Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 24, 2026) - TrustBIX Inc. (TSXV: TBIX) ("TrustBIX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of two non-binding Letters of Intent ("LOI"), both dated February 20, 2026, to acquire Zen Cyber Ltd. ("Zen Cyber"), a private Canadian company, and xFacilitator Inc., operating as WILDCARD MSP ("WILDCARD"), a private Canadian Company. These LOI's are intended to allow TrustBIX and its subsidiaries to expand their abilities to support agricultural businesses. ...

Core Insights - Cibus is participating in a significant research project funded by the UK Government to develop durable resistance to Light Leaf Spot disease in oilseed rape, which has caused yield losses of up to £300 million in recent years [1][3][5] Group 1: Project Overview - The project is part of the Farming Innovation Programme, with Defra investing in mid-stage precision breeding projects to enhance the resilience and productivity of UK agriculture [2][5] - Cibus will utilize its proprietary Rapid Trait Development System™ to create precise gene edits in elite oilseed rape breeding lines, aiming to combat Light Leaf Spot disease [3][4] Group 2: Collaboration and Goals - The LLS-ERASED project involves a consortium of 12 industry and academic partners, targeting the UK's most destructive oilseed rape disease to deliver high-yielding varieties with durable, multi-disease resistance [3][4] - The project aligns with the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023, positioning England as a global hub for gene-edited crop development [4] Group 3: Funding and Support - The Defra Farming Innovation Programme, in partnership with Innovate UK, will provide at least £21.5 million in funding for 15 innovation projects aimed at developing sustainable crops and supporting farmers [5]

Company Closures and Layoffs - CNH Industrial America is closing its Burlington, Iowa plant, resulting in 209 layoffs by May 2026 due to lower backhoe demand [1] - Continental Tire of America will close its Barnesville, Georgia manufacturing plant, laying off 235 employees by the end of 2026, citing long-standing cost-competitiveness issues [2] - Alton Steel Inc. will cease operations in Alton, Illinois, impacting approximately 253 employees, due to structural challenges in the domestic steel industry [3] - Macy's Inc. will close its Owasso, Oklahoma fulfillment center by the end of March, resulting in 993 layoffs as part of a supply chain modernization effort [4] - King Delivery LLC is closing operations in Brooklyn, New York, leading to 153 layoffs [6] - Fresenius USA Manufacturing will lay off 165 employees across three distribution centers due to the divestiture of parts of its logistics operation [7][8] - Kuehne+Nagel Inc. plans to close its Locust Grove, Georgia logistics operation, resulting in 153 layoffs [9] - Legacy Supply Chain is laying off 129 employees across five California locations [10] - American Eagle Outfitters is shutting down its La Palma fulfillment center, eliminating 108 jobs [11][12] - FTI Buyer LLC will close its Cincinnati facility, laying off 104 employees [13] - First Brands Group is closing its Arlington facility, affecting 88 employees [14] - Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. plans to close its Tall Timbers Mold facility in Findlay, Ohio, resulting in 85 layoffs [15] - Lighteum Medical is laying off 83 employees at its San Diego facility [16] - Plug Power Inc. filed a WARN notice for a mass layoff at its Houston facility, affecting 74 employees [17] - Great Lakes Coca-Cola Distribution will lay off 62 employees in Lansing, Michigan [18] - Waddington North America is closing a facility in Bremen, Georgia, eliminating 49 jobs [19] - Turf Care Supply Corp. will close its blending department, eliminating 46 jobs [20] - Automated Harvesting LLC is closing its Yuma operations, laying off 46 workers [21] - H4 Logistics LLC is closing its Kenosha facility, resulting in 41 layoffs [22] - Tekni-Plex plans to close its Milwaukee facility, impacting 39 employees [23] - GXO Logistics will close its Romeoville facility, laying off 32 workers [25] Industry Trends - Weak consumer demand, excess capacity, contract losses, and network consolidation are leading shippers and logistics providers to shrink operations [5] - Manufacturers tied to industrial freight are cutting output amid slower order volumes and tighter capital conditions, reflecting a freight market struggling to regain momentum [5]

