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Battery Storage Additions Rival Historic Gas-Power Buildout, IEA Data Show

SYDNEY/BEIJING, Sept 15, 2026 - Global battery storage additions reached about 108 gigawatts in 2025, up roughly 40% from a year earlier, International Energy Agency data show. The volume rivals the record annual buildout of gas-fired power capacity set in 2002.

In markets with high rooftop-solar penetration, growth has been especially rapid in the residential and small-commercial segment, where storage is increasingly used to manage local supply-demand imbalances rather than purely as emergency backup power. Australia illustrates the shift.Growth is fastest in the residential and small-commercial segment, where storage is increasingly used to manage local supply-demand imbalances rather than purely as emergency backup power.

Australia illustrates the shift. High rooftop-solar penetration has pushed midday wholesale power prices to negative or near zero in roughly a fifth of trading intervals on the National Electricity Market, market data show.

Evening demand ramps, meanwhile, have grown by as much as 2 gigawatts in some mainland states. The imbalance has changed the economics of exporting household solar. Federal and state subsidy programs introduced in 2025 cover a significant share of battery installation costs.

Australia's Clean Energy Council reported that residential battery installations surpassed 268,000 units in 2025, up 260% from a year earlier. Even so, only about one in ten of the roughly 4.3 million Australian households with rooftop solar has storage installed — a gap that industry participants say points to a large untapped market.

A Widening Set of Entrants

The convergence of electric-vehicle adoption, rooftop solar and home battery storage has drawn interest from companies outside the traditional utility and battery-manufacturing sectors. Financing, insurance and mobility-services providers that already have relationships with households — particularly those that own electric vehicles — are among those evaluating the category, industry participants say, as storage shifts from a hardware-led sale toward one that combines hardware, software, local installation and ongoing service.

Companies in adjacent sectors have signaled early interest in the space. Cheche Group Inc. (Nasdaq: CCG), a Beijing-based technology platform serving China’s auto-insurance industry, disclosed this month a non-binding term sheet for a proposed strategic investment in a residential solar-and-storage business with operations in Australia and Singapore. The term sheet does not obligate the company to complete a transaction. Any investment would remain subject to due diligence, the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, and regulatory and other approvals, including from Nasdaq. There is no assurance that a transaction will be completed. If completed, the investment would leave residential storage as a potential longer-term growth option for Cheche Group, alongside its existing auto-insurance and mobility services. Households that already own electric vehicles are also the more natural buyers of rooftop solar and home batteries, which is why an auto-insurance platform would look at the category at all. In high-solar markets where most rooftop systems still have no battery attached, that overlap is why the category is seen as having substantial room to grow.

  1. FinanceCotecna Group Acquires Energon Labs, Strengthening Global Pharmaceutical Testing Capabilities and Expanding its Presence in IndiaGENEVA, Switzerland and HYDERABAD, India, Oct 16, 2026 - Cotecna, a leading provider of Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) services, today announced the acquisition of Energon Labs, a cGMP-compliant, USFDA-inspected, ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 certified analytical testing laboratory based in Hyderabad, India. The acquisition strengthens Cotecna's global Life Sciences platform and expands its pharmaceutical testing capabilities across the Pharmaceutical, Biopharmaceutical, Medical Device and Packaging sectors. Serving customers across India, the United States, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, Energon is recognized for its scientific excellence, regulatory expertise and commitment to quality. Strategically located in Hyderabad, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology hubs, Energon provides Cotecna with access to highly specialized scientific talent, advanced laboratory infrastructure and a well-established pharmaceutical ecosystem. India is also one of the world's fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets and a critical manufacturing hub for global healthcare supply chains. The acquisition enhances the Cotecna's ability to support both Indian and international customers with high-quality, regulatory-compliant testing services while delivering greater responsiveness, scalability and operational efficiency across key markets. The addition of Energon further complements Cotecna's growing pharmaceutical testing network which includes Cotecna Life Sciences, Shiva Analyticals and Neotron Pharma. Together, this capabilities strengthen the Group's ability to support customers throughout the product lifecycle and address evolving global quality, compliance and regulatory requirements. Energon offers a comprehensive portfolio of analytical testing and quality assurance services, including analytical method development and validation, stability studies, impurity profiling, extractables and leachables, glass delamination studies, peptides and oligonucleotide characterisation, raw material and finished product testing, in-vitro binding studies, packaging compatibility studies, and regulatory support services. These capabilities will further strengthen Cotecna's position as a trusted partner to pharmaceutical manufacturers serving regulated markets worldwide. Sébastien Dannaud, Chief Executive Officer of Cotecna Group, commented: “We are pleased to welcome Energon Labs to the Cotecna Group. This acquisition represents another important step to support our ambition to become one of the largest providers of Life Sciences testing services in India,and strengthens our position in one of the world's most important pharmaceutical markets.” Amit Chopra, CEO South Asia and Middle East, Cotecna Group, added: "I am delighted to welcome Manikanth Reddy and the talented team of Energon Labs to the Cotecna group. This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategy of building a comprehensive pharmaceutical testing ecosystem across key growth markets. Energon's strong technical capabilities, experienced team and established customer relationships will enhance our ability to serve pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical and medical device companies across India and globally. Together, we are creating a stronger platform to support the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. " Manikanth Reddy, Founder, Energon, said: "Joining the Cotecna Group opens an exciting new chapter for Energon Labs. Over the years, we have focused on building a laboratory recognized for quality, scientific expertise and reliability. Becoming part of a global organization like Cotecna provides new opportunities to expand our capabilities, strengthen our service offerings and deliver even greater value to our customers. Our team remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of analytical excellence while supporting the continued growth of the life sciences industry.” About Energon Labs Energon Labs is a cGMP-compliant, USFDA-inspected, ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17025:2017 certified analytical testing laboratory located in Hyderabad, India. The company provides comprehensive analytical testing, quality assurance and regulatory support services to pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, medical device and packaging industries, serving customers across India, the United States, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. About Cotecna Founded in Switzerland in 1974, Cotecna is a leading provider of Testing, Inspection and Certification services. With operations in more than 55 countries, Cotecna helps clients ensure quality, safety, compliance and sustainability across global supply chains. The Group serves customers across agriculture and food, pharmaceuticals, minerals and metals, consumer products, certification and ESG services through a worldwide network of experts, laboratories and technical specialists.
