• Lithium-sulfur batteries offer compelling benefits over lithium-ion.
• PLG has positioned itself at the forefront of lithium-sulfur battery innovation through its subsidiary, Lion Battery Technologies Inc.
• The company has achieved significant milestones in the lithium-sulfur battery sector.

The global demand for efficient, high-capacity energy storage solutions has intensified, propelling advancements in battery technology to the forefront of scientific and industrial innovation. Among the emerging contenders, lithium-sulfur (“Li-S”) batteries have garnered significant attention for their potential to surpass traditional lithium-ion systems. Platinum Group Metals (NYSE American: PLG) (TSX: PTM), a company operating in the PGM space, stands as an innovator in this transformative field, driving research and development to harness the advantages of Li-S batteries.

Lithium-sulfur batteries offer several compelling benefits over their lithium-ion counterparts. One of the most notable advantages is their higher energy density, which can potentially deliver two to three times the energy per unit weight compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries (https://ibn.fm/EZ4tg). This increased energy density translates to longer-lasting power in a lighter package, making Li-S batteries particularly attractive for applications where weight and endurance are critical factors, such as in electric vehicles and portable electronic devices. Lithium-sulfur batteries open doors to transformative applications in transportation and other sectors where maximum power in minimal space is critical.

Unlike conventional lithium-ion technology, lithium-sulfur batteries bypass the need for traditional battery materials, offering an alternative to today’s energy storage landscape. Sulfur is an abundant and cost-effective material, which could lead to lower production costs and reduced reliance on scarce and expensive resources like the nickel, manganese, and cobalt used in many lithium-ion batteries. The environmental benefits are also noteworthy, as sulfur is nontoxic, making Li-S batteries more environmentally friendly (https://ibn.fm/726ZI). These attributes position lithium-sulfur technology as a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage solutions.

Platinum Group Metals has strategically positioned itself at the forefront of lithium-sulfur battery innovation through its subsidiary, Lion Battery Technologies Inc. (https://ibn.fm/McdLe). In collaboration with Anglo American Platinum Limited, Lion Battery Technologies is dedicated to advancing both proprietary lithium-sulfur and enhanced lithium-ion (“NMC”) technologies.

A key aspect of this initiative is the utilization of the unique catalytic properties of platinum and palladium to improve battery performance. This approach not only leverages PLG’s expertise in platinum group metals but also aims to enhance the efficiency and longevity of lithium-sulfur batteries, addressing some of the traditional challenges associated with this technology.

Over the past couple of years, Platinum Group Metals has achieved significant milestones in the lithium-sulfur battery sector (https://ibn.fm/xoX8O). In June 2023, the company engaged the Battery Innovation Center (“BIC”) in Indiana to conduct testing and scale-up of their PGM-based lithium-sulfur and lithium-ion battery chemistries. This work is instrumental in the effort to transition from laboratory-scale developments to commercially viable products, ensuring that the technologies meet industry standards and performance benchmarks. The collaboration with BIC underscores PLG’s commitment to rigorous validation and optimization of its battery technologies, paving the way for potential large-scale manufacturing and deployment.

In addition to collaborative testing efforts, Lion Battery Technologies has been active in securing intellectual property to protect and advance its innovations. The company has been granted five U.S. patents related to the use of platinum group metals in lithium-sulfur batteries with additional patents pending. These patents fortify PLG’s competitive edge by safeguarding the company’s proprietary technologies and methodologies, enabling PLG to maintain a leading position in the rapidly evolving battery industry. The accumulation of such intellectual property assets not only enhances the company’s valuation but also opens avenues for licensing and strategic partnerships, which could further expand its influence and reach in the market.

The strategic initiatives undertaken by Platinum Group Metals align with the broader industry trend of seeking sustainable and high-performance energy storage solutions. As the global community intensifies its efforts to transition toward renewable energy and electric transportation, the demand for batteries that are both efficient and environmentally friendly has never been greater. By focusing on lithium-sulfur technology, PLG is addressing this demand head-on, offering a solution that promises higher energy densities and a more sustainable materials profile. The company’s work not only contributes to technological advancement but also supports global sustainability goals by promoting the adoption of cleaner energy storage systems.

