News Hub | News Direct

Transportation

Airlines Automotive Electric Vehicles Logistics Maritime
Article thumbnail News Release

Cooper Standard Reports Second Quarter Results; Semiconductor-related Customer Shutdowns and Commodity Inflation Weigh on Sales and Profit

Cooper-Standard Holdings Inc.

Cooper-Standard Holdings Inc. (NYSE: CPS) today reported results for the second quarter 2021. Second Quarter 2021 Summary Sales totaled $533.2 million, reflecting a negative impact of approximately $200 million from semiconductor-related customer shutdowns Net loss amounted to $63.6 million or $(3.73) per diluted share Adjusted EBITDA totaled $(14.7) million, including the negative impact of semiconductor-related customer shutdowns Net new business awards totaled $91.8 million, including $28.0 million in new business awards on electric vehicle platforms “Our operating teams continue to perform well, delivering world-class products, technology and service to our customers around the world,” said Jeffrey Edwards, chairman and CEO, Cooper Standard. “However, volatile customer production schedules and rising material costs significantly impacted our operating efficiency and results during the quarter. We are taking aggressive actions, including commercial negotiations with customers and suppliers, to mitigate these incremental costs. Based on current customer schedules, we expect to leverage higher production volumes to drive improved financial results in the second half of the year.” Consolidated Results The year-over-year change in second quarter sales was primarily attributable to the non-recurrence of COVID-related customer shutdowns and favorable foreign exchange, partially offset by semiconductor-related customer shutdowns and the divestiture of certain businesses in India and Europe in July 2020. Organic sales growth, which excludes the impacts of foreign exchange and divestitures, was 54.9 percent year-over-year. Net loss for the second quarter 2021 included restructuring charges of $11.6 million and other special items. Net loss for the second quarter 2020 included asset impairment charges of $12.6 million, restructuring charges of $9.8 million and other special items. Adjusted net loss, which excludes these items and their related tax impact, was $51.1 million in the second quarter 2021 compared to $111.8 million in the second quarter of 2020. The year-over-year improvement was primarily due to the non-recurrence of COVID-related customer shutdowns, improved manufacturing efficiency, and lower selling, administrative and engineering (SGA&E) expense, partially offset by semiconductor-related customer shutdowns, higher commodity and material costs, higher interest expense, wage inflation and lower tax benefit. In the first six months of the year, the year-over-year change in sales was primarily attributable to the non-recurrence of COVID-related customer shutdowns and favorable foreign exchange, partially offset by semiconductor-related customer shutdowns and the divestiture of certain businesses in India and Europe in July 2020. For the first half of the year, organic sales growth, which excludes the impacts of foreign exchange and divestitures, was 22.8 percent versus the same period in 2020. Net loss for the first six months of 2021 included restructuring charges of $32.7 million and other special items. Net loss for the first six months of 2020 included asset impairment charges of $87.3 million, restructuring charges of $17.1 million and other special items. Adjusted net loss, which excludes these items and their related tax impact, was $65.6 million in the first six months of 2021 compared to $148.3 million in the first six months of 2020. The year-over-year improvement was primarily due to the non-recurrence of COVID-related customer shutdowns, improved manufacturing efficiency and lower SGA&E expense, partially offset by semiconductor-related customer shutdowns, higher commodity and material costs, higher interest expense, wage inflation and lower tax benefit. Adjusted net loss, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted loss per diluted share and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures. Reconciliations to the most directly comparable financial measures, calculated and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), are provided in the attached supplemental schedules. New Business Awards The Company continues to leverage its world-class engineering and manufacturing capabilities, its innovation programs and its reputation for quality and service to win new business awards with its customers. During the second quarter of 2021, the Company received net new business awards representing an incremental $91.8 million in anticipated future annualized sales. Importantly, these net new business awards included $28.0 million in new awards on electric vehicle platforms. For the first six months of 2021, the Company's net new business awards totaled $131.3 million, with $58.8 million in new awards on electric vehicle platforms. New business awards related to the Company's innovation products were strong in the second quarter, with new contract awards, including both new and converted replacement business, totaling $93.8 million in anticipated future annualized sales. These awards are related to the Company’s commercialized innovation products such as MagAlloy™, Gen III Posi-Lock™, Easy-Lock™, PC2000™, EPDM Microdense and TP Microdense. Additionally, the Company has introduced new technologies through our i 3 Innovation Process that are supporting future pursuits with Fortrex™, FlushSeal, TUROS™ and next-generation connection technologies. Continuing Execution of ROIC and Margin Enhancement Initiatives The Company remains focused on improving returns on invested capital and adjusted EBITDA margins to above 10 percent. A defined, company-wide initiative to accomplish these goals was initiated in late 2019 and the execution on the defined workstreams is ongoing. Full execution of the "Driving Value Plan" is expected to take approximately three years from inception. We believe we are on track to achieve the stated goals of the initiative by the end of 2022 with the first full year of sustained double-digit ROIC and adjusted EBITDA margins expected to be in 2023. Segment Results of Operations Sales * Net of customer price reductions Volume and mix, net of customer price reductions, was driven by vehicle production volume increases in all regions, except Asia Pacific, due to non-recurrence of lengthy shutdowns in the prior year from COVID-19, offset in part by the impact of semiconductor supply issues in the current year. The impact of foreign currency exchange primarily related to the Euro, Chinese Renminbi, and Canadian Dollar. Adjusted EBITDA * Net of customer price reductions Volume and mix, net of customer price reductions, was driven by vehicle production volume increases due to non-recurrence of lengthy shutdowns in the prior year from COVID-19, offset in part by the impact of semiconductor supply issues in the current year. The impact of foreign currency exchange was driven by the Brazilian Real, Mexican Peso, Canadian Dollar, Euro, Polish Zloty, Czech Koruna, and Chinese Renminbi. The Cost (Increases) / Decreases category above includes: Reduction in compensation-related expenses due to salaried headcount initiatives, lower variable employee compensation expenses, purchasing savings through lean initiatives, and restructuring savings; Commodity cost, wage inflation increases and the non-recurrence of prior year government incentives; and Manufacturing efficiencies of $12 million, primarily driven by our Europe and North America segments. Cash and Liquidity At June 30, 2021, Cooper Standard had cash and cash equivalents totaling $335.5 million and total liquidity, including availability under its amended senior asset-based revolving credit facility, of $452.6 million. Based on our current expectations for light vehicle production and customer demand for our products, we expect our current strong cash balance, anticipated incremental free cash flow in the second half of 2021 and access to flexible credit facilities will provide sufficient resources to support ongoing operations and the execution of planned strategic initiatives. Outlook Entering the third quarter, light vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers continue to experience significant production delays and disruption due to the ongoing global semiconductor shortage and other supply chain constraints. Higher commodity costs, rising wages, general inflation and labor availability are creating additional headwinds. At the same time, consumer demand for new light vehicles remains strong and U.S. dealer inventories are at the lowest levels in over 20 years. Current customer schedules and industry forecasts suggest production volumes will begin to improve in the latter portion of the third quarter and continue to increase through the fourth quarter. Based on our outlook for the global automotive industry, macroeconomic conditions, current customer production schedules and our own operating plans, the Company has updated its 2021 full year guidance as follows: 1 Guidance is representative of management's estimates and expectations as of the date it is published. Current guidance as presented in this press release considers July 2021 IHS Markit production forecasts for relevant light vehicle platforms and models, customers' planned production schedules and other internal assumptions. 2 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. The Company has not provided a reconciliation of projected adjusted EBITDA to projected net income because full-year net income will include special items that have not yet occurred and are difficult to predict with reasonable certainty prior to year-end. Due to this uncertainty, the Company cannot reconcile projected adjusted EBITDA to U.S. GAAP net income without unreasonable effort. Conference Call Details Cooper Standard management will host a conference call and webcast on August 5, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. ET to discuss its second quarter 2021 results, provide a general business update and respond to investor questions. A link to the live webcast of the call (listen only) and presentation materials will be available on Cooper Standard’s Investor Relations website at www.ir.cooperstandard.com/events.cfm. To participate by phone, callers in the United States and Canada should dial toll-free (877) 374-4041. International callers should dial (253) 237-1156. Provide the conference ID 7365064 or ask to be connected to the Cooper Standard conference call. Representatives of the investment community will have the opportunity to ask questions after the presentation. Callers should dial in at least five minutes prior to the start of the call. Individuals unable to participate during the live call may visit the investors’ portion of the Cooper Standard website ( www.ir.cooperstandard.com ) for a replay of the webcast. About Cooper Standard Cooper Standard, headquartered in Northville, Mich., is a leading global supplier of systems and components in diverse transportation and industrial markets. Products include sealing, fuel and brake delivery and fluid transfer systems. Cooper Standard employs approximately 25,000 people globally and operates in 21 countries around the world. For more information, please visit www.cooperstandard.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws, and we intend that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbor created thereby. Our use of words “estimate,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “plan,” “intend,” “believe,” “outlook,” “guidance,” “forecast,” or future or conditional verbs, such as “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” or “may,” and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions. Our expectations, beliefs, and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them. However, we cannot assure you that these expectations, beliefs and projections will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results or achievements to be materially different from the future results or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Among other items, such factors may include: the impact, and expected continued impact, of the COVID-19 outbreak on our financial condition and results of operations; significant risks to our liquidity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic risk; prolonged or material contractions in automotive sales and production volumes; our inability to realize sales represented by awarded business; escalating pricing pressures; loss of large customers or significant platforms; our ability to successfully compete in the automotive parts industry; availability and increasing volatility in costs of manufactured components and raw materials; disruption in our supply base; competitive threats and commercial risks associated with our diversification strategy through our Advanced Technology Group; possible variability of our working capital requirements; risks associated with our international operations, including changes in laws, regulations, and policies governing the terms of foreign trade such as increased trade restrictions and tariffs; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; our ability to control the operations of our joint ventures for our sole benefit; our substantial amount of indebtedness and variable rates of interest; our ability to obtain adequate financing sources in the future; operating and financial restrictions imposed on us under our debt instruments; the underfunding of our pension plans; significant changes in discount rates and the actual return on pension assets; effectiveness of continuous improvement programs and other cost savings plans; manufacturing facility closings or consolidation; our ability to execute new program launches; our ability to meet customers’ needs for new and improved products; the possibility that our acquisitions and divestitures may not be successful; product liability, warranty and recall claims brought against us; laws and regulations, including environmental, health and safety laws and regulations; legal and regulatory proceedings, claims or investigations against us; work stoppages or other labor disruptions; the ability of our intellectual property to withstand legal challenges; cyber-attacks, data privacy concerns, other disruptions in, or the inability to implement upgrades to, our information