Market Newsdesk

MEXICO CITY
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Vista Energy, S.A.B. de C.V. (“Vista”) (NYSE: VIST in the New York Stock Exchange; BMV: VISTA in the Mexican Stock Exchange) announced today that its subsidiary Vista Energy Argentina S.A.U (“Vista Argentina”) has acquired 100% of the capital stock of Petronas E&P Argentina S.A. (“PEPASA”), which holds a 50% working interest in La Amarga Chica unconventional concession (“LACh”), located in Vaca Muerta, Argentina, from Petronas Carigali Canada B.V. and Petronas Carigali International E&P B.V. (jointly, the “Sellers”) (the “Transaction”). The purchase price is comprised of US$ 900 million in cash, US$ 300 million in deferred cash payments and 7,297,507 American Depositary Shares representing Vista’s series A shares (“ADSs”) paid to the Sellers and subject to lock-up restrictions that will expire (i) with respect to 50% of the ADSs on October 15, 2025, and (ii) with respect to the remaining 50% of the ADSs on April 15, 2026. The deferred cash payments will be paid 50% on April 15, 2029, and 50% on April 15, 2030, without accruing interest.

LACh spans across 46,594 acres in the black oil window of Vaca Muerta. As of December 31, 2024, it had 247 wells on production. In addition, as of December 31, 2023, LACh had 280 million barrels of oil equivalent (“MMboe”) of P1 reserves according to the Argentine Secretary of Energy (at 100% working interest). During the fourth quarter of 2024, LACh produced 79,543 barrels of oil equivalent per day (“boe/d”) at 100% working interest, of which 71,471 barrels per day (“bbl/d”) were oil, according to the Argentine Secretary of Energy. Vista estimates LACh could potentially hold 400 new well locations to be drilled in its inventory (at 100% working interest). The remaining 50% of LACh is held by YPF S.A. (“YPF”), which is the operator of the concession.

Miguel Galuccio, Vista’s Chairman and CEO, commented, “With this acquisition we gain significant scale in Vaca Muerta with a premium block that has growing production and low operating costs, enabling the acceleration of our long-term plan and strengthening our free-cashflow profile. The acquisition both increases our profitability and enhances our portfolio of ready-to-drill locations in the core area of Vaca Muerta. Importantly, in the current global macro and oil price environment we are consolidating a high-margin, low-breakeven asset, with strong synergies with our ongoing operation, reflecting our constructive long-term view on crude oil demand and supply dynamics. I firmly believe this represents a unique opportunity to create long-term value for our shareholders.”

Transaction highlights

• Highly accretive acquisition for our shareholders, comparing implied EV/EBITDA, EV/flowing barrels, EV/P1 reserves and price-to-earnings (P/E) metrics to Vista metrics;
• Low-cost, high-margin, high-return, cashflow-generating asset, as LACh’s lifting cost, Adjusted EBITDA margin and Return on Average Capital Employed are in line with Vista’s operating and financial metrics for the year 2024, whilst supporting our path to positive free-cashflow generation;
• Increased scale, as Vista consolidates through PEPASA an oil and gas production volume that is approximately 47% of its Q4-24 production, leading to a pro forma total production of 125,048 boe/d for Q4-24;
• Portfolio enhancement, with an estimated inventory of 200 ready-to-drill wells at Vista’s 50% working interest in the core of Vaca Muerta, and geographically located next to Vista’s development hub;
• Operating synergies based on the proximity of LACh to Vista’s development hub, which could translate into potential savings related to sharing surface facilities, optimizing well placement close to the limits between LACh and Vista’s development hub, streamlining new well design and sharing general services;
• Significant oil midstream capacity is consolidated through the acquisition, as PEPASA has approximately 57,000 bbl/d transportation capacity and 48,000 bbl/d export dispatch capacity in several key midstream projects.

In order to carry out the Transaction, own funds and funds from the Transaction financing were used, consisting of a credit agreement between Vista Argentina as borrower and Banco Santander, S.A. as lender, for a total amount of US$ 300 million. This credit agreement has a term of four years.

