U.S. Energy Corp. Announces Pricing of $5.0 Million Underwritten Public Offering of Common Stock

HOUSTON, Feb. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — U.S. Energy Corp. (Nasdaq: USEG) (the “Company”), today announced the pricing of an underwritten public offering of 984,000 shares of its common stock at a price of $5.10 per share, for gross proceeds to the Company of $5,018,400, before deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses.

In addition, the Company has granted the underwriter a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 147,600 shares of common stock offered in the public offering to cover over-allotments, if any.

Kingswood Capital Markets, division of Benchmark Investments, Inc., is acting as sole bookrunner for the offering.

The offering is expected to close on February 17, 2021, subject to customary closing conditions.

The shares of common stock are being offered by the Company pursuant to a “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-248906) previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 18, 2020 and declared effective by the SEC on September 25, 2020. A prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus relating to the shares of common stock being offered will be filed with the SEC.  The Company will also file a Form 8-K in connection with the underwriting agreement and the closing of the offering. Electronic copies of the prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or by contacting Kingswood Capital Markets, Attention: Syndicate Department, 17 Battery Place, Suite 625, New York, NY 10004, by telephone at (212) 404-7002, or by email at [email protected].

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

About U.S. Energy Corp.

U.S. Energy is an independent energy company focused on the acquisition and development of oil and gas producing properties in the United States. Our business is currently focused on targeting mature, low decline assets with existing infrastructure, which we believe allows us to maximize our return on capital in a cost effective and sustainable manner. More information about U.S. Energy Corp. can be found at www.usnrg.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of, and within the safe harbor provided by the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation those set forth in the Company’s filings with the SEC, not limited to Risk Factors relating to its business contained therein. Additional risks and uncertainties relate to completion of the registered direct offering on the anticipated terms, or at all, market conditions and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the registered direct offering. Thus, actual results could be materially different. Particular uncertainties and risks include: our ability to satisfy the closing conditions of the offering; the closing of the offering; the use of proceeds of the offering and market and other conditions. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.



Contact:

U.S. Energy Corp.
Ryan Smith
Chief Executive Officer
(303) 993-3200
www.usnrg.com

Michigan Progressive Women’s Caucus demands Shirkey step down as Senate Majority Leader

Shirkey comments on U.S. Capitol attack, governor make him unfit

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Michigan Progressive Women’s Caucus on Thursday called for Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, to step down as leader of the Michigan Senate after calling the attack on the U.S. Capitol a “hoax” and making lewd and disturbing comments referring to “spanking” the governor on certain political issues and challenging her to a fistfight. 

The bi-cameral caucus, chaired by Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, D-Livonia, said Shirkey’s half-hearted attempt at walking his initial comments back was quickly exposed to be nothing but a ruse after an exchange between Shirkey and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist was broadcast far and wide.  

In the exchange captured by mic on the Senate rostrum, Shirkey told Gilchrist, “I frankly don’t take back any of the points I was trying to make.” 

Pohutsky and House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski, D-Scio Twp., said the words spoken and actions taken by Shirkey show he is unfit to serve in an elected leadership post.  

“This isn’t the first time Senate Majority Leader Shirkey has feigned an apology, just to repeat the same vile and outrageous comments,” Pohutsky said. “It’s totally unacceptable the majority party leader called the unpatriotic attack on the U.S. Capitol a ‘hoax’. His degrading and disturbing comments about Gov. Whitmer send a horrible message to women across our state. Enough is enough. Shirkey should resign his leadership post in the Senate immediately.” 

“Other state Legislatures have taken steps to strip leadership and committee posts from their habitual bad actors and now it’s time for the same accountability in Michigan,” Lasinski said. “Anyone who watched the shocking videos of the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol should be outraged by Mike Shirkey’s despicable comments. The people of Michigan deserve accountability and that starts with holding accountable so-called leaders who push bogus conspiracy theories, foment violence and coddle extreme para-military groups. Republicans everywhere should demand Shirkey truly apologize or resign, or the voters will hold them accountable.”  

Lasinski has repeatedly called for accountability, including sending a letter to House Speaker Jason Wentworth calling for 18 Michigan House Republicans who signed onto lawsuits and letters fomenting Election Day conspiracy theories and lies to publicly apologize or not be seated in the 101st Legislature.  