Core Viewpoint - Guangdong is leveraging innovative approaches to address the "last mile" challenge in agricultural technology promotion, with the Guangdong Seed Expo serving as a key platform to showcase agricultural achievements and facilitate technology transfer [25][36][60]. Group 1: Agricultural Technology Promotion - The Guangdong Seed Expo has expanded its reach from 11 to 19 sub-venues by 2025, covering 15 cities and demonstrating over 5,000 new varieties and more than 40 supporting technologies [37][38]. - The event has facilitated the introduction of over 10,000 new varieties and the selection of nearly 500 suitable varieties, addressing practical agricultural production needs [30][31]. - The promotion of agricultural technology is crucial for enhancing public service, accelerating the transformation of scientific achievements, and driving rural industrial prosperity [32][34]. Group 2: Integration and Collaboration - A three-tiered collaborative mechanism has been established, involving provincial, municipal, and county levels to enhance agricultural technology promotion [26][45]. - The integration of various agricultural sectors, including seed breeding, planting, processing, and branding, is being emphasized to create a comprehensive development model [22][23]. - The Guangdong Seed Expo serves as a demonstration field for the integration of agricultural machinery and practices, as well as a testing ground for smart agriculture [51][60]. Group 3: Regional Development and Economic Impact - The promotion of high-value specialty crops, such as cherry tomatoes, has led to significant market success in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area [23]. - The agricultural technology promotion system has contributed to a diversified regional service model, enhancing the overall agricultural industry in Guangdong [75]. - The integration of digital agriculture and smart farming technologies is being prioritized to improve efficiency and productivity in the agricultural sector [62][70]. Group 4: Training and Capacity Building - A multi-layered training system is being implemented to enhance the skills and capabilities of agricultural practitioners, focusing on both technical and managerial aspects [145][146]. - The training programs are designed to address the specific needs of various agricultural sectors, including specialty crops and livestock [152][158]. - The emphasis on talent cultivation is seen as essential for the sustainable development of rural industries and the overall agricultural landscape in Guangdong [144][145].

Core Viewpoint - Origin Agritech Ltd. reported a decline in revenue for the fiscal year 2025, primarily due to equipment upgrades and a reduction in external seed production services, while also highlighting significant partnerships and advancements in research and development [1][4][5]. Business Accomplishments and Highlights for the Year Ended September 30, 2025 - The company established a three-way partnership with China Agricultural University and the Beijing Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences to enhance corn "smart plant type" improvement and innovative variety development [5]. - Origin signed cooperation agreements with 12 agricultural companies at the Sanya International Seed Industry Scientist Conference [5]. - The launch of the "Golden Harvest Club" aimed to strengthen relationships within its distribution ecosystem [5]. - Four new corn varieties were launched, with Jinqiao 8 receiving approval for introduction in five provinces [5]. Financial Results - Revenue for fiscal year 2025 was RMB 91.3 million (US$12.8 million), a decrease from RMB 113.4 million (US$16.2 million) in fiscal year 2024 [4]. - Total operating expenses increased to RMB 64.2 million (US$9.0 million) from RMB 52.7 million (US$7.5 million) in fiscal year 2024 [6]. - The net loss from continuing operations was RMB 58.0 million (US$8.2 million), compared to a net income of RMB 18.7 million (US$2.7 million) in fiscal year 2024 [7]. Liquidity and Cash Flow - As of September 30, 2025, cash and cash equivalents were approximately RMB 15.9 million (US$2.2 million), an increase from RMB 8.4 million (US$1.2 million) in the previous year [8]. - Net cash used in operating activities was RMB 22.9 million (US$3.2 million), compared to RMB 15.0 million (US$2.1 million) in fiscal year 2024 [9]. - Net cash provided by financing activities increased significantly to RMB 44.3 million (US$6.2 million) from RMB 4.5 million (US$0.6 million) in fiscal year 2024 [10]. Management Commentary - The CEO emphasized that fiscal year 2025 was a year of recovery, with a focus on restoring team capabilities and infrastructure, and outlined a three-stage strategic plan for future growth [11].

Core Viewpoint - The 24th Guangdong Seed Industry Expo showcased significant advancements in agricultural technology, highlighting the integration of smart agriculture solutions by leading companies and academic institutions in Guangdong [2][3][4]. Group 1: Event Overview - The Guangdong Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs hosted the 24th Guangdong Seed Industry Expo in Guangzhou from December 11 to 13 [2]. - The event included an Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Achievement Exhibition, demonstrating the fruitful results of agricultural technology development in Guangdong [3]. Group 2: Key Participants and Innovations - Leading companies such as Huawei, DJI, and XAG, along with 16 academic institutions including Sun Yat-sen University and South China Agricultural University, presented pioneering achievements in smart agriculture [3][4]. - Innovations showcased included automated systems for fish feeding, AI-assisted breeding tools, and smart pest monitoring solutions, indicating a shift towards more automated and data-driven agricultural practices [19][21][27]. Group 3: Future of Agriculture - The exhibition illustrated a vision for the future of agriculture, emphasizing the development of a new ecological model for smart agriculture that integrates aerial, terrestrial, and digital technologies [11][13]. - The advancements in agricultural technology are positioned to empower China's journey towards becoming a strong agricultural nation [11].

Core Viewpoint - Cibus, Inc. has announced a public offering of 13,333,333 shares of its Class A Common Stock at a price of $1.50 per share, aiming to raise approximately $20 million for working capital and corporate purposes [1][3]. Group 1: Offering Details - The public offering price is set at $1.50 per share, with members of Cibus' Board of Directors purchasing 1,000,000 shares at this price [1]. - The underwriter has a 30-day option to purchase an additional 1,999,999 shares to cover over-allotments [2]. - Gross proceeds from the offering are expected to be around $20 million, potentially increasing to $23 million if the underwriter fully exercises its option [3]. Group 2: Use of Proceeds - The net proceeds from the offering will be utilized for working capital and general corporate purposes, including funding the development of weed management traits in rice and covering accrued professional expenses for advisory services [3]. Group 3: Company Overview - Cibus is a leading agricultural technology company focused on developing and licensing plant traits to seed companies, utilizing high-throughput gene-editing technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability in major global row crops [7].

