Month: September 2026

CHICAGO, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance, Inc. (NASDAQ: REFI), a commercial mortgage real estate investment trust, announced that its board of directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.47 per share for the third quarter of 2026. The regular quarterly dividend, which equates to an annualized rate of $1.88 per common share, is payable on October 15, 2026, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 30, 2026.

About Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance, Inc.
Chicago Atlantic Real Estate Finance, Inc. (NASDAQ: REFI) is a market-leading commercial mortgage REIT utilizing significant real estate, credit and cannabis expertise to originate senior secured loans primarily to state-licensed cannabis operators in limited-license states in the United States. REFI is part of the Chicago Atlantic platform, which has offices in Chicago, Miami, New York, and London.

Contact: 
Tripp Sullivan
Lisa Kampf
SCR Partners
IR@REFI.reit

Program Exceeds Planned Meterage; JN26-003 Submitted for Rush Assay

Vancouver, BC, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aben Gold Corp. (TSX-V: ABM) (OTCID: ABNAF) (Frankfurt: ML1) (“Aben” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce the completion of the 2026 diamond drill program at its 100%-owned Justin Gold-Tungsten Project in southeastern Yukon Territory, approximately 25 kilometres from the past-producing Cantung Mine.
As of September 13, 2026, the Company has completed 1,390.9 metres of diamond drilling in eight holes over 36 operating days. The program exceeded the original plan of approximately 1,300 metres in six holes. A total of 1,464 samples have been collected and shipped to Bureau Veritas and Actlabs for analytical work.

Program Summary

Drilling tested both priority target areas: the POW Zone gold-tungsten system and the Lost Ace high-grade gold target.

Hole ID	Zone	Start	Complete	Final Depth (m)	Samples*
JN26-001	POW	Aug 8	Aug 13	265.30	341
JN26-002	POW	Aug 13	Aug 21	207.35	227
JN26-003	POW	Aug 21	Aug 29	250.05	217
JN26-004	POW	Aug 29	Sep 4	263.30	241
JN26-005	Lost Ace	Sep 4	Sep 6	72.00	71
JN26-006	Lost Ace	Sep 6	Sep 7	64.00	69
JN26-007	Lost Ace	Sep 7	Sep 9	71.00	80
JN26-008	POW	Sep 9	Sep 13	197.45	218
Total				1,390.9	1,464*

*Sample numbers include quality control samples (blanks, standards and duplicates).

Five holes were completed at the POW Zone and three holes at the Lost Ace Zone. Core cutting and sampling are continuing at site, with cutting of JN26-007 underway.

Assay Status

• JN26-001 (341 samples) was shipped August 26, 2026 and received by Bureau Veritas the same day.

• JN26-002 (227 samples) was shipped August 31, 2026 and received by Bureau Veritas the same day.

• JN26-003 (217 samples) were shipped September 9, 2026 and submitted to Kamloops Actlabs since they could accommodate a rush analysis.

Samples from JN26-004 through JN26-008 are being prepared for subsequent dispatches. Assay results will be released as they are received, reviewed, and interpreted.

Riley Trimble, President and CEO of Aben Gold, commented: “Completing 1,390 metres across eight holes, above our original 1,300-metre plan, is a strong finish to the 2026 season at Justin. We drilled both POW and Lost Ace, and sent the first two holes into the lab earlier in the program, and have now sent JN26-003 on a rush basis. Our focus turns to receiving assays and using this new dataset to plan the next phase of work.”

The 2026 program was designed to test continuity and depth of gold-tungsten mineralization at the POW Zone and high-grade, structurally-controlled gold mineralization at Lost Ace. As previously disclosed, massive sulphides and ultraviolet indication of scheelite (WO₃) were observed in POW Zone core during the program. Visual observations are not a substitute for assay results.

Image 1 – JN26-003 140.02-148.52m Ultraviolet Light

Click here to view image

Milosz Mielniczuk, VP Exploration and Qualified Person of Aben Gold, commented: “We are thrilled to have completed the 2026 program safely and efficiently. I would like to extend a big thank you to the contractors who made this possible: Empire Drilling, Summit Air, Matrix, and Axiom. It was a pleasure working alongside you all, and we look forward to the 2027 season.”

Image 2 – Justin Camp August 2026
Click here to view image

Image 3 – Project Location and Target Zones

Click here to view image

About the Justin Gold-Tungsten Project

The Justin Project covers approximately 7,400 hectares and is 100% owned by Aben Gold. It is in the Tombstone Gold-Tungsten Belt and broader Tintina Gold Province of southeastern Yukon, adjacent to Seabridge Gold’s 3 Aces Project.

Historical drilling at the POW Zone includes 1.25 g/t Au over 60.0 metres, including 2.47 g/t Au over 21.0 metres, in JN11-009, and 2.52 g/t Au with 29.53 g/t Ag over 12.0 metres in JN11-010, with subsequent tungsten re-assays returning 0.25% WO₃ over the same 12.0 metre interval in JN11-010. See News Releases: October 16, 2014 and November 17, 2011.

Lost Ace is a separate high-grade gold target where historical trench sampling returned 20.8 g/t Au over 4.4 metres and 88.2 g/t Au over 1.0 metre. See News Release: January 14, 2019.

Qualified Person:

Milosz Mielniczuk, B.Sc. P.Geo., V.P. of Exploration for Aben Gold, has reviewed and approved the technical aspects of this news release and is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Aben Gold:

The Company’s goal is to increase shareholder value through new discoveries and developing exploration projects in geopolitically favourable jurisdictions.

X
LinkedIn

For further information on Aben Gold Corp. (TSX-V: ABM), visit our Company’s website at www.abengold.com.

ABEN GOLD CORP.

“Riley Trimble”
______________________
Riley Trimble
President & CEO

For further information contact:
Aben Gold Corp.
Riley Trimble, President & CEO
Telephone: 604-639-3852
Facsimile: 604-687-3119
Email: info@abengold.com

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

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements”. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that management of the Company expects, are forward-looking statements.  Although management believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management’s beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements, include market prices, exploration and development successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Please see the public filings of the Company at www.sedarplus.ca for further information.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xali Gold Corp. (TSXV:XGC) (“Xali Gold” or “the Company”) provides an update on its projects in the El Oro Mining District of Mexico as the Company focuses on advancing the Pico Machay Gold Project in Peru.

The Company maintains certain rights to the El Oro property, where 6.4 million (“M”) ounces (“ozs”) of gold and 74M ozs of silver was mined historically (Ref. Mexico Geological Service Bulletin Nr. 37, Mining of the El Oro and Tlalpujahua Districts, T. Flores in 1920). Previously, diamond drilling by the Company identified high-grade gold and silver mineralization located below historic mine workings and the Company entered into two agreements with third parties which offer potential to bring in cash flow through Net Smelter Returns (“NSR”) .

While the Company believes that there is excellent potential for discoveries and revenues from its various El Oro projects, delays experienced to date have reduced their strategic priority relative to the recently acquired Pico Machay Gold Project in Peru. The Company has therefore recently entered into discussions regarding the potential sale of its El Oro hard-rock interests to companies with operations in Mexico. Xali Gold’s subsidiary, Minera CCM S.A. de C.V., has a tax loss carry forward of approximately US$3,044,560 (52,187,871.00 pesos), which could potentially be useful to operational entities, in addition to the mineral exploration potential. 

Alternatively, the Company is also considering a significant reduction to the size of its El Oro property position and the associated mineral rights fees.

El Oro Hard Rock Project

The Company has recently been advised that an additional two claims, representing hard-rock mineral rights, have been cancelled by the Mexican Mines Bureau (“MMB”) without the legally required 60-day notice being provided directly to the Company. These are in addition to the nine claim cancellations the Company reported in July 29, 2025 and August 21, 2025. Eight of those nine claims had also been cancelled without notice being provided directly to the Company. See Figure 1 below.

Mexican legal counsel has recently advised the Company that it may challenge the cancellations through a judicial review procedure (“Amparo”) which has been conducted successfully by other mining and exploration companies in Mexico. Counsel has also advised that, if the affected concessions are reinstated, concession fees relating to the period during which the concessions were declared cancelled may also be challenged and not owed. Mexico has a five-year statute of limitations on all taxes, including mineral rights fees.

Of the nine claims, two were extensive in size, peripheral to known mineralization including drill targets, and comprised 76.28% of the fees owing for the total El Oro Project in 2025. The Company considers these two cancellations acceptable and does not intend to challenge them. The Company also understands that the areas covered by the cancelled claims are not currently available for acquisition by another party.

Remedioambiente Agreement on Historic Workings Area

As previously announced (July 22, 2024, August 28, 2024 and September 16, 2025), Remedioambiente S.A. de C.V. (“Remedioambiente”) has the right to recover gold and silver from historic mine workings above the 2,400-metre-above-sea-level elevation (“masl”) on five of the El Oro concessions (see Figure 1 below). In return, Xali Gold is entitled to receive a 3% NSR. Xali Gold retains 100% of the exploration and mineral rights below the 2,400-metre elevation, which is where the Company has developed drill targets for new untouched mineral bodies similar to those previously mined.

Under the agreement, Remedioambiente is also responsible for maintaining the applicable mineral rights in good standing by completing required filings and paying past-due and future mineral rights fees on the five concessions subject to the agreement. Three of these five concessions are among the eleven cancelled claims, and Remedioambiente.

Under the original arrangements, Remedioambiente was also to receive Xali Gold shares in consideration for certain past fees paid and, subject to certain conditions, rights to appoint directors to the Company. Earlier this year, the TSXV did not approve the issuance to Remedioambiente of such share or board appointment rights.

Figure 1: El Oro Claim Map

Remediambiente has recently advised the Company that they plan to undertake significant underground rehabilitation work at the northern end of the San Rafael vein. If completed, this work could provide underground access to Xali Gold for drilling the higher-grade gold and silver drill targets, which are underneath this end of the historic mine workings.

