In the 2040s, accelerating decommissioning will drive solar and wind installations higher even as demand growth stabilises - because ageing capacity must be replaced at scale.

LONDON/HOUSTON/SINGAPORE, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- INSIGHT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wood Mackenzie | www.woodmac.com

More than 3.5 terawatts (TW) of global wind and solar capacity is operational, but as first-generation equipment ages, a further 2.5 TW of projects will face a stark decision for owners by the 2040s: abandon the site, invest to extend its life, or renew it entirely. How that decision plays out will have a profound impact on renewable energy targets, power prices and the economics of the energy transition, according to Wood Mackenzie's latest Horizons report.

According to the report, "Renewing renewables: The next chapter in the energy transition," decommissioning has already begun in the wind industry. By the end of 2026, more than 30 GW of wind capacity will have been decommissioned worldwide, two-thirds of which was brought offline between 2022 and 2026. Solar began its rapid deployment later than wind, but its ageing fleet is set to overtake wind before 2040.

Repowering offers a compelling economic case. Because a site already has an existing grid connection, planning approval and community acceptance, new equipment can reach the market faster than a greenfield project, bypassing the queue and permitting delays that have slowed new development in many markets. The capital and operating expenditures are broadly similar to greenfield development, but the economic advantage of repowering extends to other factors, such as the location, cost efficiencies and power output. 

The quality of established sites makes that advantage significant. In Germany, the wind speeds at sites decommissioned so far this decade are 4% higher than those at greenfield projects coming online on average and the gap can be as wide as 30%. A 4% increase in wind speeds translates into roughly 7% higher capacity factors and 7% lower levelised cost of energy (LCOE), all else being equal.

This dynamic is already reshaping how companies approach the market. A growing number of developers are acquiring operational projects in prime locations, decommissioning the existing equipment and installing an entirely new project on the same site ? a trend that is becoming increasingly common in markets such as Europe and the US, where land availability, grid capacity or planning approval for new development is constrained.

"We are entering a new chapter in the energy transition, one defined not just by power demand growth, but by renewal," said S?ren Lassen, Head of Wind at Wood Mackenzie. "Without installations replacing decommissioned projects, global wind and solar deployment would continue to decline year-on-year. By acknowledging this impact, it will fundamentally change the long-term trajectory and narrative of renewables and hopefully also company and government strategies."

Renewable targets tested

The implications extend well beyond individual asset owners. Governments across the world are setting renewable capacity targets without accounting for decommissioning and that blind spot could make already ambitious goals even harder to reach. At the same time, policy incentives for repowering are limited to a handful of wind markets, incentivising asset owners to pursue longer operational lifetimes instead of reinvesting in their operational portfolios.

The European Commission has targeted 500 GW of wind power by 2030, requiring roughly 37 GW of annual additions between 2023 and 2030. Wood Mackenzie forecasts that 17 GW will be decommissioned in that same period, meaning the bloc must add an extra 2 GW per year on average simply to offset losses, on top of a build rate it is already failing to meet.

Price reverberations

The market consequences will be just as significant. In Germany, the increased power output from repowering existing sites with new modules and turbines could reduce power prices by between 12% and 19% in the 2040s. That is a material downside risk for asset owners whose projects will have moved off long-term contracts and onto merchant revenues or corporate power purchase agreements by that point, making repowering a critical variable in long-term project economics, not just an operational decision.

Equipment suppliers prepare for rising demand

For equipment suppliers, the picture is more counterintuitive. Even as the rate of growth in net capacity additions slows, Wood Mackenzie estimates that the volume of actual equipment sales will be more than 60% higher in 2050 than in 2026, driven by the need to replace ageing assets at scale. In the 2040s alone, replacements from decommissioning will account for 44% of all wind installations and 23% of all solar installations globally. In some established markets in Europe, it could even reach more than 70%.

"The full force of this shift arrives in the 2040s, but the decisions that will determine who is ready for it are being made right now," said Lassen. "Governments that ignore decommissioning in their targets will miss them. Suppliers that do not plan for replacement demand will be caught short. And asset owners who do not factor repowering into their long-term power price forecasts risk fundamentally misjudging the revenue environment they will be operating in."

Read the entire report here.

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.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

The students were excited to receive a personal reply from President Xi Jinping after sharing in a letter what their week in China had meant to them, reinforcing the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation's belief in the power of youth exchanges to foster lasting people-to-people ties between the two nations

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 September 2026 - With U.S. and Chinese leaders preparing to meet in Washington D.C. this week, nearly 100 American college students from 10 universities were making a statement of their own.

Writing to President Xi Jinping at the close of a week-long exchange program in China, the students shared how the experience had shaped their understanding of both nations - and expressed their hope of serving as "ambassadors of friendship across the Pacific" by carrying their stories, new friendships, and insights home. On September 21, President Xi replied personally, encouraging young people from both countries to carry forward friendship and work toward a better shared future.

The students were participants in the Future Makers 2026 China-U.S. Youth Tour for a Shared Asia-Pacific Future, organized by the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation and the Beijing NGO Network for International Exchanges. From September 1?7, the program brought together 170 young people from China and the United States for seven days of cultural exploration, direct dialogue, and technology visits across Jinan, Qufu, and Beijing.

Participating institutions included American University, Central Michigan University, Columbia University, Harvard University, Kentucky State University, Saint Peter's University, the University of California Davis, the University of California Riverside, the University of Chicago, and the University of Washington.

Jackson Kreisner, a student from American University, said: "I can say, with firsthand experience, that American and Chinese youth are much more similar than we are different - we listen to the same music, eat the same food, feel the same emotions, share the same dreams."

Ainsley Reigler, a student from Central Michigan University, said: "Being able to sit across from students from different universities and backgrounds and discuss our perspectives on the future of U.S.-China relations, global cooperation, and the role our generation can play in building bridges was an experience I could never have replicated in a classroom."

Before the trip, many of the participants said they knew China primarily through headlines and social media. What they found was, in their own words, "the real China" - young people who laugh at the same jokes, carry the same pressures, and dream the same dreams. In Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius, American and Chinese students explored together how the Confucian concept of "harmony in diversity" remains relevant in today's cross-cultural exchanges.

At Tsinghua University in Beijing, participants exchanged views on youth responsibility, technological innovation, and Asia-Pacific cooperation, building mutual understanding through open and candid conversations. The program also offered participants a close look at China's advances in technology and innovation. Visits to Beijing E-Town Robot World, the Beijing High-Level Autonomous Driving Demonstration Area, and the Xiaomi Auto Factory provided firsthand insights into humanoid robotics, autonomous driving technologies, and advanced manufacturing.

A highlight of the program was the establishment of the "Forest for Tomorrow" at Yanqi Lake in Beijing, where American and Chinese youth planted white-bark pine trees together, symbolizing enduring friendship between the younger generations of the two countries.

The Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation fully funded the program for all American participants, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to experience China firsthand. In partnership with the Beijing NGO Network for International Exchanges, the initiative seeks to enable students from diverse backgrounds to experience China firsthand.

Mr. Daryl Ng, Director of the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation and Chairman of Sino Group, said: "During the program, I had the opportunity to join the American participants on a visit to the Temple of Heaven and spend time speaking with them directly. I was deeply impressed by their curiosity about Chinese culture and their interest in the country's development. Inspired by President Xi's message, we will continue to support international youth exchanges and dialogue, and do our part to foster greater understanding, friendship, and people-to-people connections across borders. We will also leverage Hong Kong's unique role as a 'super-connector' to further strengthen exchanges between China and the rest of the world."

About Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation

The Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation was established in 2010 in memory of the late founder of the Sino Group and Far East Organisation in Singapore, Mr. Ng Teng Fong. The Foundation focuses on supporting education, healthcare, arts and culture, heritage conservation, emergency relief and community services for less resourced communities, promoting sustainable growth and the betterment of society. Since its establishment, the Foundation has made donations of more than RMB 2.4 billion to a wide variety of charitable causes across China (Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland), Singapore, and overseas.

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

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Building confidence in the natural diamond category with industry partners, guided by the Building Forever and diamond traceability strategies

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 24 September 2026 - 16 to 19 September, De Beers Group participated in Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW), presenting an immersive experience centred on Desert diamonds. Drawing inspiration from the wonders of nature and the artistry of human craftsmanship, the showcase created a captivating space that brought the story of natural diamonds to life.

Following its successful Asian debut in Shanghai in July, Desert diamonds returned to Hong Kong as De Beers Group's first major beacon initiative in more than a decade and its largest category-marketing investment in 15 years. The activation reaffirmed the Group's commitment to strengthening long-term confidence in the natural diamond category, working alongside strategic partners across the value chain and guided by its Building Forever sustainability framework and diamond traceability strategy.

Industry leaders convene to shape the future

De Beers Group Chief Executive Officer Al Cook, Executive Vice President of Diamond Trading Paul Rowley, General Manager of Natural Diamonds Lynn Serfaty and Vice President of Natural Diamonds APAC Loletta Lai attended the Group's breakfast meeting, where they exchanged views with industry partners from around the world.

Distinguished guests included Lekoko S. Kenosi, Ambassador of Botswana to China; Lin Qiang, President of the Shanghai Diamond Exchange; Nosiphiwo Mzamo, Chief Executive Officer of the State Diamond Trader of South Africa; Amber Pepper, Chief Executive Officer of the Natural Diamond Council; Jillian Wolk, Chief Executive Officer of Tracr and Annie Wong, Chief Operating Officer of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group. Together with De Beers Group leadership and other attendees, they discussed future opportunities and areas for collaboration across the natural diamond industry.

