Author: Ravi Shankar

NORWOOD, Mass., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MariMed Inc. (“MariMed” or the “Company”) (CSE: MRMD) (OTCQB: MRMD), a leading multi-state cannabis operator focused on improving lives every day, today announced that it has filed a definitive proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in connection with a Special Meeting of Stockholders (the “Special Meeting”) to seek stockholder approval of a proposed reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock (the “Reverse Stock Split”).

The proposed Reverse Stock Split is intended to provide MariMed with greater flexibility to satisfy the minimum share price and other requirements associated with a potential listing of its common stock on a U.S. national securities exchange. If the proposal is approved by the Company’s stockholders, the Reverse Stock Split will be effected in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors (the “Board”).

“Our Board believes that positioning MariMed to pursue a listing on a major U.S. exchange is an important step in the Company’s evolution,” said Jon Levine, Chief Executive Officer of MariMed. “A national exchange listing has the potential to broaden our investor base by increasing the Company’s visibility among institutional investors, research analysts and broker-dealers and improve access to the capital markets. As the regulatory environment for the cannabis industry as well as the capital markets continue to evolve, we believe taking these steps now gives us greater strategic flexibility.”

There can be no assurance that the Board will determine to effect the Reverse Stock Split, that MariMed will be eligible for listing on a U.S. national securities exchange, that the Reverse Stock Split will enable the Company to satisfy all applicable listing requirements, or that the Reverse Stock Split will result in a sustained increase in the trading price or liquidity of the Company’s common stock.

Reverse Stock Split Details

If approved by stockholders:

• The Reverse Stock Split proposal would authorize the Board to determine whether and when to implement the Reverse Stock Split at a ratio of between one for fifty and one for one-hundred, in its discretion. The Board would determine the final ratio based on market conditions and other relevant considerations, including the requirements associated with a potential listing of the Company’s common stock on a U.S. national securities exchange.
• The Board would retain the discretion not to implement the Reverse Stock Split if it determines that doing so would not be in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

• No fractional shares would be issued in connection with the Reverse Stock Split. Stockholders who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share as a result of the Reverse Stock Split will instead receive a cash payment in lieu of such fractional share.

If the Reverse Stock Split is implemented:

• The number of shares of MariMed common stock outstanding would be reduced by the applicable split ratio. The Reverse Stock Split would not, by itself, change a stockholder’s proportional ownership or voting power in the Company, except for any adjustments resulting from the treatment of fractional shares.

Special Meeting of Stockholders

The Special Meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on October 28, 2026 at 9:30 am eastern time, or a later date if adjourned. Stockholders of record as of the close of business on September 4, 2026 will be entitled to vote on the Reverse Stock Split proposal at the Special Meeting.

The definitive proxy statement has been filed with the SEC and is available through the SEC’s website and on MariMed’s Investor Relations website. Stockholders are encouraged to read the definitive proxy statement in its entirety because it contains important information regarding the Reverse Stock Split proposal, including the reasons for the proposal and associated risks.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in connection with the proposal to be submitted to the Company’s stockholders at the Special Meeting seeking approval of an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split (the “Reverse Stock Split Proposal”). This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the Reverse Stock Split Proposal and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the Reverse Stock Split Proposal. In connection with the Special Meeting, the Company filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 22, 2026. The Company’s stockholders are urged to read the definitive proxy statement and all other relevant materials filed with the SEC as such documents contain important information about the Company, the Special Meeting and the Reverse Stock Split Proposal. The definitive proxy statement and other relevant materials are being made available to the Company’s stockholders as of the record date for the Special Meeting and may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov, or via the Company’s website, www.marimedinc.com.

Participants in the Solicitation

The Company and its directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the Company’s stockholders in connection with the Reverse Stock Split Proposal. Information about the Company’s directors and executive officers, including a description of their direct or indirect interests in the Reverse Stock Split Proposal, is set forth in the definitive proxy statement for the Special Meeting filed with the SEC on September 22, 2026. The definitive proxy statement may be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

About MariMed
MariMed Inc. is a leading multi-state cannabis operator, known for developing and managing state-of-the-art cultivation, production, and retail facilities. Our award-winning portfolio of cannabis brands, including Betty’s Eddies™, Bubby’s Baked™, Vibations™, InHouse™, and Nature’s Heritage™, sets us apart as an industry leader. These trusted brands, crafted with quality and innovation, are recognized and loved by consumers across the country. With a commitment to excellence, MariMed continues to drive growth and set new standards in the cannabis industry. For additional information, visit www.marimedinc.com.

Important Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this release contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to several risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this release, including without limitation statements regarding the proposed listing of the Company’s common stock on a national exchange and the affect and impact of the Reverse Split are forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “expectations,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” and other similar language, whether in the negative or affirmative, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words.

Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current beliefs and assumptions regarding our business, timing of regulatory approvals, the ability to obtain new licenses, business prospects and strategic growth plan, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements due to various risks, uncertainties, and other important factors, including, among others, reductions in customer spending, its ability to recruit and retain key personnel, and disruptions from the integration efforts of acquired companies.

These factors are not intended to be an all-encompassing list of risks and uncertainties that may affect the Company’s business and results of operations. These statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve risk and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, including, among other factors, changes in demand for the Company’s services and products, changes in the law and its enforcement, and changes in the economic environment. Additional information regarding these and other factors can be found in the Company’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In providing these forward-looking statements, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update these statements publicly or otherwise, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

All trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For More Information Contact:

Howard Schacter, Chief Communications Officer
Email: hschacter@marimedinc.com
Phone: (781) 277-0007

TORONTO, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On September 22, 2026, the Board of Directors of AGF Management Limited declared a dividend of 13.5 cents per share on both the Class B Non-Voting shares and the Class A Voting common shares of the company. This dividend will be payable on October 15, 2026 to shareholders of record on October 1, 2026.

About AGF Management Limited

Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and alternative investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $74 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 820,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

Nick Smerek
VP, Financial Planning & Analysis
416-865-4337, InvestorRelations@agf.com

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

• Reported quarterly adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.49
• Free cash flows of $38.9 million in the quarter, up 27% from prior year
• Total assets under management and fee-earning assets of $74.2 billion, up 31% from prior year
• Declared quarterly dividend per share of 13.5 cents

AGF Management Limited (AGF or the Company) (TSX: AGF.B) today announced financial results for the third quarter ended August 31, 2026.

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

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

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

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

_{¹ AUM represents assets under management and model delivery assets of AGF subsidiaries and affiliates. Fee-earning assets represents assets managed by affiliates in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.
² Canadian retail net flows includes Canadian retail mutual fund net sales and Canadian ETF and SMA net sales.}

Key Business Highlights:

AGF Investments

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

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

AGF Capital Partners

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

Financial Highlights:

• Adjusted EBITDA³ for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $48.8 million, compared to $64.1 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $46.2 million for the comparative prior year period.
• Net management, advisory and administration fees³ for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $101.0 million, compared to $96.7 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $88.8 million for the comparative prior year period.
• Adjusted selling, general and administrative costs³ for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $63.7 million, compared to $62.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $61.3 million for the comparative prior year period. Adjusted SG&A increased compared to the prior period and comparative prior year period, primarily driven by higher non-compensation expenses.
• Adjusted EBITDA³ from AGF Capital Partners for the three months ended August 31, 2026, was $8.5 million, compared to $21.5 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $11.4 million for the comparative prior year period. The decrease over the prior period is primarily due to lower revenue from long-term investments and a $14.7 million gain recognized on the NHC transaction in the prior period.
• Adjusted EBITDA³ excluding AGF Capital Partners of $40.3 million for the three months ended August 31, 2026, compared to $42.6 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $34.8 million for the comparative prior year period.
• Adjusted net income attributable to equity owners³ for the three months ended August 31, 2026 was $32.0 million ($0.49 adjusted diluted EPS), compared to $46.9 million ($0.72 adjusted diluted EPS) for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $31.2 million ($0.46 adjusted diluted EPS) for the comparative prior year period.
• Free cash flow³ of $38.9 million for the three months ended August 31, 2026, compared to $36.4 million for the three months ended May 31, 2026 and $30.6 million for the comparative prior year period.

		Three months ended												Nine months ended
			August 31,				May 31,				August 31,				August 31,				August 31,
	(in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share data)		2026				2026				2025				2026				2025
	Revenues
	Management, advisory and administration fees	$	141.7			$	135.8			$	126.7			$	408.4			$	369.0
	Trailing commissions and investment advisory fees		(40.7	)			(39.1	)			(37.9	)			(118.3	)			(111.2	)
	Net management, advisory and administration fees3	$	101.0			$	96.7			$	88.8			$	290.1			$	257.8
	Deferred sales charges		0.6				0.8				0.9				2.3				3.1
	Adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners3		10.9				26.6				15.5				38.3				53.7
	Other revenue3		–				2.6				2.3				3.8				3.4
	Total adjusted net revenue3		112.5				126.7				107.5				334.5				318.0
	Selling, general and administrative		64.8				64.0				65.9				196.3				196.6
	Adjusted selling, general and administrative3		63.7				62.6				61.3				191.4				184.4
	EBITDA3		47.4				63.0				42.1				138.7				122.5
	EBITDA margin3		42.1%				49.7%				39.2%				41.4%				38.5%
	Adjusted EBITDA3		48.8				64.1				46.2				143.1				133.6
	Adjusted EBITDA margin3		43.4%				50.6%				43.0%				42.8%				42.0%
	Net income – equity owners of the Company		31.2				46.3				28.4				95.6				83.6
	Adjusted net income – equity owners of the Company3		32.0				46.9				31.2				98.6				89.3
	Diluted earnings per share		0.48				0.71				0.42				1.46				1.24
	Adjusted diluted earnings per share3		0.49				0.72				0.46				1.50				1.33
	Free cash flow3		38.9				36.4				30.6				111.2				86.2
	Dividends paid per share		0.135				0.135				0.125				0.395				0.365

