Investors today frequently associate the bull case for the nuclear energy sector with the adoption of AI and the construction of data centers. While the AI story bolsters the case for nuclear power adoption, it is far from the only reason nuclear energy has received increased attention over the past couple years. Recalling the slew of executive orders (EOs) signed by President Trump in May of 2025, one of the longest sections wasn’t about AI. Rather, it detailed the directive for promoting American nuclear exports.
Nuclear’s Geopolitical Strength If a nation wants to pursue commercial nuclear energy but does not have the industrial capabilities to start it themselves, they will look to another country to support their endeavor. The country looking for new nuclear energy will bring more stability to their grid and high-paying jobs for their citizens to operate the facility. The nation providing the nuclear technology has the potential to realize financial gain from the construction project in the country as well as the long-term fuel and maintenance services that will be required over the life of the plant.
Arguably, the exporting country’s biggest gain is not financial. It’s the deep political strength derived from another country relying on their nuclear services instead of those of an adversary. Given that the life of some reactor plants are now projected to exceed 100 years, this is a significant political bond that could last over a century.
The U.S. Is Prioritizing Nuclear Exports Within the executive order for deploying advanced nuclear reactor technologies for national security, the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Energy are directed to pursue multiple pathways for securing new agreements with other nations for exporting American reactor technology. The current administration wants to build reactors like Westinghouse’s (CCJ) AP1000, GE Vernova’s (GEV) BWRX-300, and NuScale’s (SMR) NPM, in as many countries as possible.
The administration has made major headway with these efforts, signing civilian nuclear agreements with Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Armenia. These agreements have varied in scope, but the objective remains the same: to deepen relationships with these countries and avoid needing to rely on other nuclear technology exporters like China or Russia.
Most of the countries the U.S. has engaged with so far currently host Russian nuclear infrastructure. Now they are turning to U.S. nuclear technology for their latest expansions. The U.S. has even found ways to take over the engineering and fuel services handled by Russia with Westinghouse designing a fuel that works in Russian reactors. Other companies like Lightbridge (LTBR) are also designing fuel that works in reactors designed by multiple different countries.
CCJ, GEV, SMR, and LTBR are constituents of the VettaFi Nuclear Renaissance Index (NUKZX). NUKZX is the underlying index for the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ).
For more on the role of geopolitics in nuclear’s comeback, please join our 30-minute webcast on March 19 at 12:30 p.m. ET. Register here.
For investors interested in the global growth opportunity for nuclear power, NUKZX includes a diversified group of companies across the nuclear value chain. Constituents include reactor developers like GEV, as well as companies focused on fuel, construction and services, and utilities (read more).
Related Research A New Wave of Federal Nuclear Support & Coordination
Doors Swing Open for Advanced Nuclear in the U.K.
Not All Nuclear Exposure Is Created Equally
Looking for nuclear insights in your inbox? Subscribe here to keep a pulse on nuclear investing through our weekly research.
For more news, information, and analysis, visit the Nuclear Energy Content Hub.
vettafi.com is owned by VettaFi LLC (“VettaFi”). VettaFi is the index provider for NUKZ, for which it receives an index licensing fee. However, NUKZ is not issued, sponsored, endorsed, or sold by VettaFi. VettaFi has no obligation or liability in connection with the issuance, administration, marketing, or trading of NUKZ.
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2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
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MaxLinear Appoints Kris Sennesael to Board of Directors
CARLSBAD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MaxLinear, Inc. (Nasdaq: MXL), a leading provider of radio frequency (RF), analog, digital and mixed-signal integrated circuits, today announced the appointment of Kris Sennesael to its Board of Directors, effective February 13, 2026.
With more than 25 years of global financial and operational leadership in the semiconductor industry, Sennesael brings deep expertise in strategic planning, capital markets, and scaling high-growth technology businesses. He is currently Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Western Digital (WD), where he oversees the global finance organization.
“Kris’ extensive semiconductor industry experience, financial acumen, and track record of operational excellence make him an invaluable addition to MaxLinear’s Board of Directors,” said Kishore Seendripu, Chairman and CEO. “We look forward to drawing on his insight and expertise as we strategically invest for innovation and growth while maintaining our focus on delivering enduring shareholder value.”
Prior to WD, Sennesael served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Skyworks Solutions, where he played a pivotal role in driving the company’s profitable growth and operational efficiency. He previously held CFO positions at Enphase Energy and Standard Microsystems, contributing to successful transformations and market expansion initiatives. His background spans corporate finance, acquisition strategy, investor relations, and international operations. From 2022 to 2025, Sennesael also served as a director and audit committee chair for Maxeon Solar Technologies, a global leader in solar innovation.
“I am honored to join the MaxLinear Board at such a pivotal moment for the company,” said Sennesael. “MaxLinear’s differentiated technology roadmap, deep engineering talent, and disciplined operational execution create a powerful foundation for long-term value creation. I look forward to working with the Board and management team to help accelerate the company’s next phase of growth.”
About MaxLinear, Inc.
MaxLinear, Inc. (Nasdaq:MXL) is a leading provider of radio frequency (RF), analog, digital and mixed-signal integrated circuits for access and connectivity, wired and wireless infrastructure, and industrial and multi-market applications. MaxLinear is headquartered in Carlsbad, California. For more information, please visit www.maxlinear.com.
MXL is MaxLinear’s registered trademark. Other trademarks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding our ability to invest for innovation and growth; statements regarding our potential growth; statements regarding our ability to deliver shareholder value; and statements by Kris Sennesael and our Chairman and CEO. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and our future financial performance and operating results forecasts generally. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current, preliminary expectations and are subject to various risks and uncertainties. In particular, our future operating results are substantially dependent on our assumptions about market trends and conditions. Additional risks and uncertainties affecting our business, future operating results and financial condition include, without limitation, risks relating to: our terminated merger with Silicon Motion and related arbitration and class action complaint and the risks related to potential payment of damages; the effect of intense and increasing competition; increased tariffs, export controls or imposition of other trade barriers; impacts of global economic conditions; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry; a significant variance in our operating results and impact on volatility in our stock price, and our ability to sustain our current level of revenue, which has previously declined, and/or manage future growth effectively, and the impact of excess inventory in the channel on our customers’ expected demand for certain of our products and on our revenue; escalating trade wars, military conflicts and other geopolitical and economic tensions among the countries in which we conduct business; international geopolitical and military conflicts; our ability to obtain or retain government authorization to export certain of our products or technology; the loss of, or a significant reduction in orders from major customers; legal proceedings or potential violations of regulations; information technology failures; a decrease in the average selling prices of our products; failure to penetrate new applications and markets; development delays and consolidation trends in our industry; inability to make substantial and productive research and development investments; delays or expenses caused by undetected defects or bugs in our products; substantial quarterly and annual fluctuations in our revenue and operating results; failure to timely develop and introduce new or enhanced products; order and shipment uncertainties and differences between our estimates of customer demand and product mix and our actual results; failure to accurately predict our future revenue and appropriately budget expenses; lengthy and expensive customer qualification processes; customer product plan cancellations; failure to maintain compliance with government regulations; failure to attract and retain qualified personnel; any adverse impact of rising interest rates on us, our customers, and our distributors and related demand; risks related to compliance with privacy, data protection and cybersecurity laws and regulations; risks related to conforming our products to industry standards; risks related to business acquisitions and investments; claims of intellectual property infringement; our ability to protect our intellectual property; security vulnerabilities of our products; use of open source software in our products; failure to manage our relationships with, or negative impacts from, third parties; and future decisions relating to our stock repurchase program.
In addition to these risks and uncertainties, investors should review the risks and uncertainties contained in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including our Current Reports on Form 8-K, as well as the information to be set forth under the caption "Risk Factors" in MaxLinear's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025. All forward-looking statements are based on the estimates, projections and assumptions of management as of January 29, 2026, and MaxLinear is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
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NextGen Healthcare Chosen to Help Award-Winning ENT Practice Consolidate Vendors, Optimize Workflows
Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians Reimagines Patient, Staff, and Provider Experience With Integrated Solutions
COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NextGen Healthcare, a leading provider of innovative, cloud-based healthcare technology solutions, has been selected as a healthcare technology partner by Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians. A range of solutions from NextGen Healthcare will optimize clinical, practice management, and revenue cycle workflows, creating a seamless NextGen® Closed Loop™ experience that improves the provider, staff, and patient journeys.
“Our integrated workflows and solutions will both simplify operations and enable their teams to focus on delivering award-winning patient care," said Srinivas (Sri) Velamoor, president and chief executive officer, NextGen Healthcare
Share Named the #1 physician practice for ENT care in Ohio by Castle Connolly and recognized as a top 5 physician otolaryngology practice nationwide, Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians’ team includes 33 physicians, 22 doctors of audiology, and other advanced providers. Specialties include oral pathology and neuro ophthalmology, in addition to ENT and allergy services. The practice will replace bolt-on solutions from different vendors with integrated offerings from NextGen Healthcare that work together to address bottlenecks, minimize duplicate work, and achieve greater efficiency.
NextGen® Enterprise EHR (electronic health record) and NextGen® Enterprise PM (practice management) will boost visibility across 11 sites of care, while NextGen® Insights Solutions will inform decision-making with data-driven analytics and insights. NextGen® Mobile will support work-life balance by empowering providers to access the EHR from their mobile devices and AI-driven ambient listening solution NextGen® Ambient Assist will save them up to 2.5 hours of documentation time per day by delivering SOAP notes directly into the EHR.
Patients will gain a better bill pay experience with NextGen® Pay powered by InstaMed, which will also simplify financial processes for staff with real-time automated payment batching and end-to-end payment processing. The patient experience will be enhanced with NextGen® Self-Scheduling powered by Luma and NextGen® Patient Engage powered by Luma, which allows patients to schedule appointments and complete pre-visit intake forms from their personal devices. NextGen Virtual Visits™ will expand access to care by facilitating telehealth appointments.
“We wanted a healthtech partner with a deep understanding of the nuances of ENT care, as well as big-picture insights on how to modernize workflows for long-term success,” said Holly Bezold, chief executive officer, Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians. “We're excited to work with NextGen Healthcare to streamline processes for staff and providers while elevating the patient journey.”
“Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians is leading the way in otolaryngology care, and we are proud to support their next phase of growth,” said Srinivas (Sri) Velamoor, president and chief executive officer, NextGen Healthcare. “Our integrated workflows and solutions will both simplify operations and enable their teams to focus on delivering award-winning patient care.”
To learn more about how a NextGen Closed Loop experience empowers providers, staff, and patients, visit nextgen.com.
About Ohio ENT & Allergy Physicians
Medical and surgical specialists committed to providing excellent and compassionate care to adult and pediatric patients in the community that we have served for over 60 years. Our mission to provide the best quality care for patients of all ages has never changed. For more than 60 years and a few name changes, we’ve been privileged to treat individuals and multi-generational families who have come to trust and depend on us. Learn more at ohioentandallergy.com.
About NextGen Healthcare
NextGen Healthcare, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative healthcare technology and data solutions. We are reimagining ambulatory healthcare with award-winning EHR, practice management and surround solutions that enable providers to deliver whole-person health and value-based care. Our highly integrated, intelligent, and interoperable solutions increase clinical quality and productivity, enrich the patient experience and drive superior financial performance. We are on a relentless quest to achieve better healthcare outcomes for all. Learn more at nextgen.com, and follow us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.
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2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
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Cardio Diagnostics Holdings, Inc. to Host Investor Call on Wednesday, February 18, 2026
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cardio Diagnostics Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: CDIO) (“Cardio Diagnostics” or the “Company”), a precision cardiovascular medicine company leveraging epigenetics, genetics, and artificial intelligence for the prevention and detection of cardiovascular disease, today announced that it will host an investor conference call on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 3 p.m. Central Time.
The call will provide an overview of the Company’s precision molecular approach to cardiovascular disease prevention and early detection, including updates on its commercially available tests, Epi+Gen CHD™ and PrecisionCHD™, recent breakthrough clinical data, reimbursement progress, and strategic growth initiatives.
Webcast and Conference Call Details
Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Time: 3 p.m. Central Time
Webcast: https://www.cstproxy.com/cardiodiagnosticsinc/investorday/2026
To access the conference call by telephone, U.S. and Canada-based callers should dial 1 800-450-7155 (toll-free), and callers from outside the U.S. and Canada should dial +1 857-999-9155 (standard rates apply). Participants should use the passcode provided below to join.
Passcode: 3253181#
A replay of the webcast will be available via the webcast link above following the conclusion of the call.
About Cardio Diagnostics
Cardio Diagnostics is an artificial intelligence-powered precision cardiovascular medicine company that makes cardiovascular disease prevention, detection, and management more accessible, personalized, and precise. The Company was formed to further develop and commercialize clinical tests by leveraging a proprietary Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Integrated Genetic-Epigenetic Engine ("Core Technology") for cardiovascular disease. For more information, please visit https://cdio.ai/.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements and information included in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995. When used in this press release, the words or phrases "will," "will likely result," "expected to," "will continue," "anticipated," "estimate," "projected," "intend," "goal," or similar expressions are intended to identify "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to certain risks, known and unknown, and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Such uncertainties and risks include but are not limited to, our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, changes in laws or regulations, economic conditions, and dependence on results as discussed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2024, under the heading "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item IA thereof, and other documents filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such factors could materially adversely affect the Company's financial performance and could cause the Company's actual results for future periods to differ materially from any opinions or statements expressed within this press release.
More News From Cardio Diagnostics Holdings, Inc.
2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
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Moleculin Announces Notice of Allowance for Japanese Patent Covering Annamycin
HOUSTON, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Moleculin Biotech, Inc., (Nasdaq: MBRX) (“Moleculin” or the “Company”), today announced that the Japan Patent Office (JPO) has issued a notice of allowance for Patent Application No. 2021-577862 titled, “METHOD OF RECONSTITUTING LIPOSOMAL ANNAMYCIN.” A patent from the application is expected to be issued in the coming months.
The allowed claims cover proprietary methods for reconstituting and preparing liposomal Annamycin from a preliposomal lyophilizate under controlled temperature conditions to achieve precise concentrations suitable for intravenous administration. These methods are designed to ensure consistent dosing, stability, and handling during preparation and delivery, including maintaining the formulation at physiologic temperatures throughout reconstitution and dilution. Annamycin, Moleculin’s novel, lipid-based anthracycline drug candidate, is being developed for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other hematologic malignancies and is positioned to potentially become the first non-cardiotoxic anthracycline approved for clinical use. Additional preclinical studies conducted at leading cancer centers suggest Annamycin may have broader applicability across multiple cancer types. This Japanese patent allowance complements Moleculin’s existing U.S. and European patent coverage, with additional Annamycin-related patent applications pending in major jurisdictions worldwide.
“Securing strong patent protection across key global markets remains a core strategic priority as we advance our non-cardiotoxic therapy for relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia through pivotal Phase 3 development,” commented Walter Klemp, Chairman and CEO of Moleculin. “This newly allowed Japanese patent further strengthens our international intellectual property position by protecting critical methods supporting the preparation and clinical use of our therapy, reinforcing our confidence in its long-term value as we work toward potential regulatory approval and commercialization in key territories worldwide.”
Annamycin, also known by its non-proprietary name of naxtarubicin, currently has Fast Track Status and Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA for the treatment of relapsed or refractory AML, in addition to Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of STS lung mets. Furthermore, Annamycin has Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of relapsed or refractory AML from the EMA.
About Moleculin Biotech, Inc.
Moleculin Biotech, Inc. is a Phase 3 clinical stage pharmaceutical company advancing a pipeline of therapeutic candidates addressing hard-to-treat tumors and viruses. The Company’s lead program, Annamycin (also known as naxtarubicin), is a next-generation highly efficacious and well tolerated anthracycline designed to avoid multidrug resistance mechanisms and to lack the cardiotoxicity common with currently prescribed anthracyclines. Annamycin is currently in development for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and soft tissue sarcoma (STS) lung metastases.
The Company has begun the MIRACLE (Moleculin R/R AML AnnAraC Clinical Evaluation) Trial (MB-108), a pivotal, adaptive design Phase 3 trial evaluating Annamycin in combination with cytarabine, together referred to as AnnAraC (the combination of Annamycin and cytarabine, also referred to as “Ara-C”) and, for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia. Following a successful Phase 1B/2 study (MB-106), with input from the FDA, the Company believes it has substantially de-risked the development pathway towards a potential approval for Annamycin for the treatment of AML. This study remains subject to appropriate future filings with potential additional feedback from the FDA and their foreign equivalents.
Additionally, the Company is developing WP1066, an Immune/Transcription Modulator capable of inhibiting p-STAT3 and other oncogenic transcription factors while also stimulating a natural immune response, targeting brain tumors, pancreatic and other cancers. Moleculin also has in its pipeline a portfolio of antimetabolites, including WP1122 for the potential treatment of pathogenic viruses, as well as certain cancer indications.
For more information about the Company, please visit www.moleculin.com and connect on X, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Forward-Looking Statements
Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the timing and the outcomes of the patent issuance, and the potential for Annamycin to achieve regulatory approval or commercialization. Moleculin will require significant additional financing, for which the Company has no commitments, in order to conduct its clinical trials as described in this press release, and the milestones described in this press release assume the Company’s ability to secure such financing on a timely basis. Although Moleculin believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company relies on the reports of its expert with regard to the absence of cardiotoxicity. The dataset referenced in this press release is subject to the review of the data from future subjects in its current and future clinical trials and long-term follow-up with subjects in its current trials. Moleculin has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including ‘believes,’ ‘estimates,’ ‘anticipates,’ ‘expects,’ ‘plans,’ ‘projects,’ ‘intends,’ ‘potential,’ ‘may,’ ‘could,’ ‘might,’ ‘will,’ ‘should,’ ‘approximately’ or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including those discussed under Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our most recently filed Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and updated from time to time in our Form 10-Q filings and in our other public filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
HomeIndustriesFood/Beverages/TobaccoWeak consumer sentiment and heightened uncertainty have prompted an earnings and sales-growth guidance cutPublished: Feb. 17, 2026 at 8:38 a.m. ET
Shares of General Mills dropped Tuesday after the consumer-foods company lowered its full-year outlook for both profit and sales growth, as the company’s growth strategy appeared unable to counter weak consumer sentiment.
The lowered outlook came just as the company, which brands include Cheerios, Pillsbury, Häagen-Dazs and Progresso, outlined at an industry conference the progress it has made on its “Accelerate” growth strategy, which enters its sixth year.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in the UK.
Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:
£79—B&B FOR 2 AT 36 COUNTRY INNS THROUGH 2026
Coaching Inn Group's hotels include a Cornwall smugglers inn, a North Yorkshire manor, and a Welsh seaside retreat. Valid every Sunday throughout 2026, this offer is £79 for two people. It includes overnight accommodation in a Classic Room with full English breakfast. Choose from 36 properties across the UK. £2499PP—AMAZON RAINFOREST, GALÁPAGOS & VOLCANOES
This tour follows Charles Darwin's footsteps to the Galápagos Islands. Spend 10 nights in Ecuador, starting in Quito—one of the highest capitals in the world. Explore the biodiversity of San Cristóbal and the Amazon Rainforest. Flights, baggage, hotel stays, and transfers are all included. We save £1300 on the normal selling price. £254PP—TUSCANY: 4-NIGHT GETAWAY WITH FLORENCE DAYTRIP
Montecatini Terme is home to thermal springs and ancient spas. It's often described as Italy's version of Bath. Spend four nights at a traditional hotel just off the main piazza, with daily breakfast and dinner included. This package also comes with return train tickets to Florence, wine tasting, entry to the thermal spa, and funicular railway passes to the old town. Fly from a choice of six UK airports. We save 31–41% on the cost of booking everything separately. Offers have limited inventory and are subject to availability.
Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com
About Travelzoo
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.
Media Contact:
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February 17, 2026 08:39 ET | Source: Rathbones Group PLC
8.3
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
1. KEY INFORMATION
(a) Full name of discloser:Rathbones Group Plc(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named. (c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
Use a separate form for each offeror/offereeLondonMetric Property Plc(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: (e) Date position held/dealing undertaken:
For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure16/02/2026(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”Yes 2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:10p Ord InterestsShort positions Number%Number%(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:87,799,8293.74% (2) Cash-settled derivatives: (3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell: TOTAL:
87,799,8293.74% All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists: Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages: 3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a) Purchases and sales
Class of relevant securityPurchase/saleNumber of securitiesPrice per unit10p Ordinary SharesSale8,399211.9604p10p Ordinary SharesSale29,942211.202p10p Ordinary SharesSale53,000210.89p10p Ordinary SharesSale2,465211.4401p10p Ordinary SharesSale5,361209.5204p10p Ordinary SharesPurchase8,399212.04p10p Ordinary SharesPurchase17,000211.4413p10p Ordinary SharesPurchase7,050211.2647p (b) Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant securityProduct description
e.g. CFDNature of dealing
e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short positionNumber of reference securitiesPrice per unit (c) Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)
(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying
Class of relevant securityProduct description e.g. call optionWriting, purchasing, selling, varying etc.Number of securities to which option relatesExercise price per unitType
e.g. American, European etc.Expiry dateOption money paid/ received per unit (ii) Exercise
Class of relevant securityProduct description
e.g. call optionExercising/ exercised againstNumber of securitiesExercise price per unit (d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant securityNature of dealing
e.g. subscription, conversionDetailsPrice per unit (if applicable)10p Ordinary SharesTransfer Out3,102 10p Ordinary SharesTransfer Out6,160 10p Ordinary SharesTransfer Out2,900 4. OTHER INFORMATION
(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”None (b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
(i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
(ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”None (c) Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?No Date of disclosure:17/02/2026Contact name:Hannah Collins – Compliance Department Telephone number:0151 243 7103 Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.
2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
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AST SpaceMobile, Intuitive Machines, and Rocket Lab Tumble While Iridium Gains
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Space stocks delivered a mixed week of performance last week, with established players showing resilience while high-growth names faced pressure. The sector continued its volatile trajectory as investors weighed near-term execution risks against long-term orbital infrastructure opportunities.
As we begin a new week, it looks like the trend willonce again be weighted to selling off ‘risk’ and growth. In premarket trading this morning, AST SpaceMobile (Nasdaq: ASTS) is down 2.5%, Rocket Lab down 1.7%, and Planet Labs (NYSE: PL) is down 3.3%.
Let’s dive into what happened last week to see what the trends in space have been so far in 2026.
Weekly Performance Tracker Company Ticker Weekly Change YTD 2026 Iridium Communications NASDAQ:IRDM +15.85% +33.31% AST SpaceMobile NASDAQ:ASTS -18.94% +13.60% Intuitive Machines NASDAQ:LUNR -7.93% -0.62% Rocket Lab NASDAQ:RKLB | RKLB Price Prediction -6.75% -3.33% Globalstar NASDAQ:GSAT +4.18% -1.61% As we noted in our free daily newsletter this morning, infrastructure plays across tech sectors are showing divergent performance as investors reassess growth timelines.
M&A Activity Reshapes Sector Intuitive Machines announced its $800 million acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems in November, expected to close in Q1 2026. CEO Steve Altemus framed the deal as positioning the company “as next generation space prime.” The acquisition comes as LUNR carries a $235.9 million backlog and $622 million in cash. Reddit sentiment hit 88 (Very Bullish) on Saturday morning as investors digested consolidation implications.
Deutsche Bank last week issued a research note that featured Intuitive Machines as a top stock idea surrounding America’s return to the moon. The researcher has an $18 price target on Intuitive Machines, but noted SpaceX’s recent ‘pivot’ back to the moon and general interest in creating a base on its surface leads to Intuitive Machines being the most logical beneficiary.
Rocket Lab secured a record number of launch contracts while advancing its Neutron launch vehicle. The company is working through qualification tests in hopes of a first launch as early as the middle of the year. Last week, 24/7 Wall St. author Rich Duprey took a look at how hypersonic tests could be another catalyst for Rocket Lab’s stock.
Financing and Index Inclusion AST SpaceMobile’s week was dominated by financing activity, generating sustained discussion on r/wallstreetbets with peak engagement of 858 upvotes and 254 comments. The company graduated to the MSCI World Index effective February 27, 2026, creating predictable passive fund buying pressure despite concerns reflected in the week’s double-digit decline.
Overall, shares sank 19%, one of the worst performances across the broader space industry. It looks like this week is once again starting with a rotation away from ‘risk assets’ and into safer industries. If that situation continues, it will lead to broad selling across pre-revenue stocks.
Iridium Communications led gainers after reaffirming steady service revenue growth guidance and highlighting strong operational momentum in its IoT business. Iridium has a much different profile than many other space stocks, in that it’s now defending a cash-cow business. Investors cheered their latest quarterly earnings, but that’s because shares were down massively across the past year headed into earnings. That is to say, investors were happy to see the results simply weren’t worse.
The upcoming months should be action-packed with the Artemis mission returning to the moon scheduled for March. We’ll see if broader enthusiasm surrounding that mission leads to more positive sentiment for space stocks.
2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
2026-02-17 08:4023d ago
AITX, RAD-I and RAD-M Drive ROAMEO Forward on Third National Tour Leg Ahead of ISC West
Detroit, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - February 17, 2026) - Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (OTCID: AITX) (the "Company"), a global leader in AI-driven security and productivity solutions, along with its wholly owned subsidiaries, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD-I), and Robotic Assistance Devices Mobile, Inc. (RAD-M), today announced the launch of the third leg of ROAMEO's™ national demonstration tour, a multi-state roadshow that will bring the Company's advanced autonomous security robot from its Detroit REX facility to Las Vegas for ISC West beginning March 23 inside RAD's booth 21117.
Artist’s depiction of ROAMEO showcased during its third national tour leg ahead of ISC West 2026.
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5243/283885_aitx-roameo-tour-3-260217-1920x1080.jpg
This third leg builds on ROAMEO's nationwide tour that began in the summer of 2025 and continued through a series of high-profile fall security conferences, where enterprise end users, monitoring centers, and public safety leaders experienced the mobile platform firsthand. With growing interest from large property operators, logistics hubs, critical infrastructure stakeholders, and law enforcement agencies, RAD determined that bringing ROAMEO directly to prospects along its route to ISC West was both practical and necessary. Scheduled stops currently include Nashville, Tennessee on February 24, Lincoln, Nebraska on February 27, Austin, Texas during Infraday on March 3 and 4, and Kansas City, Missouri on March 10, with additional appearances anticipated along the route. Organizations unable to attend ISC West are invited to request a private demonstration along the tour route.
"The excitement we're seeing for ROAMEO exceeds even our internal expectations," said Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and its RAD subsidiaries. "Since being recognized by Frost and Sullivan for our leadership in autonomous security, enterprise engagement has accelerated. Our sales funnel is more energized around ROAMEO than nearly any solution we have introduced, and its recurring revenue potential represents one of the most significant long-term growth drivers across our portfolio. This tour is about meeting that demand face to face."
"Having helped pioneer security robotics in the early days of this industry, I recognize when a platform is positioned to scale," said Stacy Stephens, Senior Vice President of Sales at RAD-M and co-founder of security robotics company Knightscope. "ROAMEO delivers the presence, capability, and enterprise readiness that large property operators and public safety leaders are demanding. I am excited to represent ROAMEO throughout this tour and to put it directly in front of decision makers who want to see real autonomy operating in their environments."
Additional tour stops are expected to be announced in the coming days, including likely appearances in Memphis, Tennessee and Atlanta, Georgia, as enterprise and public sector interest continues to build. Organizations seeking a live demonstration are encouraged to submit a request while ROAMEO is en route, as availability is limited prior to its arrival at ISC West. Following the Las Vegas showcase, ROAMEO will return to its Detroit home base, with additional deployments and demonstrations anticipated as demand for mobile autonomous security continues to expand.
The Company invites security professionals and channel partners to experience ROAMEO in action at ISC West 2026. Attendees will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations, speak directly with RAD leadership and product experts, and learn how autonomous security deployments are being proven, expanded, and scaled across real world environments. Meetings may be scheduled in advance or arranged onsite throughout the show.
About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (AITX)
AITX, through its primary subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD-I), is redefining the nearly $50 billion (US) security and guarding services industry1 through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry's existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD delivers these cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house.
The Company's operations and internal controls have been validated through successful completion of its SOC 2 Type 2 audit, which is a formal, independent audit that evaluates a service organization's internal controls for handling customer data and determines if the controls are not only designed properly but also operating effectively to protect customer data. This audit reinforces the Company's credibility with enterprise and government clients who require strict data protection and security compliance.
RAD is led by Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX and RAD, who brings decades of experience in the security services industry. Reinharz serves as chair of the Security Industry Association's (SIA) Autonomous Solutions Working Group and as a member of the SIA Board of Directors. The RAD team also draws on extensive expertise across the sector, including Mark Folmer, CPP, PSP, President of RAD and Chair of the ASIS International North American Regional Board of Directors, Troy McCanna, former FBI Special Agent and RAD's Chief Security Officer, and Stacy Stephens, co-founder of security robotics company Knightscope. Their combined backgrounds in security industry leadership, law enforcement, and robotics innovation reinforce RAD's ability to deliver proven, practical, and disruptive solutions to its clients.
RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time.
AITX is an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organizations to gain new insight, solve complex challenges and fuel new business ideas. Through its next-generation robotic product offerings, AITX's RAD, RAD-R, RAD-M and RAD-G companies help organizations streamline operations, increase ROI, and strengthen business. AITX technology improves the simplicity and economics of patrolling and guard services and allows experienced personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. Customers augment the capabilities of existing staff and gain higher levels of situational awareness, all at drastically reduced cost. AITX solutions are well suited for use in multiple industries such as enterprises, government, transportation, critical infrastructure, education, and healthcare. To learn more, visit www.aitx.ai, www.radsecurity.com, www.stevereinharz.com, www.raddog.ai, www.radgroup.ai, www.saramonitoring.ai, and www.radlightmyway.com, or follow Steve Reinharz on X @SteveReinharz.
CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the "Company"). The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.
For purposes of the Company's disclosures, "Artificial Intelligence" refers to machine-based systems designed to operate with varying levels of autonomy that, for a given set of human defined objectives, can make predictions, recommendations, or decisions influencing real or virtual environments. In the context of the Company's business, Artificial Intelligence is deployed primarily within the security services and property management industries to support functions such as detection, analysis, prioritization, communication, and response related to safety, security, and operational events.
The Company delivers these capabilities principally through its SARA™ (Speaking Autonomous Responsive Agent) platform, which serves as the Company's primary agentic artificial intelligence system. SARA is designed to receive and process video, audio, and other sensor data, apply automated analysis and inference, and support actions in accordance with predefined operational objectives and human oversight.
Further note that the Company's Board of Directors oversees the Company's deployment of Artificial Intelligence.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/283885
Source: Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc.
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2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
2026-02-17 08:4023d ago
Earth Science Tech, Inc. (ETST) Upgrades Audit Capabilities, Engages Semple, Marchal & Cooper, LLP as Independent PCAOB Auditor to Support Continued Expansion
MIAMI, FL, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Earth Science Tech, Inc. (OTC: ETST) (“ETST” or the “Company”), a strategic holding company focused on a diversified, vertically integrated health and wellness portfolio, today announced the engagement of Semple, Marchal & Cooper, LLP (“Semple”) as its new independent Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) auditor.
This transition represents a strategic upgrade in the Company’s financial governance infrastructure. As ETST continues its rapid expansion across pharmacy compounding, telemedicine, and real estate, the complexity of its consolidated accounting has increased significantly. The Board of Directors determined that engaging Semple—a pre-eminent regional firm with broader resources and specialized expertise—was necessary to optimize auditing efficiencies and match the Company's current operational scale.
“As we mature from a developmental stage into a rapidly growing diversified holding company, our corporate governance framework must evolve in parallel,” stated Jeff P. H. Cazeau, Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee stated of ETST. “We selected Semple, Marchal & Cooper due to their reputation as a pre-eminent regional firm and their ability to bring a multi-disciplined perspective to our increasingly complex financial structure.”
About Semple, Marchal & Cooper, LLP
Semple, Marchal & Cooper, LLP is a pre-eminent regional Certified Public Accounting firm serving the Southwest. Offering a comprehensive suite of services—including accounting, auditing, tax planning, and management consulting—the firm adopts a multi-disciplined perspective to deliver maximum value to clients. Committed to long-term growth and uncompromised objectivity, Semple, Marchal & Cooper prioritizes recruiting top-tier talent to meet the evolving financial needs of businesses with integrity and experience.
To learn more, please visit: www.SempleCPA.com
About Earth Science Tech, Inc. (ETST)
Earth Science Tech, Inc. is a diversified holding company focused on the health and wellness sector. Through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, ETST operates a vertically integrated portfolio that includes high-quality compounding pharmacies, telemedicine platforms, and targeted healthcare facilities. The Company currently owns RxCompoundStore.com and Mister Meds, two licensed compounding pharmacies providing sterile and non-sterile medications across a growing network of U.S. states. These operations are supported by Peaks Curative, DOConsultation.com, and Las Villas Health Care, providing patients with personalized care, telemedicine connectivity, and clinical support.
Beyond healthcare, ETST manages Avenvi, its real estate and asset management arm, and MagneChef, a direct-to-consumer brand leveraging proprietary IP for innovative kitchen products. The Company is also committed to social responsibility through the Earth Science Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to assisting patients with prescription costs.
To learn more, please visit: www.EarthScienceTech.com
SAFE HARBOR ACT: Forward-Looking Statements. Except for historical information, the matters discussed herein may be considered “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management, including, without limitation, future-oriented statements related to cash flow, gross margins, revenues, and expenses. These statements are based on and reflect our current expectations, estimates, assumptions and/or projections, our perception of historical trends and current conditions, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They may include forward-looking words such as “expect,” “expectation,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “belief,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “predict,” “likely,” “seek,” “project,” “model,” “ongoing,” “will,” “should,” “forecast,” “outlook” or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from our intent, belief or current expectations, including, inter alia, the markets for the Company’s products and services, costs of goods and services, other expenses, government regulations, litigations, and general business conditions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or projected. The Company assumes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements for any reason, except as required by law.
CLASS ACTION REMINDER: Berger Montague Advises Varonis Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRNS) Investors to Inquire About a Securities Fraud Lawsuit by March 9, 2026
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- National plaintiffs’ law firm Berger Montague PC announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Varonis Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRNS) (“Varonis” or the “Company”) on behalf of investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Varonis securities during the period of February 4, 2025 through October 28, 2025 (the “Class Period”).
Investor Deadline: Investors who purchased Varonis securities during the Class Period may, no later than March 9, 2026, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class. To learn your rights, CLICK HERE.
The lawsuit alleges that Varonis and its senior executives misled investors as to the true state of the Company’s ability to convert its existing customer base. Defendants raised investor expectations despite knowing that Varonis was not positioned to successfully convince existing users of the benefits of converting to the Company’s SaaS offering, resulting in significantly reduced annual recurring revenue (ARR) growth potential in the near-term.
When investors learned the truth about customer renewals and conversions, Varonis’ common stock declined dramatically, from a closing price of $63.00 per share on October 28, 2025 to a close of $32.34 per share on October 29, 2025 – a decline of $30.66 per share, or more than 48%, in a single day.
If you are a Varonis investor and would like to learn more about this action, CLICK HERE or please contact Berger Montague: Andrew Abramowitz at [email protected] or (215) 875-3015, or Caitlin Adorni at [email protected] or (267)764-4865.
About Berger Montague
Berger Montague is one of the nation’s preeminent law firms focusing on complex civil litigation, class actions, and mass torts in federal and state courts throughout the United States. With more than $2.4 billion in 2025 post-trial judgments alone, the Firm is a leader in the fields of complex litigation, antitrust, consumer protection, defective products, environmental law, employment law, securities, and whistleblower cases, among many other practice areas. For over 55 years, Berger Montague has played leading roles in precedent-setting cases and has recovered over $50 billion for its clients and the classes they have represented. Berger Montague is headquartered in Philadelphia and has offices in Chicago; Malvern, PA; Minneapolis; San Diego; San Francisco; Toronto, Canada; Washington, D.C., and Wilmington, DE.
For more information or to discuss your rights, please contact:
Andrew Abramowitz
Senior Counsel
Berger Montague
(215) 875-3015 [email protected]
Caitlin Adorni
Director of Portfolio & Institutional Client Monitoring Services
Berger Montague
(267) 764-4865 [email protected]
Herc Holdings (HRI - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $2.07 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.84 per share. This compares to earnings of $3.58 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +12.70%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this equipment rental supplier would post earnings of $1.83 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.22, delivering a surprise of +21.31%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Herc Holdings, which belongs to the Zacks Transportation - Equipment and Leasing industry, posted revenues of $1.21 billion for the quarter ended December 2025, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 3.93%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $934 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Herc Holdings shares have added about 16.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's decline of 0.1%.
What's Next for Herc Holdings?While Herc Holdings has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Herc Holdings was favorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to outperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $1.06 on $1.16 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $8.21 on $5.03 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Transportation - Equipment and Leasing is currently in the top 18% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Another stock from the same industry, Freightcar America (RAIL - Free Report) , has yet to report results for the quarter ended December 2025.
This rail car maker is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.18 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -14.3%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Freightcar America's revenues are expected to be $144.78 million, up 5.1% from the year-ago quarter.
Orion (OEC - Free Report) came out with a quarterly loss of $0.34 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $0.08. This compares to earnings of $0.35 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of -353.33%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this producer of the chemcial additive carbon black would post earnings of $0.36 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.29, delivering a surprise of -19.44%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has not been able to surpass consensus EPS estimates.
Orion, which belongs to the Zacks Chemical - Specialty industry, posted revenues of $411.7 million for the quarter ended December 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.77%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $434.2 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates three times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Orion shares have added about 34.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's decline of 0.1%.
What's Next for Orion?While Orion has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Orion was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.15 on $455.89 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $0.78 on $1.75 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Chemical - Specialty is currently in the bottom 25% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Another stock from the same industry, Perimeter Solutions, SA (PRM - Free Report) , has yet to report results for the quarter ended December 2025. The results are expected to be released on February 26.