The Michigan Progressive Women’s Caucus proudly represents and serves the women and families who call Michigan home, while encouraging greater participation of women in shaping public policy through education and advocacy. 

# # # 



Stephanie Cepak
Michigan Progressive Women's Caucus
[email protected]

Leading Independent Proxy Advisory Firm ISS Recommends Liberty Health Science Shareholders Vote “FOR” Proposed Acquisition by Ayr

PR Newswire

TORONTO, Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Liberty Health Sciences Inc. (CSE: LHS) (OTCQX: LHSIF) www.libertyhealthsciences.com (“Liberty” or the “Company”), a provider of high-quality cannabis, today announced that leading independent proxy advisory firm, Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”), recommends that Liberty shareholders vote “FOR” the shareholder proposal relating to Ayr Strategies Inc.’s (CSE:AYR.A, OTCQX: AYRWF) (“Ayr”) proposed acquisition of Liberty Health Sciences.

In its February 9, 2021 report, ISS stated: Vote “FOR” this proposal based on a review of the terms of the transaction, in particular, the significant premium, the favorable market reaction, and the reasonable strategic rationale.

“We are pleased that ISS shares our belief that the transaction we have proposed is good for Liberty shareholders and supports the Liberty Board’s recommendation to vote “FOR” the proposed acquisition by Ayr,” said George Gremse, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Director of Liberty. “Together, Ayr and Liberty will be a competitive force in Florida.”

On December 22, 2020, Ayr announced the proposed acquisition of Liberty in a stock-for-stock combination. Liberty shareholders will receive 0.03683 Ayr shares for each Liberty share held, equating to 94% premium on the day of the announcement. Since then, the value of the transaction has increased by an additional 62% to C$1.71 per share based on the closing price of Ayr’s shares on February 10, 2021.

The Liberty acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, regulatory approvals, including HSR review, Liberty shareholder approval and court approval of the Plan of Arrangement. A Shareholder meeting and vote is scheduled for February 23, 2021. The Management Information Circular, including Proxy and voting instructions, have been sent to Liberty shareholders and can be found on SEDAR. Shareholders holding approximately 29% of Liberty’s common shares have agreed to support and vote in favor of the proposed transaction.

Shareholders are encouraged to vote their form of proxy or voting instruction form “FOR” the Plan of Arrangement with Ayr Strategies. In order to ensure that votes are counted at the Special Meeting of Securityholders, proxy or voting instructions need to be received prior to the deadline of 10:00 a.m. EST on February 19, 2021.

Please call Carson Proxy with any questions or need for assistance voting at: 800-530-5189 (toll-free) in North America, or 416-751-2066 (collect) outside North America, or by email at: [email protected].

About Liberty Health Sciences Inc.
Liberty is the cannabis provider committed to providing a high-quality cannabis experience based on our genuine care for all cannabis users and a focus on operational excellence from seed to sale. For more information, please visit: www.libertyhealthsciences.com.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, expectations related to the Company’s production capabilities, expectations concerning the receipt of all necessary approvals from the Florida Department of Health, expectations concerning the opening of new dispensaries and the expansion of its greenhouse space, and the Company’s future expansion and growth strategies. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; marketing costs; loss of markets; future legislative and regulatory developments involving medical marijuana; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; the medical marijuana industry in the United States generally, income tax and regulatory matters; the ability of Liberty to implement its business strategies; competition; crop failure; currency and interest rate fluctuations and other risks. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

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SOURCE Liberty Health Sciences Inc.

Oil-Dri Announces Patent in Korea for Novel Mineral-Based Feed Additive Formulation for Modern Animal Protein Production

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oil-Dri Corporation of America (NYSE: ODC), a leading manufacturer of sorbent minerals, doing business as Amlan International, today announced that the Korean Intellectual Property Office has issued Patent 28958.07.0042 entitled “Clay Product and Uses Thereof.” The patent protects the unique and proprietary mineral-based technology of two of Amlan’s natural feed additives, Varium® for poultry and NeoPrime® for swine, which help global producers meet consumer demands for high-quality antibiotic-free animal protein.

