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Paddles up! Hong Kong marks 50 Years of international dragon boat thrills

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:37:00 +0700

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2026 - With top teams from around the world gearing up for the hotly contested Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races this weekend (June 27-28), participants and spectators can expect a bumper programme of action, fun and entertainment along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui - one of the city's most vibrant districts known for its iconic skyline views and tourist attractions.

There is much to celebrate. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races as well as 35th anniversary of both the co-organiser, Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, and the sanctioning body, International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). The IDBF added to the occasion by announcing earlier this year the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong.

Riding on the wave of excitement, the organiser, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), extended the annual Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival period to 13 days (June 19 - July 1), beginning on the historic Tuen Ng Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) and concluding on July 1, which is the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

As the headline international flagship event of "Hong Kong Summer Fun", Dr Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, said the Festival not only ran over a longer period, but also featured a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment programmes than in previous years, offering an experience found only in Hong Kong for locals and visitors, while showcasing Hong Kong's position as the Events Capital of Asia.

More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete for top honours in the world‑renowned setting of Victoria Harbour. This year's event also introduces the special 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, paying tribute to the traditional spirit of dragon boat racing.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a series of thematic activities along the Avenue of Stars, including a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat, a dragon boat-themed installation in collaboration with the new film Minions & Monsters, live music performances and a line-up of intangible cultural heritage performances, including martial art Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, traditional musical instruments ruan and guzheng.

Highlighting Hong Kong's reputation as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing, as well as its strengths as a global hub city, the IDBF has taken a significant step in its long‑term global strategy with the formal incorporation of International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong on 29 April 2026.

"Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning. It anchors our Federation in the city where our international story started and strengthens our ability to serve our members and the global dragon boat family," said Claudio Schermi, President of the IDBF.

As part of this new chapter, the IDBF has applied for funding under "the Pilot Scheme to Strengthen the Presence of Hong Kong in Asian and International Sports Associations", which was recently introduced by the HKSAR Government's Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. The Pilot Scheme is an initiative designed to support Asian and international sports associations establishing their headquarters or regional headquarters in the city.

The Dragon Boat Festival has a long and colourful history dating back more than two thousand years. Held each year on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, the day commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan.

According to legend, Qu committed suicide for his beliefs by throwing himself into the Luo River. The villagers nearby raced out on their dragon boats, banging gongs and drums to scare away fish and other underwater creatures to stop them from eating Qu's body. The tradition continues to this day, with dragon boat competitions taking place at locations across Hong Kong, each reflecting the unique characteristics of its neighbourhood.

Traditional dragon boat treats feature prominently during the festival, notably zongzi. These glutinous rice dumplings, traditionally wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed or boiled, are widely available during the festive period.

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

Hashtags: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #dragonboatraces #dragonboatfestival

Ogilvy launches first-of-its-kind live Commerce Competition in Singapore to Champion the Future of Creator Commerce

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:32:00 +0700

8 live sellers competed in Ogilvy's Live-Fluence League
(Top Row, left to right) @summerscent, @paperyiran, @roy.kai, @27.fenn,
(Bottom row, left to right) @shermainevip, @veraciayong, @sereneloy.1004, @winzzles

Live-Fluence League showcases how creators are becoming entrepreneurs, partnering with brands to drive sales and build long-term brand equity, reflecting Ogilvy's Creator Commerce proposition and principle: Sales Overnight. Brand Over Time

Pitch Notes:

*Dear Editor,

*Three in four APAC consumers now actively skip polished, traditional advertising, while 90% say they rely on authentic creator-led content before making a purchase. The era of passive scrolling is officially over-and the era of Creator Commerce has arrived.

*To champion this massive retail shift, Ogilvy Singapore, in partnership with TikTok Shop, has launched the Live-Fluence League-a first-of-its-kind, real-time live commerce competition.

*Eight of Singapore's top social sellers went head-to-head in a high-octane live-stream battle, proving how creators are evolving from simple content producers into highly skilled retail entrepreneurs. The event wasn't just a competition; it was a live masterclass in Ogilvy's core belief: Sales Overnight. Brand Over Time.

*The energy was electrifying, and items selling out was proof it worked.

*Please find appended the release and event photos available here.

*Why this matters?

*The Trillion-Dollar Wave: By 2030, the creator ecosystem is projected to contribute a staggering US$1.2 trillion to the APAC economy.

*Beyond the 'Influencer': Creators are the new retailers, combining persuasive storytelling, product positioning, and real-time data analysis to drive direct business conversion.

*The Death of Theory: This event brought the rapid evolution of social commerce out of slide decks and into the real world, showing immediate, trackable ROI on a live leaderboard.

*Let's also not pretend - there are challenges when it comes to employment across the world - and people are hungry for alternative ways to make money and pursue careers. There is a win-win opportunity to be tapped into.

*Please let us know on any questions or interview requests, and we look forward to connecting with you on any future stories you're working on relating to brand, marketing, communications, social media and, of course, influence.

*Kindly email akashah.q@ogilvy.com / ada.tong@ogilvy.com.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2026 - Ogilvy, in partnership with TikTok Shop, today launched the Live-Fluence League, a first-of-its-kind live commerce competition in Singapore which brought together eight of leading social sellers to compete in real time, driving measurable sales for featured brands through a live, trackable leaderboard. The atmosphere was electric and the energy unrivalled. Singapore became the first market across the Ogilvy Asia Pacific network to introduce the League this evening.

More than a competition, the Live-Fluence League marked a milestone moment for Singapore's rapidly evolving creator economy. For the first time, brands, marketers, media and creators witnessed the power of live commerce unfold in real time, with TikTok Shop experts providing live commentary and analysis of the strategies, techniques and commercial decisions that drive successful social selling.

"By bringing together creators, brands and platforms, Ogilvy's Live-Fluence League demonstrated how creator commerce can serve as both a growth engine for businesses and a career opportunity for the next generation of entrepreneurs. This is part of Ogilvy's long-term commitment of spearheading and advocating for a more sustainable and dynamic creator economy - one that equips creators with the opportunities, education and industry connections needed to thrive," said James Baldwin, Head of Influence, Ogilvy Asia Pacific.

Unlike traditional industry events that discuss commerce in theory, guests experienced it first-hand, watching creators transform content into actual sales and influence with clear returns on investments for businesses.

This is especially relevant at a time where many are seeking alternative streams of income amid concerns about employment

Ogilvy is actively working hand-in-hand with brands to unlock new growth channels within the rapidly growing creator commerce economy, to turn everyday influence into a powerful driver of sales, strategic investment and measurable revenue.

Shirley Tay, Chief Executive Officer, Ogilvy Group Singapore shared, "As the commerce landscape rapidly evolves, we are focused on partnering with brands to unlock new, scalable avenues for growth through the creator-led economy. This isn't just about content; it is about conversion. By integrating social, live-stream, and affiliate commerce directly into the brand ecosystem, we turn engagement into measurable revenue, building a frictionless commerce presence for our clients that meets consumers exactly where they are. As industry leaders, Ogilvy Singapore is proud to be pioneering this tech-enabled, creator-driven frontier for our clients because, as David Ogilvy famously said, 'We sell, or else'".

Ogilvy's Creator Commerce proposition is built around a simple principle: Sales Overnight. Brand Over Time.

Of course, creator commerce presents enormous commercial potential, but rather than taking a short-term, tactical approach with creators done on ad hoc basis, Ogilvy believes sustainable success requires a strategic approach. This takes into consideration brand alignment, creator fit and the long-term equity being built-or eroded-with every engagement.

The sales overnight, brand over time approach combines the immediate revenue-driving potential of creator commerce with brand-building strategies that ensure creators, content and commerce work cohesively alongside wider marketing communication efforts.

Creator Commerce: The Next Frontier of Growth

By 2030, the ecosystem is projected to contribute US$1.2 trillion to Asia Pacific's (APAC) economy, fuelled by a staggering 1,267% year-on-year increase in monetised creators across the region.[1] At the same time, retail is experiencing a growing authenticity crisis. Three in four APAC consumers now actively skip overly polished advertising, while 90% say they rely on authentic creator-led content before making a purchase decision.[2]

These shifts are fundamentally reshaping how consumers discover, evaluate and buy products. Social commerce is no longer an emerging trend-it is now one of the fastest-growing retail channels globally, contributing an estimated US$1.6 trillion to the US$5 trillion e-commerce industry.[3]

Yet despite the explosive growth of TikTok Shop and other social commerce platforms across the region, many brands remain on the sidelines and are not yet tapping into the strength of creator commerce to grow their business. As competition intensifies, the opportunity for brand early movers is becoming increasingly limited.

From Content Creators to Commercial Entrepreneurs

The Live-Fluence League was designed to spotlight a significant transformation taking place within the creator economy: creators are no longer simply content producers, they are becoming entrepreneurs, retailers, and business owners.

The competition showcased the sophisticated skill set required to succeed in this new economy-from persuasive storytelling and audience engagement to salesmanship, product positioning, data analysis and commercial strategy.

Beyond the competition itself, the event served as a platform for thought leadership and industry learning. Guests heard from platform leaders, commerce experts and successful creators on the future of social selling, changing consumer behaviour and the evolving role of creators in the digital economy. They were also given direct access to participating livestream sellers, providing a rare behind-the-scenes look at the individuals redefining modern retail through creator-led commerce.

In a marketplace where anyone can sell, the brands that will win are the ones that sell with purpose.

[1] TikTok White Paper 2026"The Art and Science of Authenticity,", https://newsroom.tiktok.com/us12-trillion-by-2030-tiktoks-art-and-science-of-authenticity-study-on-creator-driven-growth-in-apac?lang=en-SG and Marketing Interactive 2025, https://www.marketing-interactive.com/apac-creator-economy-tipped-to-hit-trillion-by-2030

[2] TikTok White Paper 2026"The Art and Science of Authenticity,", https://newsroom.tiktok.com/us12-trillion-by-2030-tiktoks-art-and-science-of-authenticity-study-on-creator-driven-growth-in-apac?lang=en-SG and Marketing Interactive 2025, https://www.marketing-interactive.com/apac-creator-economy-tipped-to-hit-trillion-by-2030

[3] McKinsey Report, 2021

About Ogilvy

Ogilvy has been creating impact for brands through iconic, culture-changing, value-driving ideas since the company was founded by David Ogilvy in 1948. It builds on that rich legacy through Borderless Creativity ? innovating at the intersections of its advertising, public relations, relationship design, consulting, and health capabilities with experts collaborating seamlessly across more than 120 offices spanning 90 countries.

Ogilvy currently ranks as the #1 global agency network for creative excellence and effectiveness by WARC, signifying its ability to deliver creative solutions that drive unreasonable impact for clients and communities. Ogilvy is a WPP company (NYSE: WPP). For more information, visit Ogilvy.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook'

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

Hashtags: #Ogilvy

SCG Showcases Green Innovations and Low-Carbon Cement at Cemtech Asia 2026, Reinforcing ASEAN Leadership and Commitment to the Net Zero Pathway

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:27:00 +0700

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2026 - SCG, ASEAN's leading low-carbon cement manufacturer, co-hosted Cemtech ASIA 2026, a world-class conference and exhibition for the global cement sector held from June 14 to 17, 2026.

Driven by a shared commitment to accelerating low-carbon transition and achieving Net Zero goals, industry executives and experts from across the world gathered to explore breakthrough innovations, expand business networks amidst global challenges, and navigate sustainable business transformations in response to tightening environmental regulations and resource conservation demands.

At Cemtech Asia 2026, SCG demonstrated its commitment to advancing the cement industry through tangible low-carbon cement innovations. Mr. Surachai Nimlaor, President of SCG Cement and Green Solutions, stated:

"As the region's leader in the low-carbon cement industry, SCG is dedicated to developing breakthrough innovations that minimize resource consumption and maximize eco-friendliness. By steadily reducing carbon dioxide emissions, we directly address the evolving demands and adaptation challenges of the construction industry across ASEAN and global markets."

Alongside showcasing its cutting-edge LC3 low-carbon cement prototype at the exhibition, SCG hosted an exclusive site visit to its Ta Luang Cement Plant in Saraburi Province for global delegates. Key highlights of the showcase and tour included:

*SCG LC3 Structural Cement: Developed from limestone, calcined clay, and specialized additives, this next-generation low-carbon cement reduces CO2 emissions by up to 30-40%. Its production process incorporates up to 40% biomass alternative fuels (such as rice husks and straw) and over 35% renewable energy. This is achieved without compromising any product performance or structural integrity, with its environmental performance independently verified through an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

*Rondo Heat Battery: SCG has pioneered ASEAN's first installation of the Rondo Heat Battery at the Ta Luang Cement Plant. Developed in collaboration with Rondo Energy, this breakthrough thermal energy storage solution converts intermittent renewable power into high-temperature thermal energy, storing it at up to 1,500?C in thermal media. With an exceptional energy recovery efficiency of up to 97% and a lifespan exceeding 40 years, the system provides a continuous 24/7 supply of clean heat, supporting the decarbonization of industrial manufacturing processes.

*Refractory Solutions by The Siam Refractory Industry Co., Ltd. (SRIC): As a leading global refractory solutions provider, SRIC showcased its advanced technologies and innovative solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and sustainability, including:

1. Anti-Hydration Brick: The world's first Anti-Hydration brick, extending shelf life from 6 to 24 months. This breakthrough innovation helps minimize material degradation, reduce production downtime, and improve overall operational efficiency.