This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.09 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -30.8%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 33.3% lower over the last 30 days to the current level.
Perimeter Solutions, SA's revenues are expected to be $89.6 million, up 3.9% from the year-ago quarter.
2026-02-17 13:4323d ago
2026-02-17 08:4123d ago
CNH Industrial (CNH) Beats Q4 Earnings and Revenue Estimates
CNH Industrial (CNH - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.19 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.11 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.15 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +74.47%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this truck, tractor and bus maker would post earnings of $0.13 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.08, delivering a surprise of -38.46%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
CNH, which belongs to the Zacks Manufacturing - Farm Equipment industry, posted revenues of $5.16 billion for the quarter ended December 2025, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 2.74%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $4.88 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates four times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
CNH shares have added about 38.3% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's decline of 0.1%.
What's Next for CNH?While CNH has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for CNH was unfavorable. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to underperform the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.06 on $3.86 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $0.48 on $18.02 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Manufacturing - Farm Equipment is currently in the bottom 36% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Alamo Group (ALG - Free Report) , another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended December 2025.
This maker of road maintenance, industrial and farm equipment is expected to post quarterly earnings of $2.06 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -13.8%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Alamo Group's revenues are expected to be $399.6 million, up 3.7% from the year-ago quarter.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
ZenaTech Advances its Autonomous AI Drone Power Wash Platform and Dubai Drone as a Service Presence
February 17, 2026 07:30 ET | Source: ZenaTech Inc.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ZenaTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZENA) (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) ("ZenaTech"), a technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drone, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces it is advancing its AI autonomous drone power wash system designed for building cleaning and outdoor maintenance applications using its ZenaDrone IQ Square drone. The power wash system is currently undergoing testing and validation at a private flight-testing facility in Dubai while the company continues to advance plans to open a Drone as a Service location in the city. Designed for buildings, industrial infrastructure, government properties, and public spaces, the power wash system is being developed to leverage intelligent automated flight control and LiDAR scanning, to deliver high-precision cleaning with minimal manual labor.
“Our tethered, AI-powered drone autonomy platform is designed to transform building cleaning and maintenance from a labor-intensive, high-risk service into a scalable, technology-driven automated solution. By eliminating work at height, reducing labor dependency, and using LiDAR and AI to precisely target cleaning, we plan to deliver faster and more consistent results, safer operations, and lower water and chemical usage,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., ZenaTech CEO. “The global drone-based cleaning services market is growing at 17% annually, projected to reach over USD 13 billion by 2030. We plan to leverage this opportunity by modernizing a traditional manual industry with drones, data and AI at its core. Dubai’s rapid building growth plus demanding maintenance requirements provides an ideal setting to test and validate our system laying the foundation for market expansion through our Drone as a Service network.”
The drone-based power washing process consists of a drone scan of a building with LiDAR to create a 3D map and identify areas that need deeper cleaning. AI software is being developed to generate an optimized wash plan, directing the drone to target high-dirt zones and adjusting pressure and coverage as needed. Supplied continuously with tethered power and water, the drone autonomously executes the cleaning route while an operator can supervise from the ground.
The Company also disclosed progress towards the opening of its Drone as a Service location in Dubai, having hired business development staff and currently in the process of training drone pilots. The Company has selected and is currently in the process of leasing a 2200 sq. ft. business sales office to complement its existing 3,000 sq. ft. drone operations warehouse to serve DaaS customers with power washing and other DaaS offerings. In concert, the Dubai office is in the process of scaling its scope of business and aviation permits to support testing and increased urban operations.
The ZenaDrone IQ Square is an advanced AI-powered autonomous drone with a footprint of 40X40 and 50X50 inches in size, in a rotary VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) design. It is designed to perform visual-line-of-sight inspections and surveillance applications for business and government, and power washing applications using a tethered water and power supply. Equipped to use interchangeable state-of-the-art cameras, sensors, and attachments, the IQ Square can carry a payload of up to seven kilograms and offers a battery flight time of approximately 20 minutes with autonomous recharging through landing on a charging pad.
ZenaTech’s Drone as a Service platform is designed to provide business and government customers with on-demand or subscription-based access to faster and superior drone-based services for a host of surveying, inspection, maintenance, power washing, inventory management, and precision agriculture applications, without the capital costs or operational burdens of ownership. By acquiring established, profitable service companies currently using low-tech methodologies ripe for drone innovation, ZenaTech is building a global, multi-service DaaS network of locations in communities anchored by existing customers and revenue, for next-gen drone integration designed for speed, precision, data, and safety benefits. The company is continuing to build its global network of through acquisitions and corporate-owned locations, as well as integrating drone workflows and adding new services.
About ZenaTech
ZenaTech (Nasdaq: ZENA) (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) is a technology company specializing in AI drone, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions for mission-critical applications for business, government and defense. Since 2017, the Company has leveraged its software development expertise and grown its drone design and manufacturing capabilities through ZenaDrone, to innovate and improve customer inspection, monitoring, safety, security, compliance, and surveying processes. With enterprise software customers using branded solutions in law enforcement, government, and industrial sectors, and drones being implemented in these plus agriculture, defense, and logistics sectors, ZenaTech’s portfolio of solutions helps drive speed, accuracy, and cost savings. The Company operates through global offices in North America, Europe, Taiwan, and UAE, and is growing its DaaS business servies and global network of locations through acquisitions.
About ZenaDrone
ZenaDrone, a wholly owned subsidiary of ZenaTech, develops and manufactures autonomous drone solutions that can incorporate machine learning software, AI, predictive modeling, Quantum Computing, and other software and hardware innovations. Created to revolutionize the hemp farming sector, its specialization has grown to multifunctional drone solutions for surveying, monitoring, inspection, tracking, process automation, and defense applications. Currently, the ZenaDrone 1000 drone is used for crop management applications and critical field cargo applications in the defense sector, the IQ Nano indoor drone is used for inventory management and security in the warehouse and logistics sectors, the IQ Square is an outdoor drone designed for power washing and inspections use in commercial and government sectors, and the IQ Quad is for land surveys.
This press release and related comments by management of ZenaTech, Inc. include “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws and applicable Canadian securities laws. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This forward-looking information relates to future events or future performance of ZenaTech and reflects management’s expectations and projections regarding ZenaTech’s growth, results of operations, performance, and business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “aim”, “seek”, “is/are likely to”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this document includes, but is not limited to ZenaTech’s expectations regarding its revenue, expenses, production, operations, costs, cash flows, and future growth; expectations with respect to future production costs and capacity; ZenaTech's ability to deliver products to the market as currently contemplated, including its drone products including ZenaDrone 1000, IQ Square and IQ Nano; ZenaTech's ability to develop products for markets as currently contemplated; ZenaTech’s anticipated cash needs and it’s needs for additional financing; ZenaTech’s intention to grow the business and its operations and execution risk; expectations with respect to future operations and costs; the volatility of stock prices and market conditions in the industries in which ZenaTech operates; political, economic, environmental, tax, security, and other risks associated with operating in emerging markets; regulatory risks; unfavorable publicity or consumer perception; difficulty in forecasting industry trends; the ability to hire key personnel; the competitive conditions of the industry and the competitive and business strategies of ZenaTech; ZenaTech’s expected business objectives for the next twelve months; ZenaTech’s ability to obtain additional funds through the sale of equity or debt commitments; investment capital and market share; the ability to complete any contemplated acquisitions; changes in the target markets; market uncertainty; ability to access additional capital, including through the listing of its securities in various jurisdictions; management of growth (plans and timing for expansion); patent infringement; litigation; applicable laws, regulations, and any amendments affecting the business of ZenaTech and other related risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors“ in the Company’s Form F-1, Form 20-F and other filings filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on EDGAR through the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents managements’ best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
Applied Materials to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences
February 17, 2026 07:30 ET | Source: Applied Materials, Inc.
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Applied Materials, Inc. today announced that members of its management team will participate in fireside chats at upcoming investor conferences.
Dr. Prabu Raja, President, Semiconductor Products Group, will participate at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference on Monday, March 2 beginning at 3:20 p.m. PT / 6:20 p.m. ET.
Brice Hill, Senior Vice President and CFO, will participate at the Cantor Fitzgerald Global Technology & Industrial Growth Conference on Tuesday, March 10 beginning at 5:40 a.m. PT / 8:40 a.m. ET.
A live audio webcast of each session will be available on the Applied Materials website at: https://ir.appliedmaterials.com with a replay available the same day.
About Applied Materials
Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMAT) is the leader in materials engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor and advanced display in the world. The technology we create is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation chips. At Applied, we push the boundaries of science and engineering to deliver material innovation that changes the world. Learn more at www.appliedmaterials.com.
Contact:
Ricky Gradwohl (editorial/media) 408.235.4676
Mike Sullivan (financial community) 408.986.7977
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
North American Niobium Highlights 0.150% Nb₂O₅ with124.53 ppm Dy₂O₃ from Pegmatite Grab Sample and 0.19% TREO from REE-BearingCarbonatite Outcrop at Seigneurie, Québec
Vancouver, British Columbia, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- North American Niobium and Critical Minerals Corp. (CSE: NIOB) (OTCQB: NIOMF) (FSE: KS82.F) (“North American Niobium” or the “Company”) is pleased to report assay results from Phase 1 channel sampling and Phase 2 selective grab sampling completed on its 100%-owned Seigneurie Project located in Longue-Rive (Haute-Côte-Nord), Québec.
The results include a high-grade niobium-dysprosium pegmatite grab sample returning 1,502 ppm Nb₂O₅ (0.1502%) with 124.5 ppm Dy₂O₃ and elevated tantalum, as well as a REE-bearing carbonatite outcrop returning 0.19% TREO (including Y₂O₃).
Highlights
Pegmatite grab sample (G170343): 1,502.02 ppm Nb₂O₅ (0.1502%) and 0.134% TREO which includes 124.52 ppm Dy₂O₃, 14.04 ppm Dy2O3, 16.5 ppm HfO2 and 14.42 ppm Sc2O3. REE-bearing carbonatite grab sample (G170310): 0.19% TREO with 31.10 ppm Dy₂O₃. Phase 1 channel sampling: A 15.0 m composite interval returned 294.39 ppm Nb₂O₅, and 0.039% TREO (which includes 28.66 ppm Dy₂O₃ and 11.30 ppm HfO2). Channel sampling tested only the limited exposed surface outcrop and returned low-grade but consistently anomalous Nb and Dy values. Geochemical signatures indicate alkaline affinity within immobile elements, while broader chemistry remains to be evaluated; exploration is focused on vectoring toward a potential alkaline core The Company is advancing Québec permitting to support drill testing targeted for Q1 2026, subject to receipt of required approvals. Phase 1 – Channel Sampling
Phase 1 was conducted between October 25 and October 27, 2025, consisting of two north–south oriented channels totalling 94.5 metres across exposed pegmatite outcrop.
The best summarized interval represents a 15.0 m composite derived from continuous 1.5 m channel samples (See Table 1).
The pegmatite is interpreted to strike approximately N80° with a steep southerly dip and remains open along strike, width and at depth. Based on surface exposure and historical drill collar locations, the system may exceed 150 metres in apparent width, though this remains subject to verification by drilling.
Phase 2 – Selective Grab Sampling (109 Samples)
Phase 2 selective grab sampling expanded coverage to additional pegmatite and carbonatite outcrops. See table 2 and 3.
0.19% TREO 31.10 ppm Dy₂O₃ Grab samples are selective by nature and may not be representative of mineralization hosted on the Project.
Geological Interpretation
The pegmatite system at Seigneurie appears to strike approximately N80° with a steep dip to the south, based on surface observations and review of historical reports. The system remains open along strike, at width and at depth.
Historical drill collars from the previous drill campaign in 1978 have now been located in the field, and their spatial relationship to current surface exposures suggests that the pegmatite intrusion may be significantly wider than previously interpreted. Based on surface exposure and the position of these historical collars, the pegmatite body may exceed 100 metres in width, and could potentially be wider than 150 metres, subject to confirmation through drilling.
The geometry and scale observed to date suggest the body may represent either a pegmatite dyke and/or an intrusion, though this remains interpretative and will require subsurface validation.
“Phase 1 channel sampling only tested the limited outcrop available at surface, and while the grades are modest, the results consistently show notable niobium, dysprosium, hafnium and scandium.” said Murray Nye, Chief Executive Officer. “Phase 2 has now returned a very encouraging pegmatite grab sample grading 0.15% Nb₂O₅ with notable dysprosium, hafnium and scandium, alongside an REE-bearing carbonatite outcrop returning 0.19% TREO. Given the current market interest and pricing environment for dysprosium, hafnium and scandium, this is an intriguing metal mix and warrants further work as we advance permitting and prepare for drilling in 2026.”
Next Steps
The Company is progressing the required Québec exploration permits to support drilling and continued target development. Integrated geochemical and structural interpretation is underway to prioritize targets for Q1 2026 drilling.
Sampling and Analytical Methods
Samples were submitted to ALS Laboratories for preparation and analysis. Samples were prepared using standard crushing and pulverizing procedures targeting 70% passing 2 mm mesh and 85% passing 75 µm.
Analytical methods included ME-MS71L, ME-MS85, and additional method packages as noted in assay tables. The Company is initiating a duplicate analysis program at a second laboratory to further support quality control procedures.
Channel samples represent continuous sampling across exposed outcrop. Grab samples are selective by nature and may not be representative of underlying mineralization.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN NIOBIUM AND CRITICAL MINERALS CORP.
North American Niobium and Critical Minerals Corp. is a North American mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of precious, base, and critical mineral assets. Its portfolio includes the Silver Lake property in British Columbia’s Omineca Mining Division and a recently acquired land package in Quebec’s Grenville Province. The Quebec properties add exposure to rare earth elements (REE), niobium (Nb), and nickel-copper (Ni-Cu) occurrences, expanding the Company’s footprint into critical minerals that are strategically important for energy and defense applications.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Murray Nye
Chief Executive Officer
1055 West Georgia Street, Suite 1500
Vancouver, BC V6E 0B6
Canada
This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events, results, outcomes or developments that the Company expects, anticipates or intends to occur in the future, or that otherwise reflect management’s expectations or beliefs about future events, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of words and phrases such as “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “opportunity,” “strategy,” “target,” “forecast” and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results “will,” “would,” “may,” “could,” or “should” occur or be achieved.
Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to: (i) statements regarding the Properties and their mineral prospectivity; (ii) the Company’s planned exploration, development and evaluation activities on the Properties; and (iii) the potential for the Grenville Province to host significant rare earth element, niobium, nickel-copper or other critical mineral deposits. Such forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current plans, intentions, expectations and beliefs and are subject to certain assumptions, including, without limitation, assumptions that exploration results will continue to support the prospectivity of the Properties.
Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance or outcomes and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated include, but are not limited to: the timing and receipt of required regulatory approvals; changes in commodity prices and market conditions; the availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms; general economic, business and political conditions; risks inherent in mineral exploration and development, including operational risks, geological uncertainties, environmental risks and accidents; changes in government regulation or policy; and the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development. Additional information regarding risks and uncertainties faced by the Company is available in the Company’s public disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).
Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are made as of the date hereof and are based on information currently available and management’s beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions at that time. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Qualified Person
The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). Clyde McMillan, P.Geo., a consultant to the Company and a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained herein.
The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
Watsco Reports Record Full-Year Gross Margin, Meets Inventory Reduction Target and Generates Record 4th Quarter Cash Flow in Challenging Market Conditions
Entrepreneurial Culture, Transformational Technologies and Debt-Free Balance Sheet Positions Company for Growth
MIAMI, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Watsco, Inc. (NYSE: WSO) announced its operating results for the full-year and fourth quarter period ended December 31, 2025. The Company also provided updates related to innovation and technology, business trends and long-term growth opportunities.
Watsco also announced today a 10% increase in its annual dividend to $13.20 per share effective with its next regular dividend payment in April 2026. This year marks Watsco’s 52nd consecutive year of paying dividends.
Watsco is the largest distributor in the highly-fragmented North American HVAC market. Since entering distribution in 1989, Watsco has achieved a 17% compounded annual total-shareholder return through a combination of organic growth and the acquisition of more than 70 market-leading businesses.
The Company maintains a solid financial position with currently $780 million in cash and investments and no debt, enabling sustained investments in growth, including the Company’s industry-leading technologies. Approximately 73,000 contractors, installers and technicians engage digitally with the Company, which contributes to customer growth and reduced attrition. AI-driven initiatives have also been launched to further enhance the customer experience and improve efficiency. These investments are especially critical as contractors increase their adoption of digital, data-driven solutions in their businesses.
Recent Industry Dynamics
Since 2019, the HVAC/R industry has experienced volatility due to various macroeconomic and industry-specific factors that impacted OEMs, distributors and contractors alike. The COVID pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions, the 2023 regulatory transition to new higher-efficiency products, the reduction of available legacy refrigerants and the slow-down in housing activities have weighed on performance and contributed to volatility.
The industry was further impacted in 2025 by the transition to A2L refrigerant products, the second such regulatory-driven product change in three years. The transition impacted approximately 55% of products sold across 650 locations domestically and resulted in the conversion of over $1 billion of inventory to new products. In response, Watsco invested in people, technology, logistics, training and more to support its customers during the transition.
Despite these dynamics, the Company believes its overall performance in the context of these complexities and other macroeconomic headwinds speaks well of its business model and overall execution. Key performance metrics during this time period include:
Year endedYear ended December 31, 2019December 31,2025ChangeCAGR %Revenues$4.8 billion$7.2 billion+52%+7%Operating income$367 million$720 million+96%+12%Gross margin24.3%28.0%+370 bps Earnings per share$6.50$12.25+88%+11%Dividends paid$6.40$11.70+83%+11%Net (debt) cash($81 million)$733 million+$814 million
Albert H. Nahmad, Chairman and CEO remarked: “The recent business environment has been among the most complicated in memory. I am gratified at the results we achieved and the execution by our teams over the time horizon summarized above. We raised margins, nearly doubled our profitability, invested $300 million in technology, nearly doubled our dividend and fortified our balance sheet to allow investment in most any-sized growth opportunity. We expect a more conventional industry environment and better prospects for growth as 2026 unfolds, and we believe there is room to further optimize inventory and improve operating efficiency.”
Mr. Nahmad added: “We are in a wonderful industry and our technology advantage remains immense. We operate a resilient business in a resilient industry and our focus on the long-term has been, and will be, far more consequential as we build our network, scale our technologies to delight customers and partner with our OEMs to grow and gain share.”