PEPASA key facts

PEPASA is a company incorporated under the laws of Argentina and founded in 2014. PEPASA’s main asset is a 50% working interest in the unconventional hydrocarbons concession La Amarga Chica, located in the Vaca Muerta play in the Neuquina Basin, Argentina. For the development of the asset, PEPASA entered into a joint venture with YPF, the operator of the concession. The LACh unconventional concession expires in December 2049.

Driven by oil and gas production from La Amarga Chica block, during 2024, PEPASA’s total revenues were US$ 909 million¹. In addition, Adj. EBITDA of PEPASA during 2024 was US$ 667 million, leading to an Adj. EBITDA margin of 73%. Net profit for the period was US$ 349 million for the fiscal year 2024.

In addition, PEPASA has secured the following transportation and dispatch capacity in key oil midstream infrastructure:

• In the Oldelval pipelines: a total of 36,140 bbl/d comprised of (i) open access capacity for 18,806 bbl/d and (ii) contracted transportation capacity in Duplicar for 17,334 bbl/d;
• In the Vaca Muerta Norte pipeline: contracted transportation capacity of 20,756 bbl/d;
• In the OTE terminal: a total export dispatch capacity of 27,080 bbl/d.

La Amarga Chica key stats (Q4-24)²

About Vista

Vista is an oil and gas company fully focused on the Vaca Muerta play located in the Neuquina Basin, Argentina. Founded in 2017, it is currently listed on the Bolsa Mexicana de Valores (Ticker: VISTA) and the New York Stock Exchange (Ticker: VIST). According to the Argentine Secretary of Energy, during 2024 Vista was the second largest oil producer In Vaca Muerta, and the third largest oil producer of Argentina. Vista constitutes a unique pure play public investment opportunity in Vaca Muerta.

Unaudited pro forma consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2024 (US$ thousand):

Reconciliation of pro forma Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2024
(US$ thousand):

Forward Looking Statements

Any statements contained herein or in the attachments hereto regarding Vista or any of its subsidiaries that are not historical or current facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements convey Vista’s current expectations or forecasts of future events. Vista undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated events. Forward-looking statements regarding Vista involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Vista’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are described in the “Risk Factors,” “Forward-Looking Statements” and other applicable sections of Vista’s annual report filed with the SEC on Form 20-F and other applicable filings with the SEC and Vista’s latest annual report available on the Mexican Stock Exchange’s (Bolsa Mexicana de Valores, S.A.B. de C.V.) website: www.bmv.com.mx, the Mexican National Banking and Securities Commission’s (Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores) website: www.gob.mx/cnbv and our website: www.vistaenergy.com.

Enquiries:

Investor Relations:
[email protected]
Argentina: +54 11 3754 8500
Mexico: +52 55 1555 7104

¹ Financial performance figures in this paragraph based on Unaudited pro forma consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2024, shown below.
² Except P1 Reserves, which are stated as of December 31, 2023, according to filing with the Argentine Secretary of Energy, and lifting cost, which is stated for FY-2024

 

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SOURCE Vista Energy, S.A.B. de C.V.

The Crown Royal Rig took over Nashville for a weekend of country music, generosity and to raise a glass to the nation’s heroes

NEW YORK
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Award-winning whisky Crown Royal partnered with multi-platinum country music artist Kane Brown for a second year, returning as the Official Whisky Sponsor of the North American leg of the superstar’s The High Road Tour.

This past weekend, The Crown Royal Rig touched down in Nashville timed to Kane Brown’s tour stop in the Music City! The brand toasted to the partnership and brought the spirit of generosity to life through a series of elevated experiences. The weekend began with a backstage VIP takeover where guests 21+ were invited to receive exclusive concert merch, enjoy Kane Brown’s signature Crown Royal cocktails, the Crown Royal Ranch Waterand the Blackberry Ginger Lemonade, and meet the star before he hit the stage. Broadway-goers 21+ had a chance to capture a photo with the Crown Royal Rig and grab official merch as they enjoyed a night on the town. The celebration culminated at long-time brand partner CreatiVets’ 5th Annual Golf Tournament, where Crown Royal honored veterans alongside celebrity golfers.

The Crown Royal Rig is officially joining the country music star on the road, taking the partnership with Kane Brown to the next level! The larger-than-life-18-wheeler will pull up to select U.S. cities on the tour schedule, to share the spirit of generosity. Fans 21+ will be invited to participate in the Purple Bag Project†, an initiative dedicated to turning donated Crown Royal bags into care packages for active serving military around the world.

