Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Juan Ciscomani is leading a bipartisan effort to get the U.S. Army to review regulations that prevent eligible veterans and service members from receiving one of our nation’s most distinguished military honors, the Purple Heart.
A Purple Heart is given to current and former members of the Armed Forces who’ve been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving. But a gap in the regulations has barred thousands from receiving the honor, including at least one in Ciscomani’s 6th Congressional District.
Ciscomani meets with the Military Order of the Purple Heart
“It simply isn’t fair,” said Ciscomani, a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “I’ve personally met an Iraq War veteran who nearly gave his life serving our country and is prevented from even being considered for a Purple Heart because of regulations that may not reflect the realities of combat. This is wrong and it needs to change.”
Ciscomani and nine other members of Congress are urging Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll to review the regulations to provide greater flexibility when considering Purple Heart applications.
In a March 28 letter to Driscoll, the lawmakers wrote that veterans and service members who’ve been diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries have been denied a Purple Heart because they lack proper documentation.
The lawmakers wrote, “While we recognize the difficulty in establishing clear guidelines for every combat scenario, greater flexibility is urgently needed. The Army’s appeals process, which we fully support, can take over a year to resolve—an unacceptably long wait for veterans seeking proper recognition of their injuries.”
The Purple Heart is the oldest military award presented to American service members. It bears the likeness of President George Washington, who first presented an early version of the award in 1782. It was redesigned in 1932 at the direction of Gen. Douglas MacArthur.
According to Army Regulation 600-8-22, a Purple Heart can be presented to an individual who suffered a wound, injury, or death as a result of enemy or hostile act, international terrorist attack, or friendly fire. The individual must have also received treatment by medical officials and have official records of medical treatment. Unfortunately, that last requirement does not account for situations where a medical officer may not be present to provide treatment.
Joining Ciscomani in signing the letter are Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Don Davis (D-NC), Jen Kiggans (R-VA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), and Mike Haridopolos (R-FL).
The full text of the letter can be viewed here and below:
Dear Sec. Driscoll:
We are writing to express our concern regarding current Army regulations that areinhibiting veterans and service members nationwide from receiving proper consideration for aPurple Heart decoration from the United States Army. As you know, this honor is awarded tothose who have sacrificed greatly in defense of our country and our freedoms, and therefore wetake great care to ensure its proper consideration.
Specifically, we have concerns with Army Regulation 600-8-22, which governs the eligibility criteria to award the Purple Heart to individuals injured in the line of duty and its related impact on service members who were unable to be treated by a medical officer at the time of their injury. We have met with those whose vehicles were struck by IEDs or exposed to concussive blasts, resulting in diagnosed traumatic brain injury (TBI), and despite following the proper channels, their applications for a Purple Heart have been denied due to a lack of contemporaneous documentation, often through no fault of their own.
The regulation requires that each approved award of the Purple Heart must meet the following requirements: a) a wound, injury, or death as a result of enemy or hostile act, international terrorist attack, or friendly fire and b) treatment by medical officials and official records of said medical treatment. Unfortunately, the latter requirement does not account for the realities of combat, particularly in incidents where a medical officer may not have been present to provide treatment. Oftentimes, soldiers stationed at forward operating bases with limited medical capabilities may not receive treatment until they return to base or redeploy.
Further, in some cases service members are unaware that they need referrals for TBI treatment documented in their health records, creating significant barriers when applying for a Purple Heart. The nature of blast injuries means that symptoms do not always manifest immediately, making it even more difficult to obtain proper documentation at the time of the incident. Yet, these injuries have long-term consequences, affecting not only the individual’s health but also their ability to access care and benefits after service.
Additionally, other Army processes—such as referral to the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB)—or external entities like the VA have documented TBI diagnoses as a result of combat, medical retirements, and evidence of referrals for treatment for a veteran or service member, but the Department of the Army does not allow for the consideration of these forms of record. We believe that this evidence should be considered when determining initial Purple Heart eligibility, and yet they are often overlooked.
While we recognize the difficulty in establishing clear guidelines for every combat scenario, greater flexibility is urgently needed. The Army’s appeals process, which we fully support, can take over a year to resolve—an unacceptably long wait for veterans seeking proper recognition of their injuries. During this time, many of these veterans are left in limbo, waiting for decisions that impact not only their recognition of service but also their long-term well-being. Our offices stand ready to assist in expediting these appeals and advocating for regulatory adjustments to reduce unnecessary delays.
We urge you to review these regulations with partners in the Department of Veterans Affairs and look forward to your timely reply on how we can partner to move this process forward.
THE final phase of maintenance and improvements to a residential road in Leicester’s West End will begin next week.
Leicester City Council will begin work to resurface Western Road – between its junctions with Braunstone Gate and Paton Street – from Wednesday 9 April.
The work will require the stretch of road to be closed to traffic for up to nine days while work is carried out. A short, well-signposted diversion will be place. Parking will also be suspended.
Access to properties and businesses will be maintained for deliveries.
Work will also be carried out at the junction of Western Road and Briton Street, where adjustments will be made to give priority to vehicles and cycles from Briton Street.
This will be the final phase of a £700,000 scheme that has improved footpaths along the length of the road and removed dropped kerbs that cut across the pavement, but which no longer provide access to parking or loading areas. Carriageway drainage improvements have also been carried out.
Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “The city’s road network needs regular maintenance and repairs to ensure it can cope with modern demands.
“The work on Western Road will help improve a busy residential street and important local route to ensure it’s in good shape for years to come. This will benefit everyone who uses it.
“The final phase of resurfacing will mean some disruption. While the road is closed for a few days, a clearly signposted diversion will be in place and the team will be working hard to keep disruption to a minimum.”
The Western Road scheme is funded as part of the Connecting Leicester programme which is supported by the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
LOS ANGELES—A federal grand jury returned an indictment Monday charging four individuals for their alleged involvement in an armed robbery spree in Oxnard, California.
The following defendants are charged with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act):
Erasmo Jose Corral, 19, of Oxnard;
Wendy Xitlali Gutierrez, 21 , of Oxnard
Sylvia Martinez, 51 , of Oxnard and
Ramon Olvera, 29, of Oxnard
According to the indictment, on January 4, 2025, Corral, Gutierrez, Martinez, and Olvera allegedly robbed a The Home Depot store in Oxnard, California and three days later, robbed a Walmart. According to court documents, on both occasions, Corral brandished a handgun and aimed it at store employees, as he and his co-conspirators fled with stolen items.
Following the Walmart robbery on January 7, officers with the Oxnard Police Department located the suspects and conducted a traffic stop, resulting in the arrest of Corral and Gutierrez. During the search, officers reportedly discovered a loaded handgun in the vehicle that matched the handgun allegedly used in the robberies. Corral is not legally permitted to possess a firearm and ammunition because he was previously convicted of a felony and was on probation at the time of his arrest. Martinez and Olvera were arrested by officers with the Oxnard Police Department on March 29th and they were brought into federal custody yesterday.
Corral was also charged with one count for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, Corral, Gutierrez, Martinez, and Olvera face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each Hobbs Act robbery count. Corral faces additional seven-year consecutive sentences for allegedly brandishing a firearm during each robbery, a statutory maximum of 15 years for felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and a statutory maximum 40 years for possession with intent to distribute at least 5 grams of methamphetamine. All defendants in this case are expected to remain in custody pending trial.
The investigation is being conducted by the Ventura County Violent Crime Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Oxnard Police Department, and the Port Hueneme Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Matt Coe-Odess is prosecuting this case.
Television Appearances and Potential Investor Meeting at Mar-a-Lago Signal Big Moves for the Nations Fast-Growing Beer Brand, American Rebel Light Beer.
Nashville, TN, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is excited to announce that its CEO Andy Ross will appear on two south Florida morning shows on NBC-TV Channel 5 West Palm Beach and 39 WSFL – Home of the Florida Panthers. Andy’s segments will be taped for airing later in the week. Andy will also meet with potential investors at Mar-a-Lago.
Florida: A Cornerstone in American Rebel Beer’s Strategic Growth and CEO’s Investor Relations Outreach
“I’m looking forward to getting back to south Florida to meet with potential investors and tell the American Rebel story,” said Andy Ross. “Maybe second only to New York, south Florida is home to many important investor contacts for American Rebel and the opportunity to meet with potential investors at Mar-a-Lago will be a great experience.”
“Sharing the American Rebel story on television is a great way to expand American Rebel awareness with potential customers and grow our distribution network,” continued Andy Ross. “Florida is one of our next states to add to our rapidly growing list of states where American Rebel Beer is available. We’re looking forward to opening Florida in the next couple of months as a lot of beer is sold in Florida.”
“Earlier this year I appeared on the ABC-TV outlet in Tampa on their morning show Morning Blend and later that week performed a concert at the Bradenton Motorsports Park at the conclusion of the SCAG Power Equipment Pro Shootout,” said Andy Ross. “Florida is going to be a great state for American Rebel Beer since Florida is a great racing state and our sponsorship of the Matt Hagan Funny Car for Tony Stewart Racing opens a lot of doors for American Rebel Beer.”
Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.
American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.
About Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) Nitro
As tenacious as Stewart is in the cockpit of a racecar, he’s proven equally adept at providing cars and equipment for racing’s elite. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion can also list 31 owners’ titles to his resume, from NASCAR to USAC to the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series. In 2023 Stewart earned his 31st owner title when Matt Hagan and the TSR Funny Car team earned the championship on November 11th. His team, Tony Stewart Racing, fields a powerhouse lineup in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series with Tony in Top Fuel and Matt Hagan in Funny Car. After more than four decades of racing around in circles, Stewart has embarked on a straight and narrow path, albeit at more than 300 mph. For more information on TSR Nitro go to tsrnitro.com.
About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.
American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit www.americanrebel.com and www.americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit www.americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
CIT’s Electric Vehicle Certificate III is the first course of its kind in Australia.
Canberra is transitioning away from the use of fossil fuels and towards electrification, which means the future is looking different for Canberrans – particularly our tradies.
According to ACT Government modelling, Canberra will need at least 1,290 extra electricians and 270 more electrical engineers before 2045.
CIT is helping to ensure that the ACT has people who have the skills to install technology in homes and businesses. The institution is providing important future skills development, particularly in the electrical trades, to prevent local and national skills shortages.
“In Canberra, we have the biggest concentration of electric vehicles to people,” Richard Lindsay, CIT automotive teacher and national VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year 2022, said.
“What that means is that the demand on the servicing industry in Canberra is growing higher and higher by the month.
“Being at the forefront of the transition with the Electric Vehicle Certificate III is definitely helping to make sure that the industry is ready for the increase in customer demand that is coming through,” Richard said.
Until this year, CIT was the only training organisation in Australia delivering this course. Richard says that it is a point of pride for both students and the staff at CIT.
“For the students going through the brand-new Certificate III, the thought of being some of the first fully qualified electric vehicle technicians in Australia is a huge thing for their status in the automotive industry. They’re going to be leaders in their field,” he said.
The course is attracting attention from a broad range of students.
“From an apprentice point of view, we’re seeing a big increase in interest, especially from students who may not have thought about a mechanical path previously,” Richard said.
“Because the vehicles are so autonomous these days with the way they’re working, it’s definitely taking some more interest from the more tech-savvy kids that would have normally gravitated towards a gaming or IT path.”
