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Category: GlobeNewswire

  • MIL-OSI: TeraWulf Enters Into Long-Term Ground Lease at Lake Mariner Facility to Attract High-Quality Customers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EASTON, Md., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TeraWulf Inc. (Nasdaq: WULF) (“TeraWulf” or the “Company”), a leading owner and operator of vertically integrated, next-generation digital infrastructure powered by predominantly zero-carbon energy, today announced a new, long-term ground lease agreement at Lake Mariner (“New Ground Lease”) that supports the Company’s expansion into high-performance computing (HPC) and AI data centers and positions TeraWulf to attract long-term, high-quality customers.

    The New Ground Lease with Somerset Operating Company, LLC (“Somerset”) replaces the original Lake Mariner lease, which was entered into in May 2021 and had ten years remaining. The New Ground Lease has a term of 35 years, with an option to extend for an additional 45 years, and increases the Lake Mariner land area by nearly 50%, expanding from 107 acres to 157 acres. Importantly, the New Ground Lease includes no escalation in annual lease payments on a per acre basis when compared to the original Lake Mariner lease and also grants TeraWulf exclusive access to infrastructure capacity of up to 750 MW, facilitating the Company’s future growth plans and value creation initiatives.

    The New Ground Lease was negotiated and approved by the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Committee”), which is comprised of three independent directors. The Committee consulted independent legal counsel and the Company’s financial advisor, as Somerset is owned by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Committee received an opinion from the Company’s financial advisor that the consideration to be received by the Company is fair, from a financial point of view, to the Company.

    The consideration paid to Somerset’s parent company in exchange for Somerset’s termination of the original lease and entering into the New Ground Lease is comprised of 20 million shares of TeraWulf’s common stock and $12 million in cash. Under the terms of the New Lease, Somerset’s parent company will be prohibited from selling 15 million shares for 18 months and the remaining 5 million shares for 12 months. The primarily equity-based structure of the consideration further aligns the interests of TeraWulf’s Chief Executive Officer with the long-term financial and operational goals of the Company and its shareholders.

    About TeraWulf

    TeraWulf develops, owns, and operates environmentally sustainable, next-generation data center infrastructure in the United States, specifically designed for Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing. Led by a team of seasoned energy entrepreneurs, the Company owns and operates the Lake Mariner facility situated on the expansive site of a now retired coal plant in Western New York. Currently, TeraWulf generates revenue primarily through Bitcoin mining, leveraging predominantly zero-carbon energy sources, including nuclear and hydroelectric power. Committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles that align with its business objectives, TeraWulf aims to deliver industry-leading economics in mining and data center operations at an industrial scale.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “plan,” “believe,” “goal,” “target,” “aim,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “would” and other similar words and expressions, although the absence of these words or expressions does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and beliefs of TeraWulf’s management and are inherently subject to a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments will be those that have been anticipated. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements based on a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, among others: (1) conditions in the cryptocurrency mining industry, including fluctuation in the market pricing of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and the economics of cryptocurrency mining, including as to variables or factors affecting the cost, efficiency and profitability of cryptocurrency mining; (2) competition among the various providers of cryptocurrency mining services; (3) changes in applicable laws, regulations and/or permits affecting TeraWulf’s operations or the industries in which it operates, including regulation regarding power generation, cryptocurrency usage and/or cryptocurrency mining, and/or regulation regarding safety, health, environmental and other matters, which could require significant expenditures; (4) the ability to implement certain business objectives and to timely and cost-effectively execute integrated projects; (5) failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and/or on acceptable terms with regard to growth strategies or operations; (6) loss of public confidence in bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies and the potential for cryptocurrency market manipulation; (7) adverse geopolitical or economic conditions, including a high inflationary environment; (8) the potential of cybercrime, money-laundering, malware infections and phishing and/or loss and interference as a result of equipment malfunction or break-down, physical disaster, data security breach, computer malfunction or sabotage (and the costs associated with any of the foregoing); (9) the availability, delivery schedule and cost of equipment necessary to maintain and grow the business and operations of TeraWulf, including mining equipment and infrastructure equipment meeting the technical or other specifications required to achieve its growth strategy; (10) employment workforce factors, including the loss of key employees; (11) litigation relating to TeraWulf and/or its business; and (12) other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Potential investors, stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. TeraWulf does not assume any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement after it was made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or regulation. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements and the discussion of risk factors contained in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available at http://www.sec.gov.

    Company Contact:
    Jason Assad
    Director of Corporate Communications
    assad@terawulf.com
    (678) 570-6791

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Top Fastener Distributor Chooses AI-Powered HawkSearch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WOBURN, Mass., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bridgeline Digital, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLIN), a leader in AI-powered search solutions, announces that a leader in fastener distribution has selected HawkSearch to enhance its search experience across 15 countries and 12 languages.

    The fastener distributor will leverage HawkSearch’s Keyword & Concept Search features to improve product discovery. HawkSearch will enhance the leader’s search accuracy, solve synonyms and abbreviation complexities, and improve the searchability of industry jargon. Additionally, it will optimize part number searches, ensure accurate results for terms with varying spacing, support different format variations, and incorporate advanced machine learning and reporting capabilities.

    This partnership reinforces HawkSearch’s position as a leading solution for the B2B sector, demonstrating its commitment to delivering exceptional search experiences.

    “With the complex demands of the fastener industry, our platform is designed to provide a more intuitive and efficient search experience,” said Ari Kahn, CEO of Bridgeline. “HawkSearch will help them meet customer expectations and set a new standard for product discovery in the fastener sector.”

    About Bridgeline Digital

    Bridgeline helps companies grow revenue by increasing traffic, conversion rates, and average order value through AI-powered solutions. To learn more, visit http://www.bridgeline.com.

    Contact:

    Danielle Colvin

    SVP of Marketing

    Bridgeline Digital

    press@bridgeline.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New VelocityDRIVE™ Software Platform and Automotive-Qualified Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Switches for Software-Defined Vehicles

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHANDLER, Ariz., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Driven by the need for higher bandwidth, advanced features, enhanced security and standardization, automotive OEMs are transitioning to Ethernet solutions. Automotive Ethernet provides the necessary infrastructure to support Software-Defined Networking by centralizing control, enabling flexible configurations and real-time data transfer. To provide OEMs with comprehensive Ethernet solutions, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announces its new family of LAN969x Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Switches and VelocityDRIVE™ Software Platform (SP), which is a turnkey Ethernet switch software solution and Configuration Tool (CT) based on standardized YANG models.

    The combination of LAN969x devices and VelocityDRIVE SP, the industry’s first integration of CORECONF YANG, offers an innovative industry-standard network configuration solution. The CORECONF YANG standard aims to empower designers by separating software development from the hardware network layer. This reduces complexity and costs and accelerates the time to market.

    The high-performance LAN969x Ethernet switches are powered by a 1 GHz single-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 CPU and feature multi-gigabit capabilities with scalable bandwidths from 46 Gbps to 102 Gbps. Advanced Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is designed to meet precise timing and reliability requirements of applications like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

    “The introduction of the VelocityDRIVE Software Platform provides our automotive customers with a turnkey software switch solution and configuration tool to easily manage in-vehicle Ethernet networking,” said Charlie Forni, vice president of Microchip’s USB and networking group. “The use of the standards-based YANG configuration protocol enables software to be developed independently and reused across multi-vendor Ethernet switches.”

    The LAN969x switch family is designed to support ASIL B Functional Safety and AEC-Q100 Automotive Qualification standards, offering high reliability and safety for automotive applications. The devices are optimized for systems with a small embedded-memory footprint and feature secure and fast boot capabilities using integrated ECC SRAM for code execution, which eliminates the need for expensive external DDR memory.

    As in-vehicle networking continues to increase, software solutions like VelocityDRIVE SP are necessary for customers to configure and manage their networking systems. The LAN969x switch family joins Microchip’s portfolio of automotive Ethernet solutions, which includes 10 Mbps to 1000 Mbps PHY transceivers, controllers, switches and endpoints. For more information about Microchip’s automotive Ethernet solutions, visit the web page.

    Development Tools

    The LAN969x devices are supported by the LAN9692 VelocityDRIVE Evaluation Board and VelocityDRIVE Configuration Tool (CT).

    Pricing and Availability

    The LAN9691, LAN9692 and LAN9693 are available in production quantities. The VelocityDRIVE Software Platform is available to download. For additional information and to purchase, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor or visit Microchip’s Purchasing and Client Services website, http://www.microchipdirect.com.

    Resources

    High-res images available through Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):
    • Application image: http://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/54036155085/sizes/l

    About Microchip Technology:
    Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control and processing solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve approximately 123,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at http://www.microchip.com.

    Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. VelocityDRIVE is a trademark of Microchip Technology Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Allegro MicroSystems to Announce Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANCHESTER, N.H., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGM) today announced it plans to release financial results for its second quarter fiscal 2025 prior to the market open on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Following the press release, Vineet Nargolwala, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Derek D’Antilio, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the Company’s results and business outlook.

    Analysts and investors are invited to join the conference call using the following information:

    Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2025 Earnings Conference Call
    Date: Thursday, October 31, 2024
    Time: 8:30 a.m. EDT
    Live Webcast Link: Click Here
    Dial-in Participant Registration Link: Click Here

    Advanced registration is required for dial-in participants. Please complete the linked registration form above to receive a dial-in number and dedicated PIN for accessing the conference call. A live and archived audio webcast of the conference call will also be accessible for at least 90 days on the Company’s website at investors.allegromicro.com in the Events & Presentations section.

    About Allegro MicroSystems

    Allegro MicroSystems is a leading global designer, developer, fabless manufacturer and marketer of sensor integrated circuits (“ICs”) and application-specific analog power ICs enabling emerging technologies in the automotive and industrial markets. Allegro’s diverse product portfolio provides efficient and reliable solutions for the electrification of vehicles, automotive ADAS safety features, automation for Industry 4.0 and power saving technologies for data centers and clean energy applications.

    Contact: Jalene Hoover
    VP of IR & Corporate Communications
    Phone: +1 512 751 6526
    jhoover@allegromicro.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NXP Semiconductors Announces Conference Call to Review Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) today announced it will release financial results for the third quarter 2024 after the close of normal trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market on Monday, November 4, 2024. The company will host a conference call with the financial community on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

    Earnings Conference Call Details 
    Interested parties may pre-register for the webcast or obtain a user-specific access code to join the live conference call.

    A replay of the call will be available via webcast for on-demand listening shortly after the completion of the call.