“Crown Royal shares many of the values I hold close to my heart, especially when it comes to giving back to the military community,” Brown shared. “I am proud to continue my partnership with the brand and I’m excited to be back on the road, alongside The Crown Royal Rig, making this partnership even bigger in year two!”

The whisky brand also relaunched the CROWN ROYAL SUMMER SESSIONS CONTEST.* With thousands of nominations in its inaugural year, the 2025 contest has expanded by inviting fans to nominate not only military veterans, but also those (25+) who donated their time to military-related charities. Two winners and their guests (the persons who nominated them) will be invited to enjoy an intimate performance with Brown later this summer. For every valid nomination, Crown Royal will donate $1 to CreatiVets, a nonprofit organization that helps veterans heal through music and the arts. Since the start of their partnership nearly three years ago, Crown Royal has spearheaded efforts to raise over $370,000 in support of the CreatiVets’ cause. ‡

“Country music and whisky are the perfect pair and we’re happy to provide a platform for fans to give back to the military community while enjoying music they love!” said Hadley Schafer, Vice President of Crown Royal. “We’re proud to have long standing relationships with organizations like CreatiVets and Packages From Home, that support those who have served our country. And with Kane Brown by our side for the second year, we’re excited to give back in an even more impactful way!”

Crown Royal’s three-year partnership with CreatiVets underscores its broader commitment to giving back to both military and country music fans. Crown Royal is woven into the fabric of country music. From long-standing partnerships with the CMA Awards to collaborations with rising stars and superstars like Kane Brown, Nate Smith and Tanner Adell, the brand has become an integral part of the genre’s rich tapestry.

Crown Royal reminds everyone 21+ that living generously is not about what you have, but about what you give. And, most importantly, to always drink responsibly.

†The Purple Bag Project is an initiative of Packages From Home whereby volunteers assemble care packages and Packages From Home distributes the assembled care packages without fee to troops; Packages From Home will determine the destination and recipient of each care package. Packages From Home, 5643 N. 52^nd Ave., Glendale, AZ 85201/www.packagesfromhome.org/623.934.3274.

‡NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. U.S., 25 yrs. or older. Nominee: honorably discharged U.S. Military Veteran or Volunteer who donated their time to IRS 501c3 Military-related charity. Void where prohibited. Contest starts 3/1/2025 and ends 8/15/2025. Nominator enters at summersessions.crownroyal.com by completing entry form with nomination. No self-nominations; Nominator must secure Nominee’s consent beforehand. Nomination must be truthful. (2) Winners selected based on judges’ assessment of strength of nomination including Nominees’ alignment with values of CROWN ROYAL brand. Nominator and Nominee must be available to attend event in 8/2025 or 9/2025. ALCOHOL NOT PART OF PRIZE. Subject to Official Rules at website. Sponsor: Diageo Americas, Inc., New York, NY.

About Crown Royal

Crown Royal Canadian Whisky is the number-one selling Canadian whisky brand in the world and has a tradition as long and distinctive as its taste. Specially blended to commemorate a grand tour of Canada made by the King and Queen of Great Britain in 1939, Crown Royal’s smooth and elegant flavor was an exceptionally generous gift fit for royalty. Its gift-worthy presentation reflects its regal origins – it is considered the epitome of Canadian whisky. For more information, visit crownroyal.com. Crown Royal encourages all consumers to please enjoy responsibly.

About Diageo North America

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow on Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

About CreatiVets

CreatiVets’ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide wounded veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury with opportunities to use art, music, and creative writing to heal their unseen wounds of war. Their goal is to empower veterans with tools they can use for the rest of their lives and enable them to see their own capacity for success in an arena outside the battlefield. Learn more at creativets.org.

About Packages From Home
Packages From Home is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing care and comfort packages to U.S. military members deployed or stationed overseas, as well as facilitating activities that boost the morale of all veterans. Since our founding in 2004, we have served over 5 million military members and veterans, with a vision to reach 10 million by 2030. As we celebrate our 20th year in operation, our mission is stronger than ever, fueled by the support of individuals, corporations, and community groups who are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who serve. Whether it’s through our care packages, veteran appreciation activities, or sponsored events, Packages From Home remains steadfast in honoring the sacrifices of our military and veteran communities. Learn more at www.packagesfromhome.org

Media Contacts

Jazmine Settles, Diageo
[email protected]

Taylor PR


[email protected]

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SOURCE Crown Royal

No. 1 Flooring Franchise in North America Enhances Leadership Bench with Seasoned Franchise Development Experts

ATLANTA
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Floor Coverings International® (FCI), the No. 1 flooring franchise in North America, known for its locally owned Mobile Flooring Showrooms® and knowledgeable teams of trusted professionals, bolsters its leadership team with a new hire and internal promotions. FCI welcomes Hayden Shaw as Director of Franchise Development, and promotes Albert Hermans to Chief Development Officer, Grant Carter to Divisional Vice President – Startup, Katie Pynnonen to Senior Director of Brand Marketing, and Joe Benincasa to Divisional Senior Director of Operations.

This news comes on the heels of Floor Coverings International’s continued franchise development success, specifically breaking records with growth and securing, once again, the No. 1 spot in the flooring category on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500. With a goal to reach 340 operating franchisees by the end of the year, the brand has already made headway, with 14 new signed agreements in various stages of development.

Executive Moves

• 
  Albert Hermans
  began his career with FCI in 2015, initially serving on the Operations Team, working closely with franchisees to optimize business performance and streamline operations. In 2020, he transitioned to the Franchise Development Team, leveraging his hands-on operational experience to guide prospective franchisees through the process of business ownership. As CDO, his focus is on expanding FCI’s franchise network, and ensuring that every franchisee is supported in scaling their business.
• 
  Grant Carter
  has been with FCI since 2023, starting out as the Senior Director of Operations for New Franchise Development, where he worked with new franchisees to develop and strategically grow their businesses. This year, he was appointed Divisional Vice President – Startup within the New Franchise Development Program at FCI. Under his leadership, the Startup team provides world class training and high-touch operational support and coaching for the brand’s newest franchise owners.
• 
  Hayden Shaw
  began his franchising career in 2019, specializing in franchise development marketing for emerging brands. In 2020, he transitioned to a franchise sales role with Authority Brands. This year, Shaw joined FCI as the Director of Franchise Development, drawn to the brand’s core values: delivering on promises, respecting individuals, taking pride in one’s work, staying open to new possibilities, and committing to continuous improvement. As he integrates into FCI’s system and culture, his main focus is on attracting top-tier franchisees whose vision and goals align with the brand’s mission.
• 
  Katie Pynnonen
  began her career with FCI in 2017 as a Growth Marketing Manager. She quickly moved through the ranks focusing on FCI’s brand marketing strategies and lead generation. In 2023 she became the Director of Brand Marketing, and in December of 2024 she was promoted to her current role as Senior Director of Brand Marketing. Katie is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of integrated marketing strategies, aiming to enhance brand visibility, drive customer engagement, and support the franchise network’s growth.
• 
  Joe Benincasa
  began his career with FCI in 2019, initially serving as the brand’s Director of Operations. Prior to FCI, Joe was a General Manager at Lowe’s for nine years, then a General Manager at Micro Center for nine years. This year, he was appointed as Divisional Senior Director of Operations at FCI, where he will be responsible for overseeing franchisee operations and ensuring efficiency.

“FCI is constantly evolving as we scale to maintain our position as the leading flooring franchise in North America,” said Tom Wood, CEO of FCI. “Promoting Albert, Grant, Katie, and Joe, and bringing Hayden on were strategic decisions to strengthen our leadership team and provide experienced guidance across the system. Their values, expertise, and work ethic align with our vision for the brand, and we are confident in their ability to attract qualified entrepreneurs who will deliver exceptional home improvement services to our network.”

Floor Coverings International’s unique business model of offering personalized in-home experiences with mobile showrooms has set it apart from the competition. With total investment costs ranging from $183,000 to $247,000*, and hundreds of prime territories available, Floor Coverings International’s affordable and scalable opportunity is for entrepreneurs looking to make a lasting impact in their communities. When franchisees invest with FCI, they’re investing in an organization with a strong culture, solid systems, and a proven business model backed with 30-plus years of experience in providing exceptional customer service.

According to Floor Coverings International’s Franchise Disclosure Document, the top 50 percent of operators generated $1.6 million in average revenue in 2024 with the top 10 percent operators grossing $3.1 million in average unit volume**.

For more information about the franchise opportunity, please visit https://flooring-franchise.com/ or call 877-559-3496.

About Floor Coverings International

Floor Coverings International is the #1 Mobile Flooring franchise in North America. Utilizing a unique in-home experience, the mobile showroom comes directly to the customer’s door with more than 3,000 flooring choices. Floor Coverings International has 270-plus locations throughout the U.S. and Canada with plenty of opportunity for continued expansion. For franchise information, please visit https://flooring-franchise.com/ and to find your closest location go to www.floorcoveringsinternational.com.

*See Item 7 of our current Franchise Disclosure Document for more information and context about the initial investment.

*Please see Item 19 of the current Franchise Disclosure Document for more information. Results may differ. There is no assurance that any franchisee will perform as well.

Media Contact:
Bianca Thiros, Fishman Public Relations, 847-945-1300, or [email protected]  

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SOURCE Floor Coverings International

Insurance provider expands Motor Truck Cargo coverage to offer broader protection

MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Progressive Insurance today announced the launch of Cargo Plus, a new endorsement that expands Motor Truck Cargo coverage purchased by for-hire truckers and other eligible customers.

Motor Truck Cargo coverage offers protection in the event a trucker is legally liable for damage to covered property while in the trucker’s exclusive physical custody and control. The new Cargo Plus endorsement protects truckers by expanding coverage for perils attributed to wetness, rust, and corrosion, and covers perils attributed to driver error and changes in temperature on refrigerated loads for customers that purchase Refrigeration Breakdown coverage.

The Cargo Plus endorsement is automatically included on new Progressive policies with Motor Truck Cargo coverage. Existing Progressive customers with Motor Truck Cargo or Refrigeration Breakdown coverage can immediately benefit from enhanced coverage under Cargo Plus prior to renewal.

With Cargo Plus, Progressive is delivering additional protection to for-hire truckers with Motor Truck Cargo coverage to help them move forward with the confidence of knowing they’ve got the coverage they need. For-hire truckers carry Motor Truck Cargo coverage to protect the goods they are transporting, making it an important part of securing loads with brokers and shippers.

“As the #1 truck insurer in America*, we take pride in delivering solutions that meet the needs of our trucking customers. We routinely evaluate areas where we can enhance our product to become a destination for truck insurance, and the new Cargo Plus endorsement advances that goal,” said Peter Niro, Truck Product Development Manager at Progressive. “Our trucking customers rely on Progressive Commercial for a broad range of insurance solutions, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service. The new Cargo Plus endorsement allows us to better serve the coverage needs of our trucking customers.”

As of today, April 16, eligible Progressive customers in the following 42 states can benefit from the new Cargo Plus coverage: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, WA, WI, WV, and WY.

Subject to regulatory approval, Progressive plans to have the Cargo Plus endorsement available in 49 states by May 21, 2025, and in all states by the end of 2025. Refrigeration Breakdown coverage is not available for policies written in CA and FL.

*No. 1 truck insurer from S&P Global Market Intelligence 2023 national written premium data.

Truck is classified as all For Hire Specialty (FHS) vehicles, all For Hire Transportation (FHT) vehicles, and all vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) greater than 16,000 lbs. for Tow, Contractors, and Business Auto.

About Progressive

Progressive Insurance^® makes it easy to understand, buy and use car insurance, home insurance, and other protection needs. Progressive offers choices so consumers can reach us however it’s most convenient for them — online at progressive.com, by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, via the Progressive mobile app, or in-person with a local agent.

Progressive provides insurance for personal and commercial autos and trucks, motorcycles, boats, recreational vehicles, and homes; it is the second largest personal auto insurer in the country, a leading seller of commercial auto, motorcycle, and boat insurance, and one of the top 15 homeowners insurance carriers.

Founded in 1937, Progressive continues its long history of offering shopping tools and services that save customers time and money, like Name Your Price^®, Snapshot^®, and HomeQuote Explorer^®.

The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, trade publicly at NYSE: PGR.

