Paramount Pictures/Bad Robot/Kobal/Shutterstock10 Cloverfield Lane operates with a curious form of doublethink. Nearly the entire film unfolds within a bunker, where protagonist Michelle (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) is informed by Howard (John Goodman)—the bunker’s owner—that the outside world has been destroyed. She only recalls being in a car accident, so part of the film’s tension stems from her suspicion that this paranoid, delusional older man is deceiving her. Yet we viewers know something Michelle doesn’t: she’s in a Cloverfield film, which means alien-related chaos is afoot.This gap between our knowledge and Michelle’s drives much of 10 Cloverfield Lane’s plot, and a decade later, it stands out as an unexplored path. Weeks after its theatrical release, Batman squared off against Superman and Iron Man clashed with Captain America. A few years later, The Cloverfield Paradox arrived on Netflix—so confusing that it ended the franchise entirely. But for a short time, 10 Cloverfield Lane appeared to offer a blueprint for working within an established franchise without producing what amounts to a very costly TV episode.10 Cloverfield Lane shares virtually no overlap with the original Cloverfield, released eight years prior. It has a fresh cast and is set in a completely new location. Most importantly, it was a drastically different type of film. The original Cloverfield is a found-footage horror movie that revels in the events occurring just out of frame. 10 Cloverfield Lane, by contrast, is a taut thriller set nearly entirely in one spot, where three characters probe each other and attempt to coexist. The only real commonality between the two is their name—a familiar anchor for audiences.The Cloverfield franchise—though still in its infancy—was built on experimentation, the notion that a franchise didn’t need to be a single type of story, just set in a single universe. That idea collapsed when Paradox showed the model only works if the films are actually good—but 10 Cloverfield Lane’s director, Dan Trachtenberg, seemed to retain the lessons from his sole successful entry in the universe.When Trachtenberg took on the Predator franchise, he grasped that a single, ongoing narrative isn’t necessary. Instead, he used the Predator brand to tell stories he found compelling. Prey, Predator: Killer of Killers, and Predator Badlands are all vastly different films; the only unifying element is the presence of a Predator.This is similar to what Rian Johnson achieved with the Knives Out franchise. There are a handful of required elements—in Predator’s case, simply a Predator, a character with a development arc, and plenty of action—and these elements free you up to experiment with the rest of the story.10 Cloverfield Lane’s release coincided with a flood of Marvel, DCEU, and Star Wars content, meaning this style of storytelling was unlikely to become Hollywood’s dominant approach. Audiences still wanted to follow every chapter of a single story, knowing those chapters would lead to grand, eventful payoffs.The brilliance of 10 Cloverfield Lane lies in how it integrated an original story—in this case, a script titled The Cellar—into a larger franchise—a practice that’s all but extinct today. | Paramount Pictures/Bad Robot/Kobal/ShutterstockA decade later, Trachtenberg’s approach feels somewhat ahead of its time. We now live in a time where franchise films aren’t automatically guaranteed massive success. Instead, a mix of familiar IP and the perception that the film itself is worth seeing appears to determine which movies thrive and which flop (having a family-friendly angle doesn’t hurt either).The old franchise filmmaking model still has some influence, but the new DC Universe appears to be borrowing elements from 10 Cloverfield Lane’s approach. These films are more closely linked, yes, but the ultimate goal is to make engaging movies that are interconnected, using the properties as a starting point to tell meaningful stories.A decade ago, 10 Cloverfield Lane felt like a bit of an experiment, and the Cloverfield franchise’s take on it fizzled out. Today, however, the film serves as a vital reminder: audiences don’t just crave the same thing repeatedly. Sometimes, they want something fresh—and they love it even more when that fresh thing is also good.10 Cloverfield Lane is streaming on Pluto TV and Paramount+.
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American trapped in Bahrain describes surviving alleged Iranian attack on tower, appeals for evacuation aid
With the U.S.-Iran conflict now in its second week, widespread flight cancellations and airport shutdowns across the Middle East have left numerous Americans overseas desperately seeking routes back home.Yahir, an American stranded in Bahrain when the fighting began, informed Digital of a narrow escape over the weekend after a suspected Iranian drone crashed into the lower levels of the high-rise where he was residing. The luxury residential tower was said to be home to many American tourists and likely U.S. Navy personnel from the Fifth Fleet, based near the capital of Manama.Despite seeing the conflict's frightening scenes and living through such an attack, Yahir, from Los Angeles, stated he is still awaiting aid to return home. He alleges that local U.S. embassies and State Department officials have led him through a labyrinth of logistical obstacles without providing clear guidance."My building was struck two days ago," said Yahir, referencing the Fontana Infinity tower in Manama. "I was inside at the time, and the entire structure shook. It was like an earthquake.""It was shocking, but it makes sense because almost everyone living there was American, aside from a few Russians. Fontana was packed with American Navy personnel," he continued.Yahir also reported witnessing horrific incidents of Iranian drones and missiles hitting both military sites and civilian zones, causing massive explosions and sending huge columns of smoke into the sky."We saw the drone strike the building right in front of us," Yahir recounted of one attack. "I remember everyone there was crying. They were evacuating all the buildings. People were weeping. It felt truly devastating."Explosions have apparently become a daily event, some powerful enough to feel like earthquakes that rattle surrounding neighborhoods."The interceptors hitting the missiles make the ground tremble. You feel that every day now," he said. "It's been literally every single day."The regional turmoil has resulted in residents getting multiple daily mobile phone alerts about incoming missiles, according to reports. Each warning compels civilians to seek cover immediately, Yahir noted, remembering one occasion where he sheltered for over an hour in the basement of a popular mall, The Avenues."Now, I even get these alerts in my sleep, and they wake me up," he stated. "It feels like we get those warnings more than ten times a day."The persistent missile strikes have severely disrupted daily life in Bahrain, transforming formerly vibrant areas into near "ghost towns."Yahir mentioned his friends have ceased going to their jobs, and stores are either completely shut or closing much earlier than normal.He added that an increased security presence is noticeable nationwide, with police on almost every corner and large military vehicles conducting daily street patrols.Yahir voiced profound frustration with the local U.S. Embassy, claiming there has been minimal government help and labeling the entire ordeal as "terrible."When asking about evacuation flights, calls to the embassy frequently played an automated message instructing citizens not to expect U.S. government assistance and that embassies cannot help with anything, Yahir reported."I believe they need to focus on embassies globally because I feel they are useless to Americans. They don't help us at all," Yahir said. "I just want to go home."Although he submitted a crisis intake form provided by the State Department, he has gotten little information on evacuation plans. The holdups and absence of clear communication have left him feeling abandoned and worried without a solid strategy to get back, he explained.The State Department informed Digital on Tuesday that more than 40,000 American citizens have safely returned to the United States from the Middle East since Feb. 28. A spokesperson said U.S. authorities directly aided over 27,000 of those Americans overseas with travel support and other security advice."Led by President Trump and Secretary Rubio, the Department of State has operated over two dozen charter flights and safely evacuated thousands of Americans from the Middle East," the department stated. "The State Department will continue to actively assist any American citizen who wishes to leave the Middle East."American citizens stuck in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel are advised to fill out the Crisis Intake Form on the State Department website or call +1-202-501-4444.
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‘Mortal Kombat 2’ Might Be the “Best Video Game Adaptation Ever” — But Not for the Reason You Think
Warner Bros. PicturesMore than 30 years have passed since Hollywood first seriously attempted a video game adaptation with 1993’s ill-fated Super Mario Bros., yet the concept still feels like it hasn’t reached its full potential. The game-to-screen process is in far better shape than it was three decades ago, and the era of clueless studio executives adapting source material they’re ashamed of appears to be over—though that problem hasn’t vanished entirely. Now, there’s a new opposite issue: rigid, hollow aesthetic recreations that exist solely to profit from massive fanbases, offering little more than glorified Easter eggs. Even today, adaptations that truly engage with the creative spirit of their source material (like Amazon’s Fallout) remain rare.One franchise, in particular, has endured long enough to experience both extremes: a cheesy, tonally muddled 1990s attempt to please the masses, and a polished, big-budget 2021 “for the fans” adaptation. No cinematic version of Mortal Kombat has yet nailed the perfect formula, but if Karl Urban’s recent comments hold weight, the upcoming Mortal Kombat 2 won’t just be the best adaptation of the games—it might be the best video game adaptation ever. And depending on your perspective, he could be right.It certainly can’t be as bad as MK’s original cinematic sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. | Warner Bros. PicturesAt the recent Emerald City Comic-Con, where he was celebrating the upcoming final season of The Boys, Karl Urban took a moment to assure fans that the sequel to 2021’s Mortal Kombat will indeed be “the best video game adaptation to ever hit the big screen.” This is a bold claim, considering the success of critically acclaimed adaptations like Fallout and The Last of Us, and the lukewarm reception to the first film in Simon McQuoid’s reboot trilogy. However, if we define “best adaptation” not by box office success, critical acclaim, or subjective quality, but by how sincerely it replicates the mood and essence of the original game, Mortal Kombat 2 stands a strong chance of taking the crown.The MK series is one of gaming’s most beloved franchises for several reasons, but the most notable are its massive roster of larger-than-life characters and the absurd, Looney Tunes-level gore that’s been a staple from the start. Hardcore fans know the lore and story of each game well, but to be honest, the convoluted, Saturday morning cartoon structure of the overarching narrative is almost intentionally ridiculous, serving as a vehicle for brutal, bone-crunching action. None of the games in the series can claim the storytelling depth of titles like Shadow of the Colossus or Silent Hill, nor do they need to—their plots, which feel akin to an isekai or a cheesy 80s high-concept action film, perfectly complement the games.The perpetual edginess of it all is also part of the charm. | Warner Bros. PicturesWhile the first film suffered from a generic audience-insert main character, action sequences that never matched the intensity of the opening set piece, and a lack of focus on the ensemble, Mortal Kombat 2 has a chance to address these critiques. Cole Young has notably been absent from all marketing, trailers are teasing high-intensity fight scenes that embrace the characters’ creativity, and it seems the game’s characters will get more spotlight this time. Even if it doesn’t become a critical darling like recent adaptations, Karl Urban’s enthusiasm might be justified. Mortal Kombat has a dedicated fanbase because it knows its identity and leans into it. If Mortal Kombat 2 centers the action, the eclectic roster, and avoids over-explaining the lore to be taken seriously, it could very well be the “best” video game adaptation—a film that perfectly complements its source material.Mortal Kombat 2 hits theaters on May 8, 2026.
