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First Phosphate CEO to Present at Toronto Global Forum 2025 of the International Economic Forum of the Americas

Saguenay, Quebec – Newsfile Corp. – October 15, 2025 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its CEO, John Passalacqua, will be presenting at the Toronto Global Forum 2025 of the International Economic Forum of the Americas (“IEFA”).

Mr. Passalacqua will be providing remarks during the panel discussion titled: “Securing the Mineral Backbone of the Economy at 10:00 am EST on Thursday October 16th, 2025: https://www.torontoglobalforum.com.

Mr. Passalacqua will be speaking to the greatest risks and bottlenecks facing North American defense supply chains, from exploration and permitting to refining and integration into advanced manufacturing. He will address the policy, infrastructure, and investment strategies that are most urgent to secure and scale reliable supply chains for defense-critical minerals, while aligning with allied cooperation frameworks.

On July 7, 2025, the Company announced that it had successfully produced commercial-grade lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) 18650 format battery cells (“PHOS – LFP 18650 Battery Cells”) in a six-step process using North American—sourced critical minerals, advancing its mission to localize the LFP battery supply chain in North America. The high-purity phosphoric acid and iron powder for the battery cells were produced from rare igneous anorthosite rock extracted from the First Phosphate Bégin-Lamarche property in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada.

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About the International Economic Forum of the Americas and the Toronto Global Forum
The International Economic Forum of the Americas (IEFA) is an international not-for-profit organization created in 1995 to promote an exchange of views and perspectives on pressing economic issues of our times among world leaders, renowned experts and business executives. The IEFA organizes several high-level conferences per year and has grown to become a landmark organization bringing together more than 10,000 delegates and 600 speakers every year. The Toronto Global Forum (TGF) was launched in 2006 and gathers international thought leaders across business, government and civil society to discuss the major challenges, and subsequent opportunities that the world economy is facing today.

About First Phosphate Corp.
First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) is a mineral development and cleantech company dedicated to building and onshoring a vertically integrated mine-to-market LFP battery supply chain for North America. Target markets include energy storage, data centers, robotics, mobility and defence.

First Phosphate’s flagship Bégin-Lamarche Property in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, Canada is one of North America’s rare igneous phosphate resources, yielding high-purity phosphate with minimal impurities.

For additional information, please contact:
Armand MacKenzie
President
armand@firstphosphate.com
Tel : +1 (514) 618-5289

Investor Relations: investor@firstphosphate.com
Media Relations: media@firstphosphate.com
Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com

Follow First Phosphate:
X : https://x.com/FirstPhosphate
LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate

Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statement
This release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking information”. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to the Company’s plans for vertical integration into North American supply chains. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include development and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions; there being no significant disruptions affecting the activities of the Company or inability to access required project inputs; permitting and development of the projects being consistent with the Company’s expectations; the accuracy of the current mineral resource estimates for the Company and results of metallurgical testing; certain price assumptions for P2O5 and Fe2O3; inflation and prices for Company project inputs being approximately consistent with anticipated levels; the Company’s relationship with First Nations and other Indigenous parties remaining consistent with the Company’s expectations; the Company’s relationship with other third party partners and suppliers remaining consistent with the Company’s expectations; government relations and actions being consistent with Company expectations. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this press release. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. All forward-looking information contained in this release is qualified by these cautionary statements.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

NYSE Content Advisory: Pre-Market Update + Embraer celebrates 25th listing anniversary

NEW YORK, Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) provides a daily pre-market update directly from the NYSE Trading Floor. Access today’s NYSE Pre-market update for market insights before trading begins. 

 

NYSE_Market_Update_Oct_15

Ashley Mastronardi delivers the pre-market update on October 15th

  • Stocks are up Wednesday morning as investors digest the latest quarterly earnings and monitor trade developments between the U.S. and China. NYSE-listed Bank of America and Morgan Stanley released their earnings earlier this morning.
  • President Trump threatened to terminate business with China having to do with cooking oil, after China said it will refuse to buy U.S. soybeans. Traders will continue to monitor the latest developments out of Washington.
  • Health tech company Oura revealed that it raised more than $900 million in a series E funding round, elevating its valuation to $11 billion.

Opening Bell
HPE (NYSE: HPE) prepares to share its long-term strategy to accelerate shareholder value

Closing Bell
Planet Labs (NYSE: PL) celebrates its 2025 investor day

Click here to download the NYSE TV App

 

Compass Mining Energizes 20 MW at New Site in Texas

Through the new Texas site, Compass Mining expands access to enterprise-grade Bitcoin mining infrastructure across North America

WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Compass Mining, a leading provider of Bitcoin mining infrastructure and services, today announced the full energization of a new 20-megawatt (MW) partner site in Texas. The deployment underscores Compass Mining’s position as a leader in operations-as-a-service, building stronger expertise in complex implementations and grid dynamics, which is increasingly important for its enterprise and institutional clients.