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SOURCE Progressive Insurance

New Creative Highlights Lagavulin’s Legacy and Invites Drinkers to Experience Its Versatility Across Occasions and Drinks Formats

ISLAY, Scotland, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lagavulin Single Malt Scotch Whisky, the definitive Islay Single Malt, is unveiling its new Beyond the Smoke marketing campaign designed to redefine perceptions of Scotch and inspire discerning whisky drinkers to explore the many dimensions that make the spirit legendary. While known for its iconic peaty character, Lagavulin transcends its signature smokiness, revealing layers of complexity beyond the taste profile for which it is known. Lagavulin 16 Year Old, the brand’s renowned signature marque recognized with a Platinum award at the 2024 San Francisco Wine and Spirits Awards, continues to set the standard for quality. Beyond the Smoke is an invitation to experience the whisky as a catalyst for curiosity, sparking exploration and igniting a path to discover the many ways to enjoy it.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/diageo/9329951-en-lagavulin-single-malt-scotch-whisky-launches-beyond-the-smoke-campaign

The Beyond the Smoke campaign was created in partnership with Uncommon Creative Studio and features a suite of work that brings Lagavulin’s legacy to life by blending its rich heritage with moments of discovery. The hero spot, directed by MIKE+JIM from Art Practice, uses a single shot to go from a Brooklyn bar to the brand’s distillery on Islay—recreated as a bespoke diorama (an exact replica) of the brand’s Scotland home by MUTABOR Practical Effects—to a dinner at home and a New York rooftop, showcasing how Lagavulin’s smoky character seamlessly flows into a sophisticated, modern lifestyle. While smoke ties the story together, shifting from subtle to bold just as the whisky evolves on the palate, the story transcends the smoke, reflecting Lagavulin’s influence in contemporary culture and its growing role in the evolving ways whisky is enjoyed today—from classic pours to inventive cocktail serves.

Another key element in the storytelling that connects the Lagavulin brand’s past with its present is the film’s voiceover by longtime creative partner Nick Offerman. Offerman’s ethereal narration breathes life into the creative, blending visuals with his signature poetic style, vocal timbre and singular message-—a call to viewers to boldly pursue lesser-known paths in their enjoyment of Lagavulin and beyond. From the timeless classic, neat or on the rocks, to adventurous cocktails, there is more to discover beyond the smoke in every way Lagavulin can be enjoyed. Overall, the campaign highlights the versatility of Lagavulin, showcasing just a few of the countless serves and places where it can be enjoyed and explored.

“Lagavulin is more than just a smoky whisky; it evolves with every sip,” said Jesse Damashek, Senior Vice President of Whiskey at Diageo. “While our smoky character – from Islay’s signature use of peat – defines Lagavulin, it’s the depth of this whisky that sets it apart. Beyond the Smoke invites people to explore the layers that lie beyond the initial taste and discover the full spectrum of how it can be enjoyed. Whether sipped in a dram during a quiet moment in a cozy cocktail bar or amidst the energy of a dinner party within a Spicy Margarita, Single Malt Whisky is not one-dimensional and we wanted to bring that to life with this new campaign.”

For over two centuries, the Lagavulin Distillery has stood at the heart of Islay, an island in the Western Hebrides of Scotland steeped in history, where whisky-making is a central part of the local culture. In recent years, Islay’s whisky scene has experienced a renaissance, with new generations and demographics of distillers embracing the craft while continuing to push boundaries. Today, Lagavulin represents both heritage and innovation—an evolution in how whisky is both made and enjoyed. Lagavulin is often enjoyed in its purest form—neat or on the rocks—where its smoky character and rich depth shine. Its versatility also lends itself to elevated cocktails, like the Spicy Margarita, which replaces mezcal with Lagavulin 16 Year Old, or the beloved Smokey Cokey, blending the whisky’s peaty depth with cola’s sweetness.

To introduce Lagavulin to new audiences, the brand is partnering with Racquet, a tennis magazine known for its cultural perspective on the sport, and Highsnobiety, a fashion publication that blends streetwear, luxury and pop culture. By working with brands and personalities who embody the spirit of Beyond the Smoke, Lagavulin brings the whisky to moments that push boundaries and invite discovery—where new layers of flavor and connection unfold. Lagavulin is proving that Scotch is not relegated to a fixed setting or audience, but can be appreciated by all who are curious.

