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World’s Best Universities Revealed

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US and European leadership challenged amid competition from Asia and Middle East 

#QSWUR 

LONDON, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global higher education experts QS Quacquarelli Symonds have released the QS World University Rankings 2027.

MIT is crowned first for 15th consecutive year. Imperial College London stays second, tied with Stanford University, up from third. University of Oxford and Harvard University come fourth and fifth.

This edition features 1500+ universities from 106 higher education systems. The US has 184 entries, followed by the UK (93) and Mainland China (85).

Top-20 

2027

2026

1

1

MIT 

US 

2

3

Stanford University 

US 

2

2

Imperial College London 

UK 

4

4

University of Oxford 

UK 

5

5

Harvard University 

US 

6

6

University of Cambridge 

UK 

7

10

California Institute of Technology

US 

8

9

UCL 

UK 

8

7

ETH Zurich 

Switzerland 

10

8

National University of Singapore 

Singapore 

 

QS Senior Vice President Ben Sowter said: “The QS World University Rankings serve as a benchmark for higher education performance, informing decision-making worldwide.

“The US still leads global higher education, though the map is shifting as institutions across Asia and the Middle East translate strong investment into measurable gains.

“The picture in Europe is mixed, with emerging systems strengthening their global standing through long-term funding and innovation policies, while others show signs of stagnation.” 

Highlights

  • US: Caltech achieves best ranking since 2023. Yale(16th) and Johns Hopkins(20th) re-enter top-20. Harvard leads globally in four indicators
  • UK: Leader in international research. Five universities achieve record ranks despite 43% dropping
  • Mainland China’s rise continues – 72% of universities climb, with 13 new entrants. Peking University(13th) leads
  • Hong Kong SAR: Asia’s most improved – 78% rise. CUHK(18th) joins HKU(11th) among the top-20.
  • Australia: 58% of universities rise. UNSW(19th) takes national top-spot for the first time.
  • Europe: Italy among Europe’s most improved – 56% climb, led by Politecnico di Milano(87th). Germany and Spain add 11 and 10 entries. Technical University of Munich(25th) and Université PSL(34th) top the EU.
  • Gulf universities break records. Saudi Arabia’s KFUPM(63rd) and King Saud University(107th) reach historic highs alongside Qatar University(109th) and UAE’s Khalifa University(147th)
  • Latin America’s downward trend continues. Universidad de Buenos Aires(84th) remains region’s only top-100 university
  • Canada under pressure as 66% of universities drop. McGill(30th) retains national top spot
  • Africa: University of Cape Town(184th) remains top-ranked university despite dropping year-on-year
  • India: IIT Delhi(118th) reaches country’s joint highest-ever rank. Eighteen universities hit record highs

Read the full global release here:Global420_WUR2027_EN_D1.0_E0.1_APPROVED_WB

PROCOMER: Costa Rica strengthens its focus on Asia with value-added food products in South Korea

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  • Four Costa Rican companies promoted differentiated products for the HORECA sector at Seoul Food & Hotel 2026.
  • South Korea is emerging as one of Asia’s leading markets for premium, healthy, and high-quality food products.

SEOUL, South Korea, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Costa Rica continues to strengthen its presence in Asia and expand opportunities for its export sector in high-value markets. From June 9 to 12, four Costa Rican companies participated in Seoul Food & Hotel 2026, one of Asia’s leading trade platforms for the food industry, bringing together buyers, distributors, supermarket chains, hotels, restaurants, and foodservice companies from around the world.


The Costa Rican delegation included Instantia, Inalve, Natural Aloe, and Frutera La Paz, which showcased a differentiated portfolio of dehydrated pineapple and banana, frozen tropical fruits, frozen cassava-based products, and aloe extract, mainly targeting the HORECA segment: hotels, restaurants, and catering services.

In addition to their participation in the trade show, the companies held business meetings and conducted strategic visits to leading retail chains and points of sale, including Homeplus, Shinsegae, and Lotte Premium Food Market. These activities allowed them to gain first-hand insight into consumer trends, identify business opportunities, and strengthen their positioning in the South Korean market.

“Market diversification is one of our top priorities to strengthen the resilience and growth of Costa Rican exports. Asia represents an increasingly relevant opportunity for our companies, and South Korea stands out for its sophisticated consumers, strong purchasing power, and growing interest in differentiated food products. Participating in platforms such as Seoul Food & Hotel allowed us to bring Costa Rica’s exportable offer closer to new buyers, generate business opportunities, and continue expanding the country’s presence in strategic markets around the world,” said Laura López, CEO of the Trade & Investment Promotion Agency of Costa Rica (PROCOMER).

South Korea has become one of Asia’s most dynamic markets for premium, healthy, and convenient food products, driven by consumers who are increasingly interested in quality, traceability, innovation, and product origin. This context creates new opportunities for Costa Rica’s exportable offer, which is internationally recognized for its high standards of quality and sustainability.

Costa Rica’s participation in Seoul Food & Hotel was part of a broader trade promotion agenda being carried out in South Korea this year, including initiatives to strengthen the positioning of Costa Rican coffee in the market, one of Asia’s most dynamic destinations for high-quality food and beverage products.

Connecting South and Southeast Asia, Linking Trade Worldwide: The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series of Activities and the 4th Junfa-New Luosiwan International Procurement Festival Open in Kunming

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KUNMING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 Jun 2026 – The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series of Activities and the 4th Junfa-New Luosiwan International Procurement Festival officially opened today in Kunming, Yunnan Province. Aligned with the Expo’s theme, “Solidarity and Collaboration for Shared Development,” this year’s Procurement Festival is guided by the vision of “Connecting South and Southeast Asia, Linking Trade Worldwide.”

Connecting Trade Worldwide: The 10th China–South Asia Expo Series Events and Junfa New Luosiwan 4th International Procurement Festival Grandly Open in Kunming

By building platforms for open cooperation, trade exchange, industrial collaboration, cultural connectivity, and consumption promotion, the event aims to further strengthen Yunnan’s role as a gateway linking China with South and Southeast Asia while creating new opportunities for regional economic growth and international cooperation.

The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from government agencies, business associations, enterprises, buyers, and media organizations. Delegations from South and Southeast Asian countries, representatives of the Myanmar Trade Center, members of chambers of commerce, merchants, and influencer alliances gathered alongside nearly 40 national, provincial, and municipal media outlets.

Guo Huaiguang, Party Secretary of the Kunming Municipal Bureau of Commerce, stated that this year’s Procurement Festival builds upon the achievements of previous editions while delivering three key upgrades: stronger open-platform capabilities, deeper integration of emerging trade models, and closer coordination between economic and cultural exchange. He noted that New Luosiwan has successfully leveraged the combined advantages of market procurement trade, the China–Laos Railway, and multimodal transportation networks, significantly reducing logistics costs and customs clearance times while becoming an important export platform for Kunming’s small commodities and specialty agricultural products.

Shi Fei, Vice Mayor of the Guandu District People’s Government, emphasized that New Luosiwan International Trade City has developed into one of Southwest China’s leading commercial and trade complexes. He highlighted its important role in stimulating consumption, expanding foreign trade, and supporting employment, noting that this year’s Procurement Festival creates value through trade promotion, domestic demand stimulation, and enhanced market participation.

At the opening ceremony, You Jian, Vice President of Junfa Group, unveiled the development blueprint for Junfa-New Luosiwan during China’s 15th Five-Year Plan period. Guided by the vision of “Everything You Imagine Can Be Found at New Luosiwan,” the strategy aims to build a trillion-yuan integrated trade platform serving South and Southeast Asia through the combination of physical commerce, digital innovation, wholesale-retail integration, and online-offline collaboration.

Advancing Regional Trade Cooperation Through Strategic Connectivity

The Procurement Festival serves not only as a commercial event but also as a practical demonstration of Yunnan’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative and the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

As an important supporting event of the China–South Asia Expo, the festival leverages the strengths of Junfa-New Luosiwan International Trade City to promote a development model in which logistics drives trade, trade drives industry, and industry drives regional economic growth. The initiative seeks to further establish Yunnan as a key commercial hub connecting China with South and Southeast Asia.

Integrating Trade and Logistics to Strengthen Cross-Border Connectivity

One of the major highlights of this year’s festival is the strategic partnership between Junfa-New Luosiwan and SF International. Together, the two parties have launched an integrated digital trade and logistics platform serving South Asia, Southeast Asia, and extending into Central Asia.

Leveraging the China–Laos Railway, often referred to as a “golden corridor” for regional trade, the platform combines market procurement trade, railway transportation, and multimodal logistics solutions. It also pioneers the regularized mixed transportation of “1039 market procurement goods” and the Lancang-Mekong Express service, helping reduce transportation costs and improve customs clearance efficiency.

Drawing on New Luosiwan’s extensive product ecosystem and incorporating logistics services, cross-border payment solutions, and AI-powered technologies, the platform provides merchants with a comprehensive pathway covering customs clearance, logistics, and settlement services for international expansion.

Accelerating Digital Transformation and Integrated Commerce

Digital transformation was another major focus of this year’s event. LuoLe Technology officially unveiled its Future Development Strategy, introducing five core business segments centered on a B2B cross-border digital trade platform and a consumer-focused digital commerce ecosystem.

Built around the OneID membership system, the platform connects online and offline experiences through the LuoleGO experiential marketplace, the Luole Private Domain Mall, and LuosuDa instant retail services. Together, these initiatives create an integrated digital commerce ecosystem that combines offline engagement, online transactions, fulfillment services, and data-driven operations.

The festival also launched a dual-channel consumption model integrating digital procurement and large-scale retail experiences. Through online subsidy programs and participation from more than 10,000 merchants, traditional commerce is being revitalized through digital innovation and enhanced consumer engagement.

Supporting Global Expansion of Yunnan Brands

During the opening ceremony, organizers officially launched the Merchant Global Expansion Program and Brand Internationalization Initiative.

The program establishes a four-pillar service system consisting of digital commerce platforms, overseas warehouses, international showrooms, and localized overseas operations. The initiative aims to help merchants transition from traditional export-oriented supply models toward global brand development.

More than 1,100 core merchants from the New Luosiwan Chamber of Commerce are participating in the program, transforming individual export efforts into coordinated international expansion strategies. Strategic partnerships have also been established with Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar through reciprocal product exhibition and promotion zones.

Supported by the international visibility of the China–South Asia Expo and the presence of overseas buyers, the Procurement Festival provides direct business matchmaking opportunities between regional merchants and international purchasers while offering comprehensive foreign trade services to facilitate transactions and export growth.

Creating New Consumer Experiences Through Wholesale-Retail Integration

The festival also explores innovative consumption scenarios by integrating wholesale and retail operations into one of China’s leading “experience plus retail” marketplaces.

A key focus is the development of Yunnan’s original fashion industry through designer showcases, runway presentations, and pop-up stores featuring local brands including Jinlinrong, VVFUSHI, T-Stage Jues, Jianpai, Lexiannu, NV Hanzi, and HK.

At the same time, the event incorporates youth-oriented lifestyle elements such as live music, street dance, DJs, fashion performances, and influencer engagement activities. By combining daytime trend experiences with evening entertainment, the festival creates a vibrant atmosphere that injects new energy into traditional commerce.

Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Trade

Beyond business and commerce, the Procurement Festival also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity.The event showcases imported products from South and Southeast Asia alongside Yunnan specialties, including premium coffee, cultural and creative products, jewelry, jade crafts, tie-dye textiles, and other intangible cultural heritage items. By bringing together diverse products and traditions, the festival promotes mutual understanding and cultural appreciation across the region.

Through collaboration with international influencers, content creators, and overseas students, the event further expands its global reach and strengthens cultural ties between China and countries across South and Southeast Asia.

The Procurement Festival will continue through June 16.As Junfa-New Luosiwan advances its development strategy for the 15th Five-Year Plan period and accelerates its digital commerce transformation, it is positioning itself as a more open, innovative, and globally connected trade hub. From Kunming to South and Southeast Asia and beyond, the platform aims to strengthen regional economic connectivity and contribute to a new chapter of international trade cooperation.

Website: https://www.jfxlsw.com

ITPS Canada to Launch International Tactical Training Centre Operations in North Bay on July 6

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New dedicated facility at Jack Garland Airport positions North Bay as a future centre of excellence for NATO and allied fighter pilot training

North Bay, Ontario – Newsfile Corp. – June 17, 2026 – The International Test Pilots School Canada (ITPS Canada) today announced that its International Tactical Training Centre (ITTC) will officially begin operations in North Bay on Monday, July 6, 2026, marking a major milestone in the company’s investment in Northern Ontario and Canada’s role in allied defence training.

The launch follows ITPS Canada’s acquisition of a hangar facility at the Jack Garland Airport and significant capital renovations to establish a dedicated state of the art aviation training, maintenance, and operations centre in North Bay.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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The new North Bay operation will support approximately 60 staff and welcome students, instructors, visiting military personnel, customers, and industry partners to the community as ITTC begins delivering advanced tactical aviation training from its new Canadian home.

“Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for ITPS Canada,” said Dave Lohse, the organization’s Chief Executive Officer. “The relocation and expansion of ITTC reflects our commitment to supporting NATO and allied nations with world-class tactical flight training while strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader in military aviation training. With its world-class airport facilities, abundant airspace and proud military heritage, North Bay provides the ideal environment to build a next-generation training centre capable of preparing future fighter pilots for increasingly complex operational environments.”

ITTC provides fighter lead-in training and advanced tactical training programs delivered by experienced allied military veteran instructor pilots in a dedicated operational environment. The North Bay campus brings together world-class expertise, access to expansive Canadian airspace, advanced training systems, and a uniquely Canadian four-season operating environment.

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North Bay was selected for its unique combination of strategic airspace, aviation infrastructure, military heritage, and community support. The region offers access to uncongested training airspace, diverse weather conditions, and a location that enables pilots to train together in an operationally realistic environment alongside NATO, Five Eyes and allied air arms, enhancing interoperability and operational effectiveness.

“The launch of ITTC in North Bay gives us the ability to deliver the kind of tactical training environment our customers are looking for, with room to expand to meet future training needs,” said Brendan Pierce, Vice President, Tactical Training, ITTC. “Modern air forces need training that is relevant to their operational requirements, adaptable to their specific needs and delivered to the standards they expect. North Bay provides access to exceptional airspace, realistic weather conditions and the flexibility to build training programs that prepare pilots for the environments they will encounter throughout their careers. That’s a significant advantage only ITTC can offer our customers.”

ITTC’s move to North Bay builds on ITPS Canada’s recent announcement that it has signed an agreement with Leonardo for six M-346 T Block 20 advanced jet trainers, with options for an additional six aircraft. Expected to enter service beginning in 2029, the aircraft will be based at ITTC in North Bay and will support the expansion of advanced tactical fighter pilot training for NATO and allied air forces.

To fully realize this opportunity, ITPS Canada is planning its next phase of growth at the Jack Garland Airport, including a purpose-built aviation training campus of approximately 64,000 square feet on adjacent airport lands. The proposed expansion represents an estimated capital investment of approximately $35 million and would allow ITTC to significantly increase training capacity in response to growing demand from NATO and allied air forces. At full scale, the expanded campus is expected to support 120 to 200 highly skilled aerospace and defence jobs in North Bay contributing to Canada’s broader defence industrial objectives.

For more than 25 years, ITPS Canada has delivered aviation training excellence to pilots and military personnel from more than 29 air arms worldwide. While ITPS Canada remains internationally recognized as a leader in flight test training in London, Ontario, the strategic move to relocate ITTC to North Bay allows the division to scale its existing tactical training capacity to meet growing demand from allied nations, enhancing Canadian sovereign capability.

As global demand for tactical aviation training continues to grow, ITTC is positioned to provide NATO and allied air forces with a flexible, responsive and operationally focused training solution delivered in the skies over Canada.

About ITPS Canada

ITPS Canada is a global leader in flight test and military aviation training, having delivered highly specialized flight test and tactical training for 25 years in Canada. Through its International Test Pilots School, International Tactical Training Centre and engineering divisions, ITPS Canada provides advanced aviation training, aircraft maintenance and engineering services to military and civilian customers around the world.

About ITTC

The International Tactical Training Centre provides advanced military aviation training for NATO and allied air forces. Operating from North Bay, Ontario, ITTC delivers tactical fighter pilot training programs designed to develop the skills, knowledge, and operational mindset required for success in modern military aviation environments.

Media Contact:
Marcus Tignanelli
Operations Manager
Marcus.Tignanelli@itpscanada.com
+1 (705) 358-0695

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

First Phosphate Announces Investment and Offtake Agreements under Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance at G7 Summit

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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec – Newsfile Corp. – June 17, 2026 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (OTCQX ADR: FPHOY) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce that it has formalized international investment and offtake agreements under the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance (the “Alliance”) at the 52nd G7 Summit in Évian, France.

Letters of interest:

Within the framework of the Alliance, First Phosphate is also pleased to announce that it has received letters of interest (“LOIs”) from export credit agencies, financial institutions and industrial partners:

  1. LOI for up to CDN $275M guarantee from the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (“EIFO”) for the development of the First Phosphate Bégin-Lamarche mine. (signed March 30, 2026)
  2. LOIs from the Italian Export Credit Agency (“SACE”), from Italy’s National Promotional Institution, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (“CDP”), and from the international growth partner for Italian companies (“SIMEST”), alongside the support of the Italian engineering group MAIRE (“MAIRE”), in relation to First Phosphate’s phosphoric acid (“PA”) plant at Port Saguenay to deploy Ballestra S.p.A (Italy) (“Ballestra”) technology. (LOIs signed between May 26, 2026 – June 4, 2026)

Offtake Agreements:

  1. Definitive offtake agreement with an international partner for a minimum of 200,000 tonnes per annum of phosphate concentrate from the Bégin-Lamarche mine. (signed January 5, 2026).
  2. Definitive offtake agreement with an international partner for a minimum of 60,000 tonnes per annum of phosphoric acid to be produced by the phosphoric acid plant at Port Saguenay. (signed December 16, 2024)

“Canada has what the world wants, and we are delivering. By working with trusted allies through the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance, investments are being made, projects are coming online faster, and we are strengthening supply chains in Canada and beyond,” said the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. “By advancing projects like the Bégin-Lamarche mine, we’re securing the materials essential to the clean energy transition, creating good Canadian Jobs, and positioning Canada as a leader in an increasingly competitive global economy.”

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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“These offtake and investment agreements announced under the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance at the 2026 G7 Summit demonstrate the strategic importance being assigned to establishing a secure, traceable and robust international supply chain for critical battery-grade phosphate material,” stated John Passalacqua, CEO of First Phosphate. “We are proud to lead the G7 in the development of this clean, rare igneous phosphate material from Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, Quebec into a downstream lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) battery supply chain for the G7 Alliance.”

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8917/301865_a30ad39e14f0489d_002full.jpg

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information relating to First Phosphate contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Steeve Lavoie, P.Geo., Chief Geologist of First Phosphate, who is Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”).

About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate (CSE: PHOS) (OTCQX: FRSPF) (OTCQX ADR: FPHOY) (FSE: KD0) is a mineral exploration and development and clean technology company dedicated to building and reshoring a vertically integrated mine-to-market supply chain for the production of LFP batteries in North America. Target markets include energy storage, data centers, robotics, mobility, and national security. First Phosphate’s flagship Bégin-Lamarche property, located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec, Canada, represents a rare North American igneous phosphate resource producing high-purity phosphate characterized by very low levels of impurities.

About the Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance

The Critical Minerals Resilience and Production Alliance was launched by Prime Minister Carney in June 2025 at the 51st G7 Leaders’ Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. It brings trusted countries together to diversify critical minerals supply, promote responsible development, and reduce market concentration. The Alliance helps critical minerals projects move from planning to production faster by connecting governments, investors, and companies unlocking financing; securing investment; and supporting offtake agreements with long-term buyers, reducing risk so that mining and processing projects can get built and deliver secure, reliable supply.

About Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO)

EIFO is the Danish export credit agency backed by the Danish state, and as such, the EIFO guarantee can be considered AAA rated. The guarantee can be provided to one or more banks providing the funding and EIFO participation can be expected to be pro rata and pari passu with other senior lenders. EIFO has been involved in the financing of a significant number of transactions and projects around the world and has extensive experience within the field of export and project finance.

About Italian Export Credit Agency (SACE)

SACE is Italy’s Export Credit Agency, wholly owned by the Ministry of Economy and Finance. It specializes in supporting the growth of Italian companies through a wide range of instruments and solutions to foster exports and competitiveness, including risk management and protection, financial guarantees, factoring, advisory services, and business matching. With a network of export advisors across 23 offices in Italy and in high-potential markets for Made in Italy, SACE manages a portfolio of insured operations and guaranteed investments worth around €290 billion across 200 markets worldwide.

About Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP)

Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is the National Promotional Institute which has been supporting the Italian economy since 1850. The main goal of CDP is to accelerate the industrial and infrastructural development of Italy to boost its economic and social growth. CDP focuses its activities on sustainable development at local level, supporting the innovation and growth of Italian enterprises, also in the international arena. It partners local authorities, in a financing and advisory capacity, to create infrastructures and improve services of public value. CDP also participates actively in international cooperation initiatives to realize projects in developing countries and emerging markets. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is entirely financed by private capital, through the issuing of Postal Savings Bonds and Postal Savings Passbooks, and through issues on national and international financial markets.

About Società Italiana per le Imprese all’Estero (SIMEST)

SIMEST is the Cassa Depositi e Prestiti Group company that has been supporting Italian businesses since 1991 as they grow through internationalisation. SIMEST supports businesses throughout their international expansion process, from the initial evaluation to enter a new market, to expansion through direct investments. It operates through loans for international expansion, export credit assistance and equity investments in companies.

About MAIRE Group

MAIRE S.p.A. (EURONEXT MILAN: MAIRE IM) is a leading engineering group providing technology solutions and project execution in the downstream segment of energy services, as well as in the chemicals and fertilizers industries. The Group operates through two business units: Integrated E&C Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions, the latter active in sustainable fertilizers, low carbon energy vectors, and innovative materials and circular solutions. With operations in around 50 countries, MAIRE employs over 10,800 people. For further information: www.groupmaire.com

About Ballestra S.p.A

Ballestra S.p.A. is an Italian engineering company active in the licensing, design and engineering of processing plants, as well as in the supply of proprietary technologies and equipment for the chemical industry, including detergents, surfactants, phosphate- and potassium-based fertilizers, fluorine derivatives and gas-liquid reactions. Leveraging its know-how in sulfuric and phosphoric acid, it supports the processing of critical raw materials, with applications in lithium-ion batteries and in the metals and mining industries. Recently acquired by NEXTCHEM (subject to closing), part of MAIRE Group, it operates in over 120 countries and employs approximately 450 people.

For additional information
Armand MacKenzie
President
Tel : +1 (514) 618-5289

Investor Relations: https://firstphosphate.com/investors
General Inquiries: https://firstphosphate.com/contact
Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com
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, among other things: the advancement of its exploration, development and downstream mine-to-market operations; statements about the Company’s business prospects, future trends, plans, and strategies; the entering into of definitive offtake and financing agreements, and any related transactions, and the structure, terms and conditions of the definitive agreements any related transactions; the design, build, operation and maintenance of the phosphate concentrate and a phosphoric acid manufacturing plant; and the receipt of regulatory approvals.

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 market prices, development and exploration successes, and 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 that engineering and construction timetables and capital costs for the Company’s, exploration, development and expansion projects are correctly estimated and not affected by unforeseen circumstances; the ability to obtain financing for its proposed operations on acceptable terms; no material deterioration in general business and economic conditions; no material delays in obtaining permits and other approvals; no significant disruptions affecting the activities of the Company or its ability to access required project equipment and services, and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; inflation and prices for Company project inputs being approximately consistent with anticipated levels; the ability to complete the exploration and development programs consistent with the Company’s expectations; commodity price expectations including assumptions for P2O5; the Company’s relationship with local municipalities and First Nations 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; and 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.

About First Phosphate Corp.

Electrolux Group announces the preliminary outcome of the oversubscribed rights issue

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STOCKHOLM, June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, JAPAN, AUSTRALIA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH ACTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL

The subscription period in AB Electrolux (“Electrolux Group” or the “Group”) fully underwritten rights issue with preferential rights for existing shareholders (the “Rights Issue”), ended on June 16, 2026. The preliminary outcome shows that the Rights Issue has been oversubscribed. As a result of the Rights Issue, Electrolux Group will receive gross proceeds of approximately SEK 9,062 million, before deduction of transaction costs.

The preliminary outcome indicates that 530,010,351 shares, corresponding to approximately 98.0 percent of the offered shares, have been subscribed for by the exercise of subscription rights. Additionally, notification of subscription without subscription rights of 214,586,937 shares, corresponding to approximately 39.7 percent of the offered shares, have been received. In aggregate, the preliminary outcome of the Rights Issue indicates that the subscription by exercise of subscription rights and the applications for subscription without subscription rights correspond to approximately 137.6 percent of the offered shares. The Rights Issue is thus fully subscribed, and no underwriting commitments will be utilised.

As a result of the Rights Issue, Electrolux Group will receive gross proceeds of approximately SEK 9,062 million, before deduction of transaction costs. Through the Rights Issue, AB Electrolux share capital will increase by SEK 2,951,906,720, from the current SEK 1,544,601,540 to SEK 4,496,508,260 through an issuance of 540,992,636 new shares, of which 16,383,608 new Class A shares and 524,609,028 new Class B shares. After the Rights Issue, the number of shares in AB Electrolux will amount to 824,070,029 shares, of which 23,777,591 Class A shares and 800,292,438 Class B shares[1].

Those who have subscribed for shares without subscription rights will be allotted shares according to the principles outlined in the prospectus. As confirmation of allocation of shares subscribed for without subscription rights, a transaction note will be sent on or about 23 June, 2026. Subscribed and allotted shares must be paid for in cash in accordance with the instructions in the transaction note. Nominee-registered shareholders will receive notice of allotment in accordance with the procedures of the nominee. Only those who have been allotted shares will be notified.

The final outcome of the Rights Issue is expected to be announced on 22 June, 2026. The last day of trading with Paid Subscribed Shares (Sw. betalda tecknade aktier or “BTA”) is June 29, 2026. New shares subscribed for by the exercise of subscription rights are expected to be registered with the Swedish Companies Registration Office (Sw. Bolagsverket) on 23 June, 2026 and are expected to commence trading on Nasdaq Stockholm on 1 July, 2026. Ordinary shares subscribed for without subscription rights are expected to begin trading on Nasdaq Stockholm on 1 July, 2026.

Advisors 

Morgan Stanley and SEB are acting as Joint Global Coordinators, and Deutsche Bank is acting as Co-Bookrunner. Mannheimer Swartling Advokatbyrå AB and Davis Polk & Wardwell London LLP are acting as legal advisors to Electrolux as to Swedish law and U.S. law, respectively. White & Case Advokat AB and White & Case LLP are acting as legal advisors to the Underwriters as to Swedish law and U.S. law, respectively. 

Important notice 

This press release and the information herein is not for publication, release or distribution, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan or South Africa or any other state or jurisdiction in which publication, release or distribution would be unlawful or where such action would require additional prospectuses, filings or other measures in addition to those required under Swedish law. 

The press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or issue, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or acquire, or subscribe for, any of the securities mentioned herein (collectively, the “Securities”) or any other financial instruments in AB Electrolux. Any offer in respect of any securities in connection with the Rights Issue will only be made through the prospectus that AB Electrolux published on May 28, 2026 on www.electroluxgroup.com. Any offer will not be made to, and application forms will not be approved from, subscribers (including shareholders), or persons acting on behalf of subscribers, in any jurisdiction where applications for such subscription would contravene applicable laws or regulations, or would require additional prospectuses, filings, or other measures in addition to those required under Swedish law. Measures in violation of the restrictions may constitute a breach of relevant securities laws. 

None of the Securities have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or the securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction in the United States, and may not be offered, pledged, sold, delivered or otherwise transferred, directly or indirectly, except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and in compliance with applicable other securities laws. There will not be any public offering of any of the Securities in the United States. 

In the United Kingdom, this press release is directed only at, and communicated only to, persons who are “qualified investors” (as defined in paragraph 15 of Schedule 1 to the Public Offers and Admissions to Trading Regulations 2024) who: (i) have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the “Order”), (ii) are high net worth entities falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order, or (iii) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “Relevant Persons”). Any person in the United Kingdom that is not a Relevant Person should not act or rely on the information included in this press release or use it as basis for taking any action. In the United Kingdom, any investment or investment activity that this press release relates is available only to, and will be engaged in only with, Relevant Persons. 

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect AB Electrolux current view of future events as well as financial and operational development. Words such as “intend”, “assess”, “expect”, “may”, “plan”, “estimate” and other expressions involving indications or predictions regarding future development or trends, not based on historical facts, identify forward-looking statements and reflect AB Electrolux beliefs and expectations and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions which could cause actual events and performance to differ materially from any expected future events or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement. The information contained in this press release is subject to change without notice and, except as required by applicable law, AB Electrolux does not assume any responsibility or obligation to update publicly or review any of the forward-looking statements contained in it and nor does it intend to. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. As a result of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual future events or otherwise.

[1] Also encompasses conversion of 797,821 class A shares into class B shares carried out during June 2026 upon request by shareholder in accordance with the conversion clause in AB Electrolux Articles of Association.

CONTACT:

For more information:

Ann-Sofi Jönsson, Head of Investor Relations & Sustainability Reporting, +46 73 025 1005

Maria Åkerhielm, Investor Relations Manager, +46 70 796 3856

Henry Sjölin, Investor Relations Manager, +46 76 863 51 85

Electrolux Group Press Hotline, +46 8 657 65 07

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/electrolux-group/r/electrolux-group-announces-the-preliminary-outcome-of-the-oversubscribed-rights-issue,c4365216

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1853/4365216/4158451.pdf

Press release Preliminary outcome of the oversubscribed rights issue (ENG) 2026-06-17

FranklinWH Home Battery Systems Meet Federal Requirements for Energy Storage Tax Credits

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Independent consultations with four leading law firms establish FranklinWH products qualify for federal clean energy tax credits

SAN JOSE, Calif., June 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — FranklinWH announced that independent legal consultations support the eligibility of its aPower 2 and aPower S residential battery systems for federal clean energy tax credits under Foreign Entity of Concern, or FEOC, rules established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This follows consultations with four law firms ranked by Chambers and Legal 500 for expertise in tax, corporate governance and regulatory compliance. The legal consultations support FranklinWH’s ongoing commitment to tax credit eligibility for installers, developers and financing partners deploying its systems across the United States.

FranklinWH engaged Cleary Gottlieb Steen and Hamilton, Norton Rose Fulbright, Sidley Austin and Hogan Lovells for legal consultations on different aspects of OBBBA compliance, covering criteria including FranklinWH’s corporate structure, supply agreements, intellectual property, effective controls, among others, to help confirm that FranklinWH’s U.S. manufacturing and sales entities fall outside the prohibited foreign entity definition established by the OBBBA.

Section 48E investment tax credits are claimed at the project level, and eligibility depends in part on whether deployed systems meet FEOC requirements. As those requirements tighten on an annual schedule through the end of the decade, the compliance status of installed products is an important factor in project economics.

FranklinWH has been aligning its corporate governance and operations with federal compliance requirements as the FEOC framework has developed.

“FranklinWH is built for the long term, and so is our commitment to the U.S. market. This announcement reflects the kind of company we set out to build from day one, and we are proud to keep showing up for our partners and the homeowners we serve,” said Gary Lam, CEO and co-founder of FranklinWH.

The FEOC provisions restrict federal incentive eligibility for products and companies with certain foreign ownership or supply-chain ties. FranklinWH said its products meet applicable thresholds for 2026 and 2027.

“Trust with our partners matters to us, and one way we build that trust is by being transparent,” said Vincent Ambrose, Chief Commercial Officer of FranklinWH. “Financing partners and their legal teams are welcome to review our compliance information, and we will continue to keep it current as the rules around this continue to take shape.”

FranklinWH is now moving forward with market adoption of its aPower 2 and aPower S systems under its FEOC compliance framework, available through authorized installation partners. The systems scale from 15 to 225 kilowatt-hours and are deployed in homes across the United States, providing whole-home backup power and energy resilience while operating in more than 25 utility-managed virtual power plant (VPP) programs.

Eligible product configurations and additional information about FranklinWH’s FEOC compliance framework are available at franklinwh.com.

About FranklinWH

FranklinWH Energy Storage is the manufacturer of the FranklinWH System, a next-generation home energy management and storage solution. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, FranklinWH’s team brings decades of experience across energy system design, manufacturing, sales and installation. The company is AVL-listed with multiple financial institutions and continues to empower homeowners to achieve true energy freedom. Learn more at franklinwh.com.

Media Contact: media@franklinwh.com

Bybit Private Wealth Management Posts Up to Over 50% in 30-Day APR Across Multiple Strategies

By
Advertorial Desk
-

DUBAI, UAE, June 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, saw its Private Wealth Management division (PWM) demonstrate resilience across market cycles. Latest 30-day returns showcase consistent gains amid volatile market conditions.

Over the past 30 days, Bybit PWM has achieved notable gains on average:

  • BTC-focused strategies exceeded 10% APR
  • USDT strategies delivered 25% APR, with select high-performing portfolios reaching above 50% APR

Bybit PWM’s shock-resistant performance in a volatile world reflects Bybit’s commitment to building advanced wealth solutions, positioning the platform as a premier destination for high-net-worth individuals and corporate treasuries managing significant crypto allocations. 

The results also underscore the effectiveness of Bybit PWM’s data-driven and results-driven investment approach, which tailors strategies balance individual risk parameters and long-term investment objectives.

Bybit PWM is now open to VIP 2+ users on the Bybit Earn dashboard. PWM portfolios start at a minimum investment of 250,000 USDT, providing institutional-grade asset management for sophisticated investors seeking professional oversight of their digital asset holdings.

Bybit Private Wealth Management Posts Up to Over 50% in 30-Day APR Across Multiple Strategies
Bybit Private Wealth Management Posts Up to Over 50% in 30-Day APR Across Multiple Strategies

Terms and conditions apply. For subscription details, requirements, and personalized strategy consultation, eligible Bybit users who are VIP2+ or above can access PWM directly through the Bybit App’s Finance tab and navigate to the Wealth Management section.

#Bybit  / #NewFinancialPlatform 

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 80 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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