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HIGHLIGHTS

• Assays confirm uranium mineralization across the Mineralized RIB Corridor (“MRC”) at RIB South, East and West Discoveries, where results from twelve drillholes intersected uranium mineralization (Figures 2 & 3). These results are in addition to the previously announced RIB North Discovery, where the maiden drillhole, RIBN-DD-001, returned assays with 34.7 m of total composite uranium mineralization¹, including 13.6 m grading 0.53% U₃O₈, 1.1 m grading 4.81% U₃O₈, and grades up to 8.16% U₃O₈ over 0.5 m (See November 20^th, 2025, RIB North Assay Release);

RIB East Discovery

• Located on the 4.5 km long Eastern Limb of the MRC, ~1.4 km south of the significant RIB North Discovery (Figures 2 & 3);

• Currently defined by eight diamond drillholes over a 750 m strike length that remains open in all directions, with drilling highlighted by:

  • RIBE-DD-003 assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 8.6 m encompassing four zones from 101.4 m to 374.1 m (Figure 4), including a high-grade intersection² from 276.2 m to 277.3 m with 2.69% U₃O₈ over 1.1 m, including 5.55% U₃O₈ over 0.5 m;

  • RIBE-DD-007 assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 8.7 m encompassing six zones from 174.0 m to 215.3 m (Figure 5), including a higher-grade intersection from 207.2 m to 211.3 m with 0.236% U₃O₈ over 4.1 m, including 1.15% U₃O₈ over 0.5 m;

RIB West Discovery

• Located on the 4.0 km long Western Limb of the MRC, ~1.8 km southwest of the significant RIB North Discovery (Figures 2 & 3);

• Currently defined by three diamond drillholes over a 2.2 km strike length that remains open in all directions, with drilling highlighted by:

  • RIBW-DD-001 assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 1.7 m from 393.5 m to 395.2 m (Figure 6) with an average grade of 0.78% U₃O₈, including a high-grade intersection² with 1.36% U₃O₈ over 0.6 m;

  • RIBW-DD-003 assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 2.0 m from 234.2 m to 236.2 m (Figure 7) with an average grade of 0.291% U₃O₈, including a high-grade intersection² of 1.07% U₃O₈ over 0.5 m;

RIB South Discovery

• Located on the 4.5 km long Eastern Limb of the MRC, ~2.25 km south of the RIB East Discovery (Figures 2 & 3);

• Currently defined by one diamond drillhole, with prospective strike length open and untested in all directions along the MRC, with drilling highlighted by:

  • RIBS-DD-001 assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 2.0 m encompassing two zones from 158.5 m to 252.1 m (Figure 8), including 1.5 m from 250.6 m to 252.1 m with an average grade of 0.11% U₃O₈;

Mineralized RIB Corridor

• Mineralized RIB Corridor – 12 km corridor containing stacked graphitic shear zones, identified using 3D EM Inversion modeling. During the 2025 Angilak Exploration Program these EM anomalies were drill tested, resulting in a 100% success rate of intersecting uranium mineralization associated with graphitic shear zones, and the discovery of four new mineralized areas: RIB East, West, North and South, in addition to the historic RIB Discovery³ (Figures 2 & 3);

• Uranium mineralization discovered along the MRC consists of Athabasca styles of mineralization including basement, sandstone, and unconformity hosted mineralization;

• The MRC remains open within all discovery areas and is currently constrained only by a lack of additional MMT survey data south of the Historic RIB Discovery. Additional MMT surveys paired with 3D EM Inversion modeling is planned for 2026, designed to unlock and define the true scale and significance of the MRC and the entirety of the Angikuni Basin;

• Additional drill core samples from the KU Discovery, Mushroom Lake, and the Lac 50 Deposit area have been submitted to the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) Geoanalytical Laboratory for analysis. The Company anticipates disclosing all remaining assay results in the coming weeks.

Troy Boisjoli, CEO commented: “Since acquiring the Angilak Uranium Project in 2024 ATHA has completed two successful drill campaigns comprising 46 holes across the Lac 50 Deposit and RIB-Nine Iron trends – 45 of those holes have intersected uranium mineralization. The 2024 Angilak Exploration Program focused on the Lac 50 Deposit Trend, testing the envelop of mineralization with large step outs, culminating in release of an Exploration Target for the Lac 50 Deposit area – which remains completely open and unconstrained.

