Corvus Pharmaceuticals Announces Partner Angel Pharmaceuticals Initiated Phase 1/1b Clinical Trial of ITK Inhibitor CPI-818 in China

BURLINGAME, Calif., Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Corvus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Corvus or the Company) (NASDAQ: CRVS), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced that its partner in China, Angel Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Angel Pharma), has treated the first patient in its Phase 1/1b clinical trial of Corvus’ small molecule ITK inhibitor CPI-818 for the treatment of relapsed/refractory T-cell lymphomas (TCL) in China.

“We are excited that Angel has begun to enroll patients in its Phase 1/1b clinical trial of CPI-818, which marks the first clinical use of one of our drug candidates in China,” said Richard A. Miller, M.D., co-founder, president and chief executive officer of Corvus. “There is a significant opportunity to address unmet clinical need in China, where TCL are more common than in North America. In addition, we believe this study will accelerate the global development of CPI-818 for lymphomas and other T cell mediated diseases such as autoimmune disorders.”

The Angel Pharma Phase 1/1b clinical trial will evaluate various dosing regimens in patients with a variety of TCL, including peripheral T cell lymphoma, angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma, NK T cell lymphoma and other T cell lymphomas. Enrolled patients must have failed standard therapies and will receive CPI-818 as a single agent given orally until disease progression. The trial is designed to assess safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK)/pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy.

Professor Song Yuqin, the lead primary investigator of the CPI-818 Phase 1/1b clinical trial in China and Director of the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO), Secretary-General of the Anti-Lymphoma Alliance of the CSCO, and Deputy Director of Lymphoma Department at Peking University Cancer Hospital, said, “the number of new cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in China is about 93,000 per year, of which TCL is a challenging sub-group. We look forward to recruiting more patients that may benefit from this treatment.”

Corvus co-founded Angel Pharma to develop its pipeline in greater China and currently holds an equity stake of 49.7% in the company. Angel Pharma licensed the rights from Corvus to develop, manufacture and commercialize CPI-818 in greater China and is responsible for all expenses related to its development in China.

About Angel Pharmaceuticals 

Angel Pharma is a privately held biopharmaceutical company developing a pipeline of precisely targeted investigational medicines for cancer, autoimmune, infectious and other serious diseases in China. Angel Pharma was launched through a collaboration with U.S.-based Corvus Pharmaceuticals and investments from investors in China. Angel Pharma licensed the rights to develop and commercialize Corvus’ three clinical-stage candidates – mupadolimab, CPI-818 and ciforadenant – in greater China and obtained global rights to Corvus’ BTK inhibitor preclinical programs. Under the collaboration, Corvus currently has a 49.7% equity stake in Angel Pharma excluding 7% of Angel’s equity reserved for issuance under the Angel ESOP, and Corvus has designated three individuals on Angel’s five-person Board of Directors. For more information, visit www.angelpharma.com.

About Corvus Pharmaceuticals

Corvus Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company. Corvus’ lead product candidate is mupadolimab (CPI-006), a humanized monoclonal antibody directed against CD73 that has exhibited immunomodulatory activity and activation of immune cells in preclinical studies. The Company’s second clinical program, CPI-818, is an investigational, oral, small molecule drug that selectively inhibited ITK in preclinical studies and is in a multicenter Phase 1/1b clinical trial in patients with several types of T-cell lymphomas. Its third clinical program, ciforadenant (CPI-444), is an oral, small molecule inhibitor of the A2A receptor. For more information, visit www.corvuspharma.com.

