BAD HOMBURG, GERMANY, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Maxon, maker of powerful, approachable software solutions for creators working in 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, visual effects, gaming, and more, today announced the commercial availability of Redshift for Vectorworks. Additionally, the company announced the beta launch of Redshift for Autodesk Revit®. This marks the next major milestone in Maxon's expansion into the Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) market, with additional integrations planned.Engineered for architects and interior designers, Maxon's AEC solution brings the company's industry-proven cinematic rendering technology, Redshift, and the creative depth of Cinema 4D directly into professional archviz workflows. Designed as a native plugin for leading CAD/BIM platforms, Maxon makes its official entry into the market with Redshift for Vectorworks, which launches alongside the release of Vectorworks 2026 Update 4. The solution enables users to seamlessly move from real-time design previews to high-end, photorealistic renders within a unified ecosystem. Redshift for Revit, now in beta, will launch later this year, with even more integrations planned for 2026 and 2027."Maxon's tools have a rich history in media and entertainment, used by the creative teams behind so many popular Hollywood movies to create Oscar-winning visual effects," said Nicolas Burtnyk, Maxon's Executive VP of Rendering. "Now, we're bringing this same magic to architects and interior designers, helping them translate their vision into cinematic visual experiences worthy of big screens."A New Standard for End-to-End Architectural WorkflowsBuilt on Maxon's robust 3D ecosystem, the new AEC solution provides:Archviz in real-time. Architects can visualize designs instantly in real time, then elevate scenes using the same Redshift technology used in feature films - without leaving their CAD environment. Projects can be sent to Cinema 4D with a single click for advanced modeling, animation, simulation, fly-throughs, and rendering.Exceptional ease of adoption. Early user testing highlights a key priority: effortless setup, intuitive controls, and fast results, especially for iterative workflows where architects need to explore lighting, materials, and composition quickly.Intelligent, production-ready asset libraries. Maxon's platform includes a vast library of assets known as "Capsules" - materials, plants, furniture, and environmental elements - updated monthly and supported by procedural tools and AI-assisted search for rapid scene building and creative iteration. As the Archviz solution evolves, so will its library.Full Mac and Windows parity. Whether teams work on Mac, Windows, or a mix of both, Maxon's AEC solution delivers consistent performance and functionality across platforms. Architects can collaborate fluidly, share files with confidence, and maintain unified workflows throughout their design-to-visualization process.Better value for architects and studios. Compared with market alternatives, Maxon's first-wave AEC offering launches at a significantly more affordable price, while offering compatibility with broader DCC pipelines, including Maya and Houdini.See Redshift for Archviz at Upcoming AEC EventsMaxon will be showcasing the capabilities of Redshift for architectural visualization and interior design applications in live demonstrations at the following events in 2026:DigitalBAU, March 24-26, Cologne, GermanyAIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design, June 10-13, San Diego, CARedshift for Vectorworks AvailabilityRedshift for Vectorworks is now available for purchase through either Maxon or Vectorworks (initial language support for English, with additional international versions rolling out through summer 2026). When bundled with Vectorworks, users can benefit from significant discounts on Redshift, making it the most affordable renderer in its category.Sign Up for Redshift BetaRedshift for Revit is now open for beta; Redshift for Graphisoft Archicad beta will be released later in 2026. To sign up, visit Maxon Archviz.Schedule a Press Briefing and DemoTo schedule a press briefing and demo of Redshift for Archviz, contact megan@grithaus.agency.Download the Redshift for Archviz press kit here.About MaxonMaxon makes powerful, yet approachable software solutions for content creators working in 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, visual effects and visualization. Product lines include the award-winning Cinema 4D suite of 3D modeling, simulation and animation technology; the diverse Red Giant lineup of revolutionary editing, motion design and filmmaking tools; the leading-edge, blazingly fast Redshift renderer; and ZBrush, the industry-standard digital sculpting and painting solution available on desktop and on the iPad.Press ContactKristin CandersGrithaus Agency(e)kristin@grithaus.agencySOURCE: Maxon Computers Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