_{³ Net management, advisory and administration fees, adjusted revenue from AGF Capital Partners, total adjusted net revenue, adjusted selling, general and administrative, EBITDA, EBITDA margin, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share and free cash flow are not standardized measures prescribed by IFRS. The Company utilizes non-IFRS measures to assess our overall performance and facilitate a comparison of quarterly and full-year results from period to period. They allow us to assess our investment management business without the impact of non-operational items. These non-IFRS measures may not be comparable with similar measures presented by other companies. These non-IFRS measures and reconciliations to IFRS, where necessary, are included in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis available at www.agf.com.}

		Three months ended
			August 31,				May 31,			February 28,			November 30,			August 31,
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)		2026				2026			2026			2025			2025
	Mutual fund AUM4	$	37,529			$	37,985		$	35,817		$	34,984		$	32,958
	ETFs and SMA AUM5		5,481				4,823			4,492			4,136			3,487
	Segregated accounts and sub-advisory AUM		5,874				6,634			5,923			7,190			6,685
	Total AGF Investments AUM		48,884				49,442			46,232			46,310			43,130
	AGF Private Wealth AUM		9,685				9,948			9,764			9,488			9,016
	AGF Capital Partners AUM6		13,533				13,178			2,345			2,454			2,510
	Total AUM	$	72,102			$	72,568		$	58,341		$	58,252		$	54,656
	AGF Capital Partners fee-earning assets7		2,133				2,129			2,120			2,136			2,121
	Total AUM and fee-earning assets7	$	74,235			$	74,697		$	60,461		$	60,388		$	56,777
	Mutual fund net sales (redemptions)		(30	)			6			190			276			247
	Canadian retail net flows2		271				161			431			488			309
	Canadian retail mutual fund net sales8		92				6			237			282			262
	Canadian ETF and SMA net sales5		179				155			194			206			47
	Average daily mutual fund AUM		38,045				35,869			35,154			34,424			32,122

_{⁴ Mutual fund AUM includes retail AUM, pooled funds AUM and institutional client AUM invested in customized series offered within mutual funds.
⁵ ETF and SMA AUM includes model delivery assets – third-party managed account assets for which AGF provides model portfolios and earns a model delivery fee, without custody or discretionary management of the underlying accounts.
⁶ AGF Capital Partners AUM represents the total assets under management of the Affiliate Managers that comprise AGF Capital Partners. This includes the full AUM of Affiliate Managers for which AGF consolidates or uses the equity method of accounting.
⁷ Fee-earning assets represents assets managed by affiliates in which AGF has carried interest ownership and earns fees but does not have ownership interest in the managers.
⁸ Net sales in retail mutual funds is calculated as reported mutual fund net sales (redemptions) less non-recurring institutional net sales (redemptions) in excess of $5.0 million invested in our mutual funds.}

For further information and detailed financial statements for the third quarter ended August 31, 2026, including Management’s Discussion and Analysis, which contains discussions of non-IFRS measures, please refer to AGF’s website at www.agf.com under ‘About AGF’ and ‘Investor Relations’ and at www.sedarplus.ca.

Conference Call

AGF will host a conference call to review its earnings results today at 11 a.m. ET.

The live audio webcast with supporting materials will be available in the Investor Relations section of AGF’s website at www.agf.com or at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/iksbp2qy. Alternatively, the call can be accessed over the phone by registering here or in the Investor Relations section of AGF’s website at www.agf.com, to receive the dial-in numbers and unique PIN.

A complete archive of this discussion along with supporting materials will be available at the same webcast address within 24 hours of the end of the conference call.

About AGF Management Limited

Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.
 
AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and alternative investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.
 
Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $74 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 820,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

About AGF Investments

AGF Investments is a group of wholly owned subsidiaries of AGF Management Limited, a Canadian reporting issuer. The subsidiaries included in AGF Investments are AGF Investments Inc. (AGFI), AGF Investments LLC (AGFUS) and AGF International Advisors Company Limited (AGFIA). The term AGF Investments may refer to one or more of these subsidiaries or to all of them jointly. This term is used for convenience and does not precisely describe any of the separate companies, each of which manages its own affairs. AGF Investments entities only provide investment advisory services or offers investment funds in the jurisdiction where such firm and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

About AGF Capital Partners

AGF Capital Partners is AGF’s multi-boutique alternatives business with Affiliate Managers across both private assets and alternative strategies. Clients benefit from the specialized investment expertise of Affiliate Managers combined with the organizational support and breadth of resources of AGF Management Limited (AGF). With over 19 years average experience, AGF Capital Partners Affiliate Managers including, Kensington Capital Partners Limited, New Holland Capital, LLC and AGF SAF Private Credit, manage approximately C$15.7 billion* in alternative AUM and fee earning assets on behalf of institutional and retail clients.

 *U.S. AUM converted FX rate as at August 31, 2026 (1.39)

The term ‘Affiliate Manager’ refers to any partner regardless of relationship structures or revenue sharing agreements. The form of AGF’s structured partnership interests in Affiliate Managers differs from Affiliate Manager to Affiliate Manager. The structure of the relationship with a particular Affiliate Manager, or the revenue that AGF agrees to share in, may change. Affiliate Managers only provide investment advisory services or offer products in the jurisdiction where such firm, individuals and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

AGF Management Limited shareholders, analysts and media, please contact:

Nick Smerek
VP, Financial Planning & Analysis
416-865-4337, InvestorRelations@agf.com

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements about the Company, including its business operations, strategy and expected financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or include words such as ‘expects,’ ‘estimates,’ ‘anticipates,’ ‘intends,’ ‘plans,’ ‘believes’ or negative versions thereof and similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as ‘may,’ ‘will,’ ‘should,’ ‘would’ and ‘could.’ In addition, any statement that may be made concerning future financial performance (including income, revenues, earnings or growth rates), ongoing business strategies or prospects, fund performance, and possible future action on our part, is also a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements are based on certain factors and assumptions, including expected growth, results of operations, business prospects, business performance and opportunities. While we consider these factors and assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events and are inherently subject to, among other things, risks, uncertainties and assumptions about our operations, economic factors and the financial services industry generally. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual events and results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements made by us due to, but not limited to, important risk factors such as level of assets under our management, volume of sales and redemptions of our investment products, performance of our investment funds and of our investment managers and advisors, client-driven asset allocation decisions, pipeline, competitive fee levels for investment management products and administration, and competitive dealer compensation levels and cost efficiency in our investment management operations, as well as general economic, political and market factors in North America and internationally, interest and foreign exchange rates, global equity and capital markets, business competition, taxation, changes in government regulations, unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings, technological changes, cybersecurity, the possible effects of war or terrorist activities, outbreaks of disease or illness that affect local, national or international economies, natural disasters and disruptions to public infrastructure, such as transportation, communications, power or water supply or other catastrophic events, and our ability to complete strategic transactions and integrate acquisitions, and attract and retain key personnel. We caution that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. The reader is cautioned to consider these and other factors carefully and not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Other than specifically required by applicable laws, we are under no obligation (and expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For a more complete discussion of the risk factors that may impact actual results, please refer to the ‘Risk Factors and Management of Risk’ section of the 2025 Annual MD&A.

CHICAGO, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Verano Holdings Corp. (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNO) (“Verano” or the “Company”), a leading multi-state cannabis company, today announced that it plans to release financial results for the third quarter ending on September 30, 2026, before the market opens on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

A conference call and webcast with analysts and investors is scheduled for October 29, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. ET / 7:30 a.m. CT to discuss the results.

• Investors and participants can register in advance for the call by visiting: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI10964a36c81a483c80c6a571ef0f9518
• After registering, instructions will be shared on how to join the call for those who wish to dial in.
• On October 29, the live webcast can be accessed via the following link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/mr3yjhvp
• The live and archived webcast will be available on the Events and Presentations page of the Company’s investor relations website at investors.verano.com.

About Verano

Verano Holdings Corp. (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNO), one of the U.S. cannabis industry’s leading companies based on historical revenue, geographic scope and brand performance, is a vertically integrated, multi-state operator embracing a mission of saying Yes to plant progress and the bold exploration of cannabis. Verano provides a superior cannabis shopping experience in medical and adult use markets under the Zen Leaf^™ and MÜV^™ dispensary banners, and produces a comprehensive suite of high-quality, regulated cannabis products sold under its diverse portfolio of trusted consumer brands including Savvy^™, (the) Essence^™, Swift Lifts^™, HYPHEN^™, Encore^™, Easy Landings^™, BITS^™, Avexia^™, MÜV^™, CTPharma^™, and Verano^™. Verano’s active operations span 13 U.S. states, comprised of 14 production facilities with over 1.1 million square feet of cultivation capacity. Learn more at Verano.com.

Contacts:
Investors
Verano
Aaron Miles
Chief Investment Officer
Investors@verano.com

Media
Verano
Steve Mazeika
Vice President, Communications
steve.mazeika@verano.com

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company’s beliefs regarding future events, plans, strategies, or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company’s control. Generally, such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “future”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “projects,” “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases, or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “will continue”, “will occur” or “will be achieved”. Forward-looking statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements herein, including, without limitation, the risk factors described in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except as may be required in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice regarding forward-looking information and statements.

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CHICAGO and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Green Thumb Industries Inc. (Green Thumb) (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), a leading national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and owner of RISE Dispensaries, today announced it will release third quarter 2026 financial results after the market closes on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

A conference call and audio webcast will also be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time/4:00 p.m. Central Time to discuss the results and answer any questions.

• Live conference call: (800) 715-9871 (US & Canada) Conference ID: 4055374
• Live webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/drpfjbnk
• Archived webcast: https://investors.gtigrows.com/news-events/events-presentations

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by such statements. Green Thumb Industries undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law.

About Green Thumb Industries
Green Thumb Industries Inc. (“Green Thumb”) is a leading national cannabis consumer packaged goods company and retailer headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The company manufactures and distributes a portfolio of licensed, branded cannabis products, including RYTHM, Dogwalkers, incredibles, Beboe, &Shine, Doctor Solomon’s and Good Green. Green Thumb also owns and operates RISE Dispensaries, a rapidly growing national retail chain. Green Thumb serves millions of patients and customers each year with a mission to promote well-being through the power of cannabis while giving back to the communities it serves. Established in 2014, Green Thumb has manufacturing facilities and retail stores across 14 U.S. markets, employing approximately 5,000 people. More information is available at www.gtigrows.com.

Investor Contact:
Andy Grossman
EVP, Capital Markets & Investor Relations
InvestorRelations@gtigrows.com
888-406-1143

Media Contact:
GTI Communications
media@gtigrows.com

TORONTO, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NexGold Mining Corp. (TSXV: NEXG; OTCQX: NXGCF) (“NexGold” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide additional results from its diamond drilling program at the Company’s Goliath Gold Complex, which includes the Goliath, Goldlund and Miller Deposits. The drill program, of which approximately 31,971 metres of the expanded 35-000 metre program have been completed, is focused on infilling and testing the extension of mineralization within Zone 4 of the Goldlund Deposit. The results presented in this news release include 3,603 metres of diamond drilling in 10 drill holes (GL-26-031 to GL-26-040) (Figures 1, 2 and 3; Tables 1 and 2).

Selected drill intersections from diamond drill holes at the Goldlund Deposit in this news release are further detailed in Table 1 and include:

• 14.07 g/t gold over 7.0 metres (from 187.0 to 194.0 metres), including 95.70 g/t gold over 1.0 metres in drill hole GL-26-034; additionally, 9.76 g/t gold over 8.0 metres (from 170.0 to 178.0 metres), including 74.10 g/t gold over 1.0 metres, 2.84 g/t gold over 13.0 metres (from 205.0 to 218.0 metres), including 21.70 g/t gold over 1.2 metres, 53.00 g/t gold over 1.0 metres (from 74.0 to 75.0 metres), and 0.55 g/t gold over 29.7 metres (from 243.5 to 273.2 metres) including 7.61 g/t gold over 1.2 metres in the same hole;
• 2.23 g/t gold over 15.5 metres (from 123.5 to 139.0 metres), including 40.50 g/t gold over 0.5 metres and 3.97 g/t gold over 0.8 metres in drill hole GL-26-032; additionally, 1.49 g/t gold over 9.1 metres (from 433.9 to 443.0 metres), including 6.50 g/t gold over 0.7 metres and 9.25 g/t gold over 0.5 metres in the same hole;
• 1.25 g/t gold over 22.0 metres (from 166.0 to 188.0 metres), including 40.50 g/t gold over 0.5 metres in drill hole GL-26-033; additionally, 0.84 g/t gold over 42.8 metres (from 245.7 to 288.5 metres), including 7.04 g/t gold over 1.3 metres and 3.91 g/t gold over 1.0 metres in the same hole; and
• 1.51 g/t gold over 17.1 metres (from 218.9 to 236.0 metres), including 13.80 g/t gold over 0.6 metres and 5.98 g/t gold over 1.0 metres in drill hole GL-26-039A; additionally, 2.04 g/t gold over 6.2 metres (from 196.2 to 202.4 metres), including 15.50 g/t gold over 0.6 metres in the same hole.

Kevin Bullock, President, CEO & Director of NexGold, commented: “I am pleased with the additional assay results from our drill program at Goldlund. This program continues to demonstrate grade continuity at depth, but within reach of a potential open pit. Grade tenor and thicknesses continue to build confidence that mineralization continues at depth and is consistent with previous drill results. Our continued drilling progress at Goldlund further supports our objectives for this program – to infill and test the extension of mineralization in Zone 4 – which is expected to contribute to refinement of our geological model and may inform future Mineral Resource assessments. We expect to complete the balance of the 35,000-metre program by the end of 2026 and will continue to provide updates as results become available.”

Mineralization at the Goldlund Deposit is generally characterized by quartz stockwork veining within sub-vertical granodiorite sills. Zone 4 at the Goldlund Deposit includes broad intervals of mineralized intermediate-mafic volcanic rocks with multiple porphyry and granodiorite intrusions. The drill results summarized in this news release, together with previously announced drill results, provide additional support and information relevant to the interpretation of grade continuity within Zone 4. These results are expected to contribute to ongoing refinement of the geological model and may support future evaluation of Mineral Resource classification, subject to additional drilling, data verification, and completion of further technical studies.

Drill holes completed as part of this program have been distributed across the strike extent of Zone 4, with the holes highlighted in this news release located from the central to southeastern portion of the zone. The results provide additional information supporting the Company’s current geological interpretation of mineralization within Zone 4 and provide additional information regarding the continuity of mineralization between drill sections. Additional drilling is planned to further evaluate mineralization along strike and down dip and to inform Mineral Resource assessments.

Figure 1: Plan map showing the location of the Goldlund Zone 4 infill drill holes

Figure 2: A cross-section through the Goldlund Deposit showing the location of the drill holes (GL-26-030B to GL-26-032 and GL-26-038 to GL-26-040) reported in this news release

Figure 3: A cross-section through the Goldlund Deposit showing the location of the drill holes (GL-26-033 to GL-26-035 and GL-26-037) reported in this news release

Table 1: Highlighted drill intercepts from drill holes in this news release

Drill Hole ID	Target/Zone	From (m)	To (m)	Interval (m)	Au (g/t)
GL-26-031	Zone 50	66.8	69.6	2.8	2.05
And	Zone 4	300.0	301.0	1.0	42.30
And	Zone 4	309.0	326.0	17.0	0.30
including		325.0	326.0	1.0	2.42
And	Zone 4	355.1	372.9	17.8	0.36
GL-26-032	Zone 50	123.5	139.0	15.5	2.23
Including		123.5	124.0	0.5	40.50
and including		136.2	137.0	0.8	3.97
And	Zone 4	433.9	443.0	9.1	1.49
Including		439.8	440.5	0.7	6.50
and including		442.5	443.0	0.5	9.25
GL-26-033	Interzone	21.0	27.0	6.0	1.01
Including		21.0	22.0	1.0	3.85
And	Interzone	38.0	39.0	1.0	7.26
And	Zone 4	166.0	188.0	22.0	1.25
Including		174.5	175.0	0.5	40.50
And	Zone 4	245.7	288.5	42.8	0.84
Including		249.5	250.8	1.3	7.04
and including		273.0	274.0	1.0	3.91
And	Zone 4	293.8	300.0	6.2	1.19
Including		299.0	300.0	1.0	3.09
And	Zone 4	309.0	314.7	5.7	2.13
Including		310.0	311.0	1.0	10.70
GL-26-034	Interzone	74.0	75.0	1.0	53.00
And	Zone 4	170.0	178.0	8.0	9.76
Including		173.0	174.0	1.0	74.10
And	Zone 4	187.0	194.0	7.0	14.07
Including		187.0	188.0	1.0	95.70
And	Zone 4	205.0	218.0	13.0	2.84
Including		216.8	218.0	1.2	21.70
And	Zone 4	223.0	232.9	9.9	0.70
Including		223.0	224.0	1.0	4.18
And	Zone 4	243.5	273.2	29.7	0.55
Including		272.0	273.2	1.2	7.61
And	Zone 4	299.0	304.5	5.5	0.95
Including		303.5	304.5	1.0	4.01
GL-26-035	Interzone	85.5	91.5	6.0	1.02
Including		90.0	91.5	1.5	4.05
And	Zone 4	195.0	212.0	17.0	0.46
Including		207.0	208.0	1.0	2.92
And	Zone 4	219.4	225.0	5.6	0.57
And	Zone 4	239.0	253.8	14.8	0.43
GL-26-036	Zone 4	146.0	149.0	3.0	1.02
Including		146.0	146.7	0.7	2.99
GL-26-037	Zone 4	176.5	182.0	5.5	1.07
Including		181.0	182.0	1.0	3.17
And	Zone 4	195.0	209.0	14.0	0.62
Including		206.0	207.0	1.0	2.31
GL-26-038	Zone 4	178.0	186.0	8.0	0.65
Including		185.0	186.0	1.0	2.52
And	Zone 4	192.9	193.4	0.5	26.80
GL-26-039A	Zone 4	196.2	202.4	6.2	2.04
Including		201.8	202.4	0.6	15.50
And	Zone 4	218.9	236.0	17.1	1.51
Including		218.9	219.5	0.6	13.80
and including		225.5	226.5	1.0	5.98
GL-26-040	Zone 4	216.1	227.6	11.5	0.81
Including		222.6	223.6	1.0	3.58

<sup>Notes:
1. Reported intervals are drilled core lengths and do not indicate true widths. True widths typically vary from 50 to 75% of the interval length, except for hole GL-26-033, where true width is estimated from 25 to 50% of interval length due to the steeper inclination drilled.
2. For duplicate samples, the average grade was used to calculate the intersection grade. All grades are uncapped.</sup>

Table 2: Locations and orientations of drill holes in this news release

Drill Hole ID	Easting	Northing	Elevation (m)	Length (m)	Azimuth	Inclination
GL-25-031	546884	5527816	415	450	131	-46
GL-25-032	546884	5527816	415	501	128	-55
GL-25-033	546699	5527562	418	402	140	-70
GL-25-034	546768	5527647	418	405	129	-54
GL-26-035	546768	5527647	418	372	129	-45
GL-26-036	546691	5527494	410	192	128	-52
GL-26-037	546694	5527607	415	327	132	-45
GL-26-038	547033	5527739	423	300	120	-46
GL-26-039A	547072	5527762	426	327	121	-46
GL-26-040	547102	5527764	427	327	119	-45