In conclusion, Platinum Group Metals is working to create innovation and opportunity in the lithium-sulfur battery domain. Through strategic partnerships, dedicated research and development and a strong approach to intellectual property management, the company is working to make significant contributions to the future of energy storage. As lithium-sulfur batteries edge closer to commercial reality, PLG’s pioneering efforts position the company at the vanguard of this exciting technological frontier, ready to meet the energy challenges of tomorrow with solutions that are both powerful and sustainable.

For more information, visit www.PlatinumGroupMetals.net.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to PLG are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/PLG

The 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (“PDAC”) Convention wrapped up in style this March, solidifying its position as one of the world’s premier events for the mining and resource sectors. Held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, PDAC 2025 attracted thousands of industry professionals, investors, and innovators from across the globe to discuss the latest trends, opportunities, and challenges facing the mining industry today.

With over 27,000 attendees from more than 130 countries, PDAC 2025 marked another milestone in the event’s history. The convention provided an invaluable platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. The diversity of participants was one of the most notable aspects of this year’s event, with attendees ranging from seasoned industry veterans to newcomers eager to explore the vast opportunities the mining sector offers.

At the heart of PDAC 2025 were its high-caliber presentations and panel discussions, which tackled some of the most pressing issues and emerging trends in the global mining landscape. Keynote speeches from thought leaders such as Mike Henry, Flavia Tat Nardini and Eric Sprott provided deep insights into the industry’s future, focusing on sustainable mining practices, innovative technologies, and how the sector can adapt to a rapidly changing world.

One of the standout panels covered the topic of “Sustainable Mining: A Path Forward,” which brought together experts to discuss how companies can balance environmental responsibility with profitability. This discussion resonated with many in the room, emphasizing the growing importance of sustainability in mining operations and the evolving role of companies in addressing climate change.

Another highlight was the extension trade show where attendees got a firsthand look at the latest technological innovations designed to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability within the industry. From artificial intelligence to automation, the technologies on display at PDAC 2025 underscored the industry’s commitment to embracing the future and revolutionizing its operations.

PDAC is renowned for its networking potential, and 2025 was no exception. The event offered numerous opportunities for attendees to forge valuable connections, including one-on-one meetings, networking lounges, and curated matchmaking services. Whether it was an investor looking to connect with a junior mining company or a service provider seeking new business prospects, the convention fostered meaningful relationships that could shape the future of the industry.

Additionally, the Investor Exchange provided a platform for companies to present their latest projects to an eager audience of investors ready to explore new opportunities. Many attendees left the conference with new partnerships, deals, and collaborations in the pipeline, highlighting the event’s critical role in advancing the global mining ecosystem.

Beyond the sessions and exhibitions, PDAC 2025 was a truly global event, with participants hailing from diverse regions such as Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. The convention’s international scope allowed for a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives on how the mining industry can navigate geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and the increasing demand for critical minerals.

The event also included cultural performances, regional showcases, and social gatherings that provided attendees with a well-rounded experience, combining professional engagement with local flavor and global perspectives.

As PDAC 2025 came to a close, the excitement for next year’s convention was already building. The discussions held this year served as a strong foundation for PDAC 2026, which promises to be even bigger and more impactful. Whether you’re a mining professional, investor, or a newcomer to the industry, PDAC 2026 will continue to be the must-attend event for anyone looking to stay ahead in the mining sector.

With the mining industry evolving rapidly in response to technological advancements, sustainability efforts, and changing market demands, PDAC 2026 will be the perfect venue for exploring the latest developments, forging new partnerships, and discovering new investment opportunities. As the countdown to next year’s event begins, there’s no better time to mark your calendars and plan your attendance.

For more information and to gear up for PDAC 2026, visit: https://pdac.ca/ 

• The global golf equipment market is estimated at $18.34 billion in 2024 and forecasted to reach $29.3 billion by 2034.
• The company’s recent name change “marks a new chapter in our company’s evolution as we push the boundaries of performance in golf equipment,” says CEO.
• Newton’s advanced physics-driven designs are setting new standards in golf technology, from high-performance shafts to next-generation putters.

The global golf equipment market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing participation and technological advancements. This upward trend presents substantial opportunities for companies operating within the golf-equipment sector, such as Newton Golf Company (NASDAQ: NWTG), a technology-forward golf equipment manufacturer committed to enhancing player performance through innovative design.