“The mining machines and data center infrastructure are only half of the story. To run a successful Bitcoin mining operation, it’s essential to have operational excellence and strategic management,” said Karoon Mackenchery, Senior Director of Mining Services at Compass Mining. “With four power markets under our belt, we bring the expertise to deliver more control, competitive rates, and reliable uptime for retail and institutional miners alike. From construction to day-to-day operations, Compass Mining is setting the standard for turnkey mining infrastructure.”

The new site is part of ERCOT (The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc.), one of the most dynamic and competitive energy environments in the world. With a significant presence in ERCOT, Compass Mining also operates in the PJM Interconnection (PJM), the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), and the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) power markets, making it one of the few hosting providers operating efficiently across so many regions.

Compass Mining recently announced expansions in Minnesota, Iowa, Texas, and a new off-grid site in Wyoming. As Bitcoin’s global hashrate surpassed 1 ZH/s, Compass Mining now manages over 160 MW in total capacity and continues to grow alongside the network while providing individual miners and institutional clients with transparency and optionality.

About Compass Mining

Compass Mining is a Bitcoin mining infrastructure and operations-as-a-service company. The Compass Mining platform enables individuals, institutions, and facility owners to purchase ASIC hardware, host machines at top-tier data centers, and access professional site-management, logistics, and repair services. With more than 160 MW under management and a global network of facilities, Compass Mining provides end-to-end solutions — from procurement and deployment to uptime optimization and operational oversight. The company is committed to transparency, reliability, and making Bitcoin mining more accessible.

To learn more or start mining with Compass Mining, visit compassmining.io

Media Contact

BlocksBridge Consulting
compass@blocksbridge.com

GROWNSY Wraps Up October Prime Day with Strong Performance, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Smart Parenting

NEW YORK, Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GROWNSY, a fast-growing baby care brand trusted by parents across the U.S., concluded Amazon’s October Prime Day with strong performance and outstanding recognition across key baby product categories. Three of its flagship products—Baby Nasal Aspirator, Baby Bottle Warmer with Timer, and Baby Food Maker—earned Amazon Best Seller badges in their respective categories:
#1 in Baby Nasal Aspirators, #2 in Bottle Warmers, and #1 in Baby Food Mills.

These achievements highlight GROWNSY’s growing influence among parents who seek practical, safe, and intelligently designed products to simplify everyday care routines.


Smart Products That Bring Comfort and Ease to Parenting

Each Best Seller exemplifies GROWNSY’s thoughtful approach to solving everyday parenting challenges:

  • GROWNSY Baby Nasal Aspirator — Provides gentle yet powerful relief for babies with nasal congestion. Its patented backflow-prevention design avoids contamination, while the electric suction offers a cleaner, more hygienic experience than traditional aspirators.
  • GROWNSY Baby Bottle Warmer with Timer — Uses rapid steam heating for precise warming, combining heating, constant-temperature maintenance, and sterilization in one device. The built-in ambient temperature sensor ensures accurate heat control, making night feedings faster and easier.
  • GROWNSY Baby Food Maker — Steams and blends fresh ingredients in minutes, allowing parents to prepare healthy, homemade meals effortlessly. Its food-grade materials and compact design save time and space while supporting better nutrition.

Recognized by Leading Parenting Media

During Prime Day, GROWNSY’s popularity was amplified by recognition from trusted media outlets. SheKnows featured the GROWNSY Bottle Warmer as a #1 bestseller in its category, praising its fast three-minute heating and dependable “keep warm” function. WhatToExpect spotlighted the GROWNSY Bottle Washer as a “splurge-worthy” deal, quoting a parent who said, “I LOVE it … so much better than all the hand washing I did with my first.” Meanwhile, BuzzFeed recommended the GROWNSY Bottle Washer Pro for its HEPA-filtered washing and sterilizing system that keeps items sterile for up to 72 hours—”a sanity-saver” for busy parents.

Connecting with the Parenting Community

Beyond sales, GROWNSY also deepened its connection with parents through light, interactive campaigns on social media. A week-long Prime Day giveaway and community Q&A reached over 100,000 mothers and generated thousands of engagements, while a seasonal post inviting moms to share their “autumn little treats” drew lively participation. These interactions reflected the brand’s warm, approachable voice and growing resonance among modern caregivers.

As the brand looks ahead to the holiday season, GROWNSY remains dedicated to creating safe, intuitive, and science-driven baby care solutions that help parents save time, reduce stress, and focus on what matters most—building loving, confident families.

Contact:
Chenwen Guo
awen@grownsy.com

Now Shipping: XGIMI Launches Its Brightest 4K Projectors, The HORIZON 20 Series

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — After years of redefining projection, XGIMI continues to shape the future of home entertainment. Fresh off its debut at IFA 2025, the HORIZON 20 Series is now available, giving consumers access to the brand’s most advanced home projectors yet through XGIMI.com and Amazon.

The HORIZON 20 Series includes three models – HORIZON 20, HORIZON 20 Pro, and HORIZON 20 Max – each delivering exceptional 4K visuals, cinema-grade brightness, and true color accuracy powered by XGIMI’s all-new X-Master Red Ring Lens, the brand’s most advanced optical system to date. The flagship HORIZON 20 Max achieves a stunning 5700 ISO lumens, making it XGIMI’s brightest consumer projector yet.

All models support Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and DTS:X for an authentic cinematic experience. Built for gamers and creators alike, the series offers 1ms input lag, 240Hz refresh rates, and native Netflix compatibility, alongside Harman/Kardon-tuned speakers that deliver rich, balanced sound with remarkable clarity.

The HORIZON 20 Series is available now, starting at $1,699 for the HORIZON 20, $2,499 for the HORIZON 20 Pro, and $2,999 for the HORIZON 20 Max. For a limited time, XGIMI is offering up to $600 off during its open sales promotion on the full lineup

About XGIMI: Since 2013, the state-of-the-art XGIMI projectors have helped countless people worldwide to create genuinely immersive audio-visual experiences. Working with reputable partners like Google, Harman Kardon, and Texas Instruments, XGIMI builds all-in-one entertainment devices, perfected due to their user-oriented philosophy. Through industry-leading innovation, streamlined setups, and unique designs, XGIMI always strives to develop the best home and portable projectors for everyone to enjoy. Learn more at XGIMI Projector Technology.

 

UNPACK ’26: EXPEDIA, WOTIF, AND STAYZ REVEAL HOW TRAVELLERS WILL EXPLORE THE WORLD IN 2026

Expedia’s first-ever Smart Travel Health Check tackles tourism’s biggest challenge: overcrowding.

From sports you’ve never heard of, from book club retreats, slow down towns to farm stays, 2026 trends flip the script on traditional getaways.

SYDNEY, Oct. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Expedia Group released Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel™. The annual global report highlights shifts in traveller behaviour and the destinations set to dominate itineraries in 2026.

From Destinations of the Year to slow down towns and reading retreats, to Banana Ball and farm stays, the seven trends in Unpack ’26 offer a look at the future of travel. Each trend is backed by first-party data and insights from 24,000 travellers across 18 countries.*

Expedia — Destinations of the Year: Expedia’s 2026 Destinations of the Year list — powered by real-time data from millions of daily visitors to the Expedia site and app — highlights where global interest is rising fast, even in destinations that haven’t yet gone viral.

Six of these hotspots also meet the criteria for Expedia’s new Smart Travel Health Check — a first-in-travel framework from Expedia, inspired by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The Smart Travel Health Check recognises destinations that offer meaningful travel experiences and proactively manage tourism in a sustainable way, helping to ease the strain on the world’s most overvisited cities.

Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, added, “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations. With 1 billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn’t just a travel marketplace — we’re a catalyst for positive change. We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”

“Expedia responded to WTTC’s Call to Action on Destination Stewardship with the launch of the Smart Travel Health Check. This innovative initiative reflects the urgent need to embrace responsible growth models that safeguard communities, protect cultural and natural heritage, and ensure the long-term resilience of destinations,” added Christopher Imbsen, Vice President Policy at WTTC. “By applying WTTC’s framework, Expedia is celebrating destinations that work collaboratively to empower residents, strengthen stewardship, and deliver richer, more meaningful travel experiences.”

2026’s Destinations of the Year  Beyond the Crowds*

Destination

% Search Increase

Destination

% Search Increase

Big Sky, Montana, U.S. ✔️

+92 %

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, U.S.

+45 %

Okinawa, Japan ✔️

+71 %

Ucluelet, Canada ✔️

+44 %

Sardinia, Italy

+63 %

Cotswolds, U.K. ✔️

+39 %

Phu Quoc, Vietnam 

+53 %

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

+30 %

Savoie, France ✔️

+51 %

Hobart, Australia ✔️

+25 %

Explore each Destination of the Year here.

