Month: September 2026

ZUG, Switzerland, September 30, 2026 — Oculis Holding AG (Nasdaq: OCS / XICE: OCS) (“Oculis” or the “Company”), a global biopharmaceutical company focused on breakthrough innovations to address significant unmet medical needs in neuro-ophthalmology and ophthalmology, today announces that director Lionel Carnot will be resigning from the Board of Directors, effective today, after nearly a decade of dedicated service since 2017.  

Anthony Rosenberg, Chair of the Board, remarked: “On behalf of the Board and the entire Oculis team, we wish to extend our sincere gratitude to Lionel for his invaluable service, leadership and guidance over nearly a decade, covering a transformative period for Oculis, where it evolved from a private startup company to a publicly listed late-stage biopharmaceutical company.  His contributions to the Board and Oculis have been instrumental in our growth and evolution to become an emerging leader in neuro-ophthalmology.”

Lionel Carnot remarked: “It has been a privilege to work alongside Oculis’ talented and dedicated team committed to addressing significant unmet medical needs and advance innovative solutions for patients suffering from ophthalmic and neuro-ophthalmic diseases. As the Company enters its next stage of growth, this is a timely point for me to step down and focus on other commitments. As an investor, I remain confident in the potential of Oculis’ pipeline and look forward to the Company achieving important milestones in the years ahead.”

Mr. Carnot’s departure is purely a personal decision and is not the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to its operations, policies, or practices. Following the resignation, the Board will consist of eight members and the Remuneration Committee, of which Mr. Lionel served as chair, will consist of Geraldine O’Keeffe as chair and Gregory Perry and Robert Warner as members. Pursuant to Swiss law, the vacancy on the Board resulting from Mr. Carnot’s resignation may only be filled at a future annual or special general meeting. Oculis will begin identifying a successor for Mr. Carnot and will provide updates as appropriate.

-ENDS-

About Oculis

Oculis is a global biopharmaceutical company (Nasdaq: OCS; XICE: OCS) focused on breakthrough innovations to address significant unmet medical needs in neuro-ophthalmology. Oculis’ highly differentiated late-stage clinical pipeline focuses on two core product candidates. Privosegtor is a breakthrough neuroprotective candidate in the PIONEER program, which consists of studies intended to support registration plans for treatment of optic neuropathies, including optic neuritis (ON) and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Privosegtor also has potential to be developed for additional indications in other neuro-ophthalmic and neuro-axonal diseases. Licaminlimab is a novel, topical anti-TNFα in a registrational trial, and is being developed with a genotype-based approach for treating patients with dry eye disease (DED). Headquartered in Switzerland with operations in the U.S., Iceland and Switzerland, Oculis is led by an experienced management team with a successful track record and supported by leading international healthcare investors.
           
For more information, please visit: www.oculis.com

Oculis Contact
Ms. Sylvia Cheung, CFO
sylvia.cheung@oculis.com

Investor Relations
LifeSci Advisors
Corey Davis, Ph.D.
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Relations
ICR Healthcare
Amber Fennell
oculis@icrhealthcare.com

The No. 54 Saia Freight and Logistics Toyota Camry XSE will feature the nonprofit’s logo

JOHNS CREEK, Ga., Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Saia Inc. (NASDAQ: SAIA) is proud to bring its longstanding partnership with Wreaths Across America (WAA) to the track when the No. 54 Saia Freight and Logistics Toyota Camry XSE takes on the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Sunday, Oct. 4.

Saia, a primary sponsor of Ty Gibbs and the No. 54 team for seven races during the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, invited WAA to join the company as a shared sponsor for the Las Vegas race. The collaboration will make use of NASCAR’s national stage to bring greater visibility to WAA’s yearlong mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

“Wreaths Across America has been an important partner to Saia for many years, and we’re proud to share this platform with an organization whose mission means so much to our employees,” said Saia Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Ray Ramu. “Our partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing gives us an incredible opportunity to connect with people across the country, and this race is a chance to use that visibility for something bigger, recognizing our nation’s veterans and helping more people learn about the important work Wreaths Across America does.”

Saia’s relationship with WAA extends well beyond the racetrack. Each year, Saia helps transport sponsored veterans’ wreaths to participating cemeteries across the country while employees and their families volunteer at wreath-laying ceremonies in their local communities. Saia drivers have also represented the company during WAA’s annual convoy from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery. The upcoming Las Vegas race builds on the organizations’ shared commitment to keeping the stories and sacrifices of America’s service members at the forefront.

“We are incredibly grateful to Saia for its continued support of the program and for sharing this national platform with us,” said WAA Director of Transportation and Industry Relations Courtney George. “Partnerships like this help us spread awareness for our continued mission to recognize and honor fallen veterans. We’re proud to join Saia at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and look forward to seeing our shared commitment represented on the track.”