2. Thermal Media for Heat Battery: Co-developed with Rondo Energy, these high-performance heat storage blocks deliver up to 97% thermal efficiency, enabling reliable 24-hour energy availability and supporting the transition toward cleaner industrial energy solutions.

a. Solar Floating: Installed at the Ta Luang Cement Plant, this floating solar array generates 16.6 million kWh of clean electricity annually, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by over 8,000 tons of CO₂ equivalent per year. By repurposing the plant's industrial reservoirs, the system optimizes resource efficiency and highlights SCG's integration of green energy into heavy industry.

As co-host of Cemtech ASIA 2026, SCG reaffirmed its role as a trusted industry leader on the global stage. The event served as a major catalyst for expanding business networks and facilitating high-level technology and knowledge exchanges with world-class industry players. Moving forward, SCG is dedicated to cultivating global alliances to propel Thailand's cement industry toward a Net Zero pathway, solidifying its position as ASEAN's cement leader.

Watch the video:

CEMTECH ASIA 2026 | SCG Driving ASEAN's Cement Industry Towards Net Zero

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

Hashtags: #SCG

Spectra Defense Technologies Unveils XSR Spire Ruggedized Mission Computer

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:23:00 +0700

New IP67-rated system delivers mission-ready edge computing in a compact, low-SWaP form factor for space-constrained defense platforms

ALPHARETTA, Ga., June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spectra Defense Technologies (Spectra) today launched XSR Spire, a rugged mission computer that delivers high-performance processing in a smaller, lighter and more adaptable form factor for next-generation defense platforms.

Powered by the Intel Xeon-W Gen11 processor, XSR Spire builds on Spectra's mission-proven XSR family with IP67 ruggedization, enhanced convection cooling, open-standard interfaces and flexible expansion options. The system is designed to deliver resilient, reliable computing capability at the tactical edge for European, U.S. and allied defense programs. Its compact form factor supports integration across next-generation ground vehicles, aircraft, maritime vessels, unmanned systems, sensor payloads and other Size, Weight and Power (SWaP)-constrained platforms operating in some of the world's most challenging mission environments.

"The XSR Spire is the latest addition to our XSR product family, bringing proven ruggedized computing performance into a smaller, IP67-rated form factor for low-SWaP platforms that require more processing capability without added size, power or cooling demands," said Terje Melsom, Chief Technology Officer of Spectra Defense Technologies- Norway. "Its open architecture and modular design enable customers to easily integrate new capabilities as mission needs evolve, without requiring a full platform redesign. Intentionally built with all-domain operations in mind, XSR Spire helps end users process mission-critical data closer to the edge to maintain a tactical advantage across today's rapidly evolving battlespace."

In today's operating environments, defense users need to collect, process and act on mission data faster across increasingly distributed platforms. XSR Spire is designed to help support that information advantage by providing end users with the rugged computing architecture needed to process mission data, support interoperable systems and enable faster decision-making across distributed, all-domain operations.

XSR Spire supports flexible configuration through expansion options for one XMC module or two Mini PCI Express (mPCIe) modules. The system natively supports key network and platform interfaces, including 1000Base-T, 10GBase-T, serial ports, USB and VGA/DVI. Its expansion options further enable customers to integrate Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) capabilities such as 1000Base-SX, 10GBase-SR, internal solid-state drive (SSD), Controller Area Network bus (CAN) bus, military standard (MIL-STD)-1553, ARINC-429 and other mission-specific interfaces as requirements evolve.

The new XSR Spire reflects Spectra's continued investment in ruggedized, COTS-available technologies aligned with defense modernization priorities. Building on the company's proven XSR family used across mission computing, server, recorder and network-attached storage applications, XSR Spire provides customers with a resilient, reliable next-generation mission computing solution built to support current operational requirements while providing the flexibility needed to integrate new capabilities as mission needs evolve over time.

To learn more about XSR Spire or request a datasheet, visit XSR Spire

About Spectra Defense Technologies

Spectra Defense Technologies (Spectra) 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

General Fusion and Renexia Announce Framework Agreement for the Commercial Deployment of Fusion Power in Italy

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:19:00 +0700

Two energy leaders to support decarbonization and energy transition objectives in Italy

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- General Fusion Inc. ("General Fusion" or the "Company"), a leader in the global race to commercialize fusion energy, and Renexia S.p.A. ("Renexia"), a Toto Group company specializing in renewable energy, today announced a framework agreement (the "Agreement") to advance the commercial deployment of General Fusion's fusion energy technology in Italy.

General Fusion previously announced its plans to go public through a business combination (the transactions contemplated by the business combination, collectively, the "Proposed Business Combination") with Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III (NASDAQ: SVAC) ("SVAC").

Through the Agreement, General Fusion and Renexia have established a milestone-based framework for collaboration on the commercial deployment of General Fusion's technology in Italy through potential siting, development, funding, construction, and commissioning of one or more Magnetized Target Fusion ("MTF") power plants. The collaboration is intended to support the country's decarbonization and energy transition objectives. The Agreement defines multiple potential phases of collaboration, beginning with site evaluation and selection, and continuing through identification of commercial opportunities, offtake agreements, permitting and construction, with multiple milestone-based definitive agreements contemplated. Collaborative work related to site feasibility is expected to begin immediately, with further phase one work expected to begin in 2026 subject to agreement on related definitive terms.

"This agreement with Renexia represents another meaningful step toward exporting our practical fusion energy technology, developed in Canada, to the world," said General Fusion CEO Greg Twinney. "As a clean energy leader in Italy and around the world, and an early member of our Market Development Advisory Committee, Renexia brings valuable insight into the energy sector and what it takes to bring innovative technologies to market. We are excited to continue working with their expert team to engage key stakeholders in Italy and build the capabilities needed to deploy commercial fusion energy."

"Fusion has the potential to have a transformational impact on our future energy mix. We're thrilled to expand on several years of collaboration with General Fusion with this new agreement to advance commercial fusion energy deployment," said Renexia CEO Riccardo Toto. "As a member of General Fusion's Market Development Advisory Committee, we've had the opportunity to see firsthand the progress the company has made in developing its Magnetized Target Fusion approach, and we look forward to furthering our collaboration to explore opportunities for siting, development, and construction of a fusion power plant in Italy. Energy demand is surging, and as Italy experiences high power costs, General Fusion's Magnetized Target Fusion has the potential to provide economical clean power and is an important technology to pursue on its path to commercialization."

General Fusion previously announced its plans to go public through a Proposed Business Combination with Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III ("Spring Valley" or "SVAC"). At the closing of the Proposed Business Combination, Spring Valley will be renamed "General Fusion Group Ltd.," and the combined company's shares and warrants are expected to trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbols "GFUZ" and "GFUZW," respectively, subject to approval of its listing application. Spring Valley set a record date of June 12, 2026, and a meeting date of July 6, 2026, for its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. If the Spring Valley shareholders and General Fusion securityholders approve the Proposed Business Combination, the transaction is expected to close shortly thereafter, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Quick Facts:

General Fusion's Magnetized Target Fusion ("MTF") is designed to solve significant barriers to commercializing fusion energy at a time when electricity demand is surging, and nations around the world are racing to commercialize fusion power.

As a technology, MTF aims to achieve fusion in a practical way, avoiding superconducting magnets and high-powered lasers, while enabling the use of existing materials for durable machines that would produce cost-effective energy.

In early 2025, General Fusion announced that it had designed, built, and begun operating its world-first Lawson Machine 26 ("LM26") fusion demonstration machine in under two years. LM26 is the first MTF demonstration machine to be built at a commercially relevant scale. It mechanically compresses plasma with a lithium liner at 50% commercial-scale diameter, based on current design parameters.

LM26 aims to achieve key fusion technical milestones: plasma heating to 1 keV (10 million degrees Celsius), then 10 keV (100 million degrees Celsius), and ultimately the Lawson criterion, the combination of fusion parameters that can produce net fusion energy in the plasma.

General Fusion's Market Development Advisory Committee membership spans North America, Europe, and Asia and guides the design and development of a practical MTF power plant that will meet users' needs. For a complete list of committee member companies, please visit https://generalfusion.com/path-to-commercialization/partners-early-adopters-facilities/.

About General Fusion

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

About Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III

Spring Valley is a part of a family of investment vehicles formed for the purpose of acquiring or merging with a business focused on the Power Infrastructure and Decarbonization sectors. Over the past five years, Spring Valley vehicles have raised $920 million in four IPOs. Spring Valley completed a business combination with NuScale Power Corporation, a leading U.S. small modular reactor technology company, and Spring Valley II completed a business combination with Eagle Nuclear Energy Corp., a next-generation nuclear energy company with rights to the largest open pit-constrained measured and indicated uranium deposit in the United States. SVAC maintains a corporate website at https://sv-ac.com.

About Renexia

Renexia is the Toto Group company specializing in the development and operation of energy infrastructure, with a strong focus on renewable energy projects. Building on the experience gained through its subsidiary US Wind on the East Coast of the United States, the Group in Italy has introduced a first-mover approach based on rigorous environmental compatibility assessments and the active involvement of local communities, ensuring full respect for the environment and the adoption of best-in-class technological solutions.

In addition to its leadership in renewable energy, Renexia is progressively expanding its activities across the wider energy value chain, including new initiatives in strategic infrastructure, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), with the aim of supporting energy security, system flexibility, and the transition toward a more sustainable and diversified energy mix.

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.

General Fusion Media Relations Contact:

media@generalfusion.com

1-866-904-0995

Renexia Media Relations Contact:

Gianluca Colace

g.colace@incontra.org

AGF Management Limited Reports Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:11:00 +0700

TORONTO, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

*Reported quarterly adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.72
*Free cash flows of $36.4 million in the quarter, up 52% from prior year
*Total assets under management and fee-earning assets of $74.7 billion, up 40% from prior year
*Declared quarterly dividend per share of 13.5 cents

AGF Management Limited (AGF or the Company) (TSX: AGF.B) today announced financial results for the second quarter ended May 31, 2026.

AGF reported total assets under management and fee-earning assets1 of $74.7 billion compared to $60.5 billion as at February 28, 2026 and $53.5 billion as at May 31, 2025. AGF generated strong free cash flows of $36.4 million in the quarter, up 52% from the prior year.

"The second quarter reflects the continued diversification and growth of our business," said Judy Goldring, Chief Executive Officer, AGF. "Our strong results and cash flow generation reflect continued operating momentum and the ability to execute on our strategic plan."

AGF Investments' mutual fund gross sales were $1,363 million for the quarter compared to $1,650 million in the prior period and $1,148 million in the comparative prior year period. Canadian retail net flows2 were $161.0 million for the quarter, compared to $431.0 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $110.0 million in the comparative prior year period.

"In May, we announced a subsequent investment in NHC, marking another important step in the evolution of AGF Capital Partners and our broader growth strategy. This investment supports the continued diversification of AGF's business, assets and client base," added Goldring.

1 AUM represents assets under management and model delivery assets of AGF subsidiaries and affiliates. Fee-earning assets represents assets managed by affiliates in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.
2 Canadian retail net flows includes Canadian retail mutual fund net sales and Canadian ETF and SMA net sales.

Key Business Highlights:

Under the terms of the transaction with NHC, AGF converted its existing convertible note to equity and made an additional investment of $20.6 million USD in increasing its interest in the company to 50%, effective May 29, 2026. AGF retained options to increase its ownership interest in the future.

John Porter joined AGF Investments as Chief Investment Officer, bringing decades of global investment management and leadership experience to support the firm's investment capabilities and long-term growth strategy.

This quarter, AGF launched Capitol Signals, a subscription-based newsletter featuring insights from Henrietta Treyz, Co-Founder and Director of Economic Policy at Veda Partners, providing clients with timely analysis of U.S. policy developments and their potential impact on global markets.

AGF International Advisors Company Limited, a subsidiary of AGF, remains a signatory to the UK Stewardship Code, a best-practice benchmark in investment stewardship.

Financial Highlights:

Adjusted EBITDA3 for the three months ended May 31, 2026 was $64.1 million, compared to $30.3 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $39.5 million for the comparative prior year period.
Net management, advisory and administration fees3 for the three months ended May 31, 2026 was $96.7 million, compared to $92.5 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $83.8 million for the comparative prior year period.
Adjusted selling, general and administrative costs3 for the three months ended May 31, 2026 was $62.6 million, compared to $65.0 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $59.5 million for the comparative prior year period. Adjusted SG&A decreased compared to the prior period, primarily due to lower government benefits, and increased over the comparable prior year period, driven by higher performance-based compensation expenses.
Adjusted EBITDA3 from AGF Capital Partners for the three months ended May 31, 2026, was $21.5 million, compared to -$3.8 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $10.0 million for the comparative prior year period. The increase over the prior period was primarily due to higher revenue from long-term investments and a $14.7 million gain recognized on the NHC transaction.
Adjusted EBITDA3 excluding AGF Capital Partners of $42.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026, compared to $34.1 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $29.5 million for the comparative prior year period.
Adjusted net income attributable to equity owners3 for the three months ended May 31, 2026 was $46.9 million ($0.72 adjusted diluted EPS), compared to $19.7 million ($0.30 adjusted diluted EPS) for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $26.0 million ($0.39 adjusted diluted EPS) for the comparative prior year period.
Free cash flow3 of $36.4 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026, compared to $36.0 million for the three months ended February 28, 2026 and $24.0 million for the comparative prior year period.


