Markets

Apple is launching the “Apple Manufacturing Academy” in Detroit on August 19th, partnering with Michigan State University to offer free “smart manufacturing” training to U.S. small and medium-sized businesses. This initiative, part of Apple’s $500 billion U.S. investment, aims to boost domestic innovation and competitiveness by covering areas like machine learning, automation, and data-driven optimization. Companies nationwide can apply, with online consulting also available. Apple plans further training in project management and process optimization.

Legend Power Systems (LPSIF) received TSX Venture Exchange approval to extend the expiry date of 12,861,553 common share purchase warrants, originally issued in July and August 2023, from 2025 to July 31, 2026, and August 22, 2026, respectively. The exercise price remains at $0.25. Legend Power provides solutions like SmartGATE to enhance building energy efficiency, reduce costs and emissions, and improve asset management. The warrant extension gives holders more time to exercise their rights, but potential future dilution exists.

Lifeway Foods (LWAY) received a boost as ISS recommended shareholders “DO NOT VOTE” on the consent solicitation by dissident shareholders Ludmila and Edward Smolyansky. ISS cited Lifeway’s positive financial performance and share price rally, finding the dissidents’ arguments lacking context and a clear plan. CEO Julie Smolyansky welcomed the recommendation, stating the solicitation is “unwarranted, disruptive and not in the best interest of Lifeway shareholders.” Lifeway urges shareholders to follow ISS’s advice and take no action.

Polaris Off Road introduces the 2026 RANGER 500, a value-driven mid-size utility side-by-side. Starting at $9,999, the RANGER 500 delivers Polaris’ renowned reliability in a nimble and practical design. Key features include intuitive controls, versatile utility with a 300-pound capacity dump box and 1,500-pound towing capacity, and a durable build. Available accessories further enhance customization. Shipping to dealers begins in early August.

Viva Gold Corp’s Tonopah Gold Project in Nevada exhibits strong economic potential, according to a recent PEA. The project boasts a $112 million NPV, a 17.6% IRR, and a 3.6-year payback, based on a $2,400 gold price. An innovative dual processing approach, utilizing both milling and heap leach, aims to maximize gold recovery. Viva Gold’s CEO suggests the current stock valuation presents a discounted investment opportunity. The project details and evaluation were discussed on CEO.CA’s ‘Inside the Boardroom’ series.

Lucid Group, an innovative EV maker, has appointed actor Timothée Chalamet as its first Global Brand Ambassador in a multi-year partnership. This marks a significant step for Lucid, reinforcing its commitment to ‘Compromise Nothing’ and pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. The collaboration aims to further elevate Lucid’s brand awareness and appeal to a wider audience.

F.N.B. Corporation has promoted Brian Mancos to Director of Human Resources and Corporate Services at First National Bank, its largest subsidiary. Mancos, previously Senior Corporate Counsel, succeeds the retiring Charles Casalnova. He will oversee HR strategies, facilities management, and business continuity planning, reporting directly to CEO Vincent J. Delie, Jr. This appointment reflects FNB’s commitment to internal talent development and succession planning, leveraging Mancos’s deep understanding of the company and his extensive experience in HR and real estate matters.

BYD has entered the Fortune Global 500 list for 2025, ranking 91st. This is the fourth consecutive year BYD has climbed the prestigious ranking, signifying the electric vehicle and battery manufacturer’s continued growth and success on a global scale.

As torrential rains caused severe flooding near Beijing, JD.com activated its emergency response, dispatching relief supplies to Miyun by 8 PM. The initial shipment included food, rescue equipment, and medical supplies donated via JD Health and philanthropic brands. JD.com is leveraging its logistics network to expedite supply movement and deploying personnel to assist relief efforts. JD Logistics couriers are aiding cleanup, ensuring last-mile delivery. The response is guided by a policy allowing rapid, decentralized action during national disasters.

Omai Gold Mines reported promising drill results from its 2025 resource expansion program at the Wenot deposit in Guyana. Highlights include 17.36 g/t Au over 7.5 meters, 2.64 g/t Au over 41.8 meters, and 3.49 g/t Au over 17.4 meters. The company has exceeded its initial drilling target, completing 20,500 meters across 37 holes. Drilling continues to extend gold mineralization, with results pending for 8 more holes. An updated Mineral Resource Estimate and Preliminary Economic Assessment are expected soon.