El Oro Tailings Project

Xali Gold also provides an update regarding the Mexican Mine Tailings Reprocessing Project at El Oro (the “El Oro Tailings Project”). As announced on November 13, 2025, Xali Gold and Kappes, Cassiday & Associates (“KCA”) agreed to finalize a definitive agreement consistent with the binding letter of intent announced on April 15, 2024. The agreement provided for KCA to acquire Xali Gold’s Mexican subsidiary, Minera CCM Jales SA de CV, allowing KCA to manage legal matters associated with the Tailings Project, including negotiations with the Municipality of El Oro and other local government matters.

The Company had previously been advised that the current President of El Oro was delaying ratification of the long-standing reprocessing agreement, originally entered into in 2013, while KCA continued to manage the negotiations.

The Company has recently become aware that a portion of the tailings may have been removed from the site by another party claiming to be Minera CCM. The company is working with KCA and its advisors to determine what occurred, including the quantity of material involved, the authority under which it may have been removed and any potential implications for the Tailings Project and the Company’s interests.

The Company’s review is ongoing, and it is not currently in a position to confirm the quantity or characteristics of any material that may have been removed or the effect, if any, on the Tailings Project. Accordingly, the Company is also not currently able to determine whether, or to what extent, the quantity of tailings remaining at the site differs from the quantity reflected in the historical estimate.

Xali Gold will provide a further update when sufficient information has been obtained.

About Xali Gold

Xali Gold is a gold and silver exploration company focused on advancing opportunities in the Americas. The Company is focused on the exploration and development of Pico Machay, an advanced exploration-stage gold project in Peru with a near-term production goal. 

The Company’s approach to community engagement and responsible development is guided by strong governance principles and Board oversight that support long-term stakeholder relationships.

Joanne C. Freeze, P.Geo. is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the contents of this release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

On behalf of the Board of Xali Gold Corp.

“Joanne Freeze” P.Geo.
President, CEO and Director

For further information please contact:
Joanne Freeze, President & CEO
Tel: + 1 (604) 512-3359
info@xaligold.com

Forward-looking Disclaimer

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, plans, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. All statements that are not statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements in this news release specifically include statements regarding the potential sale of the Company’s El Oro hard-rock interests or reduction of its El Oro property position and associated mineral rights fees; potential challenges to and reinstatement of cancelled mineral concessions and related mineral rights fees; Remedioambiente’s proposed legal and underground rehabilitation activities; the potential receipt of revenues or royalties from third-party agreements; and the Company’s ongoing review of matters relating to the El Oro Tailings Project and their potential implications for the Company’s interests.

Known risk factors and assumptions include risks associated with exploration and project development; accessing further funding and related dilution: continuing its projected growth, or being fully able to implement its business strategies; title matters; government regulation; obtaining and renewing necessary consents, authorizations, licenses and permits; environmental liability and insurance; reliance on key personnel; local community opposition; currency fluctuations; labour disputes; competition; variations in market conditions, and the volatility of our common share price and volume; future sales of shares by existing shareholders; and other risk factors described in Xali Gold’s MD&A and other filings with Canadian securities regulators, which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Xali Gold expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Grey Matters Health Inc. (the “Company” or “Grey Matters”) (CSE: GREY) (FRANKFURT: AGW0) (OTC: AGNPF), a Canadian healthcare company, is pleased to announce an increase and change to its non-brokered private placement offering (the “Offering”) previously announced on August 20, 2026, with the first closing having occurred on September 9, 2026. The Offering was originally announced to consist of gross proceeds from the sale of equity units (an “Equity Unit”) expected to be CAD $500,000 and unsecured convertible debenture units (a “Debenture Unit”) with gross proceeds expected to be CAD $300,000, for an aggregate total of CAD $800,000 from the Offering. The Company has increased the total aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering to CAD $1.1 million with an additional CAD $250,000 of Equity Units and $250,000 of Debenture Units expected to be sold in the second tranche (the “Second Tranche”).

On September 10, the Company announced the closing of the first tranche for gross proceeds totalling CAD $600,000, consisting of CAD $285,000 from the sale of 712,500 Equity Units and CAD $315,000 from the sale of Debenture Units. The private placement of Equity Units and Debenture Units is collectively referred to as the offering (the “Offering”). Following the expected closing of the Second Tranche, the aggregate gross proceeds of CAD $1.1 million from the Offering would consist of CAD $535,000 from Equity Units and CAD $565,000 from Debenture Units.

Each Equity Unit, at an issue price of CAD $0.40, consists of one Class A common share in the capital of the Company (a “Common Share“) and one Common Share purchase warrant (a “Warrant“). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one Common Share (a “Warrant Share“) at an exercise price of CAD $0.60 (the “Exercise Price“) per Warrant Share for a period of 36 months from the issuance date (the “Expiry Date“).

Each Debenture Unit consists of one debenture (a “Convertible Debenture”) in the principal amount of CAD $1,000 and 2,198 common share purchase warrants (a “Debenture Warrant”). The Convertible Debentures carry interest at a rate of 10% per annum from the closing date, payable semi-annually in arrears until the maturity date, which will be 24 months from the closing date of the Convertible Debentures or the conversion date of the Debentures. The outstanding principal and interest can be converted, at the option of the Convertible Debenture holder, into Common Share at a fixed price of CAD $0.455 per Common Share on or before the maturity date of the Convertible Debenture. The Company may from time to time, in its sole discretion, prepay all or a part of the principal amount and accrued interest without penalty. Each Debenture Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one Common Share (a “Debenture Warrant Share”) at an exercise price of CAD $0.55 per Debenture Warrant Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance.

The Company may pay cash finder’s fees and finders warrants to eligible finders for investors introduced to the Company by the eligible finder in regards to the Second Tranche of the Offering.

The Company will use the proceeds of the Offering to advance its Alzheimer’s Disease program towards the opening of U.S. brain-specific neuroimaging clinic, general and administrative expenses, and for working capital purposes.

The Company expects to close the second and final tranche of the Offering on or before September 21, 2026.

The securities issued and issuable, described in this and the previous news releases from August 20, 2026 and September 10, 2026, will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus a day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities legislation.

The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, “U.S. persons” (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration.

For more information please contact:

Christopher J. Moreau
CEO
Grey Matters Health Inc.
604.398.4175 Ext 701

cjmoreau@greymatters-health.com
info@greymatters-health.com
www.greymatters-health.com

About Grey Matters  

Grey Matters is a Canadian healthcare company focused on the provision of brain dedicated PET scanning services through a planned network of new neuroimaging clinics in the U.S. for the early-stage detection of Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of neurodegenerative diseases, including frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s, and Lewy body dementia, and will additionally offer other select neuro-oncology imaging applications too.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER STATEMENT: This news release contains forward-looking statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “expects” and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include the failure to satisfy the conditions of the relevant securities exchange(s) and other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable law.

Initial Project Description accepted by British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office and Impact Assessment Agency of Canada

Vancouver, British Columbia, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surge Copper Corp. (TSXV: SURG) (OTCQB: SRGXF) (Frankfurt: G6D2) (“Surge” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Initial Project Description (“IPD”) for its 100%-owned Berg Copper Project (“Berg” or the “Project”), located in central British Columbia, has been accepted by the British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (“EAO”) and the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (“IAAC”).

The Company submitted the IPD on September 9, 2026. Its acceptance formally commences the Early Engagement phase of the provincial environmental assessment process and the Planning phase of the federal impact assessment process.

Leif Nilsson, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Acceptance of the IPD represents an important milestone for Berg and formally moves the Project into the environmental assessment process. A significant amount of technical, environmental, and engagement work has been undertaken to prepare for this stage, and I would like to acknowledge the contributions of Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs, staff at the Office of the Wet’suwet’en, the elected Chiefs and Councils of Witset First Nation, Wet’suwet’en First Nation, Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band, Skin Tyee First Nation, and Cheslatta Carrier Nation, our government counterparts, and the many members of the Surge team and our consultants who have contributed to that work. Berg is entering environmental assessment from a strong technical foundation following completion of the PFS earlier this year, while substantial environmental baseline, engineering, and engagement programs continue. We look forward to working collaboratively with First Nations, local communities, regulators, and other participants as the Project progresses through this next stage.”

Jennifer Anthony, VP Environment & Regulatory Affairs, commented: “Acceptance of the IPD within a short time period of submission reflects the substantial engagement and early collaboration undertaken with First Nations, regulators, and our technical teams ahead of entering the assessment process, and federal and provincial governments putting into practice their commitment to efficient processes. The next stages will provide a structured forum to continue that work, identify key issues, and further refine the studies and information required to support assessment of the Project.”

Chief Casbit as supported by the Office of the Wet’suwet’en indicated that “Thin House of the Gilseyhu Clan welcome the opportunity to collaborate and participate meaningfully in the assessment of the Berg Copper Project and to ensure Wet’suwet’en knowledge, values, and governance are reflected in the process.”

Surge has been working with Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs, supported by the Office of the Wet’suwet’en (“OW”), as well as the elected Chiefs and Councils of Witset First Nation, Wet’suwet’en First Nation, Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band, Skin Tyee First Nation, and Cheslatta Carrier Nation in preparation for the environmental assessment process. In parallel with the provincial and federal processes, OW is supporting participating Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs in the development of a First Nation-led assessment process intended to incorporate Wet’suwet’en hereditary governance, values, and decision-making into the assessment of the Project. Surge also continues to advance discussions regarding capacity and resourcing across all communities to support meaningful First Nations participation throughout the assessment process.

During the Early Engagement and Planning phases, the EAO and IAAC will engage with First Nations, government agencies, local communities, the public and other participants to identify key issues and information requirements for subsequent stages of assessment. Surge will continue its environmental baseline programs and feasibility-level technical work in parallel with the assessment process, including ongoing evaluation of tailings and waste management alternatives.

The Company also intends to support a coordinated provincial and federal assessment process, including through the potential substitution of the federal impact assessment process to British Columbia, subject to the applicable regulatory processes and government decisions.

About the Berg Copper Project

Berg is a large-scale copper-molybdenum-silver-gold development project located in central British Columbia. In June 2026, Surge completed a Pre-Feasibility Study for the Project outlining a 120,000 tonne-per-day conventional open-pit mining and processing operation with an approximately 28-year mine life, an after-tax NPV8% of C$4.6 billion and an after-tax internal rate of return of 24%.