During the 2025 Program, our goal was to start to unlock the regional potential of Angilak. Testing new targets which had been derisked through our systematic exploration approach, utilizing all the tools at our disposal to drill test in the most cost-effective means possible. The assay results from the Mineralized RIB Corridor, hitting uranium mineralization on 100% of the holes drilled along the 12-km MRC speaks for itself. The success we’ve had at RIB demonstrates to us that the scale of the MRC is something truly special, and may represent one of the most significant emerging uranium regions in Canada.”

Cliff Revering, VP Exploration added: “The Mineralized RIB Corridor continues to deliver compelling results, supported by the latest confirmation assays from the 2025 exploration program. Uranium mineralization encountered to date, spanning a 12 km structural corridor and anchored by the RIB North Discovery, demonstrates both scale and high-grade potential. Combined with the positive geological and geochemical signatures emerging from our 2025 work, the data increasingly points to a large mineralizing system.

Since acquiring the Angilak Project in 2024, ATHA’s disciplined exploration strategy has consistently advanced discovery within the Angikuni Basin, leveraging targeted exploration tools that enhance efficiency and reduce risk of discovery. The delineation of the Mineralized RIB Corridor within the larger RIB-Nine Iron regional trend represents a significant new development and highlights just one of several high-upside targets across the basin.

As we look ahead to 2026, ATHA is well-positioned to build on this momentum. Our objective remains clear: to continue unlocking the value of this emerging uranium district and to demonstrate the long-term growth potential of the Angikuni Basin.”

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / December 10, 2025 / ATHA Energy Corp. (TSX.V:SASK)(FRA:X5U)(OTCQB:SASKF) (“ATHA” or the “Company“), is pleased to announce assay results from the remaining twelve holes drilled along the Mineralized RIB Corridor (“MRC”), completed as part of the 2025 Angilak Exploration Program at its 100%-owned Angilak Uranium Project in Nunavut, Canada (Figure 1). Assay results confirm uranium mineralization was intersected in all drillholes along the 12 km MRC, including the RIB East, West, and South Discoveries, in addition to the previously announced RIB North Discovery.

At the RIB East Discovery, a total of eight diamond drillholes were completed across a total strike length of 750 m and the area remains open in all directions. Drilling at RIB East is highlighted by RIBE-DD-003, assays returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 8.6 m encompassing four zones from 101.4 m to 374.1 m (Figure 4). This includes a high-grade² intersection from 276.2 m to 277.3 m with results returning an average grade of 2.69% U₃O₈ over 1.1 m, including 5.55% U₃O₈ over 0.5 m. At the RIB West Discovery, a total of three diamond drillholes were completed across a 2.2 km strike length, with the area remains open in all directions. Drilling at RIB West is highlighted by RIBW-DD-001 which returned total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 1.7 m from 393.5 m to 395.2 m (Figure 6) with an average grade of 0.78% U₃O₈, including a high-grade² intersection of 1.36% U₃O₈ over 0.6 m. RIB South is currently defined by one diamond drillhole, located ~ 2.25 km to the south of the RIB East Discovery. RIBS-DD-001 intersected total composite uranium mineralization¹ of 2.0 m encompassing two zones from 158.5 m to 252.1 m (Figure 8), including 1.5 m from 250.6 m to 252.1 m with an average grade of 0.11% U₃O₈.

The Mineralized RIB Corridor is a 12 km long corridor containing stacked graphitic shear zones, identified using 3D EM Inversion modeling. During the 2025 Angilak Exploration Program these EM anomalies were drill tested, resulting in a 100% success rate of intersecting uranium mineralization associated with the graphitic shear zones, and the discovery of four new mineralized areas: RIB East, West, North and South, in addition to the historic RIB Discovery³ (Figures 2 & 3). Uranium mineralization discovered along the MRC consists of Athabasca style mineralization including basement, sandstone, and unconformity hosted. The MRC remains open in all directions within the discovery areas with additional prospective strike length constrained only by a lack of additional MMT survey data south of the Historic RIB Discovery. Additional MMT surveys paired with 3D EM Inversion modeling is planned for 2026, designed to unlock and define the true scale and significance of the MRC and the entirety of the Angikuni Basin.