“The global golf equipment market is estimated to be valued at $18.34 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to reach a market size of $29.3 billion by 2034 end, recording a CAGR of 4.8% between 2024 and 2034,” reports Fact.MR (https://ibn.fm/XGn9c). “This business is centered on innovation, technology and performance. Manufacturers are continuously striving to create cutting-edge products that can improve accuracy, distance and overall player performance. Rising participation rates, fueled by the appeal of golf as a leisure activity and networking tool, contribute to increased demand for quality equipment. Globalization and urbanization have led to higher disposable incomes in many regions, enabling more individuals to invest in golf as a recreational activity.”

The report states that key market growth drivers include constant innovation in club design and materials and growing interest in golf, particularly among younger demographics and emerging markets. “The perception of golf as a sport promoting fitness and well-being attracts new enthusiasts, boosting equipment sales,” said the report, while also noting that “endorsements and preferences of professional golfers influence consumer choices, impacting golf equipment market trends.” Fact.MR also pointed out that a general shift toward online shopping has provided greater accessibility to a global consumer base.

This projected growth bodes well for established brands and emerging innovators alike, as they work to capture market share by introducing products that enhance player performance and experience. Amid this thriving industry, Newton Golf Company has emerged as a notable player, dedicated to advancing golf-equipment technology. Formerly known as Sacks Parente, the company rebranded to Newton Golf Company last year and announced an official name change earlier this month (https://ibn.fm/6FMJp).

According to the company, the new name pays tribute to Sir Isaac Newton, whose groundbreaking discoveries in physics forever changed the world’s understanding of motion and force, principles that are fundamental to the game of golf. “Much like Newton’s early insights into gravity and motion shaped modern science, Newton Golf is pioneering a new era in golf performance technology, leveraging cutting-edge engineering to enhance distance, control, and consistency for golfers of all skill levels,” the company stated.

Company chair and CEO Greg Campbell noted that the name change “marks a new chapter in our company’s evolution as we push the boundaries of performance in golf equipment. Isaac Newton’s revolutionary thinking changed the world, and Newton Golf embodies that same spirit of discovery and innovation. Our advanced physics-driven designs are setting new standards in golf technology, from high-performance shafts to next-generation putters.”

Newton Golf focuses on delivering innovative products designed to enhance golfers’ performance, including Newton Motion Shafts and Newton Gravity Putters. The company’s proprietary shafts are engineered to store and release energy more efficiently during swings, resulting in increased distance and accuracy. Its putters are designed with a center of gravity and ultra-low balance point, promoting smooth strokes and a steady tempo.

NWTG is a technology-driven golf company dedicated to revolutionizing the sport with cutting-edge, high-performance products. The company’s expanding portfolio includes innovative golf shafts, putters, grips and other golf-related accessories designed for golfers of all skill levels. With a commitment to superior craftsmanship and performance, Newton Golf continues to push the boundaries of golf technology. 

For more information, visit www.NewtonGolfCo.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to NWTG are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/NWTG

• Brera Holdings, an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports clubs, has reiterated its commitment to growing women’s soccer globally
• In a joint report co-authored with leading global law firm Clifford Chance LLP, Brera noted the benefits of its MCO model and the opportunity it presents for the growth of the sport
• Women’s soccer is experiencing unprecedented growth, with record-breaking attendance, extensive media coverage, and increasing investment from celebrities and corporations
• Brera is strategically positioned to capitalize on this momentum, leveraging its MCO model to drive sustainable growth and enhance shareholder value

Brera Holdings (NASDAQ: BREA), an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports clubs through a multi-club ownership (“MCO”) approach, has reiterated its commitment to advancing women’s soccer.

In a joint report co-authored with leading global law firm Clifford Chance LLP, Brera outlines the benefits of MCO models in women’s soccer, the opportunity it presents for the growth of the sport, and for growing both short and long-term shareholder value (https://ibn.fm/BOM9v).

Titled “BREAKAWAY: How Multi-Team Ownership May Reshape Women’s Soccer,” this report offered a behind-the-scenes look MCO models in the sport, specifically detailing its benefits such as financial diversification, operational efficiency, talent acquisition and development, global brand expansion and sponsorship optimization.

For Brera, this model is replicated across all the facets in which it operates, from its men’s soccer teams to its female volleyball teams, a testament to its overall viability and the opportunity it presents from a growth standpoint.

“The rise of multi-club ownership in women’s soccer reflects the increasing sophistication of investment strategies in the sport,” noted Maria Xing, Brera’s Head of Investments and Corporate Development. “As stakeholders seek scalable, sustainable models, MCOs offer a framework for growth, competitive development, and long-term financial stability,” she added (https://ibn.fm/ikKn3).