	Three months ended									Six months ended
		May 31,			February 28,			May 31,			May 31,			May 31,
(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share data)		2026			2026			2025			2026			2025
Revenues
Management, advisory and administration fees	$	135.8		$	131.0		$	119.5		$	266.8		$	242.3
Trailing commissions and investment advisory fees		(39.1	)		(38.5	)		(35.7	)		(77.6	)		(73.3	)
Net management, advisory and administration fees3	$	96.7		$	92.5		$	83.8		$	189.2		$	169.0
Deferred sales charges		0.8			0.9			1.0			1.7			2.2
Adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners3		26.6			0.8			14.6			27.4			38.2
Other revenue3		2.6			1.1			(0.4	)		3.7			1.1
Total adjusted net revenue3		126.7			95.3			99.0			222.0			210.5
Selling, general and administrative		64.0			67.5			62.8			131.5			130.6
Adjusted selling, general and administrative3		62.6			65.0			59.5			127.6			123.1
EBITDA3		63.0			28.3			36.2			91.3			80.4
EBITDA margin3		49.7%			29.6%			36.6%			41.1%			38.2%
Adjusted EBITDA3		64.1			30.3			39.5			94.4			87.4
Adjusted EBITDA margin3		50.6%			31.8%			39.9%			42.5%			41.5%
Net income - equity owners of the Company		46.3			18.0			24.3			64.3			55.2
Adjusted net income - equity owners of the Company3		46.9			19.7			26.0			66.6			58.1
Diluted earnings per share		0.71			0.27			0.36			0.98			0.82
Adjusted diluted earnings per share3		0.72			0.30			0.39			1.02			0.87
Free cash flow3		36.4			36.0			24.0			72.4			55.6
Dividends paid per share		0.135			0.125			0.125			0.260			0.240

3 Net management, advisory and administration fees, adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners, total adjusted net revenue, adjusted selling, general and administrative, EBITDA, EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share and free cash flow are not standardized measures prescribed by IFRS. The Company utilizes non-IFRS measures to assess our overall performance and facilitate a comparison of quarterly and full-year results from period to period. They allow us to assess our investment management business without the impact of non-operational items. These non-IFRS measures may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other companies. These non-IFRS measures and reconciliations to IFRS, where necessary, are included in the Management's Discussion and Analysis available at www.agf.com.


	Three months ended
		May 31,		February 28,		November 30,		August 31,		May 31,
(in millions of Canadian dollars)		2026		2026		2025		2025		2025

Mutual fund AUM4	$	37,985	$	35,817	$	34,984	$	32,958	$	30,975
ETFs and SMA AUM5		4,823		4,492		4,136		3,487		2,771
Segregated accounts and sub-advisory AUM		6,634		5,923		7,190		6,685		6,448
Total AGF Investments AUM		49,442		46,232		46,310		43,130		40,194
AGF Private Wealth AUM		9,948		9,764		9,488		9,016		8,568
AGF Capital Partners AUM6		13,178		2,345		2,454		2,510		2,600
Total AUM	$	72,568	$	58,341	$	58,252	$	54,656	$	51,362
AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets7		2,129		2,120		2,136		2,121		2,112
Total AUM and fee-earning assets7	$	74,697	$	60,461	$	60,388	$	56,777	$	53,474
Mutual fund net sales4		6		190		276		247		18
Canadian retail net flows2		161		431		488		309		110
Canadian retail mutual fund net sales8		6		237		282		262		65
Canadian ETF and SMA net sales5		155		194		206		47		45
Average daily mutual fund AUM3		35,869		35,154		34,424		32,122		29,770

4 Mutual fund AUM includes retail AUM and institutional client AUM invested in customized series offered within mutual funds.
5 ETF and SMA AUM includes model delivery assets ? third-party managed account assets for which AGF provides model portfolios and earns a model delivery fee, without custody or discretionary management of the underlying accounts.
6 AGF Capital Partners AUM represents the total assets under management of the Affiliate Managers that comprise AGF Capital Partners. This includes the full AUM of Affiliate Managers for which AGF consolidates or uses the equity method of accounting.
7 Fee-earning assets represents assets managed by affiliates in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.
8 Net sales in retail mutual funds is calculated as reported mutual fund net sales (redemptions) less non-recurring institutional net sales (redemptions) in excess of $5.0 million invested in our mutual funds.

For further information and detailed financial statements for the second quarter ended May 31, 2026, including Management's Discussion and Analysis, which contains discussions of non-IFRS measures, please refer to AGF's website at www.agf.com under 'About AGF' and 'Investor Relations' and at www.sedarplus.ca.

Conference Call

AGF will host a conference call to review its earnings results today at 11 a.m. ET.

The live audio webcast with supporting materials will be available in the Investor Relations section of AGF's website at www.agf.com or at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/3imapmb4. Alternatively, the call can be accessed over the phone by registering here or in the Investor Relations section of AGF's website at www.agf.com, to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN.

A complete archive of this discussion along with supporting materials will be available at the same webcast address within 24 hours of the end of the conference call.

About AGF Management Limited

Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm's collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and private investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $74 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 820,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

About AGF Investments

AGF Investments is a group of wholly owned subsidiaries of AGF Management Limited, a Canadian reporting issuer. The subsidiaries included in AGF Investments are AGF Investments Inc. (AGFI), AGF Investments LLC (AGFUS) and AGF International Advisors Company Limited (AGFIA). The term AGF Investments may refer to one or more of these subsidiaries or to all of them jointly. This term is used for convenience and does not precisely describe any of the separate companies, each of which manages its own affairs. AGF Investments entities only provide investment advisory services or offers investment funds in the jurisdiction where such firm and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

About AGF Capital Partners

AGF Capital Partners is AGF's multi-boutique alternatives business with Affiliate Managers across both private assets and alternative strategies. Clients benefit from the specialized investment expertise of Affiliate Managers1 combined with the organizational support and breadth of resources of AGF Management Limited (AGF). With over 19 years average experience, AGF Capital Partners Affiliate Managers including, Kensington Capital Partners Limited, New Holland Capital, LLC and AGF SAF Private Credit, manage approximately C$15.3 billion* in alternative AUM and fee earning assets on behalf of institutional and retail clients.

*U.S. AUM converted FX rate as at May 31, 2026 (1.38)

The term 'Affiliate Manager' refers to any partner regardless of relationship structures or revenue sharing agreements. The form of AGF's structured partnership interests in Affiliate Managers differs from Affiliate Manager to Affiliate Manager. The structure of the relationship with a particular Affiliate Manager, or the revenue that AGF agrees to share in, may change. When AGF owns a controlling equity interest in an Affiliate Manager, we consolidate the Affiliate Manager's financial results into our Consolidated Financial Statements. When AGF does not control an Affiliate Manager but has significant influence, the investment is accounted for using the equity method. Under this method, the Affiliate Manager's results are not consolidated; instead, AGF's share of earnings or losses, net of amortization and impairments, is recognized in share of profit of joint ventures in the Condensed Consolidated Statements Interim of Income, with the related investment presented in investment in associates and joint ventures on the Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of financial position.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

Nick Smerek
VP, Financial Planning & Analysis
416-865-4337, InvestorRelations@agf.com

Wood Mackenzie acquires LandGate to deliver connected intelligence for the new era of US power markets

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:07:00 +0700

Acquisition of 150 million parcel-level land intelligence dataset strengthens Wood Mackenzie's leading market position and will drive faster, higher-confidence capital allocation decisions for power, renewables, and data center developers.

LONDON/HOUSTON/SINGAPORE, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wood Mackenzie, a global leader in data, analytics and insights for the energy and natural resources industry, today announced the acquisition of LandGate. The deal combines Wood Mackenzie's power market forecasting and supply chain analytics with LandGate's proprietary land and grid intelligence, as electricity demand grows at an unprecedented pace.

"Wood Mackenzie is committed to providing the data, analytics and insights our clients need to make critical decisions in an increasingly complex energy world," said Jason Liu, CEO of Wood Mackenzie. "The system is becoming more interconnected and companies that rely on siloed approaches will be left behind. This acquisition advances our strategy by bringing LandGate's granular land and infrastructure data into our platform, giving customers a uniquely connected view of where demand is growing, how the grid must respond, and where capital should flow."

Power generation investment in the US is expected to reach $1.36 trillion through 2035. Data centers are at the forefront of this growth and Wood Mackenzie estimates they will account for roughly 68% of US load growth through 2030. That concentration of large-scale, location-specific load is shifting power markets from a supply-led model to one defined by demand and whether grid infrastructure can respond in time. Decisions made at the earliest stages of project development are more crucial than ever and require data connecting power market fundamentals to ground-level site conditions within a single workflow.

Founded in Denver, Colorado in 2016, LandGate offers a highly differentiated and proprietary data and analytics solution, leveraging insights on the US power transmission grid and more than 150 million land parcels in the US to support critically important capital allocation decisions for data centers, power and renewables projects, and other energy infrastructure assets.

"The energy industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, and our customers are at the heart of it," said Yoann Hispa CEO of LandGate. "By combining our proprietary data and insights with Wood Mackenzie, we are creating a unified ecosystem that will strengthen our offerings and accelerate the growth and innovation our clients rely on."

"The future of power market analysis requires connecting demand, supply, networks and infrastructure in a single decision-making framework," said Xizhou Zhou, Executive Vice President and Head of Power & Renewables at Wood Mackenzie. "LandGate adds a critical layer of high-resolution data across land, transmission and large-load demand that allows us to model and understand markets from the ground up and significantly enhances our ability to support clients through the full investment lifecycle, from screening and siting to development and financing."

KippsDeSanto & Co., KPMG, and Brach Eichler LLC served respectively as financial, tax, and legal advisors to LandGate in connection with the transaction.

ENDS

For further information please contact Wood Mackenzie's media relations team:

Mark Thomton ? US

+1 630 881 6885

mark.thomton@woodmac.com

Chris Boba - EMEA

+44 7408 841129

Chris.Boba@woodmac.com

Angelica Juarez - AMERICAS

angelica.juarez@woodmac.com

Hla Myat Mon - APAC

+65 8533 8860

hla.myatmon@woodmac.com

You have received this news release from Wood Mackenzie because of the details we hold about you. If the information we have is incorrect you can either provide your updated preferences by contacting our media relations team. If you do not wish to receive this type of email in the future, please reply with 'unsubscribe' in the subject header.

About Wood Mackenzie:

Wood Mackenzie is the global leader in analytics, insights and proprietary data across the entire energy and natural resources landscape. For over 50 years our work has guided the decisions of the world's most influential energy producers, utilities companies, financial institutions and governments. Now, with the world's energy system more complex and interconnected than ever before, sector-specific views are no longer enough. That's why we've redefined what's possible with Intelligence Connected: the fusion of our unparalleled proprietary data with the sharpest analytical minds, all supercharged by Synoptic AI, to deliver a clear, interconnected view of the entire value chain. Our trusted team of 2,700 experts across 30 countries breaks siloes and connects industries, markets and regions across the globe to empower our customers to identify risk sooner, spot opportunity faster and make every decision with complete confidence.

For more information, visit www.woodmac.com

About LandGate

LandGate is the leading provider of data solutions for site selection, origination, development, financing, and market analysis of energy and infrastructure projects: data centers, energy storage, solar, EVs, wind, and natural gas.

For more information visit landgate.com

Chris Boba

Wood Mackenzie

+44 (0) 7408 841129

chris.boba@woodmac.com

Sigenergy Advances "AI in All" Strategy and Honors Global Partners at Intersolar 2026

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:03:00 +0700

MUNICH, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sigenergy (06656.HK), a leading innovator in smart solar energy and energy storage solutions, successfully hosted its New Product & Partner Ecosystem Launch Event during Intersolar Europe 2026.

The exclusive gathering welcomed over 500 distributors, installers, and industry pioneers from across the globe, celebrating a new milestone in Sigenergy's rapid global expansion and highlighting its foundational "AI in All" strategy. Under the theme "Innovating with AI, Growing with Partners", the company unveiled a full range of next-generation energy storage and solar products, and an upgraded global partner ecosystem.

Tony Xu, Founder and CEO of Sigenergy, opened the event by expressing his deep gratitude to the global network that has fueled the company's extraordinary four-year journey. Setting a visionary tone for the evening, Xu highlighted 2026 as a historic milestone year for the brand, headlined by the operational launch of the Nantong Smart Energy Center, the company's successful listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and the rollout of the "AI in All" framework, while emphasizing that original innovation remains the driving force redefining the global energy landscape.

"Four years ago, Sigenergy was just a new name nobody had heard of, but together, we did what people told us was impossible," Tony Xu stated in his opening remarks. "In this industry, we don't copy, we lead; we don't follow, we originate. Innovation is in our DNA."

Sigenergy

Building on this strategic vision, Roy, Sales President of Sigenergy, delivered an impressive overview of the company's extraordinary trajectory of shared growth alongside its global partners. Within just four years of its inception, Sigenergy has successfully scaled its presence across 120 countries, driven by a robust network of more than 170 distribution partners and over 25,000 certified installers worldwide. Reflecting great market trust as of May 2026, over 220,000 smart systems now flawlessly operate globally.

