NewzIntel.com

Category: GlobeNewswire

  • MIL-OSI: Baffle Announces New Data Security Capabilities on Amazon S3

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baffle, the easiest way to protect sensitive data, today announced new data security capabilities for Amazon Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3). As organizations continue to experience unintentional disclosure of data through data stored and shared through S3 buckets, the new offering from Baffle provides customers with easy, comprehensive, and safe technical control to ensure that data is protected at rest, in use, and in motion as it is ingested, stored and processed in generative AI pipelines.

    Amazon S3 is an object storage service from Amazon Web Services (AWS) offering industry-leading scalability, data availability, and security performance and is built to store and retrieve any amount of data from anywhere. S3 is the first step in the journey of sensitive data as it is ingested into Generative AI pipelines. Baffle’s data security capabilities for Amazon S3 require no-code changes, easily protecting data stored in any S3 bucket with masking, tokenization, and encryption at the object or field level. The data is protected before it is inserted into S3, and stays protected when processed, hence achieving a “fail-safe” posture with the data remaining protected even if there is a misconfiguration or a human error.

    “The amount of data organizations store in S3 has continued to grow exponentially year over year driven by the tremendous growth of Generative AI pipelines being built in the cloud and yet, those storing data in S3 have done so without a fail-safe against human error, and the numerous data disclosures of private data stored in S3 reflect the dangers of doing so,” said Ameesh Divatia, co-founder and CEO of Baffle. “Now, with Baffle, enterprises can avoid the accidental disclosure of their S3 data whether it is driven by a cybercriminal or something as simple as human error.”

    Key benefits of the new offering for Baffle and Amazon S3 customers will include:

    • Transparent Reverse Proxy: Baffle provides a seamless, transparent reverse proxy for Amazon S3 that does not require any code changes for deployment, use, or management. Baffle can also leverage AWS server-side encryption acceleration in combination with fine grained policy and tenant management. This makes integration and operation straightforward without disrupting existing workflows.
    • Comprehensive Security: Baffle’s solution offers robust data security through masking, tokenization, and encryption at the field, object, or bucket level. This ensures that sensitive information is securely protected from unauthorized access in all downstream systems, including analytics and generative AI
    • Multi-Tenancy and Data Isolation: Baffle’s solution supports multi-tenancy and data isolation by cryptographically separating each tenant’s data from others. This ensures that each tenant’s information remains secure and private, even in a shared environment.

    Baffle is the easiest way to protect regulated data in the cloud, whether it is at rest, in use, or in transit. Baffle delivers an enterprise-class data security platform that secures data stores for applications, analytics, and AI with “no code” changes. The solution supports masking, tokenization, and encryption with role-based access control at the logical database, column-, row-, or field level, and unstructured data in object stores.

    For additional information about Baffle, please view the webinar here or to learn more about the product, please visit: https://baffle.io/data-security-for-amazon-s3/.

    About Baffle
    Baffle is the easiest way to protect sensitive data. We are the only security platform that cryptographically protects the data itself as it’s created, used, and shared across cloud-native data stores that feed analytics, applications, and AI. Baffle’s no-code solution masks, tokenizes and encrypts data without application changes or impacting the user experience. With Baffle, enterprises easily meet compliance controls and security mandates and reduce the effort and cost of protecting sensitive information to eliminate the impact of data breaches. Investors include Celesta Venture Capital, National Grid Partners, Lytical Ventures, Nepenthe Capital, True Ventures, Greenspring Associates, Clearvision Ventures, Engineering Capital, Triphammer Venture, ServiceNow Ventures, Thomvest Ventures, and Industry Ventures.

    Follow Baffle on LinkedIn.

    Contact:
    Stephanie Schlegel
    Offleash PR
    baffle@offleashpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Šiaulių bankas repays TLTRO III loan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    On 25th September 2024, Šiaulių bankas AB repaid a EUR 478.81 million loan taken out under the ECB’s TLTRO III programme. The funds were borrowed for a period of three years, starting on 29th September 2021. The final interest rate set on the loan was 1.8475%.

    The objective of the TLTRO III programme was to increase and support bank lending to businesses and individuals during times of economic instability.

    After this repayment, Šiaulių bankas has no outstanding loans under the TLTRO III programme.

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Kandji Introduces Kai, the Industry’s First AI Device Management Assistant for Apple Fleets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kandji, the Apple endpoint management and security platform, today announced Kai, the first-of-its-kind AI device management assistant for Apple devices. With Kai, Kandji harnesses the power of AI to equip IT teams with fast, insightful answers to questions about their corporate Apple devices, to drive efficiency and make more informed decisions – all while maintaining full data privacy.

    In a 2023 survey of IT leaders in organizations with 1,000 or more employees, 76% said that the use of Apple devices in their companies increased over the past year. But only 35% of IT teams characterized their Apple device management capabilities as “mature,” while 93% said their organizations would benefit from additional management capabilities. Kai gives them just that: By simplifying the reporting process, IT teams can make a larger impact at work by dedicating more time to high-value execution.

    Kai builds upon Kandji Prism, a reporting tool that uses traditional, filter-based queries to provide fleetwide visibility. Now those same queries can be performed using natural language, which empowers IT team members of all technical levels, including those in leadership positions, to quickly and efficiently obtain device information, freeing them up for more strategic work.

    “Today’s IT teams face the challenge of delivering more to meet growing business demands, while navigating shrinking resources. As a result, the pressure to increase productivity is at an all-time high,” said Weldon Dodd, SVP of Global Solutions at Kandji. “Leveraging AI not only drives efficiency, but also amplifies what IT teams can accomplish, allowing them to focus on more strategic projects that drive innovation. Kai opens up a new dimension of efficiency for our customers, helping them to maximize their contribution to the highest value activities instead of being mired in manipulating data to uncover the insights they need.”

    Kai is the first iteration of Kandji’s AI efforts and will be available to select customers for early testing on September 25. Kai will become generally available in 2025 as part of Kandji’s continued efforts to bring the same intelligence to other features. For more information please visit: https://kandji.io/blog/kandji-announces-kai-artificial-intelligence-for-device-management

    Helpful Links

    About Kandji
    Kandji is the Apple endpoint management and security platform. Kandji empowers companies to manage and secure Apple devices in the enterprise and at scale. By centrally securing and managing your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV devices, IT and InfoSec teams can save countless hours of manual, repetitive work with features like one-click compliance templates and more than 150 pre-built automations, apps, and workflows. Learn more at http://www.kandji.io.

    Media Contact
    Erica Anderson
    pr@kandji.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Pax8 Names Eric Torres Vice President of Channel and Community Engagement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace, today announced the appointment of Eric Torres as Vice President of Channel and Community Engagement. In his new role, Torres will lead the strategy, planning, and execution of impactful channel events and community-building initiatives to drive business growth. Torres will report to Rob Rae, Corporate Vice President of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8.

    “As we continue to drive partners’ success through our community engagement events and education, Pax8 is thrilled to bring on more firepower in order to take our programs to the next level. We are doing just that with the addition of Eric Torres,” said Rae. “Under Eric’s leadership, we will expand our community engagement with the goal of continuing to drive partner growth.”

    Before joining Pax8, Torres spent time as a channel leader in multiple organizations successfully serving the MSP community. With over 17 years of experience in the IT channel, Torres consistently delivers on his passion for educating the partner community on new ways to grow their businesses. His most recent role was VP of Channel at ScalePad, an automated asset lifecycle management solution, where he evangelized and educated the MSP community on the growth of ScalePad’s portfolio, including the addition of four new solutions in 2023.

    “We love that Pax8 is doubling down on partner engagement with the addition of Eric,” said Peter Melby, CEO of New Charter Technologies. “I have worked directly with Eric both while he was at ScalePad and Datto, and he has always given us great insights into the latest technology and programs to help support the growth of my business. He’s an excellent connector and seeks to truly understand the partners. He will continue to make a difference for us and other partners leading community engagement at Pax8.”

    About Pax8
    Pax8 is the technology marketplace of the future, linking partners, vendors, and small to midsized businesses (SMBs) through AI-powered insights and comprehensive product support. With a global partner ecosystem of over 35,000 managed service providers, Pax8 empowers SMBs worldwide by providing software and services that unlock their growth potential and enhance their security. Committed to innovating cloud commerce at scale, Pax8 drives customer acquisition and solution consumption across its entire ecosystem.

    Follow Pax8 on Blog, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube

    Media Contact:
    Kristen Beatty
    Sr. Director of Public Relations
    kbeatty@pax8.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group Releases Q3 2024 CRE Industry Conditions & Sentiment Survey Findings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (“Altus” or “the Company”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate (“CRE”), today released the findings from its Q3 2024 CRE Industry Conditions & Sentiment Survey, a quarterly survey that collects insights on current market conditions and future expectations. The latest survey draws on feedback from 437 seasoned CRE professionals representing over 163 firms in the U.S. and Canada from July 11 to August 6, 2024.

    The Q3 2024 CRE Industry Conditions & Sentiment Survey highlights participants’ perspectives on several topics, including:

    • Operating environment expectations: the majority of respondents (69% in the U.S. and 67% in Canada) described the near-term operating environment as “somewhat challenging” – consistent with the sentiment expressed the prior quarter in both markets.
    • Current focus areas: primary focus over the next six months remains on managing existing portfolios and exposures, with an uptick in respondents indicating they plan to deploy capital (up 11 percentage points in the U.S. and up 2 percentage points in Canada over the prior quarter).
    • Transaction intentions over the next six months: a significant majority of respondents (89% in the U.S. and 75% in Canada) signalled intent to transact, nearly 10 percentage points higher than last quarter for both countries.
    • Perception of pricing shifts: across the largest property sectors in the U.S., participants increasingly described current pricing as being “priced about right”, while in Canada respondents still characterized much of the market as largely “overpriced”.
    • Property performance expectations: industrial and multifamily asset classes continued to be top ranked as best performers, with office consistently ranked as a worst performer.
    • Priority issues: the cost of capital/interest rates remained as the top concern, reflecting overall low expectations for capital availability.