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US consulate in Toronto hit by gunfire, police confirm; no injuries reported
Gunfire hit the U.S. consulate in Toronto early Tuesday morning, which authorities are describing as a "national security incident."According to Toronto Police Service Deputy Chief Frank Barredo, two male suspects got out of a white Honda CR-V at approximately 4:30 a.m., fired guns at the heavily secured building, and then escaped.Authorities reported that the CR-V drove west on Dundas Street West, then turned south on University Avenue, stopping in front of the consulate.Multiple shell casings were recovered by investigators, who also discovered damage to the glass and door of the building.Barredo stated that he thinks people were present inside the building during the shooting, but no injuries were reported.Chris Leather, chief superintendent of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Ontario overseeing criminal operations, informed reporters that the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team has been activated and is collaborating with Toronto police, federal partners, and U.S. counterparts, including the FBI.He noted that it's premature to establish a motive or determine if the shooting will be classified as terrorism under Canada's criminal code."Any form of intimidation, harassment, or harmful targeting of communities or individuals in Canada will not be tolerated," Leather added.As a precautionary measure, security has been heightened at the U.S. and Israeli consulates in Toronto and the Ottawa region.According to officials, there is no evidence of a continuing threat to public safety while the investigation is ongoing.A State Department official informed Digital that the agency is aware of the incident and is monitoring developments closely in partnership with local law enforcement.Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated, "The shooting at the U.S. consulate early this morning is a completely unacceptable act of violence and intimidation directed at our American friends and neighbors.""All levels of government throughout Canada must make it clear that there is zero tolerance for such intimidating and dangerous behaviour, and that we will take all necessary steps to prosecute and punish those responsible to the maximum extent permitted by law," he posted on X.
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Iran regime cited as Trump administration set to designate Sudan’s Muslim Brotherhood a terror group
JOHANNESBURG: Citing Iran, the Trump administration is taking further action against the Muslim Brotherhood—this time amid one of the world’s most severe conflicts: Sudan’s civil war.On Monday, the State Department labeled the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood (SMB) a "Designated Global Terrorist" and intends to designate the group as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, set to take effect on March 16, 2026. The statement also included a warning to Iran regarding its interference in the conflict."The SMB has provided more than 20,000 fighters to the war in Sudan, with many receiving training and other support from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps," the statement noted. It added, "As the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism, the Iranian regime has funded and directed malicious activities worldwide through its IRGC. The United States will utilize all available tools to deny the Iranian regime and Muslim Brotherhood branches the resources needed to engage in or support terrorism."In November, the State Department sanctioned the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, designating it a terrorist organization in those countries.The State Department noted that the organization "comprises the Sudanese Islamic Movement and its armed wing—the al-Baraa Bin Malik Brigade (BBMB)—and employs unrestrained violence against civilians to hinder efforts to resolve the conflict in Sudan and promote its violent Islamist ideology."The statement further indicated that the group’s "fighters have carried out mass executions of civilians in captured areas and repeatedly executed civilians summarily based on race, ethnicity, or perceived ties to opposition groups."Edmund Fitton-Brown, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), told Digital that the Muslim Brotherhood has deep links within the Sudanese government’s Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and is actively contributing to the war against the Rapid Support Forces.Fitton-Brown, a former U.K. ambassador to Yemen, added that the Brotherhood has a "strong presence" in the Sudanese regular army.Highlighting that the Brotherhood in Sudan has historical connections to Osama Bin Laden—who, alongside al Qaeda, was responsible for the 9/11 terrorist attacks—Fitton-Brown stated that the State Department’s move is significant. "It is the first clear sign that the November executive order was just the start of a process."Regarding the sanctioning of the Brotherhood in several regional countries, he said, "I anticipate many more such designations, possibly beginning with al-Islah in Yemen." He noted the move "puts Sudan under political pressure as it effectively links its government to a terrorist entity."The impact of the nearly three-year-long civil war on Sudan’s population is devastating. Last month, the Council on Foreign Relations’ global conflict tracker reported that "death toll estimates vary widely, with the former U.S. envoy for Sudan suggesting up to 400,000 have been killed since the conflict began on April 15, 2023. Over 11 million people have been displaced, creating the world’s worst displacement crisis."On Monday, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Sen. Jim Risch, R-Idaho, posted on X, "This is a critical step to limit the Muslim Brotherhood’s influence in the region, particularly as hardline Islamists seek to reassert themselves. We must now also seriously consider extending the same FTO designation to the genocidal Rapid Support Forces and their terror campaign in Sudan."Fitton-Brown said the State Department’s designation of the Brotherhood in Sudan "is positive because it objectively targets a group that has inflicted decades of suffering on Sudan. It does not signal support for the RSF. It could empower democratic forces within Sudan, though it will not be enough to alter Sudan’s governance or end the civil war without more proactive external engagement in the country."Nicholas Coghlan, a former Canadian diplomat in Khartoum, was less optimistic, telling Toronto’s Globe and Mail that hardline factions within leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s government alliance "will now push him to disregard the U.S. and other potential mediators and escalate actions," adding "they have nothing left to lose by holding back."
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Cuban activist tells Trump: ‘Make Cuba great again’ by ending communist rule
Amid rolling blackouts, food shortages, and resurgent protests in Cuba, human rights activist Rosa María Payá told Digital in an interview that the island’s worsening crisis can’t be fixed by economic reforms alone—and she’s calling on the U.S. to keep up pressure on Havana’s communist government.These recent outages and shortages are linked to Cuba’s deteriorating energy and economic crisis.A recent countrywide blackout, sparked by a failure at the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant (Cuba’s biggest power station), knocked out electricity for much of the country, per Reuters. The crisis has been made worse by fuel shortages following the Trump administration’s moves to limit oil shipments to the island—especially from Venezuela, a top Cuban supplier.Cuban officials claim U.S. sanctions have exacerbated the country’s economic struggles, while repeated power plant breakdowns and an outdated electrical grid have left millions dealing with long blackouts—stoking rising public anger and protests.A state-owned company cited U.S. sanctions in an official statement, declaring, “Without ending the financial blockade, there can be no permanent energy stability,” per CubaHeadlines.In recent months, the Trump administration has ramped up pressure on Cuba by tightening sanctions and targeting oil shipments that power the island’s energy infrastructure. These steps are part of a wider push to weaken the Cuban government and back democratic change there.Speaking directly to President Trump, Payá said: “It’s important for you to know that the Cuban people are thankful for what this administration is doing—and we’re ready. We want to make Cuba great again. That means ending the communist dictatorship, not just a new economy, but a new republic.”Her plea comes as Cuba has reentered Washington’s foreign policy conversations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio—the son of Cuban immigrants and one of the most influential Cuban American voices in U.S. politics—has long pushed for a harder line on Havana and greater support for pro-democracy movements on the island.The Trump administration has lately stepped up pressure on the Cuban government, including actions aimed at oil shipments that keep the island’s ailing energy sector running.During a Tuesday press conference, Trump praised Rubio and hinted he could take a key role in any future negotiations with Havana.“Marco Rubio is doing a great job,” Trump said. “I think he’s going to go down as the greatest secretary of state in history. They trust Marco.”A White House official told Digital on Tuesday: “The United States supports the Cuban people’s pursuit of democracy, prosperity, and fundamental freedoms. We call on the Cuban regime to end its repression, release all unjustly detained political prisoners, and respect the rights and freedoms of all Cubans.”“We want to work with President Trump and Secretary Rubio—the opposition is united,” Payá said. “We have a plan: it’s called the Freedom Accord,” she added, referencing a democratic transition framework backed by Cuban opposition groups. “We’re ready to lead this process. The moment is now, Mr. President.”Opposition groups created the Freedom Accord—a political roadmap for democratic change—that she says would steer a transition away from Cuba’s current system.Payá, 37, who fled Cuba 13 years ago, has spent the last decade advocating globally for democratic change there.She’s the daughter of Oswaldo Payá, a prominent dissident who founded the Christian Liberation Movement and led the Varela Project—a 2000s petition drive that collected over 25,000 signatures calling for free elections and civil liberties in Cuba.Her father died in 2012 alongside fellow activist Harold Cepero in an incident Payá calls an assassination by the Cuban regime. Cuban officials said the men died in a car crash in eastern Cuba, but the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights later found “serious indications” that Cuban state agents were involved.“After the Cuban regime assassinated my father… I’ve tried to carry on his legacy with so many other Cubans—on the island and in exile—who now believe we have a real chance at freedom,” she said, noting the movement includes activists both in Cuba and abroad.Per Payá, the crisis in Cuba has gotten so bad that basic survival is a daily battle for many families.“Today, mothers don’t know if they’ll be able to feed their children tonight,” she said. “Most of the island has endured blackouts that last days at a time.” In recent years, the island has seen waves of unrest fueled by economic collapse and political repression.The biggest protests against the regime happened on July 11, 2021, when thousands of Cubans marched across the island chanting “freedom”—the largest demonstrations since the 1959 revolution.Authorities reacted with mass arrests and prison terms for many protesters.To Payá, those protests were about more than just economic anger.“The Cuban people have been fighting for freedom for 67 years,” she said. “We’re demanding political freedom—not just a new economy.”Even though some compare Cuba’s crisis to Venezuela’s political chaos, Payá says Cuba’s situation is entirely different.“Cuba’s situation is quite different,” she said. “This is the longest-running communist dictatorship in the Western Hemisphere.”Though she stressed Cubans must ultimately lead political change, Payá said international pressure is still vital because of the regime’s ability to crush dissent.Her plea comes as Cuba has reentered Washington’s foreign policy talks.Payá said the Cuban opposition wants the U.S. to keep supporting democratic change on the island.“I believe President Trump knows—better than anyone—the difference between a real deal and a better one,” she said. “He understands this dictatorship must end.”“To end the crisis,” she added, “we need to end the regime.”Digital reached out to the White House and Rubio for comment but hasn’t received a response yet.