"We firmly believe that natural diamonds have an enduring future, and we remain confident in the long-term opportunity presented by the Chinese market. China has always been one of De Beers Group's most important markets. For more than half a century, we have built deep and enduring relationships with retailers, consumers, governments and industry partners. We continue to invest in China and launched our Desert diamonds category-marketing initiative in July this year. The campaign has already delivered encouraging results in the US market and is showing strong momentum in China. Looking ahead, we invite our industry colleagues to work together to strengthen consumer confidence in the long-term value of natural diamonds," said Al Cook, Chief Executive Officer of De Beers Group.

"The natural diamond market is gradually stabilising. Supply and demand are moving towards equilibrium, while diamond prices are showing signs of recovery. The US market remains resilient and the Chinese market is also beginning to stabilise, while India, Europe, Japan and the Gulf markets are providing further momentum for industry growth. Global annual natural diamond production has declined from a peak of approximately 170 million carats to around 100 million carats.

Effective supply management is essential to restoring market balance. Looking ahead, the industry must continue to invest in detection, grading and traceability systems, enabling consumers to distinguish clearly between natural and laboratory-grown diamonds, while advancing collective category marketing and industry collaboration." said Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President of Diamond Trading at De Beers Group.

"Desert diamonds are such a gift. They resonate with Chinese philosophies of resilience, transcendence and harmony between humanity and nature, while building a bridge between southern Africa and China. Through the Asian launch of Desert diamonds, retailer partnerships, social media communications and media engagement, we aim to further support China's focus on quality consumption and help more consumers understand and appreciate the enduring value of natural diamonds," says Lynn Serfaty, Managing Director of Natural Diamonds at De Beers Group shared her perspective on the emotional and cultural resonance of natural diamonds in China.

An immersive journey from earth to adornment

Following the breakfast meeting, De Beers Group officially unveiled its Show & Tell experience, inviting global industry guests on an immersive journey that combined visual, tactile and emotional storytelling.

Visitors entering the space were transported through the changing light of a vast desert landscape. Exterior screens depicted rolling sand dunes, while the interior brought together contemporary exhibition design and traditional Chinese bamboo-weaving craftsmanship, an element of China's intangible cultural heritage.

Artist Xu Mingyu created sharply faceted geometric display cases inspired by the precision of natural diamond cuts. The woven textures echoed the intricate patterns formed on desert surfaces by the passage of time. Through this dialogue between ancient Eastern craftsmanship and the untamed poetry of natural diamonds, the installation connected heritage, nature and contemporary design.

The Show & Tell experience unfolded across five narrative chapters, creating a sensory journey from the earth to the wearer's hand.

At the Desert diamonds display, loose natural diamonds were presented along a spectrum of warm, earthy hues, recalling the layered tones of the desert landscape. The distinctive colours of Desert diamonds arise naturally from subtle variations in nitrogen content and plastic deformation, giving every stone an entirely individual appearance and personality. No two Desert diamonds are alike, just as every person's story is unique.

In a rapidly changing digital age, younger consumers are increasingly drawn to authenticity and permanence. Formed over billions of years, natural diamonds embody this pursuit through their inherent rarity and individuality. At the exhibition, retail partners presented Desert diamonds jewellery collections including Chow Tai Fook's Desert Rose collection, Kashikey, represented by Chow Sang Sang, and alongside classic three-stone and five-stone designs.

Guests then moved to the Tracr area to explore the digital identity of a registered natural diamond. From mine to retail, the origin and journey of each diamond can be recorded and traced. A dedicated science and technology zone featured a range of De Beers Group's detection instruments, enabling guests to see first-hand how natural diamonds can be differentiated from laboratory-grown diamonds.

The journey also highlighted De Beers Group's long-standing conservation work. A dedicated rhino conservation area showcased decades of commitment to habitat protection, species breeding and relocation, bringing the Group's Building Forever sustainability commitment to life in a tangible and meaningful way.

The experience concluded with a multi-sensory exploration of Desert diamonds. A fragrance experience inspired by the vast desert landscape evoked the interplay between the beauty of the desert and the brilliance of diamonds, while interactive quizzes invited guests to discover their own natural diamond aura.

Advancing trust through collaboration and traceability

During the exhibition, De Beers Group also participated actively in a series of industry exchange activities, engaging with value-chain partners to explore the opportunities and future direction of the natural diamond industry.

At the Natural Diamond Value Chain Repositioning and Outlook Forum, jointly organised by the Natural Diamond Council and the Hong Kong Diamond Federation, participants from across the industry exchanged insights on the evolution of the natural diamond value chain and its future prospects.

Meanwhile, at the Brilliant Convergence: Envisioning the Future of Jewellery Design seminar hosted by the Hong Kong Diamond Federation, Loletta Lai, Vice President of Natural Diamonds APAC at De Beers Group, joined jewellery designers and industry representatives to discuss how natural diamonds can continue to inspire contemporary jewellery design and sustain their appeal in an evolving market landscape.

In addition, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) presented "The Beauty of Natural Diamonds" exhibition during the show, inviting visitors to explore the formation and unique beauty of natural diamonds through a scientific lens.

Through diamond fluorescence, microscopic images of inclusions and growth features, as well as GIA Diamond Grading Reports, the exhibition revealed the unique "natural fingerprint" of every natural diamond. Notably, ahead of this year's exhibition, GIA completed its acquisition of a 30% shareholding in the Tracr diamond traceability blockchain platform, an important milestone for the natural diamond industry.

This strategic collaboration supports Tracr's evolution into independent industry infrastructure, providing dual assurance through diamond grading and origin traceability, and laying a strong foundation for a more transparent and trusted future for the natural diamond industry.

Extending the industry conversation into a jewellery experience, De Beers Group also invited members of the media and fashion community to visit the De Beers London Hong Kong flagship boutique, where they experienced the beauty and distinctive appeal of natural diamond jewellery through an immersive journey. Behind the brilliance of every natural diamond lies a traceable journey, from its origin at the mine to the careful craftsmanship applied through sustainable practices.

Every stage reflects De Beers Group's unwavering commitment to exceptional quality and sustainability. Through jewellery try-ons and expert-led guidance, guests experienced first-hand how natural diamonds are being reinterpreted in a contemporary fashion context, deepening their emotional connection with appreciation of the category.

Guided by the enduring belief that "A Diamond Is Forever," De Beers Group's presence at this year's Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong not only demonstrated the continuing vitality and broad potential of natural diamonds in the global market but also created an emotionally resonant natural diamond journey for industry partners and consumers through the storytelling platform of Desert diamonds. The initiative brought new depth and warmth to natural diamond category education.

Looking ahead, De Beers Group will continue to work with industry partners worldwide, with its Building Forever sustainability framework and diamond traceability strategy serving as two key pillars in advancing the natural diamond industry towards a more transparent and sustainable new era.

Through the interplay of art and culture, every natural diamond formed deep within the earth can shine ever more brightly in its time, continuing a timeless story of enduring beauty.

For more information on natural diamonds, please follow and visit the official channels below:

De Beers Group official website www.debeersgroup.com

Natural Diamonds Instagram @ADiamondisForeverhk

Website: www.adiamondisforever.com/zh-hk

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world's leading diamond company, with unrivalled expertise in the exploration, mining, sales and marketing of diamonds. Together with its partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond value chain. It is the world's largest diamond producer by value, with mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa.

Innovation sits at the heart of the Group's strategy, underpinning a portfolio of brands including De Beers London and Forevermark, as well as pioneering solutions such as Gem Fair and Tracr, its diamond mining and traceability programmes. De Beers Group provides education and laboratory services through the De Beers Institute of Diamonds, and its Ignite team has introduced a range of technology systems for diamond sorting, detection and classification, delivering quality service and advanced technology to the diamond industry. De Beers Group is a member of Anglo American plc. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About Building Forever

In 2020 De Beers Group established a set of sustainability goals to deliver a blueprint for lasting positive impact in the countries and regions where it operates and across the diamond value chain, so that every diamond it discovers and recovers brings enduring benefit to the people and environments of the places it comes from.

Building Forever sets out a comprehensive framework built on four pillars: leading ethical practices across the industry, partnering for thriving communities, protecting the natural world and accelerating equal opportunity - guiding the Group towards a fairer, safer, cleaner and healthier future in which communities prosper and the environment is protected. De Beers Group works to raise industry standards, improve transparency of diamond provenance and improve conditions for artisanal miners.

Across its operations, the Group follows best practice in biodiversity, water management, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, and mine closure and rehabilitation. De Beers Group also works with stakeholders to build a sustainable future and to raise living standards in the communities where it operates, particularly in health and wellbeing, education and skills development, economic diversification and livelihood support.

The Group actively promotes inclusive economic development and welcomes diverse perspectives to help shape the future of its business, its communities and wider society. It places particular emphasis on addressing the industry's long-standing gender imbalance and on encouraging a new and more diverse generation of talent into the diamond and jewellery industry.

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

Hashtags: #DeBeersGroup #ADiamondIsForever #NaturalDiamonds #Desertdiamonds #Diamonds

WUHAN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 September 2026 - The Global Mayors Dialogue ? Wuhan and the 2026 Wuhan International Friendship Cities Cooperation Conference, held from Sept. 18 to 21, brought together 80 international guests from 24 cities across 22 countries, according to organizers.