Roy emphasized that this explosive growth across residential, commercial & industrial (C&I), and utility-scale sectors is underpinned by its full-scenario product lineup unveiled at Intersolar 2026, covering brand-new hardware offerings for all scenarios. Beyond hardware upgrades, Sigenergy also rolled out its updated mySigen App 4.0 built within the core of SigenAgent, the industry's first full-scenario AI intelligent agent. Unlike conventional question-and-answer AI tools that merely respond to text prompts, SigenAgent is engineered to autonomously identify a user's core energy goals and execute optimized operations across the entire ecosystem.

Sigenergy

To sustain this global momentum, Sigenergy officially announced its Upgraded Global Partner Ecosystem and revamped worldwide service framework to fully empower all channel partners. The brand rolled out comprehensive partner support mechanisms, including market protection tools, marketing resources and a dedicated business cloud platform, alongside a unified global service framework to deliver reliable worldwide support.

The evening culminated in a prestigious Partner Awards Ceremony. In addition to presenting official tiered certifications for its Platinum Distributors, Gold Distributors, and Platinum Installers, Sigenergy presented a series of specialized awards to honor global allies for their exceptional achievements in technological innovation, C&I expansion, marketing excellence, breakthrough growth, and customer satisfaction.

More than just a celebration of past milestones, the evening concluded as a powerful alignment of global vision and purpose. By seamlessly uniting its next-generation solution matrix with a highly protective, value-driven channel ecosystem, the event successfully transformed Sigenergy's remarkable four-year growth into a shared launchpad - proving that the future of clean energy belongs to those who innovate together, and grow together.

About Sigenergy

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Shanghai, Sigenergy (06656.HK) is a technology-driven company focused on innovation in the new energy sector. Leveraging advanced digital intelligence and a highly skilled talent base, the company has expanded into photovoltaic (PV) generation, smart energy storage, and high-efficiency electric vehicle (EV) charging. Guided by its "AI in All" strategy, Sigenergy integrates artificial intelligence across its product ecosystem to deliver safer, smarter, and more efficient energy solutions for households worldwide.

Media enquiries: yangqing@sigenergy.com

For more information, please visit: www.sigenergy.com

Sigenergy Showcases Full-Scenario Energy Innovations at Intersolar Europe 2026, Accelerating "AI in All" Strategy

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:53:00 +0700

MUNICH, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At Intersolar Europe 2026, Sigenergy (06656.HK) unveiled its comprehensive, full-scenario smart solar-storage products and solutions tailored for residential, commercial & industrial (C&I), and utility-scale applications.

This showcase centrally highlighted the company's system-level innovation capabilities driven by the deep integration of AI and renewable energy technologies. By accelerating its foundational "AI in All" strategy, Sigenergy aims to deliver smarter energy management, highly efficient system synergy, and an elevated user experience across all deployment landscapes, establishing a new global benchmark for smart clean energy independence.

1. Residential Solutions: Expanding the Smart Home Energy Ecosystem

At the heart of this expansion is a comprehensive suite of home innovations anchored by the global debut of SigenStor Neo, the next-generation all-in-one ESS, alongside its native companions: the SigenFlux heat pump and the Sigen EVAC G2 smart charger. Together, they form a highly efficient ecosystem engineered to seamlessly generate, store, optimize, and protect home energy.

The core innovations driving this residential expansion include:

SigenStor Neo (The Next-Gen All-in-One Home Storage Benchmark):

Streamlined All-in-One Design: Integrates the inverter, battery, PCS, EMS, and gateway into a single system to eliminate cluttered wiring and save space. It supports up to six vertically stacked battery modules.

Whole-Home Backup Through Any Outage: All critical home loads can be directly powered by the SigenStor Neo for a simple and streamlined setup. It delivers true uninterruptible power with 0ms load-side disruption and 200% peakpower output capacity, ensuring worry-free operation even in off-grid mode.

Smart Port & Backup Port Flexibility: As the industry's first all-in-one system to integrate both a dedicated Smart Port and a Backup Port, SigenStor Neo unlocks limitless connectivity while delivering a smarter, more resilient energy experience. The innovative Smart Port can seamlessly connect third-party inverters, external generators, smart loads such as heat pumps or EV chargers. Meanwhile, the Backup Port ensures a highly flexible, extended power supply to keep whole-home loads running smoothly during unexpected grid blackouts.

Advanced Architecture & Safety: Allows users to mix old and new batteries via a built-in pack optimizer, and ensures maximum security with an 8-layer protection.

Fast, Easy Installation: Lightweight modules with lifting handles, a single side cover for wiring, and optimized terminal layout and installation process which drastically reduce deployment time and on-site labor.

Sigen EVAC G2 for "Home Black Start": Engineered as the native partner to synchronize solar-storage-charging alongside the SigenStor Neo. It features advanced bidirectional charging technology for V2H home backup, that utilizes the electric vehicle as a critical backup power source to fast-track home energy recovery during grid blackouts.

SigenFlux (Smart Heat Pump): An advanced air-to-water heat pump seamlessly integrated with the solar storage system to drive greater household energy savings. Engineered for installation versatility, it offers flexible indoor-outdoor unit pairing and features an industry-first 2-in-1 control panel that unifies temperature display management with multi-unit control, backed by highly reliable Wi-Fi and Sub-1G connectivity.

SigenMate (Battery solution for small and medium-sized home usage):

High Input & Compatibility: Supports up to 4,000W PV input and 8 solar panels via 4 MPPTs, offering seamless plug-and-play compatibility with all microinverters.

Powerful Output & Parallel Backup: Delivers an industry-leading 3,600W dual AC output on-grid, and connects up to three units in parallel to maintain a robust 3,600W backup output during outages.

All-Weather Safety: Features an IP66-rated enclosure and a 6-layer protection suite, ensuring reliable indoor and outdoor operations across changing weather conditions.

Sigenergy

2. Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Solutions: Multi-Dimensional Matrix Expansion

Sigenergy has enriched its C&I energy matrix to address diverse commercial demands. The modular SigenStack utilizes a DC-coupled architecture to reduce equipment investment and overall costs, fulfilling modular commercial storage demands and enabling precise energy management. Meanwhile, the new cabinet-style SigenCube delivers a highly integrated solution engineered for more compact installations and optimized thermal management. Building on these solid storage foundations, Sigenergy has expanded its C&I applications to Solar-Storage-Charging scenarios by leveraging the Sigen EVAC G2's powerful 100-unit parallel scaling capability, delivering smarter energy management, footprint efficiency, and unmatched flexibility tailored to heavy industrial demands.

This multi-dimensional matrix expansion is driven by key innovations including:

SigenCube (C&I Cabinet Storage Solution): Serving as the cornerstone of the cabinet-style storage expansion, this solution features an all-in-one compact design that fully integrates the PCS and batteries within a single cabinet. Engineered for high scalability and extreme environmental resilience, the system supports up to 100 units in parallel to effortlessly meet heavy industrial demands. It operates flawlessly across a wide temperature range from -35℃ to 55℃, backed by innovative structural adaptations specifically engineered to conquer harsh sand, dust and high-humidity environments.

C&I Solar-Storage-Charging Solution: Unlocks the C&I Solar-Storage-Charging scenario by leveraging the abilities of Sigen EVAC G2:

100-Unit Parallel Clustering (EMS Inside): Supports the massive scaling of up to 100 charging units running simultaneously in parallel. Featuring a built-in EMS, the solution eliminates the need for an external station controller, delivering substantial CAPEX savings while providing a highly flexible deployment model for corporate fleets, commercial parking lots, and public charging hubs.

MID Inside: Integrates MID-certified metering directly into the system to ensure highly accurate, legally compliant billing and transparent energy data tracking, simplifying commercial charging operations and maximizing economic returns for enterprises.

Smart C&I ESS Compatibility: Fully compatible with Sigenergy's C&I energy storage systems to enable virtual capacity expansion without the risk of grid overload, optimizing local power distribution and eliminating the need for costly grid transformer upgrades.

Sigenergy

3. Utility-Scale Frontiers: Opening the New Era of Utility-Scale Storage

Marking its entry into large-scale grid storage, Sigenergy debuts its utility-scale portfolio, integrating the SigenTerra storage system and a 506kW PV Inverter to deliver high efficiency, safety, and intelligent O&M for large-scale power plants. Seamlessly accompanied by the Sigen MVT transformer station for enhanced grid reliability, this solution is engineered to unlock maximum value across the entire project lifecycle.

The core products anchoring this large-scale storage portfolio include:

SigenTerra (Utility Energy Storage): Built for large-scale energy storage applications, SigenTerra focuses on system-level safety, flexible scalability, and highly efficient operations. It coordinates seamlessly with PV inverters, station control systems, and AI dispatching capabilities to transform storage into vital infrastructure that enhances grid friendliness, smooths power output, and optimizes participation in electricity markets.

506kW PV Utility Inverter: Tailored for massive utility bases, this high-power-density inverter significantly lowers LCOE across multiple dimensions. With an ultra-high capacity of 506kW, it reduces the overall equipment count by more than 30% compared to standard 300kW inverters. Furthermore, its 1650V DC input and 1000V AC output design greatly minimize connection points and cable usage, driving down Balance of System (BOS) costs. To counter complex terrains and localized shading, it deploys an 18-MPPT configuration with dual-string tracking per MPPT, boosting energy yield by 1.5% to 2% over traditional solutions in challenging environments. This granular architecture not only maximizes power generation but also serves as a rich data foundation to power AI-driven smart operations, including solar forecasting and automated O&M.

4. Next-Gen Intelligence: The Global Launch of mySigen 4.0

Aligned closely with the "AI in All" strategy, Sigenergy officially launched its mySigen 4.0, headlined by the integration of SigenAgent, the energy industry's first all-domain AI agent. Guided by the core philosophy "User directs, AI thinks, Device acts," users simply define a macro objective, such as minimizing electricity bills or securing robust backup power, and mySigen autonomously perceives, reasons, and configures the entire hardware ecosystem to achieve it, bringing a true "autonomous driving" experience to home energy.

The streamlined core capabilities of mySigen 4.0 include:

AI-Driven Autonomy: Executes tasks autonomously based on user goals with clear strategy self-explanations, and Leverages advanced AI to deliver precise device control, personalized strategy customization, swift fault O&M localization, and deep data trend analysis.

System Security: Maintains final execution authority with the user through explicit confirmation of AI-explained strategies, while ensuring robust offline resilience for uninterrupted control during internet outages.

Open Ecosystem: Integrates seamlessly with open automation networks like Shelly and plans future system access through mainstream platforms like WhatsApp to build a highly compatible smart home energy network.

With these breakthrough innovation milestones, Sigenergy continues to drive the global transition toward smart green energy, delivering unprecedented efficiency and ultimate peace of mind across all energy landscapes.

About Sigenergy

Media Enquiries

yangqing@sigenergy.com

Univar Solutions Menerbitkan Laporan Keberlanjutan 2025 dan Meluncurkan Target Keberlanjutan Baru untuk Tahun 2030

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:49:00 +0700

DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois, June 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Univar Solutions LLC ("Univar Solutions" atau "Perusahaan"), penyedia solusi global terkemuka bagi pengguna bahan baku dan bahan kimia khusus, hari ini mengumumkan penerbitan laporan keberlanjutan tahun 2025 serta peluncuran komitmen keberlanjutan tahap berikutnya melalui strategi 2030, "Pertumbuhan Melalui Tujuan".

Laporan terbaru Perusahaan menyoroti kemajuan signifikan yang telah dicapai di tingkat global dalam mewujudkan target keberlanjutan 2025. Laporan tersebut juga menguraikan rencana yang lebih luas dan terintegrasi dengan strategi bisnis, yang dirancang untuk menciptakan nilai jangka panjang, memitigasi risiko, serta merespons ekspektasi para pemangku kepentingan yang terus berkembang.

"Dalam rangka melanjutkan kemajuan kami selama hampir dua dekade, kami kini memfokuskan upaya pada tahap berikutnya dalam perjalanan kami melalui strategi 2030," ujar David Jukes, Presiden dan Chief Executive Officer Univar Solutions. "Ambisi jangka panjang ini berfokus pada mengukur nilai bisnis, mengelola risiko material, serta mendukung kebutuhan para pemangku kepentingan."

Laporan Keberlanjutan 2025 mencerminkan perjalanan satu dekade pelaporan keberlanjutan global serta menunjukkan kemajuan yang berkelanjutan dalam berbagai prioritas utama di bidang lingkungan, sosial, dan komersial.

Beberapa pencapaian perusahaan dalam laporan ini antara lain:

Berhasil mengurangi emisi Cakupan 1 dan 2 sebesar 32 persen, jauh melampaui target Perusahaan sebesar 20 persen.

Berhasil mengurangi limbah air sebesar 30 persen dibandingkan dengan nilai acuan, sehingga melampaui target yang telah ditetapkan.

Berhasil memperluas keterlibatan pemasok dalam program keberlanjutan, dengan lebih dari 89 persen total belanja kepada pemasok langsung yang telah dinilai.

Berhasil mempertahankan tingkat keterlibatan karyawan yang tinggi (81 persen) dan metrik inklusi, termasuk memperoleh skor 100 dalam Indeks Kesetaraan Perusahaan (Corporate Equality Index).