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‘One Piece’ Season 2 Finally Hits Its Goofy Stride
One Piece stands as the ultimate challenge in television viewing. This enduring anime has thrived for more than 1,000 episodes, which technically constituted just its first season. Consequently, when Netflix undertook the task of creating a live-action adaptation, it was understood that not every element could make the cut. Season 1 debuted the perfectly cast Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy), the rubbery youngster aspiring to become the King of the Pirates. However, the majority of its eight installments were dedicated to setting the stage, exploring character histories, and assembling the crew of the Going Merry, Luffy's vessel. With Season 2 currently streaming on Netflix, One Piece is finally able to progress beyond the initial setup and delve into the elements that have retained audiences year after year and arc after arc: adventures hopping between islands, villains who are both frightening and campy, and narratives that evoke unexpected tears. Reunited with Luffy and the crew. | NetflixWhen we last saw Luffy, he had finally secured his role as captain of a complete crew: navigator Nami (Emily Rudd), master swordsman Roronoa Zoro (Mackenyu), warrior and storyteller Usopp (Jacob Romero), and ship's cook Sanji (Taz Skyler). Now, they are embarking on a journey to the Grand Line, a vast chain of islands encircling the globe. Adding complexity to the situation is Baroque Works, a cadre of assassins determined to eliminate Luffy at all costs—thanks to them, even a simple shopping run escalates into a desperate escape for survival. It is through Baroque Works that One Piece particularly showcases its greatest strength: compelling villains endowed with intriguing Devil Fruit abilities. Among them are Mr. 3 (David Dalmastian), capable of manipulating candle wax; Miss Valentine (Jazzara Jaslyn), who can alter her body weight at will; and Mr. 5 (Camrus Johnson), possessing explosive bodily fluids. These are thoroughly campy, mustache-twirling antagonists, each defined by unique aesthetics and combat techniques. Is it realistic? Certainly not. Yet, this is One Piece, a world where the suspension of disbelief is as vast as a suspension bridge. Ultimately, that is irrelevant. The Baroque Works antagonists add a campy flair to the Straw Hats’ initial venture into the Grand Line. | NetflixUpon entering the Grand Line, One Piece adopts a format reminiscent of Star Trek: the vessel arrives at a peculiar, enigmatic island featuring a unique gimmick (governed by a tyrannical regime! populated by giants! a massive whale!). Typically, the crew divides, and gradually each member discovers the nuances of the new environment—and the danger that inevitably awaits them. Much like any quality episodic show such as Star Trek, One Piece maintains perfect pacing. Storylines that would typically span several 22-minute anime episodes are adapted smoothly into hour-long live-action segments, including a few two-part episodes toward the conclusion. The live-action portrayal of Tony Tony Chopper is poised to become a fan favorite, mirroring his animated version. | NetflixI will confess: I am not the most ardent admirer of the animated One Piece. While I cherish the characters and narratives, the stylization and structure can sometimes be obstructive—it is difficult to maintain excitement for a battle when it is interrupted every 20 minutes by credits. This live-action iteration effectively takes each arc from the source anime and translates it not only into English but into a more consumable format. It closely resembles an episode of Lost: a present-day challenge interwoven with flashbacks that allow us to better understand new characters. And those characters appear in abundance. Every Baroque Works assassin is more flamboyant than the previous one (after all, they are not named Minimalist Works), and every outrageous moment from the anime is faithfully adapted with just the right amount of sincerity. Thus, when you encounter Tony Tony Chopper (Mikaela Hoover) in the final three episodes, your initial reaction is not, "a talking reindeer? that is a bit excessive." Rather, it is, "I have known this talking reindeer for five minutes and I would do anything for him." That is the enchantment of One Piece. Fueled by Luffy’s unwavering optimism, the series functions as an engine of empathy, producing one endearing character after another; even the villains might be wicked, yet they remain delightful to despise. In Season 2, the narrative machinery is fully engaged and prepared to launch. While the show may not extend to 1,000 episodes—it is Netflix, after all—this formula is unlikely to grow stale anytime soon. One Piece Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
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Vietnam calls for remote work amid Middle East fuel supply and price crisis
Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade is advising companies to promote remote work arrangements to lower fuel usage, as the nation faces supply shortages and significant price hikes resulting from the conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.In a Tuesday announcement, the government noted that Vietnam is particularly vulnerable to this instability because of its significant dependence on Middle Eastern energy imports. Referencing a report from the trade ministry, the government requested that businesses "encourage work-from-home when possible to reduce the need for travel and transportation."Data from Petrolimex, the nation's leading fuel distributor, indicates that fuel costs have spiked since late last month, with gasoline increasing by 32%, diesel by 56%, and kerosene by 80%. On Tuesday, Hanoi petrol stations experienced long queues of vehicles.Furthermore, the ministry cautioned businesses and citizens against fuel hoarding or speculative activities.Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh conducted discussions on Monday with officials from Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to guarantee supplementary crude oil and fuel shipments. Additionally, the government has eliminated fuel import duties until the end of April to alleviate market strain.Military actions against Iran ordered by President Donald Trump have led to crude market volatility; prices reached $120 per barrel in the U.S. over the weekend before retreating to slightly above $80 on Monday evening following Trump's remarks at a Republican event in Florida.Market prices have leveled off after Trump provided assurances to investors regarding the security of oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit point for the largely dismantled Iranian regime.Regional tensions remain high following Iran's naming of Mojtaba Khamenei as the successor to the supreme leadership, a development that Trump stated he "was not happy" about."I don't believe he can live in peace," Trump remarked while aboard Air Force One.On Tuesday, Iran's Revolutionary Guard threatened to halt all oil exports from the Middle East until U.S. and Israeli military operations conclude. In response, Trump warned that he would strike Iran "20 times harder" should they obstruct exports.Despite the aggressive posturing from both parties, investors expressed optimism on Tuesday that Trump might soon end the conflict, aiming to prevent the current energy supply disruptions from triggering a global economic crisis."I'm hearing they want to talk badly," Trump stated, noting that the Department of War claims 50 Iranian naval vessels have been destroyed and suggesting that military objectives are nearing completion."It's possible," Trump said regarding potential negotiations with the new Iranian leadership, though he noted it "depends on what terms, possible, only possible.""You know, we sort of don't have to speak anymore, you know, if you really think about it, but it's possible," he added.' Trey Yingst and Reuters contributed to this report.
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Kincora Consolidates, Commences Geophysics and Forms Partnership at Cowal East
Expansion of tenure, commencement of sole-funded exploration and next-generation "quantum" gravity partnership at wholly owned Cowal East project within the highly prospective Cowal Igneous Complex of the Macquarie ArcHighlights40% expansion of tenure through consolidation of the southern extension of the Jemalong licence with the enlarged landholding now referred to as the Cowal East projectConsolidated licence portfolio was last held by Gold Fields with no fieldwork undertaken for over a decadeCommencement of a "traditional" ground gravity surveyNew partnership with Atomionics Pte Ltd (Atomionics) for follow up deployment of next generation "quantum" ground gravity technology and AI interpretationMELBOURNE, Mar 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Gold-copper explorer and hybrid project generator Kincora Copper Limited (ASX: KCC) (TSXV: KCC) (Kincora or the Company) is pleased to announce a series of initiatives advancing its 100%-owned Cowal East project, located within the highly endowed and tightly held Cowal Igneous Complex (CIC) of the Macquarie Arc in Central West NSW.The CIC is a world-class geological terrane hosting an estimated endowment of more than 20Moz gold and 5Mt copper 1, including Evolution Mining's flagship Cowal gold mine, which generated approximately A$3 million a day in cash flow during the December 2025 quarter 2.The expanded Cowal East project now covers approximately 100km2, following the strategic pegging of a southern extension directly from the NSW Government. A comprehensive ground gravity survey has commenced to provide more consistent coverage across the project, including the full Jemalong license, with infill coverage over the main existing known prospect areas.President & CEO Sam Spring, commented: "The Cowal Igneous Complex hosts Evolution Mining's flagship Cowal mine and the large Marsden porphyry system. It is tightly owned and has historically attracted significant exploration investment from major mining companies. "Despite its highly prospective setting and presence of a confirmed intrusive-related gold system, Cowal East has seen relatively limited drilling. "Consistent with our focused strategy for sole funded exploration projects, we are pleased to have expanded our land position by 40%, commenced the first on-ground exploration activities at Cowal East in over a decade and formed an innovative partnership with Atomionics to deploy next-generation gravity technology. "Ground gravity surveys are a proven exploration tool in the Macquarie Arc, extensively used by Kincora and our earn-in partner AngloGold Ashanti, as well as other explorers in the district."We are excited to gain access to Atomionics' proprietary quantum gravity technology and AI-powered modelling platform, initially at Cowal East but with a pathway for other projects. This technology has the potential to significantly enhance subsurface imaging — faster, more cost effectively, and potentially with materially improved resolution — providing the scope for meaningful advantages in undercover exploration." Mikhail Zeldovich, Chief Commercial Officer of Atomionics, stated: "Kincora's large and prospective Cowal East project, with limited drilling confirming an already known Macquarie Arc intrusive system under shallow to moderate post mineral cover, provides an ideal testbed for comparative deployment of our proprietary quantum-based Gravio system survey and a high-quality traditional gravimetry. "We look forward working with the highly experienced Kincora technical team and systematically advancing the Cowal East project. "Our ambition is to partner with Kincora, and other explorers, to save time and drilling budgets in accelerating the targeting, discovery and drill out phases. "In addition to partnering with Kincora, our 2026 roadmap is scheduling several other deployments of our system with several of the world's largest metal miners, as well as explorers in multiple fields, including metals, hydrocarbons, geothermal and geologic hydrogens. Gravio, combined with our proprietary geologic AI system, ORE-O, is on its way to develop the world's first Large Planet Model to enable mapping of critical resources of the Earth's crust for the benefit of humanity's future."COWAL IGNEOUS COMPLEX The Cowal Igneous Complex (CIC) is a world-class geological terrain hosting an estimated greater than 20Moz gold and 5Mt copper metal endowment 1 within a 40 by 15km fault bounded block of the Junee-Narromine Belt of the Macquarie Arc.The CIC is prospective for both low sulfidation epithermal mineralisation, such as the various deposits within the Gold Corridor that make up the Cowal