1 (236) 253-6968. 

Media Relations Contact:

media@generalfusion.com

1-866-904-0995

CHICAGO, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amlan International, the animal health business of Oil-Dri Corporation of America, will serve as the Technical Symposium Sponsor at the 2026 Arkansas Nutrition Conference in Little Rock,  Arkansas. The Amlan-sponsored symposium will take place Tuesday, August 25, from 1:00-5:00 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel in Little Rock, bringing together leading experts to share insights on emerging research, industry challenges and trends shaping animal protein production.

The Arkansas Nutrition Conference is an annual educational event that brings together national and international technical experts, researchers and industry leaders to discuss current topics, research and emerging trends in poultry and animal nutrition. Through its sponsorship of this year's Technical Symposium, Amlan will provide attendees with perspectives spanning animal health and intestinal integrity, gut-brain science, global grain and animal protein markets, and mycotoxin surveillance.

"We are proud to sponsor the Technical Symposium and bring together experts representing a diverse range of disciplines that influence animal health and production," said Heath Wessels, Vice President of Sales for North America at Amlan International. "The challenges facing animal protein producers are increasingly complex, and this symposium provides an opportunity to explore the science, market dynamics and emerging trends that can help our industry continue to move forward."

Dan Jaffee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Oil-Dri Corporation of America., will open the symposium with welcome remarks. The technical program will then feature:

Dr. Diego V. Bohorquez, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke Institute for Brain Sciences - Deciphering Visceral Instincts. Dr. Bohorquez is internationally recognized for his research into the gut-brain axis and the communication between the digestive system and the brain.

Dr. Aldo Rossi, Director of Veterinary Services, Amlan International - Holistic Management Strategies to Support Intestinal Integrity. Dr. Rossi will draw on more than three decades of experience across genetics, veterinary medicine and gut health innovation to explore strategies for supporting intestinal integrity in animal production.

Pedro Dejneka, Partner, MD Commodities - Navigating the Geopolitics of Grain and Animal Protein. Dejneka will provide a global market perspective on the forces influencing grain, oilseed and cotton markets.

Dave Taysom, President, Dairyland Laboratories, Inc. - Mycotoxin Surveillance: Multi-Year Trends, Co-Contamination, and Advances in Detection. Taysom will discuss mycotoxin trends and advances in testing and detection to help producers and nutritionists make informed decisions for animal health and performance.

Together, the speakers bring expertise spanning neuroscience, veterinary medicine, global commodities and agricultural testing, providing attendees with a broad view of the factors influencing today's animal protein industry.

Following the conclusion of the technical program at 5:00 p.m., Amlan will host a cocktail reception for symposium attendees, providing an opportunity to continue conversations with speakers, industry colleagues, and the Amlan team. Attendees will also have the opportunity to connect with Amlan representatives and learn more about the company's mineral-based feed additive solutions for the U.S. market, including Sorbiam and Ambio, and how they can help address key challenges in animal health and production.

For additional information about the Technical Symposium presentations and to register for the Arkansas Nutrition Conference, visit the event registration page.

About Amlan International

Amlan is the animal health business of Oil-Dri Corporation of America, a leading global manufacturer and marketer of sorbent minerals. Leveraging over 80 years of expertise in mineral science, Oil-Dri Corporation of America, doing business as "Amlan International," is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ODC). Amlan International sells feed additives worldwide. Product availability may vary by country; associated claims do not constitute medical claims and may differ based on government requirements.

Contact:

Reagan Culbertson, Vice President of Strategic Marketing, B2B

Reagan.culbertson@amlan.com

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Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

Accomplished Healthcare, Nonprofit and Public Affairs Executive to Advance Countdown's Mission to Accelerate Mitochondrial Science and Medicine

ATLANTA, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Countdown, the global nonprofit accelerating mitochondrial science and medicine to transform the future of human health, today announced the appointment of Julie Teer as Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2026.

A nationally recognized healthcare, nonprofit, and public affairs executive, Teer will lead Countdown's strategy, fundraising, partnerships, operations, and enterprise growth as the organization expands its leadership in mitochondrial science and medicine and its impact across human health.

Founded by entrepreneur, advocate, and health innovator Mitzi Solomon, Countdown was created to accelerate scientific discovery, advance public awareness, and bring cellular energy to the center of human health. Countdown has funded groundbreaking mitochondrial research, assembled a world-class Scientific and Medical Advisory Board and Board of Directors, and built a growing community committed to advancing mitochondrial science and medicine.

Teer's appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Countdown. Amid growing interest in longevity, disease prevention, healthy aging, and human performance, cellular health and mitochondrial function are emerging as foundational conversations in medicine and wellness. Through research funding, education, public awareness, and strategic partnerships, Countdown is leading this movement and accelerating scientific discoveries that will transform the future of human health.

With more than two decades of leadership experience across healthcare, philanthropy, public affairs, and nonprofit organizations, Teer is nationally recognized for her ability to build and transform mission-driven organizations, align stakeholders around bold vision, and scale impact through strategic growth, board development, fundraising, advocacy, and partnerships.

Driven by a passion for improving health outcomes and mobilizing philanthropy and community around meaningful change, Teer most recently served as Senior Vice President of Wellstar Health System and President of the Wellstar Foundation, where she built the Foundation from inception and grew philanthropic revenue to more than $20 million annually while helping guide major enterprise-wide initiatives and system transformation.

Prior to Wellstar, Teer served as Chief Development & Public Affairs Officer at Boys & Girls Club of America, where she played a pivotal role during one of the most transformative periods in the organization's history. Under her leadership, public and private sector revenue more than doubled, advocacy efforts elevated the importance of youth development in policy conversations at the federal, state, and local levels, board engagement and recruitment strategies were significantly strengthened, and the organization successfully completed a historic $584 million campaign.

Earlier in her career, Teer served as Vice President of Development at Susan G. Komen for the Cure, working alongside founder Nancy G. Brinker to expand the organization's global footprint and diversify revenue growth strategies. Prior to her nonprofit and healthcare leadership roles, she served in senior communications, fundraising, and political strategy positions for nationally prominent elected officials, including presidential campaigns for George W. Bush and Mitt Romney. She began her career on Capitol Hill as one of the youngest Press Secretaries in the United States Senate following graduation from the University of Michigan.

Beyond her executive leadership roles, Teer is deeply engaged in civic and philanthropic leadership. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Leadership Committee for How Women Lead, as Adjunct Faculty at Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and on the University of Michigan Greater Atlanta Alumni Board. She is also a member of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2026 and previously served as a Presidential Appointee to the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition.

"Julie is a transformational leader with a rare combination of strategic vision, operational excellence, fundraising expertise, and deep healthcare experience," said Mitzi Solomon, Founder and President of Countdown. "Over the past several years, Countdown has evolved from a personal mission into a growing movement dedicated to changing how we understand health. As we continue expanding our research investments, strategic partnerships, public awareness efforts, and educational initiatives, we knew it was essential to bring in a leader capable of scaling both our impact and our vision. Julie's experience, leadership, and passion for mission-driven growth make her the ideal person to help lead Countdown into its next chapter."

As CEO, Teer will work alongside Solomon, the Board of Directors, Scientific and Medical Advisory Board, donors, and strategic partners to accelerate Countdown's mission while expanding public engagement and awareness of mitochondrial health and the fields of mitochondrial science and medicine.

"Countdown brings together science, innovation, philanthropy, and human possibility," said Julie Teer. "The organization has already built extraordinary momentum around a field that is poised to transform the future of human health. At the center of that field are mitochondria, which power nearly every cell in the body, and shape how we understand health, disease, and aging. I am honored to join Countdown at this pivotal moment and work alongside Mitzi, our Board of Directors, Scientific and Medical Advisory Board, partners, supporters, and community to accelerate discovery, expand public awareness, and help bring cellular energy to the center of human health."

Countdown is dedicated to accelerating mitochondrial science and medicine and advancing discoveries that will transform human health. By funding groundbreaking research and bringing greater attention and resources to this historically overlooked and underfunded field, Countdown is leading the movement to bring mitochondrial science from the margins of medicine to the center of how we understand, prevent, and treat disease.

About Countdown

Countdown is advancing a world where mitochondria and cellular energy are recognized as foundational to human health, transforming how we understand, prevent, and treat disease while improving resilience, performance, and health across the lifespan.