    “The survey results revealed lingering concerns in the commercial real estate market in Q3, though there was increasing optimism about future improvements,” commented Omar Eltorai, Director of Research, Altus Group. “While CRE transaction activity remained muted in the face of high borrowing costs and expectations of impending interest rate cuts, last week’s rate cut in the U.S. should boost investor sentiment, potentially encouraging those on the sidelines to re-engage with the market.”

    To download the full reports by country, please use the following links:

    About Altus Group

    Altus Group is a leading provider of asset and fund intelligence for commercial real estate. We deliver intelligence as a service to our global client base through a connected platform of industry-leading technology, advanced analytics, and advisory services. Trusted by the largest CRE leaders, our capabilities help commercial real estate investors, developers, proprietors, lenders, and advisors manage risks and improve performance returns throughout the asset and fund lifecycle. Altus Group is a global company headquartered in Toronto with approximately 2,900 employees across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit www.altusgroup.com.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Elizabeth Lambe
    Director, Global Communications, Altus Group
    1-416-641-9787
    Elizabeth.Lambe@altusgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: High Wire Networks Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Leader in Frost & Sullivan’s 2024 Managed Security Services Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BATAVIA, Ill., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI), a leading global provider of managed cybersecurity, received top ranking in the new Frost & Sullivan (F&S) report on the cybersecurity industry, Frost Radar™: Managed Security Services in Americas, 2024.

    Across a field of more than 200 competitors, Frost & Sullivan ranked High Wire among the Top 15 Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) that are delivering the greatest results in the categories of growth and innovation.

    Frost & Sullivan noted that despite High Wire being a relatively new market entrant, “it continues to grow at an impressive triple-digit pace, surpassing almost every competitor in that metric.”

    According to the report, such growth is made possible by the company’s channel-only strategy, which brings in the entirety of an MSP’s customer base instead of individual organizations.

    “High Wire Networks has expanded its portfolio significantly since our last iteration of the Frost Radar,” noted Frost & Sullivan cybersecurity industry analyst, Lucas Ferreyra. “The company has centralized its entire offering around the Overwatch Managed Security Services Ecosystem, which includes its flagship product, the eponymous Overwatch platform that provides managed XDR and managed SOC/SOAR with 24/7 monitoring, detection, threat remediation, and proactive threat hunting across the environment.”

    Operating at the core of High Wire’s security operation center is Overwatch SOAR™, a proprietary security orchestration, automation and response (SOAR) technology.

    The unique AI embedded in Overwatch SOAR automatically consolidates alerts from various threat prevention and detection-and-response platforms and processes them with intelligence-based rules that provide enhanced visibility, improved correlation, and faster remediation.

    “The Overwatch ecosystem provides a combination of prevention, detection, and response capabilities in a closed loop,” explained Ferreyra. “This provides comprehensive protection for customers and makes it easy for the provider to upsell its services, enhancing its growth potential.”

    In the category of innovation, the report highlights how High Wire is developing more automation capabilities for its entire stack, regularly adding pre-built automations and integrations to decrease analysts’ workload. R&D activities also include enhancing real-time threat intelligence as it further builds its own threat intelligence network.

    As the report highlighted, High Wire’s ecosystem includes managed detection and response, managed SASE, managed secure edge, continuous vulnerability scanning and management, patch management (to remediate patch vulnerabilities and fix misconfigurations), OT/IoT security, email security and security awareness training. To increase flexibility, High Wire Networks can leverage tools and solutions in the customer ecosystem, integrating tools into its SOAR capabilities.

    Regarding growth, the report notes that while High Wire Networks “has only a small slice of the Americas MSS market, but it continues to grow at an impressive triple- digit pace, surpassing almost every competitor in that metric. Such growth is made possible by the company’s channel-only strategy, which brings in the entirety of an MSP’s customer base instead of individual organizations.”

    High Wire offers its Overwatch managed security services exclusively through a global network of managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers totaling more than 200 worldwide.

    The report also discussed how High Wire Networks’ approach to the MSS space revolves around reducing the workload for security analysts, multiplying efficiency, and automating tasks unrelated to decision-making.

    High Wire’s SOAR technology serves as an exponential force multiplier for its dedicated teams of professional security experts, empowering them to deliver the most secure and cost-effective cybersecurity solutions available on the market today.

    “High Wire Networks’ investments in a security service to disrupt the edge security space, coupled with its current managed SASE and zero trust offerings are appropriate for its target market,” added Ferreyra. “Establishing an effective zero trust strategy is a complex endeavor that requires sizeable resources and expert knowledge; as a result, organizations with lower security maturity will usually look to partner with cybersecurity providers to deploy these technologies. High Wire Networks should continue to invest in this significant growth opportunity.”

    High Wire CEO, Mark Porter, commented: “We are honored to be recognized by Frost & Sullivan for our commitment to innovation and growth in the MSS space. The Top 15 ranking reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team in delivering comprehensive, cutting-edge security solutions through our Overwatch managed security services ecosystem. By leveraging our platform’s robust suite of offerings—from managed XDR to advanced edge protection—we continue to meet the evolving needs of our partners and customers.”

    “For our channel partners, we create significant opportunities by providing layers of expertise at every engagement with MSPs,” added Porter. “Every deal has the upsell potential for the MSP or reseller to migrate its entire customer base to High Wire Networks’ services, augmenting our growth potential significantly.”

    The company provides further details about the Frost & Sullivan’s report in this YouTube video here.

    High Wire’s Overwatch offering addresses a global cybersecurity market that is projected to grow at a 14.3% CAGR to reach $563 billion by 2032.

    High Wire was also named to CRN’s MSP 500 and Elite 150 lists of the nation’s top IT managed service providers for 2023 and 2024.

    Porter discusses the Frost & Sullivan’s 2024 Managed Security Services report in the company’s YouTube video here.

    About High Wire Networks
    High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI) is a fast-growing, award-winning global provider of managed cybersecurity. Through over 200 channel partners, it delivers trusted managed services for more than 1,100 managed security customers worldwide. End-customers include Fortune 500 companies and many of the nation’s largest government agencies. Its U.S. based 24/7 Network Operations Center and Security Operations Center is located in Chicago.

    Learn more at HighWireNetworks.com. Follow the company on X, view its extensive video series on YouTube or connect on LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    The above news release contains forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this document that are not statements of historical fact, including but not limited to, statements identified by the use of terms such as “anticipate,” “appear,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “hope,” “indicate,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” “would,” and other variations or negative expressions of these terms, including statements related to expected market trends and the Company’s performance, are all “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on assumptions that management believes are reasonable based on currently available information, and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performances and are subject to a wide range of external factors, uncertainties, business risks, and other risks identified in filings made by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the company’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances upon which any statement is based except as required by applicable law and regulations.

    High Wire Contact
    Susanna Song
    Chief Marketing Officer
    High Wire Networks
    Tel +1 (952) 974-4000
    Email contact

    Investor & Media Relations:
    Ronald Both or Grant Stude
    CMA Investor & Media Relations
    Tel +1 (949) 432-7557
    Email contact

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e7bae7cf-3bc9-46bd-8170-0f9fe66d3685

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Branch Energy and Voltus Partner to Leverage Behind-the-Meter Energy Storage to Reduce Energy Spend for C&I Customers in Texas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Voltus, Inc. (Voltus), the leading distributed energy resource (DER) software platform and virtual power plant (VPP) operator, today announced that it will partner with Branch Energy to open new revenue streams for Branch’s battery-hosting commercial and industrial (C&I) customers, improving customer resilience against electric service disruptions and supporting grid reliability in Texas.

    Branch Energy provides businesses with long-term energy price stability through a combination of fixed-price energy supply contracts and behind-the-meter battery storage systems that Branch installs at no-cost to its customers. The charge and discharge of these distributed batteries are optimized for economic arbitrage in real-time by Branch Energy’s proprietary demand management software, which dispatches battery capacity based on analyses of Texas power price data.

    “Our customers work with us because we consistently deliver on our promise to deliver reliable electricity at a below-market cost,” said Branch Energy Co-founder and CEO, Alex Ince-Cushman. “And with ERCOT anticipating a near-doubling of system peak demand by 2030, both the challenge and urgency of delivering on that promise is intensifying. Our partnership with Voltus ensures that our customers can maximize the economic benefit of their behind-the-meter battery assets, while providing a valuable grid resource in this high load growth environment.”

    This partnership integrates Voltus’s platform — which monetizes every type of DER by connecting them to wholesale electricity markets — with Branch Energy’s demand management software. The integration of these technologies equips Branch Energy with the intelligence needed to determine on an hourly basis whether a customer-sited battery will deliver more value to customers by participating in economic arbitrage or by participating in the wholesale market with Voltus.

    “The Texas grid’s vulnerability to extreme weather and rapid load growth underscores the critical need for flexible demand-side resources — both for the reliability and resilience of the system as a whole, as well as a tool for offsetting rising energy costs,” said Dan Svejnar, SVP of Growth at Voltus. “Together, Voltus and Branch will ensure that customers continue to enjoy stable, substantially below-market electricity rates without compromising site reliability.”

    “The Branch-Voltus alliance in Texas joins together two innovators in the distributed energy space where they’re needed most,” said Tim Woodward, Managing Director of Climate Tech focused venture capital firm, Prelude Ventures, which has equity stakes in both Voltus and Branch. “They’re building a new, customer-centric, transactive energy model that holds a great deal of promise for consumers nationwide.”

    At present, the Branch Energy and Voltus partnership encompasses engagements with 15 Branch Energy customers, whose battery energy storage systems will be installed on-site by year’s end. Voltus will connect these devices to ERCOT-operated markets to provide ancillary services. These batteries will continue to have capacity reserved for on-site consumption by host customers, a backstop for potential outages that will not compromise savings potential.

    About Voltus
    Voltus is a leading DER technology platform and virtual power plant operator connecting distributed energy resources to electricity markets, delivering less expensive, more reliable, and more sustainable electricity. Our commercial and industrial customers and DER partners generate cash by allowing Voltus to maximize the value of their flexible load, distributed generation, energy storage, energy efficiency, and electric vehicle resources in these markets. To learn more, visit www.voltus.co.