"Hasil ini menegaskan bahwa keberlanjutan semakin berperan sebagai pendukung utama efisiensi operasional, pengelolaan risiko, dan penguatan kemitraan dengan pelanggan di seluruh lini bisnis kami," ujar Alexa Colin, Chief Legal and Administrative Officer sekaligus pimpinan eksekutif bidang keberlanjutan di Univar Solutions. "Kami telah mencatat kemajuan yang signifikan dalam mencapai target 2025, yang memperkuat upaya keberlanjutan kami saat kami bersiap memperkenalkan target keberlanjutan generasi berikutnya."

Memperkenalkan Strategi 2030: "Pertumbuhan Melalui Tujuan"

Dengan memanfaatkan momentum tersebut, Univar Solutions meluncurkan strategi keberlanjutan baru hingga 2030, yang berlandaskan pada prinsip "Pertumbuhan Melalui Tujuan."

Strategi tersebut dirancang untuk:

Menghasilkan nilai nyata melalui efisiensi, inovasi, dan pertumbuhan.

Memitigasi risiko yang terukur dalam operasional dan rantai pasok.

Mendukung kebutuhan para pemangku kepentingan dalam menghadapi perubahan ekspektasi dan persyaratan regulasi.

"Target-target ini mencerminkan pendekatan menyeluruh yang mengintegrasikan keberlanjutan ke dalam cara kami beroperasi, bertumbuh, dan menciptakan nilai di seluruh wilayah operasional global kami," ujar Dr. Liam McCarroll, Direktur Senior Keberlanjutan Global dan Dampak Sosial. "Upaya ini mencerminkan kerangka kerja yang terintegrasi secara menyeluruh dan selaras dengan strategi bisnis, yang dirumuskan berdasarkan analisis materialitas ganda, kebutuhan pelanggan, serta perkembangan regulasi."

Target Univar Solutions untuk tahun 2030 berfokus pada delapan bidang prioritas global yang mencakup dimensi lingkungan, komersial, dan sosial, termasuk:

Lingkungan

Mendorong pencapaian emisi nol bersih dengan menargetkan penurunan emisi Cakupan 1 dan 2 sebesar 43 persen pada tahun 2030 (vs. tingkat emisi acuan pada 2019).

Meningkatkan efisiensi sumber daya dengan mengurangi intensitas limbah berbahaya dari kegiatan operasional sebesar 20 persen.

Memperkuat pengelolaan lingkungan melalui peningkatan tata kelola air dan pengurangan pelepasan bahan kimia ke lingkungan.

Komersial

Memperluas produk dan layanan berkelanjutan, yang mendukung pemenuhan kebutuhan pelanggan serta mendorong pertumbuhan bisnis.

Memperkuat rantai pasok berkelanjutan, termasuk melalui peningkatan proses uji tuntas dan keterlibatan pemasok.

Selain itu, mengintegrasikan keberlanjutan ke dalam strategi komersial untuk mendukung perjalanan keberlanjutan pelanggan melalui portofolio Produk Berkelanjutan & Alami.

Sosial

Mendorong inklusi dan rasa memiliki dalam praktik bisnis serta pengalaman karyawan.

Meningkatkan dampak positif bagi masyarakat dengan menargetkan 45.000 jam kegiatan sukarela karyawan pada tahun 2030.

Terus meningkatkan kinerja keselamatan kerja dengan menargetkan Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR) ≤ 0,38.

Perusahaan akan terus menerapkan satu strategi keberlanjutan global dan kerangka pelaporan yang terpadu guna memperkuat konsistensi serta transparansi bagi para pemangku kepentingan di seluruh wilayah dan segmen bisnis.

Dengan keberlanjutan yang kini telah terintegrasi sepenuhnya ke dalam model operasionalnya, Univar Solutions berfokus pada peningkatan skala dampak melalui inovasi, penguatan kemitraan dengan pemasok, serta peningkatan solusi bagi pelanggan.

Perusahaan akan terus mengembangkan praktik pelaporannya agar tetap sejalan dengan kerangka kerja global, serta meningkatkan kualitas data, transparansi, dan akuntabilitas.

Pelajari lebih lanjut di: https://www.univarsolutions.com/sustainability

Baca laporan selengkapnya di: https://www.univarsolutions.com/sustainability/esg-resources

Tentang Univar Solutions

Univar Solutions merupakan distributor global terkemuka untuk bahan kimia khusus dan bahan baku, yang mewakili portofolio premium dari para produsen terkemuka di dunia. Didukung oleh salah satu armada transportasi milik sendiri dan tim penjualan teknis terbesar di industri, keahlian teknis tentang logistik yang tak tertandingi, pengetahuan mendalam tentang pasar dan regulasi, kemampuan formulasi dan pengembangan resep, serta perangkat digital terdepan, Perusahaan memiliki posisi kuat untuk menawarkan solusi khusus dan layanan bernilai tambah untuk berbagai pasar, industri, dan aplikasi. Dalam mewujudkan tujuannya untuk membantu menjaga masyarakat tetap sehat, terpenuhi kebutuhan pangannya, bersih, dan aman, Univar Solutions berkomitmen membantu pelanggan dan pemasok berinovasi serta berfokus pada semangat Tumbuh Bersama (Growing Together). Pelajari lebih lanjut di univarsolutions.com.

Pernyataan dan Informasi Berwawasan ke Depan

Komunikasi ini memuat "pernyataan berwawasan ke depan" berdasarkan hukum yang berlaku tentang aspek keuangan dan operasional yang terkait dengan bisnis Perusahaan. Pernyataan berwawasan ke depan umumnya dapat dikenali dari penggunaan kata-kata seperti "meyakini," "memperkirakan," "mungkin," "akan," "seharusnya," "dapat," "berupaya," "bermaksud," "berencana," "mengestimasi," "mengantisipasi," atau istilah sebanding lainnya. Seluruh pernyataan berwawasan ke depan yang disampaikan dalam komunikasi ini dibatasi oleh pernyataan kehati-hatian ini.

Pernyataan berwawasan ke depan mengandung berbagai risiko dan ketidakpastian yang diketahui ataupun tidak diketahui, yang sebagian besar mungkin berada di luar kendali Perusahaan, yang dapat menyebabkan ekspektasi tidak tercapai atau dapat berdampak secara signifikan dan merugikan terhadap bisnis, kondisi keuangan, hasil operasi, atau arus kas Perusahaan. Meskipun pernyataan berwawasan ke depan didasarkan pada asumsi yang dianggap wajar oleh manajemen, kami mengingatkan bahwa informasi berwawasan ke depan yang disajikan dalam komunikasi ini bukan merupakan jaminan atas peristiwa atau hasil di masa mendatang, dan bahwa peristiwa atau hasil aktual dapat berbeda secara signifikan dari hal-hal yang dinyatakan secara tersurat maupun tersirat oleh informasi berwawasan ke depan yang dimuat dalam komunikasi ini. Untuk informasi tambahan mengenai faktor-faktor yang dapat memengaruhi Perusahaan, silakan lihat laporan tahunan terbaru Perusahaan dan laporan keuangan lainnya, termasuk informasi yang tercantum dalam bagian berjudul "Faktor Risiko." Setiap pernyataan berwawasan ke depan hanya mencerminkan pandangan Perusahaan pada tanggal komunikasi ini dan tidak boleh dianggap sebagai menggambarkan pandangan Perusahaan pada tanggal setelahnya dan Perusahaan tidak berkewajiban untuk memperbarui pernyataan berwawasan ke depan apa pun, kecuali sebagaimana diwajibkan oleh hukum.

UNTUK INFORMASI MEDIA:

Hubungan Media

Dwayne Roark

+1 331-777-6031

mediarelations@univarsolutions.com

UPDATE - General Fusion Achieves Compressional Plasma Heating with LM26 Magnetized Target Fusion Machine

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:45:00 +0700

The results, submitted for peer review and publicly available, demonstrate significant progress toward key 1 keV electron temperature milestone

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- General Fusion Inc. ("General Fusion" or the "Company"), a leader in the global race to commercialize fusion energy, has achieved significant progress toward its next major technical milestone with its innovative large-scale Magnetized Target Fusion ("MTF") machine, Lawson Machine 26 ("LM26").

The results show meaningful plasma heating to electron temperatures of approximately 8.4 million degrees Celsius or 0.72 keV, driven by the compression of a plasma with a lithium liner. This is a key indicator of success for the Company's uniquely practical approach to fusion energy. General Fusion previously announced its plans to go public through a business combination (the transactions contemplated by the business combination, collectively, the "Proposed Business Combination") with Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III (NASDAQ: SVAC) ("SVAC").

These results are detailed in a technical paper being concurrently posted on General Fusion's website and submitted for peer review.

LM26 is the first MTF demonstration machine to be built at a commercially relevant scale, and it mechanically compresses plasma with a lithium liner. The Company's next major targeted milestone with LM26 is 1 keV electron temperature.

Since it started operating in 2025, LM26 has completed a series of plasma compressions with results that advance the Company's groundbreaking technology. These results, detailed in the technical paper, include:

Electron temperature of approximately 8.4 million degrees Celsius (0.72 keV +/- 0.08), which represents a more than 3 times increase in electron temperature during mechanical compression, largely due to plasma compressional heating. This is believed to be a unique result for General Fusion's practical MTF approach, which uses a plasma solely heated by mechanical compression after it is formed. These results are supported by multiple diagnostics, including Thomson scattering and Absolute Extreme Ultraviolet (AXUV) systems.

Significant plasma density and poloidal magnetic field increases during compression, both to 10 times starting values; these increases are similar to or better than results achieved in prior General Fusion test beds and at significantly larger scale.

Plasma stability until deep into compression.

No significant plasma contamination by the lithium liner during the stable compression phase.

Observed increase in neutron yield during compression.

The Company believes these results validate the operating principles of the LM26 machine and lay the foundation for planned increases in starting plasma parameters that are expected to enable the mechanical compression of plasma to increasingly higher densities and temperatures. While these preliminary results undergo peer review for potential scientific journal publication, the Company intends to continue optimizing LM26 performance toward achieving 1 keV electron temperature, its first major targeted milestone.

"We are forging a new path in fusion with our uniquely practical MTF approach. The results announced today are all key indicators of real-world progress toward our targeted technical milestones with LM26," said Greg Twinney, Chief Executive Officer at General Fusion. "I am grateful to our team for their unwavering dedication and expertise, as well as our collaborators at the UK Atomic Energy Authority, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, General Atomics, and others who have supported our diagnostic efforts with LM26."

"The LM26 experiments have delivered an important validation of General Fusion's Magnetized Target Fusion approach," said Tony Donn?, Chair of General Fusion's Science and Technology Advisory Committee and former Chief Executive Officer of EUROfusion. "The observed increases in magnetic field, plasma density, and electron temperature during compression demonstrate substantial technical progress and are consistent with the expected behavior from modelling and simulations. The agreement between experiment and theory is particularly encouraging, as it provides confidence that the planned machine upgrades will enable access to even more demanding plasma conditions and bring the technology closer to its next major milestones."

General Fusion previously announced execution of a business combination agreement with Spring Valley Acquisition Corp. III ("Spring Valley" or "SVAC") (the "Proposed Business Combination"). At the closing of the Proposed Business Combination, Spring Valley will be renamed "General Fusion Group Ltd.," and the combined company's shares and warrants are expected to trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbols "GFUZ" and "GFUZW," respectively, subject to approval of its listing application. Spring Valley set a meeting date of July 6, 2026, for its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to approve the Proposed Business Combination. If the Spring Valley and General Fusion securityholders vote to approve the Proposed Business Combination, the transaction is expected to close shortly thereafter, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Quick Facts:

In early 2025, General Fusion announced that it had designed, built, and begun operating its Lawson Machine 26 ("LM26") fusion demonstration machine in under two years. LM26 is the first MTF demonstration machine to be built at a commercially relevant scale. It mechanically compresses plasma with a lithium liner at 50% commercial-scale diameter, based on current design parameters.

About General Fusion

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

Shell unveils its Triple 10 Challenge Concept Car

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:41:00 +0700

Co-engineered vehicle uses innovative thermal management fluid to enable faster charging, greater efficiency and lower lifecycle emissions

LONDON, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shell has today unveiled its Triple 10 Challenge concept car, a ground-breaking proof-of-concept vehicle designed to inspire a new design philosophy for the next generation of battery electric vehicles (EVs).

The Shell Triple 10 Challenge Concept Car achieves a 10% to 80% charge in under 10 minutes thanks to advanced thermal fluids which avoid the need for large, heavy batteries.

This compact, mass-market EV demonstrates next-generation electric vehicle capability, and offers the industry an alternative to the current reliance on ever-larger batteries by re-imagining the fundamentals of thermal management.

A New Benchmark for Efficiency

The vehicle meets three ambitious goals that Shell believes can help drive the future of mass-market electric mobility:

Charge Faster - a sub 10-minute charge time

Go Further - 10-km/kWh economy,

Drive Cleaner - a life cycle 10-tonne CO2e footprint

The Triple 10 Challenge is the first road-worthy vehicle to have successfully demonstrated the potential of a simplified, single-circuit cooling architecture to efficiently manage the thermal load of the car's entire powertrain, even under the most extreme fast-charging scenario in real-world conditions.