To accelerate mitochondrial science and medicine, Countdown funds bold, high-risk, high-reward research, expands education and public understanding, and forges the cross-sector partnerships needed to move the field forward ? building a new model with the power to reshape human health. Countdown was founded to change both the pace of mitochondrial discovery and the way scientific progress is supported.

For more information, visit www.joincountdown.org

Media Contacts

Hannah Amick

President & Founder, HUFF & Co.

t: 678.488.2909 e: hannah@huffandco.com

huffandco.com

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Account Director, HUFF & Co.

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Account Executive, HUFF & Co.

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Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

MIAMI, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Defiance ETFs, a leading issuer of thematic and leveraged exchange traded funds, today announced the launch of the Defiance China Robotics ETF (Nasdaq: CROB), the first US-listed ETF dedicated to China's humanoid robotics ecosystem.

CROB seeks to track the total return performance, before fees and expenses, of the Solactive China Humanoid Robotics Index, a rules-based index of Chinese companies engaged in the development, manufacturing, and supply of technologies essential for humanoid robotics, including AI driven robotics, motion control systems, precision actuators, and automation solutions.

Humanoid robots are moving from prototypes to production, and China has become a major center of that shift. China is home to major producers of many of the components that make a humanoid robot work: precision actuators, harmonic reducers, high precision motors, sensors, and motion control systems. At the same time, a new generation of Chinese robot makers is working to bring humanoids to commercial deployment at manufacturing scale, and humanoid robotics has been identified as a development priority by Chinese policymakers, including in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's 2023 Guiding Opinions on the Innovation and Development of Humanoid Robots. Most of these companies trade in Hong Kong or on the mainland, outside the reach of a typical US brokerage account. CROB is designed to give investors targeted access to that ecosystem in a single US-listed ETF.

"We have watched China run this playbook before, in EVs, in solar, in batteries: scale the supply chain, drive costs lower, and capture global market share. We believe humanoid robotics represents the next phase of this strategy. CROB brings the builders of that entire ecosystem into one rules-based, US-listed ETF," said Sylvia Jablonski, Chief Investment Officer of Defiance ETFs.

CROB carries an expense ratio of 0.89%. Defiance ETFs, LLC serves as the Fund's investment adviser, and Tidal Investments LLC serves as sub-adviser. CROB joins Defiance's lineup of thematic ETFs spanning quantum computing, drones and modern warfare, AI infrastructure, and other next-generation technologies.

For more information, including full holdings, visit www.defianceetfs.com/crob.

About Defiance ETFs

Founded in 2018, Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs allow investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

Media Contact

Brenda Hentschel

bhentschel@gregoryagency.com

201.705.3758

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Defiance ETFs, LLC ("Defiance" or the "Adviser") serves as the Fund's investment adviser; Tidal Investments LLC ("Tidal" or the "Sub-Adviser") serves as sub-adviser to the Fund.

The Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read the prospectus and/or summary prospectus carefully before investing. Hard copies can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. The Fund is non-diversified, this Fund is a recently organized investment company with no operating history. The Fund is non-diversified and will concentrate its investments to approximately the same extent as the Index. As of August 9, 2026, the Index is concentrated in the Commercial and Industrial Electric Products industry group and has significant exposure to the Consumer Vehicle Parts Manufacturing and Factory Automation Equipment industry groups. The Fund is passively managed and subject to index methodology, index provider, and tracking error risk. The Fund may engage in securities lending. Because securities held by the Fund may trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Fund's listing exchange is open, the Fund is likely to experience premiums and discounts greater than those of domestic ETFs.

As an ETF, the Fund may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a particular industry, sector, or country, or in a small number of holdings, may be subject to a higher degree of risk. There is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment.

China A-Shares Risk. The Fund may gain exposure to China A-Shares, which are issued by companies incorporated in mainland China and denominated in Chinese renminbi, primarily through the Stock Connect Program, a mutual market access program that permits international investors to trade eligible mainland China-listed securities through the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. A-Share markets are considered emerging markets characterized by generally low trading volume and less market liquidity, and are subject to Chinese government regulations on the repatriation of assets, restricted-list limitations, and trading suspensions, any of which could increase pricing volatility or disrupt the creation and redemption of Creation Units.

China and Hong Kong-Specific Risk. The Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in securities of Chinese issuers, including those trading on the Hong Kong Exchange, and is therefore more likely to be impacted by events or conditions affecting China and Hong Kong specifically. China and Hong Kong are developing markets that may be subject to considerable degrees of economic, political, and social instability and demonstrate significantly higher volatility than developed markets. Many Chinese companies raise capital offshore through Variable Interest Entity ("VIE") structures, under which an investor in the listed shell company has no direct equity ownership in the underlying Chinese operating company and gains exposure only through contractual arrangements, which limits investors' recourse and the ability to control the operating company's activities.

Humanoid Robotics Companies Risk. Companies focused on the development, manufacturing, and supply of technologies essential for humanoid robotics are subject to intense competition, rapid product obsolescence, and risk to intellectual property rights. These companies often face high research and development costs and significant capital expenditures without assurance that their products or services will prove commercially successful, and are particularly sensitive to legal, regulatory, and political changes, including regulation related to societal impact and product safety.

Concentration Risk / Sector Risk. The Fund's investments will be concentrated in a particular industry or group of related industries to the extent the Index is so concentrated, including the Commercial and Industrial Electric Products, Consumer Vehicle Parts Manufacturing, and Factory Automation Equipment industry groups. As a result, the value of the Shares may rise and fall more than the value of shares of a fund that invests in a broader range of industries, and the Fund's investments may be more volatile than investments in more broadly diversified funds.

Emerging Markets Risk. The Fund invests primarily in companies organized in emerging market nations. Investments in developing or emerging markets involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions not associated with investments in more developed markets, including the risk of government intervention, capital controls, sanctions, and geopolitical events such as military conflict, terrorism, or trade tensions, any of which could adversely affect the trading market and price for Shares.

Currency Exchange Rate Risk. The Fund invests primarily in investments denominated in non-U.S. currencies or in securities that provide exposure to such currencies. Currency exchange rates can be volatile and change quickly and unpredictably, which may cause the value of an investment in the Fund to change quickly and without warning.

Foreign Securities Risk. Investments in non-U.S. securities involve risks not typically present with U.S. investments, including currency fluctuations, political or economic instability, less publicly available information about issuers, and additional trading, settlement, custodial, and operational risks, which can make the Fund more volatile and potentially less liquid than other types of investments.

Non-Diversification Risk. The Fund is non-diversified, meaning it may invest more of its assets in a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, the Fund may be more exposed to the risks associated with an individual issuer or a small number of issuers, which may increase the Fund's volatility.

Passive Investment Risk. The Fund is not actively managed, and its sub-adviser generally would not sell a security due to current or projected underperformance unless that security is removed from the Index or the sale is otherwise required upon a reconstitution or rebalancing of the Index.

Index Methodology Risk / Index Provider Risk. The Index relies on ARTIS, the Index Provider's proprietary natural language processing algorithm, to identify eligible companies, and as a result may not include every Chinese Robotics Company in Hong Kong or China. There is no assurance that the Index Provider will compile, maintain, reconstitute, rebalance, or calculate the Index accurately; losses or costs associated with any such errors generally will be borne by the Fund and its shareholders.

New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors have no track record or history on which to base their investment decision.

Market Capitalization Risk. The Fund may invest in the securities of large-, mid-, and small-capitalization companies. Mid- and small-capitalization companies may be more vulnerable to adverse issuer, market, political, or economic developments than larger companies, generally trade in lower volumes, and are subject to greater and more unpredictable price changes.

Tracking Error Risk. As with all index funds, the performance of the Fund and the Index may differ from each other for a variety of reasons, including Fund operating expenses and portfolio transaction costs not incurred by the Index.

Securities Lending Risk. The Fund may engage in securities lending, which carries certain risks, including the risk that a borrower may fail to return loaned securities on a timely basis or at all, and the risk of a decline in the value of collateral posted by the borrower, either of which could cause the Fund to lose money.

ETF Risks. As an ETF, the Fund is subject to risks that include a limited number of Authorized Participants, market makers, and liquidity providers; the possibility that the Fund may be required to redeem shares for cash rather than in-kind, which may cause it to recognize capital gains it might not have otherwise recognized; trading costs and bid-ask spreads; and the potential for Shares to trade at a premium or discount to NAV, particularly during periods of market volatility or limited secondary-market trading activity. Because certain of the Fund's holdings trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Fund's primary listing exchange is open, the Fund is likely to experience premiums and discounts greater than those of ETFs holding only U.S.-listed securities.

