Markets

A magnitude 7.9 earthquake off the Kamchatka Peninsula triggered tsunami advisories across Japan’s coasts. The first wave, measuring 0.3 meters, reached Nemuro City, Hokkaido, at 10:17 AM local time. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued warnings for Hokkaido’s Pacific coasts and northeastern prefectures like Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi, also including Fukushima and parts of Chiba. Residents were urged to avoid coastal areas. Potential wave arrival times varied from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

This document outlines the importance of integrating sustainability practices into business operations. It highlights the potential benefits, including improved brand reputation, reduced costs, and enhanced resilience. The document also discusses key areas for implementation, such as resource management, supply chain optimization, and stakeholder engagement, emphasizing the value of a holistic and long-term approach.

Gilmour Space’s inaugural launch of the Eris rocket in Australia failed on July 29th, 14 seconds after liftoff. Despite the explosion, the company considers the test a step towards launch capability, citing successful engine burn and data acquisition. The launch was Australia’s first attempt to design and launch a rocket indigenously, aiming to validate the Eris’s design for future commercial launches. Gilmour Space, founded in 2015, intends to establish Australia in the global space sector with the two-stage, small satellite launch vehicle.

The Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology has introduced HYPIR, a new AI model for image restoration and enhancement. This model rapidly restores images, generating 8K detail in approximately 1.7 seconds. HYPIR distinguishes itself through its ability to produce remarkably accurate image details and preserve text integrity, a common challenge in other restoration models. Potential applications include cultural heritage preservation, film industry revitalization, scientific research, and medical imaging, offering significant advancements over traditional editing software.

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.