HONG KONG, Apr 1, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - March 31 2026, VCREDIT Holdings Limited ("VCREDIT" or the "Group"; Stock Code: 2003.HK), a leading technology-driven consumer financial service provider in China, today announced its audited consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the "Year").During the Year, as the external environment remained complex and challenging, the Group dynamically optimized its strategies and strengthened risk management to enhance operational efficiency. It also consolidated its business framework, committed to building a secure and compliant digital financial ecosystem. The Group adopted a prudent strategic approach, advancing steadily while dynamically assessing new market opportunities.During the Year, the Group's loan origination volume in the Chinese mainland reached RMB58.45 billion. Cumulative registered users increased to 171 million, representing an increase of 8.2% from the end of 2024. The Group's total income remained relatively stable at RMB3,870.9 million.Prudently Optimizing Business Structure and Consolidating High-Quality Customer BaseFacing changes in the macroeconomic environment, the Group strengthened risk control and cost optimization, advancing its business prudently and gradually shifting its focus toward relatively higher-quality customer segments and more sustainable business models. By deepening ecosystem partnerships with multiple industry platforms, the Group refined its end-to-end intelligent customer acquisition and operation systems, and continued to optimize its funding partnership structure to enhance business resilience.Building upon its continuously enhanced technological capabilities, the Group focused on maintaining its base of high-quality users, intensifying collaborations with premium platforms across various sectors, including a leading comprehensive retail e-commerce provider, online travel service platforms, smart devices companies, and a map service provider. By establishing an intelligent outreach system integrating "smart SMS and AI-powered outbound calls," the Group created a full-cycle customer acquisition closed loop, encompassing precise screening, layered outreach, and efficient conversion.In operating its existing customer base, the Group implemented a two-dimensional strategy combining willingness models with risk models to execute refined and differentiated operations and services for various customer segments. Adhering to a "customer-centric" service philosophy, the Group fully integrated consumer rights protection into the entire product and service lifecycle. During the Year, repeat borrowers accounted for 80.7% of the total loan origination volume for its business in the Chinese mainland, demonstrating sustained user loyalty.Upgrading Technology-Driven Capabilities with AI Empowering Multiple Business ScenariosTechnology serves as a core strategic driver for the Group's sustainable business development. In 2025, centered on artificial intelligence (AI), the Group continued to advance the evolution from tool-based usage to systematic intelligence. Through the integration of causal inference algorithms into its "Hummingbird" intelligent risk control platform, the Group focused on enhancing risk identification capabilities and model stability within complex customer segments and volatile market environments. The application of the AI-powered marketing robot effectively contributed to improvements in customer acquisition conversion and customer value.Simultaneously, intelligent agent technologies, such as the "Digital Operations Engineer," have extended automation capabilities across the entire R&D and operational lifecycle. Currently, approximately 30% of code generation and standardized operational procedures are automated, solidifying the efficiency foundation. To address long-term technology trends, the Group has initiated specialized research on financial vertical large language models in collaboration with scientific research institutions and continues to explore technological integration with traditional finance and the Web3.0 ecosystem. The Group's research and development expenses for the Year increased by 43.9% year-on-year, reflecting the Company's continued investment in technological capabilities.Steadily Advancing International Exploration and Expanding New Business HorizonsWhile deepening its core consumer finance business in the Chinese mainland, the Group continued to advance its strategic expansion into new markets. Its Hong Kong business, "CreFIT," consistently deepened collaborations with high-quality platforms to broaden its customer base and launched a loan service featuring instant approval via WhatsApp, seeking to embed financial services into users' daily scenarios. Meanwhile, the Group formally entered the Indonesian market by launching its licensed Information Technology-Based Joint Funding Services (LPBBTI), marking an important milestone. Leveraging its proven operational experience, the Group looks forward to creating sustainable value for shareholders of the Group.Outlook: Focusing on Quality and SustainabilityLooking ahead, VCREDIT noted that the macroeconomic landscape and industry regulatory framework are evolving dynamically. The Group will continue to leverage its established capabilities in risk management and technology, while rationally embracing industry trends and innovations. Future strategies will focus on: refining and adapting credit solutions to serve high-quality customers; improving operational efficiency and risk management capabilities by continuously advancing AI technologies in core business scenarios; reinforcing long-term partnerships with licensed financial institutions and premium cross-industry scenario partners; and cautiously evaluating potential investment opportunities, pursuing appropriate arrangements as they align with long-term goals to support steady and high-quality business development. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