  2. AI晶晨赴港 蘋果入場：家庭AI之爭 為什麼還要看華曦達？香港, 2026年10月16日 - 晶晨股份推進赴港上市，映射出家庭終端的一輪功能變化：電視、機頂盒和攝像頭，正在從播放、連接與記錄設備，轉向能夠理解信息的AI入口。 這家已於2019年登陸科創板的公司，近期獲得境外發行上市備案。2026年上半年收入同比增長31.86%；據招股材料報道，2024年全球每三台智能機頂盒、每五台智能電視，分別有一台搭載其芯片。 作為深耕家庭視訊芯片多年的企業，憑藉十餘年技術積澱與戰略轉型魄力，晶晨成為了影音終端SoC芯片的絕對領導者，但他們的增長故事，並無因此停下腳步。隨着人工智能技術的崛起與物聯網的普及，晶晨敏鋭捕捉到端側智能的發展機遇，確立了聚焦端側AI的核心戰略，開啟了從單一功能芯片到多模態智能SoC的升級之路。截至 2025 年，晶晨已有超 20 款量產芯片集成自研端側 AI 算力單元（NPU），該類芯片 2025 年出貨量突破 2000 萬顆、同比增長 160%。 更聰明的一招，應該是他們深度綁定谷歌生態的底層策略，通過適配Gemini大模型，晶晨股份的芯片技術標準與市場認可度顯著提升，憑著大幅拋離對手的家庭影音終端巿場巿佔率，下一波具判斷、分析、感知、記憶能力的AI家庭終端產品將化身新成長曲綫，資本巿場的聚焦點，很可能由硬核的AI基建半導體板塊，轉移到AI應用細分巿場內的產業鏈頭部企業。 端側AI爆發前夜：谷歌、蘋果同時按下快進鍵 大模型技術的成熟，輕量化落地成為必然趨勢。尤其是谷歌Gemini Nano的輕量化版本，較好地解決了端側設備「算力—功耗」的核心矛盾，讓AI推理在本地實現低延遲，推動端側AI芯片需求迎來爆發式增長。根據弗若斯特沙利文預測，2025—2029年，全球端側AI市場規模將從3219億元增至1.22萬億元，年複合增長率高達40%，萬億級藍海空間釋放出強勁的增長機遇。視覺處理、語音交互以及AI推理能力的需求持續提升。 今年5月，谷歌在Google I/O 供應商大會上正式公告了Google Home Gemini Built-in 計劃，Google Home APIs將連接數億台設備，Gemini能夠在既有連接基礎上提供理解與交互能力。不足半年後，Apple於10月13日正式發佈HomeView，將娛樂、通訊和家庭管理集中在一台設備中，並推出一系統智能互連的AIoT 家庭終端。兩大生態陣營彷佛在同步宣告，AI 家庭時代正式降臨，過去20年消費電子兩大陣營的龍爭虎鬥，正在家庭場景延續上演。 值得注意的是，晶晨同時被官宣成為該項目的指定系統集成商，為全球廠商提供「晶片 + 演算法 + 生態」的一站式支持。萬事俱備，只欠東風。晶晨、谷歌兩大巨頭摩拳擦掌，這個AI家居產品的新戰略機遇，最終將如何落地? 從一顆芯片到一套方案：華曦達AI Home整合者卡位 術業有專攻，根據谷歌過去在消費電子類產品的運營邏輯，大概率是選擇牢牢緊抱生態及底層系統，而把AI HOME大腦的端側AI中樞設備，以及實現各種感知交互的終端如IP攝像頭，智能音箱，中控屏等放進家庭的工作，交給產業夥伴快速擴大執行。當中，在海外巿場如歐洲、美洲、東南亞等，目前看最大的推手是國際運營商及其設備設備夥伴。 從財務數字分析，這個產業鏈發展的必然趨勢正逐步得到印證。今年5月在香港上市，被部分媒體稱為「AI Home第一股」的華曦達，上半年的派出的成績表高度吻合，2026年上半年收入同比增長36.3%，淨利潤同比增長75.9%，與晶晨等芯片玩家增速接近。根據沙利文報告列示，華曦達是深度綁定谷歌生態，家庭智能中樞盒子的主要玩家，在部份細分巿場如Android TV (ATV) 終端的出貨中佔比最高，業務覆蓋80多個國家和地區，累計服務300多家運營商及零售品牌客戶。 這個結合芯片商、生態、軟硬件設計開發、電訊運營商的共嬴夥伴模式似乎還是起步階段。在9月份的IBC 2026展會上，華曦達與晶晨聯合公佈深化合作，將結合芯片及NPU能力、系統集成與AI應用適配，展示AI智能屏和AI電視盒。這個合作提供了一個觀察窗口：家庭終端的升級，正在從「選用一顆新芯片」，走向圍繞芯片、軟件和場景共同設計產品。在同一屆IBC上，華曦達甚至還展示了具備最高2,070 TFLOPS 算力的AI Station端側AI 產品。有接近管理層的產業人士透露，至2030年，預料公司出貨的智能盒子中，將有60%以上具備算力。隨著AI家庭終端產品的落地，看來AI基建投資在化整為零，由Data Center的基建，改變為進入家庭的端側AI基建。 當然站在家庭AI賽道上的不止一家，創維數字憑藉廣電系資源與國內運營商渠道佔據機頂盒龍頭位置；感臻（SEI Robotics）同為谷歌生態的Android TV設備主力廠商，與華曦達在國際運營商的貨架上正面交鋒。這就意味者，家庭AI的競爭已從單品勝負轉為生態合流的效率之爭，巨頭出標準與模型，芯片商出算力，在這之後，誰能夠把設備裝進家庭、讓服務跑起來，誰就補足了家庭AI的最後一塊拼圖。無論終局由出貨規模的領先者還是服務收入的破局者書寫，2026年都將是這場競賽真正起跑的一年。
  3. FinanceAlkagesta Advances ESG Commitments Across Asian and European Markets Amid Record Trading PerformanceSINGAPORE, Oct 16, 2026 - As energy commodity markets grew more volatile and complex throughout 2026, Alkagesta has advanced a series of environmental, social, and governance commitments across its global trading platform — reflecting a conviction that responsible growth and commercial growth are not in tension, but are built on the same foundations. ESG: Responsible Trading Across Asian and European Markets Among the most distinctive of those commitments is the investment by Alkagesta in Clean Caspian, an environmental research start-up developing technologies to contain oil spills and separate oil from contaminated water in enclosed marine ecosystems. Alkagesta invested in the project in May 2026, recognising that as a trader of petroleum products, oil spill risk is one of the most material environmental exposures associated with its business. In September 2026, the Clean Caspian team completed Phase I of its research, identifying two formulations for oil spill response — a two-stage approach combining a surface-localising reagent with a flocculant-coagulant to enable more efficient oil-water separation. Phase II will optimise both formulations, test them under different environmental conditions, and progress patent applications. Across sustainable fuels, Alkagesta secured a five-year feedstock offtake agreement for Used Cooking Oil and a multi-year biofuel storage agreement at Pantank in Antwerp, bringing total storage capacity across Europe and Asia to 700,000 m³. Alkagesta holds ISCC EU and ISCC CORSIA certifications, underpinning the ability to trade and supply certified sustainable fuels across aviation and marine sectors. The ESG Framework governing these commitments is publicly available on the Alkagesta website. In 2026, the company also received the EcoVadis Committed Badge — an independently assessed recognition of sustainability performance across environmental, social, ethical, and procurement dimensions. For Alkagesta, ESG is not a reporting exercise — it is a framework for managing the real risks that come with trading energy commodities across approximately 48 countries, and for building the long-term institutional relationships on which sustainable growth depends. Those commitments are not separate from the commercial business — they are embedded in how it operates. Nowhere is that clearer than in Singapore, where Alkagesta has built a marine fuels hub from the ground up over the past year, combining rapid commercial growth with the risk management and compliance