MBJ Integrated Infrastructure achieves 80% construction milestone, on track for completion in June/July 2026.Truck hauling trials commencing in April 2026, supported by Coal Hauling Trial Services Agreement signed with two third-party service providers.The Group secured two binding term sheets with third-party customers for an aggregate 9 million tonnes per annum of haulage volume, poised to generate a new recurring, toll-based revenue stream that is expected to be accretive to the Group’s revenue performance.At full capacity of around 50 million tonnes of haulage per annum, MBJ should be able to generate up to an additional US$300 million in EBITDA annually for the Group within a few years’ time. Geo Energy is well positioned to capture this new and robust recurring toll-based revenue stream and thereby enhancing long-term earnings resilience.The Group has set a target coal production of 11.5 - 12.5 million tonnes for 2026, subject to the final RKAB approvals from Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (“MoEMR”).ICI4 coal prices have surged by US$13.60 per tonne from 4Q2025 average of US$46.37 per tonne to US$59.97 per tonne as of 13 March 2026, amid geopolitical tensions, strengthening market conditions for regional producers, including Geo Energy.Assuming coal production of 11.5 – 12.5 million tonnes at current coal prices, the Group would be able to generate between US$170 – US$200 million in EBITDA from its coal sales in 2026 alone (excluding MBJ infrastructure and marine logistics segments).SINGAPORE, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Geo Energy Resources Limited (“Geo Energy”, the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) wishes to announce various key corporate updates related to its business activities.MBJ Integrated Infrastructure hits 80% completion; positioned for operational readiness by early 3Q2026The Group’s Integrated Infrastructure project under PT Marga Bara Jaya (“MBJ”), comprising a 92km hauling road and jetty in South Sumatera, has achieved the 80% construction milestone and is on track for completion in June/July 2026.To ensure seamless commissioning of the hauling road, MBJ will commence truck trial tests in early April 2026, conducted on completed road sections to validate operational readiness. Trial parameters will include gradient, load, braking, fuel efficiency and safety on completed sections of MBJ road.To support the truck trials, the Group has signed two Coal Hauling Trial Services Agreement with PT Citra Andalan Mobilindo Cemerlang (“Shacman”) and China North Vehicle Corporation Limited (“CCCC-Norinco”) in January 2026.Construction of MBJ Jetty well underway and nearing completionCompleted section of the MBJ hauling roadThese partnerships mark a key preparatory step toward full commercial operations. At full operational capacity of around 50 million tonnes of haulage per annum, the MBJ Integrated Infrastructure is targeted to generate up to an additional US$300 million in EBITDA per annum for the Group within a few years’ time, reflecting its scale, cost efficiency and commercial potential.Two binding term sheets secured for 9 million tonnes annual haulageIn parallel with commissioning activities of the Integrated Infrastructure, the Group has secured two binding term sheets with third-party coal producers for an aggregate haulage volume of approximately 9 million tonnes per annum.This represents the Group’s first major step in building new, recurring toll-based revenue streams, positioning MBJ as unrivaled key regional logistics corridor. Further commercial discussions with additional counterparties are ongoing.Together with the 25 million tonnes annual haulage allocated for the Group’s TRA coal mine, the Group has secured up to 34 million tonnes annual throughput for the MBJ Integrated Infrastructure.Coal prices strengthen as global tensions drive energy market rallyGlobal coal prices have surged in recent weeks as geopolitical tensions and gas market disruptions underscores coal’s continued role in supporting grid stability and energy security across Asia.The Group's coal assets, noted for low ash and low sulphur, continue to be in demand among regional power and steel sectors for their "eco‑coal" properties.The ICI4 coal price as of 13 March 2026 was US$59.97 per tonne, representing a 29.3% increase over 4Q2025 average of US$46.37 per tonne. Meanwhile, McCloskey reported trades of US$61-64 per tonne for March and April cargoes relating to 4200GAR coal.Targeted production volume of 11.5 - 12.5 million tonnes in 2026In 2025, the Group achieved record coal production of 12.5 million tonnes, exceeding its target coal production of 10.5-11.5 million tonnes, highlighting the execution capabilities of the Group.Subject to final RKAB approvals, the Group has set a target coal production of 11.5 – 12.5 million tonnes for 2026. Assuming coal production of 115. – 12.5 million tonnes at current coal prices, the Group would be able to generate between US$170 – US$200 million in EBITDA from its coal sales alone (excluding contributions from MBJ infrastructure and marine logistics segments)Commenting on these recent corporate developments, Mr Charles Antonny Melati, Executive Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Geo Energy, said:“Achieving the 80% completion milestone on the MBJ Integrated Infrastructure underscores our disciplined execution and moves us closer to unlocking the full value of our energy platform. At full capacity, MBJ alone is able to generate up to US$300 million in EBITDA per year for the Group.The binding term sheets with third parties for an aggregate haulage volume of 9 million tonnes per annum and the trial agreements with CCCC-Norinco and Shacman demonstrate the strong commercial interest in the Integrated Infrastructure and our readiness for operations.The recent uplift in coal prices further strengthens the Group’s earnings outlook as we progress toward our long-term growth vision of becoming a billion-dollar business and beyond.”Issued on behalf of Geo Energy Resources Limited by 8PR Asia Pte Ltd.Media & Investor Contacts:Mr. Alex TANMobile: +65 9451 5252Email: alex.tan@8prasia.com Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