mine, and, calc-alkalic copper gold porphyry systems such as the Marsden deposit.The Cowal mine was acquired by Evolution Mining (Evolution, (ASX: EVN) and A$30 billion market capitalization 3) in 2015 from Barrick hosting a 3.4Moz gold resource with a current endowment of 14Moz. Cowal is Evolution's flagship mine which in the December 2025 quarter generated $3 million a day of cashflow at an average gold price of A$6206/oz (spot A$7285/oz) 2.The Marsden deposit is located ~16km to the southeast of the Endeavour 42 (E42) open pit on the eastern margin the CIC, ~50km southwest of the Northparkes group of porphyry deposits and ~20km northeast of the northern end of the Temora porphyry cluster held by LinQ Minerals. Kincora's technical director, John Holliday, was involved in the discovery ofMarsden, with Evolution estimating its potential endowment pre being dismembered as 5Mt copper and 8-10Moz gold.Tenure of the CIC is highly consolidated, primarily by Evolution with Kincora owning 100% of the Cowal East and Fairholme projects, and noting Newmont is earning into Koonenberry Gold's Fairholme project (immediately adjacent and north to Kincora's Fairholme project) – see Figure 1.COWAL EAST PROJECTThe ground included in the current Cowal East project has been the focus of many major explorers, including Geopeko, CRA Exploration, BHP, Newcrest, most recently Gold Fields (until 2015) and FMG (until 2025). Despite being widely recognized as a very prospective setting for porphyry copper-gold mineralisation and intrusion-associated gold mineralisation, and hosting a known intrusion related gold system, the Cowal East project has had relatively limited prior drilling.The project is located as close as 9km east of the Cowal mine, immediately the other side of Lake Cowal, and as close as 4km north of the Marsden deposit. The terrain is very flat to undulating in isolated parts and is used for extensive cropping and some grazing. The Newell Highway passes through the southern section of the project and access is readily available via numerous unsealed farm roads and tracks.GROUND GRAVITY SURVEYKincora has contracted Daishsat Geodetic Surveyors (Daishsat) to undertake a ground gravity survey to provide more consistent spaced coverage across the Cowal East project, including the full Jemalong license, with infill coverage over the main existing prospect areas, including Jemalong Channel which is host to a confirmed intrusive gold system under shallow to moderate post mineral cover – see Figure 2.This approach follows Kincora's ongoing exploration template in the northern undercover section of the Junee-Narromine Belt, being advanced in partnership with AngloGold Ashanti, where "traditional" ground gravity surveys have been conducted across three licenses in the last 18 months.The survey is anticipated to support improved structural interpretation of the wider project, including definition of basement architecture, intrusive geometries, major structural corridors and potentially the refinement of subtle intrusive system targets for drill testing. Ground gravity is being used by multiple other porphyry explorers in the district.PARNTERSHIP WITH ATOMIONICSThe Company has entered a binding Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with Atomionics initially focused on the Cowal East project but with scope to be expanded to other Kincora projects.For the Cowal East project, Atomionics will analyze the results of the "traditional" Daishsat ground gravity survey. A second phase will see Atomionics, at largely its own cost, complete a subsequent survey utilising its proprietary new generation "quantum" sensors with results of the two surveys', coupled with the existing other geological and geophysical data for the project, integrated within its ORE-O AI-powered modeling platform.Kincora and Atomionic will then look to advance discussions for commercial testing of anticipated high priority drill targets.ABOUT ATOMIONICS PTE LTDAtomionics Pte Ltd (Atomionics) is a Singapore-based startup building quantum sensors for subsurface exploration and universal navigation.Atomionics sensors generate 3D models of the Earth's subsurface to pinpoint critical underground resources or infrastructure and enable GPS-free positioning. Atomionics does this by using cold atom interferometry — cooling atoms to near absolute zero with lasers to measure tiny gravitational changes.It is a hands-on, high-energy team operate at the intersection of quantum physics, electronic and mechanical hardware, and AI. Engineers work across mechanical, electronic, and software systems, with an ultimate goal to create the world's first Large Planet Model, mapping the world's critical buried resources.Atomionics' proprietary Gravio quantum gravity sensors are the world's most advanced portable gravimeter built on cold atom interferometry. Gravio currently acquires high-resolution data from ground-based platforms and is developing its airborne solutions. This seeks to enable faster (potentially 10x) and much higher resolution than traditional surveys of the Earth's subsurface.ORE-O is Atomionics' AI-powered modeling platform. ORE-O seeks to transform data gathered by gravity and other geophysics methods into 3D geological maps with deterministic results — refining not just where deposits might be but also how much resource is likely to be there with greater confidence. Atomionics estimates being able to potentially save up to 80% of exploration drilling costs for the metals exploration industry.Atomionics has undertaken a survey with Rio Tinto and is scheduling one with BHP within Tier-1 copper belts, while in 3Q'2025 Atomionics completed a Pre-Series A round financing to accelerate deployment in Australia and North America. The round was led by Paspalis VC (NT) and included BHP Ventures, IQT, Wavemaker, and Singapore's CapVista among others.To learn more, please visit: www.atomionics.comFor further information, please contact: Mikhail S Zeldovich, Chief Commercial Officer mikhail@atomionics.com +65 8064 2150 or +44 779858 1094 (Whatsapp)Figure 1: Kincora has a strategic portfolio in the world-class and tightly held Cowal Igneous Complex of the Macquarie ArcThe Company has seven major project groups located in Central West NSW, six porphyry and one Cobar style system all with clear exploration and/or corporate strategiesTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2305/287846_kincora%20figure%201.jpg Figure 2: Kincora has increased the size of the portfolio, commencement a sole funded "traditional' ground gravity survey and formed an innovative new technology partnership for a follow up third party funded "quantum" ground gravity surveyRegional geology is masked by 20-120m deep post mineral cover with relatively limited and shallow historic drilling at the Cowal East project and has confirmed a mineralized gold intrusive system at Jemalong Channel following up previous broad gravity and magnetic anomalies/featuresTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2305/287846_kincora%20figure%202.jpgABOUT KINCORA Kincora Copper Limited (ASX: KCC) (TSXV: KCC) is an emerging Australia-focused copper-gold explorer with a hybrid prospect generator strategy. The Company is now successfully proving up the prospectivity of its extensive project portfolio, which includes multiple district-scale landholdings and scalable drill ready targets. These assets are located in Australia's Macquarie Arc and Mongolia's Southern Gobi, two of the globe's leading porphyry belts, and the historical Condobolin mining field within the Cobar Basin in NSW.Kincora is using an asset level partner model to develop and implement exploration strategies for its wholly-owned large-scale exploration stage porphyry projects. The Company has already unlocked over $100 million of potential partner funding for multiple earlier stage and/or non-core porphyry projects 4. These initial deals have supported over 16,000 metres of drilling and over A$7m of partner funded exploration since late 2024 until September 30, 2025, with management fees and exploration ramping up, and, as Kincora increases sole funded exploration across its project portfolio 4.Concurrent with focused value add sole funded exploration activities, partner discussions are ongoing for its remaining 100% owned flagship projects that are all situated within existing porphyry camps containing over 20-million-ounce gold equivalent resource inventory.The Company has assembled an industry leading technical team who have made multiple world-class copper and gold discoveries, who have "skin in the game" equity ownership, and, backed by a consolidated and sophisticated shareholder register.To learn more, please visit: www.kincoracopper.com.References: District, regional and adjacent property information disclosed is provided for general awareness and educational purposes and is not necessarily indicative to the mineralisation on the property that is the subject of the disclosure for the Company.The Jemalong license (EL8502) has recently been proposed for a 100%, 4-year renewal term by NSW Resources, of the NSW State Government. The Jemalong South license (EL9708) was granted on November 11, 2025 with a 5-year term. 1 The estimated greater than 20Moz gold and 5Mt copper original metal endowment of the Cowal Igneous Complex (CIC) includes the following deposits:The Cowal Gold Corridor: endowment of 13.8Moz gold comprising total gold production to 30 June 2025 and gold Mineral Resource as at 31 December 2024 - reported by Evolution Mining on 23 February 2026 "BMO Global Metals & Mining Conference Presentation".The Marsden deposit: Estimation by Evolution Mining of the potential endowment pre being dismembered of 5Mt copper and 8-10Moz gold - The Mines & Wines September 2024 conference "New insights from the Cowal gold deposit" presentation.2 Cowal December 2025 quarter cash flow of $3 million a day at an average gold price of A$6206/oz sourced from Kristie Batten on X (@kristiebatten) January 21, 2026. Spot Australian gold price sourced from ABC Bullion (https://www.abcbullion.com.au) and as at March 9, 2026.3 Evolution Mining market capitalization as at March 9, 2026.4 Over $100 million of potential partner funding for seven earlier stage and/or non-core projects via 5 deals and four partners, with over 16000 metres of drilling and over A$7m of partner funded exploration since late 2024 until Sep 30, 2025 includes:(a) The original up to A$50m earn-in & JV agreement with AngloGold Ashanti for the Nyngan & Nevertire projects and the amended agreement to include the Nyngan South, Nevertire South and Mulla projects including another up to A$50m earn-in & JV: refer May 28, 2024 release "AngloGold Ashanti to earn-in to the NJNB Project" and Apr 14, 2025, "Second Major Earn-in Secured with AngloGold Ashanti" (estimated budget approximately $4.5m, incl. 27 holes for 10,780.6m of drilling, Kincora currently the project manager receiving a 10% fee of expenditure). For more information on AngloGold Ashanti please visit their website at www.anglogoldashanti.com (b) Fleet Space Technologies (which in December 2024 raised $150m in a Series D financing) partnership under R&D Grant for geophysical surveys at Nyngan: refer Jul 25, 2024 release "ANT and Gravity Geophysical Surveys at the Nyngan Project" (estimated budget approximately $500k). For more information on Fleet Space please visit their website at https://www.fleetspace.com(c) Fleet Space partnership for the Wongarbon project: refer Oct 16, 2024 release "Kincora announces Strategic Investment & Expanded Partnership with Fleet Space" (Fleet Space is to conduct ANT & gravity surveys with the right to fund >2000m of drilling for an earn-in/JV. Estimated budget for ANT & gravity surveys $600k, follow up drilling >$0.5m). On October 22, 2025, Kincora was awarded a cooperative funding grant from the NSW Government for up to A$143,483 supporting a first ever drilling campaign to basement at the Wongarbon project. On November 18, 2025 Kincora announced a maiden hole funded with the NSW grant had commenced "Kincora commences drilling at the Wongarbon porphyry project" (results pending).