Month: September 2026

• The four-year expansion will focus on childhood overweight and obesity prevention for over 80 million children across seven priority countries: Mexico, Colombia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Egypt and Kenya
• Novo will commit USD 18 million from 2026 to 2030. The four-year programme will run from 2027 to 2030, while funding begins in 2026 to support programme inception and preparation
• Childhood obesity has surpassed underweight globally for the first time on record. One in five children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 is now living with overweight, including obesity¹

Bagsværd, Denmark / New York, United States, 22 September 2026 – Novo Nordisk and UNICEF today announced a four-year expansion of their global partnership to help prevent childhood overweight and obesity, aiming to support a healthier start in life for more than 80 million children. Novo is committing USD 18 million from 2026 to 2030 to advance evidence-based policies and prevention services in seven priority countries. The expansion arrives at a turning point in global child health: childhood obesity has now surpassed underweight globally for the first time on record, according to UNICEF’s 2025 Child Nutrition Report.¹

From 2026 to 2030, the partnership will support governments to create environments that ensure healthier options are more accessible to children and families— from the food that is offered and promoted to children, to the schools, cities and health services they rely on every day.

“It is concerning that childhood obesity has surpassed underweight, affecting 1 in 10 school-aged children and adolescents globally,” said Kitty van der Heijden, Deputy Executive Director, Partnerships, UNICEF. “The moment to act is now. Through our partnership with Novo, UNICEF will work with governments to turn evidence into policies, build services, and create environments that protect children early, so every child has a fair chance to eat well, move, feel supported and grow up healthy.”

“Preventing childhood obesity requires long-term, collective action to create healthier environments for children,” said Elin Jäger, SVP, chief of staff and head of CEO Office, Corporate Strategy and Sustainability, Novo. “Through our continued partnership with UNICEF, we want to support proven prevention approaches that can become part of the systems children rely on every day, helping create healthier environments for more than 80 million children.”

Building on joint progress since 2019

Since 2019, Novo and UNICEF have helped raise childhood overweight and obesity from an under-recognised issue to a growing global policy and public health priority. Building on this foundation, the next phase of the partnership will deepen efforts in existing countries and expand to new contexts, combining evidence-based policy advocacy, technical assistance, youth-led advocacy and peer support, and social and behaviour change communication.

Scope of the expanded programme

The expanded programme will support action in Mexico, Colombia, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Egypt and Kenya, while accelerating learning across regions.

Interventions will include:

• Growth monitoring
• Nutrition and physical activity counselling
• Peer and family support
• Community- and facility-based prevention activities
• Youth advocacy
• Basic mental health screening and support
• Legislation to promote better diets and healthy food

Success will be measured by the number of children reached by evidence-based prevention policies and interventions. Progress and challenges will be reported transparently.

The scale of the challenge

Childhood overweight and obesity now affect around 35 million children under 5 and more than 391 million children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, with 81 per cent of them living in low- and middle-income countries.¹ The impacts can be immediate and lifelong, increasing the risk of early-onset type 2 diabetes and other non-communicable diseases, while also affecting children’s wellbeing through stigma and discrimination.

Delivery will be country-led and anchored in UNICEF’s Centres of Excellence model, led from Nairobi with satellite support in Bangkok and Panama.

For further information on the partnership and programme progress, visit novonordisk.com/sustainable-business and unicef.org

UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, organisation, product or service.

Novo is the global healthcare company that believes lasting health starts now. For over a century, we’ve combined leading scientific expertise with a deep understanding of people’s lives. We develop treatments and support that help millions of people make progress they can see, feel and sustain now and in the future. Every day, over 67,000 employees around the world advance our purpose to drive change for lasting health. Through our partnerships, programmes and investments, we’re working to prevent disease, expand access to treatments and reduce our environmental impact to help even more people live healthier lives. For more information, visit novonordisk.com and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, Facebook, X and YouTube. 

Contacts for further information 

Novo Nordisk Media:
Ambre James-Brown  +45 3079 9289  globalmedia@novonordisk.com	Liz Skrbkova (US)  +1 609 917 0632  USMediaRelations@novonordisk.com
Novo Nordisk Investors:
Michael Novod  +45 3075 6050  nvno@novonordisk.com	Sina Meyer   +45 3079 6656   azey@novonordisk.com
Christoffer Togo Solgaard-Tullin  +45 3079 1471  cftu@novonordisk.com
Ida Schaap Melvold  +45 3077 5649  idmg@novonordisk.com	Mads Berner Bruun  +45 3075 2936  mbbz@novonordisk.com
Frederik Taylor Pitter (US)  +1 609 613 0568  fptr@novonordisk.com	Alex Bruce (US)  +1 640 230 0276  axeu@novonordisk.com

_______________________ 
References 

1. Feeding Profit: How food environments are failing children – 2025 Child Nutrition Report – UNICEF DATA – last accessed September 2026

Attachment

• PR260922_Novo_UNICEF

Transactions during 15 September 2026 – 21 September 2026
On 7 May 2026, Alm. Brand A/S announced a share buy-back program of up to DKK 593 million, as described in company announcement no. 23/2026.