Full results of the Pre-Feasibility Study, including economic assumptions, sensitivities, Mineral Reserve estimates and other technical information, are available in the Company’s June 15, 2026 news release and the related technical report filed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ and available on the Company’s website.

Qualified Persons

Dr. Shane Ebert, P.Geo., is the Qualified Person for the Berg Copper Project and the Ootsa Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. Dr. Ebert is an Officer and a Director of Surge and is not independent of the Company.

About Surge Copper Corp.

Surge Copper Corp. is a Canadian resource company advancing one of British Columbia’s emerging copper districts. The Company’s 100%-owned Berg Copper Project hosts a large-scale copper-molybdenum-silver-gold deposit in central British Columbia supported by a Pre-Feasibility Study and Mineral Reserve estimate that define a development pathway for a long-life copper project with significant molybdenum, silver, and gold by-product production.

In addition to the Berg deposit, Surge controls a large, contiguous mineral claim package that includes multiple advanced porphyry deposits, including the Ox and Seel deposits adjacent to the past-producing Huckleberry Mine. Collectively, the Company’s assets position Surge as a potential long-term contributor to Canada’s critical minerals strategy through the responsible development of copper, molybdenum, and associated metals.

Surge is committed to advancing its projects through early engagement and collaboration with First Nations and local communities, with a focus on transparent communication, relationship building, and respectful, constructive dialogue.

For more information, visit www.surgecopper.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors
“Leif Nilsson”
Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Riley Trimble, Corporate Communications & Development
Telephone: +1 604 639 3852
Email: info@surgecopper.com
X: @SurgeCopper
LinkedIn: Surge Copper Corp
https://www.surgecopper.com

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

This News Release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “expects”, “plans”, or “anticipates” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding the anticipated progression of the Project through the environmental assessment process, potential coordination and substitution of the provincial and federal processes, continued engagement with First Nations and other participants, and the Company’s planned environmental, technical, and engineering activities. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and risks may include, among others, actual results of the Company’s exploration activities being different than those expected by management, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain required government or other regulatory approvals, the ability to obtain adequate financing to conduct its planned exploration programs, inability to procure labour, equipment, and supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis, equipment breakdown, and bad weather. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect the Company’s current judgment regarding the direction of its business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions, or other future performance suggestions herein. Except as required by applicable law, the Company does not intend to update any forward-looking statements to conform these statements to actual results.

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fate Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: FATE), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to bringing a transformative pipeline of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cellular immunotherapies to patients with cancer and autoimmune disease, today announced that four abstracts from its off-the-shelf CAR T-cell programs have been selected for presentation at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence 2026, being held November 6-11 in Orlando, Florida.

Presentations span clinical, translational, and patient-centered research across the Company’s autoimmune focused, off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived CAR T-cell pipeline, including FT819 and FT839. Two FT819 presentations will feature updated clinical data, including administration of FT819 without the use of conditioning chemotherapy, the overview of a unique biomarker association with quality-of-life improvement, and continued progress on outpatient administration to expand community-based access, including in underserved regions. A third presentation details a patient perspective focus group study conducted in collaboration with the Lupus Foundation of America, which explores patient preferences for off-the-shelf, allogeneic CAR T-cell therapy in lupus. The final presentation will provide an update on preclinical studies and the design and progress of the COMPLETE Trial, a recently cleared Phase 1/2 clinical trial of FT839, the company’s off-the-shelf, dual-CAR T-cell product candidate co-targeting CD19 and CD38 for the comprehensive elimination of multicellular drivers of autoimmune diseases, including in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

“The breadth of clinical progress we have made as a team and are sharing at the ACR Convergence reflects both the maturation of our off-the-shelf CAR T-cell portfolio in autoimmune disease and our commitment to making cell therapy accessible to all patients in need of such transformative therapy,” said Bob Valamehr, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fate Therapeutics. “We continue to observe an encouraging and class-leading safety and tolerability profile for FT819, along with meaningful clinical outcomes that are driving enrollment and clinician engagement as well as enabling CAR T-cell administration in the outpatient and community setting with same-day discharge, a unique and meaningful step in extending access beyond specialized treatment centers. Through our continued partnership with the Lupus Foundation of America to keep the patient voice at the center of our work, a patient perspective presentation reinforces our conviction that cell therapy delivered with less intensive or no conditioning chemotherapy, in an off the shelf setting, is preferred and can simplify the CAR T-cell treatment paradigm to improve quality of life for people living with such challenging disease.”

Details of the presentations are as follows:

Title: FT839: An Off-the-Shelf, Dual CAR T-Cell Therapy for the Comprehensive Elimination of Multicellular Drivers of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: Poster Session A, Rheumatoid Arthritis – Treatment

Date and Time: Sunday, November 8, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET

Abstract #: 0453

Title: Off-the-Shelf CD19 CAR T-cell Therapy Demonstrates Feasibility of Outpatient Administration, Expanding Access to Community-Based Care

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: Poster Session B, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – Treatment

Date and Time: Monday, November 9, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET

Abstract #: 1234

Title: Off-the-Shelf Anti-CD19 CAR T-cell Therapy Efficacy Reveals Biomarker Candidates for Fatigue in SLE

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: Poster Session B, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – Etiology & Pathogenesis

Date and Time: Monday, November 9, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET

Abstract #: 1024

Title: Patient Perspectives on Allogeneic CAR T Cell Therapy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Findings from a Focus Group Study (Part 3)

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: Poster Session B, Patient Outcomes, Preferences, & Attitudes

Date and Time: Monday, November 9, 2026, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET

Abstract #: 1539

The accepted abstracts can be accessed on the ACR Convergence 2026 website. Presentation materials will be available following the event on the Fate website, located here: Fate Publications & Presentations.

About FT819

FT819 is an off-the-shelf CD19-targeting chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell product candidate engineered to improve safety and efficacy. Analogous to master cell banks used to mass produce biopharmaceutical drug products such as monoclonal antibodies, a precisely engineered clonal master induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) bank serves as the starting cell source to manufacture FT819, overcoming numerous limitations associated with patient- and donor-sourced CAR T-cell therapies. FT819 is well-defined and uniform in composition, produced at a low cost of goods, and can be stored in inventory for off-the-shelf, on-demand availability to enable access for a broad patient population. This research was additionally made possible by funding from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), a state agency in California that supports research in regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and clinical trials. (Grant number: CLIN2-16303)

About FT839

FT839 is the Company’s first multi-antigen, dual-CAR T-cell product candidate, designed to express two unique CARs—a first CAR targeting the B-cell lineage marker CD19 and a second CAR targeting CD38—to enable the comprehensive elimination of multiple cellular drivers of autoimmune disease. FT839 is armed with the Company’s novel Sword & Shield™ technology, which is designed to eliminate the need for conditioning chemotherapy. Following FDA clearance of its Investigational New Drug (IND) application, FT839 is advancing into a Phase 1/2 basket trial to evaluate FT839 across autoimmune indications, including rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, systemic sclerosis (SSc), ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), and idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM).

About Fate Therapeutics, Inc.

Fate Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to bringing a pipeline of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cellular immunotherapies to patients. Using its proprietary iPSC product platform, the Company has established a leadership position in creating multiplexed-engineered iPSC lines and in the manufacture and clinical development of off-the-shelf, iPSC-derived cell products. The Company’s pipeline includes iPSC-derived T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell product candidates, which are selectively designed, incorporate novel synthetic controls of cell function, and are intended to deliver multiple therapeutic mechanisms to patients. Fate Therapeutics is headquartered in San Diego, CA. For more information, please visit www.fatetherapeutics.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 including statements regarding the Company’s product candidates, clinical studies and preclinical research and development programs, the Company’s progress, plans and timelines for the clinical investigation of its product candidates, including the initiation and continuation of enrollment in the Company’s clinical trials, the initiation of additional clinical trials, including in new indications, and additional dose cohorts in ongoing clinical trials of the Company’s product candidates, the availability of data from the Company’s clinical trials and the Company’s plans to provide updates on its clinical trials, the therapeutic and market potential of the Company’s research and development programs and product candidates, the Company’s clinical and product development strategy, and the Company’s progress and plans relating to, and the anticipated timing and outcome of, interactions with the FDA and other regulatory authorities, including its expectations relating to alignment with regulatory authorities on potential registrational pathways for FT819. These and any other forward-looking statements in this release are based on management’s current expectations of future events and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those set forth in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk that the Company’s research and development programs and product candidates, including those product candidates in clinical investigation, may not demonstrate the requisite safety, efficacy, or other attributes to warrant further development or to achieve regulatory approval, the risk that results observed in prior studies of the Company’s product candidates, including preclinical studies and clinical trials, will not be observed in ongoing or future studies involving these product candidates, the risk of a delay or difficulties in the manufacturing of the Company’s product candidates or in the initiation and conduct of, or enrollment of patients in, any clinical trials, the risk that the Company may cease or delay preclinical or clinical development of any of its product candidates for a variety of reasons (including requirements that may be imposed by regulatory authorities on the initiation or conduct of clinical trials, changes in the therapeutic, regulatory, or competitive landscape for which the Company’s product candidates are being developed, the amount and type of data to be generated or otherwise to support regulatory approval, difficulties or delays in patient enrollment and continuation in the Company’s ongoing and planned clinical trials, difficulties in manufacturing or supplying the Company’s product candidates for clinical testing, failure to demonstrate that a product candidate has the requisite safety, efficacy, or other attributes to warrant further development, and any adverse events or other negative results that may be observed during preclinical or clinical development), the risk that its product candidates may not produce therapeutic benefits or may cause other unanticipated adverse effects, and risks relating to regulatory interactions and the outcome of such interactions. For a discussion of other risks and uncertainties, and other important factors, any of which could cause the Company’s actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see the risks and uncertainties detailed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to the Company’s most recently filed periodic report, and from time to time in the Company’s press releases and other investor communications. Fate Therapeutics is providing the information in this release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:

Ryan Douglas
Fate Therapeutics, Inc.
IR@fatetherapeutics.com

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — K2 Gold Corporation (“K2” or the “Company”) (TSX-V: KTO | OTCQX: KTGDF | FSE: 23K) today announced initial gold-solubility results from the Dragonfly Zone at its 100%-owned Mojave Project in Inyo County, California. A total of 211 mineralized samples from seven holes drilled in 2026 return a soluble-gold-to-fire-assay-gold ratio (“AuCN/AuFA ratio”) of 97.1% based on the ratio of summed CN-soluble and fire-assay gold grades. Initial soluble gold recoveries combined with field observations confirm the presence of readily leachable gold in an oxide environment to depths of up to 180 meters below surface – the limit of drilling to date. Aggregate ratios for the individual holes ranged from 93.4% to 99.9%.

Furthermore, K2 conducted soluble gold check assays in 2020 on 206 paired samples from nine holes covering Dragonfly and Newmont and these data returned an aggregate AuCN/AuFA ratio of 95.0%. Collectively, the 2026 and 2020 results are encouraging and consistent with the extensive visual oxidation documented in K2’s drilling at Dragonfly and Newmont.

Highlights

• Strong initial gold solubility: 211 mineralized samples from seven 2026 Dragonfly holes returned a 97.1% aggregate AuCN/AuFA ratio, with individual-hole aggregate ratios ranging from 93.4% to 99.9%.
• K2’s 2020 results support the 2026 data: 206 samples from 9 holes drilled at Dragonfly and Newmont in 2020 return a 95.0% aggregate AuCN/AuFA ratio.
• Iron oxide rich sedimentary rocks have been documented throughout K2’s drilling at both Dragonfly and Newmont historically and through the current drilling program with visible oxidation within the gold-bearing structures tested to date.
• Previously reported intervals demonstrate high initial gold solubility ratios: 3.05m of 17.55 g/t Au in DF26-024 returned a 97.0% AuCN/AuFA ratio, and 18.29m of 3.77 g/t Au in DF26-018 returned a 99.4% AuCN/AuFA ratio.
• Drilling completed by previous operators indicate oxidation to depths of at least 237m depth, and preliminary “cyanide shake” tests on the mineralization by BHP indicated recoveries up to 91% on material >0.5 g/t Au (see Great Bear Resources news release dated Oct. 30, 2013, here).
• K2 is planning to conduct preliminary representative bottle-roll metallurgical testing to evaluate gold extraction, extraction over time and reagent consumption under controlled laboratory conditions.

“The results provide an encouraging first indication that a high proportion of the gold in the Dragonfly samples tested is readily soluble,” stated Anthony Margarit, President and CEO of K2 Gold. “This is consistent with the widespread deep oxidation profile we have visually observed in drilling at Dragonfly and Newmont. The next step is a more comprehensive bottle-roll program designed to evaluate gold extraction using representative mineralized material.”

Oxide Mineralization Across Dragonfly and Newmont

K2’s geological logging has documented deep oxidized mineralization profiles in all drilling completed by the Company to date at Dragonfly and Newmont. At Dragonfly, visual oxidation has been observed throughout the gold-bearing structures tested in the 2020 and 2026 programs. At Newmont, K2’s 2020 drilling intersected oxidized gold mineralization in pervasive iron oxide rich environments, including 41.15 m grading 1.69 g/t Au from 44.20 m in hole NM20-011.

Historical operators, including Newmont Exploration and BHP Minerals, also completed limited drilling in the broader project area and their data report well oxidized sedimentary rock across both targets. K2 is continuing to review available historical drill information alongside its own geological observations. The physical evidence of oxidation, very low sulphur geochemistry, and the high AuCN/AuFA ratios provide complementary indications that this preliminary test work conducted on Dragonfly and Newmont mineralization has responded quite favorably and future, more extensive metallurgical test work may respond well to conventional leach testing methods. Metallurgical testing is required before conclusions can be made regarding processing performance or potential recovery.

Initial Dragonfly Cyanide Soluble Gold Results – 2026

ALS Laboratories has analyzed 2026 samples from the first seven drill holes in this year’s program that returned more than 0.100 g/t Au by initial fire assay using method Au-AA13. K2 compared each cyanide-soluble gold result with the corresponding fire-assay result and calculated the AuCN/AuFA ratio. Because the sample set includes only samples above the stated gold threshold, the results should not be interpreted as representative of all drilled material.

Table 1: Hole-by-hole aggregate AuCN/AuFA ratio, as well as mean and median individual ratios (equal-weight).

Drill hole	Paired samples	Aggregate AuCN/AuFA*		Mean individual ratio		Median individual ratio
DF26-018	25	99.2	%	98.2	%	97.9	%
DF26-019	19	93.4	%	93.5	%	93.2	%
DF26-020	38	96.4	%	91.0	%	95.8	%
DF26-021	27	96.7	%	91.9	%	94.2	%
DF26-022	30	95.1	%	94.0	%	95.3	%
DF26-023	36	99.9	%	90.8	%	98.6	%
DF26-024	36	96.2	%	84.1	%	95.1	%
2026 Overall	211	97.1	%	91.4	%	95.9	%

211 unique samples from DF26-018 through DF26-024, each representing a five-foot reverse circulation drill interval equivalent to approximately 1.52m were analysed and compared. The aggregate ratio is calculated as 100 × the sum of soluble-gold results divided by the sum of fire-assay results. Each sample represents an approximately 1.52 m drill interval. The arithmetic mean gives each individual sample ratio equal weight, while the median represents the middle sample ratio. These analytical ratios provide a preliminary indication of the potential amenability of the tested mineralization to cyanide leaching, including potential heap-leach processing.

2020 K2 Gold Results

The 2020 dataset comprises select coarse-reject splits originally analyzed by MSA Laboratories that were submitted to Bureau Veritas Laboratories for check fire-assay and cyanide-soluble gold analysis following the 2020 drill program. Across 206 samples with check fire-assay gold greater than 0.100 g/t Au, the combined ratio of summed CN to summed check-FA grades is 95.0%, with a mean individual ratio of 90.9% and a median of 94.2%. Dragonfly and Newmont separately return ratios of summed grades of 95.0% and 94.9%, respectively.

Table 2: 2020 drill hole-by-hole aggregate AuCN/AuFA ratio, as well as mean and median individual ratios (equal-weight).

Drill Hole	Paired samples	Aggregate AuCN/AuFA		Mean individual ratio		Median individual ratio
DF20-001	20	96.9	%	99.8	%	98.1	%
DF20-002	43	95.7	%	88.0	%	93.2	%
DF20-003	32	95.2	%	86.0	%	91.8	%
DF20-004	26	93.1	%	91.8	%	92.0	%
DF20-006	23	96.7	%	89.4	%	92.5	%
Dragonfly Subtotal	144	95.0	%	90.1	%	93.0	%
NM20-010	16	96.8	%	93.6	%	95.1	%
NM20-011	28	91.9	%	93.9	%	96.6	%
NM20-016	11	98.0	%	87.9	%	94.3	%
NM20-017	7	102.4	%	93.0	%	105.3	%
Newmont Subtotal	62	94.9	%	92.7	%	95.8	%
2020 overall	206	95.0	%	90.9	%	94.2	%

The ratios above compare Bureau Veritas soluble-gold results with Bureau Veritas check fire assays; they do not use the original MSA Laboratories assays reported for the 2020 drill intercepts. Because these were selected check-assay samples, they should not be interpreted as representative of all material drilled in 2020.

Next Steps and Drilling Update

K2 is planning a more comprehensive bottle-roll program with a qualified metallurgical laboratory. Representative composites are expected to be selected across a range of gold grades, rock types, oxidation intensities and locations within the Dragonfly mineralized structures. The program is expected to evaluate gold extraction over time, cyanide and lime consumption and the effect of particle size, supported by head and residue assays. The final scope and timing remain subject to sample availability and laboratory consultation. Bottle-roll results will help guide any subsequent metallurgical work but will not, on their own, establish commercial-scale recovery.

K2 has also completed eight holes at the Newmont target, approximately 2 km south of Dragonfly along the greater than 6.5 km long Eastside Gold Trend. The Company will continue to release results upon receipt and interpretation throughout the ongoing, fully permitted, drilling program.

Qualified Person (“QP”) and QA/QC

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements set out in NI 43-101 and reviewed and approved by Eric Buitenhuis, M.Sc., P.Geo., K2’s QP and Vice President of Exploration.

The analytical work for the 2026 drilling program was performed by ALS Laboratories (“ALS”) an internationally recognized and accredited analytical services provider. All samples were submitted to ALS’s Reno, Nevada facility, where they were prepared using procedure PREP-31Y (dry, crush entire sample to 2mm, rotary split and pulverize 250g to better than 85% passing 75 microns). Samples were then shipped to the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver, BC, Canada, where pulp samples were analysed for gold by method Au-ICP21, a 30-gram Fire Assay fusion with an ICP-AES finish. Samples returning >10 g/t Au by Fire Assay were subsequently analysed with method Au-GRA21, a 30-gram fire assay with a gravimetric finish. A 0.25g pulp was analysed by method ME-MS61, a 4-acid digestion and ICP-MS finish for 48 elements. Samples with fire-assay gold greater than 0.100 g/t were selected for additional cyanide-soluble gold analysis by Au-AA13, a 30g cyanide leach with an atomic absorption spectroscopy (“AAS”) finish.

Samples from the 2020 Dragonfly and Newmont drilling were initially prepared and analysed by MSA Laboratories. Selected splits of retained coarse-reject material were subsequently submitted to Bureau Veritas (“BV”) for preparation, check fire-assay and cyanide-soluble gold analysis. Check assay samples were riffle split by method SPTRF and pulverized to 85% passing 200 mesh by method PUL85, then analysed for gold by method FA430, a 30-gram Fire Assay fusion with an ICP-AAS finish. Samples returning >10 g/t Au by Fire Assay were subsequently analyzed with method FA530, a 30-gram fire assay with a gravimetric finish. The BV cyanide-soluble analyses used method CN401, a 15g, 30mL cyanide leach with an AAS finish. The 2020 AuCN/AuFA ratios reported in this release compare BV cyanide-soluble gold with the corresponding BV check fire-assay results, rather than the original MSA assays.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures include inserting coarse blanks and certified assay standards into the sample string at a rate of approximately 1/10 (10%). K2 personnel placed samples in sealed bags and shipped them to ALS.

About K2 Gold Corporation

K2 is a gold focused exploration company primarily operating in the SW USA and Yukon territory of Canada. The company is led by an experienced team with a track record of success including Great Bear, Great Bear Royalties, Kaminak and Northern Empire. The company is well financed with a treasury of over $27M.

K2 holds:

The Mojave Project is a +6000-hectare oxide gold project with base metal targets located in Inyo County, California. Multiple previously recognized surface gold targets have been successfully drilled in the past, most notably by Newmont and BHP. Since acquiring the property, K2 has completed geochemical and geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, LiDAR, a WorldView 3 alteration survey, and successfully completed a 17-hole RC drill program focused on the Dragonfly and Newmont Zones. Highlights from K2’s drilling program include 6.68 g/t Au over 45.72m from surface at the Dragonfly Zone, and 1.69 g/t Au over 41.15m from 44.20m depth at the Newmont Zone. A follow-up phase of drilling at Mojave is currently underway and will continue for the remainder of 2026. See Mojave 43-101 report here.

The Si2 Project is a low-sulphidation epithermal gold system located in Nevada within the Walker Lane Trend. Historical shallow drilling tested only the uppermost levels of the system and returned anomalous gold, silver, and pathfinder elements. Since acquiring the project, K2 has completed detailed geologic mapping, surface geochemistry, geophysics, alteration mineralogy studies, fluid inclusion analysis, and age dating. These integrated datasets confirm that prior drilling did not test the interpreted boiling zone, where gold grades are typically maximized in epithermal systems. In early 2026, K2 completed an 8-hole, 3,871m exploration drilling program targeting the depths of the system and successfully intersected broad intervals of gold mineralization and blind-to-surface quartz veining.

The Wels Project lies approximately 60km south of Fuerte Metals Coffee project discovered by Kaminak Gold Corporation (formerly a Discovery Group company prior to its acquisition by Goldcorp-Newmont). Both the Coffee project and the Wels project lie within the Tintina Gold Belt, share similar characteristics, and are host to structurally controlled gold mineralization within intrusive rocks exhibiting multiple trends of mineralization. K2’s drilling at the Wels Project has returned strong results including: 3.53g/t Au over 19.5m, and 10.38g/t Au over 6.0m.

The Wolf Project is a new district-scale gold exploration project in west-central Yukon Territory, Canada, located 80 km south of the 3.0 Moz Au Coffee Gold Project currently under development by Fuerte Metals. Wolf consists of the Wolf South block, a >10km long gold-in-soil anomaly previously held by multiple operators and consolidated by K2, and the Wolf North claim blocks which host greenfield intrusion-related and epithermal gold targets.

K2 Gold is committed to responsible exploration, safety, Indigenous and community engagement, and advancing high-quality projects through a collaborative and technically disciplined approach.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

(signed) “Anthony Margarit”

Anthony Margarit,
President and Chief Executive Officer

Investor Inquiries
info@k2gold.com | +1 (604) 331-5090

For additional information about K2 Gold Corporation, please visit K2Gold.com

Follow Us On Social Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | X | YouTube

K2 Gold Corporation is a member of Discovery Group, based in Vancouver, Canada. For more information, please visit: discoverygroup.ca

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements that are not historical facts. Forward- looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the exploration program at Si2, Wels, and Mojave, including results of drilling, and future exploration plans at Si2, Wels, and Mojave. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Company’s inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its planned activities, and the Company’s inability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies. The reader is referred to the Company’s public disclosure record which is available on SEDAR+ (sedarplus.ca). Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except as required by securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. No securities of the Company have been or will, in the foreseeable future, be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE

Initial engineering evaluates 20,000 tonnes of annual nickel production as the first
phase of a broader critical minerals processing facility

TORONTO, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electra Battery Materials Corporation (NASDAQ: ELBM; TSX-V: ELBM) (“Electra” or the “Company”), a leader in North American critical minerals processing, today announced preliminary engineering results for the initial phase of a proposed two-phase nickel refinery to process mine-derived feedstock and recycled battery black mass into nickel metal and battery-grade nickel sulfate. The proposed facility would strengthen North American supply chains by supplying nickel for industrial, military and battery applications, helping reduce reliance on foreign processing.

The preliminary engineering study (FEL-1) evaluates the first-phase conversion of mine-derived feedstock into battery-grade nickel sulfate at a production capacity of approximately 20,000 tonnes per year of contained nickel. Preliminary process modelling indicates nickel and cobalt recoveries of 97% or higher, with recovered cobalt hydroxide providing a potential feedstock for Electra’s cobalt refinery.

“We need the capacity to refine nickel for industrial, military and battery applications,” said Trent Mell, CEO. “Electra is applying the expertise developed through our Ontario cobalt sulfate refinery and battery recycling work to advance a new source of nickel sulfate and nickel metal. Our goal is to strengthen critical mineral supply chains in the United States and Canada and reduce reliance on Chinese processing.”

The proposed facility would address a gap in North America’s capacity to convert nickel feedstock into products for domestic customers. Its intended product flexibility would serve both battery manufacturers requiring battery-grade nickel sulfate and industrial and military customers requiring nickel metal, including for aerospace applications.

The project is designed to establish capacity to process nickel intermediates that might otherwise be refined in China. By processing nickel closer to customers, the facility could help reduce exposure to geopolitical risk and strengthen the security and traceability of Western critical minerals supply chains.

Electra is advancing the financing and commercial strategy for this project in parallel with engineering. The Company continues to engage with governments on funding programs and with upstream and downstream partners on feedstock supply and offtake arrangements. These discussions are intended to align government support and private financing with the supply and customer commitments needed to develop competitive critical minerals processing capacity.

The proposed refinery would use conventional hydrometallurgical processes to refine feedstock from existing mining operations, drawing on Electra’s cobalt refining and battery recycling expertise. This approach would use available feedstock while creating a processing option for future domestic mine supply. The project relies primarily on established processing methods rather than the commercialization of new technology.

Preliminary capital estimates for the first-phase nickel sulfate refinery range from approximately US$530 million to US$675 million across the feedstock configurations evaluated, based on annual production of approximately 20,000 tonnes of contained nickel. Nickel metal production and the second-phase recycling expansion will require separate capital estimates.

A second phase could expand the facility to process battery black mass, with the potential to add an additional 20,000 tonnes per year of contained nickel capacity, along with cobalt, lithium and graphite byproducts. This expansion would build on Electra’s black mass demonstration work to recover critical minerals using hydrometallurgical processes. Recent U.S. restrictions on black mass exports underscore the need to limit critical minerals exports to support investment in domestic processing capacity.

Work completed to date includes preliminary process design, equipment sizing, site layout, infrastructure and logistics assessment, and capital and operating cost estimates. Further engineering is planned for nickel metal production to confirm product specifications, process scope and capital requirements.

The study uses a preferred location in the southeastern United States as its site basis. Final site selection remains subject to further assessment, as well as commercial and funding arrangements. Electra will continue to consider alternative locations in North America as it evaluates access to feedstock and customers, utilities, permitting requirements and the ability to accommodate the second-phase recycling expansion.

The next stage of work will focus on advancing site assessment and permitting planning alongside ongoing funding, feedstock and offtake discussions. As these parallel workstreams progress, Electra intends to refine equipment and utility requirements, effluent and tailings management plans, product specifications, and capital and operating cost estimates. Together, this work is expected to establish the site, feedstock and commercial basis required to advance the Project towards further engineering (FEL-3) and a potential development decision.

“Our focus is on securing the feedstock, customer commitments and financing needed to support a development decision,” said Mell. “We are working with governments and potential commercial partners to establish the conditions for a competitive North American nickel refinery serving industrial, military and battery customers.”

Electra’s immediate priority remains the completion and commissioning of its Ontario cobalt sulfate refinery. The proposed nickel refinery and recycling expansion remain longer-term opportunities.

About Electra Battery Materials

Electra is a leader in advancing North America’s critical minerals supply chain for lithium-ion batteries. The Company’s primary focus is constructing North America’s only cobalt sulfate refinery, as part of a phased strategy to onshore critical minerals refining and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. In addition to the Refinery, Electra holds a significant land package in Idaho’s Cobalt Belt, including its Iron Creek project and surrounding properties, positioning the Company as a potential cornerstone for North American cobalt and copper production.

Electra is also advancing black mass recycling opportunities to recover critical materials from end-of-life batteries, while continuing to evaluate growth opportunities in nickel refining and other downstream battery materials. For more information, please visit www.ElectraBMC.com.

Contact
Heather Smiles
Vice President, External Affairs & Corporate Development
Electra Battery Materials
info@ElectraBMC.com
1.416.900.3891

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

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as “seek”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “budget”, “plan”, “estimate”, “continue”, “forecast”, “intend”, “believe”, “predict”, “potential”, “target”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “occur” or “be achieved” (including negative variations). Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the advancement of a preliminary engineering study for a proposed nickel sulfate refinery; the evaluation of production levels from such a refinery, the identification of a suitable site for such a refinery; and discussions with potential financing and offtake partners. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and assumptions as to the outcome and timing of future events, including, but not limited to, that the anticipated timing for completion of engineering studies, the commercial viability of a nickel sulfate refinery in North America, the availability of government and commercial financing, and the ability to identify a suitable site for development. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, among other things: the commercial viability of a nickel sulfate refinery in North America, the availability of commercially feasible development sites, the negotiation of suitable supply and offtake arrangements with third-parties, the risks and uncertainties relating to commercial development; the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations in Canada and the United States; fluctuations in the prices of commodities; operating hazards and risks; competition and other risks and uncertainties and other such factors as are set forth in the Annual Information Form, as well as the management discussion and analysis and other disclosures of risk factors for the Company, filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Although the Company believes that the information and assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Lithium Corp. (“American Lithium” or the “Company”) (TSX-V:LI | OTCQX:AMLIF | Frankfurt:5LA1) is pleased to report that the Falchani Lithium Project pilot-plant has all systems installed and operating. Recent laboratory testing has demonstrated an improvement in lithium recoveries. The pilot-plant, being advanced by TECMMINE in Lima, Peru, marks a key milestone toward derisking the Falchani project by validating the flowsheet at scale.

Highlights:

• The pilot-plant is fully installed with the various components presently being tested with operating systems performing as expected.
• Latest laboratory bench test work run using pilot plant equipment in a semi-continuous process achieved average lithium extraction of 88.7% (range: 88.0%–89.9%), well above the 80.0% recovery utilized in the February 2024 PEA. ⁽¹⁾
• With all flow sheet equipment now installed and tested, the Company is advancing toward full end-to-end flowsheet validation – at scale in a continuous mode, to validate the bench-scale results.
• The pilot-plant is expected to run continuously at target rates for 3+ months, processing 6–10 tonnes of Falchani mineralization.
• Pilot plant results will feed into the future project feasibility work.

Dr. Laurence Stefan, President and COO, commented: “The results from the key core processing stages have been very encouraging. The consistency we are seeing gives us strong confidence as we move rapidly toward full pilot plant operations. Every stage we bring online has added to our understanding of how this deposit will perform at scale, optimizing to build on the promising recent results.”

The Company initially prioritized commissioning the plant’s core systems and are all operational and performing as expected. The key core systems are — impurity removal, controlled cooling, pre-neutralization, neutralization, crystallization, centrifugal separation, and consumables’ reaction management — all now individually validated. Recent laboratory bench test work that used individual components of the pilot-plant in a semi-continuous flow sheet (mainly crystallizers and evaporator) delivered very consistent results. Lithium losses across the alum crystallization, pre-neutralization, neutralization, mechanical evaporation, and precipitation stages were reduced to fractions of a percent per phase, driving the 88.7% overall lithium recovery, which is above the PEA recovery rate noted above. ⁽¹⁾

Falchani’s volcanic-hosted lithium mineralization has naturally low impurities, supporting a simple flowsheet capable of producing battery-grade lithium carbonate exceeding 99.5% purity.

Figure 1: Partial View of the Pilot Plant. More Images Here

Qualified Person

Mr. Ted O’Connor, P.Geo., a Director of American Lithium, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

About TECMMINE

TECMMINE E.I.R.L. is a Peruvian metallurgical consulting company based in Lima, Peru with mineral processing and metallurgical testing laboratory facilities and experienced metallurgical personnel led by Eng. Jose Malqui.

About American Lithium

American Lithium is developing two of the world’s largest, advanced-stage lithium projects, along with the largest undeveloped uranium project in Latin America. They include the TLC claystone lithium project in Nevada and the Falchani hard-rock lithium project in southern Peru, which also hosts a globally significant cesium resource, as well as the Macusani uranium project located in the same region. All three projects have completed robust preliminary economic assessments, exhibit significant expansion potential and enjoy strong community support.

For more information, please contact the Company at info@americanlithiumcorp.com or visit our website at www.americanlithiumcorp.com.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of American Lithium Corp.

“Alex Tsakumis”

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 604 428 6128

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

⁽¹⁾Cautionary Note Regarding PEA
Certain technical information in this News Release refers to the results of the PEA prepared for the Project. PEAs are preliminary in nature and include inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. There is no certainty the results of the PEA’s will be realized. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Additional work is required to upgrade the mineral resources to mineral reserves. In addition, the mineral resource estimates could be materially affected by environmental, geotechnical, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant factors.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information
This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the business plans, expectations and objectives of American Lithium. Forward-looking statements are frequently identified by such words as “may”, “will”, “plan”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “intend”, “indicate”, “scheduled”, “target”, “goal”, “potential”, “subject”, “efforts”, “option” and similar words, or the negative connotations thereof, referring to future events and results. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management and are not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Although American Lithium believes that the current opinions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available at the time, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since American Lithium can provide no assurance that such opinions and expectations will prove to be correct. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to: American Lithium’s ability to achieve its stated goals;, which could have a material adverse impact on many aspects of American Lithium’s businesses including but not limited to: the ability to access mineral properties for indeterminate amounts of time, the health of the employees or consultants resulting in delays or diminished capacity, social or political instability in Peru which in turn could impact American Lithium’s ability to maintain the continuity of its business operating requirements, may result in the reduced availability or failures of various local administration and critical infrastructure, reduced demand for the American Lithium’s potential products, availability of materials, global travel restrictions, and the availability of insurance and the associated costs; the ongoing ability to work cooperatively with stakeholders, including but not limited to local communities and all levels of government; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that any future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with our expectations; risks that permits will not be obtained as planned or delays in obtaining permits; mining and development risks, including risks related to accidents, equipment breakdowns, labour disputes (including work stoppages, strikes and loss of personnel) or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in exploration and development; risks related to commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; risks related to foreign operations; the cyclical nature of the industry in which American Lithium operates; risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms or delays in obtaining governmental approvals; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the uncertain global economic environment and the effects upon the global market generally, any of which could continue to negatively affect global financial markets, including the trading price of American Lithium’s shares and could negatively affect American Lithium’s ability to raise capital and may also result in additional and unknown risks or liabilities to American Lithium. Other risks and uncertainties related to prospects, properties and business strategy of American Lithium are identified in the “Risk Factors” section of American Lithium’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis filed on July 30, 2026, and in recent securities filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. American Lithium undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/48f7ceb5-b758-4abc-be22-054246720555

MONTREAL, Sept. 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aya Gold & Silver Inc. (TSX: AYA; NASDAQ: AYA) (“Aya” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce high-grade silver drill results from its at-depth drill exploration program at the Zgounder Silver Mine (“Zgounder”) in the Kingdom of Morocco.

Highlights (all intersections are in core lengths)

• Intersections in the Open-Pit Area:
  • Hole ZG-RC-24-155 intercepted 783 grams per tonne (“g/t”) silver (“Ag”) over 13.0 metres (“m”)
  • Hole ZG-RC-24-354 intercepted 501 g/t Ag over 11.0m, including 4,000 g/t over 1.0m
  • Hole ZG-SF-25-702 intercepted 1,553 g/t Ag over 1.4m
• Intersections in the Central Area:
  • Hole DZG-SF-26-945 intercepted 3,501 g/t Ag over 3.5m, including 7,717 g/t Ag over 1.5m
  • Hole T28-26-1334 intercepted 4,770 g/t Ag over 2.4m
  • Hole T28-26-1333 intercepted 1,362 g/t Ag over 8.4m, including 2,873 g/t Ag over 3.6m
  • Hole T28-26-1404 intercepted 762 g/t Ag over 12.0m
• 16,217m or 54.1% of the 2026 exploration program has been drilled year to date.

“Today’s high-grade results, highlighted by DZG-SF-26-945, continue to reinforce the strength and continuity of silver mineralization both around the open pit and across the central zone,” said Benoit La Salle, President & CEO. “At the same time, development of the exploration drift at the 1,825-metre level is progressing well, setting the stage for drilling west of the fault to begin in Q4 and providing an important new opportunity to expand the mineralized footprint.”

This release contains results from 97 holes, which include one surface diamond drill holes (“DDH”), 31 underground DDH, seven reverse circulation drill hole (“RC”), 45 T28 and 13 YAK holes (T28 and YAK: percussion drilling using an air-compressed hammer). For a full summary of today’s results, refer to Appendix 1 and 2.

Table 1 – Best Intercepts at Zgounder (core lengths)

Hole ID	From	To	Ag	Length*	Ag x width
			(g/t)	(m)
Underground DDH
DZG-SF-25-702	58.3	59.7	1,553	1.4	2,174
DZG-SF-25-789	18.5	21.0	760	2.5	1,901
DZG-SF-26-885	124.0	125.0	1,503	1.0	1,503
DZG-SF-26-898	109.5	111.0	1,208	1.5	1,812
DZG-SF-26-943	34.5	36.0	874	1.5	1,311
DZG-SF-26-945	16.0	19.5	3,501	3.5	12,254
Including	16.5	18.0	7,717	1.5	11,575
Surface RC
ZG-RC-24-155	0.0	13.0	783	13.0	10,180
ZG-RC-24-354	2.0	13.0	501	11.0	5,512
Including	6.0	7.0	4,000	1.0	4,000
Underground T28
T28-26-1325	0.0	9.6	302	9.6	2,903
T28-26-1333	9.6	18.0	1,362	8.4	11,437
Including	9.6	13.2	2,873	3.6	10,344
T28-26-1334	24.0	26.4	4,770	2.4	11,448
T28-26-1335	13.2	15.6	1,603	2.4	3,846
T28-26-1358	16.8	24.0	450	7.2	3,242
T28-26-1401	7.2	15.6	258	8.4	2,164
T28-26-1404	7.2	19.2	762	12.0	9,149
T28-26-1420	3.6	26.4	297	22.8	6,775
Including	3.6	14.4	382	10.8	4,128
T28-26-1441	18.0	25.2	403	7.2	2,898
Including	21.6	25.2	695	3.6	2,501
T28-26-1443	14.4	25.2	468	10.8	5,050
Including	14.4	16.8	1,168	2.4	2,802
T28-26-1447	7.2	18.0	232	10.8	2,506
T28-26-1448	19.2	24.0	450	4.8	2,158
Underground YAK
YAK-26-554	12.0	15.6	1,670	3.6	6,012
YAK-26-571	9.6	13.2	606	3.6	2,182
YAK-26-575	33.6	36.0	1,715	2.4	4,116

Figure 1: Location of Drill Results at Zgounder

Quality Assurance

For core drilling, all individual samples represent approximately one meter in length of core, which is halved. Half of the core is kept on site for reference, and its counterpart is sent for preparation and assaying to African Laboratory for Mining and Environment (“Afrilab”) in Marrakech, Morocco or to ALS Laboratory at the Zgounder Mine site. All samples are analyzed for silver, copper, iron, lead, and zinc using Aqua regia and finished by atomic absorption spectroscopy (“AAS”). Samples grading above 200 g/t Ag are reanalyzed by fire assay.

For definition drilling using RC, all individual samples represent 1.0m in length and for T28 drilling equipment, all individual samples represent 1.2m in length. Samples are assayed at either the ALS Mine laboratory or at Afrilab. All samples are analyzed for silver, copper, iron, lead, and zinc using Aqua regia and finished by AAS. Samples grading above 200 g/t Ag are reanalyzed by fire assay. Rigorous quality controls (QaQc) are applied at both locations.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed, verified and approved by David Lalonde, B. Sc, P. Geo, Executive Vice-President, Exploration, Qualified Person, for accuracy and compliance with National Instrument 43-101.

About Aya Gold & Silver Inc.

Aya Gold & Silver is a Canadian precious metals mining company anchored in Morocco and active across the full mining value chain. The Company has established an exploration track record through a systematic, technology-led, data-driven approach and is focused on expanding its resource base and land package along the Anti-Atlas fault — one of Africa’s most geologically rich, underexplored and mining-friendly regions.

Aya operates Zgounder, a rare, silver-only mine, producing silver doré from its new processing facility. Aya’s growth pipeline includes the Boumadine polymetallic project, where feasibility study work is underway, and which hosts a sizable mineralized footprint, and potential for further discovery.

Led by a proven team of mining professionals, Aya is guided by a vision of responsible mining and is committed to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees and host communities.

For additional information, please visit Aya’s website at www.ayagoldsilver.com.

Or contact

Benoit La Salle, FCPA, MBA	Alex Ball
President & CEO	Executive Vice-President, Capital Markets
benoit.lasalle@ayagoldsilver.com	alex.ball@ayagoldsilver.com

Forward-Looking Statement 

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are included to provide information about management’s current expectations, estimates and projections regarding Aya’s future growth and business prospects (including the timing and development of deposits and the success of exploration activities) and other opportunities as of the date of this press release.

All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this press release, regarding the Company’s strategy, future operations, technical assessments, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Wherever possible, words such as “aim”, “anticipate”, “assume”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “goal”, “guidance”, “intend”, “objective”, “plan”, “potential”, “strategy”, “target”, and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will”, or are “likely” to be taken, occur or be achieved, have been used to identify such forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the 2026 exploration program; the timing and commencement of drilling west of the fault at Zgounder; and the potential expansion of the mineralized footprint at Zgounder.

Forward-looking information is based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such information or statements. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate. Key assumptions upon which the Company’s forward-looking information is based include without limitation, assumptions regarding development and exploration activities; the Company’s ability to execute its business plans and objectives; the ability to commence and successfully execute planned drilling and exploration activities; the accuracy of the Company’s geological interpretations and the continuity of mineralization in areas targeted for exploration; the continued validity and good standing of the mining titles necessary to conduct the planned exploration activities; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; future social, economic and political conditions remaining consistent with those currently prevailing; the availability of qualified contractors, consultants, suppliers, equipment, materials and labour on commercially reasonable terms; and the cooperation of government authorities, municipalities and other stakeholders.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. Forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. Some of the risks the Company faces and the uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others: Aya’s ability to execute on its plans relating to the Zgounder Project, including the timing thereof; delays in the development of the exploration drift or in accessing areas targeted for drilling; delays in the commencement or completion of planned drilling and exploration activities; the risk that exploration results may not be indicative of future results; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, potential unintended releases of contaminants, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected geological or structural formations, pressures, cave-ins, and flooding; risks related to Aya’s operations in Morocco; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; inadequate or unreliable infrastructure (such as roads, bridges, power sources and water supplies); fluctuations in forward markets for silver and other commodities (such as natural gas, fuel, oil and electricity); availability of gas, fuel and oil; restrictions on mining in the jurisdictions in which Aya operates; changes in laws and regulations governing our operations, exploration, and development activities, including international laws and legal norms; the potential impact of future pandemics or epidemics on the Company’s operations, and assumptions related thereto; Aya’s ability to attract and retain qualified employees and contractors; Aya’s ability to obtain and renew necessary permits and licences; Aya’s ability to obtain and maintain insurance; occupational health and safety risks; adverse publicity risks; third-party risks; disruptions to Aya’s business operations; Aya’s reliance on technology and information systems; unforeseen expenses; public health crises; climate change; weather disruptions; general economic conditions; force majeure; the inherent risks involved in exploration and development of mineral properties; and other risks described in the Company’s documents filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulatory authorities.

In addition, readers are directed to carefully review the detailed risk discussion in the Company’s Annual Information Form and Management’s Discussion & Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2025, filed on SEDAR+ and on EDGAR, which discussions are incorporated by reference in this press release, for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Company’s business and operations.

Although the Company believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. As such, these risks are not exhaustive; however, they should be considered carefully. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements found herein. Due to the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions inherent in forward-looking statements, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company’s business plans, financial performance and condition and may not be appropriate for other purposes.

The forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. The Company qualifies all of its forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

Appendix 1 – Mineral Intercepts from Drilling at Zgounder (core lengths)

Hole ID	From	To	Ag	Length*	Ag x width
			(g/t)	(m)
Surface DDH
ZG-26-211	537.0	538.0	645	1.0	645
Underground DDH
ZG-26-211	537.0	538.0	645	1.0	645
ZG-SF-26-361	135.0	136.0	358	1.0	358
ZG-SF-26-361	155.0	157.0	147	2.0	294
ZG-SF-26-361	170.0	174.0	268	4.0	1,071
ZG-SF-TS-26-008A	31.0	31.5	220	0.5	110
ZG-SF-TS-26-008A	50.5	52.0	172	1.5	258
DZG-SF-25-702	58.3	59.7	1,553	1.4	2,174
DZG-SF-25-708	46.9	48.0	356	1.1	392
DZG-SF-25-727	0.0	1.7	108	1.7	183
DZG-SF-25-771	30.5	32.0	240	1.5	360
DZG-SF-25-773	26.0	27.5	388	1.5	582
DZG-SF-25-789	2.5	3.5	561	1.0	561
DZG-SF-25-789	18.5	21.0	760	2.5	1,901
DZG-SF-26-829	6.5	8.0	136	1.5	204
DZG-SF-26-871	72.0	73.5	288	1.5	432
DZG-SF-26-879	56.0	57.0	104	1.0	104
DZG-SF-26-884	81.0	82.1	212	1.1	233
DZG-SF-26-885	124.0	125.0	1,503	1.0	1,503
DZG-SF-26-886	45.5	46.0	364	0.5	182
DZG-SF-26-891	42.0	43.5	83	1.5	125
DZG-SF-26-895	56.5	57.5	206	1.0	206
DZG-SF-26-898	109.5	111.0	1,208	1.5	1,812
DZG-SF-26-899	31.0	32.0	384	1.0	384
DZG-SF-26-900	30.5	31.5	1,147	1.0	1,147
DZG-SF-26-904	30.0	33.0	111	3.0	333
DZG-SF-26-910	33.0	34.5	121	1.5	182
DZG-SF-26-912	95.0	96.5	291	1.5	436
DZG-SF-26-916	116.0	119.5	252	3.5	881
DZG-SF-26-916	138.0	139.0	79	1.0	79
DZG-SF-26-922	32.0	33.0	77	1.0	77
DZG-SF-26-922	37.0	42.0	229	5.0	1,144
DZG-SF-26-928	3.8	5.3	212	1.5	318
DZG-SF-26-933	75.0	76.0	759	1.0	759
DZG-SF-26-933	91.0	92.0	651	1.0	651
DZG-SF-26-943	1.0	1.8	93	0.8	74
DZG-SF-26-943	4.5	6.0	107	1.5	161
DZG-SF-26-943	7.5	9.0	106	1.5	159
DZG-SF-26-943	29.5	30.0	94	0.5	47
DZG-SF-26-943	34.5	36.0	874	1.5	1,311
DZG-SF-26-944	12.5	13.5	82	1.0	82
DZG-SF-26-944	42.3	43.5	141	1.2	169
DZG-SF-26-945	10.1	11.5	506	1.4	708
DZG-SF-26-945	16.0	19.5	3,501	3.5	12,254
Including	16.5	18.0	7,717	1.5	11,575
DZG-SF-26-945	21.0	22.5	101	1.5	152
DZG-SF-26-946	4.5	6.0	89	1.5	134
DZG-SF-26-946	81.5	83.0	290	1.5	435
DZG-SJ-CD-26-028	49.0	50.0	99	1.0	99
DZG-SJ-CD-26-028	51.0	52.0	123	1.0	123
Surface RC
ZG-RC-24-155	0.0	13.0	783	13.0	10,180
ZG-RC-24-250	72.0	73.0	680	1.0	680
ZG-RC-24-354	2.0	13.0	501	11.0	5,512
Including	6.0	7.0	4,000	1.0	4,000
ZG-RC-24-421	0.0	3.0	143	3.0	428
ZG-RC-25-412	50.0	51.0	824	1.0	824
ZG-RC-26-1046	17.0	19.0	102	2.0	203
ZG-RC-26-1054	24.0	25.0	150	1.0	150
Underground T28
T28-26-1310	14.4	16.8	682	2.4	1,636
T28-26-1311	7.2	9.6	100	2.4	239
T28-26-1312	21.6	24.0	97	2.4	233
T28-26-1324	0.0	3.6	174	3.6	628
T28-26-1325	0.0	9.6	302	9.6	2,903
T28-26-1332	10.8	13.2	537	2.4	1,289
T28-26-1332	16.8	18.0	116	1.2	139
T28-26-1333	9.6	18.0	1,362	8.4	11,437
Including	9.6	13.2	2,873	3.6	10,344
T28-26-1334	9.6	16.8	260	7.2	1,872
T28-26-1334	24.0	26.4	4,770	2.4	11,448
T28-26-1335	13.2	15.6	1,603	2.4	3,846
T28-26-1357	18.0	19.2	77	1.2	92
T28-26-1358	16.8	24.0	450	7.2	3,242
T28-26-1361	21.6	24.0	151	2.4	362
T28-26-1382	0.0	1.2	151	1.2	181
T28-26-1389	9.6	13.2	88	3.6	318
T28-26-1392	0.0	4.8	267	4.8	1,282
T28-26-1401	7.2	15.6	258	8.4	2,164
Including	7.2	10.8	483	3.6	1,739
T28-26-1402	2.4	4.8	111	2.4	265
T28-26-1403	7.2	10.8	109	3.6	391
T28-26-1404	7.2	19.2	762	12.0	9,149
T28-26-1405	19.2	21.6	87	2.4	208
T28-26-1406	10.8	13.2	193	2.4	462
T28-26-1407	9.6	12.0	193	2.4	463
T28-26-1410	4.8	6.0	80	1.2	96
T28-26-1411	7.2	9.6	252	2.4	605
T28-26-1411	10.8	12.0	90	1.2	108
T28-26-1412	3.6	9.6	168	6.0	1,008
T28-26-1413	9.6	10.8	85	1.2	102
T28-26-1414	0.0	4.8	295	4.8	1,414
T28-26-1415	0.0	3.6	133	3.6	479
T28-26-1415	9.6	10.8	116	1.2	139
T28-26-1415	14.4	16.8	314	2.4	754
T28-26-1418	18.0	19.2	155	1.2	186
T28-26-1419	4.8	6.0	77	1.2	92
T28-26-1419	8.4	9.6	117	1.2	140
T28-26-1419	13.2	14.4	132	1.2	158
T28-26-1419	15.6	20.4	159	4.8	763
T28-26-1419	25.2	26.4	216	1.2	259
T28-26-1420	3.6	26.4	297	22.8	6,775
Including	3.6	14.4	382	10.8	4,128
T28-26-1422	10.8	12.0	95	1.2	114
T28-26-1425	19.2	21.6	114	2.4	272
T28-26-1441	18.0	25.2	403	7.2	2,898
Including	21.6	25.2	695	3.6	2,501
T28-26-1442	0.0	1.2	553	1.2	664
T28-26-1442	21.6	24.0	163	2.4	390
T28-26-1443	7.2	8.4	80	1.2	96
T28-26-1443	10.8	12.0	89	1.2	107
T28-26-1443	14.4	25.2	468	10.8	5,050
Including	14.4	16.8	1,168	2.4	2,802
T28-26-1444	13.2	15.6	90	2.4	216
T28-26-1444	19.2	22.8	271	3.6	974
T28-26-1447	7.2	18.0	232	10.8	2,506
Including	14.4	18.0	444	3.6	1,598
T28-26-1448	16.8	18.0	108	1.2	130
T28-26-1448	19.2	24.0	450	4.8	2,158
T28-26-1449	19.2	20.4	87	1.2	104
T28-26-1450	7.2	8.4	79	1.2	95
T28-26-1450	16.8	19.2	134	2.4	322
T28-26-1451	19.2	20.4	195	1.2	234
T28-26-1463	9.6	15.6	130	6.0	780
T28-26-1464	9.6	14.4	154	4.8	738
T28-26-1466	13.2	15.6	283	2.4	679
Underground YAK
YAK-26-503	4.8	6.0	599	1.2	719
YAK-26-515	8.4	10.8	82	2.4	196
YAK-26-515	13.2	14.4	166	1.2	199
YAK-26-520	4.8	6.0	240	1.2	288
YAK-26-553	3.6	4.8	101	1.2	121
YAK-26-553	8.4	9.6	126	1.2	151
YAK-26-553	10.8	12.0	191	1.2	229
YAK-26-553	43.2	44.4	83	1.2	100
YAK-26-554	12.0	15.6	1,670	3.6	6,012
YAK-26-561	46.8	48.0	77	1.2	92
YAK-26-562	0.0	1.2	86	1.2	103
YAK-26-563	1.2	2.4	266	1.2	319
YAK-26-568	48.0	49.2	113	1.2	136
YAK-26-571	9.6	13.2	606	3.6	2,182
YAK-26-572	6.0	10.8	152	4.8	728
YAK-26-572	44.4	45.6	92	1.2	110
YAK-26-575	33.6	36.0	1,715	2.4	4,116
YAK-26-581	28.8	32.4	318	3.6	1,144

True widths are undetermined; all values are uncut.

Appendix 2 – Drill Hole Coordinates of Zgounder Drill Hole with Significant Results

Hole ID	Easting	Northing	Elevation	Azimuth	Dip	Length (m)
Surface DDH
ZG-26-211	620442	3403648	2076	0	-75	564
Underground DDH
ZG-SF-26-361	620832	3403979	1969	180	-86	216
ZG-SF-TS-26-008A	620529	3403908	1919	170	-63	74
DZG-SF-25-702	621211	3404043	2073	65	16	80
DZG-SF-25-708	621212	3404040	2072	98	-14	65
DZG-SF-25-727	620983	3404059	1969	5	36	65
DZG-SF-25-771	620554	3404007	1909	72	-30	100
DZG-SF-25-773	620554	3404007	1909	72	0	90
DZG-SF-25-789	620549	3404009	1908	338	-30	80
DZG-SF-26-829	621127	3404082	2020	27	22	60
DZG-SF-26-871	620700	3403985	1885	56	-6	150
DZG-SF-26-879	620918	3404096	1997	267	3	60
DZG-SF-26-884	620793	3404090	1937	268	0	135
DZG-SF-26-885	620793	3404088	1937	259	0	132
DZG-SF-26-886	620918	3404098	1996	289	-11	60
DZG-SF-26-891	620429	3404008	1945	323	2	150
DZG-SF-26-895	620437	3404006	1945	80	4	60
DZG-SF-26-898	620767	3404056	1912	83	0	150
DZG-SF-26-899	620766	3404057	1912	72	-10	150
DZG-SF-26-900	620766	3404057	1912	72	0	134
DZG-SF-26-904	620761	3404058	1912	330	0	150
DZG-SF-26-910	620759	3404054	1912	278	-10	150
DZG-SF-26-912	620801	3404090	1937	60	0	150
DZG-SF-26-916	620793	3404087	1937	259	-10	150
DZG-SF-26-922	620801	3404089	1937	97	-10	150
DZG-SF-26-928	621087	3404093	1973	109	-21	75
DZG-SF-26-933	621080	3404095	1973	298	-1	95
DZG-SF-26-943	621055	3404053	1941	330	0	150
DZG-SF-26-944	621054	3404052	1941	315	0	150
DZG-SF-26-945	621052	3404051	1941	299	0	150
DZG-SF-26-946	621080	3404095	1974	299	14	95
DZG-SJ-CD-26-028	621286	3404887	2205	135	-60	59
Surface RC
ZG-RC-24-155	621245	3404121	2234	180	-72	124
ZG-RC-24-250	621158	3404095	2222	180	-70	74
ZG-RC-24-354	621033	3404068	2228	180	-70	80
ZG-RC-24-421	621033	3404093	2223	135	-70	50
ZG-RC-25-412	621052	3404094	2222	135	-70	55
ZG-RC-26-1046	621206	3404141	2201	135	-71	60
ZG-RC-26-1054	621187	3404125	2201	135	-70	50
Underground T28
T28-26-1310	621054	3404106	2027	82	10	26
T28-26-1311	621054	3404106	2027	82	25	26
T28-26-1312	621057	3404101	2027	99	13	26
T28-26-1324	620602	3403990	1909	183	12	26
T28-26-1325	620602	3403990	1909	179	21	25
T28-26-1332	620633	3403997	1909	68	9	23
T28-26-1333	620633	3403997	1910	68	21	22
T28-26-1334	620622	3404019	1910	120	8	26
T28-26-1335	620622	3404019	1910	120	20	26
T28-26-1357	620636	3404087	2000	360	14	26
T28-26-1358	620632	3404087	2001	348	19	26
T28-26-1361	620651	3404077	1998	219	5	26
T28-26-1382	620768	3404040	2023	358	15	25
T28-26-1389	620602	3404045	1910	136	9	19
T28-26-1392	620597	3404046	1910	338	9	12
T28-26-1401	620896	3404033	2002	67	5	26
T28-26-1402	620896	3404033	2002	85	20	26
T28-26-1403	620896	3404035	2002	58	5	26
T28-26-1404	620896	3404035	2002	58	20	24
T28-26-1405	620895	3404038	2002	46	5	26
T28-26-1406	620894	3404038	2002	40	20	25
T28-26-1407	620893	3404040	2002	30	5	19
T28-26-1410	620890	3404040	2003	358	20	12
T28-26-1411	620888	3404040	2003	325	5	26
T28-26-1412	620888	3404040	2003	323	20	26
T28-26-1413	620887	3404039	2002	308	5	13
T28-26-1414	620887	3404039	2003	311	20	26
T28-26-1415	620886	3404038	2002	319	5	17
T28-26-1418	620884	3404036	2003	271	20	26
T28-26-1419	620888	3404033	2002	255	5	26
T28-26-1420	620888	3404034	2002	256	20	26
T28-26-1422	620890	3404032	2002	230	20	19
T28-26-1425	620670	3404005	1910	66	5	25
T28-26-1441	620965	3404113	1995	271	5	25
T28-26-1442	620965	3404113	1995	271	13	24
T28-26-1443	620964	3404119	1995	273	6	25
T28-26-1444	620964	3404119	1995	268	11	25
T28-26-1447	620973	3404117	1995	94	10	26
T28-26-1448	620966	3404130	1995	92	7	24
T28-26-1449	620973	3404111	1995	92	16	26
T28-26-1450	620973	3404117	1995	91	17	22
T28-26-1451	620966	3404130	1995	90	21	26
T28-26-1463	620492	3404058	1909	253	10	22
T28-26-1464	620490	3404048	1911	255	5	23
T28-26-1466	620519	3404045	1910	122	20	26
Underground YAK
YAK-26-503	620401	3404064	1956	268	11	50
YAK-26-515	620424	3404105	1955	108	28	31
YAK-26-520	620384	3404089	1954	278	10	50
YAK-26-553	620888	3404131	2023	290	5	49
YAK-26-554	620891	3404136	2023	302	5	50
YAK-26-561	620903	3404135	2023	103	5	50
YAK-26-562	620897	3404130	2023	110	5	50
YAK-26-563	620897	3404130	2023	110	22	50
YAK-26-568	620900	3404140	2023	5	15	50
YAK-26-571	620891	3404136	2023	302	15	50
YAK-26-572	620888	3404131	2023	290	15	49
YAK-26-575	621081	3404068	2028	121	6	36
YAK-26-581	621081	3404075	2028	72	19	32

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe3e0d90-df72-40f8-b1a1-22762834fbf0