Author: Ravi Shankar

SHANGHAI, China, Sept. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Qfin Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: QFIN; HKEx: 3660) (“Qfin Holdings” or the “Company”), a leading AI-empowered Credit-Tech platform in China, today announced changes in its senior management and the composition of its board of directors (the “Board”). In light of the growth and potential of the Company’s international business and its long-term strategic development, Mr. Haisheng Wu, the chief executive officer and a director of the Company, intends to focus more of his time on the development of the Company’s international business. In order to dedicate his attention to this area, Mr. Wu will step down as the chief executive officer and a director of the Company and will cease to be a member of the compensation committee of the Board.

The Board has approved the appointment of Mr. Yan Zheng as the chief executive officer and a director of the Company, succeeding Mr. Wu, effective September 21, 2026.

Prior to his appointment as the chief executive officer, Mr. Zheng served as the Company’s vice president from February 2017 and as its chief risk officer from July 2020. Mr. Zheng has 18 years of experience in consumer finance risk management. Before joining the Company, Mr. Zheng co-founded Shenzhen Samoyed Internet Finance Service Co. Ltd. in May 2015, and was in charge of its credit product risk management. Prior to that, Mr. Zheng worked at the risk management department at the headquarters of China Merchants Bank (Shanghai Stock Exchange: 600036) from November 2014 to April 2015 and was responsible for the preparation and establishment of China Merchants Union Consumer Finance Company Limited. Prior to that, Mr. Zheng worked at the risk management department of the Credit Card Center of China Merchants Bank from July 2008 to October 2014, primarily responsible for the consumer credit policies, credit limits and the preparation and establishment of China Merchants Union Consumer Finance Company Limited. Mr. Zheng received his bachelor’s degree in quantitative economics (Chinese-foreign) from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics in 2008 and his EMBA degree from Fudan University in 2025.

“Mr. Wu has made an invaluable contribution to the Company since the inception of our business and throughout his tenure as chief executive officer. On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Wu for his leadership and dedication during his years of service. We are pleased that Mr. Wu will stay with the Company and focus on our international expansion, and he will work closely with Mr. Zheng to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities. We are confident that Mr. Wu’s experience and insight will continue to provide valuable input to the Company’s long-term development,” said Mr. Fan Zhao, chairman of the Board. “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Zheng to the Board and appoint him as the Company’s chief executive officer. Mr. Zheng has 18 years of experience in consumer finance risk management, and we are confident that he will lead the Company into a new stage of business development. We look forward to working closely with him in maximizing long-term value for all of our shareholders.”

About Qfin Holdings

Qfin Holdings is a leading AI-empowered Credit-Tech platform in China. By leveraging its sophisticated machine learning models and data analytics capabilities, the Company provides a comprehensive suite of technology services to assist financial institutions and consumers and SMEs in the loan lifecycle, ranging from borrower acquisition, preliminary credit assessment, fund matching and post-facilitation services. The Company is dedicated to making credit services more accessible and personalized to consumers and SMEs through Credit-Tech services to financial institutions.

For more information, please visit: https://ir.qfin.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this announcement, as well as the Company’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Qfin Holdings may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, which factors include but not limited to the following: the Company’s growth strategies, changes in laws, rules and regulatory environments, the recognition of the Company’s brand, market acceptance of the Company’s products and services, trends and developments in the credit-tech industry, governmental policies relating to the credit-tech industry, general economic conditions in China and around the globe, and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in Qfin Holdings’ filings with the SEC and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Qfin Holdings does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:
Qfin Holdings
E-mail: ir@qfin.com

SAXONBURG, Pa., Sept. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), the global leader in photonics, today announced new optical technologies and live demonstrations designed to help customers scale AI infrastructure at the European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) 2026 in Málaga, Spain.

At Stand 2100, Hall 2, Coherent will showcase innovations spanning AI datacenter connectivity, co-packaged optics (CPO) and near-packaged optics (NPO), next-generation pluggable transceivers, optical transport, specialty fibers, optical circuit switching, advanced materials, and thermal management addressing rising power density.

PhotonLink™, a new integrated optics platforms which brings together Coherent’s critical optical technologies and integration capabilities to support CPO, NPO and emerging chip to chip connectivity. The platform combines components and complete optical assemblies with manufacturing at scale. Additional details about PhotonLink will be announced separately.

“Scaling AI infrastructure requires more than bandwidth – it requires solving power, integration and thermal challenges together,” said Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi, Chief Marketing Officer at Coherent. “At ECOC, we are demonstrating how Coherent’s expertise across materials, components and optical systems helps customers address those challenges – from connections near compute to links between datacenters.”

FEATURED TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS

Coherent’s demonstrations illustrate how its vertical integration across materials, devices, components, modules and systems supports different AI connectivity architectures including scale-across, scale-out, scale-up and chip to chip. Highlights include:

3.2T 2xDR4 Transceiver in an OSFP-Size Package
Coherent will demonstrate a compact 3.2T pluggable architecture with dual 1.6T optical paths in an OSFP-size package. The technology demonstration incorporates eight 425G PAM4 line-side optical lanes, Coherent Differential EMLs and Coherent photodiodes, highlighting progress toward next-generation 400G-per-lane optical connectivity.

6.4T NPO Optical Engine
A 6.4T NPO demonstration will showcase a compact and power-efficient optical engine for high-density AI Scale-Up and Scale-Out fabrics. The demonstration brings together silicon photonics, fiber attach technology, ELSFPs, and Coherent laser technology to illustrate the advantages of vertical integration across critical optical interfaces.

VCSEL-Based Optics for AI Scale-Up
Coherent will demonstrate high-density 2D VCSEL and photodiode arrays for highly parallel optical architectures in CPO and NPO low latency connectivity.

Full C-Band Pluggable Optical Line System
For DCI and Scale-Across applications, Coherent will showcase its LS200 full C-band pluggable optical line system for datacenter interconnect and transport applications. The compact architecture brings pluggable line-system functionality closer to the router or switch while supporting flexible point-to-point optical transport.

OPTICAL COMPONENTS, ASSEMBLIES AND MODULES

Coherent will also showcase new products and emerging technologies across its optical networking portfolio, including:

• FlexConnect
  A detachable fiber array unit connector for CPO applications designed to simplify assembly and maintenance, with repeatable plug-unplug performance, interchangeability and an epoxy-free optical path compatible with high-power lasers.
• OptiAlign
  A high-precision fiber array unit for CPO applications designed to support precise pitch control and high fiber-channel counts. Coherent combines an internally developed V-groove with customized fiber dimensions to address demanding optical alignment requirements.
• OptiFocus
  A two-in-one coupling lens design for ELS, intended to simplify optical assembly while providing high coupling efficiency.
• FiberPack
  A passive fiber assembly kit for scale-up and scale-out architectures that integrates fiber attach, micro-lens, tray, and termination technologies, drawing on Coherent’s vertically integrated optical-components manufacturing.
• OptiPolar Array X
  A multi-channel Polarization Beam Splitter Array in a super-compact form factor based on glass material optimized for multi-lane systems.
• 2D micro-VCSEL and PD array
  High Density 2D Array of individually addressable emitters and PD array with integrated lenses designed for flip chip bonding in NPO or CPO architectures.
• Specialty Fibers
  Tight geometry-controlled Polarization Maintaining Fiber; Mode-Matched Fiber for improved coupling efficiency into edge-coupled silicon photonics; and multi-core fiber for high-density AI datacenter solutions.

• Ultra-High-Power (UHP) CW laser
  Enabled by a proprietary design and advanced manufacturing processes, this ultra-high-power continuous-wave (CW) laser delivers high spectral stability, narrow linewidth, and low relative intensity noise (RIN) across its full operating range.

• Pluggable Optical Line System (POLS)
  A full C-band optical line system with a high-power, variable-gain amplifier in a compact QSFP form factor. Designed for 800G ZR/ZR+ digital coherent optics, it supports up to 32 DWDM wavelengths over a single fiber pair, carrying up to 25.6Tbps across links from 2km to 200km.

THERMAL MANAGEMENT FOR HIGH DENSITY AI INFRASTRUCTURE

Coherent will also showcase Thermadite™ materials, diamond-based solutions and other advanced materials and components designed to address the growing power density and cooling requirements of AI infrastructure.

PARTNER AND QUANTUM TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATIONS

Coherent will participate in OIF interoperability and, separately, demonstrate quantum technologies for networking and encryption applications with industry partners.

With Quside, Coherent will demonstrate quantum random number generation for encryption applications using live quantum entropy alongside Coherent optical connectivity. With CUbIQ, Coherent will participate in a quantum key distribution demonstration in a compact pluggable architecture.

INDUSTRY THOUGHT LEADERSHIP AT ECOC 2026

Coherent executives and technology experts will contribute to Market Focus sessions and the ECOC technical program, covering AI datacenter infrastructure, CPO, optical interconnect scaling, advanced materials, coherent-lite optics and satellite connectivity.

MARKET FOCUS

Monday, September 21, 2026

Cooling Smarter: How Advanced Materials Unlock Datacenter Efficiency
Speaker: Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi
11:40 a.m. – 11:55 a.m.

Panel: Modules and Subsystems
Co-Chair: Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi
1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Beyond 1.6T: Enabling AI Datacenter Scale with Coherent-Lite Optics
Speaker: Shawn Esser
3:20 p.m. – 3:35 p.m.

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Scaling the Optical Future: Technologies Enabling Scale-Up, Scale-Out, and Scale-Across AI Infrastructure
Speaker: Dr. Julie Sheridan Eng
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

Co-Packaged Optics: From Industry Promise to Reality
Speaker: Justin Abbott
11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Fireside Chat on the Increasing Role of Photonics in Next-Generation AI/ML Interconnects
Speaker: Dr. Giovanni Barbarossa
1:00 p.m. – 1:55 p.m.