(d) Exploration Alliance partner Earth AI (which in January 2025 raised US$20m in a Series B financing) drilling commenced at the Cundumbul project: refer May 20, 2024 release "Artificial Intelligence Partner Drilling New Copper Targets at the Cundumbul Project" (Earth AI has the right to right to spend up to $4.5m at Cundumbul and earn an NSR upon a "qualifying interval". Estimated budget to date >$850k, incl. 5 completed holes for >2500m with a VTEM geophysical survey recently completed and analysis ongoing). For more information on Earth AI please visit their website at https://earth-ai.com/ See Kincora's September 30, 2025 quarterly accounts released November 13, 2025 for further background and information.This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Kincora Copper Limited (ARBN 645 457 763)For further information, please contact: Sam Spring, President and Chief Executive Officer sam.spring@kincoracopper.com or +61431 329 345Laurie Thomas, Strategic Advisorlaurie.thomas@kincoracopper.com or +1306 341 3826 Media contact Julia Maguire, Managing Director, The Capital Networkjulia@thecapitalnetwork.com.au or +61 2 7257 7338 Executive officeSubsidiary office Australia 400 - 837 West Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6C 3N6, Canada Tel: 1.604.283.1722 C/- JM Corporate ServicesLevel 6, 350 Collins StreetMelbourne, VIC, Australia 3000 Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this announcement was prepared in accordance with the standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum and National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and was reviewed, verified and compiled by Kincora's staff under the supervision of Peter Leaman (M.Sc. Mineral Exploration, FAusIMM), Senior Vice-President of Exploration of Kincora, and John Holliday (BSc Hons, BEc, member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists), Non-Executive Director and Chairman of Kincora's Technical Committee, who are Qualified Persons for the purpose of NI 43-101JORC Competent Person StatementInformation in this announcement that relates to Exploration Results, Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves are those that have been previously reported (with the original release referred to in this announcement), in the case of Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves the material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates have not materially changed, and have been reviewed and approved by John Holliday and Peter Leaman, who are Competent Persons under the definition established by JORC and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves'. John Holliday and Peter Leaman consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears. The review and verification process for the information disclosed herein for the Nyngan Projects have included the receipt of all material exploration data, results and sampling procedures of previous operators and review of such information by Kincora's geological staff using standard verification procedures.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain information regarding Kincora contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Kincora believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Kincora cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Kincora currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. Kincora does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) or the Australian Securities Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/287846 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: eqs
MeraPrime Gold Hotel Expands as Sorathia Investments Acquires Adjacent Site in Lisbon
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 10/03/2026 / 15:48 UTC+8 Lisbon, Portugal - March 10, 2026 - (SeaPRwire) - Sorathia Investments, a global firm specializing in hospitality, real estate, and early-stage ventures, has completed the acquisition of the building adjacent to MeraPrime Gold Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal, according to the company. The purchase strengthens the company's hospitality presence in the city's historic center, with plans to develop new upscale suites under the MeraPrime brand. According to Umar Abdul Shakoor Sorathia, CEO and Chairman of Sorathia Investments, the expansion reflects the company's ongoing commitment to its hospitality operations in key European markets. "This investment supports our strategy to grow responsibly within Lisbon's historic and cultural district," Sorathia said. Strengthening Hospitality in Lisbon Located on Rua Áurea near Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio), MeraPrime Gold Hotel features 38 guest rooms and offers a blend of Portuguese-inspired design and modern comfort. The property caters to travelers seeking authentic, culturally influenced stays in the heart of Lisbon, whether visiting for business or leisure. The hotel includes contemporary amenities such as 24-hour concierge service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant, Allow – License to Snack, which serves Halal-certified Portuguese cuisine. Its central location provides convenient walking access to key cultural landmarks, business districts, and waterfront areas. Expanding in a Growing Tourism Market Lisbon continues to rank among Europe's most visited destinations, supported by strong growth in upscale and luxury accommodation demand in recent years. The acquisition positions MeraPrime Gold Hotel to meet this growing demand and enhances its competitive offering among established brands within the city's hospitality market. Sorathia Investments plans to use the new site to expand its accommodation offerings and strengthen its service capabilities, according to the company. It intends to maintain its focus on local engagement, sustainable operations, and staff development as part of its growth approach. A Strategic and Sustainable Approach Founded in 1991, Sorathia Investments operates across manufacturing, real estate, hospitality, and travel services, with operations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, according to the company. Its expansion in Lisbon aligns with the company's philosophy of disciplined, community-centered investments that encourage long-term tourism development. The specific project timeline and investment figures for the new property have not been disclosed, according to Sorathia Investments. However, the development complements its broader objective to combine cultural authenticity with modern hospitality while diversifying its real estate holdings in strategic European locations. About Sorathia Investments Established in 1991, Sorathia Investments operates internationally across manufacturing, real estate, hospitality, and travel services sectors, with operations in Mozambique, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates, according to the company. Its hospitality division includes MeraPrime Gold Hotel, a key part of its European portfolio. Contact Information Brand: Sorathia Investments Contact: Umar Sorathia Email: contact@sorathiainvestments.com Website: https://sorathiainvestments.com 10/03/2026 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com
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by: emer
Fosun Navigates Cyclical Volatility and Clears Risks as Management Reaffirms RMB10 Bn Profit Target for Next 3 to 5 Yrs
HONG KONG, Mar 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – On March 9, Fosun International announced that it has received notices from its controlling shareholder and senior management stating their intention to increase shareholdings by up to HK$500 million within 12 months following the release of the Company's 2025 annual results.Previously, Fosun International (00656.HK) issued a profit warning announcement stating that the loss attributable to owners of the parent of the Company for the year ended 31 December 2025 is expected to be approximately RMB21.5 billion to RMB23.5 billion. The book loss is primarily attributable to one-off non-cash impairment provisions and value revaluations on certain assets made pursuant to the principle of financial prudence. The Company’s fundamentals remain solid. Fosun will continue to advance its strategies of focusing on core businesses and streamlining operations and strengthening the business, promote business growth through refined operations, and consolidate its long-term value.At the investor conference call held on 8 March, Fosun’s management emphasised that this represents a thorough “risk clearance.” Through a one-off, concentrated recognition of non-cash impairment provisions, the Company expects to further strengthen the foundation of its financial statements and enhance asset quality, thereby facilitating the future release of earnings and ensuring that operating performance is more accurately reflected. The Company’s operating fundamentals remain stable, financing capacity remains solid with diversified and smooth funding channels, and its core businesses continue to demonstrate positive development momentum. Over the next three to five years, Fosun will continue advancing toward its target of achieving RMB10 billion in profit.Fosun has also conveyed confidence to the market through ongoing share repurchases. On 2 March, Fosun International announced that, based on its assessment of the Company’s long-term development prospects, it plans to repurchase shares on the open market, with a total amount not exceeding HK$1 billion. Prior to this, on 27 February, Fosun International had already repurchased 13.027 million shares at an aggregate consideration of HK$48.2354 million.Analysts point out that Fosun has been continuously signalling confidence to the market through a series of recent initiatives. A rational analysis suggests that following the one-off impairment provisions—which amount to a comprehensive “clean-up” of its balance sheet—the market can look forward to a fundamentally renewed Fosun.On 9 March, Fosun International (00656.HK) closed higher, with its share price rising to HK$3.83, up HK$0.24 from the previous trading day, representing an increase of 6.69%.On the same day, Guotai Haitong Securities initiated coverage of Fosun International for the first time, noting that the Company’s operating fundamentals continue to improve, earnings momentum is accelerating, and future earnings flexibility and upside potential are worth anticipating. The firm assigned a “Buy” rating with a target price of HK$7.24 and a net asset value (NAV) of HK$18.1 per share.The report stated that Fosun’s “streamlining and strengthening” strategy has delivered notable results, with the Company focusing on four major segments and showing signs of navigating through cyclical inflection points. On the one hand, Fosun has substantially exited non-strategic and non-core assets to accelerate its focus on strategic core businesses with market leadership. On the other hand, it continues to integrate Chinese capabilities globally, driving accelerated performance release from its core businesses and progressively expanding into global markets.Goldman Sachs also released a research report, maintaining its "Neutral" rating on Fosun International while raising the target price. The report highlighted that Fosun’s future profit growth will be driven by several factors, including robust growth from upcoming innovative drug launches, stable growth from insurance business, stability in the gold and jewellery retail segment, as well as operational improvements and better output in Intelligent Manufacturing segmentWhy is Fosun advancing asset impairment at this point in time' From a market perspective, Fosun’s one-off recognition of a substantial non-cash book loss represents both risk clearance and a transition from legacy growth drivers to new engines of growth. Following the resolution of risks in traditional segments such as real estate, their impact on Fosun is expected to diminish further. Going forward, Fosun’s growth will be increasingly driven by its core businesses in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, insurance and finance, and tourism, supported by innovative R&D and deep global industrial operations.In the innovative drug segment, Fosun’s commercialization of innovative drugs in 2025 opened up substantial global market opportunities. The global exclusive licensing agreement signed with Pfizer carries a potential total value of over US$2 billion, while the strategic cooperation agreement entered into with biotechnology company Clavis Bio may entitle the Company to receive payments of up to US$7.25 billion. At the beginning of 2026, Fosun further entered into an agreement with Eisai Co., Ltd. in relation to HANSIZHUANG, positioning itself in Japan, the world’s fourth-largest pharmaceutical market, with a potential total value of over US$300 million.In the insurance segment, Fidelidade recorded net profit of €170 million for the first three quarters of 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 11.7%. Peak Reinsurance reported net profit of US$88.8 million for the first half of 2025. Recently, two of Fosun’s domestic insurance companies announced substantial growth in premium income and net profit for 2025. Fosun United Health Insurance recorded business income of RMB7.84 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 50%, ranking among the fastest-growing specialised health insurers, and achieved net profit of RMB130 million for the year. Pramerica Fosun Life Insurance recorded annual insurance business income of RMB12.598 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 36.17%, and achieved net profit of RMB647 million, representing a significant year-on-year increase of over 450%, marking a new level in both the scale and quality of profitability.In addition, in the tourism and culture segment, several of Fosun’s business lines delivered a strong start to the year. During the core six-day Spring Festival holiday period, the average occupancy rate of Club Med’s five premium all-inclusive resorts in China reached 90%. Atlantis Sanya recorded total revenue of over RMB124 million during the nine-day Spring Festival holiday period, representing a year-on-year increase of 20% and achieving its best performance on record.At the investor conference call on 8 March, management further stated that over the next three to five years, the Group will strive to achieve RMB10 billion in profit, while steadily advancing debt reduction and financial structure optimisation. The Company aims to reduce total debt to approximately RMB60 billion and seek to improve its overseas credit rating to investment grade. On the basis of gradually releasing profits, Fosun will continue enhancing shareholder returns.For Fosun, this performance fluctuation represents a profound strategic adjustment. Market analysts expect that, with a healthier asset structure and stronger core capabilities following the completion of risk clearance, Fosun is well positioned to navigate business cycles more effectively and inject greater certainty into future performance. Its management also stated that “2026 will mark the beginning of a new era and a new development cycle for Fosun. We remain confident in the future.” Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
129 Years Later, The First-Ever Sci-Fi Movie Has Finally Been Discovered
Library of CongressIt’s rare to watch a nearly 130-year-old film and experience the thrill of a fresh discovery. Thanks to the U.S. Library of Congress, a work long thought to be the first science fiction film — and, more importantly, long believed lost — has been found, restored, and stabilized: Georges Méliès’ Gugusse et l'Automate, or Gugusse and the Automaton. You can stream it now in 4K to see what may be the first robot ever captured on film, plus possibly the earliest on-screen fable about technology’s risks, even though it’s a 45-second comedy short.Casual film fans may recognize Méliès from Hugo (2011), Martin Scorsese’s Best Picture-nominated movie where Ben Kingsley portrays an elderly, fictionalized version of the French filmmaker, inventor, and stage magician. Between 1895 and 1912, he created more than 500 silent shorts — the most renowned being 1902’s Le Voyage dans la Lune (or A Trip to the Moon). Sadly, most of his works were destroyed and are still fully or partially lost. This made Gugusse a legend: often discussed, but unseen for over 100 years.That changed recently when archivists separated clumped nitrate film strips donated in September (per a compelling blog post from the Library’s Office of Communications). They then realized they were viewing Méliès’ famous 111th production — chronologically, only the 15th of his works to survive completely intact.Georges Méliès is best known for his widely influential film, A Trip to the Moon. | Apic/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesGugusse is, by modern standards, quite simple, but for a late 19th-century film, it remains a showcase of skillful artistry and creative ingenuity. It features a static wide shot of a painted set: in front of it, an inventor or traveling showman (Méliès) winds a life-size automaton (played by a human actor) that repeats programmed swinging motions with a staff. However, each time the robot moves, it grows mysteriously larger — a taller actor takes over after a not-so-subtle match cut, a trick Méliès frequently used. Eventually, the third and tallest automaton breaks its pre-set loop, hits its creator on the head, and he retaliates with an absurdly large hammer: he smashes it down to size, then destroys it in a puff of hand-colored smoke.Méliès was an entertainer, and automata fascinated him (as explained in Hugo and Brian Selznick’s The Invention of Hugo Cabret, the book it’s based on). He owned a large collection of these humanoid animatronics, so it’s no shock they eventually appeared in his films — though played by real actors. This human portrayal of mechanical beings was probably a logistical choice (it was easier for Méliès to bring his vision to life this way), but it still mirrors the underlying tech-related anxieties that would emerge in cinema over the next century. In films like James Cameron’s The Terminator, the robots that overthrow humanity are also modeled after humans — just as modern robots and generative AI often have human-like proportions and emotions, sparking valid concerns about human irrelevance.Linking these modern worries to Méliès’ time isn’t a stretch. 19th-century industrialization already sparked pushback against automation — like the Luddite textile workers in England in the 1810s — so fear of technological progress was already present. In 1898 (just one year after Gugusse), inventor Nikola Tesla showed his own automata at Madison Square Garden: a radio-controlled boat. A New York Times reporter asked if it could be a weapon; Tesla replied it was the start of “the first of a race of robots, mechanical men which will do the laborious work of the human race.” Later, Czech playwright Karel Čapek coined the term “robot” in his 1921 satire Rossum's Universal Robots, about synthetic factory workers who overthrow their human creators.Méliès’ film being restored. | GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty ImagesThis mirrors what’s in Méliès’ once-lost film. Even though it’s under a minute long, its story is about both robotic rebellion and creative arrogance. This theme has been a staple of modern sci-fi, and was likely solidified by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818), widely called the first sci-fi novel. Though not about robots, Frankenstein shares similar fears: a human animating non-living things in their own image, and the resulting consequences. It’s long been thought Shelley knew about humanoid robots then — Swiss automata in the form of child dolls (made by father-son inventors Pierre and Henri Jaquet-Droz) were popular in the late 1700s.Given Gugusse and the Automaton’s comedic tone, its ending is far more upbeat than most sci-fi of its kind: Méliès stands victorious over the invention he accidentally unleashed. It’s a charming magic trick with a happy ending — the sort of optimistic sci-fi fable modern audiences rarely see, even though they’re surrounded by its many descendants (which focus more on “self-destructive arrogance” than the fix). The film’s revival, nearly 130 years after it was made, is a timely reminder of the ethical questions and replacement fears that have accompanied tech progress for centuries. And at the very least, it’s a silly, farcical reminder: with a big enough mallet and a strong swing, machines can be put back in their place.
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by: emer
Impro Precision 2025 Profit Attributable to Shareholders Reaches Record High of HK$726.2 Million, Up 12.7% Year-on-Year, Forecast 2026 Sales Growth Rate to Accelerate to Mid-Double Digits
HONG KONG, Mar 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Impro Precision Industries Limited ("Impro" or the "Group”) (Stock Code: 1286), a world-leading manufacturer of high-precision, high-complexity, and mission-critical components, today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 (the “Year”).In 2025, the revenue of the Group amounted to HK$5,095.5 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 8.7%. Profit attributable to shareholders of the Company amounted to HK$726.2 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 12.7%, while adjusted profit attributable to Shareholders amounted to HK$689.9 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 12.1%. Both set new records. Taking into account the sound cash flow position and business prospects of the Group, the Board resolved to declare a second interim dividend of 8.0 HK cents per share for 2025. Together with the first interim dividend of 8.0 HK cents per share for 2025 already distributed, dividend per share for the Year amounted to 16.0 HK cents. The Group’s robust financial performance, coupled with its forward-looking global footprint and diversified end-markets advantages, successfully attracted capital from Hong Kong, overseas, and the Chinese Mainland to purchase the Group’s shares during the Year. In 2025, the Group’s share price increased significantly by approximately 1.5 times compared to the end of 2024.During the Year, the artificial intelligence boom, significant fluctuations in U.S. tariff policies and ongoing geopolitical conflicts continued to intertwine, profoundly affecting the global market landscape and trends. By virtue of its solid business foundation and its enduringly effective strategies of “Global Footprint”, “Region for Region Manufacturing” and “Dual Source Production”, the Group successfully mitigated market risks and achieved growth in its results. In 2025, the development momentum of artificial intelligence remained strong, driving continued growth in demand for related data centers. As a key component of distributed power generators, the demand for high horsepower engines rose significantly, leading to a substantial year-on-year increase of 43.3% in the Group’s sales in the high horsepower engine end-market. This market became the Group’s largest sub-sector end-market in terms of sales during the Year, accounting for 22.1% of total revenue. Meanwhile, the growth in demand for liquid cooling systems related to artificial intelligence data centers was also very strong, driving a substantial year-on-year increase of 38.4% in revenue from the diversified industrials others end-market. In addition, as new products commenced mass production, revenue from the medical end-market recorded a significant year-on-year increase of 55.2%.Furthermore, as the Group’s Mexico SLP campus is still in the ramp-up stage, with high employee turnover leading to rising scrap rates, it continued to record a relatively large net loss during the Year. Although overall operations still face numerous uncertainties, the strategic value and commercial potential of the Mexico SLP Campus within the Group’s “Global Footprint” will gradually become apparent, with its long-term development potential and contribution worth expecting. In terms of internal management, as more employee dormitories in Mexico are successively put into use, it is expected that the issue of employee turnover will be effectively alleviated. Moreover, to seize the opportunities from the rapid growth of the global investment casting market and to meet strong customer demand, the Group will moderately increase the capital expenditure of the aerospace plant in the Mexico SLP Campus. Subject to prudent assessment, the Group will continue to seek opportunities to expand production capacity and process categories, aiming to share in the dividends of market growth. The Group expects capital expenditure for 2026 to be approximately HK$850 million, of which more than three-quarters will be allocated to the Mexico SLP Campus, with the remainder to be primarily invested in our plants in China.In addition, most of the plants in China have maintained stable operations and continued to achieve stellar financial performance and significant profit growth. With the successful relocation of Foshan Ameriforge (Plant 12) to Nantong and the gradual stabilization of its operations, the plant has demonstrated a steady growth trend in its performance. Plant 8 for surface treatment in Nantong is expected to achieve a turnaround to profitability in 2026.Looking ahead to 2026, in view of the expected continued strong growth of artificial intelligence data centers related products, coupled with a large number of new orders at the Mexico SLP Campus and the recovery of demand in certain end-markets, the Group’s sales revenue growth rate is expected to accelerate over the next two to three years. Based on the Group’s outstanding orders on hand and the progress of future new project development, the Group forecasts that the year-on-year sales growth rate in 2026 will be approximately mid-double digits.The Group expects the diversified industrials sector to continue to demonstrate robust growth momentum. In the high horsepower engine sector, as products are upgraded from castings and rough machining to a higher proportion of deep