Chinese Robotics Companies refers to companies identified by the Index Provider, using ARTIS?, as engaged in the development, manufacturing, or supply of technologies essential to humanoid robotics (including humanoid robotics and AI-powered automation, motion control and precision actuators, robotic perception and human-machine interaction, and industrial and service robotics infrastructure) and which are headquartered in China and meet the Index's free float market capitalization and liquidity criteria.

As of August 9, 2026, based on a review of SEC EDGAR filings and publicly available ETF issuer, index provider, and exchange listings, Defiance ETFs has identified no US-listed exchange-traded fund, current or historical, whose name, underlying index, or stated principal investment strategy is dedicated to China's humanoid robotics ecosystem, and accordingly believes the Defiance China Robotics ETF (Nasdaq: CROB) is the first US-listed ETF dedicated to China's humanoid robotics ecosystem; existing US-listed humanoid robotics ETFs (KOID, HUMN, BOTT) maintain global mandates in which Chinese holdings are incidental, China-dedicated humanoid and robotics ETFs trade only on non-US exchanges (Hong Kong: Global X 2807/9807; Korea: Mirae Asset Tiger and Samsung KODEX China Humanoid Robot ETFs; Shenzhen: 159551), and the sole historical US-listed China/Asia robotics ETF (KraneShares KBOT) maintained a broad robotics and artificial intelligence mandate that was not humanoid-specific and was converted to the global KOID effective May 2025.

Brokerage commissions may be charged on trades.

Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

The collaboration advances ANEEL's technical and regulatory qualification ahead of commercial reactor demonstration.

Pictured: In the front row from left to right, John D'Angelo (President of Kinectrics) and Milan Shah (COO of CCTE). In the back row from left to right, Sean Donnelly (VP of Nuclear New Build), Paul Thompson (Executive Advisor of CCTE), and Paul Chan (CTO of CCTE)

CHICAGO, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) has selected Kinectrics Inc. (Kinectrics), a division of BWX Technologies Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), to conduct an independent technical review of the ANEEL fuel qualification program as the company advances toward commercial reactor demonstration. 

Kinectrics will perform an independent assessment of the ANEEL fuel qualification program, reviewing key aspects of fuel design, manufacturing, safety and regulatory readiness. The review is intended to support future evaluation by utility Fuel Design Authorities and other stakeholders as the program progresses towards a commercial demonstration irradiation.

This collaboration represents a critical milestone in CCTE's commercial demonstration program, following previously announced collaborations with BWXT Canada Ltd. for the supply of CANDU fuel bundle hardware and with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) for fabrication of full-scale, reactor-ready ANEEL fuel bundles. Together, these partnerships establish the manufacturing, engineering and independent technical capabilities required to advance ANEEL toward commercial reactor demonstration.

"Kinectrics brings world-class expertise in nuclear safety analysis and licensing support, making them one of the most trusted independent evaluators in the nuclear industry," said Milan Shah, COO of Clean Core Thorium Energy. "With BWXT Canada supplying the fuel bundles and CNL advancing ANEEL fuel pellet fabrication, their independent evaluation provides critical validation as we progress toward regulatory approval and future deployment."

The collaboration between CCTE, BWXT Canada, CNL, and Kinectrics highlights the strength of Canada's nuclear supply chain in supporting advanced fuel technologies. Together, these capabilities establish a practical pathway toward demonstration of thorium-based fuel in existing CANDU reactors, supporting the development of fuel with enhanced inherent safety, reduced waste and improved proliferation resistance, while leveraging established reactor infrastructure without requiring major reactor modifications.

The engagement builds on a series of technical milestones achieved by CCTE over the past year. Earlier this year, ANEEL completed accelerated irradiation testing at Idaho National Laboratory's Advanced Test Reactor, achieving burnups exceeding 60 GWd/MTU. In parallel, CCTE also published a comprehensive peer-reviewed engineering assessment in Nuclear Engineering and Design, a leading peer-reviewed journal in nuclear engineering published by Elsevier, demonstrating the fuel's performance, safety characteristics and compatibility across multiple reactor applications.

Together, these milestones establish the experimental, manufacturing and independent technical foundation supporting ANEEL's commercial reactor demonstration programme and future commercial deployment.

About ANEEL Fuel

ANEEL is CCTE's nuclear fuel platform which includes fuel designs and manufacturing, patents and intellectual property, physical high-burnup irradiation data, and advanced modelling. The fuel is a flexible design combining thorium and enriched uranium, with potential applications across Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), Gen IV reactors, and Light Water Reactors (LWRs). Across these reactor technologies, ANEEL is designed to improve fuel utilization, with the potential to reduce long-lived spent fuel volumes per unit of energy generated and strengthen safety margins by improving inherent safety characteristics and proliferation resistance.

About Clean Core Thorium Energy

Clean Core Thorium Energy is a nuclear fuel company exploring thorium-driven nuclear innovations. Clean Core's patented nuclear fuel technology (called the ANEEL fuel) is comprised of thorium and enriched uranium (LEU to HALEU), which can improve the safety and cost-efficiency of water-cooled reactors and advanced reactor technologies. The ANEEL fuel is a novel solution to safety, waste, and proliferation concerns in today's nuclear plants.

Learn more at https://cleancore.energy/. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn and X.

CCTE Contact

Milan Shah

Chief Operating Officer

info@cleancore.energy

VICTORIA, Seychelles, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched the Fixed Coupon Note (FCN) Plan, bringing a structured product commonly used in traditional finance to tokenized US stocks. The new FCN structure allows users to subscribe with USDT and earn a predefined USDT coupon during the holding period.

Bitget is the first crypto exchange to combine the FCN structure with USDT settlement and US stock rToken delivery. The launch expands the ways users can access traditional financial assets through Bitget, moving beyond spot trading to structured strategies built around tokenized equities.

The FCN Plan is designed for users who are interested in gaining exposure to US stocks but prefer to enter at a specific price instead of buying immediately at the prevailing market price. At launch, the product is linked to popular US stock rTokens including SNDK, MRVL, SKHY, NVDA, and MU.

Users subscribe with USDT and select a strike price at which they are comfortable acquiring the linked rToken. If the observation price at maturity is at or above the strike price, the user receives the USDT principal plus the predefined USDT coupon. If the observation price is below the strike price, the principal is converted into the linked rToken at the strike price, while the coupon is paid in USDT.

The structure provides an alternative to placing a conventional limit order. While a limit order allows investors to wait for a preferred entry price, the capital allocated to that order can remain idle until it is executed. FCN enables the platform to set their target price in advance while earning a coupon during the product term, regardless of which of the two settlement outcomes occurs at maturity.

"There are times when you want exposure to a stock but the price is not where you want it to be," said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. "FCN gives users a set price they are comfortable buying at and earn while they wait. Bringing stocks onto Bitget was one part of building UEX. Now we are giving users more ways to access and use these assets, beyond simply buying and selling them on spot."

The launch further expands Bitget's rToken ecosystem and its Universal Exchange strategy, which brings crypto and traditional financial assets into a unified trading environment. By combining USDT, tokenized US stocks and a structured product mechanism used in traditional finance, FCN adds another route for users to access and manage traditional assets on Bitget.

FCN is a non-principal-protected structured product. If settlement occurs in rTokens, users remain exposed to movements in the price of the underlying asset and may incur losses if its price declines further.

To mark the launch, Bitget will run a limited-time FCN campaign from August 17 to September 18, 2026, with rewards available to eligible first-time and cumulative subscribers.

For more information about Bitget FCN, visit here.

About Bitget

Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 500+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships such as MotoGP. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry's lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Spektra reaches full commercial launch at Rystad Energy Innovate on 20 August 2026

Oslo, Norway, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rystad Energy will set out a new vision for energy intelligence in the AI era at Innovate, an online broadcast on 20 August 2026. The event marks the full commercial launch of Spektra, Rystad Energy's AI-native market intelligence platform, and is open to clients and the market.

The way the energy industry accesses and uses data is changing. Spektra launched in beta in June 2026, giving clients access to a platform that brings Rystad Energy's full commercial databases into a single workspace. Users can create unlimited workspaces to suit their workflows, bringing together data from multiple datasets, eliminating the need to switch between tools. Innovate is the moment Spektra moves to full commercial availability, and the complete story is told publicly for the first time.