The ACT Government will propose to the Commonwealth that a new centre of excellence be established at CIT Fyshwick. The centre would expand CIT’s Electric Vehicle Training Centre to train more EV automotive technicians.
Extra funding will support the feasibility of a broader Future Energy Skills Hub at CIT which will incorporate the centre of excellence and support the expansion of training in electrotechnology.
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Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
NASHVILLE – On Monday, March 31, 2025, defendant Brian Baker, 53, of Mount Juliet, Tenn., pled guilty to all charges against him for a wire fraud and money laundering scheme to defraud an automobile auction business in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The other co-defendants, Stephanie Louise Baker, 54, of Mount Juliet, Tenn. and Jerry W. Hutchins, 50, of Dowelltown, Tenn., each pled guilty last week to all charges against them stemming from their involvement in the same wire fraud and money laundering scheme.
“I commend the effort of the prosecutors from our office who are holding these thieves accountable for their crimes,” said Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. “We will continue to tirelessly seek justice for those affected by economic crimes here in our community.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to unraveling intricate financial transactions and money laundering schemes where individuals attempt to conceal the original source of their money,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. “IRS Criminal Investigation, along with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney’s Office, will vigorously pursue those individuals who willfully try to enrich themselves by fraudulent means.”
“These defendants used fake transactions to operate a wire fraud and money laundering scheme to illegally enrich themselves,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “The FBI remains vigilant in the fight against fraud and will bring those who cheat and steal to justice.”
The federal indictment, returned by the grand jury in October 2023, had charged Stephanie Baker and Brian Baker, who are married, and Hutchins with a wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. The indictment also charged all three defendants with substantive offenses for acts of money laundering. According to the indictment, between February 2017 and November 2018, Stephanie Baker was the General Manager of the Dealers Auto Auction Group’s Murfreesboro auction location. Brian Baker and Jerry Hutchins each owned and operated used car dealerships and did business at the auction. The defendants devised a scheme to defraud Dealers Auto Auction Group, LLC by creating fake transactions to make it appear that the defendants’ businesses had sold cars at the auction and were entitled to receive funds from Dealers Auto Auction Group, when in fact the defendants had not sold vehicles at the auction. Based on the fake transactions, Stephanie Baker caused Dealers Auto Auction Group to issue checks to Brian Baker’s and Hutchins’ businesses. Then, on a rolling basis each month, the defendants would create additional fake transactions using the same vehicles in order to conceal the original fraud and avoid detection. Brian Baker and Hutchins then converted proceeds of the fraud scheme for their own personal use and benefit.
As a result of this scheme, the defendants defrauded Dealers Auto Auction Group of more than $2 million.
The three defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on September 11, 2025. The defendants face up to 20 years in prison for the wire fraud conspiracy, the money laundering conspiracy, and the concealment money laundering offenses, and up to 10 years in prison for domestic transaction money laundering. The indictment also contains a forfeiture allegation in which the government seeks to forfeit any property derived from the proceeds of the crimes, including a money judgment in the amount of at least $2,041,170 from Stephanie Baker, $1,357,310 from Brian Baker, and $683,830 from Jerry Hutchins.
This case was investigated by the IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chris Suedekum and Nani M. Gilkerson are prosecuting the case.
Forty-four-year-old Darryl Dyson was arrested by Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP on March 28, 2025, for possession of opioids after crashing a vehicle in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
At approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, police on patrol came upon a single-vehicle crash on Cabot Crescent. Dyson, who was operating a vehicle while suspended, was found in possession of a quantity of suspected morphine pills and nearly $3000.00 cash.
He attended court on March 31, 2025, and was released on a number of conditions. Dyson is charged with the following criminal offences:
Possession of a controlled substance
Failure to comply with a release order
Operating a vehicle with a suspended licence
The investigation is continuing with other charges possible. Dyson’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 15, 2025.
RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.
EVANSVILLE— Marquell T. Lockridge, 26, of Evansville, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to illegal possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.
According to court documents, on November 1, 2024, at approximately 3:51 a.m., officers with the Evansville Police Department were dispatched to a Circle K gas station on a report of a disturbance in the parking lot. When officers arrived on scene, a woman in the parking lot claimed that Marquell Lockridge had pulled out a gun and pointed it at her.
Lockridge saw the officers walk toward him to investigate and jumped into his vehicle to flee the scene. However, he was unable to shift the car into drive. Officers commanded Lockridge to step out of the car. He eventually exited the vehicle, but then began running on foot and was quickly tased and arrested.
While officers were applying the handcuffs, Lockridge admitted that he had a loaded gun inside the front of his underwear. During a search of his person, officers located a plastic corner bag containing Oxycodone pills and approximately $20,227 in cash.
Lockridge has been previously convicted of multiple crimes, including misdemeanor domestic battery in 2019, felony pointing a firearm at another in 2019, and felony theft of a firearm in 2022. These prior felony convictions prohibit him from ever legally possessing a firearm again.
“Illegally armed felons are a preventable source of the gun violence that threatens our neighborhoods and takes far too many lives,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “A successful return to the community from prison requires compliance with the law, including never again possessing a gun. I commend the ATF and Evansville Police Department for keeping the community safe by getting this felon off the streets.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Evansville Police Department investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman.
Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case.
NASHVILLE – Isaiah Taivon Newsom a/k/a Isaiah Taivon Porterfield, 25, of Nashville, has been charged by criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee.
“Dangerous felons who possess firearms and put police officers at risk will face swift justice,” said Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire. “We will not tolerate potential violence against first responders and will seek full accountability for those putting our first responders in danger.”
According to court documents, on March 25, 2025, detectives with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department were conducting covert surveillance near an address on Nashboro Boulevard. Detectives were parked in their unmarked police vehicles in several different areas of the apartment complex. One detective observed three people walk out of the breezeway near unit B, with one, later identified as Newsom, carrying what appeared to be a rifle.
As they walked through the apartment complex, Newsom walked about fifteen feet away from another detective’s unmarked vehicle, stood near a tree, raised the rifle to his shoulder and pointed it at the detective, who was still in his vehicle. As the detective relayed Newsom’s actions to the other detectives in the area and they discussed a plan of action over the radio, Newsom walked past the front of the detective’s vehicle towards the passenger side and again pointed the rifle at the detective.
As other detectives arrived in the area, Newsom moved towards the front of the detective’s vehicle and pointed the rifle directly at the detective. Although he was in an unmarked car, the detective was wearing a tactical vest with patches indicating he was a law enforcement officer, and he was equipped with a body worn camera. The detective activated his blue lights and a short burst of the siren, as he exited the vehicle and announced himself as a police officer. Newsom and the other two people then ran from the area. Detectives pursued Newsom on foot as he ran across a field and entered the wood line. Detectives set up a perimeter and, with the assistance of a K9 unit and the Metro Nashville Police Department aviation unit, took Newsom into custody.
Detectives searched Newsom’s flight path and located a Windham Weaponry, WW-15, .223/5.56 caliber rifle which was later found to have been reported stolen from a Williamson County Sheriff’s Office marked patrol vehicle. After being advised of his Miranda rights, Newsom admitted to detectives that he had possessed the rifle.
Newsom had previously been convicted of two counts of aggravated robbery and two counts of felony theft in Shelby County, Tennessee. Newsom served more than seven years in the Tennessee Department of Correction for his felony convictions.
If convicted, Newsom faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel M. Stephens is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A complaint is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE BY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
1. KEY INFORMATION
(a) Full name of discloser:
Invesco Ltd.
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
Alphawave IP Group plc
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
01.04.2025
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
Yes; Qualcomm Incorporated
2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a) Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
GBP 1p ordinary GB00BNDRMJ14
Interests
Short positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
10,696
0.00
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:
10,696
0.00
Class of relevant security:
Senior unsecured convertible bond XS2962835257
Interests
Short positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
0
0.00
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:
0
0.00
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b) Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3. DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a) Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product description e.g. CFD
Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
(d) Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion
Details
Price per unit (if applicable)
4. OTHER INFORMATION
(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
(b) Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
(c) Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure:
02.04.2025
Contact name:
Philippa Holmes
Telephone number*:
+441491417447
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
*If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.
OPENING POSITION DISCLOSUREBY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
1.
KEY INFORMATION
(a)
Full name of discloser:
Invesco Ltd.
(b)
Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c)
Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
Qualcomm Incorporated
(d)
If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e)
Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
01.04.2025
(f)
In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
Alphawave IP Group plc
2.
POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a)
Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Interests
Short Positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1)
Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
32,469,980
2.93
6,705
0.00
(2)
Cash-settled derivatives:
(3)
Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
Total
32,469,980
2.93
6,705
0.00
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b)
Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3.
DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a)
Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Purchase
2,386
151.40 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Purchase
2,929
152.49 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Purchase
269
152.50 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Purchase
888
153.05 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Sale
591
153.05 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Sale
33
152.90 USD
USD 0.0001 common US7475251036
Short Sale
59
151.58 USD
(b)
Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product descriptione.g. CFD
Nature of dealinge.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealinge.g. subscription, conversion
Details
Price per unit (if applicable)
4.
OTHER INFORMATION
(a)
Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
(b)
Agreements, arrangements, or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure
02.04.2025
Contact name
Philippa Holmes
Telephone number
+441491417447
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website atwww.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Suleman Lazarus, Visiting Fellow, Mannheim Centre for Criminology, London School of Economics and Political Science
This digital infrastructure includes reliable access to electricity and the internet, as well as digital tools such as proxy servers, spoofing software, phishing kits and virtual private networks. Those involved must possess technical competencies in areas like web development, social engineering and systems maintenance, skills that are critical for sustaining fraudulent operations behind the scenes.
Research on cybercrime is expanding in west Africa, particularly studies of Nigeria and Ghana. But Cameroon is understudied. This gap in research has obscured a pervasive problem in Cameroon: website developers who create digital storefronts for fraudsters.
Rather than focusing on the fraudsters themselves, our study examined the infrastructure that enables this fraud to happen and the hidden networks of actors who make deception possible. Our research sheds light on a little-known group of enablers: website developers in anglophone Cameroon who knowingly build fake shopping websites.
Through interviews with 14 website developers engaged in this illicit trade, we explored the socio-economic and political forces that drive their participation.
Our findings showed that a mix of economic hardship, social norms and cultural beliefs drive fraud enablement in Cameroon. Our study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of cybercrime. The website developers in Cameroon do not fit the typical profile of a fraudster. They see themselves as skilled workers navigating a complex socio-political landscape where survival often comes before morality, given that Cameroon, under Paul Biya’s presidency of more than 40 years, has experienced widespread poverty, instability and an uncertain succession struggle.
To address fraud effectively, interventions must go beyond simply punishing offenders. Instead, efforts should focus on dismantling the structures that allow fraud to thrive, starting with those who enable it.
Why fraudsters choose this activity
A central theme emerging from our interviews was the impact of the Ambazonian Crisis, an ongoing separatist conflict in Cameroon’s anglophone regions. The crisis began as peaceful demonstrations in 2016 when trade unionists and lawyers protested against the mandatory use of the French language in schools and law courts. By 2017, these protests had turned violent as armed separatist groups emerged within the anglophone regions, engaging in sporadic conflict with government forces. The separatists called for the secession of the two anglophone regions, referring to them as Ambazonia. The conflict has since escalated. Reports estimate that the violence has led to approximately 6,000 civilian deaths, the displacement of 600,000 people within Cameroon, and the forced migration of over 77,000 people into Nigeria as refugees.