2025 Full-Year Performance
Revenues decreased 5% to $7.24 billionGross profit decreased 1% to $2.0 billionGross profit margin expanded 120 basis-points to a record 28.0%SG&A expenses increased 3%Operating income decreased 8% to $720 million (operating margin of 10.0% versus 10.3% last year)Earnings per share of $12.25 compared to $13.30 last yearOperating cash flow was $570 million (97% of net income) Sales trends
4% overall sales decline in U.S. markets and a 10% decline in non-U.S. markets7% decrease in HVAC equipment (67% of sales)1% decrease in sales for other HVAC products (29% of sales)Flat sales of commercial refrigeration products (4% of sales) Revenues in 2025 reflect lower unit volumes of HVAC equipment, which were partially offset by higher average selling prices following the A2L product transition, further impacted by slower homebuilding. Gross profit margin expanded 120 basis-points to a record 28.0%, driven by further scaling of Watsco’s pricing optimization technologies, as well as OEM pricing actions implemented in 2025. Operating expenses increased due to higher labor, facilities and transportation costs partially associated with the A2L product transition, as well as the acquisition of three businesses during 2025.
Fourth Quarter Performance
Revenues decreased 10% to $1.58 billionGross profit decreased 8% to $428 millionGross profit margin expanded 40 basis-points to 27.1%SG&A expenses decreased 2%Operating income declined 25% to $102 million (operating margins of 6.4%)Earnings per share of $1.68 versus $2.37 last yearRecord operating cash flow of $400 million Sales trends
13% decrease in HVAC equipment (67% of sales)4% decrease in other HVAC products (29% of sales)5% increase in commercial refrigeration products (4% of sales) Fourth quarter 2025 performance should be considered in light of the strong 2024 comparable results, which included 22% sales growth in domestic residential HVAC equipment (20% unit growth) boosted by the sale of older, more economical 410A systems ahead of the A2L transition. Fourth quarter 2025 results also reflect an 11% increase in average selling price domestically, a 40 basis-point improvement in overall gross margins and improved operating efficiency as evidenced by a 2% reduction in SG&A.
It is important to note that the fourth and first quarters of each calendar year are highly seasonal due to the timing of the replacement of HVAC systems. Results are typically strongest in the second and third quarters, and the Company’s fourth quarter financial results are disproportionately affected by seasonality.
Innovation and Strategic Technology Initiatives
Watsco pioneered the industry’s most comprehensive digital ecosystem, which continues to reshape the industry. The Company has invested more than $250 million in technology over the last five years (an annual current run rate of approximately $60 million) with close to 300 technologists. Highlights of Watsco’s customer-facing platforms include:
Watsco’s HVAC Pro+ Mobile Apps and E-Commerce platform have transformed the customer-experience by providing contractors a seamless digital experience, including sourcing products, accessing technical help, real-time inventory, pricing, product information and more. These tools empower customers to self-serve, place orders 24/7 and benefit from features like intelligent search, dynamic reordering, technical knowledge and product recommendations. The result is a frictionless buying journey, increased convenience and higher customer satisfaction, which we believe drives greater loyalty and repeat business with lower costs to serve. 2025 highlights relative to HVAC Pro+ and e-commerce include:The addition of more than 10,000 new SKUs related to the A2L product launch, including all relevant data concerning features, dimensions, capacities, consumer literature and technical information, including bills of material, warranty information, regulatory match-ups and more.
The authenticated user community of our HVAC Pro+ Mobile Apps increased 15% to approximately 73,000 users.E-commerce sales totaled approximately $2.5 billion during 2025 and comprised 35% of overall sales, with outperforming regions exceeding 60% e-commerce penetration. Order trends and the rate of improvement in customer attrition remain consistent year over year. OnCallAir® is Watsco’s digital sales platform used by HVAC/R contractors to engage, present and quote solutions to homeowners. The gross merchandise value (GMV) of products sold by customers through OnCallAir® was approximately $400 million during the fourth quarter of 2025. For the year ended December 31, 2025, contractors presented quotes to approximately 329,000 households and generated $1.8 billion GMV, a 20% increase versus the year ended December 31, 2024. A.J. Nahmad, Watsco’s President, added: “As we work to further scale our core technology platforms among our customers, we constantly challenge ourselves to find new ways to delight our customers. Earlier this year, we set in motion incremental investments in new platforms that we think will enhance growth with existing customers, attract more new customers and boost profitability in the years ahead. We believe these initiatives hold great promise and we feel that they will enhance Watsco’s already-sizeable competitive advantage in the fragmented HVAC/R industry.”
Cash Flow, Financial Strength and Liquidity
Watsco invested substantially in working capital during 2025 to build inventory to support customers during the A2L transition. Inventory peaked at $2.1 billion during 2025 and declined by 30% to $1.4 billion at December 31, 2025. Operating cash flow was $570 million for the year and a record $400 million for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025, reflecting the sharp reduction in inventory. The Company expects more conventional working capital trends going forward, providing the opportunity for better inventory turns and enhanced returns on invested capital.
The Company’s objective is to maintain a healthy balance sheet that allows access to low-cost capital to fund strategic investments in growth. The Company’s strong financial position has been key to its ability to deliver sustained long-term returns, enabling investments regardless of macroeconomic or industry conditions. The Company’s stated goal is to generate annual operating cash flow in excess of net income consistent with its long-term track record.
Buy & Build Acquisition Strategy
Watsco has partnered with more than 70 independent distributors who have joined the Watsco family, contributing to the Company’s scale and, more importantly, its community of seasoned leaders. During 2025, the Company acquired three distributors in key Sunbelt markets and, since 2019, has acquired 12 companies that today represent approximately $1.6 billion in annualized sales and 120 locations. Our “buy and build” strategy builds upon their long-standing legacies through investment in new locations, new products and by leveraging Watsco’s technology platforms. The HVAC/R distribution landscape in North America remains highly fragmented with more than 2,100 independent distributors.
Full-Year and Fourth Quarter Earnings Conference Call Information
Date and time: February 17, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (ET)
Webcast: http://investors.watsco.com (a replay will be available on the Company’s website)
Dial-in number: United States (844) 883-3908 / International (412) 317-9254
About Watsco
Watsco is the largest distributor in the highly-fragmented North American HVAC/R market. Watsco’s solid financial position and culture of innovation has enabled investments in long-term growth, including the Company’s industry-leading technology platforms. Today, approximately 73,000 contractors, installers and technicians engage digitally with the Company, resulting in improved growth and lower attrition. The Company is now advancing AI-driven initiatives to leverage its extensive data assets to enhance the customer experience and improve efficiencies. These investments position Watsco to capture market share as contractors increasingly adopt digital tools and incorporate data-driven solutions in their businesses.
This document includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may address, among other things, our expected financial and operational results and the related assumptions underlying our expected results. These forward-looking statements are distinguished by use of words such as “will,” “would,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “believe,” “designed,” “plan,” or “intend,” the negative of these terms, and similar references to future periods. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to changes in economic, business, competitive market, new housing starts and completions, capital spending in commercial construction, consumer spending and debt levels, regulatory and other factors, including, without limitation, the effects of supplier concentration, competitive conditions within Watsco’s industry, the seasonal nature of sales of Watsco’s products, the ability of the Company to expand its business, insurance coverage risks and final GAAP adjustments. Detailed information about these factors and additional important factors can be found in the documents that Watsco files with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statements were made. Watsco assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information to reflect actual results, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.
WATSCO, INC.
Condensed Consolidated Results of Operations
(In thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited) Quarter Ended December 31, Year Ended December 31, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Revenues $1,578,757 $1,753,962 $7,239,290 $7,618,317 Cost of sales 1,150,319 1,285,878 5,208,826 5,573,604 Gross profit 428,438 468,084 2,030,464 2,044,713 Gross profit margin 27.1% 26.7% 28.0% 26.8%Selling, general and administrative expenses 332,645 338,489 1,337,882 1,293,439 Other income 5,735 6,593 27,765 30,501 Operating income 101,528 136,188 720,347 781,775 Operating margin 6.4% 7.8% 10.0% 10.3%Interest income, net 5,850 6,713 17,329 20,869 Income before income taxes 107,378 142,901 737,676 802,644 Income taxes 20,328 27,721 150,088 166,904 Net income 87,050 115,180 587,588 635,740 Less: net income attributable to non-controlling interest 15,305 18,339 90,594 99,454 Net income attributable to Watsco, Inc. $71,745 $96,841 $496,994 $536,286 Diluted earnings per share: Net income attributable to Watsco, Inc. shareholders $71,745 $96,841 $496,994 $536,286 Less: distributed and undistributed earnings allocated to restricted common stock 7,998 (1) 7,578 (1) 32,807 37,369 Earnings allocated to Watsco, Inc. shareholders $63,747 $89,263 $464,187 $498,917 Weighted-average Common and Class B common shares and equivalent shares used to calculate diluted earnings per share 37,927,340 37,738,113 37,899,859 37,510,332 Diluted earnings per share for Common and Class B common stock $1.68 (1)$2.37 (1)$12.25 $13.30 (1)The quarterly EPS results reflect dilution of 9 cents per share in 2025 ($3.3 million impact) and 2 cents per share in 2024 ($0.9 million impact) attributable to the amount that (a) dividends actually paid on restricted shares exceeds (b) the net income allocable to restricted common stock. The Company expects this dilutive impact to be seasonal during the first and fourth quarters of each year due to EPS in such periods generally being less than the quarterly dividend rate. WATSCO, INC.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited, in thousands) December 31,
2025 December 31,
2024Cash and cash equivalents $433,283 $526,271Short-term cash investments 300,000 255,669Accounts receivable, net 796,181 877,935Inventories, net 1,386,317 1,385,436Other current assets 38,725 34,670Total current assets 2,954,506 3,079,981Property and equipment, net 136,012 140,535Operating lease right-of-use assets 452,547 419,138Goodwill, intangibles, net and other 871,740 839,869Total assets $4,414,805 $4,479,523 Accounts payable and accrued expenses $600,589 $873,628Current portion of lease liabilities 117,153 110,273Total current liabilities 717,742 983,901Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion 350,616 321,715Deferred income taxes and other liabilities 124,386 109,669Total liabilities 1,192,744 1,415,285Watsco, Inc. shareholders' equity 2,781,376 2,656,990Non-controlling interest 440,685 407,248Total shareholders' equity 3,222,061 3,064,238Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $4,414,805 $4,479,523 WATSCO, INC.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited, in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2025 2024 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income $587,588 $635,740 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 43,752 40,822 Share-based compensation 35,344 35,022 Non-cash contribution to 401(k) plan 8,743 8,735 Provision for doubtful accounts 5,201 4,285 Other, net 18,844 765 Other income from investment in unconsolidated entity (27,765) (30,501)Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions: Accounts receivable, net 83,425 (85,555)Inventories, net 11,957 (41,678)Accounts payable and other liabilities (203,051) 197,765 Other, net 5,575 7,702 Net cash provided by operating activities 569,613 773,102 Cash flows from investing activities: Net purchases of short-term investments (44,331) (255,669)Capital expenditures, net (34,093) (29,828)Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (19,198) (5,173)Other investments (500) — Net cash used in investing activities (98,122) (290,670)Cash flows from financing activities: Dividends on common stock (473,765) (423,521)Distributions to non-controlling interest (132,196) — Net repayments under revolving credit agreement — (15,400)Net proceeds from the sale of Common stock — 281,784 Proceeds from dividend reinvestment plan 21,665 13,224 Other, net 16,180 (14,617)Net cash used in financing activities (568,116) (158,530)Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 3,637 (7,743)Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (92,988) 316,159 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 526,271 210,112 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $433,283 $526,271 Barry S. Logan
Executive Vice President
(305) 714-4102
e-mail: [email protected]
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
GT Biopharma to Present at the Centurion One Capital 9th Annual Toronto Growth Conference
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GT Biopharma, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: GTBP), a clinical stage immuno-oncology company focused on developing innovative therapeutics based on the Company's proprietary TriKE® natural killer (NK) cell engager platform, today announced that Michael Breen, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of GT Biopharma, will be participating in the Centurion One Capital 9th Annual Toronto Growth Conference on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario.
Centurion One Capital 9th Annual Toronto Growth Conference
Format: Presentation, panel discussion and 1x1 investor meetings
Presentation Date: Thursday, March 5th, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM EDT – 5:00 PM EDT
The Company will be available for one-on-one meetings at the conference. If interested, please contact your Centurion One Capital representative.
About GT Biopharma, Inc.
GT Biopharma, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of immuno-oncology therapeutic products based on our proprietary TriKE® NK cell engager platform. Our TriKE® platform is designed to harness and enhance the cancer killing abilities of a patient’s immune system’s natural killer cells. GT Biopharma has an exclusive worldwide license agreement with the University of Minnesota to further develop and commercialize therapies using TriKE® technology. For more information, please visit gtbiopharma.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements" regarding future events and our future results. All statements other than statements of historical facts are statements that could be deemed to be forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about the markets in which we operate and the beliefs and assumptions of our management. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "targets," "goals," "projects", "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "endeavors," "strives," "may," or variations of such words, and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict, estimate or verify. Therefore, actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include those factors described in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, as such may be amended or supplemented by subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, or other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements. For more information, please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
TriKE® is a registered trademark owned by GT Biopharma, Inc.
Change in ADS ratio aimed at simplifying comparisons to ordinary shares traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, while boosting liquidity and access for U.S. investors February 17, 2026 07:30 ET | Source: BrainsWay
BURLINGTON, Mass. and JERUSALEM, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BrainsWay Ltd. (NASDAQ & TASE: BWAY) (“BrainsWay” or the “Company”), a global leader in advanced noninvasive brain stimulation technologies, today announced that its Board of Directors approved a plan to change to the ratio of its American Depositary Shares (ADSs) listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market (“NASDAQ”) relative to its ordinary shares traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. The Company’s Board of Directors believes that aligning the ADS ratio with the ordinary share will simplify the Company’s capital structure and provide investors with a clearer basis for assessing the Company’s valuation.
The Company will adjust its current 2-to-1 ordinary share-to-ADS ratio to a new 1-to-1 structure, effective March 3, 2026. As a result of this change, each existing ADS holder will receive one additional ADS for each ADS held. This ratio change will have the same effect as a 2-for-1 forward split of the ADSs. The Company’s ADSs will continue to trade on the NASDAQ under the symbol “BWAY,” and its ordinary shares, which will not be affected by the ratio change, will continue to trade on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.
The new 1-to-1 ADS to ordinary share ratio will take effect prior to the commencement of trading on the NASDAQ on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Because the ratio change will result in each ADS representing half the number of ordinary shares currently represented by each ADS, the trading price of the ADSs is expected to be divided in half after the ratio change.
“Changing the ADS ratio to align on a one-for-one basis with our ordinary shares is intended to simplify comparisons of our share price on NASDAQ and TASE, allowing for a clearer focus on the value of our rapidly growing business, regardless of the exchange on which investors hold our securities,” said Hadar Levy, Chief Executive Officer of BrainsWay. “It is our hope that the simplified structure may enhance liquidity, improve accessibility, and better reflect the strength of our business.”
ADS holders with ADSs held in book-entry form or through a bank, broker, or other nominee are not required to take any action and will see the impact of the change to the ADS ratio reflected in their accounts after March 3, 2026. Beneficial holders may contact their bank, broker or nominee for more information.
About BrainsWay
BrainsWay is a global leader in advanced noninvasive neurostimulation treatments for mental health disorders. The Company is boldly advancing neuroscience with its proprietary Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS™) platform technology to improve health and transform lives. BrainsWay is the first and only TMS company to obtain three FDA-cleared indications backed by pivotal clinical studies demonstrating clinically proven efficacy. Current indications include major depressive disorder (including reduction of anxiety symptoms, commonly referred to as anxious depression), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and smoking addiction. The Company is dedicated to leading through superior science and building on its unparalleled body of clinical evidence. Additional clinical trials of Deep TMS in various psychiatric, neurological, and addiction disorders are underway. Founded in 2003, with operations in the United States and Israel, BrainsWay is committed to increasing global awareness of and broad access to Deep TMS. For the latest news and information about BrainsWay, please visit www.brainsway.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may be preceded by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “targets,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words, and also includes any financial guidance and projections contained herein. These forward-looking statements and their implications are based on the current expectations of the management of the Company only and are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. In addition, historical results or conclusions from scientific research and clinical studies – especially preliminary data which remains subject to peer-review – do not guarantee that future results would suggest similar conclusions or that historical results referred to herein would be interpreted similarly in light of additional research or otherwise. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: the failure to realize anticipated synergies and other benefits of the proposed transaction; the failure of our investments in management services organizations and/or other clinic-related entities to produce profitable returns; inadequacy of financial resources to meet future capital requirements; changes in technology and market requirements; delays or obstacles in launching and/or successfully completing planned studies and clinical trials; failure to obtain approvals by regulatory agencies on the Company’s anticipated timeframe, or at all; inability to retain or attract key employees whose knowledge is essential to the development of Deep TMS products; unforeseen difficulties with Deep TMS products and processes, and/or inability to develop necessary enhancements; unexpected costs related to Deep TMS products; failure to obtain and maintain adequate protection of the Company’s intellectual property, including intellectual property licensed to the Company; the potential for product liability; changes in legislation and applicable rules and regulations; unfavorable market perception and acceptance of Deep TMS technology; inadequate or delays in reimbursement from third-party payers, including insurance companies and Medicare; inability to commercialize Deep TMS, including internationally, by the Company or through third-party distributors; product development by competitors; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, which could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to differ materially from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements.
Any forward-looking statement in this press release speaks only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company is contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 2a study of SPL026 met its primary endpoint demonstrating a clinically significant reduction in depressive symptoms as measured by MADRS score (mean difference: -7.35) versus placebo at two weeksAntidepressant treatment effects observed within one week and sustained for up to three months Findings reinforce the therapeutic potential of short-acting serotonergic agonists and inform Helus Pharma’s HLP004 development program, with Phase 2 topline data in generalized anxiety disorder (“GAD”) expected in Q1 2026 This news release constitutes a “designated news release” for the purpose of the Company’s prospectus supplement dated December 30, 2025, to it short form base shelf prospectus dated September 17, 2025, as amended on December 19, 2025.
BOSTON and TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Helus Pharma™ (Nasdaq: HELP) (Cboe CA: HELP), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel serotonergic agonists (“NSAs”) for serious mental health conditions, today announced the publication1 in Nature Medicine of results from a Phase 2a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating SPL026, in participants with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder (“MDD”).
The study met its primary endpoint demonstrating statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in depressive symptoms at two weeks, as measured by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (“MADRS”) in participants treated with SPL026 compared with placebo. Reductions in depressive symptoms were observed as early as one week following dosing and were sustained at three months, with effects lasting up to six months in some participants. The treatment was generally well tolerated, with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported.
“We have shown that a single dose of SPL026 is safe, effective and durable, with treatment effects comparable to other promising interventional treatments often requiring much longer treatment sessions.” Dr David Erritzoe, from Imperial’s Department of Brain Sciences, and lead investigator of the trial continued, “Although such early trial results should always be interpreted with some caution, these data show the promise of DMT as a potentially more cost-effective treatment for clinical depression than related serotonergic agonists with longer psychoactive action due to the shorter dosing sessions.”