technology systems; the possible volatility of our annual effective tax rate; the possibility of a failure to maintain effective controls and procedures; the possibility of future impairment charges to our goodwill and long-lived assets; our ability to identify, attract, develop and retain a skilled, engaged and diverse workforce; our ability to procure insurance at reasonable rates; and our dependence on our subsidiaries for cash to satisfy our obligations; and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or otherwise revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except where we are expressly required to do so by law. This press release also contains estimates and other information that is based on industry publications, surveys and forecasts. This information involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and we have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the information. CPS_F Financial statements and related notes follow: Non-GAAP Measures EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share and free cash flow are measures not recognized under U.S. GAAP and which exclude certain non-cash and special items that may obscure trends and operating performance not indicative of the Company’s core financial activities. Net new business is a measure not recognized under U.S. GAAP which is a representation of potential incremental future revenue but which may not fully reflect all external impacts to future revenue. Management considers EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business to be key indicators of the Company’s operating performance and believes that these and similar measures are widely used by investors, securities analysts and other interested parties in evaluating the Company’s performance. In addition, similar measures are utilized in the calculation of the financial covenants and ratios contained in the Company’s financing arrangements and management uses these measures for developing internal budgets and forecasting purposes. EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to reflect income tax expense (benefit), interest expense net of interest income, depreciation and amortization, and adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA further adjusted to reflect certain items that management does not consider to be reflective of the Company’s core operating performance. Adjusted net income (loss) is defined as net income (loss) adjusted to reflect certain items that management does not consider to be reflective of the Company’s core operating performance. Adjusted basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share is defined as adjusted net income (loss) divided by the weighted average number of basic and diluted shares, respectively, outstanding during the period. Free cash flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities minus capital expenditures and is useful to both management and investors in evaluating the Company’s ability to service and repay its debt. Net new business reflects anticipated sales from formally awarded programs, less lost business, discontinued programs and replacement programs and is based on IHS Markit forecast production volumes. The calculation of “net new business” does not reflect customer price reductions on existing programs and may be impacted by various assumptions embedded in the respective calculation, including actual vehicle production levels on new programs, foreign exchange rates and the timing of major program launches. When analyzing the Company’s operating performance, investors should use EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business as supplements to, and not as alternatives for, net income (loss), operating income, or any other performance measure derived in accordance with U.S. GAAP, and not as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities as a measure of the Company’s liquidity. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, net debt, free cash flow and net new business have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for analysis of the Company’s results of operations as reported under U.S. GAAP. Other companies may report EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss), adjusted earnings (loss) per share, free cash flow and net new business differently and therefore the Company’s results may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. In addition, in evaluating adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss), it should be noted that in the future the Company may incur expenses similar to or in excess of the adjustments in the below presentation. This presentation of adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income (loss) should not be construed as an inference that the Company’s future results will be unaffected by special items. Reconciliations of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income (loss) and free cash flow follow. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (Unaudited) (Dollar amounts in thousands) The following table provides a reconciliation of EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA from net loss: (1) Non-cash impairment charges in 2021 related to fixed assets. Non-cash impairment charges in 2020 included impairment of assets held for sale and other impairment charges, net of portion attributable to our noncontrolling interests. (2) During 2021, we recorded subsequent adjustments to the net gain on sale of business, which related to the 2020 divestiture of our European rubber fluid transfer and specialty sealing businesses. (3) Lease termination costs no longer recorded as restructuring charges in accordance with ASC 842. (4) Project costs recorded in selling, administration and engineering expense related to divestitures in 2020. Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Loss Per Share (Unaudited) (Dollar amounts in thousands except per share and share amounts) The following table provides a reconciliation of net loss to adjusted net loss and the respective loss per share amounts: (1) Non-cash impairment charges in 2021 related to fixed assets. Non-cash impairment charges in 2020 included impairment of assets held for sale and other impairment charges, net of portion attributable to our noncontrolling interests. (2) During 2021, we recorded subsequent adjustments to the net gain on sale of business, which related to the 2020 divestiture of our European rubber fluid transfer and specialty sealing businesses. (3) Lease termination costs no longer recorded as restructuring charges in accordance with ASC 842. (4) Project costs recorded in selling, administration and engineering expense related to divestitures in 2020. (5) Represents the elimination of the income tax impact of the above adjustments by calculating the income tax impact of these adjusting items using the appropriate tax rate for the jurisdiction where the charges were incurred. Free Cash Flow (Unaudited) (Dollar amounts in thousands) The following table defines free cash flow: Contact Details Contact for Analysts: Roger Hendriksen +1 248-596-6465 roger.hendriksen@cooperstandard.com Contact for Media: Chris Andrews +1 248-596-6217 candrews@cooperstandard.com Company Website https://www.cooperstandard.com/

