No Internet? No Landline? No Problem, Says CaptionCall

New feature offers easy telephone captioning solution for eligible callers

SALT LAKE CITY, Nov. 18, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, CaptionCall announced a new communication feature that allows its captioned telephone service to function without a landline or home internet access. Now, people experiencing hearing loss who are eligible and who do not have access to these technologies can easily connect with loved ones, colleagues, and healthcare providers.

“Connection is critical to our lives and to our relationships, especially during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic,” says CaptionCall Chief Executive Officer Scott Wood. “We want to extend our service to those without landlines or internet access in their homes. Those people also want to make calls and understand – and be understood – during phone conversations. We are excited to remove another barrier in communication for people who are hard-of-hearing.”

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reports 19 million Americans – or 6 percent of the population – still lack access to fixed broadband service at the speed required to connect to Wi-Fi (25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload). With the internet becoming an essential way to communicate, those without it risk being left behind and becoming isolated in their communication. The situation can be even more challenging for people with hearing loss who also lack internet access. This may put them at increased risk of isolation and depression, which can lead to other serious health issues.

By removing the need for home internet access or a landline, CaptionCall, which uses Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS), is providing essential access to communication to people who experience hearing loss and who need captions to use the phone.

CaptionCall Chief Marketing Officer Paul Kershisnik says, “We all need access to communication services so we can connect with other people – it’s vital to our wellbeing!”

For more information about CaptionCall, visit www.captioncall.com or call 877-557-2227.

CaptionCall, LLC

CaptionCall is the industry leader in the provision of captioned-telephone service that is available at no-cost to anyone who has hearing loss that necessitates the use of captions to use the phone. While hearing loss affects millions of people for many different reasons – age, illness, injury, loud working conditions, and military service – it doesn’t have to limit the quality of their phone conversations. With CaptionCall, it’s easy to communicate confidently with friends, family, and colleagues.

CaptionCall uses advanced voice recognition technology, a transcription service, and human captioning agents to quickly provide written captions of what callers say on a large, easy-to-read screen. The CaptionCall phone works like a traditional telephone – callers simply dial and answer calls, as usual, and speak and listen using a phone handset. CaptionCall users see captions of what callers say.

All eligible customers receive Red Carpet Service that includes professional installation, product training, and friendly customer support, enabling people everywhere to get more from their phone conversations – and more from life.

Press Contact

Ann Bardsley
Director of Public Relations
CaptionCall
801-287-9400
[email protected]



Estimated net sales of SEK 850-1,050 million and SEK 300-400 million in operational EBIT added during FY 2021/2022

PR Newswire

STOCKHOLM, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Embracer Group AB (“Embracer”) and its subsidiaries have as previously communicated this morning entered into 13 acquisition agreements (the “Acquisitions”). The acquired businesses are, during the financial year ending 31 March 2022, expected to contribute to Embracer Group’s net sales in the range of SEK 850-1,050 million and contribute to operational EBIT in the range of SEK 300-400 million. In addition, during FY 2021/2022 the expanded studio footprint is expected to bring savings on capitalized game development in the range of SEK 50-100 million. The combined operational EBIT and savings on game development are expected to be in the range of SEK 350-500 million and this profitability is expected to grow in the following years as more game development projects will be completed.

The aggregated day one purchase price for the Acquisitions amounts to approximately SEK 2.0 billion on a cash and debt free basis. Approximately SEK 1.7 billion is paid in cash and SEK 0.3 billion in newly issued Embracer B shares with a maximum additional consideration amounting to SEK 1.8 billion, which is subject to fulfilment of agreed milestones, both operational and financial, over a period of up to 10 years. The additional consideration comprise a maximum of approximately SEK 0.9 billion which may be paid in cash and a maximum approximately SEK 0.9 billion to be paid in Embracer B shares at a price corresponding to the volume weighted average price per Embracer B share at Nasdaq First North Growth Market during 20 trading days up until and including the date of signing of the Acquisitions (VWAP 20). The aggregated maximum consideration amounts to SEK 3.8 billion.

The total number of shares that are issued as part of the aggregate consideration, excluding shares issued as part of earn-out structures, amounts to approximately 1,723,000 Embracer B shares issued at a price of approximately SEK 174 per B share. The part of the additional consideration consisting of Embracer B shares amounts to a maximum of approximately 5,170,000 shares provided that all earn out targets are met. Approximately 1,367,000 B shares being part of the additional consideration are issued at closing of the Acquisitions and subject to such as claw back rights and lock-up restrictions. A maximum of approximately 3,803,000 B shares may be issued in the future as additional consideration subject to fulfillment of certain targets. The share issues are made pursuant to the authorization granted by the extra general meeting held on 16 November 2020.

The Acquisitions

All of Embracer’s operating units – THQ Nordic, Deep Silver/Koch Media, Coffee Stain, Amplifier Games Invest, Saber Interactive and Deca Games – are making bolt-on acquisitions. Embracer onboards more than 1,250 experienced and talented people, strengthens its developer footprint in Eastern Europe as well as its development and UA capabilities within free-to-play. In most of the transactions, earn-outs and management incentives over 5-10 years, have been put in place to ensure long term alignment with the founders and management teams joining Embracer.

The announced Acquisitions are aligned with Embracer’s growth strategy and is enabled by the group’s decentralized operating model. Over the past three years, Embracer has expanded from one to six operating units. Each of these operating units have put in place their own M&A agenda with the purpose of adding additional organic growth opportunities and to improve long term profit and cash flow generation. For Embracer’s decentralized operating model to be sustainable and scalable, it is a necessity that most acquisitions are originated and onboarded on the operating unit level. For the Embracer operating model with emphasis on decentralized decision making and independence for local management to work, it is also necessary that founders and management of acquired companies join Embracer with a long-term mindset.

Through the Acquisitions, Embracer Group grows to 58 internal studios and more than 5,700 employees and contracted employees in more than 45 countries.

Embracer’s inhouse developer footprint is expanded by 767 developers, equivalent to a 30 percent increase and brings the total number of internal developers to 3,318. The total headcounts within the group increases to more than 5,700 employees and contracted employees following the Acquisitions. The management depth is further extended by the addition of strong business leaders and local management teams with an impressive track record, where many of the acquired companies are leading premium games developers in their respective countries.

Deca Operating Unit will triple in size in terms of revenues and employees

Embracer entered the free-to-play games segment with the acquisition of Deca Games in August 2020. Today, the Deca Operating Unit is established with the addition of A Thinking Ape and IUGO, two studios based in Canada. Embracer estimate the new Deca Operating Unit will triple in size in terms of revenues and employees and create a full scale free-to-play operation with expertise across IP origination, game development, marketing, user acquisition and live operations. Deca Games, A Thinking Ape and IUGO will continue to operate as independent companies within the Deca Operating Unit free-to-play ecosystem with their respective management teams continuously responsible for day-to-day operations. Founders and management across these businesses have a long term alignment with Embracer and shares a passion for creating a substantial free-to-play business over time through a combination of organic growth and by welcoming more FTP gaming entrepreneurs to the Embracer family.

Embracer Group’s capital allocation strategy are essential for continued growth

The capital allocation priorities for Embracer are unchanged. The first priority for allocation of operational cash flow from released games to reinvest as much as possible into value enhancing organic growth opportunities, e.g. new game projects. The second priority is to use free cash flow to finance, bolt-on acquisitions in the operating units.

Embracer reiterates the ambition to maintain a strong balance sheet and strives to maintain a net cash position to maintain maximum strategic flexibility. For the right inorganic growth opportunity, financial leverage could temporarily exceed 1,0x operational EBIT to net debt, where operational EBIT is measured as management expectations for the coming twelve months. In such circumstances, leverage should at least return to below 1,0x net debt to operational EBIT over the medium term, either by retaining cash from operations or by raising primary capital in the equity market.

Cash at hand and available credit facilities post the cash payment of the Acquisitions amounts to more than SEK 8.5 billion. Furthermore, on 16 November 2020, the extra general meeting authorized the board of directors to issue B shares in the amount not exceeding ten (10) percent of the total number of shares in the Company at the time when the authorization is used the first time to fund acquisitions, parts of this mandate has been used according to the Acquisitions. The ambition is to continue to partly fund acquisitions with equity to create long term alignment with founders and management joining Embracer.

The shares and dilution

Through the Acquisitions, Embracer may in aggregate issue, including earn-out consideration shares, a total of approximately 6,893,000 shares, meaning that the number of shares in Embracer can increase from 421,139,665 to approximately 428,032,665 B shares, and that the number of votes can increase from 721,731,898 to approximately 728,624,898.

The total number of shares that are issued as part of the aggregate consideration, excluding shares issued as part of earn-out structures, are issued at a price of approximately SEK 174 per B share.

The part of the additional consideration for the Acquisitions consisting of Embracer B shares amounts to a maximum of approximately 5,170,000 shares provided that all earn out targets are met. Approximately 1,367,000 B shares being part of the additional consideration are issued at closing of the Acquisitions and subject to such as claw back rights and lock-up restrictions. A maximum of approximately 3,803,000 B shares may be issued in the future as additional consideration subject to fulfillment of certain targets. All earn-out shares are issued at a price of approximately SEK 174 per B share.

The Acquisitions will, if all earn-out consideration shares are issued, lead to a dilution of approximately 1.61 percent of the share capital and approximately 0.95 percent of the votes in Embracer based on the number of shares and votes in Embracer following completion of the Acquisitions and issuance of all earn-out consideration shares.

All shares issued as part of the consideration for the Acquisitions, excluding the earn-out consideration shares, are issued based on the authorization from the extra general meeting on 16 November 2020.

Advisers

Ernst & Young AB is providing transaction support and Baker McKenzie is acting as legal counsel to Embracer in connection with the Acquisitions.

Responsible party

This information constitutes inside information that Embracer Group AB is obliged to make public in accordance with the (EU) Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014. The information in this press release has been made public through the agency of the responsible person set out below for publication at the time stated by Embracer Group’s news distributor Cision at the publication of this press release. The responsible person below may be contacted for further information.

For additional information, please contact:

Lars Wingefors, Co-founder and Group CEO Embracer Group AB

Tel: +46 708 47 19 78

E-mail: [email protected]

About Embracer Group

Embracer Group is the parent company of businesses developing and publishing PC, console and mobile games for the global games market. Embracer Group has an extensive catalogue of over 190 owned franchises, such as Saints Row, Goat Simulator, Dead Island, Darksiders, Metro, MX vs ATV, Kingdoms of Amalur, TimeSplitters, Satisfactory, Wreckfest, Insurgency and World War Z, amongst many others.

With its head office based in Karlstad, Sweden, Embracer Group has a global presence through its six operative groups: THQ Nordic GmbH, Koch Media GmbH/Deep Silver, Coffee Stain AB, Amplifier Game Invest, Saber Interactive and DECA Games. Embracer Group has 46 internal game development studios and is engaging more than 4,000 employees and contracted employees in more than 40 countries.

Embracer Group’s shares are publicly listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market Stockholm under the ticker EMBRAC B with FNCA Sweden AB as its Certified Adviser; [email protected] +46-8-528 00 399.

Subscribe to press releases and financial information:

https://embracer.com/investors/subscription/

For more information, please visit: http://www.embracer.com

Important information

The release, announcement or distribution of this press release may, in certain jurisdictions, be subject to restrictions. The recipients of this press release in jurisdictions where this press release has been published or distributed shall inform themselves of and follow such restrictions. The recipient of this press release is responsible for using this press release, and the information contained herein, in accordance with applicable rules in each jurisdiction. This press release does not constitute an offer, or a solicitation of any offer, to buy or subscribe for any securities in Embracer Group in any jurisdiction, neither from Embracer Group nor from someone else.

This announcement does not identify or suggest, or purport to identify or suggest, the risks (direct or indirect) that may be associated with an investment in Embracer’s shares. Any investment decision regarding Embracer’s shares must be made on the basis of all publicly available information relating to the company and the company’s shares. The information contained in this announcement is for background purposes only and does not purport to be full or complete. No reliance may be placed for any purpose on the information contained in this announcement or its accuracy or completeness. This announcement does not constitute a recommendation. Each investor or prospective investor should conduct his, her or its own investigation, analysis and evaluation of the business and data described in this announcement and publicly available information. The price and value of securities can go down as well as up. Past performance is not a guide to future performance.

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the company’s intentions, beliefs, or current expectations about and targets for the company’s future results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects, anticipated growth, strategies and opportunities and the markets in which the company operates. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “estimate”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “aim” or “might”, or, in each case, their negative, or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that they will materialize or prove to be correct. Because these statements are based on assumptions or estimates and are subject to risks and uncertainties, the actual results or outcome could differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements as a result of many factors. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this release by such forward-looking statements. Embracer does not guarantee that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this press release are free from errors and readers of this press release should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this press release. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements that are expressly or implicitly contained herein speak only as of its date and are subject to change without notice. Neither the Embracer nor anyone else undertake to review, update, confirm or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that arise in relation to the content of this press release, unless it is not required by law or Nasdaq First North Growth Market’s rule book for issuers.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/embracer-group-ab/r/estimated-net-sales-of-sek-850-1-050-million-and-sek-300-400-million-in-operational-ebit-added-durin,c3239076

The following files are available for download:

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/estimated-net-sales-of-sek-850-1-050-million-and-sek-300-400-million-in-operational-ebit-added-during-fy-20212022–301175610.html

SOURCE Embracer Group AB

Norsk Hydro: Panasonic, Equinor and Hydro to explore potential for European battery business

Leading technology company Panasonic, energy company Equinor and industrial group Hydro have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a strategic partnership to explore possibilities for establishing a sustainable and cost-competitive European battery business.

The companies will work together towards summer 2021 to assess the market for lithium-ion batteries in Europe and mature the business case for a green battery business located in Norway. The companies intend that this initiative is based on Panasonic’s leading technology and targets the European market for electric vehicles and other applications.

The companies will also investigate the potential for an integrated battery value chain and for co-location of supply chain partners. The findings from this initial exploratory phase will form the basis for subsequent decisions.

Panasonic’s plan for expanding its footprint in the European lithium-ion battery market

Mototsugu Sato, Executive Vice President of Panasonic says the company sees the strategic partnership with Equinor and Hydro as a potential basis for future development and growth in the energy/battery sector in the European region.

“This collaboration combines Panasonic’s position as an innovative technology company and leader in lithium-ion batteries, with the deep industrial experience of Equinor and Hydro, both strong global players, to potentially pave way for a robust and sustainable battery business in Norway. Panasonic has powered the last two revolutions in the automotive industry – first by powering hybrids and now, by powering multiple generations of all electric vehicles. We are pleased to enter into this initiative to explore implementing sustainable, highly advanced technology and supply chains to deliver on the exacting needs of lithium-ion battery customers and support the renewable energy sector in the European region.”

Ambition to create a profitable, sustainable business

“Our companies seek to be leaders in the energy transition. The creation of this world-class battery partnership demonstrates Equinor’s ambition to become a broad energy company. We believe that battery storage will play an increasingly important role in bringing energy systems to net zero emissions. By pooling our different areas of energy expertise, our companies will seek to create a battery business that is profitable, scalable and sustainable,” says Al Cook, Executive Vice President of Global Strategy & Business Development in Equinor.

Electrification is a fundamental element in Europe’s transition towards net zero emissions in 2050, and batteries are expected to play a vital role in this, especially in the transportation sector, where demand is growing rapidly.

“We expect battery production to grow rapidly as a solution to the world’s number one challenge, climate change. We have already seen in recent years that Hydro’s unique combination of capabilities from renewable energy and processing industries provide a strong foundation for partnerships for exploring growth opportunities in the battery industry,” says Arvid Moss, Executive Vice President of Energy and Corporate Development in Hydro.

“We believe the combined strengths of Panasonic, Equinor and Hydro represent an attractive starting point for exploring the possibilities for a profitable and sustainable battery business in Norway, where we have a strong foothold, renewable power base and close proximity to the European market,” he says.

Preliminary findings expected around mid-2021
As part of this initial phase, the companies will directly engage potential customers in Europe’s automotive and non-automotive industries and enter into dialogue with relevant authorities in Norway and in Europe aiming at ensuring competitive framework conditions for this joint battery initiative. Preliminary findings are expected around mid-2021.

To contact the project, visit www.jointbatteryinitiative.com

About Panasonic

Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development of diverse electronics technologies and solutions for customers in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, and B2B businesses. The company, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2018, has expanded globally and now operates 528 subsidiaries and 72 associated companies worldwide. The mission at Panasonic is to make the world’s safest, highest quality, and lowest cost batteries. Through this effort, Panasonic will create a clean energy society, and our products will change society’s use of and perceptions of electric power. Committed to pursuing new value through innovation across divisional lines, the company uses its technologies to create a better life and a better world for its customers. To learn more about Panasonic: https://www.panasonic.com/.

About Equinor

Equinor is an international energy company developing oil, gas, wind and solar power in more than 30 countries worldwide. As the largest operator in Norway, a leading international offshore operator and a growing force in renewables, we are committed to a low carbon future and shaping the future of energy. We aim to reach net-zero by 2050 and we are committed to creating long-term value in support of the Paris Agreement. To learn more about Equinor, visit https://www.equinor.com/.

About Hydro

Based in Norway and with around 35,000 employees and operations in around 40 countries, Hydro is rooted in more than a century of experience in renewable energy, industrial technology scaling, innovation and operational excellence. Our purpose is to create a more viable society by developing natural resources into products and solutions in innovative and efficient ways. To learn more about Hydro, visit https://www.hydro.com/.

Investor contact:

Line Haugetraa
+47 41406376
[email protected]

Media contact:

Halvor Molland
+47 92979797
[email protected]



Johan Sverdrup production capacity further increased

PR Newswire

TRONDHEIM, Norway, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The production capacity of the Johan Sverdrup field, where Aker BP holds 11.5733 percent working interest, is set to increase to around 500,000 barrels of oil per day by the end of this year, according to an announcement from the field’s operator Equinor. This is around 60,000 barrels more than the original basis when the field came on stream last year. 

In November, the plant capacity of the Johan Sverdrup field has been tested to verify a possible production rise. The test results have been positive, paving the way for a production increase from today’s 470,000 barrels to around 500,000 barrels of oil per day by the end of this year.

Phase 2 of the Johan Sverdrup field development is on schedule, and production start is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2022. The capacity increase means that the full-field plateau production is expected to rise from 690,000 to around 720,000 barrels per day.

The Johan Sverdrup field is using water injection to secure high recovery of reserves and maintain production at a high level. Based on the positive results of the capacity test, an upgrade of the water injection capacity is being planned which should allow for a further increase in daily production by mid-2021.

Link to Equinor’s announcement: https://www.equinor.com/en/news/20201118-johan-sverdrup.html

Contacts: 
Investor contact:
Kjetil Bakken
VP Investor Relations
tel.: +47 918 89 889

Media contact: 
Ole-Johan Faret
Press Spokesman
tel.: +47 402 24 217

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-bp-asa/r/johan-sverdrup-production-capacity-further-increased,c3238924

The following files are available for download:

 

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/johan-sverdrup-production-capacity-further-increased-301175607.html

SOURCE Aker BP ASA

Strauss Group generates revenue of NIS 6.3 billion in the first nine months of 2020, reflecting 4.5% organic growth excluding foreign currency effects[1]; Net profit in the period was NIS 464 million, an increase of 4.1%

The Group’s Q3 sales totaled NIS 2.17 billion, reflecting 3.9% organic growth excluding foreign currency effects

PR Newswire

PETAH TIKVA, Israel, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Strauss Group CEO, Giora Bardea: “Strauss Group continues to deliver robust business performance despite the substantial global impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on its activities. In the first nine months and third quarter of 2020 the company recorded an improvement, particularly in product categories suited to at-home consumption, while away-from-home (AFH) categories and channels weakened significantly, trends which grew stronger in the third quarter, among other things as a result of the second lockdown in Israel.

“Managerial stability, business diversity among categories, channels and markets, as well as financial strength, which improved significantly in the period under review, have enabled the company, which has learned to “live with COVID-19” and the accompanying complexities, to deliver organic sales growth, an improvement in the operating profit margin, and an increase in net profit.

“In the reporting period the Group continued to invest substantial resources in maintaining operational and business continuity, while making every effort to protect the health and safety of its employees across all sites worldwide. Looking ahead, the company continues to invest – and has even increased its investments – in the development of categories and business areas that have the potential for growth, including various dairy alternatives, health products, fresh foods, coffee capsules and entry to the POE (point of entry) market – a water treatment solution at the point of entry to homes and buildings – in China.

“Additionally, the Group has continued to invest in the development and upgrade of existing production lines and in the construction of new plants, including the water company’s manufacturing site in China, a modern warehouse and distribution center in Ukraine, Ta’am Hateva’s new production facility at Kibbutz Bror Hayil in Israel, and the completion of the acquisition of Mitsui’s coffee business in Brazil. The company’s financial strength, especially at this time, has enabled it to seek out business opportunities in Israel and other countries across a broad range of activities, with the aim of expanding its business. At the same time, the Group has persevered in its community investment, deepening it to support population groups harmed by the COVID crisis, and considers itself part of the effort to preserve social and economic resilience in all its countries of operations.

A month ago, with great pain and sorrow, we said goodbye to Michael Strauss, son of the founders of Strauss Group. Michael was a business leader and a moral and social compass to all people in the Group and to many in the Israeli economy. We mourn his passing and salute his great contribution to the development of Israel’s flourishing industry and economy.

Strauss Group (TASE: STRS) concluded the period with solid results against the backdrop of numerous, diverse challenges, including the second lockdown in Israel, erosion of currencies against the shekel, and others. In its retail business the company delivered sales growth, particularly in product categories suited to at-home consumption, but in parallel, the closure of restaurants, hotels and cafés for extended periods as well as the drop in impulse purchases have negatively affected the Group’s sales in most companies, the coffee company in particular.

In total, Strauss Group delivered NIS 2.17 billion in revenue in the third quarter, while in the nine-month period revenue was NIS 6.3 billion, reflecting an increase of around 3.9% and 4.5%, respectively (organic, excluding FX), over last year. As a result of the weakening currencies, the company reported a drop of around 3.1% in revenue in the third quarter and of 2.2% in the nine months, compared to the corresponding periods last year.  

The foreign currency effect on the company’s sales in the third quarter amounted to approximately NIS 163 million, of which NIS 136 million are the result of the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the shekel. In the first nine months of 2020 the foreign currency effect amounted to approximately NIS 429 million, of which NIS 351 million are due to the weakening of the real against the shekel. Operating profit was NIS 250 million, up 4.8% (excluding FX effects). On translation into shekels this reflects a drop of around 2.3% compared to the corresponding quarter last year. The operating profit (EBIT) margin was 11.5%, up 0.1% compared to the corresponding quarter.

Net profit (attributed to the shareholders of the company) was NIS 158 million in the third quarter compared to NIS 153 million in the corresponding period last year; the increase is the result of a decrease in financing and tax expenses. Net profit in the nine-month period was NIS 464 million, an increase of 4.1% compared to the first nine months of 2019.

Since the beginning of the year Strauss Group has donated over 80 thousand food parcels, and the company in Israel is currently helping thousands of families to buy food products, free of charge, as part of an initiative that began in September and will be maintained with those families through to the end of the year under the slogan “Doing Good Together”. This is in addition to other efforts underway with numerous communities in Israel and around the world.

Strauss Israel

The COVID-19 crisis continues to be the major factor that affected Strauss Israel’s business in the third quarter of 2020. Like other food manufacturers in Israel and other countries, Strauss Israel has been impacted by two conflicting trends – the first, significant growth in at-home consumption, and the second, a significant drop in AFH consumption and the consumption of food for special events and parties, mainly sweet and savory snacks. The company has worked to maintain its production capacity in order to meet the high demand for its products, while making maximum efforts to protect the health and safety of its employees. In the third quarter, Strauss Israel’s sales were approximately NIS 953 million, and in the nine months – approximately NIS 2.8 billion, reflecting 6.1% and 8.1% growth, respectively, compared to sales in the corresponding periods last year.

A breakdown according to segment reveals that revenue in the Health & Wellness segment grew by around 10.4% in the quarter, mainly as a result of an increase in purchases of products for at-home consumption – yogurts, dairy desserts, milk beverages, salads and dips and spreads, Yad Mordechai products (honey and sauces), and washed and cut vegetables and fresh foods in general. In the Fun & Indulgence segment sales dropped in the third quarter by 3.2%, mainly as a result of decreasing demand for impulse and on-the-go products – particularly sweet and salty snacks. At the same time, sales of products for home baking such as chocolate tablets rose significantly.

The increase in sales and continuing efficiency and productivity processes led to an 8.6% increase in operating profit in the third quarter, which rose to NIS 106 million, with the EBIT margin rising from 10.9% to 11.1%.

Strauss Coffee

In the third quarter, Strauss Coffee demonstrated growth both in local currency sales and in quantities sold in most of the company’s operations. However, business was also affected by the drop in sales to the AFH market, i.e. institutional customers including hotels, cafés and restaurants, as well as the discontinuation of most of the business of the Elite Café chain in Israel during the quarter as a result of the second lockdown. The coffee company’s total revenue in the third quarter was approximately NIS 851 million, up 1.4% (organic) in local currency.

The coffee company in Israel wrapped up the third quarter with approximately NIS 175 million in revenue, down 10.4% compared to the corresponding period last year, mostly as a result of the drop in sales to the AFH market and discontinuation of the activity of the Elite Coffee To Go chain in September.

The coffee business in Brazil, carried out through the Três Corações joint venture[2], which is mainly active in the home consumption market, grew by around 10.0% in the quarter in local currency thanks to growth in sales volumes. The company’s market share, which includes the market share of Mitsui’s recently acquired coffee business, was 31.0% of the Brazilian coffee market at the end of the quarter. Overall, the coffee operation in Eastern Europe recorded business growth as well as growth in operating profit in local currency, and an increase in quantities sold. The business in Russia and Ukraine grew by about 5.5% in the quarter as a result of an increase in sales volumes, and in Romania sales grew by around 4.3% in local currency. In Poland and Serbia sales volumes remained effectively unchanged.

Sabra and Obela (100%)

In the third quarter, Sabra reported a 2.4% drop in sales in local currency, which amounted to approximately NIS 327 million. In the first nine months, Sabra’s sales totaled approximately NIS 1 billion, reflecting a drop of 1.1% in local currency. The decrease is primarily the result of the impact of the COVID crisis on the company’s sales in the AFH market and lower sales of portability products, which are made to customers such as convenience stores, airports and institutional customers, including restaurants. In parallel, the at-home consumption market grew. The company’s operating profit margin improved in the quarter, rising to 11.5% compared to 7.0% in the corresponding quarter, mainly thanks to a drop in marketing expenses compared to last year as a result of the timing of these expenses. Obela’s business continues to grow and in the third quarter yielded revenue of around NIS 44 million, reflecting an improvement of 10.4% excluding foreign currency effects. In the first nine months, the company’s sales amounted to NIS 120 million, 5.2% organic growth excluding FX effects.

Strauss Water

Strauss Water posts another successful quarter, with sales amounting to around NIS 184 million – 10.5% growth arising, among other things, from an increase in the number of appliances sold and growth in the customer base. Operating profit rose 24.2% and amounted to NIS 25 million. The company’s business in China has made a fast recovery from the impacts of the lockdown in the first quarter. Third-quarter sales rose 6.8% in local currency and amounted to approximately NIS 142 million. In the first quarter, HSW’s board of directors approved an investment of approximately 375 million yuan (around NIS 190 million) for the construction of a manufacturing facility for the production and assembly of HSW’s products sold in China. Construction of the site began at the end of March 2020 and is expected to end by the second half of 2021. The company estimates that the plant will improve its competitive position, since in-house manufacturing capabilities allow for greater flexibility in developing and manufacturing innovative and unique products, shorter time-to-market and the launch of high-quality products.

[1] The data in this document are based on the company’s non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses and do not include share-based payment, mark-to-market at end-of-period of open positions in the Group in respect of financial derivatives used to hedge commodity prices and all adjustments necessary to delay recognition of gains and losses arising from commodity derivatives until the date when the inventory is sold to outside parties, other income and expenses, net, and the tax effect of excluding those items, unless stated otherwise.

[2]Três Corações (3C) – The Três Corações joint venture in Brazil – a company jointly held by the Group (50%) and by a local holding company, São Miguel Holding e Investimentos S.A. (50%). (Data reflect Strauss Coffee’s share (50%) unless expressly stated otherwise).

 


Non GAAP Figures (1)


Third Quarter

2020

2019

Change

Total Group Sales (NIS mm)

2,174

2,243

-3.1%

Organic Sales Growth excluding FX

3.9%

Gross Profit (NIS mm)

824

887

-7.1%

Gross Margins (%)

37.9%

39.6%

 -170 bps

EBITDA (NIS mm)

339

342

-0.7%

EBITDA Margins (%)

15.6%

15.2%

+40 bps

EBIT (NIS mm)

250

256

-2.3%

EBIT Margins (%)

11.5%

11.4%

+10 bps

Net Income Attributable to the Company’s
 Shareholders (NIS mm)

158

153

4.2%

Net Income Margin Attributable to the
 Company’s Shareholders (%)

7.3%

6.8%

+50 bps

EPS (NIS)

1.37

1.32

4.0%

Operating Cash Flow (NIS mm)

188

191

-1.6%

Capex (NIS mm) (2)

(73)

(64)

14.1%

Net debt (NIS mm)

1,993

2,275

-12.4%

Net debt / annual EBITDA

1.6x

1.8x

(0.2x)

(1) The data in this document are based on the company’s non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses and do not include share-based payment, mark-to-market at end-of-period of open positions in the Group in respect of financial derivatives used to hedge commodity prices and all adjustments necessary to delay recognition of gains and losses arising from commodity derivatives until the date when the inventory is sold to outside parties, other income and expenses, net, and the tax effect of excluding those items, unless stated otherwise.

(2) Investments include the acquisition of fixed assets and investment in intangible assets.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

 

 


Non GAAP Figures (1)


Third Quarter

Sales
(NIS mm)

Sales Growth
vs. Last Year

Organic
Sales

Growth
excluding
FX 

EBIT
(NIS mm)

NIS
Change in
EBIT

% Change
in EBIT 

EBIT
margins

Change in
EBIT
margins vs.
2019


Sales and EBIT by Operating
Segments and Activities


Strauss Israel:

Health & Wellness

676

10.4%

10.4%

86

16

23.5%

12.7%

+130 bps

Fun & Indulgence (2)

277

-3.2%

-3.2%

20

(8)

-28.6%

7.2%

 -260 bps


Total Strauss Israel


953


6.1%


6.1%


106


8


8.6%


11.1%


+20 bps


Strauss Coffee:

Israel Coffee 

175

-10.4%

-10.4%

40

(2)

-6.5%

22.5%

+100 bps

International Coffee (2)

676

-14.4%

5.0%

63

(22)

-25.7%

9.4%

 -140 bps


Total Strauss Coffee


851


-13.6%


1.4%


103


(24)


-19.4%


12.1%


 -80 bps


International Dips & Spreads:

Sabra (50%) (2)

164

-5.4%

-2.4%

19

7

56.6%

11.5%

+450 bps

Obela (50%) (2)

22

10.5%

10.4%

(2)

(0)

-3.6%

NM

NM


Total International Dips & Spreads


186


-3.8%


-1.1%


17


7


65.2%


9.2%


+380 bps


Strauss Water (2)


184


10.5%


10.5%


25


5


24.2%


13.7%


+150 bps


Other 


0


NM


NM


(1)


(2)


-238.7%


NM


NM


Total Group


2,174


-3.1%


3.9%


250


(6)


-2.3%


11.5%


+10 bps

(1)    The data in this document are based on the company’s non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses and do not include share-based payment, mark-to-market at end-of-period of open positions in the Group in respect of financial derivatives used to hedge commodity prices and all adjustments necessary to delay recognition of gains and losses arising from commodity derivatives until the date when the inventory is sold to outside parties, other income and expenses, net, and the tax effect of excluding those items, unless stated otherwise.

(2)    Fun & Indulgence figures include Strauss’s 50% share in the salty snacks business. International Coffee figures include Strauss’s 50% share in the Três Corações joint venture (3C) – Brazil – a company jointly held by the Group (50%) and by the local São Miguel Group (50%). International Dips & Spreads figures reflect Strauss’s 50% share in Sabra and Obela. Strauss Water EBIT figures include Strauss’s share in Haier Strauss Water (HSW) in China (49%).

 

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands. Total figures for International Dips & Spreads were calculated on the basis of the exact figures for Sabra and Obela in NIS thousands.


 

 


Non GAAP Figures (1)


First Nine Months

2020

2019

Change

Total Group Sales (NIS mm)

6,280

6,422

-2.2%

Organic Sales Growth excluding FX

4.5%

Gross Profit (NIS mm)

2,445

2,554

-4.2%

Gross Margins (%)

38.9%

39.8%

 -90 bps

EBITDA (NIS mm)

1,002

1,000

0.2%

EBITDA Margins (%)

16.0%

15.6%

+40 bps

EBIT (NIS mm)

741

752

-1.5%

EBIT Margins (%)

11.8%

11.7%

+10 bps

Net Income Attributable to the Company’s
 Shareholders (NIS mm)

464

446

4.1%

Net Income Margin Attributable to the
 Company’s Shareholders (%)

7.4%

6.9%

+50 bps

EPS (NIS)

4.01

3.86

3.7%

Operating Cash Flow (NIS mm)

541

546

-0.9%

Capex (NIS mm) (2)

(206)

(224)

-8.0%

Net debt (NIS mm)

1,993

2,275

-12.4%

Net debt / annual EBITDA

1.6x

1.8x

(0.2x)

(1)  The data in this document are based on the company’s non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses and do not include share-based payment, mark-to-market at end-of-period of open positions in the Group in respect of financial derivatives used to hedge commodity prices and all adjustments necessary to delay recognition of gains and losses arising from commodity derivatives until the date when the inventory is sold to outside parties, other income and expenses, net, and the tax effect of excluding those items, unless stated otherwise.

(2)  Investments include the acquisition of fixed assets and investment in intangible assets.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

 

 

 


Non GAAP Figures (1)


First Nine Months

Sales
(NIS mm)

Sales
Growth vs.
Last Year

Organic
Sales
Growth
excluding
FX 

EBIT
(NIS mm)

NIS
Change in
EBIT

% Change
in EBIT 

EBIT
margins

Change in
EBIT
margins vs.
2019


Sales and EBIT by Operating
 Segments and Activities


Strauss Israel:

Health & Wellness

1,911

11.6%

11.6%

235

46

24.9%

12.3%

+130 bps

Fun & Indulgence (2)

876

1.0%

1.0%

93

(8)

-8.3%

10.6%

 -110 bps


Total Strauss Israel


2,787


8.1%


8.1%


328


38


13.3%


11.8%


+60 bps


Strauss Coffee:

Israel Coffee 

543

-6.8%

-6.8%

126

(2)

-1.9%

23.1%

+110 bps

International Coffee (2)

1,902

-13.9%

4.8%

157

(53)

-25.3%

8.3%

 -120 bps


Total Strauss Coffee


2,445


-12.4%


2.0%


283


(55)


-16.4%


11.6%


 -50 bps


International Dips & Spreads:

Sabra (50%) (2)

501

-4.1%

-1.1%

59

(10)

-14.8%

11.8%

 -150 bps

Obela (50%) (2)

60

-1.4%

5.2%

(5)

2

27.4%

NM

NM


Total International Dips & Spreads


561


-3.8%


-0.4%


54


(8)


-13.3%


9.6%


 -100 bps


Strauss Water (2)


487


4.1%


4.1%


70


15


27.0%


14.5%


+260 bps


Other 


0


NM


NM


6


(1)


-7.2%


NM


NM


Total Group


6,280


-2.2%


4.5%


741


(11)


-1.5%


11.8%


+10 bps

(1)  The data in this document are based on the company’s non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses and do not include share-based payment, mark-to-market at end-of-period of open positions in the Group in respect of financial derivatives used to hedge commodity prices and all adjustments necessary to delay recognition of gains and losses arising from commodity derivatives until the date when the inventory is sold to outside parties, other income and expenses, net, and the tax effect of excluding those items, unless stated otherwise.

(2)  Fun & Indulgence figures include Strauss’s 50% share in the salty snacks business. International Coffee figures include Strauss’s 50% share in the Três Corações joint venture (3C) – Brazil – a company jointly held by the Group (50%) and by the local São Miguel Group (50%). International Dips & Spreads figures reflect Strauss’s 50% share in Sabra and Obela. Strauss Water EBIT figures include Strauss’s share in Haier Strauss Water (HSW) in China (49%).

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands. Total figures for International Dips & Spreads were calculated on the basis of the exact figures for Sabra and Obela in NIS thousands.

 

 


Condensed financial accounting (GAAP)


Third Quarter

2020

2019

Change

Sales

1,541

1,504

2.4%

Cost of sales excluding impact of commodity hedges 

932

889

4.7%

Adjustments for commodity hedges

-19

3

Cost of sales

913

892

2.3%


Gross profit


628


612


2.6%

% of sales

40.7%

40.7%

Selling and marketing expenses

336

343

-2.3%

General and administrative expenses

97

99

-1.5%


Total expenses


433


442


-2.1%

Share of profit of equity-accounted investees

64

65

-1.6%


Operating profit before other expenses


259


235


10.2%

% of sales

16.8%

15.6%

Other income (expenses), net

0

0


Operating profit after other expenses


259


235


10.4%

Financing expenses, net

-25

-31

-20.7%


Income before taxes on income


234


204


15.1%

Taxes on income

-48

-44

9.7%

Effective tax rate

20.5%

21.5%


Income for the period


186


160


16.6%


Attributable to the Company’s shareholders


168


145


16.0%

Attributable to non-controlling interests

18

15

22.4%


Condensed financial accounting (GAAP)


First Nine Months

2020

2019

Change

Sales

4,419

4,272

3.4%

Cost of sales excluding impact of commodity hedges 

2,623

2,512

4.4%

Adjustments for commodity hedges

-1

3

Cost of sales

2,622

2,515

4.2%


Gross profit


1,797


1,757


2.3%

% of sales

40.7%

41.1%

Selling and marketing expenses

972

979

-0.8%

General and administrative expenses

301

297

1.5%


Total expenses


1,273


1,276


-0.3%

Share of profit of equity-accounted investees

182

218

-16.6%


Operating profit before other expenses


706


699


1.1%

% of sales

16.0%

16.4%

Other income (expenses), net

-3


Operating profit after other expenses


706


696


1.4%

Financing expenses, net

-82

-96

-14.4%


Income before taxes on income


624


600


3.9%

Taxes on income

-121

-131

-7.6%

Effective tax rate

19.4%

21.8%


Income for the period


503


469


7.2%


Attributable to the Company’s shareholders


450


428


5.0%

Attributable to non-controlling interests

53

41

28.9%

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

 


Conference Call

Strauss Group will host an online Zoom meeting in Hebrew on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 14:00 (Israel time) with the participation of company management to review the financial statements of the company for the third quarter of 2020.

 

Meeting URL:


https://straussgroup.zoom.us/j/91354458126?pwd=SDBwS01YM1JNQkswNDJsYzlTMW8rZz09

Meeting ID:

913 5445 8126

Password:

994109

 

Strauss Group will also host a conference call in English on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 16:30 (Israel time) (14:30 UK, 09:30 EST) with the participation of company management to review the financial statements of the company for the third quarter of 2020.

To participate in the conference call in English, please call one of the following numbers as appropriate:

UK: 0-800-917-5108
US: 1-888-642-5032
Israel: 03-918-0650

A recording of the calls will subsequently be available on the company’s website at:   https://ir.strauss-group.com/company-presentations/conference-call-recordings/

The financial statements for the third quarter of 2020 and the presentation that will accompany the calls will be available prior to the conference calls on the following websites:

https://ir.strauss-group.com/company-presentations/quarterly-presentations/

https://ir.strauss-group.com/earning-releases/

 

 


For further information, please contact

:


Daniella Finn


Osnat Golan


Director of Investor Relations


VP Communications, Corporate Brand & Sustainability


Strauss Group Ltd.


Strauss Group Ltd.


972-54-577-2195


972-52-828-8111


972-3-675-2545


972-3-675-2281



[email protected]



[email protected]



Or


Shlomi Sheffer


External Communications Director


Strauss Group Ltd.


972-50-620-8000


972-3-675-6713 



[email protected]

 

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/strauss-group-generates-revenue-of-nis-6-3-billion-in-the-first-nine-months-of-2020–reflecting-4-5-organic-growth-excluding-foreign-currency-effects1-net-profit-in-the-period-was-nis-464-million-an-increase-of-4-1-301175605.html

SOURCE Strauss Group Ltd.

Nel ASA: Received purchase order for a 1.5 MW PEM electrolyser in the US

PR Newswire

OSLO, Norway, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Nel Hydrogen U.S., the U.S. subsidiary of Nel ASA (Nel, OSE:NEL), has received a purchase order for a 1.5 MW PEM electrolyser from a large industrial client in the US.

“We’re happy to see that our megawatt-scale PEM platform continues to be the preferred choice for a number of large industrial players across the world, where 24/7 operations and high reliability is of utmost importance, and look forward to delivering it to a high profile project,” says Tom Skoczylas, Regional Sales Manager in Nel Hydrogen Electrolyser.

The purchase order has a value of approximately USD 2.7 million, and the electrolyser will be installed in 2021.

For further information, please contact:

Jon André Løkke, CEO
Nel ASA, +47 907 44 949

Bjørn Simonsen
VP Investor Relations & Corporate Communication, +47 971 79 821

About Nel ASA |

www.nelhydrogen.com

Nel is a global, dedicated hydrogen company, delivering optimal solutions to produce, store, and distribute hydrogen from renewable energy. We serve industries, energy, and gas companies with leading hydrogen technology. Our roots date back to 1927, and since then, we have had a proud history of development and continuous improvement of hydrogen technologies. Today, our solutions cover the entire value chain: from hydrogen production technologies to hydrogen fueling stations, enabling industries to transition to green hydrogen, and providing fuel cell electric vehicles with the same fast fueling and long range as fossil-fueled vehicles – without the emissions.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/nel-asa/r/nel-asa–received-purchase-order-for-a-1-5-mw-pem-electrolyser-in-the-us,c3239080

The following files are available for download:

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nel-asa-received-purchase-order-for-a-1-5-mw-pem-electrolyser-in-the-us-301175604.html

SOURCE NEL ASA

Embracer Group acquires Coffee Stain North

PR Newswire

STOCKHOLM, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Embracer Group AB (“Embracer”) has today entered into an agreement to acquire the remaining 40 percent of the shares in Coffee Stain North AB (“CSN”), from the nine original founders. CSN is a 22-person strong game studio located in Stockholm, Sweden. The acquisition makes CSN a wholly owned subsidiary of Coffee Stain Holding AB (“Coffee Stain”).

“We’re really happy to get this deal done. We’ve worked with CSN since 2013 and their team is a great addition to the Coffee Stain group. There’s some really exciting stuff being worked on that we can’t wait to share with the world!” says Anton Westbergh, CEO Coffee Stain Studios.

Background and rationale

CSN is a game development studio founded in 2013. The studio, consisting of a smaller team of 22 dedicated developers, is based in Stockholm, Sweden. CSN has been a longstanding partner of Coffee Stain Studios and a partly owned subsidiary since 2018. CSN has collaborated on the phenomena Goat Simulator and developed the original title A Story About My Uncle. CSN currently has a title in production with expected release during 2021, an ongoing collaboration with Coffee Stain Studios since 2017.

With the acquisition, Coffee Stain look forward to continuing the longstanding partnership with the team of CSN.

Purchase Price

The parties have agreed not to disclose the full transaction terms due to commercial reasons. The upfront consideration consists of a mix of cash and Embracer B shares. The earn-out consideration is based on financial targets up until 2028 (8 years).

Completion of the transaction

The transaction is not subject to any further condition and is completed as of November 18, 2020.

Advisers

Ernst & Young AB is providing transaction support and Baker McKenzie is acting as legal counsel to Embracer in the transaction.

For additional information, please contact:

Lars Wingefors, Co-founder and Group CEO Embracer Group AB
Tel: +46 708 47 19 78
E-mail: [email protected]

Anton Westbergh, CEO Coffee Stain Studios.
Tel: +46 763 24 71 28
E-mail: [email protected]

About Embracer Group

Embracer Group is the parent company of businesses developing and publishing PC, console and mobile games for the global games market. Embracer Group has an extensive catalogue of over 190 owned franchises, such as Saints Row, Goat Simulator, Dead Island, Darksiders, Metro, MX vs ATV, Kingdoms of Amalur, TimeSplitters, Satisfactory, Wreckfest, Insurgency and World War Z, amongst many others.

With its head office based in Karlstad, Sweden, Embracer Group has a global presence through its six operative groups: THQ Nordic GmbH, Koch Media GmbH/Deep Silver, Coffee Stain AB, Amplifier Game Invest, Saber Interactive and DECA Games. Embracer Group has 46 internal game development studios and is engaging more than 4,000 employees and contracted employees in more than 40 countries.

Embracer Group’s shares are publicly listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market Stockholm under the ticker EMBRAC B with FNCA Sweden AB as its Certified Adviser; [email protected] +46-8-528 00 399.

Subscribe to press releases and financial information: https://embracer.com/investors/subscription/

For more information, please visit: http://www.embracer.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/embracer-group-ab/r/embracer-group-acquires-coffee-stain-north,c3239064

The following files are available for download:


https://mb.cision.com/Main/15049/3239064/1336504.pdf

Embracer Group acquires Coffee Stain North

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/embracer-group-acquires-coffee-stain-north-301175602.html

SOURCE Embracer Group AB

Phison Introduces Customizable FX SSD Platform for Purpose-Built Storage Solutions

Phison Introduces Customizable FX SSD Platform for Purpose-Built Storage Solutions

PCIe Gen 3×4 enterprise SSD provides competitive performance at best-in-class low power

SAN JOSE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The FX SSD customizable platform is now shipping and is ideal for high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, application servers, and hyperscale data centers. All of which demand the best SSD performance that also offers the industry’s lowest power consumption.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201117006174/en/

Photo courtesy of Phison

Photo courtesy of Phison

The FX SSD platform gains its speed from its new architecture with up to 12 NAND channels. The FX Series is Phison’s first custom enterprise SSD that starts with a base design featuring highly efficient Phison CoXProcessors™. Phison’s proprietary IP paired with ARM Cortex R5 provides an efficient, yet powerful combination to drive success. Phison’s 20 years of flash storage industry experience enables customers to choose the features and requirements that fit their specific one-of-a-kind product needs.

“For Enterprise SSDs, third generation PCIe remains the sweet spot today for enterprise storage companies and cloud service providers that are looking for a combination of competitive performance with low power consumption,” said Jeff Janukowicz, Research Vice President, IDC. “With more than 20 million enterprise PCIe SSD units expected to ship this year, Phison’s new customizable FX SSD platform is in position to help further expand market adoption by providing enterprise customers with a feature set that will accelerate performance and minimize total cost of ownership for demanding applications.”

Phison developed the FX SSD platform with the future in mind. Artificial intelligence applications, high-performance computing, and 5G networks require the absolute best performing storage devices to support their architecture. The FX SSD platform is designed for the most performance demanding PCIe Gen 3×4 platforms in existence now, but with lower power consumption making it an excellent upgrade for the next several years,” said K.S. Pua, CEO of Phison.

For more information about Phison’s Enterprise SSD solutions, visit the website: https://www.phison.com/en/solutions/enterprise

About Phison

Phison Electronics Corp. (TPEX:8299) is a global leader in NAND Flash controller IC and storage solutions. Phison provides a variety of services from controller design, system integration, IP licensing to total turnkey solutions, covering applications across SSD (PCIe/SATA/PATA), eMMC, UFS, SD and USB interfaces, reaching out to consumer, industrial and enterprise markets. As an active member of industry associations, Phison is on the Board of Directors for SDA, ONFI, UFSA and a contributor for JEDEC, PCI-SIG, MIPI, NVMe and IEEE-SA.

Media Relations Contact:

Loreta Tarozaite

[email protected]

Enterprise SSD Solutions Contact:

Andy Higginbotham

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States North America California

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Technology Mobile/Wireless Other Technology Software Networks Internet Hardware Data Management Consumer Electronics

MEDIA:

Photo
Photo
Photo courtesy of Phison
Logo
Logo

Embracer Group acquires Quantic Lab SRL

PR Newswire

STOCKHOLM, Nov. 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Embracer Group AB (“Embracer”) has today entered into an agreement to acquire 95 percent of the shares in Quantic Lab SRL[1] (“Quantic Lab”). Quantic Lab, based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, is a software outsourcing company specialized in Quality Assurance (“QA”) for gaming and applications. The purchase price of MEUR 4.75 is paid in cash and represent a corresponding Enterprise Value of MEUR 5 for 100 percent ownership on a cash and debt free basis.

“The gradual expansion of Quantic Lab under Stefan Seicarescu’s independent leadership over the past decade has been exciting to follow. As quality assurance is becoming ever more important for all industry participants, Quantic Lab has a key role to play. It will be business as usual in Romania, as Embracer will continue to support Stefan in his venture to take Quantic Lab to the next level, while continuing to support its internal and external partners” says Lars Wingefors, Founder and Group CEO of Embracer Group.

Background and rationale

Quantic Lab was founded in 2006 by Stefan Seicarescu, current CEO, and has since grown, from being a start-up with a small team of 12 persons, into a leading QA company with more than 60 active clients and 390 employees in 3 office locations in Romania.

Quantic Lab provides QA services for gaming platforms ranging from consoles to mobile, with testing services for the full game production cycle, including among others localization tests, gameplay testing, and UX/UI experience testing. Quantic Lab has extensive experience of working with leading publishers and developers within the gaming industry, providing QA services both in shorter critical project phases and as longstanding partnership from pre-production throughout release with post-release quality testing.

Quantic Lab is an independent business with many international clients but has also historically collaborated with several companies within the Embracer Group, primarily THQ Nordic.

“It brings me great joy that Quantic Lab joins Embracer family today. I founded the company on a set of values that are part of Embracer’s vision as well: passion, integrity, quality, flexibility and continuous improvement. This is an important milestone in our 15 years long journey bringing up new possibilities in our continuous evolution. We have known Lars for more than nine years, and we have been successfully working with Embracer’s companies ever since. We will remain an independent service provider, while using this opportunity to increase our strength on the QA market and continuing our great collaboration with historic partners worldwide” says Stefan Seicarescu, CEO Quantic Lab.

Quantic Lab will continue to operate as an independent gaming QA and software outsourcing company directly under Embracer, with Stefan Seicarescu continuing in his position as CEO of the company. Quantic Lab complements Embracer’s strategy to “partner within the industry”, including work-for-hire and Partner Publishing.

For the calendar year 2020 Quantic Lab estimates a net revenue of MEUR ca 5.7 and an operating EBIT of approximately MEUR 1.0.

Lars Wingefors AB and Erik Stenberg represent the two majority owners of Nordic Games Group AB (`’NGG”). NGG and Stefan Seicarescu owns 95 percent and 5 percent respectively in Quantic Lab. Embracer Group AB acquires 95 percent of Quantic Lab SRL from NGG[1] for a purchase price of MEUR 4.75. The consideration is paid in cash and is equivalent to MEUR 5 for 100 percent ownership on a cash and debt free basis.

The transaction has been reviewed and approved by the independent Directors of the Board in order to ensure a nonpartisan review and decision of the acquisition.

Completion of the transaction

The transaction is not subject to any further condition and is completed as of November 18, 2020.

[1]

Embracer acquires 100 percent of Nordic Games Stockholm AB, which holds 95 percent of Quantic Lab. 

Advisers

Ernst & Young AB is providing transaction support and Baker McKenzie is acting as legal counsel to Embracer in the transaction.

For additional information, please contact:
Lars Wingefors
Co-founder and Group CEO Embracer Group AB
Tel: +46 708 47 19 78
E-mail: [email protected]

Stefan Seicarescu
CEO Quantic Lab SRL
Tel: +40 742 877 735
E-mail: [email protected]   

About Embracer Group

Embracer Group is the parent company of businesses developing and publishing PC, console and mobile games for the global games market. Embracer Group has an extensive catalogue of over 190 owned franchises, such as Saints Row, Goat Simulator, Dead Island, Darksiders, Metro, MX vs ATV, Kingdoms of Amalur, TimeSplitters, Satisfactory, Wreckfest, Insurgency and World War Z, amongst many others.

With its head office based in Karlstad, Sweden, Embracer Group has a global presence through its six operative groups: THQ Nordic GmbH, Koch Media GmbH/Deep Silver, Coffee Stain AB, Amplifier Game Invest, Saber Interactive and DECA Games. Embracer Group has 46 internal game development studios and is engaging more than 4,000 employees and contracted employees in more than 40 countries.

Embracer Group’s shares are publicly listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market Stockholm under the ticker EMBRAC B with FNCA Sweden AB as its Certified Adviser; [email protected] +46-8-528 00 399.

Subscribe to press releases and financial information: https://embracer.com/investors/subscription/ For more information, please visit: http://www.embracer.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/embracer-group-ab/r/embracer-group-acquires-quantic-lab-srl,c3239062

The following files are available for download:


https://mb.cision.com/Main/15049/3239062/1336501.pdf

Embracer Group acquires Quantic Lab SRL

 

 

Cision View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/embracer-group-acquires-quantic-lab-srl-301175596.html

SOURCE Embracer Group AB

Rilzabrutinib granted FDA Fast Track Designation for treatment of immune thrombocytopenia

                                                                                                                                                           

Rilzabrutinib granted FDA Fast Track Designation for treatment of immune thrombocytopenia

  • Phase 3 trial initiated to evaluate rilzabrutinib, the potential first BTK inhibitor (Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor) for the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia
  • Rilzabrutinib previously granted FDA orphan drug designation


PARIS – November 18, 2020 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track Designation (FTD) to the oral investigational Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, rilzabrutinib, which has the potential to be the first BTK inhibitor for the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). In addition, following positive Phase 1/2 study results, a Phase 3 study evaluating rilzabrutinib for ITP has been initiated. Rilzabrutinib received orphan drug designation from the FDA for the treatment of ITP in October 2018.

“By awarding Fast Track Designation to rilzabrutinib, an investigational candidate for the treatment of ITP, the FDA has recognized rilzabrutinib’s potential to meaningfully improve outcomes for patients with this debilitating disease. This is an excellent acknowledgement as we initiate our Phase 3 study,” said Dolca Thomas, Chief Medical Officer of Principia, a Sanofi company. “FTD is designed to facilitate the development and expedite the review of investigational treatments that demonstrate the potential to address unmet medical needs in serious or life-threatening conditions.”

About Fast Track Designation

FTD is an FDA process designed to facilitate the development, and expedite the review of, medicines to treat serious conditions and fill unmet medical need. The FDA created this process to help deliver important new drugs to patients earlier, and it covers a broad range of serious illnesses. Fast Track designation can lead to an Accelerated Approval and Priority Review if certain criteria are met.

About Immune thrombocytopenia

ITP is characterized by immune-mediated platelet destruction and impairment of platelet production, which leads to downstream thrombocytopenia, a predisposition to bleeding, and adverse impact on patient quality of life. There remains an unmet medical need in ITP to achieve rapid and durable remission rates for patients who have relapsed or are refractory to corticosteroids.

About Rilzabrutinib

Rilzabrutinib is an oral, reversible covalent, Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor being investigated for the treatment of immune mediated diseases.  BTK is involved in innate and adaptive immune responses and is a signalling molecule in immune mediated diseases. Rilzabrutinib data demonstrate an ability to block inflammatory immune cells, eliminate autoantibody destructive signalling, and prevent new autoantibody production without depleting B cells. Rilzabrutinib has the potential to target the underlying disease pathogenesis and has not been shown to alter platelet aggregation. The clinical significance of these mechanisms is currently under investigation and its safety and efficacy have not been reviewed by any regulatory authority.

Editor’s Note: Rilzabrutinib is being investigated in a Phase 3 trial for pemphigus, an immune mediated disease characterized by blisters in mucous membranes and skin.  Additionally, a Phase 2 study in the autoimmune condition IgG4 Disease has also been initiated.

 

About Sanofi

 

Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. We are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. We prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. We stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions.

 

With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe.

 

Sanofi, Empowering Life

 

 

Media Relations Contact
Sally Bain
Tel.: +1 781 264 1091
[email protected]

 

Investor Relations Contacts Paris
Eva Schaefer-Jansen
Arnaud Delepine
Yvonne Naughton

 

Investor Relations Contacts North America
Felix Lauscher
Fara Berkowitz
Suzanne Greco

 

IR main line:
Tel.: +33 (0)1 53 77 45 45
[email protected]

 

https://www.sanofi.com/en/investors/contact


Sanofi Forward-Looking Statements


This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements include projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations, services, product development and potential, and statements regarding future performance. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans” and similar expressions. Although Sanofi’s management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking information and statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Sanofi, that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, future clinical data and analysis, including post marketing, decisions by regulatory authorities, such as the FDA or the EMA, regarding whether and when to approve any drug, device or biological application that may be filed for any such product candidates as well as their decisions regarding labelling and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of such product candidates, the fact that product candidates if approved may not be commercially successful, the future approval and commercial success of therapeutic alternatives, Sanofi’s ability to benefit from external growth opportunities, to complete related transactions and/or obtain regulatory clearances, risks associated with intellectual property and any related pending or future litigation and the  ultimate outcome of such litigation,  trends in exchange rates and prevailing interest rates, volatile economic and market conditions,  cost containment initiatives and subsequent changes thereto, and  the impact that COVID-19 will have on us, our customers, suppliers, vendors, and other business partners, and the financial condition of any one of them, as well as on our employees and on the global economy as a whole.  Any material effect of COVID-19 on any of the foregoing could also adversely impact us. This situation is changing rapidly and additional impacts may arise of which we are not currently aware and may exacerbate other previously identified risks. The risks and uncertainties also include the uncertainties discussed or identified in the public filings with the SEC and the AMF made by Sanofi, including those listed under “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Sanofi’s annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2019. Other than as required by applicable law, Sanofi does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements.

Attachment