NICOSIA, CYPRUS, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - FinHarbor recently announced a major update to its modular fintech infrastructure platform, expanding its crypto-fiat functionality and introducing a deeper orchestration layer across all modules. The updated platform bundles IBAN accounts, card issuing, payments and crypto-fiat exchange into a single stack, reducing typical launch timelines from more than a year to roughly one month. The company positions the platform as a ready-to-deploy foundation for fintech startups, embedded finance teams and licensed institutions that want to bring a financial product to market without building the entire stack internally.The problem it addressesLaunching a neobank from scratch is still a long and expensive process. Most teams need 15–20 engineers, more than a year of development, and roughly €1.5–2 million before the first customer can even open an account.FinHarbor's approach is to remove much of that upfront work. The platform comes with core components already integrated: pre-built connectors to banking partners for IBAN and account infrastructure, card processing, payment rails, and crypto wallets. In practice, this means companies can start with a working financial product instead of assembling and connecting multiple vendors themselves.What changed in the new releaseThe main change in the latest version is the introduction of a unified orchestration layer. Earlier versions of the platform offered modular components that could be connected together. The updated release adds a shared data model, a single audit log and compliance logic that operates across all modules.Clients now integrate through one API and operate under a single contract, while still keeping the option to replace individual components if needed.On the crypto side the platform has added extended custody capabilities for clients with specific blockchain integration requirements, broadening the range of supported networks and asset types. The compliance and AML tooling has also been updated, making it easier to configure the system to match each client's internal policies and risk frameworks across different jurisdictions.A recent deployment in four weeksOne EU-licensed fintech company recently used the updated platform to launch a full neobank in 28 days, including IBAN accounts, card issuance and crypto-fiat exchange.The first week focused on core infrastructure: setting up the environment, integrating identity verification through SumSub, and connecting to the banking partner's IBAN account infrastructure.During the second week the team activated card issuing and configured the platform's connections to SEPA, SWIFT, and international payment rails provided by the licensed banking partner.The third week introduced the crypto layer – custodial wallets, exchange logic and fiat ramps.The final week was dedicated to integration testing, white-label interface customisation and the production launch.According to the company, the only noticeable delays were related to compliance approvals with the partner bank – a regulatory step rather than a technical limitation.Industry perspective"The new release is based on a simple idea: orchestration matters more than integration," – said Ilya Podoynitsyn, CEO of FinHarbor."Connecting APIs from several vendors isn't the difficult part. The real challenge is making those components behave like a single product – with unified compliance rules, a shared audit trail and enough flexibility to avoid vendor lock-in. That's the engineering problem we focused on solving."Compliance and target usersThe platform includes built-in AML transaction monitoring, sanctions screening and configurable verification tiers. Suspicious activity reports can be generated in formats accepted by regulators, and every system action is recorded in a unified audit log accessible through the admin panel or API.Companies can operate under their own EMI, PI or VASP licence, or work through a licensed banking partner. The platform is designed to support both models and is aligned with regulatory frameworks such as MiCA and DORA.FinHarbor says the platform is primarily aimed at three types of clients: fintech startups launching an MVP, companies adding embedded financial services to an existing product, and regulated institutions – including banks or government organisations – that need on-premise infrastructure.It is best suited for companies looking to launch and iterate quickly on a proven infrastructure, rather than building every component from scratch.About FinHarborFinHarbor is a technical platform provider for launching compliant, modular financial products – from wallets and neobanks to crypto ramps and OTC desks. Built on years of real-world fintech experience, the platform covers onboarding, compliance, wallets, transactions, cards, and reporting, delivered with a microservice-based architecture (ISO/PCI DSS-certified), a robust API layer, and on-premise or cloud-ready deployment. FinHarbor supports fiat-only, crypto-native, and hybrid business models across markets in Europe, MENA, and beyond.Learn more: www.finharbor.comSocial LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finharbor/Blog: https://www.finharbor.com/blog Media contactBrand: FinHarborContact: Media teamWebsite: https://www.finharbor.com/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The 30th Hong Kong International Film and TV Market (FILMART) and EntertainmentPulse, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is taking place from March 