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Renovaro Regains Compliance with NASDAQ Listing Requirement

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Renovaro Inc. (NASDAQ: RENB), a pioneer in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics powered by artificial intelligence, today announced that it has received a notice from the Listing Qualifications Department of The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) notifying the Company that it has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement under Nasdaq Listing Rule, 5550(a)(2). The Company’s security will continue to be listed and traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market and this matter is now closed.

Renovaro previously received a notification letter from the Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Department on September 12, 2024, notifying the Company that, over the previous 30 consecutive business days, the closing bid price of the Company’s common stock had been below the minimum of $1.00 per share required for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2).

About Renovaro

Renovaro https://renovarogroup.com/ aims to accelerate precision and personalized medicine for longevity powered by mutually reinforcing AI and biotechnology platforms for early diagnosis, better-targeted treatments, and drug discovery. Renovaro Inc. includes RenovaroBio with its advanced cell-gene immunotherapy company and Renovaro Cube.

Renovaro Cube has developed an award-winning AI platform that is committed to the early detection of cancer and its recurrence and monitoring subsequent treatments. Renovaro Cube intervenes at a stage where potential therapy can be most effective. Renovaro Cube is a molecular data science company with a background in FinTech and a 12-year history. It brings together proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) technology, multi-omics, multi-modal data, and the expertise of a carefully selected multidisciplinary team to radically accelerate precision medicine and enable breakthrough changes in disease agnostic decision support.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical in nature are forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions based on current information and expectations and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the success or efficacy of our pipeline, platform and fundraising. All statements other than historical facts are forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “aims,” “intends,” “potential,” or similar expressions. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in any of such statements due to various uncertainties, including as set forth in Renovaro’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and Renovaro Inc. undertakes no obligation to revise or update this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

Investor Relations

Chris Tyson
Executive Vice President
MZ Group – MZ North America
949-491-8235
[email protected]
www.mzgroup.us

For media inquiries, please contact: 

karen@Renovaro Cube.com and [email protected]



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Vertex Announces U.S. FDA Approval for TRIKAFTA (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor) to Include Additional Non-F508del TRIKAFTA-Responsive Variants

Vertex Announces U.S. FDA Approval for TRIKAFTA (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor) to Include Additional Non-F508del TRIKAFTA-Responsive Variants

– Approximately 300 more people with cystic fibrosis in the U.S. are now eligible for a medicine that treats the underlying cause of their disease for the first time –

BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq: VRTX) today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the expanded use of TRIKAFTA® (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor) for the treatment of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) ages 2 and older who have at least one F508del mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene or a mutation that is responsive to TRIKAFTA based on clinical and/or in vitro data. In addition, safety information on liver injury and liver failure has been updated from warnings and precautions to a boxed warning. With this approval, 94 additional non-F508delCFTR mutations have been added to the TRIKAFTA label, and approximately 300 additional people with CF in the U.S. are now eligible for a medicine to treat the underlying cause of their disease for the first time.

“Since its first approval in 2019, TRIKAFTA has had a transformative impact on tens of thousands of people living with cystic fibrosis,” said Carmen Bozic, M.D., Executive Vice President, Global Medicines Development and Medical Affairs, and Chief Medical Officer, Vertex. “With this approval, even more patients may be able to benefit from a medicine that treats the underlying cause of their disease, and we look forward to continuing the work to extend the approvals and availability of our medicines to patients around the world.”

For more information on TRIKAFTA, patient assistance programs or to find additional eligibility details, visit TRIKAFTA.com, VertexGPS.com or vertextreatments.com.

About Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a rare, life-shortening genetic disease affecting more than 92,000 people globally. CF is a progressive, multi-organ disease that affects the lungs, liver, pancreas, GI tract, sinuses, sweat glands and reproductive tract. CF is caused by a defective and/or missing CFTR protein resulting from certain mutations in the CFTR gene. Children must inherit two defective CFTR genes — one from each parent — to have CF, and these mutations can be identified by a genetic test. While there are many different types of CFTR mutations that can cause the disease, the vast majority of people with CF have at least one F508del mutation. CFTR mutations lead to CF by causing CFTR protein to be defective or by leading to a shortage or absence of CFTR protein at the cell surface. The defective function and/or absence of CFTR protein results in poor flow of salt and water into and out of the cells in a number of organs. In the lungs, this leads to the buildup of abnormally thick, sticky mucus, chronic lung infections and progressive lung damage that eventually leads to death for many patients. The median age of death is in the 30s, but with treatment, projected survival is improving.

Today Vertex CF medicines are treating over 68,000 people with CF across more than 60 countries on six continents. This represents 2/3 of the diagnosed people with CF eligible for CFTR modulator therapy.

About TRIKAFTA (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor)

In people with certain types of mutations in the CFTR gene, the CFTR protein is not processed or folded normally within the cell, and this can prevent the CFTR protein from reaching the cell surface and functioning properly. TRIKAFTA (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor) is an oral medicine designed to increase the quantity and function of the CFTR protein at the cell surface. Elexacaftor and tezacaftor work together to increase the amount of mature protein at the cell surface. Ivacaftor, which is known as a CFTR potentiator, is designed to facilitate the ability of CFTR proteins to transport salt and water across the cell membrane. The combined actions of elexacaftor, tezacaftor and ivacaftor help hydrate and clear mucus from the airways.

TRIKAFTA (elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor and ivacaftor) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in patients aged 2 years and older who have at least one copy of the F508del mutation or a mutation in the CFTR gene that is responsive based on clinical and/or in vitro data. Patients should talk to their doctor to learn if they have an indicated CF gene mutation. It is not known if TRIKAFTA is safe and effective in children under 2 years of age.

The following 94 mutations have been added to the TRIKAFTA® label for the first time:

1507_1515del9, 2183A→G, A1067P, A107G, A309D, A62P, C491R, D1445N, D565G, D993Y, E116Q, E292K, F1107L, F200I, F587I, G1047R, G1123R, G1247R, G27E, G424S, G480S, G551A, G970S, H620P, H620Q, H939R;H949L, I105N, I125T, I148N, I331N, I506L, I556V, K162E, K464E, L1011S, L137P, L333F, L333H, L441P, L619S, M1137V, M150K, N1088D, N1303I, N186K, N187K, N418S, P140S, P499A, P750L, Q1313K, Q372H, Q493R, Q552P, R1048G, R117C;G576A;R668C, R297Q, R31C, R516S, R555G, R709Q, R75L, S1045Y, S108F, S1118F, S1235R, S549I, T1086I, T1246I, T1299I, T351I, V392G, V603F, Y301C, 2789+5G→A, 3272-26A→G, 3849+10kbC→T, N1303K, 711+3A→G, E831X, 5T;TG12, 5T;TG13, 296+28A→G, 621+3A→G, 1898+3A→G, 2789+ 2insA, 3850-3T→G, 3600G→A, 3849+4A→G, 3849+40A→G, 4005+2T→C, 1341G→A, 3041-15T→G, 2752-26A→G

TRIKAFTA U.S. INDICATIONS

TRIKAFTA is indicated for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in patients aged 2 years and older who have at least one F508del mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene or a mutation in the CFTR gene that is responsive based on clinical and/or in vitro data.

If the patient’s genotype is unknown, an FDA-cleared CF mutation test should be used to confirm the presence of at least one indicated mutation.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

BOXED WARNING: DRUG-INDUCED LIVER INJURY AND LIVER FAILURE

TRIKAFTA can cause serious and potentially fatal drug-induced liver injury. Cases of liver failure leading to transplantation and death have been reported in patients with and without a history of liver disease taking TRIKAFTA, in both clinical trials and the post-marketing setting. Liver injury has been reported within the first month of therapy and up to 15 months following initiation of TRIKAFTA.

Assess liver function tests (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin) in all patients prior to initiating TRIKAFTA, then every month during the first 6 months of treatment, every 3 months for the next 12 months, and at least annually thereafter. Consider more frequent monitoring for patients with a history of liver disease or liver function test (LFT) elevations at baseline.

Interrupt TRIKAFTA for significant elevations in LFTs or in the event of signs or symptoms of liver injury. Consider referral to a hepatologist. Follow patients closely with clinical and laboratory monitoring until abnormalities resolve. If resolved, resume treatment only if the benefit is expected to outweigh the risk. Closer monitoring is advised after resuming TRIKAFTA.

TRIKAFTA should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C). TRIKAFTA is not recommended in patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B). If used, use with caution at a reduced dosage and monitor patients closely.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Drug-Induced Liver Injury and Liver Failure

  • TRIKAFTA can cause serious and potentially fatal drug-induced liver injury. Liver failure leading to transplantation and death have been reported in patients with and without a history of liver disease taking TRIKAFTA. Liver injury has been reported within the first month of therapy and up to 15 months following initiation of TRIKAFTA

  • Assess LFTs (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin) in all patients prior to initiating TRIKAFTA, then every month during the first 6 months of treatment, every 3 months for the next 12 months, at least annually thereafter

  • Interrupt TRIKAFTA in the event of signs or symptoms of liver injury, which may include:

    • Significant elevations in LFTs (e.g. ALT or AST >5x the upper limit of normal (ULN) or ALT or AST >3x ULN with bilirubin >2x ULN)

    • Clinical symptoms suggestive of liver injury (e.g., jaundice, right upper quadrant pain, nausea, vomiting, altered mental status, ascites)

  • Consider referral to a hepatologist and follow patients closely with clinical and laboratory monitoring until the abnormalities resolve. If resolved, and if benefit is expected to outweigh risk, resume TRIKAFTA with close monitoring

  • TRIKAFTA should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment . TRIKAFTA is not recommended in patients with moderate hepatic impairment and should only be considered when there is a clear medical need, and benefit outweighs risk. If used, use with caution at a reduced dosageand monitor patients closely

Hypersensitivity Reactions, Including Anaphylaxis

  • Hypersensitivity reactions, including cases of angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported in the post-marketing setting. If signs or symptoms of serious hypersensitivity reactions develop during treatment, discontinue TRIKAFTA and institute appropriate therapy. Consider benefits and risks for the individual patient to determine whether to resume treatment with TRIKAFTA

Concomitant Use With CYP3A Inducers

  • Exposure to ivacaftor is significantly decreased and exposure to elexacaftor and tezacaftor are expected to decrease by concomitant use of strong CYP3A inducers, which may reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of TRIKAFTA. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A inducers is not recommended

Concomitant Use With CYP3A Inhibitors

  • Exposure to elexacaftor, tezacaftor, and ivacaftor are increased when used concomitantly with strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors. The dose of TRIKAFTA should be reduced when used concomitantly with moderate or strong CYP3A inhibitors

Cataracts

  • Non-congenital lens opacities have been reported in pediatric patients treated with ivacaftor-containing regimens. Baseline and follow-up ophthalmological examinations are recommended in pediatric patients initiating treatment with TRIKAFTA

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Serious Adverse Reactions

  • Serious adverse reactions that occurred more frequently in patients treated with TRIKAFTA compared to placebo were rash (1% vs <1%) and influenza (1% vs 0%)

Most Common Adverse Reactions

  • The most common adverse reactions occurring in ≥5% of patients treated with TRIKAFTA and higher than placebo by ≥1% were headache, upper respiratory tract infection, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash, alanine aminotransferase increased, nasal congestion, blood creatine phosphokinase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, rhinorrhea, rhinitis, influenza, sinusitis, and blood bilirubin increased and constipation

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Pediatric Use

  • The safety and effectiveness of TRIKAFTA in patients with CF younger than 2 years of age have not been established

Please click here to see the full U.S. Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING for TRIKAFTA.

About Vertex

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has approved medicines that treat the underlying causes of multiple chronic, life-shortening genetic diseases — cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia — and continues to advance clinical and research programs in these diseases. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including acute and neuropathic pain, APOL1-mediated kidney disease, IgA nephropathy, primary membranous nephropathy, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, type 1 diabetes and myotonic dystrophy type 1.

Vertex was founded in 1989 and has its global headquarters in Boston, with international headquarters in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry’s top places to work, including 15 consecutive years on Science magazine’s Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex’s history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, statements made by Carmen Bozic, M.D., in this press release, statements regarding the eligible patient population for TRIKAFTA, expectations for access to TRIKAFTA for eligible patients, and statements regarding the potential benefits of TRIKAFTA. While Vertex believes the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are accurate, these forward-looking statements represent the company’s beliefs only as of the date of this press release and there are a number of factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. Those risks and uncertainties include risks listed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Vertex’s annual report and in subsequent filings filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available through the company’s website at www.vrtx.com and www.sec.gov. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Vertex disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in this press release as new information becomes available.

(VRTX-GEN)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

Investors:

[email protected]

Susie Lisa, CFA: +1 617-341-6108

or

Manisha Pai: +1 617-961-1899

Media:

[email protected]

or

U.S.: 617-341-6992

Heather Nichols: +1 617-839-3607

or

International: +44 20 3204 5275

KEYWORDS: Massachusetts Europe United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: FDA Health Genetics Managed Care Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

MEDIA:

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LiveOne (NASDAQ: LVO) Regains Compliance with Nasdaq Listing Requirements

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LiveOne (Nasdaq: LVO), an award-winning, creator-first, music, entertainment, and technology platform, announced today that the company received a formal written notice from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) that LiveOne has regained compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum bid price requirement set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) and that this matter is now closed. LiveOne’s shares of common stock will continue to trade on Nasdaq under the symbol “LVO”.

This confirmation follows the Company’s continued efforts to improve its balance sheet by enhancing shareholder value.

About LiveOne

Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, LiveOne (Nasdaq: LVO) is an award-winning, creator-first, music, entertainment, and technology platform focused on delivering premium experiences and content worldwide through memberships and live and virtual events. LiveOne’s subsidiaries include Slacker Radio, PodcastOne (Nasdaq: PODC), PPVOne, CPS, LiveXLive, DayOne Music Publishing, Drumify and Splitmind. LiveOne is available in Tesla vehicles and on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Spotify, Samsung, Amazon Fire, Android TV, and through STIRR’s OTT applications. For more information, visit liveone.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Twitter at @liveone. For more investor information, please visit ir.liveone.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are “forward-looking statements,” which may often, but not always, be identified by the use of such words as “may,” “might,” “will,” “will likely result,” “would,” “should,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “continue,” “target” or the negative of such terms or other similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including: LiveOne’s reliance on its largest OEM customer for a substantial percentage of its revenue; LiveOne’s ability to consummate any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, special dividend, merger, distribution or transaction, the timing of the consummation of any such proposed event, including the risks that a condition to the consummation of any such event would not be satisfied within the expected timeframe or at all, or that the consummation of any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, merger, special dividend, distribution or transaction will not occur or whether any such event will enhance shareholder value; LiveOne’s ability to continue as a going concern; LiveOne’s ability to attract, maintain and increase the number of its users and paid members; LiveOne identifying, acquiring, securing and developing content; LiveOne’s intent to repurchase shares of its and/or PodcastOne’s common stock from time to time under LiveOne’s announced stock repurchase program and the timing, price, and quantity of repurchases, if any, under the program; LiveOne’s ability to maintain compliance with certain financial and other covenants; LiveOne successfully implementing its growth strategy, including relating to its technology platforms and applications; management’s relationships with industry stakeholders; LiveOne’s ability to extend and/or refinance its indebtedness and/or repay its indebtedness when due; uncertain and unfavorable outcomes in legal proceedings and/or LiveOne’s ability to pay any amounts due in connection with any such legal proceedings; changes in economic conditions; competition; risks and uncertainties applicable to the businesses of LiveOne’s subsidiaries; and other risks, uncertainties and factors including, but not limited to, those described in LiveOne’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on July 1, 2024, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, filed with the November 14, 2024, and in LiveOne’s other filings and submissions with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and LiveOne disclaims any obligation to update these statements, except as may be required by law. LiveOne intends that all forward-looking statements be subject to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

LiveOne IR Contact:

Liviakis Financial Communications, Inc.
(415) 389-4670
[email protected]

LiveOne Press Contact:

LiveOne
[email protected]

Follow LiveOne on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Twitter at @liveone.



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Eaton Vance Declares Early Monthly Distribution for Eaton Vance Floating-Rate Income Trust

Eaton Vance Declares Early Monthly Distribution for Eaton Vance Floating-Rate Income Trust

BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Eaton Vance Floating-Rate Income Trust (the “Fund”) announced a distribution today as detailed below.

Declaration – 12/20/2024 Ex-Date – 12/30/2024 Record – 12/30/2024 Payable – 1/15/2025
 

Fund

Ticker

Monthly Distribution

Change From Prior Distribution

Closing Market Price – 12/19/24

Distribution Rate at Market Price

Eaton Vance Floating-Rate Income Trust

EFT

$0.1030

–

$13.37

9.24%

The declaration, record and payment dates of the regular January distribution has been accelerated to allow the Fund to meet its 2024 distribution requirements for federal excise tax purposes. The Fund expects to declare its next regular monthly distribution at the beginning of February 2025 for payment in February 2025.

The Fund intends to make regular monthly cash distributions to its common shareholders (stated in terms of a fixed cents per common share dividend distribution rate). The Fund’s ability to maintain its declared distribution amount will depend on a number of factors, including the amount and stability of investment income earned by the Fund; the performance of the Fund’s investments; the Fund’s expenses, including the cost of financing for Funds that employ leverage; underlying market conditions; realized and projected returns; and other factors. There can be no assurance that an unanticipated change in market conditions or other factors will not result in a change in a Fund’s distributions at a future time.

Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about the Fund’s investment performance from the amount of any monthly distribution. The Fund’s distributions may be comprised of amounts characterized for U.S. federal income tax purposes as tax-exempt income, qualified and non-qualified ordinary dividends, capital gains and non-dividend distributions, also known as return of capital. A Fund may distribute more than its net investment income and net realized capital gains and, therefore, a distribution may include a return of capital. With each distribution, a Fund will issue a notice to its common shareholders containing information about the amount and sources of the distribution and other related information. Further information regarding Fund distributions will also be available prior to any applicable payment date at funds.eatonvance.com. The final determination of tax characteristics of each Fund’s distributions will occur after the end of the year, at which time it will be reported to the shareholders. Shareholders should not assume that the source of any distribution from a Fund is net income or profit, and the Fund’s distributions should not be used as a measure of performance or confused with “yield” or “income.”

Eaton Vance applies in-depth fundamental analysis to the active management of equity, income, alternative and multi-asset strategies. Eaton Vance’s investment teams follow time-tested principles of investing that emphasize ongoing risk management, tax management (where applicable) and the pursuit of consistent long-term returns. The firm’s investment capabilities encompass the global capital markets. Eaton Vance is a part of Morgan Stanley Investment Management, the asset management division of Morgan Stanley.

Shares of closed-end funds often trade at a discount from their net asset value. The market price of Fund shares may vary from net asset value based on factors affecting the supply and demand for shares, such as Fund distribution rates relative to similar investments, investors’ expectations for future distribution changes, the clarity of the Fund’s investment strategy and future return expectations, and investors’ confidence in the underlying markets in which the Fund invests. Fund shares are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal invested. No Fund is a complete investment program and you may lose money investing in a Fund. An investment in a Fund may not be appropriate for all investors. Before investing, prospective investors should consider carefully the Fund’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses.

Investor Contact: (800) 262-1122

KEYWORDS: Massachusetts United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Professional Services Finance

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Illinois Commerce Commission Approves ComEd’s Refiled Multi-Year Grid Plan to Advance Region’s Economic, Climate and Equity Goals

Illinois Commerce Commission Approves ComEd’s Refiled Multi-Year Grid Plan to Advance Region’s Economic, Climate and Equity Goals

Refiled plan meets all requirements and aligns with State’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) yesterday approved, with modifications, ComEd’s refiled grid plan presented in March of 2024 after changes to the original plan were requested by the ICC in December of 2023. It prioritizes improvements in system reliability to support the growth of renewable energy and continued economic development, as well as other goals of the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which puts Illinois on a path to a fully decarbonized energy sector by 2045.

“We are grateful for the collaboration with the ICC and with other stakeholders whose input helps us align more closely with the goals of CEJA while also supporting continued regional economic development,” said Gil Quiniones, ComEd President and CEO. “ComEd is focused on delivering value and achieving the goals of our approved plan while balancing the need for customer affordability.”

ComEd’s refiled grid plan includes investments and programs through 2027. The company’s cost-effectiveness analysis assessed the value of the revised plan benefits at more than $7 billion compared to $4.4 billion in investments; plus, additional customer and community benefits, including cyber security protection, safety, and health improvements from improved air quality while contributing to economic development throughout northern Illinois. The order also recognizes the potential for additional investment to connect new businesses to the grid, which ComEd continues to see increasingly strong interest in, and allows for full recovery of all prudent and reasonable costs associated with these investments.

Continued Focus on Affordability

The approved grid plan will result in an average increase of $1.84 to monthly residential bills each year, beginning in 2025 through 2027. Total average monthly bills for ComEd residential customers are currently about $100.

ComEd’s average residential rate of electricity as of July 2024 is 22% below the average residential rate charged in the nation’s top 10 largest metropolitan areas, according to the most recent data from the Edison Electric Institute (EEI). ComEd’s average commercial rate and average industrial rate as of July 2024 was, respectively, 21% and 38% below the average in the top 20 large metropolitan areas.

Building upon its longstanding commitment to keep bills affordable for all customers, ComEd presented to the ICC earlier this year a proposal for a Low-Income Discount (LID) program. ComEd anticipates that the ICC will issue its Final Order on the proposed LID program in the first quarter of 2025; pending ICC approval, the program will be implemented in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Critical Infrastructure Investments.

ComEd’s grid modernization investments are critical to ensure the grid’s reliability and resiliency in the face of more severe weather caused by climate change and as more solar and other distributed energy resources (DER) are added to the ComEd system. ComEd’s investments continue to prioritize work to sustain improvements in system reliability and the integration of solar, wind and battery energy storage. It is also expanding development of distributed energy resources management systems (DERMS), which requires advanced communications capabilities to monitor, control, forecast and integrate DERS on the ComEd system. DERMS is a cost-effective alternative to traditional upgrades and especially beneficial as more DERs are connected on constrained circuits where it’s necessary to guard against adverse system impacts.

In recognition of ComEd’s successful efforts to achieve best-in-class reliability, PA Consulting, the global innovation, and transformation consultancy, last month presented ComEd the 2024 ReliabilityOne® award for Outstanding Reliability Performance in the Midwest Metropolitan Service Area. ComEd also received the Climate Action Leader award for advancing the planning and operations to transition into a cleaner future grid.

​​ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ: EXC), a Fortune 200 energy company serving more than 10.5 million electricity and natural gas customers – the largest number of customers in the U.S. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. For more information visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.​

ComEd: 312-394-3500

KEYWORDS: Illinois United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Environment Other Energy Utilities Professional Services Sustainability Alternative Energy Green Technology Energy DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)

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NBT Bancorp Inc. Receives Regulatory Approval, Evans Bancorp, Inc. Shareholders Approve Merger

NORWICH, N.Y. and WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y., Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NBT Bancorp Inc. (“NBT”) (NASDAQ: NBTB) announced that it has received regulatory approval to complete the proposed merger (the “Merger”) of Evans Bancorp, Inc. (“Evans”) (NYSE American: EVBN) with and into NBT and Evans Bank, N.A. (“Evans Bank”) with and into NBT Bank, N.A. (“NBT Bank”). The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency approved the merger of Evans Bank with and into NBT Bank, and NBT received a waiver from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for any application with respect to the merger of Evans with and into NBT.

On December 20, 2024, the shareholders of Evans voted to approve the Merger. Evans reported over 75% of the issued and outstanding shares of Evans were represented at a special shareholder meeting and over 96% of the votes cast were voted to approve the Merger.

“We are pleased that we have received the necessary regulatory approvals to proceed with the Merger and that Evans shareholders have demonstrated strong support for the partnership that will bring NBT and Evans together,” said NBT President and CEO Scott A. Kingsley. “Team members from NBT and Evans have been working closely to plan for a smooth transition in the second quarter of 2025, and we look forward to continuing to build on the relationships Evans has established with their customers, communities and shareholders as we extend NBT’s footprint in Upstate New York into the attractive Buffalo and Rochester markets.”

“These approvals are important milestones in the merger process, and we are grateful that Evans shareholders have so positively endorsed this strategic partnership,” said David J. Nasca, Evans President and Chief Executive Officer. “Joining the NBT family will benefit our customers and communities as they will continue to be served by a combined organization upholds our shared culture and values, maintains our relationship-focused approach, and offers an elevated suite of financial products and services.”

On September 9, 2024, NBT, Evans, NBT Bank and Evans Bank entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger pursuant to which Evans will merge with and into NBT in an all-stock transaction, and immediately after, Evans Bank will merge with and into NBT Bank. This Merger will bring together two highly respected banking companies and extend NBT’s growing footprint into Western New York. The Merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025 in conjunction with the system conversion, pending customary closing conditions.

About NBT Bancorp Inc.

NBT Bancorp Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Norwich, NY, with total assets of $13.84 billion at September 30, 2024. NBT primarily operates through NBT Bank, N.A., a full-service community bank, and through two financial services companies. NBT Bank, N.A. has 155 banking locations in New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut. EPIC Retirement Plan Services, based in Rochester, NY, is a national benefits administration firm. NBT Insurance Agency, LLC, based in Norwich, NY, is a full-service insurance agency. More information about NBT and its divisions is available online at: www.nbtbancorp.com, www.nbtbank.com, www.epicrps.com and https://www.nbtbank.com/Insurance.

About Evans Bancorp, Inc.

Evans is a financial holding company headquartered in Williamsville, NY, with total assets of $2.28 billion at September 30, 2024. Its primary subsidiary, Evans Bank, N.A., is a full-service community bank with 18 branches providing comprehensive financial services to consumer, business and municipal customers throughout Western New York. More information about Evans is available online at www.evansbancorp.com and www.evansbank.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements about NBT and Evans and their industry involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Statements other than statements of current or historical fact, including statements regarding NBT’s or Evans’ future financial condition, results of operations, business plans, liquidity, cash flows, projected costs, and the impact of any laws or regulations applicable to NBT or Evans, are forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “may,” “will,” “should” and other similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results.

Among the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those described in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the following: (1) the businesses of NBT and Evans may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer to accomplish than expected; (2) the cost savings from the merger may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; (3) operating costs, customer loss and business disruption following the merger, including adverse effects on relationships with employees, may be greater than expected; (4) the possibility that the merger may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; (5) diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; (6) the possibility that the parties may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in the merger within the expected timeframes or at all and to successfully integrate Evans’ operations and those of NBT; (7) such integration may be more difficult, time consuming or costly than expected; (8) revenues following the proposed transaction may be lower than expected; (9) NBT’s and Evans’ success in executing their respective business plans and strategies and managing the risks involved in the foregoing; (10) the dilution caused by NBT’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the proposed transaction; (11) changes in general economic conditions, including changes in market interest rates and changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; and (12) legislative and regulatory changes. Further information about these and other relevant risks and uncertainties may be found in NBT’s and Evans’ respective Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. NBT and Evans do not undertake, and specifically disclaim any obligation, to publicly release the result of any revisions which may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Contacts NBT Bancorp Inc. Evans Bancorp, Inc.
     
  Scott A. Kingsley
President and Chief Executive Officer		 David J. Nasca
President and Chief Executive Officer
     
  Annette L. Burns
EVP and Chief Financial Officer		 John B. Connerton
EVP and Chief Financial Officer
     
  607-337-6589 716-926-2000
     
    Evans Investor Relations
Deborah K. Pawlowski, Alliance Advisors
[email protected]
716-843-3908
     

This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.



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Graco Provides Unaudited Supplemental Financial Information Reflecting its New 2025 Reporting Segments

Graco Provides Unaudited Supplemental Financial Information Reflecting its New 2025 Reporting Segments

MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Graco Inc. (NYSE:GGG), a leading manufacturer of fluid handling equipment, has made available on the “For Investors” page at www.graco.com unaudited supplemental financial information to recast the company’s historic segment financial information on a basis that reflects its new organizational structure. As previously announced, effective January 1, 2025, the Company will classify its business into three reportable segments: Contractor, Industrial and Expansion Markets.

  • The Industrial segment, will consist of the newly formed Industrial Division and the Powder Division. The company’s current Industrial and Lubrication Equipment Divisions, along with the Process Transfer Equipment business that is part of the company’s existing Process Division, are being combined to form the new global Industrial Division. The Powder Division will remain unchanged.

  • The Expansion Markets segment will consist of the Expansion Markets Division and will focus on driving inorganic growth in new or adjacent markets. The company’s existing environmental, semiconductor, high-pressure valves and electric motors businesses, together with select future ventures and acquisitions in new or adjacent markets, will reside within the Expansion Markets Division.

  • The Contractor segment, consisting of the Contractor Division, will remain unchanged as a reporting segment relative to prior periods.

ABOUT GRACO

Graco Inc. supplies technology and expertise for the management of fluids and coatings in both industrial and commercial applications. It designs, manufactures and markets systems and equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray fluid and powder materials. A recognized leader in its specialties, Minneapolis-based Graco serves customers around the world in the manufacturing, processing, construction, and maintenance industries. For additional information about Graco Inc., please visit us at www.graco.com.

Investors: David M. Lowe, 612-623-6456

Media: Sadie O. Moen, 612-623-6545

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Minnesota United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Manufacturing Other Manufacturing Machinery Machine Tools, Metalworking & Metallurgy Chemicals/Plastics

MEDIA:

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California American Water Encourages Customers to Follow Safety Tips

California American Water Encourages Customers to Follow Safety Tips

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Safety is of paramount importance to California American Water, for our customers and our employees. California American Water has implemented, and regularly monitors, safety measures ranging from providing safe, clean, and reliable water service, to keeping our workers, customers and the communities we serve safe.

Recently California American Water has been made aware of scammers posing as utility workers, going door to door, asking permission to enter customers’ homes in Monterey County. In the rare event that a California American Water employee asks for access to a home, they will always identify themselves as an employee, display a company ID badge, and provide clear identification and purpose of the visit. Some important tips to help avoid scams are:

  • Ask for proper identification such as a company ID and a driver’s license. Do not open the door to anyone who cannot provide these forms of identification.

  • Thoroughly inspect the ID badge. The front of a California American Water ID badge will display the person’s picture and the company logo. Customers may contact the company to confirm the identity of employees before allowing them onto their property.

  • Check the person’s vehicle. All California American Water vehicles have the company’s logo clearly displayed.

Following these simple tips can prevent scammers from accessing residents’ homes and helping keep them and their families safe.

California American Water would like to wish our customers a happy and safe holiday season and a prosperous 2025.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formally Twitter) and Instagram.

About California American Water

California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, provides high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 700,000 people. For more information, visit www.californiaamwater.com and follow California American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Josh Stratton

831-435-6015

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: California United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Utilities Energy

MEDIA:

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BRODSKY & SMITH SHAREHOLDER UPDATE: Notifying Investors of the Following Investigations: VOXX International Corporation (Nasdaq – VOXX), Penns Woods Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq – PWOD), Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq – STAF), Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. (NYSE American – AE)

BALA CYNWYD, Pa., Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brodsky & Smith reminds investors of the following investigations. If you own shares and wish to discuss the investigation, contact Jason Brodsky ([email protected]) or Marc Ackerman ([email protected]) at 855-576-4847. There is no cost or financial obligation to you.

VOXX International Corporation (Nasdaq – VOXX)

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, VOXX will be acquired by Gentex Corporation (Nasdaq – GNTX) for $7.50 per share in cash. The investigation concerns whether the VOXX Board breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to conduct a fair process, including whether Gentex is paying fair value to shareholders of the Company.

Additional information can be found at https://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/voxx-international-corporation-nasdaq-voxx/.

Penns Woods Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq – PWOD)

Under the terms of the agreement, Penns Woods will merge with Northwest Bancshares, Inc. (“Northwest”) (Nasdaq – NWBI). Northwest will acquire Penns Woods in an all-stock transaction. Penns Woods shareholders will be entitled to receive 2.385 shares of Northwest common stock for each share of Penns Woods common stock they own upon the effective time of the merger. Based on Northwest’s closing stock price of $14.44 as of December 16, 2024, the transaction consideration is valued at $34.44 for each share of Penns Woods. The investigation concerns whether the Penns Woods Board breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to conduct a fair process, including whether the deal offers fair value to the Company’s shareholders.

Additional information can be found at https://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/penns-woods-bancorp-inc-nasdaq-pwod/.

Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq – STAF)

Under the terms of the agreement, Staffing 360 will be acquired by Atlantic International Corp. (“Atlantic”) (OTC – ATLN). Staffing 360 shareholders will receive 1.202 Atlantic shares for each Staffing 360 share. Atlantic and Staffing 360 shareholders will own approximately 90% and 10%, respectively, of the combined company on a fully diluted basis. The investigation concerns whether the Staffing 360 Board breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to conduct a fair process, including the dilution of the Company’s shareholders in the combined company.

Additional information can be found at https://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/staffing-360-solutions-inc-nasdaq-staf/.

Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. (NYSE American – AE)

Under the terms of the agreement, Adams will be acquired by an affiliate of Tres Energy LLC (“Tres Energy”). Adams stockholders will receive $38.00 per share in cash in a deal with an enterprise value of $138.9 million. The investigation concerns whether the Adams Board breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to conduct a fair process, including whether Tres Energy is paying fair value to shareholders of the Company.

Additional information can be found at https://www.brodskysmith.com/cases/adams-resources-energy-inc-nyse-american-ae/.

Brodsky & Smith is a litigation law firm with extensive expertise representing shareholders throughout the nation in securities and class action lawsuits. The attorneys at Brodsky & Smith have been appointed by numerous courts throughout the country to serve as lead counsel in class actions and have successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients and shareholders. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.



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INVESTIGATION ALERT (NASDAQ: SEZL): DiCello Levitt LLP Is Investigating Investor Claims Against Sezzle Inc. and Encourages SEZL Investors with Losses to Contact the Firm

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DiCello Levitt LLP announces that it is investigating whether Sezzle Inc. (“Sezzle” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: SEZL) complied with federal securities laws. The Firm’s investigation focuses on whether the Company violated the federal securities laws and issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information required to be disclosed to investors.

Investors who purchased Sezzle securities and those with information about the allegations are encouraged to obtain additional information and assist the Firm’s investigation by contacting DiCello Levitt attorneys Brian O’Mara or Ruben Peña by calling (888) 287-9005 or at [email protected].

No Case Has Been Filed and No Class Has Been Certified. Until a case is filed and a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice.

Investigation Details:

Sezzle is a technology-enabled payments company that offers flexible financing option to consumers and merchants through a ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ service. Approximately 52% of Sezzle’s revenue for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024 came from “transaction income,” which includes, among other things, merchant processing fees and consumer fees. In the same period, Sezzle derived 33% of its revenue from its two “subscription” offerings.

On December 18, 2024, Hindenburg Research published a critical research report titled “Sezzle: A Failing ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Platform Playing Short Term Tricks As Insiders Cash Out Via Stock Sales And Margin Loans,” alleging, among other things, that it found “Sezzle is borrowing expensive capital to make extremely risky loans through a struggling platform that is rapidly losing customers and merchants” and, at the same time, “insiders are selling stock or cashing out through a massive margin loan.” According to the report, Hindenburg Research claims that “Sezzle borrows at a 12.65% interest rate to lend to extremely high-risk consumers” with bad credit despite its merchant and customer base declining by 51% and 20% since 2021. The report further states that Sezzle is actively “boosting its near-term subscription numbers” by “enrolling users into recurring monthly subscriptions without their awareness.” After extensive research, Hindenburg Research has concluded that Sezzle’s optimistic revenue numbers are obtained using short-term strategies to give the Company’s insiders an opportunity to cash out over $71 million in stock.

In response to the Hindenburg Research report, shares of Sezzle plunged to trade as low as $225 per share on December 18, 2024, falling more than 28% (or more than $90) from its close on December 17, 2024.

About DiCello Levitt:

At DiCello Levitt, we are dedicated to achieving justice for our clients through class action, business-to-business, public client, whistleblower, personal injury, civil and human rights, and mass tort litigation. Our lawyers are highly respected for their ability to litigate and win cases – whether by trial, settlement, or otherwise – for people who have suffered harm, global corporations that have sustained significant economic losses, and public clients seeking to protect their citizens’ rights and interests. Every day, we put our reputations – and our capital – on the line for our clients.

DiCello Levitt has achieved top recognition as Plaintiffs Firm of the Year and Trial Innovation Firm of the Year by the National Law Journal, in addition to its top-tier Chambers and Benchmark ratings. The New York Law Journal also recently recognized DiCello Levitt as a Distinguished Leader in trial innovation. For more information about the Firm, including recent trial victories and case resolutions, please visit www.dicellolevitt.com. 

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Media Contact

Amy Coker
4747 Executive Drive, Suite 240
San Diego, CA 92121
619-963-2426
[email protected]