TORONTO, February 12, 2026 – In a significant development for corporate governance, two of the world's most influential proxy advisory firms have issued strong recommendations supporting Labrador Gold Corp.'s current leadership. Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS) and Glass Lewis have both advised shareholders to vote exclusively using the BLUE proxy form, aligning with the company's recommendations for its upcoming Annual General and Special Meeting scheduled for February 24, 2026.
Firm Recommendations Against Dissident Campaign
The advisory firms have taken a clear stance against Coloured Ties Capital Inc., the dissident group seeking to gain control of LabGold's board. ISS, in particular, delivered a pointed assessment, stating that the dissident "has not presented a compelling case for any level of change, let alone a majority position." This represents a substantial endorsement of LabGold's existing strategy and leadership team.
Detailed Analysis of Dissident Shortcomings
ISS conducted a thorough review of the arguments presented by both sides and found significant weaknesses in the dissident's campaign. The advisory firm specifically addressed two key criticisms raised by Coloured Ties Capital regarding LabGold's sale of Kingsway and disposition of NFG shares.
"When viewed in context, the timing and rationale behind the sale of Kingsway and the disposition of the NFG shares—both of which have become focal points of the dissident campaign—do not appear unreasonable," ISS noted in its analysis. The firm further explained that the dissident's strongest criticisms "rely on hindsight assumptions regarding metals prices or access to financial resources that do not appear to have been available when the decisions were made."
Concerns About Dissident's Alternative Plan
Beyond criticizing the dissident's retrospective analysis, ISS raised serious questions about the alternative strategy being proposed. The advisory firm highlighted that the dissident's plan to evaluate "unconflicted brownfield opportunities" lacks crucial details that shareholders need for informed decision-making.
"There is limited available information for shareholders about the projects, including: detailed characteristics, timelines, milestones, and anticipated use of funds," ISS reported. This information gap represents a significant concern for shareholders considering whether to support the proposed leadership change.
Corporate Leadership Responds to Endorsement
Roger Moss, President and CEO of LabGold, expressed satisfaction with the proxy advisors' conclusions. "We are pleased that ISS, following an independent review, has affirmed our recommendation that shareholders vote ONLY the BLUE proxy in support of the Board and its long-term strategy," Moss stated. He emphasized the importance of the ISS recommendation, noting that it clearly concluded "the Dissident has not presented a compelling case for change that warrants any support from our shareholders."
Voting Process and Deadlines
Shareholders are being urged to act promptly, with the voting deadline set for February 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Toronto time. LabGold has recommended that shareholders vote "FOR" all of the corporation's resolutions while voting "AGAINST" or "WITHHOLDING" on the dissident's proposals.
The company's board has expressed gratitude for the strong voting support received thus far and continues to encourage shareholders to follow the proxy advisors' recommendations. For assistance with the voting process, shareholders can contact Kingsdale Advisors, LabGold's strategic advisor, at 1-888-518-6813 (toll-free in North America), via email at contactus@kingsdaleadvisors.com, or by visiting www.TheFutureofLAB.com.
Importance of Proxy Advisory Recommendations
ISS and Glass Lewis serve as critical intermediaries in corporate governance matters, with their recommendations carrying substantial weight among institutional investors worldwide. Pension funds, investment firms, mutual funds, asset managers, and other institutional investors regularly rely on these firms' independent analyses when making proxy voting decisions.
The dual endorsement from both leading proxy advisory firms represents a significant advantage for LabGold's current leadership as the shareholder meeting approaches. Their independent review process examines the facts and arguments from all parties involved, providing shareholders with objective guidance during contentious corporate elections.
As the February 24 meeting date approaches, the clear recommendations from ISS and Glass Lewis are expected to influence shareholder voting patterns significantly. The advisory firms' conclusions suggest that maintaining continuity in LabGold's leadership and strategy represents the most prudent course for shareholders seeking to protect and enhance their investments in the company.
