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PHILADELPHIA, PA, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Datavault AI Inc. ("Datavault AI" or the "Company") (NASDAQ:DVLT), a leader in data monetization, credentialing, digital engagement, and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization technologies, and Coppercore Inc. ("Coppercore") today announced the closing of a definitive agreement to digitize and tokenize significant copper resources.The transaction enables Datavault AI to deploy its patented IDE®, DataScore®, and DataValue® blockchain tokenization platform to create Coppercoin™ digital tokens representing pro-rata ownership interests in the underlying in-ground resources. The initial program targets the minting of $100 million or more in Digital Copper Tokens.Coppercoin™ tokens are structured such that each token corresponds to five pounds of underlying high-grade copper resources, with pricing directly linked to the COMEX copper benchmark on a per-pound basis.This mechanism provides fractional, transparent, and liquid digital ownership while aligning investors' returns with physical copper market dynamics and future production upside. The initial $100 million program is scheduled for launch by the end of the second calendar quarter of this year, making tokenized copper accessible to global investors around the clock.Coppercoin™ introduces a new digital asset class that delivers market efficiencies and opportunities, including upgrade of processes and the future production of copper industrial products such as Cu concentrate, Cu cement, and Cu refined copper ("Cathodes").Copper is the foundational metal powering the global energy transition, AI infrastructure, electrification, renewable energy systems, and decarbonization. Global copper demand is projected to surge dramatically - 24% by 2035 (Wood Mackenzie) and up to 50% by 2040 (S&P Global), driven by AI data centers, electrification, and global energy expansion, while supply constraints risk significant deficits. Traditional copper markets (primarily trade on the London Metal Exchange (LME) and Commodities Exchange Inc. (COMEX) remain complex and less accessible for many investors worldwide. Coppercoin™ changes this by offering transparent, fractional, and liquid digital ownership - tradeable 24/7 - providing global investors an easy, compliant way to participate in the copper market opportunity.Nathaniel T. Bradley, CEO of Datavault AI, stated: "Today's agreement with Coppercore represents a major milestone in our global RWA tokenization strategy. By tokenizing copper resources, we are delivering institutional-grade, verifiable, and liquid digital ownership to investors while directly supporting the critical minerals supply chain that powers AI, electrification, and the energy transition. This partnership validates our patented platform as the benchmark infrastructure for compliant tokenization of strategic natural resources."Antonio Treminio, CEO of Coppercore Inc., added: "Partnering with Datavault AI allows Coppercore, as an exploration, development, and production-oriented copper mining company, to accelerate value creation from our high-grade copper and silver assets through a modern blockchain structure. Coppercoin™ provides a compliant, 24/7 digital pathway for investors worldwide to own and trade copper exposure, capturing production upside as we advance toward commercial output."The tokenized assets will leverage Datavault AI's proprietary smart-contract technology for verifiable ownership, AI-driven valuation, and future revenue participation rights tied to commercial copper production. This transaction further solidifies Datavault AI's leadership in tokenizing strategic natural resources and establishes Coppercoin™ as the benchmark for compliant, liquid digital mineral assets.About Datavault AI Inc.Datavault AI™ (NASDAQ:DVLT) is a pioneer in AI-driven data experiences, valuation, and monetization of assets in the Web 3.0 environment. The Company's cloud-based platform delivers comprehensive solutions across its Acoustic Sciences and Data Sciences divisions.Datavault AI's Acoustic Sciences division features WiSA®, ADIO®, and Sumerian® patented technologies for spatial and multichannel wireless, high-definition sound transmission, including intellectual property covering audio timing, synchronization, and multi-channel interference cancellation.The Data Science Division harnesses Web 3.0 and high-performance computing to enable experiential data perception, valuation, and secure monetization. The platform serves multiple industries, including sports & entertainment, events & venues, biotech, education, fintech, real estate, healthcare, energy, and more.The Information Data Exchange® (IDE®) enables Digital Twins and licensing of name, image, and likeness by securely attaching physical real-world objects to immutable metadata, fostering responsible AI with integrity. Datavault AI's technology suite is fully customizable and includes AI and machine learning automation, third-party integration, detailed analytics, marketing automation, and advertising monitoring.The Company is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Learn more at https://datavaultsite.com.About Coppercore Inc.Coppercore Inc. is an exploration, development, and production-oriented copper mining company focused on the advancement of high-grade copper and silver resources toward commercial production. www.coppercore.coForward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains "forward-looking statements" (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, and other securities laws) about Datavault AI Inc. ("Datavault AI," the "Company," "us," "our," or "we") and our industry that involve risks and uncertainties. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words, such as "may," "might," "will," "shall," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "could," "intends," "target," "projects," "contemplates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," "goal," "objective," "seeks," "likely" or "continue" or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. The absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding future events, the expected benefits of the partnership with Coppercore, anticipated deployment of the Company's proprietary IDE®, DataScore®, DataValue®, and Data Vault® platforms to digitize ownership interests in Coppercore's copper-silver mineral resources through blockchain-based tokenization, and expected operational, technical, and commercial outcomes of the Company's commercial strategy, and the projected direction and market impacts of regulatory changes with respect to digital assets, are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company and its management, are inherently uncertain.Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these and other forward-looking statements contained herein.Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the following: changes in market demand for secure high-performance data processing; the performance, timing, or success of the deployment of the Company's proprietary IDE®, DataScore®, DataValue®, and Data Vault® platforms to digitize ownership interests in Coppercore's copper-silver mineral resources through blockchain-based tokenization; changes in market demand for Datavault AI's services and products; changes in economic, market, or regulatory conditions; risks relating to evolving regulatory frameworks applicable to tokenized assets; risks associated with technological development and integration; and other risks and uncertainties as more fully described in Datavault AI's filings with the SEC, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 and other filings that Datavault AI makes from time to time with the SEC, which are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and could cause actual results to vary from expectations.The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made. Datavault AI undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.Datavault AI may not actually achieve the plans, intentions, or expectations disclosed in its forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Datavault AI's forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures, or investments it may make.For more information, visit https://datavaultsite.com or contact investor relations.Sources:1. Wood Mackenzie, "High-Wire Act: Is Soaring Copper Demand an Obstacle to Future Growth?" (November 2025). Projects global copper demand to surge 24% by 2035, rising to 42.7 Mtpa, driven by data centers, electrification, defense, and emerging markets. woodmac.com2. S&P Global, "Copper in the Age of AI: The Challenges of Electrification" (January 8, 2026). Projects copper demand to reach 42 million metric tons by 2040 - a 50% increase from current levels - driven by AI, data centers, EVs, and global electrification, with a potential 10 million metric ton supply shortfall. spglobal.comMedia Contacts:Alan WallaceHead of Public Relationsmarketing@dvlt.aiInvestor ContactEdward BargerVP, Investor Relationsir@dvlt.aiebarger@dvlt.aiSOURCE: Datavault AI Inc Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Japan, Mar 31, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) today announced the establishment of PathAhead Co., Ltd. (PathAhead), a startup business venture originated from IGNITION, Honda’s new business creation program.PathAhead has developed Rising Sand, the world’s first artificial aggregate made from desert sand. Going forward, the company will work to establish mass-production technology and conduct demonstration testing to verify its workability and durability in asphalt road construction. After these steps, the company aims to begin mass production of Rising Sand at its own production plant, scheduled to be built in Republic of Kenya in 2028, and establish a system and capability to ensure stable supply to construction companies in Africa.Rising Sand, artificial aggregate developed by PathAheadOfficial website of PathAhead: URL:https://pathahead.jp/ (Japanese)https://pathahead.jp/en (English)In recent years, African countries have seen a rapid expansion of their economies in line with rapid population growth. At the same time, insufficient construction and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads has been a major constraint on economic growth. Currently, the percentage of paved roads in the African region remains low, at approximately 20%*2, and the deterioration of existing paved roads is progressing, which is resulting in higher logistics costs and economic losses.Furthermore, aggregates used for road paving are made of relatively inexpensive natural resources such as sand and crushed stone, which tend to have variability in strength depending on where they were mined and the geological layers, making it difficult to secure consistent level of quality required for paving materials.PathAhead recognized the potential of desert sand as a locally available resource and developed an artificial aggregate, Rising Sand, that achieves both high cost efficiency and durability. Rising Sand is produced using PathAhead’s original technology to granulate fine, non-uniform desert sand grains into more uniform, high-hardness artificial aggregate, which is suitable for a wide range of applications, including road paving, concrete, and materials for the base course/sub-base of roads.As the first step toward commercialization, PathAhead will conduct demonstration testing of Rising Sand for road paving applications over a period of approximately three years, first in Kenya starting in 2027, then in Tanzania, followed by South Africa. The company will verify workability, durability, and the consistency of quality while considering local climate and traffic conditions in each country, aiming to establish specifications that satisfy the requirements for road pavement materials for mass production.Based on the results of the demonstration testing, PathAhead will start mass-production of Rising Sand at a production plant scheduled to be constructed in Kenya in 2028, then in Tanzania, followed by South Africa, with the goal of building a stable supply system through local sourcing and local production.Key features of the Rising SandRising Sand is an artificial aggregate produced by granulating the round grains of fine desert sand with a diameter of approximately 100 micrometers (μm)*3 into larger granulated sand clusters with a diameter of several ten millimeters (mm), using PathAhead’s original, patent-pending granulation technology. This technology reduces variations in the size and shape of sand clusters, thereby increasing its strength as aggregate.While roads constructed with conventional natural aggregates typically have a service life of about 10 years, roads constructed with the Rising Sand are expected to achieve a service life of more than 20 years*4, which will reduce the frequency of road repairs and is estimated to reduced lifecycle cost by approximately 60%*4 compared to that of conventional roads using natural aggregates. Furthermore, by using locally available resources such as desert sand and additives, PathAhead will strive to offer Rising Sand at a price comparable to that of natural aggregates.As the depletion of natural resources, such as sand and crushed stone extracted from mountains and rivers, is becoming a serious global issue, Rising Sand can be used as a sustainable alternative that fulfills a wide range of construction needs, beyond applications for road pavements, including applications for concrete and materials for the base course/sub-base of roads.Image of granulating desert sand to produce Rising SandKey applications of Rising Sand*1 Granular materials used as a component in construction mixtures, such as pavement material.*2 PathAhead estimate based on “The World Factbook” published by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).*3 1μm = 1/1000 of a mm.*4 Based on research by PathAhead.Comments by Masayuki Iga, Representative Director & CEO of PathAhead Co., Ltd.“At Honda, I worked on research and development of automotive materials and fundamental research on mobility-related technologies, based on what our customers expect of our finished vehicles. I established PathAhead based on my desire to leverage technologies and insights I amassed through such experience to swiftly and directly address challenges facing our society. In Africa, the low durability of roads significantly constrains the mobility of people, logistics, and economic activities. Roads are more than mere infrastructure: they connect people, expand access to education, healthcare, and industry for more people, and form the foundation that supports the potential of the region. PathAhead is committed to more than just building roads: by providing highly durable materials, we take on a challenge to create sustainable road networks. With our end-to-end commitment — from fundamental research to locally rooted real-world implementation — we will leverage the power of our technology and enable people and society to unleash their limitless potential, starting from the ‘roads’ they use.”  Comments by Keiji Otsu, President and Representative Director of Honda R&D Co., Ltd.“Each and every Honda associate pursues their dreams and continues to take on challenges with strong conviction in order to offer our customers around the world the ‘joy and freedom of mobility’ through our mobility products and services. It is encouraging to see that the technologies and ideas Mr. Iga developed through his experience in research on mobility-related materials have led to a new idea that contributes to the infrastructure and is beginning to take shape as a solution to a societal challenge. Through our IGNITION program, Honda will offer ongoing support for this PathAhead initiative, while also accelerating co-creation with other internal and external partners and continuing to create new value and strive to address more societal issues.”About the IGNITION new business creation programThe IGNITION is a new business creation program of Honda, designed to discover the original ideas, technologies and designs of Honda associates and apply them to contribute to solving societal issues and creating new value for customers and society. The program started in 2017 as an initiative to encourage Honda associates to create new business within Honda. In 2020, the program added an option for qualified associates to start their own business ventures to realize earlier possible real-world implementation of their technologies. Furthermore, in 2023, by expanding the eligibility for participation to individuals and businesses outside Honda, the IGNITION was further advanced into a program under which participants strive to achieve innovative value creation by combining the ideas of people outside the company with the technologies and expertise of Honda. Key Features of IGNITION system (for Honda associates)- All full-time Honda associates who work for Honda operations in Japan are eligible to submit proposals regardless of their length of employment and assigned division. - Proposals selected in the first-round evaluation will receive approximately six months of business development support. During this period, a taskforce team consisting of internal specialists will be formed to support each proposer.- Ideas that pass the second-round evaluation will be commercialized through a startup venture or within the company.- For startups, the possibility of investment from Honda will be considered in a meeting of the Corporate Venturing Council held after the second-round evaluation.- External investors provide advice to each proposer throughout the evaluation process.- In order to ensure independence of the startup, the ratio of capital contribution by Honda will be limited to no more than 20%. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

TOKYO, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The TANAKA Memorial Foundation’s Representative Director, Hideya Okamoto, announced the recipients of the FY2025 Precious Metals Research Grants.Following a rigorous screening process, this year’s Ichiro Tanaka Awards, for 3 million yen each, were presented to Professor Takanori Iwasaki of Kyushu University and Professor Toshinori Fujie of Institute of Science Tokyo. In addition, four research projects received the Innovative Precious Metals Award, and five KIRAMEKI Awards were presented.The TANAKA Memorial Foundation undertakes programs designed to foster developments in new precious metal fields while contributing to the advancement of science, technology, and socioeconomics for the overall enrichment of society. The research grant program was launched in FY1999 and has continued each year since with the goal of supporting the various challenges of the “new world opened up by precious metals.” With “Forging a better tomorrow with ‘Hirameki’ and ‘Kirameki’” adopted as the catchphrase, applications were invited for research and development themes that contribute toward the continued creation of a better future using the creativity of researchers and the potential of precious metals. A total of 244 applications were received for this year, the program’s 27th year, and a total of 27 research grants for a combined total of 19.8 million yen were awarded.The names of the recipients of the Ichiro Tanaka Award, their research, and the reasons for their selection are below.Ichiro Tanaka AwardProfessor Takanori Iwasaki of Kyushu UniversityChemical Recycling of Recalcitrant Polymer Materials Using Hydrogen TransportThis research seeks to address the degradation of polyurethane using a proprietary precious metal complex catalyst. It has been demonstrated that polyurethane can be decomposed by hydrogen gas. As the development of chemical recycling methods for polyurethane used in cushioning materials such as automotive seats and mattresses is essential for promoting the reuse of waste plastics, it was highly rated as research and development that makes a significant contribution to the realization of an environmentally sustainable society.Ichiro Tanaka AwardProfessor Toshinori Fujie of Institute of Science TokyoDevelopment of Biodegradable Nanosheet Electrodes Composed of Inkjet-Printed Gold Wires and Their Application to Plant Health Measurement SystemsThis research measures changes in the surface potential of plant leaves in real time by formation of an array of gold electrodes on a polymer ultrathin film substrate. By investigating materials with minimal impact on living organisms, it is expected that raw data can be obtained from plants. Furthermore, the research was highly rated for its potential to reveal not only changes in bio-surface potential in plants but also changes in various conditions in animals.Four Innovative Precious Metals Awards, 16 HIRAMEKI Awards, and five KIRAMEKI Awards were also granted. The recipients and an overview of the Precious Metals Research Grants are indicated below. Applications for the FY2026 research grants are scheduled to open in the fall.Overview of the 2025 Precious Metals Research Grants[Conditions]New research and development themes—either using precious metals or that can be applied to precious metals—that contribute to the creation of a sustainable future, with research content that falls under any of the following.- New technology related to precious metals (new materials, processing methods, process development, etc.)- Research that brings about innovative evolution in product development (new functions, process development, computational science, etc.)- Research and development of new products using precious metals* Precious metal refers to eight elements of platinum, gold, silver, palladium, rhodium, iridium, ruthenium and osmium.* If development is conducted jointly (or planned to be) with other material manufacturers, please indicate so.* Products that have already been commercialized, put to practical use, or that are planned are not eligible.[Grant Amounts] (Maximum amounts from a grant pool of 20 million yen)- Umekichi Tanaka Award: 10,000,000 yen- Ichiro Tanaka Award: 3,000,000 yen- Innovative Precious Metals Award: 1,000,000 yen- HIRAMEKI Award: 300,000 yen- KIRAMEKI Award: 1,000,000 yen* The grant amount is treated as a scholarship donation.* Awards may not be granted in some cases.[Eligible Candidates]- Personnel who work for educational institutions in Japan (universities, graduate schools, or technical colleges) or public and related research institutions may participate.- As long as the applicant is affiliated with a research institution in Japan, the base of activity can be in Japan or overseas.- KIRAMEKI Awards are for researchers under the age of 37 as of April 1, 2025.[Application Period]- 9 am, September 1, 2025 (Mon) - 5 pm, November 28, 2025 (Fri)[Inquiries Concerning the Research Grant Program]Precious Metals Research Grants OfficeGlobal Marketing / R&D Supervisory Department, TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0025E-mail: joseikin@ml.tanaka.co.jpTANAKA Memorial Foundation website: https://tanaka-foundation.or.jpTANAKA Memorial FoundationOrganization Name: TANAKA Memorial FoundationAddress: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Hideya Okamoto (Special Advisor, TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.)Incorporated: 2015Purpose of Business: To provide grants for research related to precious metals to contribute to the development and cultivation of new fields for precious metals, and to the development of science, technology, and the social economy.Areas of Business:- Provision of grants for scientific and technological research related to precious metals. - Recognition of excellent analysis of precious metals and holding of seminars and other events.TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.Headquarters: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoRepresentative: Koichiro Tanaka, CEOFounded: 1885Incorporated: 1918Capital: 500 million yenEmployees: 2,862 (Including overseas subsidiaries) (December 31, 2025)Sales: 419,177,145,000 yen (FY2025)Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.URL: https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com(TANAKA Industrial Precious Metal Materials Portal)Press InquiriesTANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd.https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/Press Release: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20260331_EN.pdf Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

DALLAS,TX Mar 31, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Hitachi Digital Services today announced it is strengthening its operational technology (OT) and informational technology (IT) integration via the use of a comprehensive Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) platform. The technological advancement enables Hitachi to accelerate the transformation of discrete manufacturing sites into resilient, sustainable smart factories. Further, the MOM platform is slated to expand Hitachi’s HMAX Industry solutions portfolio, serving as a strong foundation for industrial AI–driven modernization.Built on an open, modular integration architecture, the MOM platform ensures interoperability with diverse product lifecycle management and OT systems. This capability enables wider application across a broad range of asset-heavy sectors such as Energy, High Tech, Manufacturing, and Transportation. The advanced MOM platform also delivers:A continuous digital thread enabling real‑time, end‑to‑end traceability from design through to manufacturing and quality management.Data-driven decision making by analyzing field data to optimize quality, cost, and delivery (QCD).Scalable workflows enabling agile production systems that respond instantly to fluctuations in market and customer demand.Refined across 100+ mission-critical manufacturing sites, Hitachi’s proven MOM platform is now intended to power numerous Hitachi Group factories through a “Customer Zero” approach. Its use is expected to enhance productivity through human-machine collaboration, accelerating the transition to sustainable operations.The resulting value-creation cycle will support Hitachi’s efforts to evolve the MOM platform into an even more powerful product within HMAX by Hitachi—a suite of next-generation solutions that brings the power of AI to social infrastructure by harnessing vast data from physical and digital assets.“The Hitachi Group's greatest strength lies in creating value by accelerating synergies with our extensive OT domains, including rail, energy, and industry. As an integrator implementing OT and IT, Hitachi Digital Services has driven social innovation through cloud, data, and IoT services. By adding a globally proven MOM to our capabilities, we will advance the digital transformation of our own OT sites through a Customer Zero approach. We are confident that the expertise and knowhow gained from this will strengthen our HMAX Industry portfolio and accelerate its deployment across the industrial sector,” said Jun Abe, Executive Vice President of Hitachi, Ltd., General Manager of the Digital Systems & Services Division and Chairman of the Board at Hitachi Digital Services.“Industry 5.0 challenges such as scalability, supply chain integration, and technology adoption will only be solved through smarter automation and more agile production environments,” said Roger Lvin, CEO of Hitachi Digital Services. “Understanding this fully, we’re introducing advanced MOM capabilities to an already formidable tech portfolio. The resulting physical AI solutions will serve as today’s most disruptive cross-industry smart manufacturing and asset operations systems—laying the foundation for digital manufacturing excellence while reinforcing Hitachi’s capabilities for mission‑critical manufacturing operations.”Trademark NoticeAll trademarks and product names are the property of their respective owners.About Hitachi Digital ServicesHitachi Digital Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., is a global systems integrator powering mission-critical platforms with people and technology. We help enterprises build, integrate, and run physical and digital systems with tailored solutions in cloud, data, IoT, and ERP modernization, underpinned by advanced AI. By combining Information Technology and Operational Technology (ITxOT), we drive efficiency, innovation, and growth across industries. With over 110 years of Hitachi Group’s engineering and technology leadership, Hitachi Digital Services is powering smarter platforms for a safer, more sustainable future. For more information on Hitachi Digital Services, please visit the company’s website at www.hitachids.com.About Hitachi, Ltd.Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing, and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors – Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility, and Connective Industries – and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide. Visit us at www.hitachi.com. Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Amid ongoing global trade and economic uncertainties, Hong Kong exporters have adopted a more cautious stance in the first quarter of 2026, despite a strong export performance in the last few months, according to new research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The HKTDC 1Q26 Export Confidence Index, released today, showed moderate declines for two key indicators, the Current Performance Index and the Expectation Index. For 1Q26, the Current Performance Index stood at 46.5. Meanwhile, the Expectation Index returned a figure of 46.9, reflecting caution among survey respondents in light of the uncertain external environment.Trade value expectations, however, remained relatively steady. The Trade Value Sub-Index stayed near the neutral threshold, with the Current reading at 50.9 and the Expectation reading at 49.1. This suggests that unit prices are expected to hold firm in the next few months. Meanwhile, both the Current and Expected Inventory Sub-Index rose above 60, indicating inventory rundown amid growing shipments in the early months of the year.Market outlook: Cautious optimismCommenting on the findings, HKTDC Director of Research, Bruce Pang, said: “The outlook for many of Hong Kong’s major markets has moderated somewhat, including the ASEAN bloc and the Chinese Mainland, largely on account of ongoing geopolitical developments. In the longer term, however, fundamental demand – especially for electronics and other consumer sectors – remains resilient. Hong Kong’s trade prospects should stay positive, yet remain cautious, pending the further easing of global geopolitical conflicts.”Sector performance: Jewellery and clothing outperformDespite the overall softening, several key sectors outperformed the overall Index. Most notably, the jewellery sector rallied impressively, supported by robust sales and sizeable new orders. The jewellery sector’s Current reading climbed to 57.1 (up 5.9), while its Expectation reading rose to 56.0 (up 1.1). The clothing sector also showed considerable improvement, with its Current Index rising to 52.1 (up 6.1) and its Expectation Index increasing by 9.2 points to 53.4. However, sentiment among electronics exporters weakened, with a Current reading of 44.9 and an Expectation reading of 45.6, signalling disruptions over the Chinese New Year period.Cost pressures showed signs of stabilising. Although still in negative territory, the Cost Sub-Index improved significantly, with the Current reading rising 15.2 points to 38.1 and its Expectation reading up by 8.5 points to 41.3. This indicates potential sustained relief from cost pressures, despite recent surges in oil and energy prices triggered by developments in the Middle East. The impact of the recent conflict in the region was not factored into this survey as the fieldwork was carried out in January and February.E-commerce as a growing sales channelAs part of the same survey, HKTDC Research also conducted a thematic assessment of Hong Kong exporters’ cross-border e-commerce business. The findings showed that 46% of respondents were already engaged in cross-border e-commerce, while a further 20% plan to enter the sector within the coming year. Among companies already engaged in cross-border e-commerce, the Chinese Mainland ranked as the leading e-commerce sales destination (24%), followed by the EU27 & UK (17%) and Canada & the US (15%), while the ASEAN bloc (14%) continued to emerge as a promising market with notable growth potential.Kenneth Lee, HKTDC Section Head of Special Project & Business Advisory, added: “Market diversification remains a key strategy for Hong Kong traders to mitigate risks. At the same time, more companies are leveraging e-commerce channels to boost sales and enhance business sustainability amid an uncertain external environment.”ReferencesHKTDC Export Confidence Index 1Q26: Hong Kong Exporters Stay Cautious Amid Uncertaintieshttps://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MjI4MDE5MDc3OQHKTDC Research website: https://research.hktdc.com/en/Photo download: https://bit.ly/4s5kh7oHKTDC Director of Research Bruce Pang (right) and Section Head of Special Project & Business Advisory Kenneth Lee (left), announced the HKTDC Export Confidence Index for 2026’s first quarter at a press conference todayHKTDC Director of Research Bruce PangHKTDC Section Head of Special Project & Business Advisory Kenneth LeeMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications and Public Affairs Department:Johnny TsuiTel: (852) 2584 4395Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.orgAgnes WatTel: (852) 2584 4554Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

KAWASAKI, Japan, Mar 31, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited today announced that it has signed a comprehensive industry-academia collaboration agreement with Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences (OUHS) to create social value and develop human resources through digital transformation (DX) by leveraging cutting-edge technology in the sports performance field. Based on this agreement, both parties will begin joint discussions on fostering top athletes in various sports, including gymnastics, and exploring other applications using skeleton recognition AI.OUHS aims to further enhance its authentic education, research, and social contribution as outlined in its OUHS Vision 2031. To achieve this, the university has launched the DX/AX (AI Transformation) Promotion Project to advance the utilization of digital technology and artificial intelligence. Through education, research, and social contribution, OUHS seeks to contribute to societal change and new value creation based on sports.As part of this initiative, Fujitsu's skeleton recognition AI, which precisely and instantly digitizes human movement in 3D, developed through its gymnastics judging support system and offered via AI Technologies and Solutions within Uvance, has been adopted for OUHS's gymnastics club as an AI training system compliant with international judging standards.Traditionally, the evaluation of sports performance and techniques, including gymnastics, has heavily relied on the experience and subjectivity of athletes and coaches. By utilizing skeleton recognition AI, this evaluation will be digitized. Quantifiable metrics for each sport will be defined, and athletes' movements will be digitized in real-time, thereby creating data-driven training methods and supporting the improvement of athletic ability and the development of top-level athletes.Furthermore, by applying this technology in sports science and biomechanics lectures at OUHS, the aim is to cultivate human resources capable of utilizing and researching this technology.Future PlansFujitsu will collaborate with OUHS to explore initiatives for advancing virtual sports in addition to real sports. By utilizing skeleton recognition AI in virtual sports research, the aim is to create opportunities for young people and seniors who are hesitant about exercise to easily and safely experience sports. By visualizing the effects of physical ability improvement through virtual sports using skeleton recognition AI and allowing participants to experience a sense of growth, this initiative will encourage exercise habits, expand the sports population, and create social value.Additionally, by combining OUHS's regional collaboration programs with Fujitsu's skeleton recognition AI and the diverse cutting-edge AI technologies held by Uvance Partner, Fujitsu will contribute to solving regional issues such as promoting health among the elderly and fostering exercise habits in children through sports.Under Uvance, Fujitsu’s business mode which addresses societal challenges, Fujitsu will collaborate with its Uvance Partner, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, to leverage data and AI to advance talent development and enhance sports performance, thereby promoting the well-being of people.Powered by Uvance / About Uvance PartnerTo achieve the sustainable world envisioned by Uvance, the presence of partners who bring diverse knowledge and technologies to co-create the future is essential. These Uvance Partners integrate Uvance offerings and are responsible for developing and providing innovative Powered by Uvance products that leverage cutting-edge technologies and expertise, as well as promoting their adoption within society and organizations. Fujitsu will grow together with Uvance Partners, expanding business and working to solve social issues.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 113,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: global.fujitsuPress ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

MACAU, HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE, Stock Code: 8400.HK), a Hong Kong-listed Macau company, together with Cartamundi, a global playing card manufacturing company from Belgium, signed a strategic cooperation agreement at the Macau International Environmental Cooperation Forum & Exhibition (MIECF) on March 27, 2026. The agreement lays the foundation for introducing advanced sustainable production technologies into Macau, marking the first step in BEE(R)’s journey under the banner “Global Brand - Made in Macau.”The strategic cooperation agreement for the “International Green Production Technology Introduction to Macau” was signed by Herman Ng, Executive Director and CEO of APE, and Jason Pearce, Managing Director of Cartamundi APAC. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Elaine Wong, Acting Chairperson of the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), Macao SAR; Yang Quanzhou, Deputy Director-General of the Economic Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Hoi Chi Leong, Deputy Director of the Environmental Protection Bureau, Macao; Chan Long Seng, Deputy Supervisor of the Macao Chamber of Commerce; alongside Geoffroy de Myttenaere, CFO of Cartamundi Group, and Tony Chan, Executive Director and CFO of APE. This milestone signals a forward-looking partnership that will align international expertise with Macau’s vision for green innovation and economic diversification.Herman Ng, Executive Director and CEO of APE, commented: “We are proud to welcome Cartamundi into Macau through this cooperation. This collaboration not only offers our customers a more diversified product range, but also brings internationally renowned brands and advanced production technologies to Macau.”Jason Pearce, Managing Director of Cartamundi APAC, added: “Macau’s unique position as a gateway to Asia makes it the ideal platform for our next steps. Today’s agreement is only the beginning of a journey that will bring global innovation closer to Macau.”A Prelude to InnovationWhile today’s signing focuses on the strategic framework, the partners hinted at further developments to be unveiled in the coming months. This cooperation represents more than a business alliance — it is a commitment to shaping Macau’s role in global sustainability and high-tech industries.Strategic Cooperation Highlights- Sustainable Technology, Made in Macau: Agreement sets the stage for sustainable, high-efficiency production.- Driving Diversification: Integrating High-Tech and Green Innovation under Macau’s “One Center, One Platform, One Base” Vision.- Gateway to Global Markets: Positions Macau as a hub linking Europe, Portuguese speaking countries, and Asia.- Commitment to Responsibility: A shared pledge to innovation and a greener future.About Asia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings LimitedAsia Pioneer Entertainment Holdings Limited (APE), established in 2006 and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 8400.HK), is a leading supplier of electronic gaming equipment and table solutions to casinos in Macau and across Asia. Beyond its core gaming business, APE is actively expanding into smart vending solutions in Macau, further strengthening its contribution to the region’s innovation economy.Website: apemacau.comAbout CartamundiCartamundi Asia Pacific is part of Cartamundi Group, a seventh-generation family-owned company headquartered in Belgium. With a global network of 12 close to market manufacturing facilities, design centers, and sales offices across four continents, Cartamundi partners with leading Integrated Resorts worldwide to deliver premium gaming solutions. Its strategy focuses on sustainable, profitable growth, ensuring we preserve our planet and our legacy for generations to come.Website: cartamundi.comMedia ContactVictoria ManPublic Relations, Cartamundi & Asia Pioneer EntertainmentTel/Whatsapp/WeChat: +853 63952307Left: Herman Ng, Executive Director and CEO of APERight: Jason Pearce, Managing Director of Cartamundi APAC Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited ("AEON Credit" or the "Group"; Stock Code: 00900) today announced its annual results for the year ended 28th February 2026 ("FY2025/26" or the "Reporting Year").During the Reporting Year, revenue of the Group increased by 3.8% year-on-year to HK$1,825.4 million (FY2024/25 or the “Previous Year”: HK$1,759.3 million), as domestic consumption gradually recovered and effective marketing initiatives were implemented to boost sales. Meanwhile, with cost-to-income ratio decreasing to 44.5% (FY2024/25: 46.6%), operating profit before impairment losses and impairment allowances rose 8.7% to HK$957.7 million (FY2024/25: HK$881.2 million). Owing to the Group’s effective portfolio management mechanism, impairment losses and impairment allowances decreased by 5.5% during the Reporting Year. Consequently, profit for the year was up 16.9% to HK$468.2 million (FY2024/25: HK$400.5 million).The Board has recommended a final dividend of 33.0 HK cents per share (FY2024/25: 25.0 HK cents per share), bringing the total dividend for FY2025/26 to 58.0 HK cents per share, representing a dividend payout ratio of 51.9%.In response to the uncertain market conditions, the Group adopted a prudent portfolio management strategy in FY2025/26, which involved balancing customer base expansion with credit risk mitigation. The Group recorded steady overall sales growth of 7.7% compared with Previous Year, driven mainly by successful targeted marketing programmes and effective tele-marketing activities. Gross advances and receivables balance increased by 8.0% to HK$7,912.7 million as at 28th February 2026. Effective credit risk monitoring further improved asset quality, with the percentage of doubtful (“Stage 2”) and loss (“Stage 3”) receivables to gross advances and receivables decreased to 3.9% as at 28th February 2026 from 4.2% as at 28th February 2025.In terms of operational digitalisation and card security, the Group continued to enhance its “AEON HK” mobile application (“Mobile App”), including the introduction of in-app authentication for e-commerce transactions and a card-on/off security feature. The Group also integrated loan application functions from various channels, including the Mobile App, to offering customers a more seamless and secure experience.  In addition, the Group commenced the “One AEON Point” project, an integrated loyalty platform designed to unify reward points to customers, initially across AEON’s various businesses. Regarding information technology, the Group completed the Internet Protocol Contact Center (“IPCC”) project to enhance its call centre operations.Meanwhile, the Group made significant progress in its sustainability initiatives, including launching its first “AEON Green Personal Loan” and securing a HK$300 million sustainability-linked syndicated bank loan. The Group also obtained its first Corporate Sustainability Assessment (“CSA”) score from S&P Global ESG Rating, which placed the Group ahead of over 80% of its global peers.Looking ahead to 2026, the Group will prioritise sales and quality receivables growth through local and online spending, with a key strategic focus being the launch and implementation of the “One AEON Point” platform. Serving as the cornerstone of the “AEON EcoZone”, “One AEON Point” will drive cross-business synergy, elevate the value proposition of the Group’s financial services with retail partners, and attract a larger customer base. Alongside customer-focused initiatives, the Group will strengthen Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) adoption across the entire customer journey to deliver more seamless, efficient and personalised services. The Group will further streamline its credit assessment processes by shortening electronic Know-Your-Customer (“eKYC”) screening time and embedding additional application scoring for automated credit card and personal loan approvals. At the same time, digital communication tools such as WhatsApp will be adopted to enhance customer interaction. In parallel, the Group will revamp its customer service operations by centralising the management and tracking of customer enquiries across all channels, thereby enabling a faster response to meet customer expectations.Mr. Wei Aiguo, Managing Director of AEON Credit, said, "Throughout FY2025/26, we remained dedicated to delivering exceptional credit services and expanding our customer base through innovative and tailored financial solutions. We are encouraged by our ability to drive growth and deliver a robust financial performance despite lingering market uncertainties. Guided by our purpose of ‘bringing finance closer to everyone’, we aim to enhance customers’ everyday experiences by offering peace of mind and building long-term trust throughout their financial journey. We will continue to maintain our asset quality, maximise returns and create shared values for the community, in line with our position as a trusted financial partner.”About AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited (Stock Code: 00900)AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited, a subsidiary of AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd. (TSE: 8570) and a member of the AEON Group, was set up in 1987 and listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in 1995. The Group is principally engaged in the finance business, which includes the issuance of credit cards, personal loan financing, card payment processing services and insurance intermediary business in Hong Kong, and microfinance business in Mainland China.For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.aeon.com.hk. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

TOKYO and TAIPEI, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - JCB Co., Ltd., the only international payment brand originating from Japan, together with its international operations subsidiary, JCB International Co., Ltd. (collectively, “JCB”), today announced that JCB-branded credit cards issued by Union Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPac will, for the first time outside Japan, support JCB Contactless payments via Google Pay, starting from March 31, 2026.About Google PayGoogle Pay is a contactless mobile payment service available on Android™ smartphones and other compatible devices. By adding credit cards or other payment methods, users can make payments conveniently using their smartphones and other devices. With built-in authentication, transaction encryption, and fraud protection, Google Pay helps keep your money and personal information safe.> Learn more about Google Pay (URL)Google Pay requires the Google Wallet app to be downloaded.Android, Google Pay, and Google Wallet are trademarks of Google LLC.About JCB Contactless PaymentsJCB Contactless is a contactless payment solution that enables cardmembers to complete payments simply by tapping their JCB Contactless-enabled cards, or smartphones with JCB Cards registered, on compatible contactless terminals. JCB Contactless can be used at a wide range of merchants and public transportation systems in Japan and overseas.For payments above a certain amount, cardmembers may be required to verify their identity by providing a signature or by inserting the card and entering a PIN, depending on the transaction conditions.> Learn more about JCB ContactlessAbout Union Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPacUnion Bank of Taiwan and Bank SinoPac provide comprehensive financial services in Taiwan, including the issuance of credit and debit cards.JCB has partnered with Union Bank of Taiwan since 2000 and with Bank SinoPac since 1998 to issue JCB-branded credit cards, and both banks have issued a substantial number of JCB Cards in the Taiwanese market.About JCBJCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 71 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 175 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/ContactAnna TakedaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@info.jcb.co.jp Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com