standards that define the company's approach across all markets. Singapore: A Market Position Built from the Ground Up Established under Alkagesta Asia Pte in July 2025, the Singapore hub reached monthly delivered volumes of approximately 250,000 metric tonnes — around 5% of Singapore's marine fuels market — within its first full year of operations. First-half 2026 revenue from the hub reached $1.01 billion, representing approximately 171% growth versus the full year 2025, with 1.65 million metric tonnes delivered — up 104% from 0.81 million metric tonnes across the full year 2025. The performance was built on a deliberate infrastructure-first approach: securing storage capacity at Horizon Terminal, developing a distribution business in the short market, and assembling a team of trading, operations, and finance professionals capable of operating through one of the most complex periods in recent marine fuels market history. The hub navigated significant prompt availability constraints, elevated freight rates, and Persian Gulf supply friction throughout the year — emerging with a stronger commercial position and a deeper network of counterparty relationships. These results form part of a record first half for Alkagesta globally. Group revenue reached $3.5 billion in the first half of 2026, with trading volumes rising 53% year on year to 4.9 million metric tonnes. Full-year 2026 group volumes are expected to exceed 10 million metric tonnes, building on a record 2025 financial year in which Alkagesta generated $4.7 billion in revenue. Orkhan Rustamov, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Alkagesta, commented: "These results reflect the progress we have made through a measured and disciplined approach to growth. Despite significant volatility across global commodities markets, our focus has remained on serving our clients reliably and building our business on strong, long-term relationships. We will continue to grow strategically, step by step, strengthening our presence in the markets where we operate and ensuring that our communication lines, capabilities and regional networks remain resilient." Media contact Brand: Alkagesta Contact: Media team Website: https://www.alkagesta.com
  4. AI晶晨赴港 苹果入场：家庭AI之争 为什么还要看华曦达？香港, 2026年10月16日 - (亚太商讯) - 晶晨股份推进赴港上市，映射出家庭终端的一轮功能变化：电视、机顶盒和摄像头，正在从播放、连接与记录设备，转向能够理解信息的AI入口。 这家已于2019年登陆科创板的公司，近期获得境外发行上市备案。2026年上半年收入同比增长31.86%；据招股材料报道，2024年全球每三台智能机顶盒、每五台智能电视，分别有一台搭载其芯片。 作为深耕家庭视讯芯片多年的企业，凭借十余年技术积淀与战略转型魄力，晶晨成为了影音终端SoC芯片的绝对领导者，但他们的增长故事，并无因此停下脚步。随着人工智能技术的崛起与物联网的普及，晶晨敏锐捕捉到端侧智能的发展机遇，确立了聚焦端侧AI的核心战略，开启了从单一功能芯片到多模态智能SoC的升级之路。截至 2025 年，晶晨已有超 20 款量产芯片集成自研端侧 AI 算力单元（NPU），该类芯片 2025 年出货量突破 2000 万颗、同比增长 160%。 更聪明的一招，应该是他们深度绑定谷歌生态的底层策略，通过适配Gemini大模型，晶晨股份的芯片技术标准与市场认可度显著提升，凭著大幅抛离对手的家庭影音终端巿场巿占率，下一波具判断、分析、感知、记忆能力的AI家庭终端产品将化身新成长曲线，资本巿场的聚焦点，很可能由硬核的AI基建半导体板块，转移到AI应用细分巿场内的产业链头部企业。 端侧AI爆发前夜：谷歌、苹果同时按下快进键 大模型技术的成熟，轻量化落地成为必然趋势。尤其是谷歌Gemini Nano的轻量化版本，较好地解决了端侧设备“算力—功耗”的核心矛盾，让AI推理在本地实现低延迟，推动端侧AI芯片需求迎来爆发式增长。根据弗若斯特沙利文预测，2025—2029年，全球端侧AI市场规模将从3219亿元增至1.22万亿元，年复合增长率高达40%，万亿级蓝海空间释放出强劲的增长机遇。视觉处理、语音交互以及AI推理能力的需求持续提升。 今年5月，谷歌在Google I/O 供应商大会上正式公告了Google Home Gemini Built-in 计划，Google Home APIs将连接数亿台设备，Gemini能够在既有连接基础上提供理解与交互能力。不足半年后，Apple于10月13日正式发布HomeView，将娱乐、通讯和家庭管理集中在一台设备中，并推出一系统智能互连的AIoT 家庭终端。两大生态阵营彷佛在同步宣告，AI 家庭时代正式降临，过去20年消费电子两大阵营的龙争虎斗，正在家庭场景延续上演。 值得注意的是，晶晨同时被官宣成为该项目的指定系统集成商，为全球厂商提供“晶片 + 演算法 + 生态”的一站式支持。万事俱备，只欠东风。晶晨、谷歌两大巨头摩拳擦掌，这个AI家居产品的新战略机遇，最终将如何落地？ 从一颗芯片到一套方案：华曦达AI Home整合者卡位 术业有专攻，根据谷歌过去在消费电子类产品的运营逻辑，大概率是选择牢牢紧抱生态及底层系统，而把AI HOME大脑的端侧AI中枢设备，以及实现各种感知交互的终端如IP摄像头，智能音箱，中控屏等放进家庭的工作，交给产业伙伴快速扩大执行。当中，在海外巿场如欧洲、美洲、东南亚等，目前看最大的推手是国际运营商及其设备设备伙伴。 从财务数字分析，这个产业链发展的必然趋势正逐步得到印证。今年5月在香港上市，被部分媒体称为“AI Home第一股”的华曦达，上半年的派出的成绩表高度吻合，2026年上半年收入同比增长36.3%，净利润同比增长75.9%，与晶晨等芯片玩家增速接近。根据沙利文报告列示，华曦达是深度绑定谷歌生态，家庭智能中枢盒子的主要玩家，在部份细分巿场如Android TV （ATV） 终端的出货中占比最高，业务覆盖80多个国家和地区，累计服务300多家运营商及零售品牌客户。 这个结合芯片商、生态、软硬件设计开发、电讯运营商的共嬴伙伴模式似乎还是起步阶段。在9月份的IBC 2026展会上，华曦达与晶晨联合公布深化合作，将结合芯片及NPU能力、系统集成与AI应用适配，展示AI智能屏和AI电视盒。这个合作提供了一个观察窗口：家庭终端的升级，正在从“选用一颗新芯片”，走向围绕芯片、软件和场景共同设计产品。在同一届IBC上，华曦达甚至还展示了具备最高2,070 TFLOPS 算力的AI Station端侧AI 产品。有接近管理层的产业人士透露，至2030年，预料公司出货的智能盒子中，将有60%以上具备算力。随著AI家庭终端产品的落地，看来AI基建投资在化整为零，由Data Center的基建，改变为进入家庭的端侧AI基建。 当然站在家庭AI赛道上的不止一家，创维数字凭借广电系资源与国内运营商渠道占据机顶盒龙头位置；感臻（SEI Robotics）同为谷歌生态的Android TV设备主力厂商，与华曦达在国际运营商的货架上正面交锋。这就意味者，家庭AI的竞争已从单品胜负转为生态合流的效率之争，巨头出标准与模型，芯片商出算力，在这之后，谁能够把设备装进家庭、让服务跑起来，谁就补足了家庭AI的最后一块拼图。无论终局由出货规模的领先者还是服务收入的破局者书写，2026年都将是这场竞赛真正起跑的一年。 Copyright 2026 亚太商讯. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