For two decades, Rystad Energy has built the data the energy industry runs on. Spektra is the next step: a single system that combines powerful data exploration in web-based workspaces, plus MCP connectors and an API gateway, giving energy professionals the flexibility to access and integrate Rystad Energy data in the way that works best for them. The platform draws on millions of energy assets globally, including 85,000+ oil and gas fields, more than 2 million wells, and 200,000+ conventional and renewable energy power plants, all independently sourced and verified.

"Energy markets are becoming more complex, and the demand for faster, more reliable intelligence is only growing. Spektra is built for that new reality and is designed around how energy professionals actually work, giving swift and flexible access to the most reliable energy data in the industry. The platform is easy and intuitive to use, but also with the depth needed for the most sophisticated users. At Innovate, we will show what Rystad Energy's reinvention as an AI-native data platform means in practice, and where we are taking energy intelligence next," said Lars Eirik Nicolaisen, Deputy CEO, Rystad Energy.

At Innovate, Rystad Energy will demonstrate the full AI ecosystem live: AskRystad, MCP and the Microsoft 365 Copilot integration, alongside how the data now reaches directly into the tools the industry already uses. Clients who shaped Spektra will take the stage, sharing how the platform has changed the way they work. Partner integrations with HSBC, SLB, Quorum and FutureOn will show how Rystad Energy data reaches the operational tools the industry depends on.

"Energy professionals need trusted intelligence they can act on quickly. By bringing Rystad Energy's proprietary data into Microsoft 365 Copilot through MCP, we are integrating two decades of industry expertise directly into their flow of work. The result is faster access to critical insights, more informed decisions, and greater business impact across the organizations that rely on this intelligence," said Per Christian Honningsvag, General Manager, Energy and Resources, Microsoft.

Rystad Energy Innovate takes place on Thursday, 20 August 2026, broadcast from the Rystad Energy Oslo studio. The event is open to clients and the market. Register now.

About Rystad Energy

Rystad Energy is a leading independent energy intelligence company dedicated to helping clients navigate the future of energy. By providing high-quality data and thought leadership, our international team empowers businesses, governments and organizations to make well-informed decisions.

Our extensive portfolio of products and solutions covers all aspects of global energy fundamentals, spanning every corner of the oil and gas industry, the renewable energy sector, clean technologies, supply chains, and power markets. Headquartered in Oslo, Norway, with an expansive global network, our data, analysis, advisory, and education services provide clients a competitive edge in the market.

For more information, visit www.rystadenergy.com.

Media Contact

Katie Keenan

Senior Communications Manager

Rystad Energy

media@rystadenergy.com

Media Contact

Katie Keenan

Senior Communications Manager

Rystad Energy

media@rystadenergy.com

New conversational add-in lets users create, edit and review presentations with AI directly in PowerPoint

NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Templafy, the agentic document generation platform, today announces the launch of the Templafy Agent Add-In, a free AI agent that enables users to create, edit and review presentations without leaving PowerPoint.

Available to download from Microsoft Marketplace, the add-in brings document agents directly into the presentation workflow, enabling both the creation of new presentations and facilitation of editing tasks. Through a conversational interface, users can ask the agent to create new slides, rewrite or translate a presentation, fix formatting, add editable charts and tables, review content, and much more, before it is shared.

Oskar Konstantyner, CPO at Templafy, comments: "AI has made it easier to start a presentation, but the work doesn't stop there. Presentations are constantly edited, updated and reviewed by teams, and AI should enhance that process, not create a separate one. By bringing agents directly into PowerPoint, we're extending AI from creation into iteration, so users can keep working with the agent as their presentation evolves, inside the workflow they already know. When connected to Templafy, this becomes even more powerful as the agent is grounded in company knowledge and governed centrally, bringing the speed of AI together with the context and control enterprises need."

The add-in is free for individual PowerPoint users. For Templafy customers, the experience goes further by connecting the agent to approved company content and context, including templates and layouts, content libraries, brand rules, product information and business data. This enables teams to use AI while drawing on information and content their organization already trusts.

For enterprises, this can mean less time spent searching for the right slide, checking the latest messaging or correcting branding and formatting at the end of the process. Microsoft 365 administrators can also deploy the add-in to relevant users or groups across the organization, in addition to centrally distributing rules to AI document creation, taking away the burden of complex prompting or configuration from the individual.

The Templafy Agent Add-In for PowerPoint is available now.

Download the Templafy Agent Add-In for PowerPoint from Microsoft Marketplace.

Notes to editors

About Templafy

Templafy is the leading agentic document generation platform, enabling professionals to create accurate, compliant, and on-brand documents with maximum efficiency.

Our platform allows enterprises to curb AI in the moments that matter by giving AI agents the right context, guardrails, and company-approved knowledge to work from. Through our approach, AI agents apply a combination of AI generated content and rules-based automation to create high-quality and trustworthy documents at speed, without compromising organizational control or consistency, at a low and predictable token cost.

Accessible directly within tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Salesforce, and AI Assistants including Claude, ChatGPT and Copilot, Templafy's patented technology simplifies document workflows, reduces risk, and gives teams greater confidence in the documents that matter most.

More than 4 million users worldwide rely on Templafy to accelerate business content creation with AI. Trusted by industry leaders including KPMG and BDO, Templafy saves teams over 30% of the time they would typically spend on repetitive content, such as proposals, engagement letters, and audit reports, allowing them to focus on revenue-driving work instead.

For more information, press only:

Lucy Westman, Head of Global Communications, Templafy (+44) 7776 454 946, lwe@templafy.com

Add-in percakapan baru memungkinkan pengguna membuat, mengedit, dan meninjau presentasi dengan AI secara langsung di PowerPoint

NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Templafy, platform pembuatan dokumen berbasis agen AI, hari ini mengumumkan peluncuran Templafy Agent Add-In, agen AI gratis yang memungkinkan pengguna membuat, mengedit, dan meninjau presentasi langsung tanpa perlu keluar dari PowerPoint.

Add-in yang tersedia untuk diunduh di Microsoft Marketplace ini mengintegrasikan agen dokumen langsung ke dalam alur kerja presentasi sehingga pengguna dapat membuat presentasi baru sekaligus melakukan berbagai tugas pengeditan. Melalui antarmuka percakapan, pengguna dapat meminta agen AI untuk membuat slide baru, menulis ulang atau menerjemahkan presentasi, memperbaiki format, menambahkan grafik dan tabel yang dapat diedit, meninjau konten, serta melakukan berbagai tugas lainnya sebelum presentasi dibagikan.

Oskar Konstantyner, CPO di Templafy, berkomentar: "AI memang telah mempermudah proses memulai sebuah presentasi, tetapi pekerjaan tidak berhenti sampai di situ. Presentasi terus diedit, diperbarui, dan ditinjau oleh tim. Karena itu, AI seharusnya membantu menyempurnakan proses tersebut, bukan menciptakan proses yang terpisah. Dengan mengintegrasikan agen langsung ke PowerPoint, kami memperluas peran AI dari tahap pembuatan hingga proses penyempurnaan sehingga pengguna dapat terus bekerja dengan agen ketika presentasi mereka terus berkembang dalam alur kerja yang sudah mereka kenal. Saat terhubung dengan Templafy, kemampuan agen menjadi semakin optimal karena didukung oleh pengetahuan perusahaan dan dikelola secara terpusat. Dengan demikian, perusahaan dapat memanfaatkan kecepatan AI sekaligus mempertahankan konteks dan kontrol yang dibutuhkan."

Add-in ini tersedia gratis bagi pengguna PowerPoint individual. Bagi pelanggan Templafy, pengalaman pengguna menjadi lebih lengkap karena agen dapat terhubung dengan konten dan konteks perusahaan yang telah disetujui, termasuk templat dan tata letak, pustaka konten, pedoman merek, informasi produk, serta data bisnis. Hal ini memungkinkan tim memanfaatkan AI dengan tetap menggunakan informasi dan konten yang telah dipercaya oleh organisasi mereka.

Bagi perusahaan, hal ini dapat menghemat waktu yang biasanya digunakan untuk mencari slide yang tepat, memastikan penggunaan pesan terbaru, serta memperbaiki elemen merek dan format di tahap akhir proses. Administrator Microsoft 365 juga dapat menerapkan add-in ini kepada pengguna atau grup tertentu di seluruh organisasi, sekaligus mendistribusikan aturan pembuatan dokumen berbasis AI secara terpusat. Dengan begitu, pengguna tidak perlu lagi menangani perintah atau konfigurasi rumit secara mandiri.