The South Point 400 is part of the NASCAR Cup Series championship Chase and will take place on the 1.5-mile oval at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The race begins at 2:30 p.m. PT on Sunday, Oct. 4.

“It’s really cool to have Wreaths Across America on the No. 54 Saia Freight and Logistics Toyota this weekend and to help bring attention to the work they do to honor our veterans,” said Ty Gibbs. “It means a lot to be part of something that recognizes the people who have made such a sacrifice for our country, and I’m proud that we can help share their mission with NASCAR fans at Las Vegas.”

Saia’s partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing continues throughout the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, reflecting a shared focus on teamwork, performance, and execution. The Las Vegas race marks the final scheduled primary sponsorship race of the season for Saia and the No. 54 team.

About Saia, Inc.

Saia, Inc. (NASDAQ: SAIA) is a full-service freight and logistics provider with a national footprint built to deliver reliable, flexible shipping solutions. With industry-leading operations and a strong emphasis on the customer experience, the company helps keep freight – and businesses – moving. Saia offers customers a wide range of less-than-truckload, brokered truckload, expedited transportation, and other logistics services. Headquartered in Johns Creek, Georgia, the company operates 218 terminals providing national service. Saia has repeatedly been recognized for its people-centric, safety-driven, and sustainability-minded focus. For more information on Saia, Inc., visit Saia.com. For more information, contact:

Jeannie S. Jump
Saia Corporate Communications
Phone: 770-232-4069 · E-mail jjump@saia.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2c428f49-329d-41b4-9d1f-9a997279d0e9

Standard BioTools Enters into New Purchase Agreement with Element Biosystems, a Subsidiary of GMT Venture, After Determining GMT Venture’s Unsolicited Acquisition Proposal as Superior

BOSTON, Mass., Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Standard BioTools Inc. (NASDAQ: LAB) (“Standard BioTools” or the “Company”) today announced the following updates in connection with the Company’s previously announced merger with Treeline Biosciences, Inc. (“Treeline”):

Standard BioTools terminated its previously announced agreement to sell its Mass Cytometry Business to Multiplex Bio and entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Mass Cytometry business to Element Biosystems, LLC (“Element”), an acquisition vehicle formed by GMT Venture Partners, LLC (“GMT Venture”) for $5.5 million in cash payable at closing, subject to customary adjustments.

Following the announcement of the Multiplex Bio transaction on July 28, 2026, Standard BioTools received an unsolicited acquisition proposal from GMT Venture on August 29, 2026 with respect to its Mass Cytometry business. Consistent with its fiduciary duties, the Board of Directors reviewed the GMT Venture proposal and determined that the GMT Venture proposal met the standard for engagement under the terms of the Multiplex Bio purchase agreement. Following engagement with GMT Venture and negotiation of a definitive agreement with Element, the Board of Directors determined that the Element transaction constitutes a superior proposal and, prior to entering the definitive agreement with Element, Standard BioTools and Multiplex Bio mutually agreed to terminate the previously announced Multiplex Bio purchase agreement.

The upfront cash proceeds from Element of approximately $5.5 million, without the obligation to provide a $10 million working capital loan as required in the terminated Multiplex Bio purchase agreement, increases the net cash position of Standard BioTools taken into account in the calculation of the final exchange ratio for the Treeline merger by approximately $15 million, after taking into account related termination and transaction fees, as compared to the Multiplex Bio transaction.

Michael Egholm, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer of Standard BioTools, said, “We are pleased to realize greater value for our stockholders, while ensuring continuity for our Mass Cytometry customers and team. The competitive interest in this business only underscores the strength of our CyTOF, Hyperion, and Maxpar products, and the meaningful role they play in advancing single cell and spatial biology research.”

“We see significant long-term value in the Mass Cytometry business,” said Tom Claugus, Founder of GMT Venture. “It is built on foundational technology with an exceptional customer base and a dedicated team. We believe deeply in the long-term potential of the CyTOF and Hyperion platforms, and are committed to providing the resources needed to support the team, serve customers without interruption, and invest in the next generation of these products. We look forward to working closely with the team to build on this legacy.”

The Element transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026, substantially concurrently with the closing of the Treeline transaction, subject to approval by Standard BioTools’ stockholders and other customary closing conditions.

Pending Transaction with Treeline

The Company expects the Treeline transaction to close by the end of 2026, subject to approval by Standard BioTools stockholders and other customary closing conditions.

About Element Biosystems, LLC

Element was newly formed by GMT Venture to acquire Standard Biotools’ Mass Cytometry business. Element is focused on mass cytometry, single cell, and spatial biology. It will work closely with Core Quantum Technologies, Inc. and other early-stage biotech companies to further the impact of mass cytometry in drug discovery. Maynard Nexsen PC served as legal counsel to GMT Venture and Element and DPO&Co provided transaction advisory services.

About Standard BioTools Inc.

Standard BioTools, Inc. (NASDAQ: LAB), is committed to setting the new standard in the life science tools industry through strategic consolidation, best-in-class operations and a world class management team. The Company’s established portfolio includes essential, standardized next-generation solutions designed to help biomedical researchers develop better therapeutics faster. Learn more at standardbio.com or connect with us on X, Facebook®, LinkedIn, and YouTube™.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Limited Use Label License and other terms may apply: standardbio.com/legal/notices. Trademarks: standardbio.com/legal/terms-and-conditions/.

Patent and License Information: standardbio.com/legal/trademarks. Any other trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners. ©2026 Standard BioTools Inc. All rights reserved.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, among others, statements regarding the disposition of the Mass Cytometry business and the expected outcome, timing and benefits of such disposition; the Treeline transaction, including Standard Biotools’ expected net cash at the closing of the Treeline transaction and the expected timing of the closing of the Treeline transaction. The words “intend,” “realize,” “ensure,” “advance,” “believe,” “commit,” “potential,” “build,” “expect,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to: (i) the risk that the sale of the Mass Cytometry business may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; (ii) the ability to obtain the requisite approval for the sale of the Mass Cytometry business from stockholders of Standard BioTools; (iii) the possibility that any or all of the various conditions to the consummation of the sale of the Mass Cytometry business may not be satisfied or waived; (iv) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the agreement relating to the sale of the Mass Cytometry business, including in circumstances that would require Standard BioTools to pay a termination fee or other expenses; (v) the risk that the Treeline transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; (vi) the ability to obtain the requisite approval for the issuance of equity in connection with the Treeline transaction from stockholders of Standard BioTools; (vii) the possibility that additional competing offers or acquisition proposals will be made with respect to the Mass Cytometry business; (viii) the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals will be made with respect to the Treeline business; (ix) the possibility that any or all of the various conditions to the consummation of the Treeline transaction may not be satisfied or waived; (x) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the Treeline transaction, including in circumstances that would require Standard BioTools to pay a termination fee or other expenses; (xi) the effect of the pendency of the Treeline transaction and sale of the Mass Cytometry business on the parties’ ability to retain and hire key personnel, their ability to maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and others with whom they do business, their business generally or their stock price; (xii) risks related to diverting management’s attention from ongoing business operations or the loss of one or more members of the management team; (xiii) the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with either the sale of the Mass Cytometry business or the Treeline transaction may result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; (xiv) the parties’ ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Treeline transaction; (xv) the risk that the parties may assume unexpected liabilities and expenses as a result of the Treeline transaction; (xvi) the risk that the potential disposition of Standard BioTools’ Microfluidics business may not be completed on favorable terms or at all; (xvii) the risk that Standard BioTools could fail to maintain the listing of its common stock on Nasdaq; (xviii) uncertainties as to the potential for development, commercialization and other benefits of any of Treeline’s product candidates; and (xix) uncertainties as to Treeline’s anticipated preclinical and clinical drug development activities and related timelines, including the expected timing for commencing clinical trials and announcing data and other clinical results.

For information regarding other related risks, see the “Risk Factors” section of Standard BioTools’ Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on March 16, 2026, Standard BioTools’ most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Standard BioTools’ other filings with the SEC. Should any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could differ materially from expectations. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. Standard BioTools does not assume any obligation to, and does not currently intend to, update any such forward-looking statements except as may be required by law.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This press release may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of Standard BioTools’ sale of its Mass Cytometry business to Element and/or in respect of the Treeline transaction. In connection with the Treeline transaction and related stockholder vote, Standard BioTools has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4 on July 20, 2026 that included a preliminary proxy statement and a preliminary prospectus of Standard BioTools, and that may be amended or supplemented from time to time. In connection with the disposition of the Mass Cytometry business to Element and related stockholder vote, Standard BioTools will amend the preliminary proxy statement contained in the Registration Statement to include the proposed sale of the Business. This communication is not a substitute for the preliminary proxy statement/ preliminary prospectus or any other document that Standard BioTools may file with the SEC or send to its stockholders in connection with the proposed transactions. No offering of securities shall be made, except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Any definitive proxy statement/prospectus (if and when available) will be mailed to stockholders of Standard BioTools.

INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS OF STANDARD BIOTOOLS ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS (INCLUDING ALL AMENDMENTS, SUPPLEMENTS AND ANY DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE THEREIN) AND OTHER RELEVANT MATERIALS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED TRANSACTIONS BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT STANDARD BIOTOOLS, TREELINE, ELEMENT AND THE PROPOSED TRANSACTIONS. Copies of the materials filed or to be filed by Standard BioTools with the SEC may be obtained free of charge on Standard BioTools’ Investor Relations website at https://investors.standardbio.com or by contacting Standard BioTools’ Investor Relations department at ir@standardbio.com. In addition, all of those materials will be available at no charge on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Participants in the Solicitation

Standard BioTools, Treeline, Element and certain of their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of Standard BioTools stockholders in connection with the proposed transactions under SEC rules. Investors and stockholders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of Standard BioTools’ executive officers and directors who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation by reading Standard BioTools’ proxy statement for its 2026 annual meeting of stockholders (including under the headings “Management and Corporate Governance,” “Executive Officer and Director Compensation,” “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters,” “Executive Compensation” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence”), its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Standard BioTools’ other filings with the SEC. Information regarding each of Treeline’s and Element’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed participants in the solicitation is contained in the registration statement on Form S-4 filed by Standard BioTools. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by going to Standard BioTools’ Investor Relations website at http://investors.standardbio.com or contacting Standard BioTools’ Investor Relations department at ir@standardbio.com.

Contacts:

IR:
ir@standardbio.com

Media:
Dan Moore / Nick Lamplough / Tali Epstein
Collected Strategies
LAB-CS@collectedstrategies.com

SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blaize Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: BZAI; BZAIW) (“Blaize” or the “Company”), a leader in programmable, energy-efficient AI computing, today announced a restructuring plan.

The restructuring plan consists primarily of a reduction in force affecting approximately 26% of the Company’s workforce, along with other operational efficiency measures. The Company expects the restructuring plan to generate annualized savings of approximately $7.5 million to $8.4 million, with resources being redirected toward higher-growth and more profitable areas of the business.

“On the second quarter earnings call, we said we would reduce operating expenses,” said Dinakar Munagala, Chief Executive Officer of Blaize. “This plan is a significant step in that direction, and it preserves the capabilities we need to execute. What we are building on is clear: our hybrid AI platform and AI Services that run on it, our autonomous systems business, and the national-scale sovereign AI programs we are pursuing. This is where our focus is now, and it is where Blaize creates the most value. The decision was difficult, and I want to acknowledge the talented colleagues who are affected by it.”

The Company expects to substantially complete the restructuring plan by December 31, 2026. Total costs and cash expenditures related to the restructuring are expected to be approximately $1.1 million to $1.3 million, substantially all of which relate to employee severance and benefits. The Company expects to incur the majority of these pre-tax charges during the third quarter of 2026.

About Blaize
Blaize delivers a programmable AI platform, purpose-built for AI inference workloads in real-world environments. Its Hybrid AI architecture combines the Blaize GSP (Graph Streaming Processor) with GPU-based infrastructure, enabling AI inference workloads to run across edge, cloud, and data center. Blaize solutions support computer vision, multimodal AI, and sensor-driven applications across smart cities, industrial automation, telecommunications, retail, logistics, and mission-critical operations. Blaize is headquartered in El Dorado Hills, California, with a presence across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Visit www.blaize.com or follow us on LinkedIn @blaizeinc.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the timing and scope of the restructuring plan, the amount and timing of the charges associated with the restructuring plan, the expected amount of savings resulting from the restructuring plan, and the Company’s expected use thereof; and the Company’s growth initiatives and business opportunities.

Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances, many of which are outside the Company’s control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are discussed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed with the SEC on March 24, 2026, as amended on April 30, 2026, and the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026, filed with the SEC on August 13, 2026. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update them except as required by law.

Investors Contact
IR@blaize.com

Media Contact
press@blaize.com

Framework prioritizes long-term value creation per share, robust financial strength, disciplined growth and proactive capital-structure management.

HOUSTON, Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carriage Services, Inc. (NYSE: CSV) (“Carriage” or the “Company”) announced today a comprehensive capital allocation framework designed to enhance long-term shareholder value per share, strengthen the Company’s financial position and support the execution of its 2030 Vision.

As part of the framework, Carriage is terminating its existing $100 million at-the-market equity offering (“ATM”) program, effective October 4, 2026.

“Our responsibility is not simply to grow Carriage. It is to create sustainable, long-term value on a per-share basis,” said Carlos Quezada, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “With the completion of our new credit facility, we have strengthened our liquidity and positioned Carriage to operate with greater financial flexibility. After listening to our shareholders’ concerns and evaluating our current valuation, free-cash-flow outlook and expected capital requirements, we concluded that maintaining the ATM program was not in the best interests of our shareholders.”

Quezada continued, “We do not believe issuing equity at current valuation levels appropriately reflects Carriage’s intrinsic value or our long-term earnings potential. This framework provides investors greater clarity regarding how we intend to deploy capital: investing in our businesses, strengthening our balance sheet, pursuing selective acquisitions, repurchasing shares and proactively managing our long-term capital structure. Given the Company’s fundamentals and consistent performance over the past several years relative to the market’s recent valuation of our stock, we believe it is prudent to be positioned to repurchase shares when we believe a meaningful performance-to-valuation disconnect exists.”