17 to 20 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The four-day event gathers global film and entertainment industry leaders to showcase new productions and cutting-edge technologies, while fostering discussions on international market trends and opportunities.The Entertainment Expo Hong Kong, encompassing eight major entertainment events including FILMART and EntertainmentPulse, held its kick-off ceremony this afternoon at the FILMART venue. The ceremony was officiated by Chan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of HKSAR, Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of HKSAR, Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, Dr Peter Lam, Chairman, HKTDC Entertainment Industry Advisory Committee, Dr Wilfred Wong, Chairman, Hong Kong International Film Festival Society, Qin Zhengui, Deputy Director General of Film Bureau and Managing Director of Screenplay Planning Center of the Publicity Department of Central Committee of Communist Party of China, Yang Yong, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Cooperation (Office of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs), National Radio and Television Administration, and representatives from the Expo’s event organisers.The Expo is co-organised by the HKTDC and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), the Film Development Fund, and the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. This year's opening ceremony celebrates both the 30th edition of FILMART and the 50th milestone of the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), reaffirming their role in driving continuous growth for the city's entertainment industry.At the kick-off ceremony of the Hong Kong Entertainment Expo cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF Celebration, Professor Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, stated: “The HKTDC celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and FILMART has been around for half of the HKTDC’s existence, making 2026 a special year for us. Over the years, FILMART has grown to become the world-recognised leading entertainment content marketplace of Asia, as well as a must-join event for the global entertainment industry. For the 30th edition, FILMART is more international than ever, presenting productions of over 790 exhibitors across a record high participation of 38 countries and regions, connecting them with 7,700 business visitors from about 50 countries and regions.”Rising international participation with exhibitors driving cross-regional film and entertainment exchangeThis year’s FILMART has attracted a record number of participating countries and regions. Exhibitors from emerging markets such as Belgium, Myanmar, Poland, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan are joining for the first time. Other participating countries and regions include the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam, bringing broader international representation and further enhancing the event’s global reach. The Mainland contingent has expanded significantly, with a number of new provinces and municipalities participating, including Chongqing, Fujian, Guizhou, Shandong and Sichuan. Various leading mainland film and entertainment companies, including Tencent Video, Bilibili, iQIYI and Youku, are exhibiting at FILMART, leveraging the platform to expand their presence in overseas markets.Major Hong Kong film and entertainment companies are also participating this year. Sil-Metropole Organisation and Mei Ah Entertainment will showcase their latest productions created using virtual reality and AI, highlighting the distinctive appeal of Hong Kong’s culture. Other local exhibitors include Media Asia, Edko Films, Golden Scene, Entertaining Power, Muse Communication, RTHK, Television Broadcasts Limited, MakerVille, i-Cable Communications, and more, will unveil upcoming projects and productions, offering new partnership and investment opportunities for industry players worldwide.A total of 40 events will take place during FILMART. Highlights include the “Forum on International Communication Cooperation and Innovation for a New Vision”, organised by the International Cooperation Department of National Radio and Television Administration of China, and the “International Short Drama Association 2026 Asian Forum”. Major mainland production companies, such as Youhug Media and Linmon Picture Media, will also hold content showcases and launch events during the market. On the business front, multiple cooperation agreements will be signed at FILMART; the Sichuan Pavilion will host a project signing ceremony covering areas such as copyright trading and strategic collaboration. International participants are also actively engaging with the global industry. Thailand’s Ministry of Culture will present the country’s latest film and television projects, while activities organised by ICEX Spain Trade & Investment will explore creative collaboration and co-production opportunities between the Asian and European markets.Producers Connect draws broad international participation to foster cross-border co-productionProducers Connect, jointly organised by the HKSAR’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Hong Kong Film Development Council and the HKTDC, returns this year. Partnering with 10 international film institutions, including those from Chinese Mainland, Indonesia, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Slovenia, Spain, the United Kingdom and Vietnam, the programme brings together more than 100 producers from Hong Kong and across the globe. Through