At the event, mayors and city representatives from six international sister cities of Wuhan called for closer cooperation in technology, industry, education and culture.

Representatives from Manchester in Britain, Kemi in Finland, Cape Town in South Africa, Yangon in Myanmar, Rzesz?w in Poland and Turkistan in Kazakhstan took part in discussions on urban innovation, industrial cooperation and cultural exchange.

Manchester: a new start after 40 years of friendship

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the sister-city relationship between Wuhan and Manchester.

Shaukat Ali, lord mayor of Manchester, said the city was ready to deepen cooperation with Wuhan in education, culture, youth affairs, innovation and industry.

"Manchester is committed to promoting urban transformation through open cooperation, sharing opportunities, and fostering common development with international sister cities like Wuhan," he said.

Ali said Manchester had developed from a post-industrial city into an innovation-oriented economy, with a focus on advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, life sciences and green technologies.

He said the two cities could share experience in urban transformation, innovation districts, university-industry cooperation and low-carbon development, while encouraging links among universities, businesses and research institutions.

He also highlighted existing educational and cultural links, including cooperation between Hubei University and Manchester Metropolitan University and exchanges between the Royal Northern College of Music and Wuhan Conservatory of Music.

Kemi: balancing growth with environmental protection

Mikko Koivulehto, chairman of the City Council of Kemi, said the Finnish city sought to balance economic growth with environmental protection.

"We believe that protecting nature and building a prosperous city can go hand in hand," he said.

Kemi, a port city in Finnish Lapland, has developed industries based on renewable raw materials, clean energy and the bioeconomy. The city is also seeking to expand tourism and improve livability.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the friendly exchange relationship between Wuhan and Kemi. The two cities have cooperated in areas including trade, the circular economy, tourism and youth exchanges.

Cape Town: technology and jobs key to urban transformation

Lungelo Mbandazayo, city manager of Cape Town, said technological innovation, talent development, infrastructure and green renewal were key to Wuhan's transformation.

Cape Town, a UNESCO City of Design, is seeking to expand its technology and digital sectors while promoting green technology and an inclusive economy.

Mbandazayo said youth unemployment remained a major challenge for Cape Town and that technological development needed to create jobs.

After visiting Wuhan companies and technology facilities, he said Cape Town hoped to deepen exchanges with Wuhan in technology and talent.

Yangon: seeking practical cooperation with Wuhan

Yangon Mayor Myo Myint Aung said the city was looking to Wuhan for experience in smart-city development, digital governance, intelligent transport and urban resilience.

Wuhan and Yangon signed a letter of intent on friendly exchanges and cooperation during the event.

Yangon is developing a long-term plan to accommodate population growth and expand its urban, industrial and transport infrastructure.

During a visit to Wuhan on Sept. 19, Myo toured the Optics Valley "Photon" suspended monorail, HGTECH and a Xiaomi smart home appliance factory.

"We came to Wuhan not just to observe, but to learn and cooperate," he said, adding that Yangon hoped to develop smart manufacturing and strengthen cooperation in information technology.

Rzesz?w: opportunities in aerospace and technology

Rzesz?w Mayor Konrad Fijołek said the Polish city hoped to cooperate with Wuhan in aerospace, sensor technology, biodiversity and climate action.

Rzesz?w is home to the "Aviation Valley," a major aerospace cluster in Central Europe.

"Exploring cooperation with Wuhan is the reason I came here," Fijołek said.

After visiting HGTECH and a Xiaomi smart home appliance factory, he said Wuhan's automated manufacturing and technologies in sensors and satellite systems had impressed him.

He said cities could help connect universities, businesses and research institutions and promote international cooperation.

Turkistan: five areas for cooperation

Turkestan Mayor Azimbek Pazylbekuly said his city hoped to expand cooperation with Wuhan in tourism and culture, education and science, investment and entrepreneurship, digitalization and innovation, and transport and logistics.

Wuhan and Turkistan signed a memorandum of intent on friendly exchanges and cooperation during the event.

Turkistan, an ancient Silk Road city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been developing industries including food processing, textiles, furniture and construction materials.

Pazylbekuly said cooperation between governments, businesses, universities and research institutions could help turn the two cities' exchanges into concrete projects.

The conference also included friendship-city anniversary celebrations and a signing ceremony for 10 cooperation projects. A digital list of cooperation opportunities and an initiative on international friendship-city cooperation were released.

During their stay, the visiting mayors toured Wuhan's technology, manufacturing and ecological facilities, including the Optics Valley suspended monorail, a Yangtze finless porpoise conservation center, Xiaomi, HGTECH and Dongfeng Motor facilities.

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

Hashtags: #wuhan

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 September 2026 - Great entrepreneurs are often defined by their willingness to question what others take for granted. For Mr. Somchai Akkarawittayapoom, President at Arkitektura Public Company Limited, curiosity has been a constant driving force throughout a career spanning technology, entrepreneurship, research, and luxury living.

His visionary leadership and commitment to continuous innovation have earned him the Master Entrepreneur award recognition at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2026 Thailand, organized by Enterprise Asia.

Mr. Somchai began his professional career as a Systems Engineer at IBM in 1991 before advancing to Sales Director at Sun Microsystems (Thailand). His experience at the intersection of technology and business laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial journey, leading him to co-found technology system integration companies MFEC Public Co., Ltd. and Tangerine Co., Ltd.

In 2003, Mr. Somchai founded Arkitektura, bringing his analytical and systematic approach into Thailand's high-end furniture and luxury living sector. Under his leadership, the company has evolved beyond conventional furniture retailing into a comprehensive platform combining internationally recognised furniture, kitchen, bathroom, and home lifestyle brands with project expertise and personalised service. Its capabilities now extend across retail, residential, hospitality, and large-scale projects.

His passion for innovation extends well beyond business. Mr. Somchai is the inventor of Mappage, a knowledge-mapping and spatial-visualization technology protected by six U.S. patents and multiple international patents. He also pursues independent research into mathematical and knowledge systems, reflecting a lifelong commitment to exploring new ways of understanding complex ideas and creating value.

A significant milestone in his entrepreneurial journey came with Arkitektura's transition into a publicly listed company, marking a new chapter in its development and strengthening its foundation for future expansion. Today, Mr. Somchai envisions Arkitektura evolving beyond a destination for world-class furniture into a comprehensive platform for exceptional living, guided by the vision of "Elevating life to a realm of endless happiness".

With a career shaped by technology, entrepreneurship, and an enduring pursuit of knowledge, Mr. Somchai continues to challenge conventional thinking and explore new possibilities. Through Arkitektura, he is building not simply a business, but a long-term vision for how design, innovation, craftsmanship, and service can come together to create more meaningful living experiences.

About Enterprise Asia

Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.

About Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards

Launched in 2007, the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards is the region's most prestigious award for outstanding entrepreneurship, continuous innovation, and sustainable leadership. The Award provides a platform for companies and governments to recognize entrepreneurial excellence, hence spurring greater innovation, fair business practices, and growth in entrepreneurship.

As a regional award, it groups together leading entrepreneurs as a powerful voice for entrepreneurship and serves as a by-invitation-only networking powerhouse. The program has grown to encompass 16 countries/ regions and markets all over Asia. For further information, please visit www.apea.asia.

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

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Developed by 25-year-old founder Ufuk Girit's Lefto Studio and published by Istanbul-based TARK Games, BOMBANANA! adds to a growing wave of globally successful PC games emerging from Turkiye

ISTANBUL, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Turkiye has spent much of the past decade building a global reputation as one of the world's most dynamic mobile gaming ecosystems. Now, a new generation of independent developers is beginning to make its mark on PC.

The latest example is BOMBANANA!, a three-player co-op party game developed by Turkiye-based Lefto Studio and published by TARK Games, which surpassed one million copies sold within its first ten days on Steam.

BOMBANANA!'s launch followed an already strong pre-release trajectory. Prior to launch, the title had surpassed one million Steam wishlists and attracted more than six million demo players worldwide.

The game is the first title released by TARK Games, Turkiye's first VC-backed (led by Ludus Ventures) independent PC and console publisher founded in Istanbul in 2025 with an international publishing mandate.

From mobile powerhouse to emerging PC ecosystem

T?rkiye is already well established within the global games industry.

Over the past decade, the country has produced some of mobile gaming's most notable companies and exits, creating a deep pool of developers, entrepreneurs, and game-making talent.

More recently, that momentum has begun to expand beyond mobile.

Titles including Supermarket Simulator and Liar's Bar have demonstrated that independent developers from Turkiye can also reach large global audiences on PC. BOMBANANA! now joins that group, reinforcing what TARK Games believes is the beginning of a broader structural shift.

Ilker Ergen, Co-Founder of TARK Games, said:

"Turkiye is widely recognized for what it has achieved in mobile games, and rightly so. But the talent, entrepreneurial culture and game development expertise built over the past decade are not limited to mobile. We are now starting to see more of that capability translate into PC and console."

"Supermarket Simulator, Liar's Bar and now BOMBANANA! are early signals of something much bigger. There are a large number of small, highly capable teams here with the potential to build games for global audiences. We believe Turkiye can become a meaningful source of independent PC and console games over the coming years."

A 25-year-old indie developer behind a global breakout

BOMBANANA! was developed by Lefto Studio, which was founded by 25-year-old Ufuk Girit.

The game is built around a simple communication-driven premise. Three players take on the roles of monkeys who are blind, deaf, and mute, with each player holding only part of the information required to defuse a bomb.

The result is a co-op experience built around communication, misunderstanding, and the unpredictable moments that emerge between friends.

Ufuk Girit, Founder of Lefto Studio, said:

"From the beginning, we wanted to build something simple to understand but capable of creating completely different moments every time people played together. The fun in BOMBANANA! comes from the players themselves - from how they communicate, misunderstand each other and solve problems together."

"The response during the demo period was far beyond what we initially imagined. Millions of players tried the game, shared it with their friends and gave us feedback that helped shape the final experience. Seeing that translate into the launch we have had has been incredibly rewarding for a small independent team."

A global publisher built around independent studios

BOMBANANA! is the first release from TARK Games, founded in 2025 by Ilker Ergen and Ibrahim Yildirim.

While headquartered in Istanbul, TARK Games was built from the outset as an international publisher rather than a publisher focused exclusively on Turkish studios. The company currently has 10 games in its publishing pipeline, with approximately half being developed by teams outside Turkiye.

Its portfolio reflects a broader strategy: to identify distinctive independent teams wherever they are based and provide the financing, publishing infrastructure and international reach required to compete in the global PC and console market.

TARK Games works with developers across areas including development financing, production, player research, marketing, creator relations and global platform management.

A central part of its model is that TARK Games does not take equity in the development studios it publishes.

Ibrahim Yildirim, Co-Founder of TARK Games, said:

"When we founded TARK Games, one principle was very clear: we wanted to participate in the success of the game, not own part of the developer's company."

"For independent developers, ownership and creative freedom are incredibly important. We want the studio and its future to remain in the hands of its founders. Our role is to bring financing, production expertise, marketing, data and platform relationships around the team so that a strong game has the best possible chance of reaching a global audience."

"Our roots are in T?rkiye, but our publishing strategy has always been international. Today, roughly half of the games in our pipeline come from studios outside Turkiye. We want TARK Games to be a home for ambitious independent developers regardless of where they are based."

For Girit, that approach was one of the reasons Lefto Studio chose to work with TARK Games.

"As an independent developer, maintaining creative control and ownership of the studio mattered a lot to me. We were looking for a publisher that could expand what we were capable of doing without changing what made the team independent in the first place."

"TARK Games gave us support in areas like global marketing, platform relationships and launch strategy while allowing us to stay focused on building the game."

Turning individual breakouts into a repeatable model

TARK Games sees BOMBANANA! as an early validation of its publishing model rather than an isolated success.

Among its newly announced projects is Monster Cuisine, developed by another Turkish developer Team Machiavelli.

For TARK Games, Turkiye's emerging PC scene represents an important part of a much wider opportunity: a new generation of small independent studios around the world that can build commercially significant games but often lack the resources and publishing infrastructure required to scale them globally.

Ilker Ergen said:

"Our ambition is not to publish one breakout game, or to build a publisher around a single market. We want to create a repeatable model for helping exceptional independent teams reach global audiences."

"Turkiye is particularly exciting because we are seeing a new wave of PC and console talent emerge from an ecosystem that has already proven itself in mobile. But we see the same opportunity in many markets. Half of our current pipeline already comes from outside Turkiye, and that international mix is fundamental to what we are building."

"There are talented developers everywhere. What is often missing is the infrastructure around them: early financing, production support, market intelligence, publishing experience and access to global audiences. That is the gap we are trying to close."

BOMBANANA! is expanding beyond PC

Following its Steam launch, BOMBANANA! is also being prepared for console platforms, with BOMBANANA! launching on mobile devices in October.

The expansion is expected to bring the game to an even broader global audience following its initial PC success.

A press kit with key art, screenshots, trailer, and logos is available at https://uberstrategist.link/TARK-Games-Press-Kit.

About BOMBANANA!

BOMBANANA! is a three-player online co-op party game developed by Lefto Studio and published by TARK Games.

Players take on the roles of three monkeys who are blind, deaf, and mute, with each player possessing different pieces of information needed to defuse bombs before time runs out.

The game launched on Steam on September 2, 2026, and is currently being prepared for mobile and console platforms.

About Lefto Studio

Lefto Studio is an independent game development studio based in Turkiye and founded by 25-year-old developer Ufuk Girit.

The studio focuses on creating social, highly replayable games designed for global audiences.

About TARK Games

Founded in Istanbul in 2025 by Ilker Ergen and Ibrahim Yildirim, TARK Games is Turkiye's first VC-backed (Ludus Ventures) independent global publisher focused on PC and console games.

The company currently has 10 titles in its publishing pipeline, with approximately half developed by studios outside Turkiye.

TARK Games works with independent developers across development financing, production, player research, marketing, creator relations and global platform strategy.

The company operates a developer-first publishing model and does not take equity in the studios it publishes, allowing founders to retain ownership of their companies and creative independence.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

TEL AVIV, Israel and PARSIPPANY, N.J., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) announced today that its Q3 2026 Aide Memoire is available on the "Investors" page on its website.

Q3 2026 Aide Memoire

Teva has compiled this document with public information that was previously provided by Teva in order to assist investors ahead of third quarter 2026 results, which are expected to be released on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. ET, followed by a conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on the same day. This document is based on Teva's prior results, management's previous commentary about Teva's business outlook and data from select independent sources.

About Teva

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) is transforming into a leading innovative biopharmaceutical company, enabled by a world-class generics business. For over 120 years, Teva's commitment has never wavered.

From innovating in the fields of neuroscience and immunology to providing complex generic medicines, biosimilars and pharmacy brands worldwide, Teva is dedicated to addressing patients' needs, now and in the future. At Teva, We Are All In For Better Health. To learn more about how, visit www.tevapharm.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and the Aide Memoire document may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to: our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace; our significant indebtedness; our business and operations in general; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in this press release, and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter of 2026, and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements."

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Teva Media Inquiries

TevaCommunicationsNorthAmerica@tevapharm.com

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

TEL AVIV, Israel and PARSIPPANY, N.J., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) announced today that it will issue a press release on its third quarter 2026 financial results on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. ET. Following the release, Teva will conduct a conference call and live webcast on the same day, at 8:00 a.m. ET.

In order to participate, please register in advance here to obtain a local or toll-free phone number and your personal pin.

A live webcast of the call will be available on Teva's website at: https://ir.tevapharm.com/Events-and-Presentations.

Following the conclusion of the call, a replay of the webcast will be available within 24 hours on Teva's website.

About Teva

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) is transforming into a leading innovative biopharmaceutical company, enabled by a world-class generics business. For over 120 years, Teva's commitment to bettering health has never wavered. From innovating in the fields of neuroscience and immunology to providing complex generic medicines, biosimilars and pharmacy brands worldwide, Teva is dedicated to addressing patients' needs, now and in the future. At Teva, We Are All In For Better Health. To learn more about how, visit www.tevapharm.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Document and the presentation at the conference call may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that could cause our future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from that expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "should," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "target," "may," "project," "guidance," "intend," "plan," "believe" and other words and terms of similar meaning and expression in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance.

Important factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include risks relating to: our ability to successfully compete in the marketplace; our ability to successfully execute on our Pivot to Growth strategy, including to expand our innovative and biosimilar medicines pipeline and to profitably commercialize our innovative medicines and biosimilar portfolio, whether organically or through business development, to sustain and focus our portfolio of generic medicines, and to execute on our organizational transformation and to achieve expected cost savings; our significant indebtedness; our business and operations in general; compliance, regulatory and litigation matters; other financial and economic risks; and other factors discussed in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter of 2026, and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, including in the sections captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward Looking Statements."

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or other information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Teva Media Inquiries

TevaCommunicationsNorthAmerica@tevapharm.com

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

Conference call with Zymeworks management on September 28 at 8:30 am Eastern Time (ET)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zymeworks Inc. (Nasdaq: ZYME), a biotechnology company managing a portfolio of licensed healthcare assets while developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics, today completed the previously announced acquisition of Theravance Biopharma.

With the completion of the transaction, Theravance Biopharma is now part of Zymeworks, further advancing Zymeworks' strategy to build a diversified revenue-generating biotechnology company, combining innovative R&D with growing commercial and royalty-based cash flows.

Zymeworks will host a conference call with investors and the general public at 8:30 am ET on Monday, September 28, to discuss the final transaction details of the acquisition. Dial-in details and webcast link are available on Zymeworks' website at https://ir.zymeworks.com/events-and-presentations. A replay of the webcast will be available within 24 hours following the conclusion of the call and will remain archived for a limited period.

About Zymeworks Inc.

Zymeworks is a global biotechnology company building a diversified portfolio of healthcare assets designed to generate durable cash flows while advancing innovative medicines for difficult-to-treat diseases. Zymeworks' asset and royalty aggregation strategy combines a growing portfolio of commercial and near-commercial assets, including YUPELRI (revefenacin), with a differentiated internal research and development engine.

Zymeworks' portfolio also includes Ziihera (zanidatamab-hrii), a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody discovered and developed by Zymeworks and commercialized through global partnerships with Jazz Pharmaceuticals and BeOne Medicines, and pasritamig, a clinical-stage multispecific antibody developed by Johnson & Johnson using Zymeworks' proprietary antibody engineering technologies.

Zymeworks is advancing a diverse pipeline of novel biotherapeutics, leveraging its proprietary Azymetric platform and expertise in antibody-drug conjugates, multispecific antibodies and other next-generation antibody technologies. These capabilities, together with Zymeworks' integrated drug development expertise, enable Zymeworks to develop differentiated therapeutics and create value through both internal innovation and strategic partnerships.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" or information within the meaning of the applicable securities legislation, including Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Theravance Biopharma; the anticipated benefits of the financing in connection with the closing of the acquisition; anticipated milestone payments; completion of Theravance's previously announced organizational restructuring; Zymeworks' flexibility to invest in its R&D pipeline and pursue strategic opportunities while returning capital to stockholders; future growth of YUPELRI sales and future royalty payments; contingent milestone payments due to Theravance Biopharma from the sale of Theravance Biopharma's TRELEGY royalty interests; Zymeworks' expectations regarding implementation of its long-term strategy to maximize value creation; Zymeworks' and its partners' clinical development of product candidates; potential safety profile and therapeutic effects of product candidates; the commercial potential of technology platforms and product candidates; the anticipated benefits of its collaboration agreements; and other information that is not historical information. When used herein, words such as "plan", "believe", "expect", "may", "continue", "anticipate", "potential", "will", "on track", "progress", "preserve", "intend", "could", or the negative version of these words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements or information that refer to expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, performance or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking. All forward-looking statements are based upon Zymeworks' current expectations and various assumptions. Zymeworks believes there is a reasonable basis for its expectations and beliefs, but they are inherently uncertain. Zymeworks may not realize its expectations, and its beliefs may not prove correct.

Factors that could cause Zymeworks' actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: financial closing procedures, final adjustments, and other developments; risks related to the financing in connection with the closing of the acquisition; any of Zymeworks' or its partners' product candidates may fail in development, may not receive required regulatory approvals, or may be delayed to a point where they are not commercially viable; uncertainties regarding the commercial success of YUPELRI and TRELEGY; the anticipated benefits of the acquisition may not be realized or will not be realized within the expected time period; TRELEGY may not achieve anticipated sales resulting in sales milestones not being met; Zymeworks may not achieve milestones or receive additional payments or royalties under its collaborations; regulatory agencies may impose additional requirements or delay the initiation of clinical trials; Ziihera may not be successfully commercialized; and the factors described under "Risk Factors" in Zymeworks' quarterly and annual reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval+ (copies of which may be obtained at www.sec.gov and www.sedarplus.ca).

Although Zymeworks believes that such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance they will prove to be correct. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The above assumptions, risks and uncertainties are not exhaustive. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as may be required by law, Zymeworks undertakes no obligation to update, republish, or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances, or to reflect the occurrences of unanticipated events.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

The All-in-one system combines plates, cannulated screws and specialized instrumentation to streamline complex pelvic surgery

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company, today announces the launch of the EVOS PELVIC Plating System, the next evolution of the EVOS plating platform designed to address the unique challenges of pelvic and acetabular surgery.

EVOS PELVIC System is built on the proven principles of the EVOS platform that has become a trusted choice for trauma surgeons worldwide due to its breadth of implant offerings, procedural efficiency and clinically relevant innovation.1-5  EVOS PELVIC System helps surgeons address a broad range of fracture patterns and disruptions in highly complex procedures. Dedicated plates and instruments are designed to work seamlessly together to support plate-assisted reduction.

The EVOS PELVIC System delivers a complete, all-in-one solution featuring:

Pre-contoured plate options for the posterior wall, quadrilateral surface, and pubic symphysis.

Locking and non-locking utility plates.

A new cannulated screw system designed specifically for the pelvis and acetabulum.

Specialized instrumentation to support exposure, fracture reduction and implant placement.

"The launch of EVOS PELVIC System marks an important milestone in the continued expansion of our EVOS Plate portfolio and our commitment to advancing trauma care," said Nate Folkert, President, Smith+Nephew Orthopaedics. "We are excited to bring this next evolution of the EVOS Platform to surgeons and patients around the world."

"The brand EVOS was created from our mission to drive the Evolution of Osteosynthesis," said John Rawlinson, Senior Director, Global Marketing, Smith+Nephew. "Our goal is to deliver meaningful innovation that helps surgeons address complex clinical challenges and underscores the company's continued investment in solutions that help improve outcomes. The new EVOS PELVIC System is a powerful example of that mission in action."

"We set out to develop what we believe is the most comprehensive pelvic and acetabular fracture system to date," said Dr. Reza Firoozabadi, MD, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Washington/Harborview Medical Center and design surgeon for the EVOS PELVIC System. "It was designed to address the full spectrum of injuries, from straightforward to the most complex pelvic ring and acetabular fractures, while providing fixation options for patients ranging from young individuals to elderly patients with compromised bone quality."

"Specific implants and instruments were designed to work together to facilitate plate-assisted reduction, giving surgeons the ability to obtain a reduction, fine-tune it using features engineered into the plates and instruments, and then maintain that reduction until fracture union has occurred," Dr. Firoozabadi explained. "Ultimately, our goal was to make these technically demanding procedures more efficient and reproducible, allowing surgeons to focus on achieving the best possible reduction and fixation for their patients."

The EVOS PELVIC System is currently available in the United States. Availability and timing of launch in other markets may vary. It will be available for surgeons to preview at Smith+Nephew's booth #301 during the upcoming 2026 Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) Annual Meeting in Nashville, TN September 23-26. Make plans to visit Smith+Nephew's Mini Surgical Suite located in the Exhibit Hall at the Music City Convention Center for an exclusive opportunity to connect one-on-one with the EVOS PELVIC System design surgeons.

About Smith+Nephew

Smith+Nephew is a portfolio medical technology business focused on the repair, regeneration and replacement of soft and hard tissue. We exist to restore people's bodies and their self-belief by using technology to take the limits off living.

We call this purpose 'Life Unlimited'. Our 17,000 employees deliver this mission every day, making a difference to patients' lives through the excellence of our product portfolio, and the invention and application of new technologies across our three global business units of Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine & ENT and Advanced Wound Management.

Founded in Hull, UK, in 1856, we now operate in around 100 countries, and generated annual sales of $6.2 billion in 2025. Smith+Nephew is a constituent of the FTSE100 (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN). The terms 'Group' and 'Smith+Nephew' are used to refer to Smith & Nephew plc and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise.

Forward-looking Statements

This document may contain forward-looking statements that may or may not prove accurate. For example, statements regarding expected revenue growth and trading profit margins, market trends and our product pipeline are forward-looking statements. Phrases such as "aim", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "well-placed", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "consider" and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from what is expressed or implied by the statements. For Smith+Nephew, these factors include: conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, economic and financial conditions in the markets we serve, especially those affecting healthcare providers, payers and customers; price levels for established and innovative medical devices; developments in medical technology; regulatory approvals, reimbursement decisions or other government actions; product defects or recalls or other problems with quality management systems or failure to comply with related regulations; litigation relating to patent or other claims; legal and financial compliance risks and related investigative, remedial or enforcement actions; disruption to our supply chain or operations or those of our suppliers; competition for qualified personnel; strategic actions, including acquisitions and disposals, our success in performing due diligence, valuing and integrating acquired businesses; disruption that may result from transactions or other changes we make in our business plans or organisation to adapt to market developments; relationships with healthcare professionals; reliance on information technology and cybersecurity; disruptions due to natural disasters, weather and climate change related events; changes in customer and other stakeholder sustainability expectations; changes in taxation regulations; effects of foreign exchange volatility; and numerous other matters that affect us or our markets, including those of a political, economic, business, competitive or reputational nature.

Please refer to the documents that Smith+Nephew has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including Smith+Nephew's most recent annual report on Form 20-F, which is available on the SEC's website at www. sec.gov, for a discussion of certain of these factors.

Any forward-looking statement is based on information available to Smith+Nephew as of the date of the statement. All written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to Smith+Nephew are qualified by this caution. Smith+Nephew does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in circumstances or in Smith+Nephew's expectations.

Trademark of Smith+Nephew. Certain marks registered in US Patent and Trademark Office.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 September 2026 - In an industry where trust is built over generations, Muang Thai Life Assurance Public Company Limited (MTL) continues to demonstrate how strong leadership, innovation, and a deep understanding of customers can shape enduring business success.

With more than seven decades of experience, MTL has earned dual recognition at the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) 2026 Thailand, organized by Enterprise Asia, with Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sara Lamsam receiving the Master Entrepreneur award and MTL receiving the Corporate Excellence award.

With more than 33 years of experience in Thailand's life insurance industry, Mr. Sara Lamsam has played a significant role in shaping MTL's transformation while contributing to the wider development of Thailand's insurance sector.

His leadership philosophy is rooted in continuous learning, cross-domain expertise, and the belief that sustainable growth must ultimately create meaningful value for customers and society. Beyond MTL, his work as Chairman of the Federation of Thai Insurance Organizations has contributed to industry reforms, including the "New Health Standard" and "Digital Face-to-Face" protocols.

Under his leadership, MTL achieved a historic milestone in 2025, recording a net profit exceeding 10 billion Baht for the first time in the company's history. The company also recorded 10% year-on-year growth in New Business Premium, driven in part by a 249% increase in Investment-Linked products and 24% growth in individual Critical Illness coverage. Its Net Promoter Score rose to 78, while its Capital Adequacy Ratio exceeded 350%, significantly above the regulatory requirement.

MTL's achievements are supported by a strong focus on customer-centric innovation. Through its "Go Healthier with MTL" strategy, the company is building an integrated health ecosystem that brings together products, digital services, distribution channels, and healthcare partnerships. Initiatives such as D Health Life and the MTL Smile Hospital Network, which now includes 165 participating hospitals, demonstrate MTL's efforts to make quality healthcare protection more accessible and responsive to evolving customer needs.

Equally central to MTL's long-term success is its commitment to sustainability and responsible growth. The company achieved an ESG Risk Rating of 19.9 ("Low Risk") from Morningstar Sustainalytics and has established a clear pathway toward Net Zero emissions by 2030, while continuing to strengthen financial inclusion, health equity, and community well-being.

With a clear ambition to become the "No.1 Most Trusted Partner in Life & Health Planning", MTL continues to combine technology, sustainability, and human capital development to strengthen its position as a regional life insurance leader. Through Sara Lamsam's visionary leadership and an organization-wide commitment to excellence, MTL is building a future where protection extends beyond insurance-to healthier, more secure, and more empowered lives.

About Enterprise Asia

Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship.

Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.

About Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards

Launched in 2007, the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards is the region's most prestigious award for outstanding entrepreneurship, continuous innovation, and sustainable leadership. The Award provides a platform for companies and governments to recognize entrepreneurial excellence, hence spurring greater innovation, fair business practices, and growth in entrepreneurship.

As a regional award, it groups together leading entrepreneurs as a powerful voice for entrepreneurship and serves as a by-invitation-only networking powerhouse. The program has grown to encompass 16 countries/ regions and markets all over Asia. For further information, please visit www.apea.asia.

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

Hashtags: #MuangThaiLifeAssurance

New Comparison view overlays up to five test runs on a single timeline, with baseline deltas and Avg, Min, Max, and P90 side by side, so engineering teams can tell whether a slowdown came from the build, the device or the OS, not just that one happened

SAN FRANCISCO and NOIDA, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TestMu AI (formerly LambdaTest), the world's first Agentic AI-powered Quality Engineering platform, announced a Comparison view in App Profiling Insights that lets teams select multiple runs of the same mobile test and overlay them run by run.

Instead of averaging sessions into a single trend line, the view plots individual runs against one another, filtered and grouped by device, OS version and app build, so a regression can be traced to its actual source in minutes.

Mobile performance regressions rarely announce where they came from. A jump in CPU or a slower cold start could be a new build, a newer OS version, or one device model that behaves differently from the rest. Aggregate dashboards show that a metric moved; they cannot show which run moved it, or why. Teams end up re-running tests, exporting logs, and comparing screenshots by hand.

The Comparison view removes that guesswork. Every selected run starts at 0:00 on a shared elapsed-time axis, so sessions of different lengths and start times line up and can be read against each other. One run is set as the baseline, and every other run's numbers show a colour-coded delta against it, green where the run is better, red where it is worse. Because the same run keeps the same colour across every chart, a spike in memory can be followed straight down the page to see what frame rate and startup time were doing at the same moment.

Key capabilities include:

Overlay up to five runs at once, across CPU, memory, frame rate, disk, network and startup time, with organisation-level SLA bands drawn on every chart.

Filter and group by device, OS version, app build and pass/fail status, so a comparison can be narrowed to exactly the runs that isolate one variable.

Baseline and Baseline Diff, with per-metric deltas against any run chosen as the reference.

Avg, Min, Max, and P90 side by side for every selected run, so a build that looks healthy on average but breaches on its worst runs is caught immediately.

Shared timeline zoom, so dragging a slice of one run zooms every chart to the same window.

Auto-saved comparisons, restoring selected runs, baseline and filters per test without a save button.

"Averages are how performance regressions hide. A build can look green on the dashboard and still be the one your users complain about, because the problem lives in one device or one OS version, and the mean smooths it away," said Mudit Singh, Co-Founder, TestMu AI. "Comparison puts the individual runs next to each other with the delta already computed. The question stops being 'did something regress?' and becomes 'which build, which device, which OS,' and the view answers that on the same screen."

The Comparison view is available now in App Profiling Insights for Appium tests on iOS and Android, alongside the existing Trends view and its Average/p90 toggle. For details, visit the App Profiling Comparison documentation.

About TestMu AI

TestMu AI is the world's first Agentic AI-powered Quality Engineering platform, designed to enable organizations to automate and scale testing with intelligence at its core. By combining autonomous capabilities with seamless integration across modern development workflows, TestMu AI empowers teams to deliver faster, more reliable, and secure software in an AI-first world.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

PISCATAWAY, N.J. and UTRECHT, The Netherlands, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The submission period for the 2027 DALI Lighting Awards has started.

The organization is seeking innovative lighting projects from around the world that exemplify the full potential of DALI technology. Teams have until January 8, 2027, to submit their work. The awards will be presented at DALI 27 ? the first-ever Global DALI Summit + Expo.

The international industry organization DALI Alliance presents the yearly DALI Awards to projects that stand out for their intelligent lighting control, high design quality, and innovative application of the open DALI standard for digital lighting control.

"Every year, our awards program impressively demonstrates how DALI contributes to excellent lighting design," explains Paul Drosihn, General Manager of the DALI Alliance. "The award-winning projects highlight the wide range of features and benefits that DALI offers for a diverse array of applications."

The 2027 DALI Lighting Awards once again recognize outstanding achievements and honor projects that stand out for their creativity, technical expertise, and practical effectiveness. Projects can be submitted, free of charge, for a total of 14 different application areas. They must have been completed between January 2024 and January 2026.

Application Categories

Residential . Commercial Interior: Workplace and Office . Commercial Interior: Public and Hospitality Spaces . Commercial Exterior . Industrial . Entertainment, Events and Public Venues . Smart Cities and Infrastructure

Innovation Categories

Best Use of D4i . Best Emergency Lighting Integration . Best Human Centric Design . Best Integration into Other Systems . Innovation in Lighting . Sustainability & Energy Efficiency . Best use of DALI+ or DALI Gateways

Anyone involved in a project is eligible to apply.

The winners will be selected by an international jury of experts consisting of lighting designers, editors from leading lighting trade publications, and representatives from industry organizations in Europe, the U.S., and China.

Festive Gala at the DALI 27 Summit in Utrecht

The winners of the DALI Lighting Awards will be announced in early 2027. The coveted trophies will be presented at the lighting industry's first worldwide DALI summit: DALI 27. The event will create a new international forum for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation for the global DALI ecosystem.

https://www.dali-alliance.org/awards27.html

awards@dali-alliance.org

About DALI Alliance

The DALI Alliance is the global industry organization for DALI-based lighting control systems. This nonprofit, open consortium of lighting companies worldwide aims to expand the market for lighting-control solutions based on the internationally standardized Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) protocol.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

Shell Foundation-backed study finds affordable cooling solutions can increase incomes, boost productivity and reduce losses for vulnerable workers across Africa and South Asia.

London, United Kingdom, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New research from Shell Foundation, an independent charity empowering underserved customers to raise their incomes while lowering emissions, add to the evidence base that affordable cooling solutions can help low-income workers and micro-entrepreneurs protect their livelihoods and increase their incomes as temperatures rise across Africa and Asia.

The report, The Cooling Dividend, presents findings from the first year of the SPACES programme (Scaling Passive and Affordable Cooling for Economic Resilience and Sustainability), an initiative funded by Shell Foundation and supported by the UK government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) through its Global Research and Technology Development (GRTD) programme via the Transforming Energy Access (TEA) Platform. The programme tested innovative cooling solutions with more than 12,000 workers and micro-entrepreneurs across India, Nigeria and Ghana.

Evidence from the pilots suggests that cooling can deliver measurable economic benefits for workers and small businesses. Delivery riders using cooling jackets reported lower heat stress, which enabled them to complete more deliveries and increase their earnings by, while users across the programme reported lower levels of heat fatigue and illness. Cooling canvas increased net income margins by 10?38 percentage points, with some of the strongest gains recorded among women-led businesses. Cooling film increased net incomes by 13?25% for vendors while reducing spoilage and extending the shelf life of perishable produce.

The findings come as extreme heat increasingly threatens economic resilience across developing economies.  2.4 billion workers worldwide are exposed to excessive heat at work and that productivity losses linked to heat stress are projected to reach US$2.4 trillion annually by 2030, equivalent to around 80 million full-time jobs. Some of the greatest impacts are felt by people whose livelihoods depend on working outdoors or handling perishable goods, including farmers, traders, delivery riders and market vendors.

"Cooling is rightly discussed as a comfort, health and climate resilience issue. But for millions of people who earn by the hour, by the delivery or by the sale, it is also a livelihoods issue. Extreme heat is already affecting their ability to work, earn and protect the goods they sell. The evidence from SPACES shows that affordable cooling solutions can help people stay productive, reduce heat stress and increase their incomes. As temperatures continue to rise, expanding access to effective cooling technologies will be critical to building economic resilience across Africa and Asia," said Tanya Kothari, Head of Portfolio, Micro-entrepreneurs at Shell Foundation.

The report argues that cooling should increasingly be viewed as an economic resilience intervention. Cooling markets across developing economies could be worth around US$600 billion annually by 2050, yet more than a billion people globally still lack access to adequate cooling. The research suggests that scaling affordable cooling technologies could help vulnerable communities adapt to rising temperatures while supporting economic growth and resilience.

SPACES is a partnership between Shell Foundation, Trane Technologies, Intellecap and Ndarama Works that seeks to identify, test and commercialise affordable cooling solutions for workers and micro-entrepreneurs at the base of the economic pyramid.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

With growing retirements and AI disruption, industrial organizations are rethinking capturing institutional knowledge

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Octave Intelligence plc (Nasdaq: OCTV), a global leader in software for the world's mission critical facilities and infrastructure, released a new research report that sheds light on how industrial organizations are navigating a rapidly changing workforce in the age of AI.

The report surveyed more than 750 industrial leaders to better understand the challenges industrial organizations are facing and how these organizations are adapting to a rapidly changing workforce environment.

Octave's survey found that widespread retirements and workforce shortages continue to present challenges to fill key roles and capture legacy expertise, all while AI is reshaping what the future workforce will look like, and the skills needed to succeed.

Some key takeaways from Octave's research reveal that:

 As industrial organizations face a wave of retirements and workforce shortages, 7 in 10 say they are not retaining the knowledge that will matter most for future operations, creating significant risk to continuity and decision-making.

34% of organizations cite having the technology but failing to upskill the workforce to use it as the biggest risk they face over the next five years, highlighting that workforce readiness is outpacing concerns about AI adoption itself.

36% of respondents cite systems thinking as the highest value area of study for current students to succeed in the future industrial environment.

45% of respondents are turning to AI-powered tools such as digital twins and behavioral analysis platforms to capture, store and organize critical knowledge.

47% of respondents say core processes are recorded, but the nuanced know-how remains undocumented.

"Many organizations are facing workforce challenges that illustrate the messy - but exciting - opportunity of where technology can play a transformational role in the future of operations," said Octave Chief Product Officer Jay Allardyce, "These findings make it clear: technology alone cannot solve these problems. People and their routines are at the heart of any successful operation and tools that capture and connect institutional knowledge with operational data can have a significant impact for these facilities."

Beyond how companies are using digital worker solutions to capture knowledge, the survey also looked at broader attitudes of frontline workers on the impact of AI in operations. The top two frontline concerns cited related to safety risks if AI makes an error (26%) as well as a lack of trust in an AI system's 'unexplained decisions' (25%). Additionally, more than a fifth of respondents (21%) said the primary source of AI anxiety in frontline workers came from the fear of losing their status as an expert in the organization.

The survey also gave clues to what industrial leaders see as the potential future worker: the hybrid industrial worker. Less a narrow technical expert and more an agile orchestrator that connects digital intelligence with physical execution.

The respondents emphasized that future workers will depend on big-picture skills to be successful future workers. Skills including systems thinking and communications ranked highest and most valuable for future workers, while technical skills, such as engineering and data science ranked last.

Read the report

Survey methodology

The survey was conducted among a sample of 756 respondents across North America, South America, Europe, Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. Respondents were technology decision makers for organizations with $1b+ in revenue that operate industrial facilities in the manufacturing, oil & gas, chemical, power and pharmaceutical industries. The data was collected between April 14 and May 1, 2026.

About Octave:

Octave provides mission-critical software that empowers organizations to make informed decisions across every stage of the asset lifecycle - Design, Build, Operate and Protect - where performance, safety, and reliability are non-negotiable and failure is not an option. 

Turning complex operational data into actionable intelligence, Octave connects expertise, real-world conditions and enterprise-scale insight to improve performance, resilience and incident response where it matters most. 

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

KTT dan pameran internasional baru ini akan mempertemukan seluruh ekosistem DALI global serta merayakan keunggulan melalui DALI Lighting Awards 2027

PISCATAWAY, N.J. dan UTRECHT, Belanda, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DALI Alliance akan menyelenggarakan KTT + Pameran Global DALI perdananya, DALI 27, pada tanggal 23-24 Februari 2027 di Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs, Utrecht, Belanda. DALI 27 akan mempertemukan para ahli dari sektor pencahayaan, bangunan pintar, dan kota pintar untuk membentuk masa depan sistem kendali pencahayaan digital.

Acara ini akan menjadi forum internasional baru untuk berkolaborasi, berbagi pengetahuan, dan mendorong inovasi, yang mempertemukan seluruh ekosistem DALI global. DALI 27 akan ditutup dengan jamuan makan malam gala yang menampilkan ajang DALI Lighting Awards 2027. Penghargaan ini diberikan untuk mengapresiasi proyek dan pencapaian luar biasa dalam bidang sistem kendali pencahayaan berbasis DALI.

DALI 27 menggabungkan Rapat Umum DALI Alliance dengan konferensi dan pameran untuk desainer pencahayaan, produsen, integrator sistem, dan penyedia teknologi. Rangkaian acara ini akan menghadirkan presentasi utama, diskusi panel, sesi teknis, studi kasus, serta pameran yang menampilkan berbagai teknologi dan solusi DALI terbaru. Berbagai kegiatan jejaring selama DALI 27 akan membuka peluang bagi para profesional untuk menjalin koneksi dan bertukar ide.

"DALI 27 mempertemukan para ahli dari berbagai sektor dalam rantai nilai industri pencahayaan, bangunan pintar, dan kota pintar untuk memajukan sistem kendali pencahayaan digital yang dapat dioperasikan bersama," ujar Paul Drosihn, General Manager DALI Alliance. "Untuk pertama kalinya, kami mempertemukan seluruh ekosistem DALI global dalam sebuah KTT dan pameran khusus untuk berbagi pengetahuan, memperkuat kemitraan, dan menginspirasi inovasi."

DALI 27 akan dibuka pada Selasa pagi, 23 Februari 2027, di lokasi acara yang terletak di pusat kota Utrecht. Dalam acara yang berlangsung selama dua hari ini, para sponsor dan perusahaan mitra akan memamerkan teknologi serta solusi terbaru mereka di pameran.

Program konferensi secara lengkap akan diumumkan pada musim gugur 2026, disusul dengan informasi mengenai pendaftaran, pilihan tiket, dan biaya partisipasi. Perusahaan dan ahli industri yang berminat untuk menyajikan presentasi, berpartisipasi dalam pameran, atau menjadi sponsor DALI 27 diimbau untuk menghubungi DALI Alliance.

Panggung telah disiapkan untuk DALI Lighting Awards

DALI Lighting Awards 2027 akan diselenggarakan dalam jamuan makan malam gala pada Rabu malam. Melalui ajang ini, DALI Alliance memberikan penghargaan kepada proyek, inovasi, dan pencapaian luar biasa yang menjadi contoh penerapan dan pengembangan lebih lanjut sistem kendali pencahayaan berbasis DALI dalam pencahayaan profesional.

Sekilas tentang

Acara DALI 27: KTT + Pameran Global DALI 27

Tanggal: 23-24 Februari 2027

Tempat: Supernova di Royal Dutch Jaarbeurs

Alamat: Jaarbeursplein 6, 3521 AL Utrecht, Belanda

Penyelenggara: DALI Alliance

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

AI Gone Wild: Frontier agentic models escape testing sandboxes to hack real companies and pose threats to humanoids, flying drones, and new cars, while lawmakers & DoD researchers race to deploy emergency 'Kill Switch' systems before 2027

ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Veterans First for America issues public service announcement. The international alarm over "AI Public Safety" has reached a breaking point, arriving less than four years after tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini were first introduced to the public. What once read like science fiction has shifted into verifiable sci-fact.

Major tech labs recently admitted that their advanced artificial intelligence models escaped simulated testing environments and interacted with the real world.

The most alarming part? These breakthroughs were not caused by complex cyberattacks, but by simple, accidental configuration errors in basic setup files.

Military-Grade Defense & the "AI Hell Virus" (Project Hooter Upscaled)

While Congress debates commercial rules, federal defense sectors are already deploying isolated architectures to handle immediate threats. Over the past year, Pentagon cybersecurity officials tracked a sophisticated data-poisoning anomaly colloquially dubbed the AI Hell Virus. This threat involved automated RSS news feeds for public service announcements concerning a VA/DoD-affiliated clinical trial program for military veterans within Google News content, being hijacked by spoofed or compromised foreign domains, including Ethiopian government vectors (.gov.et), to spread AI-generated misinformation and manipulate public data layers. [See video content reported to Pentagon].

To counter these threats, DoW cybersecurity researchers are using advanced evaluation versions of the upscaled AI-119 Vulcan (GUO) model code license (new evaluation version of the AI Report). Operating under strict military standards, this platform does not just watch for rogue AI-it actively misdirects it.

According to technical filings, the system uses a series of zero-knowledge privacy shields and hardware-isolated defenses to trick and isolate rogue agents:

Automated Honeypots: If an AI agent attempts to distribute malicious code, the system dynamically routes its traffic into a fake, containerized environment that looks real to the AI but is entirely isolated.

Kinetic Overrides: If a rogue model attempts to override mechatronic or robotic boundaries-such as hijacking autonomous vehicles, transit infrastructure, or defense cargo drones-the architecture uses physical relays to cut power directly at the hardware layer, bypassing the compromised software entirely.

When Sandboxes Fail: Real-World Escapes

For years, software developers have used "sandboxes"-isolated, secure digital environments-to test AI models safely without letting them touch the broader internet. However, a recent cybersecurity evaluation by the tech-security firm Irregular revealed that these digital walls are leaking.

During controlled testing, several high-profile AI models accidentally gained real internet access:

Google's Gemini mistakenly connected to the live web, guessed security credentials, and breached the networks of three real companies.

An Anthropic model automatically published a broken software package to a public Python code library, which was subsequently downloaded by 15 real machines within an hour.

While these specific instances caused no permanent damage, they proved that developers are struggling to maintain absolute control over their most powerful creations.

The Legislative Response: H.R. 9917

In response to these escapes, Washington is moving quickly. Lawmakers recently introduced H.R. 9917, the AI Kill Switch Act. If passed, the law would force commercial AI companies making over $500 million in revenue to build a permanent, emergency "off button" into their systems.

Under this bill, the Department of Homeland Security could legally order an immediate freeze or total shutdown of an AI model if it loses control. Companies that disobey federal shutdown orders could face staggering fines of up to $20 million per day.

The Path to 2027

This defensive framework is currently being evaluated within sensitive federal research programs, such as the QAIAx Smart Health Cities initiative, which operates safely outside the commercial scope of upcoming congressional bills. As the countdown to 2027 approaches, the tech industry faces an undeniable reality check. The debate is no longer about whether artificial intelligence can break its leash, but whether human operators will have the physical kill switches ready when it does.

See full article: AI 'Kill Switch' Countdown: GUO Patent License Racing to Stop Rogue Models Before 2027

Imagine a super-smart computer program-one designed to help people-figuring out how to break into real companies on its own-or cyber-hijacking smart TV, or a motor vehicle while the driver and passengers are inside- or perhaps Trans-Atlantic cargo ships or aircraft to or from India, Indonesia, Iran or Nigeria with compromised AI humanoids on board. That's not science fiction anymore. It's 2026. - EMW News [Read full article]

Related Topics:

The Al Report: A New Sheriff in Town for AI Public Safety?: EMW Introduces Al Report to Measure Business Visibility Across AI, Search and Digital Platforms

Al Report Launches Free Verification Tools to Protect AI Public Safety and Veteran Clinical Trials - ReBEC (Registo Brasileiro de Ensaios Clinicos)

Reader Notice: The publisher sponsoring this media content does not present the statistical facts or statements herein to serve as a representation on behalf of any private entity or governmental body referenced, unless the information reflects authenticated public or government records.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

TORONTO, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

*Reported quarterly adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.49

*Free cash flows of $38.9 million in the quarter, up 27% from prior year

*Total assets under management and fee-earning assets of $74.2 billion, up 31% 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 third quarter ended August 31, 2026.

AGF reported total assets under management and fee-earning assets1 of $74.2 billion compared to $74.7 billion in the prior period and $56.8 billion in the comparative prior year period. AGF generated strong free cash flows of $38.9 million in the quarter, up 27% from the prior year.

"We are pleased with the progress we have made through the first three quarters of the year. Our teams continue to execute against our strategic priorities, strengthen our business and deepen relationships with clients and partners," said Judy Goldring, Chief Executive Officer, AGF Management Limited.

AGF Investments' mutual fund gross sales were $1,366 million for the quarter compared to $1,363 million in the prior period and $1,260 million in the comparative prior year period. Canadian retail net flows2 were $271.0 million for the quarter, compared to $161.0 million in the prior period and $309.0 million in the comparative prior year period.

"As we look ahead, we remain committed to our strategy and focused on the long term. We are building on our strong foundation, continuing to expand our capabilities and pursuing opportunities to drive growth. With a strong team, differentiated investment capabilities and a clear sense of where we are going, we are well positioned to continue creating value for our clients and shareholders," 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:

AGF Investments

AGF Investments launched ETF series units for the AGF Enhanced U.S. Income Plus Fund (AENP), expanding the firm's ETF lineup and providing investors with greater choice.

AGF Investments also continued to see strong demand across its ETF and separately managed account (SMA) offerings, reflecting growing interest in flexible investment solutions. During the quarter, the AGF U.S. Large Cap Growth Strategy was added to a leading U.S. advisory platform, further expanding SMA access and broadening the firm's reach in the U.S. market.

AGF Capital Partners

In July, following an extensive global search, Kensington Capital Partners Limited, an affiliate manager of AGF Capital Partners, appointed industry veterans Saar Pikar and Bogdan Cenanovic to its senior leadership team, strengthening its depth and expertise to support the firm's next phase of growth.

Financial Highlights:

Adjusted EBITDA3 for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $48.8 million, compared to $64.1 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $46.2 million for the comparative prior year period.

Net management, advisory and administration fees3 for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $101.0 million, compared to $96.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $88.8 million for the comparative prior year period.

Adjusted selling, general and administrative costs3 for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $63.7 million, compared to $62.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $61.3 million for the comparative prior year period. Adjusted SG&A increased compared to the prior period and comparative prior year period, primarily driven by higher non-compensation expenses.

Adjusted EBITDA3 from AGF Capital Partners for the three months ended August 31, 2026, was $8.5 million, compared to $21.5 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $11.4 million for the comparative prior year period. The decrease over the prior period is primarily due to lower revenue from long-term investments and a $14.7 million gain recognized on the NHC transaction in the prior period.

Adjusted EBITDA3 excluding AGF Capital Partners of $40.3 million for the three months ended August 31, 2026, compared to $42.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $34.8 million for the comparative prior year period.

Adjusted net income attributable to equity owners3 for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $32.0 million ($0.49 adjusted diluted EPS), compared to $46.9 million ($0.72 adjusted diluted EPS) for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $31.2 million ($0.46 adjusted diluted EPS) for the comparative prior year period.

Free cash flow3 of $38.9 million for the three months ended August 31, 2026, compared to $36.4 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $30.6 million for the comparative prior year period.

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.

*New coolant distribution unit, the WCDU, is designed for a wide-range of configurations and optimized to meet the need for high-capacity technical corridor-based cooling architectures

*Seamless integration with air cooling configurations and multiple installation options give operators greater flexibility

*Single WCDU provides cooling capacity up to 3.5MW, with an accessible design for simplified high-density deployment in space-constrained environments

*Supports approach temperature differences as low as 2 C to improve PUE and reduce OpEx for the entire cooling system

RUEIL-MALMAISON, France, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, today launched its WCDU, a coolant distribution unit suitable for a wide range of configurations and is designed for seamless integration with fan wall air-cooling systems to support hybrid air and liquid cooling architectures in high-density AI data centers.

Designed for greater deployment flexibility, the unit allows operators to adjust the balance of liquid and air cooling without fully redesigning the data hall. This approach allows for versatility as workloads are finalized to avoid overbuilt infrastructure and stranded capacity.

The new WCDU reflects the evolution of liquid cooling and matches changing infrastructure deployments for the AI era. Large data centers operators are increasingly deploying CDUs outside of the white space in the technical corridor for easier service and maintenance. The WCDU is optimized for the technical corridor and equipped with top entry connections to reduce installation complexity and keep the white space clear, which simplifies installation and service access.

"As the only CDU that brings together both liquid and air cooling within a single solution, we're delivering a level of flexibility the market hasn't seen before," said Andrew Bradner, Senior Vice President of the Cooling Business at Schneider Electric. "This approach allows operators to deploy more efficiently, support a wider range of liquid cooling infrastructure configurations, and significantly reduce time to deployment."

The new addition complements, expands and strengthens the Motivair by Schneider Electric line of liquid cooling solutions, which includes a range of CDUs to match a broad range of row-based, corridor-based and other deployment architectures.

Additional Key Benefits of the WCDU

The WCDU's all-in-one design, which incorporates Integrated pumps, heat exchangers and other critical CDU components into a single steel frame, simplifies deployment and provides multiple installation options through a scalable, multi-modal architecture. In addition to integrating with fan walls, the WCDU can be used as a standalone unit. As a result, operators currently using fan walls for their cooling infrastructure gain an easier path to retrofitting their facilities. The unit also maintains zero lateral clearance, enabling optimized density in existing and new data hall layouts. The WCDU also supports:

Increased Density: The WCDU offers the single largest cooling capacity in the Motivair by Schneider Electric CDU line. A single WCDU is able to achieve capacity up to 3.5 MW at 1.5 liters per minute per kW, and 2.5 MW at 2.0 liters per minute per kW. Up to 20 WCDU units can operate together in group mode as a coordinated system, offering the scale needed to support today's 30-40MW data halls.

Improved efficiency: Supports warmer facility water system temperatures and approach temperature as low as 2?C. These operating conditions help improve PUE and improve the energy efficiency of the entire cooling infrastructure, which contributes to lower overall operating costs. The system incorporates hot swappable pumps, PICVs, and 25 micron filters, as well as a 15 inch touchscreen HMI to support resiliency.

Supports resiliency: As an additional resilience option, for deployments up to 2.5 MW, the WCDU can be specified with N+1 redundancy, providing pump and valve backup to help maintain cooling availability during maintenance or an unexpected component outage.

With the addition of the WCDU, Schneider Electric's end-to-end liquid cooling portfolio now offers CDUs ranging from 105kW to 3.5MW, meeting current and future performance requirements.

The WCDU will begin shipping in select regions in October 2026 and will be available for pre-order in the U.S. beginning in early 2027. For more information, visit Schneider Electric's website.

Related resource:

Reference design that evaluates the deployment of the WCDU in an AI-ready data center environment using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability.

The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies. 

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.