Vancouver, BC, Apr 1, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Thunderstruck Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AWE) (OTC: THURF) (the "Company" or "Thunderstruck") is pleased to announce that Zhaojin International Gold Co. Ltd. (SZSE: 000506) ("Zhaojin"), a Shenzhen Stock Exchange-listed gold mining company and the owner and operator of Fiji's Vatukoula Gold Mine, intends to make a strategic investment in the Company, marking Zhaojin's first investment in an exploration company.The proposed investment underscores growing strategic interest in Thunderstruck's highly prospective mineral portfolio in Fiji and is expected to strengthen the Company's ability to advance its 2026 exploration priorities through alignment with a well-capitalized and experienced mining group with an established operating presence in the country.Thunderstruck's portfolio includes district-scale exploration opportunities prospective for gold, silver, zinc and copper, and the Company believes Zhaojin's investment represents a significant validation of both its asset base and long-term growth strategy."Thunderstruck is uniquely positioned in Fiji with a portfolio that offers both scale and discovery potential, and this partnership will meaningfully enhance how we move those assets forward." stated Bryce Bradley, Thunderstruck's Chief Executive Officer. "Our objective is to build long-term value through disciplined exploration, strong technical execution and strategic partnerships, and this investment is an important step in that process. Notably, within the first year following Zhaojin's acquisition of the Vatukoula Gold Mine, the mine was successfully restored to profitability, demonstrating the operational capability that we're looking for in a partner."Terms of InvestmentZhaojin, or its affiliates, will, directly or indirectly, enter into a subscription agreement (the "Subscription Agreement") for such number of common shares of the Company that will represent approximately 19.99% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company following completion of the investment (the "Offering").The proposed investment will consist of 14,207,134 common shares of the Company at a price of $0.11 per common share, for aggregate gross proceeds of CDN$1,562,784.74.The net proceeds from the Offering are expected to be used to fund the Company's 2026 exploration programs on its mineral prospects in Fiji, as well as for general working capital purposes. No finder's fees are payable in connection with the Offering.The Offering remains subject to the execution of definitive documentation, including the Subscription Agreement, and is also subject to receipt of all required approvals, including approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable Chinese regulatory authorities.In connection with the proposed strategic investment, the Company and Zhaojin also intend to enter into an investor rights agreement, pursuant to which, subject to certain conditions and ownership thresholds, Zhaojin will be granted certain rights, including the right to appoint one director to the Company's board of directors and to designate a Vice President, Exploration for the Company.About ZhaojinZhaojin International Gold Co. Ltd. (SZSE: 000506) is a Shenzhen Stock Exchange-listed mining company headquartered in Jinan City, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China. In Fiji, Zhaojin is the owner and operator of the Vatukoula Gold Mine, a historically significant gold operation that has been in continuous production for over 90 years and currently supports a workforce of more than 1,300 employees and contractors.Zhaojin's controlling shareholder is Zhaojin Group, a vertically integrated gold mining enterprise with operations across mineral exploration, mining, processing, smelting, refining, gold bar production and gold jewelry manufacturing. Zhaojin Group is among China's leading gold producers with reported total consolidated gold production of approximately 600,000-700,000 ounces in 2025.Warrant ExtensionIn other news, the Company announces that it intends to extend the expiry date of an aggregate of 536,666 outstanding share purchase warrants by two years.The warrants were originally issued on July 7, 2023, and currently expire on July 7, 2026. Subject to approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company intends to extend the expiry date of the warrants to July 7, 2028. All other terms of the warrants will remain unchanged, including the original exercise price of $0.20 per warrant.About Thunderstruck ResourcesThunderstruck Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the discovery of high value copper-gold porphyry, gold-silver epithermal, and VMS base-metal deposits on the main island of Viti Levu in Fiji.Fiji has a long history of mining with over 90 years of activity at the prolific Vatukoula Gold Mine alongside several other advanced development projects and mines including Tuvatu (Lion One Metals), Indicated Resources of 1.00 Mt @ 8.48 g/t Au (274,600 oz), Inferred Resources of 1.33 Mt @ 9.0 g/t Au (384,000 oz) (Tuvatu-PEA-Update-NI-43-101) and Namosi (Newmont), Proven, Measured and Indicated Resources of 1.8Bt at 0.35% Cu and 0.11 g/t Au (6.4M oz Au and 6.3Mt Cu) (Newcrest Annual Mineral Resources Update, June 2022).The Company provides investors with exposure to a diverse portfolio of exploration stage projects with potential for zinc, copper, gold and silver in a politically safe and stable jurisdiction. Thunderstruck trades on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the symbol "AWE" and United States OTC under the symbol "THURF."For additional information, please contact:Bryce Bradley, Chief Executive OfficerEmail: bryce@thunderstruck.caP: +1 604 349-8119or, visit our website: http://www.thunderstruck.caNeither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Although Thunderstruck believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Thunderstruck's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Thunderstruck undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/290635 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - GOME Retail Holdings Limited (StockCode: 493.HK, "GOME Retail" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries,the "Group") today announced its annual results for the year ended 31December 2025. In 2025, facing a complex external operating environment,the Group stayed true to its mission and vision of "Better homes and lifestylesthrough GOME", and focused its efforts on the three strategic pillars of DebtResolution, Asset-light Transformation and New Business Cultivation.Bolstered by the national policies of Expanding Domestic Demand andBoosting Consumption, the Group achieved a notable upgrade in operatingquality and accelerated the release of outcomes from its strategictransformation, laying