  5. AIHong Kong Autumn Electronics Fair and electronicAsia attract over 61,000 buyers for sourcing, business opportunitiesHong Kong, Oct 16, 2026 - The 46th Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and the 29th electronicAsia, jointly organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia concluded successfully today. Over the four-day exhibition period, the two fairs attracted over 61,000 buyers from 141 countries and regions. Buyers from outside Hong Kong came mainly from the Chinese Mainland, India, Japan and the United States, among others, while buyer attendance from Kazakhstan, Brazil and other areas recorded encouraging growth, further reinforcing Hong Kong's role as an international trading hub and an important platform connecting global innovation and technology industries with international markets. The Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia concluded successfully today. The four-day fairs attracted over 61,000 buyers from 141 countries and regions who visited Hong Kong to source products and explore business opportunities This year's Electronics Fair focused on three highlighted themes: AI & Robotics, Smart Wellness and NEXTEntertainment, with related products showcased across various thematic zones. electronicAsia also featured dedicated zones presenting electronic components, display technologies, printed circuit boards, electronic manufacturing services, and testing and measuring equipment, creating a comprehensive one-stop sourcing marketplace for the electronics industry. More than 130 exhibitors participated in the Smart Wellness sector, showcasing a wide range of products and solutions, including digital health devices, smart wearables, personal care technologies, gerontech and consumer electronics for healthy living. The strong participation reflects growing market demand for technology-enabled health management solutions and innovations that enhance quality of life. Silas Chu, HKTDC Associate Executive Director, said: "This year's Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia achieved a fruitful outcome, bringing together exhibitors, buyers, investors and industry players from around the world. The fairs generated strong sourcing momentum and facilitated numerous business deals and partnerships. As the industry continues to transform and upgrade, the role of trade fairs is also evolving, extending beyond traditional product showcases and sourcing activities to become important platforms for fostering innovation, industry exchange and cross-sector collaboration, while reinforcing Hong Kong's strengths as an international trade centre. The newly introduced Future Industries Zone attracted strong interest from technology companies, investors and buyers, while the GoGlobal Connect Zone and its related activities were also well received, reflecting strong demand from Chinese Mainland enterprises seeking to expand overseas and leverage Hong Kong's professional services. This highlights our city's unique role as a bridge connecting industries with global markets." This year's Autumn Electronics Fair introduces the new Future Industries Zone, spotlighting five key themes: Future Computing, Future Manufacturing, Future Marine & Quantum Technologies, Future Microelectronics, and Future Wellness. Pictured is exhibitor Lenovo showcasing a diverse range of innovative technologies and solutions. Mr Chu added: "As Hong Kong's October exhibition season continues, the HKTDC will organise a series of major exhibitions and conferences, including the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo, and Eco Expo Asia later this month. These events will create more cross-industry collaboration opportunities while leveraging Hong Kong's unique advantage in connecting the Chinese Mainland with international markets. They also align with the Hong Kong SAR Government's latest Policy Address and first Five-Year Plan which emphasise accelerating innovation and technology development, promoting AI adoption and strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international trade centre." Survey: over 80% of respondents optimistic about ASEAN and Middle East markets; AI emerges as a key growth driver An independent research agency commissioned by the organisers interviewed over 1,150 buyers and exhibitors during the fairs. The survey found that 96% of respondents expected overall sales to increase or remain stable over the next 12 to 24 months, reflecting cautious optimism about the industry's medium-term market outlook. Respondents were particularly positive about future sales prospects in several areas, with the most promising growth opportunities identified in ASEAN (83%), the Middle East (83%) and Chinese Mainland (81%). The findings suggest that companies are actively diversifying their business footprint and exploring new growth markets. The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to accelerate in the electronics industry, with 74% of surveyed companies already applying or planning to apply generative AI technologies. The main areas of application include product design and development, data analysis and reporting, sales and customer engagement, as well as marketing and content creation. Meanwhile, nearly 60% of respondents identified AI as the technology expected to have the greatest impact on the industry over the next two years. The two fairs featured more than 3,200 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions. The HKTDC organised 130 buying missions involving buyers from 65 countries and regions, including companies such as Samsung Electronics and SSG.com from Korea, Karimex, Stetsom and Mondial from Brazil; Mercado Libre from Argentina; Garni Technology, Varitec Corp and Pan Pacific International from Czechia; Reichelt Elektronik from Germany; Taç Elektronik from Turkey; and Pixel Electric Ltd from Kenya, further reinforcing Hong Kong's role as a platform connecting international markets with innovative supply chains. RoboPark and Future Industries Zone take centre stage RoboPark and the Future Industries Zone were among the major highlights of this year's fairs, showcasing the latest advancements in AI, robotics, and other frontier technologies. This year's fairs featured more than 120 robots, primarily showcased at RoboPark at the Electronics Fair, demonstrating practical applications across four key areas: commercial and service industries, industrial and logistics operations, entertainment and social interaction, and healthcare and rehabilitation. Leading robotics companies from the Chinese Mainland took part, including UBTECH, AgiBot and DEEP Robotics, showcasing the latest achievements in bringing robotics technologies from R&D to commercial deployment and real-world applications. RoboPark expanded further this year and featured five interactive experience and demonstration zones. The photo shows Robot Dance Battle, where robots competed through precise movements and rhythm, demonstrating agility and advanced control capabilitiesBeijing Linkerbot Technology Co., Ltd. showcased the Hong Kong debut of its Linker Hand O30 Fully Direct-Drive Dexterous Hand, featuring sub-millimetre positioning accuracy and millisecond-level response speed, highlighting the potential of advanced robotic hands in humanoid robotics and industrial applications Among the highlights was Booster Robotics, winner of the 2026 RoboCup World Championship, which showcased its championship-winning humanoid robot at the fairs. Yang Liuyang, APAC Sales Director of Booster Robotics, said: "We receive around 100 buyer visits every day from around the world, including Europe, Australia, and South American markets such as Brazil, Chile and Peru. This demonstrates the strong growth potential and commercial demand for humanoid robots in overseas markets. We are actively leveraging Hong Kong as a platform to expand our international business. We expect to appoint one to two distributors in Hong Kong this quarter, accelerating the commercialisation of our technologies and further expanding their applications in overseas markets." The newly launched Future Industries Zone spotlighted five key themes: Future Computing, Future Manufacturing, Future Marine & Quantum Technologies, Future Microelectronics, and Future Wellness. The zone brought together over 100 companies to showcase cutting-edge technologies and solutions. Among them was Hong Kong company Xeroptix Technology Limited, which presented core technologies serving as the "AI brain" for robots, offering integrated solutions spanning algorithms, software, hardware and chip design. Dr Steve Kong, Chief Technology Officer of Xeroptix Technology Limited, said the Future Industries Zone enabled innovation and technology companies to connect more effectively with industry partners while reaching investors, corporate users and international markets. During the exhibition, the company engaged with more than 50 potential clients from markets including Australia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, many of whom expressed strong interest in its embodied AI technologies for robotics. “The exhibition has delivered encouraging results and is expected to generate potential orders worth over US$1 million,” Dr Kong said. Overseas exhibitors also leveraged the Autumn Electronics Fair to explore global business opportunities. First-time exhibitor Clevetura from Cyprus showcased its innovative input device that combines keyboard and touchpad functionalities, aiming to identify distribution partners and expand its international network. Co-founder Mike Krupenkov said: “Hong Kong serves as an important gateway to international markets. Through the fairs, we connected with a number of promising buyers from around the world, and the results have been highly encouraging.” The fairs brought together more than 120 young companies and start-ups, primarily located in the Startup Zone. Among them were numerous Hong Kong start-ups presenting their home-grown innovations to global markets. Hong Kong-based AI-powered news verification app developer Fliq achieved encouraging results in its debut participation. Its CEO and Co-founder Victor Nesteruk said: "Through the fairs, we connected with around 30 potential investors and business partners from markets including the Chinese Mainland, Brazil and Cyprus. We also arranged around 20 business meetings and secured two strategic cooperation opportunities. The fairs provide start-ups with an efficient platform to connect with international markets, and we will definitely participate again." In addition to business matching, the exhibition also helped start-ups explore business and fundraising opportunities through its Investment Matchmaking programme. Korea's Posco Investment attended the fair to explore strategic investment opportunities. The company's typical investment size for each project is around US$750,000. Olivia Park, Venture Capital Manager of Posco Investment, said: "We met with three to five high-potential technology companies and are currently conducting further due diligence and follow-up discussions with one start-up developing smart audio glasses for runners." The fairs featured numerous product debuts, with many companies choosing the platform to unveil their latest technologies and solutions to international buyers. Shenzhen-based VIGX Technology Co., Ltd. showcased the world's first pocket-sized AI-powered exoskeleton robot, overcoming the traditional limitations of bulky and cumbersome industrial exoskeletons. The product attracted strong interest from buyers, with nearly 1,000 visitors recorded during the first two days of the fair alone, including quality buyers from Europe, North America, and South American markets such as Argentina, Brazil and Chile. Wang Han, Overseas Sales Manager of VIGX, said: "The fair provides an ideal platform for us to showcase our latest innovations, accelerating the commercialisation of new technologies and their expansion into overseas markets. If market testing generates positive feedback, it could lead to volume purchases and potential orders worth around RMB1 million." Supporting Chinese Mainland enterprises in going global The HKTDC is one of the core members of the government-led GoGlobal Task Force. This year, the fairs featured the dedicated GoGlobal Connect Zone, offering support on financing, intellectual property, compliance, logistics and risk management to help Chinese Mainland enterprises leverage Hong Kong's international platform and professional services to connect with global markets. The zone received an enthusiastic response, attracting a large number of enquiries and registrations from businesses and professionals interested in expanding their overseas presence. At the same time, many Chinese Mainland technology companies actively used the fair as a springboard for global expansion. The fairs featured the dedicated GoGlobal Connect Zone, bringing together professional service providers to support enterprises with financing, intellectual property, logistics, compliance and risk management, helping Chinese Mainland companies expand into international markets through Hong Kong Among them was Huahon Data Technology, a provider of liquid-cooled AI computing systems and AI solutions, which worked to actively expand its international presence through the fair, successfully connecting with buyers and business partners from Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The company's CEO, Luo Hua, said: "Our global expansion strategy goes beyond selling hardware products. We are committed to building a comprehensive AI ecosystem and providing overseas customers with integrated solutions covering hardware, platforms and applications." The company is actively advancing its international development plans and intends to establish a registered company in Hong Kong within the next one to two months, positioning the city as a key base for its global expansion. The exhibitor added: “The HKTDC not only helped us connect with overseas buyers, but also actively introduced us to banks and financial institutions, supporting our financing activities in Hong Kong and our overseas expansion efforts." Global buyers actively source innovative products The fair attracted buyers from around the world to Hong Kong to source innovative technologies and advanced electronic products, with vibrant business discussions taking place throughout the exhibition. Cizar Abughazaleh, CEO of Dubai-based Action to Action, a company specialising in robot procurement and integration solutions for a wide range of service projects, visited the fair to source robots designed for interactive learning and educational applications. He said: "The fair brings together robots for a wide range of applications in a designated showcase area, enabling buyers to efficiently connect with and compare suppliers. We have purchased a dancing robot and a larger humanoid robot designed for testing and evaluation, helping us explore further collaboration opportunities for future projects." In addition to buyers from the Middle East, the fair attracted buyers from emerging markets such as Africa and South America, who travelled to Hong Kong to source innovative products and technologies. Masibo Levy Wafula, Managing Director of Kenya-based robotics and intelligent systems supplier Pixel Electric, successfully identified manufacturers from the Chinese Mainland at the fair and plans to procure smart metering and automation solutions worth around US$100,000 to support the upgrading of his business. Meanwhile, Fabio Marqui, Foreign Trade Manager of Hayamax, a major electronics wholesaler and distributor in Brazil as well as Toshiba's distributor in the country, said that in addition to finalising a US$200,000 order with an existing business partner during the visit, he had also held discussions with a number of new suppliers from Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and Taiwan, and expects to establish around four new business collaborations. His experience highlights the fair's strong appeal in bringing together global buyers and quality suppliers, while underscoring Hong Kong's unique role as a vital gateway connecting the Chinese Mainland with international markets. Over 100 events and 180+ international experts drive industry exchange More than 100 events were organised during the fairs, including forums, robotics demonstrations and performances. Over 180 industry leaders, experts and business representatives from around the world shared their insights. Among the highlights was a series of well-attended sessions focusing on GoGlobal activities with representatives from Hang Seng Bank, the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation and other financial and professional service organisations examining key considerations for overseas expansion, including financing, risk management and business planning. Meanwhile, speakers from OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) shared the latest developments in ASEAN’s manufacturing ecosystem and corporate expansion strategies, providing practical insights for businesses seeking opportunities in the region. In addition, a wide range of forum sessions explored topics such as AI applications, digital transformation, industrial upgrading and cross-border business opportunities, attracting strong participation from industry professionals and reflecting keen market interest in innovation and emerging business opportunities. The RoboPark also featured exciting robot football matches, robot street dance performances and other live demonstrations, vividly showcasing the latest developments in real-world robotics applications. These activities added energy and a vibrant technology atmosphere to the fair, drawing large crowds of buyers and visitors. The Hong Kong Electronic Forum, co-organised by the HKTDC, MMI Asia Pte Ltd and the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, was themed “Future Tech: Powering Electronics Competitiveness with AI and Sustainable Innovation”. The forum explored innovation and development opportunities for the electronics industry in the AI era, providing valuable insights into emerging trends and future market opportunities.Lillian Cheong, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, together with representatives from government, financial institutions, technology companies and professional services sectors, joined the "Finance Empowered and Go Global Summit" to discuss overseas expansion strategies, cross-border collaboration opportunities and new trends in financial empowermentThe "Future Technology - Future Scenarios - Future Talent" - Youth Scientists & Industry Application Scenario Matching Forum, organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Electronics Industries Association and supported by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR Government and the Hong Kong Young Scientist Association, gathered young researchers, industry representatives and experts to explore technology commercialisation and future industry opportunities. Joining the event with other distinguished guests were Sun Dong (front row, fourth from left), Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government; Sophia Chong (front row, fourth from right), Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; Dr Ge Ming (front row, second from left), Commissioner for Industry (Innovation and