Cara Tredget, VP Mobility & Lubricants Technology for Shell, said:

"With the Triple 10 Challenge concept car, we have unlocked the potential for faster charging, lighter systems and improved lifecycle efficiency by using our advanced thermal fluids. Together with our co-engineering partners, we are proud to develop alternative options for sustainable EV development leveraging technologies that are available today and are scalable to support customers into the future".

The Shell Triple 10 Challenge Concept car has been designed to achieve 10 km/kWh in driving economy with a smaller, more efficient battery system, adding over 30% improvement in overall energy efficiency compared to many current-generation EVs, enabled by Shell's advanced thermal fluids that provide optimal thermal management.

The Triple 10 Challenge vehicle is able to charge the battery from 10% to 80% charge in 9 minutes 54 seconds, without compromise to thermal stability or lifespan. While some EVs in market today can charge in under 10 minutes, this requires using an ultra-fast charger in excess of 300kW, which is uncommon on the public charging network. However, the Triple 10 Challenge vehicle is able to attain this on the existing charging network infrastructure using a standard 175kW charger, adding 24km/minute range, compared to typical BEVs at an average 13km/minute range on the same charger ? equivalent to almost 90% more range added per minute of charge.

The Triple 10 Challenge concept car is estimated to have a lifecycle carbon footprint of approximately 10 tonnes CO2e1. Enabled by its lightweight design, optimized battery capacity, low-carbon and recyclable materials, together with 100% renewable electricity for vehicle charging, this is estimated to represent around a 50% reduction in lifecycle emissions compared to typical battery electric vehicles in the European market2.

The Technology: Immersive Thermal Management

The key to the Triple 10 Challenge car's performance is Shell Recharge thermal fluid. Unlike traditional cooling systems that use water-glycol, Shell's dielectric fluid allows for direct immersion cooling of the battery and powertrain components including the motor and power electronics. By redefining heat management across the battery and powertrain, the team has unlocked the potential for faster charging, lighter systems and improved lifecycle efficiency - using technologies that exist and can scale today, as we look to leading in this space in our business tomorrow.

Unveiled at HORIBA MIRA's proving ground, the concept car is the culmination of Shell's Triple 10 Challenge. By incorporating a more compact and efficient battery pack design with fewer modules and using Shell's advanced thermal fluid, enabling a simplified housing architecture, these improvements contribute to about a 25% reduction in overall battery pack cost compared to a conventional EV.

Furthermore, Shell today announced the integration of Shell's full EV capabilities together under Shell Recharge - from charging, to fluids, to battery solutions, to create a stronger, single end-to-end offer for both B2B and B2C EV customers. As part of this, the Shell EV-Plus brand will be retired.

____________________________

1 The Triple 10 Challenge concept vehicle has been developed to demonstrate what is technically achievable under optimized conditions. These conditions include the use of 100% renewable electricity vehicle charging over the 200,000 km lifetime of the vehicle via the Shell Recharge network in the UK, powered by certified renewable electricity. The results are derived from a Shell internal life cycle assessment in line with ISO 14040 &14044 standards drawing on emission factor data from component suppliers and manufacturers, recognized LCA databases and literature publications. Actual results may vary under real-world conditions.

2 The indicated reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions relative to typical battery electric vehicles is based on a comparison with a published life cycle assessment study conducted by Ricardo in 2023 for the European Commission and assuming the same vehicle lifetime of 200,000 km. Differences in underlying methodological assumptions and vehicle specifications (including vehicle size and battery capacity), as well as use-phase conditions mean that the emissions reduction should be regarded as indicative only. Actual outcomes may vary in real-world applications.

Contact details:

Ben Hibbert, VCCP Roar, E: ben.hibbert@vccproar.com; MN: +447794413044

James Ralph, VCCP Roar, E: James.Ralph@vccproar.com; MN: +447889002305

Ateios Secures First-of-Its-Kind Intertek PFAS-Free Certification Across Its Full Battery Electrode Portfolio

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:36:00 +0700

Certification covers LCO, NMC, LFP, and graphite composites, providing battery manufacturers a commercially available path away from fluorinated binders without compromising performance

NEWBERRY, Ind., June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ateios Systems, a U.S.-based advanced battery electrode manufacturer, today announced that its full RaiCore composite portfolio has been certified PFAS-Free by Intertek Sustainability. Spanning LCO, NMC, and LFP cathodes plus graphite anodes, the certification definitively establishes a first for the battery industry.

Issued under Intertek certificate PF-10025-2026a and valid through April 29, 2027, the certification requires Total Organic Fluorine to remain below 20 mg/kg, as measured under ASTM D7359-23. The certified products are listed in the public Intertek Sustainability Certification Directory, giving customers a verifiable reference. The samples for testing and certification were supported by NSF Energy Storage Engine funding.

"PFAS-free claims are increasingly important to consumers, specifiers, and procurement groups, but meaningful verification requires more than testing alone. Independent evaluation, certification, and ongoing oversight help confirm that claims rest on a consistent, defensible process."

- Faye Ricker, PhD, Sustainability Certification Manager, Intertek

Why This Matters

For decades, lithium-ion manufacturers have relied on fluorinated binders such as PVDF and PTFE for their chemical stability?but that same stability has become a liability. PFAS, widely known as "forever chemicals," persist indefinitely and have been detected in the blood of an estimated 98.8% of the global population. Health authorities have linked exposure to certain cancers, developmental and reproductive effects, hormone disruption, and reduced immune response.

"Battery manufacturers no longer must choose between performance and compliance. Our pilots with leading OEMs confirm RaiCore electrodes exceed PVDF-based materials across every key metric. This certification provides procurement and sustainability teams with the independent verification"

- Rajan Kumar, CEO of Ateios Systems

A Bottom-Line Issue: Cost and Revenue

As PFAS regulations tighten globally, fluorinated materials are expected to increase costs across regulatory testing, restricted-substance reporting, emissions controls, supplier audits, and liability management. These risks are amplified in batteries, where product lifecycles are long, and requalification is expensive.

Increasingly, the greater exposure is shifting in the opposite direction.

PFAS-free status is becoming a condition of sale: OEMs are writing restricted-substance requirements into supplier qualifications, ecolabels such as EPEAT recognize PFAS as Chemicals of Concern, and U.S. and EU government purchasers tie procurement eligibility to the same standards. Certification is fast becoming a revenue gatekeeper, not merely a hedge against liability.

Samples Available Now

Ateios offers electrode samples, technical data, and qualification support across its LCO, NMC811, LFP, and graphite platforms, and is working with top OEMs to benchmark PFAS-free electrodes against PVDF-based materials ahead of tightening restrictions. Companies interested in sampling RaiCore electrodes can contact sales@ateios.com.

About Ateios Systems

Ateios Systems manufactures advanced battery electrodes through its RaiCure platform, delivering certified PFAS-Free, high-performance electrodes worldwide at the world's top speeds. Ateios partners with battery OEMs and customers across consumer electronics, medical devices, mobility, defense, and energy storage. Visit ateios.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/64328ce1-3513-4262-9536-dc0608bc76ec.

Contact

Ateios Systems

Email: sales@ateios.com

Website: www.ateios.com

iCAUR V23 Meraih Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026, Mendapat Pengakuan Internasional atas Desain Klasiknya

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:46:00 +0700

WUHU, Tiongkok, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- iCAUR V23 dari Chery Group, berhasil meraih Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026 di Jerman.

Red Dot Design Award, yang didirikan pada tahun 1955, merupakan salah satu dari tiga penghargaan desain paling bergengsi di dunia, bersama iF Design Award dan IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards). Penghargaan ini kerap dijuluki sebagai "Oscar-nya Dunia Desain." Penghargaan ini menjadi pengakuan penting atas kapabilitas desain orisinal iCAUR, sekaligus menegaskan bahwa V23 telah memenuhi standar internasional dalam aspek desain klasik, kepraktisan ruang, dan pengalaman berkendara di berbagai lingkungan.

Dari segi desain, V23 memanfaatkan sepenuhnya keunggulan platform kendaraan listrik murni. Dengan konfigurasi ekstrem yang menempatkan keempat roda sedekat mungkin ke setiap sudut bodi, sudut maksimal bagian depan 43?, sudut maksimal bagian belakang 41?, serta tinggi kolong 210 mm, kendaraan ini tampil dengan postur tangguh yang khas. Rasio lebar dan tinggi yang mendekati 1:1 menghadirkan proporsi visual yang seimbang. Sementara itu, siluet bodi kotak dan permukaan bidang yang tegas semakin memperkuat kesan kokoh pada kendaraan ini.

Pada bagian detail, lampu depan berbentuk bulat, wiper yang terekspos, lampu rem yang dipasang tinggi bergaya piksel Lego, aksen "ransel" terpadu di bagian belakang, serta jendela semu pada pilar C menghadirkan sentuhan klasik yang kuat sekaligus menampilkan identitas desain kotak yang mudah dikenali. Pelindung transparan pada radar gelombang milimeter secara halus menegaskan identitas kendaraan ini sebagai kendaraan berteknologi energi baru. Filosofi desain ini menghadirkan beragam karakter melalui perpaduan organik berbagai elemen desain, sekaligus memberikan pilihan personalisasi yang lebih luas bagi pengguna muda.

Desain klasik yang menonjol secara langsung meningkatkan daya tarik mobil ini di pasar. Sejak diluncurkan, V23 berhasil menempati peringkat pertama di segmen SUV (sport utility vehicle) bodi kotak berbasis energi baru di Asia Tenggara. Pada bulan Mei, lebih dari 1.000 unit V23 resmi terdaftar di Thailand, menempatkannya di jajaran lima besar model kendaraan listrik murni di negara tersebut. Di Malaysia, sebanyak 481 unit kendaraan baru telah diserahkan kepada konsumen pada bulai Mei. Dengan demikian, mobil ini terus memimpin pasar SUV bodi kotak berbasis energi baru. Pada bulan Mei tahun ini, V23 resmi memasuki pasar Afrika Selatan. Media dan para KOL yang mengikuti sesi uji kendara memberikan apresiasi tinggi terhadap performanya yang impresif, desain klasik, serta fitur-fitur cerdasnya. Dalam satu bulan pertama sejak dipasarkan, mobil ini berhasil mencatatkan lebih dari 300 pesanan.

V23 juga berhasil meraih peringkat pertama di segmen SUV listrik murni berukuran menengah dalam Studi Indeks Daya Tarik Produk Kendaraan Energi Baru Tiongkok 2026 yang dilakukan oleh J.D. Power. Pada debutnya di Pameran Otomotif Indonesia, mobil ini berhasil memborong tiga penghargaan: Best APM (application performance monitoring) Outdoor Activity, Favorite New Car Launch, dan Favorite Newcomer Car Brand. Mobil ini juga menjadi SUV listrik murni bodi kotak pertama yang meraih rating keselamatan bintang lima dari ASEAN NCAP (Program Penilaian Mobil Baru untuk Negara-Negara Asia Tenggara).

Kini, desain bodi kotak kembali mendapat apresiasi yang tinggi di pasar global. Melalui desain dan filosofi produk yang berani tampil berbeda tanpa mengorbankan karakternya, V23 berhasil mendapatkan pengakuan dari berbagai penghargaan internasional bergengsi sekaligus dari pasar konsumen. Filosofi ini diwujudkan melalui rangkaian acara global "Ride to Cheer", yang mengajak para pengguna berbagi momen penuh kegembiraan, baik dalam petualangan di alam terbuka maupun melalui pengalaman langsung di dealer. Robot AiMOGA juga akan hadir untuk mengajak konsumen berinteraksi, sekaligus mendukung upaya merek dalam memperluas kehadirannya di tingkat global.

Narahubung: Zeng Zhaoqing

Email: cengzhaoqing@mychery.com

HKSTP Leads Largest-Ever Hong Kong Delegation to BIO 2026 Showcasing Life and Health Tech Strength

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:38:00 +0700

41 local tech firms, institutes and university spin-offs head to San Diego to forge global partnerships, reinforcing the city's status as international healthcare innovation hub

HONG KONG SAR/SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 June 2026 - Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) as supporting organisation, and five renowned local universities - The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and City University of Hong Kong - to form the city's largest-ever delegation of life and health technology innovators to the BIO International Convention 2026 (BIO 2026) in San Diego, from June 22 to 25.

Building on last year's momentum, the 2026 Hong Kong delegation doubled the size of the Hong Kong Pavilion, expanding to a record of 41 organisations from HKSTP, including partner companies, research institutes, and for the first time with top five universities spin-offs. This landmark presence showcased Hong Kong's deep strength across AI-enabled biotech, therapeutics, diagnostics, and pharma innovation, with potential outstanding "First-in-Class" and "Best-in-Class" assets. The delegation underscores the city's leading role as Asia's largest and the world's second largest fundraising hub for the biotechnology sector.

Mr. Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said, "BIO 2026 is a premier platform to showcase Hong Kong's groundbreaking innovation, deepen partnerships, and open new pathways into global healthcare markets. As a super-connector, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to bridge global innovators with opportunities across Asia and beyond. With strong R&D capabilities backed by world-class universities-five ranked among the QS Top 100, including two with medical schools now placed in the global top 20-Hong Kong's biotech and medical research excellence is increasingly recognised worldwide. As the city's innovation ecosystem orchestrator, HKSTP brings together talent, capital, research institutions, clinical partners, and industry leaders to accelerate the journey from discovery to impact. We will continue to empower life and health technology ventures, translating innovation breakthroughs into life-changing solutions that benefit communities around the world."