In a separate release issued today, Carriage announced that it has entered into a new $300 million revolving credit facility with a new bank syndicate led by JPMorgan Chase, replacing its existing $250 million facility. The new facility expands its banking relationships and is expected to strengthen Carriage’s liquidity and enhance its financial flexibility. For more information regarding the Company’s new credit facility, a copy of that press release is available on the Company’s investor relations website.

A Disciplined Capital Allocation Hierarchy

Carriage’s capital allocation decisions will be guided by a fundamental objective: creating sustainable long-term value per share while maintaining a strong and appropriately capitalized balance sheet.

The Company’s first priority is to fund the operating and strategic needs of its existing businesses. Beyond those investments, Carriage will balance debt reduction, selective acquisitions and share repurchases based on their expected returns, strategic value and impact on long-term value per share.

The increased capacity under the new credit facility is a source of financial flexibility, not a change in Carriage’s leverage philosophy. The Company remains committed to disciplined leverage and strengthening its credit profile.

Share repurchases and acquisitions will therefore be balanced against Carriage’s leverage objectives and its priority of strengthening the Company’s financial position well ahead of the maturity of its Senior Notes in May 2029.

Specifically, Carriage plans to allocate capital according to the following priorities.

Investing in Our Core Business

Carriage will continue to fund the maintenance and growth investments necessary to strengthen its existing businesses, deliver premier experiences to client families and support sustainable organic growth.

Capital will be directed toward opportunities that improve the performance of Carriage’s funeral homes and cemeteries, including new cemetery developments and inventory, as well as new systems and capabilities required to execute the Company’s 2030 Vision.

Strengthening Our Balance Sheet and Capital Structure

Reducing leverage and strengthening the Company’s credit profile remain central priorities.

A key objective of the framework is to position Carriage well in advance of the maturity of its $400 million of outstanding principal amount of 4.25% Senior Notes in May 2029. Through these efforts, the Company intends to enhance its refinancing flexibility and position itself to achieve an attractive and sustainable cost of capital, consistent with prudent leverage and liquidity management.

Consistent with these objectives, Carriage is lowering its targeted leverage ratio range from 3.5x–4.0x to 3.0x–3.5x.

The Company expects to progress toward this target through consistent operating performance, growth in Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA and free cash flow, disciplined debt reduction and prudent capital deployment.

The timing and structure of any future refinancing of Carriage’s Senior Notes due May 2029 will depend on the Company’s operating performance and credit profile, prevailing market conditions, interest rates and other relevant considerations.

Continuing to Pursue Selective, High-Quality Acquisitions

Strategic acquisitions remain an important component of Carriage’s 2030 Vision. The Company will continue to pursue premier businesses that demonstrate strong cultural and strategic alignment, sustainable earnings, attractive returns on invested capital and the ability to create long-term value per share.

Potential acquisitions will be evaluated against the Company’s leverage, liquidity and capital-structure objectives. Carriage will not pursue growth for growth’s sake or undertake transactions that compromise its balance-sheet priorities.

The Company intends to remain selective and disciplined, pursuing acquisitions when the strategic and financial merits justify the deployment of capital.

Continued Focus on Execution

Carriage remains focused on achieving its operating and financial commitments while advancing its 2030 Vision. The Company expects to provide its next operating and financial update in connection with the release of its third-quarter results, at which time it will also provide an update regarding its ongoing strategic acquisition activities.

“The team at Carriage focuses on connecting intention with execution,” Quezada concluded. “This framework applies that same discipline to every dollar we deploy. We will invest in our businesses, deliver on our commitments, strengthen our balance sheet, prepare thoughtfully for our long-term capital needs, acquire premier businesses that meet our standards and repurchase our shares when we believe they represent an attractive investment.”

“We will remain flexible and intentional in allocating capital. Our objective is not growth for its own sake, nor is it simply debt reduction or share repurchases. Our objective is to deploy every dollar where we believe it can create the greatest sustainable long-term value per share, while maintaining the financial strength necessary to execute on our 2030 Vision.”

About Carriage Services

Carriage Services is a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services and merchandise in the United States. As of June 30, 2026, Carriage operates 155 funeral homes in 24 states and 28 cemeteries in 9 states. Carriage is dedicated to delivering premier experiences through innovation, partnership and elevated service.