processing and partial full-finishing, combined with the successive mass production for new projects involving both existing and new customers, and with the large-scale sand casting workshop in Phase II of the Mexico SLP Campus commencing mass production in the middle of this year to provide more capacity, it is expected that high horsepower engine-related components will embark on a new growth curve starting from 2026.The aerospace, energy and medical sector will become one of the Group’s primary growth engines in the future. In the aerospace end-market, the Mexican plants obtained the initial phase of AS9100 quality system certification in January 2026. As aerospace products involve various specialized processes, it is expected that the relevant certifications will be completed successively in the second half of 2026, and mass production will gradually commence. In the medical end-market, the Group will continue to develop surgical robots and related products, which are expected to demonstrate certain growth potential in the coming years.According to industry forecasts, the global investment casting market is set to grow from approximately US$17.5 billion in 2025 to more than US$23.8 billion in 2031, of which approximately US$4 billion will be coming from the aerospace, energy and medical sector. To capture this market opportunity and gain a share of the market growth, the Group is continuously evaluating a potential spin-off and separate listing of the aerospace, energy and medical sector, as well as various other feasible financing options to support the expansion of future production capacity and process categories and make forward-looking preparations for the long-term sustainable development of the aerospace end-sector.To actively explore and lay out the medium-to-long-term growth momentum, the Group has formally established the “Future Business Unit”, which focuses on identifying and evaluating emerging market opportunities that align with the Group’s strategic direction, with the aim of cultivating potential growth projects for the Group and continuing to explore new opportunities amid future industry trends. The “Future Business Unit” will serve as a key innovation engine, assisting the Group’s existing “Aerotek Business Unit”, “Fluidtek Business Unit” and “Mechatek Business Unit” in enhancing market share and global industry status amidst dynamic competition and laying the foundation for the next stage of advancement.Mr. Lu Ruibo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Impro, said, “Looking ahead, the Group will focus on the three core strategies of ‘Global Footprint’, ‘Diversified End-market’ and ‘Twin Growth Engine’, while simultaneously promoting the expansion of the diversified industrials, aerospace, energy, medical and automotive end-markets, and precisely seizing the strategic opportunities brought by the artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the Group will continue to optimize its global production capacity allocation, give full play to the advantages of its global footprint, and actively promote end-market diversification and regional production synergy. In addition, the Group will continue to seek merger and acquisition opportunities with synergistic effects, strengthen its research and development and technical capabilities, drive continuous improvement of the Group’s results by providing diversified, high-quality products and services, and strive to create stable and growing returns for shareholders.” Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
Schwarzenegger’s Underrated Fantasy Series Could Get a Tom Cruise-Style Reboot After 42 Years
Universal PicturesSword-and-sandals fantasy is cautiously returning with this year's Masters of the Universe, but will the genre's revival end there? Viewers may still crave epic battles on vast worlds, as demonstrated by sci-fi successes like Dune. Denis Villeneuve's acclaimed remake has significantly revitalized the franchise — could the same approach work for another overlooked '80s adventure?Similar to how the Dune franchise was resurrected 40 years after its debut, Arnold Schwarzenegger is seeking a revival for some of his most beloved action series. At this year's Arnold Sports Festival, the actor, bodybuilder, and former governor suggested three possible routes for a cinematic return."Fox Studios has somewhat rediscovered 'Arnold,'" Schwarzenegger disclosed. While he's reportedly welcome to star in the upcoming Predator movie and even a Commando sequel, he's also developing the next installment of the Conan the Barbarian franchise. Schwarzenegger stated that the film will be penned and helmed by Christopher McQuarrie, a key figure in the comeback of another major action hero.For the last ten years, McQuarrie has been Tom Cruise's trusted collaborator, writing and occasionally directing Mission: Impossible entries and co-authoring the Top Gun: Maverick screenplay. "They've just brought him on board to write and direct King Conan," Schwarzenegger announced.A new Conan film could bring an underrated genre back to life for good. | Universal PicturesKing Conan will apparently reunite audiences with the legendary warrior following four decades of peaceful rule as Aquilonia's monarch. After being abruptly deposed from his throne, Conan must battle to reclaim his kingdom, reintroducing "all manner of chaos, brutality, sorcery, and monsters" into his existence. Schwarzenegger clearly appears enthusiastic about reprising the character, though he admits any third entry would differ somewhat from its predecessors. Schwarzenegger headlined two movies based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' fantasy hero, Conan: Conan the Barbarian in 1982 and Conan the Destroyer in 1984; the latter produced by Raffaella De Laurentiis, who filmed it consecutively with 1984's Dune. In contrast to David Lynch's Dune, Conan the Destroyer achieved moderate commercial success, grossing approximately $30 million on an $18 million budget. In 2011, Jason Momoa led a Conan reboot, which performed less successfully, taking in $63 million against a $90 million budget. (Though it's intriguing to consider how a Momoa-led Conan might perform in the current marketplace.) So, after all this time, is the world prepared for a new Conan?Schwarzenegger is hardly retired from action films, though he can't quite perform all the feats he did in the '80s and '90s. McQuarrie must "craft [King Conan] to suit my age. I'll still show up and kick some butt, but it'll be different... They don't write these roles as if I'm 40 anymore."Lacking official word from McQuarrie, Schwarzenegger's remarks should be viewed with considerable skepticism. There's a strong possibility that King Conan will follow the same path as all the other follow-ups the actor has spent years advocating for... but if the project actually materializes, it would be pretty incredible. The Conan movies embody a vanished era that merits a revival. These are hugely underappreciated adventures, and while that style of filmmaking has nearly disappeared, attempting to revive it couldn't hurt. More improbable things have occurred, and if it results in seeing Schwarzenegger wielding a huge sword in skimpy armor again, the effort is entirely justified.Conan the Barbarian (1982) and Conan the Destroyer (1984) are both available to stream on AMC+.
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by: emer
Natural Beauty’s 2025 Annual Results Show Steady & Robust Growth
HONG KONG, Mar 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The well-known dual-listed beauty and skincare group in Asia, Natural Beauty Bio-Technology Limited ("Natural Beauty"), together with its subsidiaries (the "Group"; Hong Kong stock code: 00157), today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 ("Review Period"). The Group's revenue increased by 52.4%, exceeding HK$538 million. And profit surged by 110.2% to HK$10.58 million, marking a fundamental turnaround from a net loss of HK$103.6 million in FY2024.Natural Beauty Fengxian Smart FactoryCore Figures Reflects Remarkable Transformation SuccessMainland China remained the Group's key growth engine. In 2025, revenue in the PRC market increased by 74.7% from HK$255 million to HK$446 million, accounting for 82.7% of the Group's total revenue. Specifically, product sales in the PRC market grew by 73.4% to HK$438.3 million, while the self-owned stores income soared by 208.9% to HK$7.5 million, reflecting balanced and high-quality expansion across both segments.High-Quality Expansion of Store NetworkThe Group has achieved high-quality expansion of its store network. As at December 31, 2025, the number of franchisees and points of sale reached 2,070, representing a significant increase from 1,768 in 2024. Among them, 425 new franchisees were opened, and the number of directly operated stores also increased to 23. During the Review Period, the total number of new stores opened by the Group rose by 116 year-on-year, further improving the store network and unlocking the brand's growth potential.Strategic Drivers Deliver Leapfrog GrowthDr. Lei Chien, Chairperson of Natural Beauty, stated: "2025 marks a pivotal founding year for Natural Beauty to achieve structural breakthroughs. The Group has steadily expanded its diversified business portfolio and entered a new phase of high-quality growth. The full implementation of our core strategy of 'Al Beauty Technology, Holistic Health’ strategy has driven the Group's performance to achieve leapfrog growth. Fully embracing large AI model technology, the Group has integrated it across the entire value chain—from production and supply chain forecasting to customer after-sales service. We are committed to building an authoritative AI-driven skin health testing platform, which, through training on millions of samples, provides consumers with precise skincare solutions and offers franchisees more effective operational strategies."Mr. Cheng Chi-chung, Chief Executive Officer of the Group, stated: "Over the past year, centering on the Group's core strategy of ' Al Beauty Technology, Holistic Health', we have continuously promoted the comprehensive upgrade of the enterprise's operational system, transforming Natural Beauty from a traditional beauty brand into a technology-driven beauty ecosystem platform. The AI data system is gradually becoming a crucial support for the Group's operational decision-making. From consumer demand insights and product R&D directions to in-store service design and membership management, we are progressively forming a data-driven operational system."Fengxian Smart Factory New Exhibition CenterClear Future Development BlueprintLooking ahead, the Group will continue to implement the " Al Technology, Beauty Industry, Holistic Health" strategy. Relying on strategic cooperation with Baidu and Fudan University International Finance School, we will deeply explore the core empowering role of AI technology in product R&D, digital store construction, smart marketing, and automated management system upgrades. The Group plans to achieve high-speed revenue growth this year and become a leading enterprise in the beauty and wellness industry across Mainland China and the Taiwan region.About Natural Beauty Bio-Technology Limited (Hong Kong stock code:00157)A China’s leading listed beauty and skincare brand established in 1972, has championed its core philosophy of "Natural Beauty Is True Beauty" for 55 years. Driven by its "AI Technology, Beauty Industry, Holistic Health" integrated strategy, the brand operates a global network of over 2,093 outlets. As a Chinese-origin transnational biotech pioneer, Natural Beauty continues to propel innovation in the cosmetics and skincare sector.Media enquiriesStrategic Financial Relations LimitedMandy GoTel: +852 2864 4812Email: mandy.go@sprg.com.hkMaggie ZhangTel: +852 2114 4903Email: maggie.zhang@sprg.com.hkWebsite:http://www.sprg.com.hk Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: emer
Xiamen C&D Inc.’s New Five-Year Strategic Plan Released, Aiming to Accelerate Globalization