Detailed lithologic striplogs, including assay results tables, for all twelve holes can viewed in the Supplementary Release on ATHA Energy’s website (Striplog Data).

Figure 1: Angilak Project Area – 2025 Exploration Target Area (Black Rectangles), Mineralized RIB Corridor (Red Rectangle), & Mapped Historic Mineralized Showings

Figure 2: 2025 Angilak Exploration Program – EM Inversion Model & Drill Collar Locations from MRC, along the RIB-Nine Iron Trend.

Figure 3: 2025 Angilak Exploration Program – Isometric schematic of the MRC, displaying EM Inversion model and 2025 drilling.

Table 1: 2025 Angilak Exploration Program Drill Collar Information

^{*Previously released drillholes from 2025 Angilak Exploration Program}

Figure 4: Striplog RIBE-DD-003 showing mineralized interval with composite uranium mineralization¹ with average grades – derived from assay samples.

Figure 5: Striplog RIBE-DD-007 showing mineralized interval with composite uranium mineralization¹ with average grades – derived from assay samples.

Figure 6: Striplog RIBW-DD-001 showing mineralized interval with composite uranium mineralization¹ with average grades – derived from assay samples.

Figure 7: Striplog RIBW-DD-003 showing mineralized interval with composite uranium mineralization¹ with average grades – derived from assay samples.

Figure 8: Striplog RIBS-DD-001 showing mineralized interval with composite uranium mineralization¹ with average grades – derived from assay samples.

Assay Samples

^1.Composite mineralization is calculated using a 0.01% U₃O₈ cutoff with a maximum internal dilution of 1.5 m.

²The Company considers high-grade mineralization to be any interval over 1% U₃O₈.

All drill intercepts are core width and true thickness is yet to be determined.

Core samples are submitted to the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) Geoanalytical Laboratories in Saskatoon. The SRC facility is ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (scope of accreditation #537). The samples are analyzed for a multi-element suite using partial and total digestion inductively coupled plasma methods, for boron by Na2O2 fusion, and for uranium by fluorimetry.

References for Historic Diamond Drilling Results and Surficial Sampling

³For additional information regarding ATHA’s Angilak Project please refer to the Technical Report entitled “Technical Report on the Angilak Property, Nunavut, Canada” with an effective date of October 14, 2025, prepared by Matt Batty, MSc, P. Geo, who is a “qualified person” under NI 43-101, available under ATHA’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Cliff Revering, P.Eng., Vice President, Exploration of ATHA, who is a “qualified person” as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About ATHA

ATHA is a Canadian mineral company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and development of uranium assets in the pursuit of a clean energy future. With a strategically balanced portfolio including three 100%-owned post discovery uranium projects (the Angilak Project located in Nunavut, and CMB Discoveries in Labrador, and the newly discovered basement hosted GMZ high-grade uranium discovery located in the Athabasca Basin). In addition, the Company holds the largest cumulative prospective exploration land package (>7 million acres) in two of the world’s most prominent basins for uranium discoveries – ATHA is well positioned to drive value. ATHA also holds a 10% carried interest in key Athabasca Basin exploration projects operated by NexGen Energy Ltd. and IsoEnergy Ltd. For more information visit www.athaenergy.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Troy Boisjoli, CEO, ATHA Energy Corp

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.