About CPI-818

CPI-818 is an investigational small molecule drug given orally that has selectively inhibited ITK (interleukin-2-inducible T-cell kinase) in preclinical studies. It was designed to possess dual properties: to block malignant T-cell growth and to modulate immune responses. ITK, an enzyme, is expressed predominantly in T-cells and plays a role in T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell lymphomas and leukemias, as well as in normal immune function. Interference with ITK signaling can modulate immune responses to various antigens. The Company believes the inhibition of specific molecular targets in T-cells may be of therapeutic benefit for patients with T-cell lymphomas and leukemias and in patients with autoimmune diseases. The Company is conducting a Phase 1/1b trial in patients with refractory T-cell lymphomas that was designed to select the optimal dose of CPI-818 and evaluate its safety, PK, target occupancy, biomarkers and efficacy. Interim data from the Phase 1/1b clinical trial of CPI-818 for T cell lymphoma demonstrated tumor responses in very advanced, refractory, difficult to treat T cell malignancies. As reported in December 2020 at the American Society of Hematology (ASH), of seven patients with peripheral T cell lymphoma, there has been one complete response lasting over 15 months and one partial response lasting for over five months.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements related to the potential safety and efficacy of mupadolimab, CPI-818 and ciforadenant, such as CPI-818’s potential as a treatment of TCL; whether the Phase 1/1b clinical study initiated by Angel Pharma will accelerate global development of CPI-818; the Company’s ability and Angel Pharmaceutical’s ability to develop and advance product candidates into and successfully complete preclinical studies and clinical trials,; and the timing of the availability and announcement of clinical data and certain other product development milestones. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. These statements often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “seek,” “will,” “may” or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to, risks detailed in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 1, 2021, as well as other documents that may be filed by the Company from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, the following factors, among others, could cause results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: the Company’s ability to demonstrate sufficient evidence of efficacy and safety in its clinical trials of mupadolimab, CPI-818 and ciforadenant; the accuracy of the Company’s estimates relating to its ability to initiate and/or complete preclinical studies and clinical trials; the results of preclinical studies may not be predictive of future results; the unpredictability of the regulatory process; regulatory developments in the United States, and other foreign countries; regulatory developments in the United States, and other foreign countries; the costs of clinical trials may exceed expectations; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s operations and clinical development plans, as well as the operations of its partners and suppliers; and the Company’s ability to raise additional capital. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee that the events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur, and the timing of events and circumstances and actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All such statements speak only as of the date made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

INVESTOR CONTACT:

Leiv Lea
Chief Financial Officer
Corvus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
+1-650-900-4522
[email protected]

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sheryl Seapy
Real Chemistry
+1-949-903-4750
[email protected]  



Westwood One Launches “Eliott & Nina”

New Syndicated CHR Evening Show Debuts January 17

NEW YORK, Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CUMULUS MEDIA’s (NASDAQ: CMLS) Westwood One will introduce “Eliott & Nina” a new Contemporary Hit Radio show to broadcast live from Westwood One’s Atlanta studios beginning Monday, January 17. Each weeknight from 7 p.m. to 12 midnight, Eliott and Nina will engage listeners with content targeting young adults including today’s hottest hits, celebrity and artist updates, pop culture news, listener calls, and extensive social media integrations.

“Eliott and Nina are poised to reimagine and recharge nighttime CHR,” said Brian Philips, Executive Vice President of Content and Audience. “Bringing chemistry, comedy and cultural relevance, they will light up every platform with this fast-paced new entry.”

“Eliott and Nina are the perfect duo to anchor our new nationally syndicated evening show. Combined, they have covered both coasts and every corner of this country and know better than anyone how to reach the young adult demo and build a loyal following nationwide,” said Suzanne Grimes, EVP Marketing, CUMULUS MEDIA and President, Westwood One.

“Eliott & Nina” is available via satellite receiver. For more information on “Eliott & Nina,” contact Todd Alan at (212) 735-1107 or [email protected].

About Eliott King

Originally from the west side of Indianapolis, Eliott attended college and honed his radio skills in Michigan. He spent 10 years hosting radio gigs across the country from Los Angeles, Houston, Indianapolis, and Philadelphia before settling in Atlanta. Eliott is a strong advocate for mental health awareness. You can catch him on social media with plenty of content and ridiculous videos.

About Nina Hajian

Nina is an award-winning broadcast pro with experience in major markets including New York and Chicago. Nina launched her career in Seattle radio, doing everything from hanging banners to cracking the mic on every daypart. She served as Seattle radio’s exclusive red-carpet correspondent at major Hollywood events such as the Grammy Awards, American Idol finales, FOX Premieres, and Teen Choice Awards. Nina has been recognized nationally for her work with two Gracie Awards in three years. Nina raises awareness for breast cancer and suicide prevention.

About Westwood One

Westwood One, the national-facing arm of CUMULUS MEDIA (NSDQ: CMLS), offers iconic, nationally syndicated sports, news, and entertainment content to more than 250 million monthly listeners across an audio network of nearly 7,300 affiliated broadcast radio stations and media partners. Westwood One is the largest audio network in America, home to premium content that defines the culture, including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, CNN, the AP, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and Westwood One Backstage. The rapidly growing Cumulus Podcast Network delivers popular network and industry personalities and programs. Westwood One connects listeners with their passions through programs and platforms that have everyone listening. For more information, please visit www.westwoodone.com.