    About NXP Semiconductors 

    NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) is the trusted partner for innovative solutions in the automotive, industrial & IoT, mobile, and communications infrastructure markets. NXP’s “Brighter Together” approach combines leading-edge technology with pioneering people to develop system solutions that make the connected world better, safer, and more secure. The company has operations in more than 30 countries and posted revenue of $13.28 billion in 2023. Find out more at http://www.nxp.com.

    For further information, please contact: 

    NXP-CORP 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Monarch Private Capital Finances Historic Rehabilitation of New York and New Jersey Telephone Exchange Building

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monarch Private Capital (Monarch), a nationally recognized impact investment firm that develops, finances, and manages a diversified portfolio of projects generating both federal and state tax credits, is pleased to announce the tax equity closing for the historic rehabilitation tax credit (HTC) equity for the $59 million redevelopment of the New York and New Jersey Telephone Exchange Building. Located at 601-619 Throop Avenue, at the corner of MacDonough Street, in the Stuyvesant Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, this historic landmark will be transformed into 40 luxury apartments with 1,250 sf of commercial space on the ground and basement levels.

    The project, led by Rivington Company LLC, will restore the Italian Renaissance Revival building, originally designed by Alexander MacKenzie of Eidlitz & MacKenzie in 1905. The redevelopment will preserve the building’s historical significance while offering modern amenities.

    This initiative not only revitalizes a historic landmark but also contributes to the ongoing revival of the Stuyvesant Heights neighborhood. The building’s past includes its role as a telecom hub, facilitating communication for Brooklynites at the turn of the 20th century. Its transformation into luxury apartments marks a new chapter, offering much-needed housing options while preserving its architectural heritage.

    “We are proud to partner with Rivington Company in this impactful project,” said Rick Chukas, Partner, Managing Director of Historic Tax Credits for Monarch Private Capital. “This project, our first rehab in Brooklyn, is a great example of how history can be preserved while meeting modern living needs.”

    “Rivington Company is proud to announce a successful partnership with Monarch to preserve and convert the historic landmark building located in the heart of Stuyvesant Heights into much-needed housing. This collaborative effort not only honors the rich architectural heritage of the neighborhood but also addresses the pressing demand for multifamily housing in this vibrant neighborhood,” said Travis Stabler, Managing Partner at Rivington Company. “Together, we are not only breathing new life into a historic building but also creating homes that will support the diverse needs of our community.”

    For more information on Monarch Private Capital and its impact investment funds, please email Rick Chukas at rchukas@monarchprivate.com.

    About Monarch Private Capital
    Monarch Private Capital manages impact investment funds that positively impact communities by creating clean power, jobs, and homes. The funds provide predictable returns through the generation of federal and state tax credits. The company offers innovative tax credit equity investments for affordable housing, historic rehabilitations, renewable energy, film, and other qualified projects. Monarch Private Capital has long-term relationships with institutional and individual investors, developers, and lenders participating in these federal and state programs. Headquartered in Atlanta, Monarch has offices and professionals located throughout the United States.

    CONTACT

    Jane Rafeedie

    Monarch Private Capital

    jrafeedie@monarchprivate.com

    470-283-8431

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/45f2de0b-4357-4c11-87c6-b1268185f78a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AppFolio, Inc. Announces Date of Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AppFolio, Inc. (NASDAQ: APPF) today announced that it will report its third quarter 2024 financial results after the close of the U.S. financial markets on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

    In conjunction with this announcement, AppFolio will host a conference call on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), to discuss the company’s financial results and business outlook. A live webcast of the call will be available at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/56effhwx. To access the call by phone, please go to the following link: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI0592d6d11ce14a179afe199e2d07039c, and you will be provided with dial in details. A replay of the webcast will also be available for a limited time on AppFolio’s Investor Relations website at https://ir.appfolioinc.com/news-events/events.

    Disclosure Information
    AppFolio uses and intends to continue to use its Investor Relations website as a means of disclosing material nonpublic information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor AppFolio’s Investor Relations website in addition to following AppFolio’s SEC filings, public conference calls, press releases, and webcasts.

    About AppFolio
    AppFolio is a technology leader powering the future of the real estate industry. Our innovative platform and trusted partnership enable our customers to connect communities, increase operational efficiency, and grow their business. For more information about AppFolio, visit appfolio.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Lori Barker
    ir@appfolio.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dayforce Community Unites to Make Work Life Better at Dayforce Discover 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. and TORONTO, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dayforce, Inc. (NYSE: DAY; TSX: DAY), a global human capital management (HCM) leader that makes work life better, will host customers, partners, and industry visionaries for the new Dayforce Discover annual customer conference, to be held on November 11-14 at the Wynn Las Vegas. Registration is open for the in-person experience as well as the live stream of the conference’s mainstage keynotes.

    Centered around the company’s brand promise to make work life better, Dayforce Discover will bring together thousands of attendees around the world to ignite the power of the entire Dayforce community. In-person customers will be able to access more than 110 opportunities and experiences to learn, connect, and discover transformational value through the Dayforce platform.

    “Dayforce Discover is the definitive event for HR leaders passionate about advancing workforce experiences and creating quantitative value within their organizations,” said Eric Glass, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Dayforce, Inc. “The immersive on-site experience will delight attendees, spark inspiration, and foster moments of true community building. HR leaders will leave Dayforce Discover revitalized with tangible learnings – from peers and professionals alike – designed to maximize value with Dayforce.”

    Discover inspiration and innovation with mainstage keynotes

    In the Welcome Keynote, which will include David Ossip, Chair and CEO of Dayforce, in-person attendees will be able to hear from acclaimed research professor and author, Dr. Brené Brown, who presents on courageous leadership and what’s possible when we dare to discover, lead, and unlock our full potential.

    Next up, Joe Korngiebel, Chief Strategy, Product, and Technology Officer of Dayforce, will showcase the latest advancements in AI, Experiences, and Compliance support during the not-to-be-missed Innovation Keynote.

    The final Customer Keynote will conclude with powerful stories from Dayforce customers, including Builders FirstSource, Burton, the Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx, Sevita, and Uniting NSW.ACT, sharing how they make work life better for their people.

    Discover opportunities for hands-on learning, support, and connection

    From viewing demos of the latest product releases to attending workshops full of hands-on guidance, HR leaders can experience the community and learn new ways to optimize Dayforce platform. Opportunities include:

    • Dayforce FIT (Fast-paced Interactive Training) is back again featuring a group of dedicated subject matter Dayforce experts.
    • Hands-on Labs, a series of classroom-style interactive sessions to gain practical, in-depth experience.
    • Ability to receive SHRM, Payroll.org, and HRPA certification credits by attending select sessions.
    • Valuable breakout sessions featuring industry leaders and Dayforce customers, who will dig deep into today’s complex HR challenges based on their own experiences.
    • The Dayforce Disco, a closing party like no other, which unites the Dayforce community in celebration and can’t be missed.

    Discover how to create more value with the robust Dayforce Partner Ecosystem 

    Partners are invaluable to Dayforce. This year’s event has more than 60 partners from around the world, uniting to empower our customers, help them drive unparalleled success in their HCM transformations, and maximize the potential of the Dayforce platform.

    To learn more:

    • Register for the in-person or virtual experience of Dayforce Discover, taking place November 11 to 14, 2024 at the Wynn Las Vegas: http://www.dayforcediscover.com
    • Explore the full Dayforce Discover session catalog
    • Read about the sponsors of Dayforce Discover
    • Read a blog post by Eric Glass, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, on what to expect at Dayforce Discover

    About Dayforce
    Dayforce makes work life better. Everything we do as a global leader in HCM technology is focused on improving work for thousands of customers and millions of employees around the world. Our single, global people platform for HR, payroll, talent, workforce management, and benefits equips Dayforce customers to unlock their full workforce potential and operate with confidence. To learn how Dayforce helps create quantifiable value for organizations of all sizes and industries, visit dayforce.com.  

    Media Contact
    Hyeri Kim
    Hyeri.Kim@dayforce.com
    347-572-9564

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LM Funding America Inc. Expects Operations to be Unaffected by Hurricane Milton; Headquarters Operating Remotely to Support Community Association Lending Businesses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tampa, FL, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LM Funding America Inc. (NASDAQ: LMFA) (“LM Funding” or the “Company”), a cryptocurrency mining and a technology-based specialty finance company, today announced that it expects its Bitcoin mining operations to remain unaffected by Hurricane Milton, thanks to the geographic distribution of its miners. The Company fully anticipates its Bitcoin mining operations will continue without any interruptions or damage.

    Bruce Rodgers, Chairman and CEO of LM Funding, commented, “We’re Tampa based but our miners are not, so we do not expect Hurricane Milton to impact our Bitcoin mining operations.”

    The Company’s Tampa corporate headquarters has transitioned to remote operations to ensure the safety of its employees while maintaining its commitment to serving LM Funding’s community association customers. “We will remain fully operational and continue to accept loan applications from community associations through this challenging time,” Rodgers added.

    LM Funding also expressed its solidarity with local communities likely to be affected by the hurricane, particularly those living in condominiums already feeling the strain of rising insurance costs and the need to fund reserves. The Company’s subsidiaries, LM Funding and Sunshine Lending, are prepared to offer tailored financial products to qualified condominium and homeowner associations that will need to recover following the aftermath of the storm.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the path of Hurricane Milton,” Rodgers said. “We are here to help, and our lending teams are ready to support our customers with the resources they need to rebuild. We are hoping for the best, are prepared for the worst, and focused on what’s next.”

    About LM Funding America, Inc.

    LM Funding America Inc. (Nasdaq: LMFA) is a cryptocurrency mining business that commenced Bitcoin mining operations in September 2022. The Company also operates a technology-based specialty finance company that provides funding to nonprofit community associations (Associations) primarily located in the state of Florida as well as in Washington, Colorado, and Illinois by funding a certain portion of the Associations’ rights to delinquent accounts arising from unpaid Association assessments.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” and “project,” and other similar words and expressions are intended to signify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and conditions but are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Some of these risks and uncertainties are identified in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the SEC, which are available at http://www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the uncertainty created by entering into and operating in the cryptocurrency mining business, volatility in the cryptocurrency markets, the potential need for additional capital, changes in governmental regulations, and other risks. The occurrence of any of these risks and uncertainties could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

    Contact:

    Crescendo Communications LLC
    Tel: (212) 671-1021
    Email: LMFA@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: iBio and AstralBio Provide Update on Myostatin Program for Obesity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iBio, Inc. (NYSEA:IBIO), an AI-driven innovator of precision antibody immunotherapies, today provided an update on the myostatin program for cardiometabolic disease and obesity in collaboration with AstralBio. iBio’s technology stack enabled the Company to rapidly advance the joint myostatin program from inception to in vitro proof-of-concept in human muscle cells. Following early discovery, the companies have identified a molecule with therapeutic potential for treating muscle wasting and obesity, which is designed for subcutaneous administration and has potential for an extended half-life. The companies are currently working on plans to advance this molecule into non-cGMP in vivo studies in rodents and non-human primates (NHP) with potential early readouts of the NHP in early 2025.