HKSTP and Park Companies Advanced in Cross-border Innovation and Market Expansion

A key highlight of BIO 2026 is witnessing the signing of three major strategic partnerships:

*LabCentral -- HKSTP signed an MOU with one of the largest global non-profit biotech incubators, supporting life sciences startups with high-impact lab infrastructure and scientific community programmes. The collaboration will deepen ties between the U.S. and Hong Kong life sciences ecosystems through startup support, ecosystem engagement, and co-developed programmes, events and strategic initiatives. It will also help connect startups, investors, corporate partners and research institutions, creating stronger pathways for cross-border innovation and commercialisation.

*Immuno Cure - the developer of the first-in-human novel therapeutic HIV vaccine ICVAX ? announced its collaboration with OPIS, an international Contract Research Organization (CRO), at BIO 2026. Leveraging OPIS's full-service, multi-country clinical trial expertise and regulatory knowledge, the partnership will support overseas clinical trial execution and establish a global framework to prepare for international expansion.

*Zhaoke Ophthalmology signed an MOU with Laborat?rio Teuto, the first company to produce generic medicines and OTCs (Over the Counter - Prescription Exempt Medicines) in Brazil, to explore cross-border cooperation in ophthalmology. This is Zhaoke's first strategic MOU in Brazil market. Leveraging its innovative pipeline and Teuto's commercial network in Brazil, the partnership aims to bring advanced eye care treatments to Latin American patients while demonstrating the globalisation of Hong Kong-born biotech innovation.

Beyond the BIO 2026 Hong Kong Pavilion, HKSTP CEO Mr Terry Wong attended the "Translating Innovation Across Borders: Creating Global Gateways for Biotech Startups" panel sharing session. Mr. Wong shared his insights on cutting-edge biotech trends, Hong Kong's strengths on life and health tech development, and HKSTP's role in building a global bridge for nurturing global startup expansion, sustainable innovation and collaboration.

Furthermore, HKSTP and five Hong Kong university delegates visited the Salk Institute, home to six Nobel Laureates during BIO 2026 to explore partnerships and shape global biotech momentum through collaborative platforms. HKSTP, in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, HKTDC as the supporting organisation, and powered by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in San Francisco, hosted a Global Mixer during the exhibition. Industry leaders, incubators, and venture capital firms ? including Bayer Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, LabCentral, Roche, Simcere Pharmaceutical, and T.Rx Capital ? were invited to join the judging panel for startup pitching sessions. The Pavilion also featured executive sharing and curated networking events for commercialisation, licensing, partnerships, investment and international market expansion.

Global recognition at Biomedical Pitch Competition

In the lead-up to BIO 2026, HKSTP actively drove engagement across the biotech sector and co-organised the 2026 Biomedical Pitch Competition with the Boston Capital Investment Club in Boston on May 23 and 24. Competing against around 170 biotechnology companies worldwide, HKSTP park company Meta Pharmaceuticals (HK) Limited won Third Place for its next-generation autoimmune therapeutics. The recognition underscores the strength of Hong Kong's biotech pipeline and HKSTP's commitment to translational medicine, commercialisation and globally scalable healthcare solutions.

HK's biotech ecosystem rises to another level

Hong Kong continues to expand its global healthcare footprint as the world's second-largest biotech fundraising hub. As Hong Kong's flagship innovation and technology ecosystem, HKSTP is home to more than 300 life and health technology companies and helps innovators turn pioneering ideas into real-world impact. Its ecosystem connects capital, talent, infrastructure and market access across the biotech innovation journey.

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 17,000 research professionals and over 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

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

Hashtags: #HKSTP

Vinpearl secures USD 255 million from international investors, affirming long-term growth prospects

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:35:00 +0700

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 June 2026 - Vinpearl Joint Stock Company announced the successful closing of a USD 255 million strategic investment from SeaTown Private Credit Fund III, a private credit fund managed by SeaTown Holdings International (SeaTown), and Oman Investment Authority (OIA), Vietnam Oman Investment (VOI).

This investment reflects confidence from leading international financial institutions in Vinpearl's position, growth potential, and long-term development strategy.

The investment is made in the form of convertible dividend preference shares (CDPS) issued by Vinpearl. Jefferies acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Vinpearl on this transaction.

The transaction demonstrates strong confidence from leading global investors in the long-term growth potential of Vinpearl, as well as Vietnam's tourism and hospitality sector.

A representative of SeaTown commented: "Vietnam's tourism and hospitality sector continues to demonstrate long-term growth potential, driven by rising domestic demand and growing international arrivals. As an experienced, long-term investor in Vietnam, we are committed to supporting the market's next phase of development, and view Vinpearl as a well-positioned partner in this dynamic sector."

A representative of VOI commented: "As a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam, VOI has been an active investor in Vietnam for many years, with investments across a range of sectors and companies. We see Vietnam as one of the most dynamic economies in the region, with substantial long-term growth potential. Based on that conviction, we are broadening our investment focus into new high-growth areas, and Vinpearl is a flagship example of this strategy. As one of Vietnam's leading hospitality and tourism platforms, Vinpearl is well-positioned to benefit from rising domestic consumption, growing international arrivals and continued sector expansion."

A representative of Vinpearl shared: "We are pleased to welcome SeaTown, OIA and VOI as strategic partners of Vinpearl. This investment not only provides additional resources for our long-term development plans, but also represents recognition from international institutions of Vinpearl's operational capabilities, strategic vision, and growth potential. With the support of reputable global investors, we will continue to enhance our products and services, and contribute positively to the development of Vietnam's tourism industry and the wider region."

Founded and headquartered in Singapore since 2009, SeaTown is a leading Asia-focused alternative investment firm with deep expertise across private and public markets. Owned by Seviora Holdings, Temasek's asset management group, SeaTown is a trusted steward of capital, investing alongside its investors in conviction-driven strategies. As a partner, SeaTown strives to deliver compelling risk-adjusted returns by leveraging its extensive relationship network, decades of investing experience and astute global perspectives.

OIA is the sovereign wealth fund of the Sultanate of Oman, with a mandate to invest globally across diversified asset classes. In Vietnam, OIA invests through VOI, its dedicated investment platform and asset manager. VOI serves as a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam. Since its establishment, VOI has deployed significant capital across a range of sectors in Vietnam and continues to broaden its portfolio in high-growth areas.

Founded in 2003, Vinpearl is a leading Vietnamese brand in tourism, hospitality, entertainment and experiences. Over more than two decades of development, Vinpearl operates 60 facilities across 20 provinces and cities. Its ecosystem includes 5-star hotels and resorts with over 17,500 rooms; 16 VinWonders theme parks offering diverse attractions for all age groups; 6 world-class golf courses; and 3 international-standard convention and performing arts centers VinPalace. In addition, it operates 2 semi-wildlife conservation parks, an equestrian academy, and large-scale live entertainment shows in destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, attracting millions of visitors annually.

With a comprehensive and continuously innovating service ecosystem, Vinpearl continues to reinforce its leadership position in the tourism and hospitality industry, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting Vietnam's image on the global tourism map. The company is well-positioned to capture new growth opportunities and strengthen its competitiveness regionally and globally.

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

Hashtags: #Vinpearl

VEC forges strategic partnerships with leading industry players to advance international exhibitions and events in Vietnam

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:05:00 +0700

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 June 2026 - Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) has signed strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading partners in the exhibition, events, and trade promotion sectors, including Informa Markets, NC Network, Exporum, Vinexad, Chaoyu Expo, and the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA). These partnerships create new opportunities to develop and expand a series of international-scale exhibitions and events in Vietnam.

Under the agreements, VEC and its partners will collaborate to develop, co-organize, and expand specialized exhibitions, trade fairs, conferences, and international events in Vietnam. The parties will also explore opportunities to create new exhibition brands and attract established global event series to be held regularly at VEC's exhibition and event facilities.

The partnerships with Informa Markets, NC Network, Exporum, Chaoyu Expo, and Vinexad will provide VEC with access to a global network of leading exhibition organizers, enhancing its ability to attract large-scale B2B exhibitions, increase international trade visitor traffic, and maximize infrastructure utilization. The parties will also explore deeper collaboration models, including the joint development and ownership of high-growth exhibition brands in Vietnam, while supporting the international expansion of Vietnamese trade fairs, exhibitions, and event brands.

Through its collaboration with the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA), VEC aims to build strong relationships with the multinational business community in the exhibition industry, expand bilateral trade promotion opportunities, and attract high-level international business delegations to conduct business directly in Vietnam.

Centered around the theme "Strategic Partnerships - Setting Standards - Leading the Future," the signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in VEC's development and reinforces its strategic ambition to co-own and develop a new generation of internationally-recognized exhibition and conference brands. This ecosystem of strategic partners will not only strengthen VEC's capabilities in hosting international events but also enable the organization to participate more deeply in the exhibition and events value chain, from infrastructure operations to the co-creation of high-value exhibition products. At the same time, VEC's partners will gain greater opportunities to expand their business activities in Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing markets, while leveraging the advantages of VEC's large-scale, state-of-the-art exhibition complex.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Pham Thi Hien, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Business Development and Marketing at Vietnam Exposition Center, said: "As part of our market development strategy, VEC sees its role as far more than simply providing venue space for events. We aspire to be a strategic partner, working closely with organizers, businesses, and industry associations to attract investment and elevate the scale and standing of specialized exhibitions. We believe today's strategic partnerships will create new momentum for growth, proactively bringing more world-class exhibitions and high-quality business networking programs to Vietnam. Our ultimate goal is to help position Vietnam as a new destination and a strategic connectivity hub for the region."

The signing ceremony comes at a pivotal time for Vietnam's exhibition, events, and advertising industries, which face an urgent need to restructure, enhance competitiveness, and align with international standards. These efforts are expected to contribute to a new era for the country's cultural industries and experience economy.

In the coming period, VEC will continue to establish strategic partnerships with leading domestic and international organizations, launching a series of landmark events that reinforce its role as a national hub for trade, culture, and large-scale events. These initiatives will contribute to positioning Vietnam as one of Asia's premier destinations for exhibitions and events.

About Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC)

Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) is Southeast Asia's largest exhibition complex, spanning more than 90 hectares. As a destination for national and international flagship events, VEC is committed to its mission of "Bring Vietnam to the World and Bring the World to Vietnam." The organization aims to serve as a gateway where global excellence converges and Vietnamese identity reaches international audiences, while contributing to the development of key economic sectors and strengthening Vietnam's position on the global stage. (Website: https://vec.global)

About Informa Markets

Informa Markets is one of the world's leading organizers of B2B events and trade exhibitions. In Vietnam, the company has established a strong presence through a portfolio of events spanning many of the country's key industries. Its flagship exhibitions include MTA Vietnam, the leading international exhibition for machine tools and precision engineering; Food & Hotel Vietnam (FHV), serving the hospitality and food service industries; Vietwater, focused on water supply and wastewater management; and ProPak Vietnam, dedicated to packaging and processing technologies. (Website: https://www.informamarkets.com)

About NC Network

Founded in Japan, NC Network specializes in connecting industrial manufacturing enterprises through an extensive business network. In Vietnam, NC Network Vietnam serves as a trusted B2B bridge between manufacturers in Vietnam, Japan, and the broader ASEAN region. The company is best known for organizing FBC ASEAN (Factory Network Business Conference), a unique business matching platform that directly connects manufacturers, engineering companies, and component suppliers to identify sourcing and partnership opportunities across the industrial value chain. (Source: vn.emidas.com/en/nc-net)

About Exporum

Established in 2003, Exporum is one of South Korea's leading professional exhibition planning and organizing companies. The company is widely recognized for its Cafe Show series, including Cafe Show Seoul and Cafe Show Vietnam, Asia's largest industry platform bringing together the entire coffee value chain, from raw materials to brewing equipment. Exporum is also the organizer of Smart City Asia, a leading exhibition focused on smart city solutions and digital infrastructure. (Website: exporum.com)

About Vinexad

Established in 1975 and operating under Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vinexad is widely regarded as a pioneer of Vietnam's exhibition industry. With more than five decades of experience, the company owns several nationally recognized event brands, most notably Vietnam Expo (Vietnam International Trade Fair). Held annually since 1991, Vietnam Expo is the country's largest and most influential multi-sector trade promotion event. (Website: vinexad.com.vn)

About Chaoyu Expo

Guangdong Chaoyu Exhibition Co., Ltd. (Chaoyu Expo) is a major exhibition organizer based in Guangdong, China, specializing in international B2B events that connect China's extensive consumer goods and electronics manufacturing supply chains directly with Southeast Asian markets. In Vietnam, Chaoyu Expo is known for organizing leading exhibitions such as IEAE (International Electronics & Smart Appliances Expo), IBTE (International Toys and Baby Products Expo), and IGHE (International Gifts & Homeware Expo). (Website: chaoyuexpo.com)

About the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA)

The Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA) is the representative organization for individuals and enterprises operating in Vietnam's MICE, advertising, and events sectors. One of its core functions is to provide official endorsement for major events organized by its members, including large-scale exhibitions hosted by companies such as Vinexad and Informa Markets. VECA also leads national conferences and industry forums focused on market trends and event space development strategies, helping guide the long-term growth of Vietnam's exhibition and events industry. (Website: www.veca.vn)

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

Hashtags: #VEC

Allianz: $125 billion in vessel and cargo value awaits passage from the Persian Gulf

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:59:00 +0700

*Safety and Shipping Review 2026: Vessel and cargo value in region shows importance of maritime chokepoints. Managing geopolitical disruptions is now a top priority for shipowners and cargo operators.