Whether toasting a hard-fought match that went to six games, celebrating a feat of design at New York Fashion Week or enjoying Lagavulin with dinner in a hidden downtown bar, these partnerships demonstrate that Lagavulin fits seamlessly into modern, meaningful and varied experiences. Collaborations like these are central to Lagavulin’s mission of making Scotch Whisky more approachable by challenging traditional perceptions of whisky.

Beyond the Smoke will be amplified across various media channels inclusive of social media, digital streaming platforms, print, and various publishers digitally – bringing Lagavulin’s character and complexity to a national audience.

Lagavulin encourages those who are of legal drinking age to please drink responsibly. For more information about Lagavulin Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky and the distillery, visit www.malts.com/en-row/distilleries/lagavulin/ or follow us on Instagram at @lagavulinwhisky. To try the full line from Lagavulin including our beloved core whiskies and our limited-time innovations, visit https://www.reservebar.com/collections/lagavulin.

Contact:
HUNTER
[email protected]

ABOUT DIAGEO

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

Follow us on Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

 

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SOURCE DIAGEO

Analysis shows increasing parity in digital banking performance over the last six years

PLANO, Texas
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alkami Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALKT) (“Alkami”), a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the U.S., announced today the release of its latest research in partnership with Cornerstone Advisors. The 2025 Digital Banking Performance Metrics Report is compiled from self-reported data collected in fiscal year 2024 from a sample of banks and credit unions with an average asset size of $4.7 billion.

Now in its sixth year, the report equips banks and credit unions with critical intelligence to evaluate and benchmark their digital banking performance. This year’s edition marks a significant evolution in the research analysis. While previous reports segmented financial institutions into performance tiers – high performers, middle performers, and lower performers – the 2025 report reveals a growing parity in digital performance across the industry. In response, the report is constructed with a percentile-based benchmarking framework, offering performance data by the 75th percentile, median, 25th percentile, and overall averages.

“The metrics in this report are intended to give executives perspective on the industry’s—and their own—digital banking performance,” said Ron Shevlin, chief research officer at Cornerstone Advisors. “Banks and credit unions are starting to see that digital is impacting bottom-line results beyond these metrics, and this report gives leadership the foundational data to build out their overall digital strategy cross-functionally,” he continued.

Key findings from the report in the areas of digital features and utilization, digital investments, and digital banking operations include:

• Participating financial institutions providing metrics on live chat activity have grown 61% from 2022.
• Average bill pay adoption increased in 2024, rising to 35% from 29% in the previous two years.
• Active person-to-person (P2P) payment users as a percentage of digital banking users saw strong growth in 2024, increasing 8 percentage points to 34%.
• Digital checking account openings as a percentage of total checking account openings increased in 2024 to 21% from 16% the previous year.
• The average number of monthly transactions among consumers using their financial institution’s mobile payment capabilities increased nearly 23% in 2024 from the previous year.

To join us for an exclusive webinar on April 30th at 12pm CT to dive deeper into the report’s findings and insights, register here.

To learn more about The 2025 Digital Banking Performance Metrics Report, click here.

Alkami has been certified by J.D. Power in 2024 and 2025 for providing “An Outstanding Mobile Banking Platform Experience.”¹

About Alkami


Alkami Technology, Inc.
 is a leading cloud-based digital banking solutions provider for financial institutions in the United States that enables clients to grow confidently, adapt quickly, and build thriving digital communities. Alkami helps clients transform through retail and business banking, digital account opening, payment security, and data and marketing solutions. To learn more, visit www.alkami.com.

Media Relations Contacts
Vested
[email protected] 

Marla Pieton

[email protected] 

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SOURCE Alkami Technology, Inc.

SINGAPORE
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — X3 Holdings Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: XTKG) (the “Company” or “XTKG”), a global provider of digital solutions and technology services spanning diverse industries, today announced that the Company received a written notification (the “Compliance Notice”) from the Listing Qualifications Department of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) dated April 11, 2025, informing the Company that it has regained compliance with the Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) (“Minimum Bid Price Requirement”) and the matter is closed.

As previously announced, the Company received a notification letter from the Nasdaq dated April 10, 2024, indicating its failure to maintain a minimum bid price of US$1.00 per share for 30 consecutive business days under Minimum Bid Price Requirement. Pursuant to the Nasdaq Listing Rules 5810(c)(3)(A), the Company was provided with 180 calendar days, and has further received an extension of 180 calendar days, to April 7, 2025, in order to regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement.

Pursuant to the Compliance Notice, the Company evidenced a closing bid price of its ordinary shares at or greater than US$1.00 per share for 10 consecutive business days from March 17, 2025 to April 11, 2025. Thus, the Company has regained compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement, and the matter is closed.

About X3 Holdings

X3 Holdings Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: XTKG) is a global provider of digital solutions and technology services spanning diverse industries. The Company is operating across diversified business segments in digital technologies, cryptomining operations, renewable energy and agriculture technologies. X3 Holdings is headquartered in Singapore with subsidiaries and operations globally. For additional information, please visit www.x3holdings.com. 

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties. The reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission discuss these and other important factors and risks that may affect the Company’s business, results of operations and financial conditions. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Investor Relations
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.x3holdings.com 

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SOURCE X3 Holdings Co., Ltd.

New report features latest trends in 401(k) plan design and participant behavior, based on the firm’s recordkeeping client data for 2024

BALTIMORE
, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — T. Rowe Price, a global investment management firm and leader in retirement today published its annual benchmarking report on 401(k) plan design and participant behavior, and found the average loan size grew by 4%, slightly higher than inflation in 2024. Participants across all age groups saw increases in average loan size, including those closer to retirement age, suggesting that financial wellness challenges are not felt solely by younger age groups. Loan usage also saw an uptick, increasing by two points since 2023, but remains below the 2015 to 2019 highs.

Meanwhile, data from a financial wellness questionnaire, hosted by T. Rowe Price for its 401(k) participants, found that 64% of respondents are unable to cover six months’ worth of expenses. Those who said they did not have six months of emergency savings were also two times more likely to have taken a loan.

“With rising inflation, market volatility, and ongoing economic shifts, the importance of emergency savings funds and financial wellness programs becomes even more clear,” said Francisco Negrón, head of Retirement Plan Services at T. Rowe Price. “Plan sponsors play a critical role, especially under these circumstances, and can have a direct impact on the financial security of their employees.”

Additional key findings include:

• Participants who engage with financial wellness resources and retirement income tools, like T. Rowe Price’s Retirement Income Planner or Social Security Optimizer, tend to demonstrate stronger savings behavior.
• Participants invested solely in a target date product are 20 times less likely to make an exchange and even when they do, 84% of them exchange into another target date fund.
• Twenty-three percent of participants aged 63 and older are currently invested in different target years than the assumed retirement age of 65. As participants age, an increasing percent are invested in a fund with a target date year other than the assumed retirement age of 65, illustrating a potential need for more personalized target date solutions.
• Fifty-five percent of retirement age participants leave the plan within four years of termination and another roughly 20% leave in the following five years. Meanwhile, 50% of plan sponsors prefer their participants keep their defined contribution plan balances in-plan when they retire. More plan sponsors are starting to offer solutions to better accommodate retirees and have expressed interest in implementing retirement income solutions.

Negrón adds, “Our purpose in delivering this report is simple: to equip plan sponsors and financial consultants with the insights they need to improve the financial futures of their participants. Ultimately, T. Rowe Price is dedicated to helping every participant get on the path toward better retirement outcomes, because everyone deserves to feel confident about their financial future.”

ABOUT T. ROWE PRICE

Founded in 1937, T. Rowe Price (NASDAQ – GS: TROW) helps individuals and institutions around the world achieve their long-term investment goals. As a large global asset management company known for investment excellence, retirement leadership, and independent proprietary research, the firm is built on a culture of integrity that puts client interests first. Clients rely on the award-winning firm for its retirement expertise and active management of equity, fixed income, alternatives, and multi-asset investment capabilities. T. Rowe Price serves millions of clients globally and manages US $1.57 trillion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025. About two-thirds of the assets under management are retirement-related. News and other updates can be found on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and troweprice.com/newsroom.

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SOURCE T. Rowe Price Group