The program is carried out in accordance with the Regulation No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and Council of 16 April 2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052, also referred to as the Safe Harbour Regulations.

The following transactions were made under the share buy-back program 15 September – 21 September 2026:

	Number of shares bought	Average purchase price	Amount (DKK)
Accumulated, last announcement 15 September 2026 16 September 2026 17 September 2026 18 September 2026 21 September 2026	12,127,667 59,000  255,000  204,000  250,000  259,000	16.37 17.12 17.19 17.24 17.16 17.43	198,486,915 1,010,086 4,384,215 3,517,858 4,290,900 4,513,826
Total, 15 September – 21 September 2026	1,027,000	17.25	17,716,885
Accumulated under the program	13,154,667	16.44	216,203,800

With the transactions stated above Alm. Brand A/S holds a total of 45,891,339 own shares, corresponding to 3.27% of the total number of outstanding shares.

Contact
Please direct any questions regarding this announcement to:

Investors and equity analysts:                                 

VP, Head of Investor Relations & ESG                    
Mads Thinggaard                                                       

Mobile no, +45 2025 5469                                      

Attachments

• Alm Brand_Share buyback 15 September – 21 September 2026
• AS 52 2026 – Transactions under share buyback program

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company, today announces it received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has completed the first surgical cases with LANDMARK Total Knee System, a next-generation knee replacement solution designed to replicate healthy knee anatomy and the knee’s natural motion and support a more personalized approach to total knee arthroplasty.

As expectations for total knee arthroplasty continue to evolve, surgeons and patients are seeking the most advanced and tailored solutions when they choose a knee replacement solution. The LANDMARK Knee meets those goals through an anatomy-driven implant that was designed to leverage the full capabilities of CORI^◊ KNEE Handheld Robotics Arthroplasty.¹ The compact footprint and mobility of Handheld Robotics is optimized for use across both hospital and ambulatory surgery center (ASC) environments.

Key features of the LANDMARK Knee include:
     • Designed to replicate healthy knee anatomy and restore the natural motion and A/P position with less compromise^2-6*
     • Smooth, flat trochlear groove entry point to promote more natural patella tracking ^2,7,8*
     • Fully 3D-printed femoral component utilizing CONCELOC^◊ Technology³

“It is truly a landmark moment for Orthopaedics at Smith+Nephew. The future of knee replacement is increasingly personalized, and surgeons need technologies that help them deliver individualized care with confidence and efficiency,” said Nate Folkert, President, Smith+Nephew Orthopaedics. “Together, the natural design of LANDMARK Knee paired with CORI KNEE Handheld Robotics Arthroplasty provides a powerful solution to address the evolving needs of orthopaedic surgery.”

The first LANDMARK Knee surgical cases were completed this week by Dr. Steven MacDonald, Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western University and London Health Sciences Centre in London, Ontario, who is one of the surgeons who helped with the design and development of this innovative implant system. “Knee replacement surgery has changed so much in recent years driven by the momentum of personalized medicine and an influx of innovative approaches,” explained Dr. MacDonald. “Whether achieved via the state-of-the-art new LANDMARK instrumentation system or in combination with the planning and balancing capabilities of the CORI KNEE Handheld Robotics Arthroplasty, the LANDMARK Knee provides us the flexibility to make patient-specific decisions while maintaining procedural efficiency. It is the perfect fit for surgeons looking to align with the principles of personalized care as the LANDMARK Knee was designed to meet the needs of surgeons and patients today and tomorrow.” 

Dr. Steven Haas, Chief of the Knee Service at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York, was also a surgeon developer for the LANDMARK Knee. “The LANDMARK Knee was designed to address one of the biggest challenges in total knee arthroplasty, which is restoring anatomy without forcing unnecessary compromise,” Dr. Haas said. “Its anatomic design helps accommodate the patient’s natural anatomy while supporting personalized alignment and patellofemoral function.”

The LANDMARK Knee will be commercially introduced through a phased launch focused on early customer adoption, with broader availability across markets expected throughout 2027. Smith+Nephew will be unveiling its new knee system to HCP attendees during the American Association of Hip & Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) Annual Meeting in Dallas November 5-8. Stop by booth number 621 to see the new LANDMARK Knee in action.

To learn more, visit our LANDMARK Knee web page.