    Media contact
    Mona Khaldi
    press@voltus.co

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LM Funding America, Inc. estimates that the 135.7 Bitcoin holdings on August 31, 2024, were valued at approximately $8.7 million in their monthly updates

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LM Funding America, Inc. (NASDAQ: LMFA) (“LM Funding” or the “Company”), a cryptocurrency mining and technology-based specialty finance company, today provided a preliminary, unaudited Bitcoin mining and operational update for the month ended August 31, 2024.

     
    Metrics *    		 Three Months 1st Qtr.  2024  
    One Month April 30, 2024    		  
    One Month May 31, 2024    		  
    One Month June 30, 2024    		 One Month July 31, 2024 One Month August 31, 2024 Eight Months Ended August 31, 2024
    Bitcoin Beginning Balance 95.1   163.4   155.1   163.1   160.5   132.5   95.1  
    Bitcoin Mined, net 86.4   24.7   14.0   5.4   4.6   7.2   142.3  
    Bitcoin Sold (18.0 ) (33.0 ) (6.0 ) (8.0 ) (32.5 ) (4.0 ) (101.5 )
    Service Fee (0.1 ) –   –   –   (0.1 ) –   (0.2 )
    Bitcoin Holdings at Month End 163.4   155.1   163.1   160.5   132.5   135.7   135.7  
                   
    Approximate Miners Deployed at Month End 5,940   5,880   5,510   1,878   3,800   3,700    
    Approximate Miners In-Transit at Month End     370   4,002   2,080   2,200    
    Approximate Potential Hash Rate at Month End (PH/s) 614   639   639   639   639   639    

    *Unaudited

    The Company estimates that the value of its 135.7 Bitcoin holdings on August 31, 2024, was approximately $8.7 million, based on an estimated September 24, 2024, BTC price of $64,250.

    Bruce Rodgers, Chairman and CEO of LM Funding, commented, “We continue to make significant progress on our key initiatives, including the expansion of our new 15 MW hosting facility near Oklahoma City, where we relocated approximately 3,000 Antminer S19j Pro machines. Hosting these machines at cost for the next six months will enable us to significantly reduce our operating expenses.”

    “We are also investing the proceeds from our recent private placement, alongside the $5 million secured non-convertible loan facility, into high-return projects. These strategic investments are expected to be accretive, while accelerating our growth and driving meaningful returns on capital for our shareholders,” concluded Rodgers.

    About LM Funding America
    LM Funding America, Inc. (Nasdaq: LMFA), together with its subsidiaries, 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 the states of Washington, Colorado, and Illinois, by funding a certain portion of the Associations’ rights to delinquent accounts that are selected by the Associations 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 guaranties of future results and conditions but rather 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 www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, uncertainty created by the risks of entering into and operating in the cryptocurrency mining business, uncertainty in the cryptocurrency mining business in general, problems with hosting vendors in the mining business, the capacity of our Bitcoin mining machines and our related ability to purchase power at reasonable prices, the ability to finance and grow our cryptocurrency mining operations, our ability to acquire new accounts in our specialty finance business at appropriate prices, the potential need for additional capital in the future, changes in governmental regulations that affect our ability to collected sufficient amounts on defaulted consumer receivables, changes in the credit or capital markets, changes in interest rates, and negative press regarding the debt collection industry. 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: CERo Therapeutics, Inc. Announces Financing and Provides Update on Investigational New Drug Application for CER-1236

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company requests Type A Meeting with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding clinical hold for CER-1236; announces key management changes

    SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: CERO) (“CERo”), an innovative immunotherapy company seeking to advance the next generation of engineered T cell therapeutics that employ phagocytic mechanisms, today announced that existing investors have committed a financing of $1.25 million. With these funds the Company plans to work with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to resolve the remaining IND issue for CER-1236, which is on clinical hold.

    Vice Chairman Chris Ehrlich will become Chairman and Interim Chief Executive Officer. Brian Atwood has elected to step down as President and CEO to become a consultant to CERo and to Mr. Ehrlich during this transition; he will remain on the board of directors. Both Charles Carter, CERo’s Chief Financial Officer, and Daniel Corey, M.D., Chief Technology Officer have also elected to step down from their positions and board seat in the case of Dr. Corey. The Company has already identified consultants to continue to progress its ongoing work.

    “This is a unique opportunity for us to reset and ensure that CERo is able to deliver on the promise of its science,” stated Mr. Ehrlich. “We will continue to benefit from Brian’s experience in the market, while we work diligently to progress CER-1236 into the clinic. In the meantime, we are implementing cost reductions to minimize our capital needs and have already made considerable headway in identifying replacements for the CFO and CTO positions, both activities which we believe will be instrumental in helping us to drive forward and complete the task at hand.”

    CERo continues to progress in its work to address the Clinical Hold placed on its Investigational New Drug Application for CER-1236. The company has requested a Type A Meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding its open Investigational New Drug Application, which is currently on Clinical Hold. The Company intends to discuss its plans and data collected to date.

    As announced previously, the clinical hold is related to only two pharmacology and toxicology questions which the Company believes can be addressed. CERo has initiated pre-clinical in vitro studies and experiments, interim data from which constituted the Company’s Type A Meeting Request regarding the clinical hold. These experiments will continue into October, as CERo awaits FDA’s response to the submitted Type A Meeting Request.

    About CERo Therapeutics, Inc.
    CERo is an innovative immunotherapy company advancing the development of next generation engineered T cell therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Its proprietary approach to T cell engineering, which enables it to integrate certain desirable characteristics of both innate and adaptive immunity into a single therapeutic construct, is designed to engage the body’s full immune repertoire to achieve optimized cancer therapy. This novel cellular immunotherapy platform is expected to redirect patient-derived T cells to eliminate tumors by building in engulfment pathways that employ phagocytic mechanisms to destroy cancer cells, creating what CERo refers to as Chimeric Engulfment Receptor T cells (“CER-T”). CERo believes the differentiated activity of CER-T cells will afford them greater therapeutic application than currently approved chimeric antigen receptor (“CAR-T”) cell therapy, as the use of CER-T may potentially span both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. CERo anticipates initiating clinical trials for its lead product candidate, CER-1236, in 2024 for hematological malignancies.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This communication contains statements that are forward-looking and as such are not historical facts. This includes, without limitation, statements regarding the financial position, business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations of CERo. These statements constitute projections, forecasts and forward-looking statements, and are not guarantees of performance. Such statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. When used in this communication, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “strive,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. When CERo discusses its strategies or plans, it is making projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on the beliefs of, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to, CERo’s management.

    Actual results could differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements in this communication. Certain risks that could cause actual results to differ are set forth in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on April 2, 2024, and the documents incorporated by reference therein. The risks described in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission are not exhaustive. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can CERo assess the impact of all such risk factors on its business, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements made by CERo or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. CERo undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contact:
    Brian Atwood
    Chief Executive Officer
    batwood@cero.bio

    Investors:
    CORE IR
    investors@cero.bio

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Pixability and Ad Fontes Media Join Forces to Empower Advertisers to Safely Support News Content on YouTube

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pixability, (www.pixability.com), a leader in AI-driven contextual targeting, brand suitability and performance on YouTube and CTV, today announced the launch of a brand safety solution for news content with Ad Fontes, a leader in rating news sources for bias and reliability. The new offering will be the only misinformation solution in the marketplace that tackles the two-part problem of protecting advertisers on news channels on YouTube–(1) identifying sources of news that are reputable, trustworthy and not overly biased and (2) screening those reputable news channels for high risk, sensitive news stories. Pixability will combine its brand safety solution, which includes tech and human monitoring, with Ad Fontes’ in depth news ratings system to ensure marketers are running their ads in a trusted news environment.

    “At a time when false and misleading information is rampant across all platforms, it’s important we identify and provide support for sources of news that are trustworthy and not expressing extreme bias,” said Vanessa Otero, founder and CEO of Ad Fontes. “As the largest video platform in the world, YouTube has a vast ocean of content of varying reliability, which presents both huge opportunities and challenges. We believe our solution, combined with Pixability’s brand suitability technology, will together provide a much-needed way to target high-quality journalism and information on YouTube while in turn steering clear of low-reliability content.”

    The new solution will give advertisers the ability to select channels on YouTube that are not overly biased and that follow proper and recognized journalistic practices of fact-checking. It also incorporates Pixability’s brand suitability technology and real-time monitoring of sensitive news to isolate stories, even on reputable sources, that may not be appropriate for certain advertisers.

    “We are thrilled to be partnering with Ad Fontes to bring this solution to the market at a time when supporting reputable news sources matters more than ever,” commented David George, CEO of Pixability. “We’ve seen a pattern of brands and agencies avoiding news content altogether because of a lack of effective brand suitability solutions in the market tailored for news sites and are proud to be solving for this problem on YouTube specifically.”

    Industry leaders are also acknowledging the importance of the new solution for YouTube. AJ Brown, COO of the Brand Safety Institute said the following:
    “Brands play a critical role in safeguarding the future of reliable, quality journalism. The decision to invest in news calls for nuanced buying options that go beyond traditional brand suitability risk categorization, which too often bluntly demonetizes high-quality, high-impact journalism. Bringing together Pixability’s Brand Safety solutions and Ad Fontes Media’s reliability and bias scoring allows marketers to support quality journalism with targeted ad buys on YouTube that align with their brand’s values.”

    Pixability’s insights team recently released data that showed that, on average, 40% of YouTube advertisers ask to avoid news content on YouTube. This not only leads to a lack of funding for reputable news sources but also hurts advertisers as they may miss engagement opportunities with their audiences in key areas of interest.

