Author: Ravi Shankar

In a preclinical chronic colitis model, Tvardi’s oral small molecule accumulated in the colon at approximately 8-fold higher concentrations than in plasma, at pharmacologically relevant levels, and modulated STAT3-driven disease biology 

Collective findings now span multiple preclinical models of UC, further supporting the scientific rationale for advancing TTI-109, Tvardi’s next-generation STAT3 inhibitor, in UC

HOUSTON, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tvardi Therapeutics, Inc. (“Tvardi” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: TVRD), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel, oral small molecule therapies targeting STAT3 to treat inflammatory and proliferative diseases, today announced the publication of preclinical data evaluating Tvardi’s STAT3 inhibitor in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. The publication provides additional evidence supporting further investigation of STAT3 inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach to treating inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis (UC).

The publication, titled “Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer—STAT3 Inhibition as a Preventive Strategy,” evaluated Tvardi’s first-generation oral STAT3 inhibitor, TTI-101, in an azoxymethane (AOM)-dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) mouse model, designed to replicate the human progression from chronic colitis to colorectal cancer (CRC). Patients with UC are estimated to have a 20- to 30-fold higher risk of CRC than the general population. In this model, the orally administered STAT3 inhibitor reached pharmacologically relevant concentrations in the colon, normalized STAT3-regulated colonic gene expression and modulated proliferative programs associated with colitis-driven disease progression, preventing the development of colon polyps and adenocarcinomas. The chronic AOM-DSS prevention model is the fourth preclinical model of colitis in which Tvardi’s STAT3 inhibitors have shown biological activity. Previously, Tvardi’s oral small molecules normalized the UC hallmarks of immune dysregulation, inflammation and proliferation across three acute models representing distinct immune axes: DSS (innate/Th17), trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS; adaptive Th1) and oxazolone (OXA; adaptive Th2/NKT).

“UC is a multifactorial disease shaped by three interconnected processes: immune dysregulation, inflammation and proliferation, each of which is regulated by STAT3. Current advanced therapies are designed primarily to target inflammation,” said Imran Alibhai, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tvardi Therapeutics. “Even patients who reach endoscopic remission are not disease-free: 98% retain lesions composed of B- and T-cell aggregates, inflammatory infiltrates and distorted crypts associated with the chronic disease characteristics of UC. In this preclinical model, oral STAT3 inhibition achieved high exposure in the colon and normalized gene expression spanning unique STAT3-regulated programs associated with relapse and progression. We believe these findings demonstrate the potential of STAT3 inhibition in modulating multiple aspects of the underlying disease biology with a profile favorable for gastrointestinal indications requiring high mucosal drug exposure.”

Findings relevant to UC include:

• High colon exposure: TTI-101 achieved approximately 8-fold higher drug levels in the colon than in plasma, indicating accumulation in the target organ, at pharmacologically relevant levels for inhibition of STAT3-dependent proliferation.
• Broad effects on disease-associated gene expression: TTI-101 reversed many disease-induced changes in colon gene expression, including genes associated with colorectal cancer and STAT3 signaling. The normalized genes span the principal axes of UC biology: regulators of cellular immune responses, including recognized IBD/UC susceptibility genes, components of the humoral immune response, inflammatory and acute-phase mediators and epithelial-barrier and proliferative genes. Normalizing gene expression across these interacting programs, rather than blocking a single mediator, supports the potential of STAT3 inhibition to interrupt the chronic disease process.
• TTI-101 prevented tumors from forming: TTI-101 prevented adenocarcinoma formation entirely (p≤0.05), while pY-STAT3 (activated STAT3) was found to be elevated in the tumors that developed in vehicle-treated animals. TTI-101 reached levels more than 20 times the STAT3 IC₅₀ (the concentration needed to block STAT3-driven growth) in the colon. These prevention results build on earlier work in the chronic AOM-DSS treatment model¹, in which TTI-101, given as treatment after colitis was established, achieved high drug exposure in the colon and statistically significantly reduced tumor formation.

Addressing the chronic nature of UC: UC is a chronic, relapsing disease driven by three linked, STAT3-regulated processes: immune dysregulation, inflammation and proliferation. Current advanced therapies are directed primarily at inflammation, and placebo-adjusted clinical remission rates remain below 30%. Genetic and pharmacologic studies have implicated activated STAT3 in the severity of colitis; pY-STAT3 inhibition has shown activity across both short- and long-term treatment settings. In three acute models representing distinct immune axes of UC, TTI-101/TTI-109 statistically significantly reduced immune dysregulation, diarrhea, colonic inflammation, colon shortening and pY-STAT3 in the colon. In the longer-term AOM-DSS model, TTI-101 demonstrated activity after colitis was established. In the present study, after ten weeks of continuous dosing in mouse models, TTI-101 sustained normalization of the colon transcriptome and prevented the development of colon adenocarcinomas, a long-term consequence of chronic colitis. Across Tvardi’s clinical data, STAT3 inhibition modulated the same three-part signature: reduced key immune cell populations in healthy volunteers, reduced IL-6, a central pro-inflammatory cytokine that signals through STAT3, and reduced fibrosis score in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Taken together, these findings suggest the potential for STAT3 inhibition to act on the underlying biology leading to and driving the chronic nature of UC.

“Building on our experience with TTI-101, we developed TTI-109 as a next-generation prodrug designed to preserve TTI-101’s STAT3-targeting mechanism while improving drug delivery and tolerability. Our recently completed Phase 1 healthy volunteer study of TTI-109 demonstrated predictable pharmacokinetics, favorable GI tolerability and modulation of UC-relevant immune cell populations, which we believe further supports our development in UC,” Dr. Alibhai concluded.

The publication can be found here.

1. Robinson P, et al. STAT3 Inhibition to Treat Ulcerative Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2025;26(21):10808.

About Tvardi Therapeutics

Tvardi is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel, oral small molecule therapies targeting STAT3 to treat inflammatory and proliferative diseases with significant unmet need. STAT3 is a central mediator across critical signaling pathways that drive uncontrolled proliferation, survival and immune dysregulation. STAT3 is also positioned at the intersection of many signaling pathways integral to the survival and immune evasion of cancer cells. The Company has completed a Phase 1 healthy volunteer study of TTI-109 and plans to initiate clinical trials of TTI-109 in gastrointestinal (GI) diseases pending IND clearance and the availability of additional funding. The Company is also conducting a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial of TTI-101 in hepatocellular carcinoma (NCT05440708). To learn more, please visit tvarditherapeutics.com or follow us on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

Contacts:

For Tvardi:
Tvardi Investor Relations
ir@tvardi.com

PJ Kelleher
LifeSci Advisors
617-430-7579
pkelleher@lifesciadvisors.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Examples of these forward-looking statements include statements concerning the anticipated benefits of Tvardi’s product candidates, including TTI-101 and TTI-109 in UC and of the Company’s STAT3 inhibitors, including in modulating underlying UC disease biology; the potential benefits of TTI-109 as compared to TTI-101, including improved delivery and tolerability; its ongoing and planned clinical trials; the results from preclinical models of UC supporting the advancement of TTI-101 and TTI-109 into future clinical trials; the Company’s plans to develop TTI-109 in UC; and other statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them.

Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, including, among other things: the uncertainties associated with Tvardi’s product candidates, as well as risks associated with the clinical development and regulatory approval of product candidates, including potential delays in the completion of clinical trials or safety or other complications related to its product candidates; the ability to replicate the positive results from preclinical studies or early clinical trials in future clinical trials; the ability to obtain IND clearance for TTI-109 in GI therapeutic areas on the timelines expected or at all; the requirement for additional capital to continue to advance these product candidates, which may not be available on favorable terms or at all; the significant net losses Tvardi has incurred since inception; Tvardi’s ability to initiate and complete ongoing and planned preclinical studies and clinical trials and advance its product candidates through clinical development; the timing of the availability of data from Tvardi’s clinical trials; the outcome of preclinical testing and clinical trials of Tvardi’s product candidates, including the ability of those trials to satisfy relevant governmental or regulatory requirements; Tvardi’s plans to research, develop and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of Tvardi’s product candidates; the estimated patient populations and total addressable markets for the indications in which Tvardi seeks to develop its product candidates; Tvardi’s anticipated cash runway; Tvardi’s ability to attract, hire, and retain skilled executive officers and employees; Tvardi’s ability to protect its intellectual property and proprietary technologies; Tvardi’s reliance on third parties, contract manufacturers and contract research organizations; the possibility that Tvardi may be adversely affected by other economic, business or competitive factors; risks associated with changes in applicable laws or regulations; those factors discussed in Tvardi’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the “Risk Factors” section of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and Tvardi’s other documents subsequently filed with or furnished to the SEC, all of which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as required by law.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZenaTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZENA) (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces that its drone subsidiary ZenaDrone has advanced its defense-focused quantum navigation system, which is designed to enable secure drone operations in GPS-denied and satellite-compromised environments, to the testing phase. Testing is now underway at ZenaDrone’s manufacturing and testing facilities in Sharjah, UAE, where the company’s engineering team is working to validate the system’s navigation accuracy and reliability under real-world flight conditions. Initial testing is beginning with the IQ Nano indoor drone platform in non-GPS environments, with the team preparing to move to field testing on the ZenaDrone 1000, the company’s AI multifunction heavy-lift cargo defense drone, as well as its other drone platforms.

“Operating reliably when GPS and satellite navigation are degraded, denied, or spoofed is a mission-critical requirement for modern defense operations,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., ZenaTech CEO. “As the ZenaDrone 1000 is fielded in defense applications, redundant, multi-layered navigation will be essential. Operators need confidence that a platform can maintain position, navigation, and timing (PNT), even if one system is jammed, spoofed, or otherwise fails in a contested environment. Advancing our quantum navigation system into testing is a key milestone toward delivering that redundancy and mission assurance to future defense customers.”

Quantum navigation systems represent a next-generation class of self-contained, ultra-precise motion-sensing technology that allows drones and other platforms to maintain accurate navigation without relying on GPS, instead using principles derived from quantum physics. As modern defense missions increasingly operate in contested electromagnetic environments where adversaries may jam or spoof satellite signals, these systems combine quantum inertial sensing with AI-based path correction to deliver continuous, high-precision positioning over long mission durations, independent of external signals. Beyond defense, the technology also holds promise for commercial drone operators working in GPS-challenged settings, including dense urban corridors, indoor warehouses, underground facilities, and extended BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight) missions.

Having advanced beyond the initial research and development stage, ZenaDrone’s engineering team is now in the testing and validation phase of the program, with cross-functional teams collaborating on drone integration ahead of broader field trials. Once validated, the quantum navigation system is expected to be incorporated across selected ZenaDrone defense and commercial drone platforms, extending capabilities in areas such as surveillance, critical infrastructure inspection, and defense missions.

Built as an advanced, AI-enabled VTOL heavy-lift platform for defense use, the ZenaDrone 1000 delivers ISR capabilities such as real-time surveillance, tactical reconnaissance, and secure data collection, in addition to cargo transport and mission-critical payload delivery. Its modular architecture enables rapid reconfiguration for a range of mission types in high-risk operating environments, from infrastructure monitoring to operational logistics support.

About ZenaTech

ZenaTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZENA) (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) is a technology company that specializes in AI autonomy drone platforms to transform commercial, government, and defense sectors. Its subsidiaries include drone manufacturing through ZenaDrone, a global Drone as a Service (DaaS) business, and an enterprise SaaS division of software brands. The Company is executing an acquisition-led DaaS roll-up strategy to digitize and automate legacy service industries including land surveys and inspections, driving drone-based scalable and recurring revenue growth. With an operating footprint spanning North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia, ZenaTech is advancing AI drones for agriculture and logistics, as well as ISR, cargo, and counter-UAS applications for U.S. defense and NATO allies. The company is investing in next-generation technologies, including drone swarms, quantum computing, and advanced AI autonomy to capture long-term opportunities in key markets through its R&D initiatives.

About ZenaDrone

ZenaDrone, a subsidiary of ZenaTech, develops and manufactures AI-powered multifunction autonomous drone solutions integrating machine learning, predictive analytics, and advanced computing technologies, for government, defense, and industrial applications. This includes multifunctional drones for surveying, inspections, logistics, security, and defense applications. Its product portfolio includes the ZenaDrone 1000 for ISR defense and specialized cargo, the IQ Nano for indoor inventory management and security, the IQ Square for outdoor inspections and maintenance, the IQ Quad for land surveying, and the IQ Aqua for underwater applications. ZenaDrone operates three global manufacturing facilities in Arizona, Dubai, and Taiwan, and is advancing counter-UAS maritime interceptor drones and an integrated defense system.

Contacts for more information:

Company, Investors, and Media:
Linda Montgomery
ZenaTech
312-241-1415

Investors:
Michael Mason
CORE IR
investors@zenatech.com

Safe Harbor

This press release and related comments by management of ZenaTech, Inc. include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws and applicable Canadian securities laws. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This forward-looking information relates to future events or future performance of ZenaTech and reflects management’s expectations and projections regarding ZenaTech’s growth, results of operations, performance, and business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “aim”, “seek”, “is/are likely to”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this document includes, but is not limited to ZenaTech’s expectations regarding its revenue, expenses, production, operations, costs, cash flows, and future growth; expectations with respect to future production costs and capacity; ZenaTech’s ability to deliver products to the market as currently contemplated, including its drone products including ZenaDrone 1000, IQ Square, IQ Nano, IQ Quad, ZenaTech 2000, IQ Glider, IQ Sphere, IQ Aqua and Interceptor P-1; ZenaTech’s ability to develop products for markets as currently contemplated; ZenaTech’s anticipated cash needs and its needs for additional financing; ZenaTech’s intention to grow the business and its operations and execution risk; expectations with respect to future operations and costs; the volatility of stock prices and market conditions in the industries in which ZenaTech operates; political, economic, environmental, tax, security, and other risks associated with operating in emerging markets; regulatory risks; unfavorable publicity or consumer perception; difficulty in forecasting industry trends; the ability to hire key personnel; the competitive conditions of the industry and the competitive and business strategies of ZenaTech; ZenaTech’s expected business objectives for the next twelve months; ZenaTech’s ability to obtain additional funds through the sale of equity or debt commitments; investment capital and market share; the ability to complete any contemplated acquisitions; changes in the target markets; market uncertainty; ability to access additional capital, including through the listing of its securities in various jurisdictions; management of growth (plans and timing for expansion); patent infringement; litigation; applicable laws, regulations, and any amendments affecting the business of ZenaTech and other related risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Form F-1, Form 20-F and other filings filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on EDGAR through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents management’s best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Oral Presentations Highlight Phase 2 Vision Protection and Enrollment of a Consistent Phase 3 Patient Population Well-Positioned to Replicate Phase 2 Vision Outcomes

ARCHER II is the First Pivotal Trial Designed to Demonstrate Protection of Vision in Geographic Atrophy, with Month 15 Results Expected in the Fourth Quarter of 2026

BRISBANE, Calif., Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Annexon, Inc. (Nasdaq: ANNX), a biopharmaceutical company advancing the next generation platform of targeted immunotherapies aimed at neuroinflammatory diseases that impact nearly 10 million people worldwide, today announced two oral presentations on vonaprument at The Retina Society 59th Annual Scientific Meeting being held September 23-26, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

​Geographic atrophy (GA) is a neurodegenerative eye disease and leading cause of blindness affecting more than 8 million people worldwide. GA gradually destroys the central vision patients need to read, drive, recognize faces, and maintain independence.

Upcoming oral presentations highlight vision protection findings in diverse GA patient populations in the Phase 2 ARCHER study that informed the design and execution of the ongoing Phase 3 ARCHER II trial. Presentations highlight the replication of key baseline clinical characteristics between the Phase 2 and Phase 3 patient populations, an important strategy to position the Phase 3 trial to confirm the potential of vonaprument to protect vision across a broad population of patients with GA.

Oral Presentation Details

“Baseline Characteristics of Participants in the Phase 3 ARCHER II Trial in Dry AMD With GA”

• Presenter: Ashkan Abbey, M.D., Texas Retina Associates
• Date/Time: Friday, September 25, 2026 at 9:10 a.m. PT

“Vision Outcomes in Eyes with Subfoveal RPE Lesions in Geographic Atrophy: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Phase 2 ARCHER Trial”

• Presenter: Mark Barakat, M.D. FASRS, Retina Macula Institute of Arizona
• Date/Time: Friday, September 25, 2026 at 9:13 a.m. PT

Presentations can be found on the publications page of Annexon’s website following the meetings.

About Vonaprument (formerly ANX007)
Vonaprument is a clinical-stage investigational antigen-binding fragment (Fab) designed as a first-in-kind therapeutic to selectively inhibit C1q, the initiating molecule of the classical complement pathway and a key driver of neurodegeneration. It is formulated for intravitreal (IVT) administration, with the potential to be the first targeted vision-protecting therapy for GA. Vonaprument involves a differentiated neuroprotective approach designed to protect photoreceptor cells and retinal function by blocking C1q and the entire classical pathway, while allowing for normal immune activity of the lectin and alternative complement pathways. Vonaprument has been granted Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is the first therapeutic candidate for the treatment of GA to receive Priority Medicine (PRIME) designation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for the treatment of GA.

About the ARCHER Clinical Program
ARCHER (NCT04656561) is a completed Phase 2 trial that evaluated vonaprument in a broad population of patients with GA. Vonaprument consistently protected visual function and ellipsoid zone retinal structure across multiple measures, providing significant, time- and dose-dependent protection from vision loss as measured by confirmed best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ≥15-letter loss. It was generally well-tolerated through month 12, with no increase in choroidal neovascularization (CNV) rates versus sham and no events of retinal vasculitis. ARCHER II (NCT06510816) is an ongoing global Phase 3 trial in 659 patients that was designed to replicate the findings of ARCHER, with confirmed BCVA ≥15-letter loss as the primary endpoint measured through months 15 and 24. A global registration path has been established with U.S. and European regulators. ARCHER II is a single protocol that will also be analyzed as two sub-studies after meeting the primary endpoint. Results from the month 15 primary analysis are expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

About Annexon
Annexon Biosciences (Nasdaq: ANNX) is advancing the next generation platform of targeted immunotherapies for nearly 10 million people worldwide living with serious neuroinflammatory diseases. Our founding scientific approach focuses on C1q, the initiating molecule of a potent inflammatory pathway that when misdirected can lead to tissue damage and loss of function in a host of diseases. Our targeted therapies are designed to stop classical complement-driven neuroinflammation at its source to provide meaningful functional benefit and alter the course of disease. Annexon’s mission is to deliver game-changing therapies to patients so that they can live their best lives. To learn more visit annexonbio.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “design,” “due,” “estimate,” “expect,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “predict,” “seek,” “should,” “suggest,” “target,” “on track,” “will,” “would” and other similar expressions that are predictions of or indicate future events and future trends, or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the potential therapeutic benefit of vonaprument and the timing of results of ongoing clinical trials of vonaprument. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those anticipated, including, but not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to: the ongoing off-treatment follow-up portion of the ARCHER trial and final results from the ARCHER trial; the company’s history of net operating losses; the company’s ability to obtain necessary capital to fund its clinical programs; the early stages of clinical development of the company’s product candidates; the effects of public health crises on the company’s clinical programs and business operations; the company’s ability to obtain regulatory approval of and successfully commercialize its product candidates; any undesirable side effects or other properties of the company’s product candidates; the company’s reliance on third-party suppliers and manufacturers; the outcomes of any future collaboration agreements; and the company’s ability to adequately maintain intellectual property rights for its product candidates. These and other risks are described in greater detail under the section titled “Risk Factors” contained in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the company’s other filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that the company makes in this press release are made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact:
Joyce Allaire
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
jallaire@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:
Christian Vaughn
annexonpr@syneoshealth.com

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — COLLECTIVE METALS INC. (CSE: COMT | OTC: CLLMF | FSE: TO1) (the “Company” or “Collective Metals”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Curtis Riou, P.Geo., to its Board of Directors, effective September 23, 2026.

Mr. Riou is a Professional Geoscientist with more than 25 years of experience in environmental consulting and resource development across Canada’s oil, gas and mining sectors. He serves as Chief Operating Officer of Apex Exploration and is a co-founder of X-Terra Environmental Services Ltd., a First Nation–owned environmental consulting firm.

His background combines project management with environmental and regulatory expertise, bringing a practical perspective to the planning and oversight of resource projects.

“We are pleased to welcome Curtis to Collective Metals’ Board of Directors,” said Ram Kumar, Chief Executive Officer of Collective Metals. “His experience in resource development and environmental management will strengthen the board as we assess our exploration priorities and evaluate opportunities for the Company. We look forward to working with Curtis to establish a practical path forward for our portfolio.”

About Collective Metals

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

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

Social Media 

X	@COMT_metals
LinkedIn	Collective Metals Inc
Facebook	Collective Metals Inc

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

Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

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

SINGAPORE, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd (“Trident” or the “Company”) has received a notification letter, dated September 22, 2026, from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”), notifying the Company that the Company’s market value of listed securities (“MVLS”) has been US$35,000,000 or greater for the last 10 consecutive business days, from September 8, 2026 to September 21, 2026. Accordingly, the Company has regained compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(2) and this matter is now closed.

On March 26, 2026, the Company received a notification letter from the Listing Qualifications Department of Nasdaq, indicating that, based upon the Company’s MVLS for the 34 consecutive business day period from February 5, 2026 through March 20, 2026, the Company did not maintain the minimum MVLS of US$35,000,000 required for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(2). The Company was afforded a period of 180 calendar days, or until September 22, 2026, to regain compliance pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(C).

About Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd.

Trident Digital Tech Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: TDTH) is a Singapore-headquartered digital infrastructure holding company focused on building and operating sovereign-scale technology platforms across emerging markets. The Company’s strategy centers on entering high-growth economies through trusted digital identity infrastructure and expanding across adjacent government technology, digital commerce, cybersecurity, AI, and transaction-driven service verticals.

TDTH’s active initiatives include national digital identity infrastructure mandates, MSME digital tax formalization platforms, national digital commerce ecosystems, and enterprise cybersecurity deployments spanning Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. Through strategic partnerships, joint ventures, acquisitions, and technology-driven platform deployment, TDTH aims to establish scalable long-term digital infrastructure ecosystems serving both public and private sector markets.

With active operations and strategic initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, and Asia-Pacific markets, TDTH is positioning itself to capitalize on one of the largest global opportunities in digital transformation infrastructure.

Website: https://tridentity.me

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “targets,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” “potential,” “continue,” and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in announcements and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors, or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs, plans and expectations, are forward-looking statements. This announcement contains forward-looking statements regarding the Company’s strategic initiatives, expansion plans, projected market opportunities, anticipated platform adoption, onboarding targets, projected revenue opportunities, operational deployment expectations, platform scalability, monetization opportunities, AI integration opportunities, strategic partnerships, potential acquisitions, regulatory developments, government contracting processes, and future business performance.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: materialization and implementation of the Company’s strategic initiatives; potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships; adverse changes in general economic or market conditions; any actions by third parties including government agencies; the expected growth of the digital solutions market; cybersecurity risks; the geopolitical, economic, social and legal developments in the jurisdictions that the Company operates in or in which the Company intends to expand its business and operations; the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

CONTACT: PR & Media Contact:

Phoenix MGMT & Consulting
Press@PhoenixMGMTConsulting.com
888-228-0122

Investor Relations Inquiries:

Skyline Corporate Communications Group, LLC
Scott Powell, President
1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th Floor
New York, New York 10036
Office: (646) 893-5835
Email: investor@tridentity.me

NMPA approval supported by a 200-subject, randomized, controlled study in China demonstrating statistically significant improvement in mid-to-lower facial wrinkles and a favorable safety profile

China represents a growing medical aesthetic market, with the market for non-invasive/minimally invasive procedures valued at RMB 146.0 billion (approximately US$20.6 billion) in 2023¹

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sofwave Medical Ltd. (TASE: SOFW), a global regenerative aesthetics company advancing non-invasive technologies for skin and body, today announced that it has received approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) to market the Sofwave™ System in mainland China. The approval clears Sofwave’s proprietary SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology for use in mainland China to improve wrinkles in the mid-to-lower face for individuals aged 22 and older.

Sofwave’s proprietary SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology is supported by a growing body of clinical evidence and is used by physicians worldwide to deliver non-invasive aesthetic treatments. The approval follows Sofwave’s 2022 collaboration and distribution agreement with HTDK Group, a leading healthcare commercialization solutions provider, under which HTDK supported Sofwave’s regulatory submission and will lead product marketing, distribution, and sales in the region. Sofwave plans to begin shipments in the near term.

“Receiving NMPA approval is an important milestone in our international growth strategy. China represents a significant market for non-invasive aesthetic treatments, and this approval expands access to Sofwave’s clinically supported technology. HTDK has been an important partner throughout the regulatory process. We are now focused on executing a disciplined commercial launch and building the market over time,” said Louis Scafuri, Chief Executive Officer of Sofwave Medical.

Dr. Shimon Eckhouse, Chairman of the Board, added, “The approval of our SUPERB™ technology in China significantly expands Sofwave’s addressable market. China is becoming a global leader in aesthetic medicine, with non-invasive regenerative skin treatments representing one of the sector’s fastest growing segments. Our investment in SUPERB™ technology and clinical development plays a significant role in our commercial success, and we believe it will continue to deliver results as Sofwave grows. The rigorous clinical trial conducted in China that led to this important approval reflects our longstanding strategy of investing in the science of regenerative aesthetic medicine.”

“We are delighted to partner with Sofwave and excited by the opportunity to bring SUPERB to market in China,” said Teresa Chen, Chief Executive Officer of HTDK. “This approval was supported by a rigorous, multi-site clinical study that reinforces the strength of the SUPERB technology platform by demonstrating statistically significant superiority over control, meaningful improvement rates, and a favorable safety profile with no serious device-related adverse events. Sofwave’s growing utilization and recognition around the world reflects the confidence physicians and patients have in the technology. We look forward to the commercial launch of SUPERB in China with shipments beginning in the near term.”

The NMPA approval was supported by a prospective, randomized, blank controlled superiority study conducted at five clinical sites across China. The study enrolled 200 subjects aged 22 to 65 seeking improvement of mid-to-lower facial skin wrinkles. The study evaluated efficacy using two primary endpoints assessed by independent evaluators three months after treatment completion: improvement rate on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and improvement rate on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification System (FWCS).

Key findings included:

• GAIS improvement rate: 95.1% in the treatment group versus 23.4% in the control group, a between-group difference of 71.7% (95% CI: 59.1% – 84.3%)
• FWCS improvement rate: 81.3% in the treatment group versus 17.0% in the control group, a between-group difference of 64.2% (95% CI: 51.7% – 76.7%)
• In the subset of subjects with a Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification System (FWCS) score of 3–6 points (FWCS score 3 – 6) who completed the primary efficacy evaluation, GAIS improvement reached 98.4% in the treatment group versus 25.0% in the control group, and FWCS improvement reached 83.7% in the treatment group versus 18.2% in the control group
• In both datasets, the lower bound of the 95% confidence interval exceeded the pre-specified 15% superiority margin (all P < 0.001), demonstrating statistically significant superiority over the blank control
• No serious device-related adverse events were reported; observed adverse events were predominantly mild (erythema and pain at the treatment site), consistent with the device’s expected safety profile

About Sofwave Medical Ltd.
Sofwave Medical Ltd. (TASE: SOFW) is a global regenerative aesthetics company advancing non-invasive technologies for skin and body. Its proprietary SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology delivers controlled ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis to stimulate the body’s natural regenerative response and is FDA-cleared in the United States for the treatment of facial lines and wrinkles, lifting the eyebrow and lax submental and neck tissue, improving the appearance of skin laxity on the upper arms, short-term improvement in the appearance of cellulite, and treatment of acne scars.

Sofwave’s global portfolio also includes Pure Impact™, which utilizes electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) technology for muscle strengthening, toning and firming. Together, Sofwave’s technologies provide physicians with clinically supported, non-invasive solutions for the evolving needs of aesthetic patients worldwide.

¹ The Chinese Pulse. 2024. “Light Medical Beauty in China: The Future of Skincare? 2024.” https://thechinesepulse.com/studies/light-medical-beauty-in-china-the-future-of-skincare/.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Israeli Securities Law 5728-1968. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about future events and are not guarantees of future performance. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “could,” “may,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements due to various factors, including but not limited to: risks inherent to the Company’s activities; third-party decisions, including by regulatory authorities; changes in economic conditions; and other external factors beyond the Company’s control.

The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Media Contact:
Christina Monteleone
CMB Media
sofwave@cmbpublicity.com

Investor Contact:
Brian Ritchie
LifeSci Advisors LLC
(212) 915-2578
britchie@lifesciadvisors.com

HONG KONG, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 3 E Network Technology Group Limited (Nasdaq: MASK) (the “Company” or “3 E Network”), a business-to-business (“B2B”) information technology (“IT”) business solutions provider, committed to becoming a next-generation artificial intelligence (“AI”) infrastructure solutions provider, today announced a strategic partnership with HashBeaver, designating it as a cloud retail and distribution platform for the Company’s Finnish green AI compute center. This collaboration marks the expansion of the Finnish project’s service scope, supplementing its traditional enterprise client base by integrating with the global Web3 and decentralized physical infrastructure network (“DePIN”) ecosystems.

Establishing a Compute Gateway and Token-Based Settlement

Within this partnership, HashBeaver will serve as a compute gateway for 3 E Network’s Finnish AI compute center. While traditional compute leasing often involves complex underlying environment configurations, HashBeaver utilizes its cloud APIs with the aim of transforming the high-density GPU bare-metal clusters within 3 E Network’s Finnish facility into an elastic compute pool. Additionally, the gateway supports Web3 payment protocols, allowing global AI developers, decentralized communities, and startup teams to utilize supported digital assets, including certain stablecoins and utility tokens. Through on-chain smart contracts, users can authenticate compute usage and conduct on-demand settlement. This token settlement mechanism is designed to connect traditional physical compute infrastructure with the global decentralized developer ecosystem.

Optimizing Global Channels and Broadening Long-Tail Market Reach

By integrating token-based payment mechanisms, this collaboration is expected to broaden the distribution channels and improve the commercial utilization of the Company’s Finnish project, focusing on two primary areas:

• Reducing Cross-Border Payment Friction: Traditional fiat payment systems may create payment and settlement friction for international developers seeking access to compute resources. The token settlement system utilizes blockchain networks to facilitate cross-border payment and settlement, enabling developers globally to access the Finnish AI compute center’s capacity with greater flexibility and potentially lower transaction costs.
• Enhancing Asset Liquidity and Market Reach: Leveraging on-chain smart contracts and the micro-payment attributes of tokens, large-scale GPU clusters can be structured as compute-backed real-world assets (compute “RWA”), supporting millisecond-level metering and flexible resource allocation. This model allows small-to-medium AI laboratories to procure capacity precisely based on specific task durations. Transitioning a portion of capital expenditures into operational expenditures supports broader coverage of long-tail market demand and aims to optimize server utilization rates, thereby supporting the overall return on investment of the underlying hardware.

Highlighting Physical Infrastructure Value and Establishing a Compliance Framework

Despite the integration with decentralized networks, the foundation of this channel remains reliant on 3 E Network’s physical infrastructure. End-users, whether large enterprise clients via fiat channels or Web3 token retail clients accessing through the HashBeaver gateway, utilize the green, low-carbon, high-density compute power provided by 3 E Network’s Finnish AI compute center. Amidst increasingly stringent industry standards regarding the carbon footprint of compute operations, ESG-compliant green compute is expected to maintain consistent market demand.

Furthermore, this “B2B2C” operational model establishes a structured compliance framework for 3 E Network. Under this arrangement, the Company maintains its role as an infrastructure provider, collecting fiat (or compliant stablecoin) leasing revenue directly from HashBeaver. Operations related to retail-facing token payment integration, decentralized network distribution, and potential token volatility risks are independently managed and assumed by the HashBeaver platform. This structure is intended to delineate the respective operational responsibilities of 3 E Network and HashBeaver, with HashBeaver responsible for retail-facing token payment integration and decentralized network distribution.

Management Commentary

“In addition to developing green computing infrastructure, establishing flexible and globally accessible settlement channels is a vital component in enhancing the commercial value of our project,” stated Dr. Tingjun Yang, Chief Executive Officer of 3 E Network. “Our collaboration with HashBeaver is a key strategic initiative. The supported token payment methods can make our compute resources more accessible to the decentralized developer ecosystem. Combining green real-world assets with Web3 payment networks supports the diversification of our monetization pathways, broadens our potential customer base, and strengthens our competitive position in the next-generation AI infrastructure sector.”

About 3 E Network Technology Group Limited
3 E Network Technology Group Limited is a business-to-business (“B2B”) information technology (“IT”) business solutions provider committed to becoming a next-generation artificial intelligence (“AI”) infrastructure solutions provider. It upholds the industry consensus of “AI and energy symbiosis” and has a strong vision in the field of energy investment. The Company’s business comprises two main portfolios: the data center operation services portfolio and the software development portfolio. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at https://3emask.com/.

About HashBeaver
HashBeaver is a cloud platform that connects physical AI computing infrastructure with global users. By virtualizing large-scale physical clusters into elastic cloud resources, it serves as a highly efficient compute gateway. Powered by smart contracts and token settlement, HashBeaver provides flexible, pay-as-you-go AI compute services to developers, startups, and decentralized communities worldwide. For more information, please visit https://hashbeaver.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “assesses,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect the Company’s future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

For more information, please contact:

3 E Network Technology Group Limited
Investor Relations Department
Email: ird@3emask.com
Website: https://3emask.com/

Leading computational chemistry expert to advise MitoCareX as it expands its in silico drug-discovery capabilities

Ness Ziona, Israel, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nexentis Technologies Inc. (“Nexentis”), (NASDAQ: NXTS) (“Nexentis” or the “Company”), a drug discovery company that also invests in solar energy assets based on the RTB (Ready to Build) business model, today announced that Prof. Dan T. Major has joined the Scientific Advisory Board (“SAB”) of its wholly owned subsidiary, MitoCareX Bio Ltd. (“MitoCareX”).

Prof. Major will provide scientific advice to MitoCareX on the evaluation and application of computational chemistry, and in silico approaches relevant to drug- discovery. His appointment supports MitoCareX’s efforts to expand internal computational capabilities intended to inform the prioritization of discovery programs and opportunities.

Prof. Major is a Professor of Chemistry at Bar-Ilan University. His research interests include computational chemistry, computational biochemistry, in silico drug development, enzyme design, molecular simulations and cheminformatics. His research group develops and applies computational methods and software tools to study chemical and biological systems.

“We are pleased to welcome Prof. Dan T. Major to MitoCareX’s Scientific Advisory Board,” said Dr. Alon Silberman, Chief Executive Officer of MitoCareX. “We believe that his experience in in silico modeling and drug discovery is highly relevant as we expand the internal scientific capabilities supporting our discovery programs. Prof. Major’s perspective will help guide our evaluation of computational approaches across selected discovery priorities.”

MitoCareX utilizes computationally guided approaches for drug discovery. The Company is evaluating methods intended to support the scientific assessment and prioritization of selected discovery programs. The Company has previously initiated a drug-discovery collaboration with Boltz, an AI research lab that focuses on biomolecular foundation models and drug discovery workflows.

About MitoCareX Bio Ltd.
MitoCareX Bio Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Nexentis Technologies Inc., is advancing a focused drug-discovery platform designed to translate multidisciplinary scientific capabilities into potential therapeutic candidates. By integrating biology, chemistry and computationally enabled research, MitoCareX supports ongoing research activities directed toward candidate identification and development within its drug-discovery efforts. https://mitocarexbio.com/

About Nexentis Technologies Inc.
Nexentis Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: NXTS) owns 100% of MitoCareX Bio Ltd, a drug discovery company. Additionally, Nexentis adopted an investment strategy focused on European renewable energy assets utilizing a RTB (Ready to Build) business model. The Company is currently the lead investor in four solar projects across three European Union countries, all introduced by Solterra Renewable Energy Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Solterra Energy Ltd.

For additional details, please visit https://nexentistech.com/

Forward-looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it discusses the anticipated contributions of Prof. Dan T. Major, D, MitoCareX’s efforts to expand internal computational capabilities intended to inform the prioritization of discovery programs and opportunities and how the Company is evaluating methods intended to support the scientific assessment and prioritization of selected discovery programs. Because forward-looking statements relate to matters that have not yet occurred, these statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include, among other things, our market and other conditions, history of losses and needs for additional capital to fund our operations and our inability to obtain additional capital on acceptable terms, or at all; uncertainties of cash flows and inability to meet working capital needs; the initiation, timing, progress and results of our preclinical studies, clinical trials and other product candidate development efforts; our ability to advance our product candidates into clinical trials or to successfully complete our preclinical studies or clinical trials; our receipt of regulatory approvals for our product candidates, and the timing of other regulatory filings and approvals; the clinical development, commercialization and market acceptance of our product candidates; our ability to establish and maintain strategic partnerships and other corporate collaborations; the implementation of our business model and strategic plans for our business and product candidates; the scope of protection we are able to establish and maintain for intellectual property rights covering our product candidates and our ability to operate our business without infringing the intellectual property rights of others; competitive companies, technologies and our industry; risks related to not satisfying the continued listing requirements of Nasdaq Capital Market; and statements as to the impact of the political and security situation in Israel on our business. More information on these risks, uncertainties and other factors is included from time to time in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 31, 2026 and other public reports filed with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. We are not responsible for the contents of third-party websites.

Investor Relations Contact:
Michal Efraty
michal@efraty.com

Nevada air permit secured and facility work completed at Eagle Springs

WOODS CROSS, Utah, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sky Quarry Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYQ) (“Sky Quarry” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure company focused on domestic refining and resource development, today announced that it has received an air permit from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection and has restarted operations at its Eagle Springs Refinery near Ely, Nevada. The refinery is operated by the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Foreland Refining Corporation.

In preparation for the restart, Sky Quarry completed approximately $300,000 in repairs and upgrades identified through a TAR360 assessment commissioned in 2025. Eagle Springs has a stated nameplate capacity of approximately 5,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The Company has approximately 15,000 barrels of crude oil inventory on hand and expects additional supply as operations progress.

“Receiving this permit and restarting Nevada’s only crude oil refinery is a major step for Sky Quarry,” said Marcus Laun, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Sky Quarry. “Nevada has relied on fuel refined elsewhere for too long. Our job now is to ramp Eagle Springs toward its full operating potential and make Nevada-refined products a more meaningful part of the region’s supply.”

Sky Quarry presented at a Nevada Fuel Resiliency Committee meeting earlier in 2026 and intends to remain engaged as the state considers fuel supply and infrastructure initiatives.

As previously announced, the Company also supports proposed initiatives to expand oil exploration and production in Nevada.

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that federal lands in Nevada contain approximately 1.4 billion barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil resources. If more Nevada crude comes to market, Eagle Springs could refine suitable barrels in-state and grow with Nevada’s oil industry.

Separately, Sky Quarry continues discussions regarding its previously announced farm-in opportunity at PR Spring and potential collaboration involving its 7-megawatt power generation capacity. The Company expects to provide updates as those discussions progress.

About Sky Quarry Inc.

Sky Quarry Inc. is an energy infrastructure company focused on domestic refining and resource development. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Foreland Refining Corporation, the Company operates the Eagle Springs Refinery near Ely, Nevada, which produces diesel, vacuum gas oil, naphtha and liquid paving asphalt. Sky Quarry is also developing its PR Spring facility in Utah to recover hydrocarbons and other marketable materials from waste asphalt shingles and oil-bearing resources.

For more information, visit Sky Quarry’s corporate website at https://skyquarry.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “estimate,” “potential,” “project,” “continue,” and similar expressions, or the negative of such terms. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the refinery’s operating ramp-up, the availability of crude oil feedstock, the Company’s ability to sustain operations, nameplate capacity, regional refining capacity and market demand, and potential Nevada oil development and PR Spring opportunities. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks related to the Company’s ability to ramp up and sustain refinery operations; fluctuations in crude oil prices, refined product prices, and refining margins; the Company’s ability to obtain adequate supplies of crude oil feedstock at competitive prices; regional competition from other refineries and fuel suppliers; changes in demand for refined products in the Western United States; the Company’s ability to attract and retain customers; risks associated with the operation of refining facilities, including equipment failures, unplanned downtime, and regulatory compliance requirements; the Company’s ability to manage costs and maintain operational efficiency; the availability and cost of labor, equipment, and materials; changes in environmental, health, safety, or other regulations affecting the refining industry; the Company’s ability to maintain adequate liquidity and working capital to support operations; general economic conditions, including inflation, interest rates, and recessionary pressures; and other factors described in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Investor Relations Contact

Sky Quarry Inc. Email: ir@skyquarry.com

Approximately 400 core samples submitted for assay as ESGold advances its 5,000-metre drill program

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 24, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTCQB: ESAUF) (FSE: Z7D) (the “Company” or “ESGold”) is pleased to provide an update on its 2026 diamond drilling program at the Montauban Project, located approximately 80 kilometres west of Québec City, Québec.

As of September 15, 2026, ESGold had advanced 19 drill holes for a cumulative total of approximately 2,030 metres, marking an important milestone in the Company’s 2026 exploration program.

Importantly, drilling continues to intersect alteration, quartz-carbonate veining and locally sulphide-bearing intervals within the geological environment associated with the historic Montauban mineralized system.

Observed sulphides to date include pyrite, pyrrhotite and galena, locally occurring within or adjacent to quartz-carbonate veins, altered gneissic units and structurally affected intervals.

Approximately 400 core samples have now been submitted to SGS Laboratories in Val-d’Or for analysis, with assay results pending.

“Passing 2,000 metres is an important milestone in our 5,000-metre program, but what is particularly encouraging for us is what we continue to see in the core,” said Gordon Robb, CEO and Director of ESGold. “We are repeatedly encountering alteration, quartz-carbonate veining and sulphide-bearing intervals within the geological environment associated with the historic Montauban mineralized system.

“With approximately 400 samples now at SGS Laboratories in Val-d’Or, the next step is determining the significance of what we are seeing. At the same time, drilling continues as we test how this system may extend beyond the historic workings and at depth. Every hole is giving us more information to integrate with the historic mine data, ANT geophysics and our 3D geological model.”

Highlights

• ESGold has completed approximately 2,030 metres across 19 drill holes as part of its planned 5,000-metre 2026 diamond drilling program.
• Drilling has repeatedly encountered alteration, quartz-carbonate veining and locally sulphide-bearing intervals within the geological environment surrounding the historic Montauban mineralized system.
• Observed sulphides include pyrite, pyrrhotite and galena, locally associated with quartz-carbonate veining, alteration and structurally affected intervals.
• Approximately 400 core samples have been submitted to SGS Laboratories in Val-d’Or for assay.
• Nine drill holes have intersected historic underground workings or voids, providing valuable geological control for reconciling modern drilling with the geometry of the former mine.
• Drilling remains ongoing as ESGold evaluates the potential continuation of the Montauban system outside and below the historic mine workings.

Sulphide-Bearing Intervals Observed in Drill Core

Core logging completed to date has identified repeated sequences of amphibolite and quartz-feldspar, biotite- and muscovite-bearing gneisses together with zones of silicification, chlorite-sericite alteration, deformation and quartz-carbonate veining.

Sulphides have been observed within or adjacent to quartz-carbonate veins, altered gneissic units and structurally affected intervals in holes including MM-26-03, MM-26-04 and MM-26-11.

These observations are significant from a geological targeting perspective because they provide direct information on the alteration, structural features and lithological contacts associated with the historic Montauban mineralized environment.

Visual observations are not necessarily indicative of economic mineralization and laboratory assays are required to determine metal grades.

Figure 1: 2026 drill-hole locations across the historic Montauban mine area

Figure 2: A) Hole MM-26-03, box 5 (20.42m to 24.68m); B) MM-26-04, boxes 7 and 8 (27m to 35m); C) MM-26-11, box 5 (23m to 27m); D) MM-26-11, box 23 (101.60m to 105.85m). Assay results are pending.

Testing Beyond the Historic Mine

The 2026 drill program is designed first to confirm the presence and continuity of mineralization along the main mineralized structure, and then to extend beyond the historical underground workings to test additional targets and potential extensions of the system. The drilling program is testing the geological interpretation developed from historical mine information, ESGold’s drillhole compilation, ANT surveys by CAUR Technologies, and 3D geological modelling by Geomatic World.

Each new drill hole provides direct geological information that can be incorporated into the evolving 3D model and compared with features interpreted through the ANT surveys.

Assays and Next Steps

Core logging, cutting and sampling are continuing as drilling advances toward the planned 5,000 metres.

Approximately 400 samples have been submitted to SGS Laboratories in Val-d’Or for analysis. Assay results will be reported as they are received, reviewed and validated under the Company’s QA/QC procedures.

The Company will use the combined geological, structural and assay information to refine the integrated 3D geological model, correlate new drilling with historical mineralized zones and underground workings, and prioritize additional shallow and deeper targets designed to test potential extensions of the Montauban system.

Next Steps

Core logging and sampling are continuing as the drilling program advances.

As part of this first exploration phase, the entire drill core is being sampled and analyzed to ensure that the maximum amount of geological and geochemical information is collected.

The Company intends to use the combined geological, structural and assay information to:

• refine the integrated 3D geological model;
• evaluate the relationship between mineralization, lithological contacts, alteration and structural features;
• prioritize additional shallow and deeper drill targets designed to test potential extensions of the Montauban system.

Laboratory assay results will be reported once received, reviewed and validated in accordance with the Qualified Person’s QA/QC procedures.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Merouane Rachidi, Ph.D., P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About ESGold Corp.

ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU | OTCQB: ESAUF | FSE: Z7D) is a fully permitted, fully funded, pre-production mining company advancing a scalable clean mining model across North America. The Company’s flagship Montauban Gold-Silver Project in Québec is under construction. With a dual-track strategy of cash flow today and discovery tomorrow, ESGold is building a platform for clean, sustainable growth and long-term shareholder value.

For more information, please contact ESGold Corp. at 1-888-370-1059 or visit esgold.com for additional resources, including a French version of this press release, past news releases, a 3D model of the Montauban processing plant, media interviews, and opinion-editorial pieces.

Stay connected by following us on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and joining our Telegram channel.

For further information on the Company please contact:
Email: ir@esgold.com or info@esgold.com or gordon@esgold.com
Phone: 604-885-1348 or 1-888-370-1059 or 250-217-2321

On behalf of the Board of Directors of ESGold Corp.
Gordon Robb
Chief Executive Officer & Director

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the ANT survey, the 3D model, and current and future exploration activities and potential. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions believed to be current but involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. Historical data referenced herein is not current, has not been independently verified by ESGold, and should not be relied upon for investment decisions. ESGold disclaims any obligation to update or revise forward-looking information except as required by law.

These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include, among other things: a possible drill program and results therefrom and exploration activities at the Montauban Project, the ANT-based 3D geological model, its results and interpretation of the same, conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones; the availability of skilled labour and no labour related disruptions at any of the Company’s operations; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled activities; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals for operations are received in a timely manner; the ability to secure and maintain title and ownership to properties and the surface rights necessary for operations; and the Company’s ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.

The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data; general market and industry conditions; and those factors identified under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s continuous disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company’s management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

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

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d89a957-9b14-4d79-840e-cc3ad60b2f6a
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4131a9b9-966b-412c-810b-4151d3176e2a