The patent provides a methodology for using a natural, mineral-based formulation to mitigate the effects of exposure to pathogenic bacteria and the disease-causing toxins they produce, which damage gut health and function. Amlan’s mineral is specifically selected for its chemical composition to allow for optimal thermal activation, a proprietary process that is tailored to optimize the binding capacity of each product. Varium and NeoPrime are performance feed additives that promote intestinal health and function and can replace the need for in-feed antibiotic growth promoters.

Advancements in feed additive research and formulation are helping to transform animal protein production by providing proven and reliable alternatives to in-feed antibiotics used to promote growth and productivity. Last year, the United States and the EU issued similar patents for the formulation featured in Varium and NeoPrime. China issued a similar patent in 2018.

“Feedback on Varium from poultry integrators has been incredibly positive and recognized by many, including Fox Business Network’s INNOVATION NATION series. Reports show poultry producers who incorporate Varium into their poultry production are able to improve the feed conversion rates and grow healthier birds that are less stressed and have increased the marketability of their products through improved skin, liver and feet quality,” says Dan Jaffee, President and CEO, Oil-Dri Corporation of America. Jaffee now also serves as President and General Manager of Amlan. “The Korean patent is yet another example of Amlan’s commitment to provide the global market with reliable mineral-based feed additives that can be a value-add to antibiotic-free production.”

Mineral-Based Technology

Unlike antibiotics, which are designed to kill bacteria, the patented technology includes a synergistic formula of three ingredients with distinct modes of action: (1) a surface-activated mineral that facilitates chemical binding of pathogenic intestinal bacteria and the disease-causing toxins they produce, (2) an immunomodulator that stimulates an animal’s innate immune system to naturally defend against disease and (3) an energy source for the replenishment of intestinal epithelial cells that is essential for healthy gut function. Upon inclusion of this patented technology in animal feed, current producers have effectively eliminated the use of antibiotics to promote growth and have experienced equivalent or better outcomes.

Company Information

Amlan International offers mineral-based feed additives to poultry and livestock producers. Amlan is the animal health business of Oil-Dri Corporation of America, leading global manufacturer and marketer of sorbent minerals. Oil-Dri leverages over 80 years of expertise in mineral science to selectively mine and process their unique mineral to remove impurities from fluids, including the processing of edible oils and purification of jet fuel. Oil-Dri Corporation of America doing business as “Amlan International” is a publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: ODC). Amlan International sells feed additives across the world. Product availability may vary by country, associated claims do not constitute medical claims and may differ based on government requirements.

Category: Company News

Reagan Culbertson
Media Contact
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/efb9d85f-95c2-446e-a151-498ee10f5785



Live Nation Entertainment Schedules Fourth Quarter And Full Year 2020 Earnings Release And Teleconference

PR Newswire

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: LYV), the world’s leading live entertainment company, will release its fourth quarter and full year 2020 financial results after market hours on Thursday, February 25, 2021. Michael Rapino, Live Nation Entertainment’s President and Chief Executive Officer, will host a teleconference that day at 2:00 p.m. PT (5:00 p.m. ET) to discuss the company’s financial performance, operational outlook, and other forward-looking matters.

A live webcast of the call will be accessible from the “News / Events” section of the company’s website at investors.livenationentertainment.com. Supplemental statistical and financial information to be provided on the call, if any, will be posted to the “Financial Information” section of the website.

About Live Nation Entertainment 
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship.  For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

 

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SOURCE Live Nation Entertainment

Willow Biosciences Announces Increase to Bought Deal Offering from $20.0 Million to $25.0 Million

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS 
RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Willow Biosciences Inc. (“Willow” or the “Company“) (TSX: WLLW; WLLW.WT; OTCQX: CANSF) is pleased to announce that in connection with its previously announced bought deal offering, Willow and the syndicate of underwriters co-led by Eight Capital and BMO Capital Markets (collectively, the “Underwriters“), have agreed to increase the size of the bought deal offering. Willow will now issue 15,152,000 common shares of the Company (the “Common Shares”) at a price of $1.65 per Common Share (the “Offering Price”) for gross proceeds of approximately $25.0 million (the “Offering”).

The Company has also granted the Underwriters an over-allotment option exercisable in whole or in part for a period of 30 days following the closing of the Offering to purchase an additional 15% of the Common Shares issued under the Offering at the Offering Price.

Net proceeds from the Offering are expected to be used to help access new markets for the Company’s cannabinoid portfolio, expedite the commercialization of new cannabinoids, access additional manufacturing capacity, working capital and general corporate purposes.

The Common Shares will be offered in each of the provinces of Canada, other than Québec, pursuant to the Company’s base shelf prospectus dated October 13, 2020 (the “Shelf Prospectus“). The terms of the Offering will be described in a prospectus supplement (the “Supplement“) to be filed with the securities regulators in each of the provinces of Canada, except Québec. The closing of the Offering will be subject to certain customary conditions, including receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Copies of the Supplement, following filing thereof, and the accompanying Shelf Prospectus may be obtained on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and from Eight Capital, 100 Adelaide St W Suite 2900, Toronto, ON, M5H 1S3. The Shelf Prospectus contains, and the Supplement will contain, important detailed information about the Company and the Offering. Prospective investors should read the Supplement and accompanying Shelf Prospectus and the other documents the Company has filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com before making an investment decision.

About Willow Biosciences Inc.

Willow is a Canadian biotechnology company based in Vancouver, British Columbia that produces high purity, plant-derived compounds that provide building blocks for the global pharmaceutical, health and wellness, and consumer packaged goods industries. Willow’s current focus is in the production of cannabinoids for the treatment for pain, anxiety, obesity, brain disorders, among other significant indications. Willow’s science team has a proven track record of developing manufacturing technologies for high purity compounds in pain and cancer treatments. Willow’s manufacturing process creates a consistent, scalable and sustainable product that allows for the discovery and development of new life changing drugs.

For further information, please visit our website at www.willowbio.com or contact:

Trevor Peters
President and Chief Executive Officer

T: (403) 669-4848
E: [email protected]

Troy Talkkari, CFA
Vice President, Corporate Development
T: (403) 618-1117
E: [email protected]
150, 2250 Boundary Road Burnaby, BC V5M 3Z3

READER ADVISORIES

No Offer

This news release is not an offer of the Common Shares for sale in the United States. The Common Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act“) or any U.S. state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an available exemption from the registration requirement of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities, in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may include forward-looking statements including opinions, assumptions, estimates and the Company’s assessment of future plans and operations, and, more particularly, statements concerning: the Company’s ability to close the Offering; the terms of the Offering; the use of proceeds from the Offering; and the business plan of the Company, generally, including cannabinoid research and production. When used in this news release, the words “will,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intent,” “may,” “project,” “should,” and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are founded on the basis of expectations and assumptions made by the Company which include, but are not limited to: the receipt of all approvals and satisfaction of all conditions to the completion of the Offering; and the successful implementation of Willow’s production and commercialization strategy, generally. Forward-looking statements are subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties, and although the Company believes that the expectations represented by such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will be realized. Any number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, risks associated with: the cannabinoid industry in general; the success of the Company’s research and development strategies; infringement on intellectual property; failure to benefit from partnerships or successfully integrate acquisitions; actions and initiatives of federal and provincial governments and changes to government policies and the execution and impact of these actions, initiatives and policies; import/export and research restrictions for cannabinoid-based operations; the size of the medical-use and adult-use cannabinoid market; competition from other industry participants; adverse U.S., Canadian and global economic conditions; adverse global events and public-health crises, including the current COVID-19 pandemic; failure to comply with certain regulations; departure of key management personnel or inability to attract and retain talent; and other factors more fully described from time to time in the reports and filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities. Please refer to the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for additional risk factors relating to Willow, which can be accessed either on Willow’s website at www.willowbio.com or under the Company’s profile on www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.



Oasis Midstream Partners Schedules Fourth Quarter 2020 Conference Call for February 25, 2021

PR Newswire

HOUSTON, Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Oasis Midstream Partners LP (Nasdaq: OMP) (“Oasis Midstream” or the “Partnership”) plans to announce its Fourth Quarter 2020 financial and operational results on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at market close. Additionally, the Company will host a live webcast and conference call on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. Central Time to discuss Fourth Quarter 2020 financial and operational results.

Investors, analysts and other interested parties are invited to listen to the webcast:

Date:

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Time:

11:30 a.m. Central Time

Live Webcast:


https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/1777/39883

Sell-side analysts wishing to ask a question may use the following dial-in:

Dial-in:

888-317-6003

Intl. Dial-in:

412-317-6061

Conference ID:

6806223

Website:


www.oasispetroleum.com

A recording of the conference call will be available beginning at 1:30 p.m. Central Time on the day of the call and will be available until Thursday, March 4, 2021 by dialing:

Replay dial-in:

877-344-7529

Intl. replay:

412-317-0088

Replay access:

10152155

The call will also be available for replay for approximately 30 days at www.oasismidstream.com 

Additionally, Oasis Petroleum and Oasis Midstream Partners plan to participate in the following energy conferences and investor events:

March 1:

Credit Suisse’s 26th Annual Virtual Energy Summit

March 2:

Morgan Stanley’s 2021 Virtual Global Energy & Power Conference

March 3:

Raymond James’ 42nd Annual Virtual Institutional Investors Conference

March 23:

Simmons Energy 21st Annual Energy Conference

About Oasis Midstream Partners LP

Oasis Midstream is a fee-based master limited partnership initially formed by Oasis Petroleum (NASDAQ: OAS) to own, develop, operate and acquire a diversified portfolio of midstream assets in North America that are integral to the oil and natural gas operations of Oasis Petroleum and strategically positioned to capture volumes from other producers. For more information, please visit Oasis Midstream’s website at www.oasismidstream.com.

 

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SOURCE Oasis Midstream Partners LP

Oasis Petroleum Schedules Fourth Quarter 2020 Conference Call for February 25, 2021

PR Newswire

HOUSTON, Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Oasis Petroleum Inc. (Nasdaq: OAS) (“Oasis” or the “Company”) plans to announce its Fourth Quarter 2020 financial and operational results on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at market close. Additionally, the Company will host a live webcast and conference call on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time to discuss Fourth Quarter 2020 financial and operational results.

Investors, analysts and other interested parties are invited to listen to the webcast:

Date:

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Time:

10:00 a.m. Central Time

Live Webcast:


https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/1052/39882

Sell-side analysts wishing to ask a question may use the following dial-in:

Dial-in:

888-317-6003

Intl. Dial-in:

412-317-6061

Conference ID:

1269252

Website:


www.oasispetroleum.com

A recording of the conference call will be available beginning at 12:00 p.m. Central Time on the day of the call and will be available until Thursday, March 4, 2021 by dialing:

Replay dial-in:

877-344-7529

Intl. replay:

412-317-0088

Replay access:

10152152

The call will also be available for replay for approximately 30 days at www.oasispetroleum.com.

Additionally, Oasis Petroleum and Oasis Midstream Partners plan to participate in the following energy conferences and investor events:

March 1:

Credit Suisse’s 26th Annual Virtual Energy Summit

March 2:

Morgan Stanley’s 2021 Virtual Global Energy & Power Conference

March 3:

Raymond James’ 42nd Annual Virtual Institutional Investors Conference

March 23:

Simmons Energy 21st Annual Energy Conference

About Oasis Petroleum Inc.
Oasis Petroleum, Inc. is an independent exploration and production company with quality and sustainable long-lived assets in the Williston and Delaware Basins.  The Company is uniquely positioned with a best-in-class balance sheet and is focused on rigorous capital discipline and generating free cash flow by operating efficiently, safely and responsibly to develop its unconventional onshore oil-rich resources in the continental United States.  For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.oasispetroleum.com

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SOURCE Oasis Petroleum Inc.

Manulife announces Limited Recourse Capital Notes issue

PR Newswire

TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC       SEHK: 945

C$ unless otherwise stated

TORONTO, Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – Manulife Financial Corporation (“MFC“) announced today that it intends to issue $2 billion principal amount of 3.375% Limited Recourse Capital Notes Series 1 (Subordinated Indebtedness) (the “Notes“). MFC intends to file a prospectus supplement to its existing base shelf prospectus in respect of this issue.

The Notes will bear interest at a fixed rate of 3.375% annually, payable semi-annually, for the initial period ending on, but excluding, June 19, 2026. Thereafter, the interest rate on the Notes will reset every five years at a rate equal to the prevailing 5-year Government of Canada Yield plus 2.839%. The Notes mature on June 19, 2081.

In connection with the issuance of the Notes, MFC will issue 2,000,000 Non-Cumulative Fixed Rate Reset Class 1 Shares Series 27 (the “Series 27 Shares“) to be held by Computershare Trust Company of Canada as trustee of a newly formed trust (the “Limited Recourse Trust“). In case of non-payment of interest on or principal of the Notes when due, the recourse of each noteholder will be limited to that holder’s proportionate share of the Limited Recourse Trust’s assets, which will consist of Series 27 Shares except in limited circumstances.

Subject to prior regulatory approval, MFC may redeem the Notes, in whole or in part on not less than 15 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice by MFC, during the period from May 19 to and including June 19, commencing in 2026 and every five years thereafter at a redemption price equal to par, together with accrued and unpaid interest up to, but excluding, the date of redemption.

The offering is being done on a best efforts agency basis by a syndicate co-led by RBC Capital Markets, BMO Capital Markets, CIBC Capital Markets, Scotiabank and TD Securities. The offering is expected to close on February 19, 2021.

MFC intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including investment in subsidiaries. 

Neither the Notes nor the Series 27 Shares have been, nor will be, registered in the United States under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act“), or the securities laws of any state of the United States and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, a “U.S. person” (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) absent registration under the Securities Act or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction where such offer or solicitation would be unlawful.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services group that helps people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we operate as Manulife across our offices in Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. We provide financial advice, insurance, and wealth and asset management solutions for individuals, groups and institutions. At the end of 2020, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 118,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 30 million customers. As of December 31, 2020, we had $1.3 trillion (US$1.0 trillion) in assets under management and administration, and in the previous 12 months we made $31.6 billion in payments to our customers. Our principal operations are in Asia, Canada and the United States where we have served customers for more than 155 years. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong.

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SOURCE Manulife Financial Corporation

Nexa Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2020 Results Including Adjusted EBITDA of US$403 Million

Nexa Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2020 Results Including Adjusted EBITDA of US$403 Million

LUXEMBOURG–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Nexa Resources S.A. (“Nexa Resources” or “Nexa” or the “Company”) (NYSE:NEXA) (TSX:NEXA)has published its 4Q20 and 2020 Results.

CEO Message – Tito Martins

“Nexa delivered solid and sustainable operational results, overcoming the challenges and restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 global outbreak.

We believe that the Nexa Way program, which aims to structurally improve our business model and transform our culture, has assisted us in adeptly navigating this unprecedented scenario. We would not have been able to achieve these results without our team and their enthusiasm to transform.

Following the end of government-mandated temporary suspension of our Peruvian mines and limited smelters production, we safely resumed our activities during the second semester and we are currently running at normal levels. In Brazil, we operated our mines at higher throughput that allowed Nexa to partially compensate the Peruvian reduced volumes.

Our main development project, Aripuanã, is progressing according to the updated project schedule and we are on track to begin production in early 2022.

Moving forward, we remain committed to our capital allocation discipline. With a unique portfolio of projects, we continue to build a path to grow steadily in zinc and copper in the Americas in the long-term.

In addition, we have strengthened our inclusion and plurality program and we are establishing some metrics to enhance the disclosures of our social and environmental programs.

Our balance sheet remains solid and we have proactively adopted measures to continue to strengthen our business and protect our people, contractors and host communities. We are confident that we will be able to continue to create value for all our stakeholders by maximizing the returns of our operations and growth projects, building the mining of the future.”