Templafy Agent Add-In untuk PowerPoint kini telah tersedia.

Unduh Templafy Agent Add-In untuk PowerPoint dari Microsoft Marketplace.

Catatan untuk editor

Tentang Templafy

Templafy adalah platform pembuatan dokumen berbasis agen AI terkemuka yang memungkinkan para profesional membuat dokumen yang akurat, sesuai standar, dan konsisten dengan identitas merek, dan lebih efisien.

Platform kami membantu perusahaan mengendalikan AI pada momen-momen penting dengan memberikan konteks yang tepat, batasan yang sesuai, dan pengetahuan yang telah disetujui perusahaan kepada agen AI sebagai dasar kerjanya. Melalui pendekatan kami, agen AI memadukan konten buatan AI dengan otomatisasi berbasis aturan untuk menghasilkan dokumen berkualitas tinggi dan tepercaya dengan cepat. Pendekatan ini tidak mengorbankan kontrol maupun konsistensi organisasi, dengan biaya token yang tetap rendah dan dapat diprediksi.

Teknologi Templafy yang telah dipatenkan dapat diakses langsung melalui alat seperti Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Salesforce, serta asisten AI seperti Claude, ChatGPT, dan Copilot. Teknologi ini menyederhanakan alur kerja dokumen, mengurangi risiko, dan membuat tim lebih yakin saat menangani dokumen yang paling penting.

Lebih dari 4 juta pengguna di seluruh dunia mengandalkan Templafy untuk mempercepat pembuatan konten bisnis dengan AI. Templafy dipercaya oleh pemimpin industri termasuk KPMG dan BDO. Platform ini membantu tim menghemat lebih dari 30% waktu yang biasanya digunakan untuk membuat konten berulang, seperti proposal, surat penugasan, dan laporan audit sehingga mereka dapat fokus pada pekerjaan yang menghasilkan pendapatan.

Untuk informasi lebih lanjut, khusus media:

Lucy Westman, Head of Global Communications, Templafy (+44) 7776 454 946, lwe@templafy.com

MANAMA, Bahrain, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance has announced the launch of the inaugural edition of the King Hamad Award for Coexistence and Tolerance, carrying a monetary prize of US$1 million. Nominations are open worldwide to individuals and institutions until 10 October 2026 through the Award's official website.

Established pursuant to Royal Order No. (32) of 2024, the Award is an international initiative that embodies the values rooted in Bahrain's history and civilization, including openness to all civilizations, religions, and cultures and the promotion of coexistence. It reflects the Kingdom's vision of advancing global peace and coexistence, while encouraging pioneering work in dialogue among civilizations.

The Award recognizes individuals and institutions that have made exceptional and well-documented contributions to fostering a culture of tolerance and coexistence, promoting dialogue and mutual respect, and creating a positive and sustainable impact in communities.

Alongside the monetary prize, recipients receive a certificate of recognition and a medal, presented at a ceremony held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Honorary President of the Award.

His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance, and Chairman of the Award's Judging Committee, said: "This inaugural edition embodies the noble vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in firmly establishing the values of coexistence, tolerance and mutual respect, and in supporting international efforts to build more cohesive and stable societies. The Award reflects Bahrain's approach to translating these values into practical initiatives and policies that deliver tangible and sustainable impact, and to highlighting the experiences and achievements that build dialogue, trust and understanding among peoples and cultures."

The jury comprises Bahraini and international figures with expertise in political, parliamentary, human rights, academic, religious and international cooperation fields. Alongside His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, as Chair, its members include:

Her Excellency Ms. Katalin ?va Nov?k, former President of the Republic of Hungary and former Minister for Family Affairs;

Her Excellency Ms. Hala Mohammed Jaber Al Ansari, Adviser to His Majesty the King for Scientific and Cultural Affairs;

His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ali Al Khuzaei, member of the Shura Council and Chairman of its Human Rights Committee;

Her Excellency Ms. Jaleela Alawi Al Sayed Hassan, member of the Council of Representatives;

His Excellency Mr. Martin Chungong, former Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union; and

His Excellency Dr. Chinmay Pandya, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya and a prominent figure in the global spiritual organization All World Gayatri Pariwar.

For nomination requirements, evaluation criteria, and application submissions, please visit: www.khaward.bh

About the King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance

The King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance was established in 2018 through a Royal order issued by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The Center was founded to achieve His Majesty the King's vision based on advancing the values of coexistence, love and respect for religions rooted in the culture of Bahraini society since ancient times.

The Center aims to recognize and highlight the shared values and commonalities that unite civilizations and cultures, fostering harmony and enriching the spirit of coexistence within the Kingdom of Bahrain. It seeks to raise awareness about the importance of acceptance and mutual understanding among all civilizations.

Furthermore, the Center is committed to promoting global peace and coexistence by emphasizing the universal principles that connect diverse civilizations. It aspires to spark an enlightenment movement grounded in the value of dialogue and the ethical and legal foundations shared across cultures.

A key focus of the Center is to combat extremist ideologies that incite violence, hatred, and terrorism. It also seeks to showcase the strength of pluralism, diversity, and coexistence as reflected in Bahraini society and its rich cultural heritage.

Media contact

Ebrahim Anwar Al Balooshi

Ebrahim.albalooshi@khgc.org.bh

ATLANTA and LONDON, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, announced new AI-powered Image Document Management (IDM) capabilities.

These capabilities help customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers accelerate customs entry preparation, and shipment creation and execution. With logistics-trained AI agents embedded directly into Descartes' customs and transportation solutions, organizations can transform trade documents into operationally ready data that reduces manual data entry and improves operational efficiency.

"Entering commercial invoice data is one of the most labor-intensive activities in the import process, especially when shipments include complex commercial invoices with hundreds of line items," said Scott Sangster, General Manager, Logistics Service Providers at Descartes. "Rather than simply digitizing individual documents, our agentic IDM solution interprets commercial invoices, bills of lading, packing lists and related shipment documents in context. It can extract, validate and prepare data that can immediately begin customs and transportation workflows with significantly fewer exceptions and manual corrections. By eliminating repetitive rekeying from multiple documents while remaining within existing Descartes applications, organizations can process higher shipment volumes with greater consistency and significantly less manual effort."

Leveraging Descartes' Global Logistics Network (Descartes GLN), Descartes' AI-based IDM capabilities allow organizations to process trade documents inside the Descartes applications they already use every day to create shipments or prepare customs entries. Unlike standalone AI document-processing solutions that require separate applications, custom integrations or manual handoffs between systems, Descartes' solution eliminates "swivel-chair" workflows between multiple systems while reducing implementation complexity and accelerating time-to-value. The solution also understands and processes multiple document types associated with the same shipment.

Descartes' AI-based IDM provides customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers with:

Less manual data entry with AI-enabled extraction, interpretation and preparation of customs and logistics information from commercial invoices, bills of lading, packing lists and other trade documents

Faster customs entry and shipment creation by preparing operationally ready data that can initiate customs and transportation transactions without repetitive rekeying

More consistent processing across related shipment documents with fewer exceptions, manual corrections and rework across high-volume customs and logistics operations

Ability to scale operations more efficiently with expanded document-processing capacity that supports business growth without proportional increases in staffing

Simple and functional AI adoption with logistics-trained agents embedded into existing Descartes solutions, eliminating the need for separate applications, complex integrations or customer-trained AI models

"While document processing remains one of the largest sources of manual effort in customs brokerage and logistics operations, most customers aren't looking for another separate AI application to manage documents," said Ken Wood, Executive Vice President of Product Management at Descartes. "With our solution, customers can automate one of the most time-consuming aspects of customs and logistics operations through agentic capabilities that are embedded within the Descartes platform they rely on every day. The goal is not simply to read a shipment document, but to quickly understand its logistics context and rapidly prepare the data needed to move the customs entry or shipment forward faster and more accurately."

Learn more about Descartes' AI-based Image Document Management capabilities.

About Descartes

Descartes powers more responsive, efficient, secure and sustainable international and domestic supply chains by uniting logistics-intensive businesses on its Global Logistics Network (GLN). Shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers connect and collaborate on the GLN leveraging technology, data and AI to manage last mile deliveries, domestic and international shipments, transportation rating and payment, global trade research, customs compliance and a variety of regulatory processes. Learn more about Descartes at www.descartes.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and X.

Global Media Contact

Cara Strohack

Tel: 226-750-8050

cstrohack@descartes.com

From 29 October to 1 November, Asia's premier culinary celebration spotlights exceptional fine wines and exclusive Only in Hong Kong flavours, followed by a month of citywide culinary celebrations

HONG KONG, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is set to return bigger and bolder this autumn, transforming the Central Stage, Central Harbourfront Event Space into a vibrant epicurean paradise from 29 October to 1 November 2026. Set against the iconic Victoria Harbour skyline, the festival will feature over 300 booths, including dedicated wine booths and dining partners, creating unique experiences for wine and food lovers alike.

Across four unforgettable days, visitors can indulge in world-class gastronomy, fine wines and vibrant live entertainment - all in one spectacular harbourfront setting. The culinary celebration will then continue throughout November with Hong Kong Wine & Dine Month, bringing exclusive dining offers, curated menus and gourmet experiences to restaurants and bars across the city.

A World-Class Celebration of Wine

Wine takes centre stage with an exceptional global line-up spanning China, France, Italy, Spain, Georgia and the United Kingdom, alongside brand-new pavilions from Australia, Canada and South Korea. From established Old World producers to emerging regions and contemporary trends such as sparkling teas, low-alcohol craft beers, Asian wines and creative cocktails, the festival offers something to suit every palate.

A major highlight this year is the spotlight on Bordeaux wines. Following the signing of Memorandum of Understanding between the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the Bordeaux Wine Council (CIVB), visitors will enjoy unprecedented access to internationally acclaimed Bordeaux labels and exclusive tasting experiences throughout the festival.

The highly anticipated Grand Wine Pavilion will feature more than 20 exceptional selections of premium wine merchants. Within the Pavilion, over 20 expert-led masterclasses and tastings, hosted by Master Sommeliers and industry specialists, will guide guests through immersive journeys into celebrated wine regions, winemaking craftsmanship, and remarkable vintages.

Elevated Dining and Exclusive "Only in Hong Kong" Flavours

Equally anticipated is the Tasting Room, bringing together acclaimed chefs from Hong Kong and around the world. Specially created tasting menus - available exclusively during the festival - will be expertly paired with fine wines, offering guests an intimate and elevated exploration of culinary artistry and flavour innovation.

This year's line-up brings together a star - studded roster of culinary talents from around the world, including Chef Edward Lee, known to audiences worldwide through Netflix's Culinary Class Wars; Chef Thierry Marx, the World-Renowned Master of French Gastronomy recognised for his French culinary vision and distinguished Michelin-starred career; Chef Chen Zhi Ping of Shanghai's Meet the Bund, recognised by Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2026, Black Pearl Restaurant Guide and Michelin accolades; and Chef Justin Yang Yan Bin of Hong Kong's newly opened contemporary Chinese dining destination QUAN, who was named first runner-up in The Divine Dish China. Each will present exclusive culinary creations for Tasting Room guests.

Beyond the signature festival experiences, this year's edition introduces an exciting new highlight: "Only in Hong Kong" Flavours. More than 100 restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments, luxury hotels and local favourites, will showcase a remarkable line-up of signature dishes celebrating Hong Kong's rich and diverse culinary scene. From local chef-crafted specialties to iconic street food creations, these limited-edition offerings promise an authentic and unforgettable taste of the city.

Join the Festival - and Stay for Wine & Dine Month

From world-class wines to exclusive festival-only dishes, Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival 2026 promises a true feast for the senses. Beyond the four-day harbourfront celebration, visitors are invited to extend their stay and immerse themselves in Wine & Dine Month throughout November.

With special menus and exclusive offers at participating restaurants and bars across the city, Hong Kong transforms into a month-long showcase of culinary excellence - offering even more reasons to sip, savour and explore its dynamic dining scene. Mark your calendars now and join food and wine enthusiasts from around the world at Asia's culinary capital.

To learn more about the festival programme and start planning your trip, please visit:

https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/events/wine-dine-festival.html

Members of the media can download the photos and videos from the following links: https://assetlibrary.hktb.com/assetbank-hktb/action/browseItems?CSRF=AiT1v80lSk6ghahjILrx&categoryId=2500&categoryTypeId=2&cachedCriteria=1

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ms Natalie Chan

Tel: 2807 6216

Email: natalie.yt.chan@hktb.com Ms Irene Tsang

Tel: 2807 6541

Email: irene.tsang@hktb.com

HARTSVILLE, S.C., Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sonoco Products Company ("Sonoco" or the "Company") (NYSE: SON), a global leader in high-value metal and paper consumer and industrial packaging, today announced Francesco Giannolo's appointment to Vice President and General Manager of Sonoco Consumer Packaging, EMEA. He reports directly to Ernest Haynes, president of Sonoco's Global Consumer Packaging segment.

Giannolo joined Sonoco in 2019 and prior to this new appointment was Vice President of Commercial for Sonoco's Consumer Packaging EMEA/APAC business. In 2022, Giannolo was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Sonoco's Rigid Paper Containers business in EMEA and held other sales leadership roles.

"As we align our global Consumer Packaging businesses, it is critical that we have a strong, experienced leader in the EMEA region. Francesco is that leader," said Ernest Haynes, president of Sonoco Global Consumer Packaging. "We look forward to even greater focus on innovation, productivity and customer service."

A native of Naples, Italy, Giannolo has worked in the packaging industry for 23 years, beginning his career at Crown Packaging in 2004 where he was named Plant Manager. He then worked with Amcor as Plant General Manager in its medical division before joining its commercial excellence team where he served as Senior Director of Commercial Excellence for EMEA. Giannolo holds a Master of Science in Environmental and Land Planning Engineering from the Federico II University of Naples.

Earlier this month, Sonoco aligned its Global Consumer Packaging businesses under a single integrated leadership structure, led by Haynes. As President of Sonoco's Global Consumer Packaging segment, Haynes is responsible for Sonoco's largest global business with roughly $5.2 billion in annual sales, 98 operations in 25 countries and 11,250 employees serving some of the best-known consumer brands around the world.

About Sonoco

Founded in 1899, Sonoco (NYSE: SON) is a global leader in value-added, sustainable metal and paper consumer and industrial packaging. A Fortune 500 company, Sonoco generated net sales of $7.5 billion from continuing operations in 2025 and has approximately 22,000 employees working in 263 operations in 37 countries, serving some of the world's best-known brands. Guided by our purpose of Better Packaging. Better Life., we strive to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellence to provide solutions that better serve all our stakeholders and support a more sustainable future.

Sonoco was proudly named one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune in 2026 as well as one of America's Most Admired and Responsible Companies by Fortune and Newsweek. In 2025, the Company was included on USA TODAY's list of America's Climate Leaders. For more information on the Company, visit our website at www.sonoco.com.

Contact: Roger Schrum

843-339-6018

roger.schrum@sonoco.com

   

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2026 - Asian Plastics & Rubber Industry Online Exhibition 2026 (AsianPLAS 2026) officially opens on August 19, launching an extended online exhibition focused on the global plastics and rubber industry.

Running through December 31, 2026, the exhibition connects international buyers with suppliers across a broad range of plastics and rubber materials, machinery, products, and related industrial applications.

Organized jointly by AsianNet and the B2B marketplace TradeAsia, AsianPLAS 2026 provides participating companies with extended international exposure while enabling buyers to discover products, review supplier information, and submit sourcing inquiries online. Through TradeAsia's B2B platform and digital matchmaking resources, the exhibition facilitates connections between global buyers and plastics and rubber suppliers, creating additional opportunities for international sourcing and cross-border business cooperation.

Expanding International Sourcing Opportunities Through Global Industry Exposure

To increase global visibility and sourcing opportunities, AsianPLAS 2026 aligns its exhibition period with several major international plastics and rubber industry events, including Expo Plast Peru, Taipei International Plastics and Rubber Industry Show, West Africa Plastprintpack, Fakuma, PLAST IMAGEN MEXICO, and IPF Japan. By running alongside major international industry exhibitions, AsianPLAS 2026 provides additional opportunities for participating suppliers to reach international buyers and expand their exposure across global markets.

Through AsianPLAS 2026, buyers can review supplier information, browse product catalogs, and directly contact exhibitors for sourcing inquiries. The platform gives international buyers convenient access to plastics and rubber manufacturers and suppliers across a wide range of materials, machinery, products, and related industry applications, while helping participating companies strengthen their international visibility and explore new business opportunities.