The website developers we interviewed described how daily gunfire, displacement and political instability had made it difficult to secure stable employment and find clients.
Interviewees cited frequent power outages and internet blackouts as barriers to working with legitimate clients.
As one developer put it:
There are times when we go without electricity or network for days. I might have a legitimate client, but if the power goes out, I lose the job. Fraudsters, on the other hand, don’t care about delays. They are always there with another request.
Ghost-town protests, where separatists enforce economic shutdowns and force people to stay in their homes, further limit opportunities for legitimate business. In this unstable environment, undertaking website development for fraudsters became one of the few steady income streams.
A second theme was spiritual beliefs. We found that spiritual beliefs had an impact on decision-making. Developers rationalised their work by distinguishing between fraud and fraud enablement. Directly perpetrating fraud against victims, they believed, carried spiritual consequences, while simply building websites for fraudsters did not. Some fraudsters in west Africa visit a so-called “juju priest”, who may demand animal sacrifice and even murder in return for their blessing. The website developers we spoke to did not want to get involved in this.
One of the developers shared his fears about spiritual repercussions:
Scammers who do rituals for money, they don’t last. Most of the time, you see them dying at the age of 20 or 30. I don’t want to be involved in that. But making websites? That’s different. I’m not the one taking the money.
A third theme in our findings was the Big Boy culture, a subculture that glorifies online fraud as a symbol of success. In some west African communities, fraudsters who display their wealth through expensive cars, clothes and lifestyles are seen as role models rather than criminals.
Vanesa, a developer, explained:
Everybody wants to chill with the Big Boys. Fraudsters want to be seen as superstars, and that means spending money like celebrities.
The normalisation of internet fraud in some circles has created a perception that financial success justifies the means by which it is achieved. While some developers disapproved of fraudsters’ extravagant lifestyles, others saw it as a model of economic survival to aspire to.
Rethinking fraud prevention
These findings challenge the simplistic notion that the internet inherently enables fraud. Instead, fraud thrives within a complex ecosystem that includes not just the perpetrators but also the enablers who facilitate deception for economic, political, and cultural reasons.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Suleman Lazarus, Visiting Fellow, Mannheim Centre for Criminology, London School of Economics and Political Science
This digital infrastructure includes reliable access to electricity and the internet, as well as digital tools such as proxy servers, spoofing software, phishing kits and virtual private networks. Those involved must possess technical competencies in areas like web development, social engineering and systems maintenance, skills that are critical for sustaining fraudulent operations behind the scenes.
Research on cybercrime is expanding in west Africa, particularly studies of Nigeria and Ghana. But Cameroon is understudied. This gap in research has obscured a pervasive problem in Cameroon: website developers who create digital storefronts for fraudsters.
Rather than focusing on the fraudsters themselves, our study examined the infrastructure that enables this fraud to happen and the hidden networks of actors who make deception possible. Our research sheds light on a little-known group of enablers: website developers in anglophone Cameroon who knowingly build fake shopping websites.
Through interviews with 14 website developers engaged in this illicit trade, we explored the socio-economic and political forces that drive their participation.
Our findings showed that a mix of economic hardship, social norms and cultural beliefs drive fraud enablement in Cameroon. Our study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of cybercrime. The website developers in Cameroon do not fit the typical profile of a fraudster. They see themselves as skilled workers navigating a complex socio-political landscape where survival often comes before morality, given that Cameroon, under Paul Biya’s presidency of more than 40 years, has experienced widespread poverty, instability and an uncertain succession struggle.
To address fraud effectively, interventions must go beyond simply punishing offenders. Instead, efforts should focus on dismantling the structures that allow fraud to thrive, starting with those who enable it.
Why fraudsters choose this activity
A central theme emerging from our interviews was the impact of the Ambazonian Crisis, an ongoing separatist conflict in Cameroon’s anglophone regions. The crisis began as peaceful demonstrations in 2016 when trade unionists and lawyers protested against the mandatory use of the French language in schools and law courts. By 2017, these protests had turned violent as armed separatist groups emerged within the anglophone regions, engaging in sporadic conflict with government forces. The separatists called for the secession of the two anglophone regions, referring to them as Ambazonia. The conflict has since escalated. Reports estimate that the violence has led to approximately 6,000 civilian deaths, the displacement of 600,000 people within Cameroon, and the forced migration of over 77,000 people into Nigeria as refugees.
The website developers we interviewed described how daily gunfire, displacement and political instability had made it difficult to secure stable employment and find clients.
Interviewees cited frequent power outages and internet blackouts as barriers to working with legitimate clients.
As one developer put it:
There are times when we go without electricity or network for days. I might have a legitimate client, but if the power goes out, I lose the job. Fraudsters, on the other hand, don’t care about delays. They are always there with another request.
Ghost-town protests, where separatists enforce economic shutdowns and force people to stay in their homes, further limit opportunities for legitimate business. In this unstable environment, undertaking website development for fraudsters became one of the few steady income streams.
A second theme was spiritual beliefs. We found that spiritual beliefs had an impact on decision-making. Developers rationalised their work by distinguishing between fraud and fraud enablement. Directly perpetrating fraud against victims, they believed, carried spiritual consequences, while simply building websites for fraudsters did not. Some fraudsters in west Africa visit a so-called “juju priest”, who may demand animal sacrifice and even murder in return for their blessing. The website developers we spoke to did not want to get involved in this.
One of the developers shared his fears about spiritual repercussions:
Scammers who do rituals for money, they don’t last. Most of the time, you see them dying at the age of 20 or 30. I don’t want to be involved in that. But making websites? That’s different. I’m not the one taking the money.
A third theme in our findings was the Big Boy culture, a subculture that glorifies online fraud as a symbol of success. In some west African communities, fraudsters who display their wealth through expensive cars, clothes and lifestyles are seen as role models rather than criminals.
Vanesa, a developer, explained:
Everybody wants to chill with the Big Boys. Fraudsters want to be seen as superstars, and that means spending money like celebrities.
The normalisation of internet fraud in some circles has created a perception that financial success justifies the means by which it is achieved. While some developers disapproved of fraudsters’ extravagant lifestyles, others saw it as a model of economic survival to aspire to.
Rethinking fraud prevention
These findings challenge the simplistic notion that the internet inherently enables fraud. Instead, fraud thrives within a complex ecosystem that includes not just the perpetrators but also the enablers who facilitate deception for economic, political, and cultural reasons.
– Fake online shops rely on tech skills: what drives Cameroon’s web developers to assist online fraudsters – https://theconversation.com/fake-online-shops-rely-on-tech-skills-what-drives-cameroons-web-developers-to-assist-online-fraudsters-252429
Four ticket options available, including Early Access and Dash Pass
Festival runs April 12-13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; tickets availableonlineand in person
PHOENIX, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electrify Expo, North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, is returning to Phoenix for its second year, offering exciting demo experiences for all ages across 1 million square feet of space at State Farm Stadium, April 12-13. With more brands, interactive exhibits and hands-on demos than ever before, attendees can explore the latest in EVs, from cars and trucks, to bikes, motorcycles, charging solutions and sustainable technology.
“We’re thrilled to return to Phoenix with a new line up this year,” said BJ Birtwell, CEO and founder of Electrify Expo. “With so much momentum behind EV adoption in the region, the festival gives people a chance to feel the fun factor of nearly all things electric.”
Phoenix is charging ahead in EV adoption, with more drivers making the switch and the city ramping up support for electric transportation. The city is expanding public charging stations and investing in infrastructure to keep up with demand. With a goal of 280,000 EVs on the road by 2030, Phoenix is aligning with clean energy targets and making it easier than ever for residents to go electric, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Fun for all ages, festivalgoers can demo the latest EVs on multiple demo courses, jump into the Kids Zone, check out Electrify Race League and find savory cuisine from popular food trucks.
Attendees can check out, jump in or take a spin in the latest electric vehicles from top automakers, including:
Ford
Tesla
Lexus
Porsche
Toyota
Lucid
Jeep
Dodge
Leading micromobility brands will offer rides of their e-bikes, e-scooters and other electric rideables, including:
Can-Am
Kawasaki
Droyd
Rawrr
Ghostcat
Voro Motors
ONYX Motors
… and many more!
For the 2025 season, Electrify Expo offers five ticket options to suit every attendee’s needs:
General Admission Pass ($20): All day access to the festival and demo experiences.
HeadStart Pass ($30): Get early access to explore the festival an hour before general admission.
Dash Pass ($55): Skip the lines with priority access to participating demo zones.
Power Pack ($99): The best of both worlds, early entry plus priority access for the ultimate experience, and exclusive access to the VIP Lounge.
Electrify Expo’s gates will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13, with the full day of festivities concluding at 5 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase in-person and online.
Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@skyya.com.
About Electrify Expo Electrify Expo is North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) and technology festival, where consumers come to shop and experience all things electric. The festival showcases the industry’s leading brands and exciting startups through hands-on activations, demos and experiences spanning EVs, micromobility, solar energy, charging solutions, powersports, automotive aftermarket and connected home technology, providing attendees with immersive learning opportunities and memorable interactions. From high-powered demo courses to engaging education zones, Electrify Expo offers a unique festival vibe for consumers to reshape what they think they know about EVs. In 2025, Electrify Expo’s nationwide tour will visit Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit www.electrifyexpo.com and follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
PUBLIC DEALING DISCLOSUREBY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
1.
KEY INFORMATION
(a)
Full name of discloser:
Invesco Ltd.
(b)
Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c)
Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
Advanced Medical Solutions Group plc
(d)
If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e)
Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
01.04.2025
(f)
In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
N/A
2.
POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a)
Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
5p ordinary GB0004536594
Interests
Short Positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1)
Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
6,641,019
3.04
(2)
Cash-settled derivatives:
(3)
Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
Total
6,641,019
3.04
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b)
Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3.
DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a)
Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
5p ordinary GB0004536594
Sale
47,699
2.33 GBP
(b)
Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product descriptione.g. CFD
Nature of dealinge.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealinge.g. subscription, conversion
Details
Price per unit (if applicable)
4.
OTHER INFORMATION
(a)
Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
(b)
Agreements, arrangements, or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i) the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii) the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
None
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure
02.04.2025
Contact name
Philippa Holmes
Telephone number
+441491417447
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website atwww.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.
Following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar and the broader region, the EU is channelling further assistance to strengthen relief efforts. This includes sending 80 tonnes of tents, child protection kits, health and water and sanitation kits to Mandalay for distribution by EU partners.
AUSTIN, Texas, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aero Capital Solutions, Inc. (“ACS”), a world-class leasing platform that specializes in mid-life narrowbody aircraft, announces the final closing on its fourth and largest aviation investment vehicle with total aggregate equity commitments of $936 million. The vehicle was oversubscribed with a diverse investor base of new and existing relationships which include institutional investors, registered investment advisers, and single and multi-family offices. In addition to the $936 million of equity, ACS has negotiated two debt facilities led by Deutsche Bank and Atlas SP and is targeting over $3.5 billion in total capital for deployment.
Jason Barany, ACS’ CEO & CIO, commented, “As we continue to operate in a capacity constrained environment, we are finding interesting risk adjusted opportunities and increased deal flow. With committed capital, our integrated platform and asset focused approach, ACS will continue to be a trusted and integral partner to airlines worldwide.”
Adam Davidson, ACS’ EVP of Business Development, added, “We are grateful for the strong support from such a sophisticated and diverse group of investors. Raising our fourth investment vehicle will allow us to continue to grow with our valued partners and build on our successful track record in the mid-life aircraft space.”
As of its final close on March 28, 2025, the investment vehicle was approximately 72% called, comprised of 160 commercial aircraft closed or under contract to close. The current portfolio includes a mix of mid-life Boeing and Airbus narrowbody aircraft on-lease to a diversified group of airlines around the world.
Vedder Price serves as legal counsel to ACS.
About Aero Capital Solutions, Inc. Aero Capital Solutions, Inc. (“ACS”) is a leading lessor of mid-life aircraft and engines with over $2.7 billion in AUM. Since it was founded in 2010, ACS has deployed more than $5 billion in aircraft assets in conjunction with institutional finance partners and via privately offered investment vehicles. ACS has 60 employees and offices in Austin, TX, Dublin, Ireland, and Singapore.
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that JERRIN PENA, a/k/a “Rooga,” a/k/a “Perry,” was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in prison for his participation in several acts of violence as a member of the Own Every Dollar (“OED”) gang, including the April 14, 2019, murder of Hector Cruz. PENA previously pled guilty to racketeering conspiracy, assault with a dangerous weapon, Hobbs Act robbery, discharging a firearm in furtherance of Hobbs Act robbery, narcotics conspiracy, and firearms trafficking. U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken imposed yesterday’s sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Jerrin Pena, a leader of the violent OED gang, murdered an innocent bystander, Hector Cruz, while trying to shoot at a rival gang member on April 14, 2019. Then, when in federal custody on these charges, Pena stabbed another inmate in an attempt to kill him. Yesterday’s lengthy prison sentence hopefully brings some measure of comfort to the family of Hector Cruz, and reinforces this Office’s commitment to ending gang violence throughout New York City.”
As alleged in the Indictment and statements made in public filings and public court proceedings:
PENA was a leader of the violent OED gang, a subset of the Trinitarios gang based in and around the Washington Heights area of Manhattan. The indictments in this case charge 24 members and associates of OED with numerous violent crimes, including five murders and 15 attempted murders.
On April 14, 2019, in the early evening, PENA and others drove to West 135th Street in Manhattan to shoot at members of a rival gang. PENA exited the car and shot at a rival gang member on West 135th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. He missed the rival gang member, but struck bystander Hector Cruz—then age 57—in the liver. Cruz died of the gunshot wound approximately one month later.
PENA also committed an attempted murder on February 28, 2023, when he and several other inmates stabbed another inmate in the Metropolitan Detention Center; committed a gunpoint robbery of a drug dealer on January 22, 2022, in the vicinity of Riverside Drive and West 145th Street in Manhattan; conspired to traffic more than four kilograms of fentanyl; and trafficked firearms from Pennsylvania to New York.
16 other defendants have previously pled guilty in the case.
* * *
In addition to his prison term, PENA, 23, of New York, New York, was sentenced to five years of supervised release.
Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding work of the New York City Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah L. Kushner, Kevin Mead, Ashley C. Nicolas, and Alexandra Messiter are in charge of the prosecution.
The war in Ukraine is often marked by specific dates, like February 24, 2022 – the day of the full-scale invasion. But for many Ukrainians, that February never really ended. For me, then a 22-year-old master’s student in construction engineering, that day shattered everything I understood about my future. I was glued to my phone, refreshing news updates in a frantic attempt to make sense of the chaos.
The distant echoes of explosions rumbled through the city, shaking windows and setting off endless car alarms. Air raid sirens wailed, their sound slicing through the early morning stillness. Outside, people hurried past with suitcases, their faces pale and tense, while others lined up at pharmacies and ATMs, their hands trembling as they stocked up on essentials.
My family and friends sent frantic messages (Are you safe? Are you leaving? What do we do?) but no one had an answer. Fear settled in like a second skin, thick and suffocating. The streets, once familiar, now felt unrecognisable, transformed by the weight of uncertainty.
We were all touched by the war, including my family. My father, who is a scientist and professor of Mykolaiv University of Shipbuilding, voluntarily joined the military forces to fight for Ukraine and give my family the possibility to work and study while the war raged outside.
Meanwhile, my hometown, Mykolaiv – previously a strategically important shipbuilding and port city on the Black Sea – became a key stepping-stone for Russian forces on the road to Odesa. It is very close to currently occupied territories and the frontline.
The Insights section is committed to high-quality longform journalism. Our editors work with academics from many different backgrounds who are tackling a wide range of societal and scientific challenges.
Controlling access to the city and its bridges was crucial in the battle for Ukraine. The destruction of these bridges cut off vital supply routes, leaving Mykolaiv isolated and struggling to hold the line. What were once ordinary crossings became symbols of survival, as the city fought to stay connected and withstand the siege.
As my home was attacked, I realised something fundamental: bridges were not just engineering projects. They were lifelines.
Engineering hope
Rebuilding bridges and roads is about more than repairing physical structures; it is about restoring security, economic stability and vital connections between communities. A collapsed bridge isolates people from essential services, disrupting supply chains and deepening vulnerability. The war has exposed just how critical Ukraine’s infrastructure is for survival.
Mykolaiv is one of the hardest-hit regions. According to the Ukrainian government, more than 20 bridges were destroyed or severely damaged by Russian attacks, including the Inhul Bridge, a vital artery for the city.
The Snihurivka Bridge, another key crossing, was also wiped out, leaving thousands stranded without reliable access to healthcare and supplies. For months, humanitarian aid and commerce were forced onto alternative, unreliable routes, further isolating communities. The reconstruction of key bridges in my home region has allowed life to resume, but the scale of the challenge across the country remains immense.
Elsewhere, the destruction has been just as devastating.. The Irpin Bridge, north-west of Kyiv, which once carried 40,000 vehicles a day, became a symbol of both loss and survival. Ukrainian forces had to destroy the bridge to stop Russian advances on Kyiv. Thousands of civilians fled across its wreckage under fire.
Science: a light in the dark
Fast forward to the autumn of 2022. Ukraine’s power grid was under relentlessattack. Entire cities were plunged into darkness. I sat at my desk in Lviv, in western Ukraine, where I have been working on my PhD thesis. My laptop battery was draining and a single candle flickered beside me. I was writing a research paper on strengthening methods for buildings and infrastructure. Yet, all around me real infrastructure was collapsing, making my work feel disconnected from reality.
Laptop battery draining and a single candle flickers during one of the regular power cuts. Nadiia Kopiika
The city had endured weeks of missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure and power cuts became part of daily life. Simple tasks like boiling water for tea, charging a phone, or even sending an email became unpredictable challenges. The hum of generators filled the streets and people lined up at charging stations trying to stay connected. The darkness wasn’t just outside, it seeped into everything, a constant reminder that the war was never far away.
At that moment, a question struck me: what if science could help rebuild Ukraine? Could research, something that had once felt so theoretical, actually make a difference in the aftermath of war?
The project aimed to not only repair what was damaged but to build better infrastructure: homes that are more resilient, more sustainable and ready for future crises. Mitoulis recalled that the whole idea for BridgeUkraine was born out of a deeply personal moment:
I first thought of BridgeUkraine when I spoke with my former MSc student, Marat Khodzhaiev, who was in Ukraine when the war started. He was stranded in his house and at risk of missing the opportunity to graduate from his MSc course in the UK. All bridges around him had collapsed, there was no escape route. His wife was pregnant at the time. That call made me realise the urgent need, not only to rebuild infrastructure, but also to support and empower Ukrainian engineers to build their future. BridgeUkraine became more than just a research alliance, it became a mission that ensures that Ukraine’s recovery will be driven by its own people, equipped with the best knowledge and tools to rebuild their country.
The KSE Institute estimates that more than 300 bridges across Ukraine require urgent reconstruction, with damages exceeding US$2.6 billion. But this isn’t all about infrastructure; it is about securing Ukraine’s independence and ensuring that its economy and society can function even under the most difficult conditions. Every bridge rebuilt is a step toward recovery, a restored connection between families and communities, and a symbol of resilience.
To address these challenges, rebuilding Ukraine’s infrastructure cannot follow conventional methods. The sheer scale of destruction demands a new approach, one that not only restores what was lost but strengthens the country for the future.
At BridgeUkraine, we are developing solutions that prioritise resilience over quick fixes. Instead of rebuilding vulnerable structures, we are integrating sustainable materials, climate-adaptive engineering, and strategic planning to ensure that Ukraine’s transport networks are built to last.
Rebuilding fairly and efficiently
A comprehensive assessment conducted by the government of Ukraine, the World Bank Group, the European Commission, and the United Nations estimates that the total cost of Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery stands at approximately €506 billion (US$524bn) over the next decade. This underscores the necessity for continued and enhanced international support to address the extensive needs arising from the conflict.
There are no academic guidelines on how to rebuild after such destruction. What is the most effective way to approach reconstruction in this context? We quickly came to the realisation that conventional methods were too slow and rigid to address the urgent and widespread damage.
Our research team wanted to re-imagine how to rebuild infrastructure and homes that are resilient to future challenges, from war-related destruction to climate-induced disasters. As Mitoulis told me:
Rebuilding infrastructure is not just about restoring roads and bridges, it’s about rebuilding lives. Our approach is centred on people, ensuring that the infrastructure is designed by Ukrainians, for Ukrainians. It must not only reconnect communities but also support economic recovery and long-term resilience.
But such ethical reconstruction must be inclusive, sustainable and community-driven, ensuring that those who depend on infrastructure have a say in how it is rebuilt.
Reconstruction must be a participatory, creative effort – one that rebuilds cities with beauty and meaning, connecting them to their past while preparing for the future. Too often, post-war recovery efforts have been dictated by external donors, prioritising short-term economic gains over long-term resilience.
People like me, who have grown up in these places, understand the culture, the rhythm of daily life, and the importance of preserving identity as well as buildings. We want to see our cities restored in a way that reflects our history and spirit.
For example, in post-second world war Warsaw, reconstruction efforts initially ignored the city’s historical character in favour of Soviet-style urban planning. It was only through the persistence of local architects and historians that parts of the Old Town were painstakingly restored to reflect their original designs.
Ukraine cannot afford such myopic, profit-driven decision-making. Instead, it must empower local communities, integrating their knowledge, needs and skills into the reconstruction process.
This vision started to take shape through workshop discussions with experts in geography and urban planning. Everyone agreed on the need for an adaptable transportation system where modular designs and relocatable, prefabricated bridges (like the Mabey bridge in US) could respond to evolving demands and disruptions.
Similarly, at the ReBuild Ukraine 2024 conference leading engineers, policymakers and researchers showcased groundbreaking technologies designed to accelerate reconstruction while reducing long-term environmental and economic risks (for example, nature-based solutions, 3D-printing, Virtual Reality and Building Informational Modelling).
Revolutionising damage assessment with AI, radar and satellite imagery
But to effectively plan for recovery and reconstruction, it’s crucial to first accurately characterise the damage. A clear picture of what has been destroyed allows for smarter decisions, prioritising the most urgent repairs and using resources effectively.
Our latest research, published in Automation in Construction, introduces a faster, more precise way to assess damage to key infrastructure, particularly bridges. Bringing together expertise from a large multidisciplinary team, we developed a new approach that combines satellite images and radar and artificial intelligence to swiftly and accurately analyse damage.
This technology allowed us to assess the condition of bridges remotely, without having to be onsite in dangerous or inaccessible areas. By providing rapid, data-driven insights, our method helps ensure that reconstruction efforts start where they are needed most, speeding up recovery and making rebuilding efforts more effective.
We tested this approach on numerous bridges in the Irpin region of Ukraine, and the results were striking. It significantly improved both the speed and accuracy of damage assessments. Using Sentinel-1 SAR images (radar satellite images from the European Space Agency’s Copernicus program), crowdsourced data (photos and reports from people on the ground), and high-resolution imagery, we developed a comprehensive approach for damage detection and classification.
This approach works on multiple levels: it provides a big-picture view of damage across entire regions while also zooming in on specific structural issues in individual bridge components. By combining satellite data with detailed images, our method makes damage assessments more precise, faster and safer, ensuring that reconstruction efforts focus on the most critical areas first.
These findings can play a crucial role in damage and needs assessment such as those conducted by the World Bank.
Sustainable infrastructure
In war zones, destruction often affects vital humanitarian and evacuation corridors, making it essential to prioritise reconstruction based on factors such as the national importance of a bridge, its role in border crossings, and its impact on social services.
But rebuilding after a disaster is also an opportunity to create something stronger, smarter, built to last – and with a sustainable focus.
From the first day of the invasion, Nadiia began volunteering at Lviv Polytechnic National University helping to weave camouflage nets. @kathryn_moskalyuk
Given Ukraine’s commitment to net-zero emissions and resilience, we expanded our research [and published a study] which introduced an innovative model for rebuilding infrastructure that can withstand future hazards while minimising carbon emissions. At its core, the model features a “smart prioritisation system” that helps decision-makers allocate resources effectively. It assesses key factors such as repair urgency, community impact and long-term durability, ensuring that rebuilding efforts provide the greatest benefits where they are needed most.
For example, when assessing damaged structures, the system prioritises projects that will provide the most long-term benefits. That might mean restoring energy systems to prevent future blackouts or repairing bridges that serve as key evacuation routes and economic lifelines.
As Stanislav Gvozdikov, deputy director of Euro-integration Process at Ukraine’s State Road Research Institute, told me: “Every bridge we restore, every road we reopen, isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about restoring life, reconnecting families and ensuring that communities have the resilience to withstand whatever comes next.”
This is already a reality near my home town, Mykolaiv, where newly rebuilt bridges have restored transport links and also revived local economies, giving people hope for the future.
But no one rebuilds a country alone.
The UK-Ukraine 100-year agreement, announced in February 2025, underscored a deep commitment to Ukraine’s security, economic resilience, and post-war reconstruction. The partnership recognises the importance of cooperation between the UK and Ukraine to strengthen technological innovation and to increase collaboration in transport more widely.
I’ve also had the privilege of working with some of the brightest minds in the field, including more than 50 practitioners, consultants, academics, institutions and international bodies. This alliance of experts was united by a shared vision: to change the way the world approaches post-war reconstruction.
A key part of this mission is training engineers, equipping them with the latest knowledge in damage assessment, resilience-based and people-centred design and international standards to lead Ukraine’s reconstruction.
We come from different backgrounds – engineering, economics, policy, humanitarian efforts, and governmental bodies. But we all share the same motivation in wanting to help our country.
Leading researchers from Ukraine specialising in AI technologies, infrastructure engineering, sustainable and energy-saving buildings or climate change, are also members of BridgeUkraine. AI-specialist, Ivan Izonin has spoken passionately about how he believes that the collaborative efforts we have started “will lay the foundation for large-scale scientific projects that will be pivotal in post-war reconstruction…”. While Natalya Shakhovska , also a specialist in AI, recalled: “My activity in the BridgeUkraine alliance gave me the opportunity to align my research to critical infrastructure assessment, enabled by my AI modelling…Today I really feel included, I understand that my expertise is helping [my country’s recovery]”
Another enthusiastic Ukrainian researcher, Khrystyna Myroniuk, who specialises in building physics, told me how the collaboration had given her the opportunity to continue her “research on sustainable housing solutions for Ukraine”.
Stopping the brain drain
One of the most critical challenges facing Ukraine today, aside from the physical destruction, is the brain drain – the mass exodus of skilled professionals who left the country in search of safety and better opportunities abroad.
This trend has had a significant impact on the country’s ability to rebuild. Engineers, architects and other highly trained specialists have long been a pillar of Ukraine’s development. But the war has forced many to leave, with no clear path back to contribute to the reconstruction effort. BridgeUkraine is helping to reverse this trend by offering a compelling reason for these skilled professionals to return.
Our engagement with Ukrainian engineers then sparked another idea: what if we trained local professionals to apply our expertise, equipping them to drive this transformation within their engineering communities?
This ensures that Ukraine’s recovery is driven by its own people, equipped with the latest global knowledge. By bridging the knowledge gap and integrating the best methods and ideas from across Europe, Ukraine can position itself as a leader in resilient infrastructure design.
Our research was taken up by the Ministry of Restoration of Ukraine. Stanislav Gvozdikov collaborated with us to launch a joint programme of Continuing Professional Development seminars for engineers designed to help them stay up to date with the latest knowledge and skills in their field. To date, our expertise has been shared with over 1,500 Ukrainians.
Argyroudis emphasised to me how critical the role of engineers will be in Ukraine’s reconstruction, saying: “It’s about rebuilding Ukrainian identity as a country.”
The ultimate goal is to build a culture of innovation and self-reliance among local professionals who have the expertise and passion to drive this change.
Professionals can now contribute to projects and be part of a larger community of practice, which brings together engineers, academics and international partners.
I am, personally, incredibly proud to have had the privilege, over the past two years, to help empower Ukrainians to develop world-leading research that accelerates their country’s recovery.
Shaping tomorrow
My hometown, Mykolaiv, still bears the scars of war. Returning there, I saw firsthand what was lost. But also what could be rebuilt. War has taken, and continues to take so much, but it has also forged a new generation of engineers who understand that our profession is no longer just about calculations and designs. It is about resilience, survival and national recovery.
Three years ago, I would have imagined a very different career for myself. But today, I know that engineering is more than my profession, it is my mission.
I am committed to ethical and inclusive infrastructure recovery in Ukraine, because science must be the foundation of national resilience. Ethical reconstruction must prioritise people over profits, creating systems that empower and strengthen communities.
Ukraine’s recovery is about setting a global precedent for post-conflict reconstruction. Our research, training programs and commitment to innovation are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more connected Ukraine, offering a paradigm shift to the war-torn world. Because rebuilding is about more than replacing the past. It is about creating a future that can withstand whatever comes next.
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Nadiia Kopiika receives funding from British Academy. She is affiliated with University of Birmingham, UK and Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine.
PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
(b)Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
N/A
(c)Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
ALLIANCE PHARMA PLC
(d)If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
N/A
(e)Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
01 APRIL 2025
(f)In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
N/A
2.POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a)Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
1p ORDINARY
Interests
Short positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1)Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
12,025,555
2.2246
(2)Cash-settled derivatives:
(3)Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:
12,025,555
2.2246
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b)Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:
Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:
3.DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a)Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
1p ORDINARY
SALE
16,171
64.126p
1p ORDINARY
BUY
12,980
64.189p
(b)Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product description e.g. CFD
Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
(d)Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion
Details
Price per unit (if applicable)
NONE
4.OTHER INFORMATION
(a)Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
NONE
(b)Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i)the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii)the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
NONE
(c)Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure:
02 APRIL 2025
Contact name:
PHIL HULME
Telephone number:
01253 376551
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
STAMFORD, Conn., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Grayscale, a leading crypto asset manager, today announced the launch of Grayscale® Bitcoin Covered Call ETF (Ticker: BTCC) and Grayscale® Bitcoin Premium Income ETF (Ticker: BPI) (the “Funds”). The two Funds are Grayscale’s newest exchange-traded funds (ETFs) which offer covered call writing strategies, seeking to provide investors the ability to access the volatility characteristics of Bitcoin as a differentiated source of income.
Grayscale® Bitcoin Covered Call ETF seeks to provide current income. The Fund’s secondary objective is to participate in the returns of Bitcoin through the use of options on Bitcoin exchange-traded products whose investment objectives are to, before fees and expenses, track the price performance of Bitcoin. The Bitcoin exchange-traded products include, but are not limited to, Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (Ticker: GBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (Ticker: BTC) (the “Bitcoin ETPs”). There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by systematically writing calls very close to spot prices. This strategy leverages Bitcoin’s volatility to help prioritize income, which is then distributed to fund shareholders. By selling calls near spot prices, BTCC seeks to deliver a principal focus on income generation. This makes BTCC an income-first strategy, potentially ideal for investors seeking regular cash flows and high yielding opportunities. The option premiums collected in this type of strategy may also help cushion against market downturns, potentially leading to lower volatility during drawdowns.
In contrast, Grayscale® Bitcoin Premium Income ETF seeks to provide current income while maintaining prospects for capital appreciation through the use of options on Bitcoin exchange-traded products whose investment objectives are to, before fees and expenses, track the price performance of Bitcoin. The Bitcoin exchange-traded products include, but are not limited to, Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (Ticker: GBTC) and Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (Ticker: BTC) (the “Bitcoin ETPs”). There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. The Fund seeks to achieve this by systematically writing calls targeting strike prices that are well out-of-the-money. By focusing on this type of call writing strategy, BPI allows investors to participate in much of Bitcoin’s upside potential while possibly benefiting from some dividend income. This blended approach provides investors with an opportunity to participate in the capital appreciation potential of Bitcoin with the benefits of income. Both Funds are actively managed, fully options based, and will aim to distribute income monthly.
“Grayscale® Bitcoin Covered Call ETF may complement an investors existing Bitcoin exposure by adding income, while Grayscale® Bitcoin Premium Income ETF offers an alternative to Bitcoin ownership, aiming to balance upside participation and income generation for investors,” said David LaValle, Global Head of ETFs at Grayscale. “We understand that every investor has unique needs, and we’re excited to offer these new products that not only may capture and deliver income but also offer differentiated outcomes and behavioral characteristics tailored to their specific goals.”
Grayscale enables investors to access the digital economy through a family of future-forward investment products. Founded in 2013, Grayscale has a decade-long track record and deep expertise as an asset management firm focused on crypto investing. Investors, advisors, and allocators turn to Grayscale for single asset, diversified, and thematic exposure. For more information, please follow @Grayscale or visit grayscale.com.
Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call (866)-775-0313 or visit our website at etfs.grayscale.com/bpi and etfs.grayscale.com/btcc. Read the prospectuses or summary prospectuses carefully before investing.
Grayscale Bitcoin Covered Calls ETF and Grayscale Bitcoin Premium Income ETF (collectively the “Funds”) will not invest in digital assets directly. The Funds also will not invest in initial coin offerings. The Funds will, however, have indirect exposure to digital assets by virtue of its investments in derivatives on exchange-traded vehicles that hold digital assets as investments. Because the Funds will not invest directly in any digital assets, they may not track price movements of any digital assets.
Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee the investment strategies will be successful. The Funds are considered to be non-diversified. The Funds are actively managed and their performance reflects the investment decisions that the Adviser makes for the Funds.
Derivative Instruments. The Funds will invest in options, a type of derivative instrument. Derivatives can be more sensitive to changes in interest rates or to sudden fluctuations in market prices than conventional securities, which can result in greater losses for the Funds. In addition, the prices of the derivative instruments and the prices of underlying securities, interest rates or currencies they are designed to reflect may not move together as expected. Derivatives are usually traded on margin, which may subject the Funds to margin calls. Margin calls may force the Funds to liquidate assets.
Options Risk. The use of options involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions and depends on the ability of the Funds’ portfolio managers to forecast market movements correctly. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument. The effective use of options also depends on the Funds’ ability to terminate option positions at times deemed desirable to do so. There is no assurance that the Funds will be able to effect closing transactions at any particular time or at an acceptable price.
Covered Call Option Writing Risk. By writing covered call options in return for the receipt of premiums, the Fund will give up the opportunity to benefit from potential increases in the value of the security above the exercise prices of such options, but will continue to bear the risk of declines in the value of the underlying security. The premiums received from the options may not be sufficient to offset any losses sustained from the volatility of the underlying stocks over time. As a result, the risks associated with writing covered call options may be similar to the risks associated with writing put options. In addition, the Funds’ ability to sell the securities underlying the options will be limited while the options are in effect unless the Funds cancel out the option positions through the purchase of offsetting identical options prior to the expiration of the written options.
Digital Assets Risk. Digital assets, such as bitcoin, are assets designed to act as a medium of exchange, though some arguably have not achieved that purpose. Digital assets are an emerging asset class. Digital assets generally operate without a central authority (such as a bank) and are not backed by any government. Digital assets are not legal tender. Federal, state and/or foreign governments may restrict the use and exchange of digital assets, and regulation in the United States is still developing.
Bitcoin ETPs Investment Risk. Bitcoin ETPs Investment Risk. The Funds intend to obtain investment exposure to Bitcoin, indirectly via synthetic exposure to Bitcoin ETPs through derivatives. The price of Bitcoin ETPs shares may not directly correspond to the price of any digital currency and are highly volatile. Such investment also exposes the Funds to all of the risks related to digital currencies discussed herein. The shares of Bitcoin ETPs are not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, or any state securities laws, and therefore such an investment will not benefit from the protections and restrictions of such laws.
Of the Bitcoin ETPs, GBTC and BTC are sponsored by an affiliate of the Funds’ Adviser that receives a fee in exchange for assuming certain administrative and marketing expenses of GBTC and BTC. While the Funds do not invest directly in GBTC and BTC, the Funds’ strategies may result in additional purchases of shares of GBTC and BTC by options holders, which will benefit the Adviser and its affiliate in terms of the fee being received on these products.
Liquidity Risk. The market for Bitcoin ETP options is still developing and may be subject to a period of illiquidity.
New Fund Risk. The Funds are recently organized investment companies with no operating history.
The Funds are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC and Grayscale Advisors, LLC (“GSA”) is the adviser. Foreside is not related to GSA or its affiliates.
With tariffs going into effect, report uncovers trends in new car supply, consumer demand, and pricing—plus opportunities where shoppers can still find savings
BOSTON, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG), the No. 1 visited digital auto platform for shopping, buying, and selling new and used vehicles1, today released its Quarterly Review for Q1 2025. The report provides a view into the key trends influencing pricing, inventory, and demand for new and used vehicles so far this year, along with factors that could impact the road ahead.
“It’s no secret that the first quarter has been dominated by tariff news,” said Kevin Roberts, Director of Economic and Market Intelligence at CarGurus. “Steady consumer purchase patterns for most of the first quarter suggest a market that was in wait-and-see mode. But a shift in urgency has taken hold as impending tariffs on auto imports—which account for nearly half of new listings—start to take effect, influencing an uptick in activity on dealer lots and new car sales in recent days.”
New car pricing continues to be one of the most pressing challenges for the market, with vehicles under $30,000 accounting for 13% of inventory, a sharp contrast to 37% in Q1 2020. With tariffs, affordable new vehicles may become harder to find as the average list price could increase by over $3,300 to approximately $52,800. According to a CarGurus analysis of current tariff policies, the share of listings priced under $30,000 could decline by 42%, while those above $50,000 would increase by 15%.
Other key themes from Q1 2025 include:
Tariffs trigger a late-month surge: Days to Turn during Q1 remained stable with little variation across countries of origin, showing earlier tariff speculation didn’t translate to increased urgency. But, a late-month shift took hold after the tariff news broke on March 26th, pushing estimated new car retail sales up by nearly 30% month-over-month. A focus on value and practicality drove import demand throughout the quarter, with imported models in lowest supply being compacts and fuel-efficient options mostly priced under $40,000. CarGurus analysis shows the most popular imported models with the lowest inventory include nameplates like Toyota’s RAV4 and Tacoma; Honda’s Civic and CR-V; and Subaru’s Crosstrek and Forester.
The used market has more options, but not without trade-offs: The used market offers shoppers some relief from tariff-related increases, but value for the money in this segment is also shifting. While used car inventory is up, buyers seeking affordability face a selection with older vehicles and higher mileage. In Q1 2020, a budget of $15,000 to $20,000 would afford an approximately four-year-old model with 47,000 miles, while today that translates to a nearly seven-year-old car with 73,000 miles. Further, CarGurus analysis shows that almost two-thirds of used sales (64%) in Q1 2020 were under $20,000, while that share dropped to 43% in Q1 2025.
Used electric vehicles (EVs) present a bright spot in the affordability story: The used EV market is steadily gaining ground as selection rises and prices stabilize to an average of about $36,000. With affordability taking center stage, the category is emerging as a practical, low-mileage alternative. The under-$25,000 market especially shines as used EVs turned faster than comparably priced internal combustion engine models. Used models like the Nissan LEAF and Chevrolet Bolt have averaged under $17,000 in Q1 2025 (with mileage under 32,000), standing out in a market driven by value and affordability.
CarGurus also shared tips for shoppers navigating the market today:
Stay informed on price trends: Platforms like CarGurus, which provides unbiased deal ratings on the largest selection of new and used vehicles in the U.S.2, are a powerful resource to compare prices and track inventory. Used car shoppers can also turn to CarGurus’ Price Trends tool to research and track model trends.
Understand buying power early in the process: Many sites, including CarGurus, enable shoppers to get pre-qualified for financing from the comfort of home, letting them browse listings with real interest rates in hand and filter options by estimated monthly payment.
Consider a wider search radius: For those with a specific model in mind, there may be a benefit in searching broadly to get the best price since local market demand can also impact car values. Using online search tools, shoppers can view pricing across regions and consider how delivery costs factor into getting the best deal.
To learn more about these trends, view the CarGurus Quarterly Review for Q1 2025 here.
About CarGurus, Inc.
CarGurus (Nasdaq: CARG) is a multinational, online automotive platform for buying and selling vehicles that is building upon its industry-leading listings marketplace with both digital retail solutions and the CarOffer online wholesale platform. The CarGurus platform gives consumers the confidence to purchase and/or sell a vehicle either online or in-person, and it gives dealerships the power to accurately price, effectively market, instantly acquire, and quickly sell vehicles, all with a nationwide reach. The company uses proprietary technology, search algorithms, and data analytics to bring trust, transparency, and competitive pricing to the automotive shopping experience. CarGurus is the most visited automotive shopping site in the U.S. 1
CarGurus also operates online marketplaces under the CarGurus brand in Canada and the U.K. In the U.S. and the U.K., CarGurus also operates the Autolist and PistonHeads online marketplaces, respectively, as independent brands.
CarGurus® is a registered trademark of CarGurus, Inc., and CarOffer® is a registered trademark of CarOffer, LLC. All other product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
1Similarweb: Traffic Report [Cars.com, Autotrader, TrueCar, CARFAX Listings (defined as CARFAX Total visits minus Vehicle History Reports traffic)], Q4 2024, U.S. 2Compared to Autotrader.com, Cars.com, TrueCar.com (YipitData as of September 30, 2024), and CarFax (Joreca as of September 30, 2024)
Media Contact: Maggie Meluzio Director, Public Relations & External Communications pr@cargurus.com
What if a used smartphone could become part of a brand-new device?
Previously confined to the imagination, this idea is now a reality with Samsung Electronics’ Circular Battery Supply Chain — an initiative that recovers and reuses key materials from the batteries of used Galaxy smartphones. The Galaxy S25 marks the first time this closed-loop battery recycling system has been applied to Samsung’s flagship lineup.
Samsung Newsroom spoke with Youngmin Kim from the Circular Economy Lab in the Global Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) Office and Sangcheul Lee from the Battery Group in the Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics to learn more about the development and impact of this project.
▲ (From left) Sangcheul Lee and Youngmin Kim
Used Galaxy Devices Reborn as Valuable Resources
Each year, approximately 200 tons of waste battery material were collected at Samsung’s production facilities in Vietnam. Countries with proper recycling infrastructure can repurpose used batteries for applications like electric vehicle batteries. Vietnam, however, lacked the means to do so. Recognizing the need for a sustainable solution, the company decided to address the issue.
“Samsung’s Vietnam facilities are among those that generate the highest volume of waste batteries, including defective units from the manufacturing process and batteries recovered from a factory that repairs Galaxy phones traded in from the United States,” said Youngmin Kim. “Our goal was to create a system that would allow us to recycle these resources and reintegrate them into our products.”
▲ Youngmin Kim explains the Circular Battery Supply Chain while showcasing cobalt and cathode materials.
To develop an efficient recycling process for Vietnam’s waste batteries, Samsung partnered with multiple companies to build an optimized resource circularity system that connected cobalt extraction plants with battery production lines in neighboring countries.
“For the Galaxy S24 series, we sourced recycled cobalt externally,” he explained. “However, with the Galaxy S25, we implemented a fully closed-loop recycling system that extracts cobalt directly from discarded Galaxy batteries.”
The collected waste batteries are processed into high-purity cobalt, then shipped to the battery production line where it is integrated into Galaxy S25 batteries. This process transforms electronic waste from used Galaxy devices into a valuable resource, supporting Samsung’s vision for a sustainable circular economy.
▲ Samsung’s Circular Battery Supply Chain in action
More specifically, the Circular Battery Supply Chain begins with collecting used Galaxy smartphones, followed by dismantling and discharging their batteries. These batteries are then shredded and processed into a fine powder known as “black mass.” This material is subsequently refined to extract cobalt — which is used to produce cathode materials, a key component of the Galaxy S25 battery.
The Endless Recyclability of Cobalt
Cobalt is essential for maintaining the stability and performance of lithium-ion batteries in smartphones. While lithium carries electrons within the battery, cobalt facilitates lithium’s movement to ensure optimal battery operation.
▲ Cobalt ore samples
“Cobalt does not degrade with battery use, meaning it can theoretically be recycled indefinitely,” said Lee. “Recycled cobalt and newly mined cobalt are virtually identical — so much so that the difference is indistinguishable in the manufacturing process.”
In essence, Galaxy devices containing cobalt can be recycled and repurposed regardless of their manufacturing date.
▲ Samsung’s Circular Battery Supply Chain on display at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona
“The key to extracting high-purity cobalt lies in technology,” said Kim. “Through our Circular Battery Supply Chain, we have successfully recovered and utilized over 90% of the cobalt from the discarded batteries that have been collected.”
Half of the cobalt used in the Galaxy S25 batteries comes from recycled sources — a strong testament to Samsung’s environmental strategy and commitment to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining premium product quality.
The Road to a Reliable and Efficient Circular Supply Chain
Nonetheless, establishing the Circular Battery Supply Chain was no easy feat as the batteries were required to meet stringent global safety and environmental regulations.
▲ Sangcheul Lee explains the certification management process.
“We had to engage with numerous partner companies, navigating complex and rigorous procedures,” recalled Lee. “To prevent fire hazards during transport, the batteries had to be crushed and obtaining the necessary certifications to comply with relevant environmental regulations took considerable time.”
“With constantly evolving regulations and Samsung’s exceptionally high internal standards, we underwent multiple rounds of reviews and certifications,” he added. “Despite the challenges, we persisted as a team and successfully implemented the system in the Galaxy S25.”
Samsung’s Evolving Vision for a Circular Economy
“I felt a great sense of pride when our Circular Battery Supply Chain was showcased at the recent Galaxy Unpacked event,” said Lee, reflecting on the achievement. “I hope to continue developing sustainable batteries by expanding our recycling efforts to include lithium and other materials.”
“With the Galaxy S25, we’ve also reached another significant milestone in resource circularity — wafer trays discarded after semiconductor manufacturing have been repurposed into a plastic used in the side and volume keys,” shared Kim. “We are working on various projects to expand resource circularity across other product lines as well, and we hope our users will continue to join us on our journey.”
Samsung has successfully established a closed-loop battery recycling system through the Circular Battery Supply Chain — turning a vision launched under its 2022 environmental strategy into reality with the Galaxy S25. This milestone has sparked growing anticipation for the next innovations that will emerge from Samsung’s pursuit of a more sustainable future.
Worsening violence between armed groups in Walikale, DRC, has trapped people and our teams and is preventing the delivery of supplies.
If supply routes remain blocked, our teams will start to run out of essential medical supplies in two weeks.
We call on all warring parties to protect civilians, medical facilities, and health workers, and facilitate the delivery of medical supplies.
Escalating violence between armed groups the FARDC and the M23/AFC, and their respective allies, in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, reached the city of Walikale on 19 March, trapping Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) staff at our base and at the local hospital.
In recent days, the situation has continued to deteriorate. The violence has severely impacted people’s access to healthcare, as 80 per cent of the community has fled the city, after hearing artillery fire and fearing hostilities. Over 700 displaced people are sheltering at the Walikale general hospital, putting additional pressure on already-limited medical resources.
“Our teams on the ground have to put their medical activities on hold when fighting erupts and are unable to move safely,” says Natalia Torrent, head of programmes for MSF in North Kivu. “The safety of our staff and patients is our top priority.”
Heavy gunfire has been heard in the vicinity of our base, highlighting the extreme risks faced by both healthcare workers and the communities they serve. Two weeks ago, a crossfire hit our logistics base, impacting our structures and some of our vehicles. Massive explosions took place near the town’s general hospital, where MSF supports the Ministry of Health in providing medical care.
Critical supply shortages of essential medicines
Today, logistical challenges remain critical, with no viable road or air routes to facilitate the transport of supplies and personnel. Our last supplies by air arrived on 17 January. With the airport remaining inoperative, the delivery of humanitarian supplies is a challenge.
“Within two weeks, our teams on the ground will start facing shortages of essential medicines, further complicating the ability of our teams to provide urgent medical assistance,” says Torrent.
MSF once again calls on all warring parties to respect and protect civilians, medical facilities, and health workers, as well as to facilitate the delivery of medical supplies to the area. We urgently demand safe and guaranteed access to healthcare for all those affected by the conflict.
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PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)
(b)Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
N/A
(c)Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree
ADVANCED MEDICAL SOLUTIONS GROUP PLC
(d)If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
N/A
(e)Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure
01 APRIL 2025
(f)In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”
N/A
2.POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE
If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.
(a)Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)
Class of relevant security:
5p ORDINARY
Interests
Short positions
Number
%
Number
%
(1)Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:
11,907,486
5.4624
(2)Cash-settled derivatives:
(3)Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:
11,907,486
5.4624
All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.
Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).
(b)Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)
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Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.
The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.
(a)Purchases and sales
Class of relevant security
Purchase/sale
Number of securities
Price per unit
5p ORDINARY
BUY
3,152
226.3481p
5p ORDINARY
SALE
855
224.83p
5p ORDINARY
SALE
3,152
225.65p
5p ORDINARY
SALE
4,445
226.5p
(b)Cash-settled derivative transactions
Class of relevant security
Product description e.g. CFD
Nature of dealing e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position
(d)Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)
Class of relevant security
Nature of dealing e.g. subscription, conversion
Details
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NONE
4.OTHER INFORMATION
(a)Indemnity and other dealing arrangements
Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer: Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
NONE
(b)Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives
Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to: (i)the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or (ii)the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced: If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
NONE
(c)Attachments
Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?
NO
Date of disclosure:
02 APRIL 2025
Contact name:
PHIL HULME
Telephone number:
01253 376551
Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.
The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.
EL PASO, Texas – A Cuban national was sentenced in a federal court in El Paso to 111 months in prison for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, conspiracy to harbor aliens, and sexual assault of an alien, following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The U.S. Border Patrol assisted with the case.
“Justice was served today for a stash house operator who organized the smuggling of hundreds of illegal aliens and sexually assaulted one of them, all while cramming individuals into tractor-trailers in the sweltering Texas heat,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jason T. Stevens. “HSI is committed to aggressively targeting human smugglers and smuggling organizations that continuously exploit individuals for profit. We will relentlessly pursue these criminals who prey on vulnerable people, ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.”
According to court documents, Humberto Yosvany Arriola-Rivero, 30, assisted in the harboring of illegal aliens and managed a stash house in El Paso. He also was an occupant in a vehicle that fled law enforcement that was transporting more than a dozen illegal aliens in April 2023. An investigation revealed that Arriola-Rivero sexually assaulted one of the illegal aliens at the El Paso stash house. Arriola-Rivero was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 17, 2023, and was arrested Sept. 7, 2023. He pleaded guilty Aug. 27, 2024.
“It’s important to note that Arriola-Rivero is being held responsible not only for the significant role he played in human smuggling operations, but also for his abhorrent decision to further dehumanize and sexually violate one of his victims,” said acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “This sentence makes it clear to smugglers in El Paso and across the southern border, that if you engage in alien smuggling in our district, you will be held accountable.”
TORONTO, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — POET Technologies Inc. (“POET” or the “Company“) (TSX Venture: PTK; NASDAQ: POET), a leader in the design and implementation of highly-integrated optical engines and light sources for artificial intelligence networks, today announced it has partnered with Lessengers, an innovative optical solution provider based in South Korea, to offer a differentiated 800G DR8 transceiver. The transceiver will include POET’s transmit and receive optical engines and Lessenger’s “Direct Optical Wiring” (DOW) technology for a cost-effective solution for AI and hyperscale data center applications.
POET will supply the highly integrated POET Infinity™ transmit and receive optical engines configured in an 800G DR8 architecture, which includes electronic and photonic components.
Lessengers expects to have transceiver samples ready for its customers to review in the second half of 2025.
“Like POET, Lessengers is bringing cutting-edge innovation to the market. It is a perfect partnership of companies that are finding new solutions by unlocking the vast abilities of optical technology. We’re thrilled to continue our growth in the industry through a co-development arrangement with a likeminded and truly inventive company,” commented Raju Kankipati, POET’s Chief Revenue Officer.
Lessengers Chief Marketing Officer Taeyong Kim added: “POET’s production-ready optical engines provide Lessengers with a high-quality component that allows us to bring more value to our transceiver customers. POET offers a complementary technology to Lessengers’ direct optical coupling that saves on costs and improves efficiency.”
The two companies’ booths are situated next to each other at the Optical Fiber Communications (OFC) Conference at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, California. POET is at Booth 5315 through the show, which ends on Thursday, April 3.
About POET Technologies Inc. POET is a design and development company offering high-speed optical modules, optical engines and light source products to the artificial intelligence systems market and to hyperscale data centers. POET’s photonic integration solutions are based on the POET Optical Interposer™, a novel, patented platform that allows the seamless integration of electronic and photonic devices into a single chip using advanced wafer-level semiconductor manufacturing techniques. POET’s Optical Interposer-based products are lower cost, consume less power than comparable products, are smaller in size and are readily scalable to high production volumes. In addition to providing high-speed (800G, 1.6T and above) optical engines and optical modules for AI clusters and hyperscale data centers, POET has designed and produced novel light source products for chip-to-chip data communication within and between AI servers, the next frontier for solving bandwidth and latency problems in AI systems. POET’s Optical Interposer platform also solves device integration challenges in 5G networks, machine-to-machine communication, self-contained “Edge” computing applications and sensing applications, such as LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles. POET is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, with operations in Allentown, PA, Shenzhen, China, and Singapore. More information about POET is available on our website at www.poet-technologies.com.
About Lessengers
Lessengers is an innovative optical solution provider, powered by its patent DOW technology, which enables cost effective direct optical coupling without the use of lens optics. This provides the most suitable solution for data center applications such as 800G/1.6T optical transceivers, active optical cables (AOCs), on-board, near packaged, or co-packaged optics.
Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws) and “forward-looking statements” (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). Such statements or information are identified with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “potential”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “outlook”, “foresee” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding any potential outcome. Such statements include the Company’s expectations with respect to the success of the Company’s product development efforts, the performance of its products, operations, meeting revenue targets, and the expectation of continued success in the financing efforts, the capability, functionality, performance and cost of the Company’s technology as well as the market acceptance, inclusion and timing of the Company’s technology in current and future products and expectations regarding its successful development of high speed transceiver solutions and its penetration of the Artificial Intelligence hardware markets.
Such forward-looking information or statements are based on a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions which may cause actual results or other expectations to differ materially from those anticipated and which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the completion of its development efforts with its customers, the ability to build working prototypes to the customer’s specifications, and the size, future growth and needs of Artificial Intelligence network suppliers. Actual results could differ materially due to a number of factors, including, without limitation, the failure to produce optical engines on time and within budget, the failure of Artificial Intelligence networks to continue to grow as expected, the failure of the Company’s products to meet performance requirements for AI and datacom networks, operational risks in the completion of the Company’s projects, the ability of the Company to generate sales for its products, and the ability of its customers to deploy systems that incorporate the Company’s products. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information or statements are reasonable, prospective investors in the Company’s securities should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because the Company can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information and statements contained in this news release are as of the date of this news release and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise this forward-looking information and statements except as required by law.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Philadelphia, PA, April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —
– DriveItAway Expands its Market to Enable All the Ability to Drive, and Then Buy Quality Vehicles, with No Long-Term Financial Commitment or Credit Threshold with Its Flexible Lease Subscription Program Now Offered to Small Commercial Businesses by launching its new “DriveItAway Business Preferred Program”
– To Promote DriveItAway Business Preferred, DriveItAway has Partnered with Fleet-Connection and its Founder Sherb Brown, Former President of Bobit Business Media and Group Publisher of Major Fleet Publications – Listen to DriveItAway’s CEO John F. Possumato and Fleet-Connection’s Sherb Brown discuss this new endeavor as part of Elena Ciccotelli’s “The EVs for Everyone Podcast” (Episode 157)
– DriveItAway’s Business Preferred Program Will Cater to the Approximately 12-15 Million Small Locally-Owned Businesses that Have an Immediate Need for an SUV, Truck, or Van, But Do Not Want to Make a Long Term Financial Commitment for a Vehicle or a Fleet of Vehicles, or Lack the Cash or Credit for a Traditional Vehicle Finance or Lease
PHILADELPHIA, PA, USA, April 2 2025 – DriveItAway Holdings, Inc. ( OTC Marketplace: DWAY) (“DriveItAway” and “Company”), an automotive industry leader in new digital mobility platforms with its unique “flexible-lease/subscription to purchase” technology, continues to gain traction and visibility in its mission to enable all to drive, and then buy, affordable quality personal transportation, announces today the expansion of its service to small commercial fleet businesses, who find it difficult to buy or lease vehicles through traditional channels, with its newly created “DriveItAway Business Preferred” Program.
To jump-start this endeavor, DriveItAway is partnering with Sherb Brown, a long-time fleet industry veteran, and his company, Fleet-Connection, which maintains one of the most comprehensive database and marketing engine for the millions of small fleet owners, who are “under the radar” in comparison to large, traditional fleet operators. Brown is the former President of Bobit Business Media and was the Group Publisher of major fleet publications, including Heavy Duty Trucking and Work Truck, along with general commercial-focused Websites and live events.
“A long time ago, I started in the automotive business on the fleet and small commercial side, first as a franchise dealer, and I then helped design and present the dealer-based small commercial fleet education and training programs for Ford, General Motors and Jaguar,” says John F. Possumato, Founder & CEO of DriveItAway, “then, as now, one of the stumbling blocks for a new or small local business in acquiring needed vehicles is the credit requirements from both manufacturer captive finance companies and banks, who usually require three years in business and a strong balance sheet, something that a lot of small businesses do not have, especially new ones. In addition, many small businesses have seasonal or contract work, which may require a work truck or van for just six months or a year, where a conventional purchase or lease just won’t work. Our DriveItAway ‘Business Preferred’ open-ended, no obligation flexible lease now offers the new perfect alternative.”
“Right now smaller fleets have access to the right inventory of vehicles, trucks, or vans to fill all needs,” says Sherb Brown, CEO of Fleet-Connection, “but many times the optimal means to acquire these vehicles does not exist. In many cases these small businesses are shut out of traditional commercial financing or leasing due to credit or years in business requirements, or have seasonal or contract work, where owning or long-term leasing vehicles wouldn’t be the right decision.” continues Brown, “this is the niche that DriveItAway’s Business Preferred flexible lease alternative fits, and we are excited to work with John and his team to add some visibility to the program.”
This latest expansion to open up a new market of small commercial (non-gig) fleet follows directly with DriveItAway’s 2025 goals as stated in the Company’s ‘Year End Message to Shareholders.’
“In January, I said that in addition to expanding our business to include small commercial fleet sales, our two other Company goals for 2025 are to increase our own vehicle credit line, and to continue to make ‘strong and deep industry alliances.’ In February, we were fortunate enough to announce that we increased our line and that Menachem Light, a true industry icon, has agreed to Chair our newly created Board of Advisors,” continues Possumato, “now in pursuing our goal to expand our services to small commercial fleet customers, it is particularly rewarding to be working with Sherb Brown, as he and I have known each other now for over three decades. Automotive fleet has always fundamentally been a people business, and with Sherb, we are working with the best in fleet.”
About DriveItAway Holdings, Inc. DriveItAway Holdings, Inc. is the first national dealer-focused mobility platform that enables car dealers to sell more vehicles in a seamless way through eCommerce, with its exclusive flexible lease app-based subscription. DriveItAway provides a comprehensive, turn-key, solutions-driven program with proprietary mobile technology and driver app, insurance coverages, and training to get dealerships up and running quickly and profitably in emerging online sales opportunities, to gain sales and market share.
This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” or “potential” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases which are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and which do not relate solely to historical matters. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, and may cause actual results to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. All forward-looking statements reflect our good faith beliefs, assumptions, and expectations, but they are not guarantees of future performance. We caution investors not to unduly rely on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.
SHANGHAI and BURLINGTON, Mass., April 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC) (“Cerence AI”), a global leader pioneering conversational AI-powered user experiences, today announced that it has received a Best Contribution Award at the 2025 ECARX Partnership Conference, held on March 11, 2025, in Hangzhou, China. ECARX, a global automotive technology provider partnering with OEMs to accelerate the future of software-defined vehicles, presented the award in recognition of Cerence AI’s extensive contributions as a trusted, long-term partner delivering cutting-edge, AI-driven solutions to ECARX and its OEM customers. This is the second consecutive year that Cerence AI has been recognized with this award.
ECARX and Cerence AI are long-term partners, having collaborated since ECARX’s founding in 2017 on automotive programs across a range of Geely brands, including innovative Audio AI solutions and multilingual support in vehicle infotainment systems – all contributing to Geely’s global expansion. This joint effort has also delivered advanced AI-powered voice assistants to enhance the driving experience in Geely’s Proton-, smart-, and Lotus-brand vehicles, as well as equip the entire Lynk & Co lineup with AI capabilities to appeal to the European market.
Most recently, the companies expanded their partnership to enable ECARX to deploy Cerence’s generative AI-powered solutions to create a more intuitive and integrated experience for smart drivers. In addition, leveraging Cerence AI’s extensive global language capabilities, the ECARX Antora 1000 platform – deployed in the Hongqi 007/009 models – featured enhanced voice functionalities, including English language speech recognition and text-to-speech capabilities in 17 languages, supporting Hongqi’s expansion into global markets.
“It’s an honor to be acknowledged for the second year in a row by our long-term partners at ECARX for our continuous effort and innovation,” said Christian Mentz, Chief Revenue Officer, Cerence AI. “Cerence’s AI-powered, intuitive solutions are a core component of ECARX’s innovative computing platforms. Together, we aim to consistently deliver unparalleled value to automakers, fostering the evolution of AI-driven user experiences across China and in global markets.”
To learn more about Cerence AI, visit www.cerence.ai, and follow the company on LinkedIn.
About Cerence Inc. Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC) is a global industry leader in creating intuitive, seamless, AI-powered experiences across automotive and transportation. Leveraging decades of innovation and expertise in voice, generative AI, and large language models, Cerence powers integrated experiences that create safer, more connected, and more enjoyable journeys for drivers and passengers alike. With more than 500 million cars shipped with Cerence technology, the company partners with leading automakers, transportation OEMs, and technology companies to advance the next generation of user experiences. Cerence is headquartered in Burlington, Massachusetts, with operations globally and a worldwide team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of AI innovation. For more information, visit www.cerence.ai.
About ECARX ECARX (Nasdaq: ECX) is a global automotive technology provider with capabilities to deliver turnkey solutions for next-generation smart vehicles, from the system on a chip (SoC), to central computing platforms, and software. As automakers develop new electric vehicle architectures from the ground up, ECARX is developing full-stack solutions to enhance the user experience, while reducing complexity and cost.
Founded in 2017 and listed on the Nasdaq in 2022, ECARX now has over 1,800 employees based in 12 major locations in China, UK, USA, Sweden, Germany and Malaysia. To date, ECARX products can be found in over 7.3 million vehicles worldwide.
Eight leading Scottish games companies are to showcase their products and expertise to a global audience.
They will leave on 5th April for a two week visit to Japan, one of the world’s biggest and most influential gaming markets, which will see them meet potential new investors, customers and commercial contacts.
In Tokyo they will be based at Tunnel Tokyo, a startup incubator operated by the SEGA Sammy group and venture capital firm Pegasus Ventures.
They will then showcase their products at a Scottish Government event focused on gaming at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, which expects to host over 28 million attendees from all over the world.
The visit has been developed as part of the Scottish Government’s Techscaler programme. Participants range from Blazing Griffin a Glasgow-based multi-media entertainment company spanning games, film and post-production, to Dundee based Konglomerate Games and Edinburgh company GLITCHERS, whose products include games technology aimed at the healthcare sector,
Speaking during a visit to Blazing Griffin, Business Minister Richard Lochhead said:
“Japan is synonymous with gaming technology and, with a market valued at around $50 billion, it offers phenomenal economic opportunities for our own, hugely talented Scottish sector.
“Techscaler is about helping entrepreneurs unleash their ability to innovate, spearheading Scotland’s presence in expanding new markets.
“Techscaler Japan will present some of our most exciting gaming start-ups with considerable opportunities to unlock further investment, develop new commercial partnerships and drive and showcase their businesses on a global stage.”
Blazing Griffin’s Co-Head of Games, Justin Alae-Carew said:
“We’re incredibly excited to take part in Techscaler’s market visit to Japan. Japan is not only an incredible consumer and producer of games, but also home to a fantastic array of multi-media intellectual property (IP). We see huge opportunity in exploring cross-border partnership with a specific focus on IP – either Japanese IP coming to the West or Western IP gaining foothold in Japan.
“The multi-media lens by which Japan views IP is also something for us to learn from and given our capabilities across film and games at Blazing Griffin, we’re uniquely positioned to take advantage of the opportunities raised by that approach.”
Head of Bridge Programmes at CodeBase, delivery partner of Techscaler, Ruth Oliver said:
“The companies selected to join the first Japan cohort represent some of Scotland’s most exciting and promising companies from the gaming sector, and while some are further down the commercial path than others, what they all have in common is a global mindset.
“With the opportunity to make valuable industry connections and gain insights and learnings, the programme offers the companies a golden chance to win customers and take their business to the next level in one of the world’s most dynamic and important markets.”
Background
The companies participating in the visit are:
BearHammer Games (Glasgow), a virtual reality projects and game developer
Konglomerate Games (Dundee) develops video game technology for sectors like healthcare and education.
Buildstash (Glasgow), which helps game developers manage iOS and Android apps
Yaldi Games (Edinburgh) which develops education-focused software.
Speech Graphics (Edinburgh) which develops facial animation technology
Blazing Griffin (Glasgow) a film and games producer and post-production developer.
Wardog Studios (Edinburgh) which develops virtual reality weapons and vehicles
GLITCHERS (Edinburgh) a game developer whose titles include a game used to support dementia research
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai takes place from 13 April to 13 October. It is an international event at which countries, organisations and companies showcase innovations, cultural exchanges and solutions to global challenges. It is expected to attract about 28 million visitors and more than 150 participating countries.
Scotland’s spotlight event on gaming and consumer industries will be held on 17 April at the UK Pavilion. Scottish Enterprise is supporting the three events for Scotland at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai is available on SDI’s website.
The Scottish Government is investing £42 million in Techscaler. Nearly 1,000 Scottish companies are now involved in the programme.