This phase 2a study evaluated the efficacy and safety of SPL026. Participants receiving a single 21.5 mg dose of SPL026 (n=17) demonstrated a significant reduction in MADRS score compared to placebo (n=17) at two weeks meeting the primary endpoint (mean difference: -7.35; 95%CI, -13.62 to –1.08; p=0.023). The treatment effect of SPL026 was evident at one week (mean difference: -10.75; 95%CI, -16.95 to –4.55; p=0.002). Response rates (≥50% MADRS reduction) at Week 2 were 35% for SPL026 vs. 12% for placebo, with remission rates (MADRS ≤10) at 29% vs. 12%. During the open-label portion of the study, the treatment effect was maintained for up to three months.
“This publication represents an important validation of short-acting serotonergic agonists as a clinically meaningful approach in mental health treatments,” said Michael Cola, Chief Executive Officer of Helus Pharma. “The findings provide clinical proof-of-concept for short-acting serotonergic modulation and further support our conviction that our novel serotonergic agonist molecules, such as HLP004, can potentially deliver meaningful outcomes with greater consistency and commercial feasibility. We look forward to reporting topline data from our Phase 2 study of HLP004 in generalized anxiety disorder later this quarter.”
Although Helus Pharma is not advancing intravenous SPL026 in its current form, the mechanistic and clinical insights generated from this trial continue to inform the Company’s HLP004 development program. Helus is currently advancing HLP004, a proprietary NSA, that is designed to optimize pharmacology, consistency, and scalability for GAD, of which SPL026 is a nondeuterated analog.
1Erritzoe et. al., A short-acting psychedelic intervention for major depressive disorder: randomized placebo-controlled IIa trial of intravenous dimethyltryptamine (DMT), Nature Medicine. DOI 10.1038/s41591-025-04154-z
About the Study
The study was conducted at Hammersmith Medicines Research Ltd (London), MAC Clinical Research (Liverpool), and Imperial College London. This study was conducted by Helus Pharma Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of Helus Pharma and the successor entity to Small Pharma Inc. The study was a phase 2a randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of SPL026, in adults with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder. The trial enrolled 34 participants (mean age 32.8 years, 29.4% female, predominantly white) who had experienced depression for an average of 10.5 years. Participants were randomized in a double-blind manner to receive either a single 21.5 mg intravenous infusion of SPL026 over 10 minutes or placebo, combined with supportive psychotherapy sessions focused on preparation, integration, and emotional processing.
In the blinded Stage 1, the primary endpoint was the change in MADRS scores from baseline to Week 2. Stage 2 was an open-label extension where all participants could receive a second SPL026 dose two weeks later; antidepressant effects persisted up to three months post-first dose.
About Helus Pharma
Helus Pharma™, the commercial operating name of Cybin Inc. (the “Company” or “Helus Pharma”) is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company committed to helping minds heal by developing proprietary NSAs: synthetic molecules designed to activate serotonin pathways that are believed to promote neuroplasticity. The Company’s proprietary NSAs are intended to potentially address the large unmet need for people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
With class leading data, Helus Pharma aims to improve the treatment landscape through the introduction of NSAs that aim to provide durable improvements in mental health. Helus Pharma is currently developing HLP003, a proprietary NSA, in Phase 3 clinical development for the adjunctive treatment of major depressive disorder that has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and HLP004, also a proprietary NSA in Phase 2 for generalized anxiety disorder. Additionally, Helus Pharma has an extensive research portfolio of investigational NSAs.
The Company operates in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland. For Company updates and to learn more about Helus Pharma, visit www.helus.com or follow the team on X, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. Helus Pharma™ is a trademark of Cybin Corp.
Cautionary Notes and Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this news release relating to the Company are forward-looking statements or forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) and are prospective in nature. Forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from the future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “should”, “could”, “potential”, “possible”, “intend”, “estimate”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe” or “continue”, or the negative thereof or similar variations. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the Company’s anticipated topline data readout from the Phase 2 study evaluating HLP004 in GAD in Q1 2026; the promise of SPL026 as a potentially more cost-effective treatment for clinical depression; the ability of the Company’s NSAs to address the large unmet need for people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions; the Company’s notion that novel serotonergic agonist molecules, such as HLP004, can potentially deliver meaningful outcomes with greater consistency and commercial feasibility; and the Company’s plans to engineer proprietary drug discovery platforms, innovative drug delivery systems, novel formulation approaches and treatment regimens for mental health conditions.
These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the NSA market; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for growth; political, social and environmental uncertainties; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions in the markets where the Company operates; implications of disease outbreaks on the Company's operations; and the risk factors set out in each of the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the three and nine month periods ended December 31, 2025, and the Company’s annual information form for the year ended March 31, 2025, which are available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.
The Company makes no medical, treatment or health benefit claims about the Company’s proposed products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Health Canada or other similar regulatory authorities have not evaluated claims regarding NSAs or HLP003, HLP004 and other programs of the Company. The efficacy of such products has not been confirmed by approved research. There is no assurance that the use of NSAs, HLP003, HLP004 or other programs of the Company can diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Rigorous scientific research and clinical trials are needed. If Helus Pharma cannot obtain the approvals or research necessary to commercialize its business, it may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s performance and operations.
Neither Cboe Canada, nor the Nasdaq Global Market stock exchange, have approved or disapproved the contents of this news release and are not responsible for the adequacy and accuracy of the contents herein.
February 17, 2026 07:30 ET | Source: BriaCell Therapeutics Corp.
Independent DSMB has identified no safety concerns, and recommends continuation of BriaCell’s pivotal Phase 3 study of Bria-IMT™ plus immune check point inhibitorFifth consecutive positive DSMB recommendation supports the favorable safety profile observed to datePhase 3 study is being conducted under FDA Fast Track Designation, reflecting the significant unmet need in metastatic breast cancer
PHILADELPHIA and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BriaCell Therapeutics Corp. (Nasdaq: BCTX, BCTXW, BCTXZ, BCTXL) (TSX: BCT) (“BriaCell” or the “Company”), clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel immunotherapies to transform cancer care, announces that the independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) has issued its fifth consecutive positive recommendation following review of safety data from BriaCell’s pivotal Phase 3 Bria-ABC study of Bria-IMT plus immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) in patients with metastatic breast cancer (NCT06072612).
Following its review, the DSMB raised no safety concerns and recommended that the study continue without modifications. DSMB meetings occur quarterly in accordance with the study protocol. BriaCell’s ongoing pivotal Phase 3 study is being conducted under Fast Track designation granted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), reflecting the significant unmet medical need in metastatic breast cancer.
“This marks the fifth consecutive DSMB review supporting the continued conduct of BriaCell’s pivotal Phase 3 Bria-ABC study,” said Dr. William V. Williams, President and Chief Executive Officer of BriaCell. “We are encouraged by the DSMB’s ongoing confirmation of the safety profile of the Bria-IMT regimen and remain focused on advancing this program for patients with limited treatment options. We look forward to providing additional clinical updates as the study progresses.”
About BriaCell Therapeutics Corp.
BriaCell is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that develops novel immunotherapies to transform cancer care. More information is available at https://briacell.com/.
Safe Harbor
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements, including those about Bria-IMT’s safety and tolerability profile; the continued conduct and advancement of BriaCell’s pivotal Phase 3 Bria‑ABC study under FDA Fast Track designation; and Bria-IMT’s potential as a transformative immunotherapy for patients with metastatic breast cancer, are based on BriaCell’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements, such as those are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully under the heading “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form, and under “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s other filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, all of which are available under the Company's profiles on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and BriaCell Therapeutics Corp. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.
Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Contact Information
Company Contact:
William V. Williams, MD
President & CEO
1-888-485-6340 [email protected]
CLEVELAND, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sotera Health Company (Nasdaq: SHC), a leading global provider of mission-critical end-to-end sterilization solutions, lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry, today announced its plans to release its financial results for the fourth-quarter and full-year ended December 31, 2025 before the market opens on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Following the release, management will hold a conference call at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the Company’s operating highlights and financial results.
A live webcast of the conference call and accompanying materials can be accessed via the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at Presentation & Events | Sotera Health. A replay of the webcast will be available later in the day on February 24.
Updates can be found from time to time on recent developments in matters relevant to investors on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at Investor Relations | Sotera Health. For developments related to Ethylene Oxide, updates can be found at Ethylene Oxide | Sotera Health.
About Sotera Health
Sotera Health Company is a leading global provider of mission-critical end-to-end sterilization solutions, lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry. Sotera Health goes to market through three businesses – Sterigenics®, Nordion® and Nelson Labs®. Sotera Health is committed to its mission, Safeguarding Global Health®.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brixton Metals Corporation (TSX-V: BBB, OTCQB: BBBXF) (the “Company” or “Brixton”) announces that further to its news release dated February 6, 2026, the Company has received the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”) for, and is proceeding with, a consolidation (the “Consolidation”) of its issued and outstanding common shares on the basis of one post-consolidation common share (“Post-Consolidation Shares”) for every ten pre-consolidation common shares (“Pre-Consolidation Shares”).
The Consolidation was approved by the shareholders of the Company at the Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders of the Company held on February 4, 2026.
The Post-Consolidation Shares will commence trading on the TSXV at the market open on February 20, 2026 (the “Effective Date”), under the existing symbol “BBB”.
The new CUSIP will be 11120Q708 and the new ISIN number will be CA11120Q7084. There will be no name change in association with the Consolidation.
Following the share consolidation, Brixton will have approximately 71,323,542 common shares issued and outstanding.
No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Consolidation. Any fractional interest in shares resulting from the Consolidation that is less than 0.5 of a common share will be rounded down to the nearest whole share and any fractional interest in common shares resulting from the Consolidation that is 0.5, or greater, of a common share will be rounded up to the nearest whole share.
The Company’s transfer agent, TSX Trust Company (“TSX Trust”), will mail a letter of transmittal to registered shareholders of the Company providing instructions on exchanging Pre-Consolidation Share certificates for Post-Consolidation Share certificates or Direct Registration System (DRS) advices. Shareholders are encouraged to send their share certificates, together with their letter of transmittal, to TSX Trust in accordance with the instructions in the letter of transmittal.
About Brixton Metals Corporation
Brixton Metals is a Canadian exploration company focused on the advancement of its mining projects. Brixton wholly owns four exploration projects: Brixton’s flagship Thorn copper-gold-silver-molybdenum Project, the Hog Heaven copper-silver-gold Project in NW Montana, USA, which is optioned to Ivanhoe Electric Inc., the Langis and HudBay silver Projects in Ontario and the Atlin Goldfields Project located in northwest BC, which is optioned to Eldorado Gold Corporation. Brixton Metals Corporation shares trade on the TSX-V under the ticker symbol BBB, and on the OTCQB under the ticker symbol BBBXF. For more information about Brixton, please visit our website at www.brixtonmetals.com.
For Investor Relations inquiries please contact: Mr. Michael Rapsch, Vice President Investor Relations. email: [email protected] or call Tel: 604-630-9707
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Neither the TSX Venture Exchange 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.
Information set forth in this news release may involve forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past, events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, and “intend”, statements that an action or event “may”, “might”, “could”, “should”, or “will” be taken or occur, including statements that address potential quantity and/or grade of minerals, potential size and expansion of a mineralized zone, proposed timing of exploration and development plans, or other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following risks: the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mineral exploration; fluctuations in commodity prices; title matters; and the additional risks identified in the annual information form of the Company or other reports and filings with the TSXV and applicable Canadian securities regulators. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
Zebra Technologies' Shares Trade At An Appealing Discount Though May Face Economic Uncertainty
Zebra Technologies is rated Buy with a $350/share target, reflecting long-term margin improvement potential despite near-term memory chip and retail headwinds. ZBRA exited robotics, incurring an $80M impairment, to focus on vertically integrated solutions and capitalize on machine vision, RFID, digital POS/kiosks, and mobile computers. Management expects margin pressure from memory pricing in 2026; I'm forecasting pressure to ease into 2027 as new chip capacity comes online, supporting a margin-accretive rebound.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
Cronos Launches New All-in-One Vape, Spinach PUFFERZ™
TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) (“Cronos”), an innovative global cannabinoid company, announced today the launch of its newest all-in-one (AIO) vape, Spinach PUFFERZ™. The latest innovation under Cronos’ Spinach® brand brings together high-quality cannabis infused with liquid diamonds in a convenient all-in-one device.
Crafted for modern cannabis consumers who value functionality and design, Spinach PUFFERZ™ offers a seamless way to enjoy high-quality cannabis vape extracts and bold flavors. Every design element was carefully considered to deliver a differentiated experience. Spinach PUFFERZ™ is Cronos' first AIO vape featuring the increasingly popular palm-style hardware. The device boasts a uniquely satisfying squishy grip with a puffy exterior, a dual ceramic coil for maximum flavor and smooth draws, a boost button for temperature control, and a battery meter to indicate when a charge is needed.
“Our leadership in the Canadian cannabis marketplace is driven by our relentless pursuit of excellence in product quality, innovation, and differentiation,” said Mike Gorenstein, Chairman, President and CEO of Cronos. “We are focused on building brand loyalty with fantastic products, and our newest all-in-one vape is a device that looks, feels, and tastes great. The launch of Spinach PUFFERZ™ demonstrates our ability to continuously find new ways to innovate and create new cannabis experiences.”
Spinach PUFFERZ™ all-in-one 1g vapes will launch in three flavors, each infused with liquid diamonds and delivering 98.1% THC:
Spinach PUFFERZ™ Sour Blue Razz (Hybrid) Inspired by a strain with Blue CKS x Mendobreath lineage and featuring berry and citrus flavor notes Spinach PUFFERZ™ Tropical AF (Sativa) Inspired by a strain with Pink Rozay and White Runtz lineage and featuring tropical and fruity flavor notes Spinach PUFFERZ™ Pineapple Coconut (Indica) Inspired by a strain with LA Cush CK and Coco Milk lineage and featuring a combo of fruity and vanilla flavor notes “Our teams have been unwavering in their commitment to elevating our vape portfolio with products and flavors that truly connect with consumers,” said Jeff Jacobson, Chief Growth Officer, Cronos. “We’re incredibly excited to introduce a standout innovation like Spinach PUFFERZ™ at a time when the all‑in‑one category is experiencing remarkable momentum. As one of Canada’s leading cannabis vape brands, we’re proud to help shape the category and remain dedicated to delivering memorable products that keep Spinach® top‑of‑mind with cannabis consumers,” Mr. Jacobson added.
Available now in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario, Spinach PUFFERZ™ will be available nationally by April 2026. For more information and product availability, visit https://spinachcannabis.com/. To learn more about Spinach PUFFERZ™ and stay up-to-date on Spinach® products, follow @spinachwithfriends on Instagram.
About Cronos Group Inc.
Cronos is an innovative global cannabinoid company committed to building disruptive intellectual property by advancing cannabis research, technology and product development. With a passion to responsibly elevate the consumer experience, Cronos is building an iconic brand portfolio. Cronos’ diverse international brand portfolio includes Spinach®, PEACE NATURALS® and Lord Jones®. For more information about Cronos and its brands, please visit: thecronosgroup.com.
Forward-looking Statements
This press release may contain information that may constitute “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws and court decisions (collectively, “Forward-looking Statements”). All information contained herein that is not clearly historical in nature may constitute Forward-looking Statements. In some cases, Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “potential”, “estimate”, “believe” or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify Forward-looking Statements. Some of the Forward-looking Statements contained in this press release include statements about future product availability and rollout timing; market trends and demand in the all-in-one cannabis vape category; brand positioning, growth, and leadership; innovation strategy and execution; and anticipated consumer response to Spinach PUFFERZ™; and the Company’s intention to build an international iconic brand portfolio and develop disruptive intellectual property by advancing cannabis research, technology and product development. Forward-looking Statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks. Financial results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by those Forward-looking Statements and the Forward-looking Statements are not guarantees of future performance. A discussion of some of the material risks applicable to the Company can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2025, June 30, 2025 and September 30, 2025, each of which have been filed on SEDAR+ and EDGAR and can be accessed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively. Any Forward-looking Statement included in this press release is made as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, Cronos disclaims any obligation to update or revise any Forward-looking Statement. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on any Forward-looking Statement.
Strong market and industry tailwinds are forming around Capstone as the Company targets margin expansion and a positive EBITDA run-rate beginning in Q2 2026.
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / February 17, 2026 / Capstone Holding Corp. (NASDAQ:CAPS), a tech-enabled building products distribution platform, highlighted new industry research from Zonda showing that deferred home-remodeling activity is accumulating into a multi-year demand cycle. Zonda forecasts 3.6% market growth in 2026, accelerating to 8.1% in 2027.
This demand outlook aligns with Capstone's platform capabilities and is expected to drive margin expansion and operating leverage. The Company remains on track to reach a positive EBITDA run-rate beginning in the second quarter.
"We're emerging from a prolonged period of deferred construction and remodeling activity. While our peers pulled back, we invested-building a tech-enabled platform with significant scale and supply chain advantages," said Matthew Lipman, Chief Executive Officer of Capstone. "As we enter a new demand cycle, there is no company better positioned than Capstone to lead the market. We are very confident in the project-driven growth we expect to capture in the periods ahead."
Key Highlights:
Improving Spend and Project Activity: Capstone enters the second half of 2026 with favorable year-over-year comparisons, improving premium customer spend, and projected growth across outdoor and exterior project categories.
Demand Cycle With Historical Precedent: The current deferral cycle closely mirrors conditions seen in the early 1980s, which preceded the largest expansions in U.S. mobility, remodeling, and DIY spending in history.
Growth Accretive to Margins: Capstone enters this demand cycle with established scale, technology, and supply chain advantages. As volumes recover, incremental growth is expected to be directly accretive to margins, reinforcing the Company's profitability trajectory.
AI-Native Operating Efficiencies: Capstone is actively transitioning toward an AI-native operating model, with initiatives expected to deliver measurable efficiency gains and profitability uplift across its distribution portfolio.
Multiple Tailwinds Converging: Improving economic visibility, a constructive outlook for small-cap equities, and an emerging industry demand cycle are combining to create the strongest forward tailwind environment the Company has seen in years.
Zonda's industry research represents the latest data point supporting Capstone's forward-looking outlook, alongside a set of broader structural tailwinds. These include expectations for accelerating small-cap earnings growth in 2026. Bank of America strategist Jill Carey Hall has forecast 17% earnings growth for small-cap companies, compared with 14% for large-cap peers.
"It's an important moment for our business," Lipman added. "We entered 2026 focused on converting the scale we've built into margin expansion and profitable growth, and we are executing that transition with speed and discipline as market conditions improve."
Capstone expects to publish an Earnings Power Presentation in the first quarter of 2026, outlining the impact of these initiatives and management's vision for building a full-stack AI leader in the building products sector.
About Capstone Holding Corp.
Capstone Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: CAPS) is a national, technology-enabled building products distribution platform optimizing supply chains across 38 U.S. states and Canada. Through its Instone operating platform and inventory portal, the Company aggregates and delivers proprietary stone veneer, hardscape materials, and modular masonry systems. Capstone's model combines digital infrastructure, owned-inventory logistics, and disciplined acquisitions to drive scalable margin expansion and operating leverage across its growing platform.