a solid foundation for returning to the track of recovery.Operating Performance Bottoms Out and Rebounds, Debt Resolution Achieves BreakthroughsIn 2025, the Group's overall operating performance bottomed out andrebounded, recording a total revenue of RMB 538 million, representing anincrease of 13.50% year-on-year. The loss attributable to owners of the parentwas RMB 5,944 million, a substantial narrowing of 48.89% compared with thesame period in 2024. During the period, the Group optimized resourceallocation by focusing on core operations and strengthening strategictransformation. Both selling and distribution expenses and administrativeexpenses decreased substantially, while operational efficiency improvedsimultaneously. In terms of debt resolution, the Group reached convertiblebond repayment agreements and advanced diversified arrangements such asdebt-to-equity swaps with major creditors and partners. It optimized theasset-liability structure without increasing cash flow pressure, effectivelymitigated risks at the subsidiary level, stabilized cooperative relationships withcore creditors and the supply chain, provided a replicable demonstration pathfor subsequent risk disposal, and gradually restored corporate credit.Asset-light Transformation Gathers Pace, Regional Operations Fully RecoverThe Group firmly implemented the strategic principle of Asset-light,Operation-focused, Strong Governance and Replicable, centered on the coreobjectives of Sales, Revenue and Positive Cash Flow, and built a synergisticstructure of Online Sales-oriented, Offline Exhibition-assisted under the threemain lines of Online, Offline and Supply Chain + Marketing. Throughstandardized training, supply chain empowerment and a digital managementplatform, the Group rapidly promoted the large-scale development of franchisebusiness; it innovated quasi-franchise models such as City Agency + ExternalPromoter Commission + Franchise Sub-franchise, and successfully restoredoperations in key regions including Beijing, Shenyang and Harbin. As at theend of 2025, the Group's offline stores focused on efficient operations in corecities, with resources concentrated in first-tier markets, and operating qualityimproved steadily.New Businesses Driven by Dual Engines to Cultivate New GrowthDriversBased on industry trends and policy guidance, the Group actively cultivatednew growth drivers, with a key focus on the layout of instant retail and AI retail.In the instant retail sector, in response to the national policies on innovationand upgrading of the retail industry, the Group plans to launch the pilot ofGOME Instant Warehouse in first-tier cities, prime business districts andsecondary locations through an asset-light cooperation model, build acommunity instant retail network with the synergy of In-store + Home Delivery,and tap into the trillion-yuan instant retail market. In the AI retail sector, theGroup introduced an AI intelligent engine to empower the full-chain operation,and meanwhile planned to introduce AI home appliance products, buildintelligent robot experience stores, and promote the digital and intelligenttransformation of the retail business.OUTLOOK AND PROSPECTSThe management of GOME Retail stated: Despite the hard-won progressachieved in 2025, the Company still faces challenges in fully emerging fromdifficulties and returning to steady growth. Looking ahead to 2026,management maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook and will continue to:1. Prioritise risk resolution: Debt resolution remains a top priority formanagement. We will maintain open communication with creditors, pursuediversified solutions, and strive to fundamentally reduce financial burdens andrestore a healthy balance sheet.2. Drive strategy execution with focus: We will steadfastly implement ourasset-light development strategy. Online, we will build a closed-loopomni-channel matrix integrating internal and external platforms, driven byblockbuster products and comprehensive traffic aggregation. Offline, we willcontinue to optimise and rapidly replicate our franchise network, with anemphasis on expanding community stores and city experience centres.3. Actively capture policy and market opportunities: 2026 marks the first yearof the nation ’ s 15th Five-Year Plan. We will closely align with and leveragenational policies aimed at expanding domestic demand and boostingconsumption, deepening the recovery of our core retail business. At the same time, we will strategically invest resources to explore and scale newbusinesses, cultivating medium – to long-term growth momentum.4. Strengthen lean management and synergy across the Group: We willdeepen lean management practices, optimise our cost structure, and enhancesynergies between online and offline operations and across businesssegments to improve overall operational efficiency and risk resilience.Management is confident that, with a clear strategy, disciplined execution, andthe dedication of all employees, GOME can seize the historic opportunitiespresented by the recovery and upgrading of the consumer market, overcomecurrent challenges, and steadily fulfill its commitment to creating long-termvalue for shareholders and society.About GOME Retail Holdings LimitedGOME Retail Holdings Limited was listed on the Stock Exchange of HongKong Limited in July 2004 (Stock Code: 493). Founded in China in 1987, theGOME Group is committed to building a leading technology-driven,experience-oriented, entertainment-style and socialized home life technologyretail service provider in China. Upholding the Home · Life strategy, theGroup takes the retail of electrical appliances and consumer electronicproducts as its core business and builds a full-category closed-loop ecosystem.For more details, please visit the Company's website: www.gome.com.hkThis press release is issued by EVER BLOOM (HK) COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTS GROUP LIMITED on behalf of GOME Retail Holdings Limited. For enquiries, please contact:EVER BLOOM (HK) COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTS GROUP LIMITEDMs. Julia Liang / Mr. Adonis LiangTel: (852) 3468 8944 Fax: (852) 2111 1103Email: julia.liang@everbloom.com.cn / adonis.liang@everbloom.com.cn Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

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

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

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