    Pixability’s insights team also released the following data that demonstrates the value of news content for advertisers:

    • Advertisers from food & beverage, automotive, entertainment, travel and many other industries see that news content drives anywhere from 24%-44% better engagement than the average content category on YouTube
    • The desirable 18-24 year old demographic is most likely to engage with advertising on news content on YouTube
    • Reputable news channels on YouTube have a 99% favorability rating from audiences

    About Pixability

    Pixability is the leading AI-driven technology company empowering the world’s largest brands and their agencies to maximize the value of their video advertising on YouTube and CTV. Leveraging its proprietary technology platform and data, Pixability makes every video impression matter by identifying contextually relevant, brand suitable inventory and maximizing cost efficient outcomes. Pixability’s suite of solutions are used by the top media agencies including IPG, Publicis, Omnicom, Dentsu, Stagwell, and GroupM, as well as brands such as KIND, McDonalds, Salesforce, Lego and CVS. The company is the only YouTube partner certified for brand suitability and contextual targeting as well as content insights, enabling unique solutions for the benefit of brands and their agencies. For more information about Pixability, please visit www.pixability.com.

    About Ad Fontes Media

    Ad Fontes Media is the producer of The Media Bias Chart®, which rates media sources in terms of political bias and reliability. The company was founded with the mission of rating all the news to positively impact the media ecosystem. Ad Fontes Media rates content at the source level, article level, and episode level using a combination of human analysts and AI for the most accurate and real-time ratings available on the market. The company’s Interactive Media Bias Chart Data Platform, API, and direct ad-tech integrations allow Ad Fontes Media’s brand, media, and media technology partners to leverage its comprehensive news source ratings so they can engage with them in real time in media planning, activation, and reporting.

    CONTACT:

    Silicon Alley Media for Pixability
    Alexandra Levy
    alex@siliconalley-media.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TSplus Talks Remote Work Security in Exclusive Interview with SafetyDetectives

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TSplus, a global leader in remote access technology, is proud to announce that its Marketing Director, Caleb Zaharris, was recently interviewed by SafetyDetectives, where he shared insights into TSplus’ ongoing mission to enhance cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes.

    Caleb Zaharris, who has 15 years of experience in network engineering and administration, discussed how TSplus is at the forefront of providing secure, cost-effective, and user-friendly solutions for remote access.

    Remote Work Security in Today’s Digital Landscape

    With the rise of remote work, remote work security has become a critical focus for organizations around the world, and TSplus is committed to delivering solutions that ensure secure remote connections and protection against evolving cyber threats. As businesses continue to adapt to the remote work model, protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure access to company resources are more important than ever.

    Caleb states, “Anybody can deploy a server, and with our products, it’s even easier because we focus on making them easy to install and use. But the key to success is planning—understanding your security needs and server loads.”

    TSplus’s Solutions for Remote Work Security

    In the interview (full interview here), Caleb highlighted the company’s flagship product, TSplus Remote Access, which has been designed to enable seamless access to company resources from anywhere in the world while maintaining top-tier security. He also emphasized the importance of solutions like TSplus Advanced Security, which provides an added layer of protection for companies facing potential cyber risks.

    TSplus Advanced Security offers businesses a comprehensive suite of tools designed to bolster remote work security and control access, monitor threats, and secure their remote desktop environments. Its robust set of features includes IP filtering, geo-restriction, ransomware protection, and more, ensuring that users can operate safely in a remote work setting.

    Download TSplus Advanced Security today and experience the power of cutting-edge cybersecurity tailored for remote access environments. TSplus invites all businesses to test the software for free and see firsthand how TSplus is shaping the future of remote work security.

    Learn more and download the free trial here: Link to TSplus Advanced Security

    About TSplus
    TSplus is a global leader in remote access, application delivery, and cybersecurity solutions, helping organizations worldwide stay productive and secure in a remote-first world.

    Media Contact:
    Floriane Mer
    Marketing Manager at TSplus
    floriane.mer@tsplus.net

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/04801e84-3a5b-4c30-b514-512b9cb9a580

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MELD Bringing Fiat Payments On-chain With a New zk Privacy Network

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MELD, a new Neobank coming to the market with a new type of banking services platform that merges crypto services and fiat services into a single platform for both users and businesses alike, giving them the ability to have a traditional deposit account and a crypto wallet. MELD account holders can exchange between crypto/fiat and transfer funds between MELD accounts for free while earning interest on stablecoins. Bringing the best of both worlds together in one account.

    This new network is the latest component of MELD neobanking solution, built directly on the blockchain and employs the benefits of being transparent and verifiable. Blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum have been doing this for more than ten years. MELD’s innovation is bringing these qualities to the traditional financial space and applying it to banking transactions.

    In its zkBanking network, MELD has built a high performance banking system in line with traditional solutions used by banks today. With each transaction the details of the transaction are confirmed and then processed into a blockchain transaction with a confirmation code. This confirmation is then turned into a proof and published on the MELD public blockchain.

    When a MELD Neobank user wants to prove to a third party they have paid for something or do not have the funds in their bank account, they can share the proof which has been verified. This applies to both private and business accounts in the MELD Neobank.

    This new type of verification becomes particularly useful when businesses are doing cross border trade and need to prove they have the funds to pay for a trade deal. Also businesses can build technology on top of zkProofs to verify a transaction without receiving sensitive private data from a user.

    The network will go live on January 1, 2025. zkBanking nodes will be initially run by five parties with plans to expand that to more than ten in the coming months. MELD’s ambition is to make the traditional neobank network as decentralized as the MELD blockchain while meeting the regulatory requirements of running a global neobank.

    MELD neobank offering will be launching in October, giving retail and businesses in 160 countries crypto-friendly banking. MELD is different because they are crypto native, coming from the world of decentralized finance (DeFi) and integrating classic banking products with a twist.

    MELD is doing a presale of their zkBanking nodes to boost the decentralized nature of the network and give users access to the networks block rewards while they secure the network at the same time. For more details about the node sale go to: https://docs.meld.com/meld-blockchain/zkbanking-network

    About MELD
    MELD is a crypto-native global neobank powered by the blockchain. Bringing fiat currencies like (30+ including USD and EUR) and crypto currencies (1000+ BTC and ETH) together in one seamless wallet supporting more than 150 countries. MELD makes it easy to navigate between these two worlds and get the best out of both. From generating a yield on your crypto to debit cards and business accounts, MELD brings fundamental banking services to everyone.

    The MELD blockchain powers more than just the MELD Neobank, with a non-custodial lending and borrowing protocol and more than 30 businesses building on MELD. Users interact with all of this through the MELD web and Mobile app helping people and businesses take full advantage of both their crypto and fiat assets.

    You can follow the project and stay up to date with its development at these links: Website | X (Twitter) | Telegram |

    Contact:
    Ken Olling
    press@meld.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by MELD. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Report Highlights Critical Turning Point for Middle Class Families

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A “middle class” income no longer guarantees financial security, threatening both the nation’s economy and its social fabric, according to a new report released today by the Financial Health Network, the leading voice on financial health. The report, Households Under Financial Pressure, describes how daily economic challenges have heightened pessimism and political polarization; previous research found that only about one-third of Americans are considered “financially healthy.”

    Financial health is broadly defined as the ability to spend, save, borrow, and plan in ways that allow people to be financially secure and withstand financial shocks. The report stresses the need for urgent collaboration across key sectors like housing, childcare, and transportation to restore the financial security and well-being of America’s middle class.

    “The middle class might be a hot campaign topic, but let’s be clear: financial health isn’t a red or blue issue — families are struggling financially and it’s happening across race, geography, and politics,” said Jennifer Tescher, president and CEO of the Financial Health Network. “Rising costs for essentials mean more middle-class households struggle with the day-to-day and can’t save for the future, regardless of how much they work or plan ahead. No matter the outcome of this election, we all have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to build a bold new coalition that transcends political divides and is fully committed to securing financial health for all.”

    What is “Middle Class”?
    A May 2024 Gallup poll found that 54% of Americans identify as middle class … but are they?

    • Pew Research Center defines middle class as earning two-thirds to twice the national median income, or $67,819 to $203,458 in 2022 for a family of four. However, only about 50% of adults fall into this category, a figure that has declined steadily over the past five decades.
    • An Obama Administration Task Force on the Middle Class defined the middle class as “one’s ability to achieve common goals, like home and car ownership, college education for children, health and retirement security, and occasional family vacations.”
    • A February 2024 Washington Post study used “basic lifestyle elements” to define middle class achievement: a secure job, ability to save money for the future, ability to afford an emergency $1,000 expense without going into debt, ability to pay all bills on time without worry, having health insurance, and the ability to retire comfortably. With this criteria, just 35% of the population classify as “middle class.”

    Recommendations for Shaping the Future of Financial Health
    The report is part of a new initiative aimed at identifying the needs, challenges, and opportunities for financial health. Financial Health Frontiers, a new Financial Health Network initiative supported by the Citi Foundation, will explore the headwinds and tailwinds that will shape financial health in the years to come. The effort is being guided by an Advisory Council of industry experts, business leaders, policymakers, advocates, and researchers.

    The report makes several broad recommendations, including:

    • Expanding measurement, evaluation, and research efforts to assess how housing, labor, and environment policies and investments in education can support the middle class.
    • Looking more holistically at the interconnected expenses families face – things like childcare, housing, and transportation – with a particular focus on how different communities experience the barriers to a middle class lifestyle to design new solutions.
    • More intentionally fostering collaboration among business leaders, community-based organizations, and government agencies, along with policymakers and advocates working in housing, education, transportation, finance, and health care to build the middle class.

    This report will be followed by deep dives into how other financial headwinds and tailwinds – shifting demographics, the changing nature of work, climate change, and tech/artificial intelligence – will impact financial health in the future.

    About the Financial Health Network
    The Financial Health Network is the leading authority on financial health. We are a trusted resource for business leaders, policymakers, and innovators united in a mission to improve the financial health of their customers, employees, and communities. Through research, advisory services, measurement tools, and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, we advance awareness, understanding, and proven best practices in support of improved financial health for all. For more on the Financial Health Network, go to www.finhealthnetwork.org and follow us on Twitter at @FinHealthNet.