    “Myostatin inhibitors hold great promise for treating obesity and cardiometabolic diseases by increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolism,” said Martin Brenner, Ph.D., DVM, iBio’s CEO and Chief Scientific Officer. “However, a best-in-class approach is essential to ensure the next generation of myostatin therapies can effectively address the needs of a large population of obese patients. This means focusing on two critical aspects: high potency and an extended half-life. While our work is still in the early stages, we are optimistic our novel molecule could overcome some of these challenges by offering an alternative to intravenous administration and a treatment paradigm with less frequent dosing.”

    As part of the collaboration, iBio has the exclusive option to license three cardiometabolic targets from AstralBio and will receive the rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize those targets upon exercise. In the event iBio triggers the option to in-license the myostatin program, its goal is to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application by the end of 2025.

    “iBio’s AI-powered platform is an innovative tool for discovering and engineering potential new therapies, and we’re eager to use it in our shared mission to treat cardiometabolic diseases. By focusing on the TGFβ superfamily, including myostatin, we believe we can efficiently advance therapies that address conditions like obesity and muscle wasting,” said Patrick Crutcher, CEO of AstralBio. “By leveraging iBio’s expertise and team, we have built differentiated antibodies incorporating Fc-engineering to enable half-life extended therapeutics that could be potentially best-in-class. We are thrilled with the progress made on this program and look forward to advancing it further.”

    About iBio, Inc.

    iBio is an AI-driven innovator that develops next-generation biopharmaceuticals using computational biology and 3D-modeling of subdominant and conformational epitopes, prospectively enabling the discovery of new antibody treatments for hard-to-target cancers, and other diseases. iBio’s mission is to decrease drug failures, shorten drug development timelines, and open up new frontiers against the most promising targets. For more information, visit http://www.ibioinc.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and include statement regarding the identification of a lead molecule with potential extended half-life and subcutaneous dosing; the identification of a molecule with therapeutic potential for treating muscle wasting and obesity; plans to advance the molecule into non-cGMP in vivo studies in rodents and non-human primates (NHP) with potential early readouts of the NHP in early 2025; myostatin inhibitors holding great promise for treating obesity and cardiometabolic diseases by increasing muscle mass and boosting metabolism; the novel molecule overcoming some challenges by offering an alternative to intravenous administration and a treatment paradigm with less frequent dosing; filing an Investigational New Drug (IND) application by the end of 2025 in the event iBio triggers the option to in-license the myostatin program; iBio’s AI-powered platform discovering and engineering potential new therapies; iBio efficiently advancing therapies that address conditions like obesity and muscle wasting; and the differentiated antibodies built that incorporate Fc-engineering being potentially best-in-class. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the Company’s ability to develop a best-in-class lead molecule with an extended half-life and subcutaneous dosing that treats muscle wasting and obesity; the ability to advance the molecule into non-cGMP in vivo studies in rodents and non-human primates (NHP) with early readouts of the NHP in early 2025; the ability to file an IND by the end of 2025 in the event that iBio triggers the in-licensing option; and the ability of the molecule to overcome some challenges by offering an alternative to intravenous administration and a treatment paradigm with less frequent dosing; and the other factors discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2024. The information in this release is provided only as of the date of this release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    iBio, Inc.
    Investor Relations
    ir@ibioinc.com

    Susan Thomas
    iBio, Inc.
    Media Relations
    susan.thomas@ibioinc.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HCM II Acquisition Corp. Announces the Separate Trading of its Class A Ordinary Shares and Warrants, Commencing October 10, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stamford, CT, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HCM II Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: HONDU) (the “Company”) announced today that, commencing October 10, 2024, holders of the units sold in the Company’s initial public offering may elect to separately trade the Company’s Class A ordinary shares and warrants included in the units. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. The Class A ordinary shares and warrants that are separated will trade on the Nasdaq under the symbols “HOND” and “HONDW,” respectively. Those units not separated will continue to trade on the Nasdaq under the symbol “HONDU.”

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of the Company, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About HCM II Acquisition Corp.

    HCM II Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an initial business combination target in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. Its primary focus, however, will be in completing a business combination with an established business of scale poised for continued growth, led by a highly regarded management team.

    The Company’s management team is led by Shawn Matthews, its Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, and Steven Bischoff, its President and Chief Financial Officer. The Company’s Board of Directors includes Andrew Brenner, Michael J. Connor and Jacob Loveless.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may include, and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company may include, “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Statements regarding possible business combinations and the financing thereof, and related matters, as well as all other statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management team, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company’s management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors detailed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are qualified in their entirety by this paragraph. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Media Contact:

    Steven Bischoff
    sbischoff@hondiuscapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Beamr to be a Bronze Sponsor at the Demuxed 2024 Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Herzliya, Israel, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beamr Imaging Ltd. (NASDAQ: BMR), a leader in video optimization and modernization technology and solutions, today announced that it will participate in and be a bronze sponsor at the Demuxed 2024 conference held in San Francisco from October 16-17, 2024, one of the industry’s main conferences for video leaders and professionals.

    At the conference, the Beamr team will engage with key industry leaders and businesses to promote its comprehensive suite of high-performance, GPU-accelerated video pipelines. These services supercharge companies in the broadcasting and streaming industries by reducing video files and live streams up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (p60). Beamr also offers automated and accelerated cloud services for Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) customers alongside on-prem or private cloud services tailored for enterprises, ensuring compliance with regulatory needs, privacy and security.

    To meet with the Beamr video experts team at the Demuxed 2024 conference and learn how GPU-accelerated video processing impacts video businesses and engineers, please use this link.

    Optimized 4Kp60 live streams are ideal for sports broadcasting, realistic visualization in virtual environments and high-quality video productions, all of which typically require extensive and costly resources. With its patented content-adaptive technology that is accelerated by GPUs, Beamr enables high-performance video processing, while reducing the required resources by up to 50%, delivering noticeably higher-quality contribution feeds with available cloud bandwidth.

    Additionally, Beamr services enable seamless upgrades to advanced video formats, such as AV1 (AOMedia Video 1), and are AI-ready, allowing automatic caption and transcription generation for videos, with plans for more features to be released later this year.

    Participation in Demuxed will follow key meetings with video industry professionals and media businesses executives at Oracle CloudWorld 2024, held in Las Vegas, and IBC 2024, held in Amsterdam, both of which Beamr attended last month.

    About Beamr

    Beamr (Nasdaq: BMR) is a world leader in content-adaptive video optimization and modernization. The company serves top media companies like Netflix and Paramount. Beamr’s inventive perceptual optimization technology (CABR) is backed by 53 patents and won the Emmy® award for Technology and Engineering. The innovative technology reduces video file size by up to 50% while guaranteeing quality.

    Beamr Cloud is a high-performance, GPU-based video optimization and modernization service designed for businesses and video professionals across diverse industries. It is conveniently available to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) customers. Beamr Cloud enables video modernization to advanced formats such as AV1 and HEVC, and is ready for video AI workflows. For more details, please visit http://www.beamr.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this communication may include, among other things, statements about Beamr’s strategic and business plans, technology, relationships, objectives and expectations for its business, the impact of trends on and interest in its business, intellectual property or product and its future results, operations and financial performance and condition. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company, reference is made to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including, but not limited to, the risks detailed in the Company’s annual report filed with the SEC on March 4, 2024 and in subsequent filings with the SEC. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Investor Contact:

    investorrelations@beamr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alliance Witan PLC – Appointment of Directors (AMENDED)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alliance Witan PLC (‘the Company’)
    Legal Entity Identifier: 213800SZZD4E2IOZ9W55

    AMENDMENT TO BIOGRAPHY OF SHAUNA BEVAN CONTAINED IN ORIGINAL ANNOUNCEMENT MADE 10 OCTOBER 2024 AT 12:00. ALL OTHER INFORMATION REMAINS UNCHANGED.

    Appointment of Directors

    Following the completion of the combination of Alliance Trust PLC and Witan Investment Trust PLC (‘Witan’), the Board of Alliance Witan PLC is pleased to announce that Andrew Ross, Rachel Beagles, Shauna Bevan and Jack Perry (all former directors of Witan) have been appointed as non-executive Directors of the Company effective today.

    Andrew Ross has been appointed as Deputy Chair of the Company and a member of the Management Engagement, and Nomination Committees of the Company.

    Rachel Beagles, Shauna Bevan and Jack Perry have all been appointed as members of the Audit and Risk, Management Engagement, and Nomination Committees of the Company.

    Andrew Ross was previously chief executive of Cazenove Capital Management which, in 2013, was acquired by Schroders, where he became global head of Wealth Management until 2019. Prior to this, Andrew was chief executive of HSBC Asset Management (Europe) Limited and managing director of James Capel Investment Management. Andrew has substantial experience in senior leadership roles as CEO and chairman of investment management and wealth management businesses. He has overseen three different multimanager businesses and under his tenure the businesses he led significantly grew and prospered. Andrew is a non-executive director of Polar Capital Holdings plc and of Cadogan Settled Estates.

    Rachel Beagles was previously a managing director and co-head of pan-European banks equity research and sales at Deutsche Bank. Since 2003 she has worked as a non-executive director in the investment company, asset management, charity and social housing sectors. She was chair of the Association of Investment Companies from 2018 to 2021. Rachel has extensive knowledge and understanding of the equity markets from her experience in research and sales and is an experienced non-executive director of investment trusts. She is currently a non-executive director of Mercantile Investment Trust plc.

    Shauna Bevan is Head of Investment Advisory at RiverPeak Wealth Limited where she is responsible for fund selection and portfolio construction. She was previously co-head of Collectives Research at Charles Stanley, having started her career in wealth management at Merrill Lynch. Shauna has over 25 years of investment experience across different asset classes and regions with particular expertise in manager research and meeting the needs of retail investors. Shauna is currently a non-executive director of CT Global Managed Portfolio Trust PLC.

    Jack Perry was previously chief executive of Scottish Enterprise and a former managing partner and Regional Industry Leader of Ernst & Young LLP. Jack has served on the boards of FTSE 250 and other public and private companies. He is currently chair of ICG-Longbow Senior Secured UK Property Debt Investments Limited and was previously chair of European Assets Trust PLC. He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland and has served as a member or chair on numerous audit and risk committees.

    There is no additional information to be disclosed pursuant to Listing Rule 6.4.8 and the Board considers all of the above noted directors to be independent on appointment in accordance with the AIC Code of Corporate Governance.
    A further announcement on directors’ shareholdings in the Company, as a result of the combination will be made shortly.

    For further information please contact:

    Juniper Partners Limited
    Company Secretary
    Telephone: 0131 378 0500

    10 October 2024

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget’s Protection Fund in September Sustained Above Initial $300M Commitment Amidst Market Volatility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released the latest valuation of its Protection Fund for September 2024. The fund, an essential safeguard for the exchange and its users, has remained resilient over the past year, maintaining a valuation comfortably above the initial $300 million commitment. As of the end of September, the fund is valued at approximately $428.5 million, marking one of the highest valuations in recent months.

    Despite fluctuations within the broader financial market, the crypto sector continued to experience growing confidence, particularly with Bitcoin’s solid performance throughout the month. The Bitget Protection Fund, which is denominated in Bitcoin and stablecoins, benefited from Bitcoin’s upward trend, further strengthening its valuation. On September 7, the fund recorded its lowest valuation for the month at $350.5 million when Bitcoin prices dipped to $53,923. However, the fund quickly regained value as Bitcoin prices rebounded, closing the month with a substantial valuation of $428.6 million.

    The Bitget Protection Fund is designed to ensure a robust layer of protection for users in the event of unforeseen market disturbances or security threats. This consistent increase in the fund’s valuation shows Bitget’s commitment to maintaining a stable and secure environment for its global users, aligned with its transparent Proof-of-reserves and industry’s second largest protection fund.
    “The sustained growth in the Protection Fund’s valuation, despite market fluctuations shows Bitget’s focus on maintaining user security and trust. As we continue to see positive momentum in the crypto space, Bitget remains dedicated to offering a stable and reliable platform for our global community, ensuring our users’ interests are well-protected,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.

    With Bitcoin showing promising signs of continued growth, the Protection Fund remains well-positioned to handle market fluctuations. As the cryptocurrency industry moves forward, Bitget remains dedicated to providing a secure trading platform with a focus on long-term user security and risk management.

    To check Protection fund and its previous snapshots, please visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 45 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading, AI bot and other trading solutions. Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more. Bitget inspires individuals to embrace crypto through collaborations with credible partners, including being the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Professional Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM, as well as a global partner of Olympic Athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team).

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices may fluctuate and experience price volatility. Only invest what you can afford to lose. The value of your investment may be impacted and it is possible that you may not achieve your financial goals or be able to recover your principal investment. You should always seek independent financial advice and consider your own financial experience and financial standing. Past performance is not a reliable measure of future performance. Bitget shall not be liable for any losses you may incur. Nothing here shall be construed as financial advice.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/78ebdd73-dbab-4fd3-9b64-6573f00d9613

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19fe0105-2644-4dc4-adea-01f501c7a615

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Rising Dragon Acquisition Corp. Announces Pricing of $50 Million Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHANXI, CHINA, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rising Dragon Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: RDAC) (the “Company”) announced today that it priced its initial public offering of 5,000,000 units at $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market (“NASDAQ”) and trade under the ticker symbol “RDACU” beginning October 11, 2024. Each unit consists of one ordinary share and one right. Each right entitles the holder thereof to receive one-tenth (1/10) of one ordinary share upon the consummation of an initial business combination. No fractional rights will be issued upon separation of the units. As a result, ten rights are needed to receive one ordinary share at the closing of the initial business combination. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the ordinary shares and rights are expected to be listed on NASDAQ under the symbols “RDAC” and “RDACR”, respectively.

    The underwriters have been granted a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 750,000 units offered by the Company to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The offering is expected to close on October 15, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

    Lucid Capital Markets acted as sole book running manager in the offering. Loeb & Loeb LLP is serving as legal counsel to the Company. Blank Rome LLP is serving as legal counsel to Lucid Capital Markets.

    A registration statement relating to these securities was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 10, 2024. The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, copies of which may be obtained by contacting Lucid Capital Markets, 570 Lexington Avenue, 40th Floor, New York, NY 10022. Copies of the registration statement can be accessed through the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    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 these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Rising Dragon Acquisition Corp.

    Rising Dragon Acquisition Corp. is a blank check company incorporated as a Cayman Islands exempted company with limited liability for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The Company’s efforts to identify a prospective target business will not be limited to a particular industry or geographic region.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

    Contact:

    Wenyi Shen
    woody.shen@hywincapital.cn
    Rising Dragon Acquisition Corp.
    No. 604, Yixing Road, Wanbolin District, Taiyuan City,
    Shanxi Province, People’s Republic of China

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The Mahjong Portal for Seniors. SharpMind Games, a gaming company from Christchurch, is announcing the launch of a new gaming portal.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Christchurch gaming industry news

    New Zealand has its own online gaming portal for seniors with this new Mahjong portal designed primarily for elderly players aged 65+. The goal of this project was to create the best Mahjong game tailored to the specific needs of our senior audience, helping them easily interact with the game elements.

    According to the latest studies, Mahjong solitaire and other similar puzzle games, when played regularly, can help prevent neurological conditions associated with cognitive decline and may even enhance cognitive function. For instance, a study published in Frontiers in Neurology by the National Institute of Health demonstrated that playing Mahjong for 12 weeks improved executive function in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (Zhang et al., 2020).

    The senior audience can significantly benefit from playing online puzzle games like Mahjong. However, many seniors find it difficult, or even impossible, to play modern browser games due to various challenges such as vision problems and limited hand or finger mobility. For example, vision problems can make it hard to distinguish game elements on the screen. Or it can be difficult, and sometimes even painful, to click mouse buttons due to limited finger mobility. In response, SharpMind created a web-site to allow the largest number of senior players to enjoy the game comfortably.

    The main factors considered during the development of the new product were the following:

    • Availability of special high-contrast modes for people with vision impairments,
    • Ability to scale elements and customize the interface to personal preferences,
    • Brightness and contrast adjustment options for UI and game board elements,
    • High-quality customer support, recognizing that elderly users may be less familiar with modern technical environments and may need patient, friendly assistance,
    • Additional features such as special tile layouts, relaxing music, and more.

    As a result, TheMahjong.com addresses all these needs, providing senior players with a highly comfortable Mahjong online gaming experience.

    TheMahjong.com is another great game for seniors joining alongside TheJigsawPuzzles.com in its home of New Zealand.

    According to Quantcast, their site TheJigsawPuzzles.com is the most popular entertainment website in the U.S. for people aged 65+, and it ranks among the top five overall websites in the U.S. for a senior audience.

    Contact information: yurilukas@shaprmind.com or call +64 21 157 6470

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at 
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4def66fc-5c87-43eb-aedd-7940440d03d5

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE Announces September Monthly NAV Estimate

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    NBPE Announces September Monthly NAV Estimate

    11 October 2024

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.3bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces its 30 September 2024 monthly NAV estimate.

    NAV Highlights (30 September 2024)

    • NAV per share was $27.37 (£20.40), a total return of (0.3%) in the month
    • Year to date NAV TR of 0.9%
    • $73 million invested in new and follow on investments year to date
    • $391 million of available liquidity at 30 September 2024
    As of 30 September 2024 YTD 1 Year 3 years 5 years 10 years
    NAV TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 0.9% 4.3% (2.8%)
    (1.0%)    		 70.9%
    11.3%    		 172.2%
    10.5%
    MSCI World TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 19.3% 33.0% 30.7%
    9.3%    		 89.1%
    13.6%    		 175.2%
    10.7%
    Share price TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 0.8% 6.4% 14.1%
    4.5%    		 76.0%
    12.0%    		 245.2%
    13.2%
    FTSE All-Share TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 9.9% 13.4% 23.9%
    7.4%    		 32.2%
    5.7%    		 83.6%
    6.3%

    * All NBPE performance figures assume re-investment of dividends on the ex-dividend date and reflect cumulative returns over the relevant time periods shown. Three-year, five-year and ten-year annualised returns are presented for USD NAV, MSCI World (USD), GBP Share Price and FTSE All-Share (GBP) Total Returns.

    Portfolio Update to 30 September 2024

    NAV performance during the month driven by:

    • 0.2% NAV increase ($2 million) from the receipt of private company valuation information
    • 0.2% NAV increase ($3 million) from positive FX movements
    • 0.3% NAV decrease ($4 million) from the value of quoted holdings (which now constitute 6% of portfolio fair value)
    • 0.4% NAV decrease ($5 million) attributable to expense accruals and changes in the Zero Dividend Preference share (ZDP) liability

    Realisations from the portfolio continue in 2024

    • $160 million of realisations received year to date, driven by Action, Cotiviti and previously announced sales of Melissa & Doug, FV Hospital and Safefleet as well as sales of public stock and continued realisations from the legacy income investment portfolio

    $391 million of total liquidity at 30 September 2024

    • $181 million of cash and liquid investments with $210 million of undrawn credit line available

    $73 million invested in 2024 in new and follow-on investments

    • $25 million invested in FDH Aero, a leading parts distributor to the aerospace and defense industry
    • $38 million invested into two U.S. healthcare businesses, Benecon and Zeus
    • $10 million of additional new and follow on investments

    Portfolio Valuation

    The fair value of NBPE’s portfolio as of 30 September 2024 was based on the following information:

    • 6% of the portfolio was valued as of 30 September 2024
      • 6% in public securities
    • 94% of the portfolio was valued as of 30 June 2024
      • 93% in private direct investments
      • 1% in private funds

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations         +44 (0) 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason                              NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com 

    Kaso Legg Communications   +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman                        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    Supplementary Information (as at 30 September 2024)

    Company Name Vintage Lead Sponsor Sector Fair Value ($m) % of FV
    Action 2020 3i Consumer                        68.9 5.4%
    Osaic 2019 Reverence Capital Financial Services                        62.7 4.9%
    Solenis 2021 Platinum Equity Industrials                        58.2 4.6%
    BeyondTrust 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT                        42.0 3.3%
    Branded Cities Network 2017 Shamrock Capital Communications / Media                        40.1 3.2%
    Monroe Engineering 2021 AEA Investors Industrials                        38.3 3.0%
    Business Services Company* 2017 Not Disclosed Business Services                        37.1 2.9%
    True Potential 2022 Cinven Financial Services                        35.8 2.8%
    Kroll 2020 Further Global / Stone Point Financial Services                        31.4 2.5%
    Constellation Automotive 2019 TDR Capital Business Services                        30.9 2.4%
    Marquee Brands 2014 Neuberger Berman Consumer                        30.8 2.4%
    Staples 2017 Sycamore Partners Business Services                        30.7 2.4%
    GFL (NYSE: GFL) 2018 BC Partners Business Services                        30.5 2.4%
    Fortna 2017 THL Industrials                        28.7 2.3%
    Viant 2018 JLL Partners Healthcare                        27.2 2.1%
    Stubhub 2020 Neuberger Berman Consumer                        26.6 2.1%
    Engineering 2020 NB Renaissance / Bain Capital Technology / IT                        25.8 2.0%
    FDH Aero 2024 Audax Group Industrials                        25.3 2.0%
    Agiliti 2019 THL Healthcare                        25.3 2.0%
    Benecon 2024 TA Associates Healthcare                        25.2 2.0%
    Solace Systems 2016 Bridge Growth Partners Technology / IT                        24.4 1.9%
    Addison Group 2021 Trilantic Capital Partners Business Services                        23.8 1.9%
    USI 2017 KKR Financial Services                        23.2 1.8%
    Auctane 2021 Thoma Bravo Technology / IT                        22.5 1.8%
    Excelitas 2022 AEA Investors Industrials                        21.9 1.7%
    Qpark 2017 KKR Transportation                        21.5 1.7%
    AutoStore (OB.AUTO) 2019 THL Industrials                        21.3 1.7%
    Exact 2019 KKR Technology / IT                        20.1 1.6%
    Renaissance Learning 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT                        19.4 1.5%
    Bylight 2017 Sagewind Partners Technology / IT                        18.7 1.5%
    Total Top 30 Investments                            $938.5 73.8%

    *Undisclosed company due to confidentiality provisions.

    Geography % of Portfolio
    North America 76%
    Europe 23%
    Asia / Rest of World 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Industry % of Portfolio
    Tech, Media & Telecom 23%
    Consumer / E-commerce 20%
    Industrials / Industrial Technology 17%
    Financial Services 14%
    Business Services 12%
    Healthcare 9%
    Other 4%
    Energy 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Vintage Year % of Portfolio
    2016 & Earlier 11%
    2017 19%
    2018 16%
    2019 14%
    2020 12%
    2021 16%
    2022 5%
    2023 2%
    2024 5%
    Total Portfolio 100%

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman
    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $481 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. The PRI identified the firm as part of the Leader’s Group, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms for excellence in environmental, social and governance practices. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last ten years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit http://www.nb.com for more information. Data as of June 30, 2024.

    1Based on net asset value.

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security.

    NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

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  • MIL-OSI: Ageas announces exclusive negotiations to strengthen its partnership with UK over 50s specialist Saga

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Ageas announces that it has entered into exclusive negotiations with Saga plc, the UK specialist provider of products and services to people aged over 50, to establish a 20-year partnership with Saga Services Limited (SSL) for the distribution of personal lines Motor and Home insurance products to Saga’s customers. Alongside this, Ageas would also acquire Saga’s Insurance Underwriting business, AICL (Acromas Insurance Company Limited), which together form the Proposed Transaction.

    The Proposed Transaction aligns perfectly with Ageas’s recently unveiled Elevate27 strategy, to capitalise on its robust Non-Life presence across Europe, while accelerating solutions targeted at an ageing population, a rapidly expanding customer segment where the Group and Ageas UK already has real strength and expertise. Furthermore, it presents Ageas with the opportunity to enhance its position as a leading personal lines insurer in the UK, adding scale to a core European market of the Group. By combining Saga’s insights with Ageas UK’s personal lines insurance expertise particularly in this customer segment, the partnership offers a unique competitive advantage in the expanding over 50s market.

    Under the Proposed Transaction, Ageas UK, a subsidiary of Ageas, would enter into a 20-year Affinity Partnership with SSL, Saga’s Insurance Broking business, which distributed in excess of GBP 479 million in Gross Written Premiums (GWP) in the 12-month period ended 31 July 2024 across its motor and home insurance products. The Proposed Transaction represents a total cash payment of GBP 147.5 million, subject to customary completion adjustments, with a potential additional contingent consideration of up to GBP 60 million, subject to meeting agreed policy volumes and profitability targets. Completion of the AICL transaction remains conditional on the signing of definitive transaction documentation and regulatory approvals. As of January 2024, AICL’s Own Funds (Unrestricted Tier1) and Solvency Capital Requirement stand at GBP 83 million and GBP 54 million, respectively.

    Based on the initial consideration and including capital synergies, the estimated impact on the Ageas Group Solvency is – 5%.

    The Proposed Transaction will not affect the Group’s current share buyback programme.

    Background on Saga

    Saga, created over 70 years ago, is a specialist in the provision of products and services for people over 50. The Saga brand is one of the most recognised and trusted in the UK. Saga is known for its high level of customer service and its high-quality, award-winning products and services including cruises and travel, insurance, personal finance and media. (http://www.saga.co.uk)

    Hans De Cuyper, CEO of Ageas said: “We eagerly anticipate further strengthening our partnership with Saga, a well-known brand in the UK. This proposed deal aligns seamlessly with the Ageas Group recently launched Elevate27 strategy, which aims to leverage our strong European presence in Non-Life, add scale to our business, and benefit from material capital diversification. This transaction allows us to grow in a market where we already have real strength and expertise. Ageas has a longstanding tradition of successful partnerships, and we are confident that this collaboration with Saga will open new avenues for creating and accelerating profitable growth.”

    Ant Middle, CEO of Ageas UK said: “This proposed deal with Saga aligns perfectly with our strategy to profitably grow in UK personal lines and in creating powerful partnerships to the benefit of our customers. Deepening our relationship with Saga unlocks even more opportunity to increase our competitiveness in a rapidly expanding over 50s customer segment; an area where we already have real strength and expertise. It also draws on our strengths of technical and operational excellence, and customer care, providing more potential for us to leverage the significant investments made in our business over the last three years and offer our expertise in meeting the unique needs of Saga’s customers.”

    Mike Hazell, CEO of Saga plc said: “We are hugely excited at the opportunity to grow our home and motor Insurance business through this proposed partnership with Ageas. The coming together of Saga’s fantastic brand and Ageas’s unrivalled expertise in operating successful affinity insurance partnerships, would create a winning combination. Our joint reputation for delivering exceptional products and services to people over 50 means this partnership would allow us to serve even more customers with great products at excellent value. Saga is a unique business with a long heritage, great people and loyal customers. We have been clear for some time that developing a partnership approach is the right strategy, providing us with a capital-light route to growth and the ability to reduce debt, leading to the creation of long-term sustainable value for all our stakeholders.”

    Whilst Ageas and Saga are in exclusive negotiations, the Proposed Transaction remains subject to the parties agreeing binding documentation as well as regulatory approvals, and therefore there is currently no certainty that it will occur. A further announcement will be made in due course, as appropriate.

    Proposed terms

    Affinity Partnership

    • The Affinity Partnership would be for a 20-year term, with the ambition to ‘go live’ by the end of 2025.
    • Ageas UK would pay Saga an upfront consideration of GBP 80 million payable at or around the ‘go live’ date.
    • Additionally, Saga may receive contingent consideration of up to GBP 30 million in 2026 and up to GBP 30 million in 2032, subject to certain policy volume and profitability targets being met.
    • SSL would receive commission on the GWP generated over the term of the Affinity Partnership representing the value that SSL will continue to provide through the Partnership.

    Ageas acquisition of AICL

    • Ageas UK would acquire AICL for a total consideration of GBP 67.5 million, subject to customary completion adjustments.
    • Completion of the AICL transaction is targeted in Q2 2025 and is conditional on the signing of definitive transaction documentation and certain regulatory approvals.

    Ageas is a listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning almost 200 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow, and is also engaged in reinsurance activities. As one of Europe’s larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Portugal, Türkiye, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of about 44,000 people and reported annual inflows of more than EUR 17 billion in 2023.

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  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 10 October 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 11 October 2024 at 8:30 am EEST

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 10 October 2024

    On 10 October 2024, Sampo plc (business code 0142213-3, LEI 743700UF3RL386WIDA22) has acquired its own A shares (ISIN code FI4000552500) as follows:                

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks Aggregated daily volume (in number of shares) Daily weighted average price of the purchased shares* Market (MIC Code)
      4,228 40.86 AQEU        
      36,970 40.85 CEUX
      919 40.87 TQEX
      50,217 40.85 XHEL
    TOTAL 92,334 40.85  

    *rounded to two decimals                

    On 17 June 2024, Sampo announced a share buyback programme of up to a maximum of EUR 400 million in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR) and the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052. On 16 September 2024, the Board of Directors of Sampo plc resolved to increase the share buyback programme to EUR 475 million. The programme, which started on 18 June 2024, is based on the authorisation granted by Sampo’s Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2024.

    After the disclosed transactions, the company owns in total 8,408,617 Sampo A shares representing 1.53 per cent of the total number of shares in Sampo plc, taking the issuance of shares on 16 September 2024 into account.

    Details of each transaction are included as an appendix of this announcement.

    On behalf of Sampo plc,
    Morgan Stanley

    For further information, please contact:

    Sami Taipalus
    Head of Investor Relations
    tel. +358 10 516 0030

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki
    Nasdaq Stockholm
    Nasdaq Copenhagen
    London Stock Exchange
    The principal media
    FIN-FSA
    DEN-FSA
    http://www.sampo.com

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  • MIL-OSI: Tryg A/S – Interim report Q3 2024 and Q1-Q3 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tryg’s Supervisory Board has today approved the Q3 and Q1-Q3 2024 interim report.

    Tryg reported an insurance service result of DKK 2,130m (DKK 1,513m) and a combined ratio of 78.2% (83.8%) in Q3 2024. The insurance service result was supported by significantly lower weather and large claims compared to the corresponding period in 2023. The underlying claims ratio for the Group improved by 30 basis points driven by continued profitability initiatives. The underlying claims ratio for the Private segment deteriorated by 20 basis points while it deteriorated 40 basis points in Q2 2024. Tryg reported a top-line growth of 3.9% (4.4%) in Q3 2024. The top-line development was mainly driven by price adjustments across all segments to offset inflationary pressure, whilst there was a continued and expected drop in the Corporate business following higher churn in the first part of the year and in line with Tryg’s re-balancing strategy. Synergies from the RSA Scandinavia acquisition were DKK 58m in the quarter reaching DKK 864m accumulated. The investment result was DKK 444m (DKK 265m) driven by positive returns across all asset classes. Pre-tax profit was DKK 2,134m (DKK 1,225m) and profit after tax was DKK 1,611m. Quarterly dividend of DKK 1.95 (DKK 1.85) per share increased by more than 5%, and a solvency ratio of 202% supportive of future shareholders’ remuneration.

    Financial highlights Q3 2024

    • Insurance revenue growth of 3.9% in local currencies (4.4%)
    • Insurance service result of DKK 2,130m (DKK 1,513m)
    • Combined ratio of 78.2% (83.8%)
    • Expense ratio of 13.3% (13.3%)
    • Investment result of DKK 444m (DKK 265m)
    • Profit before tax of DKK 2,134m (DKK 1,225m)
    • Quarterly ordinary dividend of DKK 1.95 (DKK 1.85) per share and solvency ratio of 202%

    Financial highlights Q1-Q3 2024

    • Insurance revenue growth of 4.2% in local currencies (4.3%)
    • Insurance service result of DKK 5,617m (DKK 4,745m)
    • Combined ratio of 80.5% (82.9%)
    • Expense ratio of 13.5% (13.3%)
    • Investment result of DKK 908m (DKK 485m)
    • Profit before tax of DKK 5,270m (DKK 3,640m)
    • Dividend per share of DKK 5.85 (DKK 5.55) per share

    Customer highlights Q3 2024

    • Customer satisfaction score of 86 (86)

    Statement by Group CEO Johan Kirstein Brammer:
    We have delivered a solid insurance service result in the third quarter, once again highlighting our strength as a full-scale insurance operator in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Today’s results are the last before we present our new strategy, and the numbers underpin our expectation of achieving our financial goals for the strategy period. These goals include an insurance service result of between DKK 7.2 and 7.6 billion and a combined ratio at or below 82% by the end of 2024,” says Johan Kirstein Brammer, CEO of Tryg.

    Conference call
    Tryg hosts a conference call today at 10:00 CET. CEO Johan Kirstein Brammer, CFO Allan Kragh Thaysen, CTO Mikael Kärrsten and Head of IR, SVP Gianandrea Roberti will present the results in brief followed by Q&As.

    The conference call will be held in English. An on-demand version will be available shortly after the conference call has ended.

    Conference call details:
    Danish participants:              +45 78 76 84 90
    UK participants:                    +44 203 769 6819
    US participants:                    +1 646 787 0157
    PIN: 560768

    The interim report material can be downloaded on http://www.tryg.com/downloads-2024 shortly after the time of release.
    Contact information:

    Visit tryg.com for more information. 

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  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Integrates Tonstakers, Enabling TON Staking with a Minimum 3% APY

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, a leading non-custodial Web3 wallet, has integrated Tonstakers, the top staking protocol by Total Value Locked (TVL) in the TON ecosystem. This new feature lets users stake their TON tokens easily, with just a tap on the mobile app. Users can earn additional rewards from the ecosystem, with an annual return estimated between 3% and 5.5%.

    Beyond TON tokens, Bitget Wallet supports a wide range of staking services, including ETH, popular stablecoins such as USDT, USDC, and DAI, as well as Bitget Wallet’s ecosystem token, BWB. Users can also participate in other re-staking assets, utilizing strategies designed to boost yields. These options provide more ways for token holders to grow their returns. With the intuitive “DeFi” tab on the wallet app’s homepage, users can visualize and manage their staking activities in real-time, tracking daily earnings and unstaking whenever they wish. By offering flexible strategies that accommodate different risk profiles, the wallet helps users find the right balance between maximizing safety and earning potential. This streamlined design makes staking easy and increases both liquidity and overall returns for participants.

    As one of the first Web3 wallets to fully support the TON/Telegram ecosystem, Bitget Wallet employs MPC (Multi-Party Computation) technology, which removes the need for private keys. Users can create and manage their wallets through various login options, including Telegram. With this innovative keyless solution for the TON mainnet, Bitget Wallet enables users to securely create TON wallets without the hassle of traditional private keys. Additionally, Bitget Wallet has developed a Telegram trading bot that offers a one-stop service, including multi-chain trading, a zero gas fee experience for TON DApps, and popular project airdrops. It has also introduced OmniConnect, a software development kit (SDK) that enables Telegram mini-apps to effortlessly link to more than 500 blockchains, simplifying interactions like signing and transactions within DApps.

    This deep connection to the TON ecosystem has led to a significant surge in both user growth and wallet activity. In Q3 2024 alone, the number of TON addresses on Bitget Wallet saw a staggering increase of 4886%. According to research, Bitget Wallet is the most popular wallet in the TON ecosystem, with 68% of users favoring this mobile platform over browser-based solutions. Bitget Wallet’s success is also reflected in the project it supports – Tonmarket, a TON ecosystem app, has amassed over 30 million users in less than three months, quickly becoming a dominant player in the sector.

    Bitget Wallet’s collaboration with the TON ecosystem is fueled by a vision of a decentralized future where financial tools are accessible to everyone. As the TON ecosystem evolves, the emphasis will move from basic staking and tap-to-earn models to more advanced applications in finance, gaming, and social interaction, aiming to provide users with lasting, sustainable value beyond short-term incentives. Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet, remarked, “Our integration with Tonstakers is just the beginning. The future growth of the TON ecosystem will stem from innovative applications that foster meaningful engagement. We’re excited to contribute to a future where decentralized finance meets real-world needs.“

    About Bitget Wallet

    Bitget Wallet stands as one of the world’s leading non-custodial Web3 wallets and decentralized ecosystem platform. With the Bitget Onchain Layer, the wallet is well-poised to develop a burgeoning DeFi ecosystem through co-creation and strategic incubation. Aside from a powerful Swap function, Bitget Wallet also offers multi-chain asset management, smart money insights, a native Launchpad, Inscriptions Center, and an Earning Center. Supporting over 100 major blockchains, 500,000+ tokens, and a wide array of DApps, Bitget Wallet is your top wallet for asset discovery and Web3 exploration.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | Discord

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0b1f59be-7ca1-4542-8250-d7d4760d814c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Outlook for earnings per share in 2024 upgraded to DKK 75-80

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    For 2024, Jyske Bank expects a net profit of DKK 5.0bn-5.3bn, corresponding to earnings per share of DKK 75-80. Previously, guidance was for a net profit in the upper half of DKK 4.3bn-5.1bn and earnings per share in the upper half of DKK 64-76.

    Net profit amounted to slightly above DKK 1.4bn in the third quarter and slightly above DKK 4.0bn for Q1-Q3 2024. The upgrade follows favourable financial markets amid declining market rates that led to significant value adjustments in the third quarter. The credit quality remained solid and loan impairment charges amounted to an income in the quarter.

    Jyske Bank’s Interim Financial Report for the first nine months of 2024 is expected to be published on 29 October 2024.

    Yours faithfully, 
    Jyske Bank

    Contact: Birger Krøgh Nielsen, CFO, tel. +45 89 89 64 44

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  • MIL-OSI: Issue of Equity and Total Voting Rights

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OCTOPUS FUTURE GENERATIONS VCT PLC

    Issue of Equity and Total Voting Rights

    Octopus Future Generations VCT plc (the ‘Company’) announces that 780,434 Ordinary Shares of 0.1p each (the ‘Shares’) were issued and allotted on 10 October 2024 (subject to Admission) pursuant to the Company’s offer for subscription (the ‘Offer’) to raise up to £15 million, with an over-allotment facility of up to £5 million, in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 tax years. The Shares were issued at a price of 89.5p in accordance with the terms set out in the Prospectus dated 31 January 2024 that was issued by the Company in connection with the Offer (the price being calculated as the NAV per share of the Company (as at 30 June 2024 and announced on 12 September 2024) of 86.8p divided by 0.97). This is the final allotment under the Offer. 

    Application for the Shares to be admitted to the Official List of the Financial Conduct Authority (‘FCA’) and to trading on the London Stock Exchange’s main market for listed securities will be made and dealings are expected to commence on or around 24 October 2024.

    The issued share capital and total voting rights of the Company are now 53,941,104. This figure may be used by shareholders in the Company as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change in their interest in, the share capital of the Company under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.
    For further information please contact:

    Rachel Peat   
    Octopus Company Secretarial Services Limited
    Tel:  +44 (0)80 0316 2067

    LEI: 213800AL71Z7N2O58N66

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Konsolidator completes private placement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no 16-2024

    Søborg, October 16, 2024

    Konsolidator completes private placement

    In company announcement no. 15-2024, Konsolidator A/S (“Konsolidator”) announced the resolution by the Board of Directors to issue up to 573,979 new shares in a private placement. The new shares have been subscribed for by existing investors.

    Konsolidator announces the completion of the private placement as all 573,979 new shares have been subscribed for and the total subscription amount of DKK 2.2m has been received by Konsolidator.

    The new shares and the related capital increase will be registered at the Danish Business Authority today, following which the company has a registered share capital of nominal DKK 909,388. The share capital will consist of 22,734,700 shares, each with a nominal value of DKK 0.04. Each share carries one vote, corresponding to a total of 22,734,700 votes.

    The new shares represent approximately 2.6% of Konsolidator’s share capital before the capital increase and 2.6% of Konsolidator’s share capital after the capital increase.

    The new shares are expected to be admitted to trading on Nasdaq First North Growth Market Denmark on October 15, 2024 under the ISIN code of Konsolidator’s existing shares, DK0061113511.

    Following registration of the capital increase, the authorization in section 3.1.8 of the articles of association for the Board of Directors to issue shares without pre-emption rights has been reduced to a nominal value of DKK 156,089.68.

    The updated articles of association are available at http://www.konsolidator.com/investor/.

    Contacts

    Certified Adviser

    About Konsolidator
    Konsolidator A/S is a financial consolidation software company whose primary objective is to make Group CFOs around the world better through automated financial consolidation and reporting in the cloud. Created by CFOs and auditors and powered by innovative technology, Konsolidator removes the complexity of financial consolidation and enables the CFO to save time and gain actionable insights based on key performance data to become a vital part of strategic decision-making. Konsolidator was listed at Nasdaq First North Growth Market Denmark in 2019. Ticker Code: KONSOL

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  • MIL-OSI: Unity Bancorp Reports Quarterly Earnings of $10.9 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLINTON, N.J., Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unity Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: UNTY), parent company of Unity Bank, reported net income of $10.9 million, or $1.07 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to net income of $9.5 million, or $0.93 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. This represents a 15.3% increase in net income and a 15.1% increase in net income per diluted share. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, Unity Bancorp reported net income of $29.9 million, or $2.94 per diluted share, compared to net income of $29.9 million, or $2.88 per diluted share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. This represents no change in net income and a 2.1% increase in net income per diluted share, reflecting the Company’s repurchase of outstanding shares.

    James A. Hughes, President and CEO, commented on the financial results: “We are excited to announce the highest quarterly earnings results in the Unity Bancorp Inc.’s history. For the quarter, we achieved $10.9 million of net income, equivalent to $1.07 per diluted share. Our net interest margin expanded to 4.16% and we delivered an impressive ROA of 1.76% and ROE of 15.55%.

    In the third quarter, our organization demonstrated its commitment to granting credit to small and medium-sized businesses operating in our local communities. Gross loans grew $46.9 million, or 2.2%, and commercial loans grew $50.6 million, or 3.8%, sequentially.

    We have also benefited from continued deposit momentum, with customer deposits growing $42.6 million, or 2.4% sequentially. Deposits will continue to be the fuel that enables our credit growth. We look forward to continuing to support our communities by growing loans and deposits in tandem.

    In September, the Federal Reserve cut short-term interest rates 50 basis points, signaling a change to the operating environment. At Unity, we are able to maintain strong profitability metrics in all interest rate scenarios. We will continue to manage our interest rate sensitivity, maintain a conservative capital position and ensure ample liquidity levels. Our asset quality ratios remain favorable and we closely monitor and manage our nonperforming and past-due credit relationships.

    Lastly, our strong financial results are a reflection of our talented employee base. Their hard work and dedication to our company significantly support the local economies of the communities we serve.”

    For the full version of the Company’s quarterly earnings release, including financial tables, please visit News – Unity Bank (q4ir.com).

    Unity Bancorp, Inc. is a financial services organization headquartered in Clinton, New Jersey, with approximately $2.6 billion in assets and $2.0 billion in deposits. Unity Bank, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, provides financial services to retail, corporate and small business customers through its robust branch network located in Bergen, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Morris, Ocean, Somerset, Union and Warren Counties in New Jersey and Northampton County in Pennsylvania. For additional information about Unity, visit our website at http://www.unitybank.com, or call 800-618-BANK.

    This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, either expressed or implied, which are provided to assist the reader in understanding anticipated future financial performance. These statements may be identified by use of the words “believe”, “expect”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project” or similar expressions. These statements involve certain risks, uncertainties, estimates and assumptions made by management, which are subject to factors beyond the Company’s control and could impede its ability to achieve these goals. These factors include those items included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading “Item IA-Risk Factors” as amended or supplemented by our subsequent filings with the SEC, as well as general economic conditions, trends in interest rates, the ability of our borrowers to repay their loans, our ability to manage and reduce the level of our nonperforming assets, results of regulatory exams, and the impact of any health crisis or national disasters on the Bank, its employees and customers, among other factors.

    This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction.

    News Media & Financial Analyst Contact:
    George Boyan, EVP and CFO
    (908) 713-4565

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat Ships Teal-2 Drones to Florida Army National Guard to Assist with Hurricane Milton Disaster Response

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, today announced it is fulfilling an order by the Florida Army National Guard for its Teal 2 drones. The drones will be used to support the ongoing disaster response to Hurricane Milton, which has left more than 3 million people without power.

    “Our drones are specifically designed for the defense industry, but we understand that our warfighters’ roles extend beyond combat, especially during natural disasters,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “Small, portable drones like our Teal 2, built for the toughest environments, can be invaluable for first responders in damage assessment and search and rescue missions. We are proud to support the Florida Army National Guard soldiers in their efforts to assist with the aftermath in Milton.”

    Red Cat subsidiary Teal Drones builds its Teal 2 system, designed to support U.S. and allied military operations, public safety organizations, and government agencies, at its Utah facility. Teal 2 is a cost-effective, man-portable sUAS designed to “Dominate the Night™” that has best-in-class night vision, multi-vehicle control support, and a fully modular design. It is both Blue UAS Certified and FAA Remote ID approved.

    About Red Cat, Inc.
    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a bleeding-edge Family of ISR and Precision Strike Systems including the Teal 2, a small unmanned system offering the highest-resolution thermal imaging in its class, the Edge 130 Blue Tricopter for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at http://www.redcat.red.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 8, 2024. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EBC Financial Group Enhances Liquidity and Lowers Trading Costs on Major Stock Indices

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Amidst a global stock market resurgence, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is enhancing liquidity for five major stock indices, including the U.S. Dow Jones, Nasdaq, S&P 500, the A50 (China), and the Hang Seng Index (Hong Kong). This strategic move aims to provide investors with more optimised, efficient trading across all global sessions by reducing trading costs and offering greater access. The global stock market is going through big changes, with lots of money flowing in and companies going public again (IPO boom). This is making stock markets around the world rise.

    As market valuations rise and capital flows increase globally, these enhancements position investors to capitalise on key opportunities emerging in this pivotal moment for financial markets. EBC, a global financial broker, is here to help investors make the most of these opportunities. They do this by using advanced technology to offer low-cost, high-quality access to markets where big financial players (banks, institutions) operate. In short, EBC helps investors get better deals and access to big markets at low costs.

    Liquidity Strengthens Major Indices Amid Global Recovery
    The ongoing recalibration of global stock markets is driven by several interconnected factors: fresh capital entering the system, a resurgence in IPO activity, and a series of market corrections that are realigning valuations. Emerging markets, once considered high-risk due to volatility, are now benefiting from new regulatory changes that boost investor returns, particularly in dividend payouts.

    David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd, offered an early prediction in June that undervalued markets were set to rebound. “Value reversion is a powerful force,” Barrett said at the time, emphasising that markets under pressure were now ripe for capital returns. He also noted that emerging markets, bolstered by new dividend regulations, are enhancing their attractiveness to global investors.

    The past months have borne out these predictions. Since the start of 2024:

    • All three major U.S. stock indices (Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500) have hit new all-time highs since the start of 2024, driven by fresh investment and increased investor confidence.
    • Asian markets, particularly in China and Hong Kong, are experiencing their most significant gains in a decade, marking them as central to global growth.

    Why EBC’s Liquidity Enhancement Matters
    EBC’s liquidity enhancement couldn’t have come at a better time. As the world’s investors hunt for undervalued assets, EBC has strengthened its ability to offer the lowest trading costs for five major stock indices, giving traders a unique edge in the market.

    • Tighter spreads:
      1. Dow Jones Index (U30USD): Spread reduced to 1.00, reflecting a reduction of up to 70%.
      2. S&P 500 Index (SPXUSD): Spread reduced to 0.31, with reductions reaching 64%.
      3. Nasdaq Index (NASUSD): Spread reduced to 0.70, with reductions as high as 85%, the most significant improvement.
      4. Hang Seng Index (HSIHKD): Spread reduced to 6.50, achieving a reduction of up to 55%.
      5. China A50 Index (CNIUSD): Spread reduced to 6.00, marking a reduction of 14%.
    • Wider access: Whether you’re trading in the Asian, European, or U.S. markets, EBC ensures that you’ll benefit from these cost-saving improvements, no matter the time zone.

    EBC’s role in implementing these reductions positions them among institutions actively working to streamline market access for a diverse range of investors.

    The Role of IPOs and Global Capital Flows
    Global capital is not simply flowing into traditional assets. A fresh wave of initial public offerings (IPOs) is reshaping the investment landscape, offering new opportunities for growth in sectors ranging from fintech to renewable energy. These IPOs, while centred in key regions, are attracting worldwide attention, pulling in capital from investors eager to capitalise on new and emerging trends.

    “The market’s expectation for interest rate cuts has shifted the landscape,” Barrett said, adding that the rise of fintech IPOs, in particular, shows no signs of slowing down. As the global economy shifts into a new phase of monetary policy—with central banks signaling lower interest rates—investors are now betting on sustained growth in these innovative sectors.

    With this, liquidity enhancements in major indices such as the Nasdaq and the Hang Seng are not simply reactive measures—they are strategic moves by institutions like EBC to prepare for the next wave of market activity. As more capital moves across borders, liquidity becomes essential for efficient, low-cost trading. The reduced spreads and enhanced market access make these indices more attractive to institutional and individual investors alike.

    These developments come at a time when emerging markets are increasingly seen as key pillars of global growth, particularly as advanced economies grapple with inflationary pressures and slow economic recovery. The influx of liquidity into major indices reflects a broader confidence in global market resilience and the promise of continued returns in the months ahead.

    Investors’ Next Steps: Navigating the Shift
    As global capital searches for growth, liquidity becomes more than a technical feature—it’s a vital asset in a world where time and access to markets matter. This period of heightened activity may well define the next phase of global finance, one in which agility, market awareness, and access to liquidity will determine winners and losers.

    EBC Financial Group’s liquidity enhancements across major indices align with broader market trends and provide investors with the tools they need to navigate these changes efficiently. By lowering costs and ensuring stability in key markets, EBC is laying the groundwork for investors to capture opportunities in the global markets of tomorrow.

    Investors, particularly those focused on long-term wealth appreciation, would do well to remain vigilant. The liquidity enhancements we are seeing today are laying the foundation for future market opportunities. Those who understand these shifts and act accordingly will find themselves well-positioned in a rapidly evolving global financial landscape.

    About EBC Financial Group
    Founded in the esteemed financial district of London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is renowned for its comprehensive suite of services that includes financial brokerage, asset management, and comprehensive investment solutions. EBC has quickly established its position as a global brokerage firm, with an extensive presence in key financial hubs such as London, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, Sydney, the Cayman Islands, and across emerging markets in Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and India. EBC caters to a diverse clientele of retail, professional, and institutional investors worldwide.

    Recognised by multiple awards, EBC prides itself on adhering to the leading levels of ethical standards and international regulation. EBC Financial Group’s subsidiaries are regulated and licensed in their local jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia’s Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

    At the core of EBC Group are seasoned professionals with over 30 years of profound experience in major financial institutions, having adeptly navigated through significant economic cycles from the Plaza Accord to the 2015 Swiss franc crisis. EBC champions a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor engagement is treated with the utmost seriousness it deserves.