Comprehensive Product Categories and Industry Suppliers Across the Plastics & Rubber Sector

The exhibition brings together suppliers and manufacturers from across Asia's plastics and rubber industry. International buyers can explore products and sourcing opportunities presented by companies including ELASTIN INTERNATIONAL, YI CHI HSIUNG, SHANG-YUH MACHINE, LIO CHENG KUNG, UNILONGENTERPRISECO and KAIPHONE TECHNOLOGY.

These exhibitors represent a diverse range of products and applications across the plastics and rubber supply chain, including plastic and rubber materials, processing machinery, plastic and rubber products, packaging and containers, polymers and resins, adhesives and sealants, coatings, chemical additives, and related industrial equipment.

Supporting Global B2B Trade Through Digital Sourcing Solutions

Powered by TradeAsia's B2B platform, AsianPLAS 2026 provides exhibitors with online product showcases, supplier profiles, and digital e-catalogs designed to increase international exposure and sourcing opportunities.

International buyers can browse products and communicate with suppliers online regardless of location or time zone, making it easier to compare products, review supplier capabilities, and submit inquiries efficiently. The exhibition's extended online format also enables participating companies to maintain continuous visibility throughout the more than four-month exhibition period.

By integrating online sourcing, digital promotion, and buyer-supplier matchmaking services, AsianPLAS 2026 creates an efficient digital environment for global B2B trade and international procurement across the plastics and rubber industry.

Start Sourcing Now

Explore suppliers, discover products, and connect directly with exhibitors through the official AsianPLAS 2026 online exhibition platform:

https://www.etradeasia.com/online-show/47/Asian-Plastics-Rubber-Industry-Online-Exhibition-2026.html

About TradeAsia

TradeAsia, available at www.e-tradeasia.com, is a B2B digital marketplace connecting international buyers with suppliers across global markets. The platform brings together a broad network of buyers and suppliers with an extensive product database, helping procurement professionals discover products, identify potential suppliers, and initiate business inquiries online.

In addition to its digital platform, TradeAsia works with international trade organizations and industry exhibition organizers to connect online marketing resources with global industry events. By combining digital product exposure, international buyer reach, and industry marketing resources, TradeAsia helps suppliers strengthen their international visibility and create new opportunities for cross-border business development.

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

Hashtags: #TradeAsia

*allnex is the global market and technology leader for Sag Control Agent (SCA) resin, a unique technology enabling excellent appearance of Automotive OEM coatings.

*Today allnex announced to build its first SCA production facility in APAC, the largest global Automotive market.

*This investment will significantly improve regional supply resilience, reduce lead times, and enhance service for our customers based in the APAC region

*And it will support faster adaptation of the next-generation of SCA's including high-solid, low-bake, and sustainable "green SCA" solutions.

FRANKFURT, GERMANY - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 August 2026 - allnex, a leading global manufacturer and solution provider of coating resins and additives, today announced plans to expand its manufacturing footprint in Asia-Pacific with a strategic investment in Sag Control Agent (SCA) capacity at its Rayong site in Thailand.

Scheduled to begin operations in January 2028, this new SCA capacity investment, signifies allnex's commitment to support its customers in the world's fastest-growing automotive coatings markets.

By bringing SCA production into the APAC region, and importantly closer to customers, allnex will strengthen supply reliability, shorten lead times, and provide greater responsiveness to evolving market needs.

SCAs are a unique and cornerstone technology of allnex's Automotive OEM product portfolio and they define its market leadership position in this application. allnex SCA resins have superior sag control functionality, enabling exceptional appearance in premium high-gloss clearcoats. These specialty resins ensure that coating manufacturers are able to meet the ever increasing demands of car producers for performance, efficiency, and sustainability.

Since allnex invented SCA resins four decades ago, all allnex SCA production was concentrated in its Bergen op Zoom facility in The Netherlands. In the last few years, APAC has become the largest SCA market globally with strong future growth projections driven by increased car production and requirements for better appearance. By making this investment in APAC, allnex will not only provide customers with proximity of supply and greater assurance, it will also ensure to have enough capacity available in time, to meet future growth.

"This strategic capacity investment for a unique technology, is driven by our commitment to our customers and their growth ambitions in Asia-Pacific. By localizing SCA production in Thailand, we are responding directly to customer needs for greater supply security, shorter lead times, and faster access to innovation. The new facility will strengthen our ability and agility to support both global and regional customers in APAC and allows us to meet future market demand." said Ruben Mannien, Senior Executive Vice President APAC.

The Rayong site was selected following a comprehensive evaluation of multiple locations across the region. The site offers existing infrastructure, strong technical capabilities, and strategic proximity to key automotive manufacturing hubs, including China, India, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

The investment will include dedicated reactors for the production of SCA resins for plastic automotive parts and metal car bodies.

Beyond improving supply resilience, the new facility will support allnex's latest SCA innovations designed for next-generation clearcoat systems, including high-solid, low-bake, and more sustainable coating technologies. These solutions help customers improve productivity, reduce energy consumption, and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, ensuring production readiness ahead of anticipated market growth.

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

Hashtags: #allnex

*This summer, Desperados and acclaimed designer Paolina Russo have created the Freeze-Fit: a limited-edition festival jacket cooled by Desperados Freeze

*Combining thermochromic fabrics, integrated cooling technology and a bold design, the jacket helps festival-goers forget the forecast and focus on letting loose

*Created to solve the classic festival dilemma of whether to bring a jacket or not, the Freeze-Fit is designed to help festival-goers forget the forecast and let loose whatever the weather, with over half (53%) globally having had their outfit plans ruined by unpredictable conditions

*The launch is the latest innovation from Desperados, which will be showing up at elrow festivals throughout the summer

AMSTERDAM, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This summer, Desperados has teamed up with acclaimed LVMH Prize-nominated designer Paolina Russo to create the ultimate festival jacket: the Freeze-Fit: a limited-edition festival jacket powered by Desperados Freeze, the brand's latest liquid innovation that transforms Desperados into an ice-cold slush.

Combining experimental fashion, integrated cooling technology and a bold design, the Freeze-Fit is designed to help festival-goers forget the forecast and focus on letting loose.

Using the same frozen liquid innovation behind Desperados Freeze, wearers simply insert the frozen drink into a dedicated pouch inside the jacket. Chilled liquid circulates through an insulated tube system integrated into the garment, while dual hidden fans built into the back maximise airflow. A discreet drinking straw built into the collar even allows festival-goers to sip their frozen Desperados hands-free without ever stepping away from the dancefloor

The result is a wearable cooling system disguised as a statement festival jacket.

And the inspiration came from a dilemma every festival-goer knows all too well: do you bring a jacket or not?

Wear one and you're carrying it around all day in the heat. Leave it at home and you're wishing you hadn't as soon as the temperature drops. For a generation used to checking the weather app before heading out, the forecast has become an unavoidable part of festival planning. Yet festivals are supposed to be about living in the moment, not second-guessing what to wear.

So Desperados decided to create a jacket designed to take the forecast out of the equation.

With research revealing that more than half (53%) of festival-goers saying they have had a festival outfit ruined by unpredictable weather, while more than a quarter (26%) have left a festival early because of it. Despite attending festivals to have fun and let loose, over a third (35%) say weather-related outfit concerns stop them from making the most of the experience.

For many, the decision starts before they've even left home: bring a jacket and risk overheating, or leave it behind and risk regretting it later. The Freeze-Fit is designed to eliminate that compromise, helping festival-goers stay focused on the moment rather than the forecast.

Designed by Paolina Russo, the Freeze-Fit pairs innovative functionality with the designer's signature use of bold colour, texture and experimentation. Crafted using thermochromic materials, the jacket changes appearance as temperatures shift, creating a dynamic visual effect that evolves throughout the day and night. As the temperature changes, so does the design.

Beyond the performance features, the Freeze-Fit also tackles the festival frustration of standing out from the crowd. Over half (54%) admit that they see a lot of the same clothes and styles at festivals, and nearly half of Gen Z (45%) find it hard to find a unique item for the occasion. This limited-edition jacket offers a distinctive addition to any festival wardrobe that can be worn for years to come.

The Freeze-Fit celebrates the launch of Desperados Freeze, the latest innovation to emerge from Desperados. The brand explores where beer and culture collide to create unexpected ideas, bold collaborations and playful innovations designed to help people let loose their way.