Group 1 - The meeting emphasized the importance of agricultural modernization through technological innovation, aligning with the directives from Xi Jinping regarding rural work and the development of a strong agricultural province in Jiangsu [1][2] - The provincial government aims to integrate research, manufacturing, and promotion in key areas such as seeds, agricultural machinery, and marine fisheries, focusing on a "five excellence" strategy to enhance agricultural productivity [2] - Policies and financial support will be optimized to encourage more enterprises and young individuals to engage in agricultural modernization, thereby strengthening the agricultural sector [2][3] Group 2 - The establishment of the joint innovation center for seed technology was announced, highlighting collaboration between agricultural research institutions and enterprises [3] - Expert lectures were conducted by academicians from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, indicating a focus on knowledge sharing and expertise in agricultural technology [3] - The meeting included experience sharing from various agricultural companies, showcasing successful practices and innovations in the sector [3]

Industry Overview - The AgTech and food innovation sector is experiencing significant transformation as technology adoption accelerates in farming, food production, and distribution, focusing on sustainability and efficiency [1] - Structural pressures such as climate volatility, labor constraints, and rising input costs are driving the need for innovation, with consumers increasingly favoring transparency and responsible sourcing [2] Digitization and Technological Advancements - A major trend is the digitization of farm operations, with precision agriculture, connected machinery, and real-time analytics optimizing yields while minimizing waste [3] - Companies like Deere & Company are central to this shift, utilizing GPS-guided equipment and data platforms to enhance productivity [3] Food Innovation Trends - Food innovation is evolving as producers adapt to health-oriented diets and sustainability considerations, influencing product development strategies [4] - Tyson Foods is investing in alternative proteins and automation to align its offerings with long-term consumer trends [4] Investment Opportunities - The AgTech and Food Innovation sector presents compelling investment opportunities as companies balance short-term volatility with long-term necessity [5] - Key players such as Corteva, Beyond Meat, and Ingredion are highlighted for their alignment with trends in precision agriculture and protein demand [6] Company Insights: Corteva - Corteva is positioned as a leader in AgTech, focusing on advanced seed genetics and crop protection solutions to meet rising demand driven by climate variability and pest pressures [7] - The company is rolling out new hybrids and investing in gene editing technologies to accelerate innovation [8] - Corteva's initiatives include developing environmentally aligned crop protection solutions, reinforcing its role in the AgTech ecosystem [9] Company Insights: Ingredion - Ingredion is focusing on clean-label ingredients and functional nutrition, responding to inflation and shifting consumer preferences [11] - The company's Texture & Healthful Solutions segment is experiencing solid growth, particularly in clean-label ingredients and protein fortification [12] - Ingredion is also advancing food innovation through targeted solution development and technology adoption, including sugar reduction technologies [13] Company Insights: Beyond Meat - Beyond Meat is adapting to changing protein consumption patterns by focusing on health, sustainability, and resource efficiency [14] - The company is enhancing the nutritional quality of its plant-based proteins, aligning with consumer demand for transparency [15] - Beyond Meat's innovation strategy includes faster product iteration through the Beyond Test Kitchen and ongoing supply-chain improvements [16]

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of six specialized agricultural technology demonstration bases in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture aims to enhance local agricultural development through advanced technology and collaboration with eastern regions, particularly Tianjin [2][3]. Group 1: Establishment of Technology Bases - Six specialized agricultural technology demonstration bases have been officially launched, including cold and drought-resistant edible mushroom research, high-efficiency yak breeding, and specialty crop product research [2]. - The collaboration is part of a broader initiative to leverage advanced agricultural technologies from eastern regions to support Gannan's agricultural development [2][3]. Group 2: Collaborative Efforts and Training - Gansu Province has implemented a comprehensive strategy for east-west technological collaboration, including annual work guidelines and training programs, resulting in the training of nearly 600 local technology talents [3][4]. - The establishment of a WeChat mini-program for "Tianjin Science Assistance" has created a technology service platform that integrates expert resources to provide remote support for farmers [4]. Group 3: Impact on Local Agriculture - The collaboration has led to the development of competitive agricultural clusters, such as "Tea Village" and "Potato Capital," significantly enhancing local agricultural competitiveness and optimizing agricultural structure [7]. - Specific examples include the expansion of freshwater aquaculture in Yongdeng County, which now covers 5,000 acres and generates an annual output of 1,500 tons of fish, valued at over 80 million yuan [7]. - The introduction of advanced apple cultivation techniques in Qin'an County has increased online sales to 40% of total sales, with the apple industry’s annual output value exceeding 6 billion yuan [7].