                                                                                                       – ends –  

Media Inquiries

Gina Kamler
+1 (901) 262-9070
gina.kamler@smith-nephew.com

*Compared to conventional TKA designs

References
1. Smith+Nephew 2026. Internal Report. CSD.REC.26.003_v1
2. Smith + Nephew 2026. Internal Report. CSD.REC.26.004_v1
3. Smith+Nephew 2026. Internal Report. K24-PFET/CFET
4. Grieco TF, Sharma A, Dessinger GM, Cates HE, Komistek RD. In Vivo Kinematic Comparison of a Bicruciate Stabilized Total Knee Arthroplasty and the Normal Knee Using Fluoroscopy. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(2):565-571.
5. Almaawi A, Hutt J, Masse V, Lavigne M, Vendittoli P. Impact of mechanical and restricted kinematic alignment on Knee anatomy in Total Knee Arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 2017;32(7):2133-2140.
6. MacDessi SJ, Griffith-Jones W, Harris IA, Bellemans J, Chen DB. Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) classification. Bone Joint J. 2021;103-B(2):329-337. 7. Smith+Nephew 2026. Verification for Femur Implants
7. Fugit W, Lenz N. “Challenging Native Patella Positions Benefit with Flat Proximal Trochlea” The International Society for Technology in Arthroplasty, 37th Annual Congress, 2026, Munich, Germany, September
8. Fugit W, Lenz N. “The Benefits of a Kinematically Designed Femoral Implant Versus Symmetric Implants” The International Society for Technology in Arthroplasty, 37th Annual Congress, 2026, Munich, Germany, September

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.

For more information about Smith+Nephew, please visit www.smith-nephew.com and follow us on X, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.

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.

New director brings nephrology development expertise and over 30 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SCYNEXIS, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCYX) (“SCYNEXIS” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to advancing innovative solutions for severe rare diseases, today announced the appointment of Steven K. Burke, M.D., to its Board of Directors, effective September 18, 2026.

Dr. Burke brings more than 30 years of industry experience, with a particular focus on drug development for chronic kidney disease. He has worked at Akebia Therapeutics, Inc. since 2019, and has served as its Senior Vice President, Chief Research and Development Officer and Chief Medical Officer since 2021. Dr. Burke has responsibility for Akebia’s research and development functions, including research, toxicology, pharmacology, clinical operations, data management, biostatistics, clinical research, regulatory affairs, drug safety and pharmacovigilance, and medical affairs. During his time, he has had a leadership role in the development of Vafseo® (vadadustat) for anemia due to chronic kidney disease and has supported Auryxia® (ferric citrate). He also oversees development programs including praliciguat and ebribafusp alfa for glomerular diseases and other investigational programs. Prior to joining Akebia, Dr. Burke founded Abfero Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and served on its board through its acquisition by Pharmacosmos A/S. Earlier in his career, Dr. Burke served as Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Proteon Therapeutics, Inc. from 2006 to 2019 and in senior positions at several other biotechnology companies including Genzyme Inc.

“2026 has been a transformative year for SCYNEXIS following the acquisition of SCY-770, a promising drug candidate in development for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease,” said Guy Macdonald, Chairman of the Board of SCYNEXIS. “As we continue to progress SCY-770, we are excited to add Steven’s deep expertise in drug development for chronic kidney disease. On behalf of the Company and my fellow Board members, I welcome Steven and we look forward to his guidance.”

“This is a very exciting time to join the SCYNEXIS Board as the Company prepares to enter Phase 2 with SCY-770,” said Dr. Burke. “SCYNEXIS has acquired a very promising asset and combined with its well-established expertise in antifungal development, is poised to become a leader in advancing therapies for severe rare diseases. I look forward to leveraging my drug development and biopharmaceutical industry experience to help SCYNEXIS deliver better outcomes for patients and create significant shareholder value.”

Dr. Burke received an A.B. from Harvard College and an M.D. from Cornell University Medical School. He completed a residency and fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and is board certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology and has maintained a Massachusetts medical license since 1989.

About SCY-770

SCY-770, a novel and highly selective, direct Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, is being developed as a disease-modifying therapy for ADPKD, a progressive genetic kidney disorder and the leading genetic cause of end-stage renal disease, affecting approximately 140,000 diagnosed patients in the United States. AMPK activation suppresses the mTOR and cAMP signaling pathways that drive cyst cell proliferation and fluid secretion in ADPKD, providing a mechanistically differentiated approach to slowing disease progression. SCY-770 has been evaluated in several Phase 1 trials and one Phase 2a trial in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Compelling preclinical pharmacology data supports its potential utility in ADPKD. The Company aims to develop SCY-770 with the goal of reducing cyst growth and disease progression and improving patient quality of life. SCY-770 has been granted Orphan Drug Designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ADPKD.