    Media Contacts
    Michael Salmassian
    Financial Health Network
    msalmassian@finhealthnetwork.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Waterstone Financial Declares Regular Quarterly Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WAUWATOSA, Wis., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On September 24, 2024, the Board of Directors of Waterstone Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: WSBF) declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per common share. The dividend is payable on November 1, 2024, to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 8, 2024.

    About Waterstone Financial, Inc:

    Waterstone Financial, Inc. is the savings and loan holding company for WaterStone Bank. WaterStone Bank was established in 1921 and offers a full suite of personal and business banking products. The Bank has branches in Wauwatosa/State St, Brookfield, Fox Point/North Shore, Franklin/Hales Corners, Germantown/Menomonee Falls, Greenfield/Loomis Rd, Milwaukee/Oklahoma Ave, Oak Creek/27th St, Oak Creek/Howell Ave, Oconomowoc/Lake Country, Pewaukee, Waukesha, West Allis/Greenfield Ave, and West Allis/National Ave, Wisconsin. WaterStone Bank is the parent company to Waterstone Mortgage, which has the ability to lend in 48 states. For more information about WaterStone Bank, go to wsbonline.com.

    Contact: Mark R. Gerke
    Chief Financial Officer
    414-459-4012
    markgerke@wsbonline.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMMO, Inc. Appoints New Chief Financial Officer and Provides Corporate Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Paul Kasowski, Who Has Served as Chief Compliance and Transformation Officer, Named New Chief Financial Officer

    The Board of Directors Has Retained Independent Advisors to Support an Investigation Into Financial Reporting for Fiscal Years 2020-2023

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMMO, Inc. (Nasdaq: POWW, POWWP) (“AMMO” or the “Company”), the owner of GunBroker.com, the largest online marketplace serving the firearms and shooting sports industries, and a leading vertically integrated producer of high-performance ammunition and components, today announced that Paul Kasowski, who has served as the Company’s Chief Compliance and Transformation Officer, has been appointed by AMMO’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) as the Company’s new Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Kasowski succeeds Rob Wiley, who resigned on September 19, 2024 at the request of the Board.

    After due consideration, the Company’s Board determined that Mr. Kasowski possesses the requisite experience and qualifications to serve as CFO. Mr. Kasowski most recently served as Chief Compliance and Transformation Officer since January 2024.

    Jared Smith, AMMO’s Chief Executive Officer and Board member, commented:

    “Since my appointment as CEO in July 2023, I have prioritized laying a foundation for long-term value creation and helping AMMO mature as a public company. The appointment of Paul will support these efforts. He brings additive experience in a variety of areas, including enhancing margins, improving internal processes, and positioning businesses to transform.”

    Paul Kasowski Biography:

    Prior to joining the Company in January 2024, Mr. Kasowski held the role of SVP, Business Transformation for Kinder’s Seasonings & Sauces from January 2022 to July 2023 where he professionalized financial reporting and implemented margin improvement projects while building a winning culture for this high growth brand. Previously, from December 2020 to December 2021, he was CFO for Arizona Natural Resources, a privately owned manufacturer of premium beauty care products where he oversaw finance, accounting, IT, HR, planning and sourcing. Mr. Kasowski also held the role of VP, Financial Planning & Analysis from April 2019 to December 2020 for Igloo Products Corp., a manufacturer of coolers and hydration products based in Katy, TX. From 2003 to 2019, he held progressing roles in finance, strategy, and operations for Del Monte Foods and Ainsworth Pet Nutrition. Mr. Kasowski earned his M.S. in Supply Chain Management from Michigan State University, MBA from Ohio University, and B.S. in Finance from Robert Morris University.

    Independent Investigation Into Historical Financial Statements

    As disclosed in a Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on September 24, 2024, a Special Sub-Committee of the Nominations and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board of Directors has retained a law firm to conduct an independent investigation into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting for the fiscal years 2020 through 2023. The independent investigation is in its early stages and is focused on fiscal years 2020 through 2023.

    The Company does not plan to comment further until the completion of the investigation.

    About AMMO, Inc.

    With its corporate offices headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, AMMO designs and manufactures products for a variety of aptitudes, including law enforcement, military, sport shooting and self-defense. The Company was founded in 2016 with a vision to change, innovate and invigorate the complacent munitions industry. AMMO promotes branded munitions as well as its patented STREAK™ Visual Ammunition, /stelTH/™ subsonic munitions, and specialty rounds for military use via government programs. For more information, please visit: www.ammo-inc.com.

    About GunBroker

    GunBroker is the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting and related products. Aside from merchandise bearing its logo, GunBroker currently sells none of the items listed on its website. Third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Launched in 1999, the GunBroker.com website is an informative, secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, air guns, archery equipment, knives and swords, firearms accessories and hunting/shooting gear online. GunBroker promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. For more information, visit: www.gunbroker.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This document contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words like “may,” “will,” “likely,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “plan,” “believe,” “intend,” “goal,” “seek,” “estimate,” “project,” “continue,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of the business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that arise after the dates they are made. You should, however, consult further disclosures and risk factors we include in Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports filed on Form 8-K.

    Contacts

    For media:
    Longacre Square Partners
    Joe Householder, (646) 582-3643
    AMMO@longacresquare.com

    For investors:
    Matt Blazei
    CoreIR
    Phone: (516) 386-0430
    IR@ammo-inc.com

    Source: AMMO, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nasdaq Announces Mid-Month Open Short Interest Positions in Nasdaq Stocks as of Settlement Date September 13, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the end of the settlement date of September 13, 2024, short interest in 3,057 Nasdaq Global MarketSM securities totaled 12,241,625,467 shares compared with 12,296,040,928 shares in 3,037 Global Market issues reported for the prior settlement date of August 30, 2024. The mid-September short interest represents 3.06 days compared with 3.38 days for the prior reporting period.

    Short interest in 1,670 securities on The Nasdaq Capital MarketSM totaled 2,107,947,669 shares at the end of the settlement date of September 13, 2024, compared with 2,103,446,709 shares in 1,668 securities for the previous reporting period. This represents a 1.34 day average daily volume; the previous reporting period’s figure was 1.27.

    In summary, short interest in all 4,727 Nasdaq® securities totaled 14,349,573,136 shares at the September 13, 2024 settlement date, compared with 4,705 issues and 14,399,487,637 shares at the end of the previous reporting period. This is 2.57 days average daily volume, compared with an average of 2.72 days for the prior reporting period.

    The open short interest positions reported for each Nasdaq security reflect the total number of shares sold short by all broker/dealers regardless of their exchange affiliations. A short sale is generally understood to mean the sale of a security that the seller does not own or any sale that is consummated by the delivery of a security borrowed by or for the account of the seller.

    For more information on Nasdaq Short interest positions, including publication dates, visit
    http://www.nasdaq.com/quotes/short-interest.aspx
    or http://www.nasdaqtrader.com/asp/short_interest.asp.

    About Nasdaq:
    Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a leading global technology company serving corporate clients, investment managers, banks, brokers, and exchange operators as they navigate and interact with the global capital markets and the broader financial system. We aspire to deliver world-leading platforms that improve the liquidity, transparency, and integrity of the global economy. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software, exchange capabilities, and client-centric services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence. To learn more about the company, technology solutions, and career opportunities, visit us on LinkedIn, on X @Nasdaq, or at www.nasdaq.com. 

    Media Contact:
    Jennifer Lawson
    jennifer.lawson@nasdaq.com

    A graph accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ea6c93d1-befd-4bc5-88a7-0ac3aaa2dcbf

    NDAQO

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. Declares Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc.’s (NYSE: GBCI) Board of Directors, at a meeting held on September 24, 2024, declared a quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share. The Company has declared 158 consecutive quarterly dividends and has increased the dividend 49 times. The dividend is payable on October 17, 2024, to owners of record on October 8, 2024.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.:

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).

    Visit Glacier’s website at http://www.glacierbancorp.com

    Contact: Randall M. Chesler, CEO
    (406) 751-4722
    Ron J. Copher, CFO
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LanzaTech and Woodside Energy to Participate in Bank of America Hosted Webinar on September 27, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) (“LanzaTech”), the carbon recycling company transforming waste carbon into sustainable fuels, chemicals, and materials, and Woodside Energy Group Ltd. (ASX, NYSE, LSE: WSD) (“Woodside”), the global energy company founded in Australia providing reliable and affordable energy to help people lead better lives, today jointly announced that Dr. Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, and Meg O’Neill, CEO of Woodside, will participate in a webinar hosted by Bank of America analyst Steve Byrne to discuss hot topics and key challenges related to globally scaling the circular carbon economy and developing impactful carbon abatement programs for energy companies.

    Date: Friday, September 27, 2024
    Time: 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time

    To attend the webinar, or request the archived replay, please email Kate Walsh, Vice President of Investor Relations at LanzaTech: Kate.Walsh@lanzatech.com.

    About LanzaTech
    LanzaTech Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: LNZA) is the carbon recycling company transforming waste carbon into sustainable fuels, chemicals, and materials. Using its biorecycling technology, LanzaTech captures carbon generated by energy-intensive industries at the source, preventing it from being emitted into the air. LanzaTech then gives that captured carbon a new life as a clean replacement for virgin fossil carbon in everything from household cleaners and clothing fibers to packaging and fuels. By partnering with companies across the global supply chain like ArcelorMittal, Zara, H&M Move, Coty, On, and LanzaJet, LanzaTech is paving the way for a circular carbon economy. For more information about LanzaTech, visit https://lanzatech.com.

    About Woodside
    Woodside Energy is a global energy company, founded in Australia, working across three continents to produce oil and natural gas and pursue new energy opportunities. With a focused portfolio, Woodside is recognised for its world-class capabilities as an integrated upstream supplier of energy. Woodside’s proven track record and distinctive capabilities are underpinned by 70 years of experience.

    LanzaTech Contact:
    Investor Relations
    Kate Walsh, VP Investor Relations & Tax
    Investor.Relations@lanzatech.com

    Woodside Contact:
    Marcela Louzada
    M: +61 456 994 243
    E: investor@woodside.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Univest Securities, LLC Announces Closing of $8.0 Million Registered Follow-on Offering for its Client Elevai Labs Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), a member of FINRA and SIPC, and a full-service investment bank and securities broker-dealer firm based in New York, today announced the closing of registered follow-on offering (the “Offering”) of approximately $8.0 million for its client Elevai Labs Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB) (the “Company”), a pioneering force in medical aesthetics.