Xiamen,China, Mar 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - IIn January 2026, Xiamen C&D Inc. (stock code: 600153.SH) officially released its 2026–2030 strategic plan for its supply chain operations. Over the next five years, the company will focus on three strategic goals: improving economic efficiency, strengthening market position, and expanding overseas scale. It will also enhance five core competencies: specialization, internationalization, digitalization, foresight, and resource capabilities. Through these efforts, Xiamen C&D Inc. aims to shift from a scale-driven model toward a dual-engine growth model powered by efficiency and innovation.According to the plan, Xiamen C&D Inc. will focus its efforts on the following five areas. :(1) Stick to specialized operations and promote differentiated management;(2) Accelerate its international footprint while deepening localized operations;(3) Strengthen digital and intelligent capabilities to empower the supply chain ecosystem;(4) Enhance endogenous foresight and optimize overall resource capabilities;(5) Reinforce innovation-driven development and cultivate a second growth curve to inject new momentum for the company’s long-term growth.Over the next five years, Xiamen C&D Inc. will consolidate its operations through specialization, expand growth potential through internationalization, improve efficiency through digitalization, address cyclical challenges with internal foresight, and reinforce competitiveness through resource capabilities. By doing so, the company will strive to move from "domestically excellent" to "internationally leading" and achieve high-quality development.Media contactCompany Name: Xiamen C&D Inc.City, State, Country: Xiamen, ChinaContact Person: Marketing TeamWebsite: https://www.chinacnd.com/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
Lucasfilm Denies What Could Be the Most Redeeming Star Wars Twist
Upon Disney+'s debut in November 2019, one topic dominated conversations: Baby Yoda, officially known as The Child. Despite primarily serving as a cute MacGuffin, Baby Yoda became ubiquitous, appearing on merchandise, fan art, and bizarre social media posts featuring "families" of Grogu figurines. Today, Baby Yoda—now called Grogu—is preparing for his big-screen debut in The Mandalorian & Grogu. However, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy has indicated that a highly anticipated milestone—Grogu speaking for the first time—will not occur in this film. Yet might this be a deliberate deception? Grogu has matured considerably in just the short time audiences have known him. | LucasfilmThough Grogu appears infantile, he is actually older than Din Djarin, having been born in the same year as Anakin Skywalker. His developmental delay stems from his species' extraordinary longevity—Yoda died at 900, making 50 seem insignificant. Nevertheless, Grogu has shown remarkable growth since his introduction, evolving from a tiny creature in a floating pod to a partially trained Force wielder capable of agile movement. The film's trailer introduced a new dimension: Grogu now constantly babbles like a young child. Could this signal his first spoken words in the movie? Kathleen Kennedy says no. In an interview with Variety at the Golden Reel Awards, Kennedy stated Grogu is "another perfect example of a character that has to emote and you have to feel connected to, and he never speaks a word," affirming this will remain unchanged in the upcoming release. Yaddle demonstrates how Grogu might theoretically speak. | LucasfilmFor those curious, Grogu's speech—if it emerges—won't mirror Yoda's distinctive syntax. Tales of the Jedi established that Yaddle spoke standard Basic, indicating Yoda's speech pattern was a personal trait rather than a species-wide characteristic. Having spent nearly a decade with Din Djarin and presumably decades in the Jedi Temple as a youngling, Grogu would likely adopt the speech patterns of his companions—Din Djarin, Luke Skywalker, or his former instructor Kelleran Beq. Naturally, this might be intentional misdirection. From a linguistic standpoint, word formation naturally follows babbling, and what theatrical moment would be more impactful than Grogu's inaugural words? While realistically he might simply call Din "Papa," imagine a post-credits scene where Grogu gazes at his guardian and declares, "This is the way"—a revelation worth protecting at all costs. The Mandalorian & Grogu arrives in cinemas on May 22.
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by: grit
Fujitsu launches Japan’s first defense tech open innovation program
KAWASAKI, Japan, Mar 10, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited today announced the launch of the Fujitsu Accelerator Program for Defense Tech, a collaborative program aimed at fostering innovation in the defense sector. The program will be implemented as part of an ongoing research commission from Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA).Fujitsu was contracted by ATLA in fiscal year 2025 to research an AI that functions as support staff through defense multi-AI agents based on an existing rapid decision-making experimental device prototype. The research requires the development of agentic AI utilizing open innovation with Japanese startup companies and other entities. The objectives include accelerating decision-making, enhancing information gathering and analysis capabilities, reducing personnel workload, and achieving labor savings. Through this program, Fujitsu will accelerate the development of useful technologies in the defense domain.With the rapid advancement of science and technology, the global security environment is undergoing significant changes. Cutting-edge digital technologies such as AI and quantum computing are becoming crucial elements in strengthening defense capabilities.In this commissioned research, Fujitsu aims to enhance and accelerate the provision of information useful for decision-making by utilizing multi-AI agents that coordinate multiple AIs to derive autonomous conclusions. As a result, Fujitsu seeks to acquire the capabilities of AI that functions as staff to support decision-making.In promoting this commissioned research, Fujitsu will actively apply its AI technologies and defense domain expertise, cultivated through years of research and development, along with the advanced technologies and innovative ideas held by startup companies in non-defense industrial fields. Through this co-creation, Fujitsu aims to create further value in the development of multi-AI agents, contributing to dual-use, i.e., technology for both civilian and military applications, as advocated by the Ministry of Defense.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.fujitsu Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
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by: jenn
Rumor: Resident Evil Film to Feature Major Departure From Games
CapcomThe Resident Evil franchise is currently experiencing heightened interest from both veteran enthusiasts and those new to the series, thanks to the success of Resident Evil Requiem and the 30th anniversary of the original game. Although the series has historically struggled in film adaptations, a new reboot slated for later this year might finally alter that perception. Following his rise to prominence in modern horror with his first two celebrated movies, Barbarian and Weapons, filmmaker Zach Cregger is now focusing his creative vision on Raccoon City.Details about Cregger's reboot have remained largely confidential, though the producer has confirmed it will present an independent interpretation not bound to the games' established canon. However, that veil of secrecy may have recently been broken, as the screenplay for the upcoming movie has allegedly surfaced online. The response from the broader Resident Evil community suggests the material is both surprising and innovative—for better or worse—featuring a pivotal deviation that distinguishes it from all previous film adaptations and game entries.Should these rumors prove accurate, audiences will experience an intimate viewpoint on the infection's true nature. | CapcomThe Resident Evil screenplay appeared on 4chan over the weekend before proliferating across other online platforms such as Reddit and Twitter. While skepticism about the document's legitimacy would be natural, its complete removal from the internet suggests there may be truth to it. According to remarks and conversations from users and fans who reviewed the screenplay before its deletion, the content appears consistent with previously disclosed details about the movie—namely that it takes place in Raccoon City and centers on Austin Abrams portraying a medical courier called Bryan. Beyond these points, the leaked information takes a dramatic shift.While this information warrants caution, a summary of the screenplay posted on ResetEra describes Bryan as being stranded in Raccoon City while transporting what he thinks are essential organs, desperately seeking an escape route to reunite with his expectant spouse. His situation worsens considerably when he's attacked and bitten by a contaminated canine, transforming the entire narrative into a desperate race against time as Bryan searches for a method to halt his T-virus contamination.These have been the franchise's most persistent threats for three decades. | CapcomAlthough numerous characters throughout the franchise have contracted the T-virus, the primary protagonists have typically either received treatment or possessed some form of resistance that preserves their humanity—often accompanied by advantageous mutations resembling superhuman abilities. No main series game has ever offered a first-person viewpoint of an ordinary citizen grappling with infection, an individual lacking the means to combat the virus effectively. By delivering an unprecedented, ground-level portrayal of the Raccoon City incident, Cregger can leave his distinctive mark on the property by depicting the gradual physical and mental deterioration caused by the T-virus directly.In Weapons, one of the film's most subtly disturbing elements involved observing young Alex's parents gradually deteriorate due to the enchantment placed upon them. Even though Resident Evil's zombie contagion operates on entirely different principles, an emerging horror visionary like Cregger will undoubtedly embrace the heartbreaking cruelty of our protagonist's transformation into something grotesque and inhuman—a concept the games themselves have never truly explored with a playable figure. Though some fans remain disheartened that the movie will pursue a standalone narrative, the prospect of experiencing the T-virus's effects through a novel and frighteningly personal lens offers compelling anticipation for Zach Cregger's Resident Evil when it arrives in theaters later this year.Resident Evil is scheduled for release on September 18, 2026.
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by: nicole
Trump Calls It an Honor to Protect Strait of Hormuz for China and Other Nations
President Donald Trump stated he aims to maintain the Strait of Hormuz’s openness, calling it an "honor" to do so to assist other countries dependent on this critical Middle Eastern waterway.Trump was addressing reporters in Florida on Monday when questioned about the global energy bottleneck, which has faced disruptions due to ongoing attacks between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Measuring approximately 21 miles wide at its narrowest, the Strait of Hormuz lies between Iran and Oman and transports around 20 million barrels of oil daily plus roughly one-fifth of the world’s liquefied natural gas—making it a high-priority target during regional conflicts."We’re truly aiding China and other nations here since they source much of their energy from the strait," Trump remarked. "Our relationship with China is strong. It’s my honor to take this on."Trump is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month. As he highlighted the U.S.’s new energy partnership with Venezuela, he pointed out that China receives its oil via the strait. "I’m saying we’re doing this for other parts of the globe, including nations like China," he stated. "They obtain much of their oil through the strait.""We have an excellent relationship with President Xi Jinping and China," he added. "I’ll be traveling there soon, and we’re defending the world from what these fanatics are attempting—and doing so very successfully, I might note."Trump also announced the U.S. will lift all oil-related sanctions on certain countries to help lower energy prices during the Middle East conflict.Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps went on state TV and pledged it would "not permit the export of a single liter of oil."Subsequently, Trump restated his stance on the strait in a heated Truth Social post."If Iran takes any action to block oil flow in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States will strike them TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they’ve been hit before. What’s more, we’ll target easily destroyable sites that will make it nearly impossible for Iran to ever rebuild as a nation—Death, Fire, and Fury will be unleashed on them—but I hope and pray this doesn’t come to pass!," he wrote."This is a gift from the United States to China and all nations that rely heavily on the Strait of Hormuz. I hope this gesture is deeply appreciated. Thank you for your attention to this issue!"