Expedia — Fan Voyage: 2026 is a huge year for international sports, but there’s a new wave of fanaticism all about immersive, local experiences. Expedia’s Fan Voyage trend reveals a surge in uniquely regional sporting experiences, with 59% saying they’re likely to attend one while on a trip.

From sumo wrestling in Japan to Muay Thai in Thailand, Aussie travellers — particularly Gen Z and Millennial Aussie travellers (74%) — are seeking front-row seats to learn about timeless traditions. Fan Voyage shows it’s not just about the game — it’s about community, culture, and feeling like a local.

2026’s Hottest Fan Voyage Tickets*

Sport

Location

Sport

Location

Sumo Wrestling

Japan

Banana Ball

U.S.

Muay Thai

Thailand

Capoeira

Brazil

Curling

Canada

Lucha Libre

Mexico

Baseball

South Korea

Hurling

Ireland

Australian Rules Football

Australia

Caber Tossing

Scotland, U.K.

Check out how to get seats to Fan Voyage events here.

Wotif — Parks with Spark: From glamping tents with designer touches to resort-style pools and sleek amenities, Aussie holiday parks are stepping up — and travellers are taking notice. Demand for holiday parks on Wotif is up 13% year-on-year, as more Aussies seek elevated experiences without straying from the classic holiday park charm*.

Now, it’s not just families rolling into holiday parks. With modern upgrades attracting a wider crowd, couples now make up the largest group of holiday park guests (56%), followed by families (40%) — notably, over half of these couples are Gen Z and Millennials.

2026’s Parks with Spark:

Check out the Aussie holiday parks turning heads here

Wotif Slow Down Towns: Aussies are trading hustle for harmony. In 2026, half of Aussies (50%) say they’ll swap the stress of over-planned trips for peaceful escapes in smaller towns, where the pace is gentler, there are smaller crowds, (80%), and everything they need is close by (78%).

Travellers will even feel better for it with most Aussies reporting that they leave a slower-paced destination feeling relaxed (67%), less stressed (54%) and truly recharged (52%).

Wotif’s 2026 Slow Down Towns

Explore the towns that are slowing it down here.

Stayz — Readaways: Trips in 2026 are getting “lit” — literally. Stayz reveals 94% of Aussie travellers are seeking getaways focused on reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones. As #BookTok continues to dominate social media, interest in literary-themed travels is surging with Pinterest searches for “book club retreat ideas” up 265%, and reading-related terms in guest reviews nearly tripling.*

Recommended Rentals for Readaways:

See more inspiration on Readaways here.

Stayz — Farm Charm: The slow travel movement is gaining ground, with 91% of Aussie travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm. Mentions of farm-related experiences in guest reviews have also surged 300% year-over-year,* signaling how travellers are searching for starlit skies over busy city lights in 2026.

Farm Charm is about unplugging and reconnecting with nature. Top activities for travellers include:

  • Hiking trails (71%)
  • Animal interactions such as collecting eggs, feeding animals, or birdwatching (63%)
  • Relaxing hobbies such as crafting, knitting or reading (47%)

Top Farm Charm Finds:

Explore more properties with Farm Charm here.

The 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast: Set-Jetting is back — and bigger than ever. First spotlighted by Expedia in 2022, this trend of travelling to destinations inspired by TV shows and movies is now projected to become a potential $8 billion industry in the U.S. alone.* Interest is accelerating with 44% of Aussie travellers saying their desire to take a set-jetting trip has increased in the past year.

With The White Lotus’s next location in France still to be officially confirmed, the 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast reveals the next wave of cinematic escapes — from the U.K.’s rolling hills of Yorkshire to the epic coastlines of Croatia. Set-Jetting is turning binge-worthy moments into bucket-list adventures.

The 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast

Location

Film/Series Inspiration

Yorkshire, U.K.

Wuthering Heights and Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

Tuscany, Italy

Jay Kelly

Samoa, Polynesia

Moana (Live Action)

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

People We Meet on Vacation

Peloponnese, Greece

The Odyssey

Los Angeles, U.S.

Nobody Wants This

Wellington, New Zealand

Avatar: Fire & Ash

Palawan, Philippines

The Last Resort

Read more about Set-Jetting here.

To learn more about the travel trends in Unpack ’26, visit www.expedia.com.au/unpack26. Visit www.expedia.com.au/newsroom for Unpack ’26 assets and more news from Expedia, Wotif, and Stayz.

Notes to Editor:

Third-Party Methodology
Third-party research was conducted by market research partner OnePoll in accordance with the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. The Study was conducted online among 24,000 adult respondents across 18 countries, including 1,000 adult respondents in Australia, who are planning domestic or international travel in the next three years. Gen Z respondents are defined as those aged 18 to 24, while the combined Gen Z and Millennial group includes all respondents aged 18 to 44. 

Expedia 2026 Destinations of the Year: Beyond the Crowds
Destinations of the Year list based on increases in flight + accommodation searches on Expedia for travel on January 1-December 31, 2024 vs. January 1-December 31, 2025.

✔️ denotes destinations that meet the Smart Travel Health Check framework, aligned with World Travel + Tourism Council (WTTC) principles. The Smart Travel Health Check helps travellers identify destinations that offer rich cultural and natural experiences without the overcrowding seen in many of the world’s most popular cities.

Expedia Fan Voyage
Top unique sporting activities based on global consumer survey data.

Wotif Parks with Spark
Based on holiday park demand on Wotif: 1 September 2023–31 May 2024 vs. 1 September 2024–1 April 2025

Stayz Readaways
Pinterest data based on Pinterest 2025 Summer Trend Report. 

Top Readaways on Stayz based on global guest reviews with reading-related terms such as “reading retreat” or “library.”

Stayz Farm Charm
Stayz guest review increase based on global data from May 2023 to Apr 2024 vs. May 2024-Apr 2025.  

Top Farm Charm finds on Stayz based on global guest reviews with farm-related terms such as “farm” or “homestead.”

2026 Set-Jetting Forecast
Set-Jetting projection based on consumer survey data showing 13% of US travellers have booked a trip after seeing a location featuring on-screen. Of these, 25% noted they spent between $1,000 and $2,000 on the trip. If applied to the U.S. adult population (~260m), the potential projected impact on the travel industry is $8.45bn.

About Unpack ’26

Q: What is Unpack ’26?
A: Unpack ’26 is the annual global travel insights report from Expedia Group, building on years of trend forecasting and traveller behavior analysis. It draws on first-party data from Expedia, Wotif, and Stayz, along with insights from 24,000 travellers across 18 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive travel trend reports in the industry.

Q: What makes Unpack ’26 a credible source for travel trends?
A: The report combines real-time platform data from millions of users with third-party research conducted by OnePoll, following the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. Its findings are backed by behavioural insights, booking patterns, and cultural signals, making it a trusted resource for media, industry leaders, and travellers alike.

Q: What is the Smart Travel Health Check and how is it used in Unpack ’26?
A: Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check assesses destinations based on the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) six principles for sustainable tourism management. Destinations that meet these criteria are better equipped to manage tourism sustainably, protect local environments, and support communities. Destinations without a ✔️ may not yet meet or have measurable data for all six principles; however, they still offer rich travel experiences. Their inclusion reflects Expedia’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of destinations while encouraging progress toward sustainable tourism.

Q: How are destinations evaluated for the Smart Travel Health Check?
A: The Smart Travel Health Check indicates that a destination has been assessed against six key principles to ensure responsible and resilient tourism. These include having stewardship bodies with legitimacy and funding, a shared vision with local communities, data-driven planning, smart monitoring systems, transparent reinvestment of tourism revenue, and meaningful empowerment of residents. Destinations that meet these criteria are better equipped to manage tourism sustainably, protect local environments, and support communities. To read more about WTTC’s research, follow this link.

Q: What are the key travel trends identified in Unpack ’26?
A: The report spotlights several major trends shaping travel in 2026:

  • Set-Jetting: Screen-inspired travel
  • Slow Down Towns: Slower paced trips
  • Parks with Spark: Holiday parks with standout amenities and accommodation
  • Farm Charm: Nature-based, slow travel
  • Readaways: Literary-themed retreats
  • Fan Voyage: Sport-driven cultural experiences

Q: Where can I access the full Unpack ’26 report and assets?
A: Visit www.expedia.com.au/newsroom for the full Unpack ’26 report, downloadable assets, and brand-specific insights from Expedia, Wotif, and Stayz.

About Expedia Group

Expedia Group, Inc. brands power travel for everyone, everywhere through our global platform. Driven by the core belief that travel is a force for good, Expedia Group™ helps people experience the world in new ways and build lasting connections.

Expedia Group’s three flagship consumer brands in Australia include Expedia®, Wotif.com®, and Stayz®. Its B2B arm, Private Label Solutions, delivers industry-leading technology solutions to fuel partner growth and success, while facilitating memorable experiences for travellers. Expedia Group Advertising helps partners extend their reach and connect with travellers across its travel sites and a broad range of offsite channels through its travel media network.

© 2025 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved. Expedia Group and the Expedia Group logo are trademarks of Expedia, Inc. CST: 2029030-50.

For more information, visit www.expediagroup.com. 

Follow Expedia Group on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

Follow Expedia on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, X and YouTube.