    The Offering was comprised of 28,571,425 shares of the Company’s common stock (or pre-funded warrants in lieu of shares of common stock). Each share of common stock or pre-funded warrant was sold with one Series A Warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.38 per share (the “Series A Warrants”) and one Series B Warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.38 per share or, pursuant to an alternative cashless exercise option, three shares of common stock (the “Series B Warrants” and, together with the Series A Warrants, the “Warrants”). The Series A Warrants will be exercisable beginning on the date of completion of the requisite waiting period following the filing of the Information Statement related to the approval by the stockholders of the Company (the “Initial Exercise Date” or “Effective Shareholder Approval Date”) of the issuance of shares upon exercise of the Warrants, among other things (the “Shareholder Approval”). The Series B Warrants will be exercisable beginning on the Effective Shareholder Approval Date. The Series A Warrants will expire on the five-year anniversary of the Initial Exercise Date and the Series B Warrants will expire on the two and one-half-year anniversary of the Initial Exercise Date. The purchase price of each share of common stock and accompanying Warrants was $0.28, and the purchase price of each pre-funded warrant and accompanying Warrants was equal to such price minus $0.0001.

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company was approximately $8 million.

    Univest Securities, LLC acted as the sole placement agent.

    The securities described above are being offered by the Company pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-281987) previously filed and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering were filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such 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. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    About Univest Securities, LLC

    Registered with FINRA since 1994, Univest Securities, LLC provides a wide variety of financial services to its institutional and retail clients globally including brokerage and execution services, sales and trading, market making, investment banking and advisory, wealth management. It strives to provide clients with value-add service and focuses on building long-term relationship with its clients. For more information, please visit: www.univest.us.

    About Elevai Labs Inc.

    Elevai Labs Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB) specializes in medical aesthetics and biopharmaceutical drug development, focusing on innovations for skin aesthetics and treatments tied to obesity and metabolic health. The Company operates a diverse portfolio of three wholly owned subsidiaries across the medical aesthetics and biopharmaceutical sectors, Elevai Skincare Inc., Elevai Biosciences Inc., and Elevai Research Inc. For more information please visit www.elevailabs.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Univest Securities LLC and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    For more information, please contact:

    Univest Securities, LLC
    Edric Guo
    Chief Executive Officer
    75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C
    New York, NY 10019
    Phone: (212) 343-8888
    Email: info@univest.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc. Announces 30th Consecutive Annual Increase in Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ARCHBOLD, Ohio, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc., (Nasdaq: FMAO) the holding company of F&M Bank, with total assets of $3.32 billion at June 30, 2024, today announced that it has approved the Company’s quarterly cash dividend of $0.22125 per share. The third-quarter dividend is payable on October 20, 2024, to shareholders of record as of October 4, 2024.

    The $0.22125 per share cash dividend reflects a $0.00125 per share increase in the quarterly dividend, representing the 30th consecutive annual increase in the Company’s regular dividend payment.

    Lars B. Eller, President and Chief Executive Officer stated, “I am proud that F&M has established one of the longest track records of consecutive dividend increases for publicly traded banks, reflecting F&M’s growth, strong capital levels, and profitable business model. F&M’s financial and operating strength has provided us with flexibility to return additional capital back to shareholders throughout various economic cycles. In fact, F&M’s annual dividend will have increased from $0.2375 in 2004 to $0.8825 in 2024 reflecting a 6.8% compound annual growth rate over this period.”

    About Farmers & Merchants State Bank:
    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: FMAO) is the holding company of F&M Bank, a local independent community bank that has been serving its communities since 1897. F&M Bank provides commercial banking, retail banking and other financial services. Our locations are in Butler, Champaign, Fulton, Defiance, Hancock, Henry, Lucas, Shelby, Williams, and Wood counties in Ohio. In Northeast Indiana, we have offices located in Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Jay, Steuben and Wells counties. The Michigan footprint includes Oakland County, and we have Loan Production Offices in West Bloomfield, Michigan; Muncie, Indiana; and Perrysburg and Bryan, Ohio.

    Safe Harbor statement
    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc. (“F&M”) wishes to take advantage of the Safe Harbor provisions included in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements by F&M, including management’s expectations and comments, may not be based on historical facts and are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Actual results could vary materially depending on risks and uncertainties inherent in general and local banking conditions, competitive factors specific to markets in which F&M and its subsidiaries operate, future interest rate levels, legislative and regulatory decisions, capital market conditions, or the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its impacts on our credit quality and business operations, as well as its impact on general economic and financial market conditions. F&M assumes no responsibility to update this information. For more details, please refer to F&M’s SEC filing, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Such filings can be viewed at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov or through F&M’s website www.fm.bank.

    Company Contact: Investor and Media Contact:
    Lars B. Eller
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Farmers & Merchants Bancorp, Inc.
    (419) 446-2501
    leller@fm.bank    		 Andrew M. Berger
    Managing Director
    SM Berger & Company, Inc.
    (216) 464-6400
    andrew@smberger.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: authID Appoints Identity Industry Veteran Erick Soto as Chief Product Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — authID Inc. (Nasdaq: AUID), a leading provider of biometric identity verification and authentication solutions, today announced the appointment of Erick Soto as Chief Product Officer.

    Mr. Soto, a seasoned product leader with over 15 years of industry experience, comes to authID after serving as a Chief Product Officer and adviser to successful identity verification providers, financial technology businesses, and neobanks. In his new role, Soto will oversee the evolution of the authID platform for biometrically onboarding and authenticating customers’ employees and consumers. He will direct a robust group of developers and designers working on the continuous improvement of authID’s Proof and Verified product lines to enhance performance, functionality and user experience.

    Most recently serving as the Chief Product Officer at Oxygen Health, a neobank and provider of health benefit plans, Soto has also held identity positions as the Chief Product Officer – New Digital Initiatives at BBVA, the global financial services group, and as the VP of Product at Socure, a provider of identity verification and fraud prevention solutions, where he partnered with authID Chief Executive Officer, Rhon Daguro, to build Socure into a unicorn valued at $4.5 billion.

    “We are excited to welcome a leader of Erick’s caliber to authID,” said Rhon Daguro. “authID will greatly benefit from Erick’s industry knowledge and experience, and it is our history of collaboration in shaping several of this industry’s most successful identity technologies that will ultimately drive increased value for our customers. I look forward to working closely with Erick again, as we continue to deliver solutions that provide our enterprise customers with absolute knowledge of who is behind the device, while also granting their users enhanced privacy protections.”

    authID continues to enhance its industry-leading processing time, liveness detection, and precision in differentiating legitimate users from fakes and frauds, and also provides cutting-edge capabilities for safeguarding the privacy of users’ biometric data. 

    “I am thrilled to join the authID team at this exciting time for the business,” said Erick Soto, Chief Product Officer. “I was drawn to authID because of the strength and precision of its fraud-fighting technology, and the potential to take the platform even further. Building on their years of success in delivering top-tier identity solutions gives me a strong foundation to drive further progress in identity verification and authentication. We face both known and emerging threats, and our customers rely on authID to stay ahead of these challenges while enabling them to safely onboard new users, secure accounts and protect privacy.”

    About authID
    authID (Nasdaq: AUID) ensures enterprises “Know Who’s Behind the Device™” for every customer or employee login and transaction through its easy-to-integrate, patented, biometric identity platform. authID quickly and accurately verifies a user’s identity and eliminates any assumption of ‘who’ is behind a device to prevent cybercriminals from compromising account openings or taking over accounts. Combining secure digital onboarding, FIDO2 passwordless login, and biometric authentication and account recovery, with a fast, accurate, user-friendly experience, authID delivers biometric identity processing in 700ms. Binding a biometric root of trust for each user to their account, authID stops fraud at onboarding, detects and stops deepfakes, eliminates password risks and costs, and provides the fastest, frictionless, and the more accurate user identity experience demanded by today’s digital ecosystem. Discover how authID can help your organization secure your workforce or consumer applications against identity fraud, cyberattacks and account takeover at www.authID.ai.

    Investor Relations Contacts

    Gateway Group, Inc.
    Cody Slach and Alex Thompson
    1-949-574-3860
    AUID@gateway-grp.com

    Investor-Relations@authid.ai

    Media Contact
    Walter Fowler
    NextTech Communications
    1-631-334-3864
    wfowler@nexttechcomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermap’s Team Chosen for Major NGA Data Contract

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luno A budget increased to $290 Million—10x original amount

    Team CACI named key partner for NGA’s commercial Earth observation program

    Intermap advances AI/ML innovation in geospatial intelligence

    DENVER, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intermap Technologies (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) (“Intermap” or the “Company”), a global leader in 3D geospatial products and intelligence solutions, today announced that, in partnership with CACI, Inc. – Federal (“CACI”), its team has been selected by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (“NGA”) as one of 10 qualified vendors for the Luno A program.

    Luno A, a new NGA initiative, focuses on providing continually updated, low-latency foundation data to support critical national security indicators. This program represents a significant advancement from the previous Economic Indicator Monitoring (EIM) effort, which began in 2021. Luno A aims to enhance U.S. National Security Community (NSC) insights by leveraging commercial satellite data to monitor a range of factors, including economic activities, military capabilities and environmental conditions. With recent advancements in computer vision and AI-driven geospatial intelligence, Luno A will integrate these technologies to provide real-time, actionable intelligence directly into NSC’s analytic workflows.

    The Luno A contract, valued at up to $290 million over five years, marks a substantial increase from the initial EIM budget of $29 million and the previously planned $60 million ceiling. This growth underscores the expanding role of unclassified computer vision capabilities within U.S. government operations.