Contact:

Karen Glover | Westwood One | [email protected]



Bionano Genomics Hosts Final Day of 2022 Symposium with Presentations Demonstrating the Combined Detection Power of OGM and NGS

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bionano Genomics, Inc. (BNGO), pioneer of optical genome mapping (OGM) solutions on the Saphyr® system and provider of NxClinical™, the leading software solutions for visualization, interpretation and reporting of genomic data, capped off the last day of 2022 Symposium, the Company’s premiere event showcasing OGM research applications across key clinical areas of constitutional genetic disease, hematologic malignancies, solid tumors and OGM combined with next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Today’s presentations demonstrated that the combination of OGM and NGS can reveal more answers than NGS alone, with cost-effective, scalable, sensitive, accurate and comprehensive genome analysis for genetic disease and cancer research. NGS is unable to accurately measure structural variants (SVs), which can be overcome by the complementarity of OGM to enable accurate detection of variants from single base pairs to full chromosomes.

The combined approach of OGM and NGS changed the way researchers approached workflows for evaluation of hematologic malignancies. In his presentation, Dr. Ravindra Kolhe, from the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, shared a unique approach that added value to the existing NGS workflow by combining OGM with a 523-gene panel on NGS. The combination resulted in additional information beyond what a smaller 54-gene panel, karyotype and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) could detect, including single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variants (CNVs) and translocations. Dr. Kolhe also shared one of the first visualizations of the combination of OGM and sequencing data using BioDiscovery’s NxClinical software, which enables a streamlined interpretation for both data types in an integrated simplified view for faster time to results.

In her presentation, Dr. Gordana Raca, from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, shared how OGM and capture-based transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) enabled an increase in variant detection and molecular subtyping for previously unknown cases in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Use of these techniques allowed discovery of novel fusions associated with pediatric B-ALL and helped elucidate the chromosomal mechanism through which these abnormal fusions were generated.

In a third presentation, Dr. Rashmi Kanagal Shamana, from MD Anderson Cancer Center, discussed a comprehensive assessment of a large myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) cohort using OGM and a targeted NGS panel. Results showed that the high throughput whole genome structural variant profiling enabled by OGM revealed a much higher frequency of SVs in MDS, half of which were not detected by conventional karyotyping. These cryptic clinically significant SVs were seen in approximately 30% of MDS patients in her research study and resulted in change in the prognostic category for 10% of the subjects.

Applications of OGM + NGS to investigations of genetic disease revealed new disease-causing variants and showed improved performance over other methods. Dr. Kornelia Neveling, from Radboud University Medical Center, presented on how OGM and long-read HiFi genome sequencing helped to identify different types of hidden structural variants in three subjects with inherited retinal diseases.

Dr. Laila El-Khattabi, from Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), presented findings from her study using OGM to characterize apparently balanced SVs found in people with developmental disorders. Their molecular characterization is essential to establishing proper genotype-phenotype correlations, which is not possible with current cytogenetic techniques. Short-read whole genome sequencing (srWGS) is capable of detecting balanced rearrangements, at a resolution down to one base pair, but has a high failure rate. Dr. El-Khattabi’s results suggested that OGM may allow for a higher detection rate of SVs and complement srWGS in developmental pathologies for a more complete analysis of the genome.

In cancer research, OGM + NGS were used to characterize both germline and tumor genetic aberrations. During her presentation, Dr. Mariangela Sabatella, from Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, described a case in which OGM revealed an underlying germline mutation in a family with two siblings who were neonatally diagnosed with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT). This rare pediatric tumor is associated with biallelic inactivation of SMARCB1. Routine analysis did not identify any clear pathogenic SMARCB1 variants. OGM was the only method used by Dr. Sabatella that could identify the ATRT predisposing insertion of an SVA-E retrotransposon element of ~2.8 kb.

Dr. Jens Luebeck, from University of California San Diego, presented on how combining OGM and NGS revealed the complex structures of circular extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) and other genomic focal amplifications in cancer genomes, especially in tumors. These genetic changes are associated with lower patient survival and enhanced tumor evolution. Using a combination of OGM and NGS, Dr. Luebeck was able to reveal megabase-scale maps of ecDNA, ecDNA-derived homogenous staining regions (HSRs), and other focal amplifications in multiple cancer cell lines, demonstrating the combined power of these methods.

“We believe the combination of OGM with NGS demonstrates how structural variant detection can add key information to our understanding across multiple clinical areas, as today’s sessions reflected,” remarked Alka Chaubey, PhD, FACMG, Chief Medical Officer of Bionano. “As 2022 Symposium closes, we are so excited by all of the science shared and look forward to ongoing collaborations with our colleagues.”

“Today’s sessions support our belief that OGM can be performed side-by-side with NGS in multiple applications for a scalable and more comprehensive detection of genetic variants,” commented Erik Holmlin, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bionano. “The quality of the research shared this week demonstrates the continued impactful application of OGM. Once again, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to our customers for their continued collaboration and feedback.”

The online conference center for 2022 Symposium will be available for the entire year so register now to view all the content! Symposium registration is open to all and free, so everyone can experience all of the recorded presentations and posters from the event. Register today at https://www.labroots.com/ms/virtual-event/bngo2022.

About Bionano Genomics

Bionano Genomics is a provider of genome analysis solutions that can enable researchers and clinicians to reveal answers to challenging questions in biology and medicine. The Company’s mission is to transform the way the world sees the genome through OGM solutions, diagnostic services and software. The Company offers OGM solutions for applications across basic, translational and clinical research. Through its Lineagen business, the Company also provides diagnostic testing for patients with clinical presentations consistent with autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. Through its BioDiscovery business, the Company also offers an industry-leading, platform-agnostic software solution, which integrates next-generation sequencing and microarray data designed to provide analysis, visualization, interpretation and reporting of copy number variants, single-nucleotide variants and absence of heterozygosity across the genome in one consolidated view. For more information, visit www.bionanogenomics.com, www.lineagen.com or www.biodiscovery.com

Forward-Looking Statements of Bionano Genomics

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend” and similar expressions (as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions or circumstances) convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes and are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our intentions, beliefs, projections, outlook, analyses or current expectations concerning, among other things, the benefits of combining OGM with NGS, including cost-effectiveness, scalability, accuracy and comprehensiveness; the ability of the combination of OGM with NGS to accurately measure SVs; OGM’s ability to complement srWGS; and the ability of structural variant detection to add to clinical findings in multiple areas. Each of these forward-looking statements involves risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause such a difference include the risks and uncertainties associated with: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and the global economy; general market conditions; changes in the competitive landscape, including the introduction of competitive technologies or improvements in existing technologies; failure of future study results to support those demonstrated during the presentations referenced in this press release; changes in our strategic and commercial plans; our ability to obtain sufficient financing to fund our strategic plans and commercialization efforts; the ability of medical and research institutions to obtain funding to support adoption or continued use of our technologies; and the risks and uncertainties associated with our business and financial condition in general, including the risks and uncertainties described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and in other filings subsequently made by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management’s assumptions and estimates as of such date. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of the receipt of new information, the occurrence of future events or otherwise.

CONTACTS

Company Contact:

Erik Holmlin, CEO
Bionano Genomics, Inc.
+1 (858) 888-7610
[email protected]

Investor Relations:

Amy Conrad
Juniper Point
+1 (858) 366-3243
[email protected]

Media Relations:

Michael Sullivan
Seismic
+1 (503) 799-7520
[email protected]



Papaya Growth Opportunity Corp. I Announces Pricing of $250 Million Initial Public Offering

New York, NY, Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Papaya Growth Opportunity Corp. I (the “Company”), a newly incorporated blank check company, today announced the pricing of its initial public offering of 25,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and trade under the ticker symbol “PPYAU” beginning January 14, 2022.

The Company’s management team is led by Chairperson Patrick Pohlen, Chief Executive Officer Clay Whitehead, President Alexander Spiro, and Chief Financial Officer and Secretary Daniel Rogers.

The Company was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. While the Company may pursue an initial business combination target in any industry, it currently intends to concentrate its search for a target business operating in the software, internet, media, fintech, healthcare IT or consumer industry sectors and to focus on vertical solutions driven by AI, marketplaces, platforms and networks.

Each unit consists of one share of Class A common stock and one-half of one redeemable warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one share of Class A common stock at a price of $11.50 per share. Only whole warrants are exercisable. Once the securities comprising the units begin trading separately, the Company expects that the shares of Class A common stock and redeemable warrants will be listed on the Nasdaq under the symbols “PPYA” and “PPYAW,” respectively.

Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is serving as sole book-running manager. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,750,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, copies of which may be obtained by contacting Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention Capital Markets, 499 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022, or by e-mail at [email protected].

A registration statement relating to these securities was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on January 13, 2022. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.


Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the proposed initial public offering and the anticipated use of the net proceeds. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all, or that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the Company’s offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.


About Papaya Growth Opportunity Corp. I

The Company was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. While the Company may pursue an initial business combination target in any industry, it currently intends to concentrate its search for a target business operating in the software, internet, media, fintech, healthcare IT or consumer industry sectors and to focus on vertical solutions driven by AI, marketplaces, platforms and networks.


Media Contact


Clay Whitehead
Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]



Surgalign Holdings, Inc. to Participate at the Sidoti Virtual Small Cap Conference

DEERFIELD, Ill., Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surgalign Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: SRGA), a global medical technology company focused on elevating the standard of care through the evolution of digital health, today announced that the management team will participate in a fireside chat at the Sidoti Virtual Small Cap Conference on Thursday, January 20, 2022. The Company is scheduled to present at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time the same day via webcast.

A live audio webcast of the conference fireside chat will be available online through the investor relations page of the Company’s website at surgalign.com/investors/. A replay of the webcast will be archived on the website.

About Surgalign Holdings, Inc.

Surgalign Holdings, Inc. is a global medical technology company committed to the promise of digital health to drive transformation across the surgical landscape. Uniquely aligned and resourced to advance the standard of care, the company is building technologies physicians and other health providers will look to for what is truly possible for their patients. Surgalign is focused on developing solutions that predictably deliver superior clinical and economic outcomes. Surgalign markets products throughout the United States and in more than 50 countries worldwide through an expanding network of top independent distributors. Surgalign is headquartered in Deerfield, IL, with commercial, innovation and design centers in San Diego, CA, Warsaw and Poznan, Poland, and Wurmlingen, Germany. Learn more at www.surgalign.com and connect on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Forward Looking Statement

This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, our management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by our management. Words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the risks described in public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Our actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results reflected in these forward-looking statements. Copies of the company’s SEC filings may be obtained by contacting the company or the SEC or by visiting Surgalign’s website at www.surgalign.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Investor and Media Contact
Mike Vallie
ICR Westwicke
[email protected]



Home BancShares, Inc. Announces Pricing of Subordinated Notes Offering

CONWAY, Ark., Jan. 13, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Home BancShares, Inc. (NYSE: HOMB) (“Home” or the “Company”), parent company of Centennial Bank, (“Centennial”), announced today the pricing of $300 million of its 3.125% fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due 2032 (the “Notes”). The Notes will initially bear interest at 3.125% per annum, payable semiannually in arrears, commencing on the issue date, to, but excluding, January 30, 2027. Commencing January 30, 2027, the interest rate on the Notes will reset quarterly to a floating rate per annum equal to a benchmark rate that is expected to be Three-Month Term SOFR (which is defined in the Notes) plus 182 basis points, payable quarterly in arrears. The Company may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part, after January 30, 2027, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes being redeemed plus accrued and unpaid interest. The Notes will mature on January 30, 2032 if they are not earlier redeemed, and are intended to qualify as Tier 2 capital of the Company for regulatory purposes.

The Company expects to close the transaction, subject to customary conditions, on or about January 18, 2022. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of this offering for general corporate purposes, which may include, but are not limited to the repayment of the Company’s outstanding subordinated notes and subordinated debentures, the repayment of outstanding subordinated debentures that the Company would assume following the completion of its acquisition of Happy Bancshares, Inc. (“Happy”), investments at the holding company level, providing capital to support the growth of Centennial Bank and the Company’s business, repurchases of the Company’s common shares and the payment of the cash consideration components of future acquisitions.

Piper Sandler & Co. served as book-running managers for the offering.

Home has filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-261495) (including a base prospectus) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and a preliminary prospectus supplement dated January 13, 2021 relating to this offering with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and it will file a final prospectus supplement relating to the offering of the Notes with the SEC. Prospective investors should read the registration statement (including the base prospectus), the preliminary prospectus supplement and other documents the Company has filed and will file with the SEC that are incorporated by reference into the registration statement and each prospectus supplement for more complete information about the Company and the offering, including the risks associated with the securities and the offering.

This announcement shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any offer or sale of these securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus, copies of which may be obtained from the investor relations section of Home’s Web site at: www.homebancshares.com or from the SEC’s Web site at: www.sec.gov. Alternatively, you may obtain a copy of the prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus for the offering by contacting: Piper Sandler & Co. at [email protected].

General

This release may contain forward-looking statements regarding the Company’s plans, expectations, goals and outlook for the future, as well as statements about the proposed business combination transaction involving Home and Happy and statements regarding the proposed notes offering. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts should be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events, performance or results. When the Company uses words like “may,” “plan,” “propose,” “contemplate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “intend,” “continue,” “expect,” “project,” “predict,” “estimate,” “could,” “should,” “would,” and similar expressions, you should consider them as identifying forward-looking statements, although the Company may use other phrasing. Forward-looking statements of this type speak only as of the date of this news release. By nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risk and uncertainties. Various factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:  economic conditions, credit quality, interest rates, loan demand, real estate values and unemployment; disruptions, uncertainties and related effects on its business and operations as a result of the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and measures that have been or may be implemented or imposed in response to the pandemic, including the impact on, among other things, credit quality and liquidity; the possibility that the proposed acquisition of Happy does not close when expected or at all because required regulatory approvals and other conditions to closing are not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; the possibility that such transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events; the risk that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, ongoing or future effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Home and Happy operate; the ability to promptly and effectively integrate the businesses of Home and Happy; the reaction to the transaction of the companies’ customers, employees and counterparties; diversion of management time on acquisition-related issues; the effect of any future mergers, acquisitions or other transactions to which the Company or its bank subsidiary may from time to time be a party, including as a result of one or more of the factors described above as they would relate to such transaction; the ability to identify, enter into and/or close additional acquisitions; legislative and regulatory changes and risks and expenses associated with current and future legislation and regulations, including those in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; technological changes and cybersecurity risks; the effects of changes in accounting policies and practices; changes in governmental monetary and fiscal policies; political instability; competition from other financial institutions; potential claims, expenses and other adverse effects related to current or future litigation, regulatory examinations or other government actions; changes in the assumptions used in making the forward-looking statements; and other factors described in reports the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including those factors set forth in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, filed with the SEC on February 26, 2021.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Donna Townsell
Director of Investor Relations
Home BancShares, Inc.
(501) 328-4625



Tritium Announces Completion of Business Combination With Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation II

Tritium Announces Completion of Business Combination With Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation II

  • Deal, together with anticipated additional funding, expected to allow Tritium to further its growth in providing leading fast charging hardware and software to EV charging customers.
  • The combined company’s ordinary shares and warrants are expected to commence trading on NASDAQ tomorrow under the ticker symbols “DCFC” and “DCFCW,” respectively.

BRISBANE, Australia & NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Tritium, a global leader in direct current (“DC”) fast chargers for electric vehicles (“EVs”), today announced it has completed its previously announced business combination with Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation II (“DCRN”) to take Tritium DCFC Limited (“Tritium”) public. Tritium’s ordinary shares and warrants are expected to commence trading tomorrow, January 14, 2022, on the NASDAQ, under the ticker symbols “DCFC” and “DCFCW,” respectively.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220113005925/en/

The combined company’s ordinary shares and warrants are expected to commence trading on NASDAQ tomorrow under the ticker symbols “DCFC” and “DCFCW,” respectively. (Photo: Business Wire)

The combined company’s ordinary shares and warrants are expected to commence trading on NASDAQ tomorrow under the ticker symbols “DCFC” and “DCFCW,” respectively. (Photo: Business Wire)

DCRN’s stockholders approved the transaction at a special meeting of stockholders held on January 12, 2022.

“Our transaction with DCRN is transformative for the acceleration of electrification,” said Tritium’s CEO, Jane Hunter. “We expect the capital raised through the transaction, together with anticipated additional funding, to support Tritium’s business operations and to help strengthen our products and services to our customers, and continue to advance the e-mobility industry. The goal in our industry is to reduce global emissions and this transaction will support our mission to electrify transportation.”

As a public company, Tritium’s position as a global leader in DC fast chargers for EVs is further strengthened. Jane Hunter, Chief Executive Officer, will continue to lead Tritium’s operations, alongside co-founders James Kennedy (Chief Technology Officer) and Dr. David Finn (Chief Vision Officer), and executives David Toomey (Chief Strategy Officer) and Michael Hipwood (Chief Financial Officer). As part of the business combination, Robert Tichio, previously the Chairman of the board of directors of DCRN, will join Tritium’s board of directors as Chairman.

“We are extremely pleased to see the completion of this business combination and to support Jane and the Tritium team as they continue to execute on their strategic growth plan as a public company,” said Robert Tichio, incoming Chairman of the board of Tritium.

EV Charging Sector Expected to Experience Significant Growth to 2040 and Beyond

With global EV sales expected to have surpassed 6.3 million last year and with global passenger EV sales expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% through 2040, the world’s transportation is rapidly electrifying. Sufficient public charging infrastructure will be critical to enabling this transition to e-mobility, and fast charging provides the greatest value across the EV charging value chain. Through fast charging, drivers can get back on the road within minutes instead of hours, and charge point operators are able to set prices appropriately for this premium experience.

Transaction Overview

Tritium expects the capital raised through the transaction, together with its anticipated additional funding, to help fund its growth as a technology market leader in the EV charging space, expand to three global manufacturing facilities, grow global sales and service operations teams, maintain its capital needs, and other corporate uses.

Tritium’s board of directors will be comprised of seven members, five of whom are “independent directors” under the applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and NASDAQ. The Board of Directors will be led by incoming Chairman, Robert Tichio.

Advisors

Latham & Watkins LLP (US), Corrs Chambers Westgarth (Australia), and the Australian Partnership of Ernst & Young advised Tritium during the transaction and DCRN was advised by Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. (US) and Clifford Chance LLP (Australia). Credit Suisse served as the exclusive financial advisor to a consortium of certain Tritium Holdings Pty Ltd shareholders in connection with the business combination, and JPMorgan and Citigroup served as financial advisors to DCRN.

About Tritium

Founded in 2001, Tritium (NASDAQ: DCFC; DCFCW) designs and manufactures proprietary hardware and software to create advanced and reliable DC fast chargers for electric vehicles. Tritium’s compact and robust chargers are designed to look great on Main Street and thrive in harsh conditions, through technology engineered to be easy to install, own, and use. Tritium is focused on continuous innovation in support of our customers around the world.

For more information, visit tritiumcharging.com.

About Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation II

Decarbonization Plus Acquisition Corporation II was a blank check company sponsored by an affiliate of Riverstone Holdings LLC and represents a further expansion of Riverstone’s 15-year franchise in low-carbon investments, having established industry leading, scaled companies with more than US$6 billion of equity invested in renewables.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this document are “forward-looking statements” with respect to Tritium’s business and financing plans, the EV market and the business combination, including statements regarding Tritium’s or its management team’s expectations, objectives, beliefs, intentions or future strategies and the listing of Tritium’s securities on the NASDAQ. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “targets,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “future,” “propose,” “strategy,” “opportunity” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) that predict or indicate future events or trends or are not statements of historical matters are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, guarantees, assurances, predictions or definitive statements of fact or probability regarding future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the control of Tritium, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the business combination; the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of Tritium’s shares on the NASDAQ; the risk that the business combination disrupts current plans and operations, business relationships or business generally as a result of the consummation of the business combination; Tritium’s ability to manage growth; Tritium’s ability to execute its business plan and meet its projections; potential disruption in Tritium’s employee retention as a result of the business combination; potential litigation, governmental or regulatory proceedings, investigations or inquiries involving Tritium, including in relation to the business combination; changes in applicable laws or regulations and general economic and market conditions impacting demand for Tritium’s products and services; and other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the business combination, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and in Tritium’s other filings with the SEC. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statement, and Tritium assumes no obligation and does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Tritium does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations.

Tritium Media Contact

Jack Ulrich

[email protected]

Tritium Investors Contact

Caldwell Bailey

ICR, Inc.

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: New York Australia/Oceania Australia United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Technology Engineering Transportation Automotive Manufacturing Other Energy Travel Manufacturing Alternative Vehicles/Fuels Automotive Energy Other Technology Software Hardware Other Manufacturing

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The combined company’s ordinary shares and warrants are expected to commence trading on NASDAQ tomorrow under the ticker symbols “DCFC” and “DCFCW,” respectively. (Photo: Business Wire)

NW Natural Holdings Announces Dividend

NW Natural Holdings Announces Dividend

PORTLAND, Ore.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The Board of Directors of Northwest Natural Holding Company (NYSE: NWN) has declared a quarterly dividend of 48.25 cents per share on the Company’s common stock.

The dividend will be paid on Feb. 15, 2022 to shareholders of record on Jan. 31, 2022. The Company’s indicated annual dividend rate is $1.93 per share.

About NW Natural Holdings

Northwest Natural Holding Company, (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and has been doing business for more than 160 years. It owns Northwest Natural Gas Company (NW Natural), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), NW Natural Renewables Holdings (NW Natural Renewables), and other business interests.

NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides natural gas service to approximately 2.5 million people in more than 140 communities through more than 780,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural consistently leads the industry with high J.D. Power & Associates customer satisfaction scores. NW Natural owns and operates 20 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon.

NW Natural Water provides water distribution and wastewater services to communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and Texas. With all pending acquisitions closed, NW Natural Water will serve approximately 140,000 people through over 58,000 connections. Learn more about our water business at nwnaturalwater.com.

Additional information is available at nwnaturalholdings.com.

Investor Contact: Nikki Sparley

Phone: 503-721-2530

Email: [email protected]

KEYWORDS: Oregon United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Energy Utilities Oil/Gas

MEDIA:

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SAP announces share repurchase program to service future share-based compensation awards

PR Newswire

WALLDORF, Germany, Jan. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — SAP (NYSE: SAP) today announced a new share repurchase program. The program, with a volume of up to €1 billion, is planned to be executed in the period between February 01 and December 31, 2022. It will be implemented based on the authorization granted by the Annual General Meeting of SAP SE on May 17, 2018, and in compliance with the restrictions set forth therein.

Repurchased shares will primarily be used to service future awards granted under the ′Move SAP′ share-based compensation plan.

′Move SAP′ is SAP’s long-term employee incentivization and retention plan. It is aimed at rewarding employees who provide a significant impact to business success. The plan accounted for the majority of SAP’s 2018 – 2020 share-based compensation expenses. Under its previous policy, SAP serviced obligations arising from the plan with cash payments but has now decided to settle future awards predominantly in shares.

Obligations from outstanding ′Move SAP′ awards will continue to be serviced with cash payments and the settlement methods of SAP’s other share-based compensation programs remain unchanged.

SAP CFO Luka Mucic said: “By settling our share-based compensation predominantly in shares rather than cash payments for new awards issued from 2022 onwards, we intend to further strengthen our employee ownership culture and ensure employees’ interests are closely aligned with those of our shareholders.”  

The new share repurchase program follows SAP’s 2020 repurchase of around 14 million shares for about €1.5 billion.

More information on the ′Move SAP′ plan can be found in section B.3 (Share-Based Payments) of SAP’s 2020 Integrated Report.

About SAP  

SAP’s strategy is to help every business run as an intelligent enterprise. As a market leader in enterprise application software, we help companies of all sizes and in all industries run at their best: SAP customers generate 87% of total global commerce. Our machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics technologies help turn customers’ businesses into intelligent enterprises. SAP helps give people and organizations deep business insight and fosters collaboration that helps them stay ahead of their competition. We simplify technology for companies so they can consume our software the way they want – without disruption. Our end-to-end suite of applications and services enables business and public customers across 25 industries globally to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and make a difference. With a global network of customers, partners, employees, and thought leaders, SAP helps the world run better and improve people’s lives. For more information, visit www.sap.com.

Follow SAP Investor Relations on Twitter at @sapinvestor.

This document contains forward-looking statements, which are predictions, projections, or other statements about future events. These statements are based on current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to materially differ. Additional information regarding these risks and uncertainties may be found in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to the risk factors section of SAP’s 2020 Annual Report on Form 20-F.

© 2022 SAP SE. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or for any purpose without the express permission of SAP SE. The information contained herein may be changed without prior notice.

Some software products marketed by SAP SE and its distributors contain proprietary software components of other software vendors. National product specifications may vary.

These materials are provided by SAP SE and its affiliated companies (“SAP Group”) for informational purposes only, without representation or warranty of any kind, and SAP Group shall not be liable for errors or omissions with respect to the materials. The only warranties for SAP Group products and services are those that are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services, if any. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.

SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE (or an SAP affiliate company) in Germany and other countries. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies. Please see www.sap.com/about/legal/copyright.html for additional trademark information and notice.

 

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SOURCE SAP SE

Enbridge Inc. to Host Webcast to Discuss 2021 Fourth Quarter and Full-Year Results on Feb. 11

PR Newswire

CALGARY, AB, Jan. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ – Enbridge Inc. (TSX: ENB) (NYSE: ENB) (Enbridge or the Company) will host a conference call and webcast to provide a business update and review 2021 fourth quarter and full-year results on Feb. 11, 2022 at 7:00 a.m. MT (9:00 a.m. ET).

The conference call format will include prepared remarks from the executive team followed by a question and answer session for the analyst and investor community only. Enbridge’s media and investor relations teams will be available after the call for any additional questions.

Enbridge will announce its financial results before markets open on Feb. 11, 2022.

2021 Fourth Quarter Earnings Webcast and Conference Call

Details of the webcast

When:

Friday, Feb.11, 2022

7:00 a.m. MT (9:00 a.m. ET)

Webcast:


Sign-up

Call:

Dial-in (Audio only – please dial in 15 minutes ahead):

North America Toll Free:

(833) 233-4460

Outside North America:

(647) 689-4543

Conference ID:

6486063

A webcast replay, as well as a transcript which will be posted to Enbridge’s website, will be available shortly after the conclusion of the event.


About Enbridge Inc.


Enbridge Inc. is a leading North American energy infrastructure company. We safely and reliably deliver the energy people need and want to fuel quality of life. Our core businesses include Liquids Pipelines, which transports approximately 25 percent of the crude oil produced in North America; Gas Transmission and Midstream, which transports approximately 20 percent of the natural gas consumed in the U.S.; Gas Distribution and Storage, which serves approximately 3.8 million retail customers in Ontario and Quebec; and Renewable Power Generation, which owns approximately 1,766 megawatts (net) in renewable power generation capacity in North America and Europe. The Company’s common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under the symbol ENB. For more information, visit

www.enbridge.com

.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 

Media
Toll Free: (888) 992-0997
Email: [email protected]

Investment Community

Toll Free: (800) 481-2804
Email: [email protected]

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SOURCE Enbridge Inc.