August 04, 2021 05:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Cloud Conventions & MCI Group Partner with Medical Professionals to Deliver Virtual/Hybrid Events

Convey Services

Cloud Conventions, an enterprise virtual/hybrid event platform and the MCI Group, a leading global event management firm are partnering to deliver virtual and hybrid event solutions for medical organizations to complement their live events. The American Thoracic Society, a nonprofit organization focused on improving care for pulmonary diseases with more than 16,000 members worldwide, launched their annual conference in April 2021 as a 100% virtual event. They selected the MCI Group as its event management partner and Cloud Conventions as its virtual event platform. This August, the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses(AORN), guided by an abundance of caution from the recent surge in COVID cases, transitioned their hybrid conference to a fully virtual event under the guidance of the MCI Group. Their new virtual event will educate and engage attendees and exhibitors using the Cloud Conventions virtual/hybrid event platform. “Audiences for conferences hosted by medical professional groups have unique requirements and a heightened awareness of the risks imposed by the pandemic,” said Carolyn Bradfield, CEO of Convey Services, parent company of Cloud Conventions. “Medical professionals not only want to stay up-to-date on scientific advances, but they also need to complete continuing medical education (CME) to maintain licensure. A virtual, on-demand option for engagement plus education ensures attendees have a safe environment to meet their educational needs, interact virtually with other attendees and engage live or on demand with suppliers and sponsors.” The American Thoracic Society’s all-virtual conference in April brought together 9,000 registered attendees for 140 clinical and scientific sessions, 71 special networking events and over 3800 presentation sessions and scientific posters. The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses will offer on-demand and live sessions, a networking and innovation lounge, an exhibitor solutions center hosting in-booth sessions, product showcases along with an innovation theater. “Striking the balance between a live and virtual event environment is a strategic decision that medical professional groups must make as they consider event design today and even more in the future,” said James Kelley, Director at the MCI Group. “Our customers rely on MCI to guide them to deliver the best options that engage audiences before, during and after the event ensuring that virtual environments complement and not conflict with the on-site program.” A recent research study, “Association Trends: from Disruption to Opportunity” by Community Brands, revealed that 85% of association event professionals plan to invest more in virtual events in the next 12 months. This trend is driven by a 48% increase in members engaging more with their associations due to increased virtual options and on-demand education. The Tagoras 2020 “Virtual Conference Report” detailed that 75% of those delivering virtual events did so to reach audiences who could not otherwise attend. With the increase in COVID cases driven by variants, medical professional groups are now pressed to include virtual alternatives that are specifically geared to the industry, as they enter the busy fall conference season. Download the Case Study: “The 2021 American Thoracic Society Virtual Event” for free at: https://cloudconventions.com/page/135834/ats-customer-success-story. Show organizers and event managers can learn more about Cloud Conventions by visiting https://cloudconventions.com and the MCI Group by visiting http://www.mci-group.com/usa. About The MCI Group MCI is a global engagement and marketing agency. We design human-centric solutions that unleash the power of people to deliver innovation and growth for our clients. Our offering includes live & virtual events, strategic & digital communications, consulting & community solutions. We help brands, companies, associations, and not-for-profits solve their challenges, bringing their people together to shape their tomorrow. MCI is an independently owned company headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with a global presence in 60 offices across 31 countries. www.mci-group.com MCI’s US headquarters is in the Washington, DC area with offices in New York, Baltimore, Dallas, and Chicago. www.mci-group.com/usa About Cloud Conventions Cloud Conventions from Convey Services is Cloud Conventions is an enterprise virtual/hybrid event management platform that redefines the exhibitor and attendee experience to allow companies to provide easy access to in-depth product information, showcase their brands with graphics and videos, create calls to action and generate immediate sales leads. Used around the world for large managed events and smaller self-directed meetings, conferences and corporate kickoffs, Cloud Conventions automates exhibitors and virtual booths, continuing education, speaker sessions and reminders, invitations and email communication, while at the same time producing detailed analytics on attendee, session and exhibitor activity. Cloud Conventions supports multiple languages and currencies, internal, external and single-sign on registration, and supports all conferencing carriers and platforms. Trade Associations and event managers can explore all of the Cloud Conventions solutions by visiting https://cloudconventions.com or contacting info@cloudconventions.com or call 888-975-1382. Cloud Conventions™, Community™, Cloud Kickoffs™, Conduct™, One-Touch Email Share™, Hub & Spoke™, 360° Virtual Exhibit Hall & Lobby Experience™ and ListLock™ are trademarks of Convey Services LLC Contact Details Convey Services Bruce Ahern +1 770-580-0810 bahern@conveyservices.com Company Website https://cloudconventions.com

August 04, 2021 03:09 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Velocity Global hires tech operations leader Eric Schroeder as Chief Operating Officer

Velocity Global

Velocity Global, the leading provider of global employment solutions, added technology operations veteran Eric Schroeder as chief operating officer. Schroeder applies two decades of operations leadership to support clients, their distributed workforces, and scale Velocity Global’s worldwide team. “Eric led global safety operations for Uber, one of the world’s top tech companies that combines complex infrastructure with a simple human experience,” said Ben Wright, Velocity Global founder and CEO. “His global operations expertise aligns directly with our global work platform for an always-on connection between employers and the talent who rely on us for everything from timely, accurate payroll to customized compliant solutions in global markets.” Schroeder most recently was vice president of operations for autonomous driving company, Ghost. Prior to that, he was head of global safety operations for Uber and also held roles as General Manager for Utah and Northern California. Before Uber, he spent three years with McKinsey and Company in the U.S. and South Africa. Schroeder is also a proud Army veteran where he served in Special Forces and completed two combat deployments to Afghanistan. “My experience at Uber inspired a passion for the future of work — the balance of opportunity and owning how, when, and where you work,” said Schroeder. “I’ve long been impressed with Ben and the team at Velocity Global where I now direct that passion in a way the world has not yet experienced. The team built and maintains the backbone of global employment, enhanced by a first-class technology experience. The multifaceted platform connects employers with talent anywhere in the world.” The company’s global work platform simplifies the employer and employee experience through proprietary cloud-based workforce management technology, personalized expertise, and unmatched global scale. Users access a streamlined technology interface as well as partner with a dedicated experience team for individualized solutions and expertise. As the largest global Employer of Record (EoR) in 185 countries and all 50 United States, Velocity Global manages a client’s workforce and provides in-country and in-state compliance, payroll, and benefits for the supported employees. The company also offers Independent Contractor Compliance to assess a workforce, and Agent of Record (AoR) to streamline payments to contractors globally. Schroeder leads the customer experience and delivery team, global payroll and benefits, and worldwide operations with employees across five continents. About Velocity Global Velocity Global accelerates the future of work beyond borders. Its global work platform simplifies the employer and employee experience through proprietary cloud-based workforce management technology, personalized expertise, and unmatched scale. As the largest global Employer of Record (also known as International PEO) in 185 countries and all 50 United States, more than 1,000 brands rely on Velocity Global to build global teams without the cost or complexity of setting up foreign legal entities or state registrations. The company offers additional services including Independent Contractor Compliance to assess a workforce, and Agent of Record (AoR) to streamline payments to contractors. Velocity Global was named a “Leader” in Global Employer of Record services by prominent analyst firm NelsonHall. Founded in 2014, the company has hundreds of employees across five continents. For more information visit velocityglobal.com. Contact Details Velocity Global John Hall +1 720-650-4348 news@velocityglobal.com Company Website https://velocityglobal.com/

August 04, 2021 07:02 AM Mountain Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Exchange Listing Facilitates and Advises NASDAQ Uplisting for Worksport Ltd., Eco-Conscious Maker of Solar-Powered Systems and Tonneau Covers for Light-Duty Trucks

Exchange Listing

Exchange Listing LLC announced that its client, Worksport Ltd. (Nasdaq-CM: WKSP; WKSPW) (“ Worksport ” or the “Company”), successfully priced its Nasdaq Capital Markets uplisting on August 3, 2021. The Ontario-based company is an environmentally astute manufacturer of trucking and transportation equipment. The Company’s common stock began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “WKSP” on August 4, 2021. Concurrent with the Nasdaq listing, Worksport priced an underwritten public offering of 3,272,727 units at a price to the public of $5.50 per unit. with gross proceeds of approximately $18.0 million. Each unit consists of an immediately separable share of common stock and one common stock purchase warrant with an exercise price of $6.05 per share. The warrant also began trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “WKSPW” on August 4, 2021. Exchange Listing served as an advisor to Worksport on all aspects of preparation and execution of the public offering. Maxim Group acted as the sole book-running manager for the public offering. With an acute understanding of the need for environmentally friendly trucking and transportation products, Worksport innovates products that are both functional and highly effective in serving the evolving needs of commercial clients around the globe. “ Exchange Listing recognized our market leadership potential from the early stages. Their incredible counsel, support, professional connections and expertise brought us to completing our IPO and completing a Nasdaq listing,” says Steven Rossi, Worksport’s CEO. TerraVis™, a solar-based tonneau cover, is the Company’s latest innovation that uses the sun to produce onboard power for pickup trucks. Worksport tonneau covers currently serve customers in both the United States and Canada. “We commenced our partnership with Worksport in 2019 and immediately recognized their innovative market leadership,” commented Peter Goldstein, the CEO of Exchange Listing. “We were confident in the strength of the Company’s management team, and saw its ability in filling a critical void in the trucking and transportation industries for eco-friendly products. Working hand in hand with Worksport’s management and our partners at Maxim Group, we launched our efforts while the Company was an OTCQB company with a goal of uplisting on Nasdaq Capital Markets.” Exchange Listing provides companies with cost-effective and efficient direct access to one-stop solutions in the strategic planning and implementation of listing on senior exchanges such as the Nasdaq or NYSE. Focusing on company-specific structuring to meet listing requirements, Exchange Listing serves as the primary point of contact with the exchange, investment bankers and lawyers throughout the listing process. With extensive experience in investment banking, securities law, corporate governance and business management, Exchange Listing and its strategic partners facilitate clients' listing and capital markets objectives. About Exchange Listing Exchange Listing provides growth companies with direct access to a one-stop solution in the strategic planning and implementation of listing on a senior exchange such as NASDAQ or NYSE in a cost effective and efficient process. We assist clients in going public whether through an initial public offering, listing from another marketplace, merger or direct offering. We serve as the primary point of contact with the exchange, investment bankers, lawyers and other service providers. Our founders, strategic partners and advisors are entrepreneurs with backgrounds in investment banking, securities law, corporate governance and business management and have served as officers and directors of public and private companies. We pride ourselves in taking a hands-on role with our clients throughout the listing process. For more information, please visit: www.exchangelistingllc.com or contact info@exchangelistingllc.com. Contact Details WantLeverage Communications Julie Livingston +1 347-239-0249 julie@wantleverage.com Company Website https://exchangelistingllc.com/

August 04, 2021 08:07 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Agora Data’s CTO Chad Stilwell Presents at CIADA