Brera’s interest and overall focus on women’s teams isn’t new. The company currently operates women’s teams across multiple markets. These include Brera Tchumene in Mozambique, Brera Milano, an amateur club with a social impact focus, and WFC Brera Tiverija, the first for-profit corporation for a North Macedonian football club (https://ibn.fm/BOM9v). Its focus goes beyond soccer, evidenced by its majority stake ownership in UYBA Volley, an Italian women’s professional volleyball team. In addition, the company has expanded its engagement in women’s football in Italy through its 2024/25 season affiliation with Sant’Antonio for the Juve Stabia women’s team.

These investments underscore Brera’s confidence in the future of women’s football and the significant untapped opportunities within the sector. With its growing popularity, women’s soccer is now getting record-breaking attendance, unprecedented media coverage, and celebrity investment and endorsements.

Brera’s teams benefit from a consolidated and geographically diversified balance sheet, access to committed equity financing sources, and favorable debt financing solutions. The MCO model is designed to generate sustainable revenue growth, positioning Brera for higher returns on investment as it expands its portfolio.

For company information, visit the company’s website at www.BreraHoldings.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to BREA are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/BREA

• As the social media marketing revenue stream builds toward the trillion-dollar threshold, its access to consumers in the U.S. and around the world creates a powerful tool for advertisers
• Thumzup Media offers an increasingly popular proprietary platform for linking advertisers with social media influencers and their target audiences, democratizing the process in much the same way Uber and Airbnb revolutionized their individual markets
• The company has more than 700 advertiser clients and expects to top 1,000 during the coming summer quarter
• Thumzup’s recent Nasdaq uplisting, as well as its new stock share repurchase program, are both moves seen as advancing shareholder value

Social media branding and marketing innovator Thumzup (NASDAQ: TZUP) continues building, helping shareholders after its uplisting to the Nasdaq exchange, announcing recently that board members have approved a stock buyback program of up to $1 million in shares and the company has repurchased $126,507 of its common stock from the open market.

“We believe that this repurchase program reflects our confidence in Thumzup’s growth trajectory and the opportunity to deploy capital strategically,” company CEO Robert Steele stated in the news release dated March 12 (https://ibn.fm/x680k).

Thumzup’s proprietary AdTech platform helps companies simply build and administer their social media advertising campaigns while simultaneously enabling influencers to easily join an open marketing opportunity and receive payment.

“This disruptive platform has the potential to redefine the social media advertising market, much like what Uber accomplished in the transportation space and what Airbnb did to the hospitality market,” Steele wrote in a January letter to shareholders celebrating the company’s achievements during the past year and offering its outlook for 2025 (https://ibn.fm/s5pCR).

Information analysts at Datareportal noted in its Digital 2024: Global Overview Report (https://ibn.fm/6Vw4d) last year indicated that more than 5 billion social media user identities now operate actively online — an increase of more than 200 times during the past 25 years, representing a growing base for companies to target as they market their products to consumers.

Market analysts at Statista predict revenue generated by social commerce will hit the trillion-dollar mark by 2028 (https://ibn.fm/IfIwF).

Thumzup has more than 700 advertising clients and expects that number to top 1,000 this summer. The AdTech model essentially provides a platform for advertisers to buy a marketing campaign at www.thumzupmedia.com, establishing how much the company will pay for social media posts about a brand or business and how many posts it will buy.

A participating influencer with an interest in the target market can then post to friends and acquaintances about that brand or business for the established term. The posts contain a statement that they are part of a paid promotion, the influencer is notified when the promotion has completed its term, and the advertiser can easily renew it if desired, providing the potential for recurring revenue.

Cash payments are made to the influencer via Venmo or PayPal, and Thumzup collects a percentage fee for the campaign. The company is also increasing its Bitcoin holdings and leveraging its digital assets to boost shareholder value.

“Thumzup allows advertisers to pay their customers and fans cash for their posts on social media — something no other company in the market, to our knowledge, currently offers,” Steele stated. “Thumzup is focused on adding small businesses to the platform, as this is a proven strategy to get digital platforms off the ground due to shorter sales cycle and the need for new solutions small business owners face. In the United States, there are more than 33 million small businesses, and an average of 45% buy digital ads in any given year.”

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ThumzupMedia.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to TZUP are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/TZUP

• Adageis is surpassing its Q1 2025 growth targets, reflecting expanding market demand, with investment focused on team expansion, financial infrastructure, and AI development.
• Adageis’ patented AI-driven platform, already covering over 250,000 patient lives, optimizes quality healthcare for patients and revenue for healthcare providers.
• The company projects 580,000 patient lives covered by the end of Q2 2025.

Adageis, a healthcare technology company reshaping patient care through flexible AI-centric software solutions for healthcare organizations, is set to exceed its Q1 2025 growth expectations as its AI-powered platform continues to gain traction in the healthcare sector. The company now covers more than 250,000 patient lives, a sharp increase from its previously reported 150,000. This growth highlights a rising demand for technology that helps providers successfully transition from fee-for-service models to value-based care.

The company’s expansion is being driven by its ProActive Care Platform, an AI-powered system designed to streamline operations and improve revenue performance for healthcare providers. Currently utilized by 70 providers, the platform integrates with more than 90 electronic health record (“HER”) systems and has been awarded a U.S. patent for its predictive analytics capabilities.

Adageis plans to allocate its recent growth funding, as well as raised capital, toward three key areas: expanding its team to support the existing platform, upgrading financial infrastructure to launch into healthcare factoring, and enhancing its AI technology. The company expects to cover 580,000 patient lives by the end of Q2 2025, with monthly recurring revenue projected to reach $100,000. Additionally, Adageis is onboarding two to three new clients per month, further solidifying its unique position in the market.

Adageis is positioning itself as a key player in healthcare fintech, offering solutions that help providers optimize cash flow and maximize reimbursements. The company’s Patented Risk Engine (“PRE”) utilizes predictive analytics to assess revenue performance, enabling providers to forecast quality incentive payments. This capability allows healthcare organizations to factor accounts receivables and leverage debt for operational expansion.

The fintech AI solution is designed to address the complexities of insurance contracts, aggregating payments from insurance companies, accountable care organizations (“ACOs”), independent physician associations (“IPAs”), and clinically integrated networks (“CINs”). By providing these insights, Adageis enables healthcare professionals to secure funding based on expected reimbursements, reducing financial uncertainty.

A key factor in Adageis’ success is its ability to integrate seamlessly with widely used healthcare platforms, including AthenaHealth, Cerner, eClinicalWorks, Allscripts, and Epic. This interoperability ensures that providers can implement the ProActive Care Platform without overhauling their existing systems, making it an attractive option for healthcare organizations looking to transition to value-based care.

The healthcare sector’s shift toward value-based care has created a demand for technology that can optimize revenue while improving patient outcomes. Adageis’ AI-powered platform is currently the only offering of its kind, providing an automated, scalable solution for healthcare providers navigating this transition.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Adageis.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Adageis are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/Adageis

• Clene’s CNM-Au8^® treatment was demonstrated to improve survival in ALS patients by up to 14.8 months.
• The findings come from a post hoc analysis of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, comparing CNM-Au8 to a concurrently enrolled control.
• Strong survival benefit was observed in patients meeting the planned criteria for Clene’s upcoming Phase 3 RESTORE-ALS trial.
• The company is preparing to submit a New Drug Application (“NDA”) to the FDA later this year for potential accelerated approval, and further regulatory discussions and a confirmatory Phase 3 trial are planned for mid-2025.

Clene (NASDAQ: CLNN) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Clene Nanomedicine Inc., a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on improving mitochondrial health and protecting neuronal function to treat neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (“ALS”) and multiple sclerosis (“MS”), has released new data showing that its lead drug candidate, CNM-Au8, significantly extends survival in patients with ALS. The findings were derived from a cross-regimen post hoc analysis of long-term survival in HEALEY ALS Platform Trial participants (https://ibn.fm/EgWeb).

The study compared participants treated with CNM-Au8 30 mg (Regimen C) against those in Regimen A, which served as a large concurrent control group. Survival data was tracked over 48 months using public records and site reporting. The majority (78%) of patients in both groups received standard ALS treatments such as riluzole and edaravone, or both.

Key findings of the analysis include:

• Patients in the CNM-Au8 30 mg group of Regimen C had a median survival of 951 days, compared to 753 days in the control group — a 6.5-month improvement. When adjusted for key variables such as baseline disease severity and biomarker levels, the restricted mean survival time (“RMST”) analysis showed a statistically significant 4.1-month increase in survival (p=0.045).
• In patients with moderate to severe ALS, the median survival improvement was greater, rising from 589 days (Regimen A) to 951 days (a gain of 11.9 months). In this subgroup, the mortality risk was reduced by 44%, with an RMST improvement of 197 days.
• The largest benefit was seen in patients meeting the criteria for Clene’s upcoming Phase 3 RESTORE-ALS trial. This group experienced a median survival of 1079 days, 14.8 months longer than the control group (628 days), a 49% reduction in mortality risk, and an RMST improvement of 215 days.

These results align with prior studies, including the 24-week HEALEY ALS Platform Trial double-blind period, the RESCUE-ALS trial, and Expanded Access Program data. Commenting on the findings, Merit Cudkowicz, M.D., M.Sc., Principal Investigator and sponsor of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, director of the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS, and executive director of the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute, said, “The innovative design of the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial has enabled us to extract clear and meaningful survival data that helps make decisions about CNM-Au8 drug development.”

Clene is seeking to bring CNM-Au8 to market as soon as possible. The company is preparing to launch a confirmatory Phase 3 RESTORE-ALS trial in mid-2025, while also considering an accelerated approval pathway for CNM-Au8, following discussions with the FDA in late 2024. As part of this process, Clene will conduct additional biomarker analyses, focusing on neurofilament light chain (“NfL”) data—an important measure of ALS progression.

Rob Etherington, Clene’s President and CEO, expressed optimism about the results, stating that the survival benefit reinforces CNM-Au8’s potential to extend life for people living with ALS while also validating the company’s strategic direction as it prepares for the launch of the confirmatory Phase 3 RESTORE-ALS study in mid-2025. “We look forward to discussing these findings with the FDA as we advance toward potential commercialization,” he said.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.Clene.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to CLNN are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/CLNN

• D-Wave has shown quantum computational supremacy on a useful, real-world problem, a first in the industry, highlighting the potential of quantum computing for materials discovery and complex simulations beyond classical computational limits.
• A peer-reviewed paper published in Science validates that D-Wave’s annealing quantum computer solved a magnetic materials simulation problem that is beyond the capabilities of classical supercomputers.
• The simulation, which took minutes to solve on D-Wave’s system, would require nearly one million years and more electricity than the world’s annual consumption on a GPU-based supercomputer.
• The Advantage2 annealing quantum computer prototype was used to achieve this milestone and is available for commercial use.

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) (“D-Wave”), a leader in quantum computing systems, software, and services, has confirmed a major milestone in quantum computing, demonstrating quantum computational supremacy on a practical, real-world problem. A newly published, peer-reviewed paper in Science validates that D-Wave’s annealing quantum computer outperformed a state-of-the-art classical supercomputer in simulating quantum dynamics in magnetic materials. The full study, titled “Beyond-Classical Computation in Quantum Simulation,” is available at https://ibn.fm/VEsx9.

This marks the first time quantum computing has been proven to surpass classical methods on a useful, real-world problem (https://ibn.fm/H94kF). Unlike previous claims that focused on abstract mathematical problems or random number generation, D-Wave’s work addresses computational challenges in materials science, a field with implications for medical imaging, superconductors, and electronics.

An international collaboration of scientists led by D-Wave used the company’s Advantage2 annealing quantum computer prototype to simulate quantum dynamics in programmable spin glasses—complex magnetic materials that are difficult to model using conventional methods. D-Wave compared the performance against the Frontier supercomputer at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the most powerful classical supercomputers available.

The results were impressive — D-Wave’s system completed the most complex simulations in minutes. Performing the same computations on the classical supercomputer would have taken nearly one million years and consumed more electricity than the world’s total annual energy consumption.

According to Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, this achievement underscores the capabilities of quantum annealing. “This is a remarkable day for quantum computing. Our demonstration of quantum computational supremacy on a useful problem is an industry first. All other claims of quantum systems outperforming classical computers have been disputed or involved random number generation of no practical value,” said Dr. Baratz. “Our achievement shows, without question, that D-Wave’s annealing quantum computers are now capable of solving useful problems beyond the reach of the world’s most powerful supercomputers. We are thrilled that D-Wave customers can use this technology today to realize tangible value from annealing quantum computers.”

The ability to accurately simulate quantum materials has broad implications. Magnetic materials play a crucial role in numerous industries, from healthcare to renewable energy. Understanding their behavior through quantum simulations could lead to breakthroughs in designing more efficient electronic components, optimizing medical imaging technologies, and improving energy storage solutions.

According to Dr. Andrew King, senior distinguished scientist at D-Wave, this research proves that D-Wave’s quantum computers can reliably solve complex materials simulation problems that could lead to discovery of new materials. “Through D-Wave’s technology, we can create and manipulate programmable quantum matter in ways that were impossible even a few years ago.”

“This is a significant milestone made possible through over 25 years of research and hardware development at D-Wave, two years of collaboration across 11 institutions worldwide, and more than 100,000 GPU and CPU hours of simulation on one of the world’s fastest supercomputers as well as computing clusters in collaborating institutions,” said Dr. Mohammad Amin, chief scientist at D-Wave. “Besides realizing Richard Feynman’s vision of simulating nature on a quantum computer, this research could open new frontiers for scientific discovery and quantum application development.”

The Advantage2 System

The study builds on earlier research published in Nature Physics (2022) and Nature (2023), which demonstrated that quantum annealing provides a computational speedup for optimization problems. These findings led to the development of Advantage2’s fast anneal feature, which played a crucial role in this latest breakthrough. D-Wave also continues to develop and advance its quantum hardware, with a current Advantage2 prototype quantum computer that is four times larger than the prototype used in this study.

D-Wave offers customers immediate access to the Advantage2 prototype quantum computer through D-Wave’s Leap™ quantum cloud service, allowing businesses and researchers to explore its capabilities today. The prototype provides substantial performance improvements from previous-generation Advantage^TM systems, including increased qubit coherence, connectivity, and energy scale, which enables higher-quality solutions to larger, more complex problems.

Industry Response

The results of the study have drawn interest from the broader scientific community. Dr. Seth Lloyd, Professor of Quantum Mechanical Engineering at MIT, commented: “Although large-scale, fully error-corrected quantum computers are years in the future, quantum annealers can probe the features of quantum systems today. In an elegant paper, the D-Wave group has used a large-scale quantum annealer to uncover patterns of entanglement in a complex quantum system that lie far beyond the reach of the most powerful classical computer.”

Other leading physicists, including Dr. Hidetoshi Nishimori (Tokyo Institute of Technology) and Dr. Juan Carrasquilla (ETH Zürich), have echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the significance of this breakthrough in advancing quantum computing research.

“This paper is not only a tour-de-force for experimental physics, it is also remarkable for the clarity of the results. The authors have addressed a problem that is regarded both as important and as very challenging to a classical computer,” said Dr. Victor Martin-Mayor, Professor of Theoretical Physics, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. “The team has shown that their quantum annealer performs better at this task than the state-of-the-art methods for classical simulation.”

About D-Wave Quantum Inc.

D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. We are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Our mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Our 5,000+ qubit Advantage quantum computers, the world’s largest, are available on-premises or via the cloud, supported by 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations trust D-Wave with their toughest computational challenges. With over 200 million problems submitted to our Advantage and Advantage2 systems to date, our customers apply our technology to address use cases spanning optimization, artificial intelligence, research and more. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how we’re shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to QBTS are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/QBTS

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management’s control, including the risks set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part I of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. We undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law.

• Brera Holdings, an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports s, has announced the appointment of Dr. Arthur B. Laffer to its Advisory Board.
• With an economic lens, Dr. Laffer can provide strategic guidance on securing high-value sponsorship agreements, optimizing broadcasting rights negotiations, and leveraging government incentives to support Brera’s global expansion. Additionally, Dr. Laffer may help refine Brera’s financial modeling for player salary structures, transfer market efficiency, and overall profitability.
• Dr. Laffer’s appointment points to Brera’s ambitions for the 2025 calendar year and follows the company’s recent investment in a Mozambican football club, along with 10 new signings in the 2024-2025 winter transfer window.

Brera Holdings (NASDAQ: BREA), an Ireland-based, international holding company focused on expanding its global portfolio of men’s and women’s sports clubs through a multi-club ownership (“MCO”) approach, has announced the addition of Dr. Arthur B. Laffer to its Advisory Board. His strategic input to the company can help develop Brera’s proprietary financial models to optimize player salaries, transfer fees, and overall profitability. In addition, his corporate and political networks could be integral in positioning Brera’s clubs as transatlantic brands, providing exposure to American investors (https://ibn.fm/J5alM).

“Dr. Laffer’s economic expertise and strategic insights into market expansion and asset monetization make him a powerful addition to our all-star Advisory Board,” noted Daniel McClory, Brera’s Executive Chairman. “His principles, including the Laffer Curve, offer a unique perspective on optimizing revenue while maintaining operational efficiency,” he added (https://ibn.fm/J5alM).

Dr. Laffer is recognized for creating and popularizing the Laffer Curve, which depicts the relationship between tax rates and revenue. Created back in 1974, this curve offers a visual representation of total tax revenue collected by governments as varying depending on tax rates. As such, it is often used to illustrate the argument that tax cuts can, if properly calculated, increase total tax revenue. Globally, this curve has influenced fiscal policy, and Brera believes that, with Dr. Laffer’s extensive experience advising U.S. policymakers, corporate leaders, and investors, he will bring a fresh economic dimension to Brera’s football expansion strategy. His advisory role is intended to focus on optimizing revenue streams, monetizing player assets, and ensuring sustainable club profitability (https://ibn.fm/J5alM).

Dr. Laffer will join Massimo Ferragamo, Alan Rothenberg, Giuseppe Rossi, Paul Tosetti, and Marshall Geller on Brera’s all-star Advisory Board, with his connections in finance, energy, and technology expected to be instrumental in accessing relationships for potential high-value sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights and government incentives. For Brera, his addition will help shape the company’s vision of maximizing player monetization, revenue streams, and international market penetration, particularly in and from Asia and North America.

“We were diligent in ensuring that Brera’s Advisory Board provides visionary leadership as we continue to drive our MCO strategy forward,” noted Mr. McClory (https://ibn.fm/J5alM).

Dr. Laffer’s appointment reflects Brera’s long-term vision of positioning football clubs as high-value global assets. This follows the company’s recent expansion efforts, including a signed letter of intent (“LOI”) to invest in a second Mozambican football club and securing 10 new player signings in the 2024-2025 winter transfer window.

For company information, visit the company’s website at www.BreraHoldings.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to BREA are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/BREA

• Thumzup Media deploys a proprietary social media marketing platform branded AdTech that drives influencers to slingshot the effectiveness of small-business advertising
• The company is maintaining growth of more than 200% CAGR, currently representing more than 700 advertiser clients, with expectations of surpassing 1,000 during the coming financial reporting quarter
• Thumzup has now uplisted to the Nasdaq stock index drawing more attention to its growing success in the social media marketing sector, a more-than-$500 billion digital revenue stream expected to pass the trillion-dollar mark by 2028

Social media marketing has grown exponentially since the turn of the century, when some 25 million social media identities existed worldwide. Last year’s Digital 2024: Global Overview Report by DataReportal (https://ibn.fm/zfypb) found that there were now well over 5 billion active social media user identities — an increase of more than 200 times during the past 25 years, with marketing tools adapting to the growth during that time.

The report found that nearly 53% of internet users said the primary reason they use social media is to find products to purchase or inspiration for purchases. And the trend only continues to grow — market analysts at Statista predict revenue generated by social commerce will hit the trillion-dollar mark by 2028 (https://ibn.fm/iatWr).

Social media branding and marketing innovator Thumzup (NASDAQ: TZUP) recently uplisted to the NASDAQ, further building its momentum as a solution to industry growth challenges through its proprietary AdTech platform, which significantly enhances the influencer recruiting and payment process. The company now represents more than 700 advertisers and expects to pass the 1,000-advertiser threshold during this year’s Q2 period.

As social media marketing growth attempts to accelerate, it is growing more sophisticated. More brands are competing online for consumers’ attention, and consumers are evolving in terms of their behaviors and preferences (https://ibn.fm/l6Sv3). Thumzup Media’s easy-to-use dashboard allows advertisers to programmatically customize their campaign, using a consumer-facing app to facilitate cash payment to social media users based on their posting success on advertisers’ behalf.

Thumzup also recently announced plans to integrate bitcoin as an additional payment option for gig economy workers.

“Our rapid growth to more than 700 advertisers, up from around 200 this time last year, is confirmation of the effectiveness of our disruptive advertising model,” Thumzup CEO Robert Steele stated in a company news release earlier this month (https://ibn.fm/V2YZW). “We are maintaining growth of more than 200% CAGR. … We are continuously growing and redefining how brands connect with consumers. By incentivizing engagement with direct cash rewards and harnessing a vast, untapped audience, we are delivering outsized value.”

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ThumzupMedia.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to TZUP are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/TZUP