    Further to the previous announcement on June 16, 2021, Team CACI’s next-generation platform will combine Intermap’s patented IRIS™ processing suite with CACI’s Feature Trace software. This integration will leverage advanced geospatial AI/ML models to deliver precise, near-real-time feature datasets, reflecting dynamic changes in land usage and infrastructure. This technology can be used standalone to generate insights for analysts as well as powering DEM and map sheet updates through change detection of manmade and natural features.

    This award builds on Intermap’s strategic partnerships with U.S. government agencies and their key suppliers, including NGA, the Pentagon, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Geological Survey, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Affairs and NASA.

    “We are pleased to partner with CACI on the Luno A program and contribute to advancing real-life, 3D computer vision capabilities for the NSC,” said Patrick A. Blott, Chairman and CEO of Intermap. “Our proprietary processing suite, combined with CACI’s technologies, will add context to analytic assessments and power unparalleled insight for national security.”

    Intermap Reader Advisory
    Certain information provided in this news release, including reference to revenue growth, constitutes forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate”, “expect”, “project”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “will be”, “will consider”, “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Although Intermap believes that these statements are based on information and assumptions which are current, reasonable and complete, these statements are necessarily subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Intermap’s forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, cash available to fund operations, availability of capital, revenue fluctuations, nature of government contracts, economic conditions, loss of key customers, retention and availability of executive talent, competing technologies, common share price volatility, loss of proprietary information, software functionality, internet and system infrastructure functionality, information technology security, breakdown of strategic alliances, and international and political considerations, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed Intermap’s Annual Information Form and other securities filings. While the Company makes these forward-looking statements in good faith, should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary significantly from those expected. Accordingly, no assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits that the Company will derive therefrom. All subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to Intermap or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements made herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities law.

    About Intermap Technologies
    Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Intermap (TSX: IMP; OTCQB: ITMSF) is a global leader in geospatial intelligence solutions, focusing on the creation and analysis of 3D terrain data to produce high-resolution thematic models. Through scientific analysis of geospatial information and patented sensors and processing technology, the Company provisions diverse, complementary, multi-source datasets to enable customers to seamlessly integrate geospatial intelligence into their workflows. Intermap’s 3D elevation data and software analytic capabilities enable global geospatial analysis through artificial intelligence and machine learning, providing customers with critical information to understand their terrain environment. By leveraging its proprietary archive of the world’s largest collection of multi-sensor global elevation data, the Company’s collection and processing capabilities provide multi-source 3D datasets and analytics at mission speed, enabling governments and companies to build and integrate geospatial foundation data with actionable insights. Applications for Intermap’s products and solutions include defense, aviation and UAV flight planning, flood and wildfire insurance, disaster mitigation, base mapping, environmental and renewable energy planning, telecommunications, engineering, critical infrastructure monitoring, hydrology, land management, oil and gas and transportation.

    For more information, please visit www.intermap.com or contact:
    Jennifer Bakken
    Executive Vice President and CFO
    CFO@intermap.com
    +1 (303) 708-0955

    Sean Peasgood
    Investor Relations
    Sean@SophicCapital.com
    +1 (647) 260-9266

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Surety Health Brings Profits to Corporations and Newfound NIL Funds to Universities and Colleges

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surety Health, Inc. has recently partnered with Florida Atlantic University (FAU), Boca Raton, FL, a Tier 1 National Research Institution by supporting the university’s athletic departments in the NCAA’s American Athletic Conference. This partnership will cause a percentage of corporate profits from other companies to help increase the university’s athletic department NIL initiative which refers to the rights of college athletes to control and profit from their name, image and likeness.

    J. Stephen Leach, CEO founded the company in 2022 through a vision to use a specific tax law in the American Healthcare Act of 2017 passed by the 115th congress to increase profits in excess of $100 million for employers in the Palm Beach County area. This partnership with Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is also causing greater exposure to some of the nation’s largest employers to help increase company profits while also benefiting their employees.

    Surety Health will also partner with a dozen or so other universities in a similar capacity to increase the company’s value by $1 billion per university for its shareholders.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Banco Itaú Chile Files Material Event Notice announcing the appointment of Director

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTIAGO, Chile, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BANCO ITAÚ CHILE (SSE: ITAUCL) announced that it filed today a Material Event Notice with the Chilean Commission for the Financial Market reporting that, at the ordinary session held on this date, the Board of Directors of Banco Itaú Chile (the “Bank”) learned about the resignation of Mr. Milton Maluhy Filho from the position of director of the Bank, which will take effect on September 30, 2024.

    Likewise, on this same date, the Board of Directors of the Bank agreed to appoint Mr. Gabriel Amado de Moura as his replacement, effective as of October 1, 2024, who will continue to serve in his role until the next Ordinary Shareholders Meeting, at which the final appointment will be made. In addition, as of the aforementioned date, Mr. Gabriel Amado de Moura will assume the position of vice-chairman of the Board of Directors of Banco Itaú Chile.

    The Material Event Notice is available on the company’s investor relations website at ir.itau.cl.

    Investor Relations – Banco Itaú Chile

    IR@itau.cl / ir.itau.cl

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Announces $5 Million Private Placement Priced At-The-Market Under Nasdaq Rules

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements for the issuance and sale of an aggregate of 1,176,471 shares of Class A common stock (or pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof), accompanying Series A warrants to purchase up to 1,176,471 shares of Class A common stock and accompanying short-term Series B warrants to purchase up to 1,176,471 shares of Class A common stock at a purchase price of $4.25 per share (or per pre-funded warrant in lieu thereof) and accompanying warrants in a private placement priced at-the-market under the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market. The Series A and the short-term Series B warrants will have an exercise price of $4.00 per share and will be exercisable immediately upon issuance. The Series A warrants will expire five years from the issuance date and the short-term Series B warrants will expire 18 months from the issuance date. The closing of the offering is expected to occur on or about September 26, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    H.C. Wainwright & Co. is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the offering.

    The gross proceeds from the offering are expected to be approximately $5 million, prior to deducting placement agent’s fees and other offering expenses payable by the Company. Banzai intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to pay off in full its outstanding credit facility with Yorkville Advisors and for working capital and other general corporate purposes.

    The securities described above are being offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and/or Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of Class A common stock underlying the warrants, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the warrants and underlying shares of Class A common stock may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws. Pursuant to a registration rights agreement with investors, the Company has agreed to file a resale registration statement covering the securities described above.

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

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers achieve their mission, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Banzai customers include Square, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, Doodle and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): ability to consummation of the private placement, the satisfaction of the closing conditions of the private placement and the use of proceeds therefrom as well as future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release, except as required by law.

    Investor Contacts:
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Rachel Meyrowitz
    Director, Demand Generation, Banzai
    rachel.meyrowitz@banzai.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BGHL (EUR): NAV(s)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                          BOUSSARD & GAVAUDAN HOLDING LIMITED

    Ordinary Shares

    The Directors of Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited would like to announce the following information for the Company.

    Close of business 24 Sep 2024.

    Estimated NAV

      Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Estimated NAV €    28.5679 £    25.6374
    Estimated MTD return     -0.53 %     -0.36 %
    Estimated YTD return      3.70 %      4.34 %
    Estimated ITD return    185.68 %    156.37 %

    NAV and returns are calculated net of management and performance fees

    Market information

    Euro Shares Amsterdam (AEX) London (LSE)
    Market Close €    27.40 N/A
    Premium/discount to estimated NAV     -4.09 % N/A
         
    Sterling Shares Amsterdam (AEX) London (LSE)
    Market Close N/A GBX 2,360.00
    Premium/discount to estimated NAV N/A     -7.95 %

    Transactions in own securities purchased into treasury

    Ordinary Shares Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Number of shares N/A N/A
    Average Price N/A N/A
    Range of Price N/A N/A

                                               

    Liquidity Enhancement Agreement Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Number of shares N/A N/A
    Average Price N/A N/A

    BGHL Capital

    BGHL Ordinary Shares Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Shares Outstanding   12,299,516      123,090
    Held in treasury N/A N/A
    Shares Issued   12,299,516      123,090

    Estimated BG Fund NAV

    Class B Euro Shares (estimated) €   258.1153
    Class GBP A Shares (estimated) £   137.3552

    The Class B Euro Shares of BG Fund are not subject to investment manager fees, as the Investment Manager receives management fees and performance fees in respect of its role as Investment Manager of BGHL.

    For further information please contact:

    Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management, LLP.
    Emmanuel Gavaudan +44 (0) 20 3751 5389 Email : info@bgam-uk.com

    The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has received the necessary approval of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission and the States of Guernsey Policy Council. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the “Shares”) are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities.

    This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

    Neither the Company nor BG Fund ICAV has been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.

    You should always bear in mind that:

    • all investment is subject to risk;
    • results in the past are no guarantee of future results;
    • the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and
    • if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

    This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sampo plc’s share buybacks 24 September 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sampo plc, stock exchange release, 25 September 2024 at 8:30 am EEST

    Sampo plc’s share buybacks 24 September 2024

    On 24 September 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)
      3,541 41.49 AQEU        
      43,470 41.45 CEUX
      1,127 41.51 TQEX
      43,087 41.46 XHEL
    TOTAL 91,225 41.46  

    *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 7,312,345 Sampo A shares representing 1.33 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
    www.sampo.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BGHL (GBP): NAV(s)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                          BOUSSARD & GAVAUDAN HOLDING LIMITED

    Ordinary Shares

    The Directors of Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited would like to announce the following information for the Company.

    Close of business 24 Sep 2024.