Agora

Agora Data CTO Chad Stilwell will be presenting “ Leading-Edge Changes in Auto Financing ” at the Carolinas Independent Auto Dealers Association (CIADA) conference. Stilwell will highlight recent changes in auto financing and demonstrate how data analytics and advance technology can be used to improve portfolio performance. The CIADA conference is scheduled for August 5-8, 2021, at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. “Applying data and predictability to loan performance is ground-breaking for the subprime auto industry,” said Chad Stilwell, Chief Technology Officer of Agora Data. “In addition to the sophisticated analytics Agora uses to build our financing programs, we also make available to our members at no charge the ability to power up their portfolios using our technology platform. This allows our members to help evaluate real-time loan performance, identify opportunities to reduce risk, and make better decisions to build their businesses.” Agora Data is revolutionizing subprime auto financing by utilizing billions of dollars of historical loan data to predict loan performance with over 10,000 probabilities applied to each loan daily. With these robust data analytics, driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning, Buy Here Pay Here dealers and small to mid-sized finance companies have access to a wider range of capital options to help fuel growth. Applying data-driven solutions and certainty to an underserved and underbanked industry is enabling BHPH auto dealers to gain access to Wall Street capital and help level the playing field with the large dealer groups. Attendees won’t want to miss “ Leading-Edge Changes in Auto Financing.” It is the CIADA presentation that is changing the future for BHPH dealers and small to mid-sized financing companies. Visit Agora Data at booth #15 for a more personal discussion about increasing access to capital. About Agora Data, Inc: Agora Data is a platform built to deliver a suite of tools to empower buy-here-pay-here dealers and finance companies to maximize their success. Agora is disrupting and influencing the industry by connecting its dealer and finance company members to Wall Street and other capital resources that were previously only available to large dealer groups. Agora Data’s family of auto finance products provides a wide range of critical funding paths so originators can obtain the cash they need to fuel growth. Powered by Agora’s proprietary, radical, AI-infused technology platform, originators now have access to robust data analytics and planning resources to help optimize the performance of their portfolio. Agora Data made history by closing the first-ever Crowdsourced Subprime Auto Securitization in 2020 and followed that up with its second transaction in early 2021. For more information, visit agoradata.com and become a member or contact us at 877-592-4672. Contact Details Shelly Vandeven +1 682-282-4130 media@agoradata.com Company Website https://agoradata.com/

August 03, 2021 09:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Cyvatar Launches First-Ever Cybersecurity Side Hustle

Cyvatar

Cyvatar today announced the release of the CydeHustle, a customer referral program that helps everyday people earn extra money on the side by referring organizations in their network to Cyvatar. The CydeHustle is easy work you can do in your spare time. In just a few minutes, you can not only bring in more money for yourself, but you can also enable people from all walks of life to help tip the cyber scales in favor of the good guys by stopping threat actors from breaching the brands and businesses we love. Organizations face more than 100,000 malicious websites and 10,000 malicious files every single day. Last year, malware increased by 358% and ransomware by 435% -- in fact, ransomware alone is now a multibillion-dollar industry staffed with expert researchers, strategists, technologists, and front-line hackers. Cyvatar’s ground-breaking cybersecurity as a service (CSaaS) levels the playing field so that any organization regardless of size or budget can combat threat actors. Joining the CydeHustle means you can enjoy the rewarding experience of keeping the businesses in your network safe... and get paid for it. "The Cyvatar CydeHustle program is a no-brainer, and the corresponding partner portal makes it easy to earn money on the side,” said CydeHustler Chris W. “Just as much as Cyvatar simplifies cybersecurity management for customers, it’s absolute simplicity to earn easy commissions with Cyvatar, even while juggling a full-time position and family responsibilities. Now anyone can be a deal-making machine!" Every CydeHustle referral that becomes a sale earns money for the person who introduces them: 20% of the sale price when the contract is signed, 10% of any upgrades purchased in the first year, and an additional 5% each year the referral renews. It’s easy money. Everybody needs better security, and Cyvatar’s CSaaS enables organizations to get better security outcomes fast. “The CydeHustle is so easy and so lucrative that we’ve already paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to CydeHustlers,” said Edward Preston, vice president of sales at Cyvatar. "Partners get paid for referring companies in their networks, those businesses get a game-changing cybersecurity program, and our world becomes safer from the onslaught of cyber threats.” Importantly, Cyvatar CSaaS is both accessible and affordable: For as little as $20 a month, customers receive out-of-the-box cybersecurity that includes products and services, a platform to manage them, and an expert team to support them -- all for one fixed monthly price. What’s more, Cyvatar sells itself -- it’s one of the 50 Most Trustworthy Companies recognized by the Silicon Review and has won 20 awards for cybersecurity innovation and excellence. CydeHustlers can keep their day jobs or Hustle between classes, after work, or from the far reaches of the world, because the Hustle is real -- and risk-free. Cyvatar keeps individual participation completely private unless participants explicitly choose to share their activity publicly. So what are you waiting for? Make a difference. Make an introduction. Make the world a safer place by keeping threat actors away from the businesses you know and love. All you have to do is sign up. Share the Cyvatar story. And get paid. Sign up and start earning today! About Cyvatar Cyvatar is committed to effortless cybersecurity for everyone. As the industry’s first subscription-based, cybersecurity-as-a-service (CSaaS) company, it’s our mission to transform the way the security industry builds, sells, and supports cyber solutions. We empower our members to achieve successful outcomes by providing expert advisors, proven technologies, and a strategic process roadmap to guarantee results that map to their business drivers. Our approach is rooted in proprietary ICARM (installation, configuration, assessment, remediation, maintenance) methodology that delivers smarter, measurable security solutions for superior compliance and cyber-attack protection faster and more efficiently, all at a fixed monthly price. And because we’re a subscription, members can cancel anytime. Cyvatar is headquartered in Irvine, California with locations around the world. Begin your journey to security confidence at cyvatar.ai and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Contact Details Cyvatar KC Higgins +1 303-434-8163 kc@cyvatar.ai Company Website https://cyvatar.ai/

August 03, 2021 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Going on Vacation? Have Your Home Pay for It