About SCYNEXIS

SCYNEXIS, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCYX) is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to advancing innovative solutions for severe rare diseases. SCY-770 is being developed for the treatment of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) and has been granted Orphan Drug designation. SCYNEXIS’s proprietary antifungal platform “fungerps” includes BREXAFEMME® (ibrexafungerp tablets), the first approved representative of this novel class, which has been licensed to GSK, and SCY-247, currently in clinical stages of development. For more information, visit www.scynexis.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release regarding expected future events or results are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to statements regarding: the anticipated timing and results of Phase 2 trial of SCY-770, and the Company’s ability to become a leader in advancing therapies for severe rare diseases, and other statements identified by words such as “will,” “potential,” “could,” “can,” “believe,” “intends,” “continue,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “may,” other words of similar meaning or the use of future dates. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks inherent in regulatory and other costs in developing products. For the Company, this includes the future prospects of the Company’s SCY-770 program, the timing and results of the Company’s anticipated Phase 2 proof-of-concept clinical study evaluating SCY-770, stock price volatility and uncertainties relating to the financial markets, the medical community and the global economy, and the impact of instability in general business and economic conditions, including changes in inflation and interest rates. These and other risks are described more fully in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including without limitation, its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 4, 2026, including under the caption “Risk Factors,” and in other filings the Company makes with the SEC from time to time. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

CONTACT: 
Investor Relations
John Fraunces
LifeSci Advisors
Tel: 917-355-2395
jfraunces@lifesciadvisors.com

SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clene Inc. (Nasdaq: CLNN) today announced that management will participate at the 5^th Annual ROTH Healthcare Opportunities Conference and at the Lytham Partners Investor Conference Fall Event and host 1×1 investor meetings at both conferences.

5^th Annual ROTH Healthcare Opportunities Conference
Date: September 29, 2026
Location: New York, NY
Format: 1×1 meetings
1×1 Meetings: Please contact your ROTH representative

Lytham Partners Investor Conference Fall Event
Date: September 29-30, 2026
Time of Presentation: 9:45 am ET
Location: Virtual
Format: Presentation and 1×1 meetings
1×1 Meetings: Please contact your Lytham representative
Webcast: link to webcast

A webcast of the presentation will be available on the “Events” section of the Clene website or using the webcast links above.

About Clene
Clene Inc., (Nasdaq: CLNN) (along with its subsidiaries, “Clene”) and its wholly owned subsidiary Clene Nanomedicine Inc., is a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mitochondrial health and protecting neuronal function to treat neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. CNM-Au8^® is an investigational first-in-class therapy that improves central nervous system cells’ survival and function via a mechanism that targets mitochondrial function and the NAD pathway while reducing oxidative stress. CNM-Au8^® is a federally registered trademark of Clene Nanomedicine, Inc. The company is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, with R&D and manufacturing operations in Maryland. For more information, please visit www.clene.com or follow us on X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.

Investor Contact: Kevin Gardner, LifeSci Advisors; kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com; 617-283-2856
Media Contact: Caroline Wagner, FTP; CWagner@ftpadvocacy.com; (267) 294-6563 

MONTRÉAL, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NioBay Metals Inc. (“NioBay” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: NBY) (OTCQB: NBYCF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Guillaume Bacconnier to its Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Mr. Bacconnier holds a Master’s degree in Polymer Science. Throughout his career, he has held various commercial and operational leadership positions in seven countries. He has been a member of the Rio Tinto Group for approximately 20 years. He currently serves as General Manager of Évolys Québec Inc., a joint venture formed by Rio Tinto and Aymium, a technology company, to produce biocarbon in Canada.

In addition, the Company has approved the grant of 150,000 incentive stock options to Mr. Bacconnier. One-third of these stock options will vest immediately, with the remaining stock options subject to a two-year vesting period. The options have a term of seven years and an exercise price of $0.08 per share. The stock options were granted pursuant to the Company’s Stock Option Plan and are subject to applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Message from NioBay’s President and CEO

“I am very pleased to welcome Guillaume to the Company’s Board of Directors. His drive, extensive experience in large corporations, and involvement in various strategic minerals projects will bring valuable expertise to help us advance through NioBay’s next stages of development.”

About NioBay Metals Inc.

NioBay aims to become a leader in the development of mine(s) with low carbon consumption and responsible water and wildlife management practices while prioritizing the environment, social responsibility, good governance, and the inclusion of all stakeholders. Our top priority, which is critical to our success, is the consent and full participation of the Indigenous communities in whose territories and/or on ancestral lands we operate.

In addition to other properties, NioBay holds a 100% interest in the James Bay Niobium Project located 45 km south of Moosonee, in the Moose Cree Traditional Territory of the James Bay Lowlands in Ontario. NioBay also holds an 80.2% interest in the Crevier Niobium and Tantalum project located in Québec and on the Nitassinan (ancestral territory) of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation. 

About Niobium

Niobium is a naturally occurring element. It is a metal that is ductile, malleable and highly resistant to corrosion. Because it enhances properties and functionalities, niobium is used in a wide range of materials and applications in the Mobility, Structural and Energy sectors. Niobium transforms materials. When added to materials like steel, glass and aluminum castings, niobium makes them more efficient and lowers environmental impacts, while also increased value.

About Tantalum

One of the main uses of tantalum is in the production of electronic components. Tantalum (Ta) causes no immune response in mammals, so has found wide use in the making of surgical implants. It can replace bone, for example, in skull plates; as foil or wire, it connects torn nerves; as woven gauze it binds abdominal muscle. Tantalum alloys can be extremely strong and have been used for turbine blades, rocket nozzles and internal combustion engines.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements in this news release constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information may be identified by such terms as “anticipates”, “believes”, “targets”, “estimates”, “plans”, “expects”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “may”, “will”, “could” or “would” or the negative connotation thereof. These statements are necessarily based on a number of management’s beliefs, assumptions, and opinions as of the date they are made and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those anticipated or projected, including those risks set out in the Company’s public disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Company’s issuer profile. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information is considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. The Company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements should management’s beliefs, estimates, or opinions, or other factors, change, except as required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

NioBay Metals Inc. Jean-Sebastien David, geo. President & Chief Executive Officer Tel.: 514 866-6500 jsdavid@niobaymetals.com www.niobaymetals.com

Kimberly Darlington Investor Relations kimberly@refinedsubstance.com Tel: 514-771-3398

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Encore Technologies Corp. (“Encore” or the “Company”) (CSE: ENCR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lieutenant-General (Retired) Michael (Mike) Hood, CMM, CD, former Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, as Strategic Advisor to the Company.

Mr. Hood brings more than three decades of military leadership, including senior responsibilities in force development, international security policy and strategic operations. As Strategic Advisor, he will support Encore’s activities and opportunities in the space sector through strategic advice, business development, and government and industry relationships. His appointment is particularly relevant to the Company’s previously announced strategic investment in Solstar Space Company (“Solstar”).

Highlights

• Former Royal Canadian Air Force Commander Michael Hood appointed Strategic Advisor.
   
• Mr. Hood brings more than three decades of military and aerospace leadership, including extensive experience in capability planning, mission requirements and the adoption of mission-critical technologies.
   
• Appointment strengthens Encore’s capabilities in business development and government and industry engagement as it advances its space-sector strategy and relationship with Solstar.

“Mike brings the perspective of someone who has led a national air force and understands how operational requirements shape the adoption of new technology,” said Stephen Kukucha, Chief Executive Officer of Encore. “His experience will be particularly valuable as we develop our space-sector strategy and build on our relationship with Solstar. Mike will help us assess business opportunities, develop government and industry relationships, and identify where Encore can contribute strategically.”

“Reliable communications are fundamental to effective operations, and the value of a new capability depends on how well it addresses the needs of the people using it,” said Mr. Hood. “I look forward to working with Encore on its space-sector strategy and helping the team build productive relationships across government and industry. The Company’s relationship with Solstar provides a compelling focus for that work as we assess opportunities in space communications and infrastructure.”

Strategic Rationale

Encore closed its strategic investment of approximately US$1.16 million in Solstar on August 4, 2026. Solstar is a U.S.-based company developing communications hardware, software and services for spacecraft and other space infrastructure.

Mr. Hood’s experience in military operations, capability planning and international security cooperation is expected to provide valuable perspective as Encore evaluates opportunities associated with its relationship with Solstar, including the needs of prospective commercial and government customers and potential business development and industry collaborations.

Advisory Role

As Strategic Advisor, Mr. Hood will focus on Encore’s activities and opportunities in the space sector. His role will include:

• Advising on the Company’s space-sector activities and opportunities, including those associated with its relationship with Solstar;
   
• Contributing to business development through the identification and assessment of potential commercial opportunities and collaborations in the space sector; and
   
• Supporting the development of government and industry relationships relevant to Encore’s space-sector activities.

About Michael Hood

Lieutenant-General (Retired) Michael Hood served as Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force from 2015 to 2018, concluding a Canadian Armed Forces career that began in 1985. His earlier appointments included Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Director of the Strategic Joint Staff, Director General Air Force Development and Deputy Director General of International Security Policy. He also commanded 8 Wing Trenton and both 429 and 436 Transport Squadrons.

Mr. Hood qualified as an Air Combat Systems Officer in 1988 and served primarily on the C-130 Hercules, as well as in an electronic warfare role on the CC-144 Challenger. He holds a master’s degree in international relations from Auburn University and completed professional military education in Canada and the United States. He is a Commander of the Order of Military Merit.

In the private sector, Mr. Hood served as Chief of Staff of the JDS Group of Companies and subsequently as President of JDS Operational Technologies. He joined Bluesky Strategy Group as a Senior Associate in 2023 and is a Principal at MH2 Advisory Services, a firm specializing in federal government relations and strategic advice. His commercial advisory work includes innovative technologies, government procurement, operational resilience and corporate strategy.

Grant of Stock Options

The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 400,000 incentive stock options (the “Options”) to an officer and a consultant of the Company. Each Option entitles the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price of C$0.35 for a period of three years from the date of grant.

The Options will vest in two equal instalments, with 50% vesting six months after the grant date and the remaining 50% vesting twelve months after the grant date, subject to the terms of the Company’s stock option plan and the applicable option agreements. The Options were granted in accordance with the Company’s stock option plan and are subject to applicable securities laws and CSE policies.

About Encore Technologies Corp.

Encore Technologies Corp. evaluates and advances technology businesses focused on intelligent infrastructure. The Company’s strategy includes investments and partnerships in technologies that can enhance connectivity, improve operational efficiency and support resilient infrastructure across established and emerging markets.  

For further information contact:
Stephen Kukucha
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: (604) 398-4786

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information includes statements regarding, among other things, the Company’s business strategy, future development plans, expected operational initiatives, and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking information is generally identified by words such as “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “estimates,” “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and assumptions and is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking information except as required by applicable law.

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Phase 1 study with ADG138 for patients with advanced solid tumors is expected to begin in China in the fourth quarter of 2026

ADG138 is a double-masked T-cell engager, applying Adagene’s proprietary SAFEbody® precision masking technology on both HER2 and CD3 binding sites to enable tumor-selective therapy with low systemic toxicity

Preclinical data demonstrated robust tumor regression in tumor models refractory and/or resistant to Enhertu, along with strong synergy in combination with anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1 or anti-CD137 antibodies

SAN DIEGO and SUZHOU, China, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Adagene Inc. (“Adagene”) (Nasdaq: ADAG), a platform-driven, clinical-stage biotechnology company transforming the discovery and development of novel antibody-based therapies, today announced that China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved the company’s investigational new drug (IND) application for ADG138, a double-masked HER2×CD3 bispecific T cell engager built on Adagene’s proprietary SAFEbody® precision masking technology. Adagene expects to initiate a first-in-human Phase 1 study of ADG138 for the treatment of advanced solid tumors in the fourth quarter of 2026.

“The NMPA’s rapid approval of our IND application for ADG138 speaks to the strength of the preclinical package and allows us to bring a differentiated, double-masked T-cell engager into the clinic for patients with HER2-expressing solid tumors,” said Peter Luo, Ph.D., Chairman and President of R&D at Adagene. “In preclinical studies, ADG138 achieved potent, T-cell mediated anti-tumor activity in Enhertu (DS-8201) resistant tumor models while retaining a substantial reduction in cytokine release and a wider therapeutic window relative to an unmasked T-cell engager. We look forward to advancing ADG138 into first-in-human studies and building on the safety and efficacy profile we believe our SAFEbody platform can bring to T-cell engagers in solid tumors.”

A Phase 1, first-in-human, open-label clinical study is designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of ADG138 in patients with advanced solid tumors as well as to determine the recommended dose for Phase 2.

About ADG138

ADG138 is a double-masked HER2×CD3 bispecific T cell engager designed using Adagene’s SAFEbody® precision masking technology, which covalently links masking peptides to both the HER2- and CD3-binding arms of the molecule. In its inactivated state, ADG138 is designed to minimally bind HER2-expressing cancer cells and T cells; the molecule becomes activated within the tumor microenvironment and engages T cells to selectively kill HER2-expressing tumor cells while limiting off-target toxicity.

Preclinical data presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting in 2022 showed that double-masked ADG138 achieved approximately 220-fold and greater than 1,000-fold reductions in binding to HER2 and CD3, respectively, yet translating to high efficiency in T cell-mediated tumor cell killing and T cell activation. ADG138 drove regression in both HER2-high and HER2-low tumor models, including a model refractory and/or resistant to the Enhertu (DS-8201), and showed synergistic anti-tumor activity in combination with anti-CTLA-4, anti-PD-1, or anti-CD137 antibodies. In addition, ADG138 was tolerated at doses over 300-fold higher than an unmasked T-cell engager, with markedly reduced cytokine release and a favorable pharmacokinetic profile, including a longer apparent half-life and higher systemic exposure than the parental molecule.

About Adagene
Adagene Inc. (Nasdaq: ADAG) is a platform-driven, clinical-stage biotechnology company committed to transforming the discovery and development of novel antibody-based cancer immunotherapies. Adagene combines computational biology and artificial intelligence to design novel antibodies that address globally unmet patient needs. The company has forged strategic collaborations with reputable global partners that leverage its SAFEbody® precision masking technology in multiple approaches at the vanguard of science.

Powered by its proprietary Dynamic Precision Library (DPL) platform, composed of NEObody™, SAFEbody, and POWERbody™ technologies, Adagene’s highly differentiated pipeline features novel immunotherapy programs. The company’s SAFEbody technology is designed to address safety and tolerability challenges associated with many antibody therapeutics by using precision masking technology to shield the binding domain of the biologic therapy. Through activation in the tumor microenvironment, this allows for tumor-specific targeting of antibodies, while minimizing on-target off-tumor toxicity in healthy tissues.

Adagene’s lead clinical program, muzastotug (ADG126), is a masked, anti-CTLA-4 SAFEbody with FDA Fast Track designation that targets a unique epitope of CTLA-4 in regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumor microenvironment. Muzastotug is currently in Phase 1b/2 and Phase 2 clinical studies in combination with anti-PD-1 therapy, particularly focused on microsatellite stable (MSS) metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). Validated by ongoing clinical research, the SAFEbody platform can be applied to a wide variety of antibody-based therapeutic modalities, including Fc empowered antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and bi/multi-specific T-cell engagers.

For more information, please visit: https://investor.adagene.com.
Follow Adagene on WeChat, LinkedIn and X.

SAFEbody® is a registered trademark in the United States, China, Australia, Japan, Singapore, and the European Union.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding certain clinical results of ADG138, the potential implications of clinical data for patients, and Adagene’s advancement of, and anticipated preclinical activities, clinical development, regulatory milestones, and commercialization of its product candidates. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including but not limited to Adagene’s ability to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of its drug candidates; the clinical results for its drug candidates, which may not support further development or regulatory approval; the content and timing of decisions made by the relevant regulatory authorities regarding regulatory approval of Adagene’s drug candidates; Adagene’s ability to achieve commercial success for its drug candidates, if approved; Adagene’s ability to obtain and maintain protection of intellectual property for its technology and drugs; Adagene’s reliance on third parties to conduct drug development, manufacturing and other services; Adagene’s limited operating history and Adagene’s ability to obtain additional funding for operations and to complete the development and commercialization of its drug candidates; Adagene’s ability to enter into additional collaboration agreements beyond its existing strategic partnerships or collaborations, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Adagene’s clinical development, commercial and other operations, as well as those risks more fully discussed in the “Risk Factors” section in Adagene’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements are based on information currently available to Adagene, and Adagene undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Investor Contacts:
Raymond Tam
Raymond_tam@adagene.com

Corey Davis
LifeSci Advisors
cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:
Ian Stone
LifeSci Communications
istone@lifescicomms.com

117 soil and 34 rock chip samples collected at the Vent Copper Project

CALGARY, Alberta, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northern Discovery Metals Inc. (CSE: NOR) (FSE: M1V0) (“Northern Discovery” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on its ongoing Stage 1 exploration program at the Vent Copper Project (“Vent” or the “Project”), located in the Alberni Mining Division on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The field team has collected 117 soil samples and 34 rock chip samples to date as part of a program of geological mapping, prospecting and targeted sampling. The Company holds an option to acquire up to a 100% interest in the Project.

The work is being carried out by Geomap Exploration Inc. and follows the Company’s September 3, 2026 mobilization announcement. Stage 1 is designed to refine exploration priorities by examining the relationships between previously identified mineralization responses, geological contacts, structures, alteration and veining. The program was designed to initially focus on the Vent-Ken and Sentinel Peak areas and includes ground checks of priority magnetic and VLF-EM features.

Fieldwork to date has included systematic soil sampling and the examination and sampling of selected rock exposures. Preliminary field descriptions include volcanic and intrusive rocks, with localized chlorite alteration, quartz veining and minor pyrite noted at selected rock sampling sites. These observations will help inform the geological interpretation of the sampling results. Laboratory analysis is required to determine the potential for any metal content, and no assay results from the current program are reported in this release.

“The field team is building the geological and geochemical dataset we need to guide the next stage of exploration at Vent,” said Jared Suchan, Ph.D., P.Geo., Chief Executive Officer and Director of Northern Discovery Metals. “Our priority is to bring the sampling, geological observations and existing geophysical information together to identify where more detailed follow-up is warranted. This systematic approach will help us direct future work toward the strongest targets.”

Qualified Person Statement

Jared Suchan, Ph.D., P.Geo., Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company, and a “Qualified Person” within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical contents of this news release.

For a further discussion of the Company’s QA/QC and data verification procedures and processes, please see the technical report entitled, Technical Report on the Vent Copper Property, Alberni Mining Division, British Columbia, Canada, NTS Map 092F03W,” dated July 22, 2026, a copy of which may be obtained under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca.The Property is an exploration-stage mineral property with no current mineral resource or mineral reserve estimates.

About Northern Discovery Metals Inc.

Northern Discovery Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration and advancement of mineral properties in Canada. The Company is exploring for copper at its Vent Project on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Northern Discovery Metals intends to advance the Project through systematic exploration and evaluation of its mineral potential.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Jared Suchan

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Phone: (604) 294-3020

Email: info@northerndiscoverymetals.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as “expects”, “plans”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “projects”, “potential”, “scheduled”, “targeted”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “would” and similar expressions, or statements that certain events or conditions “will”, “may” or “could” occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expected timing, duration, scope and focus of the Stage 1 exploration program at the Property; the proposed geological mapping, prospecting and rock and soil sampling; the evaluation and follow-up of geochemical responses, magnetic and VLF-EM responses and other evidence encountered during the program; the integration of program results with existing geological, geochemical and geophysical information; the refinement of the Company’s geological model and ranking of priority areas; the potential identification of coherent geological and geochemical targets; the possible undertaking of focused induced-polarization or other ground geophysical work; the potential refinement and ranking of drill targets; and the Company’s plans to systematically explore, evaluate and advance the Property. 

Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs as of the date of this news release, including assumptions regarding the availability of personnel, contractors, equipment, supplies and financing on acceptable terms; the accuracy, reliability and completeness of historical and existing geological, geochemical and geophysical data; the ability to obtain and maintain all required permits, approvals and access arrangements; suitable weather, access and field conditions; the performance of Geomap and other contractors in accordance with applicable work plans; and the absence of material adverse changes in applicable laws, commodity prices, market conditions or the Company’s business and financial position. Although the Company considers these assumptions reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. 

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: delays, interruptions, changes in scope or cost overruns affecting the exploration program; adverse weather, access, terrain, wildfire or other field conditions; the inability to secure or maintain permits, approvals, land access, personnel, contractors, equipment, supplies or sufficient financing; contractor performance and operational risks; accidents, environmental incidents and other hazards inherent in mineral exploration; the possibility that sampling, mapping, prospecting or geophysical work will not verify or explain historical anomalies, identify mineralization or produce coherent targets; the risk that geochemical or geophysical anomalies are not indicative of economic mineralization; uncertainties inherent in geological interpretation, data verification and the estimation of exploration potential; the preliminary nature of exploration results and the possibility that results from one area are not representative of the Property as a whole; title, option agreement and property access risks; fluctuations in commodity prices and market conditions; changes in laws, regulations, permitting requirements or government policies; competition for capital, personnel and equipment; and the additional risks described in the Company’s continuous disclosure filings with applicable securities regulatory authorities. There can be no assurance that the exploration program will proceed as currently contemplated, be completed on the expected timeline or at all, or achieve the anticipated results. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by applicable securities laws. 

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the information contained herein.

New Boise facility will help prepare the next generation of technicians for careers supporting advanced semiconductor manufacturing

NEW YORK, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With demand for skilled semiconductor technicians continuing to outpace supply, ABM (NYSE: ABM), a leading provider of facility, operations, production maintenance, and infrastructure solutions, today announced the grand opening of the ABM Technical Training Center in Boise, Idaho, one of the nation’s fastest-growing semiconductor manufacturing hubs. The center draws on the specialized semiconductor expertise ABM added through its acquisition of WGNSTAR earlier this year, further expanding ABM’s technical training capabilities to support the industry’s growing workforce needs.

The Boise center extends ABM’s existing semiconductor training footprint in Austin, Texas, and is expected to have capacity for approximately 500 participants annually at launch. It features a comprehensive, industry-aligned training program that combines instructor-led classroom learning, hands-on technical labs, and virtual reality simulations covering the core systems that support semiconductor manufacturing.

Developed by ABM semiconductor subject matter experts and endorsed by SEMI, the global industry association serving the electronics design and manufacturing supply chain, the program provides participants with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in entry-level technical roles across semiconductor manufacturing environments. Graduates will also earn an industry-recognized Swagelok certification as part of the curriculum.

“The future of American semiconductor manufacturing depends not only on building more fabrication plants, but on developing the workforce to operate them,” said Ed Marcil, President of Manufacturing & Distribution at ABM. “Across the industry, demand for qualified and credentialed technicians continues to outpace the available workforce, creating one of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers today. Through ABM’s new Technical Training Center, we are helping create faster pathways into technical careers because the industry’s ability to grow depends on the people who keep these operations running.”

Governor Brad Little added, “Idaho is a national leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, and investments like ABM’s Technical Training Center ensure we are preparing Idahoans to fill the good-paying jobs that industry is creating. By bringing hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials to Boise, ABM is helping build the skilled workforce we need to support innovation, strengthen our economy, and keep Idaho at the forefront of America’s semiconductor future. I appreciate ABM’s investment in Idaho and its commitment to preparing the next generation of technicians.”

Designed to complement existing education and workforce initiatives, the employer-agnostic program prepares participants for technical careers supporting semiconductor manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and facilities operators. By providing industry-aligned training before participants enter semiconductor environments, the program helps strengthen workforce readiness and better prepare technicians to contribute on the job.

About ABM

ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world’s largest providers of integrated operations, production maintenance, facility, and infrastructure solutions. Through its manufacturing and distribution business, ABM helps many of the world’s leading manufacturers optimize production environments with specialized operations, maintenance, infrastructure, and workforce solutions.

ABM provides comprehensive support to the semiconductor industry, helping clients maintain critical manufacturing environments, improve operational performance, and develop the skilled workforce needed to support continued industry growth.

With more than 100,000 team members and over $8 billion in annual revenue, ABM serves clients across manufacturing and distribution, semiconductor, mission critical, commercial real estate, aviation, education, and other essential industries. ABM: Driving possibility, together.

For more information, visit www.abm.com.

Media contact:
Michael Valentino 
media@abm.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5e4ed491-5bd6-4744-aa50-81a26c04df51