Technology) of the Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government; Paul So (front row, third from left), Chairman of the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association; and Clara Chan (front row, third from right), Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation LimitedThe Hall of Fame featured more than 560 renowned brands this year, including first-time exhibitors such as Aoni. The two fairs continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid format, combining physical exhibitions with online business matching. In addition to attending the physical fairs, exhibitors and buyers also had access to the Click2Match smart business matching platform to conduct online meetings and sourcing activities. The online editions of both the Electronics Fair and electronicAsia will remain open until 23 October, extending business matching and collaboration opportunities worldwide. Photo download: https://bit.ly/4hNaRLX Websites - Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition): https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkelectronicsfairae/en - electronicAsia: https://www.hktdc.com/event/electronicasia/en Media enquiries Please contact the HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department: Katy Wong Tel: (852) 2584 4524 Email: [email protected] Clayton Lauw Tel: (852) 2584 4472 Email: [email protected] HKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
  6. Casa Minerals Announces Closing of Second Tranche of Private PlacementVancouver, BC, Oct 16, 2026 - Casa Minerals Inc. (TSXV: CASA) (OTCQB: CASXF) (FSE: 0CM) (the "Company" or "Casa") is pleased to announce the closing of the second tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Offering"). Pursuant to the second tranche, the Company issued an aggregate of 5,800,000 flow-through units ("FT Units") at a price of $0.10 per FT Unit for gross proceeds of $580,000 and 5,552,129 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.07 per Unit for gross proceeds of $388,649, for aggregate gross proceeds of $968,649. Each FT Unit consists of one flow-through common share of the Company (a "Flow-Through Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant is exercisable at a price of $0.15 per common share until October 15, 2028. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Unit Warrant"). Each Unit Warrant is exercisable at a price of $0.15 per common share until October 15, 2028. All Flow-Through Shares, common shares and Warrants comprising the FT Units and Units, respectively, will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, expiring February 16, 2027, during which period any resale or other transfer will be restricted in accordance with applicable securities laws. Net proceeds from the Offering will be used for exploration and development activities on the Company's projects BC, Canada. The Company paid $41,173 in finders fees, which were paid in cash, and issued 361,757 non-transferable finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") as part of the first tranche of the Offering. Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share (a "Finder Share") at an exercise price of $0.15 per Finder Share for a period of two years from the date of issuance of the Finder's Warrant. The completion of the private placement remains subject to approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Following the closing of the second tranche, the Offering remains open and the Company may close additional tranches, subject to receipt of all necessary regulatory and TSXV approvals. None of the securities issued in the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. Contact Information Farshad Shirvani Chief Executive Officer Phone: (604) 678-9587 Email: [email protected] Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the use of proceeds from the Offering, the planned drilling program, future closings of the Offering, receipt of TSXV approval, and the Company's exploration plans. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "target", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management based on the business and markets in which the Company operates, are inherently subject to significant operational, economic, and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies. These include assumptions regarding, among other things: general business and economic conditions; the availability of additional exploration and mineral project financing; and TSXV approval. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include exploration or other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators, including those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable law. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES