FT Japan AlphaDEX ETF UK Regulatory Announcement: Net Asset Value(s)
StarHub Partners with MATRIXX Software to Build giga!
Civic and Coincover Announce the First-of-its-Kind Crypto Wallet With a $1 Million Protection Guarantee
BearingPoint case study: Hero prepares for the future with digitally harmonized supply chain
New South Wales Police Force and IDEMIA Extend Partnership to Strengthen Criminal Identification System
Nonstick Cookware Market 2019-2023 | Awareness About Healthy Cooking to Boost Growth | Technavio
Dzing Announces Launch of Its New Banking App
Sony Pictures Networks India and WWE® Expand Partnership in India
KDDI Shanghai receives UiPath award for outstanding contribution to sales in China
TANAKA Memorial Foundation Announces Recipients of Precious Metals Research Grants
-
Cookware Market 2019-2023 | Growth in Online Sales to Boost Growth | Technavio
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--#CookwareMarket--Technavio has been monitoring the cookware market and it is poised to grow by USD 5.61 billion during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of over 4% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request latest free sample report of 2020-2024 The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Groupe SEB, Hawkins Cookers, Newell Brands, TTK Prestige, and Werhahn Group are some of the major market participants. The growth in online sales will offer immense growth opportunities. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Growth in online sales has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Cookware Market 2019-2023 : Segmentation Cookware Market is segmented as below: Material Aluminum Stainless Steel Others Geographic Landscape Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download latest free sample report of 2020-2024: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30230 Cookware Market 2019-2023 : Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our cookware market report covers the following areas: Cookware Market Size Cookware Market Trends Cookware Market Industry Analysis This study identifies growing emphasis on cookware aesthetics and functionality as one of the prime reasons driving the cookware market growth during the next few years. Cookware Market 2019-2023 : Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the cookware market, including some of the vendors such as Groupe SEB, Hawkins Cookers, Newell Brands, TTK Prestige, and Werhahn Group. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the cookware market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Cookware Market 2019-2023 : Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist cookware market growth during the next five years Estimation of the cookware market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the cookware market Analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of cookware market vendors Table Of Contents : PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE · Market ecosystem · Market characteristics · Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING · Market definition · Market sizing 2018 · Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS · Bargaining power of buyers · Bargaining power of suppliers · Threat of new entrants · Threat of substitutes · Threat of rivalry · Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY MATERIAL · Market segmentation by material · Comparison by material · Aluminum - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · Stainless steel - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · Others - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · Market opportunity by material PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE · Geographic segmentation · Geographic comparison · APAC - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · EMEA - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · Americas - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 · Key leading countries · Market opportunity PART 09: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 10: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES · Market drivers · Market challenges PART 11: MARKET TRENDS PART 12: VENDOR LANDSCAPE · Overview · Landscape disruption · Competitive scenario PART 13: VENDOR ANALYSIS · Vendors covered · Vendor classification · Market positioning of vendors · Groupe SEB · Hawkins Cookers · Newell Brands · TTK Prestige · Werhahn Group PART 14: APPENDIX0 · Research methodology · List of abbreviations PART 15: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio’s report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio’s comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.comWebsite: www.technavio.com/
-
Altice and Hot Informed Partner of the Withdrawal of Their Acquisition Proposal
ROSH HA'AYIN, Israel--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Partner Communications Company Ltd. ("Partner" or the "Company") (NASDAQ and TASE: PTNR), a leading Israeli communications operator, informs its shareholders, following its reports dated January 29, 2020 and February 5, 2020 regarding the binding offer made by HOT Telecommunication Systems Ltd. ("Hot") and its controlling shareholder, Altice Europe N.V. ("Altice"), that Altice and Hot have withdrawn their acquisition proposal by way of merger. Over the course of the last two months, and notwithstanding the burden imposed on the Company due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Board of the Company evaluated the proposed transaction and its attractiveness, in an effort to improve the terms thereof, while ensuring adequate protection of the rights of the Company’s shareholders in the event that the proposed merger is not completed. In the context of this process, (a) the Board retained the services of an internationally recognized financial advisor and an independent valuator, (b) the Board assessed the price underlying the proposed transaction in light of an independent evaluation conducted specifically for the purposes of this process and taking into account the changing market conditions, (c) the Board analyzed the required regulatory approvals for the proposed transaction, (d) the Board considered the risks faced by the Company during the acquisition process, the estimated monetary ramifications of such risks and the impact of the uncertainty on the company’s day-to-day operations, and (e) several drafts of the merger agreement were exchanged between the Company and Hot and Altice and the proposed terms were discussed and reviewed by the Board and a sub-committee of the Board with the assistance of Partner's financial and legal advisors. During such period, and despite the pandemic outbreak and its effect on the market in general and on the Company in particular, the Board conducted numerous meetings and internal deliberations, together with its financial and legal advisors, in an effort to make progress with the proposed transaction. On March 17, 2020 the Board advised Hot and Altice through its legal advisors that it resolved to engage in the next phase of the discussions in connection with the proposed Transaction based on certain terms and understandings previously discussed between the parties. In order to verify the ability of Altice to consummate the transaction, the Board asked to receive from Altice the commitment letter of the financing bank of Altice containing such bank’s undertaking to finance the Transaction (the "Bank Letter"). As the Bank Letter was not received, on March 28, 2020, the Board advised Altice that it required same to be provided to the Company by March 31, 2020. In addition, the Board reiterated some of the major open issues that required resolution, namely the certainty of payment of a termination fee by Altice and Hot if the Transaction were derailed and the guarantee of Hot’s obligations by entities in the Altice group. In the late evening of March 30, 2020, Mr. Dexter Goei responded on behalf of Altice and advised that Altice cannot continue with the negotiations, and it is therefore terminating all further discussions. The reasons mentioned by Altice were the rapidly deteriorating economic situation and bleak prospects for a short recovery and, according to Altice, it is now clear that the parties are very far from being able to meet the timeline anticipated by Altice and still have many issues (including two issues mentioned in the above letter) that have not been agreed upon yet. The Company intends to continue its current business development and business expansion and to pursue its standalone business strategy, as planned prior to the receipt of the unsolicited offer from Altice and Hot. Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "estimate", “believe”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “intend”, “seek”, “will”, “plan”, “could”, “may”, “project”, “goal”, “target” and similar expressions often identify forward-looking statements but are not the only way we identify these statements. About Partner Communications Partner Communications Company Ltd. is a leading Israeli provider of telecommunications services (cellular, fixed-line telephony, internet and television services). Partner’s ADSs are quoted on the NASDAQ Global Select Market™ and its shares are traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (NASDAQ and TASE: PTNR). For more information about Partner see:http://www.partner.co.il/en/Investors-Relations/lobby/ Contacts Mr. Tamir AmarChief Financial OfficerTel: +972-54-781-4951 Ms. Liat Glazer ShaftHead of Investor Relations & Corporate ProjectsTel: +972-54-781-5051E-mail: investors@partner.co.il
-
12th Asia Pacific General Galvanizing Conference to Be Held in Yokohama in 2022
YOKOHAMA, Japan, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The 12th Asia Pacific General Galvanizing Conference (APGGC) will be held in Yokohama from May 29 (Sun.) to June 2 (Thurs.), 2022. Drawing 350 participants from around the world, this will be the second time for Japan to host the conference, the last time being 28 years ago in 1994. Under the concept of "For a Sustainable Future: Think Zinc!," the event will feature presentations about world-class technology, as well as about products and technologies regarding general (batch) hot-dip galvanizing from companies around the world. The conference is expected to attract participants from the industry as a whole, including corrosion specialists, steel producers and fabricators. Japan's bid to host the conference was successful for a number of reasons, including the proposal made by the Japanese host, Japan Galvanizers Association, Inc., that showcased its traditions and high standards, the association's passion and vision, the convenient access by public transport of the host city, Yokohama, Japan's reputation as a safe country, and the cooperative partnership among everyone involved in the bid, including the national and local governments. These aspects were viewed highly by Asia Pacific General Galvanizing Association members, who voted unanimously to hold the conference in Japan. Yokohama Convention & Visitors Bureau and Pacific Convention Plaza Yokohama (PACIFICO Yokohama) extended assistance to Japan Galvanizers Association, Inc. with its bid to host the conference in Japan. Conference overview Name: 12th Asia Pacific General Galvanizing Conference (APGGC) Dates: May 29 (Sun.) to June 2 (Thurs.), 2022 Venue: PACIFICO Yokohama Conference Center Estimated attendance: 350 (250 from outside Japan) Estimated countries represented: Approx. 25 countries and regions Conference theme: "For a Sustainable Future: Think Zinc!" Photo: Scene from 11th Asia Pacific General Galvanizing Conferencehttps://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M102118/202003278547/_prw_PI1fl_308k1TiC.jpg Past Conferences: 2019: Bangkok, Thailand2016: Bali, Indonesia2013: Singapore2010: Taipei, Taiwan2007: Beijing, Mainland China *Japan Galvanizers Association, Inc. (JGA) Through the elevation of galvanizing technologies and improvements to business management, the JGA strives for the sound development of the industry, seeking to strengthen the erosion-proof and rust-proof functions of galvanizing on iron and steel to improve the quality of steel structures. Through wide-ranging promotion of this technology, it aims to contribute to the enhancement of social capital, conservation of resources, and protection of the global environment. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/12th-asia-pacific-general-galvanizing-conference-to-be-held-in-yokohama-in-2022-301032250.html
-
Kayrros and Copernicus Images Allow Quantification of Global Methane Leaks Equivalent to 1.8 Gigatons of CO² Emissions
Kayrros announces new technology for the identification of methane emissions on global scale and important contribution to the reduction of climate change PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--#Kayrros--Kayrros SAS, a leading global asset observation platform, is today announcing the latest findings from its technology to track, quantify and attribute global methane emissions. Kayrros uses data from the European Space Agency (ESA) Copernicus program’s Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite and has built a detection and quantification model to trace emissions back to their source. These unique and comprehensive findings show that: Methane emissions can now be detected and quantified at an asset level on a global scale, which represents a major step-change in the ability to work towards the reduction of man-made emissions. The data shows that there are around 100 high volume-emitting events at any one time around the world. Together, in the course of one year, they are releasing 20 megatons of methane which is equivalent to 1.8 gigatons of CO2 in the first twenty years.1 Through its proprietary attribution model, Kayrros can identify that around one half of that CO2 equivalent in the first twenty years, or 1 gigaton, are in regions with heavy industry such as oil & gas, coal mining, etc. This is equivalent to the total annual CO2 emissions of Germany and France together.2 Kayrros is a leading Earth observation analytics player able to combine extensive mapping of assets, deep sectoral understanding, and complex machine learning algorithms as well as detection and quantification models in order to identify the missing link between concentrations and emissions. “What we are announcing today is ground-breaking,” says Antoine Rostand, CEO of Kayrros. “The combination of Sentinel 5-P satellite imagery and Kayrros technology represents a world first in the ability to track and attribute these substantial individual methane leaks. The good news is most of these are man-made and can easily be addressed through action by individual companies, governments and regulators.” Claus Zehner, Sentinel 5-P Mission manager at ESA, says, “We are pleased to support Kayrros in its use of the Sentinel 5-P data to develop new tools for global methane emissions monitoring. Europe’s investment into satellite technology is ever more crucial if it can support the reduction of global emissions and slow down climate change.” Kayrros has presented its methodology and approach to the European Commission and its Directorate General for Energy. The upcoming European strategy to reduce methane emissions will include a methodology for methane measurement and quantification that builds on Copernicus and other satellite data for detection and validation. Kayrros remains in dialogue with the European Commission about its work. Kayrros has also worked with LSCE3 scientists on Sentinel 5-P imagery to identify and quantify thousands of major methane plumes from various sources around the world. Thomas Lauvaux from the LSCE comments, “To date, only a handful of these large anthropogenic sources have been documented. To expand this, as Kayrros technology does, constitutes a significant step toward mitigating methane emissions around the globe, a significant contributor to climate change, with the support of operators who now have the required information to take immediate action.” Antoine Rostand emphasizes, “The consequences of these findings are immense, as they enable individual companies in the energy sector to identify and address methane leaks across their networks. Equally, governments and regulators should take note that access to such detailed emissions data will drastically change their ability to hold emitters accountable and potentially reverse the trend of ever-increasing emissions rates.” This technology is now available to the industry for immediate implementation. About Kayrros Kayrros is the leading global asset observation platform worldwide. Harnessing satellite imagery and unconventional data with machine learning, natural language processing and advanced mathematics, Kayrros delivers focused monitoring and measurement of energy and natural resource activity around the world. With access to data on more than 200,000 industry assets, Kayrros customers can observe individual or multiple assets in proprietary or multi-client workflows to analyse industrial and environmental performance for the insight needed to make optimal operational and financial decisions. For more information, please visit www.kayrros.com. 1 1 ton of methane is equivalent to 84 tons of CO2 in the first 20 years (Environment Defense Fund). 2 Based on World bank Databank on CO2 emissions for 2014 3 Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l’Environnement Contacts Kekst CNCElvira Eilert Pignalelvira.pignal@kekstcnc.com, +33 6 37 23 68 36 Richard Rigbyrichard.rigby@kekstcnc.com, +44 7970 767607 Thomas Cooperthomas.cooper@kekstcnc.com, +44 7983 921719
-
Juniper Research: IoT Connections to Reach 83 Billion by 2024, Driven by Maturing Industrial Use Cases
BASINGSTOKE, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)--#IoT--A new study from Juniper Research found that the total number of IoT connections will reach 83 billion by 2024, rising from 35 billion connections in 2020. This represents a growth of 130% over the next 4 years. The research identified the industrial sector as a key driver of this growth. It forecast that this expansion will be driven by the increasing use of private networks that leverage cellular networks standards. For more insights on the IoT, download our free whitepaper: IoT ~ The Internet of Transformation 2020. Industrial Sector to Account for 60 Billion IoT Connections The new research, The Internet of Things: Consumer, Industrial & Public Services 2020-2024, found that the industrial sector, including manufacturing, retail and agriculture, will account for over 70% of all IoT connections by 2024. It anticipated that the emergence of cost-efficient private cellular networks would be a key driver of growth over the next 4 years, and expects that the recent increase in demand for private LTE networks will carry forward to private 5G networks as the cost of the technology decreases over the next 2 years. The research forecast that the number of industrial IoT units in service will grow 180% over the next 4 years. Research co-author Sam Barker noted, “Industrial networks will need to scale rapidly as industrial IoT users adopt new technologies to expand the services available on their networks. However, IoT platforms must ensure that the security processes can scale alongside this network growth.” Growing Networks Raise New Security Concerns The research noted that the increasing complexity of private IoT networks will mean that platforms must implement steps to maximise security in all layers of the IoT ecosystem, including devices, connectivity and the platform itself. The research urged vendors to implement security procedures that are highly scalable and can cope as network architectures become increasingly complex. It suggested two key areas of focus; the use of network segmentation to mitigate the risks of lateral movement cybersecurity attacks and ensuring that the lifecycle management of network assets is properly maintained. Juniper Research provides research and analytical services to the global hi-tech communications sector; providing consultancy, analyst reports and industry commentary. Contacts Sam Smith Press Relations T: +44(0)1256 830002 E: sam.smith@juniperresearch.com
-
ECR Minerals plc UK Regulatory Announcement: Annual Financial Report
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AIM: ECR ECR MINERALS plc (“ECR Minerals”, “ECR” or the “Company”) AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2019 LONDON: 31 MARCH 2020 - ECR Minerals plc is pleased to announce its audited financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2019. The information presented below has been extracted from the Company’s Annual Report and Accounts 2019. Copies of the Annual Report and Accounts 2019 will be posted to shareholders today and will be available on the Company’s website (www.ecrminerals.com). The text of the notice convening the Company’s annual general meeting, which will be posted to shareholders shortly, is provided below. The Company intends to holds its annual general meeting at 9am on 27 April 2020 at Chester House, 81-83 Fulham High Street, Fulham Green, London SW6 3JA. Following the recent Government restrictions placed on public gatherings as a result of COVID 19, the directors strongly urge all shareholders to vote by proxy, submitting such votes by no later than 9am on 23 April 2020. Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulations (EU) No. 596/2014 (MAR). Upon the publication of this announcement via Regulatory Information Service (RIS), this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: ECR Minerals plc Tel: +44 (0)20 7929 1010 David Tang, Non-Executive Chairman Craig Brown, Director & CEO Email: info@ecrminerals.com Website: www.ecrminerals.com WH Ireland Ltd Tel: +44 (0)161 832 2174 Nominated Adviser Katy Mitchell/James Sinclair-Ford SI Capital Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1483 413 500 Broker Nick Emerson FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This announcement may include forward looking statements. Such statements may be subject to numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and therefore actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date hereof (unless stated otherwise) and, except as may be required by applicable laws or regulations (including the AIM Rules for Companies), the Company disclaims any obligation to update or modify such forward-looking statements because of new information, future events or for any other reason. The Directors of ECR Minerals plc (the “Directors” or the “Board”) present their report and audited financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2019 for ECR Minerals plc (“ECR”, the “Company” or the “Parent Company”) and on a consolidated basis (the “Group”) Chairman’s Statement ECR’s focus is firmly on gold exploration in Australia, in both Victoria in the east of the country, and Western Australia. In Australia, ECR, through its wholly owned Australian subsidiary Mercator Gold Australia Pty Ltd (“MGA”), benefits from being part of one of the most active and successful gold mining and exploration industries in the world. This is all the more exciting given that the gold price is currently trading at levels not seen since 2013, despite recent falls and expected ongoing increased volatility associated with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on financial markets. Currently, the suspension of many international travel routes as well as domestic movement restrictions within the UK and Australia has affected the Group’s operations, but due to the nature of present activities, the impact has been minimal. In the medium term, we expect to be able to resume normal operations as restrictions are lifted. In the meantime, the Board will be taking measures to conserve cash where possible. Our thoughts go out to all those more severely affected by the pandemic. During the financial year ended 30 September 2019 and since the year-end, MGA has continued to develop its business through both exploration work and by rationalising its portfolio of projects. In the latter respect, the Company completed the sale of its Argentine subsidiary Ochre Mining SA (“Ochre”) in February 2020 and retains an NSR royalty of up to 2% to a maximum of USD 2.7 million in respect of future production from the SLM gold project. Further information on this transaction is provided in the Chief Executive Officer’s Report, the Strategic Report, and in Note 21 to the financial statements. In addition, post year-end, MGA has been granted five exploration licences which comprise the Windidda project in Western Australia, with a further four exploration licence applications withdrawn. Fieldwork has yet to begin at Windidda, but MGA has completed geophysical modelling and review of historical activity reports in order to better understand the potential prospectivity of the project. In Victoria, where the company is now concentrating on two projects, Bailieston and Creswick, a significant amount of boots-on-the-ground activity took place during the financial year under review. This included drilling at Bailieston and Creswick, and completion of whole-of-bag testing on drill samples from Creswick in an effort to better assess the degree of the nugget effect which pertains to the deposit. The results of these programmes are discussed in the Chief Executive Officer’s report. We look forward to further exciting developments in the year ahead. Weili (David) Tang Chairman Chief Executive Officer’s Report As in the previous financial year, the centre of the Group’s operations was Victoria, Australia, with significant exploration programmes completed in the Bailieston and Creswick gold project areas. With the gold price having traded at record levels in Australian dollar terms earlier this calendar year, there is currently a very high level of interest in gold exploration and mining in Australia, including in Victoria and Western Australia, and a number of expressions of interest in ECR’s projects have been received from third parties. Accordingly, as well as seeking to add value through our own exploration activities, the Company is actively considering potential transactions which may create value for the Company and its shareholders. BAILIESTON GOLD PROJECT, VICTORIA The westernmost part of the Bailieston project area is approximately 30km east of Kirkland Lake Gold’s renowned Fosterville gold mine, and abuts an exploration licence applied for by Newmont Exploration Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Newmont, one of the world’s largest gold mining companies, to the north. MGA completed drilling at two prospects within the Bailieston project area in the first quarter of calendar year 2019. Blue Moon Prospect, Bailieston During the financial year and since the year-end, the principal focus of work in the Bailieston project area has been the Blue Moon prospect, where reverse circulation (RC) drilling by MGA returned an intercept of 2 metres at 17.87 g/t gold within a zone of 15 metres at 3.81 g/t gold from 51 metres in hole BBM007, and confirmed the prospect as a new gold discovery. Twelve holes were drilled for a total of 1,718 metres, with other highlights including 3 metres at 3.88 g/t gold within a zone of 11 metres at 2.42 g/t gold from 169 metres in BBM006. The drilling results indicate that the host sandstone is thicker and the gold grades significantly higher on the westerly section, and further exploration will therefore seek to follow the system to the west, subject to agreeing access with landowners. Black Cat Prospect, Bailieston MGA completed a reconnaissance rotary air blast (RAB) drilling programme targeting numerous quartz reefs at the Black Cat prospect. A total of 18 shallow holes were completed for 485 metres of drilling. The Black Cat prospect is among the high priority targets identified by a geophysical interpretation and targeting study completed for MGA in late 2017. The prospect had never been drilled before. Significant intersections from the RAB programme included 7 metres at 1.76 g/t gold from 35 metres in hole BCD11, 3 metres at 4.26 g/t gold from 16 metres in BCD18, and 1 metre at 6.3 g/t gold from 18 metres in BCD03. These are encouraging results, and the potential for supergene enriched mineralisation at the water table interface and for deeper primary mineralisation could be investigated by further drilling. CRESWICK GOLD PROJECT, VICTORIA In February 2019 MGA completed a total of 1,687 metres of reverse circulation (RC) drilling in 17 holes at Creswick, targeting multiple quartz vein orientations within the Dimocks Main Shale (“DMS”). The initial results of RC drilling at Creswick by MGA were announced on 8 May 2019. Drilling identified more extensive quartz than anticipated, in a zone exceeding 60 metres in width (more than twice the 25 metres expected), with quartz identified in more than one third of the 1,687 metres drilled. Gold mineralisation was identified in the majority of holes, with grades in nine holes ranging from 0.6 g/t gold to 44.63 g/t gold (1.44 oz/t). MGA’s geologists hypothesised an extreme nuggety distribution of gold based on the results of drilling and other observations, including capturing a small 0.27 g nugget in gravity tests conducted on a single sample bag. In order to assess the significance of this effect, MGA’s consultants devised a testing program using gravity and electrostatic concentration (GEC) on full bags of RC drill cuttings, which would constitute the whole sample recovered from each metre of drilling (less sub-samples obtained at the time of drilling via a splitter mounted on the drill rig). In nuggety gold systems, increasing sample size increases the chance of nuggets being captured in the sample, and thus being appreciated as part of the gold endowment of the system. Typically, only a small sub-sample of the drill cuttings generated by each metre of RC drilling is analysed (assayed) for gold. In the case of MGA’s 2019 RC drilling at Creswick, two sub-samples of approximately 2 kilograms were obtained from the rig-mounted splitter, out of up to approximately 30 kilograms of cuttings per metre. The first sub-sample was sent for assay by the Leachwell method at Gekko Systems, an independent laboratory in Victoria, and the results were announced on 8 May 2019. Using the GEC method on the full bags, MGA was able to subject larger, more representative sample sizes to analysis. A total of 129 ‘full-bag’ samples were analysed using the GEC process. In parallel, 74 duplicate sub-samples obtained at the time of drilling via the rig-mounted splitter were analysed by the Leachwell method at Gekko Systems. This was done to enable comparison with the assay results (obtained by the same method) for the first set of sub-samples, to assist in classifying the nugget effect as extreme, major or minor. Grade variability due to the nugget effect was demonstrated by the results of the exercise, but some consistency between results was also seen, and indicates the nugget effect may be less severe than initially thought. Overall, MGA’s work at Creswick has confirmed the presence of nuggety gold mineralisation in the Dimocks Main Shale (DMS) at Creswick, some of which is very high grade. MGA’s tenement position at Creswick covers approximately 7 kilometres of the DMS trend, and the 2019 drilling only tested approximately 300 metres of this. ECR therefore believes there is significant potential upside in the project. More recently, MGA commissioned Dr Dennis Arne to carry out an alteration study of cuttings (chips) generated by the 2019 RC drilling at the Creswick project in 2019. Dr Arne is a preeminent consulting geochemist in Victoria, whose experience includes previous and on-going reviews of geochemistry at the highly successful Fosterville gold mine in Central Victoria owned by Kirkland Lake Gold. Dr Arne has been working with fresh (unoxidised) RC chips from Creswick to determine whether the observed quartz veining is associated with the presence of ferroan carbonate. Ferroan carbonate is intimately associated with all Central Victorian gold deposits that have not been contact metamorphosed. The amount of ferroan carbonate generally increases as mineralised structures are approached. It can therefore be used for vectoring within alteration systems associated with gold mineralisation, particularly when integrated with geochemical data, and can be used to distinguish between mineralised and non-mineralised quartz veins. The results of the study were announced on 27 March 2020, and showed good indications of hydrothermal fluid flow related to gold mineralisation in a number of drill holes at Creswick. Importantly, the variation in the results, with some areas ‘lighting up’ and others not, is potentially useful for identifying gold-bearing shoots. WINDIDDA GOLD PROJECT, WESTERN AUSTRALIA In late 2018, MGA applied for a total of nine exploration licences in Western Australia to comprise the Windidda project, of which five have now been granted. The remaining four licence applications have been withdrawn, in light of objections to the expedited grant procedure from native title parties and the findings of preliminary desktop work to assess the prospectivity of the licence areas. This work suggests that the southern parts of the project are potentially prospective for komatiite hosted nickel-copper-PGE (platinum group element) mineralisation, as well as orogenic gold. DANGLAY GOLD PROJECT, PHILIPPINES There were no significant developments with regard to the Danglay project during the financial year under review, nor have there been any since the year-end. Further information regarding the Company’s interest in the project is provided in the Strategic Report and Note 10 to the financial statements. DISPOSAL OF OCHRE MINING SA AND SLM GOLD PROJECT Subsequent to the year-end, the Company sold its wholly owned Argentine subsidiary Ochre Mining SA, which holds the SLM gold project in La Rioja, Argentina. The sale allows ECR to focus on its core gold exploration activities in Australia. The purchaser, Hanaq Argentina SA (“Hanaq”), is a Chinese-owned company engaged in lithium, base and precious metals exploration in Northwest Argentina including Salta, Jujuy and La Rioja, with a highly experienced management team. ECR retains an NSR royalty of up to 2% to a maximum of USD 2.7 million in respect of future production from the SLM gold project. The Directors believe that Hanaq has the operational capabilities and access to Chinese investment capital necessary to put the SLM project into production, subject to the usual prerequisites such as further exploration and feasibility studies being successfully completed (if deemed necessary by Hanaq) and to the necessary permits for production being obtained. The founder and CEO of Hanaq Group, of which Hanaq Argentina SA is part, is Mr Xiaohuan (Juan) Tang, who has a substantive track record in Latin America, including responsibility for the successful permitting of the Pampa de Pongo iron ore project in Peru in his former capacity as General Manager of Jinzhao Mining Peru. Pampa de Pongo is one of the largest iron ore deposits in Latin America. Mr Tang has degrees from Tsinghua University in China, and Imperial College, Cambridge University and Oxford University in the UK. FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2019 For the year to 30 September 2019 the Group recorded a total comprehensive loss of £762,586, a small increase compared with £721,460 for the year to 30 September 2018. The largest contributor to the total comprehensive loss was the line item “other administrative expenses”, which represents the costs of operating the Group and carrying out exploration at its projects, where these costs are ineligible for capitalisation under applicable accounting standards. Significant components include consultancy and professional fees, public relations and promotional activities, rent and travel expenses. The Group’s net assets at 30 September 2019 were £3,640,604, in comparison with £3,651,545 at 30 September 2018. The decrease is due to increased exploration assets as a result of the capitalisation of exploration expenditure during the year being offset by a reduction in cash and cash equivalents. The financial statements of the Company’s Argentine subsidiary Ochre Mining SA (which was sold subsequent to the year-end but remained a part of the group at 30 September 2019) were prepared in accordance with IAS 29 “Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies”. More information is provided in Note 2 to the Group financial statements. During the year, MGA received a significant cash refund under the Australian government’s R&D Tax Incentive scheme. MGA received a cash refund of qualifying research and development (R&D) expenditure of A$318,972 (approximately £171,000) in relation to MGA’s financial year ended 30 June 2018, and post-period received a further refund of A$555,212 (approximately £295,515) in relation to the fifteen month period ended 30 September 2019. In the second period, MGA’s financial year-end changed to 30 September from 30 June in order to align it with the rest of the Group. The qualifying R&D activities pertain to research into turbidite-hosted gold deposits within MGA’s exploration licences in Victoria. These two refunds have had a significant positive effect on the Group’s cash position. Craig Brown Chief Executive Officer Independent Auditor’s Report For the year ended 30 September 2019 Independent Auditor’s Report to the Members of ECR Minerals Plc Opinion We have audited the financial statements of ECR Minerals Plc (the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) for the year ended 30 September 2019 which comprise the Consolidated Income Statement, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated and Parent Company Statement of Financial Position, the Consolidated and Parent Company Statements of Changes in Equity, the Consolidated and Parent Company Statements of Cash Flows, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union and as regards the parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006. In our opinion: the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 30 September 2019 and of the group’s and parent company’s loss for the year then ended; the group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union; the parent company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard as applied to listed entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Material uncertainty related to going concern We draw attention to note 2 in the financial statements, which indicates that the Group’s ability to meet contracted and committed expenditure for the 12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements is reliant on further fundraising and additional cash inflows from the planned sale of assets. The total comprehensive loss for the Group during 2019 was £757,210, with cash outflows of £507,250, and a year-end cash balance in the Group of £268,517. The Group will require further funding within a period of 12 months from the date of approval of the 2019 financial statements in order to avoid a cash deficit, which is not yet committed. In addition, the potential impact of COVID-19, whilst not yet fully understood, will likely have an impact on the operations of the business and the ability to raise additional equity funds. As stated in note 2, these events or conditions, along with the other matters as set forth in the Chairman’s statement in relation to COVID-19, indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s and Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter. Our application of materiality Group materiality 2019 Group materiality 2018 Basis for materiality £60,000 £50,000 2% gross assets (2018: gross assets and loss before tax) Our calculated level of materiality has increased in comparison to the previous year. The reason for this is the increase in gross assets. We believe assets to be the main driver of the business as the Group is still in the exploration stage and therefore no revenues are currently being generated. From a group perspective the key benchmark is gross assets, given that current and potential investors will be most interested in the recoverability of the exploration and evaluation assets. Whilst materiality for the financial statements as a whole was set at £60,000, each significant component of the Group was audited to an overall materiality ranging between £20,000 - £42,000 with performance materiality set at 70%. We applied the concept of materiality both in planning and performing our audit, and in evaluating the effect of misstatements. We agreed with the audit committee that we would report to the committee all audit differences identified during the course of our audit in excess of £3,000 (2018: £2,500). There were no misstatements identified during the course of our audit that were individually, or in aggregate, considered to be material. An overview of the scope of our audit In designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risk of material misstatement in the financial statements. In particular, we looked at areas requiring the directors to make subjective judgements, for example in respect of significant accounting estimates including the carrying value of assets and the consideration of future events that are inherently uncertain. We also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the directors that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud. An audit was performed on the financial information of the group’s operating entities which for the year ended 31 December 2019 were located in the United Kingdom, Australia and Argentina. The group also has operations in the Philippines, for which a separate entity does not exist. The audit work on each significant component was performed by us as Group auditor to component materiality. Contacts ECR Minerals plc Read full story here
-
AM-Pharma Increases Funding to €163m for Phase-III Trial of recAP in SA-AKI
€23m [US$25.5m] equity provided mainly by US-based Cowen Healthcare Investments €24m [US$26.5m] finance facility provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Increased funding allows for finalization of all Marketing Authorization Application preparation activities UTRECHT, Netherlands--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AM-Pharma B.V. (‘AM-Pharma, the Company’), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company leading in the development of a treatment for acute kidney injury (AKI) with its innovative recombinant human Alkaline Phosphatase therapeutic (recAP), today announces that it has raised additional funds of €47m [US$52m], increasing the total recent fundraising to €163m [US$176m]. This new capital will be used to support a multi-national pivotal Phase III trial of recAP in 1,400 patients with sepsis-associated-acute kidney injury (SA-AKI). It also allows the Company to fund the steps required to submit Marketing Authorization Applications following the trial’s completion, including CMC validation and commercial manufacture. €23m has been mainly provided by Cowen Healthcare Investments, an affiliate of Cowen Inc., which joins the existing investor syndicate of LSP and Andera Partners, Forbion, Ysios Capital, Kurma Partners, ID Invest Partners, BB Pureos Bioventures and Gilde Healthcare that raised an initial €116m in July 2019. The additional €24m has been provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB), under the “Infectious Diseases Finance Facility” (IDFF) of the InnovFin – EU-Finance for Innovators program, which is financed from the EU’s research and innovation program, Horizon 2020. AKI is a devastating disease, with a high mortality rate which affects millions of patients worldwide and has no approved pharmacological treatments. The most important cause of AKI is sepsis.1,2 AM-Pharma was awarded Fast Track designation by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2016 and recAP has the potential to be a first-in-class medicine for SA-AKI. The Phase III trial in recAP will be the largest clinical trial in SA-AKI, seeking to enroll up to 1,400 patients with SA-AKI at sites in approximately 12 countries. Erik van den Berg, AM-Pharma’s CEO commented: “This additional capital adds to the financing in July 2019, with the addition of the respected Cowen Healthcare Investments team to our international investor syndicate and support from the EIB. The Cowen team not only provides additional funds but also vast experience that can be drawn upon. We are also delighted with the award of funds from the EIB which is a great supporter of innovative medicines and will enable the building of our company.” He added, “The funds raised for our recAP Phase III trial is now at €163m which will also support further marketing application readiness activities. The support from our shareholders and the EIB highlights the urgent medical need in SA-AKI and recAP’s potential to treat this indication. We look forward to working with our expanded investor syndicate and continuing work on recAP’s path to market.” Tim Anderson at Cowen added “AM-Pharma has completed a robust 301 patient Phase II trial in SA-AKI, following a clear path based on regulatory feedback and the team has significant expertise in the field of acute kidney injury. We believe that recAP has the potential to be an important treatment option for AKI and other indications of high unmet medical need. We look forward to working with the team and the rest of the investors throughout the Phase III trial and beyond.” References 1. Lameire NH, Bagga A, Cruz D, et al. Acute kidney injury: an increasing global concern. Lancet. 2013; 382(9887):170-179. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(13) 60647-9 2. Hoste EA, Bagshaw SM, Bellomo R, et al. Epidemiology of acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: the multinational AKI-EPI study. Intensive Care Med 2015;41:1411–23. Notes to Editors About AM-Pharma AM-Pharma is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, leading in the development of a treatment for acute kidney injury (AKI) with its innovative recombinant human Alkaline Phosphatase therapeutic (recAP). AKI affects millions of patients worldwide. It is a devastating disease with high mortality rate and no approved pharmacological treatments. AM-Pharma reported positive results from a Phase II study of recAP in patients with sepsis associated AKI (SA-AKI) and the Company is preparing to initiate a pivotal Phase III trial of recAP in patients with SA-AKI. AM-Pharma is also exploring the development of recAP for other indications. Founded in 2001, AM-Pharma is a private company that is based in the Netherlands. The Company is backed by a strong syndicate of international investors, both Venture Capital funds and Corporate Venture Funds, and has raised over €240m in equity and debt to date. Find out more about us online at: www.am-pharma.com. About Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) involves inflammatory processes in the kidney which can lead to complete loss of renal function. Hospital-acquired AKI affects annually around 3 million patients in Europe, the US and Japan, and is associated with mortality in roughly 700,000 patients. It occurs in 40-60% of critical care admissions. Depending on the severity and cause of renal injury, mortality ranges from 10% to as high as 60%. In the US alone, hospitals spend around $10 billion each year on managing this major medical problem. The most important causes of AKI are sepsis, cardiovascular surgery, exposure to nephrotoxic drugs and trauma. Currently the only treatment options are dialysis and supportive care. No drugs are approved to treat this condition. Typically, these patients are treated in Intensive Care Units, often with support of nephrologists.1,2,3,4 References U.S. Food and Drug Administration; available at http://www.fda.gov/ForPatients/Approvals/Fast/ucm405399.htm Murugan R. and Kellum J.A., (2011) Nat Rev Nephrol. Vol 7: 209-217 Heung M. and Chawla L., (2014) Nephron Clin Pract. Vol 127: 30-34 Chertow et al., (2005) J Am Soc Nephrol. Vol 16: 3365-3370 Soc Nephrol. Vol 16: 3365-3370 AKI – recAP Mechanism of Action Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a severe inflammation and damage of the kidney resulting in a sudden drop in kidney function, which can sometimes result in complete kidney failure. AM-Pharma has discovered that one key function of the enzyme Alkaline Phosphatase (AP) is to protect organs against inflammation and tissue damage. AP acts as a detoxifying agent by removing phosphate from extracellular substrates. The dephosphorylation of pro-inflammatory substances like lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and extracellular ATP plays an important anti-inflammatory role. Research has shown that ATP dephosphorylation has a double effect in protecting against kidney injury. When the pro-inflammatory ATP is dephosphorylated the resulting adenosine further reduces inflammation through the activation of the immunosuppressive adenosine A2a receptor pathway (A2aR). About recAP AM-Pharma’s therapeutic candidate, recAP (recombinant Alkaline Phosphatase), is a proprietary recombinant human AP constructed from two naturally occurring human isoforms of the AP enzyme. recAP is highly stable and active and has a dual mechanism of action via dephosphorylation of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and extracellular ATP. AM-Pharma has shown that treatment of patients with exogenous AP not only reduces local and systemic inflammation but also protects the kidney against further damage. Awarded fast track designation by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2016, recAP has the potential to be a first-in-class medicine. The results of an adaptive Phase II STOP-AKI study of recAP in 301 sepsis patients with AKI were published in 2018 in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). recAP demonstrated a significant relative reduction in mortality of more than 40% in the treatment group compared to the placebo group without any safety observations of concern. AM-Pharma is now preparing for the pivotal Phase III study of recAP in patients with sepsis associated kidney injury. About Cowen Healthcare Investments Cowen Healthcare Investments is an investment manager affiliated with Cowen Inc. Cowen Healthcare Investments manages a series of investment funds focused on investing in private healthcare companies across the biopharma, diagnostics and digital health sectors. Founded in 2012, the firm is headquartered in New York. Learn more at www.cowen.com. Additional Financing Information related to the EU support via the EIB finance facility Under Horizon 2020, the EU Research and Innovation Framework Programme for 2014-20, the ‘Infectious Diseases Finance Facility (IDFF)’ provides financial products ranging from standard debt to equity-type financing for amounts typically between EUR 7.5 million and EUR 75 million, to innovative players active in developing innovative vaccines, drugs, medical and diagnostic devices or novel research infrastructures for combatting infectious diseases. Project costs may include clinical trial costs, set-up of commercialization such as market access, development of prototypes or industrial roll out of novel equipment, pre-clinical R&D costs and working capital requirement. This facility is delivered directly by the EIB, which so far has made available EUR 241 million under the InnovFin IDFF. Contacts At the CompanyAM-PharmaErik van den Berg, CEO e.vandenberg@am-pharma.com For media enquiriesInstinctif Partners (UK/RoW)Ashley Tapp/Phil Marriage +44 (0)20 7866 7923 AM-Pharma@instinctif.com LifeSpring Communications (NL)Leon Melens +31 (0) 6 538 16 427 lmelens@lifespring.nl
-
University of Nottingham Ningbo China Provides Students Living on Campus With a Safe Environment
NINGBO, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--While the COVID-19 pandemic rages around the world, China has recently seen case numbers drop to low-levels. At the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), located on the east coast of China, a few international students have been living on campus throughout the outbreak, with no reported case of coronavirus to date. The timing of the outbreak came just as winter break started at UNNC. Students who didn’t leave for vacation were allowed to continue living in dorms. Liam, a year four international student, is one of them. Originally from Saudi Arabia, Liam said he considered risks of travelling home outweighed that of staying. Every day, he received updates and guidance on disease prevention from his personal tutor. “I’m well informed of the national epidemic controls and local measures against the coronavirus,” Liam said. “We have restricted time to go in and outside of campus, but so far, not a lot has changed in life because of the effort everyone has put in to help us adjust.” Since January, UNNC has made a series of COVID-19 contingency plans – including moving all teaching online - to protect the health and safety of the staff and students. Beside increased sanitation efforts, all sorts of resources are in place to help maintain the physical and mental wellbeing of those in self-isolation, including videos for home workouts, free facemasks, counselling services and medical advice. UNNC has also arranged for the essential campus businesses to reopen, such as canteens and grocery stores, to support those living on campus. UNNC was the first foreign university to open in China and is part of the University of Nottingham, which is ranked in the top 1% of the higher education institutions in the world, according to the QS World University Rankings. It offers University of Nottingham degrees, which are taught in English and subject to the same rigorous quality assurance standards as the UK. Students who attend UNNC also receive guaranteed accommodation on campus, with access to complimentary Chinese language classes, sports facilities, an English speaking health clinic and counselling services. More information about UNNC can be found at www.nottingham.edu.cn/en/global. Contacts University of Nottingham Ningbo China Chuchu Lou Content Manager Chuchu.lou@nottingham.edu.cn
-
NEC and Kagome to Provide AI-enabled Services That Improve Tomato Yields
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NEC Corporation today announced the conclusion of a strategic partnership agreement with Kagome Co., Ltd. to launch agricultural management support services utilizing AI for leading tomato processing companies. The new service uses NEC’s AI-enabled agricultural ICT platform, CropScope, to visualize tomato growth and soil conditions based on sensor data and satellite images, and to provide farming management recommendation services. This AI enables the service to provide data on the best timing and amounts of irrigation and fertilizer for healthy crops. As a result, farms are able to achieve stable yields and lower costs, while practicing environmentally sustainable agriculture without depending on the skill of individual growers. Tomato processing companies can obtain a comprehensive understanding of the most effective growing conditions for tomato production on their own farms, as well as their contract growers. Also, they can optimally manage crop harvest orders across all fields based on objective data, which helps to reduce yield loss and improve productivity. NEC and Kagome began agricultural collaboration in 2015, and by 2019 they had conducted demonstrations in regions that include Portugal, Australia and the USA. An AI farming experiment in Portugal in 2019 showed that the amount of fertilizer used for the trial was approximately 20% less than the average amount used in general, yielding 127 tons of tomatoes per hectare, approximately 1.3 times that of the average Portuguese grower, and almost the same as that of skilled growers. Kagome will establish a Smart Agri Division in April 2020, first targeting customers in Europe, then aiming to expand the business to worldwide markets. “Kagome has been developing agricultural management support technologies using big data in collaboration with NEC since 2015, with the aim of realizing environmentally friendly and highly profitable agricultural management in the cultivation of tomatoes for processing on a global basis,” said Kengo Nakata, General Manager, Smart Agri Division, Kagome. “By combining Kagome’s farming know-how with NEC's AI technology, we will realize sustainable agriculture,” he added. “NEC is pleased to have signed a strategic partnership agreement with Kagome,” said Masamitsu Kitase, General Manager, Corporate Business Development Division, NEC. ”NEC aims to realize a sustainable agriculture that can respond flexibly to global social issues on climate change and food safety,” he added. About NEC Corporation: For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com. Contacts Joseph Jasper Corporate Communications Division NEC Corporation j-jasper(at)ax.jp.nec.com
-
Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited Announces 2019 Annual Results
HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2020 - (ACN Newswire) - Zhonghua Gas Holdings Limited (the "Company"; Stock Code: 8246.HK) together with its subsidiaries (collectively as the "Group") today announces its 2019 annual results. For the year ended 31 December 2019 ("the Current Year"), the Group recorded a 7.3% year-on-year increase in total revenue from continuing operations, from HKD366.7 million in the Previous Year to HKD384.9 million. The New Energy Business contributed over 99.9% to the Group's total revenue. Profit and total comprehensive income attributable to owners of the Company decreased by 46.7%, from HKD94.6 million for the Previous Year to HKD49.4 million for the Current Year. Basic and diluted earnings per share for the Current Year was HKD1.5 cents and HKD1.3 cents respectively, as compared to HKD2.7 cents and HKD2.6 cents in the Previous Year. The Board did not recommend the payment of any dividend for the Current Year (Previous Year: HKD0.5 cent per ordinary share). The main reasons for the drop in the gross profit ratio and net profit were that the liquefied natural gas ("LNG") supplies had a lower gross profit margin and an expected credit losses provision was made for the trade receivables at RMB9.4 million (Previous Year: Nil). Moreover, the government subsidy was also reduced by RMB7.3 million for the Current Year. During the Current Year, the Group focused on the expansion of the New Energy Business in terms of strengthening LNG supply during the heat supply period and enhanced its sales platforms and capabilities. The Group continued to obtain and complete a number of construction related and consultancy contracts. The subsidiary that operated LNG supply and related businesses brought stable income to the Group. The rental and management fees from LNG storage tanks and trading of new energy related industrial products were also other income sources for the Group.The Group has been seeking new partnership in different regions, aiming to adopt a win-win strategy through co-exploring the LNG markets and securing stable LNG supplies with an extended and strong supply chain. At the end of last year, the Group successfully cooperated with Shanghai Jiulian Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Shanghai Shenergy Group. Both parties agreed to form a Joint Venture to secure the supply of LNG resources and develop the business into the high potential market in the Yangtze River Delta region. Meanwhile, the Group continued to maintain strong business relationships with Tractebel Engineering S.A. from France and Tianjin Jinre Heat-Supply Group Co. Ltd. Looking ahead, the Group will adopt a prudent business approach in near term to cope with the impact of COVID-19. The Group will actively identify suitable opportunities to develop any existing and new construction related and consultancy business. It will also cautiously execute strategic plans to enlarge its business scopes and take steps to gradually grow the scale of the LNG supply business, forge comprehensive partnership in the new energy sector as well as search for the PRC and international LNG suppliers to enrich its product portfolio. The Group's determination to become a leading diversified and integrated new energy service provider in the PRC remains unchanged. It will concentrate on extending its New Energy business coverage to other major cities in the PRC and be committed to broadening its income streams to achieve sustainable profitability and assuring the supply of LNG resources. Zhonghua Gas Holdings LimitedZhonghua Gas Holdings Limited is principally engaged in provision of diverse integrated new energy services including technological development, construction and consultancy services in relation to heat supply and coal-to-natural gas conversion, supply of liquefied natural gas, coupled with trading of new energy related industrial products. The Group is also engaged in the property investment business. Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
-
Halo Announces Extension of the North Hollywood Dispensary Acquisition Closing Date and Favorable Los Angeles DCR Licensing Process Audit Report
Not for Distribution to U.S. Newswire Servicers or For Dissemination in the United States TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Halo Labs Inc. ("Halo" or the "Company") (NEO: HALO, OTCQX: AGEEF, Germany: A9KN) today announced that, due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the “Drop Dead Date” associated with the closings of the planned acquisitions related to the North Hollywood dispensary have been extended to May 31, 2020 from the original date of March 31, 2020. This includes both the acquisition of the retail management company, Crimson & Black (“C&B”), and the acquisition of the controlling interest in the dispensary applicant LKJ11 LLC (“LKJ”). Furthermore, the audit of the Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulations (“DCR”) application and licensing process, which was conducted by an independent auditor has been completed and the license issuance process may now continue. LKJ, a dispensary license applicant with a location in the heart of the NOHO district of North Hollywood, should now obtain its license in short order. Further to the Company’s press releases dated February 28 and March 6, 2020 concerning Definitive Agreements to acquire the controlling interest in the North Hollywood dispensary applicant LKJ and the accompanying management company, C&B, Halo has agreed to extend the closing deadline to May 31, 2020. The extension will provide more time to finalize the Definitive Agreements during a time when everyday business interactions continue to experience delays due to recent COVID-19 pandemic. This includes the recent extension of federal-mandated social distancing guidelines which have been extended until April 31st as the federal, state, and local governments join forces to combat the virus. Additionally, following a thorough review of the DCR application and licensing process, the independent audit found that the process was conducted in good faith and found no evidence of bias or unfairness. The Auditor found DCR’s 'normalization process' leveled the playing field, eliminated any unfair advantage, and the report recommended that the DCR continue awarding and giving final approvals to winning applicants. These results are favorable for Halo as the Company finalizes the acquisition of C&B, as well as its acquisition of controlling interest in LKJ, a winning applicant. The initial application process was highly selective as only 100 licenses were issued from more than 800 applicants. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered a majority of businesses, both the cannabis and the construction industry have been deemed critical businesses in Los Angeles during the pandemic, and therefore have permission to continue conducting business in ordinary course, subject to local and CDC guidelines. The Company expects that once the DCR continues with the awarding of licenses and LKJ receives its license, the build out of the dispensary and its opening will continue on schedule, with the Company targeting an opening in the second quarter of 2020. The build out is expected to be one of North Hollywood´s largest retail dispensary locations, boasting nearly 4,000 square feet and significant onsite parking. Located in the heart of North Hollywood, the dispensary will be situated on Lankershim Blvd. and Hesby Ave., which are heavily transited streets with significant vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Upon the NOHO dispensary’s opening, Halo expects to commence direct retail sales of its own branded and white-labeled cannabis products, in turn fueling LKJ’s sales and reducing starting inventory costs. Halo will leverage manufacturing in Southern California at Cathedral City and cultivation procurement, manufacturing, and distribution operations in Northern California to scale up its direct-to-dispensary business. Katharyn Field, President of Halo Labs, states, “We are pleased with the outcome of the DCR audit report and believe this paves the way for the City of Los Angeles to allow the initial dispensary license recipients to build out and open as soon as possible. We still anticipate opening the North Hollywood dispensary by the end of June and launching home delivery in the surrounding area as well. Above all, Halo will implement appropriate measures to ensure that retail operations are mindful of any guidelines still recommended by state and local governments, as well as the CDC, to protect both customers and employees from COVID-19.” About Halo Halo is a leading cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution company that grows and extracts and processes quality cannabis flower, oils, and concentrates and has sold over 5 million grams of oils and concentrates since inception. Additionally, Halo has continued to evolve its business through delivering value with its products and now via verticalization in key markets in the United States and Africa with planned expansion into European and Canadian markets. With a consumer-centric focus, Halo markets innovative, branded, and private label products across multiple product categories. Recently, the Company entered into binding agreements to acquire a dispensary in Los Angeles, and Canmart Limited which holds wholesale distribution and special licenses allowing the import and distribution of cannabis based products for medicinal use (CBPM’s) in the United Kingdom. Halo is led by a strong, diverse management team with deep industry knowledge and blue-chip experience. The Company is currently operating in the United States in California, Oregon, and Nevada while having an international presence in Lesotho within a planned 205-hectare cultivation zone via Bophelo as well as planned importation and distribution in the United Kingdom via Canmart. For further information regarding Halo, see Halo’s disclosure documents on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only Halo’s beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Halo’s control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained herein includes, but is not limited to, the extension of Crimson and Black and NOHO dispensary acquisition date as well as favorable audit by the City of Los Angeles on the DCR. By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Halo is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. In addition, in connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Halo has made certain assumptions. Although Halo believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Halo does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to Halo or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice. Contacts Halo Labs Investor Relations info@halocanna.com
-
Shanghai Sunwin's Tech Integrated 'Healthcare Bus' Solution Keeps the Public Safe
SHANGHAI, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite a reduction in new cases of the Coronavirus across China, Shanghai Sunwin Bus Corporation (SUNWIN) is not taking any chances. As of March 2020, Sunwin has begun rolling out the 'Healthcare Bus', a tech integrated and specially designed solution to reduce the risk of infection and make public transport safer. Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8710351-shanghai-sunwin-healthcare-bus-coronavirus/ "With much of China returning to work, urban public transportation has seen a surge in passengers. This increase marks public transport as the 'new frontier' in the fight to contain the spread of the virus," said WeiFeng Kan Chief Engineer of Sunwin. "With a focus on using innovative technical solutions to create social value, Sunwin is dedicated to upholding public safety. Through utilizing facial recognition, smart-temperature reading, UV lighting and an automatic gas detection system, we have launched the 'Healthcare Bus' solution to ensure passenger safety in a non-invasive way," he added. The first upgrade passengers will notice is the AI-integrated facial recognition and infrared thermal imaging camera installed next to the ticket-checking machine. This multi-purpose screening system is used to alert the driver of any passenger with a fever boarding the bus, as well as automatically identifying whether they are wearing a face mask. As the screening process is completely automated and non-contact, it is not compromised during times of increased congestion during rush hours and does not slow down the normal operation of the bus network. An additional safety upgrade is the use of UV lighting within the air ducts to sterilize and kill the virus effectively. UV lighting reaching 20mJ has been proven to destroy up to 99% of the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of microorganisms, bacteria and viruses smaller than 253.7nm, making them unable to replicate and therefore eliminating the source of infection. Combined with an upgraded air-filtration system, this allows the entire bus to be completely sterilized within 20 minutes. Through the regular use of UV lighting and improved air-filtration, Sunwin Healthcare Buses ensures that even in the rare case of an infected patron boarding, the risk of infection to other passengers is significantly reduced. The final major safety upgrade is in the form of an automatic inflammable and explosive detection system. Placed beneath the front and rear doors, this smart detection system automatically alerts the driver and local police authorities about any potential combustible objects on board. With the strategy of moving toward an automated, shared, and connected mobility future on an electrified platform, Sunwin aims to build a brighter urban life by placing the public health in a high priority while committed to the technological breakthroughs for the public transportation. About Sunwin: Shanghai Sunwin Bus Corporation (SUNWIN), a leading public-transport provider, is a wholly owned subsidiary of SAIC MOTOR focused on new energy vehicles with a total investment of $320 million. With its plant covering 140,000 square meters, Sunwin has reached the annual production capacity of 2,000 buses and 3,000 chassis based on fuel cell, full-electric, hybrid, and diesel propulsion. Media contact: Xiaoming Wangwangxiaoming@sunwinbus.com +8613651912511Related Links :http://www.sunwinbus.com/index.aspx
-
Optical Amplifier Market 2019-2023 | Increasing Number of Data Centers to Boost Growth | Technavio
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--#OpticalAmplifierMarket--Technavio has been monitoring the optical amplifier market and it is poised to grow by USD 935.94 million during 2019-2023, progressing at a CAGR of almost 9% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Request latest free sample report of 2020-2024 The market is concentrated, and the degree of concentration will accelerate during the forecast period. EMCORE, Finisar, IPG Photonics, Lumentum Operations, and Sumitomo Electric Industries are some of the major market participants. The increasing number of data centers will offer immense growth opportunities. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Increasing number of data centers has been instrumental in driving the growth of the market. Optical Amplifier Market 2019-2023 : Segmentation Optical Amplifier Market is segmented as below: End-user Data Communication Telecommunication Enterprise Geographic Landscape Americas APAC EMEA To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download latest free sample report of 2020-2024: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR30304 Optical Amplifier Market 2019-2023 : Scope Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our optical amplifier market report covers the following areas: Optical Amplifier Market Size Optical Amplifier Market Trends Optical Amplifier Market Industry Analysis This study identifies increasing popularity of hyper-converged infrastructure as one of the prime reasons driving the optical amplifier market growth during the next few years. Optical Amplifier Market 2019-2023 : Vendor Analysis We provide a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the optical amplifier market, including some of the vendors such as EMCORE, Finisar, IPG Photonics, Lumentum Operations, and Sumitomo Electric Industries. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the optical amplifier market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Optical Amplifier Market 2019-2023 : Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2019-2023 Detailed information on factors that will assist optical amplifier market growth during the next five years Estimation of the optical amplifier market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the optical amplifier market Analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of optical amplifier market vendors Table Of Contents : PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2018 Market size and forecast 2018-2023 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY END-USER Market segmentation by end-user Comparison by end-user Data communication - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Telecommunication - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Enterprise - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Market opportunity by end-user PART 07: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 08: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison APAC - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Americas - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 EMEA - Market size and forecast 2018-2023 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 09: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 10: TRENDS Increasing popularity of hyper-converged infrastructure Increasing focus on developing smart cities Increasing deployment of long and ultra-long-haul networks PART 11: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 12: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors EMCORE Finisar IPG Photonics Lumentum Operations Sumitomo Electric Industries PART 13: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio’s report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio’s comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.comWebsite: www.technavio.com/
-
For the Launch of Three Revolutionary Shoes the ASICS Innovation Summit Goes Virtual
The ASICS Innovation Summit moves to Virtual Reality for the announcement of their three most advanced performance shoes yet: METARACER™ is ASICS’s most advanced distance racing shoe yet, with energy-saving GUIDESOLE™ technology combined with a stabilizing carbon plate METASPRINT™ is ASICS’s spikeless track shoe; lighter than most sprinting footwear, its honeycomb sole provides more traction and transfers power in between each stride for increased speed METARISE™ is a revolutionary indoor shoe designed for the attack which gives players an extra 3 per cent lift for higher jumps KOBE, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ASICS has announced three revolutionary new shoes to power and protect athletes – METARACER™ an advanced racing shoe for long distances, METARISE™, a volleyball shoe and the spikeless METASPRINT™ track shoe for elite sprinters. Like all ASICS innovation, they are designed to help athletes perform and protect them at the same time. The uplifting power of movement and sport is more important than ever. The World Health Organization says that physical activity is an important way for people to cope with global restrictions on movement and enforced social distance. The three new shoes will be announced in the Sunrise Red color scheme, which is a symbol of athletes’ hope, passion and dedication and celebrates the city of Tokyo. “The three new shoes keep with the best ASICS tradition: they help athletes to perform better, but also keep them safe at the same time,” said Kenichi Harano, Executive Officer and Senior General Manager at the ASICS Institute of Sport Science. “Innovation has been at the core of the ASICS DNA since 1949, when our founder Kihachiro Onitsuka decided the power of sports could help transform the lives of children in war-torn Japan. Kihachiro Onitsuka decided that the power of sports could help children overcome the challenges and hardships after World War II. “Ever since, whether it was an elite competition year or not, ASICS has continuously innovated to equip athletes of all abilities with the gear they need to reach their peak performance – but to do so safely. That’s the true spirit of ASICS.” Originally planning to announce its new shoes at an ASICS Innovation Summit in Tokyo, the company has taken its shoe innovation into Virtual Reality, for ASICS’s first product preview in VR. Media, athletes and shoppers around the world can experience the three new shoes up close and personal – in the virtual innovation lab of the ASICS Institute of Sport Science. The Institute is the home of ASICS innovation in Kobe, Japan, with scientists, engineers and designers constantly working to develop technology that helps athletes to perform to the best of their abilities. “We believe that now, more than ever, it’s important to remember the positive impact of sport for individuals and society: exercise uplifts people, so they achieve a sound mind through a sound body. And what better way to showcase ASICS innovation than taking people to a virtual innovation lab that brings our technology to life,” said Yasuhito Hirota, the President & Chief Operating Officer of ASICS. COVID-19 RESPONSE The health and wellbeing of our athletes, customers and staff as our top priority, and we took the decision weeks ago to close our retail stores and offices in affected markets around the world. Medical professionals say that in the current situation movement is very important to ensure everybody’s mental and physical wellbeing. ASICS opened access to the ASICS Studio™ at-home workout app for everyone for the duration of this difficult situation. We believe in the power of sport to uplift us. in times like this it has never been as important to help everyone achieve a sound mind in a sound body. We will continue to do all we can to help the world achieve that goal. METARACER™ The METARACER™ is ASICS’s most advanced long-distance racing shoe yet, designed to help performance athletes reach their peak. It combines our revolutionary GUIDESOLE™ technology with a carbon plate to give runners more stability. The shoe has an improved toe-spring shape that reduces the load on the calf muscle by up to 20 per cent1 for better energy efficiency. ASICS scientists have found that every degree less heat in a running shoe dramatically improves an athlete’s well-being. SRP: €200.00 METARISE™ Higher jumps, fast movement on the break and stability without power loss – these are the unique qualities of the ASICS METARISE™ Indoor shoe. The curved heel design supports smooth transition and lift off for the attack. Research at the ASICS Institute of Sport Science has shown that the METARISE™ gives players an extra 3 per cent2 lift for higher jumps – which for athletes can mean a difference of up to 2cm in the air. SRP: €200.00 METASPRINT™ Traditionally, sprinters have relied on spikes to gain traction. Not anymore. With the METASPRINT™, ASICS revolutionizes what a track shoe should look like, replacing the spikes with a honeycomb carbon fiber outsole that optimizes and enhances traction and delivers explosive speed with each stride. The METASPRINT™ is the ideal choice for elite and competitive sprinters. With no spikes inhibiting your stride, athletes will transfer additional power with every step and increase speed – and over short distances, every millisecond saved counts3. SRP: €300.00 Availability: METARACER™ in Japan from April 17th globally from June 26th. METASPRINT™ from April 17th METARISE™: June 12th -ENDS- NOTES FOR EDITOR MEDIA ASSETS VR Experience on YouTube Asset Library Product videos: METARACER™ METARISE™ METASPRINT™ 1 Research conducted by ASICS Institute of Sport Science, Kobe, Japan, January 2020 against running shoes. 2 Research conducted by ASICS Institute of Sport Science, Kobe, Japan, September 2019 against volleyball shoes shows an increase in jump height on average of 3%. 3 Research by ASICS Institute of Sport Science, Kobe, Japan, February 2020 against traditional spikes, showed how sprinters could power forward on average an extra 6.67cm / second wearing METASPRINT which translates to nearly 500ths of a second [0.048 seconds] over 100m. Contacts Lindsay Mandeville PR Manager, ASICS Europe Lindsay.mandeville@ASICS.COM
-
Altice Europe Confirms That Its Fully Owned Subsidiary Hot Has Decided to Terminate Discussions Regarding the Acquisition of Partner Communications
