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XM Studios partners HIDDEN to deliver new art collectibles experience

Strategic alliance between two Singapore companies aims to build an engaged community of luxury art collectors, comic fans and lovers of pop culture.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 July 2024 – XM Studios, a multi-award-winning global design studio specialising in the creation of luxury art collectibles, has formed a strategic alliance with HIDDEN, a fast-growing local social enterprise specialising in immersive games, to deliver new interactive experiences that would enthral pop-culture lovers while cultivating a deeper appreciation for some of the most iconic collectibles in the world.

Ben Ang, CEO of XM Studios (left) and Lim Yee Hung, co-founder of HIDDEN, at the XM Studios Gallery at French Road in Singapore.
Ben Ang, CEO of XM Studios (left) and Lim Yee Hung, co-founder of HIDDEN, at the XM Studios Gallery at French Road in Singapore.

Leveraging both companies’ expertise, networks, and reach, this collaboration presents significant opportunities to create and nurture an engaged community of luxury art collectors, comic enthusiasts, and pop culture aficionados, extending beyond current possibilities.

A licensee of Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery Consumer Products, Hasbro and more, XM Studios has garnered numerous awards from community-led events by its clients, and from within the creative industry. It was the winner of Singapore’s Emerging Enterprise Award in 2018 and was previously awarded a prestigious “Mickey” award by Disney for Product of the Year.

Since 2022, HIDDEN has drawn on its strengths in storytelling, game design and technology to engage audiences through new immersive experiences. Over the years, the company’s unique chatbot-led games have won multiple awards, including the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2023 and 2024.

As part of the collaboration, HIDDEN is proud to announce the launch of an innovative interactive game, powered by its popular chatbot-led game engine, at XM Studios’ gallery within the Kitchener Complex building along French Road.

This engaging experience allows visitors to delve into the ‘hidden’ stories behind the gallery’s visually stunning displays, offering a unique opportunity to feel the passion and dedication that fueled their creation.

Through a series of unique puzzles and clues, visitors will learn more about XM Studios’ collectibles, which include large-format statues and intricate dioramas of iconic comic superheroes as well as other favourite characters from well-loved franchises.

This partnership unites an internationally acclaimed creative brand based in Singapore with a fast-expanding game company that blends physical and virtual experiences uniquely.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with HIDDEN, another enterprising Singapore company, to leverage technology in creating more engaging experiences that will grow our community of fans, customers, and friends,” said Ben Ang, CEO of XM Studios.

“We look forward to expanding this collaboration regionally to develop new ways to make our unique creations more engaging and interesting to a wider audience,” he added.

“As a personal collector of XM myself, Ben is the reason I am afraid to look at my credit card statement every month,” said Lim Yee Hung, co-founder of HIDDEN. “It feels surreal to be able to work directly with the creators of some of the most iconic works in pop culture today.”

“As part of our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this year alone we have paid out hundreds of thousands of dollars to our fellow independent businesses like Caffeine Xpress, Sourbombe, Tea Chapter, and now XM Studios,” he added.

As a newly-minted authorised distributor for XM Studios, HIDDEN has recently purchased thousands of licensed collectibles, which will be given to players who sign up for the interactive game within the XM Studios gallery.

For HIDDEN, the latest partnership builds on its earlier success in developing similar games and activities in Singapore. From couples on a date to corporate teams gathered for a fun day out, users have been attracted to HIDDEN’s adventure games by the rich content and interesting combination of the physical and digital worlds.

In November 2023, its popular adventure game was introduced at Changi Airport to enable users to explore the world-famous landmark through digital clues delivered to their phones.

Earlier this year, in April, HIDDEN’s adventure game was part of a national effort to promote the rich heritage of Singapore’s neighbourhoods. Partnering the National Heritage Board, HIDDEN provided a virtual quest in Katong-Joo Chiat to help launch the Heritage Activation Node (HAN) initiative to uncover the untold stories that make communities special.

Hashtag: #HIDDEN

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

ABOUT XM Studios

XM Studios is a Singapore-based global design studio that specialises in the production of handcrafted and hand-painted luxury art collectibles. With storytelling designs meant to evoke nostalgic memories, shaped by a collector base spanning the entire globe, XM Studios strives to perfect the most important element – the collecting experience itself. Recognised by international industry bodies as one of the best design houses in the pop culture collectibles space, XM Studios has been awarded ‘Product of the Year’ by Disney and ‘Most Innovative Product’ by Warner Bros. Discovery. In addition to being a winner of Singapore’s Emerging Enterprise Award, XM Studios has also scooped up numerous awards from community-led events such as the Statue Forum Awards.

Current intellectual property licences include Disney (Marvel, Mickey & Friends), Warner Bros. Discovery Consumer Products (DC: Batman, DC: Justice League, The Lord of the Rings, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, The Great Gatsby, Looney Tunes, Tom and Jerry, Scooby-Doo, DC: Super Pets), Hasbro (G1 Transformers, Beast Wars) and more. For more information, please visit

ABOUT HIDDEN

HIDDEN is an award-winning experiences company that combines the physical and virtual worlds to help players uncover hidden gems in a city’s iconic neighbourhoods. Launched in 2022, the company is the brainchild of two childhood friends who wanted to make heritage come alive and easily accessible through games and technology.

As a social enterprise under the United Nations Development Programme, HIDDENTM is committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all. For more information, please visit

Vantage Data Centers Opens First Taipei Facility

16MW data center will support hyperscale demand; company hosts grand opening ceremony to celebrate milestone


TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 July 2024 – Vantage Data Centers, a leading global provider of hyperscale data center campuses, today announced the grand opening of its first Taipei data center (TPE1). Located in the Taoyuan district of Taiwan, the 16MW facility can accommodate both cloud and high-density deployments, enabled with liquid cooling technology to support artificial intelligence (AI) and data-intensive applications.

Photo 1: (Left) Chang San-Cheng, Mayor of Taoyuan, Taoyuan City Government, (Center) Raymond Tong, President, Vantage APAC, (Right) Emile M.P. Chang, Director-General, Department of Investment Promotion, Ministry of Economic Affairs Photo 2: (Left) Michael Yang, Group Vice Chairman, Chairman of CTCI, Chang San-Cheng, Mayor of Taoyuan, Taoyuan City Government, Raymond Tong, President, Vantage APAC, Emile M.P. Chang, Director-General, Department of Investment Promotion, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Liang You-Wun, Director of Taipei, Bureau of Industrial Parks, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Photo 1: (Left) Chang San-Cheng, Mayor of Taoyuan, Taoyuan City Government, (Center) Raymond Tong, President, Vantage APAC, (Right) Emile M.P. Chang, Director-General, Department of Investment Promotion, Ministry of Economic Affairs

Photo 2: (Left) Michael Yang, Group Vice Chairman, Chairman of CTCI, Chang San-Cheng, Mayor of Taoyuan, Taoyuan City Government, Raymond Tong, President, Vantage APAC, Emile M.P. Chang, Director-General, Department of Investment Promotion, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Liang You-Wun, Director of Taipei, Bureau of Industrial Parks, Ministry of Economic Affairs

This milestone was celebrated with a grand opening ceremony today attended by industry leaders and several government officials, including:

  • Chang San-Cheng, Mayor of Taoyuan, Taoyuan City Government
  • Emile M.P. Chang, Director-General, Department of Investment Promotion, Ministry of Economic Affairs
  • Liang You-Wun, Director of Taipei, Bureau of Industrial Parks, Ministry of Economic Affairs
  • Michael Yang, Group Vice Chairman, Chairman of CTCI

“Taipei is a fast-moving technology hub with booming demand for hyperscale data centers to power next generation applications, cloud transformation and AI adoption. We are excited to launch our flagship Taipei data center to fulfill surging customer demand and enable the region’s digitalization,” said Raymond Tong, president of Vantage’s APAC business. “We look forward to welcoming customers moving into TPE1 and supporting their growing businesses.”

“Semiconductors and artificial intelligence industries are key components of President Lai’s ‘Five Trusted Industry Sectors,’ while data centers are the backbone infrastructure for AI development. Taiwan, with its globally recognized semiconductor supply chain and pool of AI talent, is definitely an ideal hub for AI development,” said Emile M.P. Chang, director-general, department of investment promotion, ministry of economic affairs. “The inauguration of Vantage’s TPE1 data center truly shows the international community’s recognition of Taiwan’s strides in AI and high-tech industry. I am confident that Vantage will leverage Taiwan’s technology advantages and continue to advance in the field of data centers.”

Located on two acres (one hectare), TPE1 is a five-story facility built in alignment with the local government’s focus on sustainable energy sources. The modern data center features an industry-leading power usage effectiveness (PUE) and low water usage effectiveness (WUE). TPE1 will be powered by Taiwan Power Company (Taipower), the local utility provider which is actively developing renewable energy and is committed to introducing low carbon, clean energy.

To learn more about Vantage’s growing presence across APAC, please visit https://vantage-dc.com/data-center-locations/apac/.

Hashtag: #VantageDataCenters

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

About Vantage Data Centers

Vantage Data Centers powers, cools, protects and connects the technology of the world’s well-known hyperscalers, cloud providers and large enterprises. Developing and operating across five continents in North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific, Vantage has evolved data center design in innovative ways to deliver dramatic gains in reliability, efficiency and sustainability in flexible environments that can scale as quickly as the market demands.

For more information, visit .

First Phosphate Confirms Longest High Grade Intersect to Date of 8.9% Igneous Phosphate Across 156 Metres from Surface at Its Begin-lamarche Project in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, Quebec, Canada


SAGUENAY, QUEBEC – Newsfile Corp. – 10 July 2024 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTC: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company“) is pleased to report results from another 11 drill holes at its Bégin-Lamarche project located in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec, Canada.

The Company’s 25,929 m drill program was completed ahead of schedule on April 29, 2024. All samples have now been shipped to Actlabs, ON, for analyses. Shortly, a 43-101 resource estimate will be initiated followed immediately by a Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”). Results of both studies are expected by end of fiscal Q4 2024.

Highlights:

  • Phosphate Mountain Zone:
    • Drill hole BL-24-92 intersected 8.13% P2O5 (phosphate) over 177.0 m starting at a surface depth of 15.0 m.
    • Drill hole BL-24-94 returned an intersection of 11.38% P2O5 over 99.0 m starting at a depth of 51.0 m including an interval of 14.56% P2O5 over 42.7 m starting at 89.0 m.
    • Drill hole BL-24-95 returned an intersection of 8.90% P2O5 over 156.0 m starting at a surface depth of 6.0 m.
  • Southern Zone:
    • Drill hole BL-24-88 intersected 7.18% P2O5 over 144.0 m from a depth of 261.0 m. This intersection is one of the highest phosphate concentrations in the Southern Zone.
    • Drill hole BL-24-89 intersected 5.99% P2O5 over 112.0 m starting at a depth of 233.0 m.
  • Northwestern Zone
    • Drill hole BL-24-91 intersected 7.63% P2O5 over 45.0 m starting from a depth of 84.0 m

“So far, we have intersected significant phosphate layers in all but 2 holes continuously across the 3 km magnetic trend at our Bégin-Lamarche project,” said First Phosphate CEO, John Passalacqua. “We are dealing with a significant phosphate horizon to be quantified shortly by a 43-101 resource estimate followed immediately by a PEA.”

Phosphate Mountain Zone

A total of 23 drill holes have been completed to date in the Phosphate Mountain Zone while results from 20 drill holes have been received to date. Data received from these 20 drill holes shows grades of over 10% P2O5 over widths ranging from 7 m to 99 m. The Phosphate Mountain Zone has been drilled for a total length of 250 m to date. This zone is beginning to merge (from the southwest) with the Northern Zone (See Figure 1) where a 500 m thick phosphate mineralized envelope exists, one which has delineated up to 5 individual layers ranging from 60 m to 100 m in thickness starting at surface and continuing down to a depth of 300 m. The overall strike length of the Phosphate Mountain Zone and the Northern Zone is approximately 600 m.

Drill hole BL-24-90 intersected 10.15% P2O5 (phosphate) over 84.0 m starting at a surface depth of 6.0 m. Drill hole BL-24-92 intersected 8.13% P2O5 (phosphate) over 177.0 m starting at a surface depth of 15.0 m. Within this intersection, three phosphate layers with grades over 10% were intersected. Drill hole BL-24-94 returned an intersection of 11.38% P2O5 over 99.0 m starting at a depth of 51.0 m including an interval of 14.56% P2O5 over 42.7 m starting at 89.0 m. Drill hole BL-24-95 returned an intersection of 8.90% P2O5 over 156.0 m starting at a surface depth of 6.0 m. (See Table 1).

Table 1 – Drill Results for the Phosphate Mountain Zone

Hole From (m) To (m) Length1 (m) P2O5 (%) TiO2 (%) Fe2O3T (%)
BL-24-85 102.0 134.0 32.0 11.54 4.28 25.80
BL-24-85 150.0 165.0 15.0 6.02 1.63 11.46
BL-24-90 6.0 90.0 84.0 10.15 2.82 21.43
including 6.0 35.0 29.0 10.95 3.09 26.07
including 54.0 90.0 36.0 12.29 3.23 21.60
BL-24-92 15.0 192.0 177.0 8.13 3.89 22.49
including 36.0 72.0 36.0 11.92 5.91 33.41
including 93.0 108.0 15.0 13.93 6.88 31.80
including 138.0 171.0 33.0 10.52 5.19 29.86
BL-24-94 51.0 150.0 99.0 11.38 3.98 25.37
including 5.0 27.0 22.0 9.62 5.14 29.73
including 89.0 131.7 42.7 14.56 4.52 26.11
BL-24-95 6.0 162.0 156.0 8.90 4.14 20.97
including 6.0 45.0 39.0 11.09 4.96 23.59
including 69.0 108.0 39.0 12.10 5.39 26.41
including 141.0 162.0 21.0 13.54 6.94 33.94
BL-24-98 18.0 33.0 15.0 4.62 2.24 12.74

1 Lengths are measured along the core. True widths are estimated to be between 70 and 90% of the core interval.

Southern Zone

The Southern Zone has been drilled at 100 m spaced sections over a strike length of 1,600 m. Results to date from the Southern Zone show continuous widths in excess of 100 m of phosphate mineralization.

Drill hole BL-24-88 intersected 7.18% P2O5 over 144.0 m from a depth of 261.0 m. This intersection is one of the highest phosphate concentrations in the Southern Zone. Drill hole BL-24-89 intersected 5.99% P2O5 over 112.0 m starting at a depth of 233.0 m. These results show that phosphate grades seem to increase with depth while widths remain over 100 m wide (see Table 2).

Table 2 – Drill Results for the Southern Zone

Hole From (m) To (m) Length1 (m) P2O5 (%) TiO2 (%) Fe2O3T (%)
BL-24-88 172.25 180.0 7.75 6.64 5.40 36.62
BL-24-88 219.0 363.0 144.0 7.18 4.61 31.02
including 261.0 307.6 46.6 8.89 5.25 34.84
BL-24-89 52.2 58.0 5.8 5.74 3.11 20.02
BL-24-89 128.7 141.0 12.3 4.65 2.83 16.20
BL-24-89 166.0 183.0 17.0 3.70 2.14 11.10
BL-24-89 195.7 199.0 3.3 7.64 5.17 28.45
BL-24-89 233.0 345.0 112.0 5.99 4.67 25.64
BL-24-93 132.0 349.4 217.4 4.92 4.08 21.90
including 324.0 349.4 25.4 7.44 4.95 28.33

1 Lengths are measured along the core. True width is estimated to be between 60% and 90% of the core interval.

Northwestern Zone

Drill hole BL-24-91 intersected 7.63% P2O5 over 45.0 m from a depth of 84.0 m and drill hole BL-24-99 intersected 7.25% P2O5 over 30.5 m starting at a depth of 92.0 m (See Table 3). These results show that the Northwestern zone has an average width of 40 m with grades between 7% and 9% P2O5.

Table 3Drill Results for the Northwestern Zone

Hole From (m) To (m) Length1 (m) P2O5 (%) TiO2 (%) Fe2O3T (%)
BL-24-91 84.0 129.0 45.0 7.63 4.05 24.55
BL-24-99 92.0 122.5 30.5 7.25 4.03 24.94

1 Lengths are measured along the core. True width is estimated to be over 80% of the core interval.

Summary

The technical parameters of the drill holes being released in this press release are shown in Table 4 below and their location is shown in Figure 1 below. A summary of the mineralized intersections from the 2024 drilling program is presented in Table 5.

Table 4 – Parameters for the Current Drill Holes Being Released

Hole_ID Easting Northing Azimuth Dip Length (m) Zone
BL-24-85 326970 5403759 330 -50 201 Mountain
BL-24-88 326227 5403246 125 -45 366 Southern
BL-24-89 325766 5401842 305 -45 366 Southern
BL-24-90 326884 5403904 150 -75 150 Mountain
BL-24-91 326231 5403247 330 -50 201 NW
BL-24-92 326874 5403806 150 -45 252 Mountain
BL-24-93 325558 5402120 125 -60 363 Southern
BL-24-94 326874 5403805 330 -70 225 Mountain
BL-24-95 326784 5403749 150 -45 162 Mountain
BL-24-98 326780 5403667 305 -45 246 Mountain
BL-24-99 326174 5403277 305 -80 252 NW

Table 5 – Other Previously Released Results for the 2024 Drill Campaign

Hole_ID From (m) To (m) Length (m) P2O5 (%) TiO2 (%) Fe2O3T (%)
BL-24-22 195.0 259.0 64.50 5.80 2.94 21.04
BL-24-23 21.0 175.1 154.1 7.02 4.40 27.34
BL-24-24 61.3 190.9 129.6 5.22 3.63 22.32
BL-24-25 74.2 117.0 42.8 9.89 3.54 28.65
BL-24-26 6.9 96.0 89.1 9.44 3.92 27.59
BL-24-27 138.0 189.0 51.0 4.41 3.05 20.62
BL-24-28 73.25 152.2 78.95 5.48 4.07 24.68
BL-24-29 99.0 276.0 177.0 4.46 3.63 22.85
BL-24-30 33.0 78.65 45.65 4.28 2.97 19.83
BL-24-31 119.85 213.8 93.95 7.16 3.49 18.76
BL-24-32 159.0 228.0 69.0 5.51 3.82 24.60
BL-24-33 3.8 110.0 106.2 5.00 3.70 21.19
BL-24-34 93.0 192.0 99.0 6.34 2.74 20.09
BL-24-35 212.5 253.7 41.2 6.25 3.44 19.55
BL-24-36 234.0 342.0 108.0 6.83 4.33 28.34
BL-24-37 84.0 126.0 42.0 6.03 4.47 28.57
BL-24-39 102.0 150.0 48.0 5.51 2.20 16.64
BL-24-40 186.0 274.2 88.2 7.76 2.86 21.87
BL-24-41 96.0 141.0 45.0 5.18 3.08 17.68
BL-24-42 6.6 188.7 182.1 5.04 3.09 17.77
BL-24-43 111.0 369.0 258.0 5.41 4.33 22.19
BL-24-44 192.4 283.0 90.6 7.48 3.38 23.64
BL-24-45 22.0 60.0 38.0 7.97 3.15 20.54
BL-24-46 155.2 177.6 22.4 14.33 5.83 28.28
BL-24-47 153.0 304.0 151.0 3.89 3.36 19.51
BL-24-48 32.0 39.65 7.65 15.01 2.59 19.17
BL-24-49 72.5 105.5 33.0 8.65 3.77 24.05
BL-24-50 4.2 93.0 88.8 5.90 4.14 23.62
BL-24-51 70.0 111.0 41.0 7.72 1.88 16.09
BL-24-52 204.0 247.7 43.7 7.04 3.62 24.50
BL-24-53 70.1 132.4 62.3 9.50 4.12 28.45
BL-24-53 154.1 246.0 91.9 6.92 3.50 20.08
BL-24-54 61.1 101.1 40.0 9.18 4.80 28.16
BL-24-55 4.0 194.8 190.8 4.60 3.64 19.83
BL-24-56 6.5 99.0 92.5 11.82 5.29 30.96
BL-24-56 123.0 162.0 39.0 8.43 3.18 17.56
BL-24-57 183.9 194.0 10.1 6.58 3.86 22.58
BL-24-58 81.0 144.0 63.0 4.02 3.46 18.82
BL-24-59 6.55 59.4 52.85 12.44 5.65 33.60
BL-24-60 3.7 197.7 194.0 5.21 3.81 22.50
BL-24-61 No significant results
BL-24-62 69.0 144.65 75.65 9.97 3.66 20.71
BL-24-63 37.7 297.0 259.3 5.21 3.80 21.65
BL-24-64 3.0 42.0 39.0 9.06 4.11 25.45
BL-24-65 144.7 162.5 17.8 10.37 5.40 31.00
BL-24-66 6.0 97.0 91.0 5.35 4.43 26.85
BL-24-67 3.0 87.0 84.0 11.85 5.09 32.49
BL-24-68 13.0 46.65 33.65 5.64 4.02 22.83
BL-24-69 29.0 65.1 36.1 9.81 3.26 22.36
BL-24-70 73.6 148.0 74.4 4.27 3.49 20.55
BL-24-71 73.3 174.9 101.6 4.76 3.52 19.60
BL-24-72 196.0 305.0 109.0 4.72 3.70 21.26
BL-24-73 195.2 366.0 170.8 5.23 4.13 22.38
BL-24-74 82.0 102.3 20.3 10.30 4.28 19.01
BL-24-75 118.2 135.0 16.8 6.01 4.34 26.65
BL-24-76 49.0 64.25 15.3 11.27 4.40 24.29
BL-24-77 174.0 360.0 186.0 4.53 3.23 19.64
BL-24-79 No significant results
BL-24-78 47.55 102.7 55.15 8.72 3.18 19.87
BL-24-80 2.4 74.55 72.15 6.59 2.37 16.23
BL-24-81 190.15 265.3 75.15 5.05 3.61 20.30
BL-24-82 6.0 83.7 77.7 11.07 3.28 18.63
BL-24-83 5.0 216.6 211.6 5.81 3.52 24.00
BL-24-84 205.9 283.0 77.1 8.41 4.14 22.75
BL-24-86 9.3 44.55 35.25 6.24 4.46 23.61
BL-24-87 173.6 198.0 24.4 7.12 5.57 28.79

Detailed results from the 2024 drill program are available at:

May 14, 2024: https://firstphosphate.com/May_14_2024
April 23, 2024: https://firstphosphate.com/April_23_2024
April 2, 2024: https://firstphosphate.com/drilling-2m-vein-of-massive-apatite
March 19, 2024: https://firstphosphate.com/initial-assay-results

Results for the earlier 4,661 m drill program conducted in 2023 can be found in the June 5, 2023 press release available at: https://firstphosphate.com/begin-lamarche-2023

Figure 1 – Drill Map for the 2024 Drill Program at Bégin-Lamarche

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8917/216044_2e8d303324111add_001full.jpg

Quality Assurance / Quality Control

The sampling of, and assay data from, the drill core is monitored through the Company’s implementation of a quality assurance – quality control (QA-QC) program designed to the CIM Mineral Exploration Best Practices Guidelines.

A formal chain-of-custody procedure was adopted for security of samples until their delivery at the laboratory. Drill core (NQ size) is logged and samples are selected by Laurentia Exploration Inc. geologists and sawn in half with a diamond saw at the project site. Half of the core is retained at the site for reference purposes. Sample intervals may vary from 0.5 to 3 metres in length depending on the geological observations. A blank and a standard are inserted at the beginning of each sample batch, usually one complete hole, and a blank and a standard are then inserted alternatively each 10 samples. Half-core samples are packaged and sent by ground transportation in sealed rice bags to an independent laboratory, Activation Laboratories Ltd. of Ancaster, Ontario (ISO/IEC 17025:2005 with CAN-P-1579). The core samples are crushed up to 80% passing 2mm (10 mesh), riffle split 250 g and pulverized (mild steel) to 95% passing -200 mesh. Each sample is analyzed for whole rock analysis (code 4B) for 10 major oxides and 7 trace elements by lithium metaborate/tetraborate fusion of 3g of material and analyze by ICP-OES. The laboratory has its own QA/QC protocols.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical disclosure for First Phosphate included in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Gilles Laverdière, P.Geo. Mr. Laverdière is Chief Geologist of First Phosphate and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”).

Purchase of Additional Mineral Claims for Shares

First Phosphate has entered into a mineral claims purchase agreement with arm’s length parties to acquire 15 additional mineral claims within the Bégin-Lamarche claim block in the area of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec. The effective closing date of the transaction is July 10, 2024 and compensation is to be satisfied through the issuance of 200,000 common shares of the Company (the “Shares”) at a deemed price of $0.20 per Share. These Shares will be subject to a statutory four month and one day hold period from closing of the transaction as well as an additional escrow period of 24 months from the closing date. The newly acquired claims are free from any royalty.

Stock Options

The Company has approved the grant of 150,000 stock options to purchase common shares of the Company (the “Options”) to an eligible person of the Company, at an exercise price of $0.40 per share, with an expiry date of three years from the date of issuance. The Options vest in 4 tranches (25% on December 31, 2024, June 30, 2025, December 31, 2025 and June 30, 2026). The terms of the Options granted are in accordance with the Company’s stock option plan approved by shareholders of the Company on August 25, 2023. All securities issued are subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities legislation.

Restricted Share Units (“RSUs”)

The Company has also granted 175,000 RSUs of the Company (“RSUs”) to an eligible consultant of the Company. The RSUs vest in 3 tranches (14% on August 31, 2024, and 43% on both November 30, 2024 and February 28, 2025). The RSUs are subject to the terms of the Company’s Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan as approved by disinterested shareholders at the Company’s annual and special meeting of shareholders held on August 25, 2023. All securities issued are subject to a hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance.

About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material (“CAM”) for the lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, at full ESG standard and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP CAM emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

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For additional information, please contact:

Bennett Kurtz, CFO
bennett@firstphosphate.com
Tel: +1 (416) 200-0657

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

Follow First Phosphate:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FirstPhosphate
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate/

Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statements

This news release contains certain statements and information that may be considered “forward-looking statements” and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “an opportunity exists”, “is positioned”, “estimates”, “intends”, “assumes”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved” and other similar expressions. In addition, statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements, including, among other things, the Company’s planned exploration and production activities, the properties and composition of any extracted phosphate, the Company’s plans for vertical integration into North American supply chains, statements relating to the Company’s planned exploration activities, including its drill target strategy and next steps for the Bégin-Lamarche Property; and the Company’s interpretations and expectations about the results on the Bégin-Lamarche Property.

These statements and other forward-looking information are based on assumptions and estimates that the Company believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances, including, without limitation, expectations of the Company’s long term business outcomes given its short operating history; expectations regarding revenue, expenses and operations; the Company having sufficient working capital and ability to secure additional funding necessary for the exploration of the Company’s property interests; expectations regarding the potential mineralization, geological merit and economic feasibility of the Company’s projects; expectations regarding drill programs and the potential impacts successful drill programs could have on the life of the mine and the Company; mineral exploration and exploration program cost estimates; expectations regarding any environmental issues that may affect planned or future exploration programs and the potential impact of complying with existing and proposed environmental laws and regulations; receipt and timing of exploration and exploitation permits and other third-party approvals; government regulation of mineral exploration and development operations; expectations regarding any social or local community issues that may affect planned or future exploration and development programs; expectations surrounding global economic trends and technological advancements; and key personnel continuing their employment with the Company.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include: limited operating history; high risk of business failure; no profits or significant revenues; limited resources; negative cash flow from operations and dependence on third-party financing; the uncertainty of additional funding; no dividends; risks related to possible fluctuations in revenues and results; insurance and uninsured risks; litigation; reliance on management and key personnel; conflicts of interest; access to supplies and materials; dangers of mineral exploration and related liability and damages; risks relating to health and safety; government regulation and legal uncertainties; the company’s exploration and development properties may not be successful and are highly speculative in nature; dependence on outside parties; title to some of the Company’s mineral properties may be challenged or defective; Aboriginal title and land claims; obtaining and renewing licenses and permits; environmental and other regulatory risks may adversely affect the company; risks relating to climate change; risks related to infrastructure; land reclamation requirements may be burdensome; current global financial conditions; fluctuation in commodity prices; dilution; future sales by existing shareholders could cause the Company’s share price to fall; fluctuation and volatility in stock exchange prices; and risks related to market demands. There can be no assurance that any opportunity will be successful, commercially viable, completed on time or on budget, or will generate any meaningful revenues, savings or earnings, as the case may be, for the Company. In addition, the Company will incur costs in pursuing any particular opportunity, which may be significant.

These factors and assumptions are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors and assumptions that could affect the Company and, though they should be considered carefully, should be considered in conjunction with the risk factors described in the Company’s other documents filed with the Canadian securities authorities, including without limitation the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Information Form dated November 29, 2023 which is available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify factors that would cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those disclosed in the forward-looking information or information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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

Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Sets Course for the Middle East


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – VinFast, a pioneering Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is making waves on the global stage with its meteoric rise. This upstart, emblematic of Vietnam’s burgeoning economic power, has now set its sights on the electric vehicle market in the Middle East.

VinFast EV manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam
VinFast EV manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam

Haiphong Harbor, once a symbol of a war long past, has serves as a tangible emblem of Vietnam’s rapid economic ascent. Yet, Haiphong signifies something even more profound – it’s the birthplace of VinFast, Vietnam’s first homegrown automaker with global ambitions.

A subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest conglomerate, VinFast has not only emerged as the country’s first carmaker but also established itself as a pioneer in the EV revolution.

VinFast’s Rapid Ascent

VinFast owes its existence to the vision and ambition of Vietnam’s richest man and Vingroup’s founder, Pham Nhat Vuong. Known for his decisiveness, Vuong established the car company in 2017.

Following the launch of 3 gasoline models, VinFast made a bold move: it was going all electric. The company delivered its first EVs to Vietnamese customers in December 2021, a remarkable feat achieved in less than five years.

The motivation behind VinFast’s lightning pace lies in Vuong’s laser focus and strategic partnerships. Vingroup, with its vast and multi-faceted resources, leveraged its expertise in construction and real estate development to establish a nationwide network of charging stations. To accelerate development, VinFast partnered with some of the automotive world’s heavyweights, including BMW and Pininfarina.

But why electric? Vuong once said that a large, successful enterprise such as Vingroup has a duty to contribute to its homeland by way of building a quality brand capable of competing with the world’s best.

“VinFast is not only a business project, but a devotion project,” he declared in a recent interview with Bloomberg.

Journey To The West

Initial domestic success proved to be a mere stepping stone for VinFast.

In 2022, the first VinFast VF 8s arrived on North American shores. The following year, VinFast debuted on NASDAQ, becoming a publicly listed company. VinFast’s bold foray into the U.S. market “sends a message about Vietnam’s rising profile in the global economy,” writes one expert.

Setting Sights on the Middle East

VinFast isn’t solely focused on North America. The company is also expanding into Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The latter region, with its growing environmental awareness and ambitions to diversify from fossil fuels, presents a particularly promising market for electric vehicles.

This is evident in the ambitious targets set by countries like the UAE, which aims to have 50% of its vehicles electric by 2050. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s investments in one American EV company further highlight the region’s commitment to electric mobility.

The Middle East’s young, affluent demographic also presents a lucrative market for VinFast’s electric vehicles. Mordor Intelligence projects the region’s EV market to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.20% between 2024 and 2029, reaching USD 9.42 billion.

VinFast has already begun making its moves in the region. In Oman, the company has partnered with Bahwan Automobiles Trading to distribute its electric vehicles. In the UAE, it has signed an exclusive dealership agreement with Al Tayer Motors. And more recently, VinFast has established a regional headquarters in Dubai.

VinFast’s foray into the Middle East signifies a new chapter in the brand’s global expansion and the region’s shift toward sustainable transportation. Only time will tell if VinFast’s Middle Eastern venture will replicate its domestic success, but the early signs are promising.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

PolyU researchers develop intelligent activewear for a dry and comfortable experience


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – The Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games are just around the corner and a global sports frenzy is underway. However, intense summer workouts often lead to sportswear absorbing excessive sweat, becoming clingy and cumbersome, causing discomfort and potentially impacting performance. A research team from the School of Fashion and Textiles at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has developed the iActive™ sportswear range which features a root-like liquid transport system and a skin-like active perspiration dissipater and utilises nature-inspired, anti-heat textile fabrics to expedite sweat removal, effectively reducing the weight and stickiness of activewear caused by sweat accumulation during exercise.

A research team led by Dr Shou Dahua, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies and Associate Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles at PolyU, has invented the groundbreaking iActive™, intelligent, electrically activated sportswear with a nature-inspired active perspiration function.
A research team led by Dr Shou Dahua, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies and Associate Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles at PolyU, has invented the groundbreaking iActive™, intelligent, electrically activated sportswear with a nature-inspired active perspiration function.

The human body has millions of sweat glands that are vital for regulating body temperature by dissipating sweat for evaporation to cool the skin’s surface. With unabating greenhouse gas emissions, the number of very hot days annually is expected to increase significantly. This will lead to elevated energy consumption and increased sweating during physical activity and outdoor labour. Even when wearing highly breathable clothes with good sweat-wicking properties, individuals may still experience discomfort due to excessive sweat accumulation.

A research team led by Dr SHOU Dahua, Limin Endowed Young Scholar in Advanced Textiles Technologies and Associate Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles at PolyU, has invented the groundbreaking iActive™, intelligent, electrically activated sportswear with a nature-inspired active perspiration function. This pioneering innovation has garnered significant recognition, including a Gold Medal at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva this April.

Its nature-inspired technologies, including low-voltage-driven artificial “sweat glands” created by skin-like anti-heat textile fabrics and a root-like branching liquid transport system that aligns with the body’s sweat map, can actively and programmably remove sweat to a perspiration dissipater at the lower region of the sportswear. The all-textile sweat dissipater is compact and operates at a safe output voltage of approximately 5-9V, and its battery is easy to detach from the clothing, making it convenient for users to repeatedly wash the clothing by hand or in a washing machine to maintain hygiene. When the human body’s sweat rate is low, iActive™ can still be used independently without the battery.

Based on the optimised wettability pattern and gradient, the research team utilises a skin-like textile fabric to transport sweat one-way quickly and dissipate it from the inside to the outside. This feature reduces the stickiness and weight of clothing, improves breathability and ensures the garments remain dry and comfortable to wear. Experimental findings indicate that iActive™ creates a breathable and dry skin microclimate by dissipating sweat at a rate that is three times faster than the maximum human sweating rate. This innovation can also prevent discomfort from coldness and moisture after a workout. In comparison to traditional fabrics, the textile materials in iActive™ are 60% lighter and 50% less clingy when soaked, providing the wearer with all-round comfort and enabling sports enthusiasts and athletes to perform at their best.

Furthermore, a mobile app further aids personalised sweat management by wirelessly adjusting the sweat level of iActive™. This innovation is versatile and can be seamlessly integrated into a variety of textile materials to facilitate sustainable mass production. Beyond sportswear, iActive™ is also well-suited to protective clothing and workwear for individuals engaged in prolonged, high-intensity physical labour and outdoor occupations, including healthcare professionals, construction workers, firefighters, law enforcement officers and others, thereby significantly enhancing their work performance.

Dr Shou Dahua stated, “The extreme weather and high temperatures resulting from global warming have elevated the importance of heatstroke prevention and cooling measures on a global scale. Drawing on the vivid phenomena of thermal insulation and directed liquid flow in nature, we aim to foster innovation and sustainable advancement in garment manufacturing by inventing intelligent clothing and materials to address global challenges. We seek to harness the power of technology to infuse fresh perspectives into the traditional clothing industry, thereby enhancing its competitiveness.”

His research team has also developed a premium fabric named Omni-Cool-Dry™, drawing inspiration from volcano dwelling beetles. This fabric not only provides ultra-fast sweat dissipation and ensures all-day comfort with its dry and breathable features under dynamic thermal conditions, but also reflects solar radiation and emits body heat into the cold universe, enabling passive cooling. The team is working hard to leverage the benefits of both inventions to further enhance the sweat-dissipating and cooling capability of iActive™ sportswear.

Dr Shou Dahua, a core member of the PolyU Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems and the Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion, has recently been bestowed with the 2023 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Fiber Society for his outstanding contributions to the fields of personal thermal and moisture management, intelligent wearables and soft robotics. The accolade is presented annually to an individual researcher worldwide. He has also received international innovation awards, including consecutive TechConnect Global Innovation Awards in 2021 and 2022. Moreover, his research papers have been published in various internationally renowned academic journals including Science Advances, PNAS, Advanced Functional Materials, and Advanced Energy Materials. Dr Shou will be chairing The Fiber Society Spring 2025 Conference at PolyU.

Hashtag: #PolyU

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

Laos, Singapore Strengthen Ties in Education, Clean Energy

Lao PM Sonexay Siphandone and Singaporean PM Lawrence Wong (Photo: Photo Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Laos and Singapore have agreed to enhance collaboration on education and carbon credits, with two agreements signed on 9 July during Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone’s official trip to the country.

‘Medlab Asia & Asia Health 2024’ Grand Opening Under Concept ‘International Healthcare Week’

Expected to generate value over 1.64 billion baht for medical laboratory and healthcare.


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – Informa Markets launched “Medlab Asia & Asia Health 2024,” the largest medical laboratory and medical device trade show and conference in Southeast Asia. Under the concept of International Healthcare Week, it focuses on presenting advancements and innovations in the medical industry, creating opportunities and business networks for entrepreneurs during challenging in the Thai and Asian healthcare industries, and enhancing knowledge for healthcare personnel.

Grand Opening Ceremony
Grand Opening Ceremony

Mr. Manu Leopairote, Chairman of Informa Markets Thailand, stated, “This year, Informa Markets has combined three major events in Southeast Asia: Medlab Asia, Asia Health, and CPHI Southeast Asia, under the concept of International Healthcare Week. This platform is the most important for global health experts to network, learn, and do business, focusing on innovative products and solutions related to medical laboratories, medical devices, health solutions, and the pharmaceutical industry value chain, including academic conferences, seminars, and meetings across all related sectors. This aligns with Thailand being ranked 6th out of 195 countries for health security, bolstering Thailand’s reputation as Asia’s medical hub.”

Ms. Rungphech Chitanuwat, Group Director – ASEAN at Informa Markets, as the organizer of Medlab Asia and Asia Health, said, “The medical laboratory and healthcare business in Thailand has significantly improved compared to 2023 due to increased demand for medical devices following the expansion of hospitals and healthcare facilities, the rise in the elderly population, and the public’s growing health awareness. These are key factors driving growth in Thailand’s medical device business. Additionally, government support for promoting the medical industry, the introduction of new technologies and innovations enhancing treatment efficiency, collaboration between public and private sectors in research and development, and increased investment in medical infrastructure, all drive the growth of the medical laboratory and medical device industry.”

“Medlab Asia and Asia Health 2024 is the leading platform for the ASEAN medical laboratory and medical device industry, providing unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and medical personnel to network, connect businesses, share knowledge, and update on the latest medical advancements to enhance business opportunities in the industry and in Asia. This year, over 350 companies from 50 countries will exhibit. Over 10,000 attendees and business matches with potential industry buyers are expected, with an expect to generate value over 1.64 billion baht,” said Rungphech.

Countries participating in showcasing medical products and technologies this year include Singapore, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, Canada, Germany, Poland, Hungary, India, Italy, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, the UAE, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Thailand, and more. Leading companies such as Dedalus, AGD, AL FAHIM Healthcare Solutions, Autobio, DBC, Healthium, Sekisui Veredus, Snibe, TOP, URIT, WonFo, YHLO, Beacon, DNA-Technology, FAPON, and OneCell Diagnostics will participate.

Products highlight include the DTprime RT-PCR system for DNA/RNA targets analysis is an optimum choice for diagnostic laboratories with high throughput of routine tests, the V-VEIL UP2 is a self-sampling medical device used to collect secretions, various fluids and substances that are in the vaginal cavity and cervix for diagnostic laboratory testing, the Theruptor NXT is a next-generation wound dressing solution aimed at providing optimal wound management which is designed to cater to acute wounds, the OncoIndx offers Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP) across all Solid Tumors. It is a well-validated NGS test to extract therapy information from both tissues as well as blood samples with a Faster Turn Around Time of less than 15 days. Clinalytix Medical AI is an AI assistant for healthcare providers. It predicts and notifies users of each patient’s risk of a set of acute clinical complications, by leveraging the mass of structured and free-text medical data available in each patient’s Electronic Health Record (EHR), and more.

Besides showcasing medical products and technologies, Medlab Asia and Asia Health also hosts scientific academic conferences for professionals to enhance careers and expand knowledge in the ever-changing healthcare world. Renowned speakers from around the world will lead Medlab Asia conferences on topics such as laboratory management, clinical chemistry, molecular diagnostics, clinical microbiology, anatomic pathology, and hematology. Asia Health conferences will cover digital health, future medical practices, hospital management, medical device reimbursement and national health funds, patient safety, radiology, and sterile processing and infection control. Attendees will receive CME, CMTE, CPD, and CNEU continuing education credits. Additionally, there will be seminars for the medical device business sector on doing business in Asia, providing updates on business opportunities in Thailand and Asia for industry entrepreneurs and interested parties.

Interested individuals can visit “Medlab Asia & Asia Health 2024,” showcasing medical laboratory, medical device, and international medical academic conferences, from today until July 12, 2024, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Visitors can register at https://www.medlabasia.com/.

Hashtag: #medlabasia #asiahealth



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

About Medlab Asia and Asia Health

As the ASEAN region’s leading medical laboratory and healthcare exhibition and congress, Medlab Asia and Asia Health play a crucial role in developing the value of medical laboratory and healthcare by transforming tomorrow’s diagnostics. They provide a platform for industry leaders, including manufacturers, dealers, and distributors, to share best practices, showcase innovations, and collaborate and network.

Thai Robber Apprehended in Laos After Bangkok Robbery

Thai Robber Apprehended in Laos After Bangkok Robbery
Nantaporn “Ball” Piantamdee, who has a history of serious offenses and has been arrested multiple times in the past. (photo credit: Bangkok Post)

Lao authorities apprehended a Thai man in Khammouane Province on 7 July for conspiring with an accomplice to steal THB 3.3 million (about USD 90,700) from a victim in Bangkok, Thailand.