    Estimated NAV

      Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Estimated NAV €    28.5679 £    25.6374
    Estimated MTD return     -0.53 %     -0.36 %
    Estimated YTD return      3.70 %      4.34 %
    Estimated ITD return    185.68 %    156.37 %

    NAV and returns are calculated net of management and performance fees

    Market information

    Euro Shares Amsterdam (AEX) London (LSE)
    Market Close €    27.40 N/A
    Premium/discount to estimated NAV     -4.09 % N/A
         
    Sterling Shares Amsterdam (AEX) London (LSE)
    Market Close N/A GBX 2,360.00
    Premium/discount to estimated NAV N/A     -7.95 %

    Transactions in own securities purchased into treasury

    Ordinary Shares Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Number of shares N/A N/A
    Average Price N/A N/A
    Range of Price N/A N/A

                                               

    Liquidity Enhancement Agreement Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Number of shares N/A N/A
    Average Price N/A N/A

    BGHL Capital

    BGHL Ordinary Shares Euro Shares Sterling Shares
    Shares Outstanding   12,299,516      123,090
    Held in treasury N/A N/A
    Shares Issued   12,299,516      123,090

    Estimated BG Fund NAV

    Class B Euro Shares (estimated) €   258.1153
    Class GBP A Shares (estimated) £   137.3552

    The Class B Euro Shares of BG Fund are not subject to investment manager fees, as the Investment Manager receives management fees and performance fees in respect of its role as Investment Manager of BGHL.

    For further information please contact:

    Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management, LLP.
    Emmanuel Gavaudan +44 (0) 20 3751 5389 Email : info@bgam-uk.com

    The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has received the necessary approval of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission and the States of Guernsey Policy Council. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the “Shares”) are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities.

    This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

    Neither the Company nor BG Fund ICAV has been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.

    You should always bear in mind that:

    • all investment is subject to risk;
    • results in the past are no guarantee of future results;
    • the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and
    • if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

    This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: RIBER: 2024 first-half earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    2024 first-half earnings

    • Solid half-year revenues growth (+13%)
    • Gross margin up by 21% and operating income at breakeven
    • Net profit of €0.2m despite the lower seasonal revenues
    • Strong increase in order book at June 30, 2024 (+18%), reaching €36.0m
    • Outlook confirmed: revenues exceeding €40m with growth in earnings expected for the full year

    Bezons, September 25, 2024 – 8:00am – RIBER, a global market leader for semiconductor industry equipment, is releasing its earnings for the first half of 2024.

    (€m) H1 2024 H1 2023 Change
    Revenues
    Systems revenues
    Services and accessories revenues    		 13.7
    9.4
    4.3    		 12.2
    8.5
    3.6    		 +13 %
    +10 %
    +19 %
    Gross margin
    % of revenues    		 4.8
    34.8 %    		 3.9
    32.3 %    		 +21 %
    +2,5 pts
    Operating income
    % of revenues    		 (0.0)
    (0.2 %)    		 (1.1)
    (9.3 %)    		 +97 %
    +9,1 pts
    Net income
    % of revenues    		 0.2
    1.2 %    		 (1.2)
    (10.2 %)    		 +113 %
    +11,4 pts

    Key developments

    In the first half of 2024, despite an uncertain macroeconomic environment, RIBER achieved solid business growth. This performance reflects its strong position in the MBE market, driven by a sharp rise in orders during the first half, with 8 systems ordered for both research and industrial production. Additionally, the services and accessories business saw a significant upturn compared to a favourable base.

    Revenues

    In this context, revenues for the first half of 2024 came to €13.7m, up +13% compared with the first half of 2023. Systems revenues increased by +10% to €9.4m, while services and accessories revenues were up by +19% to €4.3m.

    Earnings

    The company points out that first-half earnings cannot be extrapolated over the full year due to the lower seasonality of revenues in the first half.

    The first-half gross margin was €4.8m, representing 34.8% of revenues, compared to 32.3% for the first half of 2023.

    Operating profit improved by €1.1m, reaching breakeven in the first half of 2024.

    Net income was positive at €0.2m, compared to a loss of €1.2m for the first half of 2023. This includes net financial income of €0.2m.

    Cash flow and balance sheet

    At the end of June 2024, the cash position was positive at €7.1m, compared to €9.7m at December 31, 2023, and €8.3m at June 30, 2023.

    Shareholders’ equity at end-June 2024 totaled €19.6m, compared to €21.2m at December 31, 2023, primarily taking into account the half-year earnings and the distribution to shareholders from the issue premium paid out in June.

    Order book

    The order book at June 30, 2024 totaled €36.0m, up +18% compared with June 30, 2023. System orders, amounted to €30.2m (+27%), based on 12 machines, including 7 production machines. Orders for services and accessories (€5.8m) are down -14%.
    This order book does not include the order announced in August 2024 for 1 research machine.

    Outlook

    Given the current orders scheduled for delivery in 2024 and the opportunities for its systems, services and accessories, RIBER expects full-year revenues exceeding €40m, along with further improvements in earnings.

    In a semiconductor market driven by innovation, the company expects new orders in the fourth quarter.

    Next date: 2024 third-quarter revenues on October 30, 2024, before start of trading.

    The condensed consolidated half-year accounts have not been subject to an audit or a limited review by the statutory auditors. They were approved by the Board of Directors on September 24, 2024. The half-year financial report is available in French on the company website (www.riber.com).

    About RIBER

    Founded in 1964, RIBER is the global market leader for MBE – molecular beam epitaxy – equipment. It designs and produces equipment for the semiconductor industry, and provides scientific and technical support for its clients (hardware and software), maintaining their equipment and optimizing their performance and output levels.
    Accelerating the performance of electronics, RIBER’s equipment performs an essential role in the development of advanced semiconductor systems that are used in numerous applications, from information technologies to photonics (lasers, sensors, etc.), 5G telecommunications networks and research, including quantum computing.

    RIBER is a BPI France-approved innovative company and is listed on the Euronext Growth Paris market (ISIN: FR0000075954).
    www.riber.com

    Contacts

    RIBER : Annie Geoffroy| tel: +33 (0)1 39 96 65 00 | invest@riber.com

    CALYPTUS : Cyril Combe | tel: +33 (0)1 53 65 68 68 | cyril.combe@calyptus.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE Announces August 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 August Monthly NAV Estimate

    25 September 2024

    NB Private Equity Partners (NBPE), the $1.3bn1, FTSE 250, listed private equity investment company managed by Neuberger Berman, today announces its 31 August 2024 monthly NAV estimate.

    NAV Highlights (31 August 2024)

    • NAV per share was $27.44 (£20.88), a total return of 0.1% in the month
    • Performance driven by 1.4% quarterly uplift in private company valuations (ex-FX), offset by negative FX adjustments of 0.2%
    • Year to date NAV TR of 1.2%
    • $73 million invested in new and follow on investments year to date
    • $390 million of available liquidity at 31 August 2024
    • 2H 2024 dividend of $0.47 paid on 30 August 2024
    • Annualised dividend yield at  31 August 2024 NAV of 3.4%; annualised share price yield is 4.5% based on the closing share price of £15.92 on 31 August 2024
    As of 31 August 2024 YTD 1 Year 3 years 5 years 10 years
    NAV TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 1.2% 1.7% 6.8%
    2.2%    		 72.8%
    11.6%    		 177.1%
    10.7%
    MSCI World TR (USD)*
    Annualised    		 17.1% 25.0% 23.8%
    7.4%    		 89.7%
    13.7%    		 162.9%
    10.1%
    Share price TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 (0.3%) 8.1% 12.0%
    3.8%    		 77.1%
    12.1%    		 263.0%
    13.8%
    FTSE All-Share TR (GBP)*
    Annualised    		 11.3% 17.0% 24.4%
    7.5%    		 37.9%
    6.6%    		 80.9%
    6.1%

    *Reflects cumulative returns over the time periods shown and are not annualised.

    Portfolio Update to 31 August 2024

    Following the 1H private portfolio valuation increases, movements in public holdings and FX in July and August, NBPE’s NAV TR year to date was 1.2%.

    NAV performance during the month driven by:

    • 0.1% NAV increase ($1 million) from postive FX movements
    • 0.5% NAV increase ($7 million) from the value of quoted holdings (which now constitute 7% 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

    • $5 million received during the month and a further $6 million expected in the coming months from the announced realisation of Syniti
    • $158 million of realisations received year to date, driven by Action and previously announced sales of Cotiviti, Melissa & Doug, FV Hospital and Safefleet as well as partial sales of public stock and continued realisations from the legacy income investment portfolio

    $390 million of total liquidity at 31 August 2024

    • $180 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

    $0.47 semi annual dividend paid on 30 August 2024

    • Bringing total dividends paid to shareholders since 2013 to approximately $360 million

    Portfolio Valuation

    The fair value of NBPE’s portfolio as of 31 August 2024 was based on the following information:

    • 7% of the portfolio was valued as of 31 August 2024
      • 7% in public securities
    • 93% of the portfolio was valued as of 30 June 2024
      • 92% 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 31 August 2024)

    Company Name Vintage Lead Sponsor Sector Fair Value ($m) % of FV
    Action 2020 3i Consumer                        68.3 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                        37.2 2.9%
    True Potential 2022 Cinven Financial Services                        35.5 2.8%
    GFL (NYSE: GFL) 2018 BC Partners Business Services                        33.8 2.7%
    Kroll 2020 Further Global / Stone Point Financial Services                        31.4 2.5%
    Marquee Brands 2014 Neuberger Berman Consumer                        30.8 2.4%
    Staples 2017 Sycamore Partners Business Services                        30.7 2.4%
    Constellation Automotive 2019 TDR Capital Business Services                        30.6 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                        25.6 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%
    AutoStore (OB.AUTO) 2019 THL Industrials                        22.2 1.7%
     

    Excelitas

    		  

    2022

    		  

    AEA Investors

    		  

    Industrials

    		                        21.9  

    1.7%
    Qpark 2017 KKR Transportation                        21.3 1.7%
    Exact 2019 KKR Technology / IT                        20.0 1.6%
    Renaissance Learning 2018 Francisco Partners Technology / IT                        19.4 1.5%
    Bylight 2017 Sagewind Partners Technology / IT                        18.6 1.5%
    Total Top 30 Investments                            $940.8 74.0%

    *Undisclosed company due to confidentiality provisions.

    Geography % of Portfolio
    North America 77%
    Europe 22%
    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 13%
    Healthcare 8%
    Other 4%
    Energy 1%
    Total Portfolio 100%
       
    Vintage Year % of Portfolio
    2016 & Earlier 11%
    2017 19%
    2018 15%
    2019 14%
    2020 12%
    2021 17%
    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 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.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –