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Flash Secures $85 Million to Back Special Purpose Vehicle to Propel Growth and Provide Flexible Payment Options

Flash

Flash, the industry-leading end-to-end parking technology platform, today announced that it has closed on $85 million in debt financing for a newly formed special purpose vehicle (“SPV”) to accelerate platform adoption and offer Flash clients an expanded range of flexible payment options. The debt capital, which can be increased up to $100 million, was provided by Vantage Infrastructure (“Vantage”), a leading independent specialist infrastructure credit fund. “Asset owners and operators have a myriad of budgetary and deployment preferences – the payment options we can now extend through the SPV will allow customers to join the Flash platform on terms that work best for them," said Chris Donus, President of Flash. “Innovation in payment options is as critical as platform innovation in pursuit of our vision for the parking industry’s transformation in light of the scale and momentum we're on pace to achieve." Flash’s payment options allow clients to select amongst flexible monthly payment plans that suit their budgets, regardless of scale, asset type, or configuration. This includes EV charging infrastructure and other advanced parking technologies offered by Flash. Flash anticipates extending the SPV structure and partnership with Vantage in future financings. ”We’re pleased to support Flash with a tailored financing solution that enables their team to continue to meet and exceed their clients’ need for better transport related infrastructure,” said Nick Cleary, Senior Partner at Vantage. “This is a great example of the opportunity to upgrade and transform proven traditional infrastructure that saves time and costs for drivers and help build out the EV charging network.” Evercore acted as Flash’s exclusive financial advisor, and Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft LLP provided legal counsel to Flash. Steptoe LLP acted as counsel to Vantage. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations — connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress from driving. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more. About Vantage Infrastructure Vantage Infrastructure is an independent infrastructure specialist manager committed to delivering sustainable investment solutions with an equity and debt infrastructure investment portfolio of over US $4 billion invested in infrastructure assets across Europe, North America, and Australia on behalf of global clients. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

September 09, 2024 09:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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EURONAV SHAREHOLDERS IN LINE FOR A US$46 MILLION PAYOUT FOLLOWING COURT RULING AGAINST CMB

FourWorld Capital Management

On Friday, the Brussels Market Court in Belgium ruled that Compagnie Maritime Belge (CMB) wrongly calculated the offer price of shares during its mandatory takeover of Euronav NV in February this year. The court decided the value of each share should be retrospectively increased by at least US$0.52, amounting to an additional pay out of US$46 million. This sum takes into account the 69.2 million shares tendered in March 2024, and those remaining that may be sold if the public offer is re-opened. The Markets’ Court found that when calculating the bid price, CMB had failed to take into account special advantages worth US$104 million granted to Frontline when simultaneously selling it the best part of Euronav’s fleet (its newest 24 VLCC’s or very large crude carriers). The Court’s findings are exceptionally critical of CMB and Frontline: “It is particularly curious that the negotiations regarding the sale of the fleet, although they involved a transaction between Frontline and Euronav, took place exclusively between Frontline and CMB. Euronav was not at the negotiating table. As FourWorld rightly puts it, Euronav was completely sidelined” (para. 112) “CMB and Frontline exerted tremendous pressure on Euronav's supervisory board. (…) The independent chairwoman of the council, in particular, was placed under intense pressure” (para. 115) “Under normal market conditions, transactions are negotiated between directly involved parties, especially between buyer and seller. This is not what happened here. The price of about 2.35 billion dollar paid by Frontline cannot therefore be considered market-conform under these circumstances. This price implied a particular advantage in favor of Frontline.” (para. 117) This ruling breaks new legal ground in Belgium and abroad regarding judicial protection of the minority shareholders, putting brazen bidders willing to game the system on notice. These findings were only made possible after key documents, including supervisory board meeting minutes, legal and financial advice and further evidence, were made available to the public following a court ruling in the United States earlier this year in a case also brought by FourWorld Capital Management LLC (FourWorld). John Addis, Founder and Chief Investment Officer (CIO) of FourWorld said: “Friday’s ruling makes it clear that Euronav’s two largest shareholders acted to serve their own interests at the expense of the company and minority shareholders which is an important first step in unravelling this deal. We believe there was a far greater cost to independent shareholders than recognized by the Brussels Market Court on Friday. “CMB and Frontline managed to pull off the deal of a lifetime underneath the noses of Euronav’s supervisory board and financial regulators. Our years of experience fighting for minority shareholder interests has shown that if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. FourWorld will continue to fight through the courts for a fair outcome to this case.” The Brussels Markets’ Court placed the resolution of the share price adjustment firmly back in the jurisdiction of the Belgian financial regulator (FSMA), ordering it to re-examine the bid price taking into account its findings. This means that the FSMA may yet increase the bid price by more than 0,52 US$ – something FourWorld will ask it to do. Having concluded that Euronav’s Supervisory board was sidelined and then coerced, this ruling paves the way for success in a separate legal challenge currently underway in the Antwerp Enterprise Court. In that case, FourWorld has petitioned for the unwinding of CMB’s mandatory takeover, Euronav’s US$2.35 billion fleet sale to Frontline and Euronav’s decision to renounce and settle its arbitration claim against Frontline. The case is scheduled to appear before the Antwerp Enterprise Court in May 2026. - ENDS - Notes for Editors: About FourWorld Capital Management LLC: FourWorld Capital Management is an SEC registered investment adviser with offices in New York and Munich. The company has a particular focus on legal and regulatory catalysts and is currently fighting for a fairer deal on behalf of minority shareholders who lost out during CMB’s mandatory takeover of Euronav NV in 2024 and following its failed merger with Frontline. Contact Information: To request interviews or further information please email: Jenny.wright@highgate.ltd or Theo.Crutcher@highgate.ltd FourWorld Capital Management LLC: FourWorld Capital Management is an SEC registered investment adviser with offices in New York and Munich. The company has a particular focus on legal and regulatory catalysts and is currently fighting for a fairer deal on behalf of minority shareholders who lost out during CMB’s mandatory takeover of Euronav NV in 2024 and following its failed merger with Frontline. Contact Details Highgate Jenny Wright jenny.wright@highgate.ltd Highgate Theo Crutcher theo.crutcher@highgate.ltd Company Website https://www.fourworldcapital.com/

September 09, 2024 12:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Seanergy Maritime (NASDAQ: SHIP) Raises Dividend Following Record-Breaking Q2 And H1 Results, United Maritime (NASDAQ: USEA) Rises Through Strategic Investments

Benzinga

By Gerelyn Terzo, Benzinga Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp. (NASDAQ: SHIP) reported a record-breaking second quarter, with performance extending through the first half of the year. To reward shareholders, the U.S.-listed, Athens-based company boosted its quarterly dividend and introduced a new payout policy, underscoring its commitment to driving growth and delivering value to investors. Seanergy Maritime, a leading pure-play Capesize ship owner, is sailing at peak performance in 2024. The company’s 18-vessel fleet, including 1 Newcastlemax and 17 Capesize vessels, has driven record results. In Q2 2024, Seanergy posted a net income of $14.1 million, a fresh all-time high which compares with $700,000 in the year-ago period. For the first half of 2024, net income surged to $24.3 million, a major turnaround from the $3.5 million loss in the same period last year. Q2 net revenue soared by 52% year-over-year to $43.1 million, while H1 revenue grew by 75% to $81.4 million. Earnings per share reached $0.68 for Q2 and $1.18 for H1. Seanergy's reported financial fundamentals have led the board to enhance its dividend policy, aiming to deliver even more value to shareholders. With a focus on distributing around 50% of operating cash flow after debt payments, the company boosted its Q2 cash dividend to $0.25 per share – up from $0.15 and $0.10 in the previous two quarters. This move continues their commitment to rewarding investors, having already returned $34.7 million in cash dividends since Q1 2022. Seanergy continues to boost shareholder value by resuming stock buybacks. The company repurchased $1.8 million worth of shares at an average price of $10.56 per share, under its $25 million share repurchase plan launched in December 2023. Chairman and CEO, Stamatis Tsantanis revealed he has been scooping up common shares and call options in the open market, with plans to acquire more SHIP stock in the upcoming quarters. “Based on our strong and visible cash flow generation, we expect to be able to continue returning significant capital to our shareholders in the coming quarters,” he said. Investors who might want to join in can learn more about Seanergy’s stock performance here. Seanergy’s Results Driven by Strategic Moves Seanergy’s CEO, Stamatis Tsantanis, attributed the record performance in Q2 and H1 2024 to the company’s strategic decision to position itself as a leading dry bulk operator with a pure-play Capesize fleet. The company says this move allowed the company to capitalize on the strong performance of the wider Capesize market, outpacing other dry bulk segments, catapulting the company ahead of the broader asset class. Seanergy has agreed to acquire, as previously announced, a modern Capesize vessel, enhancing its current fleet. The company expects to take delivery of a Japanese-built Capesize in Q3. After the latest additions, its fleet will comprise 19 high-quality Capesize vessels, up from 17 in early 2024. The Capesize market has been sailing smoothly since Q1 2024, according to Seanergy, marking its best performance in over a decade. This strong momentum continued into Q2, boosting Seanergy’s fleet to an average daily time charter equivalent (TCE) of $26,636. With a strategic hedging plan in place, Seanergy’s TCE was roughly 18% higher than the Baltic Capesize Index’s average of $22,600. “Seanergy is well positioned to continue performing strongly amidst the favorable Capesize market fundamentals, and we will remain focused on delivering high shareholder returns while opportunistically growing our fleet,” said Tsantanis. Seanergy Spin-Off Makes Strategic Investments United Maritime Corporation (Nasdaq: USEA), which was spun off from Seanergy two years ago, has also made strategic moves, capitalizing on opportunities across various diversified sectors. Following a recent swing to profitability in the second quarter, United Maritime has declared its seventh consecutive quarterly dividend of $0.075 per share. Additionally, the company is making a minority investment in a new offshore Energy Construction Vessel (ECV) project through a partnership with Norwegian counterparts, with expected completion in 2027. The ECV will serve both the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors, where demand is currently outpacing supply. United Maritime also partnered to charter-in an Aframax tanker, which is run by a reputable tanker pool operator, for as long as nine months. United Maritime has also secured $48.3 million year-to-date in financing deals, the proceeds of which will be directed toward refinancing multiple ship leases. Robust Vessel Demand Seanergy and United Maritime remain optimistic about the outlook for the Capesize sector, in which both report being advantageously positioned. Vessel demand remains robust amid a backdrop in which China's iron ore and coal imports are growing while a similar demand story unfolds in the Brazilian export market. Orderbook data suggests a slow-growing fleet size will persist, in response to which dry bulk demand is likely to outpace supply for the foreseeable future, according to the companies. Investors who are interested in diversifying their portfolios with exposure to the maritime industry with a leader in the Capesize space can learn more about Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp. and United Maritime Corporation by visiting Seanergy’s website here and United’s website here. Featured photo courtesy of Seanergy. Contact Details Seanergy Investor Relations E-mail: ir@seanergy.gr United Investor Relations E-mail: ir@usea.gr Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

September 04, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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New Video Series Offers Deep Insights into the Strategic Role of the Port of Savannah for Logistics Professionals

DB Schenker

DB Schenker, a global leader in supply chain management and logistics, is excited to announce the launch of a new video series that spotlights the Port of Savannah. This series, curated for logistics professionals and businesses considering or already utilizing the port, underscores its strategic importance in the global trade landscape. The video series features in-depth interviews with distinguished figures such as: Flavio Batista, Chief Commercial Officer of the Georgia Ports Authority Rosaline Kwan, Consul General for Canada in Southeast USA Leigh Ryan, Vice President of the World Trade Center in Savannah Javier Díaz De León, Consul General of Mexico in Atlanta Key Highlights: Strategic Importance of the Port of Savannah: Flavio Batista, Chief Commercial Officer of the Georgia Ports Authority, outlines the Port of Savannah’s pivotal role as a central hub linking ocean carriers to the U.S. Southeast region and beyond. “Our mission is to support economic development by connecting international markets to domestic distribution and supporting local manufacturing and agricultural sectors,” Batista explains. He highlights the port’s strategic location, unparalleled connectivity, and commitment to growth, which sets it apart from other ports. Economic and Community Impact: Batista emphasizes the port’s contribution to the regional economy, noting its influence on the logistics and supply chain sectors. “Almost every business in this region, from logistics companies to large distribution centers, relies on the Port of Savannah,” Batista adds. The port’s ongoing infrastructure developments, including the expansion of yard, berth, and rail capacities, are designed to meet future demand and ensure the port remains a vital economic engine for Georgia. Global Trade Relations: Javier Díaz De León, Consul General of Mexico in Atlanta, discusses the Port of Savannah’s role in enhancing trade relations between Mexico and the U.S. “The Port of Savannah exemplifies the robust trade and infrastructure capabilities of the United States, serving as a cornerstone of the Southeast region’s economy. It has been instrumental in benefitting local communities by creating jobs and fostering sustainable growth. As the number one trading partner of the United States and the number two trading partner of the state of Georgia, our collaboration with the Port of Savannah significantly enhances trade relations between Mexico and the United States, paving the way for future economic opportunities and regional development.” North American Trade and Resilience: Rosaline Kwan, Consul General for Canada in Southeast USA, reflects on the integrated supply chains between Canada and the U.S. and the Port of Savannah’s role in maintaining these connections. She underscores the port’s importance in facilitating trade, noting that over 800 vessels have traveled between Savannah and Canadian ports in recent years. Kwan also touches on the critical role of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in strengthening North American trade relations. Supporting Regional Businesses: Leigh Ryan, Vice President of the World Trade Center in Savannah, highlights the port’s impact on local and regional businesses. “The Port of Savannah is a key asset for Southeast Georgia, providing unparalleled access to international markets,” Ryan states. The World Trade Center Savannah collaborates closely with the port to support businesses in their international trade efforts, offering specialized training and facilitating connections with global partners. Catch the Full Interviews on DB Schenker’s LinkedIn: The complete series of interviews is available on DB Schenker’s LinkedIn page, offering valuable insights for logistics professionals and businesses. Follow the links to stay updated and engage with industry leaders: DB Schenker LinkedIn. Rosaline Kwan, Consul General of Canada in Atlanta. September 10th at 12 PM EST: http://bit.ly/4e1IUex Leigh Ryan, Vice President of the World Trade Center in Savannah. September 10th at 2 PM EST: https://bit.ly/4e0MLsf Flavio Batista, Chief Commercial Officer of the Georgia Ports Authority. September 12th at 12 PM EST: https://bit.ly/3X1KOF3 Javier Diaz de Leon, Consul General of Mexico in Atlanta. September 13th at 12 PM EST: https://bit.ly/4ejYcvx About DB Schenker Americas DB Schenker is one of the largest Integrated Logistics Service Providers in the Americas with more than 10,000 employees in 123 locations providing over 27 million sq. ft. of distribution operations to its clients. DB Schenker’s Americas presence includes Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, United States, and Venezuela. DB Schenker offers land transport and air and ocean freight, as well as comprehensive logistics solutions and global supply chain management services from a single source. With integrated partners across the Americas, DB Schenker provides the best combination of intimate local practices knowledge and global capabilities. About DB Schenker With around 72,700 employees at more than 1,850 locations in over 130 countries, DB Schenker is one of the world’s leading logistics service providers. The company operates land, air, and ocean transportation services, and it also offers comprehensive logistics and global supply chain management solutions from a single source. Aiming for a sustainable future of the logistics industry, DB Schenker continuously invests in innovative transport solutions, renewable energies, and low-emission products for its customers. Contact Details Nicholas Leighton +1 949-478-5880 media@nettresultsllc.com Company Website https://www.dbschenker.com

September 03, 2024 11:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NAVEX Announces 2024 Excellence Awards Finalists

NAVEX Global

NAVEX, a leading provider of integrated risk and compliance management software, announces today the 2024 NAVEX Excellence Awards finalists. Now in its fourth year, the awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to corporate governance, risk mitigation, and ethical practices. Each year, the NAVEX Excellence Awards highlight how robust governance, risk and compliance (GRC) programs can strengthen corporate culture and meaningfully impact business outcomes that matter. The 2024 finalists exemplify how effective GRC initiatives can proactively manage and mitigate risks when woven into the organizational fabric. "Congratulations to this year’s nominees and finalists for their outstanding achievements," said NAVEX Chief Customer Officer, Steve Chapman. "We are proud to partner with customers who are dedicated to advancing their GRC efforts. These awards shine a spotlight on some of the most innovative and effective programs in the industry, and we applaud the compliance teams at these companies for their ongoing efforts to build highly ethical, risk-aware organizations." The winners will be honored in several categories, including Ethics & Compliance, Risk Management, and Risk and Compliance Program of the Year. Selected from a highly competitive pool of nominations, this year’s finalists include: As in previous years, the judging panel brings together a mix of NAVEX leaders and seasoned GRC professionals. This year’s esteemed panel features: Barbara Boehler, Senior Director, Program on Corporate Compliance and Ethics, Fordham Law Bill Cameron, Founder and Principal, Cameron Advisory Services Carol Williams, CEO and Enterprise Risk Management Consultant, Strategic Decision Solutions Carrie Penman, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, NAVEX Kyle Brasseur, Former Editor in Chief, Compliance Week Kyle Martin, Vice President of GRC Solutions, NAVEX Matt Kelly, Editor and CEO, Radical Compliance LLC Stephen Chapman, Chief Customer Officer, NAVEX Vera Cherepanova, Ethics Advocate, Consultant, Author, Studio Etica Award recipients will be announced after to the 2024 NAVEX Next Virtual Conference on October 1. NAVEX is trusted by thousands of customers worldwide to help them achieve the business outcomes that matter most. As the global leader in integrated risk and compliance management software and services, we deliver solutions through the NAVEX One platform, the industry’s most comprehensive governance, risk and compliance (GRC) information system. For more information, visit NAVEX.com and our blog. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Contact Details Navex Global +1 617-388-5773 scott.levesque@navex.com Company Website https://navex.com

September 03, 2024 08:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Nuvectis Pharma Rises in Pre-Market Following FDA Orphan Drug Designation for NXP800, Fueling Optimism Ahead of Key Clinical Data

Global Markets News

Nuvectis Pharma (NASDAQ: NVCT) has achieved a significant milestone with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granting Orphan Drug Designation for its lead candidate, NXP800. This designation, specifically for the treatment of ARID1a-deficient ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers, marks a critical step forward in Nuvectis’s mission to address unmet needs in oncology. Orphan Drug Designation: A Strategic Advantage The FDA’s Orphan Drug Designation is awarded to drugs that show promise in treating rare diseases affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. For Nuvectis, this designation not only validates the potential of NXP800 but also provides several strategic benefits. These include tax credits for clinical trial costs, exemption from certain FDA fees, and potentially seven years of market exclusivity upon approval. NXP800 targets ARID1a-deficient cancers, a subset of ovarian cancers that present significant treatment challenges. The Orphan Drug Designation underscores the importance of this candidate in potentially offering a new, more effective treatment option for patients with this specific genetic mutation. Background and Market Impact This latest achievement builds on Nuvectis Pharma’s earlier successes. Earlier this year, the FDA granted Fast Track Designation to NXP800 for its development in platinum-resistant, ARID1a-mutated ovarian cancer. The Fast Track status, combined with the Orphan Drug Designation, highlights the urgent need for innovative treatments in this space and positions NXP800 as a potential game-changer in oncology. Financial analysts have taken note of Nuvectis’s progress. H.C. Wainwright recently reiterated its buy rating for Nuvectis, setting a price target of $21. This optimistic outlook reflects the market’s confidence in the company’s strategic direction, particularly as it prepares to release key clinical data later this year. Anticipation for Upcoming Results The next few months are expected to be pivotal for Nuvectis Pharma. The company is poised to share updates from its ongoing Phase 1b clinical trial of NXP800, which targets patients with platinum-resistant, ARID1a-mutated ovarian cancer. This trial is being closely watched, as positive results could significantly advance the development of NXP800, bringing it closer to pivotal trials and eventual regulatory approval. Additionally, Nuvectis is also conducting a Phase 1a dose escalation study for NXP900, its second key candidate, which targets YES1/SRC-driven tumors. Updates from this study are expected to provide further insights into the safety and potential efficacy of NXP900. ### Nuvvectis' Full announcment, titled " Nuvectis Pharma Announces Orphan Drug Designation Granted by the FDA for NXP800 for the Treatment of ARID1a-deficient Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancers" was published on August 29th, 2024. ### This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as financial, investment or any form of professional advice, recommendation or endorsement. Please review the full documentation detailing financial compensation disclosures and disclaimers the article is subject to. https://justpaste.it/fcm9n/pdf. Global Markets News Network is a commercial digital brand compensated to provide coverage of innovative companies and industries and it is thus subject to conflicts of interest. Contact Details Global Markets News News Coverage ronald@futuremarketsresearch.com

August 29, 2024 08:20 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Navigate your Investment Roadmap with Select Sector SPDR ETFs

Select Sector SPDR

In an era where market dynamics shift as swiftly as the winds, Select Sector SPDR ETFs remain a beacon for investors aiming to harness the potential of sector-specific investments. Tailored to meet the diverse needs of both individual and institutional investors, these ETFs chart a course for strategic portfolio management by distilling the vast S&P 500 into accessible segments. Focused Investment Across Diverse Sectors Select Sector SPDR ETFs stand out by offering a focused approach to investing, breaking down the broad landscape of the S&P 500 into key sectors. This segmentation allows investors to pinpoint their investments according to specific economic areas, aligning their portfolios with their investment goals, risk assessments, and market perspectives. Below is a glimpse into the diverse holdings that form the core of the Select Sector SPDR ETFs: Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC): Zooms in on the telecommunications and media sectors, capturing the pulse of digital communication. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): Targets the vibrant consumer goods and services sector, from retail giants to entertainment behemoths. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP): Focuses on essential consumer goods and services, providing stability in fluctuating markets. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): Powers through with a dedicated look at the energy sector, from fossil fuels to renewable resources. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): Encompasses the robust banking, investment, and insurance industries, the backbone of economic infrastructure. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV): Centers on the pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and services sectors, addressing global health needs. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI): Broadens the horizon with manufacturing, construction, and logistics firms. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB): Covers the foundational chemicals, construction materials, and packaging industries. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE): Opens doors to commercial real estate services and REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): Accelerates into the information technology and electronics sectors, powering innovation and connectivity. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU): Illuminates the path with utility companies, ensuring the flow of essential services. A Path for Strategic Investment By offering a lens through which to invest in specific sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs enable investors to steer their portfolios with confidence and clarity. The ETFs’ commitment to transparency and strategic focus empowers investors to adapt and thrive amidst the ebb and flow of market conditions. In the evolving landscape of the financial markets, Select Sector SPDR ETFs stand as a testament to the power of targeted investment. Through detailed sector analysis and dedicated portfolio exposure, these ETFs offer a distinguished pathway for those seeking to refine their investment strategies with sector-specific allocations. About Select Sector SPDR ETFs Select Sector SPDR ETFs are a series of exchange-traded funds designed to provide investors with an effective way to engage in sector-specific investment strategies. By segmenting the S&P 500 into distinct sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs furnish investors with the tools necessary for targeted and strategic investment decisions. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007734 EXP 10/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

August 22, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Investors Could Increase Exposure To Small- and Micro-Caps Over The Next Year: Research Published By New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR)

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga With interest rate cuts expected soon and other market conditions potentially set to improve, savvy investors are turning their attention to small-cap and micro-cap stocks, a new study suggests. According to the research, which was commissioned by advanced aerospace engineering company New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR), both institutional and retail investors might significantly boost their allocation to these market segments over the next 12 months. Visit New Horizon Aircraft’s website to learn more about its approach to innovating and how it is building its position as a key player in the advanced air mobility market. Growing Appeal Of Small- And Micro-Cap Stocks The study, carried out by PureProfile, surveyed fund managers in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Asia with a collective $82.4 billion in assets under management. A notable 76% of the respondents said they anticipate that institutional investors will increase their exposure to small- and micro-caps over the next six to 12 months. Of this number, 34% think the allocations will increase by 25% or more. Furthermore, retail investors are also expected to allocate more to micro- and small-caps, with 83% of the study’s respondents saying this will be the case. Around half said retail investors will boost their investments by more than 25%, while 12% think retail investors could increase their exposure by as much as 50%. The study also found there to be a perception among some fund managers that current exposure to small- and micro-cap stocks is underweight. Approximately one-third of respondents described institutional investor exposure to these segments as underweight, while 59% expressed this sentiment regarding retail investors. However, the research also found that 27% of respondents consider institutional investor exposure to these stocks as overweight, while 30% think the same for retail investors. According to Horizon Aircraft CEO Brandon Robinson, this shift in investment strategy could be driven by the potential for higher growth rates in small-cap companies compared to their larger counterparts. “As the economy rebounds, small and micro-cap companies are likely to have higher growth potential than large-cap companies. This is due to their agility in capitalizing on new technologies alongside investors looking for significantly higher growth potential over the magnificent seven and other ultra-large cap stocks that are showing signs of being overbought,” Robinson notes. Lessons From The Dot-Com Bubble The late-1990s/early 2000s period provides an interesting parallel to today’s market environment, showcasing how small-cap stocks can rebound strongly after a period of underperformance. During the dot-com bubble, large-cap stocks, particularly those tied to the internet boom, significantly outpaced small caps. These tech giants, much like Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) today, saw their valuations skyrocket, creating a significant valuation gap between large and small-cap stocks. However, in the years after the dot-com bubble burst, small caps began to outperform large caps as the market recovered. Those who invested in stocks in the S&P 500’s Information Technology index in 2000 lost 29% cumulatively over the next five years. In contrast, those who continued to invest in small-cap value gained 89%, based on the Russell 2000 Value Index from the start of 2001 through 2005. Today, the valuation gap between small and large caps is the widest it has been since the dot-com era. In terms of forward price-to-earnings, small caps are currently trading at 14 times earnings, while large caps are trading at 20 times. This disparity suggests that small caps could potentially be once again poised for a period of outperformance. Horizon Aircraft: A Small-Cap Stock In The Advanced Air Mobility Space One small-cap stock that could benefit from this reallocation of investments is HOVR. New Horizon Aircraft is promising to shake up the advanced air mobility industry with its hybrid electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft, called the Cavorite X7. With a projected useful load of 1,500 lbs, an anticipated maximum speed of 250 miles per hour and a range of 500 miles, the Cavorite X7 is designed for a wide range of applications ranging from medical evacuation to critical supply delivery, disaster relief, special military missions and regional air mobility. For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, keeping an eye on New Horizon Aircraft and similar small-cap innovators could be a smart move. Read more about New Horizon Aircraft: On The Horizon: How One Company Plans To Use Its Innovative Aircraft Design To Revolutionize Regional Air Travel New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) Announces Key Technical Updates On Development Of eVTOL Prototype From Stage To Stage: How New Horizon Aircraft's eVTOLs Could Simplify Tour Logistics For Taylor Swift Sustainably Featured photo by Sergei Tokmakov on Pixabay. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

August 19, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Pilotless Planes Are Coming, But Not Just Yet, Says New Horizon Aircraft CEO

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Autonomous vehicles have captured the imagination of consumers in recent years. With billions of dollars invested into making driverless cars a reality, companies like Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) have taken the lead in pushing this technology forward. What many don’t know, however, is that the aviation industry is also on the brink of an autonomous revolution, with the market for autonomous aircraft projected to be worth some $22.71 billion by 2030. One company using its aviation expertise to take on this challenge is Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR). The company, led by CEO Brandon Robinson, is seeking to shake up the future of air travel with its groundbreaking hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the Cavorite X7. In a recent interview with Benzinga, Robinson, a former CF-18 fighter pilot, spoke about the use of autonomous technology in aviation, whether there will still be a role for human pilots and the company’s strategy for leading this transformation. Autonomous Flight Tech And The Need For Pilots As Robinson points out, commercial aircraft are already somewhat autonomous, with most commercial airliners able to fly and land autonomously. Despite this, most commercial aircraft still require not one but two pilots present in the cockpit. "The air environment is very complicated and unforgiving. There are many unforeseen circumstances that often arrive, and it has been historically important to have a human in control of the aircraft in order to properly analyze the myriad of possibilities and choose an action that prioritizes safety," he explained. However, while we might not be getting rid of pilots just yet, the industry could be on a path to pilotless flight within a decade. Robinson notes that “many commercial aircraft are largely completely autonomous now, with several able to fly the majority of the route, land and stop on the runway without any human pilot intervention. It is logical to assume that eventually, the system may evolve to have human pilots trained only in a remote monitoring role." Horizon Aircraft’s Medium-Term Outlook While the technology for fully autonomous flight is still developing, Horizon Aircraft is focusing on piloted aircraft for the foreseeable future, recognizing that customer comfort and trust are paramount. However, the company is already preparing for a future where autonomous air travel could become the norm. Its current eVTOL prototype, the Cavorite X7, is equipped with advanced sensors and fly-by-wire systems that set the stage for a potentially smooth transition to autonomy when the time is right. Long-Term Future: Autonomous Air Taxis In the long term, Robinson sees an exciting future for autonomous flight where pilotless air taxis are as routine as taking an Uber (NYSE: UBER). Aside from the futuristic aesthetic, the potential benefits of urban air travel are massive – by taking advantage of the “third dimension” of the sky, air taxis can bypass ground traffic, stack at different altitudes and reduce congestion. This ability to keep aircraft separated improves safety and efficiency when compared to driving on roads. Cavorite X7 Latest Developments Horizon Aircraft’s Cavorite X7 is an eVTOL, which means it can take off and land vertically – just like a helicopter. The company reports that what makes this eVTOL unique is its ability to reconfigure its wings en route to fly like a traditional aircraft, using Horizon’s patented HOVR Wing technology. This wing reconfiguration allows it to fly twice as fast as a helicopter and more efficiently. It also uses a hybrid-electric main power system, which allows it to recharge its battery array in flight and after landing. The Cavorite X7 has already proven to perform well in hover and in slow forward flight. The company’s current flight-testing program is focused on flying at higher speeds and reaching “transition speed,” at which point the wings can reconfigure. Earlier this year, Horizon announced a number of promising technical updates on the development of its prototype, including the validation of its patent-pending yaw control system, as well as the start of production and testing of its full-scale core vertical lifting fan technology. With progress on the technology gaining momentum, Robinson is confident that Horizon can soon make its vision a reality. “For the past few years there have been many groups questioning the reports calling for explosive growth across the industry. We’re now seeing technology and advanced air mobility companies mature to the point that this optimism can be justified,” said the CEO. Watch the complete interview with Benzinga here: https://www.youtube.com/live/rnLgQdMaAPM?t=10351s Read more about New Horizon Aircraft: On The Horizon: How One Company Plans To Use Its Innovative Aircraft Design To Revolutionize Regional Air Travel New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) Announces Key Technical Updates On Development Of eVTOL Prototype From Stage To Stage: How New Horizon Aircraft's eVTOLs Could Simplify Tour Logistics For Taylor Swift Sustainably Featured photo by Kim Hunter from Pixabay. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

August 15, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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