A limited number of jackets will be made available through a giveaway, with further details to be announced.

Ligia Patrocinio, Global Head of Desperados said, "Every festival starts with the same question: do I bring a jacket or not? We loved the idea of taking that familiar dilemma and solving it in a completely unexpected Desperados way. The Freeze-Fit is designed to help people forget the forecast, stay cool when the energy rises and focus on what festivals are really about, letting loose with friends. That's exactly the kind of experimentation Deseperados is known for."

Paolina Russo and Lucile Guilmard, the co-founders of Paolina Russo, said, "With shared values of experimentation, colour and vibrancy, there was no question about collaborating with Desperados. Our work has always been rooted in connection, shared memories and self-expression, which resonates with the Desperados ethos of living freely and creating memories with friends. The Freeze-Fit brings this to life through bold colours and an innovative blend of textiles and technology."

Appearing at elrow festivals globally, Desperados is testing and launching new ideas like the Freeze-Fit and the Desperados Freeze drink. All innovations are designed to reimagine nights out for a new era of socialising to help consumers let loose their way, from festivals to late-night dancefloors.

Images are available HERE.

Media contact: desperados@wearetheromans.com

Expanded facility increases engineering, production and customer support capacity for European and global allied forces

OSLO, Norway, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spectra Defense Technologies Norway (Spectra) today announced the opening of its larger, significantly upgraded office and production facility in Sk?yen, further expanding the company's ability to support the evolving mission needs of European and allied forces operating across the globe.

The new facility provides the Spectra Norway team with the additional space and enhanced engineering, production and system integration infrastructure needed to support growing customer demand for current and next-generation command, control, computers, communications, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR) capabilities. The investment reflects the company's continued growth in Europe and its long-term commitment to strengthening trusted, in-region capabilities.

Located in one of Oslo's premier innovation districts, the new Sk?yen facility spans approximately 2,300 m? (25,000 sq ft) and houses advanced production, test, engineering and research and development capabilities, along with dedicated project collaboration areas and modern office facilities.

Spectra Norway has established itself as a trusted provider of high-performance computing and data recording solutions for C5ISR, air defense and autonomous platforms. In response to strong and sustained customer demand, the company has invested in this state-of-the-art facility, more than doubling its engineering and manufacturing capacity. The expansion positions Spectra Norway for continued growth and reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative, mission-critical technologies to defense and security customers worldwide.

"The investment in our new Oslo facility strengthens our ability to meet evolving customer demands and deliver the next-generation solutions European and allied forces need to maintain an information advantage across all domains," said Erlend M?yland, CEO of Spectra Norway. "The new facility gives our team greater capacity to provide responsive engineering and production while continuing to invest in the trusted solutions and expertise that has made Oslo central to Spectra's European operations."

Norway serves as a central hub within Spectra's global engineering and production footprint, with nearly two decades of experience developing and delivering trusted, mission-proven capabilities to NATO members and allied forces operating across the globe. This includes ongoing work with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace on the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) program, where Spectra Norway's Realtime Computer XSR RTC Version 2 is being integrated under a multi-million-dollar production award announced in 2025.

The expansion to the new facility comes as NATO and global allied forces accelerate the shift toward multi-domain operations and data-centric command and control. This shift is increasing demand for enhanced, secure and interoperable technologies that connect assets and sensors across domains, decrease the cognitive load for end users and significantly enhance mission effectiveness in operational environments.

At the center of Spectra Norway's operation is the XSR product line, including the newly released XSR Spire rugged mission computer, as well as the newly launched G2 Ultra Rugged microNAS. Designed, developed and manufactured in Norway, these next-generation edge capabilities support unmanned systems and other distributed platforms by helping forces move and process information faster, protect sensitive data, strengthen situational awareness and enhance decision-making capabilities at the tactical edge.

XSR Spire provides high-performance edge computing in a compact, rugged form factor for unmanned systems, sensor payloads and other space-constrained platforms. The G2 Ultra Rugged microNAS provides high-bandwidth data capture and storage in an ultra-compact system designed for autonomous platforms, distributed sensors and other demanding applications.

Spectra will welcome customers, partners and key stakeholders to the official opening of the Sk?yen facility on Aug. 19 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Guests will tour the new offices and production areas, meet members of the Spectra Norway team and learn more about the company's growth plans and future capabilities.

About Spectra Defense Technologies

Spectra Defense Technologies is a global provider of leading C5ISR solutions for aerospace and defense customers. With over 35 years of proven performance and differentiated expertise, we deliver fully integrated mission systems, data recorders, secure networking, edge computing, robust data-at-rest encryption and advanced visualization that capture, process, and display mission-critical data across air, land, sea, and space. Backed by engineering, sales, and production teams in North America and Europe, Spectra combines global reach with agile innovation to meet evolving end-user needs with speed and precision. Guided by a culture of innovation and deep customer partnership, we build enduring trust through open-architecture designs, technical excellence, and resilient systems designed to meet today's mission needs and anticipate tomorrow's demands for the U.S., NATO, European defense organizations, and allied partners worldwide. Visit spectradefense.tech to learn more.

Contact:

Evangela Rodgers

Spectra Defense Technologies

evangela.rodgers@spectradefense.tech

Marking a new approach to innovation in medical robotics, the new centre will bring advances from a leading surgical robotics research group to patients more quickly

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company, and Imperial College London have launched a five-year partnership to deliver breakthrough research and innovation for robotic surgery for musculoskeletal conditions.

The first-in-kind partnership will bring together a globally renowned academic laboratory with engineers from Smith+Nephew to accelerate the translation of academic breakthroughs in fields such as computer vision and sensing into advanced techniques in robotic surgery.

The techniques will be designed to make robotic surgery less invasive and more intuitive and usable by more than just the specialist centres, leading to better outcomes for patients.

The centre's launch marks both the first time that UK multinational Smith+Nephew has founded a centre of this kind within a university, and Imperial's first industry centre in the field of medical technology. 

Departing from traditional models of innovation in medical technology, which is usually carried out by companies or licensed from universities, Smith+Nephew's experts will work directly with university researchers to co-develop new solutions and will use its scale to bring the cutting-edge techniques to adoption more rapidly than would otherwise be possible.

The new centre will be led Professor Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena in Imperial's Department of Mechanical Engineering, co-director of the Hamlyn Centre, whose group works on robotics for orthopaedic surgery. At full capacity, the centre will support a senior postdoctoral researcher and up to seven fully-funded PhD studentships, recruited progressively across the five-year programme, working with Smith+Nephew engineers and clinicians in the same space.

The new university technology centre will be situated within Imperial's Hamlyn Centre, part of the Institute of Global Health Innovation and a driver of research in robotic surgery.

Research will focus on making robotic surgery less invasive and available beyond specialist centres. Research topics include markerless registration and tracking, which removes the pins and rigid markers that current systems bolt to bone, meaning fewer incisions and less hardware for the patient, and better consistency for the surgeon. Another topic is computer vision that reads and adapts to a patient's anatomy in real time.

Vasant Padmanabhan, President of Research & Development, ENT and Emerging Markets at Smith+Nephew, said, "In Smith+Nephew's 170th year, we are proud to partner with a university that embodies a similar heritage in UK medical innovation. By embedding industry experts within one of the world's leading engineering schools, this centre has the potential to move research into operating theatres at pace, transforming patient outcomes and enhancing the surgical experience."

Professor Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena from Imperial College London said: "Translational research on health devices has historically had two main routes to patients: licensing or spinout companies. This centre establishes a third: academic engineers working hand-in-hand to help develop products with a major industry partner. There is no doubt that the innovations discovered within this centre will hold major impact for the medical technology industry as a whole and its patients."

Professor Mary Ryan, Vice-Provost (Research and Enterprise) at Imperial College London, said, "Working directly with Smith+Nephew, will allow us to bring advanced innovations rapidly to the clinic, drawing on Imperial's world-leading academic expertise and the company's resources and sectoral knowledge. We look forward to further expanding our large-scale partnerships with industry in this space and bringing innovations in medical technology to patients more quickly."

Media Enquiries

David Silverman,PhD                     +44 (0)7985 230 707

Imperial College London                d.silverman@imperial.ac.uk

Charles Reynolds                           +44 1923 477312

Smith+Nephew                              charles.reynolds@smith-nephew.com

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