Home Blog Page 973

BON Announces Breakthrough Development of Apple Bio-Electronic Mask: Clinical Data Exceeds Expectations, Targeting $100B+ Medical Aesthetics Market

XI’AN, China, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bon Natural Life Limited (Nasdaq: BON) (“Bon” or the “Company”), a leading provider of bio-ingredient solutions in the natural, health, and personal care industries, today announced the successful development of a premium anti-aging facial mask incorporating apple polyphenols as its core active ingredient and integrated with AI-enabled flexible bio-electronic technology. Leveraging advanced transdermal delivery systems, this product integrates plant-derived active ingredients with intelligent flexible electronics, creating a next-generation skin care solution designed to be non-invasive, painless, and suitable for at-home use.

Serving as the core natural active ingredient of this product, apple polyphenols are extracted from premium apple pomace and contain polyphenolic compounds such as proanthocyanidins and quercetin. These compounds are widely studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties. Published research indicates that apple polyphenols may help inhibit collagen degradation, reduce UV-induced oxidative stress, and support melanin metabolism, contributing to visible improvements in skin firmness, brightness, and overall appearance. Powered by its AI-enabled flexible bio-electronic platform, BON’s mask combines flexible electronic materials with smart controlled-release technology to enhance transdermal penetration of the active ingredients. This approach is designed to address the absorption limitations typically associated with conventional topical skincare products.

At present, the Company has completed sample development and preliminary internal performance evaluations of the AI-powered flexible bio-electronic mask incorporating apple polyphenols. Across key performance indicators — including the appearance of fine lines, skin firmness, UV-related skin stress, and overall brightness — the initial results have exceeded internal benchmarks. In the next phase, the Company plans to initiate expanded third-party clinical testing while advancing product finalization and optimizing large-scale manufacturing processes.

According to industry data, the global anti-aging market has surpassed $100 billion, with premium transdermal delivery devices and advanced formulations representing one of the fastest-growing segments. By combining the functional properties of apple polyphenols with proprietary bio-electronic mask technology, BON believes it is well positioned to capture a first-mover advantage within this emerging premium segment.

Hu Yongwei, Chairman and CEO of BON, stated: “This is a strategic product driven by technology and guided by market demand. Through AI-powered flexible electronic technology, we are enhancing the transdermal delivery efficiency of apple polyphenols, addressing growing consumer demand for high-performance, non-invasive anti-aging solutions. This milestone represents BON’s entry into the high-growth, high-value medical-grade beauty segment and reinforces our ecosystem strategy of ‘AI + Bioactive Ingredient.’ By delivering safe and effective skincare innovations, we aim to establish a second growth engine characterized by strong pricing power, high repurchase potential, and attractive margins, creating long-term value for our shareholders”.

About Bon Natural Life Limited (“BON”)

BON is a Cayman Islands company engaged in the business of natural, health, and personal care industries. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at http://www.bnlus.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains certain statements that may include “forward-looking statements.” All statements other than statements of historical fact included herein are “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “expects” or similar expressions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company’s periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.

 

Hanwha Ocean Signs Landmark Agreements to Strengthen Canada’s Sovereign Defence Industrial Capacity, Expand Domestic Shipbuilding Workforce, and Accelerate Large-Scale Shipbuilding in Ontario

Strategic MOU advances industrial capability and technology transfer in Ontario; trilateral LOI establishes an embedded shipbuilding workforce development and innovation hub

HAMILTON, ON, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hanwha Ocean and Ontario Shipyards have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate the return of large-scale shipbuilding in Ontario and to strengthen Canada’s ability to deliver future naval programs.

Key representatives pose for a commemorative photo following the Hanwha Ocean–Ontario Shipyards MOU signing and the trilateral LOI ceremony with Mohawk College. Front row, from left: Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong, Hanwha Ocean CEO Kim Hee-cheul, and Ontario Shipyards CEO Shaun Padulo, joined by Canadian Members of Parliament and other local officials after the signing ceremonies.
Key representatives pose for a commemorative photo following the Hanwha Ocean–Ontario Shipyards MOU signing and the trilateral LOI ceremony with Mohawk College. Front row, from left: Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong, Hanwha Ocean CEO Kim Hee-cheul, and Ontario Shipyards CEO Shaun Padulo, joined by Canadian Members of Parliament and other local officials after the signing ceremonies.

In parallel, Hanwha Ocean, Ontario Shipyards and Mohawk College have entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) to establish an embedded shipbuilding training hub at Ontario Shipyards’ Hamilton facility, aligned with the sector’s long-term workforce requirements.

Together, the agreements establish a coordinated industrial and workforce development framework intended to position Ontario as a scalable centre of excellence for defence-related shipbuilding and advanced marine manufacturing in the Great Lakes region.

Memorandum of Understanding

Hanwha Ocean and Ontario Shipyards

Under the bilateral MOU, Hanwha Ocean will provide structured technical and operational support to Ontario Shipyards to strengthen production readiness and shipyard performance.

The cooperation will focus on:

  • design and engineering
  • production planning and construction sequencing
  • quality management systems
  • advanced shipyard processes and smart-yard best practices

These measures are intended to accelerate the re-establishment of large-scale vessel construction capability in Ontario, enhance production efficiency, and support long-term naval industrial readiness.

As part of this cooperation, Hanwha Ocean will provide support to the design and construction for a Training and Recruitment vessel that Ontario Shipyards will begin building in 2026, serving as a practical demonstration of next-generation shipbuilding capability in the province.

Subject to the award of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), Hanwha Ocean intends to pursue further strategic investment in Ontario, including the establishment of a dedicated shipbuilding training centre and expanded industrial cooperation with Ontario-based suppliers.

Letter of Intent

Hanwha Ocean, Ontario Shipyards and Mohawk College

The trilateral LOI establishes a structured pathway to address persistent shortages in skilled trades and technical professionals critical to shipbuilding.

The collaboration will focus on:

  • establishing an integrated training hub embedded within Ontario Shipyards’ Hamilton Shipyard
  • developing industry-led credentials and specialized shipbuilding certifications
  • supporting apprenticeship and co-op pathways aligned with production requirements
  • exploring applied research in automation, robotics ad digital manufacturing

Under this framework:

  • Mohawk College will lead academic programming across skilled trades and technology disciplines including welding, electrical, millwright, marine mechanics, robotics, logistics, and non-destructive evaluation..
  • Ontario Shipyards will provide facilities and direct workforce integration aligned with its production and expansion plans.
  • Hanwha Ocean will contribute technical advisory support and access to its global industrial networks to align training with international standards and operational best practices.

Strengthening Ontario’s Role in Canada’s Marine Defence Ecosystem

By integrating industrial modernization with structured workforce development, the partnership aligns with Ontario’s advanced manufacturing strategy and Canada’s broader objective to strengthen sovereign defence industrial capability.

The coordinated framework is expected to:

  • generate and sustain high-quality skilled employment
  • expand Ontario-based marine and defence supply chains
  • increase participation of regional small and medium-sized enterprises
  • strengthen Canada’s domestic capacity to construct, maintain and sustain complex naval platforms

Over the long term, the initiative is designed to position the Golden Horseshoe and the broader Great Lakes region as a nationally significant hub for advanced marine manufacturing and shipbuilding.

Quotes

Kim Hee-cheul, President and CEO, Hanwha Ocean
“Our objective is not simply to transfer expertise, but to embed Hanwha Ocean’s advanced shipbuilding processes and operational know-how directly into Ontario Shipyard operations. By doing so, we are strengthening Canada’s domestic industrial base, supporting high-quality Canadian jobs, and ensuring long-term workforce readiness. This partnership reflects our commitment to building sustainable submarine construction and sustainment capacity in Canada, fully aligned with the objectives of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project.”

Shaun Padulo, President and CEO, Ontario Shipyards
“At its core, this partnership is about people. With Hanwha Ocean working alongside our teams and Mohawk College training the next generation in a live shipyard, we are building the Canadian workforce that will deliver and sustain Canadian ships for decades to come. That is how sovereign capacity is created. This partnership activates Ontario’s industrial strength in direct support of the National Shipbuilding Strategy and the future of the Royal Canadian Navy and creates meaningful long-term careers for Canadians.

Paul Armstrong, President, Mohawk College
Mohawk College believes in the strength and power of industry-led learning. By working alongside Hanwha Ocean and Ontario Shipyards, we are creating an environment where expertise, innovation, and education come together to support workforce development. This collaboration will strengthen advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding capability in Canada and help build the skilled talent required for long-term success in a rapidly evolving marine sector.”

Big Tree Cloud Holdings Limited Announces Implementation of Class A/B Share Structure and 1-for-20 Share Consolidation

SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Big Tree Cloud Holdings Limited (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: DSY) today announced that it held an extraordinary general meeting on January 30, 2026, at which the shareholders approved the consolidation of every 20 ordinary shares into one ordinary share and the adoption of a dual-class share structure (comprising Class A and Class B ordinary shares). The Company’s Class A ordinary shares are expected to begin trading on The Nasdaq Capital Market at the open of business on February 23, 2026, and will continue to trade under the symbol “DSY” and the new CUSIP number G1263B132.

Reverse Stock Split

The Reverse Stock Split has been approved by the Company’s shareholders and the Company’s board of directors. The ordinary shares were consolidated by consolidating each 20 ordinary shares of the Company, with such consolidated ordinary shares having the same rights and being subject to the same restrictions (save as to par value) as the existing ordinary shares.

No fractional shares were issued, and any fractional share interests resulting from the consolidation were rounded up to the next whole share. The Reverse Stock Split affects all shareholders uniformly and will not alter any shareholder’s percentage interest in the Company’s outstanding ordinary shares, except for adjustments that may result from the rounding up of fractional shares.

Dual-Class Share Structure

Upon and immediately following the effectiveness of the Share Consolidation, the authorised share capital of the Company was changed from US$50,000 divided into 25,000,000 ordinary shares of a nominal or par value of US$0.002 each to US$50,000 divided into 25,000,000 comprising 20,000,000 class A ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each and 5,000,000 class B ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each.

Upon and immediately following the effectiveness of the Dual-Class Share Structure, the shares of the Company were redesignated with immediate effect as follows:

(i)   the 3,500,000 issued ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each in the capital of the Company registered in the name of PLOUTOS GROUP LIMITED be redesignated as 3,500,000 issued class B ordinary shares of US$0.002 each (the Class B Ordinary Shares);
(ii)   the remaining 1,251,873 issued ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each in the capital of the Company registered in the names of various shareholders be redesignated as 1,251,873 issued class A ordinary shares of US$0.002 each;
(iii)   the 18,748,127 authorised but unissued ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each in the capital of the Company be redesignated as 18,748,127 authorised but unissued class A ordinary shares; and
(iv)   the 1,500,000 authorised but unissued ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each in the capital of the Company be redesignated as 1,500,000 authorised but unissued class B ordinary shares.

Concurrently, the Company amended its memorandum and articles of incorporation to adjust the authorised share capital of the Company to US$50,000 divided into 25,000,000 comprising 20,000,000 class A ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each and 5,000,000 class B ordinary shares of par value of US$0.002 each. All outstanding options, warrants, and other securities granting holders the right to purchase or acquire ordinary shares, if any, will be adjusted in accordance with their respective terms.

Management Commentary
“Today marks a significant milestone as we implement a refined capital structure designed to support the next phase of growth for Big Tree Cloud,” stated a company spokesperson. “This share consolidation aims to establish a stronger market position for our stock. The introduction of a dual-class structure provides our management team with the stability needed to execute our long-term vision and strategy, focusing on driving innovation and sustainable value for all stakeholders. These proactive measures strengthen our corporate foundation and underscore our commitment to robust governance.”

About Big Tree Cloud
Founded in 2020, Big Tree Cloud is positioned as an international capital platform focused on industrial integration and strategic investment in China’s personal care industry. The Company is committed to empowering industries through capital operations. Currently, Big Tree Cloud is accelerating its expansion into the AI sector. This new business line aims to capture the growing market demand for AI skills, injecting fresh momentum into the Company’s development.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct. The Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results, and encourages investors to read the risk factors contained in the Company’s final prospectus and other reports it files with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) before making any investment decisions regarding the Company’s securities. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Investor Relations Contact
Ting Yan
Phone: +86 15986815865
Email: yanting@bigtreeclouds.com

Fractal launches Vaidya 2.0, outperforming leading frontier models on Healthcare AI Benchmarks

Vaidya 2.0 is the first AI model to achieve a 50+ score on OpenAI’s HealthBench (hard), outperforming GPT-5 and Google’s Gemini Pro 3

NEW YORK, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fractal (www.fractal.ai), a global provider of artificial intelligence (AI) to Fortune 500® companies, today announced the launch of Vaidya 2.0, the next generation of its healthcare reasoning models available at Vaidya.ai. Debuting at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Vaidya 2.0 scores 50.1 on HealthBench (hard), outperforming OpenAI’s GPT-5 and Google’s Gemini Pro 3 on this challenging benchmark.

OpenAI HealthBench Hard
OpenAI HealthBench Hard

Designed to power “Health Care Operating System” based workflows, Vaidya 2.0 bridges the gap between raw data and healthcare action. It is the first AI model in the world to achieve 50+ score on OpenAI’s HealthBench (hard) The model has been post-trained to deliver superior performance on a wide range of health care workflows. Read more about OpenAI’s HealthBench benchmark here.