AMSTERDAM--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Altice Europe N.V. (Euronext: ATC & ATCB, “Altice Europe”) has taken note of recent market speculation regarding Hot Telecommunication Systems Ltd (“Hot”) and Partner Communications. Altice Europe confirms that its fully owned subsidiary Hot has terminated discussions regarding the potential acquisition of Partner Communications. Regulated Information This press release contains inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation. About Altice Europe Altice Europe (ATC & ATCB), listed on Euronext Amsterdam, is a convergent leader in telecoms, content, media, entertainment and advertising. Altice delivers innovative, customer-centric products and solutions that connect and unlock the limitless potential of its over 30 million customers over fibre networks and mobile broadband. Altice is also a provider of enterprise digital solutions to millions of business customers. The company innovates with technology, research and development and enables people to live out their passions by providing original content, high-quality and compelling TV shows, and international, national and local news channels. Altice delivers live broadcast premium sports events and enables its customers to enjoy the most well-known media and entertainment. Contacts Head of Investor Relations Altice EuropeSam Wood: +41 79 538 66 82 / sam.wood@altice.net Head of Communications Altice EuropeArthur Dreyfuss: +41 79 946 4931 / arthur.dreyfuss@altice.net
-
Update on 92nd Vifor Pharma Ltd. Annual General Meeting
AGM will take place as planned on 14 May, 2020 under extraordinary conditions Shareholders are not allowed to attend in person and are requested to vote via independent proxy ST GALLEN, Switzerland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Vifor Pharma confirmed that it will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 14 May, 2020, as planned. In view of the current situation and based on Art. 6a of Ordinance 2, issued by the Swiss Federal Council, regarding measures against combatting the coronavirus (COVID-19), shareholders will not be allowed to attend the event in person. In addition, the AGM will not include an address by the Executive Chairman, senior management or a webcast. At Vifor Pharma the health of shareholders and employees is a priority, therefore the Board of Directors has decided that shareholders will be able to exercise their rights at the General Meeting exclusively through the independent proxy. By following this measure, Vifor Pharma will ensure that the Annual General Meeting can be held on the originally scheduled date. The voting results will be published on https://www.viforpharma.com/en/investors/shareholders-information/annual-general-meeting shortly after the AGM. Vifor Pharma Group is a global specialty pharmaceuticals company. It aims to become the global leader in iron deficiency, nephrology and cardio-renal therapies. The company is the partner of choice for pharmaceuticals and innovative patient-focused solutions. Vifor Pharma Group strives to help patients around the world with severe and chronic diseases lead better, healthier lives. The company develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products for precision patient care. Vifor Pharma Group holds a leading position in all its core business activities and consists of the following companies: Vifor Pharma; Vifor Fresenius Medical Care Renal Pharma (a joint company with Fresenius Medical Care); and OM Pharma. Vifor Pharma Group is headquartered in Switzerland, and listed on the Swiss Stock Exchange (SIX Swiss Exchange, VIFN, ISIN: CH0364749348). For more information, please visit www.viforpharma.com Contacts Media RelationsNathalie Ponnier Global Corporate Communications +41 79 957 96 73 media@viforpharma.com Investor RelationsJulien Vignot Head of Investor Relations +41 58 851 66 90 investors@viforpharma.com
-
Duiba Group Limited Announces 2019 Annual Results
HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2020 - (ACN Newswire) - Duiba Group Limited,(the "Company" and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"; Stock Code:1753.HK) China's leading user management SaaS provider for online businesses and pioneer of the interactive advertising platform operator, is pleased to announce the audited consolidated annual results of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2019 (the "Reporting Period"). Financial Highlight:For the 12 months ending 31 December 2019, the Group recorded:- A total revenue of approximately RMB 1.65 billion, with an increase of approximately 45% YoY.- The adjusted profit was approximately RMB 340.0 million, representing a growth of approximately 66% YoY.- The adjusted net profit margin increased from 18.0% in 2018 to 20.6%.- The revenue from interactive advertising business surged by approximately 45.7% to RMB 1.62 billion YoY.- The revenue from user management SaaS increased significantly by approximately 146.4% to RMB 33.7 million YoY.For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Group recorded a total revenue of RMB 1.65 billion (2018: RMB 1.14 billion), with an increase of approximately 45% from 2018. The adjusted profit of the Group was approximately RMB 340 million (2018: RMB205 million), representing a growth of approximately 66%. Meanwhile, the Group's adjusted net profit margin increased to 20.6% (2018:18.0%).The adjusted profit is the addition of share-based payments, listing expenses, changes in the fair value of financial liabilities measured at fair value and recorded in profit and loss, and financing costs.The increase of the Group's total revenue was primarily attributed by the growth in the revenue fromthe Group's interactive advertising business during the year ended 31 December 2019, surged by approximately 45.7% to RMB1.62 billion (2018: RMB 1.11billion). 43% of the revenue was contributed by e-commerce industry and 44% of the revenue was contributed by the financial industry. As at 31 December 2019, 90% of the Group's interactive advertising platform's audience came from non-tier-one-cities. Currently, advertisers such as financial enterprises and e-commerce platforms with increased penetration to lower tier cities will increase their spending on interactive advertisement, which will be a key driver for the Group's growth in coming years.As at 31 December 2019, the Group designed more than 14,000 advertising campaigns, most of which were the first-of-their-kind on the market. During the year ended 31 December 2019, the average revenue per chargeable click under the CPC model of the Group's interactive advertising platform increased to RMB0.37 (2018: RMB0.35) while the average CTR (click-through rate) of the Group's interactive advertising business reached 27.1% (2018: 26.3%) through the Group's continuing efforts to upgrade products and technology.As at 31 December 2019, the Group further facilitated the monetization of user traffic generated from the SaaS business, the revenue generated from the Group's user management SaaS business increased significantly by approximately 146.4% to RMB 33.7million (2018: RMB13.7 million), which mainly due to the increasing number of contracted and renewed customers and the increased unit price. As at 31 December 2019, paying customers which used the Group's charged user management SaaS services increased to 645 (2018: 373) including 376 app developers which are online businesses and 269 offline businesses. The number of newly signed contracts (including renewed contracts) for the Group's user management SaaS business reached 649 in 2019 (2018:378). The total value of newly signed contracts (including renewed contracts) in 2019 was approximately RMB43.4 million (2018: approximately RMB9.8 million). The sales and marketing strategy of the Group's user management SaaS business for offline businesses is to actively explore cooperation opportunities with top brands in sectors including retailing, catering, banking and new media. In 2019, we made breakthroughs in expanding the Group's banking customer base. Among the ten contracts with the highest contract value of the newly signed contracts (including renewed contracts) in 2019, the customers of eight contracts were banking customers. The total number and the total value of the newly signed contracts (including renewed contracts) with banking customers in 2019 was 65 (2018: 5) and RMB9.7 million (2018: RMB0.7 million) respectively.The Group covers a wide variety of different user traffic, and have accumulated certain mainstream and high-quality customers such as large leading apps, WeChat's public accounts and top brands in offline businesses. These businesses have a large user base and demand for user management SaaS services, and we believe they present a great untapped potential.For the year ended 31 December 2019, the Group's net cash inflow generated from operating activitieswas RMB 241.0million (2018: net cash outflow RMB7.4 million), net cash outflow used in investing activities was RMB 625.7 million (2018: RMB231.1 million) representing an increase of 170.6% compared with 2018, primarily due to the purchases of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss at the amount of RMB 3,065.9 million (2018: RMB1,564.0 million). The Group's net cash inflow generated from financing activities was RMB 304.4million (2018: RMB403.6 million), primarily due to the proceeds from issue of Shares.During the year ended 31 December 2019, the Group continued to increase investment in research and development. As at 31 December 2019, the number of employees from the Group's research and development department was 363, accounted for 52.4% of the Group's total employees, which resulted in a 20% increase in the Group's research and development expenses from RMB88.8 million in 2018 to RMB106.6 million in 2019. In order to improve and optimize the algorithms, the Group launched new technologies called "Feng Huo Tai" and "Ba Gua Tai". "Feng Huo Tai" has highly advanced real-time data analysis ability and instant and precise audience targeting ability, meanwhile, "Ba Gua Tai" has significantly improved the efficiency of new products tests in the research and development process.Mr. Chen Xiaoliang, Chairman of the Board stated: "Our vision is to become a company which can represent the industry in the industrial internet era in the next five to ten years, and truly help enterprises improve their efficiency through our products and services. We deeply understand that "right direction", "long-term perspective" and "persistence" are required for achieving a great cause. Duiba is a very young company with a team full of enthusiasm. Despite many challenges faced in the past years, we have braved difficulties and have achieved good growth in overcoming them."About Duiba Group Limited (1753.HK)Duiba Group Limited ("the Group") is a leader and pioneer in user management SaaS business and interactive advertising business in the PRC, the mission is to provide Full-cycle service to help more enterprises in user acquisition, retention and monetization. This unique business model together with strong synergies between user management SaaS platform and interactive advertising platform laid a solid foundation to capture rapid and sustainable growth for Duiba Group Limited. The Group's user management SaaS platform offers various fun and engaging user management tools including reward points operation tools, marketing campaign tools and check-in tools to boost mobile app user activity and participation on apps. Interactive Advertising Business including media monetization service and advertisement serving. Copyright 2020 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