    EBC is the Official Foreign Exchange Partner of FC Barcelona, offering specialised services in regions such as Asia, LATAM, the Middle East, Africa, and Oceania. EBC is also a partner of United to Beat Malaria, a campaign of the United Nations Foundation, aiming to improve global health outcomes. Starting February 2024, EBC supports the ‘What Economists Really Do’ public engagement series by Oxford University’s Department of Economics, demystifying economics, and its application to major societal challenges to enhance public understanding and dialogue.

    https://www.ebc.com/

    Media Contact:
    Chyna Elvina
    Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
    chyna.elvina@ebc.com

    Savitha Ravindran
    Global Public Relations Manager (APAC, LATAM)
    savitha.ravindran@ebc.com

    Douglas Chew
    Global Public Relations Lead
    douglas.chew@ebc.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/54d1f25c-3548-44f0-8ca1-9e4efa4190f3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions of Innofactor Plc’s Extraordinary General Meeting and the organizing meeting of the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Innofactor Plc Stock Exchange Release October 11, 2024, at 13:00 Finnish time

    Removing the transfer restrictions on the remuneration shares of the members of the Board of Directors

    In previous Annual General Meetings, Innofactor has approved decisions regarding the remuneration of the Board of Directors. It has been decided that Innofactor requires Board Members to hold the shares they receive as annual compensation for the duration of their Board Membership. This means that there is a restriction on the transfer of these shares during their tenure.

    According to the proposal presented in the meeting invitation, the General Meeting decided to remove all transfer restrictions on all shares received as compensation by the Board Members elected at Innofactor Plc’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024, prior to the date of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    Board of Directors’ remuneration

    The General Meeting decided that the remuneration for the Chairman of the Board and Board Members will remain unchanged, in accordance with the decision made at Innofactor’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024. However, for the Board Members elected at the Extraordinary General Meeting, the remuneration will be paid entirely in cash, proportionate to the length of their term, taking into account any remuneration already paid to the continuing Board Members. Therefore, the General Meeting decided to pay the Chairman of the Board 5,000 euros per month and Board Members 2,500 euros per month for the duration of their term, with the monthly cash remuneration for continuing Board Members reduced by 50 percent if they have already received a share-based remuneration. No separate meeting fees will be paid.

    Additionally, the General Meeting decided that the remuneration already paid to the Board Members in accordance with the decision made at Innofactor’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024, will be paid in full, and no repayment of the already paid remuneration will be required based on the length of their term.

    The General Meeting decided that for those Board Members who were not re-elected and whose term ended at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting, the monthly cash remuneration, as determined by the decision of the Annual General Meeting, will be paid until the date of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    Composition of the Board of Directors

    The General Meeting decided that the Board of Directors shall have four members. Mr. Sami Ensio and Mr. Risto Linturi were re-elected as members to the Board of Directors, and Mr. Antti Kummu and Mr. Timo Larjomaa were elected as new members of the Board of Directors for a term that begins at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting and ends at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting. The term of those Innofactor Board Members who were not re-elected ended at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    At the organizing meeting held after the Extraordinary General Meeting, Mr. Antti Kummu was elected as Chairman of the Board.

    The Board elected Mr. Antti Kummu as the chairman of the remuneration committee and Mr. Timo Larjomaa and Mr. Risto Linturi as its members.

    The minutes of the Extraordinary General Meeting will be available on Innofactor Plc’s web site at https://www.innofactor.com/invest-in-us/general-meeting/ as of October 25, 2024, at the latest.

    Espoo, October 11, 2024

    INNOFACTOR PLC

    Board of Directors

    Additional information:
    Sami Ensio, CEO
    Innofactor Plc
    Tel. +358 50 584 2029
    sami.ensio@innofactor.com

    Distribution:
    NASDAQ Helsinki
    Main media
    http://www.innofactor.com

    Innofactor
    Innofactor is the leading driver of the modern digital organization in the Nordic Countries for its about 1,000 customers in commercial and public sector. Innofactor has the widest solution offering and leading know-how in the Microsoft ecosystem in the Nordics. Innofactor has about 600 enthusiastic and motivated top specialists in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The Innofactor Plc share is listed in the technology section of the main list of NASDAQ Helsinki Oy. http://www.innofactor.com #ModernDigitalOrganization #PeopleFirst #CreatingSmiles #BeTheRealYou

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Equifax Canada Appoints Ramon Yarde as Chief Data Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Equifax Canada has announced the appointment of Ramon Yarde as Chief Data Officer (CDO) as part of Equifax Canada’s commitment to market-leading data, analytics and unparalleled insights for Canadian consumers and businesses.

    Yarde has served as interim CDO since February 2024. A trusted leader at Equifax Canada since 2006, he has held several leadership roles during his tenure, including oversight of the Project Management Office, and the Data Engineering and Data Operations teams.

    Equifax Canada has underscored its commitment to driving further financial inclusion by including non-traditional data like rental payment information in credit scores as an important step to ensuring credit and mainstream financial services are more accessible for qualifying Canadians. As Chief Data Officer, Yarde will lead critical work to expand the depth and predictiveness of the company’s insights, working to help increase access to credit and financial inclusion for more Canadians.

    “Equifax differentiated data helps customers make critical decisions, and Ramon’s deep understanding of our business, as well as our data assets and the opportunities they can unlock, make him the ideal fit to lead our CDO team,” said Sue Hutchison, President and CEO of Equifax Canada. “Ramon has been instrumental in advancing our data strategy, as well as the exploration of new data sets and capabilities that can help our customers and consumers.”

    “It’s critical that we continuously expand the breadth, depth and predictiveness of our data, with a commitment to best-in-class security and responsible governance,” explained Yarde. “Unique Equifax data enables innovation, maximizes our AI performance, and helps customers innovate faster. And, it helps create more effective insights into the people, businesses and communities we serve, to enable, empower, and unlock new opportunities in this space.”

    This appointment reflects the Equifax commitment to data excellence and its focus on leveraging data-driven innovation to help Canadians. “I know that with Ramon leading these efforts, Equifax will continue to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to our clients and Canadian consumers,” concluded Hutchison.

    About Equifax
    At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by nearly 15,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit Equifax.ca.

    Contact:

    Andrew Findlater
    SELECT Public Relations
    afindlater@selectpr.ca
    (647) 444-1197

    Angie Andich
    Equifax Canada Media Relations
    MediaRelationsCanada@equifax.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras PROTAC Therapy For Lung Cancer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi, Oct. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras PROTAC Therapy Clinical Trials Insight & Market Opportunity Report Highlights:

    • First PROTAC Drug Approval Expected By 2027
    • Insight On More Than 50 PROTAC Drugs In Clinical Trials
    • Global PROTAC Drugs Clinical Trials Insight By Company, Country, Indication & Phase
    • Orphan & Fast Track Designation Insight
    • PROTAC Drugs Clinical Application & Development Outlook By Indication
    • Current & Future Market Overview
    • Global PROTAC Drug Market Dynamics

    Download Report: https://www.kuickresearch.com/ccformF.php?t=1728551968

    Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year. Despite advances in treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, a significant number of lung cancers develop resistance to these interventions, making them difficult to treat. The emergence of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) offers new hope in the fight against lung cancer by introducing a novel approach to degrade cancer-driving proteins that were previously considered undruggable.

    PROTACs represent a groundbreaking innovation in targeted therapy. Unlike traditional therapies that focus on inhibiting the activity of harmful proteins, PROTACs work by inducing the degradation of these proteins altogether. They leverage the cell’s natural ubiquitin-proteasome system, which is responsible for breaking down unwanted or damaged proteins. By recruiting an E3 ubiquitin ligase to the target protein, PROTACs tag the protein for destruction, allowing it to be efficiently removed from the cell. This innovative mechanism can address proteins that are difficult to target with conventional drugs, such as transcription factors and scaffold proteins that lack easily accessible binding sites for inhibitors.

    In the context of lung cancer, PROTACs are being investigated as a new therapeutic option for targeting proteins involved in the disease’s progression and resistance to treatment. One of the key drivers of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a protein that regulates cell proliferation and survival. EGFR-targeting therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have been used to treat NSCLC patients whose tumors harbor EGFR mutations. However, over time, many patients develop resistance to these inhibitors, often due to secondary mutations in the EGFR gene or other mechanisms that enable cancer cells to evade drug action. PROTACs offer an alternative approach by degrading the EGFR protein itself, potentially overcoming the resistance that develops with conventional therapies.

    One of the promising areas of research is the development of PROTACs specifically designed to degrade mutant forms of EGFR that are resistant to current treatments. These PROTACs can target both the wild-type and mutant forms of the receptor, providing a more comprehensive approach to inhibiting EGFR-driven cancer growth. Haisco Pharmaceutical has an EGFR-targeting PROTAC named HSK40118 currently in phase 1 clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer. By degrading the entire protein rather than just inhibiting its activity, PROTACs reduce the likelihood of resistance developing, potentially leading to more durable responses in lung cancer patients.

    In addition to EGFR, other proteins implicated in lung cancer are also being targeted by PROTACs. One such protein is KRAS, a well-known oncogene that drives cancer growth in a subset of lung cancer patients. Mutations in the KRAS gene are often associated with poor prognosis and resistance to targeted therapies. While direct inhibition of KRAS has proven challenging, PROTACs offer a new strategy to target this oncogene by promoting its degradation. Arvinas has an active preclinical program underway that aims to identify KRAS-targeted PROTACs for lung cancer, offering a new therapeutic option for patients with KRAS-driven lung cancer.

    Furthermore, PROTACs can be used to target proteins involved in the tumor microenvironment, which plays a critical role in immune evasion and cancer progression. Lung tumors often develop mechanisms to suppress immune responses, making them less responsive to immunotherapies. PROTACs could potentially degrade immunosuppressive proteins, enhancing the effectiveness of existing immunotherapies and allowing the immune system to mount a more robust attack on tumor cells.

    Despite the promise of PROTACs in lung cancer therapy, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. One of the primary challenges is ensuring the selective degradation of target proteins without affecting normal cellular processes. Off-target degradation could lead to toxicity or unwanted side effects, making it essential to design highly selective PROTACs. Additionally, optimizing the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of PROTACs will be critical to ensure they achieve effective and sustained protein degradation in patients.

    Several pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are currently exploring the use of PROTACs in lung cancer treatment. Early preclinical studies have shown promising results, and as this research progresses, it is expected that more PROTAC-based therapies will enter clinical trials for lung cancer. These therapies could provide a much-needed option for patients with advanced or drug-resistant lung cancer, offering a new mechanism of action that complements existing treatment modalities.

    In conclusion, PROTAC therapy represents a new frontier in lung cancer treatment, offering the potential to degrade disease-driving proteins that are resistant to conventional therapies. By targeting proteins like EGFR, KRAS, and those involved in the tumor microenvironment, PROTACs could revolutionize the way lung cancer is treated. As research continues to evolve, PROTACs hold the promise of improving outcomes for patients with this challenging and deadly disease.

    The MIL Network –