Redefining the Healthcare Journey

Vaidya 2.0 significantly enhances model capabilities for enabling real-world healthcare use cases, including citizen facing use-cases such as:

  • Emergency Assist: Rapid triage and decision support in critical windows.
  • Symptom Checker: High-fidelity reasoning for citizen-facing wellness.
  • Patient Journey Assist: End-to-end support from first symptom to treatment adherence.

Vaidya 2.0 models also demonstrate a significant performance on MedExpert benchmark and introduce new capabilities to support Doctor Assist. These capabilities combined with the Administrator Assist capabilities from OpenAI HealthBench (hard) Health Data Tasks enhances ability to cater to medical professionals.

Scaling for the India AI Mission

As a partner selected under the ₹10,300+ crore India AI Mission, Fractal is at the forefront of building India’s sovereign AI capabilities. Vaidya 2.0 represents the first of many verticalized foundation models designed to solve the unique challenges of the Global South – frugal, scalable, and impact-driven.

“India has built strong digital health foundations over the past decade – from ABHA health IDs to Ayushman Bharat and e-Sanjeevani. The next step is adding reliable reasoning intelligence to those systems,” said Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder, Group Chief Executive & Vice Chairman, Fractal. “When you combine India’s digital health infrastructure with reliable reasoning AI, you unlock a new operating model for public health. At India’s population scale, intelligence must be accurate, transparent, and accountable. That is the problem Vaidya 2.0 is built to solve.”

“With Vaidya 2.0, we’ve moved from the knowledge-based foundation models to more advanced post-trained reasoning and agentic based healthcare models” added Suraj Amonkar, Chief AI Research & Platforms Officer, Fractal. “By ranking top globally, on the OpenAI HealthBench (hard) that focuses on realistic healthcare conversations and also showing leading performance on the MedExpert Benchmark that evaluates expert-level medical reasoning, Vaidya 2.0 models demonstrate a health-operating system approach that is not only more comprehensive, but also more reliable and accurate across a wide variety of healthcare workflows.”

Visit Us at the India AI Impact Summit

Fractal is showcasing Vaidya 2.0 and its suite of healthcare innovations at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, held at Bharat Pavilion inside the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

  • Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
  • Hall No. 14 Pod No:P30
  • Dates: February 16 to February 20, 2026

For more information, visit www.vaidya.ai.

About Fractal

Fractal (NSE: FRACTAL) is a publicly listed global enterprise AI company with a vision to power every human decision in the enterprise.

Fractal’s suite of businesses includes Asper.ai (enabling interconnected decisions for revenue growth) and Analytics Vidhya (among the world’s largest data science communities). Fractal spun out Qure.ai, a global healthcare AI leader enhancing the rapid identification and management of tuberculosis, lung cancer, and stroke. Fractal’s dedicated AI Research team is focused on foundational AI advancements, including knowledge-based foundational models, reasoning-based systems, and agentic systems. The team has launched successful products, including MarshallGoldsmith.ai, Vaidya.ai, Kalaido.ai, and the open-source reasoning model Fathom-R1-14B and tool-based reasoning model Fathom-DeepResearch.

Fractal employs over 5,000 professionals across global locations, including the United States, Canada, the UK, the Netherlands, Ukraine, India, Singapore, South Africa, the UAE, and Australia. It has consistently earned recognition as one of India’s Best Companies to Work For (Top 100, 2025), a ‘Great Workplace’ for eight consecutive years, and as one of ‘India’s Best Workplaces for Women’ for five years running by the Great Place to Work® Institute. Fractal was also named a Leader in the 2025 Forrester Wave™ for Customer Analytics Service Providers and earned leadership positions in the Everest Group Peak Matrix Assessment 2025 for AI and Analytics Services, and Information Services Group’s 2024 assessments for Data Engineering and Data Science Services.

 

Health Bench Hard | Emergency Referrals
Health Bench Hard | Emergency Referrals

 

Health Bench Hard | Context Seeking
Health Bench Hard | Context Seeking

 

Health Bench Hard | Hedging
Health Bench Hard | Hedging

 

Health Bench | Health Data Tasks
Health Bench | Health Data Tasks

 

MedExpert
MedExpert

 

3Shape Boosts Dental Lab Speed and Accuracy with AI-Powered Workflows

COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At LMT LabDay today, 3Shape showcases its AI-powered and integrated workflows that help dental labs work faster, reduce errors, and handle more cases efficiently.

A reliable bite setup in seconds

Scans from intraoral scanners can sometimes include missing or inaccurate bite data. To save them time and eliminate their need for manual adjustment of missing jaw relationship data, 3Shape Dental System 2025 has introduced AI-bite alignment.

The AI bite alignment tool analyzes dental arches in the scans and places them in a static occlusion based on anatomical norms and its trained models. Even when cases’ original scans include an incorrect bite, 3Shape’s AI bite will deliver a reliable bite setup for them in seconds. Lab professionals can preview results and make quick adjustments, saving time and reducing manual work.

3Shape Dental System 2025 also leverages AI for tooth outlining and margin line detection in its copy denture workflow. Labs no longer need to place only annotation points, as AI automatically detects and draws margin lines based on each tooth anatomy. This will help to reduce repetitive adjustment steps and enable professionals to finalize their designs faster.

Bridges now included with free AI design proposals in Dental System 2025

Dental System 2025 users can also take advantage of free AI-powered bridge design proposals to maximize their productivity and manage peak loads more effectively. 

The free service supports cemented bridges of up to 4 units with any combination of crowns and pontics. The new bridge indication is available in addition to the already offered, AI crown, inlay, and onlay designs. All AI design proposals are fully editable. The service is included for free with a 3Shape LabCare subscription*. 

Manage every case – from scan to delivery – with 3Shape LMS

3Shape has updated its LMS software with an enhanced native integration with Dental System and 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanners. For Dental System and LMS users, double data entry is eliminated as case information is synched between the two platforms.  

Similarly, for labs working with dentists using 3Shape TRIOS, client communications between the two platforms are now centralized through the 3Shape Unite Cloud, so teams and tasks are better aligned, and cases moved forward with better clarity and control.

Streamlined full-arch restorative planning – 3Shape Implant Studio

3Shape has released a new version of 3Shape Implant Studio with simplified workflows for full-arch restorative planning, including advanced treatments like All-on-4, All-on-6, multi-unit abutments (MUA), and screw-retained crowns.

The integration between Implant Studio and Dental System 2025 has been strengthened, allowing restorative components to be designed directly in Dental System based on Implant Studio planning. This ensures a fully digital workflow and reduces the risk of data transfer errors.

“Our focus has always been to simplify and elevate the lab experience,” said Christian Rytter, Senior Product Director for Labs at 3Shape. “By streamlining workflows, enhancing lab management, and eliminating unnecessary steps, we’re delivering the speed, performance, and predictability labs need to grow their business.”

Lina Danstrup
Director and Head of Corporate Communications
lina.danstrup@3shape.com 

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

https://news.cision.com/3shape/r/3shape-boosts-dental-lab-speed-and-accuracy-with-ai-powered-workflows,c4310111

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/22994/4310111/3942827.pdf

3Shape Boosts Dental Lab Speed and Accuracy with AI-Powered Workflows

https://news.cision.com/3shape/i/labday2026-pr-ai-margin-line-in-copy-dentures,c3512043

LabDay2026-PR-AI Margin line in Copy Dentures

 

Vale Base Metals secures future of Manitoba mine with new consortium to invest up to US$200 million into Thompson Nickel Belt

TORONTO, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Vale Base Metals (“VBM”) today announced it is partnering with three companies to create a new consortium of owners that will invest up to US$200 million (C$280 million) to secure the future of nickel mining and jobs in Thompson, Manitoba.

Exiro Minerals Corp. (“Exiro”), Orion Resource Partners LP (“Orion”), and Canada Growth Fund Inc. (“CGF”) will form a new company alongside Vale Base Metals to invest in the Thompson Mine Complex. Exiro, Orion and CGF will own 81.1% of the new company, while VBM will own an 18.9% minority stake.

The new company will be known as Exiro Nickel Company (“Exiro Nickel.”)

VBM has also signed an offtake agreement for the nickel concentrate produced at the Thompson Mill to maintain its strategic position as Canada’s leading nickel producer.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026, subject to certain closing conditions including customary regulatory and government authorization. If approved, the transaction will conclude the strategic review VBM launched for the Thompson operations in January 2025. In the interim, VBM will maintain day-to-day operational responsibility for the mining complex until the deal closes.

The consortium recognizes the value of stable employment in the region and believes this transaction and investment offers the best opportunity for a competitive and sustainable future for the new company and the employees and community who depend on it. Exiro Nickel is committed to running the Thompson operations safely, responsibly, and sustainably, investing in its future while honouring all existing agreements with local stakeholders and Indigenous communities.

The Thompson Mine Complex includes two underground operating mines, an adjacent mill and significant exploration opportunities on the 135-km long Thompson Nickel Belt, a deposit with significant resource upside and a rich history of mining since 1956. In 2025, Thompson produced 12.0 thousand metric tonnes of VBM’s finished nickel – an increase of 21.2% from the 9.9 thousand metric tonnes produced in 2024.

The strategic review of the Thompson operations was part of an ongoing process to ensure the competitiveness of VBM’s global mining portfolio and give its Manitoba mining operations the best opportunity to create long-term shareholder and societal value.

Quote from Shaun Usmar, CEO of Vale Base Metals

  • “Today’s announcement secures the future of mining at Thompson, a site with a significant endowment and great people, and which is a key part of northern Manitoba’s rich mining history.”
  • “We believe in the strategic value of nickel and are proud to be part of Thompson’s new future.”
  • “I am extremely proud of all our mining operations have contributed to the region over the past 60 years and am delighted this significant new investment will be able to help unlock the operation’s full potential, providing long-term stability and investment for the operation, the workers, and the community.”

Quote from Shastri Ramnath, CEO of Exiro Nickel Company

  • “This transaction marks the launch of a new Canadian nickel company. We are pleased to partner with Vale Base Metals on this acquisition, to welcome them as a shareholder, and to collaborate with Thompson’s highly skilled workforce. We look forward to stewarding the Thompson Nickel Belt as a long-life, multi-generational asset.”

Quote from Istvan Zollei, Managing Partner, Chief Investment Officer, OMF, Orion Resource Partners

  • “Our partnership with Vale Base Metals, Exiro and Canada Growth Fund brings together experienced stakeholders and reflects our confidence in the quality of the Manitoba operations, its 60-year history and growth potential. The consortium is aligned on building on this proven foundation, strengthening operations and advancing exploration across the Thompson Nickel Belt, while supporting high-quality jobs in Manitoba. Orion has a strong track record of partnership-based investment in mining and we look forward to working with employees, local communities and Indigenous partners to ensure the Thompson Operations operate safely, sustainably and competitively for years to come.”

Quote from Yannick Beaudoin, CEO of Canada Growth Fund

  • “The Thompson Mine is a strategic asset, both for the nickel that supports critical supply chains and for the significant economic benefits it delivers to Manitoba and Canada. This transaction builds on CGF’s growing portfolio of mining investments and strengthens Canada’s position as a global leader in critical minerals. This transaction would also mark our first investment in Manitoba, and we are proud to support the province’s economic development. With this investment, CGF continues to play a key role in mobilizing private capital, by forming partnerships with top-tier industry leaders, while assuming appropriate risk to advance investment-ready opportunities.”

Quotes from Government of Canada

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne

Minister of Finance and National Revenue

  • “This investment through the Canada Growth Fund is a win for Manitoba and a win for all Canadians. As a leading global producer, our nickel industry not only plays a vital role in our national economy, but it also plays a key role in our clean-tech future. It creates high-quality jobs, supports regional development, and generates billions in exports each year. Today’s investment will help keep Canada competitive in the global clean technology supply chain while supporting economic growth here at home, for generations to come.”

The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand

Minister of Northern & Arctic Affairs

MP, Churchill-Keewatinook Aski

  • “Today’s announcement secures the future of mining at Thompson, a site with a significant endowment and great people, and which is a key part of northern Manitoba’s rich mining history. Having been part of this region for 60 years, we remain firm believers in the strategic value of nickel. This significant new investment will help unlock the operation’s full potential, providing long-term stability for our workers and the community as we build Thompson’s new future.”

The Honourable Tim Hodgson

Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

  • “This investment reflects the strong alignment between industry and our new government to secure Canada’s critical minerals future, including for nickel, which is critical for batteries, manufacturing, and electronics. By attracting new capital to Thompson, we are helping protect good jobs in Manitoba, supporting prosperity for the town of Thompson, and strengthening Canada’s position as a reliable energy and mining superpower.”

Quotes from Government of Manitoba

The Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba

  • “This investment is about keeping good jobs in Manitoba. Mining is foundational to Thompson’s economy, and securing this new investment ensures this operation can continue supporting workers, local businesses and the region for years to come.”

The Honourable Jamie Moses, Minister of Business, Mining, Trade & Job Creation

  • “This is a strong vote of confidence in northern Manitoba and in the workers and families who power the Thompson Mine Complex every single day. The partnership shows that the world sees value in Manitoba nickel and in the skilled workforce that has built Thompson into a mining hub since 1956. It also sends a clear signal that Manitoba is open for business and positions Manitoba as a reliable supplier in the global transition to clean energy.”

About Vale Base Metals (www.valebasemetals.com)

Vale Base Metals is one of the world’s largest producers of high-quality nickel and an important producer of responsibly sourced copper and cobalt. Vale Base Metals Limited is based in London, United Kingdom with its global operations centre in Toronto, Canada. The company also has operations in Newfoundland & Labrador, Ontario, Manitoba, Indonesia, Brazil, the United Kingdom and Japan. Vale Base Metals is 90 per cent owned by Vale S.A. and 10 per cent by Manara Minerals Investment Company. 

Planet Green Holdings Corp. Announces Acceptance of Compliance Plan by NYSE

NEW YORK, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Planet Green Holdings Corp. (“Planet Green”, the “Company”) (NYSE American: PLAG) announced today that the Company has received notice from NYSE Regulation regarding its continued listing status. NYSE Regulation has reviewed the Company’s January 6, 2026 plan and financial statement projections and determined to accept the plan and grant a plan period through June 8, 2027 (the “Plan Period Deadline”). NYSE Regulation staff will review the Company periodically for compliance with the initiatives outlined in the plan. If the Company is not in compliance with the continued listing standards by the Plan Period Deadline, or if the Company does not make progress consistent with the plan during the plan period, NYSE Regulation staff will initiate delisting proceedings as appropriate. The Company may appeal a staff delisting determination in accordance with Section 1010 and Part 12 of the Company Guide.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “plan”, “outlook”, and “project” and other similar expressions that indicate future events or trends or are not statements of historical matters. These statements are based on our management’s current expectations and beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions concerning future events.

Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of our control and all of which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements can be found in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available, free of charge, on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

For more information please contact:

Ms. Lili Hu
Chief Financial Officer
Phone: 347 370 2352
Email: hulili@planetgreenholdings.com 

FONDAZIONE MAIRE – IPSOS 2025 STUDY GIVES NEW INSIGHTS ON ENERGY TRANSITION GLOBALLY: INDIA LEADS ON AWARENESS (63%) AND PERCEIVED COMMITMENT TO IMPLEMENT DECARBONIZATION STRATEGIES (71%)

  • The two newly added countries to the survey, Qatar and Argentina, show different awareness: Qatar is among the leaders (67%), while Argentina has still margins to improve public perception on the role of energy transition 
  • The study has now reached over 2,300 interviews from 14 countries on 4 continents compared by awareness on energy transition and skills demand for climate goals: Qatar, KSA, UAE, India, China, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, USA, Chile, Argentina, Italy, UK, Algeria

MILAN, Feb. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The need for both soft and hard skills, to develop well-rounded professionals, is essential for advancing the energy transition. Technical expertise in renewable energies and sustainable technologies is crucial for fostering innovation and implementation, while soft skills such as problem-solving, adaptability and critical thinking are vital for navigating the dynamic challenges of energy transitions. This is what emerges from the 2025 edition of the study by Fondazione MAIRE – ETS, the foundation of Italian technology and engineering group MAIRE, carried out in cooperation with IPSOS, renown international market research company.

The study, Climate goals: winning the challenge of climate goals through the creation of skills and competences worldwide. Addendum 2: focus Qatar – Argentina, sponsored by MAIRE, adds two more countries, Qatar and Argentina, bringing the panel to over 2,300 interviews selected since 2023 across 14 countries on 4 continents, in addition to opinion leaders. Climate Goals covers a diverse group of nations: Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE for the Middle East; India, China, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkey for Asia; USA, Chile and Argentina for the Americas; Italy and UK for Europe; and Algeria in Africa.

India stands out as the leader in energy transition awareness, with 63% of the respondents reporting high familiarity. Kazakhstan ranks lowest, with only 29% very familiar with the concept, closely followed by Argentina, with 36%. The energy transition is a priority for 70% of individuals in India and Turkey, followed by 67% of Qatar, while Argentina shows the least prioritization with just 34%.

Country commitment is also rated highest in India (71%), followed by Saudi Arabia (62%), and lowest in Kazakhstan (15%) and Argentina (23%). Key challenges include raising awareness (Algeria, China), engaging private companies (Chile), and stakeholder involvement (China and India). Infrastructure development is a priority in UAE, Kazakhstan and USA, while Azerbaijan focuses on professional training and Qatar is most concerned about job losses in traditional sectors.

Kazakhstan fears transition costs will outweigh benefits, while Saudi Arabia expects short-term benefits. Education and training needs are widespread, with urgency highest in China and Chile. Technical and soft skills like problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity are globally in demand. Specific technical skills include environmental impact analysis (Azerbaijan), renewable energy knowledge (Algeria), and alternative materials expertise (Algeria, Qatar, China, USA). Skilled workforce availability is considered inadequate in Kazakhstan but appropriate in China and India.

Fabrizio Di Amato, Chairman of MAIRE and Fondazione MAIRE, commented: “The energy transition is an irreversible journey: its benefits, both environmental and economic, are globally recognized, and will outweigh or balance the costs for 13 out of 14 countries over the short term and for 100% of the panel countries over the long term. Success depends on the strategic alignment of vision, policy, innovation, and – above all – human capital. Investing in new technical and soft skills for climate goals and circularity is essential for shaping the future competitiveness of nations. Emerging countries recognize the need for increasing the availability of energy transition professionals: here is where we see the greater dynamism that is reshaping geo-economy worldwide”.

Appendix: Climate Goals’ focus on Qatar and Argentina

In Qatar, public and government awareness is high, with 95% of people familiar with the energy transition and 67% considering it a priority. The country is investing in renewable energy and climate technology, creating new jobs and emphasizing technical expertise, particularly in renewables and environmental issues. Education and training are central to Qatar’s strategy, with universities and government actively involved in preparing the workforce for rapid changes. However, there is concern about job losses in traditional sectors, making workforce adaptation a key challenge.

Focus on Argentina: Argentina shows high general awareness (97%), but only 36% are deeply familiar with energy transition concepts, and just 34% see it as a national priority. The gap between public awareness and government action is notable, with most initiatives driven by private or foreign companies. Education is valued, but 41% of Argentinians feels unprepared and recognizes the need for more training. The country faces economic constraints and limited investment in workforce development, which slows progress.

Both countries recognize the need for training and a mix of technical and soft skills, problem-solving and creativity are especially important. Ultimately, while both see education as vital, Qatar is better positioned to lead, whereas Argentina must overcome structural and economic barriers to fully benefit from the energy transition.

Climate Goals’ overall highlights:

Awareness. India stands out as the leader in energy transition awareness, with 63% of the respondents reporting high familiarity. Kazakhstan ranks lowest, with only 29%, preceded by Argentina, with 36%.

Priorities. The energy transition is a priority for 70% of individuals in India and Turkey, followed by 67% of Qatar; Argentina is last with 34%.

Opportunities. Algerians are the most convinced about cleaner environment and health benefits. India and Saudi Arabia emphasize the potential to boost women’s inclusion. China is the most enthusiastic about job creation.

Governments. Governmental priority commitment is most positively rated in India (71%), Saudi Arabia (62%), compared to Kazakhstan (15%) and Argentina (23%).

Leadership. Chinese participants feel their country is leading compared to the others and almost half of respondents place high importance on sustainable innovation of production processes, products and services, with 68% seeing technology as important for the energy transition.

Challenges. Algeria and China struggle to raise public awareness; Chile faces hurdles in private sector renewable adaptation. Ensuring the active involvement of all stakeholders is a challenge for China. Infrastructure development is a focus in the UAE, USA and Kazakhstan. Training of professionals is a key goal in Azerbaijan. Qatar shows concern about job losses in traditional sectors. Turkey, Algeria, the USA, and the UK emphasize the importance of development of energy and environmental policies.

Pros&Cons. Kazakhstan shows the highest level of concern over whether the energy transition costs will exceed benefits. Conversely, half of respondents in Saudi Arabia believe that benefits of the energy transition will outweigh the costs initially, balancing out over time.

Education. China and Chile recognize the urgency for improved training programs on energy transition, whereas Kazakhstan and Italy show less urgency, albeit still high (70% and 75% in the next 2-3 years, respectively). India reports the highest level of confidence in terms of preparation. Overall, the global consensus underscores the need for both soft and hard skills to develop well-rounded professionals, which is essential for advancing the energy transition. Kazakhstan reports a severe shortage of skilled professionals for the energy transition, with mostly positive assessments from China and India.

Skills. Many countries recognize the importance of problem solving, critical thinking and creativity and innovation as essential soft skills in this sector. Technical skill in environmental impact assessment is highly required in Azerbaijan, while knowledge of renewable energy sources is required in Algeria, and expertise in alternative renewable and recycled feedstocks is highly required in Algeria, Qatar, China and the USA.