a series of small group business matching sessions, Producers Connect designed to foster cross-cultural exchange and unlock new collaboration opportunities.To further discuss emerging co-production trends, a dedicated forum themed “International Coproductions in an Evolving Film Industry Landscape” will be held tomorrow afternoon. The session will feature a distinguished line-up of speakers sharing forward-looking perspectives, including Peter Chan, renowned Hong Kong director, Janet Yang, Golden Globe-winning producer, and Singaporean Cannes-winning director Anthony Chen, alongside other industry professionals with extensive international co-production experience. Together they will share the latest developments in co-production from multiple perspectives and explore how Hong Kong and Asia’s film industries can broaden their global development horizon.In addition, the fireside chats series will focus on business opportunities across key markets, including Asia, ASEAN and Europe, as well as the market strategies and commercial value associated with intellectual property expansion and the remaking of classic IP. A series of workshops will also be organised to enable industry professionals to better grasp emerging technologies and evolving market models while enhancing flexibility and possibilities for cross-regional collaboration.AI Hub returns with upgraded scale to support mainland enterprises going globalThe AI Hub, first introduced at last year’s FILMART to wide acclaim, returns this year with an expanded presence. Organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong Association of Motion Picture Post Production Professionals, the AI Hub brings together leading mainland AI and technology companies, including Alibaba Cloud, Kling AI, MiniMax, Vidu, Nanjing Xuanjia Network Technology Co., Ltd., Daogu Culture Limited, and more. These exhibitors will present their latest applications and technological breakthroughs in areas such as AI generated content (AIGC), AI-generated short dramas and AI animation. Beyond showcasing cutting-edge technologies, the upgraded AI Hub also focuses on fostering commercial collaboration, supporting mainland technology enterprises as they go global and expand into new markets. Academic institutions, including The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and Lingnan University, are also actively participating, contributing to the advancement of innovation in local film and entertainment production.To further strengthen industry capabilities in AI adoption, this year’s edition also introduces the AI Academy, newly established with support from the CCIDA and the Film Development Fund. Through 18 thematic workshops, industry experts will explain practical applications and emerging trends of AI technologies across the filmmaking process, helping practitioners navigate transformation and upgrading across multiple stages—from creative development and filming to post-production and content promotion.A dedicated panel session will be held tomorrow under the theme “Human-in-the-Loop: Balancing Cinematic Craft and Generative AI”. The panel will feature leading voices from the AI technology sector, including Yuhang Cheng, COO of the Midjourney China Club; Yunan Zhang, Vice President of MiniMax; and Fu Binxing, CEO of China Huace Film & TV Co., Ltd. Together they will explore the Human-in-the-Loop model of content creation, examining how filmmakers can effectively harness AI to enhance content quality while retaining creative leadership.EntertainmentPulse explores film financing and global opportunities for short dramasHeld alongside FILMART, the fifth edition of EntertainmentPulse examines some of the most pressing issues in today’s film and entertainment market, including the global expansion of short dramas, opportunities and future directions for international co-productions, emerging models of collaboration between AI and film production, and the creation and expansion of global animation IP. Through these discussions, the forum provides the industry with in-depth and forward-looking market insights.This year’s EntertainmentPulse also includes a dedicated session on film financing and investment. Industry leaders such as Justin Deimen, Managing Partner of Goldfinch International; Bennett Pozil, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Banking at East West Bank; and Catherine Ying, President of CMC Pictures and Pearl Studio, will share insights on financing trends and strategies in the Asian film industry, examining how film projects and co-productions can enter new markets while unlocking the commercial value derived from film and television IP. As the micro-short dramas boom continues to gain global momentum, the forum also features a dedicated seminar on this fast-growing format. Speakers include Wang Xiangbin, Founder and CEO of DataEye, a Mainland Chinese big-data company specialising in content marketing analytics, and Xiaoqian Chen, Vice President of Mansen (Shenzhen) Culture Media Co., Ltd, a major short dramas platform. They will examine the latest trends in the international expansion of Chinese mainland’s short dramas and explore emerging opportunities in overseas markets. Another highlight is a panel discussion featuring the production teams behind the Hong Kong Film Awards-nominated film Ciao UFO — including Amy Chin, Patrick Leung and Kong Ho Yan — alongside the team behind Unidentified Murder, represented by Kwok Ka Hei, Fung Wai Sze and Lee Chun Kit. Moderated by veteran Hong Kong film critic Thomas Shin, the discussion will explore how Hong Kong filmmakers preserve local cultural characteristics while responding flexibly to evolving market dynamics, opening up new possibilities for the development of the city’s film industry.HKIFF Industry Project Market provides platform for industry exchangeThe 24th Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF), the core section of the HKIFF Industry Project Market, runs for three consecutive days from today (17–19 March 2026) within the FILMART venue. This year’s selection features 42 film projects from 22 countries and regions, representing a wide range of development stages. Among them, 13 are animation or genre projects spanning themes such as family-driven narratives, comedy, thriller, fantasy, action and science fiction, showcasing the diversity and creative vitality of Asian storytelling. All shortlisted projects will be presented alongside FILMART during the HKIFF Industry Project Market, providing opportunities for project teams to exchange ideas with industry professionals, present their latest development progress and creative direction, and foster collaboration across Asia and the wider international film community.FILMART and EntertainmentPulseDate: 17 – 20 March 2026Website:FILMART— http://www.hktdc.com/hkfilmartEntertainementPulse — https://hkfilmart.hktdc.com/conference/hkfilmart/en/programmeEntertainment ExpoDate: 15 March – 19 April 2026Spectacular events: Three founding projects - Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART), Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), Hong Kong Film Awards (HKFA); and five core events: Asian Film Awards (AFA), Digital Entertainment Summit (DES), EntertainmentPulse (EP), Hong Kong - Asia Fim Financing Forum (HAF), Microfilm Production Support Scheme (Music)Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4sPaX8qThe 30th Hong Kong International Film and TV Market exhibition (FILMART) opens today, attracting over 790 exhibitors from 38 countries and regionsThe Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony (17 Mar) officiating guests include: Chan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration, HKSAR (front row; center), Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of HKSAR (front row; fifth from left), Prof Frederick Ma, Chairman, HKTDC (front row; sixth from right), Dr Peter Lam, Chairman, HKTDC Entertainment Industry Advisory Committee (front row; sixth from left), Dr Wilfred Wong, Chairman, Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (front row; fifth from right), Qin Zhengui, Deputy Director General of Film Bureau and Managing Director of Screenplay Planning Center of the Publicity Department of Central Committee of Communist Party of China (front row; fourth from left), Yang Yong, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Cooperation (Office of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs), National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) (front row; fourth from right), and representatives from the Expo’s event organisersChan Kwok Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR, delivers an opening speech at the Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF CelebrationProf Frederick Ma, Chairman of the HKTDC, delivers welcome remarks during the Entertainment Expo kick-off ceremony cum 30th FILMART and 50th HKIFF Celebration The AI Hub, first introduced at FILMART last year to strong acclaim, returns this year on a larger scale. It brings together several leading AI and technology companies from Chinese Mainland, supporting their go global expansion and helping them explore new business opportunities overseas FILMART also brings back the Producers Connect, providing a networking platform for local and international producers to connect and fostering more cross-regional co-production opportunitiesMedia Enquiries:For enquiries, please contact:Raconteur PR AgencyBetsy TseTel: (852) 9742 7338Email: betsytse@raconteur.hkMolisa LauTel: (852) 6187 7786Email: molisalau@raconteur.hkHKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:Serena Cheung Tel: (852) 2584 4272 Email: serena.hm.cheung@hktdc.org HKTDC Mediaroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tcAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Guoquan Food (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (Stock Code: 2517.HK, “Guoquan”) recently released its annual results for the year ended December 31, 2025. The company delivered a stellar performance, showcasing remarkable growth resilience within the community catering retail sector.The announcement reveals that while maintaining steady revenue growth, Guoquan has demonstrated a powerful surge in profitability. By adhering to its “community central kitchen” strategy, Guoquan has successfully converted its scale into a profit advantage through deep penetration of lower-tier markets, smart store upgrades, and the “one-product-one-factory” supply chain model.Strong Financial Performance Driven by Substantial Improvements in Earnings QualityIn 2025, Guoquan achieved synchronized growth in scale and efficiency, with financial performance exceeding market expectations. According to the annual results, for the year ended December 31, 2025, the company recorded total revenue of RMB 7.81 billion, a year-on-year (YoY) increase of 20.7%. Net profit reached RMB 454 million, representing a stunning YoY surge of 88.2%, marking a major milestone in the company’s profitability. The core operating profit (Non-IFRS measure), which excludes non-recurring items, amounted to RMB 461 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 48.2%. Notably, the profit growth rate significantly outpaced revenue growth, reflecting continuous optimization of earning efficiency. The core operating profit margin rose to 5.9%, further improving from 2024.In terms of profitability, the company maintained a stable gross margin of 21.6%. Cost control initiatives yielded significant results, as the growth rates of selling, distribution, and administrative expenses remained below the rate of revenue growth, allowing for the continuous release of economies of scale. Furthermore, the Board has proposed a final dividend of RMB 0.0381 per share (tax inclusive) for 2025. Total shareholder return via dividends and share repurchases for the full year amounted to approximately RMB 570 million.Elevating Network Scale and Quality Through Lower-tier Market Penetration and Intelligent EvolutionIn 2025, Guoquan further solidified its foundation as a ten-thousand-store enterprise, achieving dual breakthroughs in network scale and operational quality. As of December 31, 2025, the total store count rose to 11,566, with a net addition of 1,416 stores across 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities. The franchise-led network structure remained stable, supported by a mature and highly efficient operational system.Lower-tier markets functioned as a pivotal growth driver as the company accurately addressed consumption needs across counties and townships. In 2025, Guoquan achieved a net addition of 1,004 township stores, bringing the year-end total to 3,010 and representing 26.0% of the entire network. These township outlets have become a vital pillar of revenue growth by leveraging tailored product assortments and differentiated merchandising that align perfectly with the consumption patterns of lower-tier markets. Meanwhile, the company fast-tracked its intelligent transformation by completing smart and unmanned upgrades for over 3,000 retail stores during the year. The rollout of 24-hour unmanned outlets has successfully extended operating hours and reached a wider range of consumption scenarios, leading to a comprehensive elevation in both operational efficiency and service delivery.Enhancing Omni-channel Operations to Maximize Membership EcosystemGuoquan has built an instant retail network through the deep integration of online and offline channels, establishing the “Guoquan Instant Commerce” system to consistently enhance omni-channel conversion capabilities. The company’s social media and e-commerce performance was particularly strong, leveraging a multi-tiered TikTok (Douyin) account matrix to achieve over 9.41 billion platform exposures. This digital momentum drove store-level GMV on TikTok (Douyin) to RMB 1.49 billion, representing a significant year-on-year increase of 75.3%.The membership ecosystem reached a new milestone as registered members surged to 64.9 million by the end of 2025, up 57.1% year-on-year. The prepaid card program within this ecosystem yielded substantial results, with the year-end prepaid card balance reaching RMB 1.20 billion, a 22.3% increase from the previous year. This vast and highly engaged member base provides a robust foundation for maintaining stable store traffic and executing precision marketing strategies.Fortifying Competitive Moats through Integrated Product and Supply Chain ExcellenceGuided by its core product philosophy of “tasty, convenient and value-for-money”, Guoquan continued to diversify its product matrix in 2025 by launching 282 new SKUs in the hotpot and barbecue categories. The company upgraded its scenario-based offerings, including “Barbecue Camping Container Set”, “Crayfish Feast Set”, and “Six Popular Hot Pot Sets”, while expanding into the beverage segment with NFC fruit juices and craft beers to satisfy diverse consumer needs across all four daily meal occasions.The company also deepened its industrial footprint as the “one-product-one-factory” strategy yielded significant results. During the reporting period, Guoquan operated seven major food production facilities covering core categories such as seasonings, paste and aquatic products, and beef, creating a comprehensive production capacity matrix. The commencement of the Hainan Danzhou food production base further optimized the company’s supply chain radius. This integrated “production-supply-retail” closed-loop system has substantially enhanced upstream bargaining power and cost control, establishing an impenetrable supply chain moat.Scaling Innovative Formats and Unveiling the 2026 Four Stores Strategic BlueprintIn 2025, Guoquan actively explored new consumption scenarios with the successful rollout of innovative formats such as Guoquan Stir-fry and Guoquan Camping. These ventures have successfully extended the business from ingredient retail into freshly prepared meals and outdoor social dining, effectively unlocking a new growth curve for the company.Looking ahead to 2026, the company will focus on the synergistic development of four stores jointly advancing with concerted efforts—county and rural markets, community stores, Guoquan Stir-fry, and Guoquan Camping—to further penetrate lower-tier markets, upgrade community outlets, and expand innovative scenarios. Guoquan has set clear operational targets for 2026: total store count to exceed 14,500 with a net addition of over 2,934 outlets; maintaining a closure rate below 4%; expanding the registered member base to over 95 million; and ensuring that core operating profit growth significantly outpaces revenue growth. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Vancouver, British Columbia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - March 17, 2026) - Founders Metals Inc. (TSXV: FDR) (OTCQX: FDMIF) (FSE: 9DL0) ("Founders" or the "Company") announces that it has been included in the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index ("MVGDXJ"), the underlying benchmark for the VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF ("GDXJ"). Separately, the Company reports the commencement of diamond drilling at Antino North on its Antino Gold Project ("Antino" or "Project") in southeastern Suriname, with a second rig now being mobilized to the area (Figure 1).HighlightsGDXJ Index Inclusion: Founders Metals added to the MVIS Global Junior Gold Miners Index in the Q1 2026 quarterly review, triggering passive buying from index-tracking ETFsMaiden Drilling at Antino North: First diamond drill rig now turning where field work has delineated ten parallel gold-bearing structures across a 4 km areaSecond Rig Mobilizing: A second diamond drill rig is being mobilized to test the multi-km historical auger gold anomaly in the east of Antino NorthSurface Results: Previously reported channel sampling at Antino North returned 20.0 m of 2.07 g/t Au including 7.0 m of 5.05 g/t AuAuger Sampling Progress: Founders has collected over 4000 auger samples to date in 2026Colin Padget, President & CEO, commented, "Our inclusion in the GDXJ index is a meaningful milestone for Founders and reflects the market's growing recognition of what we are building in the Guiana Shield and brings new passive and institutional capital into the stock.""On the ground, we are equally excited to be now drilling at Antino North. The shear zones we've mapped in the northwest offer numerous compelling first drill targets where this year's surface work has returned high-grade grab and channel results in geology similar to Upper Antino. With the scale of the new Antino North targets, we are also mobilizing a second rig that will initially test the large historical auger anomaly in the east. We see Antino North as having the potential to become a second centre of gravity within our expanding gold camp."About Founders Metals Inc.Founders Metals Inc. is a Canadian gold exploration company building a district-scale gold camp in southeastern Suriname. The Company controls a 102,360-hectare contiguous land package in the Guiana Shield - the largest uninterrupted package of highly prospective greenstone belt geology in the region. Founders is backed by strategic partnerships with Gold Fields and B2Gold and is executing one of the most active exploration programs in the global junior gold sector. The Company is committed to responsible exploration, strong community engagement, and disciplined capital allocation as it advances Suriname's next major gold camp.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,Per: "Colin Padget"Colin PadgetPresident, Chief Executive Officer, and DirectorContact InformationKatie MacKenzie, Vice President, Corporate DevelopmentTel: +1 306 537 8903 | katiem@fdrmetals.comCautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking InformationThis press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding long term value creation and the Company's prospects. Forward-looking information can generally be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations indicating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" occur or be achieved.Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and reasonable assumptions but are subject to business, market, and economic risks, uncertainties, and contingencies that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied, including: general business and economic uncertainties; exploration results; mining industry risks; and other factors described in the Company's most recent annual management discussion and analysis. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, other factors may cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.All material information on Founders Metals can be found at www.sedarplus.ca.Quality Assurance and ControlSamples were analyzed at FILAB Suriname, a Bureau Veritas Certified Laboratory in Paramaribo, Suriname (a commercial certified laboratory under ISO 9001:2015). Samples are crushed to 75% passing 2.35 mm screen, riffle split (700 g) and pulverized to 85% passing 88 µm. Samples were analyzed using a 50 g fire assay (50 g aliquot) with an Atomic Absorption (AA) finish. For samples that return assay values over 5.0 grams per tonne (g/t), another cut was taken from the original pulp and fire assayed with a gravimetric finish. Founders Metals inserts blanks and certified reference standards in the sample sequence for quality control. External QA-QC checks are performed at ALS Global Laboratories (Geochemistry Division) in Lima, Peru (an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited facility). A secure chain of custody is maintained in transporting and storing of all samples. Drill intervals with visible gold are assayed using metallic screening. Rock chip samples from outcrop/bedrock are selective by nature and may not be representative of the mineralization hosted on the project.Qualified PersonsThe technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo., an independent qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.Figure 1: Antino plan map showing progress of 2026 auger geochemical survey To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7574/288812_b62e33bd746b88f9_001full.jpgTo view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/288812 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com