For more information, please contact Carriage Services Investor Relations at investorrelations@carriageservices.com.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and contains certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking statements within the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements made herein or elsewhere by us, or on our behalf, other than statements of historical information, should be deemed to be forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to, statements regarding any projections of earnings, revenue, cash flow, adjusted EBITDA, investment returns, capital allocation, debt levels, equity performance, death rates, market share growth, cost inflation, overhead, preneed sales or other financial items; any statements of management of the plans, strategies, objectives and timing of management related to our capital allocation framework, including our planned uses of free cash flow and future capital allocation, including share repurchases, internal growth projects, potential strategic acquisitions, or debt repayment or refinancing plans; any statements of the plans, strategies, objectives and timing of management for future operations or financing activities, including, but not limited to, organizational performance, execution of our strategic objectives and growth strategy, planned acquisitions and divestitures, technology improvements, product development, the ability to obtain credit or financing, the ability to refinance outstanding indebtedness, anticipated integration, performance and other benefits of recently completed and anticipated acquisitions, and cost management and debt reductions; any statements of the plans, timing and objectives of management for acquisition and divestiture activities; any statements regarding future economic conditions and market conditions or performance; or any statements of belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing and are based on our current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effect on us. Words such as “may”, “will”, “estimate”, “intend”, “believe”, “expect”, “seek”, “project”, “forecast”, “foresee”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “plan”, “anticipate” and other similar words may be used to identify forward-looking statements; however, the absence of these words does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. While we believe these assumptions concerning future events are reasonable as and when made, there can be no assurance that future developments affecting us will be those that we anticipate. All comments concerning our expectations for future revenue and operating results are based on our forecasts for our existing operations and do not include the potential impact of any future acquisitions or divestitures, except where specifically noted. Our forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties (some of which are beyond our control) and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: our ability to find and retain skilled personnel; the effects of our talent recruitment efforts, incentive, and compensation plans and programs, including such effects on our Standards Operating Model and the Company’s operational and financial performance; our ability to execute our strategic objectives and growth strategy, if at all; our ability to meet the timing, objectives, and expectations related to our 2030 Vision, if at all; the potential adverse effects on the Company’s business, financial and equity performance if management fails to meet the expectations of its strategic objectives and growth plan; the execution of our Standards Operating and strategic acquisition frameworks; the effects of competition; changes in the number of deaths in our markets, which are not predictable from market to market or over the short term; changes in consumer preferences and our ability to adapt to or meet those changes; our ability to generate preneed sales, including implementing our cemetery portfolio sales strategy, product development, and optimization plans; the investment performance of our funeral and cemetery trust funds; fluctuations in interest rates, including, but not limited to, the effects of increased borrowing costs under our new credit facility and our ability to minimize such costs, if at all; the effects of inflation on our operational and financial performance, including the increased overall costs for our goods and services, the impact on customer preferences as a result of changes in discretionary income, and our ability, if at all, to mitigate such effects; our ability to obtain debt or equity financing on satisfactory terms to fund additional acquisitions, expansion projects, working capital requirements and the repayment or refinancing of indebtedness; our ability to meet the timing, objectives and expectations related to our capital allocation framework, including our forecasted rates of return, planned uses of free cash flow and future capital allocation, including debt repayment plans, internal growth projects, potential strategic acquisitions, share repurchases, or dividend increases; our ability to meet the projected financial and performance guidance of our updated full year outlook, if at all; the timely and full payment of death benefits related to preneed funeral contracts funded through life insurance policies; the financial condition of third-party insurance companies that fund our preneed funeral contracts; increased or unanticipated costs, such as merchandise, goods, insurance or taxes, and our ability to mitigate or minimize such costs, if at all; our level of indebtedness and the cash required to service our indebtedness; changes in federal income tax laws and regulations and the implementation and interpretation of these laws and regulations by the Internal Revenue Service, including changes and potential impacts, if any, resulting from the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act; effects of the application of other applicable laws and regulations, including changes in such regulations or the interpretation thereof; the potential impact of epidemics and pandemics, including any new or emerging public health threats, on customer preferences and on our business; government, social, business, and other actions that have been and will be taken in response to pandemics and epidemics, including potential responses to any new or emerging public health threats; effects and expense of litigation; consolidation in the funeral and cemetery industry; our ability to identify and consummate strategic acquisitions on commercially reasonable terms and on a timely basis, if at all, and successfully integrate acquired businesses with our existing businesses, including expected performance and financial improvements related thereto; our ability to successfully complete any non-core asset divestitures on commercially reasonable terms and on a timely basis, if at all, and the impact of any such divestitures on our Company, including any financial, operational, tax or other similar impacts related thereto; the effects of any additional imposition or changes in tariffs or trade agreements including, but not limited to, any potential disruptions in international trade, any increased inflationary pressures on the economy or costs for our goods, and our ability, if at all, to mitigate such effects; economic, financial, and stock market fluctuations; significant weather events, natural disasters, or catastrophic events; uncertainty around, and disruption from, new and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (“AI”) and generative AI, and the failure to adapt or successfully incorporate such technologies into the Company’s business; interruptions or security lapses of our information technology, including any cybersecurity or ransomware incidents; adverse developments affecting the financial services industry; military conflicts, acts of war or terrorists acts and the governmental or military response to such acts or conflicts; our failure to maintain effective control over financial reporting; and other factors and uncertainties inherent in the funeral and cemetery industry.

For additional information regarding known material factors that could cause our actual results to differ from our projected results, please see “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and in other filings with the SEC, available at www.carriageservices.com. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of the applicable communication and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except to the extent required by applicable law.

TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TAPI (Technology & API Services) today announced the appointment of Serge Rogasik as its Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Rogasik will lead a global business that combines a broad API portfolio, deep scientific and technical capabilities, and an extensive global operations network serving customers worldwide.

“I am honored to join TAPI at such an important moment in its evolution,” said Mr. Rogasik. “TAPI combines a unique set of capabilities, assets and talented people with a well-earned reputation as a trusted partner to customers worldwide. As the pharmaceutical industry increasingly focuses on supply chain resilience and geographic diversification, TAPI is uniquely positioned to support its customers. Few companies can match one of the industry’s broadest technology platforms and an integrated manufacturing and R&D network spanning India, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. I am excited by the momentum in the business and see significant opportunities ahead to further strengthen TAPI’s position as a leading integrated API and CDMO partner.”

Founded in 1935, TAPI is one of the world’s largest producers of active pharmaceutical ingredients and a leading CDMO partner with more than 4,000 employees, 13 manufacturing sites and six R&D facilities, supplying more than 350 active ingredients to customers around the world. Through its API and CDMO businesses, TAPI helps customers bring effective medicines to patients around the world.

Mr. Rogasik and the TAPI team will be at CPHI Milan, October 6–8, 2026, in Hall 3, Booth A73. Customers and partners are invited to stop by to meet him and the teams behind TAPI’s catalog and CDMO businesses.

About Serge Rogasik

Mr. Rogasik is a transformation-focused global executive with more than 25 years of experience building, scaling and repositioning businesses across specialty ingredients, active ingredients, specialty chemicals and life sciences. He has spent a significant part of his career leading private equity-backed companies through complex carve-outs, accelerated growth, portfolio transformation, M&A and operational improvement in highly regulated markets – building stronger, more focused businesses that deliver sustainable long-term value. Most recently, as President and Chief Executive Officer of Kensing, a specialty ingredients company owned by One Rock Capital Partners, he helped transform a single-site carve-out from BASF into a global platform serving the personal care, nutrition, pharmaceutical and agrochemical markets. Under his leadership, Kensing integrated four acquisitions, expanded its global footprint and became the world leader in natural vitamin E and sterols.

Prior to Kensing, Mr. Rogasik led growth and transformation initiatives at Vantage Specialty Chemicals and Addivant, where he helped turn carve-outs and underperforming businesses into stronger, more focused global platforms through commercial expansion, operational improvement and strategic acquisitions. Earlier in his career, he held senior strategy, commercial, marketing and research roles with BASF, General Electric, Eastman Chemical Company, Rhône-Poulenc and Colgate-Palmolive, building deep international experience across specialty chemicals, life sciences and consumer markets.

Mr. Rogasik holds a Master of Science in Industrial Pharmacy and a postgraduate degree in Pharmaceutical Industry Management from the Institut des Sciences Pharmaceutiques et Biologiques de Lyon. Since 2023, he has served as Chairman of the International Association of Sterol and Stanol Producers and previously served on the Board of Directors of World Child Cancer USA.

About TAPI

TAPI is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), building blocks and key starting materials (KSMs) providing one of the industry’s most comprehensive API portfolios. TAPI also offers customized CDMO services, utilizing their extensive expertise in a wide range of technologies to meet the diverse needs of partners, ensuring flexibility and excellence in every project. With 4,100 employees, a global footprint in 100+ countries, 13 sites worldwide, and a robust portfolio of 350+ high-quality products, TAPI’s operations are integral to the delivery of high-quality, safe and effective medications to patients worldwide, supported by a sophisticated supply chain, focused innovative manufacturing, regulatory and quality excellence and a commitment to sustainability. For more information about how TAPI is advancing health from the core, visit www.tapi.com.

Teva Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This Press Release contains 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,” “may,” “project,” “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 execute TAPI’s next phase of growth and anticipated business performance; our ability to successfully execute on our Pivot to Growth strategy, including to expand our innovative and biosimilar medicines pipeline and profitably commercialize the innovative medicines and biosimilar portfolio, whether organically or through business development; 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.

TAPI Media Inquiries: tapi.communications@tapi.com

Teva Investor Relations Inquiries: TevaIR@Tevapharm.com

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HOUSTON, Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carriage Services, Inc. (NYSE: CSV) (“Carriage” or the “Company”), a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services and merchandise in the United States, today announced the closing of a new $300 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “New Facility”).

The New Facility replaces Carriage’s existing $250 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Previous Facility”), increasing committed borrowing capacity by $50 million.

The New Facility has a stated maturity of September 30, 2031, subject to a customary springing-maturity provision tied to the Company’s 4.25% senior notes due 2029. It replaces the Company’s Previous Facility, which was scheduled to mature on July 31, 2029, and included a springing-maturity provision.

Borrowings under the New Facility bear interest at the Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate plus 1.25% to 2.00% or an alternate base rate plus 0.25% and 1.00%, at the Company’s election, depending on the Company’s total net leverage ratio at the time of the applicable borrowing.

Based on the Company’s current leverage level, the New Facility is expected to reduce the effective borrowing margin by approximately 50 basis points as total net leverage declines below 4.0x. The New Facility also provides improved commitment-fee pricing across most leverage tiers, which is expected to meaningfully lower the Company’s cost of capital, enhance expected returns on incremental growth investments, and support a disciplined balance sheet.

The Company’s obligations under the New Facility are guaranteed by certain wholly owned subsidiaries and secured by a first-priority lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company and of the subsidiary guarantors.

The New Facility provides additional flexibility to support working capital, capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, refinancing activities and other general corporate purposes. It also includes additional covenant flexibility for qualifying acquisitions while maintaining the Company’s baseline maximum leverage ratio of 5.00x and minimum fixed-charge coverage ratio of 1.20x.

“The closing of our new credit facility represents another important step in strengthening Carriage’s capital structure and advancing the Company’s long-term growth strategy,” said Carlos Quezada, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Carriage Services. “The increased capacity, lowered costs, and enhanced flexibility support our ability to invest in our premier businesses and pursue attractive acquisition opportunities while maintaining a disciplined and balanced approach to capital allocation.”

John Enwright, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, added, “We are pleased to have proactively completed this facility with the strong support of our new and existing lending partners. The new agreement increases our committed capacity, extends our stated maturity profile and reduces borrowing spreads across the pricing grid. It also provides greater flexibility to execute our growth and capital-allocation priorities while preserving the financial discipline that remains central to our strategy.”

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. serves as Administrative Agent and acted as Lead Left Bookrunner and Lead Left Arranger. Truist Bank and Regions Bank also acted as Joint Bookrunners, Joint Lead Arrangers and Co-Syndication Agents.

Additional information regarding the New Facility will be included in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Carriage Services
Carriage Services is a leading provider of funeral and cemetery services and merchandise in the United States. As of June 30, 2026, Carriage operates 155 funeral homes in 24 states and 28 cemeteries in 9 states. Carriage is dedicated to delivering premier experiences through innovation, partnership, and elevated service.

For more information, please contact us at investorrelations@carriageservices.com.

Cautionary Statement

Certain statements made herein or elsewhere by, or on behalf of, Carriage (the “Company”) that are not historical facts are intended to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements are based on assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable; however, many important factors, as discussed under “Forward-Looking Statements and Cautionary Statements” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, could cause the Company’s results in the future to differ materially from the forward-looking statements made herein and in any other documents or oral presentations made by, or on behalf of, the Company. The Company assumes no obligation to update or publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements made herein or any other forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, the Company. A copy of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other information about the Company and news releases, are available at https://www.carriageservices.com.

GREENVILLE, S.C., Sept. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE: UCB) announces it will release its third quarter 2026 financial results on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, before the stock market opens. The company will hold a conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, to discuss its financial results, business highlights, and outlook.

Participants can pre-register for the conference call by navigating to https://dpregister.com/sreg/10209322/1040c6adc70. Those without internet access or unable to pre-register may dial in by calling 1-844-676-1337. The conference call will also be webcast and can be accessed by selecting “Events and Presentations” under “News and Events” within the Investor Relations section of the company’s website, ucbi.com.

About United Community Banks, Inc.

United Community Banks, Inc. (NYSE: UCB) is the financial holding company for United Community, a top-100 U.S. financial institution committed to building stronger communities and improving the financial health and well-being of its customers. United Community offers a full range of banking, mortgage and wealth management services. As of June 30, 2026, United Community Banks, Inc. had $29.1 billion in assets and operated 200 offices across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The company also manages a nationally recognized SBA lending franchise, extending its reach to businesses across the country. United Community is the most awarded bank in the Southeast for Retail Banking Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power, earning more awards than any other bank in the region, including recognition in 12 of the last 17 years. The company has also been named one of the “Best Banks to Work For” by American Banker for nine consecutive years. In commercial banking, United Community earned multiple 2026 Greenwich Best Bank awards for Small Business Banking. Forbes has consistently named United Community among the World’s Best and America’s Best Banks. Learn more at ucbi.com.

For more information:

Tom Speir
Chief Financial Officer
(864) 240-6208
Investor_Relations@ucbi.com