YourUpdateTV

Your weekend outdoors, last minute getaway, or long-awaited reunion with family or friends can be made possible by sharing your space. Recently, Communications Leads for North America at Airbnb, Liz DeBold Fusco, teamed with YourUpdateTV on a satellite media tour to share tips on how to become a host. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/xkLGGNrt7TE Yes, you don’t have to decide between being a Host or a guest, because you can be both at the same time. Inspired by this major travel shift, Airbnb upgraded their service to make it easier for people to integrate travel into their lives, and for more people to become Hosts. This is something that Airbnb Hosts are already doing. More than 13 percent of them said they shared their space with visitors while traveling for vacation or work. Also, according to a recent Airbnb report, half of the new listings that were both activated and booked in early 2021 got a reservation request within four days, and as of April 30, 2021, the average annual earnings per Host who had welcomed at least one guest during the preceding year was $9,600. Now, Airbnb made it even easier for anyone who wants to take advantage of the coming travel surge by hosting, with a brand new onboarding process that has been simplified from dozens of steps to just 10. Prospective Hosts can also use the What’s My Place Worth tool to estimate how much they’ll earn by sharing their home. The interactive tool computes the estimated income through inputs for geography, type of listing and space and factors in prior Airbnb booking data in the area. And for travelers, Airbnb launched a new tool called Flexible Destinations, to make it easier than ever to discover these special stays. Clicking on the ‘I’m Flexible’ button will reveal unique listing categories with those nearest to your location right at the top of the list. If you are looking to share your space this summer to pay for your vacation, you can get started as a host by going to Airbnb.com/host. About Liz DeBold Fusco: Liz DeBold Fusco is a Communications Leads for North America for Airbnb. Prior to that, she was a Vice President at SKDKnickerbocker, a national public affairs firm, where she provided strategic communications guidance to organizations ranging from the NAACP and Demos to The Rockefeller Foundation and AT&T. Liz has also worked for Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City and New York City First Lady Chirlane McCray as well as the New York State Attorney General. About YourUpdateTV: YourUpdateTV is a social media video portal for organizations to share their content. It includes separate channels for Health and Wellness, Lifestyle, Media and Entertainment, Money and Finance, Social Responsibility, Sports and Technology. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

August 02, 2021 03:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Foresight Signs MOU for Cooperation With Global Chinese Vehicle Manufacturer Chery

Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd.

Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq and TASE: FRSX), an innovator in automotive vision systems, announced today the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a multiphase business cooperation with Wuhu Chery Technology Co., LTD (Chery), a global Chinese vehicle manufacturer and Xuanyuan Idrive Technology Co. Ltd. (XY), a subsidiary of Wuhan Guide Infrared Co. (Guide Infrared) (Shenzhen stock code: 002414, market cap of approximately $10 billion), a leading Chinese developer and manufacturer of infrared thermal imaging systems. During the first phase, Chery will test the QuadSight ® vision prototype system for the purpose of evaluating Foresight’s technology and its potential further integration into advanced solutions for vehicles manufactured by Chery. Upon successful evaluation, the parties will negotiate a commercial agreement for the co-development of advanced solutions based on Foresight’s technology integrated with XY’s automotive sensors. The advanced solutions are designed for potential integration into semi- and fully autonomous vehicles manufactured by Chery. As a part of the cooperation, the parties will consider establishing a joint venture in China, by themselves or with third parties. Furthermore, the parties are considering promoting and selling the advanced solutions in Greater China through the joint venture. Additionally, to help accelerate innovation in the autonomous vehicles market and enable Foresight’s product expansion, Chery will consider a strategic investment in Foresight, in an amount and upon terms and conditions to be negotiated in the future. “By signing this cooperation MOU with a leading automotive OEM, we continue our strategy to expand our presence in the Chinese automotive market. Our advanced 3D vision technologies combined with Guide Infrared’s thermal imaging capabilities potentially offer an accurate and reliable vision solution that can be integrated into Chery’s semi- and fully autonomous vehicles to enhance their current safety systems,” said Haim Siboni, CEO of Foresight. “I believe that this vote of confidence from another vehicle manufacturer, along with a potential strategic investment, may open the door for additional opportunities worldwide and specifically in the Asian automotive market.” About Wuhu Chery Technology Chery is a Chinese automotive brand with global influence. It has a powerful R&D strength of engine, gearbox, chassis and other core technologies among Chinese automobile brands, and has established a global automobile R&D team of more than 5,500 people. Meanwhile, Chery is also among the first Chinese automobile company to export vehicles, complete knock-down parts, engines and vehicle manufacturing technology and equipment to the world. Up until now, Chery has exported its vehicles to more than 80 countries and regions, with nearly 9.4 million users worldwide, ranking first in the number of passenger cars exported from China for 18 consecutive years. About Wuhan Guide Infrared Wuhan Guide Infrared Co., Ltd. (Shenzhen stock code: 002414), founded in 1999, is engaged in manufacturing infrared detectors and cameras, comprehensive electro-optical systems and large-scale defense systems. Guide Infrared provides infrared solutions, ranging from infrared devices up to complete systems. The Company has established a state-of-the-art mass production facility located at China Optics Valley in Wuhan with more than 2,600 employees. Guide Infrared develops and manufactures infrared solutions for national defense security, protection systems, diagnostic tools, smart home, internet of things, intelligent terminals, machine vision systems, automotive industry, unmanned planes and other applications. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Foresight is using forward-looking statements in this press release when it discusses that Chery will test the QuadSight® vision prototype system, that, subject to certain conditions, Chery and Foresight will negotiate a commercial agreement for the co-development of advanced solutions, that the parties will consider establishing a joint venture in China, that Chery may consider a strategic investment in Foresight, and that MOU and a potential strategic investment by Chery in Foresight may bring additional opportunities worldwide and specifically in the Asian automotive market for Foresight. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Foresight’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, performance or achievements of Foresight could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Foresight's annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 30, 2021, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Foresight undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. Foresight is not responsible for the contents of third-party websites. About Foresight Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq and TASE: FRSX) is a technology company developing smart multi-spectral vision software solutions and cellular-based applications. Through the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries, Foresight Automotive Ltd. and Eye-Net Mobile Ltd., Foresight develops both “in-line-of-sight” vision systems and “beyond-line-of-sight” accident-prevention solutions. Foresight’s vision solutions include modules of automatic calibration, sensor fusion and dense 3D point cloud that can be applied to diverse markets such as automotive, defense, autonomous vehicles and heavy industrial equipment. Eye-Net Mobile’s cellular-based solution suite provides real-time pre-collision alerts to enhance road safety and situational awareness for all road users in the urban mobility environment by incorporating cutting-edge AI technology and advanced analytics. For more information about Foresight and its wholly owned subsidiary, Foresight Automotive, visit www.foresightauto.com, follow @ForesightAuto1 on Twitter, or join Foresight Automotive on LinkedIn. Contact Details Investor Relations Contact: Miri Segal-Scharia, CEO, MS-IR LLC +1 917-607-8654 msegal@ms-ir.com Company Website https://www.foresightauto.com/

August 02, 2021 08:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Ev Dynamics Joins Forces with Quantron through a Share Swap to Form a New Electric Vehicle Powerhouse

Ev Dynamics (Holdings) Limited

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 29 July 2021 - Ev Dynamics (Holdings) Limited (the "Company", formerly known as China Dynamics (Holdings) Limited; Stock Code: 476, together with its subsidiaries, collectively “Ev Dynamics” or the "Group"), which provides new energy vehicles and technology integrated solutions, has signed a share swap agreement with Quantron AG (“Quantron”), a Germany-based company engaging in inner city e-mobility and regional passenger and freight transport, in a bid to expand its global new energy vehicle production, engineering, marketing and sales, and after-sale service setup. Pursuant to the agreement, Ev Dynamics has conditionally agreed to subscribe for 6,459 subscription shares of Quantron, representing approximately 10.18% of the enlarged share capital of the German company, at a consideration of EUR5,000,000 (equivalent to approximately HK$45,848,191). The consideration shall be satisfied by the Company via allotment and issuance of 254,712,175 consideration shares at HK$0.18 per share to Quantron. The issue price of HK$0.18 represents a premium of approximately 44.00% to the closing price of HK$0.125 per share as quoted on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited on 28 July 2021, being the last trading day prior to the date of the agreement. Upon completion of the deal, the Company will hold a total of 9,157 shares of Quantron, representing approximately 14.43% of the enlarged share capital of the German company. Mr. Miguel Valldecabres Polop, CEO of Ev Dynamics, said: “The share swap will enable both companies to speed up profitable growth and reap synergies from sharing technical knowhow and respective market coverage. With the favourable policies and market trend of electrification of passenger and freight transports, Quantron has continued to receive substantial purchase orders and service quotations from customers and source e-platform and e-vehicle components from the Group to meet customer demand. The transaction will allow us to leverage the business network and experience of Quantron in Europe, giving us a good opportunity to expand into the light and medium e-delivery trucks market in Europe. Ev Dynamics will become one of the production plants for Quantron.” Mr. Andreas Haller, member of the board and founder of Quantron, said: “Quantron and Ev Dynamics will jointly develop zero-emission electric vehicles, hydrogen bus and logistic vehicles. The products and services will be designed and engineered by Quantron, which is well developed in Germany and Europe, where Ev Dynamics will manufacture the vehicles. The two companies will evaluate strategic partnerships with fuel cell technology companies. We believe the share swap is another milestone in the strategic growth of the two companies.” Mr. Michael Perschke, international advisor of Ev Dynamics, added: “Quantron is a dominant player in the European electric vehicle market and Ev Dynamics is a prominent player in China’s new energy commercial vehicle sector. By joining forces, both companies will gain access not only to new markets but also additional engineering capabilities.” About Ev Dynamics (Holdings) Limited (Stock Code: 476) Ev Dynamics (Holdings) Limited is a pioneer and a prominent player in China’s new energy commercial vehicles market, as well as a whole-vehicle manufacturer of specialty passenger vehicles and new energy passenger vehicles. It is an integrated driving and logistics solutions provider with a solid technological foundation in diverse areas including new energy platform power system and its key components. The Group has production base in Chongqing and it has developed its sales network in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Asia Pacific and South America. About Quantron AGQuantron AG is a system provider of clean battery and hydrogen-powered e-mobility for commercial vehicles such as trucks, buses and vans. In addition to new electric vehicles, the wide range of services offered by the innovation forge includes the electrification of used and existing vehicles, the creation of individual overall concepts including the appropriate charging infrastructure as well as rental, financing and leasing offers and driver training. Quantron AG also sells batteries and integrated customised electrification concepts to manufacturers of commercial vehicles, machinery and intralogistics vehicles. The German company from Augsburg in Bavaria is a pioneer and innovation driver for e-mobility in passenger, transport and freight traffic. Contact Details Strategic Financial Relations Limited Vicky Lee +852 2864 4834 vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk Strategic Financial Relations Limited Phoebe Leung +852 2114 4172 phoebe.leung@sprg.com.hk Strategic Financial Relations Limited Eddie Li +852 2114 4170 eddie.li@sprg.com.hk Quantron AG Volker Seitz +49 821 78984086 press@quantron.net

July 29, 2021 08:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
1 ... 119120121122123 ... 145