4Q20 Highlights | Operational and Financial:

  • Consolidated net revenue reached US$635 million in the fourth quarter compared with US$586 million a year ago mainly driven by higher zinc and copper prices.
  • Zinc production of 92kt in the quarter was 11% higher than in 4Q19, primarily driven by higher production in Cerro Lindo due to better zinc head grade and in Vazante, which was negatively impacted in 4Q19 by the temporary reduction in processing capacity in response to the trunnion repair. Compared to 3Q20, zinc production increased by 12%.
  • In 4Q20, metal sales were 162kt, relatively flat year-over-year and 2% higher from 3Q20, mainly driven by the continued demand recovery in our home markets.
  • Adjusted EBITDA was US$167 million in 4Q20 compared with US$65 million in 4Q19 and US$152 million in 3Q20.
  • Mining cash cost in 4Q20 was US$0.33/lb compared with US$0.41/lb in 4Q19 mainly driven by higher by-products credits and lower operating costs. Compared to 3Q20, mining cash cost decreased by 1%.
  • In 4Q20, smelting cash cost was US$0.92/lb compared with US$0.89/lb in 4Q19 mainly driven by higher operating costs and LME prices, partially offset by higher TCs and the Brazilian real depreciation. Compared to 3Q20, smelting cash cost increased by 13%.
  • Incremental costs related to COVID-19 amounted to US$5.6 million in 4Q20, which were partially offset by other costs savings.
  • Nexa also recognized a non-cash US$10 million pre-tax impairment loss in 4Q20 primarily related to the suspension of Ambrosia pit (Morro Agudo mine), which was reaching the end of its life of mine.
  • Net income in 4Q20 totaled US$53 million or US$0.38 earnings per share, including the impairment loss effect.

2020 Highlights:

  • In 2020, consolidated net revenue totaled US$1,951 million compared to US$2,333 million a year ago explained by lower average metal prices and lower volumes.
  • Zinc production in 2020 was 313kt, down 13% from 2019 mainly driven by the decrease in processed ore volumes in our Peruvian mines, which were affected by the government-mandated temporary shutdown in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  • Metal sales volume of 585kt in 2020 was 6% lower versus 2019 driven by the decrease in production in the Cajamarquilla and Juiz de Fora smelters, which were partially offset by Três Marias’ solid performance.
  • Adjusted EBITDA in 2020 was US$403 million compared with US$349 million in 2019, positively affected by the decrease in costs and exploration and project evaluation expenses, and the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the U.S. dollar.
  • Net debt to Adjusted EBITDA for the last twelve months stood at 2.29x compared to 3.23x at the end of September, reflecting the improvement in the results of our operations and cash generation.
  • In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, we proactively managed our liquidity position by assuming additional debt during 1H20. We added about US$300 million to our cash balance through export credit notes in March and April. In June, we issued a 7-year bond of US$500 million and the net proceeds were fully used to refinance certain existing financial indebtedness.
  • Liquidity remains strong. Total cash amounted to US$1,121 million at December 31, 2020 and our current available liquidity is US$1,421 million, including the revolving credit facility.

Corporate highlights

  • Nexa declared in February 2020 and paid in March 2020 a cash dividend to shareholders of approximately US$50 million.
  • We continue to focus on maximizing the efficacy of our governance practices, and the mandate of the sustainability committee of our Board of Directors (the “Board”) was updated to broaden capital projects oversight. The committee assists and advises the Company’s Board in supporting safe and sustainable business practices in the conduct of the Company’s activities, as well as in reviewing technical, economic and social matters with respect to the Company’s projects.
  • In 2020, Mr. Gianfranco Castagnola was elected as the newest member of Nexa’s Board and Mr. Jaime Ardila was appointed as the new Chairman of the Board.
  • The extraordinary general meeting of the Company’s shareholders approved the cancellation of the 881,902 common shares held in treasury, repurchased under the Nexa repurchase program concluded in November 2019.
  • On February 11, 2021, Nexa’s Board approved a cash dividend distribution to Nexa’s shareholders of US$0.264273 per common share or approximately US$35 million to be paid on March 26, 2021.

Operational efficiency initiatives program | Nexa Way

  • The Nexa Way program generated an estimated annualized positive impact to EBITDA of US$98 million in 2020, based on the initiatives implemented in 2019. We continue to target an improvement of at least US$120 million in annualized EBITDA from initiatives by the end of 2021.
  • In light of COVID-19, new Nexa Way initiatives have emerged and during 2H20 some of these initiatives have been implemented at a cost included in our selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) of US$12 million.
  • We expect additional initiatives to be implemented in 1H21 at an estimated cost of US$3 to 13 million, temporarily increasing SG&A. The new initiatives should generate a potential additional EBITDA contribution of approximately US$60 million by the end of 2021.
  • Our ability to achieve this target through 2021 depends on future metal prices, production and demand recovery, among other factors.

Guidance:

  • Mining production guidance for 2020 was achieved. We produced 313kt of zinc in concentrate, 28kt of copper in concentrate and 38kt of lead in concentrate in the year. Silver production exceeded guidance totaling 6,826koz.
  • Metal sales of 585kt exceeded 2020 guidance.
  • Mining cash cost of US$0.39/lb in 2020 was 14% lower than 2020 guidance, positively affected by higher by-product credits and cost reduction initiatives from the Nexa Way program.
  • Smelting cash cost of US$0.81/lb in 2020 was 4% above 2020 guidance mainly driven by higher zinc prices (2020 zinc price estimates of US$0.99/lb versus 2020 actual LME average zinc price of US$1.16/lb).
  • In 2020, CAPEX before tax credits amounted to US$354 million compared with US$350 million guidance. We have accrued tax credits of US$18 million with respect to our ongoing projects. Consequently, CAPEX totaled US$336 million in 2020. We also continued to invest in our future with an additional US$38 million of exploration and US$15 million project evaluation investments in our greenfield and brownfield projects.
  • On January 19, 2021 Nexa published its three-year period 2021-2023 operational guidance. The Company also provided cash cost, capital expenditures and other operating expenses guidance for 2021. Refer to our “Nexa | Guidance 2021-2023” section for further details.

Projects:

  • In response to our commitment to capital discipline to navigate this uncertain scenario, Nexa has maintained its revised project portfolio and timeline, subject to additional COVID-19 related-measures.
  • The Vazante mine-deepening brownfield project progressed as planned and the investment amounted to US$13 million in 2020. In 2021, we plan to complete the excavation of phase 2 of the EB-140. The EB-140 is the main stage of the mine deepening project and its final assembly is estimated to be concluded by 2022.
  • Exploration activities at the Bonsucesso project were resumed as planned. Engineering studies (FEL3) are resuming in 1Q21. Bonsucesso is expected to extend the life of mine of Morro Agudo and to use the existing infrastructure and mine facilities of the complex, reinforcing the integration of our mines and smelters in Brazil.
  • Magistral engineering studies (FEL3) continue to progress. In 2021, we expect to advance further detailed engineering and optimization opportunities to mitigate the risk of project execution, before consideration of project approval.
  • Exploration activities at the Hilarión project restarted and in 4Q20 we executed 4,603 meters of exploratory drilling.
  • The pre-feasibility studies at Shalipayco and Pukaqaqa remain on hold. Exploration activities at Florida Canyon are also on hold.
  • The Jarosite conversion project for Cajamarquilla should be reassessed in 2021.

Aripuanã

  • Construction works continue to advance and 70% of physical progress was achieved by the end of 4Q20. We are on track to conclude mechanical completion in 4Q21 and to start production in early 2022.
  • In 2020, we invested US$187 million, with cumulative incurred CAPEX of US$312 million since the beginning of the construction. Estimated CAPEX for 2021 is US$232 million.
  • The pre-operational equipment is mobilized and stopes are under development phase for Arex and Link mines. Mining activities are starting in February. We have 186 employees from mine operations actively working on mine development.
  • The qualification program for future mining operators has continued to progress and the second class with 104 students will graduate in March 2021.
  • Refer to our “Aripuanã project” section for further details.

For full details, please visit our Investor Relations webpage at:

http://ir.nexaresources.com

E-mail: [email protected]

About Nexa Resources

Nexa is a large-scale, low-cost integrated zinc producer with over 60 years of experience developing and operating mining and smelting assets in Latin America. Nexa currently owns and operates five long-life underground mines – three located in the Central Andes of Peru and two located in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil – and is developing the Aripuanã Project as its sixth underground mine in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Nexa was among the top five producers of mined zinc globally in 2020 and also one of the top five metallic zinc producers worldwide in 2020, according to Wood Mackenzie.

Nexa Resources – Investor Relations

Roberta Varella

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Peru Luxembourg Brazil South America Canada North America Europe

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Mining/Minerals Natural Resources

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