This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to future events and performance, including guidance regarding revenue and EBITDA targets, M&A strategy, use of capital, and operating outlook. Actual results may differ materially from those projected due to a range of factors, including but not limited to acquisition timing, macroeconomic conditions, and execution risks. Please review the Company's filings with the SEC for a full discussion of risk factors. Capstone undertakes no obligation to revise forward-looking statements except as required by law.
SOURCE: Capstone Holding Corp.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3024d ago
Klarna has 3,000 employees. The CEO says he expects that to be down to less than 2,000 employees by 2030.
Klarna CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski. John Phillips/Getty Images for SXSW London 2026-02-17T12:30:15.149Z
The cofounder and CEO of Klarna predicts that the firm's workforce will be less than 2,000 by 2030. Klarna has already reduced its workforce by 50% through a hiring slowdown and AI adoption. Siemiatkowski said jobs based on "human connection" will remain. Klarna's workforce has halved in the last four years, but its CEO and cofounder says it isn't done shrinking yet.
In an interview with Harry Stebbings on the "20 VC" podcast on Monday, CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski talked through the impact of AI and how he expects Klarna's workforce to drop below 2,000 employees by 2030.
He said there are about 3,000 employees at the company right now, down from 7,000 in 2022. This reduction is due to layoffs and "natural attrition" — where employees leave the company, and their roles are not replaced, he said.
"Occasionally, we hire somebody here and there," he said, but if you "go to LinkedIn and look at the insights, you're going to see how the company is shrinking."
Siemiatkowski said he has seen the speed at which AI is improving and believes these technologies can be integrated into the company without expanding the head count.
Klarna declined to comment further when contacted by Business Insider.
Siemiatkowski's comments come as the debate around the extent to which AI will replace jobs intensifies.
While Tesla and xAI CEO Elon Musk has said AI will create abundance for all, other tech CEOs have a more gloomy outlook.
Anthropic's CEO Dario Amodei has warned about the impact AI could have on society, writing that it presents "a serious civilizational challenge" in his January essay on the future of technology. Amodei has also said that he believes AI could cut 50% of all white-collar entry-level jobs.
"I'm more in Dario's camp," Siemiatkowski said on Monday. "I want to be honest about the fact that I do think there's going to be a very big shift."
"I'm an optimist at heart, but I also want to be a realist around what's going to happen in the shorter term, and it's going to be a lot of turmoil in this," he said of AI's impact on jobs.
Some major companies, such as IBM, HP, and Salesforce, have already signaled they are cutting jobs because of AI.
Siemiatkowski said that jobs at Klarna involving "human connection," such as relationships with retailers, will not be replaced by AI.
"It's going to be vital to offer a human connection there. So those jobs will remain, but for the rest it's going to be definitely smaller," he said.
Do you work for Klarna and have a tip or story to share? Contact this reporter via email at [email protected] or Signal at @royashahidi.36. Use a personal email address and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, but may initiate a beneficial Long position through a purchase of the stock, or the purchase of call options or similar derivatives in MSTR over the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3124d ago
Leidos misses quarterly revenue estimates on government shutdown impact
Defense contractor Leidos Holdings reported fourth-quarter revenue below Wall Street estimates, as the six-week long U.S. government shutdown last year weighed on the firm's orders.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3224d ago
Market expert warns Tesla stock could crash to $217
Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) stock is approaching a critical technical inflection point that could determine whether the recent pullback stabilizes or accelerates into a deeper correction.
In a February 17 post on X, market analyst Ali Martinez identified $399 as a key support level for TSLA shares. Should the electric vehicle (EV) giant plunge below the critical price, it would face a series of rapidly descending supports until finally hitting $217.
Specifically, Martinez warned that a decisive break below $399 could expose TSLA stock to decisively lower level technical targets at $325, $266, and $217.
Why Tesla stock is unlikely to crash to $217 Fortunately for Tesla shareholders, the support zones identified by Martinez appear relatively unlikely to be breached in the foreseeable future. Elon Musk’s EV company has, so far, been relatively successful at avoiding catastrophic crashes even in the wake of extremely bearish developments.
Notably, the 4.71% decline in the year-to-date (YTD) chart is arguably modest, given it came amidst dire reports of a 2025 global decline in sales and the garish January figures for vehicle registrations in Europe.
Tesla stock price YTD chart. Source: Google Still, remaining vigilant regarding sudden TSLA stock moves would be prudent. Last year was notable for a broad slowdown in the entire EV industry.
Why Tesla stock is at risk of a 2026 crash Elon Musk’s turbulent yet close relationship with the Trump White House was all but bound to damage sales in Europe, given the American administration’s increasingly antagonistic attitude toward the EU.
Similarly, the President’s opposition to policies aimed at boosting EV sales was bound to affect the industry in the U.S.
While such shocks might, arguably, not be seen as concerning, especially since they have not yet led to a catastrophic downturn, the fact that other major companies are seeing a more global decline in volume strongly indicates that Tesla stock remains in danger.
Case in point, China’s BYD, one of the strongest EV companies in the world, recently announced a significant slowdown.
Such a setup could be especially dangerous for TSLA shares.
Though the company has been lagging on the business side throughout last year and had multiple occasions where a stock market crash was prevented merely by earnings reports not being as dire as most traders feared, Tesla’s equity is actually up 17.88% in the 12-month chart.
Tesla stock price 12-month chart. Source: Google This discrepancy is, arguably, making TSLA stock particularly vulnerable to adverse developments such as the loss of the Martinez-identified critical support at $399.
Featured image via Shutterstock
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3324d ago
Technology Dashboard For February And Focus On BCTK ETF
SummarySoftware and IT services are undervalued relative to 11-year averages, while semiconductors and hardware remain notably overvalued.Baron Technology ETF is a new, actively managed, high-conviction tech fund with a 0.75% expense ratio and 40 holdings.BCTK is overweight in semiconductors (36%), uses a broader sector scope than XLK, and has strong growth characteristics.Seven tech stocks were cheaper than their peers in February.Quantitative Risk & Value members get exclusive access to our real-world portfolio. See all our investments here » Alexander Sikov/iStock via Getty Images
This monthly article series offers a top-down analysis of the information technology sector based on value, quality, and momentum metrics. It may also help analyze sector ETFs such as the Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of AMZN, GOOGL, META either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3324d ago
WMB Analyst Day: Power & Pipe to Drive Robust Growth
Summary Williams (WMB) is guiding to a 10+% compound annual growth rate for adjusted EBITDA to 2030, driven by power and transmission projects. WMB announced a fourth behind-the-meter power project. Its backlog of power opportunities represents 3x the combined gigawatts of its four sanctioned projects. WMB has 13 transmission (pipeline) projects underway, with a significant backlog of additional opportunities representing $15 billion in potential growth capital. Since its last analyst day in February 2024, some elements of the Williams (WMB) story are very much the same. It still has a track record for solid EBITDA growth, strong project execution and an extensive natural gas pipeline footprint. Other elements of the story are newer, including an exciting power innovations business, expected to contribute significantly to a double-digit growth rate for adjusted EBITDA to 2030. This note discusses key takeaways from Williams’ analyst day last week. Williams is a component of the S&P 500 and a key constituent of Alerian midstream indexes, including the Alerian Midstream Energy Select Index (AMEI).
WMB Raises Long-Term EBITDA Growth Outlook For years, WMB pointed to a long-term adjusted EBITDA growth target of 5–7%. From 2020 to 2025, the company actually delivered a 9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for EBITDA. Notably, this growth was achieved in a more muted backdrop for natural gas than we have today. Specifically, demand growth tailwinds are likely to be more prevalent in the coming years, driven by rising liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and demand for power generation. WMB highlighted a U.S. natural gas demand growth forecast of 39 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) to 2035, including 20 Bcf/d for LNG exports and 10 Bcf/d for power.
For 2025 to 2030, management has guided to a 10+% CAGR for adjusted EBITDA. Broadly speaking, the growth is coming from “power and pipe.” Management noted that projects already in execution today can underwrite an 8% CAGR in adjusted EBITDA to 2030. As discussed below, WMB has a significant backlog in both power and pipe beyond sanctioned projects, adding confidence to the growth trajectory to 2030 and byeond. Management plans to continue growing the dividend, with near-term increases likely to remain consistent with the 5% annual growth of recent years.
Specific to 2026, WMB initiated an adjusted EBITDA guidance range of $8.05–$8.25 billion, representing 6% growth relative to 2025 at the midpoint. However, management pointed to 7% growth if normalized for asset sales. WMB also expects to spend $6.4 billion in growth capital this year. Spending will largely be directed to high-return, take-or-pay projects, namely four power projects (~$4 billion for this year) and key transmission projects.
Power: New Project Added, Terms Extended, & a Robust Backlog Some of the key announcements from the analyst day revolved around Williams’ behind-the-meter power business, which is serving data centers. Notably, the company added Socrates the Younger, a 340-megawatt natural gas power project in Ohio, backed by a 10-year agreement and expected online in 2H28. Additionally, the Aquila and Apollo projects in Utah and Ohio, respectively, were upsized and extended to 12.5-year terms from 10 years. The original Socrates project in Ohio for Meta (META) remains on track for completion later in 2026. WMB is investing over $7 billion in these projects. Management has cited a 5x multiple for power projects, implying 20% returns.
In addition to the four projects already announced (1.9 gigawatts combined), WMB has another 6 gigawatts in its backlog, which can support opportunities into the 2030s. Notably, WMB has secured major equipment for the backlog already. Management explained that their initial advantage in the power space was access to turbines, but as projects are executed, their edge relative to competitors will come from solid execution. Management noted a growing recognition that tailored power solutions will be needed by hyperscalers for the long term.
A potentially underappreciated element of the power business is its eligibility for 100% bonus depreciation, which is not the case for regulated natural gas pipelines. Overall, WMB expects $100 million in cash taxes this year but no cash taxes in 2027.
Pipe: Transmission Backlog Grows While the power opportunity is new and exciting, the transmission (or long-haul natural gas pipeline) business remains WMB’s most valuable segment, with Transco the crown jewel. As a reminder, Transco stretches from Texas to New York, transporting ~15% of the nation’s natural gas. Currently, WMB has 13 transmission projects underway, representing 7.1 Bcf/d of capacity. WMB is on track to grow its delivery capacity by just over 20% from 2025 to 2030 with these projects, reflecting the significant natural gas demand growth on tap for the coming years.
Additionally, WMB boasts an impressive backlog, with another 14.3 Bcf/d of opportunity representing ~$15 billion in potential capital spend. Over the past year, the backlog has grown by over 5 Bcf/d. That translates to more than $3 billion in terms of capex. The rising backlog again reflects the strength of demand growth. While transmission projects are demand-pull opportunities, management noted that these projects and rising demand will drive more volumes into their gathering & processing (G&P) businesses, particularly in the Haynesville.
So What? The 10+% CAGR for adjusted EBITDA to 2030 is a key headline from the analyst day. However, it’s also important to note how the business mix is expected to change, as shown below. G&P, which tends to be more sensitive to commodity price moves and production trends, will become a smaller part of the business. Transmission, Power & Gulf will become the majority of the business. By 2030, more than 60% of WMB’s adjusted EBITDA is anticipated to come from long-term, take-or-pay contracts. High-grading the business mix is a key element of the story and can support a stronger valuation over time given transmission trades at higher multiples than G&P businesses.
Source: Williams 2026 Analyst Day Presentation
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2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3523d ago
McFarlane Lake Mining Commences Trading on Frankfurt Exchange and Announces Participation in Upcoming Investor Conferences
TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- McFarlane Lake Mining Limited (“McFarlane” or the “Company”) (CSE: MLM, OTC: MLMLF, FRA: W2Z), is pleased to announce the Company commenced trading on the Frankfurt Exchange under the Symbol FRA: W2Z. This listing forms part of the Company’s broader strategy to expand investor awareness of its flagship Juby Gold Project across North America and Europe.
The Company will also participate in several upcoming investor conferences, including the Red Cloud Pre-PDAC 2026 Mining Showcase (February 26–27, 2026), the PDAC 2026 Convention (March 1–4, 2026), and the Precious Metals Summit 1x1 Meetings Program.
“Listing on the Frankfurt Exchange strengthens our access to international capital and reflects the growing interest in the Juby Gold Project,” said Mark Trevisiol, President & CEO. “With several key investor conferences ahead, we’re excited to connect directly with the market and highlight the momentum we’re building.”
The Red Cloud Pre-PDAC Mining Showcase will be held in person at the Omni King Edward Hotel in Toronto. The event brings together mining companies and institutional investors for presentations, networking, and one-on-one meetings. President & CEO Mark Trevisiol will present on February 26th at 2:40pm ET.
The PDAC remains the world’s leading mineral exploration and mining convention, attracting global industry participants, investors, and analysts. As part of PDAC 2026, McFarlane will participate in the Precious Metals Summit Investor Exchange at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on March 2–3, where management will meet with qualified institutional investors.
Members of the Company’s management team will be available throughout the conference week to discuss recent developments and near-term plans for the Juby Gold Project.
Investors interested in meeting with management or learning more about McFarlane Lake Mining are encouraged to contact [email protected].
About McFarlane Lake Mining Limited
McFarlane Lake Mining Limited is a Canadian gold exploration company focused on advancing its flagship Juby Gold Project, located near Gowganda, Ontario, within the established Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Juby Gold Project hosts a current (effective September 29, 2025) NI 43-101 compliant Mineral Resource Estimate (“MRE”) of 1.01 million ounces of gold in the Indicated category at an average grade of 0.98 g/t gold (31.74 million tonnes) and an additional 3.17 million ounces of gold in the Inferred category at an average grade of 0.89 g/t gold (109.48 million tonnes). The estimate was calculated using a long-term gold price of US$2,500 per ounce, applying cut-off grades of 0.25 g/t gold for open pit and 1.85 g/t gold for underground resources.
A sensitivity analysis completed at a higher gold price of US$3,750 per ounce resulted in an Indicated Mineral Resource of 1.20 million ounces grading 0.94 g/t gold (39.51 million tonnes) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 4.23 million ounces grading 0.85 g/t gold (154.50 million tonnes) applying cut-off grades of 0.25 g/t gold for open pit and 1.15 g/t gold for underground resources.
The independent MRE was prepared by BBA E&C Inc. in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The full technical report supporting the resource estimate was filed on SEDAR+ on November 21, 2025, and is also available on the Company’s website www.mcfarlanelakemining.com.
McFarlane is actively executing an exploration drilling program and additional technical studies at the Juby Project to further evaluate and advance this large-scale gold system.
In addition to Juby, McFarlane holds a portfolio of 100%-owned gold assets across Ontario, including the past-producing McMillan Gold Mine and Mongowin properties located approximately 70 kilometres west of Sudbury and the Michaud/Munro properties located 115 kilometres east of Timmins. McFarlane Lake Mining Limited is a reporting issuer in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Readers are cautioned to refer to the “Cautionary Statement on Mineral Resources” and all other disclaimers included in this news release for important information regarding the limitations and verification status of the data presented above and elsewhere herein.
To learn more, visit: https://mcfarlanelakemining.com/.
Additional information on McFarlane can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.
Further Information
For further information regarding McFarlane, please contact:
Mark Trevisiol,
Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
McFarlane Lake Mining Limited
(705) 665-5087 [email protected]
The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Qualified Person
Technical information was reviewed by Mark Trevisiol P.Eng., an officer of McFarlane and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101.
This news release contains “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements relating to the timeline for the completion of the transaction, the ability of McFarlane to satisfy or waive closing conditions under the Agreement, including receipt of required regulatory and third-party approvals. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “believes” or “intends”, or variations of such words and phrases, or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of McFarlane to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated as of November 27, 2024, which is available for view on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and McFarlane disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management’s estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise.
There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Cautionary Statement on Mineral Resources
This news release uses the terms indicated and inferred mineral resources as a relative measure of the level of confidence in the resource estimate. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources are not mineral reserves and that the economic viability of resources that are not mineral reserves has not been demonstrated. The mineral resource estimates disclosed in this news release may be materially affected by geology, environmental, permitting, legal, title, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issues. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to an indicated or measured mineral resource category, however, it is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. The mineral resource estimate is classified in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum’s “CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves” incorporated by reference into NI 43-101. Under NI 43-101, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies or economic studies except for preliminary economic assessments. Readers are cautioned not to assume that further work on the stated resources will lead to mineral reserves that can be mined economically.
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:3623d ago
UnionPay Cardholders Gain Access to Cash at NCR Atleos Cashzone ATMs Across the UK
ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NCR Atleos Corporation (NYSE: NATL) (“Atleos”), a leader in expanding self-service financial access for financial institutions, retailers and consumers, today announced that UnionPay cardholders can now withdraw cash at thousands of Cashzone ATMs across the UK, timed to coincide with Chinese New Year celebrations.
UnionPay is one of the world’s largest card schemes with card issuance in 84 countries and regions. Headquartered in Shanghai, it is also the major domestic card network in China. Through this collaboration, NCR Atleos has enabled UnionPay cardholders to access cash conveniently at up to 13,000 Cashzone ATMs, concentrated in high-traffic and tourist locations across the UK.
The enhancement comes as Chinese visitors continue to be a vital segment for UK retailers and attractions, with annual spending exceeding £720 million, according to VisitBritain. For UnionPay cardholders, easy cash access in the UK simplifies everyday purchases, tipping and cash-preferred experiences—helping travelers budget confidently and navigate the country with greater convenience. For UK tourist destinations, retailers and restaurants, dependable cash access for UnionPay cardholders supports higher footfall, incremental spend and stronger local commerce in the busiest travel corridors.
“Reliable cash access is essential for UnionPay cardholders when traveling to the UK—especially for transactions where cash remains preferred,” said James Yang, Executive Vice President of European Region, UnionPay International. “With NCR Atleos enabling withdrawals across the UK’s most-visited areas, our cardholders can plan their trips with confidence and convenience.”
“We’re delighted to welcome UnionPay cardholders to the NCR Atleos Cashzone network across the UK,” said Neil Martin, Area Managing Director for the UK at NCR Atleos. “This capability—delivered to coincide with Chinese New Year—means visitors can rely on convenient, secure cash access wherever their travels take them, and it’s another example of how our network adapts quickly to expand access to cash.”
The rollout underscores the ability of NCR Atleos to rapidly implement global card schemes across its network, delivering operational excellence and innovative solutions for financial institutions, retailers and consumers—while supporting financial inclusion and tourism-driven local commerce.
About UnionPay International
UnionPay International (UPI) focuses on the international business of UnionPay, a global payment network. Collaborating with over 2,600 partners globally, UnionPay acceptance now reaches 183 countries and regions. Outside the Chinese Mainland, UnionPay is accepted at nearly 75 million merchants and 1.7 million ATMs.
UnionPay International provides high quality, cost effective and secure cross-border payment services to the world's largest cardholder base and ensures convenient local services to a growing number of global UnionPay cardholders and merchants. For more information, visit www.unionpayintl.com.
About NCR Atleos
NCR Atleos (NYSE: NATL) is the leader in expanding self-service financial access, with industry-leading ATM expertise and experience, unrivaled operational scale including the largest independently-owned ATM network, always-on global services and constant innovation. NCR Atleos improves operational efficiency for financial institutions, drives footfall for retailers and enables digital-first financial self-service experiences for consumers. NCR Atleos is ranked #12 in Newsweek’s prestigious 2025 Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces® list. NCR Atleos is headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., with approximately 20,000 employees globally. For more information, visit www.ncratleos.com.
Regina, Saskatchewan--(Newsfile Corp. - February 17, 2026) - Above Food Ingredients Inc. (NASDAQ: ABVE) (the "Company") today announced that on February 3, 2026, in accordance with expectations, it received a staff determination letter from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC ("Nasdaq") indicating that the Company is not currently in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250(c)(2) due to the delay in filing its interim financial statements for the six-month period ended July 31, 2025. The interim financial statements for the six-month period ended July 31, 2025 have already been completed, and will be filed within one week following the filing of the audited annual financial statements included in the Company's Form 20-F.
COLDWATER, Mich., Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc. (OTC Pink: SOMC) announced fourth quarter 2025 net income of $2,912,000, or $0.62 per share, an increase of $262,000, or 9.9%, compared to net income of $2,650,000, or $0.57 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2024. Southern earned $12,215,000, or $2.63 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2025, an increase of $1,813,000, or 17.4%, compared to net income of $10,402,000, or $2.28 per share, for the same period of 2024.
The annualized return on average assets for the years ended December 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, was 0.77% and 0.71%, respectively. The annualized return on average equity for the years ended December 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, was 10.64% and 10.07%, respectively. The tax equivalent net interest margin for the year ended December 31, 2025 was 3.22% compared to 2.98% for the same period of 2024.
John R. Waldron, President and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc., stated, “We are pleased to announce another solid quarter of earnings and growth. For 2025, we achieved loan growth of 14.1%, deposit growth of 13.2% and total asset growth of 13.0%.”
The allowance for credit losses totaled $15,553,000, or 1.22% of loans on December 31, 2025. Net loan charge-offs totaled $53,000 for 2025, compared to $28,000 for 2024. Non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans were 0.98% as of December 31, 2025, and 0.08% as of December 31, 2024.
Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc. is a bank holding company and the parent company of Southern Michigan Bank & Trust. It operates 18 offices within Branch, Calhoun, Hillsdale, Jackson, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph Counties providing a broad range of consumer, business and wealth management services throughout the region.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections about the financial services industry, the economy, and Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc. Forward-looking statements are identifiable by words or phrases such as “expected,” “begin,” and other similar words or expressions. All statements with reference to a future time period are forward-looking. Management’s determination of the provision and allowance for credit losses and other accounting estimates, such as the carrying value of goodwill, other real estate owned, mortgage servicing rights and the fair value of investment securities, involves judgments that are inherently forward-looking. The future effect of changes in the financial and credit markets and the national and regional economy on the banking industry, generally, and Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc., specifically, are also inherently uncertain. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions ("risk factors") that are difficult to predict with regard to timing, extent, likelihood and degree of occurrence. Therefore, actual results and outcomes may materially differ from what may be expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Southern Michigan Bancorp, Inc., does not update forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that may arise after the date of the forward-looking statements.
SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANCORP, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except share data)
December 31,
2025 December 31,
2024 ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents $109,498 $73,737 Federal funds sold 878 259 Securities available for sale, at fair value 156,220 159,320 Securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost 62,471 60,454 Loans held-for-sale 214 995 Loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $15,553 – 2025, $12,782 - 2024 1,257,855 1,103,652 Premises and equipment, net 25,188 25,600 Net cash surrender value of life insurance 28,506 23,139 Goodwill 13,422 13,422 Other intangible assets, net 75 111 Other real estate owned 3,689 - Other assets 32,461 35,866 TOTAL ASSETS $1,690,477 $1,496,555 LIABILITIES Deposits: Non-interest bearing $224,171 $223,583 Interest bearing 1,192,627 1,028,212 Total deposits 1,416,798 1,251,795 Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and overnight borrowings 1,390 1,560 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 18,118 18,355 Other borrowings 97,900 82,900 Subordinated debentures 34,791 34,722 Total liabilities 1,568,997 1,389,332 SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY Preferred stock, 100,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding – – Common stock, $2.50 par value: Authorized – 10,000,000 shares Issued and outstanding – 4,623,734 shares in 2025, 4,577,107 shares in 2024 11,555 11,438 Additional paid-in capital 13,621 13,438 Retained earnings 106,716 97,462 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (10,412) (15,115)Total shareholders’ equity 121,480 107,223 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY $1,690,477 $1,496,555
SOUTHERN MICHIGAN BANCORP, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Three Months Ended
December 31, Year Ended
December 31, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Interest income: Loans, including fees $19,052 $16,628 $72,776 $64,376 Federal funds sold and balances with banks 823 999 3,314 4,629 Securities: Taxable 1,404 1,376 5,810 5,889 Tax-exempt 410 318 1,498 1,222 Total interest income 21,689 19,321 83,398 76,116 Interest expense: Deposits 7,847 7,358 30,434 29,013 Other 1,447 1,315 5,484 6,016 Total interest expense 9,294 8,673 35,918 35,029 Net interest income 12,395 10,648 47,480 41,087 Provision for credit losses 1,332 353 3,196 1,014 Net interest income after provision for credit losses 11,063 10,295 44,284 40,073 Non-interest income: Service charges on deposit accounts 443 422 1,669 1,692 Trust fees 876 704 3,221 2,744 Net gains on loan sales 395 253 1,139 672 Earnings on life insurance assets 229 170 833 667 Gain from life insurance – – 202 – ATM and debit card fee income 476 462 1,882 1,818 Other 230 289 831 898 Total non-interest income 2,649 2,300 9,777 8,491 Non-interest expense: Salaries and employee benefits 6,161 6,233 24,146 22,388 Occupancy, net 601 540 2,438 2,054 Equipment 553 425 2,015 1,658 Professional and outside services 575 581 2,130 2,156 Software maintenance 774 635 2,841 2,452 ATM expenses 235 212 976 841 Printing, postage, and supplies 123 97 468 510 Telecommunication expenses 91 73 314 313 Other 1,251 1,096 4,342 4,053 Total non-interest expense 10,364 9,892 39,670 36,425 INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 3,348 2,703 14,391 12,139 Federal income tax provision 436 53 2,176 1,737 NET INCOME $2,912 $2,650 $12,215 $10,402 Basic Earnings Per Common Share $0.63 $0.57 $2.65 $2.28 Diluted Earnings Per Common Share 0.62 0.57 2.63 2.28 Dividends Declared Per Common Share 0.16 0.15 0.64 0.60
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/832ed605-5584-4b45-b447-75d83a032fe1
SMBT Jackson Summit Township Branch Southern Michigan Bank and Trust, Jackson Summit Township Branch
2026-02-17 12:4323d ago
2026-02-17 07:4123d ago
Goldman Sachs Is Raising Price Targets 10%+ on 4 Blue Chip Dividend Stocks
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Founded in 1869, Goldman Sachs is the world’s second-largest investment bank by revenue and ranks 55th on the Fortune 500 list of the largest U.S. corporations by total revenue. The Wall Street white-glove giant offers financing, advisory services, risk distribution, and hedging for the firm’s institutional and corporate clients. In addition, it provides advice, investing, and execution for institutions and individuals across public and private markets.
It is always a good sign when the Goldman Sachs team starts raising price targets on Buy-rated companies. Typically, when a stock has been performing well, and its target price is raised, it usually means analysts are optimistic about what they see six to 12 months ahead. When we see significant price increases of 10% or more, it’s time to share this with our readers. Here are five that appear to be outstanding ideas for growth and income investors.
Why we recommend Goldman Sachs stocks
Goldman Sachs is the acknowledged leader in the investment landscape on Wall Street and worldwide. The firm’s top-notch research department continues to deliver the best ideas across the investment spectrum and is likely to do so for years to come.
Applied Materials This legacy semiconductor capital equipment giant has been on fire, and still pays a small 0.56% dividend. Applied Materials Inc. (NASDAQ: AMAT) is a materials engineering solution company. The company provides equipment, services and software to the semiconductor, display, and related industries.
It operates in three segments:
Semiconductor Systems designs, develops, manufactures, and sells a range of primarily 300 mm equipment used to fabricate semiconductor chips, also referred to as integrated circuits. Applied Global Services provides services, spare parts, and factory automation software to customer fabrication plants worldwide. This segment also manufactures and sells 200mm and other equipment. Display primarily comprises products for manufacturing liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and other display technologies for televisions, monitors, laptops, personal computers, tablets, smartphones, and other consumer devices. Goldman Sachs raised its $310 price target to $390.
Belden This perfect AI/data center infrastructure play offers a small 0.13% dividend. Belden Inc. (NYSE: BDC) is a global supplier of complete connection solutions.
Its Smart Infrastructure Solutions segment provides network infrastructure and broadband solutions, as well as cabling and connectivity solutions for commercial audio/video and security applications.
The company’s vertical markets include:
Data centers Government Healthcare Hospitality The Broadband Solutions primarily serve broadband and wireless service providers.
Copper and fiber cable and connectivity solutions Interconnect panels Racks and enclosures Secure, high-performance signal extension and matrix-switching systems Belden’s Automation Solutions segment provides network infrastructure and digitization solutions that enable customers to make data-driven business decisions.
The primary markets include discrete automation, process automation, energy, and mass transit.
Goldman Sachs raised its $144 target price to $175.
BorgWarner Serving the auto industry and beyond, this company also pays a 0.84% dividend. BorgWarner Inc. (NYSE: BWA) is engaged in clean-technology solutions for combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles. The company operates in four segments.
The technologies at Turbos & Thermal Technologies include:
Turbochargers e-boosters e-turbos Emissions systems Thermal systems Gasoline ignition technology Smart remote actuators Powertrain sensors The Drivetrain & Morse Systems segment’s products include control modules; friction and mechanical clutch products for automatic transmissions; torque-management products; and rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) transfer case and coupling systems.
The PowerDrive Systems segment’s products include power electronics such as inverters, onboard chargers, DC/DC converters, combination boxes, and others.
The Battery & Charging Systems segment’s products include lithium-ion battery systems for electrified bus, truck, and off-highway applications, as well as DC fast chargers suitable for all types of electric vehicles.
The Goldman Sachs target price increased to $78 from $54.
Cameco Based in Canada, this top company pays a small 0.15% dividend and supplies products to nuclear reactors used to generate electricity. Cameco Corp. (NYSE: CCJ) is a provider of uranium fuel for generating baseload electricity worldwide.
Its uranium segment involves the exploration for, mining, milling, purchase, and sale of uranium concentrate. Meanwhile, the fuel services segment includes the refining, conversion, and fabrication of uranium concentrate, as well as the purchase and sale of conversion services.
The Westinghouse segment reflects its earnings from this equity-accounted investment. Westinghouse is an original equipment manufacturer of nuclear reactor technology and a global provider of products and services to commercial utilities and government agencies.
The company provides:
Outage and maintenance services Engineering support Instrumentation and control equipment Plant modifications Components and parts for nuclear reactors Cameco operates two mines, Cigar Lake and McArthur River, and a mill at Key Lake. It also has ownership interests in Global Laser Enrichment.
The $115 Goldman Sachs target price increased to $131.
As XRP continues to struggle below the $1.50 zone, the asset’s network activity has dropped sharply, signaling cooling participation across the blockchain.
In this line, the number of active wallets fell from 55,080 on February 9 to 40,778 by February 15, reflecting a decline of about 26%, according to on-chain data shared by Ali Martinez on February 17.
XRP active addresses chart. Source: Ali Martinez Notably, activity peaked at around 55,000 active addresses on February 9 before plunging on February 10. From February 11 through February 15, daily active addresses remained subdued, fluctuating between 41,000 and 43,000 but failing to regain earlier highs.
Active addresses are a key measure of network engagement and transaction demand. A sharp decline over a short period signals reduced on-chain activity and weakening short-term participation from traders and investors.
From a price standpoint, softer network activity can curb bullish momentum. Lower engagement typically translates into weaker liquidity and transactional demand, which can pressure XRP’s price.
XRP price weakness The drop comes at a time when the cryptocurrency’s price has shown resilience in recent days, rallying roughly 38% from early February lows around $1.11 to $1.20 following a sharp crypto-wide crash. However, XRP remains significantly below its 2025 peak of $3.65.
In this line, a major development weighing on sentiment is a sharp revision from banking giant Standard Chartered, with its analysts slashing their end-of-2026 XRP price target by 65%, from a previous bullish forecast of $8 to $2.80.
Global Head of Digital Assets Research Geoffrey Kendrick cited challenging price action, macro headwinds, reduced institutional inflows, and expectations of further near-term declines across the crypto sector.
Despite the bearish outlook from Standard Chartered, some positive signals persist. XRP ETFs have attracted over $1.37 billion in inflows since late 2025, and Ripple recently unveiled an institutional roadmap in mid-February, including DeFi scaling features, lending capabilities, and a substantial treasury fund.
XRP price analysis By press time, XRP was trading at $1.46, down about 1% over the past 24 hours. On the weekly timeframe, the asset is up nearly 3%.
XRP seven-day price chart. Source: Finbold As it stands, XRP remains below both its 50-day SMA at $1.83 and 200-day SMA at $2.34, signaling sustained bearish momentum across the medium and long term.
The fact that the price remains below these key moving averages suggests sellers are still in control, and rallies may face resistance near those levels.
Meanwhile, the 14-day RSI stands at 44.26, in neutral territory but below the midpoint of 50, indicating weakening buying pressure without yet reaching oversold conditions.
Featured image via Shutterstock
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 05:4224d ago
Kevin O'Leary points to quantum risk in Bitcoin price outlook
Kevin O’Leary says quantum risks are capping institutional Bitcoin exposure near 3% as BIP-360 proposes a new P2MR output to harden the network’s security.
Summary
Kevin O’Leary claims institutions are reluctant to move past roughly 3% Bitcoin allocation until quantum security concerns are addressed. Jefferies’ Christopher Wood removed a 10% Bitcoin slice from his model portfolio, citing uncertainty over how quantum threats will be mitigated. Developers submitted BIP-360, introducing P2MR outputs to reduce public-key exposure and strengthen Bitcoin’s architecture against future quantum attacks. Billionaire entrepreneur and investor Kevin O’Leary said security risks posed by quantum computers are preventing institutional investors from expanding their Bitcoin holdings, according to recent statements.
O’Leary stated that institutions remain reluctant to increase Bitcoin (BTC) allocations above 3% until quantum-related security concerns are resolved. The general approach among institutional investors reflects “cautious waiting,” according to O’Leary, with long-term funds and large portfolio managers seeking greater clarity on how Bitcoin’s security architecture will be protected against quantum computing threats.
Christopher Wood, Jefferies’ Head of Global Equity Strategy, recently removed a 10% Bitcoin allocation from his model portfolio, citing uncertainties surrounding quantum security as the reason for the decision. The move signals that quantum computing threats to cryptocurrency security may be receiving increased attention from institutional investors.
Bitcoin developers have added a proposal designated BIP-360 to the official Bitcoin Improvement Proposal GitHub repository, entering the evaluation process for potential future implementation. The proposal aims to address quantum security concerns by introducing a new output type called P2MR, which would reduce exposure of the existing public key architecture and create a more resilient structure against quantum attacks, according to the proposal documentation.
The developments indicate growing institutional focus on quantum computing as a potential security challenge for Bitcoin’s cryptographic infrastructure.
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 05:5124d ago
Bitcoin's downtrend may end within 12 months, says Altcoin Sherpa
Altcoin Sherpa says Bitcoin’s bear phase could end within 12 months as ETFs, macro risks and a possible capitulation shape the next accumulation zone.
Summary
Altcoin Sherpa projects Bitcoin’s peak‑to‑bottom phase will likely conclude in less than a year, excluding the post‑bottom accumulation range. The analyst says a major selloff from the October peak and ETF outflows may already have marked capitulation, putting Bitcoin in early accumulation. Structural shifts such as US spot ETFs and macro headwinds mean this cycle may diverge from 2018 and 2022, even if the one‑year bear timing repeats. Bitcoin market analyst Altcoin Sherpa has projected the current cryptocurrency bear phase will conclude in less than 365 days, with the digital asset potentially resuming its broader uptrend before year-end, according to analysis published on social media platform X.
The projection comes as Bitcoin trades well below its all-time high reached in October, prompting investor questions about when the cryptocurrency might establish its next bottom.
Sherpa specified the timeline refers to the move from peak to bottom and does not include the accumulation period that typically follows, according to the analysis. The accumulation phase is characterized by sideways price action with relatively low volatility and subdued trading volume, historically lasting between two and four months.
Historical data shows Bitcoin experienced major rallies in 2017 and 2021, each followed by year-long declines in 2018 and 2022, according to the analyst. Extended accumulation periods followed those drawdowns in 2019 and 2020. From peak to bottom in both the 2017-2018 and 2021-2022 cycles, Bitcoin required approximately one year to complete its downward move.
Past bear markets have featured a final capitulation event—a sharp sell-off marking the end of the downtrend, according to Sherpa’s analysis. The analyst indicated a capitulation may have already occurred earlier this year, pointing to a substantial price drop as a potential final decline. If correct, the market could already be in early accumulation stages.
Sherpa stated the current decline will differ from previous patterns due to structural changes in the market. The analyst cited the growing role of US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds, which have altered capital flow structures despite declining alongside the broader market. An extended consolidation period of approximately eight months in a prior price range was also noted, with such trading ranges often acting as support zones during pullbacks from a technical analysis perspective.
Broader macroeconomic factors including equities, metals, overall risk appetite and artificial intelligence developments remain critical variables, according to the analysis. Sherpa stated Bitcoin does not require another seven months of decline to form a bottom, suggesting accumulation may already be underway if the recent slide was the final capitulation.
The analyst acknowledged one key risk to the outlook: the possibility that a final capitulation has not yet occurred. If another significant sell-off emerges, that would be interpreted as the definitive bottoming event, with accumulation likely following for several months, according to the analysis.
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 05:5124d ago
Bitcoin Hits the Brakes Near $68,000—But Long-Term Holders Aren't Flinching
Bitcoin Hits the Brakes Near $68,000—But Long-Term Holders Aren’t Flinching Prefer us on Google
LTH supply cluster above $65,000 reinforces critical support zone.NUPL declines, yet exchange outflows show continued accumulation.Break below $65,158 risks slide toward $58,000 realized price.Bitcoin has struggled to regain upward momentum in recent sessions. The price has remained range-bound amid uncertain macro conditions. Volatility in equities and rate expectations has capped recovery attempts.
With short-term signals mixed, attention shifts to long-term holders, or LTHs. This cohort has historically shaped major Bitcoin reversals. Their behavior now offers critical insight into whether BTC is nearing a turning point.
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Bitcoin LTHs Have a Critical Support EstablishedThe LTH CBD Heatmap highlights significant supply density above $65,000. This cluster is anchored in the 2024 first-half accumulation range. That zone has repeatedly absorbed recent selling pressure. Strong demand there suggests conviction among experienced Bitcoin holders.
This support band has acted as a buffer during pullbacks. Capital accumulated during prior consolidation phases remains largely dormant. As long as this structure holds, large-scale distribution appears unlikely.
Want more token insights like this? Sign up for Editor Harsh Notariya’s Daily Crypto Newsletter here.
Bitcoin LTH CBD Heatmap. Source: GlassnodeA decisive breakdown below this range would change the narrative. It could open the path toward Bitcoin’s Realized Price, currently near $54,000. However, such a move seems less probable while LTH supply remains stable. The data suggests holders are not preparing for capitulation.
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How Are LTHs Reacting?The Long-Term Holder Net Unrealized Profit and Loss, or NUPL, has recently declined. This metric measures aggregate unrealized gains within long-term wallets. Falling NUPL indicates shrinking profitability among this BTC cohort.
Historically, extended NUPL declines have coincided with deeper price corrections. Similar patterns appeared in February 2020 and June 2022. In those periods, weakening profitability led to broader capitulation events.
Bitcoin LTH NUPL. Source: GlassnodeSponsored
This cycle appears different. Institutional flows and spot Bitcoin ETF support have strengthened structural demand. Persistent inflows from regulated products provide a stabilizing force. As a result, LTHs may be less inclined to exit positions despite margin compression.
HODLer Net Position Change data shows Bitcoin LTHs are accumulating rather than distributing. Rising green bars on the metric suggest coins are moving into long-term storage. This is a positive sign as their accumulation tends to stick for a long while, unlike STHs, who are prone to selling at the first sign of profits.
Continued inflows into LTH wallets reinforce this trend. Accumulation during uncertainty can slow downside momentum, and if this pattern persists, it may help establish a foundation for a broader Bitcoin price recovery.
Bitcoin HODLer Net Position Change. Source: GlassnodeSponsored
BTC Price Is Still Under ResistanceBitcoin is trading at $68,282 at the time of writing. The primary near-term target remains reclaiming the $70,000 level. This psychological barrier has capped upside for roughly ten days.
The $68,342 support level is critical in the short term. Strong defense of this zone could enable BTC to challenge the $70,610 resistance. A confirmed breakout may extend gains toward $73,499 and potentially higher if momentum accelerates.
Bitcoin Price Analysis. Source: TradingViewDownside risk remains present under adverse macro conditions. A break below $65,158 would weaken the current structure. Losing that support could expose Bitcoin to a deeper retracement. In such a scenario, price could gravitate toward the Realized Price near $58,000.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 05:5324d ago
Bitcoin Price Prediction as Willy Woo Warns of Quantum Risks to Digital Gold
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Bitcoin price hovered at $68,021 on Tuesday, following a week of consolidation below the $70k level. Ethereum is trading around $1,970. Despite the wider crypto market experienced some positive growth last week, the total market cap increased 0.35%, now estimated at 2.35 trillion.
In the meantime, Willy Woo has cautioned about the possible dangers that quantum computing represents to the security of Bitcoin.
Willy Woo Warns Quantum Risk Threatens Bitcoin’s Gold Advantage On-chain analyst Willy Woo has sounded the alarm about the growing risk that quantum computing could erode Bitcoin’s edge over gold.
Woo maintained that markets are beginning to take into consideration the threat of a “Q Day. This name is used to describe the point at which quantum computers can crack existing public-key encryptions.
Such an innovation can reintroduce some 4 million Bitcoin, which is estimated to have been lost out of circulation, since unreachable private keys, into circulation. These misplaced coins are accumulated in addresses that have an open public key that may be intercepted using quantum technology.
Woo stated that this is already getting factored into the price of Bitcoin, with a structural discount becoming apparent against gold.
He further observed that the Bitcoin network could use a hard fork to freeze these coins. Nonetheless, this action would spark a lot of controversy insofar as it would mean that Bitcoin would have its fungibility and immutability.
Woo approximated that the recall of these coins may equate to about eight years of Bitcoin amassing by companies.
Key Crypto Events To Watch Ahead The market is closely watching the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes, set for release this Wednesday. The minutes will provide important details on how the central bank manages interest rates and inflation.
The released minutes of the meeting owed to the release three weeks after the FOMC meeting, give an insight into the internal discussions of the Fed. They target the economic situation, employment growth, and inflation issues.
These pieces of information frequently cause market trends, particularly in the crypto sector. Dovish minutes, which indicate the potential of a rate reduction, are likely to increase the price of crypto.
There are some major weekly crypto market calendars to watch. These are the ADP employment update, the retail sales information, and the December PCE inflation report. These reports will also ascertain the market mood and the potential fluctuations of the prices.
Bitcoin Price Prediction: Is BTC Set for a Breakout or a Pullback? As of writing, the BTC price stands at about $68,454 with a minor rise of +0.7%.
The MACD indicator shows a negative trend, and this may show a short-term downturn. This is also supported by the histogram since the bars appear red, which depicts a bearish movement. The MACD line, however, crossing over the signal line might indicate a potential short-term reversal in case the momentum changes.
The RSI is 43, which is close to the neutral zone, indicating that Bitcoin is not overbought or oversold.
The long-term Bitcoin forecast is on the verge of important target levels of $75,000 and $65,000 to monitor. Any move above $75,000 could be an indicator of an upward trend, whereas a fall below $65,000 could be an indicator of a downward trend.
Source: BTC/USDT 4-hour chart: Tradingview To sum up, Bitcoin price holds its ground as the crypto market expands slowly. The security of Bitcoin is also a cause of concern in light of the warning given by Willy Woo on the issue of quantum computing. Future market moods will be determined by future economic reports and Federal Reserve minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) "Q Day" refers to the moment when quantum computers become powerful enough to break current cryptographic techniques used in Bitcoin's security.
Willy Woo warns that quantum computing could compromise Bitcoin's security, especially with lost coins stored in addresses that might become vulnerable once quantum computers can break public-key cryptography.
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 05:5624d ago
Bitcoin Struggles Below $71K as Bears Control Market
Bitcoin’s week went pretty badly. The cryptocurrency surged from $60,000 but couldn’t break through the $71,800 resistance that’s been blocking bulls for days now. It found some support at $65,650 before bouncing back to close at $68,811 on Friday.
Buying interest showed up below $66,000, but that wasn’t enough to keep momentum going upward. The failure to hold gains above $71,000 signals weakness that could send Bitcoin tumbling toward $60,000 if things don’t turn around fast. Traders are watching these levels closely because the next move could determine whether Bitcoin faces another major selloff or finally breaks free from this bearish pattern that’s dominated recent weeks.
Key levels matter right now.
The $65,650 support held for a bit, with Bitcoin dipping below briefly before recovering some ground. A close under that level opens the door to $63,000, where some support might kick in. But if that fails too, the 0.618 Fibonacci retracement at $57,800 becomes the critical line in the sand. Below that? There’s basically nothing until $44,000, which would be a disaster for Bitcoin holders who bought anywhere near current levels.
Bulls need to reclaim $71,800 to have any shot at pushing higher. Breaking that resistance could target $74,500 and maybe even $79,000, though that seems unlikely given how weak the market feels right now. Getting past $79,000 looks nearly impossible, with $84,000 standing as a massive wall that would take serious buying power to overcome.
Week ahead looks murky.
U.S. markets stayed closed Monday, so not much happened until Tuesday trading kicked in. Bitcoin’s path from $68,800 remains unclear, with most analysts expecting a test of $67,000 support early this week. Holding that level might allow a push past $71,000, but losing it reopens the path to low $60,000 territory that nobody wants to see.
Market sentiment feels bearish across the board. Last week’s inability to sustain upward momentum shows bears are still in control, and that’s not changing anytime soon unless something major shifts the narrative.
Medium-term outlook stays choppy. Bitcoin will probably bounce between $60,000 and $80,000 for weeks, possibly dropping to that $57,800 Fibonacci level that technical analysts keep mentioning. The so-called “Crypto Bill” in Congress could shake things up, but nobody knows what’s actually in it or when it might pass. More on this topic: Bitcoin Plunges Below K as Perpetual.
Technical factors are driving everything right now.
Ethan Greene from Feral Analysis said Bitcoin’s price action depends heavily on technical levels. “The $57,800 support level is crucial,” Greene told reporters. “A breach there could trigger significant selling pressure that pushes Bitcoin much lower than most people expect.”
Greene thinks traders are focused entirely on these technical thresholds because there’s not much fundamental news to trade on. The market’s waiting for something to break the stalemate.
Juan Galt, who co-wrote analysis for Bitcoin Magazine, sees cautious sentiment everywhere. Bitcoin can’t hold gains, so traders are sitting on their hands waiting for clearer direction. “The next few sessions could be pivotal,” Galt said. “We’re hovering around critical support levels that could determine the next major move.”
February 16 marked a key date as traders expected volatility after the U.S. holiday. The lack of American market activity Monday led to choppy trading Tuesday as volume picked up again.
Some investors stay optimistic despite the bearish mood. They point to Bitcoin’s history of bouncing back from major lows, arguing long-term prospects remain intact. But immediate focus stays on whether Bitcoin can break $71,800 and stabilize above that level that’s caused so much trouble.
February 17 brought intense focus on the $71,800 resistance that Bitcoin keeps failing to clear. Sarah Thompson from Crypto Insights said breaking that barrier could shift momentum and encourage bulls. “Without a strong catalyst though, Bitcoin might keep struggling with this level,” Thompson warned. Related coverage: US Stocks Surge While Bitcoin Stalls.
Glassnode data showed fewer active Bitcoin addresses last week. Mark Davis thinks this reflects lower investor engagement at current prices. “The trend might continue unless Bitcoin generates renewed interest by breaking key resistance,” Davis said.
Ark Invest disclosed a small increase in Bitcoin holdings February 15. Despite bearish sentiment, Ark’s continued buying hints at long-term confidence, though institutional moves haven’t translated to immediate price gains yet.
February 18 could matter because of the European Central Bank meeting. David Lee from Crypto Finance is watching for policy statements that might pressure Bitcoin. “Any tightening signals could hurt Bitcoin as investors reassess risk assets,” Lee said.
The Fed minutes release February 21 also matters. Emily Carter from Blockchain Research Group thinks hawkish tones could push Bitcoin below $63,000 support. Trading volume dropped 15% last week according to CoinMarketCap data, with Rachel Kim calling this a sign of waning retail interest that could signal more weakness ahead.
The Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) saw $63 million in outflows last Tuesday alone, adding pressure to an already fragile market. MicroStrategy’s Michael Saylor remained silent on social media during Bitcoin’s struggles, a stark contrast to his usual bullish commentary during price rallies. Meanwhile, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele tweeted about buying more Bitcoin at $66,500, though the country’s total holdings remain relatively small compared to institutional players.
Coinbase reported a 22% drop in trading volumes compared to the previous week, while Binance saw similar declines across Bitcoin pairs. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange Bitcoin futures showed increased short interest, with hedge funds like Three Arrows Capital’s successors building bearish positions around the $70,000 level. Options data from Deribit revealed heavy put buying at $65,000 and $60,000 strikes, suggesting professional traders are positioning for further downside. Whale addresses holding over 1,000 Bitcoin decreased by 2.3% in February, according to blockchain analytics firm Santiment.
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2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 06:0024d ago
Ethereum Price Attempts 3 Rebounds in 10 Days — Charts Explain Why Each Failed
Ethereum Price Attempts 3 Rebounds in 10 Days — Charts Explain Why Each Failed Prefer us on Google
Ethereum price has failed three rebounds near a critical resistance zoneLarge investors and key holder behavior signal hidden pressure on price A major supply cluster continues shaping Ethereum’s next directional moveEthereum price is up about 1% over the past 24 hours, holding near the $2,000 level. But this is not the first time Ethereum has tried to recover. Over the past 10 days (between February 6 and February 15), ETH attempted three separate rebounds. Each one showed early strength but failed to continue higher.
Now, charts explain why each failed. The data also shows what must change for Ethereum price prediction to finally turn bullish.
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Ascending Triangle Shows Recovery Attempt — But Resistance LingersThe Ethereum price has been forming an ascending triangle since early February. This pattern forms when buyers push the price gradually higher, while sellers consistently defend the same resistance zone.
The rising trendline shows buyers stepping in earlier during each dip. But the resistance zones near $2,000 and $2,120 have stopped every rebound so far.
Three clear rebound attempts happened. On Feb. 6, the Ethereum price jumped 23% but failed near $2,120. On Feb. 12, the price rose 11% but again failed below resistance. On Feb. 15, the price climbed 7% but eventually stalled under $2,000. Even though buyers returned each time, they could not break through.
One key indicator supporting the recovery attempt is the Chaikin Money Flow (CMF). CMF measures large investor buying and selling by combining price and volume. When CMF rises above zero, it shows more buying than selling.
Ethereum’s CMF crossed above zero on Feb. 15 (during the third rebound attempt) and remains positive near 0.05. This suggests large investors have started buying again. But the buying strength remains limited so far.
Ethereum Price Rebounds: TradingViewWant more token insights like this? Sign up for Editor Harsh Notariya’s Daily Crypto Newsletter here.
This raises an important question. If buyers are returning, why does the Ethereum price keep failing? The answer becomes clearer by looking at whales and long-term holders.
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Whale and Long-Term Holder Selling IncreasedLarge investors have been reducing exposure during the same period that Ethereum price tried to recover. Wallets holding large amounts of ETH, known as whales, reduced their holdings from 113.92 million ETH to 113.66 million ETH. This equals a decline of about 260,000 ETH, roughly $500 million.
Ethereum Whales: SantimentThis shows whales were selling ETH during the recovery attempts instead of supporting the price.
Another key metric confirms this trend. The Hodler Net Position Change metric tracks whether long-term investors are accumulating or selling. When the metric turns negative, it means long-term holders are selling.
Ethereum’s Holder Net Position Change remained negative between Feb. 3 and Feb. 16 (during the rebound phase). Selling also increased from -13,677 ETH to -18,411 ETH. This marks a 34% rise in selling pressure.
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Hodlers Selling: GlassnodeThis timing is critical. Each rebound attempt happened during this same period of increased selling.
This explains why the Ethereum price could not sustain its recovery. Even though new buyers entered, long-term holders and whales were exiting. But there is another reason why the $2,000 and $2,120 levels remain difficult to break.
Cost Basis Data Shows Why Ethereum Price Keeps Failing Near $2,000Cost basis data shows where investors originally bought their Ethereum. This level often becomes resistance when the price returns to it.
The largest cost basis cluster currently sits between $1,995 and $2,015. More than 1.01 million ETH were purchased in this range. This creates strong selling pressure.
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Cost Basis Heatmap: GlassnodeWhen the Ethereum price returns to this level, many investors choose to sell to recover their initial investment. This increases supply and prevents the price from rising further. This pattern matches all three rebound failures.
Each rebound attempt stopped near (or slightly above) this same cost basis zone. This confirms that the Ethereum price must break through this level cleanly to start a stronger recovery. Ethereum price now remains stuck between support and resistance.
Immediate resistance levels are $2,000 (most vital for now) and $2,120, as highlighted earlier. But more detailed levels now come into the picture if we use technical projections. If Ethereum breaks above the $2,120-$2,140 zone, the next upside targets could reach $2,210 and $2,300.
Ethereum Price Analysis: TradingViewBut failure to break resistance could keep the Ethereum price moving sideways. Support remains near $1,895, and a dip under that would invalidate the trendline-led recovery attempt. The charts show recovery attempts are forming. CMF confirms buyers are returning. But whale selling, long-term holder selling, and cost basis resistance continue blocking the rally.
Ethereum price prediction now depends on whether buyers can finally absorb this selling pressure and break above resistance.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
2026-02-17 11:4323d ago
2026-02-17 06:0024d ago
Monero Price Analysis 2026: From $800 Peak to Regulatory Support Test
Monero (XMR) experienced a volatile start to 2026, hitting an all-time high of $800 before a regulatory-driven correction sent prices back to the $330 range.
Decentralized lending protocol ZeroLend announced it will shut down after struggling with declining user activity, shrinking liquidity and mounting operational challenges.
Danielle du Toit2 min read
17 February 2026, 11:00 AM
Founder Ryker said the platform became financially unsustainable as supported chains grew inactive, oracle services were withdrawn and security risks increased. ZeroLend has seen its TVL collapse, while its ZERO token plunged after the shutdown announcement and has lost almost all its value since its 2024 peak.
ZeroLend Winds DownDecentralized lending protocol ZeroLend announced it will shut down operations entirely, due to declining user activity, shrinking liquidity and mounting operational challenges across the blockchains it supports. The decision is a sharp reversal for a project that once held hundreds of millions of dollars in total value locked during the height of the Ethereum layer-2 expansion narrative.
In a statement that was shared on X, ZeroLend’s founder, known only as Ryker, said the team made the “difficult decision to wind down operations” after three years of building the protocol. Despite efforts to sustain growth, he acknowledged that the platform is no longer financially viable in its current form.
ZeroLend primarily operated on Ethereum layer-2 networks, which were once championed by Vitalik Buterin as a core strategy for scaling the Ethereum ecosystem. However, Buterin recently suggested that his earlier vision of scaling primarily through layer-2 solutions “no longer makes sense,” and argued that many rollups have failed to fully inherit Ethereum’s security guarantees.
According to Ryker, several of the blockchains supported by ZeroLend have become inactive or much less liquid, which undermined the protocol’s ability to generate sustainable revenue. In some cases, oracle providers, which supply critical price and market data to decentralized applications, discontinued support for certain networks. That loss of infrastructure made it very difficult for ZeroLend to operate lending markets reliably.
He also pointed to the growing threat landscape facing decentralized finance platforms. As ZeroLend expanded, it attracted a lot of attention from hackers and scammers. Combined with the thin profit margins and inherently high-risk nature of lending protocols, these pressures resulted in extended periods during which the platform operated at a loss.
The team assured users that withdrawals will stay open and strongly encouraged participants to remove their remaining funds. However, some assets may be stuck on chains where liquidity deteriorated significantly. Ryker said the protocol’s smart contracts will be upgraded to help redistribute those trapped assets.
ZeroLend has also been working to trace and recover funds tied to a February exploit last year involving a Bitcoin product deployed on the Base blockchain. During that incident, an attacker drained lending pools, which affected suppliers to the product. Ryker said affected users will receive a partial refund, funded through an airdrop allocation previously received by the ZeroLend team.
Market reaction to the shutdown has been quick. The ZERO token fell 34% within 24 hours of the announcement and has lost almost all of its value since reaching a peak of roughly one-tenth of a cent in May of 2024.
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Danielle du Toit, a criminology honors graduate, has channeled her curiosity and analytical mindset into exploring the fascinating and ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency. Drawn to the dynamic nature of blockchain technology and its impact on global markets, Danielle thrives on uncovering insights in this complex industry. As a crypto journalist, Danielle is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with fellow enthusiasts. Her work combines a keen investigative eye with a love for storytelling, making even the most intricate aspects of crypto accessible and engaging. Through her writing, Danielle aims to inspire readers to delve deeper into the weird and wonderful realm of digital finance.