^{Note: Drill hole locations reported as Universal Transverse Mercator NAD83 Zone 15N coordinates}

QA / QC

The Company has implemented a quality assurance and quality control (“QA/QC”) program to ensure sampling and analysis of all exploration work is conducted in accordance with the CIM Exploration Best Practices Guidelines. Drill core is sawed in half with one-half of the core sample dispatched to the Activation Laboratories Ltd. laboratory in Dryden, Ontario. The other half of the core is retained for future assay verification and/or metallurgical testing. Other QA/QC procedures include the insertion of blanks and Canadian Reference Standards for every tenth sample in the sample stream. A quarter core duplicate is assayed every 20^th sample. The laboratory, which is independent of the Company, has its own QA/QC protocols, running standards and blanks with duplicate samples in each batch stream. Additional checks are routinely run on anomalous values including gravimetric analysis and pulp metallic screen fire assays. Gold analysis is conducted by lead collection, fire assay with atomic absorption, and/or gravimetric finish on a 50-gram sample. Check assays are conducted at a secondary independent ISO certified laboratory (in this case AGAT Laboratories located in Mississauga, Ontario) following the completion of a program.

Qualified Person

Paul McNeill, P.Geo., VP Exploration of NexGold, is a “Qualified Person” as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. McNeill has reviewed the available data, composites and QA/QC information related to the drill program and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this news release on behalf of NexGold.

About NexGold Mining Corp.

NexGold is a gold-focused company with assets in Canada and Alaska, including the Goldboro Gold Project in Nova Scotia, the Goliath Gold Complex (which includes the Goliath, Goldlund and Miller deposits) in Northwestern Ontario, and additional exploration projects across Canada. NexGold also holds a 100% interest in the high-grade Niblack copper-gold-zinc-silver VMS project in southeast Alaska. NexGold is committed to ongoing, meaningful engagement with regional communities and Indigenous Nations to support sustainable development, safe operations, and shared economic and social benefits.

Further details about NexGold, including a Feasibility Study for the Goldboro Gold Project and a Prefeasibility Study for the Goliath Gold Complex, are available under the Company’s issuer profile on www.sedarplus.ca and on NexGold’s website at www.nexgold.com.

Contact:

Kevin Bullock President & CEO (416) 214-4654 kbullock@nexgold.com

Greg DiTomaso Investor Relations (647) 547-5357 gditomaso@nexgold.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information relates to future events or future performance and reflects management’s expectations and assumptions as of the date of this news release.

Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes, but is not limited to statements regarding the Company’s plans and objectives for the Goldlund drill program; the expected completion of the 35,000-metre drill program by the end of 2026; planned drilling to evaluate mineralization along strike and down dip; the contribution of drilling results to refinement of the Company’s geological model; the potential use of drilling results in future Mineral Resource assessments and evaluation of Mineral Resource classification; and the timing and availability of additional drilling results.

Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by words and phrases such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “targets”, “potential”, “may”, “could”, “should”, “would”, “will” and similar words and expressions.

Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain assumptions that management considers reasonable as of the date of this news release, including that exploration activities will proceed on the anticipated schedules; that contractors, personnel, equipment and supplies necessary to complete the drill program will remain available on acceptable terms; that assay and other results will be received within anticipated timeframes; that the Company’s geological interpretations based on existing information are reasonable; and that the Company will have sufficient financial resources to complete its planned exploration activities.

Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among others: risks that exploration activities, including drilling, may not accurately predict the continuity, grade or extent of mineralization; that future drilling results may not support the Company’s geological interpretations or changes to Mineral Resources estimates or classifications; delays in drilling, receipt of assay results or other exploration activities; the availability of financing, personnel, equipment and contractors; fluctuations in commodity prices, exchange rates and market conditions; environmental, Indigenous, community, permitting and regulatory risks; health and safety risks; and other risks described in the Company’s public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Although the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events may differ materially from those anticipated. Readers should therefore not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is provided as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise such forward-looking information except as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4356fdeb-b77b-4642-bfb5-91022466b000
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4cb356cf-0163-4da1-bd32-a0f9bb696bb4
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ROUYN-NORANDA, Quebec, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abcourt Mines Inc. (“Abcourt” or the “Company”) (TSX Venture: ABI) (OTCQB: ABMBF) is pleased to present its operational report for the month of August 2026 for its Sleeping Giant gold mine, located north of Amos, Quebec. The results demonstrate a marked acceleration of the mine’s restart plan, driven by an increase in mill processing and continuous improvement in the head grades fed.

Highlights:

• Gold production increase: Production of 344 ounces of gold during the month, representing a 91% increase compared to the 180 ounces produced in July.

• Tonnage and grades progressing at the mill: Processing 6,209 tonnes of ore at a growing average grade of 1.94 g/t.

• Continuous increase in underground workforce: Hiring of 6 new miners, bringing the total workforce dedicated to the mine to 149 workers, allowing for accelerated development.

• Underground infrastructure advancement: Completion of 175 m of track drifts and drawpoints, as well as 88 m of sub-levels.

• Finalization of the mining camp in September: 123 rooms will be available to accommodate the personnel required to achieve objectives.

• Hiring at the mill: A second shift team has been recruited. It will be fully operational in October, enabling day and night mill operations on a 4-3 schedule. This team optimization will allow the processing of up to 12,800 tonnes of ore per month.

• Conclusion of an official strategic partnership: Abcourt will now be able to welcome trainees from the Centre de formation professionnelle de la Baie-James (CFPBJ).

Table 1: Comparison of Mill Performance Indicators and Gold Production

Operational Indicator	July 2026	August 2026	Evolution
Tonnes milled	4,736 t	6,209 t	+ 1,473 t (+ 31.1 %)
Average grade (g/t)	1.36 g/t	1.94 g/t	+ 0.58 g/t (+ 42.6 %)
Recovery rate	86.8 %	88.9 %	+ 2.1 %
Ounces produced	180 oz	344 oz	+ 164 oz (+ 91%)
Gold Pours	715 oz *	201 oz	See note Below

* Explanatory Note: The high gold pour recorded in July (715 oz) resulted from a cleanup of the inventory accumulated in the milling circuits during a technical transition phase. The August data accurately reflects the restart of a regular and stable production cycle, supported by the solid progression of tonnage and grade.

UNDERGROUND:

Workforce Optimization and Underground Production

Recruitment continued in August with the integration of 6 new workers, bringing the team dedicated to the mine to 149 employees. In parallel, the training partnership with Technica is bearing fruit: 2 trainers are currently supervising 10 apprentice-miners, with the objective of developing our own internal pool of qualified workforce.

This increase in underground personnel has allowed several key work areas to progress.

Table 2: Current Status and Planning of Mining Sectors

Sector Zone	Development Progress	Planned Production Period
295-DAC5	512 m / 790 m	Mining in progress; completion planned for January 2027
235-Zone 20	481.1 m / 516 m	September – December 2026
235-Zone 3	251.22 m / 405 m	To come (post-development)
355-Zone 3N	Beginning of development. + 63.5 m *	To Come
235-Zone 4_5	Ore drift is completed. Track drift started at the end of August 2026 (+ 47.15 m) **	Multi-Year

* Note: No total data available for 355-Z3N (concept currently being finalized).
** Note: Overall data for zone 4_5 pending block model (BM).

Mutually Beneficial Partnership for the Next Generation of Miners

An alliance with the Centre de formation professionnelle de la Baie-James (CFPBJ) allows Abcourt to counter the labor shortage by welcoming freshly trained interns. Students benefit from a concrete immersion at the Sleeping Giant mine, with room and board and transportation included. For the company, this structuring program secures a direct pool of qualified workers to support the acceleration of its underground operations.

Geology and Exploration

Definition and resource conversion drilling activities actively focused on levels 355 and 915 with two drills in action. During the month, 25 holes were completed for a total of 3,064 meters of core. A total of 2,427 core samples were shipped for analysis. The Company also received and integrated 3,876 assay results into its database, allowing continuous updates to its block models and 3D modeling to optimize future mining plans.

Infrastructure, IT and Environment

Regarding surface infrastructure, Abcourt began excavation and preventive maintenance work at the tailings pond as well as a reorganization of the interior yard. The IT department carried out major optimizations, including the relocation of the GuideTI server to the Sleeping Giant site, the installation of a secondary Starlink system to guarantee network redundancy, and the configuration of a new Web server dedicated to tracking production and miners’ bonuses.

Perspectives

Abcourt management is fully engaged in preparing its 2026/2027 budget. No major capital expenditure (CAPEX) is required in the short term, with absolute priority remaining focused on increasing production rates and achieving maximum operational critical mass at the Sleeping Giant mine. A regular and scheduled maintenance plan will be carried out in due course but will not significantly affect production.

Pascal Hamelin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Abcourt, states: “The 91% increase in our gold production in August confirms the acceleration of the ramp-up at Sleeping Giant. This momentum continues into September, with our teams having already successfully hoisted 5,706 tonnes of ore and milled 4,761 tonnes. Thanks to the continuous arrival of labor and the addition of a second shift at the mill, we are building the critical mass to operate day and night starting this fall. Our absolute priority remains the constant increase of our production rates to maximize all our volumes.”

Qualified Person: Pascal Hamelin, P. Eng., President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this press release. Mr. Hamelin is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Abcourt Mines Inc.

Abcourt Mines Inc. is a Canadian gold development company with strategic properties located in northwestern Quebec, Canada. Abcourt owns the Sleeping Giant mine and mill and the Flordin property where it concentrates its activities.

For further information on Abcourt Mines Inc., please visit our website www.abcourt.ca and the documents filed under our profile on the SEDAR+ website www.sedarplus.ca.

Pascal Hamelin	Dany Cenac Robert
President and Chief Executive Officer	VP Communication and Corporate Development
T: (819) 768-2857	T: (514) 722-2276, ext. 456
Email: phamelin@abcourt.com	Email: ir@abcourt.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information contained in this press release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “aims”, “expects”, “projects”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “could”, “should”, “likely”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements specifying that certain acts, events or results “could”, “should” occur, “will occur” or “will be achieved” or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on Abcourt’s estimates and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Abcourt to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic factors and uncertainties, as well as other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forward-looking statements, including relevant assumptions and risk factors set forth in Abcourt’s public documents, available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Although Abcourt believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements. Unless required by applicable securities laws, Abcourt disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any of these forward-looking statements or information, whether in light of new information, future events or otherwise.

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

Transactions include an investment of up to US$5 million in PsyLabs and an approximately US$9 million value-matched share exchange

Highlights

• The Company is actively advancing plans for a potential ibogaine clinical trial in Texas for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
• Texas Ibogaine Research Corporation (TIRC), a dedicated U.S. subsidiary of Psyence BioMed, has been established for its planned ibogaine development activities in the US.
• Psyence BioMed has agreed to invest up to US$5 million in PsyLabs, of which US$2.4 million has been committed, to support scientific development and pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing capabilities relevant to the planned U.S. program.
• Psyence BioMed and PsyLabs have agreed to a value-matched share exchange with a transaction value of approximately US$9 million on each side.

NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Psyence Biomedical Ltd. (Nasdaq: PBM) (“Psyence BioMed” or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company developing nature-derived neuroplastogen therapeutics, today announced that it has agreed to make a cash investment of up to US$5 million in Psyence Labs Ltd. (“PsyLabs”), together with a value-matched share exchange between the two companies. The transactions are intended to support the scientific, manufacturing and development capabilities required for Psyence BioMed’s planned U.S. ibogaine program.

TIRC, registered and headquartered in Texas, has been established to provide a dedicated corporate structure through which the Company can coordinate its planned U.S. regulatory, clinical and development activities involving pharmaceutical-grade ibogaine.

The Company is currently evaluating the feasibility and design of a potential ibogaine clinical trial in Texas. Any clinical program would be subject to protocol development, regulatory review and authorization, institutional approvals, funding, site selection and other customary requirements.

Texas has emerged as an important state for publicly supported ibogaine research. Psyence BioMed believes that establishing a dedicated presence in the state positions the Company to participate in this developing research environment while building the regulatory and clinical infrastructure required for a potential U.S. development program.

Strategic Investment and Share Exchange

To support its planned development activities, Psyence BioMed has agreed to invest up to US$5 million in PsyLabs. The investment is intended to fund scientific work and the continued development of pharmaceutical-grade ibogaine manufacturing capabilities relevant to Psyence BioMed’s U.S. program. Psyence BioMed has irrevocably committed to subscribe for US$2.4 million (936 PsyLabs ordinary shares at US$2,564 per share, based on a pre-money equity valuation of PsyLabs of US$54 million) under its pro rata pre-emption entitlement in PsyLabs’ current financing round. The balance of up to US$2.6 million is a backstop commitment to subscribe for shares in that financing round not taken up by other PsyLabs shareholders, in up to two tranches of up to US$1.3 million each, payable upon certain milestones being achieved and other customary conditions. If the milestone tranches have not been called and completed by December 31, 2026, Psyence BioMed’s obligation to fund them will lapse.

In addition to the abovementioned investment, the Company and PsyLabs have also agreed to a reciprocal share-for-share exchange, with each component valued at approximately US$9 million, subject to applicable corporate and regulatory approvals, required Nasdaq notifications and other customary closing conditions. The share exchange agreement may be terminated by any party if closing has not occurred by November 30, 2026. Under the agreed terms:

• Psyence BioMed will issue 1,497,500 common shares to PsyLabs, representing approximately US$8.99 million in transaction value based on a deemed issue price of US$6.00 per PBM share; and
• PsyLabs will issue 3,473 ordinary shares to Psyence BioMed, representing an equivalent transaction value of approximately US$8.99 million based on an implied equity valuation of PsyLabs of US$60 million derived from an independent third-party valuation.

Psyence BioMed is making the cash investment, and will hold the PsyLabs shares to be issued under the share exchange, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Psyence Biomed II Corp. The share exchange increases each company’s ownership interest in the other. Immediately prior to the transactions, PsyLabs held approximately 30.22% of Psyence BioMed’s issued and outstanding common shares, and Psyence BioMed held approximately 29.17% of PsyLabs’ issued and outstanding shares. Immediately following completion of the share exchange and the committed portion of the cash investment, PsyLabs will hold approximately 49.89% of Psyence BioMed’s issued and outstanding common shares, and Psyence BioMed will hold approximately 41.13% of PsyLabs’ issued and outstanding shares. The cash investment and the share exchange are related-party transactions. Psyence BioMed believes the transactions will more closely align its clinical and regulatory development activities with PsyLabs’ pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing and supply capabilities.

“Access to pharmaceutical-grade ibogaine is fundamental to the U.S. program we are planning,” said Jody Aufrichtig, Chief Executive Officer of Psyence BioMed and TIRC. “Our investment in PsyLabs, together with the share exchange, is intended to align Psyence BioMed more closely with the manufacturing and supply capabilities we believe a regulated clinical program will require, while TIRC provides the dedicated U.S. structure through which we intend to advance that program. Our objective is to advance this program responsibly, supported by rigorous clinical research and pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing.”

“TIRC is intended to bring greater coordination to the regulatory, clinical and operational components of our planned U.S. program,” said Dr. John Thorne, Project Lead of TIRC. “We are now evaluating the requirements for a potential clinical trial, including the development plan, regulatory pathway, manufacturing documentation and necessary clinical capabilities.”

“PsyLabs has invested significant time and expertise in developing a controlled supply and manufacturing platform for pharmaceutical grade ibogaine,” said Tony Budden, Chief Executive Officer of PsyLabs. “This investment is intended to allow us to further develop that capability in support of Psyence BioMed’s planned U.S. program and the quality requirements associated with regulated clinical research.”

TIRC will initially draw upon Psyence BioMed’s existing legal, administrative and financial resources, with corporate oversight that includes Chief Financial Officer Warwick Corden-Lloyd and the Company’s in-house legal function.

ABOUT PSYENCE BIOMED

Psyence Biomedical Ltd. (Nasdaq: PBM) is a Nasdaq-listed company with its subsidiary, Texas Ibogaine Research Corporation, headquartered in Texas. It is one of the few multi-asset, vertically integrated biopharmaceutical companies specializing in neuroplastogen-based therapeutics and the manufacture of pharmaceutical-grade drug candidates. It is the first life sciences biotechnology company focused on developing nature-derived, non-synthetic psilocybin and ibogaine-based neuroplastogen medicine to be listed on Nasdaq. The Company is dedicated to addressing unmet mental health needs and is committed to an evidence-based approach to developing safe, effective and FDA-approved nature-derived neuroplastogen treatments across a range of mental health disorders.

ABOUT PSYLABS

PsyLabs is a neuroplastogen active pharmaceutical ingredient development company, federally licensed in its operating jurisdiction to cultivate, extract and export psilocybin mushrooms and other neuroplastogen compounds, including psilocybin, psilocin, mescaline, ibogaine and dimethyltryptamine, to lawful medical and research markets. PsyLabs operates from an ISO 22000 and GMP-compliant facility, with a focus on natural compound purification, regulatory support and global distribution. www.psylabs.life

CONTACTS

Psyence Biomedical Ltd. · ir@psyencebiomed.com · media@psyencebiomed.com · info@psyencebiomed.com · +1 416-477-1708

Investor contact: Michael Kydd, Investor Relations Advisor — michael@psyencebiomed.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the proposed share exchange and the proposed US$5 million cash investment by Psyence BioMed into PsyLabs and their anticipated terms, pricing, timing, completion and effects; the application of the proceeds of that investment; the resulting shareholdings of Psyence BioMed and PsyLabs in one another; the formation, capitalization, funding and intended role of TIRC; the Company’s ability to secure pharmaceutical-grade drug substance and the regulatory documentation required to support a United States program; the evaluation, funding, design, timing and conduct of any clinical trial in Texas; the Company’s ability to obtain and maintain required registrations, permits, quotas and licenses; its ability to participate in federal or state ibogaine programs; and its expected role in future research, development and commercialization activities relating to ibogaine. Such statements may be identified by words including will, expects, intends, plans, anticipates, believes, estimates and similar expressions.

These statements rest on assumptions regarding government policy, continued interest in regulated neuroplastogen research, the availability of lawful development pathways, and the Company’s ability to maintain licenses, permits, supply arrangements and third-party relationships. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include: that the investments and share exchange or the corporate arrangements described are not completed on the terms or timetable expected, or at all; that required board, shareholder, regulatory or stock exchange approvals are not obtained; dilution to existing shareholders and the concentration of ownership resulting from the share exchange; that the share exchange and the cash investment are transactions between related parties, and that the terms agreed may differ from those that would be agreed between unrelated parties; that the US$6.00 per PBM share price at which PBM shares are issued under the exchange may not be indicative of the value at which those shares can be realized; that the valuations used to price the exchange and the cash investment are not indicative of realizable value; changes in law, regulation or enforcement priorities in the United States, Southern Africa or elsewhere; the continuing status of ibogaine as a controlled substance; clinical, regulatory and approval risk; competition and market adoption risk; financing risk; and the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards. This list is not exhaustive. These risks should be considered together with the risk factors described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026 and in the Company’s other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Nothing in this communication should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

The Company makes no medical, treatment or health benefit claims regarding its proposed products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Health Canada and other regulatory authorities have not approved ibogaine or the Company’s other neuroplastogen compounds for therapeutic use, and their safety and efficacy have not been established through authorized clinical research. Rigorous scientific research and clinical trials are required. Any references to ibogaine stock, inventory or doses are the Company’s best estimates only. References to GMP-compliant mean production in a facility designed, operated and controlled in accordance with applicable Good Manufacturing Practice standards, and do not themselves constitute a representation of formal certification or approval by any regulatory authority unless expressly stated. References to a planned clinical trial describe an activity under evaluation only; no trial has been commenced, and no regulatory application in respect of it has been filed or accepted. This communication is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

Geochemical and geophysical results expand known target footprints and support district-scale exploration potential across TDG’s 100%-owned Toodoggone mineral claims

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TDG Gold Corp. (“TDG” or the “Company”) (TSXV: TDG | OTCQX: TDGGF) reports that interim results from its 2026 regional exploration program have expanded and better-defined exploration target areas at Baker–North Quartz, Black Gossan and Price–Trident. Each target area is characterized by kilometre-plus-scale geophysical responses or groupings of responses, located within TDG’s 100%-owned mineral claims in a corridor stretching northwest from Amarc-Freeport’s Aurora gold-rich copper porphyry discovery in BC’s Toodoggone District.

The results extend the exploration footprint beyond historical showings and support evaluating multiple potential mineralizing centres across an approximately 15-kilometre prospective corridor extending northwest of the Aurora Complex (Figure 1). Integrated soil geochemistry has identified additional gold- and copper-anomalous areas, the potential of which is supported by geophysical anomalies, providing a common technical basis for comparing and prioritizing opportunities across the corridor.

Key results

• Baker–North Quartz: Gold and copper soil anomalies extend across several kilometres, while preliminary modelling identifies separate induced polarization (“IP”) chargeability responses distributed over an approximately 3.5-kilometre span. These responses extend the area of interest beyond the historical Baker high-grade gold-copper-silver mine workings and are not interpreted to be a single continuous body, rather a complex of anomalies.
• Black Gossan: Preliminary modelling outlines a pronounced chargeability response with an approximately 2.1-kilometre horizontal extent in section, associated with relatively low resistivity, mapped alteration, soil geochemistry anomalies and magnetic contrasts.
• Price–Trident: Copper and gold soil enrichment, intrusive geology and a local magnetic feature are associated with separate shallow and deeper chargeability responses across an approximately 1.45-kilometre span.

Remaining 2026 fieldwork, outstanding assays and final geophysical interpretations will support target ranking, with emphasis on geological setting, geochemical coherence, potential for near-surface mineralization and support from multiple independent datasets.

“The significance of this work is the combination of scale and multiple opportunities within one wholly-owned corridor,” said Paul Geddes, TDG’s SVP Business Development & Strategy. “A consistent technical framework allows us to compare those opportunities and identify where the strongest evidence comes together. That provides a better basis for selecting where to focus the next stage of exploration.”

A Corridor-Scale Strategy for Target Prioritization

The 2026 program integrates soil geochemistry, direct-current induced polarization (“DCIP”) and passive magnetotellurics across TDG’s 100%-owned mineral claims covering an area that encompasses TDG’s mineral-resource-stage Shasta project (PEA initiated June 2026), Aurora West and Baker, and extends as far north as the Saunders target (Figure 1). It represents the first comprehensive assessment of the broader corridor using consistent geochemical and geophysical coverage, looking beyond historical showings to determine whether they represent isolated occurrences or surface expressions of larger mineralized systems.

The principal exploration model is a corridor containing multiple intrusive-related hydrothermal centres and associated epithermal systems. Of particular interest are telescoped environments, where younger, shallower gold-rich mineralization may overprint earlier copper–gold porphyry system(s).

The regional alignment of Aurora West, Shasta, Newberry, Price–Trident, Black Gossan, Baker–North Quartz, and emerging targets farther north, defines a northwest-trending corridor with demonstrated copper, gold and silver endowment. TDG’s integrated approach is intended to identify the strongest near-surface opportunities and determine where multiple datasets support priority targets for potential drill testing.

Soil Survey: Expanding Target Footprints

3,455 soil samples have been collected against an expanded plan of approximately 5,000 samples.

Phase I established regional reconnaissance coverage using 200-by-200-metre and 200-by-400-metre sampling. Its purpose was to evaluate previously underexplored ground and identify new gold, copper and pathfinder-element anomalies.

Phases II and III are providing detailed follow-up through predominantly 100-by-100-metre sampling, locally with 50-by-50-metre infill, in areas of interest. This closer-spaced coverage is designed to refine anomaly boundaries, establish internal trends and identify the best locations for potential drill testing.

Results received to date demonstrate that the geochemical footprints around several historical occurrences are substantially broader than the individual showings that originally defined them. Around Baker–North Quartz, anomalous gold and copper values are distributed across several kilometres, extending the target well beyond the former Baker mine workings. Additional anomalous areas have been identified through Price–Trident and northward along the corridor.

The soil data also identify new areas of gold and copper enrichment where no established target had previously been defined (Figure 1). These anomalies may represent surface expressions of previously unrecognized mineralizing centres and allow TDG to evaluate the continuity of prospective trends between known occurrences.

North of Trident, emerging soil anomalies extend the investigation toward the property boundary and occur along the broader regional trend that continues toward Finlay Minerals’ (Freeport JV) neighbouring “Gold” target. The neighbouring occurrence is referenced for regional geological context only and is not necessarily indicative of mineralization on TDG’s property.

Geophysics: Investigating the Systems Below Surface

The 2026 geophysical program comprises approximately 55 line-kilometres of DCIP across eight regional lines, with approximately 48 line-kilometres completed and one seven-kilometre line remaining. The lines provide consistent, large-area coverage across the corridor, extending beyond individual historical showings.

The program also includes ground-based passive magnetotelluric data, acquired to provide complementary information on subsurface resistivity and the possible deeper architecture of the mineralizing systems.

Integrated IP, resistivity and magnetotelluric data help evaluate potential sulphide-bearing rocks, alteration, intrusive contacts and structures below surface. Preliminary modelling shows associations with known occurrences and soil anomalies, allowing TDG to assess target scale and prioritize areas supported by multiple independent datasets for potential drilling.

Target Findings

Baker–North Quartz: Expanded Footprint and Multiple Responses

The 2026 soil survey has expanded the gold and copper footprint around Baker–North Quartz to several kilometres, well beyond the area historically explored around the Baker veins.

Preliminary DCIP inversion modelling identifies several separate chargeability responses across an approximately 3.5-kilometre span. These responses occur within a broader magnetic low containing distinct internal magnetic features. They are not presently interpreted as one continuous body but collectively demonstrate that the broader Baker–North Quartz area contains multiple subsurface targets.

Baker is historically recognized as an epithermal gold–silver system with some porphyry affinities. Previous drilling also demonstrated that mineralization extends beyond the high-grade veins. In 2023, resampling of historical drill hole BK86-10 returned 100.3 metres grading 1.07 grams per tonne (“g/t”) gold, 0.10% copper and 4 g/t silver, including 37.4 metres grading 2.69 g/t gold and 0.19% copper. Reported drill intervals are core lengths. Estimated true widths are 40–60% of core length, and historical core recovery is unknown. Additional information is available in TDG’s August 15, 2023 news release.

The expanded soil footprint, multiple IP responses and historical broad mineralized drill intersections support evaluating Baker as a potentially larger hydrothermal system than indicated previously.

Black Gossan: Kilometre-Scale Subsurface Response

Preliminary DCIP modelling identifies a pronounced chargeability response over an approximately 2.1-kilometre horizontal extent in section, accompanied by relatively low resistivity.

The response is substantially larger than the historical surface occurrence and is associated with mapped alteration, anomalous soil geochemistry and magnetic contrasts. This combination supports the interpretation of a potentially extensive sulphide-bearing hydrothermal system.

Further interpretation will focus on identifying the most prospective near-surface portion of the response and distinguishing possible copper-bearing mineralization from a predominantly pyritic alteration envelope. The extent of the geophysical response does not necessarily represent a mineralized or economic deposit footprint.

Price–Trident: Coincident Geochemical and Geophysical Target

The Price–Trident area contains copper and gold soil enrichment associated with intrusive geology and a local magnetic feature. Preliminary modelling identifies separate shallow and deeper chargeability responses across an approximately 1.45-kilometre span in the broader Price–Trident sector.

The spatial relationship between the geochemistry, geology, magnetics and DCIP supports evaluating Price–Trident as an intrusive-related hydrothermal system with potential for near-surface copper–gold mineralization and associated epithermal mineralization.

The 2026 program has improved the definition of this target and provides a framework for locating the strongest convergence of surface geochemistry and subsurface geophysics.

Greater Shasta–Newberry (GSN): Evaluating Growth and Nearby Targets

In the GSN area, detailed soil sampling is improving coverage around the existing Shasta epithermal gold–silver mineral resource. The objective is to assess whether geochemical patterns, geological structures and geophysical responses identify opportunities to extend mineralization beyond the areas tested by historical and recent drilling.

Newberry remains an undrilled target situated along the same broader corridor as Shasta. Its multi-element soil signature, structural position and magnetic character support continued evaluation as a potential epithermal or intrusive-related target.

The integrated regional program provides, for the first time, a common dataset with which to assess Shasta, Newberry and the intervening ground. This is intended to help determine whether opportunities exist for resource growth at Shasta, nearby satellite mineralization or additional mineralizing centres along trend.

Emerging Regional Targets

Reconnaissance soil sampling has identified additional anomalous areas away from the principal historical showings. Follow-up work is evaluating these new targets based on their gold, copper and pathfinder-element signatures, geological setting, magnetic character and proximity to DCIP responses.

These areas remain at an early stage, but they expand the Company’s target inventory and demonstrate the benefit of assessing the entire corridor rather than limiting exploration to known occurrences.

Next Steps: Target Ranking and Selection

Remaining soil assays, infill sampling, geological mapping and final DCIP, resistivity, magnetic and magnetotelluric interpretations will be combined into a corridor-wide target-ranking framework.

Targets will be evaluated according to the strength, size and coherence of their geochemical response; interpreted depth and geometry of geophysical features; geological and structural setting; potential for near-surface mineralization; and the degree of agreement between independent datasets.

The objective is to develop a ranked portfolio from which to select targets for potential drill testing of:

• extensions to known mineralized systems, including Baker and Shasta;
• potential near-surface, gold-rich telescoped porphyry systems, using Aurora as a regional exploration model;
• near-surface, bulk-tonnage epithermal gold–silver opportunities; and
• potential new mineralizing centres identified through regional exploration.

TDG expects the completed program to provide the technical basis for selecting and sequencing follow-up ahead of the 2027 field season, with priority given to targets supported by the strongest combination of geological, geochemical and geophysical evidence.

Soil Sampling, Analytical Methods and Quality Assurance/Quality Control

Soil samples were collected predominantly from the B-horizon by trained field personnel using standardized procedures. Samples followed documented chain of custody between collection, processing and delivery to the analytical laboratory.

Samples were submitted to ALS Canada Ltd. (“ALS”) in Kamloops, British Columbia, for preparation and to ALS in Vancouver, British Columbia, for analysis.

Analysis utilized method AuME-ST43, comprising aqua-regia extraction of a 25-gram aliquot followed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy for gold and multiple elements. The method provides a lower gold detection limit of 0.1 parts per billion. Aqua regia provides a partial extraction, and reported results may not represent the total concentration of certain elements in the sample.

Quality assurance and quality control (“QA/QC”) are maintained internally by ALS through the use of certified reference materials, blanks and duplicates. TDG maintains an additional QA/QC program through the blind insertion of certified reference materials, blank samples and duplicate samples into the analytical sequence. If a QA/QC sample returns a result outside acceptable limits, an investigation is initiated and, where warranted, samples associated with the affected batch are reanalyzed.

Technical Disclosure

Soil anomalies identify areas of relative geochemical enrichment but do not establish the presence, dimensions, grade or continuity of mineralization. Geophysical anomalies may have multiple geological causes. Chargeability responses can reflect non-economic sulphides, including pyrite, and preliminary inversion geometries remain subject to refinement.

The exploration targets discussed in this release, other than the existing Shasta mineral resource, are conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to define mineral resources at these targets, and it is uncertain whether further exploration will result in the discovery of a mineral resource.

References to nearby deposits, discoveries and occurrences are provided solely for geological context and are not necessarily indicative of mineralization on TDG’s properties.

Qualified Person

Exploration activities at the Toodoggone Properties are overseen by Paul Geddes, P.Geo. In accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Paul Geddes, P.Geo., is the Qualified Person for the Toodoggone Projects and has written, validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release. The Company adheres to CIM Best Practices Guidelines in conducting, documenting, and reporting the exploration activities on its projects.

About TDG Gold Corp.

TDG Gold Corp. is a mineral exploration company focused on advancing its gold, silver and copper projects in British Columbia, Canada. The Company’s projects include Aurora West, the Shasta gold–silver deposit, the Baker Complex, the Mets prospect and the Anyox copper project.

TDG’s strategy is to create shareholder value through disciplined, capital-efficient exploration, technical evaluation, resource growth and advancement of its mineral projects.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Fletcher Morgan
Chief Executive Officer

For further information contact:
TDG Gold Corp.
Telephone: +1.604.536.2711
Email:info@tdggold.com

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

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect management’s current expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs as of the date of this news release.

Forward-looking statements are often identified by words and expressions such as “continue”, “expect”, “is intended to”, “is designed to”, “objective”, “potential”, “evaluate”, “identify”, “prioritize”, “refine”, “select” and “support”, variants of these words and similar expressions, including the negative forms thereof, that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur.

Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding: completion and results of the remaining 2026 soil sampling, DCIP surveys, receipt of outstanding assays, geological mapping and final geophysical interpretations; the refinement of anomaly boundaries and identification of priority near-surface targets; the integration and interpretation of geological, geochemical and geophysical information and whether such information will identify targets warranting follow-up or potential drill testing; the evaluation of Baker–North Quartz as a potentially larger hydrothermal system than previously indicated; the interpretation of Black Gossan as a potentially extensive sulphide-bearing hydrothermal system and the identification of its most prospective near-surface portion and differentiation of possible copper-bearing mineralization from predominantly pyritic alteration; the evaluation of Price–Trident as an intrusive-related hydrothermal system with potential for near-surface copper–gold mineralization and associated epithermal mineralization; the continued evaluation of Newberry as a potential epithermal or intrusive-related target; whether evaluation of Shasta, Newberry and the intervening ground will identify opportunities for mineral resource growth at Shasta, nearby satellite mineralization or additional mineralizing centres along trend; the evaluation of emerging regional targets; the development and results of the corridor-wide target-ranking framework; the identification, prioritization, ranking, selection and sequencing of targets for follow-up and potential drill testing, including extensions to known mineralized systems, potential near-surface gold-rich telescoped porphyry systems, near-surface bulk-tonnage epithermal gold–silver opportunities and potential new mineralizing centres; whether or not any of the targets identified and prioritized represent mineralizing systems of economic interest; whether the completed 2026 program will provide the technical basis for selecting and sequencing follow-up ahead of the 2027 field season; and the timing and execution of potential 2027 exploration, including drilling, and the results thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions, including but not limited to: the accuracy, reliability and representativeness of geological, geochemical and geophysical data, historical information and preliminary interpretations; the completion of remaining fieldwork, laboratory reporting and final geophysical interpretations in time to inform target evaluation and selection ahead of the 2027 field season; the ability of such information to support target evaluation, refinement, ranking and selection; the availability of financing, personnel, contractors, equipment and laboratory services; the receipt and maintenance of required approvals and permits; and favourable site access, weather and operating conditions.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation: the risk that remaining fieldwork, outstanding assays or final geophysical interpretations may not support current interpretations or identify targets warranting follow-up; the risk that geological, geochemical or geophysical anomalies may have non-economic causes, including non-economic sulphides such as pyrite; uncertainty as to whether identified anomalies represent mineralized systems or whether further exploration will identify extensions to known mineralized systems, resource growth, satellite mineralization or additional mineralizing centres; the risk that further evaluation may not support current interpretations of Baker–North Quartz, Black Gossan, Price–Trident, Newberry or other regional targets; the risk that target rankings, priorities and interpretations may change as additional information becomes available; the risk that identified or selected targets may not warrant drill testing or may not be drilled; delays, modifications or cancellation of follow-up exploration or potential drilling; the availability of financing; environmental, permitting, regulatory, access, weather and operating risks; and the other risks disclosed in the Company’s public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+.

The exploration targets discussed in this news release, other than the existing Shasta mineral resource, are conceptual in nature. Geological, geochemical and geophysical anomalies do not establish the presence, dimensions, grade or continuity of mineralization and may have non-economic causes. There has been insufficient exploration to define mineral resources at these targets, and it is uncertain whether further exploration will result in the discovery of a mineral resource. The reported dimensions describe exploration anomalies or groupings of anomalies, not established mineralized dimensions. Geophysical responses can have non-economic causes, including pyrite, and the interpretations remain preliminary.

Although the Company believes the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements except as required by applicable securities laws.

Figure 1: 2026 Currently Defined Gold and Copper Soil Anomalies.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7569cc7d-0fe5-4da4-a2e7-6087d4903549

Esper Joins LT350 Board to Advance the Next Generation of Secure, Distributed, AI Infrastructure for Defense and Critical Infrastructure Resilience

BOULDER, Colo., Sept. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Auddia Inc. (NASDAQ: AUUD) (“Auddia” or the “Company”), an AI-first technology company pursuing a merger that, if completed, would form McCarthy Finney, an AI-native operating company, today announced the appointment of former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper to the LT350 Board of Directors. The appointment represents a pivotal step in LT350’s development as a national security aligned technology company advancing resilient, edge based AI compute for critical government and civil infrastructure. Esper’s leadership and experience strengthens LT350’s strategic perspective as the company advances toward potential commercial and defense deployments.

LT350 is one of three businesses that would combine with Auddia to form McCarthy Finney if Auddia’s announced business combination with Thramann Holdings, LLC (“Thramann Holdings”) is completed.

Secretary Esper’s Perspective on LT350’s Role

“Secure, distributed compute is becoming foundational to America’s military readiness, economic competitiveness, and critical-infrastructure resilience,” said the Honorable Mark T. Esper, PhD, 27th Secretary of Defense. “LT350’s approach to rapidly deployable, community compatible AI infrastructure reflects the kind of innovation our nation needs to strengthen resilience, reduce vulnerabilities, and expand capacity at the edge. I look forward to supporting LT350 as it advances this next generation of infrastructure.”

Why It Matters

LT350’s parking lot canopy based AI datacenter architecture is designed to support emerging federal and allied priorities for distributed secure compute at the edge and the energy resilience required to optimize continuity of critical operations. Esper’s appointment positions LT350 to pursue strategic engagement across defense modernization, critical infrastructure resilience, and energy grid reinforcement while maintaining a clear focus on commercial deployment.

Strengthening LT350’s National Security Positioning

LT350’s modular canopy based AI compute platform is engineered to deliver secure, networked, distributed AI processing across critical infrastructure networks. Esper’s experience leading the Department of Defense and addressing national security and infrastructure modernization priorities provides LT350 with critical perspective on:

• Defense grade infrastructure resilience
• AI-enabled situational awareness and edge compute deployment
• Public-private collaboration in critical infrastructure modernization
• Strategic alignment with emerging U.S. and allied initiatives in distributed inference, autonomous systems, and resilient energy infrastructure

“Mark’s leadership and national security perspective are invaluable as LT350 scales its platform for both commercial and defense applications,” said Jeff Thramann, founder and CEO of Auddia and LT350. “His appointment to the LT350 Board reinforces LT350’s mission to build infrastructure that strengthens resilience across multiple sectors critical to enhancing national security and competitiveness.”

Looking Ahead

LT350 is advancing plans for pilot deployments of its canopy based datacenter infrastructure and intends to pursue initial commercial and defense partnerships following the merger closing. Esper’s appointment to the LT350 Board strengthens LT350’s ability to align its strategy with national security priorities while supporting commercial adoption.

If the pending merger with Thramann Holdings is completed, investors in Auddia will gain exposure to LT350 through McCarthy Finney Inc. (MCFN), and LT350 will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of MCFN following closing.

About the Merger to form McCarthy Finney (MCFN)

Auddia entered into a definitive merger agreement with Thramann Holdings, LLC on February 17, 2026. If completed, the transaction would combine Auddia with three early-stage, AI-native operating companies wholly owned by Thramann Holdings: LT350, Influence Healthcare, and Voyex. The combined company would be renamed McCarthy Finney Inc. and is expected to trade under the ticker MCFN, subject to applicable approvals and listing requirements. McCarthy Finney would operate as an AI holding company supporting LT350, Influence Healthcare, Voyex, and Auddia with AI and Web3 capabilities.

• LT350 is a distributed AI datacenter company with 14 issued patents and 3 pending patent applications covering its proprietary solar parking lot canopy infrastructure platform. The platform integrates modular battery storage and GPU cartridges into the canopy ceiling to convert the airspace of underutilized parking areas into distributed AI datacenters. LT350 aims to build a secure, low latency, cost effective, and rapidly deployable edge network while supporting local power infrastructure resilience.
• Influence Healthcare is a healthtech company leveraging AI, blockchain, and vertical integration to empower surgeons to drive adoption of value based care (VBC) to the surgical specialties. The Company’s mission is to leverage technology and value based enterprises (VBEs) to build an alternative healthcare system that minimizes the corporate practice of medicine, eliminates administrative waste, and enhances the autonomy and pay of health care providers to empower them to improve quality and return the patient physician relationship to the center of medicine.
• Voyex is a travel services platform that leverages agentic AI, an integrated fintech platform, and utilization of charter and private jet aircraft to significantly improve the travel experience. The Company aims to alleviate the leading pain points for travelers of lengthy flight delays and cancellations.

About Auddia Inc.

Auddia, through its proprietary AI platform for audio identification and classification, is reinventing not only how consumers engage with AM/FM radio, podcasts, and other audio content but also how artists and labels promote their music and gain access to mainstream radio audiences. Auddia’s Discovr Radio is the first music-promotion platform to deliver artists guaranteed exposure to radio listeners. Auddia’s flagship audio superapp, called faidr, delivers multiple industry firsts, including:

• Ad-free listening on any AM/FM radio station
• Content skipping across any AM/FM station
• One-touch skipping of entire podcast ad breaks
• Integrated artist discovery experiences

For more information, visit www.auddia.com.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this communication, other than purely historical information, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including for purposes of the “safe harbor” provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, concerning Auddia, Thramann Holdings, and the proposed merger between Auddia and Thramann Holdings (the “Proposed Transaction”) and other matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, express or implied statements relating to Auddia’s and Thramann Holdings’ management expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future including, without limitation, statements regarding: the structure, timing and completion of the proposed merger by and between Auddia and Thramann Holdings, and the expected effects, perceived benefits or opportunities of the Proposed Transaction; the combined company’s listing on Nasdaq after the closing of the Proposed Transaction; expectations regarding the structure, timing and completion of the financing needed to close the Proposed Transaction, including investment amounts from investors, timing of closing of the Proposed Transaction, expected proceed, expectations regarding the use of proceeds, and impact on ownership structure; the anticipated timing of the closing; the expected executive officers and directors of the combined company; each company’s and the combined company’s expected cash position at the closing and cash runway of the combined company following the proposed merger and any additional financing; the future operations of the combined company, including research and development activities; the nature, strategy and focus of the combined company; the development and commercial potential and potential benefits of any products and services of the combined company; the cash balance of the combined entity at closing; expectations related to the anticipated timing of the closing of the Proposed Transaction (the “Closing”); the expectations regarding the ownership structure of the combined company; the expected trading of the combined company’s stock on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “MCFN” after the Closing; and other statements that are not historical fact.

All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this communication are forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “opportunity,” “potential,” “milestones,” “pipeline,” “can,” “goal,” “strategy,” “target,” “anticipate,” “achieve,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “plan,” “possible,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions (including the negatives of these terms or variations of them) may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are made based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections, as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management, concerning future developments and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting Auddia, Thramann Holdings, or the Proposed Transaction will be those that have been anticipated.

These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond Auddia’s or Thramann Holdings’ control, or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk that the conditions to the Closing or consummation of the Proposed Transaction are not satisfied, including the failure to timely obtain approval of the proposed merger from Auddia’s stockholders the risk that the required financing is not obtained in a timely manner, if at all; uncertainties as to the timing of the consummation of the Proposed Transaction; risks related to Auddia’s continued listing on Nasdaq until closing of the Proposed Transaction and the combined company’s ability to remain listed following the Closing; uncertainties regarding the impact any delay in the Closing would have on the anticipated cash resources of the combined company, and other events and unanticipated spending and costs that could reduce the combined company’s cash resources; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance or condition that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement; the effect of the announcement or pendency of the merger on Auddia’s or Thramann Holdings’ business relationships, operating results and business generally; costs related to the merger; the risk that as a result of adjustments to the exchange ratio, Auddia’s or Thramann Holdings’ stockholders could own more or less of the combined company than is currently anticipated; risks related to the market price of Auddia’s common stock relative to the value suggested by the exchange ratio; risks related to the inability of the combined company to obtain sufficient additional capital to continue to advance the development of its products and services; costs of the Proposed Transaction and unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the Proposed Transaction; potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships, operating results, and business generally, resulting from the announcement or completion of the Proposed Transaction.

Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in periodic filings with the SEC, including the factors described in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Auddia’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which was originally filed with the SEC on March 6, 2026, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, and in other filings that Auddia makes and will make with the SEC in connection with the Proposed Transaction, including the Form S-4 and Proxy Statement described below, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors included in other filings by Auddia from time to time. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of Auddia’s or Thramann Holdings’ assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Nothing in this communication should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements in this communication, which speak only as of the date they are made and are qualified in their entirety by reference to the cautionary statements herein. Neither Auddia nor Thramann Holdings undertakes or accepts any duty to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based, except as required by law. This communication does not purport to summarize all of the conditions, risks and other attributes of an investment in Auddia or Thramann Holdings.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication and the information contained herein is not intended to and does not constitute (i) a solicitation of a proxy, consent or approval with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed transaction or (ii) an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy or an invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities pursuant to the proposed transaction or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. 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, and otherwise in accordance with applicable law, or an exemption therefrom. Subject to certain exceptions to be approved by the relevant regulators or certain facts to be ascertained, the public offer will not be made directly or indirectly, in or into any jurisdiction where to do so would constitute a violation of the laws of such jurisdiction, or by use of the mails or by any means or instrumentality (including without limitation, facsimile transmission, telephone and the internet) of interstate or foreign commerce, or any facility of a national securities exchange, of any such jurisdiction.

NEITHER THE SEC NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THE SECURITIES OR DETERMINED IF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE.

Important Additional Information about the Proposed Transaction Will be Filed with the SEC

This communication relates to the proposed merger involving Auddia and Thramann Holdings and may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger. In connection with the proposed Transaction, Auddia intends to file relevant materials with the SEC, including a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Form S-4”) that will contain a proxy statement (the “Proxy Statement”) and prospectus. This communication is not a substitute for the Form S-4, the Proxy Statement or for any other document that Auddia may file with the SEC and/or send to Auddia’s stockholders in connection with the proposed merger. AUDDIA URGES, BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING DECISION, INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS TO READ THE FORM S-4, THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT MAY BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT AUDDIA, THRAMANN HOLDINGS, THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS.

Investors and stockholders will be able to obtain free copies of the Form S-4, the Proxy Statement and other documents filed by Auddia with the SEC (when they become available) through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of documents filed by Auddia with the SEC will also be available free of charge on Auddia’s website at www.auddia.com or by contacting Auddia Investor Relations at investors.auddiainc.com/contact. In addition, investors and stockholders should note that Auddia communicates with investors and the public through its investor-relations website at investors.auddiainc.com.

Participants in the Solicitation

Auddia, Thramann Holdings, and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers and other members of management may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Auddia’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction under the rules of the SEC. Information about Auddia’s directors and executive officers, including a description of their interests in Auddia, is included in Auddia’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with the SEC on March 6, 2026. Additional information regarding the persons who may be deemed participants in the proxy solicitations, including about the directors and executive officers of Thramann Holdings, and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will also be included in the Form S-4, the Proxy Statement and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

Investor Relations:
Kirin Smith, President
PCG Advisory, Inc.
ksmith@pcgadvisory.com
www.pcgadvisory.com