Panel: Realistic Check of AI Interconnect Scaling Solutions for the Post-1.6T Era
Panelist: Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Scaling Ground Station Connectivity for Satellite Constellations
Speaker: Jessica Wang
10:20 a.m. – 10:35 a.m.

ECOC CONFERENCE

Sunday, September 20, 2026

Workshop: “Light Sources for Next-Generation Optical Communication Systems for AI Datacenters”
Organizer: Dr. Wilfried Maineult
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Workshop: “Hybrid Solutions for Very High Speed PON – the best (or worst) of coherent and IMDD worlds”
Speaker: Dr. Noriaki Kaneda
2:45 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Workshop: “Can Fast Narrow Channels Keep Rising Without Limit or Will Slow and Wide Become the Winner?”
Speaker: Dr. Chris Kocot
4:30 p.m. – 4:42 p.m.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Poster Presentation: “PAM4 448 Gb/s per Lane InP MZM-SOA Array PIC for Next-Generation CPO”
Speaker: Dr. Anna Tatarczak
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Public Presentation: “2.3 Tbit/s Backside-Emitting 1060 nm VCSEL Array on Silicon Interposer for CPO Applications”
Speaker: Dr. Marc Ganzhorn
5:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.

Thursday, September 24, 2026

Technical Session: “Novel Modulators: Discrete Photonic Devices and Technologies”
Chair: Dr. Wilfried Maineult
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Visitors to ECOC 2026 can experience Coherent’s latest optical networking technologies and meet with company experts at Stand 2100, Hall 2, at FYCMA – Trade Fair & Congress Center in Málaga, September 21-23, to explore the demonstrations and discuss optical connectivity and break-through technologies.

For more information, visit www.coherent.com.

About Coherent 
Coherent is the global photonics leader. We harness photons to drive innovation. Industry leaders in the datacenter, communications, and industrial markets rely on Coherent’s world-leading technology to fuel their own innovation and growth. Founded in 1971 and operating in more than 20 countries, Coherent brings the industry’s broadest, deepest technology stack; unmatched supply chain resilience; and global scale to help its customers solve their toughest technology challenges.

Media Contact:
innovations@coherent.com 

TORONTO, Sept. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DPM Metals Inc. (TSX: DPM, ASX: DPM) (ARBN: 689370894) (“DPM” or “the Company”) is pleased to report results from delineation drilling at the Brevene Porphyry South high-grade, gold-copper discovery, located in the southeastern part of the Company’s Brevene exploration licence and contiguous with the Chelopech mine concession.

Highlights include:

• New significant drillhole intercepts:
  • EX_BRES_555_02A: An additional 679 metres have been drilled and assayed for this previously reported hole, with final results extending the mineralization intercept to 716.60 metres grading 3.30 g/t AuEq, comprising of 1.63 g/t Au, 1.58% Cu and 17.09 g/t Mo from 1,357 metres downhole, including 138.60 metres grading 5.71 g/t AuEq, comprising of 2.83 g/t Au, 2.72% Cu and 9.99 g/t Mo from 1,935 metres downhole.
  • EX_BRESPO_03: An additional 341 metres have been drilled and assayed for this previously reported hole, with final results extending the mineralized intercept to 1,054 metres grading 2.49 g/t AuEq, comprising of 1.20 g/t Au, 1.20% Cu and 43.46 g/t Mo from 1,172 metres downhole, including 465 metres grading 3.02 g/t AuEq, comprising of 1.49 g/t Au, 1.44% Cu and 20.70 g/t Mo from 1,487 metres downhole.
  • EX_BRESPO_03A: 707 metres grading 1.08 g/t AuEq, comprising of 0.56 g/t Au, 0.48% Cu and 40.18 g/t Mo from 1,175 metres downhole
  • EX_BRESPO_05: 328 metres grading 3.28 g/t AuEq, comprising of 1.97 g/t Au, 1.24% Cu and 4.82 g/t Mo from 1,176 metres (hole ongoing)
  • EX_BRESPO_06: 540 metres grading 1.31 g/t AuEq, comprising of 0.69 g/t Au, 0.57% Cu and 32.93 g/t Mo from 1,143 metres downhole
  • EX_BRESPO_07: 142 metres grading 1.42 g/t AuEq, comprising of 0.72 g/t Au, 0.65% Cu and 29.60 g/t Mo from 1,455 metres downhole (hole ongoing)

EX_BRESPO_250_01: 98 metres grading 0.78 g/t AuEq, comprising of 0.37 g/t Au, 0.38% Cu and 38.49 g/t Mo from 1,310 metres downhole (hole ongoing)

^{See Table 1 and associated footnotes for full results from drilling and for details on the gold equivalent calculation. Refer to the news release issued June 3, 2026, available on our website, for more information regarding previously reported results for the Brevene Porphyry South prospect.}

• Potential to extend mineralization in multiple directions: Drilling has confirmed a large potassic alteration envelope exceeding 500 metres by 500 metres and more than 1,000 metres in vertical extent, with mineralization extending onto the central to northwestern boundary of the Chelopech mine concession. The system remains open to the north, south, west, and at depth, where it is interpreted to plunge southwest.
• Pursuing large-scale development option: Up to 15,000 metres of additional drilling from the Chelopech mine concession is planned through year-end 2026, followed by continued delineation through 2027. In parallel, the Company is advancing permitting activities to convert the Brevene exploration licence to a mining concession under Bulgaria’s well-defined permitting framework.
• Encouraging metallurgical testwork results: Preliminary metallurgical testwork indicates that Brevene Porphyry South mineralization is amenable to conventional rougher-cleaner flotation, with open-cycle tests producing copper-gold concentrates at grades ranging between 10% to 25% for copper and 12 g/t to 20 g/t gold.
• Adjacent to existing mining operations: The Brevene Porphyry South target benefits from its location within an established mining district where DPM has over two decades of operating experience and an existing social licence. This substantially derisks future development and positions Brevene Porphyry South as a Tier One growth opportunity for the Company.

“Brevene Porphyry South continues to demonstrate exceptional scale and grade as our drilling program advances to unlock substantial value for our shareholders as we advance this significant discovery,” said David Rae, President and Chief Executive Officer of DPM Metals.

“In just three months, our exploration team has delivered exceptional drill intercepts in excess of 710 metres with high copper-gold grades considering the porphyry-style mineralization. These new results confirm that the high-grade porphyry system extends onto the Chelopech mine concession, with multiple holes currently advancing through visible mineralization, demonstrating the potential to further extend mineralization.

“With up to eight drill rigs dedicated to the Brevene Porphyry South target and an additional 15,000 metres of additional drilling planned through year-end, we are aggressively delineating a discovery that we believe will transform the Chelopech camp into a Tier One asset.”

Brevene Porphyry South drilling progress

The Company continues to systematically advance its exploration program at the Brevene Porphyry South target, with seven surface and two underground rigs currently focused on delineating the target (Figure 1).

The latest results confirm the vertical and lateral continuity of the porphyry-style mineralization and indicate a northwestward extension of the potassic alteration envelope onto the Chelopech mine concession (Figure 2). This expanded alteration footprint highlights the size and scale of the prospect, which continues to expand as drilling progresses.

Drillhole EX_BRES_555_02A extended the previously reported interval and returned 716.60 metres grading 3.30 g/t AuEq (1.63 g/t Au, 1.58% Cu and 17.09 g/t Mo; see Table 1) from 1,357 to 2073.60 metres downhole, including an exceptionally higher-grade interval of 138.60 metres grading 5.71 g/t AuEq (2.83 g/t Au, 2.72% Cu and 9.99 g/t Mo) from 1,935 metres to the end of hole. The results confirmed the lateral extent of the gold-copper mineralization across the porphyry system (Figure 3). The drillhole is characterized by magnetite-chlorite-sericite alteration overprinting earlier potassic alteration, with anhydrite veining and quartz-chalcopyrite-pyrite-magnetite sheeted veins and stockwork.

Drillhole EX_BRESPO_03 also extended the previously reported interval to 1,054 metres at an average grade of 2.49 g/t AuEq (1.20 g/t Au, 1.20% Cu and 43.46 g/t Mo) from 1,172 to 2,226 metres downhole (Figure 4). The results demonstrate the significant vertical extent (over 1,000 metres) of Au-Cu mineralization within the Brevene Porphyry South system. The mineralization is hosted by a strongly altered porphyritic intrusion, where magnetite-chlorite-sericite alteration overprints earlier potassic alteration, and characterized by quartz-dominated stockwork and sheeted veins, locally with silica flooding, hosting abundant chalcopyrite-pyrite mineralization. Notably, this hole showed an increase in molybdenum content at depth, with grades in the final 200 metres of core frequently returning assays above 100 g/t Mo.

Both drillholes EX_BRES_555_02A and EX_BRESPO_03 were stopped due to technical limitations and both terminated in mineralization, which remains open at depth (Figure 5). The deeper extent of the Brevene Porphyry South system will be further tested in the future.

Building on the results of the ongoing drilling program, drill hole EX_BRESPO_03A was designed to test the northeast extent of the Brevene Porphyry South target and is located between EX_BRESPO_03 and EX_BRES_01A. Assay results from this drillhole returned a wide interval grading 707 metres of 1.08 g/t AuEq (0.56 g/t Au, 0.48% Cu and 40.18 g/t Mo) from 1,175 metres downhole. Molybdenum concentration increases eastward with grades reaching up to 100 g/t Mo in the final 200 metres of the drillhole and continues beyond the gold-copper mineralization.

Drillhole EX_BRESPO_05 is currently in progress and has intersected strong magnetite-chlorite-sericite and potassic alteration, where the latter becomes more abundant as the hole advances. Current results returned 328 metres at 3.28 g/t AuEq (1.97 g/t Au, 1.24% Cu and 4.82 g/t Mo) from 1,176 metres downhole and the hole continues in significant visible mineralization.

An important revelation is the extension of the porphyry system northward onto the Chelopech mine concession which was confirmed by drillhole EX_BRESPO_06. The intersected porphyry mineralization is less intense compared to the nearby holes, and as of the date of this release, the drillhole returned 540 metres at 1.31 g/t AuEq (0.69 g/t Au, 0.57% Cu and 32.93 g/t Mo) from 1,143 metres downhole.

EX_BRESPO_07 is in progress from a drill position southwest of the interpreted mineralization. Widespread phyllic alteration was observed in the upper parts of the drillhole, transitioning to magnetite-chlorite-sericite alteration, which was observed within intrusive phases and metamorphic rocks. Drilling is currently advancing through potassic-altered diorite and has so far returned an interval of peripheral mineralization of 142 metres grading 1.42 g/t AuEq, comprising 0.72 g/t Au, 0.65% Cu and 29.60 g/t Mo from 1,455 metres downhole.

Drillhole EX_BRESPO_08 is currently being drilled along the southern flank of the Brevene Porphyry South target to test the potential extension of mineralization in this direction. After passing a section with weakly potassic altered gneiss, the hole entered a diorite with a high content of chalcopyrite hosted in a quartz-magnetite stockwork and disseminations.

Drillholes EX_BRESPO_09 and EX_BRESPO_10 were designed to test the extent of the mineralized system toward southwest and northeast, respectively. At the time of this news release, both drillholes were ongoing and had not yet reached their target depths.

Drillhole EX_BRESPO_250_01 is being drilled from an underground position to test the potential extension of porphyry mineralization onto the Chelopech mine concession and its linkages with shallow seated, high-sulphidation mineralization. Initially the hole intersected massive high-sulphidation type mineralization and then passed into widespread deep-seated phyllic alteration, followed by magnetite-chlorite-sericite alteration with chalcopyrite mineralization and quartz stockwork, with increasing intensity. At the time of this release, the drillhole returned 98 metres at 0.78 g/t AuEq (0.37 g/t Au, 0.38% Cu and 38.49 g/t Mo) from 1,310 metres downhole and remains in progress.

Elsewhere, the results from EX_BRESPO_04A, which targeted the eastern flank of the prospect did not return any significant intervals. The current geological interpretation suggests the Brevene Porphyry South system is bounded to the northeast and southwest by inferred northwest-trending faults, which controlled development of a sedimentary basin, as well as acting as conduits for emplacement of a porphyritic intrusion (see Figure 3). This structural orientation is consistent with one of the major regional trends within the Apuseni-Banat-Timok-Srednogorie metallogenic belt.

Ground magnetic surveying and updated three-dimensional magnetic models are being used to guide the drilling program. The resulting high-magnetic anomaly correlates with the high-grade Au-Cu potassic core of the porphyry system (Figure 6).

Table 1. Drill intercepts from exploration drilling at the Brevene Porphyry South target

HOLEID	EAST	NORTH	RL	AZ	DIP	FROM	TO	LENGTH	AuEq	Au	Cu	Mo
						(m)	(m)	(m)	(g/t)	(g/t)	(%)	g/t
EX_BRES_555_02A*	6639	30079	558	170	-60	1357	2073.6	716.6	3.30	1.63	1.58	17.09
including						1643	1929	286	3.54	1.80	1.64	12.41
including						1935	2073.6	138.6	5.71	2.83	2.72	9.99
EX_BRES_555_02B	6639	30079	558			hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_03*	7192	28742	682	310	-72	1172	2226	1054	2.49	1.20	1.20	43.46
including						1487	1952	465	3.02	1.49	1.44	20.70
EX_BRESPO_04A	8037	29951	704	250	-58	no significant intervals
EX_BRESPO_03A	7192	28743	682	310	-72	1175	1882	707	1.08	0.56	0.48	40.18
including						1191	1202	11	1.51	0.99	0.49	14.49
including						1252	1270	18	2.04	1.22	0.78	9.05
including						1284	1324	40	1.66	0.81	0.81	10.25
EX_BRESPO_03B	7192	28743	682			hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_05	6566	28819	689	54	-80	1176	1504	328	3.28	1.97	1.24	4.82
						hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_06	6558	28823	689	350	-77	1143	1683	540	1.31	0.69	0.57	32.93
including						1313	1325	12	2.14	1.38	0.70	25.33
including						1355	1413	58	2.11	1.13	0.92	18.75
including						1445	1481	36	2.14	1.49	0.61	17.53
including						1657	1683	26	2.35	1.10	1.17	23.26
EX_BRESPO_06A	6558	28823	689	20	-73	hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_07	6356	28433	679	14	-78	1455	1597	142	1.42	0.72	0.65	29.60
including						1553	1597	44	2.49	1.32	1.10	11.35
						hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_08	7184	28741	682	300	-75	hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_09	6313	27982	657	30	-61	hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_10	7432	30285	730	233	-75	hole ongoing
EX_BRESPO_250_01	5756	29833	250	124	-60	1310	1408	98	0.78	0.37	0.38	38.49
						hole ongoing

^{1) Coordinates are reported in the Chelopech mine-grid.
2) AuEq is calculated using the following formula: Au g/t + 1.056 x Cu% + Mo g/t * 0.00043, based on a gold price of US$2,500 per ounce, a copper price of US$3.85 per pound and a molybdenum price of US$15 per pound. The calculation assumes metallurgical recoveries of 90% for all metals and is based on testing of other porphyry mineralization styles at the Chelopech Camp.
3) Significant intercepts are reported using a minimum downhole width of 20 metres, a maximum internal dilution of 10 metres at a 0.7 g/t AuEq cut-off, whilst including intervals are reported using a minimum downhole width of 10 metres, a maximum internal dilution of 5 metres at a 1.5 g/t AuEq cut-off. No upper cuts were applied.
4) Daughter holes identified with “A” (e.g., EX_BRESPO_03A) are navigational holes with collar coordinates as of the parent hole.
5) Holes marked with (*) were partially reported in the Company`s news release from June 3, 2026, available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and the Company’s website.
6) For holes identified as “in progress,” reported intervals reflect assay results received as of September 20, 2026. Drilling and/or assay results for the remaining portions of these holes are pending.
7) Reported intercepts are downhole lengths. True widths have not been determined.}

Preliminary metallurgical testwork results

Metallurgical testing of three Brevene Porphyry South composite samples is ongoing on three representative composite samples at the SLR Consulting laboratory in the United Kingdom. Table 2 presents the head-assay values for the three selected composite samples, that represent the different Cu-Au-Mo mineralization styles at the Brevene Porphyry South target.  

Table 2. Geologic description and head assays

Met composite sample ID	Geological Description	Cu (%)	Au (g/t)	Mo (g/t)
MET_BSP26_01	Potassic alteration with chlorite-anhydrite overprint with hematite-magnetite, Pyrite>chalcopyrite	0.77	0.92	19.70
MET_BSP26_02	Potassic alteration with strong silica flooding, dominant vein-hosted chalcopyrite-pyrite	2.08	1.67	22.85
MET_BSP26_03	Potassic alteration with phyllic and strong anhydrite overprint; chalcopyrite-pyrite-molybdenite disseminations and veins	1.34	0.76	195.50

Rougher grind-size optimization tests were carried out at P₈₀ grind sizes of 75 µm, 106 µm and 125 µm. The rougher grade-recovery results indicated that the optimum grind size for copper, gold and molybdenum was P₈₀ 75 µm. Open-cycle cleaner tests were carried out on each of the metallurgical composites at the optimum primary grind size of P₈₀ 75 µm, using a promoter and 3-stage cleaning (FCT1). The conditions for FCT2 was completed at an elevated cleaner pH of 10.0–10.5, while FCT3 included regrinding of the combined rougher concentrate to P80 25 µm. A summary of the selected rougher stage and third-stage cleaner concentrate testwork results are presented in table 3 below.

Table 3. Preliminary results of selected rougher and open cycle cleaner tests

Met composite sample ID	Test Stage	Mass Pull %	Product / Concentrate Assay			Metal Distribution, %
			Cu %	Mo %	Au g/t	Cu	Mo	Au
MET_BSP26_01	Rougher – FT1	17.4	4.1	–	5.5	97.0	–	89.1
	Cleaner – FCT1	7.5	8.7	–	11.9	88.1	–	85.0
	Cleaner – FCT2	7.7	8.3	–	Pending	90.0	–	Pending
	Cleaner – FCT3	6.5	10.0	–	Pending	90.2	–	Pending
MET_BSP26_02	Rougher – FT1	16.4	12.3	–	10.1	97.9	–	89.0
	Cleaner – FCT1	8.0	21.5	–	20.6	85.7	–	83.9
	Cleaner – FCT2	8.7	20.2	–	Pending	87.0	–	Pending
MET_BSP26_03	Rougher – FT1	12.1	10.3	0.14	5.6	98.2	88.7	86.0
	Cleaner – FCT1	4.6	25.0	0.4	15.3	90.5	84.1	80.6

^{1) “-” indicates not assayed / not applicable.
2) “Pending” indicates assay results are pending.}

Based on this early stage of testwork, the results indicate that Brevene Porphyry South mineralization is amenable to conventional rougher-cleaner flotation at relatively standard grind sizes. Preliminary cleaner testwork has produced Cu-Au concentrate grades ranging from 10.0% to 25.0% Cu and approximately 12 g/t to 20 g/t Au.

Detailed multi-element analyses of the cleaner-concentrate products are pending. However, exploration assay data indicate that deleterious elements, such as arsenic, occur at trace levels in all three composites and are not currently expected to reach penalty thresholds in the final concentrates.

The remainder of the current testwork program will focus on reagent optimization and improving the flotation selectivity of chalcopyrite over pyrite, particularly for MET_BSP26_01. The preliminary molybdenum response from MET_BSP26_03 is encouraging, and future testwork will evaluate the potential to produce a separate molybdenum concentrate.

Next Steps

The Company remains highly encouraged by these results, which further support the presence of a significant porphyry system southeast of the Chelopech mine, with drilling to date indicating elevated gold and copper grades relative to those typically associated with porphyry-style mineralization.

The latest drilling extends mineralization onto the Chelopech mine concession, further enhancing its potential to support future mine-life extension given the target’s proximity to existing infrastructure. Based on current data and geological interpretation, the mineralized system remains open to the north, south and west and is open at depth, where it is interpreted to plunge slightly to the southwest.

Drilling activities within the Brevene exploration licence are planned to continue until the end of September, at which point the exploration licence period concludes. The Company will shift drilling to the existing Chelopech mine concession, where the latest results have confirmed the Brevene Porphyry South target extends north onto the concession. Up to eight high-capacity drill rigs will be dedicated to the Brevene Porphyry South target, with approximately 15,000 additional metres of drilling is planned through the end of 2026. This expanded program is focused on delineating the northern and western extensions of the porphyry system, as well as testing the depth potential, where mineralization remains open. Further delineation drilling will continue in 2027, to support the Company’s internal Mineral Resource estimates and technical evaluations.

In addition, scout drilling is also continuing on the Chelopech mine concession, with two underground drill rigs targeting additional telescoped high-sulphidation mineralization similar to the Wedge Zone, which remains a high-priority for the Company given the Wedge Zone’s life of mine and near-term production potential within the Chelopech mining camp. Refer to the Company’s news release dated May 20, 2026, for additional information regarding the Wedge Zone Deep discovery.

In parallel with the drilling program, the Company continues to advance activities in support of converting the Brevene exploration licence to a mining concession. In late August, the final geology report, which includes technical and economic assessment, was submitted to the Ministry of Energy, with regulatory review ongoing.

The key milestones in this regulatory process include recognition of a Commercial Discovery; submission of a mining concession application; environmental and other permitting requirements; and ultimately, granting of a concession contract, all of which is subject to regulatory review and approval. As the Company advances through this regulatory process, DPM’s near-term exploration updates regarding the Chelopech camp will be focused on results from within the mine concession area, with further Brevene exploration results to resume once the regulatory milestones are achieved.

Figure 1. Broad plan view of the Chelopech area showing deep drill intercepts below -200 mRL, including all reported holes at the Brevene Porphyry South in bold, the interpreted footprint of mineralization as well as the projected silica alteration envelope associated with the high-sulphidation mineralization type. The projected extent of porphyry related phyllic and potassic alteration zones is estimated from drill core logging and geochemical indicators, including elevated Mo, paragonitic muscovite and high Zr/Ti ratios in the phyllic zone, and elevated K/Al and/or magnetite in the potassic zone.

Figure 2. Detailed plan view of the Brevene Porphyry South prospect showing all drillhole intercepts and the interpreted mineralization footprint below -200 mRL, together with the projected silica alteration envelope associated with the high-sulphidation mineralization type.

Figure 3. Northwest-southeast long section (6000 E, 500 metres thick) showing the location of the Brevene Porphyry South intercepts as well as the Wedge Zone Deep (“WZD”) prospect, the existing high-grade domains and mine infrastructure.

Figure 4. Northeast-southwest cross section (6770, 500 metres thick) showing the location of the Brevene Porphyry South intercepts as well as a projection of the existing high-grade domains and mine infrastructure, located approximately one kilometre northwest from the target.

Figure 5. Images showing (a) the core photos from hole EX_BRES_555_02A between 1,978.20 m to 1,991.10 m downhole depth, (b) close-up views of porphyry style of mineralization within the interval. (Cpy – chalcopyrite, Py – pyrite, Chl – chlorite; Mt – magnetite)

Figure 6. Northeast-southwest cross section displaying existing constrained 3D magnetic inversion model on the top of the geology interpretation at the Brevene Porphyry South target.

Sampling, Analysis and QAQC of Exploration Drill Core Samples

Most surface exploration diamond drill holes are collared with PQ size, continued with HQ, and are sometimes finished with NQ and BQ diameters. Underground exploration diamond drill holes are collared with HQ size, continued and finished with NQ, in isolated cases due to technical reasons with BQ. Triple tube core barrels and short runs are used whenever possible to improve recovery. Directional drilling techniques were utilized to facilitate target testing where appropriate. Within competent rock formations, a navigational curve (“NAVI curve”) was established and multiple daughter holes were branched from the same parent trajectory prior to completing the mother hole to its final depth. This method enabled efficient testing of multiple target positions from a single drill platform while improving drilling efficiency.

All drill core is cut lengthwise into two halves using a diamond saw; one half is sampled for assaying, and the other half is retained in core trays. The common length for sample intervals is two meters within mineralized zones, except drillholes EX_BRESPO_03 and EX_BRES_555_02A, where PQ, HQ and NQ diameter are sampled at one meter length. Weights of drill core samples range from three to eight kilograms, depending on the size of core, rock type, and recovery. A numbered tag is placed into each sample bag, and the samples are grouped into batches for laboratory submissions.

Drill core samples are shipped to the Company’s own exploration laboratory in Bor, Serbia, which is managed by SGS Minerals (“SGS”). SGS is independent of the Company. Quality control samples, comprising certified reference materials, blanks, and field duplicates, are inserted into each batch of samples and locations for crushed duplicates and pulp replicates are specified. All drill core and quality control samples are tabulated on sample submission forms that specify sample preparation procedures and codes for analytical methods. For internal quality control, the laboratory includes its own quality control samples comprising certified reference materials, blanks and pulp duplicates. All quality assurance and quality control (“QAQC”) monitoring data are reviewed and signed off by an independent QAQC geologist. Chain of custody records are maintained from sample shipments to the laboratory until analyses are completed and remaining sample materials are returned to the Company. The chain of custody is transferred from the Company to SGS at the laboratory door.

At the SGS Bor laboratory, the submitted drill core samples are dried at 105°C for a minimum of 12 hours and then jaw crushed to about 80% passing 4 millimetres. Sample preparation duplicates are created by riffle splitting crushed samples on a 1 in 20 basis. Larger samples are riffle-split prior to pulverizing, whereas smaller samples are pulverized entirely. Pulverizing specifications are 90% passing 75 microns. Gold analyses are done using a conventional 50-gram fire assay and atomic absorption spectrometry (“AAS”) finish. Multi-element analyses for 49 elements, including Ag, Cu, Mo, As, Bi, Pb, Sb, and Zn, are done using a four-acid digestion and an ICP-MS finish. Samples returning over 10 ppm for Ag and 1% for Cu, Pb and Zn are re-analyzed using high grade methods with AAS. Sulphur is analyzed using an Eltra Analyzer equipped with an induction furnace.

Technical Information

Ross Overall, Director, Corporate Technical Services of the Company, who is a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101, and Stefan Metodiev, General Manager, Exploration Department have reviewed and approved the scientific and technical content of this news release. Mr. Overall has verified the accuracy of the information presented in this disclosure. This included verification to ensure all results reported in the disclosure have passed QAQC protocols, drill core inspection and review of assay data with geology, alteration and mineralization logging data. No limitations were imposed on Mr. Overall’s verification process.

About DPM Metals Inc.

DPM Metals Inc. is a Canadian-based international gold mining company with operations and projects located in Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Ecuador. Our strategic objective is to become a mid-tier precious metals company, which is based on sustainable, responsible and efficient gold production from our portfolio, the development of quality assets, and maintaining a strong financial position to support growth in mineral reserves and production through disciplined strategic transactions. This strategy creates a platform for robust growth to deliver above-average returns for our shareholders. DPM trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: DPM) and the Australian Securities Exchange as a Foreign Exempt Listing (symbol: DPM).

For further information please contact:

Jennifer Cameron
Director, Investor Relations
Tel: (416) 219-6177
jcameron@dpmmetals.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward looking statements” or “forward looking information” (collectively, “Forward Looking Statements”) that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward Looking Statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “outlook”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or that state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms or similar expressions. The Forward Looking Statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the Company’s strategic objectives and associated returns to shareholders, including DPM’s strategy to become a mid-tier precious metals Company; anticipated future exploration drilling activities at Chelopech and the Brevene exploration licence area and the results thereof; anticipated permitting activities, including steps to be taken to convert the Brevene exploration licence into a mining concession, key milestones in the regulatory approval process, and the receipt of all applicable approvals in respect thereof. Forward Looking Statements are based on certain key assumptions and the opinions and estimates of management and the QPs, as of the date such statements are made, and they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any other future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward Looking Statements. In addition to factors already discussed in this news release, such factors include, among others, fluctuations in metal prices and foreign exchange rates; risks arising from the current economic environment and the impact on operating costs and other financial metrics, including risks of recession; the speculative nature of mineral exploration, development and production, including changes in mineral production performance, exploitation and exploration results; changes in tax, tariff, and royalty regimes in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates, sells its concentrates. or which are otherwise applicable to the Company’s business, operations, or financial condition; possible inaccurate estimates relating to future production, operating costs and other costs for operations; possible variations in grade and recovery rates; inherent uncertainties in respect of conclusions of economic evaluations, economic studies and mine plans; risks related to the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Company’s expectations, that quantities or grades of reserves will be diminished, and that resources may not be converted to reserves; risks related to the financial results of operations, changes in interest rates, and the Company’s ability to finance its operations; the impact of global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future cash flows; uncertainties inherent with conducting business in foreign jurisdictions where corruption, civil unrest, political instability and uncertainties with the rule of law may impact the Company’s activities; the effects of international economic and trade sanctions; accidents, labour disputes and other risks inherent to the mining industry; failure to achieve certain cost savings; risks related to the Company’s ability to manage environmental and social matters; risks related to climate change, including extreme weather events, resource shortages, emerging policies and increased regulations relating to related to greenhouse gas emission levels, energy efficiency and reporting of risks; the commencement, continuation or escalation of geopolitical crises and armed conflicts, including Iran and the broader Middle East region, and their direct and indirect effects on the operations of DPM; opposition by social and non-governmental organizations to mining projects; uncertainties with respect to realizing the anticipated benefits from the development of the Company’s exploration and development projects; cyber-attacks and other cybersecurity risks; competition in the mining industry; claims or litigation; limitations on insurance coverage; changes in laws and regulations applicable to the Company and its business operations, and judicial interpretations thereof; the Company’s ability to successfully obtain all necessary permits and other approvals required to conduct its operations; employee relations, including unionized and non-union employees, and the Company’s ability to retain key personnel and attract other highly skilled employees; unanticipated title disputes; volatility in the price of the common shares of the Company; potential dilution to the common shares of the Company; damage to the Company’s reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Company’s handling of environmental matters or dealings with community groups, whether true or not; risks related to holding assets in foreign jurisdictions; as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in any other documents (including without limitation the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form) filed from time to time with the securities regulatory authorities in all provinces and territories of Canada and available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader has been cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors which may have been used. Although the Company 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 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. The Company’s Forward-Looking Statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date hereof. Unless required by securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update Forward Looking Statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on Forward Looking Statements.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0ffb38f3-d4ea-4e2b-9e0a-9ba7df9a6938
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Results support potential for differentiated clinical impact for patients suffering from chronic hives and advancement to Phase 2b/3 registration enabling study

• Primary endpoint and the key secondary endpoint were met with high statistical significance and CUE-221 demonstrated an overall favorable safety profile
• Clinically different efficacy profile observed relative to XOLAIR^® (omalizumab) highlights potential for a fundamental mechanism-based biological difference
• Cue Biopharma to host conference call on Monday, September 21, at 8:00 a.m. EDT

BOSTON, Sept. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cue Biopharma (Nasdaq: CUE), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company targeting transformative therapies for immune-mediated diseases, today announced positive topline results from the Phase 2 clinical trial of CUE-221 (UB-221) conducted in China by Genesis Life Sciences, a related company of Ascendant Health Limited (Ascendant). The trial enrolled 145 participants with moderate to severe chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a disease resulting in chronic hives, that remained inadequately controlled despite treatment with H1 antihistamines.

“We are excited to share these positive results which we believe establish CUE-221 as a potential best therapeutic option for patients suffering with chronic spontaneous urticaria,” said Shao-Lee Lin, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Cue Biopharma. “These findings reinforce our enthusiasm for the precision engineered, unique dual mechanism of action of CUE-221, reflecting science that is truly differentiated. Based on the strength of these data, we are working toward the rapid initiation of a Phase 2b/3 study in CSU and continuing to advance a planned Phase 2 study in food allergy. We thank the patients, investigators, and study staff, all of whom made these results possible. We look forward to presenting the complete data set including PK and IgE analyses from this 36-week study at an upcoming scientific meeting.”

Phase 2 CSU Study Topline Results
The Phase 2 multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo and active comparator-controlled study was conducted in China and included a 16-week treatment period with a 20-week follow-up period post-treatment. Patients were randomized in a 2:2:2:1:1 ratio across five treatment groups to either subcutaneously deliver CUE-221 at 4 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, or 1 mg/kg Q4W, or placebo Q4W, or omalizumab 300 mg Q4W. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved HSS7=0 at week 12. A key secondary endpoint assessed complete response, defined as the proportion of patients who achieved UAS7=0 at week 12. The study was designed to test superiority over placebo. Omalizumab was included to enable comparative efficacy without planned statistical testing.

The primary endpoint of percentage of patients with HSS7=0 at week 12 was dose-responsive and met at all dose levels. The key secondary endpoint of percentage of patients with UAS7=0 at week 12 was dose responsive and met statistical significance at the 4 mg/kg highest dose level.

Primary Endpoint of HSS7=0 at Week 12
	CUE-221 (Q4W)			Placebo Q4W	Omalizumab Q4W
	4 mg/kg (N=35)	2 mg/kg (N=36)	1 mg/kg (N=37)	(N=18)	300 mg (N=17)
Complete Resolution of Hives (HSS7=0)	54%	53%	43%	11%	41%
95% Confidence Interval	(37%, 71%)	(36%, 70%)	(27%, 61%)	(1%, 35%)	(18%, 67%)
P-values (vs placebo)	p < 0.005	p < 0.005	p < 0.05	NA	Not Tested

P-values based on Fisher’s exact test; Clopper-Pearson 95% confidence interval

Key Secondary Endpoint of UAS7=0 at Week 12
	CUE-221 (Q4W)			Placebo Q4W	Omalizumab Q4W
	4 mg/kg (N=35)	2 mg/kg (N=36)	1 mg/kg (N=37)	N=18	300 mg (N=17)
Complete Response (UAS7=0)	46% *	39%	38%	11%	29%
95% Confidence Interval	(29%, 63%)	(23%, 57%)	(23%, 55%)	(1%, 35%)	(10%, 56%)

* p<0.05 P-values based on Fisher’s exact test; Clopper-Pearson 95% confidence interval

The percentage of participants who achieved HSS7=0 further increased beyond the Week 12 primary endpoint, peaking at Week 22 across all CUE-221 dose groups. After a last dose was administered for all groups at Week 16, clinically meaningful benefit was maintained for up to 12 weeks off treatment (through week 28) at the 4 mg/kg dose level. A higher rate of complete resolution of hives was observed for the 4 mg/kg dose group relative to the lower dose groups and placebo, and post hoc analysis at Week 28 demonstrated a statistically significant difference versus omalizumab (delta = 36%), supporting the premise of fundamental difference between CUE-221 and omalizumab with respect to impacts on disease biology.

Complete Resolutions of Hives at Primary Endpoint, Peak Effect, and 12 Weeks Off Drug
	CUE-221 (Q4W)			Placebo Q4W	Omalizumab Q4W	CUE 4mg/kg vs.Omalizumab
Time	4 mg/kg	2mg/kg	1 mg/kg	Placebo	300 mg	Δ in Percent
Week 12 Primary	54%	53%	43%	11%	41%	13%
Week 22 Peak Effect	69%	61%	57%	11%	41%	28%
Week 28 12 weeks off drug	60%	31%	24%	11%	24%	36% *

* p<0.05 P-values based on Fisher’s exact test

Demographics and baseline disease characteristics were generally well balanced across treatment groups. CUE-221 demonstrated a favorable safety profile. There were no treatment-related serious adverse events and no cases of hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis. Injection site reactions (ISR) were infrequent, only one ISR was > grade 1, and none led to study discontinuation.

“The results of the Phase 2 CUE-221 study in patients with CSU are particularly notable,” said Dale Umetsu, M.D., Ph.D., Clinical Professor of Medicine and former Chief of the Allergy and Immunology Division, Stanford University, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco and prior Global Lead for XOLAIR development. “First, the results after 12 weeks of treatment, after three doses, appear to indicate that CUE-221 was better than XOLAIR for CSU at all dose levels tested. Moreover, there was persistent improvement with the 4 mg/kg dose at week 28, which was 12 weeks off treatment, significantly better than that off of standard XOLAIR dosing. Finally, the safety data analyzed so far, show no major safety issues, which is not unexpected from an anti-IgE mAb.”

Dr. Umetsu added, “These results suggest that CUE-221, like XOLAIR is designed to prevent IgE from binding to FceR1 but unlike XOLAIR, allows IgE to bind to CD23, may represent a critical advancement over XOLAIR. The results support that the effects of CUE-221 on IgE function could result in substantial efficacy in CSU that persists for several months, even after dosing ends. Since XOLAIR has represented the clear standard for all other CSU therapies, the possibility that CUE-221 may represent a clear improvement above that of XOLAIR is most impressive. That improvement in efficacy may be directly relevant for food allergy, another area where XOLAIR currently prevails as the standard-of-care.“

“I am very pleased to see these outstanding results from the UB-221 Phase 2 CSU trial,” said Tse-Wen Chang, Ph.D., innovator of XOLAIR as well as UB-221 and an international expert in IgE biology. “The UB-221 data provide clear clinical evidence validating the molecule’s design to not only directly neutralize IgE, but also to create a next-generation approach to eliminate the production of new IgE over time. This fundamental difference in biological mechanism that is now clinically evident cannot be reached by giving higher doses or more potent IgE neutralization. Having invented several novel IgE-targeting molecules that ultimately led to the creation of UB-221, I am encouraged by these emerging data and the potential for this approach to offer a meaningfully different path toward a functional treatment for IgE-mediated diseases.”

Webcast and Conference Call
Cue Biopharma will host a conference call and webcast on Monday, September 21 at 8:00 a.m. EDT to present the results. The event will be webcast live and can be accessed via the attached link below. https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/mjexxy37 

About Dale Umetsu, M.D., Ph.D.
Dale Umetsu, M.D., Ph.D., Former chief of the allergy immunology division and tenured professor of pediatrics at Stanford University, and Former Prince al Saud Professor of Pediatrics AT Harvard Medical School. Dr. Umetsu also led global development of XOLAIR and the approval of XOLAIR for CSU and food allergy while at Genentech. Currently, he serves as a clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco.

About Tse-Wen Chang, Ph.D.
Tse-Wen Chang, Ph.D., is a Taiwanese immunologist and pioneer in anti-IgE therapy. His early research into the immunoglobulin E (IgE) pathway and antibody-based therapeutics contributed to the development of omalizumab (XOLAIR), which is approved for the treatment of severe allergic asthma and severe chronic spontaneous urticaria. Dr. Chang is a cofounder of Tanox, a biopharmaceutical company focused on anti-IgE therapies for allergic diseases. He previously served as Dean of the College of Life Sciences at National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan and as Distinguished Research Fellow at the Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica.

About Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
CSU is a chronic inflammatory skin disease driven in part by type 2 inflammation, which causes sudden and debilitating hives and recurring itch. CSU is typically treated with H1 antihistamines, medicines that target H1 receptors on cells to control symptoms of itch and urticaria. However, the disease remains uncontrolled despite antihistamine treatment in many patients, some of whom are left with limited alternative treatment options. These individuals continue to experience symptoms that can be debilitating and significantly impact their quality of life.

About CUE-221
CUE-221 (Ascendant-221, UB-221) is a humanized anti-IgE IgG1 monoclonal antibody designed with a precision engineered dual mechanism of action. CUE-221 binds to IgE at sites that are distinct from the binding sites for other anti-IgE monoclonal antibodies. In doing so, it maintains the capacity of total IgE to bind the CD23 receptor at the surface of B cells, resulting in reduced IgE synthesis. Therefore, CUE-221 is a functionally distinct novel anti-IgE antibody designed to not only neutralize free IgE with high potency, but also prevents the synthesis of new IgE which could ultimately result in functional cure if IgE is eradicated. The CUE-221 Phase 2 clinical trial in CSU produced positive topline results and clinical evidence providing initial validation of the clinical potential of a precision engineered anti-IgE dual mechanism of action. The study also demonstrated fundamental biological differences compared to current therapies. Based on these data, we are planning to advance CUE-221 in a Phase 2b/3 study in chronic spontaneous urticaria and in a Phase 2 study in food allergy.

CUE-221 (UB-221) was innovated by Dr. Chang Tse Wen, a pioneer in the field of anti-IgE therapy, while serving as a Fellow of Academia Sinica. UB-221 was originally developed by United Biopharma (Holdings) Co., Ltd. (“United Biopharma”) with rights allocated between two of United Biopharma’s related companies, Genesis Life Sciences (“Genesis”) (China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, where Genesis continues development of the antibody under the name UB-221) and Ascendant Health Limited (“Ascendant”) (rest of world). Under an exclusive license agreement with Ascendant, Cue Biopharma obtained exclusive development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights in Ascendant’s rest of world territories.

About Cue Biopharma
Cue Biopharma (Nasdaq: CUE) is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing a portfolio of potentially transformative therapies designed to enable functional cures across immunological disorders. Its lead asset, CUE-221, is a novel anti-IgE antibody with a dual mechanism of action design, moving into Phase 2b/3 development for allergic diseases. In addition, Cue developed the Immuno-STAT^® platform which selectively targets disease-specific T cells in vivo without broad immune modulation. Its lead autoimmune candidate, CUE-401, has an investigational new drug application pending in the U.S. for a Phase 1 clinical trial. CUE-401 is designed to regulate inflammation and drive Treg-mediated tolerance. Cue is led by an experienced management team with deep expertise in identifying, acquiring, and advancing promising drug candidates.

About Ascendant Health Limited
Ascendant is a privately held biotechnology company committed to delivering transformative solutions to patients globally.

About Genesis Life Sciences
Genesis Life Sciences focuses on the innovative development of monoclonal antibody drugs. It is a biopharmaceutical company with a product line in late-stage clinical trials, specializing in the development of innovative monoclonal antibody drugs applicable to chronic infectious diseases, allergic diseases, and autoimmune diseases. Closely aligned with key national research projects and market demand, the company has introduced highly promising monoclonal antibody products, leveraging internal research capabilities and support from expert teams across various fields to accelerate the product launch and sales process. We care about human health and well-being, focus on unmet patient needs, and drive monoclonal antibody development through innovative thinking, ultimately sharing our results with partners and the public, striving to provide the best treatment for patients.
*XOLAIR^® is a registered trademark of Novartis AG.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those regarding the potential of CUE-221, including its potential future benefit to patients, the company’s plans with respect to CUE-221, including the initiation of a Phase 2b/3 clinical trial in CSU and a Phase 2 clinical trial in food allergy and the timing thereof, the company’s expectations regarding the presentation of full clinical data from the Phase 2 CUE-221 trial, the company’s growth, and the company’s business strategies, plans, and prospects.

Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “project,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “promise,” “potential” or other comparable terms, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding the company’s strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans, and objectives are forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the company’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the company’s ability to maintain and establish collaboration, licensing and other arrangements; the company’s limited operating history, limited cash and a history of losses; the company’s ability to achieve profitability; potential setbacks in the company’s research and development efforts for its current and future drug product candidates, including negative or inconclusive results from its preclinical studies or clinical trials or the company’s ability to replicate in later clinical trials positive results found in preclinical studies and early-stage clinical trials of its product candidates; serious and unexpected drug-related side effects or other safety issues experienced by participants in clinical trials; potential challenges associated with clinical trials conducted in China and the company’s access to, and acceptability of, the data therefrom; its ability to secure required U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) or other governmental approvals for its product candidates and the breadth of any approved indication; delays and changes in regulatory requirements, policy and guidelines including potential delays in submitting required regulatory applications to the FDA; the company’s reliance on licensors, collaborators, contract research organizations, suppliers and other business partners; the company’s ability to obtain adequate financing to fund its business operations in the future; the company’s ability to maintain and enforce necessary patent and other intellectual property protection; competitive factors; general economic and market conditions and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Risk Factors and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations sections of the company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequently filed Quarterly Report(s) on Form 10-Q. Any forward-looking statement made by the company in this press release is based only on information currently available to the company and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. 

Investor and Media Contact
Agnes Lee
Chief Investor Relations & Communications Officer
alee@cuebio.com

Marie Campinell
Senior Director, Corporate Communications

ir@cuebio.com
Cue Biopharma, Inc.

WUHU, China, Sept. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 2026 marks LEPAS’s “Year of Delivery.” Following its European debut during Milan Design Week in April this year, the LEPAS L8 is available for pre-order in the UK, Italy, Spain and other European markets, while LEPAS L6 and LEPAS L4 deliveries progress in Southeast Asia.

Growing Recognition Across Multiple Markets

LEPAS is gaining recognition across markets. In Indonesia, the LEPAS E4 EV (L4 EV) was named “Inspiring Long Range Electric SUV 2026” at the Indonesia Automotive Awards 2026. In the UK, automotive content creators praised the LEPAS L8 PHEV for its design, cabin quality and practicality.

During the Turin Auto Show in Italy, the LEPAS L6 won the “Best Interior Design Award ” in the City Car category. The jury stated: “The LEPAS L6 stands out for its spacious, refined and thoughtfully designed cabin. Generous passenger space, premium materials and flexible storage solutions create a comfortable and highly practical environment. Advanced technologies are integrated naturally throughout the interior, contributing to a cohesive and well-balanced overall experience.” In Spain, media described LEPAS as more than a means of transportation, combining comfort and lifestyle.

In Chile, automotive media assessed LEPAS across five dimensions — contextualized intelligence, simplified technology interaction, cabin experience, premium value and after-sales trust — and found its product approach suited to local needs. In Brazil, media also showed interest in its debut and upcoming activities.

The LEPAS L8 PHEV and LEPAS L6 EV have been shortlisted for the 2027 World Car of the Year.

Advancing Market Rollout and Customer Experience Worldwide

The LEPAS L8 PHEV is scheduled to launch across European markets from September to October. Dealer agreements have been signed in Italy, Spain, Romania and other countries, with vehicles arriving and sales and service networks taking shape.

Brand experience centers are also opening worldwide.

LEPAS’s global expansion is backed by Chery Auto’s global capabilities. As of August 2026, Chery Group had exported more than 7 million vehicles, becoming the first Chinese automaker to reach this milestone. That month, Chery Group also topped the UK monthly new-car brand chart ahead of Volkswagen, Ford, BMW and other automakers, becoming the first Chinese auto brand to achieve monthly market leadership in the UK. Chery Group’s strengths in R&D, manufacturing, supply chain and service support LEPAS’s global delivery and customer experience.

About LEPAS

LEPAS is Chery Auto’s Premium NEV brand, dedicated to creating elegant mobility experiences for users worldwide. Committed to becoming the Preferred Brand for Elegant Mobility Life, LEPAS brings together Leopard Aesthetics, Elegant Technology, and Exquisite Space – transforming elegance into a driving experience you can see, feel, and trust. Supported by a growing global dealer network of more than 500 sales and service outlets, LEPAS is expanding its international footprint through localized operations, delivering products and experiences tailored to users across global markets.

About Chery Auto

Founded in 1997, Chery Auto is a global automotive manufacturer specializing in vehicle development, intelligent technologies, and new energy solutions. The company operates in more than 130 countries and regions, supported by a strong international network of research, production, and strategic partnerships. Chery Auto has remained China’s No. 1 passenger vehicle exporter among Chinese brands for 23 consecutive years. Guided by its global philosophy of “In somewhere, For somewhere, Be somewhere,” Chery Auto is committed to advancing sustainable mobility through continuous innovation and global collaboration.

Media Contact

Company Name: LEPAS International

Contact Person: Vincy wang

E-mail: wangxi23@mychery.com

Company Official Website:https://lepasinternational.com/

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eab4d682-4e0f-4f70-ac1e-d884a2525843 

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/414b66ef-5916-4167-8726-4f05bdb0ccae 

STUTTGART, Germany, Sept. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Sigenergy Day Europe 2026, Sigenergy outlined the next phase of its growth beyond residential energy storage into C&I and utility-scale applications. The event brought together nearly 400 investors, EPC companies, industry experts, distributors and partners to discuss project delivery, system safety and the commercial value of storage.

The Weissach im Tal solar-plus-storage project shows how this strategy is already taking shape.

Alt: Participants at Sigenergy Day Europe 2026 review the Weissach im Tal project display

How the 20 MWh Weissach im Tal Project Was Delivered 

The Weissach im Tal project in Baden-Württemberg combines 11.6 MWp of solar generation with approximately 20 MWh of battery storage. Owned by DGS GmbH, developed by solar specialist Arausol, supported by European distributor Memodo, the project entered commercial operation in early August 2026. 

The system comprises 1,660 Sigenergy battery modules rated at 12 kWh each, 80 Sigen C&I PV inverters rated at 100 kW each, and two medium-voltage transformer stations with pre-installed low-voltage connections. It uses a decentralized SigenStack architecture.

Installation was completed in 20 days, followed by a two-hour commissioning process. Rather than concentrating storage in conventional containers, the modular units were installed beneath the PV mounting structures and close to the PV strings. This arrangement minimized the need for additional land, complex cabling, heavy equipment and extensive foundations. Integrating Sigenergy inverters, transformers and system management also reduced multi-vendor coordination.

In this configuration, DC coupling keeps the PV-to-battery energy path on the DC side, avoiding an intermediate AC conversion and removing the requirement for dedicated battery transformers, helping drive a 3%–4% uplift in overall energy yield.

A Portfolio for C&I and Utility-Scale Projects 

Sigenergy’s portfolio addresses different project architectures and scales, from modular, decentralized SigenStack deployments to centralized C&I and utility-scale applications. The upcoming SigenCube provides an integrated option for centralized C&I applications, while SigenTerra extends the portfolio to large-scale storage and solar-plus-storage projects.

SigenStack is Sigenergy’s modular BESS solution for commercial applications, designed to support flexible deployment across different site conditions. With 12 kWh battery modules, stackable installation and automatic device networking, it helps simplify site selection, system placement, installation and commissioning. Its compact footprint and pack-level safety management further support solar-plus-storage projects where space use, deployment flexibility and system safety are priorities.

The Utility Solar Inverter and SigenMVT support power conversion and medium-voltage grid connection. Sigen InSite provides integrated system monitoring and management across project assets. SigenAgent adds intelligent energy scheduling, using generation, load, electricity-price and equipment-status data to support operating decisions and improve coordination across the system.

About Sigenergy

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Shanghai, Sigenergy Technology Co., Ltd. (HKEX: 6656) is a technology company focused on renewable energy solutions. Its business spans photovoltaic generation, energy storage and electric vehicle charging for residential, commercial, industrial and utility-scale applications. 

Guided by its “AI in All” strategy, Sigenergy integrates artificial intelligence across its products and energy management systems to support safer, smarter and more efficient energy use. The company works with customers and partners in markets worldwide.

Media Contact

For media inquiries, please contact: Tracy Li
Sigenergy Technology Co., Ltd.
Email: tracy.li@sigenergy.com
Website: www.sigenergy.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d03e87ca-0b75-4a74-b5b4-670bdac70689

MAHIA, New Zealand, Sept. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today successfully launched the latest Earth-observation satellite to space for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) company, Synspective.

The ‘Owl By The Dozen’ mission launched from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand at 3:22pm NZST on September 19, 2026 and delivered the 12^th StriX satellite directly into an exact 572km low Earth orbit for Synspective’s Earth-monitoring constellation.

The launch marks Rocket Lab’s 96th Electron flight and its 17th launch of 2026, underscoring Electron’s unmatched operational cadence in commercial small-lift launch globally. This mission also extends Rocket Lab’s 100% mission success record across its multi-year launch partnership with Synspective.

Mission Highlights:

• Global Launch Leadership: With 17 launches completed so far in 2026, Electron continues to lead the global commercial small-lift sector in frequency and reliability.
• Pinpoint Orbital Accuracy: Electron’s Kick Stage placed the StriX satellite into its 572km orbit with pinpoint accuracy, maximizing on-orbit lifetime and supporting immediate integration of this latest satellite into Synspective’s constellation.
• Constellation Expansion: Rocket Lab has 15 additional dedicated Electron missions manifested through the end of the decade to complete Synspective’s commercial SAR constellation.

‘Owl By The Dozen’ launch images: click here

‘Owl By The Dozen’ launch broadcast: click here

Rocket Lab Media Contact
Murielle Baker
media@rocketlabusa.com

About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab (Nasdaq: RKLB) is an end-to-end space company delivering rockets, satellites, and spacecraft components for commercial, government, and defense missions. Driven by its industry-leading small-lift rockets Electron and HASTE and its upcoming reusable Neutron medium-lift rocket, Rocket Lab delivers reliable and responsive launch for the world’s most important missions from constellation deployment to missile defense. Rocket Lab’s satellites and components have powered more than 1,700 missions in Earth orbit, as well as deep-space exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Learn more at www.rocketlabcorp.com.

Forward Looking Statements 
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our launch and space systems operations, launch schedule and window, safe and repeatable access to space, Neutron development, operational expansion and business strategy, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “potential,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “could,” “would,” “project,” “plan,” “target,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the factors, risks and uncertainties included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of our website at  https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any such forward-looking statements represent management’s estimates as of the date of this press release. While we may elect to update such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we disclaim any obligation to do so, even if subsequent events cause our views to change.

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FortuneX Acquisition Corporation (NASDAQ: FXAC) (“FortuneX”), a special purpose acquisition company, and WT Realty Group Inc. (“WT Realty”), an integrated, technology-enabled real estate platform providing real estate brokerage and related transaction services, escrow services, lending and mortgage-related services, title and commercial real estate services, and technology-enabled solutions for real estate professionals and consumers, announced today that they have entered into a definitive business combination agreement (“BCA”).

Upon the closing of the transactions contemplated by the BCA, FortuneX will have domesticated from the Cayman Islands to Delaware and will become the public holding company, which is intended to be named FortuneX Realty Group Holdings Inc. (“PubCo”). FortuneX Merger Sub Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of FortuneX, will merge with and into WT Realty, with WT Realty surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of PubCo, and PubCo’s Class A common stock is expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. The BCA provides for aggregate merger consideration of 60,000,000 shares of PubCo common stock, implying an equity value of approximately $600,000,000 based on a reference price of $10.00 per share.

“We are thrilled to partner with the team at WT Realty,” said Daniel McCabe, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of FortuneX. “After an extensive search for a high-impact partner, we believe that WT Realty’s growing platform and experienced management team position the combined company well for long-term value creation.”

“We believe this proposed business combination marks a major milestone, and we are excited and confident about the opportunities ahead,” said Tiffany Xu, Chief Executive Officer and Chairwoman of WT Realty.

The proposed business combination is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, subject to, among other things, the approval of FortuneX’s shareholders, the approval of WT Realty’s stockholders, the effectiveness of the registration statement on Form S-4 to be filed with the SEC, the approval for listing of PubCo’s shares on the Nasdaq Stock Market, and other customary closing conditions. The description of the BCA contained herein is only a summary and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the BCA. Additional information will be provided in the Current Report on Form 8-K, to be filed by FortuneX with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which will be available at www.sec.gov. 

Advisors

Winston Taylor LLP is acting as legal counsel to WT Realty. Celine & Partners PLLC is acting as legal counsel to FortuneX.

About WT Realty Group Inc.

WT Realty Group Inc. is a Delaware corporation that operates and develops an integrated, technology-enabled real estate platform. Through its operating subsidiary, Wetrust Realty, and related entities, WT Realty provides real estate brokerage and related transaction services, escrow services, lending and mortgage-related services, title and commercial real estate services, and technology-enabled solutions for real estate professionals and consumers. For more information, please visit www.wetrustrealty.com.

About FortuneX Acquisition Corporation

FortuneX is a blank check company incorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted company for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. FortuneX’s securities are listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker symbol ‘FXAC.’ FortuneX is led by Daniel M. McCabe, the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. For more information, please visit FortuneX’s SEC filings available at www.sec.gov.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and “will,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the proposed business combination, the anticipated benefits of the proposed business combination, the anticipated timing of the closing, the ability of the parties to consummate the proposed business combination, the expected ownership and governance of PubCo following the closing of the BCA, the ability to obtain required shareholder, regulatory and Nasdaq approvals, the expected listing of PubCo on Nasdaq, the availability and terms of any transaction financing, and the expected future performance and operations of PubCo.

These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of FortuneX and WT Realty, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others: the risk that the proposed business combination may not be completed in a timely manner or at all; the failure to satisfy the conditions to consummation of the proposed business combination, including obtaining the required approvals of FortuneX shareholders and WT Realty stockholders, the effectiveness of the Registration Statement and Nasdaq approval; the level of redemptions by FortuneX shareholders; the ability to obtain any transaction financing on acceptable terms or at all; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to termination of the BCA; the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed business combination on WT Realty’s business relationships, operating results and business generally; risks that the proposed business combination disrupts current plans and operations of WT Realty; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against FortuneX, WT Realty or others following announcement of the proposed business combination; the ability of PubCo to meet Nasdaq listing standards following the closing; costs related to the proposed business combination; changes in applicable laws or regulations; and the possibility that FortuneX or WT Realty may be adversely affected by other economic, business or competitive factors.

Additional risks and uncertainties will be described in the Registration Statement and the proxy statement/prospectus and in FortuneX’s other filings with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Neither FortuneX nor WT Realty undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Additional Information About the Business Combination and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed business combination, FortuneX intends to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (as may be amended from time to time, the “Registration Statement”), which will include a proxy statement/prospectus of FortuneX. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, FortuneX will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials to its shareholders as of the record date established for voting on the proposed Business Combination. This press release is not a substitute for the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that FortuneX may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed business combination.

INVESTORS AND SECURITYHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO, AND ALL OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION, WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT FORTUNEX, WT REALTY AND THE PROPOSED BUSINESS COMBINATION.

Investors and securityholders will be able to obtain free copies of the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by FortuneX with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. The documents filed by FortuneX with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge upon written request to FortuneX Acquisition Corporation, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd Fl., New York, New York 10036.

Participants in the Solicitation

FortuneX, WT Realty, and their respective directors, executive officers and other members of management and employees may, under SEC rules, be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from FortuneX shareholders in connection with the proposed business combination. Information regarding FortuneX’s directors and executive officers is set forth in FortuneX’s filings with the SEC. Additional information regarding the persons who may be deemed participants in the solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the Registration Statement and the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials filed with the SEC when they become available. Investors and securityholders may obtain free copies of these documents as described above.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination. This press release shall also not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an applicable exemption therefrom.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

FortuneX Acquisition Corporation Media Contact:
Daniel M. McCabe
admin@fortunexacq.com 

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — COLLECTIVE METALS INC. (CSE: COMT | OTC: CLLMF | FSE: TO1) (the “Company” or “Collective Metals”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ram Kumar as Chief Executive Officer, Director and Corporate Secretary of the Company.

Mr. Kumar brings experience in corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions and capital markets. He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Panther Minerals Inc. and as a director of Troubadour Resources Inc. and Gold’n Futures Mineral Corp. Previously, he served as Director of Mergers and Acquisitions at Valsoft Corp. and held investment banking roles with BMO Capital Markets, Lazard, and DNA Capital in Montreal and New York. He began his career in private equity at Novacap. Mr. Kumar holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Finance from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University.

“I am pleased to join Collective Metals as Chief Executive Officer,” said Mr. Kumar. “My immediate focus will be to work with the board and our technical partners to assess the Company’s priorities and establish a clear path forward for its exploration portfolio. I also look forward to evaluating strategic opportunities that complement our existing assets and support long-term shareholder value.”

Mr. Kumar succeeds Christopher Huggins, who has resigned as Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company, effective immediately. The Company thanks Mr. Huggins for his dedication and contributions and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

About Collective Metals

Collective Metals Inc. (CSE: COMT | OTC: CLLMF | FSE: TO1) is a resource exploration company specializing in critical and precious metals exploration in North America.

The Company’s Rocas project comprises 4,002 hectares, located 75 kilometers southwest of the Key Lake Mine and Mill facilities along Highway 914, and approximately 72 kilometers south of the present-day margin of the Athabasca Basin. The Project hosts several uranium showings, including historical mineralized outcrop grab samples along approximately 900 metres of strike length, grading up to 0.5 wt.% U₃O₈¹.

Social Media

Twitter	@COMT_metals
LinkedIn	Collective Metals Inc
Facebook	Collective Metals Inc

ON BEHALF OF COLLECTIVE METALS INC.
Ram Kumar, Chief Executive Officer

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes “forward-looking information” under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the management changes. Such information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; the risk that the Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept the appointment; the loss of key personnel; and other risks common to the mining industry. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive.

The Company is an exploration stage company. Exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks, and may not result in the discovery of mineral deposits that can be mined profitably. The Company has no mineral reserves on any of its properties. Consequently, there can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liberty Gold Corp. (TSX: LGD; OTCQX: LGDTF) (“Liberty Gold” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that further to its news release dated September 8, 2026, the Company has filed a National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) technical report entitled “Technical Report and Feasibility Study for the Black Pine Project, Idaho, USA”, with an effective date of August 1, 2026, and dated September 18, 2026, on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Technical Report was prepared by the following team of industry experts:

Category	Name	Company
Mineral Reserve Estimate, Mining Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering	Todd Carstensen, RM-SME	AGP Mining Consultants Inc.
Heap Leach Operating Model	Brendan Fetter, P.E.	Forte Dynamics
Legacy Heap Leach Facility Resource Estimate	Don Hulse, RM-SME	Forte Dynamics
Metallurgy	Gary Simmons, MMSA	GL Simmons Consulting LLC.
Environmental, Permitting & Compliance	Kyle Brangers, CPG	GSI Environmental Inc.
Mineral Processing	Benjamin Bermudez, P.E.	M3 Engineering & Technology Corp.
Infrastructure, Financial Evaluations, & Study Lead Engineer, Hydrology and Hydrogeology	Matthew Sletten, P.E.	M3 Engineering & Technology Corp.
Heap Design & Closure	Nicholas Rocco, Ph.D., P.E.	NewFields Companies LLC.
Mineral Resource Estimate, Geology	Valerie Wilson, P.Geo.	SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd.

The Technical Report is available on the Company’s website at www.libertygold.ca.

ABOUT LIBERTY GOLD

Liberty Gold is a U.S.-focused gold company advancing Black Pine, its 100% owned oxide gold project in Idaho, located within the Great Basin, one of the world’s most productive and mining-friendly gold regions. Black Pine is a large-scale, past-producing, run-of-mine heap leachable gold deposit advancing through permitting toward a potential construction decision. The Company’s strategy is centered on advancing high-quality, long-life gold assets, with a clear focus on technical simplicity, strong environmental performance, project executability, collaborative permitting processes, and value creation. This reflects Liberty Gold’s commitment to the discipline of delivery. The Company is led by an experienced team with a track record of discovery, development, and delivering sustained long-term value.

For more information, visit libertygold.ca or contact:

Susie Bell, Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
Phone: 604-632-4677 or Toll Free 1-877-632-4677
info@libertygold.ca

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements or information concerning future financial or operating performance of Liberty Gold and its business, operations, properties and condition; planned de-risking activities at Liberty Gold’s mineral properties; expectations regarding the sufficiency of existing water rights to support the Project; plans regarding refining of gold and silver doré bars produced at the ADR plant; federal and state permitting timelines; future updates to the mineral resource, including potential resource growth and conversion of mineral resources to mineral reserves; completion and results of the DtM program, including the expected timing thereof, and expectations regarding the potential benefits of such program; the potential quantity, recoverability and/or grade of minerals; the potential size of a mineralized zone or potential expansion of mineralization; proposed exploration and development of Liberty Gold’s exploration property interests; expectations regarding dewatering requirements; the results of mineral resource estimates or mineral reserve estimates; the Company’s anticipated expenditures; the results and conclusions of the Feasibility Study, including projected mine life, production, recoveries, total cash costs, capital costs, AISC, cash flow, NPV, IRR and payback periods; gold price sensitivities; anticipated employment and community benefits and Black Pine’s ability to generate long-term value for shareholders and other stakeholders; execution-readiness; and potential completion of a construction decision and development of the Project.

Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “planned”, “expect”, “project”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intends”, “believe”, “potential”, and similar expressions, or describes a “goal”, or variation of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and is based upon a number of estimates and assumptions of management at the date the statements are made including, among others, assumptions about: future prices of gold and other metal prices; currency exchange rates and interest rates; favourable operating conditions; political stability; timely receipt of governmental or regulatory approvals, licenses and permits; obtaining timely renewals for existing licenses and permits; access to necessary financing; labour stability, stability of labour markets and market conditions in general; availability of drill rigs and other equipment; results or timing of any mineral resources, results or timing of any baseline studies, resource conversion, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources, and of any metallurgical testing completed to date; there being no significant disruptions affecting the development and operation of the Project; successful resolution of disputes; anticipated costs and expenditures; and general marketing, political, business and economic conditions. Many assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of Liberty Gold and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct.

Such forward-looking information, involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others: the interpretation of results and/or the reliance on technical information provided by third parties as related to the Company’s mineral property interests; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; current economic conditions; state and federal permitting processes, future prices of commodities; possible variations in grade or recovery rates; the costs and timing of the development of new deposits; failure of equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; the failure of contracted parties to perform; the timing and success of exploration activities generally; the timing or results of the publication of any mineral resources, mineral reserves or feasibility studies; delays in permitting; possible claims against the Company; labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals, financing, timing of the completion of exploration as well as those risk, uncertainties and other factors discussed in the Annual Information Form of the Company dated March 25, 2026, in the section entitled “Risk Factors”, available under Liberty Gold’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Although Liberty Gold has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual performance, achievements, actions, events, results or conditions to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause performance, achievements, actions, events, results or conditions not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and Liberty Gold 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 for material differences between actual results and previously disclosed material forward-looking information, or as otherwise required by law. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information 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 information or forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements and forward-looking information attributable to us is expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.

Note to United States Investors Concerning Estimates of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources

The information, including any information incorporated by reference, and disclosure documents of Liberty Gold that are filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities concerning mineral properties have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of United States securities laws.

Without limiting the foregoing, these documents use the terms “measured resources”, “indicated resources”, “inferred resources” and “mineral reserves”. These terms are Canadian mining terms as defined in, and required to be disclosed in accordance with, NI 43-101, which references the guidelines set out in the CIM Definition Standards, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended. However, these standards differ significantly from the mineral property disclosure requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in Regulation S-K Subpart 1300 (the “SEC Modernization Rules”) under the United States Securities Act of 1934, as amended. The Company does not file reports with the SEC and is not required to provide disclosure on its mineral properties under the SEC Modernization Rules and will continue to provide disclosure under NI 43-101 and the CIM Definition Standards.