For more information, please contact:

Troy Boisjoli

Chief Executive Officer

Email: info@athaenergy.com

Website: www.athaenergy.com

Phone: 1-(236)-521-0526

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to ATHA’s proposed exploration program, including statements with respect to the expected benefits of ATHA’s proposed exploration program, any results that may be derived from ATHA’s proposed exploration program, the timing, scope, nature, breadth and other information related to ATHA’s proposed exploration program, any results that may be derived from the diversification of ATHA’s portfolio, the prospects of ATHA’s projects, including mineral resources estimates and mineralization of each project, the prospects of ATHA’s business plans and any expectations with respect to defining mineral resources or mineral reserves on any of ATHA’s projects, and any expectation with respect to any permitting, development or other work that may be required to bring any of the projects into development or production.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at the time, are inherently subject to business, market and economic risks, uncertainties and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions that the anticipated benefits of ATHA’s proposed exploration program will be realized, that no additional permit or licenses will be required in connection with ATHA’s exploration programs, the ability of ATHA to complete its exploration activities as currently expected and on the current anticipated timelines, including ATHA’s proposed exploration program, that ATHA will be able to execute on its current plans, that ATHA’s proposed explorations will yield results as expected, and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although ATHA has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Such statements represent the current view of ATHA with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by ATHA, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the following: inability of ATHA to realize the benefits anticipated from the exploration and drilling targets described herein or elsewhere; in ability of ATHA to complete current exploration plans as presently anticipated or at all; inability for ATHA to economically realize on the benefits, if any, derived from the exploration program; failure to complete business plans as it currently anticipated; overdiversification of ATHA’s portfolio; failure to realize on benefits, if any, of a diversified portfolio; unanticipated changes in market price for ATHA shares; changes to ATHA’s current and future business and exploration plans and the strategic alternatives available thereto; growth prospects and outlook of the business of ATHA; and the ability to advance the Company projects and its proposed exploration program; risks inherent in mineral exploration including risks related worker safety, weather and other natural occurrences, accidents, availability of personnel and equipment, and other factors; aboriginal title; failure to obtain regulatory and permitting approvals; no known mineral resources/reserves; reliance on key management and other personnel; competition; changes in laws and regulations; uninsurable risks; delays in governmental and other approvals, community relations; stock market conditions generally; demand, supply and pricing for uranium; and general economic and political conditions in Canada, Australia and other jurisdictions where ATHA conducts business. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in the filings of ATHA with the Canadian securities regulators which are available on ATHA’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. ATHA does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: ATHA Energy Corp

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 10, 2025 / SMX (NASDAQ:SMX) has entered a defining moment in its evolution. The company’s molecular marking technology is gaining global relevance at the same time industries are demanding authenticated materials, verified supply chains, and trusted digital documentation. The market is signaling that the era of unverifiable claims is ending, and SMX is positioned at the center of what comes next.

To support this acceleration, the company finalized an amendment to its standby equity purchase agreement, initially announced in December. The revised structure strengthens SMX’s financial foundation, increases strategic flexibility, and aligns the company’s capital profile with the scale of its commercial opportunity. The terms contain no toxic convertible mechanics, no resets, and no predatory features typically associated with microcap financings. Instead, the agreement reflects a clean, controlled structure built to support long-term growth rather than short-term volatility.

The amended agreement delivers clarity, stability, and long-term capacity at a moment when the company is preparing for expanded global adoption. It does more than update financial terms. It positions SMX to advance its mission with conviction, free from the structural distractions that often challenge emerging technology companies.

The following four takeaways explain why this development matters.

Takeaway 1: A materially stronger capital position with a clean structure

The amended agreement increases SMX’s available financing by an additional $5,000,000 in cash proceeds. With a 20% original issue discount, the new note carries a face value of $6,250,000, bringing the total available financing under the facility from $111,500,000 to $116,500,000. This expansion deepens the liquidity available to the company as it enters a period of accelerated commercial engagement and prepares for expanded deployment across global industries.

Equally important is the structure itself. The financing remains clean and disciplined. There are no warrants. No resets. No ratchets. No floating conversions. No hidden triggers. Nothing that resembles a death spiral. The word “convertible” describes only the investor’s ability to exchange principal for equity under a fixed and fully negotiated VWAP formula. The economics are set at issuance. The structure is predictable and transparent, which stands in sharp contrast to the highly leveraged or toxic financing arrangements often seen in the microcap space.

The clarity of this structure aligns with the company’s long-term vision. SMX has always sought capital partners who understand the strategic importance of its technology and who support growth rather than volatility. The amended agreement demonstrates that alignment. It expands resources without compromising integrity, giving SMX a stronger foundation on which to scale.

Takeaway 2: A clear capital runway with no expected financing needs until at least Q1 2027

One of the most significant outcomes of the amended agreement is the extension of the company’s capital runway. Based on the combined impact of the initial financing tranche of more than $10 million, the expanded note, and the strengthened facility structure, SMX does not expect to require additional external financing until at least Q1 2027. This creates a degree of stability and visibility that is uncommon in the microcap landscape and allows the company to focus entirely on commercial execution rather than near-term capital markets activity.

Equally important is the timing of any potential share delivery associated with the note structure. Shares that could be presented as payment toward these notes are not expected to come into consideration until Q1 2026 at the earliest. This means the company does not anticipate any dilution from this agreement in 2025, thereby preserving the share structure at a time when operational momentum and commercial adoption are accelerating. The combination of cash resources and timing control ensures that the company’s outstanding share count remains stable well into 2026.

This sequencing matters. SMX is not being drawn into the cycle of continual dilution that often challenges emerging companies. The agreement is structured so that any potential share-based settlement occurs only if and when it supports the company’s strategy, not as an immediate requirement. As a result, no near-term dilution is needed to satisfy these notes, and the company maintains full flexibility to manage its capital position from a place of strength.

This shift changes how the market should view SMX. The company is no longer operating from a position of capital necessity. It is operating from a position of capital control. That distinction allows SMX to grow without compromise and to focus on proving out its technology in the highest-value applications globally.

Takeaway 3: No dilution until at least Q1 2026 and limited borrow supply for short sellers

Another critical aspect of the amendment is the preservation of share structure integrity. Other than routine RSUs and previously authorized equity awards, the company does not anticipate any dilution related to this agreement until at least Q1 2026. This means the outstanding share count remains stable and predictable during this period. Investors can evaluate performance without uncertainty around share expansion.

The tight structure also influences market mechanics. With no new shares entering the float from this facility until Q1 2026, market borrow availability remains limited. Short sellers may not have sufficient shares to unwind their exposure, and SMX is not providing incremental equity that would otherwise ease these positions. The structure is disciplined, and the market must operate within the existing float.

This stability aligns with the behavior of SMX’s shareholder base, which has shown conviction and alignment with the company’s mission. The combination of a committed investor base and a constrained share structure creates an environment defined by long-term orientation rather than short-term volatility. It reinforces the company’s belief that shareholder support is one of its strongest strategic assets.

Takeaway 4: Removal of the digital asset obligation reflects prudent financial management

The amendment removes the requirement that SMX allocate a portion of proceeds to digital assets. The original provision existed to secure the notes with alternative collateral. The company and investors jointly determined that the current volatility in the digital asset market made a mandatory allocation inappropriate at this time. Removing the requirement enhances flexibility and ensures that capital remains available for operational expansion, customer acquisition, and strategic investment.

This shift does not reflect a change in the company’s long-term optionality. SMX will retain the right, but not the obligation, to purchase digital assets in the future if market conditions warrant such an allocation. The amendment ensures the company is not bound to a volatile asset class during a period where fiscal discipline and operational precision matter most.

The decision reflects responsible financial stewardship. SMX is preparing for increased enterprise activity, new sector engagements, and expansion into multiple regions. Maintaining flexibility over capital allocation strengthens the company’s ability to execute without distraction. The amendment ensures that every dollar raised serves the highest-value purpose in the near term.

A Deal That Resets SMX’s Trajectory

This amendment marks a turning point for SMX. It is more than a structural refinement. It is the reshaping of the company’s financial base to match the scale of its mission. With increased liquidity, a controlled share structure, and the removal of obligations no longer aligned with the company’s strategy, SMX has strengthened the foundation needed to support global adoption of its technology. The company enters 2026 with clarity in its capital framework and confidence in its ability to deploy resources where they create the greatest strategic impact.

The strengthened agreement also reflects a high degree of alignment between SMX and its financing partners. The company secured additional capital without toxic terms, without expanding dilution, and without compromising the stability of its share structure. These are signs of a financing relationship built on trust, long-term vision, and shared belief in the role SMX’s technology will play across global supply chains. The amendment creates a multi-year runway, enabling management to advance commercialization without the distraction or uncertainty of near-term capital needs.

SMX now stands in a materially stronger position as it moves into 2026 and beyond. The company is better financed, less diluted, and more strategically flexible than at any point in its public life. With stable capitalization, an increasingly aligned shareholder base, and a strengthened operating horizon extending into 2027, SMX is positioned to scale, execute, and lead. The agreement in its amended form is not simply an improvement. It adds to an inflection point that allows SMX to build its next chapter from a place of stability, strength, and conviction.

About SMX

As global businesses face new and complex challenges relating to carbon neutrality and meeting new governmental and regional regulations and standards, SMX is able to offer players along the value chain access to its marking, tracking, measuring and digital platform technology to transition more successfully to a low-carbon economy.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions, or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts, events, or circumstances that SMX expects, believes, or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including statements relating to the Company’s business strategy, financial position, future operations, future revenues, projected costs, prospects, plans, and objectives of management, as well as statements regarding the Company’s liquidity position, capital needs, anticipated financing timelines, expected dilution, future share issuances, the anticipated use of proceeds, expected performance of the amended financing agreement, market conditions, adoption of the Company’s technology, commercial pipeline, regulatory approvals, industry trends, competitive position, and any assumptions underlying the foregoing, are forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions regarding future events and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks relating to: the Company’s ability to successfully execute its operating plans; the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms or at all; the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with Nasdaq listing standards; market conditions and volatility in the trading price of the Company’s ordinary shares; dilution that may result from the Company’s existing financing arrangements; the Company’s ability to access capital under the standby equity purchase agreement and related amendments; the timing and occurrence of any closings under such agreements; the Company’s expectations regarding its financial runway and future capital needs; risks associated with the Company’s ability to scale its technology, secure customer adoption, or convert pilot programs into commercial deployments; risks relating to supply chain conditions and global economic trends; the Company’s dependence on key personnel; the Company’s ability to maintain intellectual property protection and defend against infringement claims; changes in applicable laws and regulations; general economic, political, and market conditions; risks relating to digital asset markets and the Company’s potential future acquisition or holding of digital assets; and other factors detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F and its subsequent reports filed with the SEC.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made and are not guarantees of future performance. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated due to various risks and uncertainties, and all forward-looking statements contained herein are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact: info@securitymattersltd.com

SOURCE: SMX (Security Matters) Public Limited

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Raleigh-Durham’s Flexible Labor Activity Soared 50%, Underscoring Inland Momentum as Affordability Gaps Deepened in High-Cost Markets Like San Francisco and Seattle

SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / December 10, 2025 / Instawork today released The Year in Flexible Labor 2025, an annual view of the real-time labor dynamics that shaped local economies this year.

Based on millions of completed shifts across 150 markets, the real-time data shows affordability as the dominant force determining where businesses operate and where workers choose to earn. While major markets remained the busiest for total shifts, inland regions, particularly parts of North Carolina, Ohio, and Tennessee, saw the fastest acceleration in demand. This aligns with recent Census data showing that the fastest-growing U.S. metros were in Southern and inland markets.¹

Logistics and manufacturing operations show a similar pattern. A 2025 study of 50 U.S. metro areas found that warehousing and distribution activity has increasingly re-concentrated in inland and mid-sized markets rather than coastal hubs, driven by land availability, operating costs, and proximity to regional supply chains.² Instawork’s flexible labor data captures this trend in real-time.

Key Insights From Instawork Year in Flexible Labor 2025

1. Affordability Increased Staffing Pressure

Several major markets continued to show the largest demand for flexible work, but affordability challenges intensified sharply in 2025:

San Francisco and Seattle recorded the widest wage-inflation gaps, with real wages falling further behind the cost of essential goods.³

That pressure coincided with population and cost trends in inland markets where wage growth held closer to inflation and operating costs remained more stable.

2. Inland Metros Drove the Fastest Shift Growth

As affordability tightened in coastal markets, inland regions captured the strongest gains in flexible labor activity, reflecting broader economic and population expansion in the South and Midwest. Raleigh-Durham led the way with a surge in flexible labor demand followed by Nashville, New York, Columbus, and Dallas.

3. Core Operational Roles and Midweek Demand Held Steady

General labor, warehouse work, back-of-house kitchen roles, and event staffing were in the highest demand throughout 2025, with businesses leaning on flexible staffing to manage an uncertain business environment.

Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Tuesdays (in that order) remained the busiest shift days, giving workers predictable midweek opportunities, while maintaining schedule and income flexibility.

4. Wage Movement by Occupation

Role-level wage trends varied, reflecting local cost pressures and staffing needs. Merchandisers saw the strongest wage growth, followed by brand ambassadors, security personnel, and entry-level warehouse workers. Hotel housekeepers, food service workers, and forklift drivers experienced slight declines.

2025 Totals at a Glance

Top 5 most requested roles:

General Labor, Warehouse Associate, Line Cook, Event Server, Dishwasher

Fastest-growing markets:

Raleigh-Durham, Nashville, New York, Columbus, Dallas

Peak shift days:

Wednesday, Thursday, Tuesday (in order)

Average fill rate: 95%

Stat of the Year

Raleigh-Durham’s 50% shift growth and North Carolina’s broader population gains reflect a structural rise in inland economic activity, consistent with population and supply chain operations growth.^{1 2}

Signals for 2026

Inland momentum will grow as businesses seek more predictable and lower-cost markets.

Wages and role demand will continue to vary as businesses respond to global economic uncertainty and cost pressures, which impact staffing needs.

Flexible staffing will continue serving as an affordability hedge, allowing operators to match labor to demand in real-time.

Major markets with improving wage-inflation alignment (e.g., New York, Atlanta) may become more attractive for logistics and hospitality expansion.

1. U.S. Census Bureau, “Metro Area Trends” (2025) and “Vintage 2024 Population Estimates”, showing growth in 88% of U.S. metros and fastest growth concentrated in Southern/inland cities.

2. ScienceDirect (2025), “Re-concentration of logistics activities across 50 U.S. metros,” documenting the inland/mid-sized shift in warehousing and distribution activity.

3. Instawork’s Quarterly Wage Index, December 2025

About Instawork

Instawork’s mission is to create economic opportunities for businesses and hourly workers across the globe. As the leading AI-powered marketplace for hourly labor, Instawork connects light industrial, hospitality, retail, and robotics companies to skilled workers, turning staffing agility into a competitive advantage. Instawork helps more than nine million workers earn on their terms while developing valuable skills.

Backed by leading investors such as Benchmark, Craft, Greylock, and Spark Capital, Instawork is redefining how businesses stay resilient and how people work.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

Dubai-based serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist Alexander Rugaev introduces boutique advisory focused on small-cap and micro-cap IPOs and direct listings for AI, robotics and fintech founders.

DUBAI, AE / ACCESS Newswire / December 9, 2025 / AR Ventures today announced the launch of a new IPO consulting practice that helps fast-growing technology startups access public markets through small-cap IPOs, micro-cap IPOs and direct listings of shares – without surrendering control to late-stage venture capital.

Founded by serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist Alexander Rugaev, AR Ventures works with revenue-generating startups across AI, robotics, fintech and SaaS that are ready to scale globally but are too small – or too independent – for billion-dollar VC funds. The new service is designed to show founders that “go public” is no longer a distant endgame, but a realistic financing option at much earlier stages.

“Founders are told the only path is round after round of VC and a distant exit,” said Alexander Rugaev, founder of AR Ventures. “That story is outdated. In many cases, a small-cap IPO or micro-cap IPO can deliver more capital, better valuation and real liquidity – while the founder keeps the steering wheel of the company.”

More information about AR Ventures is available at https://arventures.io and about Alexander Rugaev at https://rugaev.com.

Solving the “stuck between VC rounds” problem

Many startups with solid revenue, real customers and proven products still struggle to raise growth capital. They are too advanced for seed funds, not big enough for late-stage megafunds, and often unwilling to accept the heavy dilution and aggressive governance that comes with another private round.

AR Ventures’ small-cap IPO consulting service focuses on this underserved segment:

• B2B or B2C tech companies with repeatable revenue

• Typically $5-100 million in annual revenue and strong growth

• Operating in regulated, high-trust sectors such as AI, robotics, fintech, infrastructure and industrial tech

• Ready to enter or expand in global markets, but constrained by private funding options

For these founders, a small-cap or micro-cap listing on exchanges such as NYSE American or similar global small-cap markets can be a powerful alternative to another dilutive financing round.

What the new IPO advisory service includes

AR Ventures provides end-to-end guidance on how to take a startup public at a smaller scale:

• IPO vs VC diagnostic – Independent assessment of whether a small-cap IPO, micro-cap IPO, direct listing or another structure creates more value than a traditional equity round.

• Corporate and cap table structuring – Optimizing jurisdiction, share classes and voting structure so founders can raise capital while preserving 60-80% voting control, where feasible under local rules.

• Exchange and listing strategy – Evaluating small-cap and micro-cap boards, minimum requirements, auditor standards and realistic valuation ranges.

• Equity story and investor materials – Crafting the IPO narrative, investor deck, financial model and prospectus-ready story that resonate with public-market investors.

• Deal team coordination – Working alongside underwriters, legal counsel, auditors and investor relations partners throughout the listing process.

• Post-IPO support – Helping founders navigate life as a public company: disclosure discipline, investor communication, and using listed shares as currency for M&A.

“Our niche is translating Wall Street into founder language,” Rugaev added. “We sit on the founder’s side of the table and show them exactly what it takes to do a small-cap IPO or direct listing – the costs, the timelines, the realistic outcomes – so they can make an informed decision instead of blindly following the VC playbook.”

Why small-cap IPOs and direct listings are back on the agenda

Public markets have evolved. Today, micro-cap and small-cap IPOs can:

• Provide earlier liquidity to founders and early investors

• Unlock higher valuation multiples than late-stage private rounds in many tech verticals

• Open doors to institutional, family-office and sovereign investors who rarely participate in small private deals

• Strengthen brand credibility with enterprise and government customers who prefer public, transparent counterparties

At the same time, improved electronic trading, research platforms and global investor access make it easier for well-positioned small issuers to reach their audience. AR Ventures’ thesis is that a growing number of “real economy” AI, robotics and fintech startups are now better served by public capital markets than by another dilutive round from traditional venture capital.

Founder-first philosophy

Rugaev built the practice around a simple principle: control is an asset.

“I’ve seen too many great companies lose their original vision because control slowly slipped away through multiple rounds,” he said. “Our goal with IPO consulting for small-cap and micro-cap listings is to give founders a third option: raise serious capital, become a public company, but stay in charge of the mission.”

AR Ventures typically works with founders from MENA, Europe and Asia, but the firm also supports cross-border listings and dual-jurisdiction strategies where they make sense.

Call to action

Founders and investors interested in exploring a small-cap IPO, micro-cap IPO or direct listing of shares can learn more and request an initial consultation at:

• AR Ventures – https://arventures.io

• Alexander Rugaev – https://rugaev.com

• LinkedIn (contact and updates) – https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrugaev/

About AR Ventures

AR Ventures is a Dubai-based advisory firm focused on IPO consulting, capital markets strategy and growth advisory for technology companies. The firm specializes in helping AI, robotics, fintech and SaaS startups access global capital markets through small-cap and micro-cap IPOs, direct listings and innovative financing structures. AR Ventures acts as a founder-side advisor, working alongside leading law firms, auditors, underwriters and investor-relations partners to design and execute efficient go-public strategies.

Learn more at https://arventures.io.

About Alexander Rugaev

Alexander Rugaev is an entrepreneur and venture capitalist with deep experience in startups, AI, robotics and public markets. Based in Dubai, he advises founders on IPO readiness, capital raising and global expansion, with a strong focus on minimizing dilution and preserving founder control. Rugaev is also an active commentator on the future of AI, robotics and capital markets, sharing insights via his website https://rugaev.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexrugaev/.

Media Contact

Vera Muller
Email: info@arventures.io

SOURCE: AR Ventures

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