Follow Wotif on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, X and YouTube.

Follow Stayz on Instagram, Facebook and X.

 

 

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Transforming Smartphones into Professional Monitors: Hollyland Launches Vcore for Lightweight Creation

SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hollyland has officially launched Vcore, a groundbreaking wireless video transmission system that revolutionizes the “lightweight” shooting experience. Designed for convenience and portability, Vcore allows users to transform their smartphones into camera monitors while providing seamless wireless video transmission and a host of advanced software features.

Transforming Smartphones into Professional Monitors: Hollyland Launches Vcore for Lightweight Creation
Transforming Smartphones into Professional Monitors: Hollyland Launches Vcore for Lightweight Creation

“Aimed at entry-level users and semi-professional creators, Vcore marks a transformative leap in digital storytelling,” said Dave Liu, CTO of Hollyland’s R&D Management Center. “By seamlessly integrating professional monitoring, wireless transmission, and intelligent software into a smartphone-powered ecosystem, we’re not just simplifying workflows; we’re empowering creators to see everything and create anywhere.”

Featuring an all-in-one design, the Vcore simplifies professional monitoring. By connecting the camera via HDMI and the smartphone via USB-C, users can access the HollyView App for real-time 4K video monitoring at 30 frames per second. This feature ensures creators can oversee their shots with precision and convenience. Compatible with both Android and iOS systems, the Vcore integrates seamlessly with Pyro series receivers, offering robust multi-device monitoring options. The system supports a 1-transmitter-to-4-receiver configuration, transmits signals over the 5 GHz frequency, delivers a range of up to 350 feet (100 meters) and maintains ultra-low latency of approximately 65 ms.

Beyond monitoring, the Vcore optimizes the entire workflow from shooting to editing to transmission. Users can record in stunning 1080p at 60 fps using the H.264 codec, making it perfect for efficient post-production. Vcore automatically detects the camera’s frame rate and timecode, enabling seamless proxy file linking in editing software such as Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. With proxy files recorded in MP4 format and embedded timecode saved to the internal SD card, users benefit from reliable backup options.

Additionally, the linked mobile device can automatically initiate synchronous recording in MP4 format through the HollyView app, facilitating instant social sharing and rapid editing—ideal for quick-paced shoots. For high-resolution image transfer, Vcore connects to the camera via USB to capture uncompressed image files such as RAW or JPEG, which are wirelessly transmitted in real time to mobile devices through the HollyView app and to macOS via the Capture One plugin.

The HollyView app further enhances the user experience by allowing real-time naming and tagging of clips while recording on set. Importantly, mobile and transmitter footage share the same default file name prefix, which is customizable to match source camera files. With Vcore supporting recording up to 1080p at 60 fps, users can easily import footage into mobile editing software for intelligent organization. Review footage with split-screen comparisons, mark favorites instantly, and let the system auto-sort clips into categorized folders, allowing creators to spend less time searching and more time innovating.

In addition to these features, the Vcore also stands out with its unique feature matrix, which includes remote camera control, live streaming capabilities, and real-time chroma keying algorithms for green screen effects. These differentiated functions empower users to elevate their content creation process and explore new creative possibilities.

With the launch of the Vcore, Hollyland brings a new perspective to lightweight creation. The core idea of “Your Phone. Your Monitor.” underscores the brand’s consistent ambition to drive innovation and redefine productivity tools in the mobile age.

For more information about the Vcore, please visit https://www.hollyland.com/product/vcore

UNPACK ’26: EXPEDIA AND BOOKABACH REVEAL HOW TRAVELLERS WILL EXPLORE THE WORLD IN 2026

Expedia’s first-ever Smart Travel Health Check tackles tourism’s biggest challenge: overcrowding.

From sports you’ve never heard of to book club retreats, to farm stays, 2026 trends flip the script on traditional getaways.

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Oct. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Expedia Group released Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel™. The annual global report highlights shifts in traveller behaviour and the destinations set to dominate itineraries in 2026.

From Destinations of the Year and reading retreats, to Banana Ball and farm stays, the five trends in Unpack ’26 offer a look at the future of travel. Each trend is backed by first-party data and insights from 24,000 global travellers.*

Expedia — Destinations of the Year: Expedia’s 2026 Destinations of the Year list — powered by real-time data from millions of daily visitors to the Expedia site and app — highlights where global interest is rising fast, even in destinations that haven’t yet gone viral.

Six of these hotspots also meet the criteria for Expedia’s new Smart Travel Health Check — a first-in-travel framework from Expedia, inspired by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The Smart Travel Health Check recognises destinations that offer meaningful travel experiences and proactively manage tourism in a sustainable way, helping to ease the strain on the world’s most overvisited cities.

Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, added, “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations. With 1 billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn’t just a travel marketplace — we’re a catalyst for positive change. We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”

“Expedia responded to WTTC’s Call to Action on Destination Stewardship with the launch of the Smart Travel Health Check. This innovative initiative reflects the urgent need to embrace responsible growth models that safeguard communities, protect cultural and natural heritage, and ensure the long-term resilience of destinations,” added Christopher Imbsen, Vice President Policy at WTTC. “By applying WTTC’s framework, Expedia is celebrating destinations that work collaboratively to empower residents, strengthen stewardship, and deliver richer, more meaningful travel experiences.”

2026’s Destinations of the Year  Beyond the Crowds*

Destination

% Search Increase

Destination

% Search Increase

Big Sky, Montana, U.S. ✔️

+92 %

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, U.S.

+45 %

Okinawa, Japan ✔️

+71 %

Ucluelet, Canada ✔️

+44 %

Sardinia, Italy

+63 %

Cotswolds, U.K. ✔️

+39 %

Phu Quoc, Vietnam 

+53 %

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

+30 %

Savoie, France ✔️

+51 %

Hobart, Australia ✔️

+25 %

Explore each Destination of the Year here.

Expedia — Fan Voyage: 2026 is a huge year for international sports, but there’s a new wave of fanaticism all about immersive, local experiences. Expedia’s Fan Voyage trend reveals a surge in uniquely regional sporting experiences, with 60% of Kiwis saying they’re likely to attend one while on a trip.

From sumo wrestling in Japan to Muay Thai in Thailand, Kiwi travellers — particularly Gen Z and Millennial Kiwi travellers (73%) — are seeking front-row seats to learn about timeless traditions. Fan Voyage shows it’s not just about the game — it’s about community, culture, and feeling like a local.

2026’s Hottest Fan Voyage Tickets*

Sport

Location

Sport

Location

Sumo Wrestling

Japan

Banana Ball

U.S.

Muay Thai

Thailand

Capoeira

Brazil

Curling

Canada

Lucha Libre

Mexico

Baseball

South Korea

Hurling

Ireland

Australian Rules Football

Australia

Caber Tossing

Scotland, U.K.

Check out how to get seats to Fan Voyage events here.

Bookabach — Readaways: Trips in 2026 are getting “lit” — literally. Bookabach reveals 94% of  Kiwi travellers are seeking getaways focused on reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones. As #BookTok continues to dominate social media, interest in literary-themed travels is surging with Pinterest searches for “book club retreat ideas” up 265%, and reading-related terms in guest reviews nearly tripling.*

Recommended Rentals for Readaways:

See more inspiration on Readaways here.

Bookabach Farm Charm: The slow travel movement is gaining ground, with 90% of Kiwi travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm. Mentions of farm-related experiences in guest reviews have also surged 300% year-over-year,* signaling how travellers are searching for starlit skies over busy city lights in 2026.

Farm Charm is about unplugging and reconnecting with nature. Top activities for Kiwi travellers include:

  • Hiking trails (74%)
  • Animal interactions such as collecting eggs, feeding animals, or birdwatching (63%)
  • Relaxing hobbies such as crafting, knitting or reading (43%)  

Top Farm Charm Finds:

Explore more properties with Farm Charm here.

The 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast: Set-Jetting is back — and bigger than ever. First spotlighted by Expedia in 2022, this trend of travelling to destinations inspired by TV shows and movies is now projected to become a potential $8 billion industry in the U.S. alone.* Interest is accelerating with 47% of Kiwi travellers say their desire to take a set-jetting trip has increased in the past year.

With The White Lotus’s next location in France still to be officially confirmed, the 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast reveals the next wave of cinematic escapes — from the U.K.’s rolling hills of Yorkshire to the epic coastlines of Croatia. Set-Jetting is turning binge-worthy moments into bucket-list adventures.

The 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast

Location

Film/Series Inspiration

Yorkshire, U.K.

Wuthering Heights and Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

Tuscany, Italy

Jay Kelly

Samoa, Polynesia

Moana (Live Action)

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

People We Meet on Vacation

Peloponnese, Greece

The Odyssey

Los Angeles, U.S.

Nobody Wants This

Wellington, New Zealand

Avatar: Fire & Ash

Palawan, Philippines

The Last Resort

Read more about Set-Jetting here.

To learn more about the travel trends in Unpack ’26, visit www.expedia.co.nz/unpack26. Visit www.expedia.co.nz/newsroom for Unpack ’26 assets and more news from Expedia and Bookabach.

Notes to Editor:

Third-Party Methodology
Third-party research was conducted by market research partner OnePoll in accordance with the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. The Study was conducted online among 24,000 adult respondents across 18 countries, including 1,000 adult respondents in New Zealand, who are planning domestic or international travel in the next three years. Gen Z respondents are defined as those aged 18 to 24, while the combined Gen Z and Millennial group includes all respondents aged 18 to 44. 

Expedia 2026 Destinations of the Year: Beyond the Crowds
Destinations of the Year list based on increases in flight + accommodation searches on Expedia for travel on January 1-December 31, 2024 vs. January 1-December 31, 2025.

✔️ denotes destinations that meet the Smart Travel Health Check framework, aligned with World Travel + Tourism Council (WTTC) principles. The Smart Travel Health Check helps travellers identify destinations that offer rich cultural and natural experiences without the overcrowding seen in many of the world’s most popular cities.

Expedia Fan Voyage
Top unique sporting activities based on global consumer survey data.

Bookabach Readaways
Pinterest data based on Pinterest 2025 Summer Trend Report. 

Top Readaways on Bookabach based on global guest reviews with reading-related terms such as “reading retreat” or “library.”

Bookabach Farm Charm
Bookabach guest review increase based on global data from May 2023 to Apr 2024 vs. May 2024-Apr 2025.  

Top Farm Charm finds on Bookabach based on global guest reviews with farm-related terms such as “farm” or “homestead.”

2026 Set-Jetting Forecast
Set-Jetting projection based on consumer survey data showing 13% of US travellers have booked a trip after seeing a location featuring on-screen. Of these, 25% noted they spent between $1,000 and $2,000 on the trip. If applied to the U.S. adult population (~260m), the potential projected impact on the travel industry is $8.45bn.

About Unpack ’26

Q: What is Unpack ’26?
A: Unpack ’26 is the annual global travel insights report from Expedia Group, building on years of trend forecasting and traveller behavior analysis. It draws on first-party data from Expedia and Bookabach, along with insights from 24,000 travellers across 18 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive travel trend reports in the industry.

Q: What makes Unpack ’26 a credible source for travel trends?
A: The report combines real-time platform data from millions of users with third-party research conducted by OnePoll, following the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. Its findings are backed by behavioural insights, booking patterns, and cultural signals, making it a trusted resource for media, industry leaders, and travellers alike.

Q: What is the Smart Travel Health Check and how is it used in Unpack ’26?
A: Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check assesses destinations based on the World Travel and Tourism Council’s (WTTC) six principles for sustainable tourism management. Destinations that meet these criteria are better equipped to manage tourism sustainably, protect local environments, and support communities. Destinations without a ✔️ may not yet meet or have measurable data for all six principles; however, they still offer rich travel experiences. Their inclusion reflects Expedia’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of destinations while encouraging progress toward sustainable tourism.

Q: How are destinations evaluated for the Smart Travel Health Check?

A: The Smart Travel Health Check indicates that a destination has been assessed against six key principles to ensure responsible and resilient tourism. These include having stewardship bodies with legitimacy and funding, a shared vision with local communities, data-driven planning, smart monitoring systems, transparent reinvestment of tourism revenue, and meaningful empowerment of residents. Destinations that meet these criteria are better equipped to manage tourism sustainably, protect local environments, and support communities. To read more about WTTC’s research, follow this link.

Q: What are the key travel trends identified in Unpack ’26?
A: The report spotlights several major trends shaping travel in 2026:

  • Set-Jetting: Screen-inspired travel
  • Farm Charm: Nature-based, slow travel
  • Readaways: Literary-themed retreats
  • Fan Voyage: Sport-driven cultural experiences

Q: Where can I access the full Unpack ’26 report and assets?
A: Visit www.expedia.co.nz/newsroom for the full Unpack ’26 report, downloadable assets, and brand-specific insights from Expedia and Bookabach.

About Expedia Group

Expedia Group, Inc. brands power travel for everyone, everywhere through our global platform. Driven by the core belief that travel is a force for good, Expedia Group™ helps people experience the world in new ways and build lasting connections.

Expedia Group’s two flagship consumer brands in New Zealand are Expedia® and Bookabach®. Its B2B arm, Private Label Solutions, delivers industry-leading technology solutions to fuel partner growth and success, while facilitating memorable experiences for travellers. Expedia Group Advertising helps partners extend their reach and connect with travellers across its travel sites and a broad range of offsite channels through its travel media network.

© 2025 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved. Expedia Group and the Expedia Group logo are trademarks of Expedia, Inc. CST: 2029030-50.

For more information, visit www.expediagroup.com. 

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