*Geopolitical tensions challenge shipping's ongoing long-term safety improvements. Incidents fell 16% to fewer than 3,000 globally in 2025, while fire remains a major loss driver with over 200 incidents, the second highest total in a decade.

*More complex and volatile risk landscape enforces need for greater operational resilience versus cost efficiency.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 June 2026 - Given that 90% of international trade is transported across oceans, maritime safety and stable shipping trading routes are critical. According to Allianz Commercial's latest Safety and Shipping Review, incidents like the closure and reported mining of the Strait of Hormuz are the latest in a series of recent disruptions to have impacted shipping.

They signal a transition toward a "new maritime order" defined by escalating security risks along strategic shipping corridors, the disruption of established trade routes, persistent uncertainty, higher risk premiums, and a greater strategic emphasis on resilience over pure cost efficiency.

In addition to geopolitical uncertainty, traditional risks for the shipping industry remain a major concern, although the numbers of total vessel losses and incidents have continued to decline in recent years. Machinery damage or failure and fires are among the main loss drivers in this regard, leading to significant economic and insured losses.

"Our analysis shows the shipping industry has made significant improvements in maritime safety in recent years. However, it has also undergone a fundamental transformation, from decades of relative stability, defined by steady trade flows and largely predictable operating conditions to becoming increasingly complex and volatile. The Middle East conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure is just the latest in a series of severe interruptions to hit shipowners and cargo operators. Resilience, geopolitics, and efficiency must be balanced in an increasingly unpredictable world, where the cost of uncertainty is reshaping the shipping industry," explains Thomas Lillelund, CEO of Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitical uncertainty becomes top risk for shipping industry

The conflict in the Middle East paralyzed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil trade route. Allianz Research data shows that around 1,150 cargo-carrying vessels (over 100GT*) with an estimated vessel and cargo value of approximately $125 billion, a volume of 29 million GT, and as many as 20,000 seafarers are in the Persian Gulf waiting to resume operations following recent diplomatic breakthroughs. This underscores the structural importance of maritime chokepoints and how critical they are for shipping and international trade, while also highlighting the severe disruptions to vessel operations and mental strain that has been placed on those seafarers who have endured months on board facing the threat of attack.

Marine insurance cover has been available throughout the conflict, albeit at increased hull and cargo premiums. However, the real issue for shipowners has been more about the risk to the crew and the vessel when transiting a conflict zone, rather than pure insurance considerations. Even if the US and Iran agreement holds and the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, solid assurances of safe passage will be required, involving the international community, particularly if traffic is to return to its pre-war levels, up to as many as 140 vessels a day.

"We are seeing growing uncertainty around shipping routes. Any type of event - a conflict, pandemic or a grounded vessel blocking a key port or shipping canal - can potentially cause a major disruption to shipping and supply chains. The events in the Middle East have been more impactful than many would have expected. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous precedent and raises questions around the long-term future of this and other critical chokepoints. What is becoming clear is that we have to pay a price for uncertainty, shifting from 'just-in-time' to 'just-in-case' supply chains, and prioritizing resilience over cost efficiency," says Captain Rahul Khanna, Global Head of Marine Risk Consulting at Allianz Commercial.

Total loss and incident numbers decline despite industry headwinds

The review's latest analysis shows that there have been more than 900 total losses reported over the past decade (vessels over 100GT). Between 2016 and the end of 2020, there were 555, an average of 111 per year. This number declined to 350 between 2021 and the end of 2025, an average of 70 (37% down on the previous five-year period), reflecting the positive effect of an increased focus on safety measures over time - 43 total losses have been reported in 2025, with more than 30 of these vessels over 500GT. The South China, Indochina, Indonesia, and the Philippines region is the main loss hotspot globally over the past year, and the past decade (255). A huge volume of imports and exports flow through the region, resulting in high levels of shipping traffic, which is reflected in the number of incidents.

Around the world, the number of shipping incidents declined over the past year by around 16% (2,818 in 2025 compared to 3,353 in 2024). The East Mediterranean and Black Sea region saw the highest number (622), followed by the British Isles (619), which is also the location of the most incidents over the past decade. Machinery damage or failure was the major cause of shipping incidents globally, accounting for over half (1,505), followed by vessel collision (260). Fires on large vessels, including container ships and car carriers, remain a worry. There were more than 200 incidents on large vessels reported during 2025, down from 2024, but still the second highest total over the past decade, with at least nine total losses reported.

The increasing size of vessels is also driving a trend for a rise in general average claims, where the shipowner and cargo interests share losses or expenditure to save the whole venture in an emergency. Such claims are typically complex and large. Contributions to cover losses can be as high as 50% of the cargo value, which if a vessel is carrying a few thousand electric cars, for example, could easily be over US$100mn.

"Insurance markets react quickly to crises, but the real challenge for companies is understanding how risks are interconnected. That's why resilience and risk management are becoming just as important as insurance coverage. The shipping industry is facing turbulent times, not only from geopolitical instability, but also from traditional hull and machinery risks, where we see claims costs continue to rise, as well as from decarbonization and fleet renewal challenges. Our role as an insurer is to support our clients as both a risk carrier and a resilience partner to mitigate risks before they become a damaging loss event," says Justus Heinrich, Global Product Leader Marine Hull at Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitics and high demand drive trend for older vessels

The average age of the global fleet increased to 23 years in 2025, up from around 20 years old just before the Covid-19 pandemic, as shipowners retain vessels for longer due to the volatile geopolitical climate. Conflict in the Middle East has seen tankers and container ships stranded and rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, for example, resulting in longer transit times and a squeeze on existing fleet capacity.

Older vessels pose significant safety risks at sea, with vessels over 20 years old accounting for over half of all safety incidents, analysis shows. As ships age, the likelihood of incidents increases due to structural, mechanical, and technological obsolescence, creating risks for crew, cargo, and the environment.

"Shipowners are under pressure to scrap older vessels and replace them with new, more efficient, safer and compliant ships. However, the recent pushback against net zero targets and full order books at the major Asian shipyards are other factors which could ensure the average age of vessels is likely to remain elevated in the near term," says Captain Nitin Chopra, Senior Marine Risk Consultant, Allianz Commercial.

About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world's largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, financial strength, and network of the world's #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what's ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and alternative risk transfer solutions, outstanding risk consulting and Multinational services as well as seamless claims handling.

Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2025, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around ?17.3 billion in gross premium globally. https://commercial.allianz.com/

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

Hashtags: #Allianz

ArenaPlus' Erick Su highlights long-term value, responsible VIP management at SiGMA Asia Summit 2026

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:44:00 +0700

MANILA, Philippines, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ArenaPlus Head Erick Su emphasized that successful VIP management goes beyond short-term revenue generation, underscoring the importance of building long-term customer relationships while maintaining strong compliance and responsible gaming standards.

Su shared these insights during the session "High Rollers, High Risk: Where VIP Strategy Meets Compliance" at the SiGMA Asia Summit 2026 on Tuesday, June 2, just a day after ArenaPlus was named Best Sportsbook Operator for the second consecutive year at the SiGMA Asia Awards 2026.

When asked how ArenaPlus identifies VIP players, Su explained that the No. 1 PAGCOR-licensed online sportsbook in the Philippines takes a broader view than simply looking at spending levels. ArenaPlus VIPs are players whose engagement, insights, and feedback continue to help shape the platform's evolving features and rewards programs.

"When we define a VIP player, it's about what's your strategy for your customer? What's your relationship with your customer? You're focused on retention. So we have a different span of VIP players," said Su during the discussion on managing VIPs amid evolving regulatory requirements and enhanced due diligence measures.

"When we internally look at that, we would say, okay, even a medium-spending player who tends to be more loyal and long-term to us could be a VIP player."

He added: "So when we set up the VIP program and the rewards, we look at players not only in terms of the short-term revenue they're going to generate, but also whether they are potential long-term value players for us."

In the same panel discussion, Su also emphasized the role of compliance in VIP management, noting that ArenaPlus follows regulatory requirements while continuously monitoring player activity and betting behavior.

According to Su, unusual transaction patterns, sudden shifts in betting behavior, and unusually large wagers can all prompt closer review.

"From an operational perspective, we also always monitor transaction behavior and players' betting behavior to identify VIPs. Then, we will see if there's any suspicious or abnormal behavior that may require intervention before a trigger is reached. So that's what we constantly monitor," he said.

"You will face some issues where some VIP players suddenly change their behavior. It may indicate the risk of a betting syndicate becoming involved and getting a VIP account because they want to hit your book. From another perspective, you may also see players in the live casino dumping big amounts of bets. Those situations can trigger alarms, and based on our analysis of the behavior, we decide whether to conduct enhanced KYC (Know Your Customer) checks."

That's why Su stressed the importance of VIP managers, who serve as the primary link between the platform and high-value customers.

"We should have a VIP manager or personal account manager already reach out to players once they have been identified as VIPs. So you build a good personal relationship with them and, if at some stage you need to conduct enhanced checks, request more documents, or intervene in some way, it's easier for them to collaborate with you," he said.

"But we also shouldn't take the risk of not properly checking players when it should be done. It's not good for the business and, in the long term, it creates a much higher operational risk."

At the same time, Su cautioned operators and VIP managers against prioritizing short-term gains over long-term customer value, saying this mindset could lead to costly mistakes.

"Some VIP managers may try to get short-term revenue rather than long-term customer lifetime value because you don't know whether a player is going to leave the platform next week, next month, or next year," he said. "As a result, you might prioritize generating revenue in the short term rather than looking at the bigger picture of the customer's long-term value."

"So I think that has triggered a lot of mistakes because, if you're short-sighted, you can ignore compliance, overlook operational risks, and fail to identify whether someone is a real VIP player or not. I mean, in sports betting, some high-turnover players don't really mean high-revenue players. If you keep your mindset focused on short-term goals, you can make a lot of mistakes."

SiGMA is a global gaming and technology platform with a portfolio spanning Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, North America, and Southeast Asia.

About ArenaPlus

ArenaPlus is the #1 PAGCOR-licensed online sportsbook in the Philippines, providing a secure and engaging sports betting and streaming experience. Launched in 2023, ArenaPlus features a wide range of local and international sports and continues to expand its presence through key partnerships across major leagues, including the NBA, PBA, and PVL.

Press Contact

Fraulein Olavario

Communications Manager, ArenaPlus

fraulein.olavario@digiplus.com.ph

Bitget Launches Stock+, Bringing Real US Stocks to Crypto-Native Investors

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:22:00 +0700

VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched Stock+, a new feature under its Stocks 2.0 ecosystem that enables users to purchase real US stocks directly using USDC and other digital assets.

The launch marks another step toward a future where crypto and traditional financial markets operate within the same account, allowing users to move between digital assets and equities without the fragmentation that has historically separated the two worlds.

For decades, access to US equities has depended on local brokers, bank transfers, account approvals, and jurisdiction-specific infrastructure. Stock+ introduces a different model. Users can fund their accounts with digital assets, convert them into USDC, and gain exposure to publicly listed companies through a streamlined, crypto-native experience. The result is a trading environment where global markets become increasingly accessible from a single platform.

Unlike synthetic products or derivatives, Stock+ provides ownership of underlying shares executed through regulated brokers. Users are eligible for cash dividends and stock split adjustments associated with their holdings, while trading hours remain synchronized with US pre-market, regular market, and after-hours sessions.

"Bitget was among the first exchanges to bring together crypto, tokenized assets, commodities, and equities under the Universal Exchange vision. Stock+ is the next evolution of that strategy," said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. "Access is important, but ownership matters too. Giving users access to real ownership of US-listed companies is how we actually bridge financial markets. The platforms that succeed will be the ones that combine access, ownership, and flexibility in a single experience."

Stock+ also supports inbound stock transfers from participating brokers through standard transfer processes, allowing users to consolidate existing US equity holdings within a unified portfolio environment. Combined with crypto-funded purchasing, the feature expands the ways investors can access and manage traditional financial assets through Bitget.

With Stock+, Bitget adds direct ownership of US-listed equities to its growing suite of stock market products, further advancing its vision of a Universal Exchange where crypto and traditional financial markets coexist within a single platform.

In early June 2026, Bitget announced a major 2.0 upgrade to its stock-related services, kicking off with the launch of Reality, a regulated RWA protocol, and its issued tokenized stocks (rToken). To date, Bitget has listed over 500 leading US stocks and ETFs, including SpaceX, Tesla, and NVIDIA, with the Assets Under Management (AUM) of rToken exceeding $50 million. The introduction of Stock+ marks another pivotal step in the Bitget Stocks 2.0 evolution, offering users accustomed to traditional brokerage experiences a more seamless and intuitive interface for transfers and trading.

To celebrate the launch, Stock+ trading fees start from 0.1%, with a 50% promotional discount available through August 31, 2026.

To